There was a time when cut-price furniture and accessories rarely produced more than a cut-price result but that’s not the case anymore. Fantastic Furniture had a rebrand a few years ago and with that came a shift towards more trends-based pieces that wouldn’t look out of place in more expensive stores. Here are 10 of our current faves.
Niva desk: Perfect for small spaces, this compact desk also doubles as a hallway table. It sports a slim profile, curved edges and a single drawer to tuck away the essentials. $249.
Lombok bookcase: Made from rattan, this bookcase is perfect for coastal or bohemian abodes and is available online only. $369.
Nube armchair: Perfect for those wanting to dip their toes into the boucle trend without breaking the bank, this chair is a versatile piece. We love its on-trend, organic curves. This is another online only piece. $1,099.
House single bed: Available in white and natural, this children’s bed design is a bit of a modern classic. Gender-neutral and with a touch of whimsy, what’s not to love? $399.
Palemo coffee table: Designed with a contemporary pedestal base, this chic black coffee table is made from stainless steel and would suit a variety of spaces. Online only. $429.
Fiesta rug: Made in Turkey, this 230cm x 160cm rug has fun, Aztec vibes that make it perfect for a family, playroom or nursery alike. $169.
Set of two Venn planters: Made from perforated iron, this pair of planters are perfect for elevating your greenery inside. Online only. $129.
Trinity three seater sofa: As part the brand’s Australian made MyChoice range, this sofa is available in over 50 fabrics. You can choose from bold patterns, versatile neutrals, or vibrant colours like this watermelon pink. $599.
Hera door mat: Another online only product, this fun, patterned mat is great for those looking to brighten up their home’s entrance. $55.
Portofino bookcase: This bookcase features a walnut herringbone finish on the shelves combined with a gold, metal frame for a stylish storage solution. Pair it with other pieces from the Portofino range for a seamless look. $369.
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Growing up in Tasmania, as a competitive equestrian, Sydney’s Kate Berry has a long association with horses. “I’ve always had a connection to horses and the equestrian lifestyle. I gave up riding for my career and ended up in London working in luxury PR,” says Kate. But it was after returning from the UK, when Kate was doing some freelance PR for an equestrian company, that she noticed a gap in the market.
“I had to source some beautiful gifts for some clients. There was nothing in Australia that was of any quality – that really reflected that beautiful, aspirational equestrian style,” says Kate who subsequently launched an equestrian themed online homewares store in 2017, Just Gorgeous Things.
Just Gorgeous Things’ new Parramatta store features five rooms of equestrian themed wares
“I’ve always loved the high-end equestrian aesthetic as seen with the likes of Hermes, Gucci and Ralph Lauren, but could never find beautiful but accessible pieces with as much appeal in the Australian market,” who has just opened a complementary bricks and mortar store in Parramatta.
The five-room emporium is filled with horse themed furniture and homewares and services an equestrian clientele as well as a more general one. “I have found it fascinating how equestrian style resonates with many people that aren’t horsey. It’s a style that works in all sorts of homes from Hamptons to French provincial,” says Kate.
As for the store’s location, Kate explains that it is central to her equestrian clients that come in from Dural, Richmond, Windsor, the Southern Highlands and more to purchase her wares.
The brand’s leather furniture pieces are some of its most popular items
The business also has a styling arm where Kate services equestrian as well as regular clients. She started doing high-end stables and viewing arenas before moving the aesthetic into homes. “I have high-end equestrian customers and get to work on incredible projects. Recently I put a beautiful wine cellar into an American style stable block in Queensland.”
Kate is hoping that the Paramatta store is the first of many with future interstate stores within her sights. “I love retail and homewares and would love to expand the business. Ultimately, it has grown to what it is today because people are drawn to that gorgeous, aspirational equestrian style.”
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Whether a space-saver for a multi-child family, another way of squeezing an extra mattress into a small room, or a fabulous way to furnish a holiday home, the bunk bed has myriad uses. Some of the latest thoughtful designs can be converted into two single beds, should your needs change. Clever!
Fantastic Furniture Jordan bunk bed: Available in black, white and grey this simple and stylish design is priced at a very affordable $429. You can also separate the bunks and use them separately should you need to.
Snooze Charlie bunk frame: Australian made, this design is made from zero emissions MDF and comes in a variety of fun water based painted options from aqua to orange and charcoal. $1799.
The Charlie combo bunk frame is also available as a single/double and king single/queen
Luxo Living Brook timber house design twin bunk bed: This cute cubby design is super low to the ground making it perfect for a family with a very young child. It’s available in Scandi-inspired timber or white. $439.
B2C Furniture Myer triple bunk bed with storage: Made from sustainable hardwood timber, this space saving design sports a single bed on top, a double below and under-bed storage drawers on wheels. $999.
