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
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!
BathroomBathroom
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.
Inside the master bedroom’s dreamy 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
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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A drab bathroom can be more depressing than a wet flannel, but with a few stylish touches, your bathroom could end up being the sexiest room in the house! The Block winners turned interior designers, Alisa and Lysandra Fraser, have designed some gorgeous bathroom sanctuaries – BUT they don’t forget to emphasise the important role that styling plays!
“You can have great fixtures, however if the space is being cluttered up with thread-bare towels, ugly bottles and wilting plants then what’s the point?” says Alisa. “Get the basics right but also don’t forget to polish the look for a really luxe feel.”
Albert Park project by Alisa and Lysandra Fraser
The reno queens share their top bathroom tips below:
A good layout is key
Make sure you nail the layout of your bathroom so the space is both functional and stylish. It is important to establish the purpose and the vision behind this space, and design other structural elements before picking the final features. Consider early on what’s at the top of your wish list – visual aesthetics, functionality or storage. It may well be that all three are important but understanding what you value more will help you design a bathroom that meets your needs.
Choose fancy design features
One way to “trick up” a bathroom is to invest in key design features that are sure to impress visually and will create a luxurious look. Bathrooms that aren’t particularly spacious crave more aesthetic attention in order to create a balanced illusion that enhances luxury and naturally diminishes the perceived lack of space. So feel free to make more ‘bespoke’ and ‘exclusive’ choices with tiles, gold tapware, decorative lighting, vanities and other fixtures.
Accessorise well for extra styling cred
The right styling with accessories can really bring out the luxury and complete the look. A bathroom won’t look complete without a few well-chosen items such as rolled up plush towels, soy candles with seductive fragrances and green foliage. Another tip is to choose a gorgeous hand wash in a nice bottle. We decided to create our own range, al.ive body, when we couldn’t find anything which fit the bill when styling houses. They’re a naturally derived hand/body wash and hand/body lotion, in a choice of three luxurious scents, that come in on-trend coloured bottles.
Make sure there’s good storage
Storage is one buzzword we can’t get enough of and is an essential aspect to consider when designing your bathroom. This is particular important if you are working with a smaller space – you don’t want to risk having your bathroom looking cluttered and messy! Rather than using plain mirrors, we love the addition of shallow storage mirror cabinets, which can be custom designed or ready to buy. This contemporary storage solution is the best way to keep vanity countertops seamless and clutter-free from cosmetics.
Take the stress out of your vanity
The bathroom is supposed to be a serene place that’s full of calm. The last thing you need is a chaotic morning rifling through drawers desperately trying to find a lipstick when you’re running late for work! When it comes to your vanity, rather than investing in three deep drawers, opt for five shallow drawers instead. This provides space efficiency and will help compartmentalise your items with ease and within quick reach so you don’t stress out!
Alisa & Lysandra: The Block twins style a family home
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We’re currently experiencing a cable outage at Interiors Addict HQ! In short, some live wires came crashing down across the road outside in Friday night’s storms and although we’re nearly back to normal, we couldn’t tune into The Block last night! So, today’s write-up comes courtesy of our friends at The Block Shop! And as I still haven’t watched, I’d love you to tell me what the rooms were really like and which you thought should have won!
Mitch and Mark / Alisa and Lysandra: LAST PLACE Score: 27/30
Mitch and Mark – with the help of Block all stars Alisa and Lysandra, managed to create a simply stunning room this week, despite the fact they flipped the architect’s plans again, changing the space to become a huge master suite, complete with walk-in robe and ensuite, connected via a private corridor.
“This room is the grand statement of what we’ve done. The master bedroom is the owner’s sanctuary,” Mitch said ahead of reveal.
The judges loved what they did – especially their statement ceiling, complete with that amazing pendant light.
Tess and Luke / Josh and Elyse: JOINT THIRD PLACE Score: 28.5
Queenslanders Tess and Luke paired with previous Block champs Josh and Elyse, whose understated and chic fingerprints were all over this stunning, pared back “Scan-deco” guest bedroom.
The hero of the room was undoubtedly that beautiful wooden feature wall, which worked beautifully with the dressed bed in blush pinks and greys, the dark grey walls, light grey fitted robes, study nook with wire-framed chair, and the beautiful suede ottoman at the foot of the bed.
Deb and Andy / Josh and Jenna: FIRST PLACE Score: 29.5
Deb and Andy – with help from Block mega-champs Josh and Jenna – went all out this week to present a stunning guest bedroom. And they were rewarded with a win! Courtesy of that controversial bonus point.
As Deb explained, this week the couple from country New South Wales were attempting to “not just create a look, but also a feeling.” And they certainly did that – the judges fell in love with their simple yet sophisticated guest bedroom space.
El’ise and Matt / Ronnie and Georgia: SECOND PLACE Score: 29
The addition of Perth super champs Ronnie and Georgia really spurred this year’s Western Australian contestants on this week, and they stepped up their game to reveal a simply stunning guest bedroom. This week the couple effectively created a second master, choosing to add AM and PM wardrobes and a connecting ensuite, giving their house the option of a second main bedroom space.
And it was a master stroke – almost winning them the week, if Andy and Deb hadn’t used their pesky bonus point!
The judges loved their room, which featured that bold, art-inspired Graffico feature wall, blush pink walls, a burgundy bed styled in greys and greens, marble side bench, soft, grey occasional chair and circular side tables. A black grid-formation mirror, black wardrobes and black details on the furniture tied everything together, making a dramatic, opulent and sumptuous guest bedroom that the judges liked a great deal.
Jesse and Mel / Deanne and Darren: JOINT THIRD PLACE Score: 28.5
Jesse and Mel, along with their all star teamsters Dee and Daz, presented a beautiful guest bedroom, which, as Jesse explained, was all about “effortless luxury.” They included a recessed slate-grey velvet bedhead, which complimented the blush pink linen, the dark-coloured wardrobes, that large circular floor rug, the round side tables, and simple brass wall sconces.
Tasked with creating the interiors for Mirvac’s latest display home (the ‘Banksia’ in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburb of Waverley Park), ex Blockheads Alisa and Lysandra Fraser have combined layers of texture and sophisticated colour to create timeless yet accessible spaces.
Lounge room
Dining room
With a young family audience in mind, the twins ensured the home was styled in a practical way with room to evolve with the changing needs of a family. “When designing a home, you have to consider how you plan on using the space, both now and in the future. It’s also important to blend timeless, sophisticated pieces with on-trend elements, allowing a home to remain stylish for years to come with flexible accents and layers that are easy and affordable to replace,” says Lysandra.
