Est Magazine #10

ISSUE #10 2013

Style HUNTER N E gat h er toget h er FORAGING FOR THe INNER CREATIVE

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Visit our showroom to view our latest collections, including the Via Veneto Vetro range

by Falper. The integrated Visit our showroom to view cabinet & washbasin collection our latest collections, including combines a unique soft-touch the Via Veneto Vetro range satin glass bench top to the

by Falper. The integrated existing timber cabinetry, Visit our showroom to view cabinet & washbasin collection reinventing timeless our latesta collections; combines unique soft-touch sophistication. satin glass bench to the Catalano Star, atop washbasin existing timber cabinetry, presenting ‘an aesthetic of reinventing timeless lightness’, Fantini Fukasawa, an sophistication.

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iconic flawless tapware design and the restrained beauty of Miro LED wall mirrors. rogerseller.com.au

est ISSUE #10 2013

Contents | Regulars

07 Editor’s Letter

26 Shop Ed’s Picks

28 SHOP FASHION

Issue #10 2013

Rose Coloured Glasses

LA woman

30 Closet Covet Invested in fashion | Prue Brown

38 Real or Replica The AJ Table Lamp

44 ATELIER Lisa Madigan | Highland Dream

108 Food Cucine Cuisine

116 TRAVEL Los Angeles

128 BLOG LOVE Show, Style & Arrc

est ISSUE #10 2013

Contents | Features 10 Forage TREND REPORT Go back to your roots, reclaim your inner hunter and gatherer and get into nature to inspire your spaces. Wood, clay, paper and string can deconstruct a space and ground it with nature.

56 Poetry In Motion NETHERLANDS Paula Leen is a new face in the art and interior design industry.

Using mainly felt, she creates unique and individual pillows, throws, rugs, lamps, vases and other accessories for the home.

76 Country Cool Daylesford, AUSTRALIA Situated on the outskirts of Daylesford, in Victoria’s spa region, Plonk beckons you to lounge by the fire, swing in the old oak tree and loll in the oversized bath‌with a bottle of plonk.

92 From little things big things grow Sydney, AUSTRALIA Liz Leuchars had no formal design training. Her background in marketing and advertising led to various design projects. It was always the product itself that really excited her.

est REGULAR EDITORS LETTER

Editor’s Letter Its been a busy time here at Est with lots of changes underway and new team members joining the fold. Our recent reader survey shows that our readers are exactly who we thought you are and the very people we design the content in Est Magazine for. Established, discerning and sophisticated, you, our valued reader are what makes Est uniquely Est. Fresh, contemporary, time poor, and trend aware rather than a trend slave, you are ahead of the pack in recognising Australia’s best kept design secret, Est Magazine.

In this issue we take a tour inside the country retreat of Penny and Ben Collins in the spa town of Daylesford. A blend of vintage pieces with Danish design, and some photogenic children to boot, Plonk is the idyllic rural retreat for a winters weekend, and is open to anyone looking for a country getaway. We are also thrilled to share with you the home of Liz Leuchars, one of our dear friends, and my old partner in styling crime, from homewares and fashion emporium, Pond. Unwavering in commitment to a muted palette and subtle adornment whether it be homewares or fashion, Liz’s home is an exact reflection of the way she dresses. Understated and elegant.

This months trend report looks to the great outdoors for style inspiration, while an artists residence in the fields of Holland leaves us spellbound by the beauty of organic shapes and tactile fabrics.

In the upcoming months, we will be revealing exciting new collaborations with friends from overseas and closer to home. With new content coming in daily and weekly mini mags hitting inboxes every Friday, we along with our new contributors and new style editors, will be working hard to bring you the best homes from around the world, along with the best products and designs that furnish them.

We are casting our net far and wide for like minded souls to join us in spreading the word of good design. We’d love to hear from you if you have something to share.

And in the spirit of sharing, this month we have a fantastic giveaway from Bedouin Societe. We have done the research for you and found the most stunning Hamman bathroom towels that we promise you will fall in love with as much as we have. Share the secret of Est by inviting a friend to sign up to the Est Mini mag and enter into the draw to win a set of 2 bath towels and 2 hand towels - you’ll be glad you did.

Sian MacPherson Editor in Chief

est GLOBAL LIVING WITH AN AUSTRALIAN TWIST

Editor in Chief Sian MacPherson sian@estmagazine.com.au

Creative Director Lynda Evans lynda@estmagazine.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR JACQUELINE BRISTOW jacqueline@estmagazine.com.au

IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY Hotze Eisma / Taverne Agency | PRODUCTION Rianne Landstra

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL FASHION Khaseem Warren. FOOD Marnie Engelander.

PHOTOGRAPHY Art Gray, Eduart Duarte, Armelle Habib, Tara Pearce, Brooke Holme, Rick Carter, Hotze Eisma. PRODUCTION Rianne Landstra. STYLING Stephanie Stamatis. SUB EDITORS Emily Wright. Margot Sharpe. WORDS Chauntelle Roelandts, Karina Calvert-Jones.

