Kmart is kicking the year off with a bang with its February home range. It features some of its best buys yet which is really saying something. Designed and developed by Kmart’s in-house design and buying team in Melbourne, the collection features a plethora of functional furnishings, on-trend textures and colourful home accent pieces including bedding, occasional chairs, rugs, decorative vases and more.
Kmart’s February home range features these lovely wares
“Our customers are constantly looking for new and affordable ways to refresh and update the spaces within their home and we are proud to be able to bring the latest home and décor trends from across the globe to Australia. This season, it’s about creating gentle, restful nooks within the home, whilst still injecting personality via pops of colour, unique textures and nostalgic shapes and angles,” says Kmart’s divisional merchandise manager Meryn Serong.
Kmart’s lovely new pot collection
There are excellent bedding options too
The range has been created around three key aesthetics (Timeless, Natural and Urban) and the prices start from just $5. The Timeless and Natural aesthetics are all about creating calm, cosy spaces and key pieces within those ranges feature ceramics in sculptural waves and curves as well as rattan, blonde timbers and fabrics like boucle and shearling. The Urban collection features black touches as well as bold coloured glassware.
We love this coloured glassware
Highlights from the range include the said coloured glassware which comes in $14 sets and provide endless tablescaping opportunities. There are fun new sculptural candles too and the new pot and vase line-up features some stellar designs.
The new towel line-up is pretty gorgeous
The candle range starts from $5
The brand’s popular DIY offering has been expanded also, reflecting the increasing popularity of upcycling and DIY renovating. Fix-up finds include a new range of statement handles perfect for transforming and elevating existing furniture pieces, as well as an array of versatile wall tiles.
There are plenty of great new lighting options too
Originally from Malaysia, Chris Yap moved to Australia to study in 2012 and with that came a plethora of side hustles. While studying computer science at RMIT, Chris had many jobs on the side including web developing, making sushi(!) and hosting an Airbnb but it was the eBay store that he started with his brother Jake that had the most traction. The duo began by selling electronics (mostly wireless chargers and the like), but decided to diversify into the furniture business after being motivated by their father.
“My father is a furniture manufacturer, and after going too furniture expos with him I found the whole thing very inspiring,” says Chris Yap who moved on from electronics and launched the furniture business Eliving with his brother in 2017. Specialising in flat pack furniture, the business underwent a rebrand recently (it’s now called Lifely) and the brothers decided recently to pursue a much more trend-driven audience.
Sorrento display cabinet, $559
“Lifely is a lot more trend focussed whereas Eliving was about being the cheapest in the market. And with Lifely, because we don’t believe in mark-ups or middlemen, you get modern, high-quality pieces that don’t require a second mortgage to afford,” says Chris who explains that the brand’s core audience is Millennials who are no doubt drawn to the brand’s affordable, yet fun pieces.
Bradley modular sofa, from $987.05Button tv unit, $409
Pivotal to the rebrand has been understanding the importance of branding and digital marketing – it’s been a steep learning curve for the brothers. “When we first launched, we had no idea what we were doing but we’ve learnt about branding, digital marketing and building a database and since that it’s been going really well,” says Chris.
Arch bedhead, from $299
It’s going very well indeed with the business experiencing the ‘COVID effect’ where its revenue grew by 300 per cent during the pandemic; a trajectory that has continued. “For the first three years our revenue increased greatly, and it is continuing in that direction,” says Chris who sells the products through the Lifely website directly as well as through several other online marketplaces including eBay, Catch, Mydeal and Temple & Webster.
Sorrento mirror, $399
And in great news for consumers, Lifely has a large stock holding in Victoria’s Laverton which means that customers don’t have to battle with long lead times. It also means that Victorian customers get to enjoy same day delivery (if ordered before midday) and shipping times to Australia’s other capital cities are relatively short too. In another bonus for the consumer, shipping is free to most Australian metro areas.
Phoebe armchair, $494.95
Lifely also donates one per cent of profits towards Habitats for Humanity Australia to support building better lives in vulnerable communities across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. The brand has also partnered with Vinnies to donate furniture to people affected by the bushfires and floods last summer.
“Giving back is important too. But when you consider that we started with one humble first container and one sales platform, we’re really proud of our growth.”
