I have recently discovered the amazing timber mosaics of @thebirchandbloom - and I am in love!
Made from locally sourced and reclaimed barn wood in Texas!!
Can’t wait to work a piece into a project!
AVENUE OF DESIGN
For the first time in 2022, Decor + Design hosted the Avenue of Design, 14 – 17 July at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.
Curated by Tigger Hall and Lucinda Kimpton, the feature was situated on the concourse near the entrance to the exhibition, showcasing the work of eleven eminent Australian interior designers in a series of beautiful vignettes.
A Celebration of Australian Creativity
The Avenue of Design was inspired by the wildly successful inaugural Como by Design event in 2018, which was the brainchild of well-known interior designer Tigger Hall. The magnificent Como House in Melbourne was ‘reimagined’ by high-profile Melbourne interior designers, each decorating a space of the historic property.
With a return to live events this year, the Avenue of Design at Decor + Design was be a unique celebration of creativity and a platform to showcase the extraordinary talent in the local Australian design community.
Designers that took part in 2022 include Melissa Balzan Design, Tigger Hall Design, Kimpton Interiors, Justin Bishop, JAM Interiors, Camilla Molders Design, Collette Dinnigan, Julian Ronchi and Maine House Interiors.
HILTON MELBOURNE LQS
Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street Breathes New Life Into Melbourne’s Historic Equity Chambers Building by international hotel owner and developer M&L Hospitality designed by leading Australian architecture studio Bates Smart.
Built in 1931, Melbourne’s Equity Chambers was renowned for its architectural style and Italian Romanesque and Gothic detailing. In its reimagining as Hilton Melbourne LQS, the building’s old world-charm has been respected and original features restored, whilst seamlessly connecting a modern six-level extension with a 16-level tower to the historic site.
Within its historic walls, the old and new have been cleverly combined, with sandstone, European Oak and bronze materials, creating a traditional yet modern palette against the backdrop of grand high ceilings, marble stone finishes and upholstery in hues of navy, taupe and royal blue.
I had the pleasure of staying there recently for a long weekend. A wonderful experience topped of by breakfasts at Luci, the in house restaurant, and drinks at The Douglas Club, a classic bar with a dramatically moody atmosphere!
Below are my images from the stay.
Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street is located at 18 Little Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000.
PRODUCT REVIEW 07
PLAID!
For me, plaid oozes style, character and charm! I love it in moderation or in full force! It’s one of the most widespread, recognisable and ubiquitous designs in the world, coming in almost every colour and design under the sun. Plaid has meant a lot of different things to many different people during the thousands of years that people have been using this iconic fabric.
Technically, plaid isn’t the pattern’s proper name. That honor goes to the word “tartan,” which was first used to describe the individual colors and patterns used to decorate the clothes of different Scottish clans. While they often came in the same colors, “plaids” were actually heavy traveling cloaks worn to ward off the bitter cold of the Scottish winters. Plaid only replaced tartan once the patterns became popular with British and American textile manufacturers who would recreate fabrics that looked like tartans, but without centuries of symbolic meaning embedded in their clothing.
“If you lived in a remote land, you would buy your woven cloth from the same weaver,” says Scottish Tartans Authority’s Brian Wilton. “And the weaver would not be reproducing a choice of patterns, but a standard pattern using the colors available to him, many of which were vegetable dyes.” Over time, these local patterns became synonymous with the regional clans scattered throughout Scotland.
During the 18th century, tartan was co-opted from Scottish family symbol to military uniform under James Francis Edward Stuart’s 1714 rebellion against the English monarchy. At the time, a pattern now known as “Black Watch Plaid” became associated with the Royal Highland Regiment, a Scottish military force that remained the pride of the United Kingdom’s army until it was disbanded in 2003.
In recent years, however, plaid has had such a strong resurgence that in some places you would be hard-pressed to look around without seeing it used. From fashion (From classic Burberry to the tartans of Vivienne Westwood) and to interiors (in upholstery, drapery and even carpet by the likes of Ralph Lauren Home) plaid plays makes a wonderful statement. In my opinion, whatever the color and context, plaid is a pattern that may never go out of style.
