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Design Expert Tips Homewares Interiors Addict

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.

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

Dated 90’s Port Macquarie home given stylish refresh

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

For more on Trentini Design

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

New bathroom & laundry layout elevates coastal home reno

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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Design Designers Interiors Addict RENO ADDICT

Timber moulding trends 2023: Coastal, modern farmhouse & Hamptons

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.

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 150SN03 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.

For more on Intrim

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Art Interiors Addict Interviews

Australian desert inspires new contemporary landscape artist

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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Recipes

Foodie Friday: Healthy tiger prawn pad Thai

This week’s recipe comes from Tropic Co and is an easy and healthy way to enjoy the popular Thai dish.

Healthy tiger prawn pad Thai

Recreate this takeout favourite with a healthy version which is no less tasty.

  • 20 extra large whole cooked tiger prawns (head and shell removed and deveined, tail on)
  • 300 g rice noodles (cooked as per packet instructions)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Quarter cup pad thai paste
  • 2 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 egg (lightly whisked )
  • 1 bunch broccolini (ends trimmed and cut into 3cm lengths)
  • Half cup beansprouts
  • 4 spring onions (finely sliced )
  • 2 tbsp crushed peanuts (toasted)
  • Additional beansprouts lime wedges and chilli (for serving )
  1. Heat oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.

  2. Add paste and soy sauce, cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in broccolini, cook whilst tossing for a further 3 minutes.

  3. Push broccolini to the side of the wok and pour in the egg, chopping it up as it is cooking.

  4. Add prawns, cooked noodles, beansprouts and spring opinions to the wok, toss for 1 to 2 minutes

  5. Serve with chopped peanuts, additional beansprouts, lime wedges and chilli.

Avoid mushy noodles by not over cooking and draining right away.

It is easy to get involved in National Prawn Day on 18 March 2023. Simply head to a participating venue, get your mates over and host a Tiger Prawn Feast, or simply pick up some Aussie tiger prawns from your local fishmonger or supermarket to enjoy at home. National Prawn Day was initiated by Tropic Co to celebrate all the delicious reasons to enjoy Australian prawns, special occasion or not.

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Architecture Design House Tours Interiors Addict

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.

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Homewares Interiors Addict Shopping

Marimekko’s latest 2023 home range sets a new mood

For Summer 2023, Finnish design house Marimekko sets a completely new mood. The collection interprets better living through the lens of optimistic futurism, which is seen in the simplified and mono-material aesthetics of the season.

The new collection plays with dynamics between different shapes and the dialogue between positive and negative space.

The kitchen selection presents new essential items designed for casual, family style dining. Items in the Oiva tableware assortment come in a new brown base, which combines beautifully with white base ceramics from previous seasons. The collection also introduces new additions for tea lovers – brown base Oiva tea mugs and teapot in Seireeni (siren) print by Maja Isola from 1964.

In textiles there’s a new crewel embroidered Seireeni cushion cover, which is made from unbleached cotton linen blend and the quilted Seireeni bedspread made from unbleached cotton and recycled polyester filling. 

The season’s colours play with the dialogue between nature’s own shaded and industrially manufactured colours. Natural shades, such as sand, burnt red and sky blue are mixed with artificial tones of spearmint green and joyful yellow. The overall aesthetic sets a hopeful atmosphere that yarns for those perfect summer days ahead. 

The season’s prints offer futuristic interpretations of some Marimekko classics. Fresh colourways and simplified prints bring a breath of something new, yet familiar at the same time into the season.

The prints come in monochromatic shades and simplified aesthetics. Minimal icons, such as Tilliskivi (brick) by Armi Ratia, Seireeni (siren) and Unikko (poppy) by Maija Louekari and Pyykki (laundry) by Jenni Tuominen, which both showcase a hand-painted aesthetic. 

For more

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Bedrooms Design Designers House Tours Interiors Addict The Block

Former Block twins Alisa & Lysandra’s latest project

Former Block twins, and interior designers, Alisa and Lysandra Fraser are back with the second season of their online series The Design Duo. The six-part series is based on a multi-million-dollar newly built home in Queensland’s Paradise Point. It’s just kicked off and it’s a great pervy insight into the sisters’ design process as they curate the bespoke waterfront residence. Today we’re bringing you a few pics of the home’s incredible master bedroom, ensuite and dressing area.

