From the editor

“The designs in our round-up this month are incredible, from the material and colour choices, to the tap and appliance selection.”

Elle Lovelock, editor-in-chief, Home Beautiful

Beautiful design: How to create cohesive design in every bathroom

Interior designer Sarah Nolen shares how she achieves cohesive design in every bathroom of the house, from main to ensuite and more.

Beautiful food: Flavours of Mexico with our mouthwatering recipes with a modern twist

Amp up the flavour at home – both midweek and when entertaining – with our reimagining of traditional Mexican dishes. Discover bold and exciting tastes in a host of irresistible recipes that bring a new spin to this classic cuisine.

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Entertaining

February 4, 2025

Frozen margarita recipe

By Jessica Brook

Entertaining

February 18, 2025

Grilled corn starters

By Jessica Brook

Entertaining

February 13, 2025

Ceviche recipe

By Jessica Brook

Beautiful gardens: How to create a layout plan and mood board

In the second instalment of our design series, gardening guru Ashley James explains how to draw up a layout plan and create a mood board.

Beautiful Homes:

1. A farmhouse-style home by Alisa and Lysandra celebrates warm textures

Take a tour through the pages of this grand American Farmhouse-style home that’s been extended and renovated with the help of Alisa & Lysandra Interiors in the beautiful beachside suburb of Brighton in Adelaide, South Australia.

2. This inner-city Victorian terrace is pretty in pink

Some small changes swiftly snowballed into a big renovation and a fresh new style for this Victorian abode.

“The ‘small’ renovation happened very quickly and grew to be slightly larger than expected.”

Melissa Balzan

read more

Beautiful places: Welcome to Wanaka

Home Beautiful adventurous author, Kayla Wratten shows us why, for your next trip across the pond, you should add the majestic resort town Wanaka to your South Island itinerary.

For more great ideas to relax with, pick up the September issue of Home Beautiful magazine, on sale now. Or subscribe here and never miss an issue.

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

Have it delivered to your door!

The post As seen in Home Beautiful magazine this month appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Whether you’re hoping to impress a first date or hosting your first Galentine’s, we have a cocktail recipe for every romantic occasion.

01

A champagne cocktail recipe

A classy champagne cocktail, complete with a little bit of bitters and a whole lot of bubbles

If you’re looking for something a little special then this classy champagne cocktail recipe will certainly elevate your Valentine’s Day evening.

get the recipe

02

Frozen margarita recipe

The perfect cocktail for warm summer nights

This frozen margarita recipe is a twist on the classic recipe for margarita and is a real party starter for those who want to spice up their Valentine’s Day.

get the recipe

03

Rosé sorbet mimosa

This ‘frosé’ is the perfect pick-me-up

This delicious sorbet recipe is perfect for any afternoon soiree or as the ideal adult-only treat. The best part is, you can prepare your sorbet in the lead-up to your party and serve a scoop as a bright and refreshing delight when ready.

get the recipe

04

Lychee ginger rose cocktail

Get creative with gin and spicy ginger beer

Packed with nutrients, the star of this refreshing drink is the exotic sweetness of lychees combined with the spicy kick of ginger beer, creating a delightful blend of flavours.

get the recipe

05

The Orchard’s kiss cocktail

A romantic cocktail with a touch of red roses

Inspired by an ancient symbol of love that relates back to the Greek God Dionysus who offered apples to win the Goddess Aphrodite’s love, this romantic cocktail is perfect for Valentine’s Day.

get the recipe

04

Two-Fold Tango Whisky cocktail

The perfect tipple for whiskey lovers

Using Two-Fold Whisky steeped in spicy flavours drawn from red wine barrel aging, and the sweet Oloroso sherry, this whisky cocktail will heat up your night.

get the recipe

05

Negroni sbagliato

Add a touch of flair with the lightly effervescent negroni sbagliato

The negroni sbagliato may have been social media’s cocktail of choice a few years ago, but the Prosecco-based drink is an Italian classic, swapping gin for sparkling wine, as with a negroni.

get the recipe

07

Mello’ Poppins cocktail

A delicious cocktail perfect for summer

A glass full of freshly squeezed watermelon juice combined with vodka and Aperol creates this delightfully refreshing cocktail by The Grounds.

get the recipe

08

Lillet, gin and guava autumn rosé

A lively gin cocktail with tones of autumn leaves

This lovely little number is simple to prepare and ideal a pre-dinner cocktail. While the warm colour evokes the russet tones of autumn and winter, it can be enjoyed all year round.

get the recipe

09

Strawberry Serenade cocktail

A perfect celebration cocktail for lunch by the sea

Chefs at Sydney’s Bathers’ Pavilion, Cameron Johnston & Shruti Punja, share their recipe for the Strawberry Serenade – a brilliant, simple, gin-based cocktail.

get the recipe

10

Frozen cherry cocktail

A festive treat enjoyed year-round

This delicious slushy cocktail can be served as an after-dinner dessert cocktail with cherries and blueberries bursting with flavour.

get the recipe

11

Sgroppino sorbet cocktail

Spoiler: contains Prosecco!

We love finding new ways to drink sparkling wine, and this beauty puts a fabulous twist on an age-old refresher that once graced aristocratic Venetian tables. 

get the recipe

12

Classic Negroni cocktail

Perfect for the entry-level cocktail

Wondering what cocktail to serve on your first date? The Negroni is one of the easiest cocktails to make and is the perfect crowd-pleaser.

get the recipe

13

French 75 cocktail

Simple, elegant and celebratory

This is a classic cocktail and for good reason! The simple blend of gin, champagne and lemon creates a delicate but sweet taste that’ll have your date asking for seconds.

get the recipe

14

Pimm’s peach cocktail

An unexpected peachy punch

Mix-up your weeknight with a sweet cocktail featuring decadent peaches baked in Pimm’s syrup. A little fruity and a little tangy, this fresh cocktail is best served with cream to balance the flavour.

get the recipe

The post 14 easy cocktail recipes to impress your date this Valentine’s Day appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“We tried to really honour the era of the home and the type of home it was,” Courtney told Domain. “Everything from tapware to door knobs to lighting … is really traditional in style. We just tried to make it look like it’s always been like that.”

Now, with the family ready for their next chapter, this lovingly transformed home is up for grabs. Expressions of interest are open with Dodds Real Estate until February 12, with a price guide of $2.8 million. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of Byron Bay living – with a touch of vintage charm and maybe even Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky as neighbours – this is your chance.

A look back at where it all began…

If you followed lifestyle blogger Courtney Adamo on Instagram in 2015, you’ll know that it was the year her life changed. It was the year that the Adamo family sold their London home and packed up their lives to travel the world for a year, homeschooling their five kids as they journeyed through the United States, Peru, Brazil, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Sri Lanka and Italy.

It was on this trip that the Adamos first visited Byron Bay in northern New South Wales. It’s a coveted area where plenty of famous Aussie personalities reside, including Shelley Craft who has a home inspired by Tuscan villas.

Courtney and her family fell for the area’s laidback lifestyle: surfing in the morning, hot coffee on the walk home, cooking family dinners in the evening under a syrupy Byron sunset. At the end of their sabbatical, the family of seven decided to leave London behind and put down permanent roots in Australia.

They chose Bangalow, a town just outside of Byron, famous for its bustling farmer’s market, and had been living there for some months before Courtney and her husband Michael spotted the house they now call home.

“I came to see it out of curiosity, with zero expectations,” she recalls. “When I walked into the house, I felt immediately at home. Having lived in London for 12 years, always in old Victorian homes, I felt right at home in this old house with its creaky floors and old windows, tall ceilings, and rickety old doorknobs. I felt like I was being hugged.”

Some pretty serious renovations were in order: the Adamos remodelled the house, moving the kitchen to the rear of the home so it would overlook the garden, and added a laundry room, second bathroom and one extra bedroom.

In terms of decoration, Adamo went for simple, open and inviting, hanging the family’s treasured pieces of art from their travels on every wall and letting in as much light as possible through big, open windows.

The result is an airy and relaxed family home, full of life and love. A place where kids can cook in the kitchen with their father, or grab a surfboard and head out to the beach. It’s also where Courtney works, sitting at her little desk overlooking the garden and crafting e-courses on motherhood and pregnancy, or sharing snapshots of the family’s life on Instagram.

“I wanted to create a home that felt unique to our family, with mementos from our travels, favourite art on the walls, favourite books on display, most-loved toys in baskets, plants in pots,” she explains. “It gives me so much pleasure creating a place that feels like home to our family.”

This is an edited extract from The Makers by Bed Threads, published by Hardie Grant Books.

The post Courtney Adamo’s family home in Bangalow is for sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

It’s often the smallest changes that have the biggest impact, so don’t feel as though you have to undertake a full-scale renovation to make a return. In fact, when renovating for profit it’s very important to avoid overcapitalising.

Here, we run through 12 easy things you can do to make your home more appealing to buyers as well as increase its value.

12 easy ways to increase the value of your home

1. A new paint job

A new coat of paint is the easiest and most cost-effective way to refresh the look of your home while boosting value. Decide whether you want to redo the whole house or focus on a couple of rooms, or perhaps a feature wall?

As for the colour, it’s important to select a shade with broad appeal. Check out our list of Australia’s most popular paint colours for inspiration.

2. Increase storage space

Unless you’re converting to hardcore minimalism, zero storage space is going to be a massive shortfall for potential buyers.

Think open shelves in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry. Additionally, installing hooks on the back of doors is another simple convenience that’s often overlooked.

3. Add solar panels

Solar panels will increase the value of your home by improving your energy efficiency of your property. This won’t only appeal to those home buyers concerned with their home’s sustainability model but also those simply wanting to cut costs on their energy bills.

4. Improve the outdoor area

An outdoor space perfect for entertaining will increase the desirability of your home.

While shade and shelter are essential, fire pits have also become a popular addition to many backyards.

4. Install gas heating and appliances

Gas appliances are a favourite home feature for a couple of reasons plus they’re efficient. Gas heaters and in particular, flame-effect fires, give all the warmth and comfort of a wood heater without the hassle or damage to the environment.

Installing gas cooktops and ovens add value in the kitchen and is often preferred to electric ovens and cooktops due to its ability to provide instant heat and even temperature compared to electric. As for the environment, gas may produce less greenhouse gas emissions than electricity.

5. Simple swaps

It’s possible to create a whole new bathroom look without renovating. Small, but modern updates, such as replacing handles and taps is a simple way to elevate the appearance of this room.

Consider painting tiles if they look old, or grubby. If your vanity is outdated, replacing it will make a remarkable difference to the feel of the room.

6. Street appeal

A home’s kerb appeal influences desirability. Adding a fence can be expensive but won’t necessarily increase the value of your home. However, it would be worth fixing and painting any existing fences around the property.

Additionally, replacing or painting your front door a different colour will boost your curb aesthetic for little cost.

7. Stage it right

Don’t underestimate the results on buyers of making your home look at though it’s ready to move into – new fresh pillows and linen on beds, clutter free cupboards and surfaces and all rooms sparkling clean and ready to go wont put off those not willing to exert themselves towards a makeover as soon as they move in

Essentially, staging your home for sale is all about selling the idea of a life there to prospective buyers. Perhaps people can look past a little dodgy paint work and a few easy fixes, but if you do the work for them, they’ll focus instead on the possibilities of a life to be enjoyed in your home.

8. Build a granny flat 

It’s becoming more common for generations of families to live together and split the cost of living.

If you have space, adding a granny flat to your property can increase the overall value as long as it’s done right. They’re also a great way to generate an income to help pay off that mortgage.

10. Remove all personal possessions

“One of the biggest rules of presenting an attractive home is to declutter it, remove all personal photographs and elaborate ornamental displays,” says Laura Pollard, head of product at PerfectRoom. 

“You can tackle this yourself with some online inspiration or you can bring in a professional. Booking a one-off appointment with a design consultant to advise on what to keep and what to store can provide the guidance needed. Alternatively, hire a home styling company to bring in furniture and decorative pieces for a complete design overhaul.”

11. Increase square footage

“Adding to the square footage of any home, as long as it’s highly functional, should add a substantial amount of value,” says Laura.

“Consider whether you can convert the roof space into a guest bedroom, office or extra storage space for example. Even if there isn’t space for a fixed staircase, often a pull-down ladder is an option and there are many companies who specialise in creating this space.”

12. Walk through with a real estate agent

“Much like styling, inviting a local real estate agent into your home can help to define exactly what will and won’t add enough value to make it worth doing,” says Laura.

“Walk through the property with the agent and ask them exactly what they would recommend. They see things through the eyes of a buyer and can make recommendations around finishes, how to add privacy, walls to remove, areas to upgrade and more. You can ask them exactly how much value it could add as they will have comparable properties to use as a reference.”

The post 12 easy ways to increase the value of your home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

There is plenty of advice out there on bathroom design,  and there’s no doubt that this small space requires big decisions. There are those who want their bathroom design to go all out with bright colour and va-va-voom. Others prefer a simple look, think spa-like tranquility. Read on for the need-to-know of tile shopping, with plenty of bathroom tile design ideas.

Planning points

Budgeting is key. Factor in the supply cost of tiles, and the labour. “Anything above a standard ‘bond’ lay of 300mm x 600mm tiles adds to the laying costs,” explains Vanessa Cook of Smarter Bathrooms. Small tiles in sheets can be time consuming to lay, while large formats may need two tilers on site due to their weight. Extra-large tiles are on trend, but are especially tricky as they need flat walls and floors – and if you are revamping an old house you may need to resurface your room, adding to the cost.

Budget tiles can look amazing arranged in an unusual way, but be warned: “Laying a herringbone or a chevron pattern is complex, as the pattern must line up,” says Vanessa, who advises checking with a tiler if a pattern lay is feasible with your chosen tile before ordering. Balancing higher labour cost areas with a simple tile and lay in non-feature spaces can help. How you lay bathroom tiles has a big impact on the overall look, so do your research and decide what look you’re going for.

