Tag: colour

Dulux & Laminex launch complementary paired colourways

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 30, 2019
1 Comment on Dulux & Laminex launch complementary paired colourways

Laminex 'French Navy' pairs beautifully with Dulux 'Pacific Line'

In what is one of the cleverer collaborations of 2019, Aussie design industry powerhouses Laminex and Dulux have joined forces to make your next renovation a seamless one. The design partnership has launched a palette of 42 paired colourways, making it easier than ever to match your paint with your cabinetry.

“Laminex and Dulux are both industry-leading brands in colour and décor. In fact, Laminex laminates and Dulux paints are specified together more often than not. Brilliant in its simplicity, it just made sense for us to bring them together as seamlessly as possible,” says Laminex general manager of marketing, Sacha Leagh-Murray.

Laminex 'Just Rose' pairs with Dulux 'Lilac Hint' — Laminex ‘Just Rose’ pairs with Dulux ‘Lilac Hint’

To start with, Laminex did a thorough assessment of its range and came up with a list of its most popular colours. There are 42 shades in total, and each of them have been paired with a Dulux paint colour, taking the guesswork out for you. “All of the validation work has been done, so you can specify your preferred colours and be sure they’ll work beautifully together,” says Sacha.

Laminex 'Green Slate' pairs with Dulux 'Spirulina' — Laminex ‘Green Slate’ pairs with Dulux ‘Spiralina’

Unsurprisingly, due to their popularity, there’s a plethora of white in the mix, as well as a host of other neutrals. “Australians love white and Laminex is known for its extensive range of whites, as is Dulux, so it was a key colour to get right,” says Sacha. For instance, one of Australia’s most popular shades of white paint, Dulux ‘Hog Bristle,’ has been paired with one of Laminex’s newest decors, ‘French Cream.’

Laminex 'Lava Grey' paired with Dulux 'Klute' — Laminex ‘Lava Grey’ pairs with Dulux ‘Klute’

Other notable couplings include the soft taupe shade Laminex ‘Seed’ which has been paired with Dulux ‘Still.’ There’s also a soft green, Laminex ‘Spinifex,’ which matches back with Dulux ‘Coalition,’ and a deep grey, Laminex ‘Stormcloud,’ which has been paired with Dulux ‘Western Myall.’

For colour lovers, there’s plenty of accent and bright colours to choose from too, including a bright orange, rose pink, cobalt blue and fiery red.

Photography: Lillie Thompson | Art direction: Bek Sheppard

Check out the complete Dulux/Laminex range | How to choose between grey paint shades

Tags colour, dulux, interior design, interiors, laminex, paint

Interiors Addict

Haymes Paint 2020 colours: A new millennial pink?

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 28, 2019
No Comments on Haymes Paint 2020 colours: A new millennial pink?

Something of a cultural barometer, the 2020 Haymes Paint colour forecast ‘Calibrate’ was released this week; its soothing hues an antidote to the chaos of modern life.

“Our new colour library is influenced by the conversations that are currently inspiring society, such as climate change, equality and work balance. We have listened, and our new colours reflect on the attitudes and feelings of our audience,” says Haymes Paint colour and concept manager Wendy Rennie.

Comprised of three palettes (Equilibrium, Positive Light and Home Grown), the collection looks to the natural world for inspiration – the green of plants, the blues of the ocean and the terracotta tones found in the earth.

Equilibrium
This palette explores our connection to nature and is dominated by soothing green shades. With sage, olive and moss in the mix, this fresh colour palette offers a fabulous, contemporary alternative to the usual neutral tones.

Surprise entry, ‘Pastel Pine’ is a fabulous neon mint colour that Haymes is pitching as a gender-neutral, ageless alternative to millennial pink. We love!

Positive Light
One for the blue lovers, this is the boldest palette of the three, with the colours taking their cues from our beautiful oceans. There’s a bold cobalt, rich indigo, deep midnight and powder blue; Haymes explains that this palette is inspired by rising sea levels and more general climate change concerns.

'Debonair' forms part of the Positive Light palette — Positive Light’s moody ‘Debonair’

Home Grown
The ‘safest’ most user-friendly of the palettes, these elegant skin-toned neutrals are inspired by natural dyes and the wider Australian landscape. There’s colours ranging from varying shades of rust and earth to complex neutrals with red undertones.

The warm and inviting Home Grown palette

Photography: Annette O’Brien | Styling: Ruth Welsby

For more on Haymes Paint | Visualise paint colours with new digital render service

Tags colour, colour forecast, colours, haymes paint, interior design, interiors, paint, trend forecast

Design Designers Interviews Kitchens Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Moroccan inspired teal kitchen on Wollongong coast

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 23, 2019
2 Comments on Moroccan inspired teal kitchen on Wollongong coast

“The homeowner has a great love of travelling, Morocco being a highlight. They wanted to make their own little Moroccan haven within their home,” says interior designer Sarah Nolen of Birdblack Design, of this recent kitchen renovation. From the teal blue v-groove joinery to the patterned encaustic tile, this kitchen is certainly no wallflower.

Part of a 1960’s brick home located in Wollongong, aside from aesthetic changes, Sarah was employed to create an open-plan living space of the home’s former rabbit warren of rooms. “The existing home lacked a functional layout. It had separate living, kitchen and dining areas typical of the era,” says Sarah who let more light into the home too, courtesy of three new skylights.

The centrepiece of the space, the kitchen joinery combines solid blackbutt timber with v-groove teal polyurethane cabinetry for texture as well as a statement encaustic tile on the splash back and bench top. “Encaustic tiles are popular in Morocco but when selecting the tile, we wanted to reflect the location of the home and introduce some coastal elements,” says Sarah of the the blue and white tiles.