Bedroom
Bedroom
Dressing area
Dressing area

“This is our biggest ever project to date and we couldn’t be happier with the finished product. We have worked on this build for two and a half years and have put our blood, sweat and tears into this project, but seeing the homeowner’s reaction to the finished result made it all worth it – this is what reminds us why we do what we do,” says Lysandra. I think it’s safe to say that we would be pretty thrilled if this was our home too!

Bathroom
Bathroom
Bathroom
Bathroom

A local couple engaged the twins to create a timelessly designed, four-bedroom beachfront home for them and they appear to have nailed the brief. The online series documents the entire build process and gives viewers the opportunity to tune in and discover some of the twins’ best tricks of the trade along the way.

Walk in robe
Inside the master bedroom’s dreamy walk-in-robe
Walk-in-robe
Walk-in-robe

Showcasing the duo’s refined eye for detail, the high-end custom build features bespoke details and luxe fixtures and key suppliers include Reece Bathrooms, Beaumont Tiles, CDK Stone, Godfrey Hirst, Neolith, Taubmans Paint, Zip Tap, PGH, Bradford & Bosch and Luxaflex window coverings.

Alisa and Lysandra Fraser
Alisa and Lysandra Fraser

New episodes will run weekly, and the series is set to wrap up on March 6, 2023.
Tune into The Design Duo.

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Design Homewares Interiors Addict Shopping

New Kmart homewares range one of its best yet!

Kmart is kicking the year off with a bang with its February home range. It features some of its best buys yet which is really saying something. Designed and developed by Kmart’s in-house design and buying team in Melbourne, the collection features a plethora of functional furnishings, on-trend textures and colourful home accent pieces including bedding, occasional chairs, rugs, decorative vases and more.

Kmart’s February home range features these lovely wares

“Our customers are constantly looking for new and affordable ways to refresh and update the spaces within their home and we are proud to be able to bring the latest home and décor trends from across the globe to Australia. This season, it’s about creating gentle, restful nooks within the home, whilst still injecting personality via pops of colour, unique textures and nostalgic shapes and angles,” says Kmart’s divisional merchandise manager Meryn Serong.

Pots
Kmart’s lovely new pot collection
Bedding
There are excellent bedding options too

The range has been created around three key aesthetics (TimelessNatural and Urban) and the prices start from just $5. The Timeless and Natural aesthetics are all about creating calm, cosy spaces and key pieces within those ranges feature ceramics in sculptural waves and curves as well as rattan, blonde timbers and fabrics like boucle and shearling. The Urban collection features black touches as well as bold coloured glassware.

Kmart glassware
We love this coloured glassware

Highlights from the range include the said coloured glassware which comes in $14 sets and provide endless tablescaping opportunities. There are fun new sculptural candles too and the new pot and vase line-up features some stellar designs.

Bathroom
The new towel line-up is pretty gorgeous
Candles
The candle range starts from $5

The brand’s popular DIY offering has been expanded also, reflecting the increasing popularity of upcycling and DIY renovating. Fix-up finds include a new range of statement handles perfect for transforming and elevating existing furniture pieces, as well as an array of versatile wall tiles. 

Lighting
There are plenty of great new lighting options too

Shop online

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Art Bedrooms Interiors Addict

Stunning quilt covers from artist Grotti Lotti and Linen House

Artist Grotti Lotti (aka Casey Manson), whose unique painting style has an amazing way of capturing the beauty of nature, has launched an exciting collection in partnership with Australian homewares brand, Linen House. They hope the linen will free the mind and re-energise your sleeping space!

The Linen House x Grotti Lotti collection features three incredible pieces of work from Grotti Lotti, available to purchase as quilt cover sets and European pillowcases, as well as feature cushions. My Energy Is My Currency, Just Start Somewhere and Blow It Up, follow Casey’s signature loose and colourful contemporary style. The designs have been selected from Casey’s painted artwork and are digitally printed on a silky soft cotton sateen with a plain dyed reverse.

