For a few weeks every year, my pears put on a great show in my front garden. Blossoming in white, they are a welcome addition to the streetscpape, after a dreary winter. The pears are also maturing nicely, we pleached them two years ago and they are beginning to provide the canopy we had hoped for, without overpowering anything at ground level.
There is a lovely shot of the adjoining house entrance and veranda in this months Australian House & Garden (October issue, out now).
This month in "Melbourne Home & Living Magazine, Lara Bailey writes about my new book "Country Style & Design"...
"Having spent his childhood at historic Pigeon Bank in the Yarra Valley, Melbourne-based interior designer Justin Bishop had a love of all things country instilled in him from a young age. His book, Country Style & Design, was published recently, and as Lara Bailey discovers, Bishop has much wisdom to impart to avid home decorators.
With a collection of stunning imagery gathered over a number of years and expert hints and tips for creating a beautiful country aesthetic in your home, Justin Bishop’s Country Style & Design is a stylish and accessible book that will prove invaluable for anyone longing for a country-style home.
While there is no doubting the allure of a sleek and striking contemporary home, there is certainly something to be said for the raw beauty and elegance of a country-style design.
The epitome of comfort, warmth and timelessness, well-executed country-style homes provide distinct charm that will stand the test of time and enchant even the fussiest house guests.
Here, Bishop explores his love for country design and reflects on his experiences in compiling material for his book. With an encyclopaedic knowledge on the topic, he is the perfect source for interior design advice.
THE COUNTRY WAY
Bishop’s earliest experience with country-style interior design took place when his parents’ vision to restore Pigeon Bank to its original condition, complete with genuine period details, took hold.
“My father was keen to give the house a grand facelift. Sometimes his decision-making leant more towards ‘city mansion’ than ‘country farmhouse’, however my mother held her ground firmly. The renovation and restoration of Pigeon Bank was sympathetic to its origins and it personified true country style,” he says in Country Style & Design.
With the knowledge instilled from this experience informing his career later in life, Bishop is wellplaced to offer advice on how to best achieve the country-style design he so adores.
“My idea was to present a stunning book for those wishing to emulate this style of design, whether they live in the country or the city, in a mansion or an apartment. They may be relocating, renovating, or simply looking to be taken on a journey by a book about a style they love,” he says of the book.
Bishop believes it’s the appeal of country living, combined with its irresistible design elements, that makes country-style décor so enduringly popular.
“It’s a practical lifestyle – more priority is given to practical requirements and general lifestyle considerations. Country living can often be perceived as being a slower, quieter way of life, but in no way is it cut off from the happenings of city life, thanks to modern technology! There is a wonderful feeling of self-assurance in removing yourself from the pressures of city life, and embracing a wholesome country attitude. It’s a very fulfilling lifestyle choice.”
WHERE THE CITY MEETS THE COUNTRY
Bishop suggests the big picture is as important as the smaller details when it comes to achieving genuine country-style design, and that it’s best achieved on various levels, large and small.
“For the best results, think about the ‘overall’. True country style should work from the architecture of a room as well as the fine details. This doesn’t mean you should consider rebuilding, however, large, open-plan designs can appear too contemporary [for this style, so] consider dividing up large areas into zones to create more traditional, intimate spaces. Use furniture in groups; [arrange] rugs and lighting to achieve this.
“Large, freestanding furniture is another way to achieve a country look. Built-in kitchen cabinets could be replaced with freestanding timber dressers and kitchen tables [for example].”
COLOUR BE DAMNED
One of the things informing Bishop’s interpretation and application of country-style design is an aversion to colour, which he feels is key in achieving a genuine country look.
A subdued and restrained approach to colour can result in an authentic and tasteful design.
“I have often said that I do not like colour. For the most part, this is true. I do, however, use colour on the odd occasion as an accent or to work in with an existing colour scheme. The correct colour choice plays an important part in setting the tone for a country house, and I use natural colours wherever possible.
“[The key is to] work with a controlled colour palette. Colours that calm, such as white, beige, brown and antique gold, work into the accents of a country colour scheme. These colours are integrated onto walls, found in floor coverings and divulged in decorative accents.
“Warm whites and creams are my first choice … with accents in timber and other natural tones. If you’re keen on including colour in a [countrystyle] room, use restraint. Perhaps limit your choice to one or two colours – for example, a pale blue or olive green – that blend in with an otherwise neutral colour scheme.
“Wherever possible I like colour to be faded and aged; to have been painted or printed years ago and have lost its strength over time. While this may sound like a purely decorative concept, it works well in practical situations. It is as much about the colour itself as the objects I combine.
I might use faded blue linen on a kitchen breakfast table, red leather in a dining room or study, or soft green silk curtains on a window looking out to a garden.
“A controlled use of colour will not overpower a room, but draw harmony to it. It is a subtle approach and works well when combined with an otherwise neutral colour palette.”
FIND YOUR STYLE
Bishop says he’s been inspired by a range of styles from places across the globe that have shaped his notion of country-style décor.
These include Upstate New York, Connecticut and Maine in the US; rural Scotland, north of Edinburgh, Stirling and Glasgow; Yorkshire and the dales areas of Britain, and last but not least, the Australian Outback.
By identifying which style you most associate with or most aspire to, you can begin planning your country-style interior.
“The look of Outback Australia is basic and raw, with a solid ‘no-fuss’ attitude, while French style is lighter and always includes a touch of glamour,” he says.
“English country-style represents a slightly battered country estate look, with plaid, striped or floral accents. American country is grand yet rustic – think large log cabins and stately ranch houses, built to last.”
Bishop’s book goes into great detail about the various elements that comprise English, French, American and Australian country-style design, and can help you discover which style suits you best. If you’re drawn to a certain type of backdrop, accessories or furnishings, you may find one style stands out to you as being the best for your home.
WELL WORTH IT
Bishop advises that homeowners not be discouraged about achieving country-style design, even if their home or apartment is cramped or lacking space.
“Most of my tips [in the book] … lend themselves to smaller spaces. Light colours are a good option in [small spaces] and allow as much natural light into the space as possible. Also, definitely work with a theme – try to choose pieces with commonalities, i.e. similar tones and in timber and fabrics, and restrained, harmonious colour schemes. Avoid too much clutter by controlling your collections. [A good idea is to] group items into small vignettes on shelves or tabletops.
“Another idea is to think of your décor as an overall ‘collection’. Choose items that are focused on throughout your scheme. They should work well together because they have a common thread – they may be from a similar era or style [for example], [or] they may be a similar colour or texture. This way you will create a feeling of harmony and avoid an over-cluttered chaos!”
There’s nothing quite like curling up in a cosy blanket next to a roaring fire and taking some time out to read a book, and homes with a snug and welcoming country-style aesthetic have this ambience in spades. If you’re careful with colour, avoid clutter and select the best products for enhancing your space, you can have a timelessly decorated house that truly feels like a home.
Bishop says it best: “[Country-style design] transcends time and can be carried over generations. It’s not precious; I love that it demonstrates an aged character and history through the authentic nature of its design. It evokes a feeling of days gone by; of remembering ancestors and your family origins.”
Country Style & Design by Justin Bishop, published by Images Publishing, is available now. RRP $59.99.
Quite a few of my current projects are going full steam ahead at the moment. I am working hard to keep everything on track.
A large home extension in Melbourne s inner east (as seen in my previous post) is really moving forward. A lot of my ground work is now coming together as the house is finally at "lock up". The interior work is ready to begin, including a kitchen that I designed when I started working on the house a few years ago. Many of the hard finishes are arriving that I've carefully chosen with my client, doors and other architectural details and colours. Very exciting!
A seaside house on Melbourne s Mornington Peninsula is having a make over, with lots of beautiful styling taking place this week. I'm taking the property to a new level for my client, and its going to be a stunning home.
A large federation property in the inner north, that I've been working on since construction began, has new furnishings arriving constantly. These include some stunning handmade walnut tables and dining chairs, new mirrors and other art works. It's beginning to look like a beautiful home, as these final details fall into place.
I've begun major renovation plans on a stunning "English" country home in Red Hill. Construction will begin over the next few months. Beginning with the bathrooms and kitchens, we will eventually make our way through the entire house.
Two houses in The Dandenong Ranges are coming together, with my designs providing the finish that these houses deserve; classic, elegant country style!
I'm heading off to a property outside of Yea in central Victoria, where I'm visiting a beautiful country property for the first time. The owners are ready for some interior work and are planning an extension to the existing house. I'm really looking forward to beginning this one.
On top of this, my style and design workshops are under-way with another class in early September. Always so rewarding, I look forward to these workshops and I plan each day, individually, depending on the participants needs.
I love my work and I'm so fortunate to be this busy.
I'm currently working on the renovation of an original Californian Bungalow in the leafy inner suburb of Hawthorn, in Melbournes east.
The house is typical of the area, with a lot of its original detailing in tact, so the decision was made early on to keep as much of the existing property as possible and to extend the house in a style in keeping with its character.
An 80's extension was removed before work began late last year, and its now really taking shape.
My client has great style and I've been working closely with her and the builder to ensure every detail is on the mark. From floor plans to the smallest interior fittings. We have a solid aesthetic that we are working towards.
It's a contemporary twist on a classic Californian Bungalow. Clean, simple lines with elegant styling. The interior will be very white and clean with a fair dollop of sophistication and glamour. A stunning mid grey and white exterior will be fresh but in keeping with the traditional bones of the property.
The house is almost at lock up and we are now finalising a variety of internal and external details. It's at a very exciting stage.
