Tag: romy alwill

The new metallic – brushed metals will be big for spring

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 6, 2016
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From copper to brass and bronze, metallics will continue their reign into spring but with more of an aged, worn-in feel, says former Reno Rumble judge and E&S ambassador Romy Alwill. “Metallics can instantly brighten up a kitchen or living area that needs a much needed edge this season for a cost effective and quick renovation. As a build on the industrial trend we’ve seen in kitchens, we’re seeing a surge of interest around luxurious bathroom finishes, especially with aged metals such as antique bronzes and different types of brass,” says stylist Romy, who thinks the look will be popular for everything from doors and handles to cupboards and joinery.

And with dark cabinetry a strong look at present, metallic accents are the perfect complement. “Darker kitchens are definitely becoming more popular and people are looking to balance really good quality cabinetry with metallics on doors, handles and by putting small details on the front of the cupboards to customise the look and feel. Small updates, as we all know, can make such a difference and are very cost effective,” says Romy.

axor-citterio-e-shower-set-with-raindance-select-s-120-3-jet-handshower — Tap ware available at E&S

And it’s a look that isn’t limited to the kitchen, with the bathroom fair game too. “Ultimately, everyone is looking for something customisable that will make their bathroom or kitchen really stand out. Customisable elements such as organic looking tiles, or imperfect finishes are rising in popularity, as they deliver a really different look and metallics work in much the same way.”

brodware-basin-and-tap-set — Tapware available at E&S

The trend will also be seen in tapware with chrome and metallic mixers and taps very much on-trend. “A quality mixer in a bold colour can completely transform a kitchen or bathroom. In the kitchen, a pull-out mixer in an unusual tone or shape can become a talking point when entertaining guests. Installing a bold colour in the bathroom can also can inject much needed colour into this space,” says Romy.

brodware-classical-kitchen-mixer-with-pull-out-spray-copy — Tap ware available at E&S

Shop online.

Tags bathroom, E&S, kitchen, romy alwill, trends

RENO ADDICT The Block

New Reno Rumble judges Colin and Justin spill the beans!

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date March 21, 2016
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There’s a lot of twists coming in tonight’s Reno Rumble which we’re sure the producers are hoping will turn it into less of a Block spinoff and more of a show in its own right. There are two major changes this season. First, the homes are being made over for real families who, for a variety of reasons, really need and deserve a helping hand in the reno stakes (there’s nothing I love more than a proper human interest angle, pass the tissues already!), and second, Darren Palmer and Romy Alwill have been replaced by Scottish design duo (and one time Block guest judges), Colin and Justin. We chatted to them about what we can expect.

While Colin (McAllister) and Justin (Ryan) may be new faces to many Aussies, to a Pom like me they’re big names in interiors. The funny Scots are known for not mincing their words and have enjoyed huge success as hosts of a variety of home makeover shows in the UK, Canada and America. So where does Australia come into it? They appeared on the UK version of I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! in 2009, filmed in Australia, and got a local agent, who started opening doors for them here. After appearing as guest judges on a Block challenge last year, the producers asked them back to judge Reno Rumble.

“A really critical difference this year is that we deliver our judging face-to-face with the contestants for the first time,” says Colin. “Before, the teams didn’t get a chance to answer back. We are very much fans of saying it like it is!” There will always be an element of drama when one couple stands to walk away with a $100,000 prize, as the boys (who are a couple) rightly point out.

It’s not just about that though, as Justin adds. “As soon as you have the judges having a dialogue with the contestants, the viewers, many of whom want to learn from the show and get tips, are going to get a lot more from it. We have design backgrounds and can justify what we’re saying. But we very much want to critique rather than criticise.”

Despite the fact they’re fighting each other for the big prize, Colin and Justin say the contestants are a great bunch who have the best interests of the people whose homes they’re renovating at heart. “We feel like proud mums at sports day,” Colin says. “We are genuinely invested in this process as judges and we think that will show on screen. This show is going to genuinely change lives for people who have had a really rough time.”