Casey’s first piece from the Linen House collection was My Energy Is My Currency, a thoughtful, earthy and relaxing piece. “I became completely immersed in this piece – based on some dried protea flowers in the studio I nicked from my mum’s block. The title is based on the notion that energy is interchangeable; it’s not always about the final product but the energy that goes into the piece that gives it life and captivates others. I love the thoughtful, earthy but relaxed nature of this piece. It has its own energy and synchronicity.”

My Energy is my Currency

Bright, loose and fresh, Just Start Somewhere includes her favourite colours and is centred around native blooms. The piece’s deep, earthy greens highlight her feelings of zen when in amongst nature.

Just Start Somewhere

Blow It Up, is an abstract of Casey’s own heart and mind with thick brushstrokes and pops of colour. Created after a small break, Casey put brush to canvas, allowing herself to create without rules or expectations.

Blow It Up

Casey said: “I’m so excited to have worked with Linen House on this bespoke collection. It has long been a dream of mine to create textiles from my work and Linen House have been the perfect team to work alongside to bring this dream to life. I am beyond proud of this collection, from my home studio to your homes, I hope you love them!”.

The collection is available now, exclusive to Linen House and Myer.

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Design Designers Expert Tips Homewares Interiors Addict Shopping

How to decorate your rental home in a damage-free way

Renting. Let’s face it – it’s got plenty of challenges, but there’s a certain sense of satisfaction in transforming a blank slate into something that feels cosy and ‘you’. And there are plenty of temporary ways you can style your rental property without running the risk of losing your bond and upsetting your landlord.

A serial renter in Sydney, Sophie Cartwright is a lighting designer and founder of the gorgeous new lighting brand Soffle. Today, she shares her top tips for adding personality to your rental space.

Sophie Cartwright

Use indoor plants to add a fresh feel
Adding greenery into your rental space will give it an instant lift. Choose fake florals to jazz up your coffee table, add herb pots to add a homely feel to your kitchen, and an orchid or eucalyptus plants to reinvigorate your bathroom; an easy and inexpensive way to breathe life into your space.

Create a green corner and take it with you when you move house!

Create wow factor with a statement pendant light
The main light in most rentals usually comes from a pendant light. With so many different affordable styles available, the main ceiling light is a real opportunity to stamp your personal design aesthetic on the space.

As well as providing plenty of lovely lumens, a large pendant light can be a focal point in a lounge, drawing the eye as you enter the room and tying everything together. 

Replace window coverings
Roller blinds or stained old curtains can make a rental feel very run-down. Switching these out for drapes or new curtains is a great way to introduce new colours and patterns into your home. Trial different fabrics and textures to liven up any space. 

Draperly
Photo: Draperly

Use table lamps to introduce colour and texture
When starting to design your space, texture and colour are key ways to put your unique style into a home. As well as providing a lovely layer of warm, atmospheric lighting in a room, well-chosen table lamps can also bring a pop of colour and texture whether they’re on or not!

In the room below, the scallop jute Soffle lampshade paired with a textured base creates a striking look which provides drama and contrast against the neutral backdrop of the room.

Soffle lamp shade

Spend more on versatile furniture pieces
The downside of rentals is that you’re often moving from one to the next, and for this you need versatile furniture pieces that work in any space. Sophie’s top tip is to choose pieces that will work hard for you. Think coffee tables that have heaps of storage, ottomans that can double as toy chests, or sofa sets that work well together or great separately as a sofa and occasional chairs. 

west elm coffee table
A storage coffee table, like this one from West Elm, is a great idea for small spaces.

Create a reading nook with a floor lamp
Floor lamps add height and elegance to a room, and they’re also great for dividing spaces up and creating different zones such as a reading nook. You can make these cosy corners with soft materials and a fabric lampshade, like this reading nook by Sophie, featuring Soffle’s extra-large scallop lampshade. 

We love this Soffle Scallop lamp shade

Change up your lampshade for a quick transformation
Lampshades are an easy, effective, fun (and affordable) way of quickly styling up a room. As well as complementing an existing design theme, they can also be a way of introducing bold new colours, patterns, materials and textures. 

