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Design Expert Tips Interiors Addict Styling

How to Hamptons: An expert guide to the popular aesthetic

James Hardie has revealed that ‘The Hamptons’ is its most popular search term when people are looking at building new homes or renovating their existing homes, with its second most popular search term being ‘modern coastal’, considered a variation of The Hamptons theme. To help clear up what Hamptons actually is and how we can achieve the aesthetic, is Hamptons expert Natalee Bowen.

What is The Hamptons?

“The Hamptons can have many different variations but at its core is a mix of coastal relaxed sophistication that embodies a high-end layered look,” said Natalee. “Overall, The Hamptons is a classic, traditional style with open plan living and beautiful cabinetry throughout. It should be identifiable from the outset with a weatherboard façade and contrasting trims. While the interiors feature wooden flooring, details of shiplap (horizontal boards) and wainscoting (vertical boards on the lower half or third of a wall) and a neutral palette of layered soft furnishings,” she explains.

Variations on a theme

Increasingly, Australian homeowners are after individuality and diversity, and are reworking the Hamptons look to create architecturally designed, personalised variations. While there are the ubiquitous hallmarks of The Hamptons style, Australian homeowners have taken that style and morphed it into three main sub-categories: Traditional Hamptons, Contemporary Hamptons and Australian Hamptons.

Natalee explains the subtle differences between the three looks:

Traditional Hamptons

Traditional Hamptons is a classic style made obvious with soft grey finishes and detailed white trims. It is full of character and beautiful, heavy detail. Every nook is an opportunity to create a feature and layer to its fullness,” she says.

Contemporary Hamptons is typically more of a minimalist look, pared back and monotone in colour, using mostly a black and white palette and more masculine touches. Taking design cues from the urban environment such as stone, steel and cement-based cladding, gives a slightly industrial feel. It allows us to still reach out in detail, however when furnishing this look, we stick to more black than white. The use of wrought iron brass also defines Contemporary Hamptons.

Australian Hamptons is more laidback, with wider verandahs and pared back detail from the inside out. It is less fussy in its approach with a much more casual feel. The colourways are also more defined, using either a darker palette externally of blues and greys, or a white-on-white palate for a distinctly coastal look,” Natalee explains.

Australian Hamptons

According to Natalee, there is no right or wrong take on The Hamptons but it is important to take cues from the surrounding landscape. 

“For example, if you are in the suburbs you want to go with a colourway that creates a balance for the streetscape. Darker tones with darker roofs are generally used in dense areas and in leafier suburbs more lighter tones are used, such as grey and white. In rural areas we use grey and whites with lighter roofs that embody a farm style home with wider verandahs,” says Natalee.

Contemporary Hamptons

Trend watching in 2022 and beyond

As for future trends within The Hamptons genre, Natalee predicts adaptations to the theme with interiors but not exteriors. “What has been interesting is that the external façades still have the same distinct weatherboard and trim. However, internally we are seeing a few very distinctive looks.

“Classic is still very popular but modern coastal, defined as traditional coastal with a tropical twist, modern and country styles are all becoming more prominent and allow you to create your own character within the Hamptons style. I think this flexibility gives longevity to the overall Hamptons theme,” said Natalee.

Australian Hamptons

“Whatever Hamptons style appeals, there is no denying its lasting popularity with Australians. Perhaps it’s our mild climate and love of indoor-outdoor living that makes the Hamptons work so well in any Australian setting.”

For more inspiration, download James Hardie’s Hamptons Look Book

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Homewares Interiors Addict

Neale Whitaker’s new homewares inspired by country Australia

Popular media personality and interiors expert Neale Whitaker is bringing us a taste of his country home through his latest homewares collection.

Inspired by his country home and the nature that surrounds it, Neale’s spring/summer range features a range of versatile, earthy tones; the perfect collection of affordable, well-designed, contemporary basics.

“My new range continues to draw inspiration from the landscape and colours of my country home,” he said. “The collection is made from all-natural fabrics, including – for the first time – hemp.”

Sheet set – Clay

Neale has taken a considered approach to his new collection, designing pieces that will pair perfectly with his existing range. It features brand new bed linen, co-ordinating throws and cushions and towels in natural fabrics like linen, hemp and pure cottons. He has even added a new colour, Grey Gum, to the palette.

“Grey Gum is a beautiful, soft shade that shimmers somewhere between blue and silver grey. It reminds me of my favourite ghost gums, but also conjures the horizon of the ocean here on the NSW South Coast,” he said. “Mix Grey Gum with Granite or Oyster for a cool palette, or team it with Wattleseed for a palette that suggests the beauty of an Australian summer.”

Beercroft cushions

The Neale Whitaker N|W homewares range is now available in store and online at MyHouse.

Shop online

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Homewares Interiors Addict

New homewares from Deborah Hutton let you bring the beach home

Much-loved Australian media icon Deborah Hutton has drawn inspiration from her recent move to the NSW South Coast to create her latest spring /summer collection.

“Since moving to the South Coast, every day has felt like a weekend getaway and I want to give others the opportunity to create a sense of holiday and relaxation in their homes too,” she said.

“The idea behind my latest collection is to bring a relaxed weekend vibe to you. Whether you’re by the beach, in the city, even in the country you can add a touch of coastal luxe in your own home. And you can do so without breaking your budget, either.”

Quilt cover set

The collection features a range of luxurious bed linen, coordinating throw rugs and cushions, coverlets, towels, décor items and tableware.

While the recent sea change has been the main focus of Deborah’s newest collection, memories from travelling near and far have helped bring it together.

