Style of home: A 1950s weatherboard house with a large contemporary extension.

Location: Melbourne’s outer eastern suburbs, traditional land of the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people of the Kulin nation.

Timeline: After purchasing in 2019, the couple moved into the backyard bungalow and began the planning phase. Work commenced in May 2021 and was completed that November.

Choosing a fireplace over an engagement ring takes a highly dedicated renovator, and that’s exactly what Erin did in a quest to create the perfect family home with her partner, Julian. Yet it was her ability to spot another kind of gem that led them to this home, which nobody else was brave enough to tackle. “It was for sale twice, and the owners actually took it off the market the first time because there was no interest. When I looked at it, people were walking out saying, ‘No way, there’s too much work – it’s all yours.’

Once the home was theirs, the couple moved into a tiny one-room bungalow that was already in the backyard and began tackling the mess. “It was a real sight,” says Erin. “Every wall and floor seemed different, the doors were glued shut and made into shelving spaces, there was a chest freezer in the entry, and a murky pond in the backyard. But it’s my passion to take on projects like this – I love finding a diamond in the rough.”

Their first win was discovering original weatherboards underneath the fake-brick cladding. “For months, I kept telling Julz it would have the old boards underneath and it would be amazing,” says Erin, laughing. “I had renovated before, but it was his first time and he was incredible, placing such faith in my choice of this place.”

The couple briefed an old friend, architect David Noordhoff, to design a home that would preserve the original structure and streetscape and be big enough for a future family while preserving a good amount of backyard space. “We wanted a home that was super usable and felt calm in summer and winter,” says Erin. “We looked at many open homes, magazines, Instagram, and drew up lots of potential designs we thought could work for us before discussing the brief with David.”

During the planning-and-approval process, Erin and Julian took on as many tasks as they could, including removing the cladding, gutting internal rooms, removing a lean-to, and cleaning up the gardens. “We oversaw the re-stumping, the roof replacement, and I even completed a Diploma of Building and Construction – then fell pregnant. It was a lot!” she says.

The six-month build was beset with Covid-related delays, but Erin’s knowledge and experience was a game-changer. ‘The builders were comfortable with me sourcing fittings such as vanities, the bath, the sinks and door handles, which meant I could buy and store things ahead of time. That meant everything was accessible and ready as soon as the build team needed it.”

Instead of building from scratch, Erin and Julian took on a project that many people had shied away from. “When something has beautiful bones, is made of quality material and can be fixed, whether that’s a house or a piece of furniture, we like to give it a go.”

GOOD NEWS

Post-renovation, what was a muddle of rooms now flows through to a bright white extension (both inside and out) with light grey polished-concrete flooring in a custom colour mix that reflects the abundant natural light from the overhead skylights. Erin took the design lead and selected sturdy, elegant materials to create what she calls an “easy entertaining home”. “I haven’t really worked out what the overall style is as I take bits of inspiration from all types of homes and places.”

The feeling of calm that Erin craved has been consolidated through her chosen colour palette of calm natural hues. “Now the place is complete and we’ve added another child and two dogs into the mix, we’re thrilled that it’s such an easy house to live in amongst the chaos. We’re still not engaged, but it was money well spent because we love that fireplace!”

Lessons learnt

Go with your gut feeling for the big things,” says Erin, homeowner. “We originally wanted the main bedroom to be in the spot where the study is, but changed it at the last minute. In hindsight, though, we probably should have stuck to our first plan.”

David Noordhoff is at dnarchi.au and @dn.archi

See more renvoated weatherboard homes

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02:09

23 wonderful weatherboard homes

An instruction to ‘add colour’ took this weatherboard cottage to a joyfully elegant place

A refreshed weatherboard weekender that honours its original 1950s design

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The post A family-friendly gem carved out of a property no one was brave enough to touch appeared first on Homes To Love.

Eliza finds inspiration in everything and everywhere, and as part of pulling the magazine together each month, curates a list of up-and-coming destinations, noteworthy shopping collections, design news, and emerging brands in a recurring segment titled ‘The Cut’.

Here’s what made it this month.

Eliza O’Hare’s trending design picks

ABI Interiors’ stylish farmhouse sink

Functional yet aesthetic, the Hartley farmhouse sink from ABI Interiors will add instant rustic charm to your kitchen or laundry. Made from stain- and abrasion-resistant fireclay, it can be customised to suit any sized space or mounting requirement, with either a fluted or flat profile, making it the perfect choice for an elevated design in your wash zone.

abiinteriors.com.au

Zenn Design’s new Caulfield South showroom

Melbourne’s leading upholstery and design firm has just unveiled a Japandi concept for its Caulfield South showroom. Featuring the work of architectural stylist Karin Bochnik (pictured), the new Zenn Design space is a calming sea of organic and nature-inspired influences – the perfect setting for the company’s latest collections. Expect amazing yet easy-to-live-with fabrics, and sage advice about handcrafted beds, bedheads, soft furnishings and upholstered pieces.

zenndesign.com.au

Globewest’s eight new collections

GlobeWest has just released a staggering eight collections, including 250 new products. On-trend walnut finishes (above) are a highlight. We love the Easton Button lamp, $220, and Sidney Peak three-seater sofa, from $5465.

globewest.com.au

Koskela’s First Nations Woven Lighting collaboration

Koskela’s First Nations Woven Lighting collection is the culmination of 15 years’ collaboration between the design company and First Nations artists and art centres. Made from locally sourced fibres by highly skilled weavers, the range includes meticulously handwoven pendant lights, floor lamps and wall lights. Priced from $1190.

koskela.com.au

Two Good Co and Jac + Jack’s special-edition blankets

Two Good Co and Jac + Jack have released two special-edition quilted blankets, in Grey/Rust and White/Lilac. For every one purchased, another will go to a women’s shelter; $380.

twogood.com.au

Wine tasting at Giant Steps

Sample the latest vintage at Giant Steps’ newly reimagined tasting room, with interiors inspired by the natural beauty of the Yarra Valley and brought to life by Fiona Lynch Office. A 45-minute Essential Giant Steps tasting is $25 per person.

giantstepswine.com.au

July launches luxe new travel totes

Merivale’s newly opened JAM Record Bar in the Sydney CBD has pink plywood walls and Tokyo-inspired interiors that nod to the Japanese-inspired menu. On the playlist are 15,000 vinyls from every era.

merivale.com

New sustainably-minded brand, ODEN

A shout-out for new sustainable furniture brand ODEN, which hails from Melbourne. The first release includes the flexible Balder modular collection (above), priced from $3212.

odendesign.com.au

Get cosy with Armadillo

Like its namesake lizard, Armadillo produces rugs that have a pleasing tactile quality and blend in with almost any style. The B Corp-certified rug company (Australia’s first) is a female-led operation producing high-quality, natural-fibre rugs according to the principles of slow design. Eden wool rug in Citrine, from $3100.

armadillo-co.com

Le Sac’s stylish gardening belt

Keep your trowels, hoes and pruning shears within easy reach in this stylish gardening belt from Le Sac. Created by gardeners for gardeners, the Le Sac gardening belt is made from reinforced cotton canvas and has plenty of room for all your essentials. Available in three chic colourways for $75.95 each.

shoplesac.com

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This simple lighting addition will make a world of difference in any bedroom

Hommey has officially taken over the entire home with its new bedding range 

The top pieces we adore from this new texture-filled range from RJ Living

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The post The Cut: what’s inspiring Inside Out’s editor at the moment appeared first on Homes To Love.

Style of home: A five-bedroom 1930s house on 1000 square metres.

Location: Melbourne’s Malvern, the traditional land of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Bunurong people.

Timeline: The interior took nine months, and the landscaping another six. Work was finished by December 2022.

After growing up in the UK, Cecilia Rosenberg had a love for old buildings. She always knew she didn’t want to raise her family in a brand new home, but rather a house that had some history. So, when she and husband Zac stumbled across a 100-year-old house in Victoria’s Malvern that hadn’t been touched for 50 years, they knew it was for them.

“We’d been looking to move for about two years,” says Cecilia. “Then, we saw this house, which was all higgledy-piggledy inside and had a massive oak tree in the garden. It felt so charming, we knew it was the right place for us. We saw it on a Wednesday and had bought it by the Friday.”

Although they knew the house would need some updating, they wanted to maintain the feel of the original property. “We didn’t want to rush into doing anything until we knew how the house felt,” Cecilia explains. “But we had the plumber and the sparky on speed dial when we first moved in!”

The family lived in the house for two years before they started any renovation work. It wasn’t until Cecilia met the team from interior-design company Sanders & King that they pressed ‘go’ on the job. “I knew we’d work really well together,” she says. “Their suggestions around the colours, textures and furnishings were all on the same wavelength as me. The brief wasn’t tight – really it was to improve the flow of the rooms, and update the place without losing its charm.”

While nothing major was done to the structure of the house, there were some interesting finds as they moved walls and landscaped outside. “Lots of the pipes and drains were the original ones from the 1910s and they had tree roots in them,” says Cecilia. “I suspect that the oak tree in the garden is actually holding up the house!”

The big windows and natural light throughout allowed Cecilia and the design team to use strong colours in some rooms. “We wanted to keep some of the house’s original 1910s to 1920s aesthetic,” she says. “To do that, we kept to a more traditional colour palette and decided we wouldn’t be afraid of using colour.

There’s an intuitive flow to the house; the mud room is quite dark, and the staircase is dark. But because the house is very light, even on a grey day, it’s not overbearing.”

Where possible, they kept the original windows with their beautiful beading, but painted the frames black so they were in keeping with the new ironwork around the house. “This makes it really cohesive and ties everything together.”

The marble in various rooms does the same thing, as the kitchen bench, fireplace, powder-room vanity and marble-lined arch in the main bathroom all feature the same material. “We also have a few marble coffee tables,” Cecilia points out.

The pale pink cabinetry in the bathroom is designed to bring out some of the hues in the marble. “I was overseas when the cabinetry was installed. Zac called me and said, ‘Is our bathroom pink?’” laughs Cecilia. “This room was originally really dark and dingy, so the pale pink really lightens and softens the space.”

The kitchen also offers a splash of colour, courtesy of the Lacanche range in a blue called Vert Silice. “Once we’d decided on the oven, everything else in the kitchen fell into place,” says Cecilia. “The other thing that was important to me was not having the sink on the bench; I think that spoils the flow. Everything else needed to be fluid, light and practical.”

Despite the age of the property, the renovation went smoothly. “We were prepared for things to come up, and couldn’t believe it when we discovered there was no dry rot or termites,” Cecilia admits. “The biggest issue we had was when one of the landscapers fell into a hole and broke a pipe, which caused a leak in the spa.”

Now the house is complete, Cecilia and her family believe the longer they live in it, the better it will get. “It’s definitely our forever home,” she says. “There’s somewhere for everyone to be. The kids love it, and I like being able to eyeball their friends as they walk through the house to the games room.”

For Cecilia, the best part of the house is its small imperfections. “The walls aren’t straight, which means some of the joinery has funny little gaps,” she says. “The fact that it isn’t perfect just adds to the charm.”

Lessons learnt

“The power of paint and how important it is,” Elissa King, interior designer. “We often forget how powerful a change of paint colour can be. It has the ability to add drama, create a delineation and even alter the perception of the size of a room. As a medium, paint is cost-effective in creating instant change and effect. The quality of the painting is crucial to the overall success of a project. So often, a lot of time and care is taken with the initial trades, but the final trades, such as painting, are rushed through and often the cheapest quote is accepted. Time and care must be taken with the finishing trades as that’s what the eye first sees at the completion of the project.”

Sanders & King is at sandersandking.com.au and @sandersandking. Landscaping by Eckersley Garden Architecture at e-ga.com.au

See more renovated 1930s homes

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01:19

A 1930s weatherboard cottage renovation that straddles old and new

A 1930s family home renewed with a minimal Scandi renovation

This 1930s Spanish Mission bungalow received a Greek-style reimagining

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The post A loose brief and respectful approach gently transformed this 1930s charmer appeared first on Homes To Love.

Thankyou is setting a new standard in home cleaning with its latest release. After two years of dedicated collaboration with leading product developers worldwide, Thankyou is proudly introducing a line of sustainable home cleaning products. This pioneering range not only prioritises sustainability but also delivers unparalleled quality and performance. 

Sustainable cleaning that delivers results

If you’ve tried sustainable products to do your bit to help the planet but were disappointed with the results, it’s time to take another look. Never satisfied with ‘good enough’, Thankyou’s team has meticulously engineered a formula that is 100 per cent natural yet provides the cleanliness of a hospital grade disinfectant.

At the heart of the collection is the Universal Cleaner, a versatile solution suitable for a variety of surfaces including glass, tile, and stone. Formulated with an active plant-based lactic acid, this Australian-made powerhouse is certified to eliminate 99.99 per cent of germs while effortlessly tackling grease, stains, and odours without relying on harsh chemicals, making it gentle even on sensitive skin—an exceptional feat in the realm of cleaning products.

Adapts to your cleaning needs

The Universal Cleaner is a fragrance free, chemical-nasty free formulation that is a true household multitasker. Add three parts water to one part formula, and you’ve got a household antibacterial cleaner. Add nine parts water to one part formula, and you’ve got an antibacterial window and floor cleaner to make your surfaces sparkle.

Planet-friendly packaging

Crafted with sustainability at its core, Thankyou’s range features refillable and reusable packaging designed to minimise waste. More than just wearing your eco-credentials on your sleeve, you’ll be proud to display them around your home because their packaging is seriously slick.

The Universal Cleaner comes in sleek refillable white aluminium containers and newly launched, recyclable clear glass bottles. Made from 100 per cent recycled aluminium, the almost infinitely recyclable aluminium Forever Bottle is one of the most sustainable reusable bottles on the market.

That’s not to say their refillable bottles are going anywhere. Thankyou knows not all recycled products are created equal, so they created their refill containers from high–value recyclable natural HDPE, which can be easily recycled in household recycling to further minimise waste.

Find the Thankyou range including the Universal Cleaner, refills, bottles and microfibre cloths at Coles stores nationwide and via Thankyou’s newly launched e-commerce platform.

500ml Universal Cleaner 500ml — $9.95

1L Universal Cleaner Refill — $15.95

3L Universal Cleaner Refill — $39.95

Thankyou Universal Cleaner is a 100 per cent natural cleaner that is also a hospital grade disinfectant, designed to provide you with one cleaning solution for your household clean.

Universal Cleaner Aluminium Forever Bottle — $17.95

Fill this reusable bottle with Thankyou Universal Cleaner Refills. The White Aluminium Forever Bottle is made from 100 per cent recycled aluminium and is built to last.

Universal Cleaner Glass Forever Bottle — $23.95

The Clear Glass Forever Bottle is refillable and recyclable, but given it’s designed to be yours FOREVER, it doesn’t really matter.

Microfibre cloths, 3 pack — $17.95

Thankyou Microfibre Cloths are made from 90 per cent recycled plastic, designed to be used over and over again. Simply wash, dry and repeat.

The Thankyou range:

The post Finally, sustainable household cleaning products that work appeared first on Homes To Love.

Once burdened by a dysfunctional kitchen and dated bathroom, the apartment has found success with cleverly integrated features and contemporary adaptations of its inter-war roots, thanks to an inspired renovation by the team at sustainably-driven interior studio, Brave New Eco.

Here, we highlight the best bits of its design.

1. Checkerboard tiles

Anticipating the day when they downsize from their spacious family home into this one-bedroom South Yarra apartment, Ange and Bruce decided to renovate. It sits on the sunny third floor of a beautiful old building designed by interwar architect Arthur Plaistid and built in 1938. The team at Brave New Eco took on the renovation, keeping some key features, such as the wonderful checkerboard tiles. “They were in perfectly good condition and we quite liked the pattern. It plays well with the glass-brick windows,” says design director Megan Norgate.

2. A pop-out dining table

Before they began, a dining table stood against a blank wall in this space, blocking the walkway in and out of the apartment. This was replaced with a fold-out blackbutt timber table that can be dropped down when not in use. “We made the edge round so the flow isn’t impacted and you don’t feel like you’re walking around the table constantly,” says Megan. It was paired with Pop and Scott ‘Drum’ stools, which are easily scooted out of the way.

The new shelving is made from a timber veneer with a tobacco tint to give it a rich, dark tone. “There was such an opportunity on that wall to get in a whole lot of extra storage space for the kitchen,” says Megan. A rotating black Caravaggio ‘Read’ wall light by Fritz Hansen tucks nicely in here too, swinging out over the dining table when needed.

3. Embracing the imperfect

Quirks are part and parcel with an older home, and this apartment is no exception. “Those solid walls are not necessarily straight and true,” reveals Megan. Yet, rather than fighting against it, they let the building’s not-so-perfect bones be a guide. The splashback tiles, for example, were chosen specifically for their small size and ability to wrap around ‘awkward’ corners and angles.

It’s a bonus that the Nagoya Mosaic-Tile Co ‘Pavone Basketweave’ tiles in a speckled white are also beautiful. They weave in seamlessly with the Art Deco aesthetic that’s reiterated in the brown shade of Dulux How Now on the lower cabinets. The aged-looking Faucet Strommen ‘Pegasi M’ sink mixer in Antique Brass maintains the feeling that this home has been loved for decades.

4. Integrated appliances

The team played with the layout of the kitchen tirelessly, like it was a game of Tetris, until every appliance slotted into place. “We’re not designers who don’t like to show appliances – sometimes we’re happy for them to just be – but this was such a small kitchen, it was nice to have that continuous flow of red-brown cabinetry,” says Megan.

They just managed to get everything in. “To the right of the sink is a 45-centimetre-wide dishwasher,” Megan shares. “There are a couple of companies that make them that small and they’re a great solution.” Even the range hood is built into overhead joinery. As for the fridge, that’s behind the cabinet on the left. Next to that is a nifty niche for a coffee machine, which gets frequently used but is nicely out of sight.

5. A European laundry and original windows

Relocating the fridge meant the Euro laundry could sit in that corner instead. “It was concealing the whole window and the space was a lot darker,” Megan recalls. “This room is north-facing, so when we opened that up, it made the light really lovely.” In went a front-end loader and an assortment of laundry products stashed in the storage space next to it.

The original windows are a particularly charming feature in this apartment. “I think they’re all part of the heritage-protected elements of the property, so you would have to recreate them like for like,” Megan explains. Rightfully so, as was the choice to leave them free of curtains or coverings. “It didn’t feel necessary because there are no privacy issues. You’re right up in the treetops and get some nice breezes.”

6. A clever ledge in the bathroom

The bathroom began as a bit of a logistical puzzle. “It was extremely tight,” says Megan. “It had a small bath with a shower in it. As the owners are going to be retiring here, we wanted something more accessible, but we had to keep the plumbing in the existing locations.”

They swapped the tub for a large shower next to the window, with glass doors “so it feels open”. A nib wall was introduced, extending all the way from the basin around into the shower. “That houses the plumbing,” Megan adds. “It’s a logistical solution, but we made it into a feature.” It’s the perfect place to perch products, toothbrushes and a lush plant.

7. Stucco walls

In the process of reworking the bathroom, the original stucco walls were damaged. “We decided to replace them like for like,” says Megan. “One of my favourite things about this job was working with the amazing plasterers. It’s a really beautiful finish.”

Efforts went into ensuring every detail made sense for the home’s era. TopCer wall tiles in 28 Sage from De Fazio are an exact match to others in the building. The Coco Flip ‘Honey’ wall light and cabinet colour Dulux Deep Aqua are also period-appropriate.

Brave New Eco is at braveneweco.com.au and @braveneweco

See inside more sustainble homes

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01:47

A 1910s eco-friendly beach house designed for future-proof living

A Melbourne bungalow was transformed with an eco-friendly renovation

A double-fronted Edwardian in Brunswick was given a sustainable revamp

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The post Sensitive adaptation and clever integration brought this inter-war apartment up to scratch appeared first on Homes To Love.

