1dfdfvvdf by sdvsvssaavv

AFFORDABLE ALL AUSSIE STYLE

REAL READERS’ HOMES + EXPERT TIPS + DIYs + SHOPPING + FOOD BEST BUYS

KIDS’ ROOMS

341i ns t a n t

SUMMER UPDATES

FAB REAL-LIFE OUTDOOR ROOMS

LIGHT & BRIGHT READER HOMES CHARMING QUEENSLANDER SUN-FILLED ENTERTAINER CUTE HOLIDAY COTTAGE

INSPIRATION FOR EVERY ROOM

RESORT STYLE

THE NEW LAIDBACK LOOKS ON A BUDGET

10 easy ways to add colour

EASY FOOD

GREAT MAKES

Steal the style of Riza’s gorgeous vintage villa p26

Refresh your kitchen cabinets

Indoor plant holiday survival guide p90

FAREWELL FAMILY CLUTTER!

101

SHORTCUTS TO AN ORGANISED HOME P68

JANUARY 2018 AU $5.99

•Jamie Durie’s blissful garden revamp • Miguel Maestre’s tasty tacos

BILLY bookcase and EKBY JÄRPEN/EKBY BJÄRNUM wall shelf combination, white

353

A modern classic ‘‘ When I got the assignment to design a simple, functional and smart storage solution for books, I couldn’t have imagined that BILLY bookcase would wind up in so many homes across the world… I was especially pleased with the adjustable shelves and depth of the bookcase—perfect for books. BILLY bookcase is one of my favourites, and I hope it continues to be around for many years to come.”

GILLIS LUNDGREN DESIGNER, SWEDEN 1929–2016

For 40 years, the BILLY bookcase has been the choice of collectors and book lovers all over the world. Choose from a variety of sizes and finishes to suit your space and your collection, then expand your BILLY combination as your collection grows. Add glass doors to keep away dust, or solid doors to create hidden storage. Craft your perfect storage solution with the BILLY range—a modern design classic. For more details see in-store or visit IKEA.com.au

BILLY bookcase and EKBY JÄRPEN/EKBY BJÄRNUM wall shelf combination, white $353 Combination includes: 1×BILLY bookcase $75 W80×D28, H202cm. 103.515.68 1×BILLY height extension unit $30 W80×D28, H35cm. 003.515.64 2×BILLY bookcase $59/ea W40×D28, H202cm. 403.515.43 2×BILLY height extension unit $20/ea W40×D28, H35cm. 403.515.62 1×EKBY JÄRPEN/EKBY BJÄRNUM wall shelf combination $89.98 W239×D28cm. 392.403.15

THE

r e v e u o y d l u o w y wh r e b m i t a choose

DECK

“ Since we upgraded to HardieDeck™, we’re no longer embarrassed to invite people

over. There’s no rotting, splintering or warping. It looks and feels just like a deck but is completely different.”

DISCOVER MORE AT HARDIEDECK. COM. AU

- Mandy & Nick DOWNLOAD A LOOK BOOK AT HARDIEDECK.COM.AU AND DISCOVER MORE.

(

CONTENTS AFFO RDABLE,

E A S Y,

D OABLE

)

MAKEOVERS

EVERY ISSUE

SHOP THE COVER Recreate Riza’s eclectic style.

BACKYARD BLISS The TLR team turn a tired backyard into a beautiful space for wedding ceremonies.

TREND ALERT Outside or inside, a matt finish is the way to go, says James Treble.

READERS’ HOMES

HIGH/LOW To splurge or not, you decide.

MAKE IT Turn plywood into a floating shelf – we’ve got three easy DIY options for you.

STYLISH BUYS The latest fabulous and affordable finds.

RIZA After living overseas in apartments, Riza and Cameron found the ideal family home: an old Queenslander on a large block.

38 LUCY

110

TRAVEL Have campervan, will travel – around the Great Ocean Road and Kangaroo Island.

Lucy and Michael worked fast to transform a Blue Mountains cottage into a cosy weekender that they also rent out.

113 STOCKISTS/PRIVACY NOTICE 114 MAKE IT

BROOKE The stylish interiors of Brooke and Andrew’s inner-city Brisbane home are filled with light, colour and pattern.

M Y B ACK YA R D

EASY FOOD

Four good-looking wallpaper projects.

JUST ADD PAINT Cherie Barber’s step-by-step guide to transforming kitchen cabinetry.

68 FAREWELL FAMILY CLUTTER Sort out your home, room by room, for a more organised and happier life.

ST YLE & DECOR ATE

94 MADE IN AUSTRALIA

How to grow native flowers – they look great both in the garden and in a vase.

FIND A NOOK There’s plenty of sunny and shady spots to enjoy in this Blue Mountains garden.

OUTDOOR KITCHEN Take the living outside and set up alfresco food preparation and dining areas.

SHOP ’N’ STYLE Stylist Fiona Michelon creates two new looks for a living room and bedroom.

102

10 WAYS TO ADD COLOUR These cheerful updates are easy to achieve – and no paint is involved!

107

DUCK & CORN TACOS Try Miguel Maestre’s healthy fast food.

BEAUTIFUL ON THE OUTSIDE Our readers’ outdoor rooms are just made for sunny days and balmy nights.

108

BRING A PLATE These portable meals are perfect for a summery lunch or weekend picnic.

SENSATIONAL SLICES Pop one or two of these easy and delicious treats into the family’s packed lunches.

FORGET ME, NOT! How to keep your indoor plant family alive and well while you holiday away.

Find us at homestolove.com.au/hp FACEBOOK.COM/HOMESPLUSMAG

@HOMESPLUSMAG

HOMESPLUSMAG

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 5

EDITORIAL Editor Sue Wheeler Deputy editor Karen Spresser Art director Bridie Mahoney Senior designer Judie Siu Market editor Kellie Valmadre Chief subeditor Catherine Sanders Contributing designer Chantelle Galaz Contributing subeditor Molly Furzer Contributing stylist Fiona Michelon Editorial coordinator Lisa Burden lburden@bauer-media.com.au PRODUCTION Production ad controller Dominic Roy Production planner Chris Clear ADVERTISING Director of brands & category Jane Serember (02) 9282 8904 Group brand manager homes Abby Cohen (02) 9282 6587 Brand manager Paige Gumbley (02) 8268 4639 INTERSTATE ADVERTISING NSW Head of direct sales Brigitte Guerin (02) 9282 8249 VIC Head of direct sales Christine Lester (03) 9823 6382 QLD Head of sales & solutions Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 SA Group business manager Jo Moroney (08) 8267 5032 WA Sales manager Chris Eyres (08) 6160 8964 NEW ZEALAND ADVERTISING +61 2 9282 8505 MARKETING, RESEARCH & CIRCULATION Assistant publisher Kathleen Chu Research & insights manager Miriam Condon Subscriptions campaign manager Thea Mahony SYNDICATION syndication@bauer-media.com.au BAUER MEDIA Chief executive officer Paul Dykzeul General manager publishing Fiorella Di Santo Commercial director Paul Gardiner Director media solutions Warwick Taylor Business manager Marisa Spasich Letters to: homes+, Reply Paid 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000. Published by Bauer Media Pty Limited (ACN 053 273 546). Printed at PMP Limited, 31–37 Heathcote Rd, Moorebank, NSW 2170. National distribution by Gordon and Gotch Australia Pty Ltd. The trademark homes+ is the property of Bauer Consumer Media Limited and is used under licence. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Bauer 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. © 2017 Bauer Media Pty Limited. All rights reserved. ISSN 2203-871X homes+ magazine is published by Bauer Media Pty Limited SUBSCRIPTION SALES AND INQUIRIES Magshop.com.au magshop@magshop.com.au 13 61 16, 8am-6pm (EST) Monday-Friday Magshop, GPO Box 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000

Stained Oak Timber We love the look of timber for its natural beauty, warmth and timeless sophistication.

Pictured: Stained Oak Timber | Macadamia â&#x20AC;¢ Homes+010118

1300 CARPET CARPETCOURT.COM.AU

RE A D ERS’

HELLO! January is all about new beginnings and fresh starts and for the homes+ team that’s never been so true. But before new beginnings there’s always an end and I’m sad to say that this is the last issue of homes+ magazine. I’m grateful for my brilliant team and thank them for putting their hearts and souls into homes+ and for being such a great collaborative bunch of women. Thank you, too, to our lovely contributing gurus: James Treble, Cherie Barber, Meredith Kirton and Fiona Michelon, to all our talented photographers and to The Living Room family for their partnership. I’ve had a wonderful time producing homes+ (and I’m sure I speak for all of us). It’s been a privilege to work in an area that’s also a passion and to be surrounded by so much inspiration and so many creative ideas and people. We’ve always tried to make having a home you love both accessible and affordable and we know that’s one of the things you’ve enjoyed about homes+. And, of course, we’ve loved featuring so many wonderful reader homes around Australia, and we thank

H OM ES

RIZ A About me Hi, I’m Riza. When my husband Cameron and I returned to Australia after apartment living overseas, we were keen to find a home with outdoor space. Our old Queenslander on a large block is perfect for us and our children Sam, 14, Myla, 11, and Avy, 8. We’ve slowly updated it with a distinct Asian colonial style. WANDER THROUGH RIZA’S HOME, PAGE 26

these families for opening their doors and sharing their renovation experiences, styling inspiration and DIY projects. Finally, thanks to you, for supporting us, loving what we do and being such enthusiastic readers. We wish you luck in all your future projects, big and small. I hope you enjoy this issue of “sunny” ideas. Have a really wonderful summer and make the most of this lovely outdoor lifestyle of ours. Here’s to a joyful, safe and peaceful 2018. Happy New Year from the team at homes+.

Pretty and playful. What’s not to love?

LU CY About me Hi, I’m Lucy. I live in Sydney’s inner-west with my husband Michael but a while ago bought a little house in the Blue Mountains. After three months of renovations, we listed it as a holiday rental. When it’s not booked we love spending time up there, enjoying the property’s art studio, large garden and amazing views. TAKE A PEEK AT LUCY’S CUTE COTTAGE, PAGE 38

Bloom Tufted cushion cover in Soft White/Multicolour, $89.90, from Città. So colourful, and comfy, too!

ON TREND Felix clock in Forrest, $49.95, from Salt & Pepper.

I love the coastal watercolours in this piece.

Tropical outdoor ottoman in Blue, $20, from Kmart.

8 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

Rick Stein Coves of Cornwall 2L jug, $49.95, from Victoria’s Basement.

B RO O K E About me Hi, I’m Brooke. My husband, John, and I and our children Blake, 7, and Duke, 4, love our leafy neighbourhood which is only eight minutes from Brisbane. We recently updated the interiors and introduced more colour and pattern. I love our statement wallpaper – it has such impact and really adds life. CHECK OUT BROOKE’S STYLISH HOME, PAGE 48

PHOTOGRAPHY SCOTT HAWKINS (SUE’S PORTRAIT)

SUE SHOPS THE ISSUE

FROM BRUNCH ON THE DECK T O B A C K YA R D B A R B E C U E S , S E T U P ANY SPACE FOR A ST YLISH SUMMER WITH OUR NEW RANGE OF OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES.

Uniquely Australian inspiration and practical advice from the pages of House & Garden, homes+, real living a n d B e l l e . N o w u n d e r o n e r o o f.

four homes, one new address

G E T

T H E

LO O K

love it? buy it! SHOP THE COVER

PHOTOGRAPHY ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY (RIZA’S HOME)

Channel the eclectic style of Riza’s charming Queenslander with these great-value buys.

Home Republic Bilbao basket in White/Natural, $34.99, from Adairs.

Ladelle Dine Flora coasters, $24.95 for pack of 4, from Myer.

Kentia palm, 300mm, $66.50, from Bunnings.

Engraved pitcher, $69.95, from Zara Home.

Fijian II ceiling fan with rattan blades in Bronze/Coffee, 132cm, $369, from Beacon Lighting.

PERSONALIT Y

Dynasty planter, $69.95, from Alfresco Emporium.

PLUS

Jacquard-weave cushion cover in Natural/White, $14.99, from H&M.

Haven Coastal Chic Natural Beachcomber woven lantern, 23cm, $24.95, from Bunnings. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 11

WELCOME MATT Glossy finishes are giving way to a more sophisticated alternative, says our interior design expert James Treble.

WHILE WE OFTEN FOCUS on colour trends, these days it’s surface finishes that are really making their mark. And, this year, it’s matt all the way. The once dominant glossy look has been pushed aside, with technology now allowing us to enjoy the more natural, toned-down beauty of matt finishes, both inside and outside our homes.

Matt bathroom basins allow the shape of the vessel to shine rather than the finish. The new matt basins come in a range of whites, blacks and earthy colours to more subtle pastel shades like soft pink. Soft whites and black basins with a matt finish are also popular, giving basins a more understated, natural look and feel.

EXTERIOR FINISHES If you’re starting a build, renovating or looking to refresh the outside of your home, then consider products with a matt finish. An exciting new arrival in the building and renovation market is Colorbond Steel Matt, which is a softer more subtle look than its glossy cousin. It offers new designer opportunities in both external wall cladding and roofing with five colours available, from light to dark, including my personal fave, Basalt.

TILES Once, gloss tiles were the go-to for bathrooms and interiors, but they’re 12 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

no longer the only kid on the block now. Matt tiles create interesting, understated surfaces that absorb light and come with a low-maintenance finish. This allows the shape, texture and pattern of the tile to be the feature, instead of relying on the gloss level to create that wow-factor. Rachel Gilding, strategic designer at Beaumont Tiles, says that with their

textural finish, matt tiles are not only beautiful but add a touch of sleek, glamorous sophistication to a space. “They’re also low-slip and low-glare – making them perfect for wet areas and outdoor use,” she adds. “Their muted finish means they’re easier to keep clean, as they don’t show residue or wipe marks as easily as their gloss-finished cousins.”

PHOTOGRAPHY KATE CLARIDGE & JOHN PAUL URIZAR / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU; GETTY IMAGES

BATHROOM BASINS

T REN D Soft and subtle Right on-trend, Colorbond steel now comes in a matt ďŹ nish.

On the wall A matt black tiled splashback and single tap make a striking statement.

SHOP THE LOOK

A L ERT

1. Mondella Vivace single g bowl sin nk with drainer in Black, $379, from Bunnings. 2. Mercator Fiesta pendant light in Matt Black, $99, from Temple & Webster. 3. Dinera 18-piece dinner set in Light Pink, $29.99, from Ikea. 4. Colander and mixing bowl set in Grey, $8, from Target. 5. Dorf Obsidian sink mixer in Matt Black, $260, from Bunnings. 6. Rituals porcelain cup and saucer, $16.95, and teapot, $29.95, from Kikki.K. 7. Godmorgon Braviken washstand in Grey/Turquoise, $474 (excluding mixer), from Ikea.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 13

HIGH | LOW

In the market to splurge, or looking for a steal? It’s your call with these cool homewares. HIGH

ON TREND Felix clock in Forrest, $49.95, from Salt & Pepper.

HIGH

LOW

COLOUR CHANGING LED candle and remote control set, $10, from Kmart.

SCANDI FRESH Timber clock in Mint, $25, from Target.

HIGH HIGH

TEXTURE PLUS Miette cushion, $49, from Arro Home.

LOW

14 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

REAL WAX Ivory unscented flameless wax candles and remote control gift set, $69.95, from Real Safe Candles.

PLAYFUL LOOK Bloom Tufted cushion cover in Soft White/ Multicolour, $89.90, from Città.

PRETTY PINKS 2018 A5 weekly Buffalo diary in Dark Floral, $16.99, from Typo.

LOW

DESIGNER CHARM Kate Spade New York 2018 17-month agenda diary in Dahlia, medium, $65, from Papier d’Amour.

SH O PPI N G

HIGH

STYLISH SEAT Trento occasional chair in Soft Grey, $399, from James Lane.

DELUXE RIDE Luxe ride-on unicorn pool float, $99.95, from Sunnylife.

HIGH

LOW

WATER FUN Unicorn aquatic toy, $25, from Kmart.

LOW CLASSIC STYLE Strandmon chair in Nordvalla Dark Grey, $249, from Ikea.

HIGH

LOW FOUR PLAYERS Catalina croquet set, $79.95, from Sunnylife.

SIX PLAYERS Halex Premier 6 Player croquet set, $134.95, from Yard Games.

HIGH

BLOOMING GLOW Floral cactus candle, $19.95, from Zara Home.

LOW GO GREEN Potted cactus candles, $2 each, from Kmart.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 15

HIGH HIGH

BASKET WEAVE Miami dining chair in Navy/ White, $369, from Naturally Cane.

WATERRESISTANT Escape to Paradise outdoor cushion cover in Flying Flamingos, 45cm x 45cm, $79.95, from Hard to Find.

LOW

FRENCH CAFE Milan Direct Paris wicker cafe dining chair in Black/White, $269 for set of 2, from Temple & Webster.

SOFA CUSHION Majbritt cushion cover in Beige, 50cm x 50cm, $6.99, from Ikea.

HIGH

WOVEN RATTAN Home Republic Amelie shopping basket in White, $129.99, from Adairs.

LOW

16 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

VINTAGE STYLE Big Luggy basket in Natural, $175, from Olli Ella.

THREE SPEEDS Goldair metal desk fan in Satin Silver, 30cm, $89.95, from The Good Guys.

HIGH

LOW

TILT AND TURN Nu-Tec retro desk fan, 30cm, in Chrome, $29.89, from Bunnings.

SH O PPI N G

HIGH MOVING FUN Leka baby gym in Birch/ Multicolour, $45, from Ikea.

HIGH TEA TIME Cristina Re Do What You Love mug, $29.95, from David Jones.

LOW

BRIGHT BITS Wooden play gym, $17, from Kmart.

GOLD TRIM Hello Gorgeous porcelain cup, $12.99, from H&M.

HIGH

STAINLESS STEEL Vue West End ice bucket in Gold, $99.95, from Myer.

LOVELY OAK Kaneko entertainment unit in Natural Oak, $699, from Brosa.

LOW

MID-CENTURY LOOK Milan Direct Oscar TV unit in Oak, $399, from Temple & Webster.

HANDMADE SPLENDOUR Mr Ice Bucket brushed metal ice bucket in Gold, $59, from Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Kensington.

LOW

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 17

D IY

PROJ EC T

FLOATING SHELF

Turn plywood into one – or all three – of these nifty shelves. They make a great space-spacing alternative to a bedside table. YO U • 2 sheets untreated plywood, 18mm x 1200mm x 1200mm • tape measure • pencil • handsaw

WI LL

N EED

• wood glue • screwdriver • 1 packet 32mm wood screws • sandpaper • square

• dot hook/s • hammer • short nail • string • jigsaw

FLOATING BOX SHELF

On one sheet of plywood, measure and mark a strip 350mm x 1200mm. Use handsaw to cut strip.

From this strip, measure and mark 2 squares, 350mm x 350mm, for the top and bottom pieces. Cut with handsaw. Measure and mark 2 pieces, 150mm x 350mm, for the sides. Cut.

Glue and screw the sides onto the top and bottom pieces to create a box. Sand off edges.

Top tips There are many ways to install a floating shelf, depending on what you plan to use it for and the weight of the objects you will be placing on it. Explore your options for materials at your local hardware store. We used metal brackets and wall hooks as they are more discreet. Make sure you always fix your shelf to a wall stud. Try painting your shelf in various colours and don’t be afraid to be bold. A burst of colour would look great in a children’s bedroom.

18 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

M A K E

STAND SHELF

You could use the hook to hang jewellery.

