It’s no secret that we’re massive fans of west elm around here and we’re loving the brand’s summer 2018 collection. From a gorgeous lilac occasional chair to a fabulous art deco-inspired bar cabinet, the latest drop provides many fun, retro-inspired pieces as we head into the warmer months.
Wire Frame Slipper Chair: Perfect for lovers of the lilac trend, this low profile occasional chair is available in mustard and neutral upholstery but it’s the ‘pink grapefruit’ colour way that made my heart skip a beat. $449.
Zelda bar cabinet: I love this piece’s art-deco inspired details and it features clever wine glass and bottle storage too. $1299.
Retro Modernist vases: Bold yet curvy, these mid-century inspired vases pack a huge visual punch and are utterly vignette-worthy. From $34.
Drake sofa in forest green velvet: Featuring crisp lines, tapered wooden legs and grid button-tufted back cushions, this gorgeous green sofa has perennial style. $1499.
Sweater knit baskets: These artisanal, textural storage baskets are hand woven, hand braided and hand stitched in India. They’re ideal for a cosy, boho injection. $59.
Andes double futon: Ideal for guests, this is one of the more stylish futons I’ve come across. It’s based on the brand’s best-selling Andes design but seats three when upright and sleeps two when unfolded. $1899.
As a simple and chic three-seaterAnd voila! It becomes a double bed
Wright dining table: Inspired by mid-century Italian design, this table seats eight people and is notable for its stylish boomerang inspired base. $1399.
Kaloh dinnerware: Designed by Aaron Probyn, this dinnerware set is now available in a fabulous new turquoise colour way. It features a slightly textured, matte finish on the outside with a more translucent finish on the inside and its lines make it great for dressing your table up or down. From $10 per piece.
Inspired by a bohemian Balinese villa, the latest collection from Sage x Clare ‘Rumah’ is full of the gorgeous colours, prints and handmade artisanal details that put the brand on the map.
The collection was photographed at Bali’s Villa Wahah
“I happened to be holidaying in Bali a little over a year ago at the hidden gem that is Villa Bella Bali when the inspiration for the Rumah Collection was born. From there, we used vintage batik and indigenous fabric design as the foundation for the new range and gave it a Sage x Clare contemporary twist to produce a collection that embodies a laidback tropical summer spirit,” says founder and director Phoebe Bell.
So many gorgeous cushions!
Featuring a colour palette of aqua, tobacco, blue and pink, the collection has a lived-in vintage vibe. “I think many of us can agree that ochre, or tobacco, is really having a moment right now so we teamed this with other earthy colours like moss and scarlet to give the range some depth. Combined with soothing tropical colours and a few punches of peacock and flamingo, there’s really something in the range for everyone, regardless of where you sit on the colour spectrum. The colour palette is a beautiful nod to the tropical destination that inspired it,” says Phoebe.
As for her favourite piece, Phoebe is hard-pressed to decide but settles on the Pandawa Patchwork Bedcover. “In addition to being soooooo soft, it incorporates our seasonal prints through large abstract patchworks with hand embroidered stitching. It represents everything I love – clashing prints, a multitude of artisanal methods and that one-of-a-kind heirloom feel.”
This Pandawa Patchwork Bedcover is Phoebe’s favourite item from the range
As for another talking point from the range, Phoebe says the logo emblazoned bath mats have been a hit thus far. “If your readers have been living under a rock, then they really need to check out our Tula Nudie Bath Mats. We cannot get enough of these babies and they are the most perfect gift for the silly season, or any season for that matter. We have a final delivery this side of Christmas that’s about to hit and they never last long!”
I’m a fan of the text-free version too
Fun fabrics and prints aside, Sage x Clare made the headlines for all the wrong reasons recently when they fell victim to online fraud. “I placed an order with a longstanding Chinese supplier. Shortly after, the emails were intercepted by scammers, unbeknownst to me, and I communicated with them over a series of months. The email ID, email signature and general nature of the emails were all the same as previous dealings so nothing rang any alarm bells,” says Phoebe.
“Once my order was ready, they requested I transfer the funds to a new bank account, which suppliers can do from time to time. I requested supporting documentation, which the scammer provided, and I paid for the goods. I subsequently realised the whole thing had been a scam and it was too late to recover any of the funds,” says Phoebe.
I love that tassel blanket
Having since modified her practices, the terrible episode has left Phoebe with plenty of advice for fellow small businesses. “The best way to protect against this type of scam is to independently find the contact details of the supplier – don’t use those in the email signature. Then check with their accounts department that the account details you have are correct.”
Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green from Greenhouse Interiors and Noèl Coughlan assisted by Alison Lewis
“I wanted to create our own private resort where we could all entertain but walk to the beach and restaurants,” says Dayna Williams of her enormous resort-style home that is located on a double block in Main Beach on the Gold Coast. The house is home to Dayna, her husband Michael and their three children, 18-year-old Jackson, 13-year-old Emerson and three-year-old Lulu.
