Freedom today held a grand opening of their new Hobart store with an official ribbon cutting by CEO Blaine Callard, together with head of retail Stuart Cole. The 1842 sqm location will showcase Freedom’s furniture and homewares collection with a focus on Australian design and style.
For the duration of the grand opening weekend (today until Sunday 26 February), customers can enjoy an exclusive discount of 25% off when they join MyFreedom* and free coffee by local brewer Wilfred Coffee.
Free totes for the first 200 shoppers!
Limited edition Freedom totes, designed by Hobart-based illustrator Sam Lyne, are on offer for the first 200 shoppers**, plus there’s events and workshops led by local businesses and creatives, celebrating Tasmania’s unique style and aesthetic.
Michelle Crawford, author/stylist/photographer, will host a tablescaping workshop in store on Saturday (25 February) at 2pm. Learn firsthand from the entertaining goddess how to set the table for Instagram-worthy goodness. $20 per person including freshly baked cake!
Instead of a traditional ribbon cutting, Freedom opted for a flower garland so they could reuse it in the store, created by Rebecca Williams of Farm Gate Flowers Tasmania. On Sunday 5 March, Rebecca is also hosting an interactive workshop in the new store, so customers can learn the art of flower arranging, and then take them home. $30 per person including flowers and a Freedom vase.
Bookings for both workshops are essential and places are limited.
With autumn around the corner, Linen House’s new Winter Sun collection is all about hibernation staples and getting cosy in style.
“This season’s collection embodies a winter utopia with gorgeous earthy tones, made to use not only for the colder months but all year round. A celebration of the desire to hibernate in staples that not only keep you warm but look and feel good is key!” said Emily Treganowan, head of design.
“Colours that are bold yet soft, materials that are warm but textured, and designs that stand out really do create both a homey but fashionable mood for your home this autumn and winter season.”
Retaining the brand’s iconic designs and fabrics from previous seasons, the collection boasts stunning palettes across numerous fabrics: lustrous and fluffy, knitted and ribbed, or quilted in velvet. Choose from cotton corduroy and cotton chenilles, as well as their best-selling pure linen.
Meanwhile, yarn-dyed cotton, textured cotton slubs, and cotton sateens are still omnipresent, all adorned by stripes and classic or abstract patterns with florals and geometric patterns.
After a 25-year career as a retail buyer for David Jones and TK Maxx, Sydney’s Abbie Evans thought the time was right for a career pivot – she was ready to leave corporate life behind and work for herself on a business/passion project. “Home is where my heart has always been, but I felt there was a gap in the market. We’re all about dressing your home with those fabulous final touches,” says Abbie who launched the homewares brand Gigi&Tom at the end of 2021.
Gigi&Tom’s pumpkin chair has been a top seller on the site
Promising to bring your space to life with ‘unique home fashion without the designer price tag,’ the Gigi&Tom collection is comprised of an affordable array of fun pieces that are not essentially functional but more the cherry on the top. “I approach the home as I would a great outfit. At the core you have beautiful timeless basics but you freshen that up each season with trend-driven accessories and that’s where we come in,” says Abbie.
The Hellenistic range has been a huge hit with customers
Their target customer is often in their first home (rented or purchased), has a keen eye for fashion but doesn’t know how to bring that sense of style into their home. “Our customer is very aesthetically driven. We launched online because our customer lives on Instagram. Our customers have a really strong sense of their own aesthetic and style but often need help translating that at home,” says Abbie who has designed the range around four key trends making it easy for customers to create their own cohesive interior looks.
The brand’s Maximalist look
The current categories are Maximalist, Miami Deco, Biophilic and So Cal and you can purchase via category or trend which makes pulling the looks together seamless. Maximalist is all about embracing excess and features lots of jewel tones, layers and luxe textures as well as show stopping furniture while Miami Deco is described as ‘Art Deco with a gelato twist’ and combines beachy chic with retro glam and features a lot of pastel colour pops and bold shapes.
The Miami Deco look
Biophilic features organic shapes and is very nature inspired whereas So Cal is inspired by Southern Californian cool which is much more laidback, effortless and eclectic with lots of muted colours and woven textures.
The Biophilic look
With overflowing Pinterest boards, Abbie is constantly researching the latest in interior trends and she also attends major trade fairs like Maison & Objet for inspiration too. The design process starts with an array of mood boards that are created by Abbie and then handed over to her purchasing team who work with manufacturers to design and source products in relatively limited runs. “We don’t buy huge numbers of things because our customers want to be unique and they want things that are different to what their friends have,” says Abbie.
The So Cal look
In no surprise to us, the brand has captured colour lovers in a major way.
And with prices starting from just $10, the range is very accessible. “We think everyone should be able to have beautiful things without having to pay a designer price.”
And who are Gigi and Tom anyway? Her fur babies, of course!
For your chance to win every GIGI&TOM product in the below picture, from the art to the chair to the cushions, side table, candlesticks, bowl and vases (worth almost $900!), complete the form below.