Using the remainder of the sheet of ply, measure and mark a strip 350mm wide. Use the handsaw to cut off strip. You should have a piece of ply measuring 1200mm x 350mm.

Measure and mark this strip into 2 pieces: 900mm wide for the back and 300mm wide for the shelf.

Glue and screw the 2 pieces at a right angle, keeping the screws in line. Sand off all edges.

Position decorative hook/s as desired. Attach hook/s to shelf using wood glue.

TEXT CATHERINE WILKINSON & MARTIN LAIDLAW

HALF-ROUND SHELF

Measure and mark the centre of the other sheet of ply. Lightly hammer a short nail part way into the mark.

Measure and cut a piece of string about 400mm. Attach one end to the nail and tie the other end around a pencil, ensuring the string length is 300mm when attached to both.

4 5 6

Remove nail and string and use a jigsaw to cut out the circle. Draw a line down the middle of the circle. Cut along line with handsaw.

Lay one half-circle flat and stand the other on top of it to form shelf. Glue and screw the 2 pieces together with 32mm screws. Sand off edges.

Stretching string tight, draw a circle (600mm diameter) around the nail. For more homes+ how-to inspiration, visit

homestolove.com.au/homes-plus HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 19

24 STYLISH BUYS UNDER $100 At homes+ we believe having a beautiful home doesn’t have to cost the earth. Every month we find you the latest looks for less.

OUR PICK

1. Acapulco replica chair in Black, $39, from Kmart. 2. Mastholmen outdoor coffee table, $85, from Ikea. 3. Aruba Ethnic cushion in Blue/White, $39, from Early Settler. 4. Ecology Watercolour 12-piece dinner set in Aqua, $99, from Temple & Webster. 5. Dusen Dusen Double Dot outdoor cushion in Light Pool, $59, from West Elm. 6. Morgan & Finch Weave acrylic drinkware in Aqua, from $6.95, from Bed Bath N’ Table. 7. Coasters in Mint Green, $4.99 for pack of 4, from H&M. 8. Lucia rattan chair, $49, from Kmart. 9. Dotto cushion in Blue, $40, from Freedom. 10. Olympia outdoor rug in Blue, 180cm, $99, from Fab Habitat. 11. Joy outdoor side table in Green, $29, from Super Amart. 12. Candle lantern, large, $39.99, from H&M. 20 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

Staycation style

SH O PPI N G

Who needs to book into a resort when you can set up your own holiday haven in the garden. Think sea-blues and aqua accents and resort-style coloured cane. Now all you need is a fresh coconut!

STYLE IT! A mix of bold patterns and shapes brings a uniqueness to this space.

So laid-back Rattan and Eastern-style timber furniture give this outdoor room a classic colonial feel. Natural materials are cleverly contrasted with contemporary replica dining chairs and pendant lights, making the space modern and quirky.

STYLE IT! The abundance of fabrics, timber, wicker and rattan in this lovely room shows you can never have too much texture.

22 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

Classic blue-and-white homewares stand the test of time – there’s always something new to add each summer. Take your pick!

OUR PICK

13. Ombre Home Summer Love rattan stool in Natural, $29.99, from Spotlight. 14. Morgan & Finch decorative metal edge tray in Aqua, from $39.95, from Bed Bath N’ Table. 15. Ombre Home Tangier Moroccan cushion in Blue/Green, $9.99, from Spotlight. 16. Round tray in Petrol, $24.99, from H&M. 17. Holmsel armchair in Black, $69, from Ikea. 18. Inartisan Drop rattan lampshade, $99, from Temple & Webster. 19. Patterned cotton rug in Grey, 28cm x 55cm, $39.99, from H&M. 20. Tropical outdoor ottoman, $20, from Kmart. 21. Replica Philippe Starck Masters chair in White, $69, from Matt Blatt. 22. Rick Stein Coves of Cornwall 2L jug, $49.95, from Victoria’s Basement. 23. Salad bowl in Matt Navy, $5, from Kmart. 24. Rachel cushion in Blue, $40, from Freedom. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 23

O U $ T Transform your body and get healthy with MACROS. Includes 65 recipes with their complete macro breakdown, so ou can achieve your ggoals while lovin the food yyou eat!

49 NO .9 W 5

AVAILABLE AT SOPHIEGUIDOLIN.COM.AU AND WHERE ALL GOOD BOOKS ARE SOLD

HOM ES (

REAL

RIZA’S ECLECTIC HOME

PEOPLE,

REAL

ST YLE

)

STUNNING READER HOMES COME ON IN!

PHOTOGRAPHY ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY (RIZA’S & BROOKE’S HOMES); ANDREW FINLAYSON (LUCY’S HOME)

BROOKE’S SUNNY ABODE PG

LUCY’S HOLIDAY RENTAL STEAL THEIR ST YLE! WONDERFUL WALL ART, DECORATING WITH NEW PASTELS AND MORE!

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 25

I love giving small spaces Riza’s charming family home is full of creative ideas, vintage collections and adorable outdoor rooms. It’s the perfect summer house.

BEST THING WE EVER DID… was convert the double carport to a pool house – it works perfectly as a second kitchen, living and dining room. I wish I had… installed black Tahitian fans! Our white ones are beautiful but look dirty quickly.

26 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

To the ﬂoor In striking contrast to the walls, the front deck is painted in Dulux Black Orbit.

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

Fresh face The exterior was recently refreshed with a coat of paint in Dulux Snowy Mountains.

Come on in A long hallway welcomes visitors and stretches to the living room at the home’s rear.

“WE HAD BEEN LIVING in Asia and Africa for more than a decade when we decided to come home to Australia. The majority of our time overseas was spent living in high-rise apartments with no gardens, trees or grass of our own to enjoy, so we longed for wide open spaces. But logistically, we both needed to live in a city for work purposes. I’m not from Brisbane but my husband is, so we started there. We thought a Queenslander on a big block would give us everything we needed.

TEXT SAMANTHA BRENNAN PHOTOGRAPHY ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY

SPACE OUT We started out looking for a block that was at least 800 square metres – the house itself wasn’t as important, as originally we intended to build. Then we found our 115-year-old Queenslander, nicely renovated in traditional style. With its heritage charm and 1200 square metre block, we were smitten.

For the past 12 years we’ve been updating the house to suit our needs and style. We put in a new kitchen, which is now 10 years old, converted the front formal dining space into two extra bedrooms, added a bathroom, installed a pool and built a pool house complete with a barbeque, kitchen and shower/bathroom. Cameron is a civil engineer and very analytical, whereas I’m driven by both aesthetics and the desire to efficiently use the structures we have rather than adding on more square meterage. We use every area of our house and block, creating spaces that support the outdoor lifestyle for which Queensland is so famous. The conversion of our double carport into a pool house has basically given us a second dining space, kitchen, bathroom and living area, without changing the original footprint.

M EET RIZ A

About me Hi, I’m Riza, and I’m a stylist (Instagram: @villastinteriors). I live in south Brisbane with my husband Cameron, a civil engineer, our children, Sam, 14, Myla, 11, and Avy, 8, and our black Labrador, Juniper. Top tip Find out what you like and don’t follow trends. Your style may evolve, but stay true to things that give you joy.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 27

COLONIAL COOL Living and working in south-east Asia and Africa has really influenced our style, so it tends towards Asian colonial. Cameron and I love the cool, relaxed luxury, dark timbers and exotic decor with an air of sophistication. Ours is an eclectic collection of furniture and art from op shops and antique stores in Australia and overseas. Plants and palms are a big part of this look and we have them everywhere, indoors and on the decks. I have a cane addiction, and I love anything Chippendale or Blanc de Chine. I like people to feel comfortable in my house – I don’t want anyone to worry about where they sit or how. The vibe I want is relaxed luxury – special and beautiful, but not precious.

ROOM BY ROOM We’ve tried to create seamless indooroutdoor spaces. The living room opens out with double French doors to the back deck, which has another sitting area surrounded by green foliage and

hanging baskets. We often use these spaces as one extended living area, particularly in summer. Another favourite space is the kitchen, where family and friends drink endless cups of tea and eat countless meals. I have a series of photographs I’ve taken over the years of my kids at the table. Each photo is shot the same way – the table is the same, but the kids have grown from babies to teens.

PIECES OF ME Styling a home is about so much more than pretty cushions and flowers. It’s about creating a place you love to be, that tells people who you are without words. Your home is somewhere you should want to be. Our home is lived in, every bit of it. The girls draw on the front deck, I work from my laptop in every room, we entertain out on the back deck and every evening we eat together in the kitchen. In a sentence, our home is somewhere we enjoy being and miss when we are away.” Touch of tradition A stove has been placed in this original alcove for more than 100 years.

In the family The table was from Riza’s grandmother. The marble top is new but the timber legs are original.

PRETTY AS A PICTURE When styling a shelf or buffet, Riza suggests grouping items together in clusters or varying heights and shapes. “Don’t spread them out like a supermarket shelf,” she says.

RE A D ERS’

FAB FIND Capzi shell chandeliers bought in the Philippines.

H OM ES

Add a retro bar cart as a side table.

Colour crush In the television room, a pink art deco lamp found at Vinnies ﬂanks a gold velvet sofa from Oz Design Furniture.

STYLE SENSE “I’m influenced by my upbringing, travels and my grandmother,” says Riza. “As an expat kid I lived in the Philippines, Laos and India, and our homes had a colonial vibe – huge papasan chairs, indoor plants, cane and Asian inspired decor. In Australia, I spent a lot of time with my paternal grandmother who had amazing style; her home was wallpaper, velvet and chandeliers!”

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 29

TIme to collect “I needed a place to house all my treasures,” says Riza of the built-in bookcase. Sofa from Oz Design Furniture.

The fabric on the chair picks up the blue and white plates.

KEEP IT GREEN Riza has plants on the ground and tables, and suspended from the ceiling.

SHOP THE LOOK

1 2

6 8

1. Odette velvet ottoman in Blush Pink, $479, from Brosa. 2. Lorne basket, large, $35, from Freedom. 3. The Home Collective Collection Nola vase in Textured Pink, $54 for set of 2, from Temple & Webster. 4. Textured fringe cushion in Ocean Blue, $20, from Target. 5. Lifestyle Traders rattan and bamboo serving trays in Brown, $79 for set of 2, from Temple & Webster. 6. Large handle vase, $20, from Target. 7. Morgan & Finch Panama outdoor cushion in Ink/White, $29.95, from Bed Bath N’ Table. 8. Churchill Blue Willow tea cup, $12, and tea saucer, $8, from Victoria’s Basement. 30 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

RE A D ERS’

THE GREAT OUTDOORS When renovating their home, Riza and Cameron paid close attention to the outdoor spaces. The back deck, with layers of plants and textured soft furnishings, functions as an everyday living space. “This area is sheltered and leafy, and great for escaping the summer heat,” says Riza. “We use it nine months of the year – we sit out there after school every weekday for afternoon tea, and hang out there every weekend.”

H OM ES

Riza bought the rosewood coffee table in Hanoi.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 31

Shine on Accessories in earthy gold work well with white walls and timber pieces.

Touch-me texture The bed is layered with velvet cushions and an embroidered silk quilt.

RIZA LOVES

GOLD ACCENTS Add a touch of glamour to everyday items.

4 Best buy Riza loves the original 1920s Maison Charles pineapple palm lamps she found for just $30.

5 6 1. Round mirror in Gold, $29.95, from H&M. 2. Tibetan sandalwood fragrant candle and stand in Gold, $7, from Kmart. 3. Elsie brushed aluminium planter in Gold, from $34.95, from Sheridan. 4. Mirror with Gold edges, $89.95, from Zara Home. 5. Ava glass lantern in Gold, tall, $79.95, from Sheridan. 6. Resin and glass tray with handles in Gold, $69.95, from Zara Home.

32 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

Black walls show off the colour in the vintage oil paintings.

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

Shelves above the bed make the most of available wall space.

Girl stuﬀ Myla’s room is simple and pretty. Riza’s mum made the crocheted bedspread years ago.

STUDY NOOKS In the bedrooms, living areas and outdoor spaces, Riza has added desks and tables where anyone in the family can sit and draw or write. In Myla’s room (above), a vintage desk is partnered with a simple stool. In Sam’s room (below), the desk is from Officeworks. A Chinese writing desk positioned in the living area was purchased in Hanoi. “I also send my older kids out to the front porch when they need quiet space for homework,” Riza says. “Myla is creative, and she likes to sit there when she sketches.”

For a similar pink velvet bedhead, try Brosa.

BEDROOM STYLE The bedheads give each bedroom personality. We love the turquoise one in Avy’s room (right) and the cane peacock bedhead in Myla’s bedroom (above). This is a vintage find from eBay, which Riza resprayed silver. Sam’s timber bedhead (far right) is from a pair given to Riza by her parents.

Letters, prints and plates make a eclectic gallery wall.

Sam’s bedlinen and curtains are from Ikea.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 33

Top tiles The new laundry has subway tiles and a farmhouse sink.

Glamour station The family bathroom combines a refurbished cane sideboard with an antique mirror and gold tapware and accessories. Neat street The little back deck leads to the laundry and guest nook.

MAKE IT! A PLACE TO POT Riza’s potting station is stylish and functional. “I love plants, and this is where I pot, split ond repot my green babies,” she says. Cameron made a stand for the old twin sink and the water was plumbed in. “I keep all my important gardening bits here – and of course I try to make it all look cute!”

Tree house cubby Riza’s husband Cameron built the cubby house around the fig tree not long after the family moved in, using timber recycled from their bathroom renovation and old fence palings. Galvanised buckets from Kmart were screwed on and function as planter boxes. And as it’s on the western side of the block, the cubby offers great city views from the top floor. “The girls play shops and cafes from the front underneath the striped awning – made from recycled VJ boards – and my little nephews and nieces love to play in it, too,” says Riza. “I think we will always keep the cubby, even when my own children are too big for it.”

RE A D ERS’

Quiet space “The front deck is one of my favourite spots to have a cuppa,” Riza says.

H OM ES

GREAT IDEA A lawn setting is a casual space to relax and enjoy a drink. Festoon lighting instantly creates a party atmosphere.

BRILLIANT BACKYARD When searching for their new home, Riza and Cameron had their hearts set on a large block with plenty of green space to soothe the senses. And they’ve made the most of it. “When we installed the pool we turned the carport into a pool house with a kitchen, barbeque and shower,” says Riza. “It’s where we host birthday, Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties. In the evening, with the pool lights on and festoons strung across to the mango tree, it is spectacular!”

Riza’s distinctive style continues in the pool house interiors. Splash down The Mediterranean blue of the ﬁbreglass pool is a great contrast to the lush greens of the garden.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 35

This and that Far from being thrown together, the eclectic look is the result of Rizaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artful curation over many years.

Inspired by Riza

CREATIVE WALLS Inject style and character into your rooms with eclectic groupings of art and beloved objects.

SPLASH A LITTLE personality, colour and drama on your walls with framed art, vintage finds and treasured pieces. By following Rizaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cues, you can create beautiful vignettes in every room with an eclectic selection of your favourite artworks, photographs and collections. Try grouping pieces according to style,

theme or colour, swapping them in and out until you fall in love with the overall look. Test run your edited choices on a flat surface like a table or the floor to see how they work together. To keep the look fresh and fun or add a touch of whimsy, throw a quirky artwork or unexpected piece into the mix.

RE A D ERS’

RIZA’S ART GALLERY

T REN DS

The art collection in the living area has grown and evolved over the years, with colours and themes providing continuity.

A favourite outﬁt (right down to the hat and shoes) has been styled to create an elegant display in the main bedroom.

PHOTOGRAPHY ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY (RIZA’S HOME)

Size, shape and colour unify the assorted small pieces that hang above the bedside table in the main bedroom.

In son Sam’s room, artworks – including a framed wolf drawing by his sister Myla – and vintage objects make a quirky mix.

6 7

Dark panelled walls in the master bedroom provide the perfect backdrop to showcase an array of art. From still life to landscape

and beyond, each piece looks part of a considered collection tied together in part by their similar gold-toned frames.

1. Endington framed canvas wall art, $199.95, from Sheridan. 2. Puebla dinner plate, $16, from Pottery Barn. 3. Dapper Animal plate in Jaguar, $14, from West Elm. 4. Kimmy Hogan “Still Life 1” artwork, 20.3cm x 25.4cm, $60 (unframed), from Life Interiors. 5. Mantebo art print, 23cm x 68cm, $39.99 (unframed), from Ikea. 6. John James Audubon “American Swan” art print, $15.40 (unframed), from All Posters. 7. Sophia Village salad plate, $12, from Pottery Barn. 8. The Adventures Of “Flora” art print, 29.7cm x 42cm, $79 (unframed), from Life Interiors. 9. Dinner plate with transfer, $89.95 for set of 4, from Zara Home.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 37

WE TRANSFORMED OUR COTTAGE IN JUST 12 WEEKS Lucy and Michael made their dream of home ownership a reality by turning their little Blue Mountains house into a holiday rental.

BEST THING WE EVER DID… was swap some curtains for blinds. By spending a few hundred dollars, we were able to change the look of the whole house. I wish I had… taken more “before” photos – they’re a good reminder of how far we’ve come.

38 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

RE A D ERS’ “ONE NIGHT LAST YEAR Michael and I started talking about how lovely it would be to have a holiday home. We rent in Sydney and, as we can’t afford to buy here, a holiday home sounded romantic and achievable. Then Michael found a listing online for a cute 1930s two-bedroom cottage in Blackheath in the Blue Mountains. Luckily, the showing was the next day, so we set out after breakfast for the drive, which is just under two hours. The showing was packed with people and as I walked around I could see why. We went out the back and couldn’t believe what we saw: a huge, 960 square metre landscaped garden which sloped down towards the national park and had views to the cliffs through the trees. It was beautiful. After being there for only 10 minutes, I knew it was perfect for us. I felt at home – and started to get anxious that if we didn’t put in an offer, we’d lose it. My husband was more logical! He wanted to take the time to work out our finances. In the end, we agreed that the only way we could afford to buy the house was to use it as a holiday home for some of the time and rent it out for the rest.

H OM ES

True getaway At the end of the gravel driveway is a fully-equipped artist’s studio, where guests can be arty – or just sit and relax.

TEXT LUCY E COUSINS PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREW FINLAYSON

MAKING CHANGES Researching other Airbnb homes in the area and asking family and friends what they liked – and what they didn’t like – in holiday rentals helped us work out our approach. We decided to make the house feel modern but with a nod to its heritage. The first thing we did was organise for the original floors to be sanded, and the carpet in the front bedroom to be replaced. These made a huge difference. We also changed most of the curtains to wooden venetian blinds, and updated most of the light fittings. The biggest change was to add a balcony along the back of the house. There was a side door down to the garden, and an asbestos-walled laundry under the kitchen window – but there was nothing connecting the house to the garden. So we asked a local builder to demolish the laundry and build a balcony with stairs to the backyard. It was an investment but the difference it makes is phenomenal. Fortunately that was our only major construction.

GUEST READY Handy items like hats, torches, umbrellas and a picnic rug await guests when they arrive, along with a vintage crate for shoes.

M EET LUCY

About me Hi, I’m Lucy, and I’m a writer. I live in Sydney with my husband, Michael, an engineer, and our bull terrier, Luca. This is The Artist’s Cottage, our holiday home in the Blue Mountains, which we also rent out on Airbnb: blackheathartistcottage.com.au. Top tip Don’t feel like you have to buy everything new or from stores. There are many other avenues for finding gems for your home.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 39

For all seasons The light and airy sunroom captures light and warmth in winter and oﬀers shade in the summer months.