From a much loved trip to Morocco (Amira), walking through local palm forests (Palmetto) and wearing her favourite relaxed linen shirts (Sinclair) there is a touch of vacation throughout Deborah’s entire collection.

It includes bed linen sets, European pillowcases, coverlets, throws, blankets and cushions.

The HOME with Deborah Hutton collection is available now, exclusive to HOUSE Bed & Bath, in store and online.

Shop the full range

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Expert Tips Interiors Addict

5 easy ways to look after your plant babies from Melissa King

If you’re anything like me, your indoor plants don’t last too long. Whether you are a first-time plant owner like me or a well-seasoned gardener these simple tips and tricks from gardening expert and Scotts Osmocote ambassador Melissa King can help you be a better plant parent (without having to spend endless hours refining that black thumb). 

Tip 1: Don’t drown your plants with love

Over watering is the biggest killer of indoor plants. Wilting leaves can be a sign of too much or too little water (among other things). So if your house plants are sulking, don’t always assume that they are thirsty. Poke your finger into the soil first to see if it’s dry down to your second knuckle before getting out the watering can.

Tip 2: Some extra TLC never hurt

Give your house plants a regular wipe down with a moist cloth to prevent an accumulation of dust on the leaves. To give them a thorough clean, pop them in the shower every month or so to remove any build up, helping make them look shiny and healthy. You could also put them outside in the rain or sprinkle them with the hose before bringing them inside again.

Tip 3: Lighting is key

Some houseplants grow well in low light, others need it a bit brighter to flourish, so position them around your home according to their required light levels and keep them away from heaters and blasts of cold and warm air. 

Here’s a good rule to live by; If it’s bright enough to be able to read a book in a room with the lights off, then there’s enough light for your indoor plants to thrive. 

Tip 4: Plants like dinner too

They key to thriving plant babies? Food! Pick up Scotts Osmocote pour + feed. You don’t have to mess around diluting it in a watering can, simply pour a capful into the base of your plant every fortnight or when your plants look like they need a boost.

Tip 5: When was the last time you changed your potting mix?

If your plant babies are looking a bit tired or practically jumping out of their pots then it might be time to repot them. I recommend trying Scotts Osmocote potting mix for indoor plants, which is tailor-made to bring out the best in your green beauties. It doesn’t contain compost or pine bark, which are known to shelter pesky fungus gnats. Instead, it’s based on an expert recipe of Scotts Coir, Sphagnum Peat and Perlite, which provides the ideal foundation to keep your indoor plant babies looking fresh, green and lively.

For more on Scotts Osmocote

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Interiors Addict Kitchens

5 stylish kitchen design trends to look out for in 2023

With the new year around the corner, it’s time to look ahead at the trends 2023 will have to offer. With unique materials, earth-drawn colours and stunning, statement stone – kitchens are fast becoming the most luxurious place in the home. In order to properly assess what next years kitchens will look like, Kate Deakin-Bell, marketing manager at Neolith, reveals five of the biggest design trends we can expect to see in cooking spaces next year.


Neolith Bassalt Black

1. Earth-drawn colours and materials

Mother Nature will continue to inspire kitchen design in 2023, says Kate. “The new kitchen trends are more thoughtful and considered than ever and are all about enhancing the time you spend in your cooking space. The focus is on comfort and longevity, using beautiful, quality materials that will age gracefully and stand the test of time. Expect to see unpainted wood cabinetry, natural stone benchtops and splashbacks, and muted, natural tones inspired by the outdoors such as sage, olive and buttermilk, which combine to create a sense of calm.” 

2. Luxurious stone surfaces

Characterful stone benchtops and splashbacks are a key trend for kitchens in the year ahead, says Kate. “Homeowners are becoming braver with their stone choices, increasingly using it to express their personal style in the kitchen. While soft, understated stone colours and patterns will remain popular in 2023, expect to see stone in bold colours and with dramatic veining trending alongside them. Applied to benchtops and splashbacks, they look incredible paired with 2023’s rustic timbers and organic metal finishes.”

3. Statement islands

Forget boring kitchen islands – 2023’s iteration will be multi-use and packed with personality, says Kate. “The island is the hero of today’s kitchen, so it makes sense to see it receive the decorative attention it deserves.
 
“Next year, expect to see islands that feel less ‘kitchen-y’ and anything but off the shelf, including ones that resemble a piece of custom furniture, designs with curves, and islands with matchstick legs in powder-coated steel that give you space to tuck a few bar stools underneath – ideal in a compact kitchen. 
 
“With more of us working from home and taking up new hobbies over the pandemic – often at the kitchen island – you’ll also see more tech features, such as integrated charging stations, charging drawers and places for devices to sit while they’re being used.”

4. Darker timbers

Dark timbers are liveable, luxe and exciting – and they’re coming to a kitchen near you in 2023. “Rich timber species such as walnut and blackened oak have been popular for a while now, but they’ll really come into their own in 2023,” says Kate. “And what’s not to love? They are wonderfully versatile and suit everything from modern rustic, contemporary and eclectic to industrial-style kitchens. Dark hues are also incredibly forgiving in a family home.
 
“Expect to see rich timber used in ever more creative ways in cooking spaces – pair it dramatic, veined benchtops and splashbacks to create a show-stopping colour contrast, add dark floating timber display shelves to personalise your kitchen, consider integrated joinery handles, or bring in texture with contoured panelling.”

