Home | marie claire https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/ Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:31:55 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/11/cropped-MCFavIcon.png Home | marie claire https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/ 32 32 225376000 Redecorate Without Leaving Your Bed: These Are The Best Places To Shop For Furniture Online https://www.marieclaire.com.au/shopping/best-online-furniture-stores-australia/ Thu, 11 Dec 2025 22:21:44 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1499898 Upgrade your space

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If there’s one pastime we’ll happily own up to, it’s the lazy Sunday morning spent scrolling Pinterest, bookmarking beautiful interiors and convincing ourselves that this is the year we finally upgrade our home. Of course, reality quickly sets in: the app closes, we roll out of bed, and the day carries on as usual.

Because for all their aesthetic appeal, those perfectly styled homes rarely resemble real life—or our own apartment. And it’s that disconnect, between dream-worthy inspiration and lived-in spaces, that often has us scrolling on without ever tapping ‘add to cart’.

However, one of the biggest perks of shopping online for furniture is that you can see how pieces are styled in a home. Usually, alongside their etched images are photos of them in a room, which can help you visualise where they’ll go in one of your own.

Fortunately, when it comes to online furniture stores in Australia, we’re spoilt for choice. We have stores selling furniture meant to last a lifetime, outlets with more affordable solutions and online retailers with dozen of options for every category so you can easily get in on the latest trends. Some offer free delivery, others charge fees, but all let you intuitively browse their range in a space comfortable for you. 

Whether it’s a new sofa you need, or a set of bedside tables or dining table chairs, these online furniture stores we’ve highlighted below are likely to have something to suit.

Read: Coffee Tables That Prove You Don’t Need Much Space For Style


James Lane

Launched in 2016 by the same Australian family behind mattress brand Sleeping Giant, James Lane has roughly 29 stores around Australia, as well as an online store with its range of living room, dining room and bedroom furniture. Once you’ve chosen what you want, you can pick it up from a store or have it delivered for a fee.

best online furniture stores James Lane Delphi Large Coffee Table

JAMES LANE
Delphi Large Coffee Table

best online furniture stores James Lane Morgan Oak Dresser 6 Drawer

JAMES LANE
Morgan Oak Dresser – 6 Drawer

best online furniture stores James Lane Lax Swivel Chair

JAMES LANE
Lax Swivel Chair

best online furniture stores James Lane Azul Dining Armless Chair

JAMES LANE
Azul Dining Armless Chair


Mocka

Available online in Australia and New Zealand, Mocka is known for its affordable prices and on-trend styles. The brand, which started in 2007, sells furniture for the living room, dining room and bedroom, as well as outdoor pieces and homewares. Stock all leaves a Brisbane warehouse within three days, though delivery times vary. If you live in Brisbane, you can collect your piece directly.

best online furniture stores Mocka Osaka Bedside Table

MOCKA
Osaka Bedside Table

MOCKA
Bobbin Mirror – Round

best online furniture stores Mocka Deven Ball Feet Six Drawer

MOCKA
Deven Ball Feet Six Drawer

best online furniture stores Mocka Reign 25 Seater Sofa

MOCKA
Reign 2.5 Seater Sofa 


MCM House

MCM House was started by Sydneysider Charles Hinckfuss in 2010, aiming to create indoor and outdoor furniture suited to Australia’s unparalleled relaxed lifestyle. Hinckfuss had started his career buying and selling antique furniture, an experience that’s inspired MCM House’s designs. The label has seven showrooms around Australia, as well as all pieces available on its online store.

best online furniture stores MCM House Zaha Travertine Coffee Table

MCM HOUSE
Zaha Travertine Coffee Table

best online furniture stores MCM House Outdoor Benn Sofa

MCM HOUSE
Outdoor Benn Sofa (2200W)

best online furniture stores MCM House Rudi Tollop Dining Chair

MCM HOUSE
Rudi Tollop Dining Chair (2x)

best online furniture stores MCM House Bosca 2 Door Buffet

MCM HOUSE
Bosca 2 Door Buffet


RJ Living

RJ Living was founded by Melbourne financier David Janovic in 2012. The brand has a showroom and an outlet store in Melbourne, another showroom in Sydney, and an upcoming store in Brisbane, though its entire range is also available online. You can choose from standard delivery, premium or white-glove, or opt to collect the piece yourself from RJ Living’s Dandenong South warehouse.

best online furniture stores RJ Living Muse Bedside Table

RJ LIVING
Muse Bedside Table

best online furniture stores RJ Living Mellow Armchair

RJ LIVING
Mellow Armchair 

best online furniture stores RJ Living Profile Dining Chair

RJ LIVING
Profile Dining Chair

best online furniture stores RJ Living Floss Queen Bed

RJ LIVING
Floss Queen Bed


Temple and Webster

Temple and Webster is known for its massive range—it has over 200,000 products and is Australia’s largest online furniture and homewares retailer. The online-only company was founded in 2011 by a group of Aussie entrepreneurs passionate about changing how we shopped for furniture. Shipping prices vary depending on the order.

best online furniture stores Temple and Webster Deena Upholstered Bed Head

TEMPLE AND WEBSTER
Deena Upholstered Bedhead (Double)

best online furniture stores Temple and Webster Vonn Kitchen Island Bench With Storage

TEMPLE AND WEBSTER
Vonn Kitchen Island Bench With Storage

best online furniture stores Temple and Webster Caledon 2 Tier Steel Bar Cart

TEMPLE AND WEBSTER
Caledon 2 Tier Steel Bar Cart

best online furniture stores Temple and Webster Quinn 4 Seater Upholstered Sofa

TEMPLE AND WEBSTER
Quinn 4 Seater Upholstered Sofa With Reversible Chaise


King Living

King Living is a family-owned Australian furniture brand founded in 1977. The brand champions made-to-order designs in a market saturated with fast furniture. If you’re keen to experience a King Living piece IRL before you buy, you can book a consult at one of 20 showrooms around Australia.

best online furniture stores King Living Otto Cube Ottoman

KING LIVING
Otto Cube Ottoman

best online furniture stores Issho Console Table

KING LIVING
Issho Console Table

KING LIVING
Luna Timber Bar Stool

best online furniture stores King Living King Sofa Bed

KING LIVING
King Sofa Bed


Freedom Furniture

Freedom Furniture was started in 1981 with the vision of helping Aussies create a home they loved coming back to. Today, it’s a major player in the Australian and New Zealand furniture and homewares market with roughly 47 stores and an online store, which may offer free delivery to metro areas with a minimum spend. If you have your eye on a piece and live in a metro area, it’s worth waiting a few months to see if the free delivery offer pops up.

best online furniture stores Freedom Furniture Jagger Side Table

FREEDOM FURNITURE
Jagger Side Table

best online furniture stores Freedom Furniture Miro Dining Table

FREEDOM FURNITURE
Miro Dining Table

best online furniture stores Freedom Furniture Asha Floor Mirror

FREEDOM FURNITURE
Asha Floor Mirror

best online furniture stores Freedom Furniture Orly Fabric Bench

FREEDOM FURNITURE
Orly Fabric Bench


Lounge Lovers

Derek Kerr co-founded Lounge Lovers in 2011, aiming to provide more Australians with accessible, design-led furniture. The brand has 16 showrooms and warehouses around the country, as well as an online store with pieces helpfully organised by type, material and style, including coastal, mid-century and urban industrial.

best online furniture stores Lounge Lovers Hudson Armless Modular

LOUNGE LOVERS
Hudson Armless Modular

best online furniture stores Lounge Lovers Happy 2 Seat Sofa Bed

LOUNGE LOVERS
Happy II 2 Seat Sofa Bed

best online furniture stores Lounge Lovers Oskar Dining Table

LOUNGE LOVERS
Oskar Dining Table

best online furniture stores Lounge Lovers Manhattan Trolley

LOUNGE LOVERS
Manhattan Tallboy


Koala

When Koala launched in 2015, it only sold a mattress-in-a-box. It’s since expanded into furniture and homewares, all sustainably-made. The brand has a single showroom—in Sydney’s Moore Park—though not all products are on display and only pillows are available to take home that day. Alternatively, you can shop online, choosing from standard shipping, premium service or, if you’d like your order delivered to a room in your home, room service.

best online furniture stores Koala Torquay Modular Sofa

KOALA
Torquay Modular Sofa

best online furniture stores Koala Torakina Outdoor Coffee Table

KOALA
Torakina Outdoor Coffee Table (Square)

best online furniture stores Koala Kirribilli Side Table

KOALA
Kirribilli Side Table

best online furniture stores Koala Bangalow Modular Sofa Module

KOALA
Bangalow Modular Sofa Module (1-seater)


What Are Some Of The Best Online Furniture Stores In Australia For Quality?

When looking for quality pieces of furniture, generally the higher the price of the piece, the better the craftsmanship and materials are used to make it. However, that’s not always necessarily the case—despite the price, you can rest assured pieces from MCM House, James Lane and King Living will last years to come.

How Can I Tell The Quality Of Online Furniture Before Buying?

That is the biggest challenge of buying large items online. Since you can’t feel or test the furniture, you have to reply on the quality of information provided by the retailer and reviews left by other people who have purchased the item. Because of this, it’s important you deep dive into the materials and construction, scrutinise the imagery and check the brand’s policies and reputation.

Do Online Furniture Stores Offer Australia-Wide Delivery?

Yes, most major furniture retailers in Australia do offer Australia-wide delivery, but with significant caveats, particularly regarding cost and speed. Most online stores have postcode checkers so you can see the estimated shipping price and time.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Buy Online Furniture?

Generally, the best time to buy online furniture is during a sales period such as End Of Financial Year, Black Friday or Boxing Day sales. However, some online furniture stores offer retailer-specific sales during off-peak shopping times, so the best way to ensure you’re getting the best price is to sign up to retailer newsletters or follow their page on social media.


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1499898 High Thread Count, Higher Standards—These Are Our Editors’ Favourite Sheets These Wooden Bed Frames Are Actually Nice To Look At Coffee Tables That Prove You Don’t Need Much Space For Style Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) ELLE prod quad – 2025-12-11T103532.668 Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (2) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (2) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (2) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (2) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) ELLE prod quad – 2025-12-11T103945.177 Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (3) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (5) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (4) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (6) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (2) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) marieclaire-1499898
This Dreamy Pencil Stripe Bedding Is 50% Off In Cultiver’s Black Friday Sale https://www.marieclaire.com.au/shopping/cultiver-sale/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 19:58:47 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1497847 It'll get you (more) excited to hop into bed

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NEED TO KNOW:

  • Cultiver’s Black Friday sale will run from Wednesday, November 26 ‘til Monday, December 1, with 25-50 per cent off sitewide
  • Bedding in Pencil Stripe, Fern Strip and Piped Linen will be 50 per cent off
  • Subscribers to Cultiver’s newsletter will get early access to the sale

Crisp, calming and luxurious are a few ways I’d describe linen pencil stripe bedding. It’s polished, timeless and would make me excited (more than usual) to hop into bed. And one of the best versions I’ve spotted is about to be 50 per cent off in Cultiver’s Annual Sale: the Linen Duvet Cover and matching Linen Fitted Sheet and Set of 2 Linen Pillowcases, all in a matching pencil stripe (I like the white specifically).  

What To Shop In The Cultiver Sale, According To marie claire:

Essentially a Black Friday sale, the annual sale runs from Wednesday, November 26 to Monday, December 1, with 25-30 per cent off sitewide, meaning discounts across everything, including my dream pencil stripe linen bedding. If you’re signed up to Cultiver’s newsletter, you’ll get early access and first dibs. We don’t have many details on the specific discounts assigned to products, but know the Luna Throw Stripes and Linen Robes in selected colours will be 50 per cent off.

If you want to start prepping your wishlist ahead of the sale, I’m here to help with an edit of what else from Cultiver I have my eye on. Scroll down to see my selects.

Read: High Thread Count, Higher Standards—These Are Our Editors Favourite Sheets

Our editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. Read more here.


Bedding

Cultiver Linen Duvet Cover

CULTIVER
Linen Duvet Cover Pencil Stripe

Cultiver Linen Pillowcases Siena

CULTIVER
Set of 2 Linen Pillowcases

CULTIVER
Heavyweight Linen Bedcover

Cultiver Linen Flat Sheet

CULTIVER
Linen Flat Sheet – Forest (Queen/King)


Dining

Cultiver Linen Tablecloth Natural

CULTIVER
Linen Tablecloth

Cultiver Linen Table Napkins Cedar Stripe

CULTIVER
Linen Table Napkins

Cultiver Fia Kitchen Towel Natural

CULTIVER
Fia Kitchen Towel

Cultiver Jude Linen Apron Natural

CULTIVER
Jude Linen Apron


Living

Cultiver Linen Curtain White

CULTIVER
Linen Curtain

Cultiver Linen Robe Edition II

CULTIVER
Linen Robe Edition II

Cultiver Luna Stripe Lumbar Cushion Cover

CULTIVER
Luna Stripe Lumbar Cushion Cover

Cultiver Silk Slip

CULTIVER
Silk Slip


When Is Cultiver’s Black Friday Sale 2025?

Cultiver’s Annual Sale, when it’s offering its biggest discounts of the year, is essentially its Black Friday sale. It’ll run from Wednesday, November 26 ‘til Monday, December 1, with 25-50 per cent off sitewide.

What Discounts Will Cultiver Be Offering For Its Black Friday Sale?

Cultiver will be offering 20-50 per cent off its bedding, living, dining and bath. We know the Repose & Thatch Linen Bedcovers from the Colin King Collection, Linen Sheets, Pillowcases and Duvet Covers in Pencil Stripe, Fern Stripe, and our Piped Linen Collection, Luna Throw Stripes and Linen Robes in selected colours will be 50 per cent, but we don’t have any other details on products and their new pricing.

How Can I Get The Best Deals On Cultiver This Black Friday?

For early access to Cultiver’s Black Friday sale, sign up to their newsletter. Also, ahead of the sale, familiarise yourself with what they offer and what exactly you want. That way, when the price drops, you can snatch it up immediately and avoid it potentially selling out.

Who Founded Cultiver?

Sydney-based Nicolle Sullivan founded Cultiver in 2012, inspired by her family’s history of collecting and passing down textiles. She was working in banking, but on her maternity leave, when she decided to launch the brand. At the time, there weren’t many brands offering linen bedding. Cultiver now sells bedding, dining, living and bathware.

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1497847 Wellness Essentials To Kickstart Your Year These Polished Straight-Leg Pants Are Still On Sale—And They’re Worth Buying Twice The Inside-Out Beauty Boom: How Ingestibles Became The Trend Of The Decade Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) – 2025-11-25T092757.858 Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (1) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) (2) Vertical Product Image Template (Grey Background) marieclaire-1497847
15 Christmas Gifts Ideas For The Homewares Lover On Your List https://www.marieclaire.com.au/shopping/home-decor-christmas-gifts-australia/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 03:56:22 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/home-decor-christmas-gifts-australia The most stylish presents for the home

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We can’t believe it either but somehow Christmas is just around the corner. While it’s endless fun to plan out our own wish lists, figuring out what to buy for others can be a little tricky, but that’s where homewares gifts come in handy. 

Whether you’re shopping for someone you know very well or someone you don’t know at all, you can never go wrong with some thoughtful home décor.

Things like candlestick holders, cocktail glasses and cutesy bathmats are all things we probably wouldn’t buy for ourselves, but would be more than happy to find under the Christmas tree this year. Plus, chic décor will last a lifetime, and what could be a better present than that?

Below, our edit of homewares gifts that they’re sure to treasure. Oh, and if you happen to find something for yourself along the way, we promise not to tell if you add two to cart. 

The Best Homewares Gifts & Home Décor Buys To Give This Christmas

01

50’s Style Kettle – Cream

$179 (usually $299) at Smeg

It’s easy to run out of homewares gift ideas for the coffee lover in your life once you’ve exhausted the usual suspects, but you can’t go wrong with a kettle of this calibre. Smeg’s cream gloss kettle pairs timeless style with everyday ease, featuring a stainless steel body, soft-close lid, swivel base and automatic shut-off for safe, reliable boiling.

02

Double Rainbow Magazine Rack

$259 (usually $370) at Trit House

A magazine holder has never looked so chic! What better way to tell the reader in your life that you love and appreciate them, than with something to store and display their most valued possessions? Plus, the shapely silhouette and chrome finish could easily pass for a sculpture when not in use (if ever).

Our Place Perfect Pot

03

Perfect Pot

$200 (usually $300) at Our Place

This 8-in-1 kitchen essential is the ultimate gift that keeps on giving. Available in five gorgeous colourways, the Perfect Pot from cult cookware brand Our Place can be used for everything from boiling to baking, steaming to braising and everything in between – removing the need for a cupboard full of clutter.

04

Amalfi River Table Lamp 55 cm

$129.99 at Harris Scarfe

Both practical and stylish, the Amalfi River Table Lamp adds an instant polish to any space. Thanks to its neutral tones, it works in rooms of any style – from classic to contemporary. It’s the kind of piece that elevates a reading corner, adds a warm glow to the living room, or creates an inviting bedside vignette.

MCM House Benn Armchair

05

Benn Armchair

$1395 at MCM House

Simple and understated, gifting a piece like this will place you at the top of Santa’s nice list this Christmas. The simple and understated design of the Benn works for a wide range of interior aesthetics and styles, meaning you can feel confident knowing a homewares gift like this will be appreciated for years to come. Crafted to enhance any living space, this armchair combines a sturdy caramel wooden frame with plush brushed linen in chalk for a timeless look.

Robert Gordon Speckled Pie Dishes

06

Robert Gordon Mini Pie Dish Set

$29.98 (usually $59.95) at Myer

Pie dishes don’t get much cuter than these mini scalloped ones from Australian pottery favourites – Robert Gordon. The perfect gift for the baker in your life, this sweet set is a guaranteed homewares hit for the homebody on your Christmas list.

Aura Home Coverlet

07

Evie Stonewash Organic Cotton Coverlet

$349 at Aura Home

We know what you’re thinking, ‘but marie claire, it’s summer, why do I need a coverlet?’… well the answer is simple. Because everyone does! The coverlet is the ultimate bedding essential for guaranteed comfort all year round. It’s light enough to layer over your top sheet (for those who use one) in the warmer months, and adds an extra dose of cosy once the weather shifts into winter. And with no duvet cover necessary, what you’re really giving, is the gift of comfort and convenience – a win win!

08

Imperia Pasta Machine

$230 at Barbetta

It can be hard to find those special homewares gifts that deliver on aesthetics while adding practicality to the recipients life, but this pasta maker may just be the ultimate combination of the two! Made for the dinner party doyenne, or host with the most, the Imperia is widely considered to be one of the best non-electric models by those in the know.

09

Ollie Catchall

$149 at Ellison Studios

This cute catchall dish ticks all the boxes when it comes to thoughtful, aesthetic and useful gifts for the interiors-lover in your life. Hand-cast and fired from Australian clay, its sculptural form makes it as beautiful as it is practical. Placed by the door, it keeps everyday essentials neatly corralled and effortlessly elevates any space.

10

Super Normal by Jasper Morrison and Naoto Fukasawa

$75 at St. Agni

This book explores Jasper Morrison and Naoto Fukasawa’s concept of “super normal” design, showcasing 204 timeless everyday objects. Thoughtful and beautifully curated, it appeals to design lovers who appreciate simplicity, functionality and objects that quietly elevate daily life.

11

Nonna’s Grocer Orange Scented Candle

$62 at Hands

Founded by Wollongong-based designer Madeleine Hoy and inspired by her Great Grandparents who founded a local fruit shop in Daylesford, Nonna’s Grocer is a homewares brand that makes conceptual candles that are almost too good to burn. Scented to perfection, and strikingly realistic, this orange candle is one of our favourite holiday gift ideas for when you need to impress.

Loewe Home Fragrance Net A Porter

12

Loewe Beetroot Home Fragrance

$198 at Selfridges

If home is where the heart is, then it goes without saying that how your home smells is just as integral to domestic bliss? This nature-inspired olfactory gift is the ultimate sensory status symbol, with its sweet, earthy aroma that’s bound to become a welcome reminder of your elite gift giving skills all year round.

Gohar World Oven Mitts Ssense

13

Gohar World Oven Mitts

$130 at Ssense

If your giftee is the type to enjoy cooking with company, than there is no chicer way to do it than with a pair of these Gohar World oven mitts. Finished with a white Battenberg lace trim over a timeless green stripe, practical presents don’t come more glamorous than this.

Audo Copenhagen CLip Candle Care Kit Trit House

14

Audo Copenhagen Clip Candle Care Kit

$195 (usually $260) at Trit House

We’ve all got that one family member or friend whose love language is gifting and receiving scented candles, but what do you give the candle connoisseur who has everything? A candle care kit of course! And this one is as practical as it is aesthetically pleasing.

15

Koppel Pitcher

From $240 at Georg Jensen

Homewares gifts can feel fraught with uncertainty – what if they don’t like it? What if they already have it? With its sleek minimalist design and classic chrome finish, this elegant pitcher is destined to take pride of place on any table setting this holiday season.

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1118919 Untitled design (8) CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-11-26T141627.576 Our Place Perfect Pot image MCM House Benn Armchair Robert Gordon Speckled Pie Dishes Aura Home Coverlet CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-11-25T133153.788 CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-11-25T125701.044 CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-11-25T131111.756 CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-11-26T142408.143 Loewe Home Fragrance Net A Porter Gohar World Oven Mitts Ssense Audo Copenhagen CLip Candle Care Kit Trit House CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-11-26T142648.191 marieclaire-1118919
A Comprehensive Guide To Curating The Ultimate Pinterest-Worthy Bedroom  https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/pinterest-worthy-bedroom/ Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:42:10 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1293452 Merging comfort and style

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If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling the depths of Pinterest in search of interior styling tips, you’re not alone.  

