REAL LIVING

This blog has now moved

2011-02-23T17:18:00.003+11:00

You will now find my blog here

Fab design show coming up!

2011-02-22T11:59:00.006+11:00

Don't miss the Magnolia Square fashion/design/homewares/craft show at Paddington Town Hall. It will be full of fabulous and inspiring things! Friday to Sunday, February 25, 26 & 27.

IMAGES FROM TOP:

This year's Magnolia Square poster.

Make Me Iconic This innovative homewares brand works with young, contemporary designers.

Crayon Chick Necklace of crocheted balls by Michelle Harvey.

SweetWilliam Tiny Camille dolls in matchbox homes.

(Images Magnolia Square)

We're loving: JanFeb 2011 issue

2011-01-21T14:40:00.000+11:00

Have you grabbed your copy of the JanFeb 11 issue of real living yet? We've had some lovely feedback, and many great comments about the cover. Apparently the palm tree cushions have been selling like hotcakes. And if you enjoyed the Australia Day shoot then you might like to pop over to the blog of the talented Katie Quinn Davies - What Katie Ate - to see some behind the scenes shots.

images real living

We're loving: Jan/Feb 2011

2011-01-10T14:11:00.004+11:00

Hello 2011! Hope you've had a wonderful and relaxing summer break. The real living team arrived back at work this morning and we had a look through the latest issue, which went on sale today, with fresh eyes. (We sent it to the printers just before the Christmas break.) We all still love the cover, and feel it's a bumper issue with lots of great homes and projects. What do you think?

image real living and chris warnes

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-24T09:00:00.002+11:00

One of the biggest challenges for a stylist at real living is to crack the Christmas card - first go. Well, I'm delighted to say that Sarah Ellison has done just that and produced one that we all loved. Isn't it gorgeous.

And I couldn't think of a better image to end the blog posts for this year. It's been great fun sharing some extra pics with you. Next year we have lots of exciting projects happening at real living so stay tuned (which you can now do via twitter, facebook and this blog - phew!).

As always, it's lovely to read your comments and feedback, so keep them coming.

And have a wonderful - and well-deserved - break over summer. See you next year!

image real living

More wreath love

2010-12-22T09:00:00.001+11:00

I don't ever quite remember wreaths being this popular. Or perhaps I just notice them more now that we did a feature on them in December issue, AND had all the staff make them for the Christmas issue. Anyway, we've had a few readers send through some of their projects. The book paper wreath is from Kate Spencer (Belinda Graham did a similar one, and the instructions are here), and Julia Somerhayes made one with her three-year-old daughter. Cute!

We're loving... Christmas 2010

2010-12-21T12:17:00.012+11:00

Right now I figure you're either running around like crazy trying to get organised for Christmas (ie, you're just like me!). Or you've got everything under control, and are ready for a little bit of rest and relaxation (lucky you!!!). So for our Christmas issue we've got the best of both worlds - last-minute wrapping ideas as well as table settings you'll want to use, PLUS some beautiful homes that will inspire you to get your place into holiday mode.

And for those of you who ordered your FREE customised cover of real living, thanks to Microsoft, you should have the issue in your hot little hands, too.

Oh, and don't forget to vote for your favourite wreath that the staff made especially for the issue.

images real living

Blissed out in Bali

2010-12-17T16:00:00.000+11:00

Chic style at the Bali Goddess Villa living room.

The Bali Goddess Retreats Villa.

Shopping in Seminyak - baskets galore.

An Indonesian cookery class at the Tugu Hotel, Canguu.

Amanda rested and relaxed at the end of her trip.

This year almost everyone from the real living office has had a holiday in Bali, including me! It's become a fast fave of anyone who not only wants to have a relaxing break but also fit in a bit of great shopping too. I thought you might enjoy hearing about the highlight of a recent trip by deputy chief sub Amanda Hemmings-Barbezat took.

"After a recent holiday staying at The Bali Goddess Retreats (BGR) in Seminyak I’m back in Sydney feeling relaxed, looking sun-kissed and weighing 2kg less than before I left. Obviously the daily Yoga sessions, beach walks and treks through the rice paddies paid off as I certainly didn’t do any dieting or detoxing – all those delicious banana fritters made sure of that! This holiday was about fun, fitness, fabulous food and adventure. Not to mention lots of pampering.

"One of the highlights of my stay was a guided bike ride through the region of Ubud, the cultural centre of Bali. Start at Lake View Restaurant in Kintamani for brunch, with its breathtaking views of Lake Batur and Mt Batur, before taking a gentle downhill meander through pretty mountain villages, stopping at temple compounds, bamboo forests and small farms – it’s a great opportunity to meet the locals.

"I have to admit that in between the cycling, swimming and downtime relaxing in the gorgeous surrounds of the BGR, aka “the sanctuary” (picture a laidback luxe colonial-style villa flanked by lush tropical gardens and emerald pool), I shopped ‘til I dropped – literally. It’s hard not to when the streets in Seminyak are lined with so many beautiful boutiques and artisan stalls, selling everything from designer clothes to ikat cushions. Head to Jalan Raya and Jalan Kunti in Seminyak, and the main high street in Legian for lots of great finds (I bought enough beads and bangles to accessorise the whole of Sydney!). Avoid central Kuta if you don’t want to be surrounded by stalls overflowing with Bintang t-shirts and street hawkers.

"If you love cooking, or just love eating, then taking part in an Indonesian cookery class is a must. This is the real deal: a traditional outdoor Balinese kitchen in the magnificent gardens of the Tugu Bali Hotel in Canggu. Don an apron and start chopping, stirring and crushing. Make sure you don’t eat too much for brekkie because you’ll have a five-course banquet to devour by midday. My fave dish was the Sambal Goreng Udang (marinated shrimps, potatoes and green peas). Yum!

"Talking of food, the home-cooked meals at BGR were amazing, as in mouth-watering (I’m still dreaming of their chicken and lychee curry), but there’s also lots of great eateries to experience beyond the goddess gates. For high tea, head to Biku. This charming and character-filled colonial-style tea room serves loose-leaf tea in pretty porcelain cups, and their carrot cake is to die for! Café Bali has a similar vibe – Colonial-style chic with a white woody interior and vintage chandeliers. For a memorable evening meal try Sarong – the decor is dramatic and decadent, and the menu is divine. And all are just a short stroll from the Bali Goddess Retreats – yay!

"Now, you really can’t visit Bali without booking in for a massage (or three) – I had one a day! I know, it’s indulgent but BGR does have its own dial-in masseuse so how could I refuse? There are also a heap of spas in the area that offer great treatments at the fraction of what you’d pay in Australia. I had the most relaxing 90-min holistic body massage at Chill. But I was positively floating after the Hot Stone treatment at the luxurious Prana Spa . Oh, it’s a hard life being a goddess…"

Bali Goddess Retreats holds 2 retreats per month. Guests can choose to stay for 5 days of action, with the opportunity to do back to back retreats for 12-14 day stays. Packages start from $1295. Visit www.baligoddessretreats.com for more info. And if you feel like grabbing a board and trying your hand at surfing, check out the Surf Goddess Retreats – www.surfgoddessretreats.com.au

Cool craft... xmas wreath

2010-12-03T08:34:00.001+11:00

Regular real living contributor Belinda Graham from The Happy Home blog is fast becoming the craft queen. After seeing a wreath she loved in Alice Flynn's home (December 2010 issue - on sale now), she decided to make her own - for a fraction of the cost. Read here for how she did it.

image the happy home

We're loving... The Living Room Pop-Up Shop

2010-12-01T15:03:00.006+11:00

I had to share this great little find. real living contributing stylist Rachel Brown has set up a pop-up shop with some fellow Australian designers. It's truly gorgeous and brimming with great gifts for Christmas presents. The only catch is that it's only on for one week - so get there while you can.

