Tag: interior

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

Architecture Design Interviews Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Timber mouldings totally transform small 70s apartment

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date July 25, 2019
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Real home: French inspired new build in Sydney hills

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date July 19, 2019
No Comments on Real home: French inspired new build in Sydney hills

Located in the Hills District of Sydney, this French inspired new home has a rather large footprint (750 square metres) and is comprised of five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a wine cellar, home theatre, swimming pool and 10-car garage. “We were asked to create a luxurious home that was inspired by the apartments of Paris,” says the project’s interior designer Joumana Sukari of Sukari Design who worked alongside Ray Taouk of FLDC Architects to create the expansive house.

Juliet balconies, crystal chandeliers and a sweeping staircase with wrought iron balustrades are just some of the features that create that Parisian feel. And while the home’s owners (a family of five) wanted a timeless finish they were keen on mod cons too – the home has a lift, under-floor heating and the aforementioned home theatre.

A focal point of the home, the family room features a six-metre void punctuated by a series of statement glass doors and windows. “We designed three tall arched doors that lead onto a terrace and complemented them with three circular windows placed directly above which really lifts your eye to take in the full height of the ceiling,” says Joumana.

Created from slabs of Calacutta marble, the kitchen is another highlight and it’s both practical and pretty. “With a client who enjoys cooking, it was important to us that the function of the kitchen matched the aesthetics,” says Joumana who included a second sink on the kitchen island, double wall ovens and a large double fridge to this end. “We wanted to make sure the kitchen was not just a showpiece but a space that could be used daily with ease and practicality,” says Joumana.

Another rather covetable space, the home’s wine cellar was designed around a sandstone feature wall that is lit from the ground up. “Given the wine cellar opens on the modern home theatre, we wanted to add a contemporary touch with the furnishings by including a concrete table and mid-century style dining chairs and pendant,” says Joumana.

And with a thrilled client who loves the end result, Joumana found the project a deeply satisfying one. “Your home is your refuge. It is a place where so many family milestones are reached, so the most important thing for us is that our clients’ home is a true reflection of their vision.”

Master bathroom — Calacatta marble features in the master bathroom too

Photography: Richard Whitbread

For more on Sukari Design | Three Birds Renovations’ Hills District project

Tags design, interior, interior design, interior designer, interiors, real home, sydney

Architecture Design Designers Styling

Design Files awards recognise Aussie interior talent

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date July 16, 2019
No Comments on Design Files awards recognise Aussie interior talent

Shortlisted: Kate Challis' 'The Gertrude Project'

With more than 500 entries across 12 award categories, the inaugural Design Files Design Awards have launched with aplomb and today we are bringing you some of the amazing shortlisted projects. Designed to recognise the best of Australian design, the awards are a little different to most given that they not only recognise our most talented architects and interior designers but furniture designers, craft practitioners, floral designers, textile designers, stylists and art directors too.

Looking at this shortlist, I think it would be safe to say that these highly sophisticated projects could compete on the world stage.

Shortlisted: Brammah Interior Design's 'Ferndale House' — Shortlisted: Brammah Interior Design’s ‘Ferndale House’

“There’s just an incredible breadth of creative work in the mix. These shortlists provide a succinct snapshot of the immense talent across Australia right now,” says The Design Files’ Lucy Feagins. And while there are some inspiring entries across all of the categories, today we’re bring you a round-up of the best shortlisted projects in the interior design category.

Shortlisted: 'Sarah Cosentino and Felicity Slattery's 'Portsea Beach House' — Shortlisted: ‘Sarah Cosentino and Felicity Slattery’s ‘Portsea Beach House’

“Interior design is one of Australia’s fastest growing and most dynamic design disciplines. Clever, unique and considered interiors are transformative, and contribute to a cultural identity which is uniquely Australian,” says Lucy of the interior design category that is judged across five distinct areas – originality, visual appeal, craftsmanship, functionality, sustainability and visionary thinking. Extra points will be awarded to projects with pro bono or community focussed outcomes, and/or projects limited by an unusually tiny budget.

Shortlisted: Simone Haag's 'Poynton House' — Shortlisted: Simone Haag’s ‘Poynton House’

We have brought some of the shortlisted projects to you before such as John Bornas’ ‘Huntington Tower Residence,’ Dylan Farrell’s ‘Sydney Contemporary Perch,’ and Simone Haag’s ‘Poynton House,’ but there are many more worth mentioning.

I love that curved detailing in Matt Woods Design's 'Perfect Storm' project — I love that seamless curved detailing in Matt Woods Design’s ‘Perfect Storm’ project

Kate Challis’ ‘The Gertrude Project’ is a highly individual family home that blurs the distinction between art and design. The designer’s own residence, the project is heavily influenced by her love of art and draws upon the works of two prominent Australian female artists who both had a passion for native flora and fauna; Margaret Preston and Valerie Sparks.

Shortlisted: Kate Challis' 'The Gertrude Project' — Shortlisted: Kate Challis’ ‘The Gertrude Project’

Not your typical country house, Chelsea Hing’s ‘Yarra Valley House’ has a beautiful colour palette inspired by its location. The designer drew on the ghost greys of the surrounding eucalyptus trees, the washed out greens of the grapevines, the terracotta blush of the soil and the blackened bark of the trees. Rich terracotta’s, saddle tan leathers, polished plaster, slate, cedar and sandblasted timber combine to create the stunning home.

Georgina Jeffries’ ‘The Victorian’ is home to an Aussie and his American wife who recently relocated from New York. An old inner-city Victorian terrace, Georgina reconfigured the floor plan, reconditioned the old and introduced touches of the new to create a delightful series of spaces.