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Hotze Eisma / Taverne Agency PRODUCTION Rianne Landstra

ENQUIRIES

Editorial editorial@estmagazine.com.au Production production@estmagazine.com.au Advertising advertising@estmagazine.com.au

CONNECT

est REGULAR TREND REPORT

for·age The act of looking or searching for food or provisions. v. for·aged, for·ag·ing, for·ag·es

Go back to your roots, reclaim your inner hunter and gatherer and get into nature to inspire your spaces. Wood, clay, paper and string can deconstruct a space and ground it with nature. Create the perfect balance of calm and creative stimulation by foraging both the forest floor and the Sunday markets for unique little finds that will centre both you and your space.

PHOTOGRAPHY Tara Pearce | STYLING Stephanie Stamatis

copy goes here

est REGULAR SHOP

Oliver Schick Pendant | Gubi Form Bowl Set Small | Tom Dixon

Rose C oloured GLASSES

Edited by Sian MacPherson

Worn saddle leather conveys hard work and character, and Nick Leary’s photography would look stunning in even the most contemporary of spaces. Touches of rose and a dash of copper can inject a soft subtle colour and instant low key glam to any scheme, while there is no understating bright pink running shoes that will hopefully spur on some sort of fitness regime before spring.

Pink Nerd Chair | Muuto

Leather Dog Bed | Mundo and Maud

Stirrup Photo Print | Nick Leary

Charcoal Tote | Margarete Haeusle Joe Pure Linen Sofa | MCM House

Lumi Side Table | Articolo

Flyknit Lunar 1 | Nike

LA

woman Panama Hat | J Crew

Salt Water Grey Belt | J Crew

Light Knit Top | Fillipa K

Lila Denimn Short | Rag n Bone

California Sneakers | Gucci

EDITED BY Khaseem Warren

Sunshine and movie stars may be some of the first images that come to mind when thinking Los Angeles, but LA has a covetable style that we think needs a spotlight all of its very own. Beach-ingenue meets city street. Hey, you may not have a million dollar movie deal - or a stack of scripts by your bed side - but you can always make-believe in the city of dreams. That is what makes an actress after all!

Hollywood Sign Photo Print | Myan Soffia

est REGULAR SHOP

Trapeze in Felt Pearl Grey | CĂŠline Cannes Chain Trimmed Mirror Snadals | Aquazzura

Light Knit Top | Fillipa K

Shearling Gilet | Karl Donoghue

Broderie Dress | Country Road

Infine Horse Pants | Paul & Joe

est REGULAR CLOSET COVET

Invested

in fashion Easily one of the most stylish people we know, Prue Brown is the master of understated glam.

PHOTOGRAPHY Armelle Habib STYLING Sian MacPherson As Co-Founder and Director of lingerie and sleepwear label, Love & Lustre, Prue Brown works hard alongside her partner Dana Burrows to ensure the very foundations of a great silhouette in fashion are achieved by designing quality, comfortable and flattering underwear.

With frequent buying trips overseas in the name of research and development, Prue’s love for fashion is well nurtured. Choosing investment pieces and quality over quantity, Prue’s enviable wardrobe packed with finely cut jackets, silk

dresses, killer heels and much loved and well worn jeans and leather boots that see her through busy days at the office, school canteen duty and latest season collection showings with major department stores - all on the same day!

My favourite piece of artwork in my house is by Veronica Kent – a sleeping child is my idea of peace and calm – I look at this piece everyday and it centres me. I think I especially love it because the little girl in the photo reminds me of my daughter.

I bought this silk Lanvin shirt with my business partner Dana on a buying trip. I seem to get lots of extra encouragement to buy expensive pieces with her, which is not the case when I am with my husband!

I am a real “jeans” girl – in fact they are my go-to staple for everyday dressing. I throw on a jacket over a t-shirt to head to the office, or a scarf and jumper to pick up the kids. The necklace is from Sass and Bide and was originally a gift to my daughter - who prefers to wear skate shoes and camouflage muscle t’s and not delicate necklaces.

Our painting by Davig Griggs was one of the first pieces of art we purchased. It is very bright and bold and everyone loves it when they first see it, but it always surprises them on closer inspection, once they discover rats, nooses and skulls within the painting!!!

I love boots, in fact most of my shoe collection is made up of boots – they are perfect with jeans in all situations.

OPPOSITE Prue wears Rag & Bone Jacket, Jbrand jeans, Dolce Firme boots, Living Divani sofa from Space Furniture. BELOW Davig Griggs Mixed media on canvas, ACNE Boots, Isabel Marant Heels and a couple of pairs of very old and loved boots.

I am a sucker for Vintage fashion. The problem is I buy things that I never wear – this vintage Missoni dress is one of them!

But I justify it by telling myself it is an investment I have made for my daughter Millie to enjoy - though so far this is proving to be unlikely given her current fashion sense.

