Last night saw Scotty’s own living/dining space revealed after Sunday night saw the contestants have mixed success at filling the huge open plan spaces. So, do we think Scotty did better than The Block contestants?
There was certainly instant warmth and an unmistakable cosy country vibe! I absolutely loved the herringbone floor choice and the use of rugs to zone areas and large furniture to work with the scale of the space.
From the huge open fireplace – complete with fittings for cooking! – in a brick feature wall to the 10-seater custom dining table from Christian Cole facing a timber dresser, Scott’s living dining area was filled with luxe comforts to redefine country chic.
While it was perhaps a little too eclectic for my own personal tastes, I definitely think Scotty and the team did a great job! What did you think?
Last updated in the 90’s, this grand Edwardian-era Melbourne home has just been renovated again with interior designer Jessica Viscarde, of Eclectic Creative, at the helm. “The home had undergone an extension in the late 90’s and the existing conditions of the kitchen, living and dining, as well as the laundry room, did not fit the style of the home, nor meet the needs of the family,” says Jessica, who set about updating the circa 1914 abode with clever space planning, lovely new design features and a neutral yet textured materials palette.
BEFORE kitchenAFTER kitchen
While Jessica updated the entire living, dining and kitchen, perhaps the most striking aspect of overhaul is the integrated meals table that is nestled into the kitchen island bench. “We proposed this layout as our ‘wild card’ option and were thrilled our clients chose it as their favourite. Our clients preferred the ability to sit down comfortably in chairs rather than having an oversized, and perhaps under-utilised, island bench with bar stools.” says Jessica of the unique design that is a natural gathering space in the room.
AFTER kitchen. The integrated meals area is a unique feature.
The kitchen’s beautiful original window area is now complemented by a ceramic double farmhouse sink, Brodware mixer and integrated dishwasher and bins. The cabinetry was extended to frame the original windows and Spanish hand-cut tiles imbue the space with gorgeous texture. Nearby, the fridge was repositioned to free up space that now houses a substantial oven, cooktop and upper cabinetry. As for materials, the kitchen combines natural stone, porcelain and timber with VJ panelling and slimline shaker cabinet profiles.
AFTER kitchen
“We decided to zone designated areas within the expansive open space to incorporate both living and dining, whilst creating an additional sitting area encased by those lovely bay windows,” says Jessica. The living area features custom joinery that was designed to complement the kitchen and neatly store tech away. Powder-coated perforated metal allows for the use of remotes and open timber shelves are the perfect spot to house personal touches.
BEFORE loungeAFTER lounge
“A custom sofa was designed especially for the space and made locally in Melbourne. It’s paired with a stunning green wool area rug to add a soft layer and zone the living area in the open space,” says Jessica.
AFTER dining
The bay window area off the kitchen now houses a lovely reading and relaxing zone to take in the established gardens and sun. UV-friendly fabric was specified for the armchairs and a hand-knotted custom rug from Hali Rugs completes the scene. A David Trubridge pendant light complements another version of the light in the dining area, while working to link the two spaces.
Huge spaces, vast ceilings, mega fireplaces, cheating allegations, fallouts with tradies and more, there was a lot going on in last night’s Block room reveals!
Rachel & Ryan (first place) 29.5 points
There was definitely no lack of confidence from these two (especially Rachel) this week and as it turns out, it was well placed! Not quite three 10s but close enough as this pair finally won a room with 29.5 out of 30 and some very impressed judges.
It’s been a long time coming, but from the moment the judges walked into Rachel and Ryan’s country lodge living and dining space, they finally saw the couple’s vision. “I’ve got goosebumps!” Darren says. “They’ve done it!” Shaynna yelled as she admired the floor to ceiling stone fireplace with a massive lounge wrapped in front, dining table expertly positioned to take in the views, exposed wooden beams highlighting an innovative Blackbutt ceiling that all combined to create what Neale summed up as a “minimalistic lodge” aesthetic.
“Rachel and Ryan, welcome to The Block!” said Neale, who added their sofa was the best sofa ever on the show. “They have done a beautiful job.” Shaynna said she loved it and they’d done the best job. Darren said it was lively, homely and fun.
Aimed straight at their magnificent view, with a central fireplace to bring heat and cosiness and timber-clad beams to accentuate the sheer size of it all, Tom and Sarah Jane’s living dining area is, Neale sums up: “Magnificent!”. He said it was magazine cover worthy. There was high praise too for the paintwork.
It was, however, a room that needed more, they said. More furniture, more rugs and possibly more thought into the styling. A bench seat at the dining table left them confused as well, but the lighting plan, Darren added, made up for a lot.
Shaynna didn’t like the dining setting and said the couch could have been much bigger. Darren didn’t like the mess of cables under the TV. Shaynna said it didn’t have the same feeling or heart and soul of their other rooms. Neale said there was scope to add so much more but he liked what they had included.
(they were on 28.5 but 3 points were deducted for not paying the correct price for the piano and they were disqualified from winning the room)
“Is that a baby grand piano?” the judges asked as they entered house 5 and from that statement piece, the tone was set for the space. “This is impressive,” Darren said as he realised how it took the room to another level, “extremely impressive!”. Darren added it was “chic AF” and Shaynna said she was feeling it!
From the rattan-backed chairs to an ornate mirror and huge sofas creating a grand feel, that feeling went on, with the judges agreeing buyers would love this room… and if they’d played by the rules instead of paying less than 50% of retail price for their piano, it would have pushed them into second place and Tom and Sarah-Jane down into third.
And of course, Neale said it needed some lamps too!
