The couple, who met on the fifth season of The Bachelor Australia, found their dream oceanfront makeover property on the South Coast of New South Wales—a beloved holiday location for Sydneysiders.

“A couple of months ago we bought a dilapidated old house down the south coast,” the couple shared on Instagram, describing the property as “a little glass house on the seaside filled with stories, and history that had been left locked up and empty for the past two years, known as Chante Mer (sing the sea).”

The house boasts an enviable oceanfront location in Ulladulla, a small coastal town on the New South Wales South Coast, and is only a few moments from the popular and family-friendly Racecourse Beach.

For Matty and Laura, who share daughters Marlie-Mae and Lola, the home’s dreamy coastal location and renovation opportunities are all part of its appeal.

“The south coast is a magical place to us, it’s where we got married, and now it’s where we will make memories as a family,” they shared in their Instagram post.

“We don’t know what we are doing, or what this house will become, but if you want to follow along the chaos @chante.mer.house while we restore this old beauty, honour it’s joyous little quirks and resist the millennial urge to paint everything white.”

While perhaps in need of a facelift, the property’s unique original features are part of its charm and to our relief, don’t seem to be something the family are planning of getting rid of.

Worth around A$2.2 million, the seaside home is a certainly a valuable addition to Matty and Laura’s growing property portfolio, which also includes a $5.2 million semi-detached home in North Bondi.

Before and after: Chante Mer house

After months of renovation updates, in March 2025 Matty and Laura revealed some highly satisfying before-and-after shots of Chante Mer House.

“The glow up! Some cheeky Before/After photos of where we started and where we are headed. Inching closer every day,” they said.

The living area has been completely refreshed, featuring new timber floors, an updated fireplace façade, and a striking ceiling makeover.

“And for my next trick to enrage the masses… THE SPEW TILES!” Laura joked, striking a dramatic pose with the fireplace tiles before they went up.

In the ‘After’ shot, the fireplace tiles create a colourful focal point. Matty and Laura’s tile choices have sparked plenty of debate, but the pair haven’t shied away from bold decisions. “Tile gate has started…” they joked in a post revealing the fireplace progress.

“A little update from when the tile stair risers were going in,” they shared alongside the tiled steps. “I am heading down to the house this weekend and can’t wait to see what progress has been made over the last two weeks. We finally have our wooden stairs installed and I’m counting down the days until our beautiful stone bench tops are going in… so close.”

The stairs now feel lighter and more open thanks to the removal of the nib walls, while playful checkerboard tiles add a punch of personality to both the steps and landing.

Gone is the carpet, making way for pale timber floors that flood the space with light and offer a crisp, contemporary edge to those breathtaking views.

The renovation process

Laura and Matty J have started sharing the renovation process on their Instagram page and while Laura’s ideas for earthy coloured patterned tiles on the fireplace wasn’t appreciated by viewers, people have been more excited by the fact the couple are planning to keep the stunning stained glass on their front doors.

“If the beige brigade come for these doors… I will riot,” Lauran wrote. “These old beauties are staying, but the big question is do we strip them back to all wood, or paint white?”

The second decision the couple are currently discussing is what colour to pain the bedroom walls.

On Instagram, they shared that Matty wants a salmon pink as a “testament to the sea life in the ocean” while Laura wants an off white with a feature door.

After testing the pink, Matty admitted that maybe Laura’s idea was the winner.

When it came to deciding the colour of the bedroom cupboard doors, the couple’s two daughters put the sea green and bright yellow shades to the test.

We’re excited to see what colours they end up settling on.

The kitchen

While the rest of the property offers plenty of opportunity for Matty and Laura to make the home their own, we were hoping that the couple would choose to preserve the kitchen’s unique tiling and wood cabinetry.

The couple have shared that unfortunately, the kitchen tiles were too damaged to preserve and have lead to a full kitchen rip out. While we did love the wood cabinetry, we’re also excited by their decision to remove the servery window and shelving to make the most of the incredible sea views.

The most recent picture of the kitchen came as a delightful surprise to those who expressed sadness at the home’s original features being ripped out. Fortunately, the couple have seemed to have embraced the home’s mid-century aesthetic with their choice of slick wood cabinetry and terracotta shade of tiles.

The bathrooms

While the original upstairs bathroom may have been very pretty in pink, it felt a little dated with a number of design flaws—including having a bidet in the room next to the toilet.

After lots of thought, Matty J and Laura have decided to remove the bath altogether and replace it with a spacious double shower, sharing that this will be a “bath-less house.” It also looks like they’ve opted for a modern type of shower storage, with a shower bench visible in their update pictures.

Colour-wise, the couple have gone for a muted green palette with striped green and white tiles from Tile Cloud covering the room from floor to ceiling.

The bathrooms all tie in with the couple’s chosen interior style, yet they’ve chosen not to go completely matchy-matchy. The second bathroom embraces floor-to-ceiling zellige tiles with statement wave design tiles on the floor.

In a second bathroom, the couple have opted for a pretty pink aesthetic with a wavy tiled floor and more neutral tiled walls.

See inside Matty J and Laura Byrne’s Ulladulla holiday property

Matty and Laura’s new holiday house is located on a generous 746 square metre block with a sun-soaked deck and thriving front garden overlooking the sea.

There also seems to be a sweet summer house (or perhaps future children’s cubby) in front of the main home.

Likewise, this quirky breakfast nook with original wood banquet seating is an opportunity to embrace the unique character of the home.

Almost every room boasts enviable ocean views, including this spacious lounge area that opens out onto the deck and front garden.

However, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a study area, the property offers plenty of places of play—just look at those floor to ceiling windows in the master bedroom.

At the back of the house, there’s also an enclosed alfresco area, which we’re sure will see its fair share of late summer barbeques and children’s parties in the years to come.

With such an opportunity to turn this characterful property into something special, we’re excited to see what they do with it.

The post The first before-and-after shots of Matty J and Laura’s home makeover are in appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“It’s a mishmash of poor, cheap materials that are uncoordinated. There’s a lack of basic environmental design,” Thalis later explained news.com.au. “That’s a west facade. You want to be shading the western side. You don’t want a black brick, you don’t want a black roof.”

Darker materials, which are regularly used in these new development estates and builds, absorb heat, rather than deflect it. A recent article from The Conversation, which discussed the Jordan Springs new development estate in Sydney’s suburb of Penrith, found that the estate’s use of concrete, asphalt and dark, poor quality building materials may put “residents at risk” in future heatwaves and leave them “dependent on increasingly expensive air conditioning.”

Yet, these new build estates also address the country’s housing shortage and affordability problem, with rising house prices leaving many Australians simply unable to afford a similarly sized home in a more established suburb.

So, if you’re one of the many Australians building a home in a new development estate, you might be wondering how you avoid these common design problems and make your home as liveable and future-proof as possible. We’ve spoken to Professor of Architecture and Urbanism, Duanfang Lu from the University of Sydney and The Block architect Julian Brenchley of Group Architects, to find out.

7 problems with your new development estate home—and how to fix them

1. Low quality construction materials

As a form of mass produced housing, new development estates may rely on more affordable building materials, which are rarely the best quality.

“Some homes might not be built with long-term durability in mind, leading to issues such as water leaks, cracks, or poor insulation,” Duanfang Lu explains. “Lack of attention to detail during construction might also result in poor finishes.”

If you can, Lu recommends opting for higher quality construction materials to “avoid problems in the future.”

2. Indoor air pollution

Lower quality construction materials may also impact indoor air quality. According to Lu, this is to do with something called volatile organic compounds (VOC), which can be emitted from certain building materials.

“New homes may sometimes have poor indoor air quality, particularly due to the use of materials that off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOC). These pollutants can lead to respiratory issues and affect general health. Inadequate ventilation systems can exacerbate these problems, trapping pollutants inside,” explains Lu.

For this reason, its important to opt for homes built with low-VOC materials—including within the paint, adhesives, flooring and other finishes.

Poor ventilation and insulation also commonly lead to mould and mildew growth, which can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and exacerbate conditions such as asthma.
“The house should have adequate ventilation to ensure that fresh air circulates throughout,” Lu says.

“Design the home with open windows or ventilation gaps on opposite sides of rooms (cross-ventilation) to allow good natural air movement.”

Duanfang Lu, Professor of Architecture and Urbanism, University of Sydney

“Design the home with open windows or ventilation gaps on opposite sides of rooms (cross-ventilation) to allow good natural air movement.”

“Natural light from windows, skylights, and glass doors makes rooms feel open and bright. A well-lit space can improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression,” Lu says.

3. Dysfunctional layouts

House and land packages will usually offer you a selection of pre-approved home designs to choose from but Lu says that its important to consider the functionality of the designs that are offered before you sign the dotted line.

“Some new estates might have layouts that are not as functional as expected, leading to issues with space, privacy, or flow within homes,” says Lu.

“A well-designed home should have balanced proportions, where the size and placement of windows, doors, and walls are in harmony. It should also carefully consider how the space is arranged and how the rooms relate to each other. Homes that seamlessly connect to the outdoors, through large windows, sliding doors or patios, enhance the feeling of openness and natural light. Flexible design features can allow you to expand or reconfigure your space easily as your needs change over time, such as adaptable floor plans or external space for future building.”

4. Lack of character and personality

One of the biggest problems with new development estate homes is their lack of character and personality but the recent James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast 2025 proves that modern homes don’t need to be “dull grey boxes.”

Julian Brenchely believes that the key to moving away from this colder, less appealing aesthetic is to “bring personality, texture, and warmth into new builds.” More specifically, The Block architect points to the modern ‘Barn’ design as an example of how to do this well.

“New interpretations of the Barn play with asymmetry in the rooflines, breaking away from rigid, predictable forms. Bold exterior colours, combined with natural-look materials, create striking yet inviting facades,” Brenchley explains.

“Inside, it’s all about warmth and simplicity—soft textures, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on natural elements help achieve that feeling of hygge (hoo-gah), a Danish concept centered around comfort and wellbeing. But beyond just aesthetics, the Barn design is about championing wellness.”

Even if you don’t have complete design freedom with your new build, there are plenty of ways to add character with some clever design choices.

• Add pannelling to your walls
• Install built-in-furniture, such as bookshelves
• Switch out your flooring for warm timber floors
• Embrace wallpaper
• Swap your white walls for colour
• Install interesting tiles in the kitchen and bathroom
• Decorate with patterned cushions, lamps and curtains
• Bring unique artworks and vintage furniture into the home

How to personalise your new build

5. Unsustainable designs

As rising temperatures and extreme weather events become more common in Australia, we need to think about future-proofing our homes in terms of structural resilience and future sustainability.

“Not all houses prioritize eco-friendly designs, resulting in homes that are not energy-efficient,” says Lu. “Ensure the home is built with energy-efficient systems like good insulation, energy-efficient windows, and renewable energy sources (solar panels, heat pumps, etc.). Smart technology features like smart thermostats, lighting, and security systems can also make the home more convenient, secure, and energy-efficient.”

“Building resilient homes for the future isn’t just about strength, it’s about smart, passive design that works with the environment rather than against it.”

Julian Brenchely, Principal Architect, Group Architects

Barn-style homes are a great example of this approach. Relatively shallow building depth for cross ventilation, deep canopy eaves and shading devices like HEKA hoods are essential for handling Australia’s intense sun, keeping interiors cool without over-relying on air conditioning. Double-skin lightweight walls, combined with high performance proper insulation and sarking, help maintain stable internal temperatures year-round. ”

If you live in an area that’s vulnerable to climate emergencies then Brenchely also recommends cladding for weather resistence, and steel frames and non-combustible external cladding for fire resilience.

