Real Living Magazine

Here’s how to makeover every room in your home without a renovation

Olivia Clarke — Thu, 30 May 2024 05:27:15 +0000

Name a person who wouldn’t love to give their home a makeover. While we might dream about a complete overhaul, we may not have the budget to do this in one go. If your home is looking a little tired, however, there are some simple changes that can make all the difference — here’s how to update your home without a renovation.

Recent research from hipages found that nearly half (43%) of Aussie homeowners have experienced a renovation disaster in the last 12 months, which is equivalent to over 4.2 million households. From disasters during painting (43%) landscaping and gardening (33%) and plumbing-related jobs, and with the average cost of fixing our DIY mistakes around $500, it’s understandable why some would prefer a quick refresh over a full renovation.

There are loads of fun decorating projects you can do, from a simple cushion swap to replacing kitchen benchtops. Whatever room you want to make over, from your kitchen benchtops to your bathroom tiles, bring new life to your home with these easy, wallet-friendly updates.

Refresh your living room

Being one of the more high-traffic rooms in the home, it’s only natural that furniture would get a little worn. Marks on sofas and greying of light-coloured upholstery can often be fixed with a professional clean. Do an internet search for a company that services your area. Frayed fabrics and scratched leather may be unsalvageable, in which case you have two options: buy a new piece of furniture or refresh your old sofa with a slipcover. Otherwise, have a slipcover custom made by a furniture upholsterer – it will still cost a few hundred dollars, but what’s that in comparison to thousands for a new sofa?

A lovely living opens out to the petite yet lush courtyard in this heritage home in Sydney..

(Photography: Anson Smart | Styling: Kate Lincoln | Story: Inside Out)

Affordable kitchen updates

One of the biggest impacts you can make to update your home without a renovation is to update the cabinet doors. A fresh coat of paint may be all they need. Use sample pots to try colours before committing and make sure you prime the doors properly.

Another option is to replace the doors all together. Updating cabinet handles, too, will make a big improvement and can be done in an hour.If you’re happy with your cabinets, maybe your benchtops need attention. How about a gleaming new slab of marble? Or perhaps you prefer butcher’s-block wood. If replacing the benchtop really isn’t an option, you could always paint over it.

Renters, don’t despair – you can disguise the benchtop with huge breadboard. Have one custom made in wood or stone. Finally, finish off your kitchen with new tapware.

Materials, such as white cabinetry and marble, were chosen to reflect light in this restored period home.

(Photography: Tom Ferguson | Story: Australian House & Garden)

Dining room decor

A dining room facelift is more about the decorative than anything structural so if you move, you can take all the changes with you. The easiest update is with homewares – revamp your table with new tableware and table linen. Flowers, too, will do the trick.

Lighting is a key element in the dining room, but is often overlooked. It creates mood and ambiance – or a good spot for homework! A dramatic pendant light (or a cluster) over the table will create a focal point in the room.

Placing a rug under the table demarcates the dining zone. The dining room table and wooden curve chairs in Tash Sefton’s stylish family home is “a beautiful design and so comfortable”.

(Photography: Maree Homer)

Beautiful bedroom ideas

The quickest and easiest way to update your home without a renovation is with fresh bedlinen. If you’re sick of what you have, treat yourself to a new set. Choose something that you can work back with what you’ve got to create different looks.

Another big impact you can make in the bedroom is with rugs. A large area rug can be placed in the middle of the room or under the bed – position it three-quarters under the bed and one-quarter sticking out the foot-end of the bed. For smaller pops of colour or pattern, place floormats or runners either side of the bed.

To create ambiance, change your lighting. If you have high ceilings, hang a beautiful pendant or chandelier. If your ceilings are low, focus on your bedside lamps. A change of shade might be all that’s required.

The finishing touches on a room are often the most fun to do, and in the case of the bedroom this means accessories. You don’t have to undertake a major overhaul – rearrange a vignette on your dresser, change the cushions and throw on the bed or put new photos in your frames. After all, some of the best facelifts are the most subtle.

Fabric colours and textures give a light & natural feel to the bedroom in this minimalist Mediterranean-inspired abode.

(Photography: The Palm Co.)

Budget bathroom updates

Lastly, pay some attention to the bathroom. Tiles are easy to transform with tile paint. As with the kitchen, replace vanity benchtops or update the tapware. Clear out the clutter in your medicine cabinet (be ruthless!) and put out a fresh set of fluffy towels – and a bathrobe to match.

A good scrub may suffice, but go a step further and regrout tiles for an as-new look – it’s easier than you think.

Coloured tiles add interest to the muted scheme, while the oak vanity and Topaz sustainable timber stool contribute texture in the bathroom of this interior designer’s beautifully minimal Victorian terrace.

(Photography: Dave Wheeler | Styling: Lisa Burden)

8 easy updates that will make an old home look new

Our favourite affordable furniture and homewares brands

01:23

25 tips for decorating on a shoestring budget

The post Here’s how to makeover every room in your home without a renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

Lana Taylor of Three Birds Renovations’ modern Mediterranean-style home

Olivia Clarke — Mon, 27 May 2024 07:46:46 +0000

Lana Taylor is not Greek, nor has she ever visited Greece, but that didn’t stop her renovating her home in a Modern Mediterranean style – inspired by the Cyclades Islands of Santorini and Mykonos. “You don’t need to have been there to be inspired by a place or location,” she says, “there was enough inspiration on the internet from people that had been for me to know how it made me feel – and that I loved it.”

“I love that the front-door frame was an original feature in the house. In fact, I asked our social media audience during the reno if I should keep it and everyone said ‘definitely!’,” Lana says. (Photography: Chris Warnes)

Photography: Chris Warnes

Lana and her husband Jason have been living in their Northbridge home on Sydney’s North Shore for 15 years and had been wanting to renovate well before she started Three Birds Renovations. The problem was, like many of us, she didn’t know what she wanted. “Before we started [Three Birds] I had no sense of personal style. Nothing around my house matched and everything looked ridiculous. My home didn’t reflect who I was.”

Lana and her fellow Birds Erin and Bonnie are thrilled to have completed another great renovation. To keep the look light and bright, Lana’s kitchen features a huge island bench in Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo and cabinetry in Dulux Lexicon Half by Carrera By Design. (Photography: Chris Warnes).

“The indoor/outdoor feel was non negotiable – we’ve had it in all our houses. It’s one of my favourite places in the house. I love to sit here and look into the kitchen, into the staircase, everywhere,” Lana says. (Photography: Chris Warnes)

Photography: Chris Warnes

But, multiple renovations later, and with the help of business partners Bonnie and Erin, things became a little clearer. “After our third house a light bulb went off. I looked at the style of house I was living in, realised it was Mediterranean, and more so that I absolutely loved the pink bougainvillea at the front. It dawned on me that it had to be a Mediterranean style home transformation to a modern form.” And so began the renovation of Lana’s forever home in a whirlwind transformation.

Lana loves her sofa, coffee table and rug from James Lane. “The colour palette is very neutral but with warm pops of biscuit-coloured cushions and homewares that tie into the timber accents around the room,” she says. (Photography: Chris Warnes)

Photography: Chris Warnes

Lana has learned from her previous renovations that tradespeople have seen thousands of houses, and witnessed what works and what doesn’t – so, their feedback can be gold. “I didn’t plan to extend the house, but when I got an air-conditioning quote, the tradesman asked if I was considering it,” Lana says. “He said I was crazy not to spend the extra money to extend in terms of the value it would add to my life, and the home. He could immediately see what I couldn’t – that the living space needed to be larger,” she adds. “I may have done five houses, but he’d seen hundreds of houses in the area. After he put the idea in my head I realised he was right, so I actioned it.” It pays to listen to the experts.

“We recently restyled my daughter’s bedroom, as she’s now a teenager, so we chose to bring in lots of colour and pattern to complement all the rattan.” (Photography: Chris Warnes)

Photography: Chris Warnes

While the living room was extended, the bedrooms were reduced. After all, this is Lana’s forever home, so she wanted to customise it to suit her family, not what someone else might like. “We have two kids, we’re not having any more and we don’t love having house guests – so we didn’t need a guest room collecting dust and taking up valuable floor space,” Lana says. “We made the conscious choice to only have three bedrooms, instead of the four we originally had. We used the other space for more practical elements in the house like my beautiful open-plan office.”

“These tiles are all individual – they don’t come on a mat or anything. We created a random pattern and got our tiler to replicate it,” Lana says. (Photography: Maree Homer)

When it came to the finer details of the renovation, Lana turned to her friends for inspiration – and a reality check! “I had my heart set on floor-to-ceiling mirrors in my room, as I thought it would open up the space and bring the outdoors in. I was so set on it that Bonnie had to stage an intervention! She said it was too modern and flashy and didn’t suit the Mediterranean look. I was so annoyed at the time, but I knew that it didn’t suit what I was trying to achieve so I had to let it go. Now, I have pure white wall with a beautiful piece of art on it and it’s just perfection.”

Photography: Chris Warnes

01:47

An inspired home makeover by Three Birds Renovations with “modern Mallorca” vibes

A relaxed coastal home by Three Birds’ Renovations

Inside a Three Birds’ modern family farmhouse with rural-charm

The post Lana Taylor of Three Birds Renovations’ modern Mediterranean-style home appeared first on Homes To Love.

The 18 best scented candles to buy right now

Janet Guan — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 02:23:16 +0000

Like perfume, choosing a scented candle for your home can be quite a personal decision. While they’re fabulous gifts, choosing a fragrant candle for someone else can be a minefield. Certain aromas entice some people, but others may be put off their breakfast with one whiff.

Narrowing it down to ‘floral’, ‘fruity’, ‘spicy’ or ‘woody’ is a good start, so we selected the loveliest scented candles on the market for each category to help you find the perfect one! Or two or three… Why limit yourself?

The best floral-scented candles

Bramble scented candle

$49.95, Öde Studio

Meet your perfect spring scent – Bramble by Öde Studio. With top notes of pine, mid notes of blackberry, rose, and jasmine, and base notes of guaiac wood and patchouli, this unique blend will transport you to a warm spring evening in a flower field. Öde Studio is Australian same-day delivery gifting and florist service Daily Blooms’ very own candle label because, after all, flowers and candles are a gifting match made in heaven. Founder Courtney Ray says that extending “the powerful emotional connection that scents can play on our lives” from flowers to candles, made perfect sense from both a business and sentimental perspective.

Key fragrance notes:

Top note: pine
Mid notes: blackberry, rose, and jasmine
Base notes: guaiac wood and patchouli

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Peony & Blush Suede home candle

$116, Jo Malone

Anglophiles will love this Jo Malone candle, which evokes peonies in full bloom and is actually made in the English countryside. It burns for about 45 hours, so it’s worth every penny.

Key fragrance notes:

Peony
Rose
Patchouli
Red apple
Musk

Also available at:

$116, Myer

Shop Now

Greg Natale 1979 Gardenia Novus candle

$70 (30% off at checkout), THE ICONIC

Interior designer extraordinaire Greg Natale knows how to create ambience in a home, so creating fragrant candles wasn’t exactly a stretch. The 1979: Gardenia Novus candle features top notes of ozone, sweet fruit, green and aldehydic; middle notes of honeysuckle, jasmine, gardenia and rose; with base notes of musk, berry and wood.

Key fragrance notes:

Top notes: ozone, sweet fruit, green, aldehydic
Mid notes: honeysuckle, jasmine, gardenia, rose
Base notes: musk, berry, wood

Shop Now

Country Style White Lily & Bamboo candle

$69.95. Hardtofind

Transport yourself to the countryside with the aroma of white lily flowers plus the earthy notes of bamboo. Made with essential oils, soy and coconut wax, and featuring four wicks, this 600-gram candle will last you 40 hours of burn time. Such good value.

Key fragrance notes:

White lily
Bamboo

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Collette Dinnigan Aventino di Roma candle

$34.50 (usually $69), Myer

Fashion icon Collette Dinnigan has magicked up this divine candle, which aims to “capture all the light citrus fragrances of the gardens, and the pine trees, that surround the ancient hills of Rome.” We can smell it already.

Key fragrance notes:

Citrus gardens
Pine trees
Apple
Nutmeg
Jasmine
Cedarwood
Tobacco
Vetiver
Black pepper

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Maison Balzac La Rose candle large

$79, Adore Beauty

Homewares champion Maison Balzac’s La Rose candle is “an ode to the rose in all its forms: wild on a garden hedge, freshly cut in tall glass vases, and in heaped mounds of delicate dry petals”. With up to 70 hours of burn time, you’ll enjoy it for a long time.

Key fragrance notes:

Tea rose
Violet leaf
Rose geranium
Musk

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The best woody-scented candles

Plume scented candle

$49.95, Ode Studio

Smoky and woody. Plume by Ode Studio has top notes of Bergamot and lemon zest, mid notes of tobacco leaves and plum, and base notes of black sandalwood and smoke. It has a 40-hour burn time and is designed and hand-poured in Melbourne.

Key fragrance notes:

Top notes: bergamot, lemon zest
Mid notes: Tobacco leaves, plum
Base notes: Black sandalwood, smoke

Shop Now

Tom Ford Ébène Fumé candle

$200, David Jones

“I wanted a scent that captured a meditative feeling,” Tom Ford has said. “Ébène Fumé has an almost spiritual sensuality that uplifts your mood — which might be the most seductive indulgence of all.” Capturing smoke, black pepper, leather and ebony wood, this special candle will bring you down to Earth.

Key fragrance notes:

Palo Santo wood accord
Ebony wood accord
Rose

Also available at:

$200, Myer

Shop Now

Palm Beach Collection Clove & Sandalwood

$44.95 (30% off at checkout), THE ICONIC

This sexy candle oozes jasmine, cyclamen, and rosewood notes combined with base notes of cedarwood, musk, wood and sandalwood. Made in Australia, Palm Beach scented candles make great gifts for loved ones.

Key fragrance notes:

Heart: jasmine, cyclamen, rosewood
Base: cedarwood, musk, wood, sandalwood

Also available at:

$44.95, Myer

Shop Now

The best fruity-scented candles

Ecoya Raspberry & Hibiscus candle

$9.97 (usually $54.95), Freedom

Embodying a smoothie or your childhood body spray is this totally nostalgic candle from Ecoya, which brings together the sweet scent of raspberry and the uplifting notes of hibiscus.

Key fragrance notes:

Top notes: citrus, bergamot, lemon, orange, aldehyde, vegetal
Mid notes: fruit, strawberry, raspberry, floral, hibiscus accord, jasmine
Base notes: vanilla bean, maltol

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Ecoya Raspberry & Hibiscus candle

$9.97 (usually $54.95), Freedom

Embodying a smoothie or your childhood body spray is this totally nostalgic candle from Ecoya, which brings together the sweet scent of raspberry and the uplifting notes of hibiscus.

Key fragrance notes:

Top notes: citrus, bergamot, lemon, orange, aldehyde, vegetal
Mid notes: fruit, strawberry, raspberry, floral, hibiscus accord, jasmine
Base notes: vanilla bean, maltol

Shop Now

Ripe strawberries scented soy candle

$59.95, Hardtofind

This candle is cute-as-a-button — and smells like how strawberries and cream taste. Guaranteed to be appreciated by the mum/aunty/sister who has everything (we bet she doesn’t have this).

Key fragrance notes:

Strawberries and cream

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Green Tomato Vine Townhouse candle

$208, Jo Malone

Jo Malone has captured the fragrance of green tomato vines warmed by the afternoon sun in this adorable townhouse-design candle. Conjuring the vibes of summer dinner parties in Sicilian gardens. Ripe for the picking!

Key fragrance notes:

Tomato vines

Also available at:

$208, David Jones

Shop Now

Peppermint Grove Burnt Fig & Pear candle (large)

$44.95, THE ICONIC

A warm combination of fig and pear, this deliciously fruity candle from Peppermint Grove is hand-poured to perfection. Plus, it’s housed in a gorgeous highly polished glass vessel that is perfect to be repurposed after.

Key fragrance notes:

Fig
Clove
Ylang ylang flower
Vanilla
Cedarwood
Warm amber

Also available at:

$44.95, Temple & Webster
$44.95, Myer

Shop Now

The best spicy-scented candles

Narcissus & Patchouli candle

$39.95, Circa

This sultry scent is deepened by orange blossom, energised by mint and cardamom and given gravitas by cedar and musk. You’ll feel like you’re on holiday somewhere exotic.

Key fragrance notes:

Top notes: bergamot, mint, orange flower
Mid notes: cardamom, lavender, cumin
Base notes: cedar, musk, tonka

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Parakeets & Pearls

$60, Ashley & Co

Hand-poured in New Zealand using 100 per cent natural wax, the ‘old world’ scent of this candle mashes green tea, white lily, orange rind, lime, cardamon and Cypriol spice together to perfection. No parakeets were harmed in the making of this candle.

Key fragrance notes:

Green tea
White lily
Orange rind
Lime
Cardamon
Cypriol spice

Shop Now

Hunter Candles No. 4 Smoked Hot Chilli

$59, Hardtofind

For those with adventurous tastes, this bold Hunter candle is inspired by the art of smoking food—i.e., stoking wood chips and faithfully guarding the flames. The spicy blend of “sweet charred capsicum and smoky paprika over the sharpness of whole chillies” isn’t something you see (or smell) in a candle every day.

