Tag: west elm

Categories
Design Furniture Shopping

west elm & Pottery Barn Kids collab on nursery range

west elm x PBK collection

In news that will excite expecting parents, the brand spanking west elm x Pottery Barn Kids collection launches at the end of this month and it merges west elm’s signature mid-century aesthetic with Pottery Barn Kids’ renowned craftmanship. The stylish range includes affordable nursery furniture, bed linen and accessories.

The Acorn mid-century convertible cot
The West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids collection acorn Mid-Century convertible cot

“This collection brings west elm’s most popular pieces to the nursery with the assurance of Pottery Barn Kids’ quality and rigorously tested safety, GREENGUARD Gold certification and 100 per cent cotton organic bed linen,” says Pottery Barn Kids president Jennifer Kellor of the first-time collaboration for the sister brands.

The West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids collection Audrey cot - the brass and geometric details are divine!
The West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids collection Audrey cot and change table – the brass and geometric details are divine!

While Pottery Barn Kids is coveted for its classic styling, mid-century lovers will delight in the collaboration. “Together, we recognised the opportunity to better serve our customers who are preparing for their next life stage by combining our skills and knowledge to create a modern nursery collection that is beautiful and sustainably made,” says west elm president Alex Bellos.

west elm x pbk Mid-Century convertible cot in acorn
West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids Mid-Century convertible cot in acorn

The collaboration is comprised of two distinct and complementary styles – the Mid-Century and Audrey collections. As you’d expect, the Mid-Century range features warm timber finishes and retro angled legs. The Audrey collection is a more glamorous affair and boasts luxe lacquer finishes, brass accents and geometric textures. Aside from good looks, the Audrey is highly functional too – the three drawer change table has a removable change table topper that parents can affix firmly to the back of the dresser and remove as baby grows.

The range will be available online from July 24 and thereafter in selected stores nationally.

For more | A fabulous unisex nursery

Watch this space for Jen’s new nursery reveal in the next few weeks…

Categories
Design Designers Expert Tips Furniture Homewares Styling

How to choose the perfect rug this Winter

When Autumn begins to slide into Winter and we start thinking warm thoughts about hot chocolate, hibernation and hygge (remember that?), it’s time to get serious about getting cosy. Let’s face it, we’re going to be spending a lot of hours inside so it’s time to rug up – quite literally.

“A rug is a great place to start when adding layers to your home to make it all nice and cosy for winter,” says Jodi Hall, west elm‘s national visual manager. “It’s also an easy reference when deciding on other pieces, like cushions and throws. Just work with the colours of your rug and you can’t go wrong.”

Choosing a rug can feel a bit daunting, but it needn’t. Start by deciding what floor plan is best for your space. For instance, if you’re looking for a living room rug there are two tried-and-tested layouts. The first is referred to as the ‘classic’, and it’s where you have a sofa or armchairs against a wall. Here, you want the  rug to be big enough to fit under the front legs of the furniture, but not stretch as far as the wall. The second is known as the ‘floating’ layout, where your furniture is in the centre of the room. For this, choose a rug large enough to fit under all four legs of each piece of furniture.

“Both these layouts work because the furniture is connected to the rug in the right proportions to the room,” explains Jodi. “So everything is visually anchored and balanced. Bedrooms often stump people, but I like to use a large rug under the bottom two thirds of the bed. It always looks good.”

Next things to consider are colour and pattern. If the room already has lots going on, a solid colour or neutral rug will bring things down to earth. But if your sofa and other pieces are quite simple, a patterned rug will make them pop. “For foolproof colour coordination, match the secondary colour in the rug to your sofa or other key pieces of furniture,” says Jodi.

At west elm, a couple of great neutral choices are the bestselling Vines Wool Rug, made of 100 percent wool and handcrafted in India, which has a subtle but sophisticated colour variation; and the Hand-Loomed Shine Rug that has a subtle shimmer. While both are neutral, they have another element of interest so never look flat or dull.

But if you’re set on something rich and sumptuous that will withstand the test of time, west elm’s Souk Wool Rug is a winner. A modern interpretation of a traditional Moroccan Berber, the classic charcoal and white colourway easily fits into any decorating style. It’s an all-round box ticker.

Whatever style, size, colour or pattern you lean towards, think of a rug as more than just a beautifully textured and insulating home warmer, but a piece of art for your floor. Each tuft, knot and loop are like paintbrush strokes coming together to form a rich masterpiece – but a masterpiece you can sink your toes into while binging on Netflix until Spring rolls around again!

Shop west elm rugs online or in store.

Categories
Art Furniture Homewares Shopping

Valentine’s Day: Our top pink picks

Given Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and we have a serious predilection for anything pink, we thought it was nigh time for a rosy-hued round-up on the blog this week. Whether you’re searching for a gift for your partner, or you simply feel like treating yourself, even cupid would be spoilt for choice with this bunch.

Globewest: From ottomans to sofas and occasional chairs in the most beautiful powdery shades, this Aussie furniture brand has been nailing the pink trend of late: (Clockwise from left) Sketch Orphan one seat sofa, $1045, Gus Margot three seat sofa $3570, Bogart Carousel ottoman $1235, Evie linen cushion $115, Sketch Nelly sofa chair $1295.

Le Creuset stoneware large heart plates: Go straight from the oven to table in style. From $35.

Adairs Mercer + Reid ultra soft bathrobe in polka dot rose: As soft as silk and with a pretty blush spot, this little beauty is on sale at the moment and has been reduced to $39.99.

West Elm Leopard object: Perfect for bookshelf styling, I adore this piece! $49.

Kerrie Hess ‘Paris Rose’ fine art print: Nothing says romance like the streets of Paris. $275.

