From bed linen to furniture, there’s always something new to discover within the kids’ interior scene. And this month, not only are we bringing you the latest children’s interior finds but we’ve also got a fabulous giveaway. Il Tutto’s bouclé recliner is the perfect addition to any chic nursery space – scroll down to go into the draw.
Ailanto Design: A collaboration between Amanda Ferragamo and the recently profiled Australian interior designer Keeley Green, Ailanto Design is a purveyor of luxury hand-designed wallpaper, fabrics and homewares for children’s rooms. All of the brand’s whimsical designs are hand-drawn by Amanda who draws on her extensive travels and family life in Italy for artistic inspiration.
Ailanto Design Angkor Wat wallpaper in apricot and Broad Not Bored fabric
Ailanto Design Cottontail wallpaper and Stripe Me Skinny fabric
Ailanto Design Woodland Squirrel fabric wallpaper and Stripe Me Skinny fabric
Il Tutto Paige glider recliner chair in vanilla bouclé: Il Tutto’s popular Paige recliner chair is back but this time it’s wrapped in a luxe, on-trend vanilla bouclé fabric. The chair fully reclines, boasts a high backrest and armrests positioned at the correct height for relief while breast or bottle feeding your baby. The chair retails for $889 but scroll down for your chance to win one for your nursery, or even elsewhere in your home if you don’t have a baby (it sure is stylish enough!).
Il Tutto Paige chair
Lorena Canals rugs: Available locally from Momy Decor, the Spanish designer Lorena Canals has been a trendsetter in the children’s home decor market ever since she created the washable rug concept. The range is brimming with fabulous designs that are practical, cosy and lightweight so that you can easily move them around.
Kaarol washable rug, $428.
Tropical Green washable rug, $438
Linen House Kids: The new range of children’s bedding at Linen House is rather fun and many of the designs are reversible meaning you get two looks for the price of one! With something for every child’s room there’s large spots, hearts, bears and bunnies as well as large, bold checks and more.
Rockabye River play mat: Eco-friendly, biodegradable, certified non-toxic, extra thick, durable, easy clean and waterproof this Australian owned and designed range of play mats are also super cute and fully reversible. 200cm x 140cm. $189.95.
Savannah/Outback play mat
Our Journey Home/Reef play mat
Savannah/Outback play mat
The winner was Kate Bowles from VIC.
Designing children’s rooms: flexible spaces they won’t outgrow
Mum of two and founder of Incy Interiors Kristy Withers, knows first-hand how quickly children can grow and their tastes…
Designer profile: From expat childhood to high end interiors
Growing up as an expat, Brisbane based interior designer Keeley Green lived in Africa, Papua New Guinea and England which…
The latest inspo pics from Dulux landed this week and they showcase the brand’s Restore palette from the 2022 Dulux Colour Forecast. Comprised of rich, soothing colours, the palette was explored by Dulux colour forecaster and stylist Bree Leech when she undertook a multi-room makeover in a renovated 1980’s brick home.
“We chose to make over three rooms – a toddler’s bedroom and two entry areas – showing the versatility of the palette to energise different interior spaces,” says Bree. Starting with the home’s toddler room, she overhauled that space twice – there’s feature colours of both New Penny and Natural Flora paired with a base colour of Hog Bristle Half (a warm white chosen to soften the spaces).
BEFORE toddler roomAFTER toddler room (option one): Dulux New Penny features on the room’s v-groove wall.
“Both accent colours add interest and make the bedroom more inspiring for a young child but are also colours that they can keep as they grow,” says Bree who added even more texture and warmth to the room via pale timber, woven cane and natural fabrics including linen, cotton and wool. “We also amped up the texture by adding a thick pile rug to the already carpeted floor,” says Bree.
AFTER toddler room (option two): Dulux Natural Flora features on the room’s v-groove wall.
Bree also worked on the home’s two entry spaces with the intention of making them feel more inviting, sophisticated and memorable. “The entries have gorgeous, exposed beams and curved arched doorways; we wanted to celebrate both architectural features and did so through colour and décor,” says Bree.
Dulux Ferry features on the entry ceiling
The main entry features a dramatic splash of Dulux Ferry on the ceiling while the secondary space truly shows the power of paint – Bree replaced a stark white shade with Dulux Finnegan before finishing the space with art and handmade ceramics to imbue it with further character.
BEFORE entryAFTER entry. Dulux Finnegan elevates the space.
Winter colour tips from Dulux colour expert Andrea Lucena-Orr
When considering colours for your walls, always factor in existing fittings and decor that will remain once the makeover is complete. This may be flooring, cabinetry, window colour, furniture, etc. – knowing what colours and textures will remain will help drive your colour decisions with paint.
Determine whether your room relies on a lot of natural or artificial light to help add warmth and atmosphere to the space. For example, south facing rooms will do well with warmer colours to offer comfort. If the space faces north, you may want to select softer, cooler colours in the palette to keep that sense of light and brightness.
Paint’s not just for walls – try it out on décor and accessories like ceramic sculptures, pictures frames and lamps! This is a subtle but impactful way to add new life to a room, especially for those who may not feel ready to inject colour on a larger scale.
Always test colours before you purchase your paint to ensure you’re happy with the final colour choice. Dulux sample pots are available in hardware stores nationwide or via the Dulux website. Leave your painted samples up for at least two or three days to ensure the colour(s) work in your space and under different lighting conditions, both natural and artificial and view in different weather conditions i.e., bright sunny day versus a dull grey day.
