The Natural Artisan // Issue 23

I S S U E 2 3 / / W E H E L P P E O P L E C R E AT E H E A LT H Y A N D B E A U T I F U L B U I L D I N G S

CLASSIC

S PA C E S

D E S I G N E R S // I N F L U E N C E R S // A R T I S A N S // R E N O VAT O R S

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LOVE THIS

Surround yourself with raw, natural materials and warm, touchable textures like The Beach House East Coast using ROCKCOTE FineCote see p.14

W E LC O M E ISSUE NO. 23 / CONTENTS 03 04 06

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WELCOME GLOBAL TREND REPORT THE PROJECT // THE CARLTON STREET HOUSE

BY DORNDESIGN THE DESIGN // THE BEACH HOUSE EAST COAST // DFJ ARCHITECTS THE INFLUENCER // 8FOOTWALLS + KAWA HEART STUDIO THE HOME // PERIMETER HOUSE BY ARCKE THE ARTISAN // BOB CAMERON ON SUSTAINABILITY

COVER PHOTOGRAPH NIC GOSSAGE CREATIVE + EDITORIAL DIRECTOR NINA DORN CREATIVEDIRECTOR@ROCKCOTE.COM.AU THE NATURAL ARTISAN MAGAZINE 18 MACHINERY ROAD, PO BOX 230, YANDINA, QLD 4561 PHONE: 1300 736 668 THENATURALARTISAN.COM INSTAGRAM @THENATURALARTISAN VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF ROCKCOTE WHILST ALL CARE IS TAKEN IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS PUBLICATION, THE PUBLISHER ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERRORS AND/ OR OMISSIONS @COPYRIGHT THE NATURAL ARTISAN / ROCKCOTE. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ROCKCOTE. THE NATURAL ARTISAN IS PRINTED ON ECOSTAR WHICH IS 100% RECYCLED UNCOATED PAPER. BY USING ECOSTAR OFFSET RATHER THAN A NON RECYCLED PAPER THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT WAS REDUCED BY: // 164KG OF LANDFILL // 24KG CO 2 AND GREENHOUSE GASES // 4,800 LITRES OF WATER // 243KM TRAVEL IN THE AVERAGE EUROPEAN CAR

NOTE

A New Year is synonymous with new beginnings. Here at The NaturalArtisan we decided on a conceptual refresh that allows us to share more products and projects from the ROCKCOTE range. After the craziness of the past year, more than ever we want our homes

to make us feel protected and restored - the interiors equivalent of a blissful yoga class. That doesn't mean isolating and bunkering yourself away from the rest of the world but quite the opposite - feeling the sun on your skin, enjoying the earth beneath your feet and drawing energy and inspiration from the nature that surrounds you.

In this issue we take a look at examples of where naturally good stuff is used to create stunning homes starting with the Carlton Street House by Dorn Design on p.6. Walls were rendered using ROCKCOTE Marrakesh to create a natural, tactile scheme that perfectly complements its minimalist interiors with a seamless textural foundation. Beach House East Coast on p.14 offers a completely different aesthetic with its coastal Mediterranean vibe, but again, the use of ROCKCOTE FineCote created a soothing and sensory space for guests to unwind and relax.

Close to ROCKCOTE's spiritual and manufacturing home is the Perimeter House by Arcke Architects - a beautiful family home where ROCKCOTE Lime Plaster was used with its natural variations and finishes to achieve a light, airy and peaceful home.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

NINA DORN AND THE ROCKCOTE TEAM

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

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ROCKCOTE EcoStyle in Pantone Illuminating Yellow

G LO B A L T R E N D

REPORT SCANDI STYLE

The city of Copenhagen plays host to 3 Days of Design every year, with numerous shows and

exhibitions that highlight the best of Danish design. Danish brand Hay unveiled its latest range of

furniture and homeware, in a pop-up co-working space installed inside Copenhagen's Lindencrone

Mansion. The exhibition comes in response to what Hay describes as the "shifting landscape of office environments", where employers are seeking to create more homely office settings to comfort

workers. "The spaces we have created for 3 Days of Design are about both living and working, and

perhaps the divide between those two parts of our existence is not so strict today," explained Rolf Hay, co-founder and creative director of the brand. "As we look to the future of design, we should consider that a balanced lifestyle sometimes means living where we work, and working where we live." We love the Palissade Lounge collection which includes a chair, ottoman and sofa in a stunning olive green. hay.com.au

COLOUR YOUR YEAR

In December Pantone announced its colours of the

year for 2021. They are PANTONE Ultimate Gray and

PANTONE Illuminating. Selecting two colours for only the second time in 22 years, Pantone described the chosen yellow and gray as independent but

complementary, representing a theme of unity and mutual support. Whereas PANTONE Illuminating is

bright and vivacious, PANTONE Ultimate Gray is firm and dependable, the marriage of which represents

strength, optimism, and fortitude following a markedly

challenging year. In architecture, this palette combining

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playfulness and solemnity has been used in social

LOVE THIS

spaces, domestic spaces, care spaces, and more to

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White.

communicate similar themes of resilience and

positivity. Don't forget that ROCKCOTE EcoStyle can be tinted to match the Pantone colours of the year!

ONE STOP SHOP

At ROCKCOTE we don't believe that choosing the right paint should mean a compromise between

product performance and your health. That’s why we created EcoStyle Paints: Premium paints that last the distance, with the added benefit of being non

toxic and very low VOC. EcoStyle Paints are 100% Australian and 100% acrylic, making them ultra

tough, super low maintenance and easy to clean.

