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DISCOVER THE COOLEST STAY IN TASMANIA

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SECOND STYLE UPDATES

plus how to decorate your living room

from scratch

KIDS’ DECOR YOU’LL WANT TO KEEP FOR YOURSELF

TAKE A TOUR INSIDE THE MOST AMAZING HOME RENOVATION YOU’VE EVER SEEN!

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kingliving.com

DELTA GROUNDBREAKING MODULAR DESIGN The sofa that revolutionised Australian furniture with its embrace of flexible living. The fully modular design adapts to how you live now, tomorrow and years into the future.

107 77 65

124

139

129 26

D E C O R ATE

E AT

10 9 STYLED FROM SCRATCH

13 5 HAVE YOUR CAKE

Don’t be daunted: these 60-second tips will show you how easy it is to decorate your living room from the ground up

Scrumptious cake recipes to warm yourself and your guests this winter

A DV I CE 117 HOME STYLE RULES Living with kids doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste and style: one designer shows us how she’s mixed high design with fun elements in her own home

TR AVE L 14 1 MIDTOWN HOBART CALLING Hobart has a new hotspot! Discover the boutique hotel that’s sitting pretty amongst the action in Hobart: The Rox

O U T S I DE 12 7 WORKING WITH FLOWERS Bring the outside in with beautiful ﬂoral arrangements that work in tricky spaces

EVE R Y MONTH 9 10 27

WELCOME Are Media Privacy Notice SUBSCRIBE to real living this month and receive a bonus homewares gift pack 14 6 FULL STOP Aesthetics expert, Dr Barbara Sturm takes our quiz

real living

hello

I’VE JUST BOUGHT SOME new dining chairs. They arrive in a few days and I can’t wait. I’ve spent years looking for the perfect vintage ones: ladder-back, woven rush-seat, not too ornate but with some decorative detail. It’s a style that my Dutch grandmother used to have and I’ve always loved. In my own home they’ll take on a new look as I’ll team them with a more contemporary table and tableware. But the nostalgia of childhood meals with my family in The Netherlands will be there every time I sit down. Do any of your furniture pieces have a special meaning? Perhaps it’s something that’s been handed down, or a new purchase to signify a milestone or achievement. For anyone looking for the later, this issue we’ve rounded up some spectacular statement chairs and teamed them with statement handbags – because both are investments that will bring joy for many years, serve a practical purpose and can completely make a look. Check them out on page 93. If you’re looking beyond a single piece of furniture and, rather, how to pull a whole room together, ﬂip to page 109 where we reveal how to style a living room from scratch. From choosing a sofa that will last you years to why you should layer rugs, plus some nifty 60-second style tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating your ideal living space. One of my favourite tips, which stylist Jono Fleming shared with me, is to elevate your plants, stuff moss or coconut ﬁbre into the top of your pot around the trunk. He’s so right. I mean, who wants to look at soil? Anyway, I love this styling-from-scratch concept so much I’d like to roll it out for other rooms, so look out for the dining room, bedroom and more in coming issues. But for now, I hope you enjoy this issue. See you next month.

Gentle curves This beautiful living room is from the Ruin X house – one of the most incredible renovations I’ve ever seen. See more on p41.

photography dave wheeler (elle); mindi cooke (living room)

follow me on instagram @ellelovelock

This month I’m looking forward to…

1 Movie nights with popcorn in this Sienna stoneware bowl in Terracotta, $7.95 maxwellwilliams.com.au

Supporting charities with this Food For Everyone poster by Gemma Leslie and Hetty McKinnon, from $75 for A3; foodforeveryone.org.au

3 Scenting my home with the feminine fragrance of a Rosado diffuser, $88; heracodeandco.com

Winter baking! Love this ILVE 1200mm Professional Plus cooker in Moss Grey, $15,999. harveynorman.com.au

Detoxifying with the pure essential oils, red clay and natural loofah in the Australiana body bar from Naoh; $25.95 hardtoﬁnd.com.au

Facebook.com /reallivingmagazine / homestolove.com.au /rl / @ reallivingmag real living

Editor-in-chief Elle Lovelock Creative director Cathryn Zhang Deputy editor Bron Bates

art & style

content

Art directors Andrea Healy, Alice Ierace

Chief copy editor Sarah Pickette

Stylist Corina Koch

Senior features writer Laura Barry

Designer/image retoucher Matus Kundrat

Copy/production editor Tamarah Pienaar

thanks to Annika Baker, Holly Byrne, Darren Christison, Anna Delprat, Jono Fleming, Kate Lincoln, Sue Ramsey, Brittany Smith, Andrea Tomaz Homes group coordinator Anna Campbell (02) 9282 8456

production Title controller & production planner Advertising controller

Sally Jefferys Dominic Roy

advertising Commercial brand manager Brand executive Advertising production manager NSW, Vic, SA director of sales Victorian head of direct sales Queensland head of sales Head of creative NEW ZEALAND

Michelle O’Hanlon (02) 9282 8260 Amelia Paterson (02) 9282 8038 Kate Orsborn (02) 9283 8364 Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 Demi Martello (03) 9823 6368 Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 Clare Catt (02) 8116 9341 Enquiries +61 2 9282 8505

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Jane Huxley Marena Paul Shane Sutton Andrew Cook Jane Waterhouse Georgina Bromﬁeld

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EASY TO INDULGE

TR E AT YO U R S EL F O R SO M EO N E SP E C IA L

H A R D T O F I N D . C O M . AU

Wrap music Don’t shiver this winter – stay snug with throws and blankets that back up prime performance with great looks. Turn the page for more. A

S P A C E S

S T Y L E

LOVING

T A L E N T

real living

photography alana landsberry styling anna delprat creative direction cathryn zhang @reallivingmag

Dropping temperatures and dreary days call for cosy furnishings that will energise your atmosphere. Opt for throws and blankets that inject playful colour and pattern

model ashleigh m /v i v i e n s | hair + makeup michelle cox | styling assistants rikke harker, anna campbell

loving

This page H Riviera Merino wool and cashmere blanket in Bleu Paon (144x200cm), $2540, Hermès. A

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This page Bias round neck silk slip in Nude (seen throughout), $159, Lee Mathews. Mohair blanket in Yellow (120x180cm), $475, Hay. Curio Practice ‘Check Shape’ Merino wool blanket in Wheatgrass & Leaf (150x185cm), $540, Jardan. Opposite page (clockwise from top left) Mohair throw in Maize (122x183cm), $325, St Albans. Nisha linen throw in Warm Choc (130x170cm), $129.95, Provincial Home Living; and Gala upcycled wool and reclaimed ﬁbre throw in Pink/Peach/Cream (180x220cm), $199, Waverley Mills. Balmain knitted cotton throw in Peony (130x180cm), $159.95, Provincial Home Living; Freya fringed linen throw in Blush (150x220cm), $175, Cultiver; and Tilly striped Alpaca blanket in Olive & Teddy (122x210cm), $400, Jardan. Roma woven cotton throw in Green (around shoulders, 180x230cm), $269, Kip & Co; Pyramid recycled wool blanket (130x180cm), $329, Seljak Brand; and Estela linen wafﬂe throw in Forest (over trunk, 150x220cm), $190, Cultiver. @reallivingmag

loving

force of nature An easy and cost-effective design element, blankets are the pretty yet practical warming solution your interior needs, providing a low-risk opportunity to express your personality and explore new styles. A

real living

This page Mirka ‘Mermaid Dreaming’ woven cotton tapestry blanket (275x275cm), $389, Kip & Co. Alpaca throw rug in Cobalt (125x185cm), $350, In Bed. Opposite page (from left) Mohair striped blanket in Burgundy (120x180cm), $475, Hay. Alpaca throw in Multicoloured Stripe (130x190cm), $449, Waverley Mills. Nora fringed Alpaca blanket in Multicolour (122x210cm), $400, Jardan. Sunbeam wool blanket (150x200cm), $349, Seljak Brand.

@reallivingmag

loving

gently does it Choosing the most functional and attractive throw rug or blanket for your space requires consideration of colour, size, texture and location. While minimalist homes benefit from a fresh hit of colour or pattern, a character-filled interior may find success through the exploration of scale and texture in a location that could use some visual layers. R

real living

HOLIDAY VIBES The Islas summer 2022 collection from Faithfull The Brand showcases luxurious basics and timeless shapes in fresh white, bright green and soft tangerine. The ‘Paradise’ shirt, $169, and ‘Sereno’ shorts, $159, in Maya Stripe are on our wishlist. Au.faithfullthebrand.com

little gems

string theory

Byron Bay studio Temple of The Sun has released its Lucia ﬁne jewellery collection. We love the ‘Riva’ garnet earrings, $579. Templeofthesun. com.au

Ditch the plastic and upgrade to one of these chic string shopping bags by Fentl, $24. Hardtoﬁnd.com

staff pick

BLUE WAVE HYDRA HELP

Soothe, restore and hydrate your skin with Go-To’s new Much Plumper Skin Hydrating Serum, $48. Gotoskincare.com

ALICE IERACE Art director

fave finds

Energise your interiors with a hit of electric blue by picking up this Heirloom vessel in Klein Stripe, $220. Claestudio.com.

A whole bunch of things we love... fine and dandy New to the Dandelion collection from Bonnie and Neil are these gorgeous handcrafted vases, which come in a range of nostalgic shapes and ﬁnishes. Bonnieandneil.com.au

style crush Power through the winter months in style with gorgeous new active/leisure wear from The Upside. The label’s Love Club spring/summer 2022 collection features elevated basics in soft fabrics. Our pick? This go-anywhere ‘Retrograde’ jacket in Black, $249.99. Theupside.com.au @reallivingmag

A N D R E A H E A LY Art director

EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE The Juliette Hogan Lounge Sophie trouser, $569, and JHL Luxe tank, $249, fill that space between on- and off-duty style. Jhlounge.com

text laura barry

staff pick

loving natural element

SIMPLE PLEASURES

Tinja brings together natural materials and earthy hues to produce a tactile and warming collection of ceramics and homewares that are sure to spruce up any tired interior scene. Shop the range now at Clo Studios, from $205 per piece. Clostudios.com.au

real living loves

Melbourne artist Libby Haines finds beauty in the everyday. ‘Toast & Flowers’ is a gorgeous limited-edition art print that’s perfect for injecting a little colour into your interiors. From $55-$330 Libbyhaines.com

stay cool Sustainable practices are always in style and you don’t get more stylish than a reusable drink bottle or cup from Frank Green’s new Chrome collection. Reusable 1L bottle, $69.95. Frankgreen.com.au

staff pick

CATH RY N Z H A N G Creative director

CIAO BELLA

staff pick

Elevate your at-home dining experience with wonderful wares from Mrs Tablescape’s Amalfi Coast-inspired Ashleigh collection. Mrstablescape.com B RON BATE S

photography the quarter acre (clo studio) martina gemmola (bonnie and neil)

Deputy editor

FAV E F O U R

1 beauty sleep

staff pick

ELLE LOVELOCK Editor-in-chief

Perfect for apartment balconies, King’s new Olive outdoor tables are easy to assemble and move around. Two-seater dining table, $2600. Kingliving.com.au

2 mane event

Look after your body’s natural alignment with the comfy Sealy Posturepedic ‘Arlington Plush’ mattress, $2399 at Harvey Norman. Harveynorman.com.au

ROYAL TREATMENT

3 4

1 Boost Hairology Advanced Repair capsules, $85 for 30, Vida Glow. 2 Restore Larry King ‘Social Life’ shampoo, $72 for 300ml, Adore Beauty. 3 Soothe Hair Rituel Soothing Rebalancing Cure, $165 for 60ml, Sisley Paris. 4 Hydrate Nurture Hydrating shampoo, $18 for 295ml, JVN Hair. real living

FELLA SWIM PADDINGTON, NSW

space crush

This elegant boutique takes style cues from Italy’s most fashionable destinations WHEN INTERIOR DESIGNER ALEXANDRA PONTING first saw the proposed Fella Swim location in Sydney’s Paddington, it was bleak. “The site was pretty derelict,” says Alexandra, founder of AP Design House. “It was a dirty concrete pit with a very illegal makeshift staircase and a dodgy sliding front entry door. It needed to be gutted – which suited me!” Alexandra removed walls, built a new staircase and constructed a fresh street facade in order to fulfill her clients’ wish of achieving an elegant, European-style boutique influenced by Milan and Capri in Italy. “The New Guinea rosewood French doors with walnut stain and sidelight windows with beautiful detail are classic,” says Alexandra. “The pairing of the black and white awning, brass hardware, Carrara marble front stoop, black lacework balustrade and the original brickwork of the Victorian terrace have my heart.” Inside, white and brown feature prominently, with depth and contrast created through the use of organic textures such as timber, marble, iron and brass. The furniture is a mix of bespoke and vintage pieces, paired with vintage Italian wall sconces and pendants. “The flooring is the hero of the space and really fulfills the brief,” says Alexandra. “The Carrara and Pietra Brown marbles are a softer and oversized scale of that seen in [Italian architect] Osvaldo Borsani’s villa in Varedo.” R @reallivingmag

loving FROM LEFT Curves ahead “Perfecting the curves and symmetry of each marble piece to work within the footprint of the store was a challenge with such large and fragile pieces of stone,” says Alexandra of the floors. Bespoke beauty The hand-forged iron display racks and rails were designed by AP Design House to reflect the floor’s shape. A vintage Murano glass pendant light hangs from the ceiling. Touch point A rendered beige finish was used on the walls for added texture. Centre stage The fitting area has a custom brass mirror, vintage Paolo Venini Italian glass wall sconces and Nepalese brown carpet inset into the marble floors.