Feature tiles help direct attention towards the prettier parts of the room, so put them to work behind a hero item – not the loo! – and keep the remaining walls simple. undefined

Perfect placement

A uniform scheme of the same tile on floor and walls will help visually enlarge a small space, with grout lines matched to flow flawlessly between the surfaces. Conversely, a contrasting floor tile helps define the room. “Subtle variation within a floor tile will be more forgiving than a solid colour, which can appear flat and a little dated,” suggests interior designer Naomi Nimmo of Nimmo Nielsen Collective. “Where budget permits, feature tiles work best on a decent scale such as an entire wall, not just a small niche,” adds Naomi. Running an attractive floor tile up one wall is another option, and this creates the illusion of a longer room, while contrasting grout can help make a feature of a plain tile. However, make sure the grout is sealed to help prevent it discolouring in patches.

“Gone are the days of selecting dark grout on the floor to avoid unseemly staining – you can now use lighter grout colours, which will not change over time.” Vanessa Cook

Nailing your bathroom tile design look

With so many tiles available in all shapes, sizes, styles and textures, pinning down a favourite can be tricky. The look of the rest of your home can be a useful guide – brick-laid subways in misty grey, blue and white have a Hamptons vibe, for example – but don’t feel bookmarked. Blurring the lines between styles helps you stay faithful to your own taste. Creating a mood board of images gathered from magazines and websites will assist with narrowing down your preferences, and handy helpers, such as the Beaumont Tiles ‘What’s My Style’ online quiz, can provide inspiration and even tailored mood boards for your pet project. “It’s just like having a stylist to help you discover your current style, no matter what your budget or your purpose for renovation,” says Rachel Gilding, strategic designer at Beaumont Tiles.

“Using colour can be daunting to many renovators, but when done well can be rewarding and create visually stunning environments” Rachel Gilding

Style matters

For longevity – important with a fixed finish such as tiling – steer clear of short-lived trends and aim for a simple design. In classic white, there are lots of subtle finishes and inviting shapes that give the monochrome look interest. “Marble is a timeless stone which will never date and it’s being used more broadly,” says Naomi Nimmo, referring to emerging colourways such as dusty pink and spearmint. Terrazzo’s return to glory shows no sign of abating, while our taste for metallic details is hitting tiling territory, with finishes from silver to rose gold adding glint and glamour. If you’re planning for the long haul, use metallics sparingly, as highlights rather than in swathes. Coloured grout has been having a moment, and can lift plain white tiles but, for a timeless look, match grout to tiles.

The post How to choose the perfect bathroom tile design appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The first step is choosing a mattress, arguably the most crucial step. You should buy the best mattress, and the largest mattress you can fit in your bedroom, says Rachel Beard, Sleep Wellness Manager at A. H. Beard. Buying the mattress is also the biggest investment, so you really need to do your research. We’ve made a start for you and have honed in on all the latest advice, innovations and inspiration to consider before you buy.

Choosing the best mattress for your sleep needs

Understanding your needs should be your prime consideration. If you have a bad back or suffer other aches and pains, you need to make sure you’re supported in all the right places, and make sure the comfort layers will relieve pressure.

“You could look for natural Talalay latex, as this has excellent pressure-relieving qualities, it’s supportive and derived from nature, so it is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic,” suggests Rachel. If you run hot at night, choose materials that will draw heat and moisture away from the body.

Tips for selecting the best mattress

1. Take health issues into account
   Do you have health issues? If you suffer from things like sleep apnea, get professional medical advice beforehand as to what mattress type (e.g. firmness) would be best for you.
2. You get what you pay for
   Quality comes first. Purchasing a high-quality mattress may cost a pretty penny, but it’s an investment that is worthwhile.
3. Seek advice from a specialist
   An outlet that specialises in mattresses is more likely to have specially trained staff than one where it’s only part of the business.
4. Count the springs
   If it’s a spring mattress, investigate how many springs there are (the more, the better). Just make sure the comfort layers suit your needs.
5. Try before you buy
   With all the different types of mattresses available, don’t be afraid to shop around in the form of free trials. If you’ve only slept on one type previously, you may find another type now suits you more. See if the brand offers a trial period for a new purchase.
   

What are the best quality mattresses to buy for 2024?

01

Emma Comfort Adapt Plus mattress

from $1200, Emma Sleep

If you’re familiar with Emma Sleep’s range of mattresses, you’ll know that the original Comfort mattress is praised for its incredible support, comfort (as the name suggests), and quality. Now, the brand has upgraded its best-seller with a second rendition with better airflow and comfort thanks to its edge-to-edge pocket springs. The Infinity pocket springs increase the size for maximum airflow, so reaching the ideal body temperature for a restful night’s sleep is easy. Combine that with breathable foam layers, and you’ll have yourself a humid-free sleep all year round, but especially in summer.

Shop Now

02

Crown Jewel Royale Medium mattress

from $2515.50 (usually $5590), David Jones

BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: 55% off and free delivery

Where innovation meets expert craftsmanship for an unparalleled luxury sleep experience, built on a heritage of orthopaedic design, the intelligent RestSUPPORT system adapts to your body’s unique shape, ensuring perfect alignment and support. The reinforced UniCasedXT edge provides a full sleep surface, while the ComfortBridge layer transitions weight seamlessly for uninterrupted rest. Plush Sealy and Supersoft foams, combined with a Silk Wool fibre blend, cradle you in lasting comfort. Complete your sleep set with a designer base, crafted from premium Australian timber and customisable in luxurious jacquard fabrics.

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03

Origin Hybrid Pro mattress

from $949.20 (usually $1249), Origin Mattress

BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: 55% off and free delivery

Perfect for hot sleepers, the Origin Hybrid Pro mattress is a cooling mattress designed with eight comfort layers for the perfect night’s sleep. With an extra-plush pillowtop and a SmartClimate cooling system, there’s a reason why this mattress won Premium Mattress of the Year in 2024 in both Australia and the UK. Still unconvinced? You can try it out for yourself with its 120-day trial and free delivery options.

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04

The Koala Plus mattress

from $990 , Koala

Koala’s most advanced mattress yet has arrived. The Plus mattress is made for the sweltering Aussie summer ahead. Boasting an array of cooling properties, such as the brand’s innovative CoolThread technology that provides improved ventilation, breathable cooling Kloudcell for advanced airflow, and a zip-off seasonal topper that can be flipped as often as the weather changes. Plus, if you’re planning to share a bed with a partner, its Zero Disturbance technology is built to isolate motion so you achieve uninterrupted sleep.

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05

Celestial mattress

from $1,949 (usually $3,899), Freedom

BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: 50% off

Designed and made in Australia and named to evoke the feeling of sleeping in heaven, the Celestial has a luxurious Tencel fabric cover, Warwick fabric sides and matching base and comes with a 10-year warranty. A full-foam edge and gel-infused memory foam topper provide extra comfort and support in three ‘feels’: firm, medium and plush, while the design – including vegan leather piping and handles – was inspired by architectural structures in our cities. 

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06

A.H. Beard Domino Sapporo plush mattress

from $560 (usually $818), Appliances Online

DEAL: 33% off

Australian-owned mattress manufacturer A.H. Beard has been around for 120 years, so they know how to put together a good mattress. One of its highest-rated mattresses is the Domino Sapporo plush, which has been described by purchasers as “so comfortable”. The plush quilting design allows air to flow through the mattress, keeping you cool as you sleep. 

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07

Comfort Sleep Emporio Alto mattress

from $2024 (usually $2699), BedWorks

DEAL: 25% off

Are you looking for a firm, Australian-made mattress that prevents partner disturbance? Consider your search over. The Comfort Sleep Emporio Alto mattress from BedWorks features a gel-infused memory foam layer that contours the mattress to your body, keeping you nice and cool all night long. Available for next-day delivery in the Sydney Metro area and comes with a 10-year warranty.

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08

Cirrus mattress

from $374, (usually $749), Freedom

BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: 50% off

The Cirrus mattress is an affordable Australian-made mattress featuring a three-zone spring system and a layer of premium high-density foam that contours to your body. The edge of this mattress is also reinforced, so there’s more surface area to stretch out on, too.

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09

Duo mattress

from $890 (usually $1780), Wow Beds

BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: 50% off and free delivery

WowBeds’ Duo Mattress is a boxed mattress with a difference. It comes with not just one but two layers of twice-tempered steel springs for the ultimate support and comfort. All mattresses come with a complimentary hybrid pillow made with luxury foam and responsive micro springs.

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10

SD MACH II

from $999, Sleeping Duck

Sleeping Duck’s award-winning mattress is more comfortable than ever, with layers designed to help you sleep well. Each spring acts independently, tailoring the mattress to support specific parts of your body. The bamboo cover is soft and silky and is even removable and machine washable for easy maintenance.

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11

Pure mattress

from $1085 (usually $1550), Ecosa

BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: 30% off

Ecosa’s Pure mattress is 100 per cent carbon neutral. Made from three layers of latex foam combined with micro coils, pocket springs and recycled felt, this mattress will evenly distribute your weight across the surface, making you feel like you’re floating on a cloud.

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How often should you replace your mattress?

How often should you replace your mattress? It’s a common question many ask. It’s recommended you change your mattress every seven to 10 years, according to Rachel Beard of A.H. Beard.

“Sometimes we can feel it in our body first before we can see the physical signs of having to replace a mattress,” says Rachel. “If you’re constantly waking up with aches and pains, your mattress may not be delivering the correct level of comfort and support. Or, if you’re constantly hot throughout the night.” Also, if there are significant body indentations, spills or stains, it’s probably time for a replacement.

New innovations in mattresses

A new mattress will give you the benefit of new technology, designed to give you a much better night’s sleep. “A new innovation has been the introduction of a second layer of pocket springs. This additional layer adds to the back support, improves airflow and assists in reducing partner disturbance,” says Wowbeds founder and sleep expert Gary Ginsberg, adding: “Mattresses are now using a variety of features working in parallel to reduce heat, ranging from ventilated sides to materials like cool gel memory foam.”

How to make a mattress last longer

A mattress is a big investment so you need to look after it. “A mattress protector is always the best way to keep your mattress clean, both from normal use as well as the odd drink spill,” says Gary.

“Rotate your mattress from head to toe every three to four months to ensure you get even wear.”

Rachel agrees: “Certain mattress protectors can also help with temperature regulation. Also, ensure you use a supportive base. This helps provide the best possible support for the mattress and will help prolong its life.”

The post The best mattresses for a restful night’s sleep appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Some homes in particular, however, seem to really capture your hearts, garnering thousands of likes, shares and saves on Facebook and Instagram. This year, your favourites were varied and unexpected, ranging from exteriors that ooze kerb appeal to newly built homes with architectural details. Hamptons style homes with wide verandahs and sprawling gardens were also a big hit.

Here are 10 of the most popular Home Beautiful homes this year, as chosen by you!

Your favourite Australian homes of 2024

Josh and Jenna’s Rutherglen Homestead revival

An epic, beguiling country home renovation.

After moving from inner-Melbourne to regional Victoria, The Block 2011 contestants Josh and Jenna began work on a homestead nicknamed ‘The Castle’. “It’s perched up on a hill overlooking Rutherglen, so it had the presence of a castle,” explains Jenna.

The pair shared the process of taking it from unliveable conditions to a warm and inviting family home. This included the installation of a brand new shiny galvanised iron roof and bullnose verandah, a whimsical and nostalgic guest bedroom and a rumpus room painted in a serene shade of green, plus an extension that was designed to take advantage of the property’s glorious views. 

see inside

The Block judge Darren Palmer’s freshly renovated Bondi home

A sleek city pad.

This year, interior designer and Block judge Darren Palmer let Home Beautiful inside the gorgeous home he shares with husband, Olivier Duvillard, their teenage son and two dogs, Frankie and Razzie. As a judge on The Block, it was no surprise that Darren’s own home became a reader’s favourite, with the sandy pink tones, unique artworks and minimalistic design winning us over.

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The heavenly family home of Sam and Snezana Wood

A dream home for a dream family.

The stunningly renovated Elsternwick home of fitness guru Sam Wood and his wife, Snezana, is a testament to the life they’ve built together – sleek, sexy and seriously high-end.

We had a chat with the man himself about the essential ingredients it took to make this “quintessentially Melbourne” house a home for their family of six. Some of his favourite details? The combo of three things: dark parquetry flooring, high ceilings and arches, and steel frame windows. 

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A century-old farmhouse and its magical, Paul Bangay-designed garden

Crackling fires, homegrown vegies and pink sunsets.

Bianca, who is originally from Adelaide, and Nick, a surfer boy from Queensland, were up for a tree change. They went to check out this property and were met with the romantic reality of a 1900s two-bedroom farmhouse, Paul Bangay-designed garden and rolling paddocks.

With its wide verandahs, rambling roses, leafy vegie patches and 41 Black Angus cows, this picturesque place wouldn’t be out of place in a Beatrix Potter story.

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Samantha Armytage’s idyllic Hyams Beach ‘shack’ is open for holiday rentals

Plus the incredible before & after interior transformation

The waterfront beach shack owned and renovated by journalist and TV personality Samantha Armytage is a favourite with Home Beautiful readers for a reason—its all-white colour palette and laid-back coastal aesthetic epitomises what many of us want in a beach house.

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A heavenly Hamptons-style new build on the Northern Beaches

A slice of the Hamptons in Sydney

After spying a run-down home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, serial renovators Alex and Janette Stritt, a husband and wife building and design team, embarked on a full knockdown and built this Hamptons-style abode in its place. With its airy interiors and classic Hamptons colour palette, the result is simply bliss.

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Zoe and Benji Marshall’s lavish Sydney home

A simple renovation snowballed into a brilliant makeover.

As soon as Zoe found interior designer Evalyn Nicolas of Design Studio 407, the renovation of her family’s newly-purchased home took off. “She had such incredible ideas,” says Zoe.