What's more, EcoStyle Paints don't support nasties like stains, dirt, mould, mildew or fungi! Being non toxic means they are completely free from

dangerous chemicals and solvents and it also means you don't have to paint then wait to enjoy your

space, EcoStyle allows you to paint and occupy the same day!

ROCKCOTE EcoStyle in ALPACA SW 7022

Tr e n d R e p o r t / T h e N a t u r a l A r t i s a n

TOUGH STUFF

CONCRETE: art design architecture is a major exhibition exploring innovative ways that

concrete is being used by artists, designers and architects in Australia in the 21st century.

The exhibition includes 21 artists, designers

and architects from across Australia and brings together products, projects and works of art that reflect many of the current preoccupa-

tions with concrete within contemporary art, design and architecture in Australia. You can

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achieve a similar look using ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Concrete. jamfactory.com.au

LOVE THIS

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh (Polished Finish) in Concrete.

ROCKCOTE QUICK RENDER RANGE

ROCKCOTE Quick Render range are pre-blended cement renders. The

quick render range exhibits minimal drying shrinkage and creates a reliable

surface for over-coating with ROCKCOTE acrylic textures and paints. Ideal for use in harsher drying conditions where a slower drying rate is required.

It offers unrivalled product quality and consistency which means no

surprises on site and is ready to over coat in 48 hours. Apply by hand - quick and easy to apply off the trowel, which keeps you moving quickly. Or by machine- all ROCKCOTE Quick Renders are suitable for machine application so you can ramp up your productivity.

PHOTOGR APHY: HENRY BOURNE

PLASTER CAST

Maison Margiela has reopened with a new store developed by Studio Anne Holtrop. At the London store the defining structures of

architecture – walls and columns – appear as detached objects.

Artisanal furnishings and the hand-cast plaster walls are made in fabric lined moulds and retain the memory of fabric texture. Natural plaster

walls are rendered in soft, fluid lines and curves reflecting the folds and movement of fabric and cloth. The plaster’s natural tonality further

echoes the signature white of Maison Margiela. To nail a similar finish on your project consider using ROCKCOTE Lime Plaster.

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LOVE THIS

maisonmargiela.com/au

ROCKCOTE Lime Plaster in Natural Colour with a Brush Effect

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

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6

LOVE THIS

The light well that connects living spaces used ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White

The Project / The Natural Artisan

THE LIGHT

GARDEN T H E C A R LT O N S T R E E T H O U S E , M A N LY, N S W

The Carlton Street house utilises clever voids and an internal garden to maximise daylight and dramatically increase the sense of space in this beachside semi-detached dwelling in Manly. A collection of natural materials in soft tones bring comfort, charm and an enduring quality.

PHOTOGR APHY: NIC GOSSAGE

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT THE

possible by widening the living area,

neighbourhood. The new work is discreetly

absorbing an under-utilised side access

located to the rear of the property to

The project brief was to enhance quality

and introducing an internal light garden

minimise impact from the street, and the

of the property and overall size for use as

and other voids to maximise daylight,

pitched roof form and use of traditional

a short-stay rental. We were able to

visually increasing the sense of space.

materials such as facebrick and timber

P R O J E C T A N D B R I E F. . .

improve live-ability whilst adding significant value through construction of an additional level and increase sense of

WHERE IS THE PROPERTY

LO C AT E D A N D H O W D O E S I T

cladding are consistent with buildings in the precinct.

RESPOND TO THE LOCAL SURROUNDINGS?

WERE THERE SPECIFIC

are a number of inherent design challenges these dwelling typology. They typically

The house is located in Manly, NSW and is

FOR THE OWNERS?

lack natural light, have minimal outlook

the first in a row of terrace houses within a

Unusually the dwelling was designed as a

and poor natural ventilation and as a

heritage conservation area. The renovation

city-hop style destination for the client.

result feel small and cramped. Our goal

and design of the building had to respect

Based in London, the clients were looking

was to make the house feel as large as

the local character of the surrounding

for a house to call home for extended

space to this narrow terrace house. There

DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

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M E E T T H E A R C H I T E C T: B R A D L E Y D O R N // DORNDESIGN How do you begin a project?

I like to ask clients how they live, what they enjoy doing and what they are passionate about. It is amazing how many clues you gain from clients by casual conversation

about life and what is most important to us as individuals.

What is unique about your architecture?

I am interested in social characteristics in architecture. This could be how spaces

relate to promote interaction and nurture communication. I also consider the

impacts of material selection - are they local and are they ethically sourced?

How do you define great design?

Great design challenges our expectations.

If we don’t extend ourselves beyond what is the 'expected' outcome how are we to reach new conclusions?

visits to Sydney. The house was to have

and light-garden walls to further highlight

elegant, light-coloured finishes yet with a

the fine texture and warmth of the material.

touch of warmth to suit the house's city

What is the most important factor in

and beachside setting. In-between visits,

Collaboration and an understanding that

HOW DOES THE DESIGN AND

FUNCTIONALITY OF THIS HOME

achieving a successful outcome?

the house was to be short-term rented via Airbnb. This was an interesting brief and

ENHANCE QUALITY OF LIFE?

one person alone does not possess all

prompted us to think about long-term

The dramatic shift away from a previously

the answers.

durability finishes and materials.

narrow space has transformed the

What are the daily essentials that you

ROCKCOTE MARRAKESH WAS

Make time for yourself. It is so underrated

W H AT D R AW S YO U A S A N

can’t live without?

how important freetime is in order to create the mental framework to analyse, process and effectively utilise your best thoughts..

liveability of this home. The S P EC I F I E D I N T H E P R OJ EC T.