During the summer months, choose bright colours and linen textures to freshen up your look and during the cooler months opt for dark greens, blues and heavy textures to anchor your space and add warmth.

The Soffle scallop lamp shade below, in duck egg blue, sets off the hues for the rest of the room decor below. It creates a lovely, relaxing harmonious vibe while still hogging plenty of limelight for itself.

The brainchild and nickname of founder Sophie, Soffle offers a slice of Australian design that’s committed to doing good. Soffle works in partnership with SolarBuddy, and for every lamp purchased, they’ll donate $5 towards a solar light a child can use to light up their home with brightness and comfort. SolarBuddy works with children all around the world who don’t have access to this much-needed essential.

After trawling the Australian market in vain looking for beautiful, modern and affordable light solutions, Sophie took matters into her own hands. Soffle was created for like minded people who love the sense of warmth and welcome a well placed light can create.  

Shop Soffle online

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Design House Tours Interiors Addict Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Luxury lakeside living on NSW South Coast: A fab reno

The team behind this gorgeous Wollongong Art Deco home renovation is back with a similar makeover on the shores of Lake Conjola on the NSW South Coast. Lumiere Lakes is a stylish three-bedroom holiday home on the water’s edge owned by Zoe and Dane Cartwright of Illawarra’s Projection Build who modelled the design on their permanent residence with Sherson Architecture at the helm.

“We wanted to create the ideal coastal getaway – a place for friends and family to gather and enjoy the beautiful waterfront location. It’s light-filled, calm resort style living and is the dream home away from home,” says Zoe. 

Dining room
Dining room. The walls are painted with Dulux Vivid White and warm engineered timber flooring complements.

The home’s neutral palette and tranquil feel bears more than a passing sartorial nod to cult holiday destinations like Byron Bay’s Raes on Wategos and Brisbane’s The Calile Hotel. “The home features coastal Moroccan elements with modern functionality and each inclusion was chosen to make holiday living effortless and enjoyable,” says Zoe.

Lounge
Lounge

The home sleeps 10 guests across its three bedrooms – there’s a master bedroom with ensuite, another large bedroom and a custom bunk room that features two double beds and two single beds designed to sleep children from two families.

Bedroom
Bedroom
Bunk room
Bunk room

The kitchen features Organic White Caesarstone benchtops, travertine tiles and Navurban Balmoral timber veneer joinery that hides a variety of integrated appliances. The space is also home to a stylish butler’s pantry that is accessed through an elegant arch threshold.

Kitchen
Kitchen
Butler's kitchen
Butler’s pantry

The bathrooms feature Caesarstone benchtops (again in Organic White) as well as timber veneer cupboard fronts (Navurban Balmoral) as well as tiles by Inigo Jones and Co, tapware by ABI Interiors and Bjorn oval mirrors.

Ensuite
Ensuite
Ensuite
Ensuite

Nestled on a long 809 square metre block, the home features a multitude of entertaining spaces including two entertaining decks that step down to the water – a fire pit completes the space and ensures the outdoors can be used year-round. “My favourite feature of the home is the crazy pave floor finish that surrounds the fire pit space that overlooks the manicured reserve and water’s edge of Lake Conjola,” says Zoe of the area that features an outdoor entertaining kitchen too.

The gorgeous deck
The tranquil outdoor entertaining space
Outdoor firepit
Outdoor fire pit

“We wanted somewhere low maintenance that could be easily rented on the holiday property market whilst we weren’t using it. It’s built to entertain and host like a private, secluded waterfront resort.”

Photography: Nat Spadavecia, The Palm Co

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Design Homewares Interiors Addict Kids Rooms Shopping Styling

The best new interior finds for kids + designer chair giveaway!

From bed linen to furniture, there’s always something new to discover within the kids’ interior scene. And this month, not only are we bringing you the latest children’s interior finds but we’ve also got a fabulous giveaway. Il Tutto’s bouclé recliner is the perfect addition to any chic nursery space – scroll down to go into the draw.