Kmart set of four coasters in pink terrazzo: One of our favourite trends at the moment, this stylish set is a steal at just $6.

Nouvelle Nomad Inca Boujad floor cushions: More of a coral shade, these boho beauties are on my want list. $280 each.

Rosé Rosé rosé in a can: Chic and minimal, these cans make a great tabletop accessory. $24.99 (pack of four).

Check out a gorgeous soft pink apartment 

 

 

 

Categories
Designers Homewares

Shop like an American this festive season

While we may not want to admit it, Americans do Christmas very well; from the ornate lights – inspired by Home Alone – to the the eggnog and Christmas cheer. It’s all OTT and it’s all wonderful! So if you want to get in the festive sprit this season, get out that credit card and start shopping at these US-born brands. 

Pottery Barn: Meet all of your Christmas needs with decorations from Pottery Barn. From stockings and ornaments to dinnerware and throw pillows, you are sure to find designs that will add joy to your home. They also cover every theme from coastal cheer – think beach backdrops and rich blues – to enchanting woodlands – with faux fur and glamorous greenery.

Pottery Barn Kids: Sure, we may live in Australia but that doesn’t mean you can’t transform your home into a winter wonderland! Promising to set your kids’ minds alive with wonder, you can choose from the classical to the whimsical and everything in between. Also the stockings are just too cute!

West Elm: Just what any on-trend home needs this season, West Elm’s offering is full of non-traditional ornaments and metallic accents. Offering Christmas decorations with that little bit of spunk, their collection is both both wallet friendly and oh so cute.

Williams-Sonoma: Get your Christmas table in tip-top shape with the help of Williams-Sonoma. After all, holidays are all about family, friends and food! From dinnerware and glassware to festive sweets and accompanying drinks, Williams-Sonoma provides all the fun stuff!

Christmas inspiration

Categories
Art Designers Homewares The Block

Homewares to revamp your home for under $100

Styling your home can get expensive, especially when you’re eyeing off a candle that’s triple digits and a lamp just shy of $1000 (and that’s on sale!). Here at Interiors Addict we believe some items are worthy of spending that extra bit of cash, but that doesn’t mean you can’t transform your home for less… and when we say less we don’t mean cheap knock-offs, but beautiful, original and affordable pieces by local and emerging designers. Below are our favourite homewares to revamp your home for under $100.

Country Road’s Aila Round Platter: I’m an absolute sucker for a pop of pastel colour when it comes to homewares! Crafted in stoneware with a glazed glossy interior, this platter in quartz (baby pink) is perfect for mixing and matching and playing with colour and form. Designed for everyday serving it retails for $44.95.

Country Road’s Aila Round Platter

Wall Style’s Les Fleur #2: Soft in colour yet dramatic in appearance, this contemporary photographic image of a chrysanthemum makes a striking impact in any interior. Professionally printed with the finest quality inks on heavyweight archival paper, the small print (40cm x 40cm) retails for $89.95.

Wall Style’s Les Fleur #2

Design Twins’ Stripe Pot: Concrete homewares are having a major moment and the Design Twins have a lot to do with that! Their lightweight pot range is all the rage and for $90 you can get your hands on an extra small (28cm x 27cm) stripe pot. Black and white with a metallic twist, it is the ideal way to add some life and greenery to your home.

Design Twin’s Stripe Pot

Amigos de Hoy’s Splash Mat Round: Digitally printed onto low pile soft chenille, the rugs are non slip, washable and non allergenic. The perfect small area mat, they are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, indoors and out. Available in a variety of textured-looking patterns for $79, my personal fave has to be the Quill design.

Amigos de Hoy’s Splash Mat Round

West Elm’s Monte Mirrors: On special for $99.95 the plated brass mirrors bring shine and style to any room. Available in three shapes, pair them together or mix and match with other art for an instant gallery wall.

West Elm’s Monte Mirrors

White Moose’s Sleeping Frenchie: Not allowed a pet? Then this may be the next best thing. This French Bulldog is the model companion, it doesn’t even require walks! Available in black and gold for $79, it was featured on The Block so you know it’s on trend.

White Moose’s Sleeping Frenchie

Hunting For George’s Lola Clock: Currently half price at $89.50 (win!), this stylish and handmade bamboo clock is perfect for a Scandi-inspired home. Beautiful and minimalist in colour it comes in pastel lilac and yellow.

Hunting For George’s Lola Clock

Beacon Lighting’s Raika 1 Light Table Lamp: I’ve been eyeing off this lamp for years and it’s finally below the $100 mark… just. Now for $99 (that’s a saving of $150!) you can get your hands on this beautiful piece designed by The Block’s Josh and Jenna. Made from a combination of cork, amber glass and woven cloth it gives off a natural, industrial look.

Beacon Lighting’s Raika 1 Light Table Lamp (right)

For more affordable homewares

Categories
Furniture Homewares

Amy’s top 10 picks from west elm’s 2017 spring collection

west elm is back with a whimsical new collection for spring and we’ve got our eye on quite a few of the pieces. Animal lovers will be hard pressed to pick a favourite with a gorgeous brass monkey table and mid-century animal illustrations just two of the highlights.

Monkey side table: A mix of marble, brass and glass, this cheeky piece is a most excellent conversation starter. I want! $449.

Marcell wing chair in forest: I love the straight, angular lines of this piece – it has a futuristic feel despite its retro inspiration. $999.

Wallace Sewell Crewel multi pinwheel cushion cover: The geometric pattern and 1970’s hues make this statement cushion a collection standout. $49.

Streamline narrow side table, umber & antique brass: This one is the perfect solution for that tight space next to the sofa. $399.

Colourblock woven lounge chair, multi: One of the most jubilant outdoor pieces I’ve seen in some time. $499.