The Lifely Deep Dream mattress, from $356, was awarded the best mattress under $500 by Bed Buyer.
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New Australian-made environmentally friendly furniture brand
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With the tablescape trend still going strong, and summer entertaining on the horizon, the latest Ecology collection couldn’t have come sooner. Titled Superbloom, it’s brimming with bright, optimistic colours and abstract desert-inspired florals. Statement serving ware, mouth-blown glass and hand drawn details are complemented by line extensions of the brand’s popular Speckle and Nomad ranges.
Aster cuddle cups
“We are turning up the colour this season and embracing the power of the sun and the life it gives. As homemakers, we are creating light filled spaces that support us to flourish. We have opened our doors and moved outside to embrace the world around us, sharing these experiences with family and friends over a meal or just taking the time we need to connect back to nature” said Jessica Steinki, design and product manager at Ecology.
The Belle line-up incorporates bold, sculptural pieces with scalloped, petal-like edges and stem-like legs. We love the gelato-inspired citrus hues which are ideal for summer entertaining.
Belle footed serving bowl
Belle oval serving platter
Mouth-blown statement glassware, Adrift features a delicate petal shape detail in icy blue. Available in tumbler and goblet designs, these unique glass sets come in sets of four and the matching jug is our pick of the series.
The Adrift glassware range
A standout of the Superbloom collection, the Samara glassware collection is made from mouth blown glass that features colour pellets within the glass. We love its retro feel.
Samara tumbler
Arizona draws on desert inspiration with its warm tones and recurring arch motifs. Designer Heather Piez incorporated the arches to represent the rising and setting sun. The classic rim shape and debossed decal gives it a slightly organic profile and tactile feel.
The Arizona range
Part of an existing range, the Nomad series has been updated and is now available in latte and espresso cups. Having sold out last year, the gold-handled Speckle mugs are back too, available in standard or espresso sizes. We think they’d make a fabulous Christmas gift.
From vases to tumblers and sculptural objets, there’s something fabulously retro about coloured glass. And while it’s a trend that’s been brewing for a while now the latest array of coloured glass is some of the best we’ve seen.
Maison Balzac Dotdot platter: Available in clear and teal iterations, this handblown glass bowl features multi coloured glass balls around the edge. So fun!
Kip & Co Champagne & Vino glasses: The debut glassware collection from Kip & Co features handmade, mouth blown pieces in three fabulous colour combinations. There’s tumblers, wine glasses, coupes, candlestick holders and these chic champagne and wine glasses. $59 (set of two)
The Cool Hunter mini glass sculpture: A globe resting on a solid glass cube, this objet is perfect for styling a shelfie. It’s available in four colour ways. $149.
Fazeek Home Vice Versa carafe: Available in a variety of colour ways including pink and amber (pictured), this carafe is part sculpture, part functional object. The sphere rests inside the glass-blown mouth or sits playfully inside the base. $149.
West Elm glass knot: Made from hollow glass, these gauged glass knots look fabulous atop a stack of books on a book case or coffee table. From $49.
Stella’s Unique glass mugs: Available on Etsy, these two-tone glass mugs feature squiggle handles and come in a variety of super fun shades. $45.41.
More than a place to rest your glass or book, side tables have become statements of their own of late. Whether sculptural in shape or crafted from an interesting materials (limestone, I’m looking at you!), the latest line-up of side tables is an arresting one indeed.
West Elm Terrace side table: With a nod to mid-century design, this side table features tiered glass shelves floating above a mirrored glass base. It works equally well beside a sofa as it does next to a bed. $449.
Life Interiors Cosmos side table: Combining a panelled timber base with a terrazzo top, this chic design is available with a plain oak or black base. $445.
En Gold Tierra Petite side table: Constructed from smokey agate limestone tiles applied to a hollow timber base structure, this piece’s chunky texture and step level design make it highly covetable. $590.
Elsian Zara rattan side table: This leaf-like design is crafted from panelled rattan and would make a unique statement in a coastal-inspired interior. $500.
Launched in 2015 by Adelaide husband and wife team Daniel Wright and Kylie Porter-Wright, the online furniture and homewares store Black Mango has some great pieces including a solid line-up of upholstered and rattan items at affordable prices. “We are not about offering thousands of pieces. We are about offering selected, timeless pieces to enhance the home and bring you a little smile when you walk past them in the room,” says Kylie Porter-Wright.