A classic and traditional space greeted the judges in house four, in a room that borrowed heavily from the past. A bit too much perhaps, they decided as they continued on and noticed styling touches and furnishing choices that would have looked more at home in a country cottage than a luxe home. Scale up the furniture, they advised, revisit the lighting plan (that reminded them of a 7/11 and featured a chandelier that could have been much bigger) and the room would get there, they said.
Shaynna said the mixture of contemporary and traditional furniture didn’t work. Neale said it didn’t feel aspirational or luxe. Neale said it needed more oomph and wow factor. “Dylan and Jenny are not going to thank me for saying this but they’ve presented something that’s very cookie cutter and approached it like they’re furnishing a country cottage.”
Despite the impressive support of Keith and Dan, who weren’t impressed with their tradies’ attitudes and insisted they complete their fireplace, poor Ankur and Sharon (who cried a lot this week) still came last.
With big timber beams, antler lights and a stone feature fireplace wall, there was a lot to like in Sharon and Ankur’s living dining space as the judges walked in… but it didn’t take long for them to find more they didn’t like at all. “Like the lobby of a hotel,” Neale said as he spotted a collection of chairs around a coffee table to one side. “Like a Flintstones fireplace,” Darren noted after spotting the lack of grout. “Paint the walls!” Shaynna joined in. For all, it was a space with enormous potential, but one that looked rushed and hit by a tight budget.
Shaynna said it lacked ambience. Neale said it was lacking the things that make a house a home, like bookcases and art. “It doesn’t gel. It doesn’t feel like a home to me. These spaces are now too big. It’s almost defeated them.” Darren said it was “so bad”. Shaynna said it needed to be their re-do room.
Got your eye on the Love Full Bloom artwork by Jen Shewring seen in Ankur and Sharon’s living dining room? You could win it thanks to The Block Shop and Artist Lane. Enter here.
The Block Tree Change 2022: all important kitchen week!
It’s the traditional heart of the home, the space where families gather and where technology meets tradition. Welcome to the…
The Block 2022 tree change: main bathroom reveals
Today, our friend and interior designer Kathryn Bamford, recaps last night’s room reveals. Whoa what a first week on The…
Allegria, the latest stunning collection of homewares and fashion from Australian brand Eadie Lifestyle, celebrates the joy that comes from rediscovering our inner child. Beautiful pieces that represent an elegant playfulness that we all feel as the weather warms up, the seaside beckons, and our curiosity takes us near and far searching for summertime adventures!
This season, creative director Trudie Cox’s inspiration comes from the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. “Gidget, our stunning new print, is a showstopper, and has been designed in three striking colour palettes. Gidget sits beautifully with Camille, our exclusive new summer hero cushion, delicately finished with hand embroidered detail.”
New Gidget cushion
In true Eadie style, the exquisite fabrics, textures, and exclusive weaves are the star of the show. “Elevated linens, cottons and velvets that exude luxury and will easily transform your homes into summertime havens that are relaxed, indulgent and joyful. Just how summer should feel,” she says.
Eadie’s fashion pieces are gorgeous too
“This season sees us expand our popular tabletop and accessories range. Beautifully curated linen, serving platters and mugs, to celebrate the ritual of summertime dining with family and friends. Our glass candle holders are dreamy and will take your dining table from day to night with absolute class and stvle.”
Other highlights include the introduction of new sheer linen curtains, their infamous Bedouin cushion now available in musk, and the beautiful jute basket sets, lovingly woven by their talented artisans in India.
As usual, Trudie brings to life the character Eadie, the spirit of the brand, when designing each collection. This time, this included the creation of a beautiful video we’re sharing here for the very first time.
Shot on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula at Cassis in Red Hill, Trudie took a unique approach to the creation of this film. The project was as considered as the artisanal process applied to their handcrafted products, including the writing and recording of an Eadie song that formed the narrative of the film.
“This project encapsulates more than the beautiful hand crafted pieces we create. It’s about the spirit and soul of Eadie Lifestyle, and that feeling of home that lives inside us all.”
Trudie ends: “I invite you to have fun with this collection. It is designed to mix and match, be playful yet elegant, and most importantly, to feel joy on the journey. We have loved creating Allegria and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.”
It’s not often that we feature an overseas home but this one is so full of colour and whimsy that we just had to share it. Located in Canada, the beautifully renovated home was designed by Reena Sotropa In House Design Group with a particular emphasis on green and coral pink. “Our clients have an incredibly colourful and playful personal style that they wanted to reflect in the redesign of their home,” says the project’s interior designer, Alanna Dunn.
Entry
The owners’ colour obsession is established upon first entering the home – a saturated green ceiling is paired with bamboo trellis print wallpaper and a pair of bright coral upholstered ottomans. “Coral and green are our clients’ two favourite colours!” says Alanna.
Living room
Kitchen
Keen entertainers, the redesigned home features maximised spaces that make it the perfect party house. Clever space planning resulted in the main floor TV room being opened up onto the adjacent living room to serve as a formal dining room and this space boasts some of the boldest patterns in the home. An oversized floral fabric features in the form of two sets of curtains and a nearby upcycled green cabinet draws the eye.
“The green bamboo hutch in the dining room was a serious secondhand score! Our client found the Thomasville cabinet for a steal of $200! We had it refinished and lacquered in Kelly Green to bring a big dose of personality into the dining space,” says Alanna.
Dining room
The dining room features a gorgeous upcycled green cabinet
Upstairs, an existing bedroom was opened up onto the adjacent hallway to create a playroom for the family’s two young children. A super cute playhouse was built into the room (within the eaves of the roof) before being clad with scalloped cedar shingles.
“We chose to wrap the playroom with half-height wainscoting to protect the walls from the littlies who would occupy this space. Kate Spade wallpaper brings a big dose of colour and charm to the otherwise white monochromatic interior.”
