YO U R AT E D U S Nº 1
VISUAL FEAST Elegant tables with no reservations
THE
Kitchen FILES
It’s pretty HOT in here!
196
+
pages of
ALL-AUSTRALIAN BEAUTIES Life-enhancing home designs
CHIC kitchens you’ll be HAPPY to spend TIME in
Lantern House, Victoria, by Timmins+Whyte Architects. Photography by Peter Bennetts. COLORBOND and the BlueScope brand mark are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. 2020 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.
Beautiful simplicity. Tested in some of Australia’s harshest conditions, durable COLORBOND steel Matt diffuses light to create a subtle, textured and contemporary aesthetic. COLORBOND steel in Surfmist Matt offers a stylish contrast to softer tones and complements darker hues for added design flexibility and an elegantly understated appearance. Visit COLORBOND.COM/MATT or call 1800 702 764
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The kitchen files
MARCH Cover stories
22 196+ pages of all-Australian beauties Life-enhancing home designs 35 Visual feast: Elegant tables with no reservations 151 The kitchen files: it’s pretty hot in here! Chic kitchens you’ll be happy to spend time in
People
Photograph by Anson Smart.
22 Branching Out A tailor-made home for an architect’s parents.
59 Hooked On Classics Meet lifelong hot-rod enthusiast and automotive upholsterer, Kira Jurado. 194 The Creative Type Sydney interior designer Marylou Sobel.
Decorating
35 Visual Feast Setting the mood for your table can help turn a meal into a special occasion. 49 Ask An Expert Kitchen updates. 55 9 By Design Here’s cheers to gorgeous glassware.
Houses
68 Pump Up The Glam Drawing attention to the details delivered a stylish result for the owners of this updated 1920s home in Sydney. 80 Breathe Easy This Queenslander was thoughtfully redesigned with the needs of its young family firmly in mind. 88 Worldly Desires For his own home in Melbourne, design writer Stephen Crafti took cues from iconic architecture in Europe and beyond.
On our cover This chic farmhousestyle kitchen is just one of the amazing projects showcased in this issue’s kitchen special. Photograph by Armelle Habib. See page 151 for more.
128 Tree Of Life A home that more than makes the most of its steep site – and delivers on luxury too.
Kitchen special
Gardens
For our readers
140 Sense Of Place Head to the Sunshine Coast hinterland and explore a native garden that is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. 147 Squeeze The Day Horticulturist Tammy Huynh on growing citrus.
151 Design ideas to make your kitchen sizzle 10 Subscribe to H&G this month and receive a terrazzo vessel from Zakkia, valued at $58! 20 Your H&G Readers’ letters. 192 Where To Buy Seen something you like? Find your nearest stockist. 193 Privacy Notice
Photograph by Anson Smart.
96 Rising Star A spectacular property on Sydney’s Northern Beaches now has a home that makes the most of its magnificent outlook. 108 California Dream Bringing a heritage bungalow up to date gave its owners the best of both worlds. 118 Naturally Wonderful The surrounding landscape provided inspiration aplenty for this breezy home on the NSW South Coast.
H G EDITOR’S LETTER
“To me, true luxury is HAVING the means and the KNOW-HOW to get the bones of the LAYOUT just right.”
Tanya Buchanan, Editor in chief TOP PICKS
Tanya’s top five
UNWIND
Breville ‘Creatista Pro’ Nespresso coffee machine, $999, Harvey Norman; harveynorman.com.au
COVET
Loopi wall sconce in brass and white frosted glass, from $8200, Articolo; articolo.com.au
COLLECT
The Three Amigos MkII painting by Stef Tarasov, $2090, michaelreid studiodirect.com.au.
SCENT
Penhaligon’s ‘Brilliantly British’ 100ml eau de parfum, $289, libertineparfumerie.com.au.
UPDATE
Miele G7969 SCVi XXL fully integrated dishwasher, $4399, Harvey Norman; harveynorman.com.au.
Photograph by Kristina Soljo. Hair and make-up by Samantha Powell.
O
f course, it’s no secret that the team at House & Garden loves decorating and styling. A deft touch makes it possible to transform a lacklustre or tricky space. But sometimes artfully placed paintings, custom-made cushions and carefully curated objets are simply not enough to resolve a room so that the anxious eye of the beholder (or constant renovator) can rest! To me, true luxury is having the means and know-how to get the bones of the layout – the essential backbone of your home design – just right. Whether you’re building from scratch or adapting an existing dwelling, it pays to engage an expert design team from the outset. Get the flow wrong initially and it will be a constant niggle – plus a big and potentially expensive challenge to fix later. I love that every house in this issue is truly bespoke. There was synchronicity between the owners and architect/designers in every case, which is evident in the incredible outcomes. I am inspired and very envious of the fantastic homes these partnerships have wrought.Regular House & Garden contributor Stephen Crafti worked with architect Richard Simeoni on his Milano-meets-Melbourne masterpiece, page 88, and Elspeth and Brian Noxon engaged architect son Justin to design a luminous, airy extension to their Mornington Peninsula home, page 22. Justin says, “It fills me with joy to see my parents so happy living here”. And when homeowners volunteer comments like “The home Adam helped us create here has given us our dream lifestyle,” (Brewer Architects, page 96); “There was always the right balance between inspiration and practicality” (Studio Prineas, page 108); “We built this as our long-term house, and we are certainly in no hurry to move” (Corben Architects, page 128); and “It feels like being wrapped in a favourite blanket. When I’m here any stress I have just melts away,” ( Your Beautiful Home, page 118)... you know the lifeenhancing results were worth the hours spent in tedious planning and building. The kitchen is king in terms of the hierarchy of the house, and we have a stunning selection of inspiring spaces that will have you drawing or pinning that moodboard in no time! I like designer Kate Walker’s approach. She has created zones in the kitchen, grouped into the three ‘c’s: cooking (and preparation); consumables; and cleaning. That simple definition is the best kitchen-planning starting point I have heard in a long time. And Kate’s designs always exude both style and substance – see our cover and page 160 for more. We hope you enjoy the accomplished work of the talented troupe of shapeshifters in this issue.
FURNITURE & HOMEWARES | INTERIOR DESIGN | PROPERTY STYLING | DESIGN SCHOOL WWW.COCOREPUBLIC.COM.AU
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EDITORIAL Editor in chief Tanya Buchanan Creative director Antonietta Panuccio Deputy editor Elizabeth Wilson Interiors editor Kate Nixon Chief copy editor Sarah Pickette Senior content/production editor Tamarah Pienaar Homes group coordinators Sara Sleeman and Matilda Ringrose ART & STYLE Art director Shayne Burton Designer/stylist Sophie Wilson Prepress specialist Matus Kundrat CONTRIBUTORS
Donna Allen, Marcel Aucar, Kate Barber, Laura Barry, Jackie Brygel, Aisha Chaudry, Darren Christison, Stephen Crafti, Anna Delprat, Claire Driscoll Delmar, Elise Elliott, Nicole England, Ess. Creative, Tom Ferguson, Julia Green, Joe Grey, Armelle Habib, Stephanie Hope, Tammy Huynh, Holly Irvine, Christopher Frederick Jones, Kerri-Ann Jones, Ryan Linnegar, Madeline McFarlane, Shannon McGrath, Chris Pearson, Samantha Powell, Anson Smart, Kristina Soljo, Sue Stubbs, Kelly Tapp, Nerida Thorburn, Samantha Torrisi, Pablo Veiga, Helen Ward, Chris Warnes, Ruth Welsby, Simon Whitbread ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION Head of brands Anna Mistilis (02) 9282 8111 Group commercial brand manager Rhonda Maunder (02) 9282 8687 Advertising production manager Kate Orsborn (02) 9282 8364 Brand executive Mikayla Skarzynski (02) 9282 8142 Victoria, SA & WA sales director Jaclyn Clements (03) 9823 6341 Director of sales, NSW Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 Victoria head of direct sales Will Jamison (03) 9823 6301 Queensland head of sales Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 General manager – production services Ian McHutchison Production controller Sally Jefferys Advertising production controller Dominic Roy (02) 9282 8691 Senior event manager Cate Gazal (02) 8226 9342 MARKETING & CIRCULATION Marketing director Louise Cankett Senior marketing manager Jillian Hogan Circulation manager Robert McIntosh Subscriptions campaign manager Jesvin Vincent Brand manager Sarah Webster Marketing enquiries homes@aremedia.com.au ARE MEDIA CORPORATE Chief executive officer Brendon Hill Finance director David Loeffler Executive general manager – publishing & digital operations Sarah-Belle Murphy Publisher – homes titles Shane Sutton Director of sales Andrew Cook Customer director Sally Eagle Business manager Georgina Bromfield Syndications syndication@aremedia.com.au New Zealand enquiries +61 2 9282 8505 SUBSCRIPTION SALES & ENQUIRIES
Magshop GPO Box 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia Phone 136 116 (Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm AEDT) Web magshop.com.au All other Australian House & Garden enquiries: (02) 9282 8456
Published by Are Media Pty Ltd (ABN 053 273 546), 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. The trademark AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN is the property of Are Media Pty Ltd and is used under licence. © 2021. All rights reserved. Printed by Ovato, 31-37 Heathcote Road, Moorebank, NSW 2170. National distribution by Gordon and Gotch Australia Pty Ltd. 1300 650 666. ISSN 0004-931X. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Are Media does not accept responsibility for damage to or loss of freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. For enquiries regarding subscriptions, call 136 116 Monday-Friday 8am-6pm AEDT, email magshop@magshop.com.au or mail letters to: Australian House & Garden, Reply Paid 3508, Sydney, NSW 2001 or subscribe online at magshop.com.au/hg. Subscription rate*: Australia $79.99 (one year, 12 issues); NZ A$120 (one year, 12 issues); other countries A$180 (one year, 12 issues). All overseas subscriptions sent air speed. *Recommended price, Australian House & Garden.
H G LETTERS
YOUR H&G I’m writing from the comfort of my bed, after spending a lazy morning poring over the January issue. With Covid-19 cases continuing to pop up across NSW, borders were closed to us and the summer holiday we had so been looking forward to was cancelled. Rather than getting down about it, I decided to create the holiday vibe at home: indulging my love for H&G and dog-earring pages to inspire our next home refresh. Thank you for remaining a source of inspiration and escapism during these difficult times. Jisella Corradini-Bird, North Wollongong, NSW It was our fourth wedding anniversary recently and, given the traditional gift is fruit and flowers, I thought I would be a bit creative and bought my husband a subscription to H&G. What better gift than one we can both enjoy! We especially loved the ultimate family home issue (February). We are about to embark on the renovation of our own family home, and the issue gave us lots of great design ideas. Looking forward to more H&G in 2021. Katrina Monagle, Elizabeth Bay NSW CH A NGING TIMES
I think the January issue of H&G somehow chose me... New beginnings for a new year were on my mind when I saw it, and the tranquillity of the cover photo won me over. I was thinking of changing everything up in my home: painting, adding some new rugs, cushions and finessing the decor overall. I rent, so I can’t change anything about the structure. I had a Hamptons scheme
in mind, but after reading the feature Glory Days (page 74), I am now obsessed with a take on a Victorian-era Colonial style, lots of greenery and an overall feeling of relaxed comfort. I think 2020 changed some of us for the better. Sherin Pickering, Kallangur, Queensland W HERE INSPIR ATION LI V ES
Australian House & Garden is my little treat to myself and each month, I feel like a little kid at Christmas. All of the imagery is so beautiful, I don’t quite know where to look first. I always want to jump into the pages to touch and feel what I am seeing... We purchased our ‘little farmhouse on the hill’ four years ago. Our hope was to one day renovate and give the old girl a new lease on life. Four years of hard work and sacrifice and we are finally starting our dream renovation. H&G has been my guiding light in my design choices, bridging the gap between hopes and reality. Thank you. Diane Apap, Heathcote Junction, Victoria
W RIT E IN TO W IN The author of each letter published receives $50. Our favourite also wins a prize. This month, Jisella CorradiniBird receives a beautiful Aalto vase in Amethyst (27cm) from Iittala. Part of the company’s 140th Anniversary Collection, it’s made from blown glass and valued at $469; iittala.com.au. Email your letter to H&G@aremedia.com.au or post to Your H&G, PO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 1028. Please include your full name and address.
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H^G social
The posts that made your month Facebookers fell for the barefoot elegance of this NSW South Coast home, a restored 1880s terrace won hearts on Instagram, and the outside-in modernisation of a Perth home took top spot on Pinterest. Facebook facebook.com/ australianhouseandgarden Highlights from each issue plus links to tours of our favourite homes. Instagram @houseandgarden View the most inspirational images of the month from H&G headquarters and out and about. Pinterest pinterest.com.au/ houseandgardenau Picture-perfect images from our pages and sensational products to covet.
Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
PRESE N TS OF MIN D
BRANCHING OUT Thanks to their architect son, Elspeth and Brian Noxon gained a beautifully bespoke home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula – the perfect place to share with family and to savour their retirement. STO RY Chris Pearson | ST Y LI N G Ruth Welsby | P H OTO GR A PH Y Shannon McGrath
Expansive window areas and views of the valley are afforded by the new extension. Herman Miller Eames armchairs from Living Edge. Arethusa sculpture on the deck by Douglas Stephen. Dining table from Zuster. Walls in Dulux Monument. The beautiful golden elm was an existing feature of the property. Landscape design by James Ross Landscape.
at home with H G
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H G at home with
Georgia the cavalier King Charles spaniel sits on a Poltrona Frau ‘GranTorino’ sofa from Leonard Joel. George Nelson Saucer pendant light, Eames stool armchair, all Living Edge. OPPOSITE TOP Architect Justin Noxon. Arethusa sculpture by Douglas Stephen. Blackbutt decking, Everist Timber. OPPOSITE MIDDLE
Pisces sculpture by Douglas Stephen in an outdoor sitting area. OPPOSITE BOTTOM
Muuto ‘Pull’ floor lamp, Living Edge. Pisces sculptures by Douglas Stephen. Cheminees Philippe Radiante double-sided fireplace from Wignells Heating & Cooking.
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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
any architects and interior designers avoid designing homes for family and friends. “It has the potential to go wrong,” says Justin Noxon of Noxon architects, who challenged thatnotionbycreatingthisluminous, airy house for his parents, Elspeth and Brian Noxon, on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. And what a happy outcome. According to his parents, it’s the best house they have ever lived in, fitting them like a glove and future-proofing their retirement years. Andwhobetterthantheirsontounderstand and interpret > their needs, now and in the future?
“I WAS AMAZED AT THE VIEW THAT WAS REVEALED. THE LIGHT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL ON THE TREES, THE DAM AND THE HILLS.” Elspeth Noxon, owner
Poul Henningsen ‘PH5’ pendant lights from Cult. Antique dining table. No. 811 Hoffmann dining chairs, Thonet. Astra Walker ‘Icon’ tap, E&S. Island pendant light, Inlite. Kitchen designed by Noxon. Island clad in French oak; in-line cabinets finished in Dulux Natural White. Benchtops in Corian Glacier White, made by Homestead Cabinets. Oven from The Aga Shop. >
at home with H G
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H G at home with THIS IMAGE The former sitting room, now a music room, retains its original slate fireplace. Justin found the Grant Featherston rocker in a vintage shop and had it re-covered. Persian rug and antique chest. Artworks above fireplace by Lisa Stebbing (left) and A.E. Noxon. Sculptures on stairs by Douglas Stephen. LEFT In the kitchen/dining, the handmade clay bowl on bottom shelf is from Papua New Guinea. Study Maquettes sculptures by Douglas Stephen.
Elspeth and Brian bought the property in 2015, with aneyetopreservingtheMid-Centurycottageatitscentre, a small gesture of defiance against the increasing prevalance of ‘McMansions’ in the area. But as much as they loved its crisp style of architecture, the cottage had shortcomings: a leaky roof, mould, and tiny windows that short-changed the rural panorama at its doorstep. Most worrying of all, it was clad in asbestos sheeting. At the time, the couple were living on an 8-hectare farm nearby and looking to downsize, but they weren’t convinced this home was the right place to resettle. While they considered whether to retain the property or on-sell it, Justin, a lover of Mid-Century domestic architecture, pressed on with rejuvenating the cottage. He stripped the building down to the timber frame and restumped it. But the biggest transformation was the addition of a vast open-plan living area on the eastern side, which looks straight up the valley and down to an idyllic golden pond below. “We opened the house up to the view and the morning light,” says Justin. When Elspeth saw what could be achieved, she was delighted. “I was amazed at the view that was revealed,” she says. “The light was so beautiful on the trees and the dam and the rolling hills. And the sky assumed terrific > importance – it became an ever-changing thing.”
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“IT FILLS ME WITH JOY TO SEE MY PARENTS SO HAPPY LIVING HERE.” Justin Noxon, architect
H G at home with
Decision to stay made, Justin tweaked his plans to personalise the home for his parents and their lifestyle. The result is a house that combines the spectacular and intimate in equal measure. From a humble facade that reflects the essence of the original cottage, the entry hall passes through the old section of the house with a study to the left and music/ living room to the right. Next door to the living room, the main bedroom suite was enlarged and zoned into two separatesleepingareas,eachwithensuite,connectedbya dressingroom.Thespacescaneasilybereunited,ifdesired. In order to accommodate any future mobility issues, level changes are kept to a minimum, and there’s wheelchairaccessshoulditberequired.Aseparatestudio was upgraded to become Elspeth’s light-filled workspace and a new lap pool added for the active octogenarians. Upstairs, two bedrooms – mostly used by visiting grandchildren – are tucked under a roofline raised subtly so as to not disrupt the profile. Down a flight of steps from the hallway, there’s a living area in the 60 squaremetre extension. Beyond, valley vistas are framed by expanses of sliding glass that lead to a large deck. In keeping with the local farmhouse vernacular, Justin clad the building in weatherboards. “I love the texture and the shadowlinestheycreate,” hesays.“They continue thestoryoftheneighbouringcottages, helping this house sit quietly in its surroundings.” Mid-Century accents are sprinkled throughout, including classic Eames armchairs and tables, and George Nelson and Poul Henningsen pendant lights. Meanwhile, sculptures by Justin’s grandfather, Douglas Stephen, and artworks by Elspeth and other local artists lend a personal touch. “I like the fact we kept the section at the front, which everyone thought we would demolish,” says Justin. “The spiritoftheoldhouseisretained,butnowithasasurprise at the rear. It’s sensitive and subtle, humble and gentle.” And family ties have been strengthened rather than stretched by this collaboration between parents and son. “Working with my parents set the bar high,” says Justin. “They are sensitive clients who were not afraid to ask, ‘Why are you doing that?’ But that just means they were passionate about the project. It fills me with joy to see my parents so happy living here.” > Noxon, South Yarra, Victoria; (03) 9650 8988 or noxon.com.au. RD McGowan Building, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria; 0408 513 303. James Ross Landscape Design, Noosa, Queensland; 0401 669 927 or jamesrosslandscape.com.au.
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The unassuming facade segues into interiors of supreme elegance. Door in Dulux Baby Blue. James Hardie ‘Linea’ weatherboards painted Dulux Monument. Landscaping by James Ross Landscape Design. BELOW LEFT Pool by East Coast Pools is bordered by travertine coping tile and a blackbutt trellis. BELOW RIGHT Elspeth, Justin and Brian with cavalier King Charles spaniels Maddy and Georgia. OPPOSITE Top and bottom The simple, elegant main ensuite is fitted with a Duravit ‘Cape Cod’ bath from E&S, ‘Icon’ spout from Astra Walker and a custom vanity by Noxon. Bisazza ‘Ghiaccio’ wall mosaics, Academy Tiles+Surfaces. November floor tiles, Classic Ceramics. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
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LIFE & ST YLE Justin shares some firsts and favourite things.
FIRST ADULT HOME? My wife Emma and I bought an unrenovated Victorian
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workers’ cottage in Rozelle, Sydney. Our daughters, Stella, now 18, and Poppy, 12, were born while we were living there. We returned to Melbourne in 2010. BUCKET-LIST DESTINATION? Tasmania (7). I have been once with our extended family. We toured all around for two weeks and I cannot wait to get back. Further afield, I am looking into a long, long walk across the Pyrenees. DREAM RESTAURANT TABLE? Any one of the many fine eateries along the Mornington Peninsula. I love anything locally sourced and made. The farm-to-table experience just can’t be beaten. DREAM CAR? I’d enter any lottery with an Aston Martin DB4 GT on offer (6). FAVOURITE DOWNTIME PURSUIT? Relaxing around the fire pit after a day’s work on my property, Walden Cottage, in Flinders. A favourite tipple is Ten Minutes by Tractor pinot noir (8). FAVOURITE MUSIC? Depends on my mood – my playlist is pretty eclectic. FAVOURITE COLOUR? The sky at dusk. PROFESSIONALLY I’M MOST PROUD OF… Main Ridge Dairy (1). I designed it for my brother, a local cheese maker, so it’s very close to my heart. The structure is simple, elemental and beautiful. Another project, Manning Road House in Melbourne’s Malvern East (3, 9), is more dramatic but equally special. WHO INSPIRES YOU IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN? Swiss architect Peter Zumthor. I visited many of his buildings, such as Saint Benedict Chapel in Sumvitg (4, 5) and the Thermal Baths at Vals (2), when my son Felix, now 20, and I were in Switzerland in 2018. It was great fun and a real privilege. NEXT MAJOR PURCHASE? Paying off the mortgage. WHAT ITEM CAN’T YOU LIVE WITHOUT? The pandemic reinforced the joy of a simple life. I really treasure time at Walden Cottage with family and friends. #
6 “I’d enter any lottery with a an Aston Martin DB4 GT on offeer.” 32 |
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Photography by Shannon McGrath (1), 7132 Therme (2), Peter Clarke (3, 8), Alamy (5), Getty Images (6).