In fact, with more than 5.1 million Australian users (and another 578 million worldwide), it’s safe to say that we’re all doing the same thing, and for good reason too. As a platform entirely dedicated to visual discovery, Pinterest is at the centre of each of my interior endeavours, helping me curate a home that feels both considered and stylish.  

However, when it comes time to recreate the incredible scenes that have graced our screens, we come unstuck.   

So, here we share a comprehensive guide to curating the ultimate Pinterest-worthy bedroom.  

Set The Scene  

The key to creating a bedroom that exudes comfort is all in setting the scene. And with accessible pieces from Kmart, this has never been easier.  

To start, run a mental stocktake of everything that currently fills the space. I’m talking bedframe, side tables, shelving, and anything else that plays a practical role in the overall function of the room.  

Now play around with the floor plan.  

It is said that overall sleep quality can be impacted by the layout of your space, with factors such as airflow, light and noise all playing a role in sleep disruption. So, this is the perfect opportunity to declutter where possible or make a few small swaps that can have a huge impact.  

Image: Getty Images 

A major trend we are seeing throughout the home, but particularly within the bedroom, is the incorporation of furniture with natural textures. This creates a sense of depth, as well as visual intrigue, plus the earthy tones pair perfectly with just about any colour palette.  

An easy way to bring this look into your bedroom is with a rattan or woven bedhead and side table.  

Dial Up The Dreamy  

There is nothing that says ‘Pinterest-worthy bedroom’ quite like a plush quilt and fluffy pillows. Not only will these set the tone for the perfect night’s sleep, but they also give that ‘perfectly fluffed up’ look that will have you desperate to dive back in at the end of each day.  

Here, you can also incorporate various pillow sizes, such as European or standard, to create a sense of height and depth.  

Tip: To extend the life of your pillows and keep them feeling fresher for longer, be sure to use pillow protectors. This will maintain hygiene by protecting the pillow against sweat, oil, and potential allergens.  

Image: Getty Images  

Curate Your Palette  

Once you’ve laid the groundwork for your space, it’s time to curate your colour palette. 

This is where your creativity and personal style can run wild, allowing you to create a space that is both functional and stylish.  

When it comes to bed sheets, opt for a base of subtle neutrals and natural fibres such as linens or cotton for a soft, dreamy vibe. Accent pillows, an ottoman, or a throw rug are a great way to bring in a pop of colour, while also pairing nicely with your overall palette.

Image: Supplied

Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your perfectly curated space, fit with all of the essentials to be deemed ‘Pinterest worthy’.   

For more inspiration, browse the range at Kmart today.  

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marie claire Lifestyle’s Latest Issue Is Your New Interiors Playbook https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/lifestyle-issue-12/ Thu, 14 Aug 2025 02:24:55 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1290023 The post marie claire Lifestyle’s Latest Issue Is Your New Interiors Playbook appeared first on marie claire.

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Inside The Very Chic Brisbane Home of Dissh CEO Lucy Henry-Hicks https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/home-of-dissh-ceo-lucy-henry-hicks/ Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:58:39 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1288740 Inside the new issue of marie claire Lifestyle magazine

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Our new issue of marie claire Lifestyle magazine is on sale now! Meet our cover star Lucy Henry-Hicks

Lucy Henry-Hicks doesn’t do loud. She does layers. Texture over trend. Form over fuss. Her Brisbane home – a serene, sculptural escape designed with Tigmi Trading’s in-house interiors team – is an extension of that ethos. No loud colour bursts, no maximalist moments. Just quiet luxury, sharp lines and a palette so calming you’ll want to lie down and stay awhile. “Warm, layered, textured,” is how she describes it.

Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh
The pool’s blue water pops invitingly against the outdoor area’s cream walls and tiling. The butterfly chairs are by Cuero. Image: Alicia Taylor


As the CEO of fashion brand Dissh, Henry-Hicks is no stranger to aesthetics. But home was never meant to be a showroom, it was designed as a retreat. “We live inner-city, so it was really important that the house feel like a sanctuary,” she says. “A lot of thought went into the architectural landscape design and how we could use nature to provide privacy but also a sense of calm and equanimity.”

That vision began at blueprint stage with Brisbane architect Shaun Lockyer, and was brought to life in collaboration with Tigmi – known for their curated, earthy-meets-elevated approach to interiors.

Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh
“The large floor-to ceiling windows feel like art in themselves,” says Henry-Hicks, pictured. Image: Alicia Taylor

The result? A home that feels like it’s fully relaxed. There are oversized windows framing lush greenery like gallery art, a neutral base grounded by bouclé, timber and travertine and a layout that flows like summer linen. “From the outset, we had a clear vision for a modern Californian-Mediterranean aesthetic, and this intention flowed through to every interior detail,” explains Henry-Hicks. The Nara modular sofa from Tigmi was where it all began. “As a central piece in the main living space, the sofa set the tone perfectly,” she explains.

“It’s the definition of old meets new, with its tactile – almost vintage – woven fabric paired with a modern, sculptural form.” From there, everything else followed suit: vintage timber here, rope detailing there, marble surfaces that catch the light just so. It’s a carefully curated dance between soft and hard, raw and refined. The overall effect is, of course, very chic and unbelievably calm. “I’ve learnt not to rush,” says Henry-Hicks. “Spaces need to evolve with you.”

That same mindset shapes her work at Dissh, where she’s built a brand known for timeless fashion staples. “The creative process [for interiors] is actually really similar [to fashion],” she explains. “You start with a feeling and build piece by piece.” Fashion, she says, taught her to trust her instincts: “I either feel it or I don’t and I use that instinct to guide all of my decision-making.”

Feeling is key. It’s how Henry-Hicks chooses art (slowly, intentionally and usually after some “healthy debate” with her husband, Mitchell Lau), how she styles each room and how she knows when something’s right. “We haven’t introduced much art into the house yet,” she says. “For us, the focus has been on the architecture and the way natural light moves through the space. The large floor-to-ceiling windows feel like art in themselves, framing the outdoors and drawing nature in. We’re also enjoying letting the space breathe before layering more into it.”

Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh
The property is located in Brisbane’s inner-city. Image: Alicia Taylor

While art isn’t everywhere, texture is. Bouclé, wool, rope, stone: a mix that could feel chaotic in the wrong hands, but here it’s executed flawlessly thanks to Henry-Hicks’ unerring eye for balance. “I’m naturally drawn to grounding, organic materials that bring a sense of warmth and tactility,” she says. “Bouclé and wool offer softness and comfort, while travertine and marble bring an elevated and refined finish. I also love incorporating vintage timber pieces with timeless character. For me, it’s important things feel slightly undone,” she adds.

“There’s a real beauty in imperfection. Effortless luxury is about beauty with ease. It’s not overdone. It’s thoughtful and considered but still feels natural. Comfort is just as important as aesthetic, and the pieces in our home are chosen not just for how they look but for how they make us feel.” It’s also a family home – Henry-Hicks and Lau have two young children – so while it may look picture perfect, it’s designed to be lived in. Upstairs, the master bedroom is connected to a rooftop garden and is full of natural light.

“It has this calm, grounding energy,” explains Henry-Hicks. “It’s where my day begins, with cuddles with my babies. There’s a moment of stillness before everything gets busy.” Morning routines include meditation or breathwork in the home gym, followed by tea in the garden with the children. “We talk about fairies and all the wonderful little creatures that live under the rocks and in the trees,” she shares. “The garden is a perfect space to spark little people’s imaginations.”

Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh
The olive armchair is by Italy’s Afra & Tobia Scarpa, and the walnut stool next to it is by Project 213A. The vintage five-arm floor lamp is from Tigmi Trading. Image: Alicia Taylor

Her office, by contrast, is all clarity and focus: the creative hub where ideas for Dissh are dreamed up and then refined. “My office was designed intentionally to give me a space to think, to ideate,” she says. “But I also needed boundaries, so there’s no laptops in the living areas – those are sacred family zones.” That push-pull of work and home life has become more challenging since motherhood. “Motherhood has changed me in every sense of the word,” she says.

“I say it birthed me, and I really believe that. I have become very discerning with how I use my time and energy … I’m crystal clear on what my priorities are and what’s important to me. This makes saying no and having boundaries much easier.” From a work and creativity standpoint, she says, “I usually need to block time aside and disconnect from the children for a few hours or a day to connect with myself and create.”

This clarity plays into every decision, from leadership to interiors. “At Dissh, I lead with purpose,” she explains. “At home, I lead with presence.” Her approach for both is authentic and intentional. “I try to set an example and cultivate a culture that’s inclusive, supportive and truly empowering – especially for women. It’s embedded in everything we do at Dissh.”

With regards to success, Henry-Hicks’ definition has shifted in recent times. “It’s much more about how I feel about myself and how I’m contributing to the world and my family than external measures of success,” she reflects. “While I value personal growth and love the exciting opportunities and new experiences the business allows me, there is no career achievement or material object that will make me feel successful or change the way I feel about myself.”

Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh
The dining area features a fireplace and banquette seating, while the travertine bench (below) is a standout in the kitchen. Image: Alicia Taylor

As for mistakes, Henry-Hicks is also the first to admit past design missteps. “I’ve chased trends before and regretted it,” she reveals. “Now I focus on quality and pieces I really love. They’re worth waiting for.” Her advice to anyone styling their first home? “Invest in a few timeless pieces that you genuinely love. Be intentional with layering texture rather than relying on colours. And, most importantly, let the space evolve – don’t rush it. A home should grow with you.”

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1288740 Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh Image: Supplied C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh The striking dining table was custom-designed by Tigmi Trading. The marble’s earthy hues are perfectly offset by the muted tones of the reupholstered vintage dining chairs. OPPOSITE PAGE “The large floor-toceiling windows feel like art in themselves,” says Henry-Hicks, pictured. Image: Supplied C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh Image: Supplied Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh The olive armchair is by Italy’s Afra & Tobia Scarpa, and the walnut stool next to it is by Project 213A. The vintage five-arm floor lamp is from Tigmi Trading. Lucy Henry-Hicks Dissh The dining area features a fireplace and banquette seating, while the travertine bench (below) is a standout in the kitchen. PromoBannerGIF marieclaire-1288740
The Interior Secrets Fashion’s Most Stylish Designers Swear By https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/australian-brand-founders-style/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:18:41 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1289846 Four Australian fashion insiders share their favourite pieces, design inspiration, dreams, daily rituals and more

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Great style isn’t limited to sartorial choices — it lives in the objects you cherish, the textures you return to, and the rituals that keep you inspired. For four of Australia’s most exciting fashion creatives, inspiration is shaped as much by daily life as by design vision.

They share the cities that spark their imagination, the rules they love to bend, and the small luxuries that make their worlds uniquely theirs. Consider this your invitation inside the minds of the people quietly shaping the way Australia dresses.


Deborah Sams

Founder of bassike

Australian fashion brand founders
Image: Supplied

Most treasured piece in your home?

Hans Wegner Flag Halyard chair.

Dream collaboration?

A textile Mark Rothko print would be a dream to design with.

One daily ritual that fuels your creativity?

It’s a miniseries: I start my day with a 20-minute mediation, 10 minutes of breathwork and then I jump into the ocean.

Favourite design era or movement?

The ’90s will always be my ultimate reference point. It was a decade that encompassed everything: the raw edge of grunge, the bold energy of hip-hop, and the refined restraint of minimalism.

Favourite piece from your latest collection?

Our cropped denim jacket. It’s the perfect classic blue wash and made from a heavyweight organic Japanese denim.

The design rules you love to break?

The rules of traditional gendered dressing. Blurring the lines between menswear and womenswear – especially through oversized, deconstructed tailoring – allows for a more expressive and fluid approach.

A designer who has influenced your journey?

Rei Kawakubo. I am in awe of her creative vision and inspired by her nurturing of emerging talent.

Best city for design inspiration?

Tokyo.


Lara Fells

Co-founder of St. Agni

Image: Supplied

The best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

To stay true to your vision, even when it’s not the loudest voice in the room. That’s the advice I come back to most. Also to trust my instincts; they’re often more informed than I realise.

Your favourite piece from your latest collection?

The Petit Pouch heels. I love how they feel classic but still a little quirky and fun. I’m not a big heel wearer, so the tiny heel feels approachable and easy.

Favourite bed linen?

I love fresh, crisp cotton and have a soft spot for a subtle pinstripe. Tekla is my go-to.

One daily ritual that fuels your creativity?

Laying in the sun with a big stack of visual books is my ideal way to reset and spark new ideas. I’m especially drawn to anything on art or architecture.

Dream collaboration – designer, brand or artist?

A collaboration is such a personal experience and, for me, it would need to come from a genuine connection with the brand or person. I’d love to create a St. Agni scent with Le Labo. I exclusively wear their perfumes, so translating the essence of St. Agni into a fragrance with them would feel special and authentic.

One fabric or texture you always come back to?

Woven leather is part of our core DNA. It’s a texture we revisit each season, since introducing woven leather footwear in 2017. It’s remained a constant.

The design rules you love to break?

Designing pieces that can be worn backwards. I’m always thinking of versatility and how a garment can be reinterpreted depending on the wearer.

Favourite piece of furniture?

At the moment, I’m obsessed with the Raphael Raffel “Croissant” sofa. It’s sculptural but still feels inviting – the perfect balance of form and comfort.

A designer or creative who’s influenced you?

Phoebe Philo has influenced the way I think about fashion and design. I also admire Amy Smilovic and the work she has done with her Creative Pragmatist philosophy. Her approach to dressing with intention and clarity really resonates with me. It’s about creating pieces that are thoughtful and practical, without compromising on style. I’ve also learnt so much from the women in our design team. I feel so grateful to have them.


Erin Deering

Founder of Deering

Australian fashion brand founders
Image: Supplied

Favourite restaurant?

Melbourne’s Gimlet! I got married here, so it’s a special place.

Dream Collaboration?

It would have been David Bowie. He had self-expression by the bucketload, but with such grace and eloquence. Now? Flamingo Estate. They brand build and activate like no other. So pure!

Favourite piece from your latest collection?

We are releasing a flannel three-piece set, which I’m dreaming of wearing. I am counting down the days!

One daily ritual that fuels your creativity?

I make a cacao drink every morning and set an intention for my day – a small promise to myself. It varies in terms of what I need, but I make sure I honour it.

The best piece of career advice you’ve received?

If you’re not failing, you’re not putting yourself out there enough. Go big and don’t let fear stop you.

Most loved interiors store?

Tamsin Johnson Showroom [in Sydney]. I can’t go in there or I’ll buy it all! The curation is insanely good.

Favourite design era?

Art deco. Melbourne has so many incredible buildings from this era and it makes me feel something to see them. It seemed like such a luxurious time, so beautiful and considered but still fun.

Favourite piece of furniture?

There is one incredible chair I’ve wanted for about five years: the Moooi Hortensia Armchair from Space Furniture. I think I’ll finally get it next year. I always think about it.

A designer or creative who’s influenced your journey?

It’s hard to look past [record producer] Rick Rubin as he is a “feeling over formula” creative, and I so deeply respect that.

Best city for design inspiration?

Milan, Italy! Everything is so chic, so well appointed, and everyone cares so much about detail. It’s so inspiring.


Gabriella Pereira

Co-founder of Beare Park

Image: Supplied

Favourite piece from your latest collection?

I love the Iris gown in chocolate satin. It’s so simple but has an unexpected elongated tie detail, which I feel adds decadence.

One fabric or texture you always come back to?

Australian Merino wool. It’s cool in summer and warm in winter; it’s rich in texture yet also throws the most beautiful lustre.

Favourite piece of furniture?

My parents have an original Le Corbusier black leather lounger that they have dragged all over the world. It’s at least 30 years old and has seen better days, but I love its patina and the stories it tells.

Most treasured piece in your own home?

On most work trips to Paris I will bring home a thoroughly wrapped [ceramic] piece from Astier de Villatte in my carry-on. I love the ritual of building a collection over time that is attached to the personal significance of each trip.

Favourite paint colour?

Dragon’s Eye by Porter’s Paints, because it was in my favourite room of my childhood home.

Dream Collaboration?

British artist Faye Toogood.

Favourite design era or movement?

I love excess and artisanal craftsmanship. The Baroque era’s rich colour schemes and lavish use of deep warm woods and marble inspire me greatly.

Favourite bed linen?

Cultiver.

Most loved interiors store?

Cult Design

Best city for design inspiration?

Paris.

See the full story inside the new issue of marie claire Lifestyle, on sale now

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1289846 Australian fashion brand founders Image: Supplied C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 Australian fashion brand founders Image: Supplied Australian fashion brand founders Image: Supplied C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 Australian fashion brand founders Image: Supplied PromoBannerGIF marieclaire-1289846
The Interior Gurus You’ll Want On Speed Dial https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/interior-creatives-to-love/ Tue, 12 Aug 2025 07:24:47 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1288751 Your dream home starts with these experts

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Trends may come and go, but these interiors insiders are setting the pace. With fearless style, sharp instincts, and an eye for the unexpected, they’re the names turning blank spaces into statement moments. Trust us – you’ll want them on speed dial.

Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom Of We Are Duet

If We Are Duet were a room, it would never look the same twice. One day it might be wrapped in Svenskt Tenn’s clover-leaf wallpaper; the next, stripped back to a tonal zen den, softened by a cotton waffle throw on the sofa. And that’s the whole point. Sydney-based designers Dominique Brammah and Shannon Shlom, co-founders of boutique interiors studio We Are Duet, don’t do one-size-fits-all. They shape-shift. Their work is layered, eclectic and always deeply personal – designed to reflect the people who live in it.

“Creative harmony, for us, feels like a beautifully chaotic dance,” they explain. “All the cogs in a wheel turning – each with its own beat, but moving together.” Their partnership is more than collaboration – it’s a true duet. And it’s built on trust. “Trust in each other and, crucially, trust from the client,” says Brammah.

Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom
Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom Of We Are Duet

Their signature approach? Creative ping-pong. Ideas are volleyed back and forth, refined with every pass. “It’s energising,” says Shlom. “There’s a hum between us – the hum of inspiration. Whether we’re perfectly aligned or pushing from different angles, we keep going. The duet plays on.”

The studio was born in the bleary hours of early motherhood – a 1am text thread between tile samples and a settling newborn. “That moment taught us that design doesn’t clock off; it lives in the in-between,” Brammah says. Since then, they’ve worked remotely but in sync.

There are countless voice notes, shared sketchbooks and flexible hours. “We’ve learnt to design our lives the way we design spaces: with thought, structure and plenty of room for the spontaneous,” Shlom says.

Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom
The duo transformed ‘Adalea’, a charming 1930s cottage, into a harmonious retreat that balances nostalgic romance with richly layered eclecticism

That lifestyle doesn’t just support the work, it drives it. “Our homes reflect how we want to live: engaged, textured, emotionally connected,” Brammah says. “There’s so much beauty in the world – why not invite it in?” We Are Duet spaces are joyful and always evolving. “Homes shouldn’t be staged or static,” Shlom says. “Shift a chair. Add a lamp. Keep it alive.” Still, behind the play is purpose. “We’re both capable of everything,” says Brammah, “but we respect each other’s strengths. That keeps the work balanced and layered.”

Their voice-note exchanges have become sacred. “They catch ideas in the moment,” says Shlom. “You hear the excitement, the spark.” One note stands out. “We were exhausted – end of a project, low on budget and momentum,” Brammah says. “Then I had a light-bulb idea to customise a basic fixture. I sent Shan a manic voice note. It became a bespoke piece – budget-friendly but full of personality.” For Shlom, voice notes often become design tools. “I speak the idea into being. I’ll start one place and end somewhere totally different. It’s cathartic.”

Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom
Image: Supplied

The throughline? Empathy. “It’s not just a soft skill; it’s foundational,” says Brammah. “We design for how people feel, not just what they see.” Their client process also goes deep. “We ask how do they want to live? What phase of life are they in? What’s their family rhythm?” Shlom explains. That emotional layer gives their spaces depth.

“We sit between nostalgia and aspiration,” says Brammah. “That tension is where the magic lives.” They love symmetry (matching bedside tables, please). They love meaning (a cushion made from a client’s late mother’s sarong is still one of their most treasured projects). But they’re not afraid to bend the rules. “Sometimes imbalance is the beauty,” says Shlom.

Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom
“Creative harmony feels like a beautifully chaotic dance. All the cogs turning – each with its own beat, but moving together”

In their world, there are no quick fixes; just happiness-inducing, long-hand interiors. “We’re not here to rush,” says Brammah. “We’re here to zoom in on the detail.” Their dream projects reflect their range. Brammah would love to design a boutique hotel.

“Immersive, atmospheric, a little theatrical – it’s where you can colour outside the lines.” Shlom’s dream is quieter, but just as impactful: “A women’s shelter. A place of calm, dignity and comfort.” So, if We Are Duet were a space? “It would be warm, curious and full of soul,” they say. “Vintage meets new. Colour meets calm. A space that grows with you – just like we do.”

Go to weareduet.com.au

Rachel Donath

Rachel Donath’s Melbourne home is calm, sunlit and filled with the kind of sculptural forms that have become her signature. The designer, known for her instinctive approach to interiors and quietly luxurious furniture, has built a global following in just a few short years, but her process remains remarkably simple.

“When I approach a new piece, I ask myself, ‘Will I still enjoy looking at this in 10 years?’ If the answer is no, I don’t make it,” she says.

Rachel Donath on her ‘Matisse’ dining chair
Rachel Donath on her ‘Matisse’ dining chair

That question is what drives Donath’s design philosophy. “Inherent in good design is timelessness,” she says. “Anything too trend-driven is guaranteed to bore you, or worse, irritate you once the novelty wears off.” Her work, while varied in its influences, always carries an underlying restraint – an appreciation for sculptural form, elegant materiality and objects that make a subtle statement.

Donath’s creative path has been anything but conventional. She began her career sourcing and selling vintage pieces, often from her garage, before moving into designing her own collection. Naturally, antiques continue to inform her design instinct. “I don’t work to a fixed aesthetic or era,” she says. “Like vintage sourcing, my designs are about finding something unique and surprising. I want my customers to feel that same sense of delight.”