Shortlisted: Georgina Jefferies 'The Victorian' — Shortlisted: Georgina Jeffries’ ‘The Victorian’

Georgina Jefferie's 'The Victorian' — Georgina Jeffries’ ‘The Victorian’

A celebration of colour, Mardi Doherty’s ‘St Kilda Residence’ is a revamped 1920’s Californian Bungalow with a twist. One of the statement spaces is a bold red room, and there’s plenty of robust and daring materials used throughout including black steel, oversized terrazzo, marble, Corian, fluted glass and mosaic tiles.

Shortlisted: Mari Doherty's 'St Kilda Residence' — Shortlisted: Mardi Doherty’s ‘St Kilda Residence’

The interior design category judges David Flack, Yasmine Ghoniem (Amber Road), and Adriana Hanna (Kennedy Nolan) have their work cut out for them before the winners are announced on Thursday September 19th in Melbourne.

For more on the awards | 2019 Australian Interior Design Awards winners

Tags architecture, design, design files, Design Files Design Awards, interior, interior design, interior designer, interiors

Interviews Styling

Stylist Kerrie-Ann Jones on creating Real Living covers

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date July 15, 2019
No Comments on Stylist Kerrie-Ann Jones on creating Real Living covers

While you may not have heard of her by name, you’ve no doubt come across the work of Sydney based interior stylist Kerrie-Ann Jones through her many fabulous covers for Real Living magazine. After a career in the music industry, Kerrie-Ann worked on interiors title Homes+ before a freelance stint that culminated in her landing her dream job in 2017, as the style editor of Real Living.

“I had just had my second child, but I didn’t want to let the opportunity go so I applied when my son was six months old. There was a new editor at the magazine, and I had to really jump through hoops to get the job! But I did and I’m so grateful to her and the team for choosing me,” says Kerrie-Ann who describes the job as a steep learning curve.

One of Kerrie-Ann's Real Living covers. Photo by Maree Homer — One of Kerrie-Ann’s Real Living covers. Photo by Maree Homer

“I learnt a lot during my time there. I loved styling the cover shoots each month, the decorating features and house stories. It really propelled me forward creatively and took my styling to the next level,” says Kerrie-Ann. Producing the cover each month was arguably her biggest task and it involved directing a rather large team including a photographer, videographer, creative director, model, hair and make-up, florist and several assistants. A big production to helm, the shoots also had very tight turnarounds.

“I had one to two weeks to produce each cover, from the initial concept to the shoot day. After each shoot I started creating the next shoot the following day, so I had to learn the ropes, very quickly!” says Kerrie-Ann.

Kerrie-Ann Jones. Photo by Alicia Taylor

The covers, intended as a source of inspiration for people decorating their own homes, unsurprisingly required the stylist to be ahead of the trend curve. “It made me become more acutely aware and open to inspiration sources. My eyes are always switched on and inspiration can hit me at any moment. It could be a seasonal colour palette, a flower that’s in season, lines and shapes, anything!” says Kerrie-Ann who finds art and fashion a constant inspiration.

Another one of Kerrie-Ann's Real Living covers. Photo by Maree Homer — Another one of Kerrie-Ann’s Real Living covers. Photo by Maree Homer

But the significant demands of the magazine world became difficult to manage with motherhood and, earlier this year, Kerrie-Ann decided to head back to the freelance world. “I love having more of a work/life balance now so I can spend more time with my children,” says Kerrie-Ann who now styles for several furniture and homewares brands as well as magazines, while running styling workshops too.

More of Kerrie-Ann's work. Photo by Maree Homer — More of Kerrie-Ann’s work. Photo by Maree Homer

The next workshop is an Instagram photo styling session where Kerrie-Ann will impart her inside knowledge on how to create beautiful lifestyle and flatlay photos. “Writing the workshop notes has really unraveled how much I have learned about styling and I’m really looking forward to sharing all that information with people who, like me, have a genuine passion for styling,” says Kerrie-Ann. The workshop will cover basic design and photography principles, concept creation, shoot preparation and production plus post-production. There will be some practical styling stations set up too so you can style your own shots with Kerrie-Ann’s feedback.

Flatlay by Kerrie-Ann. Photo by Benito Martin

As for the next big thing in interiors, Kerrie-Ann has ear-marked a couple of trends – coloured glass vases and objects, and cobalt blue two of them. “I’m seeing cobalt blue everywhere recently, but I think only in small doses is best! Also, furniture with interesting and chunky shapes and the ancient Greek/Roman trend too with its Greek busts, statues and column motifs,” says Kerrie-Ann.

With an eye to the future, the stylist has coffee table book aspirations and a general desire to spread the styling love. “I would love to continue being a source of interior styling inspiration with the work I produce. It’s been incredible to see photos of how people have used my styling as inspiration for decorating their homes. I’m now exploring other outlets to inspire, educate and connect with people who share my passion for styling and interiors. Watch this space!”

Kerrie-Anne’s next workshop is running in Sydney this Saturday July 20 from 10am – 12pm at La Porte Space in Rosebery. Tickets are $225 each.

For more on Kerrie-Anne and the upcoming workshop | Meet talented interior stylist Jono Fleming

Tags interior, interior stylist, interiors, kerrie-ann jones, magazine styling, real living, styling, stylist, sydney

Architecture Design House Tours

Real home: Rocks inspire elegant, masculine family pad

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date July 4, 2019
No Comments on Real home: Rocks inspire elegant, masculine family pad

Large and beautiful rock features in the lounge room

Shortlisted in the recently announced 2019 Victorian Architecture Awards and designed by Melbourne’s Splinter Society Architecture, ‘Cornerstone House’ was literally built out of the rubble. A truly unique family home, it’s located in Northcote and caught our eye due to its fabulous, original use of stone.