OLD AND NEW For the bedrooms we bought replica vintage bed frames, new mattresses and linen, then added antique side tables and chests. I found two beautiful rugs for sale on a Facebook group and put those in the living room – they divide the space nicely into a dining area and living area. Due to its layout, we felt this room needed an attentiondrawing feature piece so, inspired by the emerald green colours of the 1930s, we bought a green velvet sofa on sale from Matt Blatt. It centres the room and I’m obsessed with it! I had a lot of fun collecting pieces for every room – I love to recycle and our neighbourhood is known for its street finds. The ottomans, a coffee table and the cane chairs were off the street and just needed a clean and some varnish. I also found bargains at warehouse and end-of-stock sales. Generally, I find the 40 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

pieces and show them to Michael. And about 99 per cent of the time he loves them. But if he doesn’t like something, I won’t buy it. He’s got to live with it, too! Michael is incredibly handy and has hung up all the paintings and blinds, sanded back furniture and benchtops, chopped the firewood and put up the lattice. He also designed the lighting in our backyard, so the stairs to our back deck, fruit trees and old gum trees are illuminated at sunset. And he installed the Nest Home system which, via a phone app, lets us turn on lights and heating before we or our guests arrive.

BOOKINGS OPEN First we invited friends to stay, as guinea pigs, and they gave us great feedback. Then we took a deep breath and listed it on Airbnb. After a week or so our first few guests booked in! It was a little scary wondering if they’d like it.

Turned out they did, phew! And now we’ve been coming up here for a year, we have friends nearby and feel right at home in Blackheath. Everyone is so friendly. We even eloped here a few months ago and were wed on the side of a cliff near our house with incredible views. We stay every few weeks, when we don’t have bookings, and spend our time either in front of the fire on the couch, or on the back deck, halfway down the garden. The view from there is incredibly beautiful, especially in the mornings and afternoons when the sun hits the cliffs in the valley. We feel really lucky that by renting out this little house when we’re not using it, we can afford to own it! The mountains do feel like home and sometime, way in the future, we may end up moving here. Then we might make more changes but for now, we are so happy with everything as it is.”

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

Modern take on a 1940s light, from Beacon Lighting.

ATTENTION SEEKERS The fire engine red fireplace is a striking focal point in the living area, along with the emerald green velvet sofa. Lucy’s little gallery above gives it great personality. Its cheery colour is echoed in the statement wall in the kitchen.

MIXING OLD AND NEW Lucy and Michael had a clear idea of the overall look: they wanted a “modern twist on 1930s mountain” style, and weren’t afraid to combine old and new. So they mixed antiques with modern pieces that had a 1930s feel. While the Matt Blatt green velvet couch is new, its colour and material hark back to the 1930s. They found replicas of early 1900s metal bed frames at Beds Online – and added new mattresses, luxury linen and plump pillows for maximum comfort. Then they mixed in antiques to complement the house. “Wood has such a warmth and history to it that we wanted to fill the house with wood, especially as it accentuates the timber floors,” says Lucy. “The only thing we bought that didn’t quite fit was a blue kitchen cupboard that was a bit too ‘country farmhouse’ for our mountain kitchen – but it works perfectly in the more eclectic artist’s studio.”

FABULOUS FINDS Lucy teamed her new sofa and rug with a mid-century coffee table she bought from a friend – and found the ottoman on the roadside!

Old made new Lucy’s $100 dining table was sanded, oiled and sealed by Michael, and teamed with vintage chairs from a friend.

New life The 100-yearold English washstand is a perfect piece for the hall.

HIGH

STATEMENT PIECE Harriett 3-seat velvet sofa in Bottle Green, $1299, from Lounge Lovers.

SHOP THE LOOK LOW

SIT OR SNOOZE Esben 3-seat velvet sofa bed in Dark Forest Green, $529.99, from Luxo Living.

42 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

Nifty wheels The turn-of-thecentury drinks trolley has sides which fold up to form a table.

Take two White subway tiles on the wall work in well with the original 1940s ﬂoor tiles.

RE A D ERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

H OM ES

Well lit A good bedside reading lamp is a useful inclusion in a holiday home.

MONEY SAVING TIPS

We waited for sales We bought the green sofa for a great discount from Matt Blatt, our blinds were on sale at Spotlight and the Ikea cushions were also reduced. We saved money online Michael bought outdoor lighting on eBay, saving us heaps, our sheets were from thehome.com.au, and I found great stuff on Facebook groups. We bought package deals We chose all our electrical and whitegoods at Appliances Online, and received a discount.

Bed with a view The rear bedroomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s double doors open onto the balcony and backyard. Cushions from Rapee and Kmart.

On show Lucy chose this seaside print to contrast with the forests outside.

Wonder wall This is a great way to add character and clever storage around a door.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 43

THE STUDIO

LUCY LOVES

DRINKS TROLLEYS Stylish and functional serving stations for drinks.

Art has always been important in Lucy’s family – her mother Kerry-Anne is an artist and art critic, her father Ian an amateur photographer in his spare time and, when young, she and her sister Sara spent hours in art galleries and museums. “One of the previous owners of this house was an artist and this was his studio,” Lucy says. “So it’s got a history of art and inspiration, plus the views are stunning – and I’ve just started drawing classes, so I wanted somewhere to do art.” Lucy and Michael created three areas – the artist’s spot with easel, stool, artist mood board and view of the mountains, the boho couch area with pillows, rugs and view through the door to the valley, and the bookshelf with art inspiration and a kettle. “We wanted it to be a space that could be used and made messy, so guests would feel comfortable and at home.”

5 6 1. Tristan bar cart in Antique Brass, $534, from Pottery Barn. 2. Drinks trolley, $49, from Target. 3. SLH House luxe drinks cart in Aged Bronze/Timber, $349, from Temple & Webster. 4. Paloma bar cart in Marble/Gold, $599, from Freedom. 5. PS 2017 side table in Beech/White, $139, from Ikea. 6. Mid-century bar cart in Acorn/Antique Brass, $599, from West Elm. 44 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

All in the family Behind Lucy is the original door from the demolished laundry, covered in life drawings by her mother.

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

MAKING MASTERPIECES The artist’s studio is thoughtfully set up for those who wish to create art, with all the tools of the trade at hand and original artworks up on the wall for inspiration. It’s also a peaceful and comfortable spot for just sitting back and enjoying the afternoon sun.

T H E

BU D G E T

BALCONY, BACK DECK & TERRACE STAIRS

$25000

GRAVEL PATH

$2000

FLOOR SANDING

$3000

KITCHEN APPLIANCES

$2500

BATHROOM FITTINGS

$130

INTERIOR FURNITURE

$5404

EXTERIOR FURNITURE

$1020

LIGHTING

$1245

ACCESSORIES (RUGS, ART BOOKS, NEST, PLANTS) CROCKERY, LINEN TOTAL

$1220 $560 $42079

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 45

Inspired by Lucy

HOLIDAY RENTAL RULES Learn how Lucy made her cute mountain cottage perfect for paying guests.

Added extra The cosy art studio makes this holiday rental unique.

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

There are thousands of properties on Airbnb and Stayz. The key to being successful is having and showing a point of difference. For us, it’s our artist’s studio – a beautiful place for guests to sketch, paint and enjoy. There aren’t many studios for rent in the area. Then there’s our huge garden, which backs onto the national park.

USE LOCAL TRADIES

REDUCE ONGOING COSTS

PUT SAFETY FIRST

OFFER MATES RATES

We used locals to sand our floors, landscape the garden and put a balcony on the back of the house. It helped us feel a part of the community, plus it was cheaper and gave us a list of people our guests could call, too.

A fire extinguisher might not look stylish but safety is so important in a rental. We have a first-aid kit in full view, a fire blanket on the wall and a fire extinguisher. And as we are in a fire-prone area, we have a fire evacuation plan and emergency numbers on our fridge. For the benefit of older guests, we added a handrail and footstool to the bathroom.

Living greenery adds a homely touch.

46 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

Put safety essentials in an obvious place.

The best form of marketing is word of mouth, so spread the news of your holiday house by offering friends and family mates rates. They’re more likely to recommend it, plus they can write reviews for you and add to your visitors’ book so it’s not blank!

TEXT LUCY E COUSINS PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREW FINLAYSON (LUCY’S HOME)

All of our light bulbs are energy efficient and we buy bulk toilet paper from Who Gives A Crap, which delivers for free, is environmentally friendly and supports charities. A system called Nest allows us to access our lights and heating remotely from our phones, so we can turn the lights and heating on just before our guests arrive and we don’t waste money in the long run.

RE A D ERS’

As new Don’t give up on old taps – they may just need a good clean.

T REN DS

BACK TO BASICS

4 LUCY’S SHOP & STYLE TIPS REMEMBER TO BARGAIN Whether shopping at an antiques store or online, don’t forget to ask for a discount, especially if buying in bulk. We negotiated a discount and free delivery for our appliances, all bought from Appliances Online. KNOW WHEN TO SPEND MONEY Certain household items should be quality buys. For us, that was bedding and our sofa, as we relax on them for long periods of time. FIND THE DISCOUNTS We bought through Facebook groups, Gumtree and eBay and tracked down great shopping sites as well. We paid $79.99 instead of $329 for queen size quality bed linen from The Home. PHONE A FRIEND A lot of our goodies (especially unique and decorative items) were sourced by asking if friends had anything they were considering throwing out or selling. We collected things we would never have found otherwise. CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS Plants make any house feel like a home, especially a holiday rental. If you’re not able to water them often choose plants that need minimal maintenance. And instead of buying flowers use what you have from the garden. Sprigs of herbs smell delicious.

COVER ALL BASES Equip your kitchen with enough matching crockery and utensils for preparing meals, but don’t fill every cupboard. Cater for all ages too, with board games, books and a few toys. THE BIG PICTURE Consider the overall feel of the rental and think of it as a “curated” space. You might not love every item, but they work together as a whole. Instagram: @blackheathartistcottage

7 8 9

1. Heritage Rhythm porcelain china 12-piece dinner set, $149.95, from Myer. 2. Tailor premium porcelain mug in Super White, $15 for set of 4, from Myer. 3. Behagfull 24-piece cutlery set, $49, from Ikea. 4. Salt & Pepper cuvee high ball tumbler, $44.95 for set of 6, red wine glass, $59.95 for set of 6, and old-fashioned tumbler, $44.95 for set of 6, all from Temple & Webster. 5. Rosenapel queen quilt cover set with four pillowcases in White, $39.99, from Ikea. 6. Maddox acrylic throw in Natural, $49.95, from Harvey Norman. 7. Sony ICF-C1 FM/AM clock radio in White, $48, from Harvey Norman. 8. 1000 thread count cotton sateen queen sheet set in White, $89, from Target. 9. Morgan & Finch Conran Bale towel set (two bath towels and two hand towels) in White, $89.95, from Bed Bath N’ Table. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 47

BEING AT HOME FEELS LIKE A HOLIDAY

It’s no surprise Brooke and her family love their bright, light Queenslander. The flow, space and colourful, stylish interior feel laid-back and lush all year round. Playful pink Brooke had these Ikea bar stools customised with a “cheap and cheerful” fabric she found online.

Ingolf bar stool with back rest, $75, from Ikea.

48 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

OUT THE FRONT

Fresh paint Dulux Limed White Half on the walls contrasts with Dulux Lexicon on the trim.

An old steel railing was replaced with a custom timber balustrade.

“JOHN AND I HAD BEEN LIVING in a worker’s cottage for a few years when we found this house. What I really liked when I first saw it was the size and layout – the space and flow of a Queenslander was really appealing. This is the third home we’ve owned and it has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a home theatre that now doubles as the kids’ playroom in the basement. A big part of the draw for us was the neighbourhood. It’s in a fantastic inner-city suburb and is leafy, green and quiet; it has bike paths and great cafes, and it’s only an eight-minute drive to the city, where we work. John and I grew up in regional Queensland but we love this area of the city and I can see us staying put here for a while.

TEXT SARAH PICKETTE PHOTOGRAPHY ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY

GREAT CONDITION The previous owners renovated not long before we bought the house, so everything was in good condition and we’ve not had to do any major structural renovations. We did get the exterior painted to freshen it up and we extended the back deck to create a more generous outdoor living area. I love how bright and fresh this space now feels; it’s made our home seem so much bigger. A few years ago we gave the interior a refresh. The kitchen layout is great, so we just updated the cabinet doors and replaced the benchtop and splashback. It was similar for the bathrooms – they just had a light cosmetic overhaul, with

new vanities and tapware. The kids’ bedrooms were redecorated and we invested in a few foundation pieces for the living room and chose a blue and white theme for it.

Street appeal is important to the couple, who plan to add lots more greenery. “We’d like to do planting for privacy and more shade,” Brooke says. “We’ll invest in some large, established trees to go over the fence line, so there’s plenty of green foliage to contrast with the white of the house.” They’ll also plant garden beds and a couple of fruit trees to create a verdant front yard.

CHANGING COLOURS Blue and white is still a favourite colour combination but after a few years of living with it I felt an urge to introduce more colour and pattern. I had a few ideas about how I wanted to achieve this and one day I was passing Rylo Interiors in East Brisbane and liked what I saw in the shopfront. It’s run by Lauren, an interior designer, and her builder husband Ryan. Workshopping my ideas with her helped me build the confidence to really embrace colour and pattern. It was love at first sight when Lauren showed me the beautiful wallpaper we now have in our living area. A statement wallpaper is the perfect way to add colour and life to

A pedestal table from Meizai creates a focal point in the foyer.

M EET BROOKE

About me Hi, I’m Brooke, and I work in human resources. I live in inner-city Brisbane with my husband John, a director of an accounting firm, and our two children, Blake, 7, and Duke, 4. Best tip Don’t be afraid to commit to statement colours or artworks. They can really make a house come alive.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 49

Accent colours A mix of cushions, including some custom-made, add colour and pattern to the neutral sofa. The rug is from Bayliss.

The woven storage tub is from Flamingo Road.

Bright delight A pendant light from Milly + Eugene hangs above the dining table and chairs, both from Rylo Interiors.

“I like clean lines and a crisp white base, so any colour accents pop.” any living area; it has huge impact and means there’s just no need for smaller decorative pieces and knick-knacks. I’ll admit I was a little nervous about putting up wallpaper with such a bold print, but then I figured that if we didn’t like it we could always remove it or paint over it. It’s good to keep that sort of thing in perspective.

FINISHING TOUCHES I like clean lines and a crisp white base, so any colour accents pop and it’s easy to change the look of a room by introducing a few new pieces. You could say our home is Hamptonsinspired, with added colour! When it comes to homewares, I know I can walk into White Havana in Chermside and Style My Home in Newstead and spot something I’ll love. Online, I like to browse the websites for SquareFox and Adairs. There are so many amazing stores out there, 50 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

including a couple I’ve spotted overseas, but I like to do my research and make sure anything I’m considering buying is a good fit for our home and lifestyle.

PERFECT FIT Our block of land is 658 square metres, which is quite big for this part of the city. We inherited the pool – and I think our kids are pretty happy we did since they’re in there almost every day! We have just enough yard space for it to provide everything we need. There’s grass for the kids to play on and room for a trampoline. It’s a wonderful home for a young family. Having the bedrooms and living zones on the same level works very well for us. There’s loads of space and plenty of storage. Plus everything is very easy to maintain. I love the open, airy feel of Queenslander-style homes and that a summery, ‘holiday at home’ feeling is not difficult to achieve.”

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

Make a statement “When I saw this wallpaper, I knew I had to have it!” Brooke says of the What a Gem Orchid on Ivory Manila Hemp wallpaper by Phillip Jeﬀries. The painting is an original by Melbourne artist Jessie Breakwell.

The armchair was upholstered in a fabric by Waverly.

GREAT IDEA Pop baskets under the coﬀee table for extra storage.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 51

Style a nook The blue and white feathers print is from Designer Boys.

MAKE ART WORK Brooke uses artworks to create scenes around the home. “Even the more ‘unloved’ corners of our house get the treatment,” she says, pointing to a spot by the TV (pictured right). “We’ve hung a Designer Boys print for its ability to enhance the space without distracting us from what we’re watching.”

SHOP IT Anna French Klein Trellis wallpaper from Natty & Polly.

52 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

MASTER BEDROOM (below) Brooke and John’s bedroom is calming with soft-coloured bed linen from I Love Linen and a bed and bedside tables from Pottery Barn. BLAKE’S ROOM (right) In this sweet bedroom, a dresser from Incy Interiors is topped with a mirror painted to match the pretty pink embroidered curtains in Schumacher fabric.

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

The bedhead is a custom digital print colour from Sparkk.

BROOKE LOVES

GRAPHIC WALLPAPER Take the edge off geometric and directional prints.

Blake’s room is painted in Dulux Relax.

1. Superfresco Easy wallpaper in Italie Blush, $59 for 10m roll, from Bunnings. 2. Vision Waverley Hampton wallpaper in WA7715, $149 for 10m roll, from Wallpaper Shop. 3. Superfresco Easy wallpaper in Oiti Taupe Bleu, $59 for 10m roll, from Bunnings. 4. Farrow & Ball Tessella wallpaper in Blue, $199 for 10m roll, from Natty & Polly Wallpaper. 5. Kelly’s Ikat wallpaper in White/Prussian Blue, $80 for 10m roll, from Graham & Brown. 6. Thibaut Geometric Resource Nevio wallpaper in T11055, 69cm x 8.22m, $261, from Wallpaper Shop.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 53

BEST THING WE EVER DID… was extend and renovate the rear deck. It suits our lifestyle perfectly and the two zones allow flexibility when entertaining. We wish we had… committed to finishing the landscaping, instead of putting it on our to-do list!

Space to live The deck is set up for outdoor living with shade and breeze controlled via louvres from Solomons Security & Blinds. Freedom outdoor sofa and Dash & Albert outdoor rug.

ENJOYING THE OUTDOORS With Brisbane’s sub-tropical climate, it’s not surprising the family spends a lot of time on the deck and in the backyard. “Our kids pretty much live in the pool. Rain, hail or shine, they’re in there – even in the middle of winter,” Brooke says. The couple says their decision to extend the deck when they first moved into the home has really paid off. “We wanted to make it feel more like an outdoor room and we wanted two ‘zones’, one for dining and the other for relaxing.” Now they eat dinner on the deck every night in summer, while the relaxed lounge area on the deck is perfect for the parents to rest while watching their young kids in the pool. “Plus, down the side of the house we have three vegie patches that do really well. We grow herbs and all sorts of vegetables – it’s John’s pride and joy,” she says.

54 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

RE A D ERS’

H OM ES

Merbau timber was used for the decking.

THE DECK (right) A trio of pendant lights from Rylo Interiors looks striking above the table setting. Entertaining is easy on the extended deck. “We get a lot of use out of our BeefEater barbeque,” Brooke says.

Dining table from Rylo Interiors and chairs from La Maison.

SHOP THE LOOK A CLASSIC Finntorp Djupik armchair with cushion, $149, from Ikea.

HANDWOVEN Otto small basket, $69.95, from Freedom.

LAY IT DOWN Un nitex Urban rug in Ivory, 155cm x 225cm, $811.20, from Choices Flooring.

Poolside patio “Our awning was custommade by Solomons Security & Blinds and it’s the second largest they’ve ever made!” Brooke says. Armchair from Cane-line Australia.

IN PARADISE Muse Akamai cu ushion, $34.95, frrom Pillow Talk.

On-trend stone The bathroom cabinetry from Vanity By Design is topped with Carrara marble.

LOUNGE ABOUT Torquay 3 seat outdoor sofa, $699, from Freedom.