Here are the brands represented:
Attia Home
Puddin Head
The Lowercase
Taika

And here's where you can find "The Living Room":
84 William St, Paddington, NSW.

Until 5 December
Monday - Saturday 10am to 6pm
Sunday 12 to 6pm

images sam mcadam

We're loving: December 2010

2010-11-26T15:27:00.005+11:00

We've been getting some lovely feedback for our December issue, with some readers even sending in photos of their Christmas tree creations, inspired by stylist Briar Stanley's shoot. It's always wonderful to see how you have interpreted our ideas, so keep them coming.

The December issue is on newsstands now so grab a copy and get Christmas-ready.

images real living

Mag extras... My organised home

2010-11-10T14:30:00.005+11:00

It's always interesting to see how well Scandi style translates into Australian homes. Take this place by Melbourne resident Neil Kenna. He has Marimekko fabric on his walls and light coloured timbers throughout his home. It gives the space a lovely airy feeling, don't you think. Here are some additional images to those in the current on sale November issue.

images real living; photography derek swalwell

We're loving.... November 2010

2010-11-02T12:45:00.000+11:00

It's always interesting to see which features capture people's imaginations. I have to say that I've never had so many enquiries about a home as what I've had for Jane Hall's place in Melbourne. Well, not in a while. So, for those of you who are wondering, or about to ask:

The wallpaper in the bedroom is from Miljo. It is from the Revival range, called Tres Tintas, Dejavu.

The swing chair is from Ikea.

images real living

Mag extras... Quick smart reno

2010-10-22T09:31:00.000+11:00

For those of you with a good memory, you might recall that we have featured Susan Weil and Emma Hohnen's previous homes. They are certainly busy renovators. First was their rustic country getaway in Putty, NSW, and then their home on Sydney's northern beaches. Well, not long after we featured those places in real living they decided to relocate altogether. They moved to Bellingen and took on the task of renovating a rundown house for next to nothing. What I love about this project is that just by raising the roof they made so much difference to the sense of space in their place. Clever idea. Here are a few more pics of their latest home. All done recycling, reusing and restoring what they had and could find.

images real living (photography chris warnes; styling sam moiler)

Cool craft... Clever and creative idea

2010-10-20T11:14:00.002+11:00

One of the joys of being an editor is getting to work with such a creative bunch of people to bring you the mag each month. Case in point, Heather Nette King. Don't you just love this simple but clever idea of turning a flag into a bag!

image courtesy of heather nette king

Be inspired... in the garden

2010-10-19T09:02:00.000+11:00

I spent the weekend in the garden. I've got the cuts and bruises to prove it! Although I have to say it was really satisfying to see the garden take on some shape again after what seems like a long winter. I was inspired by the change of weather. I'm so happy that spring is here at last. I thought these images from The Little Vegie Patch Co might inspire you to create a vegie garden of your own.

images the little vegie patch co

We're loving... November 2010

2010-10-18T08:44:00.006+11:00

This morning our bundle of November 2010 issues of real living arrived in the office and it was lovely to see the cheery colours on the cover. From the yellow African headdress to the bright orange "living" on the masthead and sea blue greens in the table and chairs. Yes, summer is on its way. I hope you enjoy the issue. Stay tuned for our favourite features.

images courtesy of real living (photography chris warnes; styling zoey bourne milczarczyk)

Mag extras... Modern & bespoke

2010-10-15T13:34:00.001+11:00

There's a philosophy that says if you fill your home with objects that you love it will somehow all work. I don't always believe it holds true - as those who have come along to Domayne store talks would recall - but there are always exceptions. Take interior designer and furniture maker Tim Leveson's home that he has created with his wife Libby Knott. Above are some extra pics from the shoot that appears in the October issue of real living.

images real living (photography michael wee; styling jason grant)

Behind the scenes... Marie Nichols' moodboards

2010-10-15T09:31:00.000+11:00

One of our favourite contributing stylists Marie Nichols is heading back to the UK soon to get married. It's been a real treat to open her emails before a shoot and see what she has planned with her impressive sketches and moodboards. Here are some she did for the window treatment which appeared in the September 2010 issue.

images real living (photography maree homer; styling marie nichols)

Mag extras... Affordable artwork

2010-10-14T15:37:00.000+11:00

I'm so impressed with stylist Briar Stanley. I gave her what I thought was a bit of a tough brief. The concept was to kit out three rooms for just $5000. When you take into account the cost of beds, sofas, coffee tables and chairs - it's not a lot of money. But not only did Briar create the three rooms for less than $5000 but she did one better and came in UNDER budget - spending just $4000. There are lots of clever tricks she employed for being budget-focused. But Briar didn't compromise on style. In fact she found some great affordable artworks by Melbourne artist Kate Banazi. Here are some more of her works - and a cute and colourful notebook.

images real living (bedroom); kate banazi

Mag extras... Beautiful, budget bedroom

2010-10-14T08:36:00.002+11:00

Each month we're amazed by the quality of the projects that our readers send in. I thought I'd share a few more pics of Jasmine Kemp's home, which features on this month's "your thoughts" page. She lives in Baulkham Hills, NSW. Don't forget to email your projects into reallivingmag[at]acpmagazines.com.au

images jasmine kemp

We're loving... October 2010 issue

2010-10-12T12:08:00.004+11:00

We've just received an advance copy of the November issue of real living, which means that you've only got about a week left of the October issue on newsstands. The current issue has 220 pages - our biggest issue yet. There's entire "before & after" section with some great tips and advice as well as lots of inspiration from people who have transformed their homes. Love to know what you think.

images real living

Who do you think will win The Block?

2010-10-01T16:41:00.003+10:00

There's been quite a bit of debate in the real living office about who is going to win Channel Nine's The Block. Obviously, we ALL seem to have an opinion about the rooms. What's working. What's not. But we all did agree that Erin and Jake deserved to win the first week's challenge. What are your thoughts?

Oh, and check out the blog I'm writing for the show here.

images the block

We're loving... September 10 issue

2010-09-15T11:12:00.000+10:00

Just a reminder that the September issue of real living is only on sale for a few more days. Here's a taste of what's in the mag, including the Kitchen & Bathrooms 32-page special. Grab it while you can!

images real living

Don't forget to enter the Shutterbug comp!

2010-09-13T16:02:00.004+10:00

I've always loved photography and so I'm excited about being one of the judges of the Shutterbug competition being held by Harvey Norman Photo Centre. If you've got some photos of your kids then send them in because you could be in the running to win a $10,000 education savings plan. Such a great prize, don't you think! Can't wait to see your pics...