Because of this approach, her work tends to feel curated rather than produced, with each piece standing on its own yet fitting seamlessly within her world.

Rachel Donath
Donath’s ‘Maisy’ table lamp epitomises her timeless, considered approach to design

Though the shapes may appear effortless, Donath’s designs are anything but. She collaborates closely with artisans, travelling to workshops in Vietnam and beyond to oversee the production process. “I visited some of my makers earlier this year and was blown away by their attention to detail. The level of care they bring to each piece is extraordinary,” she says.

“When you’re building a business for the long term, there is no other option but to be obsessed with quality.”

Rachel Donath
‘Senne’ mirror

Donath’s business may now have international reach, but its roots remain personal. She built her company organically, without investors or loans, starting with what she describes as “maybe $50 and a stall at a local market”. Like many entrepreneurs with limited resources, she became resourceful. “I’d find metal scraps on Facebook Marketplace and turn them into sculptures, repurpose old tables with new stone tops. When you have no choice, your creativity peaks.”

When asked for advice on creating timeless interiors, Donath is unequivocal. “Be selective about what you bring into your home. I have an aversion to clutter and consumerism for the sake of more, especially with young children. Be ruthless about what you keep and what you let go.” She also warns against seeking external approval.

“Choose what speaks to you. As soon as you start looking for validation, you lose your personal taste.” And finally, patience is key. “Sometimes people rush to furnish a space, but I’d rather live without a coffee table for a year than settle for something that doesn’t spark joy. Beautiful homes are collected over time.”

Rachel Donath
The ‘Vivi’ dining table is designed to be loved forever

Donath’s definition of luxury feels refreshingly accessible. “Luxury today is about considered spaces. It’s creating a home that reflects how you want your family to live and connect. In our house, we hid the TV behind custom joinery and made the fireplace the focal point because I wanted to encourage conversation. That, to me, is real luxury.”

If she could design anything with no restrictions, Donath wouldn’t create furniture at all. “I’d make sculptures. Huge, mixed-media pieces with presence and texture,” she says. And it’s easy to imagine her doing just that – after all, her entire career has been a lesson in trusting her instinct.

Go to racheldonath.com.au

Jade Yarbrough

With her blend of Parisian romance and Australian ease, Jade Yarbrough has redefined what it means to live with beautiful design. When Jade Yarbrough launched Merci Maison during the throes of COVID lockdowns, she wasn’t following a trend – she was following her intuition. “People were craving spaces that felt considered and personal,” she says.

“Merci Maison found its place in that moment.” As is so often the case, her instinct was right. In the years since, the brand has grown from a tight edit of sculptural furnishings and homewares to one of Australia’s most talked about design exports.

Jade Yarbrough
Jade Yarbrough describes her brand as an “artful collision of interiors, homewares and objets d’art”

At the core of Merci Maison is a clear design DNA: feminine yet structured forms that quietly draw your attention. “I always wanted Merci Maison pieces to be recognisable,” Yarbrough explains. “That’s definitely us – there’s a silhouette, a confidence. The pieces don’t overpower, but they always stand out.” From her sinuous ‘Claude’ lounge to the architectural ‘Marcel’ dining table, each creation balances elegance with intention. The effect is almost editorial – gallery-like but always inviting. “It’s bold, emotional design that still feels like home.”

The foundation of Merci Maison was actually laid years before its official launch. Working as an interior designer, Yarbrough found herself custom-making pieces out of necessity. “I couldn’t find what I was looking for, so I started designing,” she recalls. Simultaneously, she was scouring Parisian flea markets for vintage gems. “There was this clear need and shared love for pieces that had soul,” she says. “That’s when the seed was really planted.”

Jade Yarbrough
Merci Maison’s ‘Dylan’ side table

Launching during a global shutdown had its challenges – samples sent by post, Zoom calls with artisans, a slowed-down design process – but it taught Yarbrough to be “specific and meticulous”, she says. That studious approach, along with a refined eye for materiality and scale, is what gives Merci Maison its charm. Raised on Australia’s east coast, Yarbrough’s aesthetic is deeply influenced by her lifestyle. “There’s a natural desire here for indoor-outdoor living and casual elegance,” she says. “That really sits at the heart of my approach to design.” The result is furniture that feels meant to be lived with. Think refined forms, natural textures and tonal palettes that echo Australia’s relaxed beauty.

Jade Yarbrough
The ‘Franca’ walnut armchair

It’s this balance – between emotion and utility, form and function – that anchors the brand. “Beautiful pieces should still function effortlessly in everyday life,” she says. “Will it age well? Is it comfortable? Does it serve a purpose beyond looking good?” She applies the same approach to running her business. Yarbrough oversees everything from international production to creative direction, and says the biggest challenge has been learning how to manage growth.

Jade Yarbrough
An earthy and architectural Merci Maison pot

“It’s about building something lasting, not just fast.” Social media has certainly helped. Merci Maison’s presence online has allowed Yarbrough to build what she describes as “a family” – a network of creatives, stylists and muses who support and inspire one another. But she’s quick to note: “The real magic happens in the physical world. Nothing compares to seeing a piece in person.” The good news is that tactile magic may soon have a permanent address.

Yarbrough’s dream? “A dedicated Merci Maison home… Not just a showroom, more than a shop. A space to live with the pieces.” Until then, the brand continues to expand – lighting is on the horizon, as is a broader range of homewares and, of course, “Furniture that lives with you. That you want to reach out and touch. That never shouts, but is never overlooked.”

Go to mercimaison.com

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1288751 Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom Of We Are Duet Dominique Brammah And Shannon Shlom Of We Are Duet PromoBannerGIF MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images2 The duo transformed ‘Adalea’, a charming 1930s cottage, into a harmonious retreat that balances nostalgic romance with richly layered eclecticism MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images3 Image: Supplied MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images4 “Creative harmony feels like a beautifully chaotic dance. All the cogs turning – each with its own beat, but moving together” C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images9 Rachel Donath on her ‘Matisse’ dining chair MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images10 Donath’s ‘Maisy’ table lamp epitomises her timeless, considered approach to design MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images12 ‘Senne’ mirror MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images13 The ‘Vivi’ dining table is designed to be loved forever MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images14 Jade Yarbrough describes her brand as an “artful collision of interiors, homewares and objets d’art” MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images15 Merci Maison’s ‘Dylan’ side table MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images18 The ‘Franca’ walnut armchair MCL_12_LIFESTYLE_Gurus images17 An earthy and architectural Merci Maison pot C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 marieclaire-1288751
Inside Stylist Virginia Bates’ Glamorous Vintage Home in Chiswick https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/stylist-virginia-bates-london-home/ Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:19:42 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1288746 It's all about maximalist charm

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When an unrecognised New York number flashed up on Virginia Bates’ phone one evening last year, she ignored it. The caller persisted. “It was Naomi [Campbell],” says the 82-year-old style icon. “She was having a panic about her V&A show [‘Naomi in Fashion’] and wanted me to help style a space that was meant to be a dressing room in a hotel suite. I used things from my archive: props from John Galliano’s shows, gowns, Claridge’s door keys, Louis Vuitton luggage. I threw things around the floor and across furniture – it was meant to look like she had just left after getting ready in a hurry. It worked so well because the rest of the show was pristine and this was beautiful chaos.”

Virginia Bates home
The staircase from the front door is adorned with candles. Image: Mark C. O’Flaherty

This description could also be used for Virginia’s home in Chiswick, West London as it isn’t just a home, it is fashion history. With stained-glass windows and swathes of extravagantly arranged fine fabrics and lace across three storeys, it’s as if Miss Havisham had a glamorous, upbeat sister with a love of 1920s couture and a frantic social calendar. But what else would you expect from the British fashion icon, known for her eclectic style and influence on vintage fashion, especially through her famed, since-closed shop, Virginia.

Virginia Bates home
Virginia rescued the bed from her dentist’s back garden, after spotting it during a visit for a check-up. Image: Mark C. O’Flaherty

Virginia moved into the house in the long hot summer of 1976 with her husband, actor Ralph Bates. “We bought it from an old lady, who had been here with the occasional lodger, and it was really sad,” she recalls. “The 19th-century detail hadn’t been changed at all, so I saw such potential. It was brilliant.” The couple transformed it with black and white tiled floors, varnished marbled wallpaper, waxed paintwork and trompe-l’oeil touches. Victorian fixtures were uncovered, restored and customised with gold foil. They also added glamorous chandeliers, sconces, mirrors and vast amounts of fabulous architectural salvage, sourced from trips to France and the rag-and-bone men who used to pass Virginia’s boutique in Holland Park.

Virginia Bates home
Virginia Bates, wearing one of her antique gowns, sits in the basement dining room of her home. Image: Mark C. O’Flaherty

Her eponymous shop had a cult following for 42 years, until she closed it in 2013. “I hate it when people call the clothes ‘vintage,’” she says. “They are beautiful antiques. I closed the shop because I was tired of people complaining they could get something from Top Shop for £9.99.” Virginia still holds pop-ups occasionally, operating in a more specialist capacity. The furniture and fabrics from the old store now reside in her house, which she won’t allow a cleaner to go near. “I do all my own dusting because I don’t trust anyone to move anything around,” she explains.


While there are always new things coming into the house – like cushions from her designer friends Erdem and James Long of Iceberg – much of the place remains as it was when she and Ralph restyled it in the late 1970s. “One of the biggest changes we made to the house was extending the dining room in the basement,” she says. “Then we had a circle cut into the ceiling so we could look up to see the Concorde fly overhead at 10pm every night while having drinks with friends.”

Virginia Bates home
The winter garden is decorated with antique statues, plants and silversprayed branches. Image: Mark C. O’Flaherty

Ralph died from pancreatic cancer aged 51 in 1991, and Virginia is a tireless supporter of related charities, particularly the research fund named after her late husband. Their life together is still in evidence around the house, with small shrines amid the romantic chaos of candles and Tiffany lamps, including framed photos and batches of dried lavender from his grave. There’s nothing macabre about any of it: Virginia clearly still loves him dearly and feels his presence strongly. The two met on the set of the 1971 horror movie Dr Jekyll & Sister Hyde, when she was still the full-time actor Virginia Wetherell, and they quickly became one of the most glamorous couples in London.

Virginia Bates home
The library’s sofa is strewn with cushions made by friends, including fashion designers James Long and Erdem. The curtains are made from antique lace, from Virginia’s extensive collection of antique fabrics. Image: Mark C. O’Flaherty


The house was a family home as well as party central – their daughter, Daisy, was born in 1974, and son, Will, in 1977. It was because Virginia was pregnant with Daisy that she had to turn down a role in Stanley Kubrick’s film Barry Lyndon, after working with the auteur on his 1971 classic A Clockwork Orange as a bare-breasted temptress. “Everyone in London wanted to be in that film,” she recalls. “I had so many call-backs. [Stanley] was lovely to film with. He was so obsessed with detail. On my first day of filming, I was sent off with the costume designer to a lingerie store in Norwood to choose 12 pairs of knickers so Stanley could decide which would be the perfect ones for the scene.” Among Virginia’s prized possessions is a rare Clockwork Orange doll that her close friend, milliner Stephen Jones, brought back for her from Tokyo. Stephen is a regular visitor to the house, as are other friends from the fashion world as it’s still a place for gatherings and celebration.

Virginia Bates home
The view up to the winter garden’s roof, from the basement dining room’s aperture. Image: Mark C. O’Flaherty

From her role in the Doctor Who series in 1964, to her Hammer horror films and status as fashion muse to the likes of John Galliano, Virginia is a British national treasure. And 50 years after she was last a scream queen, she’s making movies again. “I’ve just done a vampire film,” she tells me. “It’s called Forever Sucks, and my actual son, Will, who is a composer in LA, plays my son. It was written and directed by his wife, the artist Sarah Bereza. I can’t say too much about it or I’ll give away the plot, but I’m a vampire that needs blood, and I had an absolute blast doing it!”
If Virginia channels the same energy on screen in 2025 as she does at home, at parties and in the front row at fashion weeks, it’s going to give the world something iconic, yet again.

See the full story in the new issue of marie claire Lifestyle, on sale now

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1288746 MCL_12_HOMES_Virginia images2 The staircase from the front door is adorned with candles. Image: Supplied MCL_12_HOMES_Virginia images11 Virginia rescued the bed from her dentist's back garden, after spotting it during a visit for a check-up. Image: Supplied MCL_12_HOMES_Virginia images Virginia Bates, wearing one of her antique gowns, sits in the basement dining room of her home. Image: Supplied PromoBannerGIF MCL_12_HOMES_Virginia images6 The winter garden is decorated with antique statues, plants and silversprayed branches. Image: Supplied MCL_12_HOMES_Virginia images12 The library’s sofa is strewn with cushions made by friends, including fashion designers James Long and Erdem. The curtains are made from antique lace, from Virginia’s extensive collection of antique fabrics. Image: Supplied C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 MCL_12_HOMES_Virginia images5 The view up to the winter garden’s roof, from the basement dining room’s aperture. Image: Supplied marieclaire-1288746
Edwina Bartholomew’s Country Escape Is All Kinds Of Charming https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/edwina-bartholomew-country-retreat/ Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:29:05 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1288744 No scripts, just serenity.

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Edwina Bartholomew and her husband Neil Varcoe weren’t actively searching for a country escape when they found Warramba, a sandstone shearer’s cottage from the 1890s nestled deep in NSW’s Capertee Valley, but they were looking for space. “We were both craving some time out of the city,” Bartholomew explains. “Neil grew up in [nearby] Lithgow, and I’d just spent three years travelling around the country with Sunrise.

Edwina Bartholomew
Bartholomew with the family’s Blue Heeler, Mate. Image: Will Horner

I really missed being in the country.” As it happened, their home found them on a quiet New Year’s Eve in 2015, while they were scrolling through real estate listings. “Neil knew the area well, which made it feel like fate,” she says. “We were so lucky to find the home we now call Warramba.” Originally, the plan was a simple renovation – “Just an IKEA kitchen and some basic improvements,” Bartholomew recalls. But as they settled in, the scope expanded. “We knew we would have this property forever, so we wanted to do our renos once and do it properly.”

Fortunately, the exterior was in excellent shape. “The sandstone and the original windows were so well preserved that we could focus our budget on the interiors,” she says. Their biggest challenge was balancing rustic charm with modern luxury without falling into cliché. “We wanted interiors that felt at home in the country but without all the obvious country tropes,” Bartholomew says. “There’s no fancy stone, no white-on-white, no farmhouse kitsch. Just simple materials and beautiful textiles.”

Edwina Bartholomew
A wool pendant light by Malaysian designer Stephanie Ng is twisted around a branch that was found on the property. Image: Will Horner

To bring their vision to life, they enlisted Felicity Slattery from Studio Esteta, a long-time friend and trusted designer. “Felicity did the most wonderful job leading the interior design,” Bartholomew says. As an interiors enthusiast, Bartholomew dove deep into sourcing furniture and decor once the fixtures were in place. “We collected antiques from Victoria, ceramics and fabrics from Japan, benches from Kyneton and serving platters from a gallery in Coonamble. The wool sorting table came from a neighbour’s clearance sale. Everything was driven up to the farm.” Her vision? “We wanted the house to feel collected, not decorated. Every item has a story and a place.”

Edwina Bartholomew
The heated aboveground mineral pool is clad in hardwood timber battens for a natural effect. Image: Will Horner

The main living room is the heart of the home. “Neil loves building fires in the fireplace, and I adore the linen curtains from Simple Studio that wrap completely around the walls,” Bartholomew says. “It gets very cold in the Capertee Valley, but this room is always cosy.” It’s here the family got ready for their wedding, and where their children have grown – from playing with blocks on the floor to making cubby houses behind the couch.

Interesting textures and meaningful details pepper the space. “I grew up in Japan and Malaysia, so I wanted the interiors to reflect that,” Bartholomew says. A wool pendant light by Malaysian designer Stephanie Ng is twisted around a branch that was found on the property. The bench seat is upholstered in antique Japanese yukata fabric, patched using sashiko, a visible mending technique. “It’s not showy, but everything has meaning.”

Edwina Bartholomew
“Everything is practical, durable and considered.” Image: Will Horner

Bartholomew emphasises that their choices are rooted in history, not trends. “It’s about our family histories – things we’ve collected, things we’ve found. That’s what makes it feel like home.” Outside, the garden echoes this thoughtful approach. “There were no plants when we moved in, except for a grapevine on the balcony. We planted every tree ourselves,” Bartholomew says. “It’s been slow but incredibly rewarding. The garden feels like an extension of the wider landscape, spilling beyond the fence line instead of stopping at it.”

Meanwhile, Varcoe has transformed the 100-acre property with sustainable, regenerative efforts. “He’s planted more than 6000 trees, introduced dung beetles to enrich the soil and uses natural sequence farming to build resilience to weather fluctuations,” Bartholomew explains. “The whole farm is designed to be sustainable. It’s our way of giving back – to leave the land better than we found it.”

Image: Will Horner

Though Warramba operates as a holiday rental, it never feels impersonal. “There are no family photos or personal effects that make you feel like you’re staying in someone else’s home,” Bartholomew says. “Everything is practical, durable and considered.” The realities of country living come with their own stories. “In the early days, we camped inside. Neil drank rainwater straight from the tap – not realising a cedar tree was poisoning the tank – and he started hallucinating and became violently ill,” Bartholomew laughs.

They also ran out of money for flyscreens. “We didn’t think we’d need them until the midges arrived. We had to move from room to room at night, lights off, trying not to get eaten alive. We installed screens very quickly after that.” There have been other memorable moments, too – a green tree frog living in the toilet, a mouse plague and termites eating the wood floors. “There’s always something to fix in the country,” Bartholomew says.

Edwina Bartholomew
The garden is full of country charm and – not surprisingly – much-loved by the couple’s kids Molly and Tom. Image: Will Horner

After a health scare last year – Bartholomew revealed her diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukaemia on Sunrise and now takes a daily tablet to manage the condition – her relationship with the farm and her approach to time shifted. “We used to rush up here, tick off 100 jobs, then rush back. Now we slow down. We walk, talk and rest. We really see it.” Phones go in a box by the door, and guests return year after year, often saying it’s the one place they feel truly grounded.

Bartholomew’s advice for anyone dreaming of restoring an historic country home? “Forget the rules. Some of the most beautiful country homes are colourful, chaotic and totally unexpected. Warramba’s muted and calm, but if I did another one, it would probably be the opposite. There really are no rules anymore. You make your own.”

warramba.com.au

See the full story in the new issue of marie claire Lifestyle, on sale now

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1288744 MCL_12_HOMES_Edwina images10 Bartholomew with the family’s Blue Heeler, Mate. Image: Supplied PromoBannerGIF MCL_12_HOMES_Edwina images12 A wool pendant light by Malaysian designer Stephanie Ng is twisted around a branch that was found on the property. Image: Supplied MCL_12_HOMES_Edwina images13 The heated aboveground mineral pool is clad in hardwood timber battens for a natural effect. Image: Supplied C_186_2025_DISSH x MC Lifestyle Assets_1920 x 1080 MCL_12_HOMES_Edwina images7 “Everything is practical, durable and considered.” Image: Supplied MCL_12_HOMES_Edwina images5 Image: Supplied MCL_12_HOMES_Edwina images11 The garden is full of country charm and – not surprisingly – much-loved by the couple’s kids Molly and Tom. Image: Supplied PromoBannerGIF marieclaire-1288744
How To Style 2025’s Most Coveted Hue https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/green-interiors-freedom/ Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:51:01 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1288640 Whether muted and mossy or bold and
botanical, green decor has proven
an interiors favourite in recent years.
Here’s why it’s not going anywhere

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Once considered a furnishing no-no, green began to creep into interiors via indoor plants and plush rugs several years ago. Since then, the hue has visibly flourished, finding its way across cushions, cabinetry, sofas and wallpaper in a range of shades.

A big reason for this popularity is the fact green partners so perfectly with neutrals, such as black, white and grey, as well as earthier accents, including wood, marble, brass, leather and rattan. So don’t hold back, it’s easy being green.

Earthy Designs

Whether you’re leaning rustic or refined, the pairing of green with brass and wood brings warmth and texture to any space. Green also shines in unexpected places, such as an earthy rug in the bedroom or a mossy marble statement in the kitchen.

Even subtle touches such as a celadon vase, a chartreuse dining chair, or a cluster of trailing indoor plants can breathe life into a tired room.

Green interiors
Images: @lucywilliamshome; @matildagoad; courtesy of Freedom

Get The Look

green interiors

Rute Scatter Cushion
$79.95 at Freedom

Delfina Counter Stool
$129 (usually $299) at Freedom

green interiors
green interiors

Kendal Floor Rug
From $799 at Freedom

green interiors

Bolster Edge Bed
$2499 at Freedom 

Biophilic Living Spaces

Lush gardens make a beautiful backdrop for a green sofa. Introduce the hue with soft furnishings and foliage, paired with natural textures, to add personality without overwhelming the space.

In maximalist homes, layered shades of green—from tiles to upholstery—bring depth, interest, and a cohesive visual rhythm.

Images: @lucywilliamshome; @matildagoad; courtesy of Freedom

Get The Look

green interiors

Lune Fabric Sofa
$2999 at Freedom

green interiors

Leo Outdoor Cushion
$41.97 (usually $59.95) at Freedom

Seaford Table Lamp
$299 at Freedom

Papilla Coffee Table
$1999 at Freedom

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1288640 Green interiors Images: @lucywilliamshome; @matildagoad; courtesy of Freedom green interiors CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-08-04T115922.683 green interiors green interiors green interiors xx (47) Images: @lucywilliamshome; @matildagoad; courtesy of Freedom green interiors green interiors CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-08-04T123050.934 CELEBS canva (1080 x 1080 px) – 2025-08-04T122035.960 marieclaire-1288640
Coffee Tables That Prove You Don’t Need Much Space For Style https://www.marieclaire.com.au/shopping/best-coffee-tables-small-space/ Fri, 01 Aug 2025 12:21:24 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1289455 Function and form

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If your couch is the protagonist of your living room, then a coffee table is the ultimate supporting character—and when you’re working with limited space, it steps into an even more important role.

