Ghjuijh

AU S T R A L I A N

FANTASY ISLANDS: THE ULTIMATE KITCHEN HERO

I N 30 CR + P BA ED AG TH IB ES RO LY OF OMCH S IC SHINING LIGHTS

Beautiful ways to illuminate your home

ONE-POT WONDERS

Gourmet meals for the family

GOT IT COVERED!

Your complete guide to custom upholstery

MAGIC CARPETS

Plush new rugs for winter floors p35

Effortless INTERIORS

SET THE SCENE FOR COSY WINTER DAYS INDOORS WITH CUSHIONS, THROWS AND AMBIENT LIGHTING

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AUCKLAND

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JASPER AUSTRALIA’S MOST AWARDED SOFA Experience the pinnacle of Australian design. The multi-award-winning Jasper incorporates five decades of design expertise to deliver unsurpassed luxury and lasting personal comfort.

JUNE

contents

FAMILY JEWEL

page 48

COVER STORIES 36 42 122 128 132 150 159

Magic carpets Cosy new rugs for winter floors Effortless interiors Set the scene for cosy winter days indoors with cushions, throws and ambient lighting Shining lights Beautiful ways to illuminate your home Fantasy islands The ultimate kitchen hero Got it covered! Your complete guide to custom upholstery One-pot wonders Gourmet meals for the family 30+ pages of incredibly chic bathrooms

BEAUTIFUL STYLE 17 Collection Adairs’ winter range is special to its core 18 In the know What’s hot in design inspiration and in stores 20 Creative collection Artist Mitchell English’s passion for work, play and beachside living has never been stronger

BEAUTIFUL SHOPPING 36 Home comfort Rug up for winter and keep your feet toasty-warm 42 Top 10: Frill seekers Cushions with an edge in more ways than one 44 Beauty: Bright eyes Puffiness, wrinkles and dark circles sorted!

BEAUTIFUL HOMES 48 Family jewel It took more than a decade and multiple renovations 60 70 80

150 STRESS RELIEF

but this Sydney family finally has their slice of paradise Bright delight Glorious green is one of the many colours in a home that’s every bit as lively as the family of seven who live there Open house A simple paint job on a century-old cottage becomes so much more for a creative and hands-on couple in South Africa Country manner When it was time to leave the city, this family headed for the NSW Southern Highlands and a brilliant rebuild

BEAUTIFUL HAMPTONS HOMES 102 Soft touch First-hand knowledge of Hamptons style, and a deep love of it, helps bring US east coast class to bayside Melbourne 112 Coastal Hamptons Interior designer Natalee Bowen explains how to adapt a prized Hamptons look for life Down Under

BEAUTIFUL GARDENS 116 Bijou beauty Small garden spaces can be the most eye-catching,

122 IN THE SPOTLIGHT

128 ISLAND LIFE

as this landscaped masterpiece in suburban Melbourne proves

BEAUTIFUL DESIGN 122 The good lighting guide: Lighthouse Flick the switch on an exciting new world of lighting options and opportunities 128 Kitchens: Fantasy islands Make your island a hot destination 134 Upholstery handbook: Cover story Whether your furniture is old or new, dress it up with unique upholstery 144 Style on tap Discover what’s cooking with new kitchen finds

BEAUTIFUL FOOD 150 No pressure Delicious, easy-to-prepare pressure-cooker recipes

REGULAR FEATURES 9 10 12 186

Ed’s letter HB editor-in-chief Elle’s secret to effortless interiors Connect What’s happening in the world of Home Beautiful Staff Who we are, where to find us and our Privacy Notice Unsung icons: Outdoor tiles & crazy paving This ‘look-at-me’ feature of the past has become a green feature of the present

Beautiful BATHROOMS 160 Coastal retreat A view to thrill in a seaside bathroom 162 Fresh & modern Goodbye beige, hello black and marble 166 Green state Colour brings a terrace bathroom to life (left) 168 Marble marvel Wall-to-wall wow in an opulent ensuite 172 Elegant simplicity This bespoke bathroom is extra-special 174 Federation fancy It was old but is now a bold head-turner 178 Colour wash Timeless finishes keep a family bathroom on-trend

BEAUTIFUL FABRIC OF THE MONTH Peonia Velvet in Midnight, Mokum

EDITOR’S LETTER

PHOTOGRAPHY (PORTRAIT) ALANA LANDSBERRY

Easy does it What does an ‘effortless interior’ look like to you? Is it a room that is perfectly organised and therefore effortless to live in? Or is it a space layered with treasured, collected pieces, a look that has evolved over time. For me, it’s a blend of both. I like my home to be organised, but I love being surrounded by the things I’ve carefully chosen and lovingly styled over the years. My one piece of advice for a truly effortless interior is to include an element of decorative tension. That is, a piece of furniture, a lampshade, a paint colour or artwork that jars with the rest of the room – think an antique in a contemporary space, or a pop of colour or flash of pattern in a neutral scheme. This trick will make even the most matchy-matchy of rooms feel a little looser and more comfortable to be in. And the wild thing is, it always works.

Now we’re in June and winter is officially here, it’s time to turn our attention to creating cocooning spaces that we can retreat into for a bit of solitude or to spend time with loved ones. I can’t think of a better way to add instant cosiness than with a beautiful plush rug and from page 36, you’ll find our round-up of the best floor coverings. Flip further down to page 122 to read our good lighting guide and learn how to create the perfect ambience in every room. A few more pages on, our handbook on upholstery is a must-read for anyone looking to purchase a new sofa, ottoman or bedhead. Achieving a bespoke look is easier than you think.

Over in the kitchen we’re dreaming of fantasy islands, from material and colour choices to all the design details you could possibly want on this high-traffic hub of the home: storage, towel rails, seating – the lot.

As for the bathroom, we have over 30 pages of beautiful bathing spaces for you to pore over, complete with design tips, source books and shopping recommendations so you can get the look at your place.

I hope you’ve had a lovely start to the chilly season, and may this issue bring all the inspiration you need to create your own effortless interior.

ELLE LOVELOCK, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Get in touch with me on Instagram @ellelovelock

COVER LOOK A LUXURIOUS TARTAN THROW AND PRETTY PATTERNED CUSHIONS ELEVATE THIS FAMILYREADY MODULAR SOFA, AS DOES THE BUTTONED OTTOMAN DRESSED WITH PRETTY PURPLE FLOWERS. MOVIE NIGHT, ANYONE? Photography: Maree Homer Styling: Kayla Gex

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THE DAILY HOME EDIT

MEET THE HB TEAM

CORINA KOCH, STYLIST

10

MOST LOVED: INSTAGRAM THIS BREATHTAKING ENTRANCE IS A TASTE OF THE BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS TUCKED AWAY INSIDE THIS STUNNING HAMPTONS HOME IN QUEENSLAND. IT’S NOT SURPRISING THIS WAS ONE OF THE MOST-LIKED POSTS ON THE @HOMEBEAUTIFUL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT THIS MONTH. DISCOVER MORE ONLINE AT HOMESTOLOVE.COM.AU/HOME-BEAUTIFUL.

WHETHER YOU’RE A HOME COOK WHO ENJOYS PULLING TOGETHER A DELICIOUS MEAL OR AN AVID BAKER, THESE ACCOUNTS ARE SURE TO INFLUENCE AND INSPIRE YOUR NEXT CULINARY CREATIONS.

TI L LY PA MM E N T, CO O K @T ILLYS_ TAB LE

HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU

SK YE M C ALPINE, AUTH OR @SKYEMCALPINE

SO PHI E H AN SE N, W RI T ER @LOCALLOVELY

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

PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP RIGHT) LOUISE ROCHE STYLING (TOP RIGHT) KYLIE JACKES

CULINARY PLEASURE

How did you get your start in magazines?

“Around eight years ago, I applied for work experience at an interior design magazine, and after six long months of waiting I was given a start date.

I worked on a range of tasks, but without a doubt the studio time was my favourite. It was laborious and fast-paced but completely exciting and everything I’d dreamed of. When my work experience ended, the stylist asked me to come back to assist her.”

What’s your favourite section of HB? “Very predictable, but my favourite section is the decorating pages!”

What are your favourite types of shoots to style?

“Set builds. To conceptualise a story and turn it into a tangible space by physically building it is an incredible – and addictive – experience.”

How would you describe your personal interior style? “Classic-contemporary with a twist. My home is mostly neutrals, but the pieces themselves are unique with a lot of personality.”

If you could take home any of the products from this issue’s shoots, which pieces would you pick?

“One of the heavenly vintage rugs from Cadrys!”

Follow Corina at @corina_koch_stylist

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elle Lovelock CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katrina Yaxley DEPUTY EDITOR Victoria Kingsbury

A RT & S T Y L E ART DIRECTORS Paloma Garay, Alice Ierace IMAGE RETOUCHER Matus Kundrat

F E AT U R E S & C O N T E N T CHIEF COPY EDITOR Sarah Pickette SENIOR COPY EDITORS Kate Barber, Annette Farnsworth SENIOR FEATURES WRITER Laura Barry EMAIL HOMEBEAUTIFUL@AREMEDIA.COM.AU

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

A DV E RT I S I NG COMMERCIAL BRAND MANAGER Michelle O’Hanlon (02) 9282 8620 BRAND EXECUTIVE Amelia Paterson (02) 9282 8038 ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER Kate Orsborn (02) 9283 8364 NSW, VIC AND SA DIRECTOR OF SALES Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 VICTORIAN HEAD OF DIRECT SALES Demi Martello (03) 9823 6368 QUEENSLAND HEAD OF SALES Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 HEAD OF CREATIVE Clare Catt (02) 8116 9341 NEW ZEALAND ENQUIRIES +61 2 9282 8505

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

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

ARE MEDIA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jane Huxley FINANCE DIRECTOR Marena Paul GROUP PUBLISHER, HOMES Shane Sutton DIRECTOR OF SALES Andrew Cook CUSTOMER DIRECTOR Sally Eagle GENERAL MANAGER, BRANDS & COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS Jane Waterhouse BUSINESS MANAGER Georgina Bromfield

GET IN TOUCH LETTERS TO: Home Beautiful, Reply Paid 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000. EMAIL: homebeautiful@aremedia.com.au Printed by IVE, 1/83 Derby Street, Silverwater NSW 2128. Published by Are Media Pty Limited (ACN 053 273 546), 54-58 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8000. The trade mark Home Beautiful is the property of Are Media Limited and is used under licence. Distributed by Are Direct, 31-35 Heathcote Road, Moorebank, NSW 2170, (02) 9972 8800. *Recommended price, Home Beautiful. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Are Media Pty Limited does not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. © 2022 Are Media Pty Limited. All rights reserved. ISSN 0004-928X

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PRIVACY NOTICE This issue of Home Beautiful is published by Are Media Pty Limited (Are Media).

Are Media may use and disclose your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, including to provide you with your requested products or services and to keep you informed of other Are Media publications, products, services and events. Our Privacy Policy is located at www.aremedia.com.au/privacy/. It also sets out how you can access or correct your personal information and lodge a complaint.

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Personal information collected for Reader Offers may be disclosed by us to service providers assisting Are Media in the conduct of the Reader Offer and to other organisations providing special prizes or offers that are part of the Reader Offer. An opt-out choice is provided with a Reader Offer. Unless you exercise that opt-out choice, personal information collected for Reader Offers may also be disclosed by us to other organisations for use by them to inform you about other products, services or events or to give to other organisations that may use this information for this purpose. If you require further information, please contact Are Media’s Privacy Officer either by email at privacyofficer@aremedia.com.au or mail at Privacy Officer Are Media Pty Limited, 54 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

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PHOTOGRAPHY HANNAH PUECHMARIN

COLLECTOR’S EDITION

WITH GUEST EDITOR ANNA SPIRO

on sale June 6

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

INTRODUCING

THE RESTORE PALETTE PAIR EARTHY DULUX COLOURS WITH NATUR AL MATERIALS AND CURVES FOR A CALMING EFFECT RELAXATION IN EVERY ROOM Turn your space into a sanctuary with the gentle earth-inspired tones of the Restore palette, one of three trending palettes in the Dulux Colour Forecast 2022. These colours draw the outside in and provide instant comfort. Bring a rich forest green into your living room or create a cocooning vibe in the bedroom by surrounding yourself with warm clay or buttercream tones.

CONNECT WITH THE NATURAL WORLD Having spent so much time on screens in the last couple of years, many of us yearn for tactile experiences and a connection with nature. Accessorise your earthy scheme with bold timber furniture, loose linen window coverings and natural stone surfaces.

Soften edges with indoor plants, trailing from shelves or clustered elegantly in a corner.

STYLING TIP KEEP IT SIMPLE BY USING TONAL SHADES OF THE ONE COLOUR ACROSS YOUR WALLS AND SOFT FURNISHINGS, WHILST SEEKING OUT FURNITURE WITH CURVED, FUSS-FREE LINES. SOFTEN THE LOOK WITH TEXTURE, SUCH AS A BOUCLE SOFA OR ARMCHAIR, WOVEN RUGS UNDERFOOT AND TACTILE, NATUR AL STONE ACCENTS.

ON THE WALLS: DULUX WINTER TERR ACE AND NATUR AL FLOR A IN DULUX WASH & WEAR.

FIND MORE DULUX COLOUR INSPIR ATION AT DULUX.COM.AU

BEAUTIFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY ADAIRS ‘OTTO’ SEAGRASS BASKET IN NATURAL ADAIRS

style

COLLECTION ADAIRS CORE COLLECTION

There’s a chill in the air and it’s time to update your winter woollies. Adairs’ cosy favourites are back, so you can stay toasty – and stylish. Check out the range of vintage washed linen, perhaps the softest cotton towels, or comfy knitted cotton throws, such as ‘Welcome Home’ in Natural (pictured left) and ‘Bee’ in Green (in basket), $129.99 each/170cm x 130cm.

Visit adairs.com.au to be inspired.

SHOP | DISCOVER | DECORATE | STYLE | EXPLORE

Add to cart

What’s hot

FRESH PICKS

OUR ROUND-UP OF THE LATEST DESIGN NEWS, SHOPPING AND DECORATING

THE COCOON COLLECTION FROM ECOLOGY HOMEWARES IS HERE. WE LOVE THE ‘OTTAWA’ BUTTER DISH, $39.95, GRAVY JUG, $29.95, AND ROUND BAKER, $89.95, AND THE GEOMETRIC PRINTS OF THE ‘MALMO’ COTTON NAPKINS (BOTTOM), $29.95 FOR FOUR, FROM ECOLOGYHOMEWARES.COM.AU.

Edited by LAURA BARRY

TABLE TALK Designed to elevate your daily dining ritual, the Cara collection from Cultiver is made from natural linen with a contrast edge for a modern feel.

The range includes a tablecloth from $210, a set of four napkins for $60 and a table runner from $85, and is available in Olive, Slate, Natural or Cedar colourways. Cultiver.com.au.

LOOKING TO UPDATE YOUR FLOORS? TRY BEFORE YOU BUY WITH THE ROOM VIEW VISUALISER APP AT CHOICESFLOORING.COM.AU/ROOM-VIEW-VISUALISER.

TOP 3 BLANKETS SNUGGLE UP WITH THESE WOOLLY WINTER WARMERS IN TOASTY FABRICS, PRETTY HUES AND FANTASTIC FRINGES

CURVES AHEAD From top: ‘Tilly’ alpaca throw, $375/183cm x 122cm, St Albans. Merino waffle throw in Natural, $299/178cm x 122cm, Waverley Mills. Nordic Fusion ‘Chevron’ wool blanket, $174.95/ 200cm x 130cm, Hardtofind.

UPHOLSTERED IN ‘SAGO’ WOOL FABRIC, THE ROUNDED FORM OF HEATHERLY DESIGN’S ‘AMANTI’ CHAIR IN BELAIR SNOW FEELS LIKE A WARM EMBRACE, $1850.

HEATHERLYDESIGN.COM.AU.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE BOTTOM LEFT) MARC BUCKNER (THIS PAGE MIDDLE RIGHT) BLUE TREE STUDIOS (OPPOSITE BOTTOM RIGHT) ESTEBAN LA TESSA

EARN YOUR STRIPES A contemporary and multi-purpose fabric with a relaxed aesthetic, the new ‘Salford’ range of upholstery fabrics from Warwick features timeless stripes and checks. Visit warwick.com.au.

Beautiful STYLE

Wildest dreams WEDGWOOD IS INVITING A LITTLE BIT OF NATURE INTO YOUR HOME WITH THE WANDERLUST TABLEWARE COLLECTION. THE FLORA- AND FAUNA-FILLED DESIGNS ARE SURE TO ENCHANT YOU. FROM TOP: ‘WATERLILY’ PLATE, $89.95, ‘MENAGERIE’ CUP AND SAUCER, $139, ‘EMERALD FOREST’ PLATE, $89.95, AND ‘BLUE PAGODA’ CAKE STAND, $249, WEDGWOOD.COM.AU.

EXPERT EDIT INTERIOR STYLIST STEVE CORDONY HAS CREATED FOUR COLOUR PALETTES TO DISPLAY THE VERSATILITY OF BRICKWORKS PRODUCTS AND INSPIRE YOUR EXTERIOR DESIGN. THE PALETTES INCLUDE ‘NEUTRAL GROUND’ (PICTURED), ‘MODERN MEDITERRANEAN’, ‘URBAN ESCAPE’ AND ‘CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC’.

VIEW THE PALETTES AND FIND YOUR STYLE AT BRICKWORKS.COM.AU.

5 minutes with... TINA NETTLEFOLD

HB TALKS TO THE INTERIOR STYLIST AND FOUNDER OF T.HOUSE HOMEWARES BRAND, WHICH RAISES MONEY FOR CHARITIES

Why did you start T.House?

“I had a successful interior styling and decorating business for years, but in 2020 when our first pandemic lockdown in Melbourne was enforced and my milestone 60th birthday celebrations had to be cancelled, I decided to retire from the business – but I didn’t want to retire from life. The idea was born mid-2020, then we officially launched in April 2021, raising money for EatUp with our Mother and Child Apron Campaign for a Mother’s Day promotion. In less than 12 months we have developed more than 25 products.”

What was the biggest challenge of establishing T.House?

“The logistics involved has been the greatest challenge, such as finding the right people and companies to work with,

finding eco-friendly packaging at a reasonable price, and getting items produced in time and trying to find Australian manufacturers.”

How did you decide which charities to work with?

“I only work with three charities, and I chose them based on my belief that no child should ever go hungry in our country, that every child should have a home, and every child deserves the best medical care – EatUp, Lighthouse Foundation and Robert Connor Dawes Foundation.”

What’s your top style tip?

“Make it your own! Remember, it’s your home and it should reflect the way you want to live in your home. It should make you feel like it’s your peaceful oasis, a place where you feel warm and happy.”

Visit thouse.com.au or follow on Instagram at @t.house.com.au

T.House founder Tina Nettlefold (pictured above) donates 100 per cent of the profits of T.House’s range of gifts and homewares to charities close to her heart.

HOME BEAUTIFUL

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Creative collection

COASTAL MUSE A LOVE OF THE BEACH IS INEXTRICABLY LINKED TO NOOSA PAINTER MITCHELL ENGLISH’S LIFE AND CAREER Story & styling KYLIE JACKES Photography LOUISE ROCHE

Beautiful STYLE OPPOSITE: Mitchell English in his studio. The artworks are (clockwise from left) ‘Seal rocks (3 circles)’, ‘Motel Balcony’ and ‘After Glow’. THIS PAGE, TOP LEFT: A close-up of ‘Pastel Heatwave’. TOP RIGHT: ‘Late Afternoon, Golden Glow’. BOTTOM LEFT: Paintbrushes ready for action.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Mitch heads out for a surf whenever he can.

At a glance Who: Mitchell English, artist.

What he does: Full-time painter, part-time surfer.

Where: Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Qld. Why he does it: “Best job in the world,” enthuses Mitchell.

Visit: mitchellenglish.com.au.

Follow: @mitchell_english_painter, @arcadiastreetgallery. >

HOME BEAUTIFUL

21

Beautiful STYLE TOP LEFT: “None of the colours I use are straight out of the tube,” says Mitch, at work on ‘Blue Heatwave’. “They’re custom mixed and often I’ll do lots of overpainting to get the right tone.”

TOP RIGHT: A print of Mitch’s ‘Gold Summer’ series was turned into a vinyl wrap adorning The Spit Van, a converted vintage caravan which sells ice-creams, coffee and toasties in Noosa.

A

“I think my paintings of the beach connect people to something they’re very familiar with and conjure a sense of nostalgia” MITCHELL

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HOME BEAUTIFUL

s a teenager living in Sydney’s Bondi Beach, Mitchell English loved to surf and paint. Three decades on, he considers himself incredibly fortunate as his days still revolve around both. Most mornings Mitch surfs at his local Noosa break on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, before breakfast with partner Chelsea and kindy drop-off for son Duke, five, then it’s eight hours or so at work in his studio.

“I’ve always made a point to live within walking distance to the beach,” says Mitch, who has edged his way up and down the east coast, living in idyllic spots such as Sydney’s Palm Beach, Manyana on the NSW South Coast and now Noosa, where a 1960s Little Cove beach shack has been home for three years. “The beach has always been a big influence in my life and work,” he says. “Most people have fond memories of the beach, whether it was Christmas holidays as a kid, a beach house, an annual pilgrimage, and my work has a retro feel which taps into that nostalgia.”

Mitch initially dabbled in graphic design before pursuing a Fine Arts degree and a Master’s in design and taking on various jobs, from university lecturing to pulling beers and pumping petrol, to supplement his art income. “It’s been a long slog but it’s been worth it,” he says. “When you really have a passion for something, you just can’t walk away from it.”

A break came in 2011 when ad man John Singleton commissioned several works, some of Mitch’s earliest iterations of his ‘Heatwave’ series.

It’s what he’s become known for – stylised paintings of sunbathers, towels and surfboards strewn across the sand. “My ‘Heatwave’ paintings were inspired by a photo of Bondi Beach in the ’70s and have evolved,” he says.

Almost half his work is on commission. “I often get asked to include family members and even dogs,” he says. “The trick is not to make it too obvious. It’s subtle, it might be a reference to a towel or umbrella.

There’s always a question hanging over the painting as to who they are.”

Mitch also teaches life-drawing courses, plans to host workshops and is the co-owner of the Arcadia Street Gallery in Noosa Heads, which showcases contemporary artists. He constantly fills orders for limitededition prints, and his art will soon cross over into design and fashion, featuring on a range of boardshorts and shirts for surf label The Critical Slide Society. This has afforded Mitch the freedom to push the boundaries with his painting and explore a series titled ‘With The Sun In My Eyes’, which celebrates beach nostalgia and debuted at a recent solo show.

“It’s a wonderful feeling not to worry about where the money for the following week’s rent is coming from, and get paid to do what I love,” he says. “And it’s a job that allows me to surf.” What could be better?

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HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

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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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Australian made and exclusive to Harvey Norman.