Style of home: A bland brick 1990s home that’s now a vision of organic Japanese-style calm.

Location: Blackwood in Victoria, on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung, Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung people.

Timeline: Ten months of planning kicked off in early 2022, followed by a four-month renovation.

Over many catch-ups, interior designer Caitlin Perry of Setsquare Studio and graphic designer Miriam McWilliam of Studio Mimi Moon reimagined Miriam’s 1990s-era brick home in Blackwood, an hour north-west of Melbourne. The creative friends and neighbours are relative newcomers to the pristine area sandwiched between the Wombat State Forest and Lerderderg State Park, with Caitlin arriving five years ago and Miriam, two years later. “I was searching the Blackwood hashtag on Instagram one day and found Miriam,” says Caitlin. “She looked cool and I noticed she was a graphic designer, so I thought there was a chance we could work together as well as become friends.”

In 2022, after collaborating on a branding project, Caitlin and Miriam turned their attention to Miriam’s home, where she lives with her scientist husband, Hamish, and their two children.

The one redeeming feature of the original build – besides its lush garden and proximity to bush trails and creeks – is the prominent timber window trims. The woodwork happily merges into the inviting scheme the design duo concocted, where layered texture and saturated 1970s-inspired colour harmonise with natural finishes, creating an organic feel with echoes of Japanese design. “The hardest part was choosing the timber tones for the joinery and the floor,” says Miriam. “There is a lot of dark timber in Japanese interiors, but we have quite low ceilings and wanted to bring light in, so getting the balance right was tricky.”

After 10 months of design and sourcing, followed by four months of construction by local builder Patrick Rodgers of PR Carpentry, the formerly featureless, light-deprived home now zings with colour and tactility, as well as oodles of character pulled from Miriam’s fun curation of art and vintage pieces.

The two bathrooms are forest-green sanctuaries that evoke the restorative calm of a Japanese bathhouse, and the laundry, tucked behind a linen noren curtain by the kitchen, hums joyfully with earthy apricot tones.

In the reimagined kitchen, sunshine pours into the new skylight and creeps through glass double doors that open onto the alfresco dining area at the rear. “We didn’t want to make big structural changes because it is a solid brick house,” says Caitlin. “Adding the skylight and door in the kitchen were the main architectural things we did, and the rest was pure fit-out and rethinking the layout in a more family-friendly way.”

Miriam initially thought a roomy back extension was required, but then changed her mind. “Hamish and I realised we didn’t need the extra space after we went away on a long family trip in our vintage caravan,” she shares. “I saw just how effective a small space can be with clever design. The dining nook, which has garden views, is a prime example of this space-savvy approach. By removing a built in cupboard with outward-opening doors and adding a wide cushioned bench seat with storage, Miriam and Caitlin have created a multipurpose corner for dining and more.

Meals also occur at the kitchen bench, where secondhand timber bar stools found on Facebook Marketplace add worn texture to the clean-lined joinery in black laminate and walnut veneer. Sprinkling in Miriam’s requested “hint of luxe”, the bronze splashback tile dances with the light and morphs from gold to deep olive as the day progresses. “The splashback was the only thing Hamish wasn’t sure about, wondering whether it would be too blingy and intense,” says Caitlin. “But it’s not a Las Vegas gold at all. It has a real depth to it.”

Throughout the renovation, Miriam and Caitlin cemented their friendship and respect for each other’s expertise. “As a graphic designer, Miriam has such a wonderful eye for colour, and this project was about bringing that in,” says Caitlin. Meanwhile, Miriam was fascinated by her co-worker’s 3D modelling skills and critical knowledge of spatial planning.

“The project is a really beautiful example of how graphic design and interiors meld. It was a really nice test of colour, composition and art, and now I get to live in the creation,” says Miriam, with Caitlin chiming in, “And I get to visit!”

Lessons learnt

Miriam searched tirelessly for a paint and grout colour to match the bathroom’s green mosaic tiles imported from Japan. After the grout was applied to two walls and dried lighter than specified, neither she nor Caitlin were going to let it pass. “We wanted it to be a subtle all-over green and not an intense grid,” Miriam says. “In the end, we got the grout supplier to come and see the space, and they realised it was actually a defect in the batch. The builder had to paint a sealant over every grout line to darken it and that delayed us by about a week. I was having grout-mares!”

See Setsquare Studio at setsquarestudio.com and Studio Mimi Moon at studiomimimoon.com

See more Japanese-inspired homes

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01:00

Dual native-filled courtyards form the centrepiece of this new Japanese-style build

A timber-clad Melbourne home with a Japanese aesthetic

01:47

A renovated beach cabin that blends Scandi, Japanese and 70s style

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The post A creative duo transformed this tired brick bungalow into a colour-drenched, Japanese-inspired haven appeared first on Homes To Love.

The rule, according to Taylor, suggests that inserting something red – big or small – into a room where it otherwise wouldn’t belong, can instantly elevate a space. Arguably, this classic design device has always existed, yet its popular embrace is also part of a wider shift away from white-on-white interiors in favour of homes that celebrate colour and personality, where more is more and less is a bore!

From mood-boosting saturation to punchy pairings, we show how to embrace this firey trend at home.

How to use red in your interiors

Treat red as a new neutral

From splashes of ruby with salmon pink to soft rinses of peach visually spiked with bursts of raspberry, this sweet colour combination is a match made in chromatic heaven, with more creatives championing the complementary coupling than ever before. Just ask interior designer Gemma Gillett of Studio Gemma, who’s noticed more designers and consumers leaning into the spicy spectrum. “It’s easy to test the water of a colour when you don’t go all-in (by that, I mean red walls),” she says. “Instead, opt for something more neutral like dirty pink walls, using red as a clashing bolt of colour with furniture or decor.”

Pair it with a contrasting shade

Talk about a winning combination! Blue and red – whether that’s a mix of sky and scarlet, or cornflower and vermilion – have always been a harmonious pair due to the calming visual effect of blue and its ability to take the bite out of red without neutralising its overall impact. In 2024, we are seeing contemporary interpretations of this dreamy duo leaning into more muddy, earthier reds such as brick and burgundy alongside cooler-toned shades like steel and dusty blues.

Our favourite homewares and decor to steal the show

01

Bonnie & Neil boucle thin stripe cushion in Pink

$140.25 (usually $165), RJ Living

Best for: a cosy couch addition

News flash: boucle does not have to be resigned to white and cream, and this playful pink and red cushion by Australian-favourite homewares brand Bonnie and Neil is proof. At 60 x 40cm, it’s a piece large enough for both your sofa or atop your bed.

Key features:

• 60 x 40cm
• 100% recycled PET
• Includes plush feather insert

Shop Now

02

Kip & Co Sweetheart speckle tumbler glasses

$49, The Iconic

Best for: a subtle tabletop pop

Fluted and handmade, Kip & Co’s speckle tumblers are sweet by name and nature. Their subtle, softened red hue will add just the right amount of spice to your next dinner party or table setting.

Sizes: Tumbler glass, Coupe glass

Key features:

• 100% handmade blown glassware
• Comes as a set of 2
• 280ml capacity

Available at:

• $49 from David Jones

Shop Now

03

Robe in Picnic Stripes

$149, Hommey

Best for: embracing the contrast

Introduce the Unexpected Red Theory to your bathtime ritual with this warm-and-fuzzy robe in a nostalgic thick stripe. Made from 100% cotton, it’s equally suitable for poolside cocktails as it is for combatting a winter post-shower chill.

Sizes: S/M, L/XL

Colours: Picnic Stripes, Milkshake, Bloom Stripes, Charcoal, Margarita Stripes, Cocoa, Bubblegum, Wasabi, Blueberry Stripes, Resort Stripes, Coconut, Blush, Sage, Jelly Stripes, Matcha Stripes, Sky, Sherbert Stripes, Latte, Rocky Road Stripes, Grapefruit Stipres, Lavender, Vanilla Bean Stripes, Sundae Stripes

Key features:

• 100% cotton
• Wide belt
• Machine washable

Shop Now

04

100% French flax linen pillowcases in Paprika

$47.60 (usually $70), Bed Threads

Best for: adding spice to the bedroom

Linen may be butter-soft but these pillowcases are red-hot. One of Bed Thread’s more recent additions to their ever-growing colour palette, Paprika is a shade that looks great as a single pop or an all-out, full-bed commitment.

Colours: Paprika, White, Oatmeal, Oatmeal and White Stripe, Olive Stripe, Olive, Pistachio, Sage, Fog, Mineral, Charcoal, Terracotta, Hazelnut, Tumeric, Limoncello, Rosewater, Lavender, Wildflower, Coast, Petrol, Rust, Pink Clay, Cacao

Key features:

• Fits standard pillow size
• OEKO-TEX® certified 
• Cool machine wash

Shop Now

05

Aligned chenille rug in Rouge

from $260, Double

Best for: red underfoot

Combine the warming powers of a rug underfoot and a rouge tone with this luxurious rug by Double. Although its hue is more stain-friendly than others (read: red wine spills), the Double system means you can remove and wash the top layer, leaving you with a good-as-new rug every time.

Sizes: 70 x 240cm, 70 x 300cm, 160 x 230cm, 200 x 300cm, 300 x 400cm

Colours: Rouge, Bone

Key features:

• Washable top layer
• Non-slip base
• Designed in Australia

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The implementation of new building codes and regulations that focus on achieving higher standards for insulation, energy-efficiency, and climate-responsiveness, including the government’s recent mandate to increase the minimum thermal energy rating (NatHERS) to 7 (out of 10) stars, marks an important step towards Australia’s net zero future.  

So how can the decisions you make about materials and finishes impact your environmental footprint and ensure your home is truly designed for better living?

This simple guide will take you through the ins and outs of creating a more sustainable home that not only treads lightly on the earth it occupies, but provides a comfortable, future-driven solution aimed at upgrading your home’s eco credentials today, for a better tomorrow.

Furnishings and décor

Sofas

Big-ticket items like this should last a lifetime and beyond. To ensure your living room’s hardest-working piece is up to the task, look for features such as durable construction, end-of-life recycling options, removable and washable covers made from life-proof materials, and

timeless profiles that won’t date or need to be discarded like the trend it followed. Companies like E9 Design, Koskela and Jardan (just to name a few) are leading the pack when it comes to their commitment and contribution to the future of sustainable Australian design.   

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Tables and chairs

Material choice, durability and local manufacturing are key to ensuring you’ve purchased a product that treads lightly on the earth. Sustainably sourced timber can be misleading, but looking for companies that adhere to rigorous standards – such as transparent supply chains, manufacturing practices and use of truly renewable sources, like plantation grown timber, can help to cut through the noise when it comes to being more conscious consumers. 

Textiles

Fabrics made from natural fibres, like flax linen, with no harmful chemicals or fillers, should be made to last a lifetime. Brands like Sustainable Living Fabrics offer a range of textiles crafted from Australian wool using a 100% carbon-neutral process, while innovative and ethically minded brands, such as Seljak and Waverley Mills, produce throws and blankets from factory offcuts, dead stock or post-consumer textile waste and can be further recycled, diverting waste from landfill.

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Homewares

By thinking global and acting local, you can ensure you’re investing in quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Consider buying from independent makers and creatives that produce small batch pieces or look for companies that embrace circularity and ethical sourcing as part of their design ethos.

Finishes & Fixtures

Flooring

Choose sustainable flooring

Look for sustainably grown (ideally, plantation sourced) options that have been certified by the FSC and PEFC as well as companies that can provide a transparent end-to-end process that follows strict sustainability best-practice. You’ll also want to avoid products that are manufactured or installed using volatile organic compounds (VOCs) . Options such as engineered timber flooring, which is constructed using multiple thinner planks that results in less wastage, can be refinished and continually repurposed to prolong its lifespan. 

• Concrete: While laying down a concrete slab does have a huge eco footprint, the density of concrete does translate to high thermal mass. Incorporating this flooring option along with passive design principles and carefully designed window placement can remove the need for artificial heating and cooling, helping to lower your carbon footprint, energy-consumption, and power bills, as well as provide all-year comfort and an ideal living situation.
• Carpet: If you’re buying carpet, Search for products made from 100 per cent natural fibres and materials like wool or sisal, created using energy-efficient processes and installed alongside eco-friendly underlay options, with good thermal insulation without VOCs.
• Paint: Look for no- or low-VOC paints to minimise internal air pollution and harmful environmental impact for finishes that are kinder on your lungs and the planet. Brands such as Bauwerk use 100% green power to make eco-friendly paints that can be disposed of in regular household waste, with VOC free or low-VOC options also available through brands such as Resene and Taubmans.
• Lighting: Upgrade your lightbulbs to energy-efficient and longer lasting LEDs for an instant boost to your home’s eco output. Depending on what state you’re in, you might be able to access government rebates or grants to help you with this process.  

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Building & Exteriors

Bricks and timber

For those looking to meet and exceed NatHERS ratings for their new build, bricks offer superior thermal density and climate control when compared to more lightweight offerings. Acting as a thermal battery, absorbing heat during high temperatures and releasing warmth when cooler, brick homes are naturally energy-efficient, providing the ultimate material with which to maximise passive design principles and eliminate reliance on appliance-led climate control.

Timber is one of the most popular and well-performing environmental building materials due to its renewable nature, low embodied energy (which takes into consideration harvesting, transportation and manufacturing), and absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, that remains locked away after processing. For building purposes, recycled timber is the benchmark for sustainability – but not all recycled timbers are equal. Make sure the timber you source is truly recycled, not just reclaimed from low-grade logs. You should be able to gather background information about the timber, including where it came from and how it was recycled.

Roofing

When considering the environmental impact of your roofing option, and how it can achieve overall energy efficiency within the home, it’s important to take into account your roofing system as a whole. Ideally, incorporating a combination of sarking, insulation and ventilation in your project will provide the ultimate roadmap to crafting a thermally efficient home that can also stand up to the elements, lower heating and cooling costs, and provide a quieter, more acoustically sound home.

If opting for a steel product, utilising a lighter, more reflective colour option can maximise the energy-efficiency of your home and contribute to the overall temperate of its surroundings. Not only can clay tiles help to reduce cooling requirements, but their durable nature can also withstand threats from the elements, making them impervious to rust or corrosion.

Insulation and thermal efficiency

Without proper insulation, all your energy-saving wins can quickly become losses. Using a thermal camera to identify gaps and cracks can be a quick fix for your draught woes. Depending on your area, some libraries or councils even have thermal cameras available to loan. After identifying the draughts, you can easily seal them with gap filler, caulking or weather strips for a DIY solution with big impact. If budget permits, retrofitting inefficient windows with draught-proof options and installing exterior blinds on western facing windows can provide a serious boost to your home’s thermal efficiency.     

Electric evolution

Approximately 78% of Australia’s greenhouse emissions come from energy used by machines that burn fossil fuels, and around a quarter of those emissions come from our households via appliances such as gas water heaters, stoves, and gas heating systems. Switching to electric appliances, decommissioning any gas climate control, and swapping to heat pump technology for hot water, are some of the most effective ways we can have a positive climate impact.

Add the installation of solar panels, a home battery and an electric vehicle and your all-electric home could save you over $4000 a year compared to a petrol and gas powered home by 2030. While you’re at it, forget the misconceptions surrounding at-home EV charging. The average 10-amp power point (yes, the same one you plug your phone into) is fully capable of trickle charging an electric vehicle overnight during off-peak demand.

By embracing an all-electric future now, you can play an important role in helping Australia achieve its commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, one spark at a time.   

Volvo is a brand that champions future-driven design with a strong focus on sustainability. The recent launch of the all-electric Volvo EX30 model moves Volvo Car Australia one step closer to only selling fully-electric vehicles by 2026, a feat that Australia Managing Director Stephen Connor says could only be achieved through the country’s proven commitment to an electric future.

“Australian consumers are early adopters of new technologies, and they are embracing fully electric cars in increasing numbers,” Stephen Connor, Managing Director, Volvo.

The post Simple changes to create a more sustainable house appeared first on Homes To Love.

The living room ranks second only to the bedroom when it comes to time spent, but with the added bonus of being able to comfortably share the space with all of your family and friends. As such, ensuring you style and furnish it to perfection is of paramount importance.

The key to nailing your living room is to focus your thoughts on functionality. If you’re watching the television regularly as a family, you’ll want to make sure you have enough seating for every member of the household and then some, and that you’ll be able to watch in comfort from every angle for extended periods of time.

If you’re a regular reader, you may want to think about adding a desk lamp or floor lamp to ensure you’ll be able to comfortably read throughout the night. And, if you have furry friends, you’ll want to make sure your seating options will be able to stand the test of time and claws.

To help you create the perfect space, we’ve pulled together 19 of the best modern living room ideas.

Inside Out’s most popular modern living room ideas

The living room of this renovated Victorian worker’s cottage in Fitzroy enjoys a light-filled outlook and easy functionality provided by floating shelves and built-in joinery.

Not many homes boast a living room as impressive as the one in this renovated 1860s terrace. A built-in sofa gives the illusion of a sunken lounge, playing into the home’s slight mid-century lean and providing the functionality necessary for its narrow footprint.

Mid-century rules in the living area of this retro-cool home in northern Illawarra. A pitched ceiling with exposed timber-toned beams makes the perfect pairing for the velvet lime-hued sofa, which has been covered with cushions in bright tones and playful patterns.

Sophisticated and sleek, the living room of this renewed 1930s Scandi style home is full of clean lines, architectural elements and luxurious finishes. The cedar cladding is offset by the white-face linear bricks, and the entire space is lit by generous almost floor-to-ceiling windows.

The living room of this Queenslander workers’ cottage acts as an extension of the outdoor zone – and vice versa. An off-the-floor coffee table and cut outs in the King Living sofa allow for uninterrupted sightlines to the garden, while the custom console provides plenty of storage.

Adorned with owner Annika’s artefacts and objects from a career in fashion, the living room of this revitalised Federation bungalow in Sydney is brimming with personality. Beyond this standpoint, the lush back garden and outdoor entertaining area opens up via bi-fold doors.

Indoor/outdoor flow, clever use of materiality, relaxed plush furniture and a timeless palette are the elements at play in this contemporary family house in Torquay. The Tasmanian oak timber-batten ceilings, a striking design feature, indulge owner Jane’s love of 1960s architecture and are an element that tie this room to other zones in the home.

Interior designer Melissa Bonney of The Designory sought to create the ultimate holiday home in Byron Bay and the end result is stunning. Subtle green hues are layered in this living room space to reference the Barefoot Bay Villa’s stunning natural surrounds.

This mid-century modern stone cottage in the Adelaide hills was lovingly revamped, with the exposed stone feature wall in the living room becoming a central highlight. Drawing colour cues from the stone wall, a tan leather sofa is paired with soft blue cushions for contrast.

Interior designer Kristy McGregor injected her own version of coastal cool in her renovated Bondi abode and the end result is stunning. Seeking to maximise the natural light that enters from the kitchen, a circular mirror acts as both a visual feature and light amplifier.

Tasked with transforming this Sydney home into an entertainer’s dream with a modern rustic aesthetic, interior designer Jillian Dinkel added her signature style to the abode. In the living room exposed brick walls and the vaulted ceiling were painted white, with the trusses painted pitch black for a dramatic touch.

In the renovation of her Federation-style home, interior designer Jillian Dinkel painted the window trims throughout the home in Dulux Blue Metal. In the living room, the Samsung The Frame television takes pride of place over the original fireplace mantle.

This modern home in Booker Bay makes the most of its stunning natural views, and who can blame it? In the living room generous windows make sure you can see the water from almost every angle.

While her Sydney apartment maybe have been on the smaller side, interior designer Sophie Bowers of Strutt Studios pulled no punches when it came to transforming her abode. In the living room a statement rug clearly zones the living zone where a plush grey sofa is paired with a black leather armchair.

In the renovation of this Daylesford cottage, interior designer Suzanne Cunningham sought to retain its relaxed country feel in order to create the perfect weekender. In the living room a rich mix of textures from the brown leather sofa to the billowing curtains add a soft touch.