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H G AT HOME WITH
“Having admired Caesarstone for years, I’m so excited to bring it into the outdoors!”
Award-winning Landscape Designer
Outdoor Collection Luxurious and durable. Highly UV resistant. Proven performance.
D e c or at i ng
Styling by Kate Nixon. Photograph by Krisitina Soljo. Foliage from Bess Paddington.
C ON T E MPOR A RY T WIST Make an impact by seeking out striking shapes.
TA B L E S E T T I N G S T O S U I T E V E RY S T Y L E A N D O C C A S I O N
H G decorating
Visual feast
With the right ingredients, you can create a tablescape to delight your guests even before the meal arrives. STY LI NG Kate Nixon | P H OTO GR A P HY Kristina Soljo | FLOW ER S Bess Paddington
C ON T E MPOR A RY T W IS T
PREVIOUS PAGE Clockwise from top left Nolan tongs $19.95, and Yarra dip bowl, $12.95, both Country Road.
Marimekko ‘Oiva Rasymatto’ 20cm plate, $39, Top3 by Design. Billie white-wine glass, $240/four, Spence & Lyda. Eliot egg cup, $16.95, Academy Home Goods. Marimekko ‘Oiva Saapaivakirja’ 25cm plate, $55, Top3 by Design. Pewter 30cm charger, $49, West Elm. Lind DNA ‘Curve’ table mat, $39.90, Top3 by Design. Serax carafe by Anita Le Grelle, $80, Spence & Lyda. IVV Vertigo tumbler, $151.25/six, Noritake. Kuru bowl, $129, Iittala. Alessi ‘Trinity’ centrepiece, $310, Skagerak ‘Edge’ sugar bowl, $77, and Normann Copenhagen ‘Salon’ tray, $210, all Top3 by Design. Cutipol ‘Moon’ teaspoon, $937.90/24-piece cutlery set, Francalia. Pickle bowl, $23, Mud Australia. Arro coaster, $34.95/four, Country Road. Limoges teacup and saucer, $122, Francalia. Teapot, $179, Mud Australia. For similar side plate, try Royal Doulton. Oak 24cm plate, $39.95, The Bay Tree. Vintage Chinese fabric, $45/m, and Sands Made ‘Rock’ serving board, $79, both Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. Tall vessel, stylist’s own. Dé teacup, $65/two, Spence & Lyda. For similar sushi plate, try Peter’s of Kensington. Copenhagen salt mill, $49, West Elm. Ruutu vase, $79.95, Iittala. Aalto oak tray, $159, Top3 by Design. Vintage Japanese ceramic, $95, Planet. DOIY ‘Eclipse’ chips and dip bowl, $59, and Stelton ‘Cylinda-Line’ servers, $169.90/pair, all Top3 by Design. Oly ‘George’ cocktail table, $4295, Coco Republic. Confetti vinyl flooring, from $40/m² (supply only), Gerflor. >
Stylist’s assistants Viera Tomasikova, Kate Lincoln, Paloma Maine and Andrea Hudcovicova.
C O U N T R Y F L AV O U R
OPPOSITE Othello dining table, $1699, and Bastion dining chairs, $199 each, all Early Settler. Rimini Meleze tea towel, $49.90/two, Francalia. Primetex Colorado vinyl flooring in Dark Grey, $25m² (supply only), Gerflor. ON TABLE Clockwise from top left Vintage copper jug, $125, The Bay Tree. Avery tumbler, $8.95, Provincial Home Living. Ralph Lauren ‘Garden Vine’ dinner plate, $78, Palmer & Penn. Katakuchi cup, $77, and rice bowl, $88, both Planet. Walden napkin, $76/four, Williams Sonoma. French Garden Green Line breakfast plate, $37.95, Villeroy & Boch. Hayman placemat, $12.95, Provincial Home Living. Stone Series serving spoons, $135/pair, Slip Ceramics. Taper candle, $10.95/two, Francalia. Stoneware candleholder, $20, The Bay Tree. Avery goblet, $12.95, Provincial Home Living. Fid pewter cutlery, $33.50/place setting, The DEA Store. Chieti Meleze tea towel, $49.90/two, Francalia. Brussels Sprouts side plate, $43.50, The Bay Tree. Dinner plate and placemat, as before. 1930s salt and pepper mills, $695/pair, Greene & Greene Antiques. Rattan coaster, $33/six, Casa by Studio Kate. Bretagne mug, $6.95, Provincial Home Living. Fid teaspoon, as before. Revive spoon rest, $9.95, Ladelle. Staghorn carving set, $2500, Casa by Studio Kate. Eco Sole chopping board, $39, Early Settler. Shiro bowl, $27, The DEA Store. Arlo lazy susan, $89, Early Settler. Antique French kitchen jar (used as vase), $110, Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. Les Ceramiques de Lussan ‘Guinea Fowl’ ornament (brown), $310, and ‘Quail’ ornament (yellow), $219, Maison et Jardin. Vintage pourer, $95, The Bay Tree.
C O U N T R Y F L AV O U R Revel in the rustic: forest green is a natural partner to timber.
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H G decorating
C OA S TA L SPL A SH Look to gentle washes of ocean blue and the textures of rattan for a table with a subtle nod to sea and sand.
OR G A N IC I NGR E DIE N T S Embrace the irrestible allure of earthy tones and intriguingly shaped tableware for a casual, relaxed gathering.
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H G decorating
Pick and mix your tableware according to season, occasion and taste. B R I G H T S PA R K
OPPOSITE Clockwise from top left Atrium Garde-robe Pop tray, $1810, Hermès. Ayu cutlery, $39/place setting,
Inartisan. Lalique ‘Bacchantes’ vase, $12,350, Palmer & Penn. Tropical Palms fabric in Aloe, POA, Westbury Textiles. Hand-painted dinner plate, $120, Alex and Trahanas. Sake jug, $61, Mud Australia. Kyoto sake cup, $58, The DEA Store. Malachite dish, $135, Becker Minty. Vintage enamelled coffee spoons, $620/6-piece set, Greene & Greene Antiques. Apulian basket, $660, Alex and Trahanas. Vintage Chinese fabric, $80/m, Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. Pip Woods vase, $540, Casa by Studio Kate. Rock salad servers, $110/pair, Dinosaur Designs. Summer Stripe fabric in Straw, POA, Westbury Textiles. Shell teaspoon, $25, Dinosaur Designs. Speedy bowl, $187.50/six assorted, Noritake. Rock teaspoon, $25, Dinosaur Designs. Passifolia No 1 dessert plate, $265, Hermès. Maison Balzac ‘J’ai Soif’ carafe set, $89, David Jones. Round serving spoon, $90, Dinosaur Designs. Agate slice, $152, Planet. Dittoki chopsticks, $12.90, Top3 by Design. Japanese kokeshi teaspoon, $9.95, The Bay Tree. Jaguar fabric in Indigo, POA, Westbury Textiles. Heather Rosenman Ceramics ‘Scribe Series’ plate, $755, Spence & Lyda. Birds by Toikka ‘Kesuri’ limited-edition ornament, $799, Iittala. Koi bowl, $11.95, and shell spoon, $17.50, both The Bay Tree. Dé 28cm plate, $255/pair, Spence & Lyda.
C OA S TA L SPL A SH
PAGE 38 Clockwise from top left Bamboo outdoor wineglass, $6.95, and highball glass, $7.95, Alfresco
Emporium. Bone Series shallow bowl, $85, and Coral Series large bowl, $220, both Slip Ceramics. Seed teaspoon, $25, Dinosaur Designs. Sugar bowl, $24, Mud Australia. Komodo shell ornament, $175, Coco Republic. Etched water glass, $98, The DEA Store. Rattan-wrapped cutlery, $50/3-piece set, The Bay Tree. Dint votive holder, $66, Planet. Abaca napkin ring, $31/four, Williams Sonoma. Vintage Indochinese fabric, $40/m, Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. For similar side plate, try Royal Doulton. Aozora dinner plate, $249.75/12-piece dinner set, Noritake. Fringed placemat, $7.95, Alfresco Emporium. Jade bowl, $190, Slip Ceramics. Azina placemat, $14.95, Freedom. Bamboo folding chair, $89, Alfresco Emporium.
OR G A N IC I NGR E DIE N T S
PREVIOUS PAGE For similar animal-print fabrics, try Spotlight. Wall painted Interno Lime Wash in Camelback, $130/4L, Porter’s Paints. Sierra stackable outdoor chair, $635, Coco Republic. Vintage dining table. ON TABLE Clockwise from top left Ochre Series palm bowl, $55, Slip Ceramics. Tree root serving bowl, $69, Inartisan. Taper
candles, $10.90/pair, Francalia. Tom Dixon ‘Rock’ candleholders, $290/set of two, Top3 by Design. Coconut sorbet bowl, $40, Slip Ceramics. Bem loop handle cheese board, $39, Inartisan. Alpren jug, $85, Planet. Boulder grinders in Black Marble (left) and Dark Horn, $330 each, Dinosaur Designs. Robert Gordon ‘Ceylon’ side plate in White, $20, both The DEA Store. Mini Spade timber spoon, $14.90/four assorted, and Dalia mother-of-pearl spoon, $9.90/four, both Inartisan. Kyoto Ceramics bowl, $19, Casa by Studio Kate. Coral Series textured plate, $55, Slip Ceramics. Zoe cutlery, $1020/24-piece set, Spence & Lyda. Tapas spoon, $18, The DEA Store. Skipping Stone vase, $109, Dinosaur Designs. Altered Hexagonal coaster, $5, Planet. Shigaraki sake cup, $62, The DEA Store. Stone butter knife, $45,and Rock cup, $95, both Dinosaur Designs. Handmade metal tray, $200, Conley & Co. ON TRAY Clockwise from top Espresso cup and saucer, $83, Mud Australia. Textured platter, $290, Slip Ceramics. Eye napkins, $39/two, The DEA Store. Vintage Japanese teapot, $95, and Japanese wood-imprint plate, $165, both Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. >
B R I G H T S PA R K Sunny colours whet the appetite so everything you’re serving sings with flavour.
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R OM A N T IC GE S T U R E Delicate pinks and deep peach tones set the table – and the scene – for a meal you’ll love. THIS PAGE, ON WALL Pepe Penalver ‘Tequila’ fabric in Colour 02, POA, Westbury Textiles. ON TABLE From left Table runner made from Society Limonta ‘Nap Viky’ pillowcases, $355 each, Ondene. Napkin in Charleston fabric in Blossom, POA, Westbury Textiles. Pip Woods jug, $540, Casa by Studio Kate. Antique teapot, $195, Greene & Greene Antiques. Maison Balzac Champagne flute in Amber, $79/pair, and stemless wineglass with gold rim, $34.95/pair, both David Jones. Luxe Ridged tealight holder, $14, Domayne. Dipping bowl in Slate, $48, Mud Australia. Geo Puzzle napkin, $34/four, West Elm. Coral Series textured bowl, $135, Slip Ceramics. Diesel Home for Seletti ‘Machine’ dinner plate, $75, Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. Santanna dinner plate, $22.95, Freedom. Goa cutlery, $916.90/24-piece set, Francalia. Lalique ‘Sakura’ vase, $935, Palmer & Penn. Maison Balzac ‘Margot’ candle, $19, and stemless wineglass, $34.95/pair, both David Jones. Seed bowl in Pink Guava, $145, Dinosaur Designs. Cristina Re Champagne flute, $49.95/pair, David Jones. Boulder coaster, $45, Dinosaur Designs. C.1800 Barr & Flight breakfast cup and saucer, $110, Greene & Greene Antiques. Maison Balzac ‘Chandelles’ taper candles, $29/four, David Jones. Princess candlesticks, $18.90 each, Francalia. Aerin ‘Leon’ bottle stopper, $180, Palmer & Penn. Wine cup in Blossom, $58, Mud Australia. C.1860 Parianware vase, $895, and antique silver teaspoon, $495/ utensil set, both Greene & Greene Antiques. Speedy bowl, $187.50/six assorted, Noritake. Diesel Home for Seletti ‘Machine’ soup plate, $62, Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. Coral Series large plate, $165, Slip Ceramics. Santanna dinner plate, $22.95, Freedom. Vintage Japanese lidded bowl, $190/set of two, Planet. Puglia bowl, $10.95, Freedom. Santanna dinner plate, $22.95, Freedom. Pamela Tang vessel, $509, Casa by Studio Kate. Flutes, as before. Floral stemless Champagne glass, $65/four, Francalia. Temple side plate, $65, Dinosaur Designs. Vintage Japanese plate, $245/set of five, Planet. Limoges bread plate with gold rim, $69, Francalia. Flared bowl, $40, Mud Australia. Loreto candlestick, $69.95, Provincial Home Living. Pilar travertine statue, $185, Coco Republic. Tablecloth made from Pepe Penalver ‘Calafate’ fabric, POA, Westbury Textiles. >
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decorating H G
N IC E LY NOIR Elevate your dishes to star status by serving them on deliciously dark tableware paired with glamorous gold.
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H G decorating CL A S SIC T OUCH Nothing suggests timeless style like a table adorned with crystal, candlesticks and fine flutes. THIS PAGE, ON WALL For similar wallcovering, try Scandinavian Wallpaper & Décor. ON TABLE From left Bark Texture table runner, $69, West Elm. Busatti hemstitch napkin, $45, Casa by Studio Kate. Braidwood soup bowl, $39, Noritake. La Classica Contura buffet plate, $165, Villeroy & Boch. Silver Pyramid place card holder, $52/four, Williams Sonoma. Treasures of the Sea Colleen vase, $749, Waterford Crystal. La Classica Contura flat plate, $89.95, Villeroy & Boch. Braidwood dinner plate, $54, Noritake. Lismore Essence white-wine glass, $229/pair, Waterford Crystal. Elysee Stripe Champagne glass, $65/four, Francalia. Antique silver cutlery, $9950/86-piece set, Greene & Greene Antiques. Baccarat ‘Bubbles in a Box’ flute, $2299/set of six, Palmer & Penn. Cire Trudon ‘L’Esclave’ bust, $350, Libertine Parfumerie. Limoges creamer, $179, Francalia. Antique candelabrum, $5950/pair, Georg Jensen ‘Acorn’ carving knife and fork, $1250/set, and antique napkin rings, from $95 each, all Greene & Greene Antiques. Busatti hemstitch napkins, $45 each, Casa by Studio Kate. La Classica Contura bread plate, $79.95, Villeroy & Boch. WoW Dune salad plate, $84/four, Noritake. C.1830s food warmer, $930/pair, Greene & Greene Antiques. Amina cake stand, $79.95, Provincial Home Living. Lismore Essence white-wine glass, $229/pair, Waterford Crystal. Baccarat ‘Bubbles in a Box’ flute, $2299/set of six, Palmer & Penn. Boulder coaster, $45, Dinosaur Designs. Antique Baccarat decanter, $2800, Conley & Co. Elysee Stripe Champagne glass, $65/four, Francalia. Agate coaster, $89/four, West Elm. Tablecloth in Pepe Penalver ‘Tineo’ fabric, POA, Westbury Textiles.
N IC E LY NOIR The magic of black lies in its ability to bring a sense of easy sophistication to any celebration. PREVIOUS PAGE Knox nesting tables, $2695/set of two, Coco Republic. Vintage Japanese kimono silk (on floor), $40/m, Chee Soon & Fitzgerald. ON TABLES Clockwise from top left Cire Trudon ‘Imperial’ pillar candle, $135, Libertine Parfumerie. Drop incense holder, $30, Dinosaur Designs.
Chloe Champagne glass, $12.95, Ladelle. Aristotle candleholder, $780, Greg Natale. Kaawi carafe with tumbler, $200, Leilah. Aurora Champagne glass, $29.95/pair, Ladelle. Manufacture Swirl votive holder, $26.95, Villeroy & Boch. Metropolis cheeseboard, $590, and Brooke catch-all, $270, both Greg Natale.For similar cups, try Planet. Chelsea cutlery, $300/30-piece set, Greg Natale. Mid Century Design napkin ring, $225/six, and Lucasa ‘Octopus’ napkin, $110/four, both Becker Minty. BoB Dune appetiser plate, $68/four, Noritake. Manufacture Rock dinner plate, $39.95, Villeroy & Boch. Ripple charger plate, $4.35, Koch & Co. Michael Verheyden placemat, $75, Becker Minty. Koonam tealight candleholder, $125, Conley & Co. Tom Dixon ‘Tank’ decanter, $250, Top3 by Design. Lucasa ‘Oyster’ napkin, $110/four, and similar tray, Becker Minty. Clam Shell spoon, $70/four, Leilah. Anna New York ‘Kiva’ platter, $1295, Becker Minty. Chloe tumbler, $8.95, Ladelle. Agate coaster, $89/four, West Elm. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #
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decorating H G
Ask an expert
K ITCHEN UPDATES
Room design and styling by Studio Kate. Photograph by Maree Homer.
changing details and accents can create a fresh new look, writes Kate Nixon.
H&G interiors editor Kate Nixon in her own kitchen: “Focus a refresh on the areas that can be seen. If the work surfaces are in good condition, look at refinishing the vertical expanses with new paint, wallpaper panels or feature tiles.” AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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H G DECORATING
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ever before have we asked more of our kitchens, with both form and function on duty as we work, eat and entertain at home. If a full-scale renovation isn’t on the horizon for 2021, consider some quick updates and easy refreshes to up your productivity and everyday joy. Replacing a dated splashback or benchtop can be a relatively small project with big results. Repainting a tired timber door and drawers creates a fresh clean slate for beautiful new hardware. Decorative lighting – wall or ceiling – can help define the kitchen within an open-plan layout, plus deliver warmth and personality. Window treatments are an easy way to inject colour or pattern into a neutral palette; include floating shelves to display art and decorative objects. >
Shop around... fronts for Ikea kitchens; renstudio.com.au. TIMBER MILL After-market kitchen hacks and custom millwork to suit all budgets; timbermill.com.au. CENTAUR CELLARS Australian-designed and made wine racks; centaurcellars.com.au. LO & CO Chic cabinetry hardware; loandcointeriors.com.au. DOMAYNE Extensive range of appliances; domayne. com.au. LUDUCO LIVING Specialists in locally made dining/cabinet furniture; luduco.com HARVEY NORMAN A large range of stools in upholstered, acrylic and timber finishes; harveynorman.com.au.
Window treatments such as roman blinds present an easy way to reinvigorate a kitchen.
Special ingredients
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1 Visual Comfort ‘Antonio’ antiqued brass wall light by Thomas O’Brien, $799, Bloomingdales Lighting; bloomingdales.com.au. 2 Slimline leather-wrapped metal cabinet handle, $165, MadeMeasure; mademeasure.com. 3 White Leghorn Rooster, Sydney Royal Easter Show I artwork by Karen Barbouttis, $2200, Art2Muse Gallery; art2muse.com.au. 4 Perrin & Rowe ‘Country’ pot-filler tap in chrome finish, $795, The English Tapware Company; englishtapware.com.au. 5 Palecek ‘Marino’ barstool with jute backrest and upholstered seat, $4255, Boyd Blue; boydblue.com.
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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
Room design and styling by Studio Kate. Photograph by Maree Homer.
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For more information visit polyflor.com.au
H G DECORATING Fresh ideas & easy updates
For a quick kitchen refresh, consider swapping out key appliances such as an integrated rangehood for an exposed stainless steel design, or an exposed rangehood for an integrated style with a tiled or rendered finish. ● Consider updating old whitegoods in different finishes such as matt black or fingerprint-resistant stainless steel. ● Integrated wine storage brings a bespoke finish and custom racks can be fitted to existing cabinet dimensions. ● A change of surface helps demarcate zones for different purposes – especially useful in an open-plan space. ● Decant oils and seasonings into decorative vessels and display on the benchtop or open shelves. ● Large-scale foliage gives an instant lift. #
“A change of surface helps demarcate zones for different purposes – especially useful in an open-plan space.”