Key fragrance notes:

Charred sweet capsicum
Smoky paprika
Sharp chillies

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Aesop Aganice Aromatique candle

$135, Adore Beauty

Evoking the ambience of Tangier with cardamom, mimosa, and discreet notes of tobacco, this Aesop candle will take you far away from your work, kids, or laundry basket.

Key fragrance notes:

Spicy cardamom
Floral, fresh mimosa
Tobacco

Shop Now

Shop more home fragrance and scented candles

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7 best oil diffusers that double as décor

10 of the most beautiful candles that will make your house look as good as it smells

The post The 18 best scented candles to buy right now appeared first on Homes To Love.

A buyer’s guide to the best gas heaters, electric heaters, reverse cycle aircons and fireplaces

Danielle Grover — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 03:59:35 +0000

With cooler weather fast approaching, it’s time to bring out the hot chocolate and woollen socks and start looking forward to cosy nights in. As our lifestyles naturally change with the seasons, so too should our homes.

Blockout curtains, plush-pile rugs and extra throws are a great place to start when preparing your home for winter, but to make your home as warm and inviting as possible and to ward off those winter blues, a heater is the perfect solution. But with so many options available – gas, bioethanol, wood – how do you know what’s right for you and your home? Read on for our guide to heating, plus a selection of the hottest designs on the market.

The best heaters, aircons and fireplaces 2024

Best for large spaces: natural gas heaters

Fast, convenient and controlled, a gas heater is best for busy families or those who have larger spaces as it can be switched on with the touch of a button. And with the help of new technology, the flame gas heaters produce is more realistic than ever. Gas fireplaces can also be customised depending on your style preference. Choose from pebbles, logs, driftwood or coals.

Pros: Efficient; good value for money.
Cons: Produce small amounts of carbon monoxide and water vapour that can lead to moisture problems such as condensation and mould.

Gas fireplaces require less care, maintenance and cleaning than wood heaters, however, they are more expensive to run. Natural gas or propane (LPG) heaters produce small amounts of carbon monoxide and water vapour that can lead to moisture problems such as condensation and mould if they’re not properly serviced.

It’s recommended that gas heaters are serviced annually by a qualified specialist. This will help extend the life of the heater and prevent house fires and toxic fumes. Maintenance should include cleaning the pilot and fan, checking the burner pressure and overall operation to ensure there are no gas leaks.
Good to know

Our top picks for natural gas heaters

Rinnai Avenger natural gas heater

$1769, (usually $2439) Appliances Online

This classically designed convector natural gas heater from Rinnai is ideal for large open areas in medium-sized households. Featuring dual programable timers, a remote control and coming with a five-year warranty, this energy-efficient heater will warm up even the frostiest of Tassie homes.

Key features:

Low emissions technology
Dual programmable timers
Remote control

Shop Now

Omega Altise unflued natural gas convector heater

$1148 (usually $1299), Appliances Online

Blowing warm air to every corner of the room, this sleek silver heater is powerful and safe in its heating abilities. Featuring a 24-hour timer, LED digital display, flame failure shut-off of gas and a safety tip-over switch, you can feel at ease while staying toasty this winter.

Key features:

25MJ of power
Automatic safety switch off
Programmable timer

Shop Now

Best eco-friendly heaters: bioethanol fireplaces

For the eco-conscious, bioethanol is a good alternative to gas – it’s a renewable energy source that gives off a clean emission when burned. Bioethanol fireplaces emit heat that is similar to natural gas, but don’t give off fumes which means they are healthier and can be retrofitted as they don’t require a flue.

Pros: Bioethanol fireplaces don’t give off fumes; emit good heat (similar to natural gas); can be retrofitted as they don’t require a flue; modern designs look great.
Cons: Can be expensive to run – bioethanol costs about $3.85 per litre to run; five litres will last from seven to 20 hours, depending on if you run the heater on min or max.

Our top pick for bioethanol fireplaces

Ghost bioethanol fireplace

$2495, EcoSmart Fire

A bioethanol fireplace is a great way to bring the heat- and ambience- of real flames into your home. There’s no flue, so there’s no need for building work and no smoke! Bioethanol is a renewable energy source that gives off a clean emission when burned. This Ghost bioethanol fireplace is a luxe pick (firewood surround not included).

Key features:

Bioethanol fireplace
No flue needed

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Most economical: wood-burning fireplaces

A major selling point of wood heaters and fireplaces is that they create a lovely ambience and visual warmth. The crackle, glow and nostalgic scent you get from a wood heater simply can’t be replicated by gas alternatives.

Wood heaters can be an economical heating option if you have access to free firewood, with a slow-combustion design being the most efficient. The burn is much slower, which means they require less wood and can disperse heat evenly over a longer period of time. If you’re looking to create a statement, super-modern or retro-style freestanding or suspended fireplaces will add a stylish focal point to your living room while providing a dependable heat source.

Pros: Create ambience; can be economical if you have access to free firewood.
Cons: Installation can be expensive as you need to install a flue; smoke contributes to pollution; you need somewhere to store wood; they can be less energy-efficient than gas or electric heaters.

When maintaining your wood-burning fireplace, it’s vital to ensure maximum safety by regularly removing ashes from the base of the heater, and cleaning the flue to remove soot build-up. Do not burn treated timber as it contains chemicals that will let off toxic fumes, and do not stack firewood on top of, or directly next to, the fireplace, as residual heat can ignite the wood.

A ‘Pax Focus’ fireplace from Abbey Fireplaces steals this show in this living room. (Photo: Chris Warnes)

Best multipurpose heating: reverse-cycle Air Conditioners

Reverse-cycle air conditioners are a popular choice as they provide an easy-to-use and economical heating and cooling system for your home.

Pros: Cheaper to run than small electric heaters; great for heating large and open-plan spaces.
Cons: Expensive to buy and have installed.

Our top picks for reverse-cycle air conditioners

Panasonic C7 1kW H8.0kW reverse-cycle split system and air purifier

$2299, The Good Guys

If you’re short on floor space, an aircon unit like this reverse cycle system from Panasonic is a sweet solution. Blowing warm air in the winter, and cool air in the summer, this dual aircon and air purifier is a year-round staple in the home.

Key features:

7.1kW cooling capacity
Wifi enabled
Odour-removing function

Shop Now

Hisense C3.5kW reverse cycle split system

$999, The Good Guys

With an integrated air purification system using Hi-Nano Plasma ions, this Hisense aircon unit actively removes moulds, pollens and odours from the air while intelligently adjusting the temperature of the room to your liking. Compatible with Google Home, this reverse cycle split system is a snug yet sleek addition to any smart household.

Key features:

Inverter technology for smooth, consistent comfort
Ultra-quiet operation
Wifi connectivity

Shop Now

Best portable heaters: electric heaters

Pros: Portable; cheaper to buy; great for small spaces.
Cons: Can be expensive to run for long periods of time and won’t heat a large space.

Our top picks for electric heaters

Kambrook 2000W white ceramic tower heater

$179, The Good Guys

Featuring a timer and portable design, this white ceramic heater is a small but mighty addition to any area of the home during the chilly season.

Key features:

2000-watt heating power
Two heat settings
380mm tall with a 178mm width and depth

Shop Now

DeLonghi 2400W oil column heater with timer

$219, The Good Guys

This DeLonghi model features a portable design, three heat settings, a thermostat, a tip-over safety switch and a timer – meaning cultivating a snug space in your abode this winter is fuss-free.

Key features:

Slim, space-saving column design
2400W output and 3 heat settings
Thermal slots in the fins enhance heat distribution

Shop Now

The post A buyer’s guide to the best gas heaters, electric heaters, reverse cycle aircons and fireplaces appeared first on Homes To Love.

A characterful 1849 gaolers’ cottage in Darlinghurst gets a new lease of life

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 04:18:00 +0000

“I’ve really been drawn to inner-city terraces, I think they have so much more character and soul than a new-build apartment,” says Sam Eggleton, a health IT learning and development manager.

His inner-Sydney cottage certainly ticks the character box. Built around 1849, it was first used as accommodation for the wardens of the Darlinghurst Gaol, before becoming an active sex-worker premises during the area’s time as the city’s famous red light district.

Sam bought the heritage-listed building in February 2021 and has worked with and even reinstated some of the original features in a design he enthusiastically describes as a “modern Australian take on the American farmhouse“.

With neutral colours as his base, along with pops of colour and texture, Sam has created a space with a contemporary feel and a nod to its colourful heritage.

Arty entry: The matt-black front door makes the façade pop (for a similar colour, try Dulux Night Sky). Sam kept the original façade but replaced the opaque glazing above the door with clear glass to let the light in. The totem sculpture by The Visuals and the Flexure floor lamp from Few & Far make a striking entry.

ON THE MARKET

Completely unrecognisable from the last time it was for sale, this one-bedroom terrace in a row of heritage-listed homes is back on the market.

Advertised as embodying “a modern Australian take on the European farmhouse” it now basks in plenty of natural light, has restored fireplaces, air-conditioning and a king-sized bedroom with a cathedral ceiling.

Listed by Alexander Babukhin and Josh Fleming from BresicWhitney, you can see the full listing and book an inspection here.

Light and bright: Owner-renovator Sam sits on the stairs, which are painted Dulux White on White and lead up to the house’s loft-style bedroom. The Pepé side table from Sarah Ellison brings colour and texture to the now-light-filled open-plan living and dining area. It sits alongside the Zaza sofa from King and the cushions from Papaya. The house Sam’s dubbed ‘Convict Cottage’ is also home to two-year-old rescue cat, Taco.

An owner-led renovation

Sam’s self-described ‘passion project’ started just before the 2021 Sydney lockdown, with some initial painting and tiling leading him to realise the potential for it to be much more than just a freshen up.

After many hours spent scrolling Pinterest and putting pencil to grid paper, Sam led his own design for a full cosmetic renovation of the cottage. It was a productive lockdown, with the whole renovation taking nine weeks, ending around the same time as the restrictions were eased.

Sam loves to entertain, so a space where he could cook while still being part of the action was a key part of the renovation. His dining table and chairs, the Good One outdoor table in Pale Eucalypt from Tait and chairs from Hay, are in the courtyard with greenery from Sydney’s Plant Market. The Pièrre stool from Sarah Ellison seats Sam at his versatile kitchen bench, which is used both for dining and as a workspace.

Compact unit: The kitchen is a modern take on the Shaker profile. Fineform Joinery crafted a custom 30mm Shaker design for the whole workspace for Sam. The joinery was painted Dulux White on White with Urbane handles in Matt White from Castella. The benchtops are Caesarstone Pure White and the splashback is Zellige tiles in Lily from Di Lorenzo. The kitchen appliances are from Smeg.

Restoring the traditional features of the home

Many of the original features on the ground floor had been tiled over, along with the fireplace, which had been boarded up. Sam chose to reinstate the fireplace using traditional materials like sandstone. “Picking some really traditional materials and using them in a tonal way makes it feel contemporary, not old or traditional,” says Sam.

With the heritage listing came Sam’s biggest challenge: working with a small area. He was unable to expand on the framework or make structural changes. “Smart choices had to be made to expand on the space, like having a European laundry, integrated fridges, a pull-out pantry and overhead storage cabinets in the bathroom,” he explains.

“I really had to make the most of every inch of the house to ensure I got the best use out of the space.” But the small area also had benefits such as allowing Sam to include high-end furnishings. “You can pack in a punch if you are working with a small footprint,” he says. “Big is not always better as you can sometimes not have the budget to invest in high-quality finishes.”

Cosy nook: The cobalt sculpture on the wall is from The Visuals. The Frank armchair is by McMullin & Co. The Aerin ‘Corvo’ side table was sourced from Becker Minty.

Neutral ground: In the loft-style bedroom is an Erikson Spindle bed frame from Lounge Lovers with linen from Bed Threads. The Audrey bedside table and lamp are from McMullin & Co and the ‘Treble Soft Breeze’ artwork is by Chanel Sohier, from Palette by Jono Fleming.

3 ways to restore with respect

1 Do your research. Speak with your local council and professionals to understand what type of heritage listing you have.

2 Look into what local materials you can source and how you can reinstate any original features that may have been removed.

3 Ensure you budget for extras. You never know what you’ll uncover with older, heritage-listed properties.

The bathroom features Elysian tapware in Brushed Copper and Resort White Matt Porcelain Mosaic Tile from National Tiles. The floors are Eureka Stone tiles in Bianco Naturale, from Di Lorenzo.

The Celine semi-inset basin in Matte White is from ABI Interiors, while the vanity and cabinet were made by Fineform Joinery. The towel is from Saardé.

style tip

A neutral base allows for pops of colour and texture via furnishings, ceramics and art.

Artist’s touch: Fineform Joinery shelves hold art by Daniel O’Toole from Curatorial + Co and ‘Tuscan Farmhouse’ by Rachel Stevens from Palette by Jono Fleming.

Textural triumph: Sam says his 90mm chevron engineered European oak flooring in Champagne from Sydney Art Flooring was his renovation’s must-have item and the biggest splurge he could make due the cottage’s tight floorplan. The Huggy Montauk Off White armchair by Sarah Ellison and vintage coffee table from Tow and Line add texture. The sculpture on the table, ‘Lilac Habitat I’, is by Natalie Rosin from Curatorial + Co. The Tig side table is from Jardan. Quaystone Heritage revitalised the fireplace with Bundanoon Sandstone in Fawn.

The post A characterful 1849 gaolers’ cottage in Darlinghurst gets a new lease of life appeared first on Homes To Love.

Inside DISSH’s new Bondi boutique, designed by Brahman Perera

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 00:57:05 +0000

Everywhere you go in Sydney, whether it’s work, a party, brunch with friends, or a spot of shopping, you’re bound to see someone wearing DISSH. But despite the popularity of the brand, for years Sydneysiders have only been able to shop DISSH online – until now.

Much to the delight of NSW-based DISSH devotees, the beloved Australian womenswear brand has just opened its first-ever bricks-and-mortar store in Sydney, right in the heart of Bondi Beach.

“We have a strong following and well-established customer base in Sydney, so we are excited to finally offer them an in-store experience. It’s been a long time coming,” says Lucy Henry-Hicks, founder and CEO of DISSH.

DISSH is located at the corner of Hall Street and Gould Street in Bondi, just a stone’s throw from the beach.

Located in the heart of Bondi’s shopping precinct on Hall St, the retail store, designed by acclaimed interior designer Brahman Perera, encapsulates DISSH’s feminine, pared-back style.

“Any physical retail space has to seek inspiration from the brand it houses and what they stand for. In terms of DISSH, a relaxed elegance interweaving femininity with a contemporary minimalism were the foundations for the concept,” says Perera.

The new space perfectly captures its brand aesthetic through ambiance, mood and layered contrasting textures.

Grand columns, stone, and mosaic inlay flooring are all softened by a feminine palette.

The fresh, inviting space features feminine detailing of soft, flowing and pleated fabrics, travertine, mixed metals and warm lighting against a muted colour palette.

A large delicate pendant made from a fabric derived from banana fibre takes centre stage above the seating space, while the change rooms operate as a point of drama, with billowing ombre fabric that softens the linear and minimalist-leaning architecture of the space.

“Like the garments, the store needed to feel seasonless and stand the proverbial test of time. Classical techniques in architecture were considered: columns, stone, and mosaic inlay flooring, all casting a backdrop to a soft, feminine palette,” Perera explains.

A muted colour palette is brought to life with texture and statement fixtures.

Billowing ombre fabric curtains give the changerooms a cocooning feel.

From the building processes to the responsibly sourced materials and decor used, sustainability was a key influence in the store’s design. Most of the furniture in the store is either preloved, reclaimed or sourced from trusted partners and local artisans with a shared ethos, including Armadillo rugs, E Moderno and Oigall Project who work with reclaimed travertine.

And, although DISSH is born and bred in QLD, with stores all across the Sunshine State, excitingly the new Bondi space has been crowned DISSH’s flagship store in Australia and another Sydney store located in Warringah Mall is set to open its doors on December 16.

For more information, visit dissh.com.au

The post Inside DISSH’s new Bondi boutique, designed by Brahman Perera appeared first on Homes To Love.

This one-of-a-kind home looks like something straight out of Middle Earth

Utkarsh — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:56:00 +0000

Bilbo Baggins or Fred Flintstone would feel right at home in this fabulous flight of fancy on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, which interior designer Nancy Renzi has returned to its retro glory.

Designed by architect David Hollander in 1968, the organic house, with its sweeping cement curves nestled under a canopy of gumtrees, sits like massive boulders on a hillside. And walking through the front door is like entering a cosy burrow, with its winding walls that seem to embrace you, its skylights letting in shafts of daylight and planter boxes filling the spaces with greenery – but it’s a very stylish burrow at that.

Keen for a home totally out of the box, Nancy Renzi of Renzi Design had been eyeing up another Hollander creation when this four-bedroom, three-level beauty arrived on the market. Unlike that other house, it wouldn’t need structural work to turn it into a home for her and twin sons, Miles and Charley, but instead a modest makeover to return it to its prime, when it had been owned by Hollander himself.

ON THE MARKET

“Hollander House” recently went back on the market. The striking home is a sculptural masterpiece that cascades across three different levels, and ebs and flows through its bushland setting in an almost fluid manner.

