Author: Olivia Shead

When she's not writing for Interiors Addict, Olivia is now a TV and radio news producer. She's a journalism graduate of UTS Sydney.

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Bedrooms Designers House Tours

Sydney’s newest 5-star boutique hotel

Visiting 100 of the world’s most luxurious boutique hotels in 20 countries, it’s safe to say Lancemore Group CEO Julian Clark had a lot of inspiration. Taking the best bits from each, he has today opened Larmont Sydney, a 5-star boutique hotel in Potts Point.

The first CBD property for the family-owned company, the hotel seamlessly brings together European luxury with Scandinavian simplicity. Fancy a mini-bar stocked with Dom Perignon? What about a choice of luxe spa products to pamper yourself in-room? Or even a private balcony for your fur baby to sunbathe in solitude? Larmont Sydney has it all. “We wanted to create a hotel that draws on the best features of hotels around the world to bring together foodies, wellness enthusiasts and design conscious guests alike,” explains Julian. “Our ethos of true generosity is evidenced by integrated luxury, technology and genuine hospitality.”

Designed by global architecture firm HASSEL, the boutique hotel features 103 rooms and suites across seven floors, with harbour and city views. “Our guests have pretty great homes to live in when they’re not travelling,” says Julian. “So with every choice we asked ourselves ‘is this better than what I can get at home?’”

Luxury finishes include marble benchtops, leather bedheads, freestanding baths and separate rain showers; combined with must-have technology like Apple TV and Bose Sound Touch. When it comes to food, guests can order from local restaurants via Deliveroo and UberEats or dine in the adjoining restaurant, The Hyde. Best yet, they can enjoy happy hour with a complimentary first drink and canapés.

Book a night at Larmont Sydney | Other beautiful hotels

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Bedrooms Competitions Designers Styling

The country’s 50 most jaw-dropping rooms

Designed by Lisa Burdus

I have a confession: I am addicted to house porn… and don’t worry it’s not as X-rated as it sounds. Rather, it’s the act of checking out the most lust-worthy, jaw-dropping residences and dreaming of winning the lottery so you can call them home!

Designed by Adelaide Bragg

The 2017 House & Garden Top 50 Rooms is perfect for fellow addicts. Now in its 19th year, the competition celebrates the crème de la crème of Australian residential design. Whittled down from hundreds of entries, the rooms are as diverse as they are stunning with beautifully functional kitchens to ingenious living spaces and dreamy bedrooms.

Designed by Lisa Burdus

This year’s overall winner is a luxurious sunken living room, designed by Melbourne architect, Dina Malathounis of Junctions90. Blending a neutral palette with a spectacular open fire, it has oversized glass windows that lead to the backyard.

Designed by Dina Malathounis

With an esteemed judging panel including Australian House & Garden‘s editor in chief Lisa Green, interior designer Dana Tomic-Hughes of Yellowtrace and colour expert Lucy Sutherland; the categories range from Best Kitchen to Best Use of Colour and Best Use of Materials.

Designed by Louise Walsh
Designed by Splinter Society

Six states are represented in the Top 50, with a blind judging process guaranteeing an unbiased result. As Room of the Year designer, Dina receives a trip for two to Paris for the Maison & Objet fair in January 2018. We are jealous!

For more information | Inside the country’s most enviable homes

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Bathrooms Designers RENO ADDICT The Block

Turn your bathroom into a Nordic oasis with Julia and Sasha

Who better to ask about renovating and building than two of our favourite ex- Blockheads? Reece have teamed up with some of our favourite stars from the show to create six new bathrooms and endless inspiration.

Today, we’re checking out the designs of Julia and Sasha who have taken on the trend: Nordic Minimal. With two designs for two budgets (everyday and luxe) they share their tips and tools so you too can transform your bathroom into a Scandinavian oasis.

Everyday Nordic Minimal 

A reinterpretation of the popular Scandinavian look for the everyday home. Think muted colours, clean lines and minimal design. Wanting a seamless space, Julia and Sasha made the vanity the feature. “We selected a round shape because it’s soft to work with the theme,” explains Julia. “We then carried the look through to the shower, too.” When money’s tight the duo recommend spending on tapware but saving on tiling, by not tiling every wall.

Everyday Nordic Minimal

The luxe version 

Create luxury with fine lines, neutral tones and a restrained aesthetic. Feature incredible centrepieces and add interest with a mixture of geometric shapes. “Choose a hero piece,” says Sasha. “Think decadent freestanding baths, indulgent double vanities or dramatic mirrors.” Also spend big on the tapware: “In any bathroom, tapware is the thing you interact with, touch and feel most frequently.” Finally, enrich the room with luxurious materials like a solid surface bench top.

Luxe Nordic Minimal

Reece’s top bathroom trends | All our Block coverage

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Art Interviews

The evolution of an artist: Morgan Jamieson’s latest series

We’ve had our eyes on the work of Melbourne artist Morgan Jamieson for quite some time. In fact we featured her all the way back in 2014! Her style is extremely memorable; fun, vibrant and clashing (in a good way). However, while florals have long been the subject of choice, Morgan’s latest collection has seen her mature, transitioning away from her once go-to technique of watercolour.

“The series was created using a combination of acrylic and oil paints,” explains Morgan. “Working with oils was completely new to me — so it was very much an experiment! I’ve learned to love working with them, the colour is so much brighter and denser than that of acrylics so it was a nice balance.”

Heavily inspired by flowers, particularly dahlias, proteas, wattles, ranunculus and peonies, Morgan has also drawn inspiration from the intricate details of fabrics and patterns. “My latest series is bold, imperfect and experimental like actual living florals,” says Morgan. “The technique, mediums and colours have evolved from my previous collection. I think its important that the work is still recognisable as my own but equally as important to evolve from series to series.”

Morgan is kept busy. Working as a graphic designer for a boutique agency, she also runs a print and stationery label, Colour & Skulls. But earlier this year, Morgan added another string to her bow… becoming a mother. “The juggling act is going slowly! I timed it so that I could release this series just after Bass arrived and I am planning on getting back into the studio in December… watch this space.”

With the dream to hold a solo exhibition, that’s Morgan’s next goal. But for now, she’ll be having a much deserved break, with baby Bass in tow.

See more of Morgan’s work. Orders and commissions can be arranged via Greenhouse Interiors.

Styling: Julia Green | Photography: Annette O’Brien.

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Interiors Addict

Australia’s best architects design tiny six-by-ten-metre homes

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City living is in hot demand. But what sacrifices would you be willing to make to get that prime location? Would you be prepared to max out your bank account? Buy a fixer-upper with none of the funds to actually fix it up!? Or how about live in a tiny house?

Celebrating sustainable, small-scale architecture, Melbourne’s upcoming design exhibition MINI LIVING – INVERT has challenged 14 architects to design a home fit for a family of four on a unique six-by-ten-metre site(!) at the rear of 200 Little Collins Street in central Melbourne.

Each architect will exhibit their designs as well as a 1:20 scale model on the CBD site from tomorrow until Sunday (4-to-8 October). Free talks will be held on Thursday and Friday October 5 and 6, where the architects will share the inspiration behind their designs. Videos of the talks will be posted after the event.

Held by Green Magazine in collaboration with MINI and the City of Melbourne, RMIT architecture students have also been asked to participate, one of whom will have their work shown at the MINI lIVING – INVERT exhibition.

Book your free tickets now | More design exhibitions

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Bedrooms RENO ADDICT The Block

The Block series 13 guest bedroom week room reveals!

Can you believe it’s week 9 of The Block? How time flies! The guest bedrooms marked the last reveals inside the homes, meaning next week it’s garden week. My favourite! But I’m getting ahead of myself.

Last night we saw the fourth and final bedrooms revealed, which had actually been the original 48-hour challenge bedrooms. They were all unrecognisable and they were all fantastic. Here’s what the judges had to say.

Jason and Sarah (second place with 28.5 out of 30)

As the only team to not have had an outright win, Jason and Sarah were starting to feel the pressure. And while earlier in the week they were pushed over the edge (after all it’s not The Block without drama!) the end result was, in the words of Neale: “Absolutely beautiful.” The judges loved the colour palette, bedhead, art, wallpaper and execution. The hydronic heating also got a shout out: “I’m like a cat at the moment, I can’t move,” said Shaynna. The judges congratulated the couple on perfectly merging the period features of the home with the modern additions. “This is the benchmark for today and it’s a pretty high one,” said Neale.

Our picks to buy: Flowers for Kate Obelia Gum Blossom Limited Edition Print and Freedom Julien Cushion in Sapphire

Hannah and Clint (fourth place with 25 out of 30)

With funds at an all time low, flatpack furniture came to the rescue… but more on that later. Upon entry, the judges loved the colour palette, textures, bed and bedsides. Then they spotted the wardrobe. “This is one of my favourite little tricks if you’re running out of money because it’s actually a flatpack,” explained Darren. Neale liked it, but thought it was too dominant, suggesting they get rid of the floral wallpaper to calm the room. The judges agreed it was still a good guest bedroom, but the bar was just set too high.

Our picks to buy: Beacon Lighting Leconic Contra Pendant in Black and Life Interiors Isabelle Queen Bedhead

Ronnie and Georgia (first place with 30 out of 30)

With two wins for the week already (the challenge and Domain room), Ronnie and Georgia were after the hat-trick and they knocked it out of the park, delivering a guest bedroom and ensuite. “Wow that’s some big impact,” said Darren, catching a glimpse of the floral wallpaper. “It’s absolutely amazing,” agreed Shaynna. The judges loved the upcycled $50 wardrobe with its wallpapered shelves. “People are going to be blown away by the romance of this room,” said Neale.

Into the ensuite and the judges were wowed. The basin got big ticks: “This is probably one of the best basins I’ve ever seen,” said Neale. And my oh my do I agree! (It’s by former Blockheads Matt and Kim if you’re interested). The judges were seriously impressed that the couple managed to include an extra bathroom without compromising on space.

Our picks to buy: Nood Co Bowl Sink in Blush Pink, Freedom Stiletto Occasional Table in Marble & Black and Life Interiors Wedgwood Arris Rug

Sticks and Wombat (third place with 28 out of 30)

Last week, the boys chalked up their very first win, so in the hope of taking the title again they got tech-savvy! Installing a ceiling box, with a press of a button it opened up to a TV: “This is actually really clever and really cool,” said Darren. The judges applauded the pair for how far they had come, agreeing it was a flexible room that buyers would love.

Our picks to buy: Sherren Comensoli Fallen Angel Print and GlobeWest Aura Bobble Rug

Josh and Elyse (also first place with 30 out of 30)

“Beautiful,” said Shaynna upon entry. “This is my favourite colour palette of the day,” added Darren. “It’s not something you’d see if you opened a magazine.” Neale piled on more praise: “The room feels totally modern, though everything except the art is quite classical.” The velvet bedhead got big ticks, as did the textures and accessories; even the mug on the side table got a shout out! The judges agreed the couple’s bedroom had the most appeal: “It’s not polarising any market,” said Shaynna.

Our picks to buy: Matthew Thomas Zoe 2 Framed Artwork, Heatherly Design Sackville Bedhead in Ellison Seamist Velvet and Freedom Palm Beach Collection Glass Cloche

All our Block coverage.

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House Tours RENO ADDICT

From beach shack to ultimate seaside pad with Three Birds

The holiday home of Bonnie Hindmarsh was once a humble beach shack in Pearl Bay on the NSW Central Coast. But then, Bonnie’s life changed. With best friends Erin Cayless and Lana Taylor, they started Three Birds Renovations, the now well-known team flipping uber stylish houses for insane profits. So it was decided, it was time for Bonnie’s home to get a makeover! Today, they’re sharing the living room.

The shack had been renovated over the years but was certainly not perfect! They’d ripped up the old carpets and painted the walls and ceilings white, white-washing the original pine flooring and adding a couple of French doors to the lounge area and dining. The deck was another new addition which they extended, as well as renovating the kitchen.

Three Birds teamed up with online retailer Zanui to finish the home off with beautiful furniture and homewares. With the brief to create a fresh and relaxing home with a distinctly beachy vibe, the interior decorating was made easy thanks to Zanui’s extensive options.

“I just love their wide range of choices and it’s really easy to shop,” says Bonnie. “Take their artwork for example, you can filter by colour, theme and price – and then you get a heap of options. Their products cover absolutely everything from sofas to beds to bar carts and crockery. I was like a kid in a candy shop! We loved the challenge of making over every single space with their range, it was like putting together a giant fun puzzle where everything fits seamlessly. We’re seriously thrilled with the results.”

In this video Bonnie, who is the styling queen of the trio, talks us through what she chose for the room and why:

 

When it comes to renovating a holiday home, Bonnie has a few tips for keeping it in tip-top shape. “Consider adding an outdoor shower and tap so you can wash yourself off after a beautiful day down at the shore! And consider light-coloured flooring to hide any sand that happens to sneak past the outdoor shower!”

Giving your home a makeover can quickly add up, so forget about any form of structural change if cash is tight. “If you can afford to, repaint the walls and floors as it’ll make a big difference,” explains Bonnie. “If that’s still a stretch, change the space using new furniture, homewares and artwork. As a last resort, a few new cushions on your couch is a step in the right direction for that extra pizazz.”

More from Three Birds Renovations | Other house tours

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Designers House Tours RENO ADDICT Styling

House tour: Santorini style on Sydney’s north shore

Dubbed their biggest renovation challenge ever, best friends turned expert renovators Lana Taylor, Erin Cayless and Bonnie Hindmarsh (of Three Birds Renovations) recently completed a three-storey, three-bedroom, three-bathroom, modern Mediterranean-style villa in Sydney’s north. But there was some added pressure, with the house being Lana’s family home! “It’s been a beautiful house and I love it to death but the floor plan wasn’t built for a growing family,” explains Lana. “Our main aim was to build a beautiful home to last a lifetime.”

The new design involved completely flipping the house layout on its head, by placing the kitchen and living areas downstairs and linking it to the garden. The middle level, aptly named ‘kid’s world,’ became the domain of Lana’s two young children; while the top floor was converted into the ultimate parents’ retreat for Lana and her husband Jason.

The parents’ retreat boasts a luxurious master bedroom, walk-in wardrobe, ensuite, open-plan office space and a sunny terrace. Inspired by Greece, the ensuite is white with a turquoise fish-scale tiled feature wall and just like the beautiful white-washed Santorini homes, a skylight above the shower bathes the room in natural light.

On the middle level, each child has a large bedroom, plus there is mud room, a large bathroom and a media room with glass balustrade that overlooks a void into the family area below. “I’ve always wanted a well-fitted out mud room,” says Lana. “So I created an ‘urban mud room’ with floor-to-ceiling shoe shelves for my family to take shoes on and off and get rid of those bulky school bags.”

Once a self-contained granny flat, the bottom level is now home to an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area. Large windows, glass doors, high ceilings and white walls provide a light, fresh and welcoming space for the family to cook, eat, play and relax.

The all white kitchen is paired with neutral stone benchtops and a matching splashback. “I wanted the stone to be the hero of the kitchen,” explains Lana. Connecting the interior to the exterior is a large gas-strut window, allowing for easy al fresco dining all year round. And on the other side of the kitchen is not a butler’s pantry but a butler’s office! “The butler’s office was simply born out of the lifestyle that we lead,” says Lana. “I’m always on my laptop and I don’t want to be hidden away in a study when my kids are in the family space.”

The finished home is beautiful (what we’ve come to expert from the girls at Three Birds!) and Lana couldn’t be happier: “It’s not just the perfect family home, it’s also an expression of my style and showcases the expertise and attention to detail we have to all our projects.”

–The Birds used Gyprock in this renovation. To create a private oasis for Lana and Jason, Gyprock Soundchek™ plasterboard was used in the master suite. A high-density plasterboard with increased noise absorption properties, Soundchek has been specifically designed for internal walls and ceilings to reduce noise transfer. Gyprock Sensitive plasterboard  was selected for the kids’ area.  It’s a revolutionary hypoallergenic plasterboard that is the first and only residential plasterboard to be approved by the National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program as a better choice for asthma and allergy sufferers. Treated with a powerful but gentle anti-fungal agent, Sensitive is designed to resist mould growth.

More from Three Birds Renovations | Other house tours

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Appliances Expert Tips Homewares

6 tips for nailing this year’s spring (summer!?) clean

Spring cleaning is one of those things that beforehand sounds horrible, during is even worse, but after? After you feel phenomenal… it’s a bit like exercise really! So to make the process easier we spoke to Jessica Bragdon, founder of natural cleaning range Koala Eco about her top tips for nailing this year’s big clean (and yes you should still do it, even though it’s nearly summer).

Cull before you clean 

Your spring clean is a great time to get rid of any clutter or items around the house that you don’t need or want. Once you’ve done that, take everything off the shelves and surfaces and brush them all down with a feather duster. Then use a dust-brush or crevice tool on a vacuum to reach the tight spots and wipe all surfaces down. Once the cleaning spree is complete, return your belongings (only the ones you wish to keep) back to their rightful spots.

Work from the top down

When it comes to dusting, always work from the top of the room down, finishing off by vacuuming the dust that settles on the floor. Remember not to neglect hard-to-reach places such as the tops of ceiling fans and window casings.

Kitchen capers

Attack the stubborn surface grime on benchtops and kitchen cupboards with tea tree or eucalyptus oil or a solvent-free degreaser. Each of these options can also be used to remove stubborn bacteria that resides in fridges and microwaves, thanks to the powerful yet natural properties of essential oils. Make sure to give the kitchen bin a good rinse and wipe down too, it’s a dirty job but worth doing a few times a year, at least! Finish up by mopping the floors with one-to-two tablespoons of soap mixed in a bucket of warm water.

Don’t forget the furniture 

Furnishings and upholstery can house an endless supply of dust so remember to take cushions outside and give them a gentle beat. If there are stains, wash them as per the care instructions and use your crevice tools to clean between cracks and under seat cushions. Likewise, many draperies and curtains are machine washable, so check labels before giving them a good wash and vacuum. Use beeswax to clean wooden furniture and blinds. Simply melt it and mix it with a few drizzles of olive oil and a few drops of essential oils (for example peppermint) and then leave it to cool before rubbing into the wood.

The bathroom blitz

Spray and scrub the bath, shower, basin and toilet. Plus wipe down air vents, light switches and fixtures, as well as things like toothbrush holders and soap dishes where lots of bacteria can lurk. Bicarb soda is a wonderful ingredient to unclog and clean drains and shine up chrome and silver bathroom taps and fixtures; to clean sinks and fixtures simply sprinkle the bicarb soda directly onto the surface or onto a soft sponge and begin scrubbing in circular motions. Finally, use a glass cleaner to give the mirrors and shower screens a super sparkly shine.

Clean living

The living room isn’t a place that we ordinarily think needs much cleaning beyond a good vacuum, but if you’re going for gold start with dusting the ceiling, floor moldings and wall corners. Next wipe down the walls, ceilings and light switches with soap mixed with water, which can also be used to polish wooden furniture. Finally it’s time to clean the windows. For a quick and easy homemade window cleaner, mix in a spray bottle 50% white vinegar and 50% tap water. Simply spray the solution directly onto the window and wipe with newspaper. After cleaning the windows both inside and out, give each space a good vacuum, not forgetting to dust lamps and vacuum lampshades.

— Koala Eco boast a sleek-looking, highly versatile range of chemical-free, eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaning products. The range uses high concentrations of Australian essential oils, combined with plant-derived ingredients to provide all-natural cleaning power for every room and surface.

 For more information | More expert tips

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Art Covet my coffee table Interviews Styling

Covet My Coffee Table: With artist Felicia Aroney

The Sydney home of artist Felicia Aroney is Hamptons with a twist. Beautifully furnished, the walls are adorned with her own paintings and those of up and coming artists; while shelves and tables house photos and mementos. Stylish but homely, we had to take a peak inside her living room.

The two coffee tables act as the focal point of the living room; a practical place to rest a cup of tea, and also something to dress up. “They do have an important role in the room both functionally and atheistically,” says Felicia.