Neolith Abu Dhabi White

5. Natural, ageing finishes

While sleek, modern finishes such as chrome and stainless steel tapware and handles will never really go out of style, expect to see a growing trend for finishes that embrace the natural ageing process in the year ahead, says Kate. “Weathered brass tapware, which has a living, organic finish, is designed to show the patina of time, bringing warmth and character to your kitchen. Add touches of weathered brass to create an appealing contrast against streamlined, contemporary joinery and benchtops, or use it to bring rustic charm to a modern-country cooking space.
 
“Water-marking and spotting is normal with a weathered brass finish. You’ll find the areas you touch most frequently will develop a light, golden colour while those you interact with less frequently will age and darken.”

For more on Neolith’s sintered stone surfaces

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Expert Tips Interiors Addict RENO ADDICT Reno Products Reno Trends

Modernising a period home: Top tips on mixing the old and new

The lure of fresh country air, wide open spaces and a community feel continues to entice Australian homebuyers. Alongside larger, more affordable spaces, and the promise of a simpler way of life, comes the charm of older homes and their intricate period details. The cost of maintaining, repairing and restoring these features, however, can be significant.

Tom & Sarah-Jane’s master ensuite on The Block 2022

For those period homes that require a touch of modernising, knowing when to hold onto, or replace, original features can be a tricky path to navigate. CSR Gyprock have shared some top tips on how to retain the heritage charm of your country home while incorporating modern updates.

Blending old and new

One popular way to modernise a period home is to open up the original structure with a modern extension, resulting in a more spacious and airier floorplan. 

Contrasting period features against modern design can make a big impact architecturally, but it’s also important to retain a flavour of the old in the new. High ceilings, decorative cornice, chandeliers, door knobs and ceiling roses are typical hero moments in older homes and showcasing some of these features in a new renovation can serve as an anchor between the eras.

Rachael & Ryan’s master bedroom on The Block 2022

Whether you’re renovating or extending the home’s footprint, it’s important to retain the authenticity and character of the existing home,” says Renee McGinty, general manager of marketing for Gyprock. “The installation of interesting design features that stay true to the era can help set the scene.” 

Ceiling roses

A ceiling is an element that can easily transform the look and feel of a room and ceiling features can make an enormous difference no matter what style or era of your room. Ceiling roses have been used throughout the decades and come in a variety of designs from simple to very elaborate and ornate. The original purpose of a ceiling rose, particularly in large and spacious homes, was to provide a focal point for a high ceiling, as well as to enhance the aesthetic appeal of light fittings.

Bathroom Tom & Sarah-Jane

“The style you choose will largely depend on your current décor and any other pre-existing heritage features,” says Renee. Whether original or newly installed, a ceiling rose can add an elegant and sophisticated touch to a room. For example, incorporating decorative elements in bathrooms can provide a unique focal element and, when used alongside modern plasterboard such as moisture resistant Gyprock Aquachek, can signal a tangible blend of old and new.

“The trick to choosing the right ceiling rose is to consider the ceiling height and room size, and to match the smaller and larger diameters with the same patterns. You can select from different periods’ styles to suit your home or by a particular design, which helps if you are trying to match a cornice style or pattern in a room.”

Cornices

When renovating a home with a particular era in mind, there are ways to respect the character of the property, preserving the past while allowing for modern day living. Effectively, cornice bridges the junctions between walls and ceilings and today there are many modern profiles which, beyond function, work to make a striking style statement in a home. Throughout the eras, cornice styles have changed to reflect the building trends of the time and were typically known for their intricate and decorative mouldings. 

Ankur & Sharon’s walk-in robe on the Block

“Ornate plasterwork is often the defining feature of a heritage home and will give a clear reference to its period,” says Renee. “Understanding how the building was originally finished and following that lead will give the best result.”

Carrying the same detail throughout a newer or more modernised space in a period home, will result in a more cohesive design narrative reflective of its past. Beyond decorative moulding many other factors will contribute to the liveability and aesthetic impact of a period renovation. Consider paint colours, wall patterns, furniture and cabinetry to assist in maximising the charm. 

Rachel & Ryan’s master ensuite

With thought and planning you can create contemporary spaces that preserve a beautiful, timeless quality. You can speak with your builder about how to incorporate Gyprock Decorative plaster features when you are renovating or building. Made in Victoria, they are available to order from Gyprock Trade Preston.

More from CSR Gyprock

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House Tours Interiors Addict

Pro surfer Sally Fitzgibbons’ stunning luxury costal abode

Professional surfer and Olympian Sally Fitzgibbons has opened the doors to her stunning beachside home. Perched on the Gerroa headland in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Highline House has been inspired by nature and drawing from the land, sea and wildlife, it was a project from the heart for Sally, who was born and bred in Gerroa, and worked closely with her builder and friend, Simon Rees, to reimagine the original weatherboard beach shack.

“This project became my anchor and why I love the Gerroa headland so dearly,” says Sally. “My builder Simon and I love nature so much and let it guide us through the project, capturing the essence and beauty of the view through many portals, viewing windows, balcony spaces and garden settings.”

The resulting home is the height of Australian coastal living, a luxe and stylish revival that manages to retain the relaxed appeal of a traditional Australian beach shack. It encompasses a main bedroom and ensuite, guest bedroom, bathroom, kitchen/dining, a separate living room, study nook, private gym and swimming pool.

From the exterior, the home exudes a rustic charm, with its white painted walls and exquisitely landscaped gardens. It works to connect with the ocean at every opportunity through both the exterior and interior, with stepping stones, pathways, a large entertaining balcony and a myriad of viewing windows.

As much as Highline House has been designed to capitalise on its stunning views, through the interior, it also works to both capture and resist the fluctuating light of the day. Each room has been finished with premium Luxaflex blinds and curtains.

“The range at Luxaflex window coverings was so perfect to suit my project,” says Sally. “Just like the moods in the weather we experience at Gerroa, the rooms in this house spoke to a mix of Luxaflex treatments. The result allows you to enjoy every room in the house and to make it your own private sanctuary.”

Flooded in natural light, the kitchen dining area features a peaked floor-to-ceiling window, offering the main ocean view from the interior. To complete the aesthetic feel of the space, while also working to filter the heavy afternoon sun, the windows have been finished with Luxaflex Pirouette Shadings. Sally chose a linen fabric in the colourway, “Chamomile”, to harness and beautifully diffuse the light to preference.

Continuing the aesthetic appeal, further windows throughout the interior have been framed by the soft flowing effect of sheer curtains from the Luxaflex Abre range in the colour Froth, adding a further dimension to the elegant finish of the home. The sheer curtains were chosen to complement the Luxaflex Duette Shades which have been used in the front entryway and guest bedroom.

As well as adding an element of style, Luxaflex Duette Shades play an important role in helping moderate the temperature in a bedroom. Their unique honeycomb structure traps air, which provides a layer of insulation to help keep the interior warmer in winter and cooler in summer. The balance of light control, privacy and energy-efficient qualities they provide make them perfect for an Australian beach home.

Recognising that a dark and peaceful space for rest and relaxation is essential in a home that’s abundant in light, Sally selected the Luxaflex Duette shades in a blockout fabric for the main bedroom, which has become a hero moment in her day. “One of my favourite parts of the design, is waking up in the master bedroom, rolling over and pressing the remote control for the shades, and watching them rise,” Sally says. “It slowly reveals the pool, the ocean, the beach and then the mountains, the magic of this just gets me every single time.”

Throughout the interior, texture and neutral tones are layered through a repeated colour palette of white, black, and grey, the neutrality is enhanced vividly by the surrounding blues of the ocean. A scattering of natural elements such as timber and green foliage also works to connect the abundant views of nature.

“Highline House has a unique feel, with quirks that sometimes make it hard to give it one particular style,” says Sally. “It is a beach house when categorised, but it’s also open to interpretation, from the visuals of the salt-crusted rock platforms becoming the inspiration for the kitchen benchtops, to the warmth of the Baltic pine flooring and the history of the restored pieces from the original house, including the front door, oars and lifesaving ring.”

The deck area leading directly from the living room provides a perfect viewing point where one can sit and relax. Assisting again with impeccable form and function is the Luxaflex Evo MagnaTrack Awning, enabling balcony privacy whilst offering advanced sun protection and airflow for a more enjoyable entertaining space. Sally says, “It’s comforting to know that the awning can handle the diverse and unforgiving weather conditions we experience here, as they are engineered, and tested in Australia to handle such conditions.”

For Sally, the most satisfying aspect of the renovation is being able to enjoy the success of the finished project. “It is so satisfying to reach the end of the road and sit on the balcony with family and friends, looking out over my favourite view in the whole world.”

Shop Luxaflex window fashions here

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Expert Tips Interiors Addict Styling

Benjamin Moore colour of the year 2023 revealed

Looking ahead to 2023, what paint colour trends do you think will take over in Australia? Luckily for us we can find out with Benjamin Moore releasing their 2023 colour of the year. And in 2023 their colour of the year is…

Raspberry Blush 2008-30

Raspberry Blush! It’s a saturated red-orange that enlivens our surroundings while awakening our senses with charismatic colour. This vivacious colour is unapologetic in its boldness as it encourages a confident colour statement.

“Colour is coming back into Australian homes and Aussies should feel empowered to move away from pure white walls. Raspberry Blush and the Colour Trends 2023 palette deliver whole bodied paint colours that can be used to form statement transformations for incredible results,” commented Brian Hamilton, general manager for Tenaru, the Australian distributor of Benjamin Moore paints.

Raspberry Blush

Leaning into deeply saturated colours with undeniable charisma, the Colour Trends 2023 palette celebrates the use of colour to influence dramatic transformations. As living spaces are often an expression of individuality and personal style, Australians should move towards a bold statement and the palette empowers designers and homeowners to take colour to unexpected places.

Here are seven other Benjamin Moore paint colours from the Colour Trends 2023 palette:

  • Conch Shell
  • Wenge
  • Cinnamon
  • New Age
  • Starry Night Blue
  • North Sea Green
  • Savannah Green
Savannah Green 2150-30

To commemorate this year’s selection, Benjamin Moore enlisted Canadian electro-funk duo Chromeo to underscore the upbeat and optimistic tone of the palette and the dynamic role colour plays in self-expression, much like music. Chromeo’s new single, Raspberry Blush, celebrates the positivity and enjoyment of life that both colour and music can influence. Designers and DIYers alike can experience the Colour Trends 2023 palette through eight specially curated playlists that reflect the personality of each colour and the spirit of the palette on Spotify. It’s certainly different!

For more information

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Designers Interiors Addict Real Renos RENO ADDICT

The Block’s over but Shaynna is back this week with something new

For 14 seasons we’ve seen Shaynna Blaze as a judge on The Block, as well as helping homeowners spruce up their spaces on Selling Houses Australia. Now, for the first time, Shaynna is doing it for herself and her family in the heartwarming new series, Country Home Rescue with Shaynna Blaze, set to premiere this Wednesday at 7.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Shaynna and daughter Carly

In Country Home Rescue, Shaynna, together with her children, embarks on the restoration of a dilapidated historical home in regional Victoria. Watch as they navigate through a never-ending maze of problems when their grand plans are sideswiped by building restrictions, frustrating delays and a huge budget blowout.