I recently shared this DIY polkadot wall project I did in the boys’ new shared bedroom on socials but I thought I’d include here with a step by step too. It was so super easy and as a non-crafty/creative person, I was quite proud and smug with myself afterwards. If I can do it, anyone can!
Charlie and Seb loved it and thought Mum was really clever!
I do like to keep the boys’ bedrooms quite classic and calm as they have all the colour and all the toys in their playroom (where would this neat freak mum be without that?!) but I loved the idea of this fun paint feature on one wall, especially as it’s the one they see from their beds, and the one you don’t see as you’re walking down the hallway. Everyone wins!
All you need is some paper plates, a couple of big sponges (I got mine from Bunnings), scissors or a craft knife and as many sample pots of paint as you want different colours (I chose three).
Simply cut circles out of the sponge/s with scissors or use a craft knife. I drew around a glass with a Sharpie but you could choose anything from the kitchen that works for the size you want. It’s also up to you if you do all your circles the same size like I did, or mix it up!
I chose a white as one of my colours to contrast against the mid grey wall
The boys thought they were helping me choose colours at Bunnings but the truth is, I already had a pretty good idea of what we’d get (I’m keeping it real here, folks!).
I’m all for living life on the edge so I didn’t over think the placement of my spots. I took my time and did one colour at a time. Then at the end I stood back a lot, considered the wall as a whole and added extras here and there until it was just right!
These brass hooks for hanging school bags on are from Temple & Webster
I found carefully twisting back and forth with the sponge onto the wall helped with coverage. The edges of my circles were definitely not perfect but I think that looks deliberate and works well for a kids’ room. Another tip is to have a few paper plates available to experiment with how much to load the sponge up (or not) with paint.
The finished feature added some fun to the boys’ bedroom
I hope this easy DIY project inspires you to have a go yourself. I’d love to see what you create if you do! If you have any questions, pop them in the comments. And before you ask, the bunks are the Myer from B2C Furniture and we love them!
This idea came from British Paints and you check out their how-to here.
Baby number two’s modern and unisex nursery reveal
Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper There’s a new room in our house which is calm, serene and incredibly tidy… because nobody…
Stylish bunk beds: The best options for kids’ rooms
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Every parent wants their child to have a beautiful bedroom. A kid’s bedroom should provide a safe sanctuary where they can retreat for quiet down time, independent play, and of course, much needed sleep! But it’s important to get the decor balance just right. Too much clutter can be overstimulating for your child, meaning they may not be able to emotionally regulate, wind down and fall asleep. However, not enough furnishings can make their bedroom feel stark and uninviting, meaning they’ll choose to spend less time in it!
Here are five expert tips to help make your child’s bedroom a sensory-friendly and calming space.
Use calming colours
Never underestimate the power of colour on one’s mood. When choosing wall colours and furnishings for their bedroom such as curtains, rugs and linens, choose colours that are calming on the senses. Did you know that blue and green are colours associated with peace and tranquillity? Blue is linked to the ocean which is a soothing colour that helps calm the nervous system and reduces anxiety. Green is connected to nature and is a symbol of rejuvenation. Neutral colours such as light browns, beige and white are also colours that promote a feeling of relaxation, calm and peace. Including these calming colours in your child’s bedroom can help relieve stress and prevent overstimulation.
Grace and Maggie Playmats’ Retro Archie Playmat
Avoid clutter to get the right balance
Some children can be very sensitive to visual stimuli. Having too much “stuff” in their bedroom can provide too much stimulation. This can overwhelm their senses and can also impact their sleep. Aim to include enough toys and furniture to engage their interest, while not having too many things out at once. We suggest rotating the toys in their bedroom every few weeks. Too many brightly coloured posters and charts on the walls can also be visually overwhelming. Aim to include a good range of visuals on the walls while also being mindful of clutter.
Create a sensory chill out space in their bedroom
A sensory chill out space is an area where your child can go to have a break from stimuli in their environment, such as other people, loud noises or bright lights. A sensory chill out space gives children a quiet space to retreat to and calm down. An easy spot to put this is in the corner of their bedroom. The chill out space (or book corner) should have soft flooring, such as a padded playmat, rug or carpet, and sensory furnishings such as a beanbag, lounger chair or cushions. To further reduce stimulation, this area should not be too bright; consider including dim lighting such as a sleep lamp or a teepee tent. This area can also include a couple of quiet activities to do such as books to read or weighted soft toys to cuddle.
Neptune Blanket’s Weighted Blanket II, Weighted Koala and Weighted Platypus.
Include calming images
Certain pictures of places, patterns, colors or textures can make us feel relaxed and happy. But these are different for everyone. Work out which pictures calm your child so you know which ones to include in their bedroom. Do this when they are in a relaxed mood. Try showing them a broad range of images, such as photos from family holidays, different places, people, animals and colours. Look closely at your child’s reactions while doing this and see which ones get a happy and relaxed response.
Incorporate soft, sensory furnishings
Soft, sensory fabrics and textiles can elicit a calming effect because touching them provides sensory input and put plainly, just feels nice! Think about including soft sensory furnishings in your child’s bedroom such as minky throw rugs and soft cuddly toys. Cushions, loungers or pillows with sensory textures such as faux fur, suede, vegan leather and satin provide lots of sensory input. Kids also love to jump and tumble around. Having soft floor coverings provides an added sense of comfort to their room while also providing safety. We love our Luxe Mellow Mat as it has 30mm of slow rebound memory and a faux fur carpet feel.
