Australia’s beloved linen brand, Cultiver, has released its new collection, Luna, and the subtle, unassuming striped motif seen throughout this collection has unexpectedly caught our attention.

What is the Luna collection?

Luna by Cultiver is a love letter to neutral hues and stripes. From mini cushions to throws, Luna is expertly crafted on a Jacquard loom in Portugal to fit seamlessly into your interior style and decor. With a quality 560GSM construction and 100 per cent pure linen construction, Luna is crafted from only the best—high-quality, OEKO-TEX certified, heavyweight linen.

The Luna collection features a petite-size mini cushion, two lumbar cushions and two matching heavyweight throws. Designed to complement your existing home pieces or to be styled together as a finishing touch. The lumbar cushions and throws are available in striped or solid patterns, while the Luna mini cushion is only available in a solid pattern.

Our favourite picks from Cultiver’s Luna collection

01

Luna stripe throw

$380, Cultiver

Soft and delicate, the Luna stripe throw features a timeless wide horizontal stripe design in neutral beige hues. Finished in a neat border-stitched hem, it’s a luxurious addition to the end of the bed or the couch.

Materials: 100% linen

Key features:

• Made from 100% soft linen
• Woven in Portugal
• 560GSM
• OEKO-TEX certified

Shop Now

02

Luna lumbar cushion in Stripe

$200, Cultiver

Another striped number is this gorgeous lumbar cushion. The beauty is in its intricate detailing. You can style this cushion on a bench seat, breakfast nook, sofa, or layered on your bed.

Materials: 100% linen

Key features:

• Made from 100% soft linen
• Woven in Portugal
• 560GSM
• OEKO-TEX certified

Shop Now

03

Luna mini cushion

$120, Cultiver

Perfect for an occasional chair, armchair, or ontop of your bed. This mini cushion features a solid pattern and is, again, crafted to perfection from 100 per cent soft linen.

Materials: 100% linen

Key features:

• Made from 100% soft linen
• Woven in Portugal
• 560GSM
• OEKO-TEX certified

Shop Now

Our favourite picks to complement Cultiver’s Luna collection

04

Linen duvet cover set in Cedar Stripe

from $410, Cultiver

Embrace the stripes with this linen duvet cover from Cultiver. Finished with a rustic-style button closure, each set is pre-washed for that ultimate soft hand feel; it’s the perfect piece for the modern bedroom.

Materials: 100% linen

Key features:

• Made from 100% soft linen
• Button closure

Shop Now

05

Mira lumbar cushion cover in Enzo

$175, Cultiver

If the subtle striped pattern is not what you’re after, how about this bold option from Cultiver? The Enzo lumbar pillow can be shaped on a bench seat, sofa, or bed. Woven in Portugal with the highest quality heavyweight linen, this lumbar pillow is made to last.

Materials: 100% linen

Key features:

• Made from 100% soft linen
• Bold stripe pattern
• Heavyweight linen
• Woven in Portugal

Shop Now

06

Speckle bath towel

from $90, Cultiver

In a calming neutral hue, this speckled design bath towel will turn your bathtime into a spa-like experience. Woven in Turkey from OEKO-TEX-certified organic cotton, it’s a soft and luxurious addition to any home or bathroom.

Materials: 100% organic cotton

Key features:

• Made from 100% organic cotton
• Speckled pattern
• 600GSM
• OEKO-TEX certified
• Quick drying

Shop Now

07

Mira linen cushion cover in Enzo

$120, Cultiver

The finishing touch to your bed is a stylish throw pillow. This striped number is our choice and is made from heavyweight linen for that luxurious feel.

Materials: 100% linen

Key features:

• Made from 100% European flax linen
• Striped pattern
• 320GSM
• OEKO-TEX certified

Shop Now

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Whether it’s adding sophistication to your living room, serenity to your bedroom or warmth to your dining area, the perfect rug can make a world of difference. Read on to find out how, and to get some care tips to keep your rugs looking brand new.

Come home in style

Imagine walking through the door and into a space that instantly greets you with warmth and style. The Arabella runner rug does just that by elevating your entryway while whisking away the day’s grime.

This rug’s minimalist design and subtle tones work with all interior styles. The wool and jute blend feels heavenly underfoot and stands up to daily comings and goings, with a Scandinavian charm that’s hard to overlook. Good looks aside, the Arabella runner is also an eco-conscious and pet-friendly option. To keep yours in peak condition, vacuum gently without a beater bar and immediately blot any spills.

Cosy up your bedroom

For a bedroom that feels like a haven, it all comes down to incorporating elements that bring warmth and relaxation. Nothing does that better than a luxurious area rug like the Darren Palmer Zen rug.

You’ll feel your feet sinking into the plush texture of this wool-blend rug, plus the dense pile gives it a classy look that goes perfectly with bedroom decor. And with its white colour and subtle geometric patterns, it adds a touch of elegance to any space.

Vacuum regularly with a nozzle attachment to keep the fibres intact. When dealing with spills, just pat dry with a clean, absorbent cloth.

Bring natural elegance indoors

For that effortless style we all covet, the Darren Palmer Earth rug is made from a blend of jute, cotton and wool and hand-loomed in India by local artisans. Its textured tones are ideal for a coastal home or holiday house, while the abstract pattern adds interest and texture.

To keep your rug in good condition, rotate every six months to ensure even wear and tear. Regular vacuuming on a low setting will prevent dirt and dust build-up without harming the wool fibres.

Mix it up with playful patterns and colours

Elevate the look of any room with a white rug peppered with an eye-catching pattern. The Amsterdam rug comes in a choice of sweet polka dots or a unique, nomadic-inspired print, making it a fun centrepiece for a boho or eclectic aesthetic.

Made from durable polypropylene, it’s built to last and is easy to maintain. A simple vacuum is all you need to keep it looking as vibrant as when you first laid it out – just skip the spinning brush to avoid any potential damage to the fibres.

The post How to revitalise your home with a light-coloured rug appeared first on Homes To Love.

So, with Mother’s Day slowly creeping up – May 12th, to be exact – now is a good time to start looking at unique Mother’s Day-themed decor that will add a bit of festivity to your home – without looking tacky.

The best Mother’s Day decorations 2024

01

Lightly Tone planter in Sunset

$113.60 (usually $142), RJ Living

Perfect for a bunch of fresh flowers (a Mother’s Day must, in our opinion), this two-tone planter will look great as a centrepiece on the dining table, hall table, or even the buffet cabinet.

Colours: Sunset, Sand, Sage & Juniper, Mustard & Bark, Sky & Mustard, Ochre & Sand, Sand & Black

Material: Powder-coated metal

Size: 14cm x 14cm x 25cm

Key features:

• Various colour combinations available
• Powder-coated metal finish
• Perfect for plants and flowers

Shop Now

02

Bright dried flower arrangement

$160, Interflora

If keeping a fresh bouquet fresh for longer than a day is a struggle for you, consider opting for a dried flower arrangement instead. This brightly coloured option from Interflora will brighten up any space, and will make for the perfect Mother’s Day lunch decor.

Key features:

• Dried flowers
• Long-lasting
• Florist choice dried flower arrangement

Shop Now

03

Morgan & Finch Miss Butterflies teapot

$37.45 (usually $49.95), Bed Bath N’ Table

If you’re treating Mum to breakfast in bed, make sure you have the prettiest teapot to serve her favourite tea in. This teapot from Morgan & Finch features a whimsical butterfly print, and will make your mum’s heart flutter.

Key features:

• Gold detailing
• Butterfly design

Shop Now

04

Circa Rose Nectar & Clementine candle

$35.95 (usually $44.95), Bed Bath N’ Table

Nothing beats a scented candle when it comes to home decor. And when you’re decorating for Mother’s Day, choose one with a stylish jar and a fruity floral scent.

Key features:

• Handmade in Australia
• 350g
• Delicate rose, amber, and sweet clementine notes

Shop Now

05

Portable LED table lamp in pink

$39.99, Amazon

Turn off the big lights and create a cosy atmosphere with this adorable mushroom-style portable lamp from Amazon. In a cute pink hue, it’ll warm up any dining table in an instant.

Key features:

• Portable design
• LED light bulb
• Available in various colours

Shop Now

06

Flemington acrylic tumbler in pale pink

$8, Aura Home

If you’re planning a fun Mother’s Day picnic in your backyard, local park, or even the beach, these acrylic tumblers will be your lifesaver – plus, they look almost identical to glass.

Key features:

• Made from BPA-free plastic
• Safe for indoor or outdoor use

Shop Now

How can I make something special for Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day is your chance to celebrate the mother figure(s) in your life. Though we are big advocates for showing those you love how much you appreciate them often, a marked occasion such as Mother’s Day is a good reminder to plan something special.

It doesn’t need to be over the top or grand; something as easy as making them their favourite breakfast before they wake up or organising a family lunch or a backyard picnic are all great fail-safe ideas for making the most special woman or women in your life feel extra loved on May 12.

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The post Set the scene with these Mother’s Day decorations that aren’t tacky appeared first on Homes To Love.

This Is DIY Luxury

If you’re looking to take your windows up a notch, the range from Tuiss Blinds Online has a solution, regardless of whether you rent or own.

Their made to measure blinds and curtains come with a choice of easy to attach traditional fixed brackets, or their innovative Twist2Fit and Click2Fit systems. These tool-free headrail systems fit recessed windows flawlessly and installing them is a breeze, with no drill required. With a simple click or twist, the headrail locks into place and won’t budge, giving you the choice of beautiful colours and fabrics for every room.

Designer Choices

Beautiful window furnishings finish a room and bring an air of effortless elegance. The stunning range of designer fabrics from world renowned names including Clarissa Hulse, Emma Bridgewater and William Morris in collaboration with the Victoria & Albert Museum, offer an elevated choice to complement your home décor and make your windows a design focal point.

Quality Without Compromise

From elegant blinds and curtains to shutters, outdoor solutions and beyond, Tuiss DIY products are engineered to deliver unbeatable value without compromising on style or longevity.

Tuiss window solutions are crafted with the same premium materials and meticulous attention to detail as those installed by professionals, backed up with a five year guarantee. Installing them yourself is where you save significantly on cost, by bypassing the pricey installation services.

By taking matters into your own hands, you’re not just saving money — you’re also saving time. No more waiting around for tradies to show up; everything you need comes with your blinds. Armed with a few basic tools and user-friendly guides, you can achieve professional results easily.

Transform Your Home

Embarking on a DIY journey in home improvement can seem like a daunting task, but fear not. Tuiss Blinds Online has streamlined the process, making it simpler and more convenient than ever before. From measuring to installation, their user-friendly website and comprehensive guides walk you through each step to ensure you get exactly the result you want.

With easy-to-follow fitting guides and options for no-drill solutions, achieving professional-looking results is a breeze with just a few basic tools and a can-do attitude. Plus, you’re never alone on your journey. Tuiss’ friendly customer service team is just a call or click away to offer support and guidance whenever you need it.

Video credit @lilly_moreau

Explore the Tuiss Blinds Online range of made-to-measure blinds, curtains, shutters, and more, and discover the joy of transforming your home on your terms.

The post Meet the made-to-measure, affordable designer blinds you install yourself. Yes, really. appeared first on Homes To Love.

Well, a new Australian online marketplace for antique and vintage homewares promises to change all that. Bazaa founders Aria Wigneswaran, a former Depop executive, and Thibault Henry can sympathise with the common frustrations.

“We understand the challenges of hunting for vintage and antique homewares – the time, energy, and the risk of scams,” says Aria. “At Bazaa, we’re here to shake up the game. We’re celebrating the charm of slow-made, pre-loved furniture and home decor, while reshaping how Australians discover, buy, and sell these timeless pieces.”

Whether you’re buying or selling, Bazaa offers a seamless experience of browsing beautiful and bespoke pieces for your home. You can search individual seller’s stores, certain eras and styles, or even for categories as niche as room dividers and coat racks. 

New products are uploaded and — more importantly — approved by the team at Bazaa each week, so you won’t waste any time having to sort through the trash or try and work out whether it’s a bad photo, or just bad. The payment process is also handled on the website, so you can say ‘see ya’ to popular PayID scams.

“We’re shaping a world where pre-loved pieces continue to tell their rich stories of craftsmanship while uniting a community of people contributing to a circular future,” says Aria. And it’s true. Antique and vintage pieces have a unique way of telling a story and can make even the most modern of homes feel rich with history.

Whether that’s a weathered piece of French oak furniture, a worn wool kilim rug or a piece of silverware beautifully tarnished with time, they offer character and charm a new or mass-produced piece simply can’t replicate. And speaking of such lovely things, in the name of research, we scrolled through Bazaa and found six pieces we’d love to shop right now.

Shop our top picks from Bazaa

01

Late 19th Century French bobbin corner chair

$1120, Bazaa

Sourced from Lyon, France, and dating back to the 19th century, this sweet corner chair is a work of art. Displaying extraordinary craftsmanship with its ornately turned bobbin legs and woven seat, it’s sure to be a conversation starter. 

Shop Now

02

Pair of vintage wicker rattan bedside tables

$380, Bazaa

Boasting both form and function, we absolutely wouldn’t mind if these beautifully textured rattan bedside tables were the last thing we saw before falling asleep each night. 

Shop Now

03

Vintage Afghan Mori Gul Kilim

$900, Bazaa

Rugs have a certain way of tying a space together and this pure wool Kilim rug, with its warm and neutral palette, would bring such character to a space. Originally woven in the 1950s, it has that worn age to it that could make a house feel like a home. 

Shop Now

04

Vintage pillowy boucle three-seater vintage sofa

$5950, Bazaa

Sofas sure are an investment piece, but we can’t see you regretting this purchase. Thanks to a voluptuous silhouette and a recent reupholstery job using a rich, boucle fabric from Warwick, this sofa looks oh-so-lovely.

Shop Now

05

Vintage James Dean framed print

$49, Bazaa

Art can be costly, which is what makes posters a clever way to decorate without doing serious damage to your bank account. But rather than picking a poster you’d currently be able to find at your local art gallery, why not put up a pin-up from yesteryear?

Shop Now

06

1960s cane furniture set

$750, Bazaa

Cane has a sculptural quality and character that not many other materials can replicate. We’re not sure what it is about these 60s-era chairs, but we’re suddenly craving a prawn cocktail. 