Justin says the producers have chosen the homeowners very carefully. “These people have faced tragedy and loss and illness and it is so fantastic to see people working together to better their lives. It’s great to be involved in a show doing something like that. You forget it’s a competition in the best possible way.”

While the pair had already met host Scott Cam on The Block, they hadn’t met Shelley Craft before and said she went out of her way to make sure they were comfortable on set and was refreshingly down to earth compared to many of the people they meet in TV across the globe.

And having spent so much time in Australia, the experienced renovators, who live between Scotland and Canada, are tempted to buy here too. And their top tip for a drink in Sydney? The Baxter Inn in the CBD (you heard it here first).

Reno Rumble starts tonight on Channel 9 at 7.30pm. Tune in tomorrow for all the latest. As with our Block coverage, we’ll have all the reveals for you each week.

Tags channel nine, colin and justin, colin mcallister, judges, judging, justin ryan, nine, reno rumble, romy alwill, scott cam, scottish, shelley craft, the block

Expert Tips Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Interiors Addict TV: Carly & Leighton’s top scoring kitchen

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date June 24, 2015
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Carly and Leighton were super excited to get started on their homeowners’ kitchen brief of contemporary Australian this week, and the result, with its super-sized Caesarstone bench, brought tears of joy (as well as a top score of 19.5 out of 20)! The amazing indoor/outdoor space would probably have to be my favourite kitchen reveal yet!

Judges Darren Palmer and Romy Alwill loved it too, with its clean and warm look thanks to contrasting but subtle textures. The black tapware made a bold and modern statement, tying in with the black powder coated windows.

Freedom Kitchens helped the couple with design ideas, and additions such as brand new handles made sure it was absolutely on trend and cutting edge. Carly and Leighton were keen not to repeat anything that had already been showcased in the competition.

Watch our exclusive video interview with Lauren Ellis above for their top tips for Interiors Addict readers!

Watch all the episodes of Interiors Addict TV | Read all our Reno Rumble coverage on sister site Reno Addict.

Tags caesarstone, carly and leighton, darren palmer, entertaining, freedom kitchens, kitchen, kitchen design, reality tv, reno rumble, romy alwill, tv

Expert Tips Interviews Kitchens The Block

Interiors Addict TV: Josh & Jenna’s Reno Rumble chef kitchen

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date June 3, 2015
No Comments on Interiors Addict TV: Josh & Jenna’s Reno Rumble chef kitchen

Another week, another fantastic kitchen from ex Blockheads Josh and Jenna on Reno Rumble. Our Interiors Addict TV reporter Lauren Ellis chatted to the popular couple about what they did to create a room which certainly impressed judges Darren Palmer and Romy Alwill and the homeowners.

The space, designed with the help of Freedom Kitchens, is chock full of features which made it a real chef’s kitchen. Timber cabinetry and tiles added gorgeous texture and warmth, while the use of symmetry kept it clean and fresh looking. I personally loved the use of open shelving.

Watch the video to get Jenna’s top tips on creating a chef’s kitchen at home.

See all episodes of Interiors Addict TV.

Read our Reno Rumble coverage on sister site Reno Addict.

Tags darren palmer, design, freedom kitchens, interiors addict tv, interview, josh and jenna, kitchen, kitchens, lauren ellis, reno addict, reno rumble, renovating, romy alwill, the block, video

Architecture Design DIY RENO ADDICT

Reno Rumble’s third round of house reveals and elimination

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date May 25, 2015
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With the Blue Tongues struggling with budget issues and the Redbacks dealing with the infamous Reno Rumble bathroom curse, it was always going to be a tight race. And it was, with just six points dividing the teams!

In the end the Blue Tongues were the losing team, and Michelle and Steve were sent home. So what did judges Darren Palmer and Romy Alwill think?

Blue Tongues

Michelle and Steve

“This is mental!” said Darren upon entry. Their living room and entranceway saw Michelle and Steve pull out walls, change ceiling heights and fix all the cornices, which both judges agreed was done at a professional designer level! Romy loved the wall treatment, but thought the entranceway was a little busy and Darren thought the joinery around the fireplace could have been improved.