PS Go here for T&Cs.

images harvey norman photo centre

What we're loving: Andrea's orange & poppyseed cake

2010-09-03T10:06:00.001+10:00

One of the perks of working on a mag that has food pages is that we sometimes to get test the recipes in the office. When art director Chris Warnes goes to a shoot, he occasionally brings back sweet treats for us to sample if food editor Ali Irvine has made extra.

Well, more recently we have been spoilt by deputy art director Andrea Healy too. She's a great baker and her orange and poppyseed cake is to die for! I had to get her to share the recipe with you.

What we're reading: The outdoor shower

2010-09-02T09:36:00.001+10:00

Book review by deputy chief sub-editor, Amanda Hemmings-Barbezat:

The Outdoor Shower by Ethan Fierro (Storey Publishing. $34.99) Available through Capricorn Link

My husband Mark and I are currently working on the designs for our new-look home – we have grand plans for a full-on renovation next year: walls will be coming down, scaffolding going up and our lovely Victorian terrace will be transformed into a lighter, spacious and generally bigger and better home. I can’t wait! Although Mark and I can’t agree on the size of the kitchen, whether to have skylights or louvres, floorboards or carpets, the one thing we can agree on is to build an outdoor-indoor shower (that’s a shower in the garden with a roof). A necessity for a couple who live near the beach and spend their every spare moment swimming and snorkelling. Who wants sand and wet flippers traipsed through their new home? Not me!

So, in my search for the perfect outdoor shower design I came across this fab book by Ethan Fierro. Designer and builder Fierro starts by explaining how he grew up using an outdoor shower, a simple structure built by his father who drove posts into the ground in a large curve and then bended soaked cedar boards around the base. Fierro knows his stuff and he proves it with this comprehensive guide featuring a layman's approach to designing and building your own outdoor shower. Just what we need.

There’s lots of shower styles featured with lovely coloured photos and illustrations for each design – from the very rustic and simple – think hose with showerhead attached to a tree trunk; to the more solid, beach-style structures like the Maui-inspired thatched and bamboo hut shower; to beautiful sleek designs such as the Japanese cedar and slate example on page 99. I know the page reference as it just so happens to be my favourite – and luckily, M’s too.

The book also includes a handy guide to the essentials such as basic plumbing and structural requirements, how to light the pathway to your shower, along with suggestions for building materials, including stone, wood, metal, frosted glass blocks, earth, concrete, tile, stucco, and landscape vegetation. Fierro’s plans are environmentally sound and mindful of cost-saving techniques, with ideas for repurposing found and recycled materials. Brilliant!

With our sleek wood and slate design picked out and agreed upon, the only thing Mark and I need to decide on now is the shape of our showerhead. M wants square and I want circular. Hmmm. I think we’ll be tossing a coin for this one. Heads I win!

images courtesy of ethan fierro

Mag extras: Building from scratch

2010-09-01T09:56:00.003+10:00

Ever since we asked you to send through your before & after projects we've been amazed at the response. This home belongs to a reader in Sydney's Avalon. She and her husband project managed the entire rebuild of the 1960s house they bought. The transformation is quite unbelievable. Check it out in the September 2010 issue of real living. Here are some more pics from the shoot.

images real living and chris warnes

Behind the scenes: Floral garden shoot

2010-08-31T10:26:00.000+10:00

It's a bit of a running joke that since deputy ed Natalie Walton has started styling, she goes completely overboard with "makes" and projects. Her shoots are MAMMOTH. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. It's just we always wonder what she's up to next. Thought you might like to see this behind-the-scenes pic of her getting crafty on a Husqvarna Viking Emerald 122 sewing machine for the floral garden shoot. For the finished result, go to page 131 of the September issue of real living.

We're loving... September 10 issue

2010-08-30T09:10:00.006+10:00

If you're a regular reader you might recall that every September is our birthday issue. (real living has been in print for five years now - it's amazing how fast the time has gone.) And to celebrate and say thank you to our readers we have $55,000 worth of prizes to be won! Just turn to page 64 of the issue to find out all the details.

image real living and chris warnes

Be on the cover of real living

2010-08-27T10:27:00.002+10:00

Now this is a whole lot of fun - you've really got to try it. In conjunction with Microsoft Office 2010, real living has created a way for you to be on the cover of the Christmas 2010 issue. All you have to do is follow the steps in this link (adding your pic and writing your own coverlines) and you will receive a FREE copy of the issue. Love to see the pics you've chosen, too. Email reallivingmag[at]acpmagazines.com.au

image courtesy of real living

what's on your mind?

2010-08-25T10:11:00.002+10:00

We've had a great response to our new money worries page - but if you haven't written in yet don't be shy. After all, money worries (whether we like it or not) often occupy our thoughts. It's an opportunity to get FREE advice. Email mark@reallivingmag.com.au

image real living and chris warnes

We're loving... August 10

2010-08-02T12:10:00.006+10:00

We've just sent the September issue of real living to the printer, which means that you've only got two weeks left to grab your copy of the August issue. As we all tend to spend more time in the home in winter, we've included lots of great little projects, such as ways to get crafty with felt, tricks to making beautiful mantelpiece displays and three foolproof colour palettes for your living room. And have you made your pies yet?

images real living

Behind the scenes... winter wonderland

2010-07-23T09:49:00.006+10:00

This week we're in the thick of deadline, putting the finishing touches to our September issue. But recently we headed out to Carriageworks and had some fun on the ice. It was my treat to the team - no one knew where we were heading when we left the office. But soon everyone was laughing when they realised it was time to have some fun on the ice rink. The fairy floss went down well too!

We're loving... August 10

2010-07-19T14:08:00.004+10:00

Even though the August 2010 issue of real living has only just hit the newsstands today, we've already had some lovely feedback. (Subscribers often receive the mag a few days early - another great reason to hop over to Magshop!) We really put a lot of effort into putting some NEW ideas into this issue (that won't use a lot of time or money). A personal fave of mine was the felt noticeboards in the home of stylist Kirsten Bookalill. Love to know which feature or idea you liked the best.

image real living and chris warnes

Money talk

2010-07-13T12:28:00.003+10:00

I know, I know, I know – looking after your finances is probably one of the least enjoyable tasks to do in the home. But it’s probably one of the most important. So we’ve decided to get a finance expert on board to answer all those questions that might confound or confuse you. And we’ve made him promise to speak in everyday language so we can all learn something. After all, money talk shouldn’t have to be dreary – not when it can help you make your life easier!

So, if you have any money questions for our finance guru email them to reallivingmag@acpmagazines.com.au.

And keep an eye out for answers to your questions in an upcoming issue of the mag.

Ask away!

images real living and maree homer

Vote now

2010-07-12T14:10:00.000+10:00

As you can see from the images above we have been getting lots of great entries for our decorate to win a stylist competition. Head to the real living website now and vote for your favourite.

If you want to enter it’s not too late! Send your high resolution images to reallivingdecoratingcomp@acpmagazines.com.au

The winner will receive the services of a professional stylist for a day to get expert advice, tips and tricks. And the winner's home will also feature in real living.

