Welcome to the October issue, where we dive into some of the most stylish and practical design choices for your home.
We explore the beauty and versatility of Tundra Grey a popular choice for benchtops and bathroom tiles Learn how its warm grey tones and natural veining can elevate both contemporary and traditional interiors, and discover low-maintenance porcelain alternatives that offer the same look
Next, we delve into the charm of small tiles for kitchen splashbacks If you’ve been hesitant about the extra grout, don’t worry our article provides tips on how to seal and maintain grout so you can enjoy a stunning feature splashback without the fuss
For those looking to upgrade their living spaces, we share our top picks for occasional chairs from GlobeWest, Living Edge, and RJ Living.
Whether you're after sleek modernity or timeless elegance, these versatile pieces can effortlessly enhance any contemporary home
We hope these design insights help you create beautiful, functional spaces that you’ll love for years to come
MelissaLunardon
FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR
LOUNGE CHAIRS TO LOVE
Upholstered in luxurious velvet fabric, in a deep rich green called caper, the Sidney Peak Sofa Chair has a raised profile and plush cushions Designed with minimal details for a clean look this sofa chair is the ultimate for style and relaxation
The back of this chair is where it’s at The soft angular edges makes this chair want to stand out and not sit with it’s back to the corner The upholstery comes in 3 colour ways and would be perfect to curl up and read a book
RUDOLPH BY TRIT HOUSE
If this chair doesn't scream 90's glam, I don’t know what does! The butter leather upholstery with the polished stainless steel frame adds a touch of modernity to any space This chair would definitely be the talking point to any lounge area
HANK BY SATARA
SIDNEY PEAK BY GLOBE WEST
THE BENEFITS OF HIRING AN INTERIOR DESIGNER
you can make Engaging a designer before construction starts can save you countless headaches, rushed decisions, and ensure a smooth, well-organised process from start to finish
A Well Designed, Considered Home
Perhaps the greatest benefit of working with an interior designer is creating a home that not only looks beautiful but also works for your unique lifestyle. We consider your daily routines, future needs, and individual preferences to ensure your home is both functional and reflective of your personality Every element, from the layout to the finishes, is thoughtfully considered to enhance the way you live
NOVATION BUILD
Detailed Drawings and Colour Selections for Tender and Construction
As your interior designer, we provide detailed drawings and a comprehensive colour selection schedule These documents are crucial for going out to tender and obtaining quotes from multiple builders, ensuring you receive an accurate and realistic price for your project This detailed planning also helps your chosen builder order materials on time, reducing the likelihood of delays and costly variations
Streamline Your Construction Process
Working with an interior designer prior to construction allows you to thoughtfully plan and select all the essential materials, finishes, and fixtures for your project Together, we can design all the internal joinery for key areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry, and living spaces This collaboration results in a cohesive, functional, and aesthetically beautiful home tailored to your personal style and needs
By engaging an interior designer early on, you’re setting the foundation for a successful, stress-free renovation or build, resulting in a space you’ll love for years to come.
Tundra Grey is a stunning natural stone with warm grey tones and subtle veining, making it a favourite for kitchen benchtops and bathroom tiles in both contemporary and traditional homes. Its soft grey hues and natural movement bring warmth and sophistication, offering versatility that suits a wide range of interior styles.
In kitchens, Tundra Grey benchtops provide understated elegance, easily pairing with various cabinetry colours and finishes In bathrooms, it creates a serene, spa-like atmosphere when used for floors and walls
Be sure to seal your natural stone benchtop and splashback to ensure stress free cooking
For a more low-maintenance option, porcelain tiles that mimic Tundra Grey are ideal for bathrooms, offering the same beautiful look with easy upkeep. These tiles are durable, water-resistant, and simple to clean, making them a practical yet stylish choice.
Whether natural stone or porcelain, Tundra Grey’s timeless appeal ensures it will enhance any space for years to come
Its neutral warmth adds a touch of understated luxury to any room
TRANSFORMING A SHOWROOM
A STUNNING DESTINATION FOR KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS
We’re excited to share that we’ve been working with a national stone mason and joinery company to design and fit out their new kitchen and bathroom showroom After recently moving into a new space, this leading manufacturer approached us to create a destination where their clients could not only select stone for their benchtops and receive quotes for custom cabinetry, but experience a full end-to-end service design, manufacture, and installation of beautifully crafted kitchens, bathrooms, and bespoke joinery
The challenge? Working with an oddly shaped showroom space. Our task was to create an inviting layout that showcased two distinct
kitchen designs, two island benches, a fireplace, a walk-in robe (WIR), and two bathrooms, all within one cohesive showroom We worked closely with the client to ensure the space flowed seamlessly, while also showcasing their craftsmanship in each distinct zone
We developed 3D drawings to help visualise the project, ensuring every element of the client's vision was brought to life This collaborative approach allowed us to refine the design, ensuring each area complemented the others while maintaining a clear distinction between different product offerings.
TRANSFORMING A SHOWROOM
HOW TO USE SMALL TILES ON YOUR KITCHEN SPLASHBACK
WITHOUT THE FEAR OF GROUT MAINTENANCE
Consider Epoxy Grout
If you want low-maintenance living, epoxy grout is your go-to It’s stain-resistant and won’t absorb spills like traditional grout, making it ideal for busy kitchens While it may cost a bit more upfront, its durability and easy upkeep make it worth the investment
Create a Wow Factor
Small tiles add texture, colour, and intricate patterns that larger tiles simply can’t achieve Whether you choose handmade textured square tiles, arrange subway tiles in a herringbone pattern, a beautifully detailed splashback will create a striking focal point in your kitchen
Make It Easy to Maintain
Opt for a neutral grout colour to minimise the appearance of dirt, and make regular cleaning a breeze by using a mild cleaning solution With these simple steps, you’ll have a show-stopping splashback that’s as easy to maintain as it is beautiful
Love the look of small tiles but worried about all the grout lines in your kitchen splashback?
Don’t let that stop you! Small tiles like 100x100 zellige, penny rounds, or subway tiles (75 x 150mm) can create a stunning feature that transforms your kitchen into a design masterpiece While the extra grout may seem like a chore, there are ways to keep it looking fresh without the headache
Seal the Grout
Sealing the grout is a simple yet effective way to prevent food stains, grease, and grime from penetrating those tiny lines A good sealant creates a protective barrier, ensuring that stains sit on the surface and are easy to wipe away For best results, apply sealant after installation and reapply every 12 to 18 months
THEDESIGNJOURNAL
ML Interior Design is driven by a deep passion for creating timeless Australian interiors for real life Aussies Our team work closely with clients to articulate their vision and style where personality, form and function co-exist
If you are interested in working with us to help with your renovation, new build or furnish your home, we invite you to book in a Complimentary Design Call