Lifestyle | Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/ Homes, Bathroom, Kitchen & Outdoor Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:11:55 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.4 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/cropped-HBFavIcon2024.png Lifestyle | Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/ 32 32 221866170 Will Dan Reilly be returning as foreman for The Block 2025? https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/dan-and-dani-the-block/ Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:25:40 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1253853 Dan and Dani are heading to Daylesford.

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After the heartbreaking loss of their newborn daughter Billie in December 2024, it would have been understandable if Foreman Dan didn’t feel up to being on The Block in 2025.

In positive news, it’s been confirmed he’s back for the 21st season, alongside judges Darren Palmer, Shaynna Blaze and Marty Fox.

His wife Dani, along with their two beloved dogs, Hazel and Olive, have also joined Dan in Daylesford, where the series is being filmed.

“Always a special moment seeing her step onto a new site, but this one hits different,” Dan shared in March 2025. “We’re pumped for what’s to come — bring on the chaos, creativity, and a massive season ahead!”

Dan and Dani on site for The Block 2025
The couple on site in Daylesford for The Block 2025. (Image: Instagram via @danreilly_official)

Dan and Dani Reilly (maiden name Wales) from The Block were first introduced back in 2012 as contestants. Who would have thought that 12 years later Dan would have been stepping into the role of head foreman on The Block 2024. He took over from Foreman Keith Schleiger, who stepped away from filming to remain close to his two daughters.

While Keith was missed, fans of Foreman Dan have been stoked to see him on our screens more. It’s not his first rodeo though, having been associated with The Block since its early days. As a young couple, Dan and Dani first appeared on the show way back in season five, and we’ve loved seeing his building credentials and confidence increase ever since.

Here, we catch you up on everything that’s gone on with OG The Block team Dan and Dani since the beginning to now.

Dan and Dani from The Block at their baby shower
The Block’s Foreman Dan with wife Dani at their baby shower in October 2024. Their daughter Billie was born on December 8, 2024, and sadly passed away 10 days later on December 18, 2024. (Image: Instagram via @danreilly_official )

Meeting Dan and Dani on The Block 2012

Young couple Dan Reilly and Dani Wales stole the nation’s heart when they first hit The Block as a team on season five in 2012. “It’s the toughest challenge we’ll ever do… but it is rewarding,” Dan shared about his Block experience.

The pair came second and the home they worked on sold for $1.44 million, earning them $448,000 in profit. “The day that changed our lives forever…” Dani wrote on Instagram with a photo of them on the auction day. 

Dan and Dani from The Block with the door to their first completed house.
Dan and Dani outside the red door to the first home they did on The Block, in 2012. (Image: @danreilly_official via Instagram)

Returning to The Block: All Stars in 2013

Fan favourites Dan and Dani were back the following year to compete as All Stars in season six. There were dramas galore, with the pair becoming fast friends with fellow The Block faves Josh and Jenna (who are now renovating their Rutherglen homestead) and the four of them trying to keep Amity and Phil off the top spot. It didn’t work and Amity and Phil ended up winning, but they’ve since sadly split – news of their divorce came out in 2018. In the end, Dan and Dani walked away in third position that season and a not-too-shabby $220,000 in winnings.

Dan and Dani from The Block with fellow All Stars Josh and Jenna.
Dan and Dani with Josh and Jenna, who they competed against in The Block: All Stars in 2013. (Image: @dani_wales via Instagram)

The Block Dan and Dani: After the show

The success continued even after The Block team Dan and Dani finished their two seasons on the show. Dan upgraded his carpentry qualifications to become a certified master builder and they launched an interior design and construction company called Manna Made.

Dan and Dani the Manna Made founders with their dogs in their Blairgowrie home.
Manna Made founders Dani and Dan in their Blairgowrie house with their dogs. (Photography: Timothy Kaye / @mannamade via Instagram)

The pair worked on some incredible homes of their own too. Their cottage in Seddon, Victoria, sold in 2016 for $1.3 million. More recently, they built on the Mornington Peninsula. That Blairgowrie home sold for near asking price, with a guide of $3-$3.3 million. “We’re really happy with the final result and are already on the hunt for our next dream project,” Dani told Homes To Love.

Meanwhile, Dani was a co-host on Healthy Homes on Network Ten along with Walt Collins. In 2023, after 10 years hosting, Dani shared on Instagram that the show was coming to an end.

Dan and Dani from The Block outside their Blairgowrie house.
Dan and Dani outside the Mornington Peninsula home they sold in 2023. (Image: @dani_wales via Instagram)

Foreboy Dan joins The Block in 2014

Graduating from contestant to cast member, Dan Reilly joined The Block in the role of ‘Foreboy Dan’ in 2014. He joined foreman Keith Schleiger who began on the series in 2011. Their jobs are to ensure building regulations are adhered to.

Dan may have clashed with Keith when he was a contestant, but being on the other side made him see things in a whole new way. “It wasn’t until I started doing this job that I realised how hard his role is,” Dan shared of their past beef. “It is not a fun thing coming into a near-complete room and telling someone that it has been done wrong and they’ve got to rip it up and redo it.”

By 2016, he’d been promoted from Foreboy to ‘Foredan’ and was nominated for Best New Talent at the Logies. Dani has been his biggest cheerleader. “It’s still funny seeing him on the show. I never in a million years thought anything like that would end up happening,” she shared. “Way back when we did the show, Dan was really funny and really engaging, but not so great when it was ‘Solo Dan to camera’ stuff. But watching him develop has been really cool. I tell him every series, ‘I’m so proud of how far you have come.’”

Dan from The Block with Keith.
The Block foremen Dan and Keith ended up becoming great mates. (Image: @danreilly_official via Instagram)

Are Dani and Dan still together?

They might not be a duo on The Block anymore, but Dan and Dani are still together. They got married in 2018 after eight years of dating. Guests at the nuptials included foreman Keith and their mates Josh and Jenna.

Dan and Dani from The Block on their wedding day, hugging and smiling.
Dan and Dani on their wedding day in 2018. (Image: @danreilly_official via Instagram)

Dan and Dani The Block 2024

We loved seeing Dan step up his foreman duties in Keith’s absence on The Block 2024. It looked like Dani wasn’t far from his side during filming. Early in the season she posted a snap showing the pair of them walking next to the sign for Phillip Island’s Island Cove Villas, where the season was filmed and Dan posted a wrap up of his first season flying solo on his own Instagram feed. Joining the line-up of guest appearances including The Block stars Alisa and Lysandra and The Block 2023 winners Steph and Gian, the pair also shared their thoughts on the backyard and front garden and facade reveals on The Block website, with Dan confessing he was quite proud of the results achieved by the teams – a view not always shared by Dani!

Dan and Dani from The Block walking next to the Island Cove Villas Sign.
Dan and Dani snapped on set of The Block 2024 on Phillip Island. (Image: @dani_wales via Instagram)

Do Dan and Dani have a baby?

In very happy news, the couple announced in July 2024 that they’re having a baby. “So, who’s going to tell them the pram isn’t theirs?! Baby Reilly incoming late 2024,” they shared, with a photo of Dani’s pregnant bump and their pups, Hazel and Olive. 

Dan and Dani from The Block showing Dani's bump with two dogs.
Pregnant Dani with Dan and their precious pooches. (Image: @dani_wales via Instagram)

Dan and Dani’s baby girl, Billie Vera Reilly, was born on December 8, 2024, and very sadly passed away 10 days later on December 18, 2024. All of The Block community and fans mourned with them as they made the heartbreaking announcement.

“It is with insurmountable grief that we share the news that our daughter Billie has passed on from this life and into the next at just 10 days young,” they said. “Billie was so wanted, so loved and she made us parents… and what an honour it is to be her mummy and daddy. She will always be our daughter.”

The couple also shared a link to donate to The Royal Women’s Hospital if people were interested in supporting the nurses, doctors and staff in the NICU who had cared for their daughter, Billie.

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1253853 Dan and Dani The Block 2025 Dan and Dani The Block baby shower Dan and Dani The Block first completed house Dan and Dani The Block with Josh and Jenna Dan and Dani Manna Made with dogs Dan and Dani The Block Blairgowrie house Dan from The Block with Keith Dan and Dani The Block Married 2 Dan and Dani The Block 2024 Dan and Dani The Block pregnant homebeautiful-1253853
7 simple ideas worth stealing from With Love, Meghan https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/ideas-to-steal-from-with-love-meghan/ Thu, 13 Mar 2025 04:23:31 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1265758 Other than day drinking and one-pot pasta.

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Meghan Sussex (as we learned on the series, Meghan Markle is no more), has captivated us once again with her Netflix series With Love, Meghan, offering a glimpse into her world of effortless elegance, creativity and calm.

While living like Meghan might not be entirely realistic for the rest of us, there’s no harm in taking a little inspiration from the Duchess herself. The stunning house, incredible vegetable garden and, of course, the chickens and beehives (that come with helpful staff to take care of them) might be beyond our reach, but there’s no harm in aspiring to be a little more like Meghan. 

Whether it’s her knack for turning everyday moments into something extraordinary or her love for thoughtful details, Meghan’s approach to living and entertaining can bring a sense of joy and beauty into our own routines. 

Here’s how to inject a little Meghan magic into your daily life (or, you know, dream a little).

1. Have an offering when guests arrive

Welcoming guests with a thoughtful gesture – whether it’s a buttery croissant or a refreshing peach mimosa – not only shows warmth and consideration but also sets a relaxed tone, giving everyone something to enjoy while you put the finishing touches on the meal.

Meghan with Mindy Kaling drinking peach mimosas
Meghan and Mindy Kaling enjoying peach mimosas while they cook. (Image: Justin Coit/Netflix)

2. Take something everyday and elevate it a little bit

Press dried flowers into shortbread biscuits, crown a cake with fresh berries or turn store-bought pretzels into a charming gift with a ribbon and handwritten label. Meghan has a way of adding that little extra touch, proving that everyday moments can feel effortlessly elevated.

Close up of Meghan's hand putting flowers on shortbread before baking
Shortbread becomes a little more special with dried flowers. (Image: Jake Rosenberg/Netflix)

3. An organised space is an organised mind

In the series, Meghan is all about organisation. Everything has its place, and ingredients are always decanted into special bowls or containers. She also keeps things tidy while cooking, and Chef Roy Choi, who appeared on the show, agrees that cleaning as you cook is the way to go. If it works for them, it’s worth a try.

Meghan's open pantry with organised jars
Meghan’s on-set pantry is what dreams are made of. (Image: Jenna Peffley/Netflix)

4. The forgotten fun of board games

Inspired by Meghan playing Mahjong with her friends, we were reminded of the forgotten fun of board games – simple, nostalgic and a great way to connect. And of course, a few cocktails on the side never hurt either.

The Mahjong board with drinks
Mahjong may just be the activity you need to spice up your social life. (Image: Jenna Peffley/Netflix)

5. Simple ingredients can be truly special

Meghan took fresh berries from her garden and turned them into preserves, adding flavour to everything from parfaits and cakes to crepes and cocktails. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination.

Meghan dusting icing sugar over crepes with a jar of preserve next to it
Who knew berry preserve could be used so many ways? (Image: Courtesy of Netflix)

6. Throw perfection out the window

We like Meghan’s philosophy that it’s not about being perfect, it’s about being passionate (although she does seem pretty perfect). From candle-making to floral arranging, embrace the process and make it your own. Where there’s a will, there’s a way – if you’re Meghan, at least. 

Meghan creating a floral arrangement in a vase
Market flowers get the Meghan spin on them. (Image: Courtesy of Netflix)

7. Love is in the details

You can put a little extra heart into everything. Sandwiches become more engaging for both young and old with ladybug toppers, while hand towels are made extra special with a dunk in lavender water. And when in doubt, make a charcuterie board!

Slices of bread with produce arranged into ladybugs and flowers
Edible flowers and a few strawberries create a magical grazing plate. (Image: Courtesy of Netflix)

Catch every episode of With Love, Meghan on Netflix.

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1265758 With Love Meghan Netflix images Mindy Kaling With Love Meghan Netflix images shortbread With Love Meghan Netflix images pantry With Love Meghan Netflix images (7)_w1500 With Love Meghan Netflix images crepes with berry preserve With Love Meghan Netflix images foral arranging With Love Meghan Netflix images sandwiches homebeautiful-1265758
Dream Home: One Year Later – Who’s Living the Dream and Who’s Moving On? https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/dream-home-contestants-where-are-they-now/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 05:17:04 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1265319 One's selling and another has joined Three Birds Renovations – here's who.

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The Channel 7 series Dream Home was the unexpected hit that had the nation hooked. Launched on 26 May 2024, its blend of high-stakes renos and heartfelt backstories proved irresistible.

So, will Dream Home return in 2025? Not just yet. Seven has hit pause, but a spokesperson confirmed the show “remains part of Seven’s content lineup” and that its debut season was “the number one new format of 2024”. Translation: expect it back… eventually.

Meanwhile, fan-favourite host Dr Chris Brown isn’t sitting still – he’s fronting the new animal adventure series Once In A Lifetime. And what about the contestants?

Dream Home contestants: Where are they now?

One year on, we checked in with the teams to see how life has changed since their time in the Dream Home spotlight. Spoiler alert: one of them is already selling up.

Winners: Rhys & Liam (Qld)

The ‘tradie brothers’ delivered a masterclass in hands-on renovating. Liam’s Queenslander got a stunning Scandi-coastal makeover – landscaping, pool, the works. But by February 2025, he and partner Shennyn had decided to move on. “We’ve loved living in this home, but we’re excited to be doing a renovation project together,” says Shennyn.

Liam and Rhys from Dream Home with Dr Chris Brown
Liam and his partner Shennyn (centre) have decided to sell their home, which was renovated on Dream Home, hosted by Dr Chris Brown. (Image: Instagram via @liamalmond)

Rhys, meanwhile, pocketed the $100k mortgage prize and has been flat out with his reno business, balancing work with family life alongside partner Cassandra and their two little ones.

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home Landscaping with fire pit
The backyard of Liam’s place will be a boon for any buyer. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

2nd Place: Lara & Peter (NSW)

With their red-brick Belrose home transformed into a Mediterranean oasis, for Lara Dream Home was a career game-changer. She landed a role with Three Birds Renovations. “Dream Home got me my dream job,” she says.

Lara from Dream Home with the Three Birds Renovations team
Lara with the Three Birds Renovations team, who she’s now working with in customer experience. (Image: Instagram via @larabirdy)

Pete, meanwhile, is “back to the daily grind” as a marine electrician, but the couple are still loving their home. They’re also grateful Lara’s mum got to see the finished result before she passed away in August 2024. “She was an interior decorator and was so impressed by what we’d achieved,” says Lara.

Lara and Peter Dream Home team with Dr Chris Brown outside their place
Lara and Peter’s Belrose house got a fresh Mediterranean makeover. (Image: Instagram via @larabirdy)

3rd Place: Elle & Taeler (Vic)

Elle received a warm timber-clad makeover for the Watsonia home she lives in with partner Brody. The couple got engaged soon after filming wrapped and are set to marry in March 2025. “They’re enjoying their dream home,” shares her sister, Taeler.

Elle and Taeler get emotional seeing Elle's home for the first time
Sisters Taeler and Elle (centre) were blown away by the transformation of Elle’s house. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

As for Taeler, her reno business, FTLO Design, has boomed. She’s worked with Koala, Kip & Co and Beacon Lighting, completed five projects, and is now on the hunt for the next one. “I want to develop homes in a sustainability-conscious way,” she says.

Elle's home exterior is cladded in timber
Elle’s Watsonia home after the finished facade was revealed. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

4th Place: Jacinta & Jordan (NSW)

Their Punchbowl home went from a modest structure to a luxe new build. “We still feel so blessed,” says Jacinta. “Entertaining has become our favourite thing.”

Jacinta and Jordan Dream Home contestants in front of their new home
Jacinta and Jordan outside their new home, built on Dream Home. (Image: Instagram via @jordanandjacinta)

But there’s more on their reno to-do list – landscaping is next. “It’s like being back on the show, just without the crazy deadlines!” says Jacinta. With baby number three (a boy!) on the way, they’re also planning an extra bedroom upstairs.

Jacinta and Jordan Punchbowl home exterior
The new facade suits the couple’s glam style. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

5th Place: Hannah & Jonny (Qld)

Renovating on Dream Home was a wild ride. “We’d done a bit, but nothing like this,” says Hannah. Still, they wouldn’t change a thing. “We can’t imagine life without this home.”

Dream Home team Hannah and Jonny in their new kitchen
Hannah and Jonny are still thrilled with their home and plan to marry here in April 2025. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

Now they’re racing to finish their backyard – including a plunge pool and outdoor kitchen – before their April 2025 wedding, which they’re hosting at home. “Matching a ‘dream home’ aesthetic on a budget is tough,” admits Hannah. We’re confident they’ll pull it off.

Hannah and Jonny's Dream Home facade by Rhys and Liam
The exterior of Hannah and Jonny’s home got a fresh coat of white with a salmon front door. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

6th Place: Brad & Mel (Vic)

The ‘reno rookies’ went from underdogs to fan favourites, thanks to their heart and Brad Pinto’s ’90s boy band past (shoutout to CDB fans). Their Northcote cottage gained a second storey, and their four kids now have all the space they need.

Dream Home team Brad and Mel are excited to see their new home
It was an emotional journey on Dream Home for parents Brad and Mel. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

They’re still in touch with the other contestants, and Hannah shares that Mel’s kids “absolutely love their rooms”. In the end, that’s what Dream Home was all about – creating spaces that feel like home.

Brad and Mel from Dream Home's new facade is restored with fresh paint and lush landscaping
Their facade got a pretty makeover, with a gorgeous garden. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

Not every contestant is staying in their Dream Home, but one thing’s certain – the experience changed their lives. And while the show might be on ice for now, it’s safe to say Dream Home left its mark.

Now, bring on Season 2 (whenever that may be).

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1265319 Liam and Rhys from Dream Home with Dr Chris Brown Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Landscaping Lara from Dream Home with the Three Birds Renovations team Lara and Peter Dream Home Dr Chris Brown Dream Home Taeler and Elle Watsonia house Dream Home Taeler and Elle Watsonia house exterior Jacinta and Jordan Dream Home contestants Jacinta and Jordan Punchbowl home exterior Dream Home Hannah and Jonny Kitchen Hannah and Jonny’s Dream Home facade by Rhys and Liam Dream Home_Brad and Mel Brad and Mel Dream Home room reveal exterior by Taeler and Elle homebeautiful-1265319
This is what your home decor says about your personality https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/what-your-home-decor-says-about-your-personality/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:43:07 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1265220 It reveals more than you might think.

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The way we choose to decorate our homes can reveal more about us than you might realise. Over the years, studies has found that our home decor choices can be a direct reflection of our personalities, with our overflowing bookcases, art collections and home office set-ups revealing a surprising amount about our levels of openness, empathy and even extroversion.

Photos and family heirlooms

gallery wall
(Photography: Chris Warnes)

If you’re someone who has plenty of family photos and personal heirlooms displayed around your home, then the studies agree that you’re likely quite a sentimental person. For many people, personal photos and items also affirm their sense of self, giving us a stronger confidence in who we are and where we come from.

Books

Living room with bookshelves, blue-patterned sofa, armchair, and table with white flowers and lamp.
(Photography: Eleanor Byrne)

While it might be obvious that someone who owns a lot of books has an interest in literature and learning, the type of books that you own reveal even more about our personality traits. According to a University of Toronto study, people who read a lot of fiction tend to have higher levels of empathy than those who don’t.

Art

(Photographer: Hannah Puechmarin)

Art is also something that can give us a clue into people’s personality traits. During an interview on NPR, Dr Sam Gosling, author of Snoop: What Your Stuff Says About You, explained that having original artworks on your walls “tends to be one of the big clues” that you might be quite an ‘open’ or ‘broadminded’ person. It’s likely that this is because having an interest in art and culture requires a relative level of curiosity, which lends itself to open-mindedness.

A home office

(Photographer: Nicki Dobrzynski)

In the working from home era, most of us have some sort of office space in our abode. If you’re constantly feeling guilty about not keeping your desk tidy, then you will be pleased to hear that a messy desk actually indicates a higher level of creativity, according to a University of Minnesota study.

The amount of personal items you have in the workspace also gives us a clue into whether you prefer keeping your work self seperate from your home life, according to Dr Gosling. Those who decorate their desks, however, may be more extroverted than those who don’t — especially if they are decorating their desk in the workplace.

“Extroverts, they tend to decorate their spaces more,” explains Dr Gosling on NPR. “They tend to make them inviting places. They want people to come in. Extroverts just like people. And they are trying to lure you into their office so you’ll come in and yack with them rather than work.”

Maximalist or minimalist

A bright yellow living room with a vase of sunflowers and green sofa.
(Photography: Hannah Puechmarin / Styling: Hayley Jenkin)

Maximalist decor tends to be quite eclectic, and studies show that people who gravitate towards this type of decor generally possess a high degree of openness. In contrast, the same study found that people who like their spaces neat, tidy and orderly are likely to be more conscientious.

While that might not be particularly surprising, a seperate study found that tidier spaces have also been associated with more generosity. In a similar way, people who have a high level of agreeableness have also been found to be less materialistic than those who have lower agreeableness, which might suggest minimalists tend to be more agreeable than maximalists.

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1265220 gallery wall Living room with bookshelves, blue-patterned sofa, armchair, and table with white flowers and lamp. LIVING AREA The sense of intimacy is enhanced with a cluster of armchairs in Anna Spiro Textiles 'Cartouche' fabric and a pair of sofas in her 'Camona' textile range, sprinkled with cushions in Kettlewell Collection's 'Aiko' fabric (contact <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://annaspirodesign.com.au/">Anna Spiro Design</a>). A gold coffee table Kate has owned for years was reimagined in Dulux Blue Lobelia and collected <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/collection/artists/blackman-charles/">Charles Blackman</a> artworks were spread across walls and shelves.</p> <p><strong>THE SNUG</strong> Just off the kitchen, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homestolove.com.au/reading-room-design-ideas-21385" rel="noopener">the snug</a> is a favourite room for the family to gather, read and watch television. The wall colour is <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.dulux.com.au/colours/details/281666_243685">Dulux Carved Pumpkin</a>, which Sally describes as a "leap of faith". "It was nice to be pushed out of our comfort zone and try something we wouldn't have thought of," she says. "That's the beauty of working with professionals you trust." The wallpaper is Ottoline 'Sporty Stripes' in Saffron (try Elliott Clarke), while the large 'Matisse' lamp is from <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.florabelle.com.au/">Florabelle Lighting</a> and the sofa was custom made by Ivy + Piper, as were the vibrant cushions.</p> <p><em>Photographer: Nicki Dobrzynski</em></p> maximalist-queenslander-renovation-bright-living-room-sofa homebeautiful-1265220
8 essentials to buy for your new puppy https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/essentials-to-buy-for-new-puppy/ Sun, 02 Mar 2025 23:40:30 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1264332 Our favourite must-haves that deserve a spot in your stylish home.

