The history and pedigree of this five-bedroom Victorian Italianate home is immediately evident upon first glance at the façade.

The new owners of this Woollahra home had no intention of touching the grand structure, but were keen for the interior styling to better reflect their personalities and stage in life.

Claire Driscoll (née Delmar) of Studio CD was engaged for this project, having previously designed the family’s other property in Palm Beach. As the family had just moved in, Claire was given a completely blank canvas to work with, and a relatively open brief. The owners only requested there be nothing too ‘blingy.’

‘Our clients wanted a fun contemporary, city home with different areas to entertain and special unique places for the children to enjoy,’ Claire says. ‘It was to capture timeless elegance alongside playful youth and be more textural than anything shiny.’

The client’s existing art collection, including a couple of sentimental pieces and wedding gifts, were the key source of inspiration for this project. ‘The artworks bring a sense of fun and lightness to the house which softens its grandeur and masculinity,’ says Claire. ‘They express the client’s vibrant personality and youth through colour and context, and also show support to Australian contemporary art, which is fantastic to see.’

The clients placed their complete trust in Claire from the initial design concept, allowing her to push the boundaries of creativity. Progress updates were provided in a very active WhatsApp group (!) alongside general discussions about life’s daily disasters and joys.

The client’s love of art, travel and fashion were clearly integrated into the new design, creating a richly layered home, with different textures that speak to one another. Claire’s favourite space is the formal living room, that exudes a sense of fun, while still remaining calm and timeless.

Without making one structural change, Claire has successful updated this prestigious home, resulting in a uniquely refined space with a truly adventurous spirit.

Summer has arrived and it’s time to eat all the berries and stone fruit! One of my favourite ways to use summer fruits is in this simple and utterly pretty dessert. With Christmas around the corner too, this Eton Mess is absolutely perfect.

Said to have originated Eton College in England in the late 1800s, an Eton Mess, in its simplest form, consists of strawberries, whipped cream and meringues. I do love it with strawberries, but here I’ve swapped them out for peaches and raspberries, one of my most loved fruit combinations. Feel free to experiment with different stone fruit – nectarines and apricots would be lovely. Some crème fraîche, or even a little plain yoghurt folded into the whipped cream is a nice twist on the original too.

Besides it being super delicious, it can also be prepared well in advance which is especially handy if you are having friends around and don’t want to spend all your time in the kitchen. Just whip the cream and fold through the peach just before serving. If you don’t want to make the meringues for yourself, store-bought ones are a great short cut. With that being said, homemade meringues are decidedly chewier and just that much nicer. They’re not at all difficult to make, it will just require a little forethought as it will need time to cool completely before using. I’ve served this Eton Mess in individual bowls, but in a large serving bowl would be lovely too.

JULIA’S PEACH + RASPBERRY ETON MESS (serves 6)

Hazlenut meringues
2 egg whites
Sea salt
120g caster sugar
50g roasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped, plus extra to serve

Stewed peaches
5 yellow peaches
2 cardamom pods, bruised
2 tbsp caster sugar
Juice of half a lemon

400ml pure cream, whipped to soft peaks
250g raspberries, to serve

Method

Whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt in an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, 1 tbsp at a time, until mixture is stiff and glossy and all sugar has dissolved. Gently fold through in the hazelnuts. Pile the meringue on to the baking sheet and spread into a rectangle, around 1cm thick. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the meringue is crisp to touch but still soft on the inside. Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar, and allow to cool completely in the oven. Break the meringue into large pieces and set aside.

For the peaches, make a small cross at the base of each peach with a sharp knife and place in a heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water and leave to sit for 3 minutes. Remove from the water and when cool enough to touch, peel the skin and discard. Roughly chop the peach flesh into large pieces, discarding the stones, and place in a small saucepan along with the cardamom pods, sugar and lemon juice. Cook on a low-medium heat for 8-10 minutes or until soft. Cool completely and discard the cardamom pods.

Puree half of the peach mixture in a small food processor or with a stick blender until smooth and fold through the whipped cream.

To assemble, dollop some of the peach cream into individual serving bowls, followed by some meringue, a spoonful of the stewed peaches and a few raspberries. Top with more peach cream, peaches and raspberries and finish off with a scattering of roasted hazelnuts.

What else I’m cooking with…

New season garlic, all the berries and cherries (not so much cooking with but definitely eating) and beautiful peppers – stewed, grilled, roasted!

What I’m eating…

All the snacks at Carlton Wine Room. Particularly the house-made focaccia with stracciatella! So good!

You can follow Julia’s food adventures on Instagram and find more fab recipes via her website! 

Natalie Watson has been renovating homes all over Melbourne for years, leading her to discover this Carlton terrace four years ago. The house was wider than usual and on a good-sized block, inspiring Natalie to look past its dire state (‘Cracks in the wall so big you could stick your hand and quite possibly your head into’) to realise its untapped potential.

It was Natalie’s vision to turn this house into short-term accommodation, combining the best elements of a traditional hotel and private home stay. She wanted the space to feel homey and intimate, but not to the extent of having taped-up drawers and family photos on show, as is often the case in Airbnbs!  ‘I love the idea of living like a local for a few days, in a house that is a little bit better than my own home,’ she says.

A mostly monochromatic palette was devised for the interiors, layered with robust materials including concrete, glass, steel and oak. CO-OP Studio designed the incredible linear skylight that runs the length of the southern boundary, creating wonderful shadow play on the whitewashed brick wall below (hence the accommodation’s name).

Renovations took about 12 months to complete and involved almost an entire rebuild. One of the only original elements able to be restored were the mantlepieces, but even these required significant work.

Gardens are often a forgotten element in holiday homes, (especially in the inner-city), but this was of the utmost importance to Natalie, as a trained landscape designer. She envisioned this outdoor space becoming an extension of the house, complete with deciduous trees and a combination of local and exotic plants, grounded in granitic sand. ‘I have incorporated some wonderful ornamental grasses that you ‘view’ the garden through from inside,’ Natalie says. ‘The idea is that come late summer, the garden will turn into a beautiful silvery, gauzy haze.’

All the decor and furniture items have been carefully chosen for joy and relaxation, from the bed linen down to the kettle. ‘I love the idea of elevating these everyday objects so that even making a cup of tea is a pleasure,’ says Natalie. ‘I love interiors that show restraint, that aren’t full of too much stuff…. where you can just breathe out’.

At its core, Shadow House is a holiday home to inspire guests, and help them reconnect with one another. Natalie says, ‘I think we become better versions of ourselves when we are in a calm and restful environment, and that’s what I have tried to create here.’

Book your stay at Shadow House here!

Jenni and Jennie initially imagined Wombat Barn in Daylesford would be their country weekender… but they explain ‘our time here grew from a few days a month to full time very quickly.’ We can’t blame them!

The couple first spied the block when walking past the site, and would occasionally ‘sneak a delicious apple from the gnarly old tree.’ The spot is located on the edge of the town, with the Botanic Gardens just over the back fence. They explain ‘the land had been on the market for a while, and once we envisaged a house to look beyond the neighbours backyards, rather than face the street, it felt right’.

The pair worked with architect Grant Amon to design Wombat Barn, and since it was built in 2011, have gently shifted into the home full time. The concept for the design was to combine the ‘warmth of an English Cottage with the lightness of a Scandinavian house.’ Inside, the warm white and natural wood are brought to life with a collection of ‘pre-loved’ furniture and furnishings. Jenni and Jennie describe ‘somehow we keep adding to this collection with local finds – the objects may change, but the feel remains the same.’