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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BEAUTIFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY WILL HORNER STYLING CORINA KOCH

shopping

MAGIC CARPETS

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DECORATING IDEAS AND STYLISH BUYS TO INSPIRE YOUR INTERIORS

Magic carpets WARM UP COLD WINTER FLOORS WITH THIS SELECTION OF OUR FAVOURIITE LUSH, VELVETY RUGS UNDERFOOT Styling CORINA KOCH Photography WILL HORNER

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STYLING ASSISTANT SAVANNA COHEN *CONVERSION CORRECT AT TIME OF PRINT

neutral zone

TAKE CUES FROM NATURE FOR A SERENE SPACE PREVIOUS PAGE, FROM TOP: ‘Sasha’ rug in Ivory Cream/Grey, $385/ 230cm x 160cm, Miss Amara. ‘Ajmer’ runner in Ash, $920/350cm x 80cm, and Bone, $920/350cm x 80cm, both Hali. Afghan ‘Bohemia’ ivory/natural rug, $9800/421cm x 310cm, Cadrys. On rugs: Coe Studio ‘Coiled 2’ sculpture, $2200, Tow and Line. ABOVE: 1. ‘Siyah’ rug in Light Grey, $599/230cm x 160cm, Freedom.

2. ‘Grace’ rug, $3690/300cm x 200cm, Designer Rugs. 3. Ground Control Rugs ‘Reality Weave’ rug in Cream, $1499/230cm x 160cm, Hardtofind. 4. Tasseled Wool rug in Dove, $2480*/300cm x 200cm, Nodi. 5. ‘Chad’ round rug in Natural, $349/180cm diameter, Provincial Home Living. 6. Hare + Klein ‘Botanic’ rug, $10,750/250cm diameter, Designer Rugs. 7. ‘Toledo’ rug in Moon Beam, $1150/230cm x 160cm, Hali. OPPOSITE, FROM TOP: ‘Moselle’ distressed floral rug in Beige/Brown, $195/180cm x 120cm, Miss Amara. ‘Marion’ rug in Sandstone, $3585/300cm x 200cm, King Living. ‘Georgia’ rug in Natural Brown, $285/120cm diameter, Miss Amara. Afghan kandahar brown/ivory runner, $9500/350cm x 95cm, Afghan ivory/natural ‘Bohemia’ rug, $9800/421cm x 310cm, and Afghan brown ‘Bohemia’ rug, $7560/364cm x 277cm, all Cadrys. On rugs: Vintage wooden handled bowl, $145, and rolled top woven grain basket, $280, both Watertiger. >

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ADD IMPACT TO INTERIORS WITH BLOCK COLOURS IN RUSSET, SAGE AND INDIGO

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ABOVE: 1. Ground Control Rugs ‘Pallas Weave’ rug in Sage, $1399/230cm x 160cm, Hardtofind.

2. Afghan ‘Bohemia’ rug, $5800/313cm x 246cm, Cadrys. 3. ‘Valentina’ rug in Rose, $2995/300cm x 200cm, Coco Republic.

4. ‘Agra’ hand-knotted wool rug in Burnt Umbra, Armadillo. 5. Bamboo silk blend rug in Dusty Mauve, $4133*/300cm x 200cm, Nodi.

6. ‘Thermal’ wool rug by Gavin Harris, $4688/250cm x 250cm, Designer Rugs.

OPPOSITE, FROM TOP: ‘Dahlia’ flatweave rug in Gold, $240/180cm x 120cm, Miss Amara.

‘Terra’ jute rug in Moss, $1300/240cm x 170cm, Armadillo. ‘Foxton’ rug in Warm Rust, $399/200cm diameter, Freedom. ‘Agra’ wool rug in Moonstone, $4500/300cm x 240cm, Armadillo. Pinstripe wool rug in Seal, $1149/230cm x 160cm, The Rug Collection.

On rugs: ‘Hey Hey’ wooden stool, $260, Tow and Line. Unique pedestal bowl from Salesi, $150, Watertiger. >

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CREATE LAYERS AND TEXTURE WITH PATTERNS ABOVE: 1. ‘Sophia’ wool rug in Silver, $1995/350cm

x 250cm, Coco Republic. 2. ‘Oceania’ wool rug in Terra Firma, $3585/300cm x 200cm, King. 3. Afghan ‘Bohemia’ rug, $7900/372cm x 283cm, Cadrys.

4. ‘Metro 602’ rug in Fuschia, $199/230cm x 160cm, Choices Flooring. 5. ‘Circuit’ wool rug by Gavin Harris, $4688/250cm diameter, Designer Rugs. OPPOSITE, FROM TOP: ‘Nami’ runner in Blue Stone/Bronze Marble, $225/300cm x 80cm, Miss Amara. ‘Los Angeles’ wool rug by Greg Natale, $6902/300cm x 240cm, Designer Rugs. Vintage Turkish isparta rug, $3600/284cm x 199cm, and Antique ‘Caucasian’ karabagh runner, $13,000/545cm x 113cm, both Cadrys. ‘Malachite’ rug by Greg Natale, $9979/300cm x 240cm, Designer Rugs. On rugs: ‘Tijuana’ decorative urn in Blush, $119.95, Provincial Home Living. Paper mache bowl, $125, Watertiger.

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FOLIAGE FROM BESS PADDINGTON

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FRILL SEEKERS REINVIGORATE YOUR SPACE WITH RUFFLES, PATTERN AND POPS OF COLOUR Compiled by KATRINA YAXLEY

1. Poppy and Honesty ruffle pillowcase in Penzance, $76.54*/50cm x 70cm, Etsy. 2. Velvet bolster cushion in Pomegranate, $139/40cm x 85cm, Saardé. 3. In Casa by Paboy ruffle handmade cushion cover in Orange, $180/45cm x 45cm, Selfridges. 4. ‘Dandelion’ woven stripe cushion in Buff, $200/60cm x 60cm, Bonnie & Neil. 5. Nicholas Agency & Co fringed rectangular cushion in Sage, $44.95/30cm x 50cm, Temple & Webster. 6. Play by Sage & Clare ‘Ada’ fringe cushion, $85/40cm x 60cm, The Bay Room. 7. Linen House Wren cushion in Forest, $74/45cm x 45cm, Domayne. 8. Check full ruffle cushion in Peach Lemonade, $99/50cm x 50cm, Society of Wanderers. 9. Scalloped ruffle edge circle cushion in Liberty fabric, $126*, Coco & Wolf. 10. Alligator velvet tassel cushion, $99/50cm x 50cm, Kip & Co.

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ANT IOXIDA NTS AND VITA MINS RES TORE, WHILE I NGREDIENT S L IKE A LO E VERA AND CALENDULA CALM. CAFFEINE HELPS TO FAD E DA RK CIRCLE S.

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FO R EY ES , LOO K FO R BA LM S A ND GEL S T HAT G LI D E O N TO PLUMP A N D ERAS E LI N E S, EASE D RYN ES S A ND TAR G E T DAR K S P OTS , P IG M ENTAT IO N OR UN E V E N S KI N TON E .

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SOOTHING AND FIRMING SERUMS AND BALMS FOR PERKY PEEPERS Styling LISA BURDEN Photography ALANA LANDSBERRY

1. Apotcare Hyalu Repair Eye Recovery gel, $103, Mecca. 2. Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme + Global Anti-Aging Cell Power eye balm, $100/15ml, Sephora.

3. Susanne Kaufmann Line T eye cream, $109/15ml, Mecca. 4. Verso Super eye serum, $120/30ml, Mecca. 5. Dr. Barbara Sturm Super Anti-Aging eye cream, $314, Mecca. 6. Dr Naomi Catfish Blurring eye cream, $89/10ml. 7. Caudalie Vinergetic C+ Brightening eye cream, $54/15ml, Sephora. 8. Clarins Double Serum eye treatment, $115/20ml. 9. Fenty Skin Flash Nap Instant Revival eye gel-cream, $49/15ml, Sephora. 10. Rose Inc Eye Revival Brightening eye cream, available soon from Mecca. 11. Jurlique Nutri-Define Supreme Contour balm, $106/15ml (comes with applicator, pictured below). Vases, from left: Small ‘Mair’ ceramic vase in Nougat, $39.95, Large ‘Mair’ ceramic vase in Terracotta, $79.95, and Large ‘Mair’ vase in Peony Pink, $79.95, all Country Road.

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BEAUTIFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER STYLING KAYLA GEX

homes

FAMILY JEWEL

page 48

THE STORIES, STYLE AND LOVE THAT MAKE A HOME BEAUTIFUL

Beautiful HOMES

Family jewel

A SYDNEY COUPLE ARE INSPIRED BY THEIR HERITAGE HOME’S GRAND OLD FEATURES TO CREATE A STYLISH, COMFORTABLE HUB Story STEPHANIE HOPE Styling KAYLA GEX Photography MAREE HOMER

WE LOVE...

privacy plants In any high-density area, backyard privacy is an issue.

“We have a unit block next door and planted a hedge along that fence with a variety of lilly pilly called ‘Goodbye Neighbours’,” says Sarah. “It grew quickly and is quite hardy. There was a small gap so we planted a large ornamental pear there – seven years on, it fills that space perfectly. You can sit in the back garden and not see the unit building at all. It’s completely private.”

TOGETHER TIME “The backyard is our sanctuary from our busy lives, a place to sit and relax,” says homeowner Sarah (pictured, with husband Paul and sons Benjamin, left, and Sebastian).

An outdoor dining setting from Harvey Norman is the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine while the boys play, and the Steel Cucine four-burner barbecue from The BBQ Store makes entertaining outdoors a breeze. The roof of the new extension is Colorbond in Wallaby. For a similar awning, try the Protecta Straight Drop from Intex Concepts. >

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LAMP BLOOMINGDALES RUG INTERNATIONAL FLOORCOVERINGS THROW ST ALBANS SIDE TABLE & CONSOLE (LEFT) GLOBE IMPORTS CUSTOM CURTAINS STUDIO TRIO RALPH LAUREN ‘MODERN’ LANTERNS LAURA KINCADE RUNNER TAPPETI ARTWORKS ABSTRACT FINE ART VIA ETSY (LEFT) DESIGNER BOYS

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he Sydney suburb of Haberfield is just six kilometres from the CBD, but its wide streets, established gardens and parks give it a ‘small village’ feel that is ideal for raising a family.

This vibe, along with the neighbourhood’s rich Italian influence and delightful heritage homes, is what drew Sarah and her husband Paul to the area 16 years ago. “Our house is on a fairly busy street, which we were hesitant about at first, but we love how it connects us with our local community,” says Sarah, who is mum to Benjamin, 13, and Sebastian (Basti), 10. “Over the years we’ve met many locals who stop for a chat about our renovations or the gardens.

You don’t get that in a lot of other suburbs.”

When they purchased the Federation-style home, it had most of its original features but the layout wasn’t ideal. “We were lucky that, unlike many of the other homes in the area, it hadn’t been subjected to a tacky 1980s renovation,” says Sarah. “Although at the back, it was basically a lean-to with a few ugly, utilitarian-style rooms and an outside toilet. We weren’t sad to eventually knock that part down.”

She and Paul renovated in stages, starting with an eight-month restoration of the house’s facade before moving in, followed by a more substantial renovation and extension out the back in 2010. “The aim of the extension was to give us more usable space – an internal laundry, an extra bathroom, a large kitchen and space for entertaining,” she says.

However, it was another 10 years before they could properly furnish and decorate their renovated home. “Caring for sick parents, running

Beautiful HOMES LIVING AREA “In the mornings, I love to sit in this armchair,” says Sarah of her

favoured old chair, which was re-covered in Schumacher ‘Abstract Leaf’ fabric (try Xavier Furniture). “It’s a peaceful way to start my day.” This bright and breezy space flows to the deck and connects with the kitchen and dining. Other seating is in the form of a Molmic ‘Shona’ sofa in Schumacher ‘Auden’ fabric.

The studded table by Studio Trio is in La Casa leather by Warwick, while the EF Chapman ‘Darlana’ pendant light is from Laura Kincade and custom joinery stores board games, puzzles, photo albums, platters and “millions of cat toys” for pet cat Shibi. ENTRY Once the front door opens (opposite), the home’s original features make an impact. “That’s what drew us to this house,” says Sarah. “That link with its history was important for us to maintain.” >

DINING AREA Interior designer Lauren Mahoney custom-designed

the solid-oak dining table with its round stainless steel flush inlay.

‘Chippendale’ chairs with Schumacher upholstery (try Orient House) and a rattan cocktail cart, both from Lincoln Brooks, an EF Chapman ‘Darlana’ pendant from Laura Kincade and an Ornate Palm artwork from Designer Boys give the corner a modern colonial feel. “We eat here as a family most nights and sit here when we entertain,” says Sarah.

KITCHEN The Provincial Kitchens-designed kitchen (opposite) has shaker-profile cabinetry, a modern splashback of ‘Crackle Dove’ tiles from Surface Gallery, Calacutta Primo rear counters from WK Quantum Quartz and a redgum timber benchtop for the four-metre island using reclaimed beams from a demolished shopping centre. The island is in Dulux Blue Sou’Wester and interior walls are in Dulux Palace Stone.

THOMAS O’BRIEN ‘ROBINSON’ PENDANT LIGHTS LAURA KINCADE ‘CHIPPENDALE’ KITCHEN STOOLS LINCOLN BROOKS CLOCK INTERIORS ONLINE ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Beautiful HOMES

a family business and having two children meant the finishing touches took longer than we would have liked,” explains Sarah. “The house was lovely but it was pretty basic. We didn’t have the time or the budget to execute the full decorating vision.”

In 2020, they were in a better position – and Sarah had just the person waiting in the wings.

“I’ve been friends with Lauren Mahoney from [interior design firm] Studio Trio for more than 25 years,” she says. “I’m hopeless when it comes to shopping and coordinating, but having been friends for so long, Lauren knows us and our style. She made it so easy.”

Sarah and Paul requested a classic and robust interior that could absorb the knocks of everyday life with two boys while still being stylish and comfortable. Lauren selected furnishings that play to the home’s traditional features – think stately wingback chairs, a solid, sculptural dining table and ornate light fittings. Living spaces are cosy and comfortable with plump cushions and soft carpets and

rugs, and the bedrooms have been styled with their inhabitants in mind – a playful, nautical theme for Sebastian; a cool teen hangout for Ben; and a harmonious, effortless retreat for their parents.

Throughout, family photos and botanical artworks fill the walls, and custom joinery in the bathroom and living area displays books and items collected on the couple’s travels.

“Paul and I can’t function in cluttered spaces but we like the house to feel cosy and lived-in,” says Sarah. “It’s a fine line between comfortable and crazy, so we choose carefully.”

A palette of blues, greys and whites imbues each room with a feeling of tranquillity, which has been a blessing in recent times. “Like many SARAH families, we’ve spent more time at home,” says Sarah. “Having spaces to retreat to as needed has been a life-saver. We still smile every time we come home. The softness, the light and shadow, the details and knowing how much work we’ve put into this house… we feel very fortunate.” >

“THE kitchen IS WARM AND inviting, AND OPENING TO THE GARDEN ADDS TO THE SENSE OF SPACE”

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“FRIENDS HAVE COMMENTED ON HOW WELL THE HOUSE balances STYLE AND COMFORT. THEY SEE THE BEAUTY AND quality IN THE DETAILS” SARAH

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MAIN BED

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ENTRY

FLOOR PLAN

BED BATH LAUNDRY OFFICE

ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM BARBARA BARRY ‘WESTPORT’ HANGING SHADE LAURA KINCADE ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

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LIBRARY “We use this room as a retreat, a quiet space for reading or relaxing, quiet conversations or escaping the noise of the living area,” says Sarah. Plush Cavalier Bremworth ‘Astoria’ carpet in Brooklyn aids the cause, as does an existing sofa bed re-covered in ‘Monte Carlo’ navy fabric from The Textile Company, a custom ottoman by Studio Trio upholstered in ‘Genoa Trevira’ fabric in Deep Aqua from Westbury Textiles and ‘Paro’ armchairs by Studio Trio in Schumacher ‘Menemsha’ fabric (try Orient House). “We think the armchairs really make this room,” says Sarah. “The wingback style and fabric is so inviting. It’s one of Shibi the cat’s favourite places to sleep – he lies in here for hours and hours.” Walls in Dulux Sealegs display a set of floral prints from Uttermost, while two pressed flower artworks from La Grolla frame the leadlight window. The table lamps are from Canvas + Sasson, and the door opens to the wraparound front verandah. >

BENJAMIN’S BEDROOM (top left) Ben’s room is dedicated to his love of basketball, as seen in the trio of framed NBL wall prints from Divine Digital Prints. The oak ‘Austen’ bed and ‘Luna’ bedside are both from Life Interiors. Black accents in the Mayfield ‘Rayray’ lamp and Serena & Lily bedlinen give a sense of maturity. “Lauren made sure Ben’s room was more ‘teenager’ while still having a bit of fun with it,” says Sarah. “What I would’ve given for a room like this when I was 13!” SEBASTIAN’S BEDROOM (top right and left) “We wanted something a bit playful for Basti’s room,” says Sarah.

“The nautical theme happened because he loves everything about the ocean, the beach and fishing.” A ‘Hudson’ drum pendant from Magins Lighting and bunting from Etsy are suspended from the ceiling, while the wall in Dulux Bay’s Water sports a pair of ‘Palm Beach’ paddles from Coastal Vintage. Sebastian’s existing bed and side table were repainted in Dulux Odyssey. In a corner (left), a Bramble ‘Surveyor’s’ desk in NBL Navy Blue is paired with an ‘Espen’ chair from Brosa. A Gubi ‘Démon’ bookshelf from Cult holds books and toys, and the world map pinboard was sourced from Etsy. MAIN BEDROOM (opposite) A cushioned bedhead by Studio Trio upholstered in ‘Erin’ fabric in Cornflower from Marco Fabrics ties in with walls in Dulux Spartan Blue. Bedlinen from Serena & Lily and a Barbara Barry ‘Westport’ hanging shade from Laura Kincade bring layers of texture to another space that meets with the approval of Shibi the ragdoll cat. >

DESIGN HOUSE KNOT CUSHION (TOP LEFT) LEO & BELLA ‘LUNA’ BEANBAG (TOP RIGHT) LIFE! ARTWORKS (LEFT) UNKNOWN ARTISTS ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Beautiful HOMES

“THE wall colour CHANGES WITH THE TIME OF DAY. IN THE MORNING, THE BLUE IS vivid, IN THE AFTERNOON IT’S MORE relaxed AND BY THE EVENING IT’S MUCH MORE GREY” SARAH

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Beautiful HOMES Source book Interior design: Lauren Mahoney, Studio Trio, (02) 9967 3060, studiotrio.com.au.

Architect: Colin Filmer Architects.

Builder: SFN Constructions, (02) 9550 0911, sfnbuild.com.au.

Joinery: Sam Bilotta, BK Kitchens, 0418 224 375.

Kitchen: Provincial Kitchens, (02) 9315 7200, provincialkitchens.com.au.

BATHROOM A bank of joinery in Dulux Spartan Blue fills one wall of the spacious main bathroom. “Looking back, making the bathroom as big as it is seemed indulgent at the time, but it’s worked so well,” says Sarah. “The boys get to use it every day – lucky things!” Husband Paul also gets good use from the Kaldewei bathtub from Rogerseller.

“He’s 193cm, so getting a bath big enough was important.” Limestone floor tiles from Marble & Ceramic Corp were a hardwearing choice.

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Sarah & Paul’s home

TAPWARE: ‘OVO’ WALL SET (#3) PARISI ‘ICON’ WALL SET (#4) ASTRA WALKER MIRRORS (#3) MIRRORS GALORE (#4) UTTERMOST ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

4 1. In the library, an Arteriors ‘Marcus’ glass coffee table from Boyd Blue.

2. Tessellated tiles from Olde English Tiles pop against black granite stairs.

3. A Villeroy & Boch basin and Barbara Barry ‘Clout’ sconces from Laura Kincade in the boys’ bathroom.

4. More custom joinery by Studio Trio in the ensuite, with a Calacatta Oro top and Thassos tiles from Olde English Tiles.

5. In Ben’s room, a ‘No Nails’ pinboard from Pottery Barn Kids above a Karpenter ‘Soho’ desk (try Elysium Home).

6. Lamps by Circle of Light continue the main bedroom’s blue theme. Try Pottery Barn for a similar bedside table.

7. Sarah and Paul chose Brazilian chestnut timber flooring in a satin finish for the open-plan living and kitchen area.

Who lives here?

Sarah, who works for family business Gremalco while studying; her husband Paul, an engineer at Gremalco; children Benjamin, 13, and Sebastian, 10; and Shibi the cat.

How would you describe your style?

Sarah: “A bit traditional with some modern classic thrown in.”

Favourite things to buy for your home?

“Books, blankets, fresh flowers and candles!”

What’s your favourite piece?

“The dining table. It’s sculptural and soft but solid, and the craftsmanship and detail are brilliant. It’s a statement piece.”

Are there any eco elements?

“We installed a Ventis subfloor and home ventilation system. It’s a passive system that uses outside air to cool the house at night in summer or air from the roof space to heat it during the day in winter.”

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THIS MULTICOLOURED FEDERATION FEAST FOR THE EYES BECOMES A PERFECT MATCH FOR A DYNAMIC SYDNEY FAMILY

Story SUE WHEELER Styling BRETT MICKAN Photography PABLO VEIGA

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ARTWORKS (ON LEFT WALL) LOW TIDE BUNDANON TANNYA HARRICKS (ON RIGHT WALL, PARTLY SEEN) MISS WONG VLADIMIR TRETCHIKOFF (OPPOSITE) JOANNA GOMBATTO DOG VASE (OPPOSITE) VINTAGE FIND CUSTOM RUG TAPPETI ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Beautiful HOMES

Bright

COSY COMFORT This joyous home on Sydney’s Lower North Shore draws

inspiration from its Federation roots and outlook, with interiors by designer Brett Mickan for homeowners Di and Mike and their children Joshua, Lachlan, Eloise, Harry and Olivia. In the main living, V-groove panelling, walls in Dulux White Duck Quarter and a cathedral ceiling create the backdrop for layers of prints, patterns and colours, while the King ‘Concerto’ sofa offers a comfortable night in front of the TV. “It’s important for the colours to clash a little, to give it energy,” says Brett. “Lots of children live in the space and it shouldn’t feel like a showroom.” The ottomans are by Diane Bergeron for Arthur G, the ‘Sprout’ side table is from Blu Dot and the curtains in Christopher Farr fabric are from Coco’s Soft Furnishings. The entry (opposite) extends a colourful welcome, with a vintage lamp, ‘Unfold’ pendants by Muuto (try Surrounding) and a ‘Ti Vedo’ owl wall lamp by Karman (try LightCo). Wainscoting adds grandeur and contrast to Dulux Delta Break gracing the walls. “We also have panelling upstairs, which ties the old and new spaces together,” says Di. >

Beautiful HOMES

CUSTOM RUG (BOTH PAGES) TAPPETI ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

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ith busy jobs and five children under 17, there’s never a dull moment for this Sydney family… and the same goes for the colourful interiors of their renovated 1918 Federation home. Its blood orange front door and chartreuse hallway are a nod to the vibrancy beyond.

“I love colour as it makes me feel alive,” says homeowner Di, who lives here with husband Mike and their children, Joshua, 16, Lachlan, 15, Eloise 12, and twins Harry and Olivia, nine. “I think the house embodies the personality of our family – there’s always a lot going on and we are positive people with a bright outlook on life.”

The couple bought the house in 2001 and lived in it for a while before moving to Hong Kong, where they stayed for 12 years. “We did a more straightforward, and mainly neutral, renovation in 2012, but when we returned in 2017 we wanted to build a second storey and stamp our style on it,” says Di. “We now had five children and part of the deal of coming back to Australia was that they each got their own bedroom.”

Di enlisted designer Brett Mickan, well-known for injecting colour into interiors and creating captivating and unique spaces. Brett and his team, who Di had worked with before, handled the entire renovation from the design and build to the decor. “I love green, as you can tell,” says Di, “so I asked Brett to create something colourful that expressed our personalities (probably more mine). I have complete trust in Brett and told him, ‘Go for your life’. Well, I’m a banker… he’s the designer!”