Fishs Eddy Charley Harper glassware: The whimsical work of mid-century American artist Charley Harper adorns this range. From $10.

Celine bench, light pink: Perfect for the foot of the bed or under a window, I love this practical, low bench seat. $599.

Diamond Point rug, frost grey 152cm x 244cm: Like a tranquil tapestry for the floor, this rug is finished with playful pom pom fringing. $499.

Concrete and metal standing planters: Made from lightweight resin to resemble concrete, and thus much easier to move around the house, these stylish planters are available in two sizes. $219 (medium) and $279 (large).

Dapper Jaguar salad plate: A statement for the table top, and perfect for lovers of anthropomorphism! There are four to choose from but I’m coveting the Jaguar. $9.

Shop online

Categories
Furniture Homewares

west elm’s winter collection preview: Amy’s top 10 picks

west elm’s winter collection arrived in my inbox this week and I was rather taken with it for a couple of reasons. Not only is the colour palette entirely sumptuous (think teal, chartreuse, navy and jade green) but I love how it combines lashings of abstract art with statement brass and earthy, handmade details.

Wire frame dining chair: Inspired by mid-century school chairs it’s the upholstery colours, combined with brass, that I love most about this design. $249.

Brass flamingo object: I’m a sucker for flamingoes and this little guy is no exception. He’s part of a wider story that includes a toucan and leopard too. Adore! $49.

Frameless mirrors:  Featuring bevelled edges and a variety of organic shapes, these mirrors are super versatile and just that little bit different. From $149.

Abstract brushstroke salad plate: Featuring a painterly pattern and real gold leaf trim, this plate is sure to take your setting up a notch. $16.

Terrace stripe pouf: Looped yarns and lurex combine to create this versatile boho-infused piece that works equally well as extra seating as it does as a foot stool. $349.

Pomegranate rug in ivory: A modern take on ikat, this gorgeous rug’s pattern was inspired by its namesake. From $699.

Arlo six-drawer dresser: This piece’s mid-century lines are nothing new for the brand but I love the addition of the metal rimmed recessed drawer handles. $1,499.

Spun metal standing planter: I adore this brass pot and its super slim legs are an elegant touch. From $99.

Soleil metal plant screen in yellow: Made for use inside and out, this number holds eleven pots and is not only fabulous for creating a green wall (trailing devil’s ivy would look fabulous on it) but for partitioning spaces too. $349.

Azur shag rug: A modern take on a Moroccan Beni Ourain rug, this 100 per cent cotton one is super soft underfoot. From $399.

Categories
Expert Tips Furniture

Interior trends: Just what does ‘modern style’ mean today?

Mid-century furnishings have become incredibly popular over the years – no doubt due to their enduring appeal and suitability to Australian homes. And the trend for modern shows no signs of abating. In fact, in 2017, there’s a fresh new vision for modern that is both inspiring and thoroughly liveable (two things all interiors should be).

west elm, one of my go-to brands, have always been at the forefront of breaking trends in interiors, creating furniture and homewares that are approachable and yet covetable. And we’re more excited than ever by their new-season collection, which offers a thoroughly fresh interpretation of modernism.

So how is the ‘new modern’ different from what came before? According to west elm creative director Johanna Uurasjarvi, “the new modern is about designing for the way we live now. It’s about embracing change without sacrificing comfort. It’s clean lines and striking silhouettes that still stand up to real life – the statement sofa that’s as comfortable as it is good-looking, the sculptural table that doubles as a homework station.”

To steal a metaphor from fashion, it’s about opting not for a stiletto heel but instead for a gorgeous brogue that’s chic, timeless and beautifully crafted while still being imminently comfortable, on-trend and a pleasure to wear. What more could we want for our home than to make it a place that welcomes us with comfort, beauty and quality?

What does the new modern look like?

“The new modern takes its cues from Scandinavia, edits in a whole bunch of other global influences and artistry, introduces new colour combinations, and mixes unexpected shapes, patterns, textures and materials in new and exciting ways,” sums up Jodi Hall, west elm’s national field manager for visual merchandising in Australia.

She points to the Orb Upholstered Dining Chair, with its bold curves and retro-inspired linen weave fabric, as a case in point. What makes it fresh – and even a little flirtatious – is its dusty blush colour, especially when paired with the peekaboo cutout and the sheen of the metallic legs. Importantly, it’s also a very comfortable, practical seat designed for leisurely evenings around the dinner table, or versatile enough to be used in the corner of a bedroom or living room instead.

s-5572271-orb-dining-chair-dusty-blush-yarn-linen-3-qtr-sp17-078-1

In contrast, there’s the masculine presence of the Benson Dresser in walnut-stained veneer, which would make itself happy at home in any room that needed a little more storage. Its clean lines and tapered legs are pure mid-century, and then there are those handles. Hand-stitched and wrapped in leather, fixed with brass details, they bring fresh appeal and a tactile, warm element to this chic tallboy. 

we-benson-5-drawer-dresser-dark-walnut-lifestyle

Another key part of the new approach to modern is handmade. At its heart, it’s about celebrating global artisans and nurturing their time-honoured crafts in the form of hand-loomed rugs, hand-embroidered cushion covers and hand-painted pottery. The new vision is all about collecting, editing and layering exactly those pieces you want to live with and making them part of the way you love to live – however that may be. And what could be more modern than that? 

Shop west elm’s new vision of modern now.

Categories
Homewares

Jen’s Christmas gift picks from west elm, Pottery Barn & more

Sponsored by Williams Sonoma Australia

You know who does Christmas well? Americans, that’s who! Having grown up in the UK, Christmas for me is all about roaring fires, mulled wine, huge roast dinners and plenty of baked goods. Here in Australia, while many people’s Christmas is more about the beach, great weather and seafood, I know plenty of us can’t resist the charm of a more traditional white Christmas vibe. Step into the US mega brands Pottery Barn, west elm, Williams Sonoma or Pottery Barn Kids right now and you’re sure to get your fix!

