TEN TS CON
Summer outdoor trends forecast
Evolution of the outdoor kitchen
A kitchen reimagined
Recipes that celebrate outdoor cooking
The new standards in tapware
Porter’s Paints: The golden palette
Best of the Beaches
The future of stone
The art of cohesion
WPorter’s Paints –Light Rosso
e’re excited to share the next edition of CREATE, our quarterly magazine by Sydney Home Design Centre. Whether you’re designing a new space, or reimagining an existing one, CREATE is your go-to guide for transforming spaces.
In this edition, CREATE embraces the soul of summer, open spaces, golden light, and the ease of living both indoors and out. We uncover the outdoor trends redefining the season and explore the evolution of the outdoor kitchen into a beautifully considered extension of the home. And because summer is best shared, we’ve included recipes perfect for slow afternoons and long evenings.
The golden palette from Porter’s Paints celebrates a refined interplay of colour, texture, and seasonal light, capturing the vibrancy of summer. Perfect for both interiors and outdoor spaces, it invites you to reimagine your surroundings and refresh your home for the changing season.
And to bring it all together, we share thoughtful approaches for creating connection and continuity throughout every space, whether through materials, colour, or curated décor.
We hope this magazine sparks creativity and helps you transform your space into a place that reflects your personal style and vision. Enjoy the journey, and let’s CREATE something amazing together!
Cliff,Kathy and Natalie
AND THE SYDNEY HOME DESIGN CENTRE TEAM
Why choose Sydney Home Design Centre?
Built on legacy, evolving with innovation
Sydney Home Design Centre, located at Johnson Bros Mitre 10 Mona Vale , is proudly family owned and operated. Part of the Johnson Bros Group, the original store was opened by John and Bob Johnson in 1955. Today, it’s a thriving business offering whole-ofhouse solutions to the Greater Sydney communities and beyond.
Strong values, community involvement and an emphasis on being dependable is a clear legacy that the beloved Johnson brothers imparted on the business, something their sons and daughters proudly carry on to this day.
When you visit our newly renovated showroom, you’ll not only experience premium products and innovative solutions, but superior and friendly service, with our team always going the extra mile for our customers.
“The team at Sydney Home Design Centre are always fantastic. They have such great products which we’ve used several times now in kitchens, laundries and wardrobes, and the service is excellent.”
JUDY AND GRAEME
Bob, Maureen and John Johnson
Designing with expertise, delivering with care
AUSTRALIAN-OWNED AND OPERATED
We are proudly Australianowned and operated. We understand the local market and deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of our customers.
COMMITMENT TO QUALITY
We are driven by a passion for quality and craftsmanship. That’s why we source products from trusted brands renowned for their durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, ensuring your investment lasts for years to come.
EXPERT DESIGN TEAM
Led by a team of experienced design experts, we collaborate closely with you to bring your vision to life, offering expert advice and innovative solutions for every detail of your project.
EXTENSIVE RANGE OF PREMIUM BRANDS
We offer an extensive range of high-quality, premium brands and products, ensuring you have access to the latest designs, innovations, and materials for your project.
UNMATCHED CUSTOMER SERVICE
We’re committed to providing a full-service experience that exceeds your expectations. Our friendly, expert team supports you at every stage, ensuring a smooth, stress-free project and an enjoyable design journey.
BESPOKE DESIGN EXPERIENCE
From initial concept to completion, we provide a fully personalised design experience, carefully tailored to your vision, timeline and budget.
Transform your home into an intuitive, connected space with cutting-edge smart home solutions. With privacy-first cloud services and fully tailored automation built to suit your lifestyle, Konec delivers smart living that’s not only easy to use but made to last.
Smart Locks
Unlock using multiple methods, including fingerprint and app control for effortless access.
Smart Curtain Motor
Automatically retracts at dawn, filling your room with light.
Control Panel
Control devices, trigger scenes, stream security cameras, play music, and more from one screen.
Smart Gateway
Easily connect and manage your smart devices with the gateway.
and remotely control your home temperature
Smart Alarms
Enhance safety with a solar-recharged security alarm.
Smart Garage Controller
Control your garage door remotely for added convenience and security.
Smart Lighting
Adjust the living room downlights' brightness and colour with ease.
Smart Switches & GPO
Control devices with smart switches and power outlets.
Smart Security Cameras
Your home is monitored 24/7 with remote access via the app.