SLEEK DESIGN Majorca outdoor coffee table in Black, $129, from Brosa.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 55

MODERN PASTELS

Pretty pinks, blues and greens are adding soft colour and a fresh edge to interiors.

1 56 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

DREAMY PASTELS ARE POPPING UP everywhere you look, branching out from children’s rooms to living areas, dining rooms, bathrooms and beyond. To use them stylishly is to avoid making your space too overwhelmingly sugary. So how do you do this? We asked our interior design and colour guru, James Treble, who says the best way to work pastels into your home is to team them with crisp white, which allows all the subtle tones to work comfortably together. “Another way is to use dark tones such as charcoal greys, deep forest greens or moody inky blues as the backdrop, and allow the softer tones to contrast against the darker ones,” he says. In the bedroom on the right you can see how mixing black and white with pastels creates a striking modern look. In her home, Brooke has added pretty pinks, greens and blues and mixed them with brights in the same colour family against white walls. Brooke says she’s drawn to pastels because they “add life to the home while still having a calming effect.”

4 3

PHOTOGRAPHY ELOUISE VAN RIET-GRAY (BROOKE’S HOME)

Inspired by Brooke

RE A D ERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

T REN DS

FRESH AND FUN The dining space (below left) is light and modern thanks to the use of bright white and a mixture of different pastels on the walls and chairs.

COLOUR BALANCE Grey balances out pastels perfectly. You can see it in the spaces pictured here. In the room above, the pale grey in the wallpaper is used as a neutral, along with white and timber. The grey adds character to the pinks, greens and touches of pale blue and prevents them from being saccharin. White walls with grey decals and a black framed bed (left) balance out the softer textured throws and cushions in pretty pinks and lilacs. Pastels are also picked up in the art frames and accessories. A large pink trunk is a standout feature in the otherwise neutral living room (top left), while the orange trim and metal hardware add detail to the swathe of pretty pink.

1. Finn chair in Cloud, $89, from Early Settler. 2. Croft 1 pendant light in Brushed Copper/Mint, $189, from Beacon Lighting. 3. Solange queen bedhead in Rose Tan, $479, from Brosa. 4. Maryd tray table in Green, $35, from Ikea. 5. Network Rugs Hive rug in Blue/Yellow, 115cm x 165cm, $164, from Temple & Webster. 6. SĂśderhamn armchair in Samsta Light Pink, $399, from Ikea. 7. Malmo coat rack in Mint, $91.80, from Schots Home Emporium. 8. Continental Designs entertainment unit in White and Mint, $269, from Temple & Webster. 9. Mayfield Lamps Oscar table lamp in Mint, $74.95, from Temple & Webster. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 57

Meet s some of the top beauty products from the last 10 years, as rated by Australian women. Discover more award-winning and D top-rating products, and read their reviews att beautyheaven.com.au.

PLUS: Join the community and try products for FREE!

MAKEOVERS (

AF TERS,

GREAT

IDEAS

)

CHERIE BARBER’S SUPER-EA S KITCHEN Y UPDATES

PHOTOGRAPHY CHERIE BARBER – RENOVATING FOR PROFIT

Fresh new look Follow Cherie’s step-by-step guide to painting your cupboards.

BEFORE

THIS MONTH HANDY TIPS TO ORGANISE EVERY ROOM – AND YOUR FA MILY!

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 59

TH E

LIV I N G

RO O M

M A KEOV ER

BACKYARD BLISS

A tired suburban pergola and deck are spruced up for wedding ceremonies.

Ready for the big day A clever upgrade of the pergola and pool fence has created a lovely space for weddings.

AS SEEN ON

TUNE IN

Catch The Living Room 7:30pm Friday on TEN.

Tenplay.com.au/thelivingroom

THE HOME OWNER Part-time civil marriage celebrant Karen, from Sydney’s western suburbs, wanted to offer her back garden as a venue for intimate ceremonies. Trouble was, both pergola and backyard were not looking lovely.

60 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

THE CHALLENGE With a pool, pergola and deck area, this suburban backyard was well suited to family life. Owner Karen, who officiates at up to 40 weddings a year, thought it also had potential as an economical location for small ceremonies. But she felt it was in desperate need of a renovation. “The deck needs to have a better connection to the lawn, where the wedding guests

would spill out, and I’d like a nice backdrop for photography after the ceremony – I can’t offer that at the moment,” Karen says. The area also needs to function as Karen’s outdoor entertaining space all year round, but she felt it was disjointed from the house. Major issues were the pergola’s orientation to the pool, and the pool fence dividing the yard.

B EFO RE

BEFORE

A F T ER

All dressed up Little lanterns, soft fabric swathes and leafy garlands add wow for weddings.

Time to revamp Dated and shabby, this area was in need of a fresh new look.

OUR DESIGN SOLUTION

Stage one of Barry’s plan involved opening up the whole backyard with a BA RRY new transparent pool D U B O I S fence. The DIY fence, of toughened glass panels, meets pool fence safety standards and, although it was installed between pool and pergola, does not create a visual barrier. In stage two of the refresh, the pergola’s direction was changed to help create a sense of entry to the deck area, where ceremonies would be held. The old corrugated roof and half the rafters were removed, then the rafters put back running towards the garden. For a beachy vibe, bamboo screening was fixed on top of the rafters, and a new polycarbonate roof installed above to protect the deck from all weathers. As the timber deck was in good condition, only a few planks needed to be replaced and a wide platform-type

THE VERDICT Karen loves what’s been created. “It is just fabulous! What a perfect setting for a wedding – I can’t wait to share this beautiful space with couples!”

Double duty The covered deck is also a great spot for entertaining, whatever the weather.

TEXT CATHERINE SANDERS

Blank canvas Karen can easily change accessories to suit each event.

step constructed. A timber screen was built along the back of the pergola for privacy, then the whole structure lightened with white paint. DIY roller cafe blinds in a weatherproof fabric were hung to block out the westerly sun in summer and provide shelter from wind and rain, making the area useable year-round. Pots of colourful plants and outdoor furniture complete the deck. To better link indoors and outdoors, a set of stairs from the back door was built and pavers dug into the lawn, creating an attractive and durable path from house to garden and pergola.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 61

JUST ADD PAINT Expert renovator Cherie Barber shows how to quickly give kitchen cupboards and wood floors a new life with paint.

TOP TIP Laminate paint is in a satin finish. If you prefer high-gloss doors, simply substitute laminate paint with tile paint, which has a high-gloss finish.

BEFORE AFTER HIDE TIMBER The brown timber would have looked great in its day, but it is a bit sauna-like! The power of paint is demonstrated here in this refreshed and renewed beauty.

62 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

B EFO RE

PROJECT

A F T ER

YOU WILL NEED

Paint your cupboards

• electric drill or screwdriver

• epoxy putty (only if you have

• masking tape

• foam mini roller

holes to be filled) • adhesive (only if required)

• plastic drop sheet • disposable gloves

and frame • 38mm paintbrush

• cleaning cloths

• dust respirator

• tile and laminate primer

• laminate paint (which you

• scourer (scratch resistant;

• 240-grit sandpaper (or electric

• paint stirring sticks

can tint to any paint colour) • 600-grit sandpaper

• tile and laminate cleaner or a mild detergent

only if required)

GET READY

they could react negatively with your laminate paint. Your cabinet doors need to be squeaky clean – scrub them with a cloth or, if necessary, a scratch-resistant scourer. No dirt, dust, kitchen grease, soap scum, mildew or anything else is to be left on your cupboards (otherwise it will show up under your laminate paint).

CLEAR EVERYTHING OUT

Move items such as your fridge and anything on your kitchen benchtops out of the way. Open a window or two for ventilation.

REMOVE HANDLES

Remove all your kitchen cupboard handles. The fastest way to do this is with an electric drill. Alternatively, use a manual screwdriver. It is often recommended that it’s best to take all your cupboard doors off your internal kitchen carcasses before painting them. This is not required. If you do so, you’ll probably need to bring a handyman or carpenter in at the end to put all your cabinet doors back on and align them correctly. This will just add to your cost. You can successfully laminate-paint your cupboard doors without ever having to remove them.

3 CLEAN LIKE CRAZY

Thoroughly clean and wipe dry all of your kitchen cupboards with tile and laminate cleaner. Alternatively, a mild detergent can be used. Avoid any other heavy chemical cleaning products, as

PHOTOGRAPHY CHERIE BARBER - RENOVATING FOR PROFIT

• 2 paint trays

hand sander)

FILL DENTS

If there are any chips or dents in any of your doors, use epoxy putty to fill these imperfections. This is a fast-drying product that you can sand shortly after application. If any of your laminate is coming off your old cabinet doors, simply anchor these parts down by using a strong adhesive, like

spray adhesive. If you have any badly damaged doors, look to get those replaced by a cabinet maker. Once fitted, you can then laminate-paint over to match all your other painted doors.

GET SET

5 SANDING

Once your kitchen cupboards are free of debris, it’s time to start sanding. It’s best to wear a dust respirator to avoid inhaling any fine particles. The fastest way to sand all your kitchen cupboard doors is with an electric hand sander. To sand an average kitchen by electric sander, it will take about one hour and they’re less than $50.

Simple does it Painting these old yet still functional cupboards in a fresh light grey and adding chrome handles gives them a modern look.

AFTER

PAINT CALCULATION To work out how much paint you’ll need, multiply the length of your cabinets by their height to give you square metreage. Then divide that amount by 12 to give you the required amount of paint in litres. If you’re painting the inside of your cabinets too, don’t forget to add that amount to your calculations. Most kitchens only consume 1 or 2 cans of primer and the same amount of laminate paint.

LENGTH OF CABINETS

x 12

HEIGHT OF CABINETS

BEFORE

TOTAL LITRES REQUIRED

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 63

TOP TIP

Make sure you keep your doors and drawers slightly ajar so the paint doesn’t dry them shut.

AFTER Daggy be gone A wood pattern laminate is now a clean white with shiny chrome knobs – money saved can go into other ﬁttings.

Alternatively, you can do it the harder way, by hand, with 240-grit sandpaper (likely three to four hours’ sanding time). Start sanding all cabinet doors, inside and out, in a circular motion. If your doors have a gloss finish, this needs to be completely removed by sanding. You only need to lightly sand/etch your doors (except where you have a heavy gloss surface) to enable the laminate paint to bond firmly to your cupboard doors. It is not a heavy sanding process. Once you’ve finished sanding all your cupboards, wipe them with a slightly damp cloth. Your cupboard doors must be squeaky clean and thoroughly dry.

6 MASKING

Mask off any surfaces that you don’t want to get laminate paint on. For example, your oven edges and any wall surfaces that your cupboards back onto. If you’re not painting the insides of your cabinet doors, mask around the edges on the back of doors so any paint applied to the front of the cupboards doesn’t leach over onto the back. Use a good-quality masking tape, because cheaper masking tapes (tan coloured) must be removed within 24 hours, otherwise adhesive residue starts 64 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

“The more you can use a roller, the better the finish.” bonding to surfaces and it’s difficult to get off. Put a plastic drop sheet (or newspaper) on the floor or any surfaces that you don’t want to get paint on.

AND GO

7 UNDERCOATING/PRIMING

Put on disposable gloves and open your can of tile and laminate primer. This is a primer/undercoat that helps your laminate paint bond properly to cabinet doors. Stir thoroughly with a paint stirring stick, mixing in a circular fashion from the bottom of the can upwards, to ensure the primer is mixed properly. Pour the primer into a paint tray. Do not pour too much into your tray, otherwise it will make it more difficult to roll excess paint off the roller. To apply undercoat, do one cabinet door at a time. Use a mini foam roller but also have a paintbrush at hand to cut in any edges or get into any tight spots that the roller can’t reach. It’s

best to roller all the edges of doors first (top, bottom, left, right), then roller the front and back of cupboard doors. Apply the primer in a zigzag pattern for good adhesion. Once the door is completely covered in paint, do not load the roller up with primer again. Just roll back over the door, in one direction, from top to bottom, for the best finish. Never press down too hard on the roller. Undercoat all cabinets, front and back, applying a thin (but not too thin) amount of primer. Do not put too much primer on cabinet doors, as this will cause the paint to appear slightly thickish and will result in a substandard finish. Wait four hours for the primer to completely dry. In the meantime, wash the roller in water and dry it with a cloth. Please note: you need to work quickly when working with tile and laminate primer, as it tends to dry quickly (about 30 to 60 minutes, especially on a hot, humid day). Try to minimise your paintbrush use wherever possible. The more you can use a roller, the better the finished result.

8 SANDING

Once dry, lightly sand all cabinets again with 240-grit sandpaper. Do

B EFO RE

A F T ER

BEFORE PI C KS

L AMINATE PAINT

CALMING BLUE White Knight laminate paint in Bobbin Head Blue, $55/1L.

CREAMY PICK White Knight laminate paint in Vintage Lace, $52.50/1L.

not sand too much, as you don’t want to take any of the primer off. This is a very quick process – it should take no more than five to 10 minutes to do your whole kitchen. Wipe over/dust off your cabinets again with a dry cloth to remove any loose particles.

LAMINATE PAINT

Open your can of laminate paint. Remember, you can tint laminate paint to any colour you like. Your local hardware store can do this for you. Stir thoroughly with a stirring stick, mixing in a circular fashion from the bottom of the can upwards, to ensure the paint is mixed properly. Pour into your paint tray, but not too much! To apply laminate paint, simply repeat the same process as applying laminate primer, doing one door at a time. Paint all the edges of your doors first then roller the front and back of your doors. Apply the paint in a zigzag pattern again. Once you have coated the door, do not load your roller up with paint again. Just roll back over your door, in one direction, from top to bottom, for the best finish. Never press down too hard on the roller. Use the roller as much as possible, not your paintbrush.

Paint all cabinets, front and back, applying a thin amount of paint (but not too thin). Wash the roller in water and dry with an old towel or cloth. Your cabinets will be touch dry in two hours but you shouldn’t apply your second coat of laminate paint until six hours later. Most people wait overnight to apply the second coat, and I would recommend doing this.

AND 10 SANDING SECOND COAT

Lightly sand cabinets using 600-grit (not 240-grit) sandpaper. Do not sand too much, as you don’t want to take any of the paint off. Wipe over/dust off cabinets again with a dry cloth to remove any loose particles. Apply a second coat of laminate paint. Allow to dry for at least eight hours, but be aware that laminate paint takes at least one week to achieve its maximum hardness. You need to treat your cabinets very delicately and not vigorously clean any of your surfaces during this curing time.

11 CLEAN UP

STYLISH GREY White Knight laminate paint in Hampton Inn, $52.50/1L.

SEA GREEN White Knight laminate paint in Scuba, $57.50/1L.

COOL BLACK White Knight laminate paint in Jolly Roger, $57.50/1L.

HAPPY YELLOW White Knight laminate paint in Lightning Bright, $52.50/1L.

Remove all masking tape. Put the cupboard handles back on. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 65

B EFO RE

A F T ER

PROJECT

Paint your floors

HANDLES & KNOBS Add new handles or knobs for a cost-effective way to dress up old kitchen doors and drawers.

2 TOP TIP

1 WE L VE THIS!

Don’t plan to stay in the house while the paint is drying and keep the windows open for good ventilation.

3 YOU WILL NEED

4 6 5 7 8 9 1. Eneryda handles, $12 for 2, from Ikea. 2. Birch solid brass knob, $29, from Lo & Co Interiors. 3. Card File Pull handle in Brass, 9cm, $34, from Lo & Co Interiors. 4. Prestige Antique handle in Pewter, 128mm, $7, from Bunnings. 5. C2 Sydney bow handle in Matt Black, 96mm, $15.10, from Handle House. 6. Prestige round flat knob in Brushed Copper, 32mm, $36, from Bunnings. 7. Prestige Shell pull knob in Matt Black, $7.68, from Bunnings. 8. Prestige square D handle in Brushed Copper, 192mm, $19.50, from Bunnings. 9. Prestige pine rounded handle in Natural, $4.50, from Bunnings.

66 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

• 150-grit sandpaper

• masking tape

• mineral spirits

• vacuum cleaner

• primer

• tack cloths or rags

• detergent

• paint roller

• polyurethane-based

• mop

• paintbrushes

THE GOOD NEWS IS you may have existing hardwood floors already in your home but they’re looking a little drab. There’s no need to rip them out – just stain or paint your floors instead. This can look really great in cottages or homes with dated pine flooring. 1 Scratch up the surface with 150-grit sandpaper, by hand or using a sander. This will help the paint adhere to the floor. Then vacuum and mop the floor with a detergent cleaner and get rid of any little specks that could get trapped under the paint. Let it dry out completely. 2 Use painter’s masking tape to seal off skirting boards, doors and doorframes so that paint from the roller or brush does not flick onto them. 3 Apply a primer suitable for your paint type using a roller and paintbrush for the corners of your room, then let it dry overnight. For a professional finish, wipe the floor over again with mineral spirits, using tack cloth or a rag.

porch & floor enamel

4 The floor is now ready for the first, thin coat of paint with a roller. For corners, it’s a good idea to cut in a short distance (about 3-5cm) from the skirting board or wall with a brush, as the roller won’t get into the space. Roller at least two more thin layers and allow at least 24 hours between coats. You’ll work faster if you have heat on to dry as you go, but please wear a mask and keep those windows open because of the paint fumes. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? About three days. COST Under $500 in materials. Most of this is DIY effort, labour wise, which costs you nothing but your time.

This is an edited extract from Renovating for Profit by Cherie Barber (Hardie Grant Books, $39.99), and available in stores nationally.

Join FOR YOUR FREE

Simply join our fantastic mum’s club and complete your proﬁle to receive your own FREE BOUNTY BOX! Personally curated, you’ll receive some of our favourite mum and bub products.

JOIN NOW

WWW.BOUNTYREWARDS.COM.AU/ BOUNTYBOX *Postage & Handling fees will apply. Items in box may vary. Offer not available to existing Bounty Rewards members.

FAREWELL FAMILY Steal the everyday habits of organised people and make 2018 your year of being sorted. Happy days!

Daily Roller, $125, from George & Willy.

HOUSE RULES Three golden rules from professional organiser Natalie Jane of Be Organised, beorganised.co.nz.

My number-one rule for a clutter-free home is the “one touch” rule. Every time you touch an item, put it back where it belongs, rather than moving it from one place to another. (If I take off my shoes, I put them away. When I get out of bed, I make it.) Every item in your home needs a functional place to live that makes sense to you and the people you live

68 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

with. Once you have established a place for your items, the “one touch” rule becomes much easier to implement. Tidy up every day. All homes require daily maintenance. You may choose to tidy up once a day or several times throughout the day, depending on your lifestyle. Choose a time that will suit you, get the family on board and make it fun.

B EFO RE

A F T ER

CHOOSE WELL

Before you buy something, think about whether you really need it, and if you have the space for it in your home. You could even throw something out (or donate or recycle) each time you buy something. That new bowl might seem less appealing when you have to get rid of an old favourite. When you do buy something, unpack it and put it away immediately. That way you won’t have unpacked bags, receipts and tags lying around. Say no to bags when you can, too, to save on clutter (and help the environment). Get in the habit of putting items you don’t use in a donation box. When it’s full, deliver it to the nearest op shop. Make sure items are in good condition, and that you wrap any breakables.

