“I think a garden makes a home,” says Margot. “My father was a landscape contractor in Canberra and I had always grown up with a big garden. When I moved here, it was so much hotter than Canberra and the garden was small, with narrow beds and lots of concrete edges and paths. We wanted to establish a green haven around the house that would be an escape from the hot, dry paddocks.”

Designing a cottage garden in Australia

Over the years, various landscape architects and designers, including Michael Bligh from Michael Bligh & Associates and Lisa Walmsley from Dog Trap Design, helped the couple come up with a functional layout that would allow for the practicalities of driveways and parking, without obstructing the beautiful surrounding views of the hillsides.
A pathway edged with buxus, prunus and teucrium was created, leading to the front verandah and also a pergola Chris built. Big beds of anemone, catmint, love-in-a-mist, roses, salvia, sedum and self-seeded valerian soften and cool the home.

Her dad (now 92), has been a constant source of inspiration – and supplies. In the early days of her marriage, Margot would help in his landscaping business over summer. “Instead of getting paid, I would put in a big order for plants, which suited us well,” she says. Many of the trees and hedges came from this arrangement, while other plants have been “begged, borrowed and stolen” from people’s gardens, including a lilac hedge. “It was planted from suckers from my grandmother’s garden that my mother then had in her garden. It flowers around my birthday and our wedding anniversary, which is lovely; I also carried lilac in my wedding bouquet.”

These days, Margot is busy running her homewares store, Merchant Campbell, in Yass. But whenever she has the chance, she’s out there deadheading, pottering and weeding, basking in the bird call of blackbirds, fairy-wrens, grey shrike-thrush and sparrows, and the “fantastic racket” of the frogs at night.

“As a child, visiting my great-aunts and grandmothers, we would always go for a walk around the garden”

Margot

How to structure a cottage garden

The rambling garden is divided into zones by hedges, including feijoa, formal box, lilac, May bush and a tough, tall bay hedge. There’s a veggie patch full of asparagus, herbs, rhubarb, shallots, spinach and strawberries, plus a fruit orchard and chook yard as well as an entertaining zone with a fire pit, gazebo, lounge setting and pool.
The cottage itself is decorated with wisteria which grows along the verandah’s edge and bursts into bloom seasonally. A natural dirt path tracks its way through the jungle that is currently full of colourful flowers that bask in the sun in pretty pink, happy yellow and fresh white.

“It’s not a grand garden – it’s a rambly country garden, a shelter and an oasis”

Margot

Low maintenance plants

The plants in this garden, such as roses, were chosen for their ability to withstand the south-west slopes’ scorching summers and frosty winters. “The whole theme is rinse and repeat,” explains Margot of her approach to gardening. “If it works well, you’ll see it again elsewhere. I don’t have time for mollycoddling; I try to teach things to have deep roots and cope with the calcium-dense bore water.”

“You can look from the garden to the hills around and never feel like you’re anywhere but on the south-west slopes of New South Wales; you’re very much in country”

Margot

Cottage garden planting palettes and flowers

Acanthus

Texture and height

Acanthus spikes, also known as bear’s breeches, have large lobed leaves and provide textural interest in the garden.

Pollinators

Bees and butterflies

The couple’s flower garden is popular with a host of different types of butterflies that flit between the flowering plants. They are natural pollinators.

Red roses

Beautiful and sweet smelling

A red-flowering rose is a highlight and stands out against the bright foliage.

Pink roses

Beautiful and sweet smelling

Delicate pink roses bloom among the verdant greenery, adding a soft touch.

White daisies

Wisps of whimsy

White daisies stand to sharp attention in the garden in front of the verandah.

Artichoke flowers

Edible plants

Rather than being eaten, the artichoke plants have been left to go to flower.

Guineafowl

Natural insect controllers

Six resident guineafowl help to eradicate insects, and also add character and a sense of fun to the couple’s garden.

Pink and purple flowers

Colourful meadows

A collection of flowers grow together and create a meadow-like effect.

The post An English-style cottage garden in rural Australia appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

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

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

Meeting Dan and Dani on The Block 2012

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

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

Returning to The Block: All Stars in 2013

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

The Block Dan and Dani: After the show

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

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

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

Foreboy Dan joins The Block in 2014

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

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

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

Are Dani and Dan still together?

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

Dan and Dani The Block 2024

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

Do Dan and Dani have a baby?

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

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

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

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

The post Will Dan Reilly be returning as foreman for The Block 2025? appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Drawn to its 280-degree ocean and treetop panoramas, the vivacious couple secured the 70s fixer-upper in 2019 for $1.7 million. It’s been their biggest renovation project since starring on The Block in 2019 and again 2021, when they took home almost $745,000 in prize money as that season’s exuberant winners.

The auction result of this glamorous three-storey, five-bedroom beachside retreat may surpass the recent sale of a nearby Newport home that fetched $3.93 million. The median price for a 5-bedroom house in Newport is $3.3 mil, according to Domain.

“This home has been a true labour of love,” the couple told Homes To Love. “We poured our hearts into reimagining every space, creating a home that is both beautiful and functional — a place to relax, entertain, soak up the incredible ocean views… and to call home.”

Mitch and Mark’s home: the details

Since it’s a fully curated turnkey property, replete with furniture and décor, the lucky buyer can simply move in with their clothes and possibly a CoolCabana for those heady beach days.

The street level comprises open-plan living, kitchen and dining that expands onto a dreamy wraparound deck and barbecue zone, plus a spacious butler’s pantry with a cellar. Between the marble-topped dining table and island bench, Mitch and Mark can easily cook for a dozen people.    

“It’s all been designed around this sweeping view of the ocean, and the outdoor terrace,” Mark said on Instagram. “We spend a lot of time entertaining out here.”

The middle floor features three bedrooms, a laundry and a rock-walled workshop and storeroom. Upping the ante is a main bedroom suite with a glamorous walk-in robe featuring a marble-clad island and a palatial ensuite bathroom sporting a double shower and freestanding bath fit for royalty.    

For buyers keen on multigenerational living or Airbnb-ing their property, there’s a self-contained guest apartment with a kitchen, living room, fireplace, bathroom, deck and even a laundry.

Every level enjoys twinkling ocean views, while a sprawling terraced garden by Landscapes by Linton unfurls below the house — doubling as a shortcut to the beach. Determined to bed down the landscaping early so they could enjoy the fruits of their labour, Mitch and Mark helped the gardeners plant and manicure the lush backyard. Mitch even transplanted cuttings from his father’s garden.

We can’t wait to see TV’s most glamorous grandads pop the champagne once again.  

The post Mitch and Mark from The Block are selling their glamorous home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Before and after: Chante Mer house

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The renovation process

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The kitchen

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

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

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

The bathrooms

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From turning your first white load pink, to shrinking a beloved sweater, mistakes are just part of the process. And then, just when you think you’ve got the hang of this whole laundry thing – new products, trends and viral cleaning hacks challenge everything you know, and you’re back to square one.

However, doing your laundry isn’t as scary as we make it out to be. Whether you’re tackling your very first load, or are simply looking to refine your routine, we’ve curated a step-by-step guide on how to do laundry like a pro, complete with extra tips, tricks and product recommendations from the editors at Home Beautiful.

“My top laundry tip? Teach everyone else in your household how to do laundry”

– Julia Fairley, Senior Copy Editor

Before you start

Check care labels: We’ve all been guilty of ignoring the care label; however, it’s the most important step to making sure your clothes have longevity and the care they deserve. Common fabrics like cotton, synthetic and wool all have their own specific care requirements to prevent damage.

Care label instructions on clothing can feature symbols or words. The symbols can be broken down into washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and professional care. For a detailed breakdown of these symbols, you can refer to the ACCC website.

Step 1: make sure you have your laundry essentials

Having the right tools can make a world of difference. Other than the obvious washing machine, here are all the products you’ll need to get started:

Laundry detergent:

Skip to step 3 to see what laundry detergent is best for you.

Previous

Ultimate washing powder, OMO

$40

SHOP NOW

Advanced clean laundry liquid, Cold Power

$24

SHOP NOW

Laundry detergent sheets, Restor

$14

SHOP NOW

Next

Dryer balls:

Previous

Wool dryer balls, Handy Laundry

$26.50

SHOP NOW

Wool dryer balls, Smart Sheep

$55.55

SHOP NOW

Wool dryer balls, OHOCO

$30.92

SHOP NOW

Next

Stain remover:

Previous

Super power stain remover spray, Sard

$8

SHOW NOW

Napisan Gold Pro white stain remover, Vanish

$36

SHOP NOW

Fabric stain lift, White King

$5

SHOP NOW

Next

Lint roller:

Previous

Pet hair lint roller, Scotch-Brite

$8.50

SHOP NOW

Lint roller set, Bamada

$19.54

SHOP NOW

Rechargeable lint remover, Magictec

$29.99

SHOP NOW

Next

Drying racks and clothespins:

Previous

Heavy-duty drying rack, Songmics

$99.99

SHOP NOW

Hanging drying rack, Brabantia

$91.99

SHOP NOW

Two-tier tripod chrome steel drying rack, Olola Living

$99.99

SHOP NOW

Next

Should you use fabric softener?

The purpose of fabric softener is simple: to soften your clothes. Fabric softener has been widely debated for years on its performance. Ultimately, fabric softener is a non-essential item that can even have negative effects on your clothes and your washing machine. It has been known to reduce the effectiveness of absorption overtime and can even cause white clothing to appear yellow. Additionally, build-up in washing machines can lead to maintenance issues.

Step 2: sort your laundry

You may have heard in the past to sort your laundry into colours and whites to prevent bleeding and dye transfer, but you should also sort your laundry by fabric. Always check the care label before washing your clothing. By doing this, you will be able to organise your clothing based on its washing methods, including water temperature, washing cycle and drying.

If you have a blended fabric (for example, 80% cotton and 20% polyester), it is best to follow the instructions for the most delicate material in the mix. For example, if your clothing contains wool or silk, its best to take extra care and follow the care instructions as per these delicate materials.

Social Media Content Producer Emily Murray says she swears by “investing in a good laundry basket system! I’ve got one for each of our rooms that I divide all our clothes into! And they’re collapsible so they save space.”

Step 3: choose the right detergent

The right laundry detergent makes a huge difference to how your clothes look and feel. Avoid harsh detergents on softer materials like wool and silk. Stronger detergents work best on linen and cotton. Polyester (a synthetic), tends to trap stains easier – which is why a heavy-duty detergent is a better choice. Enzyme-based formulas are particularly effective for breaking down oil-based stains on polyester and other synthetic fabrics.

Choosing what type of detergent also comes down to personal preference.

Liquid detergent: Suitable for all washing machines. Laundry detergent can dissolve easily in hot and cold water, which also means is doesn’t create as much residue or build-up on clothing or in the machine. Its formula also makes it effective in pre-treating stains.

Powder: The granular texture of a powder detergent is effective for tackling heavy stains, particularly natural stains like mud and grass. However, powder detergent can leave residue if used in cold water (or if you use too much). To prevent this, it is recommended to pre-dissolve the detergent in warm water before adding to the load.

Pods: Laundry pods are convenient and easy to use, taking the hassle out of measuring your liquid or powder detergent. Pods are best for standard, everyday loads. However, if not dissolved properly they can lead to residue on your clothes. To avoid this, make sure to place them directly in the drum and not in the detergent drawer. Make sure you store pods, and all other detergents away from children.

Tip: The less laundry detergent, the better. “I reduced the amount of laundry detergent I use after I found out a lot of people use too much. It’s made a huge difference to how my washed clothes feel – as well as saving me money because I get more washes out of a bottle” – Amy Bradney-George, SEO specialist.

Eco-friendly alternatives:

For the eco-conscious, there’s a variety of eco-friendly alternatives to traditional laundry detergent. This can include plant-based detergents, laundry strips, soapberries, baking soda and more. Below are some of our top picks:

Previous

Laundry bundle, Ecostore

$44.99

SHOP NOW

Laundry sheets, Lucent Globe

$39.95

SHOP NOW

Organic soapberries, That Red House

$39.95

SHOP NOW

Next

Step 4: pre-treat stains

A general rule to remove stains is to act fast. to make sure you attack stains as quickly as possible, and check the care label as not all stain-removing techniques work for different materials.

“Bicarb soda is amazing for removing minor stains and marks from clothes, especially on clothes that you may not want to use a heavier-duty product on,” says our SEO specialist Amy Bradney-George.

Certain stains require special techniques to remove, while many can be handled with a spot treatment. If your stain is still fresh, blot any excess with a paper towel or cloth. For dried stains, you can remove any excess by gently scraping off the top layer.

Massage the stain with stain remover, or soak in a pre-treatment solution if the stain is older and won’t budge. Let your pre-treatment soak for a few minutes before washing. For specific stains, you can read this guide here.

“My Macedonian mother-in-law boils her whites on the stove, washes them, then puts the shirts IN the freezer before ironing them. No one ever looks more immaculate than her, she has always looked like Jacquie Kennedy”

– Lucy Gough, Stylist

Step 5: check pockets and remove items

A small but crucial step in your laundry process should be to check all pockets and remove any items such as coins, belts and other metal items that can cause damage to your washing machine. Taking a few seconds to check before loading your laundry can help prevent these issues.

Step 6: pick a temperature and cycle

There are various washing machine cycles to choose from, and no two washing machines are the same. It’s important to choose your wash cycle based on the construction, colour, and types of fabrics you are washing. The most commonly used cycles are:

Delicate Cycles: Delicate cycles involve low or no spin to avoid agitating the fabric. It’s best to keep the temperature of the water to cool, which can help prevent unwanted shrinkage on some items. For items that near some extra care, a mesh bag adds an extra layer of protection for your knits and delicates to avoid agitation but still thoroughly washing your pieces.

Normal Cycles: Everyday laundry items made of cotton, linen and some synthetics can handle the normal cycle, which is often a more intense wash due to the fast spin cycle.

Quick Wash: This is the fastest wash cycle – usually 30-minutes – and can be the most energy-saving options. Often, it includes a high-speed spin cycle to speed up the drying time, which is best for lightly-soiled clothing that needs more of a refresh. Due to the intense spin cycle, it’s best to avoid washing delicate fabrics on this cycle to prevent damage.

Choosing the right temperature: For best results, wash whites in warm or hot water, and cool or warm for coloured clothing.

Step 7: dry your laundry

It is important to remove your load from the washing machine as soon as you can to reduce wrinkles and prevent mildew. There are many ways to dry your laundry. Some options include:

Maximise your spin cycle: Use a high spin setting on your washing machine to speed up the drying process. Make sure your fabrics are suitable for this method. The best hack is to keep your loads small.

Air drying outdoors: For best results, hang clothes in a well-ventilated area with plenty of airflow. Ensure garments are spaced apart to allow for even drying.

Air drying indoors: It’s best to hang your clothing near a window, a radiator, a fan or by a dehumidifier to avoid mould buildup and increase ventilation.

If you are in a cooler climate, heated clothes airers are a cost-effective alternative to drying your garments indoors.

Tip: Hang your wet garments on hangers for faster drying, and with less creases.

Machine dryers: If you opt for a dryer, popping a totally dry bath towel into the mix of wet clothes will absorb moisture from your load. Alternatively, add a tennis ball or dryer ball to the drum to ensure the fabric is aerated. An extra tip is to always empty the lint filter after each load, as a full filter increases drying time and reduces efficiency. Again, it is important to check your garments care tag to see if they are dryer-safe.

Our Senior Copy Editor Julia Fairley’s favourite laundry tip is to “hang up everything that needs to be ironed on hangers while it dries as this helps remove the wrinkles.”

Step 8: hang, fold and store

Storing your clothes once they are dry will help prevent wrinkles from forming. A stable, climate-controlled space with good ventilation will help your fabrics breathe.

However, if your clothes need a bit of extra smoothing, investing in a good iron or handheld steamer can make a difference. For those stubborn creases, Shopping Editor Jess G. Lynch swears by a handheld steamer: “Investing in a handheld steamer is my biggest laundry hack. No need to whip out the ironing board, a handheld steamer can get the creases and wrinkles out of your most delicate materials (e.g. silk) without the fear of burning the material.”

For those who constantly on the go, Jess adds: “A steamer is also great for when you’re running late in the mornings as you can set it up, steam your outfit and get out the door in under five minutes!”

And there you have it! This step-by-step guide on how to do laundry is everything you need to perfect your washing routine. Don’t have all the essentials? Check out our handy shopping guides below, or scroll back up to find some of our top rated laundry products.

The post How to do laundry like a pro in 7 easy steps appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Thankfully, a dishwasher pulls the plug on these particular kitchen cleaning chores. That is, of course, unless you don’t have a dishwasher (yet) or your reliable dishwasher has finally kicked the bucket, and it’s time for a new one. 

Luckily, you can often find reliable, quality dishwashers to suit different budgets – especially during sale events such as Afterpay Day. Officially running from March 20 to March 23, this sales event offers valuable deals on big brands (and you don’t need Afterpay to get them), with Appliances Online, Samsung and Kogan among those signed up to offer savings on a range of appliances.

So if you want to upgrade from a noisy dishwasher, or are investing in your first one, here we have picked out nine of the best dishwashers based on different budgets, goals and features. We also go through the benefits of dishwashers, how to use them, features you need to look for as well as dishwasher installation and maintenance tips that will ensure your machine lasts the distance.

The best dishwashers in Australia 2025

01

LG QuadWash dishwasher

$1299, The Good Guys

The LG QuadWash dishwasher is designed to provide a thorough clean for dirty dishes, with capacity for a generous 15 place settings. It does this with four rotating blades, including two oscillating nozzles that pulse and deliver water throughout the cycle. You can also clean loads faster with ‘Turbo’ mode, which can clean light to moderately soiled dishes in 59 minutes.

Happy customers say it washes well and is easy to operate, with a 4.6 star average rating from over 515 reviews on The Good Guys.