A R C H I T EC T TO T H E S E N AT U R A L FINISHES AND WHY?

introduction of a light-garden and stair voids that bounce light through the middle of the building whilst loft-style pitched ceilings upstairs create a vastly improved sense of space. Glass louvre

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh provided a natural,

windows facing away from the side

durable, non-painted surface that we

boundary capture the prevailing sea

applied to feature areas of the project.

breezes and ventilate the house as well as

As designers of the built environment, I

The finish created a beautiful refined

providing a degree of outlook across the

believe we need to deliver robust solutions

texture that contrasted well with other

roof tops rather than directly onto

that endure beyond our lifetime. We are the

finishes such as facebrick, white walls and

adjoining properties.

front of the design process and we have

ceilings and timber joinery. In particular

to stand by our convictions. Identify the

we selected surfaces that received

then expand in an endless suburban

important decisions and make them count.

deflected sunlight such as the stairwell

sprawl and achieving quality housing in

Please tell us about your ethos and approach...

I believe cities need to contract rather

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

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LOVE THIS

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh offers a warmth of tone and texture to the home's living spaces.

18 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 23

" T H E R O C K C O T E M A R R A K E S H C R E AT E D A R E F I N E D T E X T U R E T H AT C O N T R A S T E D W E L L W I T H T H E OT H E R C H O S E N F I N I S H E S . "

The Design / The Natural Artisan

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LOVE THIS

The stairway walls were rendered in ROCKCOTE Marrakesh to create an inviting and tactile ascent to upstairs.

"SUNLIGHT HIGHLIGHTS THE FINE TEXTURE AND WARMTH OF T H E R O C KC OT E R E N D E R . " denser inner-city environments close to work and

W H AT D O YO U C O N S I D E R I M P O R TA N T

services is paramount to supporting sustainable,

I N C R E AT I N G A F U N C T I O N A L H O M E ?

liveable cities for the future. This type of housing

Strength in any design should start with the most

renewal project delivers this social agenda by

utilised areas of the home - the kitchen, living and

providing long term opportunity for families to live

lounge and how these connect with the outdoor

and stay close to the city in more suitable

environment. Get that right and everything flows

accommodation.

from there. Also don’t forget about comfort; both

WHICH DESIGN ELEMENTS SUPPORT SIMPLE LIVING IN THIS PROJECT?

The main living area is configured to maximise

tactile comfort and environmental performance.

Nobody likes a cold house in winter.

W H AT OT H E R B U I L D I N G M AT E R I A L S

access to the external garden. The kitchen and

WERE USED IN THIS HOME?

living area opens towards the patio and landscaped

We used a number of other natural materials

garden to improve flow from inside to outside and

including honed grey-marble floor and oak timber

create a green backdrop . The central light-garden

flooring. Externally the use of dry-pressed bricks

provides increased daylight to the living area and

and vertical cedar cladding and limestone paving

sliding sashless windows can open up to promote

gives the building an enduring quality within a

cross-ventilation.

modest budget.

12 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 23

DREAM TEAM A R C H I T E C T:

BRADLEY DORN DORNDESIGN.COM. AU BR AD@DORNDESIGN.COM. AU

BUILD:

DINKUM BUILDING DINKUMBUILDING.COM.AU

J OI N E RY:

CAPTIVE C A PT I V EC A B I N E TM A K I N G .

COM. AU

RENDERING:

TRIPLE A RENDERING 0478 077 396

LANDSCAPING:

LENNONS LANDSCAPES PAU L@ L E N N O N SL ANDSCAPES.COM. AU

S TAY:

AIRBNB.COM

The Project / The Natural Artisan 1.

6 2.

3.

4.

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White. Natural, graceful and versatile, Marrakesh is a traditional lime plaster that allows the artisan to create a wide range of decorative and functional finishes.

Drawing on traditional Tadelakt and Moroccan plaster finishes, Marrakesh delivers a smooth, lustrous look with an unrivalled soft, elegant appearance for decorative finishes.

5.

6.

6.

6.

8.

TH IS PAGE 1.

2.

Danish-style Architects Wall Lamp in black,

5.

Wategos No. I print, $59.95, oliveetoriel.com

$499, creativelightingsolutions.com.au

6.

Jord Modular Sofa, $18,000,

Round Chrome Jumper Valve Wall Top Assembly Taps, $199, meir.com.au

3.

Paper Porcelain vase, $173, hayshop.com.au

4.

Gianna Hanging Succulents, $169 for a set of 3, ozdesignfurniture.com.au

7.

fredinternational.com.au 7.

Marimekko Kivet blanket $255, marimekkocom.au

8.

ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Natural White, rockcote.com.au

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

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The Design / The Natural Artisan

N AT U R A L

BEAUTY

T H E B E AC H H O U S E E A S T C OA S T, B A L L I N A , N S W It's no surprise that the creative genius behind the hugely successful Farm at Byron were going to nail their next foray - this time into boutique accomodation Situated quietly on a picturesque headland it charms guests with an easy breezy coastal aesthetic and beautiful natural materials.

P H OTO G R A P H Y: LY N D E N FO S S

16 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 20

The Design / The Natural Artisan

6

LOVE THIS

ROCKCOTE Natural Materials are made with pure ingredients and free from synthetic nasties and toxins

The Design / The Natural Artisan

EMMA – YOU AND HUSBAND TOM

HOW HAVE YOU RESPONDED

BY RO N BAY – C A N YO U T E L L U S

AND HOW HAVE THEY SHAPED

WOWED US WITH TH E FARM I N

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE BRIEF AND ETHOS OF THE BEACH HOUSE EAST COAST?