Lennox rattan room divider: A great way to divide up a room, or conceal something you’d rather keep out of view, this room divider is made from three natural rattan panels. It’s available with a black or white painted trim. $599.
The Cloud three seat sofa with sage corduroy slip cover: We love a removable sofa cover around here and this sumptuous, deep seated number ticks that box. The cover is dry cleanable, the back and seat cushions are filled with feathers and the sofa is available in five linen/cotton colours and two corduroy fabrics. $2499.
Ashlee blanket box in taupe: Inspired by the French Provincial aesthetic, this box is ideal for storing blankets at the foot of the bed and doubles as a great place to put your shoes on. It’s available in five fabulous linen colours including this taupe shade. $499.
Lennox rattan sideboard: Perfect for a coastal or Colonial inspired interior, this handmade 100 per cent rattan piece is perfect for a living room or hallway. $799.
Juno bedhead with slipcover queen size in dusty pink: This simple and versatile bedhead comes with a removable slip cover so you can change up your bedroom look on a whim. Additional slip covers are available for $189 and come in a variety of shades including teal, navy, grey and black. $499.
When Vanessa Opazo left her native Spain seven years ago to pursue an architectural role in Sydney and improve her English, it was a trip that was only supposed to last a year. Fast forward seven years and not only is Vanessa no longer working as an architect, but she has started a successful calligraphy and crystal business called Bondi Letters.
Vanessa in her architect days
“I worked in commercial building design, mainly facades, but I used to teach a lot back in Spain and I found I really missed that connection with people,” says Vanessa Opazo who resides in Sydney’s Bondi. And while she loved architecture in the beginning, eventually she found it more technical than creative and began to look around for another artistic avenue.
Vanessa Opazo
After finding an online calligraphy and brush lettering course, Vanessa fell in love with the art. “After a tough day at work in architecture calligraphy was my ‘me’ time. I found it to be really therapeutic and I got very good at it quickly,” says Vanessa who decided to combine the skill with her love of teaching by running calligraphy and brush lettering workshops in Sydney.
“It started as a hobby to pay for my materials. I was donating the money at the beginning. I was working full-time so didn’t need the money at all really. But the courses got very popular, and I started needing more and more time,” says Vanessa who slowly cut her architecture days back before leaving the job entirely.
Vanessa teaching a calligraphy workshop
But when COVID hit, Vanessa had to diversify the business and she began running online courses too which resulted in many more students tuning in from interstate and overseas. Students receive a kit before the class that includes a calligraphy pen, nibs, ink and work book and while Vanessa started with calligraphy and brush lettering classes, she has since added a class called ‘Watercolour Meditations’ that is proving very popular. That course includes meditation, education on colour theory and practical advice on mixing colours as well as a painting component and breath work too.
Vanessa’s online courses have been embraced by corporate Australia too where she has run them for Google and Atlassian to name a few. “I have a really big workshop coming up in WA soon where I’ve doing the Watercolour Meditations course with 80 miners!” says Vanessa who has found the online platform Classbento to be a great way to spread the word about her offering. “Classbento helps creatives that want to teach and run workshops connect with people,” says Vanessa.
Brush lettering
Another facet of the business, Vanessa’s foray into crystals came about after she included them as part of one of her workshops. “I wanted to gift my students something meaningful that they could take home as a reminder of the time spent together. I then started receiving a lot of messages about the crystals specifically and had over 100 requests in the end,” says Vanessa.
Bondi Letters crystals
The crystals are now sold through Vanessa’s online store alongside a series of art prints and gift cards, created with another Bondi business – Wildfire Co. Design. “There are so many zodiac prints on the market but mine combine that with my crystal obsession,” says Vanessa of the prints that feature zodiac signs alongside each respective birth stone.
Bondi Letters Taurus zodiac print with crystals
As for the current collective obsession with crystals, Vanessa feels it’s part of a wider push to embrace our spiritual sides. “I’m really drawn to crystals, not just because they’re really beautiful but because I feel an energy connection with them.”
While it’s hard to think about any other weather event than the tragic floods that have hit the country of late, autumn has arrived and with it a new array of bed linen. From trans-seasonal coverlets to pretty autumnal florals, the season sees an emergence of a strong colour palette with navy, eucalyptus green and cinnamon appearing across brands.
L&M Home’s autumn line-up is a cosy affair with lots of plain bedding options in rich tones including classic navy and cinnamon. The brand’s plain Nordic linen range is woven in Portugal and crafted using fine, 100% cotton yarns making for an ultra-soft feel with a hint of crispness. We love the brand’s gorgeous Soho quilt in the new nougat tone – it looks particularly fresh when paired with navy sheets.
L&M Home’s Soho quilt in nougat, pictured with the brand’s Nordic bed linen in navy.
As is typical for the brand, the, Kip & Co. autumn drop is rather large with lots of gems to be found. We’re particularly fond of the ‘Blooms’ printed linen range that features an orange, white-washed green and pink floral print on an olive base with plain olive reverse. This design looks fabulous paired with the brand’s iconic velvet quilt cover in the new khaki colour way. From $209.
‘Bloom’ sheets and pillow cases paired with a khaki velvet quilt cover
Aura’s much-loved Maison Vintage coverlet has had an autumnal makeover and is now available in a gorgeous warm tone the the brand has called hazelnut. Perfect for the in-between seasons, the coverlet is made from French flax grown sustainably in the coastal regions of France and blended with sustainably sourced, super soft cotton. The brand’s Maison Vintage quilt cover in Syrah is a sophisticated choice too. From $259.
Linen House has embraced green in a major way this autumn from khaki to forest green and other shades too. The large-scale ‘Wren Forest’ quilt cover set and the ‘Heath Eucalyptus’ quilt cover set are particularly lovely. From $169.99.
This versatile quilt cover wouldn’t look out of place in a teenage boy’s room
Navy is big on the bedding front at Adairs also – perhaps the classic shade is the new charcoal? The pretty ‘Wild Garden’ pale green quilt cover set is one for the floral lovers. From $159.99.
Home Republic Stonewashed cotton navy quilt cover
‘Wild Garden’ pale green quilt cover set
Mix and match bedding tips from Kip & Co
It’s the time of year where we’re all adding extra layers to our beds for warmth but the more we add, the harder it can be to achieve a cohesive…
Launched in 2006 (with an eBay store no less!), Life Interiors has since grown to encompass a large online store and two bricks and mortar showrooms: one in Sydney and one in Melbourne. From furniture to rugs, bedding, artwork and more, the brand has a large in-house line but also stocks excellent Australian labels such as Bonnie & Neil, Middle of Nowhere, Sarah Ellison and Armadillo.
Norah Rattan Queen Bed (Black, Natural): I can personally attest to the quality of this bed as I have it in the king size. Combining rattan with black lacquered oak, there’s an understated sophistication about the design that I love. $2,495.
Middle of Nowhere Linear Portrait 2 Framed Canvas: This line drawing comes printed on canvas and framed in a contemporary, thin timber veneer frame. It’s great for minimalists and is perfect for a gallery wall. $178.
Kade table lamp: Similar (but different enough) to much more expensive lamps in the same vein, this orb-like lamp is more sculpture than light source. It’s available in black or brass. $176.
Monet boucle ottoman: A functional, statement piece, this ottoman comes in a variety of colours but we like this on-trend boucle iteration. $395.
Dawn Low Cabinet: Available in black and white, this lightweight powder coated cabinet is a great spot to store shoes and bags at the front door. The perforated metal and brass handles add a fabulous contemporary feel to the piece. $899.
Lucas side table: Designed with statement-making terrazzo, we love the organic curves of this versatile piece. $349.95.
Adele armchair: Available in rust (pictured), green, grey and dusty rose, this retro inspired chair has serious Art Deco leanings. The curved column base and backrest are finished in velvet upholstery. $895.
La Forma Nadin Alfresco 2 Seater Sofa: Part of Life Interiors’ outdoor range, this gorgeous sofa is available in terracotta and green. It combines a steel frame with hand woven rope for an organic aesthetic. $1,399.
Evergreen Collective Birch pot (wide): For use indoors and outside, this gorgeous stoneware planter features a matte speckle glaze and contrasting short legs for extra detail. $45.