Playroom
The room features lovely personal touches including a large gallery wall installation that includes art, prints and treasures.
Child’s bedroom
The master bedroom features a statement brass framed canopy bed that sits centrally against geometric textural wallpaper in grey and olive tones. Running off the master, an enviable walk-in closet/dressing room features purse-patterned Manuel Canovas wallpaper and a statement green island joinery unit for accessories.
Master bedroom
“Like the rest of their home, our clients wanted their bedroom to better reflect their fun personalities and tastes,” says Alanna.
Dressing room
And rather than hanging traditional artwork, a gorgeous series of kimonos and fans take centre stage. “The kimonos hanging down the white hallway are all heirloom family treasures belonging to our client, her mum and her grandmother!”
This is an edited extract from the new book Style: The Art of Creating a Beautiful Home by Natalie Walton.
Living rooms are important spaces where our public and private lives intersect. They are where we gather to welcome guests and entertain. But they are also where we decompress and relax at the end of the day. Increasingly, they are open-plan spaces and need to work within a greater scheme. Bringing all the elements together cohesively requires care and consideration. And, if you want a space that lives up to its true potential, make it personal and create with conviction.
Stylist and author Natalie Walton
Not sure which style choices to make? All decisions should be based on the answer to one key question. When you step into your living room, how do you want to feel? Remember, creating a beautiful home is less about focusing on a look and more about embracing how you want to experience the space. Every choice we make in our homes has an impact on our emotions. Everything is an extension of you and who you are. Colour is a powerful example: we can all respond differently to even slight differences in shades. When it comes to choosing what to include in your space—from art to a sofa—focus on feeling. If you want to experience calm, for example, try a subdued palette, simple forms and soft textures. This will inform the way you arrange the space, too. Asymmetry is more relaxed and will make you want to linger longer. However, if you want to turn up the voltage and create with artful mastery, find a nexus between contrast and cohesion. Play with the friction between raw and refined, simple and sophisticated, dark and light.
Consider the function of the room. It would be futile to focus on the guest experience if you entertain only occasionally. However, astute choices in sourcing can result in furniture and decor that can be adaptable and used in new ways over time. A stool can act as a side table or seat; a daybed can perform a double duty as seating one day and in a bedroom the next. Mixing pieces from different genres and periods will create visual interest and can make the space more representative of your story. The juxtaposition of modern and old, textured and smooth elevates the contrasting elements and enlivens the space. However, when mixing materials or eras, work within a restrained palette for unity and harmony.
Redefine the space
It’s all too easy to rely on walls to define the frame of the living room. However, spaces feel much more intimate when you bring furniture off the walls. When sofas are pushed against the perimeter, the space in the middle of the room can feel like a dead zone. Instead, use area rugs to define the room. Bringing everything closer together creates intimacy and makes the space feel more inviting. Floor lamps can flank sofas and occasional seating. For additional depth, add a bench or side table behind the sofa and layer with books, table lamps and sculptural objects.
Engage the eye
We want to create spaces that are complex yet cohesive. Our brains need stimulation, otherwise we lose interest and can become demotivated. No one wants that for their home, or life. While we don’t need to create sensory overload, visual appeal is important. Create spaces that are multi-dimensional; avoid having all your furniture and objects on one plane. Play with a mix of heights, such as pendant lights from the ceiling, articulated floor lamps, table lamps with curvaceous forms, a duo of coffee tables, a couple of plinths at varying heights, art that guides the eye upwards, a few stools and a rug that grounds it all. Scale is important, too. Avoid oversized sofas, rugs that are too small and coffee tables that don’t meet the visual weight of the seating area and overall space. Aim for impact in at least one area—perhaps a pendant or an artwork. Bring it all together with a unified palette and subtle shifts in tones.
Statement sofa
Sofas are always a big investment and the centrepiece of any living room. Everything from the sofa’s form to how it is furnished will have an impact on your experience of the space. Always remember the atmosphere you want to create. Homes that feel engaging can embrace unexpected forms, such as a curved sofa. A handful of cushions in jewel-like colours can enhance the sofa experience. Balance is key here. Too many cushions and the arrangement seems more for show than comfort. Not enough and the space becomes a study in form. Find the balance that works best for you.
Curated coffee table
Coffee tables provide another opportunity to express personal tastes and interests. Commit to creating an atmosphere that enhances your experience. Create cohesion and display favourite books and decorative objects in a grid formation. Sculptural decorative pieces, plants, round trays or asymmetrical decor can help soften the effect. Groups of three or five please the eye, providing variety and interest. Also, work within the tones of the room and keep proportion in mind—both in relation to the size of your table with your sofa, as well as the objects on display. Bitsy collections can quickly get lost. A tray is a good way to corral your collection and give it more weight. Hide away any necessary but functional objects, such as remote controls, in a beautiful box. Only display what helps elevate the experience of the room. Also, appeal to the senses and include candles, flowers and plants. While fragrance cannot be seen, it is an essential ingredient in the experience of any considered home.
Sideboard style
A sideboard or console serves as a way to make your living room personal and intimate. While it often provides a resting place for functional objects, such as lamps or a television, it also allows you to display collections of art, books, ceramics and more. Create a dialogue between these objects, uniting them through materials, palette or provenance. A sideboard might be an opportunity to display seasonal blooms or foraged finds from nature. Just as you want to create a mix of heights within the living room, aim for variety on any surface, too. Ensure you include a mixture of forms—from sculptural to linear—to add interest and curiosity. Also, don’t be afraid to be ambitious with what you create. A sideboard or console is a great way to experiment on a small scale, without the commitment or cost that’s required when restyling an entire room.
