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!”
With a community of over 65 million homeowners and home design enthusiasts and more than 3 million residential construction and design professionals around the world, Houzz has some unique insights into how people are designing their homes.
Here are their top eight home design predictions for 2023.
1. Greens, spice and everything nice
Terracottas and forest greens have emerged as one of the dominant colour palettes for the coming year. ‘Sage kitchens’ and forest ‘green bedrooms’ have already surged in popularity among the Houzz community with searches following, which are up by 339% and 156% more than the previous year, respectively. A clay-and-forest inspired palette complement with colours reminiscent of spices such as mustard and turmeric yellows, burnt siennas and saffron pinks is commonly used by interiors designers on Houzz, to warm up interiors.
Clovelly designed by Naibu Design. Photo by Sue Stubbs
2. Metal mesh
The industrial metal mesh has transformed into a stylish feature, elevating some very ordinary parts inside Australian homes. On Houzz we see metal mesh incorporated into stairways, where it is used as the stair path or as a railing sandwiched between two steel frames. Aside from being visually appealing, the material’s detailed surface also allows enough light to permeate and illuminate its surroundings. Designers on Houzz expect to see more of this trendy yet timeless material in 2023, woven into interior architecture and as a decorative accent in shelving display units, doors and more.
St Kilda West Residence designed by Ewert Leaf. Built by Prolifica
3. Extra comfort
With an increase in searches on Houzz for ‘banquette seating’ (up by 97%), ‘bench seat’ (up by 88%), and the return of the 70s ‘sunken lounge’ (up by 51%), there is clearly a desire among homeowners to accentuate moments of togetherness. Unsurprisingly, pros on Houzz predict that after years of confinement, demand for intimate zones that encapsulate the social enjoyment we once left home for will continue to be important in coming years.
4. Barkitecture
Designer doggy doors, customised dog baths, heated sleeping areas, and ingenious pathways for cats are already cropping up on Houzz. While the trend may appear as pooch pampering, pros on Houzz say homeowners are requesting these customised spaces to make the chores of caring for their cherished pets easier. Going into 2023, we’ll continue to see a growing number of exciting pet-friendly features that furry family members can call their own.
Cubby Cottage by Kitty Lee Architecture. Photo by The Palm Co
5. Windows of wonder
Openings to urban greenery that draw the eye towards a perfectly-framed view are gaining traction in the Houzz community. In many densifying Australian suburbs, thoughtful window design, providing relief to the outdoors, are cropping up in circular forms or squeezed into surprising places where they fit. This trend underpins the increasing embrace of biophilic principles, as homeowners look for ways to connect with the natural environment through their homes.
6. Outdoors going in
For several years, indoor-outdoor living has been synonymous with Australian homes, with terms on Houzz such as ‘coastal kitchen’, ‘decks’ and ‘outdoor dining’ topping homeowner searches year-on-year. Furniture designed to provide a seamless aesthetic between indoors and out is a trend beginning to work in reverse. Expect new outdoor furniture collections by leading manufacturers to put a spotlight on adaptability. In 2023, we expect to see a shift of durable products that use fade-resistant fabrics, denser foam and sturdier construction brought into transitional spaces and slowly edging indoors.
7. Colour blocking drama
Striking colour-matched interiors, particularly where the same colour is used on joinery adjacent to walls, are growing in popularity on Houzz. First served as a cost-effective solution to industry supply challenges, allowing for on-site painting and flexibility in last-minute adjustments. The clean, sophisticated look also addresses a way for designers and homeowners to make cabinetry more discreet and integrated into surroundings. Pros on Houzz say there’s been a resurgence of people looking to energise their spaces with colour, so expect more dramatic colour-blocking displays in kitchens, living rooms and wardrobes in 2023.
Northcote House by Lisa Breeze Architect. Photo by Cathy Schusler
8. Tactile walls
Fluted or ribbed ridges began to appear in glass or joinery, and now we see them enhancing ‘wall panels’, with the search term on Houzz jumping up by 321% more than the past year. As enforced time at home led to the rejection of angles and sharp edges, these softer surfaces reflect homeowners’ wishes for a gentler, calmer sanctuary. We can see some of Houzz’s most saved bedrooms and living areas in Australia incorporate this sumptuous wall detailing, which tells us to expect more of this trend in the new year.