“We bought our home late last year because there are only three double home blocks in Main Beach. It’s a large house that suits our family of five perfectly. Our teenage boys have a lot of space and privacy to evolve, whilst we’re all still under the same roof,” says Dayna.
The gargantuan pool area
“I fell in love with the home years ago from pictures I had seen. It was almost an enigma in this suburb. A big white house with a ‘Sheraton Mirage’ pool construction, but no one really new how fabulous it was behind the expansive fence.
“We loved the fact that it sat on a double block and was like a private resort. It was a bit unloved as the previous owners lived between LA and Australia,” says Dayna who set about transforming it with plenty of inspiration drawn from The Beverly Hills Hotel – one of her favourite places.
“My husband and I have both spent time at The Beverly Hills Hotel over the years so I decided that I didn’t want another white house, and had it painted pink. We went to The Beverly Hills Hotel at Christmas time to match the colours and I sourced the Martinique wallpaper and fabrics and went about theming it.”
The bathroom features Martinique’s iconic banana leaf print wallpaper
The home is comprised of two structures that are joined, but each can be locked off separately if required. The boys occupy their own building which is no doubt the envy of most parents of teenagers! “Our teenage boys have one side which is three-level and has a lounge room, kitchen and laundry on the ground floor,” says Dayna. One of the boys occupies the first floor which is comprised of a bedroom, large walk-in closet with kitchenette, ensuite, TV room, bedroom and large patio, while the other has the second floor which is the same size but has a study and smaller balcony.
“Michael, Lulu and myself live in the main house. We built an extension over the triple garage to give us some extra space. We added a large bedroom for Lulu, 17 square metres of hanging wardrobe for myself and a bathroom. Michael also has a separate walk-in robe and ensuite,” says Dayna.
Unsuprisingly, Dayna has been inundated with photoshoot requests. “I have had a lot of interest and requests for photo shoots as it appears everyone wants a pink backdrop. It was suggested that I allow the pool area only to be photographed. Being our home, I only allow minimal shoots and none of the interior,” says Dayna.
W Brisbane opened recently, marking the re-entry of the playfully luxurious international hotel brand into Australia. Sitting on the banks of the Brisbane River, the hotel design took inspiration from the site with its overarching theme A River Dreaming developed by interior designer Nic Graham and Associates in collaboration with the multidisciplinary design studio Studio Ongarato.
W Brisbane
“Our first narrative-led hotel was for the W Hong Kong back in 2010. Using narrative at that time was uncommon. It successfully injected greater vibrancy into the brand and rewrote the rulebook for narrative-led hotel design. It offers a world within a world for experience hunters but ultimately it aims to engage, delight and transport,” says Studio Ongarato co-founder Fabio Ongarato.
Reception
And delight it certainly does, if the Instagram-ometer is anything to go by where the hotel spaces have received saturation coverage of late. “For W Brisbane we looked at the W brand DNA, which is bold, witty and shows a lust for life,” says Fabio.
Bar
“It’s a visual feast – gone are the beige and bull-nosed interiors of the past; design is at every corner. When it came to approaching W Brisbane, the W DNA was easy to weave in with the free and easy Aussie attitude. We’ve embraced colour, colonial heritage, modernity, ethnic and indigenous roots, a Brisvegas attitude and a sense of humour,” says Nic Graham.
Bar detail
A River Dreaming pays respect to the Dreaming of the Turrbal people, which sees the river as the giver of life. “The river banks and swamps supported many communities, including the early settlers, becoming the source of life and the place of many gatherings. The main idea behind the design was to create a place on the riverbank where gatherings will form, and city stories and legends will be created,” says Nic.
Hallway
“The ebbs and flows of the Brisbane River are evident in the curved designed features, namely in the bar and restaurant joinery and even subtly in the ballroom carpet. The river reeds, tidal markers, earthy river banks and the ambient life that it supports, are all evident in the choice of materials and finishes, along with the staircase being lined in reeds and sticks. These earthy, somewhat native and organic features that celebrate the physical location, are in contrast with the W brand story that taps into the heartbeat of the city,” says Nic.
Bedroom
As for his favourite part, Nic cites the pool area. “I’m thrilled with the pool area as we designed a very bold ceiling and pool interior to complement its undercover location – the mix of bold colours and patterns in the public spaces is our signature style,” says Nic.
The ah-mazing pool
The first five star hotel to open in Brisbane in 20 years, W Brisbane features 312 rooms with views over South Bank and west towards Mount Coot-tha, as well as dining, bar, pool, spa and yoga facilities. The hotel opened in June, with others scheduled to open in Melbourne and Sydney over the next two years.
“My work has been described by observers as dream-like and ethereal,” says self-taught abstract artist Michael Bond who paints in rich, signature style out of his studio in Noosa. Opulent in colour and with plenty of dramatic, dark hues, Michael is adept at building abstract textures and layers and his latest collection Eden is a celebration of flowers.
‘Laila night born’ by Michael Bond
“It’s sometimes hard to describe my own work, it’s abstract and gestural by nature, but more and more and particularly with the more recent work, there are elements that suggest something familiar like a bloom,” says Michael.
