Beds with Hidden Storage

Symphony storage bed from King Living  /  Styling Darren Palmer  /  Photography Felix Forest

Whilst I love my bed, my biggest regret was not purchasing one with inbuilt storage underneath. Here are some great choices for those of you on the hunt for a bed with hidden storage.

If my budget were a little more robust, this Symphony storage bed from King Living (pictured above and right) would be at the very top of my wish list. The bedhead wraps around creating an incredibly cozy and lavish look. The timber frame hides a deep storage compartment – ideal for blankets, extra pillows, and seasonal items that get stored for half the year (like winter clothes). The one pictured was styled by Darren Palmer and I just adore everything pictured with it. If you feel like seeing more, click here to see the blog post with more pics.

Something a little more in my price range would be this elegant Eleanor gas lift bed (pictured below) from Brosa. I like the horizontal upholstered panelling on the bedhead and the fact that you can store items underneath with its easy-to-use gas lift function. They have lots of different styles of bedheads available which include storage bases, and plenty of colours to choose from too, so I’d recommend you take a look (by clicking here).

Eleanor gas lift bed from Brosa

Halo bed frame with storage from Domayne

Another worthy contender – the Halo bed from Domayne (pictured above). Twin drawers fitted in the foot of the bed feature full extension drawer runners that allow you to discretely store pillows, cushions and blankets.

I have rounded up my top six styles with hidden storage. I’ve chosen classic styles and colours that won’t date... Enjoy!

ONE /  TWO  /  THREE  /  FOUR  /  FIVE  /  SIX

Trend: Tropical Oasis

THROW  /  PLANT HANGER  /  PENDANT LIGHT  /  PRINT  /  BEDHEAD  /  LAMP  /  MIRROR
BEDSIDE TABLE  /  CREAM CUSHION  /  PALM CUSHION  /  CHAIR  /  RUG  /  QUILT COVER

A LIFE IN COLOUR

We recently caught up with Coco Republic Design School colour consultant Sharon Gage. She opens up about her impressive 25 year career as a colour specialist.

What drew you to the world of colour?
Colour has been, and always will be, the anchoring feature in my life. My earliest and most fondest memories of colour are from my childhood – watching my mother sew and bring home wonderful coloured fabrics to make clothes for me and my siblings. I was always mesmorised by the colour combinations, patterns and beautiful textiles that lay before me. This firstly drew me to the world of fashion design and then ultimately to the wonderful world of colour and interior design, where I now play. Today there is nothing more I long to do, than to teach in this field and to share my colour knowledge to the next generation… in the hope that I will eventually tell the whole world about colour.

Why is it important to study colour theory?
It is so important to study colour theory as it ensures you gain a solid understanding of the basics in relation to colour. Understanding the theory of colour is like learning to read a new language.

What is the best thing about being a colour specialist?
The best thing is having a vision for someone’s residential home or commercial space and being able to enhance its appearance by providing a contemporary colour scheme that you know will look amazing. To be able to transform a space and make it even more magical, just by waving a paint brush of colours to the walls and providing a final colour scheme and story for my clients, is a hugely powerful thing.

Another wonderful thing about being a colour specialist is understanding the power of colour to control human emotions. Learning to understand how colour can literally change people’s lives just by the impact it provides is so rewarding.

Another wonderful thing about being a colour specialist is understanding the power of colour to control human emotions. Learning to understand how colour can literally change people’s lives just by the impact it provides is so rewarding.

What would your number one piece of advice for someone wanting to embark on a career as a colour consultant?
Just go for it. To be able to offer colour advice to my residential, commercial and overseas clients and to help them enhance their interior and/or exterior spaces is a wonderful privilege.

What is your favourite colour and why?
My favourite colour has always been green. It is my happy, go-to colour. It has of course, evolved over time. As I have matured, so too has the colour green. The green hue I once loved years ago is now not as bright or as intensely mid green as it used to be. These days my favourite green hue is more of an aqua/blue based colour. The psychology of colour comes into play here with this colour now depicting a more cooler, calmer, contemporary green hue, more in keeping with the freshness of the ocean and the green/blue hues found in nature.