Sure, it’s where you’ll park your drinks or stack your design books, but it’s also the unsung hero that can transform the entire feel and functionality of your room.


The Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces, According To maire claire:


From doubling as a dining table to housing board games, serving as an extra workspace, or even acting as a makeshift footrest during movie night, the right coffee table isn’t just a decorative piece; it’s a versatile workhorse that makes every inch count.

If you’re designing within tight square footage, keep scrolling for our favourite coffee tables that punch above their weight in both style and utility.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_Eva Hideaway Coffee Table

Designed with clever storage solutions, it features separate drawer compartments to keep everything from laptops to books neatly tucked away. The solid American oak timber frame adds a high-end feel without the hefty price tag. With a removable top for extra hidden storage and matching coasters included, it’s as practical as it is stylish.

Dimensions: 110cm x 49cm x 37cm. | Materials: Solid American oak & plywood finished with oak veneer. | Extras: One step assembly. Comes with four matching coasters made from timber offcuts.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_Castlery Mori Coffee Table

The Mori Coffee Table from Castlery is the perfect choice for small spaces. The long surface provides plenty of room for decor, while its compact, lightweight frame ensures it won’t overwhelm a smaller living area. Whether you’re sipping coffee or hosting friends, this table delivers both style and utility in one simple piece.

Dimensions: 120 x 60 x 31.3cm. | Materials: Engineered wood with oak veneer. | Extras: 30-day returns.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_Arabella Travertine Stone Coffee Table

The Arabella Travertine Stone Coffee Table is the perfect blend of contemporary design and natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for small spaces. Its sturdy, yet compact frame makes it functional for small living areas, offering a stylish surface for your coffee, books, or decorative items.

Dimensions: 35.5cm x 70cm x 70cm. | Materials: Steel with timber look finish frame, travertine tabletop | Extras: Matching side table available.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_Ethnicraft Mahogany PI Round Coffee Table

Made from rich, sustainably sourced mahogany, its circular shape and clean lines ensure it fits seamlessly into modern and traditional interiors alike. Whether placed in a tiny apartment or a compact living room, this coffee table will bring both elegance and practicality to your home.

Dimensions: Small: 650 x 650 x 410 mm. | Materials: Dark brown tainted mahogany with a varnish finish. | Extras: No assembly required.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_MCM House Jean De Coffee Table

The Jean De Coffee Table from MCM House combines mid-century charm with modern functionality, making it a perfect fit for small spaces. Featuring a sleek, geometric design with a low-profile silhouette, this table effortlessly maximises space while adding a touch of sophistication to your living area.

Dimensions: 900 cm x 380 cm. | Colours: Khaki brown & mushroom gloss finish. | Materials: Fiberglass material. | Extras: No assembly required. Membership price available.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_Koala Kirribilli Coffee Table

With its sleek, low-profile silhouette and clean lines, this table won’t overpower your room but still offers plenty of surface area for drinks, books, and decorative items. Made with sustainable materials, it’s as eco-friendly as it is stylish, and its compact size ensures it fits perfectly into any living area.

Dimensions: 110 cm x 60 cm x 36.50 cm. | Colours: Warm ash & dark ash. | Materials: Ash veneer on an MDF substrate, plywood lip with ash veneer. | Extras: Fast delivery, 120-day trial.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_Mocka Zayne Coffee Table

Featuring a modern, minimalist design with a soft beige finish, this table offers a clean and neutral aesthetic that will effortlessly complement a variety of decor styles. Its compact, round shape ensures it doesn’t overwhelm your space, while the lower shelf provides additional storage.

Dimensions: 80 cm x 39 cm. | Colours: Beige & chocolate. | Materials: MDF construction. | Extras: N/A.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_Rachel Donath Dovetail Coffee Table

With its minimalist design and natural timber finish, this table adds warmth and texture to any room without overwhelming the space. The clean, geometric lines and subtle dovetail joinery give it a refined look, while the low profile ensures it remains visually light in a smaller space.

Dimensions: 40cm x 100cm x 100cm | Materials: Oak. | Extras: Express worldwide shipping. No assembly required. Matching side table available.

Best Coffee Tables For Small Spaces_James Lane Capello Coffee Table

The Capello White & Black Viola Marble Coffee Table from James Lane combines striking design with sophisticated functionality, making it a perfect choice for small spaces. Its compact size and clean lines ensure it doesn’t dominate a space, while the spacious surface offers ample room for coffee, books, or decorative objects.

Dimensions: 80 cm x 36 cm. | Materials: Panda white marble. | Extras: Assembly required. Matching side table available.


What Is The Best Coffee Table For A Small Living Room?

The best coffee table for a small living room is compact, functional, and often multi-purpose. Look for space-saving designs like nesting tables, lift-top tables, or round coffee tables, which create visual flow without sharp corners. Options with built-in storage also help maximise small spaces.

What Size Coffee Table Is Ideal For Small Spaces?

For small spaces, a coffee table should typically be no more than two-thirds the length of your sofa and around 40-50 cm high. Compact tables around 60–90 cm in diameter or width are ideal for maintaining flow and accessibility in tight living areas.

Are Round Coffee Tables Better For Small Spaces?

Yes, round coffee tables are great for small spaces because they lack sharp corners, allowing for easier movement around them. They soften the look of a room and are ideal for tight layouts or apartment living.

What Materials Make A Room Look Bigger When Choosing A Coffee Table?

Light-reflecting materials like glass, acrylic, and light wood finishes can make a small room feel more open. Clear glass coffee tables, in particular, create the illusion of space by not visually interrupting the room.

Where Can I Buy Coffee Tables For Small Spaces In Australia?

You can find space-saving coffee tables at popular Australian retailers like IKEA, Temple & Webster, Freedom, James Lane, Rachel Donath, Mocka, Koala, MCM House, TRIT, Castley, EVA and more.

How Do I Style A Coffee Table In A Small Space?

Keep styling minimal to avoid clutter. Use a small tray to group items, add a couple of low-profile decorative pieces like a candle or small plant, and leave some empty surface space for functionality. Styling should enhance the room without overwhelming it.

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1289455 High Thread Count, Higher Standards—These Are Our Editors’ Favourite Sheets These Wooden Bed Frames Are Actually Nice To Look At Want To Add Texture To Your Bedroom? This Essential Has You Covered MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (2) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (4) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (6) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (1) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (3) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (5) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (9) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (7) MCELLE Horizontal Body Image (8) marieclaire-1289455
If Your Shower Is Your Sanctuary, This Chic Addition Will Level Up Your Self-Care https://www.marieclaire.com.au/shopping/shower-accessories/ Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:01:20 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1287600 Your own personal wellness escape!

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There’s something undeniably sacred about a good shower. It’s a step away from the outside world, where you can be embraced by your favourite scents and let your thoughts unravel.

For most modern women, a daily shower is less of a routine, and more of a ritual.

In a fast-paced world, our bathrooms have quietly evolved to become a sanctuary for solitude and self-care.

No longer purely functional, our bathrooms have been designed and decorated, styled and scented to be an ultimate place of calm.

For those who believe that every detail counts, The Smallest Room—an Australian luxury homewares brand—is a brand that is worth putting on your radar.

The founder, Julia, is a Brisbane-based mum who confesses to loving life’s little luxuries, which led her to create the Chapter One Stool.

(Credit: The Smallest Room)

The Chapter One Stool is an architectural bathroom stool that can be used to store your favourite products and ensure they’re always within reach. It can also be used during daily rituals such as bathing children, shaving your legs, or as a footrest while exfoliating or shaving.

Inspired by ancient baths, the stool is designed to be styled both in the bathroom and around the home. However, more than just a design piece, it’s an invitation to rest and recharge.

“When life gets busy and schedules fill up, our personal time seems to disappear,” Julia says. “When our homes and lives begin to overflow, sometimes the only place we can find sanctuary is under the shower.”

In a busy life, the smallest moments—like a quiet shower—can make the biggest difference. And now, your bathroom can reflect that too.


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1287600 image Square – 2025-07-24T154241.534 Square – 2025-07-24T154528.938 Square – 2025-07-24T154454.330 Square – 2025-07-24T154558.221 marieclaire-1287600
12 First Nations Artists You Need To Know About https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/first-nations-artists-jade-akamarre/ Sun, 06 Jul 2025 23:04:37 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1285094 To mark 50 years of NAIDOC Week, Jade Akamarre reflects on how the next generation is shaping art on the global stage

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For me, art has never just been about creating something beautiful, it’s always been tied to family, 
to culture and to a sense of belonging. I come from four generations of artists from the Utopia region in the Northern Territory, with our family’s legacy starting back in the 1980s through my great-grandmother, Minnie Pwerle, my grandmother, Barbara Weir, and my great-great aunt, Emily Kame Kngwarreye.

Growing up surrounded by their paintings, stories and deep connection to Country shaped me in ways I didn’t even realise 
at the time. Art wasn’t just something 
we did, it was something we lived. Every 
painting carried knowledge, stories and a responsibility to keep that connection alive.

As I’ve grown into my own practice I’ve seen how much Aboriginal art has evolved. What once felt hidden away or undervalued is now being shown in leading galleries, auction houses and luxury collaborations worldwide. There’s a growing respect for Aboriginal art as fine art in its own right – complex, powerful and deserving of space on the 
global stage.

With that, more Aboriginal artists are reclaiming control over their stories and place. The original symbols that are used to tell our stories are still present in Aboriginal art today. These symbols have been passed down through generations, carrying meaning about Country, ancestors and our dreamtime stories. In my own work, I honour these traditional symbols – tracklines, bush foods and sacred sites – while also bringing in my own perspective.

My paintings are inspired by an aerial view of my grandmother’s country, Atnwengerrp, almost like a talking map from the sky. They show the landscape, the song lines, and the knowledge embedded in that land. The meanings stay the same, but how we share them shifts with time, experience and new ways of seeing the world. Today I see so many Aboriginal artists pushing boundaries and blending the old with the new.

Jade Akamarre as child with her great-great aunt, renowned artist Emily Kame Kngwarreye.

We’re seeing our art translated into fashion, architecture, digital spaces and large scale public works. That’s exciting to me! It’s 
not about leaving tradition behind, but rather carrying it forward into new spaces and making sure our ancestors’ stories are seen and heard 
in places they’ve never been shared before. My journey with art really began when 
I was a toddler, sitting beside my nannas 
as they painted.

I was only two years old, sitting beside my great-great aunt, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, with a cardboard box and a paintbrush, trying to copy her – always watching, always fascinated. I went on to spend a decade in the fashion world, but as I grew older, I deepened my knowledge and better understood what had been passed down to me. I felt a stronger pull back and responsibility to my culture.

The more I learnt, the more I realised that this wasn’t just something I loved; it was something I needed to do. Choosing to make art my path wasn’t just a career move, it was a way to honour my family, my culture and everything that’s been entrusted to me. [My great-grandmother’s] fearless expression has left a legacy that lives in me and many others. My gallery, Pwerle, is in honour of her.

First Nations Artists To Note

Minnie Pwerle

Title: Awelye Atnwengerrp. Year: 2006.

My great-grandmother, Minnie Pwerle (who I named my gallery after), painted with unstoppable energy. This work represents women’s ceremonial body-painting designs.

The energetic lines and bold marks express connection to Country, kinship and the passing down of cultural knowledge through generations.

Barbara Weir

Title: Grass Seed. Year: 2021.

My grandmother, Barbara Weir, is a powerful voice in contemporary Aboriginal art. Her work embodies both personal resilience and deep cultural memory. A member of The Stolen Generations, she overcame immense adversity to reconnect with her family, heritage and become a celebrated artist and community leader.

Her Grass Seed Dreaming paintings are mesmerising, delicate, layered compositions that honour the traditional practices of Aboriginal women who gathered native grass seeds for survival.

Kaylene Whiskey

Title: Dolly Parton and Tina Turner. Year: 2019.

Kaylene Whiskey’s vibrant, detailed paintings celebrate strong Aboriginal women, often blending pop culture icons such as Wonder Woman and Tina Turner with life in her remote desert community.

Her work playfully bridges traditional Anangu practices – such as bush tucker gathering and mingkulpa (tobacco plant) cultivation – with contemporary influences, reflecting two cultures and generations with humour and joy. The result is a bold and layered expression of modern Indigenous identity. Her work makes you smile and think. 

Niah Mcleod

Title: Minga. Durum Gadju ~ Three Mothers. Year: 2024.

Niah McLeod’s gentle, spiritual works explore lineage and emotional healing. Her visual language carries a quiet intensity, honouring the strength of women and ancestral guidance.

This work tells the story of the generational wisdom of grandmothers, daughters and granddaughters, who together weave a tapestry of guidance, creating a path that recognises the past and
lights the way for those who will follow.

Glenda McCulloch & Cheryl Perez Of Cungelella Art

Title: Kalkatungu Country. Year: 2024.

The Kalkatungu sisters infuse their works with colour, culture and kinship. Their art radiates pride and belonging, merging traditional stories with a refined, modern aesthetic. Together, they are redefining contemporary Aboriginal art while staying rooted in ancestral identity.

This work reflects our stories through intricate patterns, with each element holding meaning, making it visually striking and culturally significant.

Hannah Lange

Title: Rockpools. Year: 2024.

A proud Wiradjuri woman, Hannah Lange paints with grace and thoughtfulness. Her art captures the spiritual elements of land and water with such softness, clarity and strength.

This work is inspired by the dance of water and stone, where the still water echoes the stories of our ancestors. The asymmetrical shapes are an art form in themselves and show off the beauty of Country. 

Charmaine Pwerle

Title: Women’s Business – Old Time Way. Year: 2023.

My aunty, Charmaine Pwerle, preserves a legacy of love, strength and cultural continuity through her brushstrokes and dot work. This painting (above) captures the final story passed down to her by her late mother, Barbara Weir, a deeply sacred narrative about traditional childbirth practices in the bush.

It honours the role of women as knowledge keepers, midwives and nurturers, revealing a time when birth was a ceremonial journey shared among women and passed from one generation to the next. 

Lisa Khan

Title: Tjukurpa Minyma Ngintaka. Year: 2025.

Lisa Khan’s art is grounded in the ancestral stories of her Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara heritage. Her work channels Country with bold, unapologetic power and cultural integrity. This painting is a visual embodiment of an important inma (a ceremonial song and dance) that connects people to Country.

Alison Munti Riley

Title: Kungka Kutjara (Two Women). Year: 2023.

Alison Munti Riley paints ancestral stories with care and reverence. Her work Kungka Kutjara honours the journey of two sisters travelling across the desert, echoing themes of kinship, obedience and longing. Her work moves me deeply because it speaks to the heart and spirit of lived experience.

Gloria Petyarre

Title: Bush Medicine. Year: 2008.

Gloria is my aunty and someone I deeply admired growing up. Being in her presence was healing, and her strength and spirit left a lasting impression on me. Her series Bush Medicine is among the most iconic in Aboriginal art, featuring swirling brushstrokes that capture the movement and energy of medicinal leaves gathered by Anmatyerre women.

This painting pays homage to the healing plants of her heritage, particularly the Kurrajong tree’s leaves, which are used in medicinal preparations. Her swirling brushstrokes reflect the movement of the leaves, the plant’s vitality, and its significance in Aboriginal culture.

Emily Kame Kngwarreye

Title: Wildflower Dreaming. Year: 1994.

Emily Kame Kngwarreye is my great-great aunt and one of Australia’s most important artists, who has redefined Aboriginal art on a global scale and continues to inspire me. As a toddler, I watched her paint in awe.

This work reflects Emily’s profound connection to her ancestral country, Alhalkere. Through vibrant colour fields and rhythmic dotting that illustrate the seasonal bloom of desert flora, she captures the spiritual and ecological cycles of the land. 

Mary Dhapalany

Title: Dhawurr or Batjbarra (Fish Trap). Year: 2024.

Based in Arnhem Land, Mary Dhapalany is a renowned fibre artist who creates woven fish traps using naturally dyed pandanus.

Her work is functional and ceremonial, shaped by generations of women who understand how land, water and survival are intricately interwoven.

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1285094 Jade Akamarre Minnie Pwerle Barbara Weir Kaylene Whiskey Niah Mcleod Glenda Mcculloch and Cheryl Perez Hannah Lange Charmaine Pwerle Lisa Khan Alison Munti Riley Gloria Petyarre Emily Kame Kngwarreye Mary Dhapalany marieclaire-1285094
Steve Cordony and Castlery Just Redefined What Modern Home Style Looks Like  https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/castlery-steve-cordony-brand-ambassador-collaboration/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 23:06:28 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1284859 Curated. Comfortable. Chic.

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There are brand partnerships, and then there’s this the kind that makes you double-take, bookmark, and start mentally redecorating your living room. 

Castlery has officially tapped Australia’s reigning king of elevated interiors, Steve Cordony, as its first-ever brand ambassador – and the collaboration is everything you’d hope from a match this chic. Think: heritage home meets contemporary cool, styled with Cordony’s signature less-is-more luxe. 

The partnership launches with an exclusive Autumn/Winter capsule ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’, shot entirely at the stylist’s sprawling Rosedale Farm in the NSW country town of Orange (which, FYI, is currently on the market if you’re after the ultimate country estate). The collection is a vibe – moss green swivel armchairs, a large leather recliner (yes, recliners can be chic), sculptural marble coffee tables, and layers of tonal texture that feel as good as they look. 

“I’m not interested in interiors that just look good. They need to work, to last, to actually make sense for the way we live,” Cordony told marie claire at the launch event. “That’s where Castlery gets it right. The pieces are beautiful, yes, but they’re also smart and incredibly considered.” 

Steve Cordony and Castlery's new collaboration
The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection
The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection
The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection

SHOP Castlery Amber Swivel Chair, $729; Castlery Mori Coffee Table, $459; Castlery Fable Leather 3 Seater Sofa, $4698; Castlery
Olwen Side Table, $499

In The Media Lounge, it’s the Jaron Leather Recliner Sofa that steals the scene – cloud-soft and oversized without ever tipping into bulky. It’s a recliner, sure, but reimagined with sleek lines and feather-wrapped comfort. “I didn’t think I was a recliner person,” Steve admits. “But then I tried this one, and I was like… okay, I get it.” 

It pairs beautifully with the Arcadia Storage Combination, which manages to hit that elusive sweet spot between functional and fabulous. Equal parts display and disguise, it’s the kind of piece that turns clutter into character. 

Over in The Grand Dining Room, Cordony sets the scene for entertaining that feels effortless. A rustic-modern mix of form and function, the space features the tactile Landon Dinner Set layered with Castlery’s Prism Glassware and the vibrant Verdant Pitcher.

In The Conversation Room, it’s all about flow and invitation. The Fable Leather Sofa anchors the space with its sculptural curves, joined by two Amber Swivel Chairs that look like they’re made for long conversations and lazy Sunday lounging. “It’s a room that welcomes people in,” Cordony says. “It’s not precious. It’s meant to be lived in.” 

Meanwhile, The Bedroom Retreat offers a softer, more pared-back take. The Harper Bed and 6-Drawer Dresser bring a sense of calm with their rounded edges and rich wood tones, accented by the subtle detailing of tambour fronts and warm, tactile finishes. “At the end of the day, your bedroom should be your reset zone,” he adds. “It’s about warmth, not wow-factor.” 

The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection
The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection

SHOP: Castlery Jaron Leather Recliner 3 Seater Sofa, $4898; Castlery Muna Area Rug, $2599; Castlery Elio Marble Round Coffee Table, $999

It’s a sentiment echoed by Castlery co-founder Declan Ee, who describes Cordony’s appointment as a “natural fit.” Both parties are driven by a love of great design, but also by a desire to make that design work hard. “We’ve admired Steve’s work for a long time,” says Ee. “He has this rare ability to elevate a space while still making it feel warm, real and lived-in.” 

And let’s be honest, lived-in luxury is the new design currency. Gone are the days of showroom-perfect interiors. Now, it’s all about pieces that are clever, adaptable, and full of personality. That’s part of Cordony’s appeal – and why Castlery’s refined but accessible aesthetic feels like such fertile ground for his style to flourish. 

At Rosedale, Cordony reimagined every corner of the home with considered restraint, clearing rooms completely and rebuilding them from the ground up using his Castlery edit. The results? Unsurprisingly stylish. Surprisingly cosy. And completely shoppable. 

The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection
The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection

SHOP: Castlery Arcadia Storage Combination, $3698

The collaboration goes beyond just furniture, too. Cordony will host styling workshops, lead curated events, and offer insider access to his creative process – bringing his design philosophy directly to Castlery’s customer base. 

“I’ve always believed great interiors should feel inclusive, not intimidating,” Cordony says. “Whether you’re decorating your first flat or renovating your forever home, there’s always a way to make it yours – and make it beautiful.” 

To celebrate the launch, a handpicked group of editors and insiders gathered at Rosedale for an exclusive lunch and behind-the-scenes look at the collection. The mood? Think candlelight, layered textures, and table conversations that lasted well into the afternoon. In short: a masterclass in modern hosting. 

The full Castlery x Steve Cordony collection is now live on a dedicated landing page, where shoppers can explore Steve’s picks, access styling tips, and score a limited-time promo code. It’s personal. It’s polished. And, just like Steve himself, it’s a little aspirational – without ever being out of reach. 