Style: The Art of Creating a Beautiful Home by Natalie Walton is published by Hardie Grant Books, RRP $60. Photography by Chris Warnes.
With Australian property prices still sky-high, many of us have abandoned the quarter-acre dream in favour of apartment living. And when it comes to the art of apartment living, interior designer, media personality and Interiors Addict fave Neale Whitaker has lots of fabulous, practical advice. From creating discrete zones to selecting supersized furniture and artwork (controversial, I know!), Neale has lots of great apartment styling tips – many of which he explored when creating this Melbourne apartment in conjunction with KING and Mirvac.
Neale Whitaker in the Melbourne apartment that he styled recently
Upsize furniture & artwork With many people downsizing from larger homes into apartments, Neale says that many people wrongly assume they must scale everything down and fill the space with smaller pieces. “This creates a doll’s house effect where because everything is smaller, it creates the illusion that the space is smaller. To create a feeling of space, it’s far better to upsize and have fewer pieces overall,” says Neale.
For instance, rather than opting for a two-seater in the apartment pictured, Neale chose a 2.5-seater as well as an occasional chair, ottoman and set of two complementary coffee tables from KING. “This apartment really isn’t that big but choosing larger pieces made it feel that way,” says Neale.
Lounge room
And this idea holds for art and mirrors too – upsizing both not only draws the eye up but makes a space feel instantly larger. “Basically, when in doubt, go bigger as it will allow a small space to feel like a large one,” says Neale.
Create distinct zones Whether you live in a house or apartment, most of us are familiar with open plan living and understand the pressure to create specific living zones – this tension is amplified with apartment living but Neale has some practical solutions.
“In this apartment I used contrasting rugs to delineate the dining and living zones, but I also like to use room dividers where possible,” says Neale. The designer used the KING Vertio wall unit as part of the design – in this case it was wall mounted but the design can be used as a freestanding room divider. “A room divider creates distinct zones within an open plan area while giving you extra storage and display areas too,” says Neale.
The KING Vertio unit can be seen on the left. Artwork by Kerry Armstrong.
Multifunctionality “With people spending much more time at home, all of us are seeking greater functionality from our houses and furniture items that double up are at a premium,” says Neale who explains that this is even more pressing when living in an apartment. Great multi-tasking furniture items include the aforementioned room divider as well as gas-lift storage beds. “KING has some great sofas and desks with built-in phone chargers too,” says Neale.
Neale included a multipurpose study nook in a recess in the apartment’s hallway.
Embrace the full colour palette – not just neutrals When it comes to your colour and materials palette, don’t assume that you must revert to white and bright. In this apartment, Neale chose a medley of colours inspired by the Australian landscape – rusty red, terracotta, greens and brown.
“There’s a lot of rules about compact spaces that don’t necessarily make a lot of sense. You don’t need to limit yourself to neutrals and blonde wood to make things feel bigger,” says Neale who used dark timber and a moody contrast wall in this apartment also – neither of which made it feel smaller.
The master bedroom features a moody contrast wall. Artwork by Daniel Butterworth.
The master bedroom’s contrast wall is painted in a Porter’s Paint tone that sits somewhere between dark grey and dark brown. “Again, it’s counterintuitive but that dark tone really made the room pop.”
Located on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, this home serves as a coastal getaway for an older couple who harbour future plans for it to become their forever home. With grown up children and grandchildren, the couple engaged Jasmine McClelland Design to design a beautiful home that the whole family could enjoy but that was age-proofed too. “They were keen to make it suitable for when they retire in the future so wanted a lift, walk-in bathroom and allowance for rails down the track,” says Jasmine of the home that sits on a leafy coastal block and has enviable ocean views.
The home’s striking entry
“As a house designed for entertaining, the kitchen was always going to be the beating heart of the home. As such we installed an extra-long island bench where friends and family can sit and chat whilst meals and drinks are made,” says Jasmine who raised the cabinetry off the floor on a steel frame to reduce what would have been a rather heavy feature if executed differently.
Kitchen
“The couple love wood and weren’t afraid to use different colour and textures which adds warmth without upstaging views of the water,” says Jasmine who just received an HIA award for her work on the home’s expansive kitchen. Combining timber veneer with teal coloured Laminex overhead units, slimline Dekton benchtop and pop-up rangehoods, the kitchen is the heart of the home.
Butler’s pantry
“One of the most important aspects of the brief was the preservation of a much-loved tree visible from the former kitchen. It was the backdrop to the preparation and celebration of many family meals in the past,” says Jasmine who installed picture windows in the kitchen area so that the beloved tree can frame future memories too. The home sits on the site of the couple’s old holiday home.
Living room
The ensuite was designed for maximum relaxation and combines mosaic tiles with a freestanding bath and large skylight where the couple can enjoy the ever-changing light above. The laundry is a statement space that features orange cabinetry and the mud room is rather playful too. “Both spaces were designed with fun and colour in mind and, though they are primarily functional inclusions,” says Jasmine
Ensuite
Laundry
“We are most proud of the way the interiors, build, landscaping and architecture came together seamlessly in this beautiful, luxuriously comfortable home. The most rewarding part of the project was to return to the completed space and see how happy the clients were. They were satisfied that the job had met and exceeded their brief.”
Established in Victoria in 1945, Robert Gordon is something of a stalwart of the Australian homewares scene. In the 1980s, the business was taken from a small family run operation to new heights under the stewardship of Robert and Barbara Gordon. The business remains in the family with three of their four children running the current business that employs 50 people and spans retail (giftware), hospitality (supplying tableware to cafes and restaurants) and now interiors with the launch of the Robert Gordon Interiors Collection.