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Finally, you’ve made all of your family’s dreams come true by welcoming a bundle of fluffy love into your home. That tiny wagging tail, those big, adoring eyes — it’s pure joy! But as you’re quickly discovering, there are also a bunch of new puppy essentials you need in the home to help manage the happiness that comes with endless zoomies, curious little teeth exploring everything in sight and the occasional (okay, frequent) mess.

Bringing home a puppy is an adventure filled with snuggles, playtime and a few surprises along the way. To make life smoother — for both you and your new four-legged friend — you’ll need the right gear. From cosy bedding to engaging toys, nourishing food to must-have grooming gadgets, these puppy-friendly picks will help you set up your newest family member for a happy, healthy start.

We know because we asked HB social media producer Emily Murray, who’s just welcomed the divine Luna into her home and it’s been a big change to the household! “We bought our labrador Lola way back in 2012, so it’s been a long time since we’d owned a puppy,” says Emily. “I think you just forget what it’s like having a tiny ball of constant energy running under your feet but I wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s brought so much joy and happiness to our household that’s been missing since Lola’s passing.”  

Below you’ll find everything Emily recommends – from dog beds that protect your sofa to stylish snack storage – to keep tails wagging and little paws out of trouble!

8 essentials to buy for a new puppy

01

Maisy corduroy fold-out pet bed in Biscuit

$79.99, Adairs

Best for: Saving the sofa

This bed can go anywhere in the home floor, bed, sofa or back deck — to provide a low-key enclosure in which to snuggle and get to know your new best friend. We love the plush corduroy fabric that looks gorgeous while forming a safety zone around the little darling and catching any spills in the process. Great for travelling – rotate 180° and it will help keep the pup in place on a car seat, then carry inside wherever you go.

Colours: Biscuit, Tan, Black, Beige and Forest.

Materials: Polyester.

Key features:

  • Dimensions: H50 x W100cm
  • Machine washable
  • Soft pillow bumper

02

Reusable puppy pads, 2 pack

$15, Target

Best for: Peace of mind

Especially when your puppy is settling into a new routine, accidents happen. So, to keep things fresh while puppy training, perhaps top of the list of new puppy essentials are these washable pads – a must-have that helps you save the planet and your carpet.

Colours: Blue and Grey.

Materials: Polyester, Viscose lining.

Key features:

  • Dimensions: L90 x W75cm
  • Highly absorbent
  • Odour controlling

03

Glass and silicone jar with scoop

$10, Target

Best for: Easy feeding

With a non-slip silicone base, this is a great jar and stylish enough to line up on display alongside other laundry or pantry essentials. Fill with dry food for your puppy and you’ll always know when you need a refill. A wide mouth, easy-to-turn lid and handy scoop mean small hands can help with feeding too.

Colours: White.

Materials: Soda lime glass, silicone base, polypropylene lid.

Key features:

  • Dimensions: H24.4 x W17.7cm
  • Highly absorbent
  • Odour controlling

04

8-panel foldable pet playpen

$69.95, Temple & Webster

Best for: Safety and quiet time

To avoid over-stimulation on all counts, a playpen can be a game changer for pet parents. Positioned in a safe place, away from tempting cords and shoes to chew, an enclosure like this keeps puppy secure as you move around the house and also makes puppy training easier.

Colours: Black.

Materials: Powder coated steel.

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 3 sizes: Small – H62 x W155 x D155cm | Medium – H77 x W155 x D155cm | Large – H92 x W155 x D155cm
  • Foldable, lightweight, rust-resistent
  • Arrange in different shapes
  • Slide-bolt latch

05

Bondi Wash dog essentials pack

$50, David Jones

Best for: Sweet-smelling smooches

Made in Australia from all natural materials, this is perfect for travelling. It is also a lovely gift to give a new pet owner or a cheeky present to wrap and tease a surprise to the would-be new pet parents.

Colours: Black.

Key features:

  • Includes: Dry dog wash + mini dog wash + mini kennel spray + wash cloth + travel bag
  • Portable carry pouch
  • Natural ingredients

06

Puppy harness with leash

$31.95, Amazon

Best for: Well turned-out walkies

More than just a fashion statement, a soft harness helps keep a new dog comfortable on walks without putting pressure on their little throat. Fitted well, the step-in design allows control with an even distribution of pressure across their chest and shoulders and can help discourage pulling on a leash.

Colours: Khaki, Coral Pink, Deep Black, Deep Purple, Deep Red, Emerald, Hot Pink, Lavender, Light Green, Sky Blue.

Material: Breathable mesh.

Sizes: XXS, XS, Small, Medium, Large.

Key features:

  • Measure puppy’s neck and chest to establish the required size
  • Padding for comfort
  • Breathable mesh fabric
  • Easy velcro closure
  • No-pull harness buckle

07

Harry Barker Farmhouse Check collar

$20.96 (usually $29.95), David Jones

Best for: Fashion fun

Okay, this is where the fun starts. Add a pop of personality to your puppy’s wardrobe with this playful checked collar. We’ve never met a gingham we didn’t like and we LOVE finding new places to place this timeless pattern. Your pup deserves the best – now they can strut their stuff in style!

Colours: Black, Tan.

Material: 100% certified recycled plastic.

Sizes: Small, Medium.

Key features:

  • Strong, lightweight
  • Double-coated nickel steel hardware
  • Quick-release buckle
  • Machine washable
  • No-pull harness buckle

08

Dog by Dr Lisa lick mat

$17, David Jones

Best for: Stationary snacks

Possibly the best invention ever, a lick mat keeps your dog in place while you groom or tend to them. With suction cups on one side to keep hold on a hard surface (even the wall or size of the sink works!), squish their favourite soft snack onto the grid and they’ll spend ages licking and exploring while you get the job done.

Colours: Blush, Khaki.

Material: Silicon.

Sizes: Small, Medium.

Key features:

  • Dishwasher safe
  • Suction base to keep in place
  • Non-toxic, food-grade silicone

The post 8 essentials to buy for your new puppy appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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How to fold a fitted sheet: Step-by-step instructions https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/how-to-fold-a-fitted-sheet-step-by-step-instructions/ Fri, 28 Feb 2025 07:05:30 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1264888 It's simple when you know how.

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Whether or not you consider folding a fitted sheet a life skill worth mastering, it’s a question that comes up time and again. So, the team at Home Beautiful is here to settle it once and for all with step-by-step instructions for how to fold a fitted sheet to perfection every time.

Surprisingly, there’s more than one way to do it—and everyone has their own method. You do you! But if you’re still mystified by those elastic edges, our easy guide will have you folding like a pro in no time. Once you’ve nailed it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this satisfying skill.

Coastal style bedroom
(Credit: Photo: Simon Whitbread / Styling: Corina Koch)

The best part? Neatly-folded fitted sheets take up less room and make it easier to keep your sheet sets together to keep a beautifully organised linen cupboard. Some people even store their sheet sets inside one of the pillowcases to keep things super tidy, or strapped together with these gorgeous bands.

Coastal Hamptons bedroom
(Photography: Simon Whitbread | Styling: Heliconia)

Here’s how to fold a fitted sheet:

  1. Turn your sheet inside out and hold lengthways
  2. Place one hand in each corner
  3. Clap your hands together and slip one top corner over the other
  4. While still holding first corners, run your other hand down to another corner
  5. Pull it up and slip the first two corners over
  6. Run your hand down to the final corner and repeat. You should now be holding all four corners together
  7. Shake out the wrinkles and smooth the sheet onto a flat surface
  8. Keeping your corners together, fold your sheet into thirds or quarters – whichever your prefer

The trick is to smooth as you go and tuck in any uneven edges

If you’re wondering how hotels get their sheets looking so crisp, they iron them! Most large hotels have in-house laundry facilities to wash, dry, and iron all their linens. If you want that five-star effect on your own sheets, a quick once-over with a steam iron before you store them away can help keep them beautifully smooth.

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1264888 Coastal style bedroom Coastal Hamptons bedroom Why bamboo sheets are a godsend for hot sleepers A buyer’s guide to breathable linen sheets that will last the distance 6 soft Egyptian cotton sheets that will elevate your bedroom instantly From cotton to silk: Which material makes the best bed sheets? The best quality sheets that are worth the investment homebeautiful-1264888
Super-charge your energy savings with this revolutionary technology https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/tesla-energy-saving-technology/ Fri, 28 Feb 2025 03:55:21 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1264994 Storing solar energy just got smarter.

The post Super-charge your energy savings with this revolutionary technology appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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In a climate where merely doing your weekly recycling and bringing reuseable bags to the supermarket is barely touching the tip of the iceberg, it’s up to all Aussies to look at how they can minimise their household footprint on the environment. Thankfully there are new and ever-evolving technologies including solar panels and home batteries, like Tesla Powerwall 3, that are revolutionising home energy, helping you save money and protecting your home from outages, while supporting the environment.

Currently more than 30 per cent of Australian households have embraced solar or ‘clean’ energy to power their homes and are enjoying multiple benefits such as reducing their reliance on the grid.

By pairing solar with Powerwall 3 and using clean, renewable energy to power your home, you can reduce your monthly electricity bill and could increase the value of your property.

 You may even be eligible to tax benefits and rebates on your initial outlay for solar panels or home batteries depending on which state you live in.

How Powerwall 3 can help you power up

Similar to Superman when he recharges his super-powers by flying close to the sun, Tesla’s Powerwall 3 home battery has been optimised to harness and store excess solar energy generated by your solar panels for use at night or during outages when the grid isn’t available.

The latest version of Powerwall now incorporates a built-in solar inverter, designed to efficiently convert the solar energy into stored electricity to power your home.

When installing solar and a home battery like, Powerwall 3, you can schedule appliances to run during the day with solar energy that’s being generated when you’re not at home. A home battery allows stored energy to be used for other appliances at night or at times of high demand when solar panels are not generating energy, which helps you save on electricity bills.  

Using your own stored electricity is a great solution for those endeavouring to be more money conscious. It reduces your reliance on the grid where you’re at the mercy of lower feed in tariffs during the day and high electricity rates during peak periods. You can even program your Powerwall to only use stored energy when prices spike.

Powerwall can also connect to Virtual Power Plants (VPP)- a network of homes with batteries that support the grid with clean renewable energy. It allows you to maximise your energy savings through flexible Time-of-Use rates. By connecting to a VPP, your Powerwall will ensure your home is powered by the most cost-effective energy source. This helps to reduce your energy bill while increasing access to cleaner renewable energy throughout your community – something you wouldn’t typically access without a home battery.

Tesla Powerwall
The latest version of Powerwall now incorporates a built-in inverter, designed to efficiently convert the solar energy into stored electricity to power your home. (Credit: Supplied)

Save it for a rainy day

As we all know, Australia is no stranger to extreme weather conditions and harsh environments. Designed to thrive in such unpredictable climates, Powerwall 3 continues to run smoothly in cold temperatures, high humidity, and can even withstand submersion in water of up to 0.6 metres.

Undoubtedly the time you need stored energy most, is during wild weather when the grid’s capacity is compromised, and power outages occur. When severe weather looms, Storm Watch automatically charges your Powerwall 3 to its maximum capacity, ensuring your home is prepared for any disruption. Should an outage occur, Powerwall will ensure your home remains connected and switches your home to stored energy, offering peace of mind when you need it most.

Tesla Powerwall 3
With Powerwall 3, your home is ready for whatever the weather brings. (Credit: Supplied)

Power that pays

Powerwall 3 presents an intelligent, cost-efficient solution for comprehensive whole-home backup, all within a single unit—making it an accessible choice for energy security. With its self-contained design, featuring an integrated solar inverter, it maximises efficiency by reducing the need for extra components and enabling quicker and cost-effective installations. This streamlined approach not only makes multi-unit configurations more budget-friendly, but also paves the way for simpler, more cost-effective system expansions down the line.

In areas where Virtual Power Plants are available, Powerwall 3 can send surplus energy back to the community when demand peaks or when outages are imminent. This helps keep the grid running sustainably while potentially earning you credits and discounts for the energy you share.

By embracing an energy ecosystem for your home, you can enjoy energy independence, lower electricity bills, and outage protection with solar and Powerwall 3. Tesla has launched Live on Sunshine, an opportunity for eligible residents in Australia to enter for a chance to win an entire clean energy ecosystem, including a Powerwall 3, Wall Connector and third-party solar system and experience a 10-day test drive with a Tesla vehicle.

The post Super-charge your energy savings with this revolutionary technology appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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5 of the best stays in Daylesford for an idyllic country escape https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/best-daylesford-accomodation/ Wed, 26 Feb 2025 02:52:18 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1264881 There are many reasons to visit Daylesford this year.

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Daylesford might be Australia’s favourite country town. Located just an hour and a half from Melbourne, Daylesford is in the heart of Victoria’s spa country with access to some of the region’s best spas and hot springs. The township itself is notably pretty, with its streets lined with characterful cottages, cute boutiques and cosy cafes. If that wasn’t enough, the town has also been named one of the world’s most welcoming cities by Booking.com and hosts the longest-running Country Queer Pride event in Australia.

It’s hardly surprising then that The Block has chosen Daylesford as its 2025 location. The new season will see The Block contestants embrace sustainable design and build a collection of carbon-neutral homes that blend into Daylesford’s unique landscape.

So, whether you’re travelling to Daylesford for a romantic couples weekend or hoping to catch a sneak peek of the upcoming The Block season, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this sweet little town.

Things to do in Daylesford

  • Look at art in the historical The Convent Gallery
  • Get in touch with nature at Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens
  • See Picnic At Hanging Rock’s famous Hanging Rock
  • Unwind at one of the region’s spas and hot springs
  • Explore Vincent Street’s sweet shops, bars and cafes

The best accomodation in Daylesford

Daylesford accomodation.

01

Lake Daylesford Cottage

Best for: families

Set right on the lake, this sunny cottage boasts cosy interiors, an open fireplace and a large deck with water views. The yellow kitchen is particularly sweet and there’s plenty of space for the whole family to spread out and unwind.

Key features:

  • Water views
  • Mature garden with fenced yard
  • Three bedrooms

Book

Daylesford accomodation, The Poets Lodge.

02

Poets Lodge

Best for: walkability

The Poets Lodge is made up of three dreamy cottages, which can be booked individually or together. Located in the centre of town, the accommodation is within walking distance to Daylesford’s main sites, making it ideal for those travelling by train. Each of the cottages has its own unique charm, but ‘The Main House’ is particularly impressive with its 12-seater dining table in the library.

Key features:

  • Located in the centre of town
  • Group of cottages
  • Character features

Book

Daylesford hotels.

03

Hotel Bellinzona 

Best for: solo travellers

Solo travellers will appreciate the comforts of Hotel Bellinzona, which is located 4km away from the main Daylesford township in Hepburn Springs. Just a short stroll from the Hepburn Springs Bathhouse, the hotel’s luxuriously decorated rooms, heated pool and multiple on-site bars and restaurants are the perfect place to unwind after spending the day at the spa.

Key features:

  • Hotel
  • On-site bars and restaurants
  • Located in Hepburn Springs

Book

Daylesford accomodation.

04

Headland cottage

Best for: couples

With its steep gable roof, wrap-around porch and white balustrade, this sweet little 1860s cottage is like something out of a storybook. Ideal for couples, the one-bedroom home boasts romantic French doors and luxurious bed linens, while the rest of the interiors are just as characterful with original leadlight windows and a pretty country-style kitchen.

Key features:

  • Characterful interiors
  • Pretty porch
  • 11-minute walk to Lake Daylesford
Daylesford accomodation.

05

The White House Daylesford

Best for: a group of friends

Design lovers will appreciate the elegant interiors of The White House, which have been lovingly curated by interior decorator Lynda Gardener. The property is an 1850s original miners cottage with plenty of heritage features, including claw-foot baths, vaulted ceilings and French doors. With three bedrooms, there’s space for up to three couples, making it the perfect option for a group holiday.

What we love about it:

  • Decorated by Lynda Gardener
  • 12-minute walk from Lake Daylesford
  • Suitable for groups of friends

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Inside the luxurious Koh Samui hotel where ‘The White Lotus’ season three was filmed https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/white-lotus-season-3-hotel-thailand-koh-samui/ Tue, 25 Feb 2025 03:53:45 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1264809 Where the real one per cent holiday.

The post Inside the luxurious Koh Samui hotel where ‘The White Lotus’ season three was filmed appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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The third season of The White Lotus is set on Thailand’s tropical island paradise of Koh Samui. The island is known for its verdant jungle, white sandy beaches and collection of luxurious holiday resorts — including the Four Seasons Resort, which stars as the glamourous White Lotus Resort in the show.

‘The White Lotus’ season three filming locations

The White Lotus filming locations.
(Credit: HBO)
  • The White Lotus hotel: The Four Seasons Koh Samui
  • The White Lotus hotel bar: Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort
  • The White Lotus hotel spa: Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort
  • The buddhist monastery: Wat Pu Khao Thong

Inside the hotel where the third season of The White Lotus was filmed

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.
The view over The Gulf of Siam. (Credit: Four Seasons Resort)

Located on the north-western tip of Koh Samui overlooking the Gulf of Siam, the resort is set on 40 acres of a former coconut plantation. As seen in the show, the accommodation is ultra-luxurious, with many of the 71 villas containing multiple bedrooms, butlers and private infinity pools.

Four Seasons resort Koh Samui
Inside one of the bedrooms at the Four Seasons Resort in Koh Samui. (Credit: Four Seasons Resort)

Designed by architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, the resort’s design takes its inspiration from the architecture of Southern Thailand and its use of wood, thatched roofs and open spaces. One of the resort’s most recognisable design features are its monkey statues — a symbol that’s also woven throughout The White Lotus series.

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui restaurant
One of the resort’s restaurants. (Credit: Four Seasons Resort) (Credit: Four Seasons Resort )

White Lotus viewers will also recognise the resort’s main pool, with its luxurious day beds and enviable view over the private beach.

Four Seasons Koh Samui
The main pool at the resort. (Credit: Four Seasons Resort )

If the show has made you think about booking a trip of your own, then the good news is you can stay at the Four Seasons Koh Samui — if, of course, you can afford the nightly rate that starts at nearly $1000 a night.

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
One of the resort’s rooms with a private infinity pool. (Credit: Four Seasons Resort)

For most of us who can’t afford to holiday like the world’s one per cent, filming did take place at two other Thailand hotels. The hotel bar scenes were filmed at the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, the hotel lobby and jewellery store scenes at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, and the hotel spa scenes at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket. With rooms starting from around $350, these resorts still come with a significant price tag for Thailand but are a much more affordable option.

Book The Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui on Luxury Escapes and Booking.com

Book Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort on Booking.com

Book Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort on Luxury Escapes and Booking.com

Book Anantara Mai Khao Phuket on Luxury Escapes and Booking.com

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Love Dream Home? Tradie brother Liam’s Queenslander is for sale https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/dream-home-rhys-and-liam-deception-bay-home/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 01:06:56 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1065865 The home renovated on the series has hit the market.

The post Love Dream Home? Tradie brother Liam’s Queenslander is for sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Tiler Rhys and carpenter Liam were the winning Dream Home team. They walked away with an upgrade for Liam’s dated Queenslander in Deception Bay and Rhys scored the $100k towards his mortgage.

In the brief, Liam asked for a Scandi-coastal feel. Their fellow Dream Home contestants Brad and Mel, Hannah and Jonny (whose home was also completed), and Jacinta and Jordan nailed it.

It’s now valued at $1.6 million according to View.

Liam’s family home, which was renovated on the debut season of Dream Home on Channel 7, is now for sale. The announcement was made in a video shared on social media by real estate agent Ben Hyrapietian from Image Property on February 19, 2025. In the reel, Liam and partner Shennyn shared the reason for putting their Deception Bay property on the market. “We’ve absolutely loved living in this home but we’re really excited to be doing a renovation project together,” Shennyn said. Head to the real estate listing for all the details.

News flash

Here’s a look inside and some thoughts from Dream Home judges Lana Taylor, Rosie Morley and Simon Cohen…

Dream Home team Rhys and Liam smiling side by side in Liam's new kitchen.
The tradie brothers and dads are chuffed with Liam’s renovated home. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

“It’s just so coastal and fresh,” said Simon of the new facade by Hannah and Jonny. “Stone and timber is the perfect combination.” There’s even a swing for Liam’s daughter Remi to play on.

Rhys and Liam's Deception Bay Dream Home facade by Hannah and Jonny
Warm tones and crazy paving add street appeal to Liam’s renovated home. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

Working with a generous entrance proved a challenge for Jacinta and Jordan, who didn’t seem to know what to do with it. “It looks messy and cluttered,” said Rosie of the styling in the arch. She also wished they’d built something larger in the centre of the space.

Rhys and Liam's Deception Bay Dream Home entrance by Jacinta and Jordan
The entrance is large, but the styling didn’t match the proportions. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

The kitchen was an ambitious room to attempt, but Hannah and Jonny made it look effortless. “It’s got a great feel, everything about it,” said Rosie.
The warmth of the benchtop and splashback went down well.

Rhys and Liam's dream kitchen with timber clad island bench base, wooden stools and simple white cabinetry.
Sometimes simple is a fail, but it was a ‘nail’ in this kitchen. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

The butler’s pantry by Hannah and Jonny continued the feeling in the kitchen. “It’s simple, stylish and warm – certainly a space I want to hang out in.”