TEXT FIONA RALPH PHOTOGRAPHY KATHERINE JAMISON, CHRIS WARNES / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU; HELEN BANKERS, RACHEL DOBBS, EMMA MACDONALD, GETTY IMAGES

GET ORGANISED

with Kristina Karlsson, founder of Kikki.K, kikki-k.com. Ensure everyone in the family is accountable for their own spaces. Organising and keeping your personal space looking great is a rewarding task – if everyone does their bit, your home will be both beautiful and functional. The key to staying organised is not getting cluttered in the first place. Surround yourself with useful tools to make the task of keeping organised easier. It’s easy to let things slip, but once you turn chaos into order and feel the freedom it brings, you’ll be motivated to keep it that way. There is a place for everything – it may seem an impossible task, but having the right tools and information is the key to being organised.

TACKLE THAT JUNK

Keep handy those items you use daily. Items which are used less often can be stored away. If you know junk will accumulate – and it is bound to, even in the most organised home – designate a basket or drawer where clutter can live until its rightful owner claims it. Keep a basket by the door or in the garage for items related to errands, and grab things you need en route to the car. This includes gas bottles to refill, eco bags to use at the supermarket, mail to post and library books to return.

Clutter-free Tidy equals serenity, so ﬁnd a place for everything and let go of what you no longer need.

LIVING AND DINING ROOMS Get in the habit of clearing the table straight after meals – enlist the kids to help with this. If the table is also used for games, school work and computer work, keep baskets handy so you can clear the table easily before meals. Keep items like placemats and replacement candles handy in a sideboard or cupboard nearby. Use magazine racks for newspapers, books, brochures and magazines that pile up. Clear this out regularly – be ruthless! Encourage each person in your household to remove their belongings

from the living room at the end of each day, so you don’t have stray shoes, toys and dishes hanging around. Do a regular toy clean-up with your kids. When they are old enough, they can do this on their own. Try limiting the number of toys that are kept in the living room at any one time. Store extra toys in a cupboard and swap them over when your children need “new” toys to play with. Use cable ties or cable staples for cords, or invest in a cable holder, to avoid an unsightly tangle of cords in the living room. This tip would also be helpful in the office or bedroom. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 69

ENTRANCE WAY Natalie Jane of Be Organised shares her clutter-clearing tips.

ONE TOUCH RULE In a busy area like the entrance way, it is important to have homes for your items to stop them from being dumped. The “one touch” rule is important here, to help you get into the habit of putting things away. MAIL Designate a place for incoming mail to go – an in-tray, letterbox or mail organiser are good solutions. SHOES Baskets for each family member are a practical idea for busy families. Designated cubbies also work well. On the wall Kids gear can be organised well on hooks and shelves and in colour-coded baskets.

COATS Wall-mounted coat racks are user-friendly – use child-height coat pegs for kids. Get people to take responsibility for their own jackets. BAGS Store these on coat racks or in designated cubbies. Each member of the family can have their own coat rack with a cubby underneath for their shoes and bags. KEYS Use either wall hooks or a vessel of some sort. Get into the habit of putting your keys in this spot to prevent them from getting lost. Store your master key set and spare keys in a separate “safe” area in your home.

KITCHEN

Designate a place for each glass or item of crockery to live. Have a specific drawer for tea towels, a shelf for baking supplies and a place for each food type in the pantry. This can help to create order, and make it easy to return things. Try using trays, jars and containers to separate sauces from snacks and cleaning supplies from pots and pans. Keep larger items at the back of the fridge or pantry, and smaller items in front, so you can find things easily. Similarly, store plates, pots and the like by size. You may also want to store items you use most at eye level, and those used less often on higher or lower shelves. Put the dishwasher on before you go to bed, or before you leave for work, to help keep on top of dirty dishes. Unload it when you wake up or return from work. Write items on a shopping list when they are getting low, rather than waiting until they run out.

3 of the best PANTRY IDEAS

WE L VE THIS!

3 1. Mesh expandable step shelf, $28, from Howards Storage World. 2. Stoneware bottle in White, $12.99, from H&M. 3. Stephanie Alexander canvas potato sack, $26.95, from David Jones.

B EFO RE Give the fridge a quick clear-out before doing a supermarket shop, to ensure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t double up on products, and that nothing scary is lurking in the bottom of a drawer. On that note, keep leftovers in clear containers so they are not forgotten.

OUT OF SIGHT

No-one likes looking at piles of dirty plates and pots, least of all your guests. A separate, well-equipped butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pantry is one of the best answers to this problem, where you can stash dirty dishes and any unsightly cooking prep. Simply close the door!

A F T ER

The kitchen can be a good space to keep a wall planner or calendar, to help the family remember important dates. Using the fridge or a pinboard for appointments, invitations and tickets can help, too.

Benchtops can easily become cluttered. Encourage people to put items away after using them, and do a quick tidy once a week to keep on top of this.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 71

BEDROOM Labelled boxes, baskets or cubes work well to organise and hide kids’ belongings.

KIDS’ ROOMS

Fiona Wright of Mother & Baby magazine shares her top tips.

LITTLE HELPERS From a young age, even tiny tots can be encouraged to pack away toys if you turn it into a fun activity. Check out pack away songs on YouTube and get set to sing as you tidy with your toddler. For older kids, cleaning their room and helping out with jobs like folding the washing can be chores rewarded with pocket money or a rewards chart. STORAGE SOLUTIONS Keep their bedrooms – and your living areas – clear of clutter with stylish storage solutions like ottomans or wicker baskets, in which you can quickly pack items away at the end of the day. Cube shelves are handy for creating a designated spot for each child’s gear. They can place their bags and shoes in their cube after kindy or school, and quickly collect again in the morning when you’re all rushing to leave. WRITE IT DOWN Keep track of your littlies’ activities and social lives with a calendar that has a storage envelope at the bottom. When you make appointments or receive party invites, write the details on the calendar, then pop the letter in the envelope to be pulled out for actioning when the date rolls around. ROUTINE CHARTS Creating a chart which lists exactly what needs to be done can prevent nagging and gives kids a clear idea of what they need to do. For example,

a morning routine lists tasks such as eat breakfast, clean teeth, make bed; an evening chart might include tidy room, do homework, have bath. A daily structure like this will comfort your children, knowing the order of their day. GET APP SAVVY Yes, there are websites and apps just designed to get you organised and save you time. Evernote is touted as your “second brain” and lets you create notes, to-do lists and capture ideas. The Artkive app allows you to store, share and print your child’s artwork. Google Calendar is a sanity saver: mum and dad can sync calendars and keep track of movements and upcoming events.

3 of the best STORAGE CUBES

2 3 1. Slakting boxes in Orange, $13.99 for pack of 3, from Ikea. 2. Horsens 4-cube bookcase in Oak/White, $49, from Officeworks. 3. Buzz cube in Green, $19, from Fantastic Furniture.

with Natalie Jane, of Be Organised. Create zones for your items and store like with like. Use all the storage you have and get creative with it. Use the backs of doors and go vertical if you don’t have enough floor space. Make use of under-bed storage if necessary, for linen, off-season clothes or sentimental items. Put items that you use often in accessible spaces. Things you use less often can go up high. Don’t over-stuff your cupboards, drawers or wardrobes. Only keep items that you love and use. Fold clothes lengthways in drawers. This will keep them tidy, organised and easy to find. It also keeps them wrinkle free and is a fantastic space saver. Hang clothes in your wardrobe by sleeve length or colour. Create storage next to your bed for books so they don’t get dumped on the floor. A little basket is ideal. Use a laundry basket for dirty laundry to avoid a pile on the floor. Make your bed when you get up. It makes your bedroom look tidy (even when it’s not) and there is nothing like the feeling of hopping into a beautifully made bed at the end of a long day.

LAUNDRY

Try using separate, labelled baskets for coloureds, whites, darks and towels, so you can easily throw a wash on without having to sort through it all. Create designated spots (labelled if necessary) for items like cleaning cloths, pegs and laundry powder. Return items to their homes after use. Install hooks or shelves, or add a free-standing cupboard or mobile drawers. Keep a back-up supply of laundry detergent. Add it to your shopping list when it gets low. Start a box or drawer for lonely, lost socks so eventually they match up. Keep sheet sets together by wrapping them in bundles. Wrap a flat sheet around a fitted sheet and pillowcases. Make a regular time to do your washing – every Saturday, every morning after your shower or every second evening, depending on the size of your household and preference.

B EFO RE

A F T ER

3 of the best

TIM E-SAVIN G TECH

HOME OFFICE

with Kristina Karlsson of Kikki.K. Whether your desk fits into a tiny alcove, or is a huge table in an open space, how you set up your workspace has a direct effect on your productivity. Items used regularly should be within arm’s reach, and rarely used items stored out of the way. Remember to file intelligently. Paper-flow mayhem can throw a workspace into chaos. Remove anything unnecessary.

Sort the important things into logical categories, so that when you need them, you know where to look. Have a place for everything. I always use storage boxes to organise everything, from files to accessories. Take a few minutes at the end of each day to file all paperwork – using an in-tray is a simple way to create an action station. Storage boxes and binders also make great reference tools. Not only will you feel more organised, you’ll start the day in a refreshed environment, too.

NOTE TO SELF

1. Nest outdoor security camera in White, $318, from Officeworks. 2. Google Home device, $146, from Harvey Norman. 3. 4-rail charging dock in Bronze/Walnut, medium, $239, from Alldock.

3 6

WE L VE THIS! 1. Luns writing/magnetic board, $24.99, from Ikea. 2. Clipboard in Iridescent Pop, $3, from Kmart. 3. Justick electro adhesion mini whiteboard with clear overlay in White, 40cm x 60cm, $99, from Officeworks. 4. Cute B5 study planner, $16.95, from Kikki.K. 5. Timber memo/coat rack, $174.95, from French Knot. 6. Felt memo board, $8, from Kmart. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 73

I I

R B

TH O

IT’S A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE: HOW TO DO A DRAMA-FREE FESTIVE LUNCH

DECEMBER 2017

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY! WE SPEND THE HOLIDAYS WITH

RACHEL CASTLE, PONY RIDER AND DOWN TO THE WOODS

ONLY

$19.99

magshop.com.au/rlmagdigital

JOY TO THE WORLD 25 GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK

136 116 and quote X1801HMD

;LYTZ HUK *VUKP[PVUZ! :H]PUNZ IHZLK VU ZPUNSL PZZ\L KPNP[HS LKP[PVU WYPJL VM HUK ZPUNSL PZZ\L WYPU[ LKP[PVU WYPJL VM 6ɈLY H]HPSHISL MYVT \U[PS 0M `V\ KV UV[ ^HU[ `V\Y PUMVYTH[PVU WYV]PKLK [V HU` VYNHUPZH[PVU UV[ HZZVJPH[LK ^P[O [OPZ WYVTV[PVU WSLHZL PUKPJH[L [OPZ JSLHYS` ^OLU `V\ Z\IZJYPIL -VY [LYTZ HUK JVUKP[PVUZ ]PZP[ THNZOVW JVT H\ HUK MVY )H\LY 4LKPH 3[K»Z 7YP]HJ` 7VSPJ` ]PZP[ IH\LYTLKPH JVT H\ (WWSL [OL (WWSL SVNV HUK P7HK HYL [YHKLTHYRZ VM (WWSL 0UJ YLNPZ[LYLK PU [OL < : HUK V[OLY JV\U[YPLZ :\IZJYPW[PVU H\[VTH[PJHSS` YLUL^Z \USLZZ JHUJLSSLK

S T Y L E

DECORATE (

HOW

GET

THE

LOOK

)

R E A DE R S OUTDOOR’ SPACE S F

PHOTOGRAPHY HELEN BANKERS/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

AVE SPOTS TO REL A X

10 beaut ways! Style your home with colour – we show you how.

THIS MONTH: ST YLIST FIONA MICHELON CREATES T WO LOOKS, PLUS HOLIDAY PL ANT CARE

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 75

homes+ stylist Fiona Michelon shows how to create two on-trend looks for your home.

White sand hourglass, $39.95, from Zara Home. Fabric swatches and thread from Spotlight. Laminate samples from Bunnings.

76 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

FROM MOODBOARD TO MAKEOVER... I WANTED TO CREATE a look centred around a gorgeous velvety deep blue (pictured right). For this I envisioned an elegant mix of crisp white and bold blues, tied together with textures inspired by the ocean.

STYLING FIONA MICHELON PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTINA SOLJO STYLING ASSISTANTS REBECCA SICARI, SAVANA COHEN, MEGAN O’LOUGHLIN, GEORGIA NEWTON, MICHELE SATALIC

SHOP ’N‘ STYLE

ST YL E

BLUE AND WHITE LIVING ROOM

D ECO R ATE

Give your living area a refreshing new look inspired by the open seas.

MAKE IT

FIONA SAYS...

Embrace the uplifting energy of the ocean with deep-blue tones and pieces inspired by swirling seas. I started with a bold blue sofa, which is the hero of this sophisticated blue and white room. Lisette 3.5-seater sofa in Indigo Velvet, $1699, from Early Settler. Mod armchair, $995, from Matt Blatt. Liatorp sideboard in White, $399, from Ikea. Bagru coffee table in Burnt White Rustic, $899, from Oz Design Furniture. Marcel pendant light in Clear/Black, 400mm $229, and 250mm $129, from Beacon Lighting. ON SOFA Harley cushion in Navy, $8, from Kmart. Dusk square cushion, $49, from Urban Road. Mineral cushion in Steel, $49.95, from Rapee. Ellyson throw in Washed Indigo, $249.95, from Sheridan. ON ARMCHAIR Acacia cushion in Solid Navy, $49.95, from Rapee. ON SIDEBOARD Nesting seagrass basket, $9, from Kmart. Geometric design in relief candle holder, $19.95, from Zara Home. Bead bowl in White, 23cm, $39.95, from Salt & Pepper. Imperfect Home book by Mark and Sally Bailey, $49.99, from Sheridan. ON WALL Dulux Puhoi Half Wash&Wear Low Sheen paint, $63.90/4L, from Dulux. “Blue Sea” downloadable print, $7.70, from Coastal Style Prints, in Poster frame in White, 60cm x 90cm, $15, from Kmart. “Cut” print, 14.8cm x 21cm, $24, from Hello Polly, in Manhattan frame in White, 20cm x 25cm, $10, from Kmart. Lani Mini Porthole decorative tile in Grey, $69, from Ahoy Trader. ON FLOOR Virtuo Classic 55 Luxury vinyl floor planks in Deep Oak, $41 per sq m, from Gerflor. Slide-on mules in White, $17, from Kmart.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 77

I was inspired by this indigo velvet sofa and wanted to create a bold contrast against crisp whites in the walls, curtains and sideboard. Deep blue and white are such a match made in heaven! To avoid a heavily nautical look, I subtly introduced the water theme through accessories like this watercolour-style cushion.

LIVING ROOM STYLING TIPS

03 To help fill out the empty wall space, I hung two smaller pieces of artwork next to the large framed sea print. I kept the colourings in all three artworks similar but chose styles and shapes that were completely different â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this makes the look refreshing and less predictable.

78 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

While I kept to the blue and white palette, I prevented it from becoming boring by using blues of the same hue in varying shades, like this armchair and cushion. The same rule works for timber tones. This creates a look thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really cohesive but still interesting, because there is variation.

04 Dark floors are hugely popular at the moment and offer a beautifully elegant feel. They look especially striking when styled with furniture in deeper shades. Here, the deep oak vinyl flooring from Gerflor works to ground the whole space and makes the white walls pop with freshness.

ST YL E

D ECO R AT E

MAKE IT I styled the shelves of the sideboard with white accessories in a mix of heights and shapes. Placing some of them in a tray or on top of a stack of books makes the look feel more connected and less bitsy. On top of the sideboard I placed an artwork and textural white accessories for a lovely vignette (pictured below). The blue book ties in with these details and the rest of the room. TOP SHELF Candle in holder in Citrus and Violet, $4, from Kmart. MIDDLE SHELF Wooden tray in White, $24.99, from H&M Home. RAWW vase in White, small, $49.95, from Salt & Pepper. For similar succulent, Botanica D2 Jute cactus artiﬁcial plant, $2.99, from Spotlight. BOTTOM SHELF Striped-eﬀect candle, $59.95, from Zara Home. Muse Davinci hourglass, $20.95, from Pillow Talk. Terrazzo pyramid in White, $24.95, from Salt & Pepper.

Love framed print, $7, 33cm x 43cm, from Kmart.

TEXTURED VASES YOU WILL NEED ● glass

or ceramic

vases ● white dimensional

TOP TIPS Apply multiple light coats of spray-paint as this will give a nicer finish than a couple of heavy coats.

paint (from Spotlight) ● white

matt finish spray-paint

HERE’S HOW 1 Clean and dry the vases. 2 Apply small buds of paint onto the vases. Allow to dry overnight. 3 Place the vases in a cardboard box in a well ventilated area (outside is best) and apply a coat of spray-paint. Allow to dry. Continue spraying until the vases are covered, allowing to dry between coats.

For one coat of paint, tip the vase upside down to help coat the curved areas and underside of the textured bumps.

We love how the straight lines of dots on our curved vase look a little like a sea urchin! Try it yourself.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 79

FROM MOODBOARD TO MAKEOVER... I WAS INSPIRED by a mix of raw, earthy elements, soft sage green bed linen and lots of fresh greenery for a calm and relaxed feeling.

Maison Fringe pillowcase in Sage, $39.95, from Aura Home. Bell garland (section), $29.95, from Zara Home. Succulent, $4.95, from Bunnings. Awesome Aunty necklace, $173, from Palas Jewellery. Plant in box from Kmart. Terrazzo board in White, small, $8, from Kmart. Fabric swatches from Spotlight.

80 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

ST YL E

D ECO R ATE

SAGE GREEN BEDROOM Unwind with laid-back vibes thanks to gorgeous green and wood tones. MAKE IT

FIONA SAYS...

Sage green is a hugely popular colour at the moment and looks fantastic with lots of natural wood tones and raw, earthy textures – it’s perfect for creating a casual look.

Trilogy bench in Oak/Walnut, $680, from Clickon Furniture. Inartisan Rafi side table, $149.95, from Zanui. ON BED Maison Fringe queen quilt cover in Sage, $199, and pillowcases, $39.95 each, from Aura Home. For similar sheets, Home Republic Linen Vintage Washed queen fitted sheet, $179.99, and flat sheet, $199.99, from Adairs. Sanela cushion cover in Green, $9.99, from Ikea. Surrey cushion in Eucalyptus, $69.95, from Sheridan. ON BEDSIDE TABLE Stoic 1 Light table lamp in Marble/Clear, $179, from Beacon Lighting. Aromatherapy candle, $6, from Kmart. Baci ring, $108, and Palazzo ring, $84, from Palas Jewellery. ON BENCH Townsend throw in Eucalyptus, $149.95, and House of Plants book by Caro Langton and Rose Ray, $39.95, from Sheridan. Cactus-like resin box, $69.95, and magnifying glass in Black, $39.95, from Zara Home. ON WALL Superfresco Easy Paintable Weave wallpaper in White, $37.95 for 1.1m roll, from Bunnings. Bamboo expanding trellis, $29.50, from Bunnings. Paper Collective Floating Leaves 5 print, A3, $69, in Moebe frame in Natural, A3, $109, from Clickon Furniture. ON SHELF (from left) Hops hanging bush, $24.99, from Spotlight, in Egg ceramic pot in White, $10, from Kmart. Devil’s ivy plant, $19.99, from Bunnings, in ceramic marble-effect pot, $10, from Kmart. Maidenhair garland, $14.99, from Spotlight, in terrazzo cylinder pot in White, $5, from Kmart. Silver dollar hanging bush, $24.99, from Spotlight, in cork-trim pot in White, $7, from Kmart. Maidenhair garland, $14.99, from Spotlight, in Geometric pot in White, $7, from Kmart. Box and berry hanging bush, $24.99, from Spotlight, in footed pot in White, $3, from Kmart. ON TRELLIS Round frame sunglasses, $5, singlet, $7, and wire hanger in White, $2 for pack of 10, from Kmart. You Mean The World To Me bangle, $224, Capri tassel lariat, $60, Grateful Heart necklace, $174, and My Amazing Sister bracelet, $80, from Palas Jewellery. Fiddle Fig White 1 print, A5, $19.95, from Olive et Oriel. For similar succulent, Botanica D2 Jute Cactus artificial plant, $2.99, from Spotlight. ON FLOOR Karndean Art Select parquet vinyl flooring in Blond Oak, $84.35 per sq m, from Choices Flooring. For similar succulent, as above. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 81

02 No green thumb? Go for artificial plants.

MAKE IT

HANGING SHELF I started styling the room with linen bedding, which has a raw, tactile nature that gives a really luxurious feel and looks beautiful when styled in a really relaxed way.