Michael in front of his work
Michael’s signature painting style uses layered acrylic, oil, pastel and graphite and he works on both large and small scale pieces. “I work mostly with acrylic as the faster drying times suit the way I work – different mediums allow different effects to be achieved such as wiping back and building texture,” says Michael.
‘Charlotte’Michael Bond
A hairdresser by trade, Michael has never received any formal art training. “I trained as a hairdresser from the time I left school and that career spanned 30 or so years, though art was always there in the background. It was only a few years back that I was able to focus fully on my artwork and call myself a ‘full time’ artist,” says Michael whose works now feature in private collections throughout Australia and overseas. His work also featured on The Block recently, in Bianca and Carla’s living room.
Michael’s work featured on The Block
“Inspiration comes to me in so many forms, I can be inspired purely by a colour or something I see on a morning walk with the dogs. I have to say living where we do at the moment has given me the most inspiration – we’re fortunate enough to live by the ocean and I’m always amazed by how the surrounding landscape is always changing,” says Michael of his Noosa home.
A former high school teacher, it took the birth of her first child for Sydney-based artist Celeste Wrona to really pursue her artistic aspirations. “Five years ago my first son Hugo was born, which meant stepping away from teaching to raise him. Living on very little sleep and with my new-found motherhood ‘superpowers,’ I decided it was time to start creating my own body of work and establish my career as an independent artist. Making this transition was challenging, not something every new mum might consider – in its own way symbolising my transition from the classical art tradition that formed my skills to the abstract beauty which is motherhood,” says Celeste.
‘Bougainvillea Dreaming III’
It’s a gamble that has paid off though given Celeste’s art career has really taken flight over the last four years. Her work has featured in major magazines, newspapers, blogs, galleries, art shows, retail stores and on television shows The Block and House Rules. You may have spotted her artwork in Bianca and Carla’s hallway on The Block last weekend.
Image via The Block Shop
“I’ve always believed that hard work pays off yet even I am amazed how in only four short years my art career has gone from strength to strength,” says Celeste.
‘Ghostly Gum’
“My work has been awarded for excellence in national and international art exhibitions, sought out for numerous bespoke commercial and residential fit outs across Australia. I’ve been commissioned for large scale installations like a three-storey custom artwork I created within a glass elevator shaft, and I continually collaborate with leading home builders and designers to display my art in display homes across Sydney,” says Celeste who juggles all of this with two young sons in tow. “Some days are chaos, as any parent would know, but I suppose that’s all part of the fun!” says Celeste.
Celeste’s work featured in Chris and Kim’s master bedroom on The BlockCeleste with Kim and Chris
A formally trained artist, Celeste graduated from The University of New South Wales’ College of Fine Arts in 2004 where she majored in drawing. “Many people might not know this about my practice, but I actually majored in drawing, following quite traditional techniques. My practice has evolved quite distinctly since then but I still really love the delicate lines and expression of drawing, which subtly features in my new collection,” says Celeste who uses ink, acrylic paint and mixed media to create her works.
Celeste with her elevator shaft art installation
“I would describe my work as an imagination’s playground! Curious, reflective and nostalgic. Full of colour, rich in textures and with a deep appreciation of organic form and tranquil line. Mostly abstract in nature, my works often reflect the beauty of nature,” says Celeste.
‘Exhale VIII’
“My artworks are often an abstract reflection and representation of the world around me, almost a celebration of life as it unfolds and the environment in which we live. I’m always drawn back to the raw beauty and complexity of nature and I find all the little subtle textures, colours and forms I come across have a profound impact on work. My artmaking is sometimes planned but often intuitive, a mindful sanctuary that facilitates a deeper level of personal awareness,” says Celeste.
Celeste at work on her latest collection
Celeste’s latest collection ‘Awaken’ will launch this November. “It incorporates my signature ink paintings with mixed media collage, to create beautifully arranged organic forms and ethereal line work, quite reminiscent of mountains or seascapes. Expect to see muted palettes of dusty pinks and sage contrasted with deep, punchy hues of moody blues, mustards and burgundy.”
I’ve long been a fan of illustrator, maker and all-round creative juggernaut Beci Orpin so when the folks at west elm invited us to peruse her new bedroom, we jumped at the chance. Located in Melbourne, the room is shared by Beci, her partner Raph and their gorgeous grey cat Tio.
“The style I use in my work is bold, graphic, colourful and feminine without being too girly. I would say my home style is the same, although I like it to be slightly more understated when it comes to our bedroom,” says Beci of the room that had a very definite design brief. “I wanted pops of colour, lush textures – but still with a feeling of calm, and I wanted it to fit in with the things I already have in my space,” says Beci.
One of the more notable colour pops are the blue velvet curtains that formed part of the restyle. “I always wanted to see what our bedroom looked like with velvet curtains – now they’re up I love them so much. They suit the room perfectly,” says Beci.