Bought from Lavender Hill Interiors (who she has partnered with on a series of fine art prints), Felicia stumbled upon the tables while on the hunt for some Hamptons-inspired pieces. “Incredibly, they have each been carved out of one piece of wood, so for me they are basically art. I love them because they are light enough to move around the house. I don’t like being restricted to one area. Depending on my mood or the light, my tables move with me.”

Fine Art Print by Felicia Aroney for Lavender Hill Interiors

Placed on the coffee tables are a mix of sentimental items. Worry beads bought in Greece (“I honestly feel when I touch them I’m in the Mediterranean”); a pear ornament, part of a large collection; sterling silver shoes bought from a quaint little store in Sydney; and a cookbook written by Ralph Lauren’s wife Ricky, based on the gorgeous homes they have shared over the years.

When it comes to styling, Felicia recommends keeping things fresh and changing the aesthetic with your mood. “Treasure your coffee table as your own creative space. I don’t let my kids throw their things on there, it’s my sanctuary. Every week I change it up, I don’t necessarily buy new things, I just find little treasures around the house.”

For more on Felicia | Browse our other coffee tables

Photography by Susan Papazian

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Design Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Tips and tricks for making sure your timber lasts the distance

Photo credit: Peter Campbell-Lloyd, Deck-Max QLD

Sydney just had its hottest September day on record! So on this side of the world, it sure feels like winter is over. During those dreary, cold months it’s safe to say your outdoor space had a bit of a beating, which means now is the time to bring your timber back to life and ensure your garden is ready for the change in temperature and all the entertaining that goes on in the warmer months.

Photo credit: Peter Campbell-Lloyd, Deck-Max QLD

The Australasian Timber Flooring Association share their tips and tricks for maintaining or building with timber this season:

  • Make sure your timber is properly maintained so that it can withstand the exposure to the sun during the warmer weather.
  • Check to ensure you deck is free from termite activity, decay and that fixings are not corroded. Any loose decking boards should also be refixed.
  • If you’re thinking of installing a deck in your backyard there’s a few things for you to know.  Firstly, it’s important that you choose the right timber, based on your design and location to ensure a lasting performance.
  • If you’re planning on an elevated deck ensure that the area is cleared of vegetation, proper foundations are provided and that appropriate drainage is also provided. In addition, it is important for your deck to be structurally strong enough to carry people walking across it.
Photo credit: Peter Campbell-Lloyd, Deck-Max QLD
  • If you are wanting a deck close to the ground it’s important to ensure that the deck still has adequate ventilation and drainage.
  • To protect the timber against decay and termites it is necessary to choose the appropriate timber species and appropriate preservative treatment.
  • If your timber deck is near your pool or ocean be cautious of potential corrosion that may occur with the fixings due to the increase of salt in the air. It is recommended that stainless steel or silicon bronze fixings are used to prevent corrosion.
  • Unfortunately, if you live in some areas of the countryside with summer comes the risk of bush fires, check if your area is prone to fires before installing your deck as this will affect the type of timber you may be able to use.
  • Lastly, it is important to maintain your outdoor decking all year round, and simple steps like the ones listed above will ensure your decking lasts for many summers to come.

For further advice visit the Australasian Timber Flooring Association’s website.

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Designers Furniture Homewares

Design trade show DENFAIR lands in Sydney

DENFAIR Melbourne 2017

One of Australia’s leading contemporary design and art events DENFAIR is coming to Sydney! A favourite in Melbourne, the boutique trade show brings together the brightest talent from local and international brands.

DENFAIR Melbourne 2017

Following continued success in Melbourne and many requests from both exhibitors and attendees to hold a second show in Sydney, the decision was a natural step. “It’s really humbling to see the show go from strength to strength and see the design community embrace the show with such enthusiasm,” says DENFAIR co-founder Thibaud Cau-Cecile.

Cult Stand 2017

With a focus on homegrown talent, the idea behind DENFAIR is to give designers a platform to promote original content without compromise. While many design exhibitions are done by large corporations in equally large spaces, the aim of DENFAIR is to put intimacy front and centre. “We want the show to be intimate enough to move around in a single day knowing that our visitors are time poor,” explains co-founder Claudio Oyarce. “Offering two shows permits an increase in visitation as we are closer to a wider audience.”

Great Dane Stand

DENFAIR Sydney 2018 will be held at the Hordern Pavillion from August 16 to 18.

For more | Get your design fix

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Designers House Tours RENO ADDICT

House tour: Award-winning timber-clad home

On a subdivided plot just 7.2 metres wide, designing a spacious, private home was always going to be a challenge. However builder Phil Lovell, of Lawson and Lovell Building Services achieved just that and more, winning the Master Builders Award ($800,001-to-$1 million category) for his stunning house in Sydney’s northern beaches.

Home to Phil, his wife Emma and their two young children, the compact site overlooks the beach suburb of Manly. Timber takes real centre stage, with the spotted gum cladding and ceiling the stand out features. “Entering through the grand, timber-panelled front door you immediately get a feeling of space and light,” explains Emma. “Your eyes are then drawn upwards, through the light well, revealing further use of timber panelling on the ceiling of the top floor.”

Further complementing the design is the use of a steel framed, timber-clad beam at the front of the building, which stretches out appearing to float above the building. “One of my favourite details is the structural steel,” says Emma. “It’s a detail that we worked on with the architects and the engineer to come up with, and possibly a detail that a lot of people wouldn’t recognise.”

Designed by Mark Korgul and Evan Howard from Watershed Design, alongside interior designer Annie Benjamin, Phil and Emma required an open plan kitchen, three bedrooms and a home office. The design also had to have plenty of natural light, but maximum privacy. “The site required careful consideration during design with regard to neighbouring apartment blocks,” explains Emma. “The orientation of windows and some frosted glazing overcame this issue. It’s also south facing, so consideration to natural light was paramount. This was overcome with high level windows and the use of voids and stairwell windows.”

With design continuity throughout the home, the lounge area is separated from the open-plan kitchen and dining area by a timber-panelled wall. The state-of-the-art kitchen is finished with stainless steel and gas appliances, a Caesarstone island benchtop and sleek cabinetry. Downstairs, all bedrooms are generously sized, with the master featuring solid timber-framed sliding doors that lead to an enclosed garden; while on the ground level a secure double garage, sizeable home office and another bathroom, complete with shower and internal laundry finish off the home.

More on Lawson and Lovell Building Services | Other house tours

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Bathrooms RENO ADDICT The Block

The Block series 13 hallway and laundry week room reveals!

Hallway and laundry week: the one week contestants underestimate every season. As a result three couples didn’t finish, but there were still some pretty spectacular reveals. Without further ado… the good, the bad and the ugly!

Jason and Sarah (third place with 26.5 out of 30)

With an unexpected 10 grand in their pocket, plus a challenge win, the couple decided to reach for the sky, literally, with a cathedral skylight feature in the hallway. When the judges first saw it jaws hit the floor! “Is this the hallway or the ballroom?” said Neale.

The rest of the hallway got a big tick, bar the pendants which Shaynna thought detracted from the skylights. All the judges agreed the couple had underestimated the scale of the project, with the execution letting them down. Paintwork was unfinished and even some plastering needed to be completed.

Into the laundry — with toilet, and Neale was big fan: “I don’t think I’ve ever used the word sexy to describe a laundry but I’m going to use it now!” The judges were fans of the smoked mirror, Caesarstone, dark timber, brass tapware and tiles, plus they agreed functionality was spot on. Despite not finishing, Jason and Sarah were named the most improved.

Our picks to buy: Freedom Milena basket, Beacon Lighting Saville 4 Light Pendant and Life Interiors Flynn Round Mirror

Hannah and Clint (fifth place with 22 out of 30)

I would’t want to follow Jason and Sarah’s grand hallway, but unfortunately for Hannah and Clint, someone had to do it! Neale praised the room as elegant and restrained, however the compliments stopped there. Shaynna said it felt ordinary and criticised the couple for not panelling the hallway, like they had their living room (they will, they just ran out of time). Execution was also an issue for the couple, with dirty floors and unfinished painting.

The laundry was received much more positively, Darren calling it: “Surprisingly fantastic.” The storage got big ticks, as did the benchtop, Caesarstone, tiles and colour palette. The judges liked that they had added a toilet, but criticised the lack of window treatment. Neale ended the judging by saying while the laundry had some nice touches, combined with the hallway they had a long way to go.

Our picks to buy: Ziporah Lifestyle Aura Bath Towel Bathroom Makeover Set and Freedom Modernist Console

Ronnie and Georgia (fourth place with 24.5 out of 30)

The judges immediately spotted it was unfinished. “If Ronnie and Georgia can’t finish, you know it’s bad,” said Shaynna. The hallway got praise for having drama, but Shaynna criticised the space for having Art Deco and Victorian period features: “Purists will have an issue with this.” The art got big applause, as did the linen cupboard and the separate powder room. “This is good, smart planning,” said Neale.

Finally the laundry, and the judges loved the skylight, benchtop and its spacious feel. But then some rookie errors were realised; the laundry lacked storage and the drying racks extended into the door. “I get the impression they were really rushing,” said Neale.

Our picks to buy: Anya Brock The Secrets Print, Globewest Elle Criss Cross Marble Console and Rug Addiction Bordeaux Eco Friendly Runner Rug

Sticks and Wombat (first place with 28.5 out of 30)

After some harsh criticism from the buyers’ advocates, this week Sticks and Wombat stepped it up in the styling stakes. And boy oh boy, they did well! The hallway was praised for being feminine and soft (something their rooms have lacked in the past). The judges loved the timber panelling on the walls and ceiling: “A masterstroke!” said Shaynna. The colour palette and separate toilet got big ticks, as did the execution, with their rooms being the first to be finished.

Into the laundry and the judges immediately spotted a remote control which revealed an attic ladder. “I love a gadget when it really works,” said Neale. The judges loved the storage, tiles and colour palette, with the only criticism being that the washing machine could be seen from the hallway (as the laundry had no door).

Our picks to buy: Sherren Comensoli Down Under Paper Print and Globewest Ascot Cross Console

Josh and Elyse (second place with 27 out of 30)

The couple decided to create some major drama with nine-foot ceilings and it definitely paid off. “Get out of here,” said Neale. “This is a knockout,” agreed Shaynna. The judges loved the steel door at the end of the hallway which separated the original home from the extension. Styling got commended, as did the chandelier. “Throughout the history of The Block I can’t think of a hallway that’s ever had as big an impact on me as this one,” said Neale.

Next the laundry, which was praised for its panelling, tiles and drying room. However, the judges thought it needed more storage and criticised the fact they were the only home without an extra toilet. “Is this a triumph of style over substance?” asked Neale.

Our picks to buy: Klaylife The ‘Elongated’ Clay Pendant and Steel Window Design Hallway Steel Door

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RENO ADDICT

Auction vs Private Treaty: Which is best for you?

Selling your home is stressful. There’s a lot to consider, from choosing the right agent to staging your home. In such a competitive marketplace it can be difficult to weigh up what is the best way to secure the highest price for your property, so comes one of the hardest decisions of all: auction versus private treaty? Justin Ferguson, Founder and Principal of Ferguson Property Agents, shares the pros and cons of these two popular methods.

Willoughby home listed by Ferguson Property

Auction

Pros:
• Flexibility: As the property owner you have the ability to choose the date of sale, settlement date and make sure all the terms suit you.
• More security: Provides the protection of a reserve so your property won’t sell unless bidding reaches a pre-agreed level.
• Win-win: Both buyers and sellers can work towards getting a result on auction day, which means the vendor can get a premium through spirited competition.
• Spoilt for choice: The option to sell your home one of three potential ways: prior to auction, auction day or through negotiation.

Cons:
• Higher cost: In terms of a marketing budget and other unprecedented costs.
• Personal preference: Some buyers may not like the auction process and could be deterred from viewing your property.

Private Treaty

Pros:
• No rush: Provides more time to consider offers from multiple buyers. This is suited to sellers who don’t have the urgency to sell.
• Privacy: The ability to withhold certain information from the general public.

Cons:
• Uncertainty: Subject to a cooling-off period where the buyer could change their mind.
• Lengthy: No specified end date means it may take much longer to sell your property compared to selling it via auction.

For more information.

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Design Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

Pre-patterned pavers: A cost-efficient way to add style to your backyard

Landscape design is on the up! Long gone are basic backyards with overgrown weeds, now outdoor spaces are a big part of the home; a place to relax, work and entertain.

A great way to update your garden on the cheap is with pre-patterned pavers. Subtle and stylish, they add a creative element to your outdoor space and a modern texture underfoot that needs little styling.

Available from Boral, the Cloisters range is offered in a pack of three unpatterned pavers and one patterned paver with geometric lines, to add instant dimension and visual interest. The large format pavers are available in Ivory and Slate Grey, which are ideal for creating a minimalist space that is easy to decorate and update as the seasons change. These tones provide a perfect base for bright cushions or soft outdoor lighting.

The Cloisters range also includes pavers for steps and garden edging for a complete outdoor and garden design.

For more information on Boral’s paving range.

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Art Designers RENO ADDICT Styling

Our top 10 names in Australian wallpaper

Wallpaper is a great way to revamp your room for less. Often all you need is a feature wall and in a matter of hours your room will go from bleak to chic! But like everything there are a lot of of options, so it’s important to find wallpaper that doesn’t just look good but also has longevity… because there’s really nothing worse than wallpaper with air pockets and rips. Below is a range of Australian labels we give the Interiors Addict stamp of approval to!  

Bethany Linz: Bethany trained in fine arts before moving to textile and wallpaper design, and boy can you tell. How intricate and beautiful is this botanical print? Available through Sparkk, the hand painted wallpaper is available in eight colour ways and the background can even be custom coloured to match your interior.

Bethany Linz

Quercus & Co.: A wallpaper and fabric label based in Sydney, Quercus & Co. love pattern and colour. More ‘art-paper’ than wallpaper, their latest collection, Suketchi, pays homage to Japanese art. Featuring symbols of the natural world — clouds, rivers, the sea and mountains — the designs are created via Ukiyo-e, a style of woodblock printing and painting that flourished in Japan from the 17th to 19th century.

Quercus & Co.

Anna Spiro: Designed by the Brisbane based interior designer for Porter’s Paints, Anna has applied her flair for layering fabrics with diverse pattern and colour to wallpaper. Bright, quirky and fun, Jen herself is a fan, having the below wallpaper in her home office.

Anna Spiro

Collette Dinnigan: Another collaboration with Porter’s Paints, wallpaper was a natural progression for the acclaimed fashion designer. Worldly taste is Colette’s signature… can’t you just imagine this wallpaper up against European antiques and artisan textiles? Refined and beautiful, her designs won’t go out of fashion any time soon.

Collette Dinnigan

Native Swinson: Quintessentially Australian, the prints of founder Kate Swinson are inspired by her memories of a rural childhood; think climbing up trees and floating down rivers. The detailed line drawings (you have to see them up close to believe them!) are screen printed by hand using non-toxic inks on eco-friendly papers.

Native Swinson. Photo Credit: Denise Braki for Temple & Webster

Signature Prints: The proud custodians of Florence Broadhurst’s design library, Signature Prints bring the design legend’s unique patterns from the ’60s to now. From the classic colour ways she made famous to some original new editions, the collections encompass the perfect blend of bright and neutral, graphic and simple.

Signature Prints. Photo credit: Emma Hack Artist

Luxe Walls: Options galore! Luxe Walls have partnered with Alamy, Australia’s biggest imagery supplier, so you literally have a million images to choose from. Oh my! They also have their signature collections if looking through a million images is a bit too overwhelming! Best yet, much of their collection is removable (including the concrete design below), which means you and your home can stay on top of the trends at an affordable price.

Luxe Walls. Photo credit: Home Loves

Annandale Wallpapers:  This family owned business has been supplying wallpaper for over 60 years! Home to one of Sydney’s widest selections — they have over 400 design sample books in store — Annandale Wallpapers offer something for everyone, from the more sensible geometrics to the free-spirited (dog-approved!) wallpaper below.

Annandale Wallpaper

Patricia Braune: After 20 years in advertising as a graphic designer, Sydneysider Patricia embarked on a new career in surface design. Very much at home with a pen in hand, her intricately drawn prints are rich in texture and layers, just like the flowers she draws.

Patricia Braune

Publisher Textiles: A favourite of Jen’s (she’s used them twice), Publisher Textiles are all about creating wallpaper the hard way, by hand! Using traditional hand screen printed techniques and small-scale production, everything is designed, printed and cut in their Sydney studio. Arguably the brand’s most iconic design is the Hibernian print (below), inspired by the heritage listed building in Surry Hills.

Publisher Textiles

We hope you enjoyed this list. Let us know what you would add.

More home inspo

Thanks to fellow wallpaper fan Lynne Bradley Interiors for sharing her favourites, some of which made it onto this list.

Categories
Designers Expert Tips Kitchens RENO ADDICT The Block

Get the look: All the details from Sunday’s Block kitchens

Kitchen week is always one of the biggest weeks on The Block… I’m sure I wasn’t the only one oohing and ahhing while watching Sunday night’s reveal! With each kitchen boasting new metallic and textured finishes and of course enviable appliances, we thought it’d be the perfect time to give you all the details so you can get the Block look at home.

Josh and Elyse

Scoring a perfect 30/30, Josh and Elyse’s kitchen was a contemporary take on a traditional Hamptons style kitchen. In a risky move – that paid off – their island bench was the only one oriented to face the garden rather than the living area, enhancing the feel of indoor-outdoor living. Another winning feature was their enormous hidden butler’s pantry, which the judges loved; Neale saying it was “large enough for an army of butlers!”

Details:

  • Freedom Kitchens cabinetry in Sierra Cinder and White profiled doors
  • Caesarstone benchtop in Noble Grey (Jen has chosen this for her own kitchen) with waterfall ends
  • Appliances by Bosch – freestanding stainless steel fridge, 900mm gas cooktop, integrated coffee machine and warming drawer

Jason and Sarah

Also gaining top scores were Jason and Sarah, who created a contemporary kitchen featuring new metallic and concrete finishes. I particularly loved their integrated fridge hidden by platinum cabinetry, as well as the built in shelf behind the cooktop. In the words of Neale: “Genius!”

Details:

  • Freedom Kitchens new metallic cabinetry in Titan, plus Super Matt Black and Blackened Elm
  • Caesarstone benchtop and splashback in Statuario Maximus and new Rugged Concrete
  • Accessories by Hettich
  • Appliances by Bosch –Pyrolytic Oven with added steam and warming drawer

Ronnie and Georgia

Coming in third were Ronnie and Georgia with their luxurious industrial style kitchen. Darren was impressed with their use of black, saying it was the cut through a grey kitchen needed. Having won an appliance upgrade to NEFF earlier in the show, the couple had the most technologically advanced kitchen in the competition.

Details:

  • Freedom Kitchens cabinetry in new Beton (textured light concrete) and Matt Black
  • New Caesarstone Rugged Concrete in kitchen and pantry
  • Appliances by NEFF – new induction cooktop with downdraft ventilation and Pyrolytic full steam slide and hide oven, integrated coffee machine, combi microwave

Sticks and Wombat

True to style, Sticks and Wombat produced an edgy kitchen with organic tones and raw textures. They chose a concrete look for their ceiling-to-floor cabinetry, which blended seamlessly with their self-made stone-box over the rangehood. I loved their dining table bench made from a high quality laminate, a look Neale labelled as: “Raw luxury”.

Details:

  • Freedom Kitchen textured dark concrete finish in new Valetta
  • Dining bench in new Tobacco Halifax Oak – looks and feels like real wood
  • New Caesarstone benchtop range in New White and Turbine Grey
  • Appliances from Bosch – fully integrated bottom mount fridge/freezer and black glass flame select gas cooktop

Hannah and Clint

Hannah and Clint’s kitchen made a statement with its contemporary tones and sophisticated use of materials. I was a fan of their island bench, featuring a wine fridge, open display shelving and an integrated Bluetooth sound system. The perfect entertainer’s kitchen.

Details:

  • Freedom Kitchens cabinetry in Charcoal Riven and Pewter with LED lighting
  • Caesarstone benchtop in Calacutta Nuvo
  • Appliances by Bosch – Induction cooktop and integrated fridge and coffee machine

To get the Block look visit Freedom Kitchens.

Did you miss the kitchen reveals? Catch up here.

All our Block coverage.