“We upgraded to this dishwasher and absolutely adore it. Its quiet, efficient and does an amazing job at cleaning the dishes. The door opening stream dry is definitely worth it, too. Everything is truly sparkling and as if its in brand new condition each time it is cleaned,” one customer shared in a five star review from January 2025.

Key features:

• Capacity for 15 place settings
• Half load option
• Wifi connectivity options available
• Height adjustable baskets and upper rack
• 4 star energy rating and 5.5 star water rating
• 10-year parts warranty, 2 years parts and labour and 8 years on motor (parts only)

Shop Now

02

LG 60cm freestanding dishwasher

$899 (usually $999), The Good Guys

Quiet, effective and reliable, cleaner has never felt easier. With an incredible five-star Wels rating and a four-star energy rating, clean your dishes with ease knowing that you’re being a little kinder to the planet.

Key features:

• Half load option
• Adjustable racks for flexible loading
• Quiet performance
• Turbo cycle washes lightly soiled dishes in 59 minutes

Shop Now

03

Bosch Series 6 built-under dishwasher

$1296 (usually $1599), Appliances Online

Bosch is a trusted brand in dishwashing and their Series 6 range is known for its longevity. This built-under machine has a streamlined design that is packed with functionality including dosage assist to maximise the effectiveness of dishwasher tablets, ‘Extra Clean Zone’, sensor technology and easy glide baskets.

“Does a super job with significantly different modes including super quiet mode and eco, which is my choice most times for low water and energy use. Each cycle has our glasses spotless and if needed you can boost the drying time so there are less wet items when you open the door,” one customer shared in a five star review on Appliances Online, where it has a 4.7 star average rating from over 135 reviews.

Key features:

• 14 place setting capacity
• Anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish and soft-touch activated buttons
• 8-wash cycles including hygiene plus and extra- dry option
• 4-star energy rating, 5.5 star water rating
• Made in Germany

Also available at:

• $1199, The Good Guys
• $1449, Bing Lee

Shop Now

04

LG 60cm QuadWash freestanding dishwasher

$1458 (usually $1799), Appliances Online

This LG dishwasher is significantly quieter to run than many other dishwashers on the market, with noise levels when in use at 41 dBA (A-weighted decibels).

To give you an idea of what that means, dishwasher noise levels typically range from 40-60 dBA unless you have an older model. And a difference of just 10 dBA can be perceived as a 50% change in the noise level, according to Commercial Acoustics (a US industry specialist business).

As well as being very quiet, it is designed to efficiently clean your dishes, with water coming from multiple angles and a bottom-spray arm mechanism with four rotating blades. Customers on Appliances Online also rate it highly, with an average of 4.7 stars from over 96 reviews.

Key features:

• 15 place setting capacity
• Three-level adjustable upper rack
• Foldable tines to secure items or create more space
• 4 star energy rating and 5.5 star water rating
• Best noise levels on our list

Also available at:

• $1499, LG
• $1499, The Good Guys

Shop Now

Best affordable dishwashers under $1000

05

Samsung 60cm stainless steel freestanding dishwasher

$799, The Good Guys

This Samsung freestanding dishwasher is suited to larger households, frequent dinner party hosts or anyone who wants to clean large amounts of cookware and dinnerware in one go, with a generous 14-place setting capacity. It also features the option to run a ‘half-full’ load for urgent jobs, and has a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.

It has a 4.3-star average from over 215 reviews on The Good Guys, with one customer sharing: “Great dishwasher we purchased for our holiday cabin. Does a great job of washing the dishes with plenty of wash options, love the flexible shelves and the cutlery shelf is a great space saver. Very happy with my purchase.”

While it doesn’t have the highest energy or water rating, it does offer an ECO mode that can help you manage energy and water usage.

Key features:

• 14-place setting
• Baskets, racks and cutlery tray included
• Half-full load option
• Sanitise function
• 3.5 star energy rating and 4.5 star water rating
• 2-year manufacturer’s warranty

Shop Now

06

Haier 60cm Freestanding dishwasher

from $599 (usually) $629, Appliances Online

This affordable dishwasher was reviewed by Choice and performed just as well, if not better, than higher-end models. It can accommodate up to 13-place settings and the racks are height adjustable and foldable. But it doesn’t have child lock features, so may not be suitable for families with young children. It also has a relatively low 3-star energy rating (out of a possible 6), so keep that in mind in terms of household bills.

Key features:

• 6 wash cycles including fast wash, delicate wash and eco-wash
• Height-adjustable baskets
• Auto sensors
• 3 star energy rating and 4.5 star water rating
• 2 year manufacturer’s warranty

Also available at:

• $499, Betta Home Living

Shop Now

07

Beko freestanding dishwasher in platinum steel

from $799 (usually $899), Betta Home Living

Beko machines may be affordable, but they are packed with features often seen only in higher-end models. This machine is relatively quiet (reaching 47 dBA), comes with both a cutlery basket and drawer and even harnesses the power of steam to kill bacteria and leave plates and glasses sparkling clean.

Key features:

• 7 wash programs including mini 30, auto and intensive
• Energy rating 3.5 star and water rating 4 stars
• Also available in black.

Also available at:

• $799, Bing Lee
• $838 (usually $1099), Appliances Online

Shop Now

Best dishwashers over $1000

08

BOSCH 60cm stainless steel dishwasher

$1257 (usually $1599), Appliances Online

Wash large amounts of cookware easily with this 15-place setting dishwasher from BOSCH. It’s perfect for large households or those who often love to host dinner parties. Choose from six intuitive wash programs that will leave your dishes sparkling clean every time.

Key features:

• 15-place setting capacity
• 6 wash programs
• Foldable racks
• Eco wash setting available

Also available at:

• $1299 (usually $1399), Bing Lee

Shop Now

09

Fisher & Paykel 60cm double dishwasher drawers in stainless steel

$1849 (usually $1999), Betta Home Living

Dishwasher drawers are great for kitchens were the load size varies from day-to-day. You can run a half load when there are only a few items to clean, or run both drawers on days you entertain. They’re also a great option for smaller kitchens where the standard dishwasher door size is unfeasible. Fisher & Paykel are the original dishwasher drawer specialists, launching the first machine in the late 1990s.

In addition to being quiet, looking great in a modern kitchen and conserving both energy and water, this unit features a ‘Sanitise’ option which can kill up to 99.9% of bacteria in the final rinse.

Key features:

• True half load wash
• Quiet operation (reaching 43dBA on standard cycle top drawer)
• 6 wash programs including eco and delicate

Also available at:

• $1849 (usually $1999), Appliances Online
• $1849 (usually $1999), Bing Lee

Shop Now

Best dishwasher brands

According to Canstar, the highest-rated dishwasher brands for customer satisfaction (which rates according to performance, features, value for money, ease of use, design and overall satisfaction) are:

• Samsung
• Bosch
• LG
• Westinghouse
• Fisher and Paykel

Other highly reputable dishwasher manufacturers with legions of loyal customers include Miele, ASKO and Dishlex.

Are expensive dishwashers worth it?

Colin Jones, category expert at Appliances Online, says the main difference between expensive dishwashers and affordable dishwashers are the features. “Higher-end dishwashers may incorporate more advanced cleaning technology, better insulation and noise reduction, energy-saving options, including sensors that adjust cycle length based on load size and soil level, additional wash cycles and smart features.”

Tim Rosenzweig, the owner-operator at That Appliance Repair Guy and HiPages customer advisory board member, says that while expensive machines are often well-built, they can sometimes be more expensive to repair. “I went to repair a dishwasher that was just three years old and the cost of the control board alone, which was at the front of the machine, was $900. And that dishwasher cost $2000 to buy, so the part was half the price of a new dishwasher.” 

Tim’s solution? To buy a dishwasher that is well-built, simple (because less can go wrong) and has affordable repair parts. “Look at the cost of the repairs to the unit because it is going to fail.”

How long should a dishwasher last?

Which brings us to the next question, how long can you expect a dishwasher to last? 

“If it’s just a cheap unit to get you by, then expect to replace it every 2-3 years,” says Tim. “A good dishwasher should last at least 10 years and may require about 2-3 repairs in that time period.”

To help you choose a dishwasher, we’ve picked out some of the best models in Australia based on their design, performance and other features. We’ve also categorised them based on two of the biggest considerations for buying a dishwasher: price – with options under $1000 and over $1000 categorised separately – and noise.

Features to look for when buying a dishwasher

The best dishwasher will be one that suits your family’s needs, your budget and your kitchen. As category expert at Appliances Online, Colin says the key features to consider include: capacity, size, efficiency, noise levels and whether the racks are flexible or adjustable. “If you have lots of large pots and pans, you may want to consider a unit with adjustable racks, this can make it easier to load different types of dishes,” he says. 

Operational features you may want to compare across models include: 

• Energy saving mode
• Half load
• Racks that lift up (great for those with back pain)
• Assisted drying (either with a fan or automatic door-open feature)
• Additional wash cycles: including delicate, steam cleaning and extra rinse options
• Wifi connectivity and smart capabilities
• Child lock
• Cutlery basket or cutlery drawer

“Some brands and models may supply both a cutlery basket and a tray,” says Colin. “Cutlery baskets are great for easy loading as you just need to place everything in the basket. Cutlery trays will help your utensils get a better wash as the items are washed separately within the tray. A cutlery tray also means you have more room in the lower rack, providing you with a larger capacity.” 

Cutlery drawer or cutlery basket – which is better?

Another important thing to consider …

Tim says one thing people don’t often consider when buying a dishwasher is how much it will cost to repair down the line. “If you buy a good dishwasher, then you’ll want to repair it, rather than replace it,” he says.

“When researching a dishwasher to buy, look up the cost of repair parts first, look at the quality of the unit, the reputation of the unit and whether it’s going to be worth repairing in the future.”

Having repaired countless dishwashers over the years, he admits, “Dishwashers don’t last as long as they used to, so in my opinion, it’s a good idea to get the extended warranty.”

Can I install a dishwasher by myself?

If your kitchen has had a dishwasher installed previously, and there is a water supply, energy supply and a drainage point, installing a new machine yourself is possible. 

“If you’re a DIY-er, installing a dishwasher is probably medium-level difficulty as long as you follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions,” says Tim. “It can be as simple as pushing back a freestanding dishwasher into place, making sure  that the hoses are in the correct position so they’re not going to get crushed at the back, behind the machine.”

“Install the dishwasher outside of the cavity, making sure the hoses reach to the water point, to the drainage point and the cord reaches the power point so you can test the machine while it’s outside and everything is visible. If you have the ability to run it outside of the cavity and you have any issues or need to repair it later on, it will be really easy to slide out, diagnose and fault-find and it will save you a whole lot of money and hassle.”

Tim’s top tip for installing a dishwasher DIY

Common dishwasher installation mistakes

Aside from crushing pipes and hoses behind or underneath the machine, Tim says some of the most common dishwasher installation mistakes include: 

• Trapping the dishwasher inside the cavity with flooring. “If you put in a new floor, remove your dishwasher first, floor all the way to the back of the cavity, then re-install the dishwasher.”
• Not taking steam and moisture into account: “Make sure that the steam released by the dishwasher isn’t going to cause any damage to your cabinetry.” 
• Failing to use the correct adhesives: “Cabinet-makers will often use a higher heat-resistant glue around the oven and dishwasher cavities, but if you’re doing it yourself and haven’t allowed for higher heats, it could be an issue.”

Maintaining your dishwasher

One way you can ensure your dishwasher cleans well for years to come is to keep it clean! This means running a hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner once every six months. “What these do is they clean away all the limescale and any mould build up,” says Tim. 

How to clean a dishwasher filter

Cleaning your dishwasher filters is the key to sparkling clean dishes. But Tim says the task requires more than just tapping out the food scraps and putting it back in. He says most people ignore the most important part: the oil filter or oil element, which can usually be found around the dishwasher filter. 

“Oil filters, or oil elements, should really be cleaned every week,” he says. “If you haven’t been doing it weekly, then take out that element filter and run it under hot water and scrub it with a nylon brush (or toothbrush). Get all the oil off the element filter.” 

It may be a wonder cleaner, but there are some things you should never clean with vinegar – and your dishwasher is one of them, says Tim. “I’ve worked on a lot of units that have had people putting vinegar and other things through them, but it actually perishes the plastics, because they’re not really designed for that type of acid. They’re only designed to take certain detergents.”

Should you clean a dishwasher with vinegar?

How to stack a dishwasher correctly

Plates should be placed at the bottom of the dishwasher, ensuring there is enough space between them to allow water and soap to reach. Cups, glasses and bowls should be placed at an angle so water can reach from below. Forks and spoons should be placed in the cutlery basket handle down, and knives handle up (for safety). The key is to avoid overloading your dishwasher.

While there are some things you should never clean in the dishwasher, many dishwashers are gentle enough to handle delicate glassware and other items including kids toys and faux flowers.

Do you need to rinse dishes before placing them in the dishwasher?

No, you don’t need to rinse dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. Rinsing the dishes before washing them in the dishwasher just uses unnecessary extra water and may actually lead to a poorer wash. That’s because most modern dishwashers have sensors that detect how dirty the dishes are, and will adjust their jets accordingly. If the plates already look clean, the dishwasher may only conduct a light wash.

Not convinced? Try using the dishwasher’s pre-rinse cycle instead. A pre-rinse cycle runs for approximately 11 minutes and only uses 5 litres of water, compared to 9.5 litres per minute under a running tap.

Related content:

Previous

Undeniable proof you need a lift dishwasher in your life

How to clean glassware properly in your dishwasher

13 things you didn’t know your dishwasher could do

Next

The post The best dishwashers to upgrade your kitchen – including some on sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The radio host shared before-and-after pics on Instagram and an insight into why the high-profile couple were listing the house after living here for such a short time. “[Our] careers have aligned this year, both working in breakfast radio, which allows us time to sink our teeth into something we really love doing,” she said. “No, we are not getting a divorce, but we did get the renovation bug and can’t shake it.”

Nestled in a coveted cul-de-sac, the five-bedroom stunner has undergone a top-to-toe transformation, blending contemporary elegance with classic charm. Think warm timber floors, gold accents and a crisp white kitchen with shaker-style cabinetry – a designer’s dream. The three beautifully updated bathrooms only add to the home’s refined appeal.

Step outside, and the magic continues. With Springwood Conservation Park as its natural backdrop, the alfresco spaces are made for entertaining – wraparound verandahs, a sparkling pool with a pool house, two barbecue zones, a pizza oven, and even a sandstone fire pit. It’s the ultimate retreat, where everyday living feels like a getaway.

Offers between $2.7 and $2.9 million were welcomed with the selling price listed as $2,875,000. Die-hard Broncos fans take note: the trove of team memorabilia was strictly off-limits. And that well-loved pool table? It’s moving with them – just as it did from their last home.

Speaking of which, it’s been less than two years since the Parkers sold their previous Brisbane property – a stunning Provincial-meets-rustic masterpiece – for just under $3 million.

Now, they’re ready to crash tackle their next dream project, and word is, they won’t be moving far.

We’ll admit to being somewhat envious of the lucky buyer who will soon kick back in this dream home. Check out the full listing for all the details.

The post Footy legend Corey Parker’s home sells for almost $3M after just two years appeared first on Home Beautiful.

What’s the difference between kitchen taps and mixer taps?

Kitchen taps, or faucets, which have separate levers for hot and cold water are the more traditional type of fixture. They are often used in heritage homes though they can bring charm and maturity to modern kitchens. Kitchen mixer taps however have a single handle, or lever, which controls everything from temperature to water pressure. These are the most commonly used kitchen taps in modern homes.
These two main types of kitchen taps can have a few particular features. Some include pull-out taps, which have retractable spouts for increased range. Others have swivel spouts, with varying degrees of range.
But you won’t know what you want until you see what’s on offer. Scroll down to shop some of our favourite kitchen taps and mixers, from goosenecks with high arches to contemporary square silhouettes.

We spoke to Jennie Adams, Sales and Design Manager at ABI Interiors for her best tips and tricks.

• If you have a bench-mounted basin and want bench-mounted tapware, ensure that the basin mixer extends high enough to reach above the basin. An extended mixer is often required in this case. For under-mounted basins, a standard basin mixer is usually sufficient.
• Think about who will be using the tap. Elysian taps have excellent accessibility, well suited to children and elderly users.
• If you have limited bench space, a wall-mounted tap may be the best option to maximise your available area.
• Decide whether you prefer separate controls for hot and cold water or if a single mixer is more convenient.

What to consider before buying tapware

Shop the best kitchen taps in 2025

01

‘Eden’ square kitchen mixer in White

$249.90, ABI Interiors

Best for: Contemporary design

Lovers of contemporary interiors have a lot to like about the ‘Eden’ kitchen mixer from ABI Interiors. It has all the modern conveniencees to expect, such as a 360° swivel spout, but it’s certainly the modern aesthetic that is most striking. The square spout design, especially in the white semi-gloss lacquer finish, creates a sculptural piece perfect for a modern kitchen.

Colours: White, Brushed Brass, Brushed Copper, Brushed Gunmetal, Brushed Nickel, Chrome, Matte Black

Materials: Solid brass construction.

Key features:

• Square style
• Semi-gloss lacquer finish
• White finish
• 360° swivel spout
• Brass construction
• Seven colour options

Shop Now

02

Zip mixer tap in Rose Gold

$935, Winnings

Best for: A warm and luxe finish

This gooseneck mixer tap has a sleek and simple design that is elegant and timeless. The rose gold finish elevates this, creating a style statement that is sure to stun. The arched swivel spout has a high clearance, leaving you plenty of room for washing dishes, filling jugs and cleaning hands.

Colours: Rose Gold.