The real heart of this home is the country-style kitchen, where ‘everything and everyone revolves around the table.’ Jenni and Jennie are well-established members of the community (partly through Scrub Hill 1868, a local bluestone church they run as a wedding and events venue). They have become friends with local farmers and producers, meaning their table and benches are always laden with vegetables, fruits, produce and charcuterie from the area. Jenni and Jennie’s own edible garden also contributes to the bevy of gifts for the kitchen table.

In addition to providing endless fresh produce, the backyard is also home to the couple’s beloved guinea fowl, who roam and chatter through the garden. Wombat Barn has two sections under the one roof – one space for Jenni and Jennie, and one as a guest house. So if homegrown veggies, Scandinavian light, and pottering through the local flora and fauna take your fancy… book in for a weekend stay here!

Fibre artist Siân Boucherd is in it for the long haul. Her mum was a ‘master knitter’, and growing up Siân absorbed her expert skills as a quilt maker, knitter and seamstress. ‘Fibre has always been there, a preoccupation’, she admits. She made her first ‘bush basket’ 16 years ago, but it wasn’t until 6 years ago that she took up the practice in earnest.

After initially studying a Visual Arts degree with a focus on drawing and painting, she spent time pursuing a curatorial practice in Australia and the UK. It wasn’t until Siân returned back home to Western Australia from the UK, and started running an art centre for criminal offenders that she really started to unlock the therapeutic and artistic benefits of basket making. She explains, ‘coiling baskets quickly became my go-to as a technique that anyone can learn.’ The work is simple and repetitive – ‘which can be very therapeutic in itself’, she says – but once you understand the basics, all the small creative decisions involved makes for an ‘autonomous project where the scope for possibility is limitless’.

Teaching every day got her hooked, and Siân still finds herself excited by the potential of ‘such a foundational and ancient technology’. She explains, ‘I could spend a lifetime exploring this one simple thing and really see where I can take it. So that’s what I’m doing, it’s a long game.’ Her weaving is snuck into any spare moment – some days a few stitches on the fly, and mixed with full days in the studio with music and dying of fibres where possible. She explains, ‘while it is a slow process, it gives me a real sense of forward momentum, it is thoughtful, incremental work and that pace feels just right to me – almost an antidote to regular life.’

Place deeply informs Siân’s textural, contemporary work. After returning from her four-year stint in London, Sian found new inspiration in the quality of light and landscape in Western Australia. ‘The natural environment asserts its dominance here in a unique way’, she says. ‘A sense of respect and wonderment for this landscape is ever-present in my work, and is reflected in my desire to work in a medium that will one day break down and be reclaimed by the earth’.

Mim Fanning and family renovated their traditional Victorian home 13 years ago, with a view to combine the home’s existing heritage characteristics with a bright, modern extension. The property needed to be ‘future proof’ to accommodate their two sons growing up, who were just starting primary school when the family first embarked on the renovation (the eldest is now 19!). Mim explains ‘we wanted our home to be an easy house to live in, as well as a comfortable sanctuary to spend time together in.’

The front of the house is generously proportioned, with high ceilings and Victorian features. The renovated modern addition at the rear of the home is a bright and airy living space with 4.5 metre high ceilings, and views out to the garden. This new part of the home connects to the original 1886 home via a wide central hallway, which doubles as a gallery. Mim and her husband David are passionate collectors of contemporary art, and every corner of their home speaks to this passion! Amongst their most treasured acquisitions are paintings by John Coburn, Stephen Ormandy and Howard Arkley (!) and many others.

After two decades in the game, Mim has developed a strong sense of what great design means. She explains ‘it’s a way of living. Great design has reason and purpose, as well as form and function.’ Offering her advice on choosing and integrating tech products at home, Mim highlights ‘tech products at home don’t always need to be integrated, and that’s why I love the Samsung Serif unit designed by the Bouroullec Brothers – it has the design flexibility to go anywhere at any time.’ Mim encourages tech solutions that can be moved and adapted to changing family dynamics and rapidly growing kids! ‘Life is about flexibility and change’ she says, ‘that’s why the design of this product is so great.’

Both in her practice and at home, Mim’s design aesthetic is one of refined simplicity. She is a measured, and thoughtful designer, who eschews fleeting trends in favour of timeless, functional design. This is no better demonstrated than in her own home, where she explains that her intent was ‘to keep things simple, play on volume of space, and ensure the design would stand the test of time.’

The Samsung Serif, designed by the Bouroullec Brothers, features a unique I-shaped profile, making it iconic from every angle.  The Serif brings together the very best in contemporary design, with transformative technology.

Chris Stanley, director of Splinter Society Architecture explains that the client brief for this project was for a ‘large family home that was well zoned, robust, low maintenance, private, designed to impress when entertaining, and that would sit comfortably within the streetscape.’ The design was to be both robust and beautiful, and importantly needed to deal with a ‘problematic, rock littered soil condition.’

In addition to this broad suite of hopes and conditions for the home, Splinter Society had their own vision for creating a home that appeared simple, but really delivered in terms of function and detail. The ‘cornerstone’ of the home began with the placement of large-scale quarried rocks, which provided a grounding element for designing the home. Chris explains the aesthetic of ‘monumental, timeless character’ here is ‘reinforced against a rhythmic palate of slender blackened steel and timber elements.’

The home mixes hard and soft, and heaviness and lightness through the use of timber and stone. The property sits on an old lava flow belt that Chris explains are ‘infamous for revealing problematic basalt floaters during construction’, and this challenge informed much of his studio’s design response.

The architects used the geology of the site to their advantage – taking 6 tonne stone blocks from the excavation process as literal cornerstones in the home. Chris highlights ‘you enter the house between stacks of them and feel their weight…their mass and broken natural texture gives a sense of awe and intrigue.’ On the opposite end of the scale, one of the Splinter Society architects had also worked as a contemporary jeweller, and brought some of this experience to this project. Asha employed her expertise in working with stone and metal finishing and detailing in a large-scale architectural context. A true gem of a home!

2019 kicked off to a bit of an unexpected start for the TDF team. After the passing of beloved Mirka Mora in 2018, we were devastated to hear that the Australian art icon’s collection of personal items were to be auctioned off, piece by piece. We decided to launch ‘Mirka For Melbourne’ – a crowdfunding campaign to enable Heide Museum of Modern Art to acquire a significant portion of Mirka’s estate. Well, we were BLOWN. AWAY. by the response! Our goal was to raise $100,000 (which honestly seemed pretty ambitious at the time), but with the generosity of more than 1,000 donors, together we ended up raising over $200,000 in just one week… and somehow, that was only February!

Jumping forward a bit, another HUGE project this year was the inaugural TDF Design Awards in September! This unique awards program covered 12 different creative categories, we had 31 (!) esteemed judges, and there was $30,000 in prize money up for grabs. The ceremony was a BLAST, and a special mention goes to Tim Ross for being our hilarious host and taking it to the next level! (YES, it’ll be back next year – start planning your entries!).

A major highlight of our Design Awards was the incredible trophies that we commissioned by glass artist Amanda Dziedzic. These spectacular art objects were the perfect token for our winners, representing the best of Australian design and craftsmanship. We loved them so much, we ended up showcasing more of Amanda’s stunning sculptural glass pieces in a TDF Collect exhibition just a few weeks ago, in November.