Mike Parr is an amazing Australian artist that we adore. We particularly like his work that includes Ned Kelly references (our son is named Ned).

My Givenchy shoes have very high heels. I don’t often wear them. They always make me feel very dressed up.

Love this little Jerome Dreyfuss bag - it makes me carry less!

My husband surprised me with a Vernier black ebony ring on a holiday! After me spying it in a store, he secretly purchased it an gave it to me that night at dinner. It is my most favourite possession.

The Gold Disks have my children’s name on them. I often change them from necklaces to bracelets – whatever I am wearing at the time.

My Cartier watch is another purchase with my business partner – she gets me into trouble!

est REGULAR REAL OR REPLICA

REAL OR REPLICA DESIGNER Arne Jacobsen | BRAND Louis Polsen | WORDS Sian MacPherson

THE AJ Table Lamp “...in fact, there is nothing I mind as long as it looks nice.� Arne Jacobsen

Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1960 for the former SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, now known as the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, the AJ Lamp is one of several Jacobsen designs that have become modern day icons recognised the world over.

Taking inspiration from the shapes of nature, the AJ Table and Floor Lamp forms part of Jacobson’s 3300 Series, along with the Swan and Egg chairs, and was designed to convey his interpretation of an urban garden of sorts.

Functionality in the design is seen in the base of the lamp which was originally designed to hold an ashtray. Of course in these health conscious times the base is left open and effectively enhances the airy impression of the lamp, as well as mirroring the shapes of circles and cylinders that are seen throughout the rest of the 3300 Series. The lamp hood too is a well resolved design aspect, as the asymmetrical head can be angled both upwards and downwards, so as to allow the user to direct the light where most needed. The interior of the shade is painted white to ensure a soft light is emitted. As effective as a task lamp as it is a mood light, the elegant design of the AJ lamp is both practical and simplistically beautiful.

The SAS Building is considered to be one of Jacobsens defining masterpieces. The Hotel has since been redeveloped, however room 606 has been carefully preserved to pay homage to Jacobsen’s original commission and is the ultimate design destination for die hard fans.

Celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the launch of the AJ family of lamps saw five new colours introduced all of which were chosen in line with an updated Arne Jacobsen colour scheme across the entire range of his designs.

OPPOSITE TOP THIS PAGE & OPPOSITE TOP AJ Table and Floor Lamps in the 50th Celebration colours © Louis Poulsen OPPOSITE Portrait of Arne Jacobsen at the SAS Royal Hotel © Phaidon BOTTOM View of the SAS House from Vesterbrogade. The building was divided into a two-storey base with the public areas and a twenty-storey tower with 275 hotel rooms. The tower was designed to reflect the clouds and blend into the sky.

IMAGE Room 606 SAS Royal Hotel © Kim Ahm / Fritz Hansen IMAGE RIGHT & OPPOSITE AJ Table & Floor Lamps © Louis Polsen

How to spot the difference between a real and replica AJ Table Lamp.

REAL SPECIFICATIONS ORIGINAL AJ Table Lamps are manufactured under license in Denmark by Louis Poulsen. There are a total of seven Colours, the originals being black, graphite grey or white and the recently introduced blue/ green, petroleum, red, sand, yellow/green.

Authentic shades are made from spun steel, the base from die cast zinc and the stem from steel. The electrical cable is a plastic cord 2.4m in length. The Table lamp weighs a maximum 2.5kg is 56cm in height with a diameter of 35cm.

REPLICA FLAWS The cast iron base of a replica is often chunkier and less refined than the original’s die cast zinc sloping base. An original stem is not upright. Replicas are often completely upright or on less of an angle than the original design. Replicas often have cheap plastic power switches.

est REGULAR ATELIER

Highland DREAM Lisa Madigan’s artistic life has us in a trance. The Southern Highlands based artist is quite literally living a creative dream with an endless supply of visual inspiration surrounding her little whitewashed studio nestled in the valley. Lisa’s ethereal artworks are as rich in their evocative meaning as they are in their textural conformation. Step inside the mind of Lisa Madigan and we promise you too will be pining to trade spaces.

In 3 words describe your personal style.

Natural, luxurious, generous.

How would you define your art?

Raw and polished. Evocative and tactile. Sensitive and strong. Deliberate and ephemeral. Esoteric and grounded. Absorbing and Still. Moving and moreish. Real. Punchy. Pure. Beautiful.

What are you currently working on?

I recently spent a month in New York and my new collection KALEIDOSCOPE has certainly been spurred from this adventure.

The collection takes it’s heartfelt cues from my experience of the city, from the way the light hits the buildings in a particular way, to the grit and dirt and determination of it all. From it’s rhythm, it’s beauty, it’s graffiti and raw affirming roar, to it’s trinket box world of luxurious wonders and contrast of dark to light. The brilliance of spring time stormy skies and the glisten of showers on a SoHo sidewalk.