Your design journey
WITH SYDNEY HOME DESIGN CENTRE
Whether you’re building, renovating, or reimagining a new space, our design experts will guide you through the design journey process, delivering tailored plans that combine style and functionality with unmatched quality. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the key stages in your design journey, ensuring a seamless and inspired process from start to finish.
1. Imagine it.
Walk into our showroom, where your vision comes to life! Get inspired by our displays, layouts, and materials, this is where your dream begins.
2. Plan it.
Sit down with our design experts for a one-on-one consultation. We’ll turn your ideas into a custom design and provide a project quote that fits your style and budget.
4. Confirm it.
Once everything’s just right, we’ll confirm your measurements and send you the final blueprint for your go-ahead.
3.
Refine it.
Collaborate with our design team to add those personal touches. From materials to colours, we’ll perfect every little detail.
5. Create it.
We’re on it! While we bring your bespoke project to life, we’ll keep you in the loop on progress and production timelines.
6. Install it.
We’ll coordinate with you for a smooth installation, sit back while our experts turn your design into reality.
7. Enjoy it.
It’s all yours! Step back and enjoy the stunning space you’ve brought to
Summer outdoor trends forecast
THE CONVERSATION AROUND OUTDOOR LIVING HAS EVOLVED FROM COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE TO ARTISTRY AND INTENTION. THE GARDEN, THE PATIO, THE TERRACE, THESE ARE NO LONGER PERIPHERAL ZONES BUT THE NEW SOCIAL AND SENSORY HEART OF THE HOME. WHAT DEFINES THEM THIS SEASON? A CONVERGENCE OF CRAFTSMANSHIP, CONSCIENCE, AND CALM. HERE, WE UNPACK THE 10 DEFINING TRENDS SHAPING THE WAY WE LIVE UNDER OPEN SKIES IN 2026.
The seamless threshold
Indoor and outdoor are merging into one continuous experience. Designers are specifying matching flooring materials, extending lighting plans, and using vast sliding doors to erase the line between house and horizon. The result is a design rhythm that moves fluidly from sofa to sun lounger, dining table to deck.
Year-round alfresco living
Pergolas with retractable roofs, integrated heating and lighting, and smart shading have made outdoor spaces a four-season retreat. Designers are even recommending outdoor rugs and weather-proof drapery to cocoon spaces once exposed during winter.
Curves in the landscape
Hard lines are softening, and furniture and structures are adopting more organic silhouettes like pebble-like coffee tables, arched pergolas, and crescentshaped features. This shift towards the sculptural feels both modern and primal.
Culinary architecture
The outdoor kitchen has matured into a full culinary suite. Stone counters, induction cooktops, refrigeration, and bespoke dining pavilions blur the line between hosting and habitat.
Porter’s Paints – Stone Paint Fine, Half Old Church White
Euro Alfresco – Custom design
Biophilia, refined
The lush maximalism of early biophilic design is giving way to something more refined. Designers are favouring native planting, soft grasses, and layered greenery, paired with natural materials. It’s become less about abundance and more about atmosphere and landscapes designed to breathe with you.
The earth-tone renaissance
Colour palettes this summer draw directly from the ground beneath our feet – clay, sandstone, soot, ochre, olive, and sun-washed coral. Paired with natural light and raw materials, they create spaces that feel both grounded and effortlessly modern.
Porter’s Paints – Sun Ranch project
A sculptural shift
Gone are the days of matching outdoor sets. In their place: pieces that look more like art than furniture. Think concrete benches, tubular steel lounges, and resin-coated dining tables that glint in the sun. Designers are treating outdoor furniture as landscape architecture, objects that anchor and define space rather than simply fill it.
Intelligent exteriors
Outdoor spaces are transforming into seamless smart environments, where adaptive lighting, integrated sound, and discreet technology elevate comfort and ambiance, enhancing the experience without screens or visual clutter. 08
Zoned for multipurpose living
Single-purpose outdoor living is moving way to spaces that shift with the hour and mood. Modular seating, movable partitions, and flexible appliances create distinct zones for dining, lounging, cooking, play, or reflection. Think morning yoga here, evening cocktails there. 09
Materials that matter
The new luxury lies in materials that last, ethically, aesthetically, and physically. Designers are embracing responsibly sourced timber, recycled metals, and stone that weathers beautifully. From traceable origins to regenerative finishes, sustainability is no longer a choice but a quiet design standard.
