Tag: lighting

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How to decorate your rental home in a damage-free way

Renting. Let’s face it – it’s got plenty of challenges, but there’s a certain sense of satisfaction in transforming a blank slate into something that feels cosy and ‘you’. And there are plenty of temporary ways you can style your rental property without running the risk of losing your bond and upsetting your landlord.

A serial renter in Sydney, Sophie Cartwright is a lighting designer and founder of the gorgeous new lighting brand Soffle. Today, she shares her top tips for adding personality to your rental space.

Sophie Cartwright

Use indoor plants to add a fresh feel
Adding greenery into your rental space will give it an instant lift. Choose fake florals to jazz up your coffee table, add herb pots to add a homely feel to your kitchen, and an orchid or eucalyptus plants to reinvigorate your bathroom; an easy and inexpensive way to breathe life into your space.

Create a green corner and take it with you when you move house!

Create wow factor with a statement pendant light
The main light in most rentals usually comes from a pendant light. With so many different affordable styles available, the main ceiling light is a real opportunity to stamp your personal design aesthetic on the space.

As well as providing plenty of lovely lumens, a large pendant light can be a focal point in a lounge, drawing the eye as you enter the room and tying everything together. 

Replace window coverings
Roller blinds or stained old curtains can make a rental feel very run-down. Switching these out for drapes or new curtains is a great way to introduce new colours and patterns into your home. Trial different fabrics and textures to liven up any space. 

Draperly
Photo: Draperly

Use table lamps to introduce colour and texture
When starting to design your space, texture and colour are key ways to put your unique style into a home. As well as providing a lovely layer of warm, atmospheric lighting in a room, well-chosen table lamps can also bring a pop of colour and texture whether they’re on or not!

In the room below, the scallop jute Soffle lampshade paired with a textured base creates a striking look which provides drama and contrast against the neutral backdrop of the room.

Soffle lamp shade

Spend more on versatile furniture pieces
The downside of rentals is that you’re often moving from one to the next, and for this you need versatile furniture pieces that work in any space. Sophie’s top tip is to choose pieces that will work hard for you. Think coffee tables that have heaps of storage, ottomans that can double as toy chests, or sofa sets that work well together or great separately as a sofa and occasional chairs. 

west elm coffee table
A storage coffee table, like this one from West Elm, is a great idea for small spaces.

Create a reading nook with a floor lamp
Floor lamps add height and elegance to a room, and they’re also great for dividing spaces up and creating different zones such as a reading nook. You can make these cosy corners with soft materials and a fabric lampshade, like this reading nook by Sophie, featuring Soffle’s extra-large scallop lampshade. 

We love this Soffle Scallop lamp shade

Change up your lampshade for a quick transformation
Lampshades are an easy, effective, fun (and affordable) way of quickly styling up a room. As well as complementing an existing design theme, they can also be a way of introducing bold new colours, patterns, materials and textures. 

During the summer months, choose bright colours and linen textures to freshen up your look and during the cooler months opt for dark greens, blues and heavy textures to anchor your space and add warmth.

The Soffle scallop lamp shade below, in duck egg blue, sets off the hues for the rest of the room decor below. It creates a lovely, relaxing harmonious vibe while still hogging plenty of limelight for itself.

The brainchild and nickname of founder Sophie, Soffle offers a slice of Australian design that’s committed to doing good. Soffle works in partnership with SolarBuddy, and for every lamp purchased, they’ll donate $5 towards a solar light a child can use to light up their home with brightness and comfort. SolarBuddy works with children all around the world who don’t have access to this much-needed essential.

After trawling the Australian market in vain looking for beautiful, modern and affordable light solutions, Sophie took matters into her own hands. Soffle was created for like minded people who love the sense of warmth and welcome a well placed light can create.  

Shop Soffle online

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Design Designers Homewares

Sarah Ellison’s latest collab features stunning coloured glass lighting

Alchemy lighting collection

Looking as if mined from the earth, this gorgeous new lighting collection is in fact made from hand blown glass. A collaboration between the talented furniture designer (and ex Real Living magazine staffer) Sarah Ellison and the celebrated lighting designer Alex Fitzpatrick from ADesignStudio, the three-piece range is called ALCHEMY.

Alchemy lighting collection
Pendant light

With its textured, organic aesthetic, the collection features a wall light, table lamp and pendant light and is hand blown using coloured glass. The enlarged, rounded, pebble-like shapes area available in clear, sepia or salmon shades paired with contoured brass bases. Each piece also features LED technology and a black fabric cord.

“Lighting is the most powerful generator of atmosphere in any space and has been a product category my team and I have been exploring for some time. Having worked with Alex many times within my own brand, I didn’t consider anyone other than ADesignStudio for my first design collaboration in the lighting space” says Sarah.

Alchemy lighting collection
Table lamps

A sought-after lighting designer, Alex has collaborated with an impressive line-up of architects, artists and industrial designers (including Bates Smart and Electrolight), since launching his studio in 2016. This range evolved out of Alex’s fascination with crackled glass.

Alchemy lighting collection

“What’s unique about this range is that the physical shape and deep tone of the glass really does trick the eye momentarily into believing it’s looking at an exquisite natural stone. Each piece of glass is totally unique. The pieces are blown and formed by hand and then polished into shape. There’s a general dimension and form we follow, but we allow the glass to do its thing which is pretty special.”

Alchemy collection
I am coveting this beautiful salmon coloured wall sconce

Photography: Dave Wheeler

Shop the collection online

New interior trends 2021: highlighting texture, nature & clever design

If there’s one thing architects, interior experts, forecasters, and leading designers agree on it’s this: our collective experience of lockdown will fundamentally alter the way we live in our homes…
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Design Designers Expert Tips Reno Products Shopping Styling

Interior design expert Neale Whitaker shares four things to make your house a home

When it comes to transforming a house into a home, interior design expert and TV personality Neale Whitaker, certainly knows a thing or two.

Neale, pictured in his own home, says he has four fundamental rules when it comes to interior design. To transform a house into your own personal castle, you absolutely have to consider colour, light, functionality and mood.

Colour

When it comes to decorating, colour has a profound influence on our mood. The ‘60/30/10’ rule is a useful place to start when planning a colour scheme, especially for an open-plan environment.

“The rule means using approximate percentages of colour to create balance,” says Neale. “For example, using 60% of neutral or white, adding 30% of toning shades and finally a 10% flourish of contrasting colour.”

This creates an even palette and avoids stark colour clashes. Another simple rule is that blue-based colours will work best with cool whites, while red-based colours work with warmer whites. Neale recommends experimenting with colour in smaller areas first before committing to larger spaces. 

“Neutrals don’t sit on the colour wheel, but they have hints of colours that do and these should be considered when mixing neutrals and colours,” he explains. “Find out where stronger colours sit on the colour wheel and this will determine whether you opt for cool or warm neutrals.”

A key colour trend for the coming year is warm, earthy and spicy tones. These include pale beige, biscuit and parchment shades vying with whites and greys as a backdrop to rich colours like bark, olive and ochre. They have a subtle intensity that can be incorporated in spaces to create a cosy vibe. 

Light

Correct lighting is fundamental to how spaces function and how we react to them. According to Neale, there are three types of lighting to consider in the home: general lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting.  

“General lighting is a light source such as downlights or pendants that are used to illuminate a space from a functional perspective,” says Neale. “Task lighting is used for specific tasks such as reading, desk work, crafts and can have an aesthetic value… accent lighting creates ambience.”

However, more recent lighting trends to hit the market include natural light control and skylights. Australia luckily has extraordinary natural light, and harnessing this can actually improve the livability of our homes.

“A recent popular trend is using sheer curtains in conjunction with blinds,” Neale says. “It’s a combination that feels perfect for our light and our climate, and it can also add depth and interest to a room.”

To create this clever combination of sheers and window coverings, Neale suggests using window coverings such as Luxaflex’s Pirouette Shadings or Duette Shades for the base layer of the window. For the finishing layer, he recommends using Luxaflex Curtains, which give homeowners the opportunity to expand their design options.

Controlling natural light with the sheers plus window covering combination also comes with the perks of privacy, insulation and energy efficiency.

Functionality

The quality of your life inside your home really depends not only on comfort but also how functional and useful it can be. With the pandemic shifting our relationship with our homes, most of us are spending more time at home than ever before.

“Considering your priorities and what you need to live well and comfortably is crucial to sticking to a budget and creating a functional living and working space,” says Neale.

Kitchens and bathrooms are important focal points of our homes but also the most likely to be personalised. When redecorating spaces of function such as kitchens and bathrooms, it’s important to consider current trends and question if they will impact functionality in years to come.

Mood

Creating the mood of your home is what makes it unique and individual. The three most popular interior design styles in Australia are Hamptons, Scandinavian and Contemporary. Identifying the characteristics of these looks can help you decide where you are stylistically, and how you can create mood in your own home.

“Identify a general style that appeals to you and then layer it with your personal choices,” says Neale. “Don’t be afraid to mix styles and eras.”

It’s important to remember to style your home not only to your aesthetic appeal but to your comfort. The most impactful ways of adding mood and personality to your home are art and books. However, Millenials and Gen Z tend to opt for house plants which are also a great way to add depth, texture, and personality to your home.

“Make art choices independent to what is happening elsewhere in your home and go with what you love.”

After all, your home is for your comfort, pleasure, and happy place.

Neale is national brand partner for Luxaflex

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Four great tips for a warm and welcoming atmosphere this winter

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Decorating 101 Design Shopping Styling

Four great tips for a warm and welcoming atmosphere this winter

While Australian winters might not be the bleakest, this is a period when staying snug in the comfort of one’s home seems more appealing than heading out. As we approach that time of the year when entertaining and socialising moves indoors, it’s time to think about making the home more welcoming, using interior design to fill it with warmth and cosiness, and making it a season to look forward to. 

Here are a few tips from Great Dane to create a home atmosphere that is intimate and sparks joy this winter. 

Play with different textures

Make spaces look and feel more homely and inviting by using furniture upholstered with leather, velvet, sheepskin, alpaca wool and other textural materials. Sofas and easy chairs with leather warm up to match body temperatures, while chairs with canvas and paper cord maximise comfort. Add a finishing touch with woolly throws, plush cushions and rugs that enhance cosiness. 

Create intimacy and warmth with candles

Lighting candles makes the home feel more inviting, especially during the winter months. Candles add a soft glow to the space, making it appear more welcoming. Light candles in clusters of different heights, colours and shapes to add an element of interest, while also adjusting the level of brightness to suit the space.

Brighten the home with soft lighting 

The lack of adequate sunlight in winter can be harsh, and most houses can feel gloomy during the day. Chandeliers and lamps that illuminate with a soft glow help make a space feel more inviting, which is ideal when most evenings will likely be spent indoors. Lamps with pleated paper and textile shades lend a soft and cosy light to living spaces, exuding much-needed warmth. 

Connect with nature indoors

Celebrate the outdoors even while stuck inside by introducing greenery in the living areas. Flowers, garden cuttings and sculptural branches can be arranged beautifully in vases to introduce a touch of nature. Introducing natural elements also breathes life into the space, working as a source of inspiration especially if working from home will continue to be on the cards through winter.

For more information.

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Bedrooms Decorating 101 Expert Tips Furniture Renting

These landlord approved hacks are perfect for style minded renters

When renting, your options to personalise your space are limited. You don’t have to paint your walls or remodel the kitchen to have a space that reflects your unique style, however. Genevieve Rosen-Biller has provided her expert tips to make your rental your own.

Swap out blinds and curtains

If you’re renting, it’s almost a given the window treatments will be a little dated. The good news is that these can usually be swapped out easily and inexpensively. Hanging some fresh curtains in a neutral shade will quickly update the room and give it a whole new look. Just hang onto the old ones so you can put them back up again when you move out. (And take your new ones with you!)

Photography: Tuiss Blinds Online

Invest in beautiful bedding

Quality bed linen is a near effortless way to elevate a bedroom. This room should feel like a sanctuary and choosing pure bedding that is comfortable, breathable and luxurious will ensure you always sleep well. The enticing texture and broad colour range makes linen sheets a popular choice. Style in single tones or mix and match for a simple yet chic look.

Introduce plants

Leafy pot plants liven up and bring energy to any space, while keeping you feeling connected to the natural world. A big towering plant like a fiddle leaf fig in a bare corner, or trailing vines like devil’s ivy cascading down a shelf are instant statement maker. As a bonus, they will purify the air.

Living room
Photography: Sally Goodall

Add artworks

Art is a sure-fire way to add colour and personality to a place, and an art collection is something you can build on over time and take wherever you go. Most landlords will grant permission to add some hooks to blank walls so you can hang your favourite pieces. If this isn’t an option, lean oversized artworks against the walls on the floor and line up smaller pieces along cabinets, mantels and bookshelves.

Photography: Chloe Lambert; Art: Anna Price

Let there be light

Lighting can make a huge difference to the ambience and style. If natural light is lacking, bring in some floor and table lamps placed carefully around. Light fixtures that are daggy or clash with your chosen décor can easily be replaced with something more modern. As with the window treatments, just remember to stash the old ones somewhere safe for when you leave.

Photography: Sally Goodall

Cover the floor

A non-permanent solution to ugly patterned tiles, stained carpet or weathered floorboards is to layer rugs over the top. The larger the better, in colours and textures that give the room a new look while covering up all manner of sins at the same time.

Lounge room
Photography: Dylan James

Genevieve is the founder of Bed Threads.

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Design Designers Interviews

Unique designer lighting created on NSW North Coast

The 'Biarritz' wall sconce
The 'Biarritz' wall sconce

Raised on her family farm near Orange in New South Wales, Jillian Middleton always had a penchant for the handmade. “Everything in my childhood home was handmade. From the beautiful clothes the children wore, to the drapes, duvet covers, slices, cakes, savouries and gifts.” She drew on that experience when pursuing a successful interior design career, that took her from Sydney to New York, before returning to Australia. Twelve years ago Jillian moved to Byron Bay and established the designer lighting brand Gia Collectione, which is now known as Gypset Cargo.

Gypset Cargo
Gypset Cargo’s standard ‘Palm Springs’ chandelier is the hero of this space | Photography: @the.palm.co | Interior design: @coteinteriors

“I was working on interior design projects both in the city and around the coast and hinterland and felt a strong desire to develop lighting pieces that were artistic, three-dimensional and original – not something from a factory line like what I was seeing in my design catalogues,” says Jillian. 

With a solid background in design, she name checks many design luminaries as influences. From Flos to Charles and Ray Eames, Marcel Bruer, Mario Bellini, Archille Castiglioni, Willy Rizzo and Patricia Urquiola, disparate design inspirations inform Jillian’s unique aesthetic.

Gypset Cargo
Gypset Cargo’s gorgeous brass ‘Gingko Leaf’ wall sconce
The 'Barcelona' pendant
The ‘Barcelona’ pendant

The Gypset Cargo range spans wall sconces, chandeliers, pendants and floor lamps, made from materials such as brass, rattan and iron, making it a unique proposition in the Australian lighting scene. “There are many different chandeliers and sconces available in countries such as the USA and UK however they are tough to get in Australia and quite expensive to bring in. I was very inspired by designers from the USA including Celerie Kemble and Kelly Wearstler. These ladies reference a mixture of styles, from gothic to art deco and antique.”

The 'Biarritz' wall sconce
The ‘Biarritz’ wall sconce
The 'Fluted shell' wall sconce
The ‘Fluted shell’ wall sconce

The business’ new name is derived from the amalgamation of the words ‘gypsy’ and ‘jetsetter’ while cargo is a nod to the small NSW village of Cargo where Jillian grew up. “In the future, I have a vision to expand into artworks and other bespoke pieces, therefore the word cargo is appropriate for that too.”

Gypset Cargo designer Jillian Middleton

As for the brand’s latest collection, there’s a fair bit of on-trend rattan within it but Jillian explains it’s a material she has always loved. “I felt the rattan movement before it became so current. In my bedroom is a rattan and timber 1970s original dressing table I have owned for 15 years. I purchased it from a Central Coast op shop and loved the authenticity. The mirror has a curve to it which is so now.”

Shop online

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Styling

Home happiness: 5 design elements that affect it

With Australians spending more time than ever in their homes, it is interesting to consider the impact our interior has on our wellbeing and how it makes us feel. The subtleties of interior design often impact upon our happiness in ways we don’t understand. From colour combinations to squeaky floorboards, The Design Paddock share five interior design elements that influence the happiness of our homes.

“It is generally accepted that Australians spend 90 percent of their time indoors. This
is an enormous portion of time so it’s imperative to consider the impact the built
environment can have on our wellbeing,” says Millie Alison, co-founder of The Design
Paddock.

  1. Lighting

“Don’t underestimate the impact that lighting can have on your mood, emotions and
wellbeing,” says co-founder Katrina Garrett.

Lighting in a room can either provide illumination for the entirety of a space or it can highlight specific elements. Having different lighting styles such as ceiling lights, wall lights and table lamps allow you to be able to alter the lighting to shift the mood. Flooding a room with natural light can instantly lift the mood, allowing a connection
to the outside. During the evening however, we also need darkness to create a cosy
environment with softer light – candles and dimmable lights are a great way to create
this calming ambience.

2. Colour psychology

The colour palette you select for your home should have a positive psychological
and emotional effect upon you. Colour choices in soft, neutral, warm
tones are not only timeless but also calming and relaxing, particularly when used in
living or bedroom spaces. White is such a popular choice for people as it often feels
‘safe’, but people need to be mindful of how much white they use as it has the
potential to make a space feel cold and clinical.

Colour palettes for homes have the ability to energise or make you anxious. It can soothe or motivate – depending on the colours and combinations. Red and oranges can stimulate, while blue hues are calming. We suggest using the same colours, tones and textures in connecting areas, such as hallways and stairways to give the home a sense of continuity.

3. Sound

Is there anything more annoying than squeaky doors and cupboards,
or creaky floorboards? These sounds can agitate, and a simple spray of a lubricant
can fix this daily annoyance. If footsteps on the hardwood floor are disruptive at night,
put down a runner with an underlay. On the other hand, music in the home can have a positive impact on those in the space. Music can be incorporated throughout the home discreetly by installing speakers in the ceiling of your living areas both inside and out. This can create a lovely ambience when entertaining.

4. Textures

Textures and finishes can offer both tangible and visual experiences which can be
associated with a variety of feelings and it is important to create a balance between
the two. Mixing up patterns in loose furnishings such as cushions, throws and rugs
in the same colour palette, varying textures and layering with different shapes to make the space interesting but not visually overwhelming. The best rooms are those that are restrained and not too over decorated.

Incorporating texture can elevate the overall spatial experience and ignite the senses without you even knowing it. Texture works in a similar way to colour, rough textures are more likely to make a space feel intimate and grounded whilst the smoother bring a sleek and more luxurious vibe. We like to balance the two by incorporating different materials, different weaves and different levels of softness such as a leather to create a more seamless space.

5. Express your personality

Ultimately the interior of your home should be a reflection of your story and the people living within it. Following trends won’t necessarily bring you happiness
in your home and sometimes the things we think we want don’t actually make us feel at home. When you create spaces in your home with things you love, that’s a gateway
towards a happy home.

–The Design Paddock is a unique interior design and decorating company that revamps interior landscapes for people in the bush and beyond.

Millie and Katrina from The Design Paddock

Imagery: Sheri McMahon Photography

Improve your home with these 5 budget-friendly tips

With people isolated in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has undoubtably been an increased awareness and desire to improve how our home space looks and feels. Bearing in…
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Expert Tips

Improve your home with these 5 budget-friendly tips

With people isolated in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has undoubtably been an increased awareness and desire to improve how our home space looks and feels. Bearing in mind budget constraints and accessibility, Katrina Garrett and Millie Alison, co-founders of The Design Paddock, have compiled five attainable and cost-effective ways to revamp, uplift and refresh your interiors!

The Design Paddock’s Katrina Garrett and Millie Alison, Sheri McMahon Photography
  1. The power of paint

One of the most effortless ways to reinvigorate and transform a space is a fresh coat
of paint. A spot that’s often overlooked is the hallway or the entry to the home. These areas are important as they connect to the spaces you live in and can set the initial impression of the home. Over the years, walls, doors and trims can look battered and more commonly adopt marks or cracks. A fresh coat of paint can make the biggest difference here. We recommend a gloss trim paint to contrast against a matt or low sheen wall paint. You’ll be surprised with the impact it can make.

This doesn’t only apply to the interior. Consider redesigning or repainting your front
door or even the garden pots in your entry for a powerful change. This can instantly
achieve a more inviting entry!

2. Rearrange the furniture

It’s quite common to find that people become too comfortable in their home to realise that a slight rearrangement could transform a place and in turn, may provide a better layout. Many people tend to use the TV as the centrepiece of the living room, however, this should not be the case. Living rooms should be centred around conversation and comfort.

Between the warmer and cooler months, the perfect opportunity emerges to rearrange your home spaces. Fireplaces are the perfect centrepiece to arrange your furniture around in winter where the television becomes less of a focal point! Also consider moving your armchair beside a window to create a reading corner or a spot to wind down and enjoy some sun.

3. Switch up your lighting

Lighting plays a big part in determining the atmosphere and ambience within a room.
Considering subtle changes in the home can have a dramatic impact on the way a
space feels. Warm light globes around the home are a must in our books! Furthermore, consider where your lighting is focused and adjust it. You may like to highlight an artwork or incorporate a new feature pendant above your dining table.

It is important to note that lighting should be both beautiful and functional; thus, a directional light in a hallway is a great way to not only light up an artwork but will reflect onto the wall and light up the space beautifully. When considering your feature pendant, one should not only love it but include a suitable globe for illuminating the table appropriately when gathering around it in the evenings.

Alternating lighting throughout the house is another way to make spaces feel cosy.
Incorporate varying scales and heights in your lighting such as table lamps, floor lamps, wall lights, dimmable ceiling lights and pendants in soft textures to create
interest and an overall lovely ambiance.

4. Reprioritise and declutter

With the extra time people are spending at home recently, there is no better time to take charge and rid your home of clutter! Explore new ways to store and conceal possessions in cabinets or boxes and if there isn’t space and you no longer need items, let go. Interiors should feel full but not cluttered. Less is more!

Organising the bookshelves can bring life to a forgotten area. It’s always good to
start with larger items such as bowls, jugs or artwork — this will help achieve the right
scale and balance. Books are a beautiful inclusion to an interior. Try stacking books
in varying directions on the shelf to add interest. Most importantly, the bookshelves
are a reflection of your life and style. Add your treasured keepsakes on top of piled
books – different heights can help balance your shelf styling.

5. Reinvigorate with soft furnishings

Soft furnishings present an opportunity to incorporate colour, texture or
pattern to a space without the intensive labour! You can soften your bedroom with a rug beneath the end of your bed, introducing a bedhead, re-covering a chair or new throw cushions.

Deciding on your favourite fabric can often be difficult, particularly if you can’t afford your favourite. Be clever with the way you use your fabric. A cost-effective way of achieving a similar result may be to upholster the back of your cushions or bedhead with an affordable plain fabric. You can use some beautiful tea towels or fabric cuttings to frame for some affordable art!

–The Design Paddock is a unique interior design and decorating company that revamps interior landscapes for people in the bush and beyond.

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Interior design trends 2020: Josh & Jenna’s picks

Whether you are renovating a home because it’s new, or you want to increase your comfort and enjoyment, it’s important to keep up-to-date with the most relevant interior trends and styles. According to a recent study, 1 in 6 Australians have home renovations on their wish list but are unable to currently afford home improvements.

Ex Blockheads, HPM ambassadors and home renovation experts, Josh and Jenna Densten, share their top four interior design tips for 2020, designed to make renovating your home simple and cost efficient.

Josh and Jenna
Josh and Jenna Densten in their new North Melbourne home

“We love the finished result of our home. The intricate details, small finishings and simple gadgets we have carefully selected help make our home practical yet adaptable. To make our house feel like a home, we source each item carefully to ensure it marries with our overall aesthetic for a calming yet homely feeling, that is perfect for our growing family,” says Jenna Densten.

Consider colour
Studies show that colours can affect our mood. Therefore, when renovating it’s important to select colour schemes that evoke complementary emotions to the space you are trying to create. In 2020, we can expect to see more houses utilising warm and earthy tones, like clay, to create a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.

If you’re worried about making permanent changes with colour, start small by adding pops of colour using kitchen appliances, light switches and cover plates, and art work.

Colour is the hero in Josh and Jenna's children's room
Colour is the hero in Josh and Jenna’s gorgeous children’s room

Mix metals and materials
For novice renovators or home builders, mixing metals can seem like a big ‘no go’. However, by following some simple rules it can transform a boring all white space into an interior gold mine. Balance warm and cool metals by using one as the dominant feature and the other as an accent. This typically works well in bathrooms, kitchens and for ceiling spaces.

Seen on the right, the HPM Excel VIVO Coverplates range is available in a range of colours to suit your personal taste. The cover plates easily clip on/off making them simple to alternate colours as your preferences change.
Brass & copper: Seen on the right, the HPM Excel VIVO Coverplates range is available in a range of easy to change colours to suit your personal taste.

Shape and size
This year curved and cylindrical shapes will evolve as these free form shapes become increasingly popular. Simultaneously, modern finishes and clean lines add luxury appeal. Pendant lights, often referred to as the ‘jewellery of lights,’ are a simple home feature that can tap into these design aspects to either highlight the size of a room, or create an intimate, ambient mood.

Pendant light
This gorgeous pendant light works a treat in Josh and Jenna’s lounge room

Less is more
As open floor plans continue to be the trend for new homes, it’s important to make your space functional and practical. To save space in your home office or kitchen pantry and to keep them tidy, simple gadgets like the HPM wireless charging pad can charge your phone, laptop and wireless earbuds without the hassle of cords.
Josh and Jenna

Photography: Kit Haselden

For more on HPM | 2020 interior design trends: Top 8 according to Houzz

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Expert Tips Interviews Styling

Pendant lights: Does your dining room need one?

In this instalment of our Ask The Stylist series with Alex Carter of Harlow + Willow, a reader writes in with a pendant light dilemma. Should she install one over her dining table, or not?

Stylist Alex Carter
Stylist Alex Carter

Reader question: Do I need a pendant light over our dining table? We had one, which was removed after it was damaged. We have uplights and a lamp in the same room. Should I replace it?

Answer: As to whether you really need a pendant over a dining table, there are so many things that can impact this decision. I’ll go through a few general considerations to think about below.

Size of the dining area
The size of the dining space and the dining table will greatly affect the decision as to whether to  have a pendant light. I’m assuming in this case it’s a decent size (given there was a previous pendant), but did it feel comfortable or did it dominate when using the table?

I wouldn’t suggest a pendant light for anything smaller than a six seat table personally, unless it’s going to be quite small or hung high, but that defeats the purpose.

Photography: Stephanie Rooney | Styling: Harlow + Willow
Photography: Stephanie Rooney | Styling: Harlow + Willow

Is the spaced defined?
A really nice way to design and style your home is to create zones for specific areas; this can be done in any home, even if it’s open plan. Areas can be defined by artwork, rugs or lights. If you have an open plan living and dining area, a pendant light can help to make the dining space feel like a discrete space, and create a focal point.

Photography: Stephanie Rooney | Styling: Harlow + Willow and Ali
Photography: Stephanie Rooney | Styling: Harlow + Willow and Ali

Style of pendant
Should you decide to go ahead, the style of the pendant is the next big decision! Keeping in mind the house and the rest of the decor, you could choose to go with a simple yet striking glass pendant, such as a long line design or an architectural  light. Alternatively, you could go for a softer and more textural style and opt for either a fabric or paper pendant.

Also, taking into account what else is surrounding the dining table, if there is a large and dominating artwork or bold wallpaper, you may decide to opt for a more simple and transparent light. If the room is quite simple, make the pendant the feature!

Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors and Harlow + Willow
Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors and Harlow + Willow

Consider the surrounding lighting
An important consideration is what other lighting exists in the space; is the pendant required to light the dining table or is it for decorative purposes only? This will also impact the style of pendant that you go for, and the spread of light you need (the amazing team at Lights Lights Lights talk a lot about this on their Instagram account, so head over there if you’re not sure about this). I would advise separate controls too, so that you can have just the pendant switched on for a moody effect!

Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Harlow + Willow and Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors
Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Harlow + Willow and Julia Green of Greenhouse Interiors

For more about Alex

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Expert Tips Interviews Smart Home The Block

Home energy efficiency: Blockheads Josh & Jenna’s tips

Josh & Jenna with their daughter
Josh & Jenna with their daughter

There’s no doubt that home energy efficiency is top of mind for many Aussies; rising energy prices, increasing demand for non-renewable energy and environmental concerns are all contributing factors. We caught up with home reno experts, and HPM ambassadors, Josh and Jenna Densten who shared their top five energy efficiency tips to help reduce your household expenses.

Josh & Jenna with their daughter
Josh & Jenna with their daughter

“Aside from the obvious installation of solar panels and water tanks, many everyday Aussies are lost when it comes to making smarter energy savings choices. We believe having a more mindful and energy efficient home is increasingly important, not only because it will help increase the home’s value but investing in the right products upfront will help you save money in the long-term,” says Josh Densten.

Whether you’re a new homeowner required to have a six-star energy efficiency rating or a current homeowner or renter, there are several features that can be applied around the house and garden to minimise your carbon footprint.

Switch to LED lights
On average, lighting in Australian homes consumes 8-15 per cent of the average household electricity budget, or about 6 per cent of its energy use. LED lights are a more energy efficient and eco-friendly option for lighting, and cheaper to run than halogen lights by 80 per cent. LED lights are very long-lasting compared to other lighting, with an average 30,000 hours life expectancy.

HPM downlightHPM use quality components to make their lights even more durable, meaning they are expected to last up to 20 years based on 3-4 hours usage per day. They even have a product (‘MR16 Retrofit Downlight’) that is compatible with many existing halogen transformers and can be easily retrofitted by you at home.

Smart switches
The ability to monitor and reduce our energy consumption is becoming increasingly available, with smart home switches and sockets. With HPM’s ‘Arteor with Netatmo,’ white good appliances and devices like the fridge, aircon, washing machine, dryer, lighting, pool pump, can be monitored through an app. This includes instantaneous power consumption, remote surveillance and control over various functions when the user is out and about.

While you can monitor the connected home in real-time with push notifications like “Home: Living Room light has been left on since 7.15am”, the app also allows for a more long-term analysis of the house or individual appliances.

HPM's 'Arteor with Netatmo' switch
HPM’s ‘Arteor with Netatmo’ switch in action

Cost-effective ceiling fans
In the summer, ceiling fans are a cost-effective alternative to cooling when compared to air-conditioning. In fact, ceiling fans can save you up to 30% on your cooling costs in the summer. On those sweltering summer days, ceiling fans can be used in conjunction with your aircon to help circulate the cool air faster, so there is no need to run it for as long.

During the cooler months, HPM ceiling fans have a ‘winter mode’ that will rotate the blade counter-clockwise at a lower speed. This gentle updraft will essentially help to push the warm air, which naturally rises to the ceiling, down along the walls to the floor to keep everyone in the family snug and comfortable.

Use timers
Remembering to turn off devices can be difficult when you have many other household chores to do. Timers are ideal for magically turning on and off devices like Christmas and garden lights, pool pumps, heaters, fans, heated towel rails and dryers. During those cooler months, timers are great for setting the heater to automatically switch off one hour after going to bed, and to switch on before you wake up!

Commando Generale

Save with sensors
Ideal for bathrooms, pantries, hallways, walk-in wardrobes, garages and around the sides of the house, sensors are a great energy saving light management solution.

The HPM ‘360° PIR Movement Sensor’ system automatically activates light when a doorway is opened or movement is detected, resulting in numerous hours of saved electricity when the area is not in use. By eliminating the possibility of lights being left on when not required, the system has an 80% energy saving rating overall when compared to conventional lighting. Furthermore, the sensors are easy to install, meaning you can do it yourself, saving time, money and the planet!

For more on the HPM range | Stylish lighting tips from The Block’s Josh & Jenna

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Competitions Design Designers Furniture Homewares Shopping

2019 VIVID Design Awards finalists & ticket giveaway!

Australia’s longest running and highly regarded design competition VIVID (Vibrant Visions in Design) is back again this year with a fresh crop of talented finalists. The program, currently in its 16th year, has helped kickstart many successful design careers and is an important part of the local and international design industry.

This year’s 53 successful finalists (the largest field ever) entered across four key categories including Furniture, Lighting, Concept and Object in the competition that runs alongside the Decor + Design show. Today we’re bringing you some of our favourites.

'Object' finalist Manuel Canestrini's 'Colonnade' is a metal stackable indoor planter box that is inspired by ancient roman aqueducts.
‘Object’ finalist Manuel Canestrini’s ‘Colonnade’ is a metal stackable indoor planter box that is inspired by ancient roman aqueducts

Inspired by Australia’s beautiful coastlines, Simon Haeser’s ‘Oceania’ is a stand-out piece from the Furniture category. The modern two-seat sofa boasts clean lines and curves and while sophisticated embraces comfort too.

Finalist Simon Haeser's 'Oceania'
Furniture finalist Simon Haeser’s ‘Oceania’

Another notable Furniture finalist is a submission from a trio of designers (Rachel McGuigan, Kerri Hollingsworth and Zetta Kanta) who collaborated to create ‘form. fibre. furniture’ which is a collection of three textured, multi-purpose storage ottoman/coffee tables with reversible lids.

Finalist 'form. fibre. furniture' by Rachel McGuigan, Kerri Hollingsworth and Zetta Kanta
Furniture finalist ‘form. fibre. furniture’ by Rachel McGuigan, Kerri Hollingsworth and Zetta Kanta

The Lighting finalists are also a bunch of gems but Pauline Tsolos’ ‘Brass Wall Sconce’ is notable for its beautiful, oyster-like appearance. Akin to jewellery, the piece of functional sculpture is hand-crafted in Melbourne.

Lighting finalist Pauline Tsolos' Brass Wall Sconce
Lighting finalist Pauline Tsolos’ ‘Brass Wall Sconce’

The Concept category is always interesting, and this year is no different. We particularly like ‘Freka. The Chair’ by Ivana Dancova who based the piece upon the multiple ways that a human body twists and contorts in its physical environment, by inspiring physical interaction with what is essentially a statement-making bulbous latex inflatable. Fun! It reminds us of the iconic B&B Italia Gaetano Pesce Series.

Concept finalist Ivana Dancova's 'Freka. The Chair’
Concept finalist Ivana Dancova’s ‘Freak. The Chair’

The Object category produced many fabulous finalists including Marta Figueiredo’s colourful ‘TOTEMS.’ Made from wool, acrylic paint and pine, the tactile items are comprised of one ottoman and two sound absorbent sculptures that plays with human scale – the pieces are 2.5 metres, 2.1 metres and 0.5 metres respectively.

Object finalist Marta Figueiredo's 'TOTEMS'
Object finalist Marta Figueiredo’s ‘TOTEMS’

This year’s judges, and leading industry figures, include George Danos (JR Furniture), Hayley Beaden (Tait), Dan Treacy (Rakumba), Fil Bjazvic (Latitude), Jan Henderson (Inside Magazine) and Natalie Mortimer (Australian Design Review). The winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony on Thursday July 18.

To celebrate the VIVID exhibition, you can check out all of the finalists in the flesh courtesy of our latest competition. We’re giving away two tickets to a seminar of your choice at the upcoming Decor + Design show (18 – 21 July, 2019) International Speaker Series, being headlined by Cortney and Robert Novogratz. You must be a member of the trade to register to attend the show free of charge. 

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Explore all of the finalists | Register for Decor + Design

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Design Interviews Shopping

Latest klaylife chandeliers combine beads with macramé

klaylife chandelier

Teeming with deep, dark inky tones, the latest klaylife chandelier collection represents a moodier turn for the brand – just in time for winter. “We have introduced an ink tone that can be applied as a monotone colourway. It’s perfect for moody, deep toned spaces but it also anchors our spectacular ink, indigo and white ombré chandelier that can be styled to suit everything from beachy interiors to more sophisticated room scapes,” says klaylife’s Kerri Wallace.

klaylife chandelier

The gorgeous ombre beading technique has become something of a klaylife signature and it features heavily in the new range. “My personal favourite would have to be the new ombre dome. The ombre beading technique has become synonymous with klaylife and we couldn’t wait to apply it to our best-selling style. Thousands of small beads make up each individual piece and it is a true work of art,” says Kerri.

And while on the topic of art, the range also features a collaboration with Melbourne artist Elena Martorella of Three Queens Interiors that fuses beads with macramé to fabulous effect. “Elena’s signature macramé work has been interwoven with soft grey-toned clay beads and the result is a chandelier that’s romantic and delicate. It’s ideal for bedrooms or lofty spaces where you want a softer look,” says Kerri.

klaylife
Artist Elena Martorella’s gorgeous clay bead and macramé pendant

“I fell in love with Elena’s artistry and unique style of wall hangings and I thought they would look cool with our clay beads. I approached her and she jumped at the chance of weaving our hand rolled beads in her macramé. Every few months we release a collection of Elena’s one-off wall hangings and they sell out in half an hour so when she asked if she could ‘have a play’ with lighting, we couldn’t wait to see what she would conjure up.”

klaylife
That’s one of Elena’s stunning wall hangings on the right

And in great news for klaylife, demand for the brand’s wares shows no sign of abating with pieces often selling out before they leave Africa and arrive in Australia. “There is a definite demand for klaylife amongst the discerning, who appreciate the handmade nature and beauty of our pieces. Unlike the cheap wooden copies, no two klaylife pieces are identical. Sometimes, if you look closely, you might spot the finger print of the person who rolled the beads, making each one as unique as it is beautiful,” says Kerri.

klaylife

“We have a small warehouse in Australia where we keep some stock, but we are also shipping all over the globe. Global expansion is a focus for us this year and we are in talks now about how we can take klaylife to the world stage,” says Kerri who could perhaps use the services of Hollywood actor Patrick Dempsey (aka McDreamy from Grey’s Anatomy) who is a devotee of the brand and owns three klaylife chandeliers.

“He posted a pic of one of the chandeliers to his Instagram account that has 3.7 million followers. He told them about the story of klaylife so he’s been a wonderful non-paid brand ambassador! Next stop, Oprah!

klaylife
The ombre dome chandelier is Kerri’s favourite piece from the new range

Kerri adds: “Our focus will always be our lighting and how we can develop new pieces which are more impressive than the last, but we are also exploring new categories. We are about to release a range of hand felted cushions, also handmade in Africa. Whatever we do and whatever we become, Africa and its amazing people will always be at the core of our business.”

klaylife

Photography: Armelle Habib | Art direction & styling: Jacqui Moore

Shop online | Lighting tips from IKEA Australia’s head of interior design

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Design Homewares

Starburst lights: all you need to know about this trend

Celestial light fixtures are one of the biggest design trends at the moment, with Pinterest saves for the starburst design increasing 137% globally since last year, according to the Pinterest Home Report.

They’re a throwback to the ’60s era of mid-century modern glam and evoke serious Mad Men vibes. However, you don’t have to be a mid-century lover to incorporate this trend into your home. The fixtures also work exceptionally well in modern, contemporary and Scandinavian interiors.

Scroll through this edit of Pinterest inspiration to see how a starburst chandelier can steal the show in myriad different spaces.

Image: Pinterest/Glam Room Decor

Image: Pinterest/Showroom21

Image: Pinterest/My Bed Linen

Pinterest/Showroom21

Image: Pinterest/Toni Wheatley

Image: Pinterest/Homepolish

Pinterest’s 2018 Home Report 

For more Pinterest trends: Monochrome kitchens & bathrooms

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DIY RENO ADDICT

Switch light fittings in seconds — without a sparky!

We all know lighting is not only functional, it’s essential for setting the style and mood of a room, but it’s also one of the hardest and most expensive things to change when renovating.

Melbourne-based engineer and industrial designer Adam Cusick is changing all that with the launch of his new invention Snap Lighting which lets you change an entire light fitting in just five seconds (minus the tools and electrician)!

The system includes recessed sockets and a range of compatible fittings. The sockets need a one-time installation by an electrician or handyman, then fittings simply push in and push out with just one hand. Watch how it works:

The brilliant invention is already attracting high interest from renovators, builders, interior designers, decorators, homeowners and renters. The initial range will include a variety of recessed downlights and pendants, later expanding into flush mount lights, spotlights and more.

Snap Lighting has launched on Kickstarter where you can support the project by pre-purchasing at discounted prices. After the Kickstarter campaign (which ends in two weeks), Snap Lighting will be available in Australia mid-2019 through their online store and retail stockists.

Visit the Snap Lighting website for more information on this clever invention

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Art Homewares Shopping Smart Home

We’re loving: Ceramic pendant lights by Sarah Tracton

Sarah Tracton pendant lights
Sarah's pendant lights

Given each of her pieces takes four to six painstaking weeks to complete, Melbourne-based ceramic designer and illustrator Sarah Tracton must know a thing or two about perseverance. “I create porcelain works in small batches, which is the equivalent of clay slow cooking. My studio is rather like a science lab, in which no part of the process can be rushed. It is a rigorous journey of trial and error, and knowing the tenuousness of wet and dry in order to avoid cracks. Witnessing the collision between water, heat and atmosphere is often fraught – clay can be temperamental and patience is essential!” says Sarah.

Sarah Tracton ceramics
Sarah’s beautiful vessels feature a marbled finish

With no two pieces the same, each of Sarah’s ceramics involve two clay firings (once at 1000 degrees and again at 1280 degrees) and the pieces are sanded by hand in between for a smooth finish. “Marbled chromatic landscape panorama coloured surfaces akin to landscape topography are the result,” says Sarah who graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art from the National Art School in East Sydney and has been featured in House and Garden and Vogue Living magazines.

Sarah Tracton in the studio
Sarah in her studio

“My works are like characters I get to know as they journey from pliable porcelain sheets of slip towards two firings. Their colours morph and transform as they undergo their reaction with new atmospheres, a journey of water and heat. This unveiling of colour is a metamorphosis that is fascinating to watch,” says Sarah.

Sarah’s oeuvre includes a variety of vessels and more recently a series of beautiful pendant lights. “I transitioned from constructing vessels to lighting as it is ultimately a piece of design that sets centre stage in a room, and it has longevity into the future. It’s a thrill knowing that something I created by hand is adaptable and functional for everyday life,” says Sarah.

Sarah Tracton pendant lights
Sarah’s pendant lights

Aimed at fusing fine art with functional design, Sarah’s lights are all one-off creations. “When something is created 100 per cent by hand, each piece is unique in a way that cannot be replicated in a homogenous mass-making process,” says Sarah who spends equal time on her drawing practice too.

One of Sarah's illustrations
An illustration by Sarah

“In the process of drawing I enter a meditative and hypnotic state in which I experience creative immersion in total silence. I work across charcoal and pen mediums, fusing abstraction with figurative,” says Sarah who is currently working on her first solo show, due to be staged in Melbourne soon.

Photography: Artificial Studios

Sarah Tracton’s Hearing it for Silence’ solo exhibition will be staged at St Heliers Street Gallery at the Abbotsford Convent, VIC from July 13- July 22 & August 13 – September 4, 2018.

For more | Our favourite Aussie handmade ceramics

 

 

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Design Interviews Shopping

Mud bead chandeliers as you’ve never seen them before!

klaylife denim blue dome
klaylife dome

Collaborating again with Melbourne interior stylist Jacqui Moore, klaylife’s latest collection features five gorgeous new designs and a vivid new colour – a denim-inspired blue. “We discovered the most amazing denim blue dye that looks heavenly when applied to our hand rolled clay beads. Because the beads are porous, each one picks up a different shade creating a textured look we adore. We played with an ombré effect as well which is perfection,” says klaylife’s Kerri Wallace.

klaylife denim blue dome
The Dome (large) in denim blue is certainly a statement!

Handcrafted by a small South African community of artisans, the process is labour intensive and no two chandeliers are the same. Firstly, each bead is made using raw local South African clay which is hand rolled into beads before being sun dried, kiln fired and dip dyed. Next up, the beads are strung onto an iron frame with each finished product requiring thousands of beads. “It very much depends on the size and style of the piece but some of the larger designs can incorporate thousands of small hand-rolled beads. Each bead is hand rolled by a beautiful community of women in Africa and are unique in size, shape and colour. It’s lovely to think of the laughter, secrets and stories that each bead holds,” says Kerri.

klaylife bauble and sconce
The Wall Sconce and The Bauble (medium) in white

Jacqui came on board to design the The Lace, a finer, more delicate design and The Kite, which has a more geometric feel. “For The Lace, we wanted a design that had a lacier, finer feeling to it. Going from concept phase to creating it was a fun challenge. It required a whole new way of beading to create the triangle effect. It took a few goes but we got there and we love it!” says Kerri.

The Lace in black
The Lace (large) in black

Romantic Swag is another new design that was created for clients that don’t have the ceiling height to accommodate a pendant light fitting. “The initial plan was to create a chandelier that could sit flush against the ceiling. Many people don’t have the height for lighting suspended with chain and the last thing we want is people bumping their heads! The draping strands of beads set off against the belt of smaller beads create a romantic, dreamy effect,” says Kerri.

klaylife Romantic Swag
Romantic Swag (large) in white

As for her favourite new design, Kerri is in love with the large dome in denim blue. “So much work goes into them all but I couldn’t go past the large denim blue dome. Once it’s in front of you, the sheer number of beads and the fact that each one is a different shade of blue, takes your breath away every time.”

klaylife The Kite
The Dome (medium) in white and The Kite (medium) in denim ombre

Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Bree Leech

Shop online | Pendant light hanging tips

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Design Homewares Interviews Styling

The statement lamp: Why invest & our top five picks!

Tom Dixon Bell table lamp in copper
Tom Dixon Bell table lamp in copper, $

While we love a bargain, we’re also firm believers in splashing out on statement pieces too, should your budget allow. And while it’s not the first item that springs to mind when you think of a hero piece, the statement lamp holds an important place in modern interior design. But when a single lamp can cost up to five figures, is it worth the investment?

Tom Dixon Bell table lamp in copper
Tom Dixon Bell table lamp in copper, $1080

“I believe a statement lamp is definitely worth the investment. It adds extra character to a setting and is another element to assist in carrying through colours and finishes – brass accents for example. A cheap piece will only bring the rest of the setting down instead of adding life to a space,” says Andrew Algar, owner of Contents International Design.

Kelly Wearstler Linden table lamp, $2085

Chosen well (a neutral tone is usually a smart purchase), a good quality high-end lamp will give back many times over the years. “It is also a piece that, if invested in, can be utilised in other rooms down the line if you change your décor or move to a new house,” says Andrew.

Lee Broom clear crystal bulb table lamp
Lee Broom clear crystal bulb table lamp, $585

And while there is amazing variety these days, as with any hero piece, you must make sure it doesn’t compete with the rest of the room. “If you were to keep the sofa, chairs, and table quite simple, a feature lamp will be the standout and lift the entire setting as well as providing much needed mood lighting too,” says Andrew.

Atollo lamp
Designed in 1977, Vico Magistrett’s Atollo lamp is a cult classic. From $1724

Like dark paint colour and bold prints, Andrew encourages you to dive right in when it comes to making the purchase. “Look for elements in a lamp that will accent something already in your room to help it carry through, and don’t be afraid to go over scale. If you’re investing in a feature piece you want it to be noticed!”

Aerin Lauder Clarkson floor lamp, $1700
Aerin Lauder Clarkson floor lamp, $1700

Affordable statement furniture