TO THE LOCAL SURROUNDINGS THE FEEL OF THE PROJECT?

renders which really overall added the biggest transformation, old inconsistent bricks covered by this beautiful beachy finish. Also using natural Australian

We worked with local Ballina Coastcare

hardwood timbers worked beautifully with

and Dunecare to ensure the gardens

the renders for a relaxed beachside feel.

Yes indeed! We felt we had land

would be in keeping with the local

sustainability and community covered

vegetation. The coastal foliage helped us

with the creation of our project The Farm

to define the colour palette we chose

and wanted to create a sister property

FINISHES INSIDE?

and so it all worked seamlessly with

that had consideration around the area of

We also used the ROCKCOTE FineCote

the environment.

render on the inside to add consistency

ocean sustainability, continuing to explore YOU DISTRIBUTE SOME OF THE

the connection to nature and incorporating an element of raising awareness and somehow contributing back to our planet. Oceans and coastal landscape are an important part of the natural environment.

BEACH HOUSE’S PROFITS TO

E N V I R O N M E N TA L C AU S E S E AC H YE AR; CAN YOU TELL US MORE

A B O U T T H AT A N D T H E C AU S E S

T H AT A R E I M P O R TA N T TO YO U ?

We are excited that at the end of this year

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y A N D E N V I R O N M E N TA L LY S O U N D P R A C T I C E I S I M P O R TA N T TO YO U - H O W D I D IT SHAPE THIS PROJECT?

In terms of design, we looked to the natural environment surrounding The Beach House for inspiration and to gain a sensibility, but we also wanted to give back with this project, so we created an environmental trust that will contribute to local sustainability causes.

With every function or event booked, a contribution will be made to the trust that could then be allocated to a local environmental need. This will all work so that the more successful The Beach House is, the more people and organisations that book the space, the more contributions we can potentially contribute to the environment needs.

The Beach House will have had a full year of operation and we will be able to tally the first handouts! Our ambassadors are Positive Change for Marine Life, Ballina Coastcare and Australian Sea Bird Rescue.

THE BEACH HOUSE REPRESENTS A BALANCE OF LIFESTYLE

A S P I R AT I O N , S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y AND ARTISAN SKILLS. HOW ACHIEVABLE WAS THIS?

It’s a collective achievement, it’s having a vision, then taking into consideration the natural environment in terms of colours and materials of the natural surrounds, working with talented artisans, companies and tradesmen that are happy to consider incorporating natural products that are reflective of the surrounds and then marrying it all together. The more consideration and planning up front the

W H AT WA S T H E T I M E SC A L E FO R

better the outcome and most importantly

Approximately 18 months.

Anything is possible with the right team

THE BUILD?

the ‘feel’ of the end product or place. and products.

YOU USED ROCKCOTE FINECOTE R E N D E R O N T H E P R OJ EC T. H O W

W H AT A R E SO M E U N I Q U E

OVERALL AESTHETIC?

The old buildings had a complete face lift

WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE

with the natural ROCKCOTE FineCote

Coastal barefoot sophistication.

16 The Natural Artisan

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F E AT U R E S O F T H E P R OJ EC T ?

issue no 20

ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL

and texture, and we particularly love the natural Australian Sandstone crazy paving.

WERE THERE ANY BUILDING CHALLENGES?

There were some challenging irregular roof lines that we had to work! But the biggest challenge is the close proximity to the ocean and the obvious effects of the harsh coastal weather. This led us to use products that have longevity and low maintenance in this environment.

WH ICH PARTS OF TH E PROJ EC T ARE YOU MOST HAPPY WITH?

The overall aesthetic has helped to create a very relaxed and natural environment for guests to enjoy and really is the ultimate barefoot board room or retreat.

W H AT I S T H E V I S I O N FO R T H E BEACH HOUSE EAST COAST?

To create a relaxed beach house with an element of barefoot sophistication for local businesses to use for corporate functions or retreats to be in situ to appreciate the coastal environmental surrounds, take time out to regenerate and restore and in turn be conscious of the beauty of the coastal environment, their potential impact in the past and then a consideration of how they could positively contribute towards a healthier planet in the future.

" R O C K C O T E F I N E C O T E H E L P E D C R E AT E A C O A S TA L B A R E F O O T S O P H I S T I C AT I O N V I B E "

The Design / The Natural Artisan

" W E U S E D R O C KC OT E F I N EC OT E O N I N T E R I O R S TO A D D C O N S I S T E N C Y A N D T E X T U R E . " DREAM TEAM A R C H I T E C T:

D FJ A R C H I T E C T S D FJ . C O M . A U

BUILD:

FORTY FOUR CONSTRUCTIONS FORTYFOUR.COM.AU

INTERIORS:

AVENUE T WENT Y T WO ENQUIRIES@AVENUE TWENTYTWO.COM

RENDERING:

NORTHERN RIVERS RENDERING 0423 644 058

C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R : EMMA LANE

S TAY:

T H E B E A C H H O U S E E A S TC OA S T. C O M

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LOVE THIS

The soft, natural finish of ROCKCOTE FineCote was used to reflect the natural beauty of the coastal surrounds.