Housed on a site with a problematic soil condition (it was littered with rock and sits on an old lava flow belt), the home’s build began with the placement of large quarried rocks and ended with hand-crafted details and plenty of new stone throughout. I love how the architects took inspiration from the original site and amazingly, several six-tonne stone blocks were craned in to create the home too.

Rocks aside, slender blackened steel and timber feature too, creating a playful vibe that alternates between hard and soft. And with a largely black colour palette (there are some lovely teal flourishes), the overall vibe is one of elegant masculinity.

Cornerstone House — The beautiful stone clad fireplace

The exterior of the home — Large blocks of stone can be seen from the street too

And while the owners of the large family home (it sits on 800 square metres) wanted it to be robust, low-maintenance and private, they also wanted it to have a wow factor too – particularly when entertaining. I’d say that was achieved! The pool area alone would be an amazing place to host a party.

The statement living and dining spaces sit within a central green and stone paved landscape, protected by a floating, curved roof above that allows glimpses to the surrounding trees.

The home’s monochrome palette is broken up by raw textured plaster that grabs the light in the day and illuminates at night when the home is in party mode – entertaining is key remember! Timber accents, fabric panels and red toned metallic and glazed finishes round out the material selections.

Photography: Sharyn Cairns

For more on the 2019 Victorian Architecture Awards | David Hicks on statement stone

Tags 2017 Victorian Architecture Awards, architect, architecture, awards, design, interior, interior design, melbourne, Northcote

Architecture Design Interviews RENO ADDICT

Architect’s home amazing example of small space living

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date June 24, 2019
1 Comment on Architect’s home amazing example of small space living

With just 33 square metres to work with, architect Jack Chen has maximised every last centimetre of this 1970’s Melbourne apartment through a very clever renovation. And while small, Jack’s apartment really packs it in – it features a four-metre-long kitchen, wine store, sunlit window seat, green house and home studio area too!

“I was renting in the unit below for over a year and this project came about to fix all the awkwardness I was experiencing while renting which included a tiny kitchen, a lack of sufficient daylight and lack of working space. This renovation addressed all of this and hopefully a bit more, and I now have a feeling of comfort and a place I can unwind in at the end of the day,” says Jack who lives and runs his architectural business Tsai Design from the apartment too.

The four-metre-long kitchen — Jack’s apartment features a four-metre-long kitchen

Working within the constraints of the original floor plan, the modest budget was poured into creating floor-to-ceiling, multifunctional cabinetry and wall systems created by a cabinetmaker that specialises in high-end hotels.

The apartment features a slide-out dining table

Three prototyped versions of the fold-down dining table were created to determine the best solution

The largest multi-tasking zone is the lounge room has been cleverly designed to transform easily from tv room to home office. Clever joinery hides a tv, flip-out desk, computers and filing area.

And with its statement green wall and privacy film wall between it and the kitchen, the bathroom is a highlight of the home. “As the apartment has no outdoor space, I wanted to create an environment that gives the outdoor vibe, hence the full height green wall, various planting, and timber texture porcelain tile in the shower that creates an outdoor shower experience,” says Jack.

The view down the kitchen to the bathroom with the privacy screen off — The view from the kitchen to the bathroom with the privacy screen off

“The green wall is made of preserved moss so there’s no maintenance required. It comes on cork backing in a 30-centimetre x 30-centimetre tile format,” says Jack.

A simple switch of a button turns the the privacy screen on — A simple press of a button turns the the privacy screen on

The privacy screen between the kitchen and bathroom is the only change that Jack made to the existing walls – the opening was created to let in the northern light from the bathroom to kitchen. “It is a standard glass fixed window, with a privacy film on top of it. When activated the film goes from transparent to frosted to achieve privacy when required, and allows for a clear view of the green wall and daylight the rest of the time. Activation is by simple press of the remote,” says Jack.

And while Jack is proud of the overall transformation, he does concede that small living is perhaps not for everyone. “It is very easy to clutter up a small space, so you have to choose each furniture item carefully. But it’s important to have your personal items around too so the hardest thing is to strike the perfect balance.”

Multipurpose storage at the entry houses coats, shoes a wine rack and even an umbrella stand — Smart multipurpose storage at the entry houses a helmet, shoes, wine rack and even an umbrella stand

Jack’s apartment will be open to view as part of the upcoming Open House Melbourne 2019 Weekend that is taking place on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 July.

Photography: Tess Kelly

The full Open House Melbourne 2019 program | Small space laundry ideas

Tags apartment, apartment living, architecture, design, home reno, home renovation, interior, interior design, interiors, melbourne, real reno, reno, renovating, renovation

Bathrooms Shopping

Australian bathroom trends: May 2019 edition

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date May 23, 2019
No Comments on Australian bathroom trends: May 2019 edition

From Reece’s new custom vanity range to pastel hued subway tiles and Eastern influenced baths and basins, this month’s bathroom trend round-up features a diverse mix of the latest bathroom looks.

Reece Bathrooms Posh Domaine range: Bespoke design without the hefty price tag, this new range offers 27 vanity finishes and 13 bench top options that allow for an endless combination of configurations to suit every bathroom requirement, budget and taste.