Currently, I am hand designing my own range of plaids! It’s proving to be extremely satisfying. Cant wait to share the results very soon!
Travelling home
Once again, I find myself on my last days of the summer holidays.
And once again, I find myself sad to see them end, but excited for the year ahead. I'm revitalised, renewed, refreshed.
Below are some images from my travels. I hope you find them as inspiring as I do. I love the colours, the textures and the mood!
Inspiration is the key to creativity! I look forward to sharing my creative endeavours with you this year!
THE BEEKMAN HOTEL
Reminiscing about travel this week, and remembering my stay at the glorious Beekman Hotel NYC, a few years ago.
“Built in 1881 as one of New York’s first skyscrapers, then serving as an office block for decades, The Beekman was abandoned for over 15 years before its multi-million-dollar renovation by British architect Martin Brudnizki, the man behind Soho House and the renovated Royal Academy of Art.
Though still relatively new on the city’s hotel scene, the hotel has rapidly gained a reputation as one of New York's most stunning – and rightly so. The central spine of the hotel is the atrium, a nine-storey riot of wrought-iron balustrades under a glass roof. On the ground floor, underneath the atrium, the atmospheric Bar Room is straight out of an Agatha Christie set, all plump sofas, fringed table lamps, green leather-topped bar stools and a long glass case stuffed with conversation-starting curios.”
The Beekman Hotel
123 Nassau St, New York, NY 10038, United States.
HEAD TURNERS
Interviewed recently by KylieJacks of Australian Home Beautiful magazine, I discussed the importance of a hero feature when designing a show stopping kitchen.
Kylie writes: ”Want some WOW factor in the kitchen? Follow our expert guide to choosing the hero fixtures and finishes to set your zone apart…
COVETABLE COOKER
If your cooker is bound to get a lot of use and claim a central position, it deserves hero status says Justin Bishop of Justin Bishop Interior Design. Large ovens suit avid cooks, keen entertainers and big kitchens. “Set the cooker centre stage and consider framing it with thoughtfully designed joinery in-keeping with the style of the oven,” recommends Justin. “Look at the visual elements of your preferred cooker - whether it’s enamel or stainless steel, will dictate the finish of other appliances in the space. Also take cues from the oven handles or bars to select cohesive finishes across hardware, taps and lighting which will create balance within the space.”
Trending Now
“For enduring appeal and functionality I love the AGA eR7 150 in classic white. It’s a timeless choice with character, that works with many period styles, finishes and accessories” Justin Bishop - designer
SIGNATURE SINK
Everything including the kitchen sink, has the potential to be a focal point. Teamed with statement tapware, a sink can deliver exceptional functionality and style, whether you want to create drama with bold black, add luxe sheen with brushed brass, or convey classic charm with an exposed ceramic butler style. For impact and accessibility Justin Bishop recommends placing it in a prominent position. “I love a feature sink on a beautiful big island, or where possible on the same axis as the cooker for visual strength.” If the design calls for two sinks, team the hero, with a smaller version in the same style for a cohesive look.
Trending Now
“The Acquello double fireclay sink from the English Tapware Company is one of the largest most impressive sinks on the market. It’s simple design allows you to expose the front for a classic look, or mount it fully enclosed to suit a contemporary setting” - Justin Bishop, designer
HIA CSR BUILDING AWARDS
I am very proud to have worked as the interior designer on TWO major properties in the HIA CSR Building Awards this year. Between both projects the builders took out the following awards.
Sheridan Building
- Home of the year
- Custom home over 3 million
- Kitchen of the year
- New kitchen over $100k
- New bathroom over $30k
- Victorian laundry
Woodridge Homes
- Winners outdoor projects
- Finalist, Custom home
- Finalist, New kitchen
The awards are a testament to the meticulous and professional work from both builders and their teams. Its wonderful to work in conjunction with these industry leaders. With architecture by Christopher Doyle Architects, it’s clearly a recipe for success!
