Design, Build & Install
2023 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2021 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2020 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2020 Sunshine Coast Renovated Kitchen of the Year
2019 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2019 Sunshine Coast Kitchen Design
2019 Queensland Kitchen of the Year
As the new year unfolds, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home with the latest design ideas.
With 2025 kicking off, we’re embracing the warmth of Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Mocha Mousse, a rich and inviting neutral that is perfect for layering throughout your home.
Whether it’s walls, textiles, or accents, this hue blends beautifully with other trending styles, from earthy textures to contemporary finishes.
In this edition, we also include a seven-page pool feature brimming with ideas for transforming your outdoor space into an oasis. Turn to page 18.
Plus, we have our regular style and finishing touches sections to ensure you’ll find inspiration for your next project.
Until next month, happy renovating!
What’s trending
POOLS & OUTDOORS Choosing the right lights
Refurbishing your pool
Planning for a patio
Products, looks and styles
BetterPATIOS
COLOUR CONNECTION
As we step into 2025, the world of interior design is embracing a palette inspired by our surroundings, cultural shifts and a collective longing for comfort and stability.
COLOURS OF AUSTRALIA
Haymes Paint’s 18th annual Colour Library draws from the timeless beauty of Australia’s landscapes. Their Colours of Australia palette features 40 hues that reflect the natural environment, from the soft warmth of Dusted Tan inspired by South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula to the moody Awe Inspired of New South Wales’ Blue Mountains and the soft Pale Cornflour tones reminiscent of Brisbane. The palette also includes 10 of Haymes Paint’s most popular whites, reinforcing the colour’s enduring appeal. Rachel Lacy, Haymes Paint colour lead, explains the philosophy behind the collection: “The Colours of Australia palette is an enduring rather than purely trend-driven collection, with the colours remaining as steadfast as the land. It is our homage to the rich and diverse landscapes of Australia.”
Designed to encourage creativity, the palette invites Australians to embrace combinations that feel both familiar and adventurous. “Each colour has been meticulously chosen to work together cohesively. There are no wrong answers with this palette and we want people to feel empowered to embrace colours that are familiar to them through our natural landscape,” Rachel adds. Visit haymespaint.com.au
THE GLOBAL MOOD
For 2025, the Pantone Color Institute has chosen PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse as its Colour of the Year. This rich, warm brown hue speaks to our desire for comfort, indulgence and a grounded sense of luxury.
Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, describes the shade’s appeal as sophisticated.
“Underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence. Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, Mocha Mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe.”
Haymes Paint’s Colours of Australia: Modesty White ceiling with Pale Cornflower walls
STYLE & PRIVACY
STILL, RECOLLECT, EMERGE
Dulux’s 2025 Colour Forecast boasts three distinct palettes: Still, Recollect and Emerge. Each is designed to offer a balance of calm, nostalgia and vibrancy.
Still: With warm greys, yellow-based neutrals and serene blues, this palette creates a calming environment, encouraging us to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Recollect: A moodier selection featuring rich burgundies, deep olives and nostalgic greens like Dulux Plum Sauce and Olive Blend, this palette evokes comfort and sophistication.
Emerge: Soft and mid-tone greens, mauves and uplifting reds bring an expressive energy to this vibrant palette. “Dulux Emerge embodies individuality, inclusivity, collaboration and empathy, reflecting an expressive and eclectic style that celebrates connection,” says Dulux colour forecaster Andrea Lucena-Orr.
Together, these palettes highlight the growing importance of warm, earthy undertones and their ability to nurture and uplift. Visit dulux.com.au
HOW TO USE NEW COLOURS IN YOUR HOME
• Start small: Introduce trending colours with accessories like cushions, rugs and artwork. These elements are easy to update and instantly refresh your space.
• Accent walls: Experiment with bold hues on a single wall for impact without overwhelming.
• Layer tones: Combine shades from the same family, such as a colour inspired by Pantone’s Mocha Mousse with softer neutrals or Dulux’s green tones, for a cohesive look.
• Balance boldness: Use vibrant colours sparingly, pairing them with calming neutrals or whites to create a balanced aesthetic.