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home butler's pantry with natural coloured bench that's continued up the splashback and white cabinetry with gold handles.
The butler’s pantry was a judge-pleaser. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

The dining room by Brad and Mel benefitted from the natural light flooding in from above, but the compliments stopped there.

The dining room in Liam's home with a beach scene artwork on the wall.
The artwork was considered a bit moody. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

“It’s a lot of timber,” said Lana. “I would love to see a rug under this table to help soften it.” The judges also thought the artwork wasn’t right.

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home open plan dining and living space with a large skylight above.
The dining room included a touch too much timber for the judges. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

While the living room by Jacinta and Jordan had pros such as the colour palette and arch, it wasn’t all positive.

“It feels cramped for a family living room,” said Simon. “It only caters for three people watching TV.”

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home living room with a white couch and array of cushions in pale pink and terracotta with a TV in an arch.
Although lovely, the dining room didn’t quite cater for enough people in the opinion of the judges. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

The main bedroom by Jacinta and Jordan failed to excite the judges. “It’s just a little bit bland for me,” said Lana.

Rhys and Liam's Deception Bay Dream Home Main Bedroom by Jacinta and Jordan
A soft green board along the wall was nice, but not enough for the judges. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

The walk-in robe by Jacinta and Jordan roused emotions, but not the good sort. “That’s absolutely criminal,” said Rosie of the fake rattan that was applied like contact on school books.

Rhys and Liam's Deception Bay Dream Home walk in robe by Jacinta and Jordan
With fake rattan, the walk-in robe was a bit of a let-down. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

Brad and Mel impressed the judges with the layout and restraint of their ensuite design. “I would happily have this bathroom in my house,” said Simon.

Rhys and Liam's Deception Bay Dream Home ensuite by Brad and Mel
The ensuite design by Brad and Mel was unanimously praised by the judges. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

The guest bedroom by Hannah and Jonny underwhelmed with its minimalistic style. The rug was placed in a position where it made the door difficult to open, which also didn’t go down well.

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home guest bedroom with sheer white curtains and terracotta and pale pink bedding.
A ‘just fine’ guest bedroom wasn’t quite cutting it. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

Liam’s daughter got a pink wonderland nursery by Brad and Mel. “I think Remi’s going to love it,” said Rosie.

Rhys and Liam's Deception Bay Dream Home nursery by Brad and Mel
A dusty pink feature wall made for a pretty kid’s bedroom. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

The main bathroom was Brad and Mel’s territory, and while Lana thought it was fabulous, the other judges weren’t so impressed.

“The planning is not great,” said Rosie of the layout, which had the shower positioned open towards the bathroom entry.

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home bathroom with a bathtub on a floating platform, sink in a built-in arch and simple shower with glass partition next to it.
The floating bath didn’t wow the judges like Brad and Mel hoped it would. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

Redeeming themselves after the living room flop, Jacinta and Jordan’s laundry made a good impression with its practical layout (including a clothes steamer appliance) and arch detail.

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home laundry with natural coloured benchtop, white cabinetry and gold handles and arch featured in the wall with timber back.
Jacinta and Jordan managed to make an “unspecial room feel special”. (Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

With Liam working as a carpenter, the “tradie’s bathroom” was designed as a place for him to wash off when he first gets in the door. “Tradie bathrooms need to be A++ these days,” said Simon.

Rhys and Liam's Deception Bay Dream Home tradie bathroom by Hannah and Jonny
Beautiful mosaic tiles set the tone for a serene downstairs bathroom. (Image: Dream Home / Channel 7)

As one of the teams in the top three, the brothers landscaped Liam’s backyard. It included a new pool, entertaining area and fire pit.

Rhys and Liam's Dream Home Landscaping with pool and entertaining area
(Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)
Rhys and Liam's Dream Home Landscaping with fire pit
(Image: Dream Home/Channel 7)

Rhys and Liam took out the winning $100k, with Lara and Peter coming second and Taeler and Elle third.

In case you missed any episodes, you can catch up on 7plus or browse all of the Dream Home reveals.

The post Love Dream Home? Tradie brother Liam’s Queenslander is for sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1065865 Dream Home team Rhys and Liam Rhys and Liam’s Deception Bay Dream Home facade by Hannah and Jonny Rhys and Liam’s Deception Bay Dream Home entrance by Jacinta and Jordan Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home kitchen by Hannah and Jonny Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Butler’s Pantry by Hannah and Jonny Dream Home S1 QLD Deception Bay Afters 6 Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Dining Room by Brad and Mel Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home living room by Jacinta and Jordan Rhys and Liam’s Deception Bay Dream Home Main Bedroom by Jacinta and Jordan Rhys and Liam’s Deception Bay Dream Home walk in robe by Jacinta and Jordan Rhys and Liam’s Deception Bay Dream Home ensuite by Brad and Mel Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Guest Bedroom by Hannah and Jonny Rhys and Liam’s Deception Bay Dream Home nursery by Brad and Mel Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Bathroom by Brad and Mel Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Laundry by Jacinta and Jordan Rhys and Liam’s Deception Bay Dream Home tradie bathroom by Hannah and Jonny Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Landscaping Rhys and Liam’s Dream Home Landscaping Brad and Mel's home front with an image of the couple inset Dream Home top three teams Rhys and Liam, Lara and Peter, Taeler and Elle Hannah and Jonny Dream Home homebeautiful-1065865
Uncork the convenience of wine delivery with 7 of the best wine subscriptions https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/entertaining/wine-subscription-australia/ Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:02:03 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1044652 A new oenophilic adventure awaits.

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Gone are the days of fretting over wine selection in crowded stores. With such a vast and varied number of vineyards all over the county, the choices of wine subscription Australia has on offer today have elevated the experience. Enjoy a curated collection of varietals and vintages that encapsulate the essence of luxury living, or simply ensure you have a stocked cellar filled with your favourite tipples any time friends drop in.

From the rich and robust notes of a bold Cabernet Sauvignon to the delicate effervescence of a fine Champagne, there’s a wine subscription service that will send you exactly what your palate is longing for, creating an effortless drinking experience.

How do wine subscriptions work?

Wine subscriptions work by offering a convenient and personalised way for wine enthusiasts to explore a curated selection of wines, all from the comfort of home.

First, you select a wine subscription service that suits your preferences and budget, then you customise your taste profile, choose your delivery window, and then unbox and enjoy. It’s as easy as that.

Can you cancel a wine subscription?

In short, yes, you can cancel your wine subscription. Wine subscription services typically offer flexible membership options, allowing you to manage your subscriptions according to your needs.

Keep in mind, however, that the exact process may vary depending on the wine subscription service you are using.

The best wine subscriptions in Australia

Here, we’ve gathered some of the best wine subscriptions and clubs in Australia to bring the allure of global vineyards right to your doorstep.

01

Regional Wine Plan, Wine Selectors

$206 per month

Experience Australian wine in all its diversity with a Wine Selectors subscription, which can be pre-selected or customised by you, and delivered safely to your door. You’ll also enjoy the benefits of a membership, including detailed tasting notes, priority access to events, exclusive offers and discounts.

02

Experts’ Choice Plus, Virgin Wines

From $119.88 bi-monthly

Expertly chosen wines from $9.99 a bottle makes Virgin Wines’ Experts’ Choice Plus subscriptions excellent value for money. With a range of options including a mixed, white- or red-only case, there’s something for everyone. Delivery occurs every eight weeks.

03

High-scoring Angel Favourites Mix, Naked Wines

From $194.88 per quarter

Naked Wines’ business model operates by cutting out the middle man to deliver customers a 30 per cent saving. With the opportunity to buy wine directly from over 65 winemakers across Australia and New Zealand, the company’s Seasonal Sips wine club is a great way to enjoy savings upon savings. Choose either a mixed dozen, luxe dozen, red dozen, white dozen or a bumper 14 pack to be delivered seasonally.

04

Experts Choice Plus mixed dozen, Laithwaites

$99

Laithwaites’ Expert Choice wine subscription offers two bottles each of six hand-selected wines to enjoy for a great price – from $7.42 a bottle. Choose from reds, whites or a mixed box.

05

The Mofo Club, Vinomofo

$179 per month

Touted as the “original, most awesome wine club on the planet,” Vinomofo offers wines priced at $15 per bottle and provides free shipping. You also have the option to choose from whites, reds or mixed wines, and you can select subscription durations of one, two or three months.

just wines cru membership

06

JW Membership, Just Wines

$30 per month

With Just Wines, you place $30 aside each month to spend whenever you wish. By subscribing, you’ll enjoy the advantages of the lowest prices, free wines, and delivery. You’ll also have the pleasure of drinking premium wines crafted by Australian boutique winemakers, enhancing your wine experience.

07

Daily Delights, The Wine Collective

$155 per quarter

The Wine Collective offers everyday drinking wines ideal for entertaining friends, with bottles hand-selected by expert wine buyers, guaranteeing the best value for subscribers. With a delivery schedule every three months, these crowd-pleasing wines are available as red, white, or mixed dozens.

Please remember to drink responsibly. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline on 1800 250 015 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

The post Uncork the convenience of wine delivery with 7 of the best wine subscriptions appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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The 8 features that will help your home sell in 2025 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/features-that-will-sell-your-home-22784/ Fri, 14 Feb 2025 03:14:06 +0000 https://www.homestolove.com.au/15-features-that-will-sell-your-home-22784 These are the features home buyers are looking for.

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While a clean, organised and well-presented home will always boost sale prospects, other features of the home are more dependent on the wants and needs of buyers.

Just like the COVID-19 years saw a surge in the demand for home offices, these features tend to be a reaction to the world we live in.

So, what are home buyers looking for in 2025? The features impressing them may surprise you.

Home features buyers are looking for in 2025

Comfort

An ensuite with a baby blue vanity, Spanish tiles and freestanding bath.
Modest comforts like a bathtub are ranking high on buyer’s lists. (Photography: Mindi Cooke / Styling: Tahn Scoon)

Whether fuelled by the cost-of-living crisis or the rise of the slow living movement, a recent Domain study found that today’s home buyers are less impressed by luxuries such as pools, saunas and wine cellars, and showing more interest in convenience and more modest creature comforts.

At the top of this list are ensuites, walk-in wardrobes and bathtubs, with the study finding that 62% of Australians believe that a bedroom with an ensuite is a must-have, while 50% rank a walk-in wardrobe as an essential feature.

Bathtubs are also favoured by Australians, with a little more than a third of us (36%) stating that a bathtub is a must-have feature.

Sustainability

This year has also seen an increase in demand for properties with energy-efficient designs and sustainable materials, which 50% of Australian home buyers are now considering crucial features in their home.

One storey over two

There also seems to be an increased preference for single-storey living, with 43% of buyers opting for a single-storey dwelling over a two-storey home.

Indoor-outdoor living

Courtyard with crazy pavers
Indoor-outdoor living is still important to Australians. (Photography: Brigid Arnott | Styling: Lisa Hilton)

It won’t come as a surprise that Australians are still drawn to indoor-outdoor living, with 50% of home buyers seeking outdoor entertaining areas and 45% prioritising natural light.

The study also found that 51% of Australians would opt for a garden over high-tech security systems, making it clear that lifestyle features are important for today’s home buyers.

The features that put off buyers

When it comes to the features that put buyers off a sale, a 2021 study from the Rated People’s recent Home Improvement Trends Report found that dirty homes were the number one turn-off.

The study found that a home which presents as unclean would stop almost half (43%) of buyers from inspecting it and of those who did view an unclean property, 61% would put in a lower bid to purchase it. Scuff marks, mould or cracks in walls, bad smells and dirty kitchens were all cited as off-putting to potential buyers.

Other neglected home improvements that turn off the most buyers include:

  • Signs of damp/mould

  • Cracks in walls

  • Mess and clutter inside

  • Scuffed paintwork and marked walls

  • No double glazing

  • Peeling wallpaper

  • Dirty bathroom

  • Rubbish or debris in the front garden/in front of the house

  • Broken or missing fence panels in the garden/outside space

  • Bad smells inside

  • Dirty kitchen

  • Outdated decor

  • Dirty/stained furnishings (carpet, curtains and sofas)

  • Overgrown garden

  • An interior that hasn’t been cleaned

  • Broken/damaged windows and fixtures such as kitchen cupboard doors

This means that even if you aren’t planning a renovation, there can be no denying that investing time, energy and, if necessary, cash into presenting a home as clean and tidy is essential before bringing it to market.

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22784 Classic-Brisbane-bungalow-blue-ensuite Courtyard with crazy pavers Crazy pavers add a Mediterranean flair to this leafy courtyard in Sydney. homebeautiful-22784
Homeowners are getting paid to rent out their pools – would you? https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/homeowners-renting-out-pools-swimply/ Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:33:21 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1263750 Genius or just awkard?

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When I first heard about hiring someone’s private pool, my immediate thought was: But why? The idea of lounging in a stranger’s backyard while they’re probably home feels… odd, right?

But the more I thought about it, the more genius it started to sound. Enter Swimply – the Airbnb of pools. Homeowners snap a few pics of their backyard oasis, list details (like whether it’s heated, booze-friendly or pet-allowed), and voilà: you can book a private pool by the hour.

Living in the Blue Mountains, where beaches are far and public pools are… let’s just say less-than-luxurious, I can see the appeal. A quick search revealed a listing near my house: a “stunning infinity pool” with jaw-dropping valley views. For $58.50 an hour, it comes with wi-fi, pool toys and even a fire pit. Want it heated? Just give them some notice.

The reviews are glowing: “Beautiful view and great communication. Sam was very accommodating!” raved one visitor. “Perfect for a fun and relaxing day. The view was the best part,” said another.

A pool area with tropical plants, loungers and white parasols.
We wouldn’t mind an hour or two in this Bangalow home’s lush tropical sanctuary. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

It sounds like a dream gig for pool owners. Some Sydney listings, especially those with killer views, charge up to $800 an hour. I have visions of quitting my job because my pool pays the bills.

But then reality sets in. Random strangers in my backyard? Wet footprints traipsing through my house for bathroom breaks? Awkward encounters with people trying to use my trampoline? Maybe I could rent it out only when I’m not home…

For now, I’m not quite ready to take the plunge. But who knows? If my Swimply side hustle takes off, you might find me poolside – counting cash instead of clocking in.

Magnolia trees surrounding a pool with white loungers.
The poolside area of this modernist home would be a dream to hire. (Photography: Martina Gemmola / Styling: Annalese Hay)

5 private pools for hire

01

Blue Mountains infinity pool, NSW

$65 per hour

A temperature-controlled infinity pool overlooking stunning Mount Portal? Say no more.

02

Northern Beaches zen retreat, NSW

$800 per hour

This Manly pool is surrounded by a vibrant, tropical garden that radiates ‘rich mum’ energy.

03

Coastal dream, Qld

$320 per hour

It describes this pool as being ideal to hire for photo shoots… but doesn’t say you can’t swim in it.

04

Glasshouse pool, Vic

$45 per hour

Set in a glasshouse and this home also has a tennis court, meaning it’s a double yes.

05

Shady oasis in Mount Lawley, WA

$36 per hour

On the lower end of the budget, this cute, compact pool is a steal.

If you don’t feel too awkward to swim in someone else’s backyard (or want to make a buck yourself), head to Swimply.

The post Homeowners are getting paid to rent out their pools – would you? appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1263750 Fowlers Lane, Bangalow Home shoot kwd-mornington-peninsula-wildflower-garden-pool blue-mountains-pool-swimply-67a1a7e4ada88 northern-beaches-pool-swimply-67a1a90e03a1d queensland-pool-swimply-67a1aaa3a443c melbourne-pool-swimply-67a1ab8dd75d7 mount-lawley-wa-pool-swimply-67a1ac687f4e3 homebeautiful-1263750
Love It or List It returns with more dilemmas and dream makeovers https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/where-to-watch-love-it-or-list-it-australia/ Thu, 23 Jan 2025 05:24:48 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1253820 Dream home or dream move?

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Australians love a good renovation and there’s no better topic of conversation than the price of houses. It’s this dinner-party dilemma chat that makes Love It or List It Australia such an appealing and gripping show to watch. What would we do? As we follow the roller-coaster ride of couples deciding on their future home lives, it makes us wonder about our own situation. Should we stay or should we sell?

Enlightening renovations, property searches and all the drama that comes with reworks, buying and selling – there’s much to love about this reality series. But when it comes to getting off the couch and deciding what to do in real life, most of us could do with a little sage advice.

The series has even taken off overseas. Foxtel sold the format on to Portugal, the Netherlands, Germany and Brazil. “It’s been a huge success,” says Neale. “I’ve been dubbed in German. I get people contacting me from all over the world.”

Well, a whole new set of homeowners are about to get help deciding if they should stay or sell as Love It or List It Australia is hitting our screens with a sixth season in 2025.

Is Love It or List It coming back?

Love It or List It Australia 2025 hosts Andrew Winter and Neale Whitaker
Andrew Winter (left) and Neale Whitaker, hosts of Love It or List It Australia. (Image: Foxtel)

Yes, in exciting news Love It or List It Australia is returning, with casting having just commenced. Foxtel and Beyond Productions announced on January 22, 2025 that the Foxtel original series hosted by renowned real-estate expert Andrew Winter and respected design guru Neale Whitaker is going ahead.

In a promotion for the series, the property duo shared the announcement. “Guess what, Love It or List It is coming back and because of that we’re going to need to find some homeowners who need our help,” said Andrew. “If you or your partner have fallen out of love with your home and you’ve got a healthy renovation budget stuffed under the mattress, apply now,” added Neale.

Should you love it or list it?

This Melbourne home went through three stages of renovations that involved building multiple areas, indoors and out. (Credit: Photography: Martina Gemmola / Styling: Annalese Hay)

If the show itself is anything to go by, there is no hard and fast rule on whether you should stay in your current home and renovate it to suit your needs, or find a new dream home. So much depends on the couple. “On a show like Love It or List It, all the couples are different. All homeowners are different,” Neale tells Home Beautiful. “They all had a different set of problems. We had empty nesters for whom the home was now too big because all the kids had moved away. We had young couples who were just starting a family for whom the home was too small. And every problem in between.”

People sell because they dream of something else, says Neale, or they have problems they can’t resolve where they are. On Love It or List It Australia, as is the case in real life, a huge reason people come to sell is because there is something out there they love. “Let’s not forget the beautiful real estate that my colleague Andrew [Winter] showed them, which opened their eyes,” he says.

Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter, hosts on Love It or List It Australia. (Credit: Foxtel)

It sounds “very cynical”, but “in the case of the homeowners who decided to love it and stay, it was often a case of the property not realising the value, the resale value, that they’d hoped it would”, says Neale.

“That was a major influence. Let’s not underestimate the power of finance in all these things. I would say the majority of homeowners who decided to stay and love it, it was because it just wasn’t going to make them the profit that they hoped it would.”

Should you build or renovate right now?

A bathroom makeover is a budget-friendly and approachable way to get a new look without a whole renovation right now. (Credit: Simon Whitbread)

Building costs, interest rates… Isn’t building or renovating too scary right now?

Neale acknowledges building costs are high. “There is definitely an increase. But that can often be offset by the increased value of the resulting home, if you plan to sell it. If you are renovating purely to sell, then just at this precise moment, you’re likely to be selling that property for an awful lot more money than you would have done a couple of years ago.”

If you’re not planning to resell after the renovation, Neale says, “I think it would be prudent to just sit tight for a little bit longer and see what happens with interest rates and the cost of building materials”.

“I think we’re probably going to see a lot of growth around the makeover market, as opposed to the full blown renovation market”

Neale Whitaker

“People are scaling down their renovations. They’re not maybe taking on the full-scale renovations that they were years ago. They’re picking just certain rooms of the house, doing more a makeover than a full blown renovation. Maybe doing a bathroom or two bathrooms, and not doing the kitchen. Whereas a couple of years ago they might have done the kitchen and both bathrooms.”

There are plenty of ways a refurb can add value to your home, and a kitchen renovation is one way many homeowners achieve this. Giving a lacklustre exterior a magic makeover can create a whole new vibe for a home as well.

What are the most popular renovation styles?

The modern farmhouse style house is a popular style of new build or renovation that satisfies the needs of many Australian homeowners. (Credit: James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast)

Australians love a renovation, says Neale. “I genuinely don’t think there’s another country in the world that is as obsessed with renovations as Australia,” he says. But whether Australians are going to renovate or find something new, they’re looking to tick certain boxes to suit their needs. Right now, when it comes to modern homes, Australians are prioritising specific needs.

James Hardie released a design forecast last year that outlined the kinds of houses those people who are planning an extension, renovation or new build in 2024 really wanted. It detailed seven popular, enduring and emerging contemporary home styles in its report. Through an extensive research piece combining advanced AI-driven technology, desktop research and interviews with architects, designers and key industry professionals, James Hardie believes its new Modern Homes Forecast 2024 has decoded the current and future trajectory of home design.

Neale says anyone deciding whether to renovate or find a new home needs to consider their very personal needs. For many Australians, an increase in regional migration and dissatisfaction with city life has fuelled aspiration for a modern farmhouse style house. The large-format design gives people the chance to have multi-generational living, and it accommodates the needs of different age groups under one roof. More of us, as couples on Love It or List It Australia have also found, want a home that caters for hybrid living and working as the modern farmhouse style does.

When should you list your property?

love it or list it neale whitaker's apartment
Neale Whitaker himself decided to list his breathtaking Sydney apartment in 2018 and have a sea change in the country.

Sometimes it’s time to move on. Even Neale has sold houses in the past, deciding to pack up and “list it”, and start fresh somewhere else. In 2018 he put his stunning Sydney apartment in Alexandria on the market, only two years after he bought it. The apartment, which the television host and magazine editor shared with partner David Novak-Piper, was filled with eclectic high-end furnishings, artworks and had a spacious balcony and large windows that filled the various rooms with natural light. So what was not to love?

“It’s very unusual for us to be moving on [from a home] as quickly as this,” Whitaker told Domain. “We have a huge love of the South Coast, particularly the Berry area. We’ve been going back and forth … and suddenly realised, there’s nothing to stop us now from having our main home further out of the city,” he said.

Neale still lives in the South Coast, in the same home. “Whether to stay or sell is such a personal decision,” he tells Home Beautiful. “Some people are never going to sell, they just love their home too much.”