The ferro-concrete structure features a hand-shaped interior and exterior, and truly ignites the imagination and a sense of whimsy. A few modern additions include a whole-house water filter system including an ozone purifier, and an EV car charger in the carport.

As such a unique property, it’s no surprise that it quickly captured the heart of a new buyer, who successfully bid $2,582,000 at the auction on November 29, 2023. See the full listing here.

The unusual house embraces its natural bush environment on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Nancy installed blackbutt decking to make the most of the outside spaces. Driade “Clover” chairs by Ron Arad bring a quirky vibe to one of several outdoor zones, as do the Grow (mode) LED light-up plant pots from Mode Solutions.

A 1969 Curtis Jeré installation hugs the fireplace and echoes the original front door, which was repainted in Porter’s Paints “Rich Copper”. Nancy restored copper fittings throughout the home, which previous owners had removed. A collection of genie bottles, from eBay, combine a sense of fantasy with 1970s pizzazz.

Miles relaxes in the sunken lounge, the central point of the home. The original 1971 Curtis Jeré wall installation is a perfect solution for the curved wall in this room.

The flowing and multifunctional Serralunga “Holly All” Vase seat/sculpture by Philippe Starck, from Space, could have been tailor-made for the dining area. Indoor plants throughout the house emphasise the organic nature of the building. The stick table was handmade. The artwork is by Dutch artist Wim Worm.

The multilevel house makes the most of the sloping site. The artwork, left of table, is by Irene Ferguson. Nancy bought the original set of 1970s copper Lucite swivel chairs online.

Nancy has zapped up the existing kitchen joinery by installing copper handles on the units and adding Carrara marble benchtops. Tumbled-marble mosaics on the floor are from a local supplier.

The house embraces its natural bush environment. Kartell Philippe Starck “Bubble Club” furniture, from Space, creates a funky living hub among the greenery. The copper theme continues outdoors with the coffee table, picked up from the Salvos Stores, and the copper fireplace from Gumtree.

Nestled discreetly behind a fence − custom-made and finished in earthy Porter’s Paints “Instant Rust” − is a wonderfully decadent outdoor bath.

Nooks can be found everywhere, adding to the curiosity and cosiness of the home. A selection of artworks adorn the wall above an inviting Erba Italia “Love Affair” sofa from Milano Furniture.

Dual basins are not a recent invention, as the original main ensuite proves. The sweep of the vanity and the rounded edges on the mirror echo the curves throughout the house.

Bright Missoni bedding and a funky Kartell lamp create a playful contrast with the bare white walls in Charley’s room.

Another nook! The original and fabulous Featherston “Numero” modular foam lounge (eight pieces in total) was sourced from eBay and re-covered in Kvadrat pure wool Divina Fuchsia. The Cattelan Italia “DNA” bookcase by Reverso, and Cattelan Italia “Yo-yo” coffee table by Emanuele Zenere are both from Milano Furniture.

Furniture and accessories − such as the Verner Panton “Panthella” table lamp and the purple Arne Jacobsen “Egg” chairs in the living area − add to the retro vibe of the house.

The post This one-of-a-kind home looks like something straight out of Middle Earth appeared first on Homes To Love.

Summer Christmas lunch recipes to make this festive season

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 03:51:00 +0000

One of the best things about the festive season is, undoubtedly, eating your bodyweight in food — and more prawns than you can poke a skewer at. Pavlova reigns and some form of roasted bird is mandatory. Because we’re lucky enough to celebrate Christmas in summer, Aussies get to nosh on fresh and zesty salads, too.

If you’re hosting lunch this year and don’t want to wheel out the same old Chrissy recipes your Grandma did (although, didn’t she do it so well?), bookmark this page.

We’ve created a six-course meal — give or take — that puts a serious spin on Christmas fare. Sweet-spiced duck with cherry sauce, anyone? Who’s up for sashimi crudo and nectarine? Care for pavlova with thyme? It’s all here… and you’re welcome.

PRAWN AND MANGO LETTUCE CUPS

Serves 6 as a starter

Prep time: 15 mins

INGREDIENTS

2 little gem lettuce or cos hearts, leaves separated
1 mango, cheeks removed and finely sliced
12-24 shiso leaves
12 prawns, cooked, peeled and deveined
Toasted coconut flakes

NUOC CHAM DRESSING

1 long green chilli, sliced
Juice of 1 lime
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp caster sugar

METHOD

To make nuoc cham dressing, combine ingredients in a small bowl and stir to dissolve sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning if required; it should be salty, sweet and sour with a slight kick from the chilli.
Arrange remaining ingredients on the table and let your guests help themselves. Alternatively, layer each lettuce leaf with shiso leaves, sliced mango, prawns and toasted coconut flakes, then drizzle the nuoc cham dressing over.

PEACH AND TOMATO SALAD WITH FENNEL CHILLI DRESSING

Serves 6-8 as a shared side

Prep time: 10 mins

INGREDIENTS

4 yellow peaches
4 heirloom tomatoes
1 buffalo mozzarella ball or burrata

FENNEL-CHILLI DRESSING

1 tbsp fennel seeds, toasted
1 tsp dried chilli flakes
Pinch of sea salt flakes
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

METHOD

Slice tomatoes into a mix of wedges and thick slices. Halve peaches and remove stones, then slice into wedges. Combine tomatoes and peaches in a serving bowl.
To make the fennel-chilli dressing, combine fennel seeds, chilli flakes and salt in a small mixing bowl, then whisk in lemon juice and olive oil.
To serve, tear buffalo mozzarella or burrata over salad and drizzle fennel-chilli dressing.

SNAPPER CRUDO WITH NECTARINE

Serves 6-8 as a starter

Prep time: 15 mins

INGREDIENTS

400g sashimi-grade snapper, thinly sliced
1 yellow nectarine, very thinly sliced on a mandoline slicer
1 white nectarine, very thinly sliced on a mandoline
½ tsp pink peppercorns, crushed
Chervil, to serve

ORANGE DRESSING

Juice of 1 small orange
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Pinch of sea salt flakes

METHOD

To make orange dressing, whisk together ingredients in a small bowl.
Arrange snapper and nectarine slices on a serving plate. Spoon dressing over, then sprinkle over pink peppercorns and chervil. Serve immediately as the acid in the dressing will start to ‘cook’ the snapper.

CHRISTMAS-SPICE DUCK WITH CHERRY SAUCE

Serves 4-6 as a shared main

Prep time: 10 mins

Cook time: 1 hr 10 mins + resting

INGREDIENTS

1 duck — bring the duck to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking
Olive oil, for drizzling
3 fresh figs, quartered

SPICE RUB

1 tbsp sea salt flakes
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp finely grated nutmeg
Zest of 1 orange

CHERRY SAUCE

415g canned, stoneless black cherries in syrup
¼ cup honey
2 tbsp red-wine vinegar
4 star anise
3 strips orange peel
2 cinnamon quills
2 fresh bay leaves

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180ºC. To make the spice rub, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Place duck on a large cutting board breast-side down. Use sharp kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it; reserve to use for stock or discard. Flip duck over and use the palm of your hand to press down on the breast bone to flatten duck out. Transfer to a wire rack over a baking tray and tuck both wings behind the duck’s back.
Rub skin with olive oil and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the skin begins to turn golden. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the skin with spice rub.
Arrange fig quarters on rack and roast duck for a further 20 minutes or until it is just cooked (the meat should be juicy and blushing).
Remove from the oven, loosely cover with foil and set aside to rest for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, make the cherry sauce. Combine ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat. Simmer for 20 minutes or until glossy and reduced by half. Set aside.
To serve, cut duck in quarters and arrange on a platter with roasted figs. Serve with cherry sauce on the side.

BROWN SUGAR PAVLOVA WITH BLACKBERRIES, LEMON AND THYME

Serves 6-8

Prep time: 20 mins

Cook time: 1 hr + cooling

INGREDIENTS

6 egg whites, at room temperature
1/8 tsp cream of tartar
1 cup raw caster sugar
½ cup firmly packed dark brown sugar, lumps removed
1 tbsp cornflour
1 tsp white vinegar
Blackberries, to serve
Zest of 1 lemon, to serve
Thyme leaves, to serve

WHIPPED CREAM

200ml thickened cream
100g mascarpone
1½ tbsp caster sugar

METHOD

Preheat oven to 140ºC (fan forced). Line a large baking tray with baking paper.
To make pavlova, place egg whites and cream of tartar in the bowl of an electric mixer and whisk until soft peaks form. Gradually add caster sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking well between each addition until sugar has dissolved. Continue with brown sugar until mixture is stiff and glossy.
Combine cornflour and vinegar in a small bowl, then gently fold through meringue mixture until combined.
Spoon meringue mixture onto baking paper (see note) to form a 25cm-diameter dome and use a spatula to shape the meringue as you like. Bake for 1 hour, then turn the oven off and allow meringue to cool completely in the oven with the door closed.
To make whipped cream, place cream and caster sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer and whisk until medium peaks. Add mascarpone and whisk until just combined. Refrigerate until required.
To serve, carefully transfer meringue to a cake stand or platter. Top with whipped cream and decorate with blackberries, lemon zest and thyme leaves.

Note: Hold baking paper in place on baking tray with a small dot of meringue mixture in each corner. Brown sugar meringue can be quite fragile and susceptible to humidity, so keep the meringue in a cool, dry place until ready to decorate and serve.

The post Summer Christmas lunch recipes to make this festive season appeared first on Homes To Love.

A tasty Christmas pavlova recipe with mango & passionfruit

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 23:09:00 +0000

There’s nothing like a fresh, summer spin on a classic Christmas recipe. This Christmas pavlova recipe, with a dash of tropical fruit, fully embodies the spirit of an Aussie Christmas while shaking up your dessert repertoire.

The recipe’s tropical fruit elements create delightful fusion of seasonal sweetness and tropical tanginess that are the perfect way to cap off a hearty family lunch or dinner and add a sweet, summer touch to your festive table setting.

CHRISTMAS PAVLOVA RECIPE WITH MANGO AND PASSIONFRUIT

Prep: 30 mins

Cooking: 2hrs 10 mins

Serves 8-20

INGREDIENTS

4 eggwhites
Salt
190g caster sugar
50g brown sugar
2 tsp cornflour
½ tsp white vinegar
50g shredded or desiccated coconut
500g crème fraîche
2 tbsp icing sugar, sieved
1 tbsp golden rum
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
Thickly sliced mango & passionfruit pulp, to serve

Passionfruit caramel

2/3 cup passionfruit pulp (about 6 passionfruit)
330g caster sugar
1 tbsp golden rum
1 tbsp lime juice

A tasty Christmas recipe, this mango and passionfruit pavlova is sure to win hearts.

(Recipe & Food Styling: Emma Knowles)

METHOD

Preheat oven to 120°C. Whisk egg whites and a pinch of salt in electric mixer for 3 to 4 mins until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar; whisk until stiff and glossy. Fold in cornflour, vinegar and coconut and spoon onto baking tray in a 22cm-diameter pile, forming high sides. Bake for 1½ to 2 hrs until crisp on the outside, but not coloured. Turn off oven and cool completely in oven for 3 to 4 hrs.
To make passionfruit caramel, puree passionfruit pulp in food processor, press through sieve, discard seeds and set aside. Place sugar and ½ cup water in saucepan over medium-high heat, bring to the boil and cook for 5 to 6 mins until caramelised. Brush away any sugar crystals that form on side of pan with wet pastry brush. Remove from heat, place pan in sink and gradually and carefully add 125ml water (be very careful as caramel will spit). Stir to combine then stir in passionfruit juice, rum and lime juice.
Place crème fraîche, icing sugar, rum and vanilla in medium bowl and whisk to soft peaks. Spoon on top of pavlova. Top with mango and passionfruit pulp and drizzle with a little passionfruit caramel. Serve.

A tropical mango and passionfruit pavlova will have your friends and family feeling as festive as ever.

(Recipe & Food Styling: Emma Knowles)

The post A tasty Christmas pavlova recipe with mango & passionfruit appeared first on Homes To Love.

Sass & Bide’s Heidi Middleton sells Palm Beach pad to Joey’s restaurateur, Ben May for $10m

Danielle Grover — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 05:18:00 +0000

Heidi Middleton’s Palm Beach weekender, a visual feast of eclectic style and elegance, has sold to The Joey’s owner, restaurateur Ben May for $10 million. The colourful, personality-filled house from the co-founder of Australian fashion label Sass & Bide is more like a villa in the Mediterranean than coastal New South Wales. The property sits on the northern beaches peninsula like a sparkling jewel on one of the designer’s luxe pieces.

Heidi, who now runs art and fashion site Art Club, first listed the house in 2020 with an $11 million to $12 million guide. The pandemic interrupted the planned sale, but the property returned to the exclusive Palm Beach market in October 2023, guiding $9.9 million.

Hospitality professional and proud new holiday home owner, The Joey’s Ben May finally purchased the Palm Beach home for $10 million.

Porta Rossa, as it is known, was built in the 1940s and for decades it was owned by self-confessed Italophile Brian Hawes, who reportedly hosted guests including Liberace and Shirley Bassey at the house. Heidi purchased the property in 2005 for $3.6 million, six years after she and her friend Sarah-Jane Clarke established Sass & Bide, which has since become one of Australia’s most prolific and globally-regarded fashion labels. There have been extensive renovations and additions to Porta Rossa over the years, but it retains its glamorous Med-style vibes with white stucco walls, marble flooring, steel arched windows and sandstone columns.

Heidi Middleton (pictured) purchased the property in 2005 for $3.6 million, six years after she and her friend Sarah-Jane Clarke established Sass and Bide. It’s now for sale in the $9.9 million region.

(Source: LJ Hooker)

Nestled in its juxtaposing Australian bush surrounds, Porta Rossa villa sits above the coastline of Palm Beach and overlooks Pittwater. The property features tiered terraces, oh-so-Med bougainvillea and the house itself is set over four floors that step down the steep hill.

The entrance level, which is set on the second level of the house, brings you into an open plan living area and stainless steel kitchen, sitting room and a second living space with a fireplace. Here, two separate balconies open up to expansive views over Pittwater and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.

Heidi has said in media reports that she is planning to divide her time between Sydney and Byron Bay to be closer to family in Queensland as well as her new partner, property developer Michael Malouf. She has since decamped to Noosa with Malouf. Last year she returned from a three-year visit to France, where she restored a chateau near Bordeaux.

She has since been using Porto Rosso as a backdrop for her new fashion and art brand ArtClub. The lovingly incubated creative concept is an online-only atelier offering rare vintage garments for sale along with Heidi’s paintings and original clothing designs.

Porta Rossa is set on the more private and leafy Pittwater side of Palm Beach, which is just a one-hour drive from Sydney’s centre.

(Source: LJ Hooker)

The lower level of the expansive property features two double bedrooms that share a tedelakt plaster bathroom and opens to an expansive marble terrace. There is also a dining area named “The Grotto”, which has a fully equipped summer kitchen for entertaining.

The master bedroom is reached via an internal staircase from the entrance level, and has its own private terrace with outdoor shower, and an open plan bathroom with a stone bath overlooking Pittwater. The master also has its own mezzanine level walk-in wardrobe.

Guests need not muck in with your crowd. A self-contained studio with access to the garden is set on the lowest level and has its own bathroom and kitchenette.

SEE INSIDE SASS & BIDE STAR HEIDI MIDDLETON’S FORMER PALM BEACH HOUSE

Source: LJ Hooker

The main living and kitchen area of Heidi’s Palm Beach getaway – now for sale via LJ Hooker – opens out to a sun-drenched balcony. Iconic Palm Beach is a two-minute walk away, and the house is an easy distance from top-notch local restaurant Barrenjoey House, as well as the popular Boathouse Cafe.

Source: LJ Hooker

The expansive villa is set over four levels and opens out to stunning views of Pittwater and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.

Source: LJ Hooker

There have been extensive renovations and additions to Porta Rossa over the years, but the property retains the glamorous Med-style vibes with white stucco walls, marble flooring and chic steel arched windows.

Source: LJ Hooker

This bathroom with stone bath has expansive views across Pittwater. The arched windows are consistent through the house, framing the stunning views from every angle.

Source: LJ Hooker

A bedroom fit for a fashion designer. The master bedroom is reached via an internal staircase from the entrance level, and has its own private terrace with outdoor shower, and an open plan bathroom with a stone bath overlooking Pittwater. The master also has its own mezzanine level walk-in wardrobe.

Source: LJ Hooker

Being set on the Pittwater side of Palm Beach, Porta Rossa has stunning views at sunset, and light streaming into the living areas year round.

Source: LJ Hooker

Although it’s an older-style home, the very contemporary and popular concept of indoor-outdoor living is achieved in many of the rooms. Large steel-frame doors open up to large terraces on several levels.

Source: LJ Hooker

The amazing Palm Beach residence looks more like a villa in the Mediterranean than in coastal NSW.

Source: LJ Hooker

The large kitchen mixes old and contemporary styles, with stainless steel surfaces adding a modern yet timeless element.

Source: LJ Hooker

The lower level of the expansive property features two double bedrooms that share a tedelakt plaster bathroom and opens to an expansive marble terrace.