For Summer 2023, Finnish design house Marimekko sets a completely new mood. The collection interprets better living through the lens of optimistic futurism, which is seen in the simplified and mono-material aesthetics of the season.
The new collection plays with dynamics between different shapes and the dialogue between positive and negative space.
The kitchen selection presents new essential items designed for casual, family style dining. Items in the Oiva tableware assortment come in a new brown base, which combines beautifully with white base ceramics from previous seasons. The collection also introduces new additions for tea lovers – brown base Oiva tea mugs and teapot in Seireeni (siren) print by Maja Isola from 1964.
In textiles there’s a new crewel embroidered Seireeni cushion cover, which is made from unbleached cotton linen blend and the quilted Seireeni bedspread made from unbleached cotton and recycled polyester filling.
The season’s colours play with the dialogue between nature’s own shaded and industrially manufactured colours. Natural shades, such as sand, burnt red and sky blue are mixed with artificial tones of spearmint green and joyful yellow. The overall aesthetic sets a hopeful atmosphere that yarns for those perfect summer days ahead.
The season’s prints offer futuristic interpretations of some Marimekko classics. Fresh colourways and simplified prints bring a breath of something new, yet familiar at the same time into the season.
The prints come in monochromatic shades and simplified aesthetics. Minimal icons, such as Tilliskivi (brick) by Armi Ratia, Seireeni (siren) and Unikko (poppy) by Maija Louekari and Pyykki (laundry) by Jenni Tuominen, which both showcase a hand-painted aesthetic.
Kmart is kicking the year off with a bang with its February home range. It features some of its best buys yet which is really saying something. Designed and developed by Kmart’s in-house design and buying team in Melbourne, the collection features a plethora of functional furnishings, on-trend textures and colourful home accent pieces including bedding, occasional chairs, rugs, decorative vases and more.
Kmart’s February home range features these lovely wares
“Our customers are constantly looking for new and affordable ways to refresh and update the spaces within their home and we are proud to be able to bring the latest home and décor trends from across the globe to Australia. This season, it’s about creating gentle, restful nooks within the home, whilst still injecting personality via pops of colour, unique textures and nostalgic shapes and angles,” says Kmart’s divisional merchandise manager Meryn Serong.
Kmart’s lovely new pot collection
There are excellent bedding options too
The range has been created around three key aesthetics (Timeless, Natural and Urban) and the prices start from just $5. The Timeless and Natural aesthetics are all about creating calm, cosy spaces and key pieces within those ranges feature ceramics in sculptural waves and curves as well as rattan, blonde timbers and fabrics like boucle and shearling. The Urban collection features black touches as well as bold coloured glassware.
We love this coloured glassware
Highlights from the range include the said coloured glassware which comes in $14 sets and provide endless tablescaping opportunities. There are fun new sculptural candles too and the new pot and vase line-up features some stellar designs.
The new towel line-up is pretty gorgeous
The candle range starts from $5
The brand’s popular DIY offering has been expanded also, reflecting the increasing popularity of upcycling and DIY renovating. Fix-up finds include a new range of statement handles perfect for transforming and elevating existing furniture pieces, as well as an array of versatile wall tiles.
There are plenty of great new lighting options too
Renting. Let’s face it – it’s got plenty of challenges, but there’s a certain sense of satisfaction in transforming a blank slate into something that feels cosy and ‘you’. And there are plenty of temporary ways you can style your rental property without running the risk of losing your bond and upsetting your landlord.
A serial renter in Sydney, Sophie Cartwright is a lighting designer and founder of the gorgeous new lighting brand Soffle. Today, she shares her top tips for adding personality to your rental space.
Sophie Cartwright
Use indoor plants to add a fresh feel Adding greenery into your rental space will give it an instant lift. Choose fake florals to jazz up your coffee table, add herb pots to add a homely feel to your kitchen, and an orchid or eucalyptus plants to reinvigorate your bathroom; an easy and inexpensive way to breathe life into your space.
Create a green corner and take it with you when you move house!
Create wow factor with a statement pendant light The main light in most rentals usually comes from a pendant light. With so many different affordable styles available, the main ceiling light is a real opportunity to stamp your personal design aesthetic on the space.
As well as providing plenty of lovely lumens, a large pendant light can be a focal point in a lounge, drawing the eye as you enter the room and tying everything together.
Replace window coverings Roller blinds or stained old curtains can make a rental feel very run-down. Switching these out for drapes or new curtains is a great way to introduce new colours and patterns into your home. Trial different fabrics and textures to liven up any space.
Photo: Draperly
Use table lamps to introduce colour and texture When starting to design your space, texture and colour are key ways to put your unique style into a home. As well as providing a lovely layer of warm, atmospheric lighting in a room, well-chosen table lamps can also bring a pop of colour and texture whether they’re on or not!