Is Love It or List It staged?

We know what happens to houses when they’re open to the market, but what about our favourite reno shows? Are they staged as well?

Australia’s favourite property duo were reunited once again when Foxtel and Beyond Productions released the highly anticipated fifth season of Love It or List It Australia. It followed the same pleasing format, which follows homeowners across the country who are struggling with whether to renovate and love the home they are in, or to sell up and find a new home somewhere else.

Real estate agent Andrew and interior designer Neale tour the couple’s home before meeting with them, and typically Andrew finds mostly negative things to say about the house while Neale thinks a renovation will transform it. Armed with an understanding of what each couple wants, Andrew is tasked with finding a new home for the couple while keeping location, needs and budget in mind. Neale is briefed on what the couples would like to see in their current house and his budget for the entire project.

Andrew then goes on to find three potential homes for the owners to explore and consider. Meanwhile, Neale works on the reno. The homeowners are then given a tour of their renovated home, while Andrew gives the couple an evaluation of the home’s new market value. Each couple has to decide: will they love it or list it?

While each episode and season follows this format, Love It or List It is not staged, it’s very much a reality show, shining a light on real couples with real problems and real decisions to make.

Love It or List It, the non-Australian version, is now streaming all eight seasons on Binge. You can follow Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp as they go head to head – like our Neale and Andrew – and convince homeowners to either sell their home or refurbish it.

Why do Australians love renovation shows?

Renovation won out for the owners of this Queensland cottage turned light-filled sanctuary.  (Photography: Mindi Cooke / Styling: Tahn Scoon)

It’s a national obsession, says Neale Whitaker. Australians love talking about renovations, they love doing them, they love watching them on television. “Australians love a renovation show,” he says. “We have so much, like The Block, and Selling Houses Australia, like Dream Home and all the shows that have been on over the years. They’re all prime time shows, and many are on free-to-air television.”

“For about 20 years Australians have been fed a diet of this stuff. It’s like a national sport, isn’t it? We are passionate about renovating and we are passionate about sport”

Neale Whitaker

Neale points to what he calls “the Bunnings phenomenon” as a sign of the national obsession. “There is no equivalent to that in the UK, for example. British people do not go to the DIY store on a Saturday morning unless they’ve got something that they need to fix urgently. We go there for pleasure. If you go to Bunnings, the world will be okay. Whatever problem you’ve got, you’ll find something there that will sort it out. It’s like a pharmacy. There will be something to make you feel better at Bunnings,” Neale laughs. “And that’s a uniquely Australian thing.”

Who is the cast on Love It or List It?

Love It or List It 2025 Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter
Neale (left) appears with Andrew Winter, a residential property expert and the television host of Selling Houses Australia. (Image: Foxtel)

Neale appears as host on Love It or List It Australia with Andrew Winter, a residential property expert and host of Selling Houses Australia. Andrew has more than 25 years’ experience in the global property market. The duo bring their unique dynamic to the small screen. While Andrew is a residential property expert who encourages people to list and sell so that they can move into a new home, lifestyle expert Neale helps couples with his design knowledge that comes in handy during renovation.

Where to watch Love It or List It Australia

Watch Love It or List It Australia on Foxtel. All episodes from season one through season five are available to stream on Foxtel in Australia, with season six coming soon.

The streaming service also houses other home renovation favourites such as Selling Houses AustraliaGrand Designs Australia and Pamela’s Garden of Eden.

Stream Love It or List It Australia on Foxtel Now with a 10-day free trial. Subscribe here.

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1253820 Love It or List It Australia 2025 hosts Andrew Winter and Neale Whitaker_RESIZED HB-lanscape-pic-1920×1080-1-1 love it or list it neale whitaker's apartment Love It or List It 2025 Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter_RESIZED homebeautiful-1253820
Where to get flowers delivered to your doorstep https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/best-flower-delivery-australia/ Tue, 21 Jan 2025 07:07:55 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/best-flower-delivery-australia Spread the love no matter the distance.

The post Where to get flowers delivered to your doorstep appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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There’s nothing quite like delighting your loved ones with a big bunch of flowers delivered to their door. Flowers make everyone happy, bringing a pop of colour and a blooming burst of joy into the faces and homes of the women who hold a piece of your heart – whether it’s your Mum, mentor, or significant family in your life. For a bountiful gesture of thanks, joy, celebration or sorrow, it’s safe to say a fresh bouquet, delivered, is a must.

And, if you’ve got plans of waking up to flowers yourself on your birthday, here’s how to *subtly* make this known to whoever may be in the market for finding you the perfect gift… Send them this article; we’ve rounded up the best flower delivery services available in Australia, below.

Mother's Day Breakfast Flowers Dahlias
(Credit: Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Lucy Gough)

The best flower delivery services in Australia 2024

2024’s TOP FLOWER DELIVERY SERVICES

  1. Floraly Blooms  (here’s why)
  2. FloraQueen  (here’s why)
  3. Daily Blooms  (here’s why)

01

Floraly

Nothing says “I love you” more than a bouquet of fragrant flowers. Lucky for you, Floraly’s collection has the best bouquets you’ve been searching for – bouquets that are brimming with a modern take on the traditional bunch.

Key features:

  • Delivery available Australia-wide including metro Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth
  • Flowers arrive in bud, then bloom over the course of 24 to 48 hours

02

FloraQueen

FloraQueen is an international flower delivery service that often offers early bird discounts for those who are super organised. Whether you are on the search for a traditional rosey red bouquet, a potted plant or maybe an assortment of her favourite blooms, FloraQueen is ready to deliver beautiful bunches of flowers.

Key features:

  • No delivery service on Sunday so order for delivery on Saturday 11th May to ensure a timely arrival
  • Same-day deliveries Australia wide Monday to Saturday, place order before 2pm AEST
  • Monday deliveries Australia wide, place order before 2pm AEST on Saturday

03

Daily Blooms

Stylish, seasonal, and signature blooms are guaranteed to bring the love. So, to create that momentous moment in her home, discover the range of floral delights and gift bundles at Daily Blooms.

Key features:

  • Same-day delivery across selected suburbs in NSW when you order before 1:30pm
  • Delivery available across cities in NSW, QLD, VIC, WA and ACT
  • Delivery cost from $16.95

04

Fig & Bloom

Fig & Bloom’s collection is constantly being updated with new and gorgeous bouquet designs and packages ready to go so you can spoil your loved one with ease.

Key features:

  • Delivery available across cities in NSW, QLD, VIC and ACT
  • Order before 1pm for same-day delivery – limited to Sydney orders

05

Petals Florist Network

Love knows no distance, and neither does the delivery service at the Petals Florist Network. With Australia-wide delivery, express your love and adoration with a love-filled bouquet.

Key features:

  • Australia-wide delivery
  • Check website for same-day delivery conditions

06

Bloomeroo

Choose from a luxury bouquet of natives, pretty pink roses – and more – there’s even a “Big Hug” bouquet perfect for sending your love right to their door. Bloomeroo has you sorted for all the warm, fuzzy feels.

Key features:

  • Same-day delivery 7 days a week in Sydney, Wollongong, Central Coast, Melbourne, Geelong, Mornington Peninsula, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Perth and Fremantle. Mon-Sat for Adelaide.
  • Order by 5pm for same-day delivery

07

LVLY

Delivered in a ceramic vase, a lush bouquet will strike the right note to convey your feelings. Choose your flowers, then add choccies, a candle, a bottle of booze, or just a cute and thoughtful message, for a fail-safe choice.

Key features:

  • Same-day delivery available in various cities within NSW, VIC, QLD, WA and SA
  • Next-day delivery available in Canberra, Tasmania, and other cities in Australia

Is it cheaper to buy flowers from a florist?

Sure, you can grab a bunch at the local servo, but a beautiful bouquet created by a professional florist stands alone for quality and impact. Remember it pays to get in early with your order for the best results in value and quality of blooms delivered to your person’s door. Most florists will offer a menu of options to select from and this is usually the best way to get the biggest bang for your bucks. While many florists offer same-day delivery, order early to get ahead of the pack and tick off this generous job to make them smile.

How do you send flowers to someone in Australia?

Sending flowers to your loved ones has been made super accessible with the extensive range of flower delivery services active on the market. Simply select a service that suits your budget and delivery address, then choose a bouquet for your significant other to enjoy. When selecting your preferred service, it is important to consider the time frame you are working in. In most cases, delivery services that offer same-day delivery for orders placed in metropolitan areas may have different arrangements for peak times such as Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day and next-day delivery may be the service available to you.


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1031978 Mother’s Day Breakfast Flowers Dahlias floraly-the-paris-678f46616ef31 Pink-Bloom-bouquet-Flora-Queen daily-blooms-florist-delivery-678f454960989 fig-and-bloom-florence-bouquet-678f46dc90415 Smile-bright-bouquet-Petals bloomeroo-thinking-of-you-678f478ba4e87 Native-Sympathy-Flowers-and-Vase-lvly homebeautiful-1031978
6 dreamy coastal homes currently for sale around Australia https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/coastal-homes-for-sale-around-australia/ Fri, 10 Jan 2025 05:35:15 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1262760 These homes are worth a sea change.

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Many of us dream of owning a coastal home of our own. Whether it’s their proximity to the sea, calming design features or simply the fact we frequent them on holidays, coastal homes comes with the unique ability of getting us to unwind and switch off.

While we might never admit the number of hours we really spend browsing real estate listings for these beautiful beach houses (and no, it doesn’t matter if we can really realistically afford them or not), we do admit that we have developed a good eye for spotting the most impressive ones. Whether it’s an incredible location, romantic character features or renovation potential, we’ve rounded up the most impressive coastal homes currently for sale around Australia.

842 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach, NSW

Coastal home for sale in Palm Beach
realestate.com.au

With wall to wall windows boasting idyllic water views to the charming french doors, stained glass windows, and deep claw foot bath, this lovely property doesn’t just come with an enviable location in the tropical paradise of Palm Beach but also plenty of romantic character as well. We’re certainly dreaming about spending a balmy summer’s evening on that outdoor deck and making use of the cosy fire alcove in the colder months.

See the full listing on realestate.com

1 Irby Boulevard, Sisters Beach, Tas

Coastal home for sale in Tasmania.
realestate.com.au

This tiny beach home is situated on its own wild and beautiful section of Tasmanian coastline. Built in the 1960s, the home has been carefully furnished to create a little beachside haven that has featured in publications including Country Style, Qantas and Homes To Love. Now being sold as a fully furnished property, the tiny home could become your next business venture as a holiday rental or your dream home, for those with an adventurous soul.

See the full listing on realestate.com.

38 Warana Street, Noosa Heads, QLD 

Coastal home for sale in Noosa Heads.
domain.com.au

Just a five minute drive from the beach, this beautifully beach cottage exudes laid-back coastal style with its soaring high ceilings, polished concrete floors, exposed trusses and open-plan living. When you’re not at one of Noosa’s popular beaches, this property also comes with an idyllic pool to cool down in.

See the full listing on Domain.

5 Albert Street, Bronte, NSW

Coastal homes for sale in Bronte.
domain.com.au

Those dreaming of a coastal escape a little closer to the city will fall head over heels for this charming Bronte pad. The renovated two-story home was built in 1920 and retains some desirable character features, including a sunny tessellated tile verandah, stained glass and a Corbelled arch hallway, while boasting modern functionality.

See the full listing on Domain.

17 Brownell Drive, Byron Bay, NSW

Coastal home for sale in Byron Bay
realestate.com.au

Designed by local architect Christine Vadasz, this treehouse-like home is nestled into the tropical headland overlooking Wategos bay. The home’s use of natural materials only add to the unique bohemian charm, while the perfectly positioned deck and its ocean views will likely become the setting of all your social gatherings.

See the full listing on realestate.com.au.

17 Oak Street, Oak Beach, Qld

realestate.com.au

Anyone who’s ever dreamed of escaping to a far-flung isle will find it hard to resist this magical resort-like property nestled between the palm trees in Far North Queensland. With the beach on one side and a pool on the other, the home seems to exist in some sort of watery bliss that unsurprisingly nets around $60,900 per year through Airbnb—if you’re prepared to share it with others.

See the full listing on realestate.com.au

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1262760 coastal-homes-for-sale-right-now (5) coastal-homes-for-sale-right-now (4) coastal-homes-for-sale-right-now (3) coastal-homes-for-sale-right-now (2) coastal-homes-for-sale-right-now (1) coastal-homes-for-sale-right-now homebeautiful-1262760
Top 10 luxe lunch bags to boost your work day wardrobe https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/best-insulated-lunch-bags-to-buy/ Wed, 08 Jan 2025 06:51:41 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/best-insulated-lunch-bags-to-buy Keep your daily snacks stowed in a stylish carryall.

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Bringing your own lunch to work each day not only saves money, it means you’re better placed to make healthier choices in your food intake which, in turn, improves your mood and productivity.

Boost your brain power and your energy levels by staying ahead of the cravings, maintaining portion control and crushing the afternoon slump with clean, crisp and crunchy snacks.

Here are three tips for packing a tempting lunch each day:

  • Plan ahead to have healthy ingredients and/or leftovers ready to go each morning.
  • Keep it interesting – go beyond sandwiches to soup and salads.
  • Include a treat – dried fruit or a small square of dark chocolate makes the vending machine less tempting.

So boost your budget, body and mind with a prepared lunch each day in an insulated lunch bag or lunch box, and shop our top ten picks for the perfect lunch tote:

01

Warm tea cooler bag

$20 (usually $39.99), Surf Stitch

Brighten up your work day with this fun cooler bag from surf brand Roxy – created for women, by women and made from recycled polyester with a generous shoulder strap and measuring H18 x W25 x D14.5cm.

02

Pelli Bags insulated lunch bag in Spanish Villa

$59.95, The Iconic

Lightweight, flexible and easy to sling over your shoulder, this lunch bag has you sorted for busy days with space to fit lunch and snacks, and a nifty handle to carry it. It comes in three colours made of either natural jute or canvas. 

03

SoYoung large linen insulated lunch bag in Sand & Stone

$49.95, Biome

This chic linen design is spacious enough for adult-sized lunches with a removable inner lining for easy cleaning. It comes with a detachable strap for versatility.

04

GetGo medium Bento box in Blue

$29.97 (usuall6 $34.95, Myer

Leak-resistant, durable and stylish, this compartmentalised lunch box is flexible, stylish and practical to fit lunch every day. Just one part of the “GetGo” range, it comes in three shades (Blue, Black or Pink) and there’s also a snack box and insulated container.

05

Piknik cooler bag

$49.99, Kikki.K

A sophisticated lunch bag with wide handles and an open top for easy access. It’s designed to fit the Takeout Lunch Box perfectly. Choose from six shades with an optional personalised monogram.

06

Crimson Haze lunch satchel

$44.95, The Somewhere Co

With a stylish (vegan leather) strap for a hands-free commute, this compact, bright lunch satchel is your new best friend. A strong magnet and velcro closure will keep everything in place right up until lunchtime.

07

Porcelain bowls (700ml & 1500ml) with glass lids in Cloud

$79.95, David Jones

This set of two bowls, one large and one small, are handy if you want to bring a salad to work, with an airtight seal to keep everything fresh, or for leftovers that need to be warmed up. They’re freezer, microwave, oven and dishwasher-safe and also come in Blushed and Mint Gelato shades.

08

Golden Suns insulated lunch bag in Gold

$64.95, The Iconic

Why should kids have all the fun?! This pretty lunch bag is roomy, insulated and perfect for packing your food and snacks for the day. It has a mesh pocket for an ice pack and is small enough to tuck under your arm or stack in the fridge at work.

09

OiOi insulated lunch bag with pocket in Tropical

$75.96 (usually $94.95), Myer

It’s all about the strap for us and this versatile beauty will go anywhere with you and keep your food cool or warm. Wipes clean easily with a damp cloth and has a zip pocket in the lid for your cutlery so you can bypass the work kitchen altogether.

10

Yeti Daytrip packable lunch bag

$298.92, Amazon

When you’re serious about lunch, you need an insulated cooler that won’t let you down. Yeti’s ‘Daytrip’ lunch bag is made using coldcell flex insulation, meaning it keeps hot things hot, and cold things cold. Available in 23 colourways, you can adjust the size of the bag to accommodate everything from a light snack to a three-course lunch. Once break time is over, all you need to do is fold it flat and off you go.

The post Top 10 luxe lunch bags to boost your work day wardrobe appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1024721 Warm-tea-cooler-bag Cross-the-Sea-Canvas-Cross-Body-Insulated-Lunch-Bag-in-Spanish-Villa SoYoung-Large-Linen-Insulated-Lunch-Bag-Lunch-Poche-in-Sand-Stone GetGo-medium-Bento-box-in-Blue Piknik-cooler-bag Crimson-Haze-lunch-satchel Frank-Green-Porcelain-Bowls-With-Glass-Lids-700ml-1500ml-in-Mint-Cloud-David-Jones Golden-Suns-lunch-bag-in-Gold OiOi-midi-insultated-lunch-bag-in-Tropical yet-daytrip-packable-lunch-bag-amazon homebeautiful-1024721
5 New Year’s resolutions to set for a happier home in 2025  https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/home-new-years-resolutions/ Tue, 31 Dec 2024 01:18:41 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1262343 New year, new home.

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New Year’s resolutions can help us enter the new year with more clarity and intention. When it comes to our homes, setting intentions for the year ahead provides us with an opportunity to reflect on how we’re currently living and what we would like to change. Whether its finally figuring out a cleaning routine that works for your household or simply trying to enjoy your space more in the new year, we all have different goals that we would like to achieve in our homes.

If you need some inspiration then we have come up with five New Year’s home resolutions that will make your life at home more enjoyable in 2025.

5 home resolutions to make in 2025

1. Stop following microtrends

Photographer: Abbie Melle

If you’re an avid decorator then you might have fallen prey to one or two of the many microtrends circulating online. These trends, which can be identified by their niche label and fleeting popularity, convince us to buy things we don’t need (and in many cases, even like). Whether the coquette-core aesthetic lead you down a rabbithole of pink frilly bedspreads that now repulse you or the cottagecore trend left you with so many glass jars your kitchen now looks like a medieval apothecary, it’s time to take a different approach in 2025.

Rather than letting the rise of fast decor push you into overconsumption, take some time to identify a style that feels right to you and slow down your homeware purchases. A good way to slow down your consumption is to give yourself a few weeks breathing space for buying something that you like. During this time, you might realise that you don’t actually need another patterened lampshade and the money might be better spent on a new kitchen appliance. You might also decide to create a wishlist of items you would like for your home and slowly purchase good quality versions of these items throughout the year.

2. Simplify your home

A neutral kitchen with stone benchtops and shaker cabinets.
(Credit: Photography: Ryan Linnegar / Styling: Holly Irvine)

If any part of your home is feeling overwhelming—whether its your decor or cleaning routine—then that might be a good indicator that you need to start simplifying your space. This might look like committing to slowly decluttering your home over the year and dedicating some time each week to going through those rooms, drawers and cupboards that you never get to in your normal cleaning routine. It might also look like swapping your cupboard full of cleaning products for a simple vinegar, bicarb soda and lemon combination, or adopting a one-in-one-out approach to clothing and children’s toys. If your home feels easy to clean and manage then it’s also going to be more enjoyable to live in.

3. Create a sustainable cleaning routine

American barn style laundry.
Photography and styling: Lousie Roche

If cleaning your home has become a mammoth, exhausting task that you dread then you might benefit from creating a more sustainable cleaning routine in 2025. Get the whole household together and assign your older children some daily household chores they can tackle by themselves—such as taking the bin out or emptying the dishwasher. While your specific routine will depend on your own household and lifestyle, you might find the viral ‘6/10 list’ cleaning schedule helpful—especially if you can palm off some of those daily tasks to other members of your household.

4. Bring more beauty into your home

Photographer: Brigid Arnott

It’s easy to get so caught up in the cleaning, organising and decorating of our homes that we forget what it feels like to really make the most of living in them. This year, try to bring more beauty into your life at home—whether that’s lighting a candle with your evening meal, filling vases with fresh bunches of seasonal blooms or simply appreciating the view out of your kitchen window while doing the dishes, there are many beautiful ways to romanticise our lives at home.

5. Embrace the mess

(Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Lisa Hilton)

Our lives are messy—and our homes can be too. In 2025, try committing o a new mindset of embracing the mess when you need to. Whether its hosting a spontaneous barbecue with friends at yours even if the house isn’t in the best shape or leaving the cleaning for another day to spend time with your kids or have a rest with a good book, don’t let your home demand too much of you. In 2025, remember that your home is a place to rest and relax as much as its a place to style and show.

The post 5 New Year’s resolutions to set for a happier home in 2025  appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1262343 <p><strong>LIVING ROOM</strong> A trio of stacked artworks adds character to the room.</p> before-and-after-californian-bungalow-kitchen-neutral-palette american-barn-laundry Photography and styling: Lousie Roche <p>A round owl cushion from Adairs looks at home against linen from Sage x Clare and Society of Wanderers. For a similar style of table lamp, try Adairs.</p> <p>The balcony beyond the couple's bedroom offers a cleverly built-in couch on one end. A Malawi Cane Traditional open-weave table displays a Sondu 'Iringa' basket from Papaya (used as a plant holder) and is the ideal spot for a morning coffee.</p> homebeautiful-1262343
13 of the splashiest celebrity home sales in 2024 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/australian-celebrity-homes-sold/ Wed, 18 Dec 2024 20:15:56 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1261830 These famous Aussies sold up.

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It’s been a standout year for Australian celebrities who have sold their homes. The list includes a footy star, fashion designer, TV personalities, a fitness influencer and even the Prime Minister. 

Even though most of us don’t have the budget to buy a house that’s been renovated, built by or lived in by the rich and famous, we can still enjoy having a nosy at all the details. 

Here are some of the most high-profile house sales that happened throughout 2024.

Celebrity home sales 2024

It’s been a star-studded line-up in the real estate market.

March 2024: Kayla Itsines sold Adelaide bungalow for $7m

In early 2024, Kayla Itsines, co-founder of multimillion-dollar fitness app Sweat, left her home town of Adelaide to move to the sunny Gold Coast. The move brought the 33-year-old mum-of-two closer to her co-founder and ex-fiancé Tobi Pearce, who she shares a daughter with, and who also moved there from South Australia.