While new technologies continue to shape the interior design scene, one that has been getting a fair bit of traction of late is marble-look porcelain. A great alternative to the much more costly natural stone, the latest printed porcelain tile technology makes it difficult to distinguish from the real thing.
Founded by husband and wife duo Anton and Rita Bourtsev, Sydney’s Kaolin Tiles has a unique offering in this space – the company offers over 100 different marble-look tile designs in small and large formats.
This bathroom features Kaolin Tiles marble printed porcelain tiles
“We scan natural stones and recreate them by printing them on porcelain tiles. We do a 12-layer print which gives incredible depth and realism as there are several colours printed on top of one another. It’s pretty had to differentiate our porcelain product from natural stone,” says Anton Bourtsev of the product that can be used on the floor and wall, kitchen benchtops and bathroom vanities.
The Kaolin Tiles showroom
The Kaolin Tiles range is made from clay and the company name is derived from the Gaoling Village in China where fine China has been made since the 15th century. Kaolin is considered the superior clay because it is the hardest, most elastic and translucent and the resulting material is durable and strong as well as heat, chip and scratch resistant – all fabulous selling points.
“People still see porcelain tiles as a typical construction material that’s only available in small sizes, but we use porcelain to create that precious stone look in a large format,” says Anton.
And as for pricing, where you might pay between $700 and $2,000 per square metre for a natural stone, the Kaolin product comes in at around $200 per square metre.
Unsurprisingly, the product’s affordability has also resulted in several clients being more adventurous with colour. “Even if you have a high budget, it’s still hard to find pink or blue natural stone but with our product you can get the same look on a much smaller budget so we’ve found that our clients are taking more risks with colour in their homes,” says Anton.
This bathroom uses tiles that mimic the natural stone Sodalite Blue
Kaolin Tiles also has an Endless Vein product that allows you to purchase sets comprised of six-to-eight large format porcelain sheets. They come in 750mm x 1500mm and 900mm x 1800mm iterations and all join to create an endless connection between the veins. “You don’t see the print repeated and it looks like one beautiful piece. For example, an eight-piece set would give you around 13 square metres without repeating the veining,” says Anton.
Also, the product can be laid with an almost seamless grout join – whereas a typical join is 1.5-3mm, the Kaolin range can accommodate a 0.5mm grout join. “The very small grout combined with the endless vein makes for a stylish finish.”
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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This easy pasta recipe from Winning Appliances is fresh and filling. If you haven’t made your own pesto before, time to realise how simple it is!
This recipe is by Winning Appliances culinary expert, Gianni Carrieri.
Half cup light olive oil
200 gm rocket
60 gm blanched almonds
1 clove garlic (thinly sliced)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon rind
130 gm grated parmesan
1 tsp sea salt flakes
Quarter tsp pepper
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
400 gm cherry tomatoes (halved)
4 basil leaves
100 gm green beans (trimmed)
1 500gm pack fusilli pasta
200 gm bocconcini mozzarella (cut into quarters)
toasted, flaked almonds (to serve)
Pour the olive oil and rocket into a food processor, blend for about 30 seconds until the ingredients are combined but not totally smooth. Scrape down the side and continue blending, add almond, half the garlic, lemon juice, parmesan cheese and rind, half of the salt and pepper. Gradually add the remaining olive oil and blend until all the ingredients are just combined.
In a bowl, let tomatoes infuse with extra virgin olive oil, the other half of the garlic, the remaining salt, fresh basil leaves and lemon rind for 20 minutes.
Bring some water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 4 min, drain and soak them in iced water for 5 min, then cut in 2 cm pcs.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, reserving a third of the cooking water. Toss cooked pasta with pesto and reserved cooking water, add the tomatoes, green beans, bocconcini, toasted almond flakes and the remaining grated parmesan. Serve immediately.
Pesto can be kept into the fridge for up to 5 days. Pesto can also been frozen and used when necessary.
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More than just a decorative piece, a well placed rug can warm a room, dampen noise and bring a scheme together. Unfortunately, shopping for a rug can be tedious and intimidating. However, Miss Amara, a design-led Australian-owned rug brand, is modernising the business of rugs with sustainability, exclusive designs and customer experience.
Miss Amara elevates the usually daunting experience, offering free styling services by in-house interior experts, a virtual rug styling tool that uses augmented reality to help customers visualise what a rug will look like in their space and a risk-free returns service.
With collections built on versatility, the Miss Amara rugs are designed by an in-house creative team, showcasing abstract concepts and patterns that are inspired from far flung destinations around the world and timeless design style. From Scandinavian, Tribal, Contemporary, Traditional and Mid-Century, the Miss Amara rugs are made from the highest-grade materials with an extensive range of sizes perfect for finishing lounge and living spaces, bedrooms, kids rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, hallways and outdoors.
Founded in 2014 by husband-and-wife duo Aaron Weller and Alex Tanya Weller, Miss Amara now has more than 70 staff operating online stores across Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand and USA.
Miss Amara founders, Aaron Weller and Alex Tanya Weller
“The inspiration behind Miss Amara came after I had tried and failed to purchase a rug online. After asking family and friends, I realised it was a common occurrence – people would get really inspired, go on Pinterest, find amazing photos and then reality would hit – the experience of actually buying a rug online at the time was terrible.
“Our competitors had thousands of rugs in their ranges, but they were all product photos. There were no inspiring photos of rugs in beautiful spaces, no interior design advice or customer service – just a sea of sameness and endless clicks,” said Alex.
The Miss Amara range includes soft, stain-resistant rugs that can be machine washed, high pile rugs designed to sink your feet into, pet-friendly rugs and sustainable rugs made with recyclable fibres, such as PET (recycled bottles) and recycled leather.
Located less than two hours from Sydney, in the NSW Southern Highlands, Burrawang House is the latest luxury holiday home to hit the market and just in time for the festive season. Set on a parcel of land that is just over one acre in size, this Insta-worthy spot is giving us serious Cape Cod vibes and is the perfect rural retreat for design lovers.
“The beauty of Burrawang House is that it was built in 2022, but it brings in so many elements which make it feel like it’s been here forever, people feel instantly at home,” says Gabrielle Brewer, co-owner of the architecturally designed weatherboard home that sleeps 14 people making it ideal for large groups of family or friends.
The huge entertainers’ kitchen features a three-metre-long island bench, double Bertazzoni oven and cantilevered window which opens to the outside living room that has a recycled brick wood fireplace.
Kitchen
The large open plan living space features a towering cathedral roof design, oak floorboards, large oak dining table, and light streaming in through windows on all sides. There’s also an 18th Century Belgian mantle fireplace and huge L-shaped Jardan sofa in the lounge room.
Lounge room
The outdoor area is a highlight of the retreat with the nine-metre pool and eight-person spa an amazing spot to relax under the shade of the sun loungers on the sprawling pool deck.
Pool
“There are pergolas with recycled wood recovered from the Sydney Fish Markets, beautiful art collected over decades, antique furniture, bespoke joinery, lighting from the Montauk Company, Kate Spade, Paul Smith and Louis Poulsen and beautiful Armadillo rugs,” says Gabrielle.
Bedroom
The home sleeps 14 people and boasts five bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms; the bedrooms include four king-sized bedrooms and a bunk room with six king single beds (all the bedrooms come with luxe linen). The house also has a games room, snooker and pool table, dart board and outside ping pong table to amuse guests.
Bunk room
And if you can prise yourself away from the property for just a few moments, there are national parks and forests right on the doorstep and the gorgeous Fitzroy Falls is just ten minutes away.
A renowned cool-climate wine region there are also 15 cellar doors in the area, antique shops, golf courses, open gardens, art galleries and excellent cafes and restaurants including the highly regarded Burrawang Village Hotel pub and Burrawang Village General Store Café. Established in 1865, the quaint picture-postcard village is a fabulous rural getaway.
Games room
Burrawang House is priced at $5,790 for two nights, for up to 14 people.
Australian homemakers are favouring safer styles such as Traditional, Coastal and Scandinavian when it comes to home renovation, according to new data from more than 20,000 Australians who have taken the Beaumont Tiles What’s My Style quiz in the past year.
Lifestyle Beachwood Kuni Grey Matt
The data shows more than half of the respondents lean towards the three lighter, neutral styles out of the top 10 global interior design trends available, which also include Contemporary, Farmhouse, Industrial, Mediterranean, Modern, Vintage and Wanderlust.
Christie Wood, Beaumont Tiles design specialist, said that Australians’ love of these looks has only solidified over the last five years, hitting 51% this year following four years of incremental growth for the three styles.
“While these styles may be seen as safe, it isn’t surprising that Traditional, Coastal and Scandi are favoured when you consider the Australian environment,” she said. “Thanks to our warmer climate, we are looking for openness and lighter spaces with these looks ticking the boxes for these requirements.”
