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a real living PROMO T ION

COMFORT ZONE When a workspace gets regular use, comfort is key. Ergonomic chairs and functional style will help create optimum results

The Scarborough chair’s lumbar support and adjustable arms provide essential ergonomic comfort.

STYLE SEEKER Scarborough twin-cab desk in Gloss White, $299, and ergonomic medium-back chair in Navy, $179. Chair also available in Charcoal with white frame or Black with black frame.

If you’re designing an all-day office, a large desk is essential to provide enough room for your computer, paperwork and phone. Generate a sense of space by positioning the desk away from the wall but still within easy reach of power points. Facing it towards a window can help provide a focal point.

Style tip A white-themed space is easy to update and restyle regularly with personal touches like coloured accessories or fresh flowers.

V I S I T O F F I C E W O R K S . C O M . A U / L O O K B O O K F O R M O R E W O R K S PA C E I N S P I R AT I O N

Make an understated impression.

Available in ďŹ ve neutral colours, from subtle, lighter tones through to bolder, darker hues, COLORBOND steel Matt diffuses light to create a soft and textured appearance. Tested in some of Australia’s harshest conditions, its strength and durability are perfect counterpoints to its designer appearance.

Visit COLORBOND.COM/MATT or call 1800 702 764

COLORBOND and the BlueScope brand mark are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited.

2018 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.

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L OV I N G 12 SHELF SERVICE Give your kitchen a mini makeover and treat your shelves to some stylish new cookware and colourful decor. The brighter, the better!

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3 6 BRIGHT HEIGHTS This young couple’s brownstone apartment is an entertainer’s paradise, from the movie projector to the custom bar and dining space

4 6 ART MOVEMENT 19 FAVE FINDS Our monthly list of the things we love

An entrepreneur with a love of contemporary art and vintage design trades in her city life for an old farmstead in the Italian countryside

2 2 SPACE CRUSH Vipp Chimney House is a cutting-edge private hotel in a rather unexpected heritage building

2 4 BEAUTY SPOT

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5 8 NATURAL HABITAT

8 2 WELCOME TO L’HOTEL REAL LIVING

Worn Store co-founders Lia-Belle and Lotte embrace a mindful approach to style and outdoor living in their Northern NSW home

Inside an enchanting hotel suite, we showcase the opulent dinnerware and vintage crockery that will turn your next soiree into a lavish affair

7 0 COUNTRY REVIVAL

9 1 TRENDS

An abandoned property is transformed into a sustainable family home with the use of reclaimed materials and recycled furniture

Just in time for entertaining season, let this assortment of mix-and-match servingware inspire your next brunch or high tea setting

Go green with natural formulas and jade hues

2 6 LOOKBOOKS Whet your appetite with these cookbooks and candid tales by world-renowned chefs

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When the Sydney home they built didn’t meet their needs, this couple decided to redesign it

9 8 THE PATTERN PLAYBOOK Decorating with pattern doesn’t have to look OTT. In fact, this harmonious home proves you can use multiple motifs in subtle ways

112 K&B UPDATES Buys for your kitchen, bathroom and laundry

114 MONEY MOVES TO MAKE Having trouble applying for a loan? These mistakes could be hurting your credit rating

E AT 13 0 SIMPLE PLEASURES Vibrant and full of flavour, these fresh salads are so good your guests will want the recipes

TR AV E L 13 8 IN THE MOOD FOR HONG KONG

OUTSIDE

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118 IN FULL BLOOM Myra Perez of My Violet shows us her new studio and shares her top floral styling tips

12 2 WHAT’S YOUR STAYCATION STYLE?

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Turn your alfresco area into a chic destination with our edit of resort-inspired outdoor decor

We share some of our fave places to explore, eat and stay when visiting this inimitable city

EV E RY M O N TH 7 8 80

WELCOME Bauer Media Privacy Notice SUBSCRIBE to real living to receive a copy of our book Near The Beach

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hello

WE’RE NEARING THE end of the year and I’m all abuzz with excitement. The weather is warming up, at work we’re planning our 2020 content and at home I’m preparing for the entertaining season. I love hosting people at my place.

Whether it’s for a simple brunch or a casual dinner, there’s something so satisfying about setting a beautiful table.

To help you organise your own get-togethers, we’ve created some beautiful stories in this issue. On p82 we show how easy it is to combine your old mismatched dinnerware and glassware with new buys – perhaps you’ve had some breakages over the years, you want to start using the heirloom set your Nanna gave you, or you’ve uncovered some great vintage treasures at an op-shop. Whatever they are, throw in a few brand new pieces and you’ve created your own custom table setting.

No table is complete without flowers, I say, and this issue we interviewed florist Myra Perez from My Violet about the best blooms to use for all occasions (p118).

And when it comes to food, salads are always the quickest option, and the delicious recipes we feature in our eat section (p129) would work for brunch, lunch or dinner.

The secret to entertaining is to make sure everyone has a great time – including yourself – so keep it simple and you can’t go wrong. Speaking of making yourself happy, instead of slaving away in the kitchen, make it a fun place to be by livening things up with colour. Flip to p12 to shop everything from toasters to tea towels in a rainbow palette.

Bring on the brightness at your place. I dare you!

Lounging around Blue the Boston Terrier looks very cosy on this sofa! To see more of this cool home, check out p36.

follow me on instagram @ellelovelock

photography maree homer (elle); birgitta wolfgang bjørnvad/sisters agency (house)

This month I’m looking forward to…

1 Decorating with fancy candles. These beeswax Twistie candlesticks can be lit, but they’re so sculptural I think I’d leave them as is. $77 each, The-raconteur.com

Serving fresh fruit salads in pretty glass bowls like this one.

Fleurette beaded bowl, $9.95, Provincialhomeliving.com.au

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3 Hanging out in my new Hybernate PJs. They’re chic enough to duck to the shops in! Long-sleeved tee in Optic White, $69, and Harem pants in Grey, $99, Hybernate.com

Playing my fave tunes really LOUD! Symfonisk WiFi bookshelf speaker in White, $149, Ikea.com.au

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5 Keeping hydrated by remembering to refill my water carafe. Tom Dixon ‘Tank’ decanter in Black, $250, Davidjones.com

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

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Editor Elle Lovelock Creative director Sandy Dao Deputy editor Karlie Verkerk

art & style

content

Art directors Andrea Healy, Ann Do Market editor Natalie Johnson Market assistant Lisa Burden Art production Matus Kundrat

Content director Stephanie Hope Senior features editor Lindyl Crabb Senior copy editor Kate Hassett Copy/production editor Tamarah Pienaar

thanks to Sophie Wilson Homes group coordinator Sara Sleeman ssleeman@bauer-media.com.au; (02) 9282 8456

production Title controller & production planner Advertising controller

Sally Jefferys Dominic Roy

advertising Head of brands Homes commercial manager Homes brand manager Brand executive Advertising production manager NSW director of sales Sales director Vic, SA, WA Victorian head of direct sales Queensland head of sales Creative director NEW ZEALAND

Anna Mistilis (02) 9282 8111 Rhonda Maunder (02) 9282 8687 Kimberly Anderson (02) 9338 6103 Jennifer Burke (02) 9288 9145 Kate Orsborn (02) 9283 8364 Karen Holmes (02) 9282 8733 Jaclyn Clements (03) 9823 6341 Will Jamison (03) 9823 6301 Judy Taylor (07) 3101 6636 Clare Catt (02) 8116 9341 Enquiries +61 2 9282 8505

marketing, research & circulation Head of retail & circulation Circulation manager Marketing director Senior marketing manager Brand manager Subscriptions campaign manager Research director Senior research & insights analyst General manager, subscriptions & E-commerce All marketing enquiries

Andrew Cohn Nicole Pearson (02) 8268 4409 Louise Cankett (02) 9282 8730 Jillian Hogan (02) 9282 8843 Sarah Webster (02) 8268 4436 Jesvin Vincent (02) 9282 8696 Casey Greig (02) 8268 6290 Ania Falenciak (02) 9282 8817 Sean McLintock homes@bauer-media.com.au

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Brendon Hill Andrew Stedwell Paul Weaving Sarah-Belle Murphy Shane Sutton Paul Gardiner Jane Waterhouse Georgina Bromfield

Letters to: real living, Reply Paid 5252, Sydney, NSW 2000.

Printed by Ovato, 31-37 Heathcote Rd, Moorebank, NSW, 2170. Published by Bauer Media Pty Limited (ACN 053 273 546), 54-58 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8000. The trade mark real living is the property of Bauer Consumer Media Limited and is used under licence. Distributed by Network Services, 54 Park Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, (02) 9282 8777. *Recommended price, real living. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent from the copyright holders. Bauer Media Pty Limited does not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, freelance material submitted for publication. Allow several weeks for acceptance or return. © 2019 Bauer Media Pty Limited. All rights reserved. ISSN 1833-0398 Subscription sales and inquiries

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real living magazine is published by Bauer Media Pty Limited BAUER MEDIA PRIVACY NOTICE This issue of real living magazine, published by Bauer Media Limited (Bauer Media), may contain offers, competitions or surveys that require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to enter or take part in them (Reader Offer). If you provide information about yourself to Bauer Media, Bauer Media will use this information to provide you with the products or services you have requested, and may supply your information to contractors that help Bauer Media to do this. Bauer Media will also use your information to inform you of other Bauer Media publications, products, services and events.

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Rethink TV

Designed by Bouroullec and powered by Samsung QLED technology, The Serif is both stylish in design and stunning in Χ̈ ϩЇθ αЇ ̷̈ϩцↇ Ǯ̈ϩ ̈ϩϑ ̈ ̈ Ã≣ϑ Χ ʒ Χθ ѣ̷ ⅅ Ɵ Ɗ θ̈˙ ɵ Їϩ̈˙Ї̷​̷ц ̈ ϩ θ ϩ ϑ ̈ ϩ ц Їθ Χ θϑ ̷ ϑϩц̷ ʒ ̈ ϩ θ̈ θ ʒ θↇ Transform the blank screen with Ambient Mode using The Serif exclusive Bouroullec palette. And with a detachable metal Ѥ θ ϑϩ ʒ ʒ θ ̈ Їϑ †‣‗ই ʒ ϑ̈ ⅅ ц Ї и Э ϩ ˙θ ʒ ϩ Χ̷ ц Їθ ƟǤ ци θ ̈ ц Їθ ̷̈Ӭ ϑΧ ↇ

samsung.com/au/theserif

Taste the rainbow Just like eating a variety of colourful fruit and vegies is good for your health, incorporating an assortment of bright decor, tableware and small appliances into your kitchen can uplift the space – and your mood.

Turn the page to enter our technicolour supermarket. A

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SHELF SERVICE creative direction sandy dao photography dave wheeler interior styling lisa burden & natalie johnson fashion styling gemma keil

If your kitchen could do with a bit of spicing up and a redesign isn’t on the cards, just add pretty appliances and colourful decor buys. Let’s go shopping! @reallivingmag

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CHECK OUT CHIC OPPOSITE Shelves, Shop for Shops, used throughout. Base cabinets (90cm), $154 each, Raw board modern cabinet doors (45cm), $27.77 each, and Vic Ash benchtop, $426, Kaboodle, used throughout. Laminated kitchen kickboard in Gold Finish, $55, Handles and More, used throughout. Jolie paint in Pure White (on walls), 55.50 for 946ml, Jolie Home, used throughout. Texline ‘Essence’ flooring in Confetti Beige, $35 per sq m, Gerflor, used throughout. ON TOP SHELF FROM LEFT Provincial reverse tea towels in Corn, $9.95 each, Provincial Home Living. Measure container in Blue, $25, Hay. Sorrento wine spritzes, Batch & Co. Tear vases in Yellow, $58 each, Mud Australia. ON SECOND SHELF Zafferano ‘Veneziano’ tumblers in Amber, $234.50 for 6, Casa e Cucina. Provincial reverse tea towels in Sage, $9.95 each, Provincial Home Living. Cordials, Katie Swift Cordials. Classic striped tea towels in Claret Red, $31 for 4, Williams Sonoma. ON THIRD SHELF Wine, Minimum Wines.

Bondi wine spritzes, Batch & Co. Classic striped tea towels in Bright Blue, $31 for 4, Williams Sonoma. ON FOURTH SHELF Teacups in Orange, $95 each, Mud Australia. ON BOTTOM SHELF Glasses in Pink, $55 for 4 small, Studio Tetatet. Carafes in Blossom, $79 each for small, Mud Australia. Zafferano ‘Balloton’ tumblers in Apple Green, $119 for 6, Casa e Cucina. ON CABINET Assorted food, Simon Johnson. OYOY ‘Toppu’ tray in Caramel/Rose, $115, Leo & Bella. ON FLOOR Aykasa folding crates in Baby Pink and Orange, from $30.95 for medium, Leo & Bella. MODEL WEARS Blazer, $330, Bec + Bridge. Sandals, $280, Ancient Greek Sandals. Earrings, $139, Reliquia. XL shopper bag, $15, Hay. THIS PAGE ON TOP SHELF ’50s retro style electric kettle in Red, $189, Smeg. Parson spaghetti jars, $19.95 each, Provincial Home Living. All other items, as before. ON SECOND SHELF Goblets in Indigo, $69 for 4 large, Maison Balzac. ’50s retro style two-slice toaster in Pink, $209, Smeg. All other items, as before. ON THIRD SHELF Glass jars in Brass, $53, Zakkia. Colour Pop stackable mugs, $14 each, West Elm. All other items, as before. ON FOURTH SHELF Tea towels, as before. Nimes linen tablecloths in Rust, $139.95 each, Linen House. ON BOTTOM SHELF Tumblers, as before. ON CABINET Mini milk bottles, $2.95, Provincial Home Living. Speckle canisters in Pink, $47 each, Zakkia. ’50s retro style citrus juicer in Pastel Green, $199, Smeg. Assorted food and tray, as before. ON FLOOR Aykasa folding crates in Baby Pink, Orange, Salmon, Orchid and Mint, from $30.95 for medium, Leo & Bella. A

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express lane decorating ideas Upgrading your everyday decor is an affordable and space-savvy way to makeover your kitchen.

Start with new tea towels, linens and statement glassware, and mix up your white dinner set with colourful bowls and plates. And when it’s time to replace your old stainless steel toaster and kettle, swap them for matching pastel designs.

SHOP IT LIKE IT’S HOT ON TOP SHELF Nimes linen tablecloths in Sea Foam, $139.95 each, Linen House. Zafferano ‘Veneziano’ carafes in Red, $130 each, Casa e Cucina. Ojo storage vessels, $38 each, Home by Harlequin. Champagne flutes in Amber, $79 for 2, Maison Balzac. Lago bowls in Dusk, $24.95 for 3, Salt&Pepper. All other items, as before. ON SECOND SHELF Noodle bowls in Red, $57 each for small, Mud Australia.

