They say you can’t go wrong with nature, right? Wrong! How you style your flowers can make them look anything from sad to spectacular! Want to know how to arrange flowers like a pro? Stylist Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors shares some simple yet brilliant advice below.
These beautiful floral artworks are by Brisbane’s Beth Kennedy. “Flowers are so beautiful and I love to draw and paint them, always beginning with a drawing, a slow and contemplative process before the loud music plays in my headphones and the coffee flows as I engage with the emotional narrative driving the work and begin to paint,” she says. “I only work on one painting at a time, as it completely absorbs me, until it is finished and then I move on to the next one.”
Julia’s floral styling tips:
1. Ensure the bunches are relaxed, not tight. A wider neck vase will help them fall naturally rather than look uptight! It’s all about ‘field flowers’ now, that look like they have just been picked from the garden.
2. Remember to play with the height and the scale of the florals, so that they create visual interest. If they are all exactly the same height, they will be far less interesting to the eye!
3. Mix varietals rather than always opt for one varietal only.
4. Always trim stems, and prune leaves for longer lasting florals, change the water every three days, and add flower food if you have any! Natives will always last longer too.
5. Find an accent colour in the room and tie the florals back with it, i.e. pull out a colour cue from an artwork and repeat it with the flowers for a considered look to the space. Buy beautiful vessels to house the florals in so that they can be a ‘work of art’ on their own.
Renowned Melbourne stylist Julia Green recently opened her own home to a group of eager students and the impressive results speak for themselves! Budding stylists, including recent The Block contestant Hannah Amos, left inspired and motivated after what some called a life-changing experience!
If Julia had a dollar for every time she has been asked for advice on establishing a career in the interior styling world, she could very likely pack up her props and trade them in for a life of luxury. So the founder of Greenhouse Interiors decided to share her knowledge with those looking to establish themselves in this popular and highly competitive field. Throwing open the doors to her Barwon Heads home for a second weekend-long workshop, six aspiring stylists were given the opportunity to learn what it takes to turn a passion for interior styling into a career. And they came up with these amazing photographs for their portfolios.
The workshop covered all aspects of the industry, from understanding personal style to working with photographers and other suppliers, as well as how to win business. Guest speaker Samantha Firestone also shared her knowledge of the importance of digital strategy, social media and marketing. A morning yoga session and an evening glass or two of bubbles offered a perfect contrast to the otherwise fast-paced schedule. Sounds good to us!
The workshop culminated in a professional photo shoot where participants brought to life their interior concepts using a new range of artworks by Greenhouse Interiors artists Brent Rosenberg, Morgan Jamieson, Prudence Caroline and Kimmy Hogan.
“As an aspiring stylist with dreams but unsure how to reach them, this retreat was life-changing,” Julia said. “We had such a group of amazing women, all with different end goals but on the same path, brainstorming and making plans.”
Participant Alexandra Carter said: “It was a truly life altering weekend and one that I will never forget. I have assisted on a few shoots before, but actually having a say in the direction of the shoot (along with the team) was so incredibly satisfying when all the shots came to life!” Ex-Blockhead Hannah added: “We were taught not only to surround ourselves with positive and creative like-minded people but not to be afraid to pursue our passion that sets our heart on fire. This was a money-can’t-buy experience and I have left feeling more determined than ever to chase my goals and start hatching plans.”
Sally Humphries said: “I feel like I’ve learnt a lot, but not just about making a room look beautiful. The weekend was a hell of a lot more in depth than that on a personal and business level. Only a very special person can bring that sort of honesty out of people and so quickly.”
“Bright futures, and a solid game plan now await this group of creatives armed with the passion and know how,” said Julia.
Celebrating ten years next month, Heatherly Design is celebrating with a fabulous new collection. From a minimal mustard bedhead to a lovely Kate Spade upholstered one and a luxurious tan leather foot stool, it’s arguably their best yet!
The Lucia bed
“The Lucia is the sister to our best-selling Rupert with the added bespoke detail of toggles made of leather and timber in the body of the bedhead. We really wanted to showcase something different in this bedhead and our upholstery team harked back to the duffle coat toggle from years gone by for that truly unique touch,” says owner and director Georgie Leckey.
The design also features the latest trend in beds – an oversized bedhead paired with a smaller base. “Bedheads wider than mattresses are a strong look. You can see this in our Lucia design using a king bedhead on a queen base, and the Lincoln too,” says Georgie.
The Armelle bedhead
With its low profile and mustard hue, the Armelle bedhead is a subtle yet sophisticated design that has feature piping. “It’s the perfect bedhead for those that don’t necessarily think they need a bedhead. It is low, sleek, incredibly comfortable and understated,” says Georgie.
“The Portobello is a black and white theme I have been longing to do for some time, so when this beautiful geometric weave came our way it was the perfect design for this scheme. We have chosen a king bedhead on a queen base and played around with scale,” says Georgie.
The Portobello bed
And straight to the top of my wish list is the new ‘Tate’ footstool with its buttoned buttery tan leather seat paired with a black wrought iron base. “The frame is made locally here in regional Victoria with our expert upholsterers completing the detailing of the seat,” says Georgie of the design that was inspired by the beautiful gallery stools and lounges you can find inside London’s Tate gallery.