The new range features a gorgeous basin collection
With a background in architecture and fine art, Barbara and Robert’s son Bobby is the mastermind behind the new range. “I have a passion for interiors and worked as an architect for a while. I saw that we had the capability to make larger ceramic pieces and felt there was a gap in the Australian market for locally made ceramic basins and light fittings,” he says.
The stylish new collection encompasses five basin styles (available in eight different colours) as well as wall sconces and pendant lights. Bobby and his team did a lot of research and development into developing new shapes and used their existing knowledge to create larger ceramic objects. “The range is really unique in the market in that it is comprised of fully vitrified stoneware and is Australian made,” says Bobby who explains that most Australian bathroomware manufacturing has moved offshore.
The pearl wall sconce is a standout in the range
“It’s such a pleasure to make things on a bigger scale and to create something large and impactful for people’s homes,” says Bobby. The range has been very well received so far – the handmade nature of the product no doubt key to its success. “As a material, as opposed to things like concrete, ceramics are tried and tested and there is something so simple and trustworthy about them,” says Bobby.
The basins retail between $600 and $1,300 and the lighting from $190-to-$500. So, while not the cheapest on the market, the range is pretty affordable when you consider it is handmade locally. “The price point hasn’t been an issue at all so far, and we see this range as the really premium side of our business so it will be more expensive,” says Bobby.
Robert Gordon has certainly undertaken a style evolution over the last decade and while the brand’s offering is vast and encompasses many styles, the handmade element is what really sets it apart – it’s perhaps serendipitous that handmade ceramics are back in vogue.
“People in general have a greater appreciation of their home and space and what they are eating and drinking out of. The industry has gone back to the 80s with people wanting to do pottery classes and see how things are made. And with our pieces, when you pick them up or touch them, you can really feel the makers behind them.”
“I see our pieces as not just furniture but sculptural pieces and talking points. Our furniture is not for everybody, but I’m not interested in creating pieces for everyone either,” says Byron Georgouras of Sydney’s Alpha Modern. Originally kicking off as a vintage furniture restoration business, in a full circle move, Byron now designs an original range inspired by the same pieces. And, when you look at the Alpha Modern range as a collective, the new pieces sit very harmoniously with the old.
Inside the Alpha Modern Alexandria studio where vintage reupholstered pieces mix with new designs
“We definitely put a more contemporary slant on the older pieces and a vintage slant on the new ones,” says Byron who explains that 50% of the pieces are restoration works and 50% are brand new. Alpha Modern’s latest series is the Puff collection which is a great example of how vintage designer pieces inform what they do now.
Byron in the studio. A series of Puff occasional chairs can be seen on the rack behind.
“My background is in the music industry, events and brand activation. I used to do a lot of the Smirnoff tents at Falls Festival and Splendour in the Grass,” says Byron who came to Alpha Modern when his events career stalled due to the pandemic. But besides creating spaces and experiences, Byron has always collected designer furniture, sculptures and artwork and happened to grow up sailing and working on timber boats too – an experience that put him in good stead in the furniture restoration business.
“Fundamentally there’s not that much of a difference between restoring a timber sailing boat and a mid-century lounge. You must strip both back, refinish them and repair the joinery,” he says.
Sustainability is an important part of the business too and Alpha Modern uses sustainable Australian timbers, non-toxic products and locally sourced fabrics where possible. “We’re very conscious of our imprint and that’s a big thing for us – it’s a part of our DNA,” says Byron who sources primarily Scandinavian and Italian vintage pieces, often through clients that are looking to change up their interiors.
The brand’s Angelis range is truly unique – it uses brightly coloured 1960s vintage Italian wedding tapestries for the seat upholstery combined with a curved sofa design. “There was a custom that Italian newlyweds would be given a beautiful velvet tapestry as a family heirloom. They are essentially a bedspread, but they never got used and were often put away boxed in cupboards,” says Byron who sources the tapestries from Italy before giving them a new lease of life.
The beautiful Angelis sofa features a vintage Italian tapestry on the seat
“Overall, all I’d say our aesthetic is one of maximalism in a modernist world. We use bright pops of playful colour and work with textiles that are bold and exciting but we also pay tribute to classic forms.”
Not long after I had my first child, and moved into my first house, I purchased two relatively expensive sofas to mark the occasion. Mid-century in style, said sofas looked fabulous but as time kicked on, I realised that tailored lines aside, the fabric choice was totally unsuitable for life with a young family. Rookie error, right?
And after spending a small fortune having the sofas cleaned every six months, I concluded that our next set would be a much more family friendly affair. Not only was I seeking a much hardier fabric choice, but I was also after a sofa with removable covers and one that was stylish too. Tall order you say? Enter, the Lounge Lovers Hampton sofa.
Me enjoying my new Lounge Lovers sofas. The painting is by the talented Elle Campbell.
A modern yet timeless design, the Lounge Lovers Hampton sofa boasts the sort of clean lines that complement just about any interior as well as stylishly proportioned, tapered legs. Available in four standard colours (a creamy linen, pale grey, mid grey and ivory) as well as a variety of custom hues ranging from terracotta to forest green and dusty pink, the fabrics are designed to withstand the rough and tumble of family life. It’s certainly something I can attest to as my young trio give this set a workout on the daily.
The tapered oak leg finishes the look
But ultimately the big selling point for me was the design’s removable covers – I love that I can take the covers off and have them cleaned. Not only does this make the sofas super practical but the other great thing about removable covers is that you can purchase an extra set when you’re looking for a lounge room refresh. I’m thinking I might even try a deep green next winter.
The covers attach to the frame via super strong velcro.