ABOVE Switch out old cabinet
fronts for glass or ones with a more stylish profile. THIS IMAGE When contrasted with cabinetry, appliances become the star of the show. LEFT Sleek feature lighting can make a world of difference to a space that feels stale.
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Room design and styling by Studio Kate (all images). Photography by Maree Homer.
●
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Switch to reliable home Wi-Fi with Telstra Smart Modem. Telstra’s Smart Modem is cleverly backed up by Australia’s best 4G network, so if the connection to your home stops, your Wi-Fi wont. 4G coverage required. Backup speeds capped at 25/2Mbps. Actual speeds may be lower. Visit us instore or online to learn more.
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW: Telstra Smart Modem: Mobile backup is available to premises in 4G coverage areas. Check coverage at telstra.com/coverage. Your mobile backup connection is capped at 25 Mbps for downloads and 2 Mbps for uploads. Actual speeds may be lower due to local conditions and content accessed.
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9 by design
Glassware Raise a glass to the perfect drinking companion for every occasion. ST Y L I N G Sophie Wilson | P HOTO GR A P H Y Kristina Soljo
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SPARKLING
Elegance Optic crystalline flute, $139/ pair, Waterford Crystal.
WHITE WINE
Globe crystalline whitewine glass, $119/pair, Wedgwood.
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COCKTAILS
Fferone Glassware ‘May’ blown-glass coupe, $375/pair, Becker Minty.
CLASSIC
Ultima Thule pressed-glass low-ball glass, $89.95/ pair, Iittala.
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CASUAL
Bitossi borosilicate glass tumbler, $149/six, Alex and Trahanas.
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TOASTING
Vera Wang ‘Duchesse’ crystal flute, $199/pair, Wedgwood.
Amaro Spritz crystal cocktail glasses, $85.95/pair, Hardtofind.
RED WINE
Ferm Living ‘Ripple’ blown-glass wineglass, $81/pair, Designstuff.
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SPIRITS
Salt&Pepper ‘Lined’ glass tumbler, $39/four, Domayne.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
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SPRITZERS
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Our rugs lie lightly on this earth.
A R M A D I LLO - C O.C O M
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Hair and make-up by Kelly Tapp.
Kira Jurado with her 1940 DeSoto and beloved “coworkers” (from left) Dallas, a one-yearold bull arab-cross; Jack, a 15-year-old Staffy, and Roxy, a 13-year-old border collie.
Hooked on C L A S S I C S For automotive upholsterer Kira Jurado, cars aren’t just machines, they’re vehicles for collecting cherished memories, writes motoring expert and WhichCar presenter Elise Elliott. PH OTOG R A P HY Kristina Soljo
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“I love the way classic cars create a community. People who share the same passion can meet over a bonnet and form friendships that last a lifetime.” Kira
Vintage sofa and side table with built-in lamp, both from Dirty Janes. Cushions, Adairs. OPPOSITE TOP Elise with Kira and the 1932 Ford Coupe she is lovingly restoring. Artworks by Alex Stellino (left, centre) and Ryan Ford. The vivid blue 1928 Ford Model A Tudor can be seen just outside. OPPOSITE MIDDLE Part of a 1938 Chevrolet pick up is used as garden art. OPPOSITE BOTTOM The ‘Whisky Room’ is furnished with vintage Chesterfield sofas from Lunatiques. Antique bar from Sally Beresford Antiques. Art prints by Estevan Oriol.
great house, great car H G
P
ulling up to Kira Jurado’s farm in Bargo, about 100 kilometres south-west of Sydney, is like taking a step back in time. Kira owns four beautiful vintage vehicles: a 1928 Ford Model A Tudor hot rod; a 1932 Ford Coupe; a 1940 DeSoto and a 1976 Toyota Crown wagon. It’s an impressive collection in anyone’s book, although perhaps not surprising for someone who’s an automotive upholsterer (also known as a motor trimmer) by trade. Kira says the bright blue Tudor is a sentimental favourite: her late father built it, and many childhood memories include cruising to car shows in this magnificent vehicle. There’s something special about the all-original 1940 DeSoto, which was launched by Chrysler and ceased production in 1961, too. Rather delightfully, Kira reserves this rare beauty for taking her three dogs – Jack, Roxy and Dallas – for a spin through the countryside. Despite being the youngest of the three, Dallas always commands the front passenger seat. Asamotortrimmer,Kirarepairs,refreshesandreplacestheupholstery, linings and trims on all kinds of vehicles. The walls of Kira’s workshop – her favourite room – are lined with vintage sewing machines, another example of her passion for her work. Kira says revitalising classic cars always brings her much joy. “Seeing a customer’s face light up when they see their beloved car looking brand new again is amazing.” Have you always appreciated classic cars? My passion for vintage cars comes from my father, who was a panel beater. He would take me to hot rod and custom car shows with him, and the experience made a reallybigimpressiononme.Ilovethewayclassiccarscreateacommunity. People who share the same passion can meet over a bonnet and form friendships that last a lifetime. > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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H G great house, great car
ABOVE LEFT “I inherited some of
these toolboxes from my father, along with his tools. They get a lot of use, as I need more than just a sewing machine to do my job,” says Kira. ABOVE A sample of Kira’s vintage sewing machine collection. LEFT A 1964 Buick Riviera, one of Kira’s current projects. BELOW LEFT Kira at work.
What’s the story behind your vehicles? The ’28 Model A Tudor hot rod, which I inherited from Dad, holds so many wonderful memories for me. It always makes me remember the good times when I drive it. I started building my own hot rod with Dad almost 10 years ago. It was a great experience and I learnt many skills along the way. The DeSoto is an all-round fun car. It still has the original drive line but it’s styled as a traditional lowrider, often referred to as a ‘bomb’. The dogs love it! I also hope to finish building my 1932 Ford Coupe this year. What is the appeal of vintage cars for a driver? Old cars are very different to drive compared to modern ones. With new vehicles, you can pretty much just put your foot down and go. But with older ones, you really have to focus, paying attention to both the sound and feel of the car as you go. When I’m driving a vintage vehicle, the stresses of life disappear as I focus on enjoying the drive. I’m lucky to have met my partner Sean, who is a mechanic by trade. He helps me with the maintenance of all my cars. When did your passion for cars, and their interiors in particular, begin? I always knew I wanted to work with cars, just like my dad and his father [an automotive painter] before him. As a teenager, I also enjoyed sewing my own clothes, so the upholstery trade really suited me. My family and friends all encouraged me to follow my heart and enter the motoring trade. >
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CREATE YOUR FOREVER KITCHEN TODAY
H G GREAT HOUSE, GREAT CAR
THE KNOWLEDGE VINTAGE STAR Make: Ford Model: Tudor hot rod (modified) Year: 1928 Engine: 370 cubic inch (6.1-litre) small block Chevrolet V8 with Weiand supercharger MODERN CLASSIC Make: Ford Model: Mustang R-Spec Year: 2020 Engine: 5.0-litre supercharged V8
I love my job, and completing a full interior makeover is really satisfying. During a full custom build I get to use many of the skills I’ve learnt over the years. These include welding, fibreglassing, foam shaping and, most importantly in my trade, pattern making. I also get to work with some amazing leathers and suedes. The garage is my pride and joy. It’s dedicated to my cars, but it’s also where I keep my collection of vintage sewing machines. My most prized model is a 1957 Singer that Sean had custom-painted and gave to me for Christmas in 2017. What are the benefits of living in Bargo? The nature of my work means that I can work from home. And Bargo is idyllic! We enjoy a semi-rural lifestyle but we’re only an hour’s drive from Sydney and 30 minutes from the beaches around Wollongong. The Nattai National Park is just a stone’s throw away too. Who inspires you? I always looked up to my dad and tried to follow in his footsteps. He taught me to always put in 110 per cent effort, in every area of my life. I draw so much inspiration from fellow motor trimmers around the world too. Social media has made it so easy for # us to connect and develop new ideas in our industry. @EliseElliott_Media; @OG.customs.upholstery For expert motoring advice go to whichcar.com.au.
TOP LEFT Kira and Dallas take the 1940 DeSoto for a spin. TOP RIGHT The 1928 Ford Model A Tudor hot rod built by Kira’s father. RIGHT An antique pedal-powered Singer sewing machine. “This one is for display only,” says Kira, laughing. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
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Oasis Sofa / Chaise
Teal Recliner Chair
Hou se s Photograph by Anson Smart.
One hundred years after it was built, this Sydney house has been refurbished into a luxurious, contemporary home where the interiors make the most of all the original features. Turn the page to take a tour.
STEP INSIDE SEVEN GORGEOUS AND DIVERSE HOMES
H G houses
Pump up the GL A M
FAMILY ROOM The fireplace was shifted to the centre of the room to
allow for feature wall panelling. Custom sofas and occasional chair, all by Atelier Furniture. Cushions, Interiors Soft Furnishings. Rug, Behruz Studio. Custom coffee table and credenza, Renaissance Conservation. Chandelier and wall sconces, Shades of Light. Artworks by John Olsen (above fireplace) and Charles Blackman (above credenza).
With the renovation completed just prior to lockdown commencing, the owners of this Sydney property have enjoyed spending time at home more than most. STO RY Stephanie Hope | ST Y LI N G Jase Sullivan/Conley & Co & Millard Design Studio P H OTOG R A P HY Anson Smart
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SOPHISTICATED TAILORED ELEMENTS LET THE ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS SHINE.
houses H G DINING This page and opposite bottom left Shiro Noda
chandelier, John-Richard. Custom table and chairs, Renaissance Conservation. Drinks trolley, Pottery Barn. Visual Comfort & Co ‘Lotus’ floor lamp, Laura Kincade. Mirror from Mecox Gardens in LA. FORMAL LIVING Opposite, top and bottom right Custom sofa and armchairs, Atelier Furniture. Lumina rug, Behruz Studio. Custom coffee table by Ferro Artistico with marble top from Euro Marble. Side tables, Max Sparrow. Pendant light, Restoration Hardware. Visual Comfort & Co ‘Cannes’ table lamps, Laura Kincade. Artworks, Fox Jensen Gallery. >
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H G houses
“IT’S THE COMBINATION OF DECORATIVE AND ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS THAT MAKE THE HOME FEEL COMPLETE.” Trudy Millard, interior designer
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t the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, one lucky family of four found solace in this elegant two-storey haven in Sydney’s east. “We scrambled to move them in prior to the initial lockdown period, as we didn’t know when those rules would lift,” says Trudy Millard,theinteriordesignerentrustedwith the home’s renovation. “I know the teenagers appreciated being in their new rooms when they had to homeschool too.” The owners bought the circa-1920 house in mid 2018. “We loved its layout and character, but it was in need of an update,” says the owner. “The scope of works initially included a new kitchen, redesigning the bathrooms and new joinery, but we soon realised that we would need to invest in the details to truly achieve our vision.” The couple’s brief was for a luxurious, understated home filled with functional, intimate and meticulously designed spaces. “The house had beautiful bones and was in great condition, but we wanted to strip back all the later additions to make the most of the original details,” says Trudy. Starting from the ground floor and working upwards, Trudy redesigned almost every space to better meet the family’s needs. The front door opens to a grand foyer with dramatic staircase. Immediately to the left is an open-plan space that is divided into formal dining and living areas. Under the stairs, a powder room was repurposed as wine storage and a new powder room created closer to >
KITCHEN Joinery by Kelmscott Joinery and Jamberoo
Joinery. Door hardware, Mother of Pearl & Sons Trading. Calacatta Extra benchtop and splashback, Victorian Stone Gallery. Perrin & Rowe tapware, The English Tapware Company. Vaughan ‘Lincoln Globe’ lanterns, Domus Textiles. Artwork by unknown artist.
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MAIN BEDROOM This page Khroma wallpaper in
Naxos Smoke, Ascraft. Custom headboard by Atelier Furniture in Decortex ‘Perseo’ fabric. Custom side tables, Harts Antiques. Table lamps, Conley & Co. Chandelier, Shades of Light. Chair (this page) and dresser, both Laura Kincade. Armchair (opposite), vase and artwork by Simafra, all Conley & Co. STAIRWELL Raba Eterno flooring, Tongue N Groove Flooring. Custom table, Renaissance Conservation. Guaxs ‘Cubistic’ vase, Conley & Co. Carlyle chandelier, Paul Ferrante. Artwork by Robert Dickerson.
THE PALET TE
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
Dulux Lexicon Quarter (interior main walls)
Resene Triple Seafog
Dulux Milton Moon
H G houses the communal areas. The remainder of the ground floor is given over to the kitchen and casual living/dining. The kitchen was reconfigured with the family’s love of entertaining in mind. There’s a generous central island, abundant storage within all-white joinery and a hidden butler’s pantry, complete with chandelier. “The dirty work is done in the butler’s pantry so the owners can simply close the door on any prep mess, keeping the kitchen clean and presentable for guests,” says Trudy. Upstairs, all three bedrooms were refreshed, with the main bedroom suite receiving the most significant changes. “It was a huge room, but difficult to furnish due to the placementofthedoorandwindows,”Trudysays.Hersolution was to steal space from one side of the room to create a dressing room and donate more space to the ensuite on the other side, reducing the footprint of the bedroom but maximising the functionality of the suite. “I know a large bedroom feels grand to a lot of people, but I prefer a cosier room furnished with statement pieces,” she says. The design team was ever-mindful of the home’s architectural era, including elements such as wallpaper, handpainted joinery, and dark timber flooring that were common at the time. Touches of marble throughout turn up the luxe too. “The tradies were a bit surprised by the choice of polished marble, as a honed finish is the more usual preference,” says Trudy. “The polished surface has a jewel-like effect and, I think, adds to the glamour overall.” Lighting differs from room to room, each piece sourced to complement the textiles and mood of the space. Ornate archways, traditional wall panelling and intricate ceiling roses are all new but pertinent additions. The colour scheme –blue,whiteandnavy–providesanelegantbackdrop against which these architectural elements can shine. This attention to detail has certainly been well received by the owners. “The joinery was especially important,” says the owner. “I love the fact that it was handpainted by a passionate and highly experienced craftsman. Each piece is purpose-designed and made.” Outside, the gardens were designed to bring multiple levels of joy for the family. There’s an expansive lawn, pool area, established gardens and separate covered sitting and dining areas to make use of according to the season. “My father was a keen gardener and gained much joy from giving my mother flowers from the garden. I wanted a version of that for my family,” says the owner. “The outdoor living area is a really lovely space to sit and enjoy a family breakfast or cocktails in the evening, protected from the elements,” adds Trudy. Although there are less restrictions on movement now, this family prefers spending time at home. Fair enough – with a house like this, who needs to go out? > Millard Design Studio, Surry Hills, NSW; (02) 9690 0548 or millarddesignstudio.com.
MAIN ENSUITE This page Custom floor tiles
and benchtop, Marble Mosaics. Devon&Devon bath and Brodware ‘Winslow’ tapware, Candana. Porta Romana pendant light, South Pacific Fabrics. DAUGHTER’S ROOM Hooked On Walls ‘Exotique’ wallpaper, Unique Fabrics. Bed and nightstand, Restoration Hardware. Chandelier, Shades of Light. Table lamp and artwork, Conley & Co. Carpet, Premier Carpets. MAIN BATHROOM Opposite Mirror, Shine Mirrors. Vanity, Kelmscott Joinery and Jamberoo Joinery. Brodware ‘Winslow’ tapware, Candana. Pendant light, Interiors Online. Guaxs ‘Kahulu’ vase, Conley & Co.
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THIS IS THE LIFE
The close-knit family that lives here wanted a home that would accommodate frequent entertaining, while recognising each occupant’s need for alone time. “We wanted to be able to drive in, close the gates and feel cloistered in a tranquil private space.” In response, Trudy created a number of indoor and outdoor zones that can serve a variety of purposes, from small soirees to larger social gatherings and places to pause for quiet contemplation.
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HOUSES H G GARDEN “The gardens are enchanting and a key
feature of the house,” says the owner. “We built on what was already there, planting different varieties of white flowers, such as white hydrangeas under a white myrtle tree and several varieties of gardenias.” OUTDOOR LIVING Fine Art Lamps ‘Oxfordshire’ outdoor lantern, Laura Kincade. Curtains in Westbury Textiles ‘Nassau’ fabric, Interiors Soft Furnishings. Custom coffee table by Ferro Artistico and stone top by Euro Marble. Klismos lounge setting, Restoration Hardware. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #
THE LAYOUT Pool
Ground f loor
Formal living
Family Dining
Bath
Kitchen
Butler’s pantry
Alfresco dining
Bed
Conservatory Conservatory mezzanine
Bath
Bed Bath
Formal dining Entry
Dressing
Retreat
Kitchen
First f loor
Study
Bed
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Breathe EASY
For the owners of this 1930s Queenslander, enclosing the under-used undercroft delivered double the happiness. STO RY Stephen Crafti P HOTOG R A P H Y Christopher Frederick Jones
REAR EXTERIOR Fixed timber battens lend a striking appearance without impeding airflow. Landscape design by Werner Weis Landscapes.
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“THE BULKHEAD IN THE DINING AREA CREATES A SENSE OF INTIMACY.”
DINING The owners enjoy their
new sun-soaked dining space. The polished-concrete flooring extends part way up the wall to create banquette seating. Seat cushion covered in Verona leather from Instyle. Wall tiles, Complete Tile and Stone. Flowerpot VP1 brass pendant lights, Cult. Floor lamp, West Elm.
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Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
Aaron Peters, architect
ocated about four kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, it’s thought that this Queenslander was built in the early 1930s – so it’s slightly younger than most of the Queenslanders in the city. Whenthehomeowners,acouplewithtwoyoung children, purchased the house in 2016, it had alreadybeenelevatedafulllevelabovetheground to give the main living areas more breathing space. In doing so, an undercroft had been created which, for these owners, presented the perfect opportunity to create additional room for family living and entertaining. “The undercroft was completely open, allowing you to see directly through to the back garden,” says architect Aaron Peters, director of Vokes and Peters, who worked closely on
this project with his colleagues Stuart Vokes and Emma Robinson, alongside interior designer Georgia Cannon. The Vokes and Peters team came up with a plan to enclose part of the frontage with a stained timber-battened door for a double garage and to remodel the front staircase. The home’s distinctive bay window was preserved, along with the timber strapping on the pitched facade. The first floor had been renovated in the late 1980s by former owners. Unfortunately, the house wasn’t well connectedtoitsnorth-facingbackyard,andthelayoutoverall was rather awkward – all the bedrooms ran directly off an open-plan kitchen and living areas. “The garden, and access to it, is an important feature in many of the homes we design,” says Aaron. “You can break this down to the >
THE PALET TE
Gloss White ceramic tiles (dining area)
Dulux Whisper White (exterior and interior, throughout)
Omega Black quartzite (island bench)
actual physical connection but the visual amenity a lush garden provides is equally important.” Although this Queenslander appears largely original from the street, the northern elevation is crisp and contemporary, with fixed timber-battened screens taking the heat load from the generous glazing on both levels. “InBrisbane, it’s imperative to make sure houses‘breathe’, particularly after showers arrive and the humidity lessens,” says Aaron, who included large sliding doors on both levels to maximise cross-ventilation. Because there is a slight fall across the site (about half a metre from front to back), the design team used a change of level on the ground floor to define the living area and visually separate it from the openplan kitchen and dining zone. A concrete fireplace between the two areas provides a further division while still allowing for unimpeded sightlines into the back garden. Designed with a young family in mind, the kitchen is sleek yet robust. Laminate joinery and a stone island bench complement the polished-concrete floors in the kitchen >
KITCHEN A black Astra Walker mixer tap punctuates
the island bench in Omega Black quartzite from SNB Stone. The cabinets and drawer fronts are Laminex Lamiwood in Black. Splashback, Jeld-Wen. DINING Opposite, top left and right Babanees dining table, Green Cathedral. Flowerpot VP1 pendant lights, Cult. LIVING Opposite, bottom A Jetmaster ‘Kemlan Super Nova’ firebox is set into the concrete fireplace surround. The Parker chair (left) is a vintage find. Nook sofa, Jardan.
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THIS IS THE LIFE
In subtropical Brisbane, one of the coolest parts of the home is often beneath the floor. In this Queenslander, the living areas now take advantage of the lower space’s pleasing temperatures. And while it was previously dark and stuffy, the renovated lower-ground floor now enjoys plenty of natural light and has good cross-ventilation, allowing the family to also make the most of the back garden, which had been underutilised.