The Tate footstool
Our small friends haven’t been overlooked either with the new range – the Stella is a gorgeous semicircle design that’s upholstered in fun polka dots. “The Stella children’s range is lots of fun and it’s finished in a stunning Kate Spade fabric. This circle patterned fabric called for a semicircle bedhead and what fun we had with this one personalising each bed with different colours!” says Georgie.
A pair of Stella bedheads. I absolutely love this look for a shared children’s room.
Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green and Noel Coughlan
Renowned interior stylist Julia Green recently made the bold (and some would say crazy!) decision to open the doors of her own home to six strangers for a weekend styling retreat and the results are incredible. Just look at these pictures created by her inspired students!
For two epic days, six emerging stylists — Tamara Broman, Maria Cerne, Carmel Bertina, Lisa Kefford, Helen Grima and Vikki Stuckey — immersed themselves in the all things styling.
Julia opened not only her house but also her heart, sharing everything from styling basics, to presenting the perfect pitch, industry expectations and most important of all, how to dream big! “It was a risk,” says Julia. “But I love taking a risk. It’s how you grow. They all left in tears saying it was the single greatest experience of their lives (other than giving birth!). Some sold furniture to attend, another forwent her 40th party to secure her ticket. They gave up a lot to come and I gave them EVERYTHING I had. It all paid off big time for every one of us.”
In addition, guests participated in a social media workshop with Sam Firestone of Sites by Sam. With over 20 years’ experience, Sam was able to navigate the pros, cons and hows of the social media maze as well as offer insights on how to make a social media profile stand out from the crowd.
Julia’s ethos is all about doing, not saying. “Styling is so much about learning from mistakes, you really need to get in and be prepared to get your hands dirty,” she says. And that’s exactly what these aspiring stylists did. The brief stated that the group were to be responsible for the conceptualisation, sourcing and execution of a lounge room, dining room, bedroom and vignette shot.
Photographer Stephanie Rooney collaborated with the team and highlighted how a shot that is beautiful to the eye can be downright blah through the camera lens (and vice versa!). After preening pillows, moving artwork higher then lower, and arranging throws with more folds and less folds, the group were rewarded with a series of professional photos (shown here) that will enable them to kickstart their styling folios.
“Each of these girls came from very different backgrounds, however they all shared a love of colour, a love of interiors and a desire to make a room more than just a space with pretty things,” Julia said. “They all got that a room had to make you feel something. I have a hunch that each and every one of these girls are going on to do something big, just watch this space! They left with was something money can’t buy … a sliding door moment that has now enabled each one of them to take their first step down their own unique career path.”
Those in the industry are already familiar with Julia’s boundless energy and enthusiasm but many questioned her move to invite strangers into her own home for a weekend. The decision however is one Julia does not regret. In fact, she’s going to be holding more intimate workshops in the future; the next styling retreat being scheduled for 17 and 18 March 2018. The cost is $2,200.
I know I got this one from a Megan Morton workshop some years ago, and it’s simple and obvious when you think about it (but also, it’s only easy when you know how, right?). So, this tip is basically, to try and add a round shape to a room to break up all the right angles. Think about it: sofas, beds and most tables are squares and rectangles. Sometimes a circle is all you need to get a room just right. Think round rugs, round art, a round coffee or dining table. A few years ago, the ‘in’ way to do this was with a juju feather hat. Remember when they were everywhere?! They’re still lovely but not as common now.
Image source: Shannon Fricke
Hang art at eye height
Another one which seems obvious but I see people getting it wrong all the time. I’ve been told this by a multitude of stylists and interior designers and of course, it’s right. Try and ensure the middle of your artwork is at the average eye height. Simple. Of course there are always exceptions with gallery walls and the like.
We all have these lying around and super stylist Steve Cordony says: “When styling accessories, I always love to layer with books to give height to decorative items. Balance, whether it be asymmetrical or symmetrical, is key. Always stand back and look at what it is you’re creating – you will know if it feels right using your ‘design eye’!”
Steve Cordony displays colour-coded books in his former office, shot by Jacqui Turk for Interiors Addict
Rugs: bigger is always better
I can’t attribute this to anyone in particular because EVERY interior designer and stylist worth their salt will tell you to buy the biggest rug you can afford! It’s always better to have your furniture ON the rug, not AROUND the rug!
Styling by Julia Green & photography by Cricket Saleh for Prudence Caroline
Shop without buying anything and from within your own home
Melissa Penfold says: “Keep your eye in shape by window shopping. It’s free, keeps you up to date and inspired, and you’ll pick up stacks of great ideas that you will be able to imitate at home.” Don’t have time to window shop? Hit up Pinterest and your favourite design blogs.
Of course, every stylist and designer has their own favourite way to make a bed, but Block judge Darren Palmer says: “Transform your bed simply by styling the linen with some complementary or contrasting coloured sheets, an appropriately sized bed cover, two decorative cushions and two Euro cushions added to your everyday sleeping pillows.”
Image: Darren Palmer styles for King Living
Leave the colour scheme until last
This one I learned from the master, interior designer Greg Natale, when helping him write his book, The Tailored Interior. So often we start with the idea “I’m going to do X room blue and white” or “that bedroom’s going to be neutral” but this is actually one of the last decisions Greg makes when bringing a room together. Try and think about the other elements of the room first, before the colour scheme, and you may find it works better for you.