Good looks aside, the sofas also deliver on the comfort front. Boasting deep seats that enable both sitting and snoozing, the sofas’ foam seat cushions are wrapped in a feathery fibre mix. The result is a plush yet firm feel – you can really sink into the cushions, but they spring back ensuring that each sofa holds its shape. Having originally had quite a tailored sofa, this was important to me.
As for the different shapes and sizes within the Hampton range, there are a variety of options to choose from depending on your lounge room. Fully customisable, the Hampton is available in two, three and four seat iterations as well as a chaise and corner sofa option. There’s also a matching occasional chair and ottoman if you’d rather a sofa and two occasional chairs for instance.
And in these tricky COVID-induced times, where it’s not unusual to hear of six-month waits for furniture, Lounge Lovers hold a variety of Hamptons sofas in stock for immediate purchase – another plus in my book.
Me rather chuffed with my new sofas
Overall, the Hampton has proven a great choice for my family – and that’s before you even consider its comfort, customisation options and relatively affordable price tag.
*The Lounge Lovers Hamptons sofa starts at $1,999 for a two-seater.
The biophilic design trend shows no signs of abating if the latest Laminex collaboration is anything to go by. Created together with CJH Studio, the series of gorgeous, bespoke living spaces showcase the versatility of the Laminex Woodgrain laminate collection while celebrating the beauty of timber.
Kitchen
“It’s about considering it in a new way, pushing and understanding the material. You need to think outside the square with what’s possible with the products,” says CJH Studio’s Cassie James-Herrick who produced four minimalist interior spaces for the project including a kitchen, bedroom, living room and bathroom with concealed laundry.
Bathroom and concealed laundry
Known for her use of minimalist, muted tones and natural materials, Cassie and her studio proved the perfect fit for the collaboration. The spaces certainly showcase the creative potential of joinery and feature bull nose benches with tight radii, curved shelves and bulkheads in generous convex and concave forms. And at times, Cassie mixed several grains, finishes and textures to create an unexpected yet subtle patchwork effect.
Bedroom
The kitchen is a standout space that features Laminex Aged Ash (chalk finish) with accents in Laminex Milkwood on the splashback and drawer interiors. Laminex Danish Walnut (chalk finish) features on the plinth and internal pantry shelving while Laminex Mirror Smoked Metallic is an unexpected finish in the internal bar.
The kitchen pantry features a metallic Laminex finish inside
The living room’s multifunctional joinery design was crafted from Laminex Danish Walnut (chalk finish) and it really makes the most of the space. The hard-working design encompasses a concealed desk area (including pull out seat on the left) as well as display bookshelves and a metallic concealed bar unit (Laminex Mirror Smoke).
Living room
The concealed bar in the living room
The bathroom features a clever integrated laundry and pairs Laminex Milkwood with a light natural travertine bench top and floor tiles.
It’s not every day that a home renovation is inspired by a rug but it happens to be the case for this Southern Highlands NSW home owned by Designer Rugs account manager Jonathon Murray and his husband Brian Hadnutt. “My client had a magnificent Designer Rugs rug in his living room, boasting fun patterns and colours such as ruby, orange, hot pink, black and white. This palette became the cornerstone for the living room colour palette and derivations of this palette were repeated throughout the home,” says interior designer Lynne Bradley who led the home’s gorgeous, colour-filled overhaul.
Master bedroom
Previously rented out, and used occasionally as a holiday home, the couple made the decision to leave the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney and make this home their permanent residence in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. And while the all-white abode was very liveable, the couple wanted to make the home more inspiring, colourful and useable before making a permanent move.
This bedroom features another fabulous rug!
“Generally, the home had great bones, but it was a bit vanilla,” says Lynne, who set about transforming the home with colour, texture, and floorplan changes. The renovation also had to complement the couple’s existing furniture and act as a backdrop to their art and antiques collections.
As for the main living area, a new gas fireplace acts as a focal point and welcome area for guests – Dulux Red Vine creates drama in the space. “There was no fireplace in this room, so we designed one with bench seating either side and under seat storage. The room is cosy yet stimulating, provides an attractive focal point from the kitchen and frames the garden beyond, beautifully,” says Lynne.
The living room’s statement rug inspired the home’s colour palette
The kitchen received a partial renovation – Lynne filled in the bar stool area with new shallow cupboards, replaced the tall storage with integrated appliances and replaced the kick boards and cabinetry hardware. A new Kelly Wearstler pendant light hangs above the nearby dining table and Dulux Red Vine features in that space too.
Kitchen
Dulux Red Vine accentuates the original paintings on the wall in the dining room
The bedrooms were overhauled with a warm mix of paint (Dulux Turkish Bath) and soft, patterned furnishings. The couple receive many visitors but often work from home too so the guest room acts as a study when required. The thoughtfully designed study nook was originally a built-in robe before Lynne modified it.
Guest bedroom
Study nook
“The style of the home now is both dramatic and comfortable and while it has a strong colour palette it doesn’t dominate – rather it nurtures. This project was indeed a great joy to work on and the reason for this is that my clients trusted me and didn’t fight the process. My clients have become my dear friends for life!”
Designer Lynne Bradley with her client Jonathon Murray in the home’s gallery/hallway
Charlie Hinckfuss, founder and director of MCM House, shares his top tips on achieving the renowned home brand’s signature style.
1. Start with natural linen
Start by creating a sense of effortless structure with natural linens. Earthy-hued natural linen sofas are a great option as they bring a relaxed resolve to a sophisticated silhouette.
2. Add accents of aged timber
Integrating aged timber into the home brings character and warmth to a space. You can achieve this by incorporating furniture with timber frames, as well as pieces crafted completely from reclaimed timber, celebrating the beauty in the imperfections that the material comes with. The natural appeal of timber complements a range of interiors and by bringing this organic material indoors, it also has the ability to connect your indoor and outdoor areas.