These moments that slip from one to another to another, our layers of experience and the notion of savouring something for it to evaporate into the next vision, the next taste, the next sensation.

Where do you live and work right now?

We currently live in a little 1880’s cottage in the heart of Kangaroo Valley, nestled between the Southern Highlands and the New South Wales coastline. There’s something incredibly special about this region, it’s stunning and still manages to take my breath away.

We moved here on a very impulsive whim from Sydney, almost 7 years ago, we completely fell in love with the cottage and just did it! It was originally built for the local newspaper, the original floor boards were in perfect condition and worn quite literally with stories of times gone past, one patch has a lovely smooth contour from where the printing wheel turned.

The cottage was in need of some love and it was the right time for us to pour ourselves into it.

I don’t think I ever really pictured myself living in the country, not for much longer than a year or so, but my husband and I and two dalmatians, Oberon and Mia, have embraced this chapter and I feel lucky to have experienced this beautiful part of the world and watch the seasons change and move with its natural rhythm.

I still love striking the balance between the urban hum, city stimulation, travels and adventure and that beautiful rejuvenating quiet and the invigorating fresh air that being immersed in the country feeds you.

What are you reading?

A few include The New Yorker, Habitus, Collective, a wonderful old book by Kurt Wehlte on paint and materials and traditional method, a book on Quantum, a book on Monet, a book on Mastery, a little Proust, a little Baudelaire, all waiting patiently for me to pick them back up and Est, of course, which I eagerly devour.

What are you listening to?

Neil Young, Eric Satie, Wolf, Miles Davis, Gorecki, Mompou, Dave Brubeck, Reich, The Streets and the one sweet little bird that chirps at our bedroom window every morning.

What are you watching?

The days grow longer and the jonquils in our garden bloom.

What is the book that changed your life?

Honestly, it’s one from my childhood, Did You Ever Pet A Care Bear, I think this would have to be it. It spurred my curiosity and it was one of my all time favourites. Throughout the book, you touch a myriad of different surfaces and compare each through a journey of different scenes. It was like being let in on a big secret of all the wonders of the world, it’s variety and possibility and the wonderful evocative sense

IMAGE © Nadean Richards

A lot of my own notes and writing, as always I also have a pile of books and magazines that are in various states of consumption and plenty of article tabs on my mac.

of touch. At the end, it had a mirror, questioning Who Do You See? and there was a shiny, if not slightly distorted, reflection of yourself, I was a part of this world and it let my imagination run wild. There have been multiple books since of course, but this little gem rocked me to my tiny little core.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Champagne. Fresh flowers. Paint, paint and more paint.

Where do you go to for inspiration?

Goodness, everywhere. The sky, the sea, the landscapes that surround me. Seasonal shifts and the ever changing state of place, of mind, of being and then finding a stillness and a strength in those momentums. The ah moments, the heart lifts, the heart falls, love, loss, luxury.

The little and the large. The tangible and the immeasurable. The great adventures we embark upon without and within. Texture and tooth, grit and determination, what’s real and moving.

A soft, supple gratitude of simply seeing, through clarity of place, of vision, of mind, through the clouds that roll in and show us something new to inform who we are, how we are and how we wish to be and the passing of those clouds, like the intoxicating smell of rain after a storm.

I believe it’s my natural state of being as an artist to feel things a little more keenly, to pay attention to experience and absorb what moves, to have sensitivity to what’s around and within, to observe sharply and to interpret this thing called life and give my reflection of it, so others may perhaps see a reflection within themselves.

It comes from a place within me, but also beyond me and it’s a constant state of being, a way of life and who I am.

What are you coveting right now?

More linen, more paint, more hours in the studio.

Peonies and full, plump, ripe blooming roses.

A weekend in Melbourne with Monet and a fix of my favourite haunts. Sunshine.

est FEATURE NETHERLANDS

Poerty in Motion

‘This house has calming effect on people’, Dutch felt artist Paula Leen calls out from her kitchen, where the sweet scent of homemade herbal tea fills the space. ‘Guests instantly feel the stillness here. And that’s exactly the environment that I need for my art.’

PHOTOGRAPHY Hotze Eisma / Taverne Agency | PRODUCTION Rianne Landstra

Paula Leen is a new face in the art and interior design industry. Using mainly felt, she creates unique and individual pillows, throws, rugs, lamps, vases and other accessories for the home. Describing her style as raw, soft, masculine and fragile, Paula is a firm believer in the law of ‘opposites attract’. Her work has a Nordic soberness and her pieces are effective in warming up a modern interior or updating a traditional house. The colour palette Paula works with is mostly neutral and for the most part only natural materials are used.

‘I am not yet fully eco, but I am getting there. The wool I use comes from sheep farmers in the area, and I get most of the contrasting fabrics from thrift stores or antique markets. I thrive to be 100% organic, then I can call my art perfect.’