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and dining areas. On the first floor, the layout was reworked to create four bedrooms, the main with its own sitting area and ensuite, plus a shared bathroom for the children. Therewasalsosufficientroomtoaccommodateahomeoffice. Again mindful of the needs of the children, the architects opted for robust, low-maintenance materials, such as the blackandgreytilesandAmerican-oakjoineryinthebathroom. For the interiors, Georgia responded to the owners’ brief for a functional yet “not overly flashy” home. So along with some key pieces, such as 1960s armchairs the owners had collected over years, a few new items (like the bed in the main bedroom) were sourced from Brisbane firm Mast Furniture. “We customised the bed to ensure it didn’t cut into the frame of the window or obstruct any view,” says Georgia. Other items, such as Verner Panton’s Flowerpot pendant lights from the late 1960s, are used in the kitchen and dining area, adding to the casual ambience. “We had a succinct brief,” says Aaron. “We were asked to include four bedrooms, but beyond that we had a pretty free hand to create a relaxed home the owners could enjoy.” # Vokes and Peters, West End, Queensland; vokesandpeters. com. Werner Weis Landscapes, Runaway Bay, Queensland; wernerweislandscapes.com. Georgia Cannon, Sydney, NSW; georgiacannon.com.
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THE LAYOUT FACADE Black timber-batten
First floor
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
Bath
doors open to a double garage. The entryway’s stairs were redesigned. MAIN BEDROOM The JR Rufenacht chair and ottoman were lucky secondhand finds. Mast Furniture made the bed to fit perfectly into this spot. George Nelson pendant, Living Edge. ENSUITE Tapware, Astra Walker. Black tiles, Metro Tiles.
Bath
Office Playroom
Bed Bed
Sitting
Bed
Bed
Ground floor
Dining
Kitchen
Living
Scullery
Store
Garage
WORLDLY DESIRES
Design writer Stephen Crafti opens the door to his own home, where French inspiration is interpreted in a perfectly Melbourne manner. P H OTO G R A P HY Nicole England
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REAR COURTYARD This page
A zigzag arrangement of fixed fluted-glass panels encloses the courtyard, which is oriented to the north. Outdoor chair is by Droog. FRONT ENTRANCE Opposite The home’s entry is framed by Boston ivy and purple-flowering rhododendron. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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elbourne is often described as Australia’s most cosmopolitan city. So it’s perhaps unsurprising that when architect Robert Simeoni presented this house – my own, in an inner suburb – at the prestigious World Architecture Festival awards in 2019, the judges’ consensus was that it could easily be located in any European city. The inspiration for the design was Pierre Chareau’s La Maison de Verre in Paris. Completed in 1932, La Maison de Verre – a threestorey glass and metal warehouse conversion – is worlds apart, both in distance and budget, from this home. From the outset, my partner Naomi and I never really thought there was much chance of emulating such a design icon. What we began with was a simple two-storey duplex, built between the wars, that we intended to convert into a single dwelling. Each apartment had virtually identical floor plans comprising a separate living room, two bedrooms and a rudimentary bathroom and kitchen. A rickety timber staircase at the rear led to a pocket-sized stretch of concrete. When we purchased the building almost 11 years ago, even speaking of La Maison de Verre and our house in the same sentence would have been ludicrous. It had a few redeeming features, though: decorative ceilings, chunky walls, wide skirting boards and timber floors (even if they were concealed beneath beer-stained carpets). >
KITCHEN/DINING This page
and opposite top Architect Robert
Simeoni (left) with owner Stephen Crafti. Photography on kitchen wall by Robyn Beeche. Bosch appliances, E&S. Dining table, Hub Furniture. Philippe Starck dining chairs, Space. The bowl on the dining table is by Simon Lloyd. Antique glass planter. Kettle by Michael Graves. SITTING ROOM Surfaces and Doubles painting on the left side of the room by Jennifer Jackson. Smock Chair by Patricia Urquiola (on left), Hub Furniture. Orange ottoman, Schamburg+Alvisse. Japanesestyle office chairs have been reupholstered with Suzie Stanford tapestries. The Last Vestige (on right) by Lindy Lee.
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THIS IS THE LIFE
Boston ivy covers the exterior, allowing the house to virtually disappear into the street. I love feeling connected to the garden whether I am inside or out. The ivy creates a thermal blanket that works particularly well during the warmer months. In autumn, its leaves turn bright red, giving the place an entirely different feel. Other plants we’ve grown, such as our three varieties of magnolia, also help give the house its European feel.
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H G houses THE PALET TE Haymes Paint Enigma (kitchen, sitting room)
LIVING ROOM Harvey the Canadian
mountain cat sits on a 1970s ottoman covered in a houndstooth fabric from Stylecraft. The timber screen was made from 1930s bevelled-glass doors salvaged from a home that was being demolished. Vintage Schamburg+Alvisse table with marble top. Sculpture by Paul Woods. Antique floor lamp, Leonard Joel. Crystal side table, Mondopiero. Fringed ottomans, armchairs and crystal lights, all by Suzie Stanford. The tapestry art above the built-in cupboard was originally a cushion made by Naomi’s grandmother in the 1920s and framed. Rug, Ikea.
Haymes Paint Gallery White (main walls)
Porter’s Paints Deep Forest Green
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
At our first client meeting a desire to include glass bricks, a key feature of Chareau’s design, was discussed (we didn’t end up using them). The conversation also covered the idea of putting in a ‘non-kitchen’ – that is, a kitchen for someone who doesn’t like to cook. Two of the upstairs rooms were to become separate dressing areas, a luxury for a couple of emptynesters who treat their pampered feline, Harvey, as if he were the true homeowner. We were keen to imbue the original house with a more sumptuous and layered feel, creatingasenseofthe1930sbutcontemporisingthedesign.“Ithoughtitwasimportant to create an extension that resonated with, rather than mimicked, the building’s 1930s heritage,” says Robert. So instead of treating the original part of the home as a lesser entity than the proposed new extension, which comprised a kitchen and dining area, Robert embraced the home’s original fabric and its imperfections. Every move made in this highly bespoke design was carefully considered – from the brownish-black D-tiles in the two bathrooms to the glass tiles sourced from Belgium for the fireplace hearth, in what is now the living area. >
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H G houses THE LAYOUT Bath Courtyard
Study
Office
Dressing
Kitchen
Bath Entry
Bed
Dining Transition
Laundry
Living
Dressing Ground floor
First floor
In contrast to the original thick-masonry walls, Robert conceived a steel-and-glass double-heightextensionwithafixedconcertinaedglasswallallowingdiffusednorthern light to enter. And, unlike the typical Aussie extension with large clear-glass doors openingouttoabackyard,herethereistranslucentglass–andjustasliverofclearglass. This is to allow a view out to the garden only when one is seated at the dining table. A ‘floating’ concrete bench in the kitchen has been teamed with steel open shelving and a polished concrete floor. As with all great architecture, there was an element of surprise that wasn’t fully appreciated when the initial schematics were revealed. For example, a high window allows natural light to create a beautiful painterly effect on the white wall above the kitchen joinery. The generous jury citation for the Australian Institute of Architects’ national award included the statement that “being inside is rather like inhabiting a late Rothko painting, where the eyes adjust to participate in a slow reveal of dark tonalities and subdued textures”. We’d picked out three different blacks for our painter to use on the walls and joinery in the kitchen and adjacent library. This is a home filled with furniture and objects collected over decades. Lighting and furniture designer Suzie Stanford has also added her own unique ‘brushstrokes’, with her rich tapestry furniture (Chareau coincidently designed tapestry chairs for his masterpiece) and crystal pendants and wall sconces conceived as art as much as illumination. This crystal is of the type that would have been given as wedding gifts when the duplex was built. This house is no longer the worst house in the street – far fromit–eventhoughfromthefrontitstillappearsquiteoriginal.Andwhilecomparisons can be made to Milan or Paris, our home is Melbourne through and through. # Robert Simeoni Architects, Carlton, Victoria; (03) 9347 4411 or robertsimeoniarchitects.com.
“I WANTED TO PROVIDE A SIMILARLY SOFT LIGHT, SO THE OLD AND NEW PARTS OF THE HOME WOULD BLUR.” Robert Simeoni, architect
BATHROOM The upstairs bathroom
features D tiles from Mondopiero.
MAIN BEDROOM Above right and
opposite Crystal lights by Suzie Stanford accentuate the room’s high ceilings. Gordon Andrews side bedside tables, FY2K. Curtains, Boyac. A 1950s armchair reupholstered in men’s suiting fabric by Suzie Stanford is positioned by a 1930s armoire to create a sitting area in the bedroom. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
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Rising star Revelling in its glorious setting, the metamorphosis of this coastal Sydney home is a joy to behold. STO RY Jackie Brygel | P H OTOG R A P HY Tom Ferguson
houses H G
ROOF TERRACE Three of the
home’s four bedrooms have direct access to the rooftop terrace, which was landscaped by Conzept Landscape Architects. The shutters are made from Fijian mahogany. Duell wall light, Modular Lighting. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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he design is as brave as it is beautiful. Yet it’s the tangible feeling of tranquillity that truly defines Kristy and Mark Jones’remarkablyrebornhome onSydney’sNorthernBeaches. The couple – parents to Molly, 13, Koby, 11, and Chilli, four – says the sense of serenity is palpable right from the front door. “We call it our retreat,” says Kristy, with a smile. “It’s certainly a very calm house.” Perched high on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this is also a strikingly robust and modern hideaway, one that pays homage to its sublime coastal setting. Built in the late 1970s, the brick-veneer home was in largely original condition when Kristy and Mark found it in 2015. Dressed entirely in varying shades of brown, the existing two-storey, four-bedroom house presented as dark and poky, and it felt disconnected from its surroundings. “The house was really just one big rectangle and very dated,” says Kristy. But then they looked at the big picture. “The aspect and the 980-square-metre block were enormously appealing. The backyard is north-facing, with the ocean to the north-east, so you get the most beautiful sunrises,” she adds. “Even though the house itself wasn’t to our taste, weknewwecouldlivetherequitecomfortably while we planned the renovation.” The couple realised extensive works were needed to make it their forever home, and engaged architect Adam Brewer to make >
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KITCHEN/DINING Pendant lights, Les Interieurs. The dining table and bench seats are made from repurposed window frames. Malawi
chairs, Amara. Talostone benchtops and splashback in Calacatta Luxe Matt. Kitchen joinery by Braeside Joinery, finished in Dulux Lexicon Quarter. Sliding doors, Stockwells Joinery. Engineered-timber flooring, Woodcut. REAR ELEVATION The kitchen/dining and adjacent living spaces wrap around an expanse of lawn and the pool area, creating the feeling of being at one with the landscape. The main bedroom is cantilevered over the alfresco dining and barbecue terrace. Landscaping by Conzept Landscape Architects.
Bath
Kitchen Dining
Living
Lawn
Bath
Pantry
Office Entry Family
Laundry
THE LAYOUT
Garage
Bed Bath
Ground floor
KITCHEN This page and opposite top The sinuous
island bench features custom-routed cladding. Talostone benchtops and splashback in Calacatta Luxe Matt. Tapware, Sydney Tap & Bathroomware. Open shelving in whitewashed American oak. Kitchen joinery by Braeside Joinery, finished in Dulux Lexicon Quarter. Ovens, Miele. LIVING Whitewashed American oak joinery, Braeside Joinery. Cowhide rug, Cowhides Direct. Plant pots, The Pot Warehouse.
Roof terrace
Bed
Bath
Pool
Bed
First floor
Bed
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“BRINGING MORE NATURAL LIGHT INTO THE HOUSE WAS A MUST.” Adam Brewer, architect
ithappen.“Theexistinghouselackedlight and felt very tired but there was definitely plenty of potential,” he recalls. Kristy, Mark and the design team toyed with the idea of demolishing the ageing house in its entirety, but quickly dismissed this approach as unnecessary. “By retaining the existing structure, we were able to have the home slightly closer to the boundary than new regulations allow,” says Adam. “We decided to keep the street frontage, making the most significant alterations at the rear, where the best views are.” In September 2018, two-and-a-half years after the process began, the family movedinto anearby rental home as onsite worksfinallycommenced,withWaterview Constructions overseeing the build. Twelve months later, Kristy and Mark’s dreamfortheirforeverhomewasrealised. The layout of the two-storey home is designed to optimise views from every angle. The main entrance is via a lightfilled foyer on the ground floor that gives way to a generous living room, which acts as the pivot point on this level. Arranged in an L-shape around the living room are a family/guestroom, an office, the laundry and the glass-walled kitchen/dining space that leads to the barbecue area and terraced garden. The cherry on top of the spectacular ground floor is the glistening infinity pool,
which delivers additional water views for the rooms at the rear of the ground floor. “The pool is definitely a standout feature,” says Adam. “The spaces at the rear of the ground floor, including the barbecue area and lawn, are deliberately arranged so that they work in tandem with the pool. Theyaredesignedtoflow seamlessly from one to the other.” On the first floor, the family’s private domain, there are four tranquil bedrooms (two with ensuite), a family bathroom and a rooftop garden terrace that can be accessed directly by three of the four bedrooms. “When the rooftop garden is more established, the bedrooms will feel integrated with it as well,” says Adam.
In Kristy and Mark’s main bedroom suite, glass spans the full height and widthoftheroom,maximisingenjoyment of the jaw-dropping vista. “It was importantthatthedesignreallyembraced the view,” says Adam. “We included operable exterior shutters for shade and privacy when needed. They deliver a textural element too.” Unusually, the ensuite is contained in a glass-walled pod near the entrance of the suite. The practical galley-style layout saves precious floor space; the glass pod allows free movement of light through the bedroom suite. The home’s two levels are unified by a palette of crisp white, cool greys, > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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“IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT THE DESIGN OF THE HOME REALLY EMBRACED THE SPECTACULAR OUTLOOK.” Adam Brewer, architect
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MAIN BEDROOM Below Bedlinen, Bed Threads. Cushions, Sea Tribe. MOLLY’S ROOM Opposite top Joinery, Braeside Joinery. Newbury desk chair, Officeworks. Throw, Adairs. Chatsworth Sir William carpet, Hycraft Carpets. FAMILY BATHROOM Dito
mosaic tiles and Aggregate II floor tiles, Skheme. Niche clad in Talostone Calacatta Luxe. Vetralla 2 bath, Victoria+Albert. Astra Walker ‘Icon’ tapware in Eco Brass finish, Sydney Tap & Bathroomware. Yana hanging basket, Gro Urban Oasis. >
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THE PALET TE
Dulux Shimmer Quarter
Dulux Flooded Gum
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
Dulux Lexicon Quarter (throughout)
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MAIN ENSUITE Aggregate II floor
tiles, Skheme. Wall tiles, Exclusive Tiles. Talostone Calacatta Luxe niche. Basin and tapware, Sydney Tap & Bathroomware. Custom ottoman (at dressing table) by Kira & Kira. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite A dressing area behind the bed includes a neat vanity station with built-in mirror and storage for beauty products. Joinery by Braeside Joinery. Artwork by Lucinda Jones Art. Chatsworth Sir William carpet, Hycraft Carpets. >
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“THE LOCATION PROMPTED US TO BUY THE PROPERTY, BUT NOW WE HAVE OUR DREAM LIFESTYLE TOO.” Kristy Jones, owner
whitewashed timber and accents in soft coastal hues. In each room, oversize windows frame garden or water glimpses and allow natural light to flood into the core of the home. There’s plenty of texture too, in the form of naturally tactile finishes such asmarble-lookstonecomposite,rawconcrete and timber. The restrained palette also allows nature to take centrestage. Above all, this is a house designed for relaxed living, and is very much loved and enjoyedbyallmembersofthefamily.“There’s really nothing we would do differently if we had our time again,” says a delighted Kristy. “It was the location and the aspect that prompted us to buy this property, but the home Adam has helped us create here has givenusourdreamlifestyle. We can’t imagine living anywhere else.” # Brewer Architects, Rozelle, NSW; 0413 016 052 or brewerarchitects.com. Waterview Constructions, Newport, NSW; waterviewconstructions.com.au.
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REAR GARDEN The showpiece infinity pool was designed and built by Waterview Constructions. Phyllite pool tiles, ColorTile. Landscaping by Conzept Landscape Architects. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
THIS IS THE LIFE
Undertaking a major renovation with a young family can certainly be stressful, but Kristy and Mark say they have no complaints. “The process went much more smoothly than we anticipated,” says Kristy. The family has now happily settled into a comfortable daily routine in their beautiful home. “It’s not a precious house, which is important with three young kids running around,” says Kristy. “It’s a very easy place to live.”
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FACADE The heritage-protected front of this California bungalow is painted Dulux Lexicon Quarter with trims in Dulux American Mahogany. The slate on the original roof was updated and the roof on the rear extension is Colorbond in Dulux Manor Red to complement it. Built around 1923, the house retains much of its original glazing.
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California dream Tucked behind this heritage home in Sydney is an ingenious extension that serves its owners just perfectly. STO RY Sarah Pickette | ST Y LI N G Anna Delprat | P H OTOGR A PHY Chris Warnes
H G houses here are many benefits to knowing a good architect, and one of them is that you can seek their expert advice ona property beforeyou buy. That’s exactly what Jacqui and Daniel, the owners of this beautiful California bungalow in Sydney’s inner west, did. The couple and their three children – Charlotte, 13, Chiara, 11, and Isaac, seven – were living in a part of Sydney governed by some of the nation’s strictest conservation rules. They wanted to stay in the area, but were on the lookout for a house they could transform into their ideal family home. “Any property they were considering, they’d run past us so we could let them know what the achievable scope of work wouldbe,”saysarchitectEva-MariePrineas, who worked closely on this project with architect Jacqueline Lindeman, her colleague at Studio Prineas. “When this house came up for sale, we said ‘grab it’ because it had a reasonably dramatic level change from the front of the house to the back. We could see that there was >
LIVING The sunken living area features timber-veneer doors that slide over the
shelves to reveal the television. The built-in sofa was made by Atelier Furniture using Rino Mastrotto ‘Antico’ leather in Terrone from Decor Design Centre. Coffee table and Nelly table lamp, both Jardan. Woodnotes rug, Anibou.
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DINING Hoffman chairs by
Thonet surround a Winter dining table from Jardan. A pair of Vitra ‘Akari 75A’ pendant lights define the space. KITCHEN Opposite Jacqui with her son Isaac and daughter Chiara. The island bench is made with Valencia marble from Euro Marble and has a burgundy inset. Osso stools, District. White oak crown-cut timber-veneer and rattan joinery by Finch Projects. Inax ‘Patina’ brick-look porcelain tiles on floor and skirting, Artedomus.
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houses H G potential to tuck a new addition in behind the existing house.” Rather than simply meeting the heritagerequirements,theStudioPrineas team embraced them wholeheartedly. “We took the Manor Red colour from the roof and used tonal variations of it right through the house.” The palette is warm and playful, flowing through the decorative brickwork, the kitchen island and even the grout in the bathrooms. The home’s interiors might have been outdated when Jacqui and Daniel bought it in early 2019, but the building itself was in good condition. Inside, spaces were
simply remodelled to work better for the family.Fromthefrontdoor,abroadhallway leads to the main bedroom suite, Isaac’s room, a formal living room, the girls’ bedrooms and a retreat for the children. A set of stairs connects these spaces to the new, lower section of the house (also accessible from the garage), which contains the kitchen, dining zone and a sunken living area. The kitchen is a masterful mix of brick-look tiles on the floor and skirting, and handleless timberveneer cabinetry with rattan insets that cleverly disguise the airconditioning vents. Star of the space, though, is the
island bench with its red-veined Valencia marble a perfect match for the home’s palette. The dining area is punctuated by a pair of Vitra ‘Akari 75A’ pendant lights and a skylight set off-centre so as to provide a softer, more diffused light. This space flows on to the spectacular sunken living room. It’s been carefully lowered so as to create a visual connection with the waterline of the pool. “Because of the nature of this space, it made sense to build in the sofa,” says Eva-Marie. Decorative brickwork features once again and is neatly complemented by the lines in the rug used in this room. >
“I LOVE THE KITCHEN’S MARBLE AND HOW IT FITS WITH THE WARM, NEUTRAL AESTHETIC OF OUR HOME.” Jacqui, owner
H G houses THE PALET TE Dulux American Mahogany (exterior trim)
Dulux Lexicon Quarter (interior walls)
Daniel and Jacqui wanted a good stretch of lawn for the kids to play on and a generous swimming pool. “Looking at the available space we had, our solution was to connectthe pooltothehouse,” says EvaMarie. “The pool house at the end of the gardenactsasakind ofexclamationpoint as you look out to it.” With its covered barbecueandbuilt-indaybed,thisisaspace that’sashardworkingasitisgreatlooking. The renovation work was complete just before Christmas in 2019 and the family were able to enjoy their first summer with a pool of their own. “Eva-Marie was great to work with,” says Jacqui. “She came to us with ideas and suggestions, but she took our input onboard. There was always the right balance between inspiration and practicalityand,asaresult,wehaveahome that we are beyond pleased with.” > Studio Prineas, Rushcutters Bay, NSW; studioprineas.com.au. Carrington Building, St Peters, NSW; carringtonbuilding.com.