6. Lack of outdoor space

The blocks found in new development estates tend to be much smaller than the traditional quarter-acre block found in Australia’s older suburbs—and generally these smaller blocks are taken up by more house than garden.

While you can definitely make the most of a small space with some smart landscaping, it’s also worth checking out how much access to nature your estate offers. If you don’t have a big backyard then you will benefit from having access to parks and local walking tracks.

7. Remote location

The often remote location of new development estates can make life more difficult.

“Some neighbourhoods are far away from cafes, parks, schools, healthcare services, or retail outlets, which can lead to frustration for new homeowners,” explains Lu.

Before purchasing a house in a new development estate, its important to learn about its local amenities and how well connected it is to the rest of the community. A nearby train station will make your daily commute easier than one that requires you to join a major highway to get to the nearest shops.

Having access to a shopping centre and a couple of cafes within the estate will also benefit you down the track.

The post 7 problems that can come with a new development estate home (and how to fix them)  appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Choosing the right bunk bed is another task altogether. Whether you’re after a sweet Scandinavian-inspired wooden bunk to decorate with lights and bunting, or simply something to squeeze as much sleeping space into a bedroom as it can, when it comes to bunk beds there are options for almost every age, interior style and need.

The top bunk beds to buy in 2025

01

Sonata Bunk Bed

from $499.99, Mocka

Best for: vintage-inspired bedrooms, older children

With their powder-coated steel frame and vintage-inspired design, these sweet bunk beds will bring a whimsical vibe into your child’s bedroom.

Sizes: 160cm x 100cm x 198cm

Colours: White/Black

Materials: Steel

Key features:

• Top bunk recommended for ages 9 and over
• Fits 2 x standard size single mattress
• Powder-coated finish

Shop now

02

BOORI NATTY Maxi Bunk Bed with Shelves

from $1,999, Freedom

Best for: neutral fans, younger children

These Scandinavian-inspired bunk beds embrace functional design with their removable bottom bunk, offering a fun loft bed option when desired.

Conveniently, the wide steps also double as plastic storage tubs for toys and other items.

Sizes: 180 cm x 264 cm x 140 cm

Colours: Beige/White

Materials: Australian Araucaria timber, LVL timber, plywood

Key features:

• Bedside shelf for easy item access
• Removable bottom bunk for loft option
• Stairs with plastic storage and handrail

Available at:

• $1,529 from Temple & Webster

Shop now

03

Springfield Bunk Bed Single Over Double

from $1,449, Freedom

Best for: guest rooms, extra sleeping space, teens

With a double bed on the lower bunk, single bed top bunk and an additional double trundle bed, this bunk bed offers plenty of sleeping space for sleepovers or visiting families.

Sizes: 154.5 cm x 201 cm x 169.7 cm

Colours: White

Materials: Rubber wood

Key features:

• Lower bunk fits a standard double bed mattress
• Classic Hamptons aesthetic
• Includes double trundle bed

Shop Now

04

Oslo Convertible Single Bunk Bed with Wardrobe

from $1,049 (usually $1,099), Temple & Webster

Best for: convertible design, all ages

With its clever convertible design, this bunk bed can be adjusted to the layout of your children’s bedroom.

Alongside the beds, the bunk also features a cabinet with a height-adjustable shelf and hidden wardrobe storage.

Sizes: 160 cm x 136 cm x 255.1 cm

Colours: Light Timber, White

Materials: Manufactured timber

Key features:

• L-shaped corner bunk bed
• 1-door wardrobe included
• 2 configurations available

Shop Now

05

Light Timber Grace Low Line Single Bunk Bed

$697 (usually $749), Temple & Webster

Best for: neutral fans, younger children

Sitting close to the ground, this bunk’s low-line design is not only safe for younger children, but also helpful for the adults making the bed.

Sizes: 112.6cm x 114.5cm

Colours: Timber/White

Materials: Timber-look

Key features:

• Large, easy-to-climb steps
• Low-line bunks
• Furntech-AFRDI certified

Shop Now

06

Boston Grey Snow Bunk Beds

$1,399, Adairs

Best for: contemporary design, siblings

Featuring soft boucle fabrication and and a contemporary wooden frame, this stylish bunk will fit effortlessly into any children’s bedroom.

Perfect for siblings, the low-line bottom bunk is safe for younger ones while the higher top bunk is guaranteed to please the older ones.

Sizes: 104cm x 205.5cm x 172.5cm

Colours: Grey and Brown

Materials: Boucle, wood

Key features:

• Soft boucle fabrication
• Handles at the top of ladder
• Top and bottom single beds

Shop Now

07

Dante 2-in-1 Solid Pine Timber Bunk Bed

$359 (usually $599), Luxo Living

Best for: neutral, versatility

Made of natural wood, these bunk beds don’t just look good but are extremely durable and strong as well. With the ability to come apart when your children outgrow the bunks or simply want a change, they will last you for many years to come.

Sizes: 203 x 98.5 x 156cm

Colours: Natural

Materials: 100% Solid pine wood

Key features:

• 150kg bed weight capacity on each bunk
• Ladder included
• Convertible design

Shop Now

08

Oakley Single Over Double Bunk Bed

$599, Temple & Webster

Best for: classic style, space saving

These bunks have a stylish panelled wood look that’s both cosy and classic. With a double bed on the bottom and single on the top, the bed provides plenty of space for siblings or children’s friends staying over.

Sizes: 159cm H x 148cm W x 198cm D

Colours: White

Materials: Pine wood & MDF frame

Key features:

• Pannelled look
• Solid wood
• Easy clean

Shop Now

Are bunk beds safe?

Bunk beds are a safe sleeping option as long as they are designed and used safely.

Luckily, all bunk beds sold in Australia have to comply with the national safety standards, which require the top bunk to have guardrails and that the gaps between guardrails are 3.5 inches or less.

It’s also worth noting that the Red Nose Foundation recommends that children shouldn’t use the top bunk before the age of 9.

It’s also a good idea to place the bunk beds in the corner of the room, making the most of the support from the walls on either side.

Other safety measures include placing a nightlight near the ladder and, most importantly, educating your children about bunk bed safety and not letting them play on the top bunk of the bed.

How much weight can a bunk bed hold?

The weight that a bunk bed can hold really depends on an individual bed’s design and the construction materials used to make it.

However, most bunk beds will support 80kg on the top bunk and at least 160kg on the lower.

The best way to check is to refer to your bunk bed’s manual.

Related article:

• Recreate The Block’s winning kids’ bedrooms
• How to design the perfect kids room
• Storage solutions that will stop kids’ toys taking over the house

The post Eight bunk beds that both you and your child will love appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Photos and family heirlooms

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

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

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

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

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.

The post This is what your home decor says about your personality appeared first on Home Beautiful.

So, if you’re searching for a solution for your problematic stain (don’t worry, we know there are plenty of innocent reasons for such a sight), we’re here to help. Keep reading to find out exactly how to get blood out of carpet.

Tips for getting blood out of carpet

• Act fast—try to clean up the blood stain before it dries and becomes harder to get out
• Only use cold water—hot water will produce the opposite effect, forcing the blood to thicken and set in the fibres of the carpet
• Dab the stain instead of rubbing it—rubbing will only push it deeper into the carpet

The best way to get blood out of carpet

1. Apply cold water to the blood stain
2. Dab the bloodstain with a clean rag
3. Repeat until the blood stain has been removed
4. Allow the area to air dry or dry with a fresh, dry rag

If the stain needs a little extra help then you can repeat this process, this time using a dishwashing liquid and cold water solution. Simply add a few drops of dishwashing liquid to some cold water and blot at the stain.

How to get dried blood out of carpet

If the blood stain is very stubborn, or has already dried, then you might need a stronger cleaning option, such as hydrogen peroxide or a baking soda and water paste.

Before using a hydrogren peroxide solution, its important to test the solution on a very small, discreet area of the carpet to make sure that it doesn’t cause any discolouration. If you deem it suitable, you can apply a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to the blood stain and let it sink in for a few minutes. Then dab the stain with a clean cloth until it has completely dissapeared.

If your carpet does react to hydrogen peroxide, or you simply prefer a gentler solution, then a baking soda and water mix is your next best bet. To make this solution, combine baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Then, apply the paste straight onto the stain and let it sit for around half an hour, before starting the cold water method from the beginning.

The post How to get blood out of carpet appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Covering cottage, farmhouse and classic design styles, this kitchen aesthetic can be adapted to suit your own style and taste. If you’re thinking about designing your own traditional kitchen (or simply enjoy dreaming about having one), these are some of the best country kitchens to feature within the pages of Home Beautiful magazine.

A classic country kitchen

This sweet country kitchen belongs to a modern farmhouse-style property in Melbourne. The kitchen’s traditional timber beams, warm wall panelling, sweet sink skirt, and carefully curated vintage household items make it the perfect example of a classic rural-style kitchen. We particularly love the choice of blue cabinetry, which gives the space a delightful pop of colour while setting it apart from other kitchens of the same style.

see the full home tour

A modern farmhouse country kitchen

Modern farmhouse kitchens are known for their oversized nature and this kitchen certainly meets that criteria. With two kitchen islands, two ovens, an abundance of storage and those soaring high ceilings, this kitchen is a space to gather with family and friends, and cook up a true farmhouse feast.

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A cosy cottage kitchen

This kitchen’s stained-glass windows, traditional Aga cooker, copper kettle and old wooden butcher’s block-style workbench make it feel like something from another era. However, a few modern updates, including a Quantum Quartz benchtop, undermounted Chambord sink and a lick of fresh paint, have modernised the cottage kitchen without taking away its character.

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A country kitchen with practical storage

Rural-style kitchens may have a reputation for open storage, but this cleverly designed cooking space proves that you can enjoy the comfort of open storage without the visual clutter. An antique Chippendale-style corner cabinet, vintage oil painting and terracotta flower pot add a little country charm into the stylish space.

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A petite country kitchen

This small and ever-so-sweet country kitchen doesn’t feel so tiny thanks to the high sloping ceilings, functional furnishings and abundance of natural light. The blend of cream, white and timber gives the space its classic country charm, while the original wood stove offers a practical heating solution.

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A polished country kitchen

Adriana and Casey Stoner’s modern country kitchen enjoys the classic country features of a big kitchen island, butler’s pantry and gas cooktop with a more polished edge. Opting for bright whites and antique pops of gold, this traditional kitchen shows that you don’t need a rustic finish to enjoy those classic country comforts in a contemporary way.

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A French country kitchen

Antique copper pots, jars of wooden spoons and potted herbs line the benchtops of this Vancouver country kitchen in Canada. Taking its inspiration from the kitchens of elegant French estates, the kitchen completely heralds its antique finds with exposed shelving, while other items are hidden away within an oversized kitchen island, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and a practical butler’s pantry.

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A contemporary farmhouse with a showstopping island

This contemporary farmhouse kitchen in Queensland is built around a showstopping kitchen island, complete with industrial-style bar stools for each member of this family of six. The raked ceiling, rustic Blackbutt floorboards and pendant lights complete the modern farmhouse look.