Carly, Shaynna and Jess

It will take every ounce of passion and persistence to turn this renovation nightmare into the forever home of their dreams. But you’ll be amazed as it’s revealed, room by room.

In episode one, Shaynna dreams of turning a 130-year-old country house into her family’s forever home. The run-down property was originally purchased as a film set for the family’s first filmmaking project. Now Shaynna wants daughter Carly and son Jess to chip in and build the dream together. She just has to convince them first!

As she plots out the renovation strategy, christening rooms with their very own ‘titles’, we get a sneak peek into the complex (and sometimes off-the-wall) machinations of her design imagination. The plan sounds simple: renovate the existing house and features to create the perfect country home retreat, but the house, and its 1890s DNA, has other plans for Shaynna’s workload and the budget.

We can’t wait to tune in as the judge becomes the renovator and to see Shyanna in the role of mum too! It’s bound to be a goodie!

Country Home Rescue with Shaynna Blaze, 7.30pm, Wednesday 16 November 2022, on Channel 9 and 9Now.

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Interiors Addict Recipes

Foodie Friday: Tom Walton’s green goddess pasta salad

From chef Tom Walton, this one is sure to steal the show this summer. Fresh, vibrant and zesty, it’s the summer salad you’ve been waiting for. A gorgeous dish that’s easy to whip up, it makes a festive side plate for entertaining, Christmas parties or taking along to summer BBQs. This recipe is made with Delcado avocados.

Tom Walton’s green goddess pasta salad

  • 4 Delcado avocados
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 cup natural yoghurt
  • Pinch of dried chili flakes
  • 2 handfuls of basil leaves
  • 2 handfuls of flat leaf parsley leaves
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 cobs of corn
  • 500 g spiral pasta
  • 200 g diced bacon
  • 2 tbsp tiny capers
  • 1 punnet grape tomatoes (halved)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup semi-dried cherry tomatoes
  1. To make the Green Goddess sauce, scoop the flesh of 2 Delcados, the lemon zest, juice, yoghurt, chili flakes, and half the basil and parsley into a blender with some salt and pepper to taste. Blend to a smooth sauce. Taste and adjust if needed, and set aside.

  2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to the boil and cook the corn cobs for 5 minutes, then remove (but do not drain the water). Set the corn aside and allow to cool.

  3. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook for 9 minutes (or according to pack instructions). Drain, then refresh under cold water and drain again.
  4. Meanwhile once the corn has cooled, cut it off the cob and set aside.
  5. Cook the bacon in a frying pan until crispy. Add the caper for 2 minutes toward the end to become slightly crisp and fragrant.

  6. Roughly chop the remaining parsley and combine in a large mixing bowl with the cooked pasta, corn, tomatoes, bacon, and capers. Pour in the avocado sauce and olive oil. Toss gently to combine and season to taste.

  7. Scoop the remaining 2 Delcados from their skin and cut into large wedges. Add to the salad, tossing a couple times more to mix.

  8. Serve the salad scattered with the semi dried tomatoes and remaining basil leaves.

TIPS:

  1. Delcados are the ideal choice for this dish thanks to their smooth, buttery texture, making for a perfectly creamy Green Goddess sauce. Delcados are slow grown, left on the tree for nearly twice as long as other avocados to let their rich, unique flavour develop.

  2. For effortless entertaining, you can prep the Delcado Green Goddess sauce, pasta and corn ahead of time and keep them separately in the fridge. Simply mix everything together and add the final touches when you’re ready to serve.

Dinner, Lunch
Australian summer, avocado, pasta, salad, summer lunch

See Delcados

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Interiors Addict Real Renos

A blend of old and new influences transform Edwardian-era home

Pop Architecture worked alongside Beatrix Rowe Interior Design to carefully transform the extension and renovation of South Yarra House. This spectacular renovation combines the original Edwardian-era features with striking contemporary design and materials that work together to maximise natural light. Located in the same-named area in Melbourne’s south, South Yarra House showcases how embracing simplicity and natural elements can breathe new life into a home. 

The client’s brief stipulated a focus on light and flow throughout new and existing areas, respect for the original Edwardian features, and a preference for curved edges and real materials. “This brief lead to a strong passive design philosophy and further exploration of the core idea via strategically placed glazing and the effect of light on curved forms and carefully selected materials,” says Justine Brennan, director at Pop Architecture. 

A sculptural corbelled brick form anchors the addition of the red brick Edwardian home. Drawing inspiration from its surroundings, the home is heavily centred on the majestic Eucalyptus tree towering over the north-facing backyard. The impressive tree is immediately visible upon entering the Edwardian portion of the house through the introduction of a clerestory window in the main entry corridor. The tree continues to reveal itself as you move through the house. 

In addition to the Eucalyptus tree, the design took inspiration from “the distinctive ornate brick chimneys punctuating the surrounding skyline” as well as the “dramatic effect of the northern sun hitting the otherwise nondescript corrugated iron fences in the back laneway. The ivory colour, curved parapet, and textured vertical corbel of the brick element, distills these influences into a simple yet striking focal point of the house,” describes Justine. 

The single-storey addition sits at the rear of the existing, renovated home, which opens to the garden and courtyard space. A rooftop terrace sits on top of the addition, as an extension of the outdoor area. Throughout the home, subtle curves and an amalgamation of textures add modern touches and a point of difference. The original central corridor at the front of the home, opens up to a shared living, dining and kitchen space. Its vaulted ceiling and architrave detailing emphasising the Edwardian-era characteristics of the home. Curved plaster and rounded smooth stone cultivate an element of sculptural design and contrast in the home. Highlighting this contrast is the difference between the strong solid materials, like brickwork, stone and hard plaster in contradistinction with gentle elements like timber fretwork in the existing portion of the home. This contrast is embodied in the bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen.