Kayla Itsines Malvern Victoria home sold
The Adelaide home Kayla Itsines sold in March 2024, making a gross profit of around $3.575m. (Image: realestate.com.au)

The 1920s bungalow located at 55 Sheffield Street, Malvern, was bought by Kayla for $3.9 million in 2017. It was sold by her seven years later for a record $7.375 million in March 2024, which is $2.125 more than the former record for the leafy suburb.

Kayla Itsines with partner Jae Woodroffe
Fitness mogul Kayla Itsines with now-fiancé Jae Woodroffe, who she shares a son with. (Image: Instagram via @kaya_itsines)

April 2024: Eric Hipwood sold Queensland cottage for $4m

Brisbane Lions footy player Eric Hipwood and his interior designer partner Ebony Patman sold their Queensland worker’s cottage in the first half of 2024 for around $3.75 million. Interestingly, it looks like the home is already up for sale again.

Eric Hipwood and Ebony Patman
Ebony Patman and Brisbane Lions football player Eric Hipwood at the worker’s cottage they successfully flipped. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

The couple bought the heritage-listed home at 162 Brisbane Street, Bulimba, in 2020 for $1.4 million. They did a major extension and renovation, with the completed property appearing in Home Beautiful magazine. The listing went up in March 2024 and it sold soon after, more than doubling in price in four years.

Eric Hipwood and Ebony Patman home facade
The facade of the Queensland worker’s cottage renovated and sold by Eric and Ebony. (Image: realestate.com.au)

May 2024: Camilla Franks sold Woollahra residence for $8m

Fashion designer Camilla Franks, also known as the ‘Kaftan Queen’, sold her Sydney home on May 3 for $7.65 million.

The Woollahra house features wallpaper designed by Camilla Franks. (Image: realestate.com.au)

Camilla Franks moved on from the maximalist-style residence at 305 Edgecliff Road, Woollahra, to move to Bondi. There, she bought a $12.5 million Arts and Crafts style manor – one of only a few remaining estates of its kind in the area.

May 2024: Chloe Brookman sold Coogee house for $3-5m

Chloe Brookman, co-founder of toy and homewares brand Olli Ella, did a four-month renovation on her double-storey circa 1930 house and sold it in May 2024. The sale price was undisclosed but a Domain guide for the area estimates it at $3.86-$4.92 million.

Olli Ella cofounder Chloe Brookman home sage green kitchen
Olli Ella co-founder Chloe Brookman has a keen eye for a fixer-upper. (Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Lucy Gough)

The mum-of-five and her family have moved from the home at 184-186 Brook St, Coogee, NSW, to another flipping project in the same suburb. They have plans to live in the new place for six months before they start the renovating process all over again.

Olli Ella cofounder Chloe Brookman home entrance staircase
The entrance to the home sold by Chloe Brookman and husband Charlie in 2024. (Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Lucy Gough)

June 2024: Charlie Albone and Juliet Love sold Ourimbah cottage for $2m

Landscape designer Charlie and interior designer Juliet are both hosts on Better Homes & Gardens. Although they previously lived in the home at 162 Ourimbah Creek Road in Ourimbah, NSW, work schedules saw them move to a fixer-upper in Maroubra.

Charlie Albone and Juliet Love smiling and looking at each other
TV host couple Charlie Albone and Juliet Love. (Image: Instagram via @julietlove)

The talented pair had put a lot of love into renovating the weatherboard cottage in Ourimbah. They bought it in 2012 for $840,000 and it sold on June 7 in 2024 for more than double at $2.2 million.

Charlie Albone and Juliet Love Ourimbah cottage
You can see the landscaping and interiors talents in the couple’s Ourimbah property. (Image: realestate.com.au)

June 2024: The Hostess sold Bellevue Hill mansion for $80m

Food blogger Stephanie Conley-Buhre, also known as ‘The Hostess’, sold her Bellevue Hill mansion for around $80 million in June 2024, which is $50 million more than she and her venture capitalist husband Oskar Buhre bought it for in 2021. It’s located at 27 Victoria Rouad in Bellevue Hill and ranks number three in the top 20 biggest homes sales of 2024.

A portrait of Stephanie Conley Buhre in her kitchen with canapes.
Stephanie Conley-Buhre in the home’s new kitchen, featured in Home Beautiful magazine. (Photography: Con Poulos / Styling: Kerrie-Ann Jones)

The couple is reported to have spent more than $20 million renovating the Spanish Mission-style house’s “dated” interiors. That still leaves them with a significant profit of around $30 million in three years.

Stephanie Conley-Buhre Bellevue Hill home
The Bellevue Hill home renovated by Stephanie Conley-Buhre and sold for $80m in 2024. (Image: realestate.com.au)

September 2024: Larry Emdur’s former Sydney clifftop home sold for $21m

While Larry Emdur and his wife Sylvie has already moved on from their breathtaking Dover Heights home after selling it to celebrity accountant Anthony Bell for $11.5 million in 2017, the 2024 sale of the property is worth a mention for its eye-wateringly high price.

Larry Emdur on lounge with wife Sylvie
Larry Emdur and wife Sylvie relaxing in the clifftop home which they sold in 2017. (Photography: Nicky Ryan / Styling: Stephanie Powell)

It went for an incredible $21 million to Leon Xing and Sean Huang, buyers agents at Concierge East. That’s an increase of $14.2 million in the 13 years since Larry and Sylvie bought the property for $6.8 million in 2011. The sale of the oceanfront dwelling located on Hunter St in Dover Heights has smashed records for the area.

Larry Emdur pool
Larry Emdur by the pool at the coveted Dover Heights home that sold in 2024. (Photography: Nicky Ryan / Styling: Stephanie Powell)

September 2024: Kyal and Kara’s Bay Builds duplex sold for $5m

The Block stars Kyal and Kara walk away from 2024 with a double sale – each half of their duplex at 89a and 89b Eloora Rd, Long Jetty in NSW was snapped up for $2.6 million.

Kyal and Kara at the home's stone front entrance.
Seasoned builders and designers Kyal and Kara had sale success with their ‘Bay Builds’ project. (Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Lucy Gough)

Set on the Central Coast, House 1 had a slightly lighter aesthetic of the two and was the first to sell in September for $2.67m. The more moody House 2 was close behind, selling in October for $2.64m. That’s $5.31 million combined.

An open-plan living and kitchen area with neutral furnishings.
The interiors of House 2 in Kyal and Kara’s Bay Builds duplex. (Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Lucy Gough)

October 2024: Marty Fox sold Mornington Peninsula cottage for $2m

The Block judge and co-founder of Whitefox Real Estate, Marty Fox, had an exciting year. Not only did The Block 2024 contestants walk away with a record $5.43 million in combined winnings but he also secured a sale of his own coastal cottage.

Marty Fox The Block judge
Whitefox Real Estate founder and judge on The Block, Marty Fox. (Image: The Block/Channel 9)

The home at 361 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill, Victoria, sold for $2.05 million on 16th October, 2024. Marty and his wife Charlotte bought the pretty Mornington Peninsula property in 2021. As it wasn’t their primary residence and Melbourne commitments were preventing them from spending much time there, they let it go just three years later.

Marty Fox Mornington Peninsula home sold
Marty Fox’s Red Hill home sold at the end of 2024. (Image: realestate.com.au)

November 2024: The Bachelor couple sold North Bondi apartment for $1.5m

The Bachelor love birds Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston are now married with a newborn baby. In need of a little extra space, they sold their North Bondi apartment in November 2024 prior to auction, which means it presumably went for the asking price of $1.4 to $1.5 million.

Jimmy-Nicholson-and-Holly-Kingston-sold-North-Bondi-home
The North Bondi home The Bachelor couple sold when Holly was eight months pregnant. (Image: realestate.com.au) (Credit: Image: realestate.com.au)

Jimmy bought the property at 9/28 Warners Ave amid the property boom in 2021 for $1.42 million, so it seems they didn’t see much movement on that price. With their new bundle of joy having safely arrived and now being the proud residents at a new place, it appears they’re still pleased as punch.

Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston sold North Bondi apartment
The Bachelor’s Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston happily sold their North Bondi apartment. (Image: Instagram via @hollykingston and @jimmynicholson)

November 2024: Anthony Albanese sold investment for $1.7m

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese might not have been the most profitable player in the property market this year but he did make moves that were put under the public microscope. His Dulwich Hill investment property sold on November 29 for $1.75 million. He originally purchased it in 2015 for $1.175, so that left him with a profit of $575,000.

Anthony Albanese Dulwich Hill investment property
The price of the Prime Minister’s property was dropped by $150k before selling. (Image: realestate.com.au)

He may have offloaded one property, but the PM gained another in the form of a cliffside coastal home in Copacabana on NSW’s Central Coast for $4.3m.

Anthony Albanese Copacabana house
The Copacabana coastal property Anthony Albanese purchased to be closer to fiancée Jodie’s family. (Image: Domain/Instagram)

When sharing the news with 2GB radio host Ben Fordham, he explained that it’s in the area where his fiancée Jodie Haydon’s parents and family live.

December 2024: Darren Palmer sold Byron Shire pad for $2.8m

The Block judge Darren Palmer had a couple of properties on the market in 2024. His Byron Shire investment place at 30 Beachside Drive, Suffolk Park, went under offer on December 6, with an asking price of $2.55 to $2.8 million.

Darren Palmer investment Byron Shire pool
Darren Palmer’s Byron Shire home which sold in December. (Image: realestate.com.au)

It was a significant drop of around $1 million in comparison to what Darren and husband Olivier Duvillard bought it for, at $3.85 million in 2021 during soaring real-estate prices. His freshly renovated Bondi home is still on the market, with a price guide of $8.5 million.

Darren Palmer with Olivier Duvillard and their dogs in the living room.
Darren Palmer and husband Olivier Duvillard in their Bondi home which is for sale. (Photography: Kristina Šoljo / Styling Kerrie-Ann Jones)

December 2024: Steph Claire Smith sold Brighton East home for $8m

Fitness influencer and co-founder of Keep It Cleaner health company Steph Claire Smith has sold her mid-century-style residence in Brighton East, Melbourne, for around $7.8 million.

Steph Claire Smith home sold
The Brighton East home sold by Steph Claire Smith. (Image: realestate.com.au)

Steph, who’s expecting her second child with husband Josh Miller, founder of sunglasses company Soda Shades, bought the four-bedroom house for $7 million in 2022.

Steph-Claire-Smith-and-Josh-Miller
Steph Claire Smith and Josh Miller, who are expecting their second baby. (Image: Instagram via @stephclairesmith) (Credit: Image; Instagram via @stephclairesmith)

The pair are also selling Josh’s family home in Bearrii, three hours north of Melbourne, with a price range of $8 to 8.8 million. The Keep It Cleaner (now known as Kic) fitness app Steph founded with business partner Laura Henshaw has been downloaded 750,000 times.

Steph Claire Smith with Laura Henshaw
Kic business founders Laura Henshaw and Steph Claire Smith. (Image: Instagram via @stephclairesmith)

The post 13 of the splashiest celebrity home sales in 2024 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1261830 Kayla Itsines Malvern Victoria home sold Kayla Itsines with partner Jae Woodroffe Eric Hipwood and Ebony Patman Eric Hipwood and Ebony Patman home camilla-franks-woollahra-home-for-sale-bedroom Olli Ella cofounder Chloe Brookman home sage green kitchen Olli Ella cofounder Chloe Brookman home entrance staircase Charlie Albone and Juliet Love Ourimbah cottage 2 Charlie Albone and Juliet Love Ourimbah cottage the-hostess-portrait-1 Stephanie Conley-Buhre Bellevue Hill home Larry Emdur on lounge with wife Sylvie Larry Emdur pool the-block-kyal-and-kara-natural-stone-entrance the-block-kyal-and-kara-spanish-resort-style-kitchen-living Marty Fox The Block judge Marty Fox Mornington Peninsula home sold Jimmy-Nicholson-and-Holly-Kingston-sold-North-Bondi-home Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston sold North Bondi apartment Anthony Albanese Dulwich Hill investment property anthony-albanese-copacabana-house (7) Darren Palmer investment Byron Shire sold Darren Palmer home with Olivier Duvillard and dogs 2 Steph Claire Smith home sold Steph-Claire-Smith-and-Josh-Miller Steph Claire Smith with Laura Henshaw homebeautiful-1261830
Zanzibar gems are one of the easiest indoor plants to grow https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/outdoor-ideas/zz-zanzibar-gem-plant/ Thu, 05 Dec 2024 01:40:07 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/zanzibar-plant-is-easiest-indoor-plant-to-grow Glossy, green and hardy – even the blackest thumb can keep this plant alive!

The post Zanzibar gems are one of the easiest indoor plants to grow appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) has a reputation for being hard to kill and we’re all for it. Also known as the Zanzibar plant, you’ll recognise this hardy specimen from its glossy green leaves radiating from tall spikes that cluster in minimalist form and grow 45 to 60cm in height. Often seen in offices and shopping centres, the ZZ plan is a low-maintenance indoor plant – so the perfect entry-level variety for new plant parents – even with weeks of neglect the fleshy leaves will look stylish in your living room, bathroom, kitchen or entry hall.

Native to eastern Africa, these tropical indoor plants are also known as Zuzu plants and emerald palms. The root system of a ZZ plant is what makes them so indestructible. Technically succulent rhizomes, they absorb and store water to sustain the plant during prolonged periods of dryness.

all white contemporary kitchen with raked ceilings and open play layout

A potted ZZ plant placed by the balcony door in this open-plan kitchen connects the indoors to the hinterland greenery beyond. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

(Credit: Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

How often to water a ZZ plant

The biggest problems arise if you overwater your Zanzibar plant. We mean it when we say it thrives on neglect. The rhizome at the base acts as a water reserve, so let the soil dry out in between waterings – even up to two or three months without watering so a great plant to have if you do a lot of travelling.

Signs you might be overwatering your ZZ plant include yellow leaves, falling leaves or a brown stem. If you notice any of these signs, prune back the damaged foliage and stems and allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

How fast does a Zanzibar gem grow? 

Perhaps the only downside is that the Zanzibar plant is a very slow-growing plant, so what you see is what you get… pretty much forever. If you’re happy to look after it and keen to see your indoor plants grow and flourish, this may not be a rewarding variety to watch such progress. If you’re after a sizeable plant and love the look of it, you’ll have to invest in a large Zamioculcas Zamiifolia plant from the get-go.

Hamptons style living room with Zanzibar gem in corner
A large Zanzibar gem adds greenery to the corner of an open-plan living room. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Kylie Jackes) (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Kylie Jackes)

How to care for your ZZ plant

If you’re in for the long haul and looking for growth, follow a general indoor plant care routine with a little extra water in the warmer months, together with an occasional slow-release fertiliser should reap gentle rewards. Place your Zanzibar gem in indirect light for best results – too much light will yellow the leaves so keep it out of the sun, making it the perfect plant for bathrooms and home offices.

Main bedroom ensuite with double shower.
(Photography: Marnie Hawson / Styling: Siobhan Glass)

Are Zanzibar gems toxic? 

Yes. All parts of Zamioculcas zamiifolia are toxic – from the leaves to the stem. They can cause immediate swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue and throat so a ZZ plant is unsuitable for a household where your pets (or kids!) are prone to snacking on your indoor green friends.

Modern courtyard with deck
Zanzibar gems are toxic, so keep them out of reach of pets and children. (Photography: Shania Shegedyn | Styling: Alana Langan) (Credit: Photography: Shania Shegedyn | Styling: Alana Langan)

How to propagate Zanzibar gems

You can propagate baby ZZ plants from the leaves of your mature plant – simply pull off a leaf, allow it to dry for a day or so, and then pop it straight into fresh compost or propagating mix.

The post Zanzibar gems are one of the easiest indoor plants to grow appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1018584 all white contemporary kitchen with raked ceilings and open play layout <p><strong>KITCHEN</strong> The kitchen was also overhauled to become a connected social space, designed for informal dining, with shelves filled with locally made ceramics forming a striking feature wall.</p> Hamptons style living room with Zanzibar gem in corner A large Zanzibar gem adds greenery to the corner of an open plan living room. Melbourne-energy-efficient-home-ensuite-double-shower (18) Modern courtyard with deck Zanzibar gems are toxic, so keep them out of reach of pets and children. homebeautiful-1018584
Nagi Maehashi spills the secrets to the success of RecipeTin Eats https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/recipetin-eats-founder-nagi-maehashi/ Tue, 03 Dec 2024 09:26:27 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1260878 She dishes on how her blog became a household name.

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If you’ve never heard of RecipeTin Eats, you’ve probably found and made the recipes without even realising it. Look up whatever you want to make for dinner tonight and Nagi Maehashi’s recipes will pop up every time. Why? Well, they’re just that good.

The cook, photographer and videographer behind the mega successful recipe website RecipeTin Eats is so prolific and has honed such an extensive repertoire of ‘everyday’ recipes that it’s impossible to avoid – not that you’d want to. It’s a well-known fact that Nagi Maehashi’s recipes never fail.

Formerly working in finance, she threw it all in to pursue her passion for food. It began as a blog in 2014 and the website has since amassed a large and devoted audience, with 500 million views by 2024. Nagi’s talent for recipe developing has well and truly taken over the internet.

Nagi was born in Japan and her parents are Japanese – her mother, Yumiko, even has her own website, RecipeTin Japan, where she collates the family’s favourite home-cooked Japanese meals. In 1981, when Nagi was a child, they migrated to Australia. The beloved blogger is now based in Sydney, where she’s undertaking a $950k renovation of her $7m Hunters Hill home.

Nagi’s recipes are tried-and-tested as many times as it takes to make them foolproof – she tells us the record is 89 times. For those who prefer their recipes in book format, her second award-winning cookbook, Tonight, has recently been released and it smashed the record for the highest first week of sales for a non-fiction title, selling 78,000 copies.

As if that wasn’t enough, in 2021 Nagi launched a food bank, RecipeTin Meals, which involves three full-time chefs making meals that are donated to the vulnerable five days a week.

Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats credit Rob Palmer
Nagi Maehashi from RecipeTin Eats with her dog Dozer. (Photography: Rob Palmer)

Five minutes with… RecipeTin Eats founder Nagi Maehashi

Here, we talk to RecipeTin Eats founder Nagi Maehashi about the release of her new cookbook and dive into all of her most-asked questions.

Why is your blog called RecipeTin Eats?

“This is one of the questions I get asked the most! I named my website this as a homage to those old-school ‘recipe tins’ that people in decades past used to keep, and store, their handwritten recipes in. The irony of being an online platform named after such a retro thing is not lost on me!”

What’s the secret to a tasty and frugal meal?

“The cost of living is on everyone’s minds these days. I was really mindful of the impact this has made on households since Dinner (published October 2022). To keep costs as low as you can, I always recommend researching recipes that use seasonal produce. The cost variants between in-season and out-of season fresh produce is remarkable, and can make all the difference to the success of a dish.”

Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats Korean BBQ chicken
Korean barbecue chicken from Nagi Maehashi’s cookbook RecipeTin Eats: Tonight. (Photography: Nagi Maehashi)

Is there a dish you’ve created that’s turned out to be especially popular?

“It’s so not glamourous or very exciting, but the most popular recipe on my website is for Oven Baked Chicken Breast. Can you believe it? I feel the reason is that people want to learn, and finesse, the ‘basics’ so they can get more experiential with things a little more adventurous. And I’m always happy to help people do that! In fact, it’s one of my favourite things to do.”

What’s been your biggest career highlight?

“I’ve always been at my most comfortable (outside of the kitchen, of course) behind the keyboard, in my trackies, connecting with readers and food fans from the comfort of my house! But when my first cookbook Dinner was published, and I did a number of events to promote it, I got the bug for seeing people in real life! I get SO MUCH enjoyment from meeting the people who enjoy my website and getting their feedback or personal experience of my recipes. That is definitely the best part about writing cookbooks!”

Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats Thai beef noodle salad
Thai beef noodle salad from Nagi Maehashi’s cookbook RecipeTin Eats: Tonight. (Photography: Nagi Maehashi)

What’s been the biggest surprise since leaving your accountant job?

“I’ve enjoyed transferring some of the tools I used as a corporate accountant into running the website, but to be honest, it’s such a different life that the two don’t really cross over.”

Your dog Dozer has gained almost as big of a fan base as you. How did that happen?

“Have you seen him? I mean, he is the most handsome, loving and loyal friend I could ever ask for. I have no doubt in my mind that I would be nowhere near where I am now if it wasn’t for featuring Dozer as my sidekick since day one.”

What do you make when you’re stuck on what’s for dinner?

“Worst-case scenario – cheese and biccies! (I will NEVER not have cheese in the fridge.) Best-case scenario – leftovers from a day of recipe testing in the kitchen!”

Do you have any tips for feeding a crowd affordably?

“Absolutely – always shop in-season and research suitable recipes so you can accommodate for what’s available. Look at volume verse cost – for example, salmon might be on special in the week that prawns aren’t, so rather than insist on serving prawns, think outside the square.”

Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats Strawberry Swirl Shortcake
Strawberry swirl shortcake from Nagi Maehashi’s cookbook RecipeTin Eats: Tonight. (Photography: Nagi Maehashi)

Are there any new cooking skills you’re excited to master?

“There are always so many! I’m very lucky to work with a Michelin-trained chef JB Alexandre for some of my recipe testing so I always feel like I’m learning new techniques.”

When recipe testing, how do you know when you’ve got it just right?

“By lots of trial and error. I will never publish a recipe unless I have confirmed it ticks all the boxes in regards to flavour and accessibility. I do a lot of testing. I think my record is 89 trials (for My Very Best Vanilla Cake) – my neighbours, friends and family ate well that week!”

Your new cookbook, RecipeTin Eats: Tonight just came out. What can we expect in it?

Tonight was created to answer the everyday dilemma of, “What are we having for dinner tonight?” There are literally hundreds of dinner-dish options included, with a big focus on ingredients that you may already have in the kitchen. I hope it makes everyone’s lives easier when it comes to eating wholly, healthily and affordably!”

Nagi Maehashi's RECIPETIN EATS TONIGHT Cover

RecipeTin Eats: Tonight by Nagi Maehashi, Macmillan Australia, RRP $49.99.