Ailanto Design: A collaboration between Amanda Ferragamo and the recently profiled Australian interior designer Keeley Green, Ailanto Design is a purveyor of luxury hand-designed wallpaper, fabrics and homewares for children’s rooms. All of the brand’s whimsical designs are hand-drawn by Amanda who draws on her extensive travels and family life in Italy for artistic inspiration.

Ailanto
Ailanto Design Angkor Wat wallpaper in apricot and Broad Not Bored fabric
Ailanto
Ailanto Design Cottontail wallpaper and Stripe Me Skinny fabric
Ailanto
Ailanto Design Woodland Squirrel fabric wallpaper and Stripe Me Skinny fabric

Il Tutto Paige glider recliner chair in vanilla bouclé: Il Tutto’s popular Paige recliner chair is back but this time it’s wrapped in a luxe, on-trend vanilla bouclé fabric. The chair fully reclines, boasts a high backrest and armrests positioned at the correct height for relief while breast or bottle feeding your baby. The chair retails for $889 but scroll down for your chance to win one for your nursery, or even elsewhere in your home if you don’t have a baby (it sure is stylish enough!).

Il Tutto
Il Tutto Paige chair

Lorena Canals rugs: Available locally from Momy Decor, the Spanish designer Lorena Canals has been a trendsetter in the children’s home decor market ever since she created the washable rug concept. The range is brimming with fabulous designs that are practical, cosy and lightweight so that you can easily move them around.

Momy decor rug
Kaarol washable rug, $428.
Momy Decor rug
Tropical Green washable rug, $438

Linen House Kids: The new range of children’s bedding at Linen House is rather fun and many of the designs are reversible meaning you get two looks for the price of one! With something for every child’s room there’s large spots, hearts, bears and bunnies as well as large, bold checks and more.

Linen House bedding
Roundabout quilt cover set, from $159.99.
Linen House bedding
I Heart You quilt cover set, from $159.99.

Rockabye River play mat: Eco-friendly, biodegradable, certified non-toxic, extra thick, durable, easy clean and waterproof this Australian owned and designed range of play mats are also super cute and fully reversible. 200cm x 140cm. $189.95.

Rockabye River mat
Savannah/Outback play mat
Play mat
Our Journey Home/Reef play mat
Rockabye River playmat
Savannah/Outback play mat

The winner was Kate Bowles from VIC.

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Expert Tips Styling

Add warmth and energy in your home with terracotta accents

Terracotta, with its earthy and rustic notes, can embrace a home like a warm hug. From subtle hints seen in soft furnishings to statement pieces in the landscaping, terracotta can create an impression at every turn.

According to Henley interior designer, Breahna Harry, introducing terracotta into your home is a great way of creating an inviting environment with a sense of warmth and energy. 

Dabble with texture

Texture is your best friend with terracotta. Selecting fixed materials such as natural exposed bricks, matt tiles with a raw edge or rough stone benchtops in terracotta tones are perfect ways of incorporating it into your colour palette. 

Don’t be scared of utilising terracotta through fixed materials, have fun with it! You can always use it in small amounts such as decorative wall tiles in the laundry or your kitchen splashback to keep it minimal.

Alternatively, you can incorporate it into your home through décor items. Think décor cushions and throw blankets made from natural materials such as linen in the warmer months to keep it light and airy, and chunky wool knits in the cooler months to create a cosy atmosphere.

Handmade pottery items with organic curves such as vases, jugs, servingware and indoor/outdoor pots also go a long way to creating a naturally relaxed environment.

Terracotta pairings

To achieve terracotta as the standout feature colour in a space, pairing it with subtle warm whites will work well.

For those who are looking to create a bold space, use a peacock as your inspiration. Yes, a peacock. The typical ‘peacock colours’ of beautiful deep blues, greens and purples are the perfect colours to compliment terracotta.

Connecting with nature

Terracotta hues surround us daily through nature: sunrises, sunsets, autumn leaves, the Australian outback, the list is endless. Incorporating a colour of nature such as terracotta into a space creates a natural, earthy atmosphere. 

If you love the idea of creating a warm, grounded home then adding terracotta through your home is a great option.

Henley is one of Australia’s leading home builders and has built over 50,000 homes Australia-wide including Victoria, Queensland, NSW and SA. All images are from Henley display homes.