A key standout in the home is the brick form. “We had always conceived the sculptural form as having a vertical striated effect to evoke the qualities of the light-play we loved in the existing back laneway. While we explored many materials and applications to achieve this, it was bricks laid in the corbelled method that finally allowed us to create this effect,” says Justine. Adbri Masonry’s sandhurst stone quarter height concrete block in ivory was the ideal choice to achieve this. “We wanted a solid, slim format brick but with beautiful texture and tone. The Sandhurst Stone concrete block worked perfectly and allowed us to meet our intention of laying bricks vertically in a stepped fashion,” added Justine. 

The sculptural brick form is featured in the addition of the home, creating a seamless flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The brick form wall stretches from the kitchen and laundry indoors, to the outdoor patio, including a woodfire pizza oven. “The construction of the feature brick form itself was one of the most satisfying parts of the project. Once the selected brick had been decided, it was a very collaborative process to resolve the final detailing which greatly enriched the design outcome. The bricklayer recalled learning the ‘corduroy’ method on one of his first ever jobs over 40 years ago, and was excited to revisit the technique in a contemporary way,” says Justine. 

“Now a fully functioning and reimagined brick home, the owner often remarks that they enjoy living with such an interactive brick element. They particularly love the way the brick form takes on the characteristics of the day, changing colour and contrast as the day unfolds,” remarks Justine. 

For more on Adbri Masonry

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Furniture Interiors Addict Smart Home

Apartment living and small space ideas trending on Pinterest

New insights from Pinterest have revealed that good things come in small packages, with Aussies looking to better utilise the spaces in their homes, with a 35% increase in searches for “space saving furniture”.

In this evolving economy, less is more and based on their searches, it seems many Aussies on Pinterest are being inspired to shift to a minimalist lifestyle. With people increasingly working from home, making the most of the available space has become more important than ever before. Pinterest insights show a 40% increase in searches for “apartment living” as Aussies search for inspiration to jazz up their compact living spaces.

If your home has been feeling stale with all the clutter, now’s your opportunity to find inspiration to transform every nook and cranny into something refreshing. 

In the past four weeks, Pinterest has seen a:

  • 55% increase in searches for “small playroom ideas”
  • 35% increase in searches for “small bathroom interior”
  • 30% increase in searches for “small pantry design ideas”

Whether you’re planning an easy and fun new project this spring or a complete living space revamp, Pinterest can be a great place for interior design inspiration.

See more Pinterest inspiration here

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Interiors Addict Outdoor & Exteriors

Be cool around the pool with Italian style this summer

Anyone who has watched the 2017 film Call Me By Your Name, knows just how good Italian swim-ware fashion is. Pool Buoy, the team behind the stylish inflatable pools that exploded on Instagram last summer, are launching their new and extended collection LA PISCINA to take care of all your summer needs with this Italian inspired flare.

LA PISCINA brings the Italian Euro summer to your home with a new range of luxury inflatable pools, lavish lilos, pool floats, beach towels, hats and coolers to make this summer your best one yet. Pool Buoy is changing the way we summer by giving any outdoor entertaining area a way to vacay in style from their own backyard. It has contemporary and quirky designs that are guaranteed to make your summer one to remember.

The new LA PISCINA Pool Buoy collection consists of three new cheeky patterns:

Lucky Lorenzo – He’s the over familiar and over friendly summer fling, knows all the best lookout spots. Rides an orange Vespa which dictates his wardrobe choices daily. Secretly to no-one his mum still does his washing,

Frivolous Fran – When she has too many spritz, she insists on being referred to as Franny for short. Spends her days laying by LA PISCINA, over tanned and no one can tell if it’s fake or real anymore. She’s a floral delight.

Hourglass Amber – A sex siren, curves in all the right places. She’s as vague as she is see-through. A virgo but is out of sorts because mercury is in retrograde.

Founder of Pool Buoy, Rae Maxwell, said the new LA PISCINA collection was an ode to the Italian European summer we all wished we were at. “This collection was inspired by evocative Italian summer scenes of slick speed boats along the shore, bathing beauties perched on sun-drenched rocks and colourful sunbeds along the European beach.”

Designed for buoyant personalities, Pool Buoy is not only fun and family friendly, but environmentally responsible too. All designs are made with no nasties, heavyweight vinyl that is BPA free and are extra durable to use summer after summer.

Shop LA PISCINA collection here

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Interiors Addict Recipes

Foodie Friday: Breakfast marmalade & coconut cake

This week’s sweet treat is made from Barker’s of New Zealand Breakfast Marmalade.

Breakfast marmalade & coconut cake

A sweet dessert using Barker's of New Zealand's Marmalade

  • 1 1/2 cups Whole wheat flour
  • 3 tsp Baking powder
  • 1/2 cup Shredded coconut
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Barker’s Breakfast Marmalade
  • 1 tbsp Lemon zest
  • 1 cups Milk
  • 125 mg Butter (melted)
  • 2 Egg
  • 2 tbsp Icing sugar
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup Water
  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan forced, 350°F, gas mark 4).
  2. CAKE MIX: grease a 20cm round cake tin. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Pour batter into the tin. Bake for 40 minutes. When cooled, remove the rim and transfer cake to a cooling rack
  3. SYRUP: combine all ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil then simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring, until the mixture is reduced and syrupy. Allow to cool to room temperature before serving.
  4. To serve, drizzle syrup over individual cake slices when serving
Dessert
breakfast cake, cake, coconut, marmalde
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Architecture Interiors Addict

Sydney Open: Unlock the harbour city’s most significant buildings

Sydney Open, the city’s premier and much-loved open building weekend, returns this weekend on 5 and 6 November. Sydney Open 2022 unlocks the doors to more than 50 of the city’s important historic and architecturally inspiring buildings and spaces, many usually off limits to the public. The Sydney Open is the perfect way to rediscover the beauty and little known history of the city.