Seeking to create a dramatic feature in the living room of this fibro cottage, the fireplace is painted in a dark charcoal that pops against the stark white interiors that run throughout the home. A dark rug centers the living space and adds a warm contrast to the concrete flooring.

In the second living room of this nature-inspired home in Riverview a more relaxed approach to design and furnishing was taken. A built-in leather couch is the perfect place to lounge, and a built-in sideboard provides ample storage space.

In Alisa and Lysandra’s renovated heritage home in Melbourne the dynamic duo opted for ceiling to floor steel-framed glass doors for dramatic effect and to create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

It may be small, but this Queensland pool house has been transformed into the ultimate holiday stay. The compact living room is subtly zoned with a tactile rug and a vivid green velvet sofa is the centre of attention.

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and Coco Pops, a Burmese.

Style of home: A 1970s Spanish mission/Mediterranean-style home in a northern Sydney suburb with a reserve nearby.

Timeline: The family bought the house in September 2013 and engaged MCK Architects in February 2016. They moved out in April 2017 so the renovation could start, and were back in by December 2019.

When Angela and Tristan O’Connell first conjured the ‘holiday at home’ brief for their beloved house in Sydney, they could never have anticipated that just months after their renovation was complete, a pandemic lockdown would turn the seasoned travellers into full-time guests of their own abode.

Located on the shores of Middle Harbour, in a bush-lined suburb developed by architect Walter Burley Griffin (who built houses following the contours of each site and using natural stone), the 1970s home first won the couple’s hearts in 2013.

This bush-nestled home brings European-style resort living to Sydney’s Castlecrag, and it has just hit the market. Spanning four bedrooms, two bathrooms and some very impressive outdoor entertaining spaces, the home is set to go to auction on Saturday 22nd June 2024. The price is undisclosed, however the median for Middle Harbour is $4.059 million for a four bedroom home.

You can see the listing on domain.com.au.

On the market

“Every time we went to inspect it, the sun was out and the water was sparkling,” recalls Angela. “We fell in love with the view and the style – the design of the house was very Mediterranean and had such a soothing feel to it.”

Impressed by the soft architectural arches and rich northeasterly light, the couple secured their slice of paradise.

After they had lived there for a few years, however, some of the building’s design flaws became apparent. Most pressing of all were the dampness and mould on the lower level, which was built into rock.

So, in 2016, they engaged Mark Cashman of MCK Architecture to fix these issues while preserving the integrity of the original space.

The couple also enlisted the help of interior designer Bronwyn Poole (who then moved to California) and Mina Staples, who completed the project.

“Having an interior designer work alongside your architect is a great way to ensure your house is full of texture and colour and that it works for your family and their needs,” says Angela.

“Our main design intention was for a serene yet playful, whimsical family home that wasn’t too precious. We wanted the spaces to flow from the inside out, with the curves throughout to take you on a journey.”

In line with that, international influences are everywhere, as places for entertaining and relaxation have been thoughtfully designed to evoke memories of the family’s pre-pandemic travels.

Two notable examples are the impressive Tadelakt ensuite bathroom (just like a palatial Turkish bathhouse) and the tropical poolside ‘cabana’, inspired by a trip to India.

“One of my requests was for a room that felt like a pool cabana, with massive arched steel doors,” says Angela. “It can seat 20 people along the banquette and on lounges, so it’s a great space for hosting parties. It’s become our favourite room to entertain in, because of its versatility. One minute, the kids have built an enormous cubby-house fort in there, and the next day they’re rearranging the lounges for a massive sleepover.”

Play spaces abound in this house, and include two large balconies and newly created gardens.

“Originally, there was no yard at all,” says Angela.

“The front was just a long, incredibly steep driveway and completely unusable. Our brief to Garden Life was to retain the front to create spaces that could be used. They designed three tiers and various seats, as well as an area for Ryan to skateboard on.”

Retaining the front yard meant that a huge storage room could be built underneath, into the side of the hill.

“The roof has a beautifully landscaped garden bed, so you wouldn’t even know it was there. Ryan calls it his ‘workshop’ and has added a desk for his growing number of tools and hot glue gun. He’s always in there experimenting with something!”

As in each of the gathering spaces, the furniture is hard-working and versatile to accommodate the family’s busy social life.

The cabana’s sofa is a shining light because it can withstand chlorine and dirt, and be reconfigured for various guest lists. But sometimes the house itself is the star attraction.

Like an architectural wonder of the world in miniature, the renovated structure and its distinctive curves and arches have become a standout on the street. “It really is a work of art,” says Angela.

“We see people stopping and taking photos all the time. And if we are in the front when someone walks past, they always stop and give huge compliments.”

The post This stunning travel-inspired home on Sydney’s Lower North Shore is for sale appeared first on Homes To Love.

If the thought of the new season alone makes a chill run up your spine, you’re probably thinking it might be time to install a fancy new fireplace or heater while also cringing at the thought of your potentially gargantuan electricity bills.

Before you take the plunge and spend a fortune on home heating, try a few of our favourite top ideas for keeping your house warm throughout the cooler months. From covering up cold floors with rugs and making sure your window coverings actually keeping the heat in, preparing your home for winter involves much more than rushing out to buy another heater or electric blanket.

Cover your windows

Step one: stop the heat from escaping by investing in lined curtains or blinds to help insulate your windows, effectively trapping heat inside. If you already have curtains, you can simply add your own lining to the inside or double them up.

For maximum effectiveness, make sure your curtains reach the floor and consider a pelmet to cover the space between the window and the curtain. The same goes for blinds. It’s important that they fully cover the width and height of your windows to avoid heat slipping through the cracks.

Honeycomb blinds are fantastic choice if you want to keep heat in without blocking out natural light. With superior insulation properties and proven to reduce heating costs, the unique honeycomb structure of Luxaflex® Duette® Shades traps air to keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Let the sun in

When that winter chill starts to come through, it can be tempting to keep your home shut up all day; but by opening your curtains, blinds or shutters during the day, you’ll allow sunlight to warm the rooms naturally. Of course, on the flip side you should plan to shut the curtains or blinds at night to keep the heat in.

Create smaller zones to heat

Shut the doors to rooms that aren’t being used. It might seem obvious, but we often forget to do it, which doesn’t allow the heating to work efficiently in the space that’s actually in use. For large, open-plan spaces, you could consider using curtains to create zones.

Maintain your heater

Heaters can be an investment, so like any budget-busting appliance, it pays to take care of them. Clean any filters regularly, and get your heater professionally serviced at least once every two years. This will ensure your heater is working efficiently and safely.

Double glaze your windows

Yes, it’s an expensive option, but usually well worth it in the long run. Double-glazing your windows improves heat retention, helps keep your house cool during summer and can block out street noise.

It’s possible to apply double glazed panels using magnets if you’re renting or not up for a complete change.

Add a floor rug

Floors can account for up to 10 per cent of heat loss – so if yours are bare, invest in some warm rugs to keep the heat in. Of course, it also pays to have a couple of warm blankets and throws on hand at all times, too!

Block your wall vents

Sometimes you need wall vents in spaces that are often hot or steamy (bathrooms, kitchens and laundries) and in rooms that have open fires or unflued gas heaters. But apart from that? They’re just letting in cold air.

Use your fan’s winter setting

Do your ceiling fans have a “winter setting”? This setting allows the fan to be reversed, so that it moves clockwise (rather than anti-clockwise). Heat rises, so a clockwise-spinning fan pushes the heat back down into your room. Try it on a low speed at first.

Layer, layer, layer

Many of us try to heat large spaces, which is inefficient and expensive. Try heating the person, not the house. If everyone in the house is warm, the house itself doesn’t need to be. Invest in warm slippers, robes and pyjamas. Get an oversize fleece for nights on the couch. Spend a little more for a bedspread or winter quilt that retains warmth. These little luxuries will keep you considerably warmer for less.

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Four (yes, four) customised ovens, slideable track lighting for flexibility and three dishwashers render her kitchen more than capable of handling the charcuterie and Chablis that are consumed within when she puts on a spread for guests.

Here, Karen Martini talks us through what she loves about her kitchen design.

Karen Martini is transforming her St Kilda restaurant ‘Saint George’ into ‘The Kindness Kitchen’ for one day only on Thursday 6 June, 2024

In collaboration with Chobani and Foodbank, Karen will be hosting an unforgettable dining experience in her Melbourne restaurant to raise awareness and funds for Australians who don’t know where their next meal is coming from.

Guests will be treated to a culinary feast curated by Karen, as well as a bespoke dessert recipe using one of two limited time only flavours of Chobani yoghurt created in collaboration with Foodbank. All proceeds of the sales and the event will go to Foodbank; each limited edition tub purchased from Woolworths will equal 6 meals donated to those who need it most via Foodbank’s fruit and vegetable programs.

“Our special Kindness Kitchen menu will feature delicious seasonal local ingredients, featuring an exclusive dessert inspired by the Chobani x Foodbank yogurt, which is what both my cooking and our restaurant is all about,” says Karen.

Purchase your ticket for just $7.90 here: The Kindness Kitchen by Karen Martini.

The Kindness Kitchen

What appliances did you choose for this kitchen?

It was always a dream of mine to have a Wolf oven and stove. All the appliances here are Wolf. We have a double oven with gas burners, an iron flat top and grill. It’s all modular, so if you are talking to Wolf directly, as I was, you can mix and match to suit your needs. I also have a combination oven (convection and steam) and an induction top with three burners. Both convection ovens are about 120cm wide. Well worth it for me as I do a lot of baking, testing and cooking out of this kitchen. We have two large built-in Sub-Zero fridges. One is all fridge, and the other is a fridge and freezer. We also have a wine fridge in the butler’s pantry and an ice machine.

How do you use the four ovens?

We have two lower convection ovens under the cooktop range, but then also the combination convection and steam, which is an in-wall oven that I have below the main bench. You can put it up higher, but when we were designing the kitchen we decided that we didn’t want any above-bench shelving, so the line of the kitchen was all waist height and below. I’ve done minimal baking in the combination convection and steam oven. I’ve steamed whole legs of lamb in it and then roasted them. I’ve made dumplings and steamed vegetables and rice. It is a beautiful appliance, but it isn’t second nature to me… it doesn’t come naturally.

Was there anything brought over from your time working in commercial kitchens?

We have three dishwashers in our kitchen: a large Siemens dishwasher for all the heavy-duty pots and pans, and then two Fisher & Paykels with drawers that are going constantly. We talked about having one of those whizbang amazing glass washers that do a 90-second wash. We probably should have installed it in the butler’s pantry, but just couldn’t stretch to it then and are still thinking about installing one, mainly because we do a lot of entertaining.

What about your lighting, storage and material choices?

We have track lighting, where we can slide the lamp anywhere we like, even change the angle. We couldn’t pinpoint the lighting prior to having the kitchen done, because it’s very difficult to work out where you’ll spend most of your time working – although I do know it’s the triangle between the stove and the main benchtop. I would never do fixed lighting in the ceiling now because we like the flexibility. For storage, everything is under the counters; it’s all drawers, with cupboards on the front side of the main service bench. The main bench also has four seats on the end, which was important for bench entertaining and because it is the heart of the house. Everyone gravitates here; no matter which door they come in, they all end up here. Our bench height is higher than the average bench – it sits just above my waist. I also increased the width of the space between the benches because we had the space and I didn’t want it to be a tight shuffle. And really, you need a place to dance and spin! But at no stage was I going to put a sink in the main bench area. I really am opposed to looking into a sink when entertaining. Guests don’t want to see you spraying down a chopping board, so we have a double sink in the back. I also think waste and rubbish in the kitchen is important, because you want to recycle and have a green waste. It is something that people just forget about and put under the kitchen sink, but it’s nowhere near enough room. When you think about the room you might need, I suggest doubling it.

What does entertaining look like at your place?

Usually a bit of charcuterie, a few pickles, anchovy on toast or a shucked oyster here and there… a quick glass of Chablis or a minerally white, then there could be something off the barbecue if the weather is even slightly warm. We will barbecue at the drop of a hat. We like cooking over flames and do start a proper fire, though we don’t have a gas barbecue yet and probably will have a mix when we put one in. You can’t beat that flavour.

Favourite kitchen essentials?

Good pans and a microplane. You need to invest in a couple of different sizes of pans because you can’t cook everything in a two-litre pot. A deep frypan is handy, and always buy bigger. Things burn in a small pot because they are piled on top of each other and the base cooks too fast. The microplane is just one of those great inventions. It grates things finely, and you can use it to make dishes like a quick tahini sauce: just grab a clove of garlic and a cup of plain yoghurt and grate the garlic straight onto the yoghurt with salt and pepper and oil and two tablespoons of tahini. It makes the best garlic sauce ever.

Were the recipes for your new book tested in here?

This kitchen has worked hard. It tested this book, and the two before that. We also shot the book here, plus we film TV as well. We can control the lighting, so it always has a bright airy feel. It is a working kitchen and great for entertaining.

One thing you’d change in this dream working kitchen?

I’d die for that 90-second washer!

The post Inside chef and TV presenter Karen Martini’s ultra-functional kitchen appeared first on Homes To Love.

Style of home: A creatively reimagined Victorian workers’ cottage that demonstrates small can indeed be mighty.

Location: Melbourne’s inner south-east, on land that was traditionally owned by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people.

Renovation: Works took three years from design to completion in November 2021.

Eve Wilson knows just how intoxicating the world of architecture and design can be. As one of Australia’s leading interior photographers, she has captured the unique beauty that lies within so many old or new homes, and in those that deftly straddle the decades between, and found herself smitten time and again.

“I can’t tell you the number of occasions when I’ve gone into a house and thought, ‘Ooh, I love this style! Maybe I do have a country-coastal vibe in me! Or perhaps I should be living in a New York loft-style apartment?” Eve reveals, laughing.

So, when it came to deciding on the aesthetic for her own family’s latest home – a tiny and somewhat dilapidated worker’s cottage in the Melbourne suburb of Cremorne – Eve’s next confession is understandable. She simply didn’t know where to begin. It was a case of inspiration overload for the photographer. “Seeing the passion people put into their homes can be overwhelming,” she concedes. “I just love them all!”

What she was sure about, however, were a few things she did and didn’t want. Out were white plaster walls and in was glorious texture. Also high on the wishlist for Eve, her husband, Jon, and their two daughters was the necessity to make the most of every inch of space on the 144-square-metre site.

In addition, the couple were confident that the family would immediately feel at home in the neighbourhood – because they’d been living in the house next door when opportunity came knocking in 2017. “We knew what we were getting into in terms of the area,” she says. “The previous owner bought this home from his sister in 1948 for $600, and it hadn’t been touched since the 1950s, when it underwent a minor renovation. It was basic but next to a northern laneway, which brings so much light into the home. “This house is even narrower than the one we’d been living in next door – it’s just 4.27-metres wide. But we knew if we engaged the right architect, we could make it into something very interesting.”

Handing over the reins to architect Melissa Bright of Studio Bright, which also took charge of the interiors and landscaping, Eve and Jon were certain they were in expert hands. “It was a very smooth and easy fit,” Eve says. Melissa adds: “With a full house brief and no space, the need to build hard on boundaries and project the plan upward was a challenging necessity.”

Together with building company Frank, the ambitious vision was realised. The original cottage, containing two bedrooms, a study and a bathroom, now provides little clue to the design delights that unfold beyond. Opening to a central courtyard, an airy extension clad in a distinctive breeze block ‘outer skin’ showcases dual connected buildings that house the beautiful marble-offcut tiled kitchen and core living domains on ground level, and the sublime main bedroom above.

In every zone, Studio Bright has incorporated space-saving built-in storage and furniture, while interior designer Andy Moore of Studio Moore helped the couple select freestanding forever pieces from Australian makers such as Jardan and Made by Morgen. Truly bringing the home to vivid life is the harmonious use of saturated colour. Shades of eucalyptus and olive green were employed to evocative effect in everything from bespoke joinery throughout the house to the tiled kitchen benchtops and steel staircase. Meanwhile, blush hues pack a rosy punch in the couple’s ensuite as well as the custom-tinted breeze blocks, which draw light in while screening for privacy.

Foliage, too, is ever present, creating the sense of a calming oasis that belies the cottage’s inner-urban setting. “At every opportunity, lush greenery is introduced in small pockets of planted area that, in total, seek to offer verdant backyard surroundings where none are possible,” says Melissa, adding that, over time, the home will “become increasingly attached to and embedded in nature”.

As for photographing her own house, it was certainly a memorable shoot for the experienced snapper. “This was probably the most stressful job I’ve ever done – and I never get stressed about shoots,” laughs Eve. “But it was lovely to capture what I see in real life every day. That was very special.”

Lessons learnt

“Bigger is not always better,” Eve says. “Living in a small house means you don’t tend to buy or hold onto items that aren’t necessary. That does simplify life though. It also takes us hardly any time to clean the house, as we do have to be tidier, and everything has its spot.”

Eve Wilson is at @evegwilson. Studio Bright is at studiobright.com.au and @studio__bright. Frank is at frank.net.au

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Do away with the frantic last-minute search and get ready to embrace your soon-to-be golden child status with our curated round-up of thoughtful, unique and seriously stylish gift ideas for every type of mother figure in your life – and while you’re at it, why not add on a treat or two for yourself?  

The best gifts for mum to shop in 2024

01

Crosley Voyager Bluetooth portable turntable in Sage

$199.95, Hardtofind

Best for: The life of the party

If every get-together turns into a late-night dance party, or if Sundays at home are accompanied by the melodies of your mother’s favourite playlist blasting from the speakers, then you’ll be hard pressed to find a better gift for mum than this vintage-inspired turntable. Take a trip down memory lane with her record of choice or use Bluetooth to wirelessly connect to your chosen device.

Colours: Sage, Dune, Tan, Black, and Amethyst

Key features:

• Plays 3–Speeds – 33 1/3, 45 & 78 RPM
• Built-in Bluetooth Receiver and Transmitter
• Portable turntable

Available at:

• $199.95 from The Iconic
• $199 from David Jones
• $199 from Temple & Webster

Shop now

02

Fine Day ‘Cloud’ slippers in Almond

$110, The Iconic

Best for: The mum who needs to put her feet up

Who says traditional Mother’s Day gifts have to be boring? There’s nothing basic about this cozy pair of slippers. Plus, with a rubber sole, these fluffy feet warmers are not only soft enough to wear inside, but perfectly equipped to transport you to the local coffee shop in total comfort and style.

Colours: Almond, Coal, Nude, Chai, Sand, Peach, Citrus, Olive, and Apple

Material: Australian Sheepskin

Key features:

• Made in Australia
• Rubber sole for indoor/outdoor wear
• Made with curly Australian Sheepskin both inside and outside

Available at:

• $110 from David Jones

Shop now

03

The French Press coffee plunger in Lapis Blue

$130, Hardtofind

Best for: The mum who looks forward to her morning ritual

Coffee with an added dose of dopamine? Yes please! For a fun twist on a classic kitchen essential, you can’t go past this bright brewer for guaranteed satisfaction when it comes to your morning sip. Plus, with its 850ml capacity, you can be sure there’s plenty to go around if she feels like sharing – but we’re willing to bet she’ll want to keep this to herself.

Colours: Lapis Blue and Smokey Grey

Materials: Heat-proof borosilicate glass body and lid, with fine mesh steel filter and steel coated top

Key features:

• Perfect for both loose leaf tea and coffee
• Sheer finish to make it easy to see the liquid inside
• 850ml capacity
• Handblown glassware

Shop Now

04

Petit Four cocktail napkins in Sky and Caramel

$119, David Jones

Best for: The entertainer

A cocktail party staple, this fun napkin set from chic homewares brand Maison Balzac is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Let her know you appreciate her attention to detail and curated aesthetic with a round of applause from these feathery soft table toppers.