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1260878 Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats credit Rob Palmer 1 Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats Korean-BBQ-chicken Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats Thai-beef-noodle-salad_9 Nagi Maehashi Recipe Tin Eats Strawberry-swirl-shortcake_v2__4 Nagi Maehashi RECIPETIN EATS TONIGHT CVR homebeautiful-1260878
It’s the last day of Black Friday sales, and this is the only shopping guide you need to read https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/best-black-friday-sales/ Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:32:22 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/the-top-10-black-friday-deals-we-can-t-ignore Grab your shopping list, Christmas has come early.

The post It’s the last day of Black Friday sales, and this is the only shopping guide you need to read appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Whereas once we may have dipped our toes in the water of Black Friday sales from Australian retailers, things are more serious this year. There are real savings to be had – so, get your ducks in a row this Black Friday, and the team at Home Beautiful are here to help. Think big ticket items, furniture, homewares and small appliances on your wishlist – now within reach. We’ve found the best deals, and the biggest savings and checked the guest list (twice) to see who is coming to the Thanksgiving party… in a retail sense, at least.

Hit the shops with us online to grab a bargain, now.

When is Black Friday and Cyber Monday?

Black Friday 2024 is on November 29, with deals usually rolling through the weekend into Cyber Monday on December 2. Deals are already underway – and often stretch from now into the weekend – or even the month. You’ll find your favourite retailers offering generous discount offers in fashion, travel, toys and, of course, homewares.

And with the timing of Black Friday being closer to the end of the year, it’s the best excuse to start your Christmas shopping early, so grab your wishlist AND your Christmas shopping list and let’s do this.

What would you like to know?

What we’re shopping for Black Friday 2024

Christmas has come early – below are the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales that you can start shopping, right now.

01

Ecovacs Deebot T20e Omni robot vacuum cleaner

53% off: $949 (usually $1999), Amazon

Best for: a hands-free cleaning experience

There’s no better time to invest in your time than now – with a new robot vacuum. And this model from Ecovacs is our pick thanks to its impressive dual mop action and auto mop lifting, drying, and emptying system. It’s a truly hands-free cleaning experience that allows you get your time back so you can spend more time doing the things you love.

Key features:

  • Auto mopping plates lifting
  • 7100Pa suction power
  • One-tap self clean

02

Clover 6 drawer chest in Teak

30% off: $1819.30 (usually $2599), RJ Living

Best for: a stylish storage solution

Is your wardrobe getting a bit out of hand? This spacious six-drawer chest from RJ Living will not only help keep your clothes neat and organised, but it will also look incredibly stylish while doing so, too.

Key features:

  • Made from solid teak
  • 6 spacious drawers
  • Gently curved handle detail

03

Memory foam mattress

$243 off: $656.99 (usually $899.99) with code ‘BLACK’, Ergoflex

Best for: the best night’s sleep

Ergoflex is offering its customers 30 per cent off sitewide. Our pick is the brand’s best-selling memory foam mattress that moulds to the contours of your body to reduce pressure points, alleviate pain and improve sleep.

Key features:

  • True HD Proprietary foam
  • Cool-Sleep airflow system
  • Naturally anti-allergenic

04

Limited edition Pumpkin casserole

$249 off: $250 (usually $499), Crumble

Best for: the avid home cook

Why use a regular ol’ casserole when you can be a proud owner of a limited edition Pumpkin casserole from Crumble? Wow your guests at your next dinner party as you bring out your signature one-pot dish.

Key features:

  • Limited-edition design
  • Comes with 2x silicone mits
  • Limited lifetime warranty

05

Koala Cushy sofa bed

$358 off: $1432 (usually $1790), Koala

Best for: when guests drop in

When silly season is upon us, so are sleepovers and family members booking the spare room within your home. That’s why adding a compact sofa bed to your guest bedroom is a great idea – and will become very handy for when guests drop in (announced or otherwise).

Key features:

  • Flips out to a sofa bed in one smooth motion
  • Kloudcell topper and standard mattress sizing
  • Soft cushions included

06

Kabrina bowl in Lapis

30% off: $97.30 (usually $139), Sage x Clare

Best for: those who love to host

We’ve found the perfect companion for your summer salads – the Kabrina bowl from Sage x Clare. Each bowl is poured and swirled by hand to ensure every bowl is unique in finish. Available in an array of colourways, but our choice is this eye-catching Lapis hue

Size: 25 x 8 x 20.5 cm

Key features:

  • Made from resin
  • Hand-poured for a one-of-a-kind design
  • Food-safe

07

Habitat 1750 thread cout cotton rich blend sheet set

$85 off: from $84.95 (usually $169.95), Pillow Talk

Best for: a touch of luxury (without the hefty price tag)

Complete with a fitted sheet, flat sheet and four pillowcases, this luxurious 1750TC cotton rich blend sheet set will have you sleeping on Cloud Nine. It’s incredibly soft with its lustrous sateen finish, we’d recommend adding these to cart asap before they sell out.

Key features:

  • 1750 thread count
  • Cotton rich blend
  • Soft sateen finish

08

Twin Lakes bedside tables (set of 2)

16% off: $159 (usually $189), Temple & Webster

Best for: a Hamptons-style home

Available in white, black or natural, this set of two bedside tables from Temple & Webster is the perfect piece for any Hamptons-styled spaces.

Key features:

  • Classic cross-legged base
  • Single drawer
  • Set of 2
Softwash cotton sheet set in Vintage white.

09

Softwash cotton sheet set in Vintage white

$110 off: from $49.99 (usually $159.99) – use code ‘EXTRA12’ for an extra 12% off, Canningvale

Best for: a seasonal bedlinen refresh

Sheets that become softer with every wash? Sign us up. These Softwash cotton sheets from Canningvale are easy to launder and will ensure a cosy night in. Plus, thanks to its relaxed style, you won’t need to iron them after every wash.

Sizes: single, king single, double, queen, king, super king

Colours: White, Forest Green Melange, Misty Blue Melange, Denim Melange, Smokey Grey Melange, Brulee Melange, Oatmeal Melange, Charcoal Melange

Key features:

  • No ironing required
  • Softer with every wash
  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified
Breville The Barista Pro manual coffee machine.

10

Breville The Barista Pro manual coffee machine

$521 off: $878 (usually $1399), David Jones

Best for: the coffee connoisseur

Coffee machines are at the top of many wishlists and shopping lists – especially during a sale – and with good reason. This one from Breville is the perfect home coffee machine. With a three second heat up time and precise espresso extraction, you’ll be able to enjoy cafe-quality brews in the comfort of your own home.

Key features:

  • 3 second heat up time
  • Precise PID temperature control
  • Stainless steel conical bur grinder

Also available at:

11

KitchenAid Cordless Go hand mixer with battery

$20 off: $179 (usually $248), KitchenAid

Best for: the home baker

With the KitchenAid cordless hand mixer, you’ll never be tied to a power point again. Thanks to its compact design, this hand mixer is perfect for small kitchens, ensuring you can achieve your cooking and baking dreams easily.

We actually reviewed this hand mixer in October 2024 and loved the design.

“…as I began testing this hand mixer, it was the beaters itself that caught my attention…. The turbo beaters are designed without an inner post, meaning they work more efficiently at mixing without getting clogged up like traditional beaters. Plus, they’re dishwasher-safe, which is a non-negotiable when it comes to baking tools,” our writer Janet Guan shared, adding that she “fell in love with baking again” after testing them. Check out the full review if you want more details on what we thought.

Key features:

  • Cordless design
  • Rechargeable battery delivers 60 minutes of continuous run time
  • 7 speed settings with soft start

Also available at:

12

210cm Aspen dark green cashmere tipped Christmas tree

30% off: $279.30 (usually $399), David Jones

Best for: prepping early for Christmas

There’s no better timely purchase than a Christmas tree on Black Friday to prepare yourself for the silly season ahead. This one from David Jones is our pick and features 692 mixed tips (including soft feathery cashmere tip) to ensure you have a lush tree to create the perfect festive setting at home.

Size: 210cm

Key features:

  • Mixed & cashmere tips
  • 210cm
  • Comes with tree trimming gloves

List of the best Black Friday deals for 2024

Shop ’til you drop with the best Black Friday sales that are on right now.

Editor’s picks: Black Friday deals

It’s the last day of official Black Friday Cyber Monday sales, which means you’re probably a *bit* tight on time. Don’t worry, we have you covered. Below, our Senior Shopping Content Producer, Janet Guan, has curated her top Black Friday sale picks to give you some shopping inspo while saving you from scrolling forever, and ever, and ever…

Best Black Friday home appliances sales

Best Black Friday mattress sales

Best Black Friday furniture sales

  • CASTLERY: Up to $600 off storewide and up to 30% off sale picks.
  • JAMES LANE: 30% off storewide.
  • TEMPLE & WEBSTER: Save up to 50% off an array of coveted home goods, now.
  • MOCKA: 20% off sitewide.
  • LOUNGE LOVERS: 20-60% off storewide.
  • FREEDOM: Black Out sale. save up to 30% off selected furniture.

Best Black Friday homewares sales

When is Black Friday in 2024?

Black Friday is on November 29, with Cyber Monday following suit on December 2.

How long do Black Friday sales last?

Many retailers now extend their Black Friday sales by dropping early deals and extending offers past Cyber Monday, too. But keep in mind that the best Black Friday deals are often so good that products will sell out before the sales officially end, so it’s a good idea to shop what you really want first.

Your 3-step guide to navigating Black Friday sales

Shopping sales effectively – especially Black Friday – is not for the weak. That’s why being prepared early is a great idea. Below is your handy three-step guide to ensure you get the best sale deal this Black Friday.

Step one: curate your wishlist

Who doesn’t love a good wishlist? If you’ve been thinking of biting the bullet on your next air fryer, or perhaps you’re after some fresh linen sheets for the summer, write down the big-ticket items you’ve been eyeing up in one curated list.

Step two: do your research

It’s one thing to write down ‘robot vacuum‘ on your wishlist, but it’s another to write ‘Ecovacs Deebot T3 Pro’. In other words, this is part of the journey where you’ll want to research heavily to ensure there are no impulsive buys during oh-so-tempting sale seasons. Our hot tip? Read up on expertly-curated buyer’s guides – especially for small appliances – to ensure you’re well informed.

Lucky for you, you can find expert buying guides right here at Home Beautiful. From kitchens, bathrooms, to laundry and outdoor buys, you can be confident you’re buying the best of the best – no matter what you’re searching for.

HB’s HOT SHOPPING TIP:

Step three: find the best Black Friday deals

Once your wishlist is sorted, it’s crucial to know which brands or retailers are offering Black Friday deals. And if you’re excited about the savings to be had, you’re at the right place.

Check where the items on your wishlist are being sold especially if there are multiple retailers. That way you can jump on the best deals, or if it sells out somewhere you can check for other Black Friday deals.

The post It’s the last day of Black Friday sales, and this is the only shopping guide you need to read appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1015766 ecovas-robot-vacuum rj-living-drawer ergoflex-mattress-1 crumble-casserole koala-sofa-bed-2 sage-clare-resin-bowl pillow-talk-sheets white-drawers canningvale coffee-machine kitchenaid-handmixer-1 christmas-tree black-friday-editors-pick Revamp your home with the best Black Friday furniture sales best-mattress-black-friday-deals dyson-black-friday-sales homebeautiful-1015766
Why you shouldn’t feel dumb about getting smart home help https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/the-smart-home/ Thu, 28 Nov 2024 04:58:48 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/the-smart-home Not a robot, but the VA you didn't know you needed.

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Who hasn’t driven off to work and wondered if the heater or the straightener is still on, or left the house without their keys? Life is busy and while there are no medals for just getting through the day, sometimes a little help to tick off all of the boring life admin list is reward enough—bonus points for not burning down the house or being locked out. Investing in smart home devices may be your key to a carefree existence—and you wouldn’t be the only one.

“Australian homes are getting smarter,” Jeremy Senior, Vice President Consumer Electronics at Samsung Australia, explains, pointing to Samsung-commissioned Nature research that shows “as of 2023, Australians have an average of 10.9 connected devices in the household.”

Rather than completely taking over every aspect of our daily lives, smart home technology feels more like a helpful delegation of tasks. This is how we should think about smart homes—tech that allows us to assign routine responsibilities to intelligent systems—like a virtual assistant—freeing us to focus on more meaningful or enjoyable activities while maintaining control over our home environment.

Why not streamline the details without surrendering what can easily overwhelm us, making our homes work smarter, not harder? Such magic is now available. The stuff we have dreamt about for years is finally coming true. Here are three ways to hack your life with smart home helpers—right at your fingertips and without a hint of back chat.

Any space can be a smart space. (Credit: Simon Whitbread)

1. Turn appliances on and off remotely

With smart power plugs, you can check if an appliance is still on from your smartphone. Apps like Samsung SmartThings go a step further using a 3D map of your entire home to monitor, adjust or switch off any appliances connected to a smart plug anytime, from anywhere. Better still, (wo)man the controls from your Family Hub refrigerator when you’re in the kitchen with smart home apps. Call out items for your shopping list when standing in front of the pantry or adjust the room temperature as the evening cool sets in without leaving your seat.

“By seamlessly connecting users to their appliances, SmartThings not only promotes efficiency but also helps Australians make more eco-conscious decisions,” Senior explains.

“A popular feature is SmartThings Energy, which allows users to set energy usage goals and receive notifications when limits are reached, helping them save on electricity. This is particularly valuable as over half of Australians (51%) report high energy consumption as their top appliance-related frustration, and almost all (94%) are making accommodations to save energy, according to the Australians@Home Report: 2024 Smart Living Edition.”

This is particularly helpful when using specific appliances, such as Samsung’s Bespoke AI Heat Pump Combo.

“Appliances like Samsung’s Bespoke AI Heat Pump Combo, for example, can reduce energy consumption by up to 60% during the wash cycle and 20% during the dry cycle with AI Energy Mode, offering an efficient solution to combat rising energy costs while maintaining a stylish, modern home,” Senior says.

Set your smart devices to turn off automatically when you leave the house, or turn on at a certain time of day. This is an easy way to reduce power consumption, stay on top of refills and replace bulbs and filters.

(Credit: Samsung)

2. Watch your pets at play

Find out what your furry friends get up to when you’re not at home, with the installation of a HD camera, or simply spy on them with your robot vacuum cleaner. You can even talk to them when you’re away or adjust settings on home appliances to suit your pet’s needs; room temperature, pet feeder levels, automatic blinds. If they want some company, turn the radio on remotely!

Long hallway with arched details and a dog sitting right at the end.
(Credit: Photographer: Natalie Jeffcott)

3. Forgot your door key? You can still get in…

A smart door lock allows keyless entry with coded or fingerprint touchpads, so offers a perfect solution for families who tend to lock themselves out, or lose and forget keys. You can use it to monitor the times your kids are going and coming home from school by setting up alerts when the front door is opening. Combining a smart lock with a smart doorbell, security cameras or other home automation devices like motion sensors will provide a fully secure, connected experience.

Hamptons style black front door
Safe, stylish and secure. (Photography: Armelle Habib)

4. Smart speakers

Perhaps the most readily adopted smart home device is a smart speaker. Now you can even pair your wall art to your TV audio with products like the Samsung Music Frame to play music and boost sound to every corner of the room. Elsewhere in the home, the simple step from speaker to receiver has embraced technology advances, to see these little wonders act as a hub for home automation and often an extension of other smart home tech. Synced to the family calendar, the ability to set alarms and reminders, double as a baby monitor or respond to commands and learn as they go has made life-changing improvements at home for people with disabilities or mobility issues, making everyday tasks much easier to manage.

Smart home devices to make your life easier

01

Music frame

$499, Samsung

Best for: secret sound

The latest addition to Samsung’s surround sound suite, the new, award-winning Music Frame is a brilliant solution for those looking to hide their tech in favour of aesthetic appeal. Like the The Frame TV, it doubles as a picture frame, cleverly hiding 6 Dolby Atmos 3-way speakers that deliver powerful, adaptive sound from behind an artwork of your choice, positioned wherever you need it in your home. Customised with your own photos or a custom artwork, wall mount it, use it as a standalone speaker, or pair it with your TV for seamless, stylish surround sound that is visually seamless.

Size: W35 x H36 x D14cm.

Colour: Black.

Key features:

  • Wireless TV connection
  • Compatible with Samsung SmartThings App
  • Wall mount kit included
  • Play music from your Samsung phone
  • Works with Amazon Alexa, Apple Airplay, Google Home and more

02

Deebot T30 Omni vacuum and mop

$1199 (usually $1749), Ecovacs

Best for: fuss-free remote cleaning

A smart robot is about as close as it gets to the dream helper around the house. Set up this little whiz to run automatically every few days when you’re not home and you’ll have clean, mopped floors every day of the week. Once you’ve mapped your home —in just 6 minutes— and saved a couple of cleaning sequences for it to clean regularly, all you need to do is occasionally empty the dust bag and give the unit a little TLC from time to time. Any spot cleaning or an extra pass through the kitchen after a messy cooking session can be cleaned up, hands-free, on (voice) command.

Size: Robot: Diameter 35 x H9cm; Station W41 x H49 x D48cm.

Colour: Black or White

Key features:

  • Tangle-free bristles
  • Powerful 11000Pa suction
  • Obstacle avoidance using 3D technology
  • Maps up to 100 square meters in just 6 minutes
  • Compact storage station for water storage, dust emptying and charging
Ring wired video doorbell pro

03

Ring wired video doorbell pro

$229, The Good Guys

Best for: smart security

Is it just me who simply can’t get to the door in time for the delivery person? Set up a video doorbell and you can respond to alerts and detect any motion at your front door with a bird’s eye view as it happens, day or night. A connection to your Amazon Alexa suite means you can talk to visitors at the front door via your smart speaker or remotely via app and be able to tell the difference between a passing cat and a parcel delivery.

Colour: Satin nickel

Key features:

  • 3D motion detection with bird’s eye view
  • Night vision
  • Hardwired or plug-in power
  • Two-way talk function with noise cancellation
  • Works with Ring app via your smart phone

The post Why you shouldn’t feel dumb about getting smart home help appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1004562 Any space can be a smart space Samsung-Family-Hub-refrigerator Sam_and_Snezana_Wood_home_hallway_dog Hamptons style black front door <p>External wall cladding and a bold front door are essential elements in creating a Hamptons style exterior.</p> Samsung-Music-Frame Deebot-T30-Omni-Black Ring wired video doorbell pro homebeautiful-1004562
Is the Dyson Wash G1 really a game changer? Here’s my honest take https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/dyson-wash-g1-review/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:57:00 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1065177 Now on sale for Afterpay Day.

The post Is the Dyson Wash G1 really a game changer? Here’s my honest take appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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AFTERPAY DAY SALE DEAL: $220 off at Dyson (was $999, now $779)

Cleaning floors isn’t exactly rocket science, but the last frontier that wet floor cleaners such as Dyson’s Wash G1 aim to conquer is the business of washing away spills and solids in one hit. It sounds oddly specific, but if you’re a passionate (read: messy) cook, have small children or indoor pets, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.

Take, for example, the feeding of a baby. At the conclusion of every meal, there’s a mess on the floor to contend with. It could be saucy spaghetti strands, sticky rice (that stuff spreads) or steamed pumpkin. You really don’t have much choice but to get down on your hands and knees and pick up the solids one-by-one before hauling out the mop and bucket to finish the job. Until now. Dyson’s Wash G1 is designed to pick up both wet and dry messes and wash your floors at the same time – all without using suction.

Explaining how this works isn’t easy, but I’ll give it my best shot. The cleaning head basically has two microfibre rollers that spin in opposite directions to pick up debris as they mop and polish your floors. Meanwhile, clean water flows into the head and across the rollers while dirty water is simultaneously extracted and stored in its own designated tank. Solid debris is also filtered into its own tray that can be emptied into a bin at the conclusion of each clean. But does it really work? Is it really worth the $999 price tag? Dyson graciously lent me a review model so I could put it to the test in my own home on my own timber and tile floors. Here’s what I think. 

A coastal style dining area with a fluted timber table and white chairs.
Want spotless floors without having to vacuum or reach for a mop and bucket? Dyson’s new hard floor cleaner the Wash G1 aims to make it possible. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Home Beautiful’s Dyson Wash G1 review verdict

  • Our rating: (6 out of 10)
  • Why we rated it a (6/10): You may actually look forward to cleaning messy floors thanks to the Dyson Wash G1, but, weighing in at just under 5kg, it is heavy and requires regular maintenance that isn’t as straightforward as the sleek demonstration videos make it appear. While it’s fairly good at what it does, and satisfying to use, the price tag and limited uses around the house make it a nice-to-have, rather than a need-to-have.

Pros

  • Does a great job of cleaning up messes in one or two sweeps
  • Easy to use
  • Intuitive interface
  • Perfect for touch-ups and tidying up messy areas of the home such as the kitchen and dining room
  • More convenient to whip out than a mop and bucket
  • Even using the highest water setting results in floors that dry quickly without streaks

Cons

  • Expensive, retails for $999
  • Only one side of the head can clean edges, which is awkward to use in some key areas such as the kitchen
  • Bulky head will not fit underneath bed frames or sofas
  • The microfibre rollers don’t do a great job of picking up mess caught in grout lines
  • Annoying to take apart and clean, and improper care can lead to bad odours
  • Additional accessories such as spare mop heads are costly to buy and replace. Rollers need replacing every six months

What’s so special about the Dyson Wash G1?

Hard floor cleaners, or wet floor cleaners, are designed to make cleaning your floors a breeze. The Dyson Wash G1 essentially does the job of a vacuum cleaner (albeit without suction) and a mop in one, with the added advantage of being able to pick up chunks of food and debris like pasta, peas or pet kibble, which would normally have to be picked up manually prior to mopping. Hard floor cleaners also have a motor that ‘drives’ the device as you use it, allowing the head to glide along the floor with little physical effort from the user.