Shop Now

The post Flick Facebook Marketplace with this new online vintage furniture destination appeared first on Homes To Love.

Though with options aplenty for different types of eco-friendly wool, designs and patterns, the arduous process of narrowing down your choices to just one blanket can make you want to pull the wool right over your eyes.

So that you can stay warm in style this winter, we’ve curated an edit of some of the best wool blankets currently on the market.

The best wool blankets to shop in Australia

01

The Grampians Goods Co. Antipodean collection recycled wool blanket

$189, HardToFind

Available in six beautiful colourways, this lovely recycled wool blanket looks just as good on your bed, as over the arm of our sofa, or under your perfect picnic setup.

Key features:

• Available in six colours
• Ethically woven in India
• Machine washable

Shop Now

02

Clara wool blanket in Bone

$384.99 (usually $549.99), Sheridan

Featuring a subtle, contrast pattern with hints of charcoal and a rolled hem, this 100 per cent Merino wool blanket is a contemporary take on the traditional woollen throw.

• 100% Australian Merino wool
• Features a subtle contrasting pattern
• Finished with a rolled hem

Shop Now

03

Morgan wool Floyd blanket

from $260, Sheet Society

Featuring the calming combination of White, Charcoal, Mocha, Hunter Green, and Dove Grey, this beautiful Australian Merino wool and bamboo blanket is available in two generous sizes, and also comes in two other, equally-as-beautiful colourways.

Key features:

• 100% natural and renewable
• Cold hand or delicate machine wash
• Thermo-regulating

Shop Now

04

St Albans Archie mohair throw

$349, David Jones

This slightly contemporary take on tartan in multi-blue hues gives a homey feel to any space. Made from mohair, the throw features an eyelash fringe and ultra-soft pile.

Key features:

• Handwash or dry clean only
• Plain weave
• Blue tartan pattern

Shop Now

05

Nordic Fusion Bjork wool blanket

$194.95, Hardtofind

This Swedish 100 per cent lamb’s wool blanket is generously sized and comes in several shades to suit any colour scheme. Throw it over the sofa, place it at the end of your bed – it’ll undoubtedly make for the ideal wintertime companion.

Key features:

• 100% lamb’s wool
• Dry clean only
• Available in four colours

Shop Now

06

CR X Waverley 90s reissue Australian made merino throw

$399, Country Road

A reissue of an archived design, this Country Road classic plays on 90s nostalgia – but it’s also incredibly soft and cosy. The throw has been released in collaboration with Tasmania-based Waverly Mills, Australia’s oldest working textile mill.

Key features:

• Collaboration with Waverly Mills
• Nostalgic 90s stripe design
• 100% Australian Merino wool

Shop Now

07

St Albans alpaca throw in Whitehaven

$399, David Jones

Hypoallergenic and inspired by Australian beaches, the soft blues and teals of the Whitehaven throw are calming additions to any coastal scheme.

Key features:

• Made using the famous wool of the Huacaya Alpaca sourced from Peru
• Hand wash or dry clean only
• Pure alpaca pile

Shop Now

08

Hayworth throw in Lake

$299.99 (usually $209.99), Sheridan

Never wake up cold in the middle of the night again thanks to this premium wool blanket that looks as cosy as it feels. With flecks of sea-green tones, it’s the perfect cold weather styling piece.

Key features:

• 90% wool 10% cotton
• Made in India
• Designed in Australia

Shop Now

The post 8 wool blankets to cosy up in this winter appeared first on Homes To Love.

So dust down your best dinnerware, pick some fresh flowers and decorate your table in the theme of the day, because it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

You definitely don’t have to spend a fortune to make it an Instagram-worthy and festive table. The easiest way to make it feel special is to set out some themed plates, hanging eggs and sprinkle some sweet bunnies and chickens around.

A neutral colour palette with touches of gold and pastels will keep it looking elegant but play around with colour by adding bright flowers and colourful dishes.

We’ve found the cutest egg cups, placemats and other affordable Easter table decorations out now – but be warned, you might want to set them out every morning.

The best easter decorations under $50 for 2024

Morgan & Finch bunny with flowers spreader

$4.19 (usually $5.99), Bed Bath N’ Table

Up your tableware game with a too-cute spread knife. This one features a ceramic bunny as the handle, and if this doesn’t shout ‘Easter’, then we don’t know what will.

SHOP NOW

Personalised Easter egg hunt tote bag

$24.95, Hardtofind

Fill it with all your Easter treats – with room to spare – this egg hunt tote bag will ensure the morning Easter egg hunt is a success.

SHOP NOW

Easter Bunny Wreath tea towels (set of 2)

$32.99 ($19.79 for Linen Lovers), Adairs

An easy way to add festivity into your home is by swapping your standard tea towels for something on theme. These vintage bunny tea towels from Adairs are oh-so adorable and are our pick of the crop.

SHOP NOW

Spode Blue Room – Aesop’s Fable archive mug

$54.95, David Jones

Designed in Portmeirion studios in Stoke on Trent, England, this Spode Blue Room mug gives a quiet nod to Easter-themed crockery. Crafted from fine porcelain, it’s dishwasher safe, freezer safe, microwave safe, and oven safe up to 200°C.

SHOP NOW

Hessian Bunny Ears headband (20cm) in natural

$9.99, Myer

One for the small kids (or big), these natural bunny ears from Myer will put a spring in your step this Easter.

SHOP NOW

Lafitte rabbit socks in blue

$19.95, Hardtofind

A subtle addition to Easter festivities, these bunny socks make great Easter gifts for the whole family.

SHOP NOW

Hot Cross Bites

$19.90, Koko Black

If you love hot cross buns, and want to enjoy its sweet decadent flavours on Easter and after, stock the pantry up with these Hot Cross Bites from Koko Black to enjoy on Easter and beyond.

SHOP NOW

DIHOclub Rabbit ceramic cup

$24.99, Amazon

It doesn’t get cuter than this peek-a-boo bunny mug. In a baby-pink hue, it’s impossible not to have a smile on your face with every sip. Perfect for soothing teas, hot chocolate, or your morning coffee. This adorable mug is an Easter must-have.

SHOP NOW

DIY Easter eff craft (set of 6)

$17.73, Hardtofind

If arts and crafts are on the table this Easter, you’ll want to add this DIY Easter egg craft kit to the selection. It will give you a few minutes (or seconds) of peace when the kids are preoccupied with decorating fun.

SHOP NOW

Morgan & Finch Rabbit Holding Floral Dish

$27.99 (usually $39.99), Bed Bath N’ Table

Host Easter lunch in style with this serving dish that is unequivocally, Easter. Perfect to use as a fruit bowl or to use to serve sweet treats.

SHOP NOW

Happy Easter cookie cutters (4-pack)

$5.60 (usually $8), Spotlight

If Easter baking is on the list this season, then you’ll want to invest in these adorable Easter-themed cookie cutters. We’re adding these to our (Easter egg) basket immediately.

SHOP NOW

The post 11 Easter decorations under $50 to add festivity to your home appeared first on Homes To Love.

As well as illuminating the home, floor lamps are also a fantastic styling tool for creating a focal point and zoning a space. Lamps can also be used to highlight a standout feature in your home such as a prized artwork or a beautiful statement armchair.

Warm vs cool light

For task lighting, opt for a cool-white globe that provides a crisper and brighter quality of light, good for completing activities such as reading. For ambient lighting in living spaces and entertaining zones, warm globes are ideal for setting the mood.

If you’re looking for a floor lamp solely for decorative purposes, all you need to worry about is choosing a design that suits your interior style and fits the space it’s intended for. A large statement floor lamp is the perfect way to fill an empty corner in a spacious, open-plan zone, while smaller living rooms or bedrooms will require sleek, minimal styles that don’t take up too much floor space.

Here we round up some of the best floor lamps to suit a range of different styles, spaces and budgets.

The best floor lamps you can buy right now

01

Jarrah marble floor lamp

$169, Temple & Webster

Add a touch of elegance to your living room or bedroom with this sleek floor lamp from Temple & Webster. With minimal set-up required, you’ll be able to add a warm glow to any room instantly.

Key features:

• Easy set up
• Marble base

Shop Now

02

Laize floor lamp

$386.10 (usually $429), Freedom

Add a sculptural element to your living space with Freedom’s Laize lamp. Featuring a beautiful arc design, this silver lamp provides overhead lighting and a touch of glamour to a room.

Key features:

• Iron and marble construction
• Cantilever design

Shop Now

03

Gardner Mother & Child floor lamp

$69.95, Temple & Webster

Simple yet stylish, this sleek little lamp boasts a multi-functional design. The upper light spreads a pleasant light upwards, while the lower light is adjustable to direct light wherever you need it.

Key features:

• Cone-shaped shades
• Flexible dual-lighting option

Shop Now

04

Gardner Mother & Child floor lamp

$69.95, Temple & Webster

This elegant floor lamp is a combination of a satin brass base with a rattan shade and is perfect for the final, contemporary touch to any living space. With a warm and ambient glow, the Bazak lamp is an easy-to-set-up, stylish way to infuse some character into your home.

Key features:

• Rattan shade
• Simple set-up

Shop Now

05

Candice floor lamp in chrome

$306, Myer

Three sphere lights emerge gracefully from this floor lamp’s chrome upright stand, which is balanced by a circular base. When switched on, these spheres produce a sparkling, futuristic glow, making it the perfect piece for someone looking for a more creative and avant-garde lighting solution.

Key features:

• Bulb included
• Glass construction

Shop Now

06

Achie Mid-century floor lamp

$299 (usually $316), Lifely

With its pleated shade and curved stand, this floor lamp combines mid-century and Japandi design elements to create a statement lighting piece to suit myriad interiors. Soft, elegant and striking, this lamp would look excellent positioned over your favourite armchair to create a cosy reading nook.

Key features:

• Oak and iron construction
• White pleated shade
• Bulb not included

Shop Now

07

Whitelaw natural floor light

$247.49 (usually $329.99), Adairs

Created with a sturdy, natural wood base, this floor lamp is an excellent way to bring the outdoors inside. Exuding a warm, inviting aura, this piece is one that instantly transforms any room into a haven of cosiness and sophistication.

Key features:

• Ashwood and bamboo construction
• Woven cylindrical shade

Shop Now

The post The most fabulous floor lamps to illuminate your home appeared first on Homes To Love.

While famous for her daring and dazzling fashion sense, Iris was well-versed in the world of interiors, once managing a luxury textiles firm called Old World Weavers with her husband, Carl Apel. The pair even completed works in the White House for former presidents. 

More recently, the savant — who never shied from a flick through a flea market — collaborated with US retailer Grandin Road to create an exceptionally eclectic homewares collection called ‘Iris Loves Grandin Road’. 

With an aesthetic that is so much more than simply maximalism, sitting somewhere between haute couture, clashing prints and feather boas and more is more, Iris’ style is one that will endure. It’s about embracing whatever it is you love, and to excess. “I don’t have any rules because I’d only be breaking them,” she famously said. 

Ever inspired by her bold braveness and rambunctiously rebellious style, we’ve rounded up five eccentricly eclectic homewares to help you channel a touch of Iris Apfel in your home.

Shop Iris Apfel’s signature style

01

Iris Apfel ‘Flutterby’ rug in Teal

From $219, Ruggable

When channelling Iris Apfel’s style, you can’t go past the rug collection she designed with Ruggable. With a jewel-tone colourway and intricate design featuring bugs (of course!), this rug embodies her quintessential quirks.

Key features:

• Water and stain-resistent
• Machine washable
• Comes in a variety of sizes and styles

Shop Now

02

Gold Palm Tree side table

$444, Temple & Webster

Adding a splash of glamour and finished with a vintage-inspired patina, this side table has Iris’ name all over it. Top with a martini and style beside a velvet armchair, and now we’re talking.

Key features:

• Made from premium aluminium and glass
• Easy to assemble
• Available with Afterpay

Shop Now

03

Tempa Anthea martini glasses

$44.95 (usually $59.95)/set of 2, Temple & Webster

Speaking of martinis, what better way to serve them up in style than in these animal print-inspired glasses by Tempa. The dots have been hand-applied in the mouth-blown glass, adding a unique artistic flair to them.

Key features:

• Mouth-blown glass
• Dishwasher safe
• Comes in a beautiful giftbox

Shop Now

04

Greg Natale Soleil box

$120, The Iconic

Available in three different colourways, this glamorous catch-all is the perfect place to store all your treasures and trinkets. It has been designed by Greg Natale and has a chic Art Deco look.

Key features:

• Available in three designs
• Made from Boen China with real gold
• Currently 40% off at checkout

Shop Now

05

Maxwell & Williams ‘The Blck Pen Reminisce Coupe’ 12-piece dinner set

$169.95, Myer

White plates? How boring. This 12-piece set gives classic dinnerware a little bit of pizzazz. Designed in collaboration with Sydney artist The Blck Pen, each piece is adorned with flowers and foliage drawn in a watercolour-and-ink style.

Key features:

• Microwave and dishwasher safe
• Free delivery
• Made from porcelain

Shop Now

The post How to channel Iris Apfel’s iconic and kaleidoscopic interior style appeared first on Homes To Love.

“I tend to end the week working from home, which is lovely. I lock myself away and do a lot of my designing in one of the rooms upstairs,” she says. “It looks onto the back garden and is a nice spot to work.”

A keen cook, Bonnie reveals her plan to get up early the next morning to go to a farmers market. Textile designer, artist, florist and gardener… there seems to be little this talented creative cannot turn her hand to. The desire to make things is the common thread underpinning them all and, luckily for us, it’s this passion that led Bonnie and Neil to launch their homewares brand in 2010.

Today, Bonnie and Neil designs are stocked throughout Australia, New Zealand, the US, Europe and Asia, but it all started with a bird on a tablecloth. This screen-printed piece was quickly joined by tablecloths, tea towels, bed linen, glassware, artwork and even furniture.

‘Trademark style’ is a term often used too loosely in the design world but it’s a description hard to avoid when it comes to Bonnie and Neil. The brand’s mix of exuberant colour and pattern make it immediately identifiable, even when it’s simply a glimpse of a pineapple on a tablecloth.