I already knew this but had forgotten until recently when Briar Stanley from Sunday Collector was at our place styling a shoot for Pottery Barn. Try and give furniture room to breathe rather than automatically shoving it right up against the walls around the edge of a room. We have a huge living room so it was silly to have our sectional sofa right up against the back wall. Once Briar suggested moving it into the room a few feet, it looked so much better (thanks Briar!)! If you have space to do this, you could also have a sofa/console table behind yours, which is another great styling opportunity. Even if you don’t have a big living room, you may find that if you consider that the sofa doesn’t have to be against a wall, there are other surprising options for your furniture layout. Sofas in the middle of a space can also break up open plan areas really well.
Image Source: Kate La Vie
Look to your wardrobe for inspiration
This one’s from Shaynna Blaze of Selling Houses Australia and The Block, who warns not to get too caught up in trends when it comes to colour. “Look at your wardrobe and your accessories for inspiration, and determine what colours you’re most drawn to. This will help you settle on a colour scheme that suits you, and this is the hardest part! The fun bit is finding ways to bring this scheme into your home, whether it’s a bold feature wall or smaller accents of your favourite colour in furniture and accessories, complemented by a wall colour in a lighter shade of that colour.” (As some who has a 75% navy wardrobe, I find this works for my home too! Jen).
When you have kids, sometimes you have to just let it go!
One of our favourite stylists, Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors, says: “I would love to tell you I live in a pristinely well styled home but I would be lying! There is crap everywhere! I just let it go these days. Life is too short and I would rather hang out with my kids in my mess than clean it all up and waste the chance to see them. They are precious, precious people. Just messy ones.”
Well, that last one sure makes me feel better. Phew!
Based in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Lumiere Art + Co has forged a loyal following with its gorgeous range of art and textiles and its new range further consolidates on this. “My brand is all about making accessible, individually printed or made artworks. The name ‘Lumiere’ comes from ‘light’ and my brand’s admirers have an appreciation of bespoke artworks and textiles and love my pieces because they bring a special story to their home. They like the hand of the artist to be present in the work that I produce and this work shows that beautifully,” says Lumiere Art + Co’s Emma Cleine of her new ‘Inflorescence’ watercolour print (below).
‘Inflorescence’ by Lumiere Art + Co
“I like to evolve my work regularly to ensure my offering appeals to different styles and palettes. I worked on this piece with a fellow printmaker, Timothy Growcott, who works most of the year up north printing projects with indigenous communities. I can see an influence of two styles – my circular, water colour imagery combines with the screen printed petals that have a strong, linear quality. The petals of ‘Inflorescence’ are screen printed and hand coloured,” says Emma.
Emma’s work in the Lumière Art + Co house that is available to rent
From screen prints to colourful abstracts, the new collection is as varied as it is beautiful. “I want to stay ahead of the curve and set the trends rather than following them. I love colour and I’m a designer with an instinctive eye for creating the ‘colour moment’ in modern homes,” says Emma.
Lumière Art + Co house featuring Emma’s art and textiles
Emma’s new collection of art and textiles was, in part, designed for the new ‘Lumiere Art + Co House’ – a lovely holiday rental on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. “The opportunity to style, make and manufacture product for an entire home came along so I designed the range with the Lumiere Art + Co House in mind,” says Emma whose favourite room is the girls’ room.
Lumière Art + Co girls’ bedroom
“I loved designing for the girls’ bedroom with the bunk bed. The double sided quilts and artwork I made for this room, with their strong lines and painterly florals, marks a new direction for me however it’s still so true to my style and aesthetic,” says Emma.
Click here for more information about staying at the Lumiere Art + Co House and shop Emma’s range online.
Photography: Armelle Habib | Stylist: Julia Green | Stylist’s assistant: Rachael Harry
Not a week goes by when the latest crop of wannabe stylists don’t come searching for a job or work experience via our jobs board. Styling is a job that it seems everyone thinks they want or could be great at. Few realise the hard work involved and the persistence required to break into this very competitive industry.
Photo by Annette O’Brien for Merci Perci
Today, we chat to Noël Coughlan about how she did it and the all important path to becoming a fully fledged stylist. This means assisting and learning from those who’ve been there and done it, often for no pay.
Noël’s background was a varied one and it was after working in fashion for many years that she came to study interior design and decoration. “During my studies, I was lucky enough to be introduced to Julia Green (of Greenhouse Interiors) through a mutual friend and from here I began assisting her on various jobs. It was this encounter which put me on the styling path. I never imagined that four years later I’d be working full time with Greenhouse Interiors and running my own design practice.”
Photo by Annette O’Brien for Brent Rosenberg
While the work involved in assisting was what she expected, the reality of styling came as a a bit of a rude awakening. “Styling is such a glamorous word and evokes thoughts of cruisey days fluffing about, playing with cushions and beautiful things. Although this is partly true, it is damn hard work. There is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes before a photo shoot even comes to fruition. Creating concepts, sourcing props, locations, client meetings. There is a myriad of things that need to be considered before shoot day arrives.” It didn’t put Noël off though because of two important things: she wasn’t afraid of hard work and she absolutely loved what she was doing.
“When you truly love what you do, it’s absolutely worth it.” And assisting is without doubt the best way to learn the ropes. “Hands-on experience is the only way to really understand the wonderful world of styling. It really is a different world to what most people imagine. Learning from experienced stylists is invaluable, and oh so important. There are so many tricks of the trade which you learn along the way – so many so, that I am still learning!”
Photo by Cricket Studio for Society of Wanderers
While many stylists will work with a variety of assistants trying to gain experience, not all of them will get offered a job, like Noël did with Julia. So how can you make the best impression? “Being passionate, committed, hard working and trustworthy,” says Noël. “Staying grounded and humble will also take you a long way in this industry.”
Another important relationship, other than the one with your stylist mentor, is the one you have with your photographer. “You can have all the ideas in the world, but if you do not have a photographer who understands your aesthetic and vision you really have nothing,” Noël says. “Building a strong relationship with a photographer will enable you to work as a team and achieve some absolute beauty. Annette O’Brien and Cricket Studio are my two photographic creative geniuses. They know how to take my vision and turn it into magic.”
Noël notes it’s really important to be individual and follow your own style, rather than getting caught up in trends, which can easily happen. This will set you apart from the rest, and perseverance is key. “If you want something badly enough, keep at it!”
Photo by Armelle Habib for Antoinette Ferwerda
Noël assisted for about two years before she felt she had built up enough knowledge, experience and confidence to take on her own styling projects. “Knowing that Julia had 100% confidence in me, gave me the confidence to jump in and go for it! It’s so nice to receive recognition for my own projects.” Noël now also trades under NC Interiors, her own design and styling practice, which launched its new website just this week.
Super stylist Julia Green from Greenhouse Interiors shares her best wisdom on a topic so many of us get horribly wrong…
Photo by Armelle Habib
I’m calling it — the most commonly repeated interior decorating mistakes I see in my line of work are almost always with rugs. Getting the size right seems to bamboozle the best of them, and it breaks my heart to see an otherwise finished and beautiful space let down by an unfortunate rug selection. Here are some foolproof tips to help you get it right and save on the heartache and the hip pocket.
Tip 1
Almost every single time bigger is better. A generous-sized rug will give the perception that your space is actually larger than what it is. Your eyes are always drawn out to the edge of rugs so if you want to work with the optical illusion of creating a more generous room, GO BIG. Small rugs can often look lost in space if too small and lose their impact.
Styling by Julia Green & photography by Cricket Saleh for Prudence Caroline
Tip 2
Ensure the couch or the bed connects with the rug if possible so the room feels cohesive and unified.
Tip 3
The dimensions of your rug can define a space, as well as separate one space from another. Use it to create the geography of your home. Mark it out in tape if you need visual confirmation.
Tip 4
Colour and pattern are important when it comes to selecting your rug. You need to ask if yourself if the room is screaming out for texture, colour or both? Good rugs can be like art for the floor. And remember, rugs can either quieten the volume of a room, or turn it up!
Styling by Anna Chisolm for Greenhouse Interiors and photography by Annette O’Brien for Brent Rosenberg
Tip 5
Layer them up if you like a boho look. This can be a fab way to recycle rugs that are too small to hold their own. Look for a common thread with your patch working though, in either colour or texture.
Tip 6
Think carefully about the traffic on the rug and make the right selection accordingly. For instance, a light coloured rug under a dining table with kids is asking for trouble. Choose durable materials for high traffic zones.
Tip 7
Find a good rug dry cleaner. They can make your rug look brand new again for a small fee. It’s worth it if you have an investment piece.
Styling by Julia Green and photography by Annette O’Brien for Arthide
Tip 8
Try before you buy every time with rugs. Most stores are very understanding of this, and will loan out for short periods of time. Oh, and don’t forget to use an underlay to avoid any tripping hazards!
Tip 9
Always mask up the ideal size of rug you require on the floor first to clock it visually — then go shopping and don’t budge (much) from these dimensions. Or have one custom made to suit your measurements.
Just as their moniker suggests, the boutique leather brand Art Hide use cowhides to weave creative magic in producing their stunning, artistic wares. “Art Hide aims to take the raw aesthetic of a beautiful, natural textile to a whole new level. Our range adds warmth and texture to a space while looking cool and modern, yet classic at the same time. It’s durable, super easy to maintain and fabulous with kids!” says says Art Hide’s Kura Perkins (a former PR executive) who set up the business with her sister Bree Hay-Hendry (a textile and fashion designer) in 2009.
The fabulous range includes originally designed floor rugs, cushions, furniture and accessories that are created using ethically sourced leather products. “Art Hide’s premium quality cowhide is sourced as a by-product of the meat industry from regulated tanneries, where methods involved in tanning and dyeing are always safe for workers and are non-pollutant,” says Kura.
Aside from human rights abuses, unethical practices often result in a substandard product too. “Inferior hide rugs usually use cheap cotton thread that unravels and snaps, causing the rug to come apart. Often the hide has a dull quality and may smell because of substandard tanning practices and/or it may thin very quickly. Many are produced from factory scraps in India or Bangladesh, where unregulated tannery conditions are polluted and dangerous for workers,” says Kura.
The range is truly different to anything else on the market and we love the way the sisters have reimagined the textile. “We use contemporary design and colour and a range of innovative hide finishing techniques, such as laser burning, while still respecting and playing to the strengths of cowhide’s natural beauty. Our pieces have the ability to take the average interior to the sublime,” says Kura.
The company offer a bespoke service too. “We work with clients to create pieces that are truly tailor made. Art Hide materials work brilliantly as wall, floor and furniture coverings, creating a stunning and unique focal point in commercial spaces like hotel lobbies, bars and clubs, as well as in the home,” says Kura.
Sisters Kura and Bree
It’s the new range that really piqued our interest though – the use of colour in particular. “Colour is hugely important to us and we’re always developing new tones; many are showcased in the new designs. How fabulous is the emerald green?” says Kura, who worked with stylist Julia Green on this gorgeous shoot. We want one of each!
Photography: Annette O’Brien | Styling: Julia Green | Styling assistants: Noël Coughlan, Alice Atkins and Emily Whitney
Hailing from Queensland’s Coolangatta, artist Leah Bartholomew specialises in large scale, bright abstract paintings that capture the unique coastal environment that she calls home.
“My artworks are a response to my local environment. They are optimistic, colourful and easily recognisable by their clean, bold style and unusual colour palettes,” says Leah who studied fine art at the Queensland College of Art before moving to Melbourne and studying screen print design and graphic arts. “I ended up working in textiles and graphic design for Beci Orpin,” says Leah.
Melbourne certainly seems to have been pivotal to the artist’s career with Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors one of the first to champion her work. “My biggest achievement was when Julia contacted me and told me she wanted me on board as her new artist. Her belief in me has been the driving force to pursue art full time,” says Leah.
One of the artist’s murals
Leah’s subject matter draws heavily from the natural world and she’s hugely inspired by her daily walks. “I take loads of photos of plant life, flowers, rocks and the sky – all as reference material. I take a sketch book with me and note down things that take my interest or I write about my mood or draw specific plants,” says Leah.
The artist’s uplifting works will soon be gracing the walls of a the Sunshine Coast Hospital due to a recent commission. “I always wanted my art to be in a place like a hospital where it’s so important to have colourful and optimistic works reminding you of the beauty in life,” says Leah of the 10 works that will be based on the Sunshine Coast’s flora. “I sat with my Dad in hospital for months once and I still remember the Ken Done work that he had to look at every day and he loved it. I would love my work to resonate with someone like that piece did.”
While large scale abstract works are her specialty, the artist also paints murals by commission. “I was asked to do a wall mural for Inside Out magazine last year. It was a feature for a kid’s playroom and it received a hugely positive response,” says Leah who has painted a number of private commissions too. “I love doing murals as they are my largest pieces and standing in front of them is something else.”
Armelle Habib is one of interiors most sought-out photographers. I wouldn’t be exaggerating when I say we publish a home or furniture range she’s shot nearly every week! So when I found out she had decided to launch her own limited-edition photographic art print range — inspired by travel — I wasn’t surprised, but I was extremely excited.
“Launching my debut collection has been something I’ve thought and talked about for a while,” explains Armelle. “If I boiled it right down, my love of travel is what led me down the path of becoming a professional photographer, so hence this range is inspired by travel, warm climates, texture and colour!”
[contextly_sidebar id=”bkdpnPGNlXyk41S9tL9ktgN3SnsiEvEv”]Having recently entered motherhood, whilst also renovating her home (busy bee!), the idea for the range came about when Armelle was contemplating her blank walls. Finding herself daydreaming about Croatia where the skies were blue, the water clear and the air warm, she dug out some shots from the archives, printed one and hung it on the bare wall. “Friends have always encouraged me to curate a series, so with this and my reno in mind, I made some selections of other places I would love to be, and here we are. I guess it has been a long time coming. It has always been on the cards.”
Now rather than taking photos of beautifully styled interiors, Armelle’s artworks are being used to help style those exact same spaces, with her prints being very well-received. “It seems that people’s love of colour and exotic destinations is a shared one, and the prints are heading out to many interior projects and walls in people’s homes as we speak.”
Clearly a summer fan (Armelle believes she was a lizard in a past life!), her collection was inspired by her love of warm, tropical and exotic environments. “The colours and landscapes of Mexico were hard to beat and feature heavily in this first collection, as do beaches. My prints sum up the escapes I take in my head from the depths of our cold winter months here in Melbourne.”
So, if you’re feeling like an escape yourself (it may be summer but let’s admit Australia has notoriously moody weather!) check out Armelle prints now. All prints come with a certificate of authenticity and are signed and numbered.
Each week we shine the spotlight on some of Australia’s best designers, artists and stylists and have them share with us what’s making them tick; anything from the best gift they’ve ever received to their favourite holiday destination. Today we chat to Julia Green, stylist extraordinaire and founder of Greenhouse Interiors.
1. What is the best gift you’ve ever received?
Pardon the cliché, but without a shadow of a doubt my children. They bring me more happiness (and admittedly grief!) than any object. They make me feel better about everything, they reflect all of my values and they are my best buddies. Just one hug in their arms and I go to jelly. Babies don’t fall off trees (as I found out the hard way) and I feel very blessed to have helped make two healthy little souls — that’s a lot to be grateful for. So thanks hubby for the part you played too. They are the best gift I could ever ask for.