J’ai Soif carafes in Azure, $79 each (sold with tumblers shown separately), Maison Balzac. Kali side plates in Peppermint, $59 for 4, and dinner plates, $79 for 4, Aura Home. Noodle bowls in Wasabi, $47 each, Mud Australia. All other items, as before.

ON THIRD SHELF Pincho bowls in Pink, $89.95 each, Salt&Pepper. Alvar Aalto vases in Sea Blue, $249 each, Iittala.

Zafferano ‘Bei’ tumblers in Yellow, $119 for 6, Casa e Cucina.

All other items, as before. ON BOTTOM SHELF Glass plates in Azure, $89 for 2, Maison Balzac. Mugs in Yellow, $47 each, Mud Australia. Kali side plates in Coral, $14.95 each, and dinner plates in Coral, $19.95 each, Aura Home. All other items, as before.

ON ROUND SHELVES Cordials and wine, as before. MODEL WEARS Jacket, $950, Nanushka. Top, $99, and pants, $69.95, Zara. Scarf, $222.55, Bess. Heels, $199.95, Tony Bianco.

Basket, Bethel Shopfitting World, customised with White Knight ‘Squirts’ spray paint in Gloss Pink, $8.40, Bunnings. A

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@reallivingmag

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hair & make-up claire thomson | photography assistant alistair woods styling assistants helen burden; krystel robinson; lynn johnson; nate vella | set build jake smyth

SPECIAL THANKS... All fresh produce was kindly supplied by Maloneys Grocer. Maloneys has three store locations around Sydney, and online shopping and delivery is available locally. Check out the website for a full list of eligible suburbs. Maloneysgrocer.com.au R

MARKET REFRESH Supermarket trolley (60L), Bethel Shopfitting World, customised with Dulux ‘Duramax’ gloss spray paint in Fish Pond, $12.88, Bunnings.

Bag, wine spritz and milk bottle, as before. OPPOSITE Trolley, as before. ON TOP, SECOND AND THIRD SHELVES All items, as before. ON FOURTH SHELF Espresso cups in Red, $27 each, Mud Australia. All other items, as before. ON BOTTOM SHELF All items, as before. ON ROUND SHELVES Artisan stand mixers in Pink and Ice, $949 each, KitchenAid. ’50s retro style blender in Pink, $299, Smeg. All other appliances, as before. MODEL ON LEFT WEARS Jacket, $350, shirt, $295, and skirt, $270, Acler. Sandals, as before. Respiro bag, $389, and earrings, $159, Valet Studio. MODEL ON RIGHT WEARS Jumpsuit, $799, Rebecca Vallance. Sneakers, $180, Veja. Falke socks, $21, The Sock Emporium. Earrings, $139, Reliquia. R

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loving staff pick

COMING IN HOT KARLIE VERKERK Deputy editor

TOP THREE

OZ Design’s new summer collections are giving us serious #vacayvibes with relaxed colour palettes, lots of rattan and decor that’s made for entertaining.

Ozdesignfurniture.com.au

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Tempest 3.5-seater sofa in Natural, $1899, OZ Design Furniture.

aperitivo hour Gin is certainly the tipple of the moment – here are three to try.

1 Smooth citrus notes The Botanist Islay dry gin, $85.

2 Pre-mixed Bombay Sapphire ‘Ready to Drink’ gin & tonic, $26 for 4. 3 Vibrant & herbal Ableforth’s ‘Bathtub’ gin, $64.99.

real living loves

BEST TRESSED Show your locks some love with Ayu’s Ceremony oil, $60. Run a few drops through your hair to nourish and impart the delicate scent of ylang ylang, magnolia and jasmine. Theayu.com.au

real living loves

fave finds

text lindyl crabb | photography carli wilson (nerida hansen fabrics); daphne nguyen (the ayu) *conversion correct at time of print

A whole bunch of things we love... sneak peek

ON THE RISE

new

staff pick

ELLE LOVELOCK Editor

If there’s one artist you start following on Instagram today, make it Anna Beam. We’re big fans of her ceramics and playful textile prints. Little Arch vase, about $84*; Annabeam.com

AFFORDABLE SCULPTURE

water feature Featuring solid brass fittings and available in three custom Pantone colourways, No King ‘Luxe’ hoses are like statement tapware for your home’s exterior. From $180 including wall hook. Lepaar.com

nostalgic fabrics Remember the Gumnut Babies? Well, those iconic book characters have been reimagined in an exclusive May Gibbs x Nerida Hansen Fabrics collection. Available in three cotton varieties, the delightful fabrics would look great as tablecloths, kids’ curtains or bedspreads. Shopneridahansen.com A

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loving staff pick

new address Ethical fashion label Kowtow has set its sights on sustainable interiors with the opening of a new store in Auckland. The space was designed using New Zealand-grown wood, eco-friendly fabrics and locally made furniture.

Kowtowclothing.com

SANDY DAO Creative director

staff pick

sneak peek new

LINDYL CRABB Senior features editor

STREET STYLE Virgil Abloh’s much-anticipated collab with Ikea hits stores this November. The 15-piece collection, which includes this Markerad chair, $179, and mirror, $299, puts a surreal spin on Scandi design and we predict it’s going to fly off the shelves. Ikea.com.au

fave finds ... and some more!

You won’t find a list of hidden harmful chemicals in Leif beauty products.

Instead, they’re made using Australian botanicals such as caviar lime fruit, the key ingredient in the new Caviar Lime body scrub, $39. Leifproducts.com

HANDMADE DESIGNS

staff pick

THE RIGHT DIRECTION

Away has introduced two new bags to its line-up of luggage.

No matter where your day takes you, The Latitude and The Longitude leather totes are spacious enough to handle the load and make it look effortless! $325 each; Awaytravel.com/au

STEPHANIE HOPE Content director

real living loves

petite feet Not too girly and not too grown-up, Mini Maria sandals are just right for growing feet! Created by footwear designer Maria Farro, the new kids’ collection is made from soft, supple leather by local artisans in Crete – just like her existing women’s range. $79 a pair; Mariafarro.com @reallivingmag

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GET CRACKING

How do you have your eggs? We like ours served in a Mud Australia egg cup. The shape is a refined twist on a classic design. From $44; Mudaustralia.com R

photography kristina soljo (leif products) | styling sandy dao (leif products)

native nurture

Australia’s Online Destination for Designer Furniture

Affordable Design for the Modern Home Authentic Designs | 10 Year Warranty Free Fabric Swatches | 14 Day Easy Returns | Zip Pay Available

castlery.com.au 1300 345 868

loving CHECKING OUT OF A HOTEL can be bittersweet. It often signals the end of a holiday, yet there’s something comforting about going home.

That’s not the case at Vipp Chimney House, a private guesthouse you won’t want to leave. The former water-pumping station is now “a cutting-edge contemporary home” with two bedrooms, 8.5-metre high ceilings, a skylight and steel staircase that echoes the industrial scheme. Designed by Danish architect David Thulstrup, the house showcases Vipp fixtures and furniture so guests can experience them in a curated space. “I was encouraged to make it edgy,” David says of the bold details. “And I wanted people to feel at home.” R

VIPP CHIMNEY HOUSE

space crush

Vipp Hotel’s latest outpost is a modern home away from home in a heritage building Water sign Built in 1902 near a harbour in North Copenhagen, the new hotel is named after its 35-metre chimney (pictured).

Test kitchen “Vipp Hotel is our take on haute couture,” says Vipp CEO Kasper Egelund. The modular kitchen is equipped with the brand’s products; the fridge is stocked with Champagne.

shop it Gullklocka cushion cover in Pink, $17.99, Ikea. @reallivingmag

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Vipp ‘521’ table lamp in Black, $910, Cult.

Jamie McLellan ‘Elementary’ stool in Red/ Orange, $475, Open Room.

Bespoke beauty Rendered brick walls evoke the building’s heritage and cocoon the open-plan living spaces, while pastel rugs and curated artworks add comfort. David custom-designed the terrazzo floors, tables, sideboards, pendants and bedheads.

text lindyl crabb | photography courtesy of vipp

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

loving

beauty spot

TOP SHELF Smith & Cult Nail Polish in Darjeeling Darling, $32, Sephora. Hermetica Cedarise EDP, $299 for 100ml, Libertine Parfumerie. Penhaligon’s English Fern EDT, $229 for 100ml, Libertine Parfumerie. Dior Backstage Pros Fix-It Colour Corrector in Green, $62, David Jones. Sisley Gentle Eye And Lip Make-Up Remover, $90. La Mer The Treatment Lotion, $120. Guerlain Metallic To Glitter Liquid Eyeliner in Khaki, $58, David Jones. Santa Maria Novella Santa Maria Herb Water, $48, Libertine Parfumerie. Tom Ford Sole Di Positano Acqua EDP, $185 for 50ml, Myer. MIDDLE SHELF Innisfree Green Tea Seed Eye & Face Ball, $30. Kat Burki Goji Essence, $260, Mecca. Aerin Éclat de Vert EDP, $320 for 50ml. Anni Lu Bling Stud earrings in Posy Green, about $65* each. Gucci Mémoire d’une Odeur EDP, $180 for 100ml, Myer. MAC Eyeshadow in Humid, $33. Dior Backstage Contour Brush No.15, $62, David Jones. Oribe Deep Treatment Masque, $89, Adore Beauty. Anni Lu Baroque Pearl Bling Earrings in Posy Green, about $434*. Officine Universelle Buly Opiat Dentaire Mint Coriander Cucumber Toothpaste, $34, Mecca. Diptyque Figuier Verte Candle, $119 for 300g, Mecca. BOTTOM SHELF Comme des Garçons Amazingreen EDP, $139 for 50ml, Mecca. Anni Lu Brigitte Hoops in Gold, about $131*. Innisfree Green Tea Seed Skin toner, $30. Ere Perez Quandong Green Booster Serum, $40. Skin Gym Mini Eye Roller, $35, Sephora. Tata Harper Hyaluronic Gel Moisturiser, $172, Sephora. Anni Lu Love Seeks Pendant in Gold, about $98*. Jimmy Choo Floral EDT, $138 for 90ml, David Jones. Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner in Vivid Jade, $34, Mecca. Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturiser, $81 for 50ml, Sephora. Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Balm, $40 for 120ml. La Mer The Treatment Lotion Hydrating Mask, $190 for 6, David Jones. Maison Balzac Pomponette Bowl in Clear, $79. ON WALL Cole & Son ‘Leopard Walk’ wallpaper in Olive & White, $220 per 10m roll, Wallpaper Trader. R @reallivingmag

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photography kristina soljo | styling sandy dao *conversion correct at time of print

This month, vivid green pigments and natural ingredients are on our minds

LOVE YOUR LAUNDRY Fisher & Paykel’s ActiveIntelligence™ technology optimises your wash by adjusting the cycle time and dispensing just the right amount of liquid detergent to suit each load. For quality fabric care, we recommend OMO ultimate providing amazing stain removal without the need for pre-treaters. Take the guesswork out of washing with Fisher & Paykel and OMO.

fisherpaykel.com

loving

lookbooks Tantalising tomes to take your culinary skills to masterful new heights A Work in Progress: A Journal by René Redzepi A candid, inspirational and refreshingly humorous account of what happens when the world’s most celebrated chef loses his creative spark at the height of NOMA’s success. Phaidon, $39.95. Super Sourdough by James Morton For the uninitiated, sourdough can feel overwhelming, but Morton’s book demystifies the science-like approach to baking this delicate loaf, helping home bakers rise to the occasion. Hardie Grant, $39.99. Copenhagen Cult Recipes by Christine Rudolph and Susie Theodorou Satisfy your inner Scandi with this impressive collection of modern and traditional dishes from some of Copenhagen’s favourite chefs. Murdoch Books, $49.99. Venetian Republic by Nino Zoccali Keep your wanderlust at bay by tracing the enduring culinary legacy of the Venetian Republic across the Adriatic and beyond. Murdoch Books, $49.99. Just George by George Calombaris Whether you’re time poor or hungry for a challenge, the recipes and anecdotes found within these pages gives every type of cook the tools to create delicious and inspired meals any day of the week. Hardie Grant, $50. The Whole Fish by Josh Niland Praised as having reinvented the way chefs around the world approach seafood, Niland’s scale-to-tail philosophy will change the way you treat your next fish market haul. Hardie Grant, $55. R @reallivingmag

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text kate hassett | photography kristina soljo | styling ann do

Cook’s companions Mini glass butter dish, $7.50, My Brother Albert.

Garlic grater, for similar, try Scullery essentials mini grater, $3.99, House.

Stripe linen napkin, $40 for 4, In Bed. Pebble bowl in Dust, $38 for small, Mud Australia. Marlux pepper mill in Dark Wood (10cm), $39.37, QCC.

refresh H A R V E Y

N O R M A N

P R E S E N T S

RELAX

RESET

Set the mood for summer with a soothing palette of blues, neutrals and natural textures that invite you to unwind and enjoy the warm weather of the season.

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

online | mobile | in store

summer

outdoor collection 2019

FRONT ‘CESANO’ 4-PIECE MODULAR LOUNGE SETTING $2199; ‘BELIZE’ SQUARE CUSHION $39.95; ‘C AITLIN’ SQUARE AND RECTANGULAR CUSHION $29.95; PALM TREE SQUARE CUSHION IN BLUE AND GREEN $29.95EA; ‘HALI’ SQUARE SC ATTER CUSHION IN TEAL AND PRINCESS BLUE $19.95EA; ‘MOSAIC’ 19249-369 RUG (240 x 340CM) $449.

LEFT ‘MUNICH’ 6-PIECE BENCH/CHAIR DINING SETTING $2999; ‘APOLLO’ C ANTILEVER UMBRELLA (300 x 400CM) IN BLACK $1199, UMBRELLA BASE $119; NAUTIC STRIPE SQUARE CUSHION IN NAVY $29.95EA; ‘NATURA’ 502 EG3D RUG (240 x 340CM) $749.

RIGHT ‘RODEO’ ROPE DINING CHAIR $199EA; ‘C AITLIN’ RECTANGULAR CUSHION $29.95EA ‘HALI’ SQUARE SC ATTER CUSHION IN PRINCESS BLUE AND TEAL $19.95EA; PALM TREE SQUARE CUSHION IN BLUE $29.95; NAUTIC STRIPE RECTANGULAR CUSHION IN BLUE $29.95.

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summer

outdoor collection 2019

HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

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summer

outdoor collection 2019

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HARVEYNORMAN.COM.AU

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Room for more Abundant in sunlight with beautiful linens and lots of seating for guests, this dining space hints at the homeowners’ love of entertaining.