On top of that, the four stores are brilliant places to pick up Christmas gifts. So I’ve curated my favourites from each brand for you.

WEST ELM

Metallic + Pastel Glass Candle Holders, from $16

Combining this year’s trends for pastels and metallics, these would make a gorgeous gift! Great price point too.

metallic-pastel-glass-candleholders-d3998-alt2_imgz

Crewel Diamond Linework Cushion, $54

west elm do cushions SO well in my opinion and most of you readers would agree you can never have too many! I’m coveting this one and its monochrome palette makes it a safe bet to buy for someone else. As if you needed more reasons to love it, this cushion is made by hand in India and 100% cotton. I feel a gift-to-self coming on…

crewel-diamond-linework-pillow-cover-black-t3227-z

Cafe Scented Candle — Honey and Tobacco, $22

Trust me when I tell you this candle smells DIVINE. In fact, I’d go as far as to say this is my favourite candle discovery of 2016; on high rotation at my place. The packaging’s fab too. It would look gorgeous in anyone’s home.

market-cafe-scented-candles-honey-tobacco-d4042-z

POTTERY BARN

Copper Bar Flask, $44

Seriously, what guy (or gal!) wouldn’t love this? It’s also available in gold.

copper-bar-flask-zWaffle Weave Resort Robe, $159

An oldie but a goodie, you can’t go wrong with a luxurious white waffle robe for that spa feel at home. You can even opt to get this monogrammed for your loved one in store (but not online).

pb-resort-spa-robe-z-1

Luna Brushed Gold Cutlery Set, $69

I’d certainly be your new best friend if you bought me this gorgeous gold cutlery this Christmas! Perfect for entertaining or a bit of everyday luxury!

luna-brushed-gold-flatware-set-z

WILLIAMS SONOMA

The Original Peppermint Bark $42

Seriously, they need to make this stuff all year round, but then I guess it wouldn’t be such a festive treat. Creamy chocolate, white chocolate, peppermint oil and smashed up candy canes. What’s not to like, people? This stuff is so Christmassy and so moreish! The beautiful tin makes it perfect for gifting. You could even get away with skipping the gift wrap. There’s actually a whole Peppermint Bark range these days, with genius creations like Peppermint Bark Pretzels. Does it get more American or more festive?!

peppermint-bark-alt5_imgz

Cosy Cocktail Mixer, Mulled Pear $24

I once, innocently, asked my friend in the UK to Airmail me some mulled wine spice mix for Christmas. It did not end well. Customs didn’t like it for whatever reason! Another time, my in laws’ Christmas guests looked at me like I was a crazy lady for serving them hot mulled wine on a 30-plus day! I think this cosy cocktail mixer would go down well with the Aussies this Christmas though!

warm-cocktail-mulled-pear-alt1_imgz-1

Nordic Ware Small Anniversary Bundt Cake Pan, $40

Buying for a baker? Who could resist this beautiful cake tin? Not only will it help you create seriously impressive looking cakes without all the effort (a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing and you’re away!), it would also looking stunning hanging on a kitchen wall or displayed on open shelving. Gorgeous in gold! This is a smaller version of the original Nordic Ware bundt cake pan introduced in the mid 20th Century. Round out this gift with a packet of Bundt Cake Mix.

nordic-ware-small-anniversary-bundt-cake-pan-alt1_imgz

POTTERY BARN KIDS

Anywhere Chair, from $114 complete with cover. Monogramming available in store for an extra cost

The bestselling Anywhere Chair is a winner for kids. We bought Seb one for his first birthday and he loves it. Not only is it sturdier than some of the cheaper ones out there on the market, it also looks so much more stylish in your lounge room and you won’t want to hide it away! As an added bonus the cover is machine washable and you can buy a spare cover too (there’s a variety of colours and patterns to choose from) if your child, for example, tends to cover his in Weetbix kisses and touch it with yoghurt hands…

blue-harper-my-first-anywhere-chair-z-4

Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch & Max sheet set, $109

You’ve heard the concept of new PJs for Christmas, now what about new sheets?! I absolutely love these festive Grinch sheets! One flat and one fitted sheet and a pillowcase included.

3944456-z

Madeline Play Vanity, $399

What little girl wouldn’t love this pint-sized dressing table? So gorgeous! The extremely high quality will hopefully help you justify the price tag of this investment piece which could one day become a family heirloom! Tuffet stool ($109) sold separately.

madeline-play-vanity-z

New Star Wars

The Pottery Barn Kids Star Wars range has always been amazing and the latest pieces don’t disappoint! I’m loving the Play Chairs ($179) in Darth Vader or R2-D2 and the Decorative Cushions ($59).

star-wars-play-chairs-z

star-wars-decorative-pillows-z

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS AND TABLEWARE

You can also pick up some really special Christmas decorations from the stores. I’m loving the Merry and Bright Stockings from Pottery Barn Kids (even better if you personalise them) for $49, the Blowfish Ornament from Pottery Barn for $17.50 (and so many more of their tree decs) and the Felt Ball Sparkle Wreath from west elm for $69.

merry-and-bright-stockings-z-1

blowfish-ornament-z-1

felt-ball-sparkle-wreath-red-d4161-z

Happy shopping!