The five-bedroom, tri-level house in a harbourside suburb on Sydney’s North Shore was so “impressive in scale,” explains Evalyn – bigger than the Marshalls’ previous home in Sydney’s Inner West – and deserving of updates that would do it justice. The results are absolutely stunning, including an entire wing of the house that’s designed just for Zoe.

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A Hamptons dream home created from a tired weatherboard cottage

Newly built with everything the family wanted.

Annabel was pregnant with her and Thomas’s eldest son when they first moved to Avalon, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. After the birth of their younger son, the pair engaged architect Andrew Barnyak to plan their new home.

With council approval granted for the two-storey Hamptons-style property, and with the build well underway, Annabel could turn her attention to the fun stuff, with help from interior designer Janette Stritt. By completion of the project, the cottage they first found was a far cry from the graceful, family home that now stands in its place.

read more

Recipetin Eats founder to sell North Sydney mansion after just 3 months

Inside the home of Australia’s favourite food blogger.

With its wrap-around sandstone verandah, large swimming pool and expansive, park-like garden, its not a surprise that the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home owned by Recipetin Eats founder Nagi has been a favourite with Home Beautiful readers this year.

see inside

A growing family renew and expands their beloved beach house

A modern coastal home

Tasked to create a modern coastal home that was functional and beautiful, Amy devised a palette that incorporated engineered timber floors, stone features and quality fixtures.

see inside

The post 2024’s favourite Australian homes, as chosen by you! appeared first on Home Beautiful.

So what makes a shade of white warm? It helps to think about shades of white along a spectrum. White can range from cool (e.g. Dulux Lexicon Quarter) to neutral (Benjamin Moore White Dove) to warm (Haymes Pulp White 1). Warm whites will have yellow or pink undertones, whereas cooler shades will have blue or black undertones. “Warm and cool whites have different undertones and can help set a mood within a room,” explains Dulux colour expert, Andrea Lucena-Orr.

Considering the following will help you select the best warm white shade for your home: the history of the home, the amount of natural light the home receives and the type of mood you want to create. Here, we speak to expert renovators and stylists to uncover their tips for selecting the right white.

Most popular warm whites

Warm shades of white regularly make the list of best-selling paint colours:

• Dulux Natural White
• Dulux Antique White USA
• Dulux Whisper White
• Dulux Hog Bristle Quarter

• Haymes Pulp White 1
• Haymes Gradient 1
• Haymes Liveable White 

• Benjamin Moore Simply White
• Benjamin Moore Cloud White
• Benjamin Moore White Dove

1. Patch Test

“Always always trial a generous test patch first,” says Julia Green, Stylist, Writer, Presenter and Director of Greenhouse Interiors. That way you can find the right white for your space.

“Paint a large swatch of your shortlisted colours on the wall – immediately all is revealed about their differences and their nuances. Ensure you look at the painted swatches in the morning, the afternoon and at night to see how the colour changes under different light conditions,” says Lana Taylor, Marketing Director, Three Birds Renovations.

“My advice is to always use a sample pot or a brush out; bringing your two to three favourite whites into the space you intend to paint, comparing them in the light at different times of the day,” says Lucy Feagins, Founder and editor, The Design Files.

2. Consider lighting

If you don’t have much natural light, warm whites are much better than cool, which tend to cast a dark shadow in the shade. 

“You need to think about how you want to feel in the space first and foremost. Then consider your surrounds and the amount of natural light that enters your space. Cool whites have a blue/black base, and translate as sharp, fresh, crisp and contemporary on the walls. They also neutralise natural sunlight so work well in north facing rooms where sunlight is at its peak; whereas warmer whites have a yellow/brown base and throw off warmer hues making a room feel cosier,” says Julia.

3. Personalise

Despite these practicalities, it’s important to consider how you want to feel in the space. This will dictate your colour choice in the biggest way and help you decide between cool and warm whites based on their different properties,” says Julia.

“Don’t fall into the trap of trends when choosing a white,” says Sara Chamberlain, founder and creative director of The Real Estate Stylist. “Think about your house and the space you are selecting the white for. If you have a light and bright space with a cooler colour scheme in carpet or cabinetry, then a cooler white may be for you. If you want to add some warmth to an older property that has a warmer scheme, such as cream carpet or tiling, then perhaps a warm white is the way to go. Think of your white as the backdrop to the rest of your house.”

4. Consider heritage

“Generally, I like bright, slightly bluish-toned whites in contemporary, open plan and industrial spaces, and warmer whites are better suited to older spaces with period character, such as Victorian or Edwardian homes,” says Lucy.

The post How to choose the right shade of warm white paint appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Kate Nixon, stylist and designer

Christmas style: classic chic

“One of my favourite decorations is a glazed porcelain bauble, which smashed. My husband took a week to painstakingly glue it back together.”

Kate Nixon

A Christmas tradition in your house is… “Dressing the tree. We play Frank Sinatra, pop champagne and unpack our treasured decorations. We love to find trinkets when we travel, and there are so many precious memories when they’re carefully unwrapped each year. This is one part of my life I don’t try to style! The kids get creative with their craft and my husband, Tim, loves to load up the lights. It’s a festive free-for-all and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Christmas Eve or Christmas morning? “Both! I love Christmas Eve – we do a run to the Fish Market for fresh prawns with Iggy’s sourdough buns and Tim’s mum’s baked ham and hot English mustard. Christmas morning has been a tradition since I was a kid. My parents would go all out with fruit and yoghurt, a full baked breakfast then waffles and ice cream! We all love to cook, so time in the kitchen together is cherished.”
Formal or no fuss? “I like to set the table and wear a nice dress, but my apron’s always on and I’m cooking all day, which is my happy place.”
Your best Christmas dinnerware is… “Our white Wedgwood ‘Colosseum’ dinnerware set from our wedding registry, 20 years ago. Elegant and timeless, we use it everyday.”
Signature gift-wrap style? “My Quercus & Co wallpapers wrapped with twine and a sprig of rosemary or thyme.”
What’s your decorating style? “Classic and comfortable, polished and practical – equally at ease with effortless entertaining and everyday family life. I love an earthy palette of natural materials, tones and textures, and gathered pieces and treasures that will patina with age.”
What’s on your Christmas playlist? “Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole – all the classic crooners!”

Katie Sargent, Interior designer

Christmas style: neutral & green

“This is the first year that we, as a family, are hosting. We are looking forward to starting some new traditions.”

Katie Sargent

Your best Christmas dinnerware is… “Sandra from All Fired Up pottery made me a custom dinner set this year. She creates the most amazing petal-like pieces as well, so we incorporate that into the napkin rings and some of the serveware. This set is very special to me.”
Signature gift-wrap style? “I love wrapping a present almost as much as I love to style a table. I generally like to keep it simple – luxe paper, chiffon ribbon. I often incorporate fresh flowers into my gift wrapping.”
For Christmas, there’s no place I’d rather be than… “Wherever we are; with my husband and my kids, before the festivities have begun and it’s just us.”
What’s your decorating style? “Neutral with pops of green. I love anything textural, lots of linen, ribbon. It’s a bit of a running joke that there is never any room for the actual food on a table set by me.”
Favourite Christmas candle or fragrance? “Diptyque ‘Feu De Bois’ scented candle.”

Carlene Duffy, Designer

Christmas style: colourful

Formal or no fuss? “No fuss all the way.”
Your best Christmas dinnerware is… “Something lightweight. We have lots of people over for Christmas Day. That means a lot of crockery. They may not look like much, but the Corelle plates are slim and light, which makes a difference when you’re cleaning a lot of them.”
Signature gift-wrap style? “I’ve used leftover fabric a few times, which makes for difficult wrapping but with an effective outcome. I also favour block-coloured wrapping with contrasting ribbon.”
Your go-to host gift is… “Flowers. Not original, but a winner.”
For Christmas, there’s no place I’d rather be than…“At our house with the whole family.”
What’s your decorating style? “Eclectic. I’m scrappy, so I typically use what I have. I’ll put different tablecloths together if necessary and my cutlery doesn’t match – I don’t have a full set of anything! – so it’s piecemeal, but that’s part of the charm. I pull it all together with vintage brass vases full of foliage and flowers.”
What’s on your Christmas playlist? “I sing The Christmas Song in the shower year round. Strange but true.”
Favourite Christmas candle or fragrance? “I associate Christmas with summer holidays and the smell of coconut and lime together puts me straight into holiday mode.”
What’s at the top of your gift wish list? “Anything I don’t need to think about. I hate the question, ‘What do you want for Christmas?’ It just feels like something else I then need to think about. Surprise me.”
What is your favourite tree decoration? “I have the cutest handmade animals on my tree. They’re dressed in knitted human clothes. So cute!”

Kayla Gex, Interior stylist

Christmas style: vintage twist

A Christmas tradition in your house is… “Making sugar cookies with my eldest son Leo and his friends. They love to decorate them with icing and sprinkles.”
Christmas Eve or Christmas morning? “Christmas morning with my boys, but growing up I celebrated Christmas Eve with all my family on my mum’s side. It is a Guatemalan tradition to open presents and eat tamales at midnight.”
Formal or no fuss? “No fuss. My husband’s birthday is on Christmas Day, so we try to make it special for him too.”
What’s on the menu this year? “Always glazed ham and prawns. If we are home in Australia, I always try to make Flour and Stone’s Lemon Dream cake for dessert.”
Signature gift-wrap style? “My go-to is tonal colours or brown paper with pretty ribbon, but I’m always on the lookout for unique wrapping paper that has a vintage vibe. Anything with classic Christmas colours and old charm.”
Your go-to host gift is? “A big box of handmade Belgian chocolates from Woodstock Chocolate Co.”
For Christmas, there’s no place I’d rather be than… “I love making new traditions with my sons here in our home, but we also love spending Christmas in California with all of my family as well. There’s just something extra special about Christmas in the States.”
Favourite tipple to serve or drink? “Cucumber rosemary gin and tonic. For a non-alcoholic drink, I love homemade eggnog. My sisters and I would help our grandpa make it every Christmas and we still do to this day.”
What’s your decorating style? “I try to create a classic Christmas feel in our home with red, green, vintage touches, tarnished brass and twinkling lights. I miss the nostalgia of Christmas in the United States, where it is decoration overload everywhere you go.”

Related:

• How Home Beautiful’s Editor, Elle Lovelock, decorates for Christmas
• How a florist decorates for Christmas
• How to achieve the laid-back luxury look like Tara Dennis this Christmas

The post How four interior stylists decorate for Christmas appeared first on Home Beautiful.

A Christmas Q&A with Elle Lovelock

Christmas tradition in your house is… “To bake Dutch spiced biscuits and gingerbread men. The whole house smells incredible! We make extras to package up as gifts.”

Christmas Eve or Christmas morning? “Christmas Eve! I love the anticipation and magic. My son gets so excited about hanging his Christmas stocking and leaving a treat for Santa and the reindeer. After he goes to bed, my husband and I have a dinner of champagne, stinky cheese and oat cakes. With mince pies for dessert.”

Formal or no fuss? “I prefer formal. A beautifully-laid table full of the crystal, silver and china I’ve collected for the past 20 years, ‘best’ clothes, candles and classical Christmas music. These days, there are so few occasions where you can really go to town, so I love to make the most of it.”

Your best Christmas dinnerware is… “A set of Wedgwood white china with platinum Christmas motifs. Plus, my favourite Waterford crystal stemware, which we received as an engagement gift. It’s the Jasper Conran ‘Eternal’ design and is out of production, so when I see pieces pop up on eBay, I buy them!”

Your go-to host gift is… “My homemade Christmas chutney. It’s a Mary Berry recipe (if you know, you know).”

What’s your best advice for a stress-free Christmas day? “Choose recipes with prepare-in-advance elements and practise them in the lead up. Set the table the night before.”

What’s your decorating style? “Perhaps it’s my northern European heritage, but I love using red berries. They’re in my tree, on door wreaths, around candles and as garlands attached to the pendant light above my dining table.”

What is your favourite tree decoration? “The French Blue velvet tree ribbon from Balsam Hill. It’s divine.”

The post How Home Beautiful’s editor, Elle Lovelock, decorates for Christmas appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Whether feeding a family or cooking for one, kitchens are the heart of the home – and working around a worn out, cramped, or poorly designed space can be extremely frustrating. But an upgrade doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

With a modest budget, you can still make changes that enhance both functionality and flair, especially when you choose from kaboodle’s wide range of customisable, inexpensive DIY home renovation products. Here are five simple upgrades you can make that will have a big impact for a small fee.

1. Kitchen flooring

New flooring can breathe new life into your kitchen without straining your budget. Affordable, durable and easy to maintain materials like luxury vinyl planks or laminate offer the look of hardwood or tile at a fraction of the cost, proving that you don’t need to spend a lot to achieve a stunning transformation.

And a tip from those who know – update or repair your floor after you’ve installed a new kitchen, so that you don’t damage it in the process.

2. Kitchen cabinetry

One of the most impactful changes you can make is to update your cabinets. Instead of a full replacement, consider refacing, which means replacing the doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes.

With over 40 different door and panel colours and customisable widths available on all melamine and thermoformed doors in a modern profile, you can create your dream kitchen with Kaboodle.

Or, if you have a specific colour in mind, the new Paint Your Own Doors range also allows you the freedom to work with the exact shade that speak to you.

3. Kitchen benchtops

Benchtops can dramatically transform your kitchen, whether as a functional workspace, bold design statement, or both. Whether you choose light or neutral colours to brighten the space or dark tones to add depth and character, you’ll feel like you’ve done a complete renovation.

Kaboodle’s laminate benchtops are chic, budget-friendly, and available in five aesthetics – stone look, solid colour, concrete look, timber look, and bamboo and timber. They’re easy to clean and maintain, offering an enjoyable space for cooking and gathering.