Turn to see the rest of the apartment. A

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Open invite This open-plan kitchen, living and dining space was once a series of poorly lit rooms.

A West Elm table sits beneath the new skylight, with a cane bench custom designed to match the Josef Hoffman cane chairs and a Wegner ‘Wishbone’ chair at the head of the table. Artworks by Olle Eksell, Blundlund and Joe Cruz are on display. Game changer Born in Sweden to Chilean parents, homeowner Babba C Rivera (opposite) draws on a range of styles and influences in her decor. A

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homes

bright heights photography birgitta wolfgang bjørnvad/sisters agency

How a young power couple traded in the mayhem of Manhattan for a Brooklyn brownstone and reinvigorated it with colourful Scandi style real living

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“BROOKLYN HEIGHTS REMINDS ME of Djurgården in central Stockholm. It has the same kind of houses with two or three flats inside; charming and cosy,” says Swedish native Babba C Rivera of the leafy neighbourhood she and her husband Carl now call home. It’s a serendipitous fit for the pair who have both made it onto Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. A marketing mogul, Babba built her high-profile career working with brands like Uber and Away luggage. But the high-rise buildings of New York City didn’t have the creative space she dreamed of, so in 2018 the couple bought this top floor brownstone apartment.

LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU A natural host, Babba recalls how her mother’s home always had room for unexpected arrivals, “and we always shared”. In order to turn that memory into a modern abode, architect Aron Heinemann reconfigured the separate kitchen and living room into one communal space.

“Now we can cook and still be with our guests!” Custom-built furniture made by Benjamin Schleif, including a long rattan bench for the 12-seater dining table, ensures this space feels cohesive yet lived in and every spare inch is maximised. One thing you won’t find here is a TV. Instead, Carl installed a projector and a pull-down canvas screen so when the dinner plates are cleared away, guests can watch movies in style.

SCANDI SPIN The living spaces weren’t the only thing to get a makeover. Skylights installed in every room take advantage of the home’s penthouse position and provide direct access to natural light. The white walls, new oak Herringbone floors and relaxed decor are undeniably Scandinavian-inspired, but the aesthetic isn’t to be confused with minimalism. Babba and Carl love colour, and there’s lots of it. The pair eschewed the classic choice of white kitchen cabinets for a fresh green hue, chose furniture in shades of yellow and teal for the living area, and regularly rotate their collection of art to keep it interesting.

THE SUITE LIFE It’s the finer details that create a sense of comfort and luxury, which makes all the difference when your career involves frequent travel and hotel stays. “I love to come home and jump into a soft bathrobe,” says Babba. “And my favourite thing to do in the morning is take a long shower and wrap myself in a giant Lexington bath sheet.” Another of her treasured luxuries is her walk-in closet, which is bursting with statement pieces and colours. Carl connected her wardrobe to their home’s sound system, so Babba can put on a playlist while she gets dressed. “It gives me energy for the day!” R Sunny disposition Blue the Boston Terrier nestles among the Lexington Company cushions and throws in the living area. A West Elm coffee table is anchored by a vintage ceiling lamp, linen day bed from Anthropologie and velvet sofa from Tictail, an online shopping site founded by Carl.

homes

who lives here?

Babba C Rivera, founder of brand marketing agency By.Babba and co-founder of women’s network HER USA, with her husband Carl W Rivera, general manager of Shopify, and Blue the Boston Terrier.

Bybabba.com | @babba A

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Salad days The new kitchen cabinets painted in Great Barrington Green are a bold choice, but the Spectrum Quartz benches and classic door panels keep the look timeless. Bold and beautiful Babba wanted to create a ďŹ ve-star hotel feeling in her bathroom (opposite, left). White subway tiles and black mosaic oor tiles make a statement, while built-in shelves provide storage without taking up space. Stylish starters The table is set with Lexington Company linens, ceramics by Eva Gernandt and plates from By Mutti (opposite, centre). Family favourite Babba wears a striped Lexington Company shirt, while Blue gets comfy on cushions from the same brand (opposite, right).

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homes

easy ways to upgrade your home, hotel-style

1

Invest in beautiful bedding, towels and table linens to recreate the freshly laundered feel that hotel textiles have.

A fluffy bathrobe is the finishing touch.

2

Take inspiration from the mini samples you find in hotel rooms and display matching bathroom products in chic packaging on an open shelf or beside your basin.

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You know what’s better than a hotel mini bar? Your own drinks cart stocked with your favourite glassware, cocktail mixers and a stylish ice bucket! A

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text winta mebrathi | additional text lindyl crabb

Heart and soul Two built-in closets border a mirror and working fireplace in the master bedroom.

The Kalmar bed is from Anthropologie, the bedding is Lexington Company and the sconce is from Rejuvenation. Beautiful finds include a rug from eBay and vintage chandelier. Dress ups Benjamin Schleif designed Babba’s walk-in wardrobe (opposite), which she says makes her feel like a fiveyear-old princess. “I prefer to buy fashion that feels fun and has a ‘wow’ feel,” she adds.

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homes style tip Neatly arrange a few of your favourite fashion accessories on an open shelf and you’ve got a sartorial (and practical) display A

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Sky’s the limit From the rooftop terrace, Babba reflects on her move to Brooklyn. “When I come back from Manhattan and walk across the bridge, I relax.” Still, her sights are set on the future. “We love our home, but the idea of owning an entire brownstone house is so exciting,” she says. Watch this space.

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shop it! Recreate Babba’s colourful approach to Scandi style 8 1

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1 Blanc chandelier, $1679, Interiors Online. 2 Miriano glass trinket box with lid, $9.95, French Knot. 3 Architectmade bird in Smoked Oak, $80 for small, Space.

4 Home Republic ‘Byron’ throw in Clay, $89.99, Adairs. 5 French linen quilt cover set in Grey, $290 for queen, The Cover Collective. 6 Sefina cushion in Dusty Pink, $110, Coco Republic. 7 Annika scatter cushion in Dash Dot, $150, Coco Republic. 8 Apollo wall light in Black Nickel, $149, Brosa. 9 Butterfly sugar bowl/ginger jar with seal, $18.95, French Knot. 10 Jeanne 3-seater sofa in Deep Teal Velvet, $1099, Castlery. 11 Rug Culture ‘Dalibor’ oriental rug in Red (2.25m x 1.55m), $209.95, Zanui.

12 Saxon Carver chair in Black, $349, Provincial Home Living. 13 Jnana vase (left), $49, and Recline vase, $66, Jones & Co. 14 Fancy rug in Lime, $1399 for medium, Blu Dot. 15 Marset ‘Bicoca’ table lamps in Pale Pink, Yellow and Light Blue, $265 each, Finnish Design Shop. 16 Monroe daybed in Yellow Gold Mystere Velvet, $899, Brosa. 17 Astor I framed art print, $225 for small, Karibou Art Co. 18 Sometimes I Always framed art print by Nathan Johnson, $290 for medium, Blacklist. 19 Scholten & Baijings ‘Colour’ vase in Green, $200 for extra large, Hay. Colours and finishes FROM LEFT Peppermint Grove hexagon mosaic tiles in Black, $85 per sq m, Tile Cloud. Tahiti voile snow curtain, from $33, Blinds Online. Quick-Step ‘Intenso’ flooring in Granola Oak Extra Matt, $124.85 per sq m, Choices Flooring. Notviken storage door in Grey Green (60cm x 64cm), $25, Ikea. real living

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art movement

text & photography monica spezia/living inside

Have you ever dreamed of escaping the big smoke and moving to a villa in the Italian countryside? Well, that’s exactly what this design-loving entrepreneur did

homes

Time warp An art wall in the living room juxtaposes 19th century bronze sculptures with Tinkerbell graffiti by Brazilian artist Ozi and a Moooi ‘Rabbit’ lamp. “I always choose art that touches my heart.

I need to have a connection,” says homeowner Doris Sochaczewski.

This Vittorio Nobili ‘Medea’ chair is her favourite furniture piece. A

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NOT EVEN GOOGLE MAPS knows where Doris Sochaczewski’s home is. Surrounded by valleys and olive trees, her villa near the historic Italian town of Todi is best located with old-fashioned directions. “That’s exactly why I decided to live here!” Doris says with a laugh. A remote country property might feel isolating for some, but for Doris, who founded the Sao Paolo design store Coisas da Doris, it’s liberating. “I lived to work,” she says of her career. “I was leading a life which no longer fit me. Sure, I had a good job. But I wanted to move away from big cities and find a more domestic dimension.”

SOUL SEARCH Doris bestowed her business to one of her daughters and left Brazil for Europe. She spent two years in Umbria before finding this shepherd’s farmstead. “I’ve always been radical when it comes to making decisions,” she admits. It needed work, but the local stone masonry and untouched grounds spoke to her and she appreciates “what it had been and what it could become”. Doris took on an eight-month restoration, which involved modifying the original blueprint to suit a more modern lifestyle and painting everything white, so she could decorate using colour “without restriction”. At last she says, “here in the Umbrian countryside, my stress is gone. I live as I always wanted to.”

WORK OF ART While the stone walls nod to the property’s traditional roots, there’s nothing provincial about the decor.

“I’m passionate about Italian design and wanted pieces by B&B Italia, Zanotta and Gervasoni,” says Doris. Her charisma fills every room with warmth – so too does her collection of vintage furniture from the ’50s and ’70s, and contemporary art which is displayed against the all-white walls and floors, much like a gallery. “The art is the only thing I brought with me from Brazil when I moved,” she says. “I wanted my Italian story to start from scratch. I wanted a new point of view.” R

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homes

who lives here?

additional text lindyl crabb

Doris Sochaczewski, a producer, buyer and the founder of Brazilian design store Coisas da Doris, with Tartufo her Border Collie and Barolo her cat. @doris_sochaczewski A

Served fresh Designed with white walls, Carrara marble surfaces and no doors, the kitchen flows into the open living space. Personal style “The house reflects who I am – simple, with an exquisite touch. Never ordinary!” says Doris, pictured sitting on a Fritz Hansen ‘Ro’ chair by Jaime Hayon (opposite, left). Spot light The eye is drawn to a Vera Martins artwork and vintage lamp (opposite, right). real living

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Drama class A pink velvet curtain separates Doris’s bathroom from her bedroom. Here, the decor is more refined and feminine than the rest of the house. The chic pendant lamp is by product designer Lee Broom. The elaborate mirror and grey armchair are vintage. Favourite things Doris filled her bedroom (right) with pieces by her most-loved design brands, including the Zanotta ‘Talamo’ bed and white Gervasoni ‘Log’ side table. The chest of drawers is from Cargo & Hightech and the photographic print above her bed is by Valentino Fialdini. A

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Breathing space Although her style is buzzing with energy, Doris leaves room between each element and doesn’t add too many layers, which gives the living area a sophisticated ease. Suspended in the air, a reproduction Calder mobile evokes a similar feeling. The white TOR coffee table is by Lambie & Van Hengel; the black Bowl table is by Mater. Make light work The sculptural wall lamp (top left) is by Valentino Fialdini. Eye for detail Doris can’t resist collecting decorative pieces, like this Fornasetti vase (bottom left). Life is beautiful Located in Umbria, which is known as the green heart of Italy, the villa has a swimming pool, outdoor entertaining area and garden (opposite), which Doris rejuvenated after moving in. A @reallivingmag

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style tip Painting interior doors and frames black instantly gives country-style homes a dose of contemporary sophistication A

Dark to light Behind the guest bathroom’s black doors is an ebony marble basin, Lee Broom crystal lamp and an ornate mirror from Zara Home. On the wall outside is a Valentino Fialdini artwork. A full house Soft hues set a dreamy tone in this guest room (reflected in a mirror, right) where visitors retreat. “I like having friends over,” Doris says. “They come from around the world. Umbria fascinates foreigners!” The guest bed is from Zanotta with linens by La Fabbrica del Lino. The art is by Valentino Fialdini and the side table is by Gervasoni.

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Life, reclaimed This desk was once a picnic table and the chair is a vintage find. But you won’t find Doris sitting here for long. “I travel much less than before – I go to Brazil twice a year,” she says. “Sometimes I rent out the villa and I visit other places in Italy.”

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shop it! Define your style with unique art and eye-catching decor 7 3

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1 A Model Wearing Orange art print by Horst P. Horst, from $153* unframed, Condé Nast Store. 2 Mer round wall mirror, $389, Shine Mirrors. 3 Canterbury velvet curtains in Warm Cream, from $88, Blinds Online. 4 Glendale pulley task table lamp in Antique Bronze, $324, Pottery Barn. 5 Tea Tree Creek – Yuraygir NP, Australia framed artwork by Todd Clare, $490 for small, Provider Store. 6 Lee Broom clear crystal bulb pendant light in Brushed Brass, $480, Space.

7 Pleat vase in Rose, $119 for extra large, RJ Living. 8 Moooi ‘Egg’ vase, $205 for medium, Space. 9 Vintage linen fringe throw in Clay, $149, Aura Home.

10 Cammy armchair in Dusty Rose Velvet, $439, Castlery. 11 Mateo rustic desk, $324, Pottery Barn. 12 Vintage glove moulds, $350 for pair, Fenton&Fenton.

13 Bestå Burs TV bench in High-Gloss White, $299, Ikea. 14 Snidad rattan basket, $39.99, Ikea. 15 Bismo lacquered bottle vase in Black, $109 for small, LivingStyles. 16 Fornasetti ‘L’ape’ candle, $270 for 300g, Mecca. 17 Orb vessel, $240, Clae Studio. 18 The Print Academy ‘Jacqueline’ scalloped mirror, $399, Temple & Webster. 19 Salone soap dispenser in Clear, $15, Freedom.

Colours and finishes FROM LEFT Smooth Impasto paint in Prussian Green, $148 for 4L, Porter’s Paints. Manhattan bricks in East Hampton, $2.75 each, PGH Bricks & Pavers. Designs Of The Time ‘Atohi’ fabric in YP16016, $325 per m, James Dunlop Textiles. Travertine paint in Marble Mist, $99.95 for 4L, Haymes. real living

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N AT U R A L

H A B I TAT

Sustainable living and a connection to the outdoors are at the heart of this peaceful home in Northern NSW photography lynden foss styling sarah ellison text carli philips

@reallivingmag

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homes

Put it in neutral A restrained colour palette allows the natural beauty of the materials to shine. Texture – in the Worn Store armchairs, coffee tables sourced on the homeowners’ travels, and a Pampa rug – delights the eyes and the touch. Light touch Lotte Barnes and Lia-Belle King (opposite) use furniture and accessories “with meaning” to decorate their home. This process is in keeping with the ethos of their furniture business, Worn Store. A

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homes

Liveable and lovely “The colours and textures of nature play a big role in our decorating palette,” says Lia-Belle. Floor-toceiling picture windows draw the outside in. A leather sofa from Domayne is teamed with comfortable easy chairs in rattan and leather, which tie in tonally with other elements in the room. The Vouch surfboard creates a beachy vibe.

who lives here?