10 things we’re loving from the Target homewares range
The latest instalment in our ’10 things we’re loving’ series, this week we’re shining the spotlight on Target. Once the poor cousin to Kmart in terms of affordable homewares buys,…
This week’s instalment of ’10 things we’re loving’ involves a virtual trip down the homewares aisles at Big W. In line with other mass retailers, Big W has worked wonders with its homewares range of late – its offering just keeps getting better.
Mirabella Ayla Ribbed Table Lamp – Gold: Featuring a retro, ribbed glass design and a round, metallic base, this piece is giving us strong vintage vibes. $35.
K-D Alphabet Rug – Cream: Perfect for a child’s room, this bold rug will also help your little one practice the alphabet. $29
Florence Broadhurst Octagonal Lattice Cushion: Featuring a signature Florence Broadhurst print on one side, and a contrasting reverse, this is ideal for giving your outdoor area a glow up. It’s available in blue or orange. $29.
House & Home Garment Rack – Multi: Featuring two storage shelves plus hanging space, this a-frame design is perfect for bedrooms or as shoe and coat storage at the front door. $45.
Avalon Rattan Oval Mirror: The perfect addition to coastal interiors, this rattan mirror would look fabulous in a powder room or above a low set of drawers in a bedroom. $99.
House & Home Small Bubble Vase – Brown: Featuring a retro silhouette in a smokey hue, this glass vase is giving us strong 70’s vibes. It looks fabulous with or without blooms. $14.
This may surprise you, but BIG W is our pick of new homewares and here’s why
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Oski + Lottie is a new Australian homewares and furniture store created by Caroline Rose after she struggled to find classic, beautiful, and locally made soft furnishings for her family home. Seeking an alternative to trend-focussed, mass-produced wares, the Oski + Lottle range is timeless (without being boring!) but also attainable too. A ‘slow living’ philosophy underpins the stylish brand that takes inspiration from contemporary Scandinavian design and iconic mid-century modern forms.
The collection is organised into four categories – Home, Furniture, Rituals and Textiles and there is literally something for every room of the home. There’s kitchen items as well as lighting, mirrors, indoor and outdoor furniture, shelving, candles, scents, incense, and oils as well as textiles including blankets, throws, cushions, pillows, table and kitchen linen. The site stocks iconic Scandinavian brands such as Menu and Frama making it a one-stop stylish shop for the home.
And the range isn’t just beautiful to look at – it’s a thoughtful, considered collection too. The Oski + Lottie textile collection is designed and made in Melbourne with fabrics that have a sustainable focus. The brand uses ethically, and sustainably sourced Belgian and French linen printed using non-toxic, solvent-free, water-based pigment inks that have less of an environmental impact than traditional alternatives. The brand is also committed to minimising fabric wastage where possible (ensuring it is repurposed or recycled) and uses sustainable packaging.
The brand’s textiles are designed and made in Melbourne
Oski + Lottie sells a variety of beautiful furniture items sourced from around the globe, partnering with small makers and artisans that underpin its philosophy. It only chooses ethical and sustainable products that have been carefully selected for their quality, timeless aesthetic, and natural materials.
The store stocks cult items like this Menu lamp
Overall, we love the brand’s philosophy of layering fewer, better pieces in your home to create a cohesive, thoughtful and stylish abode.
Checkerboard homewares: The latest hot trend – The Interiors Addict
The bold cousin to gingham, checkerboard print is different in that it usually consists of two different colours positioned in alternating positions. Drawing inspiration from a chess or checkerboard, the…
The latest instalment in our ’10 things we’re loving’ series, this week we’re shining the spotlight on Target. Once the poor cousin to Kmart in terms of affordable homewares buys, Target has really upped its game and now offers a plethora of quality homewares at a great price.
Flora coir printed doormat: Pretty and practical. This durable coir doormat is the perfect way to welcome visitors to your home. $12.
Wicker mirror flower: Made from rattan, this cute-as-a-button mirror is ideal for a child’s room. It would look great as part of a gallery wall. $35.
Caine check quilt cover set: The perfect way to dabble in the gingham trend, this smart set is made from soft cotton. Pair it with a matching set of European pillows to complete the look. From $59.
Ava office armchair: Combining a brushed gold base with a velvet upholstered bucket seat, this chair is perfect for a stylish home office. $139.