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Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
Dulux Manor Red (new roof)
THIS IS THE LIFE
Jacqui and Daniel were already living in this suburb, and their kids were settled in school locally, when they decided to look for a house they could renovate to become their forever home. “During the lockdown in 2020, we all spent a lot of time working and studying at home,” says Jacqui. “We feel very lucky to have a house with lots of space and design details that we love. It has clear, separate zones, but it feels connected and warm at the same time.”
FAMILY BATHROOM Ardex grout in Mocha enlivens the white mosaics from Better Tiles and picks up on tones in the Momentti terrazzo tiles from Onsite Supply+Design. Vola tapware and Towel rails in Mocca special finish. MAIN BEDROOM Opposite top Curtains in
Mokum ‘Satori’ and Warwick Fabrics ‘Utopia’ made by Paddington Shutters & Blinds. Finley bed, Jardan. Bed-end bench, Great Dane. STUDY Opposite bottom Daniel’s study has a desktop in Forbo Flooring Systems’ linoleum in Burgundy. Eames office chair, Living Edge.
H G houses “A POOL WAS HIGH ON OUR WISH LIST. IT’S INTEGRATED SO WELL WITH THE HOUSE.” Jacqui
POOL & POOL HOUSE Above and opposite top A pool custom-designed by Studio Prineas extends out from the new section of the house. Ironbark from Kennedy’s Timber has been used for the deck and the pool house, which has a Colorbond roof in Dulux Manor Red to match the roof on the extension. Jak & Jil outdoor table and chairs in Intensity Desert from Tait. GARDEN Opposite bottom Fermob outdoor chairs and table, Design Nation. Bolster cushions, Jardan. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #
Laundry Pantry Kitchen Barbecue Mud room
Store
Garage
Living
Bath Sitting Kids’ living
Dining
Bed Pool
Lower ground floor
Bed
Bath
THE LAYOUT
Pool house
Bed
Bed
Ground floor
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NAT U R A L LY WON DER F U L
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Embracing the tones and textures of the surrounding landscape, this beachside home is anything but predictable. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y L I N G Nerida Thorburn | P H OTOGR A PHY Simon Whitbread
KITCHEN/DINING Interior designer Nerida Thorburn at
the dining banquette. Dining chairs, Fenton & Fenton. Custom dining table by Hendrix the Maker. Ay Illuminate ‘Z1’ pendant light, SmithMade. Joinery by Loughlin Furniture. Timber cabinetry in American oak veneer; remaining joinery painted Dulux Haast Half. Cabinetry hardware, MadeMeasure. Splashback tiles, Skheme. Porcelain benchtops in Ars Beige, Earp Bros. Filtered-water tap, Billi. Mixer tap and sink, Abey. Stove, Ilve. Nalani stools, Inartisan. Luca crazy paving, Eco Outdoor.
he NSW South Coast is outlined by continuous crescents of golden sand. CulburraBeach,twoandahalfhours’drive south of Sydney, is a particularly special arc on the map. The quiet township is located on its own peninsula, bordered by two surf beaches, a river and a lake. With nature on its doorstep, a relaxed village community and a lack of fast-food outlets or traffic lights, it’s a little patch of laidback paradise. And it’s where Sydneysiders Peta and Glenn escape to whenever they can, along with their children Callum, 20, and Nina, 14. The couple first visited Culburra several years ago when they stayed with friends who owned a holiday >
LIVING The fire surround is a mix of Mitta Mitta and Alpine stone cladding from Eco Outdoor. Custom sofa, Fanuli. Dania occasional chairs, Satara. Coffee tables, MCM House. Drop light, Inartisan. Escea fireplace, Abbey Fireplaces. Blinds, Blinds by Peter Meyer, installed by Marlow & Finch. Doors and windows, Stegbar. Rug, Dash & Albert. Walls and ceiling painted Dulux Lexicon Quarter.
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Peta and Glenn love how their home combines the comfort of a luxe resort with barefoot casualness. “We want it to be a place where our children can bring their friends, and where people feel free to put their feet up on the coffee tables,” says Peta. The deck stretches the width of the house, stepping down to lawn, leading through bush to the sand. There are no fences, so the property feels truly open to the elements. Perfect for this family of beachgoers.
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MAIN BEDROOM House of Hackney ‘Palmeral’ wallpaper,
Radford. Aren canopy bed, Inartisan. Wall lights, Lighting Collective. Felix bedside tables, MRD Home. HALL Casamance ‘Shinok’ wallpaper. Joinery painted Dulux Lexicon Quarter. Leather cabinet handles, MadeMeasure. MAIN ENSUITE Above right and opposite Overgrouted limestone wall tiles, Barefoot Living. Klaylife ‘SpongeOh’ pendant light. Custom vanity unit and mirror, Loughlin Furniture. Pietra Bianca bath and Gareth Ashton ‘Lucia’ tapware, all Cass Brothers. Jericho limestone floor tiles, Eco Outdoor. V-groove joinery painted Dulux Lexicon Quarter.
home there. They fell in love with the coastal town, returning as often as possible. Four years ago, they bought their own place: a 1000-square-metre block backing onto protected coastal bush. Set behind sand dunes, the property is a frisbee-throw from the beach, with a path out the back leading directly onto the sand. Peta and Glenn thought about renovating the existing fibro cottage, but soon realised it would be more cost-effective to demolish it and rebuild. The couple enlisted a local design and construction firm, Designer Digs, and began shaping their beach home. They also engaged Sydney interior design company, Your Beautiful Home, to help finesse the layout and devise the look, feel and finishes for the interiors. “I wanted something timeless and homely but with a bit of a luxe-resort feel,” says Peta. “Most importantly, it needed to be family- and pet-friendly.” The new house is a modern take on the classic weatherboard coastal cottage. Single storey with a multi-pitched roof, it’s clad in James Hardie Linea boardspaintedDuluxMiltonMoon,asoft,misty-ocean grey. The design incorporates four bedrooms, three bathrooms plus a powder room, a breezeway at the front entrance, an internal courtyard (providing outdoor space that is sheltered from off-shore winds) and lots of sliding windows and doors to help blur the lines between inside and out. All of which translates into a light-filled home that is open to the landscape. >
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THE LAYOUT Courtyard Kitchen
Carport
Dining Entry
Bed
Bath
Living Bed
Bed
Bath
Bed
Bath
Bath
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THE PALET TE Dulux Haast Half (kitchen joinery)
Dulux Milton Moon (exterior cladding)
Dulux Five Fingers Peninsula (front door)
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NINA’S ROOM This image Lizzo ‘Cesto’ wallpaper, Westbury
Textiles. Klaylife ‘Calo’ pendant lights. Aloha bed, Naturally Cane. FAMILY BATHROOM Custom vanity by Loughlin Furniture. Jericho limestone cobblestones and pavers, all Eco Outdoor. Tapware, Abey. Toilet, Parisi. GUESTROOM Opposite La Palma wallpaper, Mokum. Monterey wall light, Fat Shack Vintage. Bedhead, Fenton & Fenton. Hadi stool, Inartisan. Amendo engineered-oak flooring, Havwoods International. > NERIDA THORBURN, INTERIOR DESIGNER
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
“ I T ’ S S O P H I S T I C AT E D B U T D O E S N ’ T TA K E I T S E L F TO O S E R I O U S LY.”
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REAR DECK Top Harper chair, Serengeti sofa and Trunk table, all Uniqwa Collections. Vergola louvred pergola. FRONT ENTRANCE
Artwork by Fiona Chandler. Casamance ‘Carioca’ wallpaper in Vanille, Zepel Fabrics. COURTYARD Sonoma Slat occasional chairs, Globe West. Lava stone stool, Uniqwa Collections. Custom firewood-storage unit by Horizon Landscapes. Roger Pradier Belcour No.9 wall light, Special Lights. Colorbond roofing in Surfmist. Luca crazy paving, Eco Outdoor. OUTDOOR DINING Opposite Barbecue, BeefEater Barbecues. Custom dining table by Hendrix the Maker. Mitta Mitta and Alpine cladding and Barwon dining chairs, all Eco Outdoor. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
While the external views are unquestionably stunning,theinteriorsareequallyatmosphericthanks to Nerida Thorburn, head interior designer at Your Beautiful Home. “Peta was looking for a warm and relaxing retreat but nothing too predictable or too perfect, so I didn’t want to create a typical beach house,” says Nerida. “For me, the rugged rawness of the bush surroundings was just as important as the beach. That’s why it was important to include the timber and stone too.” WhenNeridasuggestedcrazypavingfortheflooring in the open-plan kitchen/dining space, Peta hesitated: “The idea of the stonework challenged me at first, but now it’s the thing I love the most!” she says. Nerida selected Luca crazy paving from Eco Outdoor for this important role, chosen for its grey and sandy tones. “It gives the space a relaxed, playful vibe,” says Nerida. “You might not use it in the city, but it’s perfect for a holiday house and it feels lovely underfoot.” Stonework reappears in the adjacent living room, whereNeridaspecifiedstoneforthefireplacesurround. The cladding extends outdoors to the barbecue area, drawingtheeyeoutsideandblurringthelinesbetween indoors and out. But the most astonishing stone treatmentisinthemainensuitewherethewallsfeature overgrouted limestone tiles (sourced from Barefoot Living), creating the effect of aged sandstone. Pops of deep-sea blue are scattered throughout the house – it is a coastal home, after all, and it is Peta’s favourite colour – but where there is colour, it’s quite subtle or a little surprising, says Nerida. Since Peta didn’t want the house to feel too new or perfect, Nerida minimised the number of plain white walls, opting instead for feature wallpapers ranging from an understated, textural style in the living room to a flamboyant jungle-print design for a bit of playfulness in a guestroom. “The home has such a wonderful feel because it is so layered and tactile,” says Nerida. “It’s sophisticated, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously.” To ensure nothing feels too precious, she has used indoor/outdoor upholstery fabrics and rugs throughout the living spaces. For Peta and Glenn, the home is kick-off-your-shoes perfection. “It feels like being wrapped in a favourite blanket,” says Peta. “When I’m here, any stress I might have just melts away – the whole house has an ease about it. And I love that when friends walk in they feel the same. It feels a bit magical.” # Your Beautiful Home, Balgowlah, NSW; 0416 220 226 or yourbeautifulhome.com.au. Designer Digs, Nowra, NSW; info@designerdigs.com.au.
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Tree of life Light, texture and scene-stealing vistas set a postcard-perfect scene in this stunning Sydney family home. STO RY Jackie Brygel | P H OTOG R A P HY Tom Ferguson
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ENTRANCEE The feature fiddle-leaf figg iss planted in a pot o from The Pot Wa W rehouse. Turkish pot (l(lef e t) from Manyara Home. Avalonn stone n claadding, Surface Gallery. Exterior paint is Dulux Namadji. POOL AREA Plantiing ngs around the pool include a maature frangipani tree, arum lilies and rhapi p s palms. San anndblasted Azul limestone pave v rs, Sareeenn Stone. B&B Italia outdoor dining setting, Space. Colorbond roofing. Pool by Sunrirse Pools. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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ith panoramic ocean views, striking architectural detailing and impeccable interiors, this contemporary home on Sydney’s Lower North Shore is undeniably a showstopper. For its owner Ellen, there’s another star attraction: a magnificent jacaranda at the entrance. “When my husband Matt and I bought the property in 2006, it had an old California bungalow that >
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“IT’S RARE TO FIND SUCH SPACIOUS INTERNAL AREAS ON SITES AS STEEP AS THIS.” Mark Clark, architect KITCHEN/DINING Artwork by Robena. Lotus vessels, Manyara Home. Blanket, Hermès. Dining table, Mark Tuckey. Hay ‘About A Chair’ dining chairs, Cult. Circulon pendant light, Koda Lighting. Honed Azul limestone flooring, Sareen Stone. Kitchen stools, Thonet. Kitchen island topped with Lincoln Calacatta marble from CDK Stone. Sub-zero fridge from Winning Appliances. The custom walk-in cool room to the left of the fridge is by Temp Right. Shüco frameless window system, Capral (throughout).
THIS IS THE LIFE
Ellen and Matt’s house is enhanced by a glorious garden that they refreshed with the help of landscape architect Andrew Leuchars of NBRS Architecture. “The garden is wonderful,” says Ellen. “Andrew helped us with all of the levels and the planting. We now have the most beautiful and healthy frangipanis, as well as a big palm tree. Come spring, the jacaranda is a cloud of purple blooms. It’s just magnificent.”
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had been a local family’s muchloved home for many years,” says Ellen. “Like the previous owners, we adored the house for its position, but also for the jacaranda, which to me is the most beautiful thing about theproperty.Itsoftensthefront of the block and is very special to the whole street.” Littlewonder,then,thatEllen andMatt–parentstoGrace,now 21, Emma, 20, and Will, 16 – expressed a strong desire to retain the tree when they engaged Corben Architects to undertake a major reinvention of the home. “We were very careful to make sure it was preserved,” says Ellen. “The builders did a really good job of that, and the architects did an amazing job of looking after our privacy while opening up the house and looking at how our family live. The living areas are predominantly open-plan now, so we can all come together but also have our own space.” CorbenArchitectswerethenaturalchoicefortheproject astheyhadalreadyplannedarenovationwiththeprevious owners. “We prepared the design drawings and obtained approvalfortheprojectin2005,”saysMarkClark,director ofCorbenArchitects.“EllenandMattfolloweduponthose plans, which we then modified to suit their needs. “The house is set on a steeply sloping 752-square-metre site with expansive views over the bay, but the layout of the bungalow was awkward and there was no direct connection to the outdoors,” Mark adds. “Its rear garden was completely overgrown and the only access was via a narrow set of stairs. Living areas were dark and undersized, and the best views from the home were obtained from a couple of small bedrooms built into the roof space. It required a major overhaul to make it more functional for contemporary family living.” The once-humble bungalow wasn’t just finessed, it has been completely transformed into a luminous, wonderfully liveable sanctuary over four levels. “It’s basically a completely new house,” says Ellen. On the uppermost level – which contains the living/ dining area, kitchen and a family room wrapped around a pool and alfresco zone – maximum enjoyment of
the property’s harbour views has been enabled. The middle level is dedicated to the bedrooms, while the ground floor comprises a TV room, study,guestroomandgym.The garage,generous storageand a wine cellar are located on the lower-groundfloor(streetlevel). Throughout the home, huge picture windows optimise the beautiful sea vistas, bathing the home in rays of sunshine. “There’sawonderfulamountof natural light that makes the home look bright and fresh,” says Mark. “The top floor is the highlight. It’s rare to find a homewithsuchspaciousinternallivingareasandoutdoor entertaining spaces – including the swimming pool – all on one level on sites as steep as this. “Theprojectwasnotwithoutitschallenges,”Markadds. “When you consider that we commenced the project for the previousowners in2005, andfinishedit 11years later, it took many years to come to fruition. But the greatest joy is seeing the completed home.” When it came to the finishes, fixtures and furnishings, Ellen – who has a background in interior design – happily took charge. It proved a joyful task indeed for the mother of three, who drew inspiration from renowned Belgian arcihtect and interior designer Vincent van Duysen.“I was heavily swayed by his work,” says Ellen. “He likes to use a lot of beautiful warm timbers, but also a lot of white.” Certainly, walls painted Dulux Vivid White provide a crisp backdrop for a timeless palette of tactile oak, natural stone and concrete. Stylish but relaxed furnishings – some of which have been in Ellen and Matt’s family for many years – impart a luxe coastal vibe while telling a personal tale. “It was absolutely my privilege to contribute to the creation of something my whole family loves,” says Ellen. “We built this as our very long-term house and we’re certainly in no hurry to leave,” she says with a smile. “It’s been quite a process, but it has all been well worth the time and effort.” > Corben Architects, Neutral Bay, NSW; (02) 9904 1844 or corben.com.au.
STAIRWELL The wall-side balustrade is covered in olive-toned leather, which was meticulously hand-stitched by Bound Interiors. Photograph by Graeme Munro. Engineered-timber flooring, European Timber Floors. LIVING Opposite top Bluette marble coffee table and lotus vessels,
all Manyara Home. Brass stools, Orson & Blake. Minotti ‘Cortina’ armchairs, Dedece. Sofa and ottoman, Jardan. Avalon stone cladding, Surface Gallery. Rug, Robyn Cosgrove. Honed Azul limestone flooring, Sareen Stone. KITCHEN/BUTLER’S PANTRY Opposite, bottom left Benchtops and splashback in Lincoln Calacatta marble, CDK Stone. Butler’s pantry cabinetry in Dulux Terrace White, Sublime Custom Cabinetry. Cooktop and double ovens, Wolf. RECEPTION ROOM Opposite, bottom right Ellen designed the entry table. Sofa, Jardan.
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“WE BUILT THIS AS OUR VERY LONG-TERM HOUSE AND WE’RE CERTAINLY IN NO HURRY TO LEAVE.” Ellen, owner DRESSING ROOM Right Drum tables and custom mirrors,
Sublime Custom Cabinetry. Curtains by Simple Studio (throughout). MAIN BEDROOM Below The bedhead wall is upholstered in Italian silk from Unique Fabrics. Wall and custom bedhead made by Urban Upholstery. Frette bedlinen from David Jones. Throw, Ondene. Black joinery, Sublime Custom Cabinetry. Rug, Whitecliffe Imports. WILL’S BEDROOM Opposite top Diesel for Foscarini ‘Fork’ pendant light. Custom mirror. Bedlinen, Country Road. Rug, Hali Rugs. MAIN ENSUITE Opposite, bottom left Victoria+Albert ‘Amiata’ bath, Reece. Brodware tapware, Candana. Bolle pendant light, available from Mondo Luce. Carrara Bianco marble vanity and wall panelling, Euro Marble. Azul Spanish limestone floor tiles, Sareen Stone. GIRLS’ BATHROOM Opposite, bottom right Carrara marble hexagon wall tiles, Bisanna Tiles. Custom vanity, Euro Marble. Tapware, Candana. >
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Family
Pool Gym
Kitchen
Bath
Bath Laundry Bed
Dining
Study
Living Bath Second floor
Dressing
BAth
Entry
Bed
Bath
First floor
Cellar Games
Pantry
Bed
Bed
Store
Bed
Garage
Ground floor
Lower ground
WINE CELLAR The wine cellar, designed by Matt and Ellen, can accommodate up to 1100 bottles. Wine racks and temperature control unit, MacPhee’s. Engineered-timber cladding, European Timber Floors. Seating, MCM House. Calacatta marble bench and shelf, Harmony Stone Gallery. Tom Dixon decanter and glassware, Manyara Home. Lighting, Koda Lighting. FAMILY ROOM Avalon stone cladding, Surface Gallery. Coffee tables, Manyara Home. Jetmaster fireplace, Universal Fires. Artwork by Stefan Dunlop. Rug, Robyn Cosgrove. STREET FRONTAGE The beloved jacaranda tree is intrinsic to the home’s design. For Where to Buy, see page 192. #
Paint colours are reproduced as accurately as printing processes allow.
THE LAYOUT
THE PALET TE Dulux Vivid White (interior, main walls)
Dulux Namadji (exterior)
Dulux Terrace White (butler’s pantry)
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Photograph by Sue Stubbs.
P L A N T- F O C U S E D S PA C E S T H A T I N V I T E A N D D E L I G H T
G a rden s
Ripples and swathes of Australian natives define this Queensland garden. Here, flowering white fan-flower (Scaevola albida) and kangaroo paw jostle with golden weeping baeckea (Baeckea frutescens), against a backdrop of eucalypts. See more over the page...
The home is hugged by swathes of undulating natives, including white fan-flower (Scaevola albida), golden-coloured Baeckea frutescens, and delicate brown midgen berry (Austromyrtus dulcis) while a bottlebrush (Callistemon ‘Little John’), hairpin banksia (Banksia spinulosa) and a grass tree (Xanthorrhoea johnsonii) add quintessential Australian character. The stone is Maleny bush rock, a type of basalt salvaged from a local construction site. A cantilevered viewing platform extends out across the ridgeline, allowing homeowners Brenda and Randy to immerse themselves in the surrounding landscape.