The family lived through the renovation, which was “pretty full on”, but after a year of using a makeshift kitchen, their dream abode was ready. The new second level has two bedrooms, a bathroom, study and a communal lounge that is home to one of the family’s two pianos, from which music drifts downstairs. On the ground level there are three bedrooms and the master suite, an L-shaped living, dining and kitchen and what Di calls the “adults’ lounge”. Outside, Brett had previously supervised extensive landscaping and the building of a pool. This renovation included a covered entertaining area and outdoor kitchen.

With the interiors, respecting the heritage of the home was integral.

“I wanted to blur the lines between the original Federation home and the extension, in a contemporary way,” says Brett. “I used the green and touches of red found in the stained-glass window of the original front door as inspiration – colour defines the spaces and leads you through.”

Di’s penchant for mid-century design also informed the palette. “The green in the hallway references this period and Federation, but its yellow base is brighter than in a traditional Federation home,” says Brett.

A floral theme meanders through – seen in pretty, printed cushions, headboards and ottomans – and connects the home to the garden and the nostalgia of florals in Federation style, while pieces from Hong Kong and other oriental finds imbue the interior with the family’s life story.

“The interiors are bright and engaging, but also warm and relaxing,” says Di. “When I look at parts of the house, I think, ‘Oh my God, how do you pull all those colours together so beautifully?’ Our home makes me feel full of energy.” And that suits this vibrant family perfectly.

ADULTS’ LOUNGE (below and opposite, bottom) A palette that says ‘pow’ and a mix of contemporary and vintage pieces create a lounge that feels

lively but lived in. “Despite its vibrancy it’s really relaxing,” says Di (pictured opposite). “There’s also a study, desk and bookshelf built into the wall, so |I do a lot of reading here.” Brett paired Di’s sofa (see King’s ‘Plaza’ for similar) with reupholstered vintage chairs. “Contemporary pieces are lovely, but vintage pieces bring a story and add layers to your interior,” he says. “Also, the mixed periods of vintage diffuses the lines of what particular period it is and gives the design longevity.” The ‘Matter’ cement square coffee tables in Ivory from CB2 and acid yellow ISO 1 sculpture by Rudi LoveApple bring contemporary flair and pop against walls in Dulux Grape Leaf. “I wanted a special painting – something that reflected the other colours,” says Di of Winter Afternoon by John Boker (below). Another beautiful artwork, Dana Dion’s Morning Harbour (opposite, bottom) completes the scheme. >

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‘DITA’ STOOLS (BOTTOM LEFT) GRAZIA & CO CABINET HANDLES INDEX + CO TAPWARE CEA DESIGN CUSTOM VASE ON ISLAND NATALIE ROSIN RUG (OPPOSITE) INTERNATIONAL FLOORCOVERINGS ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

KITCHEN “This kitchen not only makes me smile, but it’s also highly functional and easy to keep clean,” says Di, who loves to bake her favourite honey bread for the family at weekends in her AEG ovens (bottom left). The walls and Shaker-style cabinetry by EKD wear glorious Dulux Grape Leaf with confidence, while a striking Hong Kong cityscape, Typhoon Warning by Francesco Lietti, takes pride of place opposite the Carrara Quantum Quartz island from Granite & Marble Works (top left and bottom right). “This was an important piece,” says Di of the painting. “It’s special to us and evokes many memories so I asked Brett to use it as inspiration.” A collection of vases from Blu Dot, The DEA Store and Lunatique (top right) echo the buildings and colours in the picture. PANTRY (top left) “An out-of-view but accessible pantry is a must-have with five children all using appliances,” says Di. DINING The custom ‘Simon Says’ table by Dowel Jones is a family favourite for dinners and entertaining, and it comfortably seats 10 on sunflower yellow Cantarutti ‘Anja’ chairs (try Eurofurn). A vintage abstract artwork by Jen Ellis from Rudi Rocket matches the yellow and green tones in the room, while an ornate chandelier already owned by Di brings a unique twist.

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vivid neutrals A neutral setting doesn’t need to be, well, neutral. “Some people think dark colour makes a room darker, but using Dulux Grape Leaf here and matching the curtains creates a blended background which acts as a neutral,” says Brett. “It makes these elements ‘disappear’, leaving furniture and artwork to define the space. Also, choosing curtains in the same colour creates a soft silhouette without being overpowering.” Curtains in Élitis fabric by Coco’s Soft Furnishings. Visit cocos.net.au and dulux.com.au. >

Beautiful HOMES

“THE CUSTOMMADE headboard CAPTURES THE ASPECT OUTSIDE THE WINDOW beautifully” DI

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ILLUSTRATION KENZIEDESIGN.COM CUSTOM BLINDS MADE WITH FABRIC BY (ABOVE LEFT) DIANE BERGERON AND (ABOVE RIGHT) IAN MANKIN (TRY FABRIC STUDIO) FLOOR & WALL TILES (ABOVE RIGHT) OLDE ENGLISH TILES LETTUCE VASE VINTAGE FIND TAPWARE REESE HANDLES INDEX + CO IL FANALE ‘MOLECOLA’ PENDANT LIGHT (OPPOSITE) LIGHTCO ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Beautiful HOMES

OLIVIA’S BEDROOM (above left) A harmonious marriage of vintage and contemporary fills Olivia’s room with personality. A floral bedhead (get the look with Sanderson fabric from Domestic Textile) and vintage-shop painting sit next to a ‘Lap 2 Door’ credenza from Blu Dot and ‘Bear Perch’ table lamp by Stephanie Ng Design (try Luna Luna). “The credenza is contemporary, but the panelling is a lovely tick to Federation style,” says Brett.

LAUNDRY (above right) Dulux Clunies (upper wall and joinery) and Dulux Lexicon Quarter bring a fresh, clean look to a room that punches above “A hanging rack is around the corner and all the storage under the staircase, where I keep linen, is really clever,” says Di. MAIN BEDROOM (opposite) “I wanted this to feel comfortable and knew Brett would turn it into something calming,” says Di. “It isn’t vibrant, but it isn’t bland either – it’s just a different application of colours.” Bedside tables from Hong Kong inspired the Dulux Chintz Grey on the walls, and the headboard upholstered in Zoffany ‘Verdure’ fabric (try Domestic Textile) nods to nature. On the table, an Arteriors ‘Tassel’ lamp from Boyd Blue makes a statement and Tumi-isi ‘Stacking Blocks’ from Provider Store whimsically reflects the palette. The curtains were made with Virginia White fabric from Tigger Hall Design. >

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Beautiful HOMES

ALFRESCO Brett knew Mike “would live outside 365 days a year if

he could” and built an outdoor kitchen with all the bells and whistles, selecting louvered covering by Vergola for year-round practicality.

“Mike loves it and uses the Weber barbecue and smoker all the time,” says Di of the custom bench by Townsend Landscaping. Fermob ‘Bellevie’ furniture from Design Nation makes this a favourite spot.

“A friend’s tip to have a built-in ice machine was fantastic,” says Di of the Devanti life-saver. “How many people go and buy ice when they have a barbecue? If you want ice on hand for a vodka, lime and soda – like I do – it’s great!” A ‘Circula’ side table from Blu Dot and cushions in Osborne & Little fabric from Domus Textiles continue the blue theme.

Source book Interior design: Brett Mickan, 0439 888 581, bmid.com.au.

Builder: Cape Cod Australia, (02) 9849 4444, capecod.com.au.

Kitchen and joinery: EKD (Euro Kitchen Design), (02) 9604 4476, ekdkitchensandjoinery.com.

Landscaping: Townsend Landscaping, 0408 816 946, townsendlandscaping.com.au, @townsend_landscaping.

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BOLD BEAUTY

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INSIDE STORY

Di and Mike’s home

TABLE LAMP (#1) ORIENT HOUSE ARTWORKS (#1) DANA DION (#3) JOANNA GOMBATTO (#5) JEN ELLIS (#7) VINTAGE FIND ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

4 1. Lulu the cavoodle grabs a spot on a vintage chair reupholstered in Gaston y Daniela fabric (try Domestic Textile).

2. Hallway walls in Dulux Delta Break offset Lexicon Quarter wainscoting.

3. Custom cushions in Gaston y Daniela and Osborne & Little fabrics by Coco’s Soft Furnishings enliven the living area.

The ‘Lens’ sconce is from West Elm. 4. Flaxfield bedlinen from Ivy Lane and custom cushions in Brochier’s dotted ‘Puffo’ in 005 Limone from South Pacific Fabrics dazzle in the main bedroom.

5. Natural light brightens the dining area.

6. A collection of wall plates from Dutch designers Studio DeSimone-Wayland makes a unique statement in the hallway.

7. In The Sac bedlinen and half-walls in Dulux Mauve Stone finish Olivia’s room.

Who lives here?

Di, a fintech company owner; husband Mike, an electrician; their children, Joshua, 16, Lachlan, 15, Eloise, 12, twins Harry and Olivia, nine; and cavoodles Frankie and Lulu.

Why do you love colour?

Di: “It makes me feel alive and gives me energy. While the house is bright and engaging, it feels relaxing, not busy.

The children love the colour, too.”

Your favourite place to relax?

“I love sitting in the ‘adults’ lounge’ reading, with classical music on in the background.

Mike’s favourite spot is on the lounge outside.”

How did you balance vintage with contemporary pieces?

Brett (designer): “A few vintage mixed in with contemporary pieces make them feel special, like a piece of art. A whole room of vintage would feel more like a set from ‘The Sullivans’!”

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Open HOUSE A HERITAGE COTTAGE, WHICH HAS BEEN REVIVED WITH A MIX OF MODERN AND VINTAGE DESIGN, IS NOW A PLACE WHERE ENTERTAINING IS ALWAYS ON THE MENU Story GRAHAM WOOD Photography ELSA YOUNG

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STORY COURTESY OF BUREAUX

Beautiful HOMES

AMONG THE TREES With a manicured garden as its main drawcard, the transformation of this heritage cottage was about bringing the outdoors in. Homeowners Nicola and Guy, pictured opposite on the back porch with daughters Paige (left) and Olivia, and Jack the whippet, knew it just needed a little love. The porch provides views of the lush surroundings and is a favourite entertaining spot. “We love relaxing with friends and family out there and the sunsets are epic,” says Nicola. Christmas the cat (above) can also vouch for the views. >

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un-drenched and pared back, the cosy cottage of homeowners Nicola and Guy emanates a sense of calm and creativity. The couple live here with their daughters Olivia, 12, and Paige, nine – it’s the perfect antithesis for their busy family life.

“We both have a creative eye and like beautiful spaces,” says Guy of the home that is functional and sleek. Running his own business, The Bowery, which does everything from catering to meal kits, Guy is what you might call a “food entrepreneur”, while Nicola works as an art director at an advertising agency.

Initially, the couple chose their home in Johannesburg, South Africa, for its beautiful terraced gardens and sunset views. The house itself, however, was dark and poky. “But it had nice bits, like the pressed metal ceilings,” Nicola concedes. It was exactly 100 years old when they decided to renovate. “I didn’t think we were going to renovate,” says Guy. “I thought we were going to paint it, and maybe add a garage.”

Architect Victoria de la Cour provided advice and drew up plans for them and Guy took on the project management. While they preserved the pressed metal ceilings, the original Oregon pine sprung floors needed to be replaced. They chose cushiony engineered oak floors that Guy says are so luxurious, “you just want to lie on them.” Some carefully inserted glass stacking doors and windows brought much-needed light into the interiors and opened them out onto the gardens.

The predominantly black-and-white palette wasn’t planned. One reason was that the artworks Guy and Nicola had collected tended to be black-and-white prints. Less whimsical was the fact that the house ended up with black window and door frames and mostly white walls.

The frames were a conscious decision, but the walls were a choice by default. “We tried to paint some of the interior walls a colour,” says Nicola. “But it was just too dark, so we decided to paint everything white to start with and see what happened after that. And they just stayed that way.” Their bedroom remains a muted grey green, as does the TV room. Paige’s room is a colour she was in love with.

With sleek black window frames and crisp white walls as an architectural base, and black-and-white artworks, it was almost inevitable that the interiors and furniture would follow suit. “And my favourite colour is black,” adds Nicola. “It also seems quite practical with dogs and kids.” The eclecticism of their furnishings, particularly the easy combination of old and new, harmonised perfectly with the mixture of contemporary and century-old architectural features.

The kitchen, of course, was crucial to Guy, and while he says he might have tended towards a test kitchen look, he concedes that it “had to look pretty”. Nicola points out that because the kitchen is open to the living and dining areas, it was made to recede, to be “nothing” as she puts it. It’s small, but that encouraged a very careful consideration on Guy’s part of what he needed and what’s actually superfluous, so it is designed to have everything he needs, and absolutely nothing more.

It’s an approach that percolates through to the rest of the home, where the decisions are clear and the restraint admirable. Together with the coherence of the palette, the combination of original and contemporary architecture with vintage and modern design achieves that holy grail of lifestyle and design: tranquility. The perfect canvas for life.

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LIVING AREA The living area has been opened up and simplified, but still has designated spaces, including a lounge, TV room, study nook and

ARTWORK (THIS PAGE) ARTIST UNKNOWN

dining area. Vintage-store finds rub shoulders with sleek contemporary South African design pieces such as the sofas, sideboard and coffee table from Mezzanine Interiors (for similar coffee table, try Globe West). In the TV room, Jack snoozes on a sofa by Tonic Design. Guy’s favourite piece in the home is a 1950s timber Ercol ‘Studio’ couch in the central space. “We found this collectible piece in a little vintage shop inside a gas station in Cape Town,” says Guy of the item that harmonises with the narrative of classic meets modern design. (For a similar Ercol couch, try Temperature Design.) Another treasured piece is the Houtlander diner bench (opposite bottom) that sits at the vintage table in the dining area. Above the side table (opposite top) are a pair of graphic prints by Jonathan Garrett. >

“IN WINTER, THE FIREPLACE IS the soul of the space AND EVERYONE GRAVITATES TO IT. IT’S WONDERFUL HOW IT FEELS so cosy” NICOLA

Beautiful HOMES

“WHEN WE’RE setting up FOR GUESTS TO ARRIVE... THE HOUSE FEELS extra special IN ANTICIPATION OF A party” NICOLA

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vintage lighting

ARTWORKS (OPPOSITE PAGE) ‘CLOUDS OF UNKNOWING’ BY ROBYN PENN ALL OTHER ARTWORKS ARTISTS UNKNOWN

A simple way to modernise a heritage home without losing its sense of history is through light fixtures. Nicola and Guy replaced lighting in the main area with pendants gathered from antique shops and the classic designer Anglepoise lamps picked up from vintage shops appear throughout the home. Visit beaconlighting.com.au and cultdesign.com.au.

KITCHEN Guy, a professional cook and food entrepreneur put a great deal of thought into streamlining the home’s kitchen (above & left). The minimalist handle-less drawers and cabinets all but disappear and keep it unimposing, while the Carrara marble benchtops add a touch of luxury.

“We just used birch plywood for a while until we could replace that with some Carrara marble,” says Nicola. Between the kitchen benchtop and the patio is a long window that neatly stacks away and its an absolute gift to Guy, who loves to fill the big patio table with family and friends on weekends, sometimes with more than one ‘sitting’ a day. “I put all the platters out on the kitchen counter and people can serve themselves,” he says. Apart from having a perfect vantage point from which he can enjoy the sunset while he cooks up a storm in the kitchen, he’s never excluded from the action when guests are on the patio. DINING AREA Thanks to windows that extend to the floor, light streams into the dining zone (right) where Nicola loves spending time. “The table is ’50s deco and is very banged up,” says Nicola of her favourite vintage piece and says you can see this “when you open the leaf that’s hidden inside and compare the protected wood to the wood that’s been through the daily grind.” For a similar cabinet, try Provincial Home Living. >

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MAIN BEDROOM “This was the first piece of art we bought together,”

says Nicola of the photo print by Ross Garrett titled Doug in the couple’s bedroom. “I love how it feels like it could have been shot in the ’70s or yesterday.” Stacking aluminium doors open onto the garden, allowing a connection with the outside. ENSUITE In the ensuite, the shape of the bath (try Reece) is reflected in the oval basin and mirror while the built-in shelf beside the bath is a clever detail. “Nicola came up with the idea so she’d have a place to put candles and plants,” says Guy. >

Beautiful HOMES

“THE VIEW OUT THE ENSUITE WINDOW IS OF A lush garden WITH VIBURNUM SHRUBS AND A monkey thorn tree” NICOLA

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Beautiful HOMES

Source book Architect: Victoria de la Cour, facebook.com/vdlcarchitect.

Interiors: Nicola Bower Building project manager: Guy Bower

OUTDOOR AREA “The patio has

unbelievable sunset views through the plane tree,” shares Guy. “Even in winter, I find myself in a jacket sitting outside to see the sunset.”

Below this, the terraced gardens cascade down to the swimming pool. The garden, designed by former owner and landscaper Tim Conradie is a play zone for Olivia (above left) and Paige, as well as whippets Jack (above) and Chloe and Christmas the cat.

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VINTAGE REVIVAL

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Nicola & Guy's home Who lives here?

Nicola, an art director and creative director in advertising, and Guy, entrepreneur and owner of The Bowery with their children, Olivia, 12, Paige, nine; whippets Jack, 10, Chloe, six and their cat Christmas, two.

What was your best decision?

Nicola: “The kitchen window that folds open for entertaining and the pill-shaped windows Victoria designed.”

Do you have advice to others renovating an older building “Save or restore whatever bits of character and detail you can while you’re modernising.”

Best way to mix old and new?

“Classic pieces and clean lines contrasted with details on older parts.”

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PRODUCT (#5) PEDRALI ‘VOLT’ CHAIR BY CLAUDIO DONDOLI AND MARCO POCCI ARTWORK (#5) MURAL BY NICOLA BOWER USING ‘LANDSCAPE WITH A VIEW OF A CITY, SCHELTE ADAMSZ. BOLSWERT, AFTER PETER PAUL RUBENS, 1596–1659

4 6 1. A vintage Anglepoise lamp in the kitchen helps soften the clean lines.

2. Light spills into the home through the glass pivot door at the front entrance.

3. The fireplace has been positioned between the living and dining area to warm both spaces in the cooler months.

4. Nicola’s beloved Arabescato marble features in the children’s bathroom.

5. In Olivia’s room, a mural created by Nicola is paired with a soft grey rug.

6. Paige sits in her room at a vintage wooden table surrounded with Harry Bertoia-style children-sized chairs.

7. The shape of the mirror and sink in the main bathroom echo each other.

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Beautiful HOMES

COUNTRY MANNER

LEAVING THE CITY BEHIND FOR LIFE IN THE COUNTRY HELD NO REGRETS FOR THIS FAMILY WHEN IT PROVIDED THE OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD THEIR DREAM HOME Story STEPHANIE HOPE Styling LISA BURDEN Photography NATALIE HUNFALVAY

GRAND ENTRY Walking in the front door of her home, owner Annelise instantly feels a sense of calm. A round rug from Mossy Store on top of wide

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engineered oak floorboards is a comfy spot to stop and shed her coat and keys. A console from Top 3 by Design and RJ Living mirror add to the area’s practicality, while the grey door paint – Porter’s Paints Shell Grey – continues in the kitchen, butler’s pantry and living joinery. EXTERIOR “I love the freshness and simplicity of an all-white facade,” says Annelise, who opted for a Colorbond roof in Surfmist and matching weatherboard cladding (opposite). Landscaper Nick Wilkinson of Red Arrow Landscapes worked his magic. “The previous owners were avid gardeners and had lots of special trees in the back area – Nick expertly transplanted them to the front to create a stunning entry, saving us thousands in the process,” says Annelise.

Decorative iron balls were found at Hunter & Gatherer Collections, and the RustyRose Designs woodstacker came from Dirty Janes in Bowral. >

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itting on a sweeping half-hectare block, A n n e l i s e’s br ic k bungalow home is surrounded by some majestic gardens.

While working from her home office, the busy corporate executive enjoys an outlook of evergreen trees and Japanese maples that change colour with the seasons. “This constant view of nature is a great counterbalance to my busy work days,” says Annelise, who also co-owns vintage and secondhand furniture marketplace Curated Spaces.

In 2018, she and husband Oliver made the decision to relocate with their children, Henry, 12, and Elke, 10, from Sydney’s eastern suburbs to the NSW Southern Highlands – and they haven’t looked back. “Our kids’ school in Sydney had almost no outdoor space, and running in the playground had just been banned; it didn’t feel like the childhood either of us had,” recalls Annelise. “Friends had recently moved to the Highlands and we decided to explore this option for our own family.”

As is often the case, the couple couldn’t go past the first property they viewed. “The house, while not really our style, had a lovely family feel,” says Annelise. “I watched the kids run straight down to the back garden where a swing was hanging from a huge deodar pine and I was sold. Seeing them instantly gravitate to being outside on a big expanse of grass and climbing trees, it just felt right.”

They lived in the home for a year before embarking on a complete rebuild, expertly guided by close friend and architectural designer Sally Wilkins. “Sally has lived in the Highlands for longer than us and understands the importance of designing for the seasons,” explains Annelise. “She was able to suggest things we would have regretted not including, like having a separate family entrance for muddy boots.”

Together, they created a flowing, flexible floor plan that takes better advantage of the home’s north-facing aspect and includes options for entertaining and family-friendly features. There’s an expansive kitchen

filled with bespoke storage, a private parents’ retreat with walk-in wardrobe, a lounge room with fireplace, dedicated kids’ retreat and a charming laundry and mudroom with a Dutch door – “possibly my favourite thing”, declares Annelise. “One of the best things about a rebuild is that you can design your space exactly as you need. Everything was considered against our lifestyle and needs, which means it’s a very easy house to live in.”

A central dining and sunroom was a pivotal piece, featuring raked ceilings and windows on all sides as an easy link to the outdoors. At one end, books line the windowsill and two plump couches are a cosy spot to read – while at the other, an eight-seater dining setting is ideal for hosting dinner parties or poring over the papers. “It works so well; there are beautiful views no matter where you’re sitting,” says Annelise.

Throughout, the base palette has been kept fresh and neutral – white walls, natural stone benchtops, warm engineered oak floors and sisal carpets – with blues and greys in the living spaces. “Covid had an impact on supply and there were a few last-minute pivots with our finishes, but I’m really happy with the substitutes we found,” says Annelise. “We also sourced a lot of items locally, which felt good.”

Much of the existing furniture had been chosen specifically for their Sydney home and didn’t suit their country idyll, so Annelise sold the lot on Curated Spaces and started afresh with sumptuous lounges, stately chairs and timber chest side tables. Tufted rugs, handmade ceramics, plump cushions and indoor greenery bring colour and energy, as do special lighting pieces. “I love the ambience that feature lighting provides and chose some beautiful pendants for the kitchen, bedroom and dining, along with gorgeous sconces in the bathrooms and entry,” she says.

And outside, there’s room to roam, to relax, to breathe, be it on the huge deck that spills out from the kitchen, dining and sunroom, the paved sandstone area with fire pit and outdoor seating or by the pool.

“Possibly the best way to describe our home is ‘calming’,” says Annelise.

“It’s a real oasis and I feel instantly relaxed when I walk in the door.”