Scandinavian Live a Little Mint Complete Bathroom Package
Christie said some may see the prominence of Traditional, Coastal and Scandi styles by Australian homemakers as being safe, subdued, and conservative. “But the good news is these styles can easily be injected with a bit of fun and personality through the addition of colour, the use of decorative tiles, addition of soft furnishings.”
Traditional Florence Value Complete Bathroom Package
“In the bathroom for instance, you can easily create a splash of colour which wouldn’t be out of place with any of these styles with the new Nood Co range of colourful basins exclusive to Beaumonts. In the kitchen, you can create a statement that is just a little bit different from the regular houses of these styles by trying a pop of colour or pattern with your kitchen splashback and adding a bit of greenery to the space.
“Being bold through some choice additions can really make your space unique and personalise your new reno look.”
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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The thought of painting walls and ceilings yourself can be a daunting. Nobody wants to make what seem like permanent mistakes whilst painting for everyone to see. That is why British Paints has shared their top tips that all first time painters need to know.
Check for damage on walls
The first important step when starting a new paint project is to check walls for damages and marks, in order to determine exactly what paint and tools are needed. Are there any leaks? Is there pre-existing mould or stains? Are there any cracks? If these aren’t attended to before painting, it will impact the final result. Water stains, oil based stains, ceiling mould, gaps, holes or cracks are all common types of damage. Such issues can be solved with specialist paint products.
*Tip: Use oil-based products for water stains and water-based products for oil-based stains!
Set up with the right tools
Having the right tools is essential for tackling a paint project. Pairing the right paint to the right brush/roller is key to ensuring the finished product is faultless. Brushes are perfect for small areas, trims and edges, while a roller is great for a large painting area, such as a wall or ceiling.
Along with the correct pairing, add the following to the shopping list: frame, ladder, roller tray, roller pole, drop sheets, painter’s tape, filing blades, gap filler, rags, sandpaper, sugar soap.
How to know when to use a primer
Although similar, primers and undercoats both serve quite different functions. Primers act as a foundation for paint to stick to, while undercoats create a flat and level base for topcoats. An easy way to remember when to use a primer is if a surface is new and hasn’t been painted before.
If a surface is painted and in good condition, but in need of a refresh, a regular paint without a primer can be used. Ensure the wall has had a good clean, with sugar soap, then use British Paints Clean & Protect Low Sheen to give the wall a refresh. Clean & Protect is guaranteed to protect from mould, it’s easy to apply, allows for a smooth flow and an even finish.
Choosing the right paint
Paints are designed for different purposes and it’s important to look for a paint specific to the project at hand. When painting a ceiling, for example, the aim is for a lower gloss paint, to create a flat finish. Whereas, if painting exterior surfaces, use a paint that can protect against seasonal demands.
Once the purpose of the paint is decided, it’s time to choose the colour! To assist with the hardest decision of all, Aussies can visit British Paints’ online colour wall assistant tool to work out the best colour for the project and how much paint is needed.
Give it a go!
The best way to get started on a painting project, is to just give it a go! Painting is supposed to be fun, particularly for painting novices setting out to DIY homes. Because of this, British Paints has the Good Job Guarantee which gives painters piece of mind by offering paint replacement for any mishaps or mistakes that happen along the way – so there’s no reason not to give it a go!
Matt bathroom finishes are definitely trending, with a move towards more textured, brushed and flat surfaces and materials in this room. We’re seeing more and more matt tile options and concrete (or concrete look) vanity tops. Shiny is no longer the be all and end all, with perfectly imperfect also a firm favourite!
They’ve created the ideal finishing touch with Selleys’ first Wet Area Matt silicone, as an alternative to the usual glossy finish version, for a softer look when finishing off your bathroom, kitchen or laundry.
As we’re always saying, it’s the sum of the seemingly little details in interiors which make all the difference and lead to a cohesive look. I wanted to try out this product for you in my own three-year-old bathroom, replacing some silicone which had turned yellow (it looked much worse in reality than the photos capture!) around my bath and some that had started to peel away on the floor.