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S E N S E O F PL A C E In the fertile sunshine Coast hinterland, a wondrous garden speaks to the ultra-modern home it surrounds while keeping in tune with the landscape beyond. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | P HOTOGRA PH Y Sue Stubbs
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pproaching Brenda and Randy’s property feels a bit like entering a magical realm. Their 800 metre-long driveway takes you on a journey across a creek, up a hill, throughsubtropicalrainforest,acrossa paddock, and alongside a cascading waterfall before arriving at a row of lilly pillies, ushering you to the home. “You feel like you’re in another world,” says Brenda. The 10 hectare (25 acre) property is perched on a ridge in the fertile Blackall Range near Montville, in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hinterland. Brenda and Randy bought the land – a former citrus and pineapple farm – back in 2010 when they were still living in Melbourne, working in corporate roles. They originally planned to purchase a smaller plot, but when they spotted this block and its amazing views, they were smitten. They built a home a few years later, while still living interstate, enlisting Sunshine Coast firm Sparks Architects to create a contemporaryhomethatwouldnuzzlethelandscapeandembrace sustainable-design principles. The completed home comprises two pavilions joined by a timber breezeway with a cantilevered viewing platform that juts out over the ridgeline. Fromtheoutset,thecouplewantedagardentogrowinharmony with the house. Their architect enlisted landscape architect Marc
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Conlon, director of Conlon Group, to create a garden to match the aspirations of the home. “We very much wanted a native garden,” says Brenda. “But neither of us were gardeners, so it also needed to be low maintenance.” Marc’s approach was to create a garden that would “take on a sense of place, drawing on the textures and colours of the natural landscape and using local materials”. Thanks to the Montville climate – including an annual rainfall of well over one metre – and the fertile soils of the former farm, he had good bones to work with. Just as the house sits in the natural contours of the land, so too Marc wanted the garden to work with the natural landforms. “The aim was to hug the house with low-lying natives, using a structured palette of groundcovers,” he says. Because of the size of the site, Marc was able to work with massed plantings of species including lomandra, baeckea, dianella,whitefan-flower(Scaevolaalbida)and“flares”ofknobby matt rush (Ficinia nodosa). To this mix, he added a taller layer of shrubs and ferns including hairpin banksia (Banksia spinulosa), lilly pilly (Syzygium australe) and riberry (Syzygium luehmannii). Then came the tree ferns (Cyathea cooperi), forest grass trees (Xanthorrhoea johnsonii) and Australian fan palm (Licuala ramsayi), all adding bursts and flourishes of foliage. >
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Midgen berry bushes (Austromyrtus dulcis) sprawl over basalt boulders. The main bedroom has front-row views with lilly pilly, hairpin banksia, midgen berries and scaevola growing below. A grass tree looks majestic in the mist. The breezeway features stone steppers set into no-mow grass (Zoysia tenuifolia). OPPOSITE Unruly kangaroo paw and Baeckea frutescens frame the views of Lake Baroon and north Maleny.
Feature plants _______ TREES & SHRUBS Forest grass tree (Xanthorrhoea johnsonii) Tree fern (Cyathea cooperi) Hairpin banksia (Banksia spinulosa) Swamp banksia (Banksia robur) Lilly pilly (Syzygium australe) GROUNDCOVERS Lomandra sp Dianella sp White fan-flower (Scaevola albida) Alpine baeckea (Baeckea gunniana) Weeping baeckea (Baeckea frutescens) Bronze rambler grevillea (Grevillea sp) No-mow grass (Zoysia tenuifolia)
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All the hardscaping elements are earthy and raw: the pathways are gravel, the steps are made from stone and concrete, and there arebasaltbouldersinnonchalantclustersthroughoutthegarden. In the breezeway, large stone steppers are dotted through nomow lawn (Zoysia tenuifolia) and below the house, a large corten steel firepit is surrounded by chunky weathered sleepers. “It’s rustic and zen,” says Marc. “We’ve blurred the lines between gardenandsurroundinglandscape.”Brendafeelsthatthegarden is a good match for the architecure of the home: “The house is quite strong, architecturally, but the garden has strength, too. I love that it combines soft textures and bold elements.” Since moving to the property in 2015, Brenda and Randy have thrown themselves into caring for the garden, which now covers 0.4 hectares (about 1 acre). “We’re more and more engaged with the garden,” says Brenda. “It’s very satisfying to see how we’re improving the property.” Early on, they joined Land for Wildlife to learn about conserving and managing wildlife habitats on the property. They’re also involved in the local Landcare group. “It’s a very diverse piece of land here and we want to manage that biodiversity,” says Brenda. Most of their energy is spent removing privet and restoring the creek system, as well as revegetation. “We’ve planted 1500 shrubs and trees – all native tubestock – since we’ve been here” says Brenda. “And Randy has become a propagator. He has a passion for collecting seeds and growing from seed, and it’s lovely for him to have that connection with the place.” While they have help with weeding and general maintenance, they do much of the work themselves, and always have a project onthego.Theirlatestplans?Aforagegardenandtheintroduction of native beehives. And when they need a break, they just stand back and enjoy that view – and the raucous birdlife. # Conlon Group, Maroochydore, Queensland; conlongroup.com.au.
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Located below the main pavilion, this firepit sits on a base of riverbed gravel. The hefty seats are made from reclaimed timber – originally from a Brisbane wharf – that had been stored on a local farm: the silvery-grey tone of the aged timber is a perfect colour-match with the trunks of the eucalypts behind. Pockets of plants in the gravel and clusters of boulders fringed by low planting help to “blur the lines between the garden and the surrounding landscape”, says Marc. OPPOSITE Spreading groundcovers, including the aptly named Grevillea ‘Bronze Rambler’ and soft grasses including Ficinia nodosa sit in front of a rammed-earth wall.
Who’s really in control at home?
Sign the petition to help make Coercive Control illegal in Australia. This is not the man she fell in love with. He makes life hell for her. She tries not to upset him and does what he wants, just because it’s easier. She’s scared he’ll take it out on the kids or the dog or her if she makes him angry. He tracks her movements and over time he’s cut her off from her friends and family. He questions her every move. No matter which way you look at it, he’s in control which means
there’s no safe way for her to leave the relationship. Coercive Control is a common form of domestic abuse but there is currently no law against it. If we change the law, we can change the lives of thousands of Australian women who are terrified and at risk in their own homes – from someone they love. If you or someone you know is affected by abuse, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
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Squeeze the day Horticulturist Tammy Huynh shares growing tips for abundant and juicy citrus fruit plus introduces some lesser-known varieties.
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ood-looking and versatile, citrus is a justifiably popular garden inclusion. Provided you give your citrus a little TLC, all varieties fruit well and will continue to reward you for many years. Another advantage of citrus is that it doesn’t need a lot of space to grow. While standard trees can grow between 3-4 metres tall, most citrus varieties are available in dwarf form, which can be planted in pots on balconies or in courtyards. GOOD CONDITIONS
Photograph from Alamy.
Citrus thrives in most climates. In frost-prone zones, look for cold-tolerant varieties and grow them in pots so they can easily be brought inside or into a greenhouse in the winter months. Before planting, choose a spot that has at least six hours of sunlight per day and is sheltered from strong winds. Make sure the soil is well-draining and enriched with plenty of compost and organic matter. Citrus will not tolerate clay-based soils, so improve the soil by
regularly mixing in gypsum and soil conditioners if necessary. Alternatively, consider mounding beds to improve drainage or planting in pots using a premium-quality potting mix. TOP CROPS
Water often and deeply during the warmer months and when flowering and fruiting. Mulch around the base with an organic mulch such as sugar cane or lucerne to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Apply an organic-based citrus fertiliser once each season, keeping it away from the trunk. Remove any fruit that appears in the first and second year; this allows the tree to focus on growing into a strong plant that can support a productive crop in the future. Sap-sucking pests, such as aphids, scale, bronze orange bug (also known as stink bug) or mites, are likely to visit citrus. Treat at first sight with a suitable organic insecticide. To keep plants healthy and productive, trim every year after fruiting. #
Unusual suspects
Branch out from traditional citrus with these options. ● Yuzu (Citrus junos): Its flavour is said to be a cross between a grapefruit and a mandarin. Enjoy the juice or zest in cooking. Needs chill to ripen, so a good choice for cooler climates. ● Finger lime (Citrus australasica): The unique appearance and flavour of this native bush food makes it a popular choice for chefs and citrus fans. Available in green, yellow and pink flesh forms. ● Cumquat (Fortunella margarita): All parts of the fruit are edible, including the skin. It’s often described as tart and can be eaten straight from the tree or made into marmalade. ● Pummelo (Citrus maxima): The largest citrus fruit, it tastes similar to grapefruit but sweeter. Grows best in subtropical and tropical climates and available in dwarf forms. ● Lemon Pinky (Citrus x limon ‘Eureka Pink Variegated’): Feature tree with pink-fleshed fruit and variegated leaves. It’s sharp and full of flavour.
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Kitchens created for
Australian living We love helping people transform the spaces within their homes into areas that compliment their lifestyles for years to come. So, if you’re looking to create a stylish and modern kitchen, laundry, wardrobe or even a home ofce, our expert designers can help you create the perfect space for your budget. Book your free virtual, in-home or in-store design consultation today! Visit kinsman.com.au or find us within selected
Transforming spaces. Enriching lifestyles.
Be immersed. Abey Australia’s diverse range of sinks provides you with a selection from around the world. Visit an Abey Selection Gallery to immerse yourself in the collection. Chambord Henri 1 & 3/4 Bowl
VICTORIA Selection Gallery 335 Ferrars St Albert Park Ph: 03 8696 4000
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WESTERN AUSTR ALIA Selection Gallery 12 Sundercombe St Osborne Park Ph: 08 9208 4500
www.abey.com.au
Photograph by Ess. Creative.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
DESIGN IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR KITCHEN SIZZLE
K it chen s
With a clever redesign, this kitchen now receives lashings of light and its owners enjoy a room with a view. The calming palette, meanwhile, subtly echoes the tones of the Australian bush. See over the page for oodles of inspiration for your own kitchen project.
Kitchen special
New lease on life Thanks to a timely overhaul, this once inward-looking kitchen is now a light-filled room with a view. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y LI N G Samantha Torrisi | PHOTOGR A PHY Ess. Creative
A combination of white and soft grey imbues this Sydney kitchen with a sense of calm, which is also derived from having an abundance of storage. “Everything has a place,” says interior designer Annie Bowen.
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KITCHEN
design notes
JOINERY MDF V-groove panelling.
it was time to update their empty nest. Their 1920s bungalow on the city’s North Shore had been a very comfortable family home for 30 years, but some elements – including the kitchen – had remained unchanged that entire time. They knew there was plenty of scope for improvement and called on interior designer Annie Bowen to help. “The rear of the home has a beautiful outlook across the water to Manly, but the old kitchen was inward-looking, with only a small window looking out to the view,” says Annie. “There was a narrow central island, limited storage, and the kitchen benches had become a virtual office, with computers, phone chargers and paperwork on display.” Working with the existing 4x5.9-metre footprint, Annie completely reimagined the space, creating an L-shaped layout with a large central island and a whole new outlook. “We flipped the focus so the workspace looks out to the view,” she says. “Instead of having cabinets along a wall that adjoins the deck, we removed this wall and replaced it with large glass doors. Now the dining deck feels like an extension of the kitchen and the whole space feels bigger.” To get this sense of openness, Annie located the cooktop and bank of overhead cupboards along the back wall. An adjoining wall of V-groove joinery accommodates a walk-in pantry, appliance storage, integrated fridge and another pull-out pantry. The colour palette is neutral and calming, with two-tone cabinetry in white and soft grey-green to subtly echo the tones of the Australian bush. Shaker-style detailing complements the heritage elements of the home. The generous 2.9x1.3-metre island features seating for casual meals, a large sink, a dishwasher and oodles of storage including a wine fridge. Nearby, a hallway cupboard has been converted into a neatly concealed docking station for those laptops and phone chargers. Heavenly! > Annie Bowen Design; anniebowendesign.com.
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SPLASHBACK & BENCHTOPS
Caesarstone Cosmopolitan White, $500-$600/m² (supply only). TAPWARE Franke ‘Eos’ mixer tap with pull-out spray, Reece. SINK Franke ‘Bow’ BXX210-68 single-bowl sink, $1020, Reece. APPLIANCES Integrated refrigerator, Fisher & Paykel. Oven and induction cooktop, Smeg. Rangehood, Qasair. Dishwasher, Bosch Home Appliances. LIGHTING Gubi ‘Ronde’ pendant lights (small), in Pigeon Grey, $429 each, Cult. FURNITURE Dita barstools in Navy, Grazia & Co. WALLS Murobond Paint Salt, quarter strength. FLOORING Engineered-oak boards in Otta, Tongue N Groove Flooring.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
With their adult children no longer living at home, Sydney couple Jane and Andrew decided
Tall cabinetry and island finished in two-pack polyurethane Haymes Paint Phantom; overhead cabinets finished in Wattyl Calcium. CABINET HARDWARE White Satin Slimline metal handles 232mm, $42 each, and 700mm, $72 each, MadeMeasure.
BRAND PROMOTION
CRE AT E YOUR SPACE
Design a home that truly reflects you from room to room with a little help from Freedom Kitchen + Wardrobes
T
he home is an extension of the self, so it makes sense that the internal styling speaks with one clear voice: yours. It’s not always easy to find cohesion between different living spaces, but it can be made simple. For homeowners Debbie and Roger, enlisting the help of Freedom Kitchens + Wardrobes meant they could have the Key design features dream home they’d always wanted. With from the heart of the beautiful black-framed windows at the home weave their heart of their brief, their home was way throughout the rest of the house. transformed into a moody yet sophisticated entertainers’ delight. The kitchen – so important due to Debbie and Roger’s love of hosting – is IT’S NOT ALWAYS light-filled and generous, a modern, EASY TO FIND symmetrical and high-contrast design thanks to Freedom Kitchen’s Alaskan Black COHESION BETWEEN Ultramatt doors against the Caesarstone DIFFERENT SPACES Empira White marble splashback and IN THE HOME chic, waterfall-edged island bench. The Caesarstone is carried through to the master bedroom’s walk-in wardrobe, turning the island and make-up station into an eye-catching focal point. With the dramatic black theme continued in Roger’s home office – contrasted with dark, warm timbers – there’s no doubt this highly functional space belongs. As these spaces belong together, so too do they belong to Debbie and Roger, coming together to create that most unique of design briefs: a home.
“
PRODUCED BY STORY
”
YOUR OWN DREAM HOME Start your Freedom Kitchens + Wardrobes journey today, designing your home exactly how you’ve always wanted it. Simply book a free in-home or video call design appointment at freedomkitchens.com.au.
For more inspiration and in ormation, visit reedomkitchens.com.au
Kitchen special
Grand design Exquisite finishes, bespoke detailing and high functionality define this Sydney cook’s kitchen. STO RY Jackie Brygel | STY LI NG Kerri-Ann Jones P H OTO G RA PH Y Ryan Linnegar
The brief from the owners of this gracious Federation-era Sydney home was clear: create a light,
luxe new kitchen in which timeless form truly meets function. Interior architect Jade Bury, director of Harper Lane Design, relished the task. “The homeowners own a cafe and love to cook,” says Jade. “The brief allowed us to layer detail, colour and space-conscious solutions.” The transformed cooking and dining zone features elements that both surprise and delight. In choosing a colour for the bespoke panelled cabinetry, Jade toyed with sage greens, navy blues and sandy neutrals before settling on moody French Slate by Porter’s Paints. “It felt approachable, while maintaining the depth we wanted to achieve,” says Jade. “Combined with brass touches and chocolate oak floors, it’s rich without being overwhelming, softened by the crisp white walls. We favoured natural finishes that would patina organically over time.” Finding space in the relatively narrow structure for a large island and plenty of storage was a hurdle. “In the end, we managed to find a shape that allowed ample space for preparation and pantry storage,” says Jade of a kitchen that is “loved and utilised” by its delighted owners every day. > Harper Lane Design; harperlanedesign.com.au.
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For Where to Buy, see page 192.
KITCHEN
design notes
JOINERY Panelled cabinetry with custom moulding, two-pack polyurethane finish in Porter’s Paints French Slate. CABINET HARDWARE Ascot brass knobs, $19 each, and Aver brass pulls, $39-$49 each, both Lo & Co. SPLASHBACK & BENCHTOPS
Alpine Quartzite, CDK Stone. TAPWARE Icon sink mixer with pull-out spray in Urban Brass, $1297, Astra Walker. SINK Novi fine fireclay double-bowl butler sink, $1924, Turner Hastings. APPLIANCES Oven, cooktop and rangehood, all Smeg. Fridge and dishwasher, Miele. LIGHTING Precision pendant light in Antique Burnished Brass with white glass, $2409, The Montauk Lighting Company. FURNITURE Odette barstools, $520 each, Odette dining chairs in Navy Blue, $450 each, and Benjamin Ripple oval dining table in Matt Black, $4610, all Globe West. WALLS Dulux Lexicon Quarter. ARTWORK Framed prints from Designer Boys Art. FLOORING Newport Herringbone engineered-oak floorboards , Havwoods International. >
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Kitchen special
Farmhouse fab A mix of large-scale, semi-industrial and textural elements result in a kitchen that combines form, function and beauty. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y LI N G Julia Green & Aisha Chaudhry PH OTO G R A P HY Armelle Habib
“Whether you’re standing in the kitchen and looking along the island or looking through the space out the windows, this kitchen was built with beautiful sight lines in mind,” says designer Kate Walker.
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“To emphasise the symmetry, the kitchen detailing and rangehood align with the fireplace in the adjacent living room,” says Kate. “They are a mirror image of each other.”
KITCHEN
design notes
A ‘European farmhouse aesthetic’ was what Lucy and Steve Cahill had in mind for their
whole-home renovation on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. And their new kitchen – the centrepiece of the revamped home – encapsulates their vision, brought into being by interior designer Kate Walker, principal of KWD. Working with a 6.6x4.3-metre space, Kate assembled a medley of materials and fittings to conjure the sense of a chic barn conversion. Key to the look is the textured oak veneer joinery, selected in a slimline Shaker-style profile, from Farmers Doors. The under-bench cabinetry and tall joinery wall have a natural weathered oak finish, and the island joinery is painted in Porter’s Paints Jeep. Another must-have was the freestanding cooker. “We chose an amazing Ilve bronze oven which works perfectly for the design style,” says Kate. There’s also a focus on textural touchpoints, from the timber door fronts and leather-finish Infinity Quartzite benchtops to the polished plaster rangehood and chalky-effect, handmade Zellige tiles on the wall. Everything in this space is generously sized to match the scale of the architecture. This includes the all-important central island. It measures 3.1x1.7 metres with seating on both sides, so it serves as a stylish dining space as well as a food preparation area. Making the most of the lofty space (the ceiling is 4.3 metres high at its highest point), Kate installed customised arched timber windows, which impart a European flavour and fill the room with light. “We wanted to make sure there was a view from the kitchen sink,” she explains. “And the oven had to be central because we wanted to create a traditional chimney effect.” From there, the rest of the layout was formed on the basis of zones. There is a cooking and preparation zone (cooker and island), a consumables zone (pantry and fridge) and a cleaning zone (sink and dishwasher). “It’s a contemporary kitchen built around outlook, flow and functionality,” says Kate. >
KWD; katewalkerdesign.com.au.
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in textured American oak veneer, Farmers Doors. Island joinery finished in Porter’s Paints Jeep. CABINET HARDWARE ‘Series 96001’ handles and ‘Series 2163’ knobs, both in Antique Bronze, Domino Architectural Brass Fittings. SPLASHBACK Zellige Bianco matt ceramic tiles, KWD & Co. BENCHTOPS Infinity Quartzite, KWD & Co. TAPWARE Perrin & Rowe ‘IO’ two-hole bench-mounted mixer with metal levers, round spout and spray rinse, $1801, The English Tapware Company. SINK Acquello fireclay double sink, $1995, The English Tapware Company. APPLIANCES Nostalgie 1200 freestanding cooker and rangehood, Ilve. Integrated fridge/freezer, Liebherr. Dishwasher, Asko. LIGHTING Barbara Barry ‘Capitol’ wide lanterns in bronze with silk shade, The Montauk Lighting Company. FURNITURE Olivia barstools, Globe West. WALLS Dulux Snowy Mountains Quarter. FLOORING Mill Valley engineered European oak boards, KWD & Co.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
WINDOWS 3D Windows. JOINERY Slimline Shaker-style doors
Models: 30824-33 and 30917-80 Switzrok Matte White
NEW ZERO FOR BALANCE AND SIMPLICITY Faucet Strommen’s new Zero Progresiv mixers create an architectural statement of minimalism and simplicity. The beautifully balanced design and the finest Australian made quality make Zero the perfect feature in high end residential projects. Zero is available in a wide range of models and finishes to meet your design requirements. Contact us for a catalogue or more information.