We launched a Sustainable Homes series this year, in partnership with Sukin, taking an in-depth look at homes that prioritise low environmental impact and sustainable innovation. We’ll be sharing more sustainable homes next year, along with a whole bunch more content around design, sustainability and practical solutions to climate change – watch this space!

I got to interview 20 amazing new creatives and entrepreneurs for our fortnightly podcast TDF Talks this year. Some major highlights include Australian design icon Mary Featherston, singer and storyteller Clare Bowditch, magazine and food industry legend Donna Hay, entrepreneur Courtney Adamo and beloved Australian artist Ken Done! I loved learning about the stories of these inspiring Australians! We’ve got 40 episodes (OMG) of the podcast up now – you can go back and listen to them all here.

We closed out the year with a bit of an ambitious task… our EPIC end of year group art show, Art&Artefact! We brought together 21 creatives – 15 painters and 6 ceramicists/makers – for a beautiful final exhibition. It felt a bit like the good old days, where we nearly sold out before opening the show (!), and had people spilling out onto the streets at the opening. I’m so grateful to everyone who supported this show, and to all the artists for really bringing it! Next year we’re planning many more shows from amazing local artists, with the aim to give a platform to emerging (and affordable!) talent.

We had a few changes to our team this year, too. If you didn’t get the memo, we have a new Managing Editor –Sally Tabart! Sally stepped into this role just a few short months ago, and has brought such brilliant energy to the job already – we can’t wait to see where she steers this ship in 2020! We’re saying goodbye to our long-serving Writer and Researcher Miriam McGarry today (boohoo!), and we’ve welcomed the brilliantly talented Amelia Barnes as our new Senior Writer and Researcher. Finally, we also added a new Graphic Designer to our ranks this year – Sasha Aarons slid effortlessly into this role back in July, and we can’t actually remember what life was like without her!

Finally, both myself and our art director Annie Portelli were incredibly lucky travel to Paris this year for the world’s biggest home / gift / decor trade show, Maison D’objet! It was so creatively energising to uncover so many new creative people, places and happenings (see our discoveries here and here) – we very much hope to do more global adventuring in 2020.

Honestly though, this whole thing really isn’t about us… it’s about you. A huge, huge thankyou to YOU, our loyal community, for tuning in to TDF each day, for reading our emails, downloading our podcasts, and double-tapping our instagram pics!  We’re endlessly grateful for your support and enthusiasm, and can’t wait to bring you many more beautiful homes, interiors, studio visits and creative stories, podcasts, events and exhibitions in 2020. Bring it on!

Happy holidays! x

A Jaw-Dropping Apartment Is One Of Australia’s First Warehouse Conversions

Everyone is now familiar with the converted warehouse… but this was one of the first examples in Australia! This home of designer Mardi Orla is seriously jaw-dropping, with soaring ceilings and a New-York-In-The-60s vibe. The vintage mushroom collection is NOT TO BE SCROLLED OVER. We can hardly believe this home is in Melbourne!

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A Stylish, Sentimental Home In St Kilda

When our art director Annie Portelli gets excited about a home she’s styled for one of our shoots, we sit up and pay attention. Annie was seriously buzzing over the St Kilda home of Barb Hyman and her family. Barb renovated this once derelict grand mansion, into a chic and sprawling terrace of finely crafted luxury.

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A Warrandyte Delight

Over the last few years we’ve seen so many Melbournian’s head to Warrandyte in search of a tree change close to the city. Another major plus is the incredible modernist and mid-century homes you can still find in wonderful condition in the area! The unconventional property of Sage and Clare’s Phoebe Bell and Chris Monahan is a perfect example. The sprawling property is home to two families, filled with colourful art and objects, with sweeping views over the treetops.

Revisit the original story here.

A Magical Inner City Treehouse

Fleur Glenn’s treehouse, designed by architect Murray Barker, is truly something to behold. This charming, yet contemporary home in Clifton Hill perfectly caters to this empty-nester’s book filled and tree-lined life!

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The Impossibly Chic Chyka Weekender

Chyka Keebaugh puts her own distinctive flair on her ‘Nordic meets The Hamptons’ weekender! The Big Group co-founder was scrolling through instagram when she spied this holiday home (seriously!) and secured the property! Together with husband Bruce, Chyka embarked on large-scale renovations, including extending the grand master bedroom and major landscaping around THAT spectacular new pool.

Revisit the original story here. 

A Colourful, Art-Filled Family Home in Balmain

Fashion industry expert Sophie Trippe-Smith and her entrepreneur husband Adam  have got some SERIOUS style! This bright and cheerful renovated 1880’s Balmain terrace is filled with colourful Australian artwork and eclectic pieces.

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A Home Of Joy And Light With Alex McCabe In Kip&Co

The home of Alex McCabe, founder of Kip&Co is, unsurprisingly, a joyful burst of colour!  Bright pops of art, textiles and objects create a unique sense of character in this St Kilda home, but the scene-stealer for us is that kitchen splashback. So glam!

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The Timeless Beachside Home Of A Magazine Industry Legend

Deborah Bibby is a magazine industry legend, having spent 11 years as Editor-In-Chief at Real Living Magazine, as well as working as editor at JONES Magazine, Dolly, and Cleo. What a line-up! Deb brings her exacting eye for detail to this renovated beachside haven. A timeless delight!

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A Home With A Warm Hart

Doula Sunni Hart is a veritable ray of sunshine, so it is no surprise that the Eltham home she shares with partner Pete their two kids, Fox and Dizzy, as well as housemates Tilly and Thea, is a warm and welcoming space. The sprawling Alistair Knox-designed property was a dream come true for Sunni, who has long loved the Eltham home. The family have brought their own personal flair to this mid-century delight, introducing their own ’hodge-podge’ of treasured collections to the stunning home.

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A Spectacular Spanish-Influenced Homestead In The Byron Hinterland

If there was one hone that really took our collective breath away this year, this was it. Emma and Tom Lane of the beloved The Farm in Byron Bay shared their own spectacular home in Coopers Shoot in the Byron Hinterland. The Range is set on 120 acres and was designed and built using adaptive reuse principles, with an emphasis on natural and recycled materials. The result it a serene and luxurious haven, designed for inside/outside living. Seriously, if this isn’t ‘living the dream’, we don’t know what is!

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A  Lovingly Restored Mid-Century Marvel In Mount Martha

This circa 1973 home may look straight out of Palm Springs, but it’s actually located just outside Melbourne in Mount Martha.

Originally designed by Karl Fender (now one half of Fender Katsalidis), owner Katie Brannaghan and her husband Ian purchased the property in 2017 and have since returned the house to its former glory.

We shared this spectacular home back in October, and it’s already one of the popular mid-century homes we’ve published to date!

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Avoiding The Coastal Cliché, With Mid Century Flair

This home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is the ultimate combination of beach house, mid-century, and sophisticated modern design.

Studio Esteta recently updated the hilltop home to accommodate six bedrooms, without stripping it of modernist character. Among stunning features are the crazy interior paving and rich marbled surfaces, complemented by original mid-century furniture and decor.

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Enhancing The Past In Studley Park

Our Instagram went crazy upon posting the facade image of this home located on Studley Park, a tightly held pocket of Melbourne’s Kew!

The mid-century home was originally designed by influential Russian-born Australian architect Anatol Kagan, who was committed to designing buildings that had a positive impact on society.

Most recently, the 1950s home has been sympathetically renovated by Kennedy Nolan, who refreshed the architectural beauty of the property, and re-zoned the layout to reflect a more contemporary way of living.