2. What three people would be at your perfect dinner party?
My mum, for her hilarity and gregarious non-judging ways. She is a hoot, and someone I am completely at ease with. If Patrick (from Offspring) was still alive, I would have invited him just to look at… but he’s dead. So perhaps Nina could come instead (in character because she was funny). And don’t ask me why, but I think I want to meet Guy Sebastian. Is that just random? He seems so lovely, and Mum and I could crank out some good karaoke with him, as we are partial to a bit of that after a few vinos together (she does the harmony).
3. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
I have been handed some pearls of wisdom over the years, that’s for sure. But my mother taught me from a young age to back myself, trust my gut feeling and to never give up. I now pass those values onto my own kiddliwinks.
4. What is your favorite shop?
Well funny you should ask as I just launched my own Greenhouse Interiors online store, so I am going to unashamedly say my own. I have had the honour of representing a group of insanely clever artists here in Australia for over five years and their talent has always blown me away. My own home is a shrine to their work, so I can say hand on heart, a store that supports them and their genius creativity is a place I would personally want to shop day and night!
5. What is your favourite piece of furniture you own?
Oh that’s like asking me to choose a favourite child… impossible! I love my Jardan bed and just wish I could spend more time in it. I treasure a host of beautiful original artworks from Belynda Henry, Ali McNabney-Stevens, Prudence Caroline and Armelle Habib, but my latest love is Rabbit Girl, a green resin sculpture from Gilli and Marc that sits atop my concrete hearth in the lounge room. Oh, and I adore my new black and white awning on my deck and my vertical garden. And I could keep going!
When two extremely stylish women team up to renovate, you know you’re in for a treat; and the Mentone house, transformed by blogger, model and TV presenter Rebecca Judd — with the help of interiors stylist Julia Green — is truly spectacular.
Once a small two-bedroom miner’s cottage in need of a full renovation (new kitchen, bathroom, garden… the works!), the home is now light and bright with a strong Scandi-inspired aesthetic.
The living room is an automatic standout and a favourite of Rebecca’s, who played with scale, texture, height, art and accessories when styling the room. “When styling a living room it’s all about scale,” explains Rebecca. “Make sure the furniture and rug are the right size otherwise they can throw the dimensions of the room out. I also look at where the light is coming from and do we need to add more? Also, where are the bare walls? Can we fill them with art? This will dictate colour palettes. Lastly, the function of the room — will there be toddlers running around putting their hands on everything (choose a leather couch) or strictly adults only (choose luxe fabric!).”
The bathroom and kitchen are also worthy of note, with the tiles (from Beaumont Tiles) adding a layer of luxury. “I definitely wanted to use marble and/or stone in a mosaic style — pure luxe,” says Rebecca. “Penny rounds (these were used in the kitchen) are timeless, classy and add a point of difference, plus increase the value of your home. I was ecstatic to find the white marble square mosaic tile in a 50x50mm size, which was exactly what I was looking for in the bathroom. I love that stone is slightly imperfect with rough edges and varying veins of colour. This softens a sterile bathroom environment, adds interest and is pure luxury.”
Choosing neutrals for the fixtures, fittings and finishes and adding interest through furniture and homewares was always Rebecca’s intention, believing when it comes time to sell it will be easier. However, that doesn’t mean the home is bland or boring, far from it! Rather, Rebecca put a lot of effort into the styling, focusing on proportions and colour. “People often buy pieces which are too small, so go for a bigger size, it will make the room feel bigger! When it comes to colour, choose one from your art (not the most obvious one) and use it in three items in the room whether it be in an accessory on the mantle piece, a cushion or an item of furniture. Use this chosen colour in your objects and dot them throughout the room so it takes your eye on a journey yet ties the room together.”
With the renovation now over, Rebecca has learnt some key lessons, and as we so often hear at Reno Addict her most important learning… stick to your budget! “I know it’s easier said than done, but by using good tradespeople and doing things properly you can ensure that you only need to pay for things once.”
Our recent post where bloggers shared a favourite corner of their home was so popular, it got us thinking who else’s homes you’d like to take a peek inside. And surely stylists would be top of the list? We asked seven of our favourites to kindly give us the tour…
Steve Cordony: “With the little time I get to spend at home, this is my favourite spot. The light streams in through windows and I grab and iPad or magazine, curl up in the cushions and shut off. Bliss!”
Lucia Braham: “I think it’s pretty predictable that the favourite corner of anyone’s home would be a place where your favourite pieces accumulate, right? I love this sun drenched spot for the multitude of lovely memories it evokes. The mantle is home to a small collection of my global flea market finds and a self portrait my mother drew in 1974. The chair was a bargain purchase which I restored myself and had re-upholstered in remnants of Belgian linen. The un-fired clay wall hanging is by Sydney artist Angela McNay, and I picked up the Pendleton rug, direct from the Wool Mill in Portland, Oregon, on a recent trip. This spot is a little insight to my travels overseas and I love it for the crazy mix of vintage, contemporary, antique and handmade.”