(03) 5450 4236 faucetstrommen.com.au
Statement stone steals the scene in a kitchen that is both dramatic and an entertainer’s delight. STO RY Jackie Brygel | P H OTOG R A P HY Tom Ferguson
It was, for all concerned, a case of love at first sight. From the moment the owners of this home
on Sydney’s Lower North Shore spotted the extraordinary slab of intricately veined Cambrian Black granite, they realised their search was over. And their designers, Corben Architects, agreed. “They all knew it was perfect,” says Karina Kerr, the firm’s senior interior designer. “It looks spectacular from a distance, but up close it’s magic. It feels like you can see into the stone, and the leathered finish has an alluring tactility that invites you to run your hands across it.” Indeed, the first thing you notice when walking into this kitchen is the 4-metre-long island encased in the inky granite. “The monolithic stone island bench takes what is a functional kitchen to another level, and creates a visual separation between the dining area and kitchen,” says architect Amy Eccles, an associate at Corben Architects. “We wanted to put this amazing slab of stone centrestage.” Providing the perfect support act is a rear workbench topped in stainless steel, and cabinetry in contrasting finishes that range from wenge veneer to stainless steel and two-pack polyurethane. The concealed appliance cupboard and pantry keep clutter at bay, while an integrated fridge-freezer is in keeping with the behind-closed-doors vibe. A window splashback draws in the garden vista. “The lustre of the stone and reflectivity of the stainless steel are offset with the simple, clean lines of the design, so the materials sing,” says Amy. “And the flow of the kitchen works seamlessly.” > Corben Architects; corben.com.au.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
Kitchen special
Material crush
KITCHEN
design notes JOINERY Two-pack
polyurethane in Dulux Taihape (left), stainless steel (above window), and wenge veneer (right). BENCHTOPS Kitchen island in Cambrian Black granite from SNB Stone, fabricated and installed by Granite & Marble Works. The rear bench is stainless steel. TAPWARE KWC ‘Zoe’ pull-out tap, $2199, Winning Appliances. SINK Franke ‘Kubus’ double-bowl sink, $1389, Winning Appliances. APPLIANCES Fridge, Miele. M-Series pyrolytic built-in oven, convection oven and Professional gas cooktop, all Wolf. DishDrawer dishwasher, Fisher & Paykel. Rangehood, Qasair. WALLS Dulux Lexicon Half. FLOORING Queensland spotted gum.
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Dream spaces We’re the experts at bringing your kitchen space to life. Book a free in-home or video design appointment today, and we’ll work with you to help make your dream kitchen a reality for your lifestyle and budget.
For inspiration and our special offers freedomkitchens.com.au
Kitchen special
Multi tasker A clever new layout, timeless palette and beautiful brass touches produce a kitchen that is both inviting and super-functional. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y LI N G Donna Allen | P H OTOG RA PHY Helen Ward
Before they moved into this home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the new owners were keen to
revamp the rear living area. In its original state, the 8.5x3.5-metre space consisted of a U-shaped kitchen/laundry with a separate dining area. It felt cramped and didn’t embrace the garden views, and the residents-to-be knew the layout could be more efficient and coherent. Their brief to interior designer Donna Allen of The Space Within was for a classic-looking kitchen with durable finishes, plenty of storage, an island and a strong connection to the dining zone. Working within the existing footprint, Donna completely reconfigured the layout. “The best way to accommodate an island was to design the rear cabinetry in an L shape,” she says. That island is the key, housing the dishwasher, bins and microwave, plus drawers for cutlery and tableware. The masterstroke was relocating the laundry to the opposite side of the room, where appliances are concealed within a beautiful wall of joinery. The perimeter cabinetry is painted the palest of olive shades, while the island is a contrasting deep olive green, both with brass hardware. Cost-effective and quick-to-install vinyl flooring was laid over existing terracotta tiles, providing a neutral base for a space that is soft, quiet and easy to maintain. >
The Space Within; thespacewithin.com.au.
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design notes JOINERY MDF in Resene
Quarter Grey Olive (L-shape) and Resene Easy Rider (island). Brushed-brass island legs by Baccman Berglund for Casson Hardware.
Bugle brass handles, $39.60 each, Kethy. Graf knobs in brushed brass, from $12 each, Linear Standard. SPLASHBACK Smartstone Calacatta Crema, $935/m² installed. BENCHTOPS Smartstone Calacatta Crema (perimeter) and Caesarstone Snow, $550/m² installed (island). TAPWARE Oliveri ‘Essente’ gooseneck mixer with pullout spray in Satin Nickel. Billi round slimline dispenser and filter tap. SINK Schock ‘Horizont’ double-bowl undermount sink in Polaris, $1505, Abey. APPLIANCES Gas cooktop and integrated dishwasher, both Fisher & Paykel. Pyrolytic oven, Bosch. French-door fridge, Haier. Undermount rangehood, Schweigen. LIGHTING Astro ‘Rafina’ pendant light, $619, ECC Lighting+Furniture (kitchen). ‘Hudson’ aged-brass pendant light with linen shade, $995, Magins (dining area). FURNITURE Modanest ‘Wovenest’ white American oak barstools with Danish cord seats, $1095 each, Artifex. ‘Benchwright’ extending pedestal dining table in Seadrift, $2259, Pottery Barn. Mid-century leather dining chairs, $599 each, West Elm. WALLS Dulux Natural White. ARTWORKS Giclée print by Suk Shuglie (above sink). Print by unknown artist (dining area). FLOORING Knight Tile vinyl tiles in Soapstone (305x457mm), Karndean Designflooring. >
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For Where to Buy, see page 192.
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Kitchen special
Bright star Combining a vibrant colour choice with a well-considered layout produces a sunny kitchen where cooking, gathering and circulation happily coexist.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | P H OTO GR A P H Y Joe Grey
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KITCHEN It’s hard to believe now, but this Launceston kitchen was once a 1990s vision in monochromatic
brown, with heavy timber overhead cupboards that formed a barricade between it and the rest of the living spaces. Frustrated with the dated colour scheme and the restrictive layout, owners Jack and Trinity asked interior designer Lydia Maskiell to perform a complete overhaul. “They wanted a functional, inviting kitchen with texture and personality injected into the space,” says Lydia. Colour was an important part of the transformation. Jack and Trinity wanted something bold and vibrant – and Lydia responded with cabinetry in Dulux Salt Blue teamed with green fishscale mosaics on the wall. These tones are perfectly offset by zesty pops of terracotta and copper. Equally vital was the need for an open layout with easy flow. Lydia removed the barrier-like overhead shelving and devised an L-shaped layout with an island, allowing for two entry points into the room. The island serves as a gathering point while the workstations are clear of the thoroughfares. “The layout accommodates a large family and connects the kitchen to the living areas,” says Lydia. “Most of all, it’s a space you feel happy in. It’s full of life, vibrancy and personality.” >
Lydia Maskiell Interior Collection; lydiamaskiell.com.
design notes
JOINERY MDF with V-groove profile in Dulux Salt Blue and Dulux Natural White (island). CABINET HARDWARE ‘Pierre’ handles in Antique Copper, $11 each, Bauer’s Hardware Collections. SPLASHBACK Coral Bay gloss green fishscale mosaics, $108/m², Tile Cloud. BENCHTOPS Caesarstone Pure White, $500-$600/m² (supply only). TAPWARE Armando Vicario ‘TINK-D’ kitchen mixer with pull-out spray in Rose Gold, $997, Abey. SINK Havsen double-bowl sink, $399, Ikea. LIGHTING Muuto ‘Unfold’ pendant lamps in Terracotta, $315 each, Living Edge. FURNITURE Flip American ash counter stools, $295 each, Relax House. APPLIANCES French-door fridge, Samsung. 900mm freestanding cooker, Euromaid. Dishwasher and rangehood, Smeg. WALLS Dulux Natural White. FLOORING Lime Silver matt tiles (450x900mm), Rossetto Tiles.
Kitchen special
KITCHEN
design notes JOINERY New Camden Oyster Grey Matt (overhead), new Ballina Enamel Natural (island), new Avalon Oyster Grey Matt (rangehood panelling), Kinsman. CABINET HARDWARE Matt Brass Rounded Bar 34-K-132, Touch Catch, Kinsman. BENCHTOPS Caesarstone Black Tempal, 20mm shark-nose edge (island), Caesarstone Frozen Terra, 20mm shark-nose edge. ACCESSORIES Internal drawers, steel cutlery trays, Design Side glass-sided drawers and new Ninka bin, all from Kinsman.
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The thrill of the new proved irresistible to Jimmy and Tam – winners of the 2020 series of
renovation show The Block – when they designed this kitchen in collaboration with Kinsman Kitchens. Keen to inject a fun and fresh feel into the generous, family-sized kitchen, the pair were drawn to Kinsman’s brand-new door profiles, benchtop finishes and colours. Their goal? That the space feel modern and be full of interest. And their cabinetry selections have done exactly that, managing to blend colours and textures while maintaining a sense of harmony. New Avalon Oyster Grey Matt cabinetry accentuates the height of the ceiling to stunning effect, while the new Camden Oyster Grey Matt doors, with their slim Shaker profile, offer a nod to the home’s heritage. A combination of brass handles and touch-catch mechanisms adds beautifully to the look. Along the back wall, black-framed glass cabinets break up the grey cabinetry while emphasising the scale of the space. The hero of the space is the generous island bench, which is wrapped with Kinsman’s new Ballina Enamel Natural accent colour – a strong mid-tone green with warm undertones that ensures this island is a welcoming gathering spot. The bench is topped with Caesarstone’s new colour, Black Tempal, with a slim 20mm shark-nose edge, underlining the kitchen’s sleek and modern good looks. >
Kinsman Kitchens; kinsman.com.au.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
For more inspiring kitchens, check out H&G’s new publication, Luxe Kitchens, Bathrooms and Dressing Rooms, $12.99. Available from magshop.com.au.
Green, grey and black have been skilfully blended to create a kitchen that looks delicious from every angle. STO RY Sarah Pickette | STY L IN G Ruth Welsby | P HOTOG R A P H Y Marcel Aucar
When it’s time to entertain, this showcase island becomes party central while the rest of the kitchen quietly disappears behind closed doors. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y LI N G Holly Irvine | P HOTOG R AP HY Tom Ferguson
By their nature, kitchens are practical
places, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be refined and elegant – or even invisible. That was the concept behind this now-you-see-it, now-you-don’t Sydney kitchen by interior designer Janson Sadler of Sona Studio. In their brief to Janson, the owners, a pair of keen entertainers, called for a “discreet” kitchen. They wanted a space that could easily slip into ‘hosting mode’, where all utilitarian elements could be hidden behind closed doors at a moment’s notice. In response, Janson designed a showcase island measuring 3x1.3 metres, topped with a magnificent slab of black marble. This is the party-ready ‘face’ of the kitchen. All the pragmatic fittings, including the integrated fridge/freezer, pantry and storage, are housed within the back wall of joinery. Even the sink, cooktop and dishwasher are contained in a 3-metre-wide section of closeable cabinetry so they, too, can be concealed when desired. When the sink area is in use, the front panels simply slide open and stack away at both ends of the benchtop, without encroaching on the circulation space. “For a concept like this to work, hardware needs to be durable, efficient and easy to use,” says Janson, who installed Häfele’s ‘Hawa Folding Concepta 25’. Dark tones emerged as the natural palette for this sophisticated space. The joinery is black-stained oak, teamed with black marble splashback/benchtops and offset by polished terrazzo flooring – all beautiful, durable surfaces perfect for everyday cooking and as a sleek backdrop for entertaining. > Sona Studio; sona.studio.
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
Kitchen special
Sliding doors
KITCHEN
design notes JOINERY Black-stained
American oak veneer with a clear polyurethane satin finish. CABINET HARDWARE
Routed finger pull handles in custom joinery. SPLASHBACK & BENCHTOPS
Argo black marble, Worldstone Solutions. TAPWARE KWC ‘Zoe’ pull-out tap, $2199, Winning Appliances. SINK Franke ‘Centinox’ single-bowl sink, $1169, Winning Appliances. APPLIANCES Ovens and dishwasher, Miele. Integrated fridge/freezer, Liebherr. Cooktop, Wolf. Rangehood, Qasair. LIGHTING Artemide ‘Scopas’ suspension lamp, ECC Lighting+Furniture. FURNITURE Iva barstools, Grazia & Co. WALLS Dulux Fair Bianca Quarter. FLOORING Bianco terrazzo slabs in honed finish, Worldstone Solutions. AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
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Kitchen special
Crisp & calm Clean lines and beautiful natural stone combine to create a deliciously light-filled and luxe kitchen. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y L I N G Madeline McFarlane PH OTO GRA PH Y Chris Warnes
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KITCHEN
design notes
JOINERY V-groove cabinetry with
two-pack polyurethane finish in Dulux Casper White. CABINET HARDWARE Sydney couple Dean and Donna faced an issue commonly experienced by owners of older
houses: the rear section of their 1914 semi-detached home was a labyrinth of small rooms, the product of years of ad-hoc renovations. So they engaged architects Baikie Corr and interior designer Lara Ette to help them reimagine this space, at the heart of which they wanted a light-filled, open-plan kitchen with a feature island. The layout emerged organically. To draw light into the space, the architects specified a glass splashback and positioned a window above the cabinetry. “It made sense to place the kitchen sink and mixer under the window, with the oven on the other side,” says Lara. “It’s an L-shaped layout, with the pantry at one end and the fridge at the other, with a generous island in the middle.” The island, measuring 2.4x1.1 metres, has a sink-free, clutter-free benchtop, as per Dean and Donna’s brief, making it a natural spot for gathering and entertaining. In response to the call for a “light, bright and calm” scheme, Lara teamed white V-groove cabinetry with benchtops and splashbacks in Super White Dolomite, a beautiful, cloud-like stone that wraps around the sides and front fascia of the island. “We wanted to let it shine,” says Lara. The cabinetry adds texture while the clean-lined benchtops ensure the room feels contemporary and fresh. Touches of brass create the effect of subtle jewellery in the room. >
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
Lara Ette Design; laraettedesign.com.
White satin pull handles, from $52 each, and brass satin slimline handles (fridge and pantry doors), from $74 each, MadeMeasure.
SPLASHBACK & BENCHTOPS
Super White Dolomite. TAPWARE Oliveri ‘Vilo’ pull-out mixer tap, $1275, and Billi ‘B-5000’ filter tap with boiling, chilled and sparkling filtered water with XL levered dispenser, $5879, Winning Appliances. SINK Blanco ‘Subline’ doublebowl undermount sink, $1089, Winning Appliances. APPLIANCES Fisher & Paykel integrated French-door fridge and Miele pyrolitic oven, steam oven and induction cooktop, all Winning Appliances. LIGHTING Rubn Lighting ‘Long John Pendant 5’ pendant light, from $1396, Fred International. FURNITURE Mr Fräg ‘Dowel’ stools, $890, Catapult Design. WALLS Dulux Casper White Quarter. FLOORING Engineered-oak floorboards in White Smoked, Woodcut.
Kitchen special
Game changer A new floor plan ensures that this kitchen is not just transformed aesthetically; it attains a whole new level of connection and flow. STO RY Elizabeth Wilson | ST Y LI N G Claire Driscoll Delmar | P HOTOG RA PHY Pablo Veiga
KITCHEN
design notes JOINERY MDF with two-pack polyurethane finish in Porter’s Paints Wood Smoke. CABINET HARDWARE
Metal recessed pulls in Matt Black, from $44 each, MadeMeasure. SPLASHBACK Piketto mosaic tiles in Grey, $162/m², Surface Gallery. BENCHTOPS Caesarstone Airy Concrete, $600$800/m² (supply only). TAPWARE Franke ‘Atlas’ mixer tap with pull-out spray, $949, Winning Appliances. SINK Franke ‘Centinox’ one-and-three-quarterbowl sink, $2659, Winning Appliances. APPLIANCES Oven, induction cooktop, fridge and integrated dishwasher, all Miele. Rangehood, Qasair. LIGHTING DeltaLight ‘Spy’ trimless downlights, Inlite. WALLS Dulux Natural White. FLOORING Italian terrazzo honed tiles in Dove, $155/m², Surface Gallery.
It often pays to think outside the square,
as was the case in the redesign of this Sydney apartment. The owners, parents to three young sons, were keen to modernise their 1990s kitchen and improve its connection to the rest of the home. “The original kitchen was contained in its own room, with one small entry point,” says Studio Quarters interior designer Theresa Chan, who worked with her business partner Janice Chenchow on the project. The owners’ original brief was for a servery window to connect the kitchen to the adjacent dining room, but Theresa and Janice felt a “larger gesture” was required. They removed the wall altogether, creating an L-shaped layout that opens directly to the dining zone. Instead of an island, they designed what they call a “central core” containing the cooktop and an additional prep area. The design maximises both work and circulation space, says Theresa. “The double opening transforms how the kitchen relates to the rest of the apartment,” says Theresa. “It feels less confined and improves flow in and out of the space.” It also adds storage by ‘piggybacking’ joinery in the corridor and kitchen. To soften the openings into the kitchen, Theresa and Janice designed curved corners for the cabinetry. Not only does this look elegant, it reduces the sharp edges in a household with young children. The palette combines Porter’s Paints Wood Smoke on the cabinetry with grey mosaic tiles and concrete-look Caesarstone benchtops. “It’s calming, cool and contemporary,” says Janice. >
For Where to Buy, see page 192.
Studio Quarters; studioquarters.com.au.
AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
183
LUXURY YOU CAN AFFORD. LIMITED EDITION & HAND-SIGNED.
LUMAS ART Gallery - 597 Church St, Richmond, VIC 3121
ISABELLE MENIN Up to The Sky Limited Edition 60 x 120 cm mounted, Acrylic glass from $1,999
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BERLIN · LONDON · NEW YORK · PARIS · MELBOURNE · FR ANKFURT
Kitchen special
K ITCHEN S Y NC
Text by Elizabeth Wilson. Styling by Bree Leech. Photograph by Lisa Cohen.
Stylish new appliances, finishes, fittings and fixtures can help turn your kitchen into a smooth-running hub of the home.
WITH THE GR AIN
The new Pure Grain surface by Laminex has been developed to replicate the look of painted timber. An affordable option to veneers and solid timber cabinetry, Pure Grain offers a luxe woodgrain finish in six colours including Tornado and Alaskan, shown here on the tall cabinetry and shelving respectively. $86.55/m². laminex.com.au > AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN |
185
Kitchen special
Bowled over
Display your favourite seasonal fruit or deliver a generous salad to the table in style in this Pebble serving bowl by Mud Australia, shown here in the XL size in Blossom, $497. mudaustralia.com.au
HUMBLE DRY ER
Tea towels may be hardworking kitchen assistants, but that doesn’t preclude them from being beautiful as well. Designed and handmade in Australia, this Bonnie and Neil Wattle tea towel in Grey, $39, is as lovely to look at as it is to use. Pair it with the Maison Balzac ‘Cou Cou’ jug in Amber, $149, also from Bonnie and Neil. bonnieandneil.com.au
Clear the air
...and make a dazzling statement at the same time with the Divina Cucina rangehood, $5000, produced as part of the long and fruitful collaboration between Smeg and fashion house Dolce & Gabbana. smeg.com.au
SLICING HE AV EN
Look sharp and confident in the kitchen with a collection of high-performance knives. Swiss brand Victorinox offers an extensive range of knife sets and blocks, including the Swiss Classic Kitchen Set, $345/7-piece set, which includes a carving fork (above) and ultra-sharp Santoku knife (below). victorinox.com.au
TOTAL PERFORMER Ilve’s P15SDNE3-MGG 150cm-wide Grand Cusine cooker is a multitasking dynamo featuring a generous double oven plus a 7-hob gas cooktop and cast-iron simmer plate. Shown here in Matt Graphite with Gold Styling, it’s $19,999. ilve.com.au > 186 |
AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
NEXUS Steam
The ultimate cooking experience from the UK’s Number One range cooking brand.
Rangehood not available in Australia.
New from Falcon: Australia’s first range cooker with dedicated steam oven. Professional results every time thanks to superior nutrient retention and precise temperature control.
Kitchen special
GA LLERY ST Y LE
A sunny artwork is a perfect ingredient in a lightfilled kitchen. This acrylic on canvas work, Azalea and the butter dish by Bethany Saab, measures 76x76cm with a Tasmanian oak frame. $1600; Michael Reid Northern Beaches. michaelreidstudiodirect.com.au
All seasons
Caesarstone’s new Outdoor Collection of engineeredquartz surfaces has been developed with UV resistance and added durability, making it perfect for use in outdoor entertaining areas. There are currently three colourways in the collection, with more to come. $600-$800/m² supply only. caesarstone.com.au
NEW ERA Combining sleek design and top performance, it’s no wonder the 60cm Miele H 7860 BP PureLine Cleansteel pyrolytic oven, $7999, won gold in the Good Design Awards. miele.com.au
THE FINEST FINISHES
MINIMALIST
Zero Progresiv Smooth mixer in Antique Brass, $1420; faucetstrommen.com.au.
Only $3 wHen yOu p r a pArtiCipaTing mAgazIne* oR $7.99 wHen pUrchAsed sEparAtelY
iNsidE!