For more details buy the latest issue of real living and visit the real living website for T&Cs.

The wonderful world of blogging

2010-07-05T17:12:00.007+10:00

Marie and her partner at their colourful Sydney apartment

Marie's office - so cute!

real living contributing stylist Marie Nichols is always inspiring us with her beautiful shoots. Her blog, whole lotta lovely , is full of great decorating ideas too.

whole lotta lovely takes us through the whole styling process. Marie shows us the idea (which is usually one of her gorgeous sketches), the moodboard and then the finished product. She makes having a beautifully styled home look so easy!
Don’t forget to check out real living's July issue - we feature Marie’s cute and colourful Sydney apartment.

Why did you start blogging? At the time I was working in house for a magazine. I wanted to share all the little things that I loved but that we couldn’t feature. I’m one of those annoying people that love what I do, so if I’m not prepping for a feature or on a shoot I’m blogging about it!

What are your all time favourite sites?
tales of a junkaholic
fabric of my life
gathering spriggs
a creative mint

What can we look forward to seeing on your site? Behind the scenes of shoots, more mood boards and all my fave finds from Sydney and back home in the UK.

images real living and chris warnes

Are you a budding decorator?

2010-06-29T16:20:00.004+10:00

If you fancy yourself as a budding decorator or stylist, we want to hear from you. Simply take some (high resolution) pics of your fave room at your place and send to reallivingdecoratingcomp@acpmagazines.com.au. All the entries will be judged by a panel (pictured above) who'll choose the winner. The winner will receive the services of a professional stylist for a day to get expert advice, tips and tricks. And the winner's home will also feature in real living. For more details buy the latest issue of real living and visit the real living website for T&Cs. Happy decorating!

We're loving... July 10 issue

2010-06-21T09:19:00.003+10:00

Have you made the transition to winter yet? It's not easy, is it! But to help you through these darker and shorter days we thought we'd inject a bit of happiness into the latest issue (its on newsstands today!). Enter "100 ideas for a happy home". I hope it puts a smile on your face, as well inspires you to try a few new projects at home this month.

image real living and chris warnes

Before & after: make an entrance

2010-06-18T17:04:00.009+10:00

The inspiration

Before

After

It's always exciting to hear from readers who we've inspired.

Katie from Sydney decided to jazz up her front door after reading the article on p48 in the May issue of real living.

We love the colour scheme and simplicity of her new front entrance. It just goes to show what paint can do!

images real living and chris warnes

We're loving: DIY and pippijoe

2010-06-09T15:56:00.009+10:00

DIY pippijoe sketch kit.

A collection of pippijoe fabrics.

"Laundry Birds" fabric available at realshopping.

Caitlin Klooger, the talented designer from textiles, homewares and accessories label pippijoe, has posted an easy-to-follow tutorial on how to make your own stylish sketching kit.

“This fancy folder is great to keep your pencils and paper neatly at hand for whenever inspiration strikes, or as a sweet distraction for the kidlets when you're out and about,” Caitlin says.

Pop over to the pippijoe blog for lots of creative inspiration and a DIY fix.

Don’t forget our realshopping website stocks a range of gorgeous fabrics from the pippijoe collection.

images pippijoe

We’re loving: Wicked chocolate cake

2010-06-03T13:56:00.005+10:00

Yum!

As promised we have real living's best ever chocolate cake recipe.
If you have a sweet tooth, like most of us in the office, don’t forget to look on our real living website – there are lots of delicious sweet treat recipes on there.
Happy baking.

Serves 8
Prep time 30 mins
Cooking time 1 hour

EQUIPMENT 20cm round springform cake tin;
baking paper; saucepan; wooden spoon; 2 mixing bowls;
spatula; electric beaters; clean tea towel

CAKE
270g good-quality dark
chocolate (70% cocoa solids)
4 tbsp butter, plus extra to grease tin
2 tsp instant coffee
100ml warm water
½ tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs, separated
½ cup plain flour, sifted
2/3 cup caster sugar
CAKE FROSTING
1 tub chocolate mousse
Fresh berries, to serve
Whipped cream, to serve

1. Preheat oven to 165°C (145°C fan-forced). Grease cake tin
and line with baking paper.
2. Melt chocolate and butter in saucepan over low heat, stirring
occasionally. When smooth, remove from heat. Dissolve coffee
in warm water and add to butter/chocolate mixture, along with
vanilla. Combine well, then set aside for 15 minutes to cool.
3. Transfer chocolate mix to bowl, add egg yolks and mix well.
Using wooden spoon, gently fold in fl our.
4. Using very clean electric beaters and mixing bowl, beat
eggwhites until soft peaks form. Then gradually add sugar.
Beat continuously until mix is thick and glossy.
5. Using wooden spoon, gently fold eggwhite mixture into
chocolate mixture, keeping as much air in mixture as possible.
Spoon into cake tin and bake for 1 hour. Remove from oven and
cover with tea towel. Leave to cool for 1½ hours.
6. Ice cake with chocolate mousse and serve with fresh berries
and whipped cream. Keep any leftovers refrigerated.

images real living

Before and after: hessian handywoman

2010-06-02T12:38:00.009+10:00

The inspiration from real living's June issue.

Olivia's room before

Hessian handywoman at work

The finished product

A crafty real living reader has put one of the ideas from the June issue into practise.

Olivia from Brisbane was inspired by the “Create a cosy living room” story on page 63 and decided to do a bit of DIY decorating.
She went to Reverse Garbage in Brisbane and got a colourful hessian bag for only $4.
Olivia and a friend then made the cushion and stapled the hessian onto a footstool she got at her local Vinnies for $8.

We think she is very clever!

If you have any of your own DIY success stories or a before-and-after you want to share, please send them through. We love to see what our readers are getting up to.
Don’t forget about our Win A Stylist comp. Details in the mag and on our real living website.

images real living and maree homer

We're loving... June 2010

2010-05-19T08:48:00.006+10:00

It's been raining in Sydney for most of this week so it's lovely to see the cheery colours on our June issue, which went on sale Monday. We've had some great feedback, especially for the "Ask the experts" feature where we got award-winning interior designers to reveal their trade secrets so you can tackle any decoration or renovation project with confidence (and lots of super great tips). As always, love to know what you think.

image real living and chris warnes

Paint Place competition

2010-05-12T10:36:00.004+10:00

One of the questions we get asked about most is paint. Choosing the right colour is not easy, so it seems. That's why we dedicated a huge section of The Decorator Rulebook in our Jan/Feb 10 issue to the topic (some of the pics from that feature are above). And, let's face it, pretty much every house has to have paint on its walls (not to mention paint for floors and skirtings if that's the look you're after).

So what sways you when choosing a colour? Fashion? Trends? Even the name? I have to admit that some of them are tempting. For example, Paint Place has released a chocolate colour called Hershey in its New Look range. Yum!