shop it

words laura barry | photography rory gardiner architecture ap design house | styling alexandra ponting

Sabath full-piece swimsuit in Snake Print, $250; Herman top in Fudge, $145; Franz bottoms in Fudge, $80; Grande hat in Snake Print, $395; all Fella Swim.

real living

beauty spot Mask away! Extract visible and enduring results from your at-home facial photography alana landsberry styling cathryn zhang @reallivingmag

words annika baker

loving

THIS PAGE, FROM TOP Sheridan Makenna striped women’s shirt in White, $119.99. Verso Nourishing face mask, $158.40 for 100ml, Mecca. Fresh Black Tea Firming overnight mask, $140 for 100ml, Sephora. L’Occitane Aqua Reotier hydration mask, $65 for 75ml. Sisley Paris Velvet sleeping mask with Saffron Flowers, $170 for 60ml. Hourglass Equilibrium Instant Plumping eye mask, $102 for 30ml, Mecca. RéVive Masque de Radiance Brightening moisture mask, $225, Mecca. Alpha H Beauty Sleep Power Peel, $129 for 50ml. OPPOSITE, FROM LEFT Sheridan Brannen cushion in Sandcastle, $99.99. Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream mask, $74 for 59ml, Sephora. Laneige Water sleeping mask, $48 for 70ml, Sephora. Aceology Green Tea mask, $69 for 65ml. Avène DermAbsolu Recontouring mask, $70.99 for 75ml, SuperPharmacy. Habitual Beauty Hydrating sleep mask, $95. Fresh Sugar Recovery Lip Mask Advanced Therapy, $26, Sephora. Maison Balzac Scallop platter in Pink, $89. real living

Driving innovation USM prioritises sustainable, functional and high-quality products, continually reinforcing itself as a leader in modular design. USM is exclusively distributed in Australia by Anibou, bridging the gap between international furniture design and you.

simply the best Celebrating the seductiveness of simplicity, USM delights with minimalist design concepts that provide unparalleled efficiency for any space

@reallivingmag

loving

MODERN HIS T ORY

words annika baker | photography bruno augsburger photography, courtesy of anibou, artwork by unknown artist

1961 ADDING TO THE EXTENSIVE LIST of things the Swiss are superior at, USM has inscribed its name as a modular furniture brand rivalled by none. USM is an acronym derived from the name of its founder (Ulrich Schaerer) and the village of Münsingen in Switzerland, where the brand was established and is still based. Originating as a metalwork company in 1885, USM started out by developing window fittings and ornamental hinges. The company has undergone significant developments in its products and services since its origin. Today, USM is revered by design connoisseurs around the globe for its simple furniture lines that champion flexibility and modularity. The 1960s was arguably the most significant era of innovation for the family business, with a headquarters, factory and private Schaerer family residence conceived and built. All of these buildings were drawn up in line with the company’s design principles, which focus on the adaptation and expandability of spatial dimensions. In the same decade, the USM Haller modular storage system was invented. It was developed by Fritz Haller and third-generation Schaerer, Paul, who joined the company in 1961. He had graduated with an engineering degree and was eager to modernise the family business, and he began by commissioning Fritz Haller to design a company headquarters that could expand as the business grew. Soon after, in 1963, inspired by mirroring the building’s modularity, he and Haller developed a furniture range. It comprised a system of steel modules that could be reconfigured in line with the needs of a space. The main element was a seemingly simple yet elegant ball joint that could be adapted to various manufacturing processes and is now an integral part of USM’s modular furniture DNA. Most ingenious ideas are bred out of a desire to fulfill a personal need, and USM’s furniture designs are no different. Initially created for the company’s own use, these adaptable furniture systems have revolutionised commercial furniture design around the world. R

The Buchli house was the last of three buildings built between 1961 and 1969, developed by Fritz Haller (above) and Paul Schaerer. The house was built to be the Schaerer family’s residence and now hosts USM guests. Some of the USM storage range (far left).

1965

Introducing the core of the USM Haller furniture design concept. This metal ball joint (right), patented in 1965, enables the conﬁguration of each furniture piece to be customised according to the space.

2001

USM was included in the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) permanent design collection in New York city. The design comprises of steel and chrome components: a sphere joint, tubes and panels, with castors as for this unit (left).

2018

USM’s Haller and Kitos M ranges received Cradle to Cradle certiﬁcation for the development of upcycling products, for its environmental efforts. Seen here are the Home Ofﬁce 4 (top) and Mobile Pedestal.

real living

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loving

winter reads

words annika baker and bron bates

Curl up with a luxurious throw and our edit of the must-read novels and collections of essays on offer from 2022 so far

Mad About You by Mhairi McFarlane Who doesn’t love to cosy up with a quirky rom-com on a chilly evening? (No one, that’s who.) McFarlane delivers a lovable character in Harriet Hatley while approaching issues of gaslighting with emotional complexity. HarperCollins, $24.99. Elizabeth Finch by Julian Barnes Through Neil the narrator’s reflections on his university professor, the titular Elizabeth Finch, Barnes explores politics, cancel culture and religion, and questions how much of ‘history’ is open to interpretation. Penguin, $35. Burning Questions by Margaret Atwood This voice of reason and humour addresses pressing issues including climate change and the #MeToo movement, and reflects on the role of her writing amidst it. Penguin, $42.99. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt A witty, beautiful exploration of how an unlikely friendship eases a widow’s loneliness and shines light on a once-thought-impossible future. Bloomsbury, $39.99. The Candy House by Jennifer Egan The sibling novel to A Visit From The Goon Squad takes us on a trip through a thought experiment uncannily close to a world we may face sooner rather than later. Hachette, $32.99. Sneaky Little Revolutions edited by Nadia Wheatley The essays of the under-celebrated 1960s writer Charmian Clift provide a fascinating insight into the socio-political landscape of 1960s Australia through the lens of a woman who was of, and ahead of, her time. NewSouth Publishing, $34.99. The Exhibitionist by Charlotte Mendelson This dark, delectable novel is set around an artistic family and the unfolding of a weekend of which Mendelson delivers raw, toxic familial dynamics. Pan Macmillan, $39.99. No Hard Feelings by Genevieve Novak Novak flawlessly accounts the horrors many endure when navigating the societal expectations of our twenties. Equally as funny as it is smart, her delightful lead character Penny will capture your heart. HarperCollins, $32.99. This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub Offering a different kind of love story, between a father and daughter, this is a beautiful work of love, loss and the fragility of time. Have a loved one on stand-by for a hug. Penguin, $32.99. French Braid by Anne Tyler With her understanding of the nuances of family life and eagle-eyed observations of the everyday, Tyler’s latest saga takes the reader through life with the Garrett family as they negotiate the relationships that have formed them and the love that binds them. Penguin, $29.99. R real living

hOE gwn Harvey Norman Presents

Sleep in total comfort on a quality mattress proudly made in Australia, by Australians.

THE EXPERT CHOICE A mattress that combines pressure-relieving comfort, body-conforming support and a healthy, hypoallergenic sleep environment, The King Koil Chiro Luxury Estate creates ideal conditions for deep, restorative sleep. Backed by experts at the International Chiropractors Association, it features Copper-Gel infused Memory Foam and the advanced Reflex Max Support System – a combination of comfort and support that gets you to sleep and keeps you asleep.

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Reflex Max Support system minimises partner disturbance. Coolmax® technology wicks away moisture for a cooler and more comfortable sleep. Backed by Sensitive Choice, providing protection for asthma and allergy sufferers. Craftsman-made with a 10-year guarantee.

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Australian made and exclusive to Harvey Norman.

King Koil CHIRO LUXURY ESTATE MEDIUM Queen Mattress $2799; ELIZA Queen Bed in Proﬁle Panache Moonbeam fabric $2199; EAST HAMPTON 1-Drawer Bedside Table in White $599; BARCELONA Wing Back Chair with Cushion in Natural $829; NALA Silver Throw (127 x 152cm) $69; DAKOTA Natural Ceramic Lamp $129; JAMIESON Olive Queen/King Coverlet Set $229; DRAZAN Sage Cushion $39.95; VENICE Mustard Cushion $49.95; VISCONTI L Rug in Natural (200 x 290cm) $1099.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

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SLEEP IN STYLE Style meets substance with the Beautyrest Black® Medici Medium mattress. Offering high-tech support without compromising comfort, this not-too-hard, not-too-soft mattress delivers your own Goldilocks moment, every night. Together, the cushioning layers of Dreamfoam® and a Triple Helix Micro Coil system give you the ultimate sleep indulgence. Think of it as the cashmere sweater of the bedding world – stylish, luxurious and unquestionably enduring.

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Exceptional support thanks to the masterful technology of BeautyEdge®, which ensures the mattress is stable from edge to edge. Dreamfoam® delivers a luxurious feel without compromising on back support. Innovative materials such as Silk Aircool ™ Quilt and antibacterial Kulkote® Carbon help wick heat from the body to keep you cool and comfortable.

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Australian made and exclusive to Harvey Norman.

Beautyrest Black® MEDICI MEDIUM Queen Mattress $3299; Beautyrest Black® Queen Standard Base $999; ASTOR 2-Drawer Bedside Table $349; JAMIESON Silver Queen/King Coverlet Set $229; ATMOSPHERE Cushion in Rose $69; JAMIESON Silver Cushion $39.95; DIVA L Rug (200 x 290cm) $1849.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

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The Perfect Match Featuring Wool Fibre and additional comfort layers, the Sealy Posturepedic ® Arlington Plush Mattress is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a bed that feels like it was made just for you. A master of ﬂexibility, the Arlington’s innovative Titanium AlignSupport ™ system features intuitive titanium coils, which work to maintain your body’s natural alignment while you sleep. In addition, resilient ComfortCore® SenseGel provides superior lumbar support to facilitate deep and undisturbed rest.

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UniCased ® XT edge support protects the mattress perimeter and base, providing a stable sleep surface and minimising disturbance. Melt into sleep on an ultra-sensitive Memory Foam layer that conforms to your body. Treated with SmarTex®, the Tencel fabric mattress cover is gentle on the skin, efficiently absorbing moisture to keep you cool.

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Australian made and exclusive to Harvey Norman.

Sealy Posturepedic® Elevate Ultra ARLINGTON PLUSH Queen Mattress $2399; MONTAGE Queen Bedframe with Floating Base $2299; MONTAGE 3-Drawer Bedside Table in Natural Finish $1299; LINEN Queen/King Coverlet Set in White $389; CONSTANCE Cushion in Blush $39.95; VISCONTI L Rug in Grey (200 x 290cm) $1099.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

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JUST RIGHT Enjoy serene nights with the Sealy Optimum® Linear Medium Mattress. Engineered using high density foam and lofty comfort layers, its thoughtfully chosen materials create solid support, without too much ﬁrmness. Striking the perfect balance between bodyhugging comfort and motion absorption, this is the ideal choice for people who want a mattress that will shape itself to their optimum sleeping position.

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Minimise middle-of-the-night wakeups with high density foam that absorbs motion, reducing disturbance caused by restless sleepers. Viscoelastic Memory Foam provides a deep layer of slow-release pressure relief for long-lasting support.

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Australian made and exclusive to Harvey Norman.

Sealy Optimum® LINEAR MEDIUM Queen Mattress $2799; HARRISON Queen Bed in Warwick Lexus Haze fabric $1999; HARRISON 2-Drawer Bedside Table $549; HARRISON Bed Bench $1399; DRAZAN Blue Queen/King Coverlet Set $209; SHAW Linen Blend Cushion in Silver $49; PACIFIC L Rug (200 x 290cm) $1299.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

AS YOU LIKE IT It’s all about you with the SleepMaker ® Arizona Deluxe Firm Mattress, perfect for anyone who craves a personal touch in the bedroom. Expertly designed for superior balance and pressure relief, it comes with your choice of mattress or ensemble in four noticeably different feels: plush, medium, firm and super firm. No matter what you decide, every bed comes with a five-zone Micro Pocket Coil spring and KulKote® temperature-regulating technology. The result? The kind of sleep you’ve only ever dreamt about.

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Support tired muscles and alleviate pressure with a clever combination of Graphene and Fusion Gel, Climatex® Quilt and Memory Foam. The unique five-zone Micro Pocket Coil provides a stronger coil system for greater all-over support and exceptional spinal alignment. Maintain the perfect temperature all night with Kulkote® – a genius design feature that draws heat away and releases it back when needed.