In the room below, the scallop jute Soffle lampshade paired with a textured base creates a striking look which provides drama and contrast against the neutral backdrop of the room.
Spend more on versatile furniture pieces The downside of rentals is that you’re often moving from one to the next, and for this you need versatile furniture pieces that work in any space. Sophie’s top tip is to choose pieces that will work hard for you. Think coffee tables that have heaps of storage, ottomans that can double as toy chests, or sofa sets that work well together or great separately as a sofa and occasional chairs.
A storage coffee table, like this one from West Elm, is a great idea for small spaces.
Create a reading nook with a floor lamp Floor lamps add height and elegance to a room, and they’re also great for dividing spaces up and creating different zones such as a reading nook. You can make these cosy corners with soft materials and a fabric lampshade, like this reading nook by Sophie, featuring Soffle’s extra-large scallop lampshade.
We love this Soffle Scallop lamp shade
Change up your lampshade for a quick transformation Lampshades are an easy, effective, fun (and affordable) way of quickly styling up a room. As well as complementing an existing design theme, they can also be a way of introducing bold new colours, patterns, materials and textures.
During the summer months, choose bright colours and linen textures to freshen up your look and during the cooler months opt for dark greens, blues and heavy textures to anchor your space and add warmth.
The Soffle scallop lamp shade below, in duck egg blue, sets off the hues for the rest of the room decor below. It creates a lovely, relaxing harmonious vibe while still hogging plenty of limelight for itself.
The brainchild and nickname of founder Sophie, Soffle offers a slice of Australian design that’s committed to doing good. Soffle works in partnership with SolarBuddy, and for every lamp purchased, they’ll donate $5 towards a solar light a child can use to light up their home with brightness and comfort. SolarBuddy works with children all around the world who don’t have access to this much-needed essential.
After trawling the Australian market in vain looking for beautiful, modern and affordable light solutions, Sophie took matters into her own hands. Soffle was created for like minded people who love the sense of warmth and welcome a well placed light can create.
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.
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Held biannually in Paris, Maison&Objet is one of the world’s most esteemed interior design trade fairs and this year’s event saw the celebrated Aussie interior designer Greg Natale debut his new collections with a major exhibition titled Fantaisie. Drawing on art, fashion, architecture and music, Greg’s gorgeous new lifestyle range spans tabletop, accessories and objets d’art and is finished in the designer’s signature mix of luxe materials including exotic marble and travertine, ceramic, crystal and brass.
Pieces from Greg Natale’s latest line-up
“I was inspired by the incredible intersection of art, fashion and music that emerged from the underground club scenes of the 1970s and 80s. Many of my new ceramics are named after the New Wave superstars of that era,” says Greg Natale.
Paying homage to Blondie frontwoman Deborah Harry, Debbie is a collection of vases, bowls and planters that layer punk rock inspired gold spikes or silver studs over elegant forms while Visage draws on London’s 1980s Blitz Kids and features shades of Bowie, Cocteau, Matisse and Picasso. The stylised silhouettes that zigzag across the collection recall the theatrical makeup worn by Steve Strange, the leader of the New Wave synth-pop group Visage.
Debbie collection
The Visage collection comes in two stylish colourways — deep, dramatic burgundy or the lighter, more artisanal sand
The Billy Idol inspired Billy bowl is raised on geometric platforms and features a perforated finish punctuated by gold or silver embellishments. The clean design is also a nod to the work of Swiss architect Mario Botta.
Billy collection
Onda is a series of sculptural accessories carved from jewel-toned marble and a sand and red travertine – the series of elegant bowls and vases feature gentle undulating wave-like profiles. The Jackie vase, Aristotle candle holders (available with Bianco or Nero Marquina marble accents) and Boule bowl are brass pieces inspired by ancient Greek columns and torcheries.
Onda collection
The Blitz bookends reflect Greg’s obsession with 1980’s postmodernism and the underground music scenes of the same era whiel the complementary Blitz candle holders feature stacked geometric shapes in black and clear crystal – they can be flipped up or down to create different looks. Finally, Greg has added his first wineglass to his signature tabletop collection – the stemless design joins the Studio 54-inspired Rubell family of tumblers and highballs.
The latest group art release from The Interiors Assembly, ‘Brighter Days’ is a curated collection of original artworks inspired by the Australian summer. “My brief to the artists involved was to create bright and uplifting works with a touch of summer,” says The Interiors Assembly founder Kelly Ferraro of the gorgeous range.
‘Our Port Douglas Holiday’ by Joan Blond. 105cm x 105cm
‘Dazed’ by Lauren Nicolas. 103cm x 113cm
The collection of original works starts at $500 and they range in size from 33 centimetres to 1.5 metres – the large ones are perfect for lofty spaces while the small ones would work well as part of a gallery wall or solo on a shelf.
There are plenty of celebrated artists in the show including Joan Blond, Aliki Kapoor and Tim Freeman to name just a few. “What I love about the collection is that our artists have a different interpretation of what summer means to them, and you can see this through their works,” says Kelly.
