Ever-prized for their ability to make a room feel larger and more light-filled, mirrors have long been prized by interior designers. From the hallway to the living room, the current crop of mirrors (with their abstract shapes and woven details), are perfect for elevating any interior space.
Middle of Nowhere Pebble mirror: From the brand beloved for its minimal arched mirrors, we love this new organic option. It’s available in a black or brass finish. From $287.
Merci Maison Alexia mirror: Available in black and white, this unusual hand-forged iron mirror is surrounded by iron baubles for a touch of stylish whimsy. We love! $820.
Middle of Nowhere Kaari Mirror: Available in nine colourways (including coloured glass iterations), this rainbow shaped mirror would look fabulous in a child’s room. $259.
James Said Nikki vintage brass mirror: Inspired by the sunburst motifs that adorn the Palace of Versailles, this style of mirror is always in vogue. $1,170.
One of Australia’s leading designers, when Greg Natale looks into his crystal ball makes interior trend predictions we sit up and take notice. Read on for his take on what…
Originally from Italy’s Amalfi coast, Sydney based Teresa Vigroux spent many years in France before moving to Sydney six years ago with her French husband. After working in France as an interior stylist, she completed a Diploma in Interior Design at ISCD, and has worked in interior and property styling as well as visual merchandising ever since. She has also just released a range of unique cloud-inspired mirrors under the Instagram handle ‘A Frenchman’s Wife.’
Teresa’s mirrors are inspired by clouds
While also leading a busy life as a mother to two boys, Teresa started to dream of starting her own business and was keen to do something creative. “One day I decided I wanted to make mirrors and I thought it would be interesting to do some kind of sculpture on the mirrors too.” She explored many materials before settling on using a filling foam that is typically used to insulate wall cavities.
“I came across the foam and tried to use it to make sculptures and mirrors and even furniture. As soon as I started working with it, I realised that it looked amazing,” says Teresa of her new range of mirrors that are part of her aptly titled ‘Cloud Collection.’
An unusual aesthetic, the mirrors were inspired by a childhood penchant for cloud-watching – Teresa used to lay on the terrazzo in the south of Italy and watch the marshmallow-like expanses travel by. “I will never forget the fun we had looking for animal and shoe shapes in the clouds. This collection is also a memory of my childhood.”
A fast-curing, expanding material, Teresa works quickly to create each mirror before painting over the foam with water-based paint and a paint protector. And while the business is in its early days, she has sold around 30 mirrors in the last six weeks, mostly via Instagram and word of mouth.
“I have had a lot great feedback from people in design and fashion. I’ve had models, influencers and ordinary people contact me and I have customers all over Australia, and in the USA as well.”
Vintage coastal décor: shipped worldwide from Noosa
After a decade working on super yachts, sailing the Mediterranean and Caribbean, Sally Oulton returned to Australia, became a mother and found herself living in the hills behind Noosa. “I…
When it comes to self-expression, interior design has become every bit as important as the outfit you’re wearing right now (hopefully you’re not reading this while wearing an ancient pair of trackie dacks). Like fashion, design trends change with the seasons, but here are 10 movements in interior design that will be making waves for the next 12 months.
1. Two-tone kitchens
Image source: Gisbert Poeppler
Stark and bold, the two-tone kitchen purposely limits colour range to create diversity in other ways, most notably finishes. From afar, the simple palette is deceptive because on closer scrutiny, brave combinations of textures reveal the complexity of the design. Rustic finishes on cabinets may not marry well with marble benches in your imagination, but in reality can work beautifully, creating a dramatic textural statement brought to life by the two-tone approach.
2. Wall tiles outside the kitchen and bathroom
Image source: Bonnie and Neil
Wall tiles are on the move, no longer trapped in their traditional domains. They’re migrating from kitchens and bathrooms to become features in common areas, and the effect is stunning. Now that they’re making their mark as ornamental bling in living areas, the humble tile is now enjoying a rapid evolution as designers compete to think outside the box and produce work that is aesthetically and practically superior. Tile designers are pushing the boundaries of shape, colour and functionality.
3. Mirrors as decor
Image source: The Hoxton
They’ve always been a handy way to trick the eye into believing a room has greater dimensions (or simply to make sure we’re gorgeous), but mirrors are now being used much more creatively. With an increasingly diverse range of shapes and colours, you can throw out your old notions of where a mirror belongs, and start considering them as a feature that will add vibrance to any room. As with the more unorthodox use of tiles, consider using mirrors as decorative elements rather than functional items.
4. Wallpaper becoming more a part of the room
Image source: Clarke & Clarke
Finally shedding the yolk of tradition, wallpaper is making a comeback by becoming a more active element in a room’s styling. Rather than a backdrop, it becomes a partner for furniture by matching wallpaper pattern with fabrics. This brave combination generates a striking effect on the eye that is currently inspiring a wallpaper renaissance.