Surprisingly Paula has never attended art school or taken a design course, claiming the skill and the vision come naturally to her.

“I love being an autodidact. I am not conflicted by art theory or rules in design. Each piece is so very me.’ Stumbling upon the work of Claudy Jongstra, Paula discovered an instant connection with the artists felt pieces and as a result realised a compulsion to go on and discover her own style with this exciting material she had discovered.

Reclaimed wood and steel and natural colors bring the outside in. Sunlight fills the living room finished in these reclaimed materials while the glass sliding doors lead out onto the balcony that overlooks northern Holland’s farmland.

As she watches the sheep graze in the distance, Paula tries to explain to us the meaning of her art: ‘The English word ‘poetry’ means so much more than words and rhymes on a piece of paper. It means to evoke feelings through art, and that’s exactly what I try to do in my work. I try to reach people, make myself heard and have people understand me through my art.’ A table cloth made from antique French lace, combined with rough dark sheep wool is the very definition of the contrast that Paula is so enamoured by.

‘I like contrasts. Not only in the materials I use, but also in life. Take this house for example. I built my dream home in a tiny little town, but I am so not a village girl.

I love the city, but I need nature and the outdoors for inspiration. If you look at my art, you see neutral colors, but intricate textures, that come from natural sources. It’s calming, but intriguing.’

Paula points out a standing lamp. ‘I found this lamp base at a thrift store. It is a beautiful piece, very Danish retro. I sanded the steel to achieve a worn look and made a lamp shade from rough felt, The felt goes perfectly with the original pulling cord. This is an aspect of my work that excites me; combining materials interestingly.’

The next item she stops at is an over sized felt vase. Another contrast: making a vase out of porous material.

‘I made this for designer Piet Boon’, she gestures proudly. ‘He got in touch with me through one of his stylists. I couldn’t believe it when I got her phone call: “Piet Boon wants to use your work to complement his new collection”.’

Paula’s vases were showcased at the design show in Milan. An achievement that fulfilled one of Paula’s dreams. ‘I was so proud to see my pieces alongside the work of a master such as Piet Boon. That is my crowning achievement.’

In the corner of Paula’s studio lay the beginnings of her latest project.

‘I am working on a large rug, made of raw sheep wool, an old Danish curtain and a piece of soft silk.’

She lingers and touches the textiles, then she walks back upstairs and puts the empty teacups in the sink. ‘Work is calling’, she smiles. And after a wave and a warm goodbye, she disappears into her studio.

est FEATURE AUSTRALIA

The Cool

Country

You may remember the owners of this charming country guesthouse from their dining room featured on a past cover of Est Magazine. Not only did we fall for Penny’s unique style and individual flair when it came to renovating her home, its fair to say we also fell in love with her daughter Claudi just as much. Seeking country solace from their busy lives in the city, Penny and Ben Collins jumped in with both feet as soon as the white house became available. They set about making it a home for both themselves and visitors to the area also in search of a little respite from every day life in some fine accommodation.

PHOTOGRAPHY Tara Pearce | WORDS & STYLING Sian MacPherson

Situated on the outskirts of Daylesford, in Victoria’s spa region, ‘Plonk’ beckons you to lounge by the fire, swing in the old oak tree and loll in the oversized bath…with a bottle of plonk …and all weekend long. Penny shares with us her latest creation and why it’s so special for all those who discover its charms.

What do you love about Daylesford? It’s been a favourite place of Ben and mine for years. We had this idea that if we bought a property, and were able to rent it out while keeping the option to go up and stay there ourselves when we were in need of a break from Melbourne, then that would be perfect. It is such a beautiful little town, with now so many little foodie treasures and markets... it really is fun exploring the area.

The lake is pretty special to walk around and feed the ducks, then there are the Farmers Markets with Istra Meats and Tuki Trout Farm selling their produce. Along with them are many other farmers which means we can buy straight from the source and not from the supermarket which we love. Of course there are loads of spa and massage visits and THAT fresh air…what’s not to love??!

How did you approach the design and styling of Plonk? We wanted to have a bit of fun with the interior while also ensuring it was in keeping with the style we are used to and love at home. We wanted it to feel like it was the country version of our home when we came up here to stay. We decided to do black floor boards, re- build the fire place, (which was a gas unit when we took over the house) and turn it into a real bricked fireplace as we love a real fire, and we thought it would be a real treat for the guests that don’t have that experience at home. We also wanted to have some fun with the colour palette for the bedrooms. We doubled the size of the king

room ensuite by taking away the dressing room cum wardrobe, turning it into a beautiful free standing bath area. We wanted to modernise the house but at the same time keep it warm and homely and for guests to feel like they are staying in our home rather than a rented hotel.

To ensure they feel welcome I always leave a big jar of marshmallows and toasting sticks, fresh flat leaf parsley, chilli and garlic as well as other provisions for the guests to enjoy.