Key features:

• One year warranty
• High arch
• Gooseneck style
• Swivel spout
• Rose gold finish

Shop Now

03

Meir pinless round kitchen sink mixer tap in Champagne

$463 (was $579), The Blue Space

Best for: Pinless handle

This gooseneck style kitchen tap has a stunning electroplated champagne finish. The design is flexible and customisable as the handle can be positioned either front-facing or on the side. This means you have the power to pick the look and function that suits you and your home best.

Colours: Lustre Bronze, Shadow, Champagne, Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Tiger Bronze and Matte Black.

Materials: Brass

Key features:

• Lifetime warranty
• High arch
• Gooseneck style
• Pinless handle
• Champagne finish
• Brass construction

Shop Now

04

Tiago Tapware ‘Avalon’ spring pull-out/down kitchen mixer in Chrome

$249.99, Temple and Webster

Best for: 360° swivel capability

This modern kitchen tap has plenty of practical features, including a pull-out function and 360° swivel capability. This means you are able to splash water with less restrictions, reaching every corner of the basin. With a brass construction, it’s available in four finishes.

Colours: Chrome, Brushed Chrome, Gunmetal and Polished Brass.

Materials: Brass.

Key features:

• 15 year warranty
• High arch
• Chrome finish
• Brass construction

Shop Now

05

Sussex ‘Voda’ curved sink mixer in Brushed Gunmetal

$729, Appliances Online

Best for: Available in seven finishes

“Form follows function” is the guiding principle behind Sussex designs, which is clear in this modern yet classic and clean collection of tapware. The ‘Voda’ curved kitchen tap mixer has a timeless and elegant design. This gooseneck style has a high arch which is both stylish and practical.

Colours: Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Satin Chrome, Brushed Gunmetal, Matte Black, Tumbled Brass and Brushed Brass Gold.

Key features:

• 15 year warranty
• High arch
• Brushed gunmetal finish
• Seven finish options
• Gooseneck

Shop Now

06

Hansgrohe ‘Talis’ ijet sink mixer tap in Stainless Steel

$891, Winnings

Best for: Adjustable swivel range

This gooseneck kitchen tap has a contemporary stainless steel finish and high arch. Functionally, the sink mixer has a laminar spray, ceramic cartridge and an adjustable swivel range. Simply choose from 60°, 110°, 150° and 160° for the swivel range.

Colours: Stainless steel.

Key features:

• 15 year warranty
• High arch
• Stainless steel finish
• Adjustable swivel range
• Gooseneck

Shop Now

07

‘Elysian’ commercial 3-way filter tap in Brushed Brass

$699.90, ABI Interiors

Best for: Filter system

This gooseneck kitchen tap has a classy brushed brass finish and two levers, one to control water pressure and another to control temperature. This tap is compatible with ABI Interior’s 3 stage undersink water filter system, giving you access to purified and filtered water, all from a chic fixture.

Colours: Brushed Brass.

Key features:

• Ceramic cartridge
• High arch
• Stainless steel construction
• Brushed brass finish
• Gooseneck

Shop Now

08

Slim 30 kitchen mixer with square spout in Fucile PVD

$855, Parisi

Best for: Square spout.

If you’re looking for a sleek and contemporary kitchen mixer, this design is ideal. The slimline style is modern, right down to the slim rounded handle. The square silhouette is striking, especially in the sleek, dark Fucile PVD finish.

Colours: Brushed Nickel PVD, Brushed Brass PVD, Fucile PVD, Electroplate Chrome and Electroplate Matte Black.

Materials: Brass.

Key features:

• Five finishes
• Square spout
• Contemporary design
• Brass construction
• Slimline style

Shop Now

09

Perrin & Rowe ‘Ionian’ 2-hole bench mounted sink mixer in Gold with White porcelain lever taps

$2285, The English Tapware Company

Best for: Traditional charm

With a high arch, two charming levers and a spray rinse, Perrin & Rowe’s ‘Ionian’ kitchen sink mixer has a classical beauty that evokes imagery of butler’s sinks and Martha Stewart. While this design does appear more traditional, it can still fit right in with modern kitchens as there are seven finishes to choose from. The white porcelain levers can also be switched to black porcelain or a matching metal to complement the finish of the tapware.

Colours: Chrome, Nickel, Pewter, Polished Brass, Satin Brass and Gold.

Materials: Premium grade brass.

Key features:

• Traditional
• Spray rinse
• High arch
• Levers
• 360° swivel range
• 15 year warranty

Shop Now

10

City Plus kitchen mixer in Durobrite Chrome with B Lever

Brodware

Best for: Available in 22 finishes.

Why settle for one version of brass, chrome or nickel when you can select a really specific type of the exact finish you want? The City Plus kitchen mixer from Brodware is available in a whopping 22 finishes, giving you plenty of control over the look of your kitchen taps. It has a swivel spout and also comes with two options for the attached lever.

Colours: Durobrite Chrome, Brushed Chrome, Polished Nickel PVD, Brushed Nickel PVD, Polished Swiss Brass PVD, Brushed Swiss Brass PVD, Polished Nordic Brass PVD, Brushed Nordic Brass PVD, Polished Gold PVD, Nero, Brushed Gold PVD Polished Rose Gold PVD, Brushed Rose Gold PVD, Brushed Copper PVD, Roma Bronze PVD, Statue Bronze PVD, Aged Iron PVD, Bright Black PVD, Weathered Brass Organic, Rumbled Brass Organic, Brushed Brass Organic and Polished Brass Organic.

Key features:

• Made in Australia
• 22 finishes
• Gooseneck
• High arch
• Two lever options
• Swivel spout

Shop Now

11

Kaya ‘Ambience’ sink mixer in Matte Blossom

$175 (was $349), Fienza

Best for: Pretty in pink.

Kitchen taps are rarely available in pink, especially such a subtle and soft shade. This matte blossom pink finish is achieved using a baked lacquer colour process. The gooseneck outlet has a swivel function, ensuring practicality as well as prettiness.

Colours: Matte Blossom.

Materials: Solid brass

Key features:

• Pin lever handle
• Gooseneck
• High arch
• Swivel function
• Made from solid brass
• Soft pink finish
• Matte finish

Shop Now

12

‘Vido’ flexible hose sink mixer in Chrome

$792, Phoenix Tapware

Best for: Detachable handpiece for extended reach

It’s time to be a little more flexible. The single function handpiece of this kitchen tap detachesfrom the cradle for extended reach. The hose is silicone, aiding this flexibility. Want even more range? The 360° swivel spout will achieve just that.

Colours: Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Matte Black

Materials: Brass construction

Key features:

• 360° swivel spout
• Silicone hose
• Detachable handpiece for extended reach
• Brass construction
• 5 star water rating
• 15 year cartridge warranty

Shop Now

The post 12 of the best kitchen taps and mixers to suit every interior style appeared first on Home Beautiful.

We’ve consulted the experts so that you have all the information you need, from beans to machines and everything in between, to make the perfect brew.

How to select the right coffee machine model

The options can feel endless, but there are two main categories: automatic and manual. Which one you choose should suit your lifestyle. Alana Hollings, national brand manager – Electrical at Harvey Norman, suggests thinking about how much effort you want to put into making a coffee.

“An automatic coffee machine with an integrated milk frother would be the best option for someone who wants a good coffee with minimum fuss,” she says. These high-tech machines grind beans, extract espresso and froth the milk at the touch of a button. If you want to personalise your coffee a little more, semi-automatics will allow you to grind and tamper your coffee while the machine does the rest of the work. Capsules are also automatic but do away with beans altogether, simply requiring a capsule of ground coffee to extract your espresso shot. As close to the convenience of instant coffee as you can possibly get, these machines are easy to clean, low effort and pods come in a variety of flavours.

Manual machines have increased in popularity as people realise anyone can make a great cup of coffee if they do their research and have the right tools. Manual machines allow you to control every step of the process, from grinding to dosing, tamping and determining the strength of the cup you want. The speed at which hot water is forced through the coffee is called bar pressure; aim for at least nine bars.

How to select the right coffee beans

The two most common and popular types of beans are arabica and robusta. “Arabica is more flavoursome and doesn’t have as much caffeine,” explains Sam Demelis, national coffee training manager at Complete Hospitality Training. “The robusta beans are slightly cheaper. They have a slightly higher caffeine content and can be quite bitter.” That’s why Sam recommends robusta for coffee with milk and arabica for black coffee. Ultimately, it comes down to trial and error, and you don’t have to pick one or the other. “Mixing beans and creating blends to suit your palate can be really fun. Keep it simple and make sure you’re happy before you give it to anyone else.”

Coffee machine price range

When it comes to coffee machines and makers, the price range truly couldn’t be wider. At the higher end of the budget are espresso or automatic coffee machines, which can stretch from $500 all the way to $10,000-plus. If you are looking for more affordable options that still achieve great results, try a stovetop coffee maker (a Moka pot is one example), French press, Aeropress, pour-over, cold brew or cold-drip makers. And if that lengthy list of recommendations makes your head spin, refer to the glossary below to see how these work and what their benefits are. No matter your preference, it pays to do the research and keep a bunch of items on your wishlist to be ready to pounce when the sales begin.

How to make a great cup of coffee

A quality cup of coffee begins with the beans. “For automatic or manual coffee machine users, storing whole beans or fresh grounds in a vacuum-sealed canister is important as the coffee starts to lose its flavour as it comes into contact with air,” advises Alana. If you use a capsule machine, opt for a quality product and store them appropriately.

Whole beans kept in a cool, dry cupboard (not a fridge) are the best option as they retain their oils longer. Sam suggests only grinding as many beans as you’ll need for 4-5 days at a time. “The finer the grind, the higher the chances are your coffee will be bitter,” warns Sam. The best consistency is slightly finer than cracked pepper. To get a good crema (the fine layer of froth on top of your espresso) make sure you’ve ground the beans to the right consistency for your machine, tamped evenly and used fresh coffee. Then simply sit back and enjoy!

“A lot of passion goes into making coffee. It puts a smile on your face when you get it right”

Sam Demelis, Complete Hospitality Training

The best home coffee machines and accessories to shop 2025

Looking to up your coffee game? Read on for our top picks of the best coffee machines and accessories to shop in Australia.

01

Semi automatic espresso machine with burr grinder

$799 (usually $999), KitchenAid

Best for: Stylish, simple hands-on operation

This award-winning machine was designed to balance automatic coffee production and a hands-on experience at home. The on-board burr grinder is adjustable for grind and auto-dosage and the extra large 2.5l water tank means fewer refills between fixes. If you’re a milk coffee drinker, this is a strong contender in the market for perfecting microfoam with a domestic machine

Colours: Porcelain – Gloss, Cast Iron Black – Crinkle, Juniper – Gloss, Stainless Steel – Metallic.

Key features:

• Metal clad construction
• Removable bean hopper
• On board burr grinder
• Makes up to 17 espresso shots
• 2.5l water tank
• Red Dot product design award 2024

Also available at:

• $849, Myer
• $848, The Good Guys

Shop Now

02

Vertuo Pop Solo

$179 (usually $229), Amazon

Best for: A pop of colour

Looking to add a pop of colour to your morning routine? The Vertuo Pop range from Nespresso will do just the trick. Available in a range of fun and bright colourways, but our pick is this one in a bold red hue. This machine is the most compact and affordable machine in the brand’s Vertuo range. 

Colours: Spicy Red, Aqua Mint, Coconut White, Liquorice Black, Pacific Blue and Mango Yellow.

Key features:

• Removable water tank (0.56L)
• Adjustable cup holder
• Automatic power off after two minutes

Also available at:

• $229, Nespresso

Shop Now

03

De’Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo

$649 (usually $699), De’Longhi

Best for: coffee enthusiasts

This premium espresso machine is designed for coffee enthusiasts. Featuring a dual heating system and advanced steam technology, it ensures optimal extraction and perfectly textured milk for café-quality beverages at home. The integrated grinder allows for fresh grounds on demand, while the precise temperature control guarantees consistent results. With user-friendly controls and a sleek design, this machine combines functionality and style, making it a stunning addition to any kitchen. Enjoy the art of coffee making and indulge in rich, aromatic espresso with every cup.

Colours: Metal.

Key features:

• 3-infusion tempuratures
• Cold brew in under 5 minutes
• Full accessory kit

Also available at:

• $658, Amazon

Shop Now

04

Gaggia ‘Cardorna Prestige’ automatic coffee machine

$1414 (usually $1899), Appliances Online

Best for: Beans or ground coffee

Use beans or coffee grounds in this Italian-made high-tech machine that offers 14 different beverage options to choose from. An espresso tray and built-in frother does away with a fiddly milk jug and promises a flawless espresso every time. Oh, and you can save four different user profiles to save your choices once you find your favourite brew. 

Key features:

• Use beans or ground coffee
• Built-in espresso tray
• Integrated milk carafe

Shop Now

05

DeLonghi Magnifica Evo Next coffee machine

$919 (usually $1149), De’Longhi

Best for: Barista-style brews

With customisable drink options and automatic milk frothing technology, this smart machine brews barista-style drinks from the comfort of your home. The drip tray goes into the dishwasher for easy cleaning too. We recently tried and tested the Magnifica Evo next and found that the user friendly display and customisable drink options make it the perfect companion for people with busy routines, or who are short on time.

Key features:

• 13 customisable drink options
• User-friendly display
• Automatic milk foam
• Removable, dishwasher-safe components

Shop Now

06

Sunbeam Compact barista espresso machine

$164.09 (usually $279), Amazon

Best for: Coffee for one

Coffee for one, coming right up! This compact espresso machine from Sunbeam is perfect for small kitchens. With a fast heat-up time and auto-shot volumetric control, you’ll be pouring your perfect cuppa, every morning.

Key features:

• Fast heat up time
• Auto-shot volumetric control
• Cafe style milk steam wand
• In-built temperature controller

Shop Now

07

OXO Brew compact cold brew coffee maker

$34.90, Amazon

Best for: Cold brew

If cold brew coffee is your thing, this elegant setup will serve up stylish aesthetics with your morning brew. Plus, its compact size means to takes up less space in your kitchen as well as your fridge.

Key features:

• Rainmaker evenly distributes water over coffee grounds
• Glass carafe
• Stainless steel mesh filter
• Brewer and carafe nest for convenient storage

Shop Now

08

La Marzocco Linea Micra coffee machine

$5999, Winnings

Best for: Coffee fiends

There’s a reason La Marzocco is every barista’s go-to coffee machine. At-home baristas will love the new Linea Micra, a compact version of the Linea Mini and Classic, with café quality features such as a dual boiler for temperature control, a convertible portafilter and a cool touch wand for safe steaming. The Linea Micra is even IOT app compatible with remote control, so there’s no waiting around in the morning to start brewing.

Key features:

• Insulated steam wand:
• Drip tray
• Hot water spout
• Barista lights

Shop Now

09

Bellman ‘CX 25P’ espresso maker and steamer

$349, Amazon

Best for: Stovetop lovers

Designed for the hands-on coffee enthusiast, the Bellman works like any stovetop machine to brew your espresso but also has an integrated steam wand to froth your milk. It may take a bit of tinkering to get it right, but when you do, it’ll brew up to nine espressos to perfection. 

Key features:

• 3, 6, or 9 cup capacity
• Compatible with gas, electric, ceramic, campfire and induction

Shop Now

The best coffee machine accessories

10

Sunbeam Barista Essential accessories kit

$115 (usually $129), Myer

Best for: A clean bench

More than just looking the part, this knock box will save your benchtop and collect all of the mess of coffee grinds for easy disposal.

Key features:

• Dishwasher safe grinds bin
• Silicon mat
• Precision milk thermometer

Shop Now

11

Zulay handheld milk frother

from $39.34, Amazon

Best for: frothing milk or matcha

Who knew a handheld milk frother would come with a lifetime warranty? The Zulay milk frother has garnered 167,066 reviews on Amazon, with an average of 4.3 stars – so to say it’s a popular pick, is an understatement. With this handheld milk frother you can make rich and creamy microfoam in seconds, or you could use it to whisk your matcha for matcha lattes too. Plus, it’s easy to clean and store with its durable and convenient included metal stand.

Key features:

• Comes with a metal stand
• Lifetime warranty
• Suitable for matchas

Shop Now

12

The Smart Grinder Pro grinder

$314 (usually $449), Amazon

Best for: The perfect grind

With pre-programming for dosing and grind profile, this streamlined unit has a conical burr grinder to get through your daily dose. If you’re after a full-bodied, aromatic and flavoursome brew, we’d recommend adding this grinder to your coffee-making set up – stat. 

Key features:

• 60 grind settings
• LCD display
• Precision dosing

Also available at:

• $324 (usually $349), Appliances Online
• $349, Breville
• $329, The Good Guys

Shop Now

What are some common mistakes when buying a coffee machine?

According to Sam Demelis, the biggest mistake people make is judging a machine by the brand. “People almost feel as though they need to have a certain brand of coffee or a certain brand of machine,” says Sam. Instead, he suggests doing your research to find a machine that fits your price range and lifestyle.

How to clean your coffee machine

Keeping your coffee machine pristine is one of the easiest ways to ensure its longevity and may even improve the taste of your coffee, says Sam. “After every use, flush out the group head (the part of the espresso machine that you attach the group handle to) so that you rinse out old coffee grinds. Wash the drip trays and keep the water tank empty when you’re not using it.” If you clean your machine regularly then you (thankfully) won’t have to use heavy chemicals to descale build up. If you prefer a lower-maintenance option, Harvey Norman’s Alana Hollings recommends buying a capsule machine.

A glossary of coffee terms

Capsule coffee machine

Capsules or pods pre-filled with ground coffee are used to quickly and cleanly make a brew. An excellent low-maintenance option.

Manual coffee machine

Also called an espresso machine. Uses freshly ground coffee and often comes with an attached steam wand for milk. For true connoisseurs.

Automatic coffee machine

Grinds whole beans, extracts espresso and froths milk at the touch of a button.