Boori Natty single bunk bed: This versatile design can be used as a guarded single bed then converted into a loft bed or bunk bed depending on your family’s needs. The top bunk has a cute tray attached to the side to hold essentials. It’s available in two white and timber finishes as well as a pretty pink and dusty blue. $1299.95 with two beds.
Amart Captain Jack bunk bed: A simple, compact design (made from MDF and timber), this bunk bed is ideal for small to medium spaces. $699.
IKEA Mydal bunk bed frame: An affordable, solid wood option, this bunk can be recycled when your children move way from home which ups its eco-credentials. $349.
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Located in Sydney’s Walsh Bay, this two-storey, three-bedroom apartment is the work of the celebrated interior designer, and Interiors Addict favourite, Greg Natale. From the sumptuous architectural curves to the voluptuous furniture and beautiful muted palette, this project is a softer take on Greg’s signature, patterned aesthetic.
The double-height ceiling makes a dramatic statement in the living room
“The brief requested ‘plenty of curves’ as well as a delicate palette and the use of modern European furniture. The owner wanted a soft, contemporary space filled with fluid lines,” says Greg. Curves aside, the home’s colour palette is rather gorgeous – cinnamon, mustard, violet and grey give the spaces a sophisticated yet playful edge.
Living room
A deftly executed space, the living room is one of the most striking parts of the property – from a custom made and curved stairway to curved walls, a built-in bench and cabinetry, the space challenges the limits of Gyprock. Crafted from the brand’s Flexible plasterboard range, the product is designed to bend for small radius curves and it certainly helped Greg achieve that shapely design brief.
Gorgeous artwork and accessories pepper the spaces
“When I’m designing a space, the walls and ceilings are among my first considerations. They’re an essential layer of the architecture, and a wonderful way of introducing pattern into the framework of a room, helping to define its look and add interest and drama,” says Greg.
Kitchen
The kitchen features soft grey marble, brass and statement pendant lights as well as a gorgeous colour palette that merges pink and yellow with white and grey.
The master bedroom is a unique space with its open-plan design. The bed sits adjacent to a walk-in robe while a freestanding bath sits alongside a fully furnished living area. “The master bedroom and ensuite, with its organic lines, continue the apartment’s blend of luxury and comfort in which curves and colours combine to create a sophisticated, serene space,” says Greg.
Master bedroom
The Gyprock Flexible plasterboard range was used in this room too where the bulkheads, containing services, were crafted into a curved feature. “Utilising curves in the ceiling coffers resulted in a restrained and elegant layer of detail that suits the soft palette of the space and continues its story of curves.”
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As old blue eyes said, New York really is the city that never sleeps. From the galleries and museums to the architecture, shopping and incredible food, it’s hard to get much rest in the city – especially as a tourist with limited time on ground. And while a Big Apple trip is off the cards for the foreseeable, here’s my selection of homewares that might just transport you there – even for just a New York minute.
MOMA Mondri vase: In a city brimming with incredible museums and galleries it’s tough to pick a favourite but MOMA will always have my heart. With all the New York art greats housed under one roof (think Pollock, Warhol, Basquiat and Haring), it is a must-see destination. The gallery houses a couple of Piet Mondrian pieces also and this fabulous vase takes me right back. $153.
Jonathan Adler: The New Jersey born designer got his big break in New York when his first pottery line was picked up by Barneys. The opening of his very first standalone store in Soho ensued and the rest is history. And while his brand now encompasses furniture, textiles and everything in between, it’s his ceramics that I still find most covetable.
Anthropologie: A New York trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the eclectic homewares and fashion emporium Anthropologie. Thankfully Aussies are able to get our Anthro-fix online and these are my top two picks. The cotton throw is by Marcello Velho (the whole range is rather gorgeous) and the decorative chain link comes in on-trend terracotta too.
Chrysler Building art prints: When it comes to New York skyscrapers the Empire State Building gets a lot of attention but the Chrysler Building is my hands-down fave. It’s Art Deco styling is a sight to behold at close range (the sun-burst like detail and gargoyles in particular) and these prints do a good job of capturing the building’s magic.
Temple & Webster Odessa shelving unit: Another enduring classic that arose from the New York loft aesthetic, this industrial style shelving unit is the perfect spot to showcase your favourite books and trinkets. $469.
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Given we are officially in spring, it’s the perfect time to ponder how you can best utilise your outdoor space come summer. From statement chairs to a fabulous fire pit (it can get cool at night in the shoulder seasons!), there’s some fabulous new outdoor furniture on the scene.
Coco Republic: Always a reliable destination for stylish outdoor wares, the summer 2021 range contains eighty new pieces and plenty to get excited about. From statement accent chairs to the most stylish fire pit we’ve seen, the range has a whiff of stylish desert minimalism about it.