The new kitchen also houses a white ceramic butler’s sink, a custom blackbutt timber pendant light above the kitchen island, a gunmetal sink mixer as well as white Corian benchtops. “We also included open shelving to display our client’s travel treasures,” says Sarah.

With the home’s main laundry on the ground floor, and the kitchen on the second floor, Sarah also designed a little laundry in the kitchen to improve the functionality of the home. “It was ideal to have a secondary laundry area. We achieved this through installing a washing machine under the kitchen bench, along with incorporating a cleaning cupboard within the joinery,” says Sarah.

Adjacent to the kitchen, there’s a lounge and dining area – both of which feature the same teal shade. “They act as art within the space, picking up on the colours featured throughout,” says Sarah of the hand-blown Mark Douglass glass pendant lights that hang in a cluster about the timber dining table.

The custom teal joinery continues in the TV area where a teal velvet upholstered sofa sits covered in neutral cushions. Alongside, a monochrome Moroccan inspired rug helps to break up all the blue.

A matching upholstered bench seat sits nearby; it’s position ideal for taking in the view. “It’s the perfect location to enjoy a morning coffee and breakfast overlooking the escarpment,” says Sarah.

Photography: The Evoke Company | Styling: Jessi Eve

For more on Birdblack Design | Australian kitchen trends: Spring 2019 edition

Tags birdblack design, colour, design, interior design, interior designer, interiors, interview, kitchen, real reno, reno, renovation, wollongong

Architecture Design Designers House Tours

Green timber panels star in celebrated coastal home

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 23, 2019
No Comments on Green timber panels star in celebrated coastal home

The inaugural Inside Out Brickworks Home of the Year awards took place last night with a stellar line-up of Aussie houses singled out for their design originality. And while it was another of Kennedy Nolan’s projects (Caroline House) that took out the top honour (Home of the Year 2019), we were rather taken with the firm’s beautifully arresting Sandy Point House which was highly commended in the ‘Best New Home Build’ category.

Sandy Point House — Two perfect circles evoke a ship’s portholes on the home’s exterior

The home’s stunning interior colour palette is one of its standout features – it uses a variety of green shades to stunning effect. “I adore the calmness of this space. The natural colour palette mirrors the existing landscape – it’s a real bushland house. And creating a protected courtyard means that indoor/outdoor living is seamless,” says the editor of Inside Out, Eliza O’Hare who was a judge in the awards.

Inspired by the home’s bushland setting, there’s green in many shades from sage to olive and many in between. “The colour palette is built around muted, natural tones found in the surrounding landscape and its intensity is varied to shift the atmosphere and mood as you move from room to room,” says Kennedy Nolan architect Adriana Hanna.

Located in the modest beachside Victorian hamlet of Sandy Point, this holiday home sits on a steep, sloping block. Built from timber that is suitable for the home’s bushfire prone setting, the exterior wood is designed to ‘grey off’ and become camouflaged within the environment. This is just another way that the home has been beautifully designed, specifically for its unique location.

Fellow judge Cameron Bruhn, Dean of Architecture at the University of Queensland, is full of praise for the project too and feels it more than fulfils the holiday home brief. “The home has the quintessential settings of a great holiday house and a robustness that will serve generations to come,” says Cameron.

It’s been a big year for Kennedy Nolan – the practice has taken out awards in the 2019 Belle Coco Republic Interior Design Awards, the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards and the 2019 Australian Interior Design Awards too.

Inside Out Brickworks Home of the Year WINNERS:

Home of the Year 2019: Kennedy Nolan, Caroline Street
Best Use of Materials: BRICK: Renato D’Ettorre Architects, Gordons Bay House
Best Sustainable Project: Adam Kane, Yandoit Cabin
Best New Home Build: Renato D’Ettorre Architects, Gordons Bay House
Best Renovation: Ian Moore, Redfern Warehouse

Inside Out Brickworks Home of the Year HIGHLY COMMENDED:

Best New Home Build: Kennedy Nolan, Sandy Point House
Best Home Renovation: Bustle House, FMD Architects

Photography: Derek Swalwell

For more on Kennedy Nolan | Another green themed holiday home

Tags architecture, colour, design, inside out brickworks awards, inside out magazine, interiors, kennedy nolan, real home, victoria

Design House Tours Interviews Styling

Green scheme: holiday home a lesson in luxe

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 15, 2019
No Comments on Green scheme: holiday home a lesson in luxe

The talented team from The Designory are back and this time they’ve created the ultimate holiday home; in Byron Bay no less! Inspired by the raw Aussie coastline, the five-bedroom, five-bathroom home features a soothing green colour palette that is a departure from your typical coastal-themed interiors.

“There’s always the temptation when working with a coastal palette to work with shades of blue, and whilst we absolutely love that idea, we wanted to extend the coastal reference to the elements we find uniquely Australian – the darker eucalyptus greens, the rich sea grass greens found on walks through the dunes, and the minty sea foam tones found at the ocean’s edge,” says director Melissa Bonney.

From the tinted green concrete bench tops in the kitchen and laundry to the green Moroccan-inspired tiles in the bathrooms and green soft furnishings throughout, the home certainly makes a case for drawing on the greener aspects of our coast.

The home’s coastal vibe is further cemented by its strong connection between the indoors and outdoors. “This was a key element to the success of the home, and we utilised a number of strong glazing elements to achieve this,” says Melissa. To this end, a five-metre stacked sliding door opens from the main living area to the alfresco and pool area.