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SleepMaker® ARIZONA DELUXE FIRM Queen Mattress $2399; SleepMaker® ARIZONA DELUXE Standard Queen Base $699; MILLY Marble Table Lamp $235; LUXE 2-Drawer Bedside Table $549ea; ATMOSPHERE Cushion in Olive or Fawn $69ea; SHAW Linen Blend Cushion in Sage $49; ATMOSPHERE Throw in Fawn $99; NALA Ochre Throw (127 x 152cm) $69; LUX L Rug (200 x 290cm) $1749.

SHOP ONLINE WITH YOUR LOCAL STORE HN.COM.AU OR CALL 1300 464 278 Harvey Norman® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Bedding prices are valid in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane metropolitan areas only. Prices in other areas will be higher due to additional freight charges. Promotion ends 22/06/2022.

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Finishing touch Discover the beauty of render from ﬂoor to ceiling in this showstopping Queensland home. Turn over the page to see more. A

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photography mindi cooke styling carlene duffy words holly byrne

Sweeping curves, soaring ceilings and a finishing flourish that’s never been seen before – step inside this Gold Coast beauty and discover the art of render

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Lounging around A grand Timothy Oulton chandelier sets the mood in the formal living room. The ceiling’s curves are reﬂected in a Coco Republic sofa and Object X coffee table to create an inviting atmosphere, with a layer of warmth via the Sahra rug from Parker & Persia. A real living

YOU WON’T SEE MUCH HANGING on the walls of this one-of-a-kind home in Burleigh Waters on Queensland’s Gold Coast. “The art is in the render – the house is the art,” says Emma Sweeney, who designed and created the unique abode known as Ruin X with her partner Matt Jamieson. The entrepreneurial couple were looking for a large-scale application after launching their furniture range Object X, which was inspired by Matt’s market-leading render company Render X. “This was our first renovation and we absolutely fell in love with it,” Emma says. The process involved transforming a 1990s three-bedroom, cream-brick house into a masterpiece in just five months, with rendering on every surface along the way. PRIME LOCATION “It was four minutes to the beach, it had incredible bones and the size of the land was amazing,” explains Emma, who saw the potential in the humble house on her first viewing. “It’s also a north-facing block. There were just so many things that ticked our boxes and won us over.” Confident in their vision, they wasted no time in getting started. PLAYING TO STRENGTHS A penchant for bold, brave style is shared by the pair. “Matt and I are both quite eccentric with our fashion, and so we wanted to do a home that was quite eccentric, too,” says Emma. Enlisting local architect Jayson Pate topped their to-do list. “We basically gave him a wishlist of what we wanted,” says Emma. “We knew our style and we did all the interior design, but Jayson really maximised our land properly and knew what would work here.” INSPIRED DESIGN The magic of render was the muse for Ruin X, although Emma also looked to the usual suspects (Instagram and Pinterest) for some creative encouragement. “I’ve pulled things from a lot of different places, hoping they would work, but in the end it organically came together through just choosing things that we loved,” she says. “We pulled it all together with the one-coloured render everywhere, and by creating our own furniture.” R

Dream team “Before we met three years ago, Matt started Render X, which is a globally recognised rendering company,” Emma says. “Once we got together, we started Object X, which is a rendered furniture line.” The couple are now embarking on yet another renovation. Fine dining Chairs from Love Tree Interiors are perfect for the stunning, sculptural table by Object X, set between the kitchen and sliding glass doors that open to the backyard. Hearts & Bruises mixed media on raw-stretched canvas, framed in custom-painted oak, by Left Bank Art Group, adorns the wall. A

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who lives here? Emma Sweeney and Matt Jamieson, founders of furniture label Object X. objectx.com.au | @object.x

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Levelling up An open-plan living space was always on the cards, but the split levels that delineate the formal living from the kitchen and dining were an original feature. A hand-blown glass pendant by Søktas glistens above the island, while the Timothy Oulton chandelier makes an impression from the next room. “We have over 65 lights in this house,” says Emma, who was particular about their placement and colour to ensure the mood was right. A

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Holes in the wall Instead of floating shelves, Matt and Emma created a feature wall with specifically shaped niches and a low recess shelf to act as the entertainment unit. “We spent a full day cutting them out and rendering them – we shaped the niches based on the objects we have bought in the last year,” Emma recalls. Kitchen credentials To continue the render into the kitchen cabinetry, the pair were supplied with raw MDF, which Matt then rendered over. Finding the right benchtop was a bigger challenge. “I wanted something incredible and a standout, but I also wanted to complement the render and not to be too busy,” Emma says. She opted for a fine onyx. A

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3 ways to style with texture

Welcome the renaissance of Venetian plaster into your home with a feature wall, an entire room or the whole home.

Embrace natural materials such as stone and wood where possible. Their tactile touch and organic finish will add warmth and visual interest.

Create contrast by pairing glimmering golds and beautiful brass accents with more industrial surfaces like stone and concrete.

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Brown sugar Emma makes no apologies for the extensive use of brown, inside and out. “We knew that browns will never date,” she says. “Browns are in, and it creates a soft tone for the home no matter how eccentric it got.” Made in the shade A dip after work is always a delight, especially in warmer weather. A

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Resortful rest Reminiscent of a Mediterranean haven, the master bedroom features an arched doorway to the ensuite and a custom built-in bed by Bradford Constructions, also rendered by Render X. The couple took an unorthodox approach to concealing the exposed ceiling beams of the original house throughout. “Our plasterers had to do a different procedure of wetting the actual plasterboard itself and to curve it and continue that line, and then Matt put render over the top of it,” Emma says. Right round Curves carry into the powder room, where a freestanding vanity from Concrete Nation is paired with wall-mounted taps from ABI Interiors. A

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Under the arch Natural light streams in through louvre windows above a freestanding bath from Concrete Nation. Brushed copper tapware from ABI Interiors and hand-blown glass pendants by Søktas elevate the sense of spa-inspired luxury.

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shop it! Dress up your render with outstanding organic shapes and textures 2

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still-life styling andrea healy

1 Rise planter (40cm), $249, Città. 2 Santorini Arch Mini mirror (86x118cm), $1500, Jagger and Wolf. 3 Milani tap set in Brushed Copper, $354.80, ABI Interiors. 4 Ollo pendant light in Clear (16cm), POA, Lights Lights Lights. 5 Sketch Glide barstool in Light Oak, $810, GlobeWest. 6 Selby teak candleholders (excludes candles), $149 for pair, McMullin & Co. 7 Bee terracotta vase (35cm), $99, Bonnie and Neil. 8 Vintage Moroccan rug (1.31x2.4m), $740, Benisouk. 9 Leif ‘Buddha Wood’ handwash (left), $35 for 500ml, and Leif ‘Buddha Wood’ hand balm, $59 for 500ml, Jardan. 10 Oscar floor-mounted bath filler in Brushed Copper, $649.90, ABI Interiors. 11 Ferm Living ‘Desert’ lounge chair in Black/Soil, $729, Designstuff. 12 J’ai Soif carafe and glass in Amber, $89, Maison Balzac. 13 Gypsum marble coffee table (1.35x1.35m), $6595, Coco Republic. 14 Men’s rubber sandals, $600, Gucci. 15 Affinity pasta bowls in Latte, $16 for four, Target. 16 Vice Versa carafe, $149, Fazeek. 17 Madreperla washed linen single duvet set in Clay Pink, $125.30, Hard to Find. 18 Petite Valencia concrete tub in Oyster (1.5m), $5190, Concrete Nation. 19 Phoenix dining chair in Boucle Paper, from $695, Coco Republic. 20 Linen pillowcases in Cedar Stripe, $90 for pair, Cultiver.

Colours and ﬁnishes FROM LEFT BeriCalce ‘Liberty Stone’ Venetian plaster render, $250 per sqm, Render X. Custom-made sheer curtains, POA, Qld Blinds and Shutters. Ibrido surface in Onyx Verde (1.6x3.2m slab), POA, Smartstone. Recycled paving bricks, $1.76 each, Recycled Centre. real living

photography dave wheeler styling olivia giangrasso words laura barry

Soaring ceilings, archways and enchanting embellishments – it was love at first sight when a designer saw this Victorian terrace in Sydney’s Inner East Show and tell The items displayed on the Combiplex shelving from Fred International have been collected by homeowner and interior designer Olivia Giangrasso on her travels. There is a black ceramic head from Praiano in Italy, a lion bought in South Africa, objects from Lima in Peru, a vintage Peroni sign and a white Iittala vase. A black ‘Snoopy’ lamp by Flos completes the understated vignette. A real living

THE OWNER OF THIS 1920s Victorian terrace in Sydney’s Woollahra is interior designer Olivia Giangrasso, the founder of Olivia Giangrasso Interiors. While the heritage property now reﬂects her signature style – contemporary yet unique interiors – the home wasn’t always this polished. When she acquired the tri-level terrace in 2019, it was tired, dated and in need of a refresh, but Olivia could see the potential for greatness in its bones, and fell in love with the grand six-metre frontage. ROMANCE “I love the scale and proportion of the terrace – the ceilings stand more than three metres high,” Olivia says. “This sense of grandeur is what originally attracted me to buying the home. The rooms are generous and have all the charm of a terrace, without feeling cramped or small.” Olivia utilised her 15 years of industry experience to oversee the redesign of the home, choosing a warm white and grey palette peppered with stone, marble and black to act as a stylish backdrop on which to display her art collection and treasured objects, while highlighting the original skirtings, cornices, ceiling roses and arches with high gloss paint. RECONCILE “This interior transformation was driven by me wanting to create a home that strongly reﬂects my own style and personality,” explains Olivia. “The continuation of the Carrara marble and black accents throughout are key to the refresh being a modern yet timeless improvement. These materials are uncomplicated and classic, and by repeating them the design feels cohesive, providing the home with a sense of balance and calm.” The home was renovated between January 2020 and January 2021. REINVIGORATE The big-ticket furniture pieces and architectural features are intentionally simple in design, to ensure the interiors could withstand the test of time. “I’m not a big believer in using brash materials or bright colours that could date – or I could tire of – over time, as it can be costly to change,” Olivia says. “I prefer to do it once and do it right, but by overlaying this effortless base with bold art and unique objects, the home is brought to life with sudden character – without overcrowding the space.” R

who lives here Interior designer Olivia Giangrasso, along with her husband Philip and daughter Sienna. @oliviagiangrasso | oliviagiangrasso.com A

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Living large Tongue and groove European oak flooring from Precision Flooring has been installed in the living area, along with a Carrara marble fireplace surround and Anna Charlesworth pendant light. A Gervasoni modular sofa, vintage cork coffee table from Belgium and an armchair are positioned on a Tappeti rug. Artwork by George Byrne hangs above the fireplace, with a piece by Henryk on the wall to the right of it. Serge Mouille floor lamp, Cult Design. Food stop Located off the outdoor deck and kitchen, the compact eating nook (opposite) features a custom Carrara marble table, Billiani ‘Doll’ dining chairs and a custom vase handmade by Michell Ceramics. Black and white wedding photos by Lauren Michelle hang on the rear wall. The floor tiles are original to the home. A

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3 ways to achieve an elegant interior

“Don’t overcomplicate your selection of materials,” Olivia suggests. “Especially when it comes to the bathroom.”

“Add art, knick-knacks or decorative objects to spaces to build character, but don’t rush to find the perfect pieces.”

“Invest in highquality furniture that will not only deliver on comfort, but quality and style,” Olivia says.

Mirror image An imposing artwork by Noah Taylor presides over the dining table and Cassina chairs in the dining room, while a mirror from The Framing Project reﬂects it. The pendant and black vase are from The Vault, with the Combiplex shelving sourced from Fred International. When it comes to choosing furnishings, Olivia suggests choosing investment pieces that will go the distance. Her top three picks are India Mahdavi, Achille Castiglioni and Serge Mouille. A

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FROM LEFT Rest assured A curved bouclé bedhead from McMullin & Co sets the tone in the main bedroom and is accompanied by a Bold side table from Domo and ‘Hargett’ buffet lamp from Laura Kincade. Clean break Brindabella Kitchens built the cabinetry in the bathroom, which features a Carrara marble benchtop from CDK Stone to match the wall tiles. Olivia chose Meir matte black tapware and a Caroma showerhead for the space, and Di Lorenzo floor tiles. Child’s play Wool carpet from Bremworth replaces timber flooring in daughter Sienna’s nursery, which features more cabinetry that’s been designed by Olivia and manufactured with a white polyurethane finish, mirror splashback and glossy handles by Brindabella Kitchens. Sitting Pretty An armchair, rug from Flokati Rugs and Studio ALM stool ensures Olivia has a cosy space to enjoy time with Sienna. Artwork, Rick Carlino. Pendant, Anna Charlesworth. Cot, Boori.