Kitchen
Landing
The furniture throughout was sourced from GlobeWest and Coco Republic with homewares found at Adairs, IKEA, Provincial Home Living and Kmart. The home also features custom rugs and artwork from the twins’ own collection including a gorgeous set of prints in the children’s room.
Children’s room – the prints above the bed are available on the twins’ website
Colour plays an important role throughout with dramatic shades of navy and teal tempered by warm grey and charcoal. “This gives the home a welcoming feel that creates an inspired and cosy family haven, with luxurious touches such as brushed gold throughout. The soft blush tones in the living room combined with plenty of greenery adds a feminine feel also,” says Alisa.
Guest bedroom
As for their favourite part of the home, they are both enamoured with the master bedroom – a luxurious space. “This room has some special pieces such as Taj Maroc bone mirrors and a stunning occasional chair from GlobeWest that capture your attention when entering the room, together with a contemporary custom artwork, and large feature lamps from Coco Republic,” says Lysandra.
Former Block luminaries and twins Alisa and Lysandra have been busy of late working on a gorgeous renovation and extension in the Melbourne suburb of Albert Park. Set over three levels, this 1890 Victorian terrace straddles the line between old and new with aplomb.
Kitchen and living
Kitchen
“We wanted to pay homage to the era of the home whilst introducing a contemporary design to the home that had continuity throughout. We kept the original features in the first section of the house, which includes the hallway and master bedroom, with decorative cornicing, skirting and ceiling roses, and we opted for a more urban-contemporary style for the new section of the house. We used the same timber flooring throughout which definitely helped us achieve a seamless transition from old to new,” says Lysandra.
The front of the home
“As we wanted to preserve some of the heritage and history of the terrace we painstakingly restored the front of the house. Each brick was repointed and restored, and we rebuilt the front fence exactly how it would have originally been built,” says Lysandra.
Main bathroom
The home’s ground level features an open plan living, dining and kitchen as well as a master bedroom, walk-in-robe and ensuite. And while the home has a fairly moody colour palette, it also boasts subtle brass details that elevate it to something quite special.
Master bedroom
“We gave great consideration to every single design detail in each room. There is a fine line between overthinking and in turn overdoing design features. The key is to make each design feature subtle and let them blend into one another. If you look at each space individually, you will notice we have added a feature into each component,” says Lysandra.
Ensuite
The sumptuous master bedroom features plenty of thoughtful design. “The master bedroom features brass inlay where the carpet meets the timber flooring and in the walk-in-robe we added brass uprights for a touch of luxury. In the ensuite, we opted for large format slab tiles to make the room appear like it is cladded in stone,” says Lysandra.
Walk-in robe
“When it came to the kitchen, we played around with 100 different designs as we wanted to design something you had not seen before. Even though it is very subtle, we love the brass legs we added to the island bench to make it appear like it was floating,” says Lysandra.
The bespoke mirror above the dining room banquette seating enlarges the space
The kitchen banquette seating and mirror are certainly a design highlight and mirrors have been used to great effect throughout the home. “Mirrors are definitely a dark horse when it comes to the styling of a room. They are so versatile as they come in many shapes and sizes and can fit with most colours and styles. Mirrors can also create the illusion of space, as well as play off natural light bringing warmth to the room. The mirror we featured in the dining area was custom designed by us as we really wanted to reflect the natural environment outside into the living and dining area,” says Lysandra.
The backyard
The upper level features a second living room, two bedrooms, main bathroom and terrace while the underground level is home to a fabulous cellar, cinema room and powder room.
The upper level boasts a second living area that leads to a terrace
The upstairs terrace
Second bedroom
Third bedroom
“The cellar is definitely a stand out in this project, and something that took a lot of time and energy, but it was all well worth it. The entire cellar had to be dug out and engineered, which required lots of planning, late nights and we couldn’t have done it without the right trades. We are really proud of this space as we think it really does highlight the attention to detail that has been put into this renovation and executed throughout the property,” says Lysandra.
When renovating, it’s important to choose updates that will not only stand the test of time, but will also increase the value of your home if you sell or re-finance.
Interior designers and renovators Alisa and Lysandra Fraser say if money’s tight, fortunately, you can make a number of relatively easy budget-friendly renovations which have maximum appeal to future buyers, or score you a good valuation if you want to re-finance.
The identical twins, who won The Block: Sky High in 2013 and defended their title on The Block: Fans vs Faves in 2014, now run their own business Alisa and Lysandra Interiors. The pair are currently redeveloping a $2.2million Victorian terrace site in the highly sought-after area of Albert Park in Melbourne and are filming the project for their new online TV URL channel.
“It’s been a lot of work, but we’ve been thrilled with the results so far,” says Alisa. “We can’t wait to share the results with everyone as we’ve really enjoyed putting our stamp on every aspect of a huge project. We’re honouring the classic style of the existing home whilst adding on a contemporary extension with high quality, hand-picked materials and finishes.”
Here, Alisa shares her top tips for money-making renos:
The Kitchen – improve storage and functionality
Streamline: When you renovate a kitchen, the goal is often to create more space and increase functionality. Look at your design and assess whether or not your kitchen allows for remodelling with the current cabinetry. In most cases we recommend you start from scratch so invest in new cabinetry, improved layout, and new finishes which won’t age.
Think social: Embrace designs and layouts with ample storage, which will help minimise clutter, and cleaning.
Choose integrated storage and workstations: This creates flow and cohesion and ensures appliances don’t dominate the aesthetic. Built-in sink colanders and chopping boards, are considered a must. Not only are they functional, but they add visual appeal and textural variation.
The bathroom – add the right vanity and decrease clutter
Consider the space: The most important question here is “how will you use it?” Other than accounting for hygiene needs, it’s important to establish the vision behind this space before you pick tiles, tap-ware and other structural elements.
Choose the right vanity: It’s important to remember deep drawers aren’t always the most functional. Rather than three deep drawers, opt for a vanity with five shallow drawers which will keep your personal items visible and within quick reach.
Add aesthetic storage: Rather than using plain mirrors for the vanity, we love the addition of shallow storage mirror cabinets, which can be custom designed or ready to buy. This is the best way to keep vanity countertops seamless and clutter-free from cosmetics.
Painting the interior – think white or neutral
Know your whites: Choosing to paint you walls crisp white is always the safest option with the widest appeal. But with over 180 shades of white paint available, choosing the right shade can be confusing. Cool whites have a blue or black base added and are ideal for neutralising bright modern rooms. Warm whites have a yellow undertone that can make a room feel cosier, and work well with classic interiors.
Neutrals are not boring: Neutral walls also have general appeal. You can go three shades darker or more, which will add to your homes’ visual appeal. Neutrals never stop trending and offer you maximum flexibility with redecorating or freshening up your interiors later down the track.