In fact, Paint Place are so excited by colour that they have launched a competition allowing you to name their hero colour of the 2011 New Look Paint Palette. All you need to do is tell them the most fitting name for the colour, below, and tell them in 25 words or less why you have chosen that name. The best original name will be included in their 2011 New Look Paint Palette and you will also win a dream room makeover valued at $3000. (Note that colours can look different on screen so if you want to see the exact colour, visit your local Paint Place store to see it on display.) To enter, visit www.paintplace.com.au or complete an entry form in-store. For full terms and conditions visit www.paintplace.com.au

images real living and paint place

What's on in Sydney this weekend

2010-05-07T12:58:00.008+10:00

The Leeloo stall at a previous Finders Keepers market

If you love supporting young emerging designers, and want to see some beautiful creations, pop along to The Finders Keepers markets. (And if you live elsewhere in Australia, check out their website as they have events across the country, too.)

There is a great mix of art, fashion and homewares from talented Australian designers so you are sure to find a great little gift for family, friends… or yourself!

A special mention goes to Renee Anne a lovely intern we had here at real living recently.
She is co-running a crafty store called Leeloo where you will find artwork, jewellery, stationery and accessories, so make sure you say hello.

The Finders Keepers markets will be held at the inside foyer at CarriageWorks - 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh NSW:
Friday 7th May 6pm – 10pm
Saturday 8th May 10am – 6pm

There are no ATM facilities, so make sure you take some cash!

For more info click here.

images courtesy of The Finders Keepers

Behind the scenes: Ed's letter pic May 2010

2010-05-04T08:40:00.004+10:00

What do they say? Never work with children or pets. But surely when they're your own it's a different story? Nope!

I wanted to try out some beautiful new leads I'd been sent from Best In Park, a great little company that was recently launched, and thought a walk along a nearby beach was the perfect spot. Photographer Chris Warnes came along too as we thought it would be easy to get a pic of my Labrador Cino. Nope, again.

The dog in Marley and Me had nothing on Cino that day!

images real living and chris warnes

realshopping SALE

2010-04-30T17:47:00.005+10:00

Spoil your little ones with a gorgeous selection of kids accessories from G&T, on SALE for a limited time only at realshopping.

image realshopping

Blogs we’re loving: The Happy Home

2010-04-30T16:10:00.010+10:00

Belinda with her little ones, Zak and Layla.

As promised we have another wonderful blog to share with you… and it’s perfect for weekend reading.

The Happy Home is the creation of our talented former deputy editor Belinda Graham. Her blog is filled with inspiring projects and beautiful objects, with lots of funny stories, often involving her kids, along the way. We asked the multitasking mother, wife, freelance writer, blogger and renovator (the list goes on) a few questions.

What was the inspiration behind The Happy Home? My home life – we have such fun. My husband and I are forever renovating and decorating our place, I’m always starting new projects and dabbling in various crafts and thought it’d be fun to share it all. Add to the mix two little ones, a love for interiors and an obsession with encouraging my children to learn, explore and create, you have one happy home on the world wide web. I hope!

How long have you been blogging? I started my first blog (renovate and decorate) when my son was six months old, so almost three years ago. The Happy Home has been online since February 2009.

Do you update content every day? I’d like to but until they give me another 10 hours in a day, it’s virtually impossible. On my old blog I updated daily, but it got to the stage where I felt pressured to post something – anything – for fear of letting readers down. I’ve banished the guilt now and try to post several times a week. On a good week, that will be every day, but because it’s almost all my original content, I aim for quality over quantity and it usually ends up about three times a week. But I think readers appreciate this – they’re getting original content and I know how nice it is to see and read something I haven’t seen anywhere else.

What sites do you love? Oh where to begin and where to end?! My never-miss-a-post blog reads are

Decor 8
Katie did
inchmark
ish and chi
A field journal
daily imprint
fat mum slim

I also spend way too much time at
flickr
etsy

images The Happy Home

Mag extras: Coasters Retreat food shoot

2010-04-28T08:30:00.000+10:00

One of the hardest parts of being an editor is not being able to include every image from a shoot - even when they're all beautiful. This was the case after we shot the Easter food story in the April 10 issue of real living. So, here are some of the images that didn't get used, or had to be cropped for the feature.

And in case you're wondering what's going on with the ears on the wallabies, well, apparently it's from fighting. Poor things.

images real living and chris warnes

Behind the scenes: food shoot

2010-04-27T12:51:00.009+10:00

This is the boat that carried the team - and props -
to the house location.

Stylist Zoey Bourne Milczarczyk and photographer
Chris Warnes talk tactics on board.

Zoey starts prepping for the shoot.

Some of the props.

Food editor Ali Irvine is the woman behind
the delicious recipes in the mag.

One of the many wallabies that came
to check out what we were up to.

How was your long weekend? Relaxing, I hope. It reminded me that we hadn't shown you a sneak peek behind the scenes from our Easter "This weekend" food shoot. The team headed to Coasters Retreat on the NSW Central Coast where wallabies kept everyone company. I think they were trying to steal the yummy hot cross bun cupcakes!

images real living

And the winner is...

2010-04-23T17:50:00.007+10:00

The winning design "Lino".

real living readers favourite "Stained".

Last night Pia Wolanski was announced as the winner of “Art on the Floor” – a competition run by Designer Rugs and The International School of Colour and Design

Not only was Pia’s design, Lino, voted number one by the judges (including myself) but her second entry, Stained, won the real living readers award – as voted by you.

Pia’s designs, along with the other three contestants, were beautiful… it was a very hard choice!

images The International School of Colour and Design

Sweet treat

2010-04-23T12:23:00.009+10:00

Yum!

Impress your friends and family this long weekend with some (almost) too-good-to-be true Anzac biscuits.

Get the recipe for this traditional Aussie favourite, with a delicious chocolatey twist, here.

Enjoy your long weekend.

image real living

Behind the scenes: May cover shoot

2010-04-23T08:00:00.000+10:00

Style director Jason Grant.

Art director Chris Warnes, photographer Maree Homer
and junior designer Rebecca Rhodes.

The team after the shoot wrapped.

The lovely homeowners.

Interior designer Tim Leveson with homeowner Gloria.

Our roving style director, Jason Grant, this week posted some behind the scenes pics from the May cover shoot. The day had all the ingredients for a great shoot: gorgeous home, great weather and lovely people.

images from jason grant

We're loving: May 10 issue

2010-04-22T09:27:00.005+10:00

In case you haven't bought your copy of the May 10 issue of real living here's a taste of what's inside. And we did actually taste it - well, the choc fudge cake. It was delicious. And the sweetness of the raspberries was the perfect complement to the richness of the chocolate. Be sure to give it a try (it's easy!).

And I really think some our all-time best features are in this issue. Stylist Marie Nichols did an amazing job on our front door feature. And Zoey Bourne Milczarczyk did a beautiful treatment of our pine table transformation story. What do you think? Any favourites?

images real living

Click & shop

2010-04-21T08:24:00.000+10:00

Babette tea towel in Blueberry.

Babette tea towel in Cherry.

Don’t forget about our great online store realshopping.

This month's "Fave finds" page in real living features some of the the latest designs from the quirky French brand, Nomades. The screenprinted tea towels, which are 100 per cent cotton and are designed by Anne Hubert, have just been added to our online store real shopping.

images via real shopping

cute & crafty height chart

2010-04-20T08:47:00.005+10:00

The cute & crafty height chart Belinda Graham
handmade for our nursery shoot.