Go to castlery.com

The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection
The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection

SHOP: Castlery Sloane Cane and Leather Chair, $738

The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection
The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection

SHOP: Castlery Harper Bed, $2399; Castlery Nola Area Rug, $899; Castlery Harper 6-Drawer Dresser, $2199; Castlery Aria Wall Mirror, $269

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1284859 Steve Cordony and Castlery’s new collaboration The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection The new ‘Curated by Steve Cordony’ collection The new 'Curated by Steve Cordony' collection marieclaire-1284859
3 Inviting Interior Moods To Try This Winter & Love Year-Round https://www.marieclaire.com.au/shopping/home-tech/winter-interior-design-home-decor-ideas/ Mon, 16 Jun 2025 04:52:25 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1284246 Seasonal style with perennial appeal

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Winter is well and truly here, bringing with it an instinctual pull to surround ourselves with comforts of the cosy kind.

Just as summer wardrobes are cleared out to make way for the season’s outfit essentials – so too should the spaces we turn to when the temperature drops; our homes.

But turning your interiors into havens of hibernation involves more than just swapping out your bed sheets (although an easy winter win) or tucking in and turning the heat up. It’s about creating a cocoonlike environment replete with homely accents and inviting layers – all made for hunkering down in style.

To help you embrace the chill, we asked three designers to share their top winter styling tips and mood-making interior directions to envelop your home in warmth.

Texture Renaissance

A neutral coloured living room with a large still life painting on the wall.
Photography: Mike Karlsson Lundgren; Image from Defining Style: The Book of Interior Design by Joan Barzilay Freund.

“As with my collections, I prioritise the interplay of various textures and contrasts in my home,” Maja Dixdotter tells writer Joan Barzilay Freund in the new book Defining Style: The Book of Interior Design.

In her Swedish country home in Österlen, an ottoman (pictured) features a rope fringed cover by Cappelen Dimyr, the rug company Dixdotter founded in 2019. “I am inspired by surfaces and the tactility of materials,” she says.

Get The Look

Freedom burl wood mirror

Blackheath Floor Mirror
$479.20 (usually $599) at Freedom

Trit House Hover Table Lamp

Hover Table Lamp
$105 at Trit House 

Hommey Alpaca Throw

Merino Alpaca Throw
$299 at Hommey 

Sheet society linen cushion

Eve Linen Cushion
$60 (usually $105) at Sheet Society

A creamy palette harmonises well with the natural wool and linen textiles. I incorporate more pigmented hues through paintings, ceramics and other elements

Maja Dixdotter

Personality Matters

A purple and pink living room with a white dining table.
Photography courtesy of Atelier ND; Image from ‘Defining Style: The Book of Interior Design’ by Joan Barzilay Freund.

Dutch Actor Carice van Houten (of Game of Thrones fame) describes herself as “a walking colour explosion.”

Given her self-proclaimed trademark is eclecticism, it’s no surprise that the 1918 Brownstown she owns in Amsterdam is a dramatic expression of vibrant hues and bold patterns.

A joyful pink table by Sabine Marcelis centres the room, with Pigreco dining chairs by vintage Afra and Tobia Scarpa for Gavina, which date back to the 1960s.

Get The Look

Bloomingville Callo Glass Vase Trit House

Bloomingville Callo Glass Vase
$139 at Trit House

Addison Ross Denim Bobbin Led Lamp

Ray Ban Lady Burbank
$248 at Addison Ross

Defining Style The Book of Interior Design Joan Barzilay Freund

Defining Style: The Book Of Interior Design
$100 at Abbey’s

Carlotta and gee violet duvet cover

Carlotta + Gee Linen Duvet Cover in Violet
$305 at The Iconic 

The key to infusing a home with strong colour, is to string threads of tonal similarity from room to room

Interior Designer, Nicole Dohmen of Atelier ND

Curves Ahead

A curved white sofa in a living room. A staircase framed with sculptural railings is in the background.
Photography: Felix Forest.

In his book Moments At Home, Steve Cordony says he likes spaces to feel connected and intimate.

“The soft irregularity of the Minotti sofa is juxtaposed against the graphic linearity of the table and the geometric patterning of the iron balustrade, with the neutral yet textured colour scheme pulling it all together so it doesn’t feel too cluttered,” says Cordony.

Get The Look

Rachel Donath Lavigne side table

Lavigne Side Table
$630 at Rachel Donath

Miss Amara Valerie Ivory and Grey Distressed Tribal Rug

Valerie Distressed Tribal Rug 
from $224 at Miss Amara

Castlery Solange performance boucle chair

Solange Performance Boucle Chair
$699 at Castlery 

Robert Gordon peacock Vase

Robert Gordon Peacock Vase
$39.95 at Myer 

I love using a neutral background, especially a crisp white wall, to allow design elements like art, rugs and fabrication to pop. My favourite colour to paint the wall is Porter’s Popcorn

Interior Stylist, Steve Cordony

Related articles:

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1284246 MC Lifestyle June 2025 Winter home decor trends Photography by Mike Karlsson Lundgren; Image from ‘Defining Style: The Book of Interior Design’ by Joan Barzilay Freund. Freedom burl wood mirror Trit House Hover Table Lamp Hommey Alpaca Throw Sheet society linen cushion MC Lifestyle June 2025 Winter home decor trends Photography courtesy of Atelier ND; Image from ‘Defining Style: The Book of Interior Design’ by Joan Barzilay Freund. Bloomingville Callo Glass Vase Trit House Addison Ross Denim Bobbin Led Lamp Defining Style The Book of Interior Design Joan Barzilay Freund Carlotta and gee violet duvet cover MC Lifestyle June 2025 Winter home decor trends Photography: Felix Forest. Rachel Donath Lavigne side table Miss Amara Valerie Ivory and Grey Distressed Tribal Rug Castlery Solange performance boucle chair Robert Gordon peacock Vase marieclaire-1284246
Angela Tiatia’s Sydney Terrace Is A Vibrant Fusion of Art and Culture https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/angela-tiatia-sydney-terrace/ Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:32:12 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1282918 When artist Angela Tiatia approached architect Bianca Pohio to design the renovation of her Paddington terrace, she asked for a pink house and a red kitchen. “I’m Samoan, and my sense of home is tied to my culture. My grandmother’s home in Samoa was bright green and yellow, and my mum lined the edges of […]

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When artist Angela Tiatia approached architect Bianca Pohio to design the renovation of her Paddington terrace, she asked for a pink house and a red kitchen. “I’m Samoan, and my sense of home is tied to my culture. My grandmother’s home in Samoa was bright green and yellow, and my mum lined the edges of our living room ceiling with plastic red roses in our home in Aotearoa. It’s a very eccentric and colourful culture,” explains Tiatia. “But Bianca gently said, ‘No,’ and took over the whole thing!”

Angela Tiatia’s Sydney terrace
A bench cleverly extends from the fireplace hearth; above it, a painting by Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori. Image: Dave Wheeler

In approaching the design, Pohio was cognisant of Tiatia’s art collection. “They understood what I actually needed wasn’t a red kitchen, but lots of white walls to honour the artworks that I’ve assembled over a lifetime.” Pohio encouraged Tiatia to also hang her own art in the home. “I resisted this at first as it felt conceited to show my own work. But Bianca really pushed me to be proud of displaying my work in my home. I’m so glad we did. It ties together the story of my life, my artmaking and the spaces in my home.” Tiatia, who grew up between New Zealand, Samoa and Australia, has a strong interest in representations of Pacific identity, which began when she was 22. “I remember finding a Polynesian Barbie. The box included a one-dimensional description of the doll’s life and the Pacific culture she apparently hailed from.

This odd caricature of an Island woman left me feeling puzzled. Turning to online marketplaces, I began to acquire objects that perpetuated Pacific stereotypes from around the world, including a rare ceramic ashtray made in the shape of a ‘hula girl’ with the words ‘Turn me over’ written across her. When you turn it over, it shows her completely nude.” It became clear to Tiatia, now 51, that these objects and images of Pacific people were being made by those who had no connection to the Pacific and were sold to people with no connection to the Pacific.

Angela Tiatia’s Sydney terrace
Figurines bought on eBay are part of Tiatia’s collection of fetishised South Pacific memorabilia. Image: Dave Wheeler

It was a market feeding into a self-perpetuating loop of the fetishisation of Pacific culture. She uncovered search tags created and used by eBay collectors that spoke directly to the demeaning nature of how they imagined the Pacific. “People use search terms like ‘bare-breasted savage woman’, ‘sexy hula girl’, ‘nude Polynesian maiden’ and every other derogatory name you can imagine.

I was both repelled and fascinated by this nomenclature and decided to research this to inform my practice. So I used these phrases to search for items to buy on the internet – to eventually rematriate them.” This formed the basis of Tiatia’s Foreign Objects (2012) artwork, which has been exhibited in Germany, Denmark and New Zealand. Foreign Objects displayed these objects in grandiose vitrines and cabinets, conferring a preciousness to the objects inconsistent with their kitsch and racist reductions of Pacific culture and identity. Displayed en masse, the non-Pacific narrative of the passive, sexually available female and the male aggressor is palpable.

Angela Tiatia’s Sydney terrace
Tall shelving units allow for elegant displays of items and artworks, such as this ceramic by Claudia Nicholson. Image: Dave Wheeler

Several of these objects can be seen around her home: Marwal busts, ceramic nude female figurines, Pacific Island postcards and Hollywood film posters. “It reminds me how far we’ve come in terms of representation, and in rejecting how we are seen through the eyes of non-Pacific Islanders. We resist these one-dimensional narratives.” This theme of resistance and full, nuanced representations of Pacific culture underpins many artworks Tiatia and her husband, Kieren Cooney, own. Artists like Rakai Karaitiana, who introduced Tiatia to her husband more than 30 years ago, and photographer Mark Smith, who is also a long-time friend.

Others honour her deeply personal connections to her fellow artists. “We admire and love them very deeply. We love their commitment to their work, their eyes, their politics – these are artists who have so much integrity and heart.

My mentor Jim Vivieaere used to say, ‘If I like the artist, I like their work,’ and this is true for Kieren and me.” Supporting Indigenous and people of colour artists is non-negotiable for the couple. “When artworks made by brown and black artists are displayed en masse, you can see a powerful narrative of a united stand in self-representation and community empowerment.” This includes Kaylene Whiskey’s Sulman Prize-winning Kaylene TV, which Tiatia chose when she judged the prize in 2018, and Vincent Namatjira’s study for a portrait of Tony Albert; the finished painting was shortlisted for the Archibald Prize in 2019.

Living Room
In the busy living room, a study of Tony Albert by Vincent Namatjira gazes from over the fireplace. The finished version was an Archibald Prize finalist in 2019. Image: Dave Wheeler

At Tiatia’s 1890s terrace house, much of Pohio’s renovation focused on creating a dramatic kitchen/dining area at the north-facing rear, which is now an open-plan cooking and entertaining hub, where glazed doors open to a sun-filled terrace and garden. The art collection is roughly divided between the minimalist downstairs living room and the more energetic salon hang of the upper level. “In the past, everything was hung every-where, even above the toilet,” says the artist. “With Bianca’s guiding hand, we wanted to be more thoughtful about the relationships between the artworks.

Angela Tiatia’s Sydney terrace
The dining table is powder-coated steel in teal blue, with the garden beyond and a work by Tiatia above. Image: Dave Wheeler.

Although I’m a maximalist at heart – someone who wants a red kitchen – we thankfully now have a sanctuary. It’s very minimal and clean. If we didn’t force restraint in our home, we would probably be hanging works on top of other works. Thank goodness for Bianca.

This is an edited extract from Collecting: Living with Art by Kym Elphinstone (Thames & Hudson, $79.99). Out now.

Shop The Look

AERO Leather Sofa By Freedom
Was $3,999 now $3,399 at Freedom

HOGAN Floor Rug By Freedom
Was $399, now $139.65 at Freedom

BICHON Scatter Cushion By Freedom
Was $59.95, now $38.95 at Freedom

ROYAL Side Table By Freedom
Was $599, now $359 at Freedom

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1282918 Angela Tiatia’s Sydney terrace A bench cleverly extends from the fireplace hearth; above it, a painting by Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori. Image: Dave Wheeler Angela Tiatia’s Figurines Figurines bought on eBay are part of Tiatia’s collection of fetishised South Pacific memorabilia. Image: Dave Wheeler Angela Tiatia’s Sydney terrace Tall shelving units allow for elegant displays of items and artworks, such as this ceramic by Claudia Nicholson. Image: Dave Wheeler Living Room In the busy living room, a study of Tony Albert by Vincent Namatjira gazes from over the fireplace. The finished version was an Archibald Prize finalist in 2019. Image: Dave Wheeler Angela Tiatia’s Sydney terrace The dining table is powder-coated steel in teal blue, with the garden beyond and a work by Tiatia above. Image: Dave Wheeler. celebs-canva-1080-x-1080-px-52-684a63f03cf55 celebs-canva-1080-x-1080-px-54-684a6555dd5da celebs-canva-1080-x-1080-px-53-684a64940a9fa celebs-canva-1080-x-1080-px-55-684a65fed9b88 marieclaire-1282918
Margot Robbie’s LuckyChap Just Created The Coolest Office You’ll Ever See  https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/margot-robbie-luckychap-office-design/ Wed, 28 May 2025 08:19:56 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1283116 Step inside

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Margot Robbie may be one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, but when it comes to work, she’s not exactly what you’d call an “office person.”

“I don’t like sitting in one room for a long time – I get antsy,” she told Architectural Digest magazine in a recent article on her new office. And yet, since LuckyChap Entertainment’s new Los Angeles HQ opened its doors, Robbie finds herself clocking more hours there than she ever expected. “As beautiful as my office is – and it’s incredibly beautiful – I spend way more time there than I imagined I would.” 

It’s not hard to see why. The 5,000-square-foot former fish shop has been transformed into a chic, cinematic, and deeply personal workspace for the company’s founders – Robbie, her husband Tom Ackerley, and longtime collaborator Josey McNamara.

With hits like I, Tonya, Saltburn, and Barbie under their belt (not to mention the new dark comedy Sirens streaming now on Netflix), the LuckyChap team wanted an office that reflected their singular point of view – bold, female-led, and unafraid to rewrite the rules. 

“We were never into the idea of conference rooms or poster-plastered walls,” says tells AD. “We wanted it to feel like a creative home, not a CV.” 

To bring their LuckyChap office vision to life, they enlisted interior designer Scarlett Hessian – a close friend and longtime collaborator – who was initially stunned by the building’s previous life. “When they showed it to me, I was a bit horrified,” she laughs. But the bones were promising – vaulted ceilings, a mezzanine flooded with natural light, and architectural nods to classic mid-century design. Hessian leaned in, blending European antiques with tactile layers to create what Ackerley calls “a house-style, familial feeling.” 

There’s an oak-panelled kitchen that anchors the space – a fully functioning galley where the team cooks breakfast and eats lunch together. A coffee bar, with an antique mirrored backsplash and a café-grade espresso machine, has become an unlikely weekend destination. 

Every corner of the space resists corporate clichés. There’s no LuckyChap logo on the wall. Instead, details speak in whispers. A conference table in blush pink gently nods to Barbie, while reupholstered chairs from the film’s Mattel boardroom scene (yes, the ones Will Ferrell sat in) are now used for everyday meetings. Awards are discreetly hidden in bookshelves – BAFTAs and Golden Globes discovered accidentally, like Easter eggs.  

The LuckyChap offices are as idiosyncratic as the people who use them. Robbie’s is designed for movement, with a double-sided desk, plush sofa, and a laptop table that slides to meet her wherever she lands. There’s wall-to-wall carpet to soften sound and mood. But even then, she’s drawn to the outdoors. There’s also a rooftop garden with butterfly-friendly plants, vintage planters, and C&C Milano cushions flecked with red.  

Are you thinking what we’re thinking – any vacancies?  

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Sarah Parry-Okeden Brings American Sensibility To The Southern Highlands https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/wild-orchid-spaces-romney-house-sarah-parry-okeden/ Fri, 23 May 2025 07:23:55 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1282533 Step inside Romney House, the sprawling estate the designer calls home

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Sarah Parry-Okeden is the type of woman whose Instagram algorithm serves her reels of mini cows roaming around kitchens, which is probably why she feels so at home in the Southern Highlands, in country New South Wales.

Here, it’s not beyond the realms of possibility that a cow could just wander into your kitchen. At Romney House there are no cows (yet), although to the left you’ll spot a large chicken coop, home to an ever-expanding collection of hens. The founder of interior design studio Wild Orchid Spaces has recently finished an extensive two-year renovation on the Bowral property, where she now lives with her husband, Henry, two children, Ollie and Ruby, and their honey-hued dog, Sheldon.

A woman with long blonde hair sitting on a chair wearing light blue pants and a navy blazer.
Parry-Okeden in one of her living spaces; she enjoys blurring the boundaries between interiors and nature. Photography: Will Horner

The first thing you notice, as you follow a luxuriously long driveway lined with established Liquidambar trees – so plentiful you couldn’t possibly be anywhere but the country – is the garden. It’s rather spectacular and there’s not an out of shape Buxus hedge in sight.

Even the grass looks fake (it’s not). It makes sense, given one of Parry-Okeden’s design principles is to “blur the boundaries between interiors and nature”.

A picture of a paved garden path leading to a house with a pitched roof.
The impressive garden is a major feature of the property. Photography: Will Horner

It’s an approach she learnt from her late mother Helen’s love of gardens, and why every room comes with a view of the property’s formal gardens. It all serves as a reminder that one of the greatest luxuries in life is having a garden to gaze out at (along with having no neighbours looking at you).

“Nature genuinely makes us happy,” she says. “There’s so much research that has been done around the connection between green spaces and happiness. For me, it brings calmness, creativity and just generally puts me in a better mood.”

A collection of pots and planters in a cluster outside.
Photography: Will Horner

Given that it’s now – as Parry-Okeden describes – “a sunlit sanctuary”, it is hard to imagine that pre-renovation the home was incredibly dimly lit. To bring in light, she removed the entire rear wall of the home and installed a Crittall glasshouse-style extension.

There are multiple full-length glass doors (all spotlessly clean) which frame the gardens and flood the space with natural light. She also installed a large mirror on the ceiling of the kitchen, to give the illusion of more space and light.

A living room with high glasshouse-style ceiling.
Within the Crittall glasshouse-style extension, the rattan and glass dining table is by Bodhi Living, the chairs are by Dill & Johan Furniture, the pendant light is vintage Barovier & Toso and the two artworks behind it are by Australia’s own Arthur Boyd. Photography: Will Horner

You also can’t help but notice that Parry-Okeden is inspired by the opulence of Indian interiors. In her home you’ll find vibrant colour (the Sea Deep shade by Dulux that runs up the staircase catches your eye), as well as intricate patterns and handcrafted furniture. In the main living space, there’s an antique Indian daybed, sourced from online vintage marketplace Curated Spaces.

“We are continuously on the hunt for furniture and interesting pieces, scouring antique markets, auctions, or little-known vintage stores for items rarely seen,” she says.

A living room with white sofas.
The coffee tables are by Wild Orchid Collections and the large resin duck is by Chinese artist Robert Kuo. Photography: Will Horner

Her home is a filled with a collection of charming items that have been thoughtfully restored, giving “somewhat broken-down pieces a chance at a beautiful new life”. The restoration process itself is clearly as enjoyable as the search for something unique – both forms of creative therapy.

Each project also sees Parry-Okeden and her team design bespoke pieces specific to that home’s aesthetic. Many of these pieces are then made available to customers as part of the Wild Orchid Spaces product range.

A bedroom with a bed laid with dark green linen. The roof is pitched and covered in garden-motif wallpaper.
Sheldon finds a comfy spot in the bedroom beneath a ceiling light by Aerin and the Wild Flora wallpaper by Natty & Polly. Photography: Will Horner

 In Romney House, for example, you’ll find the scallop patterned Cloud Rug, which was designed by Parry-Okeden and handmade in Nepal. Asked to describe Wild Orchid Spaces’ signature style, she says, “Creating homes that feel like sanctuaries, interiors layered with natural textures and designed to complement the outdoors.”

Romney House also serves as a gallery for Parry-Okeden’s curated art collection. Works by renowned Australian artists Arthur Boyd, John Olsen, and Kate Bergin hang on the walls alongside vibrant pieces by American artist Hunt Slonem, and Greek artist Kostas Papakostas.

A close up shot of a bedside table with green wallpaper on the back wall and a pink scalloped Murano glass wall light.
The pink glass sconce in the bedroom is by Italy’s Murano. Photography: Will Horner.

Her preference, she says, is for artists who create whimsical, childlike works. It doesn’t stop at the artwork. A sense of play is part of each space. In her daughter’s room, for example, there’s wallpaper designed to be scribbled on.

As a self-confessed homebody, Parry-Okeden loves nothing more than entertaining in her garden or being indoors with her family, and her spaces are designed to get cosy in. Then, when it’s time for a change of pace, there’s a private gym, equipped with a sauna and Pilates machine. Or you could have a hit of tennis.

The gym at Romney House. A room with a white pitched roof. One wall is covered with patterned wallpaper and there's a pilates reformer machine in the centre of the room.
Parry-Okeden is constantly on the hunt for interesting pieces and vintage furniture; the home’s private gym includes a Pilates reformer machine and a sauna. The wall sconces are from Coco Republic. Photography: Will Horner

You can imagine guests must never want to leave, and the property’s adjoining Rose Cottage is there to accommodate them.

While no two Wild Orchid properties are ever the same, they all share a common thread: “natural textures, warmth through layered soft furnishings, and a strong connection to the surrounding environment,” explains Parry-Okeden. .

A bathroom with gold shower fittings and a freestanding bath.
Photography: Will Horner

With homes in Colorado in the US, as well as in Sydney’s seaside suburb of Avalon, there’s a place for everything. “My love of Colorado has me embracing large stone fireplaces, expansive windows and soaring ceilings to capture light and warmth,” she reflects.

“Australia has me leaning into its sunshine and coastlines, encouraging a more relaxed indoor-outdoor flow. While Europe and Asia heavily influence my love of artisanal craft and eclectic interiors.”