4. Kitchen lighting

Often overlooked, lighting plays a crucial role in every type of room, in style as well as substance. Getting creative with lighting is a fantastic way to elevate the look and feel of your kitchen without spending your life’s savings or tearing up the entire space.

Modernise your kitchen (and maximise your eyesight!) with kaboodle’s under-cabinet LED lighting panels. Highly efficient, available in a range of lengths, and cleverly designed to diffuse the light source.

5. Kitchen storage

If you think your kitchen space is organised and optimised to its full potential, think again. There’s an entire world of storage solutions you may have never heard of. Improve functionality, minimise clutter, and create a more spacious look and feel with floating shelves, lazy Susans, inserts and dividers, and more.

From pull-out and open shelves to hanging racks, hidden bins and wireware, Kaboodle’s clever, discreet, and easy-to-install storage solutions can rise to every storage challenge and make any kitchen feel new.

The post 5 simple kitchen upgrades that won’t break the bank appeared first on Home Beautiful.

We asked our followers on Facebook and Instagram which room they would revamp with a budget of $10,000. Updates to kitchens, bathrooms and laundries dominated, with home offices, garages and even gardens – which one follower called her “outdoor room” – also in the mix.

You can do a lot with a little and there are ways to transform a living space you may not have considered. Here are some simple, impactful ideas to try when you feel like giving your space a refresh.

1. Appliances

From kettles to cake mixers, sleek modern or colour-popping kitchen appliances can be a focal point, not an afterthought. Plus, investing in energy-efficient appliances is good for the environment and can save you money long-term, especially if you buy during sales.

2. Lighting

New light fixtures can really change the way a room looks and functions. For example, effective laundry lighting is essential for spotting stains and reading garment-care labels, while under-cabinet lighting in bathrooms and kitchens can be an elegant, functional touch.

Kaboodle’s customisable lighting solutions can be integrated into any room, adding warmth, visibility and style to a space.

3. Paint or wallpaper

Feature walls are having a moment and a fresh coat of paint, elegant wallpaper, or wall mural can be a game changer.

Choose colours, patterns and textures that reflect how you want to feel in a particular room, be it calm, content, or creative.

4. Wall features

Streamline your study or brighten your kids’ bedrooms with floating shelves, classy corkboards, or modern whiteboards. New twists on these classic school and home office solutions help you showcase achievements, display inspiration and get organised, adding both functionality and personality to any space.

5. Cabinets

Are you getting the most out of your storage spaces? Could new or updated cabinetry solve all your problems? If a complete overhaul is beyond your budget, consider refinishing or repainting existing cabinet doors. New hardware is also a great option.

Kaboodle offers a range of DIY-friendly modular and customisable cabinet solutions with a wide selection of finishes and styles, plus stylish hardware options to mix and match.

6. Tech

Home tech can be a gamechanger – from TVs and sound systems to smart lighting to home assistants like Alexa and Google Home. From your hallway to your home office, new gadgets are a chic and fun way to add style, reduce clutter and enjoy life.

7. Greenery

Plants – real or artificial – are a wonderful way to boost the look, mood and air quality of any space. While adding them to benchtops, shelves and desktops works well, for surprising and stylish ways to incorporate greenery indoors, try hanging plants and living walls.

The post 7 easy home updates that make a big impact appeared first on Home Beautiful.

What are neutral colours?

Neutral colours don’t have to be all white and beige and can range from soft brown hues to pale sage greens with warm undertones. Taking inspiration from nature to focus on colours that work across an entire colour scheme is a great place to start. The key is to select an undertone to suit the mood and effect you’re after in your own home. Warm undertones tend to suit older homes as their scale is often more compact and the decorative architectural features can be beautifully highlighted by neutrals. A more contemporary space with square-set cornices and ceilings is made more dramatic with cooler tones to highlight the vastness of surfaces and seamless transitions.

Are neutral colours on trend?

While palettes using warm neutral colours and green-infused hues feature prominently in interior trends forecasts for 2024, texture is the real newcomer with beautiful wall finishes referencing the tactile delights of pearl and crushed stone. “Our desire to connect with nature, within our homes, blurs the line even further between indoors/outdoors as we start to bring traditionally exterior finishes, such as textured walls, inside,” says Wattyl Colour Ambassador Marylou Cafaro.

With neutrals as your base, it’s up to you to inject as much or as little colour into your home as you desire – keeping with the natural tones or contrasting with bolder strokes of colour in furnishings, artwork and decor – even changing with the seasons. “Once you have a few favourite neutral colours for your project in mind, the most important thing is to test your paint so you can see how it will look in your own home,” advises Product Manager at British Paints Carmen Jordan. “Pick up some sample pots, then test them out by painting a large piece of paper and sticking it up on your wall to view at different times of the day and night.”

Take a leaf out of the colour book of our experts and get started.

Home Beautiful Shop: Neutral Homewares

Previous

Toppu tray, Nordic Fusion

Hagi ceramic bowl medium, Nordic Fusion

Scalloped raffia basket 25cm, Blue Maisonette

Aurelia gold tablecloth, Blue Maisonette

Noosa towel beige, Mayde

Party tumbler in Clear, Blue Maisonette

Lulu woven swirl placemat, Blue Maisonette

‘Demi’ wall light, The Montauk Lighting Co

Certified organic cotton kids weighted blanket, Woven Woven

Antique look cookbook holder, Quality Products Direct

Watering can crystal 8L, Garden Glory

Square rattan napkin holder, Satara

Ella ceramic vase in cream, House of 9

Next

Neutral paint colours to choose from

A complex neutral colour scheme

“The Australian landscape gives such a wealth of colours and combinations to choose from,” says Wendy Rennie. “From earthy neutrals to rusty reds and soft greens, to the rich blues and deeper forest greens, combined with sandier warmer tones found at the oceanside and in our bushlands.”

“Try using Woodsmoke on walls, Snow White on the ceiling and Lambswool on trims,” suggests Melanie Stevenson of Porter’s Paints. “Woodsmoke is a complex grey, not a cool grey, that has undertones of yellow, violet and magenta. Lambswool is lighter, a white with a grey tone that teams and balances beautifully with Woodsmoke. Snow White is really an artist’s white. Very crisp and clean.”

For a slightly warmer grey/neutral colour combination, Dulux Colour Expert Andrea Lucena-Orr suggests, “A palette to provide an elegant natural scheme with a slight warmth, however, still creating an adaptable palette that schemes well with many other colours and accessories.” Her choices: Tranquil Retreat, Terrace White and Lexicon® Quarter, all Dulux.

A soft neutral colour scheme

Serene pale blue hues are perfectly balanced with whites, off-whites and soft beige tones to create a sense of simplicity and peace, as seen in Wattyl’s “Return To Simplicity” palette for 2022. When paired with subtle, tactile surfaces and textures the ambience is one of calm and relaxation, where we are invited to slow down, pare back and live in the moment.

Light, airy colours take on new meaning and significance when applied in a textured finish such as GranoImpact from Wattyl. The creamy paste-like finish can be applied by roller or spray to achieve a very subtle texture.

A contrasting neutral colour scheme

“Working with similar undertones, these greys (greiges) vary in shade, therefore creating a subtle and soft colour scheme,” advises Andrea Lucena-Orr of Dulux. “If you want to add a contrasting colour Western Myall will work with any of these softer greys.”

Wendy Rennie points to Sense, Marble Mist and Intrigue from the Haymes palette. “The perfect neutrals combination is grey, white and black,” she says. “This combination gives the ideal contrast between light and mid-tone colours to accentuate the features of the space. The black acts as the focal point of the combination, adding statement and punch to the overall scheme.”

“By combining neutrals in a manner that enhances and complements undertones, a well-considered and layered palette is created, which can be further enhanced by fabrics and materials.” Sharon Grech, Colour Marketing & Development, Benjamin Moore

Design tip

The power of a neutral colour scheme

“Never underestimate the power of neutrals when creating a colour scheme for the home,” says Sharon Grech, from Benjamin Moore Colour Marketing & Development. “There is incredible variety within neutrals from warm to cool, and pale to deep. Looking to the Benjamin Moore Color Trends 2022 palette, neutral hues deliver a grounded sensibility that creates a perfect backdrop – for both natural materials and textures, as well as collected treasures that stand out against a deep hue.”

“Neutral palettes are the most versatile of all colours and make a great canvas for any style,” says Carmen Jordan the Product Manager at British Paints. “They’re the ideal option if you’re looking for a shade that will stand the test of time, match in well with your existing home or are looking to sell in the future. You can blend multiple layers of neutral colour to create a soft, welcoming environment and finish with a pop of colour to complete the look.”

The post How to decorate with neutral colours appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Berry, New South Wales, is a regional town that enjoys proximity to both the countryside and the coast. A gateway to other towns but also a destination in its own right, Berry is less than two hours south of Sydney. It’s remote enough to offer a more peaceful life but still close enough to the action. This was one of the defining reasons for Neale Whitaker, an Australian television host and interior design expert, to make the tree change.

Moving from an inner-city terrace in Sydney’s Surry Hills, Neale now happily calls Berry home with his partner David, a former hair and make-up artist. In early 2024 it was announced that Neale was leaving The Block to spend more time with David who was dealing with some health issues. They share the country cottage with their dogs Teddy and Graham, and a much-loved senior horse named Bill, who lives on the property. The animals are as distinguished as their home, blending seamlessly into their romantic setting.

On the inside, this home delves into colour and texture. Each room is thoughtfully layered, with everything perfectly set in its place. Such attention to detail can sometimes feel forced, but the warmth of this interior is friendly and inviting – giving you permission to sit down, relax and even put your feet up. This is a testament to Neale’s experience in design as the former editor of magazines Belle and Vogue Living. Somewhat like a magazine article, this cottage is a series of vignettes that tell you a story as you move from room to room.

Neale and David’s character, history and travels are represented by unexpected moments where tradition meets contemporary, with an eclectic mixture of decor. Confident and unafraid to embrace a ‘more is more’ approach, the home is filled with memories that hint at a playful passion for life. Neale spends much of his time immersed in design and reviewing interiors, so it’s refreshing to see his own personal style flowing throughout the home. His design style is decisive, harmonious and fun – a unique brand of polished elegance with a laid-back undercurrent.

When renovating the home, the original features of the cottage were retained while its compact floorplan was improved. Neale and David started the work by opening up the living and dining area to facilitate better internal flow, and also renovated the kitchen. Over the years, they have added to the renovation with updated bathrooms and cosmetic changes to all three bedrooms and the verandah. Their most recent addition was building a freestanding guesthouse on the property, optimising their land to create a peaceful couple’s retreat. Now they’re able to offer guests a taste of their lifestyle – even if just for the weekend.

Living in the country might seem like a counter-intuitive choice for Neale given his demanding filming schedule and constant travel. However, it’s precisely the busy nature of his career that makes this home the perfect choice: it forces him to slow down and remove himself from distractions to better appreciate the calm.

Neale and David have created their own special safe haven – a place to be unapologetically slower. In doing so, they have proven that you can have both the career and lifestyle you desire. In this case, the pair have prioritised their way of living and made their careers work around it. It does require some sacrifice, but any inconvenience they face living away from the city is far outweighed by the benefit of enjoying a happy and peaceful life together in the country.

“Our home creates our lifestyle. It brings us peace and serenity and allows us to move at a slower pace (mostly, not always!) than we did when we were living in the city.’“

Neale Whitaker

Neale Whitaker home Q&A

How has your life changed since living here?

Life has changed in numerous ways for us in the time we have been here (not least of which were the changes brought about by Covid), but overall life feels more balanced and authentic. My work still requires me to travel regularly, so there is some planning involved in living here but it’s well worth the effort.

What drew you to the location?

We had been visiting this region of the New South Wales south coast regularly for many years before making the decision to move here permanently in 2018. It’s a beautiful area that offers the best of several worlds to us: rural location, proximity to the ocean and it’s less than a two-hour drive from Sydney.

What changes have you made to your home to make it your dream space?

Is there such a thing as a dream space? I’m not sure. But I guess our home would come pretty close. When we first moved in, we renovated the kitchen and opened up the main living/dining area. Over subsequent years we have renovated the bathrooms and made cosmetic changes to the bedrooms and the verandah area. We also built a guesthouse on our property in 2022.

Can you describe the community where you live?

Berry is a close-knit and inclusive community, comprising people who have lived in the region all their lives (or at least for many years), and people like us who have migrated from Sydney. The creation of a new suburb at nearby Huntingdale Park has introduced a younger demographic to the mix. It’s got a nice vibe.

What are some of the challenges of living where you do?

The biggest challenge, for me in particular, is the number of hours I spend weekly on the road between Berry and Sydney. Living in a rural or coastal area can require careful planning but any disadvantages are easily offset by the advantages.

This is an edited extract from Retreat by Lucy Glade-Wright, published by Hardie Grant Books and available to buy from Amazon.

The post Neale Whitaker’s country cottage set on rolling green acres appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Here are some enchanting (and adorable!) decorating ideas for kids’ bedrooms.

1. Choose a theme

As your child’s bedroom is the starting point for their adventures, why not lean into the fun with a theme? Whether they enjoy stargazing, fairytales or jungle exploring, a few carefully chosen decorative pieces can ignite their imagination. This can be as simple as a themed bedcover, rug or curtains that can be updated as they grow.

Wallpaper can also instantly transform a space, with kid-friendly options such as vinyl that can withstand play.

2. Upcycle furniture

Let magical scenes unfold in miniature by repurposing an existing cabinet, shelving unit or side table as a dolls’ house or display space for beloved toys. Your kids will take pride in styling their special spot, which – with a little luck – means it will stay neater for longer!

3. Add a canopy

Adventures in wonderland can unfold at home with a few tiny tweaks. Transform kids’ rooms into their very own fairyland with whimsical canopies, or stack mattresses à la The Princess and the Pea for some fable-inspired fun, perfect for rainy days.