Feature walls: The days of random feature walls are long gone however if you’re still keen for a splash of bolder colour, highlight a wall that features intricate architecture, a fireplace, or a hideaway nook.
Landscaping the front and backyard – curb appeal and decks are winners
Invest in a deck: Outdoor entertaining decks are now wildly popular, but rather than tiling or patching up old paving, choose a wooden deck for instant warmth and the illusion of space.
Embrace green foliage: Plants with large green foliage have massive architectural appeal and can balance out your space nicely, especially when it comes to dressing up empty corners. When choosing plants for your garden, don’t be afraid to embrace repetition. A row of screening bamboo, or a wall of birds of paradise can add that streamlined look which can be calming and look amazing.
Add some curb appeal: First impressions count, so make sure your front yard works in harmony with the entry to your home. Coordinate pathways, plants, and colours so they all work together with great balance, making your facade a true show-stopper!
Flooring – hardwearing and natural choices
Keep it simple: Natural floors add incredible warmth in a home. Keep your flooring simple and single-minded. Our home designs embrace timber floorboards throughout, which we then dress with beautiful artisan rugs creating interesting visual layers that add to the overall decor.
Make it durable: Hardwood and concrete floors truly stand the test of time and in most cases they age wonderfully as opposed to carpet which can get damaged easily and may fade or change colour due to wear.
Painting the exterior of your home
Check the structural integrity before you paint: Never paint an exterior that’s clearly deteriorating; you may achieve a pleasant result but that will only be temporary as the exterior will most certainly continue to deteriorate!
Restore the exterior of a period home: You can add colour touches to the exterior of a period home, but you should never paint over intricate stone work. If the exterior masonry is looking dull, or dirty, clean it carefully but don’t paint over it.
Monochromatic and contrasting combinations are winners: Embrace hues that have a visual punch. Intensely dark grey or anthracite hues, marry well with bright white trims and the contrast is delightful to the eye. But unless there’s a significant element of your architecture that needs to be the show-stopper, avoid matchy-matchy hues, which can come across as too safe and uninspiring!
You love them on The Block and then suddenly auction day comes and goes and they’re out of your life. However, while some contestants go back to their pre-Block life, others harness their new love of design and decide to give a job as a stylist, designer, builder or TV star a red-hot go! Below are the contestants doing just that.
Dan and Dani: Dorcas Street, South Melbourne (2012) and All Stars (2013)
Following on from their successes on The Block, Dani Wales said goodbye to her career in finance and founded interiors blog and e-commerce site Basic Habitat. She also returned to TV as the co-host on home and lifestyle series, Healthy Homes TV Australia. Meanwhile, Dan ‘Foredan’ Reilly upscaled his carpentry qualifications and is now a qualified Master Builder. For the past two seasons of The Block, he has worked alongside Keith as an assistant foreman. Dan and Dani have also recently launched design and construction company Red Door Project and have almost completed a two–year long renovation project in Melbourne’s Inner West.
Josh and Jenna: Cameron Street, Richmond (2011) and All Stars (2013)
Since being on The Block, plumber Josh Densten and wife and hairdresser Jenna, have found a true passion for renovation, in particular interior styling and decorating. Jenna has completed a Diploma of Interior Design & Decoration at RMIT and in partnership with Josh, has renovated and built a handful of properties. They have also started their own style and design business Bicker Design Co., the name stemming from their trademark of bickering whilst on the The Block! They are currently ambassadors for Beacon Lighting where they launched the Josh and Jenna Range of lights and earlier this year featured on new renovation show, Reno Rumble.
Alisa and Lysandra: Sky High (2013) and Fans Vs Faves (2014)
After a successful career in the police force, Alisa and Lysandra Fraser hung up their handcuffs for the pursuit of their dream, which kick-started with their appearance and winning success on the The Block. They now have a successful interior design business, are resident experts on our sister site Reno Addict and have collaborated with Grafico on a wallpaper range, United Artworks on an artwork range and Forty Winks on a bedroom range.
Shay and Dean: Blocktagon (2015)
After their recent win on The Block, Shay and Dean Paine have launched the fresh and innovative design brand The Wild Creatives. Featuring an online shop and a range of interior design consultancy options, we’re confident this is only the beginning for the duo.
Bec and George: Sky High (2013)
Since filming wrapped up Bec and George Douros certainly haven’t put down the hammer and nails. Bec completed studying at the International Institute of Home Staging and launched both Empire of Style, an interior design and consulting business, and blog Bec Marks The Spot, where she draws on her former life working in the beauty industry as well as her current life as a mini real estate mogul with husband George, who has been busy building and developing properties. The couple have also recently been appointed the first ever ambassadors for Melbourne based construction company Nostra Homes and style ambassadors for Australia’s leading homewares brand Adairs.
Kyal and Kara: Fans vs Faves (2014)
Now running their own construction, renovation and styling business, Diverse Design and Construct, qualified carpenter Kyal Demmrich and his wife, physiotherapist and style-guru Kara help transform clients’ visions into a beautiful and practical reality. They are also brand ambassadors for leading tile manufacturer Beaumont Tiles and clothing brand Bisley Workwear and starred in this year’s debut season of Reno Rumble.
Matt and Kim: Sky High (2013)
After appearing on The Block, plasterer turned architecture student Matt Di Costa and teacher Kim Owen got straight into designing and project managing a Perth build. Since then they’ve gone on to design many other projects, landed their own TV show Matt and Kim to the Rescue (exclusively shown in Perth) and Matt also launched polished plastering business, Sky High Renders, for archirectural wall finishes and polished concrete custom furniture. They also gave The Block another crack, however got eliminated in the first round of The Block Triple Threat.
Simon and Shannon: Glasshouse (2014)
With the The Block win under their belt Simon and Shannon Vos have remained busy. Builder, plumber and site foreman Simon opened his business VOSA, where he offers a complete start to finish service, from interiors to building and everything in between. Meanwhile Shannon has been studying interior design and now runs Vos Creative, where he provides interior design services, consulting and even writing. However, for those hoping to see them together again never fear, there are talks for a TV show!
Michael and Carlene: Glasshouse (2014)
After achieving the most number of room wins Michael and Carlene Duffy were destined to keep renovating. They founded Cedar & Suede, a design and construction service and candid renovation and design blog with video focus and also appeared in the inaugural season of Reno Rumble. They now have partnered with DecoRug, Homeworld Helensvale, Dri.Glo, Domain, and Open Colleges in a range of capacities.