Colours: Sky/Caramel, and Ink/Coral

Materials: 100% European Flax Linen

Key features:

• Inspired by Jean Cocteau and the Ballets Russes of Paris
• 100% OKEO-TEX certified and produced with green energy certified methods
• Comes in a set of four
• Stonewashed for softness
• Finished with satin stich embroidery

Shop Now

05

Tina House embroidery kit in Beautiful Scenery

$28.99, Hardtofind

Best for: The creative type

If you’re looking for a gift as unique as the mother figure in your life, why not try something that will encourage her to tune out and tap into her creative side? This beginner-friendly embroidery kit hits all the mindfulness markers and then some, with a variety of aesthetically pleasing designs (no Live, Laugh, Love in sight!) and difficulty levels to choose from.

Key features:

• Suitable for beginners
• Comes with 20cm diameter embroidery hoop, illustrated linen fabric, two embroidery needles, and one set of cotton threads
• Easy to complete in a weekend
• Comes with access to a step-by-step video

Shop Now

06

WelleCo ‘The Evening Elixr’ chocolate drink

$55, Myer

Best for: The wellness warrior

What better way to make up for the years of sleepless nights your mum endured over the years than with a sweet after-dinner treat that promises the gift of better skin, sleep and overall health. Containing all the sleep inducing tried and tested ingredients, like magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin B3, shitake mushroom and a botanical sleep blend, there’s never been a more delicious way to end her day. We’ll take two! After all, is there a better gift for mum than a solid night’s sleep?

Key features:

• A naturally sweetened blend of magnesium, passionflower, chamomile and lavender
• Can be mixed with milk or water
• Made with organic cocoa and raw cocoa
• 150g
• Vegan, gluten-free, soy-free and dairy-free

Available at:

• $55 from Adore Beauty
• $55 from David Jones

Shop Now

07

Fergie Tall gumboots in Beetroot Red

$199.95, Merry People

Best for: The green thumb with an edge

If her idea of a good time is getting her hands dirty in the garden or working on a 12-month planting schedule over a cup of tea in the morning, but she’s already collected every gardening tool in existence, then we’ve got you covered with this guaranteed hit for the outdoorswoman in your life. This gumboot is high on style, with a chic lean profile and a chunkier heel that’ll take you from garden, to garden party, with the flick of an apron. The tallest style from cult shoe brand Merry People, the Fergie Tall gumboot is a must-have addition for anyone looking to up their outdoor accessory game. Just try stopping at one pair.

Colours: Beetroot Red and Black

Materials: 100% Waterproof Rubber

Key features:

• Designed for maximum arch support
• 100% vegan
• Lined with super soft and flexible neoprene inner
• Adjustable calf strap and calf gusset

Shop Now

08

Kin North ‘Home’ Japanese incense with holder

$87, Hardtofind

Best for: The mum who needs to slow down

If your mother is the type to always be on-the-go, then encourage a little bit of R&R by way of a revitalising ritual like the lighting of incense to bring some peace to her packed schedule. Designed to savour in solitude, or lift the spirits, this luxury incense set comes with everything she needs to switch off and step away from the chaos of the day. The unique scent is a blend of cedar, nutmeg, cinnamon, vetiver and baked fruit, meticulously blended by a third generation incense maker to spark a sense of nostalgia and offer hours of calming comfort.

Key features:

• Comes with 40 sticks
• Features a mini ceramic donut incense holder handcrafted in Melbourne
• Holder made especially for Japanese incense
• Delivered in a reusable tin

Shop Now

09

Moma Colourplay backgammon set

$250, Hardtofind

Best for: The young at heart

Who can resist another game of Backgammon when the set looks as good as this? Reinvigorate family game night with a splash of colour and a dash of designer flair for a memorable gift that keeps on giving. Designed to last a lifetime with high-quality beechwood, the Colourplay box set contains 30 game pieces and five dice to keep the good times rolling for years to come. After all, one of the best gifts for mum (just ask her) is spending quality time with her loved ones, and this board is bound to bring everyone back together.

Key features:

• Comes with drawstring bag to keep all the parts together
• Made from high-quality beechwood
• Classic backgammon game set

Shop Now

10

Laneige Bouncy & Firm sleeping mask

$55, Sephora

Best for: The mum who never skips her 7-step skincare routine

For the ultimate in set-and-forget skincare, the latest release from cult beauty brand Laneige is the perfect add on to any beauty lover’s nightly rotation. The overnight sleeping mask is packed with skin-loving ingredients that promise to firm and plump your skin while you sleep for maximum impact with seriously minimal effort – which for your time-deprived mum, is exactly the type of treat she deserves.

Key features:

• For combination, dry, normal, and oily skin types
• Enriched with Peptide Complex and Peony and Collagen complex to firm and plump
• 60ml jar
• Cream formulation
• Designed to address skin concerns such as dryness, dullness, fine lines and uneven skin tone

Available at:

• $55 from Adore Beauty

Shop Now

What are the best gifts for mum?

Ask her and she’ll tell you that the best gift she can receive is your time and presence, but we know there’s another way to her heart, and it involves showing her that you appreciate her individual sense of style with a present that proves it. Flowers are great, but have you ever seen the look on your mum’s face when she opens a gift she’s been dreaming of buying herself for months? Mums are notorious for constantly putting their own needs second (or even last) and it’s for this reason that a little goes a long way when it comes to gifting with intent. Whether she needs a little time to herself, or loves to entertain, we’ve got your gift list sorted with stylish picks that go beyond the basics.

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The lightbulb moment came when the homeowners realised that most of their budget was allocated to the remodel, leaving the interiors to fall short. Refusing to give up their beloved home just moments from the beach, the couple instead enlisted interior designer Mariah Burton of Folk Studio, who stepped in to make the home shine from the inside out.

Here, Mariah talks us through nine of the most clever design details.

1. A feature fireplace

At the early discussion stage of this home’s redesign, the couple who owned it had just found out they were expecting their first child. By completion, they had a nine-month-old little boy. So, Mariah knew all along that this makeover needed to deliver on the family-friendly front while also fitting in some specific requests.

A feature fireplace was one such ask that’s not so common here in Australia (particularly where they are in Clovelly, close to the beach). “This was quite important for the clients because they’re Polish,” says Mariah. “They told me that in Poland the fireplace is the centre of the living room because their winters are so harsh. For them, it’s everything.” A new gas fireplace replaced the “pretty terrible” old one and is surrounded by blush-coloured tiles from Surface Gallery. The hearth and shelf are Calacatta Viola marble from Artedomus, with a feature wall in Dulux Blossom Time. Curves are echoed in the Koskela ‘Boowambillee’ nesting tables on top of the Jardan ‘Penny’ rug.

2. Entryway bench

As the owners enter the double-storey home at ground level, they’re welcomed by a built-in bench. “They wanted a space where they could sit and put their shoes on,” says Mariah of the seat upholstered with Hudson fabric in Mustard from Warwick. “The drawers are for knick-knacks like keys and things.” They have unique wavy brass handles from a range called Karu, a collaboration between Folk Studio and Lo & Co. Next to them is a cupboard for coats and umbrellas, while Tigmi ‘Curve’ mirrors allow for a last look before heading out the door.

3. A soft and subtle colour palette

This home has a lot of colour, but somehow manages to remain subtle. “The owners wanted us to think outside the box in terms of how we would inject colour without it feeling like a maximalist interior,” Mariah explains. Soft pinks, blues and greens, mustard and maroon combine in the living space, anchored by a V-shaped Thursday lounge by Jardan made with luxe Poppy fabric in a shade called Palm.

Opposite is a vibrant wall of art, with a TV snuck in there. “In the initial brief, they said, ‘We need to have a TV, but don’t want it to be the main feature.’ So I said, let’s get the Samsung Frame TV [showing image of trees] and we can create a gallery wall around it,” says Mariah. Nearby artworks include a yellow piece by Kane Lehanneur and blue work by Emily Ebbs, with a Jardan ‘Nelly’ table light in Mist on the entertainment unit.

4. A hidden laundry

A small laundry was removed to make way for a dining banquette, but was deftly rehomed in new kitchen cabinetry. “We integrated the laundry into the kitchen, so it’s hidden next to the fridge. There’s a little sink in there, and it has a washer and dryer,” says Mariah. “A lot of European laundries are really compact, and quite often European clients tell us they don’t need a whole room for a laundry.”

On top of the Laminex Porcelain Blush island is Calacatta Viola marble from Artedomus. A DesignByThem ‘Bobby’ stool in Oak tucks tidily underneath. “I wanted to give them a spot for extra seating, for things like a coffee in the morning or the high chair for the baby.”

5. Material whirl

Timber open shelving contrasts with the solid look of the cabinets above the marble splashback. The natural stone with its beautiful veining was a one-of-a-kind find. “The only thing was that it went a bit more white in one section, which I actually love, but the client said, ‘Oh, I wish there was a bit more of something happening in that space,’” shares Mariah. At the last minute, she added a brass rail from Imprint House to fill the void on the right and it’s proven useful for hanging bits and bobs.

“In the kitchen, we wanted to include timber where we could to soften it a bit.”

MARIAH BURTON, INTERIOR DESIGNER

6. Banquette dining nook

The neat dining space feels bigger, thanks to a banquette in the same mustard fabric as the entry, teamed with a Huxley table and Gus dining chairs in Duck Egg, all from Jardan. “That allowed more circulation space around the nook,” says Mariah.

A Dan Rushford artwork brings the fun, while the built-in seating has sensible storage underneath. “Knowing that this family was growing and they’re going to raise their son here, I felt like the more storage, the better. They can put toys or whatever else in those drawers below the dining table.”

7. Bar area

For the keen hosts, a space was dedicated to making drinks, complete with wine storage and a glass-hanging rack. “The owners love having their friends over, so I thought, ‘Why don’t I include a little bar?’” says Mariah. “We asked them what type of wine they like and customised the rack to the exact brands.”

A Flowerpot VP3 lamp in Dark Plum from Cult Design was picked early on and influenced the choice of maroon-veined marble. This hue also appears in the art of Victoria Zschommler.

“Next to the dining area is a bar zone with a vertical rack to display favourite wines.”

MARIAH BURTON, INTERIOR DESIGNER

8. Bathroom layout

The upstairs bathroom had light going for it, but the original layout was tricky to work with. The spa bath had to go, however, the owners wanted to retain a bath option and have a separate shower. “It took quite a lot of playing around to get it right,” says Mariah.

Her solution was a bath on the far wall, surrounded by handmade Moroccan tiles from Surface Gallery, with a shower in front. Fluted glass now creates a sense of privacy and designates the wet zone. “They also have a ceiling showerhead, which means the water is going down as opposed to out.”

The sink is seamlessly built into the bench marble. “It’s a costly process and not easy to construct, but creates a real sense of luxury,” she adds.

9. Artwork selection

An expert was enlisted to help with the artwork selections. “We worked with an art curator to fill in some of the spaces that we just couldn’t find pieces for,” says Mariah. In the main bedroom, a Pia Murphy work sourced by Folk Studio reflects the sorbet shades perfectly, while Eliza Fugar from Elide Studios found a few other pieces, such as the blue painting on the gallery wall downstairs and the large vessel by the fireplace.

Folk Studio is at folkstudiodesign.com and @folk.studio___

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It’s possible to make a tight budget work by simply keeping what you can and focusing on affordable, cosmetic changes. Even $1000 can go a long way with simple DIY updates such as painting, swapping out cabinetry handles, and adding floating shelves.

Read on to discover our four favourite ways to update your bathroom on a budget.

4 ways to update your bathroom for under $1000

1. Replace old and dated accessories and hardware

“Also high on the agenda is replacing dated vanity, tapware, lighting or accessories such as towel rails,” says Ania Forster, creative director at Gold Coast design studio Zephyr + Stone. If you can make the stretch, a heated towel rail is a great option – and something you’ll really appreciate come winter. “To really make an impact, concentrate on changing whatever is letting your bathroom down the most, or updating larger surface areas.” Be prepared to shop around to find the best products for the best price.

2. Repaint the tiles, vanities and walls

A coat of fresh paint will give you the biggest bang for your buck. “You can transform your bathroom for less than $600,” says Dulux brand manager Romy Nayagam. Look for specialist paints, such as the Dulux Renovation Range and White Knight Kitchen & Bathroom Range, which can be used to jazz up dated laminate, melamine, and timber cabinetry doors as well as floor and wall tiles.

3. Add or up the ante on your bathroom storage

Finally, banish clutter and create Zen-like calm with smart storage. “Look at freestanding shelving or trolley options, and maximise vanity storage with drawer inserts and storage containers,” says Amy Hare, an interior designer for Ikea Australia. “Also ensure there are enough towel rails for everyone – it seems obvious, but this is something people often forget.”

4. Style your bathroom and vanity

From there, aim to style like a pro. “Add indoor plants – they can make a huge difference to the look and feel of the space – and fluffy new towels, beautiful candles and soap dispensers,” says Frances Cosway, design director at Melbourne’s White Pebble Interiors. If your mirror is too small, consider swapping it for a larger style that bounces light around. “I prefer oval or round mirrors,” she says, “to break up all the straight edges that are traditionally in a bathroom.”

No budget to renovate? Create a new look for your vanity with fresh accessories, says Kaety Thompson of Sydney’s Oliver Thom:

• Add some metal magic Brass or gold accessories add instant elegance.
• Keep a consistent theme Create a cohesive look by pairing chrome tapware with accessories in a similar tone, such as pewter or brushed nickel, or brass with bronze accessories.
• Explore the dark side Accessorise with dark colours, such as dark grey, for a sophisticated feel.
• Anchor accessories Use trays to keep products such as your handwash, lotion and scent diffuser together. Have a separate area for hand towels.

How to style your bathroom vanity

5 bathroom products that will instantly refresh your space

01

Jade and May Dawn brass hook

$46, Hardtofind

If you’ve maxed out your bathroom space but still don’t have enough room to hang the family’s towels, opt instead for a couple of beautiful hooks secured to the back of the door. Available in two sizes (medium and large), simply attach with a single screw and hang your robe, bath towels, or hand towels.

Key features:

• Secured with a screw
• Available in two sizes
• Made in Java

Shop Now

02

Resurrection Aromatique hand wash

$53, Aesop

It’s surprising the difference having a beautiful handwash sink-side (as opposed to its cheap, harsh supermarket counterpart) can make to a bathroom. When you’ve washed your way through an entire bottle of this herbaceous-scented liquid, save waste by purchasing a refill.

Key features:

• Key ingredients include Mandarin Rind, Rosemary Leaf, Cedar Atlas
• The bottles are made from a minimum of 97% recycled plastics
• Low-foaming

Shop Now

03

Aura Home Paros rib bath towel set in Olive Night

$99.50 (usually $199), Myer

Swapping those old crusty towels that should almost definitely be tossed with brand new ones will instantly change how you feel about your bathroom. Incredibly soft and with a ribbed texture, this sustainably-made set from Aura Home includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and one bath mat.

Colours: Olive Night, Sand, Bronze, Shell, Lilac and Clay

Key features:

• 100% cotton
• OEKO-TEX certified
• Knotted fringe detail

Shop Now

04

Castella Gallant handle in Brushed Nickel

from $32, The Blue Space

Something as simple as updating your vanity and cabinetry pulls can make a world of difference. This minimal, sleek handle is available in two sizes and three finishes (Brushed Nickel, Brushed Brass and Matte Black), making it the perfect pick for many bathroom styles.

Colours: Brushed Nickel, Brushed Brass and Matte Black

Key features:

• Lifetime guarantee
• Available in two sizes and three finishes
• Modern, refined and elegant design

Shop Now

05

Wooden sisal bath brush

$7.95 (usually $9.95), Pillow Talk

This cute (and very affordable!) wooden sisal bath brush bridges the gap between functionality and style. Pop it next to your bath, ready to be used for when you need a good, relaxing soak. Its natural bristles will effectively exfoliate your skin, leaving you soft as ever.

Key features:

• Natural bristles
• Brush diameter 8-9cm
• Ergonomic handle design

Shop Now

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From choosing not-ugly water and food bowls to toys that stimulate your puppy’s active mind, there are countless options for your furry friend and all of their belongings. You can also keep your home organised with a designated space for all of your pet’s belongings: a storage basket (or two) for their growing collection of toys, and stylish jars and tins to keep kibble on pantry shelves.

Here are our top picks for stylish dog accessories for you to spoil them silly. You’re welcome.

The best dog accessories to shop in 2024

01

Kong Classic Red pet toy

$36.99, Pet Circle

The Kong toy has become a staple in the toy collection of dogs across the globe, and with its endless benefits, it’s no wonder it is such a firm favourite of dogs and owners alike. Designed to reward your pooch as they play, this dog treat toy by KONG does the hard work for us humans by releasing treats loaded within, keeping any dog entertained for hours.

Key features:

• Mentally stimulating
• Made from all-natural rubber
• Fill with treats and toys for extra stimulation

Shop now

02

Round-head pet grooming brush

$18.90, Michu

Keep your pet looking their best with this round-headed pet brush that will ensure their coat is tangle-free and silky soft. Not only will it effortlessly groom your pet, but the sleek design won’t cause an eye sore in your home.

Key features:

• Encourages blood circulation
• Can work on both cats and dogs
• Easy to hold handle to ensure no slipping
• Dispense button makes cleaning a breeze

Shop now

03

Barker rope dog toy

$26.95 , Hardtofind

Every dog loves a game of tug of war and this chic grey rope toy keeps your beloved belongings out of your pooch’s mouth. This toy will keep them busy and the minimalist design doesn’t draw eyes when left in the middle of the loungeroom.

Key features:

• Encourages healthy play and mental stimulation
• Excellent for canine dental health
• Safe toy option

Shop Now

04

Bondi Wash Dog Essentials

$55, The Iconic

Keep their fur smelling clean and fresh with a dog washing set that will not only rid them of dirt and mud but soothe skin, repel fleas and nourish their pelt. This set includes a black travel cosmetics bag (to keep everything organised when you travel), a 100g Dry Dog Wash, 125ml Dog Wash, 50ml Mini Kennel Spray and a black washcloth.

Key features:

• Set includes: 1x 100g Dry Dog Wash, 1x 50ml Mini Kennel Spray, 1x 125ml Dog Wash, 1x black washcloth
• Naturally repels insects and kills germs
• 99% plant-derived ingredients

Shop Now

05

Dog corner bowl set in Blush

$51 (usually $85), David Jones

100 per cent compostable – made from bamboo fibre and cornstarch – this square dog bowl will sit snug against your wall, meaning it’s less prone to being knocked over and it’s space-saving. Each set features a food bowl, water trough, and a slow-feeder insert, it’s a practical and stylish addition to your collection of pet accessories.

Key features:

• Free from plastic, PA or phthalates
• Large capacity water trough
• Dishwasher safe

Shop Now

06

Bear plush dog blanket in black (56cm)

$19.99, Petbarn

Everyone loves a teddy bear, and your dog is certainly no exception. This sweet plush bear blanket will become a firm favourite for bedtime, play and cuddling.

Key features:

• Suitable for all-size dogs
• Provides companionship
• Provides play and stimulation

Shop Now

07

Black Space dog Oodie

$59, Oodie

Once the weather begins to cool, we love to rug up in our cosiest blankets and hoodies; include your pup in the warmth with this adorable dog-friendly Oodie. They range in sizes XS to XLP, so no one needs to be left out, and they are a breeze to put on even the squirmiest of dogs, thanks to the snap buttons.

Key features:

• Made from ToastyTek fleece
• Opening in neck for leash
• Machine washable

Shop Now

08

Buddy & Belle bolster bed in Deep Ocean

$149, Petstock

Your pup will curl up in comfort and style in this stylish round dog bed that seamlessly blends into your home. Made from polyester (outer, inner, cushion, and base) and post-consumer recycled polyester (fill), it provides a soft and cosy bed for your best furry friend.

Key features:

• Two sizes available
• Made from polyester and post-consumer recycled polyester fill
• Deep wall design
• Removable and reversible cushion
• Machine washable
• Anti-slip base

Shop Now

09

Animal poop dispenser bag

$6 (was $12), Gorman

No need for unsightly dog bags tied to leashes any more thanks to this sleek and stylish piece from Gorman that will keep those essential items neatly tucked away and attach to your leash with ease.

Key features:

• Clips onto your leash
• Available in a range of prints and colourways
• Sleek gold hardware

Shop Now

10

Frank Green pet lead in Mint Green

$59.95, David Jones

We all love to look our best, and this stylish leash will ensure your pooch is the envy of the dog park. This sleek dog leash by Frank Green is our pick, and it comes in an array of different pastel-hued colours to suit your (and your dog’s) taste.

Key features:

• Zinc alloy hardware
• Stainless steel D-ring
• Reinforced webbing strap
• Available in a variety of colours

Shop Now

What is the best toy for my dog?

The best toy for your dog depends on factors like size, age, and personality. Popular options include chew toys, interactive toys, fetch toys, plush toys, tug toys, and water toys. Choose toys that suit your dog’s preferences and always supervise playtime.

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Style of home: A modern Dutch-style barn with subtle wabi-sabi influences.

Location: St Kilda in Melbourne, the traditional land of the Kulin Nations.

Timeline: The build, including a month-long hiatus due to lockdown restrictions in 2020, took about 11 months.

In an age where social media-led trends reign supreme, meditation teacher Stefanie Crawford’s thoughtful approach to interior design stands out from the crowd. Her home reflects her unique personal style and champions objects and ideas gathered over time. An interior designer in a former life, Stefanie has design sensibilities that were shaped by a European childhood and intrepid adult life. Her choice of timeless over transient has given the Crawford family an idiosyncratic home that is so much a reflection of the owner’s aesthetic, you couldn’t recreate it if you tried.

Stefanie, who now also works as a psychosynthesis coach, lives in the St Kilda house with her husband, Glenn, and son, Ollie. “Building my own home from the ground up has always been a personal dream,” she says. “Having the freedom to bring my ideas to life without limitations was a true privilege.”

The house is built on an irregularly shaped block that’s squeezed in behind a row of apartments, a heritage-listed Methodist church, and several conventional cream-brick dwellings, one of which Stefanie and Glenn used to own. Sitting directly behind their old home, the site of their current one is only accessible via a long and narrow laneway.

Despite its obvious drawbacks, the overgrown and unloved site slowly cast its spell on Stefanie, who used to furtively explore it while searching for her cat, who, it would seem, was also drawn to the site. Unphased by the lack of access and large, unruly trees, Stefanie says, “The land held a peculiar charm for me. I felt transported to a different world, far removed from the hustle and bustle.” So, when the chance to buy came up, Stefanie pounced, sensing its potential for transformation into something truly special.

Once the land was purchased and the design phase underway, Stefanie approached architect Susi Leeton, whose work she’d long admired. “We met 20 years ago,” says Stefanie. “I playfully told her that one day she’d be designing my home.” Susie brought Stefanie and Glenn’s vision to life while maximising space on the challenging site. “We envisioned a hidden oasis with a distinctly European and eclectic vibe. Susi, who’s known for her mastery of curves and helical stairs [which were part of the plan] was the perfect choice for us.”

Given free creative rein by Glenn, Stefanie drew inspiration from each phase of her colourful life. “Building our family home was a culmination of years of inadvertent research,” she says. “Every experience I encountered has shaped the design, creating a space that incorporates the essence of my journey.” Growing up in The Netherlands, Stefanie travelled the world as a model in her late teens and early twenties, living in Paris and New York. “It was a period that profoundly influenced my passion for interior design,” she says. Inspired by the vibrancy of those global centres of art, she decided to study interior design in Australia and was settled in Melbourne by her late twenties.

“My experiences as a fashion model exposed me to diverse aesthetics. The handmade Zellige tiles in the kitchen, for instance, were inspired by a trip I took to Marrakesh,” she says. “Additionally, spending months in Japan introduced me to the concept of wabi-sabi, influencing my appreciation for imperfection and transience.” Overseas influences are clearly visible in every detail, from the Tuscan-style rendered walls to the old Dutch steel window that illuminates the ensuite.

“Most of our furnishings are secondhand treasures from flea markets in Europe, local auction houses, Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and other unique shops,” says Stefanie. “Some of my favourite pieces, like the 17th-century French armoire and early 1800s large golden mirror from a German manor – both in the home office – were items I found online.”

While Stefanie scoured the internet for bargain buys, Glenn, who is general manager at Harnest Constructions (part of the Mazzei Group), took charge of the build. “That ensured a relatively seamless process,” she says, admitting that although the home is well built and just as she imagined, its true success lies in being a sanctuary and workspace where she hosts various meditation courses and runs one-on-one coaching sessions. “Our house is not only a sanctuary for our family, it’s a communal space for a broader community.”

Lessons learnt

Stefanie says she learnt to accept the things she didn’t have control over, which in her case was Covid lockdowns and the longer-than-expected town-planning process. She says crystal-clear communication and transparency are essential for a smooth-running project.

Susi Leeton is at susileeton.com.au and @susi_leeton_architects.
Harnest Constructions is at harnest.com.au

See more home transformations

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A brick bungalow with a soaring extension and a Mediterranean-meets-heritage vibe

An instruction to ‘add colour’ took this weatherboard cottage to a joyfully elegant place

This once-tired bungalow brings the party with a kaleidoscope of colour

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The post This modern Dutch-style barn in St Kilda is the epitome of European timelessness appeared first on Homes To Love.

This year, we are seeking projects that embody the idea of ‘home’, highlighting sensitive design and the ability to create emotional spaces through the clever use of materials and innovative treatment of light and space.

There are six award categories that projects may be submitted under, and the overall winner will be granted $10,000. The categories are as follows:

• Best compact home build (under 200m)
• Best sustainable project
• Best alteration or renovation
• Best use of material (brick)
• Best residential interior
• Best garden design

How to enter

Entries must be submitted via Jotform by 11:59 pm (AEST/AEDST) on Monday 1st July 2024. Entrants will be required to provide contact details, project details, a description, and images. Competition T&Cs can be found at aremedia.com.au/competitions/

See previous Home of the Year winners

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00:59

Inside Out’s 2021 Home of the Year revealed

Inside Out x Brickworks Home of the Year 2022: Brunswick House by Placement Studio

Inside Out x Brickworks Home of the Year 2023: Sunday by Architecture architecture

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The post Apply now for Inside Out’s Home of the Year 2024 appeared first on Homes To Love.

Our expert team has curated a selection of the best salt and pepper grinders that promise to turn this underrated utensil into one of your favourite kitchen accessories.

The best salt and pepper grinders to add to cart in 2024

01

Joseph Joseph ‘Milltop’ salt and pepper grinder set

$109.95, Myer

Cult kitchenware brand Joseph Joseph is known for its innovative product range that blends serious functionality with contemporary good looks and the Milltop salt and pepper mills are no exception. Designed to eliminate the (sometimes messy) aftermath of a good grind, the elegant two-piece set places the ceramic grinding mechanism at the top, allowing any excess grounds to fall back into the mill instead of all over your kitchen bench. Plus, the wider chamber does away with the traditional central spindle, increasing capacity and making it super simple to fill.

Colours: Sage, Grey

Key features:

• The grinding mechanism is at the top of the mill, meaning less spills
• Increases capacity
• Easy to fill

Available at:

• $109.95 from The Iconic
• $109.95 from David Jones
• $78 from Appliances Online

Shop now

02

Eva Solo salt and pepper grinder

$99.95, Hardtofind

Small, but stylish, these classic grinders made from oak and birch wood, come with a 25-year guarantee on the ceramic parts and can be used for both salt and peppercorns. Designed for ease of use with a minimalist aesthetic, the grind can be adjusted to suit any cook’s preference, whether you’re looking for a fine, or coarser mill.

Colours: Oak, White and Black

Key features:

• Can be used for both sea salt and pepper
• 25-year warranty on ceramic parts
• Turn base to change coarseness

Available at:

• $99.95 from The Iconic
• $80.46 from Amazon

Shop now

03

Addison Ross London ‘Twister’ wooden salt and pepper grinder in Sage

$108, Selfridges

If you’re looking to add a pop of colour to your kitchen then it’s hard to go past the concave profile of the Twister range by Addison Ross London. Available in a range of rainbow hues, the FSC certified rubber wood mill is hand polished between coats for a deliciously glossy finish and features a ceramic mechanism that makes it a great choice for both salt and pepper.

Colours: Sage, Cappuccino, Leaf Green and Orange

Key features:

• 100% wood
• Not suitable for sea salt, wet salt, or dried wet salt or pink peppercorns
• Ceramic mechanism

Shop Now

04

Marimekko ‘Oiva Siirtolapuutarha’ grinders in Clay/White and White/Clay

$129 (each), The Block Shop

Part of the Oiva tableware collection by beloved Finnish lifestyle brand Marimekko, the nostalgic simplicity of these stoneware grinders – available in two complementary white and beige patterns – will add a soft, yet stylish statement to your kitchen decor. The CrushGrind mechanism comes with a 10-year warranty and works wonders for both salt and pepper, making them a great choice for both everyday use and special occasions.

Colours: White/Clay and Clay/White

Key features:

• White stoneware design
• Available in two pattern variations
• Suitable for both salt and pepper

Available at:

• $171.33 from Amazon

Shop Now

05

Audo Copenhagen ‘Bottle’ small grinder set

$184.90, Hardtofind

Designed by Norm Architects for Danish furnishings, lighting and interior brand Audo, the small Bottle grinders strike the perfect balance between contemporary and classic. Available in a range of aesthetic colour combinations, such as team favourite Hunting Green and Beige, the salt and pepper mills are fitted with ceramic grinders and an adjustable walnut lid.

Key features:

• Designed by Norm Architects
• Fits comfortably in hand
• Ceramic grinder

Shop Now

06

Boulder pepper grinder

$330, Dinosaur Designs

A fan favourite among Australian design lovers, this instantly recognisable homewares brand is known for its sculptural resin pieces that come in every colour of the rainbow. Made in Sydney, the Boulder grinder features a stainless-steel mechanism which works for peppercorns only – no salt allowed in this one!

Colours: Lychee, Coral Swirl, Sandy Pearl, Rose Swirl, Coral Pop, Parakeet, Shell Pink, Flamingo, Mineral Swirl, Abalone, Black, Black Marble, Chalk Swirl, Cream, Dark Horn, Honeycomb, Lagoon, Leaf, Light Horn, Malachite, Mint, Sky, Snow Swirl, White Marble

Key features:

• Each grinder features a distinct and unique marbling
• 100% Resin with Stainless Steel grinder mechanism
• Handwash only

Shop Now

07

Alessi ‘Grind’ grinder

$199, Farfetch

Designed by William Alsop and Federico Grazzini for iconic Italian design house, Alessi, the aptly named ‘Grind’ grinder is crafted in die-cast aluminium with a ceramic mechanism that flips traditional mill design on its head with its elegant, pleated profile and twist-top lid. A guaranteed conversation starter, this centrepiece-worthy table addition will delight even the most discerning of dinner guests.

Key features:

• 100% stainless steel
• Suitable for salt, pepper and spices
• Ribbed design with a twist-top lid

Available at:

• $129.88 from Amazon

Shop Now

08

Davis & Waddell Nuvolo marble salt & pepper mill set

$44.95 (usually $54.95), Temple & Webster

Sleek and sophisticated, this chic pairing is perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their kitchen. Featuring a durable zinc alloy grinder in the darker pepper grinder, the matching vessel is fitted with a shaker lid and best stocked with table salt.

Key features:

150-300 word description of this product.

• Durable zinc alloy grinder
• Natural marble texture
• Dust with a dry cloth when needed

Available at:

• $69.95 from Woolworths
• $69.95 from Kogan

Shop Now

09

Georg Jensen Alfredo salt and pepper small

$265, The Iconic

With its stainless steel body and All-Grind ceramic mechanism, the smaller version of the Alfredo salt and pepper mills offers the best in Scandinavian simplicity. The pair are easily adjusted for whatever grind you need, making a perfect match for anyone looking to bring a sophisticated spark to their dining setting.

Key features:

• Mirror polished stainless steel
• Scandinavian design
• Removable top for easy filling

Available at:

• $265 from David Jones
• $257.86 from Amazon

Shop Now

10

The Cooks Collective ‘Remington’ salt and pepper mills

$79.95, Myer

Made of solid acacia wood with a ceramic grinding mechanism and antique brass detailing, the Remington salt and pepper mills are a great way to bring the warmth-factor to any kitchen setup.

Key features:

• Ceramic grinding mechanism
• Solid Acacia wood
• Various grind settings

Shop Now

11

Addison Ross London ‘Bobbin’ grinder

$101, Selfridges

Short and sweet, these chic and petite Bobbin grinders are a favourite among the Inside Out team. Available in a range of bright and neutral colours – such as Chambray, Watermelon, Cappuccino and – our current obsession – Cherry, these playful tableware additions are hand polished for a lacquered finish that will stand the test of time. Made of 100 per cent wood with a ceramic mechanism for a neat and mess-free grind, the only issue you’ll have is deciding what colour to buy next!

Colours: Chambray, Cappuccino, Cherry, Watermelon

Key features:

• 100% wood
• Not suitable for sea salt, wet salt, or dried wet salt or pink peppercorns
• Ceramic mechanism

Shop Now

12

Addison Ross London ‘Bobbin’ salt and pepper grinder

$108, Selfridges

The taller sibling of the shorter Bobbin design, this mighty mill makes for an excellent table topper with its lacquered, hand-polished finish and punchy profile. We love the look of the short and tall pairing if you’re after a characterful couple, but the individual styles can hold their own when it comes to making a designer statement.

Colours: Orange, Chambray, Pink, Cherry, Racing Green, Sage

Key features:

• 100% wood
• Not suitable for sea salt, wet salt, or dried wet salt or pink peppercorns
• Ceramic mechanism

Shop Now

13

Zaha Hadid Design ‘Duo’ salt and pepper grinders

$233, Farfetch

As if locked in an embrace, the twisted detailing of these award-winning grinders is a nod to the celebrated forms of Zaha Hadid’s esteemed architectural practice. Made to last, the soft-touch plastic outer features a ceramic grinding mechanism and durable core, making each piece perfect for either salt or peppercorns. We love the olive and black pairing, but the sets are also available in a selection of contrasting colours that will suit any style kitchen counter or tabletop.

Colours: Olive/Black and Olive/White

Key features:

• Polypropylene 100%, ceramic 100%
• Twist detailing
• Made from soft-touch plastic

Shop Now

14

Ferm Living ‘Cairn’ and ‘Pebble’ grinders

$112 each, Selfridges

Inspired by the organic shape of stacked stones, Ferm Living’s Cairn and Pebble spice mills are made from FSC-certified ash wood with a carbonised finish that works for both salt and pepper. The gentle curves and harmonious pairing of the two styles offers Scandi-minimalism at its finest. If you’re looking to impress a serious foodie in your life, make these your go-to gift and you’ll be the first guest on their dinner party invites every time.

Key features:

• 100% wood
• Suitable for both salt and pepper
• Minimalist design

Shop Now

15

L’Objet ‘Picanto’ salt and pepper mills

$725, Net-A-Porter

When it comes to luxe kitchen additions it doesn’t get much more impressive than L’Objet’s Picanto set. Hand-sculpted from European and smoked oak with a touch of brass and a milled ceramic mechanism, both grinders are suitable for any dried spice. However, L’Objet recommends salt for the smaller mill and peppercorns for the larger. These forever-pieces will stand the test of time and be the talking point of any special soiree!

Key features:

• Made from Eurpoean oak and smoked oak
• Products are handcrafted
• Suitable for salt, pepper and any dried spice

Shop Now

16

Alessi ‘100 Values’ short spice grinder

$154, Farfetch

The 100 Values Collection, which comes in a variety of colour combinations and two sizes – like the tall and short size pictured – are perfect for spices, salt, or peppercorns, and feature a ceramic mechanism and unique hand-crafted finish. Made in Italy and lacquered to reveal the natural wood grain beneath, this curvaceous design is guaranteed to add main character energy to your kitchenware collection.

Sizes: Short and Tall

Key features:

• 100% wood
• Made in Italy
• Partly hand-crafted

Shop Now

Types of salt and pepper mills

Whatever your culinary needs, there’s a style to suit. The three main types of salt and pepper utensils fall into the following categories:

1. Salt and pepper grinders
   This classic duo does what it says on the tin, using blades to break down rock salt or peppercorns into either a fine or coarser finish, with adjustable grinds that let you fine-tune the mill to meet your needs. Grinders come in all sorts of styles, colourways, heights and shapes, allowing you to find the perfect pair for your kitchen aesthetic.
2. Salt and pepper shakers
   Smaller in scale than their more powerful counterparts, salt and pepper shakers are simple vessels for table salt and/or ground pepper and are mostly used to add seasoning to taste once a meal has been served. A mainstay of the dining table, salt and pepper shakers are also found in a wide range of designs and often feature heavily in lists of collectable kitchenware.  
3. Electric salt and pepper grinders
   Often chosen for ease and convenience, automatic spice grinders operate much like a manual, mill with similar settings that allow for adjustable grinds but are battery-powered to produce the desired finish with the touch of a button. 

Will a pepper grinder work for salt?

While the two mills may appear interchangeable, when shopping for grinders it’s important to note that salt is corrosive and over time, can start to break down the carbon or stainless-steel blades used in pepper mills, reducing efficacy, and causing salt to clump or stick to the metal resulting in a grinder that no longer does its job.

How can you tell the difference between a salt and pepper grinder?

Mills that are made for salt will feature either a nylon or ceramic mechanism that is naturally oxidized to withstand its corrosive occupier and can crush salt crystals with ease. Aside from reading the design details for whatever product you’re looking at buying, you can also identify whether the mechanism is made for salt by simply looking at the base. If it’s white, or light-coloured, it will either be nylon or ceramic and will be purpose-fit for salt.

Likewise, if the mechanism is stainless or carbon steel, then it will be solely made to house peppercorns due to the rough nature of the ingredient and the need for a robust mechanism that’s capable of grinding, rather than crushing.

What makes a good salt and pepper mill?

If you’re looking for an option that will work for both salt and pepper interchangeably, then opt for a mill with a ceramic mechanism that is both resistant to corrosion, and strong enough to grind peppercorns with ease.

How do I clean my salt and pepper grinder?

Whether grinding over steaming pots of water or simmering sauces, over time the mechanism can start to clog, but cleaning is easy if you follow these simple steps:

Simply grinding some coarse salt is a great way to clear out any residue that might have built up around the grinding stone or ceramic core. If a deeper clean is needed, turn the grinder upside down and grind back and forth to clear the chamber. Once empty, screw off the adjusting wheel, remove the core and use a stiff brush to remove any stubborn residue. Wash the parts with a gentle detergent and soft cloth, making sure to avoid submerging the parts in water, then dry completely before reassembling.

If your wooden grinders are looking a little lacklustre, use vegetable or food-safe oil and a soft cloth to bring the grain back to life.

The post 16 salt and pepper grinders for every kitchen style appeared first on Homes To Love.

Whether it’s a seemingly impossible stain removal, a car deep clean, a dramatic hair colour do-over, or, in this case, an amazing home renovation, comparing the bad with the good shows what’s achievable with a little hard work and a good dose of elbow grease (or some super strength stain remover).

Here, we’ve picked out eight of the most impressive and dramatic before and after home renovations to give you goosebumps. Who knows, maybe you’ll be inspired to create your own.

Our favourite before and afters that need to be seen to be believed

1. A dark century-old cottage made light and bright

When Nat and Zach Spadavecchia purchased this c1920s sandstone cottage in Helensburgh, ‘Luck Cottage’, they thought the renovation would be a speedy and cosmetic one. But that was not the case. With 2022 came rain and flooding the couple could not have anticipated, and the termite-ridden back half of the home completely collapsed. “I was pregnant and hormonal and kept thinking – what have we done? We’ve basically paid for a few sandstone walls,” recalls Nat, the stylist and photographer behind The Palm Co. Pushing through their doubt, Nat and Zach gave the quaint cottage a complete overhaul, blending its original charm with a “modern touch”.