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

1980’s arch inspires amazing apartment before and after

When interior designer Kathryn Trentini bought this 1980’s Port Macquarie villa she saw a lot of potential and was particularly inspired by its original archway design. “I loved that the arch was still there, and it really represents that era. I feel like they were trying to be a bit fancy with that arch!” So Kathryn instead focused on this one feature and sought to infuse a modern interpretation of the 80’s aesthetic throughout the renovation.

BEFORE lounge
BEFORE lounge room
AFTER lounge room
AFTER lounge room

One of a row of four red brick villas, Kathryn originally intended to renovate the property and find a long-term tenant but changed her mind when a friend suggested she list it on Airbnb. “It is my first foray into the short-term rental space, and I think we’ve managed to celebrate the best of the original spaces while enhancing the home’s features through contemporary material choices and design ideas,” says Kathryn who has named the home Arthouse Villa in a nod to the beautiful original artworks dotted throughout.

BEFORE bedroom
BEFORE bedroom
AFTER bedroom
AFTER bedroom

There was significant space planning involved, especially in the bathroom and kitchen which were both reconfigured to make much better use of the home’s footprint. “The kitchen was u-shaped and had a tiny ledge on one wall that was completely useless. Even though the room was massive, the kitchen was really lacking,” says Kathryn. It’s certainly true that, compared to the 1980’s, we ask so much more of our kitchens these days and that is reflected in the redesign. 

BEFORE kitchen
BEFORE kitchen
AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen

The new galley style kitchen features an integrated fridge, double pantry, oven with combined microwave and dishwasher and it’s also got a mini butler’s pantry where the kettle, toaster and coffee machine are stored. “That’s a great option if you can’t fit a full butler’s and it’s perfect for small apartments or for people that don’t want a whole other space to keep clean,” says Kathryn. One side of the kitchen features tall cabinetry while the other is bench height with an open shelf above. “I loved the idea of being able to display non-kitchen stuff. I see it as an opportunity to add personality,” says Kathryn.

AFTER kitchen
AFTER kitchen

A standout feature, Lo & Co honed marble handles not only link back to the arch but they are super luxe too. “The kitchen finishes are very simple really, but the handles really do add a lovely luxury element that improves the entire aesthetic,” says Kathryn who used them on one wall of cabinets and used an inexpensive painted timber dowel and brass handle on the other.

AFTER handles
AFTER kitchen
BEFORE dining
BEFORE dining
AFTER dining
AFTER dining

The bathroom design was transformed from a classic three-piece set up that included a shower, bath and vanity; Kathryn removed the bath and split the room in half and designed an arch to sit between the two zones. “I wanted something spectacular. Rather than having a vanity with a piece of glass like you would typically see, I was really trying to push myself as a designer. It was costly but it worked out well and the feedback has been great,” says Kathryn.

BEFORE bathroom
BEFORE bathroom
AFTER bathroom
AFTER bathroom
AFTER bathroom
AFTER bathroom. Kathryn sourced the vanity from Reece, wall lights from Beacon, tapware from ABI Interiors and mirror from Bunnings.

“Overall, I’ve had amazing feedback from visitors who say that they really like the unit’s sense of understated luxury. They like that it’s not precious and they feel comfortable here, but it still ticks that luxury box,” says Kathryn.

BEFORE bedroom
BEFORE bedroom
AFTER bedroom
AFTER bedroom

Photographer: Amanda Prior

For more on Trentini Design

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Design Designers House Tours Interiors Addict Interviews Real Renos RENO ADDICT

90’s era abode now bold and fun holiday home

Gemma Peanut. You may know her from her time as a Neighbours actress, but she is now an online photography teacher and one half of parenting podcast We Don’t Have Time for This with her bestie Kate Reeves. Her most recent role has seen her enter the design world through the renovation of her Cabarita Beach holiday house Yo Caba Caba.

Gemma Peanut in her new beach house

Originally built in 1990, the home was relatively untouched when Gemma and her husband purchased it with the intention of using it as a holiday home for themselves as well as listing it on Airbnb. After considered listing it without touching the interiors, the couple decided that it didn’t spark joy in its original state and a fun and colourful renovation ensued. 