Jessica Bellef: “Owning a wall of shelves had been a dream of mine for so long, a sign that my stylist/hoarder tendencies are on the extreme end of the spectrum. My custom shelving was designed and built by my fiance’s dad and I, quite soon after my fiance and I bought our house. Running almost four metres across and housing favourite books, records and objects, I love how the shelves fill the space and compliment our 1970s home. And yep, our poor dog Charles Barkley is sporting a very undignified cone on his head in this shot. The little guy had surgery recently and he is now on the mend. The tail wags again.”
Aimee Tarulli: “My favourite corner of my home is my bedroom. It’s my quiet, calm sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of my day to day life! I love the soft layers of Cultiver linen on my bed in pastel shades, it’s so cosy and I get up every morning and just want to jump right back in. I’ve added lots of layers and texture through linen and velvet cushions and my favourite throw from Tribe & Co giving my room a lush, inviting feel. This is the spot I look forward to getting back to after a long busy day!”
Photo by Red Rabbit Photography. Click for details
Adam Powell: “”I’m enamoured by the theatricality of lighting so at night, this little corner comes alive. My newest addition is the lava lamp; time to bring them back I say! It’s hard to miss my obsession with colour, especially against that amazing chalkboard wallpaper.”
Julia Green: “I love my dark walls and how everything seems to pop with colour against them, including this photographic artwork print from Lumiere Art + Co.”
Photography by Annette O’Brien, table and chairs by Huset
Sophie Thé: “My favourite corner is the cockpit of my boat, where I can seat, read and daydream while looking at the world go by.”
For the first time in Newcastle, stylist Julia Green will be teaming up with interiors store Willows Home Traders, to host a styling workshop.
Julia. Photography by Armelle Habib | Styling by Julia Green
Julia, who you’ll know from Greenhouse Interiors (an agency that represents some of the hottest Australian homewares brands and artists), is a driving force in the industry. As a stylist, she has many magazine covers under her belt including Inside Out, Home Beautiful and Australian House & Garden.
Photography by Armelle Habib | Styling by Julia Green and Amber Lanette
The styling masterclass, which will be held 17 April, will run for two hours. You’ll receive styling advice on colour selection, how to use soft furnishings, dos and don’ts when choosing rugs, artwork placement, plus much more. Julia will also do some live styling – so you can see first hand how to pull together that magazine-ready look.
Photography by Armelle Habib | Styling by Julia Green
After the masterclass, you can explore the Willows Home Traders pop-up shop and enjoy 15% off all purchases. Held at Newcastle’s Hunter Design School, tickets cost $200 plus booking fee and include drinks, nibbles and a packed gift bag to take home.
Lucia Braham has been assisting Steve Cordony for years
We know many of our readers are design students and wannabe stylists so last year, we tried really hard to bring you plenty of inspiration on how to get into this highly competitive industry from those who have been there and done it! Today, we curate all those interviews here in one place. If you dream of becoming a stylist, this could be the best blog post you ever read!
We loved Lucia Braham’s no-nonsense rundown on what to expect as a stylist’s assistant. She’s worked with the best: Steve Cordony. Read more. It’s not all bad though; as well as giving a warts and all account of the very non-glam side to styling, Lucia also shares why it’s totally worth it if you’re really passionate.
Lucia Braham has been assisting Steve Cordony for years
For anyone thinking they’ve left it too late to pursue their dream of becoming a stylist, be inspired by Aimee Tarulli’s tale. She left a senior role in advertising to become a stylist after designing her own home with her builder husband made her realise how much she loved interiors. She started off assisting Julia Green at Greenhouse Interiors. Julia also left a completely different industry, pharmaceuticals, to follow her dream!
Aimee Tarulli at home. Pic by Armelle Habib
Not all stylists are women though! Meet Adam Powell in this interview. His work is popping up all over the place and we definitely think he is one to watch. He works part-time for Temple & Webster and the rest of the time on freelance projects, as many stylists do. His work has been featured in Real Living and elsewhere.
Photo by Maya Vidulich
It took Tahnee Caroll a while to work out it wasn’t interior design but styling that she was destined for. But once she worked it out, her career took off in leaps and bounds. Read her story.
When Aimee Tarulli was presented with her dream challenge — to design and decorate her new house from scratch — she knew it was time to leave her senior role at an advertising firm and try and get into the competitive world of styling.
By Armelle Habib
“I designed and built a new house with my husband Frank, a builder who owns building company Thomas Archer Homes,” explains Aimee. “Going through the whole process of planning the interior design and fit out for our home and then decorating the space, made me think about styling as a potential career. I had so much lovely feedback on my style I thought perhaps I could do this full-time.”
For Clickon Furniture. Photo by Armelle Habib
Two years later, Aimee’s dream has come to fruition, working full-time as a stylist, both as a freelancer for Greenhouse Interiors, and running her own interior styling business, Archer Interiors.
Doing a mix of both commercial and interior styling, Aimee loves the variety in her everyday work. “I am mostly involved in commercial photography shoots for Greenhouse Interiors. I love taking a commercial client’s brief and conceptualising the shot, then seeing it all come to life. On the other hand, the work I do for Archer Interiors is mainly private decorating and styling in people’s homes. I love meeting clients and helping them transform their own homes. I have met such lovely people and to see a completed room or home and the joy that brings my clients is just fabulous.”