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A colourful country kitchen

This country kitchen embraces colour with its deep blue joinery, emereld hand-glazed tiles and a vintage patterned rug. The Ikea Havsen sink bowl, stained glass windows, and cottage style furnishings, including the blue patterned jug and green lampshade, add to the country character.

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A country kitchen inspired by nature

The owner of this modern country kitchen was drawn to a more earthy palette and opted for dusty green Polytec cabinets in Snowgum, which resemble the silvery green of the trees outside. Blackbutt timber floors, a tandem island and table, as well as shaker-style cabinetry elevate the stylish space.

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A coastal country kitchen

This country kitchen carefully blends coastal elements into its traditional farmhouse design. Rather than timber or tiles on the floor, matt white polished concrete speckled with aggregate is the foundation for the open-plan space. The informal dining nook is also a relaxed addition to the room.

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A refined country kitchen that blends Georgian and Hamptons styles

Leaning into more English elements design, gives this this Hamptons kitchen a more country feel than coastal.

“I steered away from blue – often the Hamptons go-to – and chose an earthy look, with black and warm grey accents,” says the home owner. “I also opted for dark oak floors to ground the space and complement the traditional feel of the house.”

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A country kitchen that blends tradition with modernity

With its cathedral ceilings and solid French oak flooring from Enoak, this cottage’s kitchen is a drawcard for gatherings with family and friends. Interior design studio Birch & Moss worked with Class Kitchens and Joinery to create a space that hinted at traditional style but still felt modern with the inclusion of integrated appliances.

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The post 13 country kitchens that have us considering a tree change appeared first on Home Beautiful.

20 kitchens with timber flooring to inspire your renovation

A Hamptons style kitchen with engineered timber floors

This Hamptons style kitchen is elevated by its engineered timber floors in colour 28 from French Oak Floors. The darker timber brings warmth into the all-white space without sacrificing the light and airy feel of the room.

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Herringbone timber floors add elegance to a modern coastal retreat

This modern coastal home replaced its dated grey tiles with herringbone timber flooring. The maison engineered timber in Paramount Oak from George Fethers & Co brings a sense of elegance to the coastal-inspired space.

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Dark oak flooring brings balance to a Hamptons kitchen in Melbourne

Taking inspiration from Hamptons interiors, this kitchen’s Dark ‘Saddle’ French oak flooring from Made By Storey brings balance to the lighter white and grey shades.

“It has raw knots and detail, giving it a warmth that plays against the lovely soft grey,” says interior designer Aimee Tarulli. “It brings the Hamptons feel to life and gives the cosiness we want.”

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Wide timber floorboards add character to a new build

New builds don’t have to be cold and souless. Clever design choices, like this American-inspired kitchen’s wide timber floorboards, can add character and warmth to newer homes.

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Bec Judd’s chevron timber floors make a style statement

Bec Judd’s home is just as stylish as you might imagine—and the kitchen is no different. Finished in Haymes Paint Judd Soft Grey, the kitchen’s chevron timber floors in Nordic Blonde from Kustom Timber make a dramatic style statement.

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Engineered timber flooring is right at home in this Parisian inspired apartment

With its elegant finish, this Oak ‘White Sands’ engineered flooring from Preference Floors is the perfect choice for this Parisian inspired apartment in Sydney.

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Timber floorboards give this heritage home a modern update

Contemporary timber floorboards in the kitchen of this Melbourne heritage property set the modern extension apart from the older part of the home.

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Pale oak parquetry flooring gives this home a quiet luxury edge

With its pale oak parquetry flooring, solid Carrara marble kitchen, dramatic steel-framed windows and French doors, this Melbourne kitchen exudes quiet luxury.

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Dark timber flooring creates contrast in this ultra modern kitchen

Dark timber flooring, from Kustom Timber, laid in a chevron pattern acts as a forgiving base to the show-stopping half-moon island in Buddy and Jacinta Franklin’s modern kitchen.

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Blackbutt floorboards elevate the Shaker-style kitchen in this weatherboard cottage

In this Shaker-style kitchen, Blackbutt floorboards have been given a custom stain to achieve the dark finish the home owner wanted, forming a base for the welcoming space.

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Oak floors warm up the light interiors of this new build

Aiming for a classic look with a casual elegance, this home’s oak floors warm up its light interiors and bring a country spirit to the space.

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Chocolate brown stained cypress pine floors brighten this country home

Just as three oversized skylights draw natural light into this country cottage kitchen, the rich chocolate brown stained cypress pine floors also bring a brightness into the space.

“I love the colour – it just really pops against the white,” says the home owner.

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Dark timber floors add a country charm into this modern farmhouse style kitchen

Dark timber floors bring a warmth and country charm into this modern farmhouse style kitchen, contrasting beautifully with the white kitchen cabinets and marble benchtops.

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A beach house kitchen is grounded by solid blackbutt flooring

Acting as an idyllic hideaway for several generations of the one family, this beach house kitchen is the hub of the home. With the beachy white cabinetry, solid blackbutt flooring is a grounding choice.

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French oak engineered parquetry flooring is the perfect base for this holiday-inspired retreat on the Gold Coast

This family of six pooled their wish list to create their ultimate, holiday-inspired retreat on Queensland’s Gold Coast. The French Oak engineered parquetry flooring acts as the perfect base for the natural furnishings and resort-style interiors.

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A coastal cottage opts for light and bright herringbone timber flooring

Evoking the easy breeziness of a coastal cottage, the kitchen is a delightful combination of white and timber. Oak benchtops, Modanest stools and luxe herringbone flooring by Royal Oak Floors bring warmth to the shaker-style cabinetry in Dulux Lexicon Quarter, white Smeg oven and pre-painted pressed tin tiles sourced online.

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Warm timber flooring completes this Hamptons-inspired kitchen on Sydney’s northern beaches

‘Newport Rustic’ flooring from Havwoods provides the right warming timber tones for this Hamptons-inspired kitchen on Sydney’s northern beaches.

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Engineered oak timber floors are a natural continuation of this home’s organic feel

Big River Group engineered oak timber floors in Desert bring warmth and texture to the serene kitchen within the organic style home of Simone Mathews.

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Oak floorboards set the tone for this functional kitchen

A 19th-Century home on Sydney’s Lower North Shore delivers lashings of elegance and functionality for a family of five. Oak veneer was chosen for the island base to match the elegant oak floorboards from Woodos seen throughout the kitchen and the ground floor.

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Timber tones extend beyond the floor in this Northern Rivers home

Timber tones extend beyond the floor in this Northern Rivers home, with the island shelving, stools and cabintry all boasting the natural material and bringing a relaxed energy to the space.

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The post 20 kitchens that prove timber floorboards are the right choice appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Eventually, a new spiral staircase will extend from the original building into this tunnel.

There’s still a long way to go, with two years of building expected from October 2024, but the excavation of the tunnel is a significant step towards their grand plans for the place.

The couple bought the 150-year-old property for $8.5 million in 2021 and are now in the process of turning the crumbling mansion into their dream home.

“Mum saw a story about the house on the news – she filmed it off the TV and sent it to me with the message, ‘I think I’ve found your new home’ as a joke,” Andy told The Australian Women’s Weekly.

“We were out looking at another house, and sort of joked with one another, ‘Let’s drive past that weird place your mum showed us,’ and by chance it was open,” his fiancée, Bec, added.

“We stepped inside and looked at one another like, ‘Whoa … ’ We both had the same feeling – that feeling people tell you about when they find the perfect property. Something just felt so right and we’d never had that feeling before.”

The mansion, which is known locally as Ravenswood, occupies a prime position on the Yarra River with its own access to the water.

However, while the property comes with a desirable location, generous block size and desirable heritage features, the house had been sitting vacant for more than a decade before Andy and Bec snapped it up, and was in dire need of a restoration.

But the amount of work needed to restore this historic property to its former glory hasn’t seemed to put off Andy and Bec, who even got engaged inside the house.

After 10 years together, Andy chose the Hawthorn property as the location to propose to Bec by getting down on one knee while pretending to get something out of the marble fireplace.

The couple later posted to their renovation Instagram account with a picture of them sharing a romantic picnic in the garden with a red ring box clearly visible on the rug.

Now the renovations have officially begun, and you can bet that we’re watching every second of this exciting project.

The history of Hawthorn’s Ravenswood mansion

Located at 18 Yarra Grove, Hawthorn, Ravenswood is one of several impressive Victorian properties in Hawthorn’s exclusive Rookery Estate precinct.

The property was built in 1876 for a ship’s chandler named Alexander Tough, and at the time looked like an extremely grand home with a wrought iron balcony with columns, frieze and balustrade, as well as sash windows and a romantic arching trellis in the front garden.

The veranda was sadly removed by one of the home’s previous owners, and the lower floor windows have since been converted to doors.

Even in its state of disrepair, the property’s generous 1950 square metre riverfront block, eight bedrooms and unique heritage features offer obvious potential for a transformational renovation.

With the original baltic floor boards, open fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, slate roof and high ceilings still intact, the home is certainly a renovator’s dream come true.

And it seems like Andy and Bec weren’t the only ones to think so, with a reported 80 parties viewing the home before its eventual sale.

“We had a lot of interest from families looking to do a more simple restoration through to grander schemes,” listing agent Antony Woodley of Jellis Craig shared with realestate.com.au.

After two years of planning and receiving council approval for their renovation plans, the works have finally begun and we’re guessing Andy and Bec are in the “grander schemes” camp…

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding’s plans for the historic Hawthorn house

Andy and Bec have been open about their plans for the property, even posting a picture of their desired outcome on Instagram for the audience following them on their renovation journey.

With the help of the architects from Flack Studio and Visioneer builders, the couple are planning to turn Ravenswood into two separate properties connected by an underground tunnel, with the plan to live in the newer build.

“We gave the architects a few broad rules,” the pair shared on Instagram, “1. Honour the old house. 2. We’d like to live in the new.”

“Flack Studio came up with this. The historic house sits proudly on its own and will be restored. The new part makes the most of the river views. All connected underground below the piazza.”

According to News.com.au, the intended works will cost the couple an additional $5 million, with their plans including a 97sqm main bedroom, as well as a pool, theatre, gym, golf simulator and reported ‘waiting room’ for guests.

The renovation progress

Since starting their renovations, the couple have been sharing the journey with 153,000 followers via their dedicated renovation Instagram account.

The interior

While boasting some ornate heritage features, the interiors of the home have needed a lot of work, with the couple even sharing that parts of the ceiling have been falling down.

“Due to the chimney being removed and never replaced, rain water has poured in causing the ceiling to collapse,” the couple shared on Instagram alongside a picture of Andy and their dog Henri, who has been getting some “joy” from jumping in the rubble.

A few weeks later, Andy shared another post of the property’s caved in ceiling with the caption. “I guess we’ll save some costs on demolition if the house continues to demolish itself. Just arrived to see more of the ceiling caved in. Even Henri seems a little perturbed by it.”

However, the couple recently shared an update after they discovered some incredible original beams within the ceiling in the upper floor of the house.

“The ceiling plaster was so water damaged that it all comes out exposing [these] incredible original beams that most likely came from Norway as ship’s ballast,” the couple wrote on Instagram. “I guess we can now say the house is “made in Scandinavia” which sounds rather fancy.”

The plans also include removing some of the walls on the upper floor of the property to create a new layout that will make the most of the floor-to-ceiling windows and their view to the garden. Framing for the second floor was reinstalled in January 2024, with Andy explaining, “The original walls and floors had to be removed due to water damage, sadly. Still, it lasted 149 years. This one is going to last another 300 minimum!”

