Fxdvddg by Primaveradeatres

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

AU S T R A L I A N

AM 8 AZ 0 + IN pag G es o HO f M ES E

HOT TO HANDLE! HEAVENLY HARDWARE FOR COOL KITCHENS

LIGHT FANTASTIC The best bathroom buys

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

R ANG E COO KE R S

You can’t beat a Belling For over 100 years, we’ve been proudly leading the market with our selection of high-quality British-made kitchen appliances. Boasting traditional charm and large capacity ovens, our stunning range cookers promise to make a statement in any kitchen.

Also available in:

Visit belling.com.au to view the full collection

" " " " " " " " " " ! " " " " " ! " " " "

" ! "

EDITOR’S LETTER CREATING THE DREAM

PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP RIGHT) KRISTINA SOLJO (MIDDLE RIGHT) SIMON WHITBREAD (BOTTOM RIGHT) DYLAN JAMES

It’s nearly 17 years since we bought our semi near the sea, so I’ve had quite a bit of time to think about the home of our dreams. Back then, we had two little munchkins and after moving from our first home − an apartment − were thrilled with all that space. And there was more to love: the pool under the palm trees I knew the kids would never leave, the light pouring into every room, and that gum tree out front that had me at hello. It was the perfect home for our little family. Working for HB for nearly a decade, I’ve been incredibly lucky to see so many home dreams come to life. I’ve seen beautiful schemes created with soul, fabulous ideas and super-clever floorplans. My favourite ideas have gone straight into an orange manila folder, which I’ve kept for years, as I’ve always known that as our family grew, so would that dream of ours. And after a year that has seen so many changes for so many people − I now have a husband who works from home full-time and two uni students who watch lectures from their bedrooms − we’ve gotten to know our little home very well indeed. We’ve discovered what truly works (the outdoor space, our sun-drenched living room) and where there’s room for improvement (put simply, we need a separate study and another bathroom). So, this month’s ‘Dream Home’ special really could not have come at a better time. On page 142, we’ve spoken to the experts to weigh up the pros and cons of creating your dream where you live now or shopping around to find a new one. For the moment, we’ve decided our forever home could be right here in this sunny spot we love, so we’re scribbling up plans and getting excited. And what’s going straight into my trusty folder? That stunner of a dining room that stars on our cover (see page 58 for the full home tour); the curvaceous kitchen from designer and homeowner Alison’s gorgeous home (page 173) and that divine space from our ‘Beach Pad’ home, because there’s just something about that blue (page 148.) I hope you find as much inspiration in this issue as I have, and I look forward to bringing you so much more in the coming months while our editor-in-chief Elle takes some time to spend with her beautiful new baby boy. Until next month,

BLUE HORIZONS pg 148

A stylish beach pad takes colour cues from its seaside surrounds.

Katrina

KATRINA O’BRIEN, ACTING EDITOR Get in touch with me on Instagram @katrina.obrien36

COVER LOOK THIS DIVINE DINING ROOM HAS US DREAMING OF AN ENDLESS SUNDAY LUNCH. THE EPITOME OF INDOOROUTDOOR LIVING, THE LIGHT-DRENCHED SPACE STARS IN A SERENE FAMILY HOME ON SYDNEY’S NORTH SHORE. TURN TO PAGE 58 FOR MORE INSPIRATION. Photography: Simon Whitbread Design: Smith + Levine Styling: Jessica Bellef

CLASSIC CURVES pg 172

Fresh updates revive a heritage home.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

C ONTENTS

COVER STORIES 102 108 120 126 141

142

Granny flat glam A chic coastal studio designed with wow Light fantastic The best bathroom buys Hot to Handle! Heavenly hardware for cool kitchens Splendour in the grass 10 garden design must-haves The dream homes issue Create your ideal home with real-life inspiration, fabulous before and afters, top tips and clever floorplans Love it or list it? The experts’ guide to finding your forever home

126 BACKYARD

STARS

THE EDIT 17 Collection Robert Gordon’s new range honours its founder 18 In the know What’s hot in design inspiration and in stores 22 Top 10: Tea time The prettiest pots for your next get-together 24 Destination style The Mornington Peninsula’s style secrets 26 Trend: Floral fancy Immerse yourself in delicate prints 28 Designer’s notebook Designer and stylist Bree Leech shares 30 32 39

some of her favourite spots to dine, shop and find inspiration Fragrant affair Spoil mum with perfumed gifts on her special day Creative collection Candle maker Tania Robinson loves scents Mother’s Day gift guide Browse through our edit of beautiful presents to find the perfect way to spoil mum – and yourself

132 CELEBRATE

MUM

HOMES 58 Character building A renovated Victorian home in Sydney’s 68 78 88

Lower North Shore is an elegant and functional triumph Set in stone Transformed into a luxurious country retreat, a rustic farmhouse comes back to life Modern family Built from scratch, this contemporary home in Sydney is the epitome of sophisticated style Heights of joy A Queenslander in Brisbane with views and plenty of natural light is the perfect abode for a young family

DESIGN FILE 102 Guest house luxe Builder Saul Myers joins HB for a house 108 114 120

PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE) CLAIRE MCFERRAN

124

to Home Beautiful journey to create a self-contained studio Bathed in light Brighten a space or create a mood in your bathroom with the perfect lighting Best-laid plans Refresh your living room with our expert guide to creating a zone to suit your needs and style Get a handle Kitchen hardware may be small, but it makes a big difference – we share expert tips for getting it right To fix or not to fix? An expert guide to home loan interest rates

OUTDOORS 126 Top 10 hardscaping heroes Add extra layers and structures to create a truly spectacular outdoor space

ENTERTAIN 132 Pretty in blue Serve up love with our divine dishes for a Mother’s Day celebration to remember

REGULAR FEATURES 9 Ed’s letter HB acting editor Katrina reflects on her dream home 12 Staff Who we are, where to find us and our Privacy Notice 14 Connect What’s happening in the world of HB 186 Unsung icons: Walk-in wardrobe The rise of the giant closet

108 LIGHT

TOUCH

120 PULL

POWER

DREAM HOME SPECIAL 142 Forever dreams Should you renovate or relocate? 148 Salt air and sky A modern makeover transforms a beach pad with dreamy tones of blue 156 Soul revival Passed down through a family, a beloved home sees a new chapter 164 Classic charmer A coastal cottage blends past and present 172 Sleeping beauty With an expert eye, an interior designer turns a Californian Bungalow into a contemporary stunner

ACTING EDITOR Katrina O’Brien ACTING DEPUTY EDITOR Karina Machado SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Katrina Yaxley

A RT & S T Y L E ART DIRECTOR Alice Ierace IMAGE RETOUCHER Matus Kundrat CONTRIBUTOR Paloma Garay CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sandy Dao

F E AT U R E S & C O N T E N T CHIEF COPY EDITOR Sarah Pickette SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR Victoria Kingsbury SENIOR COPY EDITOR Kate Barber COPY EDITOR Laura Barry WRITER Harriet Sim HOMES GROUP COORDINATOR Lyla Levy-Jordan

P R O D UC T I O N TITLE CONTROLLER & PRODUCTION PLANNER Sally Jefferys ADVERTISING CONTROLLER Dominic Roy PRODUCTION EDITOR Tamarah Pienaar

A DV E RT I S I NG GROUP COMMERCIAL BRAND MANAGER Rhonda Maunder (02) 9282 8687 COMMERCIAL BRAND MANAGER Michelle O’Hanlon (02) 9282 8620 BRAND EXECUTIVE Mikayla Skarzynski (02) 9282 8142 ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER Kate Orsborn (02) 9283 8364 NSW DIRECTOR OF SALES Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 SALES DIRECTOR VIC, SA, WA Jaclyn Clements (03) 9823 6341 VICTORIAN HEAD OF DIRECT SALES Will Jamison (03) 9823 6301 QUEENSLAND HEAD OF SALES Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 HEAD OF CREATIVE Clare Catt (02) 8116 9341 NEW ZEALAND ENQUIRIES +61 2 9282 8505

M A R K ET I NG , R E S E A R C H & C I R C U L AT I O N CIRCULATION MANAGER Rob McIntosh MARKETING DIRECTOR Louise Cankett (02) 9282 8730 SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER Jana Williams (02) 9282 8223 BRAND MANAGER Sarah Webster (02) 8268 4436 SUBSCRIPTIONS CAMPAIGN MANAGER Jesvin Vincent (02) 9282 8696 ACTING RESEARCH DIRECTOR Natalie Bettini (02) 8268 8442 SENIOR RESEARCH & INSIGHTS ANALYST Ania Falenciak (02) 9282 8817 ALL MARKETING ENQUIRIES HOMES@AREMEDIA.COM.AU

S Y N D I CAT I O N EMAIL SYNDICATION@AREMEDIA.COM.AU

ARE MEDIA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Brendon Hill FINANCE DIRECTOR David Loeffler EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGER, PUBLISHING & DIGITAL OPERATIONS Sarah-Belle Murphy PUBLISHER Shane Sutton DIRECTOR OF SALES Andrew Cook CUSTOMER DIRECTOR Sally Eagle GENERAL MANAGER, BRANDS & COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS Jane Waterhouse BUSINESS MANAGER Georgina Bromfield

GET IN TOUCH LETTERS TO: Home Beautiful, Reply Paid 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000. EMAIL: homebeautiful@aremedia.com.au Printed by Blue Star Web Print, 1/83 Derby Street, Silverwater NSW 2128. Published by Are Media Pty Limited (ACN 053 273 546), 54-58 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8000. The trade mark Home Beautiful is the property of Are Media Limited and is used under licence. Distributed by Ovato Retail Distribution, 31 Heathcote Road, Moorebank, NSW, 2170. *Recommended price, Home Beautiful. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Are Media Pty Limited does not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. © 2021 Are Media Pty Limited. All rights reserved. ISSN 0004-928X

SUBSCRIPTION SALES AND INQUIRIES visit www.magshop.com.au email magshop@magshop.com.au call 13 61 16, 8am-6pm (AEDST) Monday-Friday post Magshop, GPO Box 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000 Home Beautiful is published by Are Media Pty Limited We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

PRIVACY NOTICE This issue of Home Beautiful is published by Are Media Pty Limited (Are Media). Are Media may use and disclose your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, including to provide you with your requested products or services and to keep you informed of other Are Media publications, products, services and events. Our Privacy Policy is located at www.aremedia.com.au/privacy/. It also sets out on how you can access or correct your personal information and lodge a complaint. Are Media may disclose your personal information offshore to its owners, joint venture partners, service providers and agents located throughout the world, including in New Zealand, USA, the Philippines and the European Union. In addition, this issue may contain Reader Offers, being offers, competitions or surveys. Reader Offers may require you to provide personal information to enter or to take part. Personal information collected for Reader Offers may be disclosed by us to service providers assisting Are Media in the conduct of the Reader Offer and to other organisations providing special prizes or offers that are part of the Reader Offer. An opt-out choice is provided with a Reader Offer. Unless you exercise that opt-out choice, personal information collected for Reader Offers may also be disclosed by us to other organisations for use by them to inform you about other products, services or events or to give to other organisations that may use this information for this purpose. If you require further information, please contact Are Media’s Privacy Officer either by email at privacyofficer@aremedia.com.au or mail at Privacy Officer Are Media Pty Limited, 54 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

=CONNECT HOMEBEAUTIFULMAG

@HOMEBEAUTIFUL

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

PINTEREST.COM/ HOMEBEAUTIFUL

HOMEBEAUTIFUL@ BAUER-MEDIA.COM.AU

THE DAILY HOME EDIT

M AK IN G A N E N T R AN C E This sun-kissed entryway definitely knows how to impress arriving guests, so it was no surprise that it was also our most popular Instagram post this month. For more showstopping spaces follow @homebeautiful.

MEET THE H B T E A M

ME AND HB

How did you get your start in the home and interiors magazine industry? “I have worked on home magazines for almost 20 years now! I loved flicking through Dolly and Cleo magazine when I was younger, and after studying graphic design, I landed my first mag job.” What is your favourite section of HB? “Definitely our homes section! I love seeing the new and inspiring ways people are decorating their homes and how we bring them to life on the pages.” Tell us about your own home decorating style. “I would describe my home as relaxed contemporary Australian, with a subtle nod to tradition.” Do you have a favourite HB feature or cover? “I’m excited about next month’s cover – it’s layered, warm and inviting. So watch this space…” Where is your dream Australian destination? “Uluru. I have never been and would love to go. It’s been on the family getaway list for quite a while.” Where’s your favourite place to relax at home? “Either curled up watching a movie with my family or spending time in my garden – it’s the perfect place to escape and enjoy my beautiful orchids.” If you could create a meal from our ‘Entertain’ pages, what would it be? “Any slow-cooked meal! It’s my favourite thing to do on a Sunday, enjoyed with a glass of red.”

“THE STORE ROOM FAMILY IS FEELING A LITTLE CHUFFED, OUR GORGEOUS LITTLE BUSINESS MADE ITS FIRST APPEARANCE IN PRINT! A BIG THANK YOU TO HOME BEAUTIFUL WHO HAVE A GORGEOUS ARTICLE ON TOOWOOMBA! SO LOVELY TO BE INCLUDED WITH OUR VERY TALENTED NEIGHBOURS TOO.” – @THESTOREROOM_TOOWOOMBA

WHETHER IT’S STYLED ON A COFFEE TABLE OR DEVOURED OVER A CUP OF TEA , WE LOVE SEEING HOW YOU ENJOY READING YOUR COPY OF HB. USE THE HASHTAG #MEANDHB TO APPEAR HERE NEXT MONTH!

Want to share your thoughts and ideas with us? We love to hear from our readers, so get in touch by emailing us at homebeautiful@ bauer-media.com.au. @ROSEHOUSEINTERIORS

LOCAL LOVE

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

@AGLIMPSEOFMYSTYLE

@ENHANCE_HOME_STYLING

PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP LEFT) KRISTINA SOLJO PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP RIGHT) LOUISE ROCHE STYLING KYLIE JACKES

KATRINA YAXLEY, SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

Your Style. Our Tile.

Planum profile in Ghost White With an expansive range of designer styles, timeless colour choices and distinctive finishes – elevate your everyday with La Escandella roof tiles from Bristile Roofing.

OUR WARRANTIES

LEARN MORE AT

bristileroofing.com.au

A BRAND OF

THE EDIT I DISCOVER I DECORATE I STYLE I EXPLORE

COLLECTION POET’S DREAM

Robert Gordon lets history unfold in its new ‘Poet’s Dream’ collection. Paying homage to founder Gordon’s ancestor, Edward Dyson – a proliﬁc journalist, poet and playwright – the collection mixes the family’s artistic heritage with ceramic shapes inspired by designs of the 1980s. Available in a rich chocolate brown and natural cream, the range starts at $49.95 for a serving bowl. See the full collection at Myer, myer.com.au.

IN THE KNOW:

what’s hot OUR ROUND-UP OF THE LATEST DESIGN NEWS, SHOPPING AND DECORATING Edited by HARRIET SIM

Spotlight on: the King’s gambit A nod to the laid-back luxury of the Australian lifestyle, the new Fleur collection from King celebrates the curvaceous form. With distinctive silhouettes, changeable covers and adjustable backrests, the sophisticated range is a lesson in timeless relaxation. From $290 for an ottoman, visit kingliving.com.au.

Artists in residence CALLING ALL ART ENTHUSIASTS! GREENHOUSE INTERIORS HAS ADDED TWO NEW AUSSIE CREATIVES TO OUR WATCH RADAR: PAINTER, GEORGIE DAMM (PAINTINGS ABOVE) AND FIBRE ARTIST, ZOE JONES OF HANDS WEAVE HELLO (WALL HANGING ABOVE). VISIT GREENHOUSEINTERIORS.COM.AU.

IN FULL BLOOM A SWEET ASSORTMENT OF PLAYFUL HUES AND CANDY-LIKE CURVES, THE NEW ‘BALANCE’ VASE, $129, FROM FAZEEK, MAKES MIXING FLORALS FUN. FIND YOUR PERFECT PAIR AT FAZEEK.COM.AU.

THE EDIT

BRICK BY BRICK LAY THE FOUNDATIONS FOR FLAWLESS DESIGN, WITH THE STUNNING NEW SAN SELMO ‘SK1N’ RANGE FROM BRICKWORKS. INFLUENCED BY MODERN ARCHITECTURAL TRENDS WITH AN AUSTRALIAN TWIST, THE COLLECTION IS BOTH STRIKING AND SUBTLE. AS A MULTIPURPOSE MATERIAL, THE TERRACOTTA CLADDING ALLOWS FOR SEAMLESS INTEGRATION FROM ROOF TO WALL, FOR A COHESIVE FINISH. THE ‘SK1N’ RANGE IS AVAILABLE IN SEVEN COLOUR WAYS, INSPIRED BY THE RICH AND VARIED AUSTRALIAN LANDSCAPE, RESULTING IN EARTHY TONES, CLEAN LINES AND UNIQUE FINISHES. FROM $149/SQM. VISIT BRICKWORKS.COM.AU.

Pillow talk A trifecta of comfort, style and quality, new customisable cushion brand Hommey has come up with the perfect pillow formula that’s soft but not saggy. And unlike standard one-size-fits-all inserts, each Hommey pillow is made with high-quality down feathers and hollow fibres, and is custom fit to five different sizes. Handmade on the Gold Coast, fabrics include linen, bouclé, velvet and felt and are available in 48 colours. From $49.90, gethommey.com.

WANT TO PICK THE BRAINS OF THE TOP DESIGN EXPERTS? THE AUSTRALIAN DESIGN CENTRE IS HOSTING FROM APRIL 21 TO JUNE 2 IN SYDNEY. VISIT AUSTRALIANDESIGNCENTRE.COM. A PHOTOGRAPHY (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT) ARMELLE HABIB. (THIS PAGE, BOTTOM RIGHT) CAITLIN MILLS. STYLING (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT) JULIA GREEN FOR GREENHOUSE INTERIORS, ASSISTED BY AISHA CHAUDHRY AND JESSICA RETALLACK. (THIS PAGE, BOTTOM RIGHT) AMBER LYNETTE.

Design 101 Master Class

Magic moments A romantic ode to life’s simple pleasures, Kip&Co’s new Magic Happens range celebrates everyday moments of wonder and joy. Adorned with delicate whimsical ﬂorals, gentle hues of butterscotch, lavender, blush and quince, and made with cotton velvet, French linen, chunky knits, and waffle, the tactile collection reminds us of the importance of touch, and the beauty in simply slowing down. From $89 for a two-piece ‘Laurel’ linen sheet set in green (pictured). Explore the full range at kipandco.com.au. >

LIGHT THE WAY

Stop and smell the roses, or in this case clementines, with Ecoya’s new limited edition ‘Sweet Clementine’ scent. A comforting and feminine blend of sugared clementines and raspberries, with soft ﬂoral and tart quince notes. Atop with a creamy white musk and sandalwood base, the delicate aroma sets a restful ambience. Sweet Clementine Madison jar, $44.95, ecoya.com.au.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

5 MINUTES WITH: KELLE HOWARD

THE EDIT

Prices range from $899 for a mini plinth (left) to $6999 for a dining table.

GOLD COAST-BASED INTERIOR DESIGNER KELLE HOWARD (ABOVE) IS AHEAD OF THE CURVE WITH HER NEW VOLUPTUOUS COLLABORATION WITH OBJECT X Tell us a bit about your collaboration with Object X and what was the inspiration behind the new collection? Kelle: “I met Matt and Emma from Object X when I styled a shoot for [them] last year. We spoke about doing a collab together and made it come to life. I wanted to create pieces that felt organic in nature. I wanted a soft tone that would work well in both masculine and feminine spaces. Each table top has an almost primitive element to them – each shape irregular but smooth – and shaped by hand. Venetian plaster adds a sensory experience to each piece.”

How would you describe your personal interior style? “I describe my aesthetic as raw, coastal, luxe. I’m heavily inﬂuenced by Ibizan architecture and I love raw, textures that make a space feel like it has depth and history.” What’s the best piece of styling advice you’ve received? “Don’t worry about whether it’s in vogue. When I built my own home, the Mediterranean style hadn’t really taken off yet in Australia. [Now there is a] big trend for that style, but I’m not worried that it will go out of fashion because it truly represents me and that’s what matters the most.” Explore the full range at objectx.com.au.

SHOP WATCH: Plant charmer

WHETHER YOU’RE A BUDDING GREEN THUMB OR A HORTICULTURAL ENTHUSIAST, NEW MELBOURNE PLANT RETAILER, PLANT CHARMER, IS HERE TO HELP YOU GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY, AND TRANSFORM YOUR HOME WITH BEAUTIFULLY STYLED PLANTS.

Nestled on a quiet commercial strip in East Brunswick is an unassuming urban oasis brimming with foliage and wonder. The new Plant Charmer store is an organically curated space, featuring locally made ceramics that have been styled with plants to show customers how they could style their own homes with gorgeous greenery. Visit 149 Nicholson St, Brunswick East, Victoria or online at plantcharmer.com.au.

BOOK CLUB A DIMINUTIVE SPACE NEED NOT LIMIT YOUR DESIGN CAPABILITIES. INDULGE IN 150 BEST OF THE BEST APARTMENT IDEAS BY FRANCESC ZAMORA MOLA AND ENJOY BOUNDLESS INSPIRATION FROM WITHIN THE FOUR WALLS. FROM $49.99, HARPER COLLINS.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP LEFT) KRISTIAN VAN DER BEEK. (BOTTOM LEFT) STONE HOUSE STUDIO. (TOP RIGHT) LAURA MAY GROGAN.

What is your favorite piece from the collection? “I adore [the dining table] ‘Object 01’, which I have in my own home. Natalie Bassingthwaite recently purchased ‘Object 02’ (pictured below) for her new home and the curves look sensational.”

5114 Calacatta Maximus™

Remarkable. Durable.

Uniquely crafted & highly durable, Calacatta Maximus™ turns a surface into a contemporary artwork.

A complex layer of authentic oversized soft grey-beige and delicate copper veining caresses a pure white base.

Enhanced by our natural matte ﬁnish, Calacatta Maximus™ evokes the unique beauty of the mineral layers found in nature.

THE EDIT

4 8

TOP 10:

6 10

Tea time

TURN A CATCH-UP INTO AN OCCASION WITH THESE PRETTY POTS Compiled by KATRINA YAXLEY

1. ‘Oiva’ Tiiliskivi teapot in Dark Green/Terra, $135, Marimekko. 2. ‘HAV’ teapot, $799, Royal Copenhagen. 3. Bonnie and Neil teapot in Evergreen, $80, T2. 4. Ralph Lauren ‘Garden Vine’ teapot in Indigo, $345, Palmer & Penn. 5. I-Wares teapot, $88, Design Casa. 6. ‘Renaissance Red’ teapot, $329, Wedgwood. 7. Round teapot in Steel, $179, Mud Australia. 8. Bordallo Pinheiro ‘Cabbage’ teapot, $185, Magnolia Interiors. 9. Teas & C’s ‘Silk Road’ teapot with infuser, $39.95, Maxwell & Williams. 10. Bornn enamelware ‘Marble’ teapot in Mint, $70, The Berry Tea Shop.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

THE EDIT

DESTINATION STYLE:

Mornington Peninsula, Vic WE EXPLORE AUSTRALIA’S MOST EXCITING DESIGN AND STYLE DESTINATIONS Words CHRYSTAL GLASSMAN

ith its rugged wilderness, coastal vistas and lush hinterland, Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, just one hour’s drive from Melbourne, is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Whether you want to breathe in the fresh sea air at a cute-as-a-button seaside village, explore the peninsula’s stunning national parks or go on a gourmet tour of artisan produce, wineries, breweries and distilleries, a trip to this little slice of heaven is in order.

eat 1. Doot Doot Doot at Jackalope Step inside and you can’t help but stare at the 10,000-globe ceiling installation by lighting designer, Jan Flook. The canopy, which is intended to evoke the sensation of fermenting wine, is just the start of your food journey in the one-hatted restaurant. Visit: 166 Balnarring Rd, Merricks North. Bookmark: jackalopehotels.com.

2. Many Little Bar & Bistro Brought to you by the owners of Polperro Winery, Many Little Bar & Bistro offers modern Asian cuisine drawing on head chef Gayan Pieris’s Sri Lankan heritage, as well as produce from Polperro’s organic farm. Visit: 2-5/159 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill South. Bookmark: manylittle.com.au.

SHOP

3. Sandarne Swinging open its doors in 1996, lifestyle store Sandarne is reﬂective of owner Natasha Riley’s passion for quality homewares, and her love for natural tones and textures. Some of the many wonderful gems you can ﬁnd here are artworks by Tim Freeman, The Raconteur candles and beautiful Cultiver linens. Visit: 147 Ocean Beach Rd, Sorrento. Bookmark: sandarne.com.au.

4. RED HILL HOUSE WHEN JOSIE ACHERMANN STARTED WORKING AT RED HILL HOUSE MORE THAN 14 YEARS AGO, SHE WASN’T EXPECTING TO TAKE IT OVER NINE YEARS LATER. JOSIE STOCKS A RANGE OF LOCALLY SOURCED, AUSTRALIAN-MADE AND -DESIGNED PRODUCTS THAT HAVE BEEN LOVINGLY CRAFTED. VISIT: 169C SHOREHAM RD, RED HILL. BOOKMARK: REDHILL HOUSE.COM.AU.

STAY 5. Jackalope This brilliantly executed ﬁve-star hotel − set in Willow Creek Vineyard − reﬂects the passions of owner Louis Li (of Black Star Pastry) for design, art, food and storytelling. Visit: 166 Balnarring Rd, Merricks North. Bookmark: jackalopehotels.com.

6. Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill

Thoughtfully designed by Hecker Guthrie, Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill is a modern take on a charming European country hotel that has a distinct Australian touch. Visit: 142 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill. Bookmark: lancemore.com.au.

FEATURING VALLEY VIEWS OF THE 14 HECTARES OF GARDENS AND VINES THAT SURROUND THE PROPERTY, LANCEMORE LINDENDERRY RED HILL COMPRISES 40 CURATED GUEST ROOMS, A CELLAR DOOR AND A RESTAURANT.

“THIS PLACE IS TRULY ONE OF VICTORIA’S GEMS _ THE SCENERY IS SPECTACULAR”

PHOTOGRAPHY (DOOT DOOT DOOT AND JACKALOPE) SHARYN CAIRNS, (RED HILL HOUSE) @LOVETHEPEN, (LANCEMORE LINDENDERRY RED HILL) RHIANNON TAYLOR, (PT. LEO ESTATE SCULPTURE PARK) ANSON SMART. TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN STATES AND TERRITORIES MAY BE IN PLACE TO HELP PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19. CHECK HEALTH.GOV. AU BEFORE YOU BOOK OR TRAVEL

~ KATRINA O’BRIEN, HB ACTING EDITOR

7 EXPLORE 7. Wineries Some of the must-visit wineries in this cool-climate wine region include Ten Minutes by Tractor, Port Phillip Estate and Polperro Winery. All three have cellar doors but also have restaurants where you can be served up a delicious lunch or dinner while having a glass – or two – of the fruits of their labour. Bookmark: tenminutesbytractor.com.au; portphillipestate.com.au; polperrowines.com.au.

8. Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park Consisting of some 60 large-scale sculptures set against the shimmering backdrop of Western Port Bay, Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park is the vision of Melbourne-based collectors and philanthropists John and Pauline Gandel. Visitors can take a relaxed stroll along a series of meandering paths to take in the magniﬁcent international and local art. While at Pt. Leo Estate, make sure you visit one of its three restaurants, ﬁne diner Laura, Pt. Leo Restaurant or the Wine Terrace. Visit: 3649 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Merricks. Bookmark: ptleoestate.com.au/sculpture-park.

Worth a visit Make the most of your trip and add these extra food, wine and shopping hot spots to your must-visit list

Zen Living

Red Gum BBQ

Visit: 70 Main St, Mornington Bookmark: zenlivingmornington.com.au

Visit: 87 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill Bookmark: redgumbbq.com.au

Saltbox

Rare Hare Wine & Food Store

Visit: 29 Main Street, Mornington Bookmark: saltboxhome.com.au

Visit: 166, Balnarring Road, Merricks North Bookmark: rarehare.com.au

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

THE EDIT

2 1

7 9

8 TREND:

floral fancy STROLL THROUGH FIELDS OF FLOWERS WITH THESE BLOOMING-BEAUTIFUL LOOKS Compiled by ALICE IERACE

1. The Strawberry Thief cushion with velvet reverse, $70*, Poppy And Honesty. 2. Cole & Son ‘Court Embroidery’ wallpaper in Parchment, $359/10m x 52cm, Natty & Polly. 3. Liberty cocktail napkin in Adelajda Blue, $154.27*/set of 4, Courtland & Co. 4. Delilah laminated-birch tray, $44.92*/27cm x 20cm, Liberty. 5. Frilly Circle placemat in Liberty ‘Tana Lawn’ fabric, $57.50*, Coco & Wolf. 6. Liberty London ‘Thorpe’ cotton pillowcase, $109/50cm x 75 cm, Amara. 7. Betsy linen napkins, $89.83*/set of 4, Liberty. 8. Gucci x Liberty ‘Tennis 1977’ canvas sneakers, $920, My Theresa. 9. Lab ‘Poppy Forest’ duvet in Multicoloured, $351/130cm x 200cm, Smallable. 10. Poppy & Daisy Sky lined A5 notebook covered in ‘Tana Lawn’ fabric, $39.95, Clementine & Co.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

*ALL INTERNATIONAL PRICES ARE BASED ON EXCHANGE RATES AT THE TIME OF PRINTING

Check out our cleaning products!

8 designs now available with acoustic backing For more inspiration visit polyflor.com.au

THE EDIT Bree Leech (left) uses her interior-design skills as a creative consultant for editorial, advertising and interior styling projects, such as the trend spaces she created for Laminex (8). Visit breeleech.com.

1 8

DESIGNER’S NOTEBOOK:

bree leech MELBOURNE DESIGNER, STYLIST AND TRENDSETTER BREE LEECH REVEALS HER FAVOURITE PLACES TO VISIT, SHOP AND FIND INSPIRATION What’s on your wish list right now? “A Carmen ‘MKII’ Chair in Kelly Wearstler ‘Graffito’ from Arthur G and Sabine Marcelis’ Ice Lavender ‘Soap’ table (7).”

7 6

What are your favourite Australian brands or designers? “I’m always looking for new Australian designed and made product. A few of my go-to brands are Grazia & Co, Jardan (3), Dowel Jones, Volker Haug, Dean Norton, Arthur G and Capra Designs (5).” Where’s your favourite place to shop? “Bungalow Trading Co (6) is the perfect destination for colourful homewares, art and fashion; I usually manage to find something for myself while sourcing beautiful things for shoots or interior projects.” Visit: 149 Martin St, Brighton, Vic. Bookmark: bungalowtradingco.com.au. “Having loved working with Designstuff for so long as an online destination, I was excited to see their St Kilda showroom come to life; it’s a beautiful backdrop to their growing curation of homewares and furniture.” Visit: Shop 1/3-5 St Kilda Rd, St Kilda, Vic. Bookmark: designstuff.com.au. Where do you go to find vintage furniture? “The ‘one-off’ nature of vintage adds an edge to a project, and Modern Times (1) have such an amazing selection, it’s one of my first stops. Castorina & Co (2) specialise in unique pieces sourced from Italy – and Italian vintage is my weakness!” Visit: Modern Times at 311 Smith St, Fitzroy, Vic; and Castorina at 202 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Vic. Bookmark: moderntimes.com.au; castorina.com.au

Assorted planters (5), from $95, Capra Designs. Nelly table lamp in Oat Ceramic (4), $819, Jardan.

Where is your favourite place to dine out? “It’s good to have a change of scenery by grabbing the laptop and working out of one of my local cafes. Boosa has great coffee and amazing food with the bonus of a well-designed interior.” Visit: 716 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East, Vic. Bookmark: boosa.com.au.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

3 4

PHOTOGRAPHY (BUNGALOW TRADING CO) SUZI APPLE. (DESIGNSTUFF) SIMON SHIFF SAYS. (MODERN TIMES) ELISE SCOTT. (LAMINEX) DEREK SWALWELL. (CASTORINA & CO) SHARYN CAIRNS

The beautiful Designstuff showroom (above), is an extension of the well-known brand’s online offering, which specialises in modern Scandinavian homewares, art and toys.

THE EDIT

fragrant affair INDULGE MUM WITH SPRITZES AND SCENTS THAT CAPTURE THE WOMAN AT THE HEART OF OUR HOMES Compiled by HARRIET SIM Styling LISA BURDEN Photography KRISTINA SOLJO

1 4 3

2 5

7 6

12 10

11 14

1. Inessence ‘Flora’ ultrasonic diffuser, $79.95, Myer. 2. Ayu x Anna Vardendorff incense holder, $80, and incense, $30, both Ayu. 3. ‘Melograno’ soap, $25/100g, Santa Maria Novella. 4. Carrière Frères lavender room spray, $79/200ml, Adore Beauty. 5. Hand cream, $40/400ml, Mecca. 6. Jo Malone ‘Fresh Fig & Cassis’ candle, $165/300g, Myer. 7. Maison Margiela ‘Bubble Bath’ candle $95/165g, Mecca. 8. ‘Oceania’ room diffuser, $189/250ml, Santa Maria Novella. 9. Cire Trudon ‘Reggio’ candle, $135/270g, Libertine Parfumerie. 10. Officine Universelle scented stone, $115/120g, Mecca. 11. Diptyque ‘Baies’ scented oval, $90, Mecca. 12. Tealight, $29.95/6cm, Iittala. 13. ‘Cocon de Sérénité’ candle, $119/450g, L’Occitane. 14. Incense set, $65, Maison Balzac. 15. Jo Malone ‘Frangipani Flower’ cologne, $102/30ml, David Jones.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

THE EDIT

CREATIVE COLLECTION:

smells like home THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SCENTS OF THE AUSTRALIAN BUSH INSPIRED TANIA ROBINSON’S ARTISANAL CANDLE BRAND SOUTHERN WILD CO Story & styling JESSICA BELLEF Photography SUE STUBBS

AT A GLANCE Who: Tania Robinson, founder and creative director of artisanal candle brand Southern Wild Co. What she does: Celebrates Australia’s landscape and culture using the evocative power of scent. Where: Central Tablelands, NSW. Why she does it: “I want to bring the raw beauty of Australia into your daily rituals.” Visit: southernwildco.com.au Follow: @southernwildco

t was during a visit to the Art Gallery of New South Wales in 2017, when graphic designer Tania Robinson had her lightbulb moment. Wandering through the Australian Impressionists room, moved by the emotional expression of colour and light she saw in the artworks, Tania was struck with a vivid thought. She turned to her gallery-going friend and asked: “How amazing would it be to capture the scents in these paintings, the fragrances of the Australian landscape?” It was a proposition that brought Southern Wild Co, an artisanal candle brand based in the NSW Central Tablelands, to fruition. But the seed was planted many years before. Tania grew up in the Illawarra, a region south of Sydney that’s hugged by kingfisher-blue ocean and dense, green escarpments. “I had a wild childhood, playing in the bush and having the freedom to go for swims at the beach; everything was pristine and clean,” she reminisces. As an adult, Tania lived in the UK for 10 years, returning home regularly to check in with her family and friends. She soon realised she missed the clarity of the Australian light and the raw beauty of the landscape. “I think it takes travelling to the other side of the world to discover that you have an appreciation of home,” Tania muses. She also discovered a gap in the market for sophisticated, beautiful souvenirs that truly represented Australia. “I wanted to buy things to take back to my British friends that gave them a sense of what it was like here,” she explains, but the options were limited. Fast forward to 2017, when, after many years working as a graphic designer in the consumer goods and corporate sectors, the inspired creative set out to reconnect with nature by building a library of candle scents that celebrated the spirit of our land. Tania has learnt many lessons since starting the brand. “I naively thought I could just pour candles and put essential oils in them and it would work,” she says. “It’s a lot more complicated than that. > TOP LEFT Sample jars and finished products cover Tania’s workbench. TOP RIGHT A landscape artwork by Tania and a vintage painting of wattle decorate an old timber hutch filled with candles. BOTTOM RIGHT Art and creative expression are integral to the story of Southern Wild Co. OPPOSITE Tania, pictured, tests scents and wax types in her rustic shed known as the ‘Shedquarters’.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

There are so many variables with making candles, and I didn’t realise that going in.” Tania teams up with Australian perfumers and essential oil suppliers who have helped guide her with the chemistry of candle making. Still, the first spark of a new concept always begins with her vision. Each candle fragrance is richly layered and triggers a wisp of lingering nostalgia, evoking visions of smoky campsites, misty gullies, or the salty freshness of a deep, inky sea. “To me, scent has always been such a powerful thing that arouses emotions and memories,” says Tania. Southern Wild Co is soaked in inspiration. Creative expression via art and poetry is at the core of the range and each candle concept. “I want to give people the feeling of what it’s like to live here, not just through the fragrance, but also through every visual aspect, from the packaging to social media and marketing,” says Tania. References run from iconic bush poets, such as Dorothea Mackellar, through to the Heidelberg School art movement, and contemporary artists in tune with the land, such as Allira Henderson and Llewellyn Skye. A rich narrative of Australiana is palpable in the Shedquarters, the old shearing shed from which Tania and her growing team work. Forget Google, a simple mud map and intuition are your best bets for finding the rustic outbuilding perched on farmland just outside of a village in the heart of NSW, wedged between thick pine forest and eucalypt-dotted rolling hills. “Based out here, the Shedquarters has become the core of my creative life, and it influences me daily,” says Tania. “The light, the sense of the bush, and the freedom. They are the parts of Australia that I want to share.” TOP LEFT: Boris the chocolate labrador accompanies Tania on daily bushwalks. “I’ve always been in touch with nature, and that’s what I really missed when I lived in the UK,” shares Tania. TOP CENTRE & RIGHT: Tania continuously researches the art of fragrance blending. BOTTOM LEFT: “Painting and drawing is a way for me to observe the landscape,” the multi-talented designer shares. An easel is set up by a mood board wall filled with magazine tear sheets and copies of Australian Impressionist paintings. OPPOSITE: Tania sets high standards for every aspect of the brand, from the fragrances to the packaging design and marketing.

THE EDIT

“I WANT THE CANDLES TO BE A LITTLE BIT OF LUXURY FOR YOUR HOME” ~ TANIA

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

Your Style. Our Tile.

OUR WARRANTIES

LEARN MORE AT

bristileroofing.com.au

A BRAND OF

THE EDIT

LUXE BUY

THE HB EDIT

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

IT’S THE DAY TO CELEBRATE THE MOST-CHERISHED WOMEN IN OUR LIVES, SO WE’VE CURATED COVETABLE GIFTS TO SPOIL MUM – AND YOURSELF Compiled by KAYLA GEX

5 7

8 9

1. ‘Fiore’ floor lamp, $499.95, Albi. 2. Aerin porcelain gilded ‘Gardenia’ 18k gold-plated flower, $359, Palmer & Penn. 3. HK Living ‘M’ ceramic jar in White Speckled, $69, House of Orange. 4. ‘Aina’ linen and cotton dress, $319, St. Agni. 5. ‘Merhaba’ hemp cushion in Black/Brown, $135/55cm x 55cm, CLO Studios. 6. Aerin ‘Sancia Gourd’ ceramic and gold vase, $435, Palmer & Penn. 7. Mini weave sling bag in Cream, $69.95, Seed Heritage. 8. Bold pearl drop earrings, $105, Mejuri. 9. ‘Komodo’ shell ornament, $175, Coco Republic. 10. Continental Designs ‘Phoebe’ cushion ottoman in Light Beige, $164, Temple & Webster. 11. Wooden candlesticks, $26/pair, Cedar Lilly. 12. L’Occitane ‘Uplifting’ home perfume, $39/100ml, The Iconic. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

3 “FORGET THE FLANNELETTE PJS AND CHOOSE A GIFT THAT’S AS SPECIAL AS YOUR MUM. THINK , AND ONLY THE FINEST QUALITY”

and tasteful

4 5

chic

~ KATRINA O’BRIEN, ACTING EDITOR

2 6 10

8 9 LUXE BUY

11 14

1. Minna Goods ‘Albers’ cotton table runner, $89, Okay. 2. Raawii ‘Storm’ earthenware jug in Coral Blush, $129, Okay. 3. Dana Kinter ‘Galah’ cotton robe in Dusk, $100, Adairs. 4. Art Cube puzzle in Valencia, $20, Journey of Something. 5. Clover ‘Seville Multi’ linen tea towel, $39/70cm x 50cm, Bonnie and Neil. 6. ‘Lenox’ swivel office chair in Blush, $549, West Elm. 7. Designworks Ink boxed pen in Dusty Pink, $29.95, Add to Cart. 8. Fasano Ceramiche dinner plate in Pink, $85, CLO Studios. 9. ‘Donkey 39*28’ computer carrier in Dusty Pink, $69, Pony Rider. 10. HK Living 70s storage jar in Tropical, $79, House of Orange. 11. Ace of Something ‘Lerici’ boater hat, $69.95, The Iconic. 12. ‘Sierra’ cushion in Dusty Rose Check, $59.99, Adairs. 13. Ester & Erik ‘No.51’ candle in Magnolia & Blackcurrant, $150, Great Dane. 14. Homebodii ‘Florence’ velvet slippers in Blush, $129.95, The Iconic. 15. Hecho ‘Jipi’ palm fan in Clay Pink, $49, Okay.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

THE EDIT

2 1

LUXE BUY

4 5 6 7

12 11 9

1. ‘Sorrento’ table lamp in Terracotta, $310, Few & Far. 2. ‘Lucet’ dress, $119.99, Sheridan. 3. ‘Zura’ highball glass in Ruby Red, $17.95, Country Road. 4. Moroccan tadelakt candle holder in Terracotta, $59, Cedar Lilly. 5. ‘The Mini Resin’ watch in Tan/Nougat, $139, The Horse. 6. Tort resin comb in Mixed Tortoiseshell, $14.95, Seed Heritage. 7. Sophie Conran striped heavyweight cotton glove, $65, Father Rabbit. 8. Louenhide ‘Alexis’ vegan leather weekender bag in Shiraz, $119.95, The Iconic. 9. Reusable bag in Clay Geo, $3/medium, Adairs. 10. ‘Cali’ woven basket in Blush, $59.95, Papaya. 11. Clover ‘Foxglove’ oat linen cushion in Nutmeg, $220/75cm x 45cm, Bonnie and Neil. 12. Kip&Co ‘Bubble’ slippers in Raspberry, $39, Add to Cart. 13. Hawkins New York ‘Terra’ clay mug in Terracotta, $29, Okay. 14. Brian Tunks cut glass bowl in Blush, $89/mini, David Jones. 15. Personalised wallet in Burgundy, $109.95, The Daily Edited. >

THE EDIT

“WHY NOT CHIP IN WITH SIBLINGS AND GIFT MUM WITH SOMETHING SHE’S BEEN C OVETING? LIKE

a one-of-a-kind item

OR PIECE OF ART” ~ VICTORIA KINGSBURY, SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR

10 LUXE BUY

15 11 12

16 13

1. Salt & Pepper ‘Finesse’ ribbed vase, $44/large, Domayne. 2. ‘Flowerpot VP1’ pendant in Light Blue by Verner Panton, $500, Cult. 3. Gidon Bing citrus juicer, $59, Good Things Store. 4. ‘Chambray Tile’ stoneware serving platter, $94, Pottery Barn. 5. ‘Apples and Primrose’ framed print, $149.95/63cm x 63cm, Provincial Home Living. 6. Gingham & Wax beeswax wrap, $35, Good Things Store. 7. ‘Zephyr’ bowl in Fog Grey, $109/large, Urban Eden. 8. Glass dome in Smoke, $100, Lumira. 9. Ralph Lauren ‘Garden Vine’ pitcher in Indigo, $185, Palmer & Penn. 10. Fine Little Day ‘Swimmers’ serving tray in Turquoise, $85, Papa Sven. 11. Mother’s Day gift subscription to Home Beautiful, from $69.99/12 issues, magshop.com.au/mum22 (see p.98). 12. ‘Becoming’ book by Michelle Obama (Viking), $37.75, Booktopia. 13. Ellis Brooklyn ‘Salt’ eau de parfum, $160/50ml, Mecca. 14. Salted Caramel Crunch chocolate bar, $5.75, Loco Love Chocolate. 15. Initial keyring, $14.95, Seed Heritage. 16. Bent Design ‘Imola’ outdoor teak bar cart in Matt Midnight Blue, $895, Huset.

1 2

4 3 LUXE BUY

8 7

10 9

15 12

LUXE BUY

1. ‘Serengeti’ cushion, $59/48cm x48cm, Domayne. 2. ‘Zivah’ linen cushion in Zivah Forest, $125, Coco Republic. 3. ‘Saudade’ scented candle, $49, Black Blaze. 4. Reflections Copenhagen ‘Diamond’ mirror, $1600/72cm x 100cm, Jardan. 5. Yin ‘Tigmi’ yoga mat, $119, Milligram. 6. ‘Longma’ ceramic ginger jar, $149.95, Provincial Home Living. 7. Kivari ‘Yara’ floral maxi dress in Apple, $229, Call Me The Breeze. 8. ‘Day Twenty-One’ phone case, $40, Jamie Beck. 9. ‘Tamegroute’ fruit bowl in Ochre, $79, CLO Studios. 10. This is Incense ‘Margaret River’ incense sticks, $36, Koskela. 11. ‘Dogs on Doorsteps’ book by Suzanne Stevenson (Affirm), $39.99, Provincial Home Living. 12. ‘Talas’ armchair, $2486, Smith Made. 13. ‘Flying solo’ tote bag in Khaki, $279, State of Escape. 14. Brian Tunks cut glass beaker, $32, David Jones. 15. ‘Pasca’ teapot, $96, Cisco & The Sun. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

THE EDIT

4 “FLOWERS ARE LOVELY, BUT

gifts she’ll appreciate forever PACK A

SENTIMENTAL PUNCH ~ KARINA MACHADO, ACTING DEPUTY EDITOR

LUXE BUY

13 12

1. ‘Live Beautiful’ coffee table book by Athena Calderone (Abrams), $60, Coco Republic. 2. ‘Calo’ cotton robe in Charcoal, $129, Country Road. 3. ‘Matilda’ bone china entree plate, $13.95, Robert Gordon. 4. Large resin organic bangle in Black, $85, Dinosaur Designs. 5. Paper Collective ‘Black Pants’ print by Amelie Hegardt, $69, Papaya. 6. Bergs Potter ‘Copenhagen Castle’ terracotta pot and saucer in Glazed Black, $75, Papa Sven. 7. Reality Eyewear ‘Strict Machine’ sunglasses in Turtle, $69, Add to Cart 8. ‘Kaimu’ hat in Island Capri , $175, Lorna Murray Apparel. 9. Diptyque ‘Orpheon’ eau de parfum, $243, Mecca. 10. Crystal dome with brass plate, $170, Leilah. 11. Ilve ‘Nostalgie Series Pro Line’ stainless steel cooker, $5199, Harvey Norman. 12. Canvas 13” laptop case in Black Grid Check, $29.99, Typo. 13. Women’s vintage 3-speed bicycle in Classic Gloss Black, $569/50cm, Chappelli.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

WINTER IS COMING ST YLISH, VERSATILE AND ENERGY-EFFICIENT, TRUST W YNSTAN’S CELLULAR SHADES TO KEEP YOUR HOME AT A PERFECTLY COMFORTABLE TEMPER ATURE YEAR-ROUND.

“CELLULAR SHADES CONSERVE ENERGY Air pockets trap heat

BY TRAPPING AIR IN THEIR HONEYCOMB CELLS, CREATING AN EXTRA POCKET OF INSULATION”

Thanks to their unique honeycomb-cell interior, which creates pockets of insulation, Wynstan Cellular Shades can help you save up to 32 per cent* on your heating costs during winter or summer.

NEED NEW BLINDS? Finding stylish and aﬀordable blinds, doors, shutters and awnings is easy with Wynstan. For 53 years the Australianowned family business has been providing expert advice and custom-made, durable window and door treatments.

ynstan’s Cellular Shades deliver more than just shade, privacy and a sophisticated look: they can also help you save on your heating and cooling bills. As smart as they are elegant, Wynstan Cellular Shades conserve energy by trapping air in their honeycomb-cell interior, creating an extra layer of insulation within the blind, so you don’t have to go straight to the heater to warm your living

areas this winter. The custom-ﬁtted versatility of Cellular Shades means they can be adapted to windows of any dimension – even horizontal skylights and angled loft windows – and they hug so closely to the window edges that light gaps are virtually eliminated and noise is reduced. Wynstan Cellular Shades are also surprisingly strong and durable, making them the perfect window treatment for your home.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION, VISIT WYNSTAN.COM.AU OR CALL 1300 667 679 *Savings are based on the installation of fully-recessed, reveal-mounted 20mm single-cell blockout fabric in an average home in Sydney, compared with the House Energy Rating standard of Holland Blinds from AccuRate in that home. These calculations have been modelled by an independent third party. Savings will vary based on window type and installation.

Enjoy a free in-home measure and quote to start your transformation with Wynstan.

H A R V E Y N O R M A N F R E E S T A N D I N G

C O O K E R S

Complete with microwave combination oven, warming drawer and six gas burners with griddle plate, the Miele freestanding cooker is a cook’s dream. Operation is easy via the touch controls or by swiping the multicoloured TFT touch display.

THE ULTIMATE IN SPACE Cooking with variety is no challenge with the Miele Dual Fuel 122cm freestanding cooker. Enjoy the best of both worlds with six gas burners and griddle plate, along with two oven cavities so you can separate dishes and vary temperature control while preparing simultaneous recipes. The warming drawer allows for plates to be gently heated ahead of serving – or for maintaining heat in ﬁnished dishes. The streamlined design looks perfectly at home in any modern entertainer’s kitchen.

MOISTURE PLUS

122CM FREESTANDING COOKER IN STAINLESS STEEL

120CM WALL MOUNTED RANGEHOOD

HR 1956 G

DA 4228 W

$32,999

$3,799

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

Moisture Plus helps ensure optimum baking and roasting results by adding extra moisture during the cooking process. Meat is tender and succulent inside with a delicious crust on the outside, while bread and rolls are soft yet perfectly browned.

H A R V E Y N O R M A N F R E E S T A N D I N G

C O O K E R S

Bring a touch of elegance to your new kitchen with the copper beauty of the ILVE Majestic freestanding cooker. Its unique Italian design brings together fresh white enamel with copper plated styling and detailing, along with the latest cooking technology.

STYLE STATEMENT Harnessing the Italian passion for cooking and generosity with food, the ILVE Majestic is the perfect partner for entertaining. Savour the cooking experience and handmade craftsmanship that will help bring your cuisine to life. The cooker’s generous proportions allow you to cook entrees, mains and desserts all at once. Featuring durable brass burners with central wok burner, ﬂame failure sensor and TFT oven touch controls, the ILVE Majestic is also compatible with both natural and LPG gas.

PREMIUM EXTRACTION

120CM FREESTANDING COOKER IN WHITE AND COPPER

120CM MAJESTIC CANOPY RANGEHOOD IN WHITE

M12SDNE3WHP

$23,999

Featuring four speeds, LED lights and 175W infrared heat globe, the 120cm ILVE Majestic Canopy Rangehood provides powerful extraction with whisper quiet noise. Choose classic stainless steel or match to your kitchen cabinetry from up to 213 custom colours.

AM120/WH

$5,999

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

H A R V E Y N O R M A N F R E E S T A N D I N G

C O O K E R S

A ﬁrst in freestanding cookers, the Nexus Steam by Falcon features a dedicated steam cavity in addition to multifunction separate cavities. Bakers will love the dedicated bread proving drawer.

KITCHEN BRILLIANCE There is no limit to what you can cook with the 110cm Nexus Steam at your ﬁ ngertips. Encapsulating the latest in cooking technology – all within one freestanding unit – it offers both the power of electric and gas cooking. The right-hand oven also offers the precision of cooking with steam. For cooktop functionality, the ﬁve gas burners and ceramic zones with hot plate provide the option to boil, fry, sauté or steam multiple dishes at once. Homemade bread and pizza will rise to perfection with the temperature-controlled bread proving drawer.

NEXUS STEAM FREESTANDING COOKER IN BLACK NEX110SODFBL/CH

$14,984

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

AT A TOUCH Enjoy the latest oven technology along with dualfuel sources at the touch of a button. Switch between cooking functions and timers with an easy-to-navigate touch LED screen.

H A R V E Y N O R M A N F R E E S T A N D I N G

C O O K E R S

MADE IN ITALY

smeg.com.au

The sky’s the limit with the Smeg Portoﬁno 120cm freestanding cooker, which features a steam-assist oven, pyrolytic oven, three-burner cooktop, induction teppanyaki plate and a separate multi-zone induction plate.

FORWARD THINKING Roast, bake and steam with ease in the two 60cm ovens with new induction bridging function which allows you to operate two zones with one control. On the six-zone cooktop it’s the ultimate in versatility with induction and gas (including a wok burner) plus an electric teppanyaki plate. The left Thermoseal pyrolytic oven embodies technical excellence with ten cooking functions including supercook, fan grill, bakers function and convection. The multifunction oven on the right features nine cooking functions including direct steam which delivers unparalleled cooking results and reduces food shrinkage. The Portoﬁno Freestanding Cooker is available in black, turquoise, and stainless steel.

120CM PORTOFINO PYROLYTIC FREESTANDING COOKER IN TURQUOISE CPF120IGMPTA

$13,990

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

BEST IN DESIGN Smeg’s unique Thermoseal design inhibits the exchange of air between the interior and exterior of your oven, reducing the drying eff ects of vented air on your food and improving energy effi ciency. The pyrolytic function makes it incredibly easy to clean, saving time and the need for harsh chemicals.

