Índex per April 2020 a Inside Out

As I write this Editor’s Letter I’m working from my dining table at home, while the rest of the Inside Out team is scattered across the city putting this issue together from theirs. It’s strange – the world is in shutdown but I am totally amazed at the spikes of kindness appearing all around. There are Facebook groups popping up to identify people in the community who need food and medicine delivered by volunteers, neighbours checking in on each others’ toilet-paper situations, and families who are determined to see this time as positive. It may be enforced, but there is something lovely about staying home, spending time together, cooking and eating and enriching the homes we live in. Now is the perfect time to sow a kitchen garden, finish the…

1 MATCH MAKER Why it works The black colour and arched elements bring them together. Middle Of Nowhere ‘Mira’ arched mirror with frame in Coal, $369, Life Interiors. Slim Compact drawers in Black Oak, $799, Brosa. 2 TEAM TERRAZZO Why it works The minimalist MDF-framed mirror is perfect for the Deco-style dresser. Dylan mirror, $199, Freedom. Mod resin and wood terrazzo commode in White, $3500, Fenton & Fenton. 3 LIGHTLY OAKED Why it works This dresser’s lightly bronzed metal legs subtly echo the oak-framed mirror. Gazzda ‘Ena’ oak mirror, $510, Curious Grace. Gemini walnut-veneer dresser in White Lacquer, $699, West Elm. 4 CANE & ABLE Why it works Stylish but hard-wearing, cane is awesome for a›relaxed setting that will say current for years to come. Alfie cane mirror, $99, McMullin…

What was it that initially drew you to design? I never did get drawn to design; it kind of sucked me in by mistake. But it’s a career that allows you to refresh your own job every day by overcoming new challenges or plunging into somebody else’s universe or even exploring a new manufacturing technique, material or use. What was the best advice you received in your early years? To be honest, I never listened to much advice.    What does your design process look like? It looks a little like chaos theory. I like to surround myself with possibilities and then find a pattern or a connection between seemingly unrelated possibilities. Where do you find inspiration and how does that usually translate to a piece? Well, honestly, it’s by…

Paintings of natural environments allow a blissful moment of pause in which the viewer is lost in the landscape. In this work for Curatorial+Co, artist Ingrid Daniell has used stylised and abstracted forms to build depth and dimension, drawing the eye beyond a fringe of trees to a sun-dappled sea. Blinded By The Light Over Paradise also hints at the beach down the road from Kristy McGregor’s eastern Sydney home. Joining it on the interior designer’s mantelpiece is a large Asymmetry vessel by Kerryn Levy and glinting brass-ring candleholder from Great Dane. See page 50 for more details of the home.…

“Have a contingency plan”KRISTY McGREGOR, INTERIOR DESIGNER/OWNER “We realised pretty early on that we needed to rewire the entire house. We had no option but, while it did affect the budget, we had allowed a contingency plan for unforeseen circumstances, which really helped with our stress levels. However, unanticipated rising damp was a surprise. Although it wasn’t a huge issue (easily overcome with a damp-proofing injection into the brickwork), we hadn’t budgeted for it.”…

“The block is very square, which was a little hard to work out a design for, but actually meant more creativity was required”JASON EDMISTON, PROJECT MANAGER/OWNER This home was truly a case of thinking big on one of the smallest of sites – and not a project for the faint-hearted. The man behind it is Jason Edmiston, who began with a compact 213-square-metre plot of sandy land in Perth’s sunny Scarborough and wanted his first home – and build – to meet a lot of criteria. “I’m a bit of a research nut,” says Jason, a contract administrator for Built, a large construction firm. “I’d grown up living in a house that was cold in winter and hot in summer – and yet we have one of the most temperate…

The handmade finishes and natural textures of the walls and floors add to the home’s unique organic feel. Lime-based plaster covers the walls, while cement-compound floors have been hand-trowelled over the original floor tiles. “We ensured all the edges were slightly rounded to add softness to the space, and that there was movement and texture in the way the plaster was trowelled,” tells Karmin, who says the floor’s finish is spot-on for the coastal location. “It’s super hard-wearing and great for family life beside the beach.”…

For this Melbourne home, interior designer Johanna Hay had a clear brief: to create continuity between the old and new parts of the house. She did so by stripping back the palette to a monochrome scheme and using light and dark tones liberally throughout. This has allowed the greenery in the neighbouring park to play a bigger part, reinforced by shots of green in onsite elements like this trailing plant.…

+ Working with a receptive designer “We’d heard that some designers enforce their viewpoints on clients, but Joh was very conscious of what we were trying to achieve. She helped us realise our vision,” says Kirsty. + Smart kitchen storage “Joh measured each of our appliances and made sure there was space for them in the pantry. We also used pocket sliding doors on some of the cupboards, which means we have easy access to most items but can also hide things away.” + The great outdoors “Removing the pond on the deck has made the outdoor space feel much more open, and swapping our French doors for glass sliders has created a much-needed indoor-outdoor flow. We use the deck much more now.”…

Do you find yourself staring aimlessly into a pile of clothes wondering what to wear (again) and questioning why you’re still holding on to those pants, every morning? Same. Liberate your ‘floordrobe’ and take back sartorial control with a wardrobe to make Carrie Bradshaw weak at the knees. 1 storage The philosophy of Marie Kondo may be sparking a little less joy these days, but her guide to ruthless decluttering still holds true. In order to figure out what you need from your wardrobe, you have to decide what you don’t. Start by creating an inventory of all your clothes, shoes, bags and accessories. From there, shelving and hanging space can be designated. “Allocate enough long hanging space for coats and dresses, and plenty of shorter hanging space for shirts…

Q I want to freshen up my kitchen/dining area without renovating. Do you have any simple styling tips? Sam, via Instagram When it comes to styling your kitchen/dining room, simplicity is key. One of the best ways to refresh your space is to play with texture. Start by adding some textured vases in different heights and colours with beautiful fresh blooms. This will instantly add a sense of freshness and airiness. In terms of new furniture, leather dining chairs or kitchen stools ooze sophistication and are also extremely practical for wiping away spills. Never underestimate the importance of a comfortable dining chair, particularly when entertaining — it’s important for everyone to feel comfortable enough to linger around the table after a good meal. Finish the space with a gorgeous pendant…

In recent years, Phillip Withers has become one of Australia’s most acclaimed landscape designers, winning a slew of awards, including ‘Best In Show’ at Melbourne’s International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS). Here, he discusses the wonder of natives and the therapeutic power of gardening. What sort of gardens does your firm focus on? We’re very broad. For the first few years, we were predominantly residential, but recently a greater number of commercial clients have approached us because they appreciate what we’re doing. Whatever the project, we’re trying to achieve the same thing: to bring biodiversity and a sense of feeling or emotion to those outdoor spaces. You’re working on a project with Yarra Valley Water called ‘It’s Our Time’, which focuses on natives. What’s the aim? We’re trying to create…

the rite stuff Restore and rebalance by engaging in the ritual art of arrangement with the new Ancient Greece-inspired collection from L&M Home. Handcrafted using stone and concrete with the soft, familiar forms of ceremonial vessels, each piece – (from left) Artemis, Zeus, Ares and Orpheus – offers a chance to create a soothing silhouette at home. Style as standalone pieces or fill with abundant fruit, dried foliage or striking blooms. lmhome.com.au…

Tell me about yourself and why you were drawn to the art world. I grew up with an artist residency program at my family’s property (the Atlantic Byron Bay) so I was given the opportunity to learn from other artists and their practices while growing up, a unique opportunity for a child. In regards to why I am drawn to the art world, I’m still trying to work out where I stand in regard to my art. What/who influences you? I am interested in the story behind the artist – that’s how I can engage more deeply with art. Basquiat living in NY as a black artist; you can feel it communicated through his art. Rothko’s struggles; I feel it in his art. Understanding them more inspires me, but I…

Tamsin Johnson SYDNEY INTERIOR DESIGNER AND ATELIER OWNER PROJECT A 1950s home that needed to combat small windows and rising damp “Start with white and go from there” “The first step with clients is seeing what we can start with from their existing furniture, art or lighting. My biggest pressure point is to create space. Before I even start designing, I look for light and function. Light because this always dictates the layout and feel of a space. And function because it’s essential to first understand how a client lives and what they need the space for. I also think that every interior should have something a little strange or unexpected.” tamsinjohnson.com “My secrets? No, you’ll have to engage me. Tricks? Yes! White space makes things feel bigger. Mirrors opposite…

Comforting earth- or spice-based palettes need energising so add contrasting tones of olive, lilac, chartreuse and a hint of brass Ruffle floors with as much rug texture as you can handle. It’s all about the way everything feels so see how softly you can go…

Karmin and Rob’s three bedroom home in Noosa is a breezy oasis that invites you to travel the world. Wandering through the house is an experience akin to looking through stamps in an overflowing passport; you move across Morocco and take a dip in the Balearic Sea, float through treasures from Bali, and then spend time marvelling at the handmade textures of India. “When people visit, they say it reminds them of holidays overseas,” says Karmin, mother of two and owner of Alabaster Trader, an emporium of Indian hand-crafted furniture and homewares that has gained an adoring client base since 2017. Born in Australia, Karmin has travelled extensively since her early twenties, living overseas while collecting the inspirations that eventually drove her to quit a 15-year career in the technology…

“After I posted pics of my renovation on Instagram, I saw another business opportunity”KARMIN KENNY, DESIGNER-IMPORTER/OWNER “Seven years ago I had my heart set on a seamless bathroom and we had an applicator use a product that was supposed to be tadelakt but failed two weeks later. We tried other products and they also failed. After years of research I did a course and shared the process of doing my bathroom on Instagram. I was inundated with requests from women who wanted help to achieve the same finish. I decided to start Alabaster Finishes (a side business to Alabaster Trader) to help educate women on the different finishes available and how to navigate the new world of specialty plasters and finishes.”…

Hands up if you think carpet is only good for bedrooms. Sorry, it’s time to think again. “Carpet can bring a warm, luxurious feel to an interior,” says east-coast interior stylist Emma Blomfield (emmablomfield.com). “It’s a good-value option that needs minimal maintenance – and the range of colours and styles means it can be extremely versatile, too.” There are plenty of things to consider when choosing carpet. “You may really want a delicate wool carpet in a light colour, but if you’re in a busy household with pets and kids, this probably won’t suit your needs,” says Rachael Daniel, national merchandise manager for Carpet Court (carpetcourt.com.au). “The good news is, there’s a lot of choice out there, so you can have something that looks great, lasts a long time and…

“We’re seeing a big push towards custom internal cabinetry, that is, the inside lining of the joinery being crafted in a shade that either complements, or contrasts with, the outer doors. This is a great option for your drawers, too, creating a look that is both premium and functional. Juxtaposing a classic woodgrain or neutral finish on outer cabinetry with a coordinating colour on the inside creates a stunning bespoke design, while making items of clothing more noticeable and easier to locate. Taking inspiration from the colours used throughout your home for the outer cabinetry ensures a seamless look, while the internal cabinetry allows you to be creative and really inject some personal style into your space.”…

This Sydney garden didn’t work for its owners until Custom Creations Landscapes stepped in with a more flexible design. Their key issue was being overlooked by a number of properties nudging up against the boundaries, which was resolved with a multipurpose faux-grass centre and lush living layers on the perimeter. The soft green walls of giant leaves with underplanted foliage have a visual depth that only nature could pull off.…

LOCAL MATERIALS “Consider using local timber and stone rather than importing materials from other countries. It can be really satisfying to think local and celebrate your surroundings — and it gives your garden a sense of authenticity.” SITE-SPECIFIC PLANTS “Take a look around your neighbourhood and see what sorts of plants and trees are already growing in nature reserves or parks. Incorporating these specimens into your garden is a wonderful way to contribute to the language of the area.” COMPOSTING AND VEGETABLES “Every garden should have a compost heap. Use your waste to make fuel that can ignite your garden and create a sustainable circle. Consider a vegie patch, too; even if you don’t grow much, it will deepen your connection with the garden.”…

TOP 5 STOCKHOLM FURNITURE FAIR Anton Assaad, founder of Great Dane furniture, shares his top five picks from this year’s Stockholm Furniture Fair. GREATDANEFURNITURE.COM STAND OUT RISE OF THE SCONCE Wall sconces are having a moment and this travertine sconce with exposed bulb is perfectly simple. Celeste Wall Sconce by Daniel Boddam, $2172.50. DANIELBODDAM.COM WRAP ME UP HALCYON ATELIER Halcyon House’s covetable beach style is now available through its new online boutique, Halcyon Atelier. First to launch is this luxe limited-edition Frette beach towel, $165. HALCYONATELIER.COM.AU NEW SPACE great outdoors Cassina has brought the rock stars of design together for its new outdoor collection, with pieces by Patricia Urquiola, Charlotte Perriand and Philippe Starck (his gorgeous outdoor Fenc-e Nature lounge, above, has an adjustable woven-rope backrest and is priced at…

Melbourne-based property developer Above Zero has partnered with architecture and interiors firm Cera Stribley and renowned international designer Tom Dixon to deliver a landmark residential development called Rondure House in Studley Park, Kew. We caught up with the busy British designer to talk about his inspiration for the apartments, and why it’s more important than ever for residences to be designed with quality of life in mind. How did the collaboration begin? What attracted you to the Rondure House project? Seeking to implement a lifestyle rarely found in Australian developments, Above Zero ran a design competition to find an architecture and interior design firm to work with after securing the site in Studley Park. One of Melbourne’s most innovative firms, Cera Stribley, created the facade and building design, which celebrates…

THE ORIGINAL PH5 pendant lamp by Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen 1958 The form A three-tiered hanging light in painted aluminium with integrated light reflector/diffuser. What makes it special Henningsen is one of the most celebrated lighting designers of his era, creating close to 100 light fittings for the Danish company over a 42-year period. The PH5 was the culmination of years of research into directing and filtering light to avoid glare from incandescent bulbs while ensuring accuracy of colour. Henningsen was not only a lighting designer but also an architect, author and critic. A leading commentator on Danish culture, he wrote for several major newspapers before becoming editor of Louis Poulsen’s NYT magazine in 1941. His first lighting design for Louis Poulsen was simply called the PH. Premiering at…

The-worst-house-on-the-best-street adage is one long spruiked by real-estate aficionados. After all, location is permanent but potential limitless. “We had been looking for a long time and I remember driving past this place and thinking it was close to the beach but in very bad shape,” says Kristy, an interior designer with her own practice. “The location was love at first sight, but the house needed a huge amount of vision. It had zero street appeal and was covered in greyish-brown 1970s pebble-concrete render with rotten timber trims. The landscaping was a series of long weeds and the inside was even worse.” However, the house still ticked a lot of boxes for Kristy and her husband James: generously sized bedrooms, a north-facing living area, a grassy spot out the back for…

“BE ON TOP OF WHAT’S HAPPENING SO YOU DON’T PAY FOR MISTAKES”JACINTA WOODS, INTERIOR DESIGNER/OWNER “The build was delayed by about four months because the certifier hadn’t previously worked in the area, then after the flooring had been laid there was a leak due to an incorrectly installed pipe. This meant that about five square metres of flooring had to be replaced. Once I realised what had happened, I knew we weren’t responsible for the cost — but it could easily have been added to our bill.”…

Who lives here Karmin Kenny, owner of Alabaster Trader; her husband Rob Chamberlain, a media director; and their two children: Nash, four, and Reid, two. The family’s pets are Maggie, a cat, and Myrtle, a dog, both rescue animals. Style of home A 1970s Besser-block beach house that’s become a rustic, Mediterranean-style home layered with international elements. The couple bought in 2013 and renovated over two years. All up, Karmin and Rob spent about $250,000 (including furniture).…

As artistic director of multidisciplinary Paris agency Singular, which specialises in designing and building sets for stores, special events and pop-ups in the luxury sector, Jean-Christophe Aumas was always going to live somewhere stunning. It’s no wonder, then, that his latest pad is a thrilling combination of flea-market finds, collectible art and bold colour set against an impressive 18th-century backdrop. The amazing part is that this maker of modern fantasies resides in a home once lived in by a “sorcerer, fortune teller and magician”, he reveals. Prolific as well as passionate, Jean-Christophe is a leader in his field. Before setting up his agency, he headed the visual identity department at Louis Vuitton when Marc Jacobs was at the helm. Now his clients include Céline, Dior, Boucheron, Nina Ricci, Kenzo, Cacharel…

Who lives here Kirsty Wiltshire and her husband Scott Williams, both radiation oncologists; their two children: Amelia, nine, and Eloise, eight; plus their dog Lulu Rose, a Cavoodle. Style of home A Federation-era worker’s cottage with a dual-level extension that was added in the early 2000s. Kirsty and Scott bought the home in 2009 and made small updates in the years that followed. They began planning their renovation in early 2018 and finished it in April 2019. The couple spent approximately $300,000 (excluding furniture).…

Interior decoration, though, is the adornment of a space with life and beauty. One can be seen as quite clinical, the other full of emotion and human story, and tackling any interior-decoration project can seem daunting to say the least. But broken down into steps, as plentiful as they may be, is the only way to take on such a mammoth task. It’s only then that we can slowly breakdown the process and articulate all of our decisions. know thyself Probably one of the biggest steps in any project – design or build – is the first, and having a game plan is paramount to pulling off a cohesive space. You will want to know where you are headed before you get there because no one likes that kind of…

Living proof that good things can come in small packages, this alluring courtyard in Sydney’s inner east is a lush oasis for its owners. But while the garden may look laidback and inviting now, the road to paradise was pitted with potholes, which were all triumphantly overcome by its creators. Having chanced upon their work on Pinterest, the owner approached Matthew Diamond and Mark Virgona of Custom Creations Landscapes to makeover their compact backyard in 2017. “My worldwide search for ‘small courtyard’ inspiration had me poring through hundreds of photos,” says the owner, “but I traced the one I loved the most back to them.” Ironically, their office was also in Sydney – just a suburb away. “The space we were confronted with here was the archetypical cold, sunken, inner-city…

Spoil yourself with an invigorating fruit tea balanced by delicately herbed Japanese curried-egg sandwiches fruit-infused smoky tea with fennel syrup SERVES 6 PREP 10 mins COOKING 10 mins 1 small fennel, thinly sliced 1 tsp fennel seeds ½ cup (110g) caster sugar Juice of 1 lemon 2 lapsang souchong teabags* Mixed plums cut into wedges, to serve Pencil fennel, to serve 1 To make the syrup, place fennel, fennel seeds, sugar and ½ cup (125ml) water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Add lemon juice and set aside. 2 Place the teabags in a large heatproof jug. Add 3 cups (750ml) boiling water and set aside to infuse for 5 minutes. Remove teabags. Add the fennel syrup, plums and…

While the doors may be temporarily closed at this Sydney-city eatery, there’s no reason why we can’t be adding images of it to our design inspiration list. Reminiscent of the nostalgia and buzz created by diners in Milan’s bustling piazzas, the polished decor is a nod to all things luxe. Featuring interiors rich in timber, detailed with brass and velvet accents and Daimon Downey artworks, we can’t wait to drop in for an aperitivo once service resumes. matteosydney.com…