The Shore collection features a flowing stainless-steel frame highlighted by durable rope weaving detail
The Newton lounge features dynamic angles and has a masculine feel
The Lobo occasional chair has a chic, minimalist silhouette
The gorgeous Ponti firepit
GlobeWest: The Globewest Outdoor 2022 collection is comprised of three entirely new ranges and 73 fresh furniture styles. “Cocooning forms, half-moon silhouettes and rounded elements invite mindful moments in the sun, whilst tones and textures are shaped by the Australian landscape,” says GlobeWest head of creative, Keti Lytras. The new pieces are crafted from a palette of soft neutrals including earthy tones of clay and moss.
Wilomena sofa
Aruba chair
Ossa table
Mauritius rocking chair
King Living: Exuding a simple, casual luxury, the latest outdoor range from King Living draws on some of the brand’s most popular indoor pieces. “Our new pieces share their aesthetic with indoor furniture, but are designed to withstand the harshest of climates and full sun and wind, and remain internally dry even during the heaviest downpours,” says King Living global head of product design, David Hardwick.
In the foreground, we love the organically shaped Lode ottoman designed by Charles WilsonThe Quay II range is super fresh
Osier Belle: Founded by Australian designer Penny Camplisson, the Ossier Belle outdoor range is made with high-quality materials designed to last. We like the mid-century inspired Bulle sofa (and its woven frame) while the stylish Lux sofa proves less often really is more.
The Bulle sofa featured with the brand’s outdoor cushions
Lux sofa
Lux sofa
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Swedish furniture giant IKEA will hold its first global 24-hour festival from 4pm EST on Thursday 16 September with notable artists, designers, DJs, chefs and more turning their homes into virtual stages. Delivered entirely online and taking place in more than 50 countries, the program will feature intimate concerts and DJ relays plus home visits with people like the celebrated designer Ilse Crawford, food demos with popular chefs, livestream gaming sessions, ‘behind the scenes’ at IKEA, kitchen talks and more.
“At a time when so many Australians understand the importance of their home, we’re excited to be able to bring a new energy into people’s lives and spaces through this 24-hour cultural experience. There’s something for everyone at IKEA Festival, and to make it even more relevant for Aussies, we’ll be sharing a range of tips and tricks from our local IKEA Australia designers on how to enhance different areas of their homes”, says Christine Gough, country home furnishing and retail design manager at IKEA Australia.
Festival highlights include ‘Home Visits’ which are perfect for interiors voyeurs. Step inside the homes of the British furniture and interior designer Ilse Crawford where she will be sharing her thoughts on the home and timeless design.
Interior designer Ilse Crawford
The ‘IKEA Museum’ event invites you to go back in time and explore everything that has made and shaped IKEA. It will include “the good, bad, beautiful and ugly” according to the brand.
‘IKEA News’ allows you travel the globe and meet IKEA co-workers and collaborators – in-store, at the factory, at the office or in the studio. Former collaboration partner Virgil Abloh will take part in this event.
The ‘Home Makeovers’ event will feature plenty of home decorating tips such as how to create better storage, how to create a cooking-friendly kitchen and simple ways you can accessorise your home.
The ‘Home Cooking’ event grants access to chefs such as Flynn McGarry, Pasta Queen and Paul Svensson who will be cooking up old and new favourites while sharing their cooking tips and tricks.
Celebrity American chef Flynn McGarry will be part of the program
‘My Home Turf’ is a music event where artists such as MØ, Kanis, Niki and Masego showcase their cities, neighbourhoods, and communities, and treat you to a performance. ‘DJ Relay’ is another one for club music lovers with sets delivered from DJs at home including Kaytranada, Loraine James and Zuli, to name a few.
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A desire to offer quality designer furniture without the inflated price tag led David Janovic to leave a successful career at Goldman Sachs in 2012 to start his ecommerce business. Almost a decade later and RJ Living has evolved to offer unique furniture and homewares for every room in the house, with the same commitment to in-house design and great customer service.
With many cheaper, fast furniture brands to compete with, their longevity is no mean feat. They actually started as an eBay store, evolving over the years to a team of more than 20 and a flagship Richmond furniture showroom. “Being a bootstrapped business, it’s our customers who have fuelled all our growth, and it’s something we’ll never forget or take for granted,” David says.
“We don’t think of ourselves as just a furniture business, we’re a design-led brand, inspired by global trends that help us deliver original designs that truly represent the laidback Australian lifestyle,” says David. “We have a curated offering, selectively producing products that we feel our customers will love. We’re always looking to the future, developing new ranges and keeping across ecommerce trends to ensure wherever our customers interact with RJ Living, they’re having the best possible experience.”