Beci with her cat Tio in her bedroom’s new reading nook
The rug is another standout and its playful bohemian vibe and gorgeous 70’s colours perfectly complement Beci’s style. “The Charm rug is a joy! Also having a chair in our room feels very grown up indeed and I love the warmth of the rusty colour too,” says Beci of the gorgeous velvet clad occasional chair that provides a cosy bed for Tio too.
Pretty as a picture: The rug, lamp, side table and chair are all from west elm
This isn’t the first time that Beci has collaborated with west elm having worked on special events and invitations for the brand in the past. “Professionally, we’ve worked with Beci a number of times for west elm and it’s always a joy collaborating with her,” says Lexi Kentmann who handles pr and brand marketing for west elm.
“Beci’s approach is a real celebration of Australian style – it’s warm, relaxed, collected and witty. Working together on this project was a dream – the colour, the creativity and the mixture of the collected and curated, while still paying homage to Beci’s style – honoured her joie de vivre,” says Lexi.
Beci’s new west elm bed and bedside tables work perfectly in the room
Post makeover, Beci is very happy with the space. “I love it – actually way more than I thought. I wake up daily feeling like I have my life together, because my bedroom is so beautiful! The pieces I had in our bedroom previously were all things I had collected over time, and I love how the west elm pieces fit in with those, and almost elevated them so they are shown in a whole new light,” says Beci.
Styling: Heather Nette King | Photography: Mike Baker
Having worked as a stylist and designer, I know first-hand that it’s not often you find a client willing to take a design risk. So when Birdblack Design interior designer Sarah Nolen’s latest project allowed her to use a very bold jungle-inspired tile she must have felt as if she’d hit the client jackpot.
Bathroom BEFOREBathroom AFTER
“The tile caught my eye when we were on a shopping excursion with our client. Given we had a good understanding of her personality I thought I’d test the waters and see what she thought. It was love at first sight!” says Sarah of the Di Lorenzo ‘Jane’ tiles that were used in this green-themed renovation in Kiama on the NSW south coast.
Bathroom BEFOREBathroom AFTER
Inspired by Jane of the Jungle, the Italian porcelain tile uses digital ink technology for a precise print and its selection ended up paving the way for the rest of the renovation. “The theme of green was born from our selection of the ‘Jane’ jungle tile. Green worked so well with the ironbark timber flooring and the soft white joinery and wall colours. It was an easy colour to incorporate into each room without it dominating the space,” says Sarah.
“Green works so well with all timber tones and the white marble of the benchtops. It also doesn’t dictate what you can do to the space. You can pair many other colours with it such as reds, mustards, purples and anything with an earthy tone.”
Bathroom AFTER
Aside from a brand new aesthetic, the bathroom’s layout is completely different too. In the middle of the house, the original bathroom had no access to natural ventilation. “The layout of the bathroom is a far cry from what it once was. The room can now function properly with adequate space around each designated area. When lounging back in the freestanding bath looking up at the tiles, you’ll feel like you’ve ducked off to a hidden paradise. The Velux skylight above the shower is also a highlight for me, not only functional but you can look up and see the stars at night,” says Jane.
The client loved the tile so much that it was used in the kitchen too – another space with a refreshed layout. “The old kitchen was situated right in the middle of the house away from any external walls. We made use of the adjacent slim sunroom and extended the kitchen into this space. New windows and doors were installed and the natural light now comes flooding in,” says Sarah. Ironbark timber floors, shaker style joinery in satin white and soft marble-look benchtops (Smartstone Amara) complete the look.
Kitchen BEFOREKitchen AFTER
“When we design we constantly look to the rooms adjoining the kitchen and bathrooms and see if there are options to better utilise the spaces together. In this case we were able to completely transform the old sunroom that was too skinny to even fit furniture in. By opening up this space we’ve now created an entertainer’s dream kitchen and the natural light that pours through this space breathes life into every nook and cranny,” says Sarah.
Inspired by mid-century modernist greats such as Picasso and Le Corbusier, Wallrus is the latest kid on the mural block and it’s the work of Sydney-based graphic design duo Danielle De Andrade and Paul Garbett of Garbett Design. And in a sea of so much monochrome, the arrival of Wallrus certainly makes for a refreshing change on the design scene.
The ‘Bueno’ design
“For a long time architects and interior designers have steered away from colour and many still don’t consider using it at all. But as designers, our job is to challenge, and we believe colour and pattern are an essential part of life. Our murals are a window into the rabbit hole, a way to bring wonder and magic into the everyday,” says Danielle De Andrade.
The ‘Blackrock’ design
The mural range is available online where you can customise it (literally any colour combo is available with the bespoke option) before having it printed directly onto vinyl or traditional wallpaper. The vinyl option can be easily installed and removed without damaging the wall surface and either option is amenable to DIY installation. Personally I think they are a perfect complement to a child’s room or a commercial space.
“Murals had their heyday during the middle of the 20th Century. The explosive colour, expressive shapes and abstract patterns were a joyous reinterpretation of the 13th Century Italian fresco. Murals are a key feature of some of the most iconic buildings of the 20th century,” says Paul Garbett. I can see the ghosts of Piet Mondrian and Joan Miro lingering in the Wallrus designs too.