H A R V E Y N O R M A N F R E E S T A N D I N G

C O O K E R S

Space will never be an issue with this amazing 110cm induction range cooker with three separate cooking cavities. There is no compromise on what and when you cook – or size of pans – thanks to ﬁve generous induction cooking zones.

HEART AND SOUL Make the Falcon Classic freestanding induction cooker the centrepiece of your kitchen. Its classic styling and simple rotary chrome ﬁttings convey the warmth of a country kitchen, while the latest technology surpasses ovens of the past. Enjoy the choice of two electric ovens for your simultaneous roasting, baking or slow cooking, while the induction cooktop offers ﬁve spacious induction cooking zones. Also includes a storage drawer to conveniently house trays and oven dishes for easy access.

ALL THE FEATURES Simplify your cooking with thoughtful design features to maximise results and minimise error. Features residual heat indicators, pan detector, child lock on hob, dual-circuit glide-out grill, rear and side catalytic oven liners (left oven) for easy cleaning and side-opening porthole doors.

CLASSIC INDUCTION FREESTANDING COOKER IN CRANBERRY CLA110EI5CY/CH

$10,394

SHOP ONLINE WITH YOUR LOCAL STORE HN.COM.AU/FREESTANDING OR CALL 1300 464 278 Harvey Norman® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Ends 31/05/2021.

HOMES

PHOTOGRAPHY SIMON WHITBREAD ARTWORK BY UNKNOWN ARTIST

THE STORIES, STYLE AND LOVE THAT MAKE A HOME BEAUTIFUL

CHARACTER BUILDING page 58

CHARACTER BUILDING A POLISHED 19TH-CENTURY HOME ON SYDNEY’S LOWER NORTH SHORE DELIVERS LASHINGS OF ELEGANCE AND FUNCTIONALITY FOR A FAMILY OF FIVE Story & styling JESSICA BELLEF Photography SIMON WHITBREAD

HOMES SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL The North Shore Sydney home Fleur (pictured opposite) shares with

her husband Phil and children Grace, 11, and six-year-old twins Max and Maddie is a celebration of indoor-outdoor living. With the feel of a Parisian bistro, the dining area (this page & opposite) is a place for relaxing and entertaining for all ages. “When we have friends over, I want it to be ‘grown up’ but still casual so the kids can use this space without me worrying if someone is going to spill something!” says Fleur. Thonet ‘No. B9’ chairs and lighting in the form of a Douglas & Bec ‘Line’ pendant and a CTO Lighting ‘Array’ sconce from Spence & Lyda centre on a French oak table found in an antique store in New Zealand (for similar, try Maison Living). >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

HOMES

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

BOOKSHELVES (OPPOSITE) PAINTED IN DULUX HEIFER FRINGED CUSHION AURA OTHER CUSHIONS KAS ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

ringing an older property into the modern era takes masses of patience and a steadfast vision. For heritage-home lover Fleur, the intricacies of the renovation process are always worth the character-filled outcome. The home she shares with her husband Phil and their three children, Grace, 11, and six-year-old twins Max and Maddie, is her fourth renovation project. The five-bedroom Victorian home in Sydney’s Mosman has been given a fresh start, with a polished original exterior and a historically minded modern interior. “I used to call it ‘The Cream Shack’ because everything inside and outside was cream,” says Fleur. When the couple first viewed the property in 2013, the potential shimmered through those beige layers and decades of unceremonious updates. “Phil liked the size and tall ceilings, and I liked the style and the history of it,” explains Fleur. “I could see the beauty in it, but the layout was horrible and it had been added to and butchered.” Fleur realised that, with the right team, she could bring back the original 1890s charm, creating a family friendly home that was, in her words, “beautiful but not precious”. She and Phil engaged Helga ten Brummelaar of DTB Architects to strip the home to its authentic self and design a complementary layout that worked for family life. Fleur and Helga delved deep into the local council archives to uncover the property’s story. “I think it’s important to do that before you do something detrimental to the house,” says Fleur. “If you change it too much, you ruin it and lose something you can never bring back.” The DA was approved in 2016, just as the family made a temporary move to New Zealand for Phil’s work. Their Mosman charmer was rented out, but Fleur never stopped planning. She started to design the interiors in 2018 before deciding it was too tricky to complete remotely and reached out to interior designers Louise Smith and Talia Levine of Smith + Levine. They conducted design presentations over Skype and FaceTime and posted samples for Fleur’s approval. The duo designed the beautiful kitchen and three bathrooms, as well as the joinery and lighting plans, and formed a cohesive finishes palette that fell in line with Fleur’s brief of “sophisticated but pared back”. Upon returning to Australia in 2019, Fleur, Phil, Grace and the twins lived in a nearby rental while BeareBuilt expertly turned the renovation around in a tight nine-month schedule. The upper level was extended, the ground floor received a layout shake-up and loads of custom cabinetry, joinery and classic finishes were added. The family happily moved back into their home in April 2020, and Fleur is just as happy to report that life in the updated Victorian has exceeded all expectations. “The biggest fear when you first start the renovation process is that you will design spaces that don’t get used – but we use everything here!” she says. That’s the success of this home. All of it is functional as well as beautiful.”

LIVING AREA “Everybody tried to make the back part of the home totally open plan, but I said no because open-plan spaces are always so noisy,”

says Fleur. Tucked away behind a wall, the living area is kept cosy with a fireplace finished in veined ‘Concordia’ honed marble from Artedomus, an ‘Agra’ rug in Juniper from Armadillo and wall lights from Lighting Collective. A casual timber coffee table (try Trit House) and sturdy seating from Jardan is childproof – son Max can be seen reading on the ‘Miller’ sofa in Meadow (opposite, bottom). Fleur chose the large tonal abstract artwork by Libby Mewing here for its soothing colour palette, while the framed photo of Al Pacino (below) was a gift from former workmates. MUD ROOM Calm tones continue with cabinetry in Dulux Waltzing and a ‘Statuario Maximus’ marble bench seat top from Caesarstone in the regularly used mud room (opposite, top). >

HOMES KITCHEN A seamless design by Smith + Levine has a bespoke island as its centrepiece. “It has different details and hardware to the rest of the

kitchen and is intended to feel like a custom piece of timber furniture,” explain the designers. CDK Stone supplied the ‘Bianco Carrara’ honed marble for the benchtops and splashback, and oak veneer was chosen for the island base to match the oak floorboards from Woodos seen throughout the ground floor. Fleur added &Tradition ‘In Between SK7’ stools from Cult. “The colour match is perfect, and the curves work with the island,” she says. A skylight and sash windows bathe the space in light (opposite). Shaker-style cabinets in Dulux Heifer and brass Perrin & Rowe ‘Ionian’ tapware from The English Tapware Company complete a refined look. Dulux Natural White was the colour choice in all the living spaces.

beautiful

“YOU DESIGN THINGS BECAUSE YOU WANT THEM TO LOOK , BUT YOU ACTUALLY HAVE TO USE IT ALL, TOO!” ~ FLEUR

lovely

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

WE LOVE...

sash windows

BOWL ON ISLAND (OPPOSITE) McMULLIN & CO ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Vertically sliding sash windows are often found in period homes and promote controlled airflow. Add historic charm to a new build with a timber style, or consult a specialist to restore original frames and glass panels. Stegbar is a good place to start. Visit stegbar.com.au. >

MAIN BEDROOM The soothing main bedroom (above & opposite) has been painted in Dulux Tranquil Retreat, with ‘Tussore’ wool carpet in Madder from Bremworth underfoot. The Create Estate bed frame and the window-seat upholstery have been finished with Westbury Textiles fabrics for an elegant touch. Pinstripe bedlinen from In Bed and cushions from No Chintz hint at pattern, while the ‘Terra O’ wall light from Marz Designs and Ikea ‘Gladom’ bedside table add contrast. Get the pannelled look (behind bedhead) with Easycraft ‘EasyVJ’ boards from Bunnings. WALK-IN ROBE Custom joinery

designed by Smith + Levine, painted in Dulux Endless Dusk, are key features to this swoon-worthy space (left), while a vintage painting gifted by Fleur’s father is a sweet addition. GUEST BATHROOM Curves

appeal in this petite yet chic space (top left), with a custom mirror designed by Smith + Levine and a ‘Happy D.2’ pedestal washbasin from Duravit. Teranova ‘Crackle’ finger tiles, Carrara marble from CDK Stone and aged brass ‘Olde English’ fittings from Astra Walker provide the backdrop. >

ARMAC MARTIN BRASS HANDLES AND DRAWER PULLS (LEFT) THE ENGLISH TAPWARE COMPANY BLUE VASE (OPPOSITE) MCMULLIN & CO ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

HOMES

FLOOR PLAN GROUND FLOOR

FIRST FLOOR

BED

ENS

BED

DINING

FAMILY

BED

LOUNGE

KITCHEN

PANTRY L’DRY

clean

BATH

FOYER

minimalist

MAIN BED

STUDY

DEN

WIR

“THIS HOUSE C OULD HAVE BEC OME QUITE , BUT I WANTED A DESIGN, WITH JUST A LITTLE BIT OF FUSS!” ~ FLEUR

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

HOMES SOURCE BOOK INTERIOR DESIGN

Louise Smith and Talia Levine, Smith + Levine, smithandlevine.com.au. ARCHITECT

DTB Architects, (02) 9565 5300, dtbarchitects.com.au. BUILDER

Michael Beare, BeareBuilt, 0420 245 311, bearebuilt.com.au. JOINERY

Benchwood Joinery, benchwoodjoinery.com.au.

ENSUITE “We mixed muted tones and unpolished brass, knowing it will patina and age,” say interior designers Smith

+ Levine, who designed swivelling mirrors to work around the existing window placement. ‘Casa’ handmade wall tiles in Grey Chine from Onsite Supply + Design were crucial in the home’s design process – Fleur carried one around in her handbag for months, using it as reference for other design decisions. The ensuite comes together with Carrara marble, brass fittings from Astra Walker, subway tiles from Skheme and a ‘Compact 2.0’ wall light from Douglas & Bec.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

MODERN CLASSIC

2 3

1 INSIDE STORY FLEUR & PHIL’S HOME WHO LIVES HERE?

Fleur, a media manager; her husband Phil, who works for Microsoft; daughter Grace, 11, and six-year-old twins Max and Maddie. WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST SPLURGE?

Fleur: “My awesome Mercury chef’s oven by Falcon from New Zealand (try AGA). I had to talk Phil into it, but it gets used all the time.” YOUR FAVOURITE MATERIAL USED IN THE HOME? “The Carrara marble.” WHAT IS LEFT TO DO? “I would like to add

more blinds. I am not good with curtaining. I find it all a bit frou-frou!” WOULD YOU CHANGE ANYTHING? “I had lots of time to think and plan, so… no!” WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ROOM?

ARMAC MARTIN BRASS DRAWER PULLS (OPPOSITE) THE ENGLISH TAPWARE COMPANY VASE TEMPLE & WEBSTER ARTWORK (TOP RIGHT) BY UNKNOWN ARTIST ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

“I do love my pantry with a secret door because no-one can find me when I am in there. Plus, I can hide the mess!”

5 6 7

1. A Jacobean-era console from an antique store in New Zealand (try 1st Dibs) pairs with an MCM House mirror in the entry. 2. Daylight in the kitchen is enhanced by a skylight and walls in Dulux Natural White. 3. In the dining area, a CTO Lighting ‘Array’ sconce from Spence & Lyda. 4. The pool is edged in limestone tiles. 5. Daughter Grace at the dining banquette, which is upholstered in ‘Ascona’ leather in Tobacco from Pelle Leathers. 6. Exteriors in Dulux Monument create an inviting outdoor dining area. Try Domayne for similar furniture. 7. ‘Zelij’ porcelain wall tiles and worn, concrete-look ‘Rawtech’ floor tiles, both from Di Lorenzo, spruce up the laundry.

SET IN

STONE A HERITAGE FARMHOUSE HAS BEEN REIMAGINED AS A LUXURIOUS COUNTRY RETREAT IN PERFECT HARMONY WITH ITS PAST AND FUTURE Story LORI COHEN Photography WARREN HEATH

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

STORY COURTESY OF BUREAUX PRODUCTION SVEN ALBERDING

HOMES

HISTORY LESSON With stripped-back timber and exposed stone walls, this centuries-old farmhouse can be seen in its truest form after architect and

homeowner Greg and his wife Nancy, restored their farmhouse to its former glory. As you enter the front door, an expansive central room appears – the living room – which Greg has expertly defined with smart furnishings. The kitchen and two bedrooms lead off this space, so the flow of the room needed some thought. “The semi-circle sofa I designed for the lounge goes some way in connecting the rooms,” says Greg. Try the ‘Adele’ curved modular sofa in Ink Grey from Coco Republic, for similar. Drawing the eye up, is a standout chandelier from Greg’s company, Okha. For similar, try the ‘Black Modo’ 12-light replica glass chandelier from Temple & Webster. In one corner, a vintage red table and chairs (opposite) are used as a work station, where the couple capitalises on the warmth of the fire. More vintage store purchases form a vignette alongside a painting by Lynn Chadwick. >

HOMES

ith a reputation for designing trailblazing buildings across the globe, architect Greg and his wife Nancy chose to use a different design muscle when they took on the renovation of a 200-year-old farmhouse. Instead of putting their own spin on the structure, or adding a contemporary extension, they breathed new life into the property in the most respectful way. “The idea was always to keep what I found on the farm as pure as possible,” says Greg, who with Nancy, shares the home with the couple’s children Zwiki, 21, Luca, 17 and Shama, 13. Lured by the charming farmhouse in Buffelsdrift – a small farming district nestled in the middle of South Africa’s Klein Karoo (Little Karoo) – Greg embarked on a design and renovation process that spanned four years, and would transform the neglected property into a working olive farm. A muddle of outbuildings came as part of the package, but Greg saw their potential early on, earmarking an old wine store as a guest house. One of the renovation challenges Greg faced, was that some of the additions to the existing buildings weren’t done particularly sensitively. The couple can verify the farmhouse dates back to 1852, when what is now the kitchen would have been a small flat-roofed structure. “I wanted to strip the farmhouse back to what it was, and let it sit in a less encumbered way in the landscape,” says Greg. The historical buildings had been constructed by a poured earth method and been covered with various types of plaster over the years. Greg collaborated with architect Jaco Booyens who had experience working on remote sites as well as an interest in building with clay and earth. Peeling back the layers was the first step. “We stripped the walls first to assess the state of the mud structures, which were then repaired with clay collected from the property’s irrigation dam, which had been the source of the original material used,” explains Greg. Since the floor was in bad repair, Greg used local poplar floorboards, and the original yellowwood ceilings were cleaned. The poplar pole roof structure was fixed and all original dowel fixings kept. Fortunately,

the original thatch structure had been retained and a specialist thatcher was able to restore the roof, consistent with the home’s original Cape Dutch vernacular architectural style. Gables and sash windows were repaired and internal poplar shutters were added. Greg kept poplar lintels above the doors, leaving elements of the construction history visible. The commitment to the restoration’s purity scooped SAOTA (Greg’s architecture firm) and Jaco Booyens Architect a gold medal at the International Domus Restoration and Conservation Awards in Italy. Thanks to the thatched roof and thick earth walls, the thermal qualities of the building are amazing. “Even when it’s 40 degrees celsius outside, the house remains cool inside,” says Greg. Greg designed a series of terraces outside to “knit everything together”. “It was really just wild, so I wanted to shape the spaces to make sense with the buildings,” he explains. “The idea was to grow a new orchard around the house to create a series of livable spaces.” The area is now densely planted with olive trees, which will eventually form an avenue, and shroud the farmhouse with shade and privacy. Inside, Greg carefully considered the design, with the lounge forming the heart of the main farmhouse. “These houses weren’t designed with passages,” says Greg. They only had rooms connected to each other.” Doorways off the lounge lead to two bedrooms and the kitchen. Another smart design decision to connect the rooms was to install a double fireplace, linking the lounge and kitchen. The house has a very particular character. “I wanted to feel like there was some furniture that had always been here, along with new pieces,” says Greg. While respecting the home’s heritage, it didn’t prevent Greg and Nancy from adding a fresh perspective with African collectibles marrying with Cape antiques and contemporary pieces. International accolades aside, the triumph of this beautiful home is that it retains the essence of its heritage while feeling like it is very much of the now. The result – harmony, which is just what Greg and Nancy wanted in their Karoo refuge.

KITCHEN & GUEST HOUSE From mounted African masks to olive-green dining stools, it’s in the kitchen (above) where the couple’s eclectic choices

reflect the evident fun they had in pulling the project together. Greg designed and installed a raw poplar table, which hugs a terrazzo island, polka-dotted with stones ranging from terracotta to black, complemented with a framed black-and-white photograph by Greg. Similarly, extensive work was done on the simple farm outbuilding, originally used to store wine, but is now a guest house (opposite), neatly poised on the new olive tree orchard.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

WE LOVE...

textured walls

Greg and Nancy’s walls are beautiful and completely unique, but if you’re not game enough to tackle earth or lime plaster walls, there are all sorts of clever paint products that allow you to achieve different textured finishes. Try Porter’s Paints Premium Acrylic Stone Paint, or Bauwerk Lime Paint. Check them out at porterspaints.com and bauwerk.com.au. >

HOMES

MAIN BATHROOM & GUEST HOUSE ENSUITE

Greg replaced the bathroom roof with a concrete slab with skylights embedded (right) – “a modern interpretation of a mud roof,” he says. In keeping with the poplar used throughout the home, simple timber structures were installed, and stone basins emphasise the bathroom’s cavernous feel. The poplar washstand was designed by Greg. In the ‘pink’ guest house, a patio with a door was removed and a series of windows were added to create a light-filled ensuite bathroom (opposite & below). Poplar wood shutters and a simple poplar wood table running the length of the wall (and designed by Greg), keeps the space simple and uncluttered, while a laser-cut metal ceiling adds a contemporary edge. Try Matt Blatt for a similar stool and Stone & Rock’s basins are a good match. >

FLOOR PLAN

POOL

KITCHEN

GUEST

HOUSE

MAIN BED

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

LIVING

BED

PORCH

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM

BATH

poplar

“I LOVE THE THAT WE DESIGNED. THE INTERIOR SPACE OF THE PUMP HOUSE IS MAGICAL”

screens

~ GREG

“IT WASN’T APPROPRIATE TO JUST USE IN A HOME THAT IS CENTURIES OLD”

modern

furnishings

~ GREG

HOMES

MAIN & SECOND BEDROOMS The bedrooms, two generous spaces that flank opposite sides of the living room, are dominated by four-poster beds

and embellished with textured choices and quirky finds. Nancy also added personal touches, making cushions out of fabrics that the couple have collected over time. The main bedroom (opposite) has a timeless feel, with a Cape Dutch antique riempie bench and warm tones providing a strong accent against the poplar floorboards and the striking photograph by Greg, above the bed. Much of the furnishings reflect Greg and Nancy’s love of African fabrics and crafts. The second bedroom (above) also has generous proportions – grand enough to host a four-poster bed and the home’s signature mix of Cape Dutch antiques and mid-century modern finds. For a similar rug, try the ‘Nakuru’ floor rug from Freedom. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

HOMES SOURCE BOOK ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN

Greg Truen, SAOTA, saota.com Jaco Booyens Architect, rysmierberg.com LANDSCAPING

Fritz Coetzee, Insite Landscape Architects, insitegroup.co.za CONTRACTORS

Pro-Projects, pro-projects.co.za

OUTSIDE The traditional gables and thatched roof are significant features of the farmhouse, which Greg renovated using traditional building methods. The cobbled area between the outside study and kitchen in the main house is ideal for eating under the stars or huddling around the firepit on cold nights. “In summer we head outside in the evenings when it cools down,” says Greg. “We sit here and watch for shooting stars and satellites.”

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

RURAL RUSTIC

2 3

1 INSIDE STORY GREG & NANCY’S HOME WHO STAYS HERE?

Greg, architect, director of SAOTA, ARRCC and OKHA, his wife Nancy, mental health practitioner, and their children Zwiki, 21, Luca, 17 and Shama, 13, plus their Boston terriers, Blue and Lola. WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST RESTORATION CHALLENGE?

Greg: “Building with earth was challenging but very rewarding. The building has an authenticity that is very unusual.” WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE FEATURE?

“I love the poplar furniture and screens that we designed.” YOUR FAVOURITE ROOM?

4 1. A clumsily constructed concrete staircase was removed and replaced with a contemporary fabricated staircase, with a laser-cut screen, designed by Jaco. 2. Greg and Nancy sit at the permanent glass and steel table, inspired by a tree stump found in the garden. 3. The original yellowwood ceiling beams dominate the living room. 4. Greg fashioned a shower out of the original chimney in the bathroom. 5. A collection of West German ceramicware in the guest house. 6. Creating a series of terraces, and planting a substantial number of trees, Greg reclaimed dusty spaces around the home. 7. Tapestries hang in a corner of the master bedroom.

“Oddly enough our favourite space is the courtyard outside of the kitchen. We spend long evenings here. It’s quite magical.”

5 6 7

MODERN FAMILY WITH AN EYE FOR BOTH PRACTICALITY AND POLISH, ONE CLEVER SYDNEY COUPLE BUILT THEIR DREAM HOME FROM SCRATCH Story KATHRYN MADDEN Styling FIONA GOULD Photography NAT SPADAVECCHIA

HOMES PERFECT BALANCE Homeowners Veronica and Mark took a thoughtful

high/low approach to designing the south-west Sydney home they share with their one-year-old twins, Mila and Willow. “I like to invest in high-quality furniture,” says Veronica, referring to the King Living ‘Jasper’ sofa, paired with Globe West ‘Elle’ coffee tables in the living room (opposite). Laminate flooring from Preference Floors continues through to the dining area (this page), which boasts soaring ceilings thanks to a void, plus a replica Lindsey Adelman Agnes pendant from Zest Lighting. The American oak table was custom-made, its rich black stain providing a foil for the vivid artwork, Farmer by Remy Prideaux. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

KITCHEN The hub of the home (this page & opposite) is also a haven of calm, designed to keep clutter at bay. The star of the space is the island bench, a curvy custom creation by Vision Kitchens & Joinery featuring engineered stone benchtops – Talostone in Super White – plus polyurethane VJ panelling below painted in Dulux Vivid White. Shots of black come via the ‘James’ bar stools from Interior Secrets, Reece ‘Mizu Drift’ tapware and Schweigen rangehood. Yet the slick space is anything but sterile, with streams of natural light and a fragrant olive tree in the corner.

HOMES

KITCHEN “I’m not a chef but I do enjoy cooking,” says Veronica,

pictured above with her husband Mark and their one-year-old twins, Mila and Willow. “I find myself in the kitchen more than ever before, cooking for two little babies. It’s also a great space for entertaining – we have the family gather around the island bench, and if a girlfriend comes over she can pull up a bar stool and we open a bottle of wine.” >

FLOOR PLAN FIRST FLOOR

ID ER

ENS

L’DRY

BATH

BE D

HE TC

GARAGE

WIP

BA TH

MUD

FA M

IL Y

MEDIA

STUDY

M BE AIN D

GROUND FLOOR

BA TH

WIR BE

ENTRY

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM KITCHEN ACCESSORIES TARA DENNIS STORE ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

he week Veronica and Mark moved into their home was life-changing in every way. “Two days later I gave birth to our baby girls,” recalls Veronica. “We came home with a new family to a brand new house – albeit with no kitchen sink! It was overwhelming, but really special.” Eighteen months earlier, the couple had purchased a sizeable block of land (1030 square metres) in a quiet suburb in south-west Sydney. As the founders and owners of King Homes NSW, Veronica and Mark had designed and built countless custom homes for clients, but this was their first opportunity to create their own abode from the ground up. “It was a different experience – we got to really think about how we live and what would work for us,” explains Veronica. The pair’s vision was simple but considered: a liveable family home that made good use of the land and boasted eco credentials. Top of the priority list was a solar panel system and double-glazed windows on the north-facing back of the property, followed by a focus on durable materials. “We had little ones on the way and we didn’t want to be precious, worrying about dogs or heels scratching the floor,” says Veronica, who worked with Mark, a builder, on the design. Built over nine months, the result is a striking two-storey, fivebedroom home that balances practicality with panache. A kitchen, living and dining area is at the heart of the action, defined by monochrome hues and bountiful storage. “The kitchen is definitely a favourite space,” comments Veronica, pointing to the “secret” butler’s pantry behind custom-made cabinetry and the marble-look Talostone benchtops. (The couple was so committed to this material that they paused construction while it was out of stock – hence the missing kitchen sink on move day – but it was worth the wait.) Upstairs, the bedrooms are awash with colour and softer textures – including a sweet space for the girls, Mila and Willow. Out the back, a tiled alfresco area and infinity pool is a magnet for gatherings. Decorating, says Veronica, is a hobby she’s honed. “I love mixing timeless designer pieces with department store finds to stretch the budget,” she explains. But above all, her philosophy centres on streamlined style. “It’s all about good, built-in storage solutions – we like living in a home where things seem organised, tidy and consistent.” That said, the year that followed the family’s whirlwind move in December 2019 didn’t necessarily lend itself to order. As the world went into lockdown, Veronica, Mark and their girls spent more time in their new home than they’d ever anticipated – and loved every moment. “We’d really taken the time to create a home to perfectly suit our family and lifestyle – and it does,” reflects Veronica. “We plan to stay here for a really long time.”

LIVING PORCH

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

cohesive style

“Consistency is key,” says Veronica, adding that using the same materials reduces waste, too. Here, polyurethane VJ panels on the wall mimic those used in the kitchen and main bedroom, and the American oak cabinet is topped with the same Talostone used on the kitchen counters; visit talostone.com.au.

black, white and

“A PALETTE OF NEEDN’T BE BORING, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU BRING IN LOTS OF TEXTURE” ~ VERONICA

grey

SITTING ROOM & HALLWAY The formal

living room at the front of the home is a vision of monochrome magic, with walls painted in Dulux White on White and steel doors powder-coated in Dulux Colorbond Monument. The cladding in the entryway adds interest and dimension – “We didn’t want an artwork in the entryway so this is a nice alternative,” says Veronica – while a rare hint of pattern comes courtesy of the graphic floor rug; try Temple & Webster’s Grey Diamond Flat Weave Wool-Blend rug for similar.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

WE LOVE...

