Pre-order new Escape Edition Now!

Photography Mindi Cooke  /  Styling Kylie Jackes

Our brand new Escape edition is almost here and available now for pre-order through our online shop. Here’s a little taste of what’s in this issue.

Photography Mindi Cooke  /  Styling Kylie Jackes

Welcome to the Escape edition – inspired by my recent trip to California. This issue is all about leaving the ordinary behind and discovering extraordinary destinations, lust-worthy home tours and dreamy bedrooms. Our front cover is just one of those lust-worthy homes – we have featured Kayla Boyd in her amazing kitchen, and well I just couldn’t be happier with the end result – it’s a truly stunning cover right?! Wait til you see the full home tour – I’ve added another little sneak peek look inside, of the bathroom (pictured above). And now I’m lusting after those pink concrete sinks, sigh, just add it to my ever increasing list of must-haves!

If the Scandinavian hygge trend (Danish for cosiness and comfort) is calling your name this winter, you’ll want to step inside Hailey McGinty’s Sunshine Coast abode (pictured below), layered in muted creamy tones and accented with touches of blush.

Photography Mindi Cooke  /  Styling Kylie Jackes

Photography Tanya Zouev  /  Styling Maddy Evennett

Check out Instagram super-star Maddy Evennett of @hutchinson.house’s easy-breezy coastal home (pictured above), it will surely inspire! And for dreamy bedroom inspiration – read our feature, featuring three very different bedrooms, all of which that have embraced natural colours to create a cosy, restful space.

Photography and styling Haus of Cruze

If you’ve ever pondered a trip to the Golden State, all of my recommendations can be found in our special California Dreamin’ feature. The Adore Escape edition is available online for pre-order now (click here to buy) and in newsagents Thursday 14 June.

Concrete Goodness from Harpers Project

Love the industrial and raw look that concrete can bring? You’ll simply adore Harpers Project’s new line of furniture combining concrete with handcrafted eco-friendly timber.

With the Scandinavian mantra, “Buy Once, Buy Well” in mind, Harpers Project produce furniture that will last the test of time. Well-known for their work with marble and solid hardwood, they’ve chosen to expand their range using concrete – introducing a new stool, coffee table and rectangle and round dining tables.

We also adore their full range of homewares and furniture and with most of their online store on sale right now, we thought we'd share some of our favourite styles below.

SHOP OUR FAVE PRODUCTS

Trend: Dreamy Rose

ART PRINT  /  CHAIR  /  TRAY  /  THROW  /  SCONCE  /  QUILT SET  /  LAMP
BEDHEAD  /  MIRROR  /  BEDSIDE TABLE  /  RUG  /  ROUND CUSHION  /  CUSHION

Top 5 Tips for a Hardworking Laundry

Photography Tanya Zouev  /  Interior design Simone Matthews, BAM Construction

Your laundry doesn’t have to be the Cinderella of your home. Follow our five tips for a zone that is as stylish as it is functional.

Words Casey Hutton  /  This is an edited extract from the Autumn 2018 Fresh Edition of Adore

1  MULTI-FUNCTION APPLIANCES

The humble tumble dryer and washing machine have come a long way.

Combined appliances like Fisher & Paykel’s Washer Dryer Combo (pictured above), which washes and dries a load in under three hours, save time and precious laundry space. It’s also very efficient, says Fisher & Paykel’s Lan Nguyen. “The 8.5kg/5kg model has a 5-star water rating, a 3.5-star energy rating for the dry cycle, and a 4-star energy rating for the wash cycle.”

Meanwhile, Bosch’s ActiveOxygen washer removes bacteria from clothes without any additional chemicals besides your regular laundry detergent – and in cold water. Great news for those among us who loathe hand-washing delicates! Its Refresh Program also banishes aromas that have clung to clothes from pubs and restaurants – without the use of water – which is perfect for items that don’t necessarily need to be washed.

MORE WASHER/DRYER COMBOS >

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2 CLEVER CONCEALMENT

Photography Craig Wall /  Interior design The Designory

Photo Rose Jane  /  Interior design Kyal and Kara Demmrich

While laundry design typically focuses on hiding mess, the ultimate trick is disguising the entire laundry altogether! Common in compact European homes, concealed laundries are a smart, space-saving solution.

This guest bathroom (pictured above) by The Designory hides appliances in a cupboard alongside a concealed sink.

“The client wanted the room to look beautiful first, but be packed with functionality behind the scenes,” explains Director Melissa Bonney. The luxurious bathroom includes a long bench, cupboards and a hanging rail for laundry duties, which can be scaled back when there are guests.

The Block alumni Kyal and Kara Demmrich maximise living space in a 60-square-metre holiday studio by making the bathroom multipurpose (pictured opposite). “The room primarily functions as a bathroom, and the laundry is not used on a daily basis,” says Kara.

“If you’re considering concealing your washer/dryer, ensure you’re going to be happy to open and close cabinetry often.”

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3 DESIGN FEATURES

Photography Tanya Zouev  /  Interior design Simone Matthews, BAM Construction

Photography Tanya Zouev  /  Interior design BAM Construction

Can cool design elements make doing the laundry a less irksome task? Simone Mathews of BAM Interior Design thinks so. She enlivened this laundry (pictured above and left) with lighthearted artwork and exposed copper pipes that appear to abseil down the wall to the sink.

This laundry is simultaneously serious about storage, with cabinetry including a drawer under the sink (“often people find a cupboard awkward with the pipes”). An antique timber coat rack complements the rustic tapware and ties in with the style of the home.  

Homeowner Shelley Gunton turned an existing brick wall into a design feature by whitewashing it, and installing striking timber and black cabinetry (pictured below). “The open shelves are great for easy-to-reach items, but also work as a space for styling. The matching washer and dryer give it symmetry.”

Simone and Shelley agree that greenery lifts a laundry zone. Small touches such as trays, baskets, towels, wall hooks, and storage containers also add character. “They have the different textures and functions that make a space look complete,” says Shelley.

Photography and design Shelley Gunton

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4 HANGING AROUND

Photography Tanya Zouev  /  Styling Paige Noelle

In petite laundry spaces, sometimes the only way is up: The ingenious hanging drying rack by New Zealand studio George and Willy (pictured opposite) operates on a pulley system, so you can hoist your laundry up and out of the way, and the warm air trapped in your ceiling space will help it dry.

Wall hooks, hanging rails and even traditional-style clothes airers provide other practical options for drying on rainy days. In a dual bathroom/laundry, try a generous towel rack (shown above in this clever zone by MJK Building), which can accommodate laundry as well as towels.

MORE HANGING OPTIONS >

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5 STYLISH STORAGE

Photography Kelli Kroneberger  /  Interior design Anna Smith

A laundry can become a dumping ground for all kinds of miscellaneous household items – from pet paraphernalia to sports equipment – and of course, piles of washing. Clever designs like these however, transform a utility space into a zone that’s both hardworking and handsome.

Anna Smith of Annabode + Co. stacked her washer and dryer (pictured above), maximising space for cabinetry and closets that hide her water heater, skis, bikes, paint cans, lightbulbs, old blankets, camping equipment, craft stuff, cleaning supplies and more – impressive!

Photography Tom Roe  /  Interior design Smarter Bathrooms+

Photo Grace Picot /  Interior design Kyal and Kara Demmrich

Meanwhile, a copper-wire basket and glass canisters keep laundry supplies within easy reach. “Glass canisters elevate everyday objects like clothes pegs,” says Anna. “And it's helpful for when we have guests – they don't have to hunt for anything.”

Hanging racks, as seen in these laundries by smarterBATHROOMS+ and professional renovators Kara and Kyal Demmrich provide handy space for delicates, kids’ clothes, school uniforms and ironing. “The ironing board is recessed into the opposite wall, and we customised the door front to match the rest of the laundry,” explains smarterBATHROOMS+ Design Manager Vanessa Cook, whose laundry design (pictured above) also makes room for dog necessities, tennis racquets and sports shoes.

All three also incorporate open shelving, which is, as Kara points out, “a great way to break up the clinical feel of the laundry, and an opportunity to provide style and personality.”

MORE STORAGE SOLUTIONS >

Travel: The OC Guide

Having visited The OC in California earlier this year, I decided it was time to put my guide together to the best shopping and accommodation in the region.

I had a blast discovering so many cute boutique stores in The OC region! On top of my must-visit list was Lido Marina Village in Newport – a mix of charming boutiques and stylish shops, set in a delightful village ambience. Each store looked so beautiful - think coastal/barn/country cottage style details with a treasure trove of wares to explore. Serena and Lily (pictured at the very top of post) was drop-dead-gorgeous – the outdoor space was very inspirational (I was jotting down ideas left right and centre). Sugar Paper (pictured above) was another highlight – as a self-confessed stationery addict, I could have easily bought one of everything in store! You can even enjoy al fresco dining overlooking the marina. A handy hint for those visiting in the Spring – Malibu Farm (pictured below) is opening a new restaurant on-site soon.

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Looking for a stylish stay in Newport Beach? Designed with an effortless sense of style and a definitive beach-house vibe, Lido House is Newport Beach’s newest designer hotel. The hotel’s design and iconic architecture celebrates Newport Beach’s Cape Cod aesthetic with elegant twists on a variety of nautical themes. This hotel is just another reason for me to visit The OC again. This beauty wasn’t around when I visited, but I’ll be sure to book a stay next time.

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I am so bummed that McGee & Co.'s brand new Costa Mesa store didn’t exist when I visited in February. Oh how I adore Studio McGee’s interior design style, and now that they have a shop, well that’s just too much temptation for me. Hmm, maybe it was a good thing they weren’t open when I visited, as I probably would have come back with a few extra suitcases and a dent to the old credit card! Their brand spanking new store is on my list of places to visit next time I visit the OC. Make sure to put it on yours too! Click here to check out this cute video of the store.

Photos of McGee & Co. store by Kate Osborne

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Laguna Beach in the OC is such a sweet little coastal town, filled with art galleries, cafes, and boutique stores, and a bustling beach scene. I stayed at Casa Laguna, a charming boutique hotel – small in size, but big on personality thanks to interior designer Martyn Lawrence-Bullard! Wallpapered ceilings, encaustic patterned tiles and fully stocked bar cart are just some of the endearing features of this hotel. Oh and did I mention the ocean views from the balcony, complete with loveseat? The complimentary breakfast, sangria on arrival, and freshly baked cookies in the afternoon are just some of the sweet additions to make your stay an unforgettable one.

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Whilst Pacific City is technically an outdoor mall, it’s a really cool one, designed well and oh-SoCal in style. It also helps that there’s some great shops to explore too. Plus a bonus is that there’s some great gourmet eateries in their Swell Eats food court. We popped in for some lunch after working up quite the appetite from a little retail therapy. There was even a place selling Aussie meat pies, that sold me! What can I say, it was the end of our trip and I was missing home. You ought to add Pacific City in Huntington Beach to your itinerary if you’re visiting The OC.

Colour Trend: Rusty Sunset

SP01 AT MILAN DESIGN FAIR  /  POTS  /  CUSHIONS  /  CLOCK  /  CHAIR
DRESS  /  BOWL SET  /  ART PRINT  /  BAG  /  BASKET  /  BENCH SEAT  /  CARD

Maegan Brown’s ‘After—Form’ Exhibition

Maegan Brown, a Melbourne-based photographer who documents dramatic landscapes around the globe, will be debuting her first solo exhibition at the ‘Apartment’ by Sisalla Interior Design in South Yarra.

Photographed throughout Death Valley National Park and the Mojave Desert, After—Form depicts the isolated, enduring and prehistoric landscapes which were formed more than 150 million years ago, during the age of the dinosaurs. From dramatic canyons to peaceful valleys, Maegan Brown explores celestial terrain, focusing on the relentless and prevailing nature of the vast and expansive environment. Multi-coloured rock formations, geologic textures and fascinating displays of erosion create a conflicting sense of force and calm; everlasting, primitive wilderness.

Join Maegan Brown and the Sisällä team at the opening night on Thursday May 3 from 6 – 9pm for a celebratory drink. The exhibition continues Friday May 4 to May 31. For a catalogue and to register for pre-sales head to maegankb.com/exhibitions. Pre-sales open 10am 2nd May.

Trend: Olive Desert

BRANCH PRINT  /  PENDANT LIGHT  /  DESERT PRINT  /  WALLPAPER  /  NAVY CUSHION
OLIVE CUSHION  /  WARDROBE  /  CHAIR  /  VASE  /  TOWEL  /  CACTI CERAMICS  /  BASKET

TOP FINDS: CHEST OF DRAWERS

1 PRETTY PINK

With my cheap chest of drawers now on its last legs, I’m on the hunt for a new option – here’s what has caught my eye.

I love the colour pink in the bedroom – there’s something so pretty about it, and I’m very tempted to pop a pink chest of drawers in my bedroom. Whilst this Sienna Console from Adairs (pictured above and opposite) isn’t technically a chest of drawers, it does have a couple of drawers for storage. Ok so it would probably work better in a guest bedroom, but isn’t it pretty (and currently it is under $200)!

HERE’S MY TOP 3 FAVOURITE PINK DRAWERS:
1 MARIUS  /  2 FEZ MOTHER OF PEARL  /  3 MOD ESTELLE

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2 TIMBER

The next category is timber drawers – they certainly can warm up a space, and there’s so many to choose from! I’ve rounded up some of my favourite styles including this clean and contemporary Balmain Tallboy in oak, from Urban Couture (pictured above). I love the two open compartments at the top – this would be great for stashing jewellery and other accessories that you want to access easily.

I couldn’t help but also share this Mod Dresser from Ubabub too – I love the juxtaposition of the white geometric metal detailing down the side with the Ash timber. Could be used as a change table in a nursery – or as a chest of drawers for an adults bedroom.

This style above – the Charlie chest of drawers from Lilly and Lolly – might be aimed at kids’ rooms, but I think it fits equally as well in adults bedrooms (the size is certainly comparable with other full size chests of drawers!). And I love the Natural Tassie Oak and White Wash (pictured above) finishes it comes in.

HERE’S MY TOP 3 FAVOURITE TIMBER STYLES:
1 ROMA  /  2 ETHAN  /  3 RAFFLES

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3 BRASS DETAILS

I think you’ll all know by now I’m a sucker for anything with a brass detail, so naturally this had to be a category of contenders for my next chest of drawers. West Elm seem to be leading the way with options – and this Audrey three drawer dresser (pictured opposite) is probably my favourite at the moment. It also comes in a 5 and 6-drawer option for those needing more storage.

I swear kids furniture online stores have the best selection of drawers – no joke! I spotted this sexy number, pictured above, with shiny gold legs and handles on Potterybarn Kids website. It’s the Flynn Dresser - and again - the proportions aren’t just for kids’ rooms – this one would look great in any adults’ room, in fact I think I might want it for myself.

HERE’S ANOTHER 3 STYLES WITH BRASS DETAILS:
1 FAIR ISLE BONE INLAY  /  2 MODERNIST  /  3 SIENNA

The Print Emporium's New Collection

After launching the brand last year, The Print Emporium’s creative director Zoe Bristow has released her second artwork collection at Sydney Life Instyle trade show. We sat down with Zoe and got all the details on the new range of beautiful art prints.

1. Tell us about the new pieces in the collection, and the inspiration behind them?
In this collection, we have added over 100 new designs into our ever-growing range, which include more florals, birds, Scandinavian/nordic themes, and also a range of hyper-realistic detailed black and white prints. We also have a new Palm Springs Doorway series, which is a range of designs that we hand-painted from photographs we shot late last year in the Californian city – such an amazing place. Also, we just launched a Baby Nursery collection (pictured above), a collection of cute baby animals, all hand-painted and made available as reprints.

2. Can you tell us about how each piece is created?
We photograph first, or licence photos from photographers, then we employ over 15 artists privately (mainly in Australia, with a few from overseas), to hand paint each with oil paints or acrylic paints, taking tens of hours or even more depending on the complexity. They're mini masterpieces in their own right, we then have them digitized in Melbourne by a husband and wife team using very high quality European cameras, the same that top art galleries use for reproductions, and then make them available as stretched canvases or framed/unframed giclee paper prints. Our printer/framers are also based in Australia – we love supporting local manufacturers! This is very important to us. The whole process takes months for each collection and is a huge investment, but it makes for something pretty special in the end we think!

3. How has the new collection been received at Life Instyle - any standouts or popular styles?
We were blown away with the reception, actually I hardly sat down, as the stand was overflowing with people constantly, which was insane! The standouts were our new hero floral 'Spring Bouquet' (pictured above) – this one was a clear standout, as was 'Vintage Blooms' (pictured right at the top of blog post). Our new Palm Springs Doorway range was a hit, a few of the birds flew off the wall (literally) and the new Baby Nursery range was very well received too. Buyers told us that they were loving the quality and timber frames, and also the fact we have fresh new designs that have been hand painted which looked far better in person than on our website. In fact, some buyers sat there in front of the stand wall and turned to us and asked if they were looking at a painted design or a photo, as they are that detailed!

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT OFFER

Love the range as much as us? The Print Emporium are offering an exclusive discount of 10% off storewide – just use the code ADOREHOME at their checkout. But hurry this offer ends expires 30th April 11:59pm. Click here to shop the range.