Stacked doors allow guest to move seamlessly between the spaces — Stacked doors allow guests to move seamlessly between the open-plan spaces

A standout space, the home’s bunk room is a beautifully designed and styled space that can sleep up to six kids. “The brief included a little bit of whimsy, a sense of fun and a whole lot of functionality,” says Melissa of the room that features suspended bunks, that appear to float, with a netted area between them. There’s also two beds underneath, in addition to two pull-out trundle beds.

This room features spotted wallpaper layered with textured grey and mustard soft furnishings, leather beanbags and jute baskets. “The final elements adorning the wall are a gorgeous piece of art, a whimsical lion, and a selection of timber hooks randomly scattered,” says Melissa.

Colours and open-plan spaces aside, the interiors are a masterclass in the luxe Aussie coastal vibe The Designory is renowned for. “Delivering a ‘luxe’ vibe is really all about layering and texture and repeated materials,” says Melissa. The home does this expertly with its clever mix of textured rugs, tactile fabrics, textured paints and wallpapers.

And for anyone looking to recreate this look at home, Melissa has great advice. “Pick a theme or colour scheme and ensure that runs seamlessly through the home by repeating elements or materials,” says Melissa. For example, you might choose an oak front door, and then use oak furniture or custom vanities as well as oak pots or other styling items.

Rent the home via AirBNB | Another Byron Bay abode

Tags byron bay, coastal interiors, colour, design, interior design, interior designer, interiors, styling, the designory

Bathrooms Designers Interviews RENO ADDICT

Coloured ceiling pops in Melbourne bathroom!

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 15, 2019
No Comments on Coloured ceiling pops in Melbourne bathroom!

Part of a newly renovated heritage home in the Melbourne suburb of Kew, these two bathrooms were overhauled recently with an emphasis on bold, bright colour. Home to a busy family of five, the new children’s bathroom is notable for its bright yellow ceiling while the parent’s ensuite features a unique, multi-coloured fish-scale tile for maximum impact.

“My client Julie has a great love of colour and wanted to express this in the spaces we designed. I think using colour in a bathroom adds an element of surprise,” says the project’s interior designer Fiona Parry-Jones of Von Haus, who is known for her creative use of the colour wheel.

The yellow accented bathroom was designed for the children of the house, with the words ‘fun,’ ‘relaxed’ and ‘functional’ featuring heavily in the brief. “The client was very keen to use yellow in the space as it’s a colour her kids love,” says Fiona.

After an exhaustive hunt for the perfect yellow tile, and a lack of consensus on which one to choose, the designer suggested a yellow ceiling – Haymes Paint in Primrose Path. “It’s a fresh, clean yellow and it’s vibrant and energetic. The beauty about a painting a ceiling is you can change the colour after a few years if you get bored with it,” says Fiona.

Yellow paint aside, the room also features a cool grey cube mosaic tile from Tiento Tiles. “They added to the fun feel for the kids’ space,” says Fiona who maximised storage using mirrored cabinets.

In contrast, the master ensuite is a moodier affair with its earthy brown undertones. “The brief was for a calm tranquil space with colour injected into the design to create a focal point in the room. The brief was for something more moody and earthy compared to the kids’ room though,” says Fiona.

An eclectic vibe was created using Japanese fan, or fish-scale, mosaic tiles sourced from Academy Tiles behind the free-standing bath and in the shower niche too. “They created an eye-catching wall that suited the bathroom retreat vibe,” says Fiona. The carefully selected Victoria + Albert bath was no accident either. “The bath shape was important as we wanted it to be luxurious and curvy with no hard edges,” says Fiona.

As for her take on colour in a more general sense, Fiona always encourages her clients to go beyond the safe options that most people opt for. “Colour can be used in such a way masterful way and it doesn’t always have to be bright and bold. When I think of a kid’s room for example, if you are going to choose a white as base, why not have a little fun and paint an accent colour all the way around the room from bedhead height to the floor? This breaks up the white and adds personality to the room.”

A close-up of the tile — A close-up of the lovely feature tile

Styling by Petrina Turner Design and photography by Elizabeth Schiavello.

For more on Fiona and Von Haus | Colourful, functional one-of-a-kind Aussie ceramics

Tags bathroom, bathrooms, colour, design, interior design, interiors, melbourne, von haus

Art Interviews

Contemporary Indigenous Australian art: Natalie Jade

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 10, 2019
5 Comments on Contemporary Indigenous Australian art: Natalie Jade

Self-taught Gippsland based artist Natalie Jade caught our eye recently. While her paintings draw heavily on her Indigenous heritage, her vibrant palette extends beyond the more orthodox, earthy tones. “Traditionally, the colours were made from the earth but these days we have access to a lot more colours. These days, a lot of Aboriginal art is very colourful,” says Natalie.

'We are here for you' limited edition print, from $150 — ‘We are here for you’ limited edition print, from $150

Natalie’s high school art teacher was the first to recognise her talent and tried to encourage her to study art at university. “I decided against it because my sister went down that road and I didn’t want to copy her. I also saw how hard it can be to make it as artist, so I choose something more practical,” says Natalie.

Beyond school, Natalie worked many jobs including retail, hospitality and childcare but none of them stuck. “I’ve tried many different jobs throughout my life but none of them felt right or worth the money and time taken from me. I never lasted long in any of them because I felt too trapped in the 9-5 world,” says Natalie.

'Between two worlds' limited edition print, from $150 — ‘Between two worlds’ limited edition print, from $150

But painting had always been there, and Natalie eventually started selling her artworks on Bluethumb and at local markets too. “But I often struggled with depression and a lack of money to keep my practice going. After my last baby was born, I was able to save enough to start up my own website,” says Natalie who began slowly adding to the site around the demands of her youngest child.

“I painted while she slept on me every day and basically, just didn’t give up. Somehow, I ended up where I am now,” says Natalie.