Wallrus founders Danielle Andrade and Paul GarbettThe ‘Rand’ design
Not shy of colour, Le Corbusier himself had a pet Schnauzer named Paintbrush and was one of the first modern architects to embrace the spectrum. In fact, he once said that “colour in architecture is as powerful as the plan and section” which is echoed by Paul. “Architects start with light and volume and the arrangement of spaces and when that is done, they add materials, pattern and colour to make a building humane. That’s where we come in,” says Paul.
The ‘Egg’ designThe ‘Roppongi’ design
“We set out to offer something different in this space, something that would delight and bring joy,” says Danielle.
Proving yet again that it’s not a brand for wallflowers, Kip & Co’s latest collection ‘In Full Bloom’ is inspired by the “delicious maximalism of a colour-drenched, bountiful European spring,” according to the brand. Featuring Kip & Co’s signature eclectic mix of prints, texture and colour, the range draws heavily on the time the designers spent in Italy recently.
“This collection is inspired by the Italian spring and beautiful blooms. Melbourne winters sure can get the mind wandering to warmer faraway places. We love the elegance and colour of Italy – it all seems to come so easily to them. We are channelling some of the coastal colour and the muted tones of the bigger cities and throwing it back with big floral splashes,” says Kip & Co’s Hayley Pannekoecke.
The adult bedding range features florals combined with creeping vines, stripes and citrus fruit motifs and the brand’s signature linen and velvet are back in gorgeous spring inspired tones – think lemon meringue, pink bellini, saffron and hazelnut.
Also, it wouldn’t be a properly Italian inspired range without some sort of animal print. “I love everything in our gorgeous new Tarzan velvet as I am an absolute sucker for an animal print. I love the aprons and tea towels in Tarzan also!” says Hayley.
New additions to the range include a Euro-chic collection of metallic leather bag goods. “Kate, Alex and I all travel quite a bit and with an equal obsession for anything metallic it seemed essential to design a range that we could take our cosmetics and laptops with us in style,” says Hayley.
There’s also a gorgeous array of holiday-worthy kaftans too. “Kate and I have just spent the past month soaking up the Sicilian summer wearing these babies and they will be a staple for this summer in Australia too. I just throw them over my cossie and head to the beach,” says Hayley.
The gorgeous waffle kaftans are set to be a summer staple
The kids and baby offering includes cheeky prints inspired by outer space, the ocean and the jungle emblazoned across bedding, blankets, bags, beanbags play mats and bamboo swaddles. The popular banana blanket is back by customer demand also.
The banana blanket is back by popular demand!I love that koala print!
While we brought you some gorgeous coloured bathroom sinks recently, there are lots of fabulous coloured sink options hitting the market for kitchens too. From navy to pink, copper and gold, we’re loving the statement sink trend.
Abey The Abey Schock range is available in three fabulous colours – millennial dive (navy), millennial cliff (pink) and millennial pearl (grey). Not only are these gorgeous coloured sinks a true statement but they’re also dirt repellent, antibacterial and made from up to 80 per cent natural quartz sand making them super hardy too. No prizes for guessing which colour Jen is in love with!
Bunnings The Bunnings Decorium Light Gold Double Bowl Sink is a fabulous affordable alternative that can be vouched for by our Jen. It can be installed for inset or undermount applications.
Jen’s gold Bunnings sink in her kitchen. Pic by Jacqui Turk
Oliveri Available in undermount, top mount or flush mount iterations this glamorous copper sink is rather fabulous! Part of the Oliveri Spectra range, it’s available in single, double and 1.5 bowl versions and also comes in titanium and stainless steel finishes too.
Villeroy & Boch
Created by product and interior designer Gesa Hansen, this ceramic sink from Villeroy & Boch is available in Sunrise (yellow), Midnight (blue), Emerald and Coral. “Kitchens are increasingly turning into living spaces, they are no longer cool and sterile. Colour takes away the cold character of a kitchen sink and integrates it into the room,” says Gesa Hansen.
Artinox
The Artinox ‘Titanium’ colour coated range is a statement sink standout. The sink is manufactured in three colour ways (anthracite, copper and gold) and in three different sizes that can be mixed and matched to create a custom double sink too.
The 2019 Dulux colour forecast ‘Filter’ is upon us and it’s divided into four palettes with names that sound less like paint and more like something from a therapy session. ‘Repair,’ ‘Wholeself,’ ‘Legacy’ and ‘Identity’ all point towards a more introspective year, notwithstanding the exhilarating brights within.
The Legacy palette. This image features Dulux ‘Legendary Lilac’ (front wall), ‘Purple Verbena’ (rear wall) and ‘Lexicon Half’ on the ceiling.
“Filter speaks to our collective craving for individuality and personal expression. It helps us mindfully tap out all the distractions and focus on the things that move and inspire us,” says Dulux Colour Expert Andrea Lucena-Orr of the palettes that are inspired by extensive global trends research.