HOMES

SITTING ROOM “I love to sit in here

and read a book,” says Veronica of this cosy retreat. “The doors create a vacuum seal so it’s really quiet.” The custom-made sofa by BB Furniture is just the thing to sink into and is scattered with plump cushions and accompanied by a sleek glass-topped coffee table (try James Said for similar styles). If guests arrive, one might pull up the occasional chair – a replica Harry Bertoia ‘Diamond’ from Replica Furniture – and admire the vibrant swirls of Heaven, another piece by South Australian artist Remy Prideaux. >

HOMES

(above) stays true to the couple’s clean and simple design ethos. A ‘Luna’ basin from Caroma sits atop easy-to-clean Talostone and custom-built American oak joinery, while large-format porcelain floor and wall tiles enhance the sense of space. The Reece ‘Mizu Drift’ tap brings a bolt of black, a recurring theme throughout the home. And the masterstroke: a recessed shaving cabinet offering slimline storage. PLAY ROOM This open-plan zone on the second-storey landing (above right) might often be strewn with toys, but it’s still inherently stylish, kitted out with a custom-made sofa by BB Furniture, an ‘Omni’ ottoman from Temple & Webster and a Brenda Meynell artwork. GIRLS’ BEDROOM “I wanted to keep this space pretty neutral,” says Veronica of Mila and Willow’s nursery (right). A wall painted in Dulux Dieskau is adorned with stickers and name plaques from Rockmelon Xo, then finished with custom wainscoting painted in Dulux White on White. The elegant details continue with Pottery Barn Kids’ ‘Fillmore’ convertible cots.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

BATHROOM Swathed in natural tones, the main upstairs bathroom

MAIN BEDROOM How to conjure drama, depth and softness all at once? Take notes from Veronica and Mark’s bedroom,

which centres on a striking panelled feature wall in Dulux Monument. “We chose it instead of a bedhead,” explains Veronica. “There’s a huge window on the opposite facing wall, so it’s still really light and bright.” The dark tones are also countered by luscious teal and navy bedlinen – Morgan & Finch velvet designs from Bed Bath N’ Table – plus Beacon Lighting bedside pendants (try the ‘Create’ style for similar), which lend a dose of contemporary cool. >

“EVERYONE TOLD ME NOT TO COLOUR, CHOOSE THIS BUT IT ADDS A LOT OF DEPTH”

dark wall

~ VERONICA

HOMES

ALFRESCO Entertaining is a breeze in this

SOURCE BOOK

chic outdoor area, which overlooks gorgeous greenery. A custom-made table is paired with graphic outdoor chairs from Dick Smith, but the pool, constructed by King Homes NSW, is the main drawcard. “We live 50 kilometres from the CBD, which means it gets hot,” says Veronica. “The pool’s been a very worthwhile investment.”

HOME DESIGN AND BUILD

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

King Homes NSW, (02) 8795 0022, kinghomesnsw.com.au. JOINERY

Vision Kitchens & Joinery, 1300 954 711, visionjoinery.com.au.

CHIC FAMILY LIVING

2 3 INSIDE STORY VERONICA & MARK’S HOME WHO LIVES HERE?

Veronica, a HR manager; her husband Mark, a builder; their twin daughters Mila and Willow, one; Juicy the pug-cross and Stella the ragdoll cat. WHAT INSPIRES YOU CREATIVELY?

Veronica: “International interior designers who create contemporary homes. We often see these trends flow into Australia.” HOW DOES YOUR HOME FUNCTION THROUGH THE SEASONS?

“We focused on materials that provide thermal efficiency. CSR Hebel allows our home to remain cool in the warmer months, and retain warmth in the cooler months.” ANY GO-TO INTERIORS SHOPS?

“King Living for its contemporary designs. I also like IKEA, Adairs and Target.”

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

6 7

1. An upholstered bedhead by BB Furniture is the hero of the guest bedroom. 2. Talostone in Super White adds luxe appeal to the kitchen benchtop. 3. The powder room features a door painted in Dulux Rainmaker. 4. Porcelain ‘Terrazzo’ tiles from Stoneworld feature in the guest bathroom. 5. Vessels from Papaya and Target. 6. Custom shelving in Polytec Woodmatt Black epitomises stylish storage. 7. With a super functional layout, the laundry features Polytec Woodmatt Black cabinetry.

HOUSE ON THE HILL Surrounded by bougainvillea and views of Mount Coot-tha, the Queenslander of Brisbane homeowners Annette (pictured,

opposite) and Ryan brims with beauty, love and the laughter of their little ones, Rosie, four, and Eddie, one. The living area had to be childproof, so the bespoke sofa was covered in a robust fabric by Zepel and sits on an outdoor rug from Armadillo. “The right outdoor rugs feel as soft as indoor rugs but can be taken outside and hosed down,” says the home’s interior decorator, Tahn Scoon. Cushions in Christian Fischbacher ‘Clash’ and Christopher Farr ‘Carnival’ in Green lighten the palette, while a throw by Bianca Lorenne invites snuggling. A trio of ‘Series 04’ bone-inlay boxes by Tantra Imports and a black-stained tray atop the ‘Oslo’ coffee table by Xavier Furniture add dark elegance, while family photographs emphasise the welcoming feel. >

HOMES

HEIGHTS OF JOY BLESSED WITH NATURAL LIGHT AND SWEEPING VIEWS, A GRAND OLD QUEENSLANDER TURNS A NEW PAGE FOR A YOUNG BRISBANE FAMILY Story ANNABELLA GORDON Styling TAHN SCOON Photography JOHN DOWNS

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

heir shared story spans more than two decades, but high-school sweethearts Annette and Ryan are also one in their passion for the signature house that defines their home city of Brisbane. “Before we had kids, we lived in a beautiful Queenslander, which we loved, but it was completely unsuited to family living,” says Ryan. So the couple began the hunt for a Queenslander that combined the character features they adored with a family-friendly layout. “We hoped to find the perfect move-in-ready house, but that didn’t happen,” explains Ryan. “We did, however, find this beautiful 100-year-old home and loved it instantly.” Although recently renovated, the inner-suburbs home presented some layout challenges, but the couple were won over by its traditional architectural details, soaring ceilings, natural light and views forever. “Ryan has always wanted to live on acreage, whereas I’ve always loved the city, so a suburban block that’s minutes from the city but with undulating mountain views is the perfect compromise,” says Annette. Engaging Greg Ward of GMW Projects, the builder who’d done the earlier renovation, Annette and Ryan set about updating their home, conscious that Queenslanders are notorious for idiosyncratic nooks and oddly shaped spaces. “We wanted every room to have a purpose, and its own storage – we didn’t want any space to be wasted,” says Ryan. “A good case in point is the craft nook, which we previously didn’t really use.” The most striking change has been in the opening-up of the main living area and kitchen, while the old deck was closed in to become a dining area and a former bedroom reclaimed as “the fireplace room”. “Guests walk past the little character rooms at the front and suddenly the open kitchen is revealed,” says Ryan. “It gets a great reaction.” Outside, a spacious new deck makes entertaining a dream. “We love to socialise and love to transition guests from space to space,” says Ryan. “We usually start with nibbles at the island, then it’s dinner on the deck, wine in the dining and, finally, port in front of the fire.” As a finishing touch, they called in interior decorator Tahn Scoon of Tahn Interiors. “I met Tahn at a workshop and knew she’d be the perfect fit for what we wanted – a beautifully styled home that wasn’t at all precious and could easily accommodate kids,” says Annette. After all, it was their hearts’ desire to find the ideal nest for their children – Rosie and Eddie – that led them to this home, which so graciously enfolds the past and future. “This is our family’s forever home,” says Annette. “I was pregnant with Eddie throughout the reno. He arrived just as it was completed, so it all came together at the same time. After all that work, it’s now lovely to just sit back and watch the kids enjoy the space.” KITCHEN “It’s a little bit country, a little bit city – which is a reflection

of Annette and I,” notes Ryan of the partially renovated kitchen (right). They retained the existing Kauri-topped island bench and Hamptons-like cabinetry by Viva Cabinets but added contemporary touches such as the Dekton ‘Olimpo’ ultra-compact surface by Cosentino for the waterfall benchtop, tapware from Brodware’s ‘Winslow’ collection, ‘Miami’ stools from Naturally Cane and Studio VC ‘Aspen’ lights from The Montauk Lighting Co. “The original paper shades were too creamy, so we swapped them for white linen,” says interior decorator Tahn Scoon. For a selection of timber buffets for the dining area, try Harvey Norman. >

HOMES

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

ENTRY Its footprint may be humble but the foyer (left) makes an impact, thanks to its height and natural light. Decorated with a space-saving ‘Oslo’ hall table by Xavier Furniture, while discreet storage comes in the form of a seagrass basket from Tribe Home and a trio of ‘Mocca’ bone-inlay boxes from Tantra Imports. The art is by renowned local artist Courtney Brims, an old school friend of Annette’s, while the ‘Brentwood’ table lamp from Emac & Lawton enhances the classic feel. Walls throughout are painted in Resene Half Bianca.

FLOOR PLAN FIRST FLOOR

GROUND FLOOR

MAIN BED

TERRACE

WIR

SITTING

L’DRY

FAMILY

ENTRY

BED

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

BATH

STUDY CRAFT NOOK LIBRARY

WIR

PW’DR BATH

BED LIVING

DINING

KITCHEN

ENS

BED TERRACE

BED CARPORT

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

ROSIE’S BEDROOM A simple backdrop (below) is sweetened by splashes of colour, with custom cushions in Schumacher fabrics by Tahn Interiors and Pillow Talk bedlinen. Annette found the Three Balloons art print on Hardtofind, and the ‘Floating-the-Skies’ ornamental balloons at Temple & Webster. “Having all the walls and main furniture white means we can easily and affordably update the decor as she grows,” says Annette, “but for the moment, it’s all about pink!” >

WE LOVE...

crafty corners

A craft-paper dispenser and crayon box has proven invaluable in the craft nook. “It’s so handy – I can set Rosie up instantly without having to run around finding paper and crayons,” says Annette, “and it keeps all the mess at bay.” The dispenser was designed by Tahn Interiors and custom-made locally from American oak. Get the look at lovebradbury.com.au.

CRAFT NOOK “This was one of the areas we didn’t really know what to do with,” says Annette (pictured with Rosie). “Tahn suggested turning it into a craft nook for Rosie, and Eddie once he’s older, and it’s worked.” The bench seats were covered in Zepel ‘Gulf’ outdoor fabric in Captain, and the handmade American oak table was finished in tactile beeswax. An oversized linen drum pendant is teamed with an aged metal rod, both by Tahn Interiors. ‘Sketch Requin’ chairs in Charcoal from Globe West ground the zone. >

HOMES

CREATING A MASTER SUITE UNDER THE DECK EXTENSION ALLOWED LARGE FOR A BEDROOM AND GIVES TO THE US GARDEN” ~ RYAN

‘GRANDE PAULINE’ AND ‘PETITE PAULINE’ CANDLEHOLDERS MAISON BALZAC

luxuriously direct access

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

HOMES

POWDER ROOM “Annette and Ryan wanted guests to be greeted by something beautiful but a little unexpected,” says interior decorator Tahn

of the ‘Borromee’ wallpaper by Casamance (above, try Zepel). It’s offset by a ‘London’ vanity topped with a ‘Cherry Pie’ solid surface bench in Calacatta by Architectural Designer Products, and is teamed with a Brodware ‘Winslow’ basin set with white porcelain levers. A collection of ceramic vases and a ceramic ‘Dome’ pendant light in Slate, all by Mud Australia, provide textural contrast. The ‘Florina’ travertine-look tiles were found at ASA Tiles and are laid in an arresting French (staggered) pattern. MAIN BEDROOM For the ultimate in luxe, the bed (opposite) is sumptuously layered in ‘Capriccio Prussian Blue’ and ‘Mateo Prussian Blue’ comforters by Bianca Lorenne. A Visual Comfort Kelly Wearstler ‘Utopia’ lamp from Bloomingdales lends sophistication to ‘Toulouse’ bedside tables from Pottery Barn, also the source of the extra-wide dresser. >

HOMES

SOURCE BOOK ARCHITECT AND BUILDER

Greg Ward, GMW Projects, 0403 039 492, gmwprojects.com. INTERIOR DECORATING

Tahn Interiors, 0433 162 807, tahninteriors.com.au.

DECK Brisbane’s balmy weather ensures the newly extended deck is in use whatever the season. “It really is an extension of our living space,” says

Ryan. “We open all the doors and the whole upstairs area becomes one.” The outlook extends over the surrounding suburbs and nearby Mount Coot-tha. “Aside from the views, it gives us a much better connection to the pool and garden,” adds Ryan. Decorating was light on – existing Early Settler furniture was re-covered in Warwick ‘Kona Navy’ fabric and complemented by custom Casamance ‘Elaphe’ cushions from Tahn Interiors.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

NEW QUEENSLANDER

2 3

1 INSIDE STORY ANNETTE & RYAN'S HOME WHO LIVES HERE?

Annette, a speech therapist; her husband Ryan, CEO of a software company; their children Rosie, four, and Eddie, one; and Queenie the Himalayan Persian cat. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SPOT OR ITEM?

Ryan: “In front of the real wood fireplace. I love the sound and smell when tending a fire.” Annette: “We never planned to spend so much on the chandelier above the dining table, but now we’re glad we did. ” ANY TIPS FOR A CHILD-FRIENDLY HOME?

Annette: “Have separate areas for separate activities. Rosie mostly plays in the rumpus room and draws in the craft nook. That way, all the toys and crayons stay in one place.” WHAT IS YOUR TOP RENOVATION TIP?

CUSTOM COFFEE TABLE AND SOFA (THIS PAGE, TOP RIGHT) TAHN INTERIORS CANDLESTICKS ON SHELF LUI’S WOODWORKS

4 1. A Ralph Lauren ‘Roark’ medium chandelier in Aged Iron from The Montauk Lighting Co. hangs above the dining table. 2. Annette, Ryan, Rosie and Eddie snuggle together in the living area. 3. The sitting room features a fireplace clad in ‘Blue Steel’ stone from Stonehaus and an ironbark shelf from The Big Red Shed. 4. A ‘Verde’ lamp from Bloomingdales adds a splash of green to the dining room. 5. Petite ‘Huguenot Lake’ wall lights from LightCo are perfect for the main ensuite. Frameless mirror from Tantra Imports. 6. A Bianca Lorenne ‘Arco’ cushion in Prussian Blue stars in the main bedroom. 7. Rosie waters pansies on the patio, which is covered in Sandwave Granite pavers from The Pool Tile Company.

Ryan: “Before signing off on plans, visualise yourself in the space. We physically walked through, opening imaginary doors – and in the process realised some opened in instead of out!”

5 6 7

Treat mum with a subscription to her favourite magazine for YOU R CH A NCE TO

WIN A SHARE IN

$25,000

VISIT

magshop.com.au/mum22

AU S T R A L I A N

Subscriber benefits: FREE home delivery ONE lucky winner will win $20,000 cash FIVE runner ups will win $1,000 cash each

Yes, I would like to subscribe to Home Beautiful P AY M E N T O P T I O N S (Australian rates) I wish to subscribe for (tick one only)

Me Gift 1 year

(12 issues) $69.99

1 year

(12 issues) $74.99

SAVE 34%

(HOBC_12_6999_A)

SAVE 29%

(HOBA_12_7499)

*Automatic renewal *Upfront payment

I already subscribe. Please extend my subscription with the offer selected above. For overseas rates, visit magshop.com.au/mum22 Mrs/Ms/Miss/Mr Address Postcode Telephone (

)

G I FT R EC I P I E N T D E TA I LS Mrs/Ms/Miss/Mr Address

Postcode

Telephone (

)

1 2UES

1 3UES

I SS

FROM $69.99 SAVE UP TO 34%

FROM $69.99 SAVE UP TO 25%

PAY M E N T D E TA I L S Cheque/money order for $________ is enclosed payable to Magshop or charge my

Visa

MasterCard

Amex

Cardholder’s name (please print) Cardholder’s signature

Expiry date

PLEASE PHOTOCOPY THIS ORDER FORM FOR ADDITIONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

HURRY! OFFER ENDS MAY 31, 2021.

1 2UES

I SS

FROM $69.99 SAVE UP TO 34%

FROM $69.99 SAVE UP TO 25%

1 2 ES

1 3 ES

I SS U

FROM $69.99 SAVE UP TO 39%

CALL

FROM $69.99 SAVE UP TO 42%

13 6 116

and quote M21MHOB

Subscribing is easy Send original or copy of this coupon (no stamp required) to: Magshop Reply Paid 5252 Sydney, NSW, 2000 Competition opens on 22/03/2020 and closes 31/05/2020 at 11.59pm AEST. Competition is open to all residents of Australia aged 18 years or over, who subscribe or renew their subscription to one or more magazine titles or purchase any product available on Magshop (magshop.com. au). Competition draw will take place 08/06/2020 at 11am AEST. Please see bauer-media.com. au/privacy for our privacy policy. For full terms and conditions of entry, visit magshop.com.au/ mothersday-tc. The Promoter is Are Media pty ltd (ABN 18 053 273 546). Authorised under permit numbers: NSW: TP/00018, SA: T21/302, ACT: TP 21/00329 By including your email address, Home Beautiful will keep you informed of offers and updates from our publisher, Are Media Pty Limited, and specially selected partners. Please tick if you’d prefer to not receive offers and updates from: ☐Are Media Pty Limited ☐Our specially selected partners. Our Privacy Policy can be found at aremedia.com.au/privacy and includes important information about our collection, use and disclosure of your personal information (including the provision of targeted advertising based on your online activities). It explains that if you do not provide us with information we have requested from you, we may not be able to provide you with the goods and services you require. It also explains how you can access or seek correction of your personal information, how you can complain about a breach of the Australian Privacy Principles and how we will deal with a complaint of that nature.

DESIGN FILE

PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTINA SOLJO

KITCHENS

I BATHROOMS I EXPERT ADVICE I RENOVATE I CREATE

GUEST HOUSE LUXE page 102

DESIGN FILE

HOUSE TO

EXTERIOR The bold entrance to

owner-builder Saul’s new studio blends modern design with rustic materials, setting the tone for what lies beyond. An architectural butterfly shaped roofline crowns the exterior enveloped in James Hardie Linea Weatherboard, painted in Dulux Monument. A decked walkway, framed in patterned tiles from My Tile Co, leads to the bespoke front door Saul crafted from timber flooring and a driftwood handle. “I wanted to meld contemporary aesthetics with tactile elements, so you couldn’t put a time stamp on the build,” he explains of the palette. An arbour, made with timber felled from the property, greets guests with cascading Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’.

GUEST HOUSE LUXE A YEAR AFTER HIS BEACH HOUSE RENOVATION, OWNER-BUILDER SAUL MYERS PICKED UP THE TOOLS AND TEAMED UP WITH HB FOR ANOTHER HOUSE TO HOME BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY, CREATING A STRIKING SELF-CONTAINED STUDIO Story KYLIE JACKES Photography KRISTINA SOLJO Styling TESS THYREGOD

102

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

KITCHEN A galley layout is ideal in

the compact kitchen zone, with Ikea cabinetry hugging a wall defined with striking Tropical Bird tiles from Tiles by Kate. A Bosch ‘Serie 6’ built-in oven, semi-integrated ‘Serie 8’ dishwasher and a ‘Serie 6’ gas cooktop (all available at Winning Appliances), are the perfect fit and are generously spaced along the work surface topped in blackbutt timber. Within the open-plan space, pendant lights from Beacon Lighting add another textural element. To balance the dark palette, the windows were carefully considered. “An advantage of building myself was being able to track how the sun moved, so I could refine window locations to capture the desired light,” says Saul. Luxaflex ‘Duette’ Top Down Bottom Up cellular shades on the sliding doors provide shade in summer and warmth in winter, and the Birch Bark Elan Translucent fabric is soft and subtle. >

DESIGN FILE

“AS HIGH-END, BOUTIQUE ACC OMMODATION, IT NEEDED TO BE SPECIAL AND I THINK THE MOODY PALETTE REALLY CREATES A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE” ~ SAUL

ith more time spent at home last year, Saul Myers found staying put was the perfect opportunity to make the most of his sprawling block on the NSW Central Coast. Having previously teamed up with HB to renovate a beach house, which he shares with his son Brooklyn, 7, on the leafy property, it was time to realise his longheld plan – to design and build a stylish self-contained studio to sit at the front of the site. “I saw it as a great way to create a little earner I could rent out, which offered guests a unique escape from the everyday,” says the one-time House Rules judge. “Often granny flats are built as a little square box on a super-tight budget, with little thought put into the space; my aim was to create a small architectural-style home that was sexy, smart and felt great to be in.” With a compact 50sqm floor area, the design was kept entirely open plan, with just a single internal wall and a barn door screening the bathroom. In lieu of walls, carefully chosen furniture, fixtures and fittings cleverly define the kitchen (fitted out with sleek Bosch appliances), bedroom, living and dining zones, all thoughtfully layered with eclectic pieces and stylish accessories. Keen to differentiate the studio from his classic white coastal home nestled at the back of the block, colour also played a key role. “It was a big gamble particularly in a small space to paint everything inside and out in Dulux Monument,” he says. “At the time, people questioned the choice, but I feel it’s really paid off. I love the moody, broody feel.” While the four-month build had its setbacks, including rain delays as well as prolonged council approvals, for Saul it was a dream to walk to site, a stone’s throw from his house, and project manage the build, all while home schooling Brooklyn. The workload was also shared with his best mate Troy, whose company, Hudson Lane Projects, provided extra labour. Since he’s downed tools, Saul’s enjoyed a staycation in the studio, which has given him the chance to appreciate all the hard work. The only thing left to do is name the boutique accommodation. “Brooklyn calls it ‘The Black House’, but it’s something we’re workshopping,” he says with a laugh.

104

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

LIVING & DINING AREA Saul has turned to the dark side to create a dramatic effect. “The dark backdrop makes corners disappear, creating the illusion of more space; windows become picture frames for outside greenery to pop,” he says. A rug inherited from his grandmother defines the living zone and grounds a Lounge Lovers sofa and Life Interiors ‘Memphis’ boucle ottoman. A custom hinged bench seat that continues into the dining area, provides extra seating and storage. Warm timber elements feature throughout from the ‘Hickory Oak’ flooring from Carpet Court, to Early Settler ‘Java’ fans and recycled timber beams. A throw from Papaya and assorted cushions from Life Interiors and Provincial Home Living add layers of comfort, as do the soft yet textural Luxaflex curtains (in Stone ‘Chloe’ fabric) hanging in the dining area (opposite). “They’re a beautiful way to add sophistication to the setting and diffuse sunlight to create a gentle glow and retain some daytime privacy,” says marketing communications manager Vera Meharg of Luxaflex. Immersed among the curated furnishings are sculptural pieces, including a Serax ‘Earth’ papier-mâché plate by Marie Michielssen from Becker Minty, which sits on top of the impressive dining table made by Saul, which is paired with dining chairs from Early Settler. >

DESIGN FILE

BATHROOM With a beautiful bathroom integral to luxe holiday getaways, Saul splurged on stunning green terrazzo floor tiles from Tiles by Kate, which lay the foundation for the memorable space (right). White subway wall tiles are juxtaposed with an earthy pink Venetian render, and organic curves evoke a feminine feel, as do clay coloured Saardé towels and a pretty Life Interiors vessel displayed on a timber shelf. To complement the petite space, Saul designed and made the simple timber vanity, offset with a sleek matt black ‘Contura’ mixer tap and ‘Contura 530’ solid surface inset basin, both from Caroma.

STUDY NOOK For added functionality, a corner of the main

bedroom is a devoted study nook (left), elegantly furnished with a desk and a Midnight Velvet ‘Sofie’ chair from Early Settler. An added benefit of dark walls, particularly in a rental property, is it doesn’t readily show small marks and dings yet allows artwork such as this Monique Lovering piece, The Nude and The Quite from Curatorial + Co and a Life Interiors sculpture to pop. BEDROOM A cosy soul sanctuary (opposite), the bed, framed

by a natural weave Early Settler bedhead, is dressed with linen from In Bed and In The Sac, a Provincial Home Living throw and cushions from Papaya. A bedside lamp, also from Provincial Home Living is perfect for night-time reading. For the window treatments, rather than standard roller blinds, Saul opted for luxe remote controlled Luxaflex Silhouette Shadings in White Sand. “The shadings have countless benefits: they’re durable, dust-resistant, easy to clean and incredibly versatile,” says Vera of Luxaflex, adding: “Investing in the quality window treatments is key in creating a wonderfully private guest retreat where people can enjoy a sleep in.”

106

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

““I LIKE ECLECTIC STYLING WITH A MIX OF HAMPTONS, RUSTIC ELEMENTS AND ART WHICH MELD TOGETHER TO CREATE A LOOK THAT DOESN’T DATE” ~ SAUL

HOUSE TO

WATCH SAUL’S STUDIO TRANSFORMATION AT HOMESTOLOVE.COM.AU/ HOUSETOHOMEBEAUTIFUL

I N D E L IG H T

H T

BATHROOMS:

THE RIGHT BATHROOM LIGHTING CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COLD AND CLINICAL SPACE AND THE SPA-STYLE SANCTUARY YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED Words HOLLY BYRNE

DESIGN FILE

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE, TOP RIGHT) CAITLIN MILLS BOTTOM LEFT OLIVER HELBIG (OPPOSITE) JACQUI TURK/PARKER STUDIO PRODUCTS (THIS PAGE, BOTTOM LEFT) LAUFEN ‘THE NEW CLASSIC’ BY MARCEL WANDERS WALL COUNTER BASIN, TOOTHBRUSH HOLDER AND SOAP DISH AVAILABLE FROM REECE. MIRROR AND TAPWARE NOT AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA

tep inside the bathroom of your dreams – the feature tiles you’ve been lusting over, tapware to die for, and maybe even that freestanding tub you’ve always coveted. It’s a vision straight from your Pinterest board, but something is not quite right and the atmosphere is off. The culprit? Lighting. It’s one of the most important – yet often overlooked – elements of bathroom design and harnesses the unique power to sully even the most immaculate designs and luxurious of finishes. “Lighting plays a major role in any space, but especially the bathroom,” says Carmel Wylie, interior designer at GIA Renovations. “Seeing as it’s mostly hard finishes, it can be easy to turn the room into a clinical-looking space if your lighting isn’t right,” she warns. As the place in our home where we prepare to face the world as well as unwind, the room where we start and finish each day, there’s too much at stake to get it wrong, so read on for our expert’s guide on getting the light right.

Black pendants and ‘Liquid Glass’ subway tiles from Perini Tiles create mood in this Melbourne bathroom.

POSITION PERFECT Consider your lighting needs from the very early stages of design, and consult your licensed electrician for advice on safety regulations in bathrooms. “In creating a bathroom that strikes that perfect combination of functional, practical and beautiful, it’s important to consider what sort of lighting you need and when you need it,” explains interior designer Alix Helps of Alix Helps Interiors. Start by looking at what you want, breaking it down into general, task and accent lighting sources (keeping in mind the amount of natural light available). “Consider the proportions of the room and exercise some restraint,” adds Alix. While a central oyster light fitting, a series of downlights or a three-in-one heater and exhaust are popular choices for providing general light, they represent just one piece of the puzzle, says Alix. “The dim lighting won’t cut it for make-up application and downlights are great, but tend to produce some fairly unflattering shadows when placed directly over a vanity.”

Add a single sconce, such as the Dowel Jones ‘Lord Sconce’ in this Parker Studio bathroom (opposite) or leave the wall bare for a clean look (above).