Categories
Bedrooms Furniture Homewares

Video: We love this bedroom look from Chatswood Chase Sydney

Sponsored by Chatswood Chase Sydney

I’m loving this week’s room set by Chatswood Chase Sydney in celebration of their Homewares Month. Perhaps it’s because it features some of the same cushions from west elm I have on my own bed! Seriously though, you can’t beat this season’s gorgeous blush pink. Can’t get enough! See this room come together in the video below.

homewares set week three 1

I love how budget and more high end brands have been used together to great effect here. And the use of the three Kmart artworks in a row makes a nice change from one larger piece. At just $14 each, why not?!

My favourites are that fab geometric side table at the end of the bed from west elm and the Scandi-style clothes rail from Kmart.

homewares month week three 2

You can find the latest room sets on level 2 in the Style Hub. Why not pop into the shopping centre for some inspiration?

Here’s a full list of where everything in this room can be bought at Chatswood Chase Sydney:

Drawer Set by WEST ELM
Flowers by PEARSONS FLORIST
Trinket boxes & Beauty accessories by KMART
Jewelry by SEED
Bed, Bedside tables, ottoman, cushions & throw by WEST ELM
Quilt cover, Serving tray & Accessories by BED BATH N’ TABLE
Sheet set by SHERIDAN
Wall hangs, Books & Night lamp by KMART
Scandi Wardrobe by KMART
Clothing & Accessories by SEED

There are loads of great offers and events in store this July for Homewares Month. Tomorrow (Saturday 23 July) there’s stylist Jason Grant’s bar cart styling session at Pottery Barn at 10.30am and a nursery styling event at Pottery Barn Kids from 3pm.

For more information.

Categories
Homewares Styling

Think pink: a stylist’s tips for using the new neutral

It’s feminine and romantic, welcoming and calming, but when used in a considered way – and not just in the form of paint – a little or a lot of pink can transform a room into a totally luxe and lustworthy space that can work for guys, too – Sketch Gallery in London, anyone?

It’s time to replace visions of Barbie-pink bedrooms and garish salmon bathrooms with more sophisticated shades of the colour; dusty blush, peachy pastel and velvety rose (mmm). Here’s a little pink-spiration from west elm and some tips from stylist Vanessa Colyer Tay on how to make pink work at your place.

Metal Frame Upholstered Chair, $999 (back in stock!).

Styling by Briar Stanley, Sunday Collector
Styling by Briar Stanley, Sunday Collector

So, how do you nail pink like a pro? “You have to consider pink as part of the bigger picture,” Vanessa says. “Use bolder shades as a vice to draw focus, and use softer shades of pink in place of light neutrals to create a warm, huggable atmosphere. A soft, velvety blush armchair like this one is a nice introduction into the world of pink without being OTT.”

Elton Settee, $1,199.

Styling by Vanessa Colyer Tay
Styling by Vanessa Colyer Tay

How much pink is too much? “If the room feels uncomfortable, then it is too much of the same shade, however when it comes to a combination of shades including light, dark, vibrant and pastel, there is no such thing as too much if the balance is just right.”

Mongolian Lamb Cushion Cover (61 cm), $199.

Mongolian Lamb Cushion Cover 1

What about using pink as a focal point? “Focal points can subliminally guide you through a space or invite a guest to sit on the sofa without you saying a word, such as a super-soft and inviting cushion. Think about how you want people to travel through your space, or what you want them to naturally see when seated and create some focal points accordingly.”

Hand-Loomed Shine Rug, from $549.

Hand-Loomed Shiny Rug 2

Is pink a new neutral? “The right shade of pink can work wonderfully as a neutral, offering more interest, warmth and femininity without going overboard girly – a faded pink rug or soft linen curtains are just a couple of ways you can use pink in-lieu of neutrals.”

However you decide to decorate with pink, whether you go the full haul or add a few subtle accents, I think we could all do with a little more pink in our lives!

Categories
Bedrooms Competitions Homewares

Video: Jen chats about her bedroom makeover with west elm

In this video, I chat to the super talented west elm stylist Brendan Nash about my recent bedroom makeover and show you around a bit more. It’s really fun to see it all come together in time lapse!

Heres’ the moodboard Brendan put together for my room after my brief. As you can see, almost everything made the cut!

If anything took your fancy, you can find the links to where to buy everything in the original post, where you can also enter your details for a chance to win your very own $1,000 west elm giftcard.

Would you like more video content on Interiors Addict? Let us know in the comments.

Categories
Bedrooms Competitions Styling

My bedroom makeover + win a $1,000 west elm voucher for yours!

west elm stylist Brendan Nash and I

Sponsored by west elm

JenBishop_web_jacquiturk-1

We recently bought our first home in Sydney and have been slowly but surely adding our touches to it. The biggest job is a full bathroom reno and we’ve just locked that down so you can follow its progress in the new few months! Onto less involved projects, and I was keen to make the most of our beautiful master bedroom. It’s spacious and light-filled with two windows, and is definitely the largest bedroom Damian and I have ever had.

JenBishop_web_jacquiturk-4

When we moved from our last place, I got ruthless at chucking out what I didn’t need or love. Bed, drawers and desk aside, it was a pretty blank canvas in the bedroom. We had it painted (Resene’s Black White) before we moved in, and installed new floors (natural oak laminate from Darren Palmer’s Provincial Lane range for Carpet Court) and it was just crying out for those extra layers of warmth, texture, colour and interest. I couldn’t think of a store I’d rather team up with to transform it than west elm as I pretty much love everything they do, so when they asked me, I leapt at the chance to work with them to turn my bedroom into a grown-up sanctuary (and the one place we try and keep the baby’s toys out of)! I’ve also recently moved a secretaire desk into the bedroom and when our part-time nanny starts, I plan on sometimes hiding in there to work!

JenBishop_web_jacquiturk-12

Their Design Services stylist, Brendan Nash, asked me what sort of look I was after before providing a mood board. I immediately loved almost everything on it, so after making a few tweaks, I left it all in his capable hands until makeover day! It was so exciting to have a professional style my bedroom; what a treat!