ASTUTE Timber – Yakisugi
Form embraces function
The demand for clean, uninterrupted interior lines has never been greater The Triline FlushSlide system meets this need by allowing doors to sit perfectly flush with surrounding walls or joinery when closed, creating a seamless, almost invisible appearance Unlike traditional sliding doors that sit centered within the wall cavity, this system keeps the door on the same plane as the wall when closed, delivering a sleek, integrated look
The ability to seamlessly blend doors with wall panelling or finishes whether timber, laminate, or joinery surfaces ensures a consistent, cohesive aesthetic throughout any interior space F l u s h S l i d e
Our Avion vanity doesn’t make you choose between style and function — you get both. Its curved ends with open shelving offer the perfect spot for your morning essentials or favourite styling pieces. The contemporary minimal aesthetic will complement any bathroom style.
Quality Australian design that turns everyday moments into something special. Drop by the
For those working on high-end homes, luxury apartments, or commercial fit-outs, this level of refinement is transformative
Form embraces function
PREMIUM ARCHITECTURAL TIMBER RANGE
Crafted
Our Avion vanity doesn’t make you choose between style and function — you get both. Its curved ends with open shelving offer the perfect spot for your morning essentials or favourite styling pieces. The contemporary minimal aesthetic will complement any bathroom style. Quality Australian design that turns everyday moments into something special. Drop by the
Thermo-Ayous Yakisugi Accoya
New Guinea Rosewood Western Red Cedar
Burmese Teak
Fijian Mahogany
TAP INTO INNOVATION
Meet the World’s First Pull Out Wall Spout
Now in Satin, Chrome & Matt Black – Only from Suprema
RETRACTABLE WALL SPOUTS
Our innovative design is made from 304 stainless steel with an elegant gooseneck style spout.
Featuring a dual spray pattern and rotating ball joint nozzle, this revolutionary design is ideal for bathrooms, laundrys and kitchens.
Easy to install, it can be used to replace the majority of existing wall spouts.
Match with new or existing wall-mounted tap handles.
MATCHING WALL-MOUNTED TAP HANDLES
Lead free stainless steel tap handles ¼ turn technology for effortless control
EVOLUTION OF THE
OUT DOORkitchen itchen
There’s a quiet revolution happening in our homes, one that begins not in the living room or dining area, but beyond the threshold of the sliding doors. The great outdoors has become the new social hub, a seamless extension of our lifestyle. And at its center stands a design statement once reserved for the indoors: the alfresco kitchen.
Welcome to the era of cooking without walls, and at the forefront of this transformation is Euro Alfresco, the brand reimagining what an outdoor kitchen can be.
Design meets lifestyle
For years, outdoor cooking was synonymous with the humble barbecue, a weekend ritual of friends, food and spontaneity. Today, it’s evolved into something altogether more refined. Outdoor kitchens are now architectural features, merging culinary performance with sculptural design and sociable flow.
Euro Alfresco’s range captures this new balance of form and function perfectly. Crafted from weather-proof materials and premium Australian made cabinetry, every element feels as deliberate and beautiful as an indoor kitchen yet engineered to live fully outdoors.
Euro Alfresco – Custom design
Sculpted for the senses
There’s a new quiet sophistication in outdoor kitchen design: clean lines, subtle textures, and timeless palettes that respond to light and landscape. In daylight, brushed metal surfaces reflect the shimmer of the garden; at dusk, integrated lighting transforms workstations into softly glowing stages for evening feasts.
Euro Alfresco’s modular solutions let each homeowner sculpt that sophistication for themselves, whether shaping a compact balcony setup or a full entertainer’s pavilion, every layout balances flexibility with a refined, cohesive aesthetic.
A stage for entertaining
At a time when entertaining has become more intimate, the outdoor kitchen offers something traditional interiors can’t: openness. There’s a certain magic in preparing dinner beneath the fading sky, laughter carried in a soft breeze and conversation flowing freely between guests and cook.
Euro Alfresco understands this rhythm. Their designs are made for interaction, counters that invite guests to gather, a variety of cabinet configurations, clever storage that keeps surfaces minimal, and layouts that prioritise social connection.
Euro Alfresco – Custom design
Built for the elements, designed for elegance
Outdoor kitchen materials are now being selected with both endurance and beauty in mind. Powder-coated aluminium and marine-grade stainless steel resist the harsh Australian climate, while stone and composite bench tops deliver visual depth and tactile appeal.
Euro Alfresco are performance designed –tested against weather, time, and use, without ever sacrificing aesthetics. Their products aren’t outdoor kitchens that merely survive the elements; they belong in them.