Distinct activities are held on each day of the weekend.

Roslyn Sharp House, interior, Sydney Open 2022 (c) Roslyn Sharp

Saturday 5 November, focus tours

The Focus Tours reveal some of the secrets and stories of Sydney’s best loved and most intriguing spaces. Held in smaller groups and led by expert guides, they offer a more personalised behind-the-scenes experience.

Explore Parramatta

Be one of the first to discover the spectacular new PHIVE building, a bold architectural statement redefining civic space in the heart of Parramatta, and learn about the history of the Female Factory, Female Orphan School and Our Lady of Mercy College.

First nations

Come and learn about the local Aboriginal history and culture of the Gadigal people on the Giba-Nura tour of The Rocks and explore the Tranby Aboriginal Co-operative Heritage Campus, Australia’s oldest independent Indigenous education provider.

Tranby

Domestic bliss

Be inspired by a guided tour of Woodlands, the 19th-century house where Ethel Turner penned Seven little Australians, and take a rare glimpse inside Wirian, the home of the late artist Martin Sharp. Visit Lindesay in Darling Point for a rare chance to see the stunning Gothic Revival mansion by night, and marvel at the award-winning Cremorne Point Apartment on the other side of the harbour.

Maritime stories

Go behind the scenes of the Barangaroo Boat conservation project, which is conserving the oldest known colonial-built vessel in Australia, and venture to below-deck areas (never before seen by the public) of the Daring Class destroyer HMAS Vampire II at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Woodlands Killara

Sunday 6 November, city pass

The City Pass unlocks more than 25 buildings to visit at your own pace. Explore some of the newest and most innovative buildings in the CBD, including the new Quay Quarter Tower, an impressive example of adaptive reuse, and the Poly Centre in Circular Quay. Architects and experts will lead free drop-in talks and tours as part of your City Pass.

The Great Synagogue Sydney (c) James Horan for Sydney Living Museums

Heritage gems

Visit the Official Residence and Office of the Governor of NSW,Government House, and the impressive early-20th-century Registrar General’s Building. The World UNESCO Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks is right next door, and across Hyde Park is the Anzac Memorial, one of Sydney’s most significant public monuments. Don’t miss out on seeing the beautiful series of early Australian stained glass panels at St John’s Church, home of the Genesian Theatre Company.

Returning favourites

Admire the stunning Beaux-Arts façade of 50 Martin Place, once the city’s most expensive building, then venture inside to see the award-winning modern workspace and striking steel-framed glass dome offering unique views of the city. Visit the ever popular Sydney Masonic Centre, the head quarters of the Freemasons and an icon of Brutalist architecture, and the majestic and stately Great Synagogue, the oldest surviving synagogue in Sydney. Tour the historic rooms of Sydney Trades Hall, the office and meeting place for NSW trade unionists from 1888.

St James Children’s Chapel, Sydney Open 2022 (c) Chris Shain

Whether you are interested in architecture, photography, learning more about our city or spending a great day with friends, there’s plenty to enjoy and discover at the Sydney Open 2022.

Full program and tickets here

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Interiors Addict Travel

Mind boggling Airbnb ideas to become reality in Australia

From tens of thousands of entries from around the world, 100 aspiring designers, architects, and DIYers from 23 countries have been chosen to bring their crazy ideas to life and share in the US$10million OMG! Fund from Airbnb. And four of them are in Australia!

Sitemap for bubble on top of a mountain

The winning ideas stood out for their unique and inspiring design, sustainable consideration, and novel ways of offering immersive guest experiences. Recipients will each receive up to US$100,000 to make their fantastical creations possible.

Four Australians have won a share in the ‘OMG Fund’ and over the course of the next 10 months, will design, construct and outfit their dreams to be guest-ready by next summer. And here they are…

Eco-Igloo by Catherine W

The Eco-Igloo dome home will be built using 6,000 handmade aircrete bricks. Made up of four large domes which blend seamlessly into nature, the property is perfect for Aussie climates and it is a game changer to help more people achieve beautiful and affordable builds.

Luxury bubble on top of a mountain by Timothy H

Inspired by a sky full of stars and the power of reconnecting with nature, a stay in this luxury bubble will make you feel like you are floating on top of the world. Located a stone’s throw from the world-famous Wilsons Promontory National Park in Gippsland, Victoria, the bubble is also eco-friendly and sustainable, with the deck made out of recycled timber, and equipped with energy-saving appliances, low-flush toilets and low-flow showers using tank water.

Model of luxury bubble on top of a mountain

“My inspiration came after sleeping under the stars in a small tent when I was in France last year,” said Timothy. “The idea was to create an out of the ordinary, yet unique and accessible experience for guests. The result is a transparent bubble high up on a mountain top with 360-degree views of the night sky, fields and oceans below.” 

Kangaroom floating pod by Matt D

“We want to provide guests with a unique Aussie experience, to deliver a genuine connection to the landscape, and at the same time, inspire sustainable living and make eco-tourism mainstream,” said Matt from Melbourne on his Kangaroom floating pod idea. 