28 1 2 The Natural Artisan

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issue no 1 29 0

The Influencer / The Natural Artisan

WORKS OF

HEART 8FOOTWALLS + K AWA HEART STUDIO D E E TA N G A N D D E S M O N D S W E E N E Y

This creative couple are the big hearts behind Kawa Heart Studio (a studio space and creative service), and 8footwalls (art and murals). We chat to them about their creative passions and how they juggle and relish family life at their beautiful Californian bunglaow in Fremantle.

WORDS: NINA DORN

DESMOND, TELL US ABOUT

watercolour with a nostalgic subtle fade.

C R E AT I V E B AC KG R O U N D?

DOES SOCIAL MEDIA HELP YOU

8 FO OT WA L L S W H AT WA S YO U R I’m a sign painter by trade which led to

F I N D C O L L A B O R AT I O N S?

props painting and five years as a scenic

The large projects 8footwalls have

artist for the Australian Opera. This

acquired come via interior designers

included faux finishes with plaster and

working with architects who find us

cement for large sets and background

primarily on Instagram however print

painted murals. The skill set that these

media still provides valuable publicity.

experiences developed transferred seamlessly over to the commercial realm and opportunities arose to work on the interiors of some of Sydney’s best venues in collaboration with some incredible architects and designers, hence 8foot walls was born.

DEE, HOW DID KAWA HEART S T U D I O S TA R T ?

Kawa Heart Studio began as a very natural progression away from my homewares business two years ago. When we first moved back to Western Australia, I knew that I was ready to sell the brand

YOU LOVE L ARGE FRESCO WALL

Kawaiian Lion (that I had created and

FAVOU RITE WALL FI N ISH E S TO

was separating myself from being

A R T – W H AT A R E YO U R

designed for the last 6 years) as I felt like I

PAI NT ON?

emotionally invested in the label. So Kawa

Natural Lime plaster is my favourite finish

Heart was born and became the present

to create murals and ageing effects. The

representation of where I was creatively

artwork ends up looking like a large-scale

and spiritually and how I wanted to shift

my focus towards interiors and a soul journey for the future.

Our first born daughter Kawa passed away in 2017 so it just seemed most apt to name our studio space in honour of her.

The ‘heart’ also represents and is in honour of her heart that beats on and on.

(Her heart was donated to a small child in 2017 and from what we know is alive and well today).

W E K N O W YO U LOV E N AT U R A L

M AT E R I A L S - T E L L U S M O R E . . .

I really love natural fibres. I can’t handle anything synthetic. I am always bitterly disappointed when I find a beautiful vintage item of clothing or homewares and it has a small amount of polyester in it. As beautiful as it is I always have to let it go. Having worked as a homewares designer for a long time and as an interiors stylist I am drawn to soft natural and worn in pieces. I am really obsessed

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

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IN THEIR SHOES A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DEE TANG + DESMOND SWEENEY 6am Dee: Wake up and hit the beach for a little walk and quick dip

Des: Sleep for extra half hour til Dee gets back and get brekkie ready

7am Dee: Brekkie with the babies, make school lunch, brush hair - chaos time!

Des: Breakfast, brush daughter's hair,

clean-up, hand grind coffee ritually, drink with finding patchwork quilts from bygone

This allowance means I am able to

eras where people have been softening the

make less yet more thoughtful posts in

cotton and linen for 50 or 60 odd years. I

the grid and also it makes stories more

love old worn tees that are threadbare. I

fun to play around with. It's a medium I

like linen that's been trashed and washed

really enjoy using for story telling and

a million times. The softness from time

creating interest and engagement.

and wear is something you can’t duplicate and the hand feel of natural materials on your skin is unbeatable.

I also have a somewhat crazy affection

YOU HAVE A L ARGE FOLLOWING O N I N S TAG R A M . W H AT S E T S YOU R CONTENT APART ?

for natural cane — which I swear began

All the content we post is created here in

long before the current trend! I often pick

our own space. We generally only post

up second hand pieces from the local flea

photos we have taken, edited and written.

market or Gumtree or I have been guilty of

Dee often pours over quotes and good

picking stuff off from the side of the road.

reads to find a wise quote that matches back with the image.

HOW HAS SOCIAL MEDIA

We always try to use an authentic voice

SHAPED YOUR GROW TH?

and tone which translates across to

Social media has been integral to the

followers. There’s often a disparity

growth of Kawa Heart Studio. What was

between the brand/insta handle and the

intended as an interiors/soul journey has

actual person who is behind it. We always

become a bit of a journal of our renova-

think - if someone was to meet us in

tions and home space and studio where

person then we want our feed to be a true

we have come to shoot and create

representation of who we are and what we

content. I am very fortunate that I get

create. It is really important to find your

tagged a lot in posts and stories from all

own style with the way you write, how you

the brands and influencers who shoot in

express and present your content. It’s

the Kawa Heart Studio. and since it's

something that can takes years to hone

considered a service rather than a product

but its worth trying and to keep evolving.

I find now that I can take a more relaxed approach to posting as I don't have to

/

fella to park

9am Dee: School drop offs

Des: Head to the park by way of coffee

shop down by the river

10am Dee: Start work, check emails, stories, post.

11am Dee: Tidy and style studio to be ready for shoots

12am Dee: Work on passion project

Des: Head home and start making lunch and get ready to start work.

1pm Dee: Lunch and swap over to care of the little people

Des: Gather my things and walk out to my studio which is our old converted garage.

Emails then start drawing or painting.

3pm Des: School pickup - this changes around and then general interruptions from little visitors in the studio.