The "Pastel Princess" room - the height chart is on the back wall.
Belinda made the pom pom wall decoration, too.

Belinda's daughter Layla really is the pastel princess... or is that ballerina...

...or munchkin. Too cute!

The height chart is available to buy via The Happy Home.

Production meetings have never been the same without Belinda Graham. When she was deputy editor on the mag she would always have some long but thoroughly entertaining story about shenanigans from her life. I was reminded how much she made us laugh when I read her recent post at The Happy Home on making a height chart for the nursery shoot in the latest issue. I dare you not to smile or laugh when you read it - it's just here.

images the happy home and real living ("pastel princess")

May issue on sale today

2010-04-19T12:45:00.002+10:00

We were blown away with the positive response to our last cover - and issue - so it will be interesting to hear what you think of this one. The May issue of real living is on newsstands today. One of my favourite features would have to be "Make an entrance: jazz up your front door". It delivered on all fronts - it's stylish, fun and practical... and makes me want to give mine a refresh.

image real living and maree homer

Open house

2010-04-16T17:59:00.007+10:00

April means 30 Days of Home and Entertaining. real living’s style director Jason Grant popped over to the Live House, which opened today, to check out what was on offer.

He says the house looks “amazing”, and the pictures above don't lie.

If you get a chance make sure you visit the Live House, which is at Waterloo in Sydney, and be sure to register for one of the exciting events here.

If you want to see more images from Jason’s visit to the Live House click on to www.mrjasongrant.blogspot.com.

Another event at 30DaysofHome just launched!

2010-04-13T13:12:00.004+10:00

Well, one of the great things about being online is that we can tell you right away that we have just this minute listed a new event on 30DaysofHome. So if you're interested in doing "Colour Masterclass" with us and the clever people at the International School of Colour and Design then sign up now. Be quick as the events have been booking out fast.

images 30DaysofHomeandEntertaining

Behind the scenes - TV shoot

2010-04-07T15:05:00.008+10:00

Contributing stylist Marie Nichols is a clever cookie. Not only did she produce an amazing feature for us in the latest issue - stylish ideas for displaying your TV but drew up these beautiful sketches too. (If you click on them you can see them larger - they're also at her blog Whole Lotta Lovely.) Thought you might like to see the story from start to finish.

images marie nichols and real living

What's on in Sydney this weekend

2010-04-01T16:59:00.006+11:00

If you are staying at home in Sydney this Easter long weekend and want to distract yourself from chocolate eggs why not snap up a bargain at the miljo relocation sale?

Where: miljo SHOP Westfield Bondi Junction
Level 5 Westfield Bondi Junction 02 9387 7143

What: Up to 40-50% discount on fashion and selected homewares

When: Starts Saturday 3rd April

Their new store is at 23C Curlewis St Bondi 02 9130 6445

We're loving: April 10 issue

2010-03-31T09:02:00.005+11:00

Not so long ago we had a big features brainstorm. It was a beautiful sunny day so we sat in nearby Hyde Park and discussed our main decorating problems. Some of the ideas from that meeting are in our current issue:

- creating a solution for displaying - or distracting from - TVs (pretty much everyone in the office, as well as a stack of readers via emails and letters)

- how to stop your hallway from becoming a dumping ground and get it organised (via, Natalie)

- working out exactly what your decorating style is (thanks, Kelly)

- storage, storage, storage (John is always on the lookout for new ideas - as am I!)

- family favourite sweet treats (Andrea is our resident baker - she's made the key lime pie from a few issues ago several times and we're all secretly hoping she'll give these a whirl too).

So, as you can see, we're really about finding practical, stylish solutions to everyday problems. If you have any requests for what problem you need fixing - then just ask. It will probably find its way into the mag sooner rather than later.

images real living

Mag extras: new rustic

2010-03-26T15:47:00.016+11:00

Jacinta Preston's beautiful home

We have had lots of great feedback about our bold April 2010 cover.
Many love the dramatic black walls. So do we!
Thought we would share the full cover story here for our international readers who haven’t been able to get their hands on a copy yet.
Enjoy

images real living and chris warnes

We're loving: Collector Store

2010-03-25T09:25:00.000+11:00

It's always great to see your city through the eyes of a newcomer. Kelly Hawke, real living's editorial co-ordinator, moved down from Brisbane in August last year and is discovering all sorts of cool places in her local 'hood. Here's her latest favourite find:

For those of you based in Sydney, or maybe planning a weekend trip to the big smoke, a visit to Crown St in Surry hills is a great way to get a feel for inner-city Sydney life.

One of our favourite stores along this colourful street is Collector Store, filled to the brim with beautiful fashion, homewares, and accessories.

Collector Store was opened in October 2009 by two Surry hills locals, Nicole and Chris Balken. They said they chose Crown St because of its village environment. “There is a great buzz in the air and lots of new exciting stores opening,” Nicole says.

Collector Store rings true to its name and is a collection of all things lovely. It’s the ideal one-stop shop. They have just opened an upstairs area with beautiful furniture and homewares. Some of the labels include Publisher Textiles, WS Traders, Tim Leveson, Ponyrider, Murchison-Hume, Attia and new to the store Ortigia.

Also, look out for the revolving artwork collections that are a new addition to Collector Store. Phillip Morris, a 1970s rock photographer, will have his artwork displayed on their walls over the next month.

images jason grant

Offices where you want to work!

2010-03-19T07:34:00.000+11:00

It's always inspiring - and impressive - to see how well office spaces can be designed. After all, they should be places that you want to be - no one wants to drag their heels to work. There are some amazing examples in the recently announced shortlist for the Interior Design Awards. The above Leo Burnett office is the creation of architecture and interior design firm Hassell. Winners will be announced on Friday 23 April.

images courtesy of the Interior Design Awards and Brent Winstone

Another wonderful blog

2010-03-18T09:04:00.000+11:00

real living's Deputy Editor Natalie Walton

An image from Natalie's blog - from an interview with Romy Freedman

One of Kelly Wearstler's creations - yep, she was interviewed on Daily Imprint too!

Natalie Walton
Our Deputy Editor Natalie Walton’s blog Daily Imprint is somewhat of an institution in the blog world. The blog has been around since 2007 and is a one-stop shop of inspiration. She interviews amazing creative types. Artists, jewellery designers, photographers, writers, stylists - you name it, they’re on there. Just the other week she interviewed interior design extraordinaire Kelly Wearstler. Yes, the Kelly Wearstler!!

Natalie herself has just ventured into the world of styling so watch this space.

Why did you start blogging? I started Daily Imprint in June 2007 – yes, I’m an old-timer – after attending the Sydney Writers’ Festival. I was so inspired by all the authors I saw that I didn’t want to wait another year to get motivated again. So I started the blog as a way to record my progress as a writer and to find out about other people pursuing their creative dreams.

What are your all time favourite sites? It changes all the time. I always check out the blogs of friends, such as Belinda Graham’s The Happy Home, Jason Grant’s Mr Jason Grant, and Dani Rosen’s The Style Tree, but others that I can’t resist include The Anthropologist , The Selby, The Sartorialist and A Cup of Jo - hmmm, all based in New York – funny that.