There are no automated bots and customers will always speak to a passionate and knowledgeable real person! “We love learning about our customers and how they want to transform their space, and being accessible for these insightful conversations is a key focus of ours,” David says.
In-house design is a key differentiator and at the core of everything they do. “We pride ourselves on a fantastic website, sales and customer care experience, but ultimately it’s our product range that speaks for us, especially as our customers will own an RJ Living piece for many years.”
David says you can’t truly create furniture for the Australian lifestyle unless you’re experiencing it yourself every day. “We’re always keeping an eye on Australian and global furniture trends and bringing those into our customers’ homes in our own way. It’s about creating with our customers in mind, to ensure seamless functionality and longevity in their homes for many years to come.”
So, what is this distinctly Australian way of life they’re designing for? It’s easygoing and friendly and with a love of the outdoors, David says. “That love for the outdoors and wanting to enhance the natural beauty of the home serves as a key inspiration for much of our range.”
Home has taken on a new meaning since the pandemic, with people really wanting to surround themselves with a space they truly love and is responsive to how they live. “We’re actively incorporating more tactility into our range, whether it be natural finishes, textural fabrics or woven rattan, which helps create a rounded space for spending extended time in,” David says. “We’re also focusing on versatile furnishings, allowing our customers to create spaces that are multi-use, while also visually appealing.”
RJ Living want you to love your home so much you never want to leave it (and with some of us currently in lockdown, that’s not a bad vision!).
Most of their customers are women in their 30s and 40s who are looking for something different to the mainstream. RJ Living consider their pricing to be mid-range, and very affordable for the quality. “We are concerned that the growth in disposable furniture is causing a negative environmental impact and we want our pieces to have a sustainable impact and longevity. We use sustainable materials wherever possible, ensuring the life of the furniture we are selling is extended as much as possible.”
At any point in its life, their solid oak furniture range can be lovingly renewed. Sanding and recoating will strip back a formed patina, and can push past stubborn stains and give the piece a new lease of life. “With legal measures protecting woodlands, all timber in our pieces is responsibly logged, ensuring longevity and care for these forests. Sustainability has become a key pillar in our design program, and something that we take very seriously.”
Storage pieces have been a big focus for the brand and their tv units, sideboards, buffets, and beds are hugely popular. A staff favourite is the Linear Range, which is an homage to weatherboard homes along the Australian coastline. “Our bestsellers constantly change and as we introduce new pieces to the range. Seeing designs we’ve brought to life receiving customer love is a massively rewarding experience for us.”
A big focus in 2021 is broadening their horizons and introducing new textures. They’re introducing a walnut furniture range, and there’ll be additions to their marble and rattan furniture ranges. “We also have a completely new project launching later in the year which we’re incredibly excited about. All we can say for now is that it’s of the upholstered variety, and to keep an eye out for more news!”
Ever evolving the customer experience as well as their range, they’ll soon introduce 3D and AR functionality to their website. Customers will be able to see a more detailed view of furniture pieces, as well as test them out in their homes, from the comfort of their screen. They’re also planning to introduce in-house delivery trucks, meaning they can provide the best end to end purchase experience.
Love the sound of all this? One lucky reader will win a $3000 voucher to spend at RJ Living. Simply complete the form below for your chance.
Not open to associates of Addicted Media or RJ Living and their immediate families. Open to Australian residents only. No cash alternative will be offered. Only one entry per person permitted. The winner will be chosen by Jen Bishop based on what she believes to be the best entry of 50 words or less. The competition starts at 7am on Thursday 15 July 2021 and closes at 5pm AEST on 29 July 2021. The winner will be announced within 48 hours of the closing date, on this blog post and via email to the winner.
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Starting from scratch in a new home, whether you’re renting or buying, is not cheap! Winston Tu, founder of Luxo Living, shares his top four tips for feathering your nest on a budget.
Choose bigger items first
“It’s easy to get carried away and add a number of mismatched items to your cart at the start of your journey,” says Winston. “I’m sure you’ve felt that pang of regret once everything arrives and it doesn’t exactly match up.”
To avoid this, Winston says it’s best to decide on your style and vision for your home from the get-go. Will it be Scandinavian, Hamptons, industrial, Art Deco, French Provincial, or even a mixed style? Once your vision is set, invest in the bigger furniture pieces first, such as this leather sofa (pictured above). Soft furnishings such as mirrors, rugs or side tables can always be sourced later on and cater to style.
Rank pieces by priority
In a dream world, we would buy every furniture piece that our hearts desire. However, the reality is that we have to make sacrifices so that every room has at least one piece that fits our style. “Rank each item in order of priority and then decide how much you could realistically spend on it,” Winston says. “Keep this list handy as you may acquire more money down the track and you could purchase that piece of artwork or bar stool you had your eye on.”