FACE VALUE The most hardworking spaces will require the most functional light sources, so when you turn your attention to the vanity where you’ll be applying make-up, doing your hair or shaving, task lighting is imperative. “This can be done by a downlight placed just in front of the mirror or a beautiful wall fitting,” suggests Carmel. To avoid unflattering shadows and select the most effective lighting, try to take a multifaceted approach by including a light above the mirror as well as a set of sconces either side, or opt for an illuminated vanity mirror instead. “Mirrors with LED lighting create beautiful ambience for a soft mood as well as being very functional,” reveals Daniela Santilli, bathrooms and kitchens merchandising leader at Reece Bathrooms. “LED lights in general are a fantastic choice to ensure consistent lighting in the vanity space every time, particularly for activities such as make-up application.” >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

109

DESIGN FILE

“SET YOUR TASK LIGHTING BACK FROM THE

vanity light

AND AIM FOR

A NUMBER OF LIGHT SOURCES TO BRING

TO THE FACE”

~ ALEX HELPS, ALEX HELPS INTERIORS

MOOD MAKERS Increasingly cast as in-house day spas, our bathrooms offer us a place to escape and unwind, so setting the mood with ambient lighting has never been so important – yet it needn’t be complicated. “It can simply be adding a dimmer switch to your main LED downlight,” says Carmel. Be sure to maximise any access to natural lighting, be it upsizing your windows or installing a skylight as nothing is better than the real thing. The next best thing is wall lights or pendants that emit a soft, warm glow – more than just creating welcoming atmosphere, these also come in handy for those late-night toilet trips. “If you had a separate circuit for these, you have a greater chance of slipping back into bed without a vicious assault on the senses,” says Alix.

In this Scandi-style ensuite by Zephyr and Stone, the sconces complement the vanity and basin, creating a sense of cohesive calm that suits the sleek space.

110

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

MULTI-TASKERS There’s an age-old adage that suggests working smarter is better than working harder, but when you’re illuminating your bathroom, search out products that do both. The three-in-one light, heater and exhaust is a classic example, but the key is to ensure each function has its own switch to avoid disturbing the household with the sound of the fan, or sweltering on a summer’s day under the heat lamp. “We have clients who start work early or come home late, so we’ll add an LED strip on a sensor under the vanity,” says Carmel. “This way, there is enough light to get ready but you’re not waking anyone up in doing so.” Multi-functioning mirrors equipped with their own light source are another wise choice. “With added features such as defoggers available in the mirrors, the vanity space is ready for use at all times, even after the steamiest of showers,” says Daniela. >

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE, TOP RIGHT) NAT SPADAVECCHIA, THE PALM CO/BIRDBLACK DESIGN (BOTTOM LEFT) NAT SPADAVECCHIA, THE PALM CO/ZEPHYR AND STONE (OPPOSITE) JOHN DOWNS/ZEPHYR AND STONE

Discreet task lighting above twin basins in this pared-back space by Birdblack Design enhances the minimalist look.

TA K E I T TO TAS K OV E R H EA D LI GH TIN G COM P LE ME NTS THE VA NI T Y AN D PROV I DES GR E AT TAS K L I GHTI N G IN THI S LU X UR I OU S BATH R OO M, DES IG N ED BY ZE P H YR A ND S TO NE .

DESIGN FILE Artfully designed sconces add a layer of sophistication.

“IF YOU GET STUCK WITH YOUR STYLE OF LIGHT

fitting

, LOOK BACK TO YOUR TAPWARE

CHOICE. IF YOU HAVE SELECTED BLACK, THEN STICK WITH A BLACK FITTING” ~ CARMEL WYLIE, GIA RENOVATIONS

GLAMOUR GLOW Lighting in the bathroom is about more than mere functionality, as it creates a unique opportunity to make a style statement. “Pendant lighting is a great way to add a design feature to the bathroom, particularly around the vanity space,” says Daniela, also noting that feature wall lights are growing in popularity. “Wall lights are the jewellery of the room, in my opinion, and can really elevate the overall aesthetic in a bathroom,” agrees Alix.

DO save some of your budget for the best you can afford.

DO ensure you have a site meeting with your electrician and do a walk-through of your plans before installation.

DO check the colour rendering index (CRI) of a fixture for task lighting – the higher the index, the more accurate your skin tone and make-up will look in the space.

DON’T rely solely on lighting behind a mirror to provide adequate task lighting for everything you need to do in your bathroom.

DON’T fill your ceiling with downlights. “That ship has sailed,” says Alix.

DON’T buy any statement pieces without seeing them in person. “Ordering these lights online never works out well,” warns Carmel.

BRILLIANT BUYS

2 1

6 7

1. LEDlux ‘Kings’ LED 600mm wall bracket, $269, Beacon Lighting. 2. Zander Lighting ‘Naples’ 4-light LED spotlight, $79, Temple & Webster. 3. La Lampe Gras ‘N°304 BL’ wall lamp, $640, Open Room. 4. ‘Clara’ pendant, $89.22, Snap Lighting. 5. Parker 2-light cylinder wall bracket, $79.95, Beacon Lighting. 6. Marz Designs ‘Bermuda’ wall light, $850, Modern Times. 7. ‘Dusk’ short ceramic wall lamp, $490, We Ponder. 8. ‘Petal’ pendant, $920, Bisque Traders. 9. ‘Urban’ pendant, $459, Ur Place.

112

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP LEFT) ANSON SMART/AREMEDIASYNDICATION.COM.AU

LIGHTING LOWDOWN: DOS AND DON’TS

Winning Appliances helps you live your best life at home. We have the technologies that will elevate your entertaining to a level in which your culinary dreams come true. Discover state-of-the-art kitchen appliances across our range of world leading brands. Be inspired and ĚǊƎĚƑĿĚŠČĚ ƭŠƑĿǄîŕŕĚē ƙĚƑǄĿČĚ îƙ ūƭƑ ēĚēĿČîƥĚē ƥĚîŞ ČîƥĚƑƙ ƥū ǋūƭƑ ƙƎĚČĿ Č ŠĚĚēƙ

DESIGN FILE

LIVING ROOMS:

BEST-LAID PLANS PUT A LITTLE LOVE INTO YOUR LIVING AREA WITH OUR DESIGNERS’ GUIDE TO THE LAYOUTS AND STYLING SECRETS FOR THE ULTIMATE GATHERING PLACE

Words HARRIET SIM

hether you are unwinding over a mug of tea, snuggling up for family movie night or clinking glasses with guests, your living area is the meeting point for connection and calm in your home. However, if you’ve made the fit-out of the space an afterthought, chances are this all-important zone isn’t living up to its full potential. “It’s important to have an understanding of the way you use your living space, as its tone and atmosphere will differ depending on your lifestyle and needs,” says interior designer Lydia Maskiell, founder of Lydia Maskiell Interiors. Read on for our expert guide to laying out the loveliest living area for your needs, from chill zone to cocktails HQ and every channel flick in between.

114

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

Placing armchairs opposite a sofa defines a living area within a larger open-plan space (as seen below), while occasional tables anchor the space and provide opportunities to display decorative items that tell a story.

THE OPEN-PLAN HUB

grand plan

An open-plan living area need not be sparse and overwhelming. “Create division with vertical storage treatments, such as an open-shelf credenza,” says interior designer Jodi York, director of Studio York Architects. “The [open] design creates a wall to section off the space and transparent shelves let natural light flow.” Use a large rug to zone areas and achieve intimacy with cosy underfooting. “Place at least the front feet of furniture on the rug and create a focal point with an ottoman,” says interior designer Tahn Scoon, founder of Tahn Interiors.

mood lighting When lighting a large area, it’s easy to fall

into the trap of a broad-spectrum bulb to illuminate it all. Instead, use a series of light fixtures. “A bold pendant light over the dining zone will anchor the space and draw the eye up,” says Jodi. “Floor lamps also pair well with an occasional chair for a reading nook.” If the ceiling height is limited, use downlights. “Downlights on dimmers present the chance to adjust lighting levels depending how you use the space,” says Lydia.

future-proof Moving between zones can mean heavy foot

traffic, so invest in quality flooring. “The best flooring for open-plan living areas is timber,” says Tahn. “It’s hard-wearing and easy to clean, yet remains warm and tactile underfoot. It’s also a base from which to layer rugs, allowing you to add texture, colour and comfort.”

colour crush

“The palette should be harmonious to, but not necessarily the same as, the space as a whole,” says Tahn. “If the dining area is olive green, your living area might be a muddy-toned mustard. It complements the green while giving the room its identity.” To play it safe, try a neutral base with contrasting accent colours.

hidden wonder

BUILT-IN TV UNIT

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER

Taking a walk through any living area should instantly transport you into the lives and travels of its occupants. “Ornaments and decor are important in removing the starkness of open spaces, as they supply personality,” says Lydia. “It’s great to introduce talk-about pieces that give a sense of comfort and a lived-in feel.”

OPEN-PLAN LAYOUT There are many configurations you can choose for an openplan layout, but a good rule of thumb is to section off a seating zone with a large rug and sofa (above). Add a mix of table lamps for ambient light and a directional floor lamp for task lighting. >

DESIGN FILE

THE GROWN-UP GETAWAY

purpose built

Create a private sanctuary at home with a living area that’s both relaxing and tailored to your needs. “A parents’ retreat is a place to unwind in, so think about what you might need,” suggests Tahn Scoon. “An ottoman or chaise to rest your feet on, or a coffee table to rest a drink on? Do you want task lighting for reading or well-shaded lamps emitting low light for relaxing? Think about how you want to use the space and decorate around your needs.”

hit the floor Give your flooring the red-carpet treatment

with delicate fibres for a touch of luxe. “As this retreat is a low-traffic area that receives little wear and tear, you might want to treat yourself to plush wool carpet that feels beautiful underfoot,” says Tahn. “It will help keep noise to a minimum, too.”

understated elegance Do you want to make a real

statement in a small space? Remember, less is more, so keep your furniture choices minimal when working with a diminutive room. “A few well-sized pieces will always look better than lots of small pieces,” says Tahn. “Keep your lines clean and simple, and your colour palette soft and neutral. Transparent and reflective materials such as Perspex glass and mirror further evoke a sense of space.” As an adult-only zone, this is the place to present your more delicate pieces without the worry of sticky fingers.

heavenly hues Be inspired by your surroundings with

calming hues to set a restful ambience. “Nurturing hues such as brown, greys, and pastels in blues and greens emit a sense of calm,” says Lydia Maskiell. “These are colours that you want to surround yourself with and set the scene for a time of calm.”

x x

TV CABINET

PARENTS’ RETREAT LAYOUT When it’s time to wind down at the end of a long day, you need a cosy, comfy cocoon-like space like this (above). Side tables either side of the sofa provide a spot for drinks, and a central ottoman supports weary feet.

116

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

Don’t fight the dimensions of a small space – embrace them. In narrower rooms, place furniture against the wall to leave enough room to freely move around a long, narrow coffee table like the one in this Sydney home (below). >

“A RUG IS A GREAT WAY TO ZONE A LIVING SPACE, AS IT C ONNECTS ALL THE FURNITURE TOGETHER”

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER

~ LYDIA MASKIELL, INTERIOR DESIGNER

DESIGN FILE

Sparkling colours and patterns in a sofa, rug or artwork will bring any family room alive.

THE FAMILY ROOM

cut the clutter A family living space need not mean

foregoing a sense of style. You can utilise storage space to keep kids’ clutter at bay. “Built-in joinery pieces that house pull-out drawers or tubs are a great and accessible option, as well as decorative baskets that can easily hide [things away],” says Lydia Maskiell. “An in-built TV unit or bench seat can also double as storage underneath.”

connection point As much as we love our technology such

as the TV and lapops, it really shouldn’t compete for our attention. Try to draw the eye away from the TV screen with surrounding shelves to inspire and delight. “Have storage around the TV so that you are drawn to books with interesting stories or games that are collectable or cultural things,” says Jodi York. Create clever spaces within in-built storage that allows for devices to be hidden away while charging.

“SHEER CURTAINS FILTER HARSH RAYS INTO BLISSFUL, DIFFUSED LIGHT WHILE GIVING YOU JUST ENOUGH PRIVACY”

clean scenes Boost the longevity of your living area by future-

proofing your furniture from family messes. “If you want your sofas and upholstered pieces to last longer, keep in mind that any untreated natural linens will stain more easily – so either have them treated or opt for hardier, commercial-grade synthetics,” says Tahn Scoon. “Stain-resistant carpets such as nylon are great for comfort and are equipped to handle spillages. Lower-maintenance materials, such as tiles, laminate or vinyl, are great as a durable option.”

colour pop When you’re ready to pick palettes and decorate the

family room, go bold and colour outside the lines. “Family rooms are a great place to inject colour,” says Tahn. “It doesn’t have to be everywhere – just pick one element such as a deep-green velvet sofa or a multicoloured striped rug, and the latter will have the added benefit of hiding the odd spill or stain.” To make it transitional and timeless, keep the base neutral and play with accents. “Add an accent to a Celtic tile and then a chair, fabulous fabric and upholstery,” says Jodi. “Steer away from colourful walls. A pop of colour could be using a wallpaper to define that space and then you can update it.”

118

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

x x x

x x

x x x

x x

BUILT-IN CABINETRY

FAMILY ROOM LAYOUT An ideal space for families incorporates built-in cabinetry (above) with a mix of open shelves (to install wall lighting and display ornaments), and closed storage to keep clutter at bay. An ottoman with hidden storage for toys is also a winner.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) SIMON WHITBREAD/STUDIO THIRTYTHREE (OPPOSITE) ALEXANDER McINTYRE ARTWORK (THIS PAGE) OLIVIER RASIR (OPPOSITE) JESSIE BREAKWELL

~ AMELIA TAYLOR, HEAD OF PRODUCT, WYNSTAN

The owners of this home on the NSW Central Coast favoured a timeless look, with a neutral base offset by rich blue tones in the sofa, rug and cushions.

UNDERCOVER BEAUTY WH E TH E R YOU OP T TO H AV E YO U R KI TC HE N H AN DLE S B L EN D I N WITH YOUR CABINETRY (S E E N H ER E) O R M AKE A S TAT E M EN T, YOU R CHOICE CAN MAKE A R EA L D I F F ER EN C E TO T HE OV ERAL L LO OK.

KITCHENS:

get a HANDLE WE’VE ROUNDED UP EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO JAZZ UP YOUR KITCHEN CABINETRY, WITH PERFECT PAIRINGS OF BEAUTIFUL HANDLES AND PULLS Words KYLIE JACKES

DESIGN FILE

CLASSIC SELECTIONS

hen designing a kitchen, there are countless decisions to make, and a key consideration is cabinetry hardware. Do you opt for knobs, pulls or a combination of both, or choose concealed or minimalist styles? As handles are one of the most tactile items we interact with daily, it’s important to choose wisely, says Lauren O’Brien, associate director and interior designer at Austin Design Associates. “They’re integral to the space in terms of functionality and style so they need to be practical, hardwearing and complement your aesthetic,” she says. With a vast range of hardware in various styles and finishes on offer, arm yourself with our expert guide to finding the ideal match for your cabinetry.

HARDWARE KNOW-HOW Before you begin handle hunting, Lauren recommends imagining how you want your kitchen to look, feel and function. Consider the palette of finishes and fixtures you’ve already chosen and who will be using the space. “If you’ve picked brass tapware, using brass handles on your cabinetry will create a cohesive look,” recommends Teegan Cocchiaro, co-founder of door hardware specialist Lo & Co. “For children or people with arthritic hands, you might want handles with user-friendly rounded edges.” Another key consideration is how many pulls and knobs you need and whether you want them to be a feature. “You may love a pair of handles, but think about how they’ll look in repetition across an expanse of cabinetry,” says Lauren. “A good option might be to balance statement hardware with concealed handles.” Size is also key. “To keep the look proportional, we recommend choosing pulls for your largest cabinetry doors first and then stepping down in scale,” adds Teegan.

5 6 1. ‘Ascot’ knob in Black, from $19, Lo & Co. 2. Kaboodle ‘Casco’ cup handle in Matt Black, $6.90, Bunnings. 3. ‘Launceston’ handle in Space Grey, $10.95, iGrab. 4. ‘Tilla’ timber handle in Black Stain, $24.50, Kethy. 5. ‘Clare’ aluminium pull in Black, $20.55, Kethy. 6. Kitchen cabinet handle in black zinc and white porcelain, $6.95, iGrab.

A combination of knobs and handles work beautifully on custom-made joinery.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) NICKI DOBRZYNSKI (OPPOSITE) JACQUI TURK/ BONDI KITCHENS & JOINERY STYLING (THIS PAGE) KERRIE-ANN JONES

FREE FORM Alternatively, you can do away with handles altogether. “This creates a sleek contemporary look, which eschews trends and allows surface finishes or even lighting to be the statement,” says Lauren. To achieve this look, one solution is to use finger pull rails. “Rails can be a nice joinery detail, although they generally reduce space within the cabinetry and you may still need to add a traditional handle on some integrated appliances,” says Jenefer Gordon, principal designer and founder of Eat Bathe Live. Another smart concealed option is push-to-open drawers and doors. “Electronic systems are pricier than mechanical options, yet won’t pop open if you accidentally lean on it,” notes Jenefer.

PULL POWER Using a pull on large cabinets and drawers that contain heavy items is always wise, suggests Teegan. “Because a traditional pull has two screw points, they create more pulling power compared to a knob, so they’re ideal for integrated appliance doors, tall pantries and deep bottom drawers.” For a more streamlined look, lip pulls are the perfect alternative to choose. “They complement a minimalist scheme and work brilliantly on panelled cabinets such as Porta timber doors, where front fixtures won’t work,” adds Teegan. Knobs tend to be used on smaller drawers and overhead cabinets. They also work nicely in combination with pulls to add an extra detail of interest – just stick to a similar finish for a unified and refined look. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

121

DESIGN FILE

For a streamlined look, select handles in the same finish as your tapware.

BOLD AS BRASS

1 2

3 5

4 6

1. ‘Tezra’ brushed brass textured cabinetry knob, $29.90, Abi Interiors. 2. ‘Rappana’ extended cabinetry pull in Brushed Copper, $26.90, Abi Interiors. 3. ‘Mabel’ brass knob, $29, Lo & Co. 4. ‘Perla’ cabinetry knob in Brushed Brass, $24.90, Abi Interiors. 5. ‘Luna’ brass XL pull, $64, Lo & Co. 6. ‘Linear’ brass pull, from $39, Lo & Co.

STATEMENT PIECES

3 4

5 6

1. ‘Archive’ timber handle in Oak, $45 each, Kethy. 2. Rattan handle, $18 each, Doup. 3. ‘Industrial’ knob in Copper Blush Matt, $12.20, Kethy. 4. ‘Nydala’ handle in Bronze, $12/set of 2, Ikea. 5. Leather ‘01’ handle with contrast stitch in Saddle Tan, $24, Made Measure. 6. White vintage-inspired ceramic knob, $8.80, Doup.

122

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

To help narrow the field amid a smorgasbord of material options, Brenda Eeles, design manager of door hardware manufacturer Kethy, recommends being aware of how different finishes will wear. “Brass is one of the most popular metals used for knobs and handles and while some people like a natural patina, which develops over time, if you opt for lacquered brass it will maintain sheen longer,” she says. Consider selecting stainless-steel hardware in coastal areas for its resistance to corrosion from the salty air, while in busy family households, an aluminium adonised handle in matt black is a robust option that won’t readily show marks. And though there are some stunning leather and timber handles, Jenefer cautions that they won’t wear as well as metal, so may not be the most practical on high-use cabinetry that is grabbed by wet or greasy hands. “Instead, I often use them on select cupboards adjacent to the kitchen, as I love the warmth they add,” she says.

TRENDING NOW As kitchens have become increasingly personalised, we’re seeing more adventurous hardware choices, reflects Brenda. “Brass is a favourite and more people are opting for coloured finishes such as champagne and copper blush, as well as greys and black,” she says. “Bronze is also making a comeback as it creates an element of luxury,” adds Teegan from Lo & Co. “People are also loving oversized handles in statement shapes and textures such as knurled finishes, which can be used to elevate basic cabinetry.”

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) CHRIS WARNES/AREMEDIASYNDICATION.COM.AU (OPPOSITE) MINDI COOKE/ZEPHYR + STONE

MATERIAL MATTERS

STYLE CONSCIOUS Different kitchen styles will suit certain hardware shapes, finishes and combinations, explains Jenefer. “Classic kitchens and Hamptons style work well with a mix of knobs on overhead cabinetry and pulls on drawers,” she says. Think decorative shapes in white porcelain teamed with antique brass or nickel detailing. To create a simpler look, Jenefer recommends sticking to one style of pull in a variety of lengths, in a timeless finish such as chrome or brushed stainless. For modern minimalist and mid-century kitchen styles, Teegan suggests lip pulls, discreet handles or sculptural hardware in shapes that reference the era, such as Lo & Co’s ‘Luna’ pulls (opposite). Also, take cues from the cabinetry colours and materials. “White-on-white or black-on-black cabinetry and hardware is effortlessly chic, while natural timber drawer and door fronts work well with brass, bronze and black fixtures,” says Teegan.

AD DIN G ACC E NTS I F YOU HAV E A N E UT RA L PAL ET T E , GO B OL D W IT H LA R GE S TAT E MEN T H A NDL ES , AS S EEN I N T HI S COASTAL-S T Y L E K I TCH E N D ES IGN ED BY Z EPH YR + S TON E.

DESIGN FILE

TO FIX OR NOT TO FIX? WITH INTEREST RATES AT A RECORD LOW, IS IT A GOOD TIME TO LOCK IN A FIXED HOME LOAN RATE? MONEY EXPERT EFFIE ZAHOS BREAKS IT DOWN Words EFFIE ZAHOS

HAVE RATES HIT ROCK BOTTOM?

The Reserve Bank of Australia has been clear it doesn’t intend to increase the cash rate until 2024. Variable home loan rates will stay low through this period, but ultra-low fixed-rate loans might start to rise as the economy picks up speed. Put simple, if you want to take advantage of those rock-bottom, fixed-interest rates, now may be the time to lock in. In most cases you won’t pay a premium to fix your home loans, as fixed rates are currently cheaper than most variable rates on offer. FIXED RATES AREN’T FLEXIBLE?

It’s a myth that fixed home loans aren’t flexible. Of the 258 fixed home loans on comparison site Canstar’s database, 87 have an offset facility and 237 allow for lump-sum or regular repayments. On average, lenders allow up to $10,000 in additional repayments, although some lenders allow up to $30,000 over the fixed rate term. SPLITTING YOUR HOME LOAN

If you’re thinking about locking in your home-loan rate, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Imagine locking in your entire loan on a great one-year fixed rate only to find when your fixed period ends fixed rates have gone up. Most lenders (91%) on Canstar’s database allow borrowers to split their loan. Some lenders allow borrowers to split their loan up to 10 times. While the average fee for setting up a split loan is $213, more than 75% of lenders don’t charge a split fee. The advantage of splitting your loan into a couple of fixed-rate loans is that it can double your extra repayments. REFINANCING TO A CHEAPER RATE

Make sure you do a break-even analysis before refinancing to a cheaper fixed rate. Add up all the costs of moving (your new lender may request

124

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

a valuation fee or charge an establishment fee) and divide this by your monthly savings. If, for example, it costs you $1000 to move but you’d save $50 a month in repayments, your break-even cost is 20 months, meaning it will take just under two years to recoup the cost of moving. You also need to be certain your new lender will be as competitive then as it is today. If you do refinance to a loan with a lower rate, keep both your term and repayments at the level you were paying for the more expensive loan, and save even more. CASHBACK HOME LOANS

Some lenders are offering up to $4000 to refinance with them. While I’m not a big fan of cashback deals, interest rates are at rock bottom so it’s worth running the numbers. If you’re lured by the cashback offer, compare how the interest rate stacks up with the cheapest in the market and compare apples for apples. Let’s say you choose to lock in for four years. Compare the cashback lender’s four-year fixed rate with the cheapest four-year rate in the market. If you’re not paying a premium, you may come out in front with a lower rate and some cash to pay for refinancing costs. RATE LOCKING YOUR INTEREST RATE

When buying a home it can take 30 to 90 days for a property to settle, and there’s no guarantee rockbottom fixed rates will still be there by the time you find a home and settle. One way to lock an advertised fixed rate is to ask your lender for a rate lock (an extra option for a fixed-rate flexible home loan), which lets you hedge against rates rising before your house purchase is settled. Each bank has a different time period for rate locks and most lenders will charge a fee for the rate-lock feature. The actual fee amount varies from lender to lender. QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE LOCKING IN

Can you make extra repayments during the fixed term? If yes, are there any fees and what is the maximum? Do ‘packaged’ interest rates discounts apply on fixed home loans? Does the fixed home loan offer a mortgage offset? What fees apply if you refinance or repay the fixed mortgage early?

“IF YOU WANT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THOSE ROCK-BOTTOM, FIXED INTEREST RATES, NOW MAY BE THE TIME TO LOCK IN” ~ EFFIE ZAHOS

PHOTOGRAPHY LOUISE ROCHE

here are some very cheap fixed rates on the market right now, which begs the question: should you lock in? While you can certainly save thousands, it pays to know the ins and outs, so you can avoid the pitfalls and ensure you’re financially fit for the future.

DESIGN EXPERT:

TOP 10 HARDSCAPING HEROES TAKE A MEANDER THROUGH THE HOTTEST OUTDOOR DESIGN FEATURES GUARANTEED TO TURN YOUR BACKYARD FROM SIMPLE TO SPECTACULAR Words KAYLA WRATTEN

OUTDOORS

lowers and foliage bring beauty to a garden, but hardscaping is the true hero of a backyard. These human-made elements are “the bones of your garden”, says garden designer Emma Carew-Reid of Embrace Garden Design. “It’s the stone, wood, brick and permanent structures that, when done properly, create an enticing transition from your house to your garden sanctuary.” These sturdy structures create a variety of zones in an outdoor space, from a deck by the pool for leisure to an in-built fire pit for entertainment. “The element of surprise is important when designing different garden zones,” says Emma. “I like to use hardscaping to direct where the eye goes and then the body follows, like a little timber gate that beckons you to explore.” Below, take a wander through our expert guide to enhancing your own backyard with 10 hardscaping trends.

DURABLE DECKING

The essential element in every Australian garden is a welcoming deck for relaxation and weekend get-togethers. For an easy-care deck that withstands salt water and sunshine year-round, Emma uses composite timber. It’s “made from sawdust and plastic. It doesn’t require oiling, and won’t swell or move,” she says. The cost, however, is approximately $100 more per square metre than timber, so consult your budget before opting for this engineered alternative.

2 PERGOLA PARADISE

PHOTOGRAPHY HILARY BRADFORD

By creating an inviting shaded area, pergolas act like an extension of your home while instantly evoking a holiday feel. Made from four pillars supporting an open lattice of crossbeams, pergolas are perfectly paired with climbing plants. “White pergolas look fantastic with deep, glossy-green tropical foliage, such as Asiatic jasmine,” says Emma. As for material, wood is the most common choice as it’s inexpensive, insect resistant and can be painted in fresh white tones to replicate a Greek island getaway.