5pm Des: Join family for dinner, prep and

eat, cleanup. I bathe the kids and get them ready for bed and stories.

8pm Dee : More emails and catch up on

any other creative work. update website.

Des: Finally get kids to sleep , sometimes.

10pm Dee: Pass out after Desmond tells

me what his favourite thing he did with our babies was during the day. (I have asked

him this every night for the past 7 years since we’ve had small humans)

Des: Catch up on video tutorials or reading

for next hour or so. Pass out. Then wake

several times to wails, cries or dada calls for next 7 hours. Start again.

constantly try to push products.

22 The Natural Artisan

said coffee and get ready to take the little

issue no 23

" L I M E P L A S T E R I S M Y FAV O U R I T E F I N I S H TO C R E AT E M U R A L S A N D A G E I N G E F F E C T S " Above: Dee and Rafa pop in to see

Desmond at his studio,

conveniently situated at the

bottom of the garden.

Left:

Desmond hanging one of his

series of "Endless Time & Tide"

prints.

Far left: Some of Kawa Hearts cushions

on display in their original

1941 California style

bungalow.

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

23

The Home / The Natural Artisan

SUNNY

DELIGHT P E R I M E T E R H O U S E , PA D D I N GTO N ,Q L D

A beautiful Queenslander finds prestige and purpose with an architectural renovation by Arcke Architects.

WORDS: NINA DORN

// P H OTO G R A P H Y: S COT T B U R R O U G H S

PLEASE TELL US A LITTLE

to the ground level was achieved through

The stately Queenslander purchased by

protects but also erodes into permeable

the family exhibited good bones but was

sections, providing glimpses to vistas

compromised, especially on the lower lev-

adjacent and beyond adding depth and

el by a series of ad-hoc renovations that

intrigue.

ABOUT THE BRIEF?

lacked cohesiveness. The brief

the articulation of a lower level wall that

A north-facing, double height void

encompassed practical elements but also

features over the dining room and large

emotive aspects such as feeling “light and

sliding windows completely open to the

airy” and “being on holiday.”

elements or close down as required.

The lap pool is positioned to reflect the

WHERE IS THE PROPERTY

LO C AT E D A N D H O W D O E S I T RESPOND TO THE LOCAL SURROUNDINGS?

dynamic interplay of light into internal spaces and a window seat is the perfect spot to recline. The kitchen is flanked by the dining room to one side and a covered

The project is located in Paddington,

garden on the other, creating a sense of

Brisbane. The design evolved as a unique

being enveloped by greenery.

response to the site. A perimeter wall that establishes a new procession of entry and contained garden courtyards was the

R O C KC OT E C R E AT E D A B E S P O K E COLOUR FOR THE PROJECT -

starting point for this design. The original

CAN YOU TELL US MORE?

Queenslander was raised and relocated on

As the rendered blockwork wall wraps the

site. The key architectural intervention of

perimeter of the entire house, it was very

bringing living spaces and kitchen down

important to achieve a balance between

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

25

The Home / The Natural Artisan

T H E A P P L I C ATO R A R I A L // R E N D E R REVOLUTION

Tell us a little about your business...

At Render Revolution, I handcraft

decorative finishes using timeless

natural materials. I have an affinity with skilled crafts and enjoy working with clients to achieve traditional and

contemporary decorative finishes.

You use ROCKCOTE in many of your projects, what are the benefits?

Apart from buying Australian I find the

products are well suited to our climate.

The base coats and primers are second to none for organic finishes. The

pre-mix buckets are convenient and easy to use.

Which ROCKCOTE products did you use and how did you apply them?

I used ROCKCOTE Lime Plaster with an oxide blend and sealed with

ROCKCOTE Repel. I burnished and closed off with a Venetian and

DREAM TEAM DESIGN:

ARCKE ARCKE.COM.AU

BUILD:

BLUEBIRD DESIGN & BUILD BLUEBIRDDB.COM.AU 07 3 076 3217

RENDERING:

RENDER REVOLUTION RENDERREVOLUTION. COM.AU 0 411 110 145

6

LOVE THIS

Japanese Trowel giving a semi burnished effect.

Any tricks with the application?

Yes, part of the beauty when working

with oxides and natural materials they

will display a natural patina over time. To achieve this the oxides are soaked and then blitzed with a Bamix blender

before mixing with the ROCKCOTE

Lime Plaster. Using a combination of a Japanese Nimikishi and Venetian

trowel burnishing techniques created the organic finish .

What are your favorite aspects of the ROCKCOTE products?

Using the ROCKCOTE Natural

ROCKCOTE Lime Render was chosen for a low maintenance exterior finish.

Materials Range, you cannot go past

the eco-friendly, sustainability aspect, particularly for your health and the environment. I have ROCKCOTE

Marrakesh throughout my home and love the relaxed ambient vibe.

26 The Natural Artisan

/

issue no 23

" W E L O V E T H AT R O C K C O T E H A S T H E O R G A N I C N AT U R A L V A R I AT I O N S A N D I S M A N U FA C T U R E D I N Q U E E N S L A N D. " colour, tone and texture. We asked

now allows a seamless transition into the

SE Qld there is really no other way to live.

ROCKCOTE to provide us with colour

yard and has activated a part of their site

Gardens and green spaces are known to

samples to complement the warmth of

that was previously under-utilised.

reduce stress and increase wellbeing.