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The high life The attic on the third floor has been transformed into a second living area. Sisal flooring from Natural Floorcovering Centres warms up the space. A USM ‘Haller’ unit from Anibou stands along one side, while a Muji sofa and Hay side table from Cult fill another. Artwork, Sepideh Ilsley. Sheepskin ottoman, CCSS. Italian Murano vase, Tamsin Johnson.

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shop it! Take a considered approach with layers of textural whites 4 1

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still-life styling alice ierace

1 Classics Collection cushion in White with Navy fringe (45cm x 45cm), $245, Lucy Montgomery. 2 Oakleigh Home ‘Rukiye’ faux sheepskin floor rug in White (150cm x 80cm), $59.95, Temple & Webster. 3 ‘Zephyr’ triple alabaster pendant, $2035, Coco Republic. 4 Forme Bathroom Collection ‘Salma’ mirror, $339, Temple & Webster. 5 Fury 2017 artwork by Noah Taylor, $3800, Olsen. 6 Curved bouclé bedhead in Ivory, $1499 for queen, McMullin & Co. 7 ‘Don’t Leave Me’ table in White Powdercoated finish, $355, Hay. 8 Lismore Black Collection vase, $699 for 25cm, Waterford. 9 Visual Comfort ‘Hargett’ buffet light in Polished Nickel with Natural paper shade, $649, The Montauk Lighting Co. 10 Fogia ‘Combiplex’ 3 shelf combo, POA, Fred International. 11 Aura by Tracie luxury velvet bolster cushion in Jade, $69.95, Temple & Webster. 12 Flos ‘Snoopy’ lamp in Black, $2396, Living Edge. 13 ‘Miro’ dining table, $1999, Freedom. 14 ‘Madera’ planter by Papaya by Toast & Honey Studio, $95, Hard to Find. 15 ‘Vogue’ urn, $85 for small, Clo Studios. 16 ‘Coupe’ floor lamp, $199, Freedom. 17 ‘Bronte’ 3 seat sofa in White, $2499, Lounge Lovers.

Colours and ﬁnishes FROM LEFT Sora Carbone porcelain terrazzo-look tiles in Gloss (10x10cm), $149/m², Perini. Wall paint in Wild Goose, $135/4L, Porter’s Paints. Carrara honed tiles, (61x61cm), POA, Perini. Wash&Wear Interior paint in Lexicon, $85.90/4L, Dulux. real living

photography nick glimenakis styling charlotte sylvain

words laura barry

This Hamptons home delivers picturesque outlooks and an unexpected aesthetic influenced by Scandinavian design and a woodland location

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Warm hues A white colour palette is warmed up by the refurbished timber ﬂoors and ceiling panels, visible in the living, kitchen and dining area of this woodland home. An Article sofa and custom ottoman sit on a rug sourced from Etsy. The ‘Tanner’ armchairs are from Barnaby Lane and the side table is from Urban Outﬁtters. The ‘Vertigo’ pendant is by Petite Friture and the artwork is by Becky Plante. A real living

WHEN THE OWNERS of this holiday home in the Hamptons, New York, decided they wanted to renovate in early 2019, they went with the husband-and-wife team, interior designer Charlotte Sylvain and architect Shikhar Thakur, of Studio Fauve. While the property was structurally sound, the house was dated and the interiors were in need of a refresh. DREAM “The clients wanted to upgrade the design of the house for their personal use on the weekends and holidays, but also to rent it out, so the design had to be functional and resilient. They were looking for a bright and airy feel, a space that felt beachy without being too literal,” says Charlotte. “The job included refinishing the floors, painting the entire space, redoing the bathrooms and kitchen entirely, and picking new furniture and lighting for the whole space,” adds Shikhar. DESIGN As the house was located in a heavily wooded area with shingle-style houses that are mostly timber frame constructions, Charlotte and Shikhar chose to use different species of wood throughout the interior in reference to the location. A Scandinavian aesthetic enhances the woodland feel. “We opted to use different materials that provide warmth and texture while keeping the palette muted and light, such as tadelakt plaster and teak in the main bathroom, Douglas fir in the kitchen and Accoya wood in the guest bathroom,” says Charlotte. “In terms of architecture, we maintained the existing exterior of painted cladding and only added a larger picture window to the bathroom as a feature,” says Shikhar. DYNAMIC The existing floorplan was maintained as it featured already well-defined living, kitchen and dining zones. However, a built-in banquette was introduced as breakfast seating in the rear corner to connect the kitchen to the formal dining and living areas. The colour palette features light and earthy tones to accentuate the natural light pouring through the windows. “Rather than pick colours, we picked materials and aimed for the colours of any associated furniture and design elements to complement the materials,” says Charlotte. “We focused on keeping the design minimal, adding warmth and texture with natural tones in the construction and woodwork.” And, although the pandemic halted renovations on the property on two occasions and pushed the project outside of schedule, it ran smoothly and was completed in April 2021. “We love the indoor-outdoor feel of this space,” says Charlotte. R Custom cool The custom banquette designed to link the kitchen and dining areas has cushions from Bloomist. The wall sculpture is by Karen Tinney. The ‘Doline’ vase on the island and the ‘Prong’ fruit bowl are from SIN. The replica ‘Tulip’ table is from Rove Concepts and the ‘002’ dining chairs are from Ton.

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who lives here? David Melton and Chrissy DiNicola share this home with their Australian shepherd, Charlie. They engaged Studio Fauve to renovate their Hamptons holiday home. studiofauve.com | @studiofauve A

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Clean lines In the living area (above), the bench from Etsy and cushions from Bloomist and Smallable reference the timber tones. The artworks are by unknown artists. Double dining Two dining zones have been integrated in the kitchen and entertaining space (below), which showcases the original refurbished timber-panelled ceilings. The large timber ‘Alle’ table from Hem is paired with classic ‘C603’ woven dining chairs from Gestalt. The ‘Crane’ light is by Andrew Neyer. The wooden sculpture on the dining table is from Bloomist. Warm wood The kitchen cabinets (opposite) are made from recycled Douglas ﬁr. The rug from Etsy adds texture. The oven is from Café.

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Natural element In the kitchen, cabinetry built by Reform from recycled Douglas ﬁr complements the refurbished original ﬂoor and the ash timber Ercol ‘Originals’ bar stools. The ‘Annular’ pendant lights are from Woud. As well as the ‘Doline’ vase from SIN on the island, the ceramics on display are from Hawkins, Fort Standard, Clic and Leif. A

How to elevate a Scandinavian aesthetic

“Keep the material palette simple and minimal by only using a few key finishes,” says Charlotte. Inject some colour and texture through homewares instead.

Charlotte suggests using an open-plan floor layout to try to connect the living spaces to each other as much as possible for effortless flow.

“Consider using an exterior picturesque view as a defining design element in your space,” says Charlotte. A lovely view can act as art.

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FROM LEFT Striking symmetry In the main bathroom, the waterproof plaster vanity features a teak shelf to match the flooring. The mirror is custom, the tapware is from Kohler and the storage baskets are from The Basket Room. The wall lights are from RBW. Book nook A reading nook in the bedroom has a chair and side table from Urban Outfitters paired with the ‘Eaton Ivory Geometric’ rug from CB2. The art print is from The Poster Club. Elevated view In the main bathroom, the ‘Brooklyn’ bathtub from Wyndham Collection enjoys a woodland outlook and elevated position on teak timber flooring. The tapware is from Kohler and the pendant is from Ay Illuminate. A @reallivingmag

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style tip The texture of plush rugs, woven furniture and matte black hardware has a warming and grounding effect on a restrained interior scheme

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Light works Texture and timber play a key role in creating warmth in the bedroom. An Urban Outﬁtters bed/headboard is paired with a ‘Willy’ side table from Crate & Barrel. The lamp is from Ylighting, the bedding is from Brooklinen and Bloomist and the art print is from The Poster Club.

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shop it! Channel Scandi vibes with a neutral palette 4 1

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still-life styling andrea healy *Currency conversion correct at time of printing

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1 Petite Friture ‘Vertigo’ pendant in Black, $1468 for large, Finnish Design Shop. 2 ‘Annular’ pendant in White, $885* for large, Woud. 3 Cuyo ‘#2525’ rug (200cm x 253cm), $1190, Pampa. 4 ‘Tanner’ armchair in Rose Blush, $1090, Barnaby Lane. 5 ‘Conic’ side table in Black, $349, Early Settler. 6 Deconstructed No.31 art print (297mm x 420mm), from $72*, Atelier CPH. 7 ‘Prong’ bowl in Speckled, $90* for large, SIN. 8 ‘Montana’ cushion in Ivory, $86, L&M Home. 9 ‘Eva’ cushion, $86, L&M Home. 10 Atuto pale wood chain, $95* for large, Bloomist. 11 ‘Paper Moon’ table lamp No.2, POA, Minzuu. 12 Oyoy salt and pepper shakers in Natural and Brown, $98, Smallable. 13 ‘Elio’ modular sofa in Chalk, $8280, MCM House. 14 Inartisan ‘Kiaan’ double handle vase, $149, Hard to Find. 15 ‘Bronte’ tall rectangular basket, $298 for large, J’Jute. 16 ‘Nyla’ tribal shag rug in Cream and Gold (230cm x 160cm), $420, Miss Amara. 17 Ilve 90cm six gas burner freestanding cooker in White, $4799, Harvey Norman.

Colours and ﬁnishes FROM LEFT Custom kitchen door fronts in American Oak, POA, Doors & Drawers by Timbermill. Pure White quartz 1141 slab, from $600/m², Caesarstone. Danish White ﬂoorboards, from $121/m², Royal Oak Floors. Dulux Wash&Wear Low Sheen paint in Vivid White, $85.90/4L, Bunnings. real living

photography jem cresswell styling corina koch words andrea tomaz

When designer and maker Dani Dean took on a sentimental family project, both her creative compass and her heart were on the line

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Bold and beautiful The living area has neutral walls in Murobond Rope and light blonde floors in Voss from Woodcut. They create a crisp backdrop for Dani’s bright Roll Arm 2.0 sofa in Rose and blush/orange rug, both from Tow and Line. “I really like designing things that are bold, but I don’t want to live in an environment that’s overbearing,” says Dani. “The light walls and floors help define those loud bursts.” A real living

Green dream “My favourite room is the kitchen,” says Dani. “From day dot we knew it was going to be green, I wasn’t going to budge on that. But we had to try a lot of greens to find the right one. I really love this colour.” She chose Dulux Dinosaur in a matte finish for all the cabinetry, which was built by James Middleton. “He’s wonderful,” Dani says of his craftsmanship. The wavy cabinet handles from The Make Haus tie in with wiggles on the cabinetry (see following pages). The marble was sourced from Styled In Stone and Dani was drawn to its earthy quality. “It looked like a geographical landscape and the fact that it was green really just reconfirmed the kitchen’s direction and that it all tied together,” she says.

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homes DANI DEAN HAS KNOWN HER HOME on Sydney’s Northern Beaches forever, even though she only bought it six years ago. “It was my grandma’s house,” she says. “It’s been in my family since I was a little girl. Growing up, I spent weekends with my nan. She was extremely important to me. I had been in every nook of her house.” Because of this, Dani always had lots of design ideas for it. The 1970s red-brick home was originally “like a Brady Bunch house”, before Dani and her husband James embarked on a nine-month renovation. “We changed the exterior to black and opened up the inside – just a bit,” says Dani. “We did new floors, paint, new kitchen, bathroom, laundry and all our light fixtures.” BALANCING ACT The design was managed by Dani’s design studio, The Make Haus. “We treated it like any other job, in order to reduce the sensitivity of working on your own place,” she says. Still, being both designer and client was stressful. “I was the client from hell,” admits Dani with a laugh. “I drove myself nuts.” She wanted a green kitchen, but should she add scalloped edging to its cabinetry and wiggly lines on joinery in the kitchen, main bedroom and linen press? This caused much angst and rumination, but she eventually signed off on everything – and is glad she took a leap of designer faith. MEANINGFUL COLOURS In the dining area, green was revisited to make a deep connection with the kitchen. But in the living area, neutral walls were teamed with a wine-coloured sofa and orange rug. “It’s surprising,” says Dani, “but the contrasting colours work with the green kitchen and dining space.” The bathroom was the biggest design challenge, but Dani and James continued the home’s green story for consistency and chose chequerboard tiling which “felt right” to them. FAMILY TIES The couple preserved the existing floor plan and skipped big structural changes which would be costly and insensitive. The result is a new family home that’s still connected to its past. “It’s amazing,” says Dani. “Renovating has given me that new feeling of accomplishment. We’ve improved it so much but it still looks like the [her grandma’s] house.” R

who lives here? Dani Dean, interior designer and creative at The Make Haus, her husband James Dean, electrician and co-founder of The Ware Studio, and their sons, Dallas, 6, and Smith, 3. themakehaus.com.au | @themakehaus_ @the_ware_studio A

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3 top design tips from Dani

Thoughtfully repeating a key colour, pattern or texture throughout your home will elevate its design story. If there is a style you love, be brave and go with it.