3 Lush plants grown over a pergola in this Eckersley Garden Architecture design works to extend the garden vertically.

STUNNING STEPS

Rather than designing a standard pathway using simple flat pavers, why not take a leap of faith with oversized floating steps? “They look absolutely amazing,” remarks director of Franklin Landscape & Design David Franklin, talking about the dynamic platform steps. “We leave a 150ml gap between them and put in some groundcovers to soften up the paving.” The landscape designer advises using low-maintenance in-situ concrete, as “it’s a burnished concrete and a raw material that gives you a nice matt finish,” he says. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

127

OUTDOORS

4 WONDER WALLS

Stone cladded feature walls are enjoying popularity as they add visual interest and define outdoor zones. This technique of layering thin slabs of natural stone over alfresco walls also helps protect your walls from weather damage, although it’s essential to undertake other work. “It is important that the walls are waterproofed from behind as this will help to prevent water seeping through,” says director of Landart Matt Leacy.

AMBIENT LIGHTING

DETAILED DRIVEWAY

“Festoon lighting has come a long way, as people resonate with it after being overseas to places like Bali,” reveals David of Franklin Landscape & Design, who installs festoon lights by Beacon Lighting in outdoor areas. “What I love about it is that it’s a tranquil light, as flood lighting in the garden is gone these days. People want subtle, low lighting with a really good ambience in the backyard.”

Your driveway is one of the first things you see when you come home, so it’s important to get it right, including the materials. “A lot of people tend to use exposed aggregate because it’s cost-effective,” says David of the textured concrete finish. Integrating other materials such as bluestone pavers can have a striking effect, as “a paving band or border is going to give you detail without having to pave the whole driveway,” he explains. Natural stone adds a beautiful effect and can provide the ideal foil for your outdoor greenery.

STYLISH STONE

FENCED IN

CLASSIC CURVES

“We are seeing a lot of texture and movement being brought back into design when it comes to flooring,” shares Matt of Lardart, who says limestone and sandstone create interest underfoot. “I find it hard to go past natural stones. If you are concerned about maintenance, then make sure you go for a really dense stone that is less porous, so it doesn’t absorb anything that is left on it,” adds Matt. “A dense stone will stay relatively cool underfoot in the heat of summer, too.”

While transparent glass still reigns supreme in the pool fencing game, there’s a new kid on the block: steel rod fencing. “The rods look like art, as they give us a nice profile line and a really slick fence at the same time,” says David. To ease into the trending architectural design, he suggests hiring professionals to install a wall of architectural steel rods alongside a row of glass sheets, blending the two styles together.

In this design by Harrison’s Landscaping the curved beds help to soften the edges.

When you’re planning a makeover in the outdoor areas of your home, consider using hardscaping elements to create curved spaces, such as circular pools, curved retaining walls and round paving shapes, advises Emma of Embrace Garden Design. “It look fantastic with mid-century architecture or a modern build,” she reveals. However, she warns: “Curves are not for the faint-hearted or a shallow wallet. They are generally more labour intensive and may require specialised engineering or materials,” she explains.

SIZZLING STEEL

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) HANNAH PUECHMARIN (OPPOSITE, TOP) NICK WATT/ AREMEDIASYNDICATION.COM.AU (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM) HANNAH BLACKMORE

“Fire pits are a must!” enthuses Emma. “They always have a lovely communal feeling and are a great place for unwinding and connection,” she adds, recommending Corten steel ‘woks’ as fire bowls. This strong steel benefits from weather exposure over time, forming a natural rustic colour that doesn’t require painting and looks gorgeous surrounded by in-built timber seating. As for location, “extend existing paving material to create a circle or square to place your fire-proof vessel in,” she says.

An outdoor space with a fire pit, such as this one by CG Design Studio, makes year-round entertaining easy.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

129

Follow 2,450 posts 443k followers Home Beautiful Australia’s favourite homemaker brand, featuring renovating, decorating, design ideas, and inspiration from beautiful Australian homes #HomeBeautiful

ENTERTAIN

PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN PAUL URIZAR

EASY AND DELICIOUS FOOD TO SHARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

FROM LEFT: ‘Butterfly Bloom’ 2 tiered cake stand, $199, Wedgewood. Iittala ‘Kastehelmi’ tumblers in Sea Blue, $34.95/set of 2, and 15cm vase in Clear, $79.95, both Nordic Fusion. ‘Globe’ champagne flutes, $119/set of 2, Wedgwood. For similar cutlery, try Sambonet ‘Hannah’ cutlery, $499/24-piece set, Peter’s of Kensington. For similar napkins, try Heritage ‘Elizabeth’ napkins in Skyway, $29.95/set of 4, Myer. ‘Butterfly Bloom’ plates, $299/set of 4, Wedgwood. Fluted 27cm white dinner plate (front), $79.95, Royal Copenhagen. Blue fluted 27cm plates in Plain (right), $149 each, Royal Copenhagen. Patterned fabric from Spotlight. For similar, try Schumacher Fabrics ‘Chiang Mai Dragon’, Fabric Studio. Karen Walker range Spacecote Low Sheen paint on wall in Powder Blue (top), $102.56/4L, and Seachange (below) paint, $108.56/4L, Resene. >

PRETTY IN BLUE page 132

PRETTY IN BLUE TREAT YOUR MUM TO A DELICIOUS SAVOURY AND SWEET MENU FOR A CELEBRATORY MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH TO REMEMBER Recipes KERRIE WORNER Styling MICHAELA LE COMPTE Photography JOHN PAUL URIZAR

WATERMELON & MINT CHAMPAGNE C OCKTAIL

Makes 1 Half fill a Champagne flute with rosé sparkling wine. Top with 2 ice cubes and 3 torn mint leaves. Add 2 teaspoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of peach schnapps and 2 tablespoons of fresh watermelon juice. Use a swizzle stick to combine. Top with more sparkling wine if necessary. WATERMELON & MINT CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL

PLOUGHMAN’S SC ONES

Makes 20 Scones 2 cups self-raising flour, plus extra for bench ½ tsp salt 50g chilled butter, chopped, plus extra for greasing ¾ cup (90g) grated parmesan ¾ cup milk, plus extra to glaze

¼ cup chutney or mustard of choice (see tip) 200g shaved leg ham 200g vintage cheddar or gruyere, shaved Lemon thyme sprigs, to garnish (optional) Cornichons, to serve

1. To make scones, preheat oven to 200°C. Grease a 24cm round springform pan with butter. 2. Sift flour and salt into a large bowl. Rub in butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in ½ cup of the parmesan. Make a well in the centre. Add milk and stir to form a dough. 3. Knead on a floured surface until smooth. Press dough out until 2.5cm thick. Use a 4cm round cutter to cut out rounds. Re-roll and press out scraps to continue cutting out more scones. Place scones, touching each other in prepared pan. Brush the tops with extra milk and sprinkle with remaining parmesan. 4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until risen and golden on top. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before turning out of pan to cool. 5. To serve, split scones. Spread bases with chutney, top with ham and cheese. Replace tops. Garnish with thyme. Serve with cornichons.

FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE BIT SPECIAL, SERVE COCKTAILS ON A SILVER TRAY

132

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

TIP: We used tomato chutney but you can use any flavoured chutney, relish, wholegrain or hot English mustard. THIS PAGE, FROM LEFT: For similar vase, try Amalfi ‘Anouk’ vase,

$54.95, Zanui. ‘Suki’ board (under vase) in Camel/Rose, $49.95, Nordic Fusion. For similar tray, try Whitehill rectangular tray, $49.95, David Jones. ‘Globe’ champagne flutes, $119/set of 2, Wedgwood. For similar glasses, try Pasabache ‘Boston’ shot glasses, $12/set of 6, Temple & Webster. Iittala ‘Aalto’ 7.5cm bowl in Sea Blue, $39.95, Nordic Fusion.

ENTERTAIN BELOW, FROM LEFT: ‘Butterfly

Bloom’ plates, $299/set of 4, and cake stand, $199, Wedgwood. Fabric from Spotlight. For similar, try Schumacher Fabrics ‘Chiang Mai Dragon’, Fabric Studio. Klippan linen napkin in Rose, $24.95, Nordic Fusion. >

PLOUGHMAN’S SCONES

ENTERTAIN

HERBED GOATS CHEESE ROLL

Serves 8-10 250g block chilled cream cheese 2 x 100g logs goat cheese ⅓ cup chopped chives ½ cup chopped dill 2 tbsp chopped lemon thyme 1 small bird’s eye chilli, seeded, finely chopped Lemon oil, to drizzle

Accompaniments Crackers Sliced baguette Breakfast radishes Baby cucumber wedges Witlof Celery sticks OCEAN TROUT WITH GREEN GODDESS SAUCE

1. Place block of cream cheese on a sheet of baking paper. Place another sheet on top. Roll out to a 23cm wide x 20cm long rectangle. Roll goats cheese logs in your hands to form 2 x 10cm long rolls. Remove top sheet of baking paper from cream cheese. 2. Place goats cheese rolls on the top of cream cheese. Roll cream cheese over the goats cheese and roll up to enclose in baking paper to form a smooth log. Wrap completely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. 3. Combine herbs and chilli in a bowl. Sprinkle half of the herb mix on a sheet of plastic wrap. Unwrap log and place carefully onto herbs, sprinkle with remaining herb mix and roll until completely covered in herb mixture. Place roll on a board and drizzle with lemon oil. Serve with accompaniments.

HERBED GOATS CHEESE ROLL

Serves 6-8 (See opposite) 1kg side of ocean trout, skinned and pin-boned 1 Lebanese cucumber, shredded, seeds discarded Red garnet micro herbs and lemon wedges, to serve Pickled onion ¼ cup white wine vinegar 1 tbsp caster sugar ½ tsp salt ⅓ cup hot water 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced Green goddess sauce ½ cup dill sprigs, plus extra to

serve ½ cup Italian parsley leaves ¼ cup mint leaves, plus extra to serve ¼ cup chopped chives 2 tsp drained baby capers 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 avocado 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar ¼ cup Greek yoghurt

1. To make pickled onion, combine vinegar, sugar, salt and

water in a large jug. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add onion and stir to combine and onion is submerged. Set aside for 30 minutes or until onion is soft. 2. To make green goddess dressing, place all herbs, capers and mustard in a food processor. Process until finely chopped. Scoop avocado out of shell and add to processor with the remaining ingredients and process until smooth. Place in a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate. 3. Preheat oven to 200°C. Place trout on a large oven tray covered with baking paper. Season with salt and cracked pepper. Roast for 15 minutes or until just cooked through. Remove from oven and transfer to a serving platter. 4. Drain onion then arrange on top of trout with shredded cucumber, mint and dill leaves. Sprinkle with micro herbs. Serve with green goddess sauce and lemon wedges.

LEFT, FROM TOP LEFT: For similar plate, try Färgrik plate in

Light Green, $24.99/18-piece set, Ikea. Fabric from Spotlight. For similar, try Schumacher Fabrics ‘Chiang Mai Dragon’, from Fabric Studio. ‘Gio’ 32cm rectangular serving tray, $99.95, Wedgwood. For similar knife, try Christofle ‘Albi Acier’ knife, $55, Amara. For similar napkin, try Heritage ‘Elizabeth’ napkin in Skyway, $29.95/set of 4, Myer. Iittala ‘Kastehelmi’ tumbler in Sea Blue, $34.95/set of 2, Nordic Fusion. ‘Butterfly Bloom’ plate, $299/set of 4, Wedgwood.

BELOW, FROM LEFT: For similar board, try Maxwell & Williams

‘Bamboozled’ board, $29.95, Myer. ‘Hibiscus’ sugar bowl, $139 including lid, Wedgwood. ‘Raami’ bowl in Salmon Pink, $39.95, Iittala. For similar teaspoon, try Robert Welch ‘Malvern’ cutlery, $249.95/24-piece set, Myer. ‘Butterfly Bloom’ plate, $299/set of 4, Wedgwood. For similar plate, try Heritage ‘Hilton’ dinner plate, $14.95, Myer. Fabric, as before.>

OCEAN TROUT WITH GREEN GODDESS SAUCE

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

135

FENNEL, CORIANDER SEED & GREEN CHILLI MARINATED CHICKEN WITH SLAW

Serves 6-8 2 tsp coriander seeds 2 tsp fennel seeds 1 tsp caraway seeds 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 tsp finely grated ginger 1 green chilli, seeded, finely chopped ¼ cup Italian parsley leaves ¼ cup olive oil, plus extra for cooking 12 (2kg) chicken thigh fillets, trimmed

Slaw 2 baby fennel, ends trimmed, halved 1 baby cos lettuce heart, thickly sliced 1 red apple 1 lemon, halved ⅓ cup thinly sliced chives ¼ cup pomegranate arils ⅓ cup whole egg mayonnaise 1 tsp Dijon mustard ¼ cup water

1. Put coriander, fennel and caraway seeds in a small frying pan over a low heat and toast until aromatic. Finely grind spices using a mortar and pestle. Place spices, garlic, ginger, chilli, parsley and oil in a high-speed blender. Season well. Process until smooth. 2. Combine chicken and marinade in a large bowl. Massage the marinade through the chicken until coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for 1 hour. 3. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra oil in a large, non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Add half of the chicken. Cook for 8-10 minutes each side or until lightly brown and cooked through. Remove and cover loosely with foil for 10 minutes. Repeat with remaining chicken. 4. To make the slaw, shave fennel on a mandolin or with a vegetable peeler. Place fennel and lettuce in a bowl of iced water while chicken is marinating and sit in the fridge. When ready to serve, drain fennel and lettuce. Use a julienne slicer or shredder to cut apple into matchsticks then squeeze half a lemon over apple. 5. Combine fennel, lettuce, apple, chives and pomegranate in a large bowl. Place mayonnaise, mustard and water in a jar, squeeze remaining half a lemon into jar and shake until smooth. 6. Serve chicken alongside salad on a platter. Drizzle slaw with mayonnaise dressing.

CHOCOLATE ALMOND CUSTARD & BERRY TART Serves 10 Chocolate almond custard 2½ cups almond milk 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 egg yolks 2 eggs ⅓ cup caster sugar 1 tbsp Dutch-processed cocoa 2 tbsp cornflour 180g dark chocolate, chopped 40g butter

136

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

Chocolate almond pastry 1 cup plain flour ½ cup ground almonds 2 tbsp Dutch-processed cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting ¼ cup icing sugar mixture 125g chilled butter, chopped 2 tbsp chilled water 1 egg yolk 1 punnet of each strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and 1 fig, to decorate Whipped cream, to serve

FENNEL, CORIANDER SEED & GREEN CHILLI MARINATED CHICKEN WITH SLAW

1. To make chocolate almond custard, heat milk and vanilla in a large saucepan until it comes to a simmer. Place the yolks, eggs, sugar, cocoa and cornflour in a large heatproof bowl and whisk until smooth. 2. Gently pour some of the hot milk onto egg mixture and continually whisk until smooth. Continue gradually adding milk until it is all incorporated and smooth. Pour back into saucepan and place over a low heat. Whisk frequently for about 8 minutes or until very thick. Remove from the heat. Stand for 5 minutes. 3. Add chocolate and butter and whisk until melted. Pour into a clean bowl. Cool for 30 minutes. Cover surface with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. 4. To make chocolate and almond pastry, put flour, almonds, cocoa, icing sugar mixture and butter in the bowl of a food processor and process until mixture forms breadcrumbs. Add water and egg yolk, then process until mixture forms a ball. Knead lightly on a surface dusted in cocoa until smooth. Flatten pastry and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. 5. Roll pastry out between two sheets of baking paper until 7mm thick and 30-32cm wide. Remove paper and lift pastry into a greased 25.5 x 3.5cm deep flan pan and allow to loosely fan roughly the way it falls around the sides. Press into base. Freeze for 20 minutes. 6. Preheat oven to 200°C. Line pastry case with baking paper. Fill the base with baking blind beans or uncooked rice and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 180°C, remove paper and beans and bake for a further about 15-20 minutes or until crisp. Remove and allow to cool completely in tin. 7. To serve, remove chocolate shell from the tin and place on a serving plate. Stir custard until smooth. Spread in base. Dust edges of pastry and custard with extra cocoa. Halve strawberries and cut fig into thin wedges. Arrange strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and fig on top. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with whipped cream.

ENTERTAIN

CHOCOLATE ALMOND CUSTARD & BERRY TART See recipe opposite

THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: ‘Butterfly Bloom’ plates, $299/set of 4, Wedgwood. For similar vase, try Amalfi ‘Anouk’ vase, $54.95, Zanui. For similar platter, try Gien ‘Pont Aux Choux’ cake platter, $104, Peter’s of Kensington. For similar bowl, try ‘Hue’ bowl, $9.95, Salt & Pepper. OPPOSITE, FROM LEFT: Blue fluted 27cm plates in Plain, $149 each, Royal Copenhagen. Iittala ‘Kastehelmi’ tumbler in Sea Blue, $34.95/pair, Nordic Fusion. Fabric, as

before.For similar jug, plate and cutlery, try Falcon enamel creamer, $11, Rosenthal ‘Junto’ plate, $49, and Sambonet ‘Hannah’ cutlery, $499/24-piece set, all Peter’s of Kensington. For similar napkin, try Heritage ‘Elizabeth’ napkin, $29.95/set of 4, Myer.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

137

ENTERTAIN

THE SWEETEST CELEBRATION STYLE YOUR MOTHER’S DAY TABLE WITH THE WARM AND OPULENT TONES OF AUTUMN, PILED HIGH WITH DELECTABLE TREATS THAT CELEBRATE THE SEASON – AND YOUR FAMILY STORY Recipes NADIA FONOFF Styling KAYLA GEX Photography ALAN BENSON

ove is in the details, and that certainly goes for your table setting and menu – especially on Mother’s Day. This year, HB editor-in-chief Elle Lovelock created a vibrant autumn table fit for a very special celebration indeed, her first Mother’s Day as a mum. “I love that Mother’s Day is a time to focus on the women who care for us … the aunts, friends, and mothers of fur babies, too,” reflects Elle, who prefers the intimacy of a gathering at home. “I always pick a theme for styling the table. This year, I’m going for a mix of olive-green foliage with soft pink, rich burgundy and pops of orange.” For this feast, pay homage to the season with this mouthwatering cheesecake recipe. Starring fresh figs and caramel, it’s sure to turn your table into a work of art and make this Mother’s Day unforgettable.

RIC OTTA & DATE CHEESECAKE WITH FIGS & GOLDEN SYRUP CARAMEL

Serves 12 Anzac crust 300g Anzac biscuits 80g unsalted butter, melted Cheesecake filling 125ml boiling water 300g pitted medjool dates, chopped 250g fresh ricotta 250g cream cheese, room temperature, chopped 3 eggs

2 tbsp cornflour 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 300ml thickened cream Golden syrup caramel 55g caster sugar 90g golden syrup 60g butter 60ml coconut cream 4 fresh figs, quartered, to serve Coconut flakes, to serve

1. Lightly grease a 20cm springform cake pan. Line with baking paper. 2. Place biscuits in bowl of a food processor; add butter and process until well combined. Spoon into prepared pan and use a straightsided glass or metal spoon to spread and press biscuit mixture evenly over the base and sides. Refrigerate while preparing the filling. 3. Place chopped dates in a bowl with the boiling water and leave to soak, until cool. Add ricotta, cream cheese, eggs, cornflour, lemon juice and vanilla to the date mixture and blend until smooth. Use a rubber spatula to scrape sides, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Add cream and blend until just combined. Pour mixture over the biscuit base in the cake pan, tap gently and smooth the top. 4. Place cheesecake on a wire rack in a Miele combi steam oven (see recipe note). Ensure the fresh water tank is filled. Select ‘automatic programmes’, ‘desserts’, ‘lime cheesecake’, ‘one large’ and press start. 5. Once the program is finished, allow cheesecake to cool for

138

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

20 minutes before transferring to the refrigerator. Leave covered for 4 hours or until cooled completely. 6. For the golden syrup caramel, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar without stirring. Add golden syrup, mix to combine. Carefully stir with a metal spoon. Carefully add butter and coconut cream to sugar mixture. It will be very hot and will bubble up, so gently whisk until smooth, ensuring all sugar is dissolved. Transfer to a glass jar to cool. Set aside, covered until needed. 7. Serve cheesecake with sliced fresh figs piled high on top, drizzle with the golden syrup caramel and sprinkle coconut ribbons on top. RECIPE NOTE: If you’re using a conventional oven, bake at 130˚C (110˚C fan) for 90 minutes, or until set. The aim is to cook low and slow without burning the top and sides.

THIS PAGE, FROM LEFT: Table lamp, Lisa Burdus. ‘Urbino’

oil on linen painting by Tannya Harricks, $1850/51cm x 51cm, Art2Muse. Bowl on high foot (on console), $399/15cm, Blue fluted plain porcelain plates, from $89.95 for 17cm plate, and Blue fluted 900ml jug, $179, all Royal Copenhagen. 100% linen tablecloth in Navy, $110, and 100% linen napkins in Navy, $40/set of 4, In Bed. Celta stainless steel cutlery, $595/24-piece set, Casa e Cucina. Globe tumblers, $119/set of 2, Wedgwood. Eileen taper candle stands, $90/tall, and $75/short, Few and Far. Flowers, Poho Flowers. All other props, stylist’s own.

“ELLE STYLED A BEAUTIFUL MOTHER’S DAY TABLE... THE PERFECT SETTING FOR EITHER A MID-MORNING OR AFTERNOON TEA CELEBRATION” ~ JO DEVERY, CEO, WINNING RETAIL

This recipe is an edited extract from ‘Nourish’, Winning Appliances’ Design & Culinary Guide, packed with cooking, entertaining and gifting ideas. Available in store or online at winningappliances.com.au.

PAGE 148

PAGE 156

PAGE 164

DREAM HOME SPECIAL

PAGE 172

FROM A DIVINE BEACH PAD TO A FABULOUS FAMILY SANCTUARY AND TWO CLASSIC STUNNERS, OUR ANNUAL BUMPER GUIDE IS PACKED WITH DREAMY INSPIRATION AND ADVICE TO HELP YOU CREATE YOUR FOREVER HOME

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

ADVICE :

FOREVER DREAMS IT'S A DECISION MANY HOMEOWNERS FACE: SHOULD WE STAY AND CREATE OUR FOREVER HOME HERE, OR START THE HUNT FOR A READY-MADE DREAM? ESSENTIALLY, LOVE IT OR LIST IT? HERE, OUR EXPERT TEAM STEPS IN TO HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT MOVE

If a heavenly outlook is on your dream home checklist, talk to a builder or architect about whether this is possible at your current home.

PHOTOGRAPHY ANSON SMART

Story KAYLA WRATTEN

inding your ideal home is a huge step − our homes are where we create memories as a family, express our inner style and feel most relaxed. But how do you know whether your current abode − with a major renovation or renewed design − could be all you’ve ever wished for, or if your forever home is just around the corner? “Once you have outlined the numbers and your emotional triggers, you will be in a much better position to make a decision,” explains Rebeka Morgan, director of BuildHer Collective. So, what’s it to be – move out and start fresh, or work with what you have? Let’s find out.

COST AND CONNECTION There are two main aspects influencing the decision whether you stay or go: financial and emotional. Money-wise, chatting to a building designer is a great place to start, as renovating can be a cost-effective option. “If you can be as clear as possible in what you are trying to achieve, a builder can give you an indicative cost guide − this can then be weighed against the cost of relocating,” explains Rebeka. “Ask builders for their opinions, like, would site access be an issue, or can I live in the home while you build the extension? Do you think the existing home is in a good enough condition to keep, or would it be more beneficial to start again?” In an emotional sense, consider your close connection to your property and surroundings, from friendly neighbours to the nearby coffee spot you love. Rebeka urges you to also ask yourself, “Do I have family nearby, or is there a nice view? Is this the place where your babies lived, or do you have a dream home in your head and that is all you can think about?” If cost and connection have you leaning towards a renovation, invite a builder in for an initial site visit to uncover any hidden issues and view the process through practical eyes. Transforming your home into your ideal sanctuary is an exciting journey, as Rebeka says: “Renovations can be challenging, but there is so much potential and opportunity.” >

“THINK ABOUT HOW THE HOME ‘SPEAKS’ TO YOU. IF YOU HAVE THAT WARM, FUZZY FEELING PRESENT,THEN YOU CAN NARROW DOWN WHAT IT IS ABOUT A HOME THAT YOU LOVE” ~ REBEKA MORGAN, DIRECTOR, BUILDHER COLLECTIVE

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

143

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

Installing a new pool (below) can be costly so it may be easier to move home or consider a new build. Adding new fixtures and surfaces to a bathroom (right) can make the world of difference.

“HOW FAR AN ARCHITECT CAN GO WITH A DESIGN IS ONLY LIMITED BY YOUR BUDGET AND COUNCIL AND BUILDING REGULATIONS” ~ ANGELA JAMISON, ARCHITECT

BUDDING BUILD “If your home is worth renovating, an architect is highly skilled in design and can provide you with ideas and unconsidered potential,” says Angela Jamison, architect at Queensland’s Jamison Architects. An architect will be able to assess the pros and cons of your existing home to help you determine whether to love it or list it. The questions Angela would consider: “Does it have good bones, character to build upon, or is your home orientated for best solar aspect? Is your home functional, efficient and practical? All these factors contribute to whether your home is enjoyable to live in year-round." The verdict ultimately boils down to your budget constraints, your property’s potential for reaching ‘forever home’ heights and

the advice from your architect, so setting up a preliminary design consult is vital. “It is a small investment to make in order to make a more informed decision to proceed with renovating or selling,” says Angela, who charges an hourly rate. “Unless your renovation is substantial and there is a realistic budget to match, some architects may favour a new build over a renovation project because it is easier to design right the first time,” Angela adds. However, cost-effective, renovations can end up being more time-consuming due to working with existing features rather than a blank canvas. “In saying that, some architects will see the potential and opportunity to turn something old into something incredible and full of character that you would not get from a completely new build,” she remarks.

REFRESH YOUR STYLE If your Pinterest board is flooded with inspiring interiors in a specific style, it’s worthwhile booking an initial consult with a professional interior designer. This is likely to set you back between $150 to $300. “They could suggest new ways of using existing spaces, refresh spaces that feel old and tired, and give you your dream home without having to move anywhere!” says interior designer Catherine Heraghty, creative director of Sydney’s The Stables. “Styling a home with a cohesive look the whole way through will make a house feel complete,” she adds, suggesting that simple style updates such as a pristine coat of paint or fresh flooring could potentially make all the difference.