A canopy delicately draped over a desk or bed creates a dreamy atmosphere while delineating play and sleep spaces. All you need is a carefully placed hook and some floaty fabrics for a cosy, nook-like feel.

4. Opt for bunk beds

While bunk beds are the ultimate space savers, they also transform into a ship sailing the high seas or a tall castle overlooking a vast kingdom. Make sleepovers extra comfortable with soft linens and pillows adorned in playful prints. Plus, customisable bunk options such as built-in drawers and desks help reduce clutter and keep their bedroom tidy.

Shop kids’ bedroom furniture

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Cotton kids’ weighted blanket in Cloudy Blue

$199, woven woven

Best for: Therapeutic snuggles

Weighing in at 2.2kg, this stylish blanket does double duty to provide calming comfort any time of day or night. Perfect for solo snuggles, it comes in a rainbow of colours for every room style to add a pop of colour or a touch of quiet charm.

Size: 100 x 130cm

Colour: Cloudy Blue, Aqua Green, Pastel Pink, Pepper Grey, Cream, Pink and Charcoal Grey

Material: 100% cotton

Key features:

• Also available in 1.5kg
• Machine washable in cold water
• Bead-free construction with even weight distribution

Shop Now

02

Jiggle & Giggle Isabella mouse toy

$37, Big W

Best for: Bedtime hugs

The charming Isabella is part of the ultra-cute mouse family available within the Jiggle & Giggle collection. Tailored for toddlers and newborns, this adorable toy is made from plush, child-safe materials for endless cuddles.

Size: 48cm

Colour: Cream

Material: Polyester

Key features:

• Designed in-house
• High-quality
• Spot clean only

Shop Now

03

Rattan mushroom basket in Musk

$98.95, Olli Ella

Best for: Bedtime hugs

Flip the top of this mushroom-shaped abode to discover a delightful world filled with child-like imagination. Equal parts toy, accessory and decor showpiece, this is the perfect gift for anyone who believes in fairies.

Size: H22 x W22 x Interior D13cm

Colour: Natural and musk pink

Material: Rattan

Key features:

• Hinged top for easy storage
• Carry handle
• Second access for little hands via tiny front door

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04

Betti Bobbin tallboy in Ice Blue

$369.99 (now $295.95), Mocka

Best for: Stylish bedroom storage

Charming rounded bobbin detailing and a vibrant blue hue lend a playful twist to this classic tallboy. The pull-out drawers provide ample storage for clothes or toys, while brushed bronze knobs and pine legs complete this striking furniture centrepiece. Just place a few toys on top to add a personal touch.

Sizes: Tallboy and beside table

Colour: Ice blue

Materials: MDF and pine

Key features:

• Modern heirloom look
• For the bedroom and playroom
• Intricate detailing

Shop Now

05

Dinosaur Appreciation Society wall banner in Shell

$39.95 Hello Saturday

Best for: Dino lovers big and small

Fly your flag to celebrate all things Jurasic with this brilliant canvas banner! Rig up to a bunk bed, tent or hang straight on the wall and unite the gang to hold dinosaur appreciation meetings underneath.

Size: 49.5 x 41.5cm

Colours: Shell or Fern

Materials: Canvas with metal eyelets

Key features:

• 2 x 18mm eyelets
• Eithically sewn by hand in China
• Printed and assembers by hand in Australia
• Other designs available

Shop Now

06

Hideout canopy bed in Natural

$749, Freedom

Best for: Playing hide and seek

Transform your child’s bedroom into a campsite with this tent-style canopy bed. Featuring a solid oak frame and a canvas top, it creates the perfect retreat. Simply add a comfy mattress and a few pillows, and let their dreams take flight!

Size: King single

Colour: Natural

Materials: Solid oak, engineered board and canvas 

Key features:

• Rustic look
• Includes frame and canopy
• Easy assembly

Shop Now

07

Double sided quilt cover in Lilac/Blush

from $265, I Love Linen

Best for: A good night sleep

This double-sided quilt cover is made for sweet dreams. European flax linen ensures the cover is soft and breathable, while stonewashing gives it an incredibly plush feel. For a colour refresh, simply flip the cover inside out.

Sizes: Single, double, queen, king and super king

Colours: Clay, Beige Gingham, Crème, Sandalwood, Indigo, Indigo Stripe, Ivy Gingham, White, Ivy and Ivy Stripe

Material: European Flax®

Key features:

• Natural fibres
• Stonewashed French linen
• Recyclable packaging

Shop Now

08

Rattan daisy wall basket

$108.95, Olli Ella

Best for: Secrets

Tuck treasures inside this sweet wall basket that’s a joy for all ages. Pop in a plant, perch a pair of favourite toys or fill to the brim with colourful hair accessories and hang it on the wall by the mirror for busy mornings.

Size: L40 x W15 x H40cm

Materials: Natural rattan

Key features:

• Decorative and functional
• Fun for small hands ages 3+
• Handwoven sturdy yet lightweight construction

Shop Now

09

Kids’ hammock swing chair

$58.95, Myer

Best for: Cosy hangouts

Looking for a comfy beanbag alternative? This stylish hammock is perfect for playtime or unwinding with a book. With sturdy knots and a hanging rope, it can be set up both indoors and outdoors. Just find a hook and and it’s ready to swing!

Sizes: 100cm x 100cm x 120cm

Materials: Cotton and polyester

Key features:

• Holds up to 120kg
• Eco-friendly
• Lightweight

Shop Now

10

Dino explore decorative rug

from $89.99, Adairs Kids

Best for: Comfort and warmth

Dinosaur lovers will adore this cute tufted rug where Triceratops and Stegosaurus roam. Available in both small and large sizes, this delightful dino rug adds a soft feel underfoot, perfect for bedrooms and playrooms alike.

Sizes: Small and large

Colours: Giant Floral, Pretty Daisy and Rainbow

Material: Cotton

Key features:

• Tufted cotton
• Large dinosaur design
• Available in 3 styles

Shop Now

11

Albus fabric bunk bed in Cream White

$499, Luxo Living

Best for: Sleepovers and slumber parties

What could be better for a sleepover than a comfortable and stylish bunk bed? The Albus is available in calming neutral tones, making it ideal for any style of bedroom, while a foam filling and linen cover add an inviting touch. Plus, a built-in ladder and guard rail ensure your little ones stay safe and secure.

Sizes: 98cm x 204cm x 171cm

Colours: Cream White and Ash

Materials: Engineered wood, solid oak and linen

Key features:

• Durable headboards
• Space-saving
• Faux linen fabric

Shop Now

12

Minou wallpaper in Neutral

$247 per roll, Wallpaper Direct

Best for: Peter Rabbit-style bedrooms

The woodland creatures on this wallpaper are straight from the pages of a fairy tale, featuring fuzzy rabbits, toadstools and wildflowers. Choose from two colorways, Neutral and Blue, to suit both light and dark colour schemes.

Colours: Neutral and Blue

Key features:

• Whimsical design
• Paste the wall application
• Standard wallpaper

Shop Now

13

Rainbow road kids’ blue cushion

$49.95 (now $34.95), Kids by Pillow Talk

Best for: A colourful statement

This plush rainbow cushion brings colour and fun to any space with a super cute, embroidered rainbow on soft cotton. Tassels add a textured touch, making it a cushy addition to bedrooms and reading nooks.

Size: 45cm x 45cm

Colours: Blue

Material: Cotton

Key features:

• Soft fabric
• Embroidered details
• Tassels

Shop Now

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The post Whimsical kids’ bedroom ideas that are made for playtime appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“The Mediterranean look is moving away from the modern white-on-white bohemian look to a much more eclectic, playful-meets-elegant and sophisticated style,” says Fiona. Hallmarks include mismatched vintage furniture, stripes, Murano glass, tumbled tiles and brass and wrought iron – yet still with a nod to that beloved blue-and-white colour palette. “We’re bringing a slice of Europe to our homes in a new, very creative and quirky way,” she adds. Read on to see how you can welcome the new Mediterranean style into your space, your way.

1. Make a statement

The old-meets-new direction makes a reappearance in this trend, as we’re led to invest in statement pieces that have wow factor against a minimalist colour palette. Place a one-of-a-kind, wrought-iron antique chair in front of a stark white wall, hang a mirror with an ornate brass frame in a simply styled, neutral living area, or lay an extravagant candelabra atop a table dressed in fuss-free stripes.

“Unique pieces take the lead against a neutral colour palette in The New Med. Lend a stately touch to your bed with a canopy and valance, while classic stripes nod to the laidback luxury of a European summer idyll.”

Elle Lovelock, Home Beautiful editor-in-chief

2. Draw the line

Stripes spell summer, especially a European summer, so channel a little New-Med glamour and inject stylish stripes into your scheme. Soft furnishings, bedlinen and napery are tried-and-true teammates for stripes, but don’t be afraid to embrace them on a larger scale. Striped wallpaper will turn heads in a bathroom, or add an old-world artwork and an elaborate, antique stool to upscale your utilitarian space with a lovely interpretation of the trend.

“Don’t be afraid to go for bold contrast in colours and textures. Mix crisp white with aged character pieces and add pops of vibrant colour in yellow, red or blue.”

Fiona Gould, Interiors stylist

Sophisticated stripes and a burst of sunny yellow tell a story of a stroll along the French Riviera

3. Delight in the details

The New Med incorporates an air of formality, too, in its penchant for more structured decorating features such as cornice boards, pleats and ruffles. Channel the opulence of a Venetian villa with a canopied bed and jewel-toned Murano glass on your bedside table. Hang or lean an opulent antique mirror as a unique work of art, while check-pattern tiles and aged rattan and wicker accents lend a stately sense of times gone by to your contemporary spaces.

4. Celebrate contrast

Here’s your free pass to unleash your inner rebel on your interiors, with mismatched vintage furniture and sparks of colour and contrast. In the living area, “vintage rattan armchairs offer a sculptural pop against a new, crisp white linen sofa”, says Fiona. “Or try a vintage Murano glass vase on a modern, curved side table – both are striking statement pieces but when combining old and new, it feels balanced.” Glam up your office by displaying minimalist artworks and vases atop pieces with antique soul, such as a Spanish monastery table. “It’s all about a bold contrast,” sums up Fiona.

The post How to bring Mediterranean style into your home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

While there’s no such thing as a magic fix in the garden, knowing the tricks of the trade will help you create a garden that looks beautiful, stays healthy and makes you feel happy every time you step outside or look out the window. And, if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, you can implement all of these tips yourself.

Design secrets

• Save money by hiring someone to draw your landscape design, and then plant it yourself.
• Street view is important, but make sure you take a look at your garden from inside your house. It needs to look good from your windows.
• Choose flowers by looking at a colour wheel. Colours that are opposite each other look amazing when planted together, like red and blue.
• Take a walk through your neighbourhood and take note of plants in the area that seem to be thriving. Consider using these plants in your own garden design. It’s a trick the owner of this bucolic cottage garden in the NSW Southern Tablelands tried with amazing success.
• When selecting a feature tree, always consider the available space in the garden first. If the tree is too big you’ll be forever pruning it. If the tree is too small, it won’t have the impact you desire.
• Avoid white pebbles like the plague. They might look great initially, but over time they will turn yellow, scatter and become a hassle every time you mow the lawn. They also won’t add any nutrients to the soil like an organic mulch will.

Planting tips

• Don’t plant your flower beds too narrow or close to the house. You should extend your beds out by at least one to two thirds of the height of your house.
• Don’t dig your plants too deep. The roots can suffocate and collected water can cause them to rot.
• When planting groups of the same species, plant them in odd numbers such as seven or nine. Repeat the group throughout your garden for a cohesive effect.
• Twice a year, use a fertilizer with time-releasing water-insoluble nitrogen.
• To prevent soil drying out over a hot summer, apply a 3-5cm layer of mulch to garden beds.
• If you want to try growing fresh herbs, start with hardy Mediterranean herbs such as oregano, rosemary and sage.

Lawn know-how

• Most established lawns need less fertilizer. You should water once a week, or once every five days in extreme heat.
• Don’t pick up leaves. Instead, mow over them and leave them to break down on your lawn. It will help keep weeds down.
• Don’t pick up the grass clippings. They’ll be great food for earthworms and microbes that will help keep your lawn healthy.
• Want a lawn that stays green and hydrated? Forget sprinklers. Lay a good quality turf suitable for your climate and conditions but include an irrigation plan in your landscaping design. It was a feature the owners of this Gold Coast garden opted for when updating their backyard and they worked with Reece Irrigation and Pools to map every inch of the lawn.
• If you want a picture perfect lawn without lifting a finger, an automower (aka a robotic lawn mower) is a worthwhile investment. The idea is to run it daily so that your grass stays neat and tidy all year round.

Maintenance

• Giving your garden extra TLC in autumn by planting, weeding and fertilising will create a glorious, springtime display
• Healthy soil equals a healthy garden. Keep yours nourished for free by turning food waste into a compost heap.
• If you must use a leaf blower, be sure to blow with the wind, rather than against it and always plan out how you’re going to cover each area before you begin so that you don’t have to go over the same area twice.

The post 20 things your landscaper won’t tell you appeared first on Home Beautiful.

01

The Grower’s Cottage

Lower Mangrove, NSW

This fully restored original farmer’s cottage sits on 25 acres of land in Dharug National Park, north of Sydney. It’s fully equipped and features a woodfired pizza oven and fire pit (hello, toasted marshmallows) but if you don’t feel like cooking, the famous 1827 sandstone pub at Wiseman’s Ferry is not far away.

When you’re not eating, de-stress in the outdoor stone bath. The Grower’s Cottage is also nestled among fruit and veggie gardens, which you’re free to forage in!

Stay Here

02

The Trig Studio

Mount Arthur, TAS

This architect-designed one-bedroom eco studio in Northern Tasmania, on 50 acres of bush and farmland, boasts views of both the mountains and sea. Fully sustainable, the cabin is powered by hydro and solar electricity so you can feel totally smug about your non-existent eco footprint while you’re on holiday.