Illustration of a Dyson Wash G1 cleaning a floor
Dyson’s first dedicated hard-floor cleaner uses the power of highly absorbent microfibre rollers to pick up liquid spills, dry dirt, debris and hair. (Credit: Dyson)

How to use the Dyson Wash G1

  1. Fill the clean water tank with water. Optional: add a low suds detergent to the water. 
  2. Turn on the machine and use the onboard screen to adjust the amount of water used. 
  3. Watch as messes are cleaned up right before your eyes. 
  4. Once cleaning is complete, place the machine back on the charging dock. 
  5. Empty the dirty water reservoir and refill the clean water reservoir. Replace back into the machine.
  6. Select ‘Self clean’ cycle. Empty and rinse the debris tray.
  7. Every few uses, check the rollers for debris and wash if necessary.

Results from our test

I fell hard and fast for the Wash G1 once I had it out of the box and set up. It took away a pinch point that had been bothering me for such a long time: post-toddler mealtime clean ups. Now, our family could simply enjoy meals together, no matter how messy things got. Toddler’s ‘yeeted’ (slang for throwing an object with force) an entire bowl of spaghetti on the floor? No worries. Accidentally knocked a cup of milk over while getting brekkie ready? No worries. I can’t stress enough how liberating it is to not have to worry about my floors, or wrecking my knees kneeling under the table picking up food scraps.

Cleaning under the dinner table after a messy meal is a breeze with the Dyson Wash G1. (Photography: Armelle Habib | Styling: Julia Green)

The ease of use extended to cleaning large swathes of my home. I promptly set about cleaning the tiled floors downstairs. It probably took me less than 15 minutes to cover the kitchen, dining and living zone. It was a breeze, but I noted some small dried-on stains on the tiles that just did not budge despite setting the machine to the highest water level. If I was using a spin mop or a flat mop, a bit of elbow grease would have made quick work of these spots, but you can’t apply any extra force with the Wash G1. It just doesn’t work like that.

Then it was time to do upstairs. Weighing in at just under 5kgs, this machine isn’t exactly heavy, but it is cumbersome to lug up the stairs. However, once I got it up there, it made light work of the bedrooms and bathroom. I’d washed and dried my hair that morning, so it had its work cut out picking up loose strands. It did eventually capture the bob-length hairs, but it did take three to five sweeps to do so. To clean the floors upstairs and downstairs required about three water changes.

Minimalist bathroom with freestanding bathtub and white finger tiles
The Dyson Wash G1 can pick up hair, but may take a few sweeps to do so. I found it wasn’t so great at getting down into grout lines. (Credit: Photo: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Once finished, I lugged it back down the stairs. I am a domestic goddess, I thought, marvelling at my sparkling floors. As I placed the machine back on the dock, it prompted me to initiate the self-cleaning function. I’ll get to that later, I told myself. Big mistake.

Everything was fine and dandy, and I was pretty much a convert. I must admit, the next morning did I wake up to a very sore arm – turns out doing the entire house is a workout even if it feels like the machine is driving itself across the floor. I found myself actually getting excited about mess on the floor. Oh yes, another chance to whip out the Wash G1. That entire first week, I reached for it over my trusty stick vac and spin mop. I got so caught up in the joy of the appliance that I made one grave, grave error: not emptying the debris tray and not running the self-cleaning function. But more on this later …

How does the Dyson Wash G1 compare to other hard floor cleaning methods?

As much as I love the Wash G1, it won’t replace your vacuum cleaner, mop and bucket or even your flat mop – despite what the marketing materials suggest. Why? Because these old fashioned floor cleaning methods are affordable, multipurpose (you can clean skirting boards, kitchen cupboards and walls with a spin mop, for example), cheap to buy and, most importantly, easy to clean.

An old-fashioned mop may not be fancy, but you can use it in many different ways, including to wash walls and freshen up skirting boards. (Photography: Simon Whitbread)

Who will love the Dyson Wash G1?

I’m not convinced that the Dyson Wash G1 will satisfy those who already clean their floors using an old-fashioned mop and bucket. I believe those who usually reach for a flat mop or a steam mop are the most likely to enjoy the Wash G1, simply because it offers the same kind of convenience, manoeuvrability and cleaning power. The Wash G1 is also likely to appeal to those with hybrid, vinyl or wood floors, as the machine uses just the right amount of water to get your floors clean without saturating them, and the quick-dry means a perfect, streak-free finish every time. 

But the group who will love this appliance the most? Parents and pet-parents. Cleaning up after messy meal-times, and tidying up spills and little accidents, is a breeze with the Dyson Wash G1. 

I have a confession to make…

Okay, so the glossy brochure part of this review is officially over. Now let’s get down and dirty – literally. After a week of gloriously slurping up messes effort free, I began to get a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Those ‘self-cleaning’ prompts? I’d ignored them one too many times. Why? Well, I was in a  rush to tidy up the kitchen and then make a start on bath and bedtime. Also, the clean tank was empty (or was the dirty tank full?) and it just wasn’t convenient to empty and refill the canisters then and there and well… life happened. Anyway, so there I was, entering the garage where I keep all my cleaning supplies and I noticed it. The smell. And it was coming from the Wash G1. 

Illustration of washing the Dyson Wash G1 rollers and brushes in the sink,.
Promo pics make it look like the Dyson Wash G1 is easy to clean, but I found the process tedious after making an embarrassing user error. (Credit: Dyson)

What happens when food scraps, spilt milk and stagnant water are left to sit in a dark corner where, let’s be real, air doesn’t circulate? I’m sure you can guess. I know, I know, this was 100 per cent my fault, but I’m including this embarrassing slip-up in my review because I believe the type of person this appliance was designed for – i.e. busy people – could easily make the same mistake. Plus, the wash-up that ensued was nothing short of horrific. 

Dyson recommend emptying the clean and dirty water tanks after each clean to avoid stagnant water. They also recommend initiating the ‘self-cleaning’ cycle after each use. The rollers, brushes and base of the charging dock should also be cleaned and dried once a week.

What I should have done

Cleaning the Dyson Wash G1

Before attempting to clean the Wash G1, I watched a series of soothing how-to videos on Dyson’s website. This’ll be a piece of cake, I told myself. Here’s my first person account of cleaning the unit…

Cleaning the debris tray

First I had to slide out the debris tray. It almost sounds quaint, debris tray. But what was inside was more akin to primordial slime than debris. I couldn’t just tap the contents into a bin as I’d imagined, I had to scrape off the smelly grey sludge and scrub every nook and cranny with a detergent-laden brush. 

Cleaning the rollers

Then came the microfibre rollers. Initially I rinsed them, added a touch of gentle laundry detergent and shampooed them thoroughly. I rinsed again. But upon lifting the roller to my nose, I couldn’t deny that the distinct smell of sour milk was still there. So I popped them in a bucket of Napisan for 30 minutes before rinsing them clean again. Thankfully this removed the odour.

Hot tip: Washing Dyson Wash G1 parts is a job too dirty for the kitchen. Save it for the laundry sink. (Photography: John Downs | Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Cleaning the brushes

And then it was time to turn my efforts to the machine itself. I wiped down the base of the machine (where all of the rollers and brushes attach) first with a damp cloth and a slosh of white vinegar (I was desperate to eliminate the odour). Then I wiped it down with a damp cloth and a drop of dishwashing liquid. Then I hand-washed the water canisters and hand dried them before refilling the clean tank and placing it back on the machine. All in all, there were over ten different parts that needed to be pulled apart, hand washed, air-dried and reassembled.  

Drying the rollers

It’s also worth noting that the rollers take a long time to dry. It’s winter now, so the weather isn’t exactly in my favour, but I put the rollers outside at 12pm on an overcast day and they still weren’t completely dry by 4pm the following day. I don’t see this being an issue in summer but, because they cannot be tumbled dried, if you’re planning to use this appliance regularly, you may want to purchase an additional set of rollers.

Overall, is the Dyson Wash G1 worth it?

The biggest advantage that the Dyson Wash G1 has over old-fashioned floor cleaning methods is that, if there’s a mess, it’s just so convenient to grab, clean up and move on with your life. The floor also dries super quickly, which is important if you have young kids running around. If you have young children or messy pets, you may find this appliance well worth the price tag.

But, and there’s a big but, I believe any time saved using this appliance is used up again every time you have to pull it apart to wash and maintain it. The entire cleaning process – which Dyson recommend undertaking once a week – took me about 30 minutes (not including time for air-drying) and the whole time I couldn’t help but think: I should have just gotten down on my hands and knees and picked up the mess myself.

Where to buy the Dyson Wash G1

  • Dyson, $999 (and when you buy directly from Dyson you’ll also receive two additional rollers valued at $49, for free)
  • The Good Guys, $999
  • David Jones, $999

The post Is the Dyson Wash G1 really a game changer? Here’s my honest take appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1065177 Brisbane home dyson-wash-g1-cleaning-floor <p>The Zuster 'April' dining table in oak, with Living Edge black leather 'Saddle' chairs, establishes a smart but relaxed vibe in this dining space.</p> Minimalist bathroom with freestanding bathtub and white finger tiles <p><strong>ENTRANCE HALL</strong> Both front doors are original to the house, and Laura gave the timber a handsome coat of <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.dulux.com.au/colours/details/287705_8234">Dulux Black</a>. A lantern pendant emits a welcome glow, and a vintage table, painted in Taubmans Trendy, fits perfectly into the scheme.</p> cleaning-dyson-wash-g1 The busy family laundry was kept simple and classic, with Dulux White On White walls, cabinetry in Dulux Lexicon Quarter, a subway-tile splashback, a benchtop in Caesarstone Frosty Carrina and a generous Shaws 'Classic' farmhouse sink (try Just Bathroomware), with Brodware 'Winslow' tapware. I tried a robot vacuum and mop and my entire house has never been cleaner Modern kitchen with blue cabinets, wooden dining table, chairs, and a robot vacuum on the floor. dyson-submarine-wet-dry-vacuum homebeautiful-1065177
Where you should travel next, based on your interior design style  https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/best-interior-design-travel-locations/ Mon, 04 Nov 2024 06:25:19 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1258926 These are our favourite interior design destinations.

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Those with an eye for interiors will understand the importance of selecting a holiday destination with a sense of style.

Whether you’re going to be trawling through boutique stores for local wares, gathering interior inspiration for your own home or simply soaking up the unique character of a location, interior design can give us an insight into the history, culture and soul of a place.

Read on to find out where you should travel next, based on your favourite interior design style.

Modern tropical — Sri Lanka’s south coast

Interior design in Sri Lanka
@amangalla, @thelasthousesl

Certain locations have a sense of interior design that’s so strong that not even the most luxurious hotels can polish out the character — and Sri Lanka is one of these places. The country’s stylish interiors are heavily influenced by Geoffrey Bawa — the forefather of the tropical modernism movement — and his reclaiming of the island’s colonial aesthetic.

Journey along the laidback south coast to see how Bawa’s love of clean lines, airy spaces and contemporary design has lifted island’s colonial architecture into a new, design-forward era.

Stay: Amangalla, The Last House

Also consider: Singapore, Japan and Bali

Bohemian — Tulum, Mexico 

Tulum interior design style.
@lavalisetulum, @altartulum

Located on Mexico’s vibrant Riviera Maya, Tulum has become known for its beach clubs, yoga studios and iconic bohemian interior design. Here, you won’t find a hotel, restaurant or beach bar that isn’t swathed in natural linens, beachy rattans and earthy, desert tones.

Stay: La Valise Tulum, Altar Tulum

Also consider: Morroco, Spain and Bali

Country — The Cotswolds, England

Country interior design style.
@thebullcharlbury

As an interior design style, country may cover a wide variety of tastes including cottage, farmhouse and French provincial styles. However, as a country, England’s sweet storybook cottages, pretty rolling countryside and history of the country house makes it the perfect place to start exploring the country aesthetic.

While England’s Peak District, Lake District and southern seaside villages all offer plenty of idyllic country interiors, The Cotswolds are a lovely place to start your tour of the English countryside. Expect cosy fireplaces, wooden beams, deep claw-foot bathtubs and grand country kitchens with old-fashioned AGAs and copper pots.

Stay: The Bull – Charlbury

Also consider: The French countryside, New England

Coastal grandmother — New England, USA

New England interior style
@greydonhouse

Coastal grandmother might not be an official interior design term, but it perfectly describes the cosy seaside aesthetic of New England’s idyllic seaside towns around Maine, Cape Cod and Nantucket. With their hydrangea-covered porches, cane lounges and nautical antiques, these sweet coastal towns boast a combination of Hamptons elegance and cottage cosiness.

Stay: Greydon House

Also consider: England’s southwest, Sweden and Denmark

Mid-century modern — California, USA

Mid-century style in Palm Springs.
@lhorizonpalmsprings, @lescactusps

While many locations offer good examples of mid-century modern design, the aesthetic really found its footing in California, where the the design style has become the signature aesthetic of the Californian desert city of Palm Springs.

This is largely thanks to the renowned real estate developer Joseph Eichler, who became known for building modernist homes throughout southern and northern California in the 1950s. The homes, with the their distinctly mid-century floor to ceiling glass, wood panelling and low-slung gabled roof, still have a significant influence on the interior design choices of this part of the world.

Stay: L’Horizon Resort Palm Springs, Les Cactus

Also consider: Denmark, Melbourne suburbs

Minimalist — Japan

Minimalist interior style.
@log_onomichi, @nipponia_mino

The minimalist movement has its roots in Japanese design, which has been informed by centuries of Zen Buddhism philosophies around simplicity, nature and peace. For those who haven’t yet found an appreciation for minimalist interiors, a stay in Japan will be enough to convince you that less stuff doesn’t mean a lack of warmth, character or beauty.

Stay: Nipponia Mino Shokamachi, LOG Onomichi

Also consider: Denmark, Finland, Norway

The post Where you should travel next, based on your interior design style  appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Inside all of Martha Stewart’s iconic homes https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/martha-stewarts-homes-real-estate/ Mon, 04 Nov 2024 02:43:49 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1259002 From New York to Maine, take a tour of Martha Stewart's most iconic properties.

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There are few homes that hold as much cultural significance as those belonging to Martha Stewart. As someone who built her brand on homemaking, Martha Stewart’s properties are entwined with our understanding of her as a person and as an icon. It’s something that even she admits in her new Netflix documentary, Martha, when she states that she wouldn’t be the same person without her beloved Connecticut homestead, Turkey Hill.

Over the years, Martha has bought, renovated and made a life in more than one iconic property. Here, we take you on a tour of five of the most famous — from New York City to America’s idyllic coastline.

Turkey Hill, Connecticut

Martha Stewart and her ex-husband at Turkey Hill in 1980.
Martha Stewart and her ex-husband in front of their Turkey Hill property in 1980. Getty

Out of all of her enviable properties, Turkey Hill is still the home that people still associate with Martha Stewart. In the new Netflix documentary, Martha, the famous homemaker explained that she wouldn’t be the same person without this property.

After buying the home in the 1970s with her husband at the time, Andrew, Martha lived at the homestead until 2007.

Martha Stewart's Turkey Hill garden.
Martha Stewart in the garden of her Turkey Hill property in 1976. Getty

It was a property that Martha made into her own, with magnificent vegetable gardens, orchards of fruit trees and farm animals such as geese, chickens and ducks contributing to the home’s icon status.

Martha Stewart in her garden at Turkey Hill in 1976.
Martha Stewart at Turkey Hill in the 1970s. Getty

The home itself was an early 19th-century farmhouse with a classic farmhouse kitchen. The kitchen, which famously featured on the opening spread of Martha’s 1982 cookbook Entertaining, had sycamore wood cabinets, skylights and an overhead pot rack.

Martha Stewart in her Turkey Hill kitchen.
Martha Stewart in her Turkey Hill kitchen. Getty

While Andrew moved out of the property after his separation from Martha in 1987, Martha lived in the home until 2007, when she sold it for US$6.7 million.

Martha Stewart in her vegetable garden at Turkey Hill in 1976.
Martha in Turkey Hill’s impressive vegetable garden. (Credit: Getty)

Lily Pond Lane, The Hamptons

Martha Stewart's home in East Hamptons.
(Credit: Getty)

Martha purchased her East Hamptons home on the exclusive Lily Pond Lane in 1991, after her divorce from Andrew.

When Martha bought the 1873 Shingle-style property, it was the “oldest house on the block and a total wreck”.

However, a makeover saw the home revived with an enclosed porch, beadboard ceilings and, of course, plenty of stylish Martha-approved home decor.

The Hamptons home sold for $16.5 million in 2021, when it was bought by former Buzzfeed chairman and cofounder of Huffington Post Kenneth Lerer and his wife Katherine Sailer, an interior designer.

Skylands, Maine

Martha Stewart's home in Maine.
The exterior of Martha Stewart’s home in Maine. @marthastewart48 (Credit: Instagram)

In 1997, Martha bought Skylands, a gorgeous property in Maine’s Seal Harbor, where she still spends every summer.

Located outside Acadia National Park, the home was originally built in 1925 for auto executive Edsel Ford.

Martha Stewarts home in Maine.
The exterior of Martha Stewart’s home in Maine. @marthastewart48 (Credit: Instagram)

The residence doesn’t only feature a grand stone outdoor alfresco area, but 12 bedrooms and multiple living areas, all decked out in decor that reflects the property’s surrounding natural environment.

Martha Stewart's living room in Maine.
The living room at Skylands. @marthastewart48 (Credit: Instagram)

Bedford Farmhouse, New York

Martha Stewart farm stay exterior
The exterior of Martha’s iconic Bedford Farmhouse. (Credit: Booking.com)

Today, Martha’s main residence is a gorgeous farmhouse property in Katonah, New York, which she refers to as Bedford Farm and Cantitoe Corners.

Since buying the 1925 home and its 153 acres of land in 2000, Martha has transformed the property into a functional homestead with manicured and productive gardens, a greenhouse, pool and farm animals.

The aerial view of Martha Stewat's Bedford Farmhouse.
The aerial view of Martha’s Bedford farmhouse. @marthastewart48 (Credit: Instagram)

Upper West Side, New York

Martha Stewart's apartment in New York City.
The exterior of the exclusive Belnord complex on New York’s Upper West Side. (Credit: Getty)

In 2024, Martha and her daughter Alexis purchased an apartment on New York’s Upper West Side. It’s located inside the exclusive Belnord complex — best known for Only Murders In The Building— with the complex being recently renovated by architect Robert A.M. Stern.

With six bedrooms, heated flooring and a stylish oak-and-white-lacquer kitchen, the 4,600 square-foot apartment makes a luxurious base for Martha’s times in the city.

The post Inside all of Martha Stewart’s iconic homes appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Riley Keough has released new images of Elvis’ Graceland mansion https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/riley-keough-inherited-graceland/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 02:44:49 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1045608 Her late mum's memoir was launched there.

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To announce the release of her late mother’s memoir, From Here To The Great Unknown, Elvis Presley’s granddaughter Riley Keough has shared new images of Graceland. The book was begun by Lisa Marie Presley, who passed away in 2023, and completed by daughter, Riley. So it made sense that the launch take place on the property where the family’s story began.

Graceland Living Room Riley Keough
A new image of Riley Keough in Graceland’s white living room with peacock stained-glass windows, before she hosted guests on the grounds for the book launch. (Image: Instagram via @rileykeough)

As part of the October 2024 release, Riley Keough gave Oprah Winfrey a tour of the grounds. “We are here in Elvis’s living room where I’m going to be interviewing Elvis’s first grandchild,” says Oprah in an Instagram video which shows the famous white room with stained-glass peacock windows. The full sit-down interview, An Oprah Special: The Presleys – Elvis, Lisa Marie And Riley, can be viewed on Paramount+.

Graceland Riley Keough and Oprah Instagram
Riley Keough shows Oprah around Graceland before an interview inside the famous living room. (Image: Instagram via @oprah)

What is Graceland famous for?

Graceland mansion is almost as famous as its former owner, the late Elvis Presley. The 5.6 hectares of hallowed grounds are inextricably linked to memories of the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll”. The American actor and singer moved in with his parents when he rose to fame at 22 years old, paying just US$102,500 for it in 1957.

He lived in the colonial-style mansion for 20 years, along with his former wife, Priscilla Presley, whom he was married to for six years, from May 1967 to October 1973. Their only daughter, Lisa Marie, was born during that time.

Why is Riley Keough the sole owner of Graceland?

It’s official, Riley Keough now owns the iconic Graceland mansion. After months of deliberations in the court system after her mother died, a Los Angeles judge named then-34-year-old Riley the sole owner of the famous Memphis property on August 4, 2023.

The future of Graceland had been up in the air after the Daisy Jones & The Six star’s mum, Lisa Marie Presley, passed away on January 12, 2023. While Riley was named the sole trustee in the will, Elvis’ former wife and Riley’s grandmother, Priscilla Presley, contested it.

Now we know the famous property is Riley’s, but she has no plans to move in anytime soon. Graceland is still being run as a tourist destination, with more than 600,000 people visiting each year. The interiors have been preserved like a museum since it was first opened to the public in the 80s.

Riley Keough sitting on a white couch in Graceland's living room.
New images include a shot of Riley Keough on an original white armchair in Graceland’s living room. (Image: Instagram via @rileykeough)

While Riley Keough doesn’t live at Graceland, she has stayed there with her mum while tours were being run. On an episode of Late Night with Seth Meyers, Riley explained how it worked.

“The tours start in the morning and they end at four,” she told the late-night show host. “So if we were to stay in the house, Elvis’ room and my mother’s room are not part of the tour. So we would stay upstairs and have to wait, basically. We’d get stuck until the tours were over. If we didn’t get out before the tours began, we’d be stuck until like 5pm.”

We can’t help but see similarities in Graceland’s interior design to the aesthetic in Daisy Jones & The Six, based on the best-selling book about a fictional band. Having already embodied the role of 1970s singer Daisy, Riley should feel right at home.

What exactly has she inherited? Let’s take a look around…

Riley Keough inherits Graceland
Actor Riley Keough, daughter of Lisa Marie Presley, inherited Graceland. (Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

Graceland entrance

Even if you’ve never seen inside Graceland, there’s a good chance you’ll recognise the front. Four impressive white columns reach two storeys high, supporting the gabled roof over the porch. The front steps are flanked by lions who welcome fans to this famous piece of real estate.

Graceland entrance circa 1970
Graceland entrance captured around 1970. (Mick Hutson/Redferns)

The Graceland mansion’s icon status is cemented in Elvis pics. It’s the backdrop for a famous shot in the driveway around the time he moved in.