Carly and Leighton

Scoring a massive 20/20 for their kitchen and dining, the judges loved how they connected their space to the outdoors, through a window splashback. Darren loved the islandbench, the storage and the brick work. Romy thought the dining table felt warm and inviting and both judges agreed it was spot on the brief of relaxed industrial.

Ben and Jemma

Both judges loves the finishes in the bathroom and Romy especially liked how it wasn’t too fussy. She thought the strong grout lines and subway tiles worked beautifully but would have preferred brass tapware. Darren though the pendant light was superfluous, but both agreed all misses were miniscule.

Redbacks

Ayden and Jess

“Wow, wow, wow, this is heaven,” said Darren. The judged loved the combination of furniture and the white timber boards on the ceiling. Darren thought it was right on the money for the brief of Hamptons and the only miss was the aircon unit was a split system rather than being integrated.

Kyal and Kara

Receiving the second 20/20 for the night, the judges thought the kitchen and dining were amazing. Romy loved the splashback tiles and all the great detailing. Darren loved the atrium skylight over the dining room and the bench seat storage. Considering the major structural changes that had occurred, the judges thought the end result was extraordinary. “I’m loss for words,” said Romy. “This is sublime.”

Josh and Jenna

Using the same herringbone tiles from the kitchen for the floor tiles, was for both judges, a great choice. Romy thought the bathroom was very elegant and Darren loved how the roofline had been changed to give a sensation of space above you. Both judges loved the dual basins, the storage and the sconces on the wall, but thought some downlights by the mirror would have been beneficial.

What did you think of the houses? Did the Redbacks deserve their second win? And what do you think about this week’s massive twist that will see the teams change teammates?

Reno Rumble’s most gorgeous house reveals yet!

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date May 18, 2015
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After a week of four couples against three, last night’s episode saw the playing field become equal, with the Blue Tongue’s (ex-House Rules contestants) Chris and Nick, going home.

In my opinion, both houses were beautiful and much nicer than the Redbacks (ex-Blockheads) and Blue Tongues’ first attempts last week (read all about that here). But what did judges Darren Palmer and Romy Alwill think?

Redbacks

Kyal and Kara

With their design brief being modern vintage, both judges agreed their bathroom hit the nail on the head! A modern take, with some classic vintage elements, the bathroom fused modern matt black tapware with a claw foot bath. The judges loved the storage and tiles, but thought the shower head was way too low.

Ayden and Jess

Ayden and Jess scored a whopping 19.5/20 for their lounge room. “I am blown away,” said Romy. The judges loved the modern vintage feel and their only criticism was the finishing around the TV.

Josh and Jenna

Also getting a huge score of 19.5/20, the judges loved the daring kitchen and dining room. Light, bright and airy, they were wowed by the bold move of blue cabinetry and thought it managed to look fresh, rather that kitsch. The judges also liked the leather handles, the built-in fridge and the sky lights, however they both agreed the timber floor patching could have been better.

Communal space

With Michael and Carlene now evicted, the laundry/bathroom became a communal space. The judges really liked it and thought the shower was a welcome addition to the home. Darren thought it would have worked better if it had a door and that the toilet was a little too tight for the space.

Blue Tongues

Nick and Chris

Romy loved the floor tiles and how Nick and Chris had reconfigured the space to improve the bathroom’s layout. Both judges loved the bath being under the window, the floating vanity and the simple matt tiles. But then Darren realised something strange! The tiles were positioned differently on opposing walls. “I don’t understand why,” said Darren. Romy agreed: “I don’t see any rationale for changing it.”

Carly and Leighton

With a brief to design the house with a Scandinavian feel, their living and dining was spot on. With a warm, fresh feel, the judges thought the two spaces worked really well together. Darren liked the fireplace but Romy worried the rug was not appropriate for the homeowners’ one-year-old child.

Ben and Jemma

Both judges applauded Ben and Jemma on the massive amount of building work they had done. They agreed the kitchen was really functional, but thought the handles were a little clinical. Romy loved the accompanying family room and thought the TV was in a really beautiful piece of joinery. Darren said the space — like the kitchen — was really functional but thought the styling could have been less like a magazine and more like a home.