Available in sizes ranging from 600mm to 1800mm with myriad door and drawer combinations to choose from you can also select from open shelf options, a tallboy, shaving cabinet and on-trend round mirror too. Vanities start from $799.

Posh Domaine vanity shaving drawer with shelf in classic oak — Posh Domaine vanity shaving cabinet with shelf in classic oak

Posh Domaine vanity in washed knotty ash timber with graphite internals — Posh Domaine vanity unit in washed knotty ash timber with graphite internals

Beaumont Tiles’ Union range: We brought you 12 different ways to lay subway tiles recently and what better to do that with than the new Beaumont Tiles 2019 subway collection. Available in 10 pastel shades, two sizes and two finishes (satin and gloss), the chameleonic subway tile looks right at home in anything from a Scandinavian to a coastal or chic country interior.

Agape bathware: Available in Australia exclusively through Artedomus, the latest bath ware from iconic Italian brand Agape includes items inspired by the East as well as a rather enviable slimline bathtub.

Neri&Hu’s Immersion bath and Immersion basin address smaller living space constraints and are both inspired by the traditional timber bathing vessels used in Japan and China. The Neb collection, designed by Benedini Associati, includes a sleek bathtub and basin with an extremely thin and elegant profile.

Agape latest: Neri&Hu’s Immersion Basin (left) and the Neb collection bathtub (right) — Agape latest: Neri&Hu’s Eastern inspired Immersion Basin (left) and the Neb collection bathtub (right)

IB Rubinetti TAAAC collection: Designed with versatility in mind by Italian designer Federico Castelli, this new tap ware collection is available at Paco Jaanson. Sleek without being too futuristic, the range is available in chrome brass, glossy white, glossy black and brushed nickel finishes in everything from wash basin mixers to shower heads. From $200.

Highgrove Bathrooms Jones & Jones wall mount blackbutt timber vanity: The timber vanity has been a popular bathroom look for a while now and this latest version proves the trend continues to have legs. Transforming what can be a clinical space into one with warmth is what makes the timber vanity an enduring look.

To create the look and feel of a full-timber grain, a thin layer of blackbutt timber is fused to a solid vanity core in this eco-friendly design. From $980.

A 1930’s coastal inspired bathroom ‘before and after’

Tags agape, australian bathroom trends, bathroom, bathroom trends, bathrooms, design, highgrove bathrooms, iB Rubinetterie, interior, interior design, interiors, reece, trends

Design Designers Interviews

Alisa & Lysandra: The Block twins style a family home

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date May 10, 2019
No Comments on Alisa & Lysandra: The Block twins style a family home

Tasked with creating the interiors for Mirvac’s latest display home (the ‘Banksia’ in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburb of Waverley Park), ex Blockheads Alisa and Lysandra Fraser have combined layers of texture and sophisticated colour to create timeless yet accessible spaces.

With a young family audience in mind, the twins ensured the home was styled in a practical way with room to evolve with the changing needs of a family. “When designing a home, you have to consider how you plan on using the space, both now and in the future. It’s also important to blend timeless, sophisticated pieces with on-trend elements, allowing a home to remain stylish for years to come with flexible accents and layers that are easy and affordable to replace,” says Lysandra.

The furniture throughout was sourced from GlobeWest and Coco Republic with homewares found at Adairs, IKEA, Provincial Home Living and Kmart. The home also features custom rugs and artwork from the twins’ own collection including a gorgeous set of prints in the children’s room.

Children's room — Children’s room – the prints above the bed are available on the twins’ website

Colour plays an important role throughout with dramatic shades of navy and teal tempered by warm grey and charcoal. “This gives the home a welcoming feel that creates an inspired and cosy family haven, with luxurious touches such as brushed gold throughout. The soft blush tones in the living room combined with plenty of greenery adds a feminine feel also,” says Alisa.

As for their favourite part of the home, they are both enamoured with the master bedroom – a luxurious space. “This room has some special pieces such as Taj Maroc bone mirrors and a stunning occasional chair from GlobeWest that capture your attention when entering the room, together with a contemporary custom artwork, and large feature lamps from Coco Republic,” says Lysandra.

Photography: Kit Haselden

For more | Virtual reality display home tours

Tags alisa and lysandra, design, display home, interior, interior design, interior designer, interiors, interiors interior design, melbourne, mirvac, styling

Before & Afters Design Designers Interviews Kitchens

Before & after: Country kitchen gets classic makeover

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date April 3, 2019
1 Comment on Before & after: Country kitchen gets classic makeover

Located in Orange NSW, this kitchen renovation was completed just prior to last Christmas when the project’s interior designer Christine Ghrayche, of One X One Interiors, handed it over to her excited clients. “The brief for this project was all about functionality. Prior to the renovation, the kitchen was small and pokey, and simply didn’t provide enough space for a family of five. The renovation also had the goal of future proofing for when my client’s children reach their teenage years,” says Christine.

“It was a massive transformation that included the demolition of a wall and it also included the removal of ugly orange timber veneer that was replaced with contemporary black and white joinery,” says Christine of the home that was built in 2008 in traditional country homestead style.

“My client’s dream wish list included induction appliances, double ovens, double dishwashers and my client Sarah loves to bake so she wanted more preparation space for cooking. She also wanted clean lines, a repurposing of the linen press, and a style that complemented the traditional country style of the house,” says Christine.

Classic features aside, the kitchen certainly has a seamless vibe courtesy of its integrated dishwashers and custom-made cavity sliding door that leads to the adjacent mudroom. “We had it made in the same profile as the kitchen panels,” says Christine.