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This Rare Robin Boyd Original Makes An Extraordinary Family Home

Among the many beautiful mid-century homes in Melbourne’s Warrandyte is this 1963 one designed by iconic Australian architect, Robin Boyd.

This home is owned by content strategist and writer Emma Clark Gratton, and her furniture making husband, Lee Gratton, who moved here in search of extra space for their young family.

The seasoned renovators couple have redone the kitchen, added new cabinetry and tiling, renovated the master bedroom, and installed solar panels among many other small tweaks.

We love the spectacular views appreciated via through floor-to-ceiling windows in every room, alongside the beautifully designed interiors full of Gratton furniture and retro finds.

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A 1960s Portsea Shack Gets A Contemporary Revamp

Pleysier Perkins recently transformed this ‘tired beige’ ‘60s shack in Portsea, Victoria into a light and bright getaway that balances mid-century charm with modern family life.

The architects updated the kitchen, dining, and living area in the process to improve spatial flow, added a new playroom, and gave the interiors minor facelift.

Full-height doors at both ends of the new addition connect the space with the outdoors. The boundaries between these spaces are blurred with the use of crazy pavers that gently extend from the interiors to the grassy outdoor areas.

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Modernising A Mid-Century Stunner

This mid-century home in St Lucia, Brisbane, features light and airy spaces to make the most of its subtropical climate.

The property was renovated by Lucy Jeffries as one of the first projects since establishing her own studio. Prior to this, she had been honing her skills with award winning residential architectural practices Vokes and Peters and Shaun Lockyer.

This home was all about paring back and returning the home to its essential form, with a few carefully considered contemporary updates.

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A Corner-Block Mid-Century Classic

Our columnists over at Modernist Australia introduced this 1958 home in Klemzig, Adelaide, to us when it was on the market earlier in the year. It’s since been snapped up, and it’s not hard to see why!

The home has been sympathetically updated by its previous owners, who lived there since 1968. Many original features were retained over the decades, including a glassy window wall looking into the living room, and the wonderfully pink bathroom!

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Mid Century Meets Modern, In This Thoughtfully Renovated 1960s Home

This ‘60s home is pure mid-century from the street, but step inside and you’ll find some seriously glamorous interiors!

Bower Architecture and Interiors were responsible for recently updating this Caulfield property. The brief was to rediscover and celebrate the home’s original features, and create additional spaces with ‘hints of whimsy and glamour (but not glitz).’

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An Amazing Mid-Century Home Gets A High-Tech Makeover!

A dreamy waterfront site meets classic mid-century in Sydney’s Middle Cove.

The house was originally designed by architect Glynn Nicholls (son of Eric Nicholls – Walter Burley Griffin’s Australian business partner) in 1959, but was recently extended by 8 Squared.

The interior design by Studio Gorman is just as impressive, combining ‘50s elements alongside the latest technology to take this home into the 21st century and beyond.

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A Bohemian Blue Mountains Modernist Beauty

Trish from Modernist Australia recently shared with us this incredible find – a breathtaking Blue Mountains home, with Australian modern flavour, and a touch of bohemian flair.

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This Circular Beach House Will Put You In A Spin

Inspired by the modest New Zealand ‘bach’ (aka equivalent of the Aussie ‘shack’) this St Andrews Beach House puts a circular spin on the coastal getaway! Austin Maynard Architects emphasises the use of different architectural styles for beach settings, with the aim of avoiding replicating a suburban home. We think they’ve definitely nailed that brief, with this circular surprise!

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The Ultimate Heritage Restoration Project, On Remote Bruny Island

John Wardle needs little introduction… but Bruny Island might! This island requires a 20 minute ferry from Kettering, a town 30 minutes out of Hobart, but is WELL WORTH the trip. A personal project for the legendary architect, John Wardle has transformed the 1840s Captain Kelly’s Cottage with incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail. Every angle and view from this historic transformation is breathtaking!

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A Rugged Coastal Home By Kennedy Nolan

A rugged holiday home nestled into the coastal dunes of eastern Victoria. The Sandy Point home by Kennedy Nolan is all about the wooden panelling, the cosy indoor nooks, and connection with the stunning surrounding landscape.

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An Easy, Breezy, Beautiful Bangalow Home – Transformed On A Budget!

This 80s fibro shack in Bangalow in the NSW Northern Rivers is one of the cutest – and most affordable –renovations we’ve featured. Over the past 3.5 years, cabinet maker Nich Zalmstra has transformed this humble home from something he and graphic designer partner Holly McCauley ‘hated the look of’ into a dreamy family home.

Revisit the original story here.

A Colourful Family Beach Shack, Wrapped In Shingles!

This little shack went gangbusters on Instagram when we first featured it in May – and it is pretty clear why. The shingled shack is absolutely charming, and combines a story-book exterior, with a low key and colourful interior. Owned by Kate Heppell of Kip&Co and her partner Mal, this shack is full of joy, loose Nordic vibes, and of course, Kate’s stunning bedding and homewares.

Revisit the original story here.

An Artist’s Freshly Renovated, Light-Filled Beach Haven In Torquay

This Jan Juc house has an outrageously cute back story. The owner purchased this home, but had actually grown up in it! Scroll through the wisteria laced, light-filled santuary, as see why Pru was inspired to return back to the home her parent’s built in the 80s – and give it a completely jaw-dropping renovation!

Revisit the original story here.

A Coastal Home That Treads Lightly On The Earth

This timber-clad residence in Cape Paterson may, at first glance, appear as a straightforward architecturally designed home – but in addition to being exceptionally designed, it is also the first home in Victoria to achieve a 10 Star energy rating. As part of an eco village called ‘The Cape’ the beach house combines a deeply considered environmental strategy with the brilliant design of Clare Cousins Architects and The Sociable Weaver.

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A Modern Country Home Inspired By The Aussie Shed

The Wensley is located in a remote rural spot, set back from the Surf Coast of Victoria. Designed by Nick Byrne of Byrne Architects, the form of the building is inspired by vernacular Victorian shed design, and this is echoed in the materials of Australian hardwood and corrugated steel. But inside, this is no ordinary shed!

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A Country Cottage That Makes A Real Splash

The Hill Plains Cottage Pool House by Wolveridge Architects combines guest quarters and a natural swimming pool, and is the personal project of architect and firm-director Jerry Wolveridge, located in the Macedon Ranges, Central Victoria.

The guest cottage is a 50-square-metre single-bedroom cottage, which like Jerry’s home, operates off-the-grid. This mini eco-retreat also offers a natural springs pool, which opens out to a view of the Heathcote ranges.

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Utility Meets Luxury In These Tiny Tasmanian Shacks

Inspired by the practical minimalism of Tasmanian shack heritage, the Denison Rivulet project by Taylor + Hinds architects on the East Coast of Tasmania is about ‘more than capturing a view.’

These assemblage of three cabins plays with the idea of minimal luxury. Designed to capture a sense of cosy intimacy, this accommodation offers the ultimate Tasmanian ‘shack’ experience.

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A Photographer’s Designer Hideaway In Hobart

Slow Beam is a hidden gem in Hobart, representing a star line-up of Melbourne creatives! Photographer Lauren Bamford worked with Sarah Trotter of Hearth Studio, and architect Murray Barker to create this dramatic jewel in the West Hobart bush. The carpet by artist Esther Stewart is WILD, but every possible element of this accommodation is designed by one of Australia’s best!