Iris framed canvas: It’s the fine timber frame that elevates this simple print that is perfect for adding a pop of colour to sombre walls. $40.
Pom pom terry bath towel in green: 100 per cent cotton with a fun fringed edge, this towel is soft yet absorbent. Available in black or green, it’s a look that would look at home in any wet area. $15.
3 pack kids flower wall decor: This bohemian flower-power inspired trio is a lovely, whimsical look for a child’s bedroom wall. $25.
Zoe storage ottoman – small: This storage ottoman features a grey upholstered body complemented by a removable, ash veneer top. It works super well as a low stool or even as bedside storage. $69.
Layton textured throw: This textured throw features a tufted design with a tassel trim. It would look fabulous on the end of the bed or sofa alike. $49.
Marlo soap dispenser: A stylish refillable soap dispenser at a great price, this beauty makes for a fabulous bathroom refresh. What more can you ask for? $15.
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10 things we’re loving at Fantastic Furniture
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It’s been a while since we’ve done a Valentine’s Day homewares round-up but with the annual celebration imminent (on Monday) we thought it was time to dip into all things heart and love themed for the home.
Jones & Co Romeo and Jules face vases: Inspired by Leonardo Di Caprio and Claire Danes in Baz Luhrmann’s iconic take on the Shakespearean classic, these vases make a very cute couple for the bookshelf, bedside table or balcony. From $52.
Castle ‘Love’ European cushion cover: There’s a reason this cushion sells out swiftly every time it is restocked. From its fabulous colours to its timeless design and sentiment, we love (no pun intended!). $79.
Etsy Ex Voto wooden Mexican milagros heart wall hanging: Straight from Mexico, these heart-shaped beauties are covered in milagros and look fabulous styled on a gallery wall. The word milagro means “miracle” or “surprise” in Spanish and people use them as symbols to wish others good luck, good health, and hope for the future. $30.74.
Bitossi Home heart tray: Bitossi has been making ceramics in Tuscany since 1537 and this gorgeous little heart tray is one of their most recent designs. A tiny vessel for trinkets, keepsakes, jewellery or even sweets, this millennial pink heart-shaped dish is finished with a fern-like red detail at the top and an intricately painted bunch of flowers. $100.
Castle ‘Young Hearts’ art tea towel: Designed to be framed and hung or placed within one of Castle’s magnetic art tea towel hangers (sold separately), this tea towel is hand printed and embroidered on top quality linen in Rachel Castle’s Sydney studio. $89.
Electric Confetti neon ‘Love’ light: This statement light is made with with pastel pink, pastel red, vivid red and vivid pink LED neon mounted on clear acrylic. $749.
Oh It’s Perfect ‘Be Mine’ love vouchers gift set: A cute idea for Valentine’s Day, this set includes five wooden love vouchers redeemable by your partner. The cute tin can be reused around the house. $46.95.
Checkerboard homewares: The latest hot trend – The Interiors Addict
The bold cousin to gingham, checkerboard print is different in that it usually consists of two different colours positioned in alternating positions. Drawing inspiration from a chess or checkerboard, the…
There was a time when cut-price furniture and accessories rarely produced more than a cut-price result but that’s not the case anymore. Fantastic Furniture had a rebrand a few years ago and with that came a shift towards more trends-based pieces that wouldn’t look out of place in more expensive stores. Here are 10 of our current faves.
Niva desk: Perfect for small spaces, this compact desk also doubles as a hallway table. It sports a slim profile, curved edges and a single drawer to tuck away the essentials. $249.
Lombok bookcase: Made from rattan, this bookcase is perfect for coastal or bohemian abodes and is available online only. $369.
Nube armchair: Perfect for those wanting to dip their toes into the boucle trend without breaking the bank, this chair is a versatile piece. We love its on-trend, organic curves. This is another online only piece. $1,099.
House single bed: Available in white and natural, this children’s bed design is a bit of a modern classic. Gender-neutral and with a touch of whimsy, what’s not to love? $399.
Palemo coffee table: Designed with a contemporary pedestal base, this chic black coffee table is made from stainless steel and would suit a variety of spaces. Online only. $429.
Fiesta rug: Made in Turkey, this 230cm x 160cm rug has fun, Aztec vibes that make it perfect for a family, playroom or nursery alike. $169.