Lia-Belle King and Lotte Barnes, co-founders of lifestyle brand Worn Store, their daughter, Ophelia, 2, and the family dog, Gray.

Wornstore.com.au | @worn.store

AFTER THREE YEARS OF SEARCHING and endless “mental moodboards”, Lia-Belle King and Lotte Barnes discovered this home designed by local architect Alan Mitchell in Ewingsdale NSW. It was love at first sight. Coupled with the surrounding beaches and family-oriented community, the home’s scenic location and design offered a dream scenario for the family.

NATURE AND NURTURE For Lia-Belle and Lotte, the greatest drawcards were the home’s proportions and midcentury features, including walls of glass in every room. “The tranquil and retreat style of living makes you feel so connected all the time,” says Lia-Belle. To make it their own, they painted throughout, planted lavender bushes and undertook a minor renovation to extend the paved outdoor area. Today, that outdoor space is the home’s most frequented spot. It’s tucked under the cantilevered first floor, which allows the family to use it year round and in all weathers. To enhance the feeling of outdoor living, they set up a swing, mini slide and rug for their daughter Ophelia to play on. “It’s such a versatile and practical living space for this climate and small children,” says Lia-Belle.

CONSCIOUS COUPLINGS The polished-concrete flooring has an industrial feel that the couple love. Natural-fibre rugs in the bedroom and living area are a practical touch – improving insulation and acoustics – but elsewhere the floors are left exposed. Decorating with earthy materials and textures such as rattan and timber was important for Lia-Belle and Lotte, whose preference is for organic tones that reflect nature. “As we don’t treat our Worn furniture with chemicals, their colours change too, depending on the season and their exposure to light,” says Lia-Belle. Nothing in the house is jarring; even the assortment of artworks (by friends) tie into the overall scheme.

MAXIMUM MINIMALISM Lia-Belle is the main decisionmaker in regards to decorating, but rather than accumulating more stuff, she regularly shifts furniture around to create new looks. “We don’t consume very much as we consciously live a minimal lifestyle,” she says. eBay and Gumtree are regular go-tos for the couple. And if their search is unsuccessful, they commission something custom-made. “We mostly look within our community of friends and creatives who make their own products before shopping anywhere else,” Lia-Belle explains.

“Every item in our home has a story and meaning behind it.

Nothing has been purchased mindlessly.” R real living

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how to create a calming environment

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Choose furniture and accessories made from natural materials in their raw, undyed state. Think timber stools, rattan chairs and jute rugs.

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2

For a peaceful atmosphere, opt for an organic palette of milky-whites, cream and honey.

Consider artworks in the same hues, too.

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Use windows to connect with the outdoors. If your view isn’t scenic, use linen sheers to embrace the outdoors with a diffused light. A

homes

Softly does it The open-plan area, cocooned in milky-white linen curtains, is a space made for relaxing.

“Our home is our sanctuary,” says Lia-Belle. The neon “Everything for Love” sign was designed by a friend.

Room with a view The large window over the kitchen bench (opposite), often left wide open, is an eyecatching feature, while an Atomic coffee machine, inherited from Lia-Belle’s father, is a sentimental touch.

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style tip By keeping your bedroom minimalistic and clutter-free, you’ll create a more peaceful and relaxing sleeping environment

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homes

Simple pleasures In the dining area, an Ikea dining table is paired with Marcel Breuer ‘Cesca’ chairs.

Inner sanctum Lotte and Lia-Belle’s bedroom (opposite) is an oasis of comfort and calm. The bedlinen is from In Bed, the Stump side table is from Worn Store and the floor lamp is Ikea. An antique Japanese plum sack was bought in Indonesia, where they lived for two years, and is displayed as an artwork on the wall. A

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Soak it up The small but perfectly formed bathroom features a stone egg bath. It’s the ideal spot to wind down after a busy day. Step outside Renovating the outdoor space gave the family more room to move. The Relax chairs, Eclipse stump stool and linen pillows are from Worn Store; the antique Indian tea table is from Island Luxe. Together time Lotte, Lia-Belle and their daughter Ophelia enjoy their indoor-outdoor area year round. A

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Sweet dreams The natural, neutral palette continues into Ophelia’s room, which features a shelf unit that Lotte made for her. The bed, from Leander, is a convertible cot/bed, the bedlinen and canopy are by Numero 74, while the artwork is by Serena Mitnik-Miller.

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1 HK Living ‘Cube’ 4-seater sofa in Vintage Velvet Mustard Yellow, $4995, House of Orange. 2 Tapayan earthenware pot, $290, Worn Store. 3 Kendi ritual pouring vessel, $250, Worn Store. 4 Clae Studio ‘Speckle’ bowl, $40, Maker’s Mrkt. 5 Crinkle plaid throw in Grey, $240, Hay. 6 Etnico #1178 rug (1.8m x 2.35m), $1540, Pampa. 7 Madras rug (1.8m x 2.7m), $199, Freedom. 8 Thonet ‘S32’ chair, $1785, Anibou. 9 Little White Dish entree plates, $85 each, Elph Store. 10 Monte #14 cushion in Natural White, $195, Pampa. 11 Alfredo vase, $235 for small, Georg Jensen. 12 The Cane lounger in Natural/Natural, $869, Worn Store. 13 Le Petit pure French linen cushion cover in Soft Grey Stripes, $29.95, I Love Linen. 14 Kerryn Levy ‘Belly’ naked clay mini vase, $50, Maker’s Mrkt. 15 The Linen sheepskin, $290, Worn Store. 16 The Bucket tote bag, $89, Worn Store. 17 The Totem stump in Natural, $440, Worn Store. 18 The Cylinder stump in Natural, $330, Worn Store. 19 LEDLux ‘Wallace’ LED floor lamp with USB port in Black, $269, Beacon Lighting.

Colours and finishes FROM LEFT Essastone ‘Marmo Bianco’ gloss surface, $406.10 per sq m, Laminex. Veri blinds in Mist (1m x 1.5m), $413 including installation, Wynstan. Kalkaria tiles in Beige, $68.60 per sq m, Beaumont Tiles.

Coloured interior paint in Lighthouse, $89 for 4L, Temple & Webster. real living

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country revival

Having lovingly restored what began as a crumbling Italian manor in an ancient hilltop ’hood, Jenni Shortt has created a fresh start for her family text & styling francesca davoli/living inside photography fabrizio cicconi/living inside @reallivingmag

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homes Warm welcome Homeowner Jenni Shortt stands in front of her renovated home, with her sons Tommaso and Ludovico looking on from an upstairs window.

A place to hang Dried herbs are strung up above the table in the portico (opposite), where Jenni hosts dinners. The table was made by local craftsmen. A

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who lives here?

Jenni Shortt, a primary school teacher, and her two children Tommaso, 13, and Ludovico, 10. They also have four chickens, a pond full of fish and two tabby cats. @jenni_shortt_

THERE ARE MOMENTS IN LIFE when you realise it’s time to take stock and perhaps venture down a different path. After almost 20 years as a graphic designer, Jenni Shortt realised her career wasn’t aligned with her environmental values and beliefs, so she started a brand called Tippitappi and designed a range of organic cotton T-shirts hand-printed with ecological messages. She also developed a passion for self-sufficiency, vegan cooking and enjoying a greener lifestyle, so the natural next step was to leave the city and return to her country roots.

HEADING FOR THE HILLS The search for a suitable home for her and her two boys took Jenni to a 150-year-old property in a quiet village in northern Italy. “I saw this house – 120 square metres, and in a state of complete abandonment – and I fell in love with its great old charm,” Jenni recalls. “Once I checked with architects how I could make it safe and liveable, I took the plunge and bought it – people in the village thought I was crazy; they thought I had no chance of restoring it!”

CONSCIOUS DECISIONS Jenni was committed to restoring everything that was already in the house when she bought it, such as the original doors, which have simply been repainted.

Much of the furniture and accessories are the result of recycling and reinvention, with Jenni only buying new pieces if strictly necessary. She built the boys’ beds from old trunks and scrap pallets, the floor was made with discarded beams from another old house, while timber abandoned by the builders at the end of the reno became the outdoor table. “Furnishing this way is fun, sustainable and the result is always unique. The house is now a comfortable and welcoming home,” Jenni says.

SHARED SPACE It’s a warm welcome that she now extends to others. Jenni has started a home restaurant, serving plantbased meals in the covered portico as part of a program that promotes local green activities. And soon it will be possible to stay in Jenni’s home by booking through Airbnb, allowing guests to experience a simpler, greener lifestyle and be treated to one of her incomparable breakfasts. Sounds divine to us! R Breathing space A reclaimed sofa is covered with antique cotton cloth.

On the fireplace is an artwork titled Opera by Andrea Saltini. “My living room is my nest where I like to bring nature inside and display different kinds of branches and wild flowers,” Jenni says. “It’s the perfect place to relax.” A

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Cosy cucina Jenni designed the kitchen herself and had it made by local artisans. A respect for the environment formed the basis of many of her decisions and she worked with eco-conscious materials, such as clay, lime, sand and stone, wherever possible.

Time out Armchairs in the portico (opposite) were salvaged and repaired. Jenni had the cushions made, based on her design. A

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style tip Reclaimed and recycled materials are a great sustainable choice and will help retain an old home’s original charms A

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additional text victoria kingsbury

homes

Happy place The kitchen (opposite and top left) is Jenni’s favourite room. “It’s my cosy lab where I cook and make things,” she says. Botanic bounty Dried herbs and wild flowers fill Jenni’s home (top right and bottom left) – many are picked from the garden and fields around her home. Onwards and upwards The stairs leading up to the bedrooms showcase the lime walls on one side and exposed stone on the other – an ode to Jenni’s sympathetic restoration.

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Well-earned rest Jenni has made this space her own with a reclaimed bed covered with various fabrics and a framed artwork on the bedside table that she made. The vases were all flea market finds. “I love thrifting and the idea of giving old, discarded objects a new life by placing them out of context or using them for a different purpose,” Jenni says.

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1 Vintage Umbrella pendant light in Rust, $93, Fat Shack Vintage. 2 Rachel Dein ‘Parsley’ plaster tile, $103.23, Etsy. 3 Linen pillowcases in Indigo, $85 for 2, Cultiver.

4 Waffle hand towel in Almond, $24.90, Città. 5 Calo framed canvas, $99, Castlery. 6 Voronoii pendant, $175, Urban Lighting. 7 Dine linen napkin in Duck Egg, $12.90, Città. 8 Hand woven linen blend tea towel in Shell, $29.90, Città. 9 Pantry jar set, $49, Seed & Sprout. 10 R&D Collection ‘Highclere’ tumblers, $149 for pair, Royal Doulton. 11 Elegance tall decanter, $249, Waterford. 12 Villa fliptop table in Natural Oak, $699, Provincial Home Living. 13 Khamis aged ceramic urn in Sand, $690 for small, Papaya. 14 Kubu log basket in Aged Grey, $99.95, Provincial Home Living. 15 Live Edge dining table in Light Walnut, $999, Amart Furniture. 16 Round wooden tray with green glass votives, $65 for set, Tara Dennis. 17 Rara Studio vase in large 4, $175, Koskela. 18 Refine vase in Brown, $59.95, Salt&Pepper. 19 Linen blend slip wash 2-seater sofa in Snow, $3599, Harpers Project. 20 Given cushion cover, $119, Pony Rider. 21 Minna ‘Formas II’ pillow, $275, Koskela.

Colours and finishes FROM LEFT Veri blinds in Mist (1m x 1.5m), $413 including installation, Wynstan.

Eggshell paint in Angel Bay, $85 for 1L, Graham & Brown. Seascape bricks in Sea Salt, $5843 for 1000, PGH Bricks & Pavers. European Oak flooring in Aged Smoked & Limed, from $121 per sq m, Royal Oak Floors. real living

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Mixed bag Mismatched sets, vintage wares and family heirlooms are all invited to this savvy soiree – and so are you! Abbotson linen bed cover in White, $419.95 for queen, Sheridan. Louis XVI-style carved and painted settee, $4450, The Vault Sydney. ON SETTEE Round silver tray, $55, The Lost + Found Department. Blue fluted covered sugar bowl, $149, and White fluted teapot (11L), $99.95, Royal Copenhagen. Globe spoon, $249 as part of 16-piece set, Wedgwood. Vintage vase and plate, from Vinnies.

Assorted stacked plates and bowls from Wedgwood, Iittala, Royal Copenhagen, Royal Albert and charity stores.

Turn over for our anything-goes take on entertaining. A

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WELCOME TO

Expecting company? Before you rush out to buy a whole new dinner set, check the contents of your cupboards. Mismatched crockery, vintage finds and Nanna’s hand-me-downs can all coexist beautifully. Allow us to show you how… creative direction sandy dao photography dave wheeler styling lisa burden & natalie johnson

DISH DUTY Bordeaux internal 3-panel door in MDF White Prime, $715, Schots Home Emporium. ON DOOR Resistance Ultra-Matt Emulsion paint in Nostalgia, $120 for 2.5L, Graham & Brown. Sarlat shouldered Euro lever set in Chrome, $183.50, Schots Home Emporium. GoldenHornSupplies extra-large silk tassel in Gold, $3.70 for 2, Etsy. Custom-designed brass rectangular paper weight (used as wall plaque), Studiokyss. ON WALL Resistance Ultra-Matt Emulsion paint in Bluebird, $120 for 2.5L, Graham & Brown. Traditional numeral 1 in Polished Brass, $8.95, Schots Home Emporium. Transitional curved arm wall light, $169, Lighting Collective. ON FLOOR Hamburg rug in Pink/Beige (2.5m x 3m), $5590, The Rug Collection. Natural linen napkin, $60 for 4, Philé. Harrison large oval tray, $139, Pottery Barn. Vase, from stylist’s mum. Vera Wang sequin crystal Champagne saucer, $149 for pair, and Globe Champagne flute, $99.95 for 2, Wedgwood. Letang & Remy vintage silver-plated ice bucket, $475, Becker Minty. Perrier Jouët Grand Brut champagne, $99.99, Vintage Cellars.

