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Sustainable kitchen features being chosen by 95% of renovators

Sustainability has shaped recent consumer trends, and house renovation is no exception. An impressive 95% of respondents in a 2023 Houzz study chose to embrace sustainable features when revamping their kitchen, the room which remains the most expensive when renovating. That said, their reasons were more about saving money than saving the earth.

Clearly Renovations

Compared to other areas in the house, homeowners often create major changes to the kitchen, with median spending on renovations increasing steadily since 2019 ($15,000) to $20,000 in 2021.

“Homeowners are gravitating towards sustainable choices during kitchen renovations, and it is interesting to see the intersection of economic solutions and environmental concerns. The most frequent reason behind choosing sustainable options is long-run cost effectiveness, with environmental-friendliness as a secondary consideration,” said Marine Sargsyan, Houzz staff economist.

NOTO Architects

The survey of more than 450 respondents found that popular choices include LED bulbs (71%), energy-efficient appliances (63%), and water-efficient fixtures (49%). More than two in five homeowners also opt for a timeless design as a sustainable choice during renovations (45%).

While the alleged health dangers of engineered stone are well reported in the press at the moment, the study also reveals that engineered quartz is still the most popular benchtop material (36%) followed by laminate and granite.

Chris Snook

Additional insights from the 2023 Houzz Australia Kitchen Trends Study:

Contemporary leads the way: Contemporary is the top style choice for renovated kitchens in 2023, followed closely by modern.

Popular pantries: 53% of kitchen updaters are installing pantry cabinets, and 27% making space for a walk-in pantry.

Classic colours: white is the most popular colour for walls, cabinets, benchtops and splashbacks.

Electronic upgrades: Renovating homeowners incorporate technology into their kitchen appliances with Wi-Fi connectivity, smartphone/tablet controls, and colour touchscreen displays.

Kitchen usage is varied: As well as cooking, homeowners also bake, eat, entertain, socialise and work in the kitchen.

Chris Snook

The 2023 Houzz Australia Kitchen Trends Study is a report of homeowners who are in the midst of, are planning or recently completed a kitchen renovation. The online survey was fielded to Houzz Australia users in November-to-December 2022. Spend data is taken from the Houzz & Home Survey, sent to registered users of Houzz Australia and fielded March-to-April 2022.

Read the full report

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Plunge pools: everything you need to know about small pools

Plunge pool

There’s no denying that COVID has had a very significant impact on the way we live and what we expect from our homes. We’ve reported a lot on the increasing importance of the backyard post-lockdown, and a pool is the icing on cake for many Australians. But with reduced block sizes our backyards are shrinking, which explains the increased popularity of the plunge pool.

Blue Haven Pool
This plunge pool is nestled inside a small backyard in Sydney’s Woolooware
Blue Haven pool

“There’s no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic was tough for everyone, and because Australians love the great outdoors, it was not surprising that many families wanted to transform their homes to feel like a holiday all year long,” says Blue Haven Pools and Spas CEO Remonda Martinez who has seen a massive increase in enquiries since the pandemic – particularly for plunge pools.

Plunge pool vs traditional
Just because a plunge pool is smaller than its full-size counterpart doesn’t mean it isn’t as versatile or luxurious. “You can use a plunge pool to dip in and relax after a long day or add swim jets if you want to do laps but don’t have room in your yard,” says Remonda.

A plunge pool can also serve as a focal point or fabulous backyard feature with the money you save on size (they are cheaper than larger, traditional pools) freeing up funds to allocate to decorative touches. “Smaller pools are more affordable to dress up with finer finishes like fully tiled interiors, heating and in-floor cleaning systems,” says Remonda. 

Plunge pool
This courtyard 6m x 3m plunge pool, in Sydney’s Bondi Junction, is fully tiled with with gas heating, travertine surrounds and blue mode lighting.

Is a small pool worth it?
While plunge pools are more affordable than traditional pools they are still very much a luxury item which makes many people, understandably, question whether a small pool is worth the investment. “They are definitely worth it! Since a small pool costs less to landscape with less fencing, paving and surrounding costs, you can spend more on the pool and make it an incredible feature piece,” says Remonda.

Popular for sloping blocks, the glass window panel is a fabulous example of how a small pool can be elevated, through smart design, to become a true garden feature. And when you consider the way a pool looks when the sun sets (think dazzling pool lights, and moving water), a plunge pool really does have the power to create an incredible night vibe.

Blue Haven pool
This 6m x 4m plunge pool, in Sydney’s Cronulla, includes a tiled spa

Is a smaller pool easier to maintain?
Smaller pools are generally easier to maintain when compared to larger pools. However, it’s important to note that the ease of maintenance also depends on factors such as the type of pool, its materials, and the location. “It’s also worth noting that smaller pools are also cheaper and faster to heat. There’s nothing better than a cool pool all summer and a hot spa for winter and, with a plunge pool, it’s totally possible!”

This 3.4m x 3.7m plunge pool makes for a cosy backyard retreat

What size backyard do you need?
With plunge pools starting at just 4 metres wide, it goes without saying that they will work in even the smallest backyard. To give you an idea as to whether a plunge pool will work in your backyard you need to allow for at least a metre from the yard’s boundaries to the edge of the pool’s water. You also need to allow for around a 1.5 metre distance from any dwelling or structures. 

“An underground easement or sewer line may also restrict the pool size but the beauty of a custom-designed concrete pool is that it can cater for all types of restrictions effortlessly,” says Remonda.

Plunge pool
This 4m x 3m fully tiled plunge pool, in Sydney’s Caringbah, features a handrail and was designed for an older couple and their physiotherapy needs.

How much does a plunge pool cost?
Adding a swimming pool to the backyard is a construction process so pricing is site specific but Remonda explains that a designer concrete plunge pool starts from around $35,000 on a standard block. If your backyard has restricted access, sandy or loose soil conditions, a sloping block, retaining walls or you are building over or adjacent to a sewer line, the pool will cost more.

“My suggestion is always to assess the site costs first and then see how much is left in the budget to spend on the finishes such as fully tiled luxe interiors, mineral water, spa seats, mini jets, heating and lighting.”