Rock and roll singer Elvis Presley Graceland
Elvis Presley strolls the grounds of his Graceland estate circa 1957. (Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

Graceland living room

Elvis lived in the home from 1957 to 1977 (the year he died) and the interiors are like a time capsule of the era. The stained-glass peacock panels between the living room and music room were installed in 1974.

Graceland living room courtesy of Graceland Mansion.
Graceland living room has stained-glass peacock windows. (Courtesy of Graceland Mansion)

Graceland Jungle Room

Although Elvis never called it The Jungle Room himself, it’s become known as that over the years. It’s easy to see why, thanks to the green carpet, rock wall, fernery and carved-wood furniture that was chosen by Elvis and inspired by Hawaii, his favourite place to holiday.

The Jungle Room Graceland
An armchair in The Jungle Room at Graceland. (Paul Natkin/Getty Images)
The Jungle Room, Graceland.
The Jungle Room at Graceland was known as the den by Elvis. (David Lefranc/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Graceland dining room

Decked out with blue curtains, a black marble floor and grand chandelier, Graceland’s dining room is a sight to behold. The table is said to have a button underneath which Elvis used to contact the kitchen staff.

Graceland dining room
Graceland’s dining room has a black marble floor. (Jon Hicks/Getty Images)

Graceland pool room

The walls and ceiling in Graceland’s pool room are covered in patterned fabric which it is said to have taken three men 10 days to install. It was inspired by an image of an 18th-century billiards room that Elvis liked. He bought the pool table in 1960.

Graceland pool room
Graceland’s pool room walls and ceilings are covered in patterned fabric. (Elizabeth Leyden/Alamy)

Graceland pool

In an uncanny resemblance to the one in Daisy Jones & The Six, the Graceland pool has a retro kidney-bean shape and a long white diving board.

graceland mansion pool wikimedia
Graceland mansion pool with a diving board. (Wikimedia)

Graceland’s pool is sectioned off to visitors, so you can’t quite get close enough to take a dip like Daisy does in the show, dress and all.

Pool Scene Daisy Jones and The Six
The pool scene in Daisy Jones & The Six. (Courtesy of Prime Video.)

Shop the 1970s interiors look

There’s so much to love about the 70s-esque Graceland interiors (which would be right at home in a scene from Daisy Jones & The Six). The colours, the materials, the vibe. All it needs is a modern touch to adapt to our homes today.

Daisy Jones and The Six Cast Courtesy of Amazon Studios
Daisy Jones & The Six cast. (Courtesy of Amazon Studios)

It’s an interior design period that’s influenced recent decor trends. Forest green, rich amber, wooden details and luxe leather are all in right now. Here’s what we’re adding to cart for that Graceland style. Pretty sure Daisy Jones would approve…

01

Decor Cosmo hand-tufted wool rug in Green, (200 x 140cm)

$1499 (usually $3240), Temple & Webster

Forest green and geometric shapes hit the spot.

02

Atticus tobacco leather armchair

$1,899, Adairs

Timeless in style and large enough to snuggle right into, this sturdy staple is made for sitting back and relaxing in.

03

Carafe & Glass in Green

$89, Maison Balzac

Green goes with everything, making it easy to stay hydrated, stay cool anywhere in the home or office.

04

Smith table lamp

$409.50 (usually $585), Cafe Lighting & Living

Lighting is a clever way to make a statement and texture never looked so good as with this bold, knobbly lamp.

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The best Australian beach houses to book for a summer holiday https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/the-best-beach-houses-to-rent-airbnb/ Wed, 16 Oct 2024 06:43:31 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1258066 Beach houses worth escaping to.

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Many of us dream of escaping to a beach house for the summer. Whether it’s for the weekend or the whole month, there’s something special that happens when you first slip off your shoes and relax into life by the sea. Long hours spent lounging on the veranda make the days feel longer, while salty ocean swims and plenty of sunshine help us sleep deeper, and of course, there are very few things that a glass of wine by the ocean can’t fix.

As any beach house-goer knows, the best beach houses aren’t the ones with the most modern furniture or the latest technology, but the ones that create a space for unwinding and connecting — a big deck with a view of the ocean, a wood fire within reach of a pile of board games, and the type of laidback interiors that don’t stress you out when your children drag half the beach inside.

With these features in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the best beach houses to book all around Australia — from the wild coast of Western Australia to the prettiest corners of New South Wales.

Best beach houses to book in Australia in 2024

A beach house on the Eyre Peninsula.
(Credit: Airbnb)

A surf shack on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia

Best for: couples, seclusion

Located on the Eyre Peninsula, this gorgeous little surf shack sits on a secluded section of the South Australian coastline. The shack’s interiors have been lovingly curated by South Australian interior designer Sarah Hall, whose choice of muted yellows and laidback furnishings give the home its nostalgic charm.

The highlight of the home is its ocean-facing front deck, where guests are invited to spend hours lazing in the hammock and watching the waves roll in. An indoor fireplace and record player bring an element of romance to the home, while an outdoor fire pit is the only place to spend cool evenings under the stars.

What we love about it

  • Retro vibe
  • Isolated location
  • Back to basics

A beach house in Tasmania
(Credit: Airbnb)

An oceanfront escape in Falmouth, Tasmania

Best for: couples, families, winter escapes

This lovely fisherman’s cottage draws the romantics to Tasmania’s sleepy seaside town of Falmouth. The home’s careful curation of vintage knick-knacks, outdoor bath and proximity to the ocean make it somewhere that’s just as beautiful in a winter storm as it is in the morning sun.

Days are spent eating fresh oysters and spotting the local sea life, while nights consist of curling up with a glass of Tassie wine by the outdoor fire place and listening to the sound of the ocean.

What we love about it:

  • Ocean views
  • Cosy interiors
  • Outdoor bath

A Hamptons style interior of a beach house.
(Credit: Airbnb)

A beachfront cottage in Narrawallee, New South Wales

Best for: groups of friends, big families

Beach holidays are better spent with friends, and this sunny beachfront home in the New South Wales town of Narrawallee ticks all of the boxes. With its high ceilings, stylish Hamptons-style interiors and deck overlooking the ocean, it’s a beach house that will please everyone — and with space for up to 10 people, you won’t have any problems fitting them all in.

The location on New South Wales’ beloved South Coast is also a highlight, with the property being just a 10-minute walk (or two minutes’ drive if you’re feeling lazy) to Mollymook beach.

What we love about it:

  • Hamptons-style interiors
  • Balcony views
  • South Coast location

Timber lined interiors of a beach house.
(Credit: Airbnb)

Rustic oceanfront serenity in Bremer Bay, Australia

Best for: families, groups of friends

Nestled into the dunes of Western Australia’s beautiful Bremer Bay, this beach house sits on a generous 100 acres of bushland. With its big ocean-facing windows, timber-lined walls and oversized deck, the unique design embraces its spectacular natural environment. The cosy woodfire fireplaces add to the property’s charm and make it hard to do anything else than curl up with your favourite book.

What we love about it:

  • Nestled into the landscape
  • Timber-lined interiors
  • Cosy wood fireplace

The deck of a beach house.
(Credit: Airbnb)

Sand and sauna retreat in Marengo, Victoria

Best for: families, groups of friends, pets

With only the Great Ocean Walk separating this pretty blue beach house from the sea, this property is the perfect place to spend some time on Victoria’s Otway Coast.

Outside, there’s a big ocean-facing deck to enjoy your morning coffee and a firepit for nights curled up with a glass of wine. The interiors are just as impressive with the property’s large kitchen boasting ocean views, which turn even doing the dishes into a pleasant task.

The home’s proximity to one of the country’s best walks, access to a private sauna and its acceptance of our furry friends only give the property bonus points.

What we love about it:

  • Pet friendly
  • The deck’s ocean views
  • Private sauna

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I’ve rekindled my love for baking thanks to this cordless kitchen tool https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/kitchenaid-cordless-hand-mixer-review/ Thu, 10 Oct 2024 05:46:03 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1257776 Cut the cords and amp up the creativity.

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I would consider myself a very casual baker. One that whips out a fan-favourite walnut-topped banana loaf only when the bananas I bought a week ago are begging to be eaten – no sooner. However, after deciding to take my lactose intolerance more seriously, I found it a lot harder to satisfy my sweet cravings as my favourites – namely, cakes and pastries – were harder to find, dairy-free.

I dug through the archives for the motivation I once had – circa lockdown 2019 – for baking. During lockdown, I was baking every other day, from banana bread (obviously), mochi doughnuts, and poppyseed bagels to even snow skin mooncakes (alas, this one was well above my skill level). But as soon as life became normal again, I retired the tools – along with the baker in me.

So, with the goal of making more dairy-free goodies to enjoy in mind, I decided to give baking another go. However, the thought of bulky tools and a tiny kitchen made my skin crawl. That’s when I stumbled across KitchenAid’s Go Cordless range. I gained a sliver of hope – maybe I could rekindle my love for baking again.

It was the Cordless Go hand mixer that piqued my interest the most. I recall the pains of finding enough space for a large mixing bowl and accompanying ingredients right next to the power socket (which was always tucked behind the coffee machine, of course). Not to mention the tangled mess and awkward angles that came with the joys of baking with very little counter space. With the convenience this hand mixer promises and KitchenAid’s glowing reputation for making high-quality kitchen appliances, I was ready to put the hand mixer to the test – by baking a dairy-free lemon loaf.

KitchenAid Go hand mixer verdict

  • Our rating: 9/10
  • Why we rated it a (9/10): It does exactly what it claims to do – beautiful lemony frosting formed right in front of my eyes. The cordless convenience was most notable and is a game changer for small kitchens.

Pros

  • Cordless – no more tangled messes and tied next to a cramped corner in your kitchen to whip up your sweet creations
  • Battery life is great – 60 minutes of continuous run time with one charge
  • Flat base means the hand mixer can stand upright on its own
  • Battery is compatible with entire KitchenAid Go Cordless range, meaning you’ll only need one battery for an array of kitchen tools
  • Turbo beaters does not clog up while mixing

Cons

  • It is a bit heavy, but not notably heavier than traditional corded models
  • A bit more expensive compared to other hand mixers on the market

The best dairy-free lemon cream cheese frosting I’ve ever made! Image: Janet Guan

What’s so special about the KitchenAid Go Cordless hand mixer?

It’s in the name – this handy tool is cordless! And it is this exact feature that I was most excited about. But as I began testing this hand mixer, it was the beaters itself that caught my attention. The beaters are no Plain Jane – they’re turbo beaters. The turbo beaters are designed without an inner post, meaning they work more efficiently at mixing without getting clogged up like traditional beaters. Plus, they’re dishwasher-safe, which is a non-negotiable when it comes to baking tools.

Key features:

  • Cordless design, mix wherever your heart desires
  • Battery compatible with entire KitchenAid Go Cordless range which includes a food chopper, hand blender, portable blender, coffee grinder and handheld vacuum
  • Long-lasting rechargeable battery offers 60 minutes of mixing time with one charge
  • 7 speeds with soft-start feature
  • Stainless steel, dishwasher-safe turbo beaters

How to use the KitchenAid Go Cordless hand mixer

If you pick up the hand mixer with a battery bundle, you’ll be pleased the battery comes with a bit of charge. This means you can use the hand mixer as soon as it arrives on your doorstep. Simply pop the two turbo beaters into place and attach the battery to the base of your hand mixer, and you’re ready to go.

There are seven speeds to choose from. And don’t worry; there is a soft-start feature for no-splash operation.

Once you’re done, you can remove the battery and place it on charge. Remove the beaters from the hand mixer and pop them in the dishwasher for easy clean-up.

Results from our test

Though it does sound a bit dramatic, using this cordless hand mixer made me fall in love with baking again. While I will never claim to be the world’s best (or most passionate) home baker, you’ll now find me whipping up a sweet treat more often. The cordless convenience of this hand mixer is what changed the game – having the liberty to use the hand mixer wherever I wanted within the kitchen (or even on the couch), meant I was no longer dealing with the tangling mess of cords or juggling with the tiny bit of counter space next to the power socket.

The beaters also did a stellar job mixing lemon frosting for my loaf. See below for the results!

Creating this lemon cream cheese frosting was a breeze with KitchenAid’s Go Cordless hand mixer. Video credit: Janet Guan

What do the experts think about hand mixer?

Most reviewers loved the cordless design of the tool, as well as its easy maintenance and sleek design.

“Really happy with the performance of the KitchenAid Cordless Hand Mixer. I bought this to take in our caravan. Pleasantly surprised at how it has handled creaming butter and sugar and mixing of cake mixes,” said a five-star reviewer.

“I have limited kitchen space for appliances and I have recently purchased The KitchenAid Cordless Hand Mixer to allow me to quickly and effortlessly whip up my cooking as needed. A reliable machine which is light and easy to manage. Cleaning is so simple, and the charge is more than adequate, and it seems to last forever with no delays. I love the fact that I can quickly grab a hand mixer without needing to find a power point. Easy to store and highly recommend,” stated another five-star reviewer.

Overall, is the KitchenAid Go Cordless hand mixer worth it?

While this hand mixer is a bit more expensive than its corded counterparts, the cordless design makes it well worth the price. Along with KitchenAid’s state-of-the-art design, you know this will be an investment that will last for years to come.

Where to buy the KitchenAid Go Cordless hand mixer with battery

Where to buy the hand mixer

Where to buy battery

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1257776 KitchenAid Cordless Go Hand Mixer Review 2024 Is this cordless hand mixer from KitchenAid really worth the money? We put it to the test. Read on for our honest review. kitchenaid cordless hand mixer review revlon-hair-tool 4 kitchen appliances that’ll make life easier KitchenAid colour of the year 2025 butter yellow stand mixer homebeautiful-1257776
These are our top picks for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/best-amazon-sales/ Tue, 08 Oct 2024 04:37:19 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1053708 Add-to-cart.

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One online retailer that is no stranger to a good sale is Amazon. And with Amazon Prime Big Deals Days happening between October 8 to October 13, the time is now to add your favourite picks to cart to score huge discounts.

With any large sale event, time is of the essence. We don’t want the items you’ve been eyeing up to sell out mid-checkout, now do we? That’s why, below, we’ve outlined everything you need to do to shop effectively and efficiently during Amazon Prime Big Deal Days. From an intuitive three-step guide to our curated shopping picks for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, here is all the shopping inspiration you need.

What is Amazon Prime Big Deal Days?

From October 8 at 00:01 AM AEDST through to midnight October 13, Prime members will be able to score low prices across all categories including electronics, home and kitchen wares, Amazon Devices, everyday essentials and more.

Prime members have access to exclusive deals across the Amazon Australia store as well as their global store – with deals from Amazon UK and US making waves too.

For Amazon Big Deals Day this year, we’ve been spoilt with huge savings across Amazon’s plethora of categories, from Home improvement to kitchen to beauty and more.

When is Amazon Prime Big Deal Days for 2024?

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days? More like Amazon Prime Big Deal Days week. Yes, for 2024, Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is live between October 8 until October 13. That’s six days for you to shop ’til you drop!


Your 3-step guide to shopping Amazon Prime Big Deals Days

While shopping a sale doesn’t usually come with a step-by-step guide, it’s important to note that Amazon Prime Big Deals Days sales are a teeny bit more exclusive. So, you’ll need to take some extra steps to ensure you can reap the benefits of these generous discounts.

Step 1: sign up for Amazon Prime

You’ll need to be an Amazon Prime member to shop Prime Big Deal Day sales. However, lucky for you, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial.

An Amazon Prime membership doesn’t stop at great sales – after your free trial, you’ll have access to free shipping and Amazon’s streaming site Prime Video, all for just $9.99 a month, or $79 for an annual membership.

Sign up for your 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime now to shop the sales during Amazon Prime Big Deal Days.

Hot tip #1:

Step 2: research, research, research

As Amazon is basically an online-shopper’s playground, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the plethora of products and categories you can shop from. Do your research by reading shopping guides (like this one), customer reviews, and checking out the Amazon best-seller category to see what other avid shoppers are obsessed with, too.

Some of our favourite categories to browse on Amazon are…

Best Sellers

Most Wished For

Best Sellers in Home

Movers And Shakers (Amazon’s biggest gainers in sales rank over the past 24 hours)

Step 3: add-to-cart

It may be obvious, but our top tip when it comes to shopping for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is to add your chosen items to your cart, even when you’re not going to check out straight away. This is so you can monitor how much your total spending will be, and most importantly, you can have a clear view of the total discount you’ll be receiving off your entire shop.

What we’re adding to cart for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days

Read on for our top picks of the best home tech to shop for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 2024.

01

ECOVACS DEEBOT N8 robot vacuum cleaner and mop

$798 (usually $1498), Amazon

DEAL: 47% off

Never lift a finger again when it comes to floor care with the Ecovacs Deebot N8 robot vacuum. Not only does it suck up all the dust and debris on your floors, it also has a mopping function that will keep your floors sparkling clean at all times.

Key features:

  • Multi-floor smart mapping with ultrasonic carpet detection
  • One year local warranty
  • 2300Pa suction power & 99% bacterial removal
  • Quiet cleaning at 67 decibels

02

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 5.7L air fryer

$139 (usually $269), Amazon

DEAL: 48% off

If you’re yet to add an air fryer to your collection, then this is your sign to do so. The Instant Pot Vortex Plus will help you create crispy recipes with 95 per cent less oil. Plus, with its six ways of cooking – air fry, bake, roast, reheat, grill, and dehydrate – you can make your favourites without a fuss.

Key features:

  • Offers six cooking functions; air fry, bake, roast, reheat, dehydrate and grill
  • Smart dial control to easily adjust temperature
  • 5.7L capacity
  • Dishwasher safe frying basket

03

Nutribullet Ultra 1200 personal blender

$179 (usually $189), Amazon

DEAL: 5% off

Maybe you’ve slipped off the tracks with your healthy eating goals from the beginning of the year, or you just love the convenience of a fruity smoothie in the morning, a Nutribullet will be your next favourite kitchen appliance (even more so, when it is on sale). The Nutribullet Ultra 1200 features a 1200-watt motor that produces a lower-frequency sound, as well as a glow interface that makes using this handy blender easy peezy (lemon squeezy).

Key features:

  • 1200-watt motor
  • Quiet operation
  • Illuminated buttons

04

Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 multicooker

$179 (usually $259), Amazon

DEAL: 31% off

Pressure cook, slow cook, saute, steam, and more with the coveted Instant Pot Duo Plus multi-cooker. With a generous 5.7-litre capacity, you can cook up to six servings with ease. Family dinners have never been easier.

Key features:

  • 13 smart programs to choose from
  • 6 servings capacity
  • Up to 24-hour delay start and 10 hour keep warm functions

05

Philips Steam&Go handheld garment steamer

$78 (usually $139.99), Amazon

DEAL: 44% off

Keep creases at bay with this hand-held garment steamer from Philips – the best part? No ironing board needed.

Key features:

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Includes accessories; brush, glove and storage bag
  • Steamer allows for vertical and horizontal use

06

Hydro Flask wide flex straw water bottle

$48.65 (usually $58.57), Amazon

Stay hydrated at all times with this handy water bottle from none other than Hydro Flask. Insulated to keep your drinks cold for 24-hours, leak-proof for peace-of-mind, and crafted with durable pro-grade stainless steel to ensure your water tastes fresh with every sip. Plus, it’s also dishwasher-safe – which is a must in our books.

Key features:

  • Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps water cold for 24-hours
  • Wide mouth straw
  • Leak-proof

07

Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth portable speaker in White Smoke

$150 (usually $249), Amazon

DEAL: 40% off

If there’s only one outdoor speaker you need, it’s the Bose SoundLink Flex. With its state-of-the-art design, this portable speaker is packed with tech that produces deep, clear, and immersive audio. Plus, did we mention it’s also waterproof?

Key features:

  • Offers 12 hours of battery life
  • Bluetooth wireless range of 30 feet
  • SoundLink Flex tested to meet waterproof standards

08

Tineco iFloor3 cordless wet dry vacuum cleaner

$319 (usually $548.99), Amazon

DEAL: 42% off

Delivering up to 30 minutes of uninterrupted run time, the Tineco iFloor3 cordless stick vacuum will make Sunday chores a non-issue. Its vacuum mop two-in-one design means you can vacuum and wash floors simultaneously. Plus, with its powerful yet quiet 150W brushless motor, you’ll be asking yourself why it’s taken you so long to upgrade your existing vacuum…

Key features:

  • 30 minute battery life for uninterrupted cleaning
  • Vacuum and mop at once
  • 150W brushless digital motor
  • Lightweight and portable

09

Roborock Q Revo robot vacuum and mop

$899 (usually $1299), Amazon

DEAL: 31% off

This robot vacuum and mop from Roborock has everything you need from a robot vacuum – and more. Equipped with 5500Pa extreme suction power, you’ll never find a speck of dust in the house ever again.

Key features:

  • Vacuum and mop capabilities
  • Advanced app and voice control
  • Auto mop lifting

10

Owala FreeSip insulated stainless steel water bottle with straw in Mandalorian

$56.58 (usually $64.24), Amazon

DEAL: 12% off

If you’ve been searching high and low for a high-quality insulated bottle (with a straw), this is the one for you. Owala needs no introduction, but this water bottle has been taking the internet by storm – and with good reason. With an average 4.6 star rating from 12,564 reviews on Amazon, this Owala bottle features the bottle’s iconic FreeSip spout and push-button lid lock design.

The patented FreeSip design is essentially a ‘built-in’ straw within your bottle. It allows you to sip (like a straw) or use it as a normal bottle by tilting the bottle back as you take a drink. Plus, the double-walled insulation helps keep your drinks cold for up to 24 hours.

Key features:

  • Patented FreeSip design
  • Double-wall insulation
  • Push-button lid lock design

The post These are our top picks for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1053708 ecovacs-robot-vacuum-2 instant-pot-air-fryer nutri-bullet instant-pot-1 garment-steamer hydroflask bose-bluetooth-speaker tineco-vacuum-1 roborock-1 owala (3) How to organise your pantry (and keep it organised) for a clutter-free life Modern white kitchen with pendant lights, rattan chairs, plants, and bread on a large island countertop. homebeautiful-1053708