To decipher if your abode needs a complete renovation or a modern facelift, ask a designer to look at your site’s layout. “If the existing floor plan needs major changes to improve the use of the spaces, it’s likely that a major renovation is required,” explains Catherine. “If it is merely cosmetic, for example, paint, carpet, window treatments and furniture, then this is a much simpler process.” If your home doesn’t lend itself to your ‘most-pinned’ interior style due to structural limitations, aspect or site issues, consider a new build. “You can get exactly what you want,” says Catherine. “You can choose the floor plan that best suits your lifestyle and family, the finishes that appeal to you, and the kitchen and bathroom designs that you love.” >

“BEFORE YOU MAKE THE BIG MOVE, SPEAKING WITH AN INTERIOR DESIGNER COULD COMPLETELY CHANGE YOUR VIEW ON YOUR CURRENT HOME” ~ CATHERINE HERAGHTY, INTERIOR DESIGNER

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) MARTINA GEMMOLA (OPPOSITE, LEFT) ALEXANDER McINTYRE (OPPOSITE, RIGHT) LISA COHEN

Consider if a revamp of a particular space in your home, such as the kitchen, is all that is required to transform your entire home.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

145

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

recommended that a building and pest report is obtained to ensure that there aren’t any hidden issues that could prevent the sale going through,” explains James. Other steps to take before listing your home include attending to minor updates and investing in furniture staging for open homes, the latter of which starts at about $1500 for a basic service. “Another consideration is to have a plan should the sale happen quickly − you don’t want to miss out on an excellent offer because of uncertainty surrounding where you are going,” says James, describing the benefits of selling rather than staying. “Selling your home may allow you to transition into a location that caters for the stage in your life that you find yourself in. It also allows for change, and as they say, change is as good as a holiday.”

“IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER WHETHER THE MOTIVATION TO SELL IS PRACTICAL AND WHAT THE MOVE WOULD ACHIEVE”

LOVE IT OR LIST IT? WE BREAK DOWN THE BASIC COSTS OF STAYING AND GOING:

A luxe leather bedhead, new bedding and a statement lamp can transform your bedroom into a sublime haven.

STEPS TO SELLING A chat with a real estate agent will give you an idea of what will be required if listing your home ends up being your choice. “A real estate agent has the ability to share their market knowledge with homeowners who can then make informed decisions, rather than those made on feelings alone,” says James Bell, CEO of Century 21. So, what questions should you be asking your local agent? James advises enquiring about an estimate selling range for your property, the sale method your agent recommends, the timeframe they expect for your home to sell and how much you will need to invest in the sales process (generally about 15 per cent of the sale price). “It is also

146

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

LOVE IT COSTS* RENOVATIONS: $3000/SQM BUILDER FEE: $67,500 ARCHITECT FEE: $67,500 INTERIOR DESIGN FEE: $40,000 FURNISHINGS: $100,000 VS LEAVE IT COSTS** REAL ESTATE AGENT COMMISSION: $25,000 ADVERTISING AND MARKETING: $2500 SOLICITOR’S FEE: $1000 MORTGAGE RELEASE FEE: $800 STAMP DUTY: $43,000*** BUILDING REPORT: $500 STYLING AND STAGING: $5000 AUCTIONEER’S FEE: $400 REMOVALISTS: $315/HR

PHOTOGRAPHY MARTINA GEMMOLA *BASED ON 250SQM SIZED HOME **BASED ON A $1 MILLION PROPERTY *** VARIES FROM STATE TO STATE COSTS ARE ESTIMATES ONLY

~ JAMES BELL, CEO OF CENTURY 21

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

THE BEACH PAD

SALT AIR & SKY AN EXPAT FAMILY SNAP UP A RARE SEAFRONT OFFERING IN SYDNEY AND MAKE IT THEIR OWN WITH A CONTEMPORARY RENOVATION THAT STEERS CLEAR OF BEACHY CLICHES Words KARINA MACHADO Styling LISA HILTON Photography SIMON WHITBREAD

KITCHEN An expanse of cabinetry and undulating splashback evokes

the seaside setting of the six-bedroom home of Nicole, Evan and their daughter Charlotte (pictured). The choice of Taubmans November Rains, paired with Natucer ‘Piastrella’ splashback tiles from Academy Tiles, was deliberate, as the aim was for a palette “neither bland nor over the top”, according to Nicole. The island is topped with a Calacatta Luxe slab and Charlotte sits on a ‘Tractor’ bar stool from Uniqwa Collections.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN*

*APPROXIMATE COSTS DO NOT INCLUDE TRADES. BUDGET DOES NOT INCLUDE ALL FEATURES IN THIS SPACE. KITCHEN COSTS INCLUDE BAR AREA, NOT PICTURED. ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

BEFORE

KITCHEN & BAR (COMBINED) CABINETRY: $28,000. BENCHTOP: $18,500. APPLIANCES: $9200. BAR STOOLS: $1500. LIGHTING: $1500. SINK: $810. TAPWARE: $625. TILING: $200. TOTAL: $60,335.

THE DREAM WHO Nicole and husband Evan; and their daughter Charlotte, 13. WHERE Sydney’s Northern Beaches. THE DREAM A bright and spacious beach pad that will eventually become the family’s permanent home. WHY IS THIS YOUR FOREVER HOME? Nicole: “Most beachfront apartments were too small for our liking. This property ticked all the boxes and we knew, with a great renovation, it would be perfect for us.” >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

149

LIVING AREA Nicole’s favourite part of the renovation is this open-plan space, where caramel tones in the Havwoods ‘Pallido’ herringbone oak floor find resonance in a ‘Hayman II’ sofa, custom-designed by Your Beautiful Home and upholstered in Mokum ‘Sahel’ fabric in Rose Gold. “We have afternoon naps here, feet up and facing out to the ocean,” says Nicole. Sheer curtains from Marlow & Finch increase privacy and “really soften the space,” she says. A ‘Summerhouse’ throw from Berry Jam Sweet Living and David Jones ‘Coastal’ teapot atop a ‘Pod’ ottoman in a Catherine Martin fabric, designed by Your Beautiful Home, enhance an inviting scene.

BEFORE

“I LOVE THE OPENNESS OF THE LIVING AND DINING AREA, WHICH ALLOWS US TO ENTERTAIN FAMILY AND FRIENDS” ~ NICOLE, HOMEOWNER

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

each babies from way back, Nicole and her husband Evan were on the lookout “for the dream family property in Sydney”, says Nicole, who runs a sport-management firm. She and Evan, CEO of an investment management company, moved to Singapore for work in 2005 but never stopped scanning the property scene back home. Their dedication reaped dividends when a rare find came their way – two three-bedroom apartments had been merged to form a seafront home on Sydney’s northern beaches. “As we said at the time, it was good as it was – but with the right renovation it would be amazing!” says Nicole. Meeting with design agency Your Beautiful Home, the pair laid out their plan for “an open, light and modern” abode that would radiate relaxation but would never descend into beach kitsch. The revamp kicked off in 2019, with Nicole and Evan checking off design decisions from Singapore. “Their number one request was for the home not to be boring!” says Anna Williams from Your Beautiful Home. “They wanted a sense of ‘wow’ when it was all done.” That accomplished, the sea breezes now carry the sweet scent of forever – even though, for now, the family’s primary residence remains in Singapore. “We see this as our long-term home for many years to come,” says Nicole.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* LIVING AREA & DINING AREA (COMBINED) FLOORING & INSTALLATION: $17,500. CABINETRY: $11,820. CURTAINS & BLINDS: $9000. LIGHTING: $9950. FURNITURE: $14,780. TOTAL: $63,050.

BOLLA SHALLOW WOVEN BOWLS (TOP RIGHT) AND BISON CUCINA PLATTER IN ICE BLUE (RIGHT) BERRY JAM SWEET LIVING. ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

DINING AREA A ‘Balmoral’ American oak table from Loughlin Furniture (below) was one of Nicole’s renovation “non-negotiables” and is surrounded by ‘Rosie’ dining chairs in Soot from Globe West. She included “a chair by the window” in her brief, and sipping tea or reading in the Home Republic ‘Copenhagen’ armchair from Adairs is a delight. Nicole uses part of the bespoke entertainment cabinet (above, painted in Taubmans November Rains half-strength) as a home office-cum-storage area. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

151

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

FLOOR PLAN

UPPER FLOOR ENS DINING

BED

LOUNGE

KITCHEN

MAIN

ENS

LOWER FLOOR STUDY L’DRY BATH GUEST GYM MEDIA

MAIN BEDROOM “Evan

and I wanted something with a relaxed, adult feel,” says Nicole of their classy yet understated bedroom (above). Subtle jute grasscloth wallpaper from Style Revolutionary creates a tactile backdrop for a bedhead from Forty Winks which continues the home’s cool-colour palette, with Signature Floors ‘Florian’ carpet from Tom Flew. “We love the wallpaper and thought it was a great way to add character without going over the top,” says Nicole. The wire pendants from Urban Lighting remind her and Evan of a traditional Asian fishing basket, and the ‘Avenue’ throw is from No Chintz.

152

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

ENSUITE An elegant navy scheme defines the couple’s bathroom (right), with darkly dramatic Inax ‘Biyusai’ feature tiles from Artedomus and denim terrazzo floor tiles from Signorino Tiles. “We wanted the master space to be almost like a hotel bathroom, where you walk in and go, ‘Wow!’ ” says Nicole. “The blue floor tiles make it feel kind of like you’re walking on the ocean. We wanted that connection.” ‘Calo’ towels in Antique Pink from Country Road and a vanity made of Polytec ‘Prime Oak’ woodmatt introduce warmth into the zone. “We didn’t want it to be safe,” explains Nicole. “We wanted it to be different.”

L’DRY

VOID

BATH

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* MAIN BEDROOM, ENSUITE & MEDIA ROOM (COMBINED) CABINETRY: $19,260. FURNITURE: $9550. CARPET: $3300. TILING: $3450. WALLPAPER: $2700. UNDERFLOOR HEATING: $1000. BASIN: $430. TOTAL: $39,690.

NATURAL COASTAL FRINGE AND SARATOGA HAZE CUSHIONS (TOP LEFT, ON BED) BERRY JAM SWEET LIVING.

Formerly Nicole’s office, this space fills multiple functions. “We wanted an area for Charlotte to be able to hang out with her friends,” says Nicole, who also uses it as her own relaxing retreat. A custom day bed from House Of Orange turns the media room into an extra guest room if required. “When you take all the cushions off, it’s another bed,” says Nicole of the L-shaped banquet seating, which is upholstered in Mokum ‘Infinite’ fabric in Petrol and adorned with scatter cushions from Escape To Paradise. Grasscloth wallpaper in Harbour from Porter’s Paints is a cohesive touch, while a custom sign from Neon Collective is a reminder of what really matters. >

BEFORE

“NICOLE AND EVAN’S VISION WAS FOR A CAREFULLY PLANNED APARTMENT WITH A SURPRISING USE OF COLOUR” ~ SELENA MOHR, INTERIOR DESIGNER, YOUR BEAUTIFUL HOME

CHARLOTTE’S ENSUITE

BEFORE

“Sometimes I think her space is better than ours – it’s amazing!” marvels Nicole. Her daughter’s gorgeous bathroom features Inax ‘Arcaico Border’ tiles in a summer-lovin’ aqua shade from Artedomus and marble-look wall and floor tiles from Tiles By Kate. “We wanted to continue the colour theme through the house,” says Nicole, adding that there’s also plenty of storage here for Charlotte. “In Singapore, there’s not a lot of storage, and we really missed that, so that was a big part of the design brief.”

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

LESSONS LEARNT “Find people who are on the same page as you and willing to execute your vision, but also be willing to trust who you employ,” says Nicole. She found some of Your Beautiful Home’s decisions initially confronting, but they proved perfect. “For example, the herringbone floor is very different to what we’ve ever had. We would never have thought of that pattern, but everyone who comes here comments on how fantastic it is! You have to trust. Ultimately, our design team have given us the X-factor we wanted.”

BUDGET BREAKDOWN*

ZANZIBAR AZURE LINEN CUSHION (ABOVE LEFT) NO CHINTZ ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

CHARLOTTE’S BEDROOM/ENSUITE & ENTRANCE (COMBINED) CABINETRY: $19,490. FURNITURE: $3425. CARPET: $2000. WALLPAPER: $3500. LIGHTING: $600. TILING: $3380. BASIN: $360. SHOWER SCREEN: $1200. FLOORING: $3700. TOTAL: $37,655.

ENTRANCE

CHARLOTTE’S BEDROOM

A feature wall in Taubmans Catalina Green in the foyer (above) sets the tone for the whole home – and tells a story about its owners. “Having lived in Asia for 15 years, we are a shoe-free family,” says Nicole. Her dream of a dedicated space for removing and storing shoes was brought to life by Your Beautiful Life and Luxe Joinery. The round Artifex mirror was another of Nicole’s must-haves in the renovation. “I absolutely love it!” she says.

Starring an ombre-effect wall that was Charlotte’s idea, her bedroom (right) is simultaneously serene and uplifting. An ‘Ocean Grove’ bed and bedhead from Snooze contrasts with ‘Claude’ wallpaper in Ombre Teal from Emily Ziz, while Rebecca Judd Loves linen from Adairs softens the scheme. A ‘Mara’ velvet lounge chair from Matt Blatt is a versatile addition, and a vivid artwork from Adairs draws the eye. All in all, “Charlotte had a lot of input”, remarks her mum.

DREAM IDEAS Tones of the beach meander through Nicole and Evan’s home and nod to their lifelong affinity with the ocean. Here, interior designer Anna Williams shares three ways colour can transform a home 1. “Joinery doesn’t have to be white,” says Anna. “Soft muted colour can really bring a space to life. The inside of a cupboard is a great way to introduce colour if you’re not confident to put it on the outside.” 2. “Wallpaper is often overlooked and can be perceived as dated. There are many fabulous wallpapers now and a feature wall can be a lot more economical than a piece of artwork.” 3. “In this apartment, the colour of the sofa brings a lovely warmth to the living area, while the patterned ottoman brings a touch of vibrancy and could easily be re-covered down the track if needed.”

SOURCE BOOK

INTERIOR DESIGN YOUR BEAUTIFUL HOME, 0416 220 226, YOURBEAUTIFULHOME.COM.AU BUILDER SIGNATURE BUILDING & CARPENTRY, SIGNATUREBUILDING.COM.AU JOINERY LUKE SERGEANT, LUXE JOINERY, @LUXEJOINERY

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

155

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

EXTERIOR The extension

encompasses a wall of glass doors that open out to a plunge pool and courtyard. Homeowner Andrew was inspired to build the outdoor table and bench, teamed with Globe West chairs. “We were hands-on across the entire project from the design to the build,” reflects his wife Christine (pictured with daughter Annabelle and poochon Margaux).

THE FOREVER HOME:

SOUL REVIVAL A FEDERATION HOME SPANNING THREE GENERATIONS IS LOVINGLY RESTORED AND EXTENDED TO ENSURE IT REMAINS A TIGHTLY HELD FAMILY TREASURE WELL INTO THE FUTURE Story KYLIE JACKES Styling EMMA O’MEARA Photography NIKOLE RAMSAY

156

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

THE DREAM WHO Andrew, a defence consultant; his wife Christine, a stay-at-home mum; daughters Georgia, 19, Viktoria, 15, and Annabelle, 13; as well as Christine’s mum Tania and Margaux the poochon. WHERE Geelong, Victoria. THE DREAM To add a new extension to a Federation home that has been in the family for 60 years. WHY DID YOU DO THIS NOW? Andrew: “When we bought the house in 2005, it was always our intention to fully renovate and extend – it just took a long time for everything to fall into place and do it right.”

ARTWORK BY UNKNOWN ARTIST. ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

KITCHEN Rather than renovate the existing kitchen,

BEFORE

a family hub was created in the open-plan extension, where it overlooks the adjoining dining area and living room. Keeping surfaces simple and timeless, cabinetry in Dulux Natural White two-pac blends seamlessly with walls painted the same colour, while the island topped in Smartstone Carrara with a hardwood timber bench doubles as a prep and informal entertaining zone. Bar stools from Coco Republic and pendant lights made by Andrew’s brother-in-law Michael provide bold accents, with the black and timber finishes echoed in the sculptural staircase (right). >

LIVING AREA One of Christine’s favourite features are the

stacking glass doors that create a light-filled backdrop to the family area. “They were a key addition as they can be opened right up to merge indoor and outdoor spaces, which creates a really lovely alfresco feel when entertaining,” she explains. While Christine had a clear vision for the interiors, stylist Ali Waight effortlessly pulled the look together and sourced key pieces including an eye-catching Shadow Men wall sculpture from La Grolla (below). The concrete floor is softened by a Bayliss ‘Drake’ rug in Anthracite, teamed with custom sofas from Momu and a Globe West coffee table.

BEFORE

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

*APPROXIMATE COSTS DO NOT INCLUDE TRADES. BUDGET DOES NOT INCLUDE ALL FEATURES IN THIS SPACE.

s a kid growing up in rural Victoria, Andrew fondly recalls travelling to the “big smoke” and visiting his grandparents. “I had to go to Geelong for football training and so I would stay at their place several nights a week,” he says. “I even had a bedroom in the front enclosed verandah.” He never imagined that he would one day raise his own family there, decades later, when Andrew and his wife Christine bought the Federation property from his parents in 2005. Work took them around Australia, but the arrival of their now teenage daughters Georgia, Viktoria and Annabelle brought them back. “It’s the only home we’ve ever owned, so it was always our plan to restore its original beauty and enlarge it,” says Christine. She spent years perfecting the design, while Andrew took long-service leave so he could be on site daily to assist with the 10-month build. Working within the parameters of a heritage overlay, the couple found that their best option was to keep the 1909 home largely intact and add a modern extension to include an extra level at the back, effectively tripling the floor area. For their forever home, Christine eschewed trends, opting for a timeless, yet chic palette of enduring finishes including concrete floors, bespoke hardwood joinery and punches of bold black. “It was a tough journey at times, but there’s nothing I’d change,” says Andrew. “I love the combination of new and old and all the associated memories. When my mum visited after it was completed, she was quite emotional, seeing how we’d turned her family home into our family home.”

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* KITCHEN, DINING AREA & LIVING AREA (COMBINED) APPLIANCES: $18,000. CABINETRY: $45,000. LIGHTING: $2000. SINK & TAPWARE: $3000. FURNITURE: $30,000. RUG: $3000. GLAZING: $15,000. TOTAL: $116,000.

DINING AREA A custom timber table by Living Etc paired with

Globe West ‘Pepper’ dining chairs anchors the dining zone (right), which flows beautifully from the light-filled kitchen (above). On the wall, an artwork from United Interiors adds warmth with the pop of mustard picked up in soft furnishings throughout the house. >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

159

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

LESSONS LEARNT “Initially, I sketched countless designs that replicated an older, heritage style, but to meet council requirements we found it was simpler and far better to add a modern extension,” explains Christine. “To design the new look, I used a CAD software program, which gave us a great 3D perspective and allowed me to easily tweak elements before it was documented by a draftsman. When construction began, we were confident the design was exactly what we wanted.”

FLOOR PLAN BEFORE EXTERIOR

EXTERIOR

BATH

BED

KITCHEN

STUDY

EXTERIOR

BED

LIVING

VERANDAH

GARAGE

FAMILY DINING

STUDY C’YARD

BATH BED

KITCHEN

DECK

BED

160

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

LIVING

UPPER LEVEL VOID RETREAT

BED WIR

BED BATH

WIR

Each one of the couple’s daughters’ rooms were decorated to create an individual look to suit. The starting point for Annabelle’s room (above) was a leather strapping bedhead from Fenton & Fenton, which provides a pretty pink backdrop for linen from Kip & Co and Linen House. Affordable additions include a Freedom side table topped with a Kmart lamp, while Annabelle chose wall dots from Adairs for

a fun sprinkle of gold across the back wall. A Kmart pegboard continues the circular theme and provides a perch for a few of Annabelle’s favourite pieces. HALLWAY The distinction between new and old (above right) can be seen in the floor, with the original section of the home featuring hardwood timber boards framed by freshly plastered walls and period-style skirting boards and cornices painted in Dulux Natural White.

BED

BATH MUD L’DRY PANTRY

ANNABELLE’S BEDROOM

WIR

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* MAIN BEDROOM & ANNABELLE’S BEDROOM (COMBINED) FURNITURE: $10,000. CARPET: $3000. FIREPLACE: $1000. TOTAL: $14,000.

ENTRY

POOL

LOWER LEVEL

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION. ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM

AFTER

MAIN BEDROOM Christine and Andrew transformed an

original bedroom into a master suite, adding an ensuite and built-in wardrobe. To renew the sense of charm, the fireplace was restored, walls were replastered with period-style cornicing reinstated and pendant lights from Beacon Lighting installed. “I love that the room honours the period of the home,” says Christine, who kept the palette wonderfully warm with a custom leather bedhead by Harbro teamed with linen from Sheridan, Adairs and Freedom. Vintage-style bedsides from West Elm complete the inviting look. >

BEFORE

“THE OPEN-PLAN SPACES CONNECT US AS A FAMILY, WHILE THE BEDROOMS ARE LOVELY, QUIET PLACES TO RETREAT” ~ CHRISTINE, HOMEOWNER

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

BATHROOM “When selecting the bathtub, size mattered,” says Christine of the Forme L’Isola freestanding tub from E&S Trading. “It had to be comfortable and in proportion with the space.” To continue the luxe feel, ‘Concrete Fuse Lappato’ tiles from Beaumont Tiles flow from floor to wall, with their scale matched by an expansive mirror. “I like the simplicity of a mirror that runs from the vanity to the ceiling, which will never date,” says Christine. “Its size enhances the sense of space and views of the garden.” Above the custom Caesarstone ‘Snow White’ vanity, a trio of Hermon Hermon Lighting pendants adds interest.

BEFORE

“AS OUR FOREVER HOME, EVERYTHING WAS CHOSEN TO SUIT US. WE WANTED IT TO BE TIMELESS AND LOW MAINTENANCE”

BEFORE

~ CHRISTINE, HOMEOWNER

DREAM IDEAS Interior stylist Ali Waight shares her tips on melding a Federation home with a modern extension 1. “Choose the right white,” says Ali. “Modern interiors often feature walls in a cool white, while older homes tend to be more creamy. We struck a balance with Dulux Natural White. It’s fresh, yet still throws off warmer tones.” 2. “Add timber. With timber floors in the original home, it was important to include tactile timber elements in the new extension to visually unite the spaces, adding textural layers and interest throughout.” 3. “Restraint is important. Christine stuck to a classic black, white and grey palette, as well as crisp, clean lines and natural materials.”

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

SOURCE BOOK

POOL AREA Despite having

STUDY Christine’s home office

a compact backyard, Andrew and Christine were still able to fit in a heated plunge pool from Gordon Ave Pools & Spas for year-round swims (above). A timber fence in Resene Bokara Grey and concrete-look tiles are in keeping with the home’s interior palette creating a cohesive feel between outdoor and indoor spaces. The monochromatic tones also allow the details to shine including a bench made by Andrew topped with cushions in Tommy Bahama fabric. It provides a neat and comfy poolside seat.

set-up (right) is super sleek with custom joinery and a floating desk. “One of the best decisions I made was picking the finish on the cabinetry,” she says. “I went with Polytec ‘Thermolaminated Tempest Woodgrain’, which looks like genuine timber, is cost-effective and doesn’t leave fingermarks, which is often an issue with dark finishes.” Phillip Jeffries ‘Love It Linen’ wallpaper from Design & Decorate Interiors adds a textural backdrop, while a Globe West ‘Bogart’ chair is a streamlined seating choice.

INTERIOR STYLING ALI WAIGHT, 0409 011 584 DRAFTSPERSON J3DESIGN, J3DESIGN.COM.AU JOINERY SCOTT’S COUNTRY LOOK KITCHENS, (03) 5248 2777

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* BATHROOM, POOL AREA & HOME OFFICE (COMBINED) BATHROOM TILING: $10,000. CABINETRY: $18,000. GLAZING: $5000. LIGHTING: $2500. TAPWARE/SINK/BATH: $5500. POOL: $28,000. FENCING: $6000. SYNTHETIC TURF: $2000. WALLPAPER: $800. TOTAL: $77,800.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

163

LIVING AREA Flooded with natural light, the reimagined living area is the antithesis of what it once was. The red carpet has been replaced with Silver Pearl honed limestone tiles from Armanti Tiles & Bathware. Walls in Dulux Palace Stone with White On White trims gave interior designer Kristie Hill a neutral canvas to work with. A comfy sofa from Kuka Home a few years ago is paired with a statement ‘Brooklyn’ chair from Henry & Oliver Co and a ‘River’ rug from Armadillo. The blanket box from Wicker Works used as a coffee table picks up on the coastal hues in Waterways #6 by Fremantle artist Jo Darvall.

BEFORE

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

THE HERITAGE HOME:

CLASSIC CHARMER THIS WORKERS’ COTTAGE NEAR THE COAST IN BUNBURY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, IS GIVEN A REFRESH THAT HONOURS ITS HISTORY

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Story TAMARA SIMONEAU Photography CLAIRE MC FERRAN

THE DREAM WHO Natalie and husband Jamie; sons Jake, 18, and Josh, 16; and Buddy the labrador and Tessa the caboodle. WHERE Bunbury, WA. THE DREAM To create a low-maintenance heritage home near the beach for a family of four using non-toxic products throughout the renovation. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS HOME? Natalie: “It is an amazing old house in a fabulous location, and the block was huge at around 1000 square metres. Plus, it already had a pool.” >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

165

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

LIVING AREA DETAIL

The soothing palette of Gumnuts by Western Australian artist Jen Mellor plays into the other earthy neutrals used in the living area (below). A ‘Chelsea’ bench from The Furniture Gallery (for similar, try Temple & Webster) displays a beautiful and eclectic collection of curios in similar tones, and the blanket box, throw and rug bring it all together beautifully.

DINING AREA The handmade ceramics by Eucalypt Homewares on the table (right) and the subtle tones of Jo Darvall’s Bathing in Moonlight reflect Natalie’s aesthetic. For a similar dining setting, try the ‘Oakdale’ cross-leg dining table and the ‘Provincial’ cross-back chairs in oak from Early Settler. A ‘Southampton’ 6-light pendant from Beacon Lighting is an elegant match.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* DINING AREA FURNITURE: $4400. FLOORING: $4900. LIGHTING: $795. TOTAL: $10,095.

LESSONS LEARNT Opting for natural stone flooring meant compromising on some durability but it also eradicated the need for harsh cleaners to maintain them. “The floor tiles will wear over time, showing marks and stains to tell a story, but you can’t use chemicals to clean natural stone – they don’t like it – so it was the perfect choice for Natalie and Jamie’s home,” says designer Kristie. During the build, Jamie found reinstating the heritage elements painstaking work, but the results have been worth the extra effort and time. “The truly rewarding part of this project is to know that the traditional building methods and design of this home will now be preserved into the future,” he says.

166

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

*APPROXIMATE COSTS DO NOT INCLUDE TRADES. BUDGET DOES NOT INCLUDE ALL FEATURES IN THIS SPACE. ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

hen doctor Natalie Challis and her husband Jamie, director of a building company, discovered this 1910 workers’ cottage, they couldn’t believe their luck. “We completely fell in love with this house,” says Natalie. “You could see the potential underneath all of the mess.” Its location, a few blocks from Bunbury’s coast south of Perth, was as appealing as its heritage. However, a renovation in the late ’80s had stripped some of the original character away and added a garish colour scheme of red and deep green. The couple were keen to revive its charm and create a fuss-free home that would suit their family, which includes sons Jake, now 18, and Josh, 16. Natalie wanted the renovation to use predominantly natural products. “We used limestone, stone and timber deliberately to control the chemical load in our home,” she says. “We used non-toxic paints and glues, and ensured sealers were as natural as possible.” Jamie worked on the build, and the couple tasked interior designer Kristie Hill of Colourcube Interiors to create a warm and welcoming feel. The ageing carpet was ripped up to reveal original jarrah floorboards and the ceilings were replaced. “We used food-grade oil on the beautiful old jarrah floors and they look amazing,” says Natalie. Other updates include a fresh, openplan living area, overhauled bathrooms, and a stylish dressing room. The result is a laidback yet sophisticated family home that honours the past while still celebrating the present.