WHICH ELEMENTS OF THE

W H AT OT H E R B U I L D I N G

other material elements. ROCKCOTE were

DESIGN SUPPORT SIMPLE LIVING?

very accommodating, providing numerous

Abandoning the idea of the ubiquitous

Recycled spruce ceiling panels create

test pieces until we were satisfied with the

“deck” is something that is embraced by

warmth and provide an excellent

colour and tone.

our practice. Instead of creating indoor

acoustics in quite a large open plan living,

dining as well as alfresco we design

kitchen dining area. Too frequently,

rooms that can open up or shut down to

OF USING ROCKCOTE?

acoustics are ignored in open plan homes

the elements, minimising footprint and

where the noise of everyday life can

We specified the ROCKCOTE Lime Render

maximizing liveability. Flexibility becomes

bounce off too many hard surfaces like

which is a natural product that breathes

an important consideration in the very

glass and concrete.

as well as patinas naturally. As it’s a tinted

early stages of our designs. We believe a

render and not a paint, it does not require

“less is more” approach provides the best

out we’ve used warm timber veneers. In

the same maintenance as paint products.

outcome.

the bathrooms, old school terrazzo paired

the brick elements, polished concrete, natural timber and paint colours and

W H AT W E R E T H E A DVA N TAG E S

We also love that it has natural variations in the product and is manufactured in

WHICH DESIGN ELEMENTS DO

M AT E R I A L S W E R E U S E D?

In the kitchen and cabinetry through-

with cool toned ceramic tiles – recreating a holiday at home feeling.

Queensland.

YOU CONSIDER MOST

HOW DOES THE DESIGN AND

FUNCTIONAL HOME?

The importance of maintaining and

ENHANCE QUALITY OF LIFE?

PROJECT?

creating green space can’t be

One of the smallest gestures in terms

The client has described the improved

underestimated. We consider landscape

of footprint and cost is the daybed at

connection to garden and the blurred

as integral to all our designs early on,

entryway/bottom of the stairs. It creates

ambiguity between inside and out as being

expanding living areas into garden areas

endless moments of joy!

one of the best aspects of the design. It

and vice versa. We’re very lucky that in

I M P O R TA N T I N C R E AT I N G A

FUNCTIONALITY OF THIS HOME

28 The Natural Artisan

/

issue no 23

W H AT I S YO U R FAVO U R I T E ASPECT OF THE FINISHED

The Home / The Natural Artisan

1.

6 ROCKCOTE Lime Plaster is a fine grained lime 2.

plaster for internal or external use. ROCKCOTE Lime Plaster can be tinted to a wide range of colours using alkali resistant mineral pigments to achieve a range of natural colours and attractive patina effects. This versatile plaster can be used to create a wide range of finishes, from a classic float finish to artisan's decorative finish technique.

3.

4.

5.

5.

7.

6.

7.

8.

TH IS PAGE 1.

Caravane Siena Cushion, $216 for a set of 2,

5.

vavoom.com.au 2.

3.

Medium, $99, thedesigngiftshop.com

Aarna White and Gold Disc Chain Pendant,

6.

Mini Andes Rug, $325, pampa.com.au

$54, aksahomedecor.com

7.

Easton Lounge Chair in Red Brick, $2,300,

Lucia Vase in White / Terracotta, $18, ozdesignfurniture.com.au

4.

MENU 'Chunk of Concrete' Candle Holder

satara.com.au 8.

ROCKCOTE Lime Plaster, rockcote.com.au

Wakefield Concrete Pendant Light , $198, zanui.com.au

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

29

The Artisan / The Natural Artisan

M AT E R I A L

MASTER BOB CAMERON , ROCKCOTE FOUNDER

Being less bad is a compromise, not a solution. As an entrepreneur and visionary, nationally and internationally acclaimed for ROCKCOTE’s innovative “people friendly” products and commitment to sustainable and regenerative business practices for almost 20 years, Bob discusses whether sustainability is sufficient to address the environmental problems of our time...

P H OTO G R A P H Y: A L I C I A TAY LO R

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y: W H Y B E I N G

the present without compromising the

mostly about restriction and things that

ability of future generations to meet their

we shouldn’t do. As William McDonough

“Sustainability” has become one of the

own needs.” (The Brundtland Report, World

and Michael Braungart conceded in their

most common words associated with

Commission on Environment and

groundbreaking work, “Cradle to Cradle”

conserving our environment and natural

Development, 1987). But what has sustain-

(2002), this model of sustainability is

resources. Governments, companies,

ability meant in practice? It’s a modern

essentially flawed. It’s merely accepting

community organisations and individuals

debate and there are many people doing

that the best humanity can do is be less

the world over claim to embrace the

great things under the banner of sustain-

bad and therefore destroying the planet a

principles of sustainability in an attempt

ability. We had to start somewhere.

little more slowly.

LESS BAD IS NO GOOD

to solve a myriad of problems associated

But I believe that when we embarked

WHY IS BEING LESS BAD STILL

with the impact of humans on the

on the road to sustainability, we had an

environment – air and water pollution, the

intention well beyond what it has become.