In another update, Bec shared that they had cut in a front door and some windows on the street side of the building, and that they are planning to add a spiral staircase in as well.

Some of the couple’s followers have expressed their disappointment about some of the renovation choices, which include removing an original staircase and some of the original fireplaces.

The couple have, however, maintained that they will be keeping some of the home’s unique features, including this ‘widow’s window’ porthole, which “is not staying” in its current position but for which they will “find a place” somewhere else in the home.

Andy and Bec have also shared the more unique curiosities that the renovation has unearthed, including seaweed in the roof, which at one point in time was used for insulation.

The garden

When Andy and Bec bought Ravenswood, the property’s garden was wild and overgrown, while arguably beautiful to look at. A consultation with a landscape gardener revealed that “most of the trees and bushes on the property were dying given no one had lived here for nearly 40 years”.

For this reason, the couple have decided to remove a lot of the original garden and start planting from scratch — with the exception being this gorgeous oak tree, which they’re saving.

“This huge oak was a must keep for us!” Andy and Bec wrote on Instagram. “It looks like the giant monster from Stranger Things reaching down to grab Bec and Henri in winter, but is stunning in spring and summer.”

The couple shared that they have decided to buy “all of the trees now so they can grow off site and we’ll have mature trees when we move in”. These trees include Jacarandas, Oaks and Yellow Gums. Showing the sheer size of this home transformation, in October four mature trees bought by Andy and Bec in the Yarra Valley, needed a 50m crane to lift them over construction and into place at the rear of the site.

Another recent update to the exterior of the property is the couple’s driveway, with Andy shared that they have “10 trucks a day taking the rock away” and recently walked the site on Instagram, where we got a glimpse into just why they’re removing all of that rock. The scope of the golf simulator – which will include a home bar adjacent – is enormous and located deep underneath the newly built section by way of an underground garage and in-ground swimming pool.

We’re certainly excited to see what they do next.

The post Inside Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding’s historic ‘Ravenswood’ mansion renovation appeared first on Home Beautiful.

If you’re about to embark on a kitchen renovation, here are five kitchen design trends that we’re not entirely convinced of (yet).

1. Servery windows

The past few years have seen a rise in the popularity of servery windows and while these cafe-inspired openings do look sweet, their overall practicality is still in question. Their main purpose is to facilitate an indoor-outdoor connection, helping the person in the kitchen pass food to and socialise with the people outside. However, for this to work, you really have to have great weather and a lack of insects — two things that rarely happen at the same time.

That said, if you’re a regular entertainer and have young kids always needing a snack while they’re playing outside, then maybe they are the perfect design feature for you. This was the case for interior designer Melinda Hartwright, who incorporated this sweet servery window in her grand Southern Highlands home for her young family of five. Finished with a trio of bar stools and a custom bi-fold window, it now offers the perfect link between the family’s indoor and outdoor areas.

2. Butler’s pantries

Whether you use them to store your bulky appliances, prep food or hide your dishes, butler’s pantries have become a popular way to keep our kitchen mess of the sight. While it sounds good in theory, people have started to question the purpose of your actual kitchen if the butler’s pantry is where you ‘do all the dirty work’. Does your kitchen just become a showpiece?

While some people might find the butler’s pantry life changing, others just end up with another room to clean. There’s also the consideration of the additional space that a butler’s pantry can take up, which could be used for extra pantry or cupboard storage, and of course the extra money that goes into creating a second, smaller kitchen.

If you do have the floor space, funds and appetite to include a butler’s pantry, take cues from this smart design by Studio Belle, which helped keep a lid on costs. Instead of repeating the stone used on the main kitchen splashback, budget-friendly zellige-look porcelain tiles grace the splashback in the butler’s pantry. And for a classic yet cost-effective finish, two-pack cabinetry replaces the Polytec ‘Woodmatt’ joinery in the main kitchen.

3. Pot fillers

Pot fillers are another kitchen design feature that sometimes look better than they function. While having the ability to fill up a large pot on your stovetop (without having to lug it over from the sink) is convenient, pot fillers do come with a number of inconveniences as well. Unfortunately, some pot fillers are prone to leaks, which can then damage your range and, without frequent use, they also tend to rust easily. Plus, you still need to carry the pot back to the sink to empty the water.

If you entertain frequently and enjoy cooking up a storm, you may be able to justify including a pot filler. For interior designer Lloyd Hodgkinson, who regularly hosts friends in his Queenslander home, a pot filler proved a handy addition in his maximalist kitchen renovation. In fact, he tells us the striking green space is now one of the most functional rooms in his home.

4. Instant hot-water taps

Taps that offer instant hot, chilled and sparkling water are another kitchen design feature that leaves people divided. While they might be convenient for regular tea drinkers, they can be expensive, noisy and don’t always last the distance. They also require a large amount of storage under your sink, which just simply isn’t worth it for a lot of people.

Still determined to include one? Take inspiration from interior designer Danielle Bonello-Dunsford of Danielle Victoria Design Studio, who made great use of the notoriously tricky corner cupboard space by positioning a hot-water tap nearby in this sleek, stylish kitchen.

5. Cabinets up to the ceiling

Kitchen cabinets that reach the ceiling have become more popular in recent years for their ability to provide more storage and lose the dust-collecting top. The only problem with these tall cabinets is how high they really are, with the top shelf barely accessible for anyone who isn’t six-foot tall. If you’re happy to keep a step ladder in your kitchen, or you’re a particularly tall household, then they might still be worth it.

For kitchens that aren’t blessed with a big footprint, however, tall kitchen cabinets can offer valuable extra storage, which is the case with this timeless cooking space. When you can’t extend out, extending up is a smart move — just make sure you store infrequently used items, such as seasonal platters, on the highest shelves and think of factoring a cute ladder into your kitchen design.

The post 5 kitchen design trends we’re not convinced of appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

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

• Via Stayz
• Via Airbnb

book Now

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

• Via Airbnb
• Via Booking.com

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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

• Via Booking.com
• Via Luxury Escapes

book now

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

book on Airbnb

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

book on AIRBNB

The post 5 of the best stays in Daylesford for an idyllic country escape appeared first on Home Beautiful.

‘The White Lotus’ season three filming locations

• 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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

Your art also doesn’t have to be sentimental — it can simply be an opportunity to experiment with different colours and aesthetics in your home. In recent years, vintage Italian posters of liqueurs or apéritifs (such as Aperol and Limoncello) have become popular for contemporary coastal styles, and vintage portraits and still life artworks are currently experiencing a renaissance with the rise of traditional English interior styles.

While the right piece of wall art for your home will depend entirely on your own interior style and space, we can share the pieces we currently have our eye on.

7 pieces of wall art we would buy in 2025

01

‘Banksia in a Pot’ printed wall art

$49.99-$479.99, Temple & Webster

Best for: country interiors

With its classic Australian bush colours, this gorgeous piece of botanical wall art is perfectly suited to a country home or cottage. While the soft blues, greys and greens give the piece a calming energy, the sunny yellow will brighten any room.

Key features:

• Framed wall art
• Designed by Angela Hawkey
• Multiple sizes available

Shop Now

02

Beach season artwork

$16.07, Etsy

Best for: coastal interiors

Finding the right coastal wall art can be a serious challenge, with too many pieces leaning into cliched beach motifs and visuals. However, this cool coastal artwork strikes the right balance, with its more minimalist take on a beach illustration.

Key features:

• Digital download print
• Signed by artist
• 76cm x 76cm

Shop Now

03

Female figure drawing

From $37.74, Etsy

Best for: female-form wall art

Line drawings of the female figure will always be an elegant choice for wall art and this subtle piece is a lovely place to start.

Key features:

• Archival paper
• Multiple sizes available

Shop Now

04

Mini black cat sleeping painting

$41.79, Etsy

Best for: gallery walls

Unique artworks in unexpected sizes can enhance a gallery wall that feels a bit flat. This cute, tiny black cat wall art has plenty of personality, making it a cool addition to any gallery wall or space needing a lift.

Key features:

• 5cm x 5cm
• Acrylic on cardboard
• Made to order

Shop Now

05

Inka Arthouse 2x Japanese Taguchi Tomoki art prints

$120 – $240, The Iconic

Best for: famous artwork prints

Henri Matisse’s ‘Blue Nude’ is one of the many famous artworks that have become popular choices for wall art. If you like the idea of hanging a print of a famous artwork on your wall but don’t want something that everyone else has, these Taguchi Tomoki art prints are a nice option. You can also find prints of famous artworks at gallery exhibitions.

Key features:

• 250gsm archival grade matte paper
• Shipped from Melbourne
• Historical piece

Shop Now

06

‘Abstract Earth Canvas I’

$229, Early Settler

Best for: abstract art

Unlike wall art that features a recognisable image, abstract art can be a more subtle way to complete a space. If you’re looking for something neutral yet warm, this abstract canvas from Early Settler is a great choice.

Key features:

• Organic aesthetic
• Brown and white palette
• Hand-painted texture

Shop Now

07

‘Vintage Still Life Orange Painting’

$12.68, Etsy

Best for: still life wall art

With their vintage aesthetic, still life artworks of fruit look particularly charming in the kitchen. If I was hanging art in the kitchen, I’d definitely be opting for something like this cute rustic orange still life.

Key features:

• Downloadable print
• Vintage aesthetic
• Multiple sizes available

Shop Now

The post 7 pieces of wall art we would adorn our walls with in 2025 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The best interior trends and homewares to shop in March 2025

Dessert coupes

Silver dessert coupes are one of the many wedding ideas that sounded genius when I first got engaged and utterly ridiculous as the reality of wedding planning hit. These chic little glasses have been all over the Instagram feeds of my favourite French influencers, elevating the simplest scoop of icecream or cup of berries at their uber cool dinner parties.

While collecting 100 antique coupe glasses might not be something i’ll be torturing myself with in the lead up to my own wedding, I will still be searching for the perfect coupe set for my home (and future soirees).

1. Ice cream cups, $218 from Michelle Concept Store Glam
2. Gohar World set of two silver-tone desser coupes, $299 from Net-A-Porter
3. The seashell coupe glass, $89.95 from The Outlier
4. Steel goblet set of 2, $40 from In The Roundhouse

Coffee table dining

Since Castlery released its clever ‘Hugg’ coffee table design, I’ve been thinking more about coffee table dining as a concept. While Europeans seem to be relatively adept at throwing a few floor cushions around the coffee table and calling it a dinner party, us Australians tend to be more attached to our dining tables.

Yet, as I’ve learnt since moving into a 28m² apartment with no room for a dining table, enjoying a meal closer to the floor tends to bring a more relaxed and open energy to a group.

Doing coffee table dining well however, doesn’t mean forgoing comfort or style. A few cute floor cushions, a couple of low chairs and your favourite table linens will all give your coffee table the dinner party glow up that it deserves.

1. Avery stripe ruffle floor cushion, $89.95 from Pillow Talk
2. La La Chair in flamingo, $1500 from Fenton & Fenton
3. Hugg nesting square coffee table, $1299 from Castlery
4. Pomodoro embroidered 4-Piece napkin set, $41.99 (usually $59.99) from Linen House

Bridget Jones’ yellow kitchen

It’s safe to say that the new Bridget Jones film, Mad About The Boy, left us all with a strong desire to paint our kitchens yellow. In our opinion, the increasingly popular and super soft butter yellow is the best place to start with the sunshiney shade. This shade also happens to be KitchenAid’s colour of the year, with their new butter yellow mixer even making a cute appearance in Bridget Jones’ kitchen.