If the budget is tight, you can still update your space. Start by painting walls and tired surfaces, replacing dated light fixtures.

Kids and nice design can co-exist. Choose tough flooring which can handle bikes and spillages. Also, consider a designated playroom if space allows.

Decisions, decisions Dani’s kitchen evolved via moodboards. Tumbled limestone tiles from Gather Co, Parisi tapware and that “geographical” marble stone from Styled In Stone all feature. The rangehood was tapered “to make it sexy”, she says. All cabinetry, designed by The Make Haus and manufactured by James Middleton, is bulkhead-free because “we wanted the kitchen to feel like an installed piece of furniture”. A

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Designer connections Tumbled limestone ﬂooring, hints of green and scalloped forms work together to echo the kitchen’s design elements, creating a cohesive story. Corrugated porcelain vase in White, Milly Dent. Living in Colour and Beaumaris Modernist books, Kinokuniya. Seeing green The reverence to green and cream continues in the dining area. Furnishings include a table and vintage chairs from La Tienda, art by Dani Dean for The Make Haus and an Atelier Slipper chair in Boucle Ivory (in the foreground) from Coco Republic. A

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FROM LEFT Scrubbing up A polka dot Begonia maculata ‘Wightii’ adds a living element to the bathroom. Parisi tapware, marble from Stone In Style, Turner Hastings basin. Virginia hand towel, Oliver Thom. Checkmate “We weren’t going to renovate the bathroom but ceiling termite damage changed things,” says Dani. There was much to-ing and fro-ing over the decision to create such a bold bathroom, but ultimately the dark green tiling and chequerboard style simply “felt like ‘us’. In the end, I decided, ‘Well, I’m a designer. And I just want chequerboard!’ ” says Dani, who used a marble/limestone tile mix from Josie Co and gunmetal Parisi tapware. Heritage body brush in Ash Wood, Oliver Thom. Sleeping beauty Overall, work in the bedrooms was minimal, however, Dani did splurge on the joinery manufactured by James Middleton. The wardrobe, designed by The Make Haus, features the same wiggle design present on the kitchen cabinets and linen press. Wave bedside table in Black Walnut, Tow and Line. Vintage Murano ‘Rostrato’ table lamp in Clear/Brass, Dezine. A

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style tip If your budget allows, invest in premium joinery. “It’s all really well done,” says Dani. “James and I keep saying, ‘We feel like we’re living in a hotel.’ We can’t believe we have something like this.”

real living

Perfect match A Sarah side chair in Rust from SND Interiors holds court, alongside wall art by Dani Dean for The Make Haus and a ﬂoor mirror created by Dani’s husband James Dean. “We are crafty,” says Dani with a smile. This peaceful bedroom feels both creative and deliberately uncomplicated.

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homes

shop it! Add dashes of colour to a natural scheme 1

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still-life styling alice ierace *currency conversion correct at time of writing

1 Ourea rafﬁa table lamp (46cm), $225, Few & Far. 2 Heavy linen pillowslip in Pine, $120 for set of 2, In Bed. 3 Cleo hand-carved wall sconce in Alabaster (25cm), $845, Coco Republic. 4 Scalloped jute rug in Green (2x3m), $1299, Tigmi Trading. 5 Purple Poppies A4 giclée print by Madelen Möllard, $66* for unframed, The Poster Club. 6 Aksel four-light pendant light in Brass/Clear (1x1.1m), $795, Beacon Lighting. 7 Corrugated porcelain vase (23cm), $260, Milly Dent. 8 Riley Checkered jute rug (2.4x3.3m), $865, Miss Amara. 9 Lifestyle Traders ‘Bleached Jayapura’ paulownia wood stool (47cm), $129, Temple & Webster. 10 OddBall bouclé cushion in Bone (27cm), $170, Odditi. 11 Roll Arm 2.0 fabric sofa in Rose (2.2m), from $8100, Tow and Line. 12 Jentl dry body brush, $24.95, Hard to Find. 13 Percy metal tiered candleholder (30x33cm), $179, McMullin & Co. 14 Ce’cile powder-coated steel stool in Ivoire (110cm), $990, Merci Maison. 15 Brave handle in Matt Black (128mm), $19.09, Momo Handles. 16 Living in Colour: Colour in Contemporary Interior Design book by Phaidon editors, $59.95, Phaidon.

Colours and ﬁnishes FROM LEFT Dulux Wash&Wear low sheen paint in Dinosaur, from $85.90 for 4L, Bunnings. Calacatta Verde honed marble mosaics (75x75mm sheet), POA, Josie Co. Jamila ﬂamed and tumbled limestone bricks (60x240mm), POA, Gather Co. Himalayan Onyx honed marble, $383.90 per sqm, Sydney Marble Slabs. real living

CLASSIC RETREAT Create a serene and sophisticated space where you can unwind. Start with a timeless sofa and style it your way with Freedom

a real living PROMOT ION

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STYLE RULES A space to relax is essential in any home. For a look that will withstand the seasons, take inspiration from Australia’s native palette and pair with soft textures and shapes.

COLOUR Natural colours immediately create a sense of calm. Opt for ivory, cream, soft greens and grey. SHAPE Create a sense of retreat by using soft edges and avoiding sharp corners. A gently curved armchair or a sofa with French seams is ideal. TEXTURE Using nature as inspiration, bring tactility into your room through considered fibres in throws, baskets and fabrics. Accentuate with fresh statement florals that add dimension through shape and texture.

SCAN TO SHOP the special real living curation at Freedom

Opposite page Salsie modular sofa, $2,399. Kobe cushion in Ivory, $69.95. Koi cushion in Natural, $59.95. Rohld table lamp, $349. Fira coffee table, $1,299. Plume vase, $79.95. Vivian bowl, $49.95. Whitehaven soy candle, $29.95. Avoca floor rug in Natural, $699. Image above Cobble occasional chair, $799. Belmont cushion in Mid Green, $59.95. Rohld table lamp,$349. Lorne basket in Natural/ White, $79.95. Luiza throw in Mid Green, $99.95. 1 Corte pendant in Natural, $499. 2 Gorge 3D wall art, $449. 3 Wanda floor lamp, $299. 4 Pumice oval vessel, $69.95. 5 Plateau dish, $49.95. 6 Provence cushion in Sand, $39.95. 7 Clam bowl, $69.95.

Style it your way at Freedom.com.au

Hot seat Up your style game with eye-catching hues and intriguing shapes. Kermit The Chair and ottoman, $560, Alpha Modern. Leather triangle shoulder bag in White, $3000, Prada. Turn the page to shop a selection of statement-making pieces inspired by fashion’s latest it-bags. A

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photography alana landsberry styling corina koch creative direction cathryn zhang

Fashion isn’t about following trends, it’s about embracing your individuality. Express yourself by making a statement with these hero pieces and accessories

shop

This page La Croix chaise in Ivory Boucle, $1270, Coco Republic. Jacquemus ‘Le Bambino Baguette’ bag, $815, My Chamelon. A

real living

making an impact A clever combination of shape, colour, texture and scale is essential to the design of both statement furniture and accessories. Ensure your choice balances all four elements.

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This page (clockwise from top left) Carimate dinner chair by Vico Magistretti, $2550, Tigmi Trading. Paradiso bag in Grass Green, $215, Poppy Lissman. The Puff armchair, $3500, Alpha Modern. Panelled tote in Black & Ivory, $1188, Rylan. Afra & Tobia Scarpa ‘Monk’ chair in Black Leather, $2800, Castorina & Co. Proenza Schouler ‘Mercer’ leather tote in Cuoio, $940 for large, The Iconic. Decade chair in Mustard, $980 for four, Bludot. Lapis small tote in Brandy, $599, Oroton. Opposite page Piedra chair, $620, Merci Maison. Sabot picnic bag in butler calfksin and wicker, $9375, Hermès. A

real living

This page Big Friendly single armchair, $4400, Doweljones. Puzzle napa calfskin hobo bag in Celestine Blue, $3500, Loewe. Opposite page Vitra ‘Wiggle’ side chair, $1915, Living Edge. Staud ‘Acute’ shoulder bag in Cream, $500, The Iconic.

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on the edge To ensure the longevity of any unique bag or chair, opt for an intriguing shape or texture in a classic hue. Alternatively, pair bright finishes with luxe materials. R

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photography dave wheeler | styling jess hansen | still life styling cathryn zhang

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A gallery-worthy feel can be yours in any kids’ room with colourful, quirky touches in all shapes and sizes 1 Satyric Scene 1960s charcoal drawing by Mino Maccari, $514.25 for unframed, 1st Dibs. 2 Eames ‘House Bird’ wooden ornament in Black Alder, $380, Living Edge. 3 Flensted ‘Fatamorgana/Mirage’ foil and wood mobile, POA, The Memo. 4 Striped velvet seat cushion in Red/Pink, $199 (60cm), House of Orange. 5 ‘Full of Heart’ lined notebook, $46.99 for A5, Papier. 6 Lucie Kaas ‘Paipa’ ceramic tube in Blue Fog, $89 for small, Designstuff. 7 &Tradition ‘Flowerpot VP9’ polycarbonate portable table lamp in Signal Green, $385, Cult Design. 8 ‘Cupid’s Arrow’ ink and watercolour cellulose-latex wallcovering by Marcel Dzama, POA, Kvadrat Maharam. 9 The Lacquer Company x Rita Konig ‘Belle Rives’ lacquer tray in Red, $274, Matchesfashion. 10 Toast & Honey Studio ‘Harper Arch’ bouclé bench seat in Cream, $724 (121cm), Hard to Find. 11 Mapoésie hand-printed wool rug in Green, $372 (150x80cm), Smallable. 12 Burvik birch veneer and powdercoated steel side table in Black, $45 (38cm), Ikea.

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photography dave wheeler | styling lucy montgomery

L U C Y M O N TG O M E R Y

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little treasures

Invite calm with nautical colours, fresh stripes, clean lines and natural materials that stand the test of time 1 101 Collective Nouns book by Jennifer Cossins, $18.99, Booktopia. 2 Banwood baby tricycle in Navy with padded leather and oak seat (suitable for ages 2 and up), $299, Designstuff. 3 Lola linen bedhead, $999 for king single, McMullin & Co. 4 Artek ‘N65’ birch children’s chair by Alvar Aalto (designed in 1935), POA, Anibou. 5 LMC ‘Petit Del Rio’ plaster lamp with Empire Belgian linen shade in Terracotta Love Hearts, $2000, Lucy Montgomery. 6 Stripe linen baby play mat (1.2m), $159.99, The Muse Edition. 7 Sonder cotton throw in Mustard (1.3x1.5m), $79.95, Freedom. 8 Lillagunga Classic swing in Oak + Beige with polypropylene rope (supports up to 60kg weight), $389, Designstuff. 9 LMC ‘Petite’ striped Belgian linen cushion in Blue (35x55cm), $320, Lucy Montgomery. 10 5mm Paper round beech wood ceramic wall coat hook with leather in ‘White Sand’ $40, Hard to Find. 11 Arabia ‘Moomin’ porcelain plate in Moominpappa/Dark Blue, $43, RoyalDesign.com. 12 Kaspar bedside table in Oak (41.6x59.3cm), $399, Freedom.

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photography chris pearce | still life styling andrea healy *currency conversion correct at time of writing

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blush crush

Keep it chic with warm rose hues and pastel accents for a space that’s sweet as much as it’s sophisticated 1 Lucine jute rug in Natural (1.22m), $360, Armadillo. 2 Stonewashed linen duvet set in Rose & Mulberry Gingham (cover and pillowslip), $230 for single, Of The Sun. 3 Children’s Tutti Fruiti Strawberry mirror in Natural (53cm), $159, The Family Love Tree. 4 Outdoor Kid’s recycled plastic table (55x75cm), $329, The Feelter. 5 Olli Ella ‘Wonder Wagon’ rattan pull-along wagon in Natural, $220, Designstuff. 6 Muskhane felt landscape wall hanging in Midday (70x90cm), $176, Smallable. 7 Speckle enamel salad bowl, $45, Kip & Co. 8 Abacus My First Gift abacus, $39.99, Adairs Kids. 9 EveEco Baby ‘Wheatstraw’ snack box duo in Berrybliss, $38, Hard to Find. 10 Latitude rattan cabinet in Natural (80x90cm), $695, The Family Love Tree. 11 Ton ‘Petit’ beech chair in Salmon Pink (63cm), $608*, Archiproducts.

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Yes, pleats Arturo Álvarez ‘Tempo Vivace’ pendant light, from $880, Mobilia.