3. Layer with contrasts
To add dimension to your sophisticated interior, you can layer the space with a contrasting subtle seating option. Experiment with contrasting fabrics, textures, or colours. Try to find a piece that can be moved from week to week or month to month to create a different perspective.
4. Soft, moody lighting
Set the tone for your room with your choice of lighting. Soft, moody lighting is key to creating a relaxed environment with an elegant feel. Look beyond your usual lighting layout, whether this be with a floor lamp in the corner of the room, or an interesting table lamp on your console. The subtle ambiance created can transform a room into a sanctuary.
5. Lastly, spark conversation
A statement piece that embodies personality can transform the room. You can leave a lasting impression with one eye-catching piece, or a few objects that add character. When creating your home environment, always try to look for an object that sparks a topic of conversation or imagination.
-Influenced by classic contemporary design and tasteful simplicity, MCM House (founded by Charlie in 2005) offers an unmatched combination of furniture, lighting, textiles, rugs, decor and curated art from around the world.
Before & after: Country kitchen gets classic makeover
Located in Orange NSW, this kitchen renovation was completed just prior to last Christmas when the project’s interior designer Christine Ghrayche,…
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With temperatures starting to plunge in many parts of the country, it’s time to get the winter woolies out. Whether you favour bold, patterned designs or neutral textures there’s something for everyone in the latest line-up of blankets and throws.
L&M Home Alby blanket eucalypt: Available in three sizes and crafted from Australian wool (and with a brushed fringe trim) there’s something classic yet contemporary about this gorgeous blanket. A coordinating cushion is available too. From $249.
Adairs Bee Green Knitted Throw: Designed by the Adairs in-house design team, this throw has a fun, graphic feel but is neutral enough to complement any spaces. We think it would be lovely in a chic nursery. $129.99.
Linen House Lana gold throw: You can’t go wrong with a super chunky knit and this blanket certainly ticks that box. Plus, the sumptuous colour sings autumn/winter vibes. $85.
CURIO Practice Turn On Check blanket: Made exclusively for Jardan by Melbourne’s CURIO, these blankets are super soft and made from 100 per cent Australian fine merino wool. Each blanket is reversible and the colour ways are rather delectable. $540.
West Elm Mixed Herringbone Blanket: Made from cotton, this classic design features a decorative herringbone motif and is available in ivory and graphite. From $209.
Slowdown Studio Bronte throw: Characterised by their bold designs, the hardest part is choosing a favourite from the highly covetable Slowdown Studio range. The 100 per cent cotton designs work perfectly on the couch, as a picnic rug or even as wall hangings. $335.
Sage & Clare Caro brushed wool blanket: Playful pom poms and lush, brushed wool – what’s not to love? The colour palette make this the coolest plaid number around. $279.
IKEA INGABRITTA throw: Available in five colours including khaki, mustard, grey, white and pink, this simple, textured knit throw is a fail-safe option. $39.
Target Jagger Chenille Throw – Sage Check: Lighter in weight making it perfect for the beginning and end of the seasons, this chenille throw comes in two neutral colour ways as well as this fabulous checked sage green. $29.
Castle large Secret Garden knit throw: I own one of these vibrant throws and can tell you that it’s even better in real life. It works in the lounge room, bedroom and just about anywhere else in the house. $159.
A designer living room inspired by Fantales lollies
Woodgrain textures and bold colour combine in this stunning living room collaboration inspired by the classic Allen’s lollies. Laminex teamed…
Designed by The Stylesmiths lead interior designer Priscilla Elasi, this renovation and extension, to a heritage red brick Federation home located in Sydney’s Burwood, has a timeless feel and uncomplicated design. With a project brief that called for liveability, the home has been designed to support the everyday life and entertaining needs of its occupants; a busy family of five.
The home’s gorgeous heritage front
The sensitive renovation highlights the original home’s heritage details; the exact details that drew the owners to the home. “These features remain the quiet heroes that inspired every decision but our clients are what made this experience special, and I wanted to do them justice. Even Uncle Amil who lives next door was included in the conversation,” says Priscilla.
Hallway
From the front door, architectural mouldings and archways at the entrance hall work to set the scene. The front reading room has been lavishly coated in layers of deep navy to further reflect the era of the home, using rich colours to create a moody yet cosy feel by the fire. An eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings complete the sumptuous space.
Stained windows are framed by midnight velvet Mokum fabric curtains and complemented by the Healey soft chair by Walter Knoll in tan leather. An authentic vintage crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling.
Fireplace
A new bathroom with integrated laundry replaces what was formerly the undersized kitchen. Fresh and neutral, the understated joinery allows the aged brass tapware to shine, while Calacatta marble tiling in a classic hexagon mosaic pattern takes the attention away from what is hidden behind the shaker style joinery doors.
Bathroom
The large rear addition marks the transition from heritage to modern with more neutral tones featured. The dining area boasts a ten-seater solid timber table paired with black leather chairs that complement the kitchen island bench stools by Grazia & Co. Skylights above let natural light permeate while pure linen curtains soften the space.
Dining room
Handmade and slightly imperfect, Moroccan Zellige tiles add depth to the kitchen splashback while the marble island is the main attraction – the underside of the bench is wrapped in a deep walnut colour. “By positioning the sink to the left side of the kitchen, the generous counter becomes flexible enough to double as a second, less formal dining space,” says Priscilla. Nearby, a hidden butler’s kitchen was a must for the family of five.
Kitchen
The rear lounge area features a double-sided wood fireplace that can be enjoyed from the outside too. “Our clients craved a space to unwind, prompting the use of neutral colours, plush furnishings and warm accents to realise their vision. Walking through, every element is of generous proportions, including the emotive art that feels immersive and soothing with shades of blue, orange and green,” says Priscilla.
Lounge room
The kidney shaped pool keeps the kids entertained
Upstairs, the daughter’s bedroom replicates the use of natural fibres and fabrics – a wool-blend Armadillo and Co rug underfoot, light timber side tables and aged brass antique bed frame, kept for sentimental reasons. The wardrobe joinery references the Federation style.
BIG W’s new line of homewares, Sunrise Valley, will give your home an Insta-worthy update for autumn without breaking the bank.
Introducing autumnal tones and patterns, the range has landed in store and online in time for the cooler months ahead. Gary Chen, senior designer for home at BIG W, said they wanted to focus on small changes that will have a big impact. Taking inspiration from Scandinavia, you’ll find stylish yet practical items featuring deeper colours, tactile fabrics and big floral prints. Bag yourself a trend-inspired piece for under $10!
This gorgeous earthy toned set features a geometric quilted design that will subtly add texture to your room. Once again, the still on-trend rainbow motif is still there but pared back.
I was thrilled to have the opportunity to check out, touch, feel and sit on Freedom’s new autumn winter collection recently and love how the iconic brand continues to develop its own aesthetic, designing in house and curating from elsewhere specifically for our Australian lifestyle. The focus is on timeless pieces which can be added to over the years, moving away from the idea of disposable and fast furniture.
Read to the end for your chance to win a $500 Freedom giftcard.
Turning 40 last year, Freedom is proud to be affordable and within reach of the average Aussie, but doesn’t believe that should mean sacrificing style or quality.
In furniture, Freedom’s occasional chair game is strong this year! CEO Blaine Callard explained that these chairs, and in fact all furniture, cannot just look good and has to pass multiple comfort tests before it makes it into the range. There’s no point in a fabulous looking armchair nobody wants to sit in, right?! Not in real homes anyway!
This curvy boucle number, Cobble, was my pick and you can take my word for it, they’re as comfy as they look too!
In homewares I loved the bathroom towels and accessories, the bed linen and the lamps in particular. It was great to meet the person who designed the below floor lamp I loved, because Freedom really are designing in house, not buying from one of the huge suppliers who supply multiple chain stores. How cute is the little pull switch and the pleated shade? And of course it’s brass, which I’m always drawn to like a magpie.
This Loft sofa was a really clever sectional with fully upholstered storage/side table sections too, so you have ultimate flexibility to move them around, perhaps deciding you want the side table between seats first, and then moving the table to the outer edge of the sofa later.
Underneath that timber top, where you can place your coffee or wine, there’s heaps of storage (for throws or toys perhaps!) and even a hidden built-in charger for your devices. Love it! I loved the rug and coffee table here too. And that coloured glass vase is part of a range which has apparently been flying off the Freedom shelves.
This stunning Sorrento tan leather sofa was another favourite of mine and comes in multiple configurations and colours and fabric too! And the oversized, Japanese-inspired Grande square coffee table is a beautiful, unique piece.
Like much of the new black timber furniture, the coffee table is made from solid mango wood and made to last more than a season or two! The mum in me sees this as a hardwearing low coffee table where the kids could play lego when guests weren’t expected!
These textured towels felt beautiful and I’m all for elevating something as mundane as the necessary evil toilet brush holder by making it marble!
Cushions are exclusive designs to Freedom and all had gorgeous textures and detailing like embroidery and piping, in gorgeous textiles designed to easily mix and match.
The overall palette is what I’d call warm neutrals and really does have a timeless feel, with the ability to dial up or down the contrast and number of pieces depending on your own personal taste and the size of your rooms and home.
Lighting was another highlight with table lamps galore (everyone always has room for one more, right?!) and these divine geometric pendants which look great alone of clustered together.
Bedroom furniture has had a refresh too, with designers really considering the whole package holistically. I really love the upholstered bench at the end of this bed which could have so many great uses, like in your entry to sit on and put shoes on. And you could store the shoes underneath too!
Freedom have also recently launched a new Australian designed and made mattress range. Inspired by Australian landscapes they are complemented with Warwick fabric on the sides and matching base. They’re available in firm, medium and plush feels.
A sofa from the relaunched Autograph range
Tapping into the increasing demand for personalisation in our homes and elsewhere, Freedom has also relaunched its Autograph range this month, offering consumers the ability to design their own sofa, whether they’re looking for something traditional or contemporary. It offers countless design options with the ability to choose from 21 premium fabric and over 15 leather options. There are three distinct arm styles (contemporary, double and sloped) and new leg styles with three timber colours and a metal option, as well as having a low or high base for easy cleaning. All of this is available in thousands of options for a truly customised piece that fits your room size, use and style perfectly.
“We believe great design should be available to everyone. That’s why we’re creating unique pieces to seamlessly fit into our Australian homes, easy to piece together and personalise to create your own look,” says head of design Kate Hopwood.
Prices for the Autograph range start at $1,439.
Some of the new range is in store now with more dropping over the next couple of months.
Launching with a single store in Sydney in 1981, Freedom was an Australian retail pioneer, bringing design in house well before other Australian furniture retailers. In 2022, Freedom has come full circle, once again designing and curating in-house to create beautiful products for our unique Australian lifestyle. Freedom is part of Greenlit Brands, an integrated retailer that designs manufactures, sources and retails a broad range of furniture, bedding and other homewares. Greenlit Brands employs more than 3,800 people with 300 stores across Australia and New Zealand.