Source: LJ Hooker

Heidi’s lovingly incubated creative concept ArtClub has been residing in the Palm Beach home. The online-only atelier offers rare vintage garments for sale along with Heidi’s paintings and original clothing designs.

The post Sass & Bide’s Heidi Middleton sells Palm Beach pad to Joey’s restaurateur, Ben May for $10m appeared first on Homes To Love.

KitchenAid announces an aesthetically pleasing collaboration with ALÉMAIS

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 00:50:00 +0000

Let us set the scene: it’s a warm summer evening by the sea, the kitchen bench is dusted in flour that has been used to knead homemade pasta, drops of wine and sauce are splashed across the tablecloth, waves crash against the shore nearby and laughter fills the air. These sorts of casual Australian soirées aren’t just about food; they’re about home and heart, and cherished moments with loved ones. And they’re exactly the inspiration behind KitchenAid’s latest collaboration with local fashion label ALÉMAIS.

“The jumping-off point was the idea that the kitchen was the heart of the home — it’s where everybody comes together, and the preparation of meals is so rooted in connection,” Lesleigh Jermanus, co-founder and creative director of ALÉMAIS told real living. “The design captures all of the elements that come together when cooking and entertaining…nature, food, joy, connection and a healthy dose of whimsy.”

SHOP THE STAND MIXER

While the limited edition stand mixer sold out in record time, there is another restock arriving online on Sunday, November 26. Set you timers, mark your calendars. Stock won’t last long.

SHOP NOW

ALÉMAIS’ Lesleigh Jermanus describes her entertaining style as casual and fun. “It’s all about good food, good company and a great soundtrack for me!” she says. Included with the stand mixer is an ALÉMAIS-designed tablecloth, valued at $220. SHOP NOW

The 4.8-litre artisan stand mixer comes in KitchenAid’s iconic Mineral Water colourway, coupled with a limited edition ceramic bowl decorated with whimsical motifs of land, sea and sun. The design transcends mere kitchenware and is a work of art worthy of a permanent place on your kitchen bench.

Retailing for $1199, the set comes with a wire whisk, flat beater, and dough hook attachment, as well as an ALÉMAIS print tablecloth (which is valued at $220). You can even choose to engrave your mixer to make it a truly one-of-a-kind piece, and the perfect gift this Christmas.

SHOP THE KITCHENAID x ALÉMAIS STAND MIXER

The limited edition stand mixer is exclusively available at KitchenAid.

SHOP NOW

To celebrate the first-of-its-kind collaboration, KitchenAid and ALÉMAIS are hosting a special dinner with renowned chef Julia Ostro, and you’re invited. Held at North Bondi Lifesavers Club in Sydney on Friday, November 24 at 6pm, guests will be treated to a three-course roaming dining experience. Tickets are essential and available to purchase here.

“I love cooking fresh pasta, especially when entertaining,” says ALÉMAIS’ Lesleigh. “Lately I’ve been loving all of Julia Ostro Busuttil Nishimura’s recipes. Her ricotta gnocchi in a summer tomato sauce is a never-fail.” Especially when made with a KitchenAid x ALÉMAIS stand mixer.

The design of the new stand mixer is inspired by dinner parties filled with fun and frivolity. SHOP NOW

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13 Christmas decorations for minimalists

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 05:28:00 +0000

We’ve all seen Christmas gone wrong. Tacky santa hats, tinsle-tantrums and too many baubles drowning the tree. If this fills you with horror you probably lean towards more timeless, delicate Christmas decorations when adorning your home.

If so, this collection of 13 of the most beautiful minimalist Christmas decorations will be right up your alley. Championing wooden, neutral and natural tones like white, creams, black, green and gold, rather than the traditional red Christmas, these festive wreaths and unique baubles bring a level of luxury and sophistication with tactile fabrics and shimmering accents.

So before you bring your tree out of the box and reach for those colourful LEDs, instead curate your Christmas with this well-edited list.

13 minimalist Christmas decorations

Nordic Rooms paper tree ornament in olive, $8 (usually $10), Aura Home

Faux white berry LED Christmas wreath, $50, Target

Luigi Bormioli Optica martini glass, $49.98 for four (usually $99.95), Myer

Hanging natural timber snowflake, $4.79 (usually $7.99), Adairs

Henty napkin ring set of 4, $49.95, Country Road

Jo Malone London Christmas cracker, $75, David Jones

Morgan & Finch wooden mini nativity set, $9.09 (usually $12.99), Bed Bath N’ Table

Vue Spencer 16pc cutlery set rose gold, $54.98 (usually $109.95), Myer

Siena pillar candle in Antique, $6.95, Provincial Home Living

Pine in ceramic pot, $17.49 (usually $24.99), Bed Bath N’ Table

Morgan & Finch village house set, $20.99 (usually $29.99), Bed Bath N’ Table

Black Blaze beaded fountain brass candle holder, $119.00 (20% off at checkout), The Iconic

Habitat gum leaf Christmas garland, $69.95 (usually $99.95), Pillow Talk

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The founder of fashion label Alémais just bought a Byron Bay home

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 05:41:00 +0000

It’s been a big year for Lesleigh Jermanus and Chris Buchanan, the couple behind Australian fashion label Alémais. The brand only launched back in 2020 but has already become well-known for its whimsical patterns and fun, exaggerated silhouettes. More recently, they collaborated with Zoe Foster-Blake’s skincare brand Go-To, and launched a limited edition stand mixer with KitchenAid.

So it comes as no surprise that such success as afforded the couple the luxury of a property spending spree, with the duo snapping up three beachfront homes this year alone. It has just now been confirmed that Lesleigh and Chris were the buyers of Chloe Brookman’s playfully updated Federation property in Sydney’s South Coogee back in March, which sold for $6 million.

With whimsical interiors inspired by “Wes Anderson movies, period Sydney buildings, tiled Italian palazzos, English country homes and Art Deco charm,” the spirited home certainly sits well with the Alémais aesthetic.

“Designing and witnessing Bundock House come to life has been such an utter joy, and a creative process that I never imagined would be so addictive… so we have decided to hand the keys over to a family who will love it as much as we have,” said Chloe on the sale of the South Coogee home.

(Photography: Georgina Egan | Stylist: Kristin Rawon | Story: Belle)

And now they’ve bought not one, but two beachfront properties in Byron Bay. The adjoining townhouses are part of a hillside duplex spanning 1073sqm. While one was listed for sale, the other was secured in an off-market deal. All together it has been estimated that the couple splashed nearly $13 million for the two properties.

Formerly a popular rental property, ‘Larimar @ Wategos’ is a five-bedroom, three-bathroom beach house right on the doorstep of both the beach and popular restaurant, Raes. Knock down a wall between it and the neighbouring duplex and Lesleigh and Chris could now be looking at a eight-bedroom, five-bathroom home in one of Byron’s most prestigious and private enclaves.

While advertised as “an enchanting fusion of funky holiday retreat and a cosy family haven,” the home could certainly do with some cosmetic updates — we’re looking at you, corner spa bath and dated kitchen cabinetry. But the expansive entertaining deck overlooking the bay is a big enough selling point.

Take a look for yourself.

SHOP THE LOOK

Alémais has been worn by everyone from Zoe Foster-Blake to Lisa Wipfli, actress Blythe Danner, stylist Caroline Tran, singer Dami Im and more. You can shop all of Alémais’ beautiful clothing here.

INSIDE THE ALÉMAIS FOUNDER’S NEW BYRON BAY HOME

The decked area is set high on the hill and enjoys uninterrupted views across Byron Bay’s Wategos beach. Popular restaurant Raes is just a short stroll down the road.

Photo: realestate.com.au

Previously a holiday rental, the home is relaxed and comfortable, and bi-fold doors open out to the view.

Photo: realestate.com.au

Set across three levels, the home is filled with quirky spaces, including one styled as a sunken living space. Photo: realestate.com.au

The floors have been painted white and covered in an assortment of patterned rugs — all remniscient of beautiful Alémais designs.

Photo: realestate.com.au

The kitchen — although slightly dated — has good bones, being positioned in an open-plan living space that is bathed in light thanks to the expansive deck right outside.

Photo: realestate.com.au

Together, the two duplexes have eight bedrooms and five bathrooms.

Photo: realestate.com.au

One of the three bathrooms has a built-in corner spa bath that could certainly benefit from a cosmetic update.

Photo: realestate.com.au

Set up on the hillside, the deck overlooks Byron Bay’s popular Wategos beach.

Photo: realestate.com.au

byron bay view

Apparently you can watch whales swim past from the deck. But even without them, the view is breathtaking.

Photo: realestate.com.au

The post The founder of fashion label Alémais just bought a Byron Bay home appeared first on Homes To Love.

Here’s how to decorate your Christmas tree, according to a stylist

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Whether it’s a fresh pine tree or it comes out of a box, setting up your Christmas tree is the best way to kick off the festive season. You can cue Mariah Carey, pour some bubbles/eggnog and reminisce about your oldest ornaments. We can picture it now.

But if you feel totally bamboozled when it comes to actually decorating your Christmas tree, we got you.

The first step is to find your Christmas style. Are you a traditionalist at heart, or do you prefer to break the rules with creative and contemporary Christmas decor? What’s gonna blend in seamlessly with the style of your home?

Here, stylist Jacinta Preston shares her seven simple steps for bringing your Christmas tree dreams to life.

1. Choose your style of Christmas tree

The very first step is to ask yourself before decorating your Christmas tree: which team are you on? Team Conservative is all about traditional, handed-down, age-old style of Christmas tree and decorations. It’s the trip down memory lane with a hint of nostalgia.

Team Progressive is fresh, new, up-to-date and bang on-trend with modern ideas. It can accommodate the latest and greatest and it’s more fun ‘cos it’s anything and everything you want it to be.

Once you have chosen your side, choose a tree to suit! Whether it’s fresh pine, artificial or colourful, or even something homemade, the tree is your canvas so choose the right one to fit for your space and your theme.

2. Do you need a kid-friendly Christmas tree?

If you have kids or pets, or know ones who visit often, then in reality your tree shouldn’t be covered in Tiffany & Co crystal baubles. Instead, use Christmas decorations that are unbreakable, such as cotton-wool balls, felt and feathers.

Like all good design projects you need a plan. Create a mood board to help you recognise your decorative destination, and more importantly, help you get there. Then, do a stocktake of your existing decorations so you know what you’ve got to work with and what you’ll need to update.

Work with your existing style when decorating for Christmas. A single tree branch looks effective against the bright white walls and floors of this beach house on the South Coast of NSW.

(Photography: James Henry)

3. Pick your Christmas decorating colour scheme

Team Conservative will naturally go for the classic colour chord, with a complementary scheme of red and green, red and white, or metallics. Team Progressive can do whatever takes their fancy and play around with different colours. I suggest a mix of pastels, brass and copper with something whimsical, such as a few pineapples, thrown in.

4. Stick to your Christmas decorating theme

This is not as easy as it seems but it’s how the pros do it! It requires commitment, dedication and willpower to stay on just one theme.

Keep any ideas you may have that are outside your current theme for next year’s Christmas. It’s all about doing one thing well.

Choosing one decorating theme and sticking to it is key for a consistent Christmas look.

(Photography: James Henry)

5. Light up your Christmas tree

Or should I say, add lights, garlands, ornaments! Just about anything can be used to decorate a Christmas tree. In fact, you can decorate your tree with just lights, but only if you do it in absolute abundance.

style tip

The estimate for light saturation is about 100 lights per 30-centimetres of tree… Yes, that’s a lot!

Keep the hero ornaments for feature positions, usually front and centre at eye level, but don’t forget to keep them evenly spaced, too.

(Photography: John Paul Urizar)

6. How to put the finishing touches on your Christmas tree

It’s all about spacing and layers. Keep the hero ornaments for feature positions, usually front and centre at eye level, but don’t forget to keep them evenly spaced, too.

Layer decorations deep on branches, as well as at the front, to create depth and richness to the overall look of the tree.

For the crowning glory, an angel or a star sits atop Team Conservative’s tree – beautiful, elegant and classic. And for Team Progressive it could be an origami lantern, a pom-pom, a wire hand, or even some antlers fashioned into a tree topper.

style tip

“Call me uncharitable, but I have never been a big fan of using children’s handmade Christmas decorations,” says Jacinta. If you’re shooting for that perfect-Christmas-catalogue-like tree and want a place for the kids’ Christmas crafts, have two trees, suggests Jacinta. “It’s like having two bathrooms – there’s the one that gets messy, then there’s the pretty one. Let ’em go bananas on it!”

The best place to put a Christmas tree is in a corner in an area that doesn’t receive much foot traffic.

(Photography: Maree Homer)

7. How to position your Christmas tree

Your tree is best positioned in a low-traffic corner, but still pride of place, smack-bang in the middle of things.

Truthfully, I love both a conservative and a progressive tree. My design style oscillates from season to season. This year I’m totally doing pom-pom garlands. My kids will be in major pom-pom production mode, cranking out homemade pom-poms for present wrapping and present-topping perfection.

We’ll be having a ball!

The post Here’s how to decorate your Christmas tree, according to a stylist appeared first on Homes To Love.

10 common interior design mistakes you might be making

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 03:00:00 +0000

You don’t have to be a professional stylist or interior designer to decorate your home successfully. With a little education and a lot of inspiration you’ll be on your way to a magazine-worthy interior in no time.

Rather than memorising the interior design rule book and making note of all the things you can and should do, we suggest remember the things you should never do and use that as a starting point to forge your own style.

According to interior stylist Emma Blomfield, these are the top 10 styling and interior design mistakes that Aussies are making in their living rooms. If you’re guilty of one (or all) of these, don’t worry, she’s here to help you fix them!

1. Poor furniture placement

Shoving furniture up against the walls makes a room look smaller rather than larger – strange, but true! There’s an easy fix: give your living room ‘breathing space’ by pulling the furniture away from the walls.

2. Heavy curtains

Instead of installing big, heavy drapes, consider roller blinds in a neutral fabric. That way, you can still achieve the block-out effect, but it’ll be far more subtle. Alternatively, if your outlook is more private, opt for sheers in living areas to let some light in. Unless your curtains are made of beautiful fabric or have a gorgeous pattern, you don’t really want them to be the main feature of the room.

Sheer curtains keep the vibe light and airy in the bedroom of this Edwardian-era home.

(Photography: Alicia Taylor)

3. Too much clutter

Storage is king! The more you can put behind closed doors, the better. If you don’t have a lot of built-in storage, use stylish baskets to disguise clutter.

4. Bad TV placement

The best spot for a TV is on a blank wall that isn’t blocking window light. If you can, mount it on the wall for a more streamlined look. Also, make sure you invest in a TV unit that’s in proportion to the size of the room and the TV itself – many rooms have one that’s dwarfed by a massive TV.

5. Lack of rugs

A room isn’t complete without a bit of colour and pattern on the floor. Whether you have carpet or floorboards, a great rug will add interest as well as provide warmth in winter. Happy shopping!

A large, light rug softens this living room while making it feel spacious.

(Photography: Maree Homer | Styling: Sarah Ellison)

6. Rugging up all wrong

Many ill-advised Aussies go for postage stamp-sized rugs, which throw a living room out of balance. Instead, choose a rug so big that the front feet of your lounge room furniture are all placed on it. Along with achieving a sense of balance, this also helps to zone your room and make it feel larger. Winning!

7. Going too dark

Many living rooms are dull, for the simple reason that they have no colour. The artwork, rugs and cushions are all dark, when they shouldn’t be – after all, they are the kind of key pieces that add life to a room.

8. Choosing imposing furniture

A lot of people select furniture that is too large for the space. The couch is usually the worst offender in terms of making the living room look and feel smaller. Also, many opt for chunky armed seating, which in small rooms can take up as much room as an additional seat. Stick to slim arms for small spaces.

Pops of yellow are used throughout this charming weatherboard home to tie the eclectic decor together.

(Photography: Toby Scott)

9. Mixing styles

It’s fine to be partial to a few decorating styles, but mashing them together in one room is another story. Select pieces that have common elements. For instance, if your sofa has rectangular arms, choose an armchair with the same kind of arms, rather than rolled ones.

10. Too matchy-matchy

Some people mix and match to their heart’s content; others go the other way and take decorating schemes too seriously. It’s fine to try and coordinate some of your furniture, but just add in a few splashes of colour to break it up.

The post 10 common interior design mistakes you might be making appeared first on Homes To Love.

6 mini Christmas tree ideas to try this festive season

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 01:15:00 +0000

We all dream of having a towering fresh Christmas tree to decorate and tuck presents under but for those that live in small homes or apartments this isn’t always practical or even possible.

Because of this, more and more, people are opting for alternative Christmas tree including using smaller potted trees or even getting creative with DIY designs that save them sacrificing their whole living room for the month of December.

So if you’re searching for a space-savvy ‘tree’ that suits the size and style of your home, why not try your hand at one of these decorative DIY Christmas designs.

MINI CHRISTMAS TREE DIY IDEAS

Mini Christmas trees made of rattan are a stylish, DIY option.

1. neutral rattan MINI CHRISTMAS TREE

Rattan is right up there when it comes to trends at the moment. Chances are it’s already part of your interior, and if that’s the case, why not incorporate it into your Christmas styling too with these minimal rattan Christmas tree cones.