Subtly textured wallpaper was my choice, rather than a plain white painted wall, as it gives a little more softness to the room and complements the similar texture of the bed linen.

04 BEDROOM STYLING TIPS

YOU WILL NEED ● dressed

pine plank (Bunnings will cut to your desired size)

● electric ●

drill

10mm drill bit

● rope ● scissors ● stud

finder

● pencil ● brass

ceiling hooks

HERE’S HOW

I love the diamond shapes of this trellis, while the bamboo adds a zen vibe. I simply propped it against the wall to hang jewellery and accessories.

Herringbone flooring adds a sense of luxury. I chose low-cost adhesive floor planks to create this look for less and it looks great, no rug needed!

1 Drill a hole in each corner of the pine, about 2cm from the edges. 2 Cut two lengths of rope to hang the shelf at desired height (ours are 2m long). 3 Feed one rope down through one hole in pine, then up through the other hole on the same side. Repeat for remaining rope and opposite end of pine. 4 Position the rope so that it is centered. Tie 3 string knots at the top of the rope and trim excess. 5 To find the studs in your ceiling, hover the stud finder over the ceiling. Be sure to avoid any electrical cables. 6 When you’ve found the studs, mark with a pencil where you will position the ceiling hooks. 7 Screw the hooks into the ceiling. 8 Hang the shelf and add plants.

TOP TIPS To make the bed feel more grand, I placed a wooden bench at the end of it. This creates a great spot to pop throws and books, or to sit on while dressing or putting on your shoes.

82 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

A solid wooden stool as a side table makes the room feel less cluttered but also introduces more earthy texture, which complements this sage green bed linen so perfectly.

Style with pots in varying sizes and shapes, and find plants that drape down, such as Devil’s ivy.

We chose a mix of real and artificial plants, to reduce the amount of weight on the shelf.

OUT NOW $24.99

AVAILABLE WHERE ALL GOOD BOOKS ARE SOLD AND AT AWWCOOKBOOKS.COM.AU

10 WAYS TO ADD COLOUR (without painting your walls)

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re keen to brighten up your interiors without lifting a brush, try these cheap and cheerful instant updates. No clean-up required!

1 FEATURE FURNITURE Add wow factor with a statement armchair or sofa in a saturated colour or pattern. Bright dining chairs can look amazing around the table, while coloured bedside tables make an easy and cheery bedroom update, too.

84 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

2 CUSHIONS FOR COLOUR We all know how cushions can make a big impact, so consider dressing your sofa with colourful throw cushions or new cushion covers. They will update the look of your sofa in an instant, and brighten up the entire space.

ST YL E

D ECO R ATE

UPDATE KITCHEN ACCESSORIES

Add a shot of colour to your kitchen with plates, bowls, glasses and utensils in a range of delicious hues. Storage canisters are an on-trend and practical kitchen addition, as is an exposed shelf to display colourful pieces.

EMBRACE NATURE

A vase full of beautiful colourful blooms or a house plant are nice additions to any room and a simple way to introduce colour into your home. Using pretty coloured pots for your indoor plants is an easy way to liven up a dull space.

IT DOWN 5TAKE TO THE FLOOR

An area rug is a great way to bring a pop of personality into your home. Incorporate a rug with a colourful pattern or detail to add interest underfoot. Not only can rugs bring rooms to life, they’re also great for defining different living spaces.

TEXT VANESSA NOUWENS PHOTOGRAPHY HELEN BANKERS & MAREE HOMER / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU; GETTY IMAGES

IMPACT 6CREATE WITH LIGHTING

Pendant lights or lamps in lovely hues are easy and effective ways to bring colour into a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, office or living space.

THE 7REMEMBER BATHROOM!

Many bathrooms are devoid of colour and tend to look a bit boring. Brightly coloured towels in fun designs are a fast and cost-effective way to inject personality and style.

COLOUR-SAVVY 8BUY STORAGE

Colourful baskets are a practical storage option for just about any room in the house. They’re also a fun and easy way to experiment with colour. Use them to store wrapping paper and craft items in the office, toys in kids’ rooms, magazines in family rooms, cleaning products in the laundry and everyday essentials in the bathroom.

CREATIVE WITH 9BEYOUR BEDLINEN

There are so many bold coloured and pretty patterned bedlinen options on offer that updating sheets, quilt covers and scatter cushions to transform bedrooms is too easy! Mix and match patterns and colours for impact.

10 ADD ART If you prefer a neutral backdrop, introduce colour into your interior with art. From a statement piece to a simple framed print or tea towel, art adds drama and a splash of colour to your walls. Neutral walls are ideal as they allow your art to take centrestage.

BEAUTIFUL ON THE OUTSIDE

Readers share where they love to eat, drink and relax on those sunny days and balmy nights.

Lisa, QLD

When Lisa and her husband, Nigel, bought this classic Queensland property, the house was in need of plenty of TLC. Along with renovating the interiors, the couple built decks at both the front and back as well as an art studio for Lisa. “The large rear outdoor deck is our best addition,” says Lisa. “We often sit out here with

a cuppa and watch our daughter play in her cubbyhouse.” Accessed from the house via tri-stack glass doors and leading on to the art studio, the deck has louvres for protection from the weather. “When it rains we close the louvres and drop the bistro blinds and it becomes another sitting area,” says Lisa.

OUTDOORS TO IN Lisa and Nigel built the custom bench seat, with storage underneath, and had it upholstered. Lisa says the bench is a “fabulous spot for an afternoon siesta”. 86 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

ST YL E

D ECO R ATE

Shutters allow light in but keep rain out.

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER, TOBY SCOTT, BRETT STEVENS, CHRIS WARNES & JOSETTE VAN ZUTPHEN / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

The rug is made from recycled plastic.

Di, NSW

The large covered deck at the back of Di and Steve’s house on Sydney’s northern beaches is furnished to be an extra living area with a stylish mix of vintage treasures, bargain buys and interesting finds. White plantation shutters provide protection from the elements when needed and, teamed with the vintage cane furniture, add a tropical feel to the space. “We bought the wicker furniture setting in the ’80s and it’s still going strong,” says Di. “We

used to have it inside but now it’s perfect for the covered deck.” The cane was given a new lease of life with white paint and Di found a basket coffee table at a garage sale to accompany it. She added more seating with a painted bench, brought in colour and cosiness with bright cushions and defined the sitting area with a large rug in watery greens and blues. Pots of bromeliads scattered around the deck bring some of the surrounding greenery “indoors”.

DOWN TIME The rear deck is the perfect place to while away the hours. For Di, it’s just the spot for reading, relaxing or spending time with friends and family over lunch.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 87

Leonie, QLD

ACCESSORIES PLUS Colourful patterned cushions and upholstery on the vintage cane chairs give a retro feel to the deck. A bright tablecloth adds character to the space, while a long wooden built-in shelf underneath the kitchen window provides extra storage.

88 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

The back deck of this worker’s cottage is a favourite space for Leonie. “It’s where I live most of the time,” she says. Surrounded by trees and furnished with a mix of vintage cane furniture, it’s a great entertaining space and, when the large window is opened, has direct access to the kitchen. A cluster of more cane chairs creates a seating/ relaxing area at the other side of the deck. “Sitting here with a cup of tea and a book... always puts me in the best mood,” Leonie says.

ST YL E

D ECO R AT E

The screen adds privacy and acts like a feature wall.

Covers give new life to old chairs.

Kylie, QLD Dappled shade from surrounding trees makes the perfect backdrop for a dining area in the backyard of Kylie and Nick’s bayside home. The granitetopped table and wrought-iron chairs are set away from the house on a paved area flanked by lawn and two beautiful lilly pilly trees. “The trees are gorgeous,” says Kylie. “They don’t shed many leaves and offer great shade from the afternoon sun.” The eating area sits half under a pergola, which gives the structure needed for the feature candelabra hung over the table. The garden sets the tone for the table settings – from the pretty floral tablecloth and the vases of lush leaves to the sprigs of rosemary on each plate. “We use this space for special occasions, like birthdays, Easter and Christmas,” says Kylie.

Stella, NSW

The verandah of Stella and Michael’s coastal home is a favourite spot for their family to relax and entertain. “It’s a shady area so is perfect for those hot days,” says Stella – and the space has the added bonus of views of nearby water. A sanded-back timber table and old deck chairs with grey and white striped covers help give the outdoor room a comfortable yet informal vibe, providing a great place for a casual lunch or dinner. A built-in screen adds an element of privacy while still allowing in light and views of the garden. The screen is softened by tall potted plants and a few hanging pots as well as the small vertical wall garden positioned behind the table. Fairy lights strung across the ceiling add sparkle and soft light once the sun goes down. “We often have dinner out here with friends,” says Stella, “and there’s space for the kids to play here, too.” HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 89

FORGET ME, NOT!

Have peace of mind when you go on holidays that your family of house plants will be happy and healthy on your return. It’s as easy as this...

LIGHTEN THE LOAD Before leaving, prune off any dead, dying or unsightly foliage and also remove any flowers or buds, which usually require more frequent watering to maintain their condition.

3 WATER WELL

If you’ll be away for a week or less, giving your plants a good soil-soak should be sufficient. While you should not regularly overwater plants, this is an exception to the rule. Let any excess water drain so your potted plant isn’t sitting in a saucer of water, which can attract pests or lead to root rot.

A LIVING ENVIRONMENT 4 CREATE

Water your plant thoroughly, then cover it with a clear plastic bag to just below the lip of the planter. This will create a makeshift greenhouse and keep the moisture inside. Make sure to cut a couple of holes in the plastic to allow for ample air circulation – plants need to breathe, too! Use chopsticks or kebab skewers to hold the bag up and away from the foliage.

DON’T FEED THEM

If you occasionally use fertiliser on your indoor plants, hold off in the weeks prior to your departure and wait until you return. It increases the rate of plant growth, but you’ll want your plants to grow as slowly as possible while you’re gone as this helps them conserve energy and water.

90 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

ST YL E

D ECO R AT E

REDUCE LIGHT

Move plants away from windows so they won’t photosynthesise as quickly and will require less moisture. We’re not suggesting you move them to a dark corner, but just shifting them a few metres back from a window can significantly reduce their light intake. When you get home, return them to their usual spot.

REDUCE WATER REQUIREMENTS

Re-pot a plant and mix water crystals into the soil. Soak the water crystals in water to expand them before adding them to the soil, otherwise they may push the soil up over the rim of the planter. Water crystals will help the soil stay moist for up to twice as long. They’re available from any major hardware store or garden centre.

7 PHONE A FRIEND TEXT RYAN MCQUERRY PHOTOGRAPHY LAUREN BAMFORD, MARTINA GEMMOLA, MAREE HOMER & DEREK SWALWELL / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU; GETTY IMAGES

If you’re going to be away for an extended period of time and have a friend who’s willing to water your house plants for you, take up the offer. Leave your friend with clear plant care instructions, or walk them through your watering schedule a week or two beforehand.

8 HELP WITH HUMIDITY

Place humidity-loving plants like ferns and air plants in a bathroom (provided there is a window that receives some natural light) or another small room and group them together. The smaller the room, the easier it is for your plants to maintain humidity and moisture. A bath or shower with the curtain or door closed is perfect.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 91

+++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++ +++

ADVERTORIAL

NEW THINGS

Enhance the look and feel of your home with these beautiful new products 1

1 CHOICES FLOORING MOOD Collection has the latest colours, designs and textures to suit all your window furnishing needs. View their range at choicesflooring.com.au 2 SPOTLIGHT Cricut Air 2.0 Machine. Cuts a wide range of materials, flexibility to upload your own designs, 50 ready to make projects and wireless convenience. RRP $449.00 spotlightstores.com. 3 COLORBOND Discover the subtle art of standing out with new COLORBOND® steel Matt. Understated yet contemporary, this roof and wall material is unequalled in its ability to draw attention. For more information, visit COLORBOND. COM or call 1800 702 764 4 OMO OMO Laundry capsules are the no mess, no fuss way to tackle tough stains. Laundry day has never been such a breeze, with one capsule per load delivering Amazing Stain Removal 1st Time. RRP: $12.49 for 20s, $18.99 for 32s. 5 KITCHEN AID Culinary Centre. With KitchenAid Stand Mixers, the possibilities are endless. Over 15 attachments to choose from, giving you the power to make everything from fresh pasta to burgers, veggie noodles to ice cream and more. kitchenaid.com.au/products/stand-mixer-attachments 6 FREEDOM No matter what the occasion, set the scene for entertaining success with freedom’s fresh offering of dining furniture and dinnerware. From handcrafted ceramics and copper cutlery, to statement tables in stone or blackbutt timber — there’s something to satisfy every taste. freedom.com.au. 7 KIDS WITH CANCER Charlie Chef helps kids with cancer. Buy a Kids’ Cancer Project bear for yourself or brighten the day of a sick child by donating it to a hospital. Visit thekidscancerproject.org.au/ bears or phone 1800 651 158. $54.95 incl GST, postage and handling. 8 GOOGLE Google Home Mini is a small and mighty device for hands-free help in every room, packed with the power of the Google Assistant. Google Home Mini: RRP $79. Available in three colours – Chalk, Charcoal and Coral – from JB Hi-Fi, Telstra, Harvey Norman, Officeworks, The Good Guys, David Jones and Google Store. 9 IKEA The new FADO table lamp creates a soft, cosy mood for your room. Available in grey and yellow, 24 cm high, $19,99. 10 HARDIE Breathe new life into an old pool deck or outdoor entertaining area with HardieDeck™. Stain the boards to look just like timber, clear seal them for a modern, industrial look or paint them any colour. Best of all, HardieDeck is extremely durable and virtually maintenance-free. For more information, visit www.hardiedeck.com.au. 11 IKEA Add a touch of the tropics to your home with the new GILLHOV cushion cover. 40x65 cm, $24.99, from IKEA. 12 HARVENY NORMAN The new Kenwood ‘Chef Sense XL’ has been re-engineered to provide more capacity and more options, with dedicated bowl tools to help you bake all your favourites, 20 optional attachments and a colossal 6.7L stainless steel mixing bowl with graduations for easy measuring. Baking at home has never been this fun.RRP $699, www.harveynorman.com.au/ kenwood-chef-sense-xl-mixer-blue.html

M Y

BACK YARD OUTDOOR

INSPIR ATION

)

TA K E I OUTSIDT ALFRESC E! KITCHENO IDEAS

PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELITA BONETTI/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

(

THIS MONTH GROWING AUSTR ALIAN NATIVES, CUTE GARDEN NOOKS PLUS MORE

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 93

MADE IN AUSTRALIA

Big, bold and gorgeous, our native flowers are amazing. Our garden guru Meredith Kirton reveals how to grow your own at home. Meredith Kirton is a horticulturist, landscape designer and author of several books on gardening.

WITH THEIR STUNNING BLOOMS and textured leaves, Australian natives are a knockout in both the garden and in a vase. The most commonly loved cut native flowers include waratahs, banksias and gum blossoms, kangaroo paws and Christmas bush. Whatever your soil or climate, it’s possible to find the right selection for your place. Many natives don’t like being fed phosphorous, so use a native specific fertiliser each spring. Natives also like being pruned regularly, so cut them back after flowering.

WARATAHS Waratahs are the floral emblem of NSW and possibly one of the most striking flowers in the world. Their blooms are the colour of blood, though some have been bred in pink, orange, bicolour and white shades. The flowers last for many weeks both in a vase and blooming in the garden. Grow them in a raised mound or pot as they really need great drainage to thrive. They can be in a semi shaded or full sun position.

GUM BLOSSOMS The Western Australian Red Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia) is now grafted onto a range of hardy rootstocks, making it perfect for growing right across Australia. There are white, pink, orange and red hybrids, and they are all breathtaking. They’re also brilliant for small gardens as they only grow to around 5m tall, though this varies from cultivar to cultivar. The flowers are followed by large gumnuts too, making them perfect for cutting something of interest for about six months of the year. The Silver Princess Gum (Eucalyptus caesia) is only suitable for very well drained positions without humid summers, but if you have the right spot this is perhaps one of the most stunning flowers to grow. Its pinkish red blooms, up to 4cm each, show up beautifully against the soft grey leaves. It has a gently weeping habit too, that can actually be manipulated to grow on an arbour so that the blossoms hang down like garlands.

NSW CHRISTMAS BUSH

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER & WILL HORNER / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU; GETTY IMAGES

GREVILLEAS Also known as spider flowers, this group has extraordinary diversity, with plants ranging from small ground covers to tall trees. If you’re in a frost-free position, tropical hybrids are probably best, especially for cut flowers. They include great shrubs like Grevillea ‘Robyn Gordon’ and taller screens like ‘Misty Pink’, ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Honey Gem’ – and they seem to flower year round. In colder areas, stick to the hardy, small-flowered types like Grevillea ‘Gold Fever’ and ‘New Blood’.

BACK YA RD

This is a small shrub or small tree depending on the variety, which can make great screening plants. The “flowers” are the showy bracts that appear throughout summer after the small white flowers in spring. They grow best in moist or regularly watered, organically enriched soil, in full sun or semi shade. Pick lots of flowers, as more pruning makes them thicker and bushier, which means more flowers next year!

KANGAROO PAWS These grassy reed-like clumps range in size from around 30cm up to 1m, and their blooms sit up off stems that vary in length and colour depending on the variety… some red, others yellow, orange and pink. There are even black and near-white types around. They all like good drainage so either mound the soil or grow in large pots or bowls. Remove old flowers once they have faded.

HAKEA Hakea are closely related to grevilleas and, similarly, are a diverse group of plants. Many make great screens and can even be hedged. One stunning flowered Hakea to look out for is Hakea laurina, or the Pin-cushion Hakea. Native to Western Australia, it does need good drainage but, once established, is very hardy. And it’s a wonder to look at in the garden when in flower each spring.

BANKSIAS These candle-like blooms – named after Sir Joseph Banks – have species that are native to both the east coast and the west coast of Australia. Their stunning flowers range from red and orange shades through to blue and green, depending on the species. Some are trees and others ground covers. The top pick for areas in the west, South Australia and Melbourne, where summers aren’t humid, is probably Scarlet Banksia (Banksia coccinea). This variety has incredible flowers and will also make a great screen up to around fence height. If you are from Sydney or further north up the east coast, the Hairpin Banksia (Banksia ericifolia) is beautiful and hardy. There is also a ground-covering cultivar called ‘Birthday Candles’, which only grows about 30cm tall but does spread to about a metre across, creating a stunning mound. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 95

The Victorian-style fountain creates a relaxing soundtrack in the front yard.

Essential link The rear of the house was disconnected from the garden.

Tall Photinia hedges provide privacy and a touch of colour.