Set of two Venn planters: Made from perforated iron, this pair of planters are perfect for elevating your greenery inside. Online only. $129.
Trinity three seater sofa: As part the brand’s Australian made MyChoice range, this sofa is available in over 50 fabrics. You can choose from bold patterns, versatile neutrals, or vibrant colours like this watermelon pink. $599.
Hera door mat: Another online only product, this fun, patterned mat is great for those looking to brighten up their home’s entrance. $55.
Portofino bookcase: This bookcase features a walnut herringbone finish on the shelves combined with a gold, metal frame for a stylish storage solution. Pair it with other pieces from the Portofino range for a seamless look. $369.
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Hailing from Singapore, Junie Lin originally trained as a chemical engineer in Perth, after which she was offered a job at Shell. The only female out of 300 applicants, Junie lasted six months. “It was something that my Asian parents wanted me to do. In Asian culture you need to be a doctor, lawyer, or engineer,” says Junie who left Shell and became a market analyst in the textiles industry before moving into the world of interiors via her online store Hamptons Home.
Junie Lin with pieces from her Mirage Haven range
“When my son was born, I took on a local job as an analyst, but it didn’t work out. So, I decided as a side hustle to set up Hamptons Home which I still run today,” says Junie who has recently added to her output with the launch of a line of cushions and textiles under the Mirage Haven brand.
“After a few years of running Hamptons Home I decided to do a small run of cushions using the information I had learnt about the textile industry in my earlier job travelling around Asia,” says Junie. Mirage Haven, as a brand, is focused on creating luxurious, timeless designs – the opposite of ‘fast’ fashion.
“We don’t want to be a fast fashion item. We want it to be ‘slow’ and used across many seasons and in many different types of homes. Many people think of cushions as a seasonal item, but we don’t and we think the range complements Scandi, Hamptons and even modern homes,” says Junie.
The collection of 60 cushions was launched at the end of May 2020 in the middle of the first COVID-19 lockdown. “So far it’s been doing really well,” says Junie who now sells the brand to homewares stores, interior designers and property stylists throughout Australia and New Zealand. The range has recently expanded to include throws and a premium, quality heirloom Santa bags that are perfect for Christmas.
The Santa sacks are an ideal Christmas gift.
“Coming from the world of chemical engineering to becoming a cushion designer I have learnt so much about manufacturing and textiles. It’s very different but I love it!”
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We’ve been fans of the talented Bendigo based abstract artist Marcia Priestly (of Bibi Ana + Co) for a while now, so we weren’t surprised to hear that she’d made headway in the US. Marcia was recently picked up by the actor (and wife of Ellen de Generes) Portia De Rossi, who is now representing her stateside through her Los Angeles based art curation and publishing company General Public.
‘Untitled II’ is part of Marcia’s collection for General Public
“After submitting a piece of work to GPA, Portia reached out to me personally (could you imagine my excitement!) and told me she instantly connected to my work, so I developed a range, over time, to form a collection of 20 works,” says Marcia of the textured print collection. It’s quite the coup for the Bendigo-based artist who is sold locally through Greenhouse Interiors.
Many of the works were produced in mini-series creating diptych and triptych narratives and they are all printed using a ground-breaking 3D technology that recreates very small details in high fidelity. “It’s truly amazing technology!” says Marcia.
‘Liberty’
Fleur-de-lys
The collection is based around the artist’s signature abstract expressive style and many of them were painted when COVID-19 first emerged. “I was reminded of the illness I had personally suffered a decade prior, but miraculously overcame even though I was never predicted to. It’s an unusual, strong and emotive sequence based on the challenges we have and our strong will for survival,” says Marcia.
Marcia Priestley in her studio
Serene landscapes sit alongside strong, expressive strokes in the works that are being sold online and through the coveted US stores Restoration Hardware. “There are some really strong works there, paired back with simple, serene landscapes. Some of these pieces are important pieces of mine, so I am very pleased they are now being offered in the US. I can’t wait to travel there very soon to see them in person.”