‘Where the Seaweed Swirls’ by Tania Chanter. 125cm x 94cm
The ever-popular Joan Blond is exhibiting a variety of new abstract styles including ‘Reflective Journey’ which is a riot of green offset by gold leaf. Tim Freeman has created two beautiful ‘hard lined’ originals for the show, both of which are mid-sized. ‘Main Beach Byron Bay’ features the location’s iconic lighthouse in the background.
‘Reflective Journey’ by Joan Blond. 95cm x 125cm
‘Main Beach Byron Bay’ by Tim Freeman. 83cm x 53cm
Aliki Kapoor’s ‘Bohemian Love,’ at 155cm x 155cm, is the largest piece in the collection. A stunning, abstract floral piece, textured pink flowers add tactility to the work. There’s some moodier pieces also including two gorgeous seascapes by Tania Chanter which are inspired by the deep tones of the ocean and the changing light throughout the day.
‘Bohemian Love’ by Aliki Kapoor. 155cm x 155cm
A new artist to The Interiors Assembly stable, Ros Gervay has created two beautiful floral mini works for this release including ‘Together they Grow’ which has some beautiful layering; some of its leaves almost look transparent.
‘Together they Grow’ by Ros Gervay. 33cm x 33cm
The exhibition is on now and will run until the end of January 2023 both online and at The Interiors Assembly’s gallery which is located in Victoria’s seaside Torquay. “We are looking forward to welcoming people to our space over the holiday period, where our coastline is busier than ever with those holidaying in our region and having fun!”
Freedom has launched its sales season early with up to 50% off across the entire store. From sofas (including Australian made ones) to dining tables, outdoor furniture, mattresses, lighting, rugs, cushions and more, there’s plenty on offer. Read on for our top picks.
Jimmy occasional chair: Down to $764 from $899 this on-trend occasional chair combines a slim steel frame with feather and fibre filled cushions. It’s perfect as an accent chair in a bedroom or lounge area.
Helsinki bed: At $639 (down from $799) this Scandi inspired bed is a great buy. Fully upholstered and featuring a foam-padded headboard with a soft corner finish, this design is simple enough that it would work in just about any home.
Sunshine Shore framed canvas: At 150cm x 100cm this large summer-themed piece is great for filling an empty wall without breaking the bank. $244 (was $349)
Studio carafe and tumbler set: At $14.50 (was $29.95) this ribbed glassware set is an absolute steal. Available in clear, grey or amber this set is ideal for a home office, dining space or bedside table.
Laclies floor rug: Made from natural wool with a 3D patterned design, this neutral hand tufted rug has a generous 10mm pile height. It also meets the requirements of the GoodWeave Label which means no underage or forced labour was used in the making of it. $359 (was $599).
Atlas leather sofa: Perfect for lounging with family or friends, this chunky 2.5 seat leather sofa features tailored panels with French seams and top-stitching details. It’s also made from semi-aniline leather which is easy to wipe down and becomes much more beautiful with time. $2774 (was $3699).
Pesce salad servers: Made from resin, this set is available in amber (pictured), white or green they’re a great addition to any lunch or dinner spread. And if you’re looking for a set, they match the salad bowl from the same collection. $17 (was $24.95).
Taika cushion: If you’re looking for an on-trend checkerboard cushion, this tan and white number might be just the thing. 100% cotton, this scatter cushion is has a feathery soft feel too. $39.50 (was $49.95).
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Affordable flat-pack furniture brand focusses on Millennials
Originally from Malaysia, Chris Yap moved to Australia to study in 2012 and with that came a plethora of side…
Originally from Malaysia, Chris Yap moved to Australia to study in 2012 and with that came a plethora of side hustles. While studying computer science at RMIT, Chris had many jobs on the side including web developing, making sushi(!) and hosting an Airbnb but it was the eBay store that he started with his brother Jake that had the most traction. The duo began by selling electronics (mostly wireless chargers and the like), but decided to diversify into the furniture business after being motivated by their father.
“My father is a furniture manufacturer, and after going too furniture expos with him I found the whole thing very inspiring,” says Chris Yap who moved on from electronics and launched the furniture business Eliving with his brother in 2017. Specialising in flat pack furniture, the business underwent a rebrand recently (it’s now called Lifely) and the brothers decided recently to pursue a much more trend-driven audience.
Sorrento display cabinet, $559
“Lifely is a lot more trend focussed whereas Eliving was about being the cheapest in the market. And with Lifely, because we don’t believe in mark-ups or middlemen, you get modern, high-quality pieces that don’t require a second mortgage to afford,” says Chris who explains that the brand’s core audience is Millennials who are no doubt drawn to the brand’s affordable, yet fun pieces.