1. Artisan tilt-head stand mixer KSM195, $949 from Kitchen Aid
2. Molto stripe main plate, bright yellow, $95 from Alex and Trahanas
3. Layla lemon european pillowcase, $41.99 (usually $51.99) from Linen House

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The post What’s hot in homewares: dessert coupes, coffee table dining and Bridget Jones’ yellow kitchen appeared first on Home Beautiful.

It was a speedy turnaround for the listing and the home was sold by February 21, 2025 – before the planned February 22 auction. It had a price guide of $3.4 million but was scooped up for $3.85 million.

Charlie has given some clues about the design duo’s next property, revealing they’ve “started a brand new renovation project which we’re so excited about and will be sharing more of soon!”

It sounds like we’re getting another renovation to follow along with on Instagram—and if it’s anything like the couple’s previous projects, we’ve got plenty to look forward to.

The couple previously lived at a seaside home in eastern Sydney and a gorgeous country home in on the New South Wales central coast.

For now, let’s take a look through their Maroubra home…

See inside Charlie Albone and Juliet Love’s Maroubra home

Charlie and Juliet expertly transformed a tired red-brick beach cottage into this classic coastal weatherboard home. The romantic second floor balcony and home’s cool coastal blue shade is a charming sight from the street, which is located just walking distance from the iconic Maroubra Beach and Mahon ocean pool.

The interior is just as dreamy, with Juliet’s eye for luxury materials and bespoke joinery evident in the coastal style kitchen.

The kitchen, which connects to a sunny living area and alfresco space, is fitted with an integrated fridge and dishwasher, as well as a gas stovetop. The Nicolazzi brass tapware and marble tile splashback add coastal charm to the beautiful space.

The sunny living area enjoys floor to ceiling windows and a garden outlook, as well as built-in cabinetry and shelving.

An airy dining space with plantation shutters and double doors is sure to become the setting for family meals and dinner parties with friends.

Along with more plantation shutters and wood floors, a serene shade of blue has been selected for the walls of a number of the bedrooms.

The back garden is where Charlie’ talents shine, with the space being awarded Sydney’s Best Residential Project Under 200m2 in 2024.

Fitted with a resort-style pool with a heat pump and low-tox magnesium filter, there’s also a relaxing poolside cabana with an imported scalloped marble wall to make the most of summer afternoons.

The post Charlie Albone and Juliet Love sell their idyllic $3.8m Maroubra home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Every Home Beautiful collector’s edition to add to your collection

01

Home Beautiful Living Alfresco

$14.99, Magshop

From front facades to gorgeous gardens, the first volume of Home Beautiful’s Living Alfresco is an essential source of inspiration for outdoor living. Whether you’re looking to increase street appeal or create the ultimate entertaining spaces, there are over 130 pages of exterior design and decorating ideas in this special summer issue.

Shop Now

02

Home Beautiful Costal Homes Volume Three

$14.99, Magshop

Dip into Home Beautiful’s collection of covetable coastal homes. Whether you’re craving a Hamptons-style escape, a harbourside hideaway or a idyllic beachside shack, you’ll find all the style and design inspiration you need across 132 pages of spectacular seaside homes.

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03

Home Beautiful Dream Rooms Volume Two

$14.99, Magshop

Kick back with Home Beautiful’s ultimate collection of Dream Homes. Each a masterclass in design and superb style, these unforgettable abodes will fire up your imagination. 

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04

Home Beautiful Hamptons Style Volume 3

$14.99, Magshop

Delve into the inspirational world of Hamptons-style interiors. Home Beautiful Hamptons Style Volume Three collector’s edition showcases the most beautiful homes in Australia and overseas that feature cool, classic East Coast American style for every room of your home.

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05

Home Beautiful Hamptons Style

$14.99, Magshop

Take an interior design tour through the inspirational world of Hamptons-style interiors.

Shop Now

06

Home Beautiful Entertaining

from $14.99, Magshop

A collection of recipes and decorating ideas to inspire every meal and occasion.

Shop now

07

Home Beautiful 100 Beautiful Rooms

from $14.99, Magshop

Brimming with brilliant decorating ideas, this Collector’s Edition from the team at Home Beautiful presents 100 Beautiful Rooms to inspire your own home makeover. Plus, experts share 25 ways to magically transform your spaces into sanctuaries you’ll love.

Shop now

08

Home Beautiful All Australian Kitchens Bathrooms & Laundries Volume One

from $14.99, Magshop

The first edition of Home Beautiful’s All Australian Kitchens, Bathrooms & Laundries is filled with gorgeous kitchens, beautiful bathrooms and clever laundries, from Hamptons and coastal style to classic and contemporary. With 26 inspiring projects over 130+ pages, showcasing design and decorating ideas from the country’s top designers and talented home creators. 

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09

Home Beautiful Before & After

from $12.95, Magshop

Spotlighting 50 Amazing Makeovers, Home Beautiful’s Before & After bumper issue is packed with all the inspiration and information you need to transform every space in your home – from floor plans and budgets, to all-important style tips, your room rescue starts here.

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10

Home Beautiful Coast to Country

$14.99, Magshop

Take a break with Home Beautiful’s most inspiring collection of Coastal  and Country Homes. From beachside getaways to rural retreats, these 180 pages of divine dwellings will inspire the holiday touch in your home.

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11

Home Beautiful Coast & Country Home Vol 2

$14.99, Magshop

Dip into Volume 2 of Home Beautiful’s collection of covetable coastal and country homes. Whether you’re craving a rural escape, or a luxe beachside shack, you’ll find all the insights and inspiration you need across 132 pages of spectacular seaside homes.

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12

Home Beautiful Dream Homes

$14.99, Magshop

Kick back with Home Beautiful’s ultimate collection of Dream Homes. Each a masterclass in design and superb style, these unforgettable abodes will fire up your imagination. Next stop? Your own dream interiors.

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13

Home Beautiful Dream Rooms

$14.99, Magshop

Get set to sigh over Home Beautiful’s ultimate collection of Dream Rooms – from luxurious living areas and blissful bedrooms, to sun-dappled alfresco nooks, there’s an idea to revive every area of your home.

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14

Home Beautiful Outdoor Living

$12.99, Magshop

Home Beautiful’s bumper guide to Outdoor Living unearths more than 150 tips for creating a glamorous garden. Plus, style to steal and expert advice on perfect pools, classic decks and entertaining areas that beautifully bridge indoor and outdoor living.

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The post 14 Home Beautiful collector’s editions every reader should own appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Freestanding bath designs to inspire your bathroom renovation

A pretty pink freestanding bath

Earthy shades of clay are weaved throughout this beachy Gold Coast home—including in the bathroom, where the hero of the space is a luxurious free-standing ‘Valencia’ bath from Concrete Nation in Nude.

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A circular stone bath tub

This unique circular stone tub in Jacinta and Buddy Franklin’s Mediterranean-inspired home doesn’t only make an interesting design feature but also provides ample space for couples or the kids.

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A Hamptons-inspired freestanding tub

Exuding the charm of a luxury hotel, this ensuite showcases a Decina ‘Regent’ freestanding bath from The Blue Space, sitting atop marble-finish ceramic tiles from Tiles by Kate.

“We added more architraves and details at the top of the window to create a feeling of grandeur,” says home owner, Laura.

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An outdoor tub

Whether its a quick bath for the kids in the summer or a more romantic soak under the stars, one of the benefits of freestanding tubs is that they’re well suited to outdoor spaces.

While these home owners found the bath was taking up too much space in the bathroom, it was perfectly suited to the deck

“Izzy still loves to have a bath we thought it would be fun to try something outside,” says homeowner Andy.

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A classic claw foot bath tub

A classic claw floor bathtub brings French provincial style into this Vancouver home.

“I coveted the gauzy drapes encircling the tub,” says homeowner Kimberly. “They provide privacy and soften the natural light.”

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A grand Hamptons style bathroom with a deep soaking tub

A deep soaking bathtub gives this Hamptons style bathroom a luxurious feel.

“I wanted the ensuite to feel luxurious and romantic with beautiful marble floors, elegant cabinetry and a big tub to soak in,” says the owner of this home on the Sunshine Coast.

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A modern freestanding bath with a view

This freestanding bath’s modern oval design brings a sleek finish to this contemporary bathroom in rural Victoria. Strategically placed under the window, also gives the bather views of the surrounding landscape.

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A spa-like freestanding bath

This relaxed Queensland cottage bathroom enjoys a serene, spa-like feel thanks to the stone bathtub from Pietra Bianca and its pared back, natural decor.

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A light-filled bathroom with an elegant freestanding tub

Flooded with natural light from the row of casement windows, the star of this bright bathroom is the Marietta’ freestanding bath from Schots Home Emporium.

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A period bathroom elevated by a claw foot bath

In this main bedroom ensuite, an elegant claw foot tub is carefully slotted in behind the black tiled shower wall and Florence Broadhurst ‘Egrets’ wallpaper.

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An impressive freestanding bath with tapware to match

This bathroom’s long nero tapware in a brass finish matches the grand proportions of the luxurious freestanding bath.

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The post 12 luxurious freestanding bath designs to elevate your nightly soak appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Add a splash of colour

From the sunny yellow kitchen to the pretty coral bathroom, there’s plenty of colour in Bridget’s new pad. The yellow kitchen, with its mismatched chairs, plate rack and rows of herbs, is a particularly life-filled space, with yellow bringing a sense of sunshine and happiness into the heart of the home.

If Bridget’s kitchen has inspired you to bring with yellow into your home then we suggest starting with the gentle and highly palatable butter yellow shade, as seen in this cosy two-bedroom apartment in Mt Buller. Then, with its coral walls, striped furnishings, green tiled floor and red tub, Bridget’s bathroom is another room that pops with colour. The coral shade of pink is a particularly sweet colour for the room, bringing Bridget’s youthful playfulness into her new, more grown up space.

This pink powder room in Bangalow has a similar energy, with its soft pink walls, antique patterned lamp and chequered floor tiles bringing a sense of feminine fun into the small room.

Use wallpaper

Bridget Jones’ new Hampstead home really embraces traditional English interiors with its green patterned wallpaper in the master bedroom. Luckily, wallpaper has been making a comeback over the last few years, as people lean away from minimalism and towards more maximalist, colourful English interiors.

(Photographer: Tim Salisbury, Stylist: Penny Sheehan)

The bold and bright bedroom of this tiny Sydney cottage is a good example of how to embrace English interiors. Alongside colourful, mismatched linens, the floral printed ‘Adlington’ wallpaper by Lee Jofa brings a joyful sense of colour and character to the room.

Preserve character features

Patterned bathroom tiles and leadlight pocket doors are just a couple of the heritage features that give Bridget’s Hampstead home its unique character. In fact, the home’s gorgeous character features really demonstrate the importance of preserving a property’s unique features when renovating.

If your home is a new build, then you might consider adding features, such as stained glass windows and unique tiling, to give the property some more personality. Start by hunting through your local op shops and Facebook Marketplace for antique pieces people are selling secondhand. In this off-grid cottage in the Southern Tablelands, a stained glass window elevates this cosy dining space.