Go bold with key furniture items
Each room typically has a key furniture piece that attracts the most attention. This can be a couch, dining table, or bedhead. If you choose bold colours, textures, shapes, curves or fabrics for these pieces, such as the mother of pearl Inlay coffee table (pictured above), the room will feel instantly elevated.
Once you have your statement piece, you can tone the room down and add warmth through more neutral décor. You’ll also find that you won’t need to invest in as many styling pieces, otherwise, the room will feel cluttered and ‘busy’. Let your statement piece do the heavy lifting!
Find pieces that serve multiple purposes
If you’re short on budget or storage space, an excellent idea is to find items that have more than one use. For example, this velvet ottoman (pictured above) acts not only as a centrepiece but can also keep your spare throws or cushions. Sideboard units can be used as a living room credenza, bedroom storage, or hallway and entryway console table. The options are endless!
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While there are plenty of companies across the globe that cater to the booming IKEA furniture hacking scene, the latest one is based in Sydney and is the work of partners Suzanna Tauber and Mathieu Griveau. The brand’s name combines the word ‘custom’ and IKEA; a clever portmanteau that describes the business’ offering.
“We specialise in customising IKEA furniture. We believe there is still a gap in the market for an offering that enables people to easily customise, revamp and upcycle their flatpack furniture,” says Suzanna.
The IKEA Besta gets a glow up with Customea diamond fronts
An experienced joiner by trade, Mathieu has been running his own kitchen installation company for the past few years (The Flatpack Installer). And having installed literally hundreds of IKEA kitchens, he knows better than most how difficult it can be to create something unique without a hefty price tag. “Over the years, we’ve always discussed the lack of options out there. As a joiner, it made sense for Mat to take the next step and start manufacturing his own products,” says Suzanna.
Customea’s navy Mermaid design paired with IKEA Metod cupboards and drawers
Ideal for those looking for a budget option, that is a bit more interesting and less generic, the Customea range includes fronts, tops, sides and accessories that fit the IKEA Metod kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, the popular IKEA Besta storage units and the IKEA Pax wardrobes.
There are seven front designs to choose from ranging from plain to chevron, mermaid, diamond and shaker styles. When it comes to colours, there’s white, black, dark grey, navy, pale pink and mint green while the handle offering includes black, timber, brass and copper.
IKEA Metod kitchen cupboards with Customea’s Shake The Line fronts and brass handles
“You can either revamp existing items you may already have or consider our products when purchasing new items from IKEA,” says Suzanna who explains that the panels can be used as tops as Customea doesn’t offer stone or wood tops.
The pricing is very competitive too with doors starting from $150, drawer fronts from $100, sides and tops from $75, kickboards from $40 and handles from $15.
IKEA Metod paired with black Chevron fronts
Customea has two main competitors in Australia (Ren Studio and Arkie Design), but Suzanna believes that those brands are geared more towards architects and designers. “Ultimately, we are aiming to appeal to everyone, or at least anyone who has an IKEA product in their home!”
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With the market for pre-loved designer fashion goods enjoying a COVID-led boom, it was only a matter of time before we saw the same thing happen in the interiors realm. Enter Collécte, Australia’s first end to end marketplace for pre-owned, authentic designer furniture. The brainchild of interior designer Melissa Giuffrida, the online platform was set up to service what Melissa says is a real need for a dedicated marketplace for pre-owned, authentic designer pieces.
Collécte founder Melissa Giuffrida
“With the flooding of cheap replicas and low-quality pieces in the market (on other platforms), consumers are confused and don’t know if they are buying real or fake or quality goods. Collécte is committed to selling pre-owned authentic designer furniture where items can be bought and sold with confidence,” says Melissa who has a real desire to support the livelihoods of designers and says that every piece on Collécte is guaranteed authentic.
The Ligne Roset Curule chair is one of Melissa’s design favourites
Her motivation to set up the platform was also underpinned by Australia’s rather concerning furniture consumption habits that see our major cities dispose of approximately 50,000 tonnes of low-quality furniture annually. “The Australian consumer has not been offered viable options on how to deal with the issue of replica furniture in the past. The online market is confusing for consumers to know what they are buying. Is the pre-owned piece real or fake? Collécte was created to solve this problem for consumers.”
The environmental impact that fast furniture poses, is becoming more and more important for consumers too. “People are much more aware of the environment and the amount of furniture that ends up in landfill. I think we are all starting to focus on quality and long-term use rather than cheaper furniture that is useless after a few years,” says Melissa.
Kartell chairs
The platform can be used easily by sellers and buyers alike. Sellers follow a simple three-step process to list a product before it gets sent to Melissa for approval while buyers can browse the marketplace, message sellers, negotiate prices, and make offers on products. Shipping and payments are organised through Collécte and local pick-up is offered where possible.
“As the marketplace is set up to be fully automated, I have kept sellers’ commissions low which means buyers will benefit from more competitive pricing. Most pieces are 50-to-70 per cent off the retail price. There are some items that are basically brand new that are 15-to-20 percent off,” says Melissa.
Moroso Klara chair
As for the most popular pieces on the site, Melissa explains that the most iconic designer items are the ones that sell most swiftly. Popular items include the Arflex Strips Sofa, USM units and Tufty-Time Sofas. “These pieces will usually sell within one to two days of listing,” says Melissa who cites the Flos Arco floor lamp, DCW Editions Mantis Wall lights and Ligne Roset Curule chairs as some of her most coveted pieces.
The DCW Editions Mantis wall light is one of the most popular pieces on the site
And while even pre-owned these pieces don’t come cheap, Melissa explains that buying low-quality pieces equates to replacing that product 10 times or more compared to investing in an authentic piece that will last a lifetime.
“When considering the investment over a lifetime, buying quality offers a much better outcome. Not only do you experience the joy of authentic design, but you also support the designers of the product and the environment. I have always had a passion for authentic design, and Collécte has allowed me to create a place where authentic design can be enjoyed by all.”
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Magazine stylist Fiona Gould has created her own furniture collection using marble and Venetian plaster, after studying how to create unique finishes herself by hand.
Fiona’s eight-year career as a stylist, most recently as Home Beautiful’s style editor, has seen her take a key role in shaping interior trends within the Australian landscape. She was inspired to release a collection that spoke to her signature style with a focus on natural materials, clean, organic forms and a timeless European aesthetic.
The Aimee tray is all about exaggerated curves. Available in two sizes ($190 and $90), in either Bianco Carrara or Rosso Levanto red marble.
Inspired by her Italian heritage, Chelon’s name is taken from Fiona’s maiden name Michelon, with her love for Mediterranean style really driving her vision for the brand.
A gentle organic curved table top carved from Bianco Carrara marble, atop a white venetian plaster base handcrafted by Fiona herself ($850).
She makes all the Venetian plaster elements herself, using a labour intensive, speciality textural finish. “I wanted to bring a luxurious textural element to the base of our Camille tables and have always adored the lustrous effect Venetian plaster gives,” she says. “The plaster finish is a blend of raw texture and a marble-like lustre, for a luxurious result that dances in the light and is beautiful to touch.
A first in marble furniture design, Chelon have introduced concave fluting, a subtle and classic finish inspired by traditional columns and architectural details found throughout Europe. Available in Bianco Carrara marble as a side table ($950) and coffee table ($2400).
“There is a real art to working with Venetian plaster and I spent months studying and learning from top plaster artisans to perfect the exact look we wanted to achieve. It’s such a gorgeous versatile material that I think is highly underused in the furniture industry.”
Chelon also offers bespoke design solutions, providing custom sizes, colours and shapes from stone and Venetian plaster, in addition to other materials made by local artisans.
Stylist Sarah Ellison curates luxury Sydney accommodation experience
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Sustainable, handmade furniture designed to last a lifetime
Handmade furniture designer Jeremy Lee has built JDLee Furniture around the values of sustainable and high quality furniture. “Buying less is more when it comes to our impact on the…
It goes without saying that you can never have enough storage right? And while we’ll always have a soft spot for seamless, built-in joinery, it usually comes at an intimidating price. From timber to rattan and powder coated steel, today’s freestanding shelving options are many and varied. Here’s out favourite picks.
King Living Vertio shelving system: Perfect for delineating spaces, as an accent piece or purely as shelving, this new modular system is fully customisable for both small and large spaces. Visually light, vertical poles allow shelves and cabinets to be positioned as desired, while the system can be mounted either between the floor and ceiling or next to a wall, depending on the space. From $990.
IKEA KOLBJÖRN shelving unit: Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, this shelving unit and cabinet is durable and rust resistant. Constructed out of powdercoated steel, we love the rich green hue for a bright pop of colour. $199.
Jasonl Como Penelope shelf: Clean, modern and low, this little number features plywood shelves and a powder coated steel frame. A minimalist design, this piece is perfect for storing all your favourite styling pieces and is ideal for small spaces. $169
The Family Love Tree Latitude tall bookshelf: Made from natural rattan, fashioned into gorgeous curves, this piece is perfect book, toy or decor storage and has eco-cred too. A sustainable and ultimately biodegradable material, rattan is fast growing and harvested by hand ensuring minimal impact on the environment. $695.
Menu Sticks system in grey/light ash: Made from stained ash and powdercoated steel, this versatile shelving system can be extended and adapted to suit any sized space. From $600.