A pregnant Natalie with one of her works

The artist’s Aboriginality comes from her mother’s side which has its roots in Tasmania. “My great grandmother grew up being told that she was Maori and it took my brother years of digging to find out who we really are. I always felt I was different and once I found that I was actually Aboriginal, white or not, it was like I had discovered a missing piece of myself,” says Natalie.

'My great grandmother's country' limited edition print, from $150 — ‘My great grandmother’s country’ limited edition print, from $150

Working primarily with acrylics on canvas, and sometimes paper, Natalie draws on her culture, life experiences, feelings and the colours in her surrounding environment. “I also call on my ancestors to help me paint and am often told to use this colour or that. I rarely start a painting with a pre-planned idea. I usually start with a colour then just go from there.”

'Apart' original painting, $650 — ‘Apart’ original painting 30cm x 30cm, $650

Shop online | Grace Costa’s regal horse photography

Tags art, artist, colour, greenhouse interiors, interview, natalie jade

Homewares Interviews

Hot find: Colourful, functional one-of-a-kind Aussie ceramics

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 9, 2019
No Comments on Hot find: Colourful, functional one-of-a-kind Aussie ceramics

“The word ‘chimerical’ means unchecked imagination and that’s the feeling we want to bring to our work. We would describe our work as eclectic, colourful and abstract!” says Charissa Schlink, one half of the Perth-based ceramics duo Chimerical Homewares whose fun, colourful, one-off pieces remind me of the fashion brand Gorman.

Chimerical Homewares — A selection of the brand’s one-off ceramics

From platters to plant pots, bowls, vases and mugs, the range is brimming with on-trend colours, and it’s no surprise to hear that Charissa met her business partner Sharnah Abbott while studying fashion design at TAFE. “We started a ‘paint your own ceramics’ café for children after we graduated from fashion and that’s where we really got into our own ceramic painting,” says Charissa.

Chimerical Homewares' Sharnah Lee and Charissa Schlink — Sharnah Abbott and Charissa Schlink with two of their gorgeous platters that take a minimum of four hours to paint

The pair’s prolific output soon meant both of their homes were overflowing with hand-painted ceramics, prompting a move to sell them at local markets. “We had to find an outlet for our art!” says Charissa of the brand that can now be purchased online, and in various retail outlets including The Block Shop in Melbourne.

“We want to make homewares that brighten up your house and bring a smile to your face. I always love that our customers can look at our pieces and find their own meaning in them,” says Charissa. Inspired by abstract art, especially weaving and collage, the Chimerical Homewares pieces use pattern to create depth and texture.

Unsurprisingly, the plant world is a major muse too. “We are mostly inspired by nature as we are both massive plant lovers,” says Charissa.

Aside from keeping up with demand for their ceramics (many pieces are sold out), the creatives have also started another company called ‘Little Paint Co’ which offers ceramic painting parties and workshops in Perth, both in the studio and on a mobile basis.

Shop online | Kaz Morton’s latest ceramics range

Tags ceramics, colour, design, homewares, interviews, perth

Interviews

Paint trends 2020: Wattyl forecasts two distinct looks

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 7, 2019
No Comments on Paint trends 2020: Wattyl forecasts two distinct looks

As colour palettes they couldn’t be more disparate, but that’s because Wattyl’s 2020 trend release draws on two very different themes; the fast-paced digital world and our desire to get back to nature. “We are moving forward, whilst looking back. The digital and the natural are so close – and yet worlds apart!” says Sarah Stephenson, Wattyl’s colour and design expert.

Bright Future
With its saturated, bright and bold primary colours, this palette evokes the paintings of Piet Mondrian. “There is a growing focus on artificial and digital tones that pop on screen as much as they do in real life. The youthful, tech brights of Bright Future create the feeling of an art installation,” says Sarah.

Cobalt blue (Space Odyssey), bold red (Firefly), bright yellow (Secret Shrine) and orange (Made in Mars) sit alongside the calmer almost duck egg blue (Pretty Polly) and charcoal (Grey Ember). A palette for the brave, these colours would work best in a child’s playroom or a commercial space.

Natural Connection
By contrast, the Natural Connection palette is rooted in the gorgeous organic tones that bring us back to earth and many of the shades would look glorious at home.

“Our homes become sanctuaries with a priority for calm and comfort. The harmony of mid-tone colours creates a calming, cosy environment,” says Sarah of the palette that is comprised of six colours that draw on grounded, mineral hues, textured surfaces and sustainable materials.

The 'Natural Connection' palette — The ‘Natural Connection’ palette

There’s a gorgeous pinky-terracotta tone (Red Ochre), a shade that evokes red wine (Sea Grape), a pinkish purple (Ridgey), a gold tone (Indiana’s Gold) as well as the cooler toned teal (Point Byron) and Moccacino which looks just as lovely as it sounds.

The inspiration behind the 'Natural Connection' palette — The inspiration behind the ‘Natural Connection’ palette

For more

Tags 2020 paint trends, colour, expert comment, interiors, paint, paint trends, Wattyl

Art Interviews

Currently coveting: Bibi Ana + Co’s latest artworks

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date September 27, 2019
No Comments on Currently coveting: Bibi Ana + Co’s latest artworks

Artist Marcia Priestley, of Bibi Ana + Co., has released a new collection that, while inspired by animals and plants, combines them in a uniquely abstract way. “I fell in love with the challenge of combining two antithetical subjects from our natural environment to create one compatible, organic, yet lively statement,” says Marcia.

For example, ‘Tiger Plant’ (Marcia’s favourite from the new collection) looks almost like an animal print save for its green and blue hues. Similarly, ‘Palm Birds Pink Lake East’ is a line sketch that combines a palm tree and stork bird rendered in gorgeous peach, blush and green tones.