Currently coveting: Bibi Ana + Co’s latest artworks
Artist Marcia Priestley, of Bibi Ana + Co., has released a new collection that, while inspired by animals and plants, combines them in a uniquely abstract way. “I fell in…
We’re always excited for a new Kip & Co. drop and this week saw the launch of the brand’s Spring/Summer ’21 collection titled Golden Hour. Inspired by countryside weekend escapes, nature is certainly at the forefront – there’s bold florals, statement stripes and tactile tartans in a palette of golden hues, fresh blues, berry shades and ivy greens. Woven linens, giant tassels and plush quilting feature too.
“The collection is inspired by sweet weekend escapes where time moves slowly, while a wild and abundant nature comes into focus,” says Kip and Co. co-founder Alex McCabe.
The range includes new cushion and rug designs
The brand’s commitment to nature can be seen in its new sustainability focus also, with all of the cotton bedding in this range made from certified organic cotton. This means harmful chemicals, irritants and pollutants have been removed from the brand’s supply chain and there is reduced water usage in the manufacturing process too. With these new practices, this season alone, Kip & Co. will save over 25 million litres of water!
This beautiful striped linen is available in a gorgeous blush shade too
“For the kids, we’re channelling those perfect days, where you can briefly unplug and reconnect with the simple pleasures of life,” says Alex. There are embroidered florals, jumping frogs, diving penguins and a starlit night design. The collection also sees the return of several kids’ favourites including velvet beanbags, petal cushions, duffle bags and floor rugs.
This season’s tabletop offering is rather gorgeous with two new brass napkin rings available in a tropical palm or fish design, perfect for summer entertaining. “We’re getting festive in the kitchen as we head into the season of entertaining. Our beautiful tableware and cutlery celebrate the joy of nourishing and flourishing our bodies and sharing that with those we love the most!” says Alex.
TablewareThe range includes two new brass napkin holder designs including this palm one
The kids’ apparel range is typically bold but this time includes swimwear too. “Our kids’ apparel is a collection packed with colour to match their energy! Dedicated to all those kids who are shooting stars, we have prints that will spark their imaginations and styles that are ready for their biggest adventures.”
The brand has added cute kids’ swimwear to its offering
Kip & Co.’s new autumn collection is big on texture
While there’s plenty for maximalists in the new Kip & Co. range ‘Magic Happens,’ the collection is brimming with options for those who favour a more subdued aesthetic. The brand’s…
In a major coup for an Australian designer, Brisbane-based interior designer Anna Spiro has just launched a collaboration with the esteemed American homewares and fashion retailer Anthropologie. Anna and her team designed eight new patterns, in her signature style, for the brand to use across the gorgeous range – most of which can be purchased online. From a patterned Suzani quilt with a bohemian vibe, to a pair of stylish turned wood candle holders, here are our top picks.
Anna Spiro screen printed Suzani quilt: 100 per cent cotton and screen printed by hand, this gorgeous quilt is a fabulous way to incorporate pattern into your bedroom. We love its luxe, eclectic feel. From $282.
Anna Spiro frames: Available in a blue gingham, red medallion and green and yellow floral designs, these darling frames are perfect for displaying precious memories. From $35.
Anna Spiro Allegory boxed card set: Some of the prettiest stationery that we’ve seen. And in these digital times, is there anything more wonderful than receiving a hand written note? $27.
Anna Spiro Quatrefoil decorative tray: Featuring a quatrefoil inspired shape, this eye-catching trays would make a rather gorgeous addition to a coffee table or credenza. $93.
Anna Spiro tile shams, set of two: We love this contemporary take on vintage-inspired tilework that would work in eclectic and modern bedrooms alike. From $120.
Anna Spiro Confetti glass candle: These colourful, confetti-like glass candles would look lovely styled up on a coffee table or shelf and are far too pretty to throw out once the wick has burned. $38.
Anna Spiro Allegory lamp shade: Tapping into the cottagecore or granny chic trend, this unique lamp shade is perfect for a touch of whimsy. Pair it with a matching base. From $108 (shade only).
Anna Spiro Wooden Taper Candle Holder: There’s something so nostalgic and beautiful about turned wood. Handmade from tropical hardwood, these candle holders get our tick of approval. $52.
Anna Spiro’s first rug range is a riot of colour and pattern
Long time readers will know I’m a big Anna Spiro fan so I’m LOVING her debut rug range with Designer Rugs. If there was ever a time we all needed…