For more on Blue Haven Pools & Spas

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The Best of Houzz 2023: Australia’s most popular home designs

The annual Best of Houzz award winners are in for another year recognising the platform’s most talented renovation and design professionals. Voted for by the Houzz community, the annual people’s choice award highlights the designers with the most popular designs and highest ratings. It recognises just 3% of the more than 3 million home professionals and interior and architectural photographers on the Houzz platform. 

LNX Constructions. Photo: Anthony Richardson
Urban Creative Studio’s open plan living and kitchen design was recognised in the awards. Photo: Anthony Richardson

“We are thrilled to highlight the incredibly talented and customer-driven pros from the Houzz community through the Best of Houzz awards. The Best of Houzz awards provide a distinctive mark of credibility for homeowners looking for pros on Houzz. We congratulate all the winners for everything they’ve accomplished in 2022 and look forward to seeing their work and positive reviews in the year ahead,” says Andrew Small, managing director for industry solutions for Houzz.

This home office by Denardi
This beautiful concealed home office by Demardi was another winner in the awards.

The Best of Houzz is awarded annually in three categories – Design, Customer Service and Photography. Design awards honour those whose work was the most popular among the Houzz community while the Customer Service ones are based on several factors including a professional’s overall rating on Houzz and client reviews for projects completed in 2022. Photography badges are awarded to architecture and interior design photographers whose images were the most popular on the platform.

From a modern exterior with layers of mixed materials and finishes by Lindon Homes to a contemporary bathroom with a double walk-in shower by Build Theory, there is plenty of design inspo to be gleaned from the winners list.

Lindon Homes
The exterior of this abode, by Lindon Homes was recognised in the awards.
Design Build by Theory
Build Theory’s popular bathroom design

Also recognised was FURNISHD’s bright living space (featuring earthy tones and contrasting textures), a clever home office by Demardi and an outdoor terrace with fireplace and seating area by Swell Homes.

FURNISHD’s very inviting living space. Photo: Dylan James Photography

Urban Creative Studio’s open-plan kitchen and dining area was also acknowledged, as well as a spacious and light-filled laundry room by Tennille Joy Interiors and a modern staircase with a cute nook for the family dog by Rebecca Naughtin Architect.

Rebecca Naughtin Architect's stair design was recognised. Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Rebecca Naughtin Architect’s stair design was recognised too. Photography: Tatjana Plitt

Winners have been announced globally and they can now display a ‘Best of Houzz 2023’ badge on their profiles which helps homeowners identify popular and top-rated home professionals on Houzz locally and around the world. Houzz Pro members can also add the ‘Best of Houzz’ standout tag to their profile, which will appear in their directory listing and improve credibility too.

Swell Homes. Photography: DMax
Swell Homes’ lovely outdoor terrace with fireplace. Photography: DMax
Tennille Joy Interiors
Laundry by Tennille Joy Interiors. Photo: Rachel Winston Photography

Check out all the winners

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2023 outdoor trends: Mediterranean is the new Hamptons

The classic white-washed Hamptons style has long been Aussies’ go-to when building a dream house. This year, however, creative director and founder of Landart, Matt Leacy, predicts that the soft coastal aesthetic of the Mediterranean style will soon overtake it.

“One design influence that’s here to stay is Mediterranean – I would say it is the new Hamptons. While a Mediterranean influence is not new as such, it does continue to grow in popularity globally – and it’s very well suited to the Australian climate and way of life,” Matt said.

“The key is to draw inspiration from the style and to then ensure this marries well with the interiors of properties as well as existing external architecture. The design aesthetic has to work as a whole.”

What does the Mediterranean influence look like in 2023? 

Materials

Matt says to think of natural materials like timber and stone, offset by soft white renders and large sweeping curves around pools and garden beds. Aussies will be keen on a more bespoke, custom-built approach to space with hardwood furniture and linen fabrics. It also incorporates oversized planters, warm mood lighting, multipurpose seating, edible gardens, recycled materials, art pieces/sculptures and cabanas. 

“Natural materials like recycled timber, tea tree sticks, overhead shade structures, floorboards and natural stone all layered with a bit of interest and texture like crazy paving, cobbles and random shape walling that is beautifully offset by soft white renders are what we will see more of this year,” said Matt.

Colour

Colour-wise, the trend leans towards natural, earthy colours, the blues and greens – including strong emerald green. A white-based palette will also become a popular choice that works well as a base to layer natural products such as stone and timber.

Rooftop gardens

Rooftop gardens remain very popular in outdoor spaces. Done right, they’re a beautiful design feature in a garden and such a smart use of space that also has practicalities in terms of water capture and insulation for homes. 

Watering will also be back on the agenda in 2023 after what was a very wet year. La Nina is set to end around the end of February – and Australia is already experiencing a drier start to the year. “All the hand watering habits need to start re-emerging – as we’re finding gardens are drying out very quickly even at the moment when we are still getting some good rainfall. Alternatively, Aussies may opt for some amazing new technology to help keep gardens hydrated when the skies will no longer do it for them. The technology looks at the forecast and automatically irrigates the garden when it is predicted as a non-rainy day. The system can be controlled from a phone – making garden care a much simpler experience.”

Pools

Pools also remain popular, with recent reports revealing they add significant value to properties*. “Pools and outdoor kitchens are quintessentially Australian and two key elements of outdoor spaces that are not so much trend-driven but a prerequisite for most of our design briefs,” said Matt.

The popularity of the plunge pool will be one of the biggest trends in pools in 2023. Along with curves. “We’ll still be seeing more traditional rectangular shapes, and they will always have a place in our landscapes as the shape of the pool is driven by the look and feel that suits the property and the client.” 

When looking at trends for inspiration, homeowners can be influenced, but should not be entirely led by, fashion. “No design style or colour choice should be adopted just because it’s on-trend. It’s important to consider how the look of the moment works within a space and not just blindly follow trends.

“Trends inevitably date. If you can, bringing in a landscape designer to help maximise space, place all the important elements and work on a design style and plants that will thrive in your environment, is a fantastic investment,” Matt says.

For more on Landart

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Freedom open new Hobart store & there’s fun & offers all weekend!

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.

Book the Tablescape workshop | Book the flower arranging workshop

Michelle Crawford
Rebecca Williams

Freedom Hobart | 174 Elizabeth Street | Hobart

*Offer available from 23-26 February 2023.

**Offer available to customers who spend $50 or more. While stocks last. 

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Home renovation features unique kitchen for family of foodies

Kitchen
Kitchen

Located in the inner north Melbourne suburb of Brunswick East, this double-fronted weatherboard house is home to a family of four who engaged Dan Gayfer Design to renovate it in a stylish yet understated way.

“The design brief was predominantly concerned with curating an arrangement of spaces and elements that reflected a distinct family lifestyle. As opposed to packing as much as possible into the space available, importance was placed upon facilitating the congregation of family and friends,” says Dan. 

Kitchen and dining
Kitchen and dining

The design focuses on this coming together of people in a comfortable and interactive manner, encouraging both verbal interaction and activities between one another such as games, drawing and cooking. And interestingly, reflecting the idea that big doesn’t always mean better, the family decided against adding a second-story addition. “Refreshingly, the owners were not concerned about spaces that were not relevant to their day-to-day lifestyle such as a TV room, home office, WIR or ensuite; another level simply wasn’t required nor warranted,” says Dan.

Bathroom

A key challenge of the project for Dan, and his colleagues, was ensuring that the renovation wasn’t ‘over-designed’ as the family desired a functional yet simple solution. And although requiring significant refurbishment, the existing front four rooms of the home were retained whilst a fifth room (a bathroom) was also left in its original location. The remaining structure of the building was then removed leaving significant area to play with. “In like situations, one is often inclined to pack everything they can into such a generous area – including a second storey. In response, the addition is single-storied and modest in size with a distinct sloping roof and generous verandah area at the rear; this humble structure embodies the characteristics of mid-century Australian bungalows,” says Dan.

Dining
Dining

Central to the design is the kitchen which is genuinely multi-purpose and acts as a family room, living room and dining counter. It’s a space where family and friends can gather at any time of the day, even outside mealtimes, but the design also reflects the habits of the home’s occupants who are bona fide foodies. “That this family’s lifestyle is so kitchen-centric is no surprise, they are passionate cooks who are happy to cook every meal of the day if time permits,” says Dan.

Kitchen
Kitchen

The kitchen cabinetry was finished in cost-effective laminate – a mix of Laminex ‘Raw Birchply’ and ‘French Cream’ which are integral in giving the home that soft Scandinavian inspired feel. “The faux timber colour, ‘Raw Birchply’, is realistic and is difficult to distinguish from real timber veneer. As such, it could somewhat be viewed as a bargain considering the cost of real timber veneer,” says Dan. In contrast, given their enthusiasm for cooking, the home’s owners splurged on the kitchen’s appliances; a commercial grade rangehood, commercial sized fridge/freezer and heavy-duty double sink with drainer round out the mix.

Kitchen
Kitchen

The kitchen island is an interesting design that promotes conversation – it’s more of a communal table and features a ceramic tile surface, steel edging and custom steel legs. “We are particularly pleased with the outcome for the kitchen, pantry and communal table. The kitchen design reflects not only how the family prepare, cook and serve food but also its tendency to gather and interact during these times.”

Backyard
Backyard

Photography: Dean Bradley

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A hotel suite named after you? Neale Whitaker can now claim this!

Television personality and design aficionado Neale Whitaker, has had a hotel room named after him as part of a styling collaboration. The project came about “by accident” after several years of being allocated to the same room at Melbourne’s Laneways by Ovolo, leading to it being known unofficially as his personal suite.

“It became a bit of a standing joke,” Neale says of his connection to the room, formerly known as 303.

Even this artwork, by Flynn Cowan, features Neale’s face!

“The reason I love this room is because of its corner position, which has amazing windows looking to the most gorgeous tree and old stuccoed wall outside, leading through to views of the rooftops and towers of the CBD,” Neale said.

Working alongside Australian interior design studio Luchetti Krelle, Neale incorporated some of his favourite pieces into the 80s Memphis-inspired Neale Whitaker Suite. “I sourced a whole load of styling items and a few knick-knacks to put into the room, artwork as well, fitting with Luchetti Krelle’s design narrative.”

Sculptural lamp by Sarah Nedovic Gaunt

Guests who reserve the suite can expect to stay amongst a collection of original art, limited edition objects and soft furnishings – each hand selected by Neale – as well as a 100-song Spotify playlist of his favourite tracks. “These are all the things that are incredibly important to me,” Neale says, adding that he wanted to showcase a cross section of Australian artists when curating the room. “There are three big ticket items: a large painting by artist Nunzio Miano, a Sarah Nedovic Gaunt lamp and a portrait by Flynn Cowan.”

Nunzio Miano painting

Nunzio Miano is a Melbourne-based artist whose flamboyant and generous use of colour brings high-octane energy to the scheme. The lamp by Sarah Nedovic Gaunt was the last of the highly sought-after ‘Lady’ collection, similar to a piece which Neale has in his own home. The artwork featuring an illustration of Neale himself, created by former Ovolo staffer Flynn Cowan, leans into Warhol-like themes, using repetition and colour-blocking to bring the room to life.

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New homewares brand Gigi&Tom like jewellery for the home + win!

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
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. 

Gigi and Tom
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. 

Maximalist
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. 

Miami Deco
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
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.

So Cal
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!

Shop GIGI&TOM

Win everything in this picture!

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.

SHOP THE LOOK: Retro inspired occasional armchair in olive | boucle twisted cushion in rust | olio di olivia framed canvas print | citron canvas framed print | rattan side table | wide ribbed ceramic vase | ribbed ceramic vase | Art Deco amber glass candle holder | abstract glass candle holder | orange pillar candle set | lemon ceramic bowl

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How to do a stylish coastal kitchen makeover for just $500!

When British ex-pat Keeley Menz purchased her home an hour south of Perth last year, she loved everything about it except for the kitchen. “It is a beautiful home, but the original kitchen just wasn’t my style as it was too dark and brown. My first instinct was to paint the walls but I felt that if I lifted the kitchen it would make the whole space feel brighter and lighter.”

She set about transforming the space with chalk paint, stick-on stone tiles and new handles. Incredibly, the circa-2008 kitchen has been transformed into a breezy, coastal-inspired space and the whole makeover only set Keeley back $500!

BEFORE
AFTER

Having just spent over $10,000 on moving to Western Australia from the eastern states, Keeley was looking for a cost-effective solution to update the kitchen cupboards, when she came upon Frenchic Paint. “I’ve done a lot of DIY and makeovers in my time, and I’ve painted a kitchen before, but this product was amazing. It didn’t drip at all, and the paint’s self-levelling aspect really works,” says Keeley who, incredibly, worked on the kitchen during the day (with her two-year-old son running around) and at night when light conditions weren’t the best.

BEFORE
AFTER

“Obviously, it would have been better to have done all the painting under natural light, but it wasn’t always possible. I remember being amazed when I woke in the morning because I was sure I’d have to go over the cupboards again but there were no drips or streaks,” says Keeley, who cleaned and lightly sanded the cupboard fronts before applying around three coats of Frenchic’s Dazzle Me. “I did a lot of coats because the cupboards were so dark and I wanted to make sure they were completely white. I’d describe the finish as matte and easy to keep clean,” says Keeley.

AFTER

Paint aside, Keeley used self-adhesive, heat-resistant, waterproof stone tiles from Tic Tac Tiles to update the kitchen’s functional yet dated glass splash back. The real stone tiles have adhesive backing and are easy to install on any clean surface.

The kitchen was put through its paces recently when Keeley’s family arrived from the UK for a long holiday over Christmas; with a full house for six weeks, Keeley says the kitchen withstood the onslaught. “I had my mum, dad, sister, husband and then three toddlers smashing into the cupboards with their toys, but the wear and tear was fine!”

Chalk and mineral paint Frenchic was founded in the UK in 2014, fast gaining a loyal fanbase and a Facebook group of more than half a million DIYers sharing their projects. It has been available in Australia since 2021, through independent stockists and online.

Get a free Frenchic colour chart sent to you

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Stylist Steve Cordony’s stunning Rosedale Farm is on Airbnb!

Hundreds of thousands follow stylish Australian stylist Steve Cordony on Instagram, drooling over his picture perfect country property Rosedale Farm (I’ll admit I’m one of them and I’ve also been lucky enough to visit in person). And now, after years of hard work and renovation by Steve and partner Michael Booth, it can finally be a reality to stay there, as it lists on Airbnb. And it’ll only cost you $25 a night. Say what?!

Steve Cordony in one of Rosedale’s farm stays

Design lovers will have the chance to enjoy the ultimate Easter holiday in style, with an exclusive Airbnb stay at the idyllic estate in Orange, NSW. Steve is inviting residents of Australia to his historic Rosedale Farm property for a four-night stay from Thursday 6 April to Monday 10 April, for just $25 AUD* per night as part of a special promotion.

Dating back to 1877, Rosedale Farm is a restored estate located just seven kilometres from Orange in the central tablelands of New South Wales. A country stay to be remembered, Rosedale Farm’s main homestead features six bedrooms, three bathrooms, a formal dining room, lounge, library and kitchen. The homestead and two farm stays are positioned amongst the estate’s lavish, lushly landscaped gardens. 

Every guest room has been individually designed by Steve in his signature contemporary European style, layered with an Italian farmhouse sensibility, creating a uniquely luxurious accommodation in the heart of the countryside.

As one of Australia’s leading interior and lifestyle stylists, Steve is passionate about design as a means of bringing people together to create memories with loved ones. His renovation journey of Rosedale Farm amassed a significant following, with many Aussies inspired by the impeccable attention to detail, subtle nods to the property’s heritage, and mix of both contemporary and antique furnishings. 

“I created Rosedale Farm with the goal of turning this incredible historic property into a one-of-a-kind destination for guests to connect and create memories in. I love the unique and personalised experiences Airbnb hosts offer their guests, whether it be fresh flowers throughout the home or a bottle of champagne to kick off the celebrations, and Rosedale Farm is filled with special touches. I am thrilled to partner with Airbnb on hosting an unforgettable four-night stay this Easter.”

Over the past two years, many Australians found comfort in exploring their own backyards and discovering the natural beauty found across Australia. Regional bookings now make up almost 30% of nights booked on Airbnb in Australia, and when comparing the second quarter of 2022 with the pre-pandemic second quarter of 2019, regional bookings are up about 60% in Australia. 

With Orange a must-visit NSW destination, this Easter season is the perfect time to explore the region and the many attractions that make it so special including the wine and produce on offer and  support local hosts while injecting much needed tourism dollars to help support small businesses and local economies.

Inside one of the farm stays at Rosedale Farm

Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb’s country manager for Australia and New Zealand, said: “We are excited to partner with Steve to create something truly special at Rosedale Farm and highlight the benefits of rural tourism.”

The unforgettable Steve Cordony four-night Easter country getaway is open for bookings on 27 February at 9am AEDT from airbnb.com.au/stevecordony and can be booked on a first come first serve basis. Set a reminder now!

The two Rosedale farm stays will be available to book ongoing from airbnb.com.au/stevecordony from 27 February, 2023. We anticipate it will cost a lot more than $25 a night! 

*Exclusive of fees including booking and service fees.

Categories
Design Designers DIY Expert Tips Interiors Addict Outdoor & Exteriors

How to choose your outdoor paving pattern: 5 options

Summer means most homeowners will be using their backyards more at the moment. To add more value to your home, you may want to create an outdoor paved area, and you may be surprised how DIY-friendly a project it is!

Four-time Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS) gold medallist and TV personality Jason Hodges, explains the many options in laying patterns and shares his top tips for creating the ultimate paved outdoor area for your home.

Jason suggests to first look at your backyard and make an assessment of the lay of the land. An important consideration when creating a backyard is the addition of colour and texture, as it sets the scene for the entire area. “Consider which paving colour will best compliment your existing space by matching them with roof tiles, guttering, bricks or render,” he advises.

Many homeowners choose pavers as they’re easy to install and make great DIY projects. Pavers allow you to get creative with different patterns producing unique focus points for your backyard without breaking the bank. “For variety, style and impact for your home, the flexibility that pavers provide is hard to beat. With any one paver, you can create four to six different paving pattern styles allowing you to find the right match for your home,” explains Jason.

How to pick your paving pattern

The most important element for those looking to DIY their own paving project is that some areas and paving patterns require half pavers to fill gaps, and this involves cutting. “Some paving patterns will require cuts via the use of a brick saw which can be hired from a local hire shop. While the hiring is easy, the operation of the saw requires caution and all of the required safety gear, so take your time or better still, engage the help of a tradesman,” says Jason.

Hot tip: If you are using pavers that will need to be cut, Jason suggests running a border around all of the pavers so that you don’t end up with little pavers on the edge.

1. Stretcher bond

Stretcher bond is the most common paving pattern as it’s super DIY friendly, requires minimal cutting, and leaves little wastage. A traditional pattern that replicates the classic look of brickwork, stretcher bond can also easily hide imperfections in the laying pattern.

2. Stack bond

Stack bond is an excellent choice when paving feature sections such as entertaining areas and patios, where the finished product sets the atmosphere of the space. Stack bond is a great paving pattern choice for large format pavers and can make smaller layouts appear bigger – a great design hack. This pattern is simple to install; however, it can become fiddly as you must lay each paver down by one corner, making sure that all four corners align for a straight stack look.

3. Herringbone

The herringbone pattern is a savvy design choice and is on the rise of making a stylish comeback. To achieve this look, take a smaller-sized paver and interlock the pavers on a 90-degree or 45-degree angle. Herringbone is an eye-catching pattern that will make a great first impression on any space.

4. Basket weave

The basket weave pattern is a design that adds character and dimension while complementing the existing brick surfaces of your home. When picking a paver to style a basket weave, take a close look at the aggregates (exposed coloured stones in your current brickwork), and choose a paver that is complimentary to the aggregate colours. To create a basket weave pattern, simply lay two rectangular pavers the same way each time, swapping in the direction of every “set” of two pavers, and repeat.

5. Mixing colours

Mixing paver colours is a hot new trend. Pavers of different colours and sizes create a modern paved look and also have the bonus ability to hide stains as the colour varies throughout the pattern, making it a fantastic choice for families. 

Watch Jason show you how it’s done!

Jason Hodges is an ambassador for Adbri, one of Australia’s pioneering construction materials and industrial mineral manufacturing companies.

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Outdoor kitchens: The latest home improvement craze

Mint Design
Mint Design's Williamstown project. Photo by Daniel Corden

Sponsored by Australian Gas Networks

The COVID effect has been felt across all quarters of the home and the outdoors haven’t remained immune (pardon the pun!). In news that will surprise nobody, given the lockdowns that many endured, Australians are currently all about creating sanctuary-style homes that they never want to leave, and an improved backyard is an important piece of the puzzle.

“There has been a huge explosion in landscape design since COVID and the value of the backyard has shot up. People now see it as an extension of the house and the outdoor kitchen is becoming more important with people wanting to entertain at home much more,” says landscape designer, and Mint Design director, Darin Bradbury.

Mint Design’s Williamstown project. Photo by Daniel Corden

And while the outdoor BBQ, bar fridge and sink setup isn’t new, outdoor kitchen design is becoming much more sophisticated as people seek the same finishes outside that they have inside their homes. “People really see the outdoor kitchen as an extension of the house and there has been a real push to outdoor entertaining. People want a great kitchen and pool and everything at their fingertips,” says Darin.

Image: Kastell Kitchens
Williamstown by Mint Design
A Mint design project. Photo by Daniel Corden.

“The standard outdoor kitchen benchtop size is 2.4 metres long and it will typically house a BBQ, bar fridge and sink. I always try to encourage a sink so that you can wash your hands after handling meat,” says Darin who says who recommends space either side of the sink for platters and the like. The designer has also seen an explosion in interest in different cooking options with smokers, chargrill BBQs and pizza ovens currently the most requested items.

Real Dads of Melbourne project. Photo by Sally Goodall.
Darin favours surface mounted minimalist barbecue designs like this one used in the Real Dads of Melbourne’s holiday home. Photo by Sally Goodall.

“You used to have to buy a DIY pizza oven kit that had to be built into the benchtop but now there are plenty of great pre-fab options that sit atop the bench. They are smaller and don’t take up as much space and most of them have a gas starter so the days of sitting around waiting hours for your pizza oven to heat up are over,” says Darin. The latest pizza oven designs allow you to pre-heat with gas and then add wood.

Gas is still the main energy source for outdoor kitchens with the open flame a must for keen barbecuers. “Plumbed in gas and gas bottles are the standard for outdoor BBQs as there’s nothing that heats as fast and is as hot as gas when you’re outdoors in the elements,” says Darin.

Barwon Heads by Mint Design
Mint Design’s Barwon Heads project

When it comes to cost, many people are shocked to discover that an outdoor kitchen will set them back at least $15,000 but it’s largely due to the materials required. Outdoor kitchen materials have to be able to handle variations in temperature and sunlight and said finishes don’t come cheaply. “If your kitchen is fully exposed you need outdoor grade materials but if it’s under a pergola you will have more leeway with materials,” says Darin. 

When it comes to the bench top, Darin says that Dekton surfaces as well as natural stone or concrete are great options. “A ceramic material, Dekton is very pricey, but you can get a stone-look and it’s very durable and easy to clean. Concrete is a great option, but it must be sealed and resealed over time,” says Darin. 

Keilor East by Mint Design
Keilor East project. Photo by Daniel Corden.

Cabinetry materials are another challenge as you need good durability there too; Darin recommends Tricoya MDF which is a laminated timber that doesn’t shrink or swell. “You can paint that material in any colour that you like,” says Darrin. Cement sheeting is still a popular product for cupboard doors but, alternatively, Polytech has a lot of great outdoor cabinetry finishes which give a timber or stone look. “Again though, that product is expensive. If you want a slick, seamless outdoor kitchen the sky is the limit when it comes to what you can spend.”

As TV interior designer James Treble shared with us recently, the majority of his clients prefer cooking on gas. Thinking about gas at the early stages of a build or reno, and making the most of your gas connection, if you plan to have one, is paramount, he says.

“People need to think about if they’re cooking al fresco and having a gas point there too for their outdoor kitchen or built-in barbecue. You might also want a powerpoint there in case you need it for an ignitor, or perhaps an outdoor fridge, and even plumbing for a single sink.”

Can’t afford that outdoor kitchen right now? Allow for the plumbing, gas and powerpoints now at the build stage, so it’s an easier job later when you can.

Installing an outdoor natural gas BBQ? You may be eligible for a rebate!

Australian Gas Networks have rebates available for customers on their networks who are installing or purchasing new outdoor gas appliances. You can get more information here: Rebates | Australian Gas Networks

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Wabi Sabi: How to embrace the art of imperfection at home

Do you ever feel like the perfection of modern interiors and decor can be a little overwhelming? If so, you may find solace in the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi. Wabi Sabi is an art form that releases a need for perfection and encourages us to embrace flaws and seek beauty in the natural aging and decaying of objects and environment. It encourages us to embrace the impermanence of things, and is becoming increasingly popular in the world of interior design.

Photographer: Stephen Kent Johnson. Click for source.

In this article, Jade Bicheno, owner of online store Terra Cruda, explores the concept of Wabi Sabi, and how you can embrace it in your home and your life.

What is Wabi Sabi?

Wabi Sabi is a Japanese lifestyle and design philosophy that celebrates the beauty of raw, unrefined, and imperfect objects. It encourages minimalism and simplicity, emphasising a deep appreciation for the cycle of life. In interior design, Wabi Sabi embraces the use of natural materials and organic shapes in order to create a space that is calming and comforting. This aesthetic is all about accepting the imperfections of life and embracing them as part of the natural beauty of the world.

The history of Wabi Sabi dates back centuries, to the beginning of Zen Buddhism in Japan. The term “wabi” derives from a 16th century poet’s idea that finding joy in simple things was more meaningful than chasing after the material goods of life. This concept eventually evolved into what we now call Wabi Sabi, which celebrates objects and spaces that are naturally aged or have been left untouched.

The philosophy is rooted in appreciation for all things old, worn, and slightly imperfect.

Homewares available online from Terra Cruda

The art of embracing imperfection

From the wrinkles on a loved one’s face to the chipped paint on a wall, there is something comforting about honouring imperfection. Wabi Sabi embraces the beauty in the imperfections of life and nature, celebrating the raw and unrefined elements that make up our everyday lives.

When it comes to our lifestyle and interior design, embracing imperfection is paramount, as it highlights the beauty in things we cannot control. Living with a Wabi Sabi mindset means striving for balance between functionality and nature, and by incorporating imperfection into our homes and lifestyles, we can gain a greater appreciation for life’s little details and cultivate a sense of calm amidst the chaos.

Image: Terra Cruda

How to achieve the Wabi Sabi aesthetic

Through minimalism and thoughtful design, we can create an atmosphere that speaks to the natural chaos of life. This doesn’t mean forgoing aesthetics altogether. On the contrary, Wabi Sabi is all about seeking harmony with what is, rather than seeking refinement.

To achieve this look in interior design and decor, it is important to emphasise minimalism and the natural qualities of each element. Minimalism is key to creating a Wabi Sabi atmosphere, as it allows the focus to be on the natural elements and their unique imperfections, rather than on clutter or items with too much decoration.

When selecting furniture or decor, choose pieces that are made from natural materials such as wood, metal, stone, and clay, as these will bring out the subtle beauty of Wabi Sabi. Look for pieces that have been crafted by hand, as this will allow you to appreciate the little flaws and imperfections that are part of their charm. If you choose pieces with an aged look, it will add to the feeling of authenticity that Wabi Sabi seeks to achieve.

Incorporate plants into your interior design to add a natural touch. Avoid perfection when arranging the furniture: a slightly off-kilter table or chair gives a room character. Incorporate texture by adding woven blankets and throws, leather cushions, and tactile rugs. Keeping colours neutral also helps evoke the serene atmosphere of Wabi Sabi.

Embracing this philosophy requires us to move away from trends and opt for something timeless instead. By combining good quality materials with thoughtful execution and design, you will be able to cultivate an interior environment that is beautiful, serene and sustainable. Wabi Sabi allows us to release judgement and perfection, and instead enjoy living with less and finding beauty in things that often overlooked.

Celebrating the Wabi Sabi concepts of intentional imperfection, at Terra Cruda, Jade sources sustainable products and homewares that stray from refinement. She prefers natural materials, rough textures, blurred lines and broken rules.

Categories
Before & Afters Design Designers House Tours Interiors Addict Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Dated 90’s Port Macquarie home given stylish refresh

AFTER lounge
AFTER lounge

Another fabulous ‘before and after’ by interior designer Kathryn Trentini, this 90’s-era Port Macquarie brick and tile home was given a modern makeover recently with excellent results. The initial project brief was simply to renovate the family bathroom alongside the ensuite and refresh the other areas with paint. However, once the work started, the brief soon expanded to include the living spaces, primary bedroom and other soft furnishings throughout such as window treatments, paint throughout and furniture too.

AFTER living room
AFTER living room
BEFORE living room
BEFORE living room

“I didn’t reconfigure any of the spaces. The modernisation of the property really came through an update of the home’s finishes which was done room by room over a 12-month period,” says Kathryn, who eventually assisted with furniture procurement too.

AFTER main bathroom
AFTER main bathroom
BEFORE main bathroom
BEFORE main bathroom
AFTER main bathroom
AFTER main bathroom

The main bedroom was overhauled with new carpet, a new upholstered bedhead and a fresh fit-out in the walk-in-robe. The nearby ensuite and main bathroom received the makeover treatment too; dated tiles and tapware were replaced with neutral, modern selections. “The owner couldn’t stand the bathrooms and wanted them changed before even moving in. The renovation gathered momentum from there,” says Kathryn.

BEFORE main bedroom
BEFORE main bedroom
AFTER main bedroom
AFTER main bedroom
BEFORE ensuite
BEFORE ensuite
AFTER ensuite
AFTER ensuite

The home’s various lounge and sitting rooms were refreshed also – primarily with wallpaper, paint and fabulous new furniture. “The owners were struggling with what to do with some of the rooms, including the one that I turned into a tech-free sitting room at the front of the house,” says Kathryn.

BEFORE no-tech lounge
BEFORE sitting room
AFTER sitting room
AFTER sitting room. Kathryn persuaded the home’s owners to make this a tech-free space.

After Kathryn thought she had wrapped everything up, she was asked to work on the kitchen as the final piece of the puzzle. “I thought the project was complete, but I was eventually asked to do a part renovation of the kitchen because the owners loved how everything else had turned out,” says Kathryn who worked alongside a cabinet maker to come up with a unique design solution that retained the existing granite benchtops. 

BEFORE kitchen
BEFORE kitchen
AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen

“The central point of the kitchen renovation was to save the granite benchtop as the owners liked it, it would have been expensive to install originally, and we weren’t making layout changes. I came up with a colour scheme that allowed the bench top to sing, rather than look horrid,” says Kathryn. The designer noticed a pink vein in the granite and decided to complement it with bronze handles and a terracotta feature tile. The dark cupboard fronts really helped to modernise the space too.

AFTER kitchen

Kathryn also modified some aspects of the joinery to improve functionality whilst only refreshing those parts that were still in good condition. “Whether existing or new, all cabinets received new fronts, new kick and the new splash really did reinvigorate the existing bench,” says Kathryn.

BEFORE lounge
BEFORE lounge
AFTER lounge
AFTER lounge. A Jardan sofa complements a set of Coco Flip coffee tables in this newly tranquil space.

“It’s a lovely property now. The owners are absolutely stoked with the changes and the outcome so it’s just brilliant. They are so proud of the home – you can really tell.”

Photography: Amanda Prior

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New bathroom & laundry layout elevates coastal home reno

Kitchen
Kitchen

Located in Kincumber, on the NSW Central Coast, this family home was overhauled recently with the team at Danielle Victoria Design Studio at the helm. Home to a family of four with two young girls, the fresh renovation centred around a couple of key areas – the main living space (comprised of the kitchen, living and dining) as well as the laundry and bathroom.

Kitchen
Kitchen

Inspired by coastal tones and the homeowners’ fresh and modern style, the renovation drew on a textured palette with fresh whites, contemporary finishes and VJ panelled walls taking centre stage. “The removal of a wall in the kitchen and living area was a big transformation. We created more kitchen storage than before by creating an island bench, wall cabinetry and designing a full-height double pantry which is essential for a young family,” says Danielle Bonello-Dunsford, principal designer. Light was maximised further within the kitchen by installing a large skylight and brand new French doors.

Kitchen
“Snowy Mountains Half by Dulux features on the walls,” says Danielle.

And while the kitchen is essentially an all-white affair, depth and interest is added through a variety of textured finishes including bespoke shaker-style cabinetry, Kethy oak pull handles, handmade splashback tiles, and Laminex Demi Round Surround panelling which is hugely effective on the front of the kitchen island bench. 

Copper accents also work to elevate the space with ABI Interior brushed copper tapware and complementary bespoke shelving. “The brackets for the open shelves in the kitchen were a little splurge from Domino Brass. They’re a custom brass finish that will patina beautifully over time,” says Danielle.

Not in the original design scope, the family decided to tackle the bathroom after the initial building works identified damp issues. “We planned quickly and ended up gutting the whole bathroom, which actually helped us achieve a much better floorplan flow and a lot of storage upgrades,” says Danielle who is very proud of the way that the new floorplan for the bathroom and laundry came together. The team shifted walls and repositioned doors to create clever storage and improved flow. 

Bathroom
Bathroom
Bathroom
Bathroom

“We opened the bathroom by stealing space from a WC previously accessed from the laundry. The client didn’t like the separate toilet and the small shower, so it was a no brainer. We brought the toilet into the bathroom, created a floor to ceiling cosmetics cupboard and created a shower nook with stunning jade green tiles,” says Danielle.

Shower
We love the statement tile in the shower

Timber accents run through into the bathroom and laundry too, with Kethy oak knobs, ABI Interior brushed copper tapware and fittings (as in the kitchen) and a bespoke vanity made with Elegant Oak by Laminex. Green tiles, from Surface Gallery, were specified to complement the surrounding greenery.

Laundry
Laundry

And it would seem the client is happy too. “Danielle exceeded our expectations, her eye for detail is incredible. The small touches and details completely transformed our space. We love our new home!” 

Photography: Tim Jones | Styling: Danielle Victoria Design Studio

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Timber moulding trends 2023: Coastal, modern farmhouse & Hamptons

Gray and Co.'s stunning Southern Highlands holiday home
Gray and Co.'s stunning Southern Highlands holiday home

Sponsored by: Intrim

The latest Intrim style series sees us look at three very different homes and the way in which timber mouldings work to create distinct aesthetics in each. First up there’s the 2021 Block contestants Kirsty and Jesse’s Country Coastal abode. Second cab off the rank is Gray & Co’s Modern Farmhouse while design duo Zephyr & Stone’s Modern Hamptons property rounds out the inspiration. From a circular architrave to unique wall battens, these examples feature some of the most beautiful use of timber mouldings that we’ve seen.

Gray and Co.
Zephyr + Stone project
Kirsty & Jesse

Country Coastal
An ongoing project with regular interesting reveals, former Blockheads Kirsty and Jesse have been very busy with their lake house renovation of late. A standout power couple from the 2021 season of the show, their latest project is in fact their own home. A coastal-styled residence, it’s a great one to check out if you’re as fascinated by the ‘before and after’ genre as we are. Intrim skirting boards, architraves, chair rails, VJ boards, handrails and windowsill nosings have all worked in concert to take the renovation to the next level.

Kirsty and Jesse’s Country Coastal home
Kirsty & Jesse

Intrim products used throughout include SK498 skirting boards and architraves, CR45 chair rail, VJ Board Pro 150, SN03 sill nosing around the windows and IHR04 handrails.

Modern Farmhouse
Located in the NSW Southern Highlands, interior designer Graham Simmonds’ home walks the fine line between modern and country styling. The owner of Gray and Co, the Sydney interior designer and retailer has created a gorgeously warm feel throughout, in large part due to the judicious use of Intrim mouldings. Featured products include lining boards, wall battens, skirtings boards and architraves.

Gray and Co.'s stunning Southern Highlands holiday home
Gray and Co’s stunning Southern Highlands holiday home
Gray and Co.
A great use of wall battens adds interest
Gray and Co.
The texture of the lining board on the walls makes a subtle statement

Intrim products used include Lining Board LB35 (185mm x 12mm – FSC) in the main bathroom, Wall Batten SK06 (custom 42mm x 12mm) in the bathroom, as well as the skirting boards and architraves SK552 (135mm x 25mm – FSC) and SK552 (90mm x 25mm – FSC).

Modern Hamptons
Gold Coast sister duo Kasia Clarke and Ania Forster, of Zephyr + Stone, have used Intrim Mouldings to create a contemporary take on the Hamptons aesthetic in their latest project. Circle architraves, raised panel wainscoting and large skirting boards add gorgeous character and style.

We especially love the circle architrave which makes a bold statement in the bathroom in the form of a porthole window – a feature that looks fabulous both inside and out. Used throughout the home, wainscoting elevates the home’s white walls for a fresh, modern take on Hamptons style.

Zephyr + Stone project
Zephyr + Stone project
Zephyr + Stone project
Chair rail was cleverly used both above and below the wainscoting to give the illusion of extra tall skirting.

Intrim products used: Wainscoting: Chair Rail CR84 and Inlay Mould IN04, Circle Architraves SK466 90mm and Skirting: SK327 185mm.

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Art Interiors Addict Interviews

Australian desert inspires new contemporary landscape artist

Elle Pervez
When Time Stool Still

The child of a farmer and teacher, Melbourne based artist Elle Pervez grew up in rural New South Wales before moving to a remote indigenous community in the Northern Territory; an experience that continues to shape her perspective and artistic output. “Having grown up partly in the Northern Territory, the desert areas up that way really stole my heart. My inspiration seems to come from the Australian desert – I like the sandy soil and harsh climate,” she says.

Elle Pervez
Scorpio by Elle Pervez

Elle grew up in a creative household – her mother is a painter also, and her father and extended family all have an artistic bent. And while Elle has been painting her whole life (she is self-taught), it was after her husband told her that they were running out of wall space at home that she decided to give an art career a go in a serious way.

“I needed to find a way to move some of the pieces on, so I approached a small gallery in Gundagai and my career has evolved from there,” says Elle who was living in Canberra at the time. Her works can now be found in galleries in Victoria and New South Wales and through her online store ‘Living Small’ which also showcases the work of her mother, Carolyn Brennan-Tucker.

'Alice' by Elle Pervez
Alice

Working primarily with acrylic paint, Elle describes herself as a mixed media artist and uses a variety of things to give her works extra texture – gold foil, oil stick, sand, and even gemstones. “You can harvest garnets and amethysts in the NT desert. I have found them in the Harts Range and added those semi-precious gems to my pieces too,” says Elle.  

Elle describes herself as a mixed media artist
Elle describes herself as a mixed media artist
Garnets mined from the Harts Range
Garnets mined from the Harts Range

As for the next collection, Elle is hoping that inspiration will strike on an upcoming trip to Pakistan with her husband and young daughter. Her husband is from there and she is excited about seeing the landscape and immersing herself in the culture. “I’m looking forward to seeing the colours and all the different patterns on the buildings. I plan to takes lots of pictures as reference for my next collection.”

Elle Pervez
When Time Stood Still
Elle with her daughter Zoya
Elle with her daughter Zoya

If you’re currently in the market for a piece of original art, Elle’s pieces start from a very affordable $290 (30cm x 30cm) and fetch around $2,500 for a 1.2m x 1.5m work. “I’m still quite new and don’t want to overprice myself. I also like the idea that original art should be affordable for people.”

A Summer Nostalgia
A Summer Nostalgia

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Wabi Sabi Byron home is full of treasures and perfectly imperfect

Sikata House, one of three properties designed by The Designory team, sits within a quarter acre corner site in Byron Bay’s coveted golden grid, mirroring the sandy warm tones of the surrounding beaches, clifftops and bushlands.

Exuding all the hallmarks of the global travel experience, the home is an exploration of the concept of wabi sabi, the elusive beauty of imperfection, aptly showcased through the use of stunning handcrafted materials, vintage furniture pieces, and treasures sourced from all over the world. 

Set over two storeys, Sikata House comprises four expansive bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living areas, and lushly landscaped outdoor entertaining areas, designed for multiple families or larger groups to reconnect and unwind. 

Entering the front gate, a sense of “home” is evoked as the first room you see is the rumpus, which is the main living area. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open up to the outdoor areas and pool, providing easy access to indoor, outdoor relaxation. Sheer curtains frame the windows, providing the space with an ethereal quality. “For the rumpus room, I wanted to be able to draw the curtains out of the way during the day or leave them floating in the breeze when the doors are open. The floor-to-ceiling S wave sheer curtain on a curved, motorised track works beautifully, as it allows the curtains to wrap back into the room and opens the space fully to the landscape,” says Melissa Bonney, company director and lead designer at The Designory.

With rest and rejuvenation the main focus for the house, the master bedroom, complete with a master ensuite and private balcony, comprises of a king size four-poster teak bed, set against the natural fibres of the S wave blockout curtain, which complements the neutral aesthetics of the house. “As a busy mum and business owner who doesn’t usually get much sleep, the blockout material is a godsend,” says Melissa.

“Having the option to select custom fabrics for each room allowed us to get creative, matching and complementing textures and tones throughout. For the remaining three bedrooms we’ve chosen blockout roller blinds to create the perfect ambiance for a restful sleep, regardless if it’s day or night.” 

The light-filled home designed specifically for entertaining, also boasts a number of open plan zones and breakout spaces, as well as a perfectly oriented, north-facing alfresco area. The addition of a Luxaflex motorised awning helps keep the sun and heat at bay and maximises the living space while providing a continuous indoor-outdoor transition. With the addition of a heated designer plunge pool alongside an outdoor fire pit, and a BBQ space, the outdoor area can be enjoyed all year round.

Sikata House evokes the rawness of the Australian coastal palette through its carefully curated design elements, creating an ephemeral feeling of beauty that pervades the home and stays with you long after you leave.

Luxaflex window furnishings feature throughout the house, blending perfectly with design elements that depict the Australian coastal palette, through the use of natural materials and textures.