2. A run-down Queenslander turned stylish family home

Emily and Dan MacKillop used to look over their garden fence at the run-down 1880s worker’s cottage next door. When the property hit the market in 2020, the pair took the opportunity to transform the then-student accommodation into a family-friendly home with a backyard of 100 square metres – despite the sloped block. “We wanted to create a modern reinterpretation of a traditional Queenslander,” says Dan. By changing the floor plan and extending backwards, the couple created a bright and open home that steers clear of cookie-cutter.

3. A once “gross” Victorian home now exudes pared-back chic

When Ivy Huang chanced across this Victorian-era home in Albert Park, it was the typical worst house on the best street. “The fact that this project was so challenging and so gross actually made it really attractive to me,” she says with a laugh. A total hoarder’s house, the property was in complete disrepair – and carried the less-than-welcome smells that went with such a state. Honouring a heritage overlay but tearing down the rest, Ivy made way for a design that was both contemporary and sympathetic to the original era, complete with sweeping archways and an organic feel.

4. A colourfully elegant weatherboard cottage

Nicola and Tom purchased this weatherboard cottage home in 2017 from a retired ferry driver who had lived there since the mid-1960s and extended in the 70s, using no insulation and seeking no council approval. Working with interior designer Caitlin Parker-Brown of Parker Studio, the pair formulated a brief that combined colour and elegance with a hardy material palette of limestone flooring, walnut joinery and travertine stone. “I love the colour palette and materials here,” says Caitlin. “Our clients were very trusting, which gave us freedom to push the envelope.”

5. A renovation took this cottage from “awkward” to an “urban oasis”

Situated in Melbourne’s Fitzroy North, this now sun-dappled and spacious home was not always as such. “We always intended to renovate the house as it was pretty run-down, with poor light, mouldy ceilings, and very awkward communal spaces that weren’t conducive to modern living,” says homeowner Mooey, who purchased the property in 2019 with her husband, Simon. Working alongside Imogen Pullar Architecture and Nick Healey of Healey Constructions, the pair devised a plan for the worker’s cottage that would maximise the feeling of spaciousness, the available natural light and garden views.

6. A renovated 1900s worker’s cottage with a contemporary extension

Dubbed Hazelwood House, this breezy home is a shining example of a Brisbane dream home, where outdoor entertaining and poolside lounging are paramount. When Interior designer Morgan Braithwaite and architect Tom Favell bought the property, it was all but derelict, but now, the sunshine-filled home features natural, bespoke finishes spread across a two-storey layout that easily accommodates both social gatherings and quieter moments.

7. A renovated 1920s brick bungalow with a soaring extension

When Bill and Kellie bought this Newcastle home in 2012, they were charmed by its near-century-old cornices, ceiling mouldings and picture rails. But beyond, it was a mishmash of rooms from serial renovations and a rear extension that did no justice to the floorplan. To bring the home up to scratch, the couple called in interior designers Courtney Atkinson and Marissa Hamling of Bone and Blanc Interiors, who layered textures and light, earthy tones to create a look that is “coastal Mediterranean with a mix of heritage”.

8. Interior designer Kate Lawrence-Parker’s reimagining of her childhood home

Long before her romance with Sydney Swans AFL star Luke Parker, and even before her career in interior design, Kate Lawrence-Parker grew up in a leafy Sydney suburb with her parents, Rhonda and Bruce. Working closely with her mum, Kate used her talents to reimagine the three-storey brick abode, completely gutting the kitchens and bathrooms, adding a fireplace and replacing the flooring and paint. “It started as bathroom renovations, and then we expanded and did the whole house,” says Kate. “We said, ‘If we are going to do it, let’s do it right.’”

See more renovation inspiration

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A heritage facade belies this Sydney home’s ultra-contemporary extension

01:32

21 of the best home renovation ideas to steal for yourself

A thoughtful renovation brings a 100-year-old home into the 21st century

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The post 8 real-life renovation before and afters that will blow your mind appeared first on Homes To Love.

From simple floating shelves for storing books to larger feature pieces, a wall shelf can be used to create chic vignettes throughout the home without compromising on floor space.

The key to installing any floating shelf is to ensure that you measure twice, and drill once. You’ll want to break out the measuring tape and spirit level to ensure that you’re mounting your floating shelf in the right spot and at the right angle.

If you’re planning on using it to store particularly heavy objects, make sure your shelf is supported by timber studs in your wall to keep it secure.

Available in a wide array of different colours, materials, styles and silhouettes, wall-mounted shelves are an easy storage solution for compact spaces.

The best floating shelves to buy in Australia

01

Ash floating shelf

$48.90, Etsy

Best for: rustic homes

This solid wood floating shelf features an organically shaped live edge to add a touch of rustic charm to any room. Each shelf is unique so you know you’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece for your home.

Materials: oak, ash, walnut, hardwood, slab, resin, epoxy, wood

Key features:

• Handmade
• 1.25″ thick
• Live-edge design

Shop Now

02

Acrylic floating bookshelf (set of 6)

$29.99, Amazon

Best for: Minimalists

In a pack of six, these slimline acrylic floating shelves take things back to basics. Perfect for displaying books, magazines, photo frames, posters, and more. Install all six in uniform rows to create a statement wall display that you can switch out depending on your mood (or season).

Size: 10cm x 5cm x 10cm

Material: Acrylic

Key features:

• 6 pack
• Perfect for displaying magazines, books, or knick-knacks

Shop Now

03

Metal wall floating shelf

$77.96 (usually $91.73), Etsy

Best for: industrial-styled interiors.

Available in three different sizes, this geometric floating metal shelf is handmade to perfection. Display your favourite indoor plants and knick-knacks on this shelf to add character to your living room.

Sizes: 81cm x 17cm, 52cm x 15cm, 33cm x 13cm

Material: Metal

Key features:

• Handmade
• Natural rusting process
• Screws and dowels included

Shop Now

04

Walnut hanging floating shelf

$232.11 (usually $257.90), Etsy

Best for: living rooms and entryways.

Looking for a floating shelf with a twist? This one will fit the bill. With a unique curved design and hidden mounting system, it’s a shelf that actually floats.

Sizes: 2cm x 16.5cm

Material: Wood

Key features:

• Handmade
• 5 wood finishes are available: ash, walnut, cherry, wenge, and oak

Shop Now

05

Oakleigh Home Araceli 90cm Paulownia wood floating shelf (set of 2)

$49.95 (usually $59.95), Temple & Webster

Best for: a timeless design.

Crafted for compact spaces, these wooden floating shelves allow you to display your favourite home decor pieces with ease, ensuring they are spotlighted (as they should be) around the home.

Size: 3.8cm x 90cm x15cm

Material: 100% paulownia wood

Key features:

• Set of 2
• Made from 100% paulownia wood
• Wall mounting brackets included

Shop Now

06

Circular shelved natural wall hanging

$111 (usually $149), Early Settler

Best for: coastal-styled abodes.

Just as pretty as it is functional, this circular rattan shelf offers extra storage and durability, as well as the added bonus of imbuing coastal style.

Size: 76cm x 76cm x 16cm

Material: Bamboo

Key features:

• Constructed with bamboo
• Perfect for indoor plants

Shop Now

07

Rose Bloom gold floating shelves (set of 2)

$153.24, Amazon

Best for: bedrooms or walk-in-robes

Perfect for the home office, bedroom, kitchen, or living room, this floating shelf set comes in two sizes for all your storage and display needs. In a glamourous golden hue, it’s the perfect spot to display your favourite home decor or accessories within a walk-in-robe.

Size: 15.6″ x 5.4″ x 4.6″, 11.5″ x 5.4″ x 4.2″

Material: Engineered wood

Key features:

• Easy assembly
• Two sizes
• Gold accents

Shop Now

08

Scallop wall shelf in oak

$119 (usually $179), RJ Living

Best for: modern homes.

This scallop wall shelf from RJ Living will fit perfectly into any modern or contemporary home with its fun gold-accented scalloped design.

Size: 40cm, 70cm

Material: Solid European oak and powder coated metal

Key features:

• Scalloped design
• Two sizes
• Gold accents

Shop Now

09

Mid-century modern wall shelf

$80, Etsy

Best for: Mid-century modern homes.

Available in a dark walnut hue or a light natural finish, this wall shelf is a statement piece for interior design styles that lean Mid-century Modern or art deco. Inspired by fluted mouldings and panels, this shelf is a stylish storage solution as well as a home decor piece that will add character to any space.

Size: single, double

Material: wood

Colour: natural, walnut

Key features:

• Two shelf options available
• Two colour finishes available
• Handmade

Shop Now

How to install floating shelves

Installing a floating shelf may sound intimidating – where do the nails go? How is it floating really? But it’s actually easier than you might think. Below are some easy steps to follow.

1. Find your wall studs – as with hanging up anything on your walls, locating wall studs is essential to ensure your shelves are installed securely and can support the weight of the items you put on top of them. You can use a stud finder to locate these.
2. Make it level – using a level, mark a straight line on the wall to plan out where you want these floating shelves to sit.
3. Add the brackets – most floating shelves come with their own installation kit, so reading the specific instructions from the manufacturer is advised here. However, generally, kits will come with a combination of brackets, screws, and wall anchors (for when you can’t find a stud) to help you secure the floating shelf discreetly.
4. Slide it on – with brackets attached, you can slide the shelf easily via built-in grooves/slots.
5. Decorate – once you’re happy with your shelves, you can decorate them to your heart’s desire.
   

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Style of home: Double-fronted, freestanding circa-1850s house with a three-bedroom layout that was changed to a two-bedroom format.

Location: Richmond in Melbourne, on the traditional land of the Wurundjeri people.

Timeline: The project was completed between June 2022 and March 2023.

The transformation of one Melbourne abode was all about finding that sweet spot – pursuing practical functionality while trusting creative intuition, and letting a design process unfold. It was also about honouring the past at the same time as boldly stepping into the new.

The owners of the renewed colonial home in Melbourne’s Richmond are a retired couple who had previously lived nearby in Hawthorn and Kew – for more than 20 years – before moving to the Mornington Peninsula. “Once our boys left home, we decided to downsize in the city and upsize in the country,” she [one of the owners] explains.

As they embraced their newly acquired rural home and tree-change lifestyle, they looked for a ‘weekender’ in the city; somewhere to host family and friends and enjoy easy access to Melbourne’s highlights. So, when they found a house in Richmond (close to former neighbourhoods and familiar stomping grounds), they knew it fit the bill. “This house is a 20-minute walk to just about everywhere: the city, Fitzroy, and the Royal Botanic Gardens,” says the owner.

“I also wanted a fun, relaxed, low-key home that would act as a bolthole,” she adds. “Large enough to have people over for dinner or to stay, but not so large as to have unused rooms or a massive garden to maintain.”

Built around 1850, the three-bedroom residence had undeniable charm (arched detailing, high ceilings and lovely exposed beams), but it desperately needed an overhaul. “The house was in very poor condition,” the owner explains. There were sloping floors to correct, fixtures and fittings added in a 1990s renovation to strip out, wet areas to comprehensively revamp, plus heating and cooling problems to address. The layout also had to change, with one bedroom needed to create extra living space. Furthermore, the whole residence lacked storage and needed custom joinery installed throughout.

As they set out on their refurbishment journey, the owners knew early on that they wanted a Tableau kitchen system from Cantilever Interiors. “It immediately appealed to us,” says the owner. “The style was contemporary and minimal yet warm and friendly. We loved the handles and the rounded corners.” They were also drawn to its customisable finish options, including natural stone. Furthermore, they felt its modular, furniture-like look would work well in the space, with the joinery sitting clear of the ceiling and leaving room for their home’s beautiful old beams to remain unobstructed.

At first, they just wanted a Tableau kitchen, but subsequently pivoted and signed up for the company’s full service interior-design package instead. From then on, Cantilever Interiors oversaw the entire home’s interior design and refurbishment plus all the furnishings, so the job went from ‘just the kitchen’ to, well, everything!

Choosing to refurbish presented opportunities to preserve some old materials.
“Refurbishment as a priority is a great thing because it reduces building materials, and allowed the retention of some existing elements still fit for purpose,” says Kylie. Other measures included double glazing the doors and windows throughout the living area, as well as maximising insulation and cross ventilation.

GOOD NEWS

“That isn’t unusual,” says Kylie Forbes, creative director at Cantilever. “Kitchens and joinery are our primary offerings, but once a client’s trust and confidence grows, sometimes the project does, too.” Taking up this combined service allowed Tableau’s form and style to be expertly echoed in all the custom joinery (from bedside tables to wardrobes, bathroom vanities and the concealed laundry), delivering absolute functionality and a bespoke feeling throughout. Furthermore, it also deepened the home’s overarching design story, cohesively chiming in with all the curated finishes, the lighting and the furniture selections.

In refurbishing the home, Kylie focused on elevating the property’s original character and quirkiness, increasing the functionality and storage, and adding powerful layers of clientled colours and art. Taking the owner shopping for granite early on certainly helped to advance the palette. “She [the owner] saw the green granite and said, ‘Oh my god, it’s stunning!’ That was a really exciting moment, and the granite was then used on the kitchen island bench, the fireplace and in the ensuite.”

And so, this a home which blends old with new, and weds practicality to unrestrained creativity. “The design process was intuitive,” says Kylie. “It evolved. The clients were lovely and very engaged, but also let me have space and just ‘do’. When there’s that deep trust, better things come out of it.”

Lessons learnt

“Refurbishments always have unknowns,” Kylie says. “Expect a few surprises when you renovate. As is often the way with refurbishments, things are discovered in demolition. You can have defined intent, but you can’t be 100 per cent certain of what’s feasible at that stage. It can also be difficult for a builder to assess things in the pre-demolition stage. One example in this project was the bathroom, because we had to work with an old fireplace structure, which is where we put the vanity.”

Cantilever Interiors is at cantileverinteriors.com and @cantileverinteriors

The post A revitalised colonial home in Richmond exudes modernised heritage charm appeared first on Homes To Love.

To help inspire you, we’ve pulled together our most popular small kitchen ideas. A kitchen is one of the hardest working rooms in the home and when you’ve got limited space, planning your kitchen can be challenging to decide which elements to keep and how to make everything work together.

While creating your dream butler’s pantry and installing an island bench that is big enough to seat your entire extended family is probably a bit ambitious, there are several clever tricks of the trade that can be used to help you maximise your available room, while also enhancing the feeling of spaciousness.

What is the best way to layout a small kitchen?

You can make some simple tweaks to your current tiny kitchen or start from scratch when working out the best design and layout. Be flexible to new colours and moving a few things around, there are plenty of small kitchen ideas that can have a big impact.

Stretch your cabinetry

Depending on your kitchen layout, it’s important to stretch your cabinetry as far as it can go. Think vertically when it comes to storage and make the most of every nook and cranny with clever joinery.

Max out your floor space

Simultaneously, if you’ve managed to fit in a kitchen bench with bar stools, opt for furniture with slim legs that keep the bulk of the piece off of the floor to give the illusion of more floor space.

Bring natural light inside

Maximise the natural light within your compact kitchen by using reflective materials like mirrors, brass and brushed steel. Not only will they maximise the light within the kitchen, but they’ll also lend a visual impression of larger space.

Bring in a butcher’s block

If the design of your small kitchen allows for only one bench, there might be room for a stand-alone butcher’s block. Stationed in the middle of your kitchen so you can still walk around it, a butcher’s block works as bench space or a place to chat (farewell friends and family getting under your feet).

What colour should cabinets be in a small kitchen?

White does lighten a room and gives space when there is little, but there’s nothing wrong with injecting some colour into your small kitchen. Sage green works well in small spaces, and creates calm instead of clutter. It has even made the kitchen in this houseboat look spacious!

It’s easy to buck the all-white trend when it comes to a small kitchen, and add interest and texture in other ways. For something elegant and crisp, a shaker style kitchen cabinet is a chic and enduring trend, and can be updated for modern and contemporary homes with a more daring colour. In traditional homes, shaker style cabinets are often painted in crisp whites and pale greys, with the shaker detail adding depth to the otherwise flat colours. More modern takes have seen cabinets painted in bolder colourways from deep blues to rich greens. Our tip though? Go for lighter hues rather than moody shades to keep the space feeling open.

16 small space kitchen design ideas

Custom V-groove joinery, brass hardware, glossy tiles, effective storage, and a leafy outlook make the small kitchen of this Double Bay townhouse appear bigger than it is.

Being on the smaller side hasn’t stopped the timber and neutral-hued kitchen of this Sydney home from achieving both form and function. Plenty of storage can be found in full-height storage, open shelves and a breakfast bar bench.

During pandemic lockdowns, this gorgeous off-grid cabin became the ultimate escape for its owners, stylist Emma O’Meara and her husband Simon. The kitchen in the log-style cabin (which is available for stays) blends the khaki and creamy tones of the surrounding bushland and is perfectly effective despite its small stature.

The kitchen of this London apartment is made of birchwood ply, giving it a light and bright complexion. The island is on lockable castors, giving the space an added layer of flexibility. “Whether we’re having a party or the kids are having a playdate, we can move the island to a nook under the oven and literally create floor space from nothing,” says homeowner Sean.

Small but perfectly formed, the kitchen of this Scandi-meets-Japanese-meets-70s-style holiday home is just right for the space. During the property’s renovation, the homeowners actually downsized the kitchen to make way for a larger dining area – a decision that suited their holiday style perfectly.

This small kitchen by Josh and Jenna, the two-time contestants from The Block who became professional designers/renovators, includes a brick splash back and plenty of hidden storage. The design plays to the idea of the Tiny House movement. “We live only with what we need because there’s simply no room for anything else,” says Jenna.

In this compact Paddington terrace to conserve space a custom dining table was built to connect with the kitchen island, transforming it into a multi-functional space.

The kitchen in this coastal Art Deco-style home proves that subtle splashes of colour is a great way to add style and depth to a small cooking zone. Having the rangehood match the wall colour is a clever way to make bulky items blend into the background.

By placing open shelving across the window, this small kitchen has gained more storage space without cutting out the natural light.

In the small kitchen of this Sydney apartment clever custom joinery provides ample storage throughout. In the corner cabinet below, hinged shelves inside swing outwards for ease of access and use.

This chic Brisbane pool house has been transformed into the ultimate rental guest home and makes the most of its limited footprint. A servery window in the kitchen transforms the bench into a breakfast bar and a wall-hung rail is the perfect storage spot for pots and pans.

To avoid this tiny kitchen area from feeling boxed in, only low cupboards have been installed. A simple palette also helps to maintain a light and airy feel.

In this renovated Federation cottage the dining table has been placed within the kitchen in order to double as additional bench space for food preparation. Cabinetry provides ample storage.

If your home is narrow, running your kitchen along the length of a wall like this one in this Balmain home is a great space-saving option. Sleek cabinetry paired with a glossy bench and splashback creates a modern, seamless look.

The sophisticated black cabinetry in the kitchen of this renovated Italianate Victorian home reach from the ceiling to the floor to provide as much storage space as possible.

A generous extended benchtop on this slim-line kitchen bench creates extra bench space that can also accommodate bar stools, transforming the heart of the kitchen into an additional seating space within this small eco-friendly home.

The post 16 small kitchen ideas that prove bigger isn’t always better appeared first on Homes To Love.

Style of home: A 1920s bungalow remodelled with high-impact style and oodles of storage.

Location: Sydney’s southeast, on the land of the Gadigal and Bidjigal people.

Timeline: From mid-2020, 18 months were spent renovating the main house, and another year on the pool and dwelling in the backyard.

White on white on white is how interior designer Gemma Gillett describes the renovation inspiration images client Bianca Orr shared with her in 2020. Whizz forward almost three years – the time it took to transform Bianca and husband Josh’s tired bungalow in Sydney’s southeast – and it’s clear that any fear of colour was met head-on. It’s also evident that the principal of Studio Gemma is an expert at joinery design. In this striking home, built-in custom cabinetry brings functionality, storage and a sharply tailored look to every space.