What you need

Rattan webbing
White thread
Scissors
Marker pen
Paper
Tape

Steps

Sketch two lines onto paper to make a right angle. The length of the lines will be the height of your mini Christmas tree.
Tie thread to the end of the marker. Hold the thread in place at the corner of your right angle, extending marker pen to the end of the line. Swing the marker pen to the end of the other line, forming a curved shape as you draw.
Cut shape out and tape to the rattan webbing. Trace shape onto rattan with marker pen, then cut out the rattan shape. Hand-sew the two sides together with thread. Trim the tip to a neat point.

Spherical shapes can bring a quirky elegance to your festive decor.

2. MINI CHRISTMAS TREE WITH stylish spheres

For those that prefer the finer things in life, and perhaps find most Christmas decorations a bit kitsch, this chic and creative Christmas tree design is subtle yet guaranteed to become a talking point. It’s so cute, we think you could leave it out all year-round.

What you need

Ping pong balls or small tree baubles
Hot glue gun
Candlestick

Steps

Start by gluing three ping pong balls (or tree baubles) together to form a triangle, then glue a single ball on top – this will form the top point of your mini Christmas tree.
Continue gluing balls below this, checking the shape is even as you go.
Once you are happy with the finished shape, glue your ball tree onto the top of the candlestick.
If you want to make it extra special you could spray ping pong balls any colour you like or buy baubles in matte black, ice blue or deep green.

Instead of donating them, repurpose your old books into a stylish mini Christmas tree.

3. MINI WHITE CHRISTMAS TREE

Christmas is a time filled with magical stories, so before you take that box of old books to the op-shop, why not save a few for this mini paper Christmas tree design. Super chic, this style is ideal for the lover of all things vintage and antique.

What you need

An old book (aged edges look great)
Scissors
Glue stick

Steps

Remove the front and back cover from the book, then cut it in half down the centre of the spine, so you are left with two thinner books.
Take the first page of one of the book halves and fold from the top corner, bringing in to the spine.
Fold same piece towards the spine again. Continue to fold all the pages this way until you have your desired fullness. Repeat with other book half.
To finish, glue both halves of the folded book together and trim the bottom ends so that the tree will sit flat.

Easy to make, these felt Christmas trees can be used in your table setting for a festive touch.

4. FUNKY FELT DIY CHRISTMAS TREE

These funky felt Christmas trees can be designed to fit into any aesthetic and look great grouped in a vase on a mantle, incorporated into a Christmas table centrepiece, or even styled into a wreath for your front door. Plus, they make a gorgeous gift as a tree ornament for those lucky enough to have the real thing in their homes.

What you need

Paper
Scissors
Pencil
Tape
Felt fabric
Superglue or hot glue gun
Branches

Steps

Draw a Christmas tree shape onto paper, cut out, then tape onto a piece of felt. Cut around template.
Fold the felt tree in half and apply glue down folded edge. Fasten to top of branch and hold in place for 20 seconds until the glue has dried.
Continue these steps all the way around the branch. When all trees applied, tidy up the top by cutting to a neat point and place into a soil-filled pot at varying heights.

Want to participate in the festive cheer but short on space? Try a pot plant Christmas tree.

5. POT PLANT CHRISTMAS TREE

From towering fiddle leaf figs or indoor olive trees to tiny potted pine trees, any kind of indoor plant can be transformed into a Christmas tree – all you need is decorations!

What you need

Small baubles and fairy lights are best for decorating, just be sure not to overload the plant. You could use a small branch from any tree for this project. Conifers or pine trees would work well.

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A post shared by Tammy. Succulent Artistry (@livingbunch_hire)

6. mini succulent Christmas tree

This mini succulent Christmas tree is perfect for a tiny home or apartment. The great thing about this DIY project is that you can easily pull it apart and display your cacti and succulents in other creative ways once the festive season is over.

You will need

Chicken wire
Sphagnum moss
Chopstick
Pins (floral or sewing – the longer the better)
Succulent plant cuttings (We suggest: Echeveria, Aeonium, Crassula, Sempervivum, Sedum, Agave and Cotyledons)

Steps

Create a cone shape with the chicken wire and pin it together.
Fill the wire cone with sphagnum moss, pressing it firmly into the wire so the structure is no longer visible.
Submerge the moss cone in water. Remove from water and allow to drain.
To embed the succulents into the moss, take the chopsticks and make small hole in the moss.
Take a succulent cutting and embed it into the hole, pinning it in place. Repeat this process until the entire structure is covered.
Don’t forget to pop a Christmas star at the top of the tree to complete the look!

The post 6 mini Christmas tree ideas to try this festive season appeared first on Homes To Love.

Inside tastemaker Athena Calderone’s beautiful NYC apartment

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 05:10:00 +0000

Everything Athena Calderone touches is beautiful. Whether it’s a summer salad she’s preparing, an outfit she’s styled, or a room or piece of decor she has designed. The US-based tastemaker and multi-faceted creative quickly became the lifestyle darling of Instagram back in the mid-2010s when she launched ‘EyeSwoon’, a blog and online destination for all things food, entertaining, fashion, interiors and lifestyle.

And then there was the three-year renovation of her townhouse in Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill, where she lived with her husband, music producer and DJ Victor Calderone. As experienced renovators with eight projects already under their belts, the couple acquired several apartments in the building and went about combining them to create one light-filled and open-plan sanctuary with Athena’s well-known wabi-sabi style.

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A post shared by EyeSwoon (@eyeswoon)

They retained heritage features such as architraves and fireplaces but opened the space up with walls of steel-framed windows, and in doing so captured that magical moment in design when old sits perfectly next to new. In Athena’s own words, “A union of the vintage pieces reaped in history, but telling a new story once set amongst the contemporary ones.”

And while the couple had intended for the property to be their ‘forever home’, it was reported earlier this year that they’d sold it to an unknown buyer for upwards of AUD$17 million. “This home held so much. Offered so much. Each and every memory is padlocked in me forever,” Athena shared on her Instagram. “But as many of you know, I’m in constant pursuit of evolution and it was time to sell my dream home. And yes, get a little uncomfortable in order to find our next one. My new design adventure awaits…”

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A post shared by EyeSwoon (@eyeswoon)

Well, that adventure has arrived. The design virtuoso recently shared sneak peeks inside her latest purchase: an apartment in Tribeca once owned by notable French architect Thierry Despont – who was, amongst other things, responsible for the restoration of the Statue of Liberty.

“I cannot help to feel it is somehow kismet to dream where he dreamt, to design where he designed, to explore my many creative facets where he explored his,” she shared with her more than one million followers. “A famous quote and belief of Thierry was that an architect’s role was to act as ‘the guardian of memories.’ I have always believed in this very sentiment – the importance of not only maintaining a home’s integrity, but that hidden within the walls and imbued in every object is a soul, a story, a memory.”

And while glimpses of the space have only been brief so far, Athena has shared that she doesn’t intend to change much of the design scheme, apart from relocating the kitchen and refinishing the original ornate wood panelling on the walls, which dates back to the early 1900s.

So while we wait for more, let’s take a look back at her breathtaking former Brooklyn townhouse.

Inside Athena Calderone’s former Brooklyn home

Athena’s kitchen renovation was nothing short of a masterful fusion of artistry and functionality. Drawing inspiration from the rustic elegance of Mediterranean design, she seamlessly blended warm earthy tones with clean lines and modern accents.

The heart of the space is undoubtedly the handcrafted Calacatta Paonazzo marble kitchen island bench; with its unique square shape and subtle veining that perfectly compliments the dark cabinetry in the space. One of her top design tips for the kitchen is styling branches on the kitchen island. “A trifecta of natural beauty – offering verticality, a sculptural quality, and bringing the outdoors in,” she describes.

The collection of artisanal ceramics and carefully sourced vintage accessories styled along a floating marble shelf add a sense of history and character, and provide the creative with an opportunity to flex her hand at pulling together the perfect vignette.

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A post shared by EyeSwoon (@eyeswoon)

The townhouse’s bathroom is also impossibly elegant. A marble fireplace ties it to the living room, light comes flooding through tall windows that definitely don’t allow much privacy – but what’s the point of having a pink marble shower if no one can see it?

Athena admitted she never intended on having a marble slab shower – she initially thought her budget wouldn’t allow for it. But she recommends looking at secondhand stone, which in her case was almost the same price as marble tiles.

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Athena designs interiors with the belief that a home should be a deeply personal creation. As she puts it, “Design is so personal, beauty is so personal – the objects you collect overtime hold such intimate memories. It is an expression of the things you love – that alone harnesses a certain voltage of beauty. Our homes are also where we spend the most quality time with our loved ones and the most sacred time with ourselves. To ‘live beautiful’ simply means to express who you are in your home – to seek, explore, and tinker within your space so that it becomes the closest reflection of what you love and what your eye craves. And most of all what makes you happiest.”

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The post Inside tastemaker Athena Calderone’s beautiful NYC apartment appeared first on Homes To Love.

8 creative ideas to turn camping into DIY glamping

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Glamping – aka glamorous camping – hit the big time trend-wise when we realised there had to be a slightly less filthy version of sleeping outdoors and waking to the sound of bird song. In a bid to connect with nature without becoming completely dishevelled, glamorous camping became a luxe addition to the great outdoors. For the more discerning adventurers looking to amp up their tent life, glamping style is simple to replicate.

Glamping allows you to immerse yourself in some of the most idyllic places, where hotels aren’t an option or you don’t want them to be, without having to sacrifice comfort, style or those little luxuries you often crave while on holidays.

While you can book a glamping holiday through a business that takes care of the all hard work for you – from set up to styling and even meals – you can easily create your own stylish set up with the right gear and few simple styling tricks.

Keep scrolling for our list of glamping essentials and decorating ideas to turn your annual camping trip (or backyard holiday) into a luxe escape.

The trick to glamping is finding those stylish accessories that look as good outside as they do in your living room.

(Photographer: Derek Swalwell)

MUST-HAVE GLAMPING TOOLS TO SHOP

Even though your tap is probably a few metres away (hello backyard glampers), a portable water canteen adds to the DIY glamping fun. This retro-style canteen is insulated, so your water stays cool throughout the night.

Add a little glam to whatever tent you have by stringing up fairy lights either inside or around the “front door”. These pine cone fairy lights are USB operated, so you don’t need to plug it in to an outlet while you’re adventuring.

Put a comfort layer between you and the actual earth while you’re “grounding”. A blow-up mattress is great, but these GlamSwags are a beautiful and luxe addition to your DIY glamping kit.

8 DIY GLAMPING IDEAS TO TAKE OUTDOORS

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Invest in a bell glamping tent

A roomy bell tent is a must for any glamping trip. Prices range depending on the size and style so it pays to do your research online. Breathe Bell Tents is an Australian company with a great range of tents you can buy and they can also assist you with hire tents and other glamping services. Or this glamping tent is spacious enough to fit up to three double beds, and lets you experience the great outdoors (even if it’s just in your backyard) in style and comfort.

Make backyard glamping magical

Add instant bohemian appeal with sweet details like lanterns or hanging glass jars filled with fairy lights. These outdoor garden lanterns are solar operated, so they recharge in the day and then keep you feeling safe in the evening.

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Don’t be afraid to use the ‘good’ china

Bring out the good china and glassware to set up a truly indulgent picnic area free from mis-matched plastic cups and plates. If you’re going further afield than the back garden, make DIY glamping a little more glam by investing in some elegant glassware like this polycarbonate stemless glassware that won’t break.

Photographer: Maree Homer

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Nautical chic

Taking a trip by the sea? Go for nautical elements like rope details and classic blue and white accessories. This gorgeous shade beach tent gives you space to get out of the sun whether you’re in the bush or the beach, and it comes in beautiful nautical stripes.

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Stylish picnicware

Create a laid-back luxe feel with a few considered pieces like wicker baskets, natural tablecloths and vintage details such as enamel pitchers.

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Use luxe linens

Skip blow up mattresses and sleeping bags on the ground and go for a camping bed piled high with soft cushioning and luxe linens. Photo: Max Doyle

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Relax in a hammock

String up a hammock and adorn with a selection of cushions to create a cosy and comfortable relaxation zone. Photo: Maree Homer

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Rugs galore

Colourful rugs and floor cushions will add colour and style while cosying up your glamping setup. If you’re worried about the weather or would rather not put your couch cushions on the grass, invest in some durable that are designed for outdoor use. Photo: Maree Homer

The post 8 creative ideas to turn camping into DIY glamping appeared first on Homes To Love.

8 affordable outdoor furniture buys for summer

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

The days are now longer, the nights are warmer and the cicadas are sounding. That’s right, the balmy days of summer are here! And if there’s one thing Australians love more than the extended sunshine itself, it’s alfresco dining.

Migrating from the couch and venturing into the great outdoors (well, your backyard) is the best opportunity to spruce up your alfresco living area with some new furniture — and these days the possibilities are actually endless.

Turn your outdoor zones into an entertainer’s paradise with fun furniture and subtle pops of colour or pattern. Or, if you prefer a laid-back, resort-style vibe, a relaxing daybed and neutral, sumptuous soft furnishings may be more up your alley.

From market umbrellas to all-weather armchairs, here are some of the latest outdoor furniture and décor buys to inspire your next summer get-together (or siesta!)

The best affordable outdoor furniture buys

lounge-lovers-coffee-table

Malibu outdoor coffee table, $299, Lounge Lovers

Low to the ground for a casual outdoor setting, this outdoor coffee table is classic in its design and will complement most home design aesthetics seamlessly.

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beach-umbrella

Premium beach umbrella in brush strokes, $274, Hardtofind

Whether you’re beachbound or simply sipping cocktails poolside, a good beach umbrella is always a must-have when spending time outdoors. This one features a fun brush stroke print and makes the perfect outdoor companion.

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terracotta-hanging-egg-chair

Bernice outdoor hanging pod with stand, $849 (usually $949), Temple & Webster

You may not be able to holiday in the tropics everyday but you can sure find a slice of island life right here at home with this egg chair. Not only will it activate holiday mode but it’s crafted from an all-weather wicker material so you know it’s built to last.

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outdoor-dining-set-freedom

TRIVOLI dining package, $1599, Freedom

It’s no secret that Australians love a good alfresco meal and this four-piece dining package is perfect for exactly that. Not only will it add a touch of luxe to your space, but it’s outdoor-friendly design means you’ll be enjoying those summer BBQs for many years to come.

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outdoor-chair-castlery

Sorrento lounge chair, $649, Castlery

Never one to disappoint, you can’t look past Castlery when it comes to quality outdoor furniture buys. This lounge chair features clean angular lines to add a touch of luxe to your outdoor space.

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Folding-Table-and-Chairs-Set-Blue

Gardeon outdoor wooden sun lounge, $258.35 (usually $271.95), Myer

Picture this: lounging in your courtyard without a single worry in the world. This resort-style sun lounger is made for relaxing on.

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Castlery outdoor lounge set

Sierra 2 lounge chairs with coffee table set, $2329 (usually $2447), Castlery

Enjoy a mid-morning tea or catch some rays perched poolside with this resort-worthy lounge set. The arm chairs are super comfy, sturdy and feature plump cushions with removable covers.

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Striped-outdoor-cushion

Inflatable beach pillow in Latte, $39, Hommey

Add a touch of comfort to your outdoor setup with this inflatable beach pillow – especially if you’re one of the lucky ones and own an outdoor pool. Available in six different colourways, it’s crafted from 100 per cent terry cotton towelling with a convenient inflatable inner – making it easy to transport from backyard to beach, when needed.

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This pretty pink 1950s beach shack — and popular Airbnb — just sold

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 23:15:00 +0000

There’s something to be said about South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula. A world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life, it’s a place that bestows a sense of clarity. A place where, rather than rushing through the hours of the day, you’re soaking in every moment for all it’s worth. And with its silky smooth white sand and crystal-clear waters that stretch over 700km, its untouched beauty makes for a mesmerising sight.

If you’re lucky enough to call this slice of aqua paradise home, you’ll know it’s replete with hidden treasures begging to be uncovered. One of those hidden treasures is Love & Mutiny, a secluded pink beach shack located in Narungga Country on the Yorke Peninsula.

The idyllic holiday home is part of a single row of waterfront beach shacks.

After learning that the shack was originally painted pink in the 1950s, the pair were determined to restore the exterior to its former glory.

ON THE MARKET

Perhaps it has to do with the ‘Barbie’ fever that seems to be gripping the world right now, but this pretty pink shack on South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula has just sold in excess of its $770,000 price guide.

Domain reports that there were six offers presented to the owners over the campaign, who were selling the popular Airbnb fully furnished. As for whether the new owners will continue to rent it out to holidaymakers is yet to be confirmed. We’ve got our fingers and toes crossed though.

Behind this creation is Sarah Read and Emma Hall, a sister duo known for their knack for creating some seriously special properties. Love & Mutiny comes after the success of their first rental in 2019, ‘My Sister and the Sea‘, an enchanting cottage nestled in the coastal town of Marion Bay.

Splashes of coral pink, forest green and mustard breathe new life into the interiors whilst honouring the property’s vintage charm.

Eager to do it all over again, Sarah and Emma did what many could only dream of: they quit their day jobs to create beautiful spaces for themselves and others to enjoy. “After buying Love & Mutiny, we both left our jobs within 6 months of purchase,” Sarah explains of the idea. “This felt like going out on a limb so we thought staging mutiny on our lives with the intention of only loving what we do for a living was a very appropriate name.”