THE BLACKWOOD SASSAFRAS
In 2020, Melbournes lockdown saw the temporary closeure of my Bed and Breakfast, The Blackwood Sassafras.
It allowed me the luxury of time to renovate and restyle the interior. New details were added in a neutral pallet and woody tones creating a subtle masculine atmosphere. The interior now sparkles with decorative highlights in cut glass and thoughtfully selected vintage pieces.
The Blackwood has the look of a London or a New York apartment from the Edwardian era, and could pass as being built with the properties nearby original house in 1910. There is perhaps a gentleman who lives there, his top hat and cane are on the coat stand, his books are by the fire and his whiskey is in a cut glass decanter on the elegant sideboard. He is passionate about traditional, hand-tailored style but he enjoys the luxuries of the modern world.
The Blackwood Sassafras is styled on this concept; traditional details combined with state of the art technology, to create an exclusive retreat for your enjoyment.
It is booked out solidly through the festive season, but bookings are open now for January and beyond.
https://www.theblackwoodsassafras.com.au
FROM MY DESK 06
STYLING WITH BLACK
Winter in Australia is drawing to a close. We will soon see the colours of Spring and feel the warmth of the sun, and all it brings!
Before we embrace this welcome change, I am still holding on to the last moments of Winter. (It's secretly one of my favourite seasons) A recent evening in Sassafras saw snow falling in abundance. It was truly magical! Winter suits my classic 'gentleman's' style perfectly. It's a timeless indoors aesthetic, be it a traditional dining room with an open fire, or a well-loved home office with vintage books and leather furniture. Dark moody winter style, to me, is perfection!
A feature of this style is the colour black. We see it in soft furnishings and hard finishes. Black timber panelling, black velvet curtains, black marble floors or a painted black accent wall can bring classic, traditional elegance to a room. Especially when used for contrast in an otherwise monochromatic scheme.
Classic black can add character and drama to a space, and this month I am embracing it.
Classic details in my home office, Sassafras. August 2020
PRODUCT REVIEW 05
BLACK ACCENTS
When looking for some contrasting black accents, I search for classic pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Quality is, of course, another important factor, and below are some pieces that I feel really hit the mark...
Reproducing a late 19th Century French double ended bath, the new 'Martha Bath' by London based company The Water Monopoly is a luxurious addition to both modern and traditional bathrooms.
With an opportunity to select brass or copper as the bath’s base material, finish options include high polish, tinned or painted.
The baths may be lacquered or remain unlacquered to patina naturally over time. With a deep base and curved sides for additional comfort, the Martha inspires long hours of soaking, preferably with a glass of champagne in hand.
Available at The English Tapware Company
www.englishtapware.com.au
The 1459 18 'Dame Anglaise' tap in black has been hand made in Italy by Bruno Nicolazzi using low lead brass since 1960. Nicolazzis handmade organic mixers are stylish in design and can be ordered with a variety of handles and in a range of finishes. In black, it is a perfect contrasting accent to an all-white kitchen, or it can be used with other black finishes for a very dramatic look.
Available at Canterbury Sink & Tap
www.sinkandtap.com.au
Wall panelling is a lovely addition to any interior! In black, it is stunning and practical choice for a hallway. It will take all the knocks and scuffs that a plain painted wall or wallpaper won't. It's a dramatic look that can be easily replicated, as a DIY project or call in the experts.
Choose a straight black or a deeper shade of paint for a low-maintenance look, and be sure to pick a paint with a wipeable finish. Team it with neutral furnishings for a truly timeless look.
Black granite is one of the most beautiful stones that you can choose for your countertop, backsplash or vanity top. Black granite countertops are very stylish and easy to maintain. When it comes to black countertops, choosing black granite is one of the best options available on the market.
While a black bench top can sometimes be a severe selection visually, when teamed with subtle warm white joinery, in a flat or low sheen finish, the look will be soft and more forgiving.