2012 also marks the exciting development of another new project for me in Sassafras. Plans are well under way for my first step into the world of boutique accommodation. Something I've wanted to do for years but knew I should wait until the time was right! Set on my property but in a completely private position with its own separate entrance, my vision is slowly unfolding.
My guest house will be beautifully designed in my classic traditional style but with up to the minute technology to ensure its guests an absolutely unforgettable stay. With the bustling village of Sassafras right at its door step its the perfect retreat for a quick nights getaway, or to relax, unwind and stay a while in Melbourne's beautiful Dandenong ranges.
After nearly two years, the renovations to my home in Sassafras are complete. It's been quite a long journey and I'm looking forward to opening the house again very soon.
I'm also looking forward to being able to entertain again. This year we will be throwing a big 40th birthday bash, a series of my "Style & Design" workshops, (see http://justinbishop.com.au/workshops/) and my book launch, just to list just a few occasions.
I'm such a homebody these days that I love using the house for such events - and to do it in style! The house has become my haven, after a challeging and unpredictable few years, I'm so lucky to have reached a point where I'm content and settled again, its a great feeling!
Over the past year, as some of you may know, I have been writing my first book. It's been a wonderful project and I've enjoyed every moment.Now, after a lot of work, I am now pleased to announce, that it is out on the shelves! With a score of media reviews, it has made its way onto book-stores locally and overseas.
My "Country" book is a collection of images, stories and style notes, that I hope will inform, entertain and inspire its readers. While writing this book, it became clear to me that it was becoming quite a personal expression. I offer my views on country style from its origins to the present day. I cover the various countries through which I have travelled, including England, France, America and Australia, providing some favourite style images from these destinations.
I provide style tips on kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms, suggesting ways that I see them fitting best into country inspired homes.. I also delve into my past and describe my own background, growing up in the country and how that has affected my design philosophy today. It's not a typical country book, but a representation of my vision of what is ‘country style and design’.
(Photography and writing have become two of my most favourite past times.... it's a wonder that I didn't embark on this project years ago!)
I have always admired the style of the fashion designer Bill Blass - his work was classic and simple - with beautiful detailing and classic tailoring. His apartment in New York, which he designed with the help of Chessy Rayner and Mica Ertugun of the interior design firm MAC II, reflects the same aesthetic.
Situated at No. 1 Sutton Place, Manhattan, I was fascinated by the interior. I remember the first time I saw it, perhaps twenty years ago. It was timeless, gracious and and it oozed the most exquisite classic style that I had ever seen.
The furniture was very Regency in style and the decorative details were wonderfully quirky, featuring globes, architectural models, and columns. The apartment was masculine, monotone and to me it was... perfection!
I love this quote from the man himself...
"There is a sense of dignity, a simplicity and a classicism in my clothes which can be read into the apartment. As I am surrounded with colours and fabric all day I look forward to a monochromatic home. I work in fashion - I don't want to live somewhere that looks fashionable." - Bill Blass
I have always admired the style of the fashion designer Bill Blass - his work was classic and simple - with beautiful detailing and classic tailoring. His apartment in New York, which he designed with the help of Chessy Rayner and Mica Ertugun of the interior design firm MAC II, reflects the same aesthetic.
Situated at No. 1 Sutton Place, Manhattan, I was fascinated by the interior. I remember the first time I saw it, perhaps twenty years ago. It was timeless, gracious and and it oozed the most exquisite classic style that I had ever seen.
The furniture was very Regency in style and the decorative details were wonderfully quirky, featuring globes, architectural models, and columns. The apartment was masculine, monotone and to me it was... perfection!
I love this quote from the man himself...
"There is a sense of dignity, a simplicity and a classicism in my clothes which can be read into the apartment. As I am surrounded with colours and fabric all day I look forward to a monochromatic home. I work in fashion - I don't want to live somewhere that looks fashionable." - Bill Blass
"Country Style & Design" by Justin Bishop was officially launched last night at Readings Bookshop. Thank you to everyone who attended and to Readings for hosting the event.
Melbourne-based stylist, Justin Bishop will be discussing his divine book, Country Style & Dessign, sharing ideas and answering your questions about creating the perfect ambience in your home and garden.
Thursday the seventeenth of May, 2012 at 6.30pm
READINGS BOOKSTORE - 701 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn
Free, but please book on 9819 1917
This weekend I went "Country".
My good friends Janelle and Callum have opened an amazing cafe, in the town of Avenel in the shire of Strathbogie, Victoria.
I've watched from afar, over the last two years, as they've slowly transformed the former town bank into a truly amazing oasis in the heart of this sleepy village.
Their hard work has certainly paid off and it is now a charming wood fired pizza restaurant with an absolutely stunning garden complete with a kitchen garden, a huge open outdoor seating area and a lake!
I spent an afternoon with them and enjoyed every minute. (Not hard when the pizzas are to die for, the platters are superb and the service, unfaltering.)
I'm going back soon, for a longer stay!
Below are a few shots that I took during the afternoon.