“Gemma told us at the start of the design process that storage is so important when you have children. We needed to make sure it was maxed out in every room,” says Bianca, who was a primary-school teacher before switching to focus on the renovation and Josh’s business (he owns Timewise Plumbing) while looking after their two children, Alfie and Zoe.

Zoe was only a few days old when Bianca and Josh took ownership of the block, with its primary residence in the front and a separate dwelling at the back (containing a yoga studio and leather workshop with a self-contained unit on top). The unconventional set-up appealed to the couple, despite the completely worn-out state of the two buildings. “We thought we could live in the back while the front was being renovated and then move into the finished front, work on the back, and add a pool,” says Bianca. “It was financially beneficial for us.”

Most of the interior walls and flooring in the main house had to go, and the front rooms were rebuilt with a traditional edge. Styles and Virtue was the builder and East 2 East Joinery was on the tools. “The four bedrooms and two bathrooms are in the old brick part of the house, so we leant into that fact,” says Gemma, who specified thick hand-poured plaster cornices, detailed timber window frames and Shaker-style cabinetry. “Every bedroom has custom joinery designed to look like it has always been there,” the designer adds.

While the colour-blocked bedrooms have an immediately cocooning effect, the mood shifts as you move towards the rear extension, where a soaring pitched roof and an expanse of glass (sliding doors) flood the open kitchen, living and dining zones with light. White walls are in play, but the finessed design details – such as rich timber highlights, microcement on the curved fireplace and a sage kitchen that swirls with subtle organic patterning – lend a delicious depth to the heart of the home.

“We used an oak veneer on the kitchen island and sprayed it with colour, which allows the grain to stay exposed and creates a great amount of texture and warmth, as opposed to a flat finish,” says Rhys Stratford, who is the co-founder of East 2 East Joinery, along with James Harding. Sophistication prevails in the living area, where a built-in walnut drinks bar signifies party time, and a built-in bench seat with storage under the window means toys and clutter can be quickly stashed out of sight.

In this home, the windows are arranged to maximise crossventilation, plus there’s concrete flooring to increase the thermal mass, and solar power for renewable energy.

GOOD NEWS

“It’s party land out the back, where we love to entertain,” says Bianca. “And because it’s all open, it’s really easy for me to keep an eye on the kids day to day.” The old yoga den and leather workshop is now a roomy cabana decked out with a colour-popped outdoor kitchen and hotel-style bar area overlooking the pool. A European laundry and glossy emerald-green powder room is tucked around the corner, and the transformed studio above is a decked-out retreat for overnight guests.

The finished home is an unapologetic kaleidoscope of colours, eras and styles. It’s the third renovation that Bianca and Josh have tackled, but with Gemma guiding them and expert trades deftly manifesting the design vision, the bold outcome has been meticulously shaped to suit the family and the way they live. “We love the whole house,” says Bianca. “There are so many favourite spaces and details. I guess the biggest lesson for me here was to be brave with decision-making. I think I would go even wilder with the next house. I love the idea of this being our forever home, but I would also love to work on another project with Gemma!”

“This is our sanctuary that nurtures us but it’s also our party house.”

BIANCA ORR, HOMEOWNER

Lessons learnt

“Don’t buy everything from one place,” says Bianca Orr, homeowner. “The furniture scheme was a joint effort between Bianca and designer Gemma, guided by one core principle. “Gemma didn’t let me pick too many things from the same retailer,” says Bianca. “It’s a really easy trap to fall into, and then your house looks like a catalogue, so we grabbed bits and pieces from absolutely everywhere.” Stockists include Facebook Marketplace, 1stDibs, Danish design houses and local furniture icon Jardan.

The post This once-tired bungalow brings the party with a kaleidoscope of colour appeared first on Homes To Love.

Style of home: Freestanding two-storey weatherboard cottage with a glamorous new look.

Location: Balmain in NSW, traditional land of the Wangal people.

Timeline: The couple bought the home in 2017, but didn’t make any major improvements until 2022. All the work was completed by September 2023.

The dream scenario for interior designers is when their clients ask for colour. Refusing to err on the side of caution with a restrained palette for their renovated home, Nicola and Tom Bodor briefed interior designer Caitlin Parker-Brown of Parker Studio quite simply – to just use colour, which she did. “These clients love colour as much as we do, so it made the whole design process such a joy,” Caitlin explains. “While we have used a lot of colour, the overall palette is still soft and earthy.”

Nicola and Tom purchased the home in 2017 from a retired ferry driver who had lived in the home since the mid-1960s. He extended the house himself in the 1970s with no insulation or council approval. The couple decided to leave the house in its original condition until mid-2019, when they did minor renovations to the kitchen and bathroom to make the house habitable until they commenced the big redo in 2022.

Tom’s stepfather, Bill MacMahon, a retired architect, worked on the plans, and design details, such as the much-needed skylights in the kitchen and above the stairs, were discussed over family dinners. Then, in February 2022, the couple engaged Caitlin to start the design process, with the renovation commencing four months later in June 2022.

Caitlin composed a palette that was colourful yet elegant. She did so by using muted tones instead of highly saturated bright colours. That has avoided clashes and makes the overall effect feel balanced. The material palette she chose – limestone flooring, walnut joinery and travertine stone – provides a soft neutral base, allowing the colours to shine.

One of the major challenges in the design process was the home’s internal staircase and the seamless appearance of the balustrade, which was achieved despite the presence of joints. To accomplish this, Caitlin worked in conjunction with the builder, MattBuild Group, and they opted for an inset steel stringer with treads in sophisticated warm oak.

The home’s exterior Vulcan cladding (Bandsawn in Sioo:x from Abodo) is eco-friendly, as are the limestone-tiled floors on the ground floor, and the Bauwerk limewash white paint in the lower part of the ground-floor area.

GOOD NEWS

In the kitchen, a collaborative effort between Parker Studio and MattBuild, there’s a clever balance of interesting colour and materials with innovative design features. One such installation is the chunky legs of the kitchen island. “That concept evolved during the design process,” says Caitlin. “We had a few curved elements throughout the house, so carrying this through to the kitchen seemed fitting. The chunky pillars for the island’s base help to support the stone top and create a focal point in the kitchen.”

Sage green joinery and oversized marble handles are two more unique aspects of the kitchen that are unexpected and playful. For continuity, the marble handles were custom-made from the same marble as the benchtops. After initially specifying terracotta marble for the kitchen and powder room, the designer faced a challenge when the material was unexpectedly out of stock. Caitlin embraced the opportunity for creative adaptation and opted for a coral-pink marble instead. The owners love its warmth and personality.

For the living area, built-in seating was designed to anchor the open-plan space, complemented by an earthy palette of olive leather upholstery and limestone finger tiles along the bottom of the unit. Colour was added via a rug, an armchair and a wall-hung string artwork by Graziela Guardino.

One of Nicola’s favourite rooms, and a surprise for guests, is the powder room. “We included some vintage Italian fixtures and fittings, which really stand out,” she says. “We let Caitlin choose eclectic wallpaper and made the room a feature.” While beautiful, the ground-floor powder room was another challenge for the team. Even though it had such a small footprint, Caitlin saw an opportunity to design a visually striking room that made the most of the pocket-sized space.

Nearby, the staircase leads up to a serene escape – the main bedroom – which has a curved wall detail and feels wonderfully tranquil. Its ensuite is entered through the walk-in wardrobe and has welcoming pink clay tones. Next to that is a study decorated with high-end wallpaper by Élitis and featuring dark walnut joinery, a signature used in various places throughout the home.

This home seamlessly blends colour and eclectic design in a design that’s comprehensively creative. “I love the colour palette and materials here,” says Caitlin. “Our clients were very trusting, which gave us freedom to push the envelope.

Lessons learnt

“Select bathroom tiles very carefully,” says Caitlin Parker-Brown, designer. “When choosing tiles for your bathrooms, be aware of their size and thickness. Then, be sure to do a tile set-out ahead of time with your tiler to determine where you will have tile cuts (to be avoided) and any potentially awkward junctions. Doing this will ensure the best result.”

Parker Studio is at parkerstudiointerior.com and @studio.parker. MattBuild Group is at mattbuildgroup.com.au and @mattbuildgroup

The post An instruction to ‘add colour’ took this weatherboard cottage to a joyfully elegant place appeared first on Homes To Love.

Today’s makers have better functionality and more brewing options than ever – and are surprisingly affordable. After all, this is the era of café-worthy domestic coffee machines.

Reassuringly, there are coffee machines for all tastes, lifestyles and budgets, from easy-to-use, low-cost pod machines to the full bells-and-whistles automatic espresso experience, plus beautifully stylish built-in options for anyone considering a kitchen renovation.

Here’s what you need to know…

Capsule and Pod Machines

Capsule machines are ideal for everyday coffee drinkers who want their caffeine hit quickly and conveniently. The low price point and user-friendliness of pod machines have helped people to migrate from instant coffee to espresso.

“We have seen a rise in capsule coffee machine sales – simply because people were looking to become their own at-home barista,” says John Kozsik, National Training Manager (Australia) at Lavazza. “Good quality capsule coffee machines are super convenient, simple to use and easy to clean – great for someone seeking café-grade coffee from their own kitchen!”

There has been concern about the environmental impact of disposable pods, but now there’s a huge variety of biodegradable pods available, along with recycling programs. The best way to recycle your empty pods is through drop-off and post-back collection schemes like those run by Terracycle. Nespresso runs its own recycling program allowing you to return your used aluminium capsules to a Nespresso boutique or post your used capsules back to Nespresso using a special Australia Post satchel.

Manual Coffee Machines

These super functional, high-tech options can look great on the benchtop and deliver a café-worthy cuppa. Manual machines give you complete control over the flavour, the pour, the taste and so on, which has made them really popular in recent years.

While they might seem trickier to use, getting the technique right usually only takes a few practice sessions. Most retailers of manual machines also offer training to ensure you are comfortable with the equipment before you start.

One thing to consider when you’re buying a manual machine: it may come with or without a steaming function. If you want the option of frothing milk and making your own lattes, cappuccinos or hot chocolates, make sure it’s included.

Automatic Coffee Machines

The next level up from manual machines, these products usually give you the ability to customise your coffee – from the grind to the final brew.

So if you have a preferred grind or style, you can even set up the preferences in such a way that all you have to do is press a button labelled ‘Clare’s coffee’ and your favourite half-strength long black is delivered.

John Kaye, head roaster at Sample Coffee, says the automatic machines are perfect for people who are particular about their coffee, but don’t have the skills or experience to operate a manual machine. “They are great for good – almost barista-quality – coffee, with minimal education required.

“And they’re not expensive, relatively speaking,” John adds. Breville does a very competitive price for the quality of their machinery. “I have one of their grinders at home and I’m pretty satisfied with its useability. Quite often, it’s not just brewing the coffee [that people find tricky]; steaming milk is very much a learned art as well. So if you have a machine that does it automatically, that’s a big bonus.”

Automatic machines are great for the untrained coffee aficionado. You load your beans in, set how fine you want the grind to be, and it will do everything else for you. So, all you have to do is press the grind button, put the beans in and hit the brew button.

Built-in Coffee Machines

Many of the larger kitchen appliance companies also make built-in coffee machines, which can help to keep the kitchen free of coffee-related clutter.

Built-in coffee machines can save on bench space and are a popular choice for those who prefer all their appliances to be integrated. Some use beans, some use capsules and some use the Nespresso system, but built-in machines come at a cost and require more maintenance than standard benchtop machines.

Brands such as Miele, Smeg, NEFF, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux and AEG all offer a built-in option to complement their cooking products. And let’s face it, if you’re going to install a Miele kitchen, why wouldn’t you put in a matching Miele coffee machine.

Many built-in machines, such as the Bosch Series 8 machine can produce two cups simultaneously, which is great for entertaining. At the top end of the market, the Gaggenau machine can save up to eight personalised coffee configurations.

Learn to use your coffee machine

When you purchase your coffee machine, ask about training to help you make the most of it. Some brands also have YouTube videos, which demonstrate all the functions.

Most big department stores have trained baristas you can talk to about coffee and how to find the right machine for you. If you’re in the market for a coffee machine, it’s a good idea to compare the flavour of capsule coffee versus beans, and work out whether you want to personalise your coffee by using a manual machine, or if you like the convenience of an automatic machine or a capsule one.

Sample Coffee’s John Kaye says barista courses can be helpful, too. “Steaming milk and brewing coffee can take a little bit of playing around so guidance is always quite handy. That kind of time investment always pays off.”

Best capsule and pod coffee machines Australia

01

Breville Nespresso ‘The Creatista Pro’ Stainless Steel Capsule Coffee Machine

from $1399 at Myer

Breville’s Nespresso Creatista Pro takes capsule coffee to a whole new level, pairing their extensive experience in designing heavy-duty coffee machines with the simplicity of coffee-in-a-pod. Housed in a sleek brushed steel design, the Creatista Pro can pour two cappuccinos in just 65 seconds, and features an easy-to-use touch screen interface to help you take coffee customisation above and beyond.

• Dual ThermoJet Heating System to simultaneously extract espresso and automatically texture milk
• Intuitive touch screen operation
• Fully-automatic steam wand

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02

Lavazza A Modo Mio Voicy Capsule Coffee Machine

from $250 at Amazon

Lavazza has teamed up with Amazon to create the world’s first voice-activated coffee pod machine: you say, ‘Alexa make me a coffee’ and an aromatic espresso appears. It’s like living with a barista (though, maybe not as cute as your local one). Alexa/Voicy can also do anything Alexa can do, such as tell you the news or play music. Don’t like talking (i.e. before your morning coffee)? You can also operate the Voicy remotely using an app. Not into tech? You can operate the Voicy the old-fashioned way – using your hands. The Lavazza app can also store personalised coffee orders and let you know when you’re running short on coffee pods (flavours of that include ‘Chocolate and Dried Fruit’ and ‘Cocoa and Spices’, yum).

• Connects to your smart devices to control them with your voice
• Built-in Alexa
• One-touch barista

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03

Vertuo Next Capsule Coffee Machine with Milk Frother & Aeroccino3

from $389 at Myer

Available in a variety of sleek colourways, Nespresso’s VertuoPlus coffee machine is a stylish addition to your kitchen benchtop. With a special design that rotates each coffee capsule up to 7000 times a minute, the VertuoPlus helps you extract the ideal brew from your coffee pods each and every time. Plus, the Aeroccino3 milk frother makes pouring a cappuccino or latte a breeze.

• Five adaptable brewing parameters
• Simple 1-button operation, automatic capsule ejection
• Paired with the Aeroccino3 Milk Frother which creates hot or cold milk froth for your milk coffees.

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04

Nespresso Lattissima One Capsule Coffee Machine

from $519 at The Good Guys

DeLonghi’s Latissima One Nespresso System is designed to take your capsule coffee further, courtesy of an innovative in-built fresh milk system which is specifically designed to texture and pour milk automatically. The clever system even highlights how much milk you’ll actually need per cup, ensuring there’s minimal waste involved. If you’re a latte or cappuccino fan, the Latissima is a great option to invest in.

• 25 second heat-up time
• Compact size fits perfectly on your kitchen benchtop
• Built-in automatic milk frother allows you to create lattes and cappuccinos at the touch of a button

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Is coffee from capsules worth it?

Pod machines are suitable for those looking for their caffeine quickly and conveniently. They have a lower price point and are more user-friendly than manual and automatic machines, and at the end of the day, offer a fairly similar end product.

Are pod coffee machines any good?

Good quality capsule and pod coffee machines are super convenient, simple to use and easy to clean. If you are looking for ease and simplicity with your morning coffee, the pod machine could be be your best bet.

Best manual coffee machines Australia

01

Breville The Barista Espresso Manual Coffee Machine

from $799 at The Good Guys

The best-selling manual machine, as the name suggests, Breville’s Barista Express is designed to deliver café-quality brews in as little as a minute. The integrated conical burr grinder delivers the right amount of freshly ground coffee for every cup, precise temperature control ensures optimal espresso extraction, and the steam wand allows you to hand texture microfoam milk however you like.

• Perfect coffee every time with the four keys formula (precision puck, extraction pressure, extraction temperature and microfoam bubbles)
• Auto grind & dose with an integrated conical burr grinder with 16 grind settings
• 54 mm stainless steel portafilter delivers full flavour with dual and single wall filters
• Low pressure pre-infusion followed by 9 bar extraction

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02

Smeg 50’s Retro Style Manual Coffee Machine

from $549 at The Good Guys

When it comes to making a major style statement in the kitchen, you can’t look any further than Smeg’s iconic retro kitchen appliances. Smeg’s 50s retro style coffee machine comes in seven different colourways and features a Good Design Award-winning compact design. As a manual espresso machine, the Smeg coffee machine allows you full control over your perfect brew from beginning to end.

• Five vibrant diverse colour finishes
• Three-button control
• Compact profile

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03

Sunbeam Mini Barista Manual Coffee Machine

from $329 at Myer

With a sleek and compact design, Sunbeam’s Mini Barista espresso machine is a manual coffee machine that allows you to tailor your cup of coffee however you like. With a 15mm Italian pump and a 58mm commercial size group head, the Mini Barista is designed to extract the best flavours and coffee from your coffee beans. It also features an Auto Shot Control setting that ensures the machine pours just the right amount for each cup of coffee.

• Auto Shot Volumetric Control, lets you pre-set single and double-shot measures
• Inspired by cafe machines, the Mini Barista uses a 58mm commercial size group head
• Powerful, full size steam wand

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04

DeLonghi LaSpecialista Arte Manual Coffee Machine

from $679 at The Good Guys

Fill your home with the aroma of freshly ground coffee every morning with Delonghi’s best-selling La Specialista Arte manual coffee machine. Featuring an eight setting conical burr grinder for a single or double espresso, an Active Temperature Control setting that maintains a consistent water temperature during the coffee brewing process and a MyLatte Art Steam Wand which helps create the silkiest lattes art ever

• 8 Grind settings, specifically developed to fit all varieties of coffee beans
• 3 Infusion temperature levels
• MyLatte Art steam wand

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Which type of coffee machine makes the best coffee?

Today’s makers have better functionality and more brewing options than ever, so there are coffee machines for all tastes, lifestyles and budgets. However, for true coffee enthusiasts, manual coffee machines, while the most technical, give you complete control over the flavour, the pour, the taste, to deliver a café-worthy cuppa.

Are manual or automatic coffee machines better?

While manual machines allow complete control over the output, automatic machines are perfect for people who don’t have the skills or experience to operate a manual machine but still want the café-worthy flavour. All you have to do is press the grind button, put the beans in and hit the brew button. As always, it will come down to personal preference and dedication to mastering the brew.

Best automatic and built-in coffee machines Australia

01

DeLonghi Primadonna Soul Automatic Coffee Maker

from $1999 at The Good Guys

For those who want barista-quality coffee without needing to deal with fiddly settings, DeLonghi’s PrimaDonna Soul automatic coffee machine takes care of all the fuss for you. The bulk of the heavy lifting comes from DeLonghi’s Bean Adapt Technology that has the PrimaDonna Soul automatically adapt its settings to create a perfect cuppa depending on your bean variety and roasting types. And the best part? The machine is Wi-Fi compatible, so you can brew your coffee straight from bed.

• Bean Adapt Technology to personalise the machine settings according to your beans
• Automatic LatteCrema System
• Self-cleaning function
• 4.3” full touch TFT colour display and Wi-fi connectivity

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02

Gaggenau 200 Series Built-In Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

from $7499 at Winning Appliances

Gaggenau’s fully automatic built-in espresso machine looks good from every angle, no matter where you put it in the kitchen. Designed to fit seamlessly alongside other major kitchen appliances and cabinetry, this sleek machine delivers on both style and function. Fully automatic, choose from a range of 12 coffee styles and then customise each brew to your own preferences for a seamless experience. 