The Identity palette. This image features Dulux ‘Vivid White’, ‘Pelican Bill Half’ and ‘Painted Clay.’
“Our confidence with colour is growing, and with this the drive to create spaces that reflect our history, hopes and dreams. Mindful consumption is a key theme for 2019 and we can expect to see a paring back of the unnecessary and a greater emphasis on repurposing and reimagining objects surrounding us. The result is a new kind of bespoke where the traditions of the past are celebrated in dynamic and modern ways,” says Andrea.
Repair “Repair is my favourite palette of 2019. I love its muted, tonal combinations and slightly off-beat, vintage feel. It sets a warm, nurturing mood in a space and creates the perfect backdrop for timber, leather and unusual collectibles,” says Andrea of the colour grouping that includes earthy neturals, rich greens and spicy notes of cinnamon and sienna – all drawn from a desire reconnect with nature.
The Repair palette. This room features Dulux ‘Plasticine’ and ‘Sea Creature.’
Wholeself Perhaps a byproduct of the wellness trend, ‘Wholeself’ was borne out of a desire to move away from our devices and embrace a quiet stillness.
The Wholeself palette. The room features Dulux ‘Silver Thaw’ and ‘Madame Mauve.’
“From our global research it’s clear there will be an emphasis on wellness and mindfulness in 2019 and the Wholeself palette really plugs into these themes. With its soft, light tones and subtle layering of texture, it’s a palette to ignite the senses and revive a tired spirit. It’s also easy to decorate with existing whites and cool neutrals, which I believe will make it a popular choice for home enthusiasts,” says Andrea. Think mauve-grey, powdery pinks and touches of gold.
Legacy A palette of intense, saturated hues, ‘Legacy’ combines deep purple, russet and aqua offset by brown-based pink tones. “The Legacy palette is timeless yet thoroughly modern. Think rich colour, classic furniture and sumptuous textiles used in unexpected ways. For example, these colours may be set against a streamlined backdrop or styled with an industrial edge,” says Andrea.
The Legacy palette. This image features Dulux ‘Shepherd’s Warning,’ ‘Federation Brown,’ ‘Pink Linen Half’ and ‘Lexicon Half.’
And as we noted a few months ago, much-maligned purple is back. “Purple has emerged as a base colour and is softened by paler shades of lilac and mauve – it’s a palette to push your creative boundaries,” says Andrea.
This image features Dulux ‘Purple Verbena’ on the wall and ‘Lexicon Half’ on the ceiling.
Identity Speaking to the anti-establishment among us, ‘Identity’ celebrates clashing patterns, eclecticism and bright hues. “Featuring striking blues, purples and shades of citrus, this palette encourages you to incorporate a playful side into your décor. These colours command you to be brave and experiment with unique looks in the home. They translate particularly well in the bedroom – a nurturing space that’s all about you. Paint the door, a piece of furniture or a feature nook in a bright and invigorating shade and watch the room come to life,” says Andrea.
‘Identity’ palette. This image (and the one below) features Dulux ‘Vivid White’, ‘Blue Bayou,’ ‘Red Clown’ and ‘Painted Clay.’
‘Colour Conscience’ is the latest addition to the Haymes Paint colour library (Volume 11 to be exact) and it features three distinct palettes that bear distinctly un-paint-like names. ‘Cohabitate,’ ‘Contribute’ and ‘Comfort’ run the gamut from sweet pastel colours to masculine, monochromatic schemes.
Cohabitate palette
Cohabitate is a fresh, uplifting, sorbet-hued palette and the most strongly feminine of the three. Think peachy pink (‘Streamwood’), warm grey (Greyology 3), a gorgeous pale blue (‘China Blue’) and the yellow-toned ‘Antique White’ which are all about creating spaces that nuture, foster togetherness, recharge and reinvigorate their inhabitants.
Cohabitate palette
Haymes Paint suggests styling these colours with blonde woods, terrazzo inspired flooring and accessories, gloss and matte finishes and geometric shapes.
Cohabitate palette
In contrast, Contribute is all about moody monochromatic colours – dark greys (‘Castlegate’), deep browns and mid-tone neutrals (‘Memory). So while there’s a distinct lack of colour variety to this palette, Haymes suggests it’s all about layering up mixed materials for a strong, textural feel.
Contribute palette
Style this monochromatic palette back with natural materials such as marble, stone, travertine and wood alongside stainless steel, greenery and ceramic items for a moody, luxe vibe.
Contribute palette
Comfort combines dark green (‘Black Olive’) and teal (‘Viking’) with two-tone reds (‘Berry Juice’ and ‘Nostalgia Rose’) for a sumptuous feel designed to cocoon.
Comfort palette
Encouraging calm, these dark intense tones inspire rest and quiet and look fabulous paired with tactile materials such as velvet and rattan. Lush, dreamy bedding layers including textured throws and cushions finish off the look.