'Palm Birds Pink Lake East' — ‘Palm Birds Pink Lake East’ features palm fronds and a stork

“Other pieces in this collection that are reminiscent of animal print include ‘Outbloom Night.’ I particularly love the way this piece has muted tones with a soft chalk-like finish that looks like plants at dusk,” says Marcia referring to one of two round pieces that feature in the range.

‘Wild Wisteria’ is brimming with 1970’s inspired tones – mustard, terracotta, khaki and navy make for a vigorous mix. “It has a colossal amount of colour and texture and it’s such a fun piece. Interestingly, it works so well when combined with old pieces of furniture as it injects new life into them,” says Marcia who currently has the piece at home paired with an old Asian sideboard.

Another round piece, ‘Posy & Posey’ is loaded with colour and texture – avocado and sage green jostle for attention alongside rust and blush tones. “It was an interesting piece to paint because each individual segment, or petal, of each flower has quite a lot of texture which was needed to give it depth,” says Marcia.

Rather amusingly, Marcia’s decision to create a couple of circular canvasses was borne out of a desire to avoid moving to a new house! “I love the aesthetic of a round window in a home as it feels so calming. But the problem was, I didn’t want to build a new house to get one, so I painted a picture on a round canvas to give me the closest effect I’m going to get to a round window!”

The smallest piece in the collection, ‘Foliole’ is another of her most cherished pieces – in it, the artist has homed in on the structure of a leaf. “It’s got a thriving organic nature about it which, to look at, feels so gentle and easy on the eye.”

Photography: Leon Schoots | Styling: Aisha Chaudhry for Greenhouse Interiors, assisted by Sophie Lennon | Furniture: Make Your House A Home

Shop prints and originals online | How to buy art like an experienced collector

Tags affordable art, art, artist, bibi ana and co, colour, greenhouse interiors, marcia priestley

Homewares Interviews Shopping

Bonnie & Neil latest: 1970’s via the coast!

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date September 25, 2019
No Comments on Bonnie & Neil latest: 1970’s via the coast!

COAST is the latest collection from textile designers Bonnie & Neil and, as the name suggests, it’s inspired by the colours and textures of the seaside, both at home and abroad. Less of a straight-forward floral outing (the brand’s signature look), this range features tile designs and wave patterns across tableware, cushions, wallpaper, ceramics, cards, tea towels, linen throws and artwork. There’s 60 stunning new pieces and we’re hard pressed to choose a fave.

“Australia remains one of our main sources of influence, with Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland’s coastlines all reflected in this collection. But what we really wanted to represent, with the range, was the feelings that coastal living and holidays evoke,” says one half of the talented duo, Bonnie Ashley.

The ‘Ocean’ cushions are a highlight – they feature abstract waves in cobalt blue, black, khaki and clay colour ways. The 1970’s feel is palpable and it’s an aesthetic that is woven throughout the range. “This collection has a nod to the seventies in both pattern and colour ways with rich amber, red and brown complementing the earthy palette,” says Bonnie.

And for the first time, the brand has added wallpaper to their offering, with the aforementioned ‘Ocean’ design a standout. “We’ve had wallpaper on our agenda for some time so it’s exciting to finally release it!” says Bonnie.

The ‘Coast’ design takes a more literal approach with a statement seashell looking much more stylish than you’d imagine (seaside motifs can look pretty naff no?).

As for Bonnie’s favourite pieces she’s a big fan of the ‘Marguerite Velvet’ cushion in the pink and red colourway. “This design started as a series of oil paintings and we’ve collaged them together in repeat,” says Bonnie. The ‘Strawberries’ napkins are another of Bonnie’s favourite designs – so much so that they’ve already made their way onto the designer’s table at home.

Bonnie's favourite 'Marguerite' cushion in amber can be seen here on the sofa — Bonnie’s favourite ‘Marguerite’ cushion in amber can be seen here on the sofa

While the brand has long been celebrated for its unique aesthetic, few people realise that most of their products are handmade with screen printing an onerous yet central technique. “A number of our designs are printed as CMYK process which is a time consuming but technically rewarding process. Many people don’t realise that we hand screen print our products from our studio so there’s a whole lot of design attention that goes into each piece.”

Bonnie's favourite 'Strawberries' print — Bonnie’s favourite ‘Strawberries’ print

Photography: Lauren Bamford | Styling: Stephanie Stamatis

Shop online | Fresh blooms star in our favourite spring homewares

Tags bonnie & neil, bonnie and neil, colour, cushions, design, homewares, textiles, wallpaper

Design Designers Interviews Kitchens Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real reno: Blue kitchen block transforms townhouse

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date September 20, 2019
No Comments on Real reno: Blue kitchen block transforms townhouse

Located in the inner-Melbourne suburb of Balaclava, this compact 2001 townhouse was creatively redesigned recently, on time and to a tight budget, for a father and his two sons. “This was an exercise in tailoring a space to a client’s needs,” says the project’s architect Richard King of RK-D.

The architect maximised storage space and turned the former maze of rooms into a much more open plan environment with the striking blue kitchen undoubtedly the star. “My client loves the blue and how it juxtaposes with the timber floor and nearby white library,” says Richard.

“A simple, blue block of built-in-joinery defines the new kitchen/pantry and WC. I wanted to create a singular element that neatly collected everything together. I also wanted for it to add a pop of colour,” says Richard who designed it in such a way that the laundry and WC are efficiently tucked away at the back while the pantry, fridge and rangehood are at the front.

