Since Carlene and Michael Duffy’s departure from The Block and Reno Rumble, the couple have been busy with their latest venture, Cedar & Suede. Providing both face-to-face and e-design services, they pride themselves on creating interiors that not only look good, but actually work!
Their most recent project was the furnishing of a display apartment for Boheme, a multi-story residential development by Robina Group. With a brief that was classy, contemporary and cool, with a monochrome colour palette; the couple were determined to step away from the generic display home look.
“The design process was a bit tricky because I had to start ordering furniture before the apartment was even finished,” explains Carlene. “Because we were keeping to a muted colour palette I wanted to introduce plenty of texture to keep the space interesting. For example we used a beautiful soft, tan leather sofa; a pure wool rug; tufted, velvet bedheads; and pops of metallic to add some necessary sass and sophistication!” Other smart decisions included using slimline and low-lying furniture to open up the space and striking artworks and contemporary lamps to add character.
When it comes to creating this look in your own home, Carlene’s tips are simple: “Look for tactile, high-quality items that show longevity as a trend. Although it is okay to mix metals, I committed to brass in Boheme for my pop of metallic.”
With the couple focused on expanding their business in the coming months, they are also keen to put all their reality TV renovating experience to good use. “We are concentrating on growing Cedar & Suede and are in discussions for some brand collaborations. Also at some point in the very near future we plan to renovate our own home, which has been put on hold for too long. I’m looking forward to living in a finished home, whenever that may be!”
5 replies on “The Block’s Carlene and Michael’s beautifully styled apartment”
I would live to know where that bed is from!
I’d ask them on Instagram if I were you, Kate!
Ummm the velvet bed head….where is it from???
Its looks good but would not of put the phone jack on the kitchen bench takes up too much room and space, you need the phone point and the power to run a cordless phone and wifi with power, these items will get in the way and look untidy, the rug is too small for the space
Loving the combination of the soft materials such as the velvet, wool and suede with the metal! Nice job as always!