Regular readers will know my favourite colour is navy, which is convenient for a couple’s room because it’s nice and unisex! I also love gold accents and have them throughout our home, from my sofa legs to cabinet handles, accessories and so on. I wanted the room to feel calm and cosy, conducive to both relaxing and sleeping and focusing to write at my desk.

JenBishop_web_jacquiturk-6

I think you’ll agree, he nailed it! I absolutely love our new room and have found myself going to bed early a lot because I’m so keen to hang out in there! I also swear my bed is more confortable thanks to its new linen, although I’m not sure if this is in my head or the reality?! I’m also a definite convert to the top sheet, something I have never seen the point of having before with a doona! With winter drawing in, it was the perfect time to transform this space into a warm and inviting boudoir!

JenBishop_web_jacquiturk-11

I love the layered rug look (something I wouldn’t have been brave enough to try myself) and while I don’t think I’d have picked the bedsides myself, they’re a surprise hit! I love the texture and warmth added by the reclaimed timber, but the white lacquer is modern and light and easily wipe clean. I love the roomy drawer to hide away all those essentials, and the space underneath for books and mags.

It was a real luxury to have my bed made to look like one out of a magazine spread and I watched Brendan and his colleague Naomi Young carefully, making mental notes. I absolutely love the feel and laid back luxe look of linen but had never thought of choosing it in navy before, always playing it safe with white. I really love the colour injection in this room. Cleverly, the only touches of pink are in the one cushion and the flowers, so if I want to change the pink to a different accent colour down the track it’ll be really easy (and let’s face it, everything goes with navy!).

If you have a little bedroom envy (and frankly, I couldn’t blame you!), then listen up, because west elm are giving you the chance to win a $1,000 voucher to spend on goodies for your own home. Simply enter using the form below by midnight Sydney time on 25 May 2016.

west elm stylist Brendan Nash and I
west elm stylist Brendan Nash and I

JenBishop_web_jacquiturk-13

SHOP items from west elm: Reclaimed wood and lacquer bedside tables | Traced diamond kilim rug (layered on existing west elm jute rug) | Small pillar table lamps in antique brass | Telescoping floor lamp | Mongolian lamb cushion cover in Rosette | Belgian flax linen cushion cover in Midnight | Belgian flax linen quilt cover and pillowcases | Striped Belgian flax linen Euro pillowcases | Belgian flax linen border stripe sheet set | Belgian flax linen quilted coverlet | Cotton tassel throw in Ivory | Gallery frames in polished brass | Gallery frames in black | Glass hexagon shadow boxes | Woven tray | Metal framed round wall mirror in antique brass | Graphic printed basket | Basketweave ceramic vases | Faceted metal vase | Scissor spindle dining chair (at desk) | Glass decal scented candle tumbler.

All I want to change now is the blinds, but I can’t decide whether to go for curtains or blinds or to splash out on plantation shutters! What do you think?

Everything else pictured is my own. Please ask in the comments if you’d like to know where something is from!

Did you know west elm offer a free design service, in your local store, your home or via phone?

Full competition terms and conditions. Entry form below.

[gravityform id=”26″ title=”false” description=”false”]

Photography by Jacqui Turk

 

Categories
Decorating 101

How to choose a rug: size, shape, colour, type and budget

Rugs wield so much power. They can: ground a room, add warmth, texture and colour, reduce echo, define a space, play off existing palettes and they also feel great underfoot.

Torres Wool Kilim Iron

But just how do you choose a rug? Do you go for a larger rug? A round rug? A colourful rug? Neutral? Wool? Jute? It can become overwhelming if you don’t know the rules to buying a rug to suit your home – that will last.

Brendan Nash, west elm Bondi’s home stylist, knows his way around rugs! Every day he works with customers to create beautiful homes. With an eye for accessories, together with his know-how on the how-to when it comes to rug shopping, he can help you go from bare floor to brilliant in just five easy tips.

R and R Wabi Sabi Circle Wool

  1. Size. Don’t skimp! Size is important. Size is THE most important. A large rug can make a small room feel larger! How your new rug fits your space will completely change the way it feels.

As a general rule, I tend to go for the largest size that you can comfortably fit, that you can afford, and fits proportionally with your existing furniture. The legs of your sofa and your coffee table should always land on the rug which will help the space not only feel a little more finished, but also give the illusion of more space. Buy larger – a small rug can look really mean in a large space. Unless it’s a hallway – then a rug runner is perfect.

Boho Textured

And always, always measure up before you go shopping. I also really love when customers bring a photo of their room with them. It helps me visualise how the rug is going to work within that space.

  1. Style. What’s the look you are trying to go for? Take a look at your room and your furniture – then decide what direction you want to go in. Are you after a woven natural fibre rug that works back well with your light and airy home, or are you after something a little more wild to complement your eclectic style? Either way, rugs are generally an investment piece so it’s important to get something that will complement your space.

Consider shapes too – if you have a round dining table, a round rug will work to accentuate that statement piece. Patterned rugs work really well with glass top tables for extra visual interest.

  1. Practicality. Think about where the rug will live, and how you live in the space. Does durability factor into your decision? Jute’s a great option – and so is wool! Is it a high traffic area? Go for wool. It’s easy to maintain. Bedroom comfort? Think about who will use the rug, how often it’s used and the upkeep factor to help guide the material and style you decide on. Plus nice soft rugs always work well in the bedroom.

If you have an open floor plan – a rug really helps to define spaces. A rug has the power to anchor the space – and differentiate between living, dining and relaxing areas.