KITCHEN The family’s kitchen has a stacked design with a butler’s pantry behind. “Sally and I spent a huge amount of time designing the space

to ensure there was a place for everything,” says Annelise (pictured). “There’s even a special storage area for sharp knives.” Dogal Light Grey marble from Surface Gallery features in the benchtops and splashback with 2-pack polyurethane cabinetry in Porter’s Paints Shell Grey. Custom orb pendants from Studio Enti, Annelise’s favourite ceramicist, cast a warm glow over the island at night, while Mattiazzi ‘Branca’ bar stools from their previous home (try District) were cut down to size. The ‘Manhattan’ mixer in weathered organic brass is from Brodware. >

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ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Beautiful HOMES

“OPEN SHELVING EITHER SIDE OF THE RANGEHOOD SHOWS OFF MY beautiful ceramic pieces IN COLOURS THAT COMPLEMENT THE MARBLE AND PAINTWORK” ANNELISE

Beautiful HOMES LIVING AREA This is one of Annelise’s favourite rooms. “It’s a perfect space for the family to come together and watch movies, or for guests to relax in before and after dinner,” she says. The Coast to Country Custom Furniture sofas are ideal for sinking into after a long day, and have been paired with Walter G cushions, a custom rug from The Maine House, coffee table from Trit House and ‘Puspa’ wall hanging from The Dharma Door. A crackling fireplace from Highland Fires & BBQs earns its keep in winter. For a similar floor lamp, try Fat Shack Vintage. The artworks were vintage finds.

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“I LIKE TO KEEP THINGS FAIRLY neutral and timeless, THEN USE LIGHTING AND HOMEWARES TO MAKE THE BLANK CANVAS more of a home” ANNELISE

rustic wares To give her home some country character and those lovely lived-in layers, Annelise browses vintage stores, including her own, Curated Spaces, for pre-loved treasures. “I recently found some wooden chests made from old railway sleepers at Berrima Village Pottery, and a vintage elm bench from Few & Far in Bowral,” she shares. Visit curatedspaces.com.au, @berrima_village_pottery and fewandfar.com.au. >

Beautiful HOMES

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“THE SUNROOM IS DESIGNED TO BE a peaceful place TO READ, WITH GLASS EVERYWHERE TO BRING the outside in”

DINING AREA A Coast to Country Custom Furniture dining table is just the ticket for rowdy dinner parties or intimate meals. “I bought Thonet

bentwood dining chairs as a nod to my family home,” says Annelise. “I love having items familiar and significant from childhood dotted around.”

The pendant above is from The Society Inc. by Sibella Court. SUNROOM “In the original house you walked in the front door and there was a wall in front of you, totally concealing the amazing views of the beautiful gardens,” says Annelise. “This new sunroom [opposite] and dining space addressed that problem perfectly.” She and Oliver can sit on the Coast to Country Custom Furniture sofas with a book, or fix themselves a drink from the sideboard, also from Coast to Country Custom Furniture. “Mary Valley Food Co preserved lemons, limes and oranges make the best cocktails!” she shares. Chairs from Hunter & Gatherer Collections, a Tribe Home rug and a coffee table from Living Interiors complete the space. >

Beautiful HOMES

“I LOVE CATCHING SIGHT OF THE beautiful finishes THAT WE SELECTED AS I GO ABOUT MY DAY” ANNELISE

MAIN BEDROOM “I wanted to keep the bedroom pared back,” explains Annelise. She selected a custom bedhead from Peoni Home, bedlinen from Cultiver and Bed Threads and pleated linen lampshades on linen cords from Curated Spaces. ENSUITE An oasis of calm, the ensuite (opposite)

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features marble-lined niches, ceramic ‘Terra 2’ wall sconces from Lighting Collective, a Reece bathtub that looks out to the trees and heated floors for cold Southern Highlands mornings. “We chose the colour Squid Ink by Porter’s Paints for the vanity – I love the depth that it brings,” says Annelise. >

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Source book Design & interiors: Sally Wilkins Studio, @sallywilkinsstudio.

Builder: KMI Builders, 0409 748 456, kmibuilders.com.au.

Kitchen & joinery: Cobbitty Grove Kitchens, (02) 4647 9900, cobbittygrove.com.au.

Landscaping: Nick Wilkinson, Red Arrow Landscapes, 0438 283 785, redarrowlandscapes.com.au.

Painter: Carmel Interiors, 0410 651 013, carmelinteriors.com.

DECK “The original house had very little outdoor entertaining

space and limited access,” says Annelise. “We now have decks and sandstone paved areas on both sides.” Planters from Welby Garden Centre are dotted along the front and rear decks, with wall sconces from Alpha Lighting illuminating the area for evenings.

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HIGHLAND BEAUTY

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Annelise & Oliver’s home

ARTWORKS (#1) A VINTAGE FIND ON DESK (#4) KATE KNAPP ON SHELF (#4) UNKNOWN ARTIST DRYING RACK (#6) GEORGE & WILLY

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Who lives here?

Annelise, VP of talent acquisition at American Express and co-owner of Curated Spaces; her husband Oliver, marketing and PR consultant and co-owner/director of Berrima Vault House; their children Henry, 12, and Elke, nine; and pets Ned the fox red labrador puppy, Clover the cockalier and Claude and Basil the cats.

Must-have inclusions?

Annelise: “Marble in the kitchen and bathroom. Despite the high maintenance, I love it. And sisal carpets suit the country setting perfectly.”

Favourite local shopping spots?

“Suzie Anderson Home, The Bronte Tram and Hunter & Gatherer Collections are great for decorative pieces.”

Future plans for your home?

“We’re in the process of extending the garage to include a gym, sauna and second office.”

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1. A Flos ‘CopyCat’ lamp by Michael Anastassiades is one of the pieces that remain from the family’s previous home.

2. Annelise is happy the facade isn’t the originally intended all black. “The white looks so homely and inviting,” she says.

3. Brass drawer pulls from Hepburn Hardware match the rust streak in the Dogal marble from Surface Gallery.

4. A study nook in daughter Elke’s room.

“I’m a big fan of built-ins and everything having its place,” says Annelise.

5. Purpose-built drawers and shelves make the couple’s walk-in robe a delight.

6. The laundry doubles as a mudroom, with a custom Dutch door by Evalock.

7. A relaxed lifestyle attracted the family to the NSW Southern Highlands.

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Multiple Ovens

Belling (BRD1100DFCB) 1100mm Colour Boutique Richmond Deluxe Dual Fuel Range Cooker, in Country Blue, $10,499.

Cast Iron Griddle Plate (083638700), $199. Morphy Richards 1.5L Accents Rose Gold Pyramid Kettle – White (102108), $149. Morphy Richards Accents Rose Gold 4-Slice Toaster – White (242108) $149.

Boasting a 41L compact oven, twin multi-function ovens and a 41L slow cook oven (224L in total), the Richmond Deluxe Dual Fuel Range Cooker has more than enough capacity to cater to the most demanding of home chefs.

The Belling Colour Boutique Collection

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Colour your K itchen Inspired by the glamour of the Italian Riviera, and combined with the latest in cooking technology, the Smeg Portofino freestanding range features exceptional materials, innovative construction, and commanding style to bring sophistication to any kitchen.

Effortless and Efficient With five separate cooking zones in a variety of sizes and ratings, the Smeg Portofino Induction Freestanding Cooker provides precision and extremely accurate temperature control. Heat is only generated when the pan comes into direct contact with a specific cooking zone, ensuring safety in the kitchen. This helps optimise power consumption, only using the energy needed to heat the pan itself.

Robust yet Refined The Portofino design makes a statement in any kitchen, while the Ligurian Harbourinspired palette brings the Mediterranean into the heart of the home. More than just a visual statement, Smeg’s ground-breaking technology can also bring your oven to 200°C in just six minutes.

Smeg (CPF9IPR) 900mm Portofino Induction Freestanding Cooker in Coral Red, $9990; 900mm Portofino Wallmount Rangehood (KPFA9RD) in Coral Red, $2990. Smeg 50s Retro Style Espresso Coffee Machine – Cream (ECF01CRAU), $549.

The Smeg Portofino Colour Collection

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Colour your K itchen From the solid brass burners to the dual oven doors, every ILVE freestanding cooker is passionately constructed by a dedicated team of craftspeople in Italy.

Designed and HandMade in Italy Each freestanding cooker is handbuilt by ILVE's assembly technicians, ensuring the highest quality construction. Features such as solid brass burners with non-stick coating, soft-close doors and precision thermostatic control set this cooker apart. Available in three styles, choice of colour and metal, brass, copper, chrome or bronze styling options for a truly custom kitchen centrepiece.

ILVE (P128DWE3/RAL) 1200mm Professional Plus Cooker in Moss Grey, $15,999. KitchenAid KSM160 Artisan Stand Mixer – Onyx Black (5KSM160PSAOB), $799.

Two Ovens in One Versatility is at the heart of this advanced cooking system, which offers both a 97L and 43L cavity oven to suit all your kitchen needs. Select from 15 multi-function cooking modes, a controlled steam exhaust, electronic temperature control and integrated twin-cavity cooling system in order to reach the perfect cooking conditions every time. This A-class energy rated system also includes sealed ovens for lower temperatures and controlled cooking.

Choose your ILVE Size & Colour to suit. Available in 213 Custom Colours

600mm

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Colour your K itchen Falcon have been manufacturing freestanding cookers at the same historic site in Royal Leamington Spa in the UK for more than 190 years, where they are still found today.

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Adaptable Cooktop Meticulously designed, Falcon cookers deliver on performance and aesthetics, with two different fuel types to choose from, including gas or induction cooktops. With six gas burners, including a wok burner, plus optional extras such as a handyrack and a griddle plate for searing and grilling, the Falcon Elise 110 Dual Fuel Cooker makes it simple to prepare a wide range of cuisines to suit large gatherings or intimate dinners.

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Featuring both a multi-function and fan forced electric oven with two telescopic shelves and a variety of added functions, such as grilling, base heat and browning elements, this cooker is prepared for every recipe.

Falcon (ELS110DFCAN) Elise 1100mm Dual Fuel Freestanding Cooker in China Blue, $12,994. Breville the Bakery Chef Hub Stand Mixer – Sea Salt (LEM750SST2JAN1), $499.

The Falcon Elise Colour Collection

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BEAUTIFUL

HAMPTONS HOMES

PHOTOGRAPHY MARTINA GEMMOLA STYLING AIMEE TARULLI

around Australia

Inspiration and ideas for your own Australian Hamptons haven IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Hamptons HOMES

Soft TOUCH

HOLIDAYING IN THE HAMPTONS INSPIRES A MELBOURNE FAMILY TO BUILD A COASTAL RETREAT THAT RADIATES AN ELEGANT BALANCE OF MODERN AND TRADITIONAL Story JESSICA BELLEF Styling AIMEE TARULLI Photography MARTINA GEMMOLA

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FRESH TAKE Hamptons style doesn’t have to be all-white and highly embellished. This new build in a bayside Melbourne suburb offers a modern

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

approach to the traditional look. “I wanted to keep true to the Hamptons aesthetic, but include a few modern details,” explains homeowner Almira (pictured, with daughter Imani, 10, and son Will, eight). In the kitchen, clean lines and a soft grey and white palette shine, with Shaker cabinetry, Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo benchtops, island joinery in Dulux Mason Grey and ‘Ingolf’ stools from Ikea. Carrara Bianco marble splashback tiles from Beaumont Tiles and ‘Goodman’ pendant lights from The Montauk Lighting Co. add a touch of luxe. On the exterior (opposite), Monier ‘Horizon’ roof tiles emulate the textured look of shingles, while James Hardie Scyon Linea cladding is in Dulux Endless Dusk, with trims and a picket fence finished in Dulux Lexicon Half. “With so many Hamptons houses popping up in our area, it’s interesting to see the different interpretations,” says Almira. >

Hamptons HOMES

KITCHEN Dark ‘Saddle’ French oak flooring from Made By Storey continues through the ground level (above). “It has raw knots and detail, giving it a warmth that plays against the lovely soft grey,” says interior designer Aimee Tarulli. “It brings the Hamptons feel to life and gives the cosiness we want.” Black ‘Terrace’ handles from Castella on the kitchen’s lower cabinets can be found on the joinery throughout the home. The cabinetry is in Dulux Lexicon Half. DINING (opposite) Almira enjoys adding layers to the neutral palette of Dulux Manorburn Double walls and the dark flooring.

The dining is appointed with a ‘Hamptons X-Base’ timber table from Maison Living, cross-back chairs from Dare Gallery and an elegant ‘Bryant’ light fitting from The Montauk Lighting Co. A commissioned artwork by Chalie MacRae Art and a Temple & Webster rug add a subtle touch of blue. >

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FRIDGE-FREEZER LG COOKTOP AND OVENS BOSCH COFFEE MACHINE IN PANTRY BREVILLE ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

A

lmira fell in love with the Hamptons look when she lived in New York with her f inance-executive husband Brad for three years during the mid-aughts. They would visit the glittering coastal enclaves of Montauk and the Hamptons and gush over the character-filled abodes with grand gables, shingled roofs and white picket fences.

“We always knew, if we had the opportunity to build, that would be the style of home we would create,” says the stay-at-home mum.

Fast-forward to 2019, when Tasmanian-born Almira, Brad and their two children, Imani and Will (now 10 and eight), moved into their own Hamptons-inspired retreat nestled into the Melbourne bayside suburb of Highett.

The two-storey new construction sits on a quiet street lined with Californian bungalows and charming weatherboards. For Almira and Brad, it was important that their house complemented the streetscape and radiated understated coastal Hamptons chic.

Creating their dream home from scratch gave them the opportunity to do it their own way. “I think, regardless of whether you go with a modern Australian interpretation or keep it traditional, it’s a timeless style of build with striking street appeal,” says Almira.

The couple worked with boutique building and design company Thomas Archer, selecting a model floor plan and tweaking it to suit their 615m2 block, local council requirements and the needs of their growing family. “The priority was having zoned living,” says Almira, explaining the value they place on open spaces designated for togetherness balanced by private, separate areas for quiet moments.

Excitement levels peaked when choosing the hard finishes and fittings with Aimee Tarulli, a Thomas Archer interior designer.

“A soft palette ENABLES FLEXIBILITY. AS TASTES CHANGE OR NEW PIECES ARE ACQUIRED, THE SPACE IS easy to customise” AIMEE, INTERIOR DESIGNER

Drawing on Almira’s mass of inspiration images and her memories of the beachy homes on America’s east coast, they crafted a scheme of soft greys and textured dark timber flooring paired with fresh marble and white trims. The union of grey and white begins on the exterior, where James Hardie cladding is finished in Dulux Endless Dusk, contrasted by trims and a fence in Dulux Lexicon Half.

Custom joinery with a Shaker profile, detailed fireplace mantles and statement lighting add classic flourishes. “The cabinetry and finishes encapsulate that Hamptons feel, but it’s not overly ornate,” says Aimee. “It’s streamlined with a contemporary flavour, which allows the family to grow into the home and add their styling touches.”

The finishes offer a versatile foundation for decoration, which Almira has enjoyed doing 106

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slowly over time. “We’ve opted to go with blue accents throughout, but if we want to change it to a more neutral palette, we can easily do that,” she says. “It’s a work in progress but it works well for us and how we live in it now.”

On a winter’s day, you’ll find the family and their 18-year-old cat, Bella, gathered by the fire in the main living area, soaking up the undeniably cosy ambience. Comfortable living is an essential characteristic of a Hamptons home, in which soothing tones, feel-good materials and natural light combine to create interiors that draw you in and embrace you.

“That’s probably one of the things I love the most about the home – the warmth and its homely feel,” says Almira. “They say, ‘There’s no place like home’, and we get that. Stepping into our house after being away, I feel a sense of calm and it’s just beautiful.”

“GETTING THE light, bright PALETTE RIGHT WAS IMPORTANT IN CREATING THAT calming FEELING” AIMEE, INTERIOR DESIGNER

‘SERENA’ SIDE TABLE TEMPLE & WEBSTER ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Hamptons HOMES

LIVING (this page and opposite) A perfect balance of relaxed and refined, the open-plan living area by the kitchen is a magnet for the family, who

are drawn to the gas fire and the morning sunlight that streams through sheer curtains by Victory Curtains and Blinds. “It was important we got the symmetry and detail in the joinery by the fireplace to add a touch of formality,” explains Almira. She has curated a coastal Hamptons vibe by styling the linen-look sofas from Plush (one of the first furniture purchases she made for the home) with a ‘Sicily’ oak coffee table from Provincial Home Living, a vintage-look rug from Style My Home and soft blue cushions from Hamptons Style. >

Hamptons HOMES

“THE Australian TAKE ON THE HAMPTONS IS MORE understated BUT NO LESS BEAUTIFUL AND STRIKING” ALMIRA, HOMEOWNER

MIRROR (TOP LEFT) WEST ELM TAPWARE AND TOWEL HOLDER PHOENIX TAPWARE ‘ANJUNA’ SIDE TABLE (TOP RIGHT) ADAIRS ARTWORK (BOTTOM LEFT) UNKNOWN ARTIST ART LIGHT (BOTTOM RIGHT) THE MONTAUK LIGHTING CO. BLACK SCULPTURE WEST ELM ‘CHARMING’ CARPET (OPPOSITE) CARPET COURT ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

POWDER ROOM (top left) A custom vanity echoes the Shaker profile featured throughout the home, with a Villeroy & Boch ‘Loop & Friends’ sink, ‘Maximo White’ wall tiles from Beaumont Tiles and a pendant from The Montauk Lighting Co. IMANI’S BEDROOM (top right) The ‘Kensington’ velvet bedhead from Adairs and a faux fur throw from Wheel&Barrow create a vision of dusty pink tones. HALLWAY (bottom left) Bella the cat pads past the stairwell crafted with stained timber treads and railings in Dulux Lexicon Half. STUDY NOOK (bottom right) Walls in moody Dulux Ticking delineate a quiet zone featuring an original artwork by Debbie Mackenzie. MAIN BEDROOM (opposite) This serene, light-soaked room has bedding from Adairs and Weave Home, with an ‘Amalfi’ bench from Temple & Webster and curtains by Victory Curtains and Blinds. >

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Hamptons HOMES ENSUITE An expanse of classic ‘Navona Ice’ marble subway tiles from Beaumont Tiles make a statement here, incorporating a handy niche for bath products. A sculptural Caroma ‘Blanc’ freestanding bath, and black ‘Vivid Slimline’ tapware and ‘Radii’ towel ladder, both by Phoenix, lend a modern twist to a spa-like retreat – which, admits Almira, doesn’t get used as often as she’d like. “I need to make better use of it!” she says with a laugh.

The ‘Maximo White’ floor tiles are also from Beaumont Tiles.

Source book Builder and design: Thomas Archer, (03) 9999 5967, thomasarcher.com.au.

Window coverings: Victory Curtains and Blinds, 131 399, victoryblinds.com.au.

Lighting: The Montauk Lighting Co., (08) 9380 6239, montauklightingco.com.

STEAL THE STYLE 1

2

3 4

5 6

PHOTOGRAPHY ALANA LANDSBERRY PRODUCT STYLING LISA BURDEN

7 Get the look: 1. ‘Shape’ satin porcelain mosaic tiles in Carrara Gold, $7.81/29.1cm x 29.6cm sheet), Beaumont Tiles.

2. ‘Nolan’ stainless steel spoon in Soft Gold (part of a cutlery set), $179/16-piece set, Country Road. 3. ‘Theo’ oak salt and pepper dish in Natural, $19.95, Country Road. 4. ‘Saddle’ French oak floorboard, from $123.20/190cm x 19cm x 1.5cm, Made By Storey. 5. Hardie Fine Texture cladding by James Hardie (sample shown), from $111/244cm x 120cm x 0.85cm sheet), Bunnings. 6. ‘Maximo’ porcelain tile in White Matt (30cm x 60cm), $44.06/sqm, Beaumont Tiles. 7. ‘Terrace’ copper handle in Matt Black finish, $28.67/16cm, Castella.

8. ‘Calacatta Nuvo’ engineered stone surface, from $900/sqm, Caesarstone. 9. ‘Galet’ New Zealand wool carpet in Dolomite, from $170.50/sqm, Bremworth. 10. Hardie Fine Texture cladding by James Hardie (painted sample shown), from $111/244cm x 120cm x 0.85cm sheet), Bunnings. 11. ‘Dana’ napkin in Natural, $49.95/pack of four, Country Road.

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Hamptons HOMES

COASTAL HAMPTONS HAMPTONS DESIGN EXPERT NATALEE BOWEN TAKES US ON A TRIP TO THE COAST THIS MONTH

he Coastal Hamptons style is more relaxed in design than its high-end counterparts.

It is not contrived in any way and depletes the fuss of a classic look. Its simplicity is a favourite among Hamptons looks – pared back to simple lines and layers of white on white.

A true Hamptons home is more than just an interior design trend. It’s a complete way of life!

Australia’s beach-loving culture leads to a no-fuss, relaxed lifestyle that starts from the moment you see the home and continues throughout, with soft linen sofas, chairs and furnishings. Our climate is perfect for an indoor-outdoor flow of living spaces and for endless hours of backyard entertaining. We strive to create an eternal holiday at home.

THE FEATURES A Coastal Hamptons home has a deliciously simple recipe – you could even call it Design 101.

The linear weatherboard is an immediate giveaway that these homes are a Hamptons coastal favourite.

With a distinctive palette of white, the layers of detail include clean lines with architraves and popping mouldings that entice a relaxed feel. The external balustrade influences the look, either a simple spindle or a cross style that adds a touch of beach house, and a porthole detail blends beautifully.

You see a sea of white and immediately feel you can kick off your shoes, flop in a comfy linen chair and hear the rolling waves in the background.

On the walls, Hardie Groove Lining replaces your traditional wainscoting and can be taken up the walls and across the ceiling. When paired with white, exposed beams in a roof with a higher-than-normal pitch, this offers subtle texture. Timber floorboards in whitewashed oak are a must, dressed in layered jute and cotton rugs. The staircase should have square lines with simple spindles and continuing washed oak steps and handrails, to bring out the coastal feel.

As always in a Hamptons home, the kitchen here is a standout – but instead of heavy detail, adopt a less-is-more approach. Use simple shaker door fronts 112

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with little-to-no glass and a square post on the island. Hardware in antique brass gives a nod to the classic and creates an on-trend look that will last.

In the bathroom, vanities with a touch of rattan in the shaker front panel create the relaxed look, with vertical-joint wall panels to emphasise the space.

THE FURNITURE There are two different looks under the Coastal Hamptons banner – nautical and modern coastal.

The nautical style leans heavily into a palette of navy and white, with lots of striped upholstery, while timber furniture complemented with rattan textures keeps the space grounded. Linen sofas in a deep navy blue with contrasting white piping are dramatic and gorgeous, and a white console behind the sofa is an excellent opportunity for some vignette styling with collections of seashells, coral and glass cloches.

Striped slipcover dining chairs will keep it relaxed while incorporating another layer of patterned linens.

Lighting is always a feature, but with the nautical look we use more wooden finishes, with wrought iron touches and glass. Art could be layers of yachts, coral in blue tones and ocean images. It is not uncommon to have boat oars in a room, and you will likely find white Adirondack chairs around the pool.

The modern coastal style is lighter, with white on whites and touches of linen neutrals and light blues.

It speaks to our love of beachside living, with pastel blues to bring the beachy vibe inside. Whitewashed oak and white furniture with blonde rattan accents keep the space modern and cool. Soft blue linen sofas to relax in are essential, and forever-classic cross-back dining chairs with rattan seats are an easy choice.