Sustainability in substance
Durability is, in itself, a form of sustainability. Today’s design philosophy rejects the throwaway culture of temporary outdoor furniture, embracing craftsmanship and materials that stand the test of time. Each kitchen is being built to be repaired, reconfigured, and cherished, a responsible approach to luxury that aligns with the modern pursuit of longevity and low-impact living.
As summer evenings stretch longer, one thing feels certain — the true heart of the modern home now beats outdoors: an invitation to live differently, to cook with the seasons, dine beneath the stars, and savour the simple pleasure of presence.
Euro Alfresco – Custom design
REIMAGINED A kitchen
HOW THOUGHTFUL DESIGN, QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP, AND CONSIDERED DETAIL TRANSFORMED A TIRED LAYOUT INTO AN AWARD-WINNING KITCHEN. BEFORE
In this year’s Principal Kitchens Design of the Year Awards, * one kitchen stood apart, not for its grandeur, but for its effortless balance of restraint and warmth. What began as a dated layout has been reimagined as a light-filled heart of the home that celebrates connection, material honesty, and seamless indoor-outdoor living.
The redesign by Sydney Home Design Centre focused on coastal, calm simplicity reflecting their Northern Beaches, Sydney location. Shaker cabinetry, Caesarstone benchtops, integrated appliances, and a refined colour palette work together to create a sense of quiet sophistication.
Every element serves a purpose. Concealed cabinetry and tandem pantries ensure clutter-free functionality, while open shelving invites personal expression. The flow extends naturally to the outdoors with the addition of an external eatery further enhancing the home’s sense of openness and ease. This award-winning kitchen is more than a renovation. It demonstrates how thoughtful design moves beyond aesthetics to shape our daily experiences: how we gather, cook, and connect. And in a world that rushes, this kitchen stands as a reminder that true luxury is found in balance.
*Principal Kitchens Design of the Year – over $7,500 kitchen category, August 2025.
Cabinetry: Principal Kitchens – Shaker doors and drawer fronts.
Benchtop: Caesarstone 20mm benchtop – Intense white.
Appliances: Di Lusso Appliances – Oven and undermount 520mm rangehood.
Pantry: Häfele Kessebohmer – Tandem 450mm pull-out pantry inserts.
Hardware: Häfele – Aluminium
Ready to reimagine your own space?
Chat with the Sydney Home Design Centre team today.
KING ISLAND CRAYFISH with saltbush butter
PREP: 20 MINS
INGREDIENTS
1.5 kg live King Island crayfish or local rock lobster
1/4 cup (60ml) of olive oil
1 cup saltbush leaves or flat-leaf parsley leaves
Lemon wedges and finger lime pearls, to serve
Saltbush Butter
150g unsalted butter, softened
2 tbs finely chopped saltbush leaves or flat-leaf parsley leaves
1 small red chilli, seeds removed, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, crushed
Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
METHOD
BBQ: 14 MINS
SERVES: 2
1. In a mixing bowl, combine butter, saltbush leaves, chilli, garlic and lemon, seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Place crayfish in the freezer for approximately 2 hours (ensuring it is placed on it’s back on a flat, non-slip surface with claws tied to clearly expose the underside).
3. To slice crayfish, place a sharp knife on the head beneath the mouth parts and sharply cut through the head, then backwards towards the tail. Open out to reveal the 2 parts.
4. Discard the dark intestinal vein, stomach sac and gills, then crack claws slightly in half crossways.
5. Transfer crayfish, flesh-side up, to a prepared baking tray and drizzle with oil. Heat up your EuroBBQ grill to high-heat and add the crayfish, flesh-side down, cooking for 4 minutes or until slightly charred.
6. Turn crayfish flesh-side up and using a spoon, spread flesh with saltbush butter mixture. Cook for a further 8-10 minutes or until crayfish is just cooked through. Add saltbush leaves to the grill during the final 5 minutes of cooking aiming for a slight char.
7. To serve, scatter crayfish with charred saltbush leaves, lemon wedges and finger lime pearls and enjoy!
GRILLED HALLOUMI with pistachio pesto
PREP: 20 MINS
INGREDIENTS
200-300g of halloumi cheese, cut into 1 inch chunks
220g of cherry tomatoes
220g of button mushrooms, stems removed
1 1/2 cups of baby white potatoes, halved
1 cup of whole radishes, halved
1 zucchini squash, chopped
1 red onion, chopped
1 capsicum, chopped
Salt and pepper, for sprinkling Olive oil
Pistachio Pesto
1 cup of shelled pistachios
1/2 cups of loosely packed fresh basil leaves torn
1/2 cup of fresh rocket
2 tbs of fresh oregano
3 garlic cloves
1/3 cup of finely grated pecorino, romano cheese
1/3 to 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
1/4 tsp of salt
Equipment
Skewers
COOK: 12 MINS
METHOD
1. Chop up vegetables ensuring they are all the same size.
2. Skewer your vegetables, roughly 12 to 15 pieces on each skewer. However, some pieces like capsicum and onions require a stack of 3 or 4 slices together (should roughly make 8 large skewers).