They were on The Block, twice. Then they started an interior design firm and an online shop. Then (gosh, I’m getting tired just listing it!) they designed a bedroom suite and an artwork range. And now, twins Alisa and Lysandra, in collaboration with Grafico, are launching a collection of children’s wallpaper.
Their new wallpaper collection evokes happiness and excitement through vivacious hues and patterns that are playful yet understated. Deviating from conventional children’s colour palettes, the collection introduces both soft and bold colours. It’s truly a case of: “Move over baby blue, and see you later baby pink!”
“Our new collection embraces fresh, contemporary hues and patterns that both children and parents will love,” explains Alisa. “We choose our design partners carefully based on the quality of their work and their ability to co- create with our vision. Grafico have been great to work with, helping us bring our design ideas to life.”
Set for release in January, the sisters and Grafico have pre-launched the range with a design that premiered on their renovation special Alisa and Lysandra to the Rescue last night. The design featured in the show is also making an appearance in Alisa’s new nursery. Her second child is due in January.
To shop Alisa and Lysandra’s first children’s wallpaper design head to their website.
Renovating your property and preparing it for a sale means you want to add maximum value for the least amount of money. And whilst we’re all familiar with the usual makeover tips, we go a little further, revealing not only what to do but also how to do it so you can get bang for your buck!
Not just a lick of paint but the right colour
We’ve heard it many times over; a lick of paint will do wonders for your makeover. Indeed it will but it is important to know what hues to use to maximise the aesthetic potential of your property.
For exteriors we recommend dark hues because they hide imperfections and can accentuate the architectural appeal of your home. A 1950s oval tin shed that would normally need replacing can look remarkably beautiful painted in a dark exterior colour. For a fresh, contrasting look complete it by replacing old worn out doors and windows with new white ones, and you’ve just saved yourself the cost of a new shed!
Create the illusion of space
For a few hundred dollars, you could be adding thousands to your sale price by knocking down a non-structural wall. Buyers are looking for open, airy spaces and open plan living is on the top of their agenda and lifestyle. Can you knock down the wall that’s joining the living room and the tiny kitchen? Great, go ahead and do it and you’ll reap the rewards at sale time.
A good clean up of the garden is a given, but a good prune is something most sellers don’t pay attention to. How do you feel when you get your haircut? Exactly our point!
We recommend pruning your trees and plants and giving them a generous ‘haircut’ at least eight weeks before sale time. This will not only aid your garden clean up but will help promote new growth just in time for your sale, making everything look vibrant and lush. Selling in a hurry? Get rid of any leggy growth or dead wood and tip prune your plants for an equally effective result.
Front door appeal
Much like dating, first impressions count and you’ll have potential buyers saying: “You had me at hello!” if you put a little more love and attention into your front door area.
Start by eliminating any clutter from your entrance to allow the energy to flow through your front door (this is a feng shui must). Make sure your front door is functional and in perfect working order. Rust on screen doors is a turn off for buyers and so are wooden doors that have had extended exposure to harsh elements like sand, wind and sun.
Repair or and repaint immediately and why not have some fun updating your front door with a fresh new colour. For as little as $80 and an afternoon’s labour you could be adding a few thousand dollars to your sale price.
Add the shiny things
Let’s face it, people are like magpies; they are attracted to shiny things!
Add some affordable bling to your home by replacing your old worn out taps with shiny, new chrome ones. Replace a plain tiled feature wall with contemporary tiles that offer textural reflection and lustre. Light switch panels can tend to go yellow over time, replace them with new ones or even opt for a completely new and contemporary light switch panel. Adding large inexpensive mirrors to bring in the light will also amplify your interiors. Finally, finish off by styling your property with luxe accessories which you can take with you after the sale, like copper, mirror, glass or chrome vases, trays and floor lamps.
Change buyers’ perceived value of your property
Small cracks, dents and damages that you think may not be noticed can in fact play a major role at sale time. As your potential buyers inspect the property these insignificant imperfections, although not major, can still be noticed subconsciously therefore shaping any buyers’ perceived value of what your property is worth. Attention to detail is a must, so make sure that during the makeover you inspect your property with fresh eyes just like your buyer will.
Flooring rule: less is more
With flooring always remember that less is more. Strip back that aged carpet to reveal the natural wooden floor boards underneath; not only will it freshen up your interiors but it will also create the illusion of space by having one type of flooring seamlessly featured throughout the entire home. If you are replacing your flooring opt for simple floorboards, or carpet (if you must). Unless it’s a bespoke property with exceptional quality materials, your flooring should never be the showstopper!
Ask a professional
For the affordable investment of a consultation session, you can have all the guesswork removed and save hours of laborious planning if you get the advice of a professional. Makeover blind spots are easy to miss, but with a pair of fresh, expert eyes you can be on your way to maximising the value of your property.
When Alisa and Lysandra Fraser first popped onto our screens some two years ago I was well and truly in my Block obsession prime. I loved everything about the show and everything about the twins (especially their sassiness!). In fact the level of enthusiasm was so high that when I visited their series of The Block there was some real real emotion. Not tears, but very watery eyes.
Now, a few years on, I can say I’m older, wiser and less emotionally invested in reality TV. However, they still hold a special place in my heart. So when I heard about their latest venture, an exclusive artwork range in partnership with United Artworks, I was very excited.
Hear what the twins have to say about it…
Designed and produced in Australia, the range features both graphic and photographic designs, inspired by the grandeur and abundance of nature. “This collection is moody, raw and very ethereal,” explains Alisa. “It features a series of visually powerful prints that create aesthetic polarities and perfectly balance masculine and feminine tones and textures through the colour palette of nature.”
With the range representative of Alisa and Lysandra’s styling, the twins were keen to create an artwork collection, believing art to be a vital component to all interiors. “As interior designers we know that our projects become complete when all the finishing touches are in place and this includes artwork, which can deliver enormous emotional power in a space more than homewares or other accessories,” says Lysandra. “We have always wanted to create a collection that will compliment our design style, our colour forecasts and a collection that matches the tone of our work.”
With the artworks available for purchase from today, the sisters have already started brainstorming about future collections. “We are very excited about this collection with United Artworks,” explains Alisa. “They understand our vision and our design philosophy, which is really important in translating our ideas into physical artworks. Also, we’re one step ahead and already collating ideas for subsequent collections that we know our audience will love!”
You could win the print of your choice by entering our competition! Check out our Instagram feed today for more details! Entries close midnight Sydney time on Wednesday 21 October 2015.
From retro and industrial to quirky and pretty, we have a bedside table for every style and every budget!