“The blue wall is a cluster of built-in joinery. It’s a simple element that neatly contains everything whilst hiding its useful contents from sight,” says Richard who came up with the concept after seeing a similar wall at a London art gallery.

The laundry is concealed behind the blue kitchen — This simple white laundry is concealed behind the blue kitchen

A clever joinery solution was also employed in the adjacent lounge area – the multitasking space functions as a library, place to watch television and study area. “My client wanted to add in more storage capacity, so I designed a bespoke library/storage wall. He also wanted a space to do out-of-hours work so I included a study nook into the library wall,” says Richard.

The multi-purpose wall unit has a space for a large television, hi-fi system, as well as shelves to display the owner’s beloved record collection too.

Nearby, a bathroom and WC were combined to create one larger, light-filled space. “We converted an enclosed WC into a walk-in shower room and relocated the WC to the other side of the bathroom, allowing for a large freestanding bath and new purpose-built vanity,” says Richard.

The bathroom’s light material palette and reflective surfaces also contribute to a greater feeling of space. And again, the room showcases a flash of blue – a gutsy tile choice that has really paid off.

Shower and bath — I love that bright double shower!

Photography: Tom Roe Photography

For more on RK-D | Another Melbourne home that celebrates blue

Tags architect, colour, interior design, interiors, kitchen, melbourne, paint, real reno, reno, renovation

Expert Tips

Dulux colour forecast 2020: Restrained, nature-inspired

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date September 5, 2019
2 Comments on Dulux colour forecast 2020: Restrained, nature-inspired

It’s hard to believe that we’re looking at the 2020 trend forecasts already but the Dulux one hit our inboxes recently and it’s a beauty. The result of extensive trend research by the brand’s colour and communications manager Andrea Lucena-Orr and stylist Bree Leech, the nature-inspired palette draws on our desire to escape the digital onslaught and reconnect with the natural world – botanical, mineral and oceanic.

“These colour trends are influenced by what’s happening in the world around us. With more focus on mental health, the wellness movement continues to gain momentum, as does an emphasis on natural materiality,” says Andrea of the collection titled ‘Essence’ that consists of four palettes: Comeback, Grounded, Cultivate and Indulge.

“Colours for 2020 are more restrained than in previous years. Brights are pulled back and influenced by nature. They appear in smaller doses – think feature walls and details – and are often used tonally as a backdrop for hero furniture pieces. Neutrals are soft and sophisticated, with a gently faded feel that speaks of stillness and calm. Clay, with its warm, earthy appeal, is emerging as a key neutral,” says Andrea.

Comeback
This palette features rich ocean and mineral inspired shades of blue-green, azure and amber alongside warm tones of burgundy, rust and clay. “There’s a lightness and fluidity to the ocean tones in this palette that speak of creativity and adventure, while the warm, earthy shades add cosiness. It’s the ideal backdrop to combine furniture from different eras – from mid-century through to the 1980’s – in elegant and refined shapes,” says Andrea.

The title of the palette, Comeback, reflects a shift in how we view luxury. The current Kondo-esque ‘less is more’ approach is seeing us turn away from cheap, mass-produced pieces to seek out quality and it is often found in recycled and vintage wares.

Grounded
The most neutral of the palettes this one runs from soft grey and biscuit to muddy lavender with a touch of warm coral for opulence. “We’re seeing a more tonal palette for 2020, and Grounded is a perfect example. It has a soft, neutral feel that creates a sense of relaxation in a space, with gold and coral adding touches of luxe,” says Andrea.

This palette really picks up on the textural, natural materials trend with a view to the positive effects they can have on our mental health – bringing the outside in is key whether it’s growing our own food or cultivating an indoor plant collection.

Cultivate
My favourite of the palettes, Cultivate is a celebration of green with layering of different shades of the the hue looking rather effortless in the inspiration shots. From soft olive and pistachio to forest green it’s a rather sumptuous yet calming look that is offset by tones of plum, curd and chalky blue.

“The colours and textures in Cultivate are easy to work with and have a warmth that really conveys the essence of ‘home.’ They look beautiful paired with raw, mid-tone timbers, natural stone and transparent, coloured glass,” says Andrea.

Indulge
As the name suggests, this palette brings together a rather decadent array of colours including rich burgundy, eggplant, earthy brown, faded terracotta and soft coral. Mmm.

“This palette is not for the faint-hearted – it’s dramatic and exciting and is guaranteed to add wow factor to a master bedroom, dining room or living room. Pink, a key colour of the last few years, makes an appearance, but in a more neutral tone that’s closer to tan, alongside a warm, dusty rose.”

Dulux Indulge — Faded terracotta and soft coral make a heavenly combination

Photography: Lisa Cohen | Styling: Bree Leech

For more | Australian bathroom trends: August 2019

Tags Bree Leech, colour, dulux, interior design, paint, paint trends, trend forecast

Art Interviews

Artist Adele Naidoo’s unique digital & acrylic works

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date August 20, 2019
5 Comments on Artist Adele Naidoo’s unique digital & acrylic works

Combining digital drawings with acrylic paint, Adele Naidoo’s works caught our eye recently. Her large-scale florals are created with thick, textured brush strokes and dripping paint for a unique take on the still-life genre. “I would describe my work as colourful, bold, feminine, fresh and fun,” says the self-taught artist who is based in Perth.

Adele’s childhood provides a good bit of insight into her creative journey – she grew up immersed in nature in South Africa, raised by her artist father. “Growing up in South Africa, art and nature surrounded me. I learnt to see the beauty found in nature and I always admired my dad’s still lives of birds and flowers which has been interpreted throughout my works,” says Adele who holds a diploma in interior design and juggles her art practice with a full-time job as an art teacher.