Henlee Co’s Henlee Lounger in tan
By creating a sensory-friendly bedroom, we are providing our children with their own space to feel safe, connected and happy.
Sarah James is owner of The Sensory Specialist, a registered NDIS provider based in Melbourne. She is a qualified psychology teacher and mum of two boys. Through her experiences, Sarah has developed lots of tips and tricks to help create sensory-friendly environments for children.
It’s no secret that we absolutely love what Aussie designers are doing in the world of bed linen! So much so that a few weeks ago we showcased our top 10 best places to buy Australian-made bed linen online. But today it’s all about the kids! So check out the amazing kids’ linen brands below, where you’ll find something to suit every little one, from classic bedding, to colourful, to just plain crazy!
This always popular post has been updated for 2022.
If you’re after a bit of 1970’s inspired colour and print in your child’s room then Sage & Clare is the place to hit up. Featuring clashing prints, gorgeous quilt covers, embroidery, pom poms and a host of fabulous mix and match cushions, the range allows you to create a layered and original kids’ bedroom look with a touch of the bohemian.
2014 saw the girls at Kip & Co branch into kids and cot linen and the line has been a huge success. The brand’s anything goes approach sees designs include fairies, monsters, checks and more and we love their motto: “We’re not trying to be the sophisticated kids bedding company, or even the cute or the pretty, we just want to make a spunky, fun kids bedding range.”
Sack Me! has three goals: to be fun, stylish and gender-neutral. Hitting the nail on the head for all three, their range is all about food, bringing about that friendly familiarity to kids and kids-at-heart.
Rachel Castle is the queen of fun yet stylish bed linen and we love the way that she mixes and matches her fabulous prints that are designed by hand in her Sydney studio. From spotty sheets to beautiful floral designs, as well as beautiful complementary cushions, Castle is all about whimsical colour pops making it perfect for kids’ rooms.
High-quality linen bedding in a range of beautiful full-bodied colours, Cultiver is the perfect alternative for parents tired of garish colours and clunky bed designs. With a selection of their range available in single sizes, their bedding is sophisticated and promises to last the test of time.
This beautiful, retro inspired bedding brand isn’t just for adults with single sizes available too. From leopard print to gingham floral patterns and more, the range is created in 100 per cent French flax linen and the brand also produces a lovely line-up of cushions to complete the look.
For a personal touch, you can’t go past the Little Willow Vintage range of personalised embroidered cushions. Each pure linen pillow is hand stitched and features a contrasting oatmeal linen backing and is filled with an eco insert made from recycled plastics. They make a lovely gift.
A stalwart of the Aussie bed linen scene, the Linen House kids’ bedding offering just keeps getting better. From on-trend prints and colours to matching novelty cushions, there’s plenty within the range to build up the layers in your child’s room. And in a welcome move for many parents (who are tired of the standard pink or blue!) the brand’s latest range is designed to be gender neutral.
Established in 1967, Sheridan bed linen has been adorning Aussie kids’ beds for a very long time and its quality has remained. From stars to stripes, quilting and sorbet-hued designs, the range is perfect for those that favour a more classic children’s room aesthetic.
From animal prints to plains and a smorgasbord of licensed designs (think Harry Potter, Hello Kitty, Star Wars and more), the Pottery Barn Kids bed linen range has something for everybody. The brand also does bed skirts and plush children’s comforters too.
We hope you found this list useful. Please let us know who you’d add!
Aussie brand Linen House have launched their latest kid’s collection. The new range features contemporary children’s bed linen and coordinating accessories, helping tiny tots all the way up to tweens transform their bedrooms. After all, a child’s bedroom is the first place they call their own.
The new collection pays tribute to kids and their wandering imaginations, injecting fun, colour, and interactive themes into each design while still remaining fashion forward. The designs allow parents to engage their child’s innate curiosity with nature, encouraging young minds to consider how precious and unique our earth is.
The collection is not separated into genders. Instead, it encourages every child to choose for themselves based on which designs call to them. “It’s great that we’re finally moving to a time where gender-specific designs are becoming less relevant. A child should be able to sleep in anything that makes them feel great, regardless of colour or design,” says senior textile designer, Marieke Bruins.
The collection boasts a variety of prints that will transport your little ones to far off places where they might encounter lizards, leopards, tropical animals, sea creatures and more. Featuring a principal colour scheme of lilac, yellow, navy and light green, that was meticulously chosen to fit in perfectly with the adult range, so the whole family can enjoy Linen House together.
The pieces are made from a range of fabrications and techniques including cotton percale, washed cotton, embroidery and organic washed cotton. The collection includes all the necessary and expected quilt covers and sheet sets, even featuring a nursery range of cot and bassinet bedding. As well as incorporating a range of adorable novelty cushions and accessories.
While Linen House previously offered children’s products under the brand name Hiccups, the new Linen House Kids range is more fashion-forward in colour, styling and themes. Bringing together a melting pot of inspiration to create original twists on traditional themes, every design aims to tell a story with an element of wonder and magic to appeal to young minds.
I don’t know about you but I’m thoroughly enjoying giving my house a solid spring clean and refresh in time for summer. And nowhere do I feel this is more necessary than in my kids’ rooms where new bed linen is a must. From iconic flower fairies to Star Wars, there’s plenty to love about our latest children’s bedding picks.