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1282533 Sarah Parry Okeden Parry-Okeden in one of her living spaces; she enjoys blurring the boundaries between interiors and nature. Photography: Will Horner Sarah Parry Okeden The impressive garden is a major feature of the property. Photography: Will Horner Sarah Parry Okeden Photography: Will Horner Sarah Parry Okeden Living Room Within the Crittall glasshouse-style extension, the rattan and glass dining table is by Bodhi Living, the chairs are by Dill & Johan Furniture, the pendant light is vintage Barovier & Toso and the two artworks behind it are by Australia’s own Arthur Boyd. Photography: Will Horner Sarah Parry Okeden Formal living room The coffee tables are by Wild Orchid Collections and the large resin duck is by Chinese artist Robert Kuo. Photography: Will Horner Sarah Parry Okeden Romney House Sheldon finds a comfy spot in the bedroom beneath a ceiling light by Aerin and the Wild Flora wallpaper by Natty & Polly. Photography: Will Horner Sarah Parry Okeden The pink glass sconce in the bedroom is by Italy’s Murano. Photography: Will Horner. Sarah Parry Okeden gym Parry-Okeden is constantly on the hunt for interesting pieces and vintage furniture; the home’s private gym includes a Pilates reformer machine and a sauna. The wall sconces are from Coco Republic. Photography: Will Horner Sarah Parry Okeden bathroom Photography: Will Horner marieclaire-1282533
It’s Time To Define Your Ultimate Home Styling Aesthetic  https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/define-your-home-aesthetic/ Sun, 18 May 2025 23:36:52 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1281447 Here’s how you can achieve the look at low prices.

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Your home is so much more than just somewhere to live.  

It is a total reflection of your identity, and the place where you can bring your Pinterest mood board to life with key pieces and intentional styling.  

Whether you’re interested in keeping it timeless with a more minimalistic approach or branching out into the great big world of modern eclecticism, here are four current trending interior styles, plus the hero pieces to help transform your home into a dream space.  

So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to define your ultimate home styling aesthetic and curate a space that feels unmistakably you.  

Scandinavian Chic  

Scandinavian Chic aesthetic
Image: ARE Media 

The Scandinavian Chic is all about mastering the art of effortless elegance. Think sun-drenched rooms, creamy neutrals, and rich oaks that meld together to create the ultimate zen space. When it comes to executing this in your space, there is no better place to start than with your lighting. 

The Riley Wave Floor Lamp from Kmart is the perfect addition to your scandi-chic space, and the pleated lampshade paired with the curved metal stand strikes a balance between statement and sophistication. Perch this Floor Lamp in the corner by your favourite occasional chair (we love the Asker Boucle Lounge Chair) and cosy up for an afternoon of calm, curated comfort.  

Modern Eclecticism 

modern eclectic aesthetic
Image: ARE Media 

Bold, layered, and full of personality, Modern Eclecticism is all about celebrating the art of the unexpected. Think vibrant patterns, gallery walls, and a diverse mix of both old and new décor that comes together to create a space that truly reflects your personal style. 

Modern Eclecticism is a dream for the lover of unique styling, so start by mixing textures such as velvets and boucle to add visual intrigue. The Wavy Boucle Floor Mirror from Kmart is the ultimate statement piece, and the curved silhouette and rich green colour can instantly provide that ‘effortlessly cool’ edge.  

Place your mirror near a window to reflect natural light and open up the room, as when it comes to Modern Eclecticism, thoughtful placement is key to keeping things feeling curated, not cluttered. Add your favourite house plant alongside, and you’ve created a scene that feels both intentional and unmistakably you. 

Timeless Minimalism 

Image: Getty Images 

For those who want to embrace the essentials, Timeless Minimalism strips it back, ensuring every piece feels intentional and considered. Your space should be understated and calming, with items that elevate the room. 

Minimalistic décor isn’t about sacrificing personality; it’s about choosing pieces that blend purpose with style. The Boucle ottoman from Kmart brings warmth and texture to the space while also doubling as extra seating. Place yours next to a sleek bookshelf as the perfect solution for displaying your most cherished pieces.  

Stick to neutral tones, natural finishes, and functional designs, and you’ll create a space that’s effortlessly sophisticated and serene. 

Cottagecore 

cottagecore aesthetic
Image: ARE Media 

Lovingly described as equal parts fairytale and farmhouse, Cottagecore has taken over our homes (and hearts) thanks to its whimsical charm. Imagine delicate florals, frills galore, and a nostalgia-fuelled treasure trove of vintage finds. Incorporating the Cottagecore aesthetic into your space can be achieved in just a few simple ways: with timeless pieces, organic elements, and finishing with soft, natural textiles.  

Introduce elevated bedding, such as a cotton quilt cover set, into your space for an understated nod to the trend. Layer a chunky knitted blanket or throw in a complementary colour to complete the look.  

Whichever aesthetic best reflects your personal style, the key to curating your dream space lies in thoughtful styling and elevated, considered pieces. 

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1281447 wordpress-hero-54-68267acd9c31e untitled-design-77-68267b50004cb wordpress-hero-52-68267bd318637 untitled-design-78-68267c1f6c415 marieclaire-1281447
Inside The Palatial Lake Como Villa Given The JJ Martin Designer Touch https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/lake-como-passalacqua-jj-martin-la-doublej/ Fri, 09 May 2025 03:40:23 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1280752 "A place of wonder where time stops"

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Californian-born JJ Martin has called Italy home for 24 years, starting the clothing and lifestyle brand La DoubleJ, and delighting in this sumptuous lakeside resort.

Standing inside the villa’s music room in a lemon-yellow floor-length dress, JJ Martin resembles a modern-day version of the ancient Greek lyric poet Corinna, immortalised in the neoclassical painting behind her. The cascading sea of peach, saffron and turquoise silk robes visible in the gilt-framed work seemingly extend to JJ’s elongated sleeves, which split open at the elbow and drape almost to the floor.

La DoubleJ designer JJ Martin standing inside the living area of luxury hotel Passalacqua
JJ Martin in the Hathor dress by La DoubleJ in one of her favourite rooms at Passalacqua, the magnificent neoclassical Sala della Musica, part of the Bellini suite. A painting of the Greek lyric poet Corinna hangs above the mantle. Barovier & Toso were commissioned to create the impressive 6-metre tall Murano chandelier. Glasses and trays by La DoubleJ sit on top of a coffee table covered in hand-painted leather by Bordoni Leathers. Photography: Robyn Lea.

“If I could pick one place to live for the rest of my life, this might be it”

JJ Martin

The visual rhythm continues through the room’s oversized windows, past terraced gardens of rose, laurel, cedar and sycamore, leading the eye to Lake Como’s glassy surface beyond. Climbing from the shoreline, granite and limestone mountains extend northwards to the Alps, cradling the water like a blessed baby in its foothills.

MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa
Looking past the 13th-century facade of Passalacqua, designed by architect Felice Soave, towards the 3 hectares of gardens, which include Lebanese cedars, cypresses, palms, olive trees, a rose garden, an orchard and a vast kitchen garden. Photography: Robyn Lea.

Located in the small village of Moltrasio, this 18th-century Lake Como villa, Passalacqua, is JJ’s preferred home away from home. “If I could pick one place to live for the rest of my life, this might be it,” she says.

Her deep affinity for the property is largely due to the spiritual connection she experiences there. Seated in the garden at the base of an almost 500-year-old Magnolia grandiflora, with views across the lake from its south-western shore, she finds peace of a rare kind.

“Lake Como feels like an energetic hotspot. I have done some wild meditations, both in the water and sitting under the trees at Passalacqua; there’s definitely a strong spiritual connection there. It’s basically a straight shot into the heart of Mamma Gaia,” she observes.

the sitting room of luxury hotel Passalacqua
Custom-made red velvet chairs and Patchwork rug by Golran, an artisan company established in Mashhad, Persia, in 1898. Photography: Robyn Lea.

Valentina De Santis, whose family owns the property, describes it as “a place of wonder where time stops … the perfect environment to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself’.

Located near the lake’s shore, the villa allows its visitors to surrender to that process by providing a place where they can simply observe the interplay of reflected and refracted light on the water, with deep shadows and dazzling highlights that soften to gold at dusk. “The lake is magnetic, and it is easy to become addicted to it,” Valentina says.

A collage illustrating different rooms in the Passalacque Lake Como Villa.
The Sala delle Dame dining room with chandelier created by Bronzetto, an artisanal Florentine bottega that specialises in brass. Photography: Robyn Lea.

Passalacqua opened as a resort in 2022 after a meticulous three-year renovation. The owners worked hard to retain the spirit of the idyllic private home it had been for the three centuries prior.

“Until now, this incredible villa was the residence of illustrious families and great artists, including Vincenzo Bellini, who wrote several of his famous operas from the music room, now part of the Bellini suite,” Valentina explains. “Our goal is to keep the same feeling of home alive for our guests.”

For JJ, the secret elixir at Passalacqua, which was voted the World’s Best Hotel in 2023, is Valentina herself: “She is like a sister to me and is the consummate Italian host, who treats everyone who comes through the door like an old friend. That’s how she creates this feeling of home, along with her eye for beauty and style.”

A collection of Fischer and Mieg plates from the late 1800s encircle an antique gilded mirror.
A collection of Fischer and Mieg plates from the late 1800s encircle an antique gilded mirror. Photography: Robyn Lea.

Their creative connection deepened when they worked together on designing aspects of the pool area, a process that felt like a natural extension of their friendship. JJ recalls jumping at the opportunity and feeling that the project had “the perfect convergence of energies and was meant to be”.

Valentina wholeheartedly agrees: “As with all good things in life, it happened for a reason. JJ was meant to be at Passalacqua. We aimed to bring meraviglia [wonder] into a place already full of marvels. JJ – a friend, genius and inspiration – was the only person that came to mind to add her magic to the area. She achieved what I expected and hoped: she brought joy.”

The poolhouse at luxury hotel Passalacqua
Glasshouse interior near the pool with La DoubleJ Orange Berger print cushions on Margherita rattan 1950s armchairs designed by Franco Albini for Bonacina. The 9602 floor lamp was designed in 1935 by Finnish designer Paavo Tynell. Photography: Robyn Lea.

The project included converting the interiors of a vast, sunlit glasshouse into a colour- and pattern-filled setting for morning or afternoon tea, lunch or aperitivo. JJ also designed the poolside bar, the flower-shaped pool umbrellas, and more. “They wanted something playful, punchy and vibrant with the La DoubleJ touch,” JJ says. “We tackled it all, from the napkins, the custom-tiled tabletops, the plants, the cushions … even the ashtrays!’”

While Passalacqua cemented JJ’s love affair with the area, it had begun in earnest years earlier when she met Como local Lucia Mantero. “I first met Lucia when her father invited me to his home on Lake Como, and we clicked immediately. She had an eclectic Italian style that spoke to my own, a blend of super chic Milanese with a touch of country girl,” JJ recalls.

Lucia and her family became early champions of JJ’s vision to create a retroinspired, maximalist clothing and lifestyle label, providing her with unfettered access to the vast Mantero textile archive, established by Lucia’s forebears in 1902.

The poolhouse at luxury hotel Passalacqua
View past the main staircase to the garden and lake beyond. Photography: Robyn Lea.

“The first time I went to their archives in Como, I just dived into the thousands and thousands of their printed fabrics, all on these handkerchief-sized swatches. I sat there in absolute ecstasy,’ JJ recalls. “We had no idea how impactful this collaboration would be and how quickly La DoubleJ would grow. We would never be where we are without Mantero. Their faith, generosity and support are really what allows La DoubleJ to thrive. Even though we now design many of our patterns in-house, we always visit the Mantero archives for inspiration.”

Lake Como offers JJ a winning quadrella: design inspiration, creative collaboration, friendships that feel like family, and Passalacqua. So it is unsurprising that it has become her spiritual home.

“I am a Taurus, so my environment is very, very important to me. It’s definitely something I need to curate. I need a wonderful, beautiful container that feels well structured, organised and visually pleasing. That’s how I get my sense of safety. And then I can create from that place,” she explains. This inescapable link between JJ’s wellbeing and the interiors she spends time in is expressed as much at Passalacqua as it is in her apartment in Milan and her boutique.

View down the hall
in the main palazzo of Passalacqua.
View down the hall in the main palazzo. Photography: Robyn Lea.

“It’s the reason our motto at La DoubleJ is ‘Raise Your Vibration’. The environments you create, the spaces you build around you, and how you adorn yourself on the outside impact how you feel inside. Colour and print have vibrational frequencies that can elevate your energy, your mood, your state of being, and your creative fire.”

It was this philosophy that originally drew Valentina to JJ. “I love her spirituality and optimism, and it’s so infectious for the people who are close to her. Because what is elegance without joy?”

The ceiling of the historic
Sala Ovale is decorated with
a fresco by neoclassical artist
Andrea Appiani.
The ceiling of the historic Sala Ovale is decorated with a fresco by neoclassical artist Andrea Appiani. Photography: Robyn Lea.

JJ’s endeavours are more than a vocation. “Creativity has been my lifeboat through some pretty stormy moments in my life. With the help of much deep energy work, I finally surrendered to the wisdom of the universe and realised every roadblock on my journey was put in my path to fertilise a new growth spurt in another direction, which would eventually become La DoubleJ; that was what was growing in my gut, my joy baby of a brand that I have been feeding, and has fed me so much ever since.”

This is an edited extract from This Creative Life (Thames & Hudson) by Robyn Lea.


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1280752 MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa Passalacqua JJ Martin in the Hathor dress by La DoubleJ in one of her favourite rooms at Passalacqua, the magnificent neoclassical Sala della Musica, part of the Bellini suite. A painting of the Greek lyric poet Corinna hangs above the mantle. Barovier & Toso were commissioned to create the impressive 6-metre tall Murano chandelier. Glasses and trays by La DoubleJ sit on top of a coffee table covered in hand-painted leather by Bordoni Leathers. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa Looking past the 13th-century facade of Passalacqua, designed by architect Felice Soave, towards the 3 hectares of gardens, which include Lebanese cedars, cypresses, palms, olive trees, a rose garden, an orchard and a vast kitchen garden. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa Sitting room The Sala Ovale is replete with mirrored screens, Dedar and Rubelli fabrics and a ceiling fresco by 18th-century neoclassical artist Andrea Appiani. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Passalacque Lake Como Villa The Sala delle Dame dining room with chandelier created by Bronzetto, an artisanal Florentine bottega that specialises in brass. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa Dining Area A collection of Fischer and Mieg plates from the late 1800s encircle an antique gilded mirror. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa Pool House Glasshouse interior near the pool with La DoubleJ Orange Berger print cushions on Margherita rattan 1950s armchairs designed by Franco Albini for Bonacina. The 9602 floor lamp was designed in 1935 by Finnish designer Paavo Tynell. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa View past the main staircase to the garden and lake beyond. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa View down the hall in the main palazzo. Photography: Robyn Lea. MCL JJ Martin Lake Como Villa Pool House The ceiling of the historic Sala Ovale is decorated with a fresco by neoclassical artist Andrea Appiani. Photography: Robyn Lea. marieclaire-1280752
The Ultimate Guide To Antique Shopping https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/how-to-buy-antiques-vintage-australia/ Mon, 28 Apr 2025 07:53:33 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1278898 How to find timeless treasures for your home

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Forsake the flat pack and instead forage for finds you’ll treasure for generations by honing your antique shopping skills – to source, style and collect like a professional.

Whether you’re looking to shop sustainably, add to a collection or simply indulge in the thrill of the hunt, antiques salvaged from a junk shop or the finest dealer can bring character and craftsmanship to your home.

So, for the less-seasoned buyer, discover the sources, search terms, and styles to unearth the ultimate treasure.

Train Your Eye: How To Spot Quality Antiques Like A Pro

Cleo Collects Antiques and Vintage
Image: @cleo.collects

Interior designers often talk about the term “get your eye in”, when it comes to learning how to buy antiques. It essentially means honing your knowledge to enable you to spot good pieces. Start by immersing yourself in the best the market has to offer at specialist auction houses and dealers.

In Australia, get familiar with Vickers & Hoad, Lawsons or Leonard Joel. And overseas, 1st Dibs is the go-to for interior insiders. It will allow you to train your eye over a wide range of objects. Renowned New York interior designer and antiques expert Miles Redd explains, “Auction houses are living museums where you can enjoy incredible art and antiques before they disappear into private homes.”

They also expose you to rarer pieces. Local interior stylist Sunny Bodger of Alba Atelier recommends considering the scarcity factor, and shopping curated destinations such as Secondi, East Wing Studio, and Cleo Collects for those special, one-of-a-kind pieces (not to mention more affordable shipping than when sourcing antiques from overseas).

What To Look For When Buying Antiques

How To Buy Antiques Lucy Montgomery
Photography: Abbie Melle

There is no dealer too lofty nor junk shop too neglected to investigate. White-gloved curators at auction houses may seem intimidating but don’t let them be. “Auction houses can be an incredible resource for securing affordable pieces,” says Alba Atelier’s Bodger, because, like other outlets, they also have pieces they need to sell.

Start by making a shopping list and taking the measurements. Small local auction houses are widely considered the best source for inexpensive, unexpected finds. Sydney-based interior architect Phoebe Nicol founded The Vault to share her passion for antiques and design (she spent six years working for Geoff Clark, who founded the now closed antique store Country Trader).

“We think that every home needs a little spice and hope that our pieces help to build unique and inspiring spaces,” says Nicol. There’s also the celebrated interior designer Tamsin Johnson, who sources inventory from all over the world, and sells it to her clients and online. From wrought-iron rope chairs from the 1940s to 19th century Spanish tables, she has an eye for the rarest of antiques.

Authenticity, Condition & Provenance

The first step in figuring out how to buy antiques with your heart – and head – is all about quality. Hunt out the maker’s mark and check the materials: solid wood, hand-finished details and natural patinas usually indicate quality.

Provenance is key – the story behind an item can add value and meaning. Dealers are often happy to impart their knowledge. They’re also great if repairs are needed, “so ask for their recommended restorer or upholsterer,” adds Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors.

Following Your Instincts When Buying Antiques

Phoebe Nicol Interiors The Vault Antiques and Vintage
A little boys room by @phoebenicol.interiors featuring a Mid Century Style Bronze Tulip Table Lamp from The Vault. Image: @the_vault_sydney.

Then, “Trust your instincts,” advises interior designer Brigitta Spinocchia Freund. “If something looks and feels well made, it probably is. If it’s furniture, look at the joints: dovetail or mortise and tenon suggest expert craftsmanship. For ceramics and glassware, small imperfections can be a sign of authenticity rather than flaws. And when in doubt, research the maker or designer.

If in doubt, follow Freund’s checklist: consider authenticity and provenance, condition versus price, uniqueness, functionality, investment potential and seller reputation. “But most importantly, I ask myself, ‘Do I love it?’ If the answer is ‘yes’ it’s usually a good buy,” she says. For Redd, “You have to want it.”

Connoisseur Martin Brudnizki agrees, “If a knick-knack makes you smile or an antique piece catches your eye, trust your instincts. Don’t get caught up in whether it’s ‘right’. If it speaks to you, it’ll find a place in your home. Antiques aren’t about instant gratification; the best collections are built over time.”

Why You Should Ignore Antique Trends

Everyone will be searching for the same Murano lights and bamboo chairs, so it’s worth avoiding the trends – and “there are beautiful things being overlooked”, says Redd. Look for “brown furniture”, he says, such as your grandmother’s antiques, which are cheaper and with better craftsmanship. “Paint it chalky white or green to give it a modern vibe.”

Also, seek out smaller, characterful finds, says Brudnizki, “pieces that add a sense of personality, ornamental lighting, anything with an interesting silhouette,” he explains. Adapt by swapping out handles or upholstering in a new fabric, he adds.

How To Buy Antiques Online & In Person

Kerrie Ann Jones Gallery Antiques and Vintage
Vintage-enthusiasts, like stylist and designer Kerrie Ann Jones, are a wealth of expertise when it comes to honing your antique shopping skills. Image: @Kerrieann.jones

Where possible, see the piece IRL, as it can be difficult to get a sense of size online and don’t be afraid to ask questions as defects like woodworm can be impossible to spot in an image. “I always request more pictures and for someone to stand next to the item so I can get a sense of scale,” says Redd. “Filters and white backgrounds can make things look better than they are.”

When first learning how to buy antiques, study the market and find out what similar items sell for. At auctions, set your amount and don’t budge – there are plenty more fish in the sea. Contact the seller directly to see what the best price might be. Dealers often want to get rid of bulky furniture, so that’s where you can really negotiate. “Always make an offer of what it feels worth to you – hey, you never know,” says Redd.

If you are at a market and are worried about leaving something behind, get the vendor’s details so you can contact them later, and save items online or add them to your watch list.

With behemoths like eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Etsy, learn how to buy antiques and vintage successfully by honing your searches and keywords. Change phrases, and word order for new results. “Use precise materials, styles or periods to filter out the clutter,” says Brudnizki.

“Set alerts for key phrases to be ahead of the game.” PicClick AU allows you to browse eBay more visually, and there are also guides on sites such as chairish.com and vinterior.co.

“My favourite searches are ‘timeless finds’ and ‘rare and unique’,” says Vinterior’s Sandrine Zhang Ferron, who says if you love something, pounce. Another tip: watch for sites having sales.


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1278898 Cleo Collects Antiques and Vintage Image: @cleo.collects How To Buy Antiques Lucy Montgomery Photography: Abbie Melle Phoebe Nicol Interiors The Vault Antiques and Vintage A little boys room by @phoebenicol.interiors featuring a Mid Century Style Bronze Tulip Table Lamp from The Vault. Image: @the_vault_sydney. Kerrie Ann Jones Gallery Antiques and Vintage @Kerrieann.jones marieclaire-1278898
You’ve Never Seen An Apartment Like This – Miranda Skoczek’s Colour-Filled Dream https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/miranda-skoczek-artist-home/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 07:16:08 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1279010 Where every object tells a story

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When Miranda Skoczek thinks of home, Alain de Botton comes to mind. “I love what he says about home being the guardian of our identity. That really resonates with me,” she says.