• Outdoor inspiration: Extend interior colour schemes outdoors by matching paints or accents to natural surroundings, like Haymes’ Light Stone or Dusted Tan.
• Test first: Always test paint swatches in different lighting to see how the colour changes throughout the day.
Dulux Colour Forecast 2025 – Still palette
A NOD TO MID-CENTURY MODERN
Mid-century modern design is making a strong comeback, blending timeless elegance with functional simplicity. Characterised by clean lines, organic shapes and natural materials such as timber and stone, this style creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Sleek cabinetry and subtle curves echo the charm of the 1950s and ‘60s while fitting seamlessly into contemporary spaces.
The kitchen continues to evolve as the heart of the home and 2025 is shaping up to be a year where style meets practicality.
SPLASH OF COLOUR
Coloured joinery is taking centre stage in 2025, pushing all-white kitchens aside in favour of richer, more vibrant palettes. Shades of forest green, navy and deep burgundy are proving popular for those looking to make a statement, while softer tones like sage green and dusty blue offer a more subtle sophistication. Warm neutrals also remain in favour, with matte and satin finishes bringing an extra layer of elegance.
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EXTRA SPACE
The kitchen is no longer just a place to prepare meals – it has become a
for families and friends to gather. Extended benches are leading this
offering versatile spaces for cooking, dining and entertaining. Whether designed as oversized islands with built-in seating or as
for food prep and serving, these features make
meals.
THINK SMARTER
Technology is becoming a seamless part of modern kitchens. Touchless taps, voice-activated lighting and built-in charging stations are now standard inclusions. Wifi-enabled appliances, such as ovens that can be preheated remotely and fridges that monitor goods, are helping homeowners save time and energy.
You’re invited to celebrate
COOL STATEMENT
Ceiling fans can be about so much more than simply keeping the air moving. Beyond their practical function, fans are now stylish design features that can elevate a space, indoors or out. Whether you’re updating your home’s interior or creating a welcoming alfresco area, the right fan can add style, comfort and efficiency.
PERFECT FOR OUTDOOR LIVING
Outdoor entertaining spaces are becoming an essential part of Australian homes and ceiling fans are a key element for year-round comfort. With summers getting warmer, fans can keep the air circulating in covered patios, verandahs and outdoor kitchens. Look for models speci fi cally designed for outdoor use, as these are made to withstand moisture and temperature changes. Sleek, weatherproof fi nishes in white or matte black seamlessly blend with most outdoor settings, while timber-look blades can bring a relaxed, coastal feel.
STYLE MEETS FUNCTION
Gone are the days of clunky, outdated ceiling fans. Today’s designs combine performance with aesthetics to suit a variety of interiors. Minimalist fans in monochromatic tones are trending for contemporary homes, while classic timber or brass fi nishes are perfect for more traditional spaces. For open-plan areas, oversized fans with longer blades not only make a statement but are also practical for circulating air across larger rooms.
LIGHTING AND FAN COMBOS
Ceiling fans with built-in lighting are a brilliant option for multipurpose spaces. Integrated LED lighting offers energy ef fi ciency and a clean, modern look, eliminating the need for multiple ceiling fi xtures. Some designs feature dimmable lights, ideal for adjusting the mood in living or bedroom spaces, while others include
smart controls for added convenience.
ENERGY-EFFICIENT COMFORT
Fans are not only cost-effective to run but can also help reduce energy bills. In summer, they create a cooling breeze that can make a room feel up to fi ve degrees cooler, allowing you to rely less on air-conditioning. In winter, many fans come with a reverse setting to push warm air back down from the ceiling, helping to keep heating costs in check.
The Velocity 64” DC ceiling fan in washed oak has a distinct coastal vibe. It’s available from Discount Lighting and Fans, Warana.
A FAN FOR EVERY SPACE
Whether it’s a cosy bedroom, an outdoor entertaining area or a large living room, there’s a fan to suit every space. Like with air-conditioning, compact fans work well in smaller rooms, while larger models provide better airflow in open-plan areas. For an extra touch of luxury, consider smart ceiling fans that can be controlled via remote or an app, offering easy adjustments for speed, light and direction.