Bradley modular sofa, from $987.05Button tv unit, $409
Pivotal to the rebrand has been understanding the importance of branding and digital marketing – it’s been a steep learning curve for the brothers. “When we first launched, we had no idea what we were doing but we’ve learnt about branding, digital marketing and building a database and since that it’s been going really well,” says Chris.
Arch bedhead, from $299
It’s going very well indeed with the business experiencing the ‘COVID effect’ where its revenue grew by 300 per cent during the pandemic; a trajectory that has continued. “For the first three years our revenue increased greatly, and it is continuing in that direction,” says Chris who sells the products through the Lifely website directly as well as through several other online marketplaces including eBay, Catch, Mydeal and Temple & Webster.
Sorrento mirror, $399
And in great news for consumers, Lifely has a large stock holding in Victoria’s Laverton which means that customers don’t have to battle with long lead times. It also means that Victorian customers get to enjoy same day delivery (if ordered before midday) and shipping times to Australia’s other capital cities are relatively short too. In another bonus for the consumer, shipping is free to most Australian metro areas.
Phoebe armchair, $494.95
Lifely also donates one per cent of profits towards Habitats for Humanity Australia to support building better lives in vulnerable communities across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. The brand has also partnered with Vinnies to donate furniture to people affected by the bushfires and floods last summer.
“Giving back is important too. But when you consider that we started with one humble first container and one sales platform, we’re really proud of our growth.”
The Lifely Deep Dream mattress, from $356, was awarded the best mattress under $500 by Bed Buyer.
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iRobot have launched the Roomba Combo, the world’s most advanced 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop, and to make your Christmas, we have one to give away!
The new iRobot Roomba Combo mops and vacuums at the same time and goes between hard floors and rugs with ease
Designed for busy households with a mixture of carpets, rugs and hard floors (that’s me!), and those who want a robot vacuum that can also mop (tick!), the Roomba Combo j7+ stands out from other 2-in-1 robots by vacuuming and mopping in a single cleaning job, saving time while keeping floors fresh and clean.
I’ve been trying one out at our place and, while my previous Roomba vacuum and mop separates already had a very special place in my heart, this 2-in-1, well this is next level! You know I love efficiency and this is just so damn easy. Set and forget (via your phone), my friends!
The Roomba Combo j7+ has a fully retractable mop pad that lifts itself to the top of the robot when it encounters carpet and rugs – the first 2-in-1 of its kind – preventing wet carpet messes. The app you use with it on your phone, iRobot OS 5.0, introduces new features and digital experiences – offering even more thoughtful updates for pet owners, busy families and those looking for more control over how they clean. It will even detect and avoid dog poo (because we’ve all heard the stories!). I’m not even joking.
The compact Clean BaseNo need to empty the bin as the bag collects for you
The world’s most advanced robot vacuum and mop
“Until today, many 2-in-1 robot vacuums and mops delivered a poor user experience either because they required separate, time-consuming cleaning jobs or created more mess by not fully lifting the mopping pad high enough to avoid carpet and rugs. The Roomba Combo j7+ uniquely solves both of these challenges,” said Keith Hartsfield, chief product officer at iRobot. “And thanks to iRobot OS, your Roomba Combo j7+ will get smarter over time because it will automatically download new capabilities whenever we release them. So, when new enhancements are developed, your robot gets them too, like magic.” And there I was thinking the Elf and Santa were the only ones bringing magic this festive season!
A video speaks a thousand words!
Unlike other 2-in-1s, the Roomba Combo j7+ vacuums rugs and carpets first and then vacuums and mops hard floors concurrently, saving users time by cleaning the area in a single job. This appeals to me hugely as I like to put the robots on while I’m out at meetings or school pickup, and knowing I’ll come home to a floor that is vacuumed and mopped without having to think about it again, is amazing!
Using advanced sensors, the robot is able to detect various floor types. When the Roomba Combo j7+ approaches carpet and rugs, its fully retractable mop arms lift the wet pad to the top of the robot – in a similar way that a convertible raises its roof – preventing wet messes. No other robot combo on the market does this.
The mop in action
Thanks to iRobot OS and the robot’s PrecisionVision Navigation system, you don’t have to worry about cleaning up before the cleaning begins, something that I know makes certain people think it’s not worth the effort. The Roomba Combo j7+ recognises more than 80 common objects, which enables it to clean more specific places on command, like around kitty litter boxes, toilet bowls, dishwashers and more. It also allows the robot to detect and avoid floor hazards like cords, clothes, shoes, socks, backpacks, pet bowls, pet toys, and solid pet waste.
To make cleaning even easier, pair the robot with your voice assistant and simply tell it to clean specific rooms or by specific objects in your home, and it does what you ask instantly. I’ll definitely be connecting mine to Google, like everything else in my house, much to the kids’ delight!
The Roomba Combo j7+ understands approximately 600 voice commands, more than any other 2-in-1. Using the app, you can set up cleaning jobs, choosing which rooms should be vacuumed and mopped or vacuumed only, and adjusting the amount of cleaning solution you want the mop to dispense.
The first truly hands-free vacuum and mop robot
Using the Roomba Combo j7+ is simple. The robot senses when a mop pad is attached and the mopping solution tank is full – and then goes into mopping mode automatically. Other 2-in-1s have a mop that you must manually attach yourself after the vacuuming is done, adding extra work and time. With the Roomba Combo j7+, the mop arm is already attached and ready to go. For vacuuming, it also comes with the Clean Base® Automatic Dirt Disposal system so you can forget about vacuuming for months at a time. The Clean Base allows the Roomba Combo j7+ to empty the dirt and debris it collects into an enclosed bag that doesn’t need to be replaced for up to 60 days. This was already a favourite feature of mine on my existing Roomba vacuum.
This Clean Base has a slicker design than its predecessor. It’s more compact and I love this leather look tab to open the dust bag compartment
And if you’re thinking all this is a little too clever, don’t worry because iRobot products and iRobot OS are backed by the company’s commitment to customer privacy and data security. iRobot treats customer data with the highest standards of privacy protection, and to that end, has obtained the globally recognised TRUSTe Certified Privacy Seal.
iRobot is distributed by IXL Home, a recognised leader in the premium home appliance industry, within Australia & New Zealand. iRobot is a global consumer robot company that designs and builds thoughtful robots and intelligent home innovations that make life better. iRobot introduced the first Roomba robot vacuum in 2002. Today, iRobot is a global enterprise that has sold millions of robots worldwide.
With its power to influence design trends for the upcoming year, the Pantone Colour of the Year is always a hotly anticipated event. The colour for next year has been announced and it’s Viva Magenta which is a rich, luxurious shade that falls somewhere between red and pink and between warm and cool. “Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative,” says Pantone.
Descended from the red family, inspired by the red of cochineal (one of the most precious natural dyes), the hue vibrates with vim and vigour and is designed to reconnect us with the natural world. Here are a few ways to introduce it to your home.
Dulux Scarlet Ribbons: This is a great place to start if you’re keen to use a Viva Magenta inspired hue on your walls. A striking and vibrant deeper pink brimming with vitality, it’s perfect for interior and exterior accents and it looks particularly fabulous on the front door below.
Adairs Aries hot pink cushion: Made from a beautiful woven cotton fabric, this cushion features fun tassels, making it the perfect subtle statement piece in any room. $59.99.
Greenhouse Interiors Pink Stairs print: Shot by the talented interiors photographer Armelle Habib, this exquisite, textural print is a portal to another land. $835.
Tuiss Blinds Online: Unexpected and super fun, these made to measure curtains (in the Clarissa Hulse Watercolour Velvet Sunset fabric) really bring this beautiful shade to life. From $139.
Jacob Little ridged vase in magenta: Elegant and sculptural, this ceramic vase is finished in a striking magenta hued reactive glaze. It looks even better when paired with foliage. $16.
Pantone Colour of the Year 2022: Very Peri
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There’s no doubt about it; installing or replacing your floors, is one of the major expenses of any reno or build. But it can also be the biggest gamechanger for your interior! So when the chance for a genuine 20% saving is on offer, and from one of Australia’s most beautiful flooring providers, Kustom Timber, it’s a good idea to jump on it!
From forest to floor, Kustom Timber deliver an end to end turnkey service – a company first for engineered hardwood timber flooring specialists in Australia. Treading the industry boards (pardon the pun!) since 2013, they’re involved in all facets of the supply, install and preservation of responsibly sourced, FSC certified, premium European Oak for residential, commercial and hospitality projects.
While the sale, on until 31 December 2022, applies to supply only, the company can help you with every aspect of design, install and maintenance too.
“We choose the trees; we source the timber; we customise the product with a natural spectrum of in-house stains plus custom finishes; and with our specialist team, install flooring (including stairs) across the country,” says co-founder Mark Chaz. “Our job isn’t complete until our customers are expertly briefed on the maintenance and aftercare of our finished results.”
Based in Melbourne with showrooms in South Yarra, Mornington and now Geelong, co-founders Mark Chaz and Tristan Tiller bring over 35 years of combined industry expertise to the company. Mark gained his hands-on expertise in the family business installing, polishing and sanding floors, whilst Tristan, who oversees product acquisition – from sourcing through to production and delivery – comes from a buying background for Australia’s largest retail businesses. Forging relationships with major timber suppliers throughout Europe has enabled the company to develop Australia’s highest quality timber flooring range.
Kustom Timber offers five distinct collections with more than 30 unique shades and finishes. Unlike their competitors, these customised elements are devised in-house to maintain optimum consistency between colour batches and surface patinas with the option to create bespoke tones if requested.