The vision for the accomodation was to create a space that would welcome creatives who need time for rest and renewal.

With a vision to create a space where creatives could think, feel, and, well, just be, Sarah and Emma knew straight away that this formerly run-down beach shack was the place to do it. When the pair discovered the property, “it was in a terrible state having been unused and unloved for a few years,” Sarah says. “The underneath of the house was bordered up with corrugated iron covering the view and a family of pigeons residing on the balcony.”

Despite its derelict state, the interior stylists were allured by the breathtaking ocean backdrop and could quite literally see the potential shining through the crevices of the old fibro walls. “We fell in love with it because of its position on the beach and the time of day we viewed it – the golden hour where the house lit up with sunset light. We had to say yes!”

With no wifi or television, the accomodation allows guests to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life.

Drawing upon their design talents, Emma and Sarah transformed the ocean-facing beach shack into an Insta-worthy stay that’s brimming with nostalgia and vintage charm. The space boasts two queen-sized bedrooms and a front balcony where guests can take in the panoramic views and bathe in the golden rays of the early morning sunrise from the comfort of their own bed.

Early morning sunlight hits the bedroom.

“The mesmerising beach and scrub views really anchor the space, you’re always looking out,” says Sarah. The best part? There’s no wifi or TV on site, offering guests the perfect opportunity to stow away from their devices and escape from the frenetic pace of everyday life without distraction.

Looking to design a space they would be ‘ecstatic’ to see listed on Airbnb, Love & Mutiny is the newest project from interior stylists and sister duo Sarah Read and Emma Hall.

Inside, the sisters have created an eclectic space where guests can find solace and inspiration in its joyful interiors. “We started with colours. We always wanted to do a green floor, and the colours inside reflect the sunset colours,” Sarah explains of the colour choices. “Working with salvaged materials also dictates the design to a certain point. It’s layers of texture, pattern, colours and then the branding last which tied it all together.”

Much like the rest of the interiors, the bathroom is tastefully renovated and full of vintage charm and artful details.

From a cocktail-making station to a record player and the cosy wood fire, every square inch of the space has been carefully curated to give guests a momento-worthy experience. And important as it was for the accomodation to reflect the sisters’ respective personal styles, it was equally important for the space to retain its vintage charm and character. “The exterior had to be painted pink in order to keep enough character of the original 1950’s beach shack,” says Sarah.

The space has two bedrooms with queen size beds and sleeps up to four guests.

Sarah and Emma enlisted the help of marketing and communications agency Super Assembly to translate the physical aesthetic of the interiors into graphical branding.

After purchasing the property in 2019, Emma and Sarah could finally enjoy the fruits of their labour when Love & Mutiny opened its doors for the first time in December 2021. “In the end it was great that the project evolved and changed over time because it was more and more refined,” Emma shares. With bookings still coming in thick and fast, Sarah and Emma are enjoying the journey and are simply taking things as they come – and that’s exactly how they like it. “This is part of the creativity for us,” Sarah explains.

While the sisters may not be looking to take on another project just yet, they’re allowing their inspiration to take them down a new creative path. “At the moment we are inspired to make things so we are making curtains from vintage Indian saris for our Shopify,” explains Emma. “We get asked so much where we source things from for the houses we sell vintage from time to time when we have pulled a great collection together via @readandhall“.

Guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Yorke Peninsula’s pristine coast.

BOOK YOUR STAY

You can find out more or book your stay at Love & Mutiny here > or visit @loveandmutiny. Visit Read & Hall and @readandhall to view more of Sarah and Emma’s work and to shop their range of vintage wares and handmade decor.

The post This pretty pink 1950s beach shack — and popular Airbnb — just sold appeared first on Homes To Love.

Decorating ideas for awkward empty spaces in the home

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 04:30:00 +0000

Everyone has that spot in their home – under the stairs, in a corner, at the end of hallway – that they don’t quite know what to do with. Leave it bare and it looks like something’s missing or fill it with whatever spare furniture you have lying around and run the risk of a decorating disaster.

These tricky spaces require careful consideration or, in some cases, an expert’s opinion, in order to make the most out this unused area and transform it into either a practical or decorative feature – or both, if you’re lucky!

From bar carts to bench seats and smart study nooks, here are some clever ways to fill the void in your unfinished home.

Decorating ideas for awkward empty spaces in the home

A bouclé chair and vintage-inspired reading lamp create a homely corner in Cultiver’s flagship store in Mosman.

1. Statement chair

A statement chair instantly creates a practical and stylish place for you to put shoes on or wait for your partner to get ready. Add a plant or lamp, if you like.

2. Home library

When stuck for ideas don’t forget a good built in but open bookcase can do wonders; creating a dynamic range of colourful spines and at the same time working extremely well as a sound absorber. A book-laden home always looks very appealing.

Who says you need a spare room to create a home office? This new-build Newcastle home has turns an empty hallway into an ideal office.

(Photographer: The Palm Co, Candice Saville)

3. Home office

Make use of dead space and set up a home office. All you need is a comfy chair and desk that fits into your nook. Hang shelves above for extra storage.

4. Under the stairs

That awkward space under the stairs isn’t just for Harry Potter. Make the most of this unassuming yet valuable real estate by transforming it into a study space or home library. Much more useful than a bedroom for an imaginary wizard, don’t you think?

Being surrounded by her favourite plants and blooms is what brings this jet-setting owner of this Milan apartment down to earth.

(Photographer: Valentina Sommariva | Living Inside)

5. Indoor plants

Indoor plants are a godsend for filling voids in the home. You can pretty much squeeze a plant into any vacant spot – beside your bed, on top of bookshelves and, of course, in empty corners. And they won’t just fill a space, indoor plants will bring any dead zone to life – trusting you can keep them alive.

6. Ornaments and artefacts

Another method that works well to fill empty corners are long thin objects that can be casually leaned into the corner. These may include vintage oars or artefacts such as statues, spears and masks. Not your style? How about a styled stack of magazines or books?

A carefully considered display creates a warm welcome in the entryway of this Northern Beaches home in Sydney.

(Photographer: Kristina Soljo | Styling: Natalie Johnson)

7. Striking vignette

Create a striking display or vignette on a shelving unit or narrow console using books and vessels or everyday items like books, vases and artwork.

8. Lighting

Bare spaces are often the perfect location for a tall floor light or a substantial floor standing sculptural object. Consider some edgier ideas like a conceptual lighting piece made from a cluster of neon tubes.

The soaring gable roof of this minimalist Sorrento home required hours of planning and “countless 3D models” to perfect it.

(Photographer: Rory Gardiner | Styling: Jess Kneebone)

9. High ceilings

A more challenging dead space is found in houses with very high ceilings. Often the space between the tops of furniture and the ceiling are so great that there is a great deal of empty space. Artwork can usually do the trick here; either a large scale work or a grouping of smaller works.

9. Bar cart

Bar carts are all the rage right now and can be easily tucked into a tight corner or along the blank wall beside your dining table. Not only will a beautifully-styled bar cart amplify your interior, it will also make entertaining a breeze! Did someone say “happy hour”?

Rectilinear windows frame views of greenery, balanced by a vibrant abstract painting by Tessa Dodds.

(Photographer: Martina Gemmola)

10. Windows

Putting in a window where a blank wall would be is a smart design decision, assuming that it doesn’t affect your privacy. Not only will you amplify the natural light in your home you may be lucky enough to create a beautiful outlook.

11. Bench seat

What to do with that blank wall or unused space under a window? We have two words for you: bench seat. Whether it’s a custom built day bed or a stylish store-bought seat, adding an extra spot to retreat and relax in your home is not something you will regret.

A set of Muuto “Dots” wall hooks create the perfect grab-and-go storage at the front door of this coastal weatherboard home in Byron Bay.

(Photographer: Maree Homer | Styling: Kristin Rawson)

13. Wall hooks

While bare walls can be brought to life with artwork, they can also be turned into a source of storage. Enter, wall hooks. Decorative designs like these timber dots are pretty and practical, providing a handy place to hang bags, coats or whatever you please. This is an especially good idea for entryways

The post Decorating ideas for awkward empty spaces in the home appeared first on Homes To Love.

Love linen? You won’t want to miss this epic bedlinen sale

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 23:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking for an excuse to refresh your bedroom and treat yourself to some luxurious linen sheets, here it is.

I Love Linen, one of Australia’s most popular premium linen brands, is offering 25% off its coveted linen and bamboo sheet sets, and if you spend over $200 you’ll be treated to a free set of French linen pillowcases.

The sale spans I Love Linen‘s entire range of 20+ colours, including the ever-popular Gingham, Sandalwood, Marine Blue Stripe, Mustard, and Lilac, that are designed to be mixed and matched.

I Love Linen’s Marine Blue Stripe sheet set is perfect for creating a calm, coastal-inspired aesthetic.

While linen is what the brand is best known for, their bamboo sheets are fast becoming just as popular thanks to their unrivaled softness, hypoallergenic and antibacterial features and luxurious look and feel.

Soft, silky and eco-friendly, too, I Love Linen’s bamboo bedding is fast becoming a hot favourite.

Established in 2013, I Love Linen is now Australia’s go-to for linen bedding thanks to the brand’s focus on designing high-quality bedding in an array of timeless colours to suit all interior styles and palettes.

“We have seen linen become so popular in recent years, but as one of the pioneer brands to work with this beautiful fabric we have the heritage and design knowledge to ensure we can source the best quality for our design-minded community,” says I Love Linen founder, Lauren Roe.

When is the I Love Linen sale happening?

It’s on right now, for a limited time only. So, get in quick before your favourites sell out. And if you need inspiration on what to shop during the sale, below we’ve gathered our top picks from the brand so you can have an easy check-out process.

Happy shopping!

Our top picks for the I Love Linen sale

French flax linen double sided quilt cover in creme/beige gingham, from $187.50 (usually $250)

We can never get over our love for anything gingham. This gorgeous quilt cover set is stonewashed for that ready-to-sleep-in feel and is perfect for any cottage-inspired abodes.

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French flax linen sheet set in match, from $228.75 (usually $305)

Consisting of one linen sheet and a fitted sheet, this sheet set from I Love Linen is deliciously soft – perfect for afternoon naps and Sunday morning sleep-ins. In a gorgeous matcha-green, it’s our bedding of choice when Springtime comes along.

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French flax linen pillowcase set in Sandalwood, $52.43 (usually $69.90)

Rest your pretty head on a soft 100 per cent French flax linen pillowcase from I Love Linen. We’re obsessed with this neutral sandalwood-terracotta hue that will look right at home in any modern bedroom, we’ll be adding this to cart, immediately.

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French flax linen quilt cover set in white, $202.50 (usually $270)

You can never go wrong with a crisp white sheet set. Instantly create a sense of calm and tranquility in any bedroom with this French flax linen sheet set. The set features one premium French linen quilt cover with linen tie closures and a matching standard pillowcase set so you can start diving into your deepest slumber, ASAP.

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The post Love linen? You won’t want to miss this epic bedlinen sale appeared first on Homes To Love.

A sprawling, sunlit new build in the Byron Bay Hinterland

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 03:30:00 +0000

The options are endless when you build from scratch, but Sally McGarry had a very specific home in mind when she and husband Matt built this sprawling pavilion in the Byron Bay hinterland. “Our main intention was to capture the essence of my grandparents’ home, the Fenner House, a mid-century home designed by Robin Boyd and commissioned by my grandfather, Frank Fenner,” Sally says.

ON THE MARKET

Although this home (dubbed Las Palmas) was sold in November 2021 for $8.2 million, it has just been put back on the market with an undisclosed price guide. The six-bedroom, four-bathroom home is currently also available for stays via Airbnb, setting guests back just shy of $2000 per night. You can view the real estate listing (and express your interest if you’re so inclined) via realestate.com.au.

The family of five enjoy casual meals at the Sarah Ellison ‘Earth’ table with a linen ball pendant from The Society Inc hanging overhead. Among the sculptural ceramics are pieces from Kas Australia, Clo Studios, Nikau Store and Soft Edge Studio. Florals from The Flower Bar.

“As a child, I spent most afternoons there, climbing trees, picking fruit and making cubby houses in the shrubs and wisteria. The extensive use of glass, the connection to the garden and different functional zones were all memorable features to me, and we wanted to carry them through to the design of our house.”

The couple went for a mix of textured materials including blackbutt cabinetry, brushed brass door handles from Lo & Co, brass and rattan pendants by Tigmi Trading and Caesarstone ‘Airy’ concrete for the benchtops and splashback. “There’s lots of storage to maintain our minimalistic aesthetic and hide the mess,” Sally says.

The couple worked with good friends Kirrili Zimmer and Teneil Van Dyck from DUO Architects to form the initial concept before inviting local Byron firm Davis Architects to collaborate on the final design.

A rug and tables from Tigmi Trading create an intimate zone within the open plan space.

Like Fenner House, this home, named Las Palmas, is divided into two wings – one for entertaining and the other for sleeping – each orientated to take full advantage of the site’s natural light, cool breezes and rolling views.

Sally has filled her home with a mix of second-hand and new pieces, including a Tigmi Trading rug, a modular sofa from HK Living and a Sarah Ellison coffee table. “Sarah’s collection seems to match my style perfectly.” The curvy chair is from Byron Bay Hanging Chairs. The throw, white square cushion and ceramic objects are all from Nikau Store. The bolster is from Clo Studios.

“It features the same elongated roofline, large expanse of glazing, modernist lines and passive orientation as the Fenner House,” Sally tells.

Concrete floors and natural cross ventilation keep the dual-aspect living space cool in summer, while the centrally located fireplace keeps it toasty come winter. All internal walls are painted in Dulux ‘Natural White’.

However, as the homes were built 67 years apart, there are some obvious differences – namely, the roof- and ground-mounted solar energy systems installed by Matt’s company MTS Group and an infinity edge swimming pool nestled into the hillside.

A timber bookcase is built into the stone-clad wall, which “was our nod to the mid-century architecture,” Sally says.

“It reflects the contrasting locations and lifestyles led by our family today and my grandparents in the past,” Sally reflects.

Travel tomes add a touch of summery style to the Sarah Ellison coffee table.

Sally went for a minimalist aesthetic so as not to detract from the clean lines of the mid-century architecture and the surrounding landscape, with the addition of different textures and vintage pieces for warmth and interest.

Brushed brass details feature throughout the home and are a nod to the ’70s. The ceramic and candles on the bench are from Nikau Store.

The burnished concrete flooring throughout was chosen for its slightly patchy appearance, which feels amazing underfoot, while blackbutt timber cladding in the kitchen contrasts the concrete benchtops and brushed brass hardware.

A textural, neutral palette of mosaic tiles in the bathroom ties in with the rest of the home and the view from the window.

Lighting is deliberately kept simple: “We wanted to see the ‘effect’ of the light without seeing the light itself,” Sally says.

The white ceramic item is from Nikau Store and the Byredo products are from Mecca. Henderson Custom Carpentry created all of the bathroom vanities.

The result is a laidback home with an intimate connection to the land and the perfect blend of indoor/outdoor living. “Dinners are eaten outside taking in the views, the pool is used year round and outdoor movie nights are a regular occurrence,” Sally tells.

With three young boys in this household the laundry gets a good workout, and Sally’s is equipped with a functional layout and lots of bench space. The Caesarstone concrete and Lo & Co door handles continue here, with a brushed brass sink and tapware for added impact. A mirror from Marr-kett, a ceramic object from Nikau and Dior hand soap adorn the laundry benchtop.

“When we come home, we feel relaxed – like the weight of the world has been lifted.”

My bedroom is my sanctuary,” Sally tells. “I love lying in bed taking in the view. It’s the perfect spot to watch a storm roll in; I find it hard to draw the curtains.” She chose a Byron Bay Hanging Chairs bedhead to decorate the space. The peach-coloured bed cover is from In Bed Store, the bolster cushion is from Clo Studios and the side table is from Tigmi Trading. The ceramic vessel is from Nikau Store and the Byredo fragrance is from Mecca.

Style tip: While most toys are best stored in a chest, a wall shelf is a great place for kids to show-off their prized possessions.

“Being a little out of town, we had a bunk room constructed, making it easier to accommodate extra friends after evenings of entertaining,” Sally says of the fun bedroom. The throws and print on the bottom shelf are from Nikau, the pink cushion is from Tigmi Trading and the bag is from Marr-kett.

how to create a passive energy home

1. Give careful consideration to the layout and orientation of your home to take best advantage of natural sunlight and cross ventilation.

2. Concrete flooring has a high thermal mass, drawing in heat from the sun during winter and storing it into the evening, and vice versa in summer.

3. Use textiles to help control the interior temp. Curtains and shutters block out the heat and cold, while thick rugs will take the chill out of concrete floors.

It was love at first sight when the couple first stepped foot on the vacant block. “The open space, the hinterland view and the sunset orientation – we knew this was the one the moment we arrived,” she reflects.

An infinity swimming pool surrounded by Fibonacci Stone pavers connects the entertaining wing to the rolling hills and blue skies beyond. “Most days start (and end) with a dive into the pool,” Sally says. The towel on the sunlounge is from Tigmi Trading.