3. Skewer 4 to 5 pieces of halloumi on each skewer, with 2 pieces of vegetables.
4. Pre-heat your EuroBBQ grill to medium-heat for a minimum of 15 minutes, reaching an ideal temperature of 180-200°C.
5. Brush your skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Place vegetable skewers directly on the grill for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, rotating 3 to 4 times ensuring all sides are evenly charred.
7. Place the halloumi skewers directly on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until grill marks appear.
8. Place pistachios, basil, rocket, oregano, garlic and cheese in a food processor. Pulse and blend until the nuts are roughly crushed, then with the processor on, pour in 1/3 cup of olive oil. Add a little more if necessary. Taste the pesto and add in salt, blending once more.
9. Serve vegetable skewers with the halloumi skewers and pistachio pesto and enjoy!
MARINATED CHICKEN with zesty green chilli lime yogurt
PREP: 15 MINS
INGREDIENTS
800 g of boneless chicken thigh fillets
Marinade
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tbsp of olive oil
1 tsp of ground cumin
1 tsp of sweet smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
3/4 tsp of salt
Zesty Green Chilli
Lime Yoghurt
1 green chilli, roughly chopped
2 spring onions, white and light green parts
50g of coriander leaves
2 tbsp of fresh lime juice
1/8 tsp of sea salt
200g of greek yoghurt
METHOD
BBQ: 10 MINS SERVES: 4
1. In a large bowl, mix together the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken, toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours (at least 30 minutes).
2. For the dressing; in a small blender, blitz the chilli, spring onion, coriander, lime juice and salt.
3. In a serving bowl, fold half the green dressing through the yoghurt and swirl the remaining green dressing over the top. Refrigerate until required.
4. Prepare your WeberBBQ for cooking with direct medium-high heat (210°C-250°C) and pre-heat as directed.
5. Once the BBQ has pre-heated, brush the cooking grills clean with a wire brush.
6. Grill the chicken, skin side down first (if cooking skin on fillets). Close the lid and cook for 10 minutes or until golden grill marks appear and the chicken has cooked through, turning once, halfway through the cooking time.
7. Remove the chicken from the BBQ and leave to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
8. Serve with the zesty green chilli lime yoghurt.
PRAWN, CHORIZO and lime skewers
PREP: 10 MINS
INGREDIENTS
16 large green prawns, shelled, de-veined, tails intact
3 limes, cut into 1.5 cm thick wedges
2 smoked chorizos, sliced into 1 cm thick rounds
3 tbsp of finely chopped fresh coriander
1 red chilli, seeds removed, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp of sea salt
BBQ: 4 MINS SERVES: 3
METHOD
1. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare your WeberBBQ for cooking over direct high heat (250°C-290°C) and pre-heat as directed.
3. In a bowl, combine the prawns with the marinade ingredients. Thread the prawns, chorizo, and lime onto the skewers.
4. Once the BBQ has pre-heated, brush the cooking grills clean with a wire brush. Grill the prawn skewers over direct high heat, with the lid closed, for 4 minutes, flipping halfway through or until the prawns are opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately. Encourage your guests to hold the skewer upright and squeeze the lime so the juices run over the prawns and chorizo.
THE NEW STANDARDS IN TAPWARE
There is a movement across many developed countries to making tapware safer for drinking.
By May 2026 in Australia, all newly installed tapware is not to exceed 0.25% weighted average lead content.*
The change is a response to worldwide research on the effects of deterioration of copper alloys in brass plumbing products. Findings show that lead is being leached from this deterioration and finding its way into drinking water.
NO SAFE LEVEL OF LEAD
The new regulations stipulates a maximum of 0.25% of lead content allowable, which allows for low lead brass to be used.
Many brands are moving towards using low lead brass, however Suprema XpressFit mixers is in agreement with the World Health Organisation (WHO) which advises that there is no safe level of lead in drinking water.
LEAD-FREE FROM THE VERY BEGINNING
* Source: Australian Building Codes Board and New Zealand Building Code.