Candleholder, from Vinnies. Verre-Eglomise mirror with gilt border, $950 for small, The Vault Sydney. A

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shop HAVE YOUR CAKE Theodore day bed in Boucle Fleece, $4260, GlobeWest. Francia sideboard in Distressed Off White, $2499, Canalside Interiors. Louis XVI-style carved and painted stool, $1800, The Vault Sydney. ON DAY BED Designers Guild ‘Dufrene’ cushion in Moss, $150, Radford Furnishings. Playa short robe in Pharoah Stripe, $495, Lucy Folk. 100 Years teaware plate, $399 for 5, Royal Albert. ON SIDEBOARD (LEFT TO RIGHT) Kastehelmi cake stand in Clear (24cm), $99.95, Iittala. Wild Strawberry 2-tier cake stand, $299, Wedgwood. Plate and candlestick, from stylist’s grandmother. White taper candle, $2.99, Dusk. Kastehelmi cake stand in Clear (31cm), $129, Iittala. 100 Years teaware plate, as before. Glass cake stand, $49, The Lost + Found Department. Kastehelmi footed bowl in Clear, $39.95, Iittala. Simply Wish cake stand (28cm), $149, Wedgwood. Etagere blue-fluted mega 3-tier cake stand, $299, Royal Copenhagen. Gold Columbia plate (20cm), $159, Wedgwood. Glass candlestick with candle and glass dessert bowl, from charity store. ON WALLS Resistance Ultra-Matt Emulsion paint in Bluebird, as before, with trims painted in Resistance Ultra-Matt Emulsion paint in Little Boy Blue, $120 for 2.5L, Graham & Brown. Transitional curved arm wall lights, as before. Serge Gaisbourg framed picture, $150, Montmartre. ON FLOOR Opera flooring in Naturel, from $30 per sq m (not including installation), Gerflor. Rug Culture ‘Esquire Central Oriental’ rug in Beige (2m x 2.9m), $455, Living Styles. ON WINDOW Curtains in Designers Guild ‘Brera Gessato’ fabric in Coral, $292 for 1m, Radford Furnishings.

self-serve soiree An elegant arrangement of disparate dishes is perfectly suited to a helpyourself-style setting, such as an afternoon tea, birthday party smorgasbord or baby shower lolly table. Display your delectable offerings on platters, bowls, cake stands and trays of varying heights and sizes, positioning them along the length of your table or sideboard much like a city skyline. Dot some ornate candlesticks, teacups, vases and servingware in amongst the arrangement to bulk up the display and provide visual talking points for your guests. A

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MORNING RITUAL Louis XVI-style carved and painted settee, $4450, The Vault Sydney. Leona cube side tables, $399 each, Pottery Barn. ON BED Abbotson linen bed cover in White, $419.95 for queen, 1000 thread-count Hotel Luxury pillowcases in Snow, $109.95 for pair, and 1200 thread-count Masterson European pillowcases in Cadet, $109.95 each, Sheridan. Quilt cover set in Purity White, $179 for double including 2 pillowcases, Crisp Sheets. Rectangle blush velvet cushion, $89, and Fringe cushion in Sky Blue, $129.95, The Lost + Found Department. ON SETTEE Round silver tray, $55, The Lost + Found Department. Blue fluted covered sugar bowl, $149, and White fluted teapot (1L), $99.95, Royal Copenhagen. Globe spoon, $249 as part of 16-piece set, Wedgwood. Vintage vase and plate, from Vinnies. Assorted stacked plates and bowls from Wedgwood, Iittala, Royal Copenhagen, Royal Albert and charity store. ON SIDE TABLES Lamps, $160 each, oval table mirror, $69.95, and Glass dome, $19.95, The Lost + Found Department. Santa Maria Novella ‘Candles of the Hours’ scented candle in Vespro, $125 for 200g, Agence de Parfum. 100 Years teacup and saucer, $699 for 10-piece set, Royal Albert. ON WALLS Resistance Ultra-Matt Emulsion paint in Bluebird and Little Boy Blue, as before. Boy with Earring artwork, $950 unframed, Camille Olsen Ormandy, in Knoppang frame in White (21cm x 30cm), $6.99, Ikea. ON FLOOR Opera flooring, as before. OPPOSITE Abbotson linen bed cover, Quilt cover set, Fringe cushion, Natural linen napkin, Harrison large oval tray, and custom-designed brass rectangular paper weight, as before. The Carron Apolline platter, $189 for small, and glass condiment jar with spoon, $9.95, The Lost + Found Department. Blue fluted oval dish, $99.95, and egg cup, $39.95, Royal Copenhagen. Arris covered sugar bowl, $169 as part of set with creamer, and teacup and saucer, $99.95, Wedgwood.

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breakfast in bed There’s nothing quite so decadent as having a meal brought to you in bed, and the dishes that it comes served on matter just as much as the delicious spread. An eclectic selection of plates and teaware has a certain charm that a perfectly matched set never will.

Choose pieces in a complementary colour, pattern or shape, mixing old and new for a sentimental touch. A

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shop intimate gathering Sometimes the best occasions are the ones thrown together at the last minute.

Casual and impromptu, nothing fancy, but nonetheless memorable. This is where your trusty repertoire of ‘special occasion’ plates, glassware and cutlery can finally have their moment. Modern plates with vintage cutlery; Champagne flutes from your parents’ wedding alongside bargain store tumblers – there are no rules here, because ultimately, it’s all about the company! R

photography assistant eli samuel | styling assistants georgia brady; catherine riolo; krystel robinson; nate vella

TABLE FOR TWO Louis XVI-style carved and painted settee, as before. ON SETTEE Bags, Chanel. Floral box, Gucci. ON WALLS Resistance Ultra-Matt Emulsion paint in Bluebird and Little Boy Blue, as before.

ON FLOOR Boxes, Wedgwood. 100 Years teaware plates, as before. Yellow cylinder, holding Giftology ‘Alana’ bowl (12cm), $99.95, Waterford. Magnolia Blossom vase, $299 for large, and Wonderlust ‘Primrose’ teacup and saucer, $99.95, Wedgwood. OPPOSITE Louis XVI carver chair, $980, Christophe Living, upholstered in Baker Lifestyle ‘Design Jive’ fabric in Ochre, Elliott Clarke Textiles. ON TABLE Marie Baroque curtain fabric (used as tablecloth), $20 per m, Spotlight. Aalto vase in Clear (25.1cm), $299, and Raami tumbler in Clear, $29.95 for pair, Iittala. Magnolia Blossom bud vase (13cm), $199, Arris plates, $49.95 for 17cm and $69.95 for 28cm, Wild Strawberry plates (holding baguette and cutlery), $149 as part of 4-piece set, and Globe cutlery, as before, all Wedgwood. Perrier Jouët Grand Brut champagne, as before. Vera Wang sequin crystal Champagne saucer, and Globe Champagne flute, as before. Salt and pepper shakers and crystal bowl, from stylist’s grandmother. Butter dish, from stylist’s mum. Vintage Wallace Sterling silver and glass coasters, $445 for 10, Becker Minty. Baume a Levres and Rouge a Levres Voile lipsticks, $57 each, Gucci. Glass dish, from Salvos Store. ON WALLS Resistance Ultra-Matt Emulsion paint in Bluebird and Little Boy Blue, as before. ON WINDOW Curtains in Designers Guild ‘Brera Gessato’ fabric, as before.

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This month, the spotlight is on servingware that takes the cake (and other foodstuffs)…

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photography kristina soljo | styling sophie wilson

BACKGROUND, FOR SIMILAR, TRY INTERIOR EXPRESSIONS PAINT IN ROSE AURA, $87.94 FOR 4L, HAYMES.

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sets appeal Morning or afternoon, teatime is a treat with a winning cup and saucer B R E W S C L U E S CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Wonderlust Tonquin teacup and saucer in Yellow, $89.95, Wedgwood. Jasper Conran ‘Chinoiserie’ teacup and saucer, $249 for 2 sets, Wedgwood. Caro teacup and saucer, $17.95, Salt&Pepper. Round teacup and saucer in Milk, $79, Mud Australia. Spode ‘Blue Italian’ teacup and saucer, $69.95, David Jones. Tea & C’s ‘Contessa’ teacup and saucer in Pink, $19.95, Maxwell & Williams. A real living

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TILES, FOR SIMILAR, TRY WHITE GLOSS TILES, FROM $47.2 PER SQ M, BEAUMONT TILES. COLOURED GROUT, FOR SIMILAR, TRY MAPEI ‘KERAPOXY’, $86 FOR 5KG, TILE GROUT.

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oh-so dishy Classy and unassuming, neutral plates allow the food to be the star S E RV E ’ S U P CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Finch dinner plate, $32.90, Città. Organic Matt White plate (16cm), $24, Clay Beehive. Bread plate, $37, Mud Australia. Satin White dessert/side plate, $35, Claykat Ceramics. Caro side plate, $14.95, Salt&Pepper. York Avenue ‘Tidbit’ side plate, $129, Kate Spade. A

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ON

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BACKGROUND, FOR SIMILAR, TRY REBEL WALLS ‘INDUSTRIAL SURFACES’ WALLPAPER IN SOLID CONCRETE, $85 PER SQ M, SCANDINAVIAN WALLPAPER & DÉCOR.

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bowled over Brilliant bowls bring a little sunshine to breakfast, lunch or dinner SOUPED UP CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Jasper Conran ‘Strata’ cereal bowl, $29.95, Wedgwood. Spoon, for similar, try Bugatti ‘Glamour’ stainless steel 24-piece cutlery set in Lotus Pink, $299, Temple & Webster. Caro cereal bowl, $14.95, Salt&Pepper. Flared bowl in Orange, $47, Mud Australia. White Fluted deep plate, $39.95, Royal Copenhagen. Spoon, for similar, try Villeroy & Boch ‘Play!’ bordssked spoon in Green Garden, $19, Royal Design. OYOY ‘Inka’ bowl in Rose, $59, Designstuff. Kastehelmi bowl, $64.95, Iittala. R real living

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Interior motif There’s more to pattern than creating layered OTT looks. This home shows us how to use it with restraint. Turn the page for tips on how to make a statement with pattern in subtle ways. A

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Neutral territory While colour and pattern are the main attractions in this 1930s home, owner Cristiana Ruspa opted for white walls, oors and ceilings. The result is a clean and unassuming canvas that allows bold elements, like the statement colour-block furniture, to shine without overwhelming the senses. White paint also helps emphasise the ornate mouldings and cornices. Flip the script You can play with pattern discreetly. In this living area (opposite), stripes are used horizontally in the curtains and vertically on the wallpaper and mezzanine. Rotating the orientation is a simple, understated technique, but it keeps the eye engaged and intrigued. A

photography denise bonenti/living inside styling barbara vergnano text lindyl crabb

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When used with equal parts creativity and restraint, pattern and colour become the visual glue that harmoniously ties a space together, as seen in this home

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WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT PATTERN, words like bold! brave! colourful! and clash! typically spring to mind, which can be quite offputting if that’s not the look you want to achieve. The good news is, we’ve noticed a move towards interiors that are taking a considered, less is more approach to using pattern. And not just in one room, but throughout the entire home.

Cristiana Ruspa’s 1930s property is a perfect example. Sticking to these guidelines will help you strike the right balance, but there’s also room to inject your own personal style. After all, decorating with pattern should be fun.

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There’s pattern galore in this home, from the wallpaper and upholstery to the rugs and curtains. So how did Cristiana make this daring scheme feel so calming and cohesive?

It comes down to repeating just two types of motifs – in this case, florals and stripes, which are both classic patterns. They also allude to the outdoors – one is botanical and the other is nautical. By thinking of pattern as a ‘theme’ and sticking to one or two types, you’re free to use multiple variations. Here, for example, Cristiana opted for a few different stripes that are wide-set and traditional, while the florals range from dainty and delicate to damask. A

who lives here?

Cristiana Ruspa, founder of landscape architecture studio Giardino Segreto, with her three children, daughter Sofia and twins Filippo and Letizia.

Giardinosegreto.com | @giardino_segreto

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Common ground Timber is a trusty ‘neutral’ material that has a grounding effect in spaces with contrasting motifs and colours. Here (above left), wooden furniture, frames, floors and balustrades bring the dynamic, experimental aspects back down to earth. Wall flowers Painted crown mouldings (above right) and frames are an asset in spaces with florid wallpaper, because they subtly break up the pattern, provide a focal point and give the room structure. In this hallway, the trims are painted in a colour similar to the wallpaper for a cohesive look. Balancing act Tempering all that pattern with lots of solid colour and neutral space is key to achieving visual harmony. There’s no fixed rule, but try to keep the ratio almost even. The balance of stripes to solids (opposite) is about 40:60, thanks to the white floors and walls.

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About time Cristiana mixed traditional and retro patterned wallpaper (above left) with shapely contemporary furniture, giving her home a refreshing and timeless appeal. Lighten up These curtains (above right) are an example of how pattern can be disguised as a neutral. The simple dove grey and white stripes are a subtle addition and work well with the room’s colour scheme. The effect is more calming than you’d expect from patterned window furnishings. Go halves If striped walls are too bold for your tastes, you can dabble in the look with a half wall of wallpaper (opposite). That way, you achieve dynamic visual interest and balance in one go.

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The same less is more rule applies to Cristiana’s colour palette. In most rooms, it includes shades of green, from sage to emerald, mixed with corals on a bright white base. In spaces featuring patterned elements, the palette is very restrained and the pigments appear washed out. To create the same subdued style, choose a colour and imagine winding back the volume a few levels so the tone is soft and muted.

Another clever way to keep the look of your home fresh and light is to choose prints with white in them – notice how all of the wallpapers in this house have white backgrounds? It’s a sneaky, subtle way to inject neutrals without sacrificing playful elements. R

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A special bonus Christmas gift for our customers

Spend $750 or more on any bathroom, laundry or kitchen products throughout November and receive a free copy of the Donna Hay Christmas Feasts and Treats cookbook (valued at $45).

Visit any Cook’s showroom or buy online at cooksplumbing.com.au but only until November 30.

Offer valid in-store and online to retail customers only, for purchases made between November 1 - November 30, 2019.

All retail items purchased are eligible. Cookbook will be shipped within 2 weeks of offer redemption. Offer valid for one cookbook per customer only.

Well rounded The custom-made round dining table in this rejigged dining space by Sonja Kritzler Design allows for free-flowing dinner conversation, and Friends & Founders ‘La Pipe’ dining chairs from Fred International were selected for beauty and comfort. Sophie Moran vases from Modern Times sit atop the table, while a Douglas and Bec ‘Line 04 2.0’ pendant hangs above. Turn the page to see more of the new-and-improved home, then read on for money tips and the latest kitchen and bathroom inspo. A

meet the designer Interior designer Sonja Kritzler gave this contemporary home a more family-friendly face lift.

Sonjakritzlerdesign.com | @sonjakritzlerinteriordesign

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Ahead of the curve Interior designer Sonja Kritzler has created a functional and relaxing living space for her clients. The Swedese ‘Continental’ leather sofa from Fred International, Tati low sofa table and Nati Tati side table from Great Dane and metal Hay ‘DLM’ side table from Cult all feature curved edges for a sense of softness.

SYDNEY AUSTRALIA

PHASE 2 RENO

START AFRESH photography sharyn cairns interior design & styling sonja kritzler text stephanie hope

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LIVING

This considered redesign of a modern home proves you should never settle for less than perfection

advice

who lives here?

Anthony, an IT professional, his wife Angela, a nutritionist, and their three children. A

Mellow out Muted tones in the Kvadrat Maharam fabric curtains, Koskela rug and Brooke Holm artwork add to the room’s calming effect.

IF AT FIRST YOU DON’T SUCCEED, try, try again! This old saying is particularly applicable to Anthony and Angela, the owners of this home in the leafy, waterview suburb of Kangaroo Point, Sydney. They built the property in 2011, but came to realise over the years that they hadn’t entirely nailed it. The layout didn’t have the easy flow they desired, many of the surfaces were far from child-friendly and there was a lack of a cohesive style throughout. One day, while shopping in furniture store Jardan and struggling to make any decisions, they resolved to redesign their home to better suit their needs. The team at Jardan gave them the names of some interior designers, and they quickly decided on Sonja Kritzler Design, thanks in part to Sonja’s collaborative approach. “It was important for them to be involved in the design process,” says Sonja, “and we met regularly to ensure we were all on the same page.”

While the family lived off site, Sonja oversaw the 10-month renovation, which included a reconfiguration of the ground floor, addition to the first floor and new fixtures and fittings throughout. The existing living and dining space featured lots of tricky angles that made finding furniture to fit a challenge. In response, Sonja divided it into two distinct areas, with a breakfast banquette along one wall to define the dining, and built-in joinery along another to ground the living zone. New furniture was selected – and in some cases custom-made – to suit the dimensions of the space.

Being a nutritionist, Angela craved a kitchen that was functional and a pleasure to spend time in. With this in mind, Sonja created a layout with easy flow between the main food prep areas – fridge, stovetop, oven, sink – and ample storage and bench space. “The introduction of timber cabinetry helped soften and calm the space,” she adds. A

D E TA I L

KITCHEN

Make a splash Handmade tiles from Anchor Ceramics were chosen for their bespoke look.

Viewing platform High-backed ‘Seb’ bar stools from Jardan allow the kids to sit at the Corian island bench while Angela cooks.

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At your convenience Homeowners Anthony and Angela love the effortless flow that Sonja created in their new kitchen, which features easy-clean surfaces, instant hot water and lots of bench space. Suit your shelf A customised Royal shelving system from Great Dane is used for storage in the informal dining zone.

All together The family use the second, casual banquette area (opposite) to do homework, socialise and enjoy meals together.

advice

style tip Repetition is key for a consistent interior. The same colours, shapes and materials are echoed throughout this room, and note the trio of wall lights, chairs and vessels

Sheer brilliance Kvadrat Maharam curtains in a semisheer fabric let the light shine in.

Leading light For consistency, rounded light ďŹ ttings with brass accents are used throughout the home.

These Lord sconces are from Dowel Jones.

DINING

Come clean The built-in banquette was custom-made in easy-to-wipe-clean leather

by Tuckbox Design.

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style tip If space allows, create a sitting area in your bedroom where you can retreat for a moment’s peace. Try a comfy chair in the corner, chaise lounge at the end of the bed or a window seat

Throughout the home, materials were chosen not just for aesthetics, but also their longevity and suitability. Everything had to be easy to clean and maintain, not to mention child-friendly – leather couches rather than fabric; corian benchtops over marble; rugs and floorboards instead of carpets. And a consistent colour palette of soft grey, rose, lilac and white created that layer of softness and harmony that the family desired.

“Anthony and Angela love how their home’s interiors are high end and contemporary, but also practical for a young family,” says Sonja. “My aim was to create a soft, gentle and calming sanctuary, with a consistency and flow throughout, which is something they hadn’t managed to achieve the first time around. The house now functions for the young family, with everyone finding their own zones within the home.” R

BEDROOM

Sitting pretty The custom window seat was designed as a place to unwind, and looks directly onto the ocean views.

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advice

get the look

Same but different Both bathrooms feature Artedomus ‘Accordi’ wall tiles and Vola tapware from Sydney Tap & Bathroomware, but while the blue Agape ‘Novecento’ basin, also from Artedomus, is the focal point in the powder room (below), the master ensuite (left) has more practical cabinetry for storage. Dream time The master bedroom is a space of sanctuary, featuring a Douglas and Bec bedhead, In Bed bedlinen and an Armadillo&Co rug.

Embrace a muted scheme and rounded elements for a harmonious effect

Wall feature Scale and proportion within the wall tiles creates a point of interest in the two bathrooms.

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1 Lord sconce in Satin (15cm), $210, Dowel Jones. 2 Vola ‘KV1’ kitchen mixer in Chrome, $1515, Sydney Tap & Bathroomware. 3 Accordi M tiles in ADM242, Artedomus.

4 Low-sheen acrylic paint in K2, $114.50 for 4L, Porter’s Paints. 5 Line 2.0 wall light in Blush, about $417*, Douglas and Bec. 6 Moebe wall mirror in Brass, $599, Designstuff.

7 Tati low sofa tables, $4150 each, Great Dane.

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AT FIRST BLUSH

sneak peek

FAV E F I V E

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Our love affair with coloured concrete basins is showing no signs of slowing down and stoking the fire is Concrete Nation’s latest Artesian Series Basin Collection.

Available in three irresistible shades and two styles – round or rectangular – we’ll take any excuse for a bathroom update. $660; Cooksplumbing.com.au

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5 clean sweep

Bright ideas for your kitchen, bathroom and laundry…

HARDWORKING

QUICK DRY

soak it in Inspired by the fine porcelain designs of the Song Dynasty and created in collaboration with renowned Hong Kong-based designer Steve Leung, the Taizu bath by Victoria + Albert will turn any bathroom into a luxurious spa escape. $7400; Cassbrothers.com.au

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FE AT URE PIECE

TEA TIME

You’ll want your tea towels on full display all year round with these stylish picks.

Linen tea towel in Navy Stripe, $35, In Bed. Wattle Wheat tea towel, $39, Bonnie and Neil. Gaya tea towel in Forest Green, $24.95 for 2, Country Road.

text kate hassett | photography simon shiff (sussex taps) *conversion correct at time of print

k&b updates

Lather up with our pick of the yummiest smelling hand soaps on the market. 1 Fresh and Fruity Native Citrus hand wash, $30, Bondi Wash. 2 Forest air Le Labo ‘Hinoki’ hand soap, $34, Mecca. 3 In bloom Jo Malone ‘Orange Blossom’ body & hand wash, $61, Myer. 4 Summer spritz Coconut & Lime hand & body wash, $24.95, Palm Beach Collection. 5 Clean and crisp Lillypilly hand wash, $35, Leif.

advice

real living loves

romancing the stone For a basin that could pass for a work of art, look no further than the breathtaking Silex range from Swedish design house Vanitas. Made to order and available in seven types of marble, each piece is handcrafted to appear as if it were cut from a single block of stone, making every design one of a kind.

From about $2600*; Vanitasstudio.com

GOUR MET GADGET

GREEN MACHINE

Produced using 100 per cent renewable energy and featuring foil fronts made from recycled bottles, Ikea’s new Bodarp kitchen front is the stuff of culinary dreams. Ikea.com.au F E E L - G O O D FA C T O R

COOL RUNNINGS When the summer heat hits, the last thing you want to be doing is lining up for your gelato fix. Skip the crowds and make your own with the new ice cream bowl from Smeg, which attaches to its stand mixer. $169; Smeg.com.au

back to black Melbourne design practice Dot + Pop’s most recent project, using statement tapware from Sussex Tap’s Calibre range, proves that the matte-black fixture trend is here to stay. Made from recycled brass and produced in Melbourne, the innovative sculptural designs are as chic as they are eco-friendly. Sussextaps.com.au R real living

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advice

HOW TO EARN & SAVE

money moves to make Ever been turned down for a loan because of a bad credit rating? Effie Zahos talks us through the simple mistakes that could be damaging our score

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you miss regular repayments As of July 2019, the big four banks (CBA, Westpac, ANZ and NAB) are required by law to report both positive and negative payment information under the Comprehensive Credit Reporting (CCR) mandate. As well as credit defaults and infringements, they now also share details of credit limits, account opening and closing dates and payment histories. So what does this mean for us? If you fail to make loan repayments on time, it stays on your report for 24 months. A grace period of 14 days applies to the first overdue payment, however, once this period has passed, if you still haven’t paid the full amount owing, the late payment will go on your credit record.

On the plus side, CCR gives a more complete picture of your credit history and allows you to counteract negative events (missed payments) with positive actions (paying on time).

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you have back-to-back balance transfer cards If you’ve clocked up credit card debt, one option is to transfer the debt to a separate card with a lower interest rate to make it easier to pay it off– this is called a balance transfer. Every time you apply for a balance transfer, this is marked as an official enquiry on your credit report. Back-to-back balance transfers – that is, transferring from one card to another because you weren’t able to pay it off during the interest-free period – is never a good look. Try to minimise the number of balance transfer cards you take out and your credit score will thank you for it.

Just desserts Anya Hindmarch printed textured leather sticker, $86, The Outnet.

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you’re a big fan of buy now, pay later services While you won’t pay interest with buy now, pay later (BNPL), it’s still a loan because you have to pay it back.

So before you sign up, there are a few things you need to ask yourself. Can I afford the repayments? What are the fees? What are the consequences of missing a payment? You’re giving the company access to debit your bank account for a regular repayment, so you need to be sure you have the funds available. Plus, this debiting of your bank account leaves a digital footprint that other lenders will see. Although missing a single repayment on a BNPL arrangement won’t show up on your credit record, defaulting on the arrangement could, which can have serious implications later when you’re trying to get other forms of credit, such as a home loan.

ONLINE COURSES TURN YOUR PASSION INTO A CAREER

Plant the seed Watermelon-ita card holder, about $88*, Susan Alexandra.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A CAREER CHANGE THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO DISCOVER THE JOY AND FLEXIBILTY OF ONLINE LEARNING. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE COURSES AVAILABLE SIMPLY SCAN THE QR CODES BELOW.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PHONE 02 9327 7778

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you pay your bills late Only licensed credit providers like banks can provide your repayment history to credit agencies. However, if you default on your phone or energy bill, your provider can report this. A default applies if the debt is worth $150 or more, and is at least 60 days overdue. It stays on your file for five years.

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*conversion correct at time of print

you close a card with a good repayment history

INTERIOR DESIGN theinteriordesignacademy.com

FASHION STYLING

austcollegeprofessionalstyling.com

You’ve faithfully repaid your plastic for several years and while it makes complete financial sense to get rid of it, keep in mind that a “good account” like this can actually improve your credit score. On the other hand, while a good repayment history is impressive, your limit will reduce your borrowing power. So if you have an exceptionally high credit card limit, look to reduce this before applying for other forms of credit. R

TRAVEL WRITING

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Effie Zahos is an ambassador for Financially Fit Females and Canstar money commentator

JOURNALISM

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OUTSIDE

On the scent Sydney florist Myra Perez wants us to look beyond the centrepiece and get creative with flowers. Turn the page for her top tips on entertaining with florals. A

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Collector’s item Shelves lined with Myra Perez’s collection of rainbow-hued vessels hover above breathtaking bunches of flowers. “I won’t ever sell them. They mean too much to me,” she says.

in full bloom As one of Australia’s most in-demand florists, Myra Perez from My Violet knows a thing or two about creating the perfect posy photography kristina soljo styling sandy dao text kate hassett

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outside

MYRA PEREZ WAS WORKING for the NSW police department’s domestic unit when her daily commute inspired a career shift. “I would walk to and from work past a florist and always linger,” Myra says. “One day I bit the bullet and asked the young lady behind the counter how she started in the industry. After I left, I looked up the course at TAFE and within a few weeks, had quit my job and gone back to school.”

After starting My Violet in 2008 and working out of her home, she eventually relocated to a hole-in-thewall-style studio in Redfern. She was there until July this year, when an increasingly impressive client list prompted the move to a bigger space. It’s hard not to be gobsmacked by the towering ceilings and crisp white walls of her new Rosebery-based workshop, which is bordered by rows of rainbow-hued vases in all shapes and sizes, satisfyingly sorted by colour and anchored by an array of transient blooms. Myra and her husband Baz wanted to create a space that would help take the sting out of all those 3.45am starts to hit the flower markets. “Our first thought was, if we’re going to spend so much time here, let’s make it as comfortable and welcoming as possible,” Myra says.

Want to bring some of My Violet’s impressive styling to your next at-home event? Read on for Myra’s tips. A

Worth the wait “Flowers are a luxury so we do our best to ensure what we create arrives to our customer and leaves them smiling,” Myra says.

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All in the details Myra keeps things simple when designing an arrangement. ”For me it starts with the focal flower, the ‘hero’ bloom I will use,” Myra says.

“She determines the design and shape of what I’ll be making.”

Which flowers won’t overpower a dining experience? Tulips are simple, clean and chic. You can place a couple of stems in a beautiful bud vase or en masse and cut short, allowing them to tilt to one side.

How would you recommend arranging flowers for an intimate gathering? Try a low bowl with a mass of open garden roses or peonies. Make sure to keep them below eye level.

What are the best blooms for a cocktails and canapes setting? I like bud-vase clusters in groups of three or five, with single hero stems like orchids or anthuriums.

How do you balance foliage and florals when curating an arrangement? Oh that’s easy.

I’m obsessed with flowers always being kept ‘juicy’. Less foliage at all times. The foliage is there to either support or complement the bloom, but it should never overpower the flower.

What are some creative ways to display flowers? I love poppies in vintage kettles, blown roses in old tomato tins and cookie jars filled with sunflowers. Old bottles are also great for displaying single stems cut to different lengths. When I first opened I couldn’t afford to stock my shelves, so I used all of the above as vases. @reallivingmag

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Colour my world When Myra and her husband Baz were designing the new studio, they wanted to create a space that made them feel happy first and foremost. “My new studio makes me smile.” Myra says. “To me it’s a place of creativity and freedom.

There’s a warm, homely feel to it and that’s not by accident.”

budget-friendly ways to wow with flowers 1. A beautiful tea cup, a lemonade jug or a ceramic mug filled with the right blooms can make an amazing centrepiece and adds a personal touch.

2. Look in your garden for something green and fragrant to display. A simple cup holding basil or mint with a couple of geranium stems makes for a beautiful summer arrangement.