Kip & Co x Flower Fairies Since their first publication in 1923, Cicely Mary Barker’s Flower Fairies have enchanted both adults and children alike making them perfect fodder for Kip & Co’s latest children’s bedding collaboration.
“There’s nothing like the moment you see your first fairy, fluttering around at the bottom of the garden where it’s over-grown and wild. This collection takes you right back to that moment, to cherish with your little ones all over again”, says Kip & Co co-founder Kate Heppell.
The limited-edition collection includes organic cotton bedding for kids and babies, cushions, play mats, blankets, swaddles and bibs. From $15.
Adairs Star Wars collection Very different in tone from the above, the Adairs Star Wars collection is super fun. It’s also a lovely, subtle take on your typical cartoon emblazoned, novelty bedding. Featuring all of the Start Wars iconic characters (including Dark Vader, R2-D2 and Yoda), the range includes bed linen, baskets and nursery pieces. From $34.99.
Sage and Clare Freddy Gingham Bedcover. In the warmer months, it’s sometimes nice to swap out the doona for a lighter bed cover and we’re in love with this newbie from Sage and Clare! Made from 100% cotton with fun pompoms! $289.
Incy Interiors celebrates 10 years with brand new range of children’s furniture
When Incy Interiors launched a decade ago, the Australian children’s furniture scene was a rather bland and predictable one. Debuting with a range of retro style iron beds and cots,…
To celebrate Incy Interiors’ 10th birthday, founder Kristy Withers has relaunched the brand’s iconic Spindle bedroom range. Previously sold between 2015 and 2019, the Spindle collection was a common fixture in celeb homes and even made it into our publisher Jen’s son Sebastian’s baby nursery!
The collection consists of the Penny Single Bed ($999), Penny King Single Bed ($1,199), Jude Bookcase ($599) and Jack Side Table ($499), all handcrafted from New Zealand pine.
Flashback: Jen used the Spindle change table in son Sebastian’s nursery back in 2015 in a custom aqua colour. It has followed him through various bedrooms since as a dresser, until deciding to share with his brother Charlie this year.
Followers of the leading Australian kids’ furniture brand have long been requesting the return of the popular design and it seemed fitting to re-launch the range during a milestone year. The Spindle bedroom range extends upon the classic Spindle Georgia Cot and Lucy Change Table.
Faced with challenges from health restrictions during the pandemic and lockdowns, Incy returned to its roots to pull off this product launch, working outside locked down LGAs. The campaign was shot in Orange NSW, where Kristy and her family live.
“It was serendipitous that due to Covid lockdowns we were forced to do the photoshoot in regional NSW where we did the original Spindle shoot,” said Kristy.
Incy Interiors’ new kids range: so stylish you could steal it!
You know how there’s those kids labels – be it fashion, homewares or furniture – where you just need to have it all, except you’re an adult and alas, nothing…
Whether a space-saver for a multi-child family, another way of squeezing an extra mattress into a small room, or a fabulous way to furnish a holiday home, the bunk bed has myriad uses. Some of the latest thoughtful designs can be converted into two single beds, should your needs change. Clever!
Fantastic Furniture Jordan bunk bed: Available in black, white and grey this simple and stylish design is priced at a very affordable $429. You can also separate the bunks and use them separately should you need to.
Snooze Charlie bunk frame: Australian made, this design is made from zero emissions MDF and comes in a variety of fun water based painted options from aqua to orange and charcoal. $1799.
The Charlie combo bunk frame is also available as a single/double and king single/queen
Luxo Living Brook timber house design twin bunk bed: This cute cubby design is super low to the ground making it perfect for a family with a very young child. It’s available in Scandi-inspired timber or white. $439.
B2C Furniture Myer triple bunk bed with storage: Made from sustainable hardwood timber, this space saving design sports a single bed on top, a double below and under-bed storage drawers on wheels. $999.
Boori Natty single bunk bed: This versatile design can be used as a guarded single bed then converted into a loft bed or bunk bed depending on your family’s needs. The top bunk has a cute tray attached to the side to hold essentials. It’s available in two white and timber finishes as well as a pretty pink and dusty blue. $1299.95 with two beds.
Amart Captain Jack bunk bed: A simple, compact design (made from MDF and timber), this bunk bed is ideal for small to medium spaces. $699.
IKEA Mydal bunk bed frame: An affordable, solid wood option, this bunk can be recycled when your children move way from home which ups its eco-credentials. $349.
Incy Interiors celebrates 10 years with brand new range of children’s furniture
When Incy Interiors launched a decade ago, the Australian children’s furniture scene was a rather bland and predictable one. Debuting with a range of retro style iron beds and cots,…
We’re always excited for a new Kip & Co. drop and this week saw the launch of the brand’s Spring/Summer ’21 collection titled Golden Hour. Inspired by countryside weekend escapes, nature is certainly at the forefront – there’s bold florals, statement stripes and tactile tartans in a palette of golden hues, fresh blues, berry shades and ivy greens. Woven linens, giant tassels and plush quilting feature too.
“The collection is inspired by sweet weekend escapes where time moves slowly, while a wild and abundant nature comes into focus,” says Kip and Co. co-founder Alex McCabe.
The range includes new cushion and rug designs
The brand’s commitment to nature can be seen in its new sustainability focus also, with all of the cotton bedding in this range made from certified organic cotton. This means harmful chemicals, irritants and pollutants have been removed from the brand’s supply chain and there is reduced water usage in the manufacturing process too. With these new practices, this season alone, Kip & Co. will save over 25 million litres of water!