Habitatis the largest, comprising premium European Oak available in four widths with shades ranging from beach house blondes to saturated mocha browns, while Como offers extra-long and wide floorboards for larger spaces. Peninsula speaks to the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula’s shores with a refined selection of timber washes, textures and knots articulating European Oak. Resonating with abundant pigment depth, Immerse features the most textural woodgrains. Finally, Atelier is an Italian timber range available in four pre-finished colours, as well as a natural raw clean grade timber which can be stained to set the tone, perfect for that custom project.
“The high expectations we place upon ourselves guarantee low maintenance for the end user,” adds Mark. “Every board is heat and moisture treated by our dedicated team and is scratch tested to ensure we use the perfect coating weight to guarantee peak performance prior to installing. Our honed polishing techniques add the finishing touch plus by utilising eco-conscious solutions, which enhance durability without toxic fumes, our customers can settle back in sooner.”
Designed specifically to weather Australia’s dry conditions, Kustom Timber floors retain their original foundation with minimal seasonal expansion and contraction thanks to the stability of their multi-layer plywood construction engineering and can be laid in myriad patterns. They range from plank, herringbone and chevron styles to more elaborate arrangements including square-on-square and basketweave motifs, amongst others.
Mark says unlike competitors, who only offer a 2mm surface, all Kustom Timber’s engineered boards are designed to have a 4mm veneer surface. “This gives our customers the same depth of timber above the joint as a solid timber board and allows floors to be refinished and restored the same way whilst using substantially less wood and reducing costs. For this reason, we can proudly offer a 25-year structural guarantee and a 10-year installation warranty for our flooring installations.”
You want to maintain your investment and keep it looking its best, so completing their suite of services, Kustom Timber also offer extensive care and maintenance packages – from professional cleaning and nourishing treatments to sanding, polishing and refining existing floors (including outdoor decking). They are also experienced in timber restoration including staircases, floors and wall panelling.
And they’re not just for Melbourne homeowners. Having established their reputation amongst Victoria’s boutique builders, architects and interior designers, in recent years Kustom Timber has solidified its offering to other states, particularly along the East Coast and abroad. Its internal team provides site measure and installation services as far north as Brisbane. Certified contractors collaborate with them for locations further afield unless clients specifically request their services.
Extensive remote support is readily available for those requiring services outside Victoria, including virtual showroom tours. Electronic brochures plus product samples with specific stains and finishes can be ordered online.
They strive to not simply to create products, but to comprehend the person who is going to use them. Sales staff with design-focused backgrounds have a thorough knowledge of the collections (timber species and colour ranges, plus oil and lacquer finishes that best compliment specific timbers) and can address installation queries through to maintenance advice.
Our Christmas Gift Guide is now live and, as well as it being chock full of stylish options for your friends who love their homes (and yourself, naturally!), there’s so much more that makes it great!
On page 2 of the guide, you’ll find an amazing competition to enter for your chance to win a $500 giftcard from Fenton & Fenton. Whether you want to spend it on gifts, amazing Christmas decor or some statement homewares, the choice will be yours!
And last but not least, many of the brands featured are offering you an exclusive discount code, with savings of up to 25%, even after the Black Friday sales are over!
There’s homewares, art, fashion, candle, bath and body, jewellery and much much more!
The Cotton On empire has expanded over the years with brand offshoot Typo home to the brand’s homewares offerings. Bold, fun and affordable, what’s not to love?
Mystic minded vase: Combining organic shapes with a speckled, off-white finish, this sculptural piece looks fabulous with or without blooms. $39.99.
Candle sticks (2pk): Available in pink, black and yellow, these fun, on-trend candles have a burn time of eight hours. $19.99.
Floor cushion: Available in a variety of prints, these floor cushions are perfect for kids’ play rooms or for when you find yourself with extra guests. $39.99.
Double dip bowl: Available in eleven bright colours, this stoneware bowl has a cute detachable dip bowl that hangs on its lip. $29.99.
Short tumbler set: We love the timeless design and pattern on this pair of glass tumblers. $14.99.
Stacks On candle: Colour blocking in candle form! This one is too fabulous to burn. $39.99.
Shape Shifter planter: Combining cobalt blue with speckled lavender stripes, this bold stoneware planter would make a lovely addition to a coffee table or shelf. $29.99.
Glassy drink bottle: Smooth outside and ribbed inside, these chic glass bottles are available in pink, green and clear iterations. $24.99 each.
See It Through glass vase: Typo’s take on the coloured glass trend. This statement piece combines clear glass with blue, grey or pale pink inside. $29.99.
Ten things we’re loving at Freedom for every budget
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I’ve known of Art Hide since my very earliest days of blogging as both our businesses started around the same time. What Art Hide did, and continue to do, to change the way we look at cowhide rugs is so innovative, creative and stylish, it’s no surprise they’re still going strong (now both here and in the United States). And excitingly, the time has come for their annual big sale where you can save hundreds (even thousands) of dollars!