3. Line the centre of your table with banana leaves and use them to serve food instead of plates.

4. Add edible flowers to salads, desserts and ice cubes for an impressive way to jazz up your cocktails.

5. Even having lush green leaves in a vase will add inexpensive impact. R See more of Myra’s work on her website, Myviolet.com.au; Instagram @mivioleta

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Forte wall light in Brass base, $109, About Space Lighting.

Zephyr vessel in Matte White, $73 for large, Urban Eden & Co.

W H A T ’ S Esther indoor/ outdoor table, from $1850, House of Orange.

Fernando hexagon encaustic tiles in Pink, $149 per sq m, Teranova Ceramics.

CHANEL RESORT 2020

Tessuti umbrella in Campari, $945 for 2m, Basil Bangs.

Rodeo rope dining chair, $199, Harvey Norman.

Parker outdoor dining chair in Blue, $895 for pair, Max Sparrow.

the look a fresh take on pretty pastels

S T A Y C A T I O N Kent bench in Whiskey, $1490, Barnaby Lane.

Short plant stand in Pink, $10, Kmart.

HK Living ‘B’ cushion, $124.95, House of Orange.

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Ferm Living ‘Bau’ balcony box in Dusty Rose, $110, Finnish Design Shop.

outside Astrid geometric indoor/outdoor rug in Coral (2.3m x 1.6m), $554, Miss Amara.

Lyon 1-seater sofa in White/Oyster, $1720, GlobeWest.

Garden Glory garden hose in Rusty Rose, $170.01, The Block Shop.

Y O U R

Terrance Mateo indoor/outdoor rug in Blue (3m x 4m), $715, LivingStyles.

Verona concrete coffee table, $695, Coco Republic.

Stump tree stool, $395, Harpers Project.

Lagoon 1-seater sofa in Spa/ White, $2300, GlobeWest.

S T Y L E ?

Raja’s rattan planter in Paprika, $175, Raja Homewares.

Inspired by three resort fashion collections, our edit of outdoor buys will transform your alfresco area into a stylish destination

Umbria outdoor scatter cushion in Nude/White, $135, Coco Republic.

Överallt cushion in Multicolour, $14.99, Ikea.

Savannah chair, $599.95, Pillow Talk.

Home Republic ‘Sussex’ terracotta pot, $59.99, Adairs. real living

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Ossa concrete oval dining table in White, $3220, GlobeWest.

Stripe outdoor cushion in Mustard, $8, Kmart.

Seam stacking chair, $750, Tait.

Wyatt concrete stool, $425, Coco Republic.

Gladom tray table in Dark Green, $19.99, Ikea.

the look sun-bleached citrus hues

Bon Bon vase in Fluoro Yellow, $55 for small, Lightly.

Petite Friture ‘Week-end’ bench in Yellow, $786, Finnish Design Shop.

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photography getty images (fashion) | still-life styling lisa burden

Diarama tiles in Maize Light, $350 per sq m, Di Lorenzo.

AJE RESORT 2020

PC portable lamp in Cream White, $160, Hay.

Trace planter in Textured Surfmist, $1892 for large, Tait.

outside Catania outdoor cushion in Blue, $34, Freedom.

Rug Culture ‘Jorden’ rug in Citrus (4m x 3m), $459, Zanui.

Rand 2 light wall bracket in White, $89.95, Beacon Lighting.

Nautilus cushion cover in Yellow, $132, No Chintz.

Sun Ray beach umbrella, $249, Sunday Supply Co.

Marina square block in Aged Teak, $980, GlobeWest.

Pretzel armchair in White, $1249, Naturally Cane.

Capra Designs ‘Match Stick Minimo’ plant stand in Golden Terrazzo, $69, The Block Shop.

Fontana Arte ‘Koho’ lamp in Yellow, $890, Radiant Lighting.

Lunar concrete stool, $425, Coco Republic. A

Berlin terrazzo coffee table in White, $289, Vorsen.

Archie pot in Golden Terrazzo, $69, Capra Designs.

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outside Butter stool in Sage, $305, DesignByThem.

Lane tiles in Poly White, $255 per sq m, Di Lorenzo.

Fermob ‘Mooon!’ table lamp in Honey, $280, Finnish Design Shop.

Picket room divider in Sage, $1195, DesignByThem.

Home Republic ‘Lashio’ natural bamboo lantern, $179.99, Adairs.

Lagoon oval coffee table in Mustard, $1295, GlobeWest.

MIU MIU RESORT 2020

the look geometric silhouettes

Brusen 3-seat sofa in Red, $329, Ikea.

Roskilde indoor/outdoor rug in Green-Blue, $149, Ikea.

Funkön cushion cover in Yellow, $4.99, Ikea.

Siobahn round outdoor cushion, $89, Nathan + Jac.

Crofty outdoor beanbag, $290, Nathan + Jac. Salt&Pepper ‘Refine Totem’ planter in Black, $111, Domayne.

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Trace drinks trolley, $2180, Tait.

Darwin tray in Blush, $34.95, Provincial Home Living. R

Renaissance Gold available online and at selected David Jones and Myer stores nationally. wedgwood.com.au

Bit on the side Move over boring boiled veg – today’s side dishes are all about fresh, easyto-use ingredients and maximum flavour. Turn the page for four crowd-pleasing recipes. A

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simple pleasures Colourful, fresh and delicious, these super sides will transform any meal into an affair to remember

salted citrus salad with fennel, radish and olive @reallivingmag

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10 mins

eat

12 mins

celery salad with coriander and sesame

the greatest creamed greens @reallivingmag

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20 mins

recipes alison roman | photography michael graydon & nikole herriott

eat

melon with crispy ham and ricotta salata

22 mins

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salted citrus salad with fennel, radish and olive

celery salad with coriander and sesame

Serves 4–6 Prep time 10 mins

Serves 4–6 Prep time 10 mins Cooking time 2 mins

¼ cup Castelvetrano or oil-cured black olives, pitted and crushed ¼ cup olive oil 4 tangerines, or 2 oranges or blood oranges (or a mix), peeled and sliced into 5mm rounds, seeds removed Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Honey, to taste 2 tbsp lemon or lime juice, plus extra to taste 1 fennel bulb, trimmed and thinly sliced lengthways 1 small or ½ large watermelon radish, very thinly sliced (or 4 red radishes, thinly sliced)

2 tbsp white sesame seeds 6 spring onions, green and white parts, thinly sliced on the diagonal 4 celery stalks and leaves, very thinly sliced on the diagonal 1 bunch coriander, tender leaves and stems cut into 5cm lengths 1 green chilli, seeds removed, thinly sliced 1 tbsp fish sauce 3 tbsp unseasoned rice wine vinegar, plus extra to taste 2 tbsp lime juice, plus extra to taste Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tbsp canola oil 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil ¼ cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

Combine olives and olive oil in a small bowl; set aside.

Place citrus slices on a large serving plate or platter. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle with a little honey or squeeze a little lemon juice over as needed to make sure everything is tasting as sweet, sour and balanced as possible.

3 Toss fennel, radish and 2 tbsp lemon or lime juice in a medium bowl; season with salt and pepper. Add more lemon juice and salt as needed to make the vegetables very tangy and almost too salty.

4 Top citrus slices with fennel mixture then spoon olive mixture on top. Finish with black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Serve.

DO AHEAD Citrus, fennel and radish can all be peeled and sliced a few hours ahead, wrapped and refrigerated.

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Toast sesame seeds in a small frying pan over medium–high heat until golden brown and starting to pop, about 2 minutes.

Remove from the heat and set aside.

2 Toss spring onions, celery, coriander, chilli, fish sauce, vinegar and lime juice together in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then add sesame oil and ¼ cup olive oil. Season with more salt and pepper, adding more lime juice or vinegar, if you like.

3 Transfer to a large bowl or serving platter and top with toasted sesame seeds, pepper and a final drizzle of olive oil.

DO AHEAD Spring onion, celery, coriander and chilli can be combined a day ahead and refrigerated in a large zip-lock bag.

Dress salad just before serving.

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the greatest creamed greens

melon with crispy ham and ricotta salata

Serves 4–6 Prep time 10 mins Cooking time 10 mins

Serves 4–8 Prep time 10 mins Cooking time 8–12 mins

¾ cup freshly made coarse breadcrumbs or panko (optional) 2 tbsp olive oil, plus an extra 3 tbsp if using breadcrumbs Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 cup thick (double) cream 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg 2 large bunches kale, mustard greens, spinach, broccolini or silverbeet, thick stems removed, coarsely chopped ½ cup crème fraîche

115g thinly sliced prosciutto, speck or coppa ham 1 honeydew, rockmelon or other melon, cut into thin wedges, peel removed if you like 1 lemon, cut in half Sea salt flakes 60g ricotta salata or firm mild fetta, very thinly sliced Olive oil, for drizzling Freshly ground black pepper Preheat oven to 215°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper.

Lay prosciutto on tray in a thin, even layer without overlapping or touching. Bake until crispy and crunchy, about 8–12 minutes.

Remove from heat and set aside.

2 Place melon wedges on a large platter and squeeze lemon juice all over. Sprinkle with salt flakes.

3 Arrange ricotta and scatter crispy ham on top.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper just before serving.

DO AHEAD Ham can be crisped 2 days ahead. Store, covered, at cool room temperature.

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Place breadcrumbs (if using) in a small bowl with extra olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Toast breadcrumbs in a large frying pan over medium–high heat, tossing frequently until well toasted and crisp, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2 Bring cream to a simmer in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and nutmeg and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer until reduced by half, about 15–20 minutes; the cream should be thick and very, very rich (it will dilute once added to greens).

3 Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add greens, a handful at a time, and season with salt and pepper. Cook, adding more greens when the ones in the saucepan wilt down. Stir frequently, until all greens are bright green and cooking water begins to evaporate, about 5–8 minutes, depending on the type of greens.

Continue to cook for a further 5 minutes, until most of the water has evaporated and greens are totally tender.

4 Add cream mixture and crème fraîche to greens, season with salt and pepper and mix to evenly coat greens. Cook for a further 1–2 minutes to heat through, then transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs, if using, and serve.

DO AHEAD Creamed greens can be made a few hours in advance, covered loosely and stored at room temperature. Reheat over medium heat and garnish with breadcrumbs just before serving.

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Quick, smart This is an edited extract from Nothing Fancy by Alison Roman, $45, Hardie Grant. Pick up a copy for more easy, delicious recipes that’ll wow your crowd. R real living

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a real living PROMOT ION

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

TOP ROW Caroma The Elvire Progressive Wall Basin Mixer with Tasmanian Timber Handle brings a never-seen-before level of luxury to tapware. $949; Caroma.com.au Castlery’s latest addition to its designer series; the Bickerton sofa created with Australian designer Marcel Sigel, is a compact three-seater that packs a design punch. $1299; Castlery.com.au Choices Flooring Plantino Laminate Noosa can be installed without unsightly transitions, and is steam mop-able and water-resistant for up to 72 hours. Choicesflooring.com.au SECOND ROW Domayne The Set cushion in Citrus features golden windows of sunshine set against a soft beige background, for just the right balance of relaxed and bright. $59; Domayne.com.au Fisher & Paykel’s 12kg ActiveIntelligence™ Front Loader Washing Machine and 9kg Heat Pump Condensing Dryer have matching wash and dry cycles for complete fabric care.

Fisherpaykel.com/au THIRD ROW Ilve The new 90cm AFG999 ‘Pellegrino’ freestanding cooker from Artusi is the ultimate kitchen centrepiece, with the perfect combination of modern technology, functional design and vintage style. $4799; Ilve.com.au Inky Co. has released its Christmas collection of printed wrapping papers and accessories for 2019, and it’s stunning!

Roll wraps, $16 for 10m; Inkyco.com.au Kaboodle Driven by global design trends, Kaboodle’s trends range features six new colours in its collection of doors and panels, including matte black, smoked grey, a rich green, deep navy and two concrete looks. Kaboodle.com.au BOTTOM ROW Cook’s Plumbing The Everhard Nugleam 45L laundry sink features a modern flat-edge design to take on the dirtiest of tasks. $334; Cooksplumbing.com.au Snooze With a design inspired by iconic hotels in New York, each luxurious mattress in the Madison Pure Indulgence range is hand-finished using traditional methods by a team of dedicated mattress makers. Snooze.com.au Harvey Norman The Woodland 4-piece Outdoor Lounge Setting showcases a vertical slat design that’s sure to surprise and delight. $3499 for a 2-seater sofa, two armchairs and round coffee table; Harveynorman.com.au

Buzzing! If you’re after a getaway that will excite the senses and satiate your appetite (for food and shopping), you can’t go past Hong Kong. Turn the page to discover where to eat, sleep and shop. A

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photography irwin chan

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in the mood for Food, shopping, culture and great hotels – Hong Kong has it all. Here’s where to eat, visit and stay on your next city escape

hong kong

VICTORIA HARBOUR A tale of one city The sight of a traditional Chinese junk (sailing ship) against the backdrop of a modern skyline encapsulates the magic of Hong Kong. @reallivingmag

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photography courtesy of hong kong tourism board (left); irwin chan (right)

text elle lovelock

travel

MAN MO TEMPLE Peace and quiet Large spirals of burning incense hang from the ceiling of Man Mo Temple, filling the air with scented smoke and adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the place.

2 2 ° 18 ’ 5 9 . 9 ” N / 113 ° 5 5 ’ 0 6 . 7 ” E

currency Hong Kong dollar

language Cantonese, English

when to visit March through to April, October through to November

HONG KONG IS, QUITE SIMPLY, one of the most amazing cities in the world. It’s where east truly meets west. Where traditional Chinese temples sit alongside financier-filled skyscrapers. Where you can find Michelin-star pork buns (for only six Aussie dollars!) and a cup of English breakfast tea made so perfectly strong, it would please HRH The Queen.

Whether you’re stopping over, or here for a longer stay, there’s plenty to eat, see and do.

With so many hotels around, it can be tricky knowing where to stay, but the Central district on Hong Kong island is a good place to start. As the name suggests, it’s central to everything, from the Star Ferry (only about 50 cents to travel across Victoria Harbour, see below) to some of the most incredible shopping malls you’ve ever seen. For an authentic Hong Kong experience, try the Mandarin Oriental; for ultra-cool new Hong Kong, check out Ovolo; and for a luxurious getaway, The Landmark is the place to stay.

With food, it’s a similar story, from the traditional Cantonese restaurant Man Wah to the 21st-century Mott 32 and all the cheap and easy (but SO delicious) dumpling outlets you could wish for. Our pick is Tim Ho Wan for the aforementioned award-winning dim sum.

Shopping here can be a little pricey compared to years past, but you can still pick up some excellent bargains from the markets. Head to the Ladies Market for clothing (and for men, too, these days), homewares and curios, Lascar Row for antiques and Temple Street Night Market for souvenirs and a good time.