Can you name any special features of the home? It would have to be the open fire place - essential for Daylesford with the cool climate here. Everyone loves the spa bath and the free standing soak bath. For us it is also about the outdoor space. We absolutely love it!

What drew you to the house originally? Ben found it on the net and made the big mistake of showing me! I tend to be a little guarded with things like this, so as to not fall in love if its not achievable, but it was too late! We could see it had so much potential, we bought it within

eight days after one inspection from me. It is in a great location, had fantastic bones with not much structural change and set within beautiful grounds with apple and pear fruit trees, grass and some sheds - all the things we don’t have in Melbourne - so it seemed like an easy decision!!!

What has worked best for you in your renovations? Ben and I work really well doing reno’s, so that’s a great start! Once we decided on the black floor, everything else evolved from there. We are really happy with how it has all turned out. Now we can just enjoy!

What changes or improvements have you made? Structurally the only change we made was to add the fire place. We painted inside throughout (blackboard paint in the kitchen) and the exterior of the outside sheds. The kitchen was good enough to keep while we completely renovated the bathrooms and added new pendant lighting.

What paint colours did you choose? We used Porters Paints for the interiors. Main bedroom, WHITE RHINO, Queen room, MADEMOISELLE, Single room, LIMONCELLO and in the Kitchen we used a blackboard paint. We chose Antique White for the living areas.

What is your favourite room in the house?

Without a doubt the living area. To sit there with the fire on, cuddling the kids with a glass of red wine while you listen to the rain outside and play backgammon is pure HEAVEN! What do you love most about Plonk? We love the space, fluffing about in the garden, sitting on the deck out the back watching the kids on the swing in the old Oak tree or playing mud pies.

Again, all the things we don’t do in the city. The kids just love coming to Plonk and getting their country fix of fresh air. When we arrive, the work shirts are pulled on along with the gumboots and the weekend starts. Claudi and I recently found a really cool old fire pit at the mill markets and we are now obsessed with our little bonfire.

We sit outside for hours in the crisp air watching the wood burn, toasting marshmallows, potato’s and corn. We just love it!

CoffeE Koukla/Jimmy’s bar. All a part of Jim Frangos corner. I love the feel of Jimmy’s bar, it’s relaxed and raw. Often we take the kids there in the afternoon all still dressed in our work gear and boots, sit out in the gorgeous courtyard and indulge in a beer or two. Sitting in the courtyard feels like you are sitting somewhere in Tuscany.

Breakfast Breakfast and Beer, it’s a little Euro bier cafe. We love the quirk of it and breakie too!

Dinner The Daylesford Hotel, a friend of mine has recently taken it over and it has had a huge overhaul. With front bar dining, a more serious dining room, and a really cool space out the back with a fire and pool table. Shopping We love fossicking through the Mill Market for odd and quirky things. Our shopping revolves around the hardware store and the Sunday market for all sorts of things.. veggies, eggs, great tools (and by that I mean proper old tools that don’t fall apart), and an absolute MUST for every trip is a coffee and some dutch pancakes at the Sunday markets. They are awesome. Plonk is available to rent at www.dayget.com.au

est FEATURE AUSTRALIA

from little things big things

grow

Liz Leuchars had no formal design training. Her background in marketing and advertising led to various design projects, and eventually her own consultancy, but it was always the product itself that really excited her. “I always wanted to have my own retail shop� Liz explains.

PHOTOGRAPHY Rick Carter | STYLING Sian MacPherson WORDS Chauntelle Roelandts

So Liz planted Pond in a back street of Sydney’s northside suburb of Mosman; a small hole in the wall that sold Turkish urns, potted succulents and other bits and pieces. After less than a year, a much larger space became available in the same laneway and the extra space was filled with larger furniture pieces and the unique homewares now synonymous with Pond.

Her menagerie of rare treasures has attracted a loyal customer base, which now spans regional Australia and remote spots across the globe, with the launch of the recent online store seeing half of Pond’s online sales going to overseas buyers.

“Everybody wants something a bit different and special. The onus is on me to keep finding that special something that is both unique and beautiful,” says Leuchars.

Its fair to say that Leuchars’ design philosophy has developed over time with experience. A neutral palette – no prints – beautiful fabrication, limited colour and a quality aesthetic are signature to Liz’s personal aesthetic. “Somewhere between glamorous, understated and timeless,” is how she describes it.

It’s true that the store grows bit by bit in unison with her own design journey. A fashion rack in the original Pond store was so well received, she opened Pond boutique – a designated fashion offering – almost four years ago. This gradual growth has ensured both stores retain that original Pond magic.

And its clear when we arrive at Liz’s house that her home is an extension of the Pond aesthetic: classical and clean, with almost no colour. She says she’s “at ease” with her all white surrounds, preferring textures and a bit of gold and silver bling to add glamour.

It appears however, that the children’s rooms upstairs are an exception to the ‘no-colour rule’; the walls striped with wild, lime green and beds covered with multicoloured patchwork quilts made from old Japanese kimonos. She admits, “It’s only because I didn’t want the children to be deprived!” Saving them from years of colour therapy perhaps.