Tamper

Packs fresh coffee grounds into the basket of an espresso machine.

Grinder

Grinds whole coffee beans, either automatically or manually. Some machines come with built-in grinders.

Cold brew coffee

Uses time rather than heat to extract oils, sugars and caffeine from the coffee. Coffee grounds are left to steep in cold or room temperature water for 8-24 hours then filtered to make a concentrate that can be used for a couple of days.

Cold drip coffee

Separates coffee grounds from cold water with the use of a tower. Iced water drips on to the grounds and, once absorbed, coffee filters to the bottom of the vessel (3-12 hours). Best for iced coffees, especially without milk.

Aeropress

A portable manual coffee maker that uses hand pressure on a plunger to force water through the coffee grounds.

Pour-over coffee

Hot water is poured over a filter filled with grounds placed in a funnel set over a carafe or cup for the ultimate low-tech espresso.

Stovetop coffee

Boiling water, pressurised by steam, passes through grounds in a central filter to create brewed coffee.

French press

A pot with plunger and built-in filter screen that presses the hot water through the coffee.

The post Now’s the perfect time to refresh your coffee setup with these deals on home coffee machines appeared first on Home Beautiful.

What they did find, however, was a charming but dated 1930s Californian bungalow on Sydney’s North Shore, which beckoned with potential. Close to the couple’s grandchildren and public transport, and large enough to host loved ones, the low-maintenance, single-storey abode ticked every box on their wishlist, except one: it was crying out for a revamp. Aesthetics aside, there was asbestos to remove, an old slab to replace and damp issues to fix, so after admiring Krista’s work, Christine and Greg engaged her to unveil the bungalow’s potential.

Who lives here?

Christine and Greg, who downsized from the couple’s larger family home nearby.

Where is it? The single-storey 1930s California bungalow is on Sydney’s North Shore.
How long did the renovation take? Design work began in October 2022, a DA was submitted to council in February 2023 and approval was granted in July 2023. Building started one month later, finishing in June 2024.
The dream? To improve flow, infuse the home with style and storage, and cater to hosting.
The brief? The interiors received a top-to-toe revamp, a new deck was added to the exterior, and the carport and studio were fully renovated.
Must-haves? A single-storey home so they can age happily in place, with large indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, a garage, and a low-maintenance design they can lock up and leave when travelling.
On the wishlist? “The self-contained, detached studio was a real bonus, which certainly had not been included on our wishlist!” says Christine.
Why is this your dream home? “We are well-settled and extremely happy in our new home and now couldn’t imagine living anywhere else,” shares Christine.

Kitchen

“The kitchen wasn’t in terrible shape, but it was dated and in need of fixing up,” shares Krista of the existing cooking space. In its place is now a stone-clad marvel, where Calacatta Viola marble in Monet from Franchi Umberto Marmi Australia reigns supreme.

“Originally, there were hardwood floors, but we had a lot of moisture under the house, so our builders had to get in there and deal with some of those issues to make the home nice and dry,” explains Krista. She replaced the old floorboards with elegant ‘De Marque Oak’ in Chevron Cannes from Preference Floors.

Butler’s pantry

Dining

Alfresco

Having an entertainer’s home was a must for Christine and Greg, who had long coveted a sheltered alfresco living zone. “Despite having a beautiful, sprawling home before, they’ve never had an undercover area where they could entertain outside,” says Krista. “They wanted the Australian dream. Now, they can open the big steel doors, pull the long dining tables together and host everyone outside, even if it’s raining.”

To bring their vision to life, she proposed a covered, spacious deck that now wraps around the home, flows directly off the indoor living area and is styled just as beautifully with alfresco furniture and decor. “They go out every morning and have a coffee in their new outdoor area at the back,” says Krista. “They love starting their day like that, it puts smiles on their faces.”

Renovation lessons learnt

Despite most of the changes being internal, Christine and Greg needed to lodge a Development Application (DA) with council to alter their home’s exterior envelope. This gave them greater creative freedom than if they’d worked within the stringent rules of a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), which governs internal building works. However, they lost six precious months waiting for DA approval. “If you can stay within your building envelope with whatever renovation you want to do, that’s great, as you can get a CDC through council fast,” explains Krista.

While the wait was anticipated, what caught everyone off guard was the soaring price of materials in the wake of Covid. In just 10 short months between starting the design and the build, Christine and Greg needed to increase their budget to achieve the dream.

Bathrooms

Best renovation advice

Every renovation, without exception, involves compromises. “I always ask my clients in the very beginning, ‘When that time comes for us, would you rather compromise on budget or aesthetic?’” says Krista. “Nine times out of 10, they say budget. I’ve never seen anybody wish they hadn’t chosen the nicer option.” She also says it’s vital to be upfront with your designer or architect about which rooms or features you value and which are lower priorities.

Krista suggests adding 30 per cent to every quote, from your joists to your joinery. “Give yourself a buffer, then ask for that amount when you go to the bank,” she says. “It’s better having extra money there now, even if you are paying a bit of interest on it, than needing to request it later, as delays can cost you a lot more in the long run. And if you don’t need it, you’ve only paid a small amount for peace of mind and to keep your project on track.”

Working with a reputable builder is key, though Krista cautions clients that the golden days of fixed-price contracts are numbered. “If you do have one though, chances are they’ve built that buffer in already. So you may be paying a little bit more upfront, but you’ll have that extra peace of mind,” she explains.

Laundry

Bedrooms

Living

Krista specified timeless wall mouldings to infuse the interiors with the look Christine and Greg love. “They really wanted to honour the classic details that were already there, which California bungalows have, but modernise it as well,” she explains. “Not only did we keep the ceiling mouldings, but we enhanced them by adding wall mouldings.” For similar moulding profiles, try ‘IN23’ timber inlay moulds from Intrim.

To echo the elevated interior finishes, Christine and Greg bought a digital artwork by Still Moving Art at Etsy to display on their Samsung ‘The Frame’ TV, which is neatly bordered by classic wall mouldings in the living area. The space is lit by a sconce from Etsy and a Jake Arnold ‘Ellery’ floor lamp that Krista shipped from Crate & Barrel. An Eco Smart fireplace built into the joinery unit cosies up the room.

Hallway

Interior design Krista Collard Interiors, kristacollarddesigns.com
Joinery Furnisa, furnisa.com.au
Builder Ducker Constructions, @duckerconstructions

Source Book

The post A Californian bungalow is revamped and futureproofed for downsizers on Sydney’s lower north shore appeared first on Home Beautiful.

But with so many different cordless stick vacuum cleaners on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Especially when the price of a stick vacuum ranges from under $100 to over $800. To help you choose one, we have researched and picked out our top 9 best cordless stick vacuum cleaners based on features including their battery run time, dust capacity and ease of use. We’ve also factored in customer reviews where possible and relevant, to give you a clear picture of what they’re like to use.

The best cordless stick vacuums on sale

01

Dyson V15 Detect Absolute

$1218.79 (usually $1449) at Amazon

The Dyson V15 Detect is one of the brand’s most powerful and popular cordless vacuums. It features a high torque cleaner head with anti-tangle technology, a laser and piezo sensor that detects and counts dust particles to adjust suction power accordingly, as well as an easy-to-read LCD screen that will make vacuuming the home easier than ever.

Over 17,000 customers have reviewed this stick vacuum, including in Australia, with one local customer summing it up in a five star review by writing: “The suck on this is brilliant. I love it when its that strong. I love the change of strength options. Love the light so you can chase the dust bunnies. Holding it up wasn’t as hard as I was expecting but probably too hard for someone with a shoulder/arm weakness. Love it.”

Key features:

• Up to 60 minutes of fade-free power
• Laser detects particles you normally can’t see
• Piezo sensor measures microscopic dust particles and adjusts suction power automatically
• LCD display screen
• Features Dyson’s Hyperdymium Motor for powerful suction
• Fully sealed filtration system

Also available at:

• $1499 at Dyson
• $1449 at David Jones
• $1449 at The Good Guys
• $1449 at Bing Lee

Shop Now

02

Dreame H12S AE Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner

$398.99 (usually $599), Amazon

This stick vacuum from Dreame works on both wet and dry surfaces, so you can get all your cleaning done in one go. You can choose between an auto mode that optimises power use and cleaning efficiency, a turbo mode for more intensive cleaning and a dry mode when you just want to use it as a vacuum cleaner. It’s also equipped with a smart sensor that detects and adapts to the various types of messes, and a self-cleaning mode for the brush roller.

“I researched for ages before deciding on this unit and I couldn’t be happier. I have limited mobility and this thing almost does it all by itself. I love that it does get close to edges and can get rid of the tougher grime spots. The self cleaning function is outstanding,” one Australian customer shared in a five star review on Amazon, where it has an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 3000 ratings. It’s also in Amazon’s Top 10 Best Sellers list for Upright Vacuums (ranked 6 when we checked) – the top vac-mop combo to make it on there. But its 25 minute run-time means it’s probably best suited to smaller spaces or spot-cleaning hard floors.

Key features:

• 2-in-1 vacuum and mop
• 25 minute run time
• Dual-tank design sufficient to clean up to 200 square metres without changing water tanks
• Hands-free self-cleaning cycle
• 2 year warranty

Shop Now

03

Dyson V8 Absolute vacuum cleaner

$409.99 (usually $799), Amazon

Powerful, lightweight, efficient and one of the more affordable Dyson stick vacuums on the market, the V8 Absolute is on many of our wishlists. It is engineered to pick up dirt, dust, and hair from carpets and hard floors, making it easy to maintain a clean home—and it’s currently on sale!

“High-performing portable vacuum, easy to use with plenty of power,” one Australian customer shared in a five star review on Amazon, where it has an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. It also has an average 4.4 star rating on Dyson Australia – from over 21,900 customers.

Key features:

• Transforms to handheld vacuum for cars and stairs
• Pet hair screw tool designed for pet owners
• No-touch bin emptying
• Whole-machine filtration

Also available at:

• $499 (usually $999) at Dyson

Shop Now

04

Dyson Gen5detect Absolute cordless vacuum

$899 (usually $1549), Amazon

The Gen5detect Absolute is another of Dyson’s highly-regarded cordless stick vacuum range and is Dyson’s most powerful HEPA cordless vacuum. It features advanced suction power, dust detection and data displayed on an LCD screen so you know when your floor is really clean. It also has a run time of up t0 70 minutes and a relatively light weight of 3.5kg.

Customers also love it, with an average of 4.7 stars from over 590 reviews on The Good Guys website.

“Love this vacuum, it’s awesome. I’m still shocked at how much dust and dirt this thing picks up. It does an amazing job, my floors have never been cleaner,” one customer shared in their five star review.

Key features:

• Transforms into a handheld in a simple click
• New single power button – say goodbye to trigger-holds
• Up to 70 minutes of run time
• Suitable for all floor types
• Intelligently adapts suction power to different floors
• Hair removal vanes automatically detangle hair from the brush bar
• Powerful suction energy with 14 scrolled cyclones
• No-touch dustbin emptying

Also available at:

• $988 at The Good Guys
• $899 (usually $1549) at Myer
• $997 (usually $1499) at Bing Lee

Shop Now

05

Miele Triflex HX2 cordless vacuum cleaner

$559 (usually $799), Amazon

Miele’s most powerful vacuum cleaner to date, with an extra long runtime (120 minutes, to be exact), is a versatile machine that is well worth considering. It has a 3-in-1 patented design where the power unit can be attached to the top or the bottom, meaning you can vacuum under low furniture and large areas effortlessly as well as go solo to vacuum car seats or the sofa.

“So easy to use and I love the way it just knows what floor type you’re vacuuming – (tiles, carpet or timber). You hear the tone change,” one Australian customer shared in a five star review on Amazon, where it has an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 49 customers. “Can’t quite believe how much it picks up too. Fairly easy to clean, although it did take sometime to work out how to remove the filter for cleaning. Probably more to do with our advancing years, and not being as strong as we used to be. Other than that, we’re more than happy with this purchase.”

Why we love it:

• Patented 3-in-1 design 
• Lightweight 
• 120 minutes of run time
• Wide brush head

Shop Now

More best cordless stick vacuums

06

LG A9 Kompressor auto emptying handstick vacuum

$1599, The Good Guys

Looking for an all-in-one solution for the home? Consider your search over. With hands-free emptying for less mess, housework becomes light work. The All-In-One tower automatically empties the dustbin when the vacuum is placed on the docking station to charge so no loose particles ever re-enter the air. 

“The vacuum is incredible for picking up fine dust that you didn’t even know was there! It’s amazing what it picks up. And the hot mop function is much easier than carting around a mop and bucket. Love it so much I bought one for each of my daughters,” one customer shared in a review on The Good Guys website, where it only has a handful of reviews but all of them are five stars. It also has an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 50 customers on both LG and Bing Lee.

Key features:

• Hands-free emptying
• 3-step filtration system
• Charging dock acts as a bin as well as storage for vacuum accessories
• Two interchangeable batteries included 
• Up to 120 minutes of run time
• Brushless Smart Inverter Motor 
• Kompressor technology compresses dust and hair collected in the bin to fit in more 
• ThinQ app compatibility 

Also available at:

• $1288 (usually $1599) at Bing Lee
• $1599 at LG

Shop Now

07

Kogan Z11 Pro cordless stick vacuum

$179, Kogan

For under $200, this cordless stick vacuum from Kogan is incredibly affordable without compromising on quality. It’s lightweight with its 2500Pa suction power and 400W brushless DC electric motor; sucking up pet hair is a breeze – making it the perfect model for those with furry friends.

It also has over 1000 customer ratings on Kogan and the majority (over 80%) are 4 or 5 stars. “Does every thing I expected it to do and more really well,” one customer shared in a five star review from December 2024, adding, “my partner was so impressed in the Z11 performance I ordered a second one for her to use and she is most impressed in how good it is for vacuuming her car.”

Why we love it:

• Lightweight design
• Powerful brushless DC motor
• Washable HEPA filter traps up to 99.97 per cent of fine dust and allergens
• Up to 52 minutes of run time
• Wall-mounted docking system

Shop Now

08

Kogan MX12 Pro cordless stick vacuum

$199, Kogan

As well as being relatively affordable compared to some other stick vacuums, this Kogan model is designed to efficiently suck up every last speck of dust. It features a powerful 30kPa of suction power, a washable HEPA filter that traps 99.97 per cent of fine dust and allergens, and a LCD screen that shows battery status, cleaning mode and more.

It also has over 200 reviews on Kogan, and over 90% of them are 4-5 stars. “It is very light, has good suction and the battery lasts longer than we expected,” said one customer in a five star review. “The dust collector is transparent and it’s easy to see when it needs emptying, which is also quite easy.”

Key features:

• 30kPa of suction power
• Washable HEPA filter
• 60 minutes of cleaning time
• 450W brushless DC electric motor

Shop Now

09

Samsung BESPOKE Jet Plus Complete cordless stick vacuum

$899, The Good Guys

Samsung’s BESPOKE Jet Plus Complete stick vacuum features a compact swivel head that lays flat, making vacuuming under the sofa a breeze. A highlight of this model has to be the elegant docking system – its sleek design relieves the need to hide it away in a cupboard or behind furniture.

While it only has a handful of customer reviews on The Good Guys website, 100% of them recommend it. As one happy customer shared in their five star review: “Just wow! It was actually very easy to put together and it just powers along in the house! Tiles, Lino, carpet and rugs – such power. So easy to clean you don’t really have to do a thing, and so many extra attachments it’s great!”

Why we love it:

• Integrated Clean Station empties dustbin without the mess
• Up to 120 minutes of run time
• Dual floor brush for carpets and hard floors
• 5 layered filtration system traps 99.999% of dust and allergens
• One touch button
• Elegant docking system

Also available at:

• $1299 at Bing Lee

Shop Now

Four factors that can help you find the best stick vacuum cleaner for your home

1. Battery life and charge times

As cordless stick vacuums are, well, cordless, you’ll need to consider the downtime needed to recharge. Depending on the area you want to use the vacuum for, consider how long you’ll need a charge to last – because there’s nothing worse than a vacuum that stops working midway through your cleaning routine. 

2. Capacity

Whether you’re using your cordless stick vacuum for the whole house, a designated area (i.e. your home office), or spot cleaning during the week, it’s important to have a vacuum cleaner with a big enough dustbin to clean the whole space. The same goes for water tanks if you choose a cordless vacuum-mop combo. Generally, the bigger the dustbin, the more convenient. However, it’s also important to consider how much ‘extra’ weight you want to carry around due to a larger dustbin. 

3. Floor-type suitability

If you have mixed flooring within your home, you’ll want to ensure your cordless stick vacuum has the capability to work efficiently on all surfaces or have different attachments to make this possible.

4. Vacuum accessories

Different rooms have their unique quirks. Maybe the master bedroom has a hard-to-reach corner, or maybe you’ve been dying to get rid of the dust lining the skirting board – having different attachments for every *unique* task will make cleaning easy breezy. 

The post The best stick vacuum deals in Amazon’s Big Smile sale for effortless cleaning appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Andrew Winter – real estate expert and host of Selling Houses Australia

1. What was your favourite house flip this season?

“That’s easy, Hastings [Episode 1]. The confusing multi household layout was completely off putting for the market. Homes that are successful as ‘dual’ living usually have the independent household areas designed to give privacy to both and generally favour a a larger and smaller combination. Rather than equal portions and a layout that made privacy more of a challenge which was the case in this quirky property. Plus for me I always love seeing young home owners grabbing the opportunity to buy their first home and then move up the ladder.”

2. Where are the most important places to spend money to ensure return on investment?

“If you are selling it is a challenge as you have to review the property as a whole. If you have a limited budget don’t spend it all in the kitchen, reduce the work there and spread the love. If it is your long term home, but you still are thinking ROI, it is kitchens and bathrooms as they are the big ticket items. But adding rooms, updating layouts etc can have equal if not more ROI.”