This Mid-Century Bedside Table ($399) from West Elm borrows its slim legs, angled face and understated retro details from iconic ’50s and ’60s furniture silhouettes. With antique bronze finish knobs for an unexpectedly luxe twist, it is made from FSC-certified wood and is available in three colourways.
I love, love, love the Componibili 3 Round bedside (front left in the image below) and you’ve probably seen it everywhere, with many stores having replicas! However, the original is still surprisingly affordable at $220. Coming in many colours and configurations, the 30-year-old design from Kartell is flexible, functional and practical.
Designed by two of our favourite Blockheads, twins Alisa and Lysandra, the Asta Bedside Table for Forty Winks is Australian made but Scandinavian inspired. Part of a four-piece bedroom suite, but available individually for $749, it combines the rawness of timber with eye-catching rose gold detailing.
Magazine rack-slash-bedside table, the unique Three Legged Magazine Stand features carefully shaped steel plates to create an angle to place magazines, while leaving a flat top surface with enough space for a drink. Available from Urban Couture and coming in both black and white, it retails for $349.
I’m not normally one for bedside tables that don’t have any drawers (I can’t be the only one who accumulates mess that needs to be hidden?!), but if space is at a premium, these Kerr Stools ($289) in rose pink and black are a gorgeous option. Available from Barnaby Lane, they are made from iron and timber.
The MUSKEN Bedside Table from IKEA is a total bargain, costing just $59. Sturdy, practical and working with most interiors, you can also purchase the matching wardrobe and drawers for the full look.
The Swing Table ($279.95) by 6ixty is one-of-a-kind cool, with both colour accents (ash with grey, white, red or yellow) and natural wood tones. Practical too, it features an angled handle for easy moving and two storage drawers. It is available from Zanui.
Made in Melbourne from Tasmanian Oak veneer and a powdercoated tube steel frame (in cloudy blue or soft white), the Oliver Side Table ($499) is minimal and versatile. Available from Hunting for George, there’s also a corresponding bed and bench if you want the whole set.
This shimmery number is sure to make a statement, in either a gorgeous coppery bronze or luxe clear and smoke colour tints. Fitted with three drawers and featuring a classic square front, the Optical Bedside Table from Domayne is a real show stopper. Price available in store or upon request.
Small spaces need great storage and the Rigby Sidetable ($400) from Milkcart delivers in spades. With a narrow footprint, but deep storage, it fits your iPad, magazines and remote with room to spare. Available in matte or gloss white laminate and sustainable timber with a Tassie Oak trim, you can also choose from a silver button, black knob, handmade leather pull or timber handle.
We hope you liked this list. Let us know what you’d add!
They may have been known as The Block’s kitchen and bathroom queens, but twins Alisa and Lysandra Fraser are taking their design flair to another area of the home, creating a four piece bedroom suite exclusively for Forty Winks.
Alisa and Lysandra
“The bedroom is such an integral part of our living and it’s the one room where we spend more than a third of our life resting, sleeping, rejuvenating and connecting,” explains Alisa. “So we were excited to design a bedroom range that marries flexibility, innovation, and our design style!”
Entitled Asta by Alisa and Lysandra, the Scandinavian inspired, Australian made suite features a queen bed, two bedside tables and a tallboy. Combining the rawness of timber mixed with the softness of fabric and the elegance of rose copper, the end result is contemporary, sophisticated and timeless.
“These days more than ever, bedrooms are getting updated every few years,” says Lysandra. “Taking that into consideration we were intentional with designing a bedroom suite that is dateless and incredibly flexible with complementing multiple interiors styles and trends. We offer customers the ability to choose between colours and the option to remove the rose copper element if they wish. The entire bedroom suite can also be adapted for a kids bedroom!”
Veterans when it comes to designing and styling, Asta by Alisa and Lysandra now joins a long list of ventures; with the sisters continuing to run their successful styling business and online shop. So with all this experience, I would be remiss not to ask the newly anointed bedroom queens some decorating advice! “Creating a mood board is important,” explains Alisa. “Start with your hero pieces — your bed and side tables, and then one by one add other stylistic elements such as wall colour, rugs and accessories. Ideally, your bedroom should pass the ‘Sundaymorningtest’. It should entice you to stay in bed until midday, enjoying more than one cup of coffee, reading, listening to music and chilling out. Sure, if you have children that can be a far-fetched dream, but if they want to join you too, you know you have done a great job of styling your bedroom.”
Asta by Alisa and Lysandra is now available at participating Forty Winks stores for a limited time only. For more information.
Renovating? Decorating? Step into your planning shoes and start by crafting a design moodboard. Find out why you need one, and check out our top tips for creating your very own.
Architects, builders and electricians have plans, and so do landscape artists. Why? Because it’s crucial that they visually and structurally illustrate their vision and plans for the job they’re working on.
During a renovation, chances are you have already gathered a whole heap of ideas, either through magazine cut outs, images you’ve googled or even those rough design sketches you drew on that coffee stained serviette when you were out with friends. Feeling bamboozled? It’s time you created a design moodboard.
A design mood board is important because…
It helps you clarify your styling direction
Renovating your bathroom? You probably have a number of design elements you’re attracted to. Consolidating all your ideas will quickly highlight the distinct differences between everything that you like, and the need to make a decision about the direction you will take with designing it. Yes, it is possible to like a hotel style bathroom, and then realise you also love that classic French style look. Your mood board will initially be big, but you will refine it as you go along until you’ve nailed the look and feel you desire for your chosen space.
It helps your trades people work with your vision
Professionals and tradies will love you! People often get lost in translation with verbal explanations, and this also leaves room for misinterpretation and error. A visual explanation of your vision will guarantee you get the result you want and it makes everyone’s life easy!
It saves you money
Collating images of the furniture you like for the space you’re renovating will give you a direct style guide to follow. When the time comes to furnish your room, you will be able to choose from a variety of furniture and price ranges.
A moodboard helps you save money by sticking to your theme and avoiding purchases that don’t work, therefore saving you precious time and money from returns or having to repurchase other items in order to ‘make it work’.
It saves your sanity (and your marriage too)
You started off with one idea, but then it morphed into something else and well into the renovation no one knows what the idea is all about anymore.
A moodboard helps you ‘stick to the plan’
Stick to the plan, and no one gets hurt!
If you’ve never designed a moodboard, use the following tips and tools. It’s time to get creative.
Your moodboard can be physical or virtual, or both.
If you need a platform to collate your ideas, we recommend you use Pinterest. It’s free, it’s loaded with searchable content and ideas, and it allows you to create numerous boards where you pin images you like.
Alongside your virtual moodboard, you may create a physical moodboard. Once you’ve established your style guide, you’re bound to start collecting samples, be it carpet, flooring, paint, or textiles.