Silverdown mud room — The custom cavity door to the right leads to the adjacent mudroom

Christine also made sure to keep the family’s many bench top appliances out of sight with the addition of some clever storage. “My favourite aspect by far has to be the hinge up doors that sit below the open shelves. Both cabinets have power installed in them and they house everyday items such as the toaster and kettle.”

Hinge-up doors — Kitchen appliances are stored behind hinge-up doors inspired by this one. Image source: Design Dazzle

For more | Neale Whitaker’s new kitchen and top 10 design tips

Tags before and after, design, home reno, interior, interior design, interiors, kitchen, kitchen reno, kitchen renovation, orange, real home, reno, renovating, renovation

Design DIY Interviews Shopping

VW Kombi vans: New retro flat-pack DIY interior kits

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 29, 2019
8 Comments on VW Kombi vans: New retro flat-pack DIY interior kits

“When we first bought our 1973 Kombi camper van, its not-so-original interior had clearly seen better days. After a few trips away it soon became apparent that there were more issues than just the crumbling chipboard veneer, so we compiled a wish list of improvements for our dream interior,” says Felicity Joll of Lowd Vans, a new company that produces stylish flat-pack DIY interior kits for VW Kombi vans.

Given Felicity is also the creative director of Melbourne furniture design company Yellow Diva, designing cabinetry for a VW Kombi van wasn’t much of a stretch. “We did a bit of market research and weren’t overly impressed by what was available and since we are both designers, we naturally preferred to create our own,” says Felicity who runs both businesses alongside her co-director David Walley.

“First up, it was out with the chipboard and in with FSC film-faced birch plywood which is sustainable, light weight and water resistant. Our aim was to maximise storage, maximise access and maximise that classic VW style and the result was so perfect we felt we should share the joy. And in a geographically sprawling country like Australia, where logistics are everything, what better way to supply the product than flat packed for DIY self-assembly?” says Felicity.

The Lowd Vans aesthetic is inspired by the original Westfalia interiors that first appeared inside VW Kombi vans in the 1950’s and were the brand’s only officially authorised partner.

“Westfalia coachworks came up with the concept of ‘Camping Boxes’ in the early 1950’s. These off-the-peg kits converted your standard VW van into a ‘landhaus auf rädern’ or ‘country house on wheels’! The aesthetic of the Westfalia interiors was very reminiscent of that of a boat or yacht, with a streamlined silhouette and dedicated places for the accessories. At Lowd Vans we have referenced this heritage in our designs but with a contemporary twist and twenty-first century manufacturing methods,” says Felicity.

Original Westfalia 'Camping Box' illustration — Original 1950’s Westfalia ‘Camping Box’ illustration

Available in a choice of five colours, all with a natural birch ply fascia accent, the Lowd Van kits are made to order in Melbourne with a lead time of around four weeks with prices ranging from $795 for a single freestanding cabinet to $3750 for a full assembly. “The Winkipop Full Assembly is $3750 and comprises storage for cutlery, crockery and saucepans, a cabinet to take a 12v/240v fridge and single burner butane stove, sink cabinet with pull-out larder, plus two top-access locker cabinets,” says Felicity who has also designed a range of accessories to complement including tables and even a herb rack!

Freestanding larder cabinet — The ‘Winkipop’ Island Cabinet, $795

Full assembly kit — The ‘Roadknight’ Full Assembly, $2795

“Although we get enquiries from as far afield as North and South America and South Africa, our sales to date have tended to come from within Australia. There is particular interest from the further flung states – perhaps WA and QLD are particularly suited to life on the open road? We are also planning to set up manufacture in Ireland to service the European market directly,” says Felicity.

Charge devices through the fridge — You can charge devices through the fridge

“The Kombi has been at the forefront of social change since it emerged in the 50’s. Adopted by the counter culture and ‘flower power’ of the 60’s, and the surf culture in the 70’s, the Kombi is now emblematic of both these movements. The iconic vans continue to inspire new generations of enthusiasts through endless opportunities for tinkering and customisation, from slammed or lowered, rat-look to hippy-chic tiny home.”

For more | A beautiful vintage caravan restoration

Tags design, interior, interior kits, vw kombi, vw kombi interior kits

Design Interviews Real Renos

Real reno: Joinery stars in richly layered Coogee abode

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 13, 2019
No Comments on Real reno: Joinery stars in richly layered Coogee abode

Bondi Kitchens — The stunning parent's retreat

Designed by Sydney interior designers Space Control, this Coogee abode was given a major face lift recently and the result combines mid-century elements with Deco flair in what is now a sophisticated family home. “The client brief was to bring this Coogee beach house to its maximum potential as it was in desperate need of a complete makeover. We also needed to introduce a sense of a playful contemporary style to the interiors that related to the clients’ beach lifestyle,” says Space Control director Cressida Kennedy.

“We wanted to create a house that had a strong design direction but was still a livable family home – not too perfect. One where the kids could come directly from the beach and feel relaxed to use the features and furniture of the house. The solid American walnut timber joinery is combined with a minimalist white colour palette that contributes to the laid back coastal atmosphere created within the home,” says Cressida.

Combining brass, marble and feature American walnut, there’s no denying the high-end bespoke joinery (created by Bondi Kitchens) is a standout feature of the renovation. The full fit out joinery package included a stunning kitchen detailed with v-groove polar white curved island and back bench, along with American walnut veneer full height cabinets, detailed with a solid walnut trim. “The house is richly layered with numerous bespoke interior elements that add fun, joy and intrigue, whilst the design creates a new visual language for the family home,” says Cressida.