“The ideal time [to sell] is when homes like yours in your area are selling quickly and not many are on the market.”

Andrew Winter

3. How do you know when it’s time to sell up and walk away?

“Success selling is all about timing. Not the media hype about the market in general. It is about timing that suits your financial plans. You should always avoid distressed selling, such as falling behind with your home loan, or buying before you sell! Selling timing must suit you and ideally be at a point in the market cycle when your area and home type is in high demand with little stock.”

4. What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the Australian housing market over your 13 years hosting SHA?

“Apart from huge price gains? Yes it’s data, every buyer now has easy access to market research, what homes sold for and when. That’s a positive. A huge negative is the increase in unpriced properties. A sale method that used to be reserved for the unusual and the high end. Now it is a sneaky, lazy sale tactic that has spread like Covid across so many market sectors. Occasionally I can accept the method but it is currently used too much and buyers hate it.”

5. What do you love most about the Real Estate game?

“That’s simple, it’s the combination of getting to see homes and the people who live in them. I still get excited about every home I get to see, why did the owners buy it, why do they want to sell it. Have they maintained it, have they renovated, well or badly? What would I do to make it better? I have been connected residential real estate across four decades.Not many can claim to have looked around probably in excess 10,000 houses and apartments all across Australia, the UK and many parts of Europe.”

Wendy Moore – interior designer and host of Selling Houses Australia

What’s your proudest design moment for this season?

“I think one of the proudest moments was working with the team to create a fund and child-safe space in the Annandale terrace. There was an attic that was really difficult to access – and definitely not safe or easy for kids, and we came up with a way of connecting that huge area to the kids’ room directly below it. It was such a great project and I hope it inspires others with similar unused space in their home. The team sent me footage of the moment the kids saw the room and I had a little tear to see their excitement. That was a family who have gone through so much, so to create a little bit of joy was a career highlight.”

What was the biggest renovating challenge you were faced with?

“Every house is a challenge! A few that spring to mind was solving the completely terrible floorplan for the Engadine house – and wrestling the budget back from Dennis to make it happen! The kitchen was tiny and in completely the wrong place, so it wasn’t an easy fix – or a cheap one! The house in Alice Springs was a huge challenge, getting everything we needed in time to get the best result, and SO much painting to be finished in the week – and I’ll tell you, that house needed paint like no other I have seen!”

“Kitchen makeovers are definitely in the spotlight this year, and I had a huge variety of budgets to work with, so there are loads of ideas on giving your kitchen a fresh look, no matter your wallet size.”

Wendy Moore

Which was your favourite colour scheme?

“Anyone who knows me will tell you that my favourite scheme will always feature green, green, green. I find it so calming, so easy to live with. So I particularly love the scheme we used in the Castle Hill home. The scheme suited the setting, and I could feel my shoulders relax as soon as I walked in the rooms. But this season, I found some beautiful tiles that I was just desperate to use when I found the right house – and the Harrington Park home was finally the perfect opportunity. The tiles are a modern terracotta shade, and it inspired a beautiful, earthy scheme underpinned by soft blush tones – not quite pink, but very close! I absolutely love it and it’s my new favourite kitchen!”

Your top 3 tips we can steal from your renovations this season?

“Kitchen makeovers are definitely in the spotlight this year, and I had a huge variety of budgets to work with, so there are loads of ideas on giving your kitchen a fresh look, no matter your wallet size. New benchtops and handles can make an instant difference, having your cabinetry completely resprayed for a colour refresh is a great way to give a boost to a kitchen showing its age, I also completely ‘refaced’ kitchens, with new doors and panels, transforming it so completely it looks like an entirely new kitchen – there are so many ways to recreate this space, and I loved being able to try so many different approaches. There’s something for everyone.”

What’s your secret weapon for transforming a home on a budget?

“For me, the first step is always to identify the biggest problems, and then prioritise them. Try to keep it to three issues that need to be solved, it helps focus your budget and your time on the things that will make the biggest impact, on either your lifestyle, or on the value of your home. Number one: does the layout make sense for your lifestyle? Number two: how are your surfaces working? Start with your flooring – we often overlook how flooring can drive our colour schemes, and mismatched flooring interrupts the flow of a home, and can make it feel smaller and more cluttered – new flooring can solve an array of problems in one swift movement – and it definitely adds value to your home.”

Dennis Scott – landscape designer and host of Selling Houses Australia

What’s your proudest landscaping design moment for this season?

“Turning a small narrow space, Annandale episode into a show stopper packed with features like tiled outdoor areas, feature circles of turf and one of the coolest outdoor kitchens you have ever seen. Talk about packing a punch, this has it all.”

What was the biggest challenge you were faced with this year?

“Every property is a challenge. We have such a limited time to design and create spaces that are aesthetically pleasing to potential buyers. The biggest challenge I find is where to stop, where to refine just enough so it isn’t over the top and feeling like it is trying too hard. We need to focus on spaces that complement the property and have function. A bloody hard thing to do!”

“The biggest challenge I find is where to stop, where to refine just enough so it isn’t over the top and feeling like it is trying too hard.”

Dennis Scott

What are your favourite feature plants to deliver bang for your buck?

“Too many to choose, each space will dictate what plants are to be used. Sometimes a structure or a pot can be a feature on its own and the plant simply enhances the space.   You don’t have to follow trends. Remember, it’s your garden and if you like the plant and it’s suited to the conditions plant it!”

Your top 3 clever tips we can steal from your landscaping renovations this season?

“Keep things simple, mulch is the hero of the gardening world in my opinion and turf is the carpet of the outside world. These three things alone can transform a space into a great first impression.”

What’s your secret weapon for transforming a garden on a budget?

“Mulch, turf and some good old fashioned hard work and sweat.”

Where to watch Selling Houses Australia

Watch Selling Houses Australia season 17 at 8.30pm on Wednesdays on Foxtel or stream on BINGE.

The post Strap yourself in for another incredible season of Selling Houses Australia appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Afterpay Day for 2025 runs for four days, starting on March 20 and ending March 23, this year. Since time is of the essence, we’ll help you save a bit of time by listing out the best sales that are happening across the board for Afterpay Day this year – from homewares to furniture, outdoor entertaining, appliances and more.

Best Afterpay Day sales homes 2025

• Adairs: Save up to 50% on clearance
• Barbeques Galore: Up to 60% Off Outdoor Furniture at Barbeques Galore
• Bed Bath N’ Table: Flash sale up to 60% off
• David Jones: Up to 25% off selected new season fashion, shoes and accessories
• Ecosa: Save up to 35% OFF site wide
• EVA Sleep: Up to $325 off the Comfort Classic Mattress $110 off Timber Bed Frame up to $170 off
• Fantastic Furniture: Get up to 15% off selected bedroom products at Fantastic Furniture! Shop in-store or online
• Freedom: 30% off sitewide PLUS free local delivery. 1 day only. Online only*
• I Love Linen: Enjoy 25% off quilt covers & sheet sets, plus 10% off wear & dining collections
• Linen House: 20% off sitewide, minimum spend $200
• MYER: Up to 50% off selected dinnerware, glassware and more
• Pillow Talk: 30% off full priced items
• Spotlight: 30-50% off all cookware – Includes Tefal, Equip, Scanpan, Raco, Wiltshire and more!
• Temple & Webster: Up to 40% off selected items

Best Afterpay Day sales appliances and electronics 2025

• ANKER: Save up to 50%
• Appliances Online: Receive $75 Off* when you spend $750 or more at Appliances Online. Use code: APDAY75 at checkout
• Big W: 50% off selected Small Appliances – Online Only (e.g. iRobot Roomba, Phillips Airfryer, Russell Hobbs Toaster)
• Dyson: Save up to $550 on Dyson technology, including beauty products. Limited time only. PLUS
• eBay: Save 20%* with eBay Plus this Afterpay Day
• JB Hi-Fi: Spend over $300 & Get $30 OFF* use code AFTERPAY2025
• Kogan: Up to 65% off
• Nespresso: Enjoy 2 free Barista Cappuccino cups and free standard delivery when you order 160 capsules or more*
• Sony: Get $40 off* eligible orders over $300 when you use code: AFTERPAYDAY40 at checkout

What is Afterpay Day?

Afterpay Day is a bi-yearly sale organised by Afterpay in March and August that runs over three or four days. During the sale, participating retailers offer exclusive discounts and promotions from a wide range of categories from homewares to electronics, fashion and beauty.

When is the Afterpay Day for 2025?

Lucky for us, the first Afterpay Day sale is almost upon us. The Afterpay Day sale will run from 8am Thursday 20 March to Sunday 23 March. Dates for Afterpay Day in August will be released later in the year, so make sure you bookmark this tab to be the first one to know.

Do you need to use Afterpay to shop Afterpay Day sales?

You actually don’t need to use Afterpay to shop these sales – the choice is yours.

What are the best Afterpay Day deals?

The Afterpay Day sales will see up to 70% off thousands of products and experiences, from homewares to tech, travel and more. Brands we have our eyes set on include The Iconic, eBay, Dyson, Seed Heritage, Rebel Sport and more.

Make sure you bookmark this page to be the first to know on any specific sales and other participating retailers. Afterpay Day is the perfect opportunity to get your hands on the latest homewares, furniture, electronic, while also scoring some sweet savings.

The post Afterpay Day sales 2025: score up to 70% off homewares, furniture and appliances appeared first on Home Beautiful.

There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best bed frame for your home: size, style, and price, to name a few. How big of a bed frame do you need? Are you after the entire bed frame (bed base and headboard inclusive), or are you just after a headboard? Moreover, finding a style that suits your current bedroom interior style is just as important. 

Because finding a new bed frame is a mammoth task, we’ve decided to lighten the load for you – below, we’ve rounded up the best bed frames to invest in with style, quality and affordability in mind. So, if you’re ready to turn your master bedroom or guest bedroom into a sanctuary-like haven, read on. 

The best bed frames to shop in Australia

01

Emma Rosewood bed

from $850, Emma Sleep

Not only is this bed frame stylish, but it’s easy to assemble with its clip-in mechanism that allows you to have it all done in a matter of five short minutes. Crafted from responsibly-sourced wood in gorgeous deep brown hues of rosewood and neutral tan upholstery, it’ll fit seamlessly into any modern bedroom or guestroom.

Key features:

• Crafted from FSC-certified rosewood
• Easy clip-in mechanism – set up in 5 minutes
• FlexiSlats for ultimate support and flexibility

Shop Now

02

Castillo bed frame

from $1220 (usually $1425), Interior Secrets

Like sleeping on a cloud, the Castillo bed frame is upholstered in a Cloudy pepper boucle fabric with a low rectangular frame for a cosy sleep. The bed frame also comes in a Fossil Grey and Pearl Grey colourway, all offering a sense of calm to your space.

Key features:

• Constructed in an a durable engineered wood
• Fabric in a 81% polyester and 19% acrylic blend
• Available in 3 fabrics

Shop Now

03

Toorak vertical platform bed

from $1199 (usually $1599), Freedom

Wake up every morning feeling refreshed with the help of this sturdy bed frame from Freedom. Featuring vertical channel detailing that brings warmth and texture to your bedroom, it’s an ideal choice for those who want to make a style statement.

Key features:

• FSC certified timbers and Warwick fabric
• Made to order
• Available in 6 fabrics

Shop Now

04

Santorini Hamptons timber/rattan queen bed in white

$1473.75 (usually $1965), OneWorld

Featuring woven rattan panels in white for added texture, this bed frame from OneWorld will set the tone for any Hamptons-style bedroom. 

Key features:

• Woven rattan panels
• Bedhead and footboard detail

Shop Now

05

Dalton bed in Beach Linen

from $1299, Castlery

Subtly curved with a wingback-design headboard, this bed frame exudes a serene ambience to any room. Plus, its linen-look fabric finish will look right at home in any seaside abode.

Key features:

• Wingback headboard design
• Platform silhouette
• FlexiSlats for ultimate support and flexibility

Shop Now

06

Erikson queen upholstered bed in light grey and oak

$1199 (usually $1499), Lounge Lovers

This Erikson upholstered bed frame from Lounge Lovers is stylish, unique and sturdy. Perfect for Scandi-inspired interior schemes, pair it with vintage-washed linen sets to complete the look.

Key features:

• Solid European oak construction
• Earthy fabric upholstered backing
• 5-year frame warranty

Shop Now

Which bed frames are the strongest?

Bed frames can be made up of a combination of materials. Choosing a bed frame that is well constructed from durable materials will be key in finding one that will last you a long time.

These are the most common materials usually found in bedframes:

• Wood
• Metal
• Fabric

All of which are great materials when looking for a bed frame. Thick wooden or metal bases are durable and prevent your mattress from sagging. Upholstered bed frames add warmth and texture to your room while providing extra comfort – especially if you often sit up and read from your bed. Bed frames with upholstered bed heads are often filled with foam and fibre for extra cushioning.

Choosing the material from which your bed frame is made is personal. However, if you’re looking for one that is sturdy and strong – opting for a bed frame made from durable metal like steel is an excellent choice. Along with this, look out for a bed frame with a good amount of slats – in other words, it shouldn’t look sparse, and the gaps between the slats are no bigger than seven centimetres.

How much should I spend on a good bed frame?

The price of a bed frame can vary. But generally, you should expect to spend around $1000 – $1500. More luxurious models can be upwards of $2000.

The post Improve your sleep with the best bed frames for ultimate comfort, support and style appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The secret to spotless oven racks, in all honestly, is to clean them regularly enough that grease and grime doesn’t build up in the first place. Smaller oven racks can simply be placed in the dishwasher (you may have to remove the dishwasher basket to accommodate larger racks) on a hot cycle, while larger racks can be wiped down with hot soapy water and a non-scratch scour after each use.

Missed the boat on regular oven rack upkeep? That’s ok. It’s still possible to make your oven racks look as shiny as they did the day you first installed the oven. Here we run through 4 methods to make your oven racks shine, ranging from all-natural cleaners to more potent formulations. 

1. Bicarb soda and castile soap

Does the thought of soaking oven racks in harsh chemicals make you nervous? If you’d like to stick to non-toxic oven cleaners, reach for that $2 box of bi-carb soda to banish odours and dissolve grease, naturally. Simply dilute liquid castile soap (or an all natural dishwashing liquid like WashWild’s dishwashing liquid or Koala Eco’s lemon myrtle and mandarin essential oil dish soap) according to the product instructions in hot water, then add one cup of bi-carb soda to the mix. Place grimy oven racks in the solution and allow them to soak for an hour or overnight. Scrub with a non-scratch scour and rinse clean. 

To clean away any stubborn spots, create a paste using equal parts bi-carb soda and water, and apply directly to spots. Buff away with a soft cloth or non-scratch scour sponge. 

01

McKenzie’s bi-carb soda (1kg)

$3.95, Woolworths

A humble carton of bi-carb soda has so many uses around the home. It can dissolve baked on grease (like the kind you’ll find on oven racks), absorbing questionable odours while it works. When you’re not using it to clean the oven, you can use it to deoderise the fridge, unblock sink drains and scrub stains off stainless steel cookware. 

Shop Now

02

Biome Concentrated liquid castile soap (unscented)

$24.95, Biome

This Australian-made castile soap may be gentle on skin and hands, but makes a powerful all-purpose cleaner around the house. It will get your oven racks gleaming but can also be used around the home as laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid and combined with your favourite essential oil and water to make a gentle, eco-friendly all-purpose cleaning spray. Made from olive oil and contains zero additives, preservatives or synthetic fragrances. 

Shop Now

2. Put them out to pasture

It sounds like a prank, but apparently this method really does work. Clean oven racks without chemicals or breaking a sweat simply by placing them on the lawn overnight. Yes, really. The moisture released by the grass overnight will break down baked on grime so all you need to do in the morning is wipe it away with a soft cloth or sponge. 

03

Scour Daddy non-scratch scrub sponge (pack of 6)

$21, Amazon

Once you’ve finished soaking your oven racks, give it a good scrub with a non-scratch scour like this one by the company that brought us cult-cleaning products Scub Daddy and Scrub Mommy. This scour pad is great because it will buff away stubborn stains without leaving scratches behind. It’s also odour resistant and the firmness of the sponge changes depending on whether you’re cleaning with hot or cold water. 

Shop Now

04

Euroscrubby

$4.99, Harris Scarfe

Euroscrubby cloths are excellent at buffing and scrubbing away grime. They’re made from cotton that’s coated with special resin that lifts dirt and stains without etching the surface you’re cleaning. 

Shop Now

3. The bathtub method

If you have a large, or double oven, you may not be able to fit the oven racks in the kitchen sink. This is where a bathtub can come in handy. But, before you try any of these methods, protect the bottom of the bathtub with a towel to prevent scratches. Here are some ways to make oven racks sparkle using a bathtub: 

Natural

Place oven racks in the bath tub. Sprinkle oven racks with a generous amount of bi-carb soda and fill the tub with hot water until the racks are just covered, adding a few squirts of natural dishwashing liquid into the bath as it fills. Soak the racks overnight before scrubbing and rinsing clean. 

Dishwashing tablets

Place the oven racks in the bathtub and fill with enough hot water to cover the racks. Dissolve a dishwashing tablet in the water. Allow the oven racks to soak for an hour or overnight before scrubbing and rinsing clean. 

Alternate version: Wrap oven racks in aluminium foil and place a dishwashing tablet inside the foil. Place the foil-covered racks in the bath and fill with hot water until the racks are submerged. Allow to soak overnight before carefully unwrapping the aluminium foil, and scrubbing and rinsing clean. The aluminium foil is thought to increase the shine of the racks and prevent rust spots. 

Napisan or laundry boost powder

Place the oven racks in the bathtub and fill with enough hot water to cover the racks. Sprinkle a scoop of Napisan all over the oven racks. Allow the oven racks to soak for an hour or overnight before scrubbing and rinsing clean. 