Make a point Jacquemus ‘Les Mules Bagnu’ terry heels in Beige, $1050, Elle.

at home, Perth 1 Arrival Hall My go-to for Scandinavian homewares and furniture with a café. Founders Lisa and Clem Tay have created this stylish shop which is great for gifting. I want to buy everything! arrivalhall.com.au 2 Vintage Emporium I came across this amazing vintage furniture and clothing shop last year. I used to buy a lot of pre-loved things when I lived in London. I’m so glad I found this little gem in Perth. @vintageemporiumperth 3 Showroom–X Showroom–X in Claremont supports Australian designers and has great initiatives to help talents in the fashion, art and design industries. showroom-x.com 4 Mobilia For high-end and luxury furniture, this is a great place to go. mobilia.com.au 5 Elle My husband Jason introduced me to Elle as he knows the founder, Wendy Marshall. It carries some of my favourite international fashion brands like Jacquemus, Ganni and Toni Maticevski. elleonline.com.au

where I shop Grace Lam, fashion director/former senior fashion editor VOGUE China, reveals her favourite retail destinations

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shop Oh my darlin’… Clementine denim skirt in Black, $229, Nobody Denim x Showroom-X.

Seat of power Afternoon bouclé chair in Cream, $682* and Kipferl marble desk, $31,072*, Bohinc Studio.

photography jason capobianco (portrait and background prints), + @hartclaire_, HMU @francescapoggimakeup @vivienscreative | production @scotterprojects (nobody denim x showroom-x) *currency conversions correct at time of printing

Global vision Planet in Amber & Pink glass sculpture by Lena Bergström, $9110*, Vessel Gallery.

online 6 Lumio The original book lamp created by Max Gunawan. His new creation, Teno, is a chic speaker with light and no remote control. It’s a clever and forward-thinking design brand. hellolumio.com 7 Hula This Hong Kong-based sustainable platform sells pre-owned designer pieces for less. I’m a great supporter of sustainable fashion. Shop and also donate to charity, Big Like! thehula.com 8 Coconut Matter An eco-friendly beauty brand with cute packaging. Natural and vegan ingredients with no testing on animals. coconutmatter.com 9 Pangaia It brings colour to my wardrobe plus it uses innovative materials such as plants, biobased ﬁbres and recycled materials to create clothes for everyone. No green-washing here. pangaia.com 10 Circa As a former Londoner, I love this platform based in London. Circa was launched during the pandemic to help artists. It’s a platform with a purpose. circa.art

Lumio ‘Teno’ portable speaker in Arctic White, POA, Top 3 by Design.

Board meeting Cassina ‘Zig Zag’ timber chair, from $3380, Mobilia.

abroad 11 Restir This multi-brand store in Tokyo has cool brands like Sacai, Raf Simons, Le Ciel Bleu and Marine Serre, all under one roof. restir.com 12 Kapok Lifestyle, fashion and beauty, and there’s always something for everyone at this Hong Kong adventure. ka-pok.com 13 Virginia Antiques Notting Hill Gate in London was my home for many years. I’m a big fan of vintage fashion and Virginia Bates has beautiful pieces to die for. Make sure to call to make an appointment before you visit. 98 Portland Road, Holland Park, London W11 4LQ, +44 020 7727 9908 14 Vessel Gallery Located in London, founders Nadia Demetriou Ladas and Angel Monzon created a unique shop/gallery in Notting Hill which is a major destination for unique glassware and homeware lovers. Vessel often collaborates with established and emerging artists to create limited-edition products. It’s a must-visit in West London. vesselgallery.com 15 Bohinc Studio Lara Bohinc MBE is a former jewellery designer turned London-based furniture designer. Her designs are bold yet roman. bohincstudio.com R

Chain reaction For Art’s Sake ‘Wonder’ gold-plated bracelet, $165, Kapok.

No sweat Signature recycled cotton sweatshirt in Orchid Purple, $150, Pangaia.

Pot luck Bolia ‘Hour’ ﬂowerpot in Sand, $179, Arrival Hall.

Naked ambition Nude semi-matte natural lipstick, $37, Coconut Matter. real living

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Discover the best of home inspiration.

HOMESTOLOVE.COM.AU

HOME TOURS

RENOVATING

DECORATING

OUTDOOR & GARDENING

PETS

photography alana landsberry styling jono ﬂeming

In good company Create your dream living room from scratch with these insider style tips. Flip the page to ﬁnd out how to make your lounge room sing. A

T R E N D S

I D E A S

DECORATE

R O O M S

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photography alana landsberry styling jono fleming words elle lovelock @reallivingmag

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Decorating a whole living room from a blank space can be daunting, but with these simple steps, plus a few 60-second style tricks, you’ll have your space set up in no time

decorate

style tip When it comes to the big pieces like sofas and rugs, invest in timeless designs that will always work as your style evolves or you move house

Effortless chic from left Moalina curtains, $49/pair, Ikea. Walter vessel, $99, McMullin & Co. Treble Soft Breeze artwork by Chanel Sohier, $650. Ulrike lamp, $249, Freedom. Beginnings of Day Three artwork by Fleur Stevenson, $2000, Curatorial + Co. Favo cushion, $129.95, Eadie Lifestyle. Knox sofa in Miller Stone, $3299, Freedom. Christophe cushion in Sage, $95, Papaya. Avalene throw, $69.95, Papaya. Vista cushion, $89.95, Eadie Lifestyle. Christophe cushion in Grey, $89, Papaya. Luca Boho cushion in Slate, $129.95, Eadie Lifestyle. > real living

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60-second style stack books Give height to vases and lamps by placing a stack of beautiful books underneath.

lay some moss Elevate the appearance of your indoor plant or tree by laying moss or coconut fibre at the base of the plant for a more finished look.

anchor objects Lots of little decorative accessories can look messy, so group them on top of a tray or book to make them one single style moment.

light a candle Burn the wicks of any new candles to create a look that’s more stylish lived-in home than show room.

move your art Take one or two of your small artworks off the wall and position them in a vignette with a vase, candle or other homewares on a console or shelf.

buy some fruit Display fruit en masse in a decorative vessel like a footed bowl. Bonus points if you keep the leaves on!

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decorate

Start with key pieces such as a sofa, coffee table and rug. Measure your space and any furniture pieces you like to make sure they’ll fit before you buy. If you’re not sure of your style yet, go neutral in colour and classic in shape.

Light touch from left Suvira McDonald vase $950, The DEA Store. Cobble armchair, $699, Freedom. Favo cushion, $129.95, Eadie Lifestyle. Pearl sconce light, $495, Robert Gordon Interiors. And Said Eternity drawing by Darcy McCrae, $1300, Curatorial + Co. Rodney vessel, $139, McMullin & Co. Suvira McDonald tall vase, $465, The DEA Store. Admeta podium bowl, $59, Inartisan. Moalina curtains, $49/pair, Ikea. Onyx 6-light pendant, $549, Beacon Lighting. Ulrike lamps, $249 each, Freedom. Rubbleabra candle holder, $115, Curated Spaces. Walter vessel, $99, McMullin & Co. Treble Soft Breeze artwork by Chanel Sohier, $650. Knox sofa in Miller Stone, $3299, Freedom. Christophe cushions in Natural Stripe, $69, and Sage, $95, Papaya. Avalene throw, $69.95, Papaya. Vista cushion, $89.95, Eadie Lifestyle. Christophe cushion, $89, Papaya. Luca Boho cushion, $129.95, Eadie Lifestyle. Weave rug in Ivory, $2920 (270mm x 360mm), Hali Rugs. Malaki rug, $599 (160mm x 230mm) and Knox ottoman, $1400, Freedom. Ian Jones bowl, $990, The DEA Store. Curl Curl candle, $55, Black Blaze. Joan side table, $899, McMullin & Co. Jardan Editions x Simone Karras vessel, $280, Jardan. Rinka plate, $58, The DEA Store. Femme. Hoop vase, $200, Black Blaze. Roly Poly chair, $1570, Hub. Vecchio stool, $195, Papaya. Jilin terracotta pot, $645, Papaya. What to Remember When Waking painting by Morgan Stokes, $2200, Curatorial + Co. Cobra vase, $120, Black Blaze. #8 vase by Emily Belle Ellis, $289, The DEA Store. Audrey console, $749, McMullin & Co. Balim rug, $799, Freedom. >

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Accessorising comes next – that is, creating texture in a room. Not everything has to match, just make sure pieces come from the same tonal world. Choose different fabrics, materials and finishes. Use a mix of sizes and shapes. And try to keep cushions and objects in groupings at odd numbers – it just looks better.

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Lighting is how you create ambience and hero your decor. To create that inviting feel, layer lighting so it comes from different angles and sources – wall sconces, lamps and a (dimmable!) pendant over the coffee table. Like jewellery, choose something that will accent the overall look – it can be a statement piece.

decorate

Finally, florals, foliage and the flicker of a candle flame will bring any room to life. Like your accessories, mix and match textures, but stick to a complementary colour palette for a look that feels resolved. Here, the leaves of the tree, orange berries and white daisies all share a common element of small, repetitive detail.

style tip If you want a patterned rug, but are worried it will overwhelm the space, layer it over a larger plain one. This is also a great trick if the rug you love isn’t quite big enough – layer it over a larger carpet to anchor the room.

Lounge life above left Onyx pendant, $549, Beacon Lighting. Ulrike lamp, $249, Freedom. Knox sofa, $3299, Freedom. Joan table, $899, McMullin & Co. Jardan Editions x Simone Karras vessel, $280, Jardan. Rinka plate, $58, The DEA Store. Femme. Hoop vase, $200, Black Blaze. Vecchio stool, $195, Papaya. Flower power above top right Joan table, $899, McMullin & Co. Rinka plate, $58, The DEA Store. Jardan Editions x Simone Karras vessel, $280, Jardan. Weave rug, $2920, Hali Rugs. Malaki rug, $599, Freedom. Curated corner above right And Said Eternity drawing by Darcy McCrae, $1300, Curatorial + Co. Rodney vessel, $139, McMullin & Co. Suvira McDonald vase, $465, The DEA Store. Admeta bowl, $59, Inartisan. A la mode opposite Jilin terracotta pot, $645, Papaya. What to Remember When Waking painting by Morgan Stokes, $2200, Curatorial + Co. Audrey console, $749, McMullin & Co. Cobra vase, $120, Black Blaze. #8 vase by Emily Belle Ellis, $289, The DEA Store. Column tray, $159, Black Blaze. Sainte T candle, $69, Maison Balzac. Balim rug, $799, Freedom. A

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Heritage Heart The peaceful main bedroom features a snow white bedhead, Elias Mercantile bedspread, egg sculpture from Fourth St. The bedside table and bench are from Rachel Donath.

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photography martina gemmola styling beck simon words andrea tomaz

Interiors expert Rachel Donath’s carefully considered family home in Melbourne proves high-end decorating and kids absolutely can mix – and they should

advice

Family hub Interior designer Rachel Donath took an approach of calm minimalism to create her peaceful family kitchen and dining space. Soft curves abound, from the vintage dining table and ‘Grace’ dining chairs to the Murano polka-dot vase, all from Rachel Donath. Rug from Natural Floorcovering Centres. The Anna Charlesworth pendant and ‘Twister’ lamp from Sophie Davies create a wonderful ambience. A real living

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meet the designer Rachel Donath, furniture designer and interiors expert, lives here along with her husband, Michael, and children Toby, 12, Luca, 9, Hamish, 5 and Gracie, 3. racheldonath.com.au | @racheldonath_

INTERIORS EXPERT AND MUM of four Rachel Donath dares to do what many parents either fear or deem impossible. She decorates her home with – wait for it – ‘nice things’ such as irreplaceable art, valuable objects and furniture that isn’t kid-proof. She must be worried, right? No, actually, she seems confident and relaxed. “I just don’t see having kids and nice things as mutually exclusive,” says Rachel, “and I want to live in a grown-up space.” So how exactly does she marry ‘grown-up’ decorating with honouring her children’s identities and presence within the family home? Magically, is the answer. And with much beauty, colour and humour. After renovating her heritage double-fronted Edwardian property in East Caulfield during 2021 (with architectural firm Elements Of Home and building company JT Dodd), Rachel took on the decorating. She used zoning, colour, flow and careful art curation to create different personalised spaces that are both relaxing and ultra-functional for ‘big family’ living. Downstairs, the living, kitchen and dining areas are ‘adult’ and soothingly neutral, but upstairs the kids’ zones are colourful, surprising and utterly whimsical at heart.

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advice shop selectively

embrace art

Don’t buy too much or overfill all areas. There is beauty in neutrality and leaving space for ‘space’. When you do go shopping, be conscious of collecting and curating slowly. Be minimalistic and only choose quality items you truly love. Skip the fluoro-and-plastic decor stores altogether and instead opt for fun ‘grown-up’ shops that stock pieces you’d buy even if you didn’t have kids. When selecting toy storage for your home, look for adult shelves and baskets in neutral colours and textures you find appealing.

Artworks with a neutral palette are ideal for building a calm, soothing and ‘adult’ ambience in the living, dining and kitchen areas. But there’s always room in the home to celebrate colour. So spin the colour wheel in rumpus zones and kids’ bedrooms. Bright and surprising paintings and sculptures are a great way to captivate both kids and adults alike. Mix high design with fun elements to create whimsical spaces with universal appeal. If you’re searching for playful, one-off objects, Rachel suggests treasure hunting at auctions.