While only 20 minutes from dining destination Launceston, The Trig offers an organic brekkie, Tasmanian wines, prepacked meals and access to the veggie garden. You’ll also enjoy French flax linen, a decent library and close proximity to some wonderful bushwalks.

Stay Here

03

Alkira Eco-Glamping Retreat

Emerald, VIC

This cute straw-bale yurt is consistently awarded as one of the most unique places to stay in Australia, and for good reason. Located on a stunning 40-acre property in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges in Victoria, it’s considered ‘glamping’ but Alkira has been designed to stay warm in winter and cool in summer, so you’ll be more than comfortable.

The interiors are rustic and cosy, with the expertly curated linens and finishes sourced from around Australia. The yurt has a sweet outdoor kitchen; you can watch nearby wildlife and farm animals (horses, alpacas, cows, ducks, geese) while you stir your porridge.

Stay Here

04

Cowboy’s Cabin on Wollombi Brook

Hunter Valley, NSW

This one-bedroom slab-timber cabin on the Wollombi Brook overlooks paddocks of grazing cattle and a working farm. Best of all, it’s close to the Hunter Valley vineyards, where you can pick up a bottle of pinot noir to enjoy by the slow-combustion wood fire.

There’s nothing ‘tiny’ about this cottage, by the way, since it boasts an oversized bathroom and large open-plan kitchen. The mod cons aren’t neglected either, with a smart TV offering Netflix, Stan, Disney and Amazon Prime, as well as WIFI and 4G service. Working holiday, anyone?

Stay Here

05

Bayside Glamping’s Tiny House

Marion Bay, SA

This light and bright cabin is entirely off the grid, running on solar power and rainwater. Made with love by a dad-and-daughter duo, Tiny House is fitted out with many reclaimed materials. A comfy loft bed offers mesmerising panoramic views of Marion Bay, while you might spot a kangaroo or emu from the breakfast bar.

It is so romantic that several people have become engaged at Tiny House. While incredibly secluded, it’s minutes from Marion Bay village, which is pretty basic but does feature a fabulous pub that does a roaring trade.

Stay Here

06

Bruny Island Hideaway

Alonnah, TAS

Bruny Island in Tassie is Australia’s southernmost destination, so you’ll feel totally off the beaten path here. In fact, it’s recommended that you drive a 4WD to get to Bruny Island Hideaway. Set among 99 acres of conservation forest, expect nothing but peace and star-filled nights from this secluded off-grid tiny house.

With minimalist, Scandi-style interiors, Bruny Island Hideaway is seriously Zen. The architectural design features Baltic pine that’s soft underfoot, a fireplace and an outdoor bath – talk about romance on steroids.

Stay Here

07

Millars by the Lake

Quinninup, WA

The remote Western Australian town of Quinninup in the Margaret River Region is known for its sublime natural beauty, physically challenging walking tracks and stunning waterfalls. After a day of rugged exploration, find rest at Millars by the Lake which is a five-minute walk away from Karri Lake.

The 75-year-old cottage has an outdoor bath (perfect for late-night star-gazing) and is located on a heritage-listed mill settlement. Being so remote, however, means you’ll need to bring your own food and drink supplies for the duration of your stay.

Stay Here

08

Wander in the Scenic Rim

Wyaralong, QLD

If you’re looking for a cabin with a view, rather than simply a cabin in the woods, then Wander in the Scenic Rim is the spot for you. Each ‘WanderPod’ enjoys mountain views, a kitchenette (complete with a fridge and stovetop) and a private bathroom with shower.

It’s also a short drive away from popular local attractions, including Thunderbird Park and Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk.

Stay Here

09

Kumbogie Cabin

Daruka, NSW

Want the ultimate off-grid experience? Look no further than eco-friendly Kumbogie Cabin, which operates off solar-power and battery. Here you’re surrounded by a working sheep farm and 900 metres away from the closest dwelling.

Five-star reviews note the abundance of wildlife, swinging chairs on the verandah, and the roaring fireplace.

Stay Here

10

Slow Beam

West Hobart, TAS

A cabin in the woods, but make it bougie. This designer cabin – surrounded by rugged bush – is totally unassuming from the outside. But step in the door and you’re met with a jaw-dropping interior by Hearth Studio. The walls are adorned with design and artworks by Grant Featherston, Esther Stewart, Ebony Truscott and more.

The best part? Luxe Le Labo products are available for guests to use in the bathroom, so you can truly soak in style while soaking up the incredible views.

Stay Here

The post 10 romantic cabin getaways that are perfect for a weekend escape appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Most importantly, nooks should be inviting and make you want to curl up in them and eat, read, think, write… or whatever you want to do, really. To create a nook, choose a space and how you’d like to use it. Then, introduce textures and touchable materials like linen, velvet, wood and basket weaves. It’s all about layering. If you get your nook right, you’ll never want to leave it. From the perfect breakfast nook to a cosy book nook, Home Beautiful stylist Lucy Gough shows how it’s done…

Escape nook

We’re big proponents of carving out time for a relaxing cup of tea or coffee among the chaos of daily life. A designated nook in your living area creates a destination to build such a ritual around. All you need is a comfortable chair and a pleasing view in a spot that looks like part of the action but is actually a retreat you can escape to any time of day.

Shop The Look

‘Nest’ swivel chair in Het Cement

$1999, Oz Design

Shop Now

Bedroom nook

What could be better than creating a snug sanctuary in your bedroom, then enjoying the luxury of breakfast in bed? A lush bedhead, an array of pillows and cushions and beautiful bedlinen elevates an everyday bedroom into the realms of a five-star hotel. It will also help turn a small bedroom into a grand guest suite.

Shop The Look

‘Bateko’ cushion cover, rectangle

$59.50 (usually $119), Oon Home

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Shop The Look

Linen House ‘Toro’ cushion in Leaf

$59.99, Myer

Shop Now

Reading nook

Welcome to your new reading corner. Choose a comfortable armchair upholstered in a plush fabric such as velvet, cushions in the most gorgeous tones, and great lighting, and then settle in with a good book (and cup of tea) in your book nook. And the littlest readers in the family can curl up on a plump floor cushion and enjoy story time with teddy. For extra points, style an Insta-worthy bookshelf.

Shop The Look

‘Riviera’ XL Floor Cushion

$149.95, Pillow Talk

Shop Now

Shop The Look

Classic Wing Velvet Armchair

$1399, Freedom

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Breakfast nook

Create a welcoming dining space that’s made for leisurely get-togethers over great food and beverages, Gwyneth Paltrow style. Create a breakfast nook with a round table lets the conversation flow while a range of seating, from a slip-covered bench to a classic French-style chair, will have everyone sitting comfortably. A stunning artwork, contemporary wallpaper, and handpainted ceramics complete the pretty-as-a-picture setting. 

Shop The Look

‘Galaxy’ dining table in Oak

$1,199, Lounge Lovers

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Shop The Look

‘Alwyn’ rattan dining chair in Elm, set of 2

$398, One World

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Daybed nook

Create your own private hideaway at home by turning an under-utilised alcove or corner into a relaxation zone. The most important piece of furniture? A daybed that’s dressed in soft linen bedding and piled with different-sized cushions. Amp up the feeling of seclusion (and cosiness) with delicate curtains that will cocoon you in the space. Check out Kmart’s new collection for pretty styling pieces.

Shop The Look

Cristina Re teacup & saucer

$30 (usually $49.95), David Jones

Shop Now

Shop The Look

‘Clover’ mango wood side table

$219.99, Temple & Webster

Shop Now

The post Why you should be creating more nooks in your home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Energy-efficient dryers work smarter, not harder, thanks to cutting-edge technology like heat pumps and moisture sensors. By recycling hot air and adjusting drying times based on moisture levels, these dryers will ensure your laundry dries efficiently. Say goodbye to the days of over-drying or rewashing due to dampness – these dryers have your back.

But it’s not just about functionality—it’s about enhancing your lifestyle. Thanks to customizable drying programs, imagine the freedom to schedule drying cycles to fit your busy day or the peace of mind of knowing your clothes are being treated with care. Energy-efficient dryers offer convenience, efficiency, and a touch of luxury to your everyday routine.

So, whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on the go, an energy-efficient tumble dryer is not just an appliance – it’s a lifestyle upgrade that makes laundry day a breeze.

5 best energy-efficient dryers 2024

01

Samsung 8kg heat pump dryer

$1649, The Good Guys

The Samsung 8kg heat pump dryer, efficiently tackles wet loads while caring for your garments. Boasting an ample 8kg capacity, it enables you to dry more in one cycle, saving both time and energy. Its cutting-edge heat pump technology ensures superior efficiency, boasting an impressive nine-star Energy Rating for reduced energy consumption compared to conventional models. Choose from a selection of 15 specialised drying programs, including AI Dry and Cool Air, tailored to various fabric types. Plus, the reversible door offers flexible installation options too, while the sleek black finish seamlessly integrates into any laundry space.

Key features:

• 8kg drying capacity
• Heat pump technology
• 9-star Energy Rating
• 15 drying programs
• Reversible door

Also available at:

• $1101, Appliances Online

Shop now

02

LG 8kg heat pump dryer with inverter control

$1510, Appliances Online

This LG 8kg heat pump dryer, featuring inverter control, is an ideal solution for busy households seeking both efficiency and exceptional drying performance. The combination of heat pump technology and the inverter compressor motor ensures not only energy efficiency but also consistently excellent drying results. Plus, with its 14 specialised programs, catering to various fabric types such as delicates, wools, and towels, you know your favourite pieces will be well looked after. With an outstanding nine-star energy rating, it’ll help keep your energy bill low.

Key features:

• Inverter control
• Heat pump technology
• 14 specialised drying programs
• Allergy function
• ThinQ technology

Also available at:

• $1699.01, LG
• $1699, Bing Lee

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03

Haier 8kg heat pump dryer

$899, The Good Guys

Introduce the Haier 8kg heat pump dryer to your home. This sleek white dryer efficiently handles up to 8kg of laundry, perfect for medium-sized households. With its impressive eight-star energy rating, it’s crafted for cost-effective drying, aiding in trimming your energy bills. The heat pump system circulates hot air internally, gently drying clothes sans external venting, simplifying installation. Offering 15 customised drying programmes like Air Dry, Delicate, Wool, and Baby Care, it meets all laundry demands. Plus, it features auto moisture sensing technology to prevent over-drying your clothes, too.

Key features:

• 15 drying programs
• Sensor drying technology
• Adjustable dryness levels
• Stainless steel drum

Also available at:

• $1031, Appliances Online

Shop Now

04

Bosch 9kg heat pump dryer

$1299, The Good Guys

Merging drying performance with energy efficiency, this heat pump dryer from Bosch handles up to 9kg of laundry with ease – all while boasting a seven-star energy rating. Its advanced heat pump technology delicately dries garments at lower temperatures, safeguarding fabrics and curbing energy usage. With 14 specialised drying programmes catering to various fabrics and needs, including cottons, shirts, sportswear, and delicates, alongside features like the super 40-minute mixed load programme, convenience is paramount. Finished in sleek white, equipped with an anti-vibration design for quiet operation, and featuring a capacious internal drum, this dryer simplifies all your dreaded laundry tasks. Plus, the intuitive control panel offers options for timed drying, auto drying, or selecting from different dryness levels.

Key features:

• 9kg capacity
• 14 drying Programs
• Intuitive control panel
• Drying sensor technology

Shop Now

05

Whirlpool 9kg Heat Pump Dryer WFHPM22

$1151, Appliances Online

The Whirlpool 9kg heat pump dryer includes state-of-the-art features to elevate your routine. Incorporating 6th SENSE technology, FreshCare+, Woolmark Blue certification, and 3D Dry Technology, this dryer guarantees optimum performance and garment care. With an impressive eight-star energy efficiency rating, it achieves flawless results in less time, offering flexibility through seven program options accessible via the user-friendly display panel.

Key features:

• Automatically adjusts cycle programs and times
• Utilises intelligent temperature
• Guarantees gentle drying performance
• 8-star Energy Efficiency rating

Shop Now

What are the benefits of using energy-efficient dryers?

Energy-efficient dryers offer substantial benefits, including reduced energy consumption, lower utility bills, and minimised environmental impact. Their advanced technology, such as heat pumps and moisture sensors, ensures optimal efficiency by recycling hot air and adjusting drying times. Additionally, they prevent over-drying, preserving fabric quality and extending the lifespan of clothes. Overall, energy-efficient dryers provide a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for laundry care.

What are energy-efficient dryers?

Energy-efficient dryers are appliances designed to minimise energy consumption during the drying process. Unlike traditional dryers, which rely solely on heat to evaporate moisture from clothes, energy-efficient models utilise advanced technologies such as heat pumps and moisture sensors. These features optimise drying efficiency by recycling hot air and adjusting drying times based on moisture levels. As a result, energy-efficient dryers reduce energy usage and lower utility bills.

The post Invest in these top energy-efficient dryers that’ll help you save on your utility bills appeared first on Home Beautiful.

He might be no Steph and Gian, but the host’s renovating experience has surely come in handy for his hosting duties on Channel 7 reality series Dream Home.

His co-stars include Luxe Listing’s Simon Cohen, Selling in the City’s Rosie Morley and Three Birds Renovations’ Lana Taylor, who are judges on the show.

Take a tour of Dr Chris Brown’s former contemporary coastal home below.

Kitchen, living and dining area

As you enter Dr Chris Brown’s former home through an impressive front door, you enter the main living areas of the home. In keeping with the easy-breezy vibe of Bondi and the iconic coastal walk down the road, the kitchen, living and dining space is open-plan and bright.

The two-storey renovation was designed and constructed under the experienced eye of Peter Dunkley to maximise natural light. The American Oak floors and custom cabinetry continue the light, barefoot aesthetic. It has high-end kitchen appliances (including a wine fridge), generous storage and custom cabinetry and finishes. A standout feature is the incredible Aren Bianco sawn-finished limestone island bench.