“Our house in Sydney is very Zen with a neutral palette that provides a calm backdrop against the chaos of raising small children. I knew I wanted the beach house to be the antithesis of that. It’s loud, fun and joyous,” says Gemma, who used to live in LA and drew inspiration from her visits to Palm Springs when creating the interior. “I love the vivid colours of the 50’s and the furniture shapes of the 70s,” says Gemma.

Bedroom
Bedroom

Armed with myriad Pinterest boards, Gemma came up with the interior concepts and hired a renderer to create drawings of the designs. But with so many ideas she found it difficult to consolidate them and commit – especially when it came to the home’s statement kitchen.

“I was most nervous about the colours. Pink and blue are not your typical kitchen colours  and I was worried that it would look like a bad gender reveal!” She needn’t have worried though – the kitchen’s sorbet tones, curves, retro-inspired tiling and brass pendant light fittings are more than Insta-worthy. “I figured that one of the main reasons people choose an Airbnb over a hotel room is for the kitchen, so I really wanted it to be quite special,” says Gemma of the renovation’s biggest splurge area.

Kitchen
Kitchen
Kitchen
Kitchen

The nearby dining and lounge rooms are furnished with a mix of high and low-end buys; a bargain moss green Early Settler sofa sits alongside a more expensive leather one while a McMullin & Co coffee table sits atop an affordable Miss Amara Rug. “One of the biggest splurges would be the Balmy Studios table in the dining room but we bought a lot of affordable buys from Temple & Webster too,” says Gemma.

Lounge room
Lounge room

While wallpaper features throughout the home it’s at its most effective in the bedrooms where it’s paired with custom bedheads from Land Home. “The bedheads were my favourite purchase as I got to choose all the fabrics for them and they really elevate the rooms,” says Gemma who sourced bed linen from a variety of sources including Target and Bonnie and Neil.

Bedroom
Anna Spiro wallpaper features in this bedroom

Unsurprisingly, the renovation has proven a success and the home has been solidly booked all summer. Gemma stayed in the home during the renovation, but her husband hasn’t even slept there yet! “We’re really excited about staying there in March,” says Gemma.

Alfresco
Alfresco
Pool
Pool

“I’m not an interior designer so I just chose what I liked and followed my gut. Ultimately this home has been an opportunity to explore my alter ego – it allowed me to do things that I wouldn’t normally do.”

Photography: Tanika Blair

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Recipes

Foodie Friday: Confit salmon with preserved lemon & pomegranate

This week’s fish recipe is from celebrity chef and Tassal ambassador, Guy Turland.

  • 300 gm Tassel Fresh Tassie Salmon (skin on fillet)
  • Half cup preserved lemon juice (from jar)
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp fennel seeds
  • 300 ml olive oil
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp peppercorns
  • 1 chilli
  • 2 garlic cloves (pressed)

Salsa

  • 1 preserved lemon (roughly chopped)
  • Seeds from one pomegranate
  • 1 avocado (diced)
  • juice and rind of one lemon
  • Quarter cup parsley (roughly chopped)
  • Quarter cup mint (roughly chopped )
  1. Preheat oven to 150°C and place salmon portions on a wide shallow plate. Combine preserved lemon juice, sugar and fennel seeds in a separate bowl. Pour mixture over the salmon and rub generously into each fillet.

  2. Refrigerate the salmon for at least 30 minutes. Remove from the fridge, rinse your salmon with water and pat dry with a paper towel.

  3. Place your salmon on a clean baking tray or in a large pot. Top salmon with lemon rind, chilli, peppercorn and garlic cloves. Cover with olive oil to completely submerge the salmon.

  4. Place in oven and lower heat to 90°C. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cooked through or to your liking.

  5. Meanwhile, prepare your salsa by combining preserved lemon, avocado, pomegranate, mint, parsley, lemon juice and lemon rind in a bowl.

  6. Gently remove the salmon from the oven, liing each fillet from the tray with a large slotted spatula. Allow excess oil to drip off and place on a serving platter. Scatter salmon with salsa and serve.