On sAle nOw On-sale 11/02/21 – 9/03/21 or while stocks last. Subject to availability. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Participating magazine titles include: Take 5, Bluey, Take 5 Bumper Monthly, Country Style, Home Beautiful, Australian House and Garden, Who, The Australian Women’s Weekly Cookbooks, TV Week, Inside Out, The Australian Women’s Weekly, That’s Life, Marie Claire, Woman’s Day, New Idea, Family Circle, That’s Life Puzzler On The Go, That’s Life Mega Monthly, Better Homes and Gardens, Gourmet Traveller, Woman’s Day Super Puzzler. PAW Patrol ©&TM Spin Master Ltd. All rights reserved. MY LITTLE PONY and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2021 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. Licensed by Hasbro.
TIME TO TAKE ACTI O N ON SALE NOW
AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE WHERE ALL GOOD BOOKS ARE SOLD AND AT AREMEDIABOOKS.COM.AU
Eternity Delano from Choices Flooring provides the perfect mix of superior quality and affordability, with a rich texture and subtle colour palette that resembles wool. RRP from $36.90/m2. choicesflooring.com.au
The new Coco Republic Malibu Outdoor Extension Dining Table and Cruz Outdoor Dining Chairs reflect a modern, minimalist aesthetic and are crafted from robust materials. See cocorepublic.com.au for more.
Kaboodle’s steel frame shelving range creates a modern storage solution that doubles as a practical design feature. Designed to be used in conjunction with our cabinetry or as standalone pieces. kaboodle.com.au
H&G ESSENTIALS Laminex® AbsoluteMatte® is an ultra-matte, intriguingly tactile and fingerprint resistant surface suitable for benchtops and cabinetry. Prices start at $109.89/m2 inc. GST. laminex.com.au
Create a beautiful lifestyle and home with these must-have products.
The clever “Aura” recliner Chair from Himolla is available with manual or motor mechanisms, plus a battery option. Prices start from $3300 in fabric or leather. Find your nearest stockist at himolla.com/au
Caroma’s Luna bathroom collection now features a range of colour finishes across tapware, showers and accessories. The 6-star WELS-rated Luna wall basin/bath mixer in Black is $309. caroma.com.au
Naked Wines lets you discover wines by the best Australian and New Zealand winemakers – and you’ll also receive $100 off your first case. For more information, visit nakedwines.com.au/wine
Add a burst of colour and brilliance to empty walls with Menin’s collection of unique botanical compositions from LUMASGallery. RRP from $1100. Use code LUMASxHG for 10% off. au.lumas.com
MiPlank from Polyflor is designed purposefully for Australian homes and busy families. Easy to install and quiet underfoot, it has a PUR coating and heavy duty commercial wear layer. polyflor.com.au
This sculptured and perfectly circular “Henge” cast stone basin by Faucet Strommen features a smooth satin finish, beautifully balanced proportions and fine European quality. RRP $690, faucetstrommen.com.au
Royal Oak Floors are an elegant foundation for everyday living with a diverse palette of tones and textures, from soft light shades to bold dark flooring. RRP from $85+GST. royaloakfloors.com.au
W H E R E T O BU Y
Locate your nearest stockist by contacting the following suppliers. A Abbey Fireplaces (02) 9939 9848; thefireplace.com.au Abey 1800 809 143; abey.com.au Academy Home Goods academyhomegoods.com.au Academy Tiles+Surfaces (02) 9436 3566; academytiles.com.au Alex and Trahanas alexandtrahanas.com Alfresco Emporium (02) 9919 0601; alfrescoemporium.com.au Allen & Unwin allenandunwin.com Amara amara.com/au Anibou (02) 9319 0655; anibou.com.au Artedomus (02) 9557 5060; artedomus.com Artifex Australia 1800 999 522; artifexaustralia.com Ascraft (02) 9360 2311; ascraft.com.au Asko 1300 002 756; asko.com.au Astra Walker (02) 8838 5100; astrawalker.com.au Atelier Furniture (02) 9810 4408; atelier.com.au B Bauer’s Hardware Collections (07) 3275 3589; bauers.com.au Becker Minty (02) 8356 9999; beckerminty.com Bed Threads bedthreads.com.au BeefEater Barbecues 1800 356 660; beefeaterbbq.com Behruz Studio (03) 9824 8156; behruzstudio.com Better Tiles (02) 9361 4388; bettertiles.com.au Billi 1800 812 321; billihome.com.au Bisanna Tiles (02) 9310 2500; bisanna.com.au Blinds by Peter Meyer 1800 254 631; petermeyer.com.au Bosch Home Appliances 1300 368 339; bosch-home.com.au Bound Interiors 0412 263 944 Boyac (03) 9429 5455; boyac.com.au Braeside Joinery (02) 8542 9781; braesidejoinery.com.au C Caesarstone 1300 119 119; caesarstone.com.au Candana (02) 9389 8631; candana.com.au Capral 1300 366 517; capral.com.au Casa by Studio Kate studiokate.com.au Cass Brothers (02) 9569 5555; www.cassbrothers.com.au Casson Hardware casssonhardware.com Catapult Design (02) 8001 6646; catapultdesign.net.au
CDK Stone (03) 8552 6000; cdkstone.com.au Chee Soon & Fitzgerald (02) 8399 1305; cheesoonfitzgerald.com Classic Ceramics (02) 9560 6555; classicceramics.com.au Coco Republic 1300 000 220; cocorepublic.com.au Colorbond 1800 022 999; colorbond.com ColorTile 1300 265 678; colortile.com.au Conley & Co (02) 8065 9411 Conzept Landscape Architects (02) 9922 5312; conzept.net.au Corian 1800 267 426; corian.com.au Country Road 1800 801 911; countryroad.com.au Cowhides Direct cowhidesdirect.com Cult 1300 768 626; cultdesign.com.au D Dash & Albert wintonhouse.com.au David Jones 133 357; shop.davidjones.com.au Decor Design Centre (08) 9328 1077; decordesign.com.au Dedece (02) 9360 2722; dedece.com.au Designer Boys Art designerboyscollections.com Designstuff (03) 9592 2960; designstuff.com.au Dinosaur Designs (02) 9698 3500; dinosaurdesigns.com.au District (08) 9388 1855; district.com.au Domayne domayne.com.au Domestic Textile Corporation 1800 177 170; domestictextile.com.au Domino Architectural Brass Fittings (03) 9330 0111; dominobrass.com.au Domus Textiles (02) 9380 6577; domustextiles.com.au Droog droog.com Dulux 132 525; dulux.com.au Duravit (02) 8070 1889; duravit.com.au E E&S 1800 429 589; eands.com.au Early Settler earlysettler.com.au Earp Bros (02) 4925 4550; earp.com.au ECC Lighting+Furniture (02) 9380 7922; ecc.com.au Eco Outdoor 1300 131 413; ecooutdoor.com.au Euro Marble (02) 9960 6234; www.euromarble.com.au Euromaid (02) 9999 2124; euromaid.com.au European Timber Floors (02) 9363 0808
Everist Timber (03) 5979 1674; everisttimber.com.au F Fanuli (02) 9908 2660; fanuli.com.au Farmers Doors (07) 5574 6881; farmersdoors.com Fat Shack Vintage (03) 9943 9026; fatshackvintage.com.au Fenton & Fenton (03) 9533 2323; fentonandfenton.com.au Ferro Artistico @ferro_artistico_au Finch Projects (02) 9773 3102; finchprojects.com.au Fisher & Paykel 1300 650 590; fisherpaykel.com.au Forbo Flooring Systems 1800 224 471; www.forbo-flooring.com.au Fox Jensen Gallery (02) 8084 4298; jensengallery.com Francalia (02) 9948 4977; francalia.com.au Fred International (02) 9310 3263; fredinternational.com.au Freedom 1300 135 588; freedom.com.au G Gerflor 1800 060 785; www.gerflor.com.au Globe West 1800 722 366; globewest.com.au Granite & Marble Works (02) 9519 9900; granitemarbleworks.com.au Grazia & Co (03) 9589 4398; graziaandco.com.au Great Dane (03) 9417 5599; greatdanefurniture.com Green Cathedral 0423 000 383; greencathedral.bigcartel.com Greene & Greene Antiques (02) 9328 1712; greeneandgreene.com.au Greg Natale (02) 8399 2103; gregnatale.com Gro Urban Oasis gro-urbanoasis.com.au H Hali Rugs 1300 131 120; hali.com.au Hardtofind hardtofind.com.au Harmony Stone Gallery (02) 9550 5529; harmonystonegallery.com.au Havwoods International 1300 428 966; havwoods.com.au Haymes Paint 1800 033 431; haymespaint.com.au Hendrix the Maker hendrixthemaker.com.au
See your floor change in an instant with Choices Flooring’s room visualiser...
Hermès 1300 728 807; www.hermes.com Homestead Cabinets (03) 5981 0880; homesteadcabinets.com.au Horizon Landscapes horizonlandscapes.com.au Hub Furniture (03) 9652 1222; hubfurniture.com.au Hugo Michell Gallery (08) 8331 8000; hugomichellgallery.com Hycraft Carpets 1800 630 401 I Iittala www.iittala.com.au Ikea (02) 8020 6641; ikea.com.au Ilve 1300 694 583; ilve.com.au Inartisan 0401 818 157; inartisan.com Inlite (02) 9699 3900; inlite.com.au Instyle (02) 9317 0222; instyle.com.au Interiors Online 1800 855 084; interiorsonline.com.au Interiors Soft Furnishings (02) 8814 8777 J James Hardie jameshardie.com.au Jardan (03) 8581 4988; jardan.com.au Jeld-Wen jeld-wen.com.au Jetmaster 1300 538 627; jetmaster.com.au John-Richard johnrichard.com K Karndean Designflooring 1800 331 170; karndean.com.au Kennedy’s Timbers (07) 3293 0528; kennedystimbers.com.au Kethy (02) 9542 4991; kethy.com.au Kinsman Kitchens (02) 8006 5553; kinsman.com.au Kira & Kira kiraandkira.com.au Klaylife, available from Fenton & Fenton (03) 9533 2323; fentonandfenton.com.au Koch & Co 1300 555 624; koch.com.au Koda Lighting (02) 9699 6007; kodalighting.com.au KWD & Co kwdandco.com.au L Ladelle ladellegroup.com Laminex 132 136; laminex.com.au Laura Kincade (02) 9667 4415; laurakincade.com Leilah leilah.com.au Leonard Joel (03) 9826 4333; www.leonardjoel.com.au Les Interieurs (02) 9380 4975; lesinterieurs.com.au Libertine Parfumerie (03) 9661 1258; www.libertineparfumerie.com.au Liebherr 1800 685 899; andico.com.au Lighting Collective lightingcollective.com.au
StockiStS H G
Linear Standard linearstandard.com.au Living Edge 1300 132 154; livingedge.com.au Lo & Co loandcointeriors.com.au Loughlin Furniture (02) 4322 2186; loughlinfurniture.com.au Lucinda Jones Art lucindajones.com.au M MacPhee’s 1800 733 621; www.macphees.com.au MadeMeasure mademeasure.com Magins Design 1300 495 032; maginslighting.com.au Maison et Jardin (02) 9362 8583; www.maisonetjardin.com.au Manyara Home (02) 9997 4462; www.manyarahome.com.au Marble Mosaics (02) 9030 0395; marblemosaics.com.au Mark Tuckey marktuckey.com.au Marlow & Finch (02) 8960 6103; marlowandfinch.com.au Marni marni.com Max Sparrow maxsparrow.com.au MCM House (02) 9698 4511; mcmhouse.com Miele 1300 464 353; shop.miele.com.au Modular Lighting 1300 101 433; modular.partners Mokum mokumtextiles.com Mondo Luce (02) 9690 2667; mondoluce.com Mondopiero mondopiero.com.au Mother of Pearl & Sons Trading (02) 8332 6999; motherofpearl.com MRD Home (03) 9331 7533; mrdhome.com.au Mud Australia (02) 9569 8181; mudaustralia.com Murobond Paint 1800 199 299; murobond.com.au N Naturally Cane (02) 4948 2829; naturallycane.com.au Noritake (02) 9316 7123; noritake.com.au O Officeworks 1300 633 423; officeworks.com.au Oliveri 1300 137 465; oliveri.com.au Ondene (02) 9362 1734; ondene.com.au Onsite Supply+Design (02) 9360 3666; onsitesd.com.au Orson & Blake (02) 8399 2525; orsonandblake.com.au
P Paddington Shutters & Blinds (02) 9380 7277; psab.com.au Palmer & Penn (02) 9328 4800; www.palmerandpenn.com.au Parisi parisi.com.au Paul Ferrante paulferrante.com Peter’s of Kensington (02) 9662 1099; petersofkensington.com.au Planet (02) 9211 5959; planetfurniture.com.au Pond Home (02) 9969 5800 Porter’s Paints 1800 656 664; porterspaints.com Pottery Barn 1800 232 914; potterybarn.com.au Premier Carpets (02) 9310 4455; premiercarpets.com.au Provincial Home Living 1300 732 258; provincialhomeliving.com.au Q Qasair condari.com.au R Radford 1300 692 393; radfordfurnishings.com Reece 1800 032 566; reece.com.au Relax House 1300 307 164; relaxhouse.com.au Resene 1800 738 383; resene.com.au Restoration Hardware restorationhardware.com Robyn Cosgrove (02) 9328 7692; robyncosgrove.com Rossetto Tiles (03) 6326 4955; rossettotiles.com.au Royal Doulton 1300 852 022; royaldoulton.com.au S Samsung 1300 362 603; samsung.com.au Sareen Stone (02) 9736 1833; www.sareenstone.com.au Satara (03) 9587 4469; satara.com.au Scandinavian Wallpaper & Décor (08) 9444 2717; wallpaperdecor.com.au Sea Tribe seatribecollection.com Shades of Light shadesoflight.com Shine Mirrors 1300 797 708; shinemirrors.com.au Simple Studio (02) 9557 4322; simplestudio.com.au Skheme (02) 8755 2300; www.skheme.com
Slip Ceramics slipceramics.com Smartstone 1300 888 607; smartstone.com.au Smeg (02) 8667 4888; smeg.com.au SmithMade (02) 9948 6459; smithmade.com.au SNB Stone www.snb-stone.com South Pacific Fabrics (02) 9327 7222; southpacificfabrics.com Space (02) 8339 7588; spacefurniture.com.au Special Lights (02) 8399 2411; speciallights.com.au Spence & Lyda (02) 9212 6747; spenceandlyda.com.au Spotlight 1300 305 405; spotlight.com.au Stegbar 1800 681 168; stegbar.com.au Stockwells Joinery (02) 8863 1444 Stylecraft (02) 9355 0000; stylecraft.com.au Sublime Custom Cabinetry (02) 9939 6570; sublimecustomcabinetry.com.au Sunrise Pools (02) 8858 4777; sunrisepools.com.au Surface Gallery (02) 9866 2002; surfacegallery.com.au Suzie Stanford 0403 920 450; suziestanford.com.au Sydney Tap & Bathroomware (02) 9550 4628; sydneybathroomware.com.au T Tait (03) 9419 7484; madebytait.com.au Talostone (02) 9698 6666; talostone.com.au Temp Right (02) 9707 3047; tempright.com.au The Aga Shop (03) 9521 4965; www.theagashop.com.au The Bay Tree (02) 9328 1101; thebaytree.com.au The DEA Store (02) 9698 8150; thedeastore.com The English Tapware Company 1300 016 181; englishtapware.com.au The Montauk Lighting Co montauklightingco.com The Pot Warehouse @the_pot_warehouse
Thonet 1800 800 777; thonet.com.au Tile Cloud tilecloud.com.au Tongue N Groove Flooring (02) 9699 1131; tngflooring.com.au Top3 by Design 1300 867 333; top3.com.au Turner Hastings 1300 002 284; turnerhastings.com.au U Unique Fabrics 1800 145 855; uniquefabrics.com Uniqwa Collections (07) 5596 0884; uniqwafurniture.com.au Urban Upholstery urbanupholstery.com V Vergola vergola.com/au Victoria+Albert 1300 737 779; vandabaths.com/aus Victoria Stone Gallery (03) 9702 7539; victoriastonegallery.com.au Villeroy & Boch 1800 252 770; villeroy-boch.com.au Vitkac.com vitkac.com/au Vola (03) 9070 4988; en.vola.com W Warwick Fabrics 1300 787 888; warwick.com.au Waterford Crystal 1300 852 022; waterfordcrystal.com.au Wattyl 132 101; wattyl.com.au Wedgwood 1300 852 022; wwrd.com.au Werner Weis Landscapes wernerweislandscapes.com West Elm 1800 239 516; westelm.com.au Westbury Textiles (02) 9380 6644; westburytextiles.com Whitecliffe Imports (02) 8595 1111; www.whitecliffe.com.au Wignells Heating & Cooking (03) 9417 3315; wignells.com.au Williams Sonoma 1800 231 380; williams-sonoma.com.au Winning Appliances (02) 8767 2301; winningappliances.com.au Wolf, available from Winning Appliances winningappliances.com.au Woodcut (02) 9319 6050; woodcut.com.au WorldStone (02) 9363 3513; www.worldstone.com.au Z Zepel Fabrics 1800 651 510; zepelfabrics.com Zuster (03) 9427 7188; zuster.com.au
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1 Upload your photo at choicesflooring.com.au
2 Choose from hundreds of flooring and rug options
3 See your floor change in an instant!
choicesflooring.com.au
H G the creative type
Marylou Sobel An unwavering commitment to quality and great style underpins everything this Sydney interior designer does. P H OTOG RA P HY Anson Smart
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AUSTRALIAN HOUSE & GARDEN
Artwork by Daniel Nadel Photography. Hair and make-up by Samantha Powell. For Where to Buy, see page 192.
“I knew I wanted to be an interior designer when I was eight.” I grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa, and lived in the same house until I was 21. Our home was designed by the Spanish architect Stefan Ahrends. It was Ranch-style, with unique fittings and fixtures, interesting lighting and a ship’s lantern at the front door. It was beautifully appointed, too, with antique furniture and Persian carpets. My mother was a collector of hallmarked silver, ceramic figurines and the like. Her love of these items influenced me hugely and I organically became a collector myself. When I was 23, I emigrated to Sydney with my husband. No two days in the studio are alike, but they always begin with coffee. One of the exciting aspects of being a designer is having my week unfold creatively. It’ll always be dotted with designing, procuring, client meetings, site meetings and showroom visits. After the Global Financial Crisis in 2009, architects began to engage interior designers within their practices. This had a huge impact on me, because suddenly I found myself with very little work. I had to rethink my business model and work out the best way forward to generate more work. Work/life balance is tricky for all of us, but I found my personal situation quite radically changed when my husband voluntarily took on the responsibility for grocery shopping and cooking. That was about 13 years ago. A career highlight was having my work published in the Andrew Martin Review, Volume 18 in 2015. It’s a bit like the Oscars for designers internationally – only 100 designers from around the world are selected for publication each year. I had three projects appear over six pages – a huge achievement, I think. I’m also proud of the fact that I have had projects appear in H&G’s Top 50 Rooms showcase seven times in eight years. The building of my business has been happening steadily over 24 years; there have been changes, challenges and the rise of social media to navigate. Travel and trips to furniture and fabric showrooms nourish my creativity. So do hard-copy design books and the magazines that I collect and keep. When it comes to architects, designers and artists I admire, there are too many to name. I have always loved the European masters, though, and I think Australia has some incredible artists. I love the work of Clara Adolphs, Marise Maas and Celia Gullett, to name just a few. Architecturally, I am in awe of Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1920s work and the unique style of India Mahdavi. I have just finished reading Sofie Laguna’s book, Infinite Splendours. I’m now midway through The Happiest Man On Earth by Eddie Jaku and next on the list is Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart, the Booker Prize winner in 2020. Designer handbags and shoes are my weakness. My current favourite bag is a Marni ‘Trunk’ colour-block shoulder bag. I also recently pulled out my 15-year-old Louis Vuitton briefcase. I can finally use it as it was intended now that I’m working out of a studio in Sydney’s Woollahra and not from my home office. Right now, my favourite shoes are the Givenchy ‘Urban Street’ white sneakers that have a tan detail at the back. My idea of true luxury is simply ‘quality in everything’. Travel inspires me so greatly. There’s nothing quite like stepping into a chateau in the Loire Valley, France, and finding it steeped in history and still owned and run by the same family as it has been for generations. I have a few ventures I’m keen to explore down the track: maybe having my own podcast and even designing a boutique hotel. I’m lucky to have a wealth of wonderful cafes, bars and restaurants close by. Among my favourites are Sean’s Panaroma and La Piadina in Bondi. And, near my studio, Bistro Moncur, Paddington Alimentari, Fred’s and Charlie Parker’s. # Marylou Sobel Interior Design; marylousobel.com.au.
MARYLOU’S FAVOURITE THINGS From top Trunk shoulder bag, $1950, Marni.
Upside Down oil painting by Clara Adolphs, Hugo Michell Gallery. Infinite Splendours book by Sofie Laguna, $32.99, Allen & Unwin. Givenchy ‘Urban Street’ sneakers, about $400, Vitkac.com.