Yellowed silicone around the bathPeeling silicone around the toilet Applying new matt silicone around the bathTooling the silicone to achieve a smooth finish
You can easily DIY this yourself. You just need a caulking gun, a knife/blade to cut away the old silicone and a silicone applicator/scraper/spatula (or an ice cream stick!) to get that smooth finish. My friend and I managed it quickly and easily and it was actually quite satisfying! The non-corrosive, neutral cure formula (it takes 72 hours to cure completely) meant it didn’t stink either!
You can either spray detergent on the silicone or dip your spatula in it before you tool it for a smooth finish. Working in small sections makes for an easier and less rushed job!
Dip the silicone tool in detergent
Fresh matt silicone against my matt floor tiles!And around the bath
I feel like by bathroom’s looking its best again due to this little change!
My bathroom back to spotless with fresh white silicone!
Selleys Wet Area Matt is a 100% neutral cure, mould resistant silicone sealant, specially designed to create a long-lasting waterproof seal that will not shrink, crack, or peel away. It comes with a 25-year guarantee*against shrinking, cracking and peeling.
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.
Architectural photography of a grey Hamptons style home facade with a topiary trees at the entrance and a bench set and flower pots
For over a decade, Australians have had a love affair with the Hamptons style, with the trend increasing throughout the 2020 renovation boom and now considered as one of the most desired design themes for Aussie homes in 2022. However, it’s not just the indoors where the Hamptons trend is featuring, it’s a favourite in outdoor areas as well.
Hamptons Coastal Moodboard
Award-winning landscape designer and Adbri Masonry ambassador, Jason Hodges, has shared his expert advice on achieving the Hamptons look, from your side path to your front garden.
Front garden and entry
The front garden and entry offer the first impression of your home, so it’s important to maximise street appeal. A typical Hamptons house garden consists of a mix of lush, green lawns, neatly trimmed hedges and topiaries, as well as traditional flowering plants mostly in blues, whites and purples, like hydrangeas, orchids and gardenias. Rather than chaotic paving and random flowerbeds, Hamptons-style landscaping demands an organised approach, so structured symmetrical paving is essential. “Consider a lawn edging product to create formal and well-defined zones, such as Adbri Masonry’s lawn edge. It’s a versatile DIY-friendly garden edging unit perfect for separating the lawn from the garden bed. It also stops turf runners from creeping into plants,” says Jason.
Lawn Edge in Oatmeal
Driveway
Driveways don’t have to be just functional concrete slabs. Light-coloured rectangular pavers, such as Adbri Masonry’s Havenbrick, placed in a stretcher or herringbone pattern, add to the overall neat, manicured landscaping of the front yard and creates a stunning first impression leading up to your home. There are many different pavers to choose from, however, when considering pavers for your driveway, ensure they are rated for driveway use.
Side Paths
A well-presented side path is practical and attractive and can increase the value of your home, as well as adding valuable additional space to utilise. To have the continuity of Hamptons style throughout your property, consider a footpath or feature stepping stone path using large format square or rectangular concrete pavers. Concrete pavers such as Adbri Euro Classic or Euro Stone are hard-wearing, easy to install and look great. For added ‘wow’ factor, lay the pavers offset in a stretcher bond pattern and fill the voids with decorative stones or greenery.
Backyard
To many Australians, Hamptons gardens are synonymous with size, large expanses of lawn, pool houses and monster hedges. The reality is, there are key elements of a Hamptons style that can be brought into a garden of any size with smart material selection. A beautiful deck with white rails bordered by lush, green hedges will create the classic Hamptons garden design, however, if you have a smaller space, you can bring in the greenery with buxus balls that still allow for formality and provide a manicured aesthetic.
Jason suggests creating an entertaining area with large concrete pavers, where you can unwind with friends and family. “You need a functional paved area to appreciate the beauty of your garden.”
Jason adds: “You will never regret improving your home with a destination garden, you will get more out of your home, increase its value and literally feel like you are on holiday all year round.”
Home to a young couple and their cat, this three-bedroom apartment in Sydney’s leafy Darling Point was renovated recently with interior designer Marylou Sobel at the helm. Responding to a ‘classic yet contemporary’ design brief, the result is a sophisticated, tranquil and luxurious home.
We love the hallway’s classic checkerboard floor.
“The home hadn’t been refurbished for more than 30 years so it needed updating. It was tired and lacked lustre,” says Marylou. Starting with the entrance hall and powder room, she persuaded the owners to use black and white tiles (Nero Marquina and Carrara marble) that complement the heritage of the home while providing consistency across the different spaces. “I love the entrance hall, it has wow factor, is classical and chic. Overall, the home feels current and yet like it’s always been this way,” says Marylou.
Kitchen
Previously a very small, galley-style kitchen positioned at the back of the family room, the home’s new kitchen is a high-spec entertainers’ delight complete with a bespoke eating nook. The redesign wasn’t easy though; space was taken from the nearby family room and the existing kitchen was turned into the pantry. “The kitchen is a wonderful space now; it’s well appointed, functional, sophisticated, and full of light. It’s a great space to cook, entertain and eat in,” says Marylou of the room that also cleverly incorporates a scullery laundry enclosed behind bifold doors.
Eating nook
In the dining room, an ethereal wallpaper is juxtaposed with a large, sculptural dining table while iron wall sconces further enhance the space. “They add an art-like feature to the walls and the television is tactfully hidden behind bespoke built-in cabinetry in the adjacent living room,” says Marylou.
Dining room
A TV is hidden behind custom cabinetry in the lounge room
The master bedroom is a combination of textures and a soft and calming palette, highlighted by an abundance of natural light. The neutral-toned master bathroom features a vanity with a double sink and a mosaic back wall.
Master bedroom
Bathroom
But unlike renovating a home, overhauling an apartment comes with a specific set of challenges – council approval and logistical hurdles just some of the things to consider. Not only did Marylou have to think about where the apartment was situated in the building, but also about how a renovation will impact neighbours regarding noise and dirt. “The common areas must be kept clean and free of obstacles and the use of the elevator may have a time stipulation. The inside of the elevator also needs to be protected and builders may need to crane machinery and supplies up to an apartment,” she says.
Lounge room
Challenges aside, the home’s owners adore their new abode. “They wanted a calming sanctuary to come home to after work and travel as well as a place to entertain family and friends with ease. The clients trusted us to transform their home and we thoroughly enjoyed working with them.”
Design-led developer and builder Lowe Living has unveiled the final interiors release of its in-demand Sera project in Brighton, which has been exclusively designed by Australian media personality and TV presenter, Bec Judd.
Located on the corner of Pine and Hampton Streets in Brighton, Sera is the first of two Bayside-based Lowe Living projects that Bec will collaborate on over the coming months, bringing her unique style and eye for interior design to what will be her first multi-residential interiors project, after completing a string of successful high-end residential home renovations in recent years.
Bec has selected a timeless Tundra natural stone that hails from Turkey as the feature throughout the interiors, accompanied by soft timber detailing and in-built feature joinery, such as the custom profiled doors in a premium 2pac finish. Curved timber lines intersect with the sharp mitred stone edges to create the perfect balance of crisp, clean lines, and curvilinear forms.
“I wanted to connect the striking external façade to the interior design to really give a sense of holistic design. The exterior arched detail is subtly repeated internally with the use of a curved leg on the kitchen island, curved joinery elements, a feature arch-like stone handle on the tv joinery and a gorgeous dome shaped wall light,” said Bec.
“Warm, neutral tones with a complementary mix of stones, timbers and tiles really elevate the spaces to feel luxe yet welcoming, sophisticated but unpretentious. The soft tonal palette gives the interiors a relaxed, calming ambience. I really wanted to design interiors that were warm, inviting, textural and of a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe.”
Bec’s top five trends from her Sera design collaboration are:
Curves: “ The striking façade of Sera lends itself to mirroring this iconic curve internally, seen through the arched kitchen island leg, dome wall sconces and bespoke curved joinery that provide a seamless transition from outside in.”
Warmth: “Inviting tones of warm greys and beige provide a luxurious yet welcoming palette, while also creating a spacious ambience throughout the project.”
Texture: “Layering timber, natural stone, wool and gloss tiles provides ample textural interest and accentuates exceptional luxury in every finish.”
Integration: “A key element in all my designs is to ensure appliances are seamlessly integrated into joinery to allow for hidden functionality. There is nothing more distracting than appliance cords and boxes detracting from beautiful interiors.”
Profile: “I love playing with gorgeous joinery profiles, and the modern Shaker profile in the main ensuite and kitchen at Sera is a key focal point, elevating the luxury and functionality of the space. The contemporary yet classic profile is slim in its design and is the cherry on top for the gorgeous joinery throughout the project.”
The final Sera collection, designed by Bec Judd, features a limited number of two and three-bedroom residences starting from $1,295,000.
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
A striking violet-blue shade that reminds me instantly of hydrangea, the Pantone Colour of The Year 2022 was recently announced…
Pantone Colours of the Year 2021: ‘Ultimate Gray’ & ‘Illuminating’
In a year that has been punctuated by highs and lows, light and shade, it’s little surprise that the Pantone…
Shortlisted in the House & Garden Top 50 rooms award in the “Best Use of Art” category, this art-filled heritage cottage is nestled in Sydney’s Neutral Bay. Inspired by the owner’s passion for Kit Kemp, the home has been renovated and extended and features plenty of fabulous art (obviously!) and playful pops of pink throughout.
Lounge room
“The client’s bravery and love for Kit Kemp inspired a lot of the design – her love for art also helped. The use of bright and bold colours and patterns has made this one of the most colourful projects I’ve worked on,” says architect Brooke Aitken who extended the home at the rear to provide a more spacious and user-friendly kitchen and dining while creating a connection to the rear garden.
Heritage listed, the original part of the semi-detached home remains the same. “The extension is at the rear and not visible from the street which gave us a little more leeway,” says Brooke who explains that one of the key renovation challenges was gaining approval for the works.
Bedroom
Bedroom
Providing visual relief from the rest of the colour-soaked home, the home’s kitchen is a clean, neutral space. Carrara marble bench tops are paired with white satin rhombus shaped tiles from Surface Studio. “There was already so much colour and texture in play. The white in the kitchen provided a clean base and ensures the spaces are bright which is much needed as the front of the house is lacking in a lot of natural light,” says Brooke.
The adjacent dining room was reimagined as a conduit between the existing garden and main house, set two steps below kitchen level with large steel doors flowing to the fresh entertaining deck. Art-filled, the dining nook is one of the home’s most gorgeous spaces.
Dining nook
The bathroom is another tranquil, neutral zone that complements the kitchen. “The bathroom design brief was for a simple, clean room flooded with light, so the colour and tone, finishes and detailing were all designed to work around this starting point,” says Brooke.
Bathroom
Brooke repurposed many of the owner’s existing items using paint and reupholstery to give them new life. “We spray painted the TV unit green and we reupholstered the dining chairs, living room occasional chairs and living room sofa which were all the client’s own,” says Brooke. One such item was the occasional chair that lives in the lounge room – covered in $4,000 worth of fabric, it was the biggest splurge of the project. “Our client works long hours, so we wanted to create a beautiful home that she can enjoy in her downtime.”
The reupholstered occasional chair and freshly painted green TV unit
We’re all ready to fill up our houses with the latest Christmas decor, but how do we avoid it being boring or tacky? Well this year to get you host ready in style, Shaye Ford, interior designer at Miss Amara, has shared their tips for levelling up your Christmas décor.
Choose the right colour scheme
Great festive décor begins with a solid colour scheme – and this doesn’t mean confining yourself to the usual red and white palette. From neutral colours to warm metallic hues like gold, brass, copper and rose gold – think outside the box to give your space a distinct yet festive look. A fail-proof route to take is the middle ground and keeping things effortless with layered neutral tones combined with shiny accents or pops of colour. Warm creams, white and textural jute are a great foundation that can be accented with subtle sparkle and festive embellishments.
Play with patterns
A quick and hassle-free way to bring a holiday-theme to your space is to incorporate a statement centrepiece with a pattern for visual interest. For example, patterned napkins, placemats and area rugs can dramatically change the look of your dining room. The best way to make a small room feel festive is to go big on colour. Even if your home has a relatively neutral colour palette, adding a few vibrant pieces will shock your design system…in the best way possible. Just remember that instead of adding more, try changing what you already have, which will leave you with the same amount of space, but with more cheer.
Lay a fluffy rug under your tree
If a tree skirt isn’t for you, placing a fluffy, oversized rug under your tree can really take your décor to the next level, creating depth and richness to the overall look, plus protect your floors from scratches. While white is a popular choice to create the illusion of a snow-covered floor, you could also opt for something with brown tones of pattern to add texture.
Decorating trends for 2022
The decorating trends of 2022 will focus on the small moments that make Christmas truly magical. It’s time to create a joyful, uplifting space that stimulates warmth, tactility and togetherness, with simple comforts and heartwarming traditions. From nostalgic maximalism to sustainability, these are the trends that will help to put an elevated touch on your Christmas celebrations this year.