Add open shelving

You might have noticed that Bridget’s home doesn’t hide her items away in cupboards and closed storage—they are very much on display and celebrated. The easiest room to play with open shelving is the kitchen, where you can display your favourite mugs and potted herbs. Adding bookshelves and other open display units in the living room can also be a good way of bringing some Bridget Jones-approved ‘cosy clutter’ into your space as well.

Embrace the visual elements of family life

Just like Bridget’s old London apartment was an ode to her singlehood, her new Hampstead home seems to be an ode to family and motherhood. There are children’s artworks on display and colourful children’s toys scattered around the home. A cute way to display your child’s artworks is to frame them and hang them around the house like art.

With its wallpaper, colour, explosion of toys and sweet bunk beds, the children’s bedroom is a particularly magical place, where each of the children’s unique interests are loudly celebrated. The reminds us to let children be children, their rooms to be a space to dream, play and make a mess.

A claw foot tub

A red clawfoot bathtub takes centre stage in Bridget’s new bathroom and while the shower might be more efficient, there is something particularly romantic and luxurious about lounging in a free-standing bathtub. Here, Chloe Brookman’s dollhouse-inspired bathroom nails the brief.

The post How to decorate your home like Bridget Jones appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

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

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.

The post The 8 features that will help your home sell in 2025 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

A Rapunzel tower in Queensland

The magical La Tour Tzani is truly fit for a princess. Nestled in a valley in Ocean View, the home is inspired by French Chateaus and the current owner’s childhood living near Normandy’s Martello towers . Complete with a Rapunzel-like tower and sweet Juliet balcony, the home also contains tapestries sourced directly from the historical Mont Saint-Michel in France. Plus with 10 acres of land and and paddocks for horses, this place is made for living out your fairytale fantasy.

see the full listing

A historic Georgian country house in Tasmania

Built in 1834, this English-style manor house is like something out of a Jane Austen novel. With a history of being a traveller’s rest between Launceston and Hobart, the property comes with an original stone stable complex, 8438m² of sprawling English gardens and beautifully preserved character features, including French doors, built-in fireplaces and a dream country style kitchen.

see the full listing

A private island in Tasmania

Those dreaming of running away from society will find their perfect escape on this private island in Tasmania. Located in the Freycinet Peninsula, the island is located 800 metres away from the main shore, boasting spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range. Currently used as a five-star guest accommodation, the property is complete with a solar hot water system, off-grid solar power and accommodation for up to ten people. However, those wanting to experience island life alone can do so—alongside the island’s resident penguin colony.

see the full listing

A converted church in Victoria

Even if you’re not usually a fan of converted churches, this light and airy property bears almost no resemblance to its former place of worship. Set on the edge of the Warburton Rail Trail, this country home comes with a wood-burning fireplace, free-standing bathtub and plenty of character.

see the full listing

A Tuscan-style vineyard in New South Wales

With 20 acres of grazing pastures and a small vineyard, this Tuscan-style rendered brick homestead, known as ‘Yarrangower,’ would be a dream for anyone wanting a lifestyle change. The property’s hardware has all been imported from France while the the property’s tiles were handmade in Portugal. Climbing roses, French shutters and wooden beams all add to the Italian charm.

see the full listing

The post 5 unique properties for sale around Australia appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The best scented candles for Valentine’s Day 2025

01

Maison Balzac La Rose candle

$79.00, Maison Balzac

An ode to the rose in all of its form, this heady blend of tea rose, violet lead, rose geranium, rosewood and musk scents will kindle the sparks this Valentine’s Day.

Key features:

• Rose blend
• Soy and coconut wax
• 9.7cm X 7.3cm X 8.3cm

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02

Lumira candle Persian rose

$85, David Jones

This candle’s sultry blend of rose, bergamot and amber is sure to set the mood for a romantic Valentine’s Day.

Key features:

• Sand-free
• Quick drying
• 400gsm

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03

Trudon Madeleine Taper pink

$49.95 , David Jones

Visual aesthetics can be just as important as scent when setting the tone for a romantic evening. Whether you’re styling the table or lighting up the bedroom, these six pink taper candles will add a dramatic flair to your Valentine’s Day décor.

Key features:

• Set of six
• Taper candles
• Made in Normandy

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04

Mango and Papaya soy candle 350g

$39.95, Circa

Fill even the largest rooms in your home with the tropical scent of summer when you light this elegant candle. With a ribbed glass vessel, it’s equally at home in the bathroom, hallway console or bedside table next to breezy curtains for a richly scented boudoir, making it the perfect Valentine’s Day candle.

Key features:

• Reusable and recyclable glass ribbed glass vessel
• Tropical fruity fragrance with top notes of Organe, Cassis, Passionfrit and Mango
• Handmade in Australia

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05

L’Affair Bordeaux scented soy candle

$49.99, David Jones

Inspired by the romance of Southern France and its fragrant vineyards, this elegant candle contains a refreshing blend of saffron, geranium, jasmine and rose.

Key features:

• 400g
• Soy wax
• Glass jar

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06

Jonathan Adler muse bouche 3-wick candle

$299, Jonathan Adler

Those preferring a spicier, woody scent will find it hard not to be seduced by the Jonathan Adler’s Muse Bouche candle’s blend of bergamot, mandarin, pepper, rose, sandalwood and suede.

Key features:

• Three wick candle
• Warm and woody
• Porcelain pot

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07

TWG Bain de Roses scented candle

$139.95, David Jones

The luxurious TWG Bain de Roses candle will envelope your home in a bouquet of roses, black tea, white sandalwood, warm vanilla and fresh grapefruit.

Key features:

• Inspired by Provence
• Pink jar
• 600g

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08

ECOYA Rosewater & Raspberry Madison candle

$49.95, Adore Beauty

With notes of bergamot, orange, lemon and tart green apple, this sorbet-inspired scent is sure to bring a little sweetness to your Valentine’s Day.

Key features:

• 400g
• 80 hour burn time
• Natural soy wax

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09

King of Woods Indian sandalwood candle

$95, Heartwood

While it looks just about perfect styled atop your latest coffee table book crush, when lit, this subtle candle leans into the refined, woody aroma of spicy Indian sandalwood to feed your mind, soul and well-being. With essential oils harvested by the maker and blended with 100% soy wax, the fragrance profile promotes sleep, relaxation and mental clarity.

Key features:

• Burn time up to 65 hours
• 325ml
• Slow burn, long-lasting fragrance

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The post 9 romantic scented candles to set the mood for Valentine’s Day appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Now that the Beaujolins are looking to downsize, the home can be bought for $19 million Swiss francs (around $33 million AUD). You can see the full listing on Knight Frank.

See inside Audrey Hepburn’s former home in Switzerland

Audrey Hepburn’s former Swiss villa is set within 40-acres of land with views to the surrounding mountains.

The home still retains plenty of character features, including checkerboard flooring and pretty French doors.

The oversized living room features sage wainscoting and built-in bookcases.

Another living space features even more built-in bookcases and tiled floors.

The remodelled kitchen sits behind an interior window panel, opening up into a large family space.

The blue cabinetry, large kitchen island and views to the garden give the room plenty of charm.

The bedrooms are just as majestic with built-in fireplaces, wood floors and French windows.

Original wooden beams feature throughout the property and add character to the rooms.

An attic area offers opportunity for a home office, guest bedroom or artist studio

The views to the garden are particularly breathtaking.

The property also comes with a heated 50-metre swimming pool.

The post The Swiss villa once belonging to Audrey Hepburn is for sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“In the beginning, we were conveniently swept up in the fairy-tale of a Château in a faraway land, rather than comprehending what it would really mean living in a foreign country, with a language we didn’t speak, and the responsibility required of owning and restoring a historic monument,” explains Karina. “Adapting to the French lifestyle, culture and language has certainly not come easily, and it has taken several years for us to find our place here and for it to feel like home.”

Whether its a $1 house in an abandoned Italian village or a historic Chateau in the French countryside, these are the five things you need to know before buying your European fixer-upper.

1. Be realistic about your financial situation

European fixer-uppers often go viral for their seemingly low prices but it’s important to factor in the other hidden costs.

“Taxes on your home in France will be a significant cost to consider (they are large and numerous and the reason why larger properties are always on the market) let alone additional taxes from your resident country,” explains Karina.

“If you need to renovate, the costs are high (at least when compared to Australia), and you should also consider the difficulty of actually finding specialised workers in rural areas as you may need to pay additional costs for a larger company to travel and do larger scale work.”

The possible costs also don’t stop when you have finished renovating the property.

“Maintenance costs of a home in Europe (possibly as well as a home in your resident country) will be important to think about. Then you have to factor in things like travel costs per year and if you are planning on spending extended periods of time in Europe how you will work in a country where you may not speak the language. Even just obtaining a French visa, it took Karina two years of travelling back and forth to Sydney and France and there were significant costs involved,” explains Craig.

2. Start learning the language

The reality of living—let alone buying and renovating a property—in a country where you don’t speak the language can be extremely difficult. If you’re speaking to real estate agents, negotiating contracts and working with tradesmen, it will help to have a basic grip on the language.

In France, Craig and Karina found out that very few French people spoke English in the area that they bought. For this reason, they suggest “start learning right away!”

3. Rent in the area first

If you feel yourself getting swept up in the fantasy of moving to a foreign land, it’s probably a good idea to spend some time getting to know the area on a more long-term basis.

“Once you have narrowed your search to a specific region we would suggest renting a place for three months or so to really get a feel for the area,” suggests Karina. “Not just the scenery but consider – are there are activities on offer that you will enjoy year round? Are there all of the amenities that you will need (schools, doctors, supermarkets, public transport, a space that holds language classes etc)? Is there a group of local people who speak your language (as you will need a support system as you nurture your new life and people who know the area to give you guidance and also if you need help in a difficult situation)?”

It’s important to remember your move is not a holiday and therefore you need to be prepared for what living in these (often more remote) areas do entail.

4. Research the property’s past

If you’re thinking about buying an old or listed property then you’re going to need to read up on the approvals required to get started on renovations.

For Karina and Craig, their restoration process was delayed for a significant period of time while the right approvals were granted.

“It takes many many months sometimes years to gather together the relevant research and documentation before sending in the final documents for permissions. And then, you may have to wait a significant amount of time to find out whether your plans were approved or not,” Karina explains.

At the same time, it’s important to learn about your property’s past to honour any important historical details in your renovations.

” Take the time to research and understand the past so that you can best preserve this for the future. And if possible to live in the property before doing any work to embrace this past in a physical sense and understand better how you wish to live there in the future,” recommends Karina.

5. Get legal advice

One of the biggest tips Karina and Craig have for anyone considering a foreign fixer-upper is to get the proper legal advice.

“Before the stage of putting in an offer on a property, it is worth sitting down for some legal advice preferably from a bilingual lawyer and a specialist accountant so that you can discuss how it would be best to structure the purchase of a property,” says Karina.

“You will need to take into account issues such as being a resident vs. a non-resident, wealth tax, inheritance tax, capital gains, personal tax implications etc. In our situation, after reviewing all of this we came to the conclusion that it is nearly impossible to have a perfect scenario.”

The post Five things to do before buying that European fixer-upper you saw online, according to those who have done it appeared first on Home Beautiful.

How much does it cost to renovate a bathroom?

Cost is one of the biggest factors to consider when embarking on any renovation—and it’s something that can vary greatly depending on a number of different factors.

“The cost of an average Australian bathroom renovation varies widely due to factors such as your suburb location, size of the room, materials you want installed and their quality level, ” Barber explains to Home Beautiful, adding that you also have to consider “whether you’re going to be project managing it yourself (DIY) or hiring licensed professionals to do all the work for you (outsourcing).”

The cost of a bathroom renovation in Australia

Budget: $10,000 to $15,000 (DIY), $15,000 to $25,000 (outsourced)

A basic renovation with minimal plumbing changes, budget fixtures and cosmetic updates.

Mid-range: $20,000 to $35,000 (DIY), $35,000 to $60,000 (outsourced)

Layout changes, quality fixtures, professional waterproofing and tiling.

Luxury: $35,000 to $50,000 (DIY), $60,000 to $100,000 (outsourced)

Room is completely reconfigured with high-end finishes, custom cabinetry and underfloor heating.

How to save costs on a bathroom renovation

When it comes to saving costs on a bathroom renovation, one of the most impactful things you can do it is leave your plumbing where it is and instead, just refit your fixtures.

“Leaving plumbing in place is significantly cheaper than relocating it,” advises Barber. “Moving a toilet, shower, bath or vanity often requires re-routing of your existing water lines which can add thousands of dollars to your renovation cost for a home with timber bearers and joists with reasonable access.”

“If you have a concrete slab home, jackhammering new water lines into the existing slab, can significantly increase this cost again.”

There is however, an exception to this rule— if your current bathroom layout isn’t functional.

In this case, Barber recommends you “invest the money and do your bathroom right.

“What might cost you extra now, will pay dividends later in your increased property value and your own personal sanity.”

Read: How to renovate a bathroom for under $10,000

DIY or building company?

Depending on our renovation knowledge and enjoyment level, there are pros and cons to both DIY and outsourcing the job to the professionals.

“If you go the DIY route, you’ll need to juggle multiple tradies, get the construction timeline right and make sure everything meets Aussie building codes,” says Barber.

“If that all sounds a bit overwhelming, it might be worth paying extra for licensed professionals—at least you’ll have peace of mind knowing the job’s done properly. Bathroom mistakes can be expensive and tricky to fix so be honest about your skills before diving in.”

What is the best bathroom layout?

Your bathroom renovation may involve rethinking your existing bathroom layout and designing a new one. While Barber doesn’t believe there’s one “perfect floorplan,” she does believe there are some “smart design principles” to consider.

“A good floor plan will always maximise functionality, ensure proper spacing between fixtures, create a comfortable flow in which to circulate within the bathroom, offer good privacy, be practical for everyday use, all whilst having great visual appeal,” Barber says.

It’s also important to remember that certain layouts will benefit different sized bathrooms.

“If your bathroom is on the smaller side, the “all on a wall” layout where your shower/bath, toilet and vanity is all on one wall is space efficient and cost effective,” explains Barber, who suggests the ‘wet and dry zone’ approach for bigger bathrooms.

“A popular and modern design these days is the “wet & dry zone” approach, where the shower and bath are placed in one area, separated by a glass screen or partial wall, while the vanity and toilet remain in a drier section.”

When designing your bathroom layout, Barber suggests considering the following elements:

• Bathroom plumbing locations – Moving plumbing is costly so try to work with your existing locations if possible but don’t do so, if it’s still going to compromise the overall functionality of your bathroom.
• Bathroom space efficiency – Avoid overcrowding by ensuring you have adequate clearance between fixtures.
• Bathroom storage – Consider vanities with built-in storage, mirrored cabinets that can utilise your internal wall cavity space and shower nooks to neatly conceal day to day items such as shampoo, soap and the like.
• Bathroom lighting – Natural light is ideal but don’t forget to supplement it with well-placed task lighting.
• Bathroom accessibility – Ensure users have easy access to all fixtures, especially for people with mobility issues.
• Bathroom ventilation – Ensure adequate airflow to prevent mould, especially in the more humid states of Australia.
• Aesthetics vs. practicality – While trends are tempting, focus on durable, easy-to-clean materials that will stand the test of time. Trends come and go quickly but your bathroom needs to last the distance, ideally at least two decades.

The biggest bathroom design mistakes

When it comes to bathroom renovating mistakes, Barber has seen them all.

1. Poor space planning
   “One of the biggest mistakes I see is poor space planning – trying to squeeze too many things in or larger fixtures than what they necessarily need to be. This often results in a bathroom where there isn’t enough room for movement or failing to consider door swings and clearance for fixtures,” explains Barber.
2. Improper toilet placement
   “Another big mistake is the improper placement of the toilet, where it becomes the first visible item when entering the room. Toilets generally aren’t attractive so don’t make them the focal point. If anything, try to hide them as much as possible.”
3. Poor ventilation
   Poor ventilation is also a frequent oversight, leading to moisture issues and mould growth, a big problem with our humid Australian climate.

Waterproofing is crucial – Australian building codes require strict waterproofing standards so always hire a licensed water proofer. This is not a DIY area

Consider future-proofing – If this is your long-term home, consider accessibility features such as a walk-in shower and grab rails which will be easier to manoeuvre around as you get older in age

Use light colours in small bathrooms – White and neutral tones can make a small bathroom appear larger

Invest in quality tapware – Cheap fittings may corrode quickly, especially in coastal areas

Plan lighting carefully – Use layered lighting: task lighting near mirrors and ambient lighting for general illumination

Think about resale value – If renovating for resale, stick to timeless designs rather than overly trendy styles

Cherie Barber’s best bathroom renovation tips

Bathroom layout dimensions

When designing your bathroom, Barber suggests adhering to these standard measurements.

Bath

· Standard length: 1500mm – 1700mm

· Width: 700mm – 900mm

· Depth: 400mm – 600mm

*Freestanding baths require at least 100mm clearance from walls for cleaning access.

Toilet

· Distance from wall to front: 600mm – 800mm

· Side clearance: At least 200mm from walls/vanities

· Height: 400mm – 450mm (seat height)

Shower

· Minimum size: 900mm x 900mm (recommended for comfort)

· Walk-in showers: At least 1200mm x 900mm

· Showerhead height: 2000mm – 2100mm from the floor

Basin / Vanity

· Height from floor: 850mm – 900mm

· Depth: 400mm – 500mm

· Width: 400mm – 1500mm

Other Fixtures

· Towel rails: 900mm – 1200mm from the floor

· Mirror height: Top edge around 1800mm from the floor

You can find Cherie Barber on Instagram and on her website.

The post All of your biggest bathroom renovation questions, answered appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“Michael did the bathroom, so yes it hasn’t changed that much,” PPD Real Estate’s Zach Carter told realestate.com.au.

Hutchence owned the property for a decade before selling it $285,500 in 1995—the year English television presenter Paula Yates gave birth to his daughter, Heavenly Hiraani Tiger Lily.

Since then, the property has exchanged hands a number of times, most recently belonging to investor Emily Joseph, who bought the cottage for $1.72 million in 2019. Joseph has been renting out of the property for $1100 per

See inside Michael Hutchence’s former Paddington cottage

This wide-fronted terrace is cleverly built around a central courtyard, encouraging natural light to flood the home. The bright living area retains a period fireplace and views out to the courtyard.

Separated from the main living area, the functional kitchen offers dine-in possibilities and a good amount of storage.

The large main bedroom is connected to the sunny front veranda by a set of French doors.

While a second bedroom also offers courtyard access.

The bathroom enjoys an outdoor aspect.

An idyllic internal courtyard makes indoor-outdoor living seamless.

See the full real estate listing on realestate.com.au.

The post Michael Hutchence’s former Paddington cottage is for sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Designed by Sydney-Based architecture firm, Walter Barda Design, the new build is certainly no beach cottage, with the plans revealing what looks like a sprawling five-storey beachside mansion. Further images revealed a nautical-style black and white exterior with plenty of tropical foliage to provide privacy.

One of the more unique aspects of the new build is that it seems to be split across two distinct interconnecting properties. The first section of the home is positioned on the road level, towering over the neighbouring properties before descending into the second part of the home further down the hillside.

Before making the move to the South Coast, Hutton lived in a stylish Hamptons inspired beach house in Bronte. She sold the home in 2021 for $9.85 million, after deciding that she wanted a lifestyle change.

“Covid, in many respects, has done a lot of things to a lot of people in terms of the way they think they want to live,” she said. “I don’t have to live in Sydney to work so I’m just wanting to get out of the madness…I’m just ready for a different energy,” Deborah told to Wentworth Courier in 2021.

You can see the home’s full listing on realestate.com.au.

Inside Deborah Hutton’s former Bronte home

We might not know what the inside of Hutton’s new South Coast home will look like but if her former property in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs is anything to go by, we’re in for a treat. Before Hutton decided to sell lovely Bronte beach pad, Home Beautiful caught up with the media personality to talk about her interior design style and renovation tips and tricks. You can read the full interview below.

What was your brief for this home renovation?

“My brief was a timeless, classic house that looked like it been here for some time, so in 30 years it still feels beautiful.”

And what was your style starting point?

“The Hamptons was the original inspiration. And then it was sort of coastal – it was a bit Palm Beach. But I look at the home now and I think it has a Colonial influence, a little of St Barts.”

Have you renovated a home before?

“No, I renovated a bathroom – that’s it! As in, I just retiled something. I’ve never done anything like this before.”

What was the best thing about the building process?

“It was fast, efficient and fabulous! The builders worked six days [a week] and I moved to a rental home next door, so I project managed from right next door.”

How did you find the process of choosing fixtures and finishes?

“Ah look, I enjoyed some if it. I loved [some of] it, I should say! But I found some of it really tedious. There were so many details to consider and it was a bit challenging at times.”

Did you have any must-haves before you started renovating?

“Oh, absolutely! The first must-have was the ceiling detail [in the upper level living room, dining room and kitchen]. I also wanted weatherboard – to me, that is Hamptons, that says beach style.”

You have such beautiful artworks throughout your home – can you tell us a bit about your collection?

“I’ve been collecting for years. I was a bit paranoid when I was moving into this house that I wouldn’t be able to hang all that much – but, funnily enough, I managed to find plenty of wall space. There were only two pieces that didn’t really work and I’ve gifted them away.”

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The online attention brought more than 500 people to the auction with the successful buyer purchasing the property for $3.75 million. However, after just one month of living there, the buyer sold the property to the Hewitts, who snapped it up for $4.305 million in 2021.

The couple decided to move on from their Palm Springs-style oasis in October 2024, when it was listed for $5.1 million. According to Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty agent Carol Carter, who led the property’s sale, there was plenty of interest in the luxury home.

“We have had a massive number of inquiries from interstate, a lot out of Sydney and Melbourne, and there has been quite a lot of local interest,” she told realestate.com.au.

By January 2025, the property has officially secured a buyer, selling for $200,000 under the listing price at $4.9 million, according to realestate.com.au.

See inside Bec and Lleyton Hewitt’s breezy Burleigh Heads home

Located on Deodar Drive, just 400 metres from the beach on the Gold Coast, the property’s beachside location is one of the home’s biggest drawcards, but according to the property’s real estate agent, Carol Carter, the Hewitts simply didn’t have the time to make the most of it.

With dramatic cavity glass stacker doors and bi-folds, the home’s effortless indoor-outdoor living design makes the most of the location’s sunny weather and is ideal for both everyday family living and entertaining.

At the heart of the home, a modern kitchen seamlessly connects to the outdoors. With three ovens, stone benchtops, an integrated fridge and freezer, butler’s pantry, two wine fridges and a wine cellar, it’s the perfect entertaining space.

The open-plan living and dining also open onto the garden and cosy flued fireplace for the few colder months of the year.

There are also three bedrooms with ensuites, including the main bedroom with built-in seating and a dressing room, as well as a ground floor bedroom, office and powder room.

While the interior’s Santorini Clay stone feature walls and American Oak timber floors are certainly part of the home’s architectural attraction, there’s no competing with the property’s outdoor space with it’s glass-framed pool and glamorous sunken fireplace.

You can see the full listing on realestate.com.au

The post The sale price of Lleyton and Bec Hewitt’s viral Burleigh Heads beach pad, revealed appeared first on Home Beautiful.

1. Formal dining rooms

According to Neale Whitaker, the formal dining room is back. The interior designer and Love it or List It host recently took to Instagram to share his 2025 interior design trend predictions, where he highlighted the return of the dining space as a separate room. “Separate dining rooms—not dining zones, not little areas leading off the kitchen—but good, old-fashioned dining rooms are back,” Whitaker explained.

The return of the formal dining space seems to be part of a greater shift away from open-plan living, which is seeing more of us gravitate towards more individualised spaces. The shift might be a reaction to our post-Covid-19 era of working and relaxing in the exact same space—which may also be occupied by other members of the household. It may also indicate a desire for a more intentional dining space that isn’t conducive to our phones and other screens that rule our lives. Plus, a separate dining room also keeps the kitchen mess out of view.

2. Round dining tables

Curves are making their way into every aspect of interior design—including the dining room, with the classic long rectangular dining table officially being replaced by more modest round styles. The compact design of round dining tables doesn’t only benefit small spaces (which more of us are living in thanks to the rise in housing prices) but also offer a more intimate setting for group conversations.

3. Textured seating

Weaved textures such as rattan and wicker were identified as one of the year’s biggest interior trends in Home Beautiful’s 2025 design forecast and the dining area is one of the areas we’re seeing this trend really take hold. As a traditionally coastal texture, rattan is well suited to relaxed Australian dining settings, with everything from mid-century inspired teak dining chairs to cosy cane armchairs bringing the material into the dining room.

4. Banquette seating

The popularity of banquette seating has been rising for a little while now and it’s not going anywhere in 2025. With it’s space-saving abilities, banquette seating suits all styles and sizes of kitchen and is known to be a family-friendly seating option as well—convincing your kids to sit at the table isn’t hard when it feels like a couch.

5. A pop of colour

As we move away from the ‘sad-beige’ aesthetic that has dominated our homes over the last 15 years, we’re seeing more colour enter our dining rooms. In this space, it tends to be painted wood that reigns, with often a brightly painted wooden dining chair bringing some brightness to our daily meals. A pop of unexpected red or yellow work particularly well but there’s nothing stopping you from branching out to the rest of the colour wheel.

The post 5 dining room trends you’re about to see everywhere in 2025 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The best cordless lamps to buy in 2025

01

38cm Elea rechargeable LED table lamp with USB

from $89.99, Temple & Webster

This cute minty green lamp will make a sweet statement piece in any corner of your home that could benefit from some extra lighting.

What we love about it:

• Cute mint shade
• Dimmable function
• Sleek design

Shop now

02

Maison Balzac pomponette table lamp summer multi

from $229, David Jones

This cool Maison Balzac lamp is actually illuminated by a pillar candle, making both a portable lamp and clever candle holder.

Key features:

• Statement design
• Doesn’t use electricity
• Vase option when top is removed

Shop now

03

Printworks portable lamp riviera

from $299, David Jones

Inspired by beach parasols along the Riviera, this cool cordless lamp boasts a uniquely whimsical design that’s perfect for giving your home a bit a personality.

Key features:

• Uniquely whimsical design
• Three brightness levels
• 8-70 hours of light on a full charge

Shop Now

04

29.5cm wave rechargeable LED table lamp

from $99, Temple & Webster

This cool rechargeable lamp beautifully balances its statement wavy design with a neutral white and timber colour scheme.

Key features:

• Contemporary wavy design
• Neutral white and timber shade
• Three colour settings

Shop Now

05

Beige Norm Architects hashira portable table lamp

$285, Ssense

This is possibly the chicest rechargeable lamp on the market right now. With a beige linen shade, sandblasted stained oak base and of course, no tangled cord getting in the way, elevating your space has never been easier.

Key features:

• Chic Norm Architects design
• Beige linen shade
• Sandblasted stained oak base

Shop Now

06

Yellow bellhop portable table lamp

$415, Ssense

This little mushroom lamp comes in the coolest shade of mustard, making a stylish statement whether its light is on or off.

Key features:

• Designed by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby
• Cool mustard shade
• Four-stage dimmer switch

Shop Now

07

JOYOSWO Set of 1 Cordless Table lamp

$69.95 , Myer

If you’re looking for a more classic style of cordless lamp then we would recommend this cute one from Myer. With its fabric shade and black stem base, it’s an elegant choice.

Key features:

• Sweet fabric shade
• Classic black stem
• Dimmable setting

Shop Now

How long do rechargeable lamps last?

Rechargeable lamps require regular charging but the frequency of charging really depends on the individual lamp. Some rechargeable lamps may last a few days without needing any charging but others will need to be charged on a daily basis. As a rule, the lamps tend to dim their light as they run out of charge.

How to make any lamp cordless

If you have a lamp that you love and no power socket to plug it into then you can simply use a rechargeable globe, which you can find on Amazon. It’s worth knowing that these bulbs won’t last as long as ordinary bulbs but if you’re happy to regularly charge them then they can be a good solution.

The post 7 of the cutest cordless lamps for lighting up your home (and your life) appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Matty J and Laura Byrne’s dream South Coast holiday property renovation

The Bachelor alum, Matty J and Laura, are currently sharing the trials and tribulations of transforming an old seaside property on the NSW South Coast into their dream holiday home. From snakes living in their roof to significant mould, water and termite damage, the couple aren’t afraid of sharing the reality of renovating an old property.

Those who appreciate some personality in a property will also delight in watching the family preserve the character and magic in their “little glass house on the seaside filled with stories.” There’s plenty of colourful tiling, stained glass windows and dreamy views to be found in this renovation.

Follow on Instagram: @chante.mer.house

read more about the renovation

Inside Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding’s historic ‘Ravenswood’ mansion renovation

When Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding announced they had purchased a run-down 150-year-old mansion, their followers couldn’t wait to see what they would do with it. Fortunately, the couple have been sharing the renovation journey and all of their fascinating historic discoveries, such as the home’s porthole windows and Egyptian motif door handles, as they go.

Despite the challenges that arise as they peel back the onion that is an old home like this one, the couple are passionate about the property and their renovation journey. If you harbor any sort of fascination for old buildings then you’re going to enjoy following along with this reno.

Follow along on Instagram: @thebuild_ravenswood

read more about the renovation

Brooke Styles’ renovation of her 100-year-old Queenslander

With her classic country style and talent for restoring antique furniture, its not exactly a surprise that Brooke Styles has over 250,000 people following along with her renovation of a 100-year-old Queenslander. Leaning into the building’s age, Brooke’s kitchen renovation saw the installation of a blue antique-style range cooker, a custom pot rail and plenty of cottagecore-style open shelving.

Along the way, Brooke has also been sharing her second-hand furniture finds and country-inspired decorating choices.

Follow along on Instagram: @brookestyless

Chloe Brookman’s 1970s home renovation

Having completed her dreamy dolls house-style renovation, Chloe Brookman is onto her next renovation project and we couldn’t be more excited to follow along. This time around, Chloe is renovating an old 1970s home by the sea—complete with patterned yellow wall paper, hardwood floors and a tiled retro bar. We’re waiting in anticipation for this exciting renovation to kick off.

Follow along on Instagram: @70shousereno

Ronnie and Georgia’s 1925 weatherboard cottage renovation

The Block alum, Ronnie and Georgia might have been renovating their 1925 weatherboard cottage for the last five years but we’re still as onboard as ever. By taking their time with the renovation, the couple have been able to carefully preserve the building’s character features while adding some magical updates of their own. This is a renovation that shows there’s nothing wrong with going slow when it comes to your dream home.

Follow along on Instagram: @ronnieandgeorgia

Claire Kennedy’s renovation of her Victorian-era property in England

Fans of British interiors will appreciate Claire Kennedy’s current renovation of her Victorian era property in England. With good bones, Claire has made sure to preserve the home’s unique features while putting her own whimsical spin on the fairy-tale space. With a knack for pastel prints and playful décor, this renovation is full of colourful inspiration.

Follow along on Instagram: @claireakennedy

The post 6 real-time renovations we can’t stop watching on social media appeared first on Home Beautiful.

What is a French door?

French doors are characterised as two matching doors fitted with glass panels that open from the centre. When closed, the doors meet in the centre of the entryway with the symmetrical door handles sitting alongside each other.

While French doors are traditionally made from wood with glass panelling, modern French doors may use aluminium, fiberglass and vinyl. Like their materials, French doors can also vary in shape and size, with an arch top being a popular choice today.

Internal French doors that connect the kitchen to the butler’s pantry

This classic kitchen in the Mornington Peninsula makes use of French doors to separate the kitchen from the butler’s pantry, which also cleverly houses the laundry and mudroom. The choice to use fluted glass in the French door panelling is an elegant way to ensure these more functional areas remain out of sight.

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French doors that seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces

In this stylish Vancouver home, a line of tall custom French doors beautifully connect the living room to the back patio and bring the light in.

“As our home looks out onto the green belt, a wall of French doors allows the dappled sunlight to stream in,” explains the owner of the home.

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French doors create a statement front door

Paired with a set of storm shutters painted in Porter’s Paints Chintz Grey, these French doors bring an island aesthetic to this coastal resort style home. As the front door, the doors set the tone from the outset.

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French bedroom doors that open to the water

Thanks to two walls of white French doors, this main bedroom is not only drenched in sunlight but enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding water.

“It has such a beautiful outlook; you could sit in there all day and watch the world go by,” says the owner of this home.

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French doors add romance to this verandah

Looking over the storeybook-garden below, the wisteria-draped French doors bring an element of romance to this lovely verandah.

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French doors leading to the ensuite bathroom

In this classic bedroom, French doors create an elegant separation between the bedroom and ensuite bathroom. Those wanting more privacy might also benefit from hanging a sheer white curtain along the edge of the doorway.

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French doors create a separate entry for this garden guest house

The one-bed guest house is like a mini-me version of the main home, finished in the same materials and hues with one exception: pretty French-style shutters in a custom colour.

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Wall-to-wall French doors are an elegant choice for this conservatory

When restoring this 1920s home, the owner wanted a modern-style Edwardian conservatory— “a space that feels like an outdoor room but allows you to use it all year round.”

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The difference between French doors, double doors and patio doors

French doors can easily be mistaken for other popular styles of doors, including double doors and patio doors. To understand the difference, we have outlined the identifying features of each door style below.

French doors: two symmetrical doors fitted with glass panels

Double doors: two doors usually fitted with a solid material, such as wood, rather than glass

Patio doors: traditionally slide along one track and open out to an outdoor space, however people may use the term to describe their French doors or double doors, if they happen to lead out to a patio.

What do French doors cost to install?

French door prices can vary depending on the material and size that you select, with prices ranging anywhere from $500 to upwards of $10,ooo.

The post 8 homes that illustrate the enduring elegance of French doors appeared first on Home Beautiful.