Victorian-based Irish artist Kaz Morton is back with a stunning new collection ‘Arch 19’ that was inspired by a Christmas trip to Paris with her sister. “At the time the Seine was flooding and I was so drawn to the bridge arches because they looked like they were floating. In this range, the arch shape from the bridge has followed through in a more simplified line, and other symbols have been added in a type of ceramic iconography,” says Kaz.
Arch motifs feature throughout the collectionGorgeous handmade bowls and vessels
Kaz explains that the inspiration and stories behind the pieces are not always literal but rely heavily on symbolism. “The ceramics do not necessarily tell a story, but the symbols are present in each piece and each have their own meaning,” says Kaz.
I love this ‘Rainbow’ wall hanging
A first for the artist, Kaz has delved into wall art with this collection with the ‘Looksie’ eye piece proving a hit and the ‘Rainbow’ wall hanging rather gorgeous too. “The eye features heavily and has proved to be the most popular piece so far. I made a ceramic eye as I loved the idea of the tableware being extended to the wall. The ‘Looksie’ eye watches over you! It keeps you safe and creates a great focal point in any room,” says Kaz of the piece that has gone to the top of my wish list!
The ‘Looksie’ eye wall hanging is a collection highlight
Another standout creation is the ‘Hourglass’ bowl which is actually a two-for-one offering. “There are lots of fun, playful pieces in this range. The ‘Hourglass bowl’ is actually two bowls and one is slightly smaller than the other to cater for different food quantities. I love watching people pick up this piece and realise that it contains two bowls,” says Kaz.
The ‘Hourglass’ bowl
A fine art painter from way back, Kaz gave up her beloved past time when she was pregnant but picked up the brush again recently after a very long break. “I have started painting again which I am really enjoying and with each range I have brought out a small series of originals which have been sell outs. I am loving returning to painting after a break of nearly 12 years when I had to give it up because of my pregnancy. I couldn’t stand the small of the paint and turps,” says Kaz.
“Painting is so mental as opposed to physical (like the ceramics are) and I love having that outlet one day a week,” says Kaz.
It’s ironic really. Avoca-based artist Anna Fitzpatrick paints exquisite still lives when her life is anything but still. With a baby and two year old in tow, it begs the question – just how does she do it? “Managing the juggle is a big effort to be honest! It’s hard work! I have found that it is pointless trying to paint while Sophia and Isabella are awake as they always want to join in, which is lovely of course, but perhaps does not always render the results that are desired!” says Anna who has become nocturnal our of necessity of late.
Anna Fitzpatrick with one of her works
“I plan my paintings while the girls are napping during the day and paint at night time when everyone has been safely tucked into bed. But I love painting at night as there’s a certain quiet excitement that suffuses the air around 10 o’clock. Colours deepen, flowers ripen, the mind becomes still and focused and it all comes pouring forth,” says Anna.
With no formal hands-on training (Anna completed a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communications while studying art history), Anna believes her artistic journey began as a child where she grew up in a creative family in Melbourne. “My mother would take us to Heide gallery often where we were immersed in the artworks of Boyd, Tucker, Perceval, Nolan and Olsen. I then spent many of my formative years trawling the great galleries of Europe and the USA drawing, sketching and soaking up every detail that I could. I feel this has given me as good an education as any!” says Anna.
“Like a lot of artists I am loathe to describe my own work but I suppose my real hope is to create something beautiful that people will want to look at. My artwork is an instinctual response to the beautiful, vibrating world around us. I absolutely adore colour, so maybe I’m a colourist at heart, and I adore the natural world. I am lured by the seduction of abstraction yet I am enthusiastic about figuration. Ultimately, I am striving to make art that will resonate with the viewer on a basic human level. Something that will bring them joy,” says Anna.
“I am inspired by many things, everything really. A good song, a smell, art and architecture, people, books. My greatest inspiration though, is the natural world in all its chaotic beauty. Being outside in the elements, the wind the sunlight, hearing the hum of cicadas, diving off a rock into the sea – that is enough to get my creative juices flowing!” says Anna.
Titled ‘Moonflower,’ Anna’s latest collection is comprised of 16 still life pieces with a particular focus on flowers. “It’s a celebration of flowers and also those magic windows of time within the day – the late afternoon, sunset and the gloaming where the light and temperature change, the sun sets and the moon rides off into the sky. I’ve tried to capture a sense of that ephemeral glow in some of these artworks with the moon as my mirror and all the flowers my players on the stage,” says Anna.
Anna Fitzpatrick’s ‘Moonflower’ exhibition runs from this Saturday 25 August to Friday 7 September 2018 at Saint Cloche gallery (37 MacDonald St, Paddington NSW).
This home first came to my attention when it was a finalist in this year’s Dulux Colour Awards. Given the rainbow palette within, it’s easy to see why the house was given a nod in the paint brand’s annual celebration of clever colour use. Located in the Melbourne suburb of Balwyn North, this original 1960’s home sits on a large, leafy block and was renovated by Melbourne’s WOWOWA Architecture. A riot of colour, the home has a truly joyful feel.