Every one of the objects that fill Skoczek’s home – from antique furniture to travel mementos, family heirlooms and artworks by friends and artists she admires – has its reason and its place. “Every object tells a story. I can tell you where I bought it, why I bought it. They spark memories for me, and my paintings are also very much about places experienced and imagined.”

Skoczek lives in a rented art deco apartment in Melbourne’s Camberwell with her son, Harper. Despite it being one of the darker places she’s lived in, the Tudoresque flourishes and quirky layout appeal to her. “It’s a rabbit warren. People are always getting disorientated.”

Miranda Skoczek artist home living room
The apartment in Melbourne’s Camberwell exudes both style and comfort, with living room pieces such as an Eames plywood chair (left) and Eames rocker framing a Baxter table. Paintings here are by Emily Ferretti (left) and Skoczek. Photography: Dave Wheeler

The apartment is also the location of her current studio. “I vacillate between the two. I love the idea of having it at home and rolling in there in my pyjamas but it can become a bit much. Then it’s time to have a separate space again.” For now, her home life is such a large part of what feeds her practice that she makes the lack of separation work.

“I’m a colourist, first and foremost. Colour is my main compositional language and colour is fundamental to our experience of the world around us. Sometimes it’s like a fun park in here. Some people would find this too much.”

Miranda Skoczek mantle living room home
Photography: Dave Wheeler

But Skoczek’s innate sense of colour and composition carries throughout the apartment. “I delight in creating little stories in every little section of the room. But it’s not that thought out; it’s very instinctive.”

A green faceted mirror hangs above a Kate Tucker ceramic on the mantlepiece; on the coffee table there’s an Alma Berrow ashtray atop the art books, and by the window a misshapen Georgia Morgan vase keeps company with Skoczek’s rowdy collection of houseplants.

Miranda Skoczek artist home dining room
Along with vintage pieces, the dining room features a simple sisal rug to set off its Thonet chairs, Ercol loveseat and the towering rococo urn. Photography: Dave Wheeler

Skoczek delights in putting unexpected pieces together. In the dining room, handpainted tiles by Tia Ansell are propped on the bookshelf next to a 2.4 metre gold Rococo urn from an antique store run by her friends Phillip Graham and William Tarlo.

Miranda Skoczek art home gallery wall
Art covers nearly every wall, including here in the dining room. “Beauty is my religion,” says Skoczek. Photography: Dave Wheeler

Her art collection includes 20th-century European and contemporary Australian paintings, folk art and photography, all interchangeably hung, propped and rearranged.

“I like a bit of the absurd and the carnivalesque. But also somewhere to feel nurtured and at rest. I’m a woman of contrast. I like all those things to occur and be felt.”

Miranda Skoczek artist home bookshelves
Photography: Dave Wheeler

Art has been a part of Skoczek’s life since childhood. Her most treasured works are commissioned portraits of her mother and aunt as children by Polish painter Jerzy Potrzebowski that her grandparents brought with them when they migrated from Poland via India. Portraiture is just one loose theme that can be traced through Skoczek’s collection, with works by Georgia Spain, Laura Jones, Yvette Coppersmith and Jacqui Stockdale also on display.

Miranda Skoczek living room home
Skoczek’s most treasured artworks are these portraits of her mother and aunt, carried here when her Polish grandparents migrated. The lamp is Gubi Grasshopper, the chair is Baxter and the large painting is one of Skoczek’s. Photography: Dave Wheeler

“I feel they do all speak to each other and feed off one another. I collect artists whose work I very much admire and wish I could paint like them. So I get the chance to be up close and personal with them, to study them and try to understand how the artist painted them.”

Since her first sold-out solo exhibition when she was studying at the Victorian College of the Arts, Skoczek has been reinvesting in the art of others. “I was always very committed. Whenever I had a successful show, it was really important to me to keep that wheel turning and to collect someone else’s work.”

Miranda Skoczek artist home bookshelves (1)
Photography: Dave Wheeler

Many of the artists in her collection are friends and fellow alumni, including Laith McGregor and Emily Ferretti, whose large-scale painting has just been moved from Skoczek’s bedroom to the living room, where it hangs between a watercolour by Adam Lee and one of Skoczek’s own vivid works. And there are more works still waiting to be framed and hung.

Miranda Skoczek art home gallery wall (1)
“Everything here is of significance to me,” says Miranda Skoczek of her home. Pictured is a painting (left) by Georgia Spain and drawing (below right) by Justin Williams. Photography: Dave Wheeler

“Collecting art has always been an absolute focus and dedication for me. Although sometimes I feel a little regretful I might just be leaving my son a rug and an art collection and not something a little more useful, like real estate. I’ve always said I don’t care about a mortgage, it’s not important to me. And I’ve justified many a purchase because it feeds and shapes my practice and story.”

Miranda Skoczek art home objet

The ashtray is actually a ceramic sculpture by Alma Berrow, who transforms everyday items into intricate works of art. Photography: Dave Wheeler

Skoczek happily admits to being materialistic. “I am constantly drawing inspiration from my possessions. They do define me, and all of my things are dear to me. I’m a collector, not a fixed being – I carry everything from house to house.

Everything here is of significance to me. My home narrates my journey, depicting my past, and can even hint at my aspirations for my future.”

Miranda Skoczek artist home gallery wall
Miranda Skoczek in her home studio. Artistically, she calls herself “a sponge”, taking inspiration from everywhere. “I have 95,000 photographs on my phone,” she told Vault magazine. Photography: Dave Wheeler

This is an edited extract from Collecting: Living with Art (Thames & Hudson, $79.99), by Kym Elphinstone.

Shop The Look

Miranda Skoczek 'Flowers for Gosia 2024'
Oil and acrylic on canvas
180 x 180 cm
Miranda Skoczek ‘Flowers for Gosia 2024’ Oil and acrylic on canvas 180 x 180 cm

Freedom Zepplyn 2-Seater Jacquard Boucle cream $2,399
Freedom Zepplyn 2-Seater Jacquard Boucle cream $2,399

Maison Balzac Petit Gaspard Vase, $129
Maison Balzac Petit Gaspard Vase, $129

Collecting Living With Art, by Kym Elphinstone, $79.99
Collecting Living With Art, by Kym Elphinstone, $79.99


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1279010 Miranda Skoczek artist home living room The apartment in Melbourne’s Camberwell exudes both style and comfort, with living room pieces such as an Eames plywood chair (left) and Eames rocker framing a Baxter table. Paintings here are by Emily Ferretti (left) and Skoczek. Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek mantle living room home Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek artist home dining room Along with vintage pieces, the dining room features a simple sisal rug to set off its Thonet chairs, Ercol loveseat and the towering rococo urn. Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek art home gallery wall Art covers nearly every wall, including here in the dining room. “Beauty is my religion,” says Skoczek. Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek artist home bookshelves Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek living room home Skoczek’s most treasured artworks are these portraits of her mother and aunt, carried here when her Polish grandparents migrated. The lamp is Gubi Grasshopper, the chair is Baxter and the large painting is one of Skoczek’s. Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek artist home bookshelves (1) Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek art home gallery wall (1) “Everything here is of significance to me,” says Skoczek of her home. Pictured is a painting (left) by Georgia Spain and drawing (below right) by Justin Williams. Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek art home objet The ashtray is actually a ceramic sculpture by Alma Berrow, who transforms everyday items into intricate works of art. Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek artist home gallery wall Miranda Skoczek in her home studio. Artistically, she calls herself “a sponge”, taking inspiration from everywhere. “I have 95,000 photographs on my phone,” she told Vault magazine. Photography: Dave Wheeler Miranda Skoczek ‘Flowers for Gosia 2024’ Oil and acrylic on canvas 180 x 180 cm Miranda Skoczek 'Flowers for Gosia 2024' Oil and acrylic on canvas 180 x 180 cm Zepplyn 2-Seater Jacquard Boucle cream $2,399 Freedom Zepplyn 2-Seater Jacquard Boucle cream $2,399 Maison Balzac Petit Gaspard Vase, $129 Maison Balzac Petit Gaspard Vase, $129 Collecting Living With Art, by Kym Elphinstone, $79.99 Collecting Living With Art, by Kym Elphinstone, $79.99 marieclaire-1279010
SIR. Co-Founder Sophie Coote Reveals Her Vintage-Meets-Modern Sydney Home https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/sophie-coote-surry-hills-apartment-interior-design/ Wed, 16 Apr 2025 03:05:54 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1278385 A city escape

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After a decade spent seaside in Tamarama, Sophie Coote felt pulled to the city. The rest is kismet: together with partner Jordy Burrows, the pair found “the one” – and only – apartment they viewed in Surry Hills, and two days later called it home. The move felt like a natural extension of Coote’s everyday life. After all, as one half of Australian label SIR., which she co-founded with Nikki Campbell in 2014, Coote’s modus operandi is to immerse herself in new places, journeying through different cities to arrive at the root of a new collection. Last year, she travelled to Japan, Milan and Ibiza, bouncing between galleries, vintage stores and fabric archives. So, what does she look for in a permanent pad?

The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote.
Coote’s wardrobe is a treasure trove of delight, an impression helped by this vintage Turkish rug from Cadrys. Image: Will Horner

Architectural Charm

“I love the classic bones of an older property,” says Coote. Tick – the apartment building, originally a hospital, is newly renovated but retains an art deco feel. “I love classic Victorian influences in architecture,” she adds. “I love big windows, wooden floorboards and old frames, vintage tiles and hardware.” The two-bedroom, two-storey apartment is her vision IRL. There are original Victorian windows, new herringbone floorboards and polished concrete walls that run the length of the building, meaning light streams in all day so one can catch sunrise and sunset. The main bedroom and bathroom are on the top floor, with an open-plan kitchen and living area that spill out onto the balcony, boasting harbour views. Downstairs, alongside a guest bedroom, the space has been customised for Coote’s wardrobe, filled with vintage finds sourced in Paris and New York.

The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner
The home of SIR’S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner
The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner
The home of SIR’S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner

Design Philosophy

“There are so many parallels between my personal aesthetic, how I dress, and the home,” she says. “I love a fusion of old and new. I love finding a vintage designer piece that has that uniqueness that no-one else has.” She cites friend and interior designer Tamsin Johnson, who outfitted SIR.’s stores, as an inspiration. For the apartment, Coote turned to local haunt Vampt Vintage Design and trawled through books and Instagram to find her own objets d’affection. The turnkey apartment came with the couch, which the pair chose to keep – a complimentary blank canvas to their new rug and coffee table by Fleur Studios. “I have always loved a more neutral, minimalist space,” says Coote, “but then adding a piece of art or a sculpture that allows the space to pop.” Figurative works by Stanislas Piechaczek frame the lounge, while pieces by James Coe adorn other corners in the home. “I love artists who work with colour combinations that are unexpected but work really beautifully together,” she says. “It reminds me of something that would be done by a high-fashion house.” Art imitating life.

Lifestyle & Leisure

For Christmas, Coote gifted Burrows an old record player. “Music is a huge part of our life – we listen every single day,” she says. Burrows curates the SIR. store playlists, while live music is a cornerstone of the brand’s travel itineraries – which most recently included performances by Crazy P at Ibiza’s Pikes Hotel and at Glastonbury. At home, while music is (always) playing, Coote can be found designing or cooking upstairs. Her go-to meals? Hearty soups and baked salmon. The pair entertain occasionally, or else go out for meals. Of home, she says: “It’s our hideaway from the world.” Coote knows every gastronomic artery in the neighbourhood. “Surry Hills has a real melting pot of interesting people. It’s got amazing cafes and restaurants,” she says. Per Coote: head to Tento for matcha, Chez Crix for French fare with a view, Arthur for date night, and Bar Copains for an afternoon wine.

The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner
The home of SIR’S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner

Looking Ahead

It’s easy to forget the pair have lived in the neighbourhood less than a year. So, what comes next? “I hope we continue to collect pieces from our travels,” Coote says. “When you look at your home and it’s filled with memories – I love that approach.”

To shop SIR. discounts, click here

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The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner
The home of SIR’S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner
The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner
The home of SIR’S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner

Words: Jen Nurick

The new addition of Marie Claire Lifestyle featuring cover star Chloe Fisher is on sale now
The new addition of Marie Claire Lifestyle featuring cover star Chloe Fisher is on sale now

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1278385 SophieCoote7 Coote's wardrobe is a treasure trove of delight, an impression helped by this vintage Turkish rug from Cadrys. Image: Will Horner SophieCoote3 The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner SophieCoote2 The antique chair was a find at Curated Spaces; it sits below a painting by French-born Australian artist Stanislas Piechaczek. Image: Will Horner SophieCoote1 Sophie Coote with partner Jordy Burrows. Image: Will Horner SophieCoote5 Coote's Christmas gift to Burrows was this vintage Rotel turntable (and amp) from the '70s. Image: Will Horner SophieCoote6 The home of SIR'S Sophie Coote. Image: Will Horner The new addition of Marie Claire Lifestyle featuring cover star Chloe Fisher is on sale now The new addition of Marie Claire Lifestyle featuring cover star Chloe Fisher is on sale now marieclaire-1278385
Chloe Fisher Invites Us Into Her Balinese Home https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/chloe-fisher-bali-home-tour/ Wed, 09 Apr 2025 06:36:43 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1277835 The post Chloe Fisher Invites Us Into Her Balinese Home appeared first on marie claire.

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4 Chic-But-Eco-Aware Brands To Bring Your Home To Life https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/chic-eco-aware-brands/ Fri, 28 Mar 2025 04:42:37 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1276763 We found the homewares brands that overdeliver, on both fronts

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Turning your home into a sanctuary doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet. From recycling to reducing water waste, small changes can make a big difference—but when it comes to curating your space, choosing chic-but-eco-aware brands that prioritise sustainability is where the real impact happens.

Purchasing from eco-aware brands is becoming a growing priority for many Australians, however seeing through the greenwashing to find genuinely environmentally minded companies can feel like an overwhelming task. To cut through the noise, we’ve rounded up four homewares brands that prove that style and sustainability really can go hand in hand.

Smeg

Smeg presents a new addition to the range of small household appliances, the Soda Maker, a combination of elegance and innovation. It offers a touch of style in matte white and matte black finishes.

The most innovative element is its exclusive carbonation control knob; this intuitive system allows you to adjust the CO₂ level, allowing you to customise each drink to your taste.

How Is Smeg Sustainable?

Sustainability is a core value in the Smeg strategy: through the progressive assessment and integration of the environmental, social and governance aspects Smeg aims to develop increasingly innovative technological solutions to maximise the efficiency of its processes.

Smeg’s commitment to sustainability shines through with the 800ml Tritan™ Renew bottle, crafted from 50 per cent recycled materials. Durable, crystal-clear, and dishwasher-safe, it’s a chic and conscious alternative to single-use plastics.

Smeg soda maker in the kitchen
Image: Smeg

Mud Australia

Effortlessly blending artistry with functionality, Mud Australia has redefined modern tableware with its handcrafted porcelain pieces, which are designed and made in Sydney.

Whether adorning a stylish dinner party tablescape or simply serving a midweek meal, pieces such as the Limited Edition 12pc Sand Dune Dinner Set have been created for their versatility and practicality. These heirloom-quality ceramics add warmth, elegance, and a touch of Australian craftsmanship to any home.

How Is Mud Australia Sustainable?

Handmade in Sydney, their ceramics are crafted from durable Limoges porcelain in a studio powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. Mud recycles clay offcuts, uses plastic-free packaging, and partners with carbon-neutral shipping services to minimise their impact on the environment.

Mud Australia plates
Image: Mud Australia

Hommey

Melbourne brand Hommey brings a stylish splash of colour to every room in the home.  

With an expansive range of reversible bedding, cushions and towels that are vibrant enough to transform any home, the popular brand has perfected the balance between style and versatility.

How Is Hommey Sustainable?

With a continued dedicated commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, the new reversible Hommey Versa bedding collection is crafted from yarn-dyed 100 per cent organic cotton. All cushions and towels are made using ethically sourced, Oeko-Tex 100-approved fabric, and Hommy delivers their wares in biodegradable packaging.

Hommey white/blue bed linen
Image: Hommey

Kip&Co

Bold and unapologetically fun, Kip&Co is the cult-favourite Australian lifestyle brand that brings a splash of joy to every corner of the home. The brand is known for its mix of eclectic prints, unapologetic use of colour and rich textures across bedding, homewares and fashion categories. Designed for modern, feel-good living, Kip&Co pieces are made to be mixed, matched and adored.

How Is Kip&Co Sustainable?

Kip&Co have made a personal commitment to minimise any harm to the planet, in everything they do. By offsetting their manufacturing, local and freight footprints they are a proudly carbon neutral brand.

Kip&Co purple/pink glasses
Image: Kip&Co

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Home Is Truly Where The Heart Is For Melissa Leong https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/melissa-leong-melbourne-home/ Wed, 19 Mar 2025 03:04:32 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1262431 Step inside her characterful home

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If walls could talk, Melissa Leong’s 1915 Edwardian terrace would tell the esteemed writer, food critic and television host: you’ve earned this.

“Not a day goes by that I don’t sit in my house and tell myself, ‘You did this – you made it for yourself,’” says Leong, who invited marie claire Lifestyle into her eclectic sanctuary in Melbourne’s inner city for an exclusive cover shoot.

“I never dreamt that I could create a situation where this is my reality.”

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle.
Image: Brett Brogan

With an impressive roster of freelance gigs under her belt (including an in-conversation with celebrity chef Jamie Oliver at the Sydney Opera House late last year, and a starring role in SBS documentary The Hospital: In the Deep End ), as well as her hit show MasterChef: Dessert Masters, Leong deserves to have her cake and eat it too.

So, on a sleepy corner in Melbourne’s leafy Carlton North, she carved out her own indulgent slice.

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024. In her living room.
“It means a lot to me to have work by friends and artists of colour in my home,” says Melissa Leong of her painting by Indigenous artist Sharon Adamson, who she first encountered while filming MasterChef at Uluru. The red velvet sofa is by Maker&Son. Image: Brett Brogan

The brief was simple: “It needed to be my Barbie dream starter home,” explains Leong.

“I purchased the house in mid-2021. It was a very strange period of time. We were all seeking that little bubble of protection. I was going through a divorce [from former chef Joe Jones] and so I really wanted to find a place that felt like a protective cocoon. I wanted it to be private, quiet and a beautiful place that could be just mine and that I would feel safe in.”

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024
The hardest working room in her home, Leong wanted a kitchen where she could test recipes but also host small gatherings of friends. “Anyone who works in food would prefer to be by the stove when you’re entertaining,” she says. “That way friends can sit up on one of the bar stools and chat while I’m doing the last-minute touches.” Of her curated collection of pieces, including her vibrant Sidney Teodoruk artwork (pictured), she says, “I love looking around at things I’ve collected. Each holds a memory or there’s a reason behind it being there.” Image: Brett Brogan

“I really wanted a place that felt like a protective cocoon”

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 living room.
“When I enter my front door I feel as though I can exhale,” says Melissa Leong, standing in her front room beside a painting by Melbourne-based artist Stefan Mau, and a custom sofa by GM Upholstery. Image: Brett Brogan

With heritage bones that had previously been renovated by a former owner and opulently high wood-panelled ceilings there was plenty to love, but it was the home’s history of healing that won over Leong.

It turned out it wasn’t the first time the Federation-era terrace had opened its doors to a woman seeking refuge. Leong says she felt instantly welcomed by the terrace’s allure as a private retreat – away from the busyness of her public life.

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 bedroom.
Colour collides in Leong’s master bedroom, with custom side table lights by Pascale Gomes-McNabb, beside tables by &Tradition, and a throw by Missoni. Of the flooring, Leong adds, “I fell in love with this raspberry-pink carpet for the bedroom and decided to build up around it.” Image: Brett Brogan

“All signs pointed to yes,” she recalls. “From the moment I walked in it felt warm, cozy and safe. The children of a previous owner chose gifts for me when I moved in: a rose quartz and a silver unicorn, which I feel is quite symbolic. I’ve lifted myself out of some pretty dark and difficult things to get to a place where I feel like when I shut the door this is mine. I wish that feeling for everybody.”

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 dressing room
Leong and her rescue cat inside her generous wardrobe. Image: Brett Brogan

Teaming up the some of Melbourne’s best design minds, including Brahman Perera and Pascale Gomes-McNabb, as well as Anna Murphy and Michael Khalil (from Lygon St Nursery) for landscaping, the home’s eclectic, textural and punchy aesthetic is a playful lesson in colouring outside of the lines.

“The starting point for the design was formulating who I wanted to be in this house and what I wanted to bring out of it,” she explains.

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 Living room.
A federation-era fireplace forms a conversation pit between a tiger rug by Tim Roodenrys and assorted sculptures by denHolm in the home of Melissa Leong. Image: Brett Brogan

“I wanted it to have touch points of friends, pieces of art and influence, so that I could look at each corner and feel like I was among my friends. Every single piece in my home reminds me of a person and brings a bit of joy.”

If a piece is powerful enough to make you feel something, that’s art to me”

Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024. Kitchen.
Leong’s first big commission for the house was a green marble dining table by Melbourne-based furniture designer Daniel Barbera. “I wanted to make sure that I had a really special dining table. It’s the central focus of what I do for work and there are high expectations,” says Leong. Image: Brett Brogan

While the kitchen and dining room are obviously sacred spaces to Leong, she made a conscious decision not to centre the kitchen as the heart of her new home.

She was adamant this not be an entertainer’s house, preferring instead that it play host to small group gatherings, where she can share important stories and intimate moments over champagne and snacks. In doing so, Melissa Leong has not only created a home that invites meaningful connection, but an important space to heal.

Melissa Leong’s Guide To Melbourne

Restaurant: “Whether you sit outside and take in the romance of Rathdowne Village’s tree-lined streets or cosy up inside, Carlton North’s Florian is the [epitome] of a neighbourhood eatery that is chic and charming.”