Get creative with the materials used in statement lighting, with beautiful, beaded pendants in shell or wooden beads to communicate a beach aesthetic.

In a Coastal Hamptons home, you will find bowls of shells, coral and collectables around the coffee, side and console tables. Finally, add layers of books, to give height and an ease of picking up and flicking through pages of images to your heart’s content.

Above, from top: Room+Co ‘Santos’ armchair (includes cushion), $959, Living Styles.

‘Seashell Amon’ print, $395/ 46.5cm x 56.5cm (framed), Verandah House. Rexington Home ‘Evelyn’ fabric-covered stool, $775, Temple & Webster. Rattan lamp (includes shade), $468.95, and ‘Havana Sable’ cotton cushion, $79.95/50cm x 50cm, both Alfresco Emporium. ‘Clam Shell’ ceramic dish, $44.95/28cm, French Knot.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ANGELITA BONETTI (OPPOSITE) AMY SKINNER PHOTOGRAPHY STYLING (OPPOSITE) NATALEE BOWEN LA MESA BAY SHELL 4 ARTWORK (ON FIREPLACE) INDAH ISLAND

T

Words NATALEE BOWEN

Natalee has been in the design industry for over 20 years. An interior designer and principal at Indah Island, Natalee’s awardwinning work has been featured in magazines, social media and TV programs such as Dream Homes, Ready Set Reno, Luxury Homes Revealed, Best Houses Australia and Through the Front Gate.

Layers of linens, neutrals and plenty of nods to the sea with large shells and corals evoke coastal bliss in Natalee’s home.

“You see a sea of white and immediately feel you can kick off your shoes, flop in a comfy linen chair and hear the rolling waves in the background”

BEAUTIFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY MARNIE HAWSON

gardens

BIJOU BEAUTY

page 116

IDEAS AND INSPIRATION FOR STYLISH OUTDOOR LIVING

Beautiful GARDENS

BIJOU BEAUTY

A SMALL FOOTPRINT AND THE DESIRE TO CREATE A UNIQUE SPACE WITH LOWMAINTENANCE PLANTS LED TO A FULL OVERHAUL OF THIS DYNAMIC GARDEN Words LAURA BARRY Photography MARNIE HAWSON

R

ae was unsatisfied with the lawn-and-hedge front garden of her Brighton home in Victoria. It wasn’t thriving and she simply wanted something a little more interesting, something unique that she and her little dog Ruby could enjoy together. Naturally, she turned to Andrew Panton, landscape designer and director of Andrew Panton Design, to transform her patch of grass into a green paradise. “I had an existing relationship with Rae as I’ve done some design work for her in the past,” says Andrew.

“The design brief was to create a garden that felt special. It’s a small space but I could see the potential to create a real impact.”

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Stepping out

CHAL FOR D L I ME STON E PAVERS F ROM ECO OUT DO OR W ER E US ED TO CR EAT E TH E PATH. THE LA RGE AT L A NT I S OPIUM JAR PLA NT ER S FROM KELLOCK POTS & PLANTERS CONTAIN M AG N O LI A GRAN DI F LORA ‘ T E DDY BEA R’ U ND E RP L A N T ED WITH S OC IE T Y GAR LI C (T U L BAG HIA V I OL ACEA ‘AL BA’) W H I LE B O STO N IV Y (PARTH E NO CI S S US TRIC US PIDATA) GROWS A LO NG THE FE N CE. >

“I WOULD DESCRIBE THE GARDEN AS HAVING A sleek, contemporary LOOK…” ANDREW

Beautiful GARDENS Alfresco living

OU TDOOR FUR NI T UR E F RO M BOYD BLU E PROVI DE S THE IDE AL S POT FOR TA KI NG I N A VIE W OF THE GA RDEN WH ERE EN GLIS H B OX (BUXU S S EMPERV IRE N S ) ‘ TO PI ARY BAL L’ A PPEA RS AR OU ND THE STE PPE RS .

C HIN ESE W IS TE RIA (W IS TERIA S INEN SI S) T W INES A ROU ND T HE FRA ME OF T HE PERGO LA SO THAT I N T IM E IT W ILL COV E R I T.

“I WANTED THE GARDEN TO stand out AND HAVE A wow factor, WHILE KEEPING IT practical FOR RAE AND HER DOG RUBY” ANDREW

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DESIGN FEATURE

The style of Rae’s home is quite contemporary and Andrew wanted to create a garden that would not only complement the building but also incorporate as much greenery as possible.

The entire front garden was removed to make way for a textured design that uses scale and contrast to great effect. “We planted dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nana’) en masse to create a similar look and feel to regular lawn, but softer and more lush, and requiring minimal maintenance,” says Andrew, adding “The mondo grass has been great for Rae’s dog Ruby, who likes to find a quiet spot in the shade to lie down,”

Rather than selecting a standard garden path, Andrew chose to use long steppers that had irregular lengths to create a walkway that functions as a point of difference within the scheme. “The dark colour of the surrounding mondo grass contrasts brilliantly to highlight the shape and light colour of the pavers,” explains Andrew. A pergola was constructed from bronze brushed metal that matches the front fence, and a custom made gate was fabricated to match. “The raised corten steel feature garden area and a few buxus balls create interest without detracting from the feature pots,” says Andrew.

HOME BEAUTIFUL

HERO PLANTS Clockwise from top left: Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea ‘Alba’), Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata), Chinese star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), and dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nana’).

Great heights

H I G H PL E AC HED BAY T R E ES ( LAUR US N OB I LI S ) AR E P LA NT E D ALON G T HE RE A R F E NC E LI N E, W I T H LIRIOPE MUSCARI ‘ROYA L PURPLE’ U N DE RP LA N TE D A N D GAR DE N I A AUG U S TA ‘ FLO RI DA’ I N F RON T.

Inner circle

I N T HE CORT EN ST E EL GA RDE N B E D F R OM FOR M B OSS STA N DS A L AGE RSTO E MI A INDICA ‘N ATCHE Z ’, T H AT I S S UR RO U N DE D

BY RO S MA R INU S O F FI C IA N A LI S ‘ B LUE L AGO ON ’ ALON G W ITH S OC IE T Y GA RL IC .

Source book Landscape design: Andrew Panton, Andrew Panton Design, 0405 699 036, andrewpantondesign.com.

Landscaping: Perennial Landscaping Group, 0405 699 036, perennial landscaping.com.au.

7$.( $ 67$1' $*$,167 3/$67,& bremworth.com.au

BEAUTIFUL

PHOTOGRAPHY LISA COHEN INTERIOR DESIGN CHARLOTTE COOTE

design

LIGHT HOUSE page 122

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | EXPERT ADVICE | RENOVATE | CREATE

The good lighting guide

LIGHT HOUSE YOU WON’T BE LEFT IN THE DARK WITH OUR LIGHTING GUIDE FOR EVERY ROOM IN THE HOME

L

Words JESSICA BELLEF

ighting possesses transformative superpowers, and can take a room’s ambience from institutional to intimate with the flick of a switch.

Without this contrast between light and dark, a space can read as flat and lifeless.

Selena Mohr, interior designer at Your Beautiful Home, has noticed a shift in attitude towards the value of thoughtful lighting design. “Clients are really appreciating lighting more and thinking beyond just throwing a few downlights in,” she says. “They consider how integral it is to the overall design concept and Designer tip

feel of a home.” Clayton Driessen, a buyer and designer for Beacon Lighting, concurs. “People are realising how much the lighting affects day-to-day life, especially as our homes are becoming multipurpose hubs,” he says.

Marie Botsis-Premici, director and founder of The Montauk Lighting Co., highlights the importance of creating a lighting plan that complements how you intend to live in each space. “Having multiple light sources that give you control over the amount of light you need is the best way to create a home that you enjoy living in,” she explains.

“ DI FF ER E N T L IG HTING L EV ELS A R E R EQ U IRED AT DI F FERENT TIMES O F THE DAY AND FOR DIFFERENT TASKS,” SAYS M AR IE . “ HAV ING THE F LE XI B IL I T Y TO A DJU ST T HE L EVE L OF L IGH T ING I S KEY.” T HIS D ES IGN BY M AI N E H OUS E INTER IORS FOL LOWS TH AT TO A T EE.

Beautiful DESIGN LAMPSHADES

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) ALICIA TAYLOR (OPPOSITE) LISA COHEN STYLING (THIS PAGE) LISA BURDUS (OPPOSITE) TESS NEWMAN-MORRIS ARTWORK (OPPOSITE) JOHN OLSEN *ALL INTERNATIONAL PRICES ARE BASED ON CURRENT EXCHANGE RATES AT THE TIME OF PRINTING

FROM TOP ‘Blue on Blue Marble Spot’ lampshade, $195/20cm, Spiro Store. ‘Bedwyn’ gathered lampshade in Aventurine Rabanna cotton, from $159*/40cm, Fermoie. Cane lampshade with trim in Khaki, from $156*/extra small, Matilda Goad & Co. ‘Tangier’ striped canvas lampshade in Iceberg Blue, from $208*/20cm, Alice Palmer & Co. Hand-painted lampshade, from $156*/10cm, Sarah Blomfield.

Living area Creating a cosy living space comes down to the lighting. “There’s nothing worse than trying to relax while watching TV and you’ve got downlights spotlighting you when you really want a softer light!” says Selena. She suggests placing additional light sources around the room at different heights to create a cocooning feeling, as in the design above by interior designer Lisa Burdus. “So many people get hung up on having lights on their ceiling,” says Clayton. “Yes, that light pushes down onto us and has a purpose, but it’s also great to have lamps in the lower plane of the space.

It adds a sense of warmth and comfort.”

TABLE & FLOOR LAMPS

FROM LEFT ‘Monique’ ceramic table lamp in Grey, $229/72cm, Domayne. ‘Foglia’ plaster

table lamp in White/Terracotta, $2000/61cm, Lucy Montgomery. ‘Felix’ floor lamp in Antique Brass, $1645/171.2cm, Coco Republic. ‘Smith’ LED table lamp in Aged Bronze, $219/39.5cm, Beacon Lighting. Barbara Barry ‘Lotus’ floor lamp, $1639/174cm, The Montauk Lighting Co. Ceramic table lamp in Blue and White, $183.95/46.5cm, Alfresco Emporium. >

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Beautiful DESIGN

Bathroom One central overhead light will just not cut it in the bathroom, especially when shadow-free task lighting is vital at the vanity. Position wall lights and pendants at eye level on either side of the mirror to evenly illuminate your face. “Cooler light can be really harsh, so choose a warmer globe for a more flattering effect,” says Selena Mohr. Be mindful of what the light fittings are made of, as certain natural and raw materials will warp and discolour in moisture-rich, steamy conditions. “People love rattan pendants in the bathroom, but they don’t always keep their shape in the steam, so it can end up being a waste of money,” says Selena.

Designer tip

GLOBE TYPES GLOW UP Brightness: The way we shop for light globes has shifted, thanks to recent developments in energy-efficient LED technology. Today, it’s all about the ‘lumens’, not watts.

“Lumens is the amount of light that’s actually being emitted from the light globe, whereas wattage is purely an indicator of how much energy that light fitting is using,” says Clayton Driessen. As a guide, a regular 42-watt halogen bulb will have approximately the same brightness as an LED bulb with 800 lumens.

Temperature: Kelvin (K) measures a light’s temperature, referring to how cool or warm it appears.

A lower rating of 2700-3300K indicates warmer and more yellow light, while a higher rating of 3300-5300K gives you cooler and bluer light.

“I think warm light is better for a home, generally,” says Selena, “but cooler light can be great when you need focused task lighting.”

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WALL LIGHTS

FROM LEFT ‘Monroe 1’ light wall bracket in Brass, $299/20cm, Beacon Lighting. ‘Tillary’

wall sconce, $345/33cm, Coco Republic. Aerin ‘Clemente’ wall light in Hand-Rubbed Antique Brass finish with lampshades in White, $869/27.3cm, The Montauk Lighting Co. ‘Contemporary Glass Orb’ wall light in Aged Old Brass, $595/32cm, Lighting Collective. Maison Sarah Lavoine ‘Tokyo’ wall light with handmade shade, $950/42cm, Bastille and Sons.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) LOUISE ROCHE (OPPOSITE) MAREE HOMER STYLING (THIS PAGE) KYLIE JACKES (OPPOSITE) JACKIE BROWN ARTWORK (THIS PAGE) DESIGNER BOYS

“ AS M OS T L I GHT F I T TI N GS N E ED TO B E H AR D-W IR ED, WE RECOM M EN D YOU CAREFULLY CONSIDER YO U R L I GHT IN G N EE DS AT T H E OUT SE T O F A R EN OVAT I ON,” SAYS M AR IE B OT SI S- PR EMI C I. “ T HI S WI L L ALLOW E L ECT R ICI AN S TO PL A N FO R A DD IT I ON AL POWE R REQ UI RE D I N T HE WA LL S A N D C EI LI N GS, AN D E V EN A DD I T I ONAL P OWE R P OI NT S THAT M IG H T BE R EQ UI RE D.”

Bedroom Bedrooms require a delicate balance of lighting form and function. Even the light’s colour temperature can influence the quality of your sleep. “Cooler light can start suppressing melatonin production in the brain, making it hard for you to fall asleep,” says Clayton. “Wind yourself down from the busy day with warmer light.” Selena loves the drama of pendant lights hanging low above the bedsides, but it may not be the ideal situation for everyone.

“If you do a lot of reading in bed, you’ll need a much more directional light, which could mean adding an adjustable wall light that can pivot away when you’re not using it,” she says.

Designer tip

“L AM PS A RE A GREAT WAY TO IN T RO DU C E CO LOUR O R PI CK UP A CO LO UR I N A B EAUT I FUL ART WOR K ,” E XPL A I N S SE LE N A. “ YOU CAN H AV E A CU STO M L A M PSH AD E TH AT I S IN E XP EN S I VE BU T CO MPL ET E S T H E LO OK .”

TH I S BE DRO OM DE SI G N

BY S T UDI O T RI O S CO RE S ON B OT H CO UN T S. T H E ART WOR K IS AUT UM N A L EL E ME N T S F RO M UN I T ED IN T ER IO RS . >

Beautiful DESIGN Kitchen

PHOTOGRAPHY MAREE HOMER STYLING STUDIO KATE ARTWORKS (LEFT WALL) MATILDA MICHELL (RIGHT WALL) JUSKE WACHBERG

The workhorse of the home requires an equally hardworking lighting scheme. Marie BotsisPremici suggests looking at the space holistically and thinking about how each zone will be used.

Well-placed wall lights and concealed under-cabinet lights provide effective task lighting for meal-prep time. If your kitchen is also a social hub, as in this design by Kate Nixon of Studio Kate, the flexibility to switch to more mellow lighting solutions is key. Pendants can impact the space two-fold, as an ambient light source that also makes a style statement. Marie advises that the base of a pendant above a kitchen counter should sit a minimum of 80cm from the top of the bench. “The most appropriate hanging height is lower than most people expect,” she says.

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LIGHTING LAYERS Layered light creates a well-lit and balanced space. Clayton reveals the layers that, when combined, contour a room and provide practical illumination.

General ambient: “The first layer, this is typically something with a wide distribution of light without too much focus on a particular area,” he says.

Task: “More focused and direct, task lighting provides the right kind of lumen output and colour temperature for the work you are doing, whether that’s cooking in the kitchen or reading in bed.”

Accent: “Most people get excited about this lighting!

This is where you play with the contrast of light and shadow and use a narrow light beam to highlight certain decorative features such as architectural elements or artwork.”

SWITCHES

“WITH high ceilings, ONE LITTLE PENDANT WON’T DO MUCH – YOU MAY NEED SOMETHING BIG, OR A cluster OF PENDANTS” SELENA MOHR, YOUR BEAUTIFUL HOME

FROM TOP ‘Zangra’ steel double-light switch in White, $264, Smallable. Tradco traditional toggle light switch in Antique Brass, $39, Restoration Online. Lucci ‘Powermesh 2’ gang light switch in Black, $169, Beacon Lighting.

Matureware ‘Hexagon’ switch plate in Brass, $160, Nalata Nalata.

Buster + Punch ‘V2’ steel toggle light switch, $22.95, Beacon Lighting.

Kitchens

FANTASY ISLANDS

DRIFT AWAY INTO A WORLD OF KITCHEN INSPIRATION, WHERE FORM AND FUNCTION MEET STYLE STATEMENTS IN GRAND PROPORTIONS Words HOLLY BYRNE

DRAWER DELIGHT “INCO RPORAT ING PLENTY OF DRAW ERS WILL ENSU RE A MPLE STO RAGE, W HI LE ALS O C REATI NG MO RE USAB LE, CLUT TE RFREE S PAC E,” SAYS MON IQ UE PARKER OF KABOO D LE KITCHEN. A COMBI NATI ON OF D RAW ERS A ND CU PBOA RD S C LE VE R LY MAX IMIS ES YOU R STO RAGE O PTIO NS.

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Beautiful DESIGN

I

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS WARNES ARTWORK UNKNOWN ARTIST ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

f kitchens are the heart of the home, the island bench is what keeps it beating strong. The ultimate all-rounder serves as a social gathering place, a storage goldmine, a desk when you need it and, of course, bench space for meal prep and, at times, the meal itself.

“More is more in many cases when it comes to island benches, as they command majesty but also are incredibly practical storage solutions,” says Charlotte Riggs, brand manager at Bondi Kitchens & Joinery.

It’s one of the most multi-tasking features in the home, but it’s also a major opportunity to experiment with design and create a style statement. “Aesthetically, luxury is in the eye of the beholder – it could be the look of marble, granite or polished concrete,” says Brydie York, APAC general manager of marketing at Caesarstone. “But in terms of performance, luxury is having an island bench that performs brilliantly.”

Read on to be inspired by five luxury island destinations that have style in spades – and functionality in full force.

The real deal Nothing says luxury quite like Carrara marble – and for the homeowner of this sensational Sydney space, using the real thing was non-negotiable. As the mother of renowned reno queen Bonnie Hindmarsh of Three Birds Renovations, and a seasoned renovator herself, Linda Scott was well educated on the idea of engineered stone as an option to installing genuine Cararra marble on her benchtops and splashbacks, but she was up for the maintenance and care it would require. The cabinetry was hand-painted in Dulux Monument with a matte finish to create a sense of depth and an organic touch, and the generous measurements allow for room to cook and entertain at the same time. “Oversized islands give you plenty of room for gatherings and are an easy way to increase your benchtop space,” says Monique Parker, marketing manager of Kaboodle Kitchen. >

M ATE RI A L M ATCH BE I N SP IR ED BY TH E ARCH I T ECT U RA L F EATUR E S, D ES IGN S AN D COLOU R S O F YO UR H O ME WH EN D ESI GN I NG YO UR I S LA N D. “R US T IC OAK HE L P S SO FT E N T HI S S PACE A N D B RI N GS TH E RO OM TO GET H ER WI TH T H OS E AMA Z IN G BE A MS ,” E XP LAI N S I N T ER I OR D ES I GNE R MADDALENA MINERVA.

“IN big spaces YOU HAVE ROOM TO INCLUDE BIG ISLANDS! IT’S A luxury IF YOU ALSO HAVE SPACE FOR SEATING” MADDALENA MINERVA, INTERIOR DESIGNER

Beautiful DESIGN

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) MAREE HOMER (OPPOSITE) ASTRID TEMPLIER ARTWORKS (OPPOSITE) UNKNOWN ARTISTS ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

ADDED EXTRAS IN TH I S D ES I GN

BY CADENCE & CO FO R A H O ME I N THE NSW SOUTHERN H IGL H A N DS , A B RASS TOWE L BA R TI E S I N TO T RA DI T I ON A L-S TY L E TA PWARE FROM THE ENGLISH TA PWARE COMPA N Y AN D HAS B EE N I N STA LL E D B ET WE EN T H E T WO IS LA N DS TO E N ABL E EASY RE ACH.

“THE MAIN BENEFITS OF two islands IN YOUR DESIGN IS THE AMOUNT OF storage AND bench space YOU WILL GAIN” MONIQUE PARKER, KABOODLE KITCHEN

Colour play

Dual power

“Colours and materials are key in beautiful kitchen islands,” says London interior designer Maddalena Minerva. “As they are low-level, I steer towards a bolder colour to ground the space.”

In this kitchen (opposite), Maddalena chose a deep green for the cabinetry (for similar, try Porter’s Paints Emerald) and a mix of Silestone and timber for the benchtop, which delineates the cooking and social spaces. “It’s always nice to mix worktops,” says Maddalena. “I love an oak butcher’s block to separate the seating area. An integrated dishwasher and bin unit are disguised on either side of the butler’s sink for an efficient workflow.”

The only thing better than a well-designed kitchen island is two well-designed kitchen islands, as in this rural retreat designed

by Cadence & Co (above). Bar stools tucked neatly between drawers on the secondary island allow room to entertain (or supervise homework) while dinner is being prepared, without getting in each other’s way. Traditional style is celebrated in the islands’ detail, through custom joinery with a Shaker-style profile and an Ogee edge cut on honed Carrara marble benchtops. The dark grey of Porter’s Paints Mineral adds sophistication and cohesion is created through repeated colours and materials. >

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ART O F D IS PL AY ADDI N G O P E N SHELVE S TO THE E N D O F YO UR I SLAN D B ENC H I S AN IN V ENT I VE WAY TO REV IV E DE AD SPAC E W H I LE KEE P ING YOUR PR E TT IES T P IEC E S ON D ISP L AY.

Beautiful DESIGN

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) TOM FERGUSON (OPPOSITE) LISA ROMEREIN FROM PATINA HOMES BY BROOKE AND STEVE GIANNETTI, REPRINTED BY PERMISSION OF GIBBS SMITH BUILDER (THIS PAGE) IBW CONSTRUCTIONS JOINERY BONDI KITCHENS & JOINERY ARTWORK (THIS PAGE) UNKNOWN ARTIST

STAT E M EN T M A KE R GE T CR E ATIV E WIT H S UR FAC E MAT ER IA L S. “ TH I N K LES S A B O UT F I N I S HE S S UC H AS P OLY U RE T H A NE A N D M OR E A BO UT A MI X O F FI N IS H E S, S H A P ES A N D COLO URS SUC H AS T I M B ER VEN E ERS , F LU TE D O R RI B B E D PA N EL S, O R A PL AY F UL U SE O F NAT URA L S TO N E,” S UGG ES T S I N TE RI OR DE SI GN E R S UZ A N NE G REE N.

“A LUXURIOUS ISLAND CAN seamlessly connect YOUR KITCHEN TO YOUR LIVING OR DINING ROOM, SO family and friends CAN EASILY GATHER” MONIQUE PARKER, KABOODLE KITCHEN Wood works

A shapely statement

Lusting over the warm, rustic aesthetic of a timber benchtop?

Its high-maintenance nature and easy-to-scratch surface can be off-putting for keen cooks, but you can incorporate the timelessly stylish material into your island design. In this kitchen (opposite) with a French Provincial theme by US designers Giannetti, swathes of timber have been used from floor to ceiling, most cleverly on the islands. On the main food prep bench, timber in the cabinetry beneath introduces the warmth and texture that timber is loved for, while allowing for a more durable benchtop surface. The secondary entertainer’s bench brings timber to the top, where it’s less likely to encounter hot pans and sharp knives.

Be bold and think beyond the ordinary, says interior designer Suzanne Green, the mastermind behind this family kitchen in Sydney (above). “The space needed a generous island for the family to socialise and cook simultaneously,” she says. The home is in the Spanish Mission-style, which drove the island design.