While all other brands have been gearing up for this change in material requirements, Suprema XpressFit mixers were always manufactured from lead-free stainless steel. Suprema XpressFit mixers were designed to be ahead of its time and leading the way in tapware innovation.
Hot design is a Shore thing
Our Shore vanity will give your bathroom curves for days, with its rounded side panels and fluted finish. With five size options and 12 sublime colours, and your choice of wallmounted, kick or leg options, it is everything you need to complete your dream designer bathroom with the contours that count.
See how the Shore vanity can transform your bathroom into the best on the block — check it out at the Sydney Home Design Centre.
Shown here: Shore 4 1200mm wide in Prime Oak finish. 2 drawer, wallmount with Symphony Blanco top. Complete the look with the Stadia White Gloss basin and Brushed Brass Top Pull 350mm handles.
$3,642 RRP
I N T R O D U C I N G
where sleek flooring meets uncompromising sustainability
Crafted from sustainably sourced wood with a refined nominal 3mm Lamella, Optimise maximises resource efficiency without compromising quality
Our commitment to innovative craftmanship endures durability, modern aesthetics, and a lower environmental footprint on every plank With its economical design, Australian Native Optimise provides a costeffective solution for high quality flooring
Australian Native Optimise Specifications
Species:
Coating:
Length:
Width:
Thickness:
Profile:
Packaging:
Blackbutt & Spotted Gum
Bona UV Lacquer System
1,830mm & 2,190mm
132mm
13.5mm (Lamella Nominal 3mm)
Micro Bevel (Sides and Ends)
8 Rows Per Box, Maximum of 3 Nested Rows
Australian Native Optimise - Spotted Gum
Australian Native Optimise - Blackbutt
The palettegolden
There’s a certain kind of light that only summer knows, that honeyed, liquid radiance that spills through open windows, glances off brass, and lingers on pale stone. Designers call it the golden hour , but in 2026, it’s also a mood. A mood shaping everything from colour palettes to material choices across interiors and outdoor living spaces.
This season, warmth has replaced the cool minimalism of recent years. The trend is tactile, sun-washed, and softly radiant...a palette that feels like standing in the last light of day.
A return to warmth
After years of greys and stark neutrals, designers are embracing pigment again, not in bold, saturated tones, but in nuanced, earthy hues that carry the quiet depth of sun and soil. Think buttercream and ochre, clay and sand, terracotta, amber, and driftwood.
These sun-touched hues soften architectural lines and lend warmth to open-plan spaces. They also blur beautifully between indoors and out, essential in an age when terraces, patios, and courtyards are becoming seamless extensions of the home.
Porter’s Paints – Light Rosso
The alchemy of material
Colour alone doesn’t define this palette; texture does. The new summer aesthetic is rooted in tactility, surfaces that catch, diffuse, or reflect light in subtle ways.
Stone walls absorb sunlight and give it back as a gentle radiance. Honed travertine and sandstone shimmer in warm tones without gloss. Polished brass, smoked glass, and woven straw introduce reflective notes that flicker as the day changes.
The result feels grounded yet luminous, a soft interplay between light and matter that makes a space breathe.
Nature as palette
The inspiration for the golden palette comes, unsurprisingly, from the natural world.
Designers are looking to landscapes at the edge of the day, sunlit dunes, ripened fields, sandstone cliffs at sunset.
In textiles, that translates to flax linen, cotton gauze, and natural jute, fabrics that feel sun-kissed, not synthetic. In furniture, it’s timber, straw marquetry, and rattan, each carrying the memory of light. Even concrete is being reimagined in warm taupe tones, lending softness to what was once a cold material.
Outdoors, the effect is even more profound: sunlight dancing over pale stone, brass lanterns catching the evening glow, terracotta planters deepening in hue as they weather.
Porter’s Paints – Oxblood
Porter’s Paints – Stone Paint
Porter’s Paints pairings
The secret to a golden summer palette? A balance of warmth and texture. Explore Porter’s Paints’ favourite seasonal pairings.
BUTTERCREAM + BURNISHED BRASS
Soft, creamy neutrals meet warm metallics.
SANDSTONE + OLIVE ACCENTS
Earthy, subtle tones meet grounded sophistication.
The light factor
Lighting design plays a crucial role in making these colours come alive. As natural light fades, the shift to artificial illumination should be seamless. Soft, warm LED temperatures preserve the richness of the palette, while shaded sconces and indirect uplighting maintain that golden-hour depth.
Ultimately, ‘The golden palette’ is more than a trend, it’s a sensibility. It reflects a cultural move toward slowing down and reconnecting.