Staircase and corridors

All of the main living areas are downstairs, while steps lead to three bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs. Light streams in from the skylights above. Located in a very desirable street within a stone’s throw of Bondi Beach, the home boasts panoramic ocean views from North Bondi, all the way south to Maroubra. State-of-the-art features include a Sonos sound system, C-Bus home control, closed circuit security, fully automated timber blinds in the master bedroom and (essential in this location) a lock-up garage.

Bedrooms

Upstairs there’s a main bedroom with panoramic views, along with two other bedrooms. All are designed in a subtle coastal style with beachy blues and tactile elements. The view from the main bedroom is breathtaking, taking in the ocean from all angles.

The bathrooms are tastefully designed, with neutral tiles, wooden details and plenty of storage.

The post Inside Dream Home host Dr Chris Brown’s former beachy Bondi pad appeared first on Home Beautiful.

When gardening indoors it’s important to take into consideration the following points.

1. Best lighting for plants

Do I have the right light? Different pot plants thrive in different light, so make sure you tailor your indoor garden to the right lighting needs. Make sure you position pot plants around the home according to their necessary light levels and temperatures. Some plants are fine in the bathroom, while others thrive in colder temperatures, whereas some need light.

2. Pet-safe plants

Some plants are poisonous to animals (such as peace lilies) – so check these details about your chosen plants before bringing them into the home.

3. Know what your plant needs

A lot of plants are seasonal, so your green thumb work needs to extend into the off-season. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what is required to care for your plant before you buy and if it’s too much, opt for hardier varieties and low maintenance plants.

4. How much water to give your plants

Do not over-water your plants. While you think you might be doing them a favour, some pot plants only require a small amount of water and too much can drown them. Keep soil moist with regular but light watering. Keep a tray to catch any excess water below to avoid over-watering them or, better still, cut the guesswork altogether and pop in a sensor probe to get notified when your plants need water!

Try this starter pack from Willow to get you on the right path.

5. How to treat bugs on your plant

Keep an eye out for bugs. If you notice any bugs on your plants, remove them. Get rid of any dead leaves to prevent disease. Be aware of the types of diseases your indoor plants can catch. For example, indoor palms can catch mealy bugs. To avoid this, wipe down the palm leaves and spray a palm-safe insecticide.

6. Air supply for your plants

Make sure your plants have the right air supply, especially if they are kept inside. They not only need fresh air to grow but it also helps reduce disease.

7. Fertilise your indoor plant

Fertilise every one to two months depending on your plant. Always make sure you have information about when is best to feed your plant as so many indoor plants vary.

8. Repot your plants

Repot your plants every one to two years depending on how quickly they grow. This will help your plants thrive and grow.

If you want to skip the care altogether then there’s no harm in opting for an artificial version of your favourite house pant from The Plant Project.

The post How to take care of plants at home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Here, we get to the bottom of plant watering, and teach you how to take the guesswork out of the task to ensure your garden is getting just the right amount of hydration.

Soil composition 101

Soils that are sandy in texture take the least water to wet a given depth but dry out again quite quickly. 

Heavier, clay-based soils take the most water, but they also hold that water for the longest time so don’t need to be rewatered as often as sands. 

Loamy soils (an ideal mix of sand, clay, silt and organic matter) sit between the clays and the sands.

How to work out the correct amount of water for plants

Aim to apply 25–30mm each time you water. That will wet sandy soil to a depth of between 150–175mm, but only half that depth if your soil is clay based. 

To find out how long you need to run a sprinkler to deliver that amount of water, place a rain gauge, or a straight-sided jar or tin, within the range of the sprinkler. Turn the sprinkler on full and note the time. 

In exactly 15 minutes turn the sprinkler off and measure the depth of the water collected. Multiply that figure by four to get an hourly rate of delivery in millimetres.

To check on moisture penetration, wait two hours then dig down. Adjust the length of sprinkler operation in order to wet the soil to root depth.

What happens if you don’t use enough water?

Roots seek out water and if only the top few centimetres of soil are wetted, roots will rise up to the surface where they’ll be vulnerable to drying out. Thirsty plants will often look droopy (but perk back up once watered), have brown or curling leaves (not yellow leaves) and roots that are dried out. 

What happens if you use too much water?

You’ll know plants are getting too much water if the lower leaves start to turn yellow and if the plant looks sad and droopy. 

When is the best time of day to water plants?

The best time to water your plants is whenever you have the time (some water is better than no water at all), but many gardeners swear by watering in the morning. Watering in the morning has several advantages including: 

• Cooler morning temperatures reduce surface evaporation, allowing moisture to penetrate deep into the soil
• Ensures plants are hydrated as temperatures rise
• Allows any excess moisture to evaporate over the course of the day, preventing root rot

Will wetting leaves cause burns? 

Getting water on the leaves of your plants is totally harmless, so if you’ve gotten a bit carried away with the hose, don’t fret. You may have heard this myth, but you can rest assured, it’s completely false. Leaf ‘burns’ occur when a plant doesn’t have enough moisture in its leaves, making it susceptible to scorching and drying out. 

Don’t forget to mulch

Applying organic mulch to the garden is extremely important to help keep your plants hydrated throughout the hot summer months. Organic mulch (basically any kind of mulch that breaks down over time, including bark, leaves, straw, woodchips or compost)  reduces moisture loss from the soil and, over time, will break down to nourish your plants.

The post How to give your plants just the right amount of water appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Take a peek inside our favourite homes featuring natural stone fireplaces below.

01

A blissful Sydney beach house 

A beachy alfresco area complete with a stone fireplace

For the owners of this four-bedroom home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, creating a calming vibe was key to the renovation. “Our aim for the couple was to create an instant sense of tranquillity as soon as they stepped through the front gate, a place where they could relax and entertain in serene surroundings,” says interior designer Denise McIlwaine from Order & Grace. A bright and functional floor plan was paired with natural materials, including an alfresco area with a blackbutt timber deck and a stone fireplace made with ‘Random Ashlar’ stone from Eco Outdoor, for year-round outdoor relaxation.

read more

02

A beautiful 1960s beachside cottage 

A hidden gem’s stylish sandstone fireplace

The renovation journey of this 1960s beach cottage in Sydney’s Avalon was nothing short of remarkable. The dated interiors were in much need of a refresh, with its heritage features paired with modern touches for a warm and lived-in feel in line with the current era. A perfect example is the open-plan living space, where a Heat & Glo fireplace and sandstone surround sit beautifully on American oak floors, creating an old-meets-new style. “I wanted it to be sweet and whimsical with a touch of coastal,” says owner and interior stylist Sarah Parry-Okeden.

read more

03

A modern farmhouse in Toowoomba

A stately double-sided brick fireplace

A double-sided brick fireplace serves as a standout feature of this Toowoomba farmhouse, separating the formal dining room and living room with an elegant stone selection – which took careful planning! “To make sure we got the colour right, we hand-picked the stone so that we had greys as well as the earthy red tones,” says designer Angela Smith of Angela Smith Interiors. “Then we chose that beautiful big timber mantle to go with it, which was all done through a local supplier.” The raked ceiling and stone texture create an open yet inviting ambience, perfect for entertaining in this modern farmhouse.

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04

A bohemian 1970s beachside haven 

A winter living room’s stone fireplace

This 1970s coastal home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula took its style inspiration from classic English interior design, including a summer and winter living room lovingly created by interior designer Amy Spargo. “I saw really good bones and the parts of the house that could be fixed relatively inexpensively while still making a huge difference,” says Amy. Crisp white walls and eclectic fabric finds in the winter living room balance the dark stone palette of the fireplace, which gently warms during the colder months. Alternatively, the summer living room is bathed in natural light to embrace the sunny season.

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05

A modern coastal family abode 

A breathtaking cobblestone centrepiece

For couple Rea and Chris, their seaside home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches was perfect until their family started to outgrow it. “We contemplated selling and buying a bigger house elsewhere, but we’re a family of surfers and loved our location close to the beach, so the better option was to stay and extend,” says Rea. A top-to-bottom renovation included a spacious living area where the existing fireplace was replaced with a French cobblestone surround that extends to the cathedral ceiling for an eye-catching textural centrepiece. “I’m originally English, so I love having tactile stone incorporated in the house,” says Rea. “It adds a real visual warmth and touch point.”

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06

A revived farmhouse-style holiday haven 

A fossil-stone fireplace with Mediterranean flair

The gentle update of this 1980s mudbrick cottage on the Mornington Peninsula saw elegant material options reminiscent of a Mediterranean holiday house – just what the family of five who live there needed. “We wanted this home to feel warm, textural and a change from our everyday life,” says owner Leah. Within the rumpus room, solid Oregon beams are artfully painted white, while light natural fossil stone from The Marble Merchant gracefully surrounds the original hearth, creating a refreshed scheme that beautifully complements the charming mudbrick.

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07

A Vancouver home filled with classic character 

A timeless tumbled limestone hearth

Nestled at the base of the North Shore Mountains overlooking Vancouver, this majestic three-storey home is surrounded by lush greenery, providing an idyllic setting for the family of five. To evoke an old-world feel, interior designer Kelly Deck looked to historical homes from the southern United States and the French countryside. “We used them as a jumping off point for layers of warm neutrals, matt finishes, tarnished metals and textured stone/tile,” she says. The living area features French doors, flooding the space with light, while a custom tumbled limestone hearth by Adera Stone adds to the warm yet refined material palette.

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08

A contemporary log cabin on the Gold Coast 

A stacked-stone masterpiece

A fireplace is an essential feature of any cabin, and for this Gold Coast hinterland retreat, a rebuild included a stonewall fireplace paired with raked ceilings and an expansive glazed wall, making for a functional yet stylish statement. “A grand fireplace was the must-have,” says owner Ema of the stacked stone above a double-sided Cheminees Philippe wood fireplace.

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09

A stylish and soulful family abode 

A beachy stacked-stone fireplace

Originally a 1960s fibro shack, this coastal family home on the Mornington Peninsula underwent quite the transformation with a complete knock-down and rebuild. “With the vision that we had, it was too difficult to renovate,” explains owner Melanie. Now a two-storey haven, the interiors were kept natural and organic, reflecting its beachside location. The living room features a stacked stone fireplace built by a stonemason friend of the couple, alongside a white palette with prim pops of pastels.

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More fireplace ideas

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This clever cleaning hack will transform your home in just 15 minutes. It’s not an in-depth clean by any means – you’ll still need to spend some time thoroughly cleaning it at a later time. This procedure simply gets your home guest-ready, creating the appearance of order, calm and cleanliness.

Entrance

Clean any clutter and shake out the door mat. Close the doors on any messy bedrooms. Now you’re ready to go!

Kitchen

Open the window. Now grab any dirty plates and put them in the dishwasher, or fill the sink with detergent and let them soak. At least you’ll have a clean disinfectant smell. Pop any clutter in a box or basket and hide it in a cupboard. Wipe down the benchtop and take out the bin (or leave it on the back step).

Living room

Open the windows and light a scented candle, or spray some room fragrance around. Grab a basket and focus on collecting all of the stuff strewn across the floor, sofa and coffee table. Hide the basket in a cupboard in another room. Give your cleared coffee table a wipe-down with a dust cloth, then vacuum the area between the sofa and the coffee table, where your guests are most likely to sit.

Bathroom

Open the window, then pick up any clothes on the floor and stash them in the laundry hamper. Give your toilet a quick swirl with toilet cleaner, and wipe down the seat. Close the lid. Use an antiseptic spray to wipe down the vanity surface, and quickly polish the mirror with window cleaner. Pop any toiletries in your cupboard and flush the toilet before you leave.

The post How to fake-clean your home in 15 minutes appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Want to get the look in your home without a cookie-cutter result? With the help of our Hamptons decorating experts, consider this your Home Beautiful style masterclass to take you through the essential elements needed to decorate your home with Hamptons style.

Where are The Hamptons?

The Hamptons refers to a group of townships on Long Island, New York, including Montauk, Southampton and Sag Harbor which, up until the mid-to-late 19th century, were isolated farming and fishing settlements, made up of homes built with honest, quality materials chosen for their ability to withstand their rugged location.

With the arrival of train tracks into Southampton, the settlements became popular vacation spots and, with that, wealth moved in, along with gorgeous summer residences that embraced easy, coastal living and, over the years, evolved into the look we love today.

It’s a look that is made up of many elements coming together to create an interior decorating style that is crisp yet relaxed, coastal yet classic. “The appeal of the classic Hamptons style is its refined balance between sophistication, relaxation and indulgent luxury,” says interior designer and principal at Indah Island Natalee Bowen. “The way to master the look in your home is to add details from front to back that capture the eye as you walk through. A classic Hamptons home begs for applause from the moment you enter, with its high coffered ceilings, layered wainscoted walls and sweeping staircases that instantly delight the senses.”

Let’s take a look at the 10 essential elements that make up Hamptons style in the home.

1. Coffered ceilings

Coffered ceilings are perfect for a high-end luxury home. “These can be used in an entrance or any area that requires an extra layer of drama,” says Natalee. “In a classic Hamptons home the staircase should be its crowning jewel,” says Natalee. “Details like a bold newel post with carefully designed spindles – either in a Chippendale pattern or ornately carved – can be carried throughout the home, making the spaces cohesive. A black step with a white riser and a bold handrail also demands attention.”

2. Wonderful wainscoting

Introduce east-coast style with timber moulding along hallways and staircases. “Integrate detailed trims such as architraves, cornices and skirtings,” says Gallerie B Interiors director and principal designer Belinda Vanden Boom. Intrim Mouldings offer a range of inlay moulds and skirting boards designed to bring Hamptons style to your home, or try HardieGroove lining to inject a casual, coastal vibe with tongue-and-groove panelling.