An unattended, filled bath tub can pose a drowning risk for young children. Take care when using this method for cleaning oven racks.

Safety tip

05

Dishwasher tablets (50 pack)

$18.47 (usually $23.09), Ecostore

Dishwashing tablets aren’t just for your dishwasher! Unleash their cleaning power by dissolving one tablet in hot water and soaking the oven racks overnight. These tablets by Ecostore are made using plant and mineral-based ingredients and are oxygen-boosted to remove even the toughest baked-on stains. Free from phosphates, synthetic dyes, synthetic perfumes and polyethylene glycols. 

Shop Now

06

Vanish Napisan oxi action fabric stain remover powder (3kg)

$23.50, Big W

A good old tub of Napisan can be used for more than just making oil and stains on your laundry completely disappear. You can use it to banish baked on fat and food from your oven racks by dissolving a scoop in hot water and allowing the oven racks to soak in the solution overnight. It’s also great for brightening tile grout and deoderising your wheelie bin.

Shop Now

4. Heavy duty oven cleaners

Really done a number on your oven racks? Heavy duty cleaners can strip away all manner of sins and make even the most charred, grimy racks look brand new. Ozkleen Oven Power is a cult-favourite cleaning product you can find at your local supermarket for under $10. It’s powerful, but it does the job. Make sure you wear protective clothing and eyewear, and follow the instructions on the label. 

07

Ozkleen Oven Cleaner Power Kit

$4.80 (usually $9.60), Woolworths

Head to any online cleaning forum and you’re bound to see one oven cleaning product recommended time and time again: OzKleen’s Oven Power. You’ll need to don a pair of extra-long gloves before handling it (and be wary of the strong fumes) but the no-scrub sparkle it achieves will satisfy even the toughest rental inspection. 

Shop Now

08

Selleys Oven Plus Heavy Duty Gel

$7, The Good Guys

Don’t want to deal with harsh fumes but want a cleaner that just gets the job done? Selley’s products are trusted for a reason, and their heavy duty oven gel is no exception. Simply apply the gel to a warm oven as well as the racks and allow the product to stand for 30 minutes before wiping away with a damp cloth or non-scratch scour. Rinse product from surfaces thoroughly. 

Shop Now

The post How to clean oven racks so they sparkle like new appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

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

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

1. Have an offering when guests arrive

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

2. Take something everyday and elevate it a little bit

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

3. An organised space is an organised mind

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

4. The forgotten fun of board games

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

5. Simple ingredients can be truly special

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

6. Throw perfection out the window

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

7. Love is in the details

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

Catch every episode of With Love, Meghan on Netflix.

The post 7 simple ideas worth stealing from With Love, Meghan appeared first on Home Beautiful.

So, how do you decide which stone looks best in your kitchen? We asked the experts for their advice on the current trends and explored the positives of choosing stone in your kitchen.

1. Matching stone splashback

Stone has long been used for benchtops and is beginning to creep up the walls in a bold new trend. For a show-stopping display of the details inherent to stone, this easy-care finish is now taking the spotlight and doing double duty on matching splashbacks in modern kitchen design. Subtle colour variations, prominent veining and bespoke design morphs stone and marble seamlessly into cabinetry. How much does a stone splashback cost? Like the pricing of stone benchtops, the cost of a stone splashback varies with your choice of stone, its thickness and the size of the slab needed to fit your application.

2. Waterfall finish

Whether a by-product of the banning of engineered stone in July 2024, or the fact the properties of natural stone stands it apart from other surfaces, it has been a go-to surface for benchtops in Australian homes for decades. Continuing a stone benchtop down the sides to create a waterfall kitchen island is a design feature that is still very much on trend, particularly in high-end and contemporary kitchen design, though it’s important to soften the look with other design elements, as seen in the striking kitchen design created by interior designer Swee Lim, below. “Offset the solidity of stone by pairing it with cabinetry in bold tones, set atop timber flooring to create warmth in contemporary design,” suggests Swee, who used Neolith stone to frame the kitchen island. “The waterfall benchtop creates a sleek, minimalist, and sophisticated aesthetic, enhancing the space with its elegant and modern appeal,” Swee explains.

3. Solid stone kitchen island

Known for its luxurious aesthetic, marble can elevate any look in an instant. Drama and luxury can be achieved with a solid stone kitchen island, as seen in the kitchen, below, where interior designer and The Block judge Darren Palmer has used CDK Stone’s Monreale marble to stunning, statement-making effect. “It’s very, very beautiful,” says Darren, who revolved the colour palette around the naturally-occuring pinkish-beige tones. “Look for a material that has a balanced distribution of movement across the slab,” advises CDK Stone director Tony Victor.

“Nothing says luxury like a marble kitchen island,” says Costa Voulgarakis, sales manager at Euro Marble. “It’s an ideal feature for the heart of the home, providing both functionality and opulence. And, while the mere addition of marble benchtops is enough to uplift the aesthetics of your kitchen, pairing it with a matching marble splashback rounds off the design.” Marble is a classic stone that suits any kitchen, be it country, contemporary, Hamptons or otherwise, but it does require extra care. “Due to its porous nature, it is susceptible to scratching, marks and chipping,” explains Costa. “But marble definitely isn’t difficult to maintain at all.” And Costa argues the extra work is worth it. “Marble always has a variety of striations and veining that are unique to each slab – and that’s the beauty of the material,” he says.

Marble is actually a ‘green’ choice to make. “Marble and natural stone require no chemical processing, which means there are no toxic waste products associated with the construction of a new kitchen, or any emission of harmful gasses,” explains Costa Voulgarakis, sales manager at Euro Marble.

TIP:

While marble is easy to care for, be sure to factor in extra costing above installation for finishing to preserve the surface. “I always recommend marble be sealed properly upon installation by the stone contractor,” says Costa. “This will prevent liquids and other accidental spills from soaking in and being absorbed, causing stains.”

The post 3 kitchen stone trends we’ll see in 2025 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Sitting on 1,030 sqm of absolute beachfront at 291 Golden Four Drive, the property is a world away from the old beach shacks that once stood on the site when Mick bought it for $3.25 million in 2011. By 2014, he had built the current home – a stunning modern retreat that seamlessly blends relaxed coastal living with practical design. Then, in 2022, it underwent a major makeover at the hands of Three Birds Renovations, the powerhouse design trio known for their dreamy, light-filled transformations.

Bonnie Hindmarsh, Lana Taylor and Erin Cayless were given “full creative control – and their trust”, according to Lana, who reflected on the project with House & Garden. The result? A serene, stylish sanctuary designed to make the most of its spectacular beachfront position, with breezy open-plan living spaces, natural textures, and soft, sandy hues that echo the surrounding coastline.

The property itself is spread over three levels, offering seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, including a self-contained guesthouse – perfect for visitors or extended family. With floor-to-ceiling windows framing uninterrupted ocean views, multiple entertaining spaces and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, ‘Rolling Seas’ is the epitome of laid-back luxury.

Mick and Breeana, who share two young children – Xander who was born in 2020 and Lyla in 2024 – have loved their time in the home but are now looking ahead to the next chapter.

Listed with Kollosche agent Troy Dowker, the property is set to go under the hammer at 11 am on April 24. With its prime location, meticulous design and Three Birds magic, ‘Rolling Seas’ is sure to turn heads – just like its famous owner has done for years in the surf.

To stay up to date with the sale of Mick Fanning’s holiday house, see the real estate listing.

The post Surfer Mick Fanning’s Three Birds-renovated beach house is up for grabs appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

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

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

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

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

1. Low quality construction materials

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

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

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

2. Indoor air pollution

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Dysfunctional layouts

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

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

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

4. Lack of character and personality

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to personalise your new build

5. Unsustainable designs

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

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

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

Julian Brenchely, Principal Architect, Group Architects

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

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

6. Lack of outdoor space

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

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

7. Remote location

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

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

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

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

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

While little fans may know Meg best for her soft, sing-song voice in the classroom, she’s also an ARIA award-winning singer-songwriter. And this home has played a starring role in her own creative journey – it’s where she penned two films and two albums.

But a new chapter is calling. The couple is making a permanent move to the Gold Coast for work opportunities. “Brisbane will always be my home,” Meg shared in a press release. “My family is here. But I’m looking forward to spending more time on the Gold Coast among our film community.”

That means parting ways with their charming Art Deco treasure. The two-bedroom, top-floor apartment offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Brisbane River and the iconic Story Bridge.

Built in 1936, it’s rich in history, boasting high ornate ceilings, patterned cornices, timber floors and classic casement windows.

The real-estate listing for 6/87 Moray Street calls it an “opportunity to own an extraordinary piece of Brisbane’s architectural legacy”. But for Bluey fans, it might just be a chance to own a slice of the magic. Either way, this apartment is a rare find.

Anyone who watched the special Bluey episode where the Heeler family nearly sold their iconic Queenslander knows it was an emotional ride. No doubt Meg will take comfort in her alter ego Calypso’s wise words: “Everything will work out the way it’s supposed to.”

For more details on Bluey voice actor Meg Washington’s home, visit the real estate listing.

The post This Bluey character is saying goodbye to her charming Art Deco home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Inside the kitchen renovation

The starting point in the kitchen renovation was to remove cabinetry that divided the cooking and living zones, and to replace windows and a single portal with custom arched doors by Sydney Steel Gallery. There’s now a sense of openness, light and views. “The kitchen is visible as soon as you walk into the home, so we wanted it to have a strong presence but not be too colourful or too plain,” says Nadia. “We also didn’t want to overcrowd it, so we left out overhead cabinets and instead let the materials speak for themselves.”

Benchtop materials

During the kitchen renovation, Nadia chose custom-stained oak veneer joinery and Brescia marble benchtops and splashbacks for its opulent veining and hues. “Overall, the marble is white with varying shades of grey running through the stone, as well as soft creams and burgundy,” she explains. “We selected the burgundy portion for the curved island feature so there was a hint of colour below the eye level.” Brass integrated handles and exposed framing details deliver further depth and texture.

How to treat timber beams

The existing structural beams were stained dark red. This felt heavy in the space. “We experimented with different methods of removing the dark stain from the beams and came across a process called soda blasting, which was extremely fast and rewarding,” says Nadia. This restored them to their natural state, then finished in a neutral matt lacquer. The beams now contribute another timber highlight that complements the original oak flooring and new cabinetry.

The kitchen island

The kitchen’s central feature is the stylish island in custom-stained, crown cut oak veneer from Brigg Veneers, topped in striking Calacatta Brescia marble. Touches of brass also appear, courtesy of integrated lip pulls and a gooseneck sink mixer, all Faucet Strommen.

Arched details

The design team introduced curved notes, such as in the edging of the island benchtop and splashback trim. “The existing bones of the house included curves, which can be seen in the French doors and original curved nooks built into the wall,” says Nadia. “The arched features integrate the old with the new. We didn’t want the space to be super modern, and the curves bring back some classic but enticing elements.” A downdraft in the V-Zug induction cooktop from Winnings avoided the need for an overhead extractor, which could have detracted from the splashback.

Adding storage in the kitchen renovation

Good storage is key to good kitchen design, and in this space shelving and display areas help break up a solid run of cabinetry. Nadia also points to the necessity of understanding how the room will be used by its owners. “This ensures there is easy movement within the space, and that the kitchen remains uncluttered and functional,” she says of the circulation and flow. A ‘Cuisine 68’ fireclay sink from Turner Hastings is a practical but unobtrusive addition to the island bench. Functional beauty is also in the details; here, a knife block becomes an integral part of the cutlery drawer

Interior design: Blue Tea Kitchens & Bathrooms, bluetea.com.au.

Source book

The post Kitchen renovation tips: All the design details that lead to success appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“The size of the home was what we were looking for, but we felt the interiors needed a refresh,” says Leah. “However, when looking to renovate previous homes, we discovered interior design was not either of our strengths.” To usher in the warm ambience that they love in a layered modern house, the couple tasked interior designer Lily Cumberland with its transformation, which then unfolded over several years and staged phases.

Who lives here?

Leah, Trent and the couple’s three-year-old Toy Poodle, Lottie.
What was your approach to furnishings?
Leah: “Moving from a small apartment, we didn’t have enough furniture to fill the space, so we had to start afresh to achieve the consistency in look and feel that we wanted throughout the house.”
Favourite weekend rituals?
“We enjoy having friends over on the weekends. A lot of them love heading downstairs to select a wine from the new wine storage area! When not entertaining, we like reading and soaking up the sun on our daybed.”
Any flow-on effects from the redesign?
“The level of finishes means that it takes a fancy hotel room a lot more to impress!”

The modern house renovation

Starting at the ground floor, moving to the first level then finishing with the under-house zone and studio, Lily gutted and reimagined the entire interior from 2018 to 2024. “The main goal was clear: we needed to shift the space from feeling like a cold, commercial office building to something that was warm, welcoming, and truly felt like home,” she says. And just like that, the warm modern house makeover began.

Out went the generic square-tiled flooring as well as the heavy stainless steel balustrade (“it didn’t exactly make the space feel warm or inviting,” says Lily). And in came a chorus of natural materials, organic shapes and colour. “Trent and Leah were open to incorporating pink tones throughout – something I was absolutely thrilled about since it’s one of my favourite colours,” she says. Finally, Lily demolished walls for better flow in the kitchen, relocated the laundry, carved out new breakout rooms and storage spaces, and even redesigned the main ensuite to frame iconic views of the Anzac Bridge.

“We’ve always admired homes that have thoughtfully mixed textures and colours, and wanted to achieve that here”

Leah

To Leah and Trent’s delight, they can now entertain, work from home and relax in style, both indoors and out. However, the best part is that for the first time since they picked up the keys, their house finally feels like home.

Foyer

Nestled between the new gym, garage and cellar is the lower-ground foyer, where both a Coco Republic console and sconces add drama to the ‘Scarpa’ floor tiles from Surface Gallery.

Dining area

A Tappeti ‘Faded Neon’ rug in Fog grounds Coco Republic chairs as well as a Zuster ‘Stella’ table in Coal Oak in the dining area. Lily also decorated the soaring atrium with an original artwork by Charmaine Pwerle.

Living room

“We wanted a blend of modern and classic,” says Leah. A custom Tappeti rug and Coco Republic coffee table strike a colourful chord in the living area beside Arthur G ‘Mondo’ sofas and a ‘Lunar’ armchair. The James Said ‘Astro’ bookshelf and Timothy Oulton ‘Light Wheel’ pendants add an edgy twist to the room, which bathes in filtered light from Mokum ‘Kensho’ sheers in Oyster.

Studio

Monochrome appears throughout the scheme of this modern house. “Trent and Leah had some truly striking, bold art pieces,” says Lily. Works from Coco Republic hang in the studio, and tie in with the couple’s old vintage sofa plus its new counterpart and marble coffee table, both Coco Republic. The rug is Tappeti.

Studio ensuite

All bathrooms in this modern house were redesigned, even the ensuite in the studio. Here, Coco Republic lighting, Carrara marble wall mosaics from Surface Gallery, an ‘Issy’ shaving cabinet from Reece and Parisi basin complete the look.

Kitchen

Smartstone benchtops, Eveneer cabinetry from Elton Group and Coco Republic bar stools were all essential ingredients in the kitchen scheme for Lily.

Butler’s pantry

Hidden off the kitchen is the butler’s pantry, which has upper joinery in Resene Foggy Grey as well as lower V-groove cupboards in Resene Alabaster.

Main bedroom

One of Lily’s favourite features is the run of Mokum ‘Handloom’ curtains in Silk that river through the main bedroom. “There was a bit of hesitation from Trent and Leah about this choice, but I’m so glad they trusted me,” she shares, “the curtains bring an incredible texture.” The 1.8-metre Arteriors mirror from Boyd Blue is another standout. “It wasn’t just a challenge to get it into the space, it was a whole ordeal to hang! But it completely transformed the room, balancing the asymmetrical pitch of the vaulted ceiling, and it reflects the city skyline views from both sides of the bedroom.” Lamps from Boyd Blue team with a tactile area rug from Tappeti to warm up the space.

Walk-in robe

It wouldn’t be a modern house without a spacious walk-in robe. Mokum ‘Handloom’ curtains in Silk lend an ethereal element to the couple’s walk-in robe.

Ensuite

Metallic accents in the Brodware ‘City Plus’ tapware in Roma Bronze and sculptural pendants from Coco Republic both introduce an air of opulence to Leah and Trent’s ensuite. Joinery in warm-toned Polytec Ravine in Natural Oak harmonises beautifully, while the Apaiser ‘Sapphire’ bath and ‘Sentosa’ basin, both from Candana, act as subtle palette cleansers. “One of the standout features was the Viola marble in the bathrooms – that really took the space to the next level and brings an element of luxury,” says Lily. “The stunning veining and rich red tones make a bold statement and instantly elevate the entire room. It’s one of those materials that feels timeless and adds such depth and character.”

We love… balanced budgets

“We splurged on marble in the various bathrooms as well as certain joinery, lighting fixtures and luxury curtains for the primary bedroom,” shares Leah. “Lily helped us find a mix of affordable tiling in certain areas to offset the cost of the marble.” Viola marble slabs from Surface Gallery star in the vanity and ledge in the couple’s ensuite, while larger, more budget-friendly ‘Aspect’ tiles in White and Carrara ‘Stack’ mosaics clad the remaining space in style.

Alfresco

“We are able to work from home a lot more comfortably than we were used to, which gives us a lot more flexibility in how we manage work and life,” says Leah. “We also enjoy the main floor and outside terraces, which allows for easy entertaining from the butler’s pantry to the kitchen, through to our outside terrace.” Sited above the redesigned studio, the outdoor terrace is bedecked with comfortable alfresco finds from Globe West as well as Coco Republic. Beyond the lush border of greenery and charming rooftop views glints the Sydney skyline, which glows golden at sunset.