“With Neil’s background as a furniture maker, we were always dreaming up furniture pieces and making them for homes we lived in — day beds, tables, coffee tables, garden planters and storage units,” Bonnie says, recalling those early days. “We both love the creative process of making pieces, but also developing our own products when we couldn’t find them elsewhere. Our business came about because we enjoy making our living spaces feel homely and look beautiful, and we realised that if we couldn’t find pieces we wanted, maybe others had that same need!”

It was a hunch that soon proved to be correct. Bonnie and Scottish-born Neil bring separate skills to the table that are a magical combination in the retail world – and in creating their personal spaces.

“Our own home is always evolving and changing. You can almost think of our home as the moodboard for Bonnie and Neil,” explains Bonnie, who grew up in New Zealand and studied art at Christchurch’s School of Design. “My designs are often inspired by what we would love to have in our own home, so in each living space the designs and product mix is always being added to and updated.”

Their biggest joint design project to date is their current house in Melbourne, the city they have called home since 2003 after living in London for several years.

It turns out designing houses and homewares is a similar process. “The one difference was that I was slightly less decisive in making decisions for my home than I am when working on a project,” says Bonnie. “We are particular about detail and quality. I think those considerations stay the same for our work and our home — it’s got to be made beautifully and finished beautifully.”

The couple bought the house in 2018. “It was serendipitous. We loved the street and neighbourhood. The house had a lovely aspect with gorgeous heritage details. Most of all, we could see that there was plenty of potential and scope for us to make our creative mark on it,” she says.

Renovations began in 2021 after Covid delayed building work by a year. The house had already been extended by the previous owner, and Bonnie and Neil decided to reconfigure the existing layout. Top of the list was a bigger kitchen. “I knew I wanted a beautiful green kitchen. I find green such a relaxing colour to live with. When you are surrounded by a lot of pattern and colour, you also need a relaxing space,” she explains.

The result is her “favourite room in the house”, designed by Neil and lined with his meticulously finished cabinetry — he built all the joinery — but it’s the expanses of Belize quartzite that steal the show. “I spent nearly a year looking at every piece of green stone at every supplier in Melbourne. When I found those pieces of quartzite, there was literally just enough,” she says.

Every room is a testament to colour and pattern. How on earth do you get the mix right I ask? “I try not to focus on getting it ‘right’,” she explains, “as sometimes the best results come from the unexpected, or ‘wrong’ combinations and pairings.”

And that’s something we know Bonnie Ashley is very good at, turning the unexpected into something beautiful.

Bonnie and Neil: bonnieandneil.com.au

The post The eclectic, colourful cottage owned by the duo behind homewares brand Bonnie and Neil appeared first on Homes To Love.

Now it’s important to note that where our homes — our safe spaces, refuges, retreats and sanctuaries — are concerned, we should not leave it to trends to dictate how we design them. Trends are exactly that: trendy. And just as quickly as they come, they tend to go. 

The good news? They almost always come back. So before you go tossing out a table or sofa you spent ages saving up for because someone says that style is now “out”, hang tight. Just look to our continued obsession with all things nostalgia, art deco interiors and mid-century modern furniture for proof of that. In your own home, your style is always in style. 

Last year saw an influx of wavy and scalloped shapes, vintage and retro styles and plenty of colour as we all collectively tried to break free of the constraints and restrictions left in the wake of Covid-19. But the trend cycle continues to churn, and even more so in this fast-paced online world where places like Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok seem to churn out a new aesthetic every week. Heard of Coastal Cowgirl, Tomato Girl Summer, Mermaidcore or Coastal Grandma? No? Don’t worry about it now. 

And while exactly which of those will stick around and which will leave us shaking our heads in a few years is yet to be determined, we asked our Instagram followers to let us know the interior trends they’d be happy to never, ever see again. Some of the answers were contentious — do we really hate red that much? — while others were widely supported by the masses. 

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Here are 15 dated interior design trends you should be ditching in 2024. (And a few tips on what to do instead.)

1. “Too much white”

Don’t get us wrong, white walls are and will always be timeless. We love the calm tranquility of a white and neutral room, and the ability of white to balance out other features in our home. But too much white can look stark and clinical, and we think it’s time to wave goodbye to the Scandi-derived trend of painting every wall, ceiling, and floor white and styling it with a white rug and couch. Surely the scuff marks are starting to show by now?

2. “Chopping lounge cushions”

“Says to me ‘Don’t sit here!'” clarified the commenter. The ol’ karate-chopped cushion has been a point of contention for a few years now. Some people love it, some find it suffocating. Either way, all cushions need a bit of fluffing every now and then to stop them from looking limp and saggy. Whether you want them looking crisp and full, or naturally squished and welcoming is up to you.

3. “TOM FORD books”

This year we saw the ‘bookshelf wealth’ trend emerge. Along with embracing a comfortable and lived-in look in your home, it also promotes filling your bookshelves with things you actually love, and books you’ve actually read rather than knick-knacks with no sentimental meaning and coffee table books you never intend to crack the spine of. The main culprit: those chunky Tom Ford and Chanel tomes.

4. “Colour glass splashbacks”

Perhaps the most common comments on our Instagram post were ones deeming glass splashbacks — whether backed with a purple, peach or “definitely not red” coloured wall — a dated interior trend. While glass may be easy to clean and therefore a convenient material for your kitchen splashback, the style reigned supreme in the early to mid-2000s and has, apparently, not aged well.

5. “Popcorn ceilings”

Also known as stipple ceilings, this textured finish was popular in Australian homes from the 1960s to the 1980s. Originally used as a cost-effective way to quickly hide any imperfections, it was also generally made using asbestos, which may have something to do with its less-than-ideal reputation these days.

6. “Inspirational quotes and words as decor”

You know the ones. ‘Live. Laugh. Love.’ or maybe a sign announcing the room you’re entering adorned on the wall. If you love a phrase, we recommend living it, not putting it up on your wall as decoration. Plus, it may be your mantra right now (please don’t tell me to calm down) but some sayings don’t stand the test of time and fonts can fade fast.

7. “Wallpaper on one wall as a feature”

We’ve actually written about this one before. At length. To quote ourselves, “Like side-swept, black-box-dyed fringes, treating alcohol bottles as decor and word art, there are certain trends that should be left in the past.” And this is one of them. If you’re going to make a feature, do it to all the walls. 

8. “That minty blue frosted glass”

You know the kind you often see on wardrobe doors or kitchen splashbacks? “It’s literally the ugliest material I might have ever seen,” wrote one follower. Perhaps the cool colour and reflective finish make it come across as quite cold and clinical, or maybe it just reminds people too much of their dentist. Either way, it’s out.

9. “Mission brown”

Another colour that seems to irk people these days — or any day since the 1970s apparently — is Mission brown. Boy, were there a fair few comments calling the hue most definitely dated. Whether it’s on walls, window frames or sliding doors, it’s time to pick up a paintbrush. Stat.

10. “Grey timber-look floors, grey walls, grey tiles, grey cabinetry”

You get the picture. No more grey. Scandinavian-inspired interiors have a penchant for using a multitude of grey hues within one space. Although this has its beauty, warmer tones have seen a resurrection, and greys and white with cool undertones tend to look a bit sterile and cold. Opt instead for a warmer neutral or beige.

11. “Fake flowers and plants”

We know that some people aren’t good with plants or have dark poky corners that can’t sustain life, but faux plants just aren’t the same. Thankfully there are plenty of varieties that can thrive off very little care, like a Zanzibar or ferns. As for dusty dried flowers, you’d be better off dragging a large branch that’s fallen from a tree outside into your living room. No joke.

12. “Butler’s pantries”

This one was contentious. For some homes, butler’s pantries work, but it’s true, sometimes they just don’t make sense. “Butler’s pantries have become so big the actual kitchen is now redundant!” added another follower, and that’s a good point. (In fact, we made the same point in this article where we investigated whether butler’s pantries were worth the hype.)

13. “Mass-produced items everywhere”

Whether it’s mass-produced art, kitsch coastal decor, or matchy-matchy furniture, the jury is no longer out. Filling your space with things that hold no sentimental value, or have all come from the same store, is a surefire way to end up with a room that lacks soul. “Let’s make thrifting, vintage shopping and DIYs a way of life,” suggested one follower. “I’d rather see interesting homes that reflect the owners’ individuality with objects that have a unique story,” added another. We tend to agree.

14. “Anything red”

This one was interesting as many as saying that red is the colour of the year, this year. (Not that Pantone thought so.) Albeit best used in our homes in small pops rather than completely taking over spaces, red can bring a bold, fresh and vibrant feel to a space. It’s charged with energy and power and also has quite a traditional quality. But as with all trends, some people strongly disagree.

15. “Scrunched up paper to create an effect on the wall”

Back in the 90s, it was all the rage to create feature walls with clever DIY finishes, whether with sponges, rags or scrunched-up paper. And as much as the thought of these walls brings back such sweet nostalgia, we have to agree that it’s now a dated look. To create texture on your walls, you’d be better off going for a limewash paint, Venetian plaster or bespoke render.

The post 15 dated interior trends to leave behind in 2024, as voted by you  appeared first on Homes To Love.

Australia is not rich with the facilities for snowman building and sledding, but we sure love our water play. The best outdoor games can involve all kinds of people. Perennial favourites like bikes and ring toss are always a hit, while a gardening set or high-bounce balls are great to have on hand no matter the time of year.

Whether it’s a games of giant blocks or some bright chalk to graffiti our pavements for a massive game of hop-scotch, outdoor games that bring out our inner child and keep kids entertained all day are the ones we will return to again and again and that ultimately stand the test of time.

Any child psychologist will tell you the benefits of letting children run wild, getting dirty and having adventure, so there are more reasons than ever to turn off the screens and inspire them to get outside. Maybe the adults amongst us should follow their lead.

Outdoor games for ages 1 to 100

Multiplayer 5 metre long skipping jump rope

$35.29, Catch

A game to keep you fit as well as entertained, skipping is one for the young and the young at heart. Or, at least, it’s something to get your heart pumping. This skipping rope is long enough to fit a couple of people into the jumping. Use it also to make obstacle sources, to mark the ground for a game of football. This skipping rope is as versatile as they come.

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Planet Finska wooden tossing game

$74.95, Biome

A classic wooden tossing game, the original Finska is a fun and addictive game based on an ancient log throwing game from Finland. Players use strategy and skill to crate clever twists and be the first to score 50 points. This is one to involve all the family – all ages – in an outdoor game.

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54 piece giant outdoor wooden block game

$129, Myer

Standing a massive 63cm tall, this “Jenjo” spin-off from the original block-balancing game can be played by taking one block from the bottom of the tower and placing it at the top, so it only grows in size. A toppling block could injure very small children, but for the more sturdy ages this game offers endless fun. Watch six year olds build race tracks for toy cars, and eight year olds build obstacle courses across giant lawns, children using blocks as goals, islands, tightropes and so much more.

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Lifespan Kids Amazon monkey bars

$649, Temple & Webster

Stretching 269cm across – there’s a 303cm width version as well – this robust monkey bar set up is constructed from fire wood and steel and is designed to last. Each steel component is double galvanised and powder coated for sustained durability. The monkey bars can hold up to 50kg per bar, making it safe outdoor play time for children.

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Crayola washable sidewalk chalk 48-piece

$10, Amazon

Bring out the future Banksy in your little artist, or just start a game of hopscotch anywhere. There’s everything to love about colouring the pavement, the driveway, the freshly painted walls outside with chalk. This sidewalk chalk is washable, and inspires game after active game outside.

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Kathmandu four-player wooden croquet set

$40 (usually $99.98), The Iconic

New Zealand brand Kathmandu believes that spending time outside makes you happy inside, and we can’t argue. This wooden mallet, balls, hoops croquet game is ready to play and comes and in a handy green case with a clear front so you can constantly be reminded what’s in there and that you should start up a croquet game quick smart.

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H2OGO! Battle Bomber Raft

$29, Target

A throwback to the bomber planes of yesterday, this blow up boat is made for gentle river rides or lazy days in the pool. The inflatable floor provides an extra layer of comfort. For safety (and fun), there’s a grab rope with built-in grommets that runs all the way around the boat, making it easy to climb back inside from the water.

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Sunnylife cork roll-up backgammon game

$37 (usually $74.99), Myer

Out of the playroom and into the garden with this beautiful game for all ages. There’s checkers on one side and backgammon on the other of this portable game set. Children can play for hours in the shade outside then roll up the game and pack it away with ease. We love that this sweet little game set is made from natural cork, which has been harvested without harming the tree.

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The post 8 outdoor games for kids and adults appeared first on Homes To Love.

All you need to turn your home into a holiday and create a coastal-inspired retreat is a little refresh in your décor. Think warm tones, natural textures and resort-style materials like pure linen and ceramics for your space.

Whether your aesthetic is more Hamptons, mid-century or modern contemporary, we’ve rounded up some summer-inspired homewares that you can use inside or in your outdoor entertaining spaces. Now all you need to do is find a fresh coconut, sit back and relax!

STYLISH SUMMER HOMEWARES UNDER $100

Tea towel in Picnic Stripes, $19, Hommey

Made from ultra-absorbent cotton and available in eight stylish colours and prints, this tea towel from Hommey is the perfect companion for all your cooking and hosting duties this summer.

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Large gobelets in Summer Set, $89/set of four, Maison Balzac

These stunning opaque drinking tumblers will introduce a splash of colour into your summer dining. You can mix and match them with a carafe or glasses in other colours from the collection.

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Frankie linen bag in Natural, $95, Cultiver

Whether you’re headed to the beach, markets or for a picnic, this pure linen bag can fit it all. It features an internal pocket for your smaller pieces, and comes in a slate, olive, dusk and natural colour.

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Australian House & Garden Esperance 12pc dinner set, $60 (usually $149.95), Myer

Featuring a beautiful and calming sage green colour, this 12 piece dinner set will have you sorted for summer entertaining. The set includes a dinner plate, side plate and bowl, and is finished with a subtle rustic design.

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Willow round jute placemats, $39.95 (usually $45), Temple & Webster

This beautiful round placemat is hand-made from sustainable jute in a natural colourway, perfect for any summer table setting.

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French pair madison candle, $49.95, Ecoya

Embodying the essence of crisp, tree-ripened Queensland pear blended with a hint of creamy vanilla, you’ll enjoy this fresh scent wafting through your space throughout the summer season. After all, it does have a burn time of 80 hours.