For Clickon Furniture. Photo by Armelle Habib
Originally starting her career as an assistant to Greenhouse Interiors owner Julia Green, Aimee says she is one of her biggest inspirations: “I assisted Julia for over a year and still do if she ever needs an extra pair of hands. There is always something to be learned from every shoot. I adore working with her whenever I can.”
For Paterson & Steele. Photo by Armelle Habib
It was also thanks to the skills learned from Julia that Aimee got her first ever solo styling job, for an environmentally-friendly cardboard hotel. From there, Aimee’s career has only grown, having recently done campaigns for Lumiere Art & Co, Clickon Furniture, Goosebumps Bedlinen, and stores Paterson & Steele and Rockferry Homewares. She is also currently working on a huge renovation project in Mont Albert, Melbourne, an experience she is finding incredibly exciting.
For Lumiere Art & Co. Photo by Armelle Habib
All that being said, her biggest milestone still goes back to that first ever project, her own home, which Home Beautiful recently shot for their September issue. “It was such a proud moment to be recognised for my personal interior style and to see my own home come to life in a magazine.”
For Goosebumps Bedlinen. Photo by James Geer
With such a varied career in only two years of full-time work, Aimee has lots of advice for those wanting to get into the business: “Get as much experience assisting as you can, whatever the job, just go for it. Get as much of your work out there on Instagram. Instagram is a brilliant platform to showcase your style to the world, even if you’re styling simple vignettes in your own home – be creative and get it out there. You never know who may see it.”
Following six months of assisting with Greenhouse Interiors’ Julia Green, Alana Langan is now happily running her own styling business and online homewares store, HUNT & BOW. Here’s how she did it…
Alana Langan (Photography by Annette O’Brien)
Alana studied an interior styling short course at Central Saint Martins in London in 2011 and then spent six months assisting Julia Green in 2013. “For me, hands on experience was a priority rather than qualifications; I think you can learn a lot about a profession by jumping in head first and learning on the job, ideally in an assistant role. I think it also depends on your career direction. I always had the intention to have my own business so gaining this experience was a priority.”
She started Hunt & Bow, originally as an interior styling business, in 2012. Last year she added the online store string to her (pardon the pun) bow. “I’d always wanted to have my own business doing something creative, so I took the opportunity to develop the business plan during my maternity leave and then went for it. In early 2013, I was lucky enough to secure an assisting position with Julia Green which was instrumental in my career. Not only did I learn the art of styling, but also important business and industry aspects that go hand-in-hand with it.” After six months, Alana felt ready to venture out on her own, and she’s loved every minute.
Alana’s own apartment, as featured on The Glitter Guide. Styling by Alana, photography by Annette O’Brien
“My days are often varied, which I love. They can include sourcing vintage or modern products for the online shop, photographing stock and updating the website or working on creative ideas for upcoming shoots, running around town collecting props or meeting with clients. It’s a complete mixed bag!”
Alana’s interest in interiors started early. “I grew up in a home that always had some kind of renovation happening and was encouraged from a young age to get involved. When I was 12, I painted my bedroom and refurbished my first piece of furniture (a Queen Anne side table I decoupaged!) so it’s always been a part of my life and something I’ve loved doing. It wasn’t until I reached my 20s that I discovered being a stylist could actually be something I got paid to do!”
Alana’s own home as featured on The Glitter Guide. Styling by Alana, photography by Annette O’BrienGoo Collection Spring/Summer ’13. Styling by Alana Langan, photography by Robert Earp
The best part of the job is getting hands on at a shoot. “Being on set and in the flow of the scene you’re creating is just so much fun. Plus, it’s great being part of a creative collaboration with the team (photographer, client, assistants etc.). It’s a real group effort and when things are working well, you can really feel the energy buzzing around. There’s nothing like it!”
Working for herself however is sometimes quiet and a little lonely. “Thankfully though, I’ve built a great network who are really supportive and are always there whenever I need to bounce ideas around or just have a chat.”
Jacqui Vidal’s apartment as featured on The Design Files. Styling by Alana Langan, photography by Annette O’Brien
Great as the job is though, if you think it’s glamorous, think again! “There’s lots of furniture re-shuffling, running props back and forth around town and heavy lifting! Plus, a reality for me is being wiped out at the end of a long shoot. It’s non-stop work on set and it can be physically and mentally exhausting come wrap time.”
Alana’s top advice for getting into the industry is:
Get an assistant role to really learn about the job and the industry
Get yourself on Instagram and start practising your styling
Make a career plan of action and stick to it.
In five years’ time she’d love to still be doing what she’s doing, but perhaps with the addition of a bricks and mortar store in Melbourne. As a working mum, she continues to be inspired by women who run their own businesses and juggle the demands of motherhood. “They’re both the toughest jobs in the world.”
“My artworks are a response to my local environment. They are optimistic, colourful and easily recognisable by their clean, bold style and unusual colour palettes,” says Leah who studied fine art at the Queensland College of Art before moving to Melbourne and studying screen print design and graphic arts. “I ended up working in textiles and graphic design for 
One of the artist’s murals