If you’re interested in studying colour or another aspect of interior decorating - you may want to check out the courses on offer from Coco Republic’s Design School. They have various courses on offer - some lasting a few weeks, others just a few days, and covering a variety of topics. Click here to check out the courses. And if you’re interested in winning a course of your choice - check out our Instagram competition on right now.
 

NATHAN + JAC'S two hot NEW RANGES

Nathan + Jac’s savvy stylists take the hard work out of curating your home decor by providing pre-styled room packages, homewares, artwork and cushions. Here’s a look at their two new collections Provocateur and Cumulus.

Styling Beck Simon  /  Photography Eve Wilson

If you struggle to decorate a room, you’re not alone. To make it pain-free, Nathan + Jac have several pre-styled room packages to help you add the finishing touches to your home decor and achieve the style you desire without having to hire an interior designer. Every piece has been chosen by their interior designers and stylists, ensuring every piece works together to create a look that is both cohesive and contemporary. Their two latest collections for Autumn/Winter are both moody and sophisticated. Click here to shop the Provocateur range.

The first look is Provocateur, sultry and provocative – this look is underpinned by bold, luscious lips, red wine tones, a hint of rouge and sleek, sophisticated lines.

The other collection - Cumulus - draws inspiration from the team’s adventures to New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud.

Lush green pastures, towering sand dunes and a sense of engulfment of untouched beauty. The collection has a hint of masculinity, and a palette as natural as the landscape – green grass, muted blues, charcoal and sandy beige leathers.

Click here to shop the Cumulus collection.

If you don’t need a whole room package, each of the items can also be bought separately. 

Within each collection they release a range of cushions that have been designed by their team and made in Melbourne. You’ll find predominantly a variety of plain coloured, textured cushions – think rich velvets, linens, quilted fabrics and leather. And because they’ve been designed to sit within their collections, you can guarantee they’ll go together perfectly.

Freedom Kitchens’ Top Design Tips

We’ve sought the design advice from the experts at Freedom Kitchens, on how to achieve your dream kitchen. Here’s their top 4 top tips.

All images are of Freedom Kitchens installed on The Block, 2016

---

1 CONSIDER YOUR STYLE

One of the most important questions to consider when designing your kitchen is: what does your home and lifestyle need from this space? The traditional kitchen style continues to be very popular in 2017 – as it doesn’t date and can be easily updated with accessories, such as handles. For a true traditional style, think white routed cabinetry, detailed handles and glass or subway tiled splashbacks paired with luxe benchtops from Caesarstone’s stunning marble effect tops or timber-look laminates. If you want to push the design envelope, consider matte black cabinetry for a dramatic and modern effect.

---

2 PLAY WITH COLOUR

Colour is back in a big way. You can use it in a variety of ways – from a pop of colour in a bank of cabinetry or splashback – through to layering different shades of one colour across various surfaces. Colour trends that were prominent at last year’s EuroCucina kitchen fair in Milan were shades of blue (navy is a great alternative to black and pairs beautifully with gold accents), green, teal and pastel.

Balance a splash of colour with Caesarstone marble or concrete-inspired benchtops, coupled with white-toned cabinetry and integrated appliances. This creates a thoughtful and modern take on colour in the kitchen.

---

3 IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Renowned interior designer and judge on The Block, Darren Palmer, describes handles in the kitchen as ‘jewellery’. The humble handle has the power to inject instant glamour, interest and complete the kitchen style you wish to achieve. Be sure to select timber handles to complement a Scandi look, while ornate or chrome cup handles enhance the Hamptons style. Or, if the modern kitchen is more to your fancy, use handleless and touch-catch cabinetry to complete the look.

Another trend that featured heavily in the stunning kitchens on The Block last year, was display enclaves and breakfast tables incorporated into benchtops. Breakfast bars designed into or extended from an island bench, are a winning feature for any entertainer or family kitchen. Display enclaves within an island bench allow you to showcase your personal style and display décor.

---

4 STORAGE IS KING

Smart storage solutions can transform how you use your kitchen space. Adjustable drawer dividers for cutlery and kitchen utensils, mean that these essential items can be easily stored and found. Furthermore, spice drawers, knife holders, towel rails and base units built into drawers or cupboards allow you to optimise your kitchen space.

Make every corner of your kitchen work hard for you – from small accessories, such as corner carousels to transform those pesky corner cupboards, all the way to pantries. Space permitting, a walk-in or butler’s pantry concealed from the main kitchen will also provide extra storage space – helping to hide mess when entertaining. If space is tight, opt for a pull-out pantry with adjustable shelving to store all your necessities – or customise your own by adding drawers inside the cupboards.

By integrating your appliances and accessories, you’ll enhance your kitchen design in 2017. It’s these hidden gems within the design that transform your space from ordinary to extraordinary.

Begin your kitchen journey, with Freedom Kitchens’ image gallery – or download their new autumn catalogue by clicking here. Book a free in-home design appointment with Freedom Kitchens today: www.freedomkitchens.com.au

SHAKIRAAZ HOMEWARES’ BEAUTIFUL BEDSPREADS

Feminine floral prints, shibori indigos, and Mughal art were the inspiration behind Shakiraaz Homewares’ stunning new bedspread designs. We take a look at some of our faves from the new collection and chat to owner Shakira Lima.

Photography + styling The Design Villa

Shakiraaz Homewares owner, Shakira Lima has always had a love affair with florals and Mughal art and architecture. “I wanted to bring these two concepts together in one range,” explains Shakira. “My floral range is a combination of some of my designs as well as some block prints sourced and combined together. A lot of product development and colour matching to Pantone shades has been done to get the desired effect.”

With an Indian heritage, it’s no surprise that Shakira travels to India every 1-2 years to visit the textile fairs and markets to seek out talented artisans to bring her visions to life. “Currently we are working on a range of laundry baskets all handwoven by artisans of South India with the proceeds going directly to them through not-for-profit organisations,” says Shakira.

Combining the traditional look of Indian designs with English style florals gives the collection its broad and unique appeal – suiting coastal, hamptons, country or modern eclectic homes. The colours are also swoon worthy – as you can see these vintage style bedspreads can be styled beautifully in the bedroom with the addition of linen and textured accent cushions and pillows.

The Indigo range is equally stunning, each one entirely handmade by artisans in India. Meaning no two pieces are exactly alike. “Our brand stands for handmade and handcrafted goodness with small runs of products,” says Shakira. “We don’t do mass produced.”

Shakiraaz Homewares are offering an exclusive discount for our readers – 10% off storewide (including items on sale), just use the code ADORESALE at the checkout. But you’d better be quick as this offer ends 31 March, 2017. Click here to shop.

TOP 5 KITCHEN TRENDS FOR 2017

Interior design Kyal and Kara Demmrich  /  Photography Rose Jane

In the new edition of Adore Home, we explored the hottest kitchen trends stepping it up in the design stakes this year. Here’s a look at our top five favourite trends for 2017.

Words Jacqui Greig + Loni Parker

---

1 COOL PASTELS

Interior design Arent&Pyke  /  Photography Felix Forest

Interior design Kyal and Kara Demmrich  /  Photo Rose Jane

Colour choices in kitchens don’t always trend towards the safe option, and these kitchens prove pastels can be given a modern edge. Counterbalanced with clean lines, crisp white ceilings and wooden accents, pastels become more than just pretty.

Former The Block contestants Kara and Kyal Demmrich now run their own design and construction business, and their kitchen design (pictured opposite and at very top of this blog post) features Taubmans grey-blue ‘Iron Gate’.

The retro vibe of the grey-blue pastel is accentuated by the custom-made wooden door handle of the pantry, and integrated fridge door – both of which were made by surf lover Kyal, whose inspiration came from a 1960s Malibu surfboard.

Moving away from a retro influence, the interior design team at Arent&Pyke utilised the muted olive greens of Dulux Waltzing and Pozieres to create a calm and sophisticated kitchen (pictured above).

Interior design Three Birds Renovations

Three Birds Renovations weren’t afraid to take a risk with this dreamy pastel colour scheme. Using Taubmans ‘Misty Lake’ for the cabinetry was a bold move that has paid off. Combined with the gold pendant lights and door handles, and the Caesarstone Statuario Nuvo benchtop and splashback, the look is one of sheer luxury.

---

2 MATTE BLACK

This image and below: Interior design Poss Sampieri  /  Photography Doswell & Mclean

While one does not usually associate matte black with kitchens, these uber stylish spaces cannot be denied. Brisbane-based interior designer Alexandra Macmillan is passionate about collaborating with clients to create bespoke design solutions and has created a bold and masculine look with this client’s kitchen (pictured below).

To combat the inevitable grubby marks on cabinetry finishes, Alexandra selected a mid-matte, 2PAC finish in Taubmans ‘Trendy’. “It’s a softer alternative to straight black, and more forgiving on fingerprints and dirt. The black finish held up surprisingly well around tradesmen in the final stages of construction works, so I feel like it is prepared for anything now.”

For Poss Sampieri, owner of boutique accommodation Nord House (pictured above), the use of matte black in the kitchen was an extension of the pared back elegance featured throughout this oasis of contemporary Scandinavian design.

“You simply can’t go wrong with black,” says Poss.

Interior design Alexandra Macmillan  /  Photography Mindi Cooke

---

3 AU NATUREL

All 3 images pictured in Au Naturel section: Interior design Cantilever Interiors  /  Styling Ruth Welsby  /  Photography Martina Gemmola

The trend for pairing wooden elements with a crisp colour palette is a natural winner. Just ask Cantilever Interiors, who prefer Blackbutt veneer and Hoop Pine plywood to bring a soft warmth to their kitchen designs.

“Introducing a balanced element of timber into the kitchen helps connect it to the whole home, tying in with other timber elements often found in windows, floors and furniture,” says Travis. “Using white to balance the warmth of timber is a classic palette that will last as long as the kitchen.”

“We are influenced by mid-century furniture and architecture,” says Travis Dean, Director of Cantilever Interiors. “The ethos of the era has influenced our approach to materials, and design motivations.”

---

4FOREST GREEN

Interior design Black Lacquer Design  /  Photography Mary Costa

Colour palettes of earthy hues are definitely trending, and in 2017 we foresee interiors embracing rich tones of green, such as these moody forest shades. And how to complement this bold colour choice? Whites and warmer tones, like those found in natural timbers, are a tried-and-true option (pictured below). Or, ramp it up with black marble and gold accents (above) for a sexy, dramatic appearance.

Caitlin Murray of Black Lacquer Design loved the idea of a high-gloss, deep British racing green: “This green is simultaneously bold and anchored, which I think stems from it being a colour that exists in nature. When using a bright colour, I like to ensure that the other elements are sophisticated, to keep the design from feeling kitschy. The subtle contrast of marble and brass accents elevate the aesthetic, allowing for the dramatic wash of green to make sense,” she explains.

Interior design Anna Smith  /  Photography Chandler Kim

Anna Smith, designer behind the kitchen opposite, chose a more muted – but no less successful – green for her kitchen. The bright, open space allows for the island bench (painted in Benjamin Moore’s earthy ‘Cushing Green,’ lightened with ‘Simply White’) to shine, tying nicely with the timber accents of the kitchen.

So, if you’re looking to transform your kitchen, take a leaf from our book and go green.

---

5 HAMPTONS

This image and below Interior design Rita Chan Interiors  /  Photography Taryn Kent

The coastal-influenced Hamptons interior is traditional, but imbues a sense of relaxed comfort and timeless elegance. What makes this design choice an excellent one for kitchens is the longevity of its enduring style, making it a popular choice for 2017 and beyond.

Rita Donahoe of Rita Chan Interiors in the US says that while the foundation of a Hamptons-inspired kitchen may be traditional, the overall feeling is casual and easy-going: “I love this aesthetic for the happy feelings it evokes.”

When it comes to styling, Rita loves to incorporate wood accents to add warmth to what is usually a predominantly white kitchen, as evidenced in her work pictured above and to the right. “I don’t think you can go wrong with all-white pottery, and vintage glass canisters and mason jars for food storage. I tend to set a neutral foundation and bring colour in through fresh flowers,” she says

Interior design Design by Danni  /  Photography Rikki Lancaster /  Cabinet makers Juro Design

This is a style that works well with our relaxed Australian lifestyle, as evidenced by Danni Morrison of Design by Danni’s kitchen pictured above. “Typically, you will find lots of white in a Hamptons-inspired kitchen, as well as striking white marble (or stone), detailed cabinetry, subway tiles, and thick legs around the island bench,” says Danni.

This is an edited extract from Adore Home’s Autumn 2017 edition, in newsagents now.

LINEN HOUSE’S WARMING WINTER COLLECTION

Linen House have released their new Winter 2017 range, and I’m drooling over all of the divine goodness available. You’ll find not just bedding, but also a range of trendy homewares – making this their most exciting and diverse collection to date.

I love to change up my linen in the winter, there’s something so warming about having layers and layers of lush bedding – a textured quilt cover, chunky throw, comfy pillows and cushions that you just want to dive straight into. And if you’re looking for a really diverse range of styles – Linen House have got you covered. Tribal textures and patterns are a standout style throughout the new range - anyone after a boho feel for their bedroom will just adore the new styles available.

Looking for a more minimalist look? You’ll adore their simple Hemsworth design (pictured above) – made from a grey marle cotton jersey – it’s as comfortable as your favourite lived-in t-shirt. Other styles this season include the signature pure linen range, printed digital textures, floral, art-inspired abstracts and quilted geometrics, all in contemporary, neutral colours. Honestly, there’s pretty much a style to suit any style or taste. And what I love about linen, is that you can instantly change the look and feel of the room just by changing up your bedding. Boho one week, pretty and pastel the next, it’s up to you!

I’ve rounded up my fave styles from the new range here - but hop on over to their website to see much, much more by clicking here.

Trend: The Hills Are Alive

THROW  /  CHAIR  /  ROUND CUSHION  /  LIGHT  /  FRAMED PRINT  /  POTS
CUSHION  /  MAGAZINE RACK  /  SOFA  /  QUILT COVER  /  SIDE TABLE  /  RUG

WINTER WITH OZ DESIGN FURNITURE

Baxter buffet and Milly designer chair

Each season OZ Design Furniture continue to wow us with each and every collection, and their Winter 2017 range is no exception. Here’s a look into our favourite styles.

Charlie three-seater sofa, Baxter buffet, coffee and side tables, Remi designer chair

If you’re looking to transform your interior, you’ll want to check out OZ Design Furniture’s new Winter range of homewares and furniture. Their designers have created various collections inspired by global, coastal, and urban trends, so you’ll find the perfect pieces for your home no matter what your decorating style.

Porto round dining table and bookcase, Tanduk dining chairs

Spectre three-seater sofa in velvet, Hermon coffee and side tables

Finlay buffet

This winter it’s all about warming up your home with luscious textures. Premium velvets and rich leathers are in abundance within the new range – for example, their Spectra three-seater-sofa (pictured above and below) is available in both of these options and I just adore both looks. Available approximately April/May this year, we have a sneaky look at it here, pictured on our blog. I adore it in that beautiful deep turquoise colour – dreamy right!

Natural timers and hints of black are also great ways to warm up spaces this winter, as evidenced here with the Finlay dining table, buffet and Amanda dining chairs. Add a splash of greenery in the form of plants, and you’ve got the perfect combination.

Click here to shop the range.

Spectre three-seater sofa in leather, Hermon coffee and side tables

Finlay dining table and buffet, Amanda dining chairs

Cosmo three-seater sofa, Fritz coffee and side tables, Ada designer chair