Model of Kangaroom

Utilising almost 80% glass to seamlessly connect guests with their natural surroundings, Kangaroom will be designed using modular pods to create a floating Airbnb stay situated on a kangaroo playground in Daylesford, Victoria. The property hosts an abundance of wildlife and will act as a ‘reverse zoo’ where guests reside in a comfortable and luxurious space, while being close to nature. The multi-level structure will levitate over panoramic views of the kangaroo habitat, leaving guests transformed with a new appreciation for the environment and empowered to make changes in their own lives for a sustainable future. 

Ultimate Airbnb on plane at an airfield by Mary C

After saving two Boeing 737 aircrafts from being scrapped, OMG! Fund recipient Mary dismantled and transported them to York, WA. Guests will be able to stay in one of these aircrafts at an airfield, while the other will be used as a tour experience. The aircraft will come with two en suites and can accommodate up to six guests. 

Concept of Ultimate Airbnb on Plane at an Airfield

Guests may find these unique homes available as part of Airbnb’s OMG! category in summer 2023.

See more from Airbnb OMG! range here

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Interiors Addict Recipes

Foodie Friday: Vegan dark chocolate, nutmeg & Oreo cheesecake

This week’s delicious desert is from Winning Appliances’ culinary expert Reece Hignell. “This beautifully rich baked cheesecake with a hint of nutmeg is light, smooth and so decadent – and vegan too.”

Vegan dark chocolate, nutmeg & Oreo cheesecake with rich chocolate ganache

  • 1 packet (133g Oreo Original biscuits)
  • 40 g margarine (melted)
  • 600 g vegan cream cheese (at room temperature)
  • 200 g vegan dark chocolate (melted ½ cup (110g) caster sugar)
  • ¼ cup 55g brown sugar
  • ¼ cup 35g cornflour
  • ¼ cup 25g cocoa powder
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste Chocolate ganache topping
  • 100 g vegan dark chocolate (broken into pieces)
  • ¹⁄ ³ cup (80ml coconut cream Fresh berries, to serve)
  1. Preheat oven on top and bottom heat set to 160°C with low steam. Grease and line the base and sides of a 20cm round springform pan with baking paper.
  2. To make the base, place biscuits in a food processor bowl and pulse just until fine crumbs are formed. Add margarine and process until just combined. Press firmly and evenly into the base of the prepared cake pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
  3. For the filling, place cream cheese into a stand mixer bowl; beat on a low speed until smooth; gradually add chocolate. Add caster and brown sugar, sifted cornflour, cocoa powder and nutmeg and vanilla; mix until smooth. Pour over the biscuit base and smooth the surface.
  4. Place cheesecake on a universal tray on level 1 and bake for 55 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool for 30 minutes before transferring to the refrigerator to cool completely, about 2 hours.
  5. To make the ganache, place chocolate and coconut cream into a heatproof bowl; heat in the microwave oven on 600W for 1 minute; stir, then continue to heat, stirring every 15 seconds, until the chocolate is fully melted. Set aside to cool and thicken slightly.
  6. To assemble, remove cheesecake from the pan and place onto a serving plate; spread with chocolate ganache. Serve with berries. Recipe notes Vegan cream cheese is quite soft and smooth, so it doesn’t need much beating to make it smooth. It’s available in most local supermarkets. Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can substitute cinnamon for nutmeg and add grated orange rind for a lovely jaffa flavour.
Dessert
cake, cheesecake, chocolate, dessert, vegan

Shop Appliances Online

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Design Interiors Addict RENO ADDICT Reno Products

Caesarstone branches out into new porcelain surface range

Caesarstone have unveiled their first ever porcelain collection. Leveraging their 35-year legacy of craftsmanship and innovation – they introduced the first quartz surface in 1987 – they’re now attempting to master the porcelain surface for both interior and exterior use.

Caesarstone Porcelain Striata used in a project by Studio Minosa

The three pillars of this new advanced technology comprise a fortified frame (providing an extremely hard surface that is exceptionally resistant to scratches, pressure and rupture), a high heat structure, that will withstand extremely high temperatures (hot objects can be placed directly on it), and great design in the striking colour schemes, bolder veins, palpable textures, and magnified patterns.

Caesarstone Porcelain Beige Ciment and Sleet used in a design by Studio Minosa. 

The company’s design team, together with Li Edelkoort, one of the world’s leading trend forecasters, have created the Light Collection and designs range from a virtual pure white (Whitena) through warm white stone effects to dramatically striated stones (Archetti and Striata), plus a polished concrete finish (Concrita).

Each slab is produced from natural materials, such as clay, feldspar, quartz and natural oxides. The slabs, with a 12mm profile, provide a far greater opportunity for creativity than many other surfaces. Their 1600 x 3200m size means larger, sweeping expanses of joint-free surfaces can be achieved.

Caesarstone Porcelain in Striata

In keeping with Caesarstone’s environmental sustainability commitment, porcelain carries the Greenguard, HPD (Health Product Declaration), LBC (Living Building Challenge) Red List Compliance, CE (European Conformity) and Kosher certificates of approval.

Caesarstone Porcelain can be used both inside and outside the home – its surface is resistant to UV rays as well as chemicals, food spills (like red wine and beetroot) and extreme heat. 

Caesarstone Porcelain Beige Ciment and Sleet. Design by Studio Minosa.

There’s a deluxe range for $800 per sqm, supernatural range from $1,050 per sqm and the supernatural ultra range from $1,200 per sqm.

See the Caesarstone range here

Caesarstone Porcelain in Sleet