Create one big moodboard or start by making smaller ones that individually group styles, colours and materials.
Keeping well organised is key. Always carry your virtual mood board with you; download the Pinterest app on your phone or tablet so you’re completely mobile. Then make sure you organise a space (box or file) where you store all your physical bits and pieces. Your samples may vary in size and weight, from small fabric swatches to large brick samples, tiles or pavers, so a portable trolley bag works wonders with portability without breaking your back.
Creating a design moodboard is the very first step you need to take during your renovation and it’s a lot of fun. A note of warning though; moodboards can be addictive! Still, if you need a little extra help with your vision, always consult with professionals who will ask the right questions to help you create it!
The impact of colour can completely transform your home during a renovation, but with endless colour palettes, how do you begin to choose the right paint colour for your walls? We show you how!
What’s light got to do with it?
Ever walked into a room that was big, white and just too bright? Natural light is a must for beautiful interiors, but if it burns your retina it’s time you tone it down. Before you choose a wall colour, you need to make an assessment of the amount of natural light in your space. If it’s too bright, tone it down with neutral hues; shades of grey, and biscuit will compliment almost any decor and can work well with existing furniture. Small rooms on the other hand, call for light walls to make them feel larger, but choose wisely because not all whites are the same.
How to choose your whites
With over 180 shades of white paint available on the market, choosing the right shade can seem like a laborious task, but don’t fret. First you need to determine if your room calls for a warm white, or cool white. Cool whites have a blue or black base added to them and they are ideal for neutralising bright modern rooms. Warm whites have a yellow undertone that can make a room feel cosier, and work well with more classic interiors; but be cautious, because a white with a heavy yellow or pink base can turn somewhat peachy, and let’s be honest, no one wants to go back to 1992! Our favourite is Vivid White by Dulux.
Jazz up monochromatic interiors
Are you a fan of simple, monochromatic walls? Don’t let others question your colour audacity, because by adding various shades of one hue, you can add a playful depth to your colour scheme.
2015 colour trends
Bringing nature into interiors is expected to be huge this year and the colour spectrum is wide. Living green walls and indoor plants are on trend, and when it comes to paint colour, think rich pine greens, mustard yellows and mineral hues, which will seamlessly introduce a raw earthiness into your space.
If you like light and dark colours in combination, 2015 is the year to marry them up. Embrace charcoal hues with earthy cool whites. Use your darkest colour to accentuate a wall that features artwork, or intricate architecture like an ornate fireplace in a period home.
Craving colour? Vibrant ocean blues, with bright Miami beach pinks and yellows are guaranteed to add brightness and energy to your room. Team these colours with modern, understated, perhaps even more vintage or retro furniture pieces, and accessories such as patterned cushions and throws. Nautical blues featuring bold patterns such as chevron and stripes are also popular and the look can be easily applied outside on a balcony or patio.
For something more punchy and elegant, you can’t go past Marsala; the 2015 Pantone colour of the year. Its’ rich terra rossa colour resembles the soil of Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards so this one’s for the wine lovers. Use shades of Marsala as feature walls, or if it feels too pink, choose a lighter hue of the colour and carry it through with accessories.
Image: Annie Sloan via Interiors Addict
And lastly, grey is the new black; and we love it because it is so versatile. Think dirty denim, comfort, softness, and easy living. Yes, grey can be all that!
Draw colour inspiration from accessories
When choosing a wall colour, draw inspiration from artwork, or other accessories such as throws, rugs or cushions, where you may discover both your main and accent colours. Snap photos, collect samples, or even bring the actual accessories along to the hardware store so you can match the colours. Even if you’re sure you have found your wall colour, it’s a good idea to spend a few dollars on getting sample pots first; then either paint large white cardboard swatches, or add a couple of brush strokes on the wall. Let the paint dry, and inspect in the next 24 hours throughout different times of the day to see how the colour changes with light.
Feature wall dos and don’ts
The days of the random feature wall are long gone, and today’s interiors demand you to be bold, so yes, go ahead and paint the entire room with the colour you love. If you must have a feature wall, ask yourself why you need it in the first place? Feature walls serve as accents, so if that’s what you’re looking for, make sure you are accentuating the right wall. A wall that features intricate architecture, a fireplace, or a hideaway nook, are more deserving of an accent colour, otherwise you might be drawing attention to the wall that hosts your alarm control panel or air conditioner; not much to admire there, is there?
Primed and ready
You’re ecstatic with your choice in wall colour and can’t wait to get started, but before you do, consider priming your walls with a coat or two if they are fairly dark or have a heavy yellow tinge. This is particularly important for bright colours, which need a pure white base so that they can reflect their true brilliance.
If your walls are chalky, give them a good wash before priming with sugar soap; chalky walls indicate that the existing paint has started to deteriorate, which is quite common in 1960s fixer-upper properties.
Reader Natasha says: “I’d like Alisa and Lysandra to help me with a design question. We have a narrow hallway that is accessed as soon as you walk into the house. It’s only just a little wider than a standard single front door entrance and goes for about six metres. We painted it Dulux White on White and we have regular hardwood floorboards. What can we do to decorate the space so it doesn’t just look like a long white hallway?”
Lysandra says: “This hallway is screaming for some pieces of artwork. This is a great way to inject some colour into this rather lifeless space. If you can find a console (around 300mm wide) then that is going to help break up the length of your hallway. Above the console (which you’d obviously place on the lefthand side) you could place a mirror. This will make the space feel wider and will also reflect any natural light, giving the feeling of space.”
Got a question for one of our Resident Experts? Submit it for consideration here.
“A kitchen design is certainly one thing that you need to get right because once it is in, for most of us, we are stuck with it for a long time.” That’s the advice from one half of The Block Sky High’s “kitchen queens” Alisa Fraser. “Spend the time planning and don’t feel pressured into making any decisions that you are not comfortable with. Look at products that are sustainable and will serve you well in years to come. You really need to picture yourself working and living in the space and make a list of things that don’t work in your current space and apply them to your new design.”
Block kitchen queens Alisa and Lysandra Fraser
I couldn’t have put it better myself. Although I personally have never designed a kitchen (the one house I bought had a kitchen I loved just as it was and since I’ve been in Australia I’ve been renting), I’ve certainly pinned enough ‘Dream Home’ photos to Pinterest and given my opinion when asked by numerous friends about theirs. I also happen to hang out with a fair few people in the interiors business (understatement!), so I like to think I have an idea of what makes a good design and what’s in.