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Pesce salad bowl, $55.95 (usually $79.95), Freedom

This lightweight resin bowl is not only durable but super stylish. When not being used as a salad bowl, you can fill it with fruit. It’s abstract amber swirls are sure to start plenty of conversations, and you can complete the look with matching salad servers.

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Australian House & Garden cape shell in white, $40 (usually $79.95), Myer

Add a splash of the Hamptons to your home with this coastal shell ornament. A beautiful decorative piece, it can also be used to store you special pieces, as a key bowl, or even for fruit.

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Lillypilly hand wash 500ml by Leif, $39, Aura Home

It’s a necessity in the home, so why not splash out with it. This hand wash by Leif embraces the natural anti-bacterial properties of eucalyptus and tea tree oil, and is a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

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Maxwell & Williams Wayland hammered 16pc cutlery set, $59.98 (usually $119.95), Myer

With a classic design revamped with a hammered metal texture, this 16 piece cutlery set is dishwasher safe, made from quality stainless steel and sure to appeal to all your guests this summer.

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Aspect vase, $34.95 (usually $69.95), Freedom

This vase sure does make a statement. Handcrafted with a natural-coloured ceramic and finished with a textured surface, it’s perfect for displaying a posie, or leaving as is as a sculptural piece.

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Jade coloured glass vase, $54.95 (usually $79), west elm

Drawing on the classic forms of Chinese porcelain vases, this beautiful jade green vase features flecks of gold for some extra pizzazz. It’s handcrafted from mouth-blown glass and looks equally as beautiful empty as it does holding a bouquet.

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The post 12 stylish summer homewares all under $100 appeared first on Homes To Love.

Today’s candles boast stunning vessel designs that are in their own right worthy of putting on show or giving as a gift to friends or family.

With a surplus of designs on the market, we have rounded up 10 of the best candles you can buy in Australia that won’t go unnoticed by guests and will make your home smell amazing.

The best candles to shop right now

Rose Garden signature scented candle, $50, Studio McKenna

This captivating fragrant candle captures the scent of a blooming bouquet of velvety roses, softly kissed by the sun. It has subtle spicy and woody undertones that make for an unforgettable olfactory experience.

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Dance of the Dragon, $59.95, Glasshouse Fragrances

This beautiful limited edition candle mixes red sandalwood with patchouli notes in a ceramic printed vessel. Created to symbolise new beginnings and prosperous journeys ahead, it’s a full bodied candle that can fill a large room quickly.

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Hunter Candles Chiswick candle, $49, The Iconic

Inspired by the scents of the kitchen garden at Chiswick restaurant, this beautiful hand-poured candle smells like native bee honey, thyme, green leaf and olive leaf. It’s subtly sweet and super herbaceous and deserves pride of place on your coffee table, kitchen table or wherever you like to burn candles.

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Lumira Balinese Ylang Ylang candle, $80, Aura Home

Housed within a sleek black vessel, this candle has been designed to foster an atmosphere of romance and relaxation. Golden Ylang Ylang flower is emboldened by jasmine sambac and black orchid, and crowned with a delicate aromatic spice. The vivid smokiness of incense, coupled with the rich earthiness of velvety sandalwood and patchouli, make this fragrance truly intoxicating.

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Maison Balzac Bonne Nuit Candle 300g, $79, Adore Beauty

Sweet dreams are made of this relaxing Maison Balzac fragrance. Infused with pure organic lavender oil sourced from France, this scented candle fills the air with the soothing, herbal aroma of lavender so you can settle yourself in for a restful night’s sleep.

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Black Blaze Saudade scented candle, $55, The Iconic

The Black Blaze brand is inspired by the pure nature and comfortable lifestyle of Australia. This beautiful candle has been created to evoke the feeling of spring with rose and peony petals leading the journey, followed by clove, grass and violet notes. The burn time for this 100% pure soy candle is approximately 45 hours.

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Cire Trudon Abd El Kader Candle Classic 270g, $139, Adore Beauty

For those looking for something extra special, it’s hard to look past Cire Trudon, the oldest candlemaker in the world. Their iconic vessels will excited any design lover who comes to your home. This particular candle is an homage to the people of the Ouled Naïl who were experts of song and dance. Opening with an inviting green scent of fresh mint, the heart is reminiscent of black tea with ginger, clove, smooth blackcurrant and apple.

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Oceanique soy candle 350g, $39.95, Circa

An ode to ocean breezes, this uplifting candle features a blend of orange blossom and bergamot that will have you convinced your sofa is a hammock. The elegantly waved, glass vessel makes for a fitting ocean tribute.

Palm Beach Collection Coconut & Lime Candle 420g, $35.96 (usually $44.95, Myer

For those dreaming of summer, this fragrance is sure to help evoke the warmer months. The perfect balance of creamy coconut and zesty citrus, you’ll almost feel like you’re on a balmy tropical holiday.

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Ecoya Maple Madison candle, $49.95, Myer

Released in a previous autumnal collection as a limited edition fragrance and now added to the core Ecoya range due to overwhelming demand, Maple boasts a complex ‘floriental’ scent where the patchouli, sandalwood and vanilla base notes are punctuated by sweet passionflower and pops of orange blossom. This candle will provide a delicately scented burn for up to 80 hours.

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The post 10 of the most beautiful candles that will make your house look as good as it smells appeared first on Homes To Love.

Typically, pillar candles need to be paired with a chic candlestick or decorative lantern to make a style statement, until now.

‘Artful candles are a great way to make a contemporary decorative statement without the price tag or commitment. It’s like owning a sculptural piece, but one that you can choose to burn down and replace with a fresh ‘sculpture’ regularly, without breaking the bank, says Candle Kiosk founder, Winnie Van Donk.

Versatile, affordable and so easy to style, pillar candles are perfect for adding ambience to a bare bathroom corner or height to a table centrepiece.

“Think, height and depth, this works whether you’re a minimalist or into maximalism. Pillar candles of different heights look great grouped together and placed on top of stacked coffee table books and stone/marble tiles or trays,” says Britney Woods, co-founder of Australian homeware and candle label, LesBois.

“We love to style our candles with our brass candle holders on a coffee table, bathroom niche, shelving or as a centrepiece on a dining table,” she adds.

From elegant fluted designs to bright and colourful candles guaranteed to brighten up your interior (lit or not), we’ve found a selection of pillar candles so beautiful, you’ll be hesitant to burn them at all.

The Best Pillar Candles To Shop

Big top ribbed soy wax statement pillar candle, from $35, Studio McKenna

Available in three different sizes and also in sage and blush colourways, these statement pillar candles from Studio McKenna are a must-have addition to any stylish interior space. Made from the brand’s custom formulated soy wax blend and hand-poured to perfection in Melbourne, Australia.

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Katherine sculptural soy wax candle in blush, from $40, Studio McKenna

Hand-poured in Melbourne, this curvy pillar candle from Studio McKenna is the perfect way to add a subtle pop of colour to your living space. Available in two sizes to suit your taste.

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Black Blaze column pillar candle duo in Eucalyptus, $36, THE ICONIC

Made from refined soy wax, this pillar duo from Black Blaze is perfect for tablescapes or to use as decor when not lit. Available in an array of colours to suit any home interior design.

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Goldie taper candles in lilac (3-pack), $10.49 (usually $14.99), Adairs

Playful, fun and full of character, these taper candles will brighten up any dining table, mantel, and mood. Available in fun pastel hues that are perfect for springtime.

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Black Blaze Seaweed pillar candle in Toffee, $38, THE ICONIC

Inspired by the natural shapes of seaweed, this pillar candle from Black Blaze is an elegant addition to any home. With a five-hour burn time and crafted from high-quality beeswax, this candle will also make for the perfect housewarming gift.

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Crushed salt and cedarwood spiral candle (set of 2), $6.97 (usually $9.95), Peppermint Grove Australia

Featuring a fresh fragrance with top notes of crushed sea salt, bergamot and zest, head notes of moss, blossom and saffron, and base notes of warm amber, cedarwood and sandalwood, this sleek tapered candle from Peppermint and Grove is a must for scented candle lovers. Pair it with ceramic candlestick holders and it’ll be a welcome addition to your scented candle collection.

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Maison Balzac tapered candles winter (set of 5), $35, David Jones

In icy wintery hues, this winter tapered candle set from none other than Maison Balzac is made to illuminate your living space. Handmade from 100 per cent plant based stearin wax.

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Queen B Beeswax taper candles (set of 4), $69.95, Biome

With a 18-hour burn time, this pack of four tapered candles from Biome is simplicity at its best. Made from 100 per cent pur Australian beeswax, perfect for the dining table or even while you’re having a relaxing bath to set the mood.

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The post 8 pillar candles so pretty you won’t want to burn them appeared first on Homes To Love.

So, if you’re like us, then you’ll be familiar with the itch to refresh, redecorate or rearrange your space – especially if there’s a special occasion coming up or if we’re transitioning into a new season.

And, we’ll take up any occasion (and, we mean any occasion), as an excuse to spruce up our living area. The occasion we’re talking about in particular? Valentine’s Day.

A day to celebrate your loved ones, to spend with your best girlfriends, or to spend with your partner-in-crime. No matter how you’ll be spending February 14 this year, one thing is for certain – you’ll want to decorate your home in a similar loved-up fashion.

From linen tablecloths to fun love-themed throw pillows, below, we’ve rounded up our top picks of Valentine’s Day decor that will make you (and your home) feel a bit more loved up than usual.

Our top picks of Valentine’s Day decor buys 2024

apricot-vase-glass

Small tulip vase in terracotta, $50, Daily Blooms

When Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, it’s vital to have a stylish vase on hand for fresh bouquets that may pop up, unannounced. This terracotta vase is in a vibrant orange hue that will complement a fresh bunch of florals or even a dried flower arrangement.

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eco-modern-diffuser

Coastal diffuser, $77 (usually $110), Eco Modern Essentials

Set the mood this Valentine’s Day with the only way we know best – with a beautiful and romantic scent. This coastal diffuser by Eco Modern Essentials features a bamboo base and subtle textured lines, fitting in nicely with your existing decor.

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picnic-rug

Beverly yellow and orange Boho picnic rug, $139 (usually $189), Miss Amara

If your lover leans more sentimental when it comes to gifts, organising an intimate outdoor picnic will have them feeling extra loved – especially on Valentine’s Day. This woven picnic rug features a gorgeous vintage-inspired design in warm and inviting orange and brown hues. Just add a homemade charcuterie board, arrange some flowers to be delivered and you’ll be good to go.

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personalised-wine-glasses

Bordeaux wine glass set, $149.99, Hardtofind

Take date night at home to the next level with these stunning personalised glasses. Add to your at-home dinner date set up and sip the night away with your favourite red.

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pink-scalloped-placemat

Muse Maya scalloped pink napkin, $4.97 (usually $6.95), Pillow Talk

Staying on theme with dinner date tablescapes, this gorgeous dinner napkin by Muse will bring a pop of colour to the dining table – in swoon-worthy rose pink hue and finished with a scalloped red piped border, it’s as romantic as it gets.

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glass-candle-holders

Bebe tealight/tapered candle holder, $7.95, Pillow Talk

Nothing is more romantic than a candlelit dinner, so make sure you have the candle holders to match. These ones from Pillow Talk are made for tapered candles and will light up your table setting with a beautiful warm glow.

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heart-tea-towel

Heart tea towel, $34.95, Hardtofind

This tea towel features a bright heart-shaped print and is not for the faint-hearted. Made from pure linen and screen printed in Sydney, it’s a must-have come February 14.

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pink-throw-pillow

Lumbar velvet cushion in Bubblegum, $59.40 (usually $99), Hommey

If you’ve been decorating the home in neutral tones all year, this is your sign to add a bit of colour to the rotation. The easiest way to add colour to your space (without it being a huge commitment), is to opt for accent throw pillows. Place on your sofa or an armchair for a fun touch – this pink number is our pick, fittingly for V-Day.

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in-the-roundhouse-amore-plate

In The Roundhouse Amore plate, $29, David Jones

Staying strictly on theme is this serving plate by In The Roundhouse. Aptly named the Amore Plate, this plate is created in collaboration with Daimon Downey and is begging to be on display this Valentine’s Day.

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tapered-candles-pink

Light pink unscented taper candle, $3.99, Dusk

A Valentine’s Day decor round up is just not complete without tapered candles. They’re simple but effortlessly adds a romantic touch to any setting.

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The post Add a touch of romance to your living space with these charming home décor additions appeared first on Homes To Love.

We’ve seen all sorts of unique, funky and almost edible-looking table lamps in recent years but, in our opinion, nothing beats the coastal sophistication of the Hamptons style.

WHAT IS HAMPTONS STYLE?

Inspired by the picturesque beaches of Long Island’s iconic summer getaway destination, Hamptons style is renowned for its sophisticated simplicity and timeless colour palette of soft whites, creams, blues and sea greens.

Often complemented with dark timbers, rattan and silver nickel, the palette is not the only notable aspect of Hamptons style, as the quintessential effortless luxury of these interiors emanate that on-holiday feeling, making for relaxed yet elegant spaces.

In Hamptons style, table lamps are often used to add both symmetry and interest to a space. However, functionality is a core factor in Hamptons homes and table lamps aid this by creating well-lit workspaces, cosy reading nooks, and moody bedrooms.

Depending on your personal needs, you can choose a lamp that adds ambiance, lights up a study space, or both!

The Best Hamptons Style Lamps To Shop

temple and webster

Lyla Rattan Table Lamps (Set of 2), $79.90 (usually $89), Temple & Webster

For coastal charm and comfort, you can’t go past these contemporary lamps. Featuring classic white shades, you will bask in a gentle and soothing glow with woven rattan worthy of the seaside.

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amazon

Zest Lighting Astra Hamptons Lamp, $182, Amazon

In all-white, this modern lamp with a ribbing base is an elegant decor lighting centrepiece for any coastal aesthetic.

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hamptons glass lamp

Ivy antique brass and glass with natural linen shade, $224 (usually $299), One World

Inspired by nautical metallics, this brushed brass lamp is an alternative to the usual Hamptons form. Accompanied by a natural linen lampshade, its raw materials and orb-like shape are an instant point of interest within the home environment.