This beautiful striped linen is available in a gorgeous blush shade too
“For the kids, we’re channelling those perfect days, where you can briefly unplug and reconnect with the simple pleasures of life,” says Alex. There are embroidered florals, jumping frogs, diving penguins and a starlit night design. The collection also sees the return of several kids’ favourites including velvet beanbags, petal cushions, duffle bags and floor rugs.
This season’s tabletop offering is rather gorgeous with two new brass napkin rings available in a tropical palm or fish design, perfect for summer entertaining. “We’re getting festive in the kitchen as we head into the season of entertaining. Our beautiful tableware and cutlery celebrate the joy of nourishing and flourishing our bodies and sharing that with those we love the most!” says Alex.
TablewareThe range includes two new brass napkin holder designs including this palm one
The kids’ apparel range is typically bold but this time includes swimwear too. “Our kids’ apparel is a collection packed with colour to match their energy! Dedicated to all those kids who are shooting stars, we have prints that will spark their imaginations and styles that are ready for their biggest adventures.”
The brand has added cute kids’ swimwear to its offering
Kip & Co.’s new autumn collection is big on texture
While there’s plenty for maximalists in the new Kip & Co. range ‘Magic Happens,’ the collection is brimming with options for those who favour a more subdued aesthetic. The brand’s…
Located in Byron Bay, this industrial themed house is home to TV personality and The Block presenter Shelley Craft, her husband Christian Sergiacom and their children. The family originally purchased the land five years ago, with a view to creating a holiday rental house, but subsequently decided to make it their forever family abode. “Time passed, plans came together, and we fell in love with the idea of creating a house that was not just a family home, but also a beach retreat and private sanctuary,” says Shelley.
The open plan main living area looks out onto the pool area
Built on the site of a former whaling station (it ran from 1954 to 1962), the home’s materials honour the town’s industrial roots – there’s rough sawn timber cladding on the exterior, an exposed steel framework and plenty of brick, stone, copper and glass.
Shelley Craft
“It’s not your average beach house. We wanted to create a family home that was cool to look, comfortable to live in and creative in its use of products, all while being sympathetic to the natural environment,” says Shelley of the light and bright design.
Afra and Tobia Scarpa Soriana sofas set the scene in the lounge room
Maximised air circulation and natural light were must-haves for Shelley and nowhere is this demonstrated better than in the main living area with its raked ceilings, louvred windows, skylights and sliding glass doors. Shelley chose Gyprock Supaceil plasterboard, a lightweight, thick board, to create the lofty ceilings. “I think our ceilings are impressive and command attention as you enter the home,” says Shelley.
Pool
PGH Montauk textured brick walls add softness to the open plan design while black and graphite accents feature throughout, adding to the industrial edge of the home. There’s concrete benchtops in the kitchen as well as ceiling fans, louvres and glass door frames. “We love opening the house up and having such an expansive area to entertain and enjoy,” says Shelley.
BedroomEnsuite
The home’s five bedrooms feature pale timber built-ins, plush grey carpet and a soft neutral colour palette with pastel touches. “The bedrooms are a cosy and welcoming mix of soft textures and tones,” says Shelley.
One of the home’s four bathrooms
A fabulous mix of family home and beach house, the home merges contemporary and industrial styles, all while blending in with the beautiful natural landscape. “We are so happy with how it turned out. We wanted to create a family home that was sympathetic to the natural environment, and I feel like we succeeded.”
Byron Bay: The most luxurious farmhouse you’ve ever seen
With its rough sawn hardwood beams, plywood ceilings and exposed brickwork it’s difficult to believe that this stunning home is a new build. Located on a working cattle station in…
With many of our readers in some form of lockdown, we know it presents countless challenges, and particularly for those with children. Whether you’re working from home and trying to homeschool, or simply trying to keep young kids entertained, we’ve done the research and found the most attractive looking indoor toys on the market. And while it might feel like a war zone, it doesn’t need to look like one!
My Nook modular play sofa: Perfect for building a fort, castle, obstacle course or sleepover bed, this Australian made design is perfect for lockdown. Soft, safe and ecologically sound (the foam inserts are sourced from a zero-waste factory), the set features ten individual pieces that zip together and zip apart to create infinite combinations that should keep the kids entertained for hours. From $595.
My Nook play sofa
My Nook play sofa
HipKids grey ball pit with 200 balls: Made from thick foam and covered with silky soft removable and washable jersey material, this ball pit is ideal for indoor play. A stylish alternative to standard issue primary coloured balls, the balls are available in pink, blue, grey and white colour ways. $279.95.
Pikler Play Cube: A cult favourite, this play cube is made from 100 per cent Australian grown timber that is sourced from sustainable forests. Designed for the six month to five year age range, crawlers will like crawling through and around the cube while older kids can climb up and over. $225.
You can add many more pieces to the cube including a ladder and ramp
Target Kid’s concept playhouse pavilion tent: Easy to assemble, and pull apart again, this cosy tent is made for play and rest. The more pillows, blankets, and cuddly toys they can cram in there, the cosier and more fun it becomes! $199.
Balance board Equilibrio: Made from sustainably sourced beechwood, and ideal for developing gross motor skills, this multi-purpose board can be used to strengthen little legs, core muscles, or as a slide, rocker, or bridge. $124.95.
Petite Maison table tent: Another fabulous cubby alternative, this clever design will fit over the dining room table. The tent features a roll-up door with ties for entry into the cubby plus two windows (one with a tie-up curtain). We like this cute Australian themed one. $199.