The kitchen was designed to have a great visual connection with other areas within the home. “I can be in the kitchen preparing food while watching the kids in the pool or through to their bedrooms and play area,” says homeowner Sally McGarry.

The post A sprawling, sunlit new build in the Byron Bay Hinterland appeared first on Homes To Love.

How to design your small laundry to be packed with storage

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 05:58:00 +0000

In most Australian homes, having a small laundry is simply a fact of life. But what they lack in size, they sure makes up for in hard work, meaning mess can get out of control – fast! Keeping your laundry clean and clutter-free comes down to smart storage.

Small laundries can present a number of challenges. Apart from having limited workspace or even room to move around in, compact laundries often have poor ventilation (especially if you use a clothes dryer) and lack storage options.

In tight spaces, make the most of what room you have by planning storage vertically. Maximise a tall, narrow laundry with ceiling-high joinery that can accommodate your dryer. Use all available walls and doors for hanging space, stack appliances and install cabinets ceiling-high.

Small laundry ideas: A practical laundry is clutter-free, so store supplies in baskets on shelving and leave space for hampers under benches.

(Photographer: Armelle Habib)

The good news is you don’t need to redesign your entire laundry to make doing the washing quicker and easier. Use some stylish laundry hampers to colour code dirty items, and add a shelving unit with basket inserts to separate each person’s clean clothes.

An expandable rack can be used to dry and hang clothes before they’re ironed (and won’t take up much space), and labelled tins will keep your laundry products in order and your benchtop clear.

SMALL LAUNDRY ROOM STORAGE IDEAS

A collapsible clothes rack will dry delicate items and folds up when not in use.
Use the backs of doors to hang your ironing board or a long, multi-pocket organiser for pegs, odd socks and sewing kits.
Keep benches clear of cleaning products. This space is better utilised for sorting and folding clothes.
Baskets are a stylish storage solution in laundries with open shelving. Use them to hold pegs and detergents or to keep your clean and dirty items separate.
Instead of hiding washing powders in the cupboard, display them in pretty jars on a shelf with clean linen.

Use all available walls and doors for hanging space. It will make a huge difference!

(Photographer: Brett Stevens)

LAUNDRY STORAGE ESSENTIALS

From baskets to clever clothes racks and stylish storage baskets, here’s what we can’t live without in our laundries.

Laundry caddy

Shelton 3-tier metal storage trolley in Grey, $59.95, Temple & Webster

No cupboard? No worries. Your problems are solved with this cost-effective and portable solution from Temple & Webster. A classic design made of heavy-duty stainless steel and in several colours, this trolley has lockable wheels, too — so there’s no chance of any little ones taking it for a joy ride.

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stacking baskets

Stacking folding storage baskets, $16.50/four pack, Amazon

These clever stacking baskets not only look super pretty in their pastel colours, but they’re also a small laundry-owners best friend. They’re designed to stack securely when in use, and when they’re not, you can fold them down and easily store away.

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Laundry hamper

Joseph Joseph Tota laundry basket 60L in Ecru, $101.97 (usually $169.95) , Myer

Sometimes, a single laundry hamper just isn’t enough — which is where this ingenous option by Joseph Joseph comes in. With two built-in hampers, you can separate your clothes in lights and darks, and simply lift each out before carrying to the washing machine.

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raffia cabinet

RAFFLES robe, $1699, Freedom

Washing powder, fabric softener, stain removers and soaks can quickly create visual clutter in the laundry. If your laundry is severely lacking built-in storage, consider investing in a cabinet to ensure your everyday cleaning essentials stay hidden.

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Felt basket

Fair trade felt basket with star, $125, Hard To Find

Hand made in Nepal by skilled artisans, with 100% sheep wool, this very special basket will add texture and warmth to an otherwise pretty utilitarian laundry space. It can also be moved easily if the toys are getting out of control in the living room!

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Laundry hamper

Home Republic Masai natural laundry hamper, from $69.99, Adairs

Don’t let your washing pile become an eyesore. Keep the mess contained in this stylish hamper with matching lid, woven from palm leaves. There is also a matching laundry basket.

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Bamboo and glass storage jars

Ecology pantry 17.5cm glass cannister, $39.95/set of 3, Temple & Webster

If you’d prefer to keep laundry essentials where you can easily reach them, don’t let clashing branded boxes and bottles ruin an otherwise on-point laundry aesthetic. This 3-piece set will look great, especially if you sweet label stickers to each jar.

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Bondi wash

Bondi Wash laundry wash in Tasmanian pepper and lavender, $22 (500mL), The Iconic

OK, so this isn’t so much a storage solution as a gorgeous product to grace your laundry shelf. The concentrated, plant-based, non-toxic laundry detergent lasts up to 50 hand washes or 25 machine washes It’s a win-win: less clutter taking over your laundry and less waste taking over the planet!

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woven baskets

Dutton shelf basket, from $9.97 (usually $39.95), Pillow Talk

Open laundry shelving can quickly look untidy when products, blankets and other items start to pile up. Keeping like items stored together in stylish baskets will not only look neater, it will allow for easy retrieval of items as well. This style comes in two handy sizes.

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Broom and mop holder

4 pack broom holder, $6, Kmart

Is a collection of brooms, mops, feather dusters and cleaning brushes causing chaos in a corner of your laundry? Get everything off the floor with these broom and mop holders. They come in a four pack and are perfect for keeping the garden shed and garage organised too!

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The post How to design your small laundry to be packed with storage appeared first on Homes To Love.

How to be a minimalist and live with less

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 03:22:00 +0000

Ironically, the very concept of minimalism – living with fewer possessions – seems to be associated with whole countries: Sweden, Denmark, Japan. You don’t have to move to the northern hemisphere to be a staunch minimalist, but you might find you have to relocate. (At the very least, move outside your comfort zone…)

Becoming minimalists was certainly a mental and geographical shift for Inga and Mike Campbell who, a few years ago, made a move that would change their lives forever. “We lived in [inner-city suburbs] Surry Hills and Darlinghurst in Sydney, and loved being in the thick of it,” Mike says.

On a fortuitous trip to Newcastle on the New South Wales coast, they stumbled upon an open house that ended up being theirs less than a week later.

“We left our jobs that we loved [Inga was the art director at a fashion magazine and Mike was the national publicity manager at Universal Music], and moved up three months later. Just like that.”

And so the shift began, albeit in a thoroughly undesigned way. “In retrospect, and without knowing it at the time, this was the start of our minimalist journey,” Inga reflects. “Even though we didn’t know what minimalism was back then, we had made the decision to put lifestyle and a lower mortgage first. But that was just the beginning.”

Along with her family, Inga Campbell, founder of Inkling Design, spent years purging 80% of their belongings in the name of a cleaner, simpler life.

How Inga and Mike discovered minimalism

The spark was ignited a few months later when Mike discovered a TED Talk, which now boasts more than 4 million views. “There was this guy, Ryan, who had a packing party,” he says.

“He packed up his entire apartment – clothes, furniture, toiletries, everything – like he was moving house, and then only took out items as he needed them. After 21 days, everything that was still in boxes he sold or donated – more than 80% of his possessions – and he had never felt better.

So, I came home one evening and asked Inga if she wanted to play the minimalism game with me – we’d both find one item on the first day we wanted to purge. On the second day, we’d find two items we didn’t want any more. On the third day we’d find three, and so forth for 30 days.”

“After that, we decided to go through the whole house and we eventually purged more than half of our belongings, and we honestly never felt happier,” Inga says.

Minimalism: A BRAVE NEW WORLD

Most surprisingly, this sudden shedding of objects freed the Campbells up for escapades they didn’t even know they wanted. “One evening, Inga suggested we live in North America for a year. A thought that only months earlier would have seemed ridiculous, we now gave considerable consideration because we never had to think, ‘What are we going to do with all of our stuff?'” Mike says.

It was an idea that proved too hard to disregard and the family set off for 12 months on the road. “The special sauce of living with less is the mental space it generates,” Mike explains. “While we were travelling we didn’t have TV for six months and we realised how little we missed it. Apart from the odd movie, we don’t watch it at home anymore. From the moment we started on this minimalist journey to now, we’ve purged almost 80% of our belongings.”

“Even though we didn’t know what minimalism was back then, we had made the decision to put lifestyle and a lower mortgage first.”

THE HARDEST PART

The hardest thing to part with? The Campbells’ record collection. “This was a hard one to part with as the vinyl had a connection to our past lives, our past careers,” Mike says. “Getting rid of that was like saying goodbye to our old selves – even though that chapter had finished years earlier. We were still holding on to it by holding on to all this stuff. Now we just listen to all our music digitally.”

HOW TO LIVE MINIMALLY WITH KIDS

Inga and Mike have a daughter, Andy, and culling worldly possessions with a small human in tow isn’t the easiest of tasks. “You can definitely pull out the parent card and start throwing away whatever toys you don’t like,” Mike says. “But we all know that isn’t going to go down well, and you’ll just tighten your kid’s bond to possessions!”

The answer, the Campbells reckon, is letting them come to you. “When we first played the 30-day game, we didn’t ask our daughter Andy if she wanted to join in, we simply collected our items each evening,” Inga says. “She was curious and asked us what we were doing,” Mike adds.

“I said, ‘Mummy and I feel like we have too many things, so we’re collecting the ones we don’t use to donate them. Do you have any toys you want to donate to children less fortunate?’

“I went into her room and she handed me a few toys she didn’t play with anymore. But what was even more beautiful was a few days later when she brought out a whole pile of toys she wanted to donate. Even now she will come up, hand me a toy and say, ‘You can give this to the kids, Dad. I don’t play with it much.'”

Quality over quantity is key to embracing minimalism.

Minimalism can help you spend less money

Downsizing their mortgage, their belongings and even their wages hasn’t been as terrifying as the Campbells expected. “One of the biggest eye-openers has been money,” Mike says. “We’re not adverse to spending money – we’re more than happy to spend it on experiences, skiing, weekends away, that sort of thing – but we don’t worry about the ‘things’ that used to consume us.”

Asked if they miss anything, Inga and Mike smile before shaking their heads. “Not at all,” Mike says. “I think this is how life is meant to be.” If that isn’t a convincing catalyst for a garage sale, we don’t know what is.

“We still have all the basic necessities, we just don’t have multiples of them,” explains Inga. Case in point: this perfectly restrained minimalist kitchen.

How to be a minimalist

“It doesn’t matter where but just start,” Mike says. “The key is momentum. Start small, a drawer, handbag, desk. It really doesn’t matter. Just start with one item. Inga and I started with our wardrobe. Like everything in life, but especially with our clothes, the 80/20 rule applies. Essentially, we wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time.”

As for where to donate your unwanted goods, look for charity and church shops as well as women’s and homeless shelters. Some will even come and collect items, such as furniture, whitegoods and soft furnishings, directly from your home.

The post How to be a minimalist and live with less appeared first on Homes To Love.

At home with I Love Linen founder, Lauren Roe

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 14:00:00 +0000

The sight of kangaroos bounding across the one-hectare property is what greets Lauren Roe each morning as she sips her coffee and prepares for the day ahead. The setting is as idyllic as they come, nestled in the Queensland hinterland with rainbow lorikeets and kookaburras stopping by for a feed while the occasional koala crawls past. .

It’s a world away from the small Melbourne dwelling that Lauren and her partner Andrew left behind in 2015. But the tree change proved life-changing as well, inspiring Lauren in the creative pursuits she had nurtured for the previous three years. “I wanted to create a business that was reflective of my own style and to introduce linen bedding to the Australian market,” she says, explaining that she had been on maternity leave when she created I Love Linen. “I thought maybe I’d be going back to my corporate job – but the business took off.”

I Love Linen started as a maternity leave passion project and has fast become one of Australia’s most loved linen labels.

Lauren’s natural surrounds inspire her collections and colourways.

NATURAL HUES

I Love Linen has a huge range of linen tablecloths and napkins in a array of different colours and patterns to make any table setting look effortlessly elegant.

The shades visible through Lauren’s louvre windows often pop up in the colours of the linen she sells, such as the sage of native leaves, marine blue skies and the ochre of the dirt. The presence of nature suits her style, which she describes as bush modernism. “I’ve always loved the clean lines of modernism and I’m such a nature lover, so it brings two things that make me happy together,” she says.

Texture and colour are what make a home feel warm and inviting. Here, a quilted coverlet makes this nook nice and cosy.

QUALITY FIRST

Ultimately, Lauren wants Australians to reframe their relationship with linen. “People say, ‘These are my good linen sheets, that’s my nice tablecloth.’ They’re just your sheets that you enjoy and invest in.” High-quality materials aren’t cheap but, used every day, they are well worth the price tag. As Lauren puts it, if you sleep well, you live well.

A French flax linen quilt cover set in Daisy paired with I Love Linen’s Clay gingham pillowcases creates a playful look in this bedroom.

4 ways to decorate with linen

Be bold with colour That doesn’t mean bright – a subtle, soft shade will do. Colour is a natural mood enhancer. Tie the tones to shades in a piece of artwork or furniture in the room.

Size up Always buy a doona one size up from your actual bed size. This makes the bed look more inviting and cosy. It also gives you more doona to snuggle under, so it’s functional, too.

Forget thread count – linen is all about GSM (or grams per square metre). The higher the GSM, the denser the fabric. Thinner linen could be at a higher risk of wear and tear.

Layer your home Linen isn’t just at home inside the bedroom. It can be used as throws and cushion covers on lounges, as well as on dining tables as tablecloths and napkins. Versatile!

The French flax linen quilt cover in Matcha is refreshing and calming all at once and complements the artwork above the bed.

The post At home with I Love Linen founder, Lauren Roe appeared first on Homes To Love.

A calming family home in Sydney’s east with blush tones

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 05:13:00 +0000

“I think there’s a ‘warrior-woman’ energy in my house with all the girls, so we wanted the space to be very relaxed,” says Sam, who lives with her husband Michael, their three young daughters and their dog in a semi-detached home overlooking the ocean.

Sam engaged Shona McElroy of Smac Studio for the design and emphasised that she’d like the home to have a calming energy to balance the family’s vivacity, while making the most of space and light. Practicality for the kids was also top of mind.

Guest glam: The powder room is Sam’s favourite. Shona gave it a curved ceiling to mask that it’s under the stairs and used Venetian plaster in blush for the ceiling, and walls with panelled mirrors above and below the vanity. The Monet marble vanity is described by Sam as “an absolute piece of art. It was just sort of the finishing touch.” Shona brought in ambient lighting with a swinging pendant light from Spence & Lyda.

ON THE MARKET

This gorgeous family home — the combined work of VRM Architects, Smac Studio and Dangar Barin Smith — was recently listed for sale. Enjoying day-long sunshine, a heated mineral swimming pool, chefs’ kitchen and a blushing pink powder room, the relatively newly built property is the pinnacle of modern luxury.

Listed by Elliott Placks and Reuben Dunn of Ray White Double Bay, the four-bedroom Dover Heights residence was set to go to auction on May 25 2023, and reportedly sold shortly after for around the guiding price of $6.5 million. See more.

A new build with some design challenges

Even though the home was a new build, there were still some adjustments to be made before Sam’s interior goals could be realised. “There’s always challenges with the build,” admits Sam. “I think one of the biggest things is that you have your architectural plan, and then once they start building, the space is never exactly as it’s been mapped out.”

Sam had the foresight to bring Shona in at the development application stage and, thankfully, Shona was able to bring her architectural skills to the project. The powder room under the stairs wasn’t fitting so it was redone and given a curved roof. A wall was cut from the entrance to bring in natural light down the staircase, and the children’s bath was moved seven times to make everything fit.

“That was unbelievable,” says Sam. “I don’t think anyone could have done that but Shona… she is a spatial acrobat.”

Practical magic: “The whole kitchen is very easy to clean, and that was part of the brief to Shona… because you know how kids are,” says Sam. Palladian marble with blush and bronze veining was chosen for the kitchen counters, which offered just the right balance of aesthetic appeal and usability. “Everything is as elegant as it can be, and at the same time really practical,” confirms Sam.

It’s all white — even with young kids

While it can be a risky choice opting for lighter shades of furniture with a house full of young children, Sam points out that, “although we used light colours we used special fabrics that are basically indestructible, so it all just sort of wipes off. We took all of that into consideration.”

Let me entertain you! With the family regularly hosting up to 50 people, the bar was a must-have requirement of Michael’s. Shona backed the bar with an antique French mirror and completed the shelving with curved bronze rails for a classic touch. Sam and Michael chose lights from Coco Republic for the dining area, adding a sculptural curve and a beautiful halo effect above the dining table.

An earthy, neutral palette with a hint of pink

Sam’s original colour brief included a lot of earthy, neutral tones, which Shona adhered to closely, with one exception — she suggested adding blush for a bit more colour. The elegant powder room displays this comforting hue, with blush also running through the marble in the kitchen counters and the bathroom tiles. The end result is a dream come true for Sam and her family.

“I couldn’t be happier. Every little detail in this house was so agonised over. I wouldn’t change a single thing. I love it… When you walk in, you get a sense of light and comfort and an easy feeling, which is exactly what we wanted,” says Sam.

Totally lit: The curved staircase leading to the entryway by the kitchen is flooded with natural light, and a Rousseau asymmetric pendant from Kelly Wearstler hangs beautifully by the stairs.

The bench seat in the kitchen serves the dual purpose of providing ample lounging space for the family while adding storage. The niche above the seat was created especially to showcase Sam and Michael’s growing collection of sentimental pieces that they’ve gathered over the years.

Dressed for success: The bespoke dressing table in the main bedroom is where Sam braids her daughters’ hair. “I have memories of my gran’s dresser with her beautiful bottles of perfume and silver brushes,” she says. “It was a special, magical place where I’d sit each night while she did my hair. Maybe one day my girls will feel the same way about this dressing table.”

3 ways to bring beauty to the bathroom

1 Bring in the light. In this home, floor-to-ceiling windows with sheer curtains give the main bathroom a soft, luxurious look while providing privacy.

2 Add brass. It doesn’t have to be brass faucets — brass mirror frames, towel hooks or even trinket trays can add an easy dash of style.

3 Consider statement lighting. Here, vintage Murano sconces bring a hint of old-school glamour to the main bathroom.

Sheer bliss: The main bathroom originally had high, small windows so Shona replaced them with floor to-ceiling fluted glass plus James Dunlop curtains.

The vintage Murano glass sconces (which you can see in the mirror’s reflection) were a specific request by Sam. “I really wanted something old in my house. I didn’t want it to feel like one of those over-modern houses that have no soul.”

who lives here?

Sam and Michael and their three daughters. Interior design is by Shona McElroy, Smac Studio.

smacstudio.com.au | @smac_studio

In the main bedroom, the custom-designed bed, featuring built-in lighting and side tables, is upholstered in the same lovely pale linen as the door panels of the wardrobe. Designer Shona allocated space between the bed and the wardrobe doors to serve as a neat dressing area. The bed is completed with cushions from Great Dane Furniture and Montmartre store, a bolster cushion from House of Ise, and a throw from Tigger Hall Design.

Homeowners Sam and Michael opted for a neutral palette with a highlight of blush. “We tried to incorporate it everywhere that we could,” says Sam. “The blush colour is supposed to be very calming. It’s the colour that you see when you’re in the womb and it’s supposed to make you feel warm and calm and at home. It was a huge part of what we wanted in keeping everything light and bright.” Here, a vessel from Spence & Lyda and a dish from Palmer & Penn sit on the Palladian marble kitchen counter with blush veining.

The post A calming family home in Sydney’s east with blush tones appeared first on Homes To Love.

A Mediterranean-inspired oasis designed by Three Birds Renovations

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 02:10:00 +0000

When you’re a mum with a business to run — and also the “fourth bird” at Three Birds Renovations — the juggle is most definitely real.

So when Sophie Bell, who’s also owner and director of bespoke creative design agency Peppa Hart Studio, and her husband, Michael, had the chance to build their dream home from scratch, they decided to create somewhere that provided a sanctuary for their family, as well as an inspiring place for Sophie and her staff to work.

They aptly named it ‘Casa Campana’, which roughly translates to ‘Bell House’.

Concrete with a rough finish was used for the benchtops and doors under the island. The cabinets are white-washed timber and brass taco handles were custom made by CJ Anderson.

The couple used cost-effective IKEA cabinetry in the walk-in wardrobe, with flooring laid in a herringbone pattern for a luxe touch. The Savannah arched mirror is from Salt X Steele.

ON THE MARKET

Casa Campana was sold by Sophie and Michael for $3.3 million in June 2022 (which broke property records for the Nunderi region, an inland paradise just 40 minutes north of Byron Bay).

The new owners opened the property for short stays, and in the year they’ve owned it, there have been a multitude of weddings, photoshoots, and even a television series hosted at the villa — it was one of the locations where FBOY Australia was filmed this year.

And now, it’s up for grabs again. With an overseas opportunity beckoning the new owners, they’ve listed the creamy, curvy Casa Campana up to expressions of interest. It’s the perfect opportunity for a family wanting to escape the city, secure a holiday home, or someone looking for a sound investment. Find out more.

The couple bought a lush block of land in the northern hinterlands of NSW in early 2017, and immediately got planning. As digital manager for Three Birds Renovations, Sophie was able to call on the team’s expertise when designing the home, which was heavily influenced by the Mediterranean.

“Greece and Italy hold special memories for us. We wanted our home to give us the same feeling we get when we’re at a beautiful beach bar in Europe,” says Sophie.

“The key features to achieving this authentic look were the rendered surfaces, arched windows and doorways, and a lot of white paint,” adds Lana Taylor, director at Three Birds Renovations. “Curves and circles added to the vibe.”

For Sophie, entering what she describes as the “art gallery foyer” sets the tone for the rest of the house. Holiday snaps from her favourite getaways take pride of place and are available from her website.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Casa Campana (@casa__campana)

style tip

“A vision board is always the first step in any reno project, no matter how big or small. Think of it as your guiding light towards renovation success.” Lana Taylor, Three Birds Renovations.

A distinct Mediterranean flavour runs through this home, including the dining space. A Cupid dining table and Loop bench seat, both from The Wood Room, are flanked by classic Le Corbusier chairs, while a Côte Salt linen pendant hangs above. The Beach of Isola Bella, Sicily print by Damian Bennett and rug from House of Orange also fit the brief.

Energy-efficiency was also a high priority for Sophie and Michael, so instead of traditional brick or timber, they built the entire home from a form of high-density polystyrene called NRG Greenboard.

“It’s lightweight, cost-effective and suitable for use in BAL29 fire-rated areas, because it contains fire retardant,” Lana explains. Along with its insulating properties, “it can also be shaped easily, which we did to create the arches that are integral to the design of this home, then it’s rendered for a seamless finish”.

To capture the Mediterranean vibe, exterior walls were painted with Dulux Casper White Quarter, and Dulux White on White was used throughout the interior.

A few Salsie Dalton sofas from Freedom are joined together to make a “mega couch” in the living area. Outside, House of Orange hanging chairs are the perfect place to sip cocktails from the Sunday Society Miami Keys bar cart.

A custom bench seat from Concrete Nation blends seamlessly into the wall around the family’s breakfast nook. The soft white-washed timber of the Freedom ‘Cove’ table complements the engineered timber flooring, chosen for its durability and cost-effectiveness, while Piccolo stools sit on top of the Khofri rug – both also from Freedom.

The couple chose a simple floor plan for this home, a “big rectangle” featuring a long, central hallway with bedrooms, a media room and bathrooms branching off. The hallway leads into a large, open-plan kitchen and living space, while upstairs you’ll find an epic master suite and what used to be Sophie’s enviable home office.

A raised platform and built-in bedhead give the main bedroom a decidedly palatial feel.

The butler’s pantry offers an abundance of storage.

A neutral palette’s been used throughout, along with plenty of texture. Living tumbled brass — chosen for its patina — was used for all tapware and handles, alongside timber furniture and warm, earthy tones in the bedlinen and many of Sophie’s framed photographs from her European travels.

The main bathroom was inspired by the indoor/outdoor bathrooms of Bali and includes bi-fold doors that open to the large wrap-around balcony surrounded by lush greenery. “It’s fun for kids,” says Sophie. The family’s dogs would sit and play with her children while they were in the bath. Cute!

The couple introduced colour in the bathrooms via warm-toned Bondi Encaustic tiles from Tile Cloud.

“We didn’t want the house feeling new and modern, so we rendered as many surfaces as possible,” Sophie adds. Her verdict on the finished product? “It’s heavenly.” Instant calm awaits whoever’s lucky enough to walk through that door.

The heated Enviroswim pool doesn’t require any chemicals. “The fresh water is so nice and great for kids,” says Sophie.

The post A Mediterranean-inspired oasis designed by Three Birds Renovations appeared first on Homes To Love.

11 eco-friendly home additions to invest in right now

Fri, 26 May 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Looking for achievable ways to live a more sustainable life? Fill your home with eco-friendly and ethically designed products and know you’re doing your bit for a healthier, happier planet. Here are some of our favourite designers and their planet-positive products paving the way on the eco-design front.

DREAM CLOTHS

Dream Cloth (set of 3), $12, Who Gives A Crap

One part sponge, one part cloth. This cloth set by Who Gives A Crap is the reusable (and washable) paper towel alternative you’ve been looking for. They’re perfect for soaking up spills or wiping down appliances and countertops.

SHOP NOW

COMPOSTABLE COFFEE PODS

Dingo Republic Australia organic coffee pods (40-pack), $36.75, Amazon

Nespresso compatible coffee pods that are great for your morning kick and great for the planet. Dingo’s organic coffee pods are 100 per cent biodegradable and compostable. It’s also Fairtrade and organic, packed locally in Australia.

SHOP NOW

CLEAN UP THE SEA

Jumbo silicone zip lock bag bundle, $260, Hardtofind

Single-use zip lock bags are not only bad for the planet, but they are also flimsy and prone to unwanted spills. That’s why opting for a reusable version – namely these jumbo-sized silicone bags – is a great choice. This bundle includes four different sized bags (500ml, 1000ml, 1500ml, and 2500ml), and two four-litre bags for larger items.

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Produce bags

The Swag fabric produce bags starter pack, $99 (usually $113.96), The Swag

With the average Australian household throwing away over $2,000 worth of food each year, These plastic-free, reusable, machine-washable and compostable food storage and produce bags are an easy eco-friendly swap that you should definitely consider. They’re also scientifically proven to keep fruit and vegetables fresh for two weeks or more (when also stored in the crisper of the fridge). So, be gone flimsy plastic produce bags at your local grocer and say ‘hello’ to your new grocery shop companion.

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TOUCH OF TIMBER

Round oak wooden wall hooks, $24.95, Etsy

Handmade in Australia, these wooden wall hooks are available in a range of sizes. Easily mountable using 3M command hooks making this a great option for renters.

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RECYCLED MATERIALS

Allegra abstract tribal PET rug, $199, Miss Amara

This multi-coloured number adds a sense of cosiness to any room with its warm tones. Hand-woven using 100 percent recycled PET fibres in a no pile flatweave design, it’s the sustainable and low maintenance rug you’ve been searching for.

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KEEP IT LOCAL

Pandanus gym bag by Alicia Mardday, $1368, Koskela

Koskela founders Russel and Sasha “believe in more than the bottom line and want to be remembered for our commitment to have a positive impact”. As such, their furniture, homewares and lighting products are designed to last (reducing landfill), and their ongoing collaborations with Aboriginal and Torres-Strait Islander artists and weavers help support Indigenous communities.

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BEESWAX WRAPS

Illustrated beeswax food wraps (set of 3), $40, Hardtofind

In Australia, we produce an average of 650kg waste per person, per year. So, instead of using plastic, wrap your food in beeswax reusable food wraps.

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CONSCIOUS COFFEE

Fressko Bino 8oz reusable coffee cup, $34.95, THE ICONIC

It’s estimated Aussies throw away one billion disposable coffee cups every year; a shocking figure considering the number could be zero. With beautiful reusable cups like this one from Fressko, we have no excuse for not BYO-ing our own cups and diverting billions of disposable (and often not biodegradable) cups from landfill.

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BYO BAG

Highlands Bilum Bags, from $315, Among Equals

Founded by textile designer Caroline Sherman, Among Equals is an online store and collection of artisanal bilum bags hand-woven by the women of the Papua New Guinea highlands. Profits from the social enterprise go towards supporting the weaving communities in PNG, and the women who work there.

SHOP NOW

SAVE THE TREES

Everyday Binder, $55, Everyday Binder Grid Insert, $15, Everyday Binder Jotter Insert, $12, Supply Paper Co

Known for her delicate and thoughtful stationery, Jessie creates every piece by hand from her home studio, guided by the principles of sustainability and simplicity. “Every design, every piece of paper, every package from Supply Paper Co goes through my hands,” she says. “That in itself means a lot to me.”

SHOP NOW

The post 11 eco-friendly home additions to invest in right now appeared first on Homes To Love.

A Gold Coast home that takes renovating with render to a stunning new level of success

Tue, 23 May 2023 00:39:00 +0000

You won’t see much hanging on the walls of this one-of-a-kind home in Burleigh Waters on Queensland’s Gold Coast. “The art is in the render – the house is the art,” says Emma Sweeny, who designed and created the unique abode known as Ruin X with her partner Matt Jamieson.

The entrepreneurial couple were looking for a large-scale application after launching their furniture range Object X, which was inspired by Matt’s market-leading render company Render X. “This was our first renovation and we absolutely fell in love with it,” Emma says.

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

“Before we met three years ago, Matt started Render X, which is a globally recognised rendering company,” Emma says. “Once we got together, we started Object X, which is a rendered furniture line.” The couple are now embarking on yet another renovation.

ON THE MARKET

Ruin X is on the market…again! The radically rendered home that took Instagram by storm last sold at auction just over a year ago, in March 2022, for $2,713,888. Now it’s back on the market with a reported price guide of $3 million. The current owner had planned to use the property as a holiday home, but hasn’t had the time to enjoy it, listing agent Emil Juresic of NGU Real Estate has shared.

The previous owners, Emma Sweeny and her partner (and residential and commercial renderer) Matt Jamieson originally bought the property back in 2020 for $775,000, and transformed it into the trophy home that stands today. Find out more about the listing.

The process involved transforming a 1990s three-bedroom, cream-brick house into a masterpiece in just five months, with rendering on every surface along the way.

Chairs from Love Tree Interiors are perfect for the stunning, sculptural table by Object X, set between the kitchen and sliding glass doors that open to the backyard. Hearts & Bruises mixed media on raw-stretched canvas, framed in custom-painted oak, by Left Bank Art Group, adorns the wall.

Instead of floating shelves, Matt and Emma created a feature wall with specifically shaped niches and a low recess shelf to act as the entertainment unit. “We spent a full day cutting them out and rendering them – we shaped the niches based on the objects we have bought in the last year,” Emma recalls.

“It was four minutes to the beach, it had incredible bones and the size of the land was amazing,” explains Emma, who saw the potential in the humble house on her first viewing. “It’s also a north-facing block. There were just so many things that ticked our boxes and won us over.” Confident in their vision, they wasted no time in getting started.

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

A penchant for bold, brave style is shared by the pair. “Matt and I are both quite eccentric with our fashion, and so we wanted to do a home that was quite eccentric, too,” says Emma. Enlisting local architect Jayson Pate topped their to-do list.

To continue the render into the kitchen cabinetry, the pair were supplied with raw MDF, which Matt then rendered over. Finding the right benchtop was a bigger challenge. “I wanted something incredible and a standout, but I also wanted to complement the render and not to be too busy,” Emma says. She opted for a fine onyx.

“We basically gave him a wishlist of what we wanted,” says Emma. “We knew our style and we did all the interior design, but Jayson really maximised our land properly and knew what would work here.”

Emma makes no apologies for the extensive use of brown, inside and out. “We knew that browns will never date,” she says. “Browns are in, and it creates a soft tone for the home no matter how eccentric it got.”

The magic of render was the muse for Ruin X, although Emma also looked to the usual suspects (Instagram and Pinterest) for some creative encouragement.

“I’ve pulled things from a lot of different places, hoping they would work, but in the end it organically came together through just choosing things that we loved,” she says. “We pulled it all together with the one-coloured render everywhere, and by creating our own furniture.”

A dip after work is always a delight, especially in warmer weather.

Reminiscent of a Mediterranean haven, the master bedroom features an arched doorway to the ensuite and a custom built-in bed by Bradford Constructions, also rendered by Render X. The couple took an unorthodox approach to concealing the exposed ceiling beams of the original house throughout. “Our plasterers had to do a different procedure of wetting the actual plasterboard itself and to curve it and continue that line, and then Matt put render over the top of it,” Emma says.

3 ways to style with texture

Welcome the renaissance of Venetian plaster into your home with a feature wall, an entire room or the whole home.
Embrace natural materials such as stone and wood where possible. Their tactile touch and organic finish will add warmth and visual interest.
Create contrast by pairing golds and beautiful brass accents with more industrial surfaces like stone and concrete.

Curves carry into the powder room, where a freestanding vanity from Concrete Nation is paired with wall-mounted taps from ABI Interiors.

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

Render X is at renderx.com.au and @render.x

Object X is at objectx.com.au and @object.x

The post A Gold Coast home that takes renovating with render to a stunning new level of success appeared first on Homes To Love.

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The best heaters, aircons and fireplaces 2024

Best for large spaces: natural gas heaters

Our top picks for natural gas heaters

Rinnai Avenger natural gas heater

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Our top pick for bioethanol fireplaces

Ghost bioethanol fireplace

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Our top picks for reverse-cycle air conditioners

Panasonic C7 1kW H8.0kW reverse-cycle split system and air purifier

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Best portable heaters: electric heaters

Our top picks for electric heaters

Kambrook 2000W white ceramic tower heater

DeLonghi 2400W oil column heater with timer

A characterful 1849 gaolers’ cottage in Darlinghurst gets a new lease of life

ON THE MARKET

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3 ways to restore with respect

style tip

Inside DISSH’s new Bondi boutique, designed by Brahman Perera

This one-of-a-kind home looks like something straight out of Middle Earth

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Summer Christmas lunch recipes to make this festive season

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BROWN SUGAR PAVLOVA WITH BLACKBERRIES, LEMON AND THYME

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A tasty Christmas pavlova recipe with mango & passionfruit

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