Michelle and Steve

Romy really liked the bathroom and Darren thought it was much better than Nick and Chris’: “It’s got more life, more soul!” Both judges really liked their second space, the laundry, and thought it had great character. Darren particularly loved the entrance way from the kitchen and the splashbacks, storage and cool drawers were also hits.

Both houses really nailed their briefs and while I did prefer the Redbacks’ home, it was a tight race. Which house was your favourite? Was it time for Nick and Chris to go?

Reno Rumble’s first full house reveals and elimination

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date May 12, 2015
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They promised it’d be a shock elimination but I still didn’t see it coming. With the Blue Tongues (otherwise known as the ex-House Rules contestants), mounting an epic comeback and piping the Redbacks (Blockheads) by one point!

Despite trailing the Redbacks by nine points after the first judging round (where the first four rooms of each house had been revealed) the Blue Tongues managed to close the gap and snag themselves top honours with the second round of room reveals. I’m still not sure how that really happened! I always thought the Blockheads had it in the bag!

So who went home? Really it should have been Kyal and Kara, who scored just 10 out of 20 for their dining room. But they were saved by their immunity, after scoring the highest score in the first round of room reveals. So, sadly, in the end it was Michael and Carlene, scoring 14 out of 20 for their bathroom, that left Reno Rumble.

Onto the judges comments…

Blue Tongues

Michelle and Steve

“That’s more like it,” said judge Darren Palmer when he walked into the lounge room. Judge Romy Alwill loved the warmth and Darren loved the light. They thought the lamps and console were spot on, though agreed the styling could have been a bit better and the rug a bit bigger.

Ben and Jemma

After falling short in their first room, they were keen to step it up in the dining room. “Wow,” said Darren upon entry. Romy loved how by raising the ceiling they had made the space light and bright. Both judges loved the speakers, the art and the aircon, but thought the styling on the table was a bit too much.

Nick and Chris

Both judges agreed that removing the structural column that was in the old kitchen was the right thing to do and really opened up the space. Romy loved the colour palette, the benchtops and the mirrored splashback. In the living room the judges loved the addition of the sky light and Darren “love love loved the fireplace.” However, both judges thought the rug was too large for the space and upon close inspection thought the furniture was more retro than contemporary coastal (which was the homeowners’ brief).

Carly and Leighton

“This is such an improvement,” said Romy. Both judges loved the bath and its shape. They thought the colour scheme fit perfectly with the rest of the house and that the floor tiles and pendant were brilliant. However, they agreed that while the vanity hit the brief it lacked bench space.

Redbacks

Josh and Jenna

Romy loved the colour scheme of the entry and lounge room. Darren loved the sliding paneling to hide the TV: “How cool is that?!” The judges agreed the room hit the brief of classic contemporary and felt expensive, like a Hollywood A-lister’s house. Romy felt the black pendant was a bit too small and high and that the curtains could have been longer.

Ayden and Jess

“Holy moley,” said Darren. Both judges agreed it felt like the biggest kitchen ever. Romy loved the herringbone splashback and the big sink. Darren loved all the bench space, but felt the extension of the kitchen into the dining room (for a breakfast bar) had been a really greedy move, at the expense of Kyal and Kara.

Kyal and Kara

The judges loved the artwork, chairs, mirror and console, but the compliments pretty much stopped there. “This is the most ridiculous sized tabletop I’ve ever seen,” said Romy. Darren agreed: “How can four people eat here?” Both judges thought the kitchen’s breakfast bar shouldn’t have been there, but rather a dining table for six to eight people. The judges thought the room was a fail. “It pisses me off,” said Darren.

Michael and Carlene

The judges loved the tiles and the generous shower. Darren didn’t particularly like the form of the shower head but liked the function (it had a music speaker!). Both judges thought the space was nicely styled, but that the pendants were a bit dated and the vanity bench space a little small. Romy thought stylistically they had hit the ball out of the park, but functionality had been put second.

So what did you think of the reveals? Which house was your favourite? Do you think Michael and Carlene deserved to go?