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A Magically Restorative Waterfront Getaway in Tasmania 

Captains Rest in Strahan, on the west coast of Tasmania, is a much-in-demand Airbnb escape perched right on the waterfront. Owner Sarah Andrews transformed a run-down shack into a booked-out retreat! If you are eager to stay at Captains Rest, act smart, as it books out months in advance. A blissful Tassie bolt hole.

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A Floating Eco Villa Off Palm Beach

Floating just metres from the shore of Sydney’s Palm Beach, this solar powered floating villa is known as ‘the Lilypad’! Designer and creator Chuck Anderson has applied his own metal fabrication expertise in creating this solar powered escape. Lilypad is a members only affair, so click through to find out how to become part of the floating gang.

Revisit the original post here.

A Lovingly Restored Mid-Century Marvel In Mount Martha

If you fall in love with this mid-century gem (and warning, you will!) then act quickly – this propertly is only occasionally listed in Airbnb, because it is so beloved by its owners! Designed by iconic architect Karl Fender (now one half of Fender Katsalidis) this ‘Fender Weekender’ is filled with lush green carpet, stunning wood panelling and features a gentle curving pool.

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An Old Dairy Farm, Transformed Into One Of Victoria’s Coolest Boutique Accomodations 

Few design projects are created with the same love as The Dairy at Ross Farm. Located in the small town of Meeniyan in Victoria’s South Gippsland (about two hours’ drive south-east from Melbourne), this boutique accommodation is owned, and has been meticulously designed and built by father-daughter team Lindsay and Andrea Moore.

No detail is overlooked in ‘The Dairy’, with a distinctly rustic, yet contemporary handcrafted vibe we cannot get enough of!

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A Swedish Summer Cottage In South Australia

Inspired by Swedish summer houses, sisters Emma Read and Sarah Hall purchased this white weatherboard delight in Marion Bay, South Australia. Their renovations for ‘My Sister & The Sea‘ are equal parts rustic and romantic, with a sense of vintage charm in every corner!

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Is This Private Island Tasmania’s Best Kept Secret?

An island, off an island, off an island… welcome to the elusive Satellite Island, off Bruny Island, off the mainland of Tasmania!

This small island houses two small properties, the Summer House and the Boathouse – and nothing else! Scroll through Kara Rosenlund‘s incredible pictures for a southern island paradise.

Revisit the original story here.

The Modern Australian Country Home

The owners of this Yarra Valley home lived here for seven years before decided to extend the property for their growing family – enter interior designer Chelsea Hing!

Chelsea and her team maximised space by reconfiguring the floorplan, and updated the home to reflect a more contemporary aesthetic. An interior palette of rich terracotta, saddle tan leathers, polished plaster, slate, cedar and sandblasted timber was implemented, echoing the rich colours of the landscape outside.

Revisit the original story here

An Interior Designer’s Charming Art Deco Apartment In North Bondi

In June we visited the North Bondi home of Juliette Arent Squadrito, co-founder of Sydney-based interior design firm Arent and Pyke, in partnership with Fisher & Paykel.

This property (which was previously a backpackers hostel!) was purchased by the designer and her husband when pregnant with twins, and they undertook the first round of renovations when the babies were only one week old! In 2017 they had their second go at it, installing the rich jewel green cabinetry that now characterises space.

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A Contemporary Country Home, Set Into The Hillside

Located on private grounds within a picturesque regional golf club, the Thornton Residence features a muted colour palette inspired by early 20th-century Australian artist Hans Heysen.

The home is the work of Mardi Doherty of Doherty Design Studio in collaboration with Detail 9 Architects.

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Flack Studio Flair In Fitzroy!

Flack Studio are known for thinking outside the box, and this certainly applies to their bold renovation of this Fitzroy worker’s cottage.

Every room in this eclectic space has its own personality and distinct features, ranging from luxe stone finishes, to brass details, and a deliberately clashing colour palette.  (Also, what about that art collection!). Among key design influences are the client’s love of entertaining, as well as nearby wine bar, Marion.

Revisit the original story here

Melbourne’s Newest Deli And Eatery Brings The WOW-Factor!

We don’t publish many hospitality projects on The Design Files, so when we do, you know they’re special!

Via Porta is a beautifully designed cafe and deli located on an otherwise unremarkable suburban shopping strip in Melbourne’s Mont Albert.

The space was designed by Sarah Cosentino of Studio Esteta, who also co-owns the eatery with her three brothers. Among standout details is the crazy paving flooring made from stone offcuts – a reference to Italy’s iconic cobblestone laneways.

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Tamsin Johnson’s Tamarama Wonder!

It comes as no surprise that interior designer Tamsin Johnson and her husband Patrick Johnson (designer and tailor of P. Johnson fame) have an exceptionally beautifully home!

The couple completely renovated this 1970s home in Tamarama to suit their young family. We love how Tamsin has combined classic design pieces with eclectic details (not to mention a seriously covetable art collection!), to build a richly layered family home, full of unexpected details.

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A Suitably Fashionable Home, From Two Brilliant Creatives

This Armadale residence is home to Penelope Cohen, creative director of Australian fashion label Skin and Threads.

Penny engaged designer Simone Haag to rework the living room and ‘ensure this grand old dame of a Victorian had a contemporary and feminine sensibility, with a fashionable edge.’

Simone describes the updated room as showcasing ‘romance and frivolity,’ having introduced plush plum, navy and mustard hues, along with gold marble with terrazzo.

Revisit the original story here

At Home With Stylist Simone Haag

Speaking of Simone Haag… the celebrated styled-turned-designer featured on our site a few times this past year!  We’ve featured Simone’s styling work numerous times over the past few years, but couldn’t resist revisiting her own Ringwood family house after a recent renovation.

Kennedy Nolan were engaged to extend the home, allowing more space for Simone to flex her styling muscles, and room for her three children to grow.

The interiors combine Scandinavian and mid-century influences alongside the very modern addition of a Samsung Serif television, which appears as a design piece in itself!

Revisit the original story here

A ’60s Cronulla Home Gets A Colour-Rich Makeover!

This awe-inspiring home designed by Lymesmith and Amber Road is unlike any interior project we’ve featured before!

With its boldly punctuated colour palette, abstract wall murals, and black interior crazy paving, it’s a home that’s clearly personalised to the taste and lifestyle of its owners.

As Sonia van de Haar, creative director of Lymesmith explains, ‘Nothing was seen as too precious or too serious, and nobody cared about ‘resale values’. The driving concept was to make a house that reflected the client’s commitment to living life their own way and enjoying it NOW!’

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Ladies of Leisure Up The Ante With Their Impressive New HQ

The Ladies of Leisure space has a special place in our hearts as its co-founded by our very own managing editor, Sally Tabart!

Sally and Savannah Anand-Sobti created this space as a physical extension of their indie publication Ladies of Leisure, or ‘LOL’ for short.

The duo’s friend, stylist and secondhand furniture seller, Pip Newell of Curated Spaces, designed this colour-rich space on a surprisingly slim budget, with furniture and branding from a team of generous creatives.

LOL host regular workshops and discussions in the space aimed at women and girls, to support personal and professional development.

Revisit the original story here

A  Concrete Blanketed Sanctuary In Melbourne’s East

It’s no surprise this Hawthorn House by Melbourne architecture firm Edition Office has been featured in countless architecture awards since its completion.

Drawing inspiration from monolithic masonry buildings and the work of Pezo Von Ellrichshausen and Juliaan Lampens’ brutalist Vandenhaute Kiebooms House, the architects responded with a deceptively simple and singular solution. The resulting home combines a striking pair of large, heavily textured concrete shrouds, with a lush outdoor terrace and garden.