What’s coming up on your site? How would you fancy a little bit of The Sartorialist’s Scott Schuman for breakfast, followed by artist Stephen Ormandy over lunch and a pre-dinner cocktail with fashion designer Fleur Wood.

Sounds perfect to us!

images via daily imprint

Magnolia Square in Melbourne

2010-03-17T15:26:00.005+11:00

Make sure you check out the Luce handmade stall

It’s still hard to beat handmade goods when it comes to gifts – for you or your nearest and dearest. That’s why a few of us in the office couldn’t resist the Magnolia Square event in Sydney not so long ago. It’s great because you can buy a whole range of products that you don’t see everywhere else, and all the stalls are beautifully displayed. For those of you in Melbourne, it’s your turn to check out what’s on offer. We’d love to know which were your favourite stalls – and best buys.

St Kilda town hall
Thursday 18 March: 10am-9pm

Friday 19 March: 10am-5pm

Saturday 20 March: 10am-4pm
www.magnoliasquare.com.au

We're loving: April 2010 issue

2010-03-15T14:33:00.004+11:00

Do you recognise the cover? For those of you who voted on our recent poll, you'll see that we couldn't resist the dramatic and yet classic home of interior designer Jacinta Preston for our April issue. The issue went on sale today. As always, love to know what you think - about the cover and what's inside.

image real living and chris warnes

Vote for your favourite rug design

2010-03-12T17:39:00.011+11:00

Lino

Water

Stained

Feather Spray

Plant Shadow & Line

The International School of Colour and Design (iscd) and Designer Rugs have teamed up once again to celebrate "Art on the Floor".
The competition is open to students from iscd and the finalists' designs, chosen from 500 entries, have been hand woven into bespoke Designer Rugs pieces.
Aren’t they gorgeous?
I get to judge these beautiful designs, along with Yosi Tal from Designer Rugs and Prue Royle from iscd. The winners will be announced on Thursday, 22nd April… it’s a tough decision!

Click here to vote for your favourite rug on our website.

Behind the scenes: 30 Days of Home & Entertaining

2010-03-10T17:33:00.007+11:00

Oooh - have we got a treat for you. real living is involved in the 30 Days of Home & Entertaining event that's being held in April. We got to choose what we would like to host and so we thought the best idea was to get a guest stylist to come along and teach you all their tricks.

Go here to register - but you have to be quick as it's nearly all booked out.

And if you're interested in meeting me and Madison editor Elizabeth Renkert talk about fashion in the bedroom - on your bed and in your wardrobe - then go here.

Look forward to meeting you!

images 30 Days of Home & Entertaining

The wonderful world of blogging part 1

2010-03-05T17:33:00.005+11:00

Mr Jason Grant

On one of his sourcing expeditions at Kikki K

have you met miss jones stand at a recent gift fair

(check out Miss Jones on p162 in the real living March issue)

Each week we will introduce you to a blogger who we love. To start off we are going to feature some beautiful blogs that are linked to real living, and are sure to inspire.
Enjoy.

Jason Grant
I know we had a link to this a few weeks ago but if you haven’t already clicked on to our style director Jason Grant’s blog mrjasongrant.blogspot.com you are missing out. Jason’s blog is very addictive. It showcases his fabulous, often manic, life as a stylist. He visits beautiful stores, reveals behind the scenes secrets and also attends great events; lucky for us he takes pics! It is perfect if you want to get a glimpse into life as a stylist.
We asked the man behind the addictive new blog a few questions.

Why did you start blogging? Ask anyone in the office - I don’t stop talking. Blogging is very instant and strangely addictive and I like my blog to be in the moment. Nothing too serious.
What are your all time favourite sites?
www.thestyletree.com
www.thesartorialist.blogspot.com
www.theselby.com
www.wheretheycreate.com
www.ams-info.com
What can we look forward to seeing on your site? Loads more fun stuff. Shops, styling sneak peeks and lots of behind the scenes stuff.

Mag extras: Office detail shots

2010-03-05T12:10:00.004+11:00

It's lovely how much feedback we received on the office shopping feature for the March issue. It was Natalie's first ever styling shoot and she went completely overboard, but in the nicest possible way. Thought you might enjoy these detail shots that photographer Chris Warnes took on the day.

images real living

What's on in Sydney this weekend

2010-02-26T17:48:00.010+11:00

New pieces from the Jac+Jack winter 2010 collection

Jac+Jack's debut homewares collection

Jac+Jack
The queens of luxurious knitwear, Jac Hunt and Lisa ‘Jack’ Dempsey, AKA Jac+Jack, have opened their first ever store.
The Jac+Jack store opened today in Paddington and is filled with all things soft and glamorous.
The store will not only have the timeless cashmere and knitwear creations that put Jac+Jack on the map, it will also stock their new sunglasses and homewares collections.
Stock up just in time for the cooler autumn evenings.
39 William St, Paddington NSW
Opening hours:

Monday – Friday: 10am to 6pm

Saturday: 10am to 5.30pm

Sunday: 11am to 4pm

John Williams Auctions
If you are looking for something special for your home, and love a bargain, John Williams Auctions is the place for you.
You must be willing to sift and use your imagination, but once you find that antique chair, or vintage lamp base – the possibilities are endless. Trust us!

Remember - it’s not for the impatient shopper.
This weekend there will be art, furniture, lighting and jewellery up for auction among lots of other bits and pieces.
If you can’t stay all day you can place an absentee bid… then you get to wait in anticipation until Monday to see if you were successful.
6 Ralph St, Alexandria NSW

Opening hours:

Saturday: 12 noon to 6pm

Sunday: 12 noon to 7:30pm

Happy shopping!

Mag extras: Kit homes get groovy

2010-02-22T09:08:00.005+11:00

We've had some great feedback on the kit home featured in the latest issue. Thought you might like to see some "before" pics of it being constructed.

images courtesy of Bachkit

Fab MAMAGREEN sale this weekend

2010-02-19T12:10:00.004+11:00

Now is the perfect time to purchase that outdoor furniture you have been eyeing off all summer long.

The lovely people at MAMAGREEN are offering 20% – 50% off their extensive range of eco-friendly outdoor furniture.
Their stylish designs are perfect poolside, or in any area where you can sit back and enjoy the sunshine.
The sale ends this Sunday (21st Feb) so don’t miss out!

MAMAGREEN
Tue-Sat (10am-5pm) Sun (10am-4pm)
http://www.mamagreen.com.au/ or call: 02 9550 3306 for more info.
Unit 5, 32-60 Alice St, NEWTOWN NSW 2042

Sneak peek... March 10 issue

2010-02-15T10:35:00.005+11:00

I know some of you have been hanging out for the March issue - if the forum on our website is anything to go by - after the double issue of JanFeb 10. So here is a sneak peek at some of the features in the March issue, which hit the newsstands today. Love to know which is your fave feature.

images real living

Sneak peek... March 10 cover

2010-02-12T13:58:00.000+11:00

Ta-da! For those of you who voted recently for one of cover options here is the winning image. We went for the light-filled room with the gorgeous aqua sofa. What do you think? The March issue goes on sale Monday 15 February - but some subscribers may already have their copy. You can subscribe via Magshop.

image real living

House swapping - in style!