Café: ” I always take friends from out of town to Monforte Viennoiserie for expertly crafted croissants and other flaky, buttery pastry gems. Monforte has developed a cult following – and rightly so.”

Bar: Gerald’s Bar is a true hospitality institution that offers good times, always. The warm wooden interior is a comforting place to pull up a chair at the bar, or find a dark corner on a hot date. Whether it’s a solo martini and a tin of cracking anchovies or a long dinner, do it at Gerald’s.”

Fashion: ” The circular fashion economy is a great thing, and At Love It Longer you’ll find a regularly refreshed selection of designer clothes and accessories. Shopping in store while being plied with espresso and biscotti (from Biscotteria, the shop below them) is a true Melbourne experience.”

See: “I’m a huge fan of Fitzroy gallery Oigall Projects, for accessible, exciting contemporary art.”

Travel: “Darwin has great produce, proximity to incredible landscapes, fishing, art, culture and a connection with land. And if I could choose to live anywhere else in the world it would be Rome, Italy, with its culture, art, food and feeling.”


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1262431 Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 (9) Image: Brett Brogan Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 (7) "It means a lot to me to have work by friends and artists of colour in my home,” says Leong of her painting by Indigenous artist Sharon Adamson, who she first encountered while filming MasterChef at Uluru. The red velvet sofa is by Maker&Son. Image: Brett Brogan Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 (8) The hardest working room in her home, Leong wanted a kitchen where she could test recipes but also host small gatherings of friends. “Anyone who works in food would prefer to be by the stove when you’re entertaining,” she says. “That way friends can sit up on one of the bar stools and chat while I’m doing the last-minute touches.” Of her curated collection of pieces, including her vibrant Sidney Teodoruk artwork (pictured), she says, “I love looking around at things I’ve collected. Each holds a memory or there’s a reason behind it being there.” Image: Brett Brogan Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 (1) “When I enter my front door I feel as though I can exhale,” says Melissa Leong, standing in her front room beside a painting by Melbourne-based artist Stefan Mau, and a custom sofa by GM Upholstery. Image: Brett Brogan Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 (5) Colour collides in Leong’s master bedroom, with custom side table lights by Pascale Gomes-McNabb, beside tables by &Tradition, and a throw by Missoni. Of the flooring, Leong adds, “I fell in love with this raspberry-pink carpet for the bedroom and decided to build up around it.” Image: Brett Brogan Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 Leong and her rescue cat inside her generous wardrobe. Image: Brett Brogan Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 (3) A federation-era fireplace forms a conversation pit between a tiger rug by Tim Roodenrys and assorted sculptures by denHolm. Image: Brett Brogan Melissa Leong Home Marie Claire Lifestyle 10 2024 (2) Leong’s first big commission for the house was a green marble dining table by Melbourne-based furniture designer Daniel Barbera. “I wanted to make sure that I had a really special dining table. It’s the central focus of what I do for work and there are high expectations,” says Leong. Image: Brett Brogan marieclaire-1262431
The Interior Design Trends We’re Making Space For In 2025 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/home/interior-design-trends-2025/ Tue, 25 Feb 2025 03:11:23 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1271600 Our definitive decorating edit for the year ahead

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With a new year comes the promise of new possibilities. It’s a perfect time to hit the reset button and set the tone for the year to come, and nowhere can an overhaul be more transformative than at home. After all, it’s where we spend the majority of our lives, and even more so during a time of such financial instability. So while it feels strange discussing interior design trends for 2025 during such a time, the vibe shift evident in other creative avenues is also being felt in the design world.

We’re talking less microtrends and more investment in what makes your personal interior style sing.

Looking at this year, and beyond, it’s all about embracing modern emerging aesthetics that are equally as contemporary as they are rooted in tradition, and replacing transitory trends with long-term investment in the most enduring style of all – a sense of self.

From pattern play with a no-holds-barred aesthetic to ’70s cool and espresso everything, these are the 2025 interior trends set to reinvigorate the design rulebook.

The Interior Design Trends Destined For Your 2025 Moodboards

’70s Style

70s Style interior design trends 2025
Image: @shopquarters/@incommonwith. Photography: William Jess Laird. Interiors: Nick Ozemba.

In a newly colour confident world that’s leaning into character and personality over copy and paste style, there’s no greater time to welcome a return to seventies sensibilities.

Known for luxe, comforting textures like velvet, chenille and corduroy in rich nature-inspired jewel tones that range from mustard and burgundy, to garnet and emerald green, ’70s style embodies a notion of comfort and cosiness with an elevated aesthetic.

Forecasted at both Paris and Milan Design Weeks as a style with substance that was gaining traction, its wider influence across the homes world in 2025 is showing no sign of slowing down.

And for good reason. Striking a balance between maximalism and architectural simplicity, the interior design trends of 2025 – such as this – are less fleeting and more in line with feeling.

What makes us feel good? Where do we find solace? The answer more often than not can be found within the walls we call home, whatever that looks like.

And so, in tapping into the nostalgic world of the ’70s, a veritable treasure-trove of inspiration – and pleasure – awaits.

70s interior design runway trend 2025
Image: Getty

As with other interiors/fashion trend crossovers, the ’70s influence was impossible to ignore during the Spring/Summer shows.

Chloé’s Chemena Kamali ushered in the Boho renaissance that picked up speed in the motifs and silhouettes explored across the runways of Saint Laurent, Gucci, Isabel Marant and Stella McCartney, but quickly became more than just a fashion statement.

The style found its renewed footing in the freedom of expression it offers as a reaction to quiet luxury and capsule wardrobes, and a will to reconnect with individuality – as reflected in its interior translations.

Its beauty also lies in its aesthetic adaptability. Not sure about a sunken living room or water drop chairs? Too short on time to devote large amounts of it scouring vintage resale sites for the perfect Arne Jacobsen piece? There’s no need to turn your home into a museum for the sake of a retro revival.

Instead, pick and choose which elements you’re comfortable with adopting. This could look like deeply coloured velvet cushions, a statement sculptural lamp, patterned wallpaper or bringing in materials like chrome, rattan or darker wood tones. It’s all about mood over method, which makes it the perfect formula to adopt when your stuck in a style rut.

New Metal

New Metal Soft Stainless interior design trends 2025 (1)
Image: Frama

Most commonly associated with industrial-style interiors or Brutalist aesthetics, metal has often felt out of place in most homes that don’t meet the material’s seemingly strict brief.

But over the last 12-months, there’s been a significant vibe shift in regards to this once-misunderstood material.

No longer trapped within industrial or even commercial boundaries, the new metal renaissance is here to stay.

While its renewed popularity won’t come as a surprise to lovers of 20th century design or mid-century collectors, its ever-expanding use in homewares, furniture and decorative accents – most recently in stainless steel and chrome, is a welcome introduction.

And like its similarly embraced interiors trend, brown (which also pares perfectly with metal), its aesthetic influence just keeps increasing.

In 2025, we’re seeing a departure from the mirror-like shine of high-impact chrome into the warmer world of soft stainless, brushed nickel and aluminium as the finishes favoured by designers and consumers alike.

Interior Design Trends 2025 Soft Metals Runway
Image: Getty

Runways featuring brushed and muted metallic looks were seen across Spring/Summer 2025 collections by the likes of Sportsmax, Bottega Veneta, Peter Do and Prada. While the interiors world experienced a Regencycore-adjacent embrace of the coquette aesthetic that brought decorative metallic accents back from their starker connotations into the realm of the romantic and ornate.

Long a mainstay of modern Scandinavian design, steel, especially in softer interpretation, continued to feature across seasonal collections from Nordic design houses like Ferm Living, Audo Copenhagen, Frama (shown above), Hay, Muuto and Gubi (just to name a few), and often as complementary pieces for rich timber tones and luxe furnishings across the colour spectrum.

Closer to home, new collections from Von Steel celebrate the material’s architectural possibilities, and likewise Rachel Donath’s Yuuki interpretation celebrated its elegance and gentle simplicity.

Metal’s new direction was further emphasised with the return of tablescaping to the mainstream, where intricate serveware by the likes of Gohar World and vintage (or vintage-inspired) dinnerware transformed tables into works of art. And as a new year has started, so too has a continued appreciation for the adaptable material.

Gohar World Netaporter Siler tone dessert coupes

Gohar World Dessert Coupes
$299 at Net-A-Porter

Georg Jensen Lituus vase

Lituus Vase in Large
$320 at Georg Jensen

Trit House Pai Table Lamp

Pai Table Lamp
$349 at Trit Hous

Castlery Pascal Leather Sling Armchair

Pascal Leather Sling Armchair
$899 at Castlery 

Mocha Mix

Espresso Browns interior design trends 2025
Image: @ellisonstudios

A mainstay of last-year’s winter fashion palette that continued to take the spring/summer season by storm, brown has also made its mark in the interiors world – with no sign of slowing down.

Its flourishing revival offers a reprieve from the monochromatic schemes that dominated much of the last decade with a warm and welcoming energy that speaks to the mood of the moment.

Browns Chocolate Espresso Interior Trend Home Runways 2025
Image: Getty

So much so, that even Pantone agreed, declaring Mocha Mousse the colour of 2025 – much to the surprise (and delight) of many. Unlike the vivid, somewhat intense colours we’ve seen in its previous iterations, the earthy elegance of the chosen colourway felt like a course correction for our chaotic times.

And perhaps that’s exactly why the design world is leaning in to the grounding hue now more than ever.

Carlotta and Gee Linen Duvet Cover Chocolate
Image: Carlotta + Gee

Aligned with a more general pivot towards prioritising wellness and sustainability, brown – from chocolate and taupe, to mocha and espresso – evokes a sense of calm and comfort that’s both inherently modern and deeply rooted in the tradition.

But far from the gentlemen’s club aesthetic it was often associated with, the colourway’s contemporary reimagining is all about the power of the new mocha mix to elevate any interior.

Its surge in popularity has also coincided with a renewed appreciation for nature-based colours as a departure from the Scandinavian-style schemes that prioritises a pared-back palette over variations of tone.

Not only are browns overtaking black or grey as the perfect accent partner for neutrals, but they’ve also become one of the most complementary – and universally flattering – shades around.

Think washes of rich chocolate brown accented by powder blue, or the winning combination of espresso and burgundy, and even velvety mocha pared with butter yellow. The options are truly endless and even even extends to our ongoing obsession with darker wood tones like walnut and teak in response to the light oak and white-washed timbers that’ve dominated Modern Coastal and Scandi schemes for years.

Take the warm nostalgia created by interior designer Adam Hunter in this project, or the delicious walnut joinery and antique brass hardware in the Helensburgh of photographer and stylist Nat Spadavecchia. Even designer Athena Calderone – whose monochromatic, Parisian-inspired townhouse inspired an entire aesthetic movement – turned to the dark side when she bought an Art Deco gem in Tribeca.

All this is to say that, despite brown existing within the somewhat fleeting discourse surrounding trends, the colour – in all its varied glory – won’t be falling from favour any time soon.

4 Ways With Brown

MCM House Belero Slipper Chair Brushed Linen Chocolate

Belero Slipper Chair
$1495 at MCM House 

Castlery bruno Coffee Table (1)

Bruno Coffee Table
$799 at Castlery 

Carlotta and Gee The Iconic Linen Duvet Cover Set in Chocolate

Carlotta + Gee Duvet Cover Set
$305 at The Iconic 

L&M Home Etro lumbar cushion

L&M Home Etro Cushion
$75 at Temple & Webster

Pattern Drenching

Pattern Drenching Palais Maison Flaneur Interior Design Trend
Image: Palais

Colour drenching was one of the most popular aesthetics of 2024 and as more of us dipped our toes into the world of the brave, our penchant for bolder palettes only increased.

Keen to collectively kick the habit of deferring to white-on-white as the style safety zone du jour, a confidence boost spurred by the addictive force of dopamine design was akin to a warm embrace in an increasingly unstable world.

Now, as we enter a new year that holds up it’s own challenges, maximalism’s next step feels as natural as ever.

Pattern Drenching Interiors Trend 2025
Maximalism reached designer new heights on the Saint Laurent, Dries Van Noten and Valentino Spring/Summer 25 runways. Image: Getty

But don’t just take our word for it.

The maximalist trend was already spotted across the Spring Summer 2025 runways, giving pattern-on-pattern the sartorial tick of approval from the likes of Dries Van Noten, Valentino and Saint Laurent, just to name a few.

And while we appreciate that pattern as a design device can itself feel more dust-collecting than dreamy, the decorative options of today are far from the drawing room décor schemes of old.

Pattern Drenching Lulu and Georgia Sarah Sherman Samuel Interior Design Trend (1)
Image: Lulu & Georgia/@SarahShermanSamuel. Photography: Daniel Peter

What we’re talking about in 2025 is character – and plenty of it.

Dive in with elevated upholstery, fabric and wallpaper in lucid colours and whimsical prints. Or, for a sensible first step, why not try a tonal take like the painterly stripe fabric and wallpaper combination by Sarah Sherman Samuel above?

However you choose to dip into the trend, like colour drenching, it’s all about choosing what works for your space and your mood.

Go big and bold, or stick to the subtle side, whatever feels most in tune with your interior design style is always the right direction – no matter what your algorithm might say.



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1271600 70s Style interior design trends 2025 Image: @shopquarters/@incommonwith. Photography: William Jess Laird. Interiors: Nick Ozemba. 70s interior design runway trend 2025 Image: Getty New Metal Soft Stainless interior design trends 2025 (1) Image: Frama Interior Design Trends 2025 Soft Metals Runway Image: Getty Gohar World Netaporter Siler tone dessert coupes Georg Jensen Lituus vase Trit House Pai Table Lamp Castlery Pascal Leather Sling Armchair Espresso Browns interior design trends 2025 Image: @ellisonstudios Browns Chocolate Espresso Interior Trend Home 2025 Image: Getty Carlotta and Gee Linen Duvet Cover Chocolate MCM House Belero Slipper Chair Brushed Linen Chocolate Castlery bruno Coffee Table (1) Carlotta and Gee The Iconic Linen Duvet Cover Set in Chocolate L&M Home Etro lumbar cushion Pattern Drenching Palais Maison Flaneur Interior Design Trend Image: Palais Pattern Drenching Interiors Trend 2025 (1) Maximalism reached designer new heights on the Saint Laurent, Dries Van Noten and Valentino Spring/Summer 25 runways. Image: Getty Pattern Drenching Lulu and Georgia Sarah Sherman Samuel Interior Design Trend (1) Image: Lulu & George/Sarah Sherman Samuel Design marieclaire-1271600
Step Inside Dee And Tommy Hilfiger’s Dreamy Caribbean Home https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/dee-tommy-hilfiger-home/ Fri, 13 Dec 2024 04:53:44 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1269880 Every detail has been immaculately considered

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I ’m sitting in a suite at the Aman hotel in New York talking belly rings with Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger. “I never got a tattoo, but I decided that I was going to be rebellious and get a belly ring,” she says. “There’s still a little hole there.” I tell her I also went through the belly ring stage. She might be one of the most stylish women in America – and married to fashion icon Tommy Hilfiger – but she’s also the kind of woman who you can chat to about anything.

We move from belly rings to babies. There are seven children in total in the blended Hilfiger clan. “Every decade of parenting is challenging. Every decade is rewarding,” she says. “Kids grow up into young adults, but you’re always the parent. I do the best that I can. There’s no handbook on being a parent.”

dee hilfiger poses at home
Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger infuses design into every part of life. Photographer: Kate Martin

At 57, Hilfiger is many things in addition to being a mother. Glamorous. Yes. Stylish. Unbelievably so. She’s also a designer – her luxury accessories brand, Dee Ocleppo, is synonymous with sophistication. Plus, she is creative director of cult accessories label Judith Leiber, known for its quirky, jewel-encrusted bags inspired by pop culture .

Working has always been important to Hilfiger, who began her career as a model before moving into fashion design in 2012. “Working gives you a sense of self-esteem. I’ll always encourage girls to pursue careers,” she says.

And while she’s married to a man who has built one of the world’s most iconic fashion brands – and remains its principal designer after nearly 40 years – her own creativity is also in full swing, including her innate knack for styling extraordinary house interiors.

“Tommy and I have bought and sold so many houses,” she says of their myriad renovation projects: a 12-room penthouse at the Plaza Hotel in New York; an 8.9 hectare French Normandy-esque estate in Connecticut; a waterfront villa in Florida. “Every project is different,” says Hilfiger. “We base the design on the style of the house, first of all, and the location.”

With their home on the private Caribbean island of Mustique, simplicity is key. “We have a lot of furniture with slick covers,” she explains. “We constantly change out all the lampshades in the house because it ’s right on the ocean, so things rust. We don ’t have anything too precious. It ’s a family home and we also rent it a lot. I would describe it as a chic but user-friendly type of home where nothing ’s too precious or expensive. It ’s designed to walk through with sandy feet.”

tommy and dee hilfiger home
The grand entrance and staircases were envisaged by Arne Hasselquist and Oliver Messel, who designed many houses on Mustique; Tommy Hilfiger’s original brief to UK designers Colefax and Fowler in the 1990s was to “make the interiors as British colonial as possible”, though his wife Dee has since applied her creative touches. Photographer: Kate Martin

While her homes might be grand, she’s personally attracted to smaller, more intimate spaces. “In a lot of our houses, the rooms that have drawn me in are usually the smallest room in the house,” she says. “I like the little cosy nooks.” Hilfiger’s journey into the world of interiors began early.

tommy and dee hilfiger home
Photographer: Kate Martin

As a girl, she’d take great care cleaning and organising her bedroom, describing it as “cream tones and very serene and soft. It was probably more minimal in style.” This early inclination for creating soothing spaces has evolved into a design sensibility that balances aesthetics with functionality. “I need to feel comfortable, and I love to be surrounded by things that are comforting to me or that I feel are beautiful .”

Given how many hats Hilfiger wears at any one moment, calming, tranquil spaces to retreat to are key. “I ’m not going to say that I have the secret to managing overwhelm, because I don ’t. But , for me, having gratitude is key. I ’m grateful to have all these opportunities, I ’m grateful to be busy. I also have a team of people around me that I trust,” she says. One thing’s certain: any space Hilfiger works her magic on – from houses to accessories – is bound to be beautiful.

tommy and dee hilfiger home
The house is, perhaps surprisingly, available to rent. It has five king bedrooms and four twin bedrooms, all with ensuites. Photographer: Kate Martin
tommy and dee hilfiger home

The house sits on the shores of Mustique’s L’Ansecoy Bay and is named Palm Beach for the trees that surround it. Photographer: Kate Martin

This article originally appeared in Issue 10 of marie claire Lifestyle.

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The Maximalist Christmas Trend Turning Trees Into Festive Works Of Art https://www.marieclaire.com.au/life/maximalist-christmas-decorations/ Fri, 06 Dec 2024 10:26:13 +0000 https://www.marieclaire.com.au/?p=1269302 Forget minimalist decorating schemes, kitsch and cheerful is back

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Maximalist Christmas decorations are having a – rather extended – moment, and nothing fills us with more joy than the thought of trees brimming with ugg boots and prawn cocktails these holidays.

Whether it’s in response to the deflating events of the year that’s been, or a desperate bid to find all the fun we can (or afford) in a cost-of-living crisis, you won’t find us meticulously placing our monochrome ornaments around the tree come Christmas. Instead, we’re going baubles-to-the-wall with a more is more manifesto that’s hell bent on embracing festive excess.

Last year’s festive season heralded the beginning of a departure from the “sad beige aesthetic” into the world of colour and kitsch, further popularised by the coquette-core of it all.

Anna + Nina christmas decorations Smallable
(Credit: Anna + Nina )

And it’s not just us. Retailers big and small are filled with maximalist Christmas decorations, where shelves usually dominated by chic, minimalist options to fit the luxury aesthetic, now hold rows of over-the-top hangable takes on everything from pop culture moments to music idols, and even fungi.

Even in the bigger department stores, niche sections that usually housed the novelty items like your standard bedazzled thong, or metallic hot dog, are gradually being allowed to expand out of the naughty corner and into the main aisles.

Cody Foster and CO Iced Coffee Christmas Ornament
(Kitsch for Christmas? Groundbreaking (Credit: Revolve)

It goes without saying that it truly warms our hearts to see a glass pain au chocolate – once derided for its tacky existence – with its plastic, flaky pastry shell now glistening brightly next to the frosted snowflakes and decorative velvet bows. A high-low huzzah, indeed.

Now, this isn’t all to say that we’re done with chasing the stuff of Pinterest holiday tablescaping dreams, or that we don’t find solace in simplicity. No, it’s simply that we are saying goodbye (for now), to sad, beige and boring and jumping on the Tacky Christmas train that’s taking over our feeds, and festive fascinations.

Prawn cocktail christmas ornament
Prawn cocktail, anyone? (Credit: Anthropologie )

Inspired by vintage glass decorations, these playful picks are turning Christmas trees into fun, maximalist works of art, and we can’t get enough of it.

2024’s Best Maximalist Christmas Decorations To Shop

Bubble Tea Christmas ornament

01

Cody Foster & Co Iced Coffee Ornament

$44.30 at Revolve

Tomato decoration

02

Harvest Glass Tomato Ornament

$17.99 at Myer

sushi plate Christmas decoration

03

Sushi Plate Glass Ornament

$14.95 at David Jones

Prawn Christmas decoration (1)

04

Prawn Felted Friend Decoration

$7.49 at Adairs

Checkered Medium bauble ornament set

05

Checkered Medium Bauble Ornament Set

$163.60 at Revolve


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1269302 Anna + Nina christmas decorations Smallable Cody Foster and CO Iced Coffee Ornament Prawn cocktail christmas ornament Prawn cocktail, anyone? Bubble Tea Christmas ornament Tomato decoration sushi plate Christmas decoration Prawn Christmas decoration (1) Checkered Medium bauble ornament set marieclaire-1269302