DID YOU KNOW?
According to Canstar Blue, an indoor ceiling fan costs around 0.17c to 1.9c per hour to run, or between $1.22 and $13.68 over summer (90 days) if used eight hours per day. Costs depend on speed settings, how often it’s used and the usage rate you pay for electricity.
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Stockists
LIVING LUXE
Elevate your living space with timeless elegance through rich textures and statement pieces.
1. Vintage meets luxury with the Ramba home theatre lounge from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre . The double-chaise confi guration is complete with the Pro fi le Jumbo in Willow fabric upholstery and scatter cushions. 2. With a blend of elegance and functionality, and standing 49 centimetres tall with a glass base, the green Julina table lamp is a statement piece. It’s from Discount Lighting and Furniture , Warana. 3. Featuring delicate wildflowers and soft green foliage, the Aussie Florals Blue II canvas art print will bring a serene and natural elegance to your living space. It’s from Urban Road . 4. The Barney cushion from Kas Australia features mixed embroidery on a rich, chunky cotton slub. It is the ideal blend of sophistication and whimsy. 5. The white Pod vase is a beautifully sculpted piece that combines contemporary style with classic elegance. Crafted from high-quality stoneware ceramic, it’s from Coastal Drift Home , Caloundra. 6. Dulux’s Equatorial Forest hue is a muted Australiana shade, great for adding a touch of colour to your living room. Visit dulux.com.au for stockists.
AIR CONDITIONING
HOUSING GIVEN $50M BOOST
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has thrown its support behind the establishment of the $50 million Future of Housing Construction Centre of Excellence.
Located in Melbourne, the centre aims to equip the workforce with skills for modern construction methods, including prefabrication, modular building and 3D printing, while addressing barriers in regulatory and training systems.
HIA chief executive of industry and policy, Simon Croft,
highlighted the centre’s potential to streamline innovative construction practices, advance the delivery of 1.2 million homes over five years and ensure new workers are trained to lead the sector into the future.
“The Housing Industry Association welcomes the establishment of the Future of Housing Construction Centre of Excellence, which will provide an important platform for industry to learn and develop the skills that will shape the construction of our
future homes,” Mr Croft said.
“This $50 million investment to establish this latest Centre of Excellence in Melbourne focussing on Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), will play a vital role in equipping the construction workforce with the skills needed for the future.
“The centre will facilitate new and emerging forms of construction, including prefab, modular and even 3D printing and other innovations across the sector, and further advance the
goal to build 1.2 million homes within five years.
“HIA previously undertook leading research to identify barriers that are holding up greater uptake of prefabrication and modular construction. One of the key matters identified was that our regulatory and training systems had been developed with a traditional stick-by-stick on-site construction in mind.
“This initiative… can further unlock those barriers by enabling our training systems to better recognise these emerging forms of construction and provide the tools to upskill the industry to streamline the adoption of MMC into more projects.”
Mr Croft said the centre could ensure advancements were embedded in the training of new workers, enabling them to lead the way in modern construction practices.
“This initiative will ensure the skills of the construction workforce continue to evolve, supporting a stronger, more innovative housing sector,” he added.
C U S T O M M A D E
PROD
CUSTOM MADE | QUALITY PRODUCTS | UNBEATABLE
AWARDS NOW OPEN
Master Builders has officially kicked off its 2025 Housing & Construction Awards program, with two additional categories reflecting its commitment to workplace safety and advocacy on futureproofing the industry and boosting productivity.
The Prefabricated and Modular Housing Award is a new category, established in recognition of those builders finding innovative ways to be more productive and streamline building practices using modern methods of construction.
Making a comeback in 2025 is the Excellence in Workplace Health & Safety Award, now open to both residential and commercial builders. The return of this award honours those dedicated to safety as priority one on site.
The launch follows a historic 2024, which wrapped up with Queensland builders taking out 13 gongs at the Master Builders Australia National Excellence in
Building and Construction Awards – the highest number in the country.
“Celebrating its 39th year, the awards continue to recognise excellence across Queensland’s building and construction industry,” Master Builders deputy CEO and awards ambassador Sue-Ann Fresneda said.
“From emerging small businesses to established industry leaders, and from apprentices to seasoned trade contractors, there’s a category for everyone.
“From renovations to new builds, specialist trades, and commercial, retail, industrial and community construction projects, we recognise and honour the hard work and diverse talent that makes our industry so great.”
Entries for the 2025 Master Builders Queensland Housing & Construction Awards are now open. The Sunshine Coast admission cut off date is April 4.
Visit mbqld.com.au/whats-on/ housing-and-construction-awards
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Aswimming pool can add beauty, value and functionality to your home. With proper design, installation and maintenance, a swimming pool can be a great investment for your property and a wonderful addition to your lifestyle.
One important feature to consider when designing your swimming pool is the lighting. To be able to enjoy the view of your swimming pool at any time of the day, you should have the optimal lighting required to spark up the space.
Aside from the beautiful visual appeal it brings to your home, it also ensures safety for your family. When choosing the best lighting for your swimming pool, there are several important factors to consider.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right lighting.
1. Type of lighting: People now have access to a wide range of lighting alternatives because of advancements in lighting technology. Different forms of
illumination are typically taken into account for energy ef fi ciency. You can choose between LED, halogen, or fi bre optic lighting. LED lights are the most popular as they are energy-ef fi cient, long-lasting and they come in a variety of colours. Halogen lights are bright and provide excellent illumination. Fibre optic lighting is popular for creating a unique, colourful effect. When choosing the best pool lighting components, affordability and energy efficiency must always come first.
2. Brightness: The brightness of the lighting depends on the size of your pool and the desired effect. If you have a large pool, you may need brighter lighting to illuminate the entire area. Some pool lights come with adjustable brightness settings, which can be helpful if you want to create a speci fi c ambience or mood in your pool area. The brightness of your pool lighting should be bright enough to see
the pool clearly at night but not so bright that it causes glare or discomfort.
3. Light colour: This is one factor that people tend to overlook. Deciding on the colour of the lighting can be daunting as there are many varieties to pick from. LED lights come in a variety of colours, and you can even choose ones that change colour for a fun and dynamic effect. You can choose from a variety of colours for your pool lights, such as white, blue, green, or even multi-coloured lights. The colour you choose will depend on the mood and ambience you want to create in your pool area. When selecting your light colour, select a colour that complements the overall design and aesthetic of your pool area.
4. Cost and maintenance: Set a budget for your pool lighting project and compare the costs of different lighting options. You can opt for energy-ef fi cient
ARE YOU READY TO START BUILDING YOUR DREAM POOL?
lighting options to save money on your energy bills in the long run. LED lights may be more expensive initially, but they are more energy-ef fi cient and have a longer lifespan, which can save you money in the long run. Of course, it’s important to remember to factor in the cost of installation and ongoing maintenance.
5. Installation: Finally, it is important to consider the installation process for the lights. If you’re planning to install the lights yourself, look for varieties that come with easy instructions and are also easy to install. Make sure the lighting you choose is compatible with your pool’s installation and electrical systems. If you’re unsure about installation, consider hiring a professional. When hiring a professional installer, ask to see recommendations and testimonials and ensure that they are experienced in installing pool lights.
• Creative all-inclusive 3D designs.
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• Contact us today for a free onsite design consultation for your project.
SMART CLEANING
We’ve all heard about the benefits of robot pool cleaners, but how much do you really know? Here, the expert team from Clark Rubber breaks it down.
Anyone who owns a swimming pool knows it is a great investment. It not only adds value to your home but also enriches your life with exercise, relaxation and fun.
However, like any worthwhile investment, a pool must be maintained, which could mean hours of manual cleaning, which
some pool owners may not have time for these days.
Although there are plenty of automatic pool cleaners that can make pool ownership simpler and easier, robotic pool cleaners are changing the game. These popular pool cleaners are intelligent, thorough and self-sufficient. Being electric and using
advanced cleaning and brushing technology, robotic pool cleaners take all the hassle out of pool cleaning. It’s the fastest, easiest and most efficient way to scrub and filter your pool. Plus, it’s a great way to free yourself up and simply enjoy your pool while the robot does all the work for you.