CO U NT RY

FIND A NOOK In her Blue Mountains garden, Lucy took care to create spaces in which she – and guests – could relax.

”MY HUSBAND MICHAEL AND I love being outdoors and when we were considering buying this house, the beautiful gardens were the deciding factor for us. The block of land slopes down towards the national park and the cliffs, so to make the area more user-friendly, the previous owners had put in a series of tiers and paths. They had done a wonderful job, but we were keen to add our own touches. The first change we made was to build a back

The front garden of Lucy’s home is bordered by tall rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas, daphnes, camellias and almost 30 Japanese maples. The back garden has a series of terraces – kitchen plantings of citrus and herbs below the back deck, then a paved terrace ringed by lavender bushes which overlooks a terrace of six olive trees. A lower terrace features banksias and waratahs, and a large tree fern gully leads down into a native garden that ends in tall stands of mountain blue gums and valley views.

96 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

PL A N T

balcony which spans the width of the house. It’s created a flow from house to garden and become a year-round spot to lunch! Then we put in stairs between the garden tiers, as there wasn’t really an easy way to walk through the garden. Lastly, we had a lower back deck built which overlooks the valley, and which is where we spend mornings and afternoons. This backyard is our happy place – we never tire of the views, the birds and the beautiful sunsets.”

PA L E T T E Japanese maple Azalea

Rhododendron

TEXT LUCY E COUSINS & IAN COUSINS PHOTOGRAPHY IAN COUSINS, ANDREW FINLAYSON, GETTY IMAGES

BEFORE

ESC A PE

BACK YA RD

Happy days Lucy loves her sunny spot at the front of the cottage.

SWEET SPOTS Being able to enjoy different areas of the garden was really important to Lucy and Michael. “Our property is 960 square metres, so we wanted to create a range of areas where we and our paying guests could sit and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine,” says Lucy. There’s a little spot in the sun near the front door, a set of white wrought iron chairs and table on the back terrace surrounded by lavender and several chairs hidden round the garden. “We can breakfast on the balcony and, of course, we have our back deck.” So many choices!

“This backyard is our happy place – we never tire of the birds or the views.” MAINTENANCE PLAN

A DECK OUT THE BACK Building a simple timber platform under an old tree has created a special place for enjoying the great Australian bush. Halfway down the back of Michael and Lucy’s yard was a clearing underneath an ancient pine tree. It was covered in moss, and, being soft underfoot, was not really useable after a rain or heavy mist. ”We loved the view from there but felt that it needed to be more formal for our Airbnb

guests to use,” says Lucy. “Our builder had already started on the balcony so we asked him to put a simple wooden deck here. And then the whole area took on a new life.” With the addition of outdoor furniture, the deck is now their favourite spot to sit and enjoy the local birds.

If it’s been a dry year, Lucy and Michael need to ensure they’ve been watering enough, especially their ferns. They regularly trim overgrowing plants from the pathway and trails that run around the garden. In early winter, most of the summer growth on plants such as hydrangeas need trimming, and the fruit trees get an annual prune. The spring-flowering perennials in the top terrace garden need to be clipped back in winter. And as in any garden with a range of deciduous trees, Lucy and Michael spend a lot of time raking leaves in autumn and winter. HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 97

HOW TO SET UP AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN Equip an area for alfresco cooking and dining year round.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS are definitely on the hot list for gardens right now. Whether you’re a pizza oven aficionado, barbeque nut or simply don’t have a big enough cooking space inside your house, most of us would agree that cooking outside is much more pleasant than being stuck inside four walls with food smells wafting around. So why not make the process more efficient and enjoyable with the right equipment? Maybe it’s that caveman instinct coming to the fore, but men seem to particularly enjoy demonstrating their culinary skills outdoors, even more so when there’s a flash barbeque, oven, fridge and bench to work with.

WHAT’S IT FOR? Before investing in appliances or fixtures, first clarify your overall aim. Is it simply to cook outside without continual trips inside for drinks, cutlery and plates? Are you a passionate foodie and want to produce gourmet dishes while you enjoy the garden? Will you be cooking mainly for the family, small groups or large gatherings? This will not only help determine the size of your barbeque or outdoor oven, but also the degree of prepping space, storage and seating you require. Do you need an outdoor fridge for beer and wine? Even if you’re mainly catering to kids or teens, cold drinks are always in demand.

ALL-WEATHER COOKING To get the maximum use out of your outdoor kitchen, try to make it useable all year round. This means creating shelter from wind, sun and rain with screens and overhead canopies, especially for the cook (avoid combustible materials over the barbeque or outdoor oven, though!). Having a barbeque on castor wheels so it can be moved to a more sheltered spot in winter is also a good idea. Patio heaters or an outdoor fireplace will help to extend your use of the space throughout the cooler months of the year.

TIP

Using a modular kitchen system means you can start with the basics and add on later. Kaboodle flatpack kitchens are DIY and can be used outdoors, if installed in an undercover area.

Use a butcher’s block for food preparation and serving.

BACK YA RD

MASTERCHEF

TEXT CAROL BUCKNELL PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELITA BONETTI, MAREE HOMER & AMANDA MCLAUCHLAN / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU; GETTY IMAGES

What do you like to cook? One advantage of having an outdoor kitchen is that you can supplement the existing cooking appliances you have inside. Barbeques are the obvious choice, but you can also opt for outdoor ovens for pizza, bread, meat – even cakes – as well as rotisseries, smokers, wok burners and teppanyaki plates.

LOCATION, LOCATION Deciding where to put the outdoor kitchen is obvious if you have an existing outdoor entertaining area. If not, then easy access to it from your indoor kitchen is key. Not only will this minimise running in and out between the two, it will also cost less to connect to existing utilities such as power, gas and water. However, this may not be possible with steep sites or where the view, sun or amenities (such as a pool) are not close to the house. In this case, rather than it being used as a supplementary cooking space, the outdoor kitchen will need to be equipped as a stand-alone entity with plenty of storage and prepping space.

Adjoining the kitchens will create a seamless flow.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 99

“Generally the same principles apply for kitchens outdoors as they do indoors.”

TOP TIP

BLURRED LINES If indoor and outdoor kitchens are going to be close to each other, think about a design that allows the two to merge seamlessly to create one large, fabulous entertaining area when you open the doors – a great option if your inside kitchen is quite small. For a really stunning effect, try to use materials and detailing that complement or repeat those inside the house: benchtops, door hardware and cabinetry, for instance.

100 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

Easy access to the outdoor kitchen from the house is ideal, as it minimises trips to and fro and costs less to connect to utilities. If it’s further away, it will need plenty of storage and prepping space.

TOUGH AND LONG-LASTING

DRAW UP A PLAN Once you’ve got the basic structure and size of your outdoor kitchen mapped out, you can then start looking at its functional layout. Generally the same principles apply for kitchens outdoors as they do for indoors, with the size, position and proximity of cold areas (refrigeration), hot areas (barbeques, ovens and cooktops), wet areas (sinks) and dry areas (prep benches and storage) all designed for maximum efficiency. One simple approach is to divide the outdoor kitchen into three main zones: preparation, cooking and serving. But if you’re still unsure, talk to a kitchen designer. The relationship between your indoor and outdoor kitchens should also be considered in the design. Will you use them together or separately when entertaining or cooking? Will the foot traffic flow between them work efficiently?

SMOKING HOT BUYS

BACK YA RD

LIGHT UP

Good light is essential when cooking outside. Go for some form of directional task lighting over the cooking and prep areas, but make sure it won’t shine too brightly onto the outdoor dining area.

Durability is essential for anything used outdoors, so it’s an important consideration in choosing the fittings and materials for your kitchen. Even stainless-steel barbeques will eventually corrode in coastal locations, but using protective covers will increase their longevity. Keep the maintenance workload down by choosing hard-wearing materials in your outdoor kitchen, and remember that cabinetry and benches will need to be weather-resistant unless they are in a protected area. Choose grease-resistant materials for benches, and coat decking, concrete, stone or paving stones with sealant to avoid food stains. Slippery flooring materials such as tiles are not ideal in outdoor cooking areas. And in locations where the weather gets very cold, avoid tiled splashbacks or benches, as these can crack in heavy frosts.

1. Gasmate pizza oven in Stainless Steel, $699, from Harvey Norman. 2. Gasmate gas smoker with glass window, $299, from Bunnings. 3. ProQ Frontier Elite 3-1 BBQ smoker, $479, from Barbeques Galore. 4. Jumbuck outdoor charcoal Pinsa pizza oven, $298, from Bunnings. 5. Deluxe char-griller, $199, from Bunnings. 6. Jumbuck offset smoker barbeque with sidebox, $178, from Bunnings. 7. Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Fusion electric ignition charcoal barbeque with pedestal, $998, from Appliances Online.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 101

AUSTRALIA DAY

BRING A PLATE

Get together with friends and have lunch with tasty portable meals.

MINS

ASPARAGUS AND TOMATO FRITTATA SERVES 8 PREP 20 MINS COOK 20 MINS ✚ 8 eggs ✚ 1⁄4 cup milk ✚ 1⁄3 cup coarsely grated cheddar cheese ✚ 1⁄4 cup small fresh basil leaves ✚ 100g firm fresh ricotta cheese ✚ 170g asparagus, trimmed ✚ 200g mini roma tomatoes, halved

102 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

1 Preheat oven to 220°C/200°C fan. 2 Whisk the eggs, milk and cheese in a large jug. Season. 3 Heat an oiled 17cm (base measurement) ovenproof frying pan over medium heat. Add egg mixture to pan and cook for 3 mins, scraping edges of egg into centre of pan. Top

with the basil, ricotta, asparagus and tomato. Cook frittata over medium heat for 2 mins or until base and edges are almost set. Transfer pan to oven and bake, uncovered, for 15 mins or until set and browned lightly. Stand 5 mins. 4 Slide onto plate. Cut into 8 pieces.

E ASY

FO O D

FALAFEL MAKES 16 PREP 25 MINS (+ OVERNIGHT SOAKING & 1 HOUR CHILLING) COOK 15 MINS

PHOTOGRAPHY ROB SHAW, BRETT STEVENS & JOHN PAUL URIZAR / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU; BAUER BOOKS

✚ 1 cup dried chickpeas ✚ 4 spring onions, chopped ✚ 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley ✚ ¼ cup finely chopped fresh coriander ✚ 2 garlic cloves ✚ 1 tsp sea salt ✚ ½ tsp ground chillies ✚ 1 tsp ground cumin ✚ 1 tsp baking powder

✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

¼ cup plain flour 2 tbsp sesame seeds olive oil, to deep-fry pita bread, lettuce and chopped tomato, to serve TAHINI YOGHURT ✚ 1 cup Greek-style yoghurt ✚ 2 tbsp tahini ✚ ½ garlic clove, crushed ✚ 2 tbsp lemon juice

1 Place the chickpeas in a medium bowl, cover with cold water and soak overnight. 2 Drain the chickpeas well and place in a food processor with the spring onion, parsley, coriander, garlic, salt, chillies and cumin. Process until a coarse paste, then transfer to a bowl. Add the baking powder and flour and stir to combine. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. 3 Place the sesame seeds in a shallow bowl. Roll tablespoons of the mixture into ovals and lightly roll in the sesame seeds. 4 Heat 8cm of oil in a deep saucepan or wok. When the surface is beginning to shimmer, fry a few falafel at a time for 3 mins or until golden brown. Remove falafel with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel. 5 For the tahini yoghurt, combine all the ingredients in a small bowl. 6 Fill the pita bread with lettuce, tahini yoghurt and tomato. Top with a few of the falafel. Note: Cooked falafels are suitable to freeze. Not suitable to microwave.

MINS

CRUNCHY COLESLAW SERVES 8 PREP 20 MINS ✚ 1⁄2 red cabbage, core removed, finely shredded ✚ 2 carrots, coarsely grated ✚ 1 green capsicum, seeded, finely chopped ✚ 1 red capsicum, seeded, finely chopped ✚ 1 red onion, finely chopped DRESSING ✚ 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise ✚ 1⁄4 cup light sour cream ✚ 1 tbsp white wine vinegar

TIP

You could add drained, crushed pineapple to the mixture, or even sliced radish.

1 In a large bowl, toss together all of the ingredients. Season to taste. Chill until required. 2 For the dressing, whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl. Season to taste. 3 Drizzle dressing over coleslaw. Toss well.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 103

TIP

This salad will keep for up to 2 days in the fridge. Pack the yoghurt and lemon wedges separately.

MINS

GREEN OLIVE TAPENADE

CHARGRILLED VEGETABLE, CHICKEN AND COUSCOUS SALAD

SERVES 6-8 PREP 10 MINS COOK 5 MINS ✚ 1½ cups stuffed green olives ✚ ¼ cup olive oil, plus extra 1 tbsp ✚ 1 tbsp capers ✚ 1 tbsp lemon juice ✚ 1 garlic clove, chopped ✚ 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander leaves, plus extra leaves to serve

✚ 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed ✚ 250g punnet cherry tomatoes ✚ bagel crisps, to serve

SERVES 4 PREP 15 MINS ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

11⁄2 cups couscous 11⁄2 cups boiling water 1 tbsp olive oil 2 cups drained mixed chargrilled vegetables ✚ 1 cup lightly packed fresh mint

1 Place the olives, oil, capers, juice and garlic in a food processor and process until almost smooth. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in the chopped coriander. 2 Toss the asparagus in the extra oil. Heat a chargrill pan over high heat. Grill the asparagus and tomatoes for 1-2 mins, turning halfway, until asparagus is almost tender and tomatoes are slightly blistered. Season to taste. Cool. 3 Serve the dip with the asparagus, tomatoes and bagel crisps.

✚ 1 cup lightly packed flat-leaf parsley leaves ✚ 11⁄2 cups shredded barbequed chicken (see Note) ✚ 1⁄2 cup Greek-style yoghurt ✚ 1 lemon, cut into wedges

1 Combine the couscous, water and oil in a large heatproof bowl. Cover and stand for 5 mins or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork. Season to taste. 2 Chop the vegetables and herbs coarsely. 3 Add the chicken, vegetables and herbs to couscous in a large bowl and toss to combine. Serve with yoghurt and lemon wedges. Note: You need about half a barbequed chicken.

BACON AND HERB CHICKEN PATTIES MAKES 8 PREP 15 MINS (+ CHILLING) COOK 10 MINS ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

MINS

104 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

1 garlic clove, crushed 2 green onions, finely chopped 500g chicken mince 1 egg 3⁄4 cup stale wholemeal breadcrumbs

✚ 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley ✚ 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil ✚ 1⁄3 cup tomato chutney ✚ 8 rindless bacon slices

1 Combine garlic, onion, mince, egg, breadcrumbs, herbs and chutney in a large bowl. Season well. Shape mixture into 8 patties. 2 Wrap patties with bacon. Place on a tray. Chill for 30 mins. 3 Cook over medium heat in an oiled frying pan until browned on all sides and cooked through.

E ASY

FO O D

MINS

CHICKEN AND ZUCCHINI CAKES MAKES 12 PREP 20 MINS COOK 30 MINS

TIP

Cool cakes before packing in airtight containers. Cakes will keep, refrigerated, for up to two days. Cakes can also be frozen.

✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

7 eggs 1½ cups self-raising flour 11⁄2 cups grated cheddar cheese 1⁄3 cup olive oil ¼ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

1 Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan. Line two 6-hole (3⁄4-cup/180ml) texas muffin pans with muffin wraps or paper cases. 2 Whisk the eggs in a large jug. Add the sifted flour, cheese, oil, parsley and mint and mix well. Add onion, zucchini and

✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

¼ cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves 1 large brown onion, finely chopped 4 medium zucchini, coarsely grated 300g barbequed chicken, finely chopped 6 baby grape tomatoes, halved

chicken and mix well. Season. Spoon 1⁄2 cup mixture into muffin wraps. Top with the tomato. 3 Bake for about 30 mins. Stand in pan for 5 mins, before turning, top-side up, onto a wire rack to cool.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 105

E ASY

FO O D

MARBLED LAMINGTONS MAKES 25 PREP 40 MINS (+ STANDING & COOLING) COOK 35 MINS ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

125g butter, softened 1 cup caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 3 eggs 1 3⁄4 cups self-raising flour

1 Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan. Grease a 23cm square cake pan. Line the base and sides with baking paper, extending paper 5cm over sides. 2 Beat the butter, sugar and vanilla in a small bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. 3 Stir in sifted flour and milk, in 2 batches. Spoon half the mixture into a medium bowl

✚ 1⁄2 cup milk ✚ 2 tbsp cocoa powder ✚ 2 cups desiccated coconut

CHOCOLATE ICING ✚ 15g butter, chopped ✚ 4 cups icing sugar ✚ 1⁄2 cup cocoa powder ✚ 3⁄4 cup milk

and stir in sifted cocoa. Spoon mixtures alternately into pan. Using a skewer, gently swirl mixtures together to create a marbled effect. 4 Bake for 35 mins. Stand in pan for 10 mins, before turning, top-side up, onto a wire rack covered in baking paper to cool. 5 Meanwhile, for chocolate icing, melt butter in a medium heatproof bowl set

over a medium saucepan of simmering water. Sift the icing sugar and cocoa into the melted butter. Stir in the milk. Stir until icing is a coating consistency. 6 Cut the cake into 25 squares. Dip each square in the chocolate icing, draining off excess. Toss squares in coconut (see tip). Place lamingtons on a wire rack to set. Note: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

MINS

TIP

To keep coconut free of chocolate drips, spread out half of coconut in a tray and coat half of the lamingtons. Use the remaining coconut for the remaining lamingtons.

E ASY

TIP

FO O D

Placing the duck breast in a cold pan and then turning on the heat will enable more of the fat to render.

QUICK ‘N’ TASTY

DUCK & CORN TACOS

Miguel Maestre’s healthy take on fast food is perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week. SERVES 4 PREP 25 MINS (+ 30 MINS RESTING) COOK 25 MINS ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

2 duck breasts, skin on sea salt, to taste 1 tbsp Mexican taco seasoning 2 corn cobs, kernels removed ½ red onion ½ red cabbage, shredded ½ cup Kewpie mayonnaise 1⁄2-1 tbsp chipotle sauce, to taste ¼ iceberg lettuce, shredded 1 avocado, seeded, sliced

1 For the tortillas, combine all ingredients in a large bowl using your hands. Knead the dough for 5-10 mins until smooth and elastic. Roll into a ball. Divide into 8 even pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Cover and set aside for 30 mins to rest. 2 Meanwhile, pat duck breast dry with paper towel. Use a sharp knife to score the skin. Rub the salt and Mexican seasoning into the skin. 3 Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface into 20cm circles. Heat a frying pan over high heat. Cook for 30 secs each side until browned. Wrap in foil to keep warm. 4 Place breast, skin-side down, in a cold non-stick frying pan over medium heat

✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

8 cherry tomatoes, quartered grated manchego cheese, to serve 2 limes, cut into wedges fresh coriander leaves, to garnish TORTILLAS 2 cups plain flour 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil ½ tsp salt 170ml warm water pinch baking soda

(see tip). As the fat melts, tilt the pan towards you and use a spoon to baste the flesh side of the breast. Cook for 6 mins, then turn and cook for a further 4 mins. Use tongs to turn breast on sides to evenly sear all surfaces. It should be firm but springy. Set aside for 10 mins to rest. 5 Using the hot duck fat in same pan, cook the corn, onion and cabbage until soft. 6 Meanwhile combine the mayonnaise and chipotle sauce (as desired). 7 Slice duck breast on an angle. Divide among tortillas. Top with corn mixture, lettuce, avocado and tomato. Sprinkle with cheese. Drizzle with mayonnaise. Squeeze over lime. Garnish with coriander.