  1. Budget. Sometimes what we dream of and what we can afford are two very different things. My biggest advice is to set a realistic budget on what you can afford but will still very much fit the brief. A rug will live in your space for quite some time – and therefore should be seen as an investment piece. Shop smart! Invest in a good quality product that will stand the test of time. Like anything, it’s easy to get swept away in the moment, and the next thing you know – that vintage persian rug from Sotheby’s is on its way to you! Think calmly and pragmatically, and plan out your purchase.\

Multi Pixel Woven Rug

  1. Try before you buy! To give you an idea of the dimensions of a rug and how that size and shape looks in your home, map out some painting tape and newspaper on the floor – exactly where you would place the rug, to give you more of an idea whether that size will work. This gives you a better idea of dimensions instead of having to visualise.

Given rugs always look different in your home than they do in store – lighting, furniture and your space will all factor into how the rug looks – west elm offers customers samples to take home and try before committing.

—west elm offers free design services to all customers – from picking colours and palettes, to designing your whole home.

Categories
Bedrooms Furniture Homewares Kids Rooms Styling

Interior trend: Navy is back

Lighter than black, but still as sophisticated, navy is the latest design classic to experience a resurgence. Quite the chameleon, you could consider navy a neutral as it complements most colour schemes. Check out our top picks.

West Elm Sloan upholstered chair in navy leather: We love this club chair’s clean lines (Jen recently bought it for her new place), rich navy hue and solid wood legs, $799 on sale.

sloan_leather_chair_mariner_z_alt_1

Country Road Drew king quilt cover: The large scale of this gingham design makes this quilt clean and modern, rather than fit for grandma’s bedroom, $249.

2 Country Road

Target Coastal Navy Stripe paper hamper: With a fabulous nautical feel, this hamper is perfect for laundry or simply general storage, $20.

3 Target

Eco Chic Emilia bedside table in navy: The bamboo detail in this bedside is gorgeous — as are the high-gloss finish and glass handles, $1,620.

4 Eco Chic

Citta Design Globe bath towel range: We love the soft feel of these velour towels and their super smart, masculine style, from $6.90.

5 Citta

Freedom Becker pedal bin 3L in navy: Who says a bin needs to be entirely utilitarian? It’s the matte finish that piqued our interest. $29.95.

6 Freedom

Eco Chic Panel navy linen cushion: Yes it’s pricey but this chic number will never date. $190.

7 Eco Chic Panel_NavyLounge_cushion__45965.1445648356.450.450

Country Road Baxter knit cushion: The perfect pop of navy for your little one’s room. $59.95.

8 Country Road

Categories
Expert Tips House Tours Styling

Briar from Sunday Collector shares her small home office tips

As we come off the high of holidays and settle back into work for the year ahead, we’re looking for fresh ways to create a functioning and invigorating space to work from.

SundayCollector_WestElm_web_jacquiturk-2

Sydney-based interior decorator and founder and editor of Sunday Collector, Briar Stanley, recently shared her perfectly curated home office space, so she can already tick #officegoals off her to-do list for 2016.

Today she shares seven tips on creating the perfect small space home office:

Purchase quality. Storage items that look great on display are a must (avoid the corporate/plastic variety). A beautiful pen caddy, in tray and magazine file is all I need in front of me for my day to day desk duties. I also choose to work on a laptop as I often have to take work with me when travelling, but it’s also a far more compact option for a small desk space than a bulky monitor and hard drive combination.

SundayCollector_WestElm_web_jacquiturk-5

Hide your work. As pictured in my apartment, custom build a small home office as an extension from your kitchen that can be concealed with neat pocket doors when not in use. Other good spaces for a compact home office would be the space under a set of stairs or a stairway landing space, an awkward corner of a room not in use, or even a large empty wardrobe.

Good light. I find working in natural light during the day is lovely, but a good quality desk lamp such as the Factory Task Lamp, is important to brighten up your small work space at night, just ensure the lamp is not oversized and proportions are in keeping with the small desk. An angle poise lamp is also a good idea for task light direction you can control.

SundayCollector_WestElm_web_jacquiturk-4

Minimise the clutter. Avoid the mistake of trying to keep everything sitting in front of you at your work space. If it’s possible – dedicate a cupboard close by for the items that tend to clutter a desk – including bulky items such as folders and a printer.

Look up. Free up floor space and make the most of the wall space in front or to the side of your desk with a large moodboard. Open wall mounted shelving for things like reference books, storage boxes and trays will keep your desk clean, as would a tall bookshelf or cupboard – make the most of the full height of your walls.

SundayCollector_WestElm_web_jacquiturk-18

Keep cords and wires hidden. Hide the spaghetti mess as much as possible. Pictured in my home office are doors underneath the desk that open up to reveal wall mounted powerpoints. Cords are directed down to these powerpoints from a small opening in the corner of my desk.

Be comfortable. If you’re already sacrificing on space, you don’t want to be sitting in an uncomfortable chair all day. Look for adjustable height, armrests, a deep seat depth, proper wheels and of course something that looks good. I chose a chair for my office with a low back and light in fabric colour – so it’s not too overpowering at the small desk.

SundayCollector_WestElm_web_jacquiturk-19

Styling by Briar Stanley | Photography by Jacqui Turk | Images courtesy of west elm

 

Categories
Furniture Homewares

This week, Jen’s loving… 21.01.16

This year, I thought it’d be fun to share some of my personal favourite products with you each week. I get sent details of so many lovely furniture and homewares and I thought you might like to know what I’m lusting after and why. So without further ado, this week’s finds…jen's loving 21jan16

Clockwise from top left:

This Roar + Rabbit Swivel Chair, new at West Elm, makes me swoon! Dusty blush pink, pleats, gold legs, velvet, SWIVELLING! What’s NOT to like, I ask you? Okay, maybe the price, which is a little out of budget right now at $1,299. But a girl can dream of it going on sale later…

The neat design of Raymor’s Pattison Wall Hung Basin ($479) with integrated towel rail makes it a great choice for en suites and smaller bathrooms. Clever!