“We chose colours and materials that would have comfortably sat in the home of a 1930s Hollywood movie star,” says Suzanne.

Soft creams, accents of bronze and brass and shades of grey form the palette. A benchtop of Faustina honed marble (try Artedomus) elevates things. “The large central island gives the impression that the space is larger than it really is,” adds Suzanne.

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Beautiful UPHOLSTERY Upholstery handbook

COVER STORY FROM SOFAS TO BEDHEADS, HERE’S ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE – AND MORE FOR GOOD MEASURE

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) LISA COHEN (OPPOSITE) ANSON SMART STYLING (THIS PAGE) TESS NEWMAN-MORRIS

Words CHRIS PEARSON

Pieces of all sizes can pack a punch, such as an ottoman in striped DeLany & Long fabric from Kneedler Fauchère LA in this Sydney home. The custom sofa is in Dominique Kieffer ‘Mega 2’ fabric from South Pacific Fabrics.

Opposite: For her family’s home in rural Victoria, interior designer Charlotte Coote upholstered the family-room sofa in Georgia Macmillan ‘Double Inky Stripe’ fabric and a self-designed ottoman in Schumacher ‘Fishnet Marine’.

U

pholstered furniture, especially sofas, can be the most expensive decision you have to make when it comes to furnishing your home.

And as those sofas and bedheads, in particular, take a starring role in a room, choose with care, as mistakes can be costly.

Your decision should not just be ruled by what immediately takes your fancy. Other aspects to consider include the scale of the piece – too big and it can take over, too small and your lounge looks like a doll’s house.

There is also the profile, the style – a retro style could be a mismatch in a traditional room – the fabric and the filling. The fabric will affect both the durability and the overall look, while the filling will affect comfort and durability.

Last, but never least, why not accessorise with buttons, pleats and piping for that final flourish? Sofas, armchairs, ottomans, dining chairs and bedheads – whether you’re buying ready-made, bespoke or having that favourite piece revived, in this must-have guide, we have absolutely everything covered. >

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Beautiful UPHOLSTERY

“Look at the fabric’s composition to help determine whether it’s right for the space” CAMERON WARWICK, WARWICK

FAB FABRICS

From top: ‘Fleece’ fabric in Snow, James Dunlop Textiles. ‘Oxter’ polyester in Paprika, Warwick. GP & J Baker ‘Ikat Bokhara’ linen in Emerald, Elliott Clarke.

Schumacher ‘Struktur Epingle’ fabric in Lapis and ‘Marli’ indoor-outdoor hemp fabric in Ivory, both available from Grant Dorman Interior Products (Vic, Tas, WA, SA), Orient House (NSW), or Scott Hutton Agencies (Qld). ‘Alpine’ fabric in Moss, James Dunlop Textiles.

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Take your weave

Switch things up

Texture rules in upholstery fabrics, in

Slip covers allow your furniture to perform

chunky bouclés and slinky velvets. “We see a trend towards two major groups – calm, clean and minimalist, and bold, rich and maximalist,” says Cameron Warwick of Warwick textile suppliers. “Comforting textured fabrics, such as our ‘Fabio’ and ‘Ovis’ bouclés, are popular, while we’ve also had a great response to the maximalist velvet prints in our tropical ‘Picton’ and ‘Zanzibar’ collections.” Adds Justin Puddick of Justin Puddick Upholstery, “Pure linen has been popular for the last 15 years, while bouclé and cotton and linen blends have increased in popularity.” The colours du jour? “Still the neutrals, such as beiges, off-whites, fawns and taupes.”

a quick-change act. Some people switch them with the seasons, but maybe the biggest plus is you can have a white sofa or dining chair with young ones in the house.

For spills, whip them off and take them to the dry-cleaners. They are looser and less tailored, producing a less-formal look, and saving you money – you’ll pay around $300 to $600 less to cover a sofa, $100 to $200 less for a dining chair, says Justin. A King Design Studio spokesperson adds: “All our sofas and soft furnishings have removable covers that can be replaced, which futureproofs your choice – you can replace fabric to suit evolving preferences, making it a costeffective alternative to reupholstering.”

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) KRISTINA SOLJO (OPPOSITE) ANSON SMART STYLING (THIS PAGE) KATE NIXON

A Diane Bergeron ‘Annis’ sofa upholstered in ‘Great Jones’ fabric in Raspberry from Arthur G can really bring a room to life.

Swatch this space Upholstery fabrics fall into two wear

categories – domestic and commercial.

Despite the name, domestic fabrics are not always fit for purpose in the home. “For high-traffic areas such as living rooms, where there is a lot of interaction, we recommend fabrics with a heavy-commercial rating, as they are hard-wearing and durable,” explains Cameron. “Those seeking an easy-clean, stain-resistant option should consider our ‘Halo’ range or additional treatments, such as our OnGuard. For low-traffic areas, such as rooms with less interaction, either domestic or commercial fabrics can be used.”

MAKE FRIENDS WITH FABRIC Fabric can make up half the total price of your finished item, and can vary from around $50 per square metre up to $200 per square metre, and even higher.

How much will you need? You may need to factor in extra for pattern repeats. Here are Justin’s suggestions: Two-seater: About 12-14 metres for the frame and seat cushions only. For back cushions, add at least two metres.

Three-seater: About 14-16 metres, allowing an extra 2-3 metres for the back and pattern repeats.

Chaise: About 8-10 metres and an extra metre for pattern repeats.

Armchair/accent chair: Depending on shape and size, about 6-8 metres (seat and back cushion with a flounce will need about eight metres) and one metre for repeats.

Ottoman: One to four metres.

Dining chair: About 600cm to 1.5 metres for one chair, multiplied by number of chairs.

Bedheads: These can be tricky as they vary in shape and size.

From 1.5 metres to 4 metres, depending on size and height. >

Beautiful UPHOLSTERY

A luxe occasional chair in Designs Of The Time ‘Atohi’ fabric from James Dunlop Textiles gets far more than occasional use in this Sydney living area fit-out by interior designer Louise Walsh.

WHERE TO BUY

Now you know what you want, here’s where to get it, how to get it and what to look out for

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Ready, set…

Made to measure

King, Domayne and Harvey Norman are

The likes of King also offer a custom

among retailers with ready-made furniture on the showroom floor, and are generally your cheapest option. Or you can order the stock item in your own covering, for the same base price with the total affected only by choice of material. “Ready-mades are great for clients who require furniture with shorter lead times and like to see the finished piece before buying,” says interior designer Louise Walsh. “They can be more cost-effective, but often have limitations with fabrics and sizes.”

service. This can be especially useful with modular sofas – an ottoman there, perhaps, a corner seat over there, or maybe a shelf?

Yes, even gesture control lights and wireless charging tables! One-offs, by their very nature, will cost more, plus it means you are taking a bit of a chance with the final look.

For custom pieces, some companies offer apps where you can picture your potential purchase in the room it is intended for, thereby (hopefully) avoiding costly mistakes.

HOME BEAUTIFUL

The pros with the pros – and cons Get a ready-made piece through an interior

designer, but the price will depend on your contract with them – you may get 20 per cent off the retail price, but that would be offset by the cost of their services. Many designers also offer bespoke. “Price-wise, our custom pieces are comparable to off-the-shelf options in the medium- to high-end market,” says Louise. “But they come with a 10-year warranty, are locally manufactured and tailored to each client.”

“For forever pieces, custom items are worth the investment” LOUISE WALSH, INTERIOR DESIGNER

Sofa so good… …Or re-cover an old fave. Justin Puddick

explains that the price of reupholstering depends on the size and amount of labour needed. A small two-seater sofa starts from around $1500, with fabric on top of that, while an armchair costs from $700, also minus fabric. Beware hidden nasties – the piece may need new springs or padding, which can add “hundreds” to the cost, says Justin, making the process more expensive than buying a new piece. However, there’s a lot to be said for reviving a beloved piece with a new look that’s totally your own.

The hypnotic ‘Oceania’ fabric in Sandstone used to upholster a ‘Zaza’ sofa from King is an artwork in itself, and is contrasted by grey ‘Oliver’ tub chairs, also from King.

PHOTOGRAPHY (THIS PAGE) NIC GOSSAGE (OPPOSITE) PRUE RUSCOE STYLING (THIS PAGE) KATE LINCOLN (OPPOSITE) LOUISE WALSH ARTWORKS UNKNOWN ARTISTS

PUT YOUR FEET UP

From left: ‘Lode’ fabric ottoman in Baxter Ash Grey, $652/82.5cm, King. ‘Lennox’ linen two-seater sofa in Pearl, from $4925/220cm, Coco Republic.

Molmic ‘Shelby’ two-seater sofa in Opal Birch, $5472/205cm, David Jones. ‘Fleur’ fabric two-seater sofa in Bronte Peach, $6016/188cm, King.

‘Chesterfield’ linen two-seater sofa in Natural, $2799/217cm, Provincial Home Living. ‘Joe’ linen ottoman in Moss, $575/80cm, MCM House. >

Here’s the rub The Martindale test – what’s that, you

ask? It produces a so-called rub rate which assesses the strength of a fabric. The test puts a swatch through its paces, counting the number of rubs until it gives out. For general domestic, a fabric should withstand 15,000-20,000 rubs, and for heavy domestic it’s 20,000-40,000 rubs. Commercial grades are even more durable than that, leaving you with a real tough cookie.

Rattan seating spruced up with an array of vivid blue fabric highlights the dining area of interior designer Amy Spargo’s family home in Melbourne.

Beautiful UPHOLSTERY

Railroad versus non-railroad

Pattern repeat versus pattern match

So, what do choo-choos have to do with

Both will affect how much fabric you need.

upholstery? A so-called railroad pattern runs from side to side across the bolt, like railroad sleepers, and a non-railroad runs horizontally.

This will affect how much fabric you need, on a sofa in particular – you could be left with a pattern running in the wrong direction, unless you run the fabric side to side with a seam. Obviously, this is only an issue with patterned fabric.

A pattern repeat is the distance between two matching design elements. Take this into account when visualising the final look – what motifs do you want to be prominent?

Pattern matching refers to how the fabric is sewn along the seam so the elements match. This uses more fabric and takes longer to do – and as with railroad patterns, it’s not a problem with plain fabrics.

GETTING YOUR FILL What’s under the covers?

Here’s what you don’t see…

Foam: The most common sofa filling comes in various densities.

The harder the foam, the harder the seat. The densest foams are usually used as a base, supplemented by the softer ones for moulding and turning corners.

Polyester: The cheapest filling, it comes in loose fibres and in different densities, but it easily flattens out, so it’s best avoided if your budget allows.

Coir: Made from coconut husks, this was the go-to before the advent of foam. Your pre-loved armchair might contain this and it may need replacing in the upholstering, adding to the cost.

PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTH PAGES) LISA COHEN STYLING (BOTH PAGES) MAINE HOUSE INTERIORS

Batting aka wadding: A wrap in cotton, wool or polyester, this is fashioned around foam to help cushions keep their shape.

Feathers and down: The softest fillings, but they come at a price premium and need frequent plumping. While soft, they offer less support and don’t retain their shape. Best for back cushions or as a wraparound high-density foam.

An upholstered blue armchair is the focal point in a tranquil bedroom design by Amy Spargo.

For seat cushions: “For these, a feather and down wrap with a high-resilience foam core is best,” says Justin Puddick.

For customers who don’t want to constantly plump up their cushions, high-resilience foam with a bonded polyester wrap is best. “Most quality sofas will use several different layers of foam and filling,” says a King Design Studio spokesperson. “Feather fill requires plumping and fluffing, but presents a lovely, lived-in feel over time, while memory foam is easier to care for.” >

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Beautiful UPHOLSTERY

SLEEPING IN STYLE

The final step to serene shut-eye is getting the fabric touches right

HEAD OF THE CLASS From top: ‘Darcy’ fabric bedhead in Moss Stripe, $1080/queen, Halvorsen Interiors. ‘Tina’ fabric bedhead in Ivory, $1499/queen, McMullin & Co. ‘Genevieve’ fabric bedhead in Greenwich Stripe Chocolate, from $1590/ queen, Heatherly Design. ‘Arch’ velvet bedhead in Mojave Rose, $509/queen, Brosa. ‘Jasper’ fabric bed package in Baxter Natural (excludes mattress and bedding), $6181/queen, King.

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And so to bed…

Accessorise!

Bedheads add impact and anchor

For a more tailored look, select piping, studs,

a bedroom – and they are hot right now.

Buy them ready-made as part of a total bed offering from the likes of King, Coco Republic, Snooze and Temple & Webster.

Some sell headboards alone, minus the bed, ready-made. “We make a lot of bedheads and a king-size would cost around $1100, plus fabric,” says Justin Puddick. Pleats and buttons add to the look and the price. While a sofa might require commercial-grade fabric, a domestic-grade bedhead fabric should leave you sleeping soundly.

pleats, buttons or flounces. Piping doesn’t add much to the cost, but deep diamond buttoning (buttons are compressed onto a filled upholstery base) does cost more. Close studding is popular for antique pieces but ups the cost as they’re hammered in one at a time.

Others keep it simple. “Any design feature on a King sofa serves form and function,” says a King Design Studio spokesperson. “The stitching on the ‘Fleur’ sofa is called ‘pull line’ and its purpose is beyond decorative, helping to maintain the bench seat’s clean look.”

PHOTOGRAPHY PRUE RUSCOE STYLING LOUISE WALSH COLLECTIVE DISTANCE: INTERCONNECTEDNESS ARTWORK AMANDA SCHUNKER/CURATORIAL+CO

Interior designer Louise Walsh specified a custom bedhead upholstered in ‘Ballymoor’ linen in Teak from Raffles Textiles for the main bedroom of this Sydney home.

Beautiful DESIGN VANITY PROJECT

FORMER THE BLOCK CONTESTANTS ALISA AND LYSANDRA TEAMED UP WITH BATHROOM FURNITURE MANUFACTURERS, ADP, TO CREATE A COLLECTION OF h^dZ >/ EͳD VANITIES AND MIRRORED CABINETS, NOW AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT REECE. OUR dKW W/ < /^ d, W ͚ Z ,/ ͛ >>ͳ KKZ t >>ͳ,hE' s E/dz hE/d ϭϯϱϬ /E dKW/ Zz Έ> &dΉ͕ ΨϮϭϰϬ͘ Z ͘ KD͘ h͘

TOP 3 OVENS COOK UP A STORM WITH THESE HANDSOME HARD WORKERS

STYLE ON TAP

OUR ROUND-UP OF THE LATEST KITCHEN AND BATHROOM NEWS, SHOPPING AND DECORATING Edited by LAURA BARRY

FANCY FIZZ SODASTREAM’S ‘DUO’ SPARKLING WATER MAKER, $299, IS NOW COMPATIBLE WITH BOTH PLASTIC AND ELEGANT GLASS BOTTLES. SODASTREAM.COM.AU.

BYGONE BEAUTIES DESIGNED TO PATINA WELL, THE PULLMAN RANGE OF ACCESSORIES, FIXTURES AND MIRRORS CURATED

BY SIBELLA COURT ARE JEWELLERY FOR YOUR BATHROOM ZONE. THESOCIETYINC.COM.AU.

From top: Smeg ‘Victoria Aesthetic’ freestanding dual fuel oven/stove in Cream, $6990, Winning Appliances.

Belling ‘Colour Boutique Richmond’ deluxe dual fuel range cooker in Mojito Mint, $10,499, Harvey Norman. La Cornue Château cooker in Liberté, from $74,410, Andi-Co Australia.

THESE sweet ‘FRIDA’ HANDLES BY THE ARC DEPARTMENT, $95 EACH, ARE ON OUR renovation wishlist. THEARCDEPT.COM. 144

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Your TV, secured with style Your TV is a valuable and fragile piece of equipment.

You are careful with it. Especially in a house with children or pets, you want to minimise the risk of knocks or damage.

Mounting your TV firmly and securely on the wall is therefore a logical choice.

COMFORT TV Wall Mounts are ideal for this purpose. They are not only stylish, but also very robust. Your TV couldn’t be safer.

Every COMFORT TV Wall Mount is TÜVcertified and therefore meets the highest safety requirements.

For more information

For your nearest dealer, please contact Canohm.

Phone:1800 636 026 | Email: sales@canohm.com.au canohm.com.au

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Strong and safe

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Ease of installation

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Respecting people and planet

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The best materials

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BEAUTIFUL

food

BRAISED LAMB WITH APRICOTS

PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREW HAYES-WATKINS

See recipe page 152

NO PRESSURE

page 150

EASY AND DELICIOUS FOOD TO SHARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

CHICKEN WITH LETTUCE, LEAKS & PEAS See recipe opposite

NO PRESSURE

CREATE RICH AND COMFORTING FOOD IN MINUTES WITH THESE MODERN (AND EASY) PRESSURE-COOKER RECIPES Recipes & food styling CATHERINE PHIPPS Photography ANDREW HAYES-WATKINS

Beautiful FOOD

CHICKEN WITH LETTUCE, LEEKS & PEAS Serves 4 (See opposite) 1 tbsp olive oil 100g bacon lardons 2 little gem lettuces, halved 6–8 chicken thighs, skin on 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped or grated 75ml white wine 2 sprigs of tarragon 100ml chicken stock 15g butter

200g petit pois 2 leeks, cut into rounds 50ml single (light) cream Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper TO SERVE Leaves from 1 sprig of tarragon, finely chopped BUTTERY TOMATO SOUP See recipe below

1. Heat the olive oil in your pressure cooker. When it is hot, add the bacon lardons and the little gem lettuces, cut-side down.

When the bacon has browned and the underside of the lettuces have taken on some colour, remove from the pressure cooker.

2. Season the chicken thighs on both sides, then fry, skin-side down, until well browned and becoming crisp. Remove from the cooker and add the garlic. Sauté for a minute, then add the white wine. Allow to bubble up and stir to deglaze the cooker, then return the chicken to the cooker, making sure you leave it skin-side up.

Tuck in the sprigs of tarragon. Pour over the chicken stock. Close the lid and cook for 6 minutes at high pressure, then fast release.

3. Add the butter to the pan and pour in the peas. Place the leeks on top, followed by the little gem lettuces. Bring up to high pressure again, then immediately remove from the heat and leave to stand for 2–3 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure. Stir in the cream and leave to simmer for a further 2–3 minutes. Serve garnished with a sprinkling of finely chopped tarragon.

VARIATIONS: Using thigh fillets (preferably with the skin on), reduce the first cooking time to 2 minutes. This is really good with grilled artichoke hearts in place of the lettuce. Add at the same time as the leeks.

When in season, add asparagus or use it to replace the little gems.

Lay on top of the leeks. Turn into a one pot: Add 400g new or salad potatoes to the cooker before the first high-pressure cook.

BUTTERY TOMATO SOUP Serves 4 (See above) 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes 2 celery sticks, roughly chopped 1 large onion, halved 2 carrots, roughly chopped 1 small sweet potato or 200g piece butternut squash, unpeeled and roughly chopped 4 garlic cloves, peeled

Pinch of ground cinnamon 1 litre vegetable or chicken stock or water 2 large sprigs of basil 50g butter Pinch of sugar (optional) Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. This could not be simpler. Put everything in the pressure cooker, season well with salt and pepper, then bring up to pressure. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes, then leave to drop pressure naturally.

Taste and add a pinch of sugar for extra sweetness, if you like.

Fish out the basil sprigs, then puree. Push through a sieve for an ultra-smooth texture if you feel it is necessary.

VARIATIONS: Vegan Tomato & Coconut Soup Replace the butter and 300ml of the vegetable stock or water with coconut milk. This will work with either the main or lentil version. >

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A FEW MINUTES IS ALL IT TAKES TO CREATE AN EASY VERSION OF traditional VIETNAMESE BEEF PHO CASSEROLE THAT IS AS nutritious AS IT IS delicious

BRAISED LAMB WITH APRICOTS

SIMPLE BEEF PHO

Serves 4 (See page 149)

Serves 4 (See opposite)

1 tbsp olive oil 1 red large onion, finely sliced 600g lamb neck fillet or shoulder, trimmed and thickly sliced 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped Large pinch of saffron, soaked in a little warm water ½ tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground ginger 1 sprig of rosemary Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

100g dried apricots A few sprigs of flat-leaf parsley or mint, roughly torn TO SERVE 150g couscous 15g slice of butter Juice of 1 orange A few drops of orange blossom water (optional) 25g toasted almonds

1. Heat the olive oil in the pressure cooker. Add the onion and sauté on a high heat until it starts to brown around the edges. Add the lamb and the garlic and cook until the lamb has taken on some colour. Stir in the spices and rosemary and season with plenty of salt and pepper.

2. Add 150ml water to the cooker along with half the apricots. Close the lid and bring up to high pressure. Cook for 10 minutes, then release pressure naturally. Add the remaining apricots to the cooker and return to high pressure. Cook for another 5 minutes and again, leave to drop pressure naturally. Serve garnished with a little parsley or mint.

3. Put the couscous in a bowl with the butter. Measure the orange juice and make up with hot water to 175ml. Add a few drops of orange blossom water if you like. Pour over the couscous and leave to stand until all the water has absorbed. Fluff up and garnish with the almonds.

VARIATION: To turn into a one-pot with less meat: reduce the amount of lamb by half and cook at high pressure for 15 minutes. Add 250g root vegetables or squash, 250g cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans) and 1 sliced red pepper with the second batch of apricots. Bring up to high pressure for 2 minutes and naturally release again.

Broth 1 litre beef stock (see tip) 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 25g piece ginger, thinly sliced 1 small piece of cinnamon stick (around 4cm), broken up 3 star anise 2 cloves A few black peppercorns, crushed 1 tbsp dark soy sauce 1 tbsp fish sauce 1 tsp palm sugar or light soft brown sugar 200g sirloin steak, preferably frozen, to serve

1 small bunch of coriander and/or mint, to serve Lime wedges, to serve Soy sauce, to serve Chilli or sesame oil, to serve Pho 1 bunch of spring onions, sliced, white and green parts separated 1 carrot, cut into batons 200g egg noodles 200g Chinese greens Sea salt (optional)

1. First make the broth. Put the stock and all the aromatics, sauces and sugar into your pressure cooker. Bring up to high pressure, cook for 1 minute, then turn off the heat and leave it to drop pressure naturally. Leave sealed until you have prepped everything else, including the beef – this should be sliced as thinly as possible and is much easier to do if it is at least semi-frozen.

2. Strain the broth and discard all the aromatics. Transfer back to your pressure cooker and taste for seasoning – add salt and a little more soy sauce if necessary. Add the spring onion whites and carrot to the broth, then push in the noodles. Top with the Chinese greens.

Season with sea salt if you like.

3. Return to high pressure and immediately remove from the heat and fast release. Divide the sliced beef between 4 bowls. Top with the greens, followed by the noodles, then cover with broth. Serve with the spring onion greens, coriander and/or mint and lime wedges. You can also put soy sauce and chilli or sesame oil on the table for drizzling.