So, what do we love about robotic pool cleaners?
1. SUPERIOR CLEANING TECHNOLOGY
Nothing compares to the cuttingedge cleaning technology of robotic pool cleaners. Where traditional suction cleaners use a hose and pump suction to generate movement, robotic cleaners use electric motors and computer technology to achieve a superior clean. Providing maximum coverage of your pool, they’re designed for climbing walls and steps, navigating across floors and getting into hard-toreach corners by themselves. At the same time, powerful rotating scrubbing brushes lift and suck up all types of dirt and debris, keeping
your walls, floors and waterlines sparkling clean.
2. EASY TO USE
Anyone can use a robotic pool cleaner. Part of the attraction of robotic cleaners is that they’re so easy to use and set up, which is great for people who are short of valuable time. Powered safely by low-voltage electricity, they work independently of the pool filtration system, which is good news for pool pumps struggling under the increased load from a suction cleaner.
3. ADVANCED FILTRATION
Unlike traditional suction cleaners, robotic pool cleaners filter your water while they’re running, independently of the pool’s main pump and filtration system. Robot pool cleaners have an on-board filtration system that traps leaves and debris. This all gets stored in the filter basket or bag within the robotic unit itself, which helps to stop debris clogging your pool’s own filtration system. Using an intelligent cleaning system, robotic pool cleaners remove a
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wide range of debris and contaminants,
and
4. SMART NAVIGATION
Most traditional automatic suction pool cleaners move randomly around pools, so there is a chance they may miss spots and get stuck in corners or on obstacles. This means that they may also require manual intervention to free them or move them to a spot they have missed. However, robotic cleaners have a smart navigation system, they’re self-propelled and programmed to cover the whole pool inch by inch – learning your pool layout and choosing an optimal cleaning path. You can also control some robotic cleaners remotely with an app on your smartphone. This enables you to set a regular cleaning schedule for your cleaner, choose from a range of cleaning modes, and check up on its cleaning status. You can even steer them yourself to clean specific areas of the pool.
5.
ENERGY EFFICIENT
As we look towards a more sustainable future, today’s robotic
pool cleaners are leading the way. Testing and research show robotic pool cleaners use a lower amount of energy compared to other types of automatic pool cleaners, such as suction cleaners. Robotic pool cleaners are self-sustainable and don’t rely on your pool’s filtration pump to generate power. This leaves your pool pump free to run at optimal low speeds for greater energy efficiency.
6. SAVES TIME AND MONEY
While the upfront cost of a robotic pool cleaner may be higher than a traditional suction cleaner, it basically pays for itself, saving hundreds of dollars per year in operating costs and hours of maintenance.
7.
LOW MAINTENANCE
Today’s generation of robotic cleaners are extremely reliable and built to last. After each cleaning cycle, you only need to remove the cleaner from the pool to clean out its on-board filter with a quick empty-and hose-down, which can be done easily in minutes.
REFRESH YOUR POOL
A tired, dated pool can bring down the overall appeal of your outdoor space, but a renovation can transform it into a stunning centrepiece. With the right upgrades, even the oldest pool can look fresh, modern and inviting.
RESURFACE FOR A FRESH START
ENHANCE WITH TECHNOLOGY
Incorporating smart technology can make your pool more functional and energy efficient. Consider upgrading to a variable-speed pump, installing LED lighting, or adding an automated cleaning system. For the ultimate convenience, connect your pool’s operations to a smart home system, allowing you to control temperature, lighting and filtration with the touch of a button.
The quickest way to breathe new life into an old pool is by resurfacing it. Cracks, stains, or outdated finishes can be replaced with modern materials like pebblecrete, tiles, or quartz to give the pool a sleek and polished appearance. A fresh surface not only improves aesthetics but also addresses wear and tear that could impact the pool’s longevity.
EXPERT TILE DESIGN & INSTALLATION
We have a fantastic range of pool mosaics, pool coping pavers/tiles and pool surrounds . We have a range to suit any style pool and home.
Speak to our friendly team about a free quote for supply & installation of your new tiles.