Textures are introduced downstairs in the main living room in the form of a wooden African senufo stool, carved in one whole piece from a tree trunk, or the striking effigy mask of ‘kindness’ that once graced Pond’s own shelves.

Succulents punctuate the home’s indoor spaces, which open seamlessly to the botanical surrounds. Leuchars and her landscapearchitect husband, both revel in the great outdoors and allow the garden to complement, organically, the monochrome palette indoors.

“The vegetation is beautiful, so we can get away with no colour.”

As newlyweds, the couple moved into the house almost 20 years ago. The old federation home was renovated on arrival, again to accommodate their first child and once more when baby two came along – “That’s when you realise ‘oh, you do need a proper laundry’”– and they haven’t missed a Christmas there ever since.

Before this year’s approaches, Leuchars still has one of her bi-annual trips to Paris to attend to.

This time, a stopover in New York is scheduled in the never-ending search for treasures not yet seen in Australia. Two overseas trips, two stores and two children, that adds up to a whole lot of effort.

“If you love something, its easy to put a lot of energy into it. And the more energy you put in, the more that comes out of it,” affirms Leuchars.

We couldn’t agree more.

est REGULAR FOOD

Cucine cuisine

Whilst creating a curry and cluster feast for this issue we test drove the Bontempi kitchen at Rogerseller and came away with a brand new design crush on the precision of self opening doors and timber drawer interiors.

PHOTOGRAPHY Brooke Holme FOOD & STYLING Marnie Engelander

Lamb shank & COCONUT curry 4 lamb shanks, frenched 3 tbsp vegetable oil 100g Thai red curry paste 20g palm sugar 2 Tbsp fish sauce 1 medium sweet potato – about 500g 400 ml coconut milk 500 ml chicken stock 100 ml water 3 tomatoes, cut into quarters 6 kaffir lime leaves ¼ bunch coriander 3 fresh chillies Jasmine rice Serves 4. Prep time 15-20 minutes. Cook time 2–2&1/2 hours. Preheat the oven to 160C. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a heavy oven-proof casserole and brown the lamb shanks really well on all sides. Remove the shanks, clean out the pan and add remaining oil.

Fry the curry paste on low heat, until fragrant and oily. Add the palm sugar and fish sauce and simmer for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add the sweet potato and toss for two minutes. Pour in the coconut milk bit by bit, stirring as you go. Add the chicken stock, water and canned tomatoes Return the lamb to the pot, along with 4 kaffir lime leaves torn but still intact, and bring to a simmer (don’t boil). Cover and cook in the oven for 2 – 2&½ hours, turning once.

When the lamb is cooked and tender take the shanks out and set aside. Place the pot on the stove top and boil until the sauce has reduced by at least one third. Return the lamb to the sauce, lower the heat and cook for a further couple of minutes to reheat the meat.

Serve with rice. Cut remaining kaffir lime leaves into the strands as fine as possible and scatter over each bowl. Top with coriander and finely cut fresh chillies if you like it hot.

TIPS Swap sweet potatoes for potatoes or use both. Scatter crushed peanuts over each bowl to finish.

ROSE NUT CLUSTERS 300 good quality dark chocolate 100g pistachio slivers or chopped unsalted pistachios 150g almond slivers 6 dried dates, pitted Âź tsp cinnamon powder 1 heaped Tbsp dried edible rose petals Makes 20-35. Prep time 10 minutes. Refrigeration 30 minutes.

Break up the chocolate into a microwave proof bowl and heat in the microwave in 30 second bursts until melted. Alternatively, melt in a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water.

Add the nuts, dates and cinnamon and stir until everything is coated in chocolate.

Using a teaspoon, spoon little mounds onto a lined flat plate or tray. Sprinkle a rose petal on each chocolate and place in the fridge until set, approximately 30 minutes. To serve scatter over a few more petals.

g’day Many Australians have an affinity for the city of Los Angeles.

With flights across our beloved Pacific Ocean becoming more frequent and affordable, it’s little wonder Australians are relocating in droves. We feel at home with the heat, the palm trees, the sprawling suburbs, amazing beaches and most of all dining and shopping for the most discerning antipodean.

EDITED BY Karina Calvert-Jones

PHOTO © Art Gray Photography

est REGULAR TRAVEL

est REGULAR TRAVEL

Former Melbournian Karina Calvert-Jones upped stumps nearly nine years ago for the bright lights and beachy lifestyle of Los Angeles. Relocating to the West Side of LA has not only meant a change of pace for Karina and her young family, but a complete change of lifestyle - especially for her horse-mad husband. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Karina has thrown herself in wholeheartedly into her new hometown and all it has to offer. Karina gives us her own personal guide on the best of where to stay eat and play when you’re next in LA. BREAKFAST AXE RESTAURANT on Abbot and Kinney in Venice has the best 9 grain pancake you will ever eat. HUCKLEBERRY CAFE in Santa Monica for green eggs and ham - trust me they are the best.