TIP: You can make this stock with a homemade stock or a shop-bought equivalent. >

Beautiful FOOD

SIMPLE BEEF PHO See recipe opposite

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“THIS IS A SHOWSTOPPER OF A casserole – IT’S A BIT OF A PERUVIAN AND CHINESE fusion IN TERMS OF FLAVOUR AND IS QUITE SOUPY” CATHERINE PHIPPS

PORK & GREENS WITH ORANGE & CHILLI See recipe below

PORK & GREENS WITH ORANGE & CHILLI Serves 4–6 (See above) 1 tbsp groundnut oil 1kg pork osso buco or ribs or 750g pork shoulder or belly pork, diced (see tip) 1 onion, thickly sliced 5 garlic cloves, grated or crushed 30g piece ginger, grated 1 star anise 1 tsp Chinese 5 spice 1 tbsp tomato puree 1–3 tsp hot chilli paste or sauce, according to taste 2 tbsp dark soy sauce Juice of 2 oranges

1 bunch of coriander, stems and leaves separated 400g greens, such as broccoli, sprouting broccoli, pak choy (bok choy) Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper TO SERVE Black rice (see variations) Sesame oil or chilli oil Spring onions, shredded

1. Heat the oil in your pressure cooker and add the meat. Sear on all sides to get some good colour, then remove from the cooker. Add the onion, garlic and ginger. Fry for a minute or two, then stir in spices, tomato puree and chilli paste or sauce.

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2. Return the pork to the cooker and turn over to coat with the spices, then add the soy sauce, orange juice and coriander stems. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Close the lid and bring up to high pressure. Cook for 30 minutes, then remove from the heat and allow to drop pressure naturally.

Remove the meat and keep warm. If the contents of the pot are looking very fatty, skim. Place the greens on top, bring up to high pressure and then remove from the heat and fast release.

4. Serve spooned over the rice with plenty of the broth. Drizzle with sesame or chilli oil and sprinkle with the coriander leaves and shredded spring onions.

TIP: You can use most cuts of pork for this casserole. On the bone will give the most flavour, but diced pork shoulder or even belly pork will work really well, just make sure you brown them very well and be prepared to skim for fat at the end.

VARIATION: Use Italian black rice. Cook for 20 minutes at high pressure and allow to drop pressure naturally. >

Beautiful FOOD

HOT & SOUR FISH CURRY See recipe on page 156

Beautiful FOOD

“THE FLAVOUR OF THIS fish curry DOESN’T SUFFER IN ANY WAY – THE MARINADE AND pressure cooking OF THE SAUCE ENSURES THIS” CATHERINE PHIPPS

HOT & SOUR FISH CURRY Serves 4 (See page 155) Fish

Zest and juice of 1 lime 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder 1 tsp ground turmeric Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 600g firm white fish fillets, skinned and cut into large chunks 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 tsp coconut oil, to garnish 12 fresh curry leaves, to garnish A few sprigs of coriander, to garnish

Sauce 1 tbsp coconut oil 1 onion, finely sliced 1 tsp mustard seeds 3 garlic cloves, crushed or grated 15g piece ginger, grated 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder ¼ tsp ground cinnamon 150g fresh tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped 400ml coconut milk 1 tsp concentrated tamarind paste

1. Firstly, put the lime zest and juice, chilli powder and turmeric in a bowl with 1 teaspoon of salt and plenty of ground black pepper.

Add the fish and turn over gently until completely covered, then add the garlic and just enough water to cover. Leave to marinate while you prepare the sauce.

2. Heat the coconut oil in your pressure cooker. Add the onion and cook on a medium heat until starting to change colour. Add the mustard seeds and keep cooking until they pop. Add the garlic, ginger and spices and stir for a further minute. Add the tomatoes, coconut milk and tamarind paste. Season with salt.

3. Close the lid and bring to high pressure. Adjust the heat until it is just high enough to maintain pressure, then cook for 3 minutes.

Allow to drop pressure naturally.

4. Drain the fish, then add this to the sauce. Either close the lid and bring up to low pressure, then immediately remove from the heat to drop pressure naturally, or leave to simmer in the sauce, uncovered, for 4–5 minutes until the fish is just cooked through.

5. Heat the coconut oil in a separate pan and add the curry leaves.

Fry until they are crackling and turning brown. Serve the curry garnished with the curry leaves and coriander.

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BLUEBERRY BUNDT CAKE Serves 6–8 (See opposite) Cake Cake release spray (optional) 75g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing (optional) 100g caster or light soft brown sugar Zest of 1 lemon 100g plain flour, plus extra for dusting (optional)

½ tsp baking powder 1 egg 75g sour cream or yoghurt 75g blueberries Icing (optional) 1 tbsp blueberries 1 tbsp lemon juice 150g icing sugar

1. Coat the inside of your bundt tin with cake release spray or butter and flour, tapping off any excess flour.

2. Cream the butter, sugar and lemon zest together until very soft and aerated. Add the flour, baking powder, egg and sour cream or yoghurt and combine. Fold the blueberries into the cake batter, then scrape into the prepared tin. Cover the tin with baking paper or foil and seal with string or a large elastic band.

3. Put 2cm water in the pressure cooker and balance the bundt tin on a trivet or steamer insert. Close the lid and bring up to high pressure. Cook for 35 minutes, then allow to drop pressure naturally.

Alternatively, for a very slightly lighter cake, steam for 15 minutes at no pressure, then at 30 minutes high pressure, natural release.

Turn out onto a wire rack to cool.

4. For the icing, put the blueberries into a saucepan with the lemon juice and heat until the berries burst. Push through a sieve, then add the liquid a teaspoon at a time to the icing sugar until you have the right consistency. Drop spoonfuls of icing on top of the cooled sponge, allowing them to glide down the side.

TIP: This can be served warm as a pudding or cold as a cake and I’ve given an icing option accordingly. The quantities of this recipe are for a 16cm–17cm bundt tin; you can also use it to make 6 little steamed puddings in ramekins or pudding basins instead.

VARIATION: For a Lemon & Raisin Rum Syrup version, swap the blueberries for 100g raisins. Put these in your pressure cooker with 100ml golden rum. Bring up to high pressure and remove from the heat to drop pressure naturally. Leave to cool and add in place of the blueberries. Make the icing by mixing the icing sugar with 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 1 teaspoon of rum with a few drops of warm water.

BLUEBERRY BUNDT CAKE See recipe opposite

This is an edited extract from Modern Pressure Cooking by Catherine Phipps, with photography by Andrew Hayes-Watkins, $50, published by Quadrille.

BEAUTIFUL

bathrooms

PHOTOGRAPHY ESS CREATIVE

IT’S ONE ROOM IN THE HOUSE THAT GETS EXTENDED DAILY USE FROM EVERYONE WHO LIVES THERE – SO IT MAKES SENSE TO ENSURE ANY BATHROOM TICKS THE BOXES IN DESIGN, FINISHES, FITTINGS AND FUNCTIONALITY. WE PROFILE SEVEN SENSATIONAL BATHROOMS AND SHOW YOU HOW TO RECREATE THE LOOK AT HOME

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Beautiful BATHROOMS Open and shut

THE CLIENTS WANTED TO INTEGRATE THE LEAFY COASTAL VIEWS INTO THE BATHROOM. THAT FEATURE WAS FACILITATED THROUGH SIGNATURE LOUVRE WINDOWS FROM BRADNAM’S WINDOWS AS WELL AS A GLASS SKYLIGHT FROM NATURAL LIGHTING PRODUCTS.

COASTAL

retreat

INFLUENCED BY ITS ENVIRONMENT, THIS SYDNEY BATHROOM DRAWS UPON NATURE TO BUILD A SANCTUARY Words LAURA BARRY Photography ESS CREATIVE

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his enviable bathroom is part of a second-storey addition to a property in the eastern Sydney suburb of Bronte, and was created by Alison Felstead, interior designer and owner of Naibu Design, in 2021. “The client’s brief was for a bathroom with a timeless aesthetic that took advantage of its location,” says Alison.

“By day, they wanted it to feel light and airy, but practical, as it’s the family bathroom and required lots of storage. They also wanted it to be a calming, yet sophisticated, space for the adults to retreat to.”

Alison chose a neutral colour scheme using Porter’s Paints Popcorn, and integrated texture through materials. Hardie Groove VJ sheet panels from James Hardie contrast with the Beaumont Tiles grey tiles and a black Pietra Bianca ‘Ryese’ freestanding stone bathtub from Cass Brothers. Brushed gold Mizu fittings from Reece and oak cabinetry from Ikea were selected to soften the overall look.

“Louvred windows were chosen to maximise natural light but offer ventilation and control airflow,” adds Alison. “The skylight was also important, to maximise the light and draw attention to the raked ceiling. It allows you to look up to the sky while in the bath, too.”

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1. Linsol ‘Spirit’ heated towel rail in Brushed Brass, $469, Harvey Norman. 2. Hardie Groove fibre cement lining (270cm x 120cm x 0.75cm), $154, Bunnings. 3. Issy ‘Z1 Ballerina’ mirror, $1200/90cm, Reece. 4. Poseidon ‘Stella’ freestanding acrylic bathtub in Matte Black, $1980/1700mm, Acqua Bathrooms. 5. Anchor ‘Earth Light’ indoor wall light in Speckled White Satin, from $930, Hub Furniture.

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“This style of bathroom doesn’t have to blow your budget,” says Alison. “You can spend on your hero piece, such as the bath, then save on other items such as cabinetry or tiles.”

Source book Interior design: Alison Felstead, Naibu Design, 0406 619 982, naibudesign.com.au, @naibudesign_

Geometry lesson

“A COMBINATION OF CIRCLES AND CURVES WERE USED TO CONTRAST THE HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL LINES,” SAYS ALISON OF THE ROUNDED BATH, BASIN, TAPWARE AND MIRROR, WHICH ALL SIT NICELY AGAINST THE LINES OF THE PANELS AND TILES.

Vanity fair

AN IKEA ‘GODMORGON’ WASHSTAND WITH DRAWERS IN A WHITE STAINED-OAK EFFECT HAS BEEN PAIRED WITH AN IKEA ‘USKEN’ COUNTERTOP IN WHITE QUARTZ FOR THE VANITY, WHICH HAS A ‘CONTURA’ INSET BASIN FROM CAROMA.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Rock solid

THE CENTRAL PIECE OF THIS BATHROOM IS THE DRAMATIC PIETRA BIANCA ‘RYESE’ 1600MM COMPOSITE STONE TUB, WHICH DRAWS YOUR EYE UPON ENTERING THE SPACE. “IT ADDS A REAL SENSE OF LUXURY,” SAYS ALISON. THE TOWEL RAIL IS FROM REECE.

A BLAND, BEIGE PALETTE IS SCRAPPED IN FAVOUR OF STRIKING BLACK, BRASS AND MARBLE IN A REINVIGORATED ENSUITE Words KYLIE JACKES Styling JACKIE BROWN Photography MAREE HOMER

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ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Fresh & MODERN

Beautiful BATHROOMS Perfect pairing

NATURAL STO NE AN D BRASS EVOK E A WAR M, TACTIL E F EEL . H ER E, TH E BR ODWAR E ‘ MINI M’ WA LL TA P SET A ND ‘PILSE N’ WA LL L IGH TS FR OM L IGHT CO ACCE NTUAT E TH E BRASSY TON ES F LEC KE D THR OU GH ‘SCARPA’ CALACATTA ORO S PL ASH BAC K MO SAIC S F ROM SU RFAC E GALLE RY. THE LOOK IS COM PL E TED W IT H BRO DWARE HAND TOWE L RA ILS, ‘H ENL EY’ VAN ITY HA ND LE S F ROM H EPBUR N HARDWAR E AND VERTICAL THERMOGROUP ‘T HE RM ORA IL S’ .

Practical magic

LI T T L E DETA IL S MA KE ALL T H E D IF FE REN CE. A N IC H E IN T HE SH OW ER RECE SS I S A S L EE K S HE L F FO R S OA PS , WI T H A BR ODWA RE ‘C ITY PLU S’ HA ND SH OWE R A N D S H OWE R R OS E S UI T I N G H OM EOW NE R A L IC I A’S PR EF ERE N CES . “I ALWAYS U SE T H E H A N D S H OW ER B UT MY H US BAN D R OB ERT LI KE S T H E OV ER H E A D O UT LET,” S H E SAYS . T H E S H OWE R O UT L ET G RAT E WAS CLE VER LY D E SI G N E D TO R UN IN CO NS P ICU O US LY ALONGSIDE THE REAR WALL.

Bold black

“ T HE I N T R ODUC T I O N O F B LACK GAVE A M ODER N E DG E A ND CO NT RAST E D WI T H T H E N E UT RAL T I LE PA L ET T E,” SAYS DE S IGN ER LAU RE N M A H O N EY OF S T UD IO T RI O. T H E VAN I T Y F R ON T S A R E I N D ULUX BLACK CAVIAR, WHILE. M AT T B L AC K A LU M I NI U M F RAM I NG WAS US ED TO H IGH L I GH T T H E MI RR ORS’ S CUL PT URAL L IN ES AND T H E S H OWER AR E A CU STO M M AD E BY ST UDIO T R IO. “ T HE S CRE E N A ND P IVOT D OO R I S MY FAVO UR IT E F EAT U RE ,” SAYS A LI CI A. “ TA K IN G T H E G L AS S A L L T H E WAY TO T H E CE IL I N G M AK ES T H E BAT HR O OM F EE L LA R GE R.” >

Beautiful BATHROOMS

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enovations can have a snowball effect. As you begin planning improvements in one area, other spaces often quickly follow. That was the case for Sydney homeowners Alicia and Robert – they initially thought they’d simply update their kitchen, but after enlisting the talent of Studio Trio creative director Lauren Mahoney, they expanded the scope of the renovation to include four bathrooms and a laundry.

“The ensuite in particular had bugged me for years,” says Alicia.

“There wasn’t enough clearance between the shower door and the toilet and the entry door, so we decided to tackle it all and moved out for the renovation, just two weeks before I was due to have our third child.”

Despite the compact footprint, Lauren devised clever changes, which improved usability and transformed it from bland beige into a dramatic space layered with texture, bold accents and beautiful brass fixtures.

“We solved the entry issue with a barn door, removed a bulkhead to level the ceiling, redesigned the shower area with a strategically placed pivot door for improved access and ran the custom vanity wall to wall, to accentuate the length of the ensuite,” she says.

Now back home again, Alicia couldn’t be happier with the result.

“It functions wonderfully, and the design elements and combination of finishes create the illusion that it’s more spacious than it is,” she says.

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Design tip

Source book Interior design: Studio Trio, (02) 9967 3060, studiotrio.com.au.

Builder: TPS & Co Construction, 0401 370 367, tpsconstruction.com.au.

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1. Troy Lighting ‘Pilsen’ wall sconce in Modern Bronze and Aged Brass, $545.99, Ideas 4 Lighting. 2. Calacatta Vagli Oro natural stone, from $880/sqm, Signorino. 3. ‘Eccentric’ hand shower and integrated wall union in Gold Brushed, $599, Rogerseller. 4. Dulux Wash & Wear paint in ‘Black Caviar’, $101.50/4L. 5. ‘Gaspard’ glass vase, $249, Maison Balzac. 6. Floral Street ‘Wonderland Bloom’ scented candle, $68, Mecca. 7. Moroccan zellige tiles in Igloo (100mm x 100mm), $318/sqm, Surface Gallery. 8. Jentl ‘Rose Quartz’ facial roller, $39.95, Hardtofind. 9. ‘Paros Rib’ bath towel set in Sand, $179, Aura Home.

10. Saardé ‘Lale’ brass toothbrush holder, $39, Jakk & Co.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

A tonal mix of tiles in a range of sizes, shapes and textures can create the foundation for a beautiful palette. “As a general rule of thumb, we tend to stick to a maximum of three different tiles,” says Lauren. “We often recommend large-format tiles for the floor, which are a great practical solution, teamed with natural or textured tiles on vertical surfaces. Often it helps to choose your feature tile first, whether it’s patterned, natural stone or a statement colour, then follow with complementary selections to pick up the tones of the focal finish.”

Savvy vanity

“ T H E TWO O F U S AR E N EV ER I N HE RE AT THE SA ME TI M E ,” SAYS A L IC IA , “ S O IT M ADE S E N S E TO J U S T H AV E O NE BAS I N, WHI C H MA X IM I S ED B EN C H S PAC E.” SH E LOV E S T HE S L EE K AP P EAL O F THE HONED CALACATTA ORO TOP F RO M S TU DI O TRI O AN D T HE AST RA WA LK E R ‘ RON A’ BAS IN. “ W E S P EC I F I E D DRAW E RS W HI C H RAN WAL L TO WA L L A N D CO NCE ALE D E LEC TRI CA L O U T L E TS , S O AS N OT TO I N T E R RUP T T H E M OSAI C S P L ASH BAC K ,” SAYS L AU RE N, W HOS E T E A M DE SI G NE D A N D M AD E THE BLACK FRAM E D S H AVI N G C AB I NE T M IR R OR S .

THE SIDE WALL SHOWS THE M OR O CC A N Z E L LIG E TIL ES I N I G LOO, F RO M SUR FAC E GAL LE RY, I N AL L THE IR TON AL , T E X T U RAL GLORY.

Beautiful BATHROOMS

GREEN

state

VIBRANT PATTERN AND A SUBTLE GREEN PALETTE GIVE THIS ART-DECO BATHROOM A CONTEMPORARY EDGE Words LAURA BARRY Styling LYDIA MASKIELL

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Photography NICK HANSEN

ated, brown and vinyl-wrapped, the bathroom in this Launceston terrace in Tasmania was a little unloved when interior designer Lydia Maskiell first encountered it in 2021. “The apartment was being converted into an Airbnb, and the client wanted a bold memorable space, one with colour and a touch of quirkiness. The client also requested the bath be removed,” says Lydia. “As the Art-Deco apartment was built in 1935, we wanted to create a transitional style that referenced that aesthetic.”

Geometric patterned Southern Cross Ceramics floor tiles from Rossetto Tiles were paired with crisp white walls in Dulux Lexicon quarter strength while black tapware from Phoenix provided a modern twist in the scheme. The timber panel at the front of the compact ADP Australia vanity from Elite Appliances adds a touch of warmth to the space, and the green in the floor tiles has been amplified by the green subway tiles from Beaumont Tiles on the walls. “Green was a natural choice, as it draws upon the original green kitchen benchtop and details that already existed in the house,” says Lydia.

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“Often people are daunted with too much pattern and texture in a small space such as a bathroom, but I believe it has the opposite effect,” says Lydia. “An area filled with texture, warmth and pattern is not only more interesting to be in, but can also visually open up the space, too.”

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1. ‘Caterpillar A’ wall light, $194, About Space. 2. ‘Flounder’ subway tiles in Emerald (70mm x 185mm), $255/sqm, Perini.

3. Miss April ‘Albatross’ bath sheet, $99, Temple & Webster.

4. Southern Cross Ceramics ‘Artisan Cologne’ tile in Tundra (200mm x 200mm), from $274/sqm, Rossetto Tiles. 5. Dulux Wash & Wear paint in ‘Lexicon’, $85.90/4L. 6. Phoenix ‘Teel’ basin mixer in Matte Black, $406, Blue Leaf Bathware & Tiles.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Design tip

Source book Interior design: Lydia Maskiell Interiors, 0437 535 609, lydiamaskiell.com.

Light and easy

AS T H E BAT H ROO M I S A CO M PACT SPACE , LY DI A WAS CO NS CI O US OF NOT OPTICALLY SHRINKING T HE RO OM W IT H H E AVY DI V I DE RS O R PA RT I TI O N S , SO CHO S E A CUS TOM F RA ME LE SS GLASS SH OW ER SCREEN FROM CLEARVIEW GL ASS TO K EEP TH E AR EA AS V I S UA L LY OP EN AS PO SS I B LE , WH IL E AL LOWIN G LIG H T TO PAS S I N TO T H E BAT H RO O M F REE LY.

Crucial details

THE CO MPO SI TION O F TH E VAN ITY, MI RRO R AN D WAL L L IGHT AS TH E JEW EL OF THIS S PACE, ACCO RD I NG TO LYD IA . “ THE RE IS A BEAUTY IN THE SIMPLICITY O F T HE B L ACK DE TAILI NG WHICH IS FRESH, BALANCED AND SPEAKS TO A MODERN ART-DECO STYL E,” SH E SH AR ES . VANIT Y A ND M IR ROR , A DP AUS TRALI A. WAL L L IGH T, AB OU T SPACE.

Marble MARVEL

WOW FACTOR WAS A MUST IN THIS DECADENT ENSUITE, WHICH PROVIDES AN ESCAPE FROM THE EVERYDAY Words KYLIE JACKES Styling JUSTIN BISHOP Photography ALEX REINDERS

Beautiful BATHROOMS

Sculptural soaking

“BAT H S PO S IT I O N ED IN FRONT OF WINDOWS LOOK WONDERFUL, AS THEY CAN BASK I N A N A B UN DA NCE O F N AT U RA L LI GH T A N D TA KE ADVA N TAG E O F A V IE W,” SAYS I N T ER IO R DE SI GN E R JUS TI N BI SH OP, WH O M AS T E RM I N D ED TH I S PR OJ ECT I N M EL B OU R NE .

THE SLEEK, CONTEMPORARY SHAPE OF AN ‘OXBOW’ BATH FR O M C A N DA NA I N JEC T S A MO D ER N F EEL . “PA I RI N G I T WIT H TRA DI T I O N A L TAPWARE ENSURED IT SAT COH E SI V ELY WI T H I N T H E OV ERAL L LO OK A ND FEE L ,” AD D S J US T I N O F T H E B RO DWA RE ‘ NU E E N GL A N D’ BATH M I X ER W I T H H AN D SH OWE R. A PO L IS H ED N I CKEL ETAG ER E S HE L F FR O M POT T ERY BA R N KE EP S ACCOU T RE M EN TS WI T H IN REAC H. WH E N N EED ED M O KU M ‘AU R O RA’ SH EER CURTAI N S FR O M JA M ES DUN LOP T EXT I L ES CAN BE DRAWN TO DI FF US E S UN L I GH T. >

HOME BEAUTIFUL

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Beautiful BATHROOMS

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hen Candace and husband Glenn were discussing the concept for the design and build of their home in the Melbourne bayside suburb of Brighton, the words they kept coming back to were ‘elegant’, ‘timeless’ and ‘luxurious’. “I didn’t want to pigeonhole when the house was done,” says Candace, who asked designer Justin Bishop to devise the interiors.

Spanning three years from design to completion, this ensuite was an eagerly anticipated room. “I wanted it to be an enjoyable space to be in, which felt light and beautiful, and the standout feature I just had to have were the stunning mosaics used on the floor,” says Candace.

Adds Justin: “The grey and white palette flowed throughout the entire home and continued into the ensuite so every space felt cohesive.” He specified small yet important details, from the crystal chandelier and luxe velvet entrance curtain, to the ‘Neu England’-style tapware and elegant and ingenious marble tile transitions.

That three-year wait was worth it. “I often look around and think, I’m so lucky,” says Candace. “When I’m not in the ensuite, I can still admire it from the bedroom and it’s just beautiful.”

Wet zone

“D O UB LE SHOWE RS IN A N ENSU ITE A RE A LUXU RI O US TOUC H A ND H ERE T H EY MA K E U SE OF THE VAS T F LO OR AR EA,” EXP L AI NS JUS T I N. C US TOM ISE D TO S UI T T H E HOM EOW NE RS’ TAST E , T H E SPACE F EAT URES A B E N CH SE AT CL A D IN HO N ED M ARBLE, OVER H EA D RAINS HOWER S AS WEL L AS A HAND SHOWER F R O M T HE BRODWA RE ‘NU E E NGL AN D ’ COLL ECTI ON. TWI N WA L L M IRROR S APPEAR W I T H A STORAGE N ICH E.

GET THE LOOK

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Unique mosaics

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1. Perrin & Rowe shaving mirror in Nickel, $1030, The English Tapware Company. 2. Steve Cordony ‘Labyrinth’ channel Carrara and thassos marble tiles (305mm x 305mm sheets), $220/box of 5, Perini. 3. French basket chandelier, $386, Designer Chandelier.

4. Calacatta marble in White (600mm x 600mm), $39.25/sqm, Tilemall. 5. Humphrey and Schutz ‘Oxford’ bath-shower diverter in Chrome, $849, Early Settler. 6. Marquis lotion dispenser, $24.95, Provincial Home Living. 7. Seneca Home ‘Vida Cord Stitch’ bath towel, $69.99, and hand towel, $29.99, both Manchester Warehouse.

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WH I LE M ARB L E F EAT U RES IN A L L T H E BATH R O OMS O F T HI S H O ME , CUS TO M MA DE CAR RA RA , T H ASSO S AN D BARD I GL I O M A R B LE MOSAI C S WE RE US ED JUS T IN T H E EN S UI T E. “ STAYI N G WITHIN THE CARRARA MA RB LE FA MI LY E NS URE D IT DID N ’T LOO K O UT O F PL ACE,” SAY J US T I N OF T H E BEAUTIFULLY LAID MOSAICS, WHICH CAST PATTERN AND IN T E RES T ACR O SS TH E FLO OR . “ WHEN MI X ING PAT T ER N S, LE SS I S M O RE , SO WE PAR ED BACK THE OT H ER FI NI S HE S , W I TH A P UR E WH IT E MA R BL E IN A B R I CK L AY O N THE WA L LS AN D RA N H ONE D STAT UA RI O MA RB LE OV ER T HE VA N I T Y TO P A N D SP LASH BAC K, TO PI CK UP T H E GRE Y TO N ES IN T H E M O SAIC S.”

Luxury abounds

S P RI N KL ED W I T H L AV I S H E MB EL LI SH ME NT S , T H IS F EE LS LI K E AN ES CA P E F R OM T H E EV ERYDAY. M OK U M ‘ V IN TAGE ’ V ELVE T C URTAI N S I N GRA PH IT E F R OM JA ME S DU N LOP T EXT I L ES , GAT H ER ED W I T H A P E ARL D E S IG N CU RTA IN TASSEL TIE-BACK (AVAILABLE T H RO UG H J US TI N BI SH O P INTERIOR DESIGN) PROVIDE D EF IN I T IO N B E T WEEN T H E W ET A REA AN D T HE WA LK-T HRO UG H WA RDR OB E .

A C RYS TA L CH A N DE LI ER S O URCE D F R O M D ESI GN ER C H AN DE LI ER AD DS S PA RKL E A N D S T UN N IN G AM B IE N CE AT N IG H T, WH ILE MAGN I F YI N G M IR R ORS SO UR CE D ON L I N E H AN G A LO N GS IDE S OA RIN G VAN I T Y CA B I N ET MIR RO RS , F U RT H E R ACC EN T UAT I N G T H E R OO M’ S G EN ER O US PR O PO RT I ON S .

Design tip “I often work with a monochromatic palette to create a classic, timeless feel,” says Justin. “In this case, the neutral warm grey Carrara was the starting point for all subsequent selections.

To prevent a monochromatic scheme looking bland, it’s important to use a mix of tones and materials to create differentiation, yet restraint is key. I like to use light and dark variations of a single colour and add one or two patterned tonal elements for a balanced look which is easy on the eye.

Another tip when working with any neutral colour scheme is to stick to either warm or cool tones.”

Source book Interior design: Justin Bishop Interior Design, (03) 9988 6193, justinbishop.com.au.

Architect: Christopher Doyle Architects, (03) 9867 2117, christopherdoylearchitects.com.

Builder: Sherridon Homes, sherridonhomes.com.au.

Beautiful BATHROOMS

ELEGANT

simplicity

A CLEVER COMBINATION OF PATTERN, TEXTURE AND METALLICS IMBUES THIS SOPHISTICATED BATHROOM WITH OLD-SCHOOL GLAMOUR Words LAURA BARRY Styling MEGAN MORTON Photography PABLO VEIGA

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hen a couple of empty-nesters in Sydney decided to renovate their home, they turned to director and design principal, Alexandra Kidd of Alexandra Kidd Design. “Our clients were dreaming of a home designed just for them, with space for both their grown children and parents to visit. They hadn’t embarked on a bespoke renovation before and wanted to create something that captured their lifestyle,” explains Alexandra, who says a separate toilet was on the wish list. This was achieved by reconfiguring the original bathroom and a hallway.

“The bathroom was seen as the perfect opportunity to create a luxurious space,” says Alexandra. The clients wanted an Art-Deco aesthetic, so Alexandra paired walnut timber joinery with powdery Porter’s Paints Bone on the walls and touches of brass. “It’s a more restrained palette than would usually be found within an ArtDeco home, but better suited to the small space and our clients’ dream for a timeless home that could adapt with the seasons,” says Alexandra.

GET THE LOOK

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Design tip According to Alexandra, the key to recreating a look such as this is to choose a refined colour palette and focus on creating strong lines and angles, and incorporating texture for interest.

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1. ‘White Attica’ engineered quartz, from $700/sqm, Caesarstone.

2. Glass rod sconce in Aged Gold, $995, Coco Republic. 3. Vera Wang ‘Vera Bande’ vase, $159, Wedgwood. 4. ‘Ponti Grande’ marble tile in Verde (160mm x 160mm), $389/sqm, Greg Natale.

5. Modern National ‘Montpellier’ high rise gooseneck basin mixer in Brushed Bronze, $398.90, Bathroom Warehouse. 6. ‘Form’ oval basin in White Gloss, $799, Studio Bagno.

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Textured touch

T HE RI P PL ED, N AR ROW LI N E GL AS S, F RA MEL ESS S HOWE R SC R EEN FR O M B OND I G LASS WAS C H OS EN AS A NOD TO THE ART-DECO S T YL E O F THE S C H EM E, WH I LE E NS U RI NG N ATURAL LI G HT S T RE AM S I NTO TH E SPACES. BRASS TAPWARE FR O M B R ODWARE WAS A L SO I NC LUDE D FOR ITS A RT- DECO ST YL E .

Old-school glamour

I N O RD ER TO IN J EC T SO M E 1 9 20 S O LD H O L LYWO OD GL A M O UR IN TO THE BAT H R O O M, A LEX AN D RA A D DE D G OL D- CO LO UR ED CYLINDRICAL WALL LIGHTS FR O M CO CO R E PUB L IC O N E I T HE R S I DE O F TH E MIRRORED CABINET, WH I CH WAS CUSTO M M A DE BY SY DN EY- BASE D J OI N E RY CO MPA N Y B OBE R I N P E RS I AN WA L NUT T IM B E R V EN EER W ITH CARRARA MARBLE BENCHTOP. ‘TRIBUTE’ OVAL SINK, CAROMA.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Floor work

T HE G R EG NATA LE ‘ P O N TI G RA ND E ’ F LO OR T IL E S I N V ER DE ARE THE C E NT R E P I EC E OF THI S BAT H R O O M, A N D T HE PAT TE RN P ROVI DE S A B OL D, G RAPH IC EL E ME N T TO T HE SC HE ME , W I THOUT CO M PE TI NG W ITH THE OT HE R DES I GN FEATUR ES FOR AT TE NTI ON.

Source book Interior design: Alexandra Kidd Design, (02) 9331 1554, alexandrakidd.com.

Beautiful BATHROOMS

FEDERATION fancy AN OVERHAULED ENSUITE EVOKES LUXURY AND CLASSIC CHARM IN KEEPING WITH THIS SYDNEY HOME’S ORIGINS Words KYLIE JACKES Styling GEORGIA BOYD Photography THOMAS DALHOFF

Changeable accents

O N E O F THE B ENE FI TS O F A S IM P LE BLAC K-AN DW HI T E BASE PA LE TTE IS T HAT IT PA I R S B E AU TI FUL LY W IT H ALM O S T ANY OTHE R COLO UR , M A KI N G I T E ASY TO I NT ROD U CE ACCEN T H U ES . T HE S E LEC TI ON OF D E E P G R E E N ACC ES SO RI ES HERE INCLUDES CALVIN K LE IN TOWE LS , A VAS E F RO M T HE B OAT H O US E – PALM BE AC H, A ND D E S I G N ER B OYS’ BOTANICAL P R I NT (AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CLASSIC OUTFITTER), A N D WAS I N S P IR E D BY T HE L E A F Y OU TLO OK FRAM ED

BY T H E DOU B LE DO O RS .

Revised layout

T HE OL D S HOWER , TO IL E T, BAT H AN D VANI TY HUGG E D T HE P E R I MET E R, LE AVIN G A L A RG E , UNU T I LI SE D CENTRAL AREA. DESIGNER G EO R G I A B OYD’ S S OLUTI ON WAS TO AD D A CE N TRAL WA L L T ILE D I N SPAN IS H SUBWAY TILES FROM T ERA N OVA . “ T H IS AL LOW ED FO R A LA R G E R S HOW ER A N D VA NI TY, H ID THE TOI L ET A ND S H I FTE D THE FO C US TO T H E BATH AN D VAN IT Y,” SH E SAYS. THE VICTORIA + ALBERT ‘AMIATA’ BAT H I S T E A M ED W I TH A N ‘ E DWA RD I AN’ FLOO RM OU NT E D TAP FRO M AS TRA WA L K E R , A N D TA KE S IN VIEWS FROM THE BA LCONY F RE NCH D OO R S. “FR IE N DS SA I D I WO UL D N’ T USE A BAT H, B U T I LOVE IT,” SAYS HO M EOWN E R KI R STY. “ W IT H THE OU TLOO K, I T’S I N C RE DI B LY R EL AXI N G.” >

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“The addition of wainscotting really added character which softened the space” KIRSTY, HOMEOWNER

Beautiful BATHROOMS GET THE LOOK

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hen Kirsty and her husband Phil bought their Sydney harbourside home eight years ago, they were keen to reinstate some Federation-inspired elements, albeit with a modern sensibility. “We believe it was built as a three-storey guesthouse around 1908 and renovated about 20 years ago, during which time a lot of the original features were removed,” explains Kirsty. “Our aim as we gradually renovated each level was to add some character and warmth back.”

Following a kitchen transformation, which set the foundation for a black-and-white scheme throughout, the couple engaged designer Georgia Boyd of The Classic Outfitter to reimagine their large, yet lacklustre ensuite on the second floor. “The key objective was to make better use of the space, which we did by splitting the room and hiding the shower and toilet behind a new central tiled wall,” says Georgia.

On the opposite side of the wall, a new freestanding bath and custom vanity became the hero of the space, as did newly painted French doors which open out to a balcony and frame the lush greenery beyond.

“The changes altered not only the look of the space, but also the feel,” says Kirsty. “Now it’s an inviting room where I enjoy spending time.”

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“Originally the ensuite was big and soulless, and now it’s warmer and more inviting” KIRSTY, HOMEOWNER Design tip

Source book Interior design: Georgia Boyd, The Classic Outfitter, (02) 9958 4500, theclassicoutfitter.com.

Joinery: The Kitchen Maker, (02) 9905 5028, thekitchenmaker.com.au.

Builder: Kirk Saunders, 0415 655 169.

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1. Visual Comfort ‘Payson’ sconce in Polished Nickel, $960, Laura Kincade. 2. ‘Botanical Bliss V’ artwork by Designer Boys, $715/1076mm x 870mm (framed), Living by Design. 3. ‘Harlow’ porcelain tiles in Solis Black (200mm x 200mm), $59/sqm, Perini.

4. Chinoiserie ceramic garden stool, $249, Zjoosh. 5. Ithika Gifts + Lifestyle ‘The Gift Label Amsterdam It’s All In Your Hands’ hand soap, $29.95/500ml, Hardtofind. 6. Nicolazzi ‘Adore’ basin set in Satin Nickel, $1543, Reece. 7. Victoria + Albert ‘York’ freestanding bath in Gloss White, $4219/174cm, Harvey Norman.

8. ‘Calo’ bath towel set in Olive, $129, Country Road.

9. ‘Lido’ cane basket, $115/50cm, Living Styles.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

Bathrooms don’t have to be entirely clad with tiles. “By limiting wall tiles to wet areas only, such as the shower and carrying through architectural wall panelling, it allows the bathroom to feel more like a room,” says Georgia. “Additional touches such as dimmable wall sconces, ample bench space to style, soft window coverings and wall art, also help set the ambience for an inviting retreat, which encourages you to unwind.”

Luxe lustre

K IR ST Y LOV E S B R US H ED N I C KEL’S C L AS S IC A PP EA L . G EORG I A H AS I N T RO DUCE D I T WI T H ‘ E DWARD IA N ’ H OB S ET S F ROM AST RA WAL K ER, H EPB UR N H A RDWA RE D RAW ER PU L L S, EMAC & LAWTON ‘EAST BORNE’ N I C KEL LI G H T S A N D NICKEL BAMBOO MIRRORS (AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CLASSIC OUTFITTER), P LU S H YD ROT H ER M ‘B S ERI ES’ H EAT ED TOWEL RA I LS . “WE HA D N I CKEL D O O R F RA M ES I N T H E A DJ O I N I NG DRES SI N G R O O M, S O I T WAS N IC E TO CARRY THE LOOK T H RO UG H,” SAYS K I RS T Y.

Classic combo

STRIKI NG ‘A M I TY BLAC K’ TIL ES F ROM TERAN OVA WE RE TH E STA RTI NG POINT, ACC ENT UAT ING TH E VAS T FLO OR AR EA A ND SETTING THE TO NE . “ WE CA R RIE D THE BL ACK U P THE VA NITY AN D THE FRE NC H D OORS , BOTH PAI NTED I N PO RT ER’S PA I NTS L EA DE N,” SAYS GEOR GI A .

TRA DI TION AL WA INSCOTIN G IN D ULU X NATU RAL W HI TE QUA RTER IS A S UBTL E BACK D ROP IMBUED W ITH TEXTU RAL INTER ES T.

Beautiful BATHROOMS

Colour WASH

A BRIGHT WHITE PALETTE WITH POPS OF GREEN AND TIMBER-LOOK TILES TRANSFORMED A TIRED ’90S BATHROOM INTO A FUN, FABULOUS AND FUNCTIONAL FAMILY SPACE Words LAURA BARRY Styling IVY + PIPER Photography HANNAH PUECHMARIN

Colour school

A COLO UR PA L E T TE OF W HI T E A ND G R E EN W IT H T IM B ER ACCE N T S IS AN E LEGA N T S C HE M E T HAT W ILL E ND UR E T HE T EST O F T I ME . S MA LL D ETAI L S, S U CH AS TH E FAU X-M AR B LE P OR C EL A I N TI L E AN D L I T T L E W HI T E CO LO NI AL C E RA MI C CA P T IL E, B OTH F RO M CO N C EPT TIL ES , P R OVI DE DE P T H AN D CON T RAS T WI T HO U T COM P E T I NG FO R ATT E NT I O N W I T H OT HE R F EAT U RE S O F T HE BAT H RO O M.

Low maintenance

A BAC K-TO -WA L L BAT H, S U CH AS TH I S ONE F RO M R EEC E , G I VES T HE AP P E A RAN C E O F A F R EE S TAND I N G BATH, W HI L E AL S O M AK I N G C L E AN I NG A B RE E ZE .

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Personal touch

MEL A N I E A N D E LI ZA BE T H OF I V Y + P I PE R B E L IEV E T HAT BAT H RO O M S ARE T HE PER FEC T PLAC E TO AD D A Q UI RK Y TO UCH OR E X PRE S S YO UR PER SO N ALI TY. “T H E T UR N E D-T I MB E R WAL L LI GH T S S OFT E N ED TH E RECTA N GUL A R L I NE S IN TH E RO O M, A ND TH E SH A DE S FELT M ORE PL AY FUL W HEN W E RA N T HE EMB ROI D ERE D S TR I P E ON T H E B I AS,” SAYS MEL A N I E. WA L L LI G HT S AR E F R OM M OTI VO IN MEL B O UR NE.

Classic style

PAINT COLOUR MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

TH E BAT H RO O M VAN IT Y IS A CUS TOM DES I GN BY IV Y + PIP ER M AD E BY FO CUS O N KI TC HEN S WI T H A CAE SA RS TO N E BEN CH TOP AN D K A DO C H RO M E TA PWARE FROM REECE. CH ROM E I S A T I MEL ES S FI N IS H T H AT WO N ’ T DATE TH E S CH E M E, W HI L E WA LN UT TO UCH E S, S UCH AS T H E I V Y + PI PER MI R RO R S, A DD MAS CUL IN E EN E R GY TO T HE BATH R OOM. AN T I QU E B E NT WOOD STOO L , CLIE N T ’S OW N. ‘K EW’ KN O BS , H EP BUR N HA RDWAR E. >

Beautiful BATHROOMS

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light, airy and fresh aesthetic with a classic feel was chosen for this bathroom renovation in Queensland. Completed by Elizabeth Flekser and Melanie Parker of interior design studio Ivy + Piper, it required extra storage, a separate toilet a powder room zone, and a full-size bath to work for a family of five.

“The bathroom was a very tired, early ’90s two-way bathroom with a separate wash station and powder room,” says Melanie. “It was very cream with a tiny bath and semi-recessed basins, and there was a lot of misused space in the original design and limited storage.”

The homeowner wanted a durable bathroom with a bright interior that complemented the rest of the recently renovated house, but was also appropriately styled for a home with three growing boys. “We utilised the existing double-hung aluminium window and housed it within the shower space. We also repositioned a skylight to maximise the natural light, which made a huge difference,” says Elizabeth.

“We used a timber-look porcelain tile from Concept Tiles to echo the timber floors throughout the home for continuity. They give the classic white shaker cabinets from Focus On Kitchens and marble-look tiles from Concept Tiles some grounding and add a masculine element, as do the Ivy + Piper ‘Octavia’ mirrors in walnut. To ensure the room was bright and fresh, we used white penny rounds from ASA Tiles Australia in the shower for textural contrast.”

A crisp splash of green in Dulux Lady Fern was added to the top half of the walls for some impact. However, it’s the double shower design that stands out as the hero feature. “In an irregular-shaped bathroom, we needed a visually exciting focal point,” explains Melanie.

“The double shower was the perfect feature – its half-height nib walls house niches to conveniently conceal all those unsightly shampoo bottles, which makes the space feel organised.”

Design staple

HE RR I N GB ON E I S A CLAS S IC D ES I GN S TA PL E, WH I CH DO E SN ’ T F EE L TO O ‘T REN DY’, SAYS EL I ZA BE T H. “IN T H I S BAT HR O OM I T L EADS T H E EY E TO T H E FO CAL POINT,” SHE SAYS. T IMB ER-LO O K PO RC EL A I N HE RR I N GB ON E T I LES FR OM CO N CE P T T I L ES .

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Design tip “Don’t be afraid to juxtapose multiple tile shapes. Utilising a nib wall for a double shower is a lovely traditional look and gives you the opportunity to create the element of surprise by laying the shower floor with a contrasting tile,” says Elizabeth.

“If you’re feeling frightened, pick the same shade of tile as the main floor and just swap out the shape or scale.”

Source book Interior design: Elizabeth Flekser and Melanie Parker, directors, Ivy + Piper, 0432 334 286, ivyandpiper.com.au.

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5 GET THE LOOK 1. Pom pom towel in Multi Colour, $89.99, Seven Seas Australia.

2. Mini ‘Double Rachel’ sconce in Swedish Gray, $605, Dunes and Duchess. 3. ‘Elegance’ timber-look plank in Tortora Matt (200mm x 1200mm), $107.05/sqm, Beaumont Tiles. 4. Dulux Wash & Wear paint in ‘Lady Fern’, $101.50/4L. 5. ‘Kew’ knob in Satin Nickel, $14.95/small, Hepburn Hardware. 6. Thonet ‘Paris’ bentwood low stool, $224, Huset.

ACTUAL PAINT COLOURS MAY VARY ON APPLICATION

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INTERNAL DRAWERS INSIDE YOUR EXISTING CUPBOARDS

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OUTDOOR TILES & CRAZY PAVING COMEDIAN DAVID SMIEDT TAKES AN IRREVERENT, BUT APPRECIATIVE, LOOK AT THE CLASSIC THINGS THAT DEFINE YOU-BEAUT AUSSIE LIFE Illustration MATT COSGROVE

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t is human nature to decorate, beautify one’s home and make it stand out from the neighbours. Between the 1880s and 1930s, as dwellings mushroomed into the suburbs, on our front doorsteps we created what amounted to street art long before the term existed.

We’re talking street-facing outdoor tiles. Even what were once the most modest working-class semis in areas such as Sydney’s Newtown – now bargains at a mere $1.8 mill – still fly this flag. You just need to know where to look. And that direction is down, at that square metre or two between the front gate and the front door.

Blue-collar Victorian and Federation homes may have been practically identical in their silhouettes and modest in their flourishes, but it was in the tiling choices that homeowners could let aesthetic aspirations fly.

Aside from giving decorators the chance to use the word ‘tessellated’, the trend provided tradesfolk the opportunity to blend geometry and art.

Tessellated tiles are essentially loose pieces in different shapes, sizes and colours. We loved the magnolia creams, outback russets, eucalyptus greens and hydrangea blues. Laid in a repeating kaleidoscopic pattern with a border, the best were made from vitrified porcelain, although clay and stone also figured. The downside is that they were (and are) so striking and symmetrical that when one tiny element cracked or went missing, it stood out like a neon velvet sectional in a minimalist cottage.

As a result, one member of the household was dispatched to a store with too many Es in its name – Ye Olde Englishe Tilee Shoppe – and told not to return home until a precise colour match was found. These fragmented masterpieces could be rather slick and slippy so you also got to admire the workpersonship up close when you returned home from the pub on a wet evening or the shops laden with groceries.

This was, however, a fashion – and as with all trends, it was eventually replaced. This time with something crazy. As in paving.

This variety of hard surface finishing was as ubiquitous in the 1970s as the Osmonds, flares and grown Aussie men in inappropriately tiny

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shorts. Weird fact: it was actually invented by the Romans where it went by the Latin name ‘insanus extruendo’, or something like that.

Despite the name verging on the politically incorrect – cue an old man in the pub yelling, “You can’t even say ‘crazy paving’ anymore!”

– the title is somewhat of a misnomer. That’s mainly because even though the name implies haphazardness in the extreme, the irregularly shaped paving stones are actually a finely tuned jigsaw puzzle of sorts.

Where CP did trump mosaics was in its versatility. Pathways, driveways, gardens, patios and pool areas all got the treatment. Another attractive factor was that you could go monochrome or use a mix of stone in complementary hues. And, to borrow a phrase from seemingly every PR working in 2002, the offering could be “elevated” by using a contrasting mortar colour. White on slate grey was a popular option.

“Crazy paving was as ubiquitous in the 1970s as the Osmonds, flares and grown Aussie men in inappropriately tiny shorts” Here’s something we bet you didn’t know about crazy paving. Due to its popularity in our homes, it became visual shorthand in other spheres. Particularly medicine, where it can be referred to both as “mottled and depigmented skin” and – deep breath – “the appearance of ground-glass opacities with superimposed interlobular septal thickening and intralobular septal thickening” as seen on a CT scan.

While we live to liven up your dinner party/water cooler/work Zoom chat, crazy paving now taps into a green trend that we are fully behind.

Namely, it lends itself to the use of repurposed and scrap materials. The odd shapes, lack of symmetry and irregular edges that might once have seen certain stones rejected become points of fascination and uniqueness.

As the Romans might have said, that is bloody bonzer.

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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.

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