Zen zone Rachel wanted her kitchen and dining area to be relaxing, uncluttered and a calm area for the grown-ups. But with four kids also in residence, there was always going to be a lot of action and trafﬁc in this central spot. The integrated kitchen by Wynn Joinery features limestone benches from CDK Stone, installed by Stonelux. The cabinetry’s colour and proﬁle selections were made with YDM Design Studio. “We wanted a minimalistic kitchen with integrated everything to create a streamlined look that was timeless in design and also functional for a large family – with lots of storage”. Streamlined looks “The kids play upstairs a lot,” she says. “But, of course, they do also spend time down here too, because they naturally just want to be where mum and dad are. So sometimes toys and games do come down here too. But my kids always pack it all away when they’re done. They know that I like to put the house to bed properly at night time and put everything back together for the next day.” Focal point A neutral backdrop allows space for bold, tumbled Italian marble chequerboard tiling, safari chairs and a large artwork (artist unknown) to make their mark in the living zone. A

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Let it flow Rachel doesn’t subscribe to moodboards or ‘matchy-matchy’ decorating quests. Instead, she slowly collects pieces that she loves and intuitively builds a room’s decorative profile. Nevertheless, she says she’s always acutely aware of a room’s desired ambience and flow. “I’m very conscious of the energy and feel of a space, as well as its purpose,” says Rachel. “In this downstairs area, I wanted a very calm and relaxing environment because both my husband and I have busy lives. So I used soothing, natural colours and textures. Downstairs is calming, and upstairs is our high-energy space, where the kids spend a lot of time. We have the bright colours and fun artworks up there – which I also love. I am a bit of a big kid. But I wanted that separation of calm energy and high energy to be well defined.” A painting purchased in Bali (artist unknown) is teamed with plaster wall lights, safari chairs, marble side tables, floor lamp and ‘Wave’ fire screen, all from Rachel Donath. A sofa from King Living and Gubi mirror from Cult Design complete the picture.

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set house rules Sure, you can buy more durable, less expensive or kid-proof things. But instead, Rachel suggests teaching kids to treat high-value objects with care. “I think it’s good for them to appreciate art,” she says. “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with kids growing up in ‘adult’ living spaces.” So set rules early. Toys must be packed away, not abandoned. Good sofas aren’t trampolines. And karate kicks and ball games are outdoor pursuits.

create zones When decorating, keep lounge kitchen and dining spaces neutral and calm. Then let colour and fun flow freely through ‘high-energy’ places where kids play. Attics, secret nooks and pocket-sized sunrooms all make magical playrooms. If you have a small-but-valuable spot in your home, consider converting it into a mini play kingdom. Custom joinery, upholstery, special lighting and art will help take it to the next level. A

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playing up Maximising her home’s space was of paramount importance, so Rachel was thrilled when her architect (from Elements of Home) suggested they use ‘lost space’ near the roof to make a charming and ultra-functional play nook. “It was a stroke of genius on his part. I’m so glad we did it,” says Rachel. “This is the kids’ favourite place.” Rachel drew up a plan to include seating and book shelves. Builder JT Dodd did the joinery and a local upholsterer did the rest. “Every stage was very much custom down to the centimetre.”

FROM LEFT Bright idea Colour abounds in the kids’ hideaway rumpus, with cushions by Kip&Co and a Bob Jenyns sculpture, which Rachel found at auction. “I love it,” she says. “As soon as I saw it, I just knew I had to get it because I’d never find it again.” Pretty in pink Three-year-old Gracie’s room is Rachel’s favourite space. “I didn’t want to over-decorate it,” she says. “I’m quite a minimalist and I wanted every piece to be very special and to allow the room’s beautiful, old features to ‘sing’. Rachel was taken on an elaborate wild goose chase via French website Georges Store to get her hands on the delightful flower ceiling light. And she spent two weeks sanding and painting the grand doll’s house that came from Gumtree. “Decorating my little girl’s room while I was pregnant with her was a real labour of love.” On the mantlepiece sits an artwork from Castle and Things, a Coco Chanel book by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and a flower sculpture from denHolm. Bathing beauty Rachel wanted the main bathroom to feel calm and luxurious, so she chose dark and moody Italian porcelain tiles, custom joinery by Wynn Joinery and stone from Stonelux. The headless vintage sculpture, from Rachel Donath, is a playful, final touch. And it’s nice to know it’s not watching you while you use the facilities. Tween domain Fun furniture and art make 12-year-old Toby’s room pop, but Rachel never stepped foot inside a kids’ decor store to create this look. She sourced the corn stool from Third Drawer Down, the bedhead from Create Estate and the vintage painting of a wonderfully snooty dog from an auction. “I just love it,” says Rachel.

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real living loves

table the idea

Amp up the designer feel in your bedroom with one of these bedside beauties. 1 Wild Child side table, $390, Fenton & Fenton. 2 MRD Home ‘Vassili’ side table in Chalk, $574, Hard to Find. 3 Glass side table in Amber, $499, House of Orange. 4 ‘Atra’ side table, $159, Freedom. 5 ‘Tig’ side table, $1717, Jardan. real living

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THIS IS WHERE AMANDA LIVES LIVED Over 49,000 Australian women experience homelessness on any given day.* And it’s getting worse.

Most of them are invisible because they are couch surﬁng, sleeping in cars or tents, or staying with friends and family. Worse still, many women and children return to family violence because they have nowhere else to go. We need $7.6 billion in government funding to address this crisis. Join us in demanding a safer future for women.

Sign the petition at unhousedwomen.com.au

Scan to sign the petition

Flower power Do you love a fresh bunch of ﬂowers on your table? Why not try your hand at ﬂoral arranging with this easy guide by Joseph Massie. Turn the page to learn how to create your own arrangements. A

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words joseph massie

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PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM VAR. PAEONIFLORUM

Award-winning floral stylist Joseph Massie shares his personal tips for creating beautiful bouquets in his new book, The Flower School

peony poppy

Force of nature Whether you’re a lover of ﬂowers with a penchant for buying bouquets in bulk, or you simply wish to learn how to craft arrangements yourself, this step-by-step guide is all you need to get started on ﬁlling your home with beautiful blooms, and bridging the gap between indoors and out by bringing a little bit of nature inside – despite the cooler temperatures. A real living

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Steps 1 to 2

Step 3

Step 4

Steps 5 to 6

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the floral foam arrangement FOR MUCH OF THE NINETIES AND EARLY NOUGHTIES, massed flowers were all the rage. Tight domes of head-to-head blooms, usually all the same variety, too – masses of white ‘Avalanche’ roses within a vase, or tight posies of pristine calla lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica ‘Colombe de la Paix’) for stylish brides to hold walking down the aisle. We rebelled from 2010 onwards – there was a looser, more romantic style afoot; the more haphazard, the better. Today, I’m seeing a certain creativity within floral design, one not satisfied with following the rules of tight domes, but also one hoping for something more streamlined than messy handfuls of weeds. My experiments with form have led me to a true appreciation of materials that have dynamic forms, either in stem, bloom or both. One such bloom is the incredible Papaver somniferum var. paeoniflorum, commonly known as peony poppies. Available for just a few weeks in June, their appearance is a highlight of the garden calendar; an armful of them a dashing swathe of endless papery ruffles, and solid, linear stems. While mindblowingly beautiful, it’s worth noting that peony poppies have heavy stems and require a lot of support, especially if you wish to arrange them dynamically in a smaller vase to really emphasise this fabulous flower. For this design, I’ve opted to work with the natural floral foam technique. Working with natural floral foam can be incredibly satisfying, as generally flower stems will stand firm in the foam. If I’d selected a different vessel I might have opted to use the chicken wire technique instead – but chicken wire allows for a certain freedom to your stems whereas foam holds fast, which is perfect should you have a complex or particularly specific form in mind, as with this project. A

MATERIALS

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Vase of your choice One to two bricks of natural ﬂoral foam Anchor tape Floristry knife

1 Cut a brick of natural ﬂoral foam to size, soak, and secure within your container. 2 Begin by placing two large poppy blooms quite low within the vase, beginning to cover the foam with blooms. Ensure a large, focal bloom is placed ever so slightly off-centre – this will be your focal area within the design. Next, place a bloom quite high within the arrangement – also off-centre. 3 Place the blooms in an almost linear fashion, arranging the stems as they would grow naturally in the wild. In the soil, poppies grow vertically, with much willpower, with only the odd dispensation granted for a wild, curving stem. In this design, I want to capture

FLOWERS 15 stems of peony poppy (Papaver paeoniﬂorum), or another bold, similarly charismatic ﬂower

the essence of how the poppies naturally grow, ensuring that we’re enhancing – and not overpowering – their natural beauty. 4 Take a few of the poppy seed heads and smaller blooms (if available) and add them into the design, again allowing their stems to mimic their natural behaviour. If a stem is straight and tall, arrange it so – equally if a stem has some curves, showcase the curves within the design. Continue to add blooms stem by stem, and keep the stems parallel as you design. 5 Add another poppy ﬂower to the left of your focal area, but maybe just ever-so-slightly higher. This bloom will complete your three

key focal areas. From here, we can embellish the form we’ve created through the positioning of these placements. Continue to add poppy blooms, working them into the linear form until the arrangement feels full; you’ll know when you reach this stage as adding further blooms into the vase would look cluttered. We don’t want to overcrowd the blooms – we want the lines of the stems to shine through. Finally, take a few excess poppy leaves and insert into the natural ﬂoral foam right at the rim of the vase to cover any remaining foam that might be on show. 6 Fill the vase nearly to the brim with fresh water. Enjoy.

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the hallway flowers I’M SUCH A BELIEVER THAT GREAT DESIGN starts with a decent amount of clarity about what you actually intend to make. Sure, leave space for spontaneity, for joy, for creativity, but always start with the end in mind – especially if it’s something that might be a little difﬁcult. The design process is a balancing act in that way. Yes, there might be rules, suggestions or parameters, but I also want you to Make. It. Beautiful. I want you to make things that excite you creatively; things that are maybe unexpected but authentic to you. Design can be joyfully frustrating, and a good test of one’s creativity is to design within tricky spaces, such as hallways. Hallways can be awkward spaces to design for as we often have plenty of height into which we can arrange, but the footprint offered can often be quite limited. When designing for such spaces, select vessels that are slim, but sturdy and well-balanced so they can hold a fair amount of water. Cylinder vases are always great options, as is any chunky, solid vase. R

MATERIALS

INSTRUCTIONS

A collection of suitable, stylish vases

1 Take a number of clean vases and ﬁll each two-thirds full with fresh water. 2 Begin by arranging a few stems of Ammi majus into the vases, keeping them a little lower in the vase at ﬁrst. When you start out, the stems may move a little as you design, but persevere! The more

FLOWERS About 20 stems of Ammi majus

Steps 1 to 2

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stems you add into the design, the more they will stay where you want them to. 3 Add in more stems, building out the arrangement by placing the stems higher and towards the outer edges of the design. Your design will almost certainly be front-facing, but be sure to arrange some stems

Steps 3 to 4

towards the sides, too, allowing for a pleasant view from 270 degrees. 4 As you are designing, step back and view your composition several times to gain perspective on your arrangement in relation to the space it holds. View it from the front, head on, and from both sides. Make any ﬁnal amendments as needed. Enjoy.

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Passion project This is an edited extract from The Flower School: The Principles and Pleasures of Good Flowers by Joseph Massie, $55, Hardie Grant Books.

AMMI MAJUS Queen Anne’s lace

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Berry good Whether you’re cooking for one or for many, the joy of turning fresh ingredients into a sumptuous homemade cake can’t be beat. Turn the page for sweet treat cake recipes. A

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photography benito martin styling jessica hanson

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photography benito martin + amelia stanwix

styling jessica hanson + beck simon

Winter is the perfect time to treat yourself and your loved ones to a freshly baked cake: the ideal comfort food for the cold

photography amelia stanwix

eat

toasted coconut & vanilla cake

Piece of cake There’s nothing like a freshly baked cake straight out of the oven to make the mouth water and your whole home smell amazing. Lay the table with your favourite linens to embrace the ritual of gathering over food and make a meal to remember A

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ASHLEY ALEXANDER’S TOASTED COCONUT & VANILLA CAKE by Ashley Alexander of Gather & Feast Makes 1 23cm round cake Prep + cooking time 70 mins ½ tsp sea salt 1 cup (195g) thick unsweetened coconut yoghurt FROSTING 375g cream cheese 60g icing sugar 2 tbs vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste zest of 1 lemon ½ cup coconut ﬂakes, toasted, for sprinkling on top

CAKE 1 Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (fan forced). 2 Grease and line a 23cm (9 inch) round springform cake tin. In a large mixing bowl whisk together the olive oil, sugar, vanilla, and eggs until smooth. Add the ﬂour, coconut, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and yoghurt, and gently fold to combine. Pour the mixture into the pre-lined tin. 3 Bake at 180°C/350°F for 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing from the tin and placing onto a serving plate. You can serve the cake warm dusted with icing sugar OR allow the cake to cool completely and frost with the vanilla cream cheese frosting. If frosting, dollop the frosting into the middle of the cake and using ‘swooshing’ motions with the back of a spoon, spread the frosting to the edges of the cake. Sprinkle with toasted coconut ﬂakes and serve. VANILLA CREAM CHEESE FROSTING 4 Add the cream cheese, vanilla, icing sugar, and lemon zest, to a stand mixer with the paddle attachment (or you can use hand beaters or a spatula in a medium-sized mixing bowl). Beat the ingredients until super smooth. Set aside until ready to use. NOTE Store the cake in the fridge.