2010-02-11T08:10:00.000+11:00

Fancy staying in Barcelona?

Or Brooklyn...

Bondi...

East Redfern...

Or Provence, France?

Some of you might recall a couple of years ago we ran a feature on house swapping. Well, deputy ed Natalie Walton kept that article and this summer finally got around to taking snaps of her place and listing on a couple of house swapping sites. The first was Creative Caravan, which tags itself as the "Craiglist for creatives". The other was Homelink. She says it has many properties in Australia as well as overseas so should be good for domestic as well as international holidays. Within the first week of listing on Homelink she got an offer from someone wanting to swap from Martinique in the Caribbean!

No sooner did we chat about house swapping then a press release popped into my inbox - there's now a company "for people with homes they're proud of" - Luxe Home Swap.

images courtesy of creative caravan

More summer fun

2010-02-10T09:43:00.000+11:00

One of our favourite house features from the JanFeb issue was the Perth house. It was stylish but unpretentious and had plenty of room to accommodate the couple's five boys - yes, five! Photographer Michael Wee kept shooting after the house shots were done as the family ran down to a nearby beach. Australian living at its best!

images real living and michael wee

Summer love... outdoors

2010-02-09T09:17:00.006+11:00

Finally there's a break in the clouds in Sydney after days and days of pouring rain. (Fingers crossed that the sun stays out as we're shooting a potential cover today.) In celebration of sun and summer I thought you might enjoy this pic - taken the same day we shot our gardening feature in the Jan/Feb issue. Stylist Jason Grant created a beautiful spot where everyone could stop for a bite for lunch.

image real living

Have you got The Decorator Rule Book?

2010-02-08T07:19:00.000+11:00

One more reason that you shouldn't forget to grab a copy of the JanFeb 10 issue... it includes The Decorator Rulebook - EVERYTHING you need to know about decorating. We got super stylish and award-winning interior designers Arent & Pyke to reveal all their industry knowledge, trade secrets and best tips and tricks. The issue is on sale for one more week (until March 10 hits newsstands Monday 15 March).

image real living

We're loving... Jan/Feb 10 issue

2010-02-04T10:02:00.007+11:00

Is it that time already? We've just received the early bound issue of the March 10 issue, which means that there are only a few more days of Jan/Feb 10 on sale. So don't forget to grab a copy if you haven't already. I can honestly say that it's one of my all-time favourites.

images real living

What we're buying: books, books, books!!!

2010-01-25T09:22:00.005+11:00

Deputy editor Natalie Walton went on a book-buying spree this weekend. Here are some gems she bought and why you might like them for your own collection.

"Yes, I confess, books are my weakness. And I just can't get enough of inspiring interiors. You see, while most of the books above are actually in the real living office, I just had to have my own to drool over at home. Here's why:

"A girl's guide to decorating by Abigail Ahern - I just adore her use of dramatic colours and bold statement pieces of furniture. Plus, the book is written in a chatty and non-threatening way with great tips.

"Modern glamour by Kelly Wearstler - this is one of Kelly Wearstler's first books and still the best in terms of explaining how she approaches design projects. Her designs can be quite full-on but I always admire her compositions and daring.

"Home is where the heart is by Ilse Crawford - it's an oldie but hasn't really dated. It's well-balanced in terms of decorating advice and imagery. I love Ilse's philosophy of making personalised spaces, too.

"Home by Anita Kaushal - If you have children and want to create stylish spaces for them then this is the book for you. Homes that are family friendly and visually appealing without trying too hard.

"Island Life by India Hicks - This book has been around for a while too and even though the photography is a little dated there's still a beautiful inherent style in each shot. Perfect inspiration for people who live near the beach - like me!"

And kitten makes three

2010-01-18T11:38:00.000+11:00

A few years ago it seemed everyone in the office was falling pregnant. I blamed one of the chairs. As soon as someone sat in it - bingo! Last year half the team became different kind of parents - pet parents. Amanda, John and Hana all got cats! You should hear how ga-ga they are over their fluffy friends. Meet proud mum, deputy chief sub-editor, Amanda Hemmings-Barbezat:

"Elvin is an adorable kitten we adopted through Pet Rescue. As soon as I saw his picture – big green eyes peeping out of a ball of grey fluff – I couldn’t resist him. So after persuading my husband Mark (who’s not a huge cat lover) that we really did need a cat I had to go through the adoption process. They had to make sure we were “suitable parents” - did we have a garden? like animals? have the time to dedicate to a pet? After a few nerve-wracking days awaiting the verdict we were overjoyed to hear that we had passed the “test” (phew!) and were the proud new owners of Elvin.

"I excitedly stocked up on kitty items – cat bed, scratchpost (essential!), yellow collar with a bell (not quite essential but very cute!), toy mice, litter tray etc – and then collected the little fella from his carer. Elvin was eight weeks old when we took him home – he seemed so fragile and very timid – but it didn’t take long for him to get to know us and settle into his new surroundings.

"Two months on and Elvin is well and truly part of the family – in fact, we’d be lost without him. Even Mark “I do not like cats” Barbezat is smitten. It’s lovely when he curls up on my lap and purrs contentedly, and I love it when he greets us at the door as we arrive home from work. He loves playing with his toys (he received more Christmas pressies than we did!), and has a thing for racing down the stairs, sliding across the floorboards and colliding headfirst into the table (amusing to watch him in action). He has become a very robust kitten. We just need him to get into the habit of clawing his scratchpost and not the sofa!"

Elvin - Fact File
Breed: Domestic Medium Hair
Colour: Smoky grey
DOB: 10 Oct 2009
Fave food: Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Original (dry food) mixed with Whiskas Kitten Sachets (wet food)
Top snoozing spot: His ‘Plump Donut bolster bed’ from Trixan Pet Supplies (www.trixanpet.com.au)

images amanda hemmings-barbezat

Fave interior shops in Brisbane

2010-01-15T08:31:00.000+11:00

Bold designs on display at Soho Interiors.

Kova is the perfect one-stop shop.

Kova does fashion too.

The Art Deco inspired Chelsea De Luca store.

One of De Luca's stunning pieces.

Absolutely Fabulous has an eclectic mix of old and new.

Get your Parisian fix at café Bouquiniste.

More holiday fun. Whenever editorial co-ordinator Kelly Hawke heads home to Brisbane she manages to hit the shops.

"Whenever I head north to visit my family I can't help but sneak in a quick trip to visit my fave stores. Here are my top picks of what Brisbane has to offer in the world of interiors.

Soho Interiors Shop1/146 Racecourse Rd Ascot p. 07 3630 1992 www.sohointeriors.com.au I am a little biased as I used to work at Soho and I only have fond memories of this place. My days at work were spent trawling through fabrics and wallpapers imagining which ones I would use in my dream home. The range of fabrics there is to die for - Missoni, Designers Guild, Florence Broadhurst, Kelly Wearstler for Schumacher and Victoria Hagan to name a few! I can’t go to Brisbane without popping in to say hello and getting my fix.

Magnolia Interiors Shop 13a, 23 James Street, Fortitude Valley p. 07 3252 0805 www.magnