Homes to Love https://www.homestolove.com.au/homes-to-love/ Homes to Love is the online hub for Australia’s most-trusted homes and interiors brands including Australian House & Garden, Belle, Country Style and Inside Out. Fri, 07 Jun 2024 00:55:14 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.3 https://www.homestolove.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2024/01/cropped-HomesToLoveFav-02-1-32x32.png Homes to Love https://www.homestolove.com.au/homes-to-love/ 32 32 All of the best homewares and furniture sales happening right now https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-homewares-sales-australia-23138/ Fri, 07 Jun 2024 00:50:20 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-homewares-sales-australia-23138 Breathe new life into your home without having to pay full price!

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When it comes to redecorating your home on a budget, there is one mantra savvy shoppers always stick to: never pay full retail price. That’s why major sale days like End Of Financial Year Sales, ClickFrenzy, Black Friday, Cyber Monday or even Boxing Day as marked in bold in our diaries.

And if you’re reading this sentence, you’re in the right place – as savings are waiting to be had thanks to End Of Financial Year Sales and Mid-Year sales that are happening right now.

So, buckle up and get ready to shop ’til you drop with the help of our up-to-date list of the best homewares and furniture sales deals, below.

Our tip? Bookmark this page and return often to shop for all the fresh new bed linen, throw cushions, or stylish indoor plant pots you’ve been coveting without putting a dent in your savings. We’ll be updating this page often for your convenience. You’re welcome.

The best homewares and furniture sales on right now

armadillo rug

01

Armadillo Winter Refresh sale

Up to 60% selected rug styles

Armadillo is offering up to 60% off a range of their coveted handmade rugs plus, free metro shipping to sweeten the deal. Armadillo aren’t know to have sales often so this is one you don’t want to miss.

02

Cultiver’s Welcome offer

15% off sitewide. Use code ‘WELCOME15’

Beloved homewares brand Cultiver is rarely on sale. However, with its sneaky welcome offer of 15 per cent off (using code ‘WELCOME15’), you can grab coveted home pieces at a discount.

03

Emma Sleep’s EOFY sale

Up to 55% off

Save up to 55 per cent off Emma’s award-winning mattress range, sofa beds, pillows and bedding during the brand’s EOFY sale. Did we mention Emma also offers a 100-night trial on all products and free delivery and returns? A restful night’s sleep has never been easier.

04

Ecosa EOFY sale

up to 35% off sitewide

If you’ve been considering making over your bedroom, there’s no time like the present. Ecosa is offering up to 35 per cent off sitewide during its EOFY sale – on now!

05

Hommey’s Home Decor sale

Up to 50% off selected products

From bold throw pillows to fun-printed beach towels, Hommey is our go-to whenever we’re on the hunt for an injection of colour into our home (and life). And with savings of up to 50 per cent off on fabulous faux fur cushions and fleece throws, we’ll be stocking up cosy winter buys ASAP.

06

Sleep Republic EOFY sale

15% off sitewide

You can shop supportive mattresses, kids mattresses, bed sheets, dog beds, bed bases, pillows, and more at a discount thanks to Sleep Republic’s EOFY sale that is on right now!

07

Adairs Mid-Year sale

Save up to 40% + further 5% off for Linen Lover

If you’re looking to cosy up your bedroom for the cooler months, be sure to check out the sales over at Adairs. Currently offering a up to 40 per cent off select items, finding your next set of new bed linen for a luxurious sleep – and more – is just a sale away. But get in quick, this sale is on for a limited time only.

08

Amazon’s Mid Year Sale

Generous savings sitewide

Amazon treats us to Mid-Year Sale deals that are just too good. With generous savings across its plethora of categories from homewares, robot vacuums, kitchen and home appliances to beauty, fashion and more, finding your next home upgrade is easy.

09

Sleeping Duck sale

Generous savings sitewide

Leading mattress brand, Sleeping Duck, offers year-round savings via their enticing bundles. So, if you’ve been eyeing their mattress for a while, the time to buy is now. You can save up to $200 off the Sleeping Duck bundles, so, what are you waiting for?

10

Temple & Webster’s EOFY sale

Up to 50% off select items

Temple & Webster’s EOFY sale – on now – will see you saving up to 50 per cent off the retailer’s gigantic catalogue of home items. From sofa beds to area rugs, you’ll find your new favourite home piece. Plus, you can take an extra 10 per cent off almost everything when you spend $149 or more.

11

Aura Home EOFY sale

up to 50% off

Save on beautiful bedlinen, luxurious bath towels and design-led homewares at Aura Home’s EOFY sale. Whether you want to add some new linen sheets to your bedding collection or a new fluffy bath towel, the time is now to start shopping.

12

Freedom’s Absolutely Everything On Sale

20-60% off furniture, up to 50% off homewares

With Absolutely Everything On Sale, you’ll want to start browsing for your new home furniture piece ASAP.

You can save…

  • 20-50% off all sofas
  • 20-60% off all outdoor furniture
  • 20-60% all dining furniture
  • 20-60% off all living furniture
  • 20-60% off all bedroom furniture
  • 20-60% off all storage furniture
  • Up to 50% off all rugs
  • Up to 40% off all wall art
  • Up to 40% off all lighting
  • 20-60% off all mattresses

13

THE ICONIC’s End Of Season sale

Various savings sitewide

THE ICONIC is offering huge savings off homewares like linen bedding, fluffy robes, tech accessories (including headphones and earphones), kitchenware and much more, as part of its End Of Season sale. Save on brands such as Sheridan, Joseph Joseph, Linen House, Palm Beach Collection and more.

14

Lounge Lover’s EOFY sale

Up to 50% off + extra $100 off if you spend $799 or more

Lounge Lovers is offering up to 50 per cent off select items. And if you spend over $799, you can grab an extra $100 off, too. So, if you’ve been eyeing up that gorgeous sofa bed or dining table for a while now, the time is now to add-to-cart.

15

Canningvale’s 7 Day Supersale

Save up 75% off sitewide

Save up to 75 per cent off on bedroom, bathroom and living ranges; breathing new life into your home is made easy and breezy. Now that’s what we call a sale!

16

Myer’s Stocktake sale

Various savings sitewide

With huge savings on bedding and towels, dinnerware, small appliances like coffee machines, vacuums, air fryers, and much more, Myer’s Stocktake sale will help you ready your home for any occasion.

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armadillo-rug-blush Cultiver-1 emma-sleep-mattress hommey-cushions-1 Brace yourselves, the EOFY sales are coming Brand logo of Homes to Love Temple and Webster Cesca replica dining chairs around a timber dining table Brand logo of Homes to Love koala bed homestolove-23138
A double mattress is the Goldilocks size that is perfect for couples and individuals https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-double-mattress-25056/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:24:38 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-double-mattress-25056 Double the size, double the comfort.

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When it comes to choosing a mattress, finding one that has all the perfectly engineered comfort layers is one thing, but choosing its size is another.

Choosing the size of your mattress begins with the size of the room in which you plan to place it in. Whether that’s the master bedroom – which often has more space – or it’s in the guest bedroom or kids’ room, finding a size that works for each unique room is crucial.

Moreover, deciding if you’ll be sharing this bed with a partner or whether you just need enough space for one will also impact your decision. If you’re trying to decide if a double mattress is the mattress size for you, or if you’ve already decided and you’re looking to find the best double mattress to add to your home, then you’re at the right place.

What are the best double mattresses to shop?

If you’ve already done your research for all the best mattresses to shop in Australia, but you’re after recommendations for double mattresses in particular, you’re in luck. Below, we’ve rounded up the best ones to shop.

01

SD MACH II double mattress

$1399, Sleeping Duck

If you’re unsure which mattress firmness you’re after, Sleeping Duck offers a 100-night trial that allows you to test your mattress out (as well as different firmness levels) until you find one that’s perfect for you. The SD MACH II double mattress features a breathable bamboo cover, a layer of high-density AirGrown polyurethane foam, and a multi-zoned support system to suit different parts of your body while you sleep.

Key features:

  • BreatheTech cover
  • Antigravity surface foam
  • Interchangeable firmness system to adjust it to the way you like it

02

Koala mattress

$1090, Koala

Featuring the brand’s Kloudcell Foam, the Koala double mattress is incredibly comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep is always on the cards. Plus, with its multi-layered ergonomic support zones, it helps you maintain an even healthier sleeping position as it works to take the pressure off your shoulders, back, hips, knees and feet.

Key features:

  • Flippable firmness
  • Kloudcell foam
  • Breathable cover

03

Origin Hybrid Pro mattress

$1249 (usually $2269), Origin

Seeking cloud-like comfort in your next double mattress? The Hybrid Pro mattress by Origin features an extra-plush pillowtop for a dreamy night’s sleep. Plus, if you’re a hot sleeper, you’ll be pleased to know that this mattress will keep you super cool for up to 16 hours thanks to its SmartClimate system.

Key features:

  • PolarSilk Tencel cover
  • D3-edge support
  • Extra-cooling bamboo foam

04

Ecosa mattress

$1050 (usually $787.50), Ecosa

Currently on sale, this double mattress by Ecosa is a crowd favourite – and with good reason. With adjustable firmness ability, it means you can choose between three firmness options whenever and as often as you like. Simply arrange the internal foam layers to create a personalised firmness level that works for you. Moreover, with its waterproof Tencel cover, your mattress will be protected from spills and debris, making maintenance a breeze.

Key features:

  • Adjustable firmness
  • Ergonomic support and spinal alignment
  • Reduced allergy risk

05

Emma Comfort mattress

$695.40 (usually $1159), Emma

With an average of 4.7 stars from 6000+ reviews on ProductReview.com.au, the Emma Comfort mattress is a favourite amongst Aussies. Plus, it was voted Product of the Year 2023 (under $1500) so you know your sleep is in good hands when it comes to a mattress by Emma. The Comfort double mattress features open-celled foam technology that provides premium support for your body, at an affordable price.

Key features:

  • Emma’s top-rated mattress
  • Adapts to your body
  • Designed for Australian sleepers

06

Comfort Classic mattress

$770 (usually $1100), Eva

Packaged in a compact box, the Comfort Classic double mattress by Eva will make setting up your bedroom easy. Featuring a dreamy layer of plush memory foam coupled with the premium support of pocket springs, you’ll have your best night’s sleep with this double mattress. Plus, with a 100-day trial, you can test it our for yourself to ensure that this mattress is right for you.

Key features:

  • Medium-firm mattress
  • Hybrid design of high-quality memory foam and twice-tempered pocket springs
  • Anti-microbial and cooling gel memory foam

What size is a double mattress?

In Australia, double mattresses are generally 1385 x 1900mm.

Is a double mattress suitable for couples?

Given its size, a double mattress can be suitable for couples. However, if you’re looking for a sleeping solution that offers you and your partner more moving space, then a double-sized mattress may be a bit snug. If space is what you’re after (and you have the room for it), we’d recommend opting for a Queen or King size mattress instead.

However, if you plan to share your bed occasionally – say when family visit for the weekend – then a double-sized mattress is a good size that can accommodate the occasional sleepover.

Nonetheless, a double mattress works well for individual sleepers who tend to roll around while they sleep – or just love the luxurious option of having more space (who doesn’t?). However, it is still a good mattress size for couples who don’t mind sleeping closer together.

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koala-mattress-2 The best kids’ mattresses you can buy in Australia Brand logo of Homes to Love The best memory foam mattresses to (literally) sink into Brand logo of Homes to Love queen-mattress-cottage-bedroom Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-25056
6 stylish oval dining tables that are spacious yet compact https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/oval-dining-table-24892/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 05:34:05 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/oval-dining-table-24892 The best of both worlds.

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If you’re looking for a dining table that helps give the illusion of a bigger dining space while also being big enough to cater to larger households -or more guests- then an oval dining table should be at the top of your considerations.

Perfect for soirees, rounded dining tables not only negate the possibility of table corner-inflicted injuries but also invite conversation. Although the couch and the kitchen bench have become the unofficial dining table after a long day at work, the dining table remains the congregation point for birthdays, family get-togethers, dinner parties and afternoon teas. You’ll likely have your dining table for years to come, so choosing the right one is key.

Is an oval a good shape for a dining table?

Consider an oval dining table the perfect medium between a generous rectangle dining table and a compact round dining table. Its soft rounded edges help reduce the amount of ‘dead space’ generally found with traditional rectangular dining tables (and is a tick according to the principles of feng shui), giving you more space to move freely within your dining space. An oval-shaped dining table also allows for more guests at the table when compared to a traditional round dining table and enhances conversational flow as each person is able to see one another.

In short, yes!

Still not convinced? Take a look at these stylish and simple oval dining tables that lend themselves to Instagrammable dinner parties and everyday living.

The best oval dining tables to buy in Australia 2024

Brighton oval dining table from Castlery in a modern living room

01

Brighton oval dining table

$849, Castlery

This mid-century modern-style number features a gorgeous walnut table top and structural base softened by rounded edges. Natural variations to the timber add visual intrigue while the table’s rich timber tone emanates warmth into any space.

02

Nobleu Interiors NOIRI dining table

$1,999, Freedom

Make a statement with this black dining table from Nobleu Interiors. Crafted from oak and featuring curved legs, this piece offers a classic modernist look that would suit spaces with a monochromatic palette.

03

Loop dining table 220cm in Oak

$2,499, RJ Living

Made from solid European oak, this Scandi-style dining table is minimalist yet impactful in its design. Thanks to its sturdy construction, curved edges and warm natural finish, the Loop lends itself perfectly to aesthetically pleasing dinner parties. The table is available in three sizes: 140cm, 180cm and 220cm.

04

Clover marble oval dining table

$1,699, Lounge Lovers

A replica of Eero Saarinen’s 1959 ‘tulip’ design, the Clover is a classy marble dining table that elegantly echoes the hallmarks of space-age design. Topped with beautiful Italian Carrara, each tabletop has different veining, meaning no two are the same.

05

Keys Road Designs Sade dining table in Citrus

$1,199, Temple & Webster

If you’re after a statement piece, this burnt orange dining table from Keys Road Designs could be the one. Supported by a chunky base, the oval tabletop accommodates up to six people, making it a great choice for those who like to entertain.

06

ARCO dining table

$1,399, Freedom

If you prefer a glass-top table, the ARCO from Freedom is an elegant option with a visually intriguing oak trestle base. The table seats four to five people and gives the illusion of taking up less space thanks to the glass top.

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Castlery-Brighton-Oval-Dining-Table-Lifestyle-Crop freedom-black-noiri-dining-table rj-living-loop-dining-table lounge-lovers-clover-oval-marble-dining-table Temple-and-Webster-Sade-Dining-Table freedom-arco-dining-table linen checker tablecloth Brand logo of Homes to Love georg-jensen-the-jardiniere-collection Brand logo of Homes to Love round dining table handmade ceramics Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-24892
Cult bridal label, Grace Loves Lace owner lists luxury beachfront Palm Beach home for sale https://www.homestolove.com.au/home-tours/grace-loves-lace-beachfront-gold-coast-home/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 04:50:35 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=256835 All the while building a stunning Portuguese-inspired escape on Yugambeh Land.

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Megan and Wade Ziems of Grace Loves Lace are no strangers to impeccable style and design. From Megan’s early days laying French laces and fabrics with her mother, a designer, to starting her bridal dress company adored by many, Megan’s and (husband and CEO), Wade’s names have since become synonymous with effortless, luxurious style. And their recently listed Gold Coast home is no different.

Designed by architect Jared Poole and standing on the shores of Palm Beach, the modern Mediterranean haven listed for sale promises a lifestyle of luxury and visual masterpiece. The pared back design complements the panoramic vistas, and is heavily inspired by Megan’s time spent in Spain and Portugal. Her weakness? “Portuguese architecture.”

A showstopper, while still being incredibly family friendly, the prestige beachfront home exudes laidback glamour and sophistication. From the jaw-dropping beach views enjoyed from every room, to all the high end mod cons, rendered curves and creamy stonework, this build is as stunning architecturally as its picturesque location.

And, by the sounds of it, their next build is set to be even more impressive. “I’m currently working on a project that will be finished by the end of the year, with a focus around a nod to traditional Fincas,” Megan shares in a profile piece on her website. “Working with the land and building sustainably is so important to me, so it’s largely constructed from rammed earth and stone. I’ve named the project Finca Talluca – a combination of my two kids names (Tallow and Luca), corny I know, but that’s what mums do.”

With comparable sales made in recent years at neighbouring properties ranging from $8,100,000 to $16,950,000, it’s safe to say the final sale price of their Palm Beach home could comfortably find itself in the eight figures.

The four-bedroom, four-bathroom, four-car home at 159 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach QLD 4221 listed by Amir Prestige principal Amir Mian, and Ross Tomain with Vince and Linda Lock, is set to go to auction on July 1st, 2024.

With what will become part of the agreement with the new owners, it will continue to be leased until 27 February 2026, and is listed at $5,500 per week.

On the market

Inside Grace Loves Lace owners’ Palm Beach home

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-exterior-three-storey
Photo: Domain

Three storey living

Epitomising absolute beachfront luxury, the three storey home maximises all of its internal space, sitting pretty on a 412 square metre block on the sands of Palm Beach.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-lobby-interior-pool
Photo: Domain

The entryway

Views abound from the moment you set foot inside this architectural home, from the lap pool to the open ocean, all perfectly complemented by its neutral interiors.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-kitchen-views
Photo: Domain

The kitchen

Light and sea breezes flow through the Spanish-style kitchen with a handcrafted stone bench and desert-wood cabinetry taking centre stage.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-beachfront-dining
Photo: Domain

The open-plan living

Sea breezes permeate the open plan home, with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling stacker doors the only thing separating you from the crystal clear, gentle waves of Palm Beach.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-dining
Photo: Domain

The dining area

The perfect place to host many a long lunch with extended family and friends, the long dining table will be where happy memories are made following a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-outdoor-entertaining
Photo: Domain

The outdoor entertaining area

Take just one step outside and the sands of Palm Beach will welcome you home.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-balcony-beachfront-views
Photo: Domain

The views from the first floor

The first floor begets more panoramic ocean views, seen here from the additional living space and balcony.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-dining-wind
Photo: Domain

The rumpus room

The first floor becomes the central place for comfortable entertaining, with an additional dining space, rumpus room, kitchenette, home gym and sauna, home office, and guest bedroom with an ensuite.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-bedroom-views
Photo: Domain

The main bedroom

Ascend another level and you’ll find yourself in the most relaxing place to lay your head. The main bedroom makes full use of its prime location with its neutral styling and serene colour palette calling your attention to the waves down below. A further two king sized bedrooms with walk-in robes are also found on this upper level.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-bathroom-views
Photo: Domain

The ensuite

Could you imagine a more luxurious view from the bath?

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-exterior
Photo: Domain

The balcony

Southerly views from the private balcony point to the ever-recognisable Currumbin Rock.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-lap-pool
Photo: Domain

The lap pool

If the ocean’s not your thing, you can enjoy a dip in the sparkling heated magnesium lap pool running alongside the home.

Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-beachfront-home
Photo: Domain

The location

You’ll be hard pressed to find more a more coveted beachfront location anywhere in the Sunshine State.

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Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-exterior-three-storey Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-lobby-interior-pool Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-kitchen-views Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-beachfront-dining Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-dining Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-outdoor-entertaining Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-balcony-beachfront-views Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-dining-wind Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-bedroom-views Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-bathroom-views Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-exterior Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-lap-pool Grace-loves-lace-gold-coast-beachfront-home Gold Logie winner, Rebecca Gibney has “reluctantly” listed her idyllic Dunedin home for sale Brand logo of Homes to Love charlie-albone-country-home Brand logo of Homes to Love nagi-hunters-hill-home Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-256835
10 best office chairs that will elevate your WFH setup https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-office-chair-24355/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 04:23:56 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-office-chair-24355 Ergonomic, stylish and well worth the investment.

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With WFH setups moving away from simply claiming a small cramped up corner on your family dining table to having standing desks, multiple monitors and ample lighting, it’s only natural that Aussies are investing a lot more time and effort when researching about the biggest player in the working from home space – the office chair.

Which office chair should I buy? Is a good office chair important? What is a kneeling office chair?

These are just some of the questions and queries that occupy our minds when we’re looking into buying a new chair for the home office.

The star of the show, some may say, the office chair has come a long way since its infancy. With models now offering an abundance of customisation options, ergonomically-tailored designs and ones that fit seamlessly with your already existing home aesthetic. Not to mention the newest office chair contender – the one of the kneeling variety.

As, undoubtedly, there is a lot to consider when choosing the best office chair for you – preferences, styles, quality and make, and different price points – to save you the hassle, we’ve consolidated our pick of the best office chairs you can buy this year, below.

2024’s top office chairs

  1. ErgoTune Supreme ergonomic office chair in Aqua Blue, $799, Amazon (here’s why)
  2. Steelcase Series 1 office chair in Nickel, $3383.92, Amazon (here’s why)
  3. Pago Nest home office ergonomic chair in pink, $339, Officeworks (here’s why)

The best office chairs to buy in Australia 2024

ergotune office chair

01

ErgoTune Supreme ergonomic office chair in Aqua Blue

$799, Amazon

The ErgoTune Supreme chair comes in three striking colourways, a classic charcoal black, a bright coral red, or a pale aqua blue. It features 11 adjustable points for a tailored fit and all-day comfort – plus, its auto-adjusting lumbar support is a gamechanger.

Colours: Aqua Blue, Coral Red, Charcoal Black

Key features:

  • 11 adjustment points
  • Auto-adjusting lumbar support
  • Breathable mesh back

02

Steelcase Series 1 office chair in Nickel

$3383.92, Amazon

If you’re looking for a good quality office chair from a trusted brand, Steelcase is well worth considering. Designed for comfort, the Steelcase series 1 office chair features an adjustable armrest that is designed to stay parallel to your desk despite any degree of recline you may prefer. Its 3D MicroKnit mesh back allows air to pass through to ensure you’re seated comfortably all work day long.

Key features:

  • LiveBack flexor system for ergonomic back support
  • Fully adjustable arms
  • Premium seat cushion design
  • Reclining options for healthy active sitting

03

Pago Nest home office ergonomic chair in pink

$339, Officeworks

Featuring a medium-height back, the Pago Nest home office chair is a stylish addition to your home office. This office chair is an ergonomic pick thanks to its waterfall-edge designed seat that reduces pressure on your legs when in use, its Posturesure Synchro mechanism which moves the backrest in a dixed ratio, and adjustable armrests. Further, it’s AFRDI Blue Tick rated, meaning it is tested to AS/NZS 4438 standards as a sound, durable, and ergonomic office chair for home or commercial use.

Key features:

  • Waterfall-edge seat design
  • Adjustable arms
  • AFRDI Blue Tick rated
  • Posturesure Synchro mechanism

04

Eames replica softpad fabric office chair

$349, Temple & Webster

This Eames replica office chair features a high density foam padded seat for extra comfort. Its timeless design and neutral linen-like upholstery will look right at home in any modern home office.

Key features:

  • Timeless and chic design
  • Extra padding for added comfort

05

Hbada office chair with flip up armrests

$478.03, Amazon

If you’re after a sleek and simple design without missing out on all the supportive features of a traditional office chair, this model by Hbada is a great option. Its simple design means it can fit with most home design styles and its ergonomic and breathable back rest provides comfortable seating all day long. Plus, you can flip the arms up so you can tuck the chair in snugly when not in use.

Key features:

  • Ergonomic and breathable backrest
  • Adjustable arms
  • Simple and sleek design

06

Varier Variable Balans original kneeling chair

$779.08, Amazon

Variable was one of the first prototypes of the kneeling chair – first introduced in Copenhagen in 1979. There are different positions in which the user can use this chair in, its curved runners allow for a gentle rocking motion, the tilted seat enables you to sit in an open hip angle, and the padded cushions at the front can be used to rest your shins or feet depending on your mood.

Key features:

  • Original kneeling chair design
  • Curved runners for gentle rocking when in use
  • Lightweight

07

Artiss ergonomic office chair mesh

$94.95 (usually $99.95), Amazon

If forking out upwards of $500 on an office chair isn’t within the budget at the moment, there are an array of more affordable options out there too. For example, this office chair by Artiss will elevate your WFH just the same.

Key features:

  • Flip up armrests to fit snug under your desk
  • Soft supportive cushioning
  • Adjustable lumbar support
  • Mesh-knit back

08

Physioflex kneeling chair

$377, Elite Office Furniture

If you’re wanting to dive into the world of kneeling office chairs, this one from Elite Office Furniture will do the trick. Kneeling office chairs are said to relieve lower back pain and are popular for users who are seeking options to improve posture too.

Key features:

  • Kneeling foam pad to promote active sitting
  • Adjustable seat height
  • Space saving design

09

OREN office chair

$119 (usually $299), Freedom

Another stylish (and affordable) option is the Oren office chair from Freedom. This fully upholstered leather-look office chair leans mid-century modern in its design, and features a gas lift powered adjustable height lever – a must in our books.

Key features:

  • Upholstered modern leather look
  • Adjustable height

10

Herman Miller Aeron chair, Medium (B) in Graphite

$2367 (usually $2785), Living Edge

With a price point upwards of $2000, it may cause a few double takes. However, the Herman Miller Aeron chair has all the credentials to back it up. It’s a great office chair for those who work completely from home, it’s one of the few models out there that has completely adjustable and customisable options – meaning you can really tailor it, down to the t, for you.

The Herman Miller Aeron office chair was first manufactured in 1994, and later redesigned in 2016 and is an icon of modern design. So much so, it’s featured in the permanent collection of New York’s Museum of Modern Art.

That’s right, this office chair is art.

You can adjust this chair all the way down to how tight the chair’s spinal support is. It goes without saying this chair is incredibly comfortable and supportive – and with a mesh back, it means it’s breathable for days where you are stuck behind a screen (voluntarily or otherwise). So, if you have the extra cash to splash, getting your hands on this bad boy will not disappoint.

Key features:

  • Fully adjustable and customisable
  • Icon of modern design
  • Comfortable and supportive mesh back

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ergotune office chair pago-ionternational kneeling-chair I made it my mission to find the most stylish pieces for my home office and here’s how it went Brand logo of Homes to Love The ultimate buyer’s guide to standing desks, the home-office must-have Brand logo of Homes to Love 20 inspiring home office ideas Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-24355
These top meal kits make vegetarian eating ever so easy https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-meal-kits-for-vegetarians-24273/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 03:09:25 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-meal-kits-for-vegetarians-24273 Everything you need in one tasty box.

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If your current diet consists of only plant-based meals, or you’re wanting to switch to being a full-time vegetarian for the first time, there has never been an easier time to do so.

There’s no shortage of new vegetarian-friendly and flavour-packed meals to indulge in. And, you can even skip the prep and create delicious, vegetarian-friendly dishes at home with meal kit deliveries.

So, if you’re looking to make the change or just want to make plant-based eating much easier, we’ve gathered some of the best meal kits in Australia that offer vegetarian recipes.

The best meal kits for vegetarians in Australia

hello fresh meal kit

01

Hello Fresh

3 meals for 2 people per week: $34.99 (usually $70)

When unboxing your HelloFresh delivery, expect to find easy-to-follow recipe cards with locally sourced ingredients that are pre-portioned in sustainable packaging to help you keep a healthy and less wasteful lifestyle.

You can whip up plant-based favourites like a Chermoula Chickpea and Pumpkin Buddha Bowl, a Caribbean Lentils & Pineapple Salsa or Plant-Based Chick’n and Herby Wedges.

Number of people: 2, 4, or 6

Recipes per week: 3, 4 or 5

Key features:

  • Get up to $135 off when you sign up to a subscription
  • Plan deliveries to fit your schedule

02

Marley Spoon

3 meals for 2 people per week: $40.74 (usually $74.94) + free shipping (usually $10.49)

Eat healthy, delicious meals with menus from Marley Spoon that are made up of approximately 20 per cent vegetarian and vegan recipes.

As a veggie lover, not only will you be able to eat until your heart is content, but you can plan for the week ahead with the meal kits and save yourself the struggle every day.

Number of people: 2, or 4

Recipes per week: 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6

Key features:

  • $6.79 per serving (usually $12.49) – based on 3 meals for 2 people meal plan
  • Plan deliveries to fit your schedule
  • Flexible subscription allows you to pause or cancel your subscription

03

Dinnerly

3 meals for 2 people per week: $35.34 (usually $50.94) + free shipping (usually $10.49)

Dinnerly lets you choose from a range of chef-designed weekly recipes to create vegetarian, vegan, and/or no added gluten meals at home.

Not only will it complement your lifestyle and food preferences, but the convenience of having everything delivered right to your door is unbeatable.

Number of people: 2, or 4

Recipes per week: 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6

Key features:

  • $5.89 per serving (usually $8.49) – based on 3 meals for 2 people meal plan
  • Plan deliveries to fit your schedule
  • Flexible subscription allows you to pause or cancel your subscription

04

EveryPlate

3 meals for 2 people per week: $48 + $9.99 shipping

With EveryPlate, you can choose a dedicated veggie meal plan that has a variety of veg-forward meals, and also customise your recipes to your taste or preference.

You can either add extra veggies to a meal or swap out your protein, veggies, carb or dairy – it’s entirely up to you.

Number of people: 2, 4, or 6

Recipes per week: 3, 4, 5 or 6

Key features:

  • $8 per serving – based on 3 meals for 2 people meal plan
  • Each box comes with handpicked ingredients and recipe cards
  • Flexible subscription allows you to pause or cancel your subscription

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hello fresh meal kit Table for one? The best meal kits for a one-person household Brand logo of Homes to Love Expect nothing short of value with these 4 best meal kits Brand logo of Homes to Love There’s something for everyone in these top family meal kits Brand logo of Homes to Love 5 of the best meal kits to take a load off your plate homestolove-24273
Temple & Webster’s huge 2024 EOFY sale is on now https://www.homestolove.com.au/decorating/temple-and-webster-sale-24535/ Wed, 05 Jun 2024 07:16:33 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/temple-and-webster-sale-24535 Save big across a wide range of homewares, bedding, furniture and more.

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As seasoned online shopping experts and bargain hunters, it’s safe to say that we always have our eyes on the prize. And by prize, we are referring to a huge sale from none other than Aussie homewares retailer Temple & Webster.

If you’ve gone through the trenches of styling your new abode or you’re refreshing a guest bedroom for the new season, you’ll be well acquainted with the huge selection of furniture, bedding, and home staples from Temple & Webster.

Whether that’s a new sofa bed for the sunken lounge or a comfortable memory foam mattress to sink into after a long day at work, finding your next home buy (big or small) is always sweeter when it’s on sale.

Lucky for you (and us), Temple & Webster’s EOFY sale has arrived. Until July 1, you can save up to 50 per cent off thousands of products. And, to help you shop smarter, not harder, below, we’ve curated our favourite buys that we’ll be adding to cart ASAP.

Happy shopping!

Our picks of the Temple & Webster 2024 EOFY sale

Marcel Bruer Cesca Replica dining chairs from Temple and Webster

01

Marcel Breuer Cesca Replica velvet cantilever dining chairs (set of 2)

$299 (usually $349), Temple & Webster

A replica of the iconic and timeless 1928 Cesca chair by Marcel Breuer, this velvet-clad iteration exudes modern style with its clean lines and tasteful touch of rattan. Pair these chairs with a classic timber dining table or make them the star of the show alongside a round glass table.

Jude 3 Seater Slipcover Sofa

02

Jude 3 Seater slipcover sofa

$999 (usually $1,999), Temple & Webster

Can you tell we’re obsessed with all things olive green right now? Comprised of feather-filled cushions, this soft and pillowy couch beckons to be napped on. Its cotton slipcovers are also removable, making the couch easy to clean and care for.

Paola and Joy Mila table lamp

03

Paola and Joy Mila table lamp

$159 (usually $169), Temple & Webster

With its gently pleated shade and sculptural base, this lovely piece from Paola and Joy is a sophisticated statement to liven up the smaller corners of your home.

Love for Luxe Tate arched metal wall mirror

04

Love for Luxe Tate arched metal wall mirror

$99 (usually $129), Temple & Webster

Timelessly elegant, this arched mirror is set in an iron frame and is designed to elevate your space. Thanks to its lightweight construction, it can also easily be hung on the wall or propped up on a buffet counter.

Monty cotton bathroom 6-piece towel set in Tan

05

Monty cotton bathroom 6-piece towel set in Tan

$39.95 (usually $99.95), Temple & Webster

Is it time to upgrade your tired towels? This warm, rust-coloured set from Temple & Webster is both stylish and a bargain at $60 off.

06

Lifestyle Floors Beige Skandi reversible wool rug (240 x 330cm)

$349 (usually $449), Temple & Webster

Handwoven from 100 per cent wool, this soft Scandi-style rug is sure to add warmth to your space. It also comes in a range of sizes, from a 160cm by 230cm size all the way up to a 300cm by 400cm size.

07

Living Fusion Kamden Rubberwood armchair

$219 (usually $249), Temple & Webster

This contemporary timber armchair makes for the perfect reading chair or, more realistically, laundry chair. Taking design cues from modern Danish design, the chair features curved timber armrests which contrasts nicely against the cream-coloured foam cushioning.

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Marcel+Breuer+Cesca+Replica+Velvet+Cantilever+Dining+Chairs Temple-and-Webster-Jude-3-Seater-Slipcover-Sofa TempleandWebster-MilaTableLamp TempleandWebster-BlackTateArchLongMetalIronFloorMirror TempleandWebster-Monty-Cotton-Bathroom-Towel-Set TempleandWebsterBeige-Skandi-Reversible-Wool-Rug-NORD TempleandWebster-KamdenRubberwoodArmchair cultiver luna collection Brand logo of Homes to Love Let’s shop! Amazon’s Mid-Year Sale is here Brand logo of Homes to Love Brace yourselves, the EOFY sales are coming Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-24535
I made it my mission to find the most stylish pieces for my home office and here’s how it went https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/stylish-home-office-furniture-13656/ Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:58:29 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/stylish-home-office-furniture-13656 Sterile and boring, begone.

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If you work at home either full-time or two to three times a week, having a designated workspace will make all the difference. For me, this has always been something I’ve put on the back burner. Being able to work at home a couple of times a week is a blessing; I must admit; however, it also meant oftentimes I found myself curled up in awkward positions on my couch, dining table, or even the floor.

Why has it taken me this long (three years, to be exact) to create my dream WFH set-up finally? The reason is simple. Every time I found myself browsing through ‘home office furniture’ online or in-store, I cringed and looked the other way. Why is home office furniture so…sterile? Do stylish, design-forward home office buys actually exist?

If you’re asking yourself the same questions, then you’re in luck. I made it my mission to look high and low for the best home office buys that are ergonomic (goodbye back pain), practical (did someone say storage solutions?), and, most importantly, stylish enough to blend seamlessly within your home or bedroom.

Whether you are lucky enough to have a dedicated home office room or you have a corner of your bedroom for a small WFH setup like me, this article is for you. After all, there’s no point in having a home office if it is a place of chaos, clutter, and lacklustre furniture and decor that you’d rather close the door on.

Before & After

The ‘before’ photo is not exactly a true representation of what my workspace looked like. If it were a true representation, you’d find me and my sporadic make-shift set up on the dining table. However, it is what I was working with at the very start of my journey of creating my home office/set-up.

Functional yet stylish was the goal.

If you’re eager to find out how I transformed my work-from-home desk, read on. Below is my step-by-step guide and the exact pieces that I used to create my dream home office set-up.

Where do I start?

Map out exactly how much real estate you’re working with. Buying ill-fitting pieces for any part of your home is a surefire way to make your space feel cluttered and uninviting. The golden renovating rule – measure twice, cut once – applies here.

I had just moved into my new apartment, which meant it was a great opportunity for me to start fresh. I had a small corner to place a work desk (and nothing more), so I needed something compact and, most importantly, not bulky.

Choosing a work desk

As the saying goes, you can’t build a great house on a weak foundation. In this sense, the foundation is choosing your work desk.

There are a few types of office desks you can opt for. A standard desk with drawers works well if you have the space for it. However, I wanted to dabble in the world of standing desks.

There are two main types of standing desks you can choose from – a manual sit/stand desk or an electric one. A manual sit/stand desk is, well, manual. Generally, it uses a turning knob mechanism on the side to adjust your desk up and down as you work on it throughout your workday. Choosing between a manual and an electric standing desk will be dependent on your preference and budget.

I decided to opt for a manual sit/stand desk – mainly because it’s more affordable. However, an electric standing desk would have been a great option if I had a bigger budget.

Our top picks for standing desks

01

Flexispot electric standing desk

$329.90, Amazon

Electric standing desks are generally on the pricier side; however, you can find pretty affordable options on Amazon. This one from Flexispot is 100cm wide and has a wooden-like table top, making it the perfect option for those who have a smaller space to work with.

However, you can also opt for a bigger size if you can fit it. It also comes in a variety of tabletop and leg combinations to suit your space. I love the various options you can choose with this standing desk; it makes it a solid foundation for creating your dream WFH desk.

Key features:

  • Electric operation
  • Various tabletop and leg combinations (sizes and colours)
  • 6-button control panel with 4 programmable memory settings

02

IKEA Trotten manual sit/stand desk

$299, IKEA

If you want an affordable sit/stand desk – finding the manual counterpart is your best bet. The IKEA Trotten sit/stand desk was my choice mainly because of its affordability and sleek and compact design. The manual knob mechanism is easy to operate – however, there is one thing to note: it is a bit of a workout to get your desk up and down. The process is definitely a lot slower and requires more effort when compared to an electric standing desk. But, if that is something you can look past, then the Trotten desk is still an excellent option.

Key features:

  • Manual operation
  • Sleek/simple no-frills design

Comfortable seating

Once you have your desk picked out, choosing an ergonomic chair is your next task. Admittedly, finding a stylish office chair proved to be the biggest challenge for me. I needed something that was comfortable with enough back support while not looking like it was straight out of a man cave. Therefore, after scouring the internet for something that fit the bill for what seemed like an eternity…below are my top picks. You’re welcome.

Our top picks for stylish and ergonomic office chairs

03

Qulomvs mesh ergonomic office chair in cream white

$759.05, Amazon

If there’s one piece of office furniture worth investing in, it’s your office chair. As you’ll be sitting on it for upwards of five to eight hours a day, finding one that is comfortable and provides effective back support is vital. This one from Amazon not only looks great, but it’s extremely comfortable to sit on, too. It can be adjusted from 90 to 135 degrees for your seating comfort, plus it’s super breathable when in use, too, thanks to its mesh back and headrest.

Our tip? When choosing your office chair, look for one with a high back. Office chairs with lower backs often look stylish but do not provide the same amount of support as one with a higher back.

Key features:

  • High mesh back and headrest
  • 360 wheels
  • Adjustable seat angle
  • Adjustable lumbar support

04

HATTEFJÄLL office chair

$329, IKEA

Sometimes, a high-back office chair may seem a bit overwhelming, especially in a smaller space. This IKEA office chair still has a higher back profile, but without the headrest, it leaves you with a more compact-looking chair for your desk.

This is the exact one I opted for, as I’m working with a relatively small space. Anything that is space-saving was high on my must-have list. So, if you feel as though a headrest isn’t essential when looking for an office chair, this beige number from IKEA is a great option.

Key features:

  • Synchronised tilt mechanism
  • Adjustable armrests
  • Comes in a variety of colours

05

Pago Nest home office ergonomic chair in pink

$339, Officeworks

Another affordable and ergonomic pick is this office chair from Pago. With a medium-height back, it is a stylish addition to your home office without overwhelming it. Plus, it’s in a pale pink hue-what’s not to love?

Key features:

  • Seat has waterfall-edge design to reduce pressure on your legs when in use
  • Adjustable armrests
  • AFRDI Blue Tick rated (tested to AS/NZS 4439 standards as sound, strong, durable, and ergonomic)
  • Posturesure Synchro mechanism, which moves the backrest and seat in a fixed ratio for optimal support

Displays

One of the main reasons I love working from an office (besides the intriguing water cooler chats, of course) is the fact that I have multiple monitor screens to work off. That’s why I knew I needed to invest in a monitor (or two) when creating my WFH set-up. If your work requires you to analyse spreadsheets, having two monitors or screens is a godsend. I decided to opt for one external monitor to begin with, with the hopes of expanding to two monitors in the future.

Our top picks for external monitors

06

LG 27MR400-B 27-inch IPS Full HD monitor

$189, Amazon

Having an external display is a game changer. However, there are many options out there, so it’s vital to ensure you pick one that suits your personal needs. If you’re looking to add one external display to your set-up, I suggest opting for one with a larger screen. This 27″ monitor from LG is my pick and sits comfortably on my 120cm wide desk. As my work consists of typing away at my desk for most hours of the weekday, it means the bigger the screen, the better it is for my eyes.

Key features:

  • Large 27″ display
  • Full HD IPS technology provides accurate colour reproduction and assists viewing from wide angles
  • 100Hz refresh rate
  • HDMI connectivity
  • 1920 x 1080 screen resolution

07

LG 32SR50F-W 32-inch IPS Full HD Smart monitor

$449, Amazon

If you love to have something playing in the background as you work – or you just love a multi-purpose product – opting for a Smart monitor is the way to go. With the compact nature of a desktop monitor coupled with the ability to stream directly via your favourite streaming apps, it’s a TV and a monitor in one. This model from LG comes in a sleek off-white hue and a generous 32″ screen for all your viewing needs.

Key features:

  • Large 32″ display
  • Full HD IPS technology provides accurate colour reproduction and assists viewing from wide angles.
  • WebOS 23 allows you to explore content on built-in streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, and Apple TV
  • ThinQ app compatible – use your phone like a remote
  • AirPlay 2 to easily share content from smart devices to monitor

Keyboard, mouse & other tech accessories

Even though you can technically work off your laptop’s keyboard and trackpad, having an external keyboard and mouse will make your life a whole lot easier. Although I am far from being a keyboard enthusiast, a wireless mechanical keyboard has always been on my wishlist. If you know a thing or two about mechanical keyboards, then you’ll know there are an array of different makes and models to choose from. And, if you’re really into finding the perfect keyboard for your space, you can also build your own from scratch.

Building a mechanical keyboard from scratch was not something I wanted to do this time (though it is an art form in itself that should be appreciated); I was after a mechanical keyboard that I could plug and play straight from the box. Amazon is a great place to browse for this – and that’s exactly what I did.

Some key specs to consider when buying your very first mechanical keyboard:

  1. Size: Understand how many keys you’ll need. Do you need the number pad? Or could you save desk space and opt for a ten-keyless (TKL) keyboard?
  2. Switches: Switches determine the feedback/feel of your keys as you type. Do you like a lot of ‘clicky’ feedback when you type? Or do you prefer something smooth and buttery? It’s also important to know what type of switches your mechanical keyboard has, especially if you’re sharing your space with someone else, as some switches can be quite loud when in use. In general, if you like clicky keys, opt for a blue switch; if you like smooth and buttery, opt for a red switch. Brown switches are somewhere in between the two.
  3. Connectivity: Depending on your operating system, you’ll want either a Type C or USB-A cable for your keyboard. Bluetooth or wireless 2.4GHz connectivity is a bonus. Note: Make sure your keyboard is set up to work for your operating system (e.g., macOS or Windows); however, most keyboards can switch between the two.

Our top picks for mechanical keyboards

08

Epomaker EP84 Pro mechanical keyboard in Botanic Garden

$169.99, Amazon

If you’re an indoor plant lover, then this keyboard from Epomaker is perfect for you. After browsing mechanical keyboards high and low, I finally settled on the EP84 Pro from Epomaker. It’s a plug-and-play option with the brand’s ‘Flamingo’ switches (similar to standard brown switches), and the botanic-inspired keys and colourway were too cute to give up. Plus, it comes with Hot-swappable switches, which means, later down the line if I were to want to opt for different switches, I could modify this keyboard easily.

Key features:

  • TKL mechanical keyboard
  • Bluetooth, wireless and wired connection
  • Hot-swappable switches
  • Programmable RGB lighting effects

09

RK Royal Kludge R75 mechanical keyboard

$128.98, Amazon

Keeping within the green theme, this mechanical keyboard from RK Royal Kludge is another great fuss-free plug-and-play option. Featuring a 75 per cent keyboard (TKL) layout, durable luxurious-feeling keycaps, and Hot-swappable keys for customisation (should you need).

Key features:

  • TKL mechanical keyboard
  • Bluetooth, wireless and wired connection
  • Hot-swappable switches
  • Programmable RGB lighting effects

Our top picks for tech accessories

10

Logitech G305 Lightspeed wireless gaming mouse in black

$69 (usually $99.95), Amazon

After you’ve chosen your keyboard, choosing a wireless or Bluetooth mouse will complete your setup quite nicely. Find one that fits your palm and is comfortable to use over a long period of time. Choosing my mouse was one of the first things I did – even before I decided to go all out and create my dream WFH station. I always avoid using a trackpad to work if I can, so a wireless mouse like this one from Logitech has been with me for a couple of years now – and it still works and looks great! The Logitech G305 is lightweight and durable and features ultra-fast Lightspeed wireless technology that gives you lag-free feedback (making it a great option for gamers, too).

Key features:

  • Wireless connection
  • Lightspeed lag-free technology
  • Also available in white, blue, lilac or mint colourways

11

5-in-1 USB C hub

$15.49 (usually $35.76), Amazon

Not a very exciting addition to this round up, but an important one nonetheless is this 5-in-1 USB C hub. For a lot of external monitors to work with your laptop, you’ll need an adapter to hook it up. This hub not only connects my monitor (via its HDMI port), but I also connect my mouse and my keyboard to it. It’s safe to say, my setup wouldn’t be functional without it. There are a lot of different hubs with various configurations. Find one that has all the ports you need, and you’ll be good to go.

Key features:

  • Slimline, space-saving design
  • 5-in-1 design
  • Ideal for external monitors with an HDMI connection

12

Amazon Echo Pop in Glacier

$49 (usually $79), Amazon

If you know me, then you’ll know I’ve recently dabbled in the world of smart tech for the home – and this all happened when I was first introduced to the Amazon Echo Pop (you can read my full review, here). The Amazon Echo Pop sits nicely in the corner of my work desk, and I use it mainly to listen to music or podcasts as I work. It’s also equipped with Amazon’s voice assistant – Alexa – which means I also use it to set reminders throughout the workday.

Key features:

  • Smart speaker
  • Control with your voice using Alexa
  • Also available in Lavender Bloom, Midnight Teal, and Charcoal

Functional desk accessories

Now that the basics are sorted, the next step is to ensure your desk reflects your personality. Adding an easy-to-care-for indoor plant, for example, makes all the difference. A monitor riser also helps keep your monitor at eye level while acting as a great way to organise and store your desk accessories too. Below are some functional desk accessories that turned my WFH desk into a functional yet stylish one.

13

Homerays bamboo monitor stand/riser

$83.59 (usually $92.69), Amazon

A monitor riser elevates your external screen to a comfortable eye level, and I knew I needed to add one to my setup – stat. This bamboo one from Amazon is my pick and features three storage compartments, including a concealed drawer that is perfect for storing (and hiding away) extra cables. I also like to slot my keyboard underneath the riser to keep my desk looking clean when I’m not using it.

Key features:

  • Bamboo construction
  • 3 storage compartments, including a concealed drawer

14

Nordik vegan leather desk mat with cable organiser

$32.97, Amazon

I decided to opt for a large desk mat instead of a mouse mat as it gave my desk a cleaner look. Desk mats come in an array of colours and finishes. However, I wanted to add a bit of warmth to my desk (without it being too overpowering), so a desk mat with a neutral beige hue is perfect.

Key features:

  • Dual-sided design (cork and PU leather)
  • Available in an array of different colour combinations
  • Waterproof and spillproof
  • Cable organiser

15

Under desk drawer in black (2 pack)

$25.79, Amazon

When working with a smaller space, looking for products that are stylish, practical, and space-saving is a must. When I stumbled across these under-desk drawers, I was intrigued. Simply stick them to the bottom of your desk using the self-adhesive tape that they come with, and you have instantly added functional drawers to your standing desk. Plus, the fluted-glass-like design is a unique touch.

Key features:

  • Comes in a set of 2
  • 17 cm x 21 cm x 6 cm to easily fit your workspace needs, such as notebooks and pens
  • Crafted from lightweight and durable lead-free ABS plastic
  • Also available in a clear colourway

16

Orionstar laptop stand in green

$23.99 (usually $29.99), Amazon

Keeping your tech elevated not only creates extra desk space but also acts as an organiser, as it means your laptop always has a designated spot on your desk. I opted for this fun green-hued riser to match my keyboard (I do love the colour green). However, this laptop stand comes in an array of different colours to suit your taste.

Key features:

  • Available in 9 different colours
  • Compatible with laptops between 10 to 15.6 inches
  • Crafted with aluminium alloy to help keep your laptop cool when in use

17

Keyboard memory foam cloud wristrest

$20.78, Amazon

If you’ve chosen a mechanical keyboard for your set-up, you’ll find that they tend to be a bit higher than your normal keyboards. A wrist rest is a great way to alleviate pressure from your wrists and arms as you work/type. It’s been a game-changer for comfort levels, and I’d argue it is a must for any work desk.

Key features:

  • Non-slip silicone base
  • High-density memory foam
  • Set of 2 for keyboard and mouse

Cable management

Ah, cables. The dreaded eye-sore that comes with setting up tech. Sorting out your cables will take a bit of blood, sweat, and tears. But I’m here to tell you that it will all be worth it. And I even have a before and after pic to vouch for this. The extra carpet space you get from lifting your cables off the floor is unmatched. Say goodbye to that tangled mess, stat.

18

Under desk cable management tray in white (2 pack)

$31.43 (usually $36.99), Amazon

Not as lush as the other additions in this roundup, but one thing to keep your work-from-home station clutter-free is to have practical storage solutions. Cables are undoubtedly an eyesore – whether that’s in your home office or otherwise – that’s why this drill-free cable management tray is highly recommended. Especially if you’ve opted for a standing desk like me, having your cables under your desk (and off the floor) means they’re, well, out of sight, out of mind – just how we like it.

Key features:

  • Comes in a set of 2
  • No drill installation
  • Available also in black

Related content:

The post I made it my mission to find the most stylish pieces for my home office and here’s how it went appeared first on Homes To Love.

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standing-desk-amazon ikea-trotten beige-office-chair ikea-office-chair officeworks-office-chair LG-27-inch-monitor LG-Smart-monitor epomaker-ep84-mechanical-keyboard rk-royal-kludge-r75-mechanical-keyboard LG-G03-mouse USBC-hub amazon-echo-pop bamboo-monitor-riser nordik-desk-mat underdesk-storage laptop-stand wrist-rest cable-management-tray The ultimate buyer’s guide to standing desks, the home-office must-have Brand logo of Homes to Love 10 best office chairs that will elevate your WFH setup Brand logo of Homes to Love desk-space-wallpaper-black-and-white Brand logo of Inside Out 20 inspiring home office ideas Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-13656
Say goodbye to damp bathroom floors with these innovative and eco-friendly stone bath mats https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/stone-bath-mats/ Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:37:24 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=256728 It's set in stone: it's time to make the swap.

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For most bathrooms, a bath mat is essential. Bath mats keep the space dry (or as dry as possible) after a shower, bath, or even after washing your face over the sink. However, finding a bath mat that is easy to maintain while also lasting the test of time is a lot harder than it sounds. That’s where stone bath mats come in.

Traditional bath mats, such as ones made from cotton, are great. Cotton is known for its moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic qualities. However, fabric bath mats tend to stay damp for a long time after you shower, which may cause them to develop mould or start smelling a bit funky (yuck). That’s why we were intrigued when we stumbled across the viral stone bath mat—which many reviewers claim to be the ultimate ‘Buy It For Life’ item for the home.

What are stone bath mats?

You may be confused or concerned if you haven’t seen stone bath mats before. But don’t worry—stone bath mats are anything but scary. A stone bath mat or a diatomite bath mat is made from diatomaceous stone. Diatomaceous stone is a naturally occurring, highly absorbent material, making it great for bath mats.

Diatomite stone bath mats are praised for their quick-drying nature (you can see them dry right in front of your eyes; see video above), their ability to keep your bathroom dry, and their ability to prevent mould or mildew growth.

Do stone bath mats work?

Diatomite stone bath mats work incredibly well to keep your bathroom dry after a shower or bath. Thanks to the porous nature of diatomite stone, it absorbs water quickly and effectively.

One thing to note is that these bath mats are made from, well, stone. So, if you’re used to fluffy bath mats, getting used to stone bath mats may take a while. It’s a completely different experience and feel – but fear not, it’s not freezing cold (like accidentally stepping onto floor tiles on a winter evening), as these stone bath mats stay closer to room temperature.

The best stone bath mats available in Australia 2024

01

Natureva Home stone bath mat in Flow Chalk

$70, Amazon

Crafted with a combination of diatomaceous earth and recycled paper, this stone bath mat is an eco-friendly addition to your bathroom. It is naturally antibacterial, and its impressive absorption power means the build-up of moisture and mildew post-shower is a non-issue.

Size: 60 x 39 x 0.9 cm

Colours: Flow Chalk, Flow Graphite, Rain Chalk, Rain Graphite, Rain Slate

Materials: diatomaceous earth, recycled paper

Key features:

  • Made from diatomaceous earth and recycled paper
  • Naturally antibacterial
  • Non-slip surface
  • Holds 150% of its weight in water

02

Dawntrees stone bath mat

$50, Amazon

Watch water evaporate almost instantly with the Dawntrees stone bath mat. This bath mat is made from diatomite stone and will keep your bathroom floor clean and dry easily. The great thing about diatomite stone bath mats is how easy they are to clean and maintain. Simply use a soft bristle brush and some warm water and rinse when needed.

Materials: diatomite

Colours: Grey Vertical Stripes, Dark Grey, Grayish White, Green

Key features:

  • Made from diatomite stone
  • Porous surface
  • Absorbs water quickly

03

Marbrasse bath mat in grey

$39.98, Amazon

The Marbrasse bath mat soaks up water immediately and will dry in a few minutes. Plus, maintenance is a breeze. Just wash with running water or wipe with a wet cloth and air dry to refresh this stone bath mat whenever needed.

Materials: diatomite

Colours: Grey, Pink, White, Blue

Key features:

  • Made from diatomite stone
  • Porous surface
  • Absorbs water quickly
  • Easy maintenance

04

Paxilnie super absorbent portable roll-up stone bath mat

$41.99, Amazon

Watermarks vanish within seconds thanks to the millions of micropores that instantly dry the surface of this stone bath mat. It also features an anti-skid rubber base and an anti-slip pad. This stone bath mat is a thoughtful addition to any bathroom. Plus, its unique slat design means you can roll it up to store away should you need to.

Materials: diatomite

Colours: Green, Pink, Grey, Light Grey, White

Key features:

  • Made from diatomite stone
  • Porous surface
  • Absorbs water quickly
  • Easy maintenance
  • Unique roll-up design for easy storage

05

Stone bath mat in white

$68.64, Amazon

Sustainable, super absorbent, and non-slip—what more could you ask for? Thanks to its sleek, low-profile design, this stone bath mat will turn your bathroom into a relaxation sanctuary in an instant.

Materials: diatomite

Colours: White, Grey Feather, Grey, White Feather

Key features:

  • Made from diatomite stone
  • Porous surface
  • Absorbs water quickly
  • Easy maintenance

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amazon-stone-bathmat stone-bath-mat stone-bath-mat-1 stone-bath-mat-1-1 stone-bath-mat (2) 10 on-trend bath mats to elevate your bathroom Brand logo of Homes to Love Stay cosy and clean this winter with these bathroom heaters Brand logo of Homes to Love Elevate your bathroom experience with these hotel-worthy bath towels Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-256728
Inside Byron Bay’s Sun Ranch hotel, where design and curation were not taken lightly https://www.homestolove.com.au/lifestyle/travel/sun-ranch-byron-bay-sale/ Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:16:26 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=246947 Saddle up!

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Drive through the hinterlands of Byron Bay and between a part in the hills and the endless blue skies you will find Sun Ranch. It’s the kind of place that welcomes a Stetson, conjures the smell of leather boots, whose sunny disposition reaches back into the 70s to Cali-style ranches with Spanish flair, where dreams are lived in real time.

The origins of 55-acre, 17-room Sun Ranch lie with a group of seven couples, helmed by Jamie Blakey and Julia Ashwood. All long-term friends and from various creative backgrounds, it was a project destined for success. “We ultimately created a holiday destination where we would all love to spend time immersed in nature,” explains Julia.

sun-ranch-designers
“We have known each other for 25 years, so we certainly know one another by now. Each day, as hard as it was, was finished with a cold drink and a good chuckle.” (Photography: Anson Smart)

Mingling with the hotel’s flower child persuasion is a vibe firmly rooted in travel and spaghetti western tropes, where a wooden beaded chandelier (Julia’s favourite piece) hangs above carved timber art and a sunken lounge upholstered in tiger-print velvet. “Ultimately, we fell in love with every fitting, paint colour, fixture, and art piece on the Ranch,” says Julia.

“Design and curation was not something we took lightly. Everything had to have an emphasis on fun and the unexpected. Pushing boundaries keeps people guessing and keeps us inspired to do more.”

JULIA ASHWOOD, CO-FOUNDER AND DESIGNER
swimming-pool
“We both travel a lot so we had a good idea on the concept and visually it came together quickly.” Julia and Jamie also implemented the Sun Ranch Regeneration Program, planting 10,000 native plants and trees to revive the flora within the area. (Photography: Anson Smart)

Since Sun Ranch — which sleeps 34 over a range of rooms, barns and suites — first opened its doors in September 2023 (after a “rollercoaster” 2.5-year build, tells Julia), it made quite the splash among guests and the design community alike with its opportunities for “the right company or individual to take it next level and add new locations both here and around the world. Think Hunter Valley, Margaret River, Big Sur, Ojai.  Even a pop-up ‘Sun Ranch Summer Camp’ in Lake Wanaka!”

Julia says that they are open to a range of ways to move forward with the sale of the property, from partnerships to investors. “The Ranch has been getting a lot of interest, not just from within Australia but globally too.” Whatever lies in Sun Ranch’s future, we expect it’s about to take off at a gallop.

The property, at 17 Byron Creek Road, Coopers Shoot, was listed for sale with Pacifico Property but did not end up selling. You can check out the hotel’s current website here.

Inside Sun Ranch, Byron Bay

sun-ranch-exterior
Photography: Anson Smart

The rolling hills of Sun Ranch

How does one spend time at Sun Ranch? “As the sun moves across the land you almost want to follow along,” says Julia. “Wake up slow in a pool suite or a barn, wander in for yoga and a complimentary market-fresh ranch breakfast.”

green-pink-kitchen
Photography: Anson Smart

Indulge in the warm and moody interiors

The lobby, also referred to as ‘The Lair’, features a “delicious, spiral terracotta-paved sunken lounge”.

fireplace-built-in-sofa
Photography: Anson Smart

Filled with treasures from around the world

“Each space is filled with incredible one-off pieces Jamie and I sourced across the years,” says Julia. “Most of these were found throughout the US and Mexico. We took a fantastic trip and ended up coming home with a shipping container full of treasures from carved timber art, tapestries, and loads of personality chairs!”

maroon-bedroom
Photography: Anson Smart

Leave your worries at the door

“We love watching people arrive, it’s like the weight is lifted from their shoulders and they leave all baggage at the door.”

red-and-blue-bathroom
Photography: Anson Smart

Sun Ranch’s design inspiration

Equal parts easy swagger and sophistication, Julia and Jamie’s collective design style fuses effortlessly with the Ranch’s location in an exclusive pocket of Byron Bay.

red-bar
Photography: Anson Smart

Sun Ranch maintains a fully stocked bar

Sage burns in the Cowboy Bar, whose name is announced by a handpainted sign, where guests are invited to indulge in cocktails poured over ice.

timber-panelling
Photography: Anson Smart

Immerse yourself in sumptuous tones

Earthy, jewel-toned hues make for a unique palette that is splashed through every space.

pink-red-bathroom
Photography: Anson Smart

Plenty of rooms to discover

The estate encompasses three accommodation options: The Rambler Rooms, The Sun Ranch Barns, and a Private Suite. Guests are encouraged to explore the property in its entirety via e-bike or horse.

pink-red-living-area
Photography: Anson Smart

Featuring the work of local artists

Sun Ranch’s design is at once nostalgic and contemporary, where local artists’ work stars alongside carefully collected vintage pieces.

private-pool-area
Photography: Anson Smart

Go off-grid at Sun Ranch

The six barns are completely off-grid, while the guest house relies on a hybrid of solar, battery, and minimal grid power. The entire estate also runs solely on rainwater.

swimming-pool-with-loungers
Photography: Anson Smart

The grounds of Sun Ranch

The outdoor spaces span an ice bath, wood-fired cedar sauna, orchard, and 25m pool surrounded by thatched umbrellas and lounge chairs. “Margaritas and fresh prawn rolls are delivered to your towel on request and the tunes flow well into the sunset.”

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10 most stylish dog beds for all breeds https://www.homestolove.com.au/lifestyle/best-dog-beds-australia-21393/ Wed, 05 Jun 2024 03:49:18 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-dog-beds-australia-21393 Cosy, comfortable and chic beds for dogs of all sizes.

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Every dog deserves a warm and comfortable place to curl up in at night and no, we’re not talking about your bed! Here we share our top picks for the best dog beds in Australia that will ensure your pet sleeps in both comfort and style.

Choosing the right mattress can be incredibly important to ensure you get a good night’s sleep, so its no surprise that having a suitable and comfortable bed available for your dog will have a similar effect.

Luckily, there’s a range of different options from fabric, style, and size available on the market that your pooch is bound to be spoilt for choice.

When choosing the right pet bed, opt for one that’s comfortable, supportive, and features a durable design, and is a suitable size whether your dog is big or small. And to make sure your pet bed goes the distance, keep an eye out for designs with removable covers that you can machine wash so you can keep it in tip-top shape for years to come.

Terrier dog on the bed

Ted on the bed in the main bedroom.

(Photo: Marnie Hawson | Story: Country Style)

“Your pet may spend more time lying down during the winter months, because just like us, the cold weather tends to slow them down to conserve energy and keep warm,” says PETstock VET, Dr Sasha Nefedov. “Invest in a thicker, warmer bed in winter to make sure your pet has somewhere comfortable to lie down throughout the day and night,” she adds.

Not only will a cosy bed keep your dog warm in winter, it’s wise to create ‘safe space’ for your dog to retreat to when their feeling tired or anxious. “It’s important your pet has 24-hour access to a comfortable bed to call their own, so they know where their safe space is,” says Dr Nefedov.

On that note, we’ve rounded up some of the cosiest and stylish dog beds on the market right now.

2024’s top stylish dog beds Australia

  1. Premium Teddy Bed, $230, SASH (here’s why)
  2. Faux Fur Pet Bed $159, Hommey (here’s why)
  3. Barney Bed, $225, Store name (here’s why)

The best dog beds Australia

Dog-beds-australia-SASH-Premium-Teddy-Bed

01

Premium Teddy dog bed

from $230 at SASH

Best for: anxious pups

SASH offers a range of pet beds that not only feel premium but complement the Australian home. Their stylish ranges of premium and calming pet beds provide comfort to your pets that look great in the home. Your pup will love the Premium Teddy Bed’s high quality construction, designed to help them self-soothe, so much so that you’ll struggle to get them out of it.

Sizes: Small/Medium, Large. Extra Large.

Colour: Caramel Brown.

Materials: Teddy material.

Key features:

  • Removable machine washable cover
  • Generous internal padding
  • Durable construction with double-layered padding
  • Light and breathable
dog-beds-australia-faux-fur-hommey-olive

02

Faux Fur Olive dog bed

from $159 at Hommey

Best for: stylish pups

100% pet approved, with the same comfort and style you expect from Hommey collections, the Pet Bed is designed with functionality in mind. This pet bed from Hommey features removable components that are machine washable to ensure your pets have a comfortable space to call their own. Available in an array of colours – our pick being this adorable olive hue.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large.

Colours: Warm Grey, Cherry, Charcoal, Marshmallow, Olive, Tan, Rose, Coffee.

Materials: Cotton, Memory Foam & Polyester Fibre fill.

Key features:

  • Removable machine washable cover
  • Sleek and comfy shape
  • Boucle range available in 8 colours and Faux Fur range available in 7 colours

03

Barney Bed with Golden Teddy covers

from $255 at Barney Bed

Best for: bougie pups

Treat your pups to the bed that’s famous in the pet world; Barney Beds were born from a desire to support the joints and muscles of older dog and has since become synonymous with style and quality. With features to protect your pup’s joints, like its memory foam base and comfortable places to rest their chin, your dog will love retiring to their Barney Bed at the end of each day.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large.

Colours: A large range of colours and materials available.

Materials: Memory Foam fill, microfibre lining.

Key features:

  • Removable, machine washable covers
  • Memory foam base and elevated chin rest
  • Strong and soft bonded microfibre
  • Moisture resistant cover and lining
  • Stylish covers
SNOOZA Cuddler Wheat Dog Bed australia

04

SNOOZA Cuddler Wheat dog Bed

from $139.90 at Petstock

Best for: nervous pups

The soothing & calming Snooza Cuddler, with its soft long pile vegan faux fur and a deep sleeping area, makes for the ultimate place to soothe and calm anxious pups. With added benefits like being fully machine washable and replaceable covers, this is the most stress free bed for pup and owner.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large, Giant.

Colours: Chinchilla, Bliss, Charcoal, Mink, Silver Fox, Silver, Teddy Oak.

Materials: Polyester Covers, EcoFresh™ (recycled PET fibre and foam)

Key features:

  • Perfect for nesters, anxious and cuddly pets
  • Fully machine washable
  • Refillable contents
dog-beds-australia_personalised-dog-bed

05

Personalised dog bed by PromiDesign

from $449 at Hardtofind

Best for: name-proud pups

Spoil your pooch with a truly personalised bed from PromiDesign. The personalised pet bed features a contemporary design with a removable cover for easy maintenance. And the best bit? You can proudly emblazon your pet’s name on it too.

Sizes: 970x670x150mm.

Colours: Wood and Navy.

Materials: Solid Ashwood construction, soft fabric.

Key features:

  • Customisable with your pup’s name
  • Removable machine washable covers
  • Allows for ventilation
dog-beds-australia_grey-dog-bed1

06

All Day Cosy Cottage dog bed

from $229 at Pet Barn

Best for: pups who love plush

For bigger dogs who love a stretch, The All Day Cosy Cottage dog bed is designed to provide the ultimate in comfort. With a supportive polyfill stuffing and a faux fur covering, and also a non-slip base that’s ideal for pups that move a lot in the night, your pup will feel comfortable enough to doze off.

Sizes: Large, Extra Large.

Colours: Latte.

Materials: Plush, Polyester.

Key features:

  • Nester silhouette
  • Large bed is fully machine washable,
  • Extra Large bed has removable machine covers
  • Polyfill stuffing
dog-beds-australia-black-dog-cot-bed

07

Elevated Bed dog bed

from $39.99 at Pet Circle

Best for: pups who run hot

For pets who tend to overheat, a suspended pet cot can provide a comfy bed with maximum ventilation, keeping your pooch cooler throughout the warmer months.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large.

Colour: Black.

Materials: Canvas sheet.

Key features:

  • Simple assembly and low-maintenance design
  • Machine washable cover
  • Removable, tight-weave fabric
  • Skid resistant feet
pet-beds-australia-Teddy Fleece Orthopedic Memory Foam Sofa Dog Bed in Cream

08

Teddy Fleece Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed

from $89 at Myer

Best for: pups who need extra support

As one of the biggest trends to dominate our homes over the past couple of years, it’s no surprise that the boucle trend has extended into designer homewares for our pets. This dog bed features a timeless and stylish design that you’ll be proud to keep front and centre in the home.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large.

Colours: Cream, Pink, Charcoal.

Materials: Memory foam, Recycled Polyester.

Key features:

  • Vegan Teddy fleece
  • 40D egg-style memory foam
  • Head and neck support
  • Removable plush cover
pet-beds-australia-Chinchilla Snuggler Pet Bed (3)

09

Charlies Corduroy Dog Bed

from $69 at Myer

Best for: sofa loving pups

If your dog loves the sofa, this stylish pet bed could be the answer. Modelled after traditional sofas, this sofa pet bed features an attractive corduroy cover, while the raised corner is the ideal place for your dog to rest their head.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large.

Colours: Navy, Green, Charcoal.

Materials: Corduroy, PP Fibre Filler.

Key features:

  • Lightweight and durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Can be styled with existing home decor

10

Mog & Bone Hamptons Stripe round dog bed

from $69.95 at Temple & Webster

Best for: pups battling the changing seasons

Mog & Bone are renowned for their stylish dog beds that are effortlessly on trend. It’s fully reversible, which means the bed can be used in both cooler and warmer weather, as one side features a plush fleece interior for winter evenings, while the other is made with a breathable cotton canvas for warmer summer days.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large.

Colours: Charcoal, Latte, Navy.

Materials: Printed cotton and fleece.

Key features:

  • Stylish, reversible designs
  • Removable machine washable covers
  • Plush interiors


The post 10 most stylish dog beds for all breeds appeared first on Homes To Love.

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Terrier dog on the bed <p>Ted on the bed in the main bedroom.</p> Dog-beds-australia-SASH-Premium-Teddy-Bed dog-beds-australia-faux-fur-hommey-olive dog-beds-australia_barney-bed-golden SNOOZA Cuddler Wheat Dog Bed dog-beds-australia_personalised-dog-bed dog-beds-australia_grey-dog-bed1 dog-beds-australia-black-dog-cot-bed pet-beds-australia-Teddy Fleece Orthopedic Memory Foam Sofa Dog Bed in Cream pet-beds-australia-Chinchilla Snuggler Pet Bed (3) dog-beds-australia_grey-striped-dog-bed homestolove-21393
10 luxurious linen quilt covers to refresh your bedroom https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/linen-quilt-covers-australia-23401/ Wed, 05 Jun 2024 02:50:15 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/linen-quilt-covers-australia-23401 Layer your bed with linen for a luxurious night's sleep.

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Soft, breathable and so luxurious, once you’ve slept in linen, you’ll never look back. Sure, linen bedding comes at a cost, but quality linen – that is 100 per cent Belgian, French or European flax linen – will last you for years to come as it becomes softer and surprisingly stronger with every wash.

Linen is loved not only for its effortlessly luxurious aesthetic but for its trans-seasonal qualities that carry you through summer, autumn, winter and spring. Linen, being a natural material, lets your skin breathe, which helps to regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter. It’s also highly absorbent, lint-free and non-allergenic which is why it feels so good to sleep in.

Your bed is often the focal point of the bedroom and a quilt cover offers an opportunity to make a style statement. Keep it calm and sophisticated with neutral or monochrome tones, or inject personality and playfulness with colour and pattern. The best thing about quilt covers is the fact that they allow you to change up your style on a whim – colourful bedroom one week, neutral the next!

So, if you’ve splurged on some linen sheets and you’re looking to buy a beautiful linen quilt cover to match, or you’re simply looking for an easy way to refresh your bedroom, we’ve found a range of different designs to suit every style and budget.

The best linen quilt covers to shop 2024

01

Piped linen duvet cover in White and Navy (queen)

$440, CULTIVER

Made from 100 per cent European flax linen and pre-washed for a soft vintage feel, CULTIVER’s sheet sets are perfect from day one. The piped detail adds definition and gives the range a sense of sophistication. Available in three timeless and versatile colourways – Smoke Grey and Slate, White and Navy and Natural Forest – a Piped Linen duvet cover or sheet set will elevate your bedroom instantly.

02

Abbotson Linen Ticking Stripe quilt cover in Carbon (queen)

$569.99, Sheridan

This gorgeous striped set from Abbotson is crafted from 100 per cent Belgian flax linen and creates a floaty yet refined look with its tailored edge and classic striped print. This soft linen set is available in a range of other colourways, including Ochre, Smokey Violet and White.

eve-linen-yellow-quilt-cover-set

03

Eve Linen Butter quilt cover (queen)

$250, Sheet Society

Soft like butter, this 100 per cent French flax linen quilt cover from Eve Linen promises to bring plenty of sunshine to your bedding with its warm golden-yellow hue.

Australian House & Garden Sandy Cape washed Belgian linen quilt cover set in Earth (queen)

04

Australian House & Garden Sandy Cape washed Belgian linen quilt cover set in Earth (queen)

$269.95, Myer

Earthy tones and textures are becoming increasingly popular in Australian homes, adding warmth and giving interiors an authentic, natural aesthetic. This range comes in an array of colours to suit your style and looks great layered together or separately.

In Bed 100% linen duvet set in Stone (queen)

05

IN BED 100% linen duvet set in Stone (queen)

$420, The Iconic

Continuing with the earthy tones, this muted sage set from IN BED is the perfect grounding accent to a white base sheet. Made in Portugal from pure European Flax, the linen is soft to the touch and designed to last.

100% French Flax linen duvet cover in Wildflower (queen)

06

100% French flax linen duvet cover in Wildflower (queen)

$250, Bed Threads

Bring the tones of the Riviera to your bedroom with this summery bedspread from Bed Threads. Made from 100 per cent French flax linen, these sheets are super breathable and soft.

07

Vintage washed linen quilt cover (queen)

$319.99, Adairs

If you’re after a timeless, lived-in look, this vintage washed linen set from Adairs is the one. To create a soft hand feel, the linen has undergone a special wash treatment.

08

Nimes Rosette linen quilt cover set (queen)

$359.99, Linen House

This soft blush-hued set from Linen House is sure to add a dose of romanticism to your space. Pre-shrunk and pre-washed, the Nimes set is super soft and has a vintage look and drape for a relaxed look.

09

French flax linen quilt cover in Ivy Gingham

$262.50, I love linen

Add a touch of country charm with this green gingham quilt cover from I love linen. The sheets are woven from European flax and stonewashed for softness.

Muse Washed Linen White quilt cover (queen)

10

Muse Washed Linen White quilt cover (queen)

$259.95, Pillow Talk

We’d be remiss not to include a classic crisp white set in this round-up. This quality quilt cover from Muse is made from Belgian flax linen and promises to get softer wash after wash.

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Linen-Duvet-Set-White-Navy-Cultiver abbotson-linen-ticking-stripe-quilt-cover-grey eve-linen-yellow-quilt-cover-set ahg-sandy-cape-washed-belgian-linen in-bed-linen-duvet-cover bed-thread-wildflower-linen-bedding adairs-vintage-washed-linen-set nimes-blush-linen-quilt-cover ilovelinen-Quilt_Cover_Ivy_Gingham muse-linen-white-quilt-cover paddington-woodwall-timber-bedroom-bed-linen Brand logo of Homes to Love Our top luxurious bed linen picks that will take your beauty sleep to the next level Brand logo of Homes to Love best bed sheets Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-23401
Brad and Mel’s “Edwardian old girl” in Northcote is now their Dream Home https://www.homestolove.com.au/home-tours/dream-home-brad-mel-northcote-home/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:27:08 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=256652 See how the other contestants have transformed Brad and Mel's Melbourne home.

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As a reality renovation show, Dream Home was destined to enter an already-saturated market. But, true to form, we have proved that there’s always room for one more in our hearts. For those who haven’t been following along at home, the show’s premise goes something like this: six teams of ‘everyday Aussies’ have set out to tackle the overhaul of each other’s dilapidated properties to create their respective — you guessed it — dream homes.

One of the first couples to have their home undergo the (sledge)hammer were total rookie renovators, Brad and Mel, who in turn worked on their fellow Victorians, Taeler and Elle’s, Watsonia home. And while the competition’s first week saw them sit at the bottom of the leaderboard, it wasn’t all bad — we’re sure they’ll find their sea legs eventually.

The property they’ve thrown up for other contestants to tackle is their untouched, three-bedroom, “1920s Edwardian old girl” in Northcote, which has housed their family of six…somehow. In terms of a brief, Brad and Mel’s was loose and open to interpretation. Humble as ever, they simply say they want their home to be a place of love and somewhere their children can thrive and are proud to be their friends — with lots of storage!

Who are Dream Home’s Brad and Mel?

Married for over 20 years, musician Brad and shopping centre delivery manager Mel have four children aged between 12 and 18. It’s no small feat that has left them with little time to renovate their home and a track record of loan rejections along the way. Although the pair have a learn-along-the-way approach, they do foresee themselves butting heads as they reconcile Mel’s strict and structured approach vs Brad’s eclectic style.

Tour Brad and Mel’s Northcote home

Living area

Hannah and Jonny’s interpretation of Mel and Brad’s ‘light and bright’ desires amounted to this breezy living room, which features a tiled fireplace, built-in cabinetry and a huge L-shaped sofa that can accommodate their whole family. Judge Simon Cohen felt the fireplace was a great value-add, and we agree.

Kitchen

A simple but effective layout sees this kitchen design by Jacinta and Jordan shine. A generous island bench (uninterrupted by a sink!) leaves room for casual family meals, and opting for a window instead of a splashback creates more opportunities for light to enter. The space’s only downfall, according to judges, was the two-tone joinery.

Dubbed ‘boring’ and compared to a boardroom, Jacinta and Jordan’s dining room fell flat with the judges, who recommended the addition of a half-wall to separate the space and a cosy rug underfoot.

After a nerve-wracking and painstaking relocation of one of the home’s original ceiling roses, Taeler and Elle felt they were set up for success with 16-year-old Spencer’s bedroom, which also features a half-height textured nib wall (great for storage!) and warm-toned bedding. Although we think the room’s chic design leaves it open for adaptation, judge Lana Taylor questioned if it had the appropriate ‘edge’.

Spencer’s ensuite

The decision to hide Spencer’s ensuite bathroom behind a wardrobe door was a divisive one. However, the space is undoubtedly redeemed by lots of storage, a neutral colour palette, and double sinks. It’s worth noting that to create this large space, Taeler and Elle sacrificed future potential for a second bathroom.

Bennett’s bedroom

18-year-old Bennett’s bedroom was the second tackled by Hannah and Jonny in week 1, and it was dubbed ‘epic’. The arched built-in desk is sleek and minimal, perfect for a teen transitioning to adulthood.

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Dream Home S1 VIC Afters Northcote 011123-153 Dream Home S1 VIC Afters Northcote 011123-258 Dream Home S1 VIC Afters Northcote 011123-013 Dream Home S1 VIC Afters Northcote _13 Dream Home S1 VIC Afters Northcote 011123-100 Dream Home S1 VIC Afters Northcote _01 dream-home-judges-hero Brand logo of Homes to Love Taelar-Elle-Watsonia-home Brand logo of Homes to Love Lana-Taylor-talent-kitchen Brand logo of Real Living homestolove-256652
Taeler and Elle’s 1960s home in Watsonia gets the Dream Home treatment https://www.homestolove.com.au/home-tours/dream-home-taeler-elle-watsonia-home/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:18:33 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=256611 See how the other contestants have transformed Taeler and Elle's Melbourne home.

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If you haven’t been keeping up to date on Channel 7’s Dream Home, all you need to know is there’s already been plenty of drama, divisive style choices and Dr Chris Brown consoling contestants. In other words, Australia’s latest reality reno show is ticking all the boxes.

As the competition between the six pairs of contestants continues to ramp up, Victorian sisters Taeler and Elle are taking every challenge in their stride and earning high praise from the judges.

Meanwhile, the sisters’ traditional 1960s merchant builder home in the Melbourne suburb of Watsonia North is getting the Dream Home treatment, with their fellow contestants renovating different rooms of the home.

Who are Dream Home’s Taeler and Elle?

Taeler, 33, and Elle, 29, are two sisters from Victoria who signed up to Dream Home to give Elle’s dated 1960s Melbourne home, which she bought with her boyfriend Brody back in 2022, a complete renovation. As for the competition side (with the enticing $100k prize), the pair are confident they have an edge over their competitors; Taeler is a graduate of architecture and a professional house flipper. Elle, an HR Advisor, says she’s happy to take the back seat and let Taeler’s creative side shine through.

As for the outcome of Elle’s home, the girls are hoping for a modern 70s aesthetic with rich tones and bold gestures.

Take a look inside Taeler and Elle’s Watsonia home so far.

Dream Home_S1_ Taeler and Elle's house-kitchen
Photo: Channel 7

Kitchen

Rhys and Liam’s transformation of Elle’s kitchen scored high, earning the top spot in Dream Home‘s first judging round. Warm and welcoming, the kitchen features a neutral palette of timber, stone and beige. The curved timber wall leading to the butler’s pantry, large island bench and invisible cooktop all garnered positive feedback from the judges too.

DreamHome_S1_TaelarandElle-laundry
Photo: Channel 7

Butler’s pantry/laundry

Cleverly hidden behind the kitchen is a streamlined butler’s pantry and laundry space illuminated by soft downlights integrated into the cabinetry. While the area provides plenty of storage, a sink, and a washer and dry combo, judge Lana Taylor questioned whether an additional sink and dishwasher should have been included in the butler’s pantry space.

DreamHome_S1_TaelarandElle-livingroom-styled
(Credits: Photo: Channel 7)

Living area

Keeping with the warm, neutral colour palette, the living area -which was executed by Lara and Peter- enjoys plenty of natural light streaming in through the home’s pitched skylight and large sliding doors. Curved decor and soft furnishings add to the warmth of the space alongside a wood heater.

Living area

Although the judges liked the colour palette, they agreed that the space felt tight, particularly with the size of the TV.

Dream Home_S1_ Taeler and Elle's house-bedroom
Photo: Channel 7

Guest bedroom

Lara and Peter’s warm and calming guest bedroom impressed the judges with its curved walls and ceiling.

Photo: Channel 7

Main bedroom

Keeping in with the neutral tones, Brad and Mel’s renovation of the main bedroom saw them incorporate plenty of storage and recessed lighting.

Dream Home_S1_ Taeler and Elle's house-bathroom
Photo: Channel 7

Main bathroom

A fluted freestanding bath, black tapware and curved timber bathroom vanity featured in Brad and Mel‘s bathroom, and while the space successfully achieves a sense of calm and warmth, judge Simon Cohen said some of the features were a little dated.

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Dream Home_S1_ Taeler and Elle’s house-kitchen DreamHome_S1_TaelarandElle-laundry DreamHome_S1_TaelarandElle-livingroom-styled DreamHome_S1_TaelarandElle-livingroom Dream Home_S1_ Taeler and Elle’s house-bedroom Dream Home_S1_ Taeler and Elle’s house-main-bedroom Dream Home_S1_ Taeler and Elle’s house-bathroom brad-mel-dream-home-northcote Brand logo of Homes to Love Lana-Taylor-talent-kitchen Brand logo of Real Living dream-home-judges-hero Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-256611
The newest Cultiver collection proves that stripes will never go out of fashion https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/new-cultiver-collection/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:06:16 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=256679 And we couldn't agree more.

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Let’s get one thing straight – we love a good pattern. Whether that’s a country-style gingham, a bold houndstooth, or a classic herringbone, different patterns offer a different look, feel, and aesthetic to a room. However, one pattern that flies under the radar for most is the humble striped pattern – and its beauty lies in its simplicity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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beige-stripe lumbar-cushiopn mini-cushion cultiver-striped-duvet-cover striped-cushion cultiver-towel mira-cushion CULTIVER opens a flagship boutique in Mosman Brand logo of Real Living sofa with cushions Brand logo of Homes to Love bedding-sheets Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-256679
Let’s shop! Amazon’s Mid-Year Sale is here https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-amazon-deals-25243/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 04:20:37 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-amazon-deals-25243 Discover our top picks for this epic sale event.

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When it comes to online sales, there are two events that should be clearly blocked out in the diary: Amazon’s Mid-Year sale and Amazon’s Prime Day Sale. Whether you are on the lookout for new kitchen appliances or a touch of technology to impart on the home, Amazon is known to offer an oh-so-extensive list of impressive deals that are sure to bring a smile to your dial.

To make it even easier, we have compiled a list of home items we’ll be shopping for during Amazon’s Mid-Year sale.

Read on for your ultimate shopping inspiration below.

What is Amazon’s Mid-Year Sale?

Not to be confused with the iconic annual Amazon Prime Day sale, Amazon Mid-Year Sale is an online shopping event that is live for a week, beginning June 1. You’ll be saving big across Amazon’s plethora of categories, from Home improvement to kitchen to beauty and more.

Ready to start shopping?

Our top picks from Amazon’s Mid-Year Sale 2024

Echo Pop smart speaker with Alexa

$49 (usually $79), Amazon

DEAL: 38% off

Upgrade every room of your home with a smart speaker small enough to blend in and mighty enough to stand out. Fitted with Alexa and compatible with your favourite acoustic providers and smart home devices, stay up to date with news and weather, and keep in touch with hands-free calling.

Key features:

  • Smart home facilitator with Alexa
  • Accessible connection with Bluetooth, Apple music, Spotify, Nova and Audible
  • Compatible with smart home devices – smart plus, smart lights and other Bluetooth-controlled devices/systems
  • Available in four colourways; charcoal, Glacier White, Lavender Bloom and Midnight Teal
  • Built-in privacy controls including ‘mic off’ button

Read our full review, here.

Breville the Infuser espresso machine

$397 (usually $899), Amazon

DEAL: 56% off

Are you contemplating upgrading the quality of your morning brew? This Breville espresso machine offers barista-grade espresso in the comfort of your own home.

Key features:

  • 4-keys formula
  • Precise espresso extraction
  • Auto-purge function

Apple iPad 9th generation in Space Grey

$427 (usually $549), Amazon

DEAL: 22% off

Designed with industry-leading technology functions, the ninth generation iPad is your window into immersive digital living. Whether your intention is to create, connect, work or learn, Apple has the software and features to make it all possible.

Key features:

  • 64GB storage capacity (with the option for 256GB)
  • Space grey and silver options available
  • 10.2 inch retina display with true tone
  • Compatible with first generation Apple pencil, Smart keyboard and Bluetooth keyboard
  • Charging port: lightning connector

Lefant self-charging robot vacuum M210

$159.90 (usually $399.99), Amazon

DEAL: 60% off

Dreaming of a 24/7 cleaning aid? The robot vacuum from Lefant may be the solution. Fitted with Bluetooth connectivity and Freemove technology, keep your floors in pristine condition at all times.

Key features:

  • Freemove technology with integrated built-in infrared sensors
  • Compatible with surfaces inclusive of wooden floors, ceramic tiles, marble and low-pile carpets
  • Automatically navigates to charging bank when low on battery life
  • Quiet Cleaning with softer white noise
  • Control vacuum via Bluetooth connection with Lefant app, Alexa or Google Assistant

Nutribullet 1000W series blender

$109.95 (usually $169), Amazon

DEAL: 35% off

Combining powerful performance with automated simplicity, transform breakfast time with a nutrient-rich blend of your favourite superfoods.

Key features:

  • Powerful 1000W motor designed to blend even the toughest of ingredients
  • 900ml blender cup capacity
  • Smart technology – blast cycle automatically shuts off following optimum nutrient extraction
  • Dishwasher safe container and blades

BOSCH Unlimited 7 cordless vacuum cleaner

$466.99 (usually $629), Amazon

DEAL: 26% off

Are those nooks and crannies within the home driving you insane? The Bosch Unlimited 7 cordless stick vacuum cleaner features a unique flexible tube that makes cleaning under furniture easier than ever. Plus, with a powerful TurboSpin motor and a motorised AllFloor DynamicPower brush, it offers outstanding cleaning performance for the home, too.

Key features:

  • Flexible tube for easy cleaning
  • TurboSpin motor
  • DynamicPower brush

Dreame L10s Ultra robot vacuum and mop

$899 (usually $1899), Amazon

DEAL: 53% off

Clean every corner of your living space with the Dreame L10s Ultra robot vacuum. With strong suction power, a powerful motor, and a high-efficiency filter that captures allergens, it’s an ideal pick for busy households.

Key features:

  • Self-cleans during wash
  • Mops are cleaned and dried for you
  • LiDAR navigation and detailed mapping technology

Ecovacs DEEBOT N8 robot vacuum cleaner and mop

$368 (usually $599), Amazon

DEAL: 39% off

Are you dreaming of clean, dust-free floors at all times? A robot vacuum may be your answer. The DEEBOT N8 not only vacuums but also mops your hard floors, keeping them sparkling clean.

Key features:

  • Vacuum and mop in one go
  • TrueMapping technology
  • Low noise operation
  • Customised cleaning

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 5.7L air fryer

$134.99 (usually $269), Amazon

DEAL: 50% off

Crispy and delicious – sans the oil? Sign us up. The Instant Pot Vortex Plus air fryer will help you create healthier versions of your favourite recipes with six cooking functions in one. You can air fry, bake, roast, reheat, grill, and dehydrate all in one kitchen appliance.

Key features:

  • 6 ways to cook
  • 5.7L capacity
  • Smart dial control

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breville-coffee-maker Apple-2021-ipad-space-grey-1 Lefant-robot-vacuum-cleaaner Nutribullet-1000W-series-blender bosch-vacuum-cleaner (2) amazon homewares Brand logo of Homes to Love Amazon’s Big Smile Sale has arrived and we couldn’t be happier Brand logo of Homes to Love 13 Amazon finds for the home that are actually worth the hype Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-25243
A look inside the all-star property portfolio of tennis pro Lleyton Hewitt and soap star Bec Hewitt https://www.homestolove.com.au/home-tours/lleyton-hewitt-and-bec-property-profile-25475/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 01:02:19 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/lleyton-hewitt-and-bec-property-profile-25475 The sportsman and his wife, Bec, are serious players when it comes to real estate.

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Lleyton and Bec Hewitt are Australia’s very own sweethearts. The star-studded couple started dating back in 2005 and it wasn’t long before we all became obsessed. To be fair, they had the sort of whirlwind romance you read about in books: they got engaged after six weeks of dating, got married and announced they were expecting their first child all within the year.

Both of them were highly successful in their own right — at the age of 20, Lleyton was the youngest male tennis player to be ranked number one, and Bec was a star on the popular soap opera Home and Away. But it seems that it wasn’t just on the court and in front of the camera that they succeeded. In their almost 20-year marriage, the couple have played the real estate game, and they’ve played it well.

Below, we’re taking you inside every home Lleyton and Bec Hewitt have owned in Australia and abroad.

Three Birds’ Glenhaven estate, NSW (2023-current)

At the end of 2023, it was reported that Lleyton and Bec had quietly purchased the Glenhaven home of Three Birds’ interior designer Bonnie Hindmarsh and her husband, former Parramatta Eels star Nathan Hindmarsh for $10.3 million. Bonnie had previously described the modern coastal barn as her “dream home” having rebuilt from scratch on the two-hectare property in semi-rural Sydney.

It may have been Bonnie’s “dream home” but an offer from Lleyton and Bec Hewitt seems to have been to good to pass up.

(Photo: Maree Homer)

The glamorous one-level home has a the designer’s trademark white-clad exterior, while the interior features a central pavilion with 7m ceilings, walls of glass and a mammoth five metre island bench in the kitchen.

And apart from the resort-style pool, guest cabana, separate office and barn for storage, there is, of course, a tennis court.

Apparently the $10.3 million the Hewitt’s spent on this modern coastal barn-style property was mortgage free.

(Photo: Maree Homer)

Burleigh Heads Palm Springs-style home, QLD (2021-current)

In 2021, Lleyton and Bec bought an architectural Palm Spring-inspired home in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast for $4,305,000. They had been renting a similar style home down the road while they waited for the sale to settle.

The breathtaking beachside home was designed by PM Concepts and built by JG Building Projects and JSW Landscape and Design. It was sold fully furnished, with styling done by local interior design studio, Kira & Kira.

Domain.com called it the house that ‘almost broke the internet’ thanks to the number of views it garnered during its selling campaign, which is not surprising considering just three months before the Hewitt’s purchased the property, it had been bought for $3,750,000.

The breezy beachside home in Burleigh Heads is luxury living at its finest, with plenty of natural textures and a great connection between indoors and out. Photo: Brock Beazley via Domain

Toorak mansion, VIC (2016 – 2021)

Settling back on Australian soil in 2016, Lleyton and Bec bought a French-inspired residence that was still under construction on one of Toorak’s best boulevards. They spent $12.7 million to secure the property, and brought in architect Christopher Doyle and builder Peter Johnston of Royale Construction to complete the home.

When they sold it five years later for $15.2 million in 2021, it had five ensuite bedrooms, a grand foyer, formal lounge and dining room, 12-seat home cinema and an 1800-bottle wine cellar. The garden was fitted with a covered alfresco area, swimming pool, in-ground trampoline and finished with astro turf with a Rebound Ace tennis surface.

Now, the home is back on the market again with a similar price guide of $15.2 million to $16 million. But you’ll need to get in quick as offers will close on 20th June.

The Toorak home previously owned by Bec and Lleyton Hewitt is on the market once again with the listing agent, Tim Brown at RT Edgar. 34 Heyington Place, Toorak 3142 is a five bedroom, seven bathroom, and six car home, and is accepting offers between $15,200,000 – $16,000,000.

Expressions of interest close Thursday 20th June via realestate.com.au.

On the market

The grand French-inspired home in Toorak appreciated by more than $2 million in the five years the couple owned it. Photo: realestate.com.au

Luxe waterfront villa, The Bahamas (2009)

In 2009, Llyeton and Bec relocated their now family of five to the Bahamas in order to be closer to the US and the tennis circuit. In early 2009, the spent $3.8 million to secure a four-bedroom, four-bathroom property with its only private jetty in an exclusive part of an island in the capital of Nassau.

The home is located within an exclusive gated community, and its pricetag would have allowed the Hewitt’s to obtain permanent residency in the Bahamas, and therefore tax-free income. Although they have since settled back in Australia, it seems they still own the offshore property.

In 2015, Lleyton Hewitt hosted fellow Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios for a four-day training camp at his almost $4 million waterfront villa in The Bahamas. Photo: Sydney Morning Herald

Kenthurst acreage, NSW (2006 – 2016)

A year after their wedding, Lleyton and Bec Hewitt settled on a five-acre property in Kenthurst, in Sydney’s north west. They spent $3 million on the sprawling seven-bedroom family home, that came with a swimming pool complete with a children’s wading area, and its own play equipment in the garden.

Elsewhere on the property was a private golf green with bunkers, a practice net and clubhouse, along with two tennis courts. While one was finished in a synthetic grass, Lleyton resurfaced the other to replicate the plexicushion surface from the Rod Laver Arena.

The couple listed the property for sale in 2016 for $5 million and sold it for as much just 13 days later.

Lleyton and Bec’s house in Kenthurst was the ultimate family-friendly abode with a swimming pool and wading area, as well as its one playground.

Photo: realestate.com.au

Palm Beach holiday home, NSW (2005 – 2014)

Bec’s stint on popular Palm Beach-based soap opera Home and Away isn’t the only connection the couple have with the coastal enclave. They bought a five-bedroom holiday home there in 2005 for $4.4 million, shortly after selling Bec’s townhouse in nearby Avalon.

The three-storey home was protected by private gardens, while oversized windows and alfresco areas made the most of their views, which stretched all the way from Barrenjoey Headland across to the Palm Beach rock pools.

While the couple had price expectations upwards of $5.5 million when they listed the home in 2014, it eventually sold for $4,630,000 after almost 10 months on the market.

The couple’s Palm Beach holiday home was nestled into surrounding gardens, providing them with privacy while they made the most of their stunning views.

Photo: domain.com.au

St Kilda apartments, VIC (2004 – 2017)

In 2014, Lleyton bought two luxury apartments off-the-plan in a building in Melbourne’s St Kilda for $8,325,000. Located on the 19th and 20th storey, he further invested in the property, combining the two apartments to create a mega-penthouse set across two levels with 740sqm of internal space and a further 440sqm of “curvaceous external terrace”.

With 360-degree views looking over Albert Park Lake and the MCG, it has six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a private, secured garage that fits up to eight cars. Surprisingly, Lleyton and Bec spent six years trying to offload the property, which they originally wanted $15 million for.

After giving it a facelift, the young couple then relisted the property with a guide of $9.5 million to $10 million, but ended up selling it for $8,175,000 in 2017, again, at a loss.

The couple’s two-level Melbourne penthouse was equipped with all the luxuries including a private sauna and steam room, which was well ahead of the trend.

Photo: realestate.com.au

Adelaide mansion, SA (2003 – 2014)

Located in West Lakes in Adelaide, Llyeton purchased this three-bedroom, four-bathroom mansion in 2003 for a reportedly “overpriced” $3.2 million. The waterfront property features walls of windows, a spiralling staircase with a feature waterfall, indoor pool, and home cinema.

Lleyton originally listed his hometown property in 2008 with a price guide of $2.95 million to $3.24 million, but later sold it in 2014 at a loss for $2,185,600. It had been on the market for 273 days, and had been long left vacated.

The waterfront home in West Lakes, Adelaide had walls of glass to soak up the views. Photo: realestate.com.au

The post A look inside the all-star property portfolio of tennis pro Lleyton Hewitt and soap star Bec Hewitt appeared first on Homes To Love.

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<p>It may have been Bonnie's "dream home" but an offer from Lleyton and Bec Hewitt seems to have been to good to pass up.</p> <p>Apparently the $10.3 million the Hewitt's spent on this modern coastal barn-style property was mortgage free.</p> <p>The breezy beachside home in Burleigh Heads is luxury living at its finest, with plenty of natural textures and a great connection between indoors and out. <em>Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.domain.com.au/13-deodar-drive-burleigh-heads-qld-4220-2017002314">Brock Beazley via Domain</a></em></p> <p>The grand French-inspired home in Toorak appreciated by more than $2 million in the five years the couple owned it. <em>Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/34-heyington-pl-toorak-vic-3142/">realestate.com.au</a></em></p> <p>In 2015, Lleyton Hewitt hosted fellow Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios for a four-day training camp at his almost $4 million waterfront villa in The Bahamas. <em>Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.smh.com.au/sport/tennis/us-open-2015-nick-kyrgios-ditched-kansas-to-recharge-batteries-at-lleyton-hewitts-bahamas-mansion-20150901-gjc69i.html">Sydney Morning Herald</a></em> </p> <p>Lleyton and Bec's house in Kenthurst was the ultimate family-friendly abode with a swimming pool and wading area, as well as its one playground. </p> <p><em>Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/8-binalong-rd-kenthurst-nsw-2156/">realestate.com.au</a></em></p> <p>The couple's Palm Beach holiday home was nestled into surrounding gardens, providing them with privacy while they made the most of their stunning views. </p> <p><em>Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.domain.com.au/property-profile/9-palm-beach-road-palm-beach-nsw-2108">domain.com.au</a></em></p> <p>The couple's two-level Melbourne penthouse was equipped with all the luxuries including a private sauna and steam room, which was well ahead of the trend. </p> <p><em>Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-melbourne-125699578">realestate.com.au</a></em></p> <p>The waterfront home in West Lakes, Adelaide had walls of glass to soak up the views. Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/29-martin-ct-west-lakes-sa-5021/">realestate.com.au</a></p> A look inside the homes of 24 much-loved Australian celebrities Brand logo of Homes to Love Inside Lleyton and Bec Hewitt’s new architectural Palm Springs-inspired pad Brand logo of Homes to Love Leura-Bellevue-Hill-exterior-home Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-25475
11 couch cushions guaranteed to make a major style statement https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/couch-cushions-13239/ Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:00:13 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/11-of-the-best-cushions-13239 Plump up the volume in your living room.

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When it comes to styling your living room there’s no greater way to make a strong first impression than with a stylish cushion or two. Instead of re-arranging your living room or purchasing a new sofa as each season’s trends come and go, mixing up your couch cushions and how you arrange them is a quick and easy way to make the space feel brand new — without breaking the bank.

So, whether you’re after tassels or texture, patterned or not, we’ve rounded up 11 of the best couch cushions to shop for your living room — and answered some of your burning cushion-related questions.

A cosy collection fo cushions adorn and soften two tan leather sofas in this modern country home in Shoreham, Victoria. (Photography: Marnie Hawson | Story: Country Style)

What is the best type of cushion insert?

The answer to this question largely depends upon what the cushions will be used for. There are three standard options: foam, polyester, and feather or down.

Lightweight, durable, washable, and allergy-friendly, polyester cushions tend to offer more back support and are by far the most resilient of the three fillings. Alternatively, down cushions will give you that sink-in feeling, ultra-plush, ultra-squishy, and high quality — they’re a luxe choice. Just be warned: like other feather-filled products, such as doonas, they are difficult to clean! Finally, foam. It’s by far the cheapest option, so if your cushions are purely decorative, it’s a great choice.

What are the different kinds of cushion styles?

There are four types of cushions that you’ll typically find on your shopping journey:

  • Throw cushion
  • Boslter cushion
  • Breakfast cushion
  • Box/chair cushion

What is the most popular cushion size in Australia?

The most popular cushion sizes in Australia are 40x30cm, 40x40cm and 50x50cm. The cushion insert you buy should be the same size as the cover, or slightly bigger for a real plush effect — never go smaller or you’ll end up with empty corners!

11 of the best couch cushions to shop

velvet-cushion

01

Talik velvet cushion cover in Bronze

$120, Cultiver

This rich, velvet number from Cultiver will look right at home with any minimalist decor scheme. Pair with a neutral sofa for a look straight from the stylist’s book.

Sizes: 50 x 50cm, 60 x 40cm

Colours: Bronze, Dusk, Mist, Cream, Fawn, Mustard, Pine

Key features:

  • Silk velvet with cotton/linen reverse
  • Crafted in Turkey
  • Cover only
bonnie-neil-cushion

02

Bonnie & Neil double waves cushion in Rust

$160 (usually $200), RJ Living

Original artwork features on this cute, wiggly-print cushion by Australian creators Bonnie & Neil. Printed on oat-toned linen, the print features on both sides and is bordered by a sweet scalloped trim.

Colours: Rust, Pink

Key features:

  • 60 x 60cm
  • 100% linen
  • 100% feather fill
boucle-cushion-hommey

03

Big Boucle cushion in Forest Green

$99, Hommey

Snug but stylish, Hommey’s Big Boucle cushion is the kind you’ll want to cuddle up to on the couch night after night. Available in a range of colours and sizes, there’s a choice for every home, style and space.

Sizes: Junior, Lumbar, Essential, Big

Colours: Forest Green, Milkshake, Lilac, Olive, Stone, Natural, Pacific, Raven, Truffle, Sunflower, Duke, Blush, Berry, Latte

Key features:

  • 63 x 63cm
  • Option to include an insert
  • Machine washable
layla-cushion-white

04

Linen House Layla cushion in White

$59.99, Myer

Whimsical, romantic and flouncy, the sweet-as-pie cushion makes for a gorgeous addition to your bed, sofa or occasional chair. Its white hue may require extra care, but thankfully, it’s machine washable on a cold cycle.

Colours: White, Pink

Key features:

  • Machine washable
  • Cotton
  • Tie details
ruffle-stripe-cushion

05

Audrey pink ruffle cushion

$44.95, Pillow Talk

We don’t know about you, but we are all about ruffles making their way back into our homes. This playful cushion combines the fun of ruffled edges with a more classic stripe for a perfectly balanced pick.

Key features:

  • 50 x 50cm
  • Made from cotton with a microfibre insert
  • Warm machine washable
minogue-cushion

06

Minogue cushion

$29.95 (usually $59.95), Freedom

Velvet gets extra textural in the Minogue scatter cushion. The green colourway adds an element of luxury, while the chunky embroidery keeps things contemporary.

Key features:

  • 50 x 50cm
  • 100% cotton cover
  • 100% polyester filling
velvet-bolster

07

Luxury velvet bolster in Hazelnut

$79, Aura Home

We love a bolster cushion for its ability to add variation to your sofa or bed, and this sunset-toned velvet one by Aura Home totally hits the mark.

Colours: Hazelnut, Heather, Clove, Khaki, Rosewater, Forest Night, Slate, Indian Teal, Bijou Blue, Auburn, Tobacco

Key features:

  • 60 x 18cm
  • Cotton velvet
  • Insert included

08

Petrol 100% French flax linen cushion cover

$70, Bed Threads

For a design that’s classic and totally timeless, you can’t go past a simple, linen cushion cover. The seam detail and Petrol colourway of this Bed Threads design adds sophistication and style.

Colours: Petrol, Pink Clay, Rust, Terracotta, Oatmeal, Tumeric, Olive, Sage, Mineral, Charcoal, Pink Clay & Tumeric, Terracotta & Oatmeal, Sage & Olive, Lavender & Mineral

Key features:

  • 51 x 51cm
  • Cover only
  • Made from 100% French flax linen
check-cushion

09

Verona cushion

$119, Country Road

This cosy, winter-ready cushion belongs in a living room with a fireplace. Its soft wool and cashmere check conjures a quaint country weatherboard home and nights spent snuggled under blankets.

Key features:

  • 50 x 50cm
  • 90% wool 10% cashmere
  • 10% GCS-certified cashmere
mosey-me-cushion

10

Olive Poppy linen cushion

$89, The Iconic

Vintage-look colours and bold prints come together in Mosey Me’s super sweet floral-inspired linen cushion. It adds the perfect pop of retro cool to any living space.

Key features:

  • Cold gentle machine wash
  • 45 x 45cm
  • Contrast peach overlock edge
houndstooth-cushion

11

Weave Giovanni wool-blend boucle cushion in Cocoa

$114.95, Temple & Webster

Hello, houndstooth! This iconic and elegant pattern is making a comeback in a big way, and this cosy chocolate cushion is bang on trend. If cocoa isn’t your thing, there are two other neutral-leaning hues to choose from.

Colours: Cocoa, Mist, Salt

Key features:

  • Designed in Australia
  • 50 x 50cm
  • Dry clean only

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<p>A cosy collection fo cushions adorn and soften two tan leather sofas in this <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homestolove.com.au/new-country-home-shoreham-vic-24597" rel="noopener">modern country home in Shoreham</a>, Victoria.</p> velvet-cushion bonnie-neil-cushion boucle-cushion-hommey layla-cushion-white ruffle-stripe-cushion minogue-cushion velvet-bolster bed-threads-linen-cushion country-road-cushion mosey-me-cushion houndstooth-cushion linen checker tablecloth Brand logo of Homes to Love BedThreads-Wildflower-Sheets Brand logo of Homes to Love 11 warm winter throw blankets to cosy up beneath Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-13239
8 of the best juicers for delicious and healthy fruit blends https://www.homestolove.com.au/rooms/kitchens/best-juicers-australia-23378/ Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:31:41 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-juicers-australia-23378 Juicing at home is now easy-peasy lemon squeezy.

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A nutritious and delicious cold-pressed juice from your local cafe is arguably one of the best ways to start your day. However, it can quickly become one the most expensive too, with a fresh juice costing a small fortune nowadays.

That’s where a juicer can be a worthy investment, allowing you to make your own fresh blends at home. But to avoid having another appliance taking up space in your kitchen, you’ll need to know what type of juicer you’re looking for and which brands make quality juicers you’ll be using for years to come.

What are the different types of juicers?

Although similar to blenders, juicers work by crushing, squeezing and grinding rather than, quite obviously, blending. But not all juicers are the same. There are three main types: cold press juicers (masticating juicers), juice extractors (centrifugal juicers) and citrus press juicers.

According to Appliances Online’s Category Expert, Colin Jones, a cold press juicer works by turning ingredients against a mesh shield, producing a large amount of juice without a heating element (this means extra nutrients in your final product).

A juice extractor or centrifugal juicer, on the other hand, works by cutting ingredients down before a heating element is used to separate the juice from the pulp. This is a great option for those who want a juicer that works fast and can handle a variety of produce, including root vegetables.

Then you have a citrus press which works by crushing and exerting pressure to extract juice. Colin says a citrus press is best suited to those who juice fruits and citrus in small volumes.

With affordability, functionality and design in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the best juicers currently on the market.

The best juicers in Australia to shop in 2024

01

Breville the Juice Fountain Max Juicer

$339, Appliances Online

Thanks to a large 84mm feed chute, this powerful juicer from Breville can easily juice a wide variety of whole fruits and veggies. The stainless steel, titanium-reinforced micro mesh filter also ensures you’re getting more vitamins and minerals into your juice while the built-in froth separator produces a foam-free final product. In short, the Juice Fountain ticks all the boxes, which is why it has earned rave reviews and been selected as Colin’s top pick.

Key features:

  • Extra large feed chute
  • Micro mesh filter allows juicer to extract up to 20% more vitamins and minerals
  • Built-in froth separator

Available at:

02

Oscar Neo DA 1000 Ultem Tough juicer

$529, Appliances Online

Love a cold-pressed juice? Consider investing in this single-gear horizontal cold press from Oscar to have endless juices at your disposal. Great at juicing fibrous greens, the NEO DA 1000 works by crushing before squeezing ingredients and then straining juice and fibre for a delicious cup of juice. The cold press also doubles as a food processor and is great at making nut milk and butter.

Key features:

  • Crushing mechanism makes this juicer double as a food processor
  • Pulp adjustment nozzle gives you direct control
  • Horizontal shape ensures ingredients won’t get clogged

Available at:

03

Breville the Big Squeeze juicer

$799, Appliances Online

Another great option is Breville’s Big Squeeze. Featuring two chutes, you can easily add in your desired ingredients with little prep. The screw-and-filter system also helps the Big Squeeze to produce nourishing and texturally rich juices by slowly compressing fruit and vegetables. There’s also a handy pre-mix filter so you can easily stir all your ingredients together before indulging in that perfect first sip.

Key features:

  • Screw-and-filter system to slowly compress
  • Sprout plug allow you to mix your juice before you pour
  • Two feed chutes allows for ingredients of different sizes

Available at:

04

Magimix Juice Expert 3

$649, Myer

Powered by a commercial-grade motor, the Magimix Juice Expert 3 juices and blends with ease. Along with being able to cold press hard-textured fruits and vegetables, this workhorse of a juicer also comes with two cone sizes, meaning you can make pip-free citrus juices, and choose whether or not you want pulp left in. It’s also ultra-quiet and energy efficient, meaning you can prepare your early morning juice blend without waking up the whole neighbourhood.

Key features:

  • Three attachments for juices and smoothies
  • Compact design
  • Quiet but powerful motor

Available at:

05

MOD cold press juicer

$599, MOD Appliances

As ProductReview.com.au’s consistent winner for best juicer, the MOD cold press ticks all the boxes. It’s quiet, reliable, multi-functional and incredibly easy to clean. Plus, as MOD Appliances co-founder Katharine McCarthy highlights, a bladeless and heat-free juicer like MOD’s means the total nutrients in your fruit and veggies are retained when juicing.

The juicer also comes with a 20-year warranty, meaning you’ll be squeezing juice, sorbet and nut milk out of this machine for decades.

Key features:

  • Powerful motor rotates at 60 RPM
  • Can create frozen fruit sorbet and nut milks
  • BPA-free and food-safe

06

NutriBullet juicer

$149, David Jones

They might be known for their pocket rocket blenders, but NutriBullet also makes a great juicer. Compact and easy to use, this juicer features a wide feed chute so you can prep less and juice more. It also functions on two power settings; a low setting for softer fruits and a high setting for denser ingredients. Once you’ve finished whipping up your delicious concoction, you can easily store your juice in the sealing pitcher.

Key features:

  • Wide feed chute for whole fruits and veggies
  • Sealing juice pitcher
  • Self-contained pulp basin

Available at:

07

Smeg 50’s Retro Style citrus juicer

$249, Kitchen Warehouse

If you love a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice (and stylish appliances), you’ll want this timeless Smeg citrus juicer on your benchtop. While it may not produce sorbet, nut milk and veggie blends like some of the others on this list, it is a solid little appliance that seamlessly produces fresh citrus juices thanks to its stainless steel components and built-in sensor. Plus, it’s too cute not to include.

Key features:

  • 80W motor with built-in sensor
  • Stainless steel reamer and strainer
  • Anti-drip spout

08

Hurom H200 cold press juicer

$849, David Jones

Another top brand in ProductReview.com.au’s juicer round-up is Hurom. While Hurom has newer models, the impressive H200 is a Kitchen Innovation Award winner for a reason. It’s a great complete juicing system that can easily juice through whole fruits and vegetables, all while producing an impressive yield. Its built-in pulp container, strainer and tilted chamber make it easy to use.

Key features:

  • Built-in pulp container
  • Easy to clean and assemble
  • ‘Mega Hopper’ allows for whole ingredients to be added

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breville-juice-fountain oscar-neo-juicer breville-the-big-squeeze-juicer magimix-juice-expert-1 mod-cold-press-juicer-wellness-bundle nutribullet-juicer smeg-juicer huromh200-juicer smeg-matte-kettle-toaster-benchtop Brand logo of Homes to Love Buyers’ guide to small kitchen appliances Brand logo of Australian House and Garden best smoothie blender Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-23378
RecipeTin Eats’ Nagi Maehashi has put her $7 million home back on the market https://www.homestolove.com.au/home-tours/recipetin-eats-nagi-maehashi-hunters-hill-home/ Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:52:51 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=249087 Just three months in, the best-selling author has flipped on the Hunters Hill purchase.

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New York Times 2022 bestseller RecipeTin Eats: Dinner is a cookbook now almost essential to Australian nighttime rituals. Its pink-and-navy spine can be found creased open on many kitchen benches, its pages lovingly splashed with the side effects of a hearty meal. The book, based on a 2011-founded blog of the same name, was the country’s bestselling non-fiction title in 2022 — it even outsold culinary heavy hitters Jamie Oliver and Yotam Ottolenghi in its first year on the shelves. Little wonder the brand’s creator, much-beloved Nagi Maehashi, has earned herself a bit of cash to splash.

And splash she did, dropping $7 million on a Victorian-era home in the affluent Hunters Hill in March 2024 — a cut above the suburb’s $4.05 million median. The purchase marked a move south away from Mona Vale on Sydney’s north coast, where the former Brookfield Multiplex senior executive lived in a beautiful beachside five-bedroom abode with her trusty sous-chef, Golden Retriever Dozer. Nagi spent less than four years in the home, selling it in early 2023 to Clean Energy Partners’ Colin Liebmann and his wife, Julia, for $6 million — making a tidy $2.5 million in the process, thank you very much.

Despite calling the c1883 cottage, ‘Daybreak’, her forever home (big claim), it appears fate had other plans, as Nagi has already put the home back on the market mere months after settling, despite the proposal the author lodged just one month ago for almost $1 million worth of renovations and expansions. Although the reason that she has re-listed the home remains a mystery thanks to NDAs, exciting new career prospects were hinted to the Sydney Morning Herald by Nagi’s real estate agent of choice, Tracey Dixon. Here’s hoping she can recoup the funds — and some.

dark-kitchen-nagi-maehashi
The Northern Beaches home features — surprise, surprise — a chef’s kitchen. You can peep Nagi’s cookbook resting in the corner. (Photo: realestate.com.au)

The Lower North Shore pad, now back on offer, sports an ultra-charming facade complete with iron lacework, hedge-lined pathways, a gabled roofline, stone steps, and the perfect symmetry you’d expect from a property of its historic standing. The gardens, described as “park-like”, sprawl to the rear of the home and encompass a swimming pool, vine-covered pergola, courtyard, shed, and studio with one extra bathroom.

The home was sold to Nagi off-market by BresicWhitney in December 2023. Before that, it sold for $4.75 million in November 2019, which was in turn $450,000 above what it sold for earlier that same year. Now, the home has been listed with Tracey Dixon of McGrath, and you can view the property listing here.

You can get your hands on Nagi Maehashi’s record-breaking cookbook, RecipeTin Eats: Dinner for $24 from Big W.

Inside Nagi Maehashi’s Hunters Hill home for sale

historic-home-living-room
Photo: McGrath

The home is practically bursting with heritage charm and includes French doors that open onto the wraparound sandstone verandah and hardwood timber floors.

traditional-style-dining-room
Photo: McGrath

Arguably the second most important room in any cook’s home; the dining area is exquisite, featuring yet another ornate fireplace and traditional timber skirting.

kitchen
Photo: McGrath

The open-plan kitchen is generously sized and features a simple palette and plenty of storage — though we can’t help but wonder whether it would have received a Nagi-worthy makeover.

living-area-informal
Photo: McGrath

The rear of the home is light and bright. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors lead the way onto a stone-paved courtyard, which flows onto the expansive rear garden.

pergola
Photo: McGrath

The vine-covered, paved pergola marks the perfect place for alfresco dining and comes complete with an outdoor built-in BBQ. Golden retriever Dozer approves.

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Photo: McGrath

A glance back at the home from its rolling lawns reveals the second storey, which includes two bedrooms and a bathroom.

backyard-pool
Photo: McGrath

The solar-heated swimming pool and spa are shaded by a well-maintained, established garden.

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Brace yourselves, the EOFY sales are coming https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/eofy-sale/ Fri, 31 May 2024 07:24:49 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=256496 With early sales already live, the time to shop is now!

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While we are in denial that almost half the year has flown by, it’s hard to ignore that early End of Financial Year (EOFY) sales have already been trickling through into our inboxes (and we’re not mad about it). And though the thought of hitting the mid-year mark is a scary thought, we will never ever pass up a good sale.

EOFY sales are the perfect time to buy your wishlist items—whether it’s a new sofa bed, smart washing machine, or robot vacuum cleaner—at an incredibly discounted price. Many retailers and brands generally aim to clear excess stock during this time to prepare for the new financial year, and the best way (we think) to do this is to have a sale event for loyal customers like us, of course.

So, if you’re eager to save your hard-earned cash when shopping for your next home buy, the strategy is simple – shop them during the upcoming EOFY sales. EOFY sales are either here or about to drop, and we’ve done the hard work for you to find the best EOFY sales that have already started, as well as EOFY sales we’re waiting for this year.

Our tip? Consider this article your EOFY shopping bible. Bookmark it and come back often, as we’ll be updating it regularly to include new EOFY sales as they are announced. Happy saving!

Our EOFY sale picks for 2024

Want to know what we’re adding to cart? Below are our top picks we’re shopping for this EOFY.

  • Marcel Breuer Cesca replica velvet cantilever dining chairs in green (set of 2), $299 (usually $349), Temple & Webster
  • Morgan & Finch Margot cushion in cream, $39.95 (usually $49.95), Bed Bath N’ Table
  • Jonathan leather extended sofa with ottoman in Caramel, $4849 (usually $5106), Castlery
  • Morgan & Finch Milano linen sheet set in Rose, from $179.95 (usually $299.95), Bed Bath N’ Table
  • Aero fabric armchair in Cotton Velvet Beige, $1199 (usually $1499), Freedom
  • Dyson Cyclone V10 cordless vacuum cleaner, $749 (usually $1299), Dyson

List of the best EOFY sales

  • Temple & Webster: Up to 50% off. SHOP NOW
  • Bed Bath N’ Table: Save up to 60% off select items. SHOP NOW
  • Castlery: Up to $550 off storewide and up to 20% off sale pick. Plus, get a $50 voucher when you join The Castlery Club. SHOP NOW
  • Dyson: Save up to $550 on select technology. SHOP NOW
  • Lounge Lovers: Up to 50% off + extra 10% off sofas for four days only. SHOP NOW
  • Big W: 1/2 price deals on select items. SHOP NOW
  • MyDeal: Various savings sitewide. SHOP NOW
  • Kogan: Up to 55% sitewide. SHOP NOW
  • Aura Home: Up to 50% off. SHOP NOW

Other sales that are happening right now

Though some EOFY sale details have yet to be announced, many brands also have other sales happening right now, which you can shop while you wait for official EOFY sale details to drop.

Appliances

  • The Good Guys: Door Buster deals on electronics and home appliances. SHOP NOW
  • Betta Home Living: Various savings sitewide. SHOP NOW


Homewares

  • David Jones: Shop David Jones’ ‘The Clearance’ event while you wait for official EOFY sales details to be announced. You can save up to 50% off select homewares and up to 25% off home and kitchen appliances. SHOP NOW
  • THE ICONIC: Shop THE ICONIC’s end-of-season sale while you wait for EOFY sale details to drop. Currently, they are offering up to 60% off select items. SHOP NOW


Furniture

  • Freedom: Shop Freedom’s ‘Absolutely Everything On Sale’ event while you wait for official EOFY sales to be announced. Save up to 50% off all homewares, up to 60% off bedroom furniture, up to 50% off all rugs, up to 60% off all mattresses. SHOP NOW
  • Emma Sleep: Shop Emma Sleep’s Clearance sale while you wait for EOFY deals. Save up to 57% off sleep products. SHOP NOW
  • Ecosa: Grab a subscription to Ecosa’s new sleep app with any purchase. SHOP NOW
  • Koala: Shop Koala’s best-selling items. SHOP NOW

When does EOFY sales start and end for 2024?

The end of the financial year is June 30, every year. Generally, EOFY sales last anywhere between a week to a month. However, many retailers like to start their sales as early as a month prior to the end of the financial year.

How do EOFY sales compare to other major sale events?

Compared to other major sale events such as Black Friday or Boxing Day, the EOFY sales are comparable in both the number of retailers that offer generous EOFY sales and the sales/discounts that are available to customers. We’d recommend shopping those big-ticket items during EOFY sales, as prices will likely be at their lowest for most brands and retailers.

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24 stylish bunk bed ideas even adults will love https://www.homestolove.com.au/rooms/kids-rooms/bunk-bed-ideas-21129/ Fri, 31 May 2024 05:20:27 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/bunk-bed-ideas-21129 Space-saving and stylish, these bunk beds are an ingenious design choice.

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Looking for bunk bed ideas that aren’t just functional but fun? It’s hard to deny that bunk beds are an incredibly clever and utilitarian option for a bedroom, particularly for families with multiple children. But even if you’re working with a small room, bunk beds can be more than just incredibly functional, and lend themselves to plenty of creative ideas.

They are fantastic in a shared bedroom as they make great use of vertical space and create a fun sleeping zone for young ones, especially if they tend not to like sleeping alone at night. Bunk beds are also great for guest bedrooms, and there are plenty of ways to make them both appropriate (and even appealing!) for adults.

What age is appropriate for bunk beds?

Red Nose Australia recommends that children under the age of nine avoid sleeping on the top bunk as young children are more likely to fall when climbing up and down the ladder or fall from the top bunk while sleeping and are much more susceptible to serious injury.

To ensure your bunk beds are as safe as possible, Product Safety Australia recommend that connections and fasteners are checked regularly to ensure they are strong and secure.

To create a safe sleep environment, it’s also important to ensure that your bunk beds aren’t within reach of blind and curtain cords, lights and ceiling fans. They also recommend removing the ladder (if possible) from bunk beds when not in use to prevent small children from climbing unsupervised.

How to arrange a bedroom with bunk beds?

There are plenty of options when it comes to arranging bunk beds within a room. A lot depends on how much space you have to work with, and any specific restrictions within the room, including windows, ceiling heights and in-built wardrobes.

For small bedrooms, it’s best to position bunk beds against a wall so that there is enough room to still move around the space. For larger spaces, positioning a bunk bed in the middle of the room makes quite the feature and also means that everyone can access their bed from the side.

So whether you’re designing a kids’ room or a fun guest bedroom, take inspiration from these stylish bunk bed ideas that make the most of their respective rooms and space.

Is it cheaper to build bunk beds or buy them?

When weighing up the cost of building custom bunk beds versus buying bunk beds off the shelf, there are a few things to consider. Do you (or someone you know) have the skills and tools to build the bunk beds or would you need to hire someone? Hiring a carpenter or builder would cost a lot more than buying the materials and building yourself or buying ready-made bunk beds from a store.

It’s likely to be cheaper to buy bunk beds off the shelf or online and there are plenty of fabulous designs on the market that can be delivered straight to your door. You will need to assemble them yourself and it’s important this is done properly to avoid any accidents. If you’re not confident (or don’t have the time), hire someone to assemble them for you.

24 clever bunk bed ideas that save on space

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(Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green)

Blue built-in bunk beds

The vibrant blue built-in bunk beds in this gorgeous new build by the sea on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula — handpainted in Porter’s Paints ‘Mariner’ — perfectly echo the colour palette that runs through the rest of the home.

(Photography: Timothy Kaye | Styling: Ben Whitaker | Story: Australian House & Garden)

Custom bunks designed by Tecture

These custom-built bunk beds fit seamlessly into the contemporary coastal interiors of this newly-built Barwon Heads home. The timber and white palette is carried through from other rooms in the home, including the kitchen and living room.

(Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green | Story: Australian House & Garden)

Classic kids’ room with white timber bunk beds

The bunk room at interior designer Kate Walker’s former home was designed for when her partner Anthony’s kids came to visit. “It’s a very 1980s colour palette,” says Kate. “We used pink, blue, yellow, green – even touches of terracotta here and there.”

(Photography: Abbie Melle)

Small bedroom with twin bunks

Two sets of low-lying bunk beds sit proudly in the centre of one of the bedrooms in this playful Art Deco apartment in Sydney. This quirky decision allows for more beds – everyone can easily get out of bed without banging into a wall or climbing over someone else – and being quite low they don’t overpower the room.

(Photography; The Palm Co)

Loft-style twin bunk with double beds below

The specially designed and constructed bunk room at luxury accommodation Lumière Lakes in Lake Conjola is owner Zoe’s favourite part of the home’s design. Sleeping up to six, the light and bright space features a loft-style twin bunk and two double beds below.

(Photography: Jonno Rodd | Styling: Lucy Glade-Wright)

Playroom with twin bunk beds

At this Lorne beach house, designed by Hunting for George, a clever kids’ rumpus/retreat provides space for four children plus a baby in the nursery tucked away to the right.

(Photography: Brigid Arnott | Styling: Lisa Hilton | Story: Home Beautiful)

Twin bunk beds with book nooks

The nautical-style kids’ bedroom brings a ship’s cabin to mind and promises hours of salty fun spent on holidays in this fresh and airy South Coast beach house. Each bunk has its own reading light and a nook recessed into the wall to store holiday books and treasures.

(Photography: Anson Smart | Styling: Olga Lewis | Story: Belle)

Framed bunk beds

The casual living room in this colourful country homestead is adjacent to the new bunkhouse. Two bunk beds are framed with blue joinery and are a great way of adding plenty of beds for guests of the family weekender and holiday rental.

uma-on-werri-coastal-style-home-kids-room
(Photography: Louise Wellington)

Timber double bunk bed

A vibrant kids’ room at Uma on Werri — a beautiful new holiday house by the beach — provides the perfect escape for little ones who are visiting, with a double bunk bed maximising the space left for playing.

(Photography: Cricket Studio | Styling: Nicola Rogers)

Scandi-style timber bunk beds

“The owners were keen to build in as many beds as possible, so a bunk room was the answer,” says interior designer Georgina Jeffries of this holiday home on Victoria’s Surf Coast.

Hamptons style white bunk beds

Bunk beds are great space savers and a crisp, all-white colour scheme will make a small room feel spacious and calming. Here, linen in blue ticking fabric adds subdued colour while extendable wall lamps add another layer of functionality.

(Photography: Jessie Prince | Styling: Sarah Ellison | Design: The Designory)

Loft bed with timber ladder

In this luxurious holiday home in Byron Bay, the shared kids’ room features a striking wallpaper that adds a playful touch to the space. Timber ladders connect the ground floor play area to the elevated sleeping zone.

(Photography: Dylan James | Styling: Rebecca Leijer)

Plywood bunk beds

Inspired by the simplicity of Scandinavian architecture and minimalist beach houses in New Zealand, this contemporary home’s interiors are unassuming. “The palette is based on pale timbers, soft peachy tones and warm whites, referencing the colours of the coastline,” says owner Rebecca. Castello bunk beds from Plyroom tie in with the overall Scandi aesthetic.

This coastal-style children’s room, in a house called Ocean Wave designed by Adelaide Bragg, boasts a luxe version of a bunk bed. The custom built-in beds are spacious with the bottom bunk being able to fit accommodate a double mattress.

(Photography: Derek Swalwell | Story: Australian House & Garden)

Custom bunk beds with timber stairs

This coastal-style children’s room designed by Adelaide Bragg boasts a luxe version of a bunk bed. The custom built-in beds are spacious with the bottom bunk being able to fit accommodate a double mattress.

(Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Heather Nette King | Story: Australian House & Garden)

Timber bunk beds from Ikea

Busy Melburnians Simone and David Kelly craved a place to escape to regularly. The bush-inspired weekender features bunk beds in a more sophisticated style that is perfect for accommodating both children and adults.

(Photography: Alicia Taylor | Story: Inside Out)

White loft-style bunk beds

While an all-white palette for a kid’s room might sound risky, this renovated Byron Bay home features stark white throughout the house. In the boy’s room, a custom elevated bunk system was created to accommodate sleepovers and provide an extra play area.

(Photography: Jody D’Arcy | Styling: Lisa Quinn-Schofield | Story: Inside Out)

Custom-built double bunk bed

In the build of this small eco-friendly home in Perth, a custom double bunk bed was created to make the most of the compact footprint and tall ceilings of this kid’s bedroom.

(Photography: Lisa Cohen | Styling: Tess Newman-Morris | Story: Country Style)

Built-in bunks by Maine House Interiors

This five-bedroom, off-the-grid farmhouse in the Macedon Ranges was built to withstand a robust family life while remaining comfortable for when guests and extended family come to stay. Two double beds were installed below the kids’ bunk beds to accommodate guests.

(Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green | Story: Inside Out)

Bunk bed with stowaway trundle

The kids’ bedroom within a coastal abode features a bunk bed with a stowaway trundle. It maximises space while fun, colourful furnishings create a comfy retreat for the kids.

(Photography: Jessie Prince)

Custom bunk beds with mezzanine

The ceiling wallpaper lends a feeling of fun, as well as texture, to this monochromatic bunk bedroom. When renovating the Byron Bay cottage, interior designer Melissa says, “We wanted to capture the essence of the area and the connection to the lush hinterland and the beach.”

White and timber bunk bed

At the former home of comedian Merrick Watts, heated polished concrete floors and a sheepskin rug created a super cosy kids’ room. The bunk bed is decorated with bedlinen from Unison.

(Photography: Anastasia Kariofyllidis | Styling: Simone Barter | Story: Inside Out)

Twin custom bunk beds

This renovated beach house in Noosa features a curious kids’ bedroom configuration involving twin custom bunk beds. With four daughters, two of whom now live out of home, the design of this space was designed to encourage communication and connection between the children.

(Design: Clare Cousins)

Bunk-style sleeping nooks

In this Scandinavian-inspired home, a pair of beds are encased in custom joinery, creating a bunk-bed effect. “It relieves the amount of loose furniture required leading the space to feel less cluttered and more spacious,” says architect Clare Cousins.

(Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green | Story: Inside Out)

Single bunk beds from Snooze

A slimline bunk bed instantly transformed the children’s bedroom in this renovated miner’s cottage into a shared kids’ space. Playful patterned bedding adds a sense of fun while creating clear zones.

The post 24 stylish bunk bed ideas even adults will love appeared first on Homes To Love.

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kate-walker-country-home-blue-bunk-beds uma-on-werri-coastal-style-home-kids-room <p>This coastal-style children's room, in a house called Ocean Wave designed by Adelaide Bragg, boasts a luxe version of a bunk bed. The custom built-in beds are spacious with the bottom bunk being able to fit accommodate a double mattress.</p> homestolove-21129
10 ways to make your home smell amazing https://www.homestolove.com.au/lifestyle/make-your-home-smell-amazing-12000/ Fri, 31 May 2024 01:35:56 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/make-your-home-smell-amazing-12000 The secrets to a heavenly-scented home.

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Scent is often the first thing people notice as soon as you open the door, and whether that scent is inviting or unpleasant can actually dictate our experience in any given space.

Just think back to a time you’ve been to someone’s house and the first thing you were hit with is overwhelming dog smell, or on the other end of the spectrum, a headache-inducing candle (frangipani is almost always the culprit!). It’s easy to recall these memories because scent is so intrisically tied to how our brain stores them. It’s also easy to overlook overpowering scents as the person living in that space since our noses can become blind to scents when exposed to them for a prolonged period of time.

With all that said, there are plenty of simple ways to create a home ‘scentscape’ that is balanced, refreshing and free of unpleasant odours. But before you attempt to fragrance a home with a bunch of scented candles, it’s important to conquer the source of any bad odours (check rubbish bins, bathrooms and drains). Then you can go in with fragrances.

Founder of Glasshouse Fragrances, Nicole Eckels recommends placing diffusers throughout the home to ensure all areas of the house smell good. As for crowd-pleasing scents, she suggests staying away from polarising scents like big gourmand fragrances and instead opting for more fresh and well-balanced ones.

“Citrus notes and fresh scents, such as Amalfi Coast or sea mist candles, are wonderful for this. Background scents that are soft but ever-present are also great, such as White Oud (Arabian Nights), and floral fragrances like Forever Florence or Kakadu are perfect here,” she says.

Ready to make your home smell amazing? Here are our top 10 tips plus our favourite products for creating a delightful scentscape.

jam-european-inspired-bungalow-formal-living-blue-decor

Transform your home by eliminating the source of bad odours and selecting the right scents. (Photography: Prue Ruscoe | Styling: Olga Lewis | Story: Australian House & Garden)

1. Keep bad smells out

Dried coffee grounds and bi-carb are both great at absorbing nasty odours, so adding a few spoonfuls of either of these odour-killers to the bottom of your bin will do wonders for reducing bad smells. You can also place a bowl of coffee grounds in your fridge to pick up any yucky food smells. Replace it once a month or so.

2. Treat your sink

Think of everything that goes in your sink – roasting trays, blender attachments, even just those gunky dinner plates. Every. Single. Night. It’s no wonder it sometimes gets a little whiffy down there. So from time to time (once a week is ideal), your sink needs a thorough detox.

Pour a cup of bicarb soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Leave for five minutes, and then pour a kettle’s worth of boiling water down the drain too. For bonus points, cut a lemon into a segment the size of your drain, place it over the hole and pour the boiling water over it for a fresh and clean sink.

southern-highlands-weekender-blue-laundry

Your kitchen sink could be a source of bad odours. (Photography: Anson Smart | Styling: Olga Lewis | Story: Australian House & Garden)

3. Whip up a batch of room spray

Room sprays are easy to make from all-natural ingredients, all you need is distilled water, essential oils and witch hazel. Customise with your favourite essential oils to create your perfect scent and spritz to your heart’s desire. If making a DIY spray is not your thing, there are of course plenty of great room and linen sprays you can buy too.

4. For instant fragrance

For a welcoming scent that wafts through all areas of your home, simmer a pot of boiling water with your favourite fragrant ingredients such as cinnamon sticks, orange or lemon peel, vanilla essence, mint leaves, apples and more. Or, make like a real estate agent, and bake some delicious Florentine biscuits.

5. Deodorise rugs and carpets

Despite our best efforts, rugs and carpets can still be a site for spills and bad odours, especially if you have pets and children. To lift bad smells, you’ll want to mix a cup of bi-carb soda with a tablespoon of ground cinnamon and sprinkle over carpets (omit the cinnamon on white carpets). Leave this for an hour then vacuum thoroughly.

rustic-cosy-master-bedroom

Carpets and rugs can be deodorised using bi-carb soda and a touch of cinnamon. (Photography: Lean Timms | Story: Country Style)

6. Neutralise odours in your shoes

Think of how much better your home would smell without the scent of your kids’ grotty shoes. Amazing, right? If you can, keep them outside.

If shoes need to remain inside, a good clean from time to time will go a long way in reducing bad smells. Freezing them works (really! Just pop them in a plastic bag, seal tightly and freeze overnight; the bacteria will be killed and you’ll have lovely neutral-smelling shoes), as does spraying them with essential oils. If you’d like to do several pairs at once, just mix two teaspoons of any essential oil with two cups of water, and spray shoes liberally. Leave to dry.

7. Light a candle

Scented candles are an obvious way to make your home smell great, but there’s more to it than simply lighting them. When you’re not burning them, try placing fragrant candles in closets and drawers for great-smelling clothes, and when you are burning them, be sure to trim your wick to increase its longevity by ensuring an even burn.

8. Purify the air

There are two main ways to purify the air in your home: by investing in a quality air-purifier or investing in air-purifying indoor plants will look great and filter nasty toxins from the air. For extra points, plant fragrant herbs, such as rosemary or mint along your window.

A lush and leafy indoor plant will help purify the air in your home naturally. (Photographer: Jennifer Soo | Story: Belle)

9. Air it out

Got a whole room that just reeks, but you can’t pinpoint the source? Throw open the windows and place a bowl of white vinegar in the centre of the room. Leave for a few hours and the vinegar will soak the stench right up.

10. Fill a vase with flowers

It’s no secret that a bunch of scented flowers can instantly uplift a room. Not only do they look great, but if you buy the right variety, they can also be highly fragrant. We recommend selecting a bunch of gardenias, roses, oriental lilies, lavender, or even eucalyptus leaves to add a fresh and floral scent to you space.

Alternatively, if looking after and maintaining flowers doesn’t suit your on-the-go lifestyle (or you suffer from hayfever), opt instead for a set-and-forget home fragrance such as a floral-scented diffuser.

A bouquet of flowers on a kitchen benchtop

A bunch of fragrant flowers can make all the difference. (Story: Country Style)

Our top picks for a heavenly-scented home

Glasshouse Lost in Amalfi soy candle

01

Glasshouse Lost in Amalfi soy candle

$54.95, Adore Beauty

Featuring refreshing notes of freesia, herbs, sea spray and lavender, this Amalfi-inspired candle from Glasshouse is a best-seller for a reason. Unlike many other candles that dwindle in scent strength, you can trust a Glasshouse candle to offer strength and longevity with up to 65 hours of burn time.

Koala Eco Pink Grapefruit & Peppermint Essential Oil room spray

02

Koala Eco pink grapefruit and peppermint essential oil room spray

$17.95, Koala Eco

If you’re on the hunt for an all-natural, eco-friendly room spray, you’ll want to pick up this pink grapefruit and peppermint-scented one from Koala Eco. Made with essential oils, this spray provides the perfect dose of freshness without any synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals.

ecoya-sweet-pea-jasmine

03

ECOYA sweet pea and jasmine reed diffuser

$49.95, Myer

Great for bathrooms, a reed diffuser like ECOYA’s refreshing sweet pea and jasmine-scented one delivers sustained floral notes of white jasmine and refreshing watermelon and cucumber without having to light a candle or oil diffuser. ECOYA’s reed diffusers promise to last for up to six months in smaller spaces.

04

Aroma diffuser and mindful wellness trio kit

$139.95, iKOU

When it comes to creating a relaxing scent in the home, nothing beats essential oils. This kit from iKOU comes with everything you need to transform your space into a haven of tranquillity, including three essential oil blends and the Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser which has a convenient automatic power-off and purifies while diffusing.

05

Aesop Istros Aromatique room spray

$77, Adore Beauty

Inspired by the aromas of the bazaar, this luxe room spray from Aesop is packed with vibrant notes of pink pepper, lavender and tobacco to create a rich and smoky scent that instantly elevates. Like anything from Aesop, this room spray is on the pricier side, but for such a gorgeous scent and such a gorgeous amber glass bottle, we think the investment is worth it.

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jam-european-inspired-bungalow-formal-living-blue-decor southern-highlands-weekender-blue-laundry rustic-cosy-master-bedroom <p>Keeping a vase of flowers or a fragrant indoor plant, will help to perfume your home naturally.</p> restored-cottage-dubbo-flowers-on-bench glasshouse-lost-in-amalfi-candle-1 koala-eco-natural-room-spray ecoya-sweet-pea-jasmine ikou-aroma-therapy-kit aesop-istros-atomatique White resin diffuser on a kitchen bench next to cocktails Brand logo of Homes to Love 14 incredible incense holders to cleanse your home Brand logo of Real Living best candles australia Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-12000
9 paint colour mistakes you should never make https://www.homestolove.com.au/renovating/9-paint-colour-mistakes-you-should-never-make-12014/ Thu, 30 May 2024 06:43:50 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/9-paint-colour-mistakes-you-should-never-make-12014 Choosing the right paint colour for you home is trickier than you think!

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Painting your home is a major task you hopefully won’t undertake too often, so choosing the right paint colour is vital. A fresh coat of paint can instantly refresh any room, whether it’s a bright coat of crisp white, a bold colour choice, or a dark and moody feature wall.

If you’ve ever spent more time agonising over the difference between “Sunshine Yellow” and “Daylight Yellow” than you have with your family in a given week, we feel your pain. Choosing a colour isn’t a decision to take lightly as it sets a room’s mood and impacts how your furniture looks.

To save you potential agony, we’ve asked the experts and devised 9 major paint colour mistakes to avoid.

1. Painting a ceiling flat white

The biggest wall in a room is the one most of us don’t even think about.

“I never paint a ceiling dead white because all white paint has a bit of grey in it, and it takes the room down,” designer Athalie Derse says. Her suggestion: Choose a creamy neutral shade instead. Don’t be afraid to choose a grey or a beige either. We suggest hiring a pro for this job.

Styling: Tamara Maynes | Photography: Eve Wilson

2. Going too matchy-matchy

It’s tempting to keep things easy and just bring a fabric swatch to the paint counter. Not so fast.

“You never want to match your walls to a colour in one of your fabrics,” designer Sallie Giordano says. “It will be too strong. Find a greyed-out version of the colour.”

3. Leaving out ‘palette-cleansing’ elements 

Once you fall in love with a colour, it’s easy to go overboard.

“The biggest mistake people make when they’re trying to be colourful and exciting is to forget that you need to balance it with neutrals,” says designer Todd Klein. Painting architectural elements in white or simply adding a grey throw or two can give your eye a place to rest.

4. Playing it too safe

Conversely, if you go with a palette of neutrals, don’t forget to add a few stronger colours.

“One of the biggest mistakes people make with neutrals is not using enough contrast,” designer Betsy Brown says. “You have to interject elements that add intense personality. Make it gutsy, or else it’s boring.”

A mix of blue tones introduces a striking ceiling feature in this serene beach house. (Architect: David Boyle Architect | Interiors: Arent & Pyke | Styling: Claire Delmar | Photography: Felix Forest.)

5. Using wildly different colour schemes

You know it when you see it: The neutral living room says “relaxed, coastal chic,” but then the vivid bathroom goes “1920’s decadence”.

“Even when I don’t use the same colours everywhere, I still like the rooms to feel connected,” designer Mona Ross Berman says. “The bedroom should never feel like it’s in a completely different house from the living room – the whole house has to make sense as one.”

6. Using the same colour palette everywhere 

Faithfully sticking to your favourite hues in every room can create an “uptight” vibe.

“You need to know when to pull back,” says designer Tom Scheerer. “A two-colour scheme can be great, but there has to be some relief, or it comes across as too pat and makes everything seem stiff.”

7. Forgetting the impact finish makes 

For instance, an eggshell finish can take the intensity out of a rich hue — for better or worse.

Darker colours in general can read very flat, so use a high-lustre finish,” designer Meg Braff says. If you decide to go down this route, do your homework first. “Good prep is key to any high-lustre paint finish, so skim-coating the walls helps. You can get a deep, rich gloss without the expense of lacquering.”

A deep green offsets the warmth of a fire (when one is lit) in this moody and cosy country bedroom. (Photography: Hannah Puechmarin | Story: Country Style)

8. Selecting a one-dimensional hue

This is another pitfall that often comes up with more dramatic choices.

“Colours that have no depth are oddly fluorescent,” top designer Suzanne Kasler says. “They will leap out at you, rather than pull you in. It’s a subtle difference, but failure to recognise it sometimes makes people afraid of using colour.”

So, that might be why “Creamsicle” ended up looking like “Construction Cone Orange” on the wall.

9. Pressuring yourself to find a forever colour 

With all the hassle of painting, it’s understandable to keep falling back to the same look you’ve always had in your home. But, like personal style, our rooms can change over time.

“You have to trust yourself, but you don’t have to commit to colour all at once — you can play with it as the rooms evolve,” says designer Ashley Whittaker.

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<p><em>Styling: Tamara Maynes | Photography: Eve Wilson</em></p> <p>A mix of blue tones introduce a striking ceiling feature in this <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homestolove.com.au/macmasters-beach-house-18226" rel="noopener">serene beach house</a>.</p> Weekend painting project for the home Brand logo of Homes to Love three birds reno Brand logo of Homes to Love tile paint homestolove-12014
Elevate your bathroom experience with these hotel-worthy bath towels https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-quality-towels-australia-24454/ Thu, 30 May 2024 05:23:16 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-quality-towels-australia-24454 A humble bathroom staple that deserves all the love.

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A bathroom staple that flies under the radar but requires our utmost attention is the humble bath towel. Whether you love something lightweight to dry off after a shower quickly, or you like to indulge in a warm and plush number after a relaxing soak, finding the perfect towel is a personal journey.

That’s why it’s a good idea to wrap your head around the different towel options available (what’s the difference between Turkish and Egyptian?) to find one that will match your bathroom aesthetic and meet your objectively high standards for a high-quality towel. Because, after all, you deserve only the best.

2024’s top quality towels

  1. Two pack bath towels in coconut, $88, Hommey (here’s why)
  2. Boston towel in silver grey, $26.95, Bed Bath N’ Table (here’s why)
  3. Luxury Egyptian towel in dusty blue, $49.95, Sheridan (here’s why)

The best quality towels to shop in 2024

01

Bath towel in Coconut (2-pack)

$88, Hommey

This two-pack bath towel set from Hommey is in a stunning coconut hue and is crafted from 100 per cent premium cotton that is sourced exclusively from premium, top-tier suppliers and mills. Its heavy weight and dense loop construction has been engineered to quickly and effectively soak up moisture, leaving you feeling dry and refreshed in no time. Available in 11 different colours to suit your taste and bathroom.

Key features:

  • 700GSM & thick loop for extra absorbency
  • Woven loop brand label for easy hanging
  • OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100
  • Designed in Australia

02

Boston towel in silver grey

$26.95, Bed Bath N’ Table

Made from pure combed cotton the Boston bath towel from Bed Bath N’ Table is incredibly plush and effortlessly stylish. The classic rib texture and borderless design makes this range a suitable styling option for many years to come.

Key features:

  • Pure combed cotton using double yarn loops
  • Available in a range of neutral colours
  • Complete the look with matching bath towel, bath mat, hand towel and face washer

03

Luxury Egyptian towel in dusty blue

$49.95, Sheridan

Crafted from the finest, combed ring-spun, certified Egyptian cotton pile, the Luxury Egyptian Towel collection from Sheridan is made for those who take their bath towels seriously. Incredibly soft to the touch, Sheridan’s towels are tested well beyond the industry standard (washed and dried 100 times as opposed to three) to ensure towels of the highest quality are going to market.

Key features:

  • 100 per cent Egyptian cotton pile
  • Available in eight colourways
  • Entire bathroom range available to shop

04

Dani Australian cotton towel

from $19.97 (usually $39.95) , Pillow Talk

Prefer something bright or patterned? These towels from Pillow Talk feature a fun and timeless textured stripe design in muted yet colourful tones. It’s soft, durable and fast drying.

Key features:

  • Made from Australian cotton
  • Durable and fast-drying
  • Available in four colourways
  • Entire bath towel range available to shop

05

Wildflower & White Check 100% French flax linen terry bath towel

$120, Bed Threads

Crafted from 100 per cent French flax linen, this bath towel from Bed Threads is here to make a statement. In a bold checked pattern, it’ll add a pop of colour to any bathroom. Soft, durable, and absorbent – this bath towel from Bed Threads has everything you want in a high-quality towel.

Key features:

  • Made from 100% French flax linen
  • 500GSM weave
  • OEKO-TEX certified

06

Paire bath towel in Pewter

$75, Myer

Made with Paire’s patented technology, AirFibre, this 100 per cent cotton bath towel is incredibly soft, light yet oh-so fluffy, Plus, it’s highly absorbent while also drying 50 per cent faster than regular towels. It really doesn’t get better than this.

Key features:

  • Airfibre 100 per cent organic cotton
  • Takes half the drying time of a standard towel

07

Mayde Adventure towel in sage

$139.95, Hardtofind

Made from 100 per cent Turkish cotton, the Adventure towel designed by Mayde is the perfect combination of comfort and durability. Plus, its large check design makes for an excellent stand-out piece in your guest bathroom.

Key features:

  • 100 per cent Turkish cotton
  • Bathroom set (hand towel and bathmat) available to shop

08

Luxury Retreat bath towel in white

$59.95, Sheridan

If you’ve always wanted to sneak the hotel towels home, you can now replicate that hotel feel with these incredibly fluffy white towels from Sheridan. A part of the brand’s Luxury Retreat towel collection, these towels are made from 100 per cent Turkish cotton pile with a slightly heavier weight to it – it’s as luxurious as it gets.

Key features:

  • Crafted from Turkish cotton pile
  • Available in five colourways
  • Designed in Australia

09

Ettitude waffle bath towels in white

$94 , The Iconic

When we see waffle towels, our minds instantly drift to our favourite day spa. So, why not bring the spa home? These waffle towels from Ettitude are made from 100 per cent bamboo lyocell, making them a great option for the eco-conscious. Plus, its honeycomb design draws moisture into the base layer, which makes it more absorbent than traditional towels.

Key features:

  • Includes two towels
  • Available in three colourways
  • Made with 100 per cent bamboo lyocell
  • Breathable and gently exfoliates

10

Morgan & Finch Hampton towel

$25.95 (usually $34.95), Bed Bath N’ Table

Designed with the finest grade combed cotton, bring some geometric interest into the bathroom with a towel that is as functional as it is with the times.

Key features:

  • Available in four colourways
  • Entire bathroom towel range available to shop
  • Made from brushed cotton

11

Heritage luxury Egyptian bath towel in sage

$17.50 (usually $35), Myer

For a subtle pop of colour in your bathroom, this sage green number will do the trick. Crafted from Egyptian cotton, available in a bath sheet, bath towel, hand towel and face washer, grab the entire set for a coordinated look within the bathroom.

Key features:

  • Available in nine colourways
  • Entire bathroom towel range available to shop
  • Luxurious Egyptian cotton

12

European willow sea blue multi Turkish cotton towel

$38.49 (usually $54.99), Adairs

This range of Turkish cotton towels from Adair’s is guaranteed to elevate any bathroom. Contrasting against a deep charcoal tile or a stark white, bring a spot of life into the space with a towel that is as vibrant as it is plush.

Key features:

  • Available in two other styles
  • Made from Turkish cotton
  • Complete the look with matching bath towel, bath mat, hand towel and face washer

What type of bath towel is the best?

Egyptian cotton towels

Bath towels can be made from different materials, with Egyptian cotton traditionally taking the crown when it comes to the best type of cotton towel. Made from the Egyptian cotton plant where the staples are much longer (in comparison to regular cotton). Further, Egyptian cotton towels are more absorbent as it has a denser fabric composition.

Turkish towels

Turkish cotton hails from the Aegean Region in Turkey, and all cotton produced and turned into towels from this region are Turkish cotton towels. Turkish cotton feature long threads that are stronger and softer than regular cotton. And similar to Egyptian cotton, Turkish cotton also becomes softer and more absorbent as you use it and wash it.

Bamboo towels

Made from bamboo fibres, bamboo towels are a great eco-friendly option when compared to standard cotton towels. Bamboo is gentler than cotton and has a more delicate look and feel. It’s fast absorbing and has natural cooling properties that make it a great choice for warmer climates.

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Hommey-coconut-bath-towel Boston-bath-towel-Bed-Bath-N-Table Luxury-Egyptian-towel-Sheridan Pillow-talk-bath-towel bedthreads-bath-towel Paire-bath-towel-pewter Mayde-combo-bath-towel Sheridan-luxury-retreat-towel-white Ettitude-white-towel Hampton-towel-Bed-Bath-N-Table Heritage-luxury-egyptian-towel-sage Adairs-multi-turkish-cotton-towel The best heated towel rails to get you through winter Brand logo of Australian House and Garden Sand-free beach towels: your new summer must-have has arrived Brand logo of Homes to Love blue and green turkish towel hanging next to our outdoor shower Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-24454
8 unbelievable Bali villas you can book on Airbnb https://www.homestolove.com.au/lifestyle/travel/bali-villas/ Thu, 30 May 2024 03:48:52 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/?p=255710 Luxury living is just a plane ride away.

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With a flight time of under seven hours from the east coast, it’s little wonder that Aussies have made Bali their go-to holiday destination — we alone comprise almost a quarter of the country’s yearly visitors. There’s just something in the gorgeous beaches, friendly people, and budget prices that keep us going back for more.

Although Bali is small — a province of Indonesia — it’s home to incredibly varied landscapes and countless smaller destinations. According to Airbnb‘s data, the top towns in Bali that Australians like to visit are island Nusa Penida and the southern-most point, Kecamatan Kuta Selatan (a.k.a south Kuta, home to the popular surf spot, Uluwatu).

When it comes to ticking boxes, Bali’s villas and resorts satisfy a few. Airbnb data states that, while searching for stays in Bali, Aussies tend to pinpoint properties with pools, a beachfront location, views, and private rooms. To save you from trawling through quite literally thousands of options, we’ve rounded up eight luxurious Bali villas that totally take the cake.

8 incredible Bali villas

Como-Shambhala-Estate-Bali-tejasuara_residence___aerial_view

01

COMO Shambhala Estate

Begawan Village

Situated 15 minutes from Ubud’s city centre, COMO Shambhala Estate is a resort village with wellness at its core. A large outdoor pool and spa sits at the estate’s centre, and guests are invited to participate in tailored programs that benefit mind, body and spirit, including on-site yoga and pilates classes, an Ayurvedic doctor, and a dietician.

The details:

  • Rated 9.6 out of 10 on Booking.com
  • Various villas available that sleep between one and nine people
  • On-site wellness activities
  • Highly rated by couples
Photography: Tommaso Riva | Styling: Lisa Scappin

02

Villa 1880

Batu Belig

It was a five-year-long search before Australian-born interior designer Marcus Foley found the perfect plot upon which to put this idyllic retreat, Villa 1880. The property is actually a 138-year-old Dutch colonial house, stripped down and relocated to Bali’s Batu Belig neighbourhood. Sprawling across five bedrooms, the villa can sleep up to eight adults and a further eight children within a bunk room, who will no doubt enjoy using the 19 x 4m saltwater pool. Also available on-site is a private chef, driver, and housekeeper.

The details:

  • Sleeps 8 adults and 8 children
  • Boasts a retro vibe
  • Located a ten-minute walk from Batu Belig Beach
  • On-site staff to ensure every luxury
bali-villa-kecamatan-kuta

03

Ahura

Kecamatan Kuta Selatan

Comprising three villas, Ahura is a luxurious sanctuary that sleeps up to 10 guests across five bedrooms. Guests will enjoy not one, but two swimming pools, vegetable gardens, a 20m high watchtower providing sweeping views, a kids’ playground, and butler service, and are served freshly laid eggs from the chickens on-site.

The details:

  • Rated 5 out of 5 on Airbnb
  • Two swimming pools
  • Can accommodate up to 10 guests
  • 5-7 minutes away from Bingin & Dreamland beaches
rustic-villa-with-pool-ubud

04

Luxe villa in a tropical oasis

Ubud

This gorgeous villa is top-rated among guests travelling to Bali’s forest-surrounded town of Ubud. Sleeping just two guests, this villa is an intimate affair and has its own private pool. The design is completely open-plan — as in, open to the outside — affording guests a true experience of the tropical lifestyle on offer in Bali’s beautiful Ubud.

The details:

  • 4.91 out of 5
  • Located a few minutes’ walk from Ubud’s centre
  • Sleeps 2
  • Traditional Javanese joglo roof
the-cali-pool-villa

05

The Cali

Canggu

These pretty and poppy villas have risen to fame on Instagram and have become the place to stay in Canggu. With 11 villas to choose from (one, two, and three bedrooms), The Cali remains a top pick for many searching for the perfect Bali accommodation, no matter the group size. Each villa enjoys a modern Mediterranean vibe that sports clean lines, a pastel palette, and its own private pool.

The details:

  • Rated 9.6 out of 10 on Booking.com
  • Private pool and parking for guests
  • 500 metres from Canggu beach and Nelayan beach
  • Great for couples and also larger groups
four-seasons-bali

06

Four Seasons Resort

Sayan

Nestled by the Ayung River, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan features not one, but four dining options, an outdoor pool (plus villas with private pools), a spa and valet parking. The accommodation comes highly recommended by families, who are invited to take advantage of the daily activities and — even better — kids’ club.

The details:

  • Rated 9.3 out of 10 at Booking.com
  • Some villas feature private pools
  • Family-friendly
  • 10-minute drive from Ubud Palace and Ubud Art Market
maya-ubud

07

Maya Ubud Resort & Spa

Ubud

Overlooking Ubud’s beautiful forest valleys, Maya Ubud Resort & Spa offers elite luxury by the Petanu River. From villas with flower-adorned jacuzzis to two-bedroom Presidential Suites (which sleep up to six), Maya Ubud caters to groups of all sizes. Guests can indulge in four dining options, views over Peliatan rice terraces and a sense of total privacy without sacrificing convenience.

The details:

  • Rated 8.9 out of 10 on Booking.com
  • Spa and wellness centre on-site
  • Situated close to Ubud’s city centre
  • Bicycle rental service available to guests

08

Villa Zyloh

Kecamatan Kuta Selatan

Dubbed Villa Zyloh, this stunning build in Bali is the combined work of ex-AFL star Chad Fletcher and influencer/model Nathalya Cabral. The entire property, Zyloh Mansion, sleeps ten but can be separated into smaller self-contained villas to suit different groups. If you book the whole venue, you will have access to two swimming pools, a cinema room, a designated office, two living rooms and two fully-equipped kitchens.

The details:

  • Sleeps 10 guests
  • 2 private pools
  • Features a cinema room
  • Located on top of the sought-after Bingin Hill

The post 8 unbelievable Bali villas you can book on Airbnb appeared first on Homes To Love.

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Como-Shambhala-Estate-Bali-tejasuara_residence___aerial_view bali-villa-kecamatan-kuta rustic-villa-ubud the-cali-pool-villa four-seasons-bali maya-ubud Wye-Eyrie-II-exterior Brand logo of Homes to Love accommodation hunter valley Brand logo of Homes to Love 9 beautiful stays in the magical Blue Mountains, NSW Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-255710
Energy efficient heaters to keep you warm without breaking the bank https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-energy-efficient-heaters-24729/ Wed, 29 May 2024 07:17:59 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-energy-efficient-heaters-24729 Handsome, gives warm hugs, is budget wise and environmentally aware: is that too much to ask from a heater?

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It’s time to turn up the heat. Come autumn our breezy Australian homes are already frosty and as energy prices go up, we’re looking for heaters that won’t break the budget. From ceramic fan heaters to oil heaters and space heaters, there are many ways to warm a room. We have the hot tips on how to keep a room warm in a cost effective way, with the best energy efficient heaters for the season.

When the price of gas, and everything else, soars, an economical heater that doesn’t cost the earth – both out of your pocket and the actual earth – is worth the initial investment. Portable electric heaters are proving to be very popular this year, as energy costs rise globally, and well-known retailers are selling out of efficient heater brands faster than ever.

When looking for a new heater, compare the Energy Star ratings of different models and brands. The stars demonstrate how energy efficient the heater is, so when you see more stars, it means more bill savings.

What are the most energy-efficient heaters?

Colin Jones, who is a category expert at Appliances Online, says panel and column heaters are compact, portable and affordable, making them a great solution for many homes. “They don’t require installation and can be set up anywhere there’s a powerpoint,” he says. Panel and column heaters are also great at retaining heat and keeping a room consistently warm.

For large rooms, gas heaters are a good solution when gas costs are not blowing up as they are globally. They are efficient and effective, converting around 90 per cent of the gas energy into heat and providing powerful, instant warmth, says Colin. Depending on where you live, they can also be cheaper to run than electric heaters, he suggests, so check with your service provider before investing in a new gas heater.

The most efficient heater is the one that is right for the room you are trying to heat. Purchasing a heater that is too small means you have to run it on high and for longer periods.

Shannon Tweedie, marketing manager for home appliances at LG Electronics Australia, says it’s worth updating an older model of any heater that may not be as efficient as something more current. “Older heating systems tend to be less efficient and consume more energy. Look for heating systems with high energy ratings and certifications, indicating superior energy efficiency,” he says.

Energy efficiency doesn’t just come from heaters themselves, suggests Shannon. “If you’re in the market for a new heating system, explore energy-efficient options like heat pumps or geothermal heating. These systems utilise renewable energy sources, such as the ground or outside air, to provide heating. They can be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.”

How to choose the right heater for your room

Choose a heater that has the right amount of power for the room size. A 1000 watt heater will heat up a 10 square metre room or smaller, says Colin. A 1500 watt heater will heat up a 15 square metre room, and so on, he says.

If your room is 20 square metres or smaller, such as a nursery or smaller office, Colin recommends heaters that have a capacity of around 2.0kW.

Rooms between 20 to 40 square metres, which is the size of many family and living rooms, are best heated with column heaters, panel heaters and lower-powered gas heaters.

If a room in your house is between 40-50 sqm or more, particularly those with higher ceilings or unconventional layouts, it is best heated using more powerful gas heaters and higher-powered panel heaters. Rather than heat an area directly, they heat and circulate the air evenly around the room.

The best energy-efficient heaters to shop 2024

01

Delonghi tower ceramic heater

$239, The Good Guys

Heat small to medium-sized rooms with ease with this ceramic tower heater by DeLonghi. Featuring an Eco Plus function that regulates power flow and temperature levels to ensure energy costs are reduced where possible and a anti-fust filter to remove pollutants, this unit is perfect for busy homes and those who suffer from allergies.

Key features:

  • Eco plus function available
  • 24-hour programmable timer
  • Cool-touch handle
  • Ceramic technology heating element

Also available at:

02

Goldair smart wifi ceramic tower heater

$179 (usually $219), Myer

The Goldair tower heater marries smart technology with energy efficiency – two of our favourite things. Fully controllable by an app on your phone, or via voice control through Google Home or Amazon Alexa, this column heater warms fast and heats well.

Key features:

  • 2 heat settings
  • Wifi and smart home-enabled
  • Digital display and soft touch controls
  • Overheat protection

Also available at:

03

Dyson Hot+Cool purifying fan

$999, The Good Guys

With long-range projection, this air purifier by Dyson is quick to heat the whole room evenly. In warmer weather, a powerful stream of purified airflow can cool you down. When heating, the machine projects purified, heated air throughout the room and once your target temperature is reached, heating automatically stops.

Key features:

  • Removes up to 99.95% of particles as small as 0.1 microns
  • Sealed airflow and filtration system
  • Hands-free control

04

Rinnai Avenger natural gas heater

$1992 (usually $2439), Appliances Online

This convector portable natural gas heater by Rinnai is made for large open areas and is highly-rated by many consumers. Though definitely on the higher end of the price scale, this gas heater boasts energy-efficient qualities and is made to last you for years (and years) to come. Plus, with its dual programmable timers that allow you to pre-set on and off times, it means you can make the most of your heater without wasting energy when you’re not home.

Key features:

  • Low emissions technology
  • Dual programmable timers
  • Remote control

05

Vornado whole room metal heater

$254 (usually $299), David Jones

Perfect for a smaller 20-metre square space, the Vornado whole-room metal heater circulates warmth throughout the room at maximum efficiency. The fan is not quiet, but it creates a reassuring white noise at night (perfect for nurseries!), switching off when the desired heat is reached. There are high and low temperatures, and the low temperature keeps the room at an ideal temperature while the hotter temperature will heat a cold room up rapidly. It’s an elegant, simple heater designed to last.

Key features:

  • All metal construction
  • 2 heat settings
  • 12 hour auto-off timer and remote control

06

DeLonghi 2400W slimline panel heater with timer

$299, The Good Guys

This slim heater tucks away in any room but will make even large spaces feel warm and cosy. With 2400 watts of heating power at maximum, warming up your home is easy. Digital controls on the side of this panel heater are simple to use and allow you to cycle through the three different heat levels, set the 24-hour timer, and check the current temperature of the room. You can program this timer to only run your heater at the times of day when you’ll be at home.

Key features:

  • Wall-mountable design
  • Digital controls
  • Eco Plus function

Also available at:

07

Nordic ceramic fan heater with timer

$69, The Good Guys

This cute little heater can be transported from room to room and is great for spot heating – the home office under the desk, near the pet bed when they come in from the cold, or in the bathroom to reduce the chill. Plus, its ceramic heating element enables you to direct hot air for spot heating. It has a timer, so you can set it for the moment you wake to make getting out of bed a little easier.

Key features:

  • Ceramic heating element
  • Timer included

How to reduce the running costs of your heater

The cheapest heater is the heater you don’t use. Failing that, say our experts, these are the hot tips on being energy conscious at home.

  • Minimise the running costs of your heater as well by closing windows and doors when you’re heating it up.
  • Having your home well insulated preserves energy. “As heat rises it can escape through the ceiling. Having proper insulation will not only help through winter to keep the heat in your desired room, but also in the summer months to not allow hot air in,” says Colin at Appliances Online.
  • Find a heater that you can use all year round if possible. A split air conditioner can be installed in any room and give both heating and cooling capabilities.
  • If your heating system has this option, look at using the timer function, which will automatically switch on or off your unit after a period of time, suggests Colin.
  • Shannon at LG suggests sourcing a programmable thermostat, which allows you to set different temperature levels for various times of the day. “You can program it to lower the temperature when you’re away or asleep and raise it before you return or wake up.”
  • “Take advantage of natural heat sources, such as sunlight, during the day,” says Shannon. “Open curtains or blinds on south-facing windows to allow sunlight in, warming your home naturally. Close them at night to retain the heat. You can also use thermal curtains or window films to improve insulation and reduce heat loss.”

Is an oil, gas or column heater more energy-efficient?

Column and panel heaters are compact, portable and affordable and don’t require installation. They are extremely energy efficient and some panel heater models are even able to be wall mounted. These heaters do not provide instant heat, however, are safe to use 24/7 as some models have a thermostat to regulate temperature or have a timer for automatic turn-off.

An oil heater is great to move from room to room due to its portability, although they have a slow heat up time they do not dry the air out like some heaters may do. They are energy efficient and retain the heat due to the heated oil inside.

Gas heaters are an excellent option for small and large rooms, and you will usually find both natural and LPG options depending on what you require. They are very energy efficient and effective and provide powerful, instant warmth. Before purchasing a gas heater, check your state regulations and supplier costs.

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Stay warm this season with these sleek panel heaters Brand logo of Homes to Love Ema Peter oil heater' Brand logo of Homes to Love Stay cosy and clean this winter with these bathroom heaters Brand logo of Homes to Love homestolove-24729
15 things people with spotless houses do every day https://www.homestolove.com.au/lifestyle/cleaning/things-people-with-spotless-houses-do-every-day-10658/ Wed, 29 May 2024 05:55:17 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/things-people-with-spotless-houses-do-every-day-10658 A bunch of cleaning and home organisational experts tell us the daily habits that help keep their houses in check.

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We’ve all seen that meme, the one that says: “I get more cleaning done in the ten minutes before someone comes over than I do in a week.” We’ve read it, chuckled, tagged a friend and probably moved straight on with our cluttered, busy lives.

But there are plenty of people out there who never panic at the thought of a visitor, and whose homes just seem to, dare we say it, stay clean without effort. We all know someone like this, whose house seems to exist in a permanent state of spotlessness, even when you happen to drop in on them unexpectedly.

So how do they do it? Turns out, keeping a clean house doesn’t require as much effort as you might think. We spoke to a bunch of cleaning and home organisational experts to find out what they do every day to keep their house in tip top shape.

Overwhelmingly, it appears that their secret is to do a little bit each day and to develop habits that keep their homes clutter free without thinking twice. In the process, they exert less energy than those of us who resort to binge clean-ups. Here are 15 things people with tidy homes do every day.

A home that is tidy and clutter-free is both welcoming and calming. (Photography: Louise Roche / Stylist: Kylie Jackes / Home Beautiful)

1. They’re constantly offloading clutter

“Clutter is like a magnet, clutter attracts clutter,” say Amy Revell and Kirsty Farrugia, hosts of The Art of Decluttering podcast, and founder of the professional home organisation service of the same name.

“A home that has less stuff is so much easier to keep tidy,” say Amy and Kirsty. “Each day consider what items you no longer need that could leave your home.”

There are plenty decluttering methods out there – from the quasi-spiritual KonMari method to the everyday, practical approach taken by Amy and Kirsty. Listen to their podcast on Acast to discover solutions to real-world sources of clutter including sentimental papers, sports equipment, Tupperware and more.

To eliminate needless clutter building up around your home, regularly ask yourself: what can I donate, recycle or sell to make life easier? (Photography: Armelle Habib / Stylist: Heather Nette King / Inside Out)

How to declutter your home quickly:

2. They don’t shove things into a junk drawer or junk room

So you’ve done a quick clean up, only to blink your eyes and find that your home is again in a state of ruin. Jo Carmichael, professional organiser and founder of All Sorted Out says hurried, ad hoc tidy-ups just don’t work.

“What often happens with the ‘fast clean’ scenario is that the items strewn around on furniture and the floor are simply shoved into a wardrobe or drawer,” she says. “It quickly tumbles back into an unrecognisable pile of clutter once the family returns home and starts living.”

3. They store ‘like with like’

The solution is to seek out spaces where clutter hides and start storing like with like.

“Keeping like with like,” says Jo, “means it’s easier to put things away and find them, because t-shirts are together – not mixed up with jeans or socks.”

This will allow you to get ready quicker, and put your hands on the item you need without having to look twice.

Storing like items together is the key to keeping drawers and other spaces organised. (Photography: Kristina Soljo)

How to declutter your storage spaces:

4. They keep things in their place

“Make a place for everything,” says Jo. “It’s an age-old saying, but a worthwhile habit to start making your own.”

Jo recommends giving each one of your possessions a dedicated space in the home. If you’re not using something, “don’t put it down, put it away! Aim to put things back after use, every time and every day.”

If you master this habit, Jo says “You’ll be able to find what you need, leave on time, arrive at work or an appointment on time without search missions for lost documents, wallets or keys.”

5. They do it now

“Stopping procrastination is the key to keeping your house tidy,” say Amy and Kirsty.

“Open the mail when it comes in; answer party invites as soon as you get them; sign school notes when they are taken out of school bags and get your kids to put them straight back in their bags to hand in.”

“Don’t walk past something that belongs in another room without putting it away in its home,” say Amy and Kirsty. (Photography: Dave Wheeler / Australian House & Garden)

6. They follow the ‘only touch things once’ rule

“Have you noticed in your bedroom that all it takes is one item of clothing to be thrown on the floor next to your bed and before you know it you’ve got a floordrobe?” ask Amy and Kirsty, who say the remedy is to ‘only touch things once.’

“If you get into the habit of putting things away the first time you touch them, you’ll find it easy to maintain a tidy home,” say Amy and Kirsty.

This could also mean taking things ‘one step at a time.’ In the morning resist the urge to pull out the hair-straightener if your makeup is still strewn all over the counter.

As soon as you finish with one item, put it back into its dedicated place and then move on to the next step.

Put things away as soon as you are finished with them. (Photography: Sue Stubbs / Stylist: Steve Cordony / Australian House & Garden)

7. They tidy up before bed

“When you tidy up your house before bed it makes you feel that you are on top of things,” says Enjo founder, Barb de Corti.

In the kitchen, that could mean stacking the dishwasher, sweeping the floor and wiping down benchtops. In the bedroom, it could mean hanging up jackets, robes and putting away shoes.

Every little bit helps and will allow you to start the new day feeling fresh and accomplished. “I love waking up to a clean home,” says Barb.

Keep those good feelings flowing by making your bed as soon as you wake up.

Put away items such as bags, shoes and clothing before heading to bed. (Photography: Tom Ferguson / Stylist: Steve Cordony / Australian House & Garden)

8. They are mindful about what they buy

Home organisation expert and Oprah’s decluttering guru, Peter Walsh, says the key to a tidy home is to limit the things you bring into it. This can be particularly challenging in a world driven by consumerism and where sales are constantly happening.

“We’re made to believe that if we buy the right thing, we’ll be closer to the elusive ‘happiness’ we seek,” says Peter. “[But] I always tell clients – if the price is the best thing about an item, don’t buy it. Ever!”

Be mindful about the items you bring into your home: do you really need it? Are you prepared to dust it regularly?

If you find that you are a bit of a shopaholic, Peter recommends “Think about the hobbies you’ve always wanted to take up and enrich your life that way, rather than accumulating more stuff.”

In a world that is obsessed with shopping, it is all too easy to fill your home with unnecessary objects. Ask yourself whether you really need an item before you buy it. (Photography: Jem Cresswell)

9. They clean as they cook

Cooking dinner after a long day at work is hard enough without having to trawl through dirty dishes left over from yesterday.

Sophie Kovic, founder of eco-friendly, plastic-free food container company Seed & Sprout says “Having a chaotic kitchen can set a chaotic tone for the day, which is why I prioritise cleaning up before I walk out the door and start work for the day.”

Another tip she swears by is to clean her kitchen while she cooks by “wiping down surfaces after each use and putting everything away in its place.”

Clean as you cook to prevent dishes and utensils piling up. (Photography: Romello Pereira / Stylist: Alexandra Gordon / Belle)

10. They organise their pantry

In modern households, a perfectly organised pantry is almost expected. Gone are the days of half-open packets of rice sealed up with a twist tie, these days glass jars with custom labels and lazy Susans loaded with an array of condiments are the norm.

Sophie says creating an organised pantry is an achievable goal to have that can help you reduce food waste.

Stock up on glass jars before you begin organising your pantry. (Photography: Maree Homer)

As for her secret ingredient? “Jars, jars, jars! Thrift as many jars as you can in all different shapes and sizes for your food requirements.”

She recommends keeping an eye out for stackable jars like Seed & Sprout Co’s pantry jars that will help to utilise all available pantry space. “Jars are a great way to keep food fresh and you’ll also be able to see what is inside without labels.”

How to organise your pantry

11. They wipe down the shower

“My top tip for a sparkling clean shower. is to keep your bathroom as dry as possible,” says Barb.

“Use a blade to remove moisture from shower screens and a super absorbent cloth like the Enjo Bathroom Miracle to keep surfaces clean and dry.”

Likewise, it’s a good idea to wipe down the bathroom sink each day to eliminate the possibility of stains, odours and mould growth. Keep a stack of microfibre cloths handy inside your bathroom vanity to use exactly for this purpose.

Keep your shower streak and free of soap scum by wiping it down daily. (Photography: Tom Ferguson / Stylist: Anna Delprat / Australian House & Garden)

How to keep your bathroom clean

12. They have a system for their laundry

If your wardrobe looks more like a ‘floordrobe’, it’s time to rethink your laundry system.

“When you undress for the night, put dirty clothes in a dirty clothes basket or back into the wardrobe, rather than leaving on the floor or draped on a chair.”

If you need to, put the laundry basket for soiled clothing in the place that you are most likely to use it, such as the bathroom or bedroom, for example, rather than the laundry.

Create a system for your laundry that you can stick to. (Photography: Lisa Cohen / Styling: Beck Simon / Design: Norsu Home)

13. They ‘finish the cycle’

“Think about the term ‘finishing the cycle’; you’re not finished with the laundry if you leave wet clothes in the machine,” says Peter. “To finish, you have to wash, dry, fold and put away your clothes.”

Jo concurs, and recommends “Taking the washing off the line as soon as possible and put it away instead of letting the washing sit around.”

“Think more broadly about all the steps of your tasks, see them through to the end and you’ll begin to create a more orderly space around you,” Peter adds.

Put laundry away as soon as it is dry, advises professional organiser Jo Carmichael. (Photography: Armelle Habib)

14. They share the load

Keeping a tidy home shouldn’t be the responsibility of just one person. Everyone contributes to mess, and everyone should share the load of household chores.

Enlist help by creating a household chores roster, or delegating tasks to the kids or to your partner. Sydney-based psychologist says “So much of chore completion is about efficiency and effectiveness, and it’s easy to get caught up in folding socks the ‘right’ way rather than focusing on the principle being taught — whether to partners or children,” says Brewer.

Teach kids to put toys away as they play to help keep clutter to a minimum. (Photography: Maree Homer)

If everyone in the house is time poor, consider hiring outside help in the form of a professional cleaner and outsourcing tasks such as ironing, window cleaning, lawn-mowing and more.

Alternatively, seek out smart home products such as a robot vacuum, an automatic window cleaner or even a robotic lawn mower to do some of the dirty work around the house for you!

15. They are realistic when ‘life happens’

“Sometimes your day will go pear shaped so it’s important to show grace when this happens,” say Amy and Kirsty.

Life is all about juggling different priorities, and it is normal that a house will become untidy at times.

Sometimes, life just happens and that’s ok, say the experts. (Photography: Tommaso Riva)

“Relax,” says Barb. “If you have children, it is more important to have a clean home than a tidy one.”

“I commonly clean as I go to ensure that I don’t have to spend my spare time cleaning all the time,” says Barb. “I prefer to spend my extra time with the family and my gorgeous twin grandchildren!”

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<p>A home that is tidy and clutter-free is both welcoming and calming.</p> <p>To eliminate needless clutter building up around your home, regularly ask yourself: what can I donate, recycle or sell to make life easier?</p> <p>Storing like items together is the key to keeping drawers and other spaces organised.</p> <p>"Don't walk past something that belongs in another room without putting it away in its home," say Amy and Kirsty.</p> <p>Put things away as soon as you are finished with them.</p> <p>Put away items such as bags, shoes and clothing before heading to bed.</p> <p>In a world that is obsessed with shopping, it is all too easy to fill your home with unnecessary objects. Ask yourself whether you really need an item before you buy it.</p> <p>Clean as you cook to prevent dishes and utensils piling up.</p> <p>Stock up on glass jars before you begin organising your pantry.</p> <p>Keep your shower streak and free of soap scum by wiping it down daily.</p> <p>Create a system for your laundry that you can stick to.</p> <p>Put laundry away as soon as it is dry, advises professional organiser Jo Carmichael.</p> <p>These nifty wall-hung bookshelves from IKEA and perfect for displaying your child's favourite books within easy reach.</p> <p>Sometimes, life just happens and that's ok, say the experts.</p> living room sofa steel framed windows Brand logo of Homes to Love 40 tricks to clean every room of your home from top to bottom How to declutter your home in a day homestolove-10658
The best slow cookers for making hearty winter meals with little fuss https://www.homestolove.com.au/shopping/best-slow-cookers-australia-21743/ Wed, 29 May 2024 05:26:39 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/best-slow-cookers-australia-21743 It's time to invest in this handy lifesaver-of-the-kitchen.

The post The best slow cookers for making hearty winter meals with little fuss appeared first on Homes To Love.

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The day that slow cookers were invented was a wonderful day for mankind. Life becomes simpler and smoother in an age of slow cookers, giving you hours back that you would have lost watching and waiting for that stew to cook. Gone were the days of panic cookups after work, or burning the house down after leaving the stovetop on, when the slow cooker came on the scene.

So if you don’t have one already, it may be time to invest in this handy lifesaver-of-the-kitchen. Not only will these multi-functional cookers mean you’ll need less specialised kitchen appliances (which is a great way to save space in the kitchen) but they can look great on your kitchen bench, too. To get you started, here are the best slow cookers that are available to shop in Australia this year.

2024’s top slow cookers

  1. Breville The Smart temperature slow cooker, $143.20 (usually $179), Myer (here’s why)
  2. Morphy Richards 6.5L electric Sear & Stew slow cooker, $116.49, Amazon (here’s why)
  3. Russell Hobbs 3.5L slow cooker, $49, Amazon (here’s why)


The best slow cookers in Australia 2024

01

Breville The Smart temperature slow cooker

$143.20 (usually $179), Myer

In just eight hours, you’ll be greeted to juicy tender meat for a tasty weeknight dinner. This pressure cooker from Breville features an IQ temperature sensor that prevents overcooked meals and with a large six litre capacity, it’s great for big families.

Key features:

  • IQ temperature sensor
  • 6-litre capacity
  • Wrap-around heating element

Also available at:

02

Morphy Richards 6.5L electric Sear & Stew slow cooker

$116.49, Amazon

Looking for a pressure cooker that is as stylish as it is functional? Consider your search over. This model from Morphy Richards has a generous 6.5 litre capacity with a toughened glass lid so you can monitor your food while it cooks.

Key features:

  • Low, medium and high cooking settings available
  • 6.5-litre capacity
  • Clear glass lid

03

Russell Hobbs 3.5L slow cooker

$49, Amazon

Small but mighty, this slow cooker by Russell Hobbs will be your sous-chef come dinner time. Choose from multiple heat settings to suit your cooking needs and watch your dinner come to life through its handy glass lid.

Key features:

  • Removable ceramic bowl
  • 3.5-litre capacity
  • Dishwasher-safe ceramic bowl

Also available at:

04

Sunbeam SecretChef slow cooker

$49 (usually $69.95), Myer

Controlled slow cooking allows food to be tenderised and packed with flavour. And, with a slow cooker like this one from Sunbeam, achieving such is a breeze. Featuring an element that wraps around to ensure even heating, prevent food from sticking to the bottom, and eliminates the need to stir your food – whipping up your favourite dinner has never been easier.

Key features:

  • Keep Warm setting
  • Wrap-around element for even heating
  • Dishwasher-safe pan and lid

Also available at:

05

Russell Hobbs 7L matte black slow cooker

$79, The Good Guys

With a generous seven-litre capacity, this slow cooker from Russell Hobbs is perfect for one-pot meals for the entire family. It also features a tempered glass lid so you can see the progress of your dishes as they cook away.

Key features:

  • Glass tempered lid
  • 7-litre capacity
  • Cook up to 8 servings at a time

Also available at:

What is the difference between a Crockpot and a slow cooker?

Oftentimes, these two terms are used interchangeably. However, they are actually different cooking appliances. A Crockpot is a slow cooker brand (much like Glad Wrap, which is a brand of cling film). So, what makes a Crockpot a Crockpot? Besides its branding, a Crockpot was first introduced in 1970 and was marketed as a bean cooker. A Crockpot generally features a ceramic or porcelain pot that is within the heating unit – this is the key element of a Crockpot. A slow cooker can have the pot within the heating unit or outside.

With this key difference aside, the purpose of a slow cooker or a Crockpot is ultimately the same. A slow cooker or Crockpot will cook continuously while it is powered on.

The post The best slow cookers for making hearty winter meals with little fuss appeared first on Homes To Love.

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russell-hobbs-slow-cooker russell-hobbs-slow-cooker-1 Fresh vegetables on a table next to an electric pressure cooker Brand logo of Homes to Love The best air fryers to invest in this year Brand logo of Homes to Love The best multi cookers for easy and delicious meals homestolove-21743
Sunrise presenter Edwina Bartholomew and Neil Varcoe’s 140-year-old hotel renovation https://www.homestolove.com.au/home-tours/edwina-bartholomew-country-renovation-carcoar-nsw-25437/ Wed, 29 May 2024 04:07:37 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/edwina-bartholomew-country-renovation-carcoar-nsw-25437 Coming soon: a boutique hotel in the town that time forgot.

The post Sunrise presenter Edwina Bartholomew and Neil Varcoe’s 140-year-old hotel renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

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Most people probably think that restoring an almost 150-year-old hotel in country NSW would be off the cards. Well, not for Sunrise presenter, Edwina Bartholomew and her husband, journalist and technology executive, Neil Varcoe, lovingly restoring Saltash Farm.

After selling their storybook terrace in Sydney’s inner west in early 2023 for $2.58 million, Edwina and Neil promptly purchased a rundown property in Carcoar, a heritage-protected town roughly three-and-a-half hours drive from Sydney, for just over $1 million.

Not only is the new two-acre country property considerably larger than the corner of land the young family owned in Sydney, but it also used to be the town’s pub (and still has its underground cellar intact and accessible from the street!). They plan to transform the main building into a boutique hotel that feels like home.

“In just under two years time, we will stand on the same spot, in the same configuration with a completely renovated property behind us,” the couple wrote on Instagram. “That’s the plan.” Photo: Kirsten Cunningham via Instagram

And while the couple say in a video they posted to Instagram that they have no clue how to run a hotel, that’s not entirely true. They also own a 42-hectare regenerative farm in Capertee Valley, a large canyon between Lithgow and Mudgee, called Warramba, home to a stunning sandstone farmhouse the couple restored and now regularly rent out.

“It’s essentially an accommodation business and has been my hospitality apprenticeship,” Neil told Homes to Love.

But that’s certainly not to suggest they don’t have a lot of work ahead of them. With Edwina staying in Sydney during the week with their two kids and a busy work schedule, and Neil splitting his time between Warramba and, now, Carcoar, just the thought of adding renovating to the list seems exhausting.

To get the run-down on the reno, we spoke to Neil Varcoe about how he juggles his many hats – from “Chief Farming Officer” at Warramba, to dad – and when we can expect to see the hotel doors flung open.

Saltash-Farm-Carcoar-Edwina-Bartholemew-Neil-Varcoe-kids-farm
Photo: Supplied

Saltash Farm renovation

Edwina and Neil had given themselves 12 months to complete the renovations of Saltash Farm in Carcoar, including the hotel, adjacent luxury cabins and spa and pool, collaborating with Howarth Building and architecture firm Studio Esteta, who worked on their home in Sydney.

They’re planning on turning what is currently operating as a café into a dining area, the current dining room will become a reception, and the front room will be used as a library. Each room and the seven accompanying bathrooms will need renovating, and they haven’t quite settled on a plan for the old shed yet. “Maybe a bar for functions or a shop for guests,” Edwina suggests in a video update on their build’s Instagram account, @saltash__farm.

However, they’re running a little behind schedule. A town planner, accessibility expert, and the Council’s Heritage Expert reviewed their proposal and found 15 items, including their septic waste management plans, that needed to be fixed. “We hoped to get started in January — but that was wildly optimistic.”

Photo: Instagram

The development application was also put on exhibition, which is where the proposal is halted and the community is encouraged to provide feedback. This concluded a few weeks ago and received two submissions, both of which Neil said were “mostly reasonable requests with easy fixes.”

“The previous owners invited us to a handover meeting,” continues Neil. “I had expected to be shown which key opens which door and how to use the boiler. As it turns out, there were 40 or 50 people in the café — tables were corralled in the middle of the room, and they’d each bought a plate. There were even speeches.”

“As I worked my way around the room, it became clear that this was not my project — it was ours. The town felt a sense of ownership over the building. Saltash Farm had to be a project they could be proud of — and feel welcome into in some way.”

The first test came a short time later when the name they’d chosen — The Victoria — was contested. “We’d named if after a historical title when it was a pub,” says Neil. “People felt we’d gotten the history wrong, so we changed it. It became the first European name for this lot, Saltash Farm. This involved months of paperwork — but it was important to the town, so it was important to us.”

Saltash-Farm-Carcoar-Edwina-Bartholemew-Neil-Varcoe-shed
Photo: Supplied

Grounds of Saltash Farm

As for the exterior of the hotel, due to Carcoar’s unique heritage guidelines, the couple will be limited with what they can do, even down to their colour choices. “The heritage guidelines are designed to preserve and protect significant buildings. We’re aligned in our goals. I love them, and besides, constraints create magic,” says Neil.

“Outside, we’ve been pragmatic — matching the colour scheme to the roof colour to save costs. It will be Dulux Portland Stone and Lime White — with Manor Red accents to tie in with the roof. It’s within heritage guidelines and is designed to blend into the streetscape rather than call attention to itself.”

“We have also decided to add a verandah to the shed on the advice of the heritage expert at the front to ensure it blends in with the streetscape,” Edwina told Realestate.com.au.

Plus, the home will boast a seven star energy efficiency rating, with water tanks on every building and solar panels on the new structures.

Next on the list is cracking into the surrounding gardens, for which they’re working with Richard Unsworth and Beck Colechin’s landscape design studio, Studio UC. They have plans for an established heritage garden, orchard, organic kitchen garden, outdoor fireplace, paths, a chook shed with rare breed chickens, cubby house and even sheep.

“We had a significant clean-up over spring and summer and then walked around Carcoar to chose the same trees or species that complement what’s there — and even mirrored an adjoining neighbour’s garden so they could see plants they love,” says Neil.

“We’ll extend the gardens significantly to be roughly double what they are now. The hotel will have over an acre of gardens wrapped around it where we’ll run Australian White sheep on the hill below the historic Carcoar Train Station. It will look and feel like a guest house of old — updated for today.”

Interiors of Saltash Farm

Inside, they’ve started clearing out all of the furniture (and ghosts!) that had been left behind by previous owners, and had a garage sale to make sure it didn’t all end up in landfill. Neil shared on his Instagram that they even had to bring in crime scene cleaners to help purge the property and remove food that had expired over eight years ago.

“We want every room to be a different colour and feel really different. It’s a hotel and not a home so can be a bit more avant-garde with our design,” Edwina told realestate.com.au of their eclectic palette, which favours “darker heritage colours”.

The walls will feature all Australian artists and, with some works commissioned, Neil joked that their budget might be running on empty. “Edwina and I had a discussion yesterday about how much of the budget has already been spent on art — so much so that we may not have the cash to build the walls to hang them on!”

For Neil, a key highlight will be an original piece by Brisbane artist Kate Pittas, an Australian mural which will sit in the reception room. “It will be inspired by the drawing and dining rooms of the Victorian era and will be unique to Saltash Farm. It’s one of my favourite design choices so far.”

Saltash Farm’s inspiration…

Neil takes his inspiration from the iconic country projects surrounding him in regional NSW, including Wilga Station in Bathurst to The Tourist Hotel in Narrabri and the eponymous Nyngan Hotel. “We also recently visited Heatherbrae — it is a magnificent restoration of one of Melbourne’s first mansions.”

“The hotel that has provided the deepest inspiration has been Ett Hem Stockholm. With Warramba, we wanted it to feel like home. We peeled back anything that made it look or feel like a holiday rental, so people could imagine that this was their country life for the weekend.”

“We imagined the same feeling at Saltash — an open kitchen with a large table where you could grab a bowl of cereal or a glass of wine; shared meals and nooks to sit. Ett Hem showed us that this was possible.”

The couple reportedly raised thousands of dollars from their garage sale, which they donated to various community groups including Carcoar Public School and Stoke Stable Museum. Photo: Instagram

“There was a time when you had to move to the city to pursue your dreams — now, the opposite seems true,” says Neil. “A wide array of smart, creative people are moving to the country — and that brings a host of benefits and opportunities.”

“Life in Carcoar is like stepping into a picture book. It is the third-oldest settlement west of the Blue Mountains. It’s a village frozen in time.”

“Church bells invite you to get serious about the day at 9 am and call you to dinner at 6 pm. News is delivered by mouth over picket fences, and everyone has time for a chat. It doesn’t just feel like a simpler time. It is.”

“Near me, there’s Parlour O —  a Paddington hairdresser with a satellite salon in Orange — Sydney-quality coffee at The Village Grocer Carcoar and Milthorpe Providore, and excellent schools, shopping, and entertainment. My favourite restaurant in the world — Antica Australis — is four minutes walk from my house. Living regionally, I don’t feel like I’m missing out.”

Life in Carcoar…

When will Saltash Farm open?

“We still expect to be open in Autumn 2025, although it will take as long as it takes to get it right. It’s a special building in an extraordinary town. It’s important that we do it right,” says Neil

“We’ll have a schedule of events — including cooking classes and creative workshops. There’ll also be a spa with massage therapists. These are examples of the kinds of experiences that residents will be able to enjoy.”  

We’ll be keeping a close eye on what comes next. For more, you can follow along on Instagram at @saltash__farm.

Saltash-Farm-Carcoar-Edwina-Bartholemew-Neil-Varcoe-aerial-land-scaled.jpg
Photo: Supplied

The post Sunrise presenter Edwina Bartholomew and Neil Varcoe’s 140-year-old hotel renovation appeared first on Homes To Love.

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Edwina Bartholemew fram <p>"In just under two years time, we will stand on the same spot, in the same configuration with a completely renovated property behind us," the couple wrote on Instagram. "That's the plan." </p> <p><em>Photo: Kirsten Cunningham via <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtBwbNCPt8f/">Instagram</a></em></p> Saltash-Farm-Carcoar-Edwina-Bartholemew-Neil-Varcoe-kids-farm Saltash-Farm-Carcoar-Edwina-Bartholemew-Neil-Varcoe-shed <p>The couple reportedly raised thousands of dollars from their garage sale, which they donated to various community groups including Carcoar Public School and Stoke Stable Museum. </p> <p><em>Photo: <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy8GL5ArxX3/?img_index=1">Instagram</a></em></p> Saltash-Farm-Carcoar-Edwina-Bartholemew-Neil-Varcoe-aerial-land-scaled.jpg homestolove-25437