Revisit the original story here

A Home Of Pink Terrazzo And Endless Archways!

This Adelaide home designed by Sans-Arc Studio is a breath of fresh/colourful/brilliant/fun air! (And it nearly broke our Instagram account back when we first featured this home in April!).

The project synthesises diverse inspirations, from the owners’ passion for all things art deco, to their colourful collections of Italian and Czech glassware and German pottery.

Located in an austere suburb with mostly cream and brown brick homes, this property forms its own identity through the use of plaster and arches, playing off the large trees and greenery in the backyard.

Revisit the original story here

A House That Channels Modern Mediterranean, In Byron Bay

With its textured white exterior, striking archways, tiled roof and deceptively modest front facade, this home wouldn’t look out of place in the Mediterranean.

But would you believe that this now dreamy family home by Those Architects was actually once a nondescript 1980s brown brick house, with cheap tiled flooring and generic aluminium windows?

The design intent was to ‘reinvent’ the 1980s, with the aesthetic of a ‘subtropical suburban bungalow morphed with a modernist sensibility.’ Mission accomplished!

Revisit the original story here

A Forever Home That Celebrates The Past

This project in Rose Bay sensitively and playfully brings a new identity to an existing California bungalow.

Architect Ricci Bloch designed the renovation, reconfiguring the internal planning to transform the front of the home into a zone for sleeping and working, and the rear for entertaining. An open but distinct kitchen was designed, and a greater connection to lush garden facilitated.

The material palette takes inspiration from a Palm Springs modernist aesthetic, while highlighting the pre-existing extended horizontal lines of the original home. 

Revisit the original story here

An Amazing Mid-Century Home Gets A High-Tech Makeover!

Without disrupting the original façade, 8 Squared have doubled the size of this mid-century home, originally designed by architect Glynn Nicholls (son of Eric Nicholls – Walter Burley Griffin’s Australian business partner) in 1959. The property faces secluded bushland on Sydney’s Middle Cove, providing magical water views of Sugarloaf Bay, framed by parted gum trees.

The interior design by Studio Gorman is just as impressive, combining ‘50s elements alongside the latest technology to take this home into the 21st century and beyond.

Revisit the original story here

A Whole World, All Under One Roof

The Longhouse in Daylesford by Partners Hill would have to be one of the most unique homes ever featured on The Design Files!

This 110-metre-long shed contains internalised agricultural, hospitality and residential functions under the one (incredibly long) roof.  It’s a place for living, learning and entertaining, as well as nurturing animals and fresh produce, with its own microclimate. 

Revisit the original story here

From Bush Shack To Bruny Island Stunner!

Once an understated shack, this property in Tasmania’s remote Bruny Island is now a four-bedroom home by Dock 4 Architects where the landscape takes centre stage.

The A-line structure continues the original form of the shack to gently mimic a tent form. Strong internal lines create framing devices, capturing different views looking back to ‘mainland’ Tasmania and the silhouette of kunanyi/Mt Wellington.

Revisit the original story here

A Total Transformation For This Pocket-Sized Heritage Home!

This converted home in Melbourne’s Kingsville is by one of our favourite up-and-coming architecture practices, Olaver Architecture.

The heritage residence has been converted into a generous, outward-looking family house that defies its compact site. The final design is characterised by countless clever design solutions making the contained block feel spacious.

Revisit the original story here

A Subiaco Home With A Green Heart

You might remember this Perth home as the winner of the residential architecture category at inaugural TDF Design Awards!

Vokes and Peters have created a home that blends indoors and out, offering both privacy for the residents and connection to the surrounding community. The home is subtly radical in its creation of an innovative form, while remaining respectful to the neighbourhood aesthetic.

Revisit the original story here

Enhancing The Past In Studley Park

This mid-century home in Melbourne’s Studley Park was originally designed by influential Russian-born Australian architect Anatol Kagan, who was committed to designing buildings that had a positive impact on society.

The 1950s family home has recently received a sympathetic, contemporary renovation from Kennedy Nolan, who refreshed the architectural beauty of the property, while re-zoning the layout to reflect a contemporary mode of living.

Revisit the original story here

Clare Bowditch On Overcoming Self-Doubt + Being Your Own Kind Of Girl

What do you find works best for you in overcoming your self-doubt? I know you named your anxiety ‘Frank’, which is great.

‘Frank’ is an umbrella title for a feeling of foreboding. I came up with it during the very early recovery stage of my breakdown, when I didn’t really know how to separate my emotions. Now I know it was just anxiety that needed training. Reading Jack Kornfield helped a lot, as did a really practical little book by Dr Claire Weekes called Peace from Nervous Suffering. She was a stalwart of the Australian post-war veteran field. She helped people deal with anxiety before it really had a name. Slowly, slowly I was able to work past it, but it took until I was 27 to have the guts to put my own songs in the world. I’d been building that courage from age 21. I still have self-doubt, but these days it can motivate me. It tells me I’m onto something. My songs have always sat in me like pets. I can’t rush them. They come when they’re ready and my job is to make room for them. So I just keep showing up with my pen and paper.

Revisit our original interview with Clare Bowditch here!

Author + Comedian Catherine Deveny On Raising A Trio Of Boys

You’ve written on what you term ‘the narcissism of motherhood… the competition and judging each other from labour to Year 12 results to grandchildren.’ It’s so true, but why? I imagine you have an excellent approach for dealing with this or calling it out?  

Sometimes I say, ‘That’s amazing about your high achieving, good looking, well-balanced kids – congrats! My kids play computer games, watch porn and make bongs.’ I won’t enable their competition parenting. When they ask, ‘What school do your kids go to?’ I respond, ‘What difference does it make?’ and flat out refuse to answer until they give me a rational answer. They never do.

Revisit our no-holds-barred interview with Catherine Deveny here!

Artist Julian Meagher On Creating Through The Parenting Fog

Has fatherhood influenced the way you paint?

One of the biggest challenges in painting, or any creative outlet I would imagine, is to not overcook it. Fatherhood has forced me to let the work live and breathe on its own. I am painting with a lot more freedom. When I start a work I feel like I am actually now taking a run-up before I jump off the cliff. Fatherhood has forced me to accept that I’m not in control of anything at all, and nothing is really about me, so I feel more comfortable taking risks. I’m making a lot more failed paintings than I used to, but I’m making a lot more really successful ones too, I think.

Revisit the original story here.

The Co-Founder of Olli Ella Talks Business + Babies

What have you learned about yourself across your parenting journey? What do you need to be the most effective parent you can be?

To keep a sense of humour and to not try to be perfect, because it’s impossible. You will make yourself miserable in the process. I’ve learned to really sit with the chaos and the mayhem, to not wish away a second of it because it goes by too quickly.

Revisit the original story here.

Meet AFLW Forward And Mum Of Two Sophie Abbatangelo

It’s been said that sport has the power to effect cultural change and advance gender equity. What does it mean to you, and your daughter Meika, to be a part of this?

I grew up watching men in my family play football, from my Dad and brother to my uncles and cousins. Even though I preferred to kick with the boys, I was still supported when I wanted to play competition.

I have always been passionate about equal rights and recognition, not just for athletes but for women in general. If Meika grows up to love sport as much as I do, I feel confident that she’ll be encouraged and accepted within any sport she chooses to play. And if she does aspire to play football, it excites me to think how amazing she could be with the talent and growth that is coming through now. I just hope she uses her strength and ferocity in competitive sport rather than on Hendrix and me!