And as for her favourite space, it’s the knockout first floor parent’s retreat. “I like the open planning living that is focused around the marble fireplace along with the feature American walnut timber and brass bar for entertaining. The house has amazing natural light and this space captures it beautifully,” says Cressida.

Upstairs bar — The upstairs bar is a fabulous entertaining space

Photography: Drew Wheeler

For more on Space Control | For more on Bondi Kitchens

Tags bondi kitchens, coogee, design, home reno, home renovation, interior, interior design, interiors, real reno, renovation, space control, sydney

Design Interviews Real Renos RENO ADDICT Styling

Michael & Carlene’s latest vintage caravan: Bumblebee

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 8, 2019
5 Comments on Michael & Carlene’s latest vintage caravan: Bumblebee

Michael and Carlene Duffy with their latest creation

Bona fide vintage caravan renovation experts (and Block alumni) Carlene and Michael Duffy, of Cedar & Suede, are back with yet another amazing makeover – the aptly monikered ‘Bumblebee.’ Its combination of light timbers and dreamy yellow hues could win the hearts of even the most caravan averse.

“I love the combination of yellow with light timbers and rattan. I always aim for our vans to feel like a beach holiday with pastel colour palettes and a fresh airy feel inside,” says Carlene who acquired the van last year when it was in less than fabulous condition.

“We facilitated and judged a vintage caravan renovation challenge for The Block last year and this was one of the vans that the contestants were challenged with renovating in eight hours. There was extensive water damage so we ended up replacing the entire front frame of the van,” says Carlene.

“This is our fourth vintage van renovation and the style is in keeping with our previous renovations – they always have a vintage flavour combined with the functionality of modern living. I decided I wanted this one to be yellow and the name Bumblebee is a nod to both a bee and the Bumblebee Transformer, because we transformed it,” says Carlene of the van that boasts a new professional automotive exterior paint job too.

Kitchen tap — A brass tap adds some unexpected luxury to the kitchen

But fresh aesthetics aside, the 12 foot long caravan features all the mod cons to make road tripping a breeze including an on board water system, 12 volt lighting system, 12 volt deep cycle battery, a fridge and gas stove. The dining table converts to a bed (complete with new custom mattress and gorgeous bedding), there’s under seat and under bed storage and a great sized wardrobe too.

The bed features a new custom mattress and gorgeous bed linen — The bed features a new custom mattress and lovely bed linen

And as for her favourite part of the overhaul, it’s the gorgeous rattan cabinet fronts. “I guess it’s not a detail that you’d expect in a vintage caravan.”

Another Cedar & Suede vintage caravan reno

Tags caravan, caravan renovation, Carlene and Michael Duffy, Cedar & Suede, design, interior, interiors, reno, styling, vintage caravan

Design Designers Interviews

Get online interior design advice for just $30!

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 5, 2019
1 Comment on Get online interior design advice for just $30!

Launched recently by interior designer Tarmaine Hales, ‘Ask for 30’ lets you ask an interior design question for just $30 a pop! Amazing value, the online concept arose after the designer did some market research before launching her Canberra based business Harlo Design Studio recently.

“Initially it started with me noticing a repeat pattern of friends and family getting in touch to ask me a ‘quick question.’ When I started thinking more seriously about starting up Harlo Design Studio I did a lot of research and asked a lot of questions. I found those that hadn’t engaged an interior designer hadn’t done so primarily for reasons of price and accessibility. Also, many of them felt they didn’t necessarily need a full consultation,” says Tarmaine.

“I felt there was a real gap in the industry to address those people that had done a lot of the ground work themselves, but just needed a little bit of professional help. Also, many people said they didn’t have the time to actually visit a designer,” says Tarmaine.

A straightforward system, clients simply ask a question online at a time and place that suits them before paying for the service upfront using Paypal. “It’s a very simple process. I ask a couple of questions about the client’s style and budget via an online questionnaire. I also provide visuals and an overview of various styles after which the client has the opportunity to upload their photos and submit their question,” says Tarmaine.

A main bedroom designed by Tarmaine — A bedroom designed by Tarmaine

“When I started my business I wanted to make interior design accessible to people and price played a real part in this. The intention with the really reasonable price is to get people thinking about their space and investing in it,” says Tarmaine of the service that has been operating for a couple of weeks now. “In the two weeks that it’s been live, the response has been really positive.”

For more | This virtual rug styler makes buying online easy

Tags canberra, design, Harlo Design Studio, interior, interior design, interior designer, interiors, online, online interior design, Tarmaine Hales

Interiors Addict

Create a home with this new illustrated interiors book!

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 1, 2019
No Comments on Create a home with this new illustrated interiors book!

Having enjoyed at least eight homes in her lifetime and spent a childhood globetrotting (she lived in Japan, Hong Kong and Sydney), interior stylist Emma Blomfield is perhaps better placed than many to define just what makes a home. And it’s something she explores in her new book ‘Keeping House’ – an instructional tome, brimming with gorgeous illustrations, that promises to help you create the life you want regardless of the space you inhabit.

“Creating a home gives us a sense of belonging, connection and inclusion. It’s natural to want to have a place in the world and a physical and psychological connection to a space,” says Emma who created the book out of a desire to help people, whether renting or otherwise, make the most out of their home situation immediately.

There's tips on how to combine a dining table and home office — There’s tips on how to combine a dining space and home office

“For me, home has always been a safe, secure, beautiful and loving environment. It was when I was a child and now I try to create the same feelings for my clients and in my own homes. My house might be beautiful to me but someone else might hate it so it’s very subjective but ultimately, it’s the feeling the house evokes when you enter it and the items we place in our homes that help add to those nice feelings,” says Emma.