The Hornet Desert
I’ve rounded up my favourites here. Think you know cow hide rugs? Think again! Until 4 December 2022, you can save 20% off everything with free, guaranteed pre-Christmas delivery and, for the first time ever this year, they’re also throwing in a free premium rug pad. Amazing!
Add a circle to your room with the Trilogia Circulo in midnight blue
Whether you’re looking for something neutral in greys, whites and blacks (and we definitely count gold as a neutral around here too!), a showstopper in vibrant jewel tones of green and blue or an altogether more feminine piece with pinks and peaches, you’ll be amazed at the range. And with everything customisable to shape, size, pattern and colour, the options really are endless. You’ll also struggle to find a rug material more hardwearing than cow hide so when we call these modern heirlooms, it’s really no exaggeration. These are pieces you and your family will have for years to come.
The Trellis rug in pink proves cowhide can be soft and feminine too
The business is run by sisters Kura Perkins and Bree Hay-Hendry, creating originally designed and ethically sourced leather products. Art Hide is born out of a spirit of adventure, a love of people and a vision for what brings beauty to an environment. The duo’s background in textile design, business and PR, combined with the traditional skills of their meticulous leather-craft team and an array of cutting edge technologies, have seen them create thousands of timeless everyday masterpieces for hundreds of clients.
We think a touch of gold is always a good thing: Curvo gray and gold rug
Art Hide’s premium quality cowhide is sourced as a by-product of the meat industry from regulated tanneries, where methods involved in tanning and dyeing are always safe for workers and are non pollutant.
Linaje in grey, black and gold
A state of the art machine is used to laser burn intricate patterns into some of the rugs, while ’tiles’ of hide are stitched together with commercial grade nylon thread. All rugs feature a branded ribbon edge finish.
Green should always be seen with the Optico rug in Forest Green
Nervous about investing in an heirloom Art Hide rug without seeing it in person? Request one of their $5 Box of Feels be sent to you so you can see the colour and quality for yourself. They even pay for shipping to you and back, when you’re done.
Still struggling to visualise the whole rug in the context of your room? They’ve got you covered! Art Hide also offer free Room Service 3D renders where you upload a photo of your room and send it to them, with the rugs you’re interested in and any other information. They then send you back incredibly realistic renders of how the rug would look in your home.
The super versatile and neutral Olio rug in grey
With environmental and ethical concerns at the top of many of our minds these days, as we move away from fast and disposable homewares (and fashion) towards things that are more custom, unique and handmade, buying less but better things really is something we should aspire to.
The glamorous and sleek Estrella rug in black
Art Hide offer a 14-day no questions asked money back guarantee on all items which aren’t custom or on sale, plus free shipping on all orders.
The La Quinta natural grey circulo will have a place in your home for years to come
The popular geometric look of Angulo in green
This sort of Art Hide sale doesn’t happen often, so if you’ve been thinking about investing for your home or office, there’s never been a better time. I might just jump on it myself! Payment plans are also available for those who need them. Simply contact the team for more information.
Sale runs from 4 November to 4 December 2022 with 20% off all rugs, a free premium rug pad with every rug and free, guaranteed pre-Christmas delivery, Australia wide.
Amidst all the focus on Christmas food and decor it can be easy to overlook the power of scent in setting a festive tone. We’ve done the work and rounded up our favourite Christmas scents based on good looks and fabulous smells.
Ecoya Christmas: Strawberry Spritz Madison Candle: Created by Australian candle Ecoya, this limited edition scent has a very summery feel. It combines spritzy pink grapefruit, pineapple, strawberry, passionfruit, guava and malt. $46.95.
Diptyque limited edition Neige candle: Inspired by snow, this candle’s stylish midnight blue wax is scented with white musk and heliotrope. Its glass vessel is adorned with white, gold and silver stars that glow in the dark. A golden metal lid protects the wax. $66.
Arty Bub Christmas tree candle: Available in green, red and white, we love this candle’s elegant shape. Decidedly Aussie, these candles are scented with an Australian Christmas bush scent. $34.99 each.
Trudon Felice Christmas 2022 Classic Candle: While this candle smells gorgeous (think citrus, Christmas spice and fruity notes), it’s the gorgeous vessel that caught our eye. The pretty glass jar is emblazoned with a shining star, champagne bottle, sparkling ring and musical notes too. $159.
Peppermint Grove Australia Christmas Pine Large Soy Candle: Housed in a lovely faceted green glass jar, this candle combines spearmint and bergamot with eucalyptus, sage, caramel, pine, rosemary vanilla, patchouli and more. It’s quite the festive mix! $44.95.
Oh It’s Perfect Snowflake Glass Vessel Candle: This one features a sweet and fresh aroma of flowers, coconut and caramel. We love its octagon shape, coloured glass and retro-inspired label. $65.95.
Circa Pine & Snow Gum candle: Another Aussie take on Christmas, this candle features the unmistakable scent of fir balsam, pine resin and tangy red fruits mingled with a sprig of minty Australian eucalyptus. $46.95.
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