“Think of wainscoting as the icing on the cake for your walls,” says Natalee. “It starts with a deep, rounded-edge dado rail that works down towards a carefully designed smaller rail – this ‘guides’ you along the wall in a square or rectangular design.

Wainscoting can be used anywhere in the home too – no matter the size of a space. “This style looks exceptional in entrances and on staircases. If you layer these intricate mouldings they can become a major design element of any wall and will masterfully blend with skirting, cornices and architraves, allowing your colour palette to pop,” says Natalee.

3. Natural textures in Hamptons decorating

Warm up plain white walls and timber floors with sisal rugs, wicker furniture, classic works of art and carefully curated homewares in signature colourways such as soft green, teal, whites and creams. “Layer, layer, layer using natural textures such as linens, jute and rattan,” says Natalee. “I always love to include a bit of rattan in every space to incorporate another layer of natural texture.”

4. A Hamptons window seat

“The key to Hamptons style interiors is a classic look with a relaxed feel,” says Belinda. Think long, lazy afternoons stretching out with the weekend paper or scrolling through your iPad. Hamptons homes are tailor-made for relaxing, making window seats a common feature. Contact your cabinetmaker to add one to your home. Ideally include storage underneath and be sure to pick an indoor/outdoor fabric for your cushion covers.

5. Hamptons-style lighting

If your home doesn’t naturally benefit from an abundance of light, create the illusion. “Add extra lighting where possible,” says Belinda. “Think wall lights in bathrooms, powder rooms, living spaces and kitchens.” Wall sconces mounted around mirrors add traditional charm.

In any interior lighting plays a key role in both the form and function of a space and can pepper your home with an extra design layer. “[Hamptons] lighting is elegant with hanging chandeliers of crystal and brass, and beautiful table lamps that bring ambience and interest to your home,” suggests Natalie.

6. Shaker-style cabinetry

Whether you’re looking at the kitchen, bathroom or bedroom, classic cabinetry serves as an essential design inclusion. “Hamptons style interiors can be modern yet classic and timeless,” explains Belinda. “Include detailed Shaker-style cabinetry with beautiful handles.”

“Gone are the days of hiding the kitchen – a Hamptons home is about entertaining and showing off!” says Natalee. “The island bench is always the centre of attention, embracing lengths of soft-toned Carrara marble. A generous oven, with sizing of no less than 900cm, is a must. This becomes a wide, freestanding masterpiece that is not only for cooking but for centralising the cabinetry design. Opt for a beautiful rangehood with glass cabinetry on either side to showcase your tableware, such as glasses and china.”

7. Quality materials in a Hamptons bathroom

Hardy materials such as marble are key. “When the Hamptons were settled in the 1600s, homes were designed with long-lasting materials to withstand the elements,” says Belinda.

“When it comes to the bathroom, a bath is essential,” says Natalee. “Whether you use it or not becomes irrelevant when it commands such a luxurious presence in a space. With freestanding tapware – which is practically jewellery for a wet area – and panelling or shelving, wow moments will abound. Try adding a statement mirror, wall sconces and pendants. Choose a double basin with refined front panelling – it needs to be more than just shaker style. Finally, marble flooring with a statement border or a checkerboard detail is what it’s all about.”

8. Hamptons furniture

Furniture is where you can really have some fun bringing your Hamptons dream home to life on a personal scale. “I think people are over jumping from one style to the next and the Hamptons look is a true classic for all ages,” says Natalee.

“With styling, we focus on a blue-and-white palette, but include floral and oak tones for depth, which translates to a more traditional style,” says Natalee. “Blue linen sofas in a roll-arm style are both comfortable and charming and Chesterfield chairs with deep button backs are another great option. An oak coffee table grounds the space and contrasting side tables bring personality into the room.”

9. Hamptons outdoor furniture

Create a seamless flow between indoors and out by keeping the design and colour choices consistent – your outdoor furniture should be the same style and colours as your interior. Wicker settings with white, blue or grey cushions are a classic option. “As you enter the outdoor area, it should be an experience – opening up to flowering arbours, an entertaining area for alfresco get-togethers, and sun loungers for relaxing by the pool,” says Natalee.

“Outdoor spaces are as equally important as indoor design as they fully encapsulate your lifestyle. The pleasures of hosting your loved ones and swanning around the pool are sure to be an entertainer’s dream come true.”

10. An elegant Hamptons exterior

The kerb appeal is just as important as your Hamptons-style interior scheme. Bring a sense of grandeur to porches and verandahs with architectural features such as gables, columns and fretwork.

“Homes in the Hamptons tend to have weatherboard cladding or shingles with symmetrical small-paned windows,” says interior designer Diane Bergeron. Opting for the right cladding is a sure-fire way to achieve a chic home inside and out. “You can’t have a Hamptons home without shadow lines,” explains Natalee. “In the US, these are created by shingles, which bleach in the sun to whites and light grey.” In Australia, an authentic look can be achieved with Scyon Linea Weatherboard. “It gives the look while also standing up to the harsh climate,” adds Natalee, the product’s ambassador.

Once you have tended to the exterior of your home, turn your attention to the garden. A manicured lawn, tidy hedges and planter boxes filled with lush hydrangeas are the key features. “No Hamptons home is complete without greenery on the exterior,” says Natalee. “Go for magnolias, star jasmine and, if you have the time to watch it grow, wisteria.”

NEED MORE HAMPTONS INSPIRATION?

Try these:

• How to create a Hamptons-style garden
• What makes USA and Australian Hamptons-style homes different?
• 10 easy ways to Hamptons style
• The new Hamptons: how to do Hamptons style with colour
• The best Hamptons style butler’s pantries on Pinterest
• 12 classic Hamptons-style kitchens

The post 10 essential elements to Hamptons-style interiors appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Fortunately, you’ve probably got all of the ingredients required to make a powerful grout cleaner sitting in your kitchen and laundry cupboards.

Here we run through 3 grout cleaning methods that will have your bathroom, tiled floors and splash backs looking good as new.

1. Napisan

Professional cleaner Rebekka Ladner aka the Queen of Clean, has revealed her secret hack for cleaning grout on tiled floors – and it’s caused a stir on social media. She used Vanish Napisan Gold Pro Stain Removal Powder to clean her tiled floors.

“I’ve done the whole baking soda/vinegar … and that’s way too time-consuming with very little result,” she said. “I’ve used long life grout cleaner too. Some people swear by it [but] I’m not a fan and the smell is horrendous,” she added. “Plus long life grout cleaner is $10 a bottle. It ends up costing a fair bit.”

She adds two scoops of Napisan to a bucket of water and spreads it over the tiles before scrubbing with a stiff broom. Then she rinses the tiles and mops again, this time with hot water and methylated spirits.

The dirty ‘before’ and sparkling clean ‘after’ photos speak for themselves.

Note: Napisan is an eye and skin irritant. Be sure to wear protective clothing and rubber gloves when using and avoid direct contact of powder with skin or eyes. 

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide has so many uses, and it’s especially good at brightening discoloured grout. Unlike vinegar, which can corrode the grout over time, hydrogen peroxide is a gentle disinfectant that is non-toxic – when used correctly.

To clean grout, simply pour undiluted hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle. Spray all over grout and allow to sit for 15-20 minutes.

Hydrogen peroxide can irritate eyes, skin and the respiratory system, so only use it in a well-ventilated space and wear gloves and protective goggles.

Once the time has passed, scrub the grout with a grout brush or non-scratch scour sponge. Rinse clean.

3. Lemon and baking soda

If finding an all-natural way to clean grout is your top priority, try making lemonade! Fresh lemon juice has been used as a super stain-fighting solution for centuries. To clean up grimy grout, simply combine lemon juice with baking soda to create a paste. Use a stiff brush to apply the paste to the grout. Allow the solution to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing well.

The reason this works is because lemons are rich in citric acid, which is a natural bleach. The bleaching effect is accelerated by sunlight, so this trick works especially in bathrooms with plenty of natural light.

Don’t have lemons handy? Simply swap out the lemon juice for white vinegar.

Grout cleaning essentials

01

Simply No Mould spray

$9.95, Flora & Fauna

This mould spray contains zero chlorine bleach and instead harnesses the power of hydrogen peroxide to get mouldy grout light and bright again. Free from artificial fragrances, parabens and mineral oils. Made in Australia.

Key features:

• Hydrogen peroxide-based formula
• Doesn’t leave behind harmful residue
• Safely kills mould on tiles, grout and benchtops

Shop Now

02

Grout brush

$17.95, Koh

You can use all the fancy grout-cleaning sprays you want, but to really banish tough stains, a good grout brush is essential. Koh’s grout brush is ergonomically-designed and the firm bristles get into every nook and cranny.

Key features:

• Made from recycled plastics
• Ergonomic design
• Versatile – can also be used to clean window sills, door runners and fridge seals

Shop Now

03

White King mould and soap scum remover in lemon

$6, Big W

Struggling to get rid of black mould stains? Open the windows, open the doors and turn on the exhaust fan because this stuff means business. Spray it on the worst mould stains and it will brighten them up within minutes. Take care to wear protective clothing, follow safety instructions and use sparingly.

Key features:

• Chlorine bleach-based formula that removes black mould stains in 3-5 minutes
• Also removes soap scum and kills 99.9% of germs
• Australian made

Shop Now

04

Mr Siga grout scrub brush with long handle

$27.99, Amazon

Live in a home with tiled floors? Don’t break your back scrubbing on your hands and knees; invest in a long-handled grout brush. The stiff bristles really work grime and dirt out of the grout to reveal sparkling floors. This grout brush has a swivel head and an adjustible pole, so you can use it to clean grout in confined spaces like in the shower.

Key features:

• Durable construction with sturdy, stainless steel adjustable pole
• V-shaped bristles designed to scrub grout and hard-to-reach crevices
• 180 degree maneuverable head

Shop Now

The post 3 easy ways to clean and brighten tile grout appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“Timber floors are versatile and offer natural warmth and beauty, making them a great choice for almost every room,” says Carpet Court ambassador and interior designer, Darren Palmer. With a limitless array of colours, grains and finishes to choose from, this hardworking surface makes a style statement all on its own.

Know your floors

Not all timber flooring is created equal. Solid planks are just that and come in raw, unfinished condition. Installation means possible acclimatising, fixing to a subfloor or joists, sanding and finishing. They are unbeatable for longevity.

“Plenty of solid timber floors more than 100 years old still serve the purpose they were put down for,” says managing director Bill Durkowyak of Sydney Flooring 1959.

On the other hand, engineered floorboards have a timber face on a multi-plywood base and come pre-finished, such as the engineered oak featured in this kitchen by Blakes London. They are quick to install, with no sanding, staining or sealing required. Some products are compatible with underfloor heating and the stability of the base also allows for wider board widths.

The timber flooring grading system

The uniformity of colour and grain of wooden floors depends on the grade of timber. With minimal natural detail on show, Select Grade is the most expensive option – the French oak boards in this kitchen/dining area show how sharp it can look – while Feature Grade puts any knots and grains, even insect trails, on show. Standard Grade sits in between, with a moderate level of features to admire.

“Some people like the more contemporary, uniform look of Select,” says Bill Durkowyak of Sydney Flooring 1959. “Others like it natural – the warts and all that you get with Feature Grade.”

Recycled timber floorboards – a timeless favourite

Recycled timber boards are having a resurgence in popularity, while parquetry flooring in a herringbone pattern (such as this stained engineered oak, left) can adapt to all schemes. “Dark timber floors can look fantastic – if you have white cabinetry and walls, the contrast is a feature in itself,” says interior architect Sally Rhys-Jones. Brushbox hardwood is a case in point. “The Scandinavian trend is still coming through,” says Anne Plumb of Royal Oak Floors. “Greys, ash tones and whites are very popular.” Oregon pine is a perfect timber for this trend. “Some of the colours and finishes available with engineered boards would be hard to achieve with a solid timber floor,” said Anne Plumb.

Types of timber flooring

1. Blackbutt

This hardy timber has a straight-running grain with pale colouring, making it ideal to stain.

2. Ironbark

A coarse texture and rich colours ranging from grey to red lend a refined, classical air.

3. Jarrah

A slow-growing hardwood, it’s known for its rich red hues and distinct grain features – just right for heritage or Federation styles.

4. Oak

From our own Tasmanian variety to American and French options, oak has creamy light-brown notes, growth rings and a delicate grain. It’s superb in a Scandinavian scheme, especially smoked limed oak. Oak has creamy light-brown notes, growth rings and a delicate grain. It’s superb in a Scandinavian scheme, especially smoked limed oak.

5. Spotted Gum

Visual variety is the key here, with colours ranging from sandy to chocolate brown, with pink and olive undertones to boot.

How to choose environmentally friendly timber flooring

Carbon trapping, recyclable, sustainable – timber stars in environmental sensitivity, but the source is important. To be sure your timber hasn’t been illegally harvested, “look for either FSC [Forest Stewardship Council] or PEFC [Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification] certified timbers,” says national marketing manager Michelle Kelly of Porta. Most Australian species are certified, with the benefit of supporting local jobs and a lower carbon footprint with transport.

What makes a timber a “hardwood”?

‘Hardwood’ is not a timber’s ‘hardness’ but its biological make-up. Most hardwoods are denser and stronger than softwoods, but not always. If in doubt, look for the Janka rating, an impact test carried out on wood species to largely determine whether it is suitable for timber flooring. “The higher the number, the greater the hardness,” says Michelle. Species such as ironbark (14.0) and spotted gum (11.0) score highly – at the other end of the scale, cypress pine, American oak and European oak score 6.1, 6.0 and 6.0 respectively.

“Have the installer pre-stain some timber samples and see how each appears in different light all around the house,” says Sally-Rhys-Jones.

The post Buyer’s guide to timber flooring appeared first on Home Beautiful.

You can top them with assorted berries or a sprinkling of hundreds and thousands and they’ll never know!

The post Kids’ chocolate cupcakes with hidden vegetables appeared first on Home Beautiful.