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photography amelia stanwix styling beck simon

CAKE 1 cup (190g / 250ml) extra virgin olive oil 1½ cups (300g) raw sugar 2 tbs (15g) vanilla bean paste or extract 3 eggs 2 cups (280g) plain ﬂour 1 cup (60g) shredded coconut, toasted 1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp bi-carb soda

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KATHERINE SABBATH’S LAYERED STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE Serves 10 This Strawberry Shortcake is delightfully crumbly, topped with freshly whipped vanilla bean cream, and juicy marinated strawberries.with a good splash of cold cream.

photography benito martin styling jessica hanson

BERRIES 2 punnets (500g) strawberries (quartered) 2 tbsp icing sugar mixture (confectioner’s sugar) 1 tablespoon lemon juice SHORTCAKE 250g (2 cups) all-purpose ﬂour 1 tbsp baking powder ¼ tsp baking soda

How sweet it is Find these, and more delicious cake recipes as well as savoury recipes in Put On A Spread by Bed Threads, $50.

80g (f) cup caster sugar Pinch sea salt ﬂakes 500ml (2 cups) cream WHIPPED CREAM 500ml (2 cups) thickened cream (very cold) 50g (¼) cup icing sugar mixture (confectioner’s sugar) 1 tsp vanilla bean paste

CAKE 1 Preheat the oven to 170°C (350°F) fan-forced. Grease and line 3 x 6-inch cake pans with non-stick baking paper. 2 In a bowl add the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice and gently stir to combine. Set aside. The sugar and lemon juice will help bring out the natural juices in the strawberries and create a light sauce. 3 In a separate bowl sift together the ﬂour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Add the cream and stir to combine. The mixture will be very sticky! Divide mixture into cake pans (grease your spoon or spatula with cooking oil spray to prevent the batter from sticking to it during this step) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops of cakes are golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and place pans on cooling rack to cool completely. WHIPPED CREAM 4 Beat the cold whipped cream until soft peaks form. Add icing sugar and vanilla, and beat for another 1-2 minutes. 5 Once the cakes have cooled, place a large dollop of whipped cream onto the bottom layer of the cake. Spread gently to the outer edges, and top with the strawberry mixture. Repeat with the remaining two layers, dusting with extra icing sugar mixture if desired. R

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a real living PROMOT ION

STUFF This month’s round-up of super-duper products for your home and lifestyle

FIRST ROW Choices Flooring As the mercury drops, add warmth and personality to your space by rolling out a rug. See hundreds of designs in your own home with RoomView, our online room visualiser. www.choicesflooring.com.au Tuiss Blinds Online The Bijou Linen S-fold curtain features a beautifully textured fabric, with light filtering or blockout lining. It comes complete with a track for easy DIY installation. From $85. blindsonline.com.au Naleon Purchase any Naleon product during June or July for your chance to win 1 of 40 Naleon BT Jukeboxes valued at $395. naleon.com.au SECOND ROW Wynstan You might know shutters help insulate the home – but did you know you can customise the shape and colour of your shutters with Wynstan? Get a free measure and quote to explore more! wynstan.com.au Iittala Teema showcases multifunctional, high quality and timeless pieces that last for generations. The iconic Teema 300mL mug is now available in a charming vintage blue, which you can pair with white and yellow Teema to create new combinations. RRP $24.95. iittala.com.au Harvey Norman Whether you’re cooking for a large family, throwing a dinner party or preparing freezer meals, Belling’s Richmond Deluxe Dual Fuel Range Cooker offers substantial room and flexibility. With a generous cooking capacity and multiple functions, this four-door freestanding oven is a versatile and welcome addition to any kitchen. harveynorman.com.au BOTTOM ROW Harvey Norman The Beautyrest Black Medici Medium mattress offers high-tech support without compromising comfort. Together, the cushioning layers of Dreamfoam and a Triple Helix Micro Coil system give you the ultimate sleep indulgence. harveynorman.com.au RSL Art Union You could win three stylish apartments – one each in Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast. One $5 ticket is all it takes to win. T&Cs apply. rslartunion.com.au/Draw396 Freedom Hand-crafted from solid mango wood by skilled artisans, the Grande coffee table’s curved sides sit atop a square base structure, creating a striking form as the living room centrepiece. RRP $999. freedom.com.au

Roxburgh House and Scotch College in the heart of Hobart date back to 1880 and have been transformed into The Rox apartments for residential and luxury accommodation. Restful beds made up with ﬂawless French linen are only part of the boutique offering. Flip the page and dive right in. A

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photography adam gibson styling tess newman-morris words bron bates

With locally sourced artisan pieces and inviting furnishings in autumnal hues, The Rox apartments have been tastefully realised by Tess Newman-Morris

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Centre of calm Soothing neutrals and natural materials form the base of the decor in The Rox’s four boutique apartments, located in two buildings on Hobart’s Elizabeth Street. Stylist and decorator Tess Newman-Morris chose items that include pieces sourced from local Tasmanian furniture makers and potters to complete the rooms with an air of comfortable luxury. A real living

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THERE’S A NEW HOTSPOT IN HOBART and The Rox boutique hotel is right in the centre of it. Attracting creatives and students alike, as well as sport-themed restaurants, cafes, sophisticated wine bars and a brewery, MidTown has become the new destination for those in the know. Perched high above Elizabeth Street, in a stunning new curved corner building designed by Core Collective architects, and in the refurbished historic Scotch College building next door, you will find The Rox’s boutique stays. The Rox is owned by local resident Mary Brownell, who invested her passion for heritage accommodation into the project, transforming four apartments into beautifully appointed homes-away-from-home. Guests can choose from The Rox Penthouse and The Rox Apartment in the new corner building, or The Elizabeth and The Alexander Apartments in the Scotch. Tastefully realised by interior stylist and decorator Tess Newman-Morris, features include exposed brickwork complemented by warm natural timbers, and sleek white finishes in the kitchens and bathrooms. Rooms in each of the apartments boast soft furnishings in earthy neutrals, not to mention French linen bedding from I Love Linen, providing guests with a comfortable base in among all the delights that MidTown Hobart and its surrounds have to offer. Each apartment is fully self-contained, but if cooking fails to appeal, room service at The Rox is luxuriously provided by Sonny restaurant, a nearby walk-in-only destination in its own right. R Style wise Thoughtful furnishings and decor, including pottery by Tasmanian artists, complete The Rox’s sophisticated and inviting boutique accommodation. Restore and renew Included in the restoration was a rediscovery of the original wide, butt-jointed timber floorboards in the Scotch College building that dates back to 1880. New windows were given timber framing and sandstone lintels and brick corbels were restored to their former glory.

4 2 . 8 8 2 6 ° S , 14 7. 3 2 5 7 ° E

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shop it Recreate the warm, pared-back vibe of The Rox with pieces in earthy neutrals 4

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1 Daisy terracotta table lamp (includes linen lampshade), $429, McMullin & Co. 2 Nova cotton cushion in Tan (50cm), $86, L&M Home. 3 Pierré side table, $975, Sarah Ellison. 4 River jute rug in Natural & Indigo (2x3m), $1690, Armadillo. 5 Propeller Droop pendant light in Tasmanian eucalypt, $1090, Duncan Meerding. 6 Thea stoneware vases, $99 for small, $159 for large, Papaya.

need to know How much? Apartments start from $310 per night. How to get there The Rox is a 20-minute drive from Hobart airport. Good to know Room service is available from ThursdaySunday from the local Italian walk-in-only wine bar, Sonny. For more info theroxhobart.com

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the end

full stop We get personal with aesthetics expert, Dr Barbara Sturm. A few words from real living and she fills in the rest… THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON MY WORK HAVE BEEN... MY GRANDMA, WHO WAS A PHARMACIST, AND MY MOTHER, WHO WAS A CHEMIST – I LEARNT A LOT ABOUT HERBAL MEDICINE AND INGREDIENT SCIENCE FROM THEM WHEN I WAS GROWING UP. MY GRANDMA USED TO MIX EVERYTHING AND MAKE MEDICINE FOR US WHEN WE NEEDED IT. MY PERSONAL APPROACH TO SKINCARE IS... ABOUT COMBATTING INFLAMMATION. IT’S THE ROOT CAUSE OF MUCH OF THE BODY’S AND SKIN’S DYSFUNCTION AND DISEASE. INFLAMMATORY INFLUENCES ARE EVERYWHERE – EVERYTHING WE INGEST OR TOUCH, INCLUDING THE AIR AND THE WATER, CONTAINS INFLAMMATORY TRIGGERS. WE NEED TO REDUCE THE INFLAMMATORY INFLUENCES BOTH EXTERNALLY AND INTERNALLY. THE MOST COMMON MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WITH THEIR SKINCARE IS... ZIGZAGGING IN BETWEEN PRODUCTS AND BRANDS. WHEN YOU SELF-CURATE YOUR SKINCARE, THE INGREDIENTS MAY WORK AT CROSS-PURPOSES. THE MUST-HAVE SKINCARE PRODUCT FOR ALL AGES IS... A HYDRATING FACE CREAM THAT DOES NOT IRRITATE THE SKIN. FOR ANY AGE I’D RECOMMEND MY FACE CREAM.

MY GO-TO OUTFIT IS... DEFINITELY A WHITE T-SHIRT AND JEANS, BUT I LIKE TO WEAR NICE JEWELLERY WITH IT, ALONG WITH A COOL PURSE AND STYLISH SHOES. I LIKE TO BE COMFORTABLE WHILE ALSO FEELING FEMININE AND BEAUTIFUL. MY INTERIORS STYLE IS... ALL ABOUT COLOUR AND PATTERN, WHILE KEEPING THINGS MODERN AND LIGHT. I LOVE VINTAGE FINDS AND I’M A BIG FAN OF FLEA MARKETS. I DON’T REALLY FOLLOW ANY RULES. I CHOOSE THINGS I LOVE AND SOMEHOW IT ALL WORKS. MY FAVOURITE PART OF MY HOME IS... MY SAUNA. IT’S A TREMENDOUS TOOL FOR THE SKIN AND FOR OVERALL HEALTH AND WELLBEING, PLUS IT JUST FEELS GREAT. HAVING SAUNAS HAS BEEN CLINICALLY SHOWN TO IMPROVE SKIN-BARRIER FUNCTION, REGULATE SEBUM FLOW AND IMPROVE CARDIOVASCULAR AND MUSCULAR HEALTH, AND THERE ARE INTERESTING CLINICAL STUDIES ABOUT ITS POSITIVE EFFECT ON HEALTH. I BUILT ONE IN MY BATHROOM IN DUSSELDORF AND I LOVE IT.

From left Dr. Barbara Sturm Lip Balm, $79, Super Anti-Aging Face Cream, $438 for 50ml, and Hyaluronic Serum, $449 for 30ml, all available at MECCA. @reallivingmag

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photography nick haddow + courtesy of mecca

“When I began my work, I originally set out to create a patients-only skincare regimen built around anti-inﬂammatory ingredient science and the result was my Dr. Barbara Sturm range. The Microbiotic Collection is inspired by my series, Skin School, and my daughter Charly’s own skin struggles.” @drbarbarasturm

THE BEST DIET FOR MY SKIN INCLUDES... AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET THAT IS FULL OF FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES, WHOLEGRAINS, LEAN PROTEIN AND HEALTHY FATS TO HELP BRING ABOUT VISIBLE SKIN IMPROVEMENTS. TOMATOES CONTAIN AN ANTIOXIDANT CALLED LYCOPENE, WHICH BOOSTS CIRCULATION AND PROTECTS BLOOD VESSELS. BEETROOT, BLUEBERRIES AND WATERMELON CONTAIN USEFUL ANTIOXIDANTS, TOO.

Carefully considered contrast. Whether it’s subtly blending in with the environment or combining contrasting materials and textures, COLORBOND steel offers beautifully understated yet striking impact. From the calming tones of Shale Grey™ to the deep elegance of Monument , COLORBOND steel can help create a more dramatic design statement for any style of home. Visit COLORBOND.COM or call 1800 022 999

Croydon House, NSW, by Ben Giles Architect. Photography by Katherine Lu. The COLORBOND steel colour swatch represents actual product colour as accurately as possible. However, we recommend checking your chosen colour against an actual sample of the product before purchasing. COLORBOND , the BlueScope brand mark and colour names are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. TM colour names are trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. 2021 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.