“I have been creating and experimenting with art for many years. Art has always been a passion of mine, but only in recent years have I endeavoured to find my style,” says Adele whose first collection was comprised of 12 large-scale, digitally drawn bird portraits. Having moved on from pure digital art of late, Adele has combined her stylus with acrylic paint in this latest collection.

“I digitally hand draw my flowers using a stylus pen, experimenting with composition and colours before printing onto canvas,” says Adele. Layers of texture are then added by way of acrylic paint that is overlaid on the drawings – thick brush strokes and paint drips add key final touches.

“My latest collection with Greenhouse Interiors allowed me to push myself, my style and my skill set. It is my first original series and also features my first still life. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I had so much fun experimenting and creating it. My only hope is that it brightens someone’s day.”

In a coup for Adele, one of her prints was seen in Deb and Andy’s Block formal lounge room on Sunday night and the judges loved it.

Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Aisha Chaudhry for Greenhouse Interiors, assisted by Jessica Retallack, Justine Lanigan and Sophie Barratt

Shop online | Artist & farmer Kate Owen’s work is inspired by drought

Tags adele naidoo, affordable art, art, artist, artist profile, colour, greenhouse interiors, interview

Art Interviews

Blockheads Hannah & Clint’s new art range: Women star

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date August 9, 2019
No Comments on Blockheads Hannah & Clint’s new art range: Women star

It’s been two years since former Blockheads Hannah and Clint Amos debuted their first art print range in collaboration with Melbourne based artwork retailer Artist Lane. And the busy couple (who are now parents to three children since the arrival of their son Archie nine months ago) are back with a new range. It’s a great mix of art and on-trend photography that’s akin to the rooms the couple delivered on the show – sleek and modern with a feminine twist.

“We had such an overwhelming response with our first collection, and we can’t wait to share this beautiful collaboration. Our love for watercolour lives on and it’s no surprise that blush pink remains the dominant colour in the collection,” says Hannah. But the collections also features brighter, more playful works than the last, and the couple has added a few new artists to the entirely female stable too.

The couple with the ‘Peonies will keep us together’ print

“Funnily enough I wouldn’t say working with only female artists was intentional. We just naturally gravitated towards those artists and their creativity. That being said, working with female talent has always been important to me. When women support each other, incredible things happen!” says Hannah. Fern Siebler, Taylor Lee, Renee Tohl, Jenna Paige and Ani Ipradjian are just some of the artists with work in the range.

Hannah with the 'Oh My' print — Hannah with the ‘Oh Me’ and ‘Oh My’ prints

A diverse collection, there’s landscape photographs (both aerial and more traditional) as well as painterly watercolour works and bolder pieces. “It’s the right balance of feminine yet the moody hues and inky blues add that masculine feel. Modern, soft florals round out the collection and coastal vibes take us back to our Queensland roots,” says Hannah. Fittingly, Clint’s favourite piece ‘On The Beach’ is an aerial landscape shot that conjures a bright summer’s day on the sand.

You can catch a glint of Clint's favourite print 'On The Beach' on the left — You can catch a glimpse of Clint’s favourite print ‘On The Beach’ on the left

Hannah also drew on her travels in Morocco with the location featuring in a couple of pieces (‘Moorish’ and ‘Moorish 2’) – the terracotta hue is decidedly on-trend. “That piece features the Pantone Colour of the Year coral and my all-time favourite peachy hues of terracotta and dusty pink,” says Hannah.

'Moorish' and 'Moorish 2' prints — ‘Moorish 2’ and ‘Moorish’ prints

One of Hannah’s favourite pieces is Jenna Paige’s ‘Teal Love’ which is a fabulous and fail-safe mix of deep green and pink. “Jenna joins our team as one of our featured artists and her artwork is simply divine! Her artwork is highly inspired by the ocean and the other wonders that mother nature offers us,” says Hannah.

Clint and Hannah with their new baby and Paige — Clint and Hannah with their new son Archie and Jenna Paige’s ‘Teal Love’ print

Photography: Joe Vittorio

To celebrate the launch, until next Wednesday 14 August you can get 20% off the new Hannah & Clint Collection by using the code HC20 at check out.

Shop online | Discover artist Kezz Brett’s semi-abstract works

Tags affordable art, art, artist, artist lane, colour, Hannah Amos, hannah and clint, prints, styling

Before & Afters Design Furniture Homewares Interviews Shopping Styling

Obus clothing brand’s studio transformed by west elm

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date August 8, 2019
No Comments on Obus clothing brand’s studio transformed by west elm

Obus creative director and founder at her new desk

The fashion studio of cult Melbourne fashion label Obus was transformed recently by the talented team at west elm. And what was formerly a basic white room is now a medley of terracotta and pink that much better reflects the brand known for its smart tailoring, vibrant colours and statement prints.

AFTER studio. A much more inspiring space!

The naturally bright room was repainted with Haymes Paint and a gorgeous burnt orange shade now adorns the fireplace. The centrepiece of the room, the meeting table remains but it’s been refreshed with a variety of different seating options including leather dining chairs and stools custom upholstered in Obus El Castillo print fabric. A terracotta rug helps to define the space and a statement pendant light adds a fabulous touch of drama.

This gorgeous west elm chair was custom upholstered in Obus fabric — This gorgeous west elm Janie chair was custom upholstered in Obus fabric

“Our west elm design crew created a space that’s as vibrant and bold as the print and pattern play that Obus creates. The brief was to create a space that’s hardworking – yet inspiring, and to incorporate existing pieces into the design,” says Angus Whyte, west elm’s vice president of country merchandising.

And while a mirror is essential for a fashion brand, the west elm metal framed arched floor mirror looks amazing in the studio, complemented by a west elm Bishop pedestal planter in midnight blue and some much-needed indoor plants.