Mustard Made The Twinny in lilac: The latest fabulous colour to be added to an already highly covetable range, this piece is more locker than shelving unit but we just had to share it. A truly versatile storage solution it comes with four adjustable shelves, four hooks and two hanging rails. $699.
Faking built-in joinery: how we used flatpack and VJ to create an amazing TV unit
I’ve shared our living room on here many times and I really love the space, but what people often ask me is: “but where’s the TV?” Well, there’s a reason…
Modern heirloom furnishing and clever storage transform Newtown terrace
Tucked behind the bustling main drag of Sydney’s vibrant Newtown, this small 1980’s era terrace was transformed into an urban sanctuary recently by the talented interior stylist Jessi Eve. “The…
With a colour palette of khaki and amber, and a materials palette of cord, wicker and smoked glass, there’s no denying Freedom’s new autumn/winter ’21 collection has a strong 1970′s feel. Filled with artisanal details, rich earthy hues, organic shapes and lovely textured fabrics, the carefully curated range is made to mix and match. Here are our top picks.
Studio glassware: Made from fluted glass in smokey quartz and amber shades, the delicate Studio glassware range is comprised of tumblers, a champagne glass, carafe set and bowl. It’s seen here with the brand’s complementary amber toned Fusion glassware. From $24.95.
“Dinnerware doesn’t have to be matchy matchy. Winter is more eclectic and fun so we’ve curated an offer where you can blend different tableware,” says Freedom head of homewares Christie Maartensz.
Atticus cushion: A dark earthy green with a quilted grid-like design, we love the moody feel of this versatile cushion. $44.95.
Mesa coverlet: This textured coverlet is quite the chameleon. Dress it up or down and use it throughout the year – just layer it up with a doona in winter and use it solo when temperatures rise. From $249.
Palazzo pouffe: Made from a gorgeous toffee coloured velvet, this is ideal for extra seating while bringing a cosy winter feel. $169.
Dome table lamp in brushed brass: Borrowing heavily from the iconic Attolo lamp, this little beauty is a much more affordably priced $179 and it comes in chrome too.
Cosh floor lamp: A sculptural black metal lamp, this one has serious presence. It’s also available in white. $149.
Mirrors: The new mirror line-up has a very textural feel. Their frame materials range from cane to wicker, rattan and rope making them ideal for a coastal abode. From $249.
Harlem pitcher and cereal bowl: Available in mid pink and this gorgeous olive green, the new Harlem ceramic range will elevate any table setting. From $12.95.
Freedom rebrands to focus on Australian design
Of the many things that COVID-19 has taught us, the value of locally designed and made product would have to be right up there. With international supply issues a serious…
When it comes to dining tables, rectangular iterations have been the gold standard for a very long time which is why it’s so nice to see the arrival of so many stylish round options. From timber to concrete, marble and more, there’s a ’roundie’ to suit any taste.
Coco Republic Cubix dining table: Available in two sizes (1.2 metre and 1.6 metre diameter) in emerald marble or travertine, this gorgeous roundie is a true statement piece. $6295.
The Wood Room Bell table: Designed by celebrated architectural practice Richards Stanisich, the stunning curves of this handcrafted timber table are a thing of true beauty. Designed for practical seating, the base won’t interfere with your dining chairs. From $17,490.
Freedom Miro dining table: Crafted from white concrete, this table features a round top supported by a stylishly sculptural pedestal base. $1999.
Beeline Design Ridge dining table: Made in Melbourne and available in a range of colours as well as timber and veneer options, it’s the corrugated base that sets this piece apart. Featuring a crimson hued base and a Carrara marble top, we love this iteration. From $5879.
GlobeWest Classique round dining table: Available in three sizes and four finishes (matte dark oak, natural ash, white grain ash and mocha ash), this table features a single large pillar that grounds it to the floor. From $2760.
Coco Republic Anchorage concrete dining table: Bold and sculptural, this concrete table has a lustrous smooth finish. It would look equally stylish on a terrace or in the dining room. We love its ample forms. From $2825.
House of Orange Pillar dining table: Available in natural, black and white, it’s the ribbed timber column base that takes this piece up a notch. From $2995.
Tablescape ideas: How to create a Pinterest-worthy dining table
Along with an increase in furniture sales and at-home entertaining, COVID-19 has spawned yet another interiors trend in the form of ‘tablescaping.’ No doubt inspired by a desire to break…
Decorative shelves: Stylish and practical vertical storage
No longer purely utilitarian, the humble and hard-working shelf has really come into its own of late. From large and round to Scandi-inspired replete with handy hooks, these are some…
While temperatures are dropping and we are very much in the throes of autumn, the latest IKEA arrivals are a rather light and bright affair. From a new coffee table that is set to become a cult classic, to a fabulous rattan dining chair and some fun textiles, here are our picks from the April drop.