Available at CDK Stone and various stone suppliers.
www.cdkstone.com.au
Large statement furniture pieces are a favourite of mine. Ralph Laurens Sheltering winged club chair is updated in distressed black leather. Featuring an ultra blendown cushion, upholstered back, and nail trim. Casters on the front legs are available in antique brass, polished nickel, or pewter.
It is a handsome piece that will add a dramatic punch to a classic interior!
For stockists go to: www.raplphlaurenhome.com
Porter's Paints create rich and beautiful colours, designed by their expert colourists. Crafted with a blend of fine quality pigments to create depth, complexity and character. Their 'Van Helsing' black, is almost black and beautifully subtle.
It's a nice selection for walls or timber work in a dark moody interior.
Available at Porters stores and through Dulux
www.porterspaints.com
And just for fun, don't forget to accessorise. Black accent pieces left sitting on a chair or a stack of books can be wonderfully theatrical. This Bowler hat, sometimes known as a Derby or Coke is a true British classic. The Bowler hat is believed to have been originally designed for Edward Coke. He needed something to protect his head whilst out riding and the Top Hat, typically worn, kept getting knocked off from over-hanging branches. The Bowler's popularity, which once defined civil servants and bankers has increased over the years and become a fashion statement. The Christys' luxury Black Fur Felt Bowler hat comes with a 2.5cm Grosgrain Ribbon Band and Bow. Fully lined with Christys' Red Satin.
Available at Christys' London
www.christys-hats.com
DESIGN ADVICE 06
SELECTING A FIREPLACE
A fireplace is a welcome feature in any space, especially during winter! I was recently interviewed for an article, in Australian House & Garden, where I discussed my top tips on selecting the perfect piece!
Is a fabulous fireplace about more than just heating - what can it add to the look and feel of a room?
JB: A fireplace can be an ultimate style statement in any interior, it gives a room character and visual strength. A fireplace can ground a room by adding a focal point. Seating and occasional tables can be grouped around a fire to create an intimate setting for conversation and entertaining. A fireplace can instantly create a mood that welcoming and inviting
How should you go about choosing the right style of fireplace for a room? I.e. what are the main 3-4 things to consider?
JB: Select a fireplace that features the existing style of elements of the architecture, the interior, or landscape design; ie: think about any existing timber panelling, rock or plaster detailing. It is important to make your selections cohesive, creating a harmonious and continuous style throughout the home. Consider bringing the outside in, by using elements from your home exterior, i.e. matching a rock fireplace face to a rock wall in your landscaping. Also, Decide between real or artificial! There is nothing like a real wood-burning fire for awakening your senses, however, gas-burning fires have become very realistic in recent years and can be a welcome alternative to the work involved lighting a natural wood-burning fire. If choosing gas, avoid unnecessary gimmicks such as OTT built-in neon digital light effects. These will date and be a costly feature to replace.
How can you go about getting the proportions right?
JB: Definitely consider the proportions of the room the fireplace will be in. A large room with high ceilings, for example, will require a large statement piece for balance and scale. Generally, a mantle should sit at almost half the height of the room itself. A small room could perhaps be best with a simple fireplace with minimal to no surround at all.
What are 2-3 of the latest trends in fireplace design? I.e. shape, profile, materials, statement flues etc?
JB: Rather than looking at what’s in fashion, I would suggest that it’s far more important to choose a fireplace that suits the existing features of a home. However, we are seeing a resurgence of natural rock surrounds as mantle pieces and entire floor to ceiling installations. Classic panelled style mantles are also popular and are always a timeless choice
What about wall-mounted heaters - is there any way to disguise them or get them to blend into a room scheme?
JB: Rather than trying to disguise wall mounted heaters, I prefer to embrace them by making them a feature in themselves. Decorative heating panels or metal over grills are a fabulous way of adding another design element to an interior, and there are some great options available at the moment. Just make sure you work with the existing style of the room, not against it!
For assistance in selecting the right fireplace for your next project, please contact me via email or book a consultation by following the link
below.
A limestone floor to ceiling fire surround at a recent project, Brighton 2020
Two traditional fireplaces in a recent project. Timber and cast iron. Canterbury, July 2020