A multi-tasking piece, the west elm Fulton bar cart takes on different roles depending on what is happening in the studio. It acts as a moveable fitting station when the in-house model is in the studio on a Monday but once Friday rolls around it’s the perfect post-work cocktail station. “I love the idea of pieces serving double-duty, so we stayed focused on making smart, simple additions that complement what was already in play,” says west elm visual lead Rhys Duggan.

The multi-tasking west elm Fulton bar cart

To celebrate the collaboration, one lucky person has the chance to win their own $850 custom Obus x west elm armchair, together with a $500 west elm gift card and $500 Obus gift card. Enter here.

Shop online | Illustrator Kerrie Hess’ chic home office

Tags before and after, colour, design, fashion, furniture, homewares, interior design, interiors, makeover, melbourne, obus, studio, styling, west elm

Bedrooms Design Designers Interviews Kids Rooms Styling

Real rooms: 3 Sydney bedrooms get whimsical makeovers

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date August 2, 2019
1 Comment on Real rooms: 3 Sydney bedrooms get whimsical makeovers

Drawing on the colourful, whimsical and often eccentric style of British interior designers Kit Kemp and Abigail Ahern, these Sydney bedrooms (part of a Balmain family home) received the makeover treatment recently courtesy of interior designer Monique Sartor of Sartorial Interiors. “Abigail Ahern is well known for her use of dark interiors while Kit Kemp has a quirky style with clashing colours,” says Monique of the inspiration behind the rooms.

Starting with plain cream rooms, Monique used wallpaper and bold paint colours to create fun yet sophisticated spaces with plenty of personality. “I love using colour in my work. I think so many people are afraid of it which baffles me because it can really elevate a space when used well,” says Monique.

The makeover kicked off in the dimly lit master bedroom with Fornasetti’s iconic Nuvolette wallpaper and a generous splash of charcoal paint (Resene’s ‘Koala’) – a risky choice considering the low light factor, but Monique enjoys pushing her clients out of their comfort zones. “The result is dramatic and warm and inviting and somehow feels larger than when it was cream,” says Monique. Finishing touches include soft furnishings in clashing teal and purple.

Master bedroom fireplace — Master bedroom

The nearby toddler’s room is a delightful space that’s sports a statement swathe of Kiki Slaughter’s painterly ‘Oh La La’ wallpaper on the back wall, accessorised with a trio of silver faux deer heads and Resene ‘Opal’ paint. The Fantastic Furniture house bed (painted with Resene ‘Imbue’) is another highlight alongside a United Interiors bunny print that hangs above the fireplace.

“The nursery was designed before the owner’s last baby arrived and given we didn’t know the gender, the scheme had to work for a boy or girl,” says Monique who used a deep teal paint (Resene’s ‘Hydroponic’) on the walls with ombre linen curtains in the same hue. An oversized yellow flower decal from Urban Walls sits alongside the cot with a gorgeous gold-flecked Amigos de Hoy rug the perfect complement on the floor.

“Overall, we took some risks, but I believe they paid off!” says Monique who admits to massaging her clients’ modest budget in order to spend money on the items that would have the biggest visual impact. “Ultimately the client loved the result and having a happy client is like having a sugar rush!”

Photography: Monique Sartor

For more | Jen’s master bedroom reveal

Tags bedroom, colour, design, home reno, home renovation, interior, interior design, interior designer, interiors, styling, stylist, sydney

Art Interviews

Artist profile: Kezz Brett’s joyful semi-abstract works

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date July 31, 2019
2 Comments on Artist profile: Kezz Brett’s joyful semi-abstract works

Artist Kezz Brett has always painted but between raising two children and owning her own fashion boutique for 24 years, she never had the time. But all that changed upon retirement three years ago when Kezz started focussing seriously on creating her joyful, colourful semi-abstract works that are inspired by the landscape in Orange where she lives. The vibrant works also look right at home inside her exclusive stockist Jumbled; the award-winning homewares emporium owned by her daughter Pip.

“I have always had an interest in art and am a very creative person by nature. I did art for my HSC and then trained as a teacher before moving into fashion so I really only got back into painting before my retirement,” says Kezz who now paints as much as she used to work in between playing golf and travelling the globe.

Kezz painting outdoors — Kezz’s work is inspired by the Orange landscape

Vibrant, colourful, bold and unstructured, Kezz’s work combines abstraction with figurative elements and Dulux sample pots are her medium of choice. “Their colour book is like my bible with literally thousands of colours. I love that I can dunk my brush in and slap it on – its a really versatile medium. I also use acrylic tubes of paint too.”

Constantly creating, the artist finds that her best paintings are often the ones that are the quickest to create. “I like my art a bit abstract but so that you can still see what it is. Most times I pick up a brush and let it all flow out. Sometimes the faster and more furious I go, the more energy the painting has. I try not to overthink it too much!”

It’s an approach that is clearly working with most of her works selling within 24 hours of appearing on the Jumbled Instagram feed. And instead of creating collections, Kezz works on a constant basis with each piece making its way into the Jumbled online or bricks and mortar store.

“I try to do a bit of everything to appeal to everyone and I feed them into Jumbled a couple of times a week and don’t sell anywhere else,” says Kezz.

It’s the lack of deadlines and the ability to remain fairly anonymous that Kezz finds most appealing about her new life phase. “I have loved every part of my life, but retirement and being able to paint when I want to, is really the icing on the cake. I feel very lucky.”

Shop online | Emerging artist Tim Freeman’s minimalist seascapes

Tags art, artist, australian artist, colour, jumbled, kezz brett, orange