+ PALE WOODS
Sub-baked, organic hues meet natural simplicity.
CLAY
TERRACOTTA + PALE LINEN
Bold rustic hues meet quiet calm.
Porter’s Paints – Country Road
MONA’SPLAYGRO Open Everyday
GARDEN BAR
serving up your fav cocktails daily
BEST OF THE BEACHES
OCEANS, NARRABEEN
Set just steps from the iconic North Narrabeen Beach, Oceans serves up vibrant, laid-back dining with something for every appetite. The menu includes everything from great coffee and legendary breakfasts to tapas, fresh seafood, hearty steaks and gourmet burgers. Add in their famed Sunday Sessions, live music, and standout mid-week specials, and you’ve got a spot that hums any day of the week
AVALON RSL, AVALON
Down from the sun and surf of Avalon Beach, Avalon RSL combines laid-back Northern Beaches vibes with great food, drinks, and entertainment for all ages. The menu has something for everyone, pub classics, shareable bites, and a full bar to keep the good times flowing. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, enjoying live music, or bringing the whole family for a relaxed meal, Avalon RSL is the perfect spot.
JC’S PIZZA, HARBORD
Located within Harbord Bowlo, JC’s Pizza promises home-style Italian cooking, fresh food and a lively atmosphere. Alongside their famous pizzas, the menu also features trattoria-style favourites, pastas, kid’s meals, and mouthwatering gelato. With indoor and outdoor dining spaces, it’s the perfect spot to share a meal with friends or sip on a cheeky cocktail in the sun while the kids play in the grassed beer garden. Come hungry, leave happy!
$2 tapas
Happy Hour drinks
3pm–5pm, Fridays
$10 Kids meals (12 years and under)
$10 Chicken wings
12pm–8:30pm, Sundays
2 large Pizzas for $36 (take-away) and Chicken Schnitzel & Chips for $12 (dine-in)
4pm onwards, Tuesdays
KICK BACK, SETTLE IN, AND MAKE THE MOST OF THE NORTHERN BEACHES’ FINEST. FROM FRESH BITES TO EASY DRINKS AND EFFORTLESS ATMOSPHERE, THESE LOCAL GEMS KEEP THE SUMMER SPIRIT FLOWING ALL WEEKEND LONG
THE MONA SOCIAL, MONA VALE
Nestled in the scenic grounds of The Mona Vale Golf Club, The Mona Social offers lush views across the greens and beyond to the cliffs above Warriewood Beach. Think Boathouse meets Country Club: casual dining, a large bar with tap beer, sports viewing, and arcade and pool tables. From bar classics and share plates to fresh seafood and bistro favourites, Head Chef Cameron Johnston has crafted a menu perfect for sharing with friends and family.
INSITU, MANLY
One of the Northern Beaches’ originals, Insitu has been serving locals and visitors for over 20 years. Its name, “In Situ”, means in its natural or appropriate place, and the vibrant energy here proves it’s exactly that. Located in central Manly, the bar and restaurant offers a mix of alfresco dining, live music, and a buzzing atmosphere that fits any mood.
LOCO BIRRIA, NARRABEEN
In the heart of Narrabeen, Loco Birria brings the flavour and spirit of Mexico to the Northern Beaches. With bold décor, laid-back tunes, and the aroma of authentic street-style eats, it’s the ultimate spot to unwind and soak up good vibes. Recently refreshed, Loco Birria feels like a little Mexican getaway, no passport required.
Two-course, two-hour bottomless lunch for $95 per person 12pm onwards, Saturdays and Sundays
$12 Margherita pizzas
2 for $23 signature cocktails 4–6pm, daily
3 tacos for $15 Happy Hour drinks 5pm–7pm, Tuesdays
STONE THE FUTURE OF
Calacatta Macchia Vecchia
Taj Mahal
Calacatta Oro
Zer0 Stone Surfaces is redefining how we bring stone into our homes. As the next generation of stone surfaces from Trendstone, Zer0 offers a superior alternative to the now-banned engineered stone. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, Zer0 expertly blends exceptional quality, durability, and style – setting new industry standards and making luxury truly accessible.
BETTER SCIENCE
Our advanced formula minimises chemical reactions common in other stone surfaces, ensuring greater safety and stability.
PREMIUM NATURAL LOOK
Zer0 flawlessly replicates the beauty and texture of natural stone, indistinguishable to the eye and touch.
EXCEPTIONAL DURABILITY
Engineered to resist stains, scratches, and heat, Zer0 stands up to everyday wear with lasting strength.
SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING
UNBEATABLE AFFORDABILITY
Delivers premium quality and performance at a price that makes luxury accessible.
THE SMARTER CHOICE FOR HOMEOWNERS WHO REFUSE TO SETTLE
Chat to SYDNEY HOME DESIGN CENTRE to explore the full slabs, compare prices, and see why Zer0 Stone Surfaces is the future of affordable luxury.
Produced with environmentally responsible methods, Zer0 supports a greener future. www.Zer0.com.au
HOW TO DESIGN SPACES THAT CONNECT
THE OF COHESION art
IN TODAY’S INTERIORS, THE MOST COMPELLING SPACES ARE THOSE THAT FEEL THOUGHTFULLY CURATED, WITH MATERIALS THAT FLOW SEAMLESSLY FROM ROOM TO ROOM. MIXING WOOD, METAL, STONE, AND OTHER FINISHES ISN’T JUST ABOUT VARIETY, IT’S ABOUT BALANCE. WHEN DONE RIGHT, IT CREATES A SENSE OF COHESION AND SOPHISTICATION THAT ELEVATES EVERY CORNER OF YOUR HOME, FROM KITCHENS TO BATHROOMS AND WARDROBES.
LAYER TEXTURES THOUGHTFULLY
Texture is where personality comes into play. In kitchens, a matte stone benchtop paired with high-gloss cabinetry creates depth and interest. Bathrooms can combine soft timber shelving with polished tiles to achieve a spa-like calm, while wardrobes benefit from the tactile richness of wood grain or textured finishes. By thoughtfully layering materials, each space tells a story while remaining part of the home’s broader design narrative.
Principals Kitchens – Wardrobe, Natural Oak
LET KEY FEATURES LEAD
Anchor rooms with standout elements that can be echoed elsewhere. A sleek metallic faucet in the kitchen might inspire matching fixtures in the bathroom. Floorboards in natural timber tones can extend into wardrobe areas, subtly linking private and public spaces. Even small touches, like coordinating cabinet handles or tile insets, can unify a home’s aesthetic in a way that feels seamless and considered.
Hurford’s Timber Flooring –Herringbone
Marquis – Shore vanity
USE SUPPLIER COLLECTIONS TO
YOUR
ADVANTAGE
Modern supplier collections make mixing and matching materials easier than ever. Coordinated cabinetry lines, a range of benchtops in complementary stones, or wall panels to pair with timber floors allow you to experiment with textures and finishes confidently. By selecting products that are designed to work together, you ensure that each room contributes to a cohesive whole without compromising individuality.
BALANCE AND RESTRAINT
The art of mixing materials lies in restraint. Too many textures can feel chaotic, while a carefully curated selection elevates every space. Think about how each material interacts under natural light, how it feels underfoot or to the touch, and how it complements other finishes in the home. When balance is achieved, the result is a home that is refined, inviting, and visually harmonious.
Surround by Laminex – Scollop 225
ULTIMATELY
MIXING MATERIALS ISN’T ABOUT FOLLOWING TRENDS, IT’S ABOUT CREATING A DESIGN LANGUAGE THAT RUNS THROUGH YOUR HOME. WITH LAYERING, CONSISTENT PALETTES, AND THE RIGHT SUPPLIER PRODUCTS AT HAND, YOUR KITCHEN, BATHROOM, AND WARDROBE SPACES CAN FEEL UNIFIED YET UNIQUELY EXPRESSIVE, A TESTAMENT TO THE BEAUTY OF MATERIALS THOUGHTFULLY COMBINED.
Surround by Laminex – Scollop 135
XE1
Introducing Surround by Laminex — a modern range of decorative wall panels.
Introducing Surround by Laminex — a modern range of decorative wall panels.
Introducing Surround by Laminex — a modern range of decorative wall panels.
Transform your home with a range of easy-to-install MDF wall panels, available in classic and contemporary profiles. Surround by Laminex will add warmth and texture to any space — simply install and paint to complete your look.
Transform your home with a range of easy-to-install MDF wall panels, available in classic and contemporary profiles. Surround by Laminex will add warmth and texture to any space — simply install and paint to complete your look.
Transform your home with a range of easy-to-install MDF wall panels, available in classic and contemporary profiles. Surround by Laminex will add warmth and texture to any space — simply install and paint to complete your look.
To find out more visit surroundbylaminex.com.au
To find out more visit surroundbylaminex.com.au A different way to do
To find out more visit surroundbylaminex.com.au
FreeDesign Consultation
Great design starts with the right advice