Other must-do activities in Hong Kong include a trip to Victoria Peak to soak up the incredible views over the city and harbour. There’s a cable car that takes you straight up the mountain, which is great fun, but if the queues are too long or if heights aren’t really your thing, you can travel by taxi for about $20. A ride across the harbour on the super-cheap Star Ferry is also essential while in Hong Kong. It’s a fantastic way to take in the captivating sights, and if you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love it.

After all the shopping, eating and sightseeing, make sure you allow yourself a moment of peace in one of the beautiful gardens or temples – it’s a wonderful way to absorb the traditional Chinese culture, and to recharge and restore. These quiet moments will provide you with the perfect balance to the busyness of this exciting city. A real living

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VICTORIA HARBOUR

shopping CAUSEWAY BAY Matheson St, Causeway Bay A shopper’s paradise! Department stores, high-end luxury boutiques and markets… put on your most comfy walking shoes and get your wallet ready. It’s time to shop.

CAT STREET Hollywood Rd, Sheung Wan Antique lovers and treasure hunters should head to Cat Street, also known as Upper Lascar Row, for the antique dealers, curios merchants and art galleries.

hong kong right now Despite the current political unrest, Hong Kong is still safe to travel to, but be sure to check Smartraveller.gov.au for warnings before you go.

Far and wide The view from Victoria Peak takes in the whole of the harbour and offers some of the best photo opportunities in the city – smog levels permitting!

VICTORIA PEAK

MOTT 32

Eat, see and do From the Chinoiserie wallpaper to the looks-like-art desserts, Mott 32 (above) is a fabulous dining experience. Choi Hung Estate (right) is one of the most Instagrammed spots in the city, and it’s easy to see why. @reallivingmag

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photography courtesy of hong kong tourism board, mott 32, ho lee fook, nectar and ovolo hotels

MONG KOK DISTRICT Argyle St, Mong Kok This area has some of the best shopping streets in the city, specialising in sneakers, kitchenwares, flowers and birds – though you’ll probably only visit the latter for the sightseeing. This is also where you’ll find the famous Ladies Market.

travel Set sail Everyone who visits Hong Kong should take a trip on the Star Ferry. It costs as little as 50 cents and is especially great for kids. There are two Ovolo hotels (right) in Hong Kong, both as stylish as each other.

OVOLO SOUTHSIDE

OVOLO CENTRAL

stay MANDARIN ORIENTAL 5 Connaught Rd, Central Mandarinoriental.com A wonderful east-meets-west combination of lacquered tables, upholstered furniture and opulent green-tea-scented lobbies.

HO LEE FOOK

HO LEE FOOK

LANDMARK MANDARIN ORIENTAL 15 Queen’s Rd, Central Mandarinoriental.com The rooms are beautifully designed by Joyce Wang, and include everything from a yoga mat to a refillable drink bottle.

OVOLO CENTRAL 2 Arbuthnot Rd, Central Ovolohotels.com.hk You can’t beat the location of this hotel, close to the Star Ferry and the MTR. The rooms are compact, but cleverly designed.

OVOLO SOUTHSIDE 64 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Southside Ovolohotels.com.hk This is a cool warehouse conversion hotel – Hong Kong’s first – with a rooftop bar, 24-hour gym and art-filled corridors. Oh, and book direct to get free minibar snacks!

explore VICTORIA PEAK Hong Kong Island Thepeak.com.hk Put this at the top of your tourist list; it’s where you’ll get the best views of the city.

Catch the Peak Tram from Central or take a short taxi or bus trip up the hill.

CHOI HUNG ESTATE Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon One of the oldest – and most colourful – public housing estates in Hong Kong, this spot is a must-visit for any selfie-takers.

NECTA R

CHOI H U NG ESTAT E

Eat like a local The food at Nectar (above) is all vegan and tastes incredible, while Ho Lee Fook (top) offers some of the best modern Chinese food in Hong Kong.

LANTAU PEAK Lantau Island Discoverhongkong.com Follow the signs and go on the two-hour hike from Ngong Ping, starting at 4am to catch the sunrise from the top. A real living

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LADIES MARKET

M A NDA RIN ORIEN TA L

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HONG KONG STREETSCAPE

VICTORIA HARBOUR

1 Adidas Originals NMD_R1 sneakers, $199.99, Hype DC. 2 Stainless Steel Double Wall drink bottle in Rose Gold, $6.97, Officeworks. 3 Waterresistant backpack in Red, $150, Rains. 4 Cut-off Drawstring sweatshirt in Coffee, $360, Bassike. 5 Off White ‘Quote’ passport holder, $335, End.

photography irwin chan (ladies markets and streetscape); joyce wang (landmark mandarin oriental); courtesy of hong kong tourism board, mandarin oriental and nectar

shop it

travel

eating

LANDMARK M A NDA RIN ORIEN TA L

MOTT 32 Standard Chartered Bank Building, 4-4a Des Voeux Rd, Central Mott32.com Delectable dumplings and a modern take on Cantonese food set in a space that’s been so beautifully designed, it’s part of the experience. Try the baked pork buns.

MAN WAH

TIM HO WAN 9-11 Fuk Wing St, Sham Sui Po Timhowan.com The most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant in the world. There are venues all over Hong Kong, but check out Sham Shui Po for the award-winning dim sum.

MAN WAH 5 Connaught Rd, Central Mandarinoriental.com This super-fancy Cantonese restaurant, ideal for special occasions, has some of the best views of Victoria Harbour.

HO LEE FOOK 3-5 Elgin St, Soho Holeefook.com.hk A modern take on traditional Chinese food, set in a venue inspired by the late-night Chinatown hangouts of 1960s New York.

NECTAR 108 Hollywood Rd, Sheung Wan Nectarexperience.co A brand-new restaurant for the healthconscious: it’s vegan fine dining at its best.

Plus, the decor is gorgeous – pared-back, earthy and full of tactile materials.

NECTA R

Please Don’t Tell 15 Queen’s Rd, Central Mandarinoriental.com Amazing cocktails, hotdogs and tater tots – yes, tater tots – behind a secret entrance in the Landmark Mandarin Oriental lobby. R real living

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Thinking furniture?

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Your work/life balance works a whole lot be er if you have a designated space. At Officeworks we have clever home workspace solutions, from li le corner nooks to complete room layouts. Plus our great range of furniture styles will perfectly suit your home décor.

Thinking furniture? Think Officeworks.

Copenhagen high-back chair (also available in grey or blue) $169. OTCOPENPK .

Svenborg corner workstation, $169 OTSVENCWKO.

a real living PROMO T ION

BRIGHT FUTURE Minds are switched on when a study area is designed with an equal balance of personality and storage IN FOCUS Newton hutch desk in White, $129, and Einstein adjustable chair in Blue, $99. Desk also available in Oak; chair also available in Purple.

A study space doesn’t need to be big to be effective. But it does need to be well thought out. If homework is being done mostly in the evenings, ensure there’s adequate lighting, while being close to a window is ideal if they’re using the study on weekends. When choosing a chair, ensure your child’s feet firmly touch the floor and the wheels can slide beneath the desk.

Most importantly, kids should be involved in the design and encouraged to express themselves. Don’t forget accessories like bookends, pinboards and stationery to add colour and fun.

Style tip Concealed storage is a godsend for keeping things tidy.

THINKING FURNITURE ? THINK

PRODUCED BY STORY

This Newton hutch’s scratchresistant finish will help keep it looking fresher for longer.

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WORK IT! Want to know how real living editor Elle Lovelock would style her home office?

Here, she pulls together a chic workspace with the latest buys from Officeworks

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My ideal home office is monochromatic with colourful accents. This streamlined desk is a winner because it works with the classic look I’m creating. Plus, the drawers provide space-saving storage and will keep my desktop clutter-free.

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When it comes to equipment, my tech must-haves include a laptop, printer and speaker (I like to have music playing while I work). This printer is a great all-rounder because it scans and copies documents from my computer and my smartphone.

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ORGANISE & D I S P L AY

photography maree homer (elle)

show business In keeping with the monochromatic scheme I’ve chosen desktop accessories in neutral colours and added personality with pink accents. I rely on two types of storage – boxes and folders that can be stacked or filed away, plus racks and stationery holders to keep essentials close by. And because I’m always jotting ideas down on paper, I need spare notebooks and an on-the-go pencil case. R 1 6-cube bookcase in White, $33.97. 2 Otto square thumb tacks in Gold, $2.92 for 12. 3 Brand X pressboard spiral 160-page notebook in Black, $2.99 for A5.

4 Brand X 60-page notebook in Kraft, $1.99 for A5. 5 Brand X spiral agenda 96-page notebook in Kraft, $2.49 for A5. 6 Brand X ruled 60-page notebook in Kraft, $1.99 for A5. 7 Poster frame in White, $45 for B1. 8 Europa task lamp in Black, $35. 9 Brand X desk riser in Acrylic Clear, $18.95 for large. 10 Brand X 3-compartment desk tidy in Acrylic Clear, $12.99. 11 Otto ‘Brights’ mini organiser tray in Grey, $6.97. 12 J.Burrows ‘Scarborough’ twin cab desk, $299.

13 J.Burrows 50mm paper clips in Gold, $2.37 for 70. 14 Brand X document box in Black, $12.99 for A4. 15 Brand X magazine file in Kraft, $9.95. 16 Keji plastic frame corkboard (75cm x 50cm), $19.97. 17 Brand X document tray in Black, $9.95. 18 Brand X document box in Kraft, $18.99. 19 Gold frame magnetic planner whiteboard (60cm x 45cm), $12.97. 20 HP ‘DeskJet’ inkjet MFC printer 2620, $39. 21 Ultimate Ears ‘Wonderboom 2’ portable speaker in Just Peach, $128. 22 J.Burrows 25mm foldback clips in Gold, $1.99 for 6. 23 Marbig ‘Wire Instyle’ magazine rack in Black, $20.86. 24 Otto ‘Copenhagen’ high-back chair in Dark Grey, $169. 25 Brand X 13-pocket expanding file in Black, $9.99 for A4. 26 Otto ‘Brights’ PVC tubular pencil case in Pink, $5.95. 27 Otto ‘Mirror’ pen cup in Gold, $7.95. 28 Otto ‘MDF’ pen cup in Black, $11.95. All available at Officeworks; officeworks.com.au

workspace T HINK ING F UR NI T URE ? T HINK

BIG IDEAS FOR SMALL SPACES A± FOR HOMEWORK ELLE LOVELOCK’S DREAM OFFICE IN A S S O CI AT IO N W I T H

Whether you work, study or create at home, it makes sense to have a great space to do it in. I’m planning my own home office right now and it’s been great fun deciding on which style is “me” and ticking off what I need. While I’ll always go for aesthetics first (I’m a sucker for pretty things!), practicality and quality are just as important, which is why I go to Officeworks. The range is incredible, from the furniture and tech to the fun accessories. And so well-priced, too. So if you’re looking to do the same, check out the following pages – I promise you’ll find something to inspire your own project.

For those long days at the desk, the Copenhagen chair has a high backrest to keep you comfortable while sitting.

THINKING FURNITURE ? THINK

a real living PROMO T ION

CREATIVE EDGE Working at home can be as comfortable or as polished as you like. Style a space where you’re the boss STYLE STATEMENT Svenborg corner workstation in Black and Oak, $169, and Copenhagen high-back chair in Light Pink, $169.

Chair also available in Blue and Dark Grey.

Say hello to a work zone that makes you want to sit down every single day.

Getting creative with how you set up your room can make a big difference to your motivation – and your results.

Aim for a desk set-up that offers a printer within reach, a place for filing and reference materials, as well as room to spread out. Then personalise the space by adding some greenery, accessories collected from your travels or a favourite artwork or print.

Style tip A rug under the desk can help soften your work zone, and tie it in with the rest of your interiors.

V I S I T O F F I C E W O R K S . C O M . A U / L O O K B O O K F O R M O R E W O R K S PA C E I N S P I R AT I O N

a real living PROMO T ION

PASSION PROJECT Organisation and practicality are key if you’re designing a workspace geared around a hobby or passion

The powder-coated steel of the Stockholm range helps create a semi-industrial feel.

Being creative isn’t just limited to a hobby, side hustle or passion. It can all start with designing a place to help facilitate and inspire your projects. Whether it’s a dedicated office, a converted garage space or attic, there’s no limit to how you set yourself up. If your passion involves crafting, reference books, specialised equipment or supplies, dedicated organisation units will help keep everything within easy reach, and increase productivity.

Style tip Neutral finishes are unobtrusive and can help keep your focus on creative output.

THINKING FURNITURE ? THINK

INSPIRED DESIGN Stockholm desk in Oak finish, $179, high-back chair in Dark Grey, $199, and 8-cube bookcase in Oak, $99. Desk and bookcase also available in a Walnut finish; chair also available in Light Pink, Light Green or Blue with white frame.

SPACE AGE Children need their own place of retreat that can adapt with their growing personalities and changing needs NEW VISION Koge hutch desk in Oak and White, $79, and Sheffield student chair in Purple, $75. Chair also available in Dark Grey, Light Pink and Blue.

While homework isn’t always done at a desk, creating a dedicated place to sit and work certainly comes in handy. And listen up, parents: kids will be much more likely to use this space if you let them decorate it the way they want. Providing a budget for accessories and stationery can help get them started and invested in the space. Pop in a fun chair to increase desk time and achieve A+ results.

Style tip Small rooms will benefit from light colours and finishes.

The Koge desk is perfect for petite spaces and small projects.

V I S I T O F F I C E W O R K S . C O M . A U / L O O K B O O K F O R M O R E W O R K S PA C E I N S P I R AT I O N

LIVING ZONE Nordborg singledrawer desk in Oak/ Black, $99, Malmo medium-back chair in Dark Grey, $99.

Chair also available in Light Green, Blue and Light Pink.

SMART SPACE Living zones are the perfect home for an office nook. Look for simple, functional furniture that will encourage ease of use

The Nordborg desk’s magnetic back panel helps keep things organised and tidy.

A workspace doesn’t always warrant a separate room. If you’re just using it for regular life admin and some social networking, an office nook can provide the perfect solution.

Look for a spot in the room that’s out of the main thoroughfare, and be creative with your styling.

Forget a traditional office desk – a console-style approach will blend in more seamlessly with your living room. If (like most of us) you have a tendency to accrue paperwork, keep a dedicated spot on the desk to consolidate. An adjustable chair will ensure that your clever little office nook looks stylish and professional within your living space.

Style tip Keep to a monochrome theme on the desk to simplify the space and reduce clutter.

THINKING FURNITURE ? THINK