Lounge
With a design brief that placed colour at the top of the list, WOWOWA Architecture directors Monique and Scott Woodward set about redesigning the home’s internal spaces to make them more compatible with modern family life. “For us it was about working with the quirks of the original house, finding ways to celebrate what was here,” says Monique. Championing the home’s original 1960’s aesthetic has certainly paid off – the result is a highly original family home that screams fun.
Bathroom
“In referencing the era, we were conscious of designing a home that was very much its own space. We didn’t want it to be kitsch, or feel nostalgic in a way that was pastiche. Just optimistic,” says Monique. The owners had five specific colours in mind when commencing the renovation – pink, yellow, blue, green and orange feature on brightly painted doors, feature lighting and bright carpets throughout. Judicious use of timber anchors the wayward palette.
Kitchen
The kitchen is a design highlight – three multi-coloured translucent Kartell pendant lights hang above a large timber island bench that doubles as an extra dining space. The bench top’s side profile was inspired by the shape of a lamb chop, a reference to the Greek owners’ carnivorous preferences.
The kitchen bench profile echoes a lamb chop
Located on the ground floor, the master bedroom is a sumptuous treat. Lined with timber panelling, the room features a shock of fuchsia carpet on the floor, brass closet handles sourced from the US and a vintage robe that doubles as a bedhead and storage unit.
Master bedroomChild’s bedroom
Outside, the timber takes centre stage again – the backyard is a fabulous entertaining spot that remains fairly unchanged save for the addition of steps. “The steps were designed to provide different tiered spaces for people to hang out,” says Monique.
Backyard
Photography: Martina Gemmola | Styling: Ruth Wesby
We’ve long been fans of Melbourne digital artist Kimmy Hogan. A graphic designer by trade, she spent many months developing a technique that combines her love of botanicals and oil painting with a digital brush. ‘Gathered’ is her latest collection and it was inspired by the look and feel of flowers freshly picked.
The ‘Gathered’ collection
“I wanted this collection to look loose and relaxed – just the way you would throw together some flowers you have gathered from your own garden. Messy and beautiful,” says Kimmy whose limited edition works are available through Greenhouse Interiors where she is the top selling artist in Julia Green’s stable.
“That just blows my mind – completely! I feel so privileged to be represented by Julia who works so hard for all of her artists. I could never have imagined that my art was going to have the success that it has – I feel really grateful it has been so well received and I’m really enjoying the journey it’s taken me on.”
‘Gathered III’
As for a favourite piece, Kimmy is most taken with Gathered IV which crops in on some detail. “I like that it has a really loose more abstract feel where the elements are free to dance all over the page. It’s one that could be hung in any direction, depending on how you prefer it,” says Kimmy.
‘Gathered IV’ is Kimmy’s favourite piece from the new range
You’d better be quick though as this collection has a more limited run than Kimmy’s previous ones, with only 30 prints per piece.
‘Gathered I’“My business has grown and evolved alongside my family and I. Hiring my assistant Rose a year ago was the best thing I ever did – it was essential to have the extra hands to keep up with demand but it also means I can focus more on the creative process. And with three little boys to raise I have less time in the studio, so I’ve really focused on getting streamlined systems in place,” says Kimmy.
Kimmy Hogan ‘Gathered’ collection prints start at $310.
Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green for Greenhouse Interiors
Based almost exclusively around nature, the Spring/Summer 2018 collection of affordable art from Urban Road is called ‘Reminisce’ and it certainly does have a warm, nostalgic vibe. There’s plenty of blooms and foliage alongside ocean vistas and depictions of the night sky and the palette runs the full colour spectrum too, meaning there’s plenty of choice.
The statement ‘Flourish’ print features a magnolia unfurling‘Monkey Mia’ print
“Urban Road’s latest release feels like sifting through old photographs. Starlit skies, sleepy seashores and sunburned landscapes – a breathtaking recollection of memories unaffected by time, an invitation to Reminisce,” says Suzie Atkin, the creative director of Urban Road.
I love the fabulous palette of this ‘Australian Flora’ print
Looking to the Australian landscape, there’s plenty of intricate native flora and vast landscapes captured with light and colour. “A sense of timelessness is felt in constellations, reflected in the facets of semi-precious stones; blurred mountain ranges standing soft, yet resolute; the unfading beauty of black and white icons,” says Suzie in reference to one of the prints – a black and white painterly depiction of Deborah Harry.
Deborah Harry stars in the ‘Call Me’ print‘Fire Opal’ print
“While each artwork stands perfectly in solitude, the culmination of pieces is a collection that assembles itself like a show reel of memories, created to be relived over and over again,” says Suzie. Standouts for me include the ‘Australian Flora’ and ‘Fire Opal’ print – I love their gorgeous burgundy shades. The Australiana-inspired pieces such as the ‘Coolibah’ signal a fresh direction for the brand too.
‘Coolibah’ print
Aside from affordable art, the Urban Road collection now includes home decor items, acrylic artworks, and, most recently, a diverse poster collection. All up, the brand’s catalogue now boasts over 1000 items.