BORGEBY coffee table: This birch veneer beauty is perfect for small spaces. While it’s only 70 centimetres in diameter, the clever storage underneath more than makes up for its diminutive size. $149.
TVINGSTRUP rug: Designed by Indian weaver K.C. Maura, known for his inspiring hand-crafted designs, this reversible 100 per cent wool flatwoven rug combines an abstract feel with lovely earthy tones. The design is handmade in India, in organised weaving centres with good working conditions and fair wages, making it an ethical buy too. $149.
PÅDRAG vase: The perfect way to dip into the fluted glass trend with minimal damage to the hip pocket. It’s designed to look beautiful with or without flowers. $2.
FRÖJEREDkitchen fronts: The brand’s first bamboo kitchen front, these minimally designed drawer fronts are made from responsibly sourced bamboo and are super hard wearing. $40.
VOXLÖVchair: Made from bamboo and twisted paper cord, this chair is not only fabulous looking but it’s environmentally friendly too. We predict it will be a massive hit. $119.
PIMPERNÖTquilt cover and two pillowcases: Made from 80 per cent cotton derived from sustainable sources, and 20 per cent viscose, we love this design’s colour palette and bold, geometric pattern. $35.
VITKLÖVER quilt cover and pillowcase: Inspired by swimming pool tiles, we love the crisp, cool feel of this bedding. It’s got a blue base on one side and white on the other. From $25.
IKEA latest: February 2021 drop includes great small space options
From a compact desk to a neat laptop stand and stylish air purifier, the latest IKEA drop seems heavily influenced by the pandemic and small space living. There’s a gorgeous…
Interior design trends are always fascinating because, like every aspect of culture, they don’t exist in a vacuum. Take our current obsession with boucle for example. Coco Chanel’s favourite fabric, boucle translates to ‘yarn with a looped or curled ply’ and it offers just the right amount of cosiness in these uncertain times. It also happens to be a fabulous complement to modern minimalist house design.
Life Interiors boucle collection: From the gorgeous Monet ottoman ($395) to the Monet armchair ($945) and Blake dining chair ($345), Life Interiors has certainly embraced (and nailed) the boucle trend.
Brosa Seta four seater sofa with chaise: Generously proportioned, this sofa is available in a variety of fabrics but the ‘Pavilion’ bouclé option has a lovely exaggerated texture and a soft woolly look. $1999.
Kmart boucle ottoman: Even Kmart has jumped on the boucle bandwagon with this compact little number. $29.
Cushions made from luxe fabrics destined for landfill
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australians send a whopping 85% of our textiles to landfill every year – much of it a by-product of the fashion and interior…
When TJ Hoon was working in finance he moved around a lot – from Perth to Sydney, Melbourne, New York and Melbourne again. And like many renters, while he had the money to purchase quality furniture pieces, he didn’t want to because he was never quite sure where he was going to be living next.
“I was earning pretty well but always knew I’d move within a year, so I ended up doing the IKEA circuit like most people,” says TJ who, with sustainability concerns top of mind, launched the subscription-based Breeze Furniture with his business partner Peter Kijak in 2019.
“Often when people are renting, they don’t get the furniture that they really like because their needs change. A lot of people buy ‘fast furniture’ which ends up in landfill,” says TJ.
Breeze Furniture co-founders Peter Kijak and TJ Hoon
Currently operating in Sydney and Melbourne, Breeze Furniture offers short and long-term furniture rental, delivered for free, with the option to buy, swap or return the pieces at the end of the agreement. Members have the option of renting individual pieces or entire room packages that have been curated by interior designers.
You can choose a ‘whole room’ package that has been expertly curated by an interior designer
The business’ short term or three-month agreement involves a $12.95 monthly account fee plus a furniture rental price on top. For the long-term arrangement, users pay $8.95 per month plus lower monthly furniture prices over a 12-month term. With the long-term plan, you never pay any more than retail price for the item, and you have the option to buy the product after 12 months.
The range, comprised of more than 100 products, is sourced from local Australian suppliers and, after being rented out, undergoes an assessment process before being redeployed. Anything that cannot be reupholstered or cleaned up is given to charity.
“What people don’t realise is that most used furniture that gets put on the verge cannot be recycled. So not only is our furniture nicer but, through our circular business model, we are able to keep furniture in homes and out of landfill too,” says TJ.
*If you’d like to trial Breeze Furniture, use the code INTERIORSADDICT to get $75 off your first month.
How to personalise a rental home: 5 ideas
By Jessica Bellef Are you a tenant who despairs of having a home that truly reflects your style and personality? When we rent a house, we are borrowing the space.…