5. High-gloss cabinetry
Image source: Kate Coughlin Interiors
Always preferred for its durability, high-gloss is now producing startling results in modern designs. Rich and vibrant, high-gloss is a finish that continues to surprise, using its relationship with light and reflections to offer a range of bold and unpredictable effects.
6. Pendant lights
Image source: Edward Linacre
Initially used to produce clean lines and hidden sources of light, pendants have evolved and are refusing to be concealed. With rising popularity, they’re being used more creatively and can now be seen creeping into design plans as decorative elements. No longer limited to select spaces, we’re seeing pendant lights as a general preference, even in powder rooms. With the right planning, it’s easy to use these lights more artistically by creating interesting sequences and patterns.
7. Moody colours
Image source: Debi Treloar
Expect deep and moody colours contrasted with two-tone walls. This is the trend of the year and although it may seem brave, this stark juxtaposition seldom fails when designed well. The same combination can also create a lighter, upbeat atmosphere but there’s no doubt that the use of deeper colours creates a sense of comfort. For added impact within the darker tones, a feature mirror can add spark.
8. Sustainability
Image source: Elle Decoration UK
The customer is always right and more clients are insisting on materials that satisfy their ecological standards. Although designers don’t usually embrace limitations, we certainly welcome sustainability. The preference for organic, recyclable and upcycling materials is now a mainstream trend. Aesthetics and textures are no longer enough. Rather than a hurdle for designers, embracing this trend can lead to the use of materials with greater character.
-Kerena Berry is an interior designer and co-founder ofDesignbx, Australia’s online interior design solution.
Mirrors can completely transform a room — from brightening up dark corners and creating the illusion of space to adding style and drama to a once boring interior. Below we’ve rounded up nine mirrors for every taste and budget.
Arguably the most replicated mirror on the market, the original Adnet Mirror by Gubi is the epitome of luxury. Designed in the ’50s, the distinctive, round leather mirror with equestrian-inspired detailing, comes in three sizes and three strap colours (black, olive or brown). Available from Cult, prices start from $1,020.
Coming in a range of colours and shapes (rectangle, round and geo) the minimalist and modern Flynn Mirror embodies simplicity at its best. Made from wood and featuring a soft painted matte finish it is available from Curious Grace for $385.
A mirrored work of art, West Elm’s deco-inspired Faceted Mirror ($349) features 10 facets to help reflect more light, making it perfect for creating the illusion of space in smaller rooms, corners and hallways.
Add a modern, chic touch with Country Road’s large rectangular Jani Mirror ($149). Made from solid Ash with a fine bevel front, it’s a practical and stylish way to update any space.
Reminiscent of Moroccan archways, the Moroccan Arch Bone Inlay Mirror has a stunning frame made from ethically sourced, natural camel-bone inlay pieces. Designed by artisans in the magical region of Rajasthan, India, each piece has been handcrafted in a process that can take weeks. On sale for $649 it is available from Zohi Interiors.
Create a character-filled interior with the too cute Delicious Pear Mirror. With a gold-rimmed edge it makes a lovely finishing touch to kids and adults room alike. Also available in apple shape, it retails for $159.99 from Freedom.
The Eagan Multi-Panel Mirror ($218.40) from Pottery Barn features nine mirrors that are each bevelled. Made from an iron metal frame with a bronze finish and enhanced with metal rosettes, it can be mounted vertically or horizontally, for two looks.
The Press Mirror designed by Tim Webber is made from copper with an inset mirror and a pressed detail at four points around the circle. It is available in five colours and has a keyhole on the back for hanging flush to the wall. Available from Hunting For George for $488.
We hope you liked this list. Let us know what you’d add.
Whether you have an abundance of space or an area that requires you to be smart with your storage options, there’s always ways to improve the efficiency and functionality of your walk-in-wardrobe. Here’s some tips from Block buyer’s advocate Frank Valentic to assist you if you’re thinking of renovating and adding a walk in wardrobe to your home, or even just altering your existing space.
Ayden & Jess’ walk-in wardrobe
Shelving: For anything that’s accessed regularly, shelving is the perfect idea as it’s quick and easy to grab in a hurry. Shelving also allows you to customise the space to suit what you are storing. It’s a great idea to try to ensure your shelving size caters to the item you’re storing so as to not waste any space. Always ensure there is a good variety in size to cover everything from shoes, hats, handbags and folded up items to long dresses, coats and pants. Interchangeable shelving space for this reason is perfect for this type of storage as it allows you to adjust space for the seasons and means it’s not too personally customised and will appeal to buyers if you are planning to sell the property in the future.
Light: This is a room where good lighting is essential, natural light is a great accessory in deciding what to wear but make sure you have good quality blinds that can be closed when the room’s not in use to ensure your clothes don’t fade. A window that can be opened is also ideal for allowing fresh air and circulation in what’s often a small/tight space.
Josh & Charlotte’s walk-in wardrobe
Drawers and Dividers: Drawers are essential to put away everyday items like underwear and socks. Segmenting drawers will make your space just that much more efficient and is a great idea for items that can easily become a bit of a mess such as jewellery. Again, adjustable dividers are a great idea to give you the ability to change the size and shape of the space.
Hooks: Don’t waste space on walls and doors, add hooks as they are a great way to get accessories such as jewellery, scarfs and ties out of the way.
Mirrors: A mirror or two is not only essential for this particular space, but they will also make the room appear larger and more spacious.
Tim & Anastasia’s walk-in wardrobe
Neutral colours: Sticking to a neutral palette in this space is best to ensure clothes and accessories are clearly visible and it will make it more efficient in selecting items to wear. Lighter colours if you have a small space will also make the area feel larger.
Practical positioning: Give the room a flow effect and order items in the way you would make your selections on a daily basis, for example, position accessories closer to the exit so you can quickly and easily grab them on your way out.
Make sure to keep in mind that while having a large area for a walk in wardrobe is almost every women’s dream, it should not come at the cost of space in your master bedroom or ensuite. Getting your proportions right is vital for a functional home design and could be a costly decision if not balanced well when it comes time to sell your property.
A well-designed and accessorised bathroom is key to creating a space full of character. With the bathroom continuing to form part of the wider living zone where bathrooms, bedrooms and dressing rooms become one continuous space, we are noticing a trend toward accessorising in the bathroom as an effective tool for performing a mini facelift and adding life into a once purely functional area of the home.
Kartell by Laufen 750 Transparent Crystal Rack
Kartell by Laufen Tangerine Orange Stool
As spaces in the home become more integrated, so too does the functional and decorative role of furniture, accessories and decorative lighting. Traditional complementary furniture such as mirrors, tall boys and floating cabinetry continue to be important in personalising and creating style in the bathroom space, but we’re also seeing more furniture like stools, chairs and shelves appearing. Creating bathroom products that are both functional and decorative has been a focus for designers, as seen in the stunning Kartell by Laufen collection designed by Ludovica+Roberto Palomba. This is a great example of this integrated approach, with the polycarbonate mirrors, racks, cabinets and stools as appropriate in the bathroom as they would be elsewhere in the home.
Milli Edge Freestanding Toilet Column
Also providing innovative space-saving solutions are multi-purpose accessories, like the Milli Edge freestanding toilet column which elegantly stores a toilet roll and brush holder. Similarly, the Laufen Pro A wash basin with stand not only looks striking but is a clever way to store towels.
[contextly_sidebar id=”efpEWHGTw2yBt3zMTGyQmpFBbfL50DNK”]In our recent survey, we were surprised to see mirrors emerging as the fourth most important item in the bathroom. This is a strong indication that customers are using decorative accessories to evolve and add character to their bathroom look. Many ranges are also designed to complement each other, creating families of products to ensure customers are offered a coordinated look, rather than having to search for individual accessories to create a unified style, For example, the Milli and Mizu ranges not only include beautifully designed tapware, they also include a range of matching accessories like soap dishes, toothbrush holders, towel rails, toilet brush holders and soap dispensers.
Milli Glance Soap Dish
Milli Glance Basin Mixer Matte Black
For an even simpler update, adding small touches can be an effective way to enhance the look and feel of a bathroom. Good quality towels are a worthwhile investment and lend an air of luxury, while scented candles and flowers will make a space feel inviting and reinvigorated. Add a luxurious handwash to the mix to tie the space together and give it a finished look.
Naming a collection WALLPORN was always going to get my attention, but then to find out style guru Megan Morton and Space Furniture were behind it, well I immediately needed to know everything!
Launching mid-November, just in time for Christmas, WALLPORN is a range of four items for your walls and beautiful tableau, all designed and made in Australia. Created out of Megan’s love of giving presents that are long-lasting investments rather than stocking fillers, she worked with four talented designers to create the incredible designs you won’t see anywhere else.
The first are the Quartz Objects by artist Phillippa Carnemolla. Having sourced healing quartz pieces from Brazil and then added copper interventions, the objects are ideal as table centers, bookends or paperweights. Not one piece the same, they look powerful solo or incredible in a cluster on your table.
The second are the Horstmans Trees by sculptor Dion Horstmans. Known for his energetic work and love of sharp geometry, his limited edition tree interpretation is perfectly represented in these four sculptural pieces that are ideal for the mantel. Beautiful enough to stay up all year, they are the best way to acquire a smaller piece from this talented artist, whose work has now gone far beyond private collections.
The third is the Tinted Mirror by multi-disciplinary designer Dan Hockings. In either blue or brown, the tinted hanging mirror sees hand detailing, metal, mirror and leather collide for the ultimate piece to deck your halls. We think it’s the ideal addition to your mantel, representing a Christmas bauble in its shape!
Last but not least, the Stamped Platter by ceramicist Joss Best. Designed to be the ideal platter that every household can use, it is the ideal gift thanks to its hand stamped ‘2014’. Informal in style, the platter will be loved by all those who enjoy entertaining.
All items will be available exclusively through Space Furniture showrooms. For more information.