As for following in my footsteps, I hope she feels empowered to challenge herself with things she might find difficult and if she does choose a sporting pathway, listens to her coaches and finds herself a great group of friends.

Revisit the original story here.

Que Minh Luu Talks Parenting Through Producing, Class Systems + Grief

What’s your experience with self-doubt? Any advice on how to not let it stop you doing ‘The Thing’?

I think age really helps. I’m in a job now that gives me some level of agency to make some kind of change, but for years I was highly anxious and full of self-doubt. I had a really great partner and he was my cheer squad, critic and fellow brainstormer. All through my 20s, I just couldn’t visualise where I wanted to be and how I was going to do it. He helped me to be strategic, rather than just focussing on whatever problem was in front of my nose. I spent a lot of time being afraid of looking like an idiot and now I’m okay with being an idiot.

Revisit original story here.

Alison Bell On The Joys And Humiliations Of Working Mum Life

How do you work through the guilt that comes with being away from home?

I am no role model there. It’s really, really tough. One consolation, and this is going to sound overly earnest and ridiculous, is that I believe in the work that I’m doing. I know not everyone has that luxury. I’m in a very privileged position where I get to practice my craft and make something I believe in. It does help to acknowledge that fact and recognise this great opportunity I’ve got. I can’t pretend that the feedback doesn’t help. That probably sounds ego-driven, but I don’t want to make work that doesn’t speak to people. I don’t want to put all of my creative/work energy into something that no one connects with.

Revisit original story here.

VICE Australia’s Creative Director Royce Akers On Dad Guilt + Life In The Suburbs

What’s your experience with Dad guilt? Is it a thing?

I feel guilty about constantly talking about them. I feel guilty when I’m not with them. When I get mad at them I feel guilty afterward. So without googling Dad Guilt, I’m pretty sure I get it from time to time. I’ve had other Dads tell me they feel guilty watching Bluey. The Dad on that show has become a low-key role model, which is hilarious and awesome.

Revisit the original story here.

Stripping-Down The Family-Business Juggle With Pop + Scott

Moving across time, how might you like the girls to remember you to their own families – what do you think your parental legacy will be?

I’d love for them to remember us as a team! That their Mama and Papa were equals, and that their roles in caring for them and the family home were shared.

Revisit the original story here.

A New Way To Experience The Garden Of St Erth

The Garden of St Erth was initially cultivated by The Diggers Club in 1996, and is located in Blackwood, Victoria. This green oasis offers glamping stays, so roll out of Melbourne CBD and slide into this patch of absolute paradise!

Revisit the original story here.

A Spectacular Riverside Garden In Melbourne

Perched on the edge of the Yarra in Toorak, Sarah Laidlaw’s garden has been transformed from a steep and awkward site, to a magical family garden inspired by Guilfoyle’s Volcano garden at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne! Eckersley Garden Architecture have created a ‘free and easy’ garden that is both eclectic and tranquil.

Revisit this spectacular Melbourne garden here !

A Plant Collector’s Wild And Wonderful Paradise

Lyle and Cheryl Filippe love weird, wonderful and collectible plants, which they share with customers at the incredible Roraima Nursery in Lara. From the tropics to the desert, this collector has plants from all corners of the globe. Our gardens columnist Georgina Reid describes ‘it is wild, wonderful and slightly mad’ – just the way we like it!

Revisit this magical garden here!

An Exceptional Heritage Garden in Sydney 

This property has an incredible history, established in the mid-1800s. We take a tour through this expansive site with custodian Anna van der Gardner, whose enthusiasm for this site sings off the screen! Take a tour through time at the Bronte House and gardens.

Revisit this glorious garden here!

A Robust Rooftop Garden In Rozelle

You might think downsizing from a one-acre property to an apartment in Rozelle would mean saying goodbye to a beautiful garden… but for Klaus and Anne Schindhelm it was an opportunity to explore what an urban garden could be!

Revisit this amazing rooftop garden here!

A Factory Rooftop Turned Lush Penthouse Garden

Who said inner city living was all about concrete!? This rooftop garden created by William Dangar of Dangar Barin Smith is the city oasis of SJB director Adam Haddow. A seriously perfect rooftop in Redfern!

Revisit original story here.

 Suburban Backyard Turned Thriving Permaculture Garden

After purchasing this Geelong property ten years ago, permaculture expert Ben Shaw shares his flourishing, edible paradise. Ben’s garden may only be suburban size, but he uses the space to full effect, and shares his experiences through workshops to highlight how growing food can be accessible to all. A delicious and beautiful garden!

Revisit this inspiring productive garden here!

Will Studd’s Sub-Tropical Wonderland in Byron Bay

Will Studd is both a brilliant cheese maker (SO DELICIOUS) and passionate gardner. His lush sub-tropical wonderland in  Byron Bay features over 180 species of palm trees, and a sprawling vegetable garden. Talk about life goals!

Revisit Will’s incredible tropical garden here!

Like so many of you, as the bushfire crisis has escalated across Australia, I’ve spent the past few days in disbelief, and feeling pretty helpless.

I’ve been refreshing my trusted news sources (The Guardian Australia homepage, mainly) every few minutes, and scanning Instagram for updates of what’s going on. (Some of the best first hand accounts are from photojournalists on the ground, including Andrew Quilty, Matthew Abbott and and Nick Moir – their work documenting these fires is so risky and it’s so important.)

I won’t repeat the death toll, the horrifying facts and figures. You don’t need me to tell you that this situation is absolutely unprecedented.

Right now we’re all scared, and many of us are angry. Why don’t our firefighters have funds for more water bombing aircraft, more vehicles and equipment? Why is our regional firefighting so heavily dependent on unpaid volunteers? Why is our government spending time and money on paid advertising during this crisis, when we desperately need them to lead?

Still, some great leadership has emerged. Can we talk about Celeste Barber for a minute? The woman has raised more than $20 MILLION Australian dollars for bushfire relief in 3 days via her social media. What an absolute LEGEND. This response shows just how powerful we are as individuals, when we are united. And that’s incredibly inspiring.

It’s easy to feel small and powerless, but it’s up to each and every one of us to take action – and to channel our fear, frustration and anger into real outcomes.

SO, here’s what we’re doing.

1. Fundraising

The Design Files has donated $1,000 to the CFA (Country Fire Authority Victoria) and a further $1,000 to the Red Cross Australia Disaster Relief Fund.

Tomorrow, we will be launching Art Fights Fire 2020 – an online Art Auction with some SERIOUSLY big name artists who’ve each generously donated an artwork (Ken Done, Laura Jones, Guy Maestri, Reko Rennie, Kirra Jamison, Rachel Castle, Elizabeth Barnett, Stephen Baker, Kiata Mason, Sally Anderson, Brooke Holm and so many more!).

I know many of you will have made donations to the relief efforts this week, and I know it’s not the time to really think about buying art… but please consider digging deep and supporting our auction when it goes live tomorrow, we’re aiming to raise $50,000 – please help us get there!

2. Using our platform to support urgent action on climate change

How will we be doing this? Well, first up, we’ve written a letter to our local member of parliament. Letter writing is so important – every letter is recorded, and each elected MP is obliged to take their electorate’s concerns to parliament.

See here for more info and a guide to  contacting your MP.

This video on is also very informative, and there is a handy letter template you can download here.

We will continue to use our website and our social media channels to support bushfire relief and climate action over the coming weeks and months.