Petite Maison Australian Bush table tentPetite Maison Petite Shop table tent
Kmart Wooden Work From Home set: If all else fails and they really must be by your side while working, this set could be just the thing to keep them occupied! $13.
Kids’ room decor ideas: Stylish new art prints
I don’t know about you but with the school holidays over, I’m super keen to declutter my kids’ rooms and give them a mini-makeover. Beyond the sorting and storage battles,…
2020 was a year full of twists and turns with the surge of COVID, mandatory lockdowns, and social distancing. But for some it also presented an exciting silver lining. The chance to be a part of the mini baby boom in 2021 – Generation C!
Whether you are first-time parents or veterans welcoming a new addition to the tribe, one of the top priorities is to set up the perfect nursery.
Henley design manager and mum of two, Vicki Gillingham, talks us through nursery trends and must-haves to ensure that the nursery is a tranquil oasis for the baby and calming workplace for mum and dad.
Colour me this
Vicki’s first rule is to colour in the nursery light and neutral tones.
“While there may be a temptation to go with the pinks for a girl and blues for a boy, selecting white, creams and very pale hues are also a great palette to keep the room feeling airy and light,” said Vicki.
Serenity and calmness are high on the list of objectives of a nursery, as you want it to be a tranquil oasis for the baby to call home. With the vibrant colours of the everyday world already visually stimulating the baby, a neutral foundation will ease them into a state of peace and help with the slumber.
“With a neutral foundation, you may like to add some gentle tones such as light greys or lattes, keeping that relaxed and softer feel to the room.”
Let there be (natural) light
“Natural light sifting through the room is such an inviting experience to the senses,” Vicki said. “Avoid bold colours and heavy fabrics in curtains and use soft ceiling lights which you can adjust their setting.”
To let as much natural light in without turning into a sunroom, consider dialing up the natural light by having sheer curtains or blinds. Blockouts are also ideal for daytime naps.
Vicki also recommends setting the cot or bassinet away from the window to avoid draughts and adding a soft light lamp for the nighttime nappy changes. After all, nobody likes harsh lights shone on them as if they were on an operation table!
Playing with texture
Soft, natural fibres should be at the forefront in a nursery so mum, dad, and baby feel cuddly and comfortable in this space.
Some examples Vicki provides include soft rugs on the floor, textured blankets, super soft cushions, and cuddly stuffed toys. Keeping in mind with the colour palette advice, these items should be in soft, neutral tones, and also made of natural fibres like organic cotton.
“Textured wallpaper might also be a lovely touch in neutral or earthy tones but might need to be updated as baby gets older!” Vicki added. “Consider instead adding some wall art that exudes a sense of calmness and composure.”
Fit it out with furniture
All efficient workspaces and cosy bedrooms need the utilities to amplify the experience and the nursery is no different. Parents always need to be prepared when it comes to taking care of their baby. So it is important to be well equipped on the frontlines of dealing with a fussy baby!
“Create a mum or dad corner, featuring a comfortable chair for feeding or cuddling,” Vicki said. “Consider adding a footstool so you can put up your feet as well as a jug of water, and even a snack.”
Essentials for the nursery also include a change table with ample storage and a comfy cot or bassinet away from the window and a comfortable chair for feeding or cuddling for mum and dad.
It is good to consider a book nook boasting picture storybooks and open baskets for toys, clothes, and nappies. But it’s also important to keep the nursery decluttered so it doesn’t overstimulate the baby and pose any dangers.
Vicki Gillingham is design manager for Melbourne-based home builder, Henley.
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A resort-style oasis on a bush block in the rural outskirts of Sydney’s north-west, this new build is the latest project from the talented trio at Three Birds and it is quite the beauty. Situated on a 2.1 hectare block in Annangrove, the home is light-filled and beautifully styled, combining coastal and luxe resort-style touches. And in these unprecedented times, when we’re all spending so much time at home, we’re rather envious of the staycation vibes.
Entrance
Home to Three Birds’ in-house designer Louisa Shield, her husband and two growing boys, the family bought the block in 2018 with a view to living permanently in a place that was more connected to nature. Landscape aside though, the sheer size of the block has allowed for a grand and palatial single-storey home that would be out of reach for most city-dwellers. The home has multiple formal and private rooms including a kids’ wing, guest rooms, a kitchen, multiple bathrooms and a pool house.
Open plan dining and living room
If first impressions count (and they do!), this home certainly delivers – the front of the home features two huge brick pillars and a patio inspired by the ornate Indian city of Jaipur. The front entrance and hallway are framed by a huge, raked ceiling and dramatic arched windows flood the property with natural light and allow for myriad bush views. “It’s definitely the most beautiful entrance we’ve ever done,” says Three Birds marketing director Lana Taylor.
Living room
And with so many spaces, lofty and varied ceiling heights allow for the open plan living to be segregated. “The beauty of this house is you’ve got so many ceiling heights. You’ve got the main entrance that is really high, then the ceiling height drops lower as you enter the house, then into the kitchen and it’s raised,” says Three Birds creative director Bonnie Hindmarsh, who specified 1770 square metres of Gyprock plasterboard throughout the home!
Master bedroom
The master bedroom zone features a rather epic ensuite!
Despite the luxury feel of the home, with two young boys in residence, it was designed with family living in mind. Warm tones, and natural lighting make for a gorgeous indoor living space.