KITCHEN The kitchen has now become the hub of family life for Jamie and Natalie (pictured below, with Buddy). The flooring extends from the living area, and food-grade sealant Osmo Polyx Oil from VCS on the custom jarrah island benchtop was chosen for its low-chemical impact. Stools the couple bought several years ago and ‘Southampton 1’ pendants from Beacon Lighting create a chilled dining zone. The Caesarstone ‘Calacatta Nuvo’ benchtop creates a chic match to the Polytec two-pac cabinetry in Dulux Mt Aspiring. >

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* KITCHEN & LIVING (COMBINED) APPLIANCES: $4000. CABINETRY: $35,000. LIGHTING: $1000. FLOORING: $10,000. TOTAL: $50,000.

BEFORE

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

“I LOVE CREATING MOOD IN A MASTER BEDROOM, SOMETHING THAT YOU CAN WALK INTO AND FEEL INSTANTLY RELAXED” ~ KRISTIE HILL, INTERIOR DESIGNER

MAIN BEDROOM French doors that open to the verandah and

garden beyond turn this sleep zone into a luxurious and light-filled sanctuary. A dream-inducing Designer Boys print, Winter Clouds II, hangs above a custom moody-hued bedhead in Warwick ‘Esprit’ in Atlantic by Creative Edge Upholstery. It helps to anchor the space against the simple backdrop of Dulux Silkwort 150% and crisp White On White wainscoting beneath. For a similar pendant light, try Pamono.

GUEST BEDROOM Any guest

STUDY The study (below) has

who’s lucky enough to stay at Natalie and Jamie’s home is sure to enjoy blissful slumber in their gorgeous room (left). A neutral haven of classic Dulux Silkwort paired with wainscoting in Dulux White On White below set the peaceful tone. A Mercer + Reid ‘Fenwick’ bedhead in Natural and storage bench (for similar, try Mercer + Reid ‘Highbury’ in Rose Pink), both from Adairs, bookend the sumptuously styled bed, and a Designer Boys framed Black Sea Fan Coral print is a nod to the home’s seaside locale.

a feminine touch with cabinetry in Dulux Mt Aspiring two-pac and a beautifully crafted custom desktop in jarrah. The deep blush hues in the timber are punctuated by its pairing with a Globe West ‘Daphne’ armchair in Rust Berry from Roxby Lane (for a similar colour, try Globe West ‘Isabella’ armchair in French Pink Velvet). Häfele knobs and handles add a classic touch. “Natalie loves reading and has her favourite books in her study, which is easily accessible to the main bedroom and living areas,” says Kristie. >

FLOOR PLAN BEFORE

VERANDAH

BATH KITCHEN BED

BED

FAMILY

STORE

L’DRY BED

LIVING

BED

BATH

AFTER VERANDAH

BATH

VERANDAH

KITCHEN BED

BED LIVING

BED

FAMILY

BUDGET BREAKDOWN*

BATH

MAIN BEDROOM & GUEST BEDROOM (COMBINED) FLOORING: $4000. CURTAINS & BLINDS: $1200. FURNITURE: $6180. TOTAL: $11,380.

DINING L’DRY

BED

STUDY

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM. ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION.

VERANDAH

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

169

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

“I WANTED A HOME THAT LOOKS JUST AS GREAT FULL OF FAMILY MESSES AS IT DOES ALL CLEANED UP” ~ NATALIE, HOMEOWNER

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* EXTERIOR PAINT: $15,000. PAVING: $5000. LANDSCAPING: $15,000. TOTAL: $35,000. ENSUITE CABINETRY: $15,000. TAPWARE: $2500. FLOORING AND FEATURE TILING: $12,000. TOTAL: $29,500.

EXTERIOR Natalie and Jamie did extensive landscaping to clear an

170

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

ENTRANCE Old jarrah floors

VERANDAH The timeless

in the entry hall (left) have been revived with natural, organic oil for an environmentally friendly finish. To replace modern flooring from a previous renovation, Jamie also sourced jarrah boards from an old home of a similar age. Dulux Palace Stone 150% strength atop wainscoting in Dulux White On White and a vintage bench enhance the home’s heritage.

verandah (above) has been brought back to life with Dulux Weathershield in Colorbond Surfmist and new landscape pavers in Heritage Red from Midland Brick. The addition of timber fretwork is in keeping with the home’s country style, while the outdoor setting (try Temple & Webster) is the ideal spot to take time out and relax.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

overgrown garden that had blocked sight of the home’s pretty facade (above) from the road. Their 12-year-old labrador, Buddy, and Tessa the caboodle, two, now enjoy the new grassy open space. In the final stages of the five-month project, asbestos was found in the wall cladding. Once it was removed, the renovation was completed with exterior paint.

ENSUITE The ensuite exudes

all the opulence of a five-star resort. Cabinetry in Dulux Mt Aspiring two-pac is finished with a Caesarstone ‘Calacatta Nuvo’ benchtop with custom mirrored cabinets. ‘Bristol’ wall sconces in Antique Silver from Interiors Online bring an old-world feel. Stunning gloss white ‘Masio’ subway tiles in Blanco from Armanti Tiles and Bathware are used on the walls and in the double shower, where an Astra Walker Olde English shower set is a subtle complement. The Uniqwa ‘Akoni’ side table adds earthy appeal to the space.

DREAM IDEAS Interior designer Kristie Hill of Colourcube Interiors shares her tips on using surfaces, hardware and colour to create a luxurious bathroom 1. “Use natural stone benchtops and tiles if your budget permits,” says Kristie. “Selecting tiles that are different from the standard dimensions adds wow-factor.” 2. “Play with different tapware and hardware finishes to create interest. Brass accents are always going to be a showstopper but, depending on the style you are trying to achieve, brushed nickel is a favourite, too.” 3. “Select a tonal palette when you’re choosing a colour scheme and stay away from expansive all-white walls. If you consider all those amazing restrooms in five-star hotels, they have so much depth and contrast throughout the entire room, and this adds to their luxe appeal.”

SOURCE BOOK

INTERIOR DESIGN COLOURCUBE INTERIORS, 0438 703 870, COLOURCUBEINTERIORS.COM.AU BUILDER JAMIE CHALLIS, CHALLIS BUILDERS, (08) 9791 2206, CHALLISBUILDERS.COM.AU

BEFORE

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

THE DESIGNER’S CANVAS:

SLEEPING BEAUTY A CALIFORNIAN BUNGALOW IN INNER-CITY MELBOURNE IS THE PERFECT ABODE FOR AN INTERIOR DESIGNER TO CREATE A LIGHT-FILLED HOME FOR HER FAMILY TO TREASURE Words KAYLA WRATTEN Photography DYLAN JAMES

BEFORE

THE DREAM WHO Alison, an interior designer; her husband Dave; and their daughter Ava, five. WHERE Melbourne, Victoria. THE DREAM To renovate a period-style home, give it a new lease of life and prove that you can reinstate beauty without knocking them down. WHY DID YOU DO THIS NOW? Alison: “We’d just had Ava and wanted to live closer to the city and spend time together. This house was the ideal mix of location and project for us to do that.”

ENTRANCE “These are the original front doors and I absolutely love them,” says homeowner and interior designer

Alison (pictured). “People asked me if I was going to paint them and I said, ‘No way!’ They add a dramatic feel.” A rattan pendant light from Artisan Home helps make a lasting first impression. LIVING AREA Alison’s family consider the living area (opposite) the heart of their home and retreat here to relax whenever possible. The calming palette of muted greens and tonal hues inspires a sense of peace, starting with a House Of Orange paper pendant hanging low over the coffee table “to create a bit more cosiness and mood”, says Alison. “Our cabinetry, the ‘Terra O’ wall light from Marz Designs (in background) and pendant all have green in them, and that talks to the rest of the colours within the house.” >

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

173

STUDY Framed by curtains from

LIVING AREA A ‘Tierra Grande’

DIY Blinds, a leafy outlook brings the outdoors inside. “This room is nice, warm and a great place to relax when my husband doesn’t hog the chair!” says Alison, referring to the vintage Ikea chaise. The mix of a pendant by MRD Home, black drawers from Boyd Blue and an Ikea cowhide rug set the mood. “It’s a working space but also a getaway space to chill out,” explains Alison of the sumptuous seating area.

fossilised limestone coffee table by En Gold stars in the living area (opposite, top), which used to be the dining spot. Underfoot, a ‘Diva’ rug by The Rug Collection complements a custom modular sofa (try Harvey Norman for similar). The dining table (opposite, bottom) sits within the open-plan living area: turn to page 177 to see the clever design feature behind those beautiful bi-fold doors. >

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

*APPROXIMATE COSTS DO NOT INCLUDE TRADES. BUDGET DOES NOT INCLUDE ALL FEATURES IN THIS SPACE. ARTWORK (TOP) BY UNKNOWN ARTIST

omeowners Alison and Dave put in an offer on this 1930s Californian bungalow in Melbourne after falling in love with its period features – from the 3.1-metre-high ceilings to the ornate cornices and ceiling roses. However, their offer was rejected. “My husband was emotionally invested in it, so I said, ‘Why don’t we go to the auction, just for closure?’,” says Alison. On the day, once they realised there weren’t many bidders, they jumped in with a new offer that was accepted, kick-starting interior designer Alison’s journey of fashioning a dream home for her young family, which included daughter Ava, now five. “I got the keys upon settlement and, the same day, ripped up the carpets to reveal these beautiful preserved Baltic pine floorboards underneath,” she says. “Then we sat in the house for six months before we began the renovation, to get to know the space, the function, the flow and, most importantly for me, the natural light.” Over two-and-a-half years, Alison came up with a modern, light treat. She started by removing the kitchen from the middle of the house and rearranging the rooms into a series of open-plan spaces. “It was vital to not move structural walls or interfere with the envelope of the property,” she says. “I did about 20 floor plans and utilised every centimetre. It’s not huge, but we now have the perfect family home – and that was my intention from the beginning.” >

BEFORE

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* LIVING AREA & STUDY (COMBINED) CARPET: $1699. LIGHTING: $1200. FURNITURE: $6350. CURTAINS & BLINDS: $815. TOTAL: $10,064.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

175

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

“THE CURVED ISLAND BENCH IS THE CENTREPIECE AND IS THE FOCAL POINT THAT THE OLD HOUSE MISSED” ~ ALISON, HOMEOWNER & DESIGNER

KITCHEN Alison’s secret for making the most of a small

space? Storage. She maximised bench space in the kitchen by installing ceiling-high, Shaker-style oak cabinetry with brass handles by The Society Inc. Marble benchtops by RHF Stone and vertical kit-kat tiles from Academy Tiles create a neutral backdrop for enchanting vintage pieces. The pièce de résistance is the painting by Bonnie Gray titled Wonder Full. “We had this big white wall and really needed something to lift the space,” says Alison. “I love blush, I love earthy tones, and they were all in this artwork. It’s the absolute prime spot for it.”

LAUNDRY Tucked away inside bifold doors painted in

Porter’s Paints Sable, the laundry (above) was another way to save space in Alison’s floor plan. “As a family of three, it works just right for us,” she says. “It all goes back to storage, and utilising the high ceilings means I have space for everything.” She also loves how natural light bounces off the whitewashed pine floorboards surrounding the hidden laundry. >

FLOOR PLAN BEFORE

AFTER

SITTING L’DRY

BED

KITCHEN

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

L’DRY

STORE DINING

BED

LIVING

ENTRY

DINING

BED BATH

BATH

KITCHEN

BATH LIVING

BATH

LIVING

BED

ENTRY

BEFORE

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* KITCHEN & LAUNDRY (COMBINED) BENCHTOPS: $3810. TILING: $740. CABINETRY: $26,200. TAPWARE: $300. APPLIANCES: $12,110. TOTAL: $43,160.

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

177

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

BEFORE

LESSONS LEARNT

MAIN BEDROOM “I wanted it

AVA’S BEDROOM Alison

to be a tranquil space, with earthy tones and texture,” says Alison of her and Dave’s bedroom (above). She introduced a rope pendant from Tigmi Trading, a beautiful rattan bedhead from CCSS and Hycraft ‘Petra’ loop pile carpet in Boudin by Godfrey Hirst. The earthy palette is encapsulated in the Morning Light print by Leah Bartholomew from Greenhouse Interiors, which pops against walls in Dulux Natural White and linen from Sage x Clare. Clever cabinetry conceals clothes – and more. “Hiding the ensuite behind joinery doors from Ikea gives it wow-factor,” says Alison.

chose a playful scheme for Ava (pictured left, with Alison) that still reflected the home’s stylish interior look. “She feels like she can have fun and be a kid, but I didn’t compromise on design,” says Alison. A rainbow tapestry from Oyoy Living Design is a delightful focal point above Ava’s bed, which is decorated in colourful throws and cushions by Sage x Clare, while a vintage rattan bookcase stores toys and books in bohemian style. As for the joyful walls, Alison says she and Dave “got creative by adding the two-tone paint to make it more playful”. >

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* MAIN BEDROOM AND AVA’S BEDROOM (COMBINED) CARPET: $2500. FURNITURE: $4800. LIGHTING: $1400. CURTAINS: $1400. HOMEWARES: $1500. PAINT: $120. TOTAL: $11,720.

178

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

RUG (LEFT) SAGE X CLARE ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

“The biggest lesson was the value of being on site in the critical stages of the bathroom rough-in,” says Alison. “Our plumber incorrectly roughed in the toilet trap, which meant we were no longer able to use the toilet I had bought for the main bathroom. If I had been there when he first arrived, to communicate the trap placement, I could have avoided the error.” The solution was to buy a new toilet. “It wasn’t ideal, but the overall look wasn’t compromised, so the outcome was still achieved.”

SHOP IN STORE

WHAT’S NEW THIS MONTH? WE’VE GONE SHOPPING FOR YOU TO DISCOVER THE LATEST PRODUCTS TO HIT THE SHELVES

FIRST ROW: COCO REPUBLIC The new Paros Outdoor Lounge Chair is a chic yet durable option, providing casual contemporary seating for your alfresco lifestyle. cocorepublic.com.au COMFORT HEAT Renovating your bathroom? Heat the floor with Underfloor Heating Floor Heating Kits from $400 +GST. Send your plans for a free quote. HARVEY NORMAN Part of the Australian-made collection exclusive to Harvey Norman, the Herringbone Dining Table is crafted from silvertop ash, with impressive parquetry decoration. With a choice of stains to suit your colour preference. Team with Herringbone Dining Chairs. harveynorman.com.au SECOND ROW: INADRAWER® Let inaDRAWER® help rid your home of clutter and chaos. Servicing Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, their unique Mobile Workshop can transform your household cabinets with custom-made, Blum pull-out drawer systems - creating functional, organised and accessible storage areas. Call 1300 462 372 or visit inadrawer.com.au PROVINCIAL HOME LIVING Generous proportions give the Coventry collection the shapely profile of classic French Provincial furniture. In the spirit of the original designs - which combined exceptional woods with expert craftsmanship - each piece is finished entirely by hand. Coventry Buffet & Hutch in Natural Oak, $4999. provincialhomeliving.com.au SMITTEN MERINO Available in six colours, this warm double-knit dressing gown is made with love in Tasmania. Perfect luxury for Sunday snuggling. RRP $499. smittenmerino.com THIRD ROW: UNITED INTERIORS Evoke a vintage photographic style with our Palm Springs Cool Print, available in multiple sizes and frame options. 130x100cm in natural frame, RRP $799. united-interiors.com.au WYNSTAN Crimsafe® Ultimate Doors are seven times stronger than the impact level required by Australian Standards and 40 per cent stronger than regular Crimsafe®. Australian-made, there is no better choice to protect your home. Visit wynstan.com.au or call 1300 667 679. ZEBRANO This range is unbelievable: all-embracing styles and sizes from 14 to 24. Kylie Niovara brings a wonderful new collection from gorgeously gothic to feminine and flirty. Otsana Sakura Dress, $340. zebrano.com.au

DH DREAM HOME SPECIAL

DREAM IDEAS Interior designer Alison shares her top three tips for tiling with handmade mosaics 1. “Prep, prep and prep!,” says Alison. “As mosaics are so thin (often only 6-7mm thick), it’s difficult to hide flaws as they need less glue. Much like painting, the answer is always in the prep.” 2. “Use a really good tiler. Not all tilers are created equal, and when you design elements outside the norm such as a curved bench, finding the right tiler is really important.” 3. “Get your cut right before they are laid. The old adage “Measure twice, cut once” couldn’t be truer for mosaics, particularly in a small space. Be clear on how you want the finished product to look before the tiler starts cutting.”

BEFORE

MAIN BATHROOM A bespoke Roman bathtub crafted from

bold terrazzo by De Fazio Tiles & Stone is the standout here (right). “We call it the indoor pool because it’s huge!” says Alison. She suggests always opting for a thicker tile, so the bath’s edges can be mitred, for a seamless finish. “The terrazzo has specks of rust pebbles through it, so that dictated the accessories,” says Alison, who added an ochre hand towel from Designstuff.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN* ENSUITE & MAIN BATHROOM (COMBINED) TILING: $3490. TAPWARE: $1790. VANITY: $1740. BASINS: $1145. LIGHTING: $920. TOTAL: $9085.

M U L L A W AY, N S W 2 2 O r c h i d R o a d

SOURCE BOOK

INTERIOR DESIGN ALISON LEWIS INTERIORS, 0458 180 444, ALISONLEWISINTERIORS.COM.AU BUILDER CJ&C CONSTRUCTION, 0400 592 681 JOINERY PROJECT CABINETS, 0405 784 235

BED

BATH

CAR

Set only a minute’s walk to Pristine Mullaway Beach and only 30 minutes drive north of Coffs Harbour, this beautiful solid 3 bedroom home also has an additional 2 bedroom modern unit newly built in 2017. AirBnb, two rentals or extended family, the choice is yours. This area is fast becoming a North Coast hot spot!

DA R CY K E A N

0405 116 697

MICHAEL HALL

0418 107 388

02 6656 4021

C21.com.au/coffsharbour

ST YLE STORE

Use code HME21 for 15% OFF

The home of worldly wares, a trove of natural rattan furniture and handmade decor, Moroccan and Turkish rugs, cushions, homewares and more. Explore online or visit us in our Gold Coast ﬂagship store.

tradertrove.com.au

@ABIINTERIORS

ABIINTERIORS.COM.AU

To advertise email thomas.upstone@aremedia.com.au

Featuring Elysian Commercial Pull Out Mixer, Imes Cabinetry Pull & Elsa Cabinetry Knob

hello@tradertrove.com.au

@tradertrove

poppyslittletreasures.com

www.united-interiors.com.au 1/10 Harvest Court Southport QLD 4215

UnitedInteriorsAU

united_interiors

ARTWORKS - United Interiors - PHOTOGRAPHER - the.palm.co DESIGN STYLING - Oak & Orange

ART & ST YLE STORE

MELLISSA READ-DEVINE

Contemporary Impressionism

www.readdevine.com

Whether it’s a uniquely designed BBQ to socialise around, a custom centre piece for your backyard to marvel at or you wish to maximise your backyard’s potential during the cold winters nights - Unique Fire Pits can make your dream a reality

To advertise email thomas.upstone@aremedia.com.au

uniqueﬁrepits.com.au

AM 18563/20 Julie Nangala Robertson Mina Mina Jukurrpa (Mina Mina Dreaming) 2020 Acrylic on Belgian linen 152 x 91cm

ST YLE STORE The Montauk Lighting Co. brings Australia distinctive, quality feature lighting, created by acclaimed international designers including Kelly Wearstler, Ralph Lauren Home and AERIN through Visual Comfort & Co. and Tigermoth Lighting. Let us help you make a statement in light.

PROUDLY MADE IN TASMANIA

montauklightingco.com 08 9380 6239 Interiors by Grey Peg Interiors Photo by Gathering Light

THE

M ONTAU K L IG HT ING C O.

Premium Home Brands at Best Prices www.livingstyles.com.au

Furniture

Home Decor

10000+

8000+

Styles

Lighting

Rugs

4000+

10000+

Styles

FURNITURE • HOMEWARE • LIGHTING • RUGS • KITCHENWARE

FREE EXPRESS SHIPPING Australia wide

Smitten Merino founded 2007 Superﬁne Merino wool ActiveWear and Fashion for both Men and Women.

Log on at www.livingstyles.com.au/hb or scan QR code to sign up.

Call 03 6212 0197 for expert advice or

*Terms & conditions apply, please see sign up page for details

shop online at smittenmerino.com

To advertise email thomas.upstone@aremedia.com.au

Australia’s Best Online Furniture & Home Décor Store

ST YLE STORE

Get Into Interior Design

PRE ORDER WEST HAMPTON 4 PCE SET

$1300.00

To advertise email thomas.upstone@aremedia.com.au

TheInteriorDesignAcademy.com

Aluminium

122 BAY STREET, BRIGHTON VICTORIA PHONE: 0448 865 728 TO ORDER WWW.MRSBLANCHETTS.COM

ST YLE STORE

ǁŚĞĞůŝĞ ďŝŶ ƐƚŝĐŬĞƌƐ WZKh >z D /E t

1800 336 153

ĚĞƐŝŐŶ Ăƌƚ

info@clementinesleepwear.com.au

ǁǁǁ͘ŐƌŽǀĞǁĞƐůĞǇ͘ĐŽŵ

clementinesleepwear.com.au

INTERNAL DRAWERS INSIDE YOUR EXISTING CUPBOARDS 1

For 20% off use the code HOMEBEAUTIFUL at checkout

We can do: 1. Pantry 2. Underbench 3. Undersink

■ Easy Access ■ Maximise Storage ■ Custom Made on Site

Visit us at www.inadrawer.com.au or call us for a quote on 1300 INA DRAWER (1300 462 372) Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane

shop online, instore or at a stockist near you

ellaandsunday.com.au

* * * Protects surfaces inside & outside the home to make them look better and last longer

NSW Pool & Spa Expo 1-2 May NSW Home Show 21-23 May

Guaranteed

CREATE YOUR TROPICAL OASIS Bamboo rod screens are perfect for privacy screens, pool fencing and a variety of shading options. Choose from a range of styles for a reﬁned or more rustic ﬁnish.

100%

Food-Grade Wax

ORDER ONLINE OR FIND A STOCKIST NEAR YOU www.howardproducts.com.au 1800 672 646

To advertise email thomas.upstone@aremedia.com.au

Wax-It-All

UNSUNG ICONS:

WALK-IN WARDROBE COMEDIAN DAVID SMIEDT TAKES AN IRREVERENT, BUT APPRECIATIVE, LOOK AT THE CLASSIC THINGS THAT DEFINE YOU-BEAUT AUSSIE LIFE ILLUSTRATION MATT COSGROVE

o understand Australia’s relationship with what have essentially become small rooms in our homes, you have to understand our relationship with what goes into these spaces. Namely, clothes. As much as the Asos/Net-A-Porter generation believes its the first to harness global fashion, all that has really changed are price, income, ordering mechanisms and delivery mechanisms. OK, everything. Well within living memory, you would pore over a catalogue written and printed in Savile Row, carefully take your own measurements, then send away – oldie speak for ‘add to basket’ – for a garment that would arrive in roughly half a year’s time. And barring fluctuations in body size, clothes were meant to last, to be mended and eventually passed down to siblings or children – thus saving cash on the way. Children had two sets of gear – school and play. Grown-ups, too – except theirs were work and leisure, with maybe a suit or frock for weddings/funerals/court. As mass production out of developing nations gained momentum in the 1980s and beyond, regular folk could afford the same multiples the toffs splashed out on, although with an unspoken diminishment in quality. This was a massive shift in the consumer mindset. Type the words ‘How many shoes did…’ into Google and it will still complete the sentence by adding ‘Imelda Marcos have’. The answer is 1060, if you’re playing at home, but the point is that the ex-Philippines First Lady was reviled for such decadence. Now that stat is #lifegoals. It was inevitable that our wardrobes would expand to match our growing obsession with fashion and its luminaries. Opening a cupboard to an ever-expanding catalogue made it difficult to find what you were looking for – with the squished shelves and all – so a design modification was required. We couldn’t go up without adding a storey, nor could we go wider without it feeling like you were at the drycleaners. Depth was the answer, and so began the era of the walk-in wardrobe (WIW). Lest you think we are anti the WIW, it should be pointed out that they were, are and will continue to be masterfully designed blends of hanging and shelf space. Often created out of timber in lacquered shades of honey, they are an ode to the art of the joiner.

186

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

The WIW’s rampant growth was further boosted by a slew of reality TV shows giving us plebs a glimpse into the lifestyles of rich and famous people whose family’s claim to fame was naming children with the same initial letter. Even if the words Kryptonite, Kaleidoscope or Kindergarten didn’t appear on our driver’s licences, we wanted not only their wardrobe items but the shrines in which they were hung. Walk-ins became the millennial version of the backyard spa. They were and are a sign that you’re doing better than OK. Display became as crucial as design, as the couture you’d dropped your hard-earned dividends on could be arrayed in Vuittoned ranks. If you were really minted and lived in a humid climate like Singapore or Darwin, you could also have the whole room climate-controlled so that your leatherware remained pristine. This actually happened. The first generation of WIWs were designed to be shared by two inhabitants of a home – most commonly in the His-side-and-Her-side configuration, like the sinks in the bathroom. If the square metreage allowed, there might even be space for a couch on which to sit while you popped your shoes on – or, better still, an island cabinet that provided the perfect surface for some light folding on laundry day.

millennial better

“WALK-INS BECAME THE VERSION OF THE BACKYARD SPA. THEY WERE AND ARE A SIGN THAT YOU’RE DOING THAN OK” WIWs are no longer the domain of the rich and famous. They have entered the mainstream, satisfying the primary criteria of solid design – they make life easier. And the adding of one to a home is practically guaranteed to deliver a return on investment come eventual sale time. Perhaps the last word should be left to the Patron Saint of Dressing Rooms, her holiness Carrie Bradshaw from Sex And The City, who noted: “I like my money where I can see it. Hanging in my closet.”

640WD Classic European Cast-Iron. Dovre’s 640WD is a wood-fire stove in the most classic sense. European-made of the finest cast-iron with a side-loading door for added convenience, the 640WD is capable of warming up to 200m2 and offers rear or top flue connection options. Dovre’s best-selling stove, the 640WD is now available in Australia.

640WD Log Length:

45cm Width / Height / Depth:

660 x 760 x 565 Output (kW): Nom / Min / Max

9.0 / 3.3 / 11.0

DOVRE

Fire with Character www.dovre.com.au

Distributed exclusively by: Scandia Group Pty Ltd., 58 Access Way, Carrum Downs, VIC. 3201