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white hamptons lamp

CL Living Urara table lamp, $569 (usually $599), Freedom

Featuring a beautiful bulbous base with a smooth matte finish, this oversized lamp with a matte black shade would look right at home styled as a pair on a console table at the entrance to any Hamptons home.

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glass and rope table lamp

Zander Lighting Yamba glass table lamp, $179, Temple & Webster

Zhush up the textural interest of your home with this maritime glass lamp. The earthy linen shade and knotted meshing around the stand enhance the warmth of its surrounding environment.

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palm tree lamp

Azalea table lamp in white, $142 (usually $189), One World

For those wanting an abstract take on classic Hamptons style, the furling palms of this lamp add a tropical flair to the home. With both functionality and aesthetic at the forefront of its design, it is the perfect centrepiece for any living area.

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The post 6 Hamptons style lamps that give a splash of laid-back elegance appeared first on Homes To Love.

Here’s a little interior design hack: coffee table books are the secret weapon of home styling. They are practical, beautiful, versatile, and give a pop of colour or serene calm to a room. They provide visual interest to an otherwise blank space (and inspire us to clear away all the other junk). Large travel books – and other large books you have on display – offer insight into your unique personality, showcasing your intrepid nature and impeccable style. No pressure.

These luxe books are aspirational, filled with stories and recipes, and beautifully photographed; designed to take you to the farthest-flung corners of the globe from the peace and comfort of your living room. Whether you’re looking to dream of Capri or Mexico, Bali or a caravan road-trip, pile these glossy, must-have volumes on your coffee table for some armchair travel this year.

SHOP THE BEST TRAVEL COFFEE TABLE BOOKS

Great adventures await in these stunning tomes that look too good to hide on your bedside table. These are the bona fide travel hitmakers, the ultimate round up of the best travel coffee table books out right now.

Australian Women’s Weekly Italian, $38.75, Booktopia

The photography in the book alone would be enough to spur us into booking a ticket to Italy pronto. Chapter openers show the incredible Italian landscape and scenes of la dolce vita. But it’s the food we’re obsessed with. Recipes for the likes of gnocchi fritti with marmalade or beef carpaccio with citrus dressing sit alongside shots of bold tablescapes, vibrant colours and bleached-out, sun-struck scenes. It’s a stunning book that would be as worthy as a coffee table book as it would be a special gift.

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The New York Times Explorer by Barbara Ireland

The New York Times Explorer: 100 Trips Around the World by Barbara Ireland (Taschen), $75, Booktopia

This is the literary person’s travel guide, the elevated to-go list for adventurous readers. The Times writers offer guidance, from the personal to the practical, along with a wealth of photographs that capture the catch-your-breath awe of each destination. Motor past pink sands and bougainvillea in Bermuda with Andrew McCarthy, follow Virginia Woolf’s footsteps through the English countryside with Francine Prose, or dare to pilot a boat through the Venice lagoon with Tony Perrottet. The New York Times Explorer takes travel beyond the obvious, and we love it for that. It’s hard not to be left thinking it’s time to get off the sofa and get out of here. SHOP NOW

Palm Beach

Palm Beach by Aerin Lauder (Assouline), $204.45, Amazon

Palm Beach social fixture and resident Aerin Lauder takes us through this chic destination from her very particular, and chic, perspective. Hedonists get a bad wrap, this book seems to say. Palm Beach is renowned as a luxury hideaway synonymous with old-world glamour and new-world sophistication, it’s a playground for British royalty, movie stars, and America’s leading families. Lauder reveals her favourite restaurants – like Nandos and Renatos – and invites us into premiere houses like La Follia and Villa Artemis. There’s a how-to on elite shopping on Worth Avenue, and scenic walkways such as the Lake Worth trail. Even the bold cover of this gorgeous book makes it on to our top-hit list.

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Vietnam: Morning to Midnight by Jerry Mai

Vietnam: Morning to Midnight by Jerry Mai (Publisher Books), $31.75, Booktopia

This is how Vietnam eats in a day, this cookbook reveals, but it’s as much a travel book as it is a recipe book. As the sun rises, mornings start early in Vietnam. Locals perch on plastic stools, slurping large bowls of beef pho, while others grab a crispy pork banh mi for breakfast on the go. Lunch might include delicious grilled meats piled high onto rice, or a cold noodle salad to help stay cool in the midday heat. It’s a culinary tour through the bustling streets of Hanoi or Hoi An, where snacks abound. Think: rice paper rolls, savoury pancakes, grilled and barbecued savoury snacks to round out the day. These are the dishes to take you straight to Vietnam, and explore its beauty through food. SHOP NOW

Remote Experiences: Extraordinary Travel Adventures from North to South by David De Vleeschauwer

Remote Experiences: Extraordinary Travel Adventures from North to South by David De Vleeschauwer and Debbie Pappyn (Taschen), $127.72, Book Depository

Photographer David De Vleeschauwer and travel journalist Debbie Pappyn take us to the world’s most remote destinations. This is an intriguing and stunning book that traces the globe north to south. Immerse yourself in 12 journeys that unfold through fascinating firsthand texts and enthralling photographs. Far from being a showcase of trips the rest of us may never go on, this beautiful book includes practical advice, travel tips, and real insight into travel away from the tourist trail.

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The Modern Caravan: Stories of Love, Beauty, and Adventure on the Open Road, by Kate Oliver

The Modern Caravan: Stories of Love, Beauty, and Adventure on the Open Road by Kate Oliver (Chronical Books), $39.31, Amazon

Celebrated Airstream builder and designer Kate Oliver invites you to contemplate the wilderness, the road, even your own backyard as we roam the world in a tiny and chic rolling home. Travel, adventure, stylish interiors, and expansive vistas await in this collection of travelogues featuring over 100 images and 35 different stories from solo travellers, couples, and families. Meet a family exploring Australia in a cozy vintage camper filled with plants and natural wood finishes; a young couple designing a modern trailer inspired by the colours and textures of the high desert; a husband and wife living in a chic Airstream with green velvet seating, floral wallpaper, and herringbone wood floor. SHOP NOW

The Vegan Guide to Tokyo by Chiara Terzuolo

The Vegan Guide to Tokyo by Chiara Terzuolo (Smith Street Books), Pre-order price $28.90, Booktopia

A travel guide for plant-based eaters, this beautiful guide is filled with photography from Japan’s bustling capital. Each page covers a new shop or cafe, a new town, a new idea on where to go and what to eat. Even hardened carnivores will find something to love in this book, which is as practical as it is enlightening. There are places to go off the beaten path, and plenty to see in Tokyo’s hub. This guide shows us that food is so good in Tokyo, it leaves no person (even vegans) behind. The Vegan Guide to Tokyo is released May 2023. PRE-ORDER NOW

Great Escapes Latin American by Angelika Taschen

Great Escapes Latin American by Angelika Taschen (Taschen), $54, Amazon

In this most recent release from the Hotel Collection by Taschen, Great Escapes Latin America spans the most beautiful, lavish, vibrant places to stay in this cradle of ancient civilisations. From the Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge in the Brazilian Amazon and the Uxua on the beach of Trancoso, for which a Dutch designer has transformed historic buildings into villas in ethnic style, the locations are varied and cultural powerhouses. Big Bang in Uruguay is a stay for glamping between the ocean and the forest. The armchair journey takes us through Mexico, and Columbia – with the picturesque Hotel San Pedro de Majagua on Isla Grande. At the Nantipa in Costa Rica, three friends have made their dream of the ideal beach hotel come true, and in Nicaragua an American brother and sister have found their own paradise on a private island, the Isleta El Espino. This book presents unique, almost breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and places with extraordinary hotels. SHOP NOW

Bali Mystique by Elora Hardy

Bali Mystique by Elora Hardy (Assouline Books), $206, Amazon

Assouline Books is founded on the French concept of savoir vivre, or ‘knowing how to live’, and the company is renowned for collaborating with world-famous designers, photographers, artists, and architects. The 2022 Bali Mystique is no exception, and it’s filled with breathtaking images of the black-sand beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, rice terraces, cliffside villas and vibrant locals that puts Bali at the top of so many design-led bucket lists. This linen hardcover book is a hefty addition to the coffee table by Canadian-born, Bali-raised sustainable designer and architect Elora Hardy. The book focuses on the magical spaces and natural beauty of the magnetic Indonesian island and frequent bucket-list topper. A hub for surfers, amazing bamboo architecture, and tourists seeking a faraway tropical paradise, Bali attracts millions of people in search of the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and a serene oasis for spiritual meditation. SHOP NOW

Off-Grid Adventures: 20 Untamed Travel Stories Around the World by Lien De Ruyck

Off-Grid Adventures: 20 Untamed Travel Stories Around the World by Lien De Ruyck (Lannoo Publishers), $40, Amazon

If “adventurer” is the look you’re going for, styling wise, then this 2023 book is what you need on your coffee table, shelf, end table, anywhere. Including 20 stories and amazing imagery from around the world, the book is daring, fun, inspirational. Visit the Japanese art islands of Naoshima and Teshima, go surfing in Korea, horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan, and hang gliding over Canadian glaciers. This book is off the well-trodden path, and everything that goes over most tourists’ heads. But that doesn’t mean you only get to sleep in a yurt, either. The book includes travel tips and guidance for the best places to go and to stay. SHOP NOW

St. Moritz Chic by Georgio Pace (Assouline), $195.51, Amazon

It’s not new, but this book remains a classic in the world of travel books for showing off your intrepid nature and impeccable taste. The 2020 book, with its muted and yet cheery cover, opens to images and stories from this town nestled in Switzerland’s Engadin Valley. St. Moritz stands on its own amid a sea of celebrated ski resorts, it’s home to history’s glitterati – think Gunter Sachs and Alfred Hitchcock, Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor. St. Moritz takes readers on a majestic tour of the hidden parties at Badrutt’s Palace, from the Winter Olympics to the Snow Polo World Cup, and much in between. This is a book to open with a bottle of Champagne. SHOP NOW

The post Travel books to spark your wanderlust appeared first on Homes To Love.

After sifting through our coin jars and searching underneath our car seats, this news really got us thinking about what other unknown valuable items we could have lying around the house.

On that note, we think it’s time to clear out the cupboards and check between the couch cushions for these surprisingly valuable items you might not even know you own.

1. Old Magazines

If you’re one of those people that find it hard to through away magazines, it may have been worth those years of lugging them around.

Magazines that have been around for decades, or those that no longer exist, can be considered valuable collectors’ items.

2. Vintage Furniture

As fashion trends come and go so do interior trends. Furniture that was popular back in your parent’s time is now highly sought after with the resurgence of retro, mid-century and vintage interior decorating.

If you’re not into the style yourself, it might be worth putting that 1960s teak Parker sideboard you’ve got stored away up for sale.

3. Old cameras

Are you hanging on to an old camera that you can’t even buy film for anymore?

If you know it’s going to sit on the shelf and continue to collect dust, consider getting it valued. There’s sure to be an avid photographer out there hunting for rare vintage models.

4. Rare coins or notes

That old penny you’ve been hanging onto your whole life might actually be worth a small fortune.

Although rare, coins like the Australian 1930 penny and, as we mentioned before, the 2000 ‘mule’ are worth more than their weight in gold to serious coin collectors. Find a local coin dealer or jump online if you think you’ve got some valuable loose change.

5. Books

While you probably don’t have the original copy of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (worth $2M!!) tucked away in your bookshelf, you may have some old classics, children’s books or even uni textbooks that are worth a bit of cash.

Sites like Amazon and Abe Books allow you to sell books online.

6. Stamps

Who didn’t collect stamps when they were a kid? Believe it or not, stamp collectors still exist! There are hundreds of rare stamps on eBay alone range from tens to thousands of dollars.

Dig out your old stamp collection and see if you have any winners!

7. Old china

With any kind of old pottery, dinnerware, or china, the embossed sign underneath could be a sign that an item is a collectible. Do a quick search on eBay to see if it might be worth something.

Keep a look out for fine bone china teacups by design houses such as Shelley, Wedgewood and Royal Doulton, as these are always sought-after items.

9. Glassware

Depression-era glass, carnival glass, even old soda bottles and vintage canning jars can be worth more than you think.

Have a look on Ebay or get an antique expert’s advice to find out what it’s worth before letting it go.

8. Jewellery

If you’ve got some old jewellery lying around that you no longer wear or want to get rid of due to the wrong kind of sentimental value, it’s worth looking into trading it in for cash.

Although it’s unlikely you will get back what you paid or what it’s worth, it’s a quick and easy way to make some money from unwanted goods. Look online for reputable dealers.

10. Records

Loved for their sense of nostalgia and intimacy, record players are making a comeback as a hip home accessory.

While old record players may not be of much value, some records are! If you’ve got some old Beatles records lying around, you could be sitting on a small fortune.

Maybe we should be hanging on to those old CDs?

11. Vintage bakeware

You might be surprised to know that your mum’s old CorningWare baking dish languishing in the back of the cupboard could be worth a small fortune.

The most common floral pattern is the instantly recognisable Cornflower range, which is still available to purchase today.

There are however, several rarer designs which could be worth a hefty sum. Look for rare designs that were originally introduced in the 1970s, such as the ‘Wildflower’ and ‘Floral Bouquet’ patterns. Dishes with these designs can fetch up to $10,000 at auction.

12. Old VCRs

Sure the humble VCR was outmoded almost a decade ago, but film buffs are still out there, searching for rare copies of their favourite blockbusters.

VHS tapes of the original Star Wars Trilogy and classic Disney films are the most valuable of the bunch.

13. Casette tapes

Call your dad and tell him to put his tape collection in the will. These old things – which no one thought would make a comeback – are again having their time in the limelight. Experts say a high-end cassette-buying trend is emerging.

Because cassette tapes declined significantly with the introduction of the CD, they are incredibly rare, a fact which has driven their value up in recent years. In 2016, a copy of The Artist album by Prince, sold for $4117 on Dsicogs.

14. Childhood Toys

Open up your toy cabinet and you could be sitting on a small fortune. Even if you’re a child of the 90s, there are some treasures to be found. Unopened miniature Polly Pocket sets, have been known to fetch up to $600 at auction.

Likewise, original Tamagotchis and rare Pokemon cards could be worth thousands. A Charizard Holo card from 1999 is worth upwards of $5000.

Valuable toys from the 80s include View Masters and Cabbage Patch Kids. Even things like the free toys you’d get in a Happy Meal could be worth a couple of hundreds of dollars.

15. Original Tupperware

For decades, Tupperware has had a dedicated fan base. Aficionados of the brand regularly scour auction sites for rare and unused vintage designs. A pair of mid-century ‘Millionaire Collections’ salt and pepper shakers could be worth up to $50-70.

Many original Tupperware designs, including the Wonderlier Bowls (which debuted in 1946) and the Servalier Astro Bowls (from 1972) have also retained their value, selling for around $30 a pop.

It may not seem like much, but considering many people purchased Tupperware in bulk, these small values will quickly add up to a decent fortune.

The post 15 surprisingly valuable things you might have lying around the house appeared first on Homes To Love.

Whether you’ve been using candle warmers for years or you’ve suddenly seen them pop up all over social media and you’re wondering what the fuss is all about, you’re at the right place. Here, we crack down on, well, what exactly candle warmers are, as well as the best places to get your hands on your very own.

What are candle warmers?

Candle warmers or candle lamps melt a candle – generally top down – without the need for burning the wick. Using a light/heat source at the top, simply place your scented candle jar below it and watch as the wax slowly melts while releasing sweet scents into your home. Plus, as there’s no flame involved, it means it’s safer to have around the house (especially if your household includes young children or pets), and your favourite jar actually lasts a lot longer in comparison.

Are candle warmers better than burning?

Candle warmers or lamps give the same result as burning a candle – it still provides ambient lighting while filling your home with your favourite scent. However, there’s no residue (say goodbye to soot on walls or the sides of your candle jar), no naked flame, and as the heat from a candle warmer is generally lower than a flame, it means that your candle lasts a lot longer as it absorbs heat at a slower rate.

There’s a lot to love about candle warmers. However, it is important to note that a candle warmer won’t be able to give that cosy ‘flicker’ effect. So, if that’s a deal-breaker for you, opting to burn your candle the traditional way may still be the way to go.

Where can I buy the best candle warmers in Australia?

If you’re like us, and you have a cupboard filled with scented candles waiting to be enjoyed – at a slow and steady (and safe) pace – then you’ll want to get yourself familiar with some of the best candle warmers that are available on the market right now.

Lucky for you, below are our top picks that are worth melting for.

white-candle-warmer

Candle warmer lamp with timer, $126.63, Etsy

Fitted with halogen lights and a timer, this candle warmer lamp is the perfect addition to any room. Plus, it’ll make the perfect housewarming gift.

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mushroom-candle-warmer

Candle wax melt lamp, $179.62, Etsy

If you’re obsessed with mushroom lamps (who isn’t), this rendition of a mushroom-inspired candle warmer will be right up your alley. With a step-less dimming switch and soft halogen bulbs, creating a cosy ambience at home is easy.

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lamp-candle-holder-warmer

Top-down electric candle warmer, $89, Amazon

If you’ve seen candle warmers pop up on your social accounts recently, then chances are this exact model is the one that keeps resurfacing – and there’s a reason why this one, in particular, is so popular. Its unique top-down design with a thoughtful glass lampshade is, well, undeniably adorable. Plus, with built-in grooves on the base to ensure your candle is safely in place when melting, it’s one of the safest ways to ‘burn’ a candle yet.

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brass-candle-warmer-lamp-dish

Psyyverii scented candle warmer lamp, $80, Amazon

Part candle warmer, part trinket dish. This brass number from Amazon is a multi-functional delight that will fit seamlessly within industrial or minimalist home designs.

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wooden-candle-warmer

Retro aromatherapy wooden candle warmer, $288.89, Etsy

This intricately-designed candle warmer is a work of art. Featuring a unique canopy design and an elevated checkerboard wooden base, it’ll turn any space into a relaxation haven. If you have the cash to splash, trust us, you won’t want to look past this gorgeous candle warmer.

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birdcage-lamp-candle-warmer

NEARUS candle warmer lamp in black, $86.99, Amazon

This birdcage-inspired candle warmer is a great pick for country or farmhouse-styled homes. Plus, with its built-in timer function, you can time your candle to be on as you come home or turn off while you sleep.

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candle-lamp-black-gold

Candle lamp, $89.95, Etsy

If you’ve had a scented candle on your office desk collecting dust (guilty) with no way of lighting it because it’s an office health and safety hazard, this is a clever solution that will give your colleagues ultimate office-desk-envy.

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amazon-candle-warmer-black-cone

Candle warmer with lamp, $54.99, Amazon

Adjust the brightness to just right for whatever mood you’re in with this stylish candle warmer from Amazon. Featuring a stylish modern cone-shaped shade that will spotlight your favourite scented candle perfectly, this candle warmer will look perfect on your bedside table or WFH desk.

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The post This is the new way to burn your candles, and it doesn’t involve a flame appeared first on Homes To Love.

But what if we told you that one of the simplest (and most effective) ways of styling your home involves something you can pick up for just a few dollars from your local supermarket? Yes, it’s true. Food – and most notably fruit and vegetables – can make for stunning and eye-wateringly affordable visual displays. And if you get bored of it, just eat it.

“We’ve been piling lemons, pears, apples, melons, frilly lettuces and bunches of herbs on our tabletops at home for decades,” wrote design doyenne Melissa Penfold in a post on Instagram recently. “They’re bright, colourful and cheerful, and a relatively affordable, easy and creative way to soften your rooms.”

Her post was in response to an article shared on Remodelista, a leading American interiors blog, which was reporting on ‘food as decor’ as one of the biggest rising trends this year. “Apparently consumables as decor are being used all over the place – from chunks of bread used as candleholders in New York restaurants to piles of humble potatoes as decoration in the chicest Parisian hotels,” she continued.

And so too on Australian shores have we been seeing food starting to grace the centre of our tables as more than simply something to eat. Multi-hyphenate creative Dani Dean of The Make Haus has the pleasure of setting the table at some of the most stylish weddings and events week after week. “Layering in fruit and vegetables can elevate the mood and provide shape and texture,” she shares. “We have styled fruits into towering totems and sculptures on tables [manipulated with skewers and toothpicks] or you can simply layer masse fruit into bowls, vessels or stands.”

Some of her favourite foods to use include figs, macadamias, zucchini, fresh olives, and passionfruit. “I prefer to use a palette which is earthy, tonal and muted,” she adds.

Similarly, designer Jono Fleming often incorporates various fruits and vegetables when styling interiors for magazines, and a lot of his advice can easily be applied to our everyday homes. “A bowl of lemons or any citrus is always a great way to add block colour to your table whilst instantly transporting you to a time and place – perhaps the Italian coast!” he says. “When in doubt, you cannot go wrong with a bowl of brown pears. They’re a great shape and they are also neutral so can go with most spaces.”

“Don’t mix your fruits with a tropical extravaganza, keep it simple and to one colour way. It could be a couple of melons, persimmons, a maroon passion fruit,” he adds in an Instagram post. “Quince is a personal favourite of mine for its great yellow hue without the clichés of throwing lemons in a bowl.”

He also recommends playing with height as another way to create a captivating vignette with food. “Don’t restrict yourself to big heavy bowls. Platters and plates help showcase the shapes of the fruit you’re using,” he says. “Cake stands and footed bowls are also quite an elegant edition to any kitchen or tablescape.”

• Style potted herbs on your benchtop instead of flowers
• ‘Tomato girl summer’ is a trending TikTok aesthetic for a reason – there are endless tomato varieties and colours
• Store eggs in a bowl on your table (as long as they’re farm-fresh!)
• Arrange fruits and vegetables en masse or in like colours
• Opt for uncommon fruits like lychees, dragon fruit, heirloom tomatoes, Buddha’s hand, artichokes, kohlrabi, romanesco broccoli

Our favourite ‘food as decor’ ideas

So next time you head to the supermarket, why not stay a while in the fresh produce section and see what you can find. The weirder the more wonderful in this case. And it doesn’t need to be much either, even just an aesthetic melon that matches the colour of your kitchen joinery can do wonders in your space.

Looking for longer-lasting styling options?

The post Why you should be styling your home with this supermarket staple appeared first on Homes To Love.

Whether you’re looking for interior or horticultural inspiration, or simply to add visual interest, pile these glossy, must-have volumes atop the tables in your home.

the best design coffee table books

belle beautiful australian homes

Belle Beautiful Australian Homes Volume IV, $29.95, Booktopia

In this grand tour of the inspiring abodes brought to life by Australia’s top interior designers —think Adelaide Bragg, Smart Design Studio, Greg Natale, Tamsin Johnson, Tobias Partners, Arent&Pyke, Kennedy Nolan, Alexander & Co and Thomas Hamel — this beautiful book reflects the diversity of Australian design.

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melissa penfold living well by design

‘Living Well by Design’ by Melissa Penfold, $44.95 (usually $70), Amazon

This book is the culmination of three decades spent working in the world of interiors. Inviting your inside her own home, and into some of the most stunning across the globe, Melissa Penfold details the principles of style, and how to incorporate them into your own home in order to create a space that will leave you both living and feeling well.

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garden life richard unsworth

‘Garden Life’ by Richard Unsworth, $30.79, (usually $39.99), Amazon

Written by Richard Unsworth, a leading landscape designer and contributing writer for Belle, this book doubles as a work of art. Each page features gardens filled with his signature flair, whether adjoined to a harbourside mansion, inner-city terrace or beyond. He details the process of growing gardens that foster connection, and encourage us to embrace our outdoors.

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love shack susan redman

‘Love Shacks’, $45.50 (usually $59.99), Booktopia

In this beautifully illustrated book, design journalist, book author and lifestyle editor Susan Redman journeys to some of the most gorgeous getaways — including a sherbet pink beach shack — inspiring readers with the many decorating ideas on show, and delving deeper into the personal stories of the creative people who have built, styled or restored them.

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a century of colour in design

‘A Century of Colour in Design’ by David Harrison, $39.99, QBD Books

While the no-colour brigade has a strong following, there are many who believe a hint of tint adds a frisson to objects and interiors. This book chronicles a century of bold and innovative use of colour in furniture, lighting and decorative pieces, from Ettore Sottsass’s ‘Carlton’ room divider and Poul Henningsen’s ‘PH5’ pendant light to Konstantin Grcic’s ‘Sam Son’ armchair, indicating that the liberal use of colour seems to lead to more whimsical creations.

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edgy-architecture

‘Edgy Architecture’ by Agata Toromanoff, $40.59 (usually $69.99), Amazon

True to its title, this book explores design that is not just cutting edge but right on the edge – of mountains, clearings, rocky escarpments and cliffs. And whether the structures resemble a pair of binoculars or stack of irregular shaped boxes, these are unique and distinctive properties, and their interaction with the surrounds and striking views are a given. There’s inspiration aplenty in these pages for creating something dramatically different.

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live beautiful book

‘Live Beautiful’ by Athena Calderone, $43.95 (usually $65), Amazon

Creator of the popular EyeSwoon lifestyle website, design buff Athena Calderone has penned this expressive tome, gathering the homes of 19 international tastemakers including Nate Berkus and Oliver Gustav that illustrate her ethos of current yet classic living. With her own natural ability to curate diverse design pieces and imbue spaces with personality, she encourages readers to “tinker with, explore and ultimately find your own design gold at home”.

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style

‘Style: the Art of Creating a Beautiful Home’ by Natalia Walton, $48.90 (usually $65), Booktopia

Style demystifies the creative process of styling in a practical way so that you can redecorate your living space with ease.

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Architectural Digest at 100 by Amy Astley, $108.50 (usually $180), ABRAMS

Published for the magazine’s 100th anniversary, this special edition book celebrates the rich visual history of the publication – featuring the personal spaces of notable people such as David Hockney, the Obamas, David Bowie and Truman Capote.

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Adventures in Eden

‘Adventures in Eden’ by Carolyn Mullet, $50.50, Catch

With overseas travel off the agenda, this book offers a wonderful consolation, providing a visual portal into some of the most magnificent gardens in Europe. Profiling 50 private properties from England to Scandinavia, the author includes a dissertation on their history, connection to the surrounding area and an overview of the planting. Some have been designed by well-known landscapers such as Louis Benech while others are the labour of love of their passionate owners and all are lavishly photographed.

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‘By the Sea’ by Barry Stone, $19.50 (usually $49.99), New Holland Publishers

Such a simple yet evocative title sets up expectations of wonderful watery escapism and the book does not disappoint. A rollcall of stellar beachside properties – homes, hotels and restaurants – from Normandy to Long Island and Queensland to Capri are presented in dazzling photographs that perfectly capture the ambience of the coastal locations and the exquisite sense of wellbeing that comes from being ‘by the sea’.

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KitchenLiving-book

‘Kitchen Living’ by Tessa Pearson, $87.95, Amazon

This book is kitchen goals on steroids. Author Tessa Pearson has harnessed all the latest ideas for the favourite room in the house from professional cooks, photographers, food writers and designers around the world. From rustic to industrial, quirky to elegant, there’s a recipe for every style.

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australian-landscape-designers

Belle Australian Landscape Designers, usually $69.99, Magshop

Belle has teamed up with acclaimed garden and interiors photographer, Nicholas Watt, and regular Belle contributor, Chris Pearson, on a fabulous gardening tome. Australian Landscape Designers showcases the work of 26 leading Australian landscapers whom, with their talent for all things horticultural, have created jaw dropping green spaces.

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principles of style

‘Principles of Style’ by Sarah Andrews, $38.50 (usually $49.99), Simon & Schuster

The stylist behind one of Tasmania’s most sought-after shacks, Sarah Andrews approaches design with an almost scientific lens. In this book, she chronicles some of her key projects, analysing the design principles evident, and providing practical lessons the reader can take away to employ in their own space.

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HauteBohemians-book

‘Haute Bohemians’ by Miguel Flores-Vianna and Amy Astley, $76.75 (usually $110), The Vendome Press

As the title suggests this is an incredibly stylish and eclectic assortment of the homes of artists, interior designers, landscape architects and fashionistas, ranging from chateaux to beachside bungalows across four continents. Captured by well-travelled photographer Flores-Vianna, the images are a fascinating glimpse into the world of free-spirited and unconventional people and their charming abodes.

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the-complete-book-of-colourful-interiors

‘The Complete Book of Colourful Interiors’ by Irene Schampaert and Iris de Feijter, $99, Dymocks

Not everyone wants to live in a beige universe and this volume certainly prosecutes the case for surrounding yourself with brilliant colour and the consequent uplift in mood. With expert tips and pages saturated in hues, all the tools are provided to confidently create a vivid living space.

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mountain-view

‘Mountain View: The Perfect Holiday Home’ by Sebastiaan Bedaux, $59.75(usually $99), Booktopia

Belgian lifestyle and travel writer Sebastiaan Bedaux had the enviable task of selecting the places to include in the first of the Nature Retreats series featuring the world’s most exquisite holiday homes. This volume includes 30 homes located on a mountain or in plain sight of one, from Australia’s southern highlands and New Zealand’s Mount Aspiring to California’s Death Valley, prime off-piste locations around Europe (the Swiss alps, Italy’s South Tyrol and more) and the greatest peaks of all, the Himalayas. The good news? Every one of them is available for rent.

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‘Zaha Hadid Architects: Redefining Architecture and Design’, $74.25 (usually $99), Booktopia

The legendary Baghdad-born architect had been producing this book at the time of her sudden death in 2016 and the team at her London firm completed it in her honour. Subtitled Redefining Architecture and Design, this volume reveals the collaborative philosophy behind the creation of the soaring, curving masterpieces that make up her life’s work, many of which are now icons and landmarks around the world.

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nina-campbell-interior-decoration

‘Nina Campbell Interior Decoration’ by Giles Kime, $75.95 (usually $125), Booktopia

A doyenne of the interior design industry, Nina Campbell espouses that particular style of comfortable, luxe, English country house chic that is completely devoid of fads. Her timelessly elegant schemes are testament to the philosophy that good pieces last forever, with rooms peppered with antique oak furniture, sofas upholstered in lavish fabrics and an abundance of plump, inviting cushions, perfectly swagged curtains and whimsical wallpapers. Her career has spanned nearly 50 years, and here she recounts her journey as a designer, documents projects around the world and shares her styling secrets.

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modernist-design-complete

‘Modernist Design Complete’ by Dominic Bradbury, $86.75 (usually $120), Booktopia

‘Complete’ is the word for this sweeping survey 
of modernist design. Media and Masters captures the era’s futuristic looks and pure lines in graphic and industrial design, furniture, lighting and objects in the first 300 pages. In part two, Houses and Interiors illustrates the works of architecture’s giants, among them Arne Jacobsen, Alvar Aalto, Mies van der Rohe and Frank Lloyd Wright.

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‘Kit Kemp: Design Thread’, $43.35 (usually $60), Hardie Grant London

Never shouty or showy, London-based hotelier and interior designer Kit Kemp’s style is playful and decidedly sophisticated. Her roomscapes deftly stitch together colour, pattern and texture, artworks old and new, and custom pieces and found furniture and objects. This book shows the resulting vignettes to be works of art in themselves, delighting the eye and uplifting the soul.

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The post 20 coffee table books design enthusiasts will love appeared first on Homes To Love.

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when or why the mushroom lamp has resurfaced as a décor (and social-media) darling in 2023. For a new generation of interior designers – both professional and hobbyists – the 1970s mushroom lamps can be a playful way to shake up décor and connect it to nature. After all, nature has been making its way indoors, literally via indoor plants or more figuratively via colour and shape, for years.

In the amped-up, Instagrammable world, we are always looking for something new, or extraordinary, and the mushroom lamp is far from basic. And so the design inclined are bombarded with Instagram hashtags #mushroomlove, #mushroomporn and #mushroommonday, and mushroom lamps are cropping up everywhere.

The original Murano mushroom lamps, which are hand blown in Italy, retail for around $3,000. The homewares world has come to the budget-wary’s rescue by recreating, tweaking and making its own this iconic shape. The original lamps where almost ribbed, the various tones in the glass giving out their own unique colours and light. Mushroom lamps typically give a subdued light, so are not the right choice for a desk where more direct light may be desired. In the bedroom, lighting can be soft and varied, and a little bedside lamp can offer enough to read by, or to keep the evening mood just right.

Here are some worthy renditions of the original mushroom lamp, to meet all budgets.

11 must-have mushroom lamps to shop now

urban outfitters mushroom lamp

Ansel table lamp in Blue Multi, $170, Urban Outfitters

The retro swirl of these all-glass table lamps make them a fine alternative to the original 1970’s Murano classics. The Blue Multi colour will vary in colour as they’re made with real glass, so no two are the same. The bulbed base and swirl are as mushroomy as lamps come, and the brown swirls just add to the whole vibe.

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hard to find mushroom candle

Munara Home Mushroom candle lamp, $94.95, Hardtofind

This pearlescent glass candle holder adds a touch of retro to your home. Made of 100% soy wax, it emits a gorgeous black-fig-and-guava scent. This twist on the traditional fragrant candle will give you 80 hours of burn time.

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Indigo love table lamp

Indigo Love bolzano table lamp in Nude, $199, Aura Home

An elevated mushroom fit for the most sophisticated bedsides. The Bolzano table lamp blends a range of inspiration from mid-century product design to European mountain ranges. It comes in a range of chic and timeless colours that pay homage to the tones and hues of Italy – think terracotta, lichen green and white.

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urban outfitters mushroom lamp

Little glass table lamp in gold, $84, Urban Outfitters

In gold or taupe, this sweet little lamp looks like it sprouted straight up from a chic landscaped garden. Perfect for your nightstand or bookshelf display, this little table lamp features a shaped glass vessel with a standing construction and open top. Frosty glass shade emits a warm glow. It comes in taupe, white, green and sky.

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Normann Copenhagen lamp

Normann Copenhagen Porta table lamp in White, $280, Aura Home

Take this lamp with you wherever you plan to go. The garden! Camping! To the sofa! Porta is the first portable lamp in the Normann Copenhagen lighting collection. The distinctive lamp shade is designed to accommodate the need for pleasant, atmospheric lighting in smaller settings, such as windowsills, small coffee tables, or shelves.

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freedom cosh mushroom table lamp

Cosh table lamp in Celestial Blue, $55.50 (usually $69.96), Freedom

This best-selling mushroom-shaped lamp from Freedom comes in five beautiful hues. We love its domed shape and chubby base, which mimics the shape of a mushroom. It reaches just 30cm high, so is sturdy enough not to be knocked over as you reach for the snooze button on your phone in the dark. It also comes in white, black, dark green and warm rust.

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USB dimmable mushroom bedside lamp

Dimmable mushroom lamp with USB, $28.92, Amazon

This LED glass mushroom light has a USB cable that can connect to a power outlet or laptop, and if you hold down the little button underneath you can also dim the light. That’s a bright idea for a little lamp – they didn’t have that feature in the original mushroom lamp in the 1970s.

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ikea tokabo table lamp glass

Tokabo table lamp, $15, Ikea

Standing at a petit 15cm high, this sweet little button mushroom of a lamp gives a soft glow to the smallest spaces. It’s one for a bookshelf or bedside, where a subtle hue is the goal. This is a perfect lamp for children’s rooms when placed just out of reach. Pop it on to gently signal night time, or to add warmth on cool winter mornings.

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dome table mushroom lamp freedom

Dome table lamp, $239 (usually $299), Freedom

This hugely popular lamp by Freedom has been a bit of an Instagram favourite, bringing charm and a vintage vibe to any room with its moody brass finish. With its large size and sculptural form, the lamp doesn’t hide in the background, but would you even want it to?

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Ikea Dejsa mushroom table lamp

Dejsa table lamp in Beige and opal white glass, $69, Ikea

This beautiful lamp by Ikea has chrome details and uses softly shaped hand-blown opal glass. The result is a soft, dim light that reflects on the slightly glossy cream base of the lamp. This one is destined to be a design classic.

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Freedom table lamp mushroom mischa

Mischa table lamp, $512.05 (usually $539), Freedom

This mid-century moment might never move on, and that’s fine by us. This beautiful lamp has a mushroom-shaped dome with a luxurious smooth marble finish. The base is a brushed brass and the lamp creates a warm glow.

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The post Here’s where to shop those mushroom lamps that are popping up everywhere appeared first on Homes To Love.

Not only is this swap incredibly easy when compared to updating bigger furniture pieces like your coffee table or dining table, but it’s also an affordable way to spruce up your living space, sans the commitment.

Nonetheless, whatever the reason is for your urge to refresh your living space, it’s safe to say that some new cushion covers should definitely be high on your agenda. So, if you’re ready to embark on this journey, we have you covered – the cushion kind.

Read on for our picks of the best cushion covers to shop in Australia, this year.

The best cushion covers to shop in Australia 2023

the-iconic-basil-bangs-striped-cushion-cover

Basil Bangs indoor/outdoor cushion cover in daydream, $75, THE ICONIC

Colourful and stripey, without overdoing it. This cushion cover from Basil Bangs is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, crafted from a water-repellant and stain-resistant canvas, it’s a versatile piece that is ideal for high-traffic zones within the home.

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hommey-beige-pillow

Big velvet cushion cover in French fizz, $59 (usually $89), Hommey

Hommey is home to the boldest cushion covers on the market, from bright pinks to cobalt blues. However, there are also hues for the minimalist too – like this pale cream that will look perfect on an occasional chair.

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freedom-beige-stripe-fringe-pillow

DAITAN cushion cover with fringe, $44.96, Freedom

Etched with tones of beige in a fun stripey design accentuated by fringes on the borders, it’s the perfect addition to both an outdoor setting and the living room.

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blue-lilac-bed-threads-pillowcase

Mineral & lilac 100% French flax linen scalloped European pillowcases (set of two), $120, Bed Threads

Gorgeously scalloped edges frame this European-style pillowcase from Bed Threads. Crafted from 100 per cent French flax linen and available in a variety of colour combos, our pick is this beautiful pale grey and lilac number – just place it on whichever seating spot you see fit within the home for an instant refresh.

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sausage-dog-pillow-blue

Dash In Sausage Dog cushion cover in denim, $10 (usually $12.95), Pillow Talk

Add some character and fun to your living space with this adorable cushion cover from Pillow Talk. Available also in pink or beige.

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marimekko-the-iconic

Marimekko Kalasski cushion cover, $51.80 (usually $74), THE ICONIC

If you look closely, this cushion cover by Marimekko features an organic vertical striped pattern that makes it stand out from the crowd. Plus, this muted mustard hue is a great piece if you’re decorating the home for Autumn.

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white-textured-pillow

Luxton linen & cotton cushion cover, $22.95, Temple & Webster

Add an inviting textured element to your bed or sofa with this cushion cover from Temple & Webster. Available also in black, charcoal grey, beige, mustard or navy blue to suit your existing home decor style.

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The post Spruce up your living space with these cosy cushion covers appeared first on Homes To Love.

And, if you’re like us, we believe that every decor piece within the home must be purposeful and meaningful. Whether that’s bringing in a vase to add fresh flowers to a mantel or it’s choosing a coffee table book for the lounge, finding these small trinkets is a lengthy task.

If it wasn’t obvious already, coffee table books are one of our favourite pieces of home decor to invest in. Not only does it act as a source of inspiration (think: a physical Pinterest board) but it also makes a beautiful base for a coffee table vignette. And for the design-lover, architecture coffee table books are a must.

So, if you find yourself always looking for new ways to redecorate the home, or you just love reading and immersing yourself in outstanding architecture from around the world, below we’ve curated our edit of the best coffee table books that acts as blueprints for your future architecturally-inspired home.

The best architecture coffee table books to read

soft-minimal-book

Soft Minimal: A Sensory Approach To Architecture And Design by Norm Architects, $146.25, Booktopia

Soft Minimal is the first monograph by Norm Architects. It’s a curation of the works which have made them key figures of Nordic design. With projects highlighted hailing from Scandinavia, Italy and Japan, we see designs that speak to all senses.

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koichi-takada-coffee-table-book

Koichi Takada: Architecture, Nature, And Design by Koichi Takada and Philip Joididio, $104.35 (usually $150), Amazon

Japanese-born, Sydney-based architect Koichi Takada is widely celebrated for his innovative holistic approach to design. And in his first monograph Architecture, Nature and Design, we are treated to beautiful photographs of buildings and interiors that juxtapose against images and sketches of nature. With words and commentary by Philip Joididio that guides the reader through a range of inspiring global spaces, it’s a coffee table book that exudes architectural brilliance.

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kerstin-thompson-architects

Kerstin Thompson Architects: Encompassing People and Place designed by Leon van Schaik, Stuart Geddes and edited by Fleur Watson, $45.35 (usually $59.99), Booktopia

Flick through and discover the work of Australia’s most exciting architectural practices, urban designers and landscape architects in Encompassing People and Place by Kerstin Thompson Architects. With stunning imagery, sketches and drawings selected from Thompson’s archive and discursive texts, this monograph provides insight into the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of architectural design.

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architecture-in-the-20th-century

Architecture In The 20th Century by Gabriele Leuthäuser and Peter Gösse, $150, SSENSE

With 31 chapters of large-format photos as well as a plenitude of drawings and floor plans, Architecture In The 20th Century highlights “starchitects” to lesser-known names around the world with a wealth of ideas, trends, and transitions that defined the 1900s.

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Resident Dog: Incredible Homes And The Dogs That Live There by Nicole England, $38.75 (usually $49.99), Booktopia

We peer into a world of architecturally superb houses that feature the presence of a furry friend – the resident dog – who brings warmth and life to the most dramatic spaces. From mid-century raw brick to a penthouse apartment, gracious Edwardian to Scandinavian modern, from beach house to country retreat, there is always room for a dog or two. So, if you’re a lover of dogs with a knack for beautiful spaces, this is the coffee table book for you.

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Accidentally Wes Anderson by Wally Koval, $42.25 (usually $55), Booktopia

If you’re a film fanatic but also love architectural design, then there’s no other coffee table book that would be as fitting. Accidentally Wes Anderson features stunning photographs of real places that seem…unreal. Unreal in the sense that they seem like they are plucked straight out of a Wes Anderson movie.

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The post Perk up your mind and your coffee table with the best books about architecture appeared first on Homes To Love.

According to reliable sources (such as, um, Google), the earliest example of an egg cup was found in the ruins of Pompeii, dated about 75 AD. A pair of Roman silver egg cups, which were nearly 2,000 years old, fetched almost $250,000 at a Christie’s auction a few years ago. Mind blown.

If collecting very old egg cups is your thing, you’re in good company; egg-cup collecting is a popular hobby. It even has a name: pocillovy (an egg-cup collector is called a pocillovist). But if you’re just a lover of gooey eggs on a frosty morning, the hardest part is choosing just one.

Just in time for Easter, we’ve rounded up 13 beautiful, well-crafted egg cups for every style and budget. Happy trivia for those who don’t eat eggs: egg cups work very well as sake cups. Just saying.

etsy handmade egg cup

Handmade egg cups by Eeli Art Studio, $42.31, Etsy

These unique egg cups prove that small things can leave a big impression. They’re rustic and chic, ready for propping up your morning (chick) egg – get it? Buy a few and enjoy that each one is slightly different, adding an unfussy and yet elegant vibe to the breakfast table. Gift wrapping is available from this Etsy store, so you can send them to your lucky recipient directly.

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Saarde egg cup

Saardé olive wood egg cup, $39, The Iconic

This isn’t just an egg cup. It’s a handmade artefact using natural, sustainable olive wood carved by craftspersons in Tunisia. Durable and non-porous, each piece is unique and may become darker, richer and more beautiful as it ages. They come in a set of two.

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Bordallo Pinheiro egg cup

Bordallo Pinheiro eggshell with whole chick, $55, Father Rabbit

Beautifully hand painted, this egg cup features a sweet little chicken beside its eggshell. It’s bordering on gauche but with its excellent quality that’s what is so appealing about it. Nobody needs serious with their morning eggs.

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Recycled plastic egg cups

Recycled egg cup, $17.95, Precious Plastic Melbourne

Breakfast never felt so feel-good. To help combat the problem of landfill and ocean waste, each of these egg cups are produced by hand and made entirely of 100 percent post-consumer recycled materials – 10 locally sourced, reclaimed plastic bottle tops to be precise. These trash-to-treasure pieces come in three colour options – marble, colour lucky dip or opal, which is pictured here.

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red bus egg cup

Red bus ceramic egg cup, $31.69 (usually $48.75), Etsy

Is there a child alive who would not want their dippy egg presented in a bright red double decker bus each morning? No, there is not. What they also want is this chocolate bunny. This sweet little bus measures 8×6 cm and fits a normal chicken egg in its rooftop. Deliveries are free from this Etsy shop, and there are regular discounts, so get in before you miss the, well, bus.

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Heaven in earth wooden egg cup

Heaven in Earth wooden egg cup, $4.95, Miss Arthur Home Goods

Add a touch of warmth and beauty to breakfast with these 5cm tall beech wood cups. Create a family tradition by bringing these out at Easter. They will develop a patina over time, but don’t we all? Avoid putting these beauties in the dishwasher, and gently brush with warm water to remove stubborn egg.

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Le Creuset green egg cup

Le Creuset egg cup in bamboo green, $12, Myer

This cup looks like it has come straight from the garden, had a lovely rummage in the spring foliage, picked up a fresh egg and arrived on your breakfast table. This vibrant green egg cup by Le Creuset is scratch-resistant and made to last. Bring it out when your morning needs a little more colour.

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Mud

Porcelain egg cup, $50, Mud Australia

Mud porcelain dinnerware is all handmade in Sydney, and comes in 20 colours that seem to reflect the land of surf, sand, ocean, desert and open skies. Go all out and collect the Aussie rainbow.

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Hard To Find – black is blue egg cup

Set of 2 egg cups, $50, Hardtofind

This egg cup designed by Danish ceramicist Anne Black is hand painted with a sweet blue snowflake on the inside and base of the cup. (Truly as individual unique as a snowflake.) Matching sugar bowls, teapots, bowls and trays are also available.

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chicken egg cup

Chicken egg cup tray, $37.76, Etsy

They look as vintage as egg cups can look – and that’s saying something – but these sweet little trays are actually handmade and ready for free delivery to you. This is one for the three-egg eater (they do exist) but it’s also a great way to serve eggs at the table, ready for the plucking.

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salt & pepper egg cup

Salt & Pepper Relic egg cup in white mist, $4.47 (usually $8.95), Myer

A place for everything and everything in its place. Prop your egg in its ceramic divot and lay the buttered toast soldiers beside it. Breakfast feels organised and has all the beachy and summery vibes with this pretty cup and saucer in one by Salt & Pepper. And remember the salt and pepper.

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Sian Thomas

Egg cup in Mint, Green or Royal Blue by Sian Thomas, $15, Kith & Kin

Sian Thomas is a Blue Mountains-based artist whose passion for ceramics was inspired by the miniature China tea sets she played with as a child. This is a lovely little egg cup for those mornings when only an egg will do.

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Temple & Webster

Bendo Yolk steel egg cup in Yellow, $7.70, Temple & Webster

There’s nothing fussy about a boiled egg, so why should the cup that holds it get carried away? This minimalist cup comes in five colours, including copper, to cater for every mood your morning brings.

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The post 13 cracking good egg cups for Easter appeared first on Homes To Love.

One textile that has reigned supreme year on year is linen. A popular textile amongst interior design fiends – particularly as we enter the warmer months – linen has made its mark in both the home and fashion landscape, and with good reason.

Why is linen so popular?

It’s a natural fibre, meaning it’s perfect for the environmentally conscious (and for all for that matter). With a lower envrironmental impact than alternatives such as cotton, it’s an obvious choice for many. Plus, if cared for properly, it is a durable fabric that will become a staple in your home.

Linen curtains, in particular, aren’t new. It’s light and airy and has been a key player in many design styles, from coastal and rustic through to contemporary industrialism and boho, just to name a few.

So, if you’re looking to refresh your home just in time for spring, we’d recommend investing in a pair (or two) of white linen curtains. Below, we’ve rounded up our top picks.

The best white linen curtains to invest in this season

linen-adairs

Home Republic vintage washed linen curtains, from $149.99 (usually $279.99) at Adairs

Perfect for rustic abodes, this pair of vintage washed linen curtains by Home Republic is sophisticated and timeless. Plus, it’s pre-washed so it’s extra soft and ready to hang asap.

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i-love-linen-white-curtain

White curtain set, $215 at I Love Linen

Transform your space into your relaxation haven with this dreamy set by I Love Linen. Made from 100 per cent French linen, it’s simple and perfect for the minimalist.

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hardtofind-sheer-white-linen-curtain

Sheer linen curtain panel in perfect white, $218 at Hardtofind

A great option for the summer months is this sheer linen curtain panel from Hardtofind. Use it to filter out harsh sunlight without looking bulky, or use as dividers to create separate zones within your home.

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hardtofind-linen-curtain-perfect-white

Stonewashed linen curtain in perfect white, $238 at Hardtofind

Handmade from pure linen, this stonewashed curtain from Hardtofind will bring a natural element to any home. Simply loop a curtain rod in its in-built rod pocket, and watch your space transform in an instant.

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pillow-talk-sheer-white-linen-curtain

MUSE washed white sheer linen curtain, from $199.95 at Pillow Talk

Soft and delicate, the MUSE white linen curtain is semi-transparent and is perfect for diffusing glare of harsh sunrays while also bringing in the much sought-after natural light. Made from Belgian flax linen and pre-washed for a relaxed, lived-in look.

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cultiver-white-sheer-linen-curtain

Linen curtain in white, $180 at Cultiver

Made to be styled, gathered and pooled on the floor for an effortless look, these white linen curtains from Cultiver are to die for. Crafted from 100 per cent European flax and featuring easy-to-hang hidden loops, we’ll hang onto these for seasons to come.

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Lead photo: Hardtofind

The post White linen curtains: a home design staple we can’t get enough of appeared first on Homes To Love.

We spoke to Anthony Spon-Smith, co-CEO and chief creative officer of Coco Republic, about the stunning stone he’s chosen to include in his Summer 2022 collection.

“Calacatta marble is distinctive with its thick, bold veining,” he says. “Rather than plentiful soft veins of a marble like Carrara, Calacatta’s hallmark is fewer but more dramatic and unstructured veins.”

When it comes to styling such a statement piece, he recommends taking the less is more approach. “It’s better as a feature,” he says. “It has such a strong aesthetic – one solid piece will lift a whole room.”

While definitely not the most affordable marble, we’ve found nine ways you can incorporate this luxury stone into your home – from marble plinths to coffee tables and even lamps.

Shop Calacatta viola marble pieces

Sculpted Calacatta viola marble lamp by Henry Wilson, $3720, 1stDibs

This piece of art looks stunning as is, but also happens to be a functional lamp. Hand sculpted in Sydney, it measures 35cm in height and creates a calming ambience when switched on.

Veneta console table, $2995, Coco Republic

With a smooth, curvaceous form, the Veneta marble console table sure does make a statement. The veins on each piece are completely unique, making it a beautiful addition to your living space or hallway. Also available in a travertine.

Marble plinth side table, $999, harpers project

Whether for beside your bed, the sofa, or for displaying art or flowers, the stone for this viola marble plinth has been hand selected from European quarries and is available to purchase with Afterpay.

Pegasus console table, $8595, Coco Republic

A stunning structural piece requires little styling to make a feature. The perfect size to run along your hallway or feature in your living room, it’s carved out of Calacatta viola marble that’s thousands of years old.

Polar bowl in merlot and viola, $195, Greg Natale

A simpler way to incorporate this stunning stone into your space is with this bowl from Greg Natale. Featuring both viola marble and the deeper rosso levanto stone, it’s a beautiful way to store your jewels.

Veneta coffee table, $4595, Coco Republic

A statement piece for any style, the Veneta marble coffee table is beautifully curved and features unique dark veining. “I wanted to use Calacatta viola on shapes that were relatively simple to attain a juxtaposition of drama with simplicity,” says Anthony Spon-Smith, co-CEO and chief creative officer of Coco Republic.

Brera floor mirror, from $4200, Just Adele

Designed to be striking from all angles, the Brera floor mirror is designed and made in Melbourne, and adds a touch of Italian grandeur to your space.

Sculpted Calacatta marble lamp by Henry Wilson, $6696, 1stDibs

Hand sculpted in Sydney, this stunning lamp measures 40cm high, and doubles as a piece of art. Also available in different marble finishes.

Bella bedside, from $1700, Just Adele

Featuring a sleek and minimal design, the Bella bedside lets the marble do the talking. With an internal shelf, it’s perfect for beside your bed or sofa. Handmade in Melbourne, it can be customised to suit your requirements.

The post How to incorporate Calacatta viola — the most luxurious marble — in your home appeared first on Homes To Love.

For those unable to look after the living, breathing options, artificial indoor plants (or what we’ve come to describe as fauxliage) are a great, no-maintenance option. Luckily for you, gone are the days of glaringly plastic options, and there are plenty of deceivingly natural appearance available today, making them an ideal fauxliage option for those looking to achieve the ultimate zen aesthetic in your home.

From hanging plants, succulents, cactus and leafy, lush fiddle-leaf figs, here are 10 faux indoor plants and trees that look just as good (if not better!) than the real thing.

Artificial Baby Tears Plant, $29, The Plants Project

Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant, $299, West Elm

Artificial Dracaena Plant, $29, Kmart

Desert Cactus, $68.81, Artificial Plant Shop

Artificial Olive Tree, Knotted Trunk, $455, Living Styles

Calathea Fasciata Green/Red, $189.98, Artificial Plant Shop

Artificial Kentia Palm Tree, $319, The Plants Project

Spathiphyllum, $169, Freedom

Artificial Wandering Jew Bush, $49, The Plants Project

Desert Cactus, $63.46, Artificial Plant Shop

The post 10 of the most convincing artificial indoor plants appeared first on Homes To Love.

Textured cushions, plush throws and ambient candles are a good place to start but it’s a statement rug that proves the greatest way to beat the winter chill, adding warmth and texture to a space. Considering investing in a rug? Here are four tips to help you make the right choice.

1. Consider the function of the room your rug will be in

For high traffic zones – such as the hallway – you’ll want to seek out something that will add an extra layer of comfort, stand as a statement as well as be hard-wearing and durable. For zones such as the dining room, look for a large rug that will neatly sit under dining furniture, ensuring you can pull out chairs without the rug lifting.

When it comes to the living area and bedroom, you’ll want a plush rug that’s going to make the room feel cosy throughout the season. Soft underfoot with thick woven threads, the Emerson Rug from Weave Home is our pick. Made from New Zealand wool, this luxuriously thick rug is exactly what you’ll want underneath your feet on those chilly winter mornings.

2. Consider the size and shape of your rug

When it comes to the size of your rug, it should be large enough to help you define the space of your room. For living areas, the rug should be able to sit underneath the front legs of a sofa and if you have one, the coffee table, too. Remember, undersized rugs can actually distort a space.

The shape of rug you choose for a room will be determined by factors such as your style, existing furniture and the size of your space. Square and rectangular rugs are a popular choice as they are easy to style and create definition.

Top tip: Before purchasing your rug, make sure you measure out the parameters of your chosen room. Don’t forget to also measure the rug as listed measurements can sometimes be inaccurate.

3. Don’t be scared to play with textures

The material and texture of your rug will play a big part in determining whether it’s winter appropriate. While tight-knit cotton material rugs are great for summer, rugs with coarser textures are better for winter.

It seems like the most obvious choice for winter – as it pairs wonderfully with similarly textured cushions and provides visual interest – but shag rugs are actually very high-maintenance and aren’t particularly trans-seasonal.

Try selecting something more durable and long-wearing like a woollen or viscose blend rug with a mid to loose weave. The texture of the rug will make any room look cosy in winter and the materials will also bring added warmth and insulation to your home.

4. Pick complementary colours and patterns

When it comes to choosing the tone and pattern of your rug, it’s important to pay attention to the existing colour palette and furnishings of the room the rug will be.

If you find the palette of your room is quite neutral, don’t be scared to make a bolder colour choice with your rug. To keep within the tones of winter, opt for a rug in a deep blue, grey, dusty pink or burgundy. On the contrary, if the styling in your room is already quite busy, choose a more neutral-coloured rug.

If you’re looking to make a statement, go for a patterned rug. With a clean, fresh take on the diamond motif of a Berber rug, the Denali Rug from Weave Home is visually striking but also forgiving in high-traffic zones — a perfect choice for busy family homes.

Brought to you by Weave Home

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