We’ll also be the at the ‘Fund the Firies / Climate Action‘ rally this Friday January 10th, 6pm in Melbourne – JOIN US. There are protests this week in all Australian capital cities. Please google and find yours!

3. Watch this space

We have plans. Plans to leverage our influence and our audience (that’s you guys!) to enact big and long lasting change, and measurably reduce Australia’s carbon emissions – this year. When these catastrophic fires finally subside, and the media and our leaders turn their attention to recovery and rebuilding, our project will be ready to go. Stay with us.

There is so much to be done, and so much we can do.

Now is the time for action.

Like all of you, we’ve been left feeling pretty helpless by the bushfires devastating our country right now. But there is one antidote to the feelings of helplessness, of anxiety and fear.

Taking action.

It’s our duty to do what we can, as businesses and as individuals… and for us, hosting an Art Auction seemed like the obvious choice.

Since returning to work just yesterday, our team here in Melbourne have worked around the clock to bring this auction together – and it’s one seriously epic line-up!

Art Fights Fire is an online auction hosted by The Design Files featuring works generously donated by over 30 seriously incredible Australian artists and creatives, including Ken Done, Yvette Coppersmith, Elizabeth Barnett, Laura Jones, Rachel Castle, Kirra Jamison + so many more. We’re aiming to raise $50,000 in 7 days!

This is how it works: visit the Art Fights Fire auction website and browse the wonderful works that have been donated by 30+ of Australia’s leading artists and designers. Each piece has a reserve price set at around 50% of its usual selling price (!), and bidding is open from now until 5pm on Monday, January 13th.

When bidding closes, 100% of all funds raised (minus 2.9% credit card fees – grrr) will be split equally across two incredibly worthy causes – Victoria’s Country Fire Association (CFA) and New South Wales’ Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES).

I know that probably every single one of you has already donated to a cause over the past week – but we really hope you’ll dig deep and support this very special fundraiser, and share it widely!

A massive shoutout must go to the amazing artists and designers who are involved in this exhibition. I only started texting people about this on Sunday, and I honestly can’t believe how many people put their hands up straight away to be involved! Thankyou so, so much to everyone in the lineup! (A few artists who missed the cut off will be added over the coming days…!)

ART FIGHTS FIRE ARTISTS AND DESIGNERS

Kirra Jamison
Hannah Nowlan
Emma Lipscombe
Caroline Walls
Stephen Baker
Elizabeth Barnett
Emma Currie
Lucy Roleff
Beci Orpin
Kiata Mason
Laura Jones
Ken Done
Celia Gullet
Fiona O’Byrne
Amber Wallis
Yvette Coppersmith
Jasmine Mansbridge
Julian Meagher
Rowena Martinich
Sean Meilak
Pip Bishop
Clara Adolphs
Rachel Castle
Katie Daniels
Jan Vogelpoel
James Gordon
Sean Fennessy
Brooke Holm
Caitlin Mills
Lisa Sorgini
Cenzo

Browse the Art Fights Fire auction website this week, if you’re able to, please bid, and share!

Also, there are SO MANY wonderful local artists auctioning their work this week for bushfire relief… please check out #ozfireartauction for more.

All funds raised from Art Fights Fire will be donated to Victoria’s Country Fire Association (CFA) and New South Wales’ Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES). 

Going through Imogen Milford’s pocket-sized apartment is a bit like a game of spot the local artist. A Lizzie Barnett here, a Tantri Mustika there… every available wall and shelf of the Fitzroy home features an array of homegrown creative talent! ‘I think it’s fair to say that I am obsessed with local artists’, Imogen admits.

In 2016 Imogen, her husband Mark Henry, who works in construction, their three-year-old son Finn and 12-year-old dog Wilson moved into this off-the-plan apartment. Initially, it was the central location that attracted the family, being close to the city and great parks, but after a couple of years they realised the space needed updating to better reflect their lifestyle and personality. ‘In 2018, we gutted the main areas of the apartment as the design and finishes were just not what we were after. We just wanted the place to have a soul,’ says Imogen. As Mark works in construction, he was able to undertake all these works himself, with interiors and styling decisions from Imogen. Melbourne greenery experts Plant Mama and The Plant Society were enlisted to inject greenery into every nook and cranny, making the apartment feel like a lush sanctuary. Dream team!

Renovations saw the installation of reclaimed timber hardwood floors from Urban Salvage, and form ply cabinetry, inviting a more tactile feel to the home. ‘We also flipped the floor plan to make  better use of the space,’ says Imogen. The result is a totally customised apartment, with real personality!

Imogen calls herself a maximalist with a fondness for local artists whose works naturally evoke personality. ‘My husband has said, “I don’t think you can buy any more artwork!”, as every wall is covered, yet I always manage to find some space!’ says Imogen. Her flair for interior design and styling is evident in this cheerful, layered space, filled with plants and pots from The Plant Society. An (unintentional) pink and orange palette has emerged in her furniture, object and artwork selections, anchored by one of Imogen’s most cherished pieces – her beloved burnt orange Soriano sofa. ‘They are so good for small spaces’, Imogen says.

The majority of works in this apartment are now complete, except for two bathrooms the family hope to tackle early this year. Already, Imogen says the space seems so much more like home. ‘It feels like ours now.’

‘Ethical’ has become a bit of a buzzword in recent years, and it can be difficult to understand exactly what it means. Supply chains are often hard to untangle, and there’s not always complete transparency about where materials are sourced.

Erin Malloy and Michael Tink are the creative couple behind Wild To Ware (W.T.W) – a true ethical jewellery label creating bespoke pieces created using raw materials painstakingly sourced from the natural world. Erin and Michael can tell you exactly where every part of their jewellery comes from, down to the very riverbed a gemstone was sourced, because they find them all with their own two hands.

Michael, who has been running his own jewellery label for the past 8 years, discovered a love for gold and prospecting in the Victorian Goldfields. When he and Erin met, the pair began fossicking for gemstones together – which is how the idea for their ethical jewellery label, Wild To Ware, was born. Discovering a gap in the market for sustainably, locally sourced gold and gemstones, the pair has embarked upon a true analogue process for developing their one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces. Drawing on Michael’s previous experience in the goldfields, the pair travel to areas known as gemstone deposits on spare weekends to source their raw materials.

Erin explains more about the methodical process of gemstone fossicking on the couple’s field trips: ‘After finding a spot that contains sapphires we get down to the river and “suit up”. We then begin looking for suitable bends in the rivers or old deposits – these are where the stones are built up over time’, Erin says. ‘From there we shovel from the riverbed into two sets of sieves – stacked on top of each other – shaking these from side to side. All of the smaller stones drop out and the heavies sink to the bottom. After a bit more shaking, the sieve is flipped over to reveal the sapphires and other gemstones at the top.’

So how do Erin and Michael figure out where to even look for these hidden gemstones? There are no gadgets or ‘Where To Find Precious Stones’ apps involved in this old-school process – it’s more like ‘X marks the spot’! ‘We collect a lot of old maps and books with hints and locations where gemstone deposits may still exist’, explains Erin.

For Erin and Michael, Wild To Ware is about so much more than creating a beautiful piece of jewellery. This painstaking process is one that requires much patience, and not every trip yields fruitful results. In fact, most of the time they either don’t find anything, or the quality of the stones they do find are not up to scratch. ‘For every 10 stones we find, maybe one is good. But we believe that’s what also makes these pieces and stones so beautiful – the scarcity’, explains Erin. A true treasure hunt!

Look out for the official launch of Wild To Ware in March. For now, you can keep up with Erin and Jessica on Instagram!