Miguel travelled to the Northern Territory by campervan and stopped at beautiful Edith Falls in Nitmiluk National Park to cook up this Mexican-inspired dinner for some of the locals. AS SEEN ON

TUNE IN

Catch The Living Room 7:30pm Friday on TEN.

Tenplay.com.au/ thelivingroom

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 107

SWEET SNACKS

SENSATIONAL SLICES Pack a delicious surprise in your family’s lunch boxes with these super-easy treats – they’re even freezer friendly!

SEEDY FLAPJACKS MAKES 18 PREP 10 MINS COOK 40 MINS ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

4 cups rolled oats 1 cup soft brown sugar ¼ cup currants ¼ cup black chia seeds ¼ cup flaxseeds

✚ ✚ ✚ ✚

½ cup plain flour 250g butter, chopped ½ cup golden syrup 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest

1 Preheat oven to 150°C/130°C fan. Grease an 18cm x 26cm slice pan. Line the base and two long sides with baking paper, extending paper 5cm above the side of the pan. 2 Combine the oats, sugar, currants, chia seeds, flaxseeds and flour in a large bowl. 3 Melt the butter and golden syrup in a saucepan over low heat. Stir through the lemon zest. Pour onto the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. 4 Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down evenly to smooth the top. Bake on the lower shelf for about 40 mins or until browned and set. Remove from the oven and cool completely in pan before cutting. Note: Suitable to freeze. Not suitable to microwave.

MINS

108 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

E ASY

FO O D

CHOCOLATE AND COCONUT SLICE MAKES 20 PREP 10 MINS COOK 35 MINS ✚ 125g butter, chopped ✚ 100g dark chocolate, finely chopped ✚ 1⁄3 cup firmly packed soft brown sugar ✚ 2 eggs, lightly beaten ✚ 1 tsp vanilla bean paste

✚ 1⁄2 cup plain flour ✚ ¼ cup cocoa powder ✚ 1⁄2 cup cranberries COCONUT TOPPING ✚ 4 eggwhites ✚ 2⁄3 cup raw caster sugar ✚ 2 cups desiccated coconut

1 Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan. Grease a shallow 20cm square cake pan and line the base and two sides with baking paper, extending paper 5cm above the sides. 2 Combine butter and chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until just melted. 3 In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, eggs and vanilla bean paste. Add the chocolate mixture and stir until smooth. Sift over the flour and cocoa and stir to combine. Fold through cranberries. 4 Spread mixture in cake pan. Bake for 15 mins or until just firm. 5 Meanwhile, for the coconut topping, in a medium bowl, whisk the eggwhites until just frothy. Add sugar and coconut and mix well. 6 When cooked, remove pan from the oven and carefully spoon over coconut topping. Use a fork to rough up the surface. 7 Bake for a further 20 mins or until coconut is golden brown. 8 Cool and then cut into squares. Store in an airtight container. Note: Suitable to freeze. Not suitable to microwave.

MINS

SPICED BANANA AND PEACH SLICE MAKES 12 PREP 10 MINS COOK 40 MINS

PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN PAUL URIZAR/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

MINS

✚ ¾ cup raw caster sugar ✚ 1 tsp vanilla bean paste ✚ 3 eggs, beaten lightly ✚ 1⁄3 cup vegetable oil ✚ 125g unsalted butter, melted ✚ 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest

✚ 11⁄3 cups selfraising flour ✚ 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda ✚ ½ tsp ground cinnamon ✚ ½ tsp ground allspice ✚ 2 medium very ripe bananas, mashed

✚ 2 medium carrots, grated ✚ 1 cup finely chopped dried peaches LEMON GLAZE ✚ 1 cup pure icing sugar, sifted ✚ 11⁄2 tbsp lemon juice (approximately)

1 Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan. Grease an 18cm x 26cm slice pan. Line the base and two long sides with baking paper, extending paper 5cm above the side of the pan. 2 In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vanilla, eggs, oil, butter and lemon zest. 3 Sift over the flour, bicarb and spices and stir to combine. Add the banana, carrot and peach and mix well. Spread mixture into the prepared pan. Bake for 35-40 mins or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Cool in the pan before turning out onto a wire rack. 4 For the lemon glaze, combine the icing sugar with 1 tbsp of the lemon juice. Stir until smooth and, if it needs to be a little thinner, add the remaining lemon juice. 5 Drizzle slice with the lemon glaze. Cut into pieces. Store in an airtight container. Note: Suitable to freeze. Not suitable to microwave.

HEALTHY SNACK IDEAS

Looking for nutritious additions for the lunch box? Give these a go. Boiled eggs Cheese or vegetable sticks wrapped in ham or prosciutto Wholegrain crackers with hummus Tuna and brown rice Air-popped popcorn Rice or corn cakes Mini pretzels Homemade trail/nibble mixes: choose the dried fruits and nuts that you enjoy Seasonal fruit: try chopped apple or firm pears mixed with slices of orange to prevent discolouration, and in summer, try frozen sliced grapes.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 109

ON THE ROAD

Editor Sue Wheeler shares the highlights of her family’s very first campervan holiday when they drove from Adelaide to Melbourne.

WE LOVE CAMPING but had waited for our son Wilf to get a bit older for a campervan driving holiday – and now was the time. After a how-to tour around our Apollo Euro Deluxe motorhome from staff at the Adelaide office, we set off in what was going to be our dinky home with wheels for a week. Did I deliberately not listen to the bit about emptying the toilet? I’m not sure, but it was safe to say I would probably be busy with something else when that job arose. I’m not good with pumps and slurry… and besides, my husband Nathan is an ex-farmer. Surely that’s in his job description, not mine? There was something very comforting and cosy about living in a motorhome with everything you need, but at the same time I felt this great sense of freedom and adventure. It’s so exciting just being able to take off and stay somewhere for as long or as little as you like. And there’s never any “Mum, I’ve left my swimmers/football boots/ favourite hat at home” because your house is right there with you all the time. Here are some of the best bits of our family road trip... 110 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

KANGAROO ISLAND Before hitting the Great Ocean Road we drove to Cape Jervis and hopped on a SeaLink ferry for the 45-minute journey to Kangaroo Island. Clearly I’d been living under a rock: I hadn’t realised how incredible this island was. Its stunning conservation parks, unique natural beauty and the sheer number of animals you can see roaming in the wild (glossy black cockatoos, emus, koalas and kangaroos among them) make it an Australian bucketlist destination for sure. Because it is isolated, the island is free from many of the country’s pests and diseases, which is why so many bird and animal species have flourished. Over a third of the island is protected in nature reserves.

BIRD IN THE HAND We’ve been to the bird show at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo a couple of times, so when I heard about the In-Flights Birds of Prey display at the Raptor Domain, I did wonder if we should skip it. There’s a lot to see on the island and we were

ADELAIDE

CAPE JERVIS KANGAROO ISLAND

MELBOURNE PORT FAIRY TWELVE APOSTLES

LORNE APOLLO BAY CAPE OTWAY

only scratching the surface. Thankfully a SeaLink staff member told us it was unmissable, and we all agreed it was one of the top experiences of the holiday. We held owls, falcons, kookaburras and a massive wedgetailed eagle (1), which was so heavy that Wilf couldn’t hold it up without the help of the keeper. The Raptor Domain centre is all about environmental education and rehabilitation. Most of the birds in the presentation have been injured or orphaned and are not suitable for release into the wild. The centre’s aim is to create awareness and encourage an appreciation of conservation. It was

T R AVEL+ such a privilege to be around these amazing creatures and, luckily for us, there were very few people there in the low season, so it was like having a private show. The centre’s Fang-Tastic reptile show is also great.

A WILD DAY OUT On the second day we thought we’d let the locals show us the sights and booked the Remarkably Wild Day Tour through sealink.com.au. Our first stop was Clifford’s Honey Farm for a talk and a tasting. Originally imported from Italy, the Ligurian bees on Kangaroo Island are believed to be the last remaining pure stock of this bee in the world. We bought some of their beautifully fragrant honey… and we all had a homemade honey ice-cream (well, it’d be rude not to!). Next we headed west to Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (drowsy koalas

galore in the Eucalyptus trees), and played “spot the sea lion” from the boardwalk at Seal Bay Conservation Park. Then we wandered around the Remarkable Rocks (2) – yes, they are truly remarkable – and Admirals Arch in Flinders Chase National Park. The rugged coastline, stunning sea views and weirdly-whipped rock formations were beautiful in bracing June weather.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS to see and places to stop along this famous, awe-inspiring coastal route (3). In a campervan is a perfect way to see it; driving at your own pace, meandering your way through breathtaking scenery and stopping at many watercolourworthy lookouts and small towns. We had a plan of where we wanted to reach each night and what we might want to see along the way, but hey, you can be flexible on a trip like

this. The Kangaroo Island trip had eaten into our schedule a little, so one day we drove for five hours to make sure we’d reach Melbourne by the end of the week. However if you had seven days on the Great Ocean Road, you could be more easygoing. At the end of each day we pulled into a tourist park and picked our spot. It was pretty empty due to the time of year – June is the low-season, so no booking ahead was required.

ANTIQUES ROADSHOW I’m a sucker for a charming little village like picturesque Port Fairy (4-5), at the start of the Great Ocean Road coming from Adelaide. Its streets are lined with divine 19th-century cottages with more than 50 buildings classified by the National Trust. I wandered into Periwinkle Antiques and bought two adorable terrines and a gravy boat (6-7) and a colourful striped basket from Ocean Belle on Bank Street (8). HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 111

T R AVEL+ 7

TOWER HILL Just 10 minutes from Port Fairy is Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a crater of the dormant volcano that’s perfect for a quick geology lesson. In just one of the 30-minute walking loops we also saw koalas and emus up close. Other inhabitants include seals, dolphins and an impressive collection of water birds. No shortage of wildlife here!

APOLLO BAY SCALLOP PIES Being both a foodie and a seafood lover, I wasn’t going to miss sampling the delicious and famous scallop pies from the Apollo Bay Bakery. As I still salivate when I think about it, I consider it the best $10 I’ve ever spent… on a pie! If we’d been there longer I’d have had one for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Note to self: come back in February for the Apollo Bay Seafood Festival.

TWELVE APOSTLES A trip on the Great Ocean Road isn’t complete without visiting these icons (9). Although it wasn’t the sunniest of days, the light and cloud formation were amazing, so they looked really 9

magical. We walked 30 minutes to Gibson Steps lookout, above the beach, for a great view east and west.

LOVE LORNE Before hitting Lorne, we made a quick nine-kilometre detour to Erskine Falls (10). One of the highest drops in the Otways region, the falls plunge 30 metres into the tree-fern gully of Erskine River. What’s a road trip without a waterfall stop? Frankly, my family could have left me in Lorne and I would have been quite happy. It’s the largest resort town on the Great Ocean Road and its lovely and laid-back lifestyle had me at “hello”. Across from its horseshoe beach are cool cafes and shops – plenty of sauntering opportunities and nice homewares to be had, too! And given it is only a two-hour drive from Melbourne, Lorne would be a fabulous weekend destination. There’s something for everyone on this coastal trip: natural wonders, walking, wildlife, swimming, shopping and great food. Would we hit the road in a campervan again? You bet.

HANDY SITES

Apollo Motorhome Holidays: apollocamper.com tourkangarooisland.com.au sealink.com.au (for your ferry trips and a great range of tours around Kangaroo Island) Raptor Domain: kangaroo islandbirdsofprey.com.au visitgreatoceanroad.org.au southaustralia.com visitvictoria.com

112 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

PHOTOGRAPHY SUE WHEELER, SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOURISM COMMISSION, VISIT VICTORIA

WHERE TO BUY A

Adairs adairs.com.au + Ahoy Trader ahoytrader.com + Alfresco Emporium alfrescoemporium.com.au + All Posters allposters.com.au + Arro Home arrohome.com + Aura Home aurahome.com.au +

Bayliss Rugs baylissrugs.com Beacon Lighting beaconlighting.com.au + Bed Bath N’ Table bedbathntable.com.au + Brosa brosa.com.au + Bunnings bunnings.com.au

Cane-line Australia canelineaustralia.com.au Choices Flooring choicesflooring.com.au + Città cittadesign.com + Clickon Furniture clickonfurniture.com.au + Coastal Style Prints etsy.com/shop/ coastalstyleprints +

Dash & Albert wintonhouse.com.au + David Jones davidjones.com.au + Designer Boys designerboyscollections.com Door & Cabinet Hardware Online doorandcabinet hardware.com.au + Dulux dulux.com.au +

E F

Early Settler earlysettler.com.au +

PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTINA SOLJO

Fab Habitat fabhabitat.com.au + Fantastic Furniture fantasticfurniture.com.au + Flamingo Road flamingoroad.myshopify.com + Freedom freedom.com.au + French Knot frenchknot.com.au +

George & Willy georgeandwilly.com + Gerflor gerflor.com.au

THE WEBSITES PROVIDED BELOW ARE NOMINATED BY THE SUPPLIER AS THE NATIONAL CONTACT DETAILS FOR LOCATING YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST.

Graham & Brown grahambrown.com +

H&M hm.com/au + H&M Home hm.com/au + Handle House handlehouse.com.au Hard To Find hardtofind.com.au + Harvey Norman harveynorman.com.au + Hello Polly hellopolly.com.au + Howards Storage World hsw.com.au +

I love linen ilovelinen.com.au + Ikea ikea.com + Incy Interiors incyinteriors.com.au +

James Lane jameslane.com.au + JB Hi-Fi jbhifi.com.au + Jessie Breakwell jessiebreakwell.com.au +

Kikki.K kikki-k.com + Kmart kmart.com.au +

La Maison lamaison.net.au + Life Interiors lifeinteriors.com.au + Lo & Co Interiors loandcointeriors.com.au + Lounge Lovers loungelovers.com.au + Luxo Living luxoliving.com.au +

Matt Blatt mattblatt.com.au + Meizai meizai.com.au Milly + Eugene millyandeugene.com.au + Myer myer.com.au +

Natty & Polly nattyandpolly.com.au + Naturally Cane naturallycane.com.au +

Officeworks officeworks.com.au + Olive et Oriel oliveetoriel.com + Olli Ella olliella.com.au +

Oz Design Furniture ozdesignfurniture.com.au +

Palas Jewellery palasjewellery.com + Papier d’Amour papierdamour.com.au + Peter’s of Kensington petersofkensington.com.au + Phillip Jeffries phillipjeffries.com Pillow Talk pillowtalk.com.au + Pottery Barn potterybarn.com.au +

Rapee rapee.com.au Real Safe Candles flamelesscandles.com.au + Rylo Interiors rylo.com.au

Salt & Pepper saltandpepper.com.au

Schots Home Emporium schots.com.au + Schumacher fschumacher.com Sheridan sheridan.com.au + Solomons Security & Blinds onesolomons.com.au Sparkk sparkk.com.au + Spotlight spotlightstores.com + Sunnylife sunnylife.com.au + Super Amart amartfurniture.com.au +

Target target.com.au + Temple & Webster templeandwebster.com.au + The Good Guys thegoodguys.com.au + Typo cottonon.com.au +

Urban Road urbanroad.com.au +

Vanity By Design vanitybydesign.com.au + Victoria’s Basement victoriasbasement.com.au +

Wallpaper Shop wallpapershop.com.au + Waverly waverly.com West Elm westelm.com.au + White Knight whiteknightpaints.com.au

Y Z

Yard games yardgames.com.au +

Zanui zanui.com.au + Zara Home zarahome.com

+ INDICATES THAT THE SUPPLIER OFFERS ONLINE OR MAILORDER SHOPPING OR ORDERING.

Bauer Media Privacy Notice This issue of homes+ magazine, published by Bauer Media Limited (Bauer Media), may contain offers, competitions or surveys which require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to enter or take part in them (Reader Offer). If you provide information about yourself to Bauer Media, Bauer Media will use this information to provide you with the products or services you have requested, and may supply your information to contractors that help Bauer Media to do this. Bauer Media will also use your information to inform you of other Bauer Media publications, products, services and events. Bauer Media may also give your information to organisations that are providing special prizes or offers and that are clearly associated with the Reader Offer. Unless you tell us not to, we may give your information to other organisations that may use it to inform you about other products, services or events or to give to other organisations that may use it for this purpose. If you would like to gain access to the information Bauer Media holds about you, please contact Bauer Media’s Privacy Officer at Bauer Media Limited, 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000.

HOMESPLUS | JANUARY 2018 | 113

M A K E

CLEVER CRAFT... WALLPAPER Salvage and showcase remnants that are too pretty to throw away.

1 2

Turn your bedhead into a feature piece.

Give a mirror frame a fresh new look.

1. HEADBOARD To make a headboard for a queen bed, you’ll need a 12mm-thick piece of MDF 80cm x 167cm (or cut it to the width of your bed plus 14cm). Measure wallpaper to cover MDF, allowing an extra 10cm top and bottom and matching the pattern all the way across, then cut the wallpaper. Apply clear craft glue all over back of wallpaper and stick to MDF, wrapping ends over top and bottom of MDF. Let dry. To make a trim for the sides, cut 2 strips of MDF 3cm x 80cm and paint in desired colour (we used a black sample pot). When dry, use liquid nails to glue strips to front of headboard, down each side; this creates a nice trim and covers the wallpaper edges. When dry, attach heavy-duty mirror-hanging hooks to back and hang on wall.

3 4 Try a fabulous, fuss-free tray makeover in no time at all.

Hang two or more “prints” in different sizes for impact.

Create a statement mirror by revamping an old one. First remove mirror from frame. Cut wallpaper and wrap it around the frame, making sure you match the pattern at any joins (position joins as unobtrusively as possible). Cut slits so the wallpaper can fold around the corners neatly. Stick wallpaper to back of frame with clear craft glue. If the mirror is going to hang in a wet area (or for extra longevity) seal with a coat of clear vanish. Once dry, place the mirror back into the frame.

3. TRAY For a new look, line a tray with an offcut of striking wallpaper. Cut the wallpaper to fit the base and glue down with clear craft glue. When dry, seal with a coat of clear vanish.

4. WALL ART Reuse an old frame (or buy a new one) and add some wallpaper to showcase a print you love. 114 | JANUARY 2018 | HOMESPLUS

TEXT VANESSA NOUWENS PHOTOGRAPHY WENDY FENWICK

2. MIRROR

BUY THE DIARY THAT SAVES LIVES We Australians are practical people. We like things that work, that are useful, that do something – like The Australian Women’s Health Diary. Not only is the 2018 diary a practical way to organise our busy lives, it’s packed with health issues important to women – like breast, heart, bone, family and mental health, along with diet, exercise, skincare and lots more. And, most practical of all, every dollar raised from this diary goes to clinical trials research that saves and improves the lives of people with breast cancer, every day.

Buy the diary for yourself – or as a gift for that special someone – and help to save lives today, tomorrow and forever.

LISA WILKINSON Media personality, mother and wife.

Supported by The Australian Women’s Weekly, AVON and Commonwealth Bank

18.95

from Newsagents, Woolworths, Magshop.com.au and AVON Representatives (avon.com.au)

breastcancertrials.org.au telephone: 1800423444

Make an understated impression. Introducing COLORBOND steel Matt. Available in five natural colours and tested in some of Australia’s harshest conditions, this roofing and walling material features new paint technology that diffuses light to give the surface an elegantly soft, textured appearance. It’s the versatile designer finish that enhances your home, however you choose to use it. Visit COLORBOND.COM/MATT or call 1800 702 764