NO GOOD?

destruction of ecosystems, the overuse of

I invite you to think about that word, what

Because it defines environmental

scarce resources, poverty, and the list goes

it means to us, how it directs our actions

protection by destroying as little as

on. Many of these initiatives are well-in-

and whether those actions are reflective

possible. While this appears to be a noble

tentioned. But are they addressing the real

of our original intentions. Sustainability

intention, in reality, it creates the opportu-

problem? Early definitions of sustainability

has generally taken the platform that we

nity to avoid the real issues. For example,

demonstrated the intent of ensuring

need to use and consume less – decreased

by recognizing that a goal such as reduc-

“enough for all forever” (World Summit on

inputs and more efficient outputs in

ing the number of poisonous chemicals

Sustainable Development, 2002). This implies

business processes, using fewer poisonous

in a production process is an admirable

an objective of safeguarding the entire

chemicals, creating buildings with energy

objective, we are overlooking the fact the

system of biodiversity, for every species,

efficient lighting.

only real way to protect our environment

now and for all time. This objective is

On a personal level it has meant actions

reflected in another common definition:

such as taking shorter showers, colder

“Development which meets the needs of

showers, not eating meat, buying less. It’s

30 The Natural Artisan

/

issue no 23

and human health is to not use toxic chemicals at all.

6

LOVE THIS

A luxurious finish is achieved here using ROCKCOTE Marrakesh in Half Strength Backwater

issue no 20

/ The Natural Artisan

31

00 The Natural Artisan

/

issue no 20

The Artisan / The Natural Artisan

" W A L L S C O AT E D I N R O C K C O T E N AT U R A L M AT E R I A L S M E A N T H AT T H E Y C A N U LT I M AT E LY B E R E T U R N E D T O T H E E A R T H . " W H AT I S T H E A LT E R N AT I V E ?

As McDonough puts it, “our goal is a

a mistake.

Think about what would happen if we

accomplish by universally adopting the principles of collaboration alongside

delightfully diverse, safe, healthy and

aim, as McDonough says, for buildings like

competition, using life-friendly

just world – with clean air, water, soil and

trees and cities like forests – where the

chemistry and treating waste as a

power – economically, equitably, ecologi-

natural systems of nature don’t simply

resource, not simply recycling.

cally and elegantly enjoyed.” This is a very

inspire, but are fundamental to design

different intention to simply ensuring

and construction; where there is no waste

are separate from their natural environ-

we have enough resources to sustain the

because every item we produce has a

ment and as a result there is a disconnect

human population. Instead it is based on

purpose or can be returned to nature after

between the problems and the solutions.

abundance for “all species for all time.”

its initial purpose is exhausted.

Biomimicry recognises that all life is inter-

HOW THEN COULD THIS

IS IT POSSIBLE?

CHANGE THE LANDSCAPE OF

DESIGN, OF CONSTRUCTION, OF

Nature provides a proven model. Thanks

Sustainability can imply that humans

dependent and connected – this starting point inspires a whole new world of ideas and innovation.

to innovators such as McDonough and

I’ve always said there is no energy crisis.

Braungart, we have practical examples

There is no water crisis. There is no finan-

Under the sustainability model, we

of how this can work. It is the Ford motor

cial crisis. What we have is a crisis in logic

recognise that in all human systems, 85-

company’s Rouge Centre truck plant in

and imagination.

99% of what we produce is waste and aim

Michigan that, using the idea of buildings

to reduce or recycle that waste by design-

like trees, turned what could have been

Is a new word required? I don’t believe

ing buildings with energy efficient lighting,

a $50 million toxic wastewater clean-up

we need a new word – what we need is an

installing rainwater tanks and providing

into an innovative design solution that

intention to redesign the way we live on

separate garbage bins for recycling waste,

uses a 10 acre green roof, porous paving

earth. This intention converted to action,

for example.

and hedge rows to clean and convey

replaces the negative concept of being less

stormwater across the site. It is Canberra’s

bad with the proactive action of drawing

for solutions. It draws from McDonough

Hotel Hotel development where interior

from nature to inspire innovation that

and Braungart’s concept of upcycling and

construction materials include reclaimed

will ultimately deliver abundance for all

recognises one of Barry Commoner’s our

timber from a house, a basketball court

beings for all time.

laws of ecology, that there is “no waste

and the construction site itself; many of

in nature and there is no ‘away’ to which

the walls were coated in natural materials

things can be thrown” (The Closing Circle,

that can ultimately be returned to the

1971). In short, nature optimises, she

earth. and the furnishings were inten-

never compromises. We need to exercise

tionally repurposed. By adopting nature’s

caution in design and construction where

proven model, we practice biomimicry, or

solutions are about finding a compromise

“innovation inspired by nature” (Beny-

between competing interests – where

us, Biomimicry, 2009). Turning to nature,

we ultimately arrive at a position where

studying her best ideas and adapting them

everyone is equally unhappy. A new model

for human use as Benyus, McDonough and

of collaboration and cooperation is needed

Braungart suggest, provides the inspira-

based on the premise that if any design

tion to achieve so much more than simply

element only does one thing it is probably

being less bad. Just imagine what we could

BUILDING OUR COMMUNITIES?

The alternative model looks to nature

So where does all this leave sustainability?

REFERENCES

Benyus, Janine: Biomimicr y, 20 0 9 C o m m o n e r, B a r r y : T h e Cl osi n g Circle, 1971 McDonough, William & Braungart, Michael: Cradle to Cradle, 2002 McDonough, William & Braungart, Michael: The Upcycle, 2013 World Summit on Sustainable Development, 2002 The Brundtland Report, Our Common Future, World Commission on Environment and Development, 1987

issue no 23

/ The Natural Artisan

33

Location: La Bella Cellar, Gold Coast QLD Photography: Adam Farrugia Applicator: Southern Cross Rendering Products: ROCKCOTE Cerano & Repel.

To learn more about the ROCKCOTE product range or find your nearest Australian or New Zealand Distributor contact: PHONE: 1300 736 668 EMAIL: enquiries@rockcote.com.au

www.rockcote.com.au