Interior design: Lily Cumberland Interior Design, lilycumberland.com.

Builder: Fulcrum Building, fulcrumbuilding.com.au.

Source book

The post A modern house with heart and soul in Sydney’s Inner West appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“Ryan had found 20 acres that he insisted we drive by to take a look, even though it was way out of our price range,” recalls Danielle of their property search. “I humoured him and while we were making our way back to the ring road, we drove through this area. It was beautiful. I said to Ryan, ‘Why not here?’. We finally knew where we wanted to be.”

Who lives here?

Danielle, an IT consultant, Ryan, a chemical plant technician, his daughters Bonnie, 16, twins Charlotte and Rose, 14, and the couple’s kids Sully, seven, and Edie, five.

Which areas get the most use? Danielle: “The sitting room is where you’ll find Ryan playing the piano or bass guitar with the fire going. The girls love spending time in there lying by the fire on cold evenings, and Sully and Charlotte often play chess there. The kitchen/dining/living area is always alive with activity – it’s never still.”
Favourite room? “My bedroom is like a luxury hotel; I feel spoilt being able to go to sleep in such a beautiful room.
Best building tip? “Don’t underestimate the length of time it can take to plan and get approval. We naively thought we’d be in our new home in mid-2022 and we eventually moved in during mid-2023.”

A search for suitable houses came to naught, so the couple turned their sights to the sole parcel of land in the area for sale– a steeply sloped site that Danielle says “scared off” other buyers with its gradient. Undeterred, they forged ahead in late 2020 and enlisted architect Gary McFarlane and builder McInnes Homes to design and build their dream home.

Initially, Danielle seized the opportunity of working with a blank canvas to channel the style she loved – a handsome, not-quite-Hamptons aesthetic. However, when faced with the sheer scale of selections, let alone layering different fabrics and finishes, the allure soon wore off.

“Trying to pick every single fixture and fitting ourselves was not only going to be extremely time consuming, but also daunting and risky,” she says. “I felt we were either going to end up with a completely white home, because it was safe, or that I would make some bad choices. I needed help!”

The help in question arrived with the experienced eye of interior designer Katherine Lillie, who immediately understood the “masculine Hamptons” aesthetic Danielle envisaged. “The images I sent Katherine as inspiration were mostly navy or green and brass,” she says. “I recall saying in my initial email, ‘Some of it may seem a bit out there’.”

The palette was set in the kitchen after Danielle spotted the colour that now cloaks the cabinetry and the quartzite slab that graces the benchtops. “When I saw it, I didn’t look at another piece,” she says. “As we walked past this piece, it jumped out at me and I was immediately in love with it. I had to have it!”

Hinting at Hamptons style, wainscoting and wall panelling followed, which Katherine dressed in moody blues, a forest of greens and splashes of pattern, to the delight of the family who moved into their new sanctuary in mid-2023. “We love everything about our finished home, the result has been better than we ever expected,” shares Danielle.

Kitchen

Starting with the kitchen, we chose a dark colour palette that exudes sophistication and has an edge of vibrant, moody atmosphere,” says Katherine. “The cabinetry paint colour, Porter’s Paints French Slate, influenced our selection of fabrics, unique tiles and fittings for the rest of the house.” The palette is reflected in stormy Copacabana quartzite benchtops from Gladstones Granite & Marble and underscored by engineered oak floors in Silky Grey from Victorian Designer Floors.

“We spend much of our time in the kitchen and laundry, so made key design decisions to support us in being able to multitask,” says Danielle. “We wanted to ensure we could cook dinner and get the washing done at the same time.” To facilitate this, the kitchen and laundry are linked via the butler’s pantry, which is tucked behind the kitchen splashback and decorated with an Alison Percy artwork that peeps out from the entrance.

Katherine chose ‘Meca’ tiles in Snow from Perini to keep the splashback neutral. On the island, a Perrin & Rowe ‘Phoenician’ mixer from The English Tapware Company echoes the brass Kelly Wearstler pendants above, sourced from The Montauk Lighting Co. The Roman blinds from The Awning and Blind Co are in Nettex ‘Soho’ fabric in Smoke.

Living room

The colours in the kitchen flow into the formal living room (this page & opposite), where a Coco Republic sofa and occasional chairs are resplendent around a cluster of Globe West coffee tables. The cushions from Canvas + Sasson pick up hues in the artwork from Cafe Lighting & Living. “Our goal was to create a timeless residence suitable for a large family, characterised by a masculine, dark and moody atmosphere,” says Katherine of the palette.

“We wanted the home to have a classic and timeless feel, but also contemporary at the same time.”

Danielle, homeowner.

Bedrooms

Thibaut ‘Lewis’ fabric in Charcoal and Bluestone stars on the couple’s bedhead, joined by cushions covered in a Katherine Lillie Interiors textile and Warwick ‘Plush’ fabrics in Vine and Navy. Cafe Lighting & Living ‘Candace’ stools offer a perch at the foot of the bed, while a woollen ‘Magic’ rug in Storm from The Rug Collection is warm underfoot on chilly Melbourne mornings.

“Edie loves her bedroom, she calls it her princess room,” says Danielle of her daughter’s sweet space. Thibaut ‘Chatelain’ wallpaper in Pink unites the colours in the bespoke bedhead, upholstered in Métaphores ‘Atlas’ in Opale, and the wainscoting in Porter’s Paints Pretty in Pink. The bedlinen and lamp base are from Canvas + Sasson and the framed ‘Pink Sweet Pea’ print is from Narissa Perks.

“When it came to the children’s bedrooms, we embraced a more playful and individualised approach,” says Katherine, who wanted each room to “set a scene and a story”.

Bathrooms

A good blend makes sure things don’t feel too stuffy and formal,” says Danielle of the balance between classic and contemporary styles in the main ensuite. The space is warmed by brass Hepburn Hardware handles, Perrin & Rowe tapware and sconces from The Montauk Lighting Co. For cohesion with the kitchen, the vanity is Copacabana quartzite.

WE LOVE…mingling motifs

Mixed motifs abound in the main ensuite, with elongated ‘Long Oct’ Carrara marble floor tiles from Perini and walls veiled in the touchme texture of herringbone marble mosaics (for similar, try ‘Castro White’ tiles from National Tiles). By keeping the tones similar yet varying the tile patterns, Katherine infused the bathroom with tactile interest. For details, visit nationaltiles.com.au and perini.com.au.

“Danielle’s aim was to infuse the home with depth and character…it led us to experiment with patterns and go all out on the finishes.”

Katherine, interior designer.

Mudroom and laundry

The family’s five children have ample storage in the mudroom. Painted in Dulux Sapphire Stone and fitted with joinery in Polytec Oxford, the banquette adds a plush touch with Thibaut ‘Cornelia’ fabric in Navy.

“We focused on practical things like having spaces for school bags, a drying cupboard in the laundry and built-in laundry baskets,” says Danielle of the busy washing zone. Surrounded by plenty of concealed joinery in Polytec Polar White, the Fisher & Paykel washer and dryer from Harvey Norman withstand the constant use with ease and a long benchtop ensures there’s plenty of room to tackle the folding.

Interior design Katherine Lillie Interiors, katherinelillieinteriors.com.au
Architect Gary McFarlane & Associates Architects, 0408 396 011
Builder McInnes Homes, mcinneshomes.com.au

Source Book

The post A bold blue new build becomes home to a blended family of seven appeared first on Home Beautiful.

What’s so special about De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next?

The De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next is a fully automated machine, which is perfect for those who want quick and easy, specialty made coffee at home. The machine sits in the higher end of the entry tier for automatic machines, however performs like a mid-high tier machine. This coffee machine is great for busy parents, or those who have long morning commutes and desire a quick pick-me-up before the day starts. It is also fully customisable with 13 drink options and can store three user profiles. Plus, if you’re like me and find milk frothing an impossible task, the machine features a carafe for perfectly frothed milk at the touch of a button.

De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next features and size

• Size: 240 x 440 x 360 mm
• Weight: 9.6 kg
• Milk carafe with LatteCrema Hot Technology
• 3 user profiles for advanced personalisation
• Soft touch buttons
• 2.4′ TFT colour display
• Twin shot
• Can use beans and pre-ground coffee
• Programmable water hardness
• Water filter included

How to use the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next

You will need to put some time aside to set up your coffee machine and to give it all the attention it deserves. The machine set up is made easy with an instructional display that will guide you through every step of the process.

On first use, it will guide you through a standard setup. This includes filling the water tank, running through a rinsing cycle, and testing the water hardness level. You also have the option to install a water filter, which is included in the box. While a lengthy process, the instructions are detailed and you have the option to go back to previous instructions in case you missed a step. You only need to go through this process once, and then you’re all set!

At first use, the De’Longhi machine recommends making 4-5 coffees before drinking to obtain the ideal result in a cup. Use this as an opportunity to play around with size and intensity to see what you like best. The machine also has an option to use pre-ground coffee instead of beans. Once you find a coffee setting that you like best, you have the option to save this profile for future use.

As for beans, I used the Dhuwa Coffee Beans Kickstart Blendfrom Woolworths, however De’Longhi have their own signature and specialty blends that you can purchase.

Results from our test

As someone who doesn’t have a lot of time in the morning, I loved using the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next for a quick and easy coffee before my commute. I found the display beginner-friendly, and the machine easy to use. After many coffees – and a lot of caffeine – I found myself buzzing with excitement after every brew.

It took me around 10 coffees to figure out what settings I liked to use and to create my user profile. I don’t have anyone else in my household who likes coffee, but there are two more user profiles available if that changes, or if I feel like shaking things up a little bit. Plus, with 13 drink options, variety is just a button away!

Ultimately, the whole coffee making process takes around three minutes, including the machine warm up and clean up process. As for physical labour, I spent at most 30 seconds with the machine, including turning on and off the machine, choosing my coffee profile and filling the carafe with milk. This meant the rest of the time was reserved for cleaning and putting my energy into other tasks. I found this process so much more beneficial for my time compared to using a manual coffee machine which needed a lot of time and attention to make the perfect coffee.

The machine itself is wider than a standard pod machine but still small enough to fit on most kitchen benches., Those with small kitchen spaces like myself might not benefit from such a long machine taking up their island space. Gratefully, I have my own separate coffee table set-up (I highly recommend this, you’ll feel like your own personal barista) so it wasn’t an issue for me. I would also recommend keeping a container nearby as the machine expels water before and after use. If you do forget however, the machine will let you know when the drip tray is ready to be emptied.

Overall, is the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next worth it?

Absolutely. While the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next is a large machine, if you have the space, this machine is going to be a gamechanger for your home. It has already saved me so much time and money as I no longer need to buy coffee’s out. Plus, the barista-style results are a delicious bonus.

Where to buy the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next

The De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next is exclusively available online. Normally priced at $1,149, De’Longhi is offering it to our readers for just $899. Simply use the code “HOME” at checkout.

• Magnifica Evo Next, price $899 (usually $1149), De’Longhi

The post I was hopeless at making coffee, until I found the perfect machine appeared first on Home Beautiful.

But what if we told you that keeping your furniture fresh and spotless doesn’t have to be a challenge? In fact, all you need to do is invest in an upholstery steam cleaner.

This appliance works like magic at lifting stubborn stains, eliminating germs and refreshing fabric without harsh chemicals.

To help you out, we’ve rounded up the best upholstery steam cleaners for every need, from heavy-duty appliances for deep cleaning to compact models for small spaces. No matter your budget, these top-rated picks will help restore your furniture to like-new condition.

The best upholstery steam cleaners to shop in Australia in 2025

01

Bissell SpotClean Turbo + Antibac

$379, Betta

Bissell is the go-to brand when it comes to upholstery cleaning — and the SpotClean Turbo + Antibac is their most powerful portable model (backed by many five-star reviews). The Heatwave Technology helps to maintain a constant water temperature throughout the cleaning process, while its super suction power and scrubbing action really digs deep so even the most embedded dirt and stubborn stains can be removed.

“Great for spots on chairs and great on carpet even high pile carpet,” one five-star customer wrote.

Another person confirmed, saying: “This little machine is amazing with the cleaning fluid it lifted stains that have been in the carpet for years and two professional cleans did not remove, I am impressed.”

Weight: 5.8kg

Power: 750W

Capacity: 2.8L clean tank, 2.2L dirty tank

Key features:

• Suitable for carpet and upholstery
• Long-reaching 6.7-metre power cord
• Comes with a selection of brushes and tools
• Uses antibacterial formula to control odour-causing bacteria
• Two-year warranty

Also available at:

• $449 from Amazon
• $447 from Appliances Online

Shop now

02

Bissell SpotClean 36984

$243.03 (usually $269), Amazon

This compact and lightweight cleaning machine from Bissell easily tackles everyday messes, allowing you to get on with what’s more important. Its slimline design also lets you easily store it in your laundry or cleaning cupboard when not in use. But despite its petite size, it features a large 1.09-litre removable water tank so you can get to cleaning for a longer time without having to continuously empty and refill it.

“Such an easy-to-use system that worked a treat on my couch…amazing results,” commented one of the hundreds of five-star reviewers.

Weight: 3.86kg

Power: 330W

Capacity: 1L

Key features:

• Comes with Oxy Boost cleaning formula (236ml) and Spot & Stain formula (236ml)
• Included large and small tough stain tools
• Slim-line design
• 1.3m hose and 5m power cord
• Soft-grip handle for easy carrying
• Heatwave technology
• Two-year warranty

Also available at:

• $249 from Betta
• $247 from Kogan.com

Shop now

03

Hoover CleanSlate SpotWasher carpet cleaner

$249, The Good Guys

Hoover has served homeowners for decades, delivering sparkling results in the bathroom, bedroom and living spaces. So, when it comes to getting the mess off upholstery and carpets around the home, the award-winning CleanSlate Spot Cleaner model is your best bet.

You can clean large areas with fewer passes using the included WidePath tool, while hard-to-reach areas such as corners, crevices and baseboards can be cleaned with the Tightspot Tool. There’s no doubt every inch of your space will be left looking and smelling fresh.

“I bought this to clean rugs and cushions on outdoor furniture,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “It works well and I have no issues with it. You really get to see how dirty things are.”

Weight: 4.4kg

Capacity: 1.18L clean and 680ml dirty

Key features:

• Dual tank system cycling clean water
• Portable and lightweight design
• WidePath brush, TightSpot tool
• 2-in-1 spot and stain targeting tool
• 1.37m hose and 5.5m power cord
• Three-year warranty

Also available at:

• $259 from Catch.com.au
• $196.96 from Amazon

Shop Now

04

Bissell stain eraser turbo 2982F cordless portable spot cleaner

$199, Amazon

Power through once-unreachable stains with the convenience of cordless technology. This easy-to-clean tool features a high-power rotating brush head and powerful suction automation, delivering deep cleaning results for the car and home.

“Amazing little machine to quickly pull out and attack a spill,” one five-star customer admitted. “Owner of 3 indoor cats and 6 grandchildren under the age of eight, this machine is a must.”

Weight: 2kg

Power: 2000rpm

Capacity: 236ml

Key features:

• Battery-powered cordless cleaner with charging cable
• Up to 20 minutes run-time, 4.5 hours charge time
• Removable tank, brush roll and suction lens
• Tough stain Power Brush
• Comes with Oxy Boost (236ml) and Spot & Stain formula (236ml)
• Two-year warranty

Also available at:

• $139 (usually $179) from Catch.com.au
• $160 (usually $179) from Appliances Online

Shop Now

05

Bissell SpotClean HydroSteam 3689F

$469, Betta

Qualified cleaners and homebodies alike will appreciate the features of this compact Bissell HydroSteam. There’s hardly a surface this versatile model can’t tackle — whether it’s carpets, rugs, fabric upholstery, tiles, grout, sneakers or car interiors.

It’s equipped with a generous 1.9L clean water tank and a 1.5L dirty water tank, along with two interchangeable tool attachments and cleaning solutions, so you can get straight to work as soon as it arrives at your doorstep.

“It did exactly what I wanted it to do,” one five-star reviewer confirmed. “I am extremely pleased and can recommend this to anyone who needs to clean upholstery.”

Weight: 6kg

Power: 1100W

Capacity: 1.9L clean, 1.5L dirty

Key features:

• Multi-surface tool
• Included hydro-rinse-self-cleaning tool, and 8cm and 12cm tough stain tool
• Comes with Pet Stain and Odour formula (236ml) and Oxy Boost formula (236ml)
• Two-year warranty

Also available at:

• $449 from Bing Lee
• $499 from The Good Guys
• $440.04 (usually $499) from Amazon

Shop now

Do steam cleaners really work on upholstery?

Steam cleaners are extremely effective when it comes to lifting stains and dirt from upholstery. There are a variety of cleaners available to shop, each ranging in form, with some better suited to upholstery than others. When deciding on the cleaner best suited to you and your home, it is important to take note of the inclusion of detergents. Though it is always nice to clear the bacteria as well as the dirt, depending on the material under cleaning, damage may appear.

Which is the best upholstery cleaner?

Any of the models mentioned in our roundup are the best choices when it comes to investing in an upholstery steam cleaner. However, when it comes to narrowing down to the best one for you, there are a few factors to consider, like your cleaning needs, budget and type of furniture you have.