The Gus Margot 3 Seater in midnight velvet is my dream sofa and guess what?! I just bought it from GlobeWest for the new home we’re moving into next week. I had to have it! This will be our statement piece in an otherwise neutral living room. Can’t wait!

I’m loving these Brass Button Wall Hooks from Zakkia too. Use them to hang anything from a mirror to jewellery to your coat! $29 for small and $39 for large (which holds up to 5kg).

Categories
Shopping

Bring back the festive shopping experience at Chatswood Chase

Sponsored by Chatswood Chase

If you’re one of those people who has already started their Christmas shopping, well done to you! If you’re one of those people who finished it last month, I hate you! You make me feel bad! Seriously, every year I am so disorganised and I think it’s a reflection of our busy lives that everything becomes last minute and stressful. Remember when Christmas shopping was a fun, festive activity you looked forward to? It was an event! Although I’m the first person to praise the convenience of ecommerce, it’s time to bring back some of that enjoyable gift-buying experience. And Sydney’s Chatswood Chase Sydney is a great place to be inspired!

Sebastian and Jen Chastwood Chase Christmas shopping
Sebastian and I ready to hit the shops!

Having always lived on the north side of the bridge, I’ve been shopping at the Chase for years. But in the last 12 months, as an interiors addict, it’s become even more inviting, with the addition of furniture and homewares brands like Kartell and Incy Interiors (as a mum, they and Pottery Barn Kids are my go-tos for Sebastian’s nursery) and Wheel and Barrow, not to mention the American mega brands west elm, Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma (enough to get even me baking!). So level 2 has become a favourite place to spend time. What I love about Chatswood Chase is they have many stores which are unique to Sydney’s north side, making it a real destination for something a little different. Also worth mentioning, the homewares section in Country Road is huge!

Let’s face it though, these days we want more than just a great range of stores from our shopping centre experience. We want a nice lunch, easy parking, great baby change facilities and even somewhere to stop for a glass of wine, rest our weary feet and compare purchases with our girlfriends at the end.

Looking festive in store at west elm
Looking festive in store at west elm

On the subject of wine, I was delighted to find that Mosman favourite Burnt Orange has opened a second cafe restaurant on level 1 which is a really special place to eat or have a coffee. Away from the main food court and surrounded by fashion stores, it’s a peaceful spot and the cakes are amazing (we tested them for you). Did I mention they’re licensed and serve afternoon tea? All under a glass ceiling so it’s nice and sunny and brings the outside in (or you can choose a shaded area if you prefer).

burnt orange

Husbands can be bribed to come shopping with coffee and cake (at Burnt Orange)
Husbands can be bribed to come shopping with coffee and cake (at Burnt Orange)

If you’re after something more substantial, we have to recommend you head to Mrs Mi, the first one in Australia, from Taste of Shanghai Group. This is relaxed eating, in a restaurant off the lower ground food court, but the food is of a very high standard. Let’s face it, if you’re going to offer dumplings and noodles somewhere like Chatswood, you need to know what you’re doing as competition is stiff!

mrs mi chatswood chase exterior

There’s a reason people were queuing out of the door when Damian and I arrived with Sebastian (prams can be left outside), and not just the fun robotic chef assisting with making the fresh noodles (they were so good!) in the window! Our lunch was delicious! I’m not one for fried chicken but theirs is something else, and my favourite had to be the pork wontons in red chilli oil. This is not your typical food court experience. Top tip: order the cherry tomatoes in plum juice (sounds wrong but it’s so right!) and have one in between each course to cleanse your palette!

chatswood chase mrs mi
Damian, Sebastian and I enjoyed lunch at Mrs Mi

During the Christmas period, there’s plenty happening at the shopping centre to enhance your experience and make it more leisurely and less stressful. Why not consider using the $12 valet parking, taking advantage of free gift wrapping or treating yourself to a well deserved facial or blow dry (for the office Christmas party) once you’ve ticked everyone off your gift list? There are plenty of options including Biiu Day Spa, and Luc Espace.

Now, we all know shopping with kids (and husbands sometimes…) in tow can be, well, challenging. Chatswood Chase can help in this respect. Not only did we discover a fantastic play area near Pottery Barn Kids where you can even draw on a giant interactive screen, there’s currently Stay Play Shop until Christmas Eve on level 2 where you can leave your little ones for up to two hours ($5 per half-hour, per child) to enjoy crafty activities with fully trained staff.  The baby change facilities (on all 4 levels) are some of the best we’ve seen (and this has become very important to us recently!) with great changing and feeding areas. You can even watch your child in the play area within baby change on a TV screen while you’re in the parents’ toilet! These little things make a big difference!

Sebastian enjoys the play area with Daddy
Sebastian enjoys the play area with Daddy

There’s plenty more to get you in the festive spirit. Get your kids’ Santa photos on the lower ground floor, pick up your All I Want For Christmas Guide for gift-buying inspiration, get your gifts wrapped for you up until Christmas Eve, or buy a special edition gift card for the person who has everything, illustrated by Sally Spratt of The Lust List with a donation going to Make-A-Wish Australia for every one sold.

And before I sign off, my top four shops to buy tree decorations at the Chase, clockwise from top left are: Pottery Barn, west elm, Bed Bath N Table and Country Road.

christmas decorations chastwood chase

Check out Chatswood Chase’s Christmas Gift Guide online.

Next week: My step by step guide to buying gifts for everyone in your life from Chatswood Chase!