LUNCH GJELINA’S is my all time fave and a must see interior designed by MarshallAgraim Studio TAVERN RESTAURANT for truly Californian fare and a stunning interior by Jeffrey Alan Marks. CECCONIS is great! Be sure to ask to sit outside THE FARM SHOP has the best poached chicken salad you will ever have and offers great family dining located in a central courtyard and based around a fire pit. Serving gourmet burgers, chicken, ribs, and Mexican, this is a real locals hangout.

PHOTO © Art Gray Photography

CHATEAU MARMONT is obviously iconic Hollywood and a favourite with the Aussies. A must for either lunch or dinner.

VEGETARIAN CAFE GRATITUDE is 100% organic, vegan and gourmet! Real Food Daily is a pioneer in the green food movement. It’s been around since 1993.

DINNER THE BRENTWOOD RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE for delicious comfort food and an old school vibe. A favourite for the locals. Katsuya japanese is where we take all our out of town guests. They always want to go back time and time again. Yummy. 3 locations. GIORGIO BALDIS is the best Italian restaurant on Westside - and great for celebrity spotting (did I just say that?). CAPO RESTAURANT for the best rigatoni ragu. Ever. MERCADO for modern Mexican and a fun younger crowd. RIVIERA RESTAURANT for modern latin style. MR CHOW for a great Chinese dinner. EVELEIGH for Californian fare and for dinner only.

PHOTO MASS Architecture and Design Š Edward Duarte

PHOTO MASS Architecture and Design © Edward Duarte

COFFEE INTELIGENTSIA for my all time favourite coffee fix. You can find it on Abbot Kinney in Venice with an amazing interior designed by MASS Architecture and Design. CAFE LUXXE There are 3 locations all on the west side and one of them happens to be at the Brentwood Country Mart. ESPRESSO CELIO I love this place!

DRINKS THE PENTHOUSE at the Huntley Hotel for the best view in Santa Monica. THE POLO LOUNGE in the Beverly Hills Hotel because its a classic. THE TASTING KITCHEN is not only a great bar but has great food too. TOWER BAR in the Sunset Tower Hotel. This is personally my favourite restaurant in West Hollywood. Old school Hollywood glamour.

SWEETS SWEET ROSE ice creamery for fresh organic ice cream made daily. Believe me when I say amazing flavours.

SHOP THE BRENTWOOD COUNTRY MART is the market to find some of LA’s best shops and restaurants. HELMS BAKERY DISTRICT used to be a bakery but is now a massive furniture and homewares haven. Pom Pom Interiors for relaxed living. BLACKMAN CRUZ for an eclectic mix of curated finds. OBSOLETE for art and curiosities. THE ROSE BOWL flea market is held once a month. BIG DADDY’S ANTIQUES is the go-to source for prop stylists, set designers and interior designers.

INDULGE SAN YISIDRO RANCH is an old Hollywood favourite based outside of Santa Barbara with gorgeous cabins a stunning setting and great restaurants. The Parker in Palm Springs has a trendy old school crowd.

Be sure to dine at Mr Parker’s for dinner. The Sunday farmers market on Main Street Venice is great for families - like all farmers markets you just need to be sure to go early!

IMAGES VIA I LOVE YOUR STYLE

IMAGES VIA STUDIO ARRC

IMAGES VIA SHOW AND TELL

est REGULAR LOVE

Blog Love I LOVE YOUR STYLE Amanda Brooks is the author of one of our favourite books, documenting stylish woman around the world. It was published before the street style phenomenon became a part of the modern day vernacular and interviews women about their look and what style rules they live by. Readers can then in turn decipher and adapt to create their own chic style. The ‘I Love Your Style’ blog is a regular musing of Amanda’s life, dotted with interludes of stylish women that pique her interest. Whether riding through English fields, touring country roads in vintage cars or cycling the streets of Manhattan, Amanda does so in style ... of course.

STUDIO ARRC Sophie Carr is not only a talented interior designer with her finger on the pulse of what is hot in the design world, she is also living the dream. Sophie has traded Bondi Beach for the Mediterranean, which is clearly not a tradeoff in any ones eyes! This puts her close to all the European design action, making Studio Arrc the perfect reference for those who share Sophie’s innate Australian love for a relaxed style that is both fresh and relevant.

SHOW AND TELL A collaboration of the best kind, Show and Tell is the creation of friends and absolute dynamos, Monty, Brooke and Stacey.

Whether it involves child wrangling, interviewing inspiring women or mulling over the merit of white floorboards over black, these vivacious and warm hearted women manage to draw the best from their subjects, who happily open up about their trials, tribulations and lessons learnt in life. From interior design choices to creative collaboration profiles and insights into the real lives of those who seemingly ‘have it all’, Show and Tell gives us all something to think about throughout the day.