The boys’ wing is a highlight of the home with its double bedroom, walk-in robe, ensuite and upstairs media/playroom. A unique choice, the huge bedroom features two large beds paired with a custom striped bedhead that runs the length of one wall. The team decided to do a feature ceiling and architraves in Dulux Blue Metal, instead of feature walls. The playroom sits above the boy’s bedroom zone.
The boys’ zoneThe loft playroom sits above the boys’ bedroom
Gyprock Superchek was specified in that zone because it provides a 15 percent reduction in perceived loudness compared to standard plasterboard – a rather clever choice with two busy boys living there!
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A few months ago, we decided it was time for Charlie to move from a cot to a big boy bed and I have to say, he has never slept better. His baby room was gorgeous and very calming but it didn’t really reflect the big cheeky toddler he is now, at two-and-a-half!
I didn’t want to buy a whole load of new stuff though, and I like to keep the boys’ bedrooms pretty simple and calm, for sleeping and reading and little else. That’s because we’re lucky enough to have a bomb site (I mean playroom!) where the fun stuff happens. All the colour, toys and mess are in there.
I sold the cot and dresser we had as a pair as they matched and it made sense. So I needed a new dresser and decided that would be the new statement piece to add some colour and punch to the room. I’ve loved bone inlay for a while and once I found out a bit more about Melbourne business Mahlia Interiors and their obsession for this craft, as well as sourcing it ethically, they were the obvious choice! I love the teal blue of this piece and it really makes a statement.
Talking of packing a punch with colour, the C artwork from Alphaberts does exactly the same. I absolutely love it, its particular ‘blueberry’ shade, and the fact it’s from another small business.
The bed isn’t from a small business, it’s from IKEA, and there are certain things you just can’t go wrong with from the Swedish giant (meatballs, for example!), including kid’s stuff. I feel like I outgrew the IKEA look for my big pieces a while back (after many years of buying everything there!), but it’s still my go-to for the playroom and kid’s furniture. At $99 for a simple, solid timber bed, you can’t go wrong!
The Noa Home mattress is crazy comfy. It’s so deep it’s probably a tad too high for the style of bed but hey, it works, and he obviously loves it because he sleeps so well on it. We went for their mid range The Noa Mattress; a hybrid of latex, memory foam and pocket springs. I still don’t know how they get these things in a box but there we go!
I absolutely love a classic stripe and the linen is IKEA’s BLAVINDA. I love that it’s reversible and chambray on the other side, made of cotton, and has a zip closure. Why don’t more quilt covers have this?! The well loved, hand embroidered Charlie pillow is from Little Willow Vintage and I often buy their name pillows for baby gifts. The cute marble side table is from REDDIE, who were kind enough to let me design my own customised piece. The blue powercoated legs look fab.
We haven’t changed heaps or bought a lot of new stuff. The brass Juno + Ace mobile is the same one that hung above his cot and the Milton & King wallpaper still works really well, as does the cream wool west elm rug, which despite being highly impractical, has survived unscathed thus far!
Books are definitely allowed in here and I love IKEA’s FLISAT timber shelves for those. We already had them in the playroom and they are a total bargain at $22 each. We also have a whole bank of TROFAST units in the playroom and I grabbed an extra one for in here because he does keep a few toys in his bedroom (blocks and soft toys). It’s also great nappy and wipes storage for now. The baby deer print is another leftover from the baby room and is from The Print Emporium.
I love thse nesting birds from Marmalade Lion
The cute Mr Maria polar bear nightlight is from Bubster Store and it’s dimmable via remote which is great. The neon name light from Custom Neon is a cool decor piece whether it’s on or not. I’m a sucker for personalisation!
The navy velvet Brosa swivel chair gets played on a lot more than it gets sat on, but that’s okay!
I’m really happy with this room. It’s still very simple and calm but it’s a lot more Charlie than his baby room.
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Drawing is second nature to Sydney-based designer and artist Karina Jambrak. She first started selling the art she created as a high school student in 2001, at the famous Bondi Beach Markets.
Her career as an independent artist began in 2018, when she was made redundant from her dream job as a graphic designer, right after her husband had undergone open heart surgery. Needing to provide for her family, she decided to turn her passion into a full-time career and start her own small business.
Karina’s art is hand-drawn using copic markers, and predominantly uses soft, pastel colour palette. She draws inspiration from Australian landscapes and flora, as well as other parts of the world.
After the success of the first range, Karina has collaborated with Adairs to release a new range of homewares. The collection evokes imagery of dusky, winter foliage, and is sure to lend a sense of serenity to the rooms in which they are placed.
“I want everyone to see the beauty that the winter can bring to the Australian landscape, and how we can bring that beauty into our indoor spaces,” Karina explains, speaking of her inspiration for the collection.
The pastel-hued designs are printed on an array of items, including organic cotton linen, dinner and serving ware, towels, and décor items.
“I am so excited that Adairs asked me to design a second range for them after the success of the first,” Karina says. “Seeing my work come to life on everyday items has been such a dream and I am so proud with how this second collection came out.”
Karina has also designed a playful, jungle inspired collection for Adairs Kids. It features tangerine tones that are sure to ignite the imagination. Delightful hand-drawn images embellish the items, with fun African animals parading amongst greenery similar to that of the main collection.
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Warm, grounded colours that speak of security and comfort are set to dominate winter decorating trends, according to Dulux forecasters.
“There’s a collective yearning for reassurance and a return to simpler times,” says Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux colour and communications manager. “We want our homes to provide comfort, a sense of safety and to remind us of better days ahead. And this will be reflected in more than just colour in 2021 – expect to see a rise in plush, comfy seating, handcrafted furniture with an artisanal feel and a greater focus on ‘purposeful decorating’ rather than just decorating to make an aesthetic statement.”
The Retreat palette – one of three trend colour palettes identified in the 2021 Dulux Colour Forecast – captures the mood of this coming winter.
“These earthy tones and muted colours are all drawn from nature – think oceanic blues, nourishing greens, soft greys and touches of mustard,” Andrea explains. “They bring the outside in – ideal for a time when most of us are stuck indoors for long stretches – and plug into the growing movement for wellness in design.”
To give you ideas on how you can use these comforting hues in your own home, Dulux worked with stylist Bree Leech to re-energise a child’s bedroom using colours from the Retreat palette.
Before and after
“You want your child to love spending time in their room – it should be somewhere they can escape, relax, read and play. The quickest and easiest way to switch up the mood is with colour,” Bree says.
Bree kept the big-ticket items in the room – the bed, bedhead and solid timber bedside table, and focused on updating the room with bold colour. She chose shades that worked with the neutral tones in the foundation pieces, adding plenty of textures to dial up the cosiness. She started by adding deep blue to the walls and a gentle neutral to the ceiling and window detailing.
“We opted for pale greige rather than a classic white for the ceiling and windows to soften the contrast with the blue. A sharp colour contrast can be very effective in a space, but in a room that’s all about relaxation, you want it to be a little less pronounced,” she explains.
“Inky blue works well here – it’s cosy and timeless and sits beautifully alongside the natural materials in the room, such as the timber and woven-rattan,” adds Bree. “A woven wall hanging adds accents of rust and quirky bedside lighting creates a playful mood, adding contrast against the deep blue.”
Artwork: “Fast Forward” by Liam Snootle
“To make the space feel more inviting, I layered the bed with cosy cushions and snuggly, fringed woollen blankets. Curvy furniture is a great addition to break the architectural angles in the room to make it feel more relaxed,” she says.
Bree created a place to read in a sunny spot by the window, complete with a velvet-upholstered armchair and a pair of side tables, perfect for keeping a book or two nearby. “Don’t be afraid to bring in pieces from another room, like this armchair, so long as they serve a purpose and fit with your colour palette,” she says.
Artwork (top): “Long Doggie Print” by Rachel Castle
“If you’ve been all about white for as long as you can remember, get a taste of using stronger colours by starting with a single wall – say the wall behind the bed,” says Andrea. “This can also stretch your new confidence into using colour elsewhere in your home.”
If you’re inspired by this amazing bedroom transformation, Bree has provided some tips for redecorating your child’s bedroom.
Bree’s kids’ bedroom styling tips
Invest in quality: Kids are tough on furniture, so it’s worth paying more for well-made pieces that will last. You can save money on smaller items, such as bedlinen, art prints and rugs.
Add an upholstered bedhead: It makes for a comfortable spot to sit up and read.
Size it right: As a guide, when choosing a rug for a child’s bedroom it should fit two thirds under the bed and extend at least 30cm beyond the sides of the bed – any smaller and it will look lost in the space.
Think multi-purpose: Children’s rooms are often small, so seek out flexible pieces that can be used in different ways, such as an ottoman that doubles as storage and seating.
Make storage easy: Add in baskets for toys and cupboards or shelves to hide mess away.
Wall paint: Dulux Winter Sea, Vintage Linen, and Five Fingers Peninusla.
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No longer purely utilitarian, the humble and hard-working shelf has really come into its own of late. From large and round to Scandi-inspired replete with handy hooks, these are some of our favourite decorative shelving options. Not only are they practical (ahem, who doesn’t need more storage?), but they’re statement-making too.
West Elm Deco Round metal shelf: While styled in a bathroom setting in the picture below, this shelf would work just about anywhere in the home. Functional yet stylish, we love its statement circular design. $179.
Adairs Kids Arden Wall Book Shelf (pack of two): Featuring a boxy design accented with on-trend rattan, these gender-neutral wall shelves are ideal for a child’s room or play area. $149.99
Willow & Wood Scandi peg shelf: Handcrafted on the Gold Coast from New Zealand pine and beech timber hooks, this slimline design features a display shelf above a series of handy hooks. It’s a great spot to store bags, coats or hats. $179.
Kmart Arch wall shelf: We saw these shelves in a budget bathroom makeover recently and we couldn’t get over how fabulous they look for the price. The ideal spot to create a personalised shelfie, they look great styled with objects and plants for a pop of green. $19.
West Elm Kaia entryway organiser: An ideal ‘mudroom’ for dwellings short on space, this clever design makes fabulous use of unused vertical space. Its wooden ledge is the perfect spot to house memos or mementos, and the hooks keep essentials within easy reach. $198.95.
IKEA Flisat wall storage: Made from solid wood, these simple shelves are ideal for storing children’s books and toys but they work well as spice storage in the kitchen also. $22.
Kristina Dam Studio large grid wall shelf: Made from white or black powder coated steel, this shelf’s clean and classic grid design makes for an elegant way to store anything from shoes to books and kitchenware. $539.
Husky Workshop Japanese style classic floating shelf: Made to order in Melbourne, this Japanese inspired design is crafted from locally sourced Tasmanian oak and finished in high quality Danish oil. Custom sizes are available on request. From $49.95.
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