• Type of upholstery steam cleaner: Do you need a handheld, canister or upright steam cleaner? Handheld steam cleaners are great for apartment living because they’re compact, portable and great for small cleaning jobs or spot treatments. Cansiter steam cleaners have large water tanks and stronger steam pressure for deep cleaning sofas, mattresses and carpets. Upright steam cleaners are best for full-room cleaning, often used for carpets but with attachments for upholstery.
• Steam power and temperature: Look for a model with high steam pressure and a temperature of at least 100 degrees Celcius to effectively remove stains, bacteria and allergens.
• Water tank capacity and heat-up time: A steam cleaner with a smaller tank (under 500ml) will heat up faster but require frequent refills. On the other hand, those with larger tanks (over 1L) allow for extended cleaning sessions but will take longer to heat up.
• Attachments and accessories: Ideally, your chosen steam cleaner should come with additional accessories like an upholstery brush, crevice tool and microfibre pads.
• Ease of use and portability: Consider the weight, cord length and ergonomics of a steam cleaner to ensure comfort and convenience while cleaning.
• Budget and rating: Reputable brands like Bissell and Hoover offer a great balance of price and performance. Make sure to read through reviews to check durability, effectiveness and real-work user experiences.
• Safety features: Added features like automatic shut-off, child locks and adjustable steam settings are essential to prevent overheating or accidental burns.

The post 5 top-rated upholstery steam cleaners that will effortlessly tackle everyday messes appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The Block 2025: What We Know So Far

With cameras now rolling and drama practically guaranteed, here’s the scoop on what’s ahead.

Who are The Block 2025 contestants?

While the identy of the 2025 Block contestants still remain under wraps, we got a sneak peek of the new cast members at Daylesford’s annual LGBTQIA+ Chill Out Festival parade.

The new photos, which were posted on The Blockinator Instagram account, showed the five new teams dressed up in lots of colour and celebrating with the town. The images also captured some of the team’s names written on the floats, which means we now know the names of four out of the five couples. So far, we know that we’re going to be meeting Han and Cam, Robby and Mat, Britt and Taz, and Emma and Ben.

Julian Cress also dropped another cast hint in his Local interview: “The Block was the first TV show in the world to have a gay couple. And we’ve had a bunch of contestants from that community on the show over the years. This year will be no different.”

Given that Daylesford is Australia’s largest LGBTIQA+ regional town (as noted by The Local editor Donna Kelly), the casting choice makes perfect sense.

Regardless of their backgrounds, experience or representation, one thing is guaranteed – contestants are in for a gruelling ride. “Every season, every contestant says to me at some point, ‘Jules, I knew this would be hard. I just didn’t know it would be this hard,’” Julian shared.

Even the fit, trade-savvy Block 2024 contestants found the process brutally challenging, proving that no amount of preparation makes this competition a walk in the park.

The Block 2025 hosts

Scott Cam is expected to return to helm the series, fresh off selling his Gisborne home – his personal renovation project since 2022. Long-time co-host Shelley Craft is also anticipated to return, with no news suggesting otherwise. She’s been keeping busy, completing a stunning reno on her own Byron Bay family home.

The Block 2025 judges

After Neale Whitaker exited the show in 2023, real estate agent Marty Fox stepped in full-time, joining interior designers Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer. This expert trio dissected every design hit and miss in 2024, and they’re expected to be back for another season of fiery debates and divisive verdicts. In the meantime, find out Darren’s favourite The Block houses of all time.

The Block 2025 foreman

With original head foreman Keith Schleiger sitting out The Block 2024 to stay close to his daughters, Dan Reilly stepped up to lead the charge. Unfortunately, Keith’s return seems unlikely – he recently revealed on social media that he was hospitalised with a leg infection from a past hip replacement.

Dan has also faced personal tragedy, with him and wife Dani losing their newborn daughter Billie just 10 days after her birth in December 2024. The couple has received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow Block alumni.

The good news is, we will be seeing Dan resume his role on The Block 2025. Dani and their two dogs, Olive and Hazel, have relocated to Daylesford to be with him during filming.

The Block 2025 houses

This year’s contestants will tackle brand-new builds in a development at Daylesford’s entrance. Julian Cress revealed to The Local how the site came about: “We came across the location through a friend of ours, Natalie [Fagan] at Belle Property. She’s a great agent in the area, and she introduced me to the developers. I just love the fact that the property is so well positioned. It’s like the gateway to Daylesford.”

Julian knows the area well – he moved from Melbourne to the Macedon Ranges years ago, and his deep connection to regional Victoria has shaped The Block’s locations, including the 2022 season filmed in Gisborne.

The Block 2025 auction

With Daylesford’s charm setting the stage, all eyes will be on auction day. While the 2022 Gisborne season saw three homes passed in (despite Omar and Oz taking home a record-breaking $1.68 million profit), the 2024 series fared better. That season’s homes had more appealing reserves of $1.95 million, and super bidder Adrian Portelli ended up buying all five houses – netting sisters Maddy and Charlotte a $1.65 million windfall.

However, this year could be a whole different ball game. Adrian has vowed not to return, and reserve prices are yet to be set. Anything could happen when the hammer falls!

With the build about to begin, The Block 2025 promises high stakes, jaw-dropping transformations, and, of course, plenty of drama. Stay tuned!

• Mimi and Kristian’s house
• Courtney and Grant’s house
• Maddy and Charlotte’s house
• Kylie and Brad’s house
• Ricky and Haydn’s house

Tour every house on The Block 2024

The post We have our first look at The Block 2025 contestants appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

The top bunk beds to buy in 2025

01

Sonata Bunk Bed

from $499.99, Mocka

Best for: vintage-inspired bedrooms, older children

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

Sizes: 160cm x 100cm x 198cm

Colours: White/Black

Materials: Steel

Key features:

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

Shop now

02

BOORI NATTY Maxi Bunk Bed with Shelves

from $1,999, Freedom

Best for: neutral fans, younger children

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

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

Sizes: 180 cm x 264 cm x 140 cm

Colours: Beige/White

Materials: Australian Araucaria timber, LVL timber, plywood

Key features:

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

Available at:

• $1,529 from Temple & Webster

Shop now

03

Springfield Bunk Bed Single Over Double

from $1,449, Freedom

Best for: guest rooms, extra sleeping space, teens

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

Sizes: 154.5 cm x 201 cm x 169.7 cm

Colours: White

Materials: Rubber wood

Key features:

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

Shop Now

04

Oslo Convertible Single Bunk Bed with Wardrobe

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

Best for: convertible design, all ages

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

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

Sizes: 160 cm x 136 cm x 255.1 cm

Colours: Light Timber, White

Materials: Manufactured timber

Key features:

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

Shop Now

05

Light Timber Grace Low Line Single Bunk Bed

$697 (usually $749), Temple & Webster

Best for: neutral fans, younger children

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

Sizes: 112.6cm x 114.5cm

Colours: Timber/White

Materials: Timber-look

Key features:

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

Shop Now

06

Boston Grey Snow Bunk Beds

$1,399, Adairs

Best for: contemporary design, siblings

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

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

Sizes: 104cm x 205.5cm x 172.5cm

Colours: Grey and Brown

Materials: Boucle, wood

Key features:

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

Shop Now

07

Dante 2-in-1 Solid Pine Timber Bunk Bed

$359 (usually $599), Luxo Living

Best for: neutral, versatility

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

Sizes: 203 x 98.5 x 156cm

Colours: Natural

Materials: 100% Solid pine wood

Key features:

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

Shop Now

08

Oakley Single Over Double Bunk Bed

$599, Temple & Webster

Best for: classic style, space saving

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

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

Colours: White

Materials: Pine wood & MDF frame

Key features:

• Pannelled look
• Solid wood
• Easy clean

Shop Now

Are bunk beds safe?

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

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

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

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

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

How much weight can a bunk bed hold?

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

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

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

Related article:

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

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

Soaring windows, doors and skylights infuse a natural glow, while beautiful joinery ensures the essentials of family life are catered for, but cleverly concealed where possible. “It ticks a lot of boxes,” muses Ashley. “We definitely want to stay here a while.”

The dream journey

Who? Ashley, design and interior consultant; husband Chad who owns Submerge Plumbing & Gas and their children, Asta, 6, and Maya, 3.
Where? Mediterranean inspired, new build set across four levels in inner city Brisbane.
Time frame? Design took approximately six months, the build 12 months and the project was completed November 2024.
The dream? “To create a family home with personalised luxurious touches where every day felt like a holiday,” says Ashley.
Approach? A knock down rebuild which made the most of the 620sqm block and city views.
Must-haves? A statement kitchen, a resort-style pool area, bold styling pieces with hints of colour and city views.
Wishlist? Central indoor outdoor entertaining and living area, an abundance of natural stone, original art and unique light fittings.
Why is this your dream home? “It has a holiday feel, with everything we need and want,” says Ashley

Best advice

“Over the years, I have created a personalised budgeting spreadsheet in Excel that I consistently use which helps me stay organised and on track throughout the entire construction process,” says Ashley. The couple also know where they’ll splurge and where they can save. “We’ve found considerable investment should be directed toward the kitchen and bathrooms. These spaces are central to the home’s functionality and comfort. High-quality fixtures and fittings in these areas not only enhance the overall finish but can also contribute to the property’s value,” says Ashley.

Landscaping is an area they can save. “During the build Chad was hands-on wherever possible, building garden beds, retaining walls, constructing fencing, laying turf and painting,” says Ashley. Engaging a qualified builder, experienced in the type of build you’re embarking on is also essential. “You need to have confidence your builder has the expertise and a network of trades who can achieve the level of finish and architectural details you’re after,” says Ashley, “so look at their past work, ask the questions and ensure you have good communication from the start,” says Ashley.

Realising the dream

“The quality of natural light in a home makes a huge difference to how it feels, so it was really important to capture as much of it as possible and enhance the sense of connectivity to the outdoors,” explains Ashley. This was achieved with custom three-metre-high glass doors, soaring arched windows, a vast double front door and Velux skylights that infuse the home with a natural warm glow.

It was also important to create an outdoor haven. Living in Queensland’s tropical climate, Ashley has found their favourite place to spend time is outside, in the pool and alfresco area. “We live outside, particularly in summer, so the design centred on ensuring the kitchen and living zones overlooked the pool and flowed seamlessly to the alfresco area,” she says. “It feels like you’re on holiday when you eat outside around the pool and can jump in to cool off whenever you want.”

Lessons learnt

Experienced in new builds, Ashley and Chad have accumulated a wealth of knowledge with each step of the building and design process. “One of the biggest things we’ve learnt is patience in the process and the importance of devoting time to the planning,” says Ashley.

“Creating a home that functions well takes time, and working out as many of the details ahead of the build can save headaches down the track. It’s really beneficial in the planning stage to get renders of key spaces like the kitchen, ensuite and outdoor area to ensure it works functionally and aesthetically.”

Kitchen

Beautifully simple with sweeping curves and cloud-like lighting, the kitchen provides wow-factor. The centrepiece is the White Onyx stone island. “It has always been my dream to splurge on stone to create unique, custom-designed vanities and a show-stopping kitchen island,” says Ashley, who designed the sculptural onyx slabs with scalloped edging and went in search of the perfect stone. “We couldn’t find what we were after locally so sourced the White and Wooden Onyx and custom stonemason detailing overseas and had it sent in a container, which arrived six weeks before install.”

“Creatively, I was able to do a lot of things I’d always wanted to. It was a dream to custom-design the onyx surfaces, which give the kitchen and bathrooms a unique look.”

Ashley, homeowner.

The same White Onyx that is on the island in the kitchen runs up the back wall. Gentle curves abound, from the shape of the joinery to the carefully selected ‘Caroline Double’ pendants from About Space Lighting, to the stool from Bohteak. In keeping with the warm tones throughout the house, Brushed Copper tapware from ABI Interiors was chosen for all the wet areas.

“With a new build there’s often ample room for creativity when incorporating unique features into the home”

Ashley, homeowner.

A dry bar complete with a Vintec wine fridge, adds a sense of luxury. Shelves within the nook also provide a place for display. Natural tones inspired the scheme with Dulux Natural White on the walls, joinery in Polytec Boston Oak, and oak flooring, from Awesome Timber Floors.

Dining

When dining inside, the family take a seat in Bohteak chairs and gather around a table from Life Interiors. Ashley designed the ruffle pendant and chose the ‘Pare’ artwork by Bec Talbot to complement the home’s tones.

Living

Decadently spacious, there’s plenty of room for the family to relax on a Future Classics Furniture curved sofa which wraps around a striking marble coffee table from Bova Gallery, which anchors a Miss Amara rug. A ‘Luna’ floor lamp from Byron Hanging Chairs adds to the home’s sculptural, gallery-like appeal. Side table from Vorsen.

Bedroom

A panel in Polytec Boston Oak in the main bedroom frames the bedhead from RJ Living. Another custom addition are the onyx bedside tables. The palette evokes a warm glow, from the bedlinen and cushions from Pillow Talk and Weave Home and RJ Living ottoman, to the walls where a Coco Flip ‘Pinch’ wall sconce and an artwork, ‘Down to Earth’ by Emily Wood from Gioia Wall Art, pair perfectly.

Bathrooms

Floor-to-ceiling tiles from Amber Tiles envelop the ensuite, with the eyes drawn to the feature custom Polytec Boston Oak vanity topped in Wooden Onyx bordered with hand-scalloped edging. Rachel Donath mirrors accent the wall, punctuated with Brushed Brass tapware from ABI Interiors. A bath from Caroma sits alongside a tactile wall adorned in zellige tiles from Amber Tiles.

A vanity in Taj Mahal quartzite makes a statement below an RJ Living mirror that sits on wall tiles from Amber Tiles.

Laundry

“The laundry design was intentionally kept simple and elegant to create a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment,” explains Ashley. “The laundry chute was non-negotiable and a must-have in all multi level homes. We also felt full-height cabinets opposite the bench were important to maximise storage,” she adds.

The dreamy palette includes custom Polytec Boston Oak joinery, a Caesarstone Marbannova benchtop, complemented with travertine finger tiles from Amber Tiles and an ABI Interiors Brushed Brass tap.

“Be confident in your selections and don’t let someone tell you it can’t be done. Often with a little perseverance there will be a way.”

Ashley, home owner.

Outdoors

We wanted to create a warm and sun-filled home for our young family and called the house Solara which means ‘Of the Sun’,” says Ashley. For an added resort-style feel, tiles spell out Solara at the base of the pool bordered by a tropical garden bed. The pool side chairs are from Zaneti, with a matching custom umbrella by Original Parasol Co.

“I love the elevated outlook over the beautiful pool and gardens and connection between the indoor and outdoor living zones,” reflects Ashley. Opting for a green scheme, an Early Settler outdoor dining setting runs alongside the outdoor kitchen, while the outdoor living area is furnished with sofas from MCM House and a P & R Styling coffee table. An artwork titled ‘Frutti Di Mare & Aperol Spritz’ by Ekaterina Zagorska, from Gioia Wall Art, completes the scene.

Design & interior consultant Sage & Cove Interiors, 0422 832 171, @sage.and.cove
Drafting ReziCad, (07) 3363 8188, rezicad.com. Builder CHS Building, 0417 629 396, @chsbuilding
Joinery KVW Cabinets, 0422 744 788, kvwcabinets.com.au

Hanging garden, CCL Cacti @ccl_cacti

Source book

The post A dazzling Mediterranean-inspired new build in Brisbane appeared first on Home Beautiful.

After six months on the market, Todd McKenney’s home at 66 Livingstone Avenue sold. It had a price guide of $5 million.

News flash

It was Todd McKenney’s great mate Sonia Kruger who “dragged” the Australian entertainer to the northern suburbs of Sydney. The pair were working on the morning radio shift at Mix 106.5, searching real estate sites while songs played, when Sonia suddenly “swung her computer around and said, ‘Toddy, look!’” he recalls. “We finished the show and drove to the front verge and literally looked over the fence. Sonia just said: ‘You’ve found your house.’ I’d bought it in my mind before I even went inside.”

At the time, Todd was looking for extra space. With this sprawling 1918 heritage home, on around 2200 square metres of land with a glorious garden, he certainly got it. “I’ve never even had a garden and look what I have now,” he told Home Beautiful when we visited, pointing out different species of plants and trees that are more than a century old.

Step inside the delightfully warm home with grand proportions and it’s obvious Todd’s got a natural talent for interior decorating. Each space sings with personal style and a great story or three. In one spot there’s a chair bought at a charity auction he MC’d, while here there’s a piece picked up outside a Chinese restaurant in inner-city Newtown, and over there are some fantastic old theatre signs the entertainer managed to nab from a theatre mechanist in exchange for a bottle of vodka and a six-pack.

A dramatic artwork by Tim Maguire serves as a striking centrepiece in the living area, which is all about low-maintenance style. “This isn’t precious, this is lived in,” says Todd. “I had lovely rugs here, but the dogs came and peed on them straight away, so now I have carpet offcuts,” he says with a smile.

Over the years, Todd has spent many Sunday mornings with the papers or belting out a show tune on the home’s grounds. With a private lap pool spanning the width of the house and a sunny side garden, Todd’s outdoor oasis is an endless source of inspiration – and hedging fun. “Jason Hodges from Better Homes and Gardens taught me how to hedge, and his brother Keith is now my gardener,” Todd told Home Beautiful during our tour of the place.

The perfectly manicured garden is full of surprises. “I lived here for two years not knowing what the garden did, as I was always on tour,” he explains. “I came home from the Gold Coast, turned the corner and my garden was in full bloom. I rang up Mum and said, ‘You should see what the garden does!’”

After enjoying the home to its fullest, Todd has decided to make the move to Melbourne, where his daughter Charlotte, lives to support her during her last year of high school.

The home has been listed for sale through Paul and Ben Langsam at Raine & Horne Double Bay. Expressions of interest are open until September 26.

The post Todd McKenney’s hedge-lined estate finally sells after six months on the market appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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

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

Dream Home contestants: Where are they now?

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

Winners: Rhys & Liam (Qld)

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

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

2nd Place: Lara & Peter (NSW)

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

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

3rd Place: Elle & Taeler (Vic)

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

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

4th Place: Jacinta & Jordan (NSW)

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

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

5th Place: Hannah & Jonny (Qld)

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

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

6th Place: Brad & Mel (Vic)

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

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

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

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

The post Dream Home: One Year Later – Who’s Living the Dream and Who’s Moving On? appeared first on Home Beautiful.