STYLE CONSIDERATIONS
Consider your patio an extension of your home’s interior and design it accordingly. Choose furnishings that are both practical and inviting and use cushions or throws to bring in seasonal colours or trendy patterns for a refreshed look.
PEN TO PAPER
Before diving into detailed plans, sketch out a basic layout of your ideal patio. Think about the available space and how the area will be used. Will it include a full outdoor kitchen for entertaining, or do you prefer a simpler design?
PLANNING FOR A PATIO
Designing a new patio or outdoor area is a fantastic way to enhance your poolside space. To get started, think about the location, design and how you intend to use it. Would you prefer a covered area, or a shade sail to keep the space cool? Discuss these options with your builder to create a functional and stylish outdoor retreat.
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
While patios are often attached to the home, don’t limit yourself to traditional layouts. Consider creating a retreat, such as a Balineseinspired hut or a stylish pool house. TIP: Your builder can assist with navigating council regulations to ensure a smooth planning process.
If you answered YES to these questions, keep reading.
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HOME BUILDING TO INCREASE MODESTLY
The pace of home building is expected to pick up over the next 12 months though fewer interest rate cuts than thought earlier may moderate the recovery.
The run of lacklustre new housing starts continued in late 2024, with dwelling approvals falling 3.6 per cent in November to 14,998. While a muted monthly result, building approvals as tracked by the Australian Bureau of Statistics have been gradually trending higher.
Oxford Economics Australia
head of property and building forecasting Timothy Hibbert expected around 170,000 dwellings to be built over the 2024 calendar year, up four per cent on 2023. “Signs are that we will see further modest improvement in 2025, with attached dwellings providing increased support,” Mr Hibbert wrote in a note. He wasn’t expecting a boom over the next 12 months, with utility connection bottlenecks and trade labour shortages imposing
speed limits on the rebound.
“We don’t expect a more meaningful double-digit recovery in total approvals until 2026, when mortgage rate cuts aid the release of pent-up housing demand, while traction on the supply policy front will become increasingly evident,” Mr Hibbert said.
Independent economist Saul Eslake said there was tentative evidence home building had passed its weakest point but the pace of approvals was still slow.
“You would need to see quite a bit of month-by-month improvements to be at all confident that we’re getting to the sort of levels of new starts that are consistent with the government’s ambitious targets,” he told AAP.
A national goal of 1.2 million new homes over five years has been set with the intent of boosting supply and improving housing affordability.
But with labour shortages and other challenges plaguing the industry, the target is at risk of falling short. High borrowing costs have been weighing on the
construction sector and interest rate cuts should offer some reprieve when they arrive, most likely in the first half of the year.
Mr Eslake was still tipping the first cut in February but was unsure how many more would follow given the possibility of higher global inflation under a Trump administration.
With only two or three 25 basis point cuts looking likely, Mr Eslake said any influence on home building would be muted.
Other drags on new housing construction included competition for workers with major infrastructure projects.
A further handbrake to the supply of new dwellings was insolvency rates, with builders going broke in big numbers after finding themselves caught between high construction costs and fixed customer contracts.
The economist said planning, zoning laws and regulations administered by state and local councils were another issue, particularly for high-rise apartments in inner city and older suburbs.
The Molton ceramic stool evokes a calming ambience and has a down-toearth feel to it. It’s made from liquefied layers of clay and russet tones and is available from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre
The Nardi green chair is made from recyclable resin and is suitable for inside and outside use. It’s from Sitting Around , Warana.
Kas A
The Dahlia Arch wall art features a curated selection of blooms. The earthy tones and intricate details of the flowers create a must-have piece. It’s from Domayne
Made from textured dolomite, featuring on-trend striped design in neutral tones, the Sandy candle holder looks great when paired with the matching stripe vase. Available from Pillow Talk
A SPLASH OF STRIPES
Whether it’s on cushions or in artwork, striped decor can bring a contemporary look to your home.
The Meltami armchair boasts a classic mid-century appeal with saturated stain solid oak framing and ladder-pleated stitching. It’s made from an easy-care PU fabric and available from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre
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