The book contains plenty of practical advice on setting up a home, styling and entertaining and is divided into two parts. Part one, ‘Sanctuary,’ covers all the essentials for setting up and decorating a home while part two, ‘Celebration,’ looks at how to create a home to share with the people you love.

The book contains plenty of practical entertaining advice too

“There are a lot of practical elements involved in setting up a home but I think it’s equally important to have a number of pieces in the house that reflect the homeowner’s personality, add character to the room and tell a story when guests visit and ask where you acquired your knick knacks. Some of the most important elements are, colour, texture and pattern. These can be in items like candles, throw rugs on the sofa, cushions on the bed and furniture pieces as well as books, trinkets and artwork. I’m a firm believer that no house is complete until there are artworks hung on the walls. It looks a bit bare without artwork!” says Emma.

“Play around with smaller items like side tables, cushions and throw rugs and make vignettes on your coffee table or kitchen bench to build your styling confidence. A hot tip is to photograph a vignette you’re styling on your phone to see if it’s working or not. Looking at something in 2D format helps point out what might be missing from the vignette you’ve created,” says Emma.

And it’s impossible to discuss the book without special focus on its gorgeous illustrations that were hand drawn by Juliet Sulejmani. “My desire for both of my books is for them to be timeless resource books to help guide homeowners through the decorating and entertaining process as stress free as possible. In order for them to be timeless I needed the imagery to reflect this as much as possible and I knew photos of rooms would date much faster than hand drawn illustrations. We wanted the reader to go on a bit of a journey and to add a bit of a playful nature to the book.”

Illustrations: Juliet Sulejmani

Keeping House by Emma Blomfield, RRP $29.99, is published today (March 1) by Hardie Grant Books and is available in all good book shops and online.

IKEA says memories make a house a home

Tags book, design, Emma blomfield, interior, interior decorator, interior design, interior stylist, interiors, styling, stylist

Before & Afters Design Interviews Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Before & after: 1980’s Italian mansion extreme makeover

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date February 20, 2019
No Comments on Before & after: 1980’s Italian mansion extreme makeover

Built by an Italian builder in the 1980’s this Brisbane home underwent an extreme makeover recently by its owners Chris and Christal Fysentzou of Zou Build who live in the home with their two daughters. Drawn to the home by its original internal courtyard, the couple set about giving the floor plan and aesthetics a dramatic contemporary overhaul.

“One of the main reasons we purchased the property was the internal courtyard so we wanted to base the design around that. It is the perfect spot to sit and have a drink in the afternoon or have your breakfast in the morning,” says Christal of the virtually unrecognisable outdoor area that now features a stylish black spiral staircase. “Originally you could only access the upstairs outdoor area through the internal stairs so we added the spiral stair case into the internal courtyard to connect the outdoor spaces a little better. But it’s also a beautiful feature!” says Christal.

Originally a maze of rooms, the home is now predominantly open-plan which wasn’t the easiest thing to achieve. “We knocked out lots of walls and it wasn’t much fun! Our house is double brick cavity externally and single brick cavity internally. The downstairs area was full of rooms and doors so we knocked the living and dining and kitchen walls out and made it all open plan,” says Christal.

Floor plan aside, the home had many original features that couldn’t be changed – many of which resulted in creative outcomes. “Our kitchen ceiling is a standout design feature. As our ceiling is a suspended concrete slab we needed to be selective as to where we could drop air conditioning ducts and plumbing so we made a feature out of this by using polished render,” says Christal.

Matte black, the home’s new user-friendly kitchen is another one of Christal’s favourite spaces. “No one loves wiping down kitchen cupboards so we used the absolute matte black in the Laminex range which is finger proof and is perfect given we have kids,” says Christal.

A nod to the building’s original owner, the renovation features statement terrazzo in the bathrooms. “We love terrazzo and given this house was built by an Italian builder, it only seemed fitting we stayed true to its heritage! But real terrazzo is expensive so we used large 1200mm x 600mm tiles in our bathrooms to minimise grout lines and for it to resemble the real deal as much as possible,” says Christal.

Another notable design feature is the home’s new timber floors, laid in an on-trend herringbone design. “I feel like I should mention the herringbone floors because they are pretty amazing and Chris almost lost his marbles laying them!” says Christal.

The backyard looks very different now too and the new outdoor fireplace ensures the space will be used all year. “Everyone knows when you live in Queensland, you entertain outdoors most of the time. We had made the inside look pretty amazing so we wanted to make sure whatever we did outside was special too. We teamed up with a great landscape designer, Elizabeth Weyer, and created a beautiful outdoor entertaining space which is light, bright and very inviting and connects with the inside perfectly,” says Christal.

AFTER fireplace — AFTER The outdoor fireplace was created using leftover bricks from the build

For more | Another 1980’s makeover

Tags before and after, brisbane, interior, interior design, interiors, real reno, reno, renovating, renovation

Before & Afters Design House Tours Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Before & after: A spacious modern farmhouse in Brisbane

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date February 14, 2019
1 Comment on Before & after: A spacious modern farmhouse in Brisbane

We’ve featured the work of Queensland based pianist turned builder Rachael Turner before and her latest renovation brings more of the same high quality. Located 10 minutes south of the Brisbane CBD, Rachael and her company Front Porch Properties purchased this 1930’s pre-war character home, renovated it and sold it within a year recently.

“There was no design brief as such as I was building for myself, with no client involved. However, the vision I had was to transform the run down home into a dreamy modern farmhouse that was contemporary but had storybook charm and would appeal to the general market,” says Rachael.

“The original home had some beautiful original features such as ornate ceilings and elaborate cornices that we worked hard to restore. We raised the home by two metres, built all new underneath, and meticulously renovated and restored the original part,” says Rachael of the expansive home that now boasts five bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living areas and a pool.

The hub of the home is a huge open plan kitchen, living and dining area that’s complemented by soaring 3.7 metre ceilings. “The modern farmhouse style kitchen has a cute butler’s pantry. We love the custom built produce drawers for potatoes and onions that were built from recycled oak,” says Rachael.

AFTER butler's pantry — AFTER butler’s pantry

Special mention should be made of the many entertaining areas also. “There are four separate outdoor entertaining areas, including a huge back entertainers’ deck with a sunken fire pit, eating area and super cute front sun porch with a custom porch swing,” says Rachael.

The spacious theme continues upstairs where a very large staircase connects through to the bedrooms and upstairs sitting room that has views through to the city. “The staircase is very special as it has sisal carpet, shiplap wall cladding, matte black balustrading, a huge window seat and a seagrass pendant,” says Rachael.

The master bedroom now has a huge walk-in robe and spacious ensuite too. “The ensuite was originally a bedroom and now has a huge freestanding bath, custom wainscoting, restored 1930’s cornices and ceiling and and a ‘his and hers’ vanity,” says Rachael.

AFTER double vanities — AFTER ensuite double vanities

“The vision for the home was to create something that would be extremely comfortable, easy and relaxed to live in. I was really careful in trying to tick all the boxes in terms of what a potential buyer would want. I love that it has many different zones and places where you can go to retreat,” says Rachael.

And as for the learning process, it’s a continuous one. “I’ve learnt that renovations of this scale always cost more than you think or budget for. The amount of effort that goes into restoring old character homes is enormous – especially if you are passionate about doing it right and paying proper respect to the original home. It would be easier and cheaper to rip things out and start again, but I’m passionate about restoration and this often comes with a hefty price tag. The outcome is totally worth it though!”

For more | One of Rachael’s other renovations

Tags before and after, brisbane, design, Front Porch Properties, home reno, home renovation, interior, interior design, interiors, real home, real reno, reno, renovating, renovation

Design Expert Tips Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Renovation ideas: 5 ways to make your home cohesive

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date February 5, 2019
1 Comment on Renovation ideas: 5 ways to make your home cohesive

By Naomi Findlay

One of the biggest questions I get asked from soon-to-be-renovators is how do you make your home feel cohesive without being boring? Well, you don’t have to press copy and paste on every room in the house – be creative, be fun and add personality to each space.

But that doesn’t mean your house should be like a box of Smarties though – here are my top five tips for ensuring your renovation is cohesive in every space without losing its character.

1. Choose a style and stick to it
Is your favourite style coastal, Scandi or contemporary? Modern, country or boho? Traditional, eclectic, rustic or shabby-chic? The list goes on…

Can’t decide? Combine two or three maximum! And then stick to this style in each room. I use Pinterest to find reno inspo and it’s amazing how much variety you can have in each interior style! Think of it like telling a story but not having to repeat the same page constantly.

Silk Home — One of Naomi’s recent coastal inspired rooms

2. Define your colour scheme
Decide if you prefer the tones of beige or greys and then expand to a few options in each palette. Not every room needs to be the same three colours – just try to keep them in the same warm or cool family. This will mean that colour and tonal changes will still be complementary.

3. Coordinate your floors, walls and window furnishings
Use the same floorboards, tile or carpet combination throughout your main spaces of the home for ultimate sophistication and flow. The floor is one of the biggest surface areas in the home so it can be an ideal anchor for the overall tone of the scheme. Then decide on the same curtains or shutters for all or most of your windows to complete the look. Your window furnishing will vary depending on the type of window they are covering and the privacy and insulation needed, but at minimum I always make sure that the front façade window furnishings are consistent.

4. Choose matching wardrobes, hardware and door knobs
Try to install the same style of built-ins for each bedroom. Keep all internal doors similar (except for any feature doors like a barn slider or double doors in the master bedroom).

Use similar tapware especially in the kitchen and laundry if they are near one another. Your home will feel unified and well thought out when you put these smaller elements all together.

5. Add the finishing touch with smart styling
Choose complementary large furniture and pieces in the home. This doesn’t mean you should buy all your furniture in sets – different chairs and tables add so much interest when done correctly! Avoid overwhelming the space with too much of one thing (unless you are going with a very SPECIFIC look and willing to follow it through in all rooms). If you have developed a cohesive canvas with the tips above then at the accessory stage start with your chosen colour palette and then tie in your cushions, artwork and vignettes.

Book shelf styling — Image source: Pinterest/cuddlesandchaos.com

Always remember to follow your gut when it comes to your home, and your heart when it comes to the things you want to see in it.

–Naomi Findlay is Australia’s Rapid Renovation Expert and works with people around the country helping them create wealth and freedom using her Rapid Renovation Formula. She is the founder of the International Institute of Home Staging and author of ‘Ignite Your Property Mojo’ and ‘Selling Your Property for More Money’. In 2018, she created and launched the Rapid Reno Mate smartphone app, the first app that can manage your renovation budgets, timelines and trades all in one hub. She is a featured designer on the upcoming Channel 10 show Changing Rooms.

Check out RENO ADDICT, our dedicated reno section

Tags expert tips, interior, interior design, interiors, naomi findlay, reno, reno addict, renovating, renovation, styling