Alisa and her twin sister Lysandra won the title of the kitchen queens on the hit renovating show, impressing the judges and the public on both the Sky High and Fans vs. Favourites series. “I think we are good at visualising a space,” Alisa says. We are very conscious of not just choosing a product because it is the latest trend, as we all know that trends come and go so quickly these days. I remember Neale Whitaker commenting on our Fans vs. Favs kitchen and saying that it would still look good in 30 years. And that is the trick! Kitchens are expensive so you don’t want to be changing them every five or so years. It’s also about making the most of a space and utilising every part of it. But most of all, a kitchen needs to be functional and practical.”
SPATIAL PLANNING
Image: Fisher & Paykel
Not everyone has the vision of Alisa and Lysandra. My advice would be to call in a professional, even if you think you know what you want. The reason for this is they do this stuff day in, day out and may well think of things you’d never have thought of. Chances are you’ve gotten very used to living with your space, which can make it hard to visualise it any other way. Most kitchen companies offer free consultations and can whip you up a CAD model of your future kitchen. Seeing it on paper in 3D will really help. They’ll also know about the latest appliances and clever storage options you might not be familiar with. I’m talking pull out pantries, dishwashers or refrigerators in drawers and combination induction and gas cooktops here!
If you feel uncomfortable about having someone in your kitchen or feel like you’ll be given the hard sell, head to your local showroom armed with a simple drawing of your kitchen with measurements. Also mark on it the location of doors, windows, plumbing and anything that can’t be moved.
THE WORK TRIANGLE?
I’m sure you’ve heard of the theory of the work triangle; that is that your stove, fridge and sink should be laid out in a triangle for optimum ergonomics and use of space in the kitchen. Is it relevant in 2014? Probably not. There are many reasons for this, not least that today’s kitchens tend to be open plan, larger and used for many more things. They’re so often the heart of the home. People eat in them, cook in them, do homework in them, and so it goes on.
While it used to be taken as Gospel, Fisher & Paykel reject the traditional notion of the work triangle. Their head of industrial design, Mark Elmore, says: “There are many more advantages to be gained through the use of distributed appliances. Consumers can choose to position modular appliances or combinations of appliances wherever they think they’ll be most useful in the kitchen, entertaining and living spaces.”
Fisher & Paykel’s head of industrial design, Mark Elmore
The work triangle came about off the back of time and motion studies. But today’s kitchens are both individual and more social, says Mark. “Today’s layouts suit a more social, usually open-plan kitchen. And layouts are more ergonomic – ovens are higher in walls and dishwashers and fridges can be distributed to suit your patterns of usage or positioned higher to minimise bending. This concept sees modular appliances, such as Fisher & Paykel’s DishDrawer™ or CoolDrawer™ positioned around the kitchen – or beyond – to suit the way people live.”
Image: Fisher & Paykel
Consideration should be given to which and what style of appliances you’re after at the very beginning of your design process. “When it’s stripped back to its elements, a kitchen is space plus functionality,” Mark says. “How you and your family use your kitchen should determine not just the position of appliances, but also the features you look for.”
BUDGET
It’s a good idea to set one early. So many people go into a kitchen store and for some bizarre reason, are afraid to disclose what they’re willing to spend. Quite frankly, it’s a little ridiculous. These people can help you much better if they understand the sort of money they’re working with. Don’t feel embarrassed that your budget is too low because you can only afford what you can afford. And there is no point quoting more than you intend to spend either. My advice is to be honest with the professionals. They’ll tell you what’s possible within your budget and if you then decide you can find extra money for the marble benchtop or built-in coffee machine you really can’t live without, then so be it. Not being open or honest about your budget is just going to waste everyone’s time.
Mark says, in general, people spend between a quarter and a third of their budget on appliances. “Passionate foodies who demand top performance from their appliances daily, might spend more.” An important point Mark raises is that a new kitchen gives you the opportunity to consider your whole life and design a functional space that responds to your needs.
APPLIANCES: THE BASICS
“The basic appliances every home needs are an oven, cooktop, rangehood, microwave, dishwasher and fridge-freezer. Yet the appliances you select will depend on how you cook,” Mark says. “People who love to bake or cook several meals simultaneously might go for a double oven or an extra large 90cm wide oven. Many people get a premium built-in oven and then supplement it with a combination microwave or steam oven that can be used for a different purpose.”
APPLIANCES: AESTHETICS
“Styling has become increasingly important as the trend of open-plan kitchens continues to grow,” says Mark. “Contemporary styling which works with living spaces is in high demand and if your kitchen is one of the increasing number that extends into your living area, then the look of your appliances will be more important.”
Image: Fisher & Paykel
Fisher & Paykel’s range of cooking appliances are designed to match each other – in finishes, proportions and details. Rather than having a clashing array of styles and brands, you can buy a complete suite of appliances with a cohesive, consistent look.
While integration is popular, Mark says not to discount the ‘wow’ factor of a big statement piece such as a robust, freestanding 90cm cooker or a sleek line-up of built-in appliances from their Companion range such as a coffee maker, combination microwave oven or steam oven.
THE LATEST INNOVATIONS
There is of course, always some new gadget to add the wow factor. Alisa says there are so many new appliances hitting the market every day, it is sometimes hard to keep up. “From built-in coffee machines, to steamers and instant hot and cold Zip taps, innovative appliances are what make kitchens stand out from each other.
“Appliances are not only essential and practical, but nowadays they are sexy and make a statement of their own. The right appliances in a kitchen say a lot about the people cooking in it. You can add your own personality with the many types of models now available. Choosing appliances has never been as exciting as it is today.
“We all want and expect more from kitchens now, so in your standard kitchen 10 years ago, a dishwasher was a luxury. Now, it’s just expected. Not only that, but now there are so many products available to us, when it comes to selecting appliances – cabinetry, benchtop finishes – reaching a final decision is so much harder.”
To create more flexible options, Fisher & Paykel have designed innovative appliances in drawers – the DishDrawer™ dishwasher and CoolDrawer™ multi-temperature refrigerator – plus a range of modular cooktops available in up to five burners or zones. Instead of having a traditional dishwasher next to the sink, you can put a single DishDrawer™ beside the sink and another closer to cupboards where glasses and crockery are stored. Putting appliances in the kitchen island is also a great option for open-plan kitchens.
Image: Fisher & Paykel
SPEND VS. SPLURGE
One area you can save money is on your splashbacks, says Alisa. “Glass splashbacks can be quite expensive, so head to your local tile store and see what is on special. A tiled splashback, done right, can certainly create impact. If you are really looking to save money on your kitchen renovation then as nice as it is to have soft closing drawers, they are not an essential. Another money-saving tip is to go out and source your own handles. Generally kitchen places offer the top of the range kitchen hardware, but it is amazing what specials you can pick up at your local hardware store.”
So, where should you splurge? “I certainly think quality appliances are always going to serve you well,” says Alisa. “They should last you a long time and it will save you the effort and hassle of having to replace any faulty appliances down the track. I also feel that investing in some kind of stone bench top is well worth it. Even though there are some pretty amazing laminates out there, I still feel nothing screams class as much as the real thing.”
When it comes to deciding whether to replace your appliances, bear in mind that old ones can consume more energy leading to increased costs. “Fridges are often the worst offenders,” Mark notes. “It’s really not a good idea to put your old fridge in the garage either because it can cost the price of a basic new fridge simply in running costs!”
When it comes to the cost of a benchtop, Caesarstone offer the following advice: “There are many factors to consider beyond the actual cost of the material itself. The cost to fabricate a benchtop can vary widely but it’s important to keep in mind that cheaper isn’t always necessarily better. Another simple cost-cutting measure is to factor the size of the raw material into your kitchen design – a small change in the length of your kitchen island for example, could be all the difference between needing two or three slabs of stone, which will make a big difference to the bottom line.”
WHAT’S TRENDY NOW?
When it comes to the biggest kitchen trends of the moment, Alisa highlights the comeback of the butler’s pantry and even the addition of a laundry within the kitchen to optimise space. “People are becoming more creative when it comes to storage solutions. Now they can be discreet and practical.”
View to the butler’s pantry in Carlene and Michael’s kitchen in the current series of The Block Glasshouse
Another trend is the use of slab splashbacks. “They are predominately used in open kitchens that have the advantage of working with space. Slabs with marble veins can create a focal point and in essence, become a piece of art. I am loving the use of timbers throughout kitchens this season. Whether used subtly or throughout the entire kitchen, there is something sexy and inviting about timber. It is clean, contemporary and always looks amazing with white clean lines.”
Like the twins’ kitchen in Fans vs. Favourites, which Alisa calls her dream kitchen, she is seeing a lot of designs take advantage of the space-saving and entertaining benefits of having a dining table integrated with the kitchen benchtop. “When done well, this can make your kitchen look bigger and creates dimension in the room.” When it comes to layout, Alisa doesn’t believe there is a set rule. “Each space is unique and every person has different wants and requirements.”
In fact, if you had to highlight one consistent trend in kitchens at the moment, it’s for customisation in all areas. “People who want very high temperature burners or wok cooking often select one or two gas burners and put them together with an induction cooktop,” says Mark. “Fisher & Paykel caters to this customisation as people make their own cooktop combinations. Each of the gas and induction variants are designed to match, in the same easy-to-clean, reflective black Stopsol glass and unifying polished metal strip.”
Image: Fisher & Paykel
When it comes to benchtops, due to improvements in technology, Caesarstone are seeing a trend back toward more natural looking surfaces with their marble-inspired Supernatural designs and colours in high demand. “As the modern industrial look becomes increasingly popular, we are also seeing a growing trend toward concrete-look benchtop surfaces being incorporated into mainstream kitchen designs, as more affordable and practical alternatives such as our Sleek Concrete become available,” says Caesarstone’s George Skentzos.
CHOOSING A BENCHTOP
Benchtops seem to be one of those things people um and ah over for a really long time, trying to get just right. At the end of the day, the look, colour and quality of your choice will have a big effect on the aesthetics of your kitchen. Then again, there are so many practical considerations as benchtops get a bit of a battering and you want them to last. Marble, in my opinion, looks amazing, but you wouldn’t catch me installing it as a benchtop even if I was made of money, due to its bad relationship with water!
George says: “Like the icing on a cake, a benchtop is the finishing touch for any kitchen – a personal signature which can dramatically transform the overall look of your kitchen. When selecting your benchtop, it’s important to ask yourself what overall look you want to achieve and whether you want the surface to become a focal point or blend in with the décor.”
Caesarstone’s online visualiser showing a kitchen with Sleek Concrete and Calacatta Nuvo benchtops
Designing a modern kitchen that will stand the test of time is a balancing act between incorporating current style trends with classic design elements to create an overall look that feels both modern and timeless. “Often, people make the mistake of designing their kitchen to be more clinical than contemporary, so my advice would be to incorporate natural materials like stone and timber over a neutral foundation which will always be on trend, then introduce a contemporary twist with fixtures like taps, feature lighting and splashbacks, which can be updated easily and affordably over time to keep the kitchen looking fresh.”
LAST BUT NOT LEAST
So, if you’re about to design your kitchen, listen up to the following advice from Alisa: “There are two places where people go wrong when designing a kitchen. Firstly, they don’t think about the functionality and layout. This is a huge mistake as once a kitchen is in, the layout is extremely difficult and expensive to change. The other mistake is that people design their kitchen around what is on trend right now, but come the next season, the trend will have changed. There are simple ways you can add trending products into your kitchen that can easily be changed, like pendant lights, stools, tea towels and vases. These are affordable items that can easily be removed and changed.”
CONCLUSION
I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to designing your modern kitchen. While trends come and go, I hope we’ve offered you some great advice on how to budget, what to consider, where to invest and where you can make some clever savings. We know a kitchen reno is a huge and sometimes daunting task to embark on, but don’t put it in the too-hard basket anymore. Armed with the right information and having done your homework, you can have a dream kitchen that you’ll use and love for many years to come. Good luck!
NEED MORE HELP & INSPIRATION?
If you’re planning to renovate, you can find out more about the latest Fisher & Paykel offers here. For more design ideas you can explore the inspirational case studies here or check out Interiors Addict’s Kitchens & Bathroom section.
Even Block winners realise they can always keep learning more about interiors and design. So Alisa and Lysandra Fraser have been doing some studying and being mentored by Naomi Findlay of the International Institute of Home Staging (IIHS). Have a look behind the scenes in this short video and you might learn a thing or two too…
You may recognise Naomi from our Diary of a Reno video series.
This week’s coffee table comes to you from the home of Alisa Fraser, one half of the (rarely seen apart!) Block-winning twins, Alisa and Lysandra.
“I have collected most of my coffee books whilst travelling,” says Alisa. “The small pink plate, tea cup and metal teapot are antiques my mum has given me as gifts. The two turquoise jars are from our online store.”
Alisa (left) and Lysandra
“Every coffee table needs fresh flowers and of course, coffee table books! It’s always nice to have sentimental or meaningful ornaments to bring personality and individuality to your home. Trays and candles are also a very simple but effective way to style any table. Balance is a hard thing to get right so make sure your decor is in proportion to the size of your table.”
The coffee table itself is the GUS from Globe West, available through Alisa & Lysandra Collections.