• Maintenance-free grinding unit with ceramic discs
• Separate drawer for second ground coffee type.
• Save up to 8 individualised beverages
• Two cup brewing simulatenously

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03

Miele CVA 7440 VitroLine Graphite Grey Built-In Coffee Machine

from $6699 at The Good Guys

Miele’s stylish VitroLine Obsidian built-in coffee machine perfectly blends form with function. With a sleek design that is bound to suit any style of kitchen, the VitroLine’s Aromatic SystemFresh feature ensures freshly ground coffee for every cup. 

• Full touch DirectSensor controls
• 24+ beverage varieties
• OneTouch for Two
• WiFiConnrct

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04

Bosch ‘Series 8’ Fully Automatic Built-In Coffee Machine

from $4499 at Winning Appliances

Bosch’s state of the art built-in coffee machine is designed to take your kitchen to the next level in an instant. With a streamlined look, the automatic machine helps you create a truly personalised brew in an instant. Bosch’s OneTouch DoubleCup feature allows you to pour two cups of coffee at a moment’s notice, and the clever sensoFlow system ensures water is heated to optimal temperatures.

• Intelligent strength adjustment
• 6.8” colour display with touch and slide functionality
• AutoMilk Clean feature for combined descaling and cleaning program for less effort.
• High quality grinder made of wear-resistant ceramic

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What are the disadvantages of automatic coffee machines?

Automatic coffee machines are great for almost barista-quality coffee, where all you need to do is put your beans in, set how fine you want the grind to be, and hit brew. However, for the next step up in terms of flavour profile and control, an automatic coffee machine can’t compare to a manual machine. Little variances in bean freshness, humidity, and the amount of foam can’t be accounted for with an automatic machine, and require a human touch.

Do built-in coffee machines need plumbing in?

Built-in coffee machines come in many different styles, and whether you need them plumbed in comes purely down to the machine. Some do require plumbing in, whereas others will have a built-in water tank. However, if you value your convenience highly and want a fully automatic, fuss-free machine, you may want to consider plumbing in both the water and the drain. Speak to your product specialist to find out what suits you best.

The post The best at-home coffee machines for your café experience appeared first on Homes To Love.

The best silver plants for Australian gardens

Blue chalk sticks

Senecio mandraliscae

With an attractive silvery-blue tone and smooth-to-touch texture, this low-maintenance succulent spreads easily to form a dense ground cover.

Sun/Shade: Full, direct sun
Care: Rarely need watering or fertiliser
Size: Will grow to a height of 30 – 60 cm

Kalanchoe ‘silver spoons’

Kalanchoe bracteata

A small, compact, drought-tolerant succulent with oval-shaped leaves that resemble spoons, Kalanchoe is a medium-height plant that will add dimension above groundcover.

Sun/Shade: Full, direct sun
Care: Water weekly during hotter months
Size: Will grow to a height of 1 metre

Licorice plant

Helichrysum petiolare

A fast-growing and lush ground cover that suits most light conditions and soil types. Expect small, cream flowers in spring and summer. It also works well cascading from within a hanging basket.

Sun/Shade: Full, direct sun
Care: Water every 1.5 weeks or so during hotter months
Size: Will grow to a height of 1.5 metres

Silver falls

Dichondra argentea

Silver falls is a creeping plant with long, silver trailing stems. Use as a ground cover or hang in pots for instant impact.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Water regularly during hotter months, allow to dry out between
Size: Can reach lengths of up to 1.5 metres

Curry plant

Helichrysum italicum

An aromatic plant with silver-grey foliage and tiny button yellow flowers, use it as a low hedge, border or in containers. This hardy plant is happy in full sun to light shade and will tolerate winter frosts.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Water regularly until established (approx 12 weeks), then sparingly
Size: Will grow to a height of 30 – 60 cm

Silver spears

Astelia chathamica

An ornamental perennial with silver, flax-like foliage, it will fit right into a coastal or Mediterranean-style garden. It grows well in a sheltered spot with well-drained, moist soil. Pair with salvias and lavender.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Water sparingly, prune as needed
Size: Will grow to a height of 1.5 metres

Century plant

Agave Americana

With its majestic, sculptural shapes, this desert plant makes a dramatic focal point in a garden bed or decorative pot. Keep away from footpaths and walkways, as the spines are sharp. They can also be hazardous to pets.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Water sparingly, prune as needed
Size: Will grow to a height of 90 – 180 cm

Panda plant

Kalanchoe tomentosa

Easy to grow and super-resilient, its soft, silvery leaves have been likened to animal ears, hence the common name, Panda plant.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Water between 1 and 3 days a week as needed, especially when the soil is dry
Size: Will grow to a height of 30 – 90 cm

French lavender

Lavandula dentata

Also known as ‘Fringed Lavender’ this hardy, ornamental shrub flowers non-stop from early summer to late autumn in the right conditions. What it lacks in scent it makes up for in looks, plus it will bring butterflies and bees to your garden.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Water during dry periods, take care not to over-water
Size: Will grow to a height of 60- 90 cm

Dusty miller

Jacobaea maritima

With its soft, finely textured foliage, this plant looks good in both containers and garden beds, and will help tone down brighter blooms.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial afternoon shade
Care: Water occasionally
Size: Will grow to a height of 20 – 40 cm

Shrubby germander

Teucrium fruticans

An evergreen shrub from the mint family, which has pretty mauve-blue flowers on arching grey stems. It has a decidedly Mediterranean feel. Water well until established then leave to its own devices.

Sun/Shade: Prefers full sun but can grow in partial shade
Care: Water regularly to establish but ensure good drainage
Size: Will grow to a height of 120 – 240 cm

Lamb’s ear

Stachys byzantina

One of the most popular silver-leaved perennials, it works well as a low border or ornamental groundcover plant. Kids will love stroking its furry foliage.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Require about 2.5 cm of water per week
Size: Will grow to a height of 15 – 60 cm

Felt plant

Kalanchoe beharensis

A slightly eccentric-looking addition with velvet leaves and bold foliage. This plant can grow to a height of 90cm,and is ideal in pots or as part of a succulent garden.

Sun/Shade: Can tolerate full morning or afternoon sun, but requires shade at the hottest time of day
Care: Water every 2 – 3 weeks and sparingly, if at all, in winter
Size: Will grow to a height of 60 – 90 cm

Silver dollar plant

Crassula arborescens

With blue-silver, round foliage, this variety of jade is perfect for containers and can be pruned to shape. As per Chinese legend, place one by your front door to encourage money to flow into the household.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade depending on the climate
Care: Water regularly, especially during summer
Size: Will grow to a height of 15 – 30 cm

Blue fescue

Festuca glauca

This ornamental grass has steel-blue foliage all year round. The dense, blade-like leaves form a nice, neat shape, making it an ideal candidate for borders, edging and rock or cottage gardens.

Sun/Shade: Partial shade
Care: Weekly during summer
Size: Will grow to approximately 15 – 30 x 15 – 45 cm

Silverbush

Convolvulus cneorum

Silverbush known for its attractive silvery-green foliage and wide, open, white flowers that cover it from spring to summer. Easy to grow and very hardy, it prefers a full sun/partly shaded position and requires very little water.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Allow to dry out between watering
Size: Will grow to approximately 60 x 60 cm

Cushion bush

Leucophyta brownii

Perfect for coastal settings, this silvery-grey shrub will flourish in a sunny spot and resists wind and salt spray like a champion. It has a low-growing, bun-shaped habit, making it ideal for hedges, topiary or as a feature.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Water once a week
Size: Will grow to approximately 75 x 90 cm

Bismarck palm

Bismarckia nobilis

Hailing all the way from Madagascar, the Bismarck is a striking palm that will make a great feature in any garden that has enough space. Its large, blueish fronds grow to 3 metres wide and it can reach a height of 20 metres.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
Care: Every day for the first month, then sparingly once established
Size: Will grow to a height of up to 20 metres

Westringia

Westringia fruticosa

Also referred to as coastal rosemary, westringia is a dense, fast-growing shrub native to Australia. Its foliage and blooms range from white to mauve, blue and purple, making it ideal for adding both silver and tiny pops of colour to your garden.

Sun/Shade: Full sun
Care: Place in well-draining soil and water frequently after initial planting. Responds well to pruning.
Size: Will grow to a height of up to 2 metres high and 4 metres wide

The post 19 of the best silver plants for Australian gardens appeared first on Homes To Love.

This family home in Newcastle, NSW, is an open house in more ways than one. Not only does it welcome a seemingly endless stream of visitors, especially the friends of the three teenagers who live there, but inside and out blend seamlessly into one, providing the perfect setting for their active lifestyles.

But it wasn’t always like this. When the owners, Bill and Kellie, bought the brick bungalow in 2012, they were seduced by its near-century-old charms. “At the front, the 1920s house was still period correct, with lead lighting, cornices, ceiling mouldings and picture rails, and we loved that,” says Bill. But beyond, it was a mishmash of rooms from serial renovations, the most inspired of which had inserted two bedrooms in the roof cavity, creating four all up. Meanwhile, within the original footprint, the rear of the home had been rejigged for open-plan living but clumsily so.

To lift the look from ho-hum, they called in interior designers Courtney Atkinson and Marissa Hamling of Bone and Blanc Interiors in December 2020. Above all, the couple wanted to make the back section work better for their active family, especially as the poky kitchen was little more than a hole in the wall, according to Marissa, and hardly a gathering point for a family with all its coming and goings.

“The kitchen and living area were dark, with limited light,” says Bill. “In our previous house, the living area opened directly to the pool area – that was the first thing to address here.”

“We wanted somewhere all our family and friends could gather and spend quality time together, [that was] open and bright, with natural materials – resort-style living while keeping the home’s heritage charm,” adds Kellie. For the overall look, says Courtney, “They wanted a layering of textures and light, earthy tones – coastal Mediterranean with a mix of heritage.”

The front section, with its two bedrooms, including the main, a rumpus room downstairs and two bedrooms upstairs, functioned fine, but it would need a tweak to accommodate a new main ensuite. And the two existing bathrooms, both tired and dated, would need a refresh.

Courtney and Marissa shaved off the back and created a soaring new addition bathed in natural light. Moved from its alcove, the kitchen now luxuriates in space, anchored by American oak joinery, the airiness accentuated by a pitched, double-height ceiling. “Bill’s main desire was for a soaring cathedral ceiling to create a sense of spaciousness,” says Marissa. “It feels big and grand with the skylights.” The sightlines extend to the exterior with a wall of glazing, where an all-weather covered area echoes the pitch of the open plan. It provides continuity and connects both spaces to a remodelled pool area with spa. Meanwhile, in the existing house, space was borrowed from a bedroom to create an ensuite for the main bedroom.

Bill and Kellie retained the existing house at the front and made minimal changes in that section. With three skylights and a soaring ceiling, their new extension optimises light and provides plenty of cross ventilation. Quality materials and timeless design ensure they won’t need to renovate again any time soon.

GOOD NEWS

To create unity between two sections nearly a century apart, Marissa and Courtney took their cues from the period part of the house, with the addition boasting VJ on its pitched ceilings and replica stained-glass windows specially crafted for the kitchen. “We didn’t want to take away from the home’s heritage,” says Courtney. “But that is difficult when you add a brand-new back section.” The engineered European-oak flooring which runs throughout helps to unify it – no more mismatched floors. It’s also tough and resilient. The timber is complemented by walls in Dulux Snowy Mountains, a white chosen for its warm look without a yellow glow, says Marissa.

The finishes also had to have a “spontaneity, nothing too polished”, adds Courtney. This is perhaps best illustrated in the Mediterranean-inspired bathrooms. Their rectangular terracotta tiles (referencing the brick exterior) are set in a herringbone pattern, with prominent grouting sharing the limelight. Meanwhile, the living areas have linen sofas with slip covers that can cope with the demands of boisterous boys. “Those loose covers were non-negotiable,” says Marissa.

The result suits the active family’s needs swimmingly. “We love the indoor/outdoor living,” says Bill. “Even with the sliders shut, you still feel like you’re outside. The glass sliders and triangular windows allow the grandeur of the cathedral ceilings to flow from inside to out.”

“It really is an open house,” adds Kellie. “The boys are always bringing mates home, and we love to entertain. The indoor/outdoor living space is where we all spend time together. But the boys also have individual areas where they can hang out with their friends. It’s so right for us and how we like to live.”

Lessons learnt

“There is always a way. Sometimes it just costs more,” says Bill, homeowner. “Make sure your builder has the right attitude. A can’t-do is not what you want on a quality renovation. It’s important to be adaptable because no plans are perfect. You need to be ready to make a call and help, not hinder, the builder.”

Bone and Blanc Interiors is at boneandblanc.com.au and @boneandblanc

The post A brick bungalow with a soaring extension and a Mediterranean-meets-heritage vibe appeared first on Homes To Love.

Creating an inviting garden involves playing around with different types of plants that range in height, shape and colour. While vibrant green leaves are a tried and true classic, punctuating your garden with subtle silver plants, bright flowers, hardy perennials and, of course, purple plants adds the texture and tone needed for a beautifully landscaped outdoor space.

Here are our top purple plant picks that will thrive in Australian gardens.

18 purple plants for Australian gardens

Black rose

Aeonium arboreum ‘Schwarzkopf’

A flower-imitating succulent. Drought-tolerant, easy to propagate and flowers with yellow, pyramid-shaped flowerheads from late winter through to spring. It works as a single specimen in a pot, where it will thrive; just ensure free-draining soil and don’t overwater or it will rot. If you mass-plant in a gang, it starts to resemble a rose bush.

Sun/Shade: Full sun or partial shade
When to plant: Winter to early spring
How fast it grows: Slow-growing

Common sage

Salvia officinalis ‘Purpurascens’

Long-lasting herb that tastes great. Regularly picking the new leaves keeps it a tidy bun shape. A lilac-purple dusts the immature foliage on this cultivar. Contrasts well with silver/blue plants such as echium.

Sun/Shade: Full sun
When to plant: Spring or early summer
How fast it grows: 3 months, if grown from a cutting

Smoke bush

Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’ or ‘Grace’

The pinkish flower spray contrasts beautifully against the deep purple of this small tree’s foliage. Perfect for modern backyards, in autumn it puts on an extra show when the deciduous leaves turn from scarlet to pink and orange. Drought-tolerant and frost-hardy.

Sun/Shade: Full sun or partial shade
When to plant: Best planted in spring, but can be planted in autumn
How fast it grows: Approximately 30 – 60cm per year

Coleus

Solenostemon scutellariodes ‘Black Prince’

A colourful foliage plant that doesn’t demand much. The green stems contrast with its red-to-purple, scallop-edged leaves. As the blooms are fairly insignificant, pinch them out as they form to keep the plant at its bushy best.

Sun/Shade: Full sun or partial shade
When to plant: Early spring
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

Bugleweed

Ajuga reptans ‘Atropurpurea’

A low-growing groundcover with pretty blue, bee-attracting flowers in spring and summer. It looks great lining a pathway, planted en masse. Better in full sun but okay in partial shade; allow for air circulation around the plants to avoid powdery mildew.

Sun/Shade: Full sun or partial shade
When to plant: Early spring
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

Purple heart

Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’

There’s a blueberry-like grey ‘bloom’ that covers this plant’s purple foliage, making it extra mesmerising. Forms a trailing ground cover that will grow in shade and sunny areas in beds, pots or shallow soil around rocks. Has a weed warning so you’ll need to control it.

Sun/Shade: Full sun
When to plant: Spring or summer
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

False shamrock

Oxalis triangularis

This is one for collectors. The purple, clover-like foliage opens with the light and looks like resting butterflies at night, closing in half when it’s dark. Nodding pink flowers sit above the foliage. Powdery mildew can be an issue. It’s a bulb, so goes through annual dormancy; have somewhere out of sight to rest the pot until the plant’s new leaves start to grow.

Sun/Shade: Full sun or partial shade
When to plant: Spring
How fast it grows: Shamrocks will appear after about six weeks

Dwarf purple fountain grass

Pennisetum macrostachyum ‘Rubrum Compacta’

Has purple leaves and plumes of feather-like flowers that appear in summer and autumn. Great to watch wind blowing through when planted in groups. To rejuvenate for spring, mow or cut close to the ground at the end of winter.

Sun/Shade: Full sun or partial shade
When to plant: Anytime
How fast it grows: Slow to moderate growth rate

Honeywort/blue shrimp plant

Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’

Unmissable in the garden, this plant will self-sow when growing in a sunny position in well-drained soil. Come winter, its long-lasting purple flowers are surrounded by purple leaves up the stem, which eventually transform into a silvery green.

Sun/Shade: Full sun or partial shade
When to plant: Early spring
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

Crepe myrtle

Lagerstroemia ‘Diamonds in the Dark’

Grown in full sun, this deciduous crepe myrtle retains the purple tones of the juvenile foliage into maturity. It produces lots of white and pink (imagine the beautiful clash!) to red flowers from early spring until autumn. Use it as an accent plant in the garden (in pots) or feature as a hedge. Highly prized for its ornamental qualities.

Sun/Shade: Full sun
When to plant: Mid-autumn to early spring
How fast it grows: 30 – 60cm per year

Persian shield

Strobilanthes dyerianus

Native to Myanmar, this exotic beauty prefers its sunlight dappled. The immature bright purple foliage fades to pink with age. Tip prune to encourage a bushier plant, stimulating growth points to enjoy more of the dazzling young leaves.

Sun/Shade: Partial shade
When to plant: Early spring
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

Black mondo grass

Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’

Taking purple foliage to its darkest edge, this low, tufty, grass-like plant looks best planted in groups at the front of a bed. Lilac to pink flowers adorn it in summer. Its colour and textured leaf make it a fantastic contrast plant.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade (the more sun, the darker the colour)
When to plant: Early spring
How fast it grows: Fast-growing once established

Freckle face/polka dot plant

Hypoestes phyllostachya

Brightening up dark, shady corners of the garden, this is great in a vertical garden, hanging basket or pot indoors. Small purple flowers bloom in summer. It has weed status in Queensland and NSW, so keep it under control.

Sun/Shade: Partial shade/indirect sun
When to plant: Late spring/early summer
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

Purple basil

Ocimum basilicum ‘Osmin’

A relative of sweet basil, this annual herb grows quickly and easily from seed, delivering a striking colour in the garden. Bees love the flowers, which are long-lasting on the plant. You can also use them as an edible garnish for your meals.

Sun/Shade: Full sun
When to plant: Spring to early autumn
How fast it grows: Reaches full maturity in less than two months

Silver inch plant/spiderword

Tradescantia zebrina

The striped leaves of this groundcover shimmer with a silvery glow, depending on the angle, and the purple underside flashes as it clambers over itself. A great plant for shade and dappled light, it’s easy to care for in hanging baskets or at the base of pots with its foliage trailing over the edge.

Sun/Shade: Bright but partially shaded location
When to plant: Year-round
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

Pink fringe flower

Loropetalum chinense rubrum

This pretty shrub grows to 2m, with purple-red foliage and pink flowers that resemble fireworks from spring through to summer. Keep it clipped to a desired height as a feature plant or hedge. The growth pattern is horizontal, so it can bring an entirely new texture to the garden.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
When to plant: Spring
How fast it grows: Fast-growing

Little Ruby

Alternanthera dentata ‘Little Ruby’

A third of the height of common Alternanthera. Has bold burgundy foliage that is spreading and ground-hugging to 40cm. Once established, it thickens up like a purple carpet. Small pale-yellow pompom flowerheads appear in late winter to early spring.

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
When to plant: Spring to autumn
How fast it grows: Established by approximately 12 weeks

Bromeliad

Alcantarea imperialis ‘Rubra’

Much loved for its large rosette of purple-toned leaves, which get darker in cooler temperatures and also with more sun exposure. A tough plant that looks good in pots or garden beds.

Sun/Shade: Partial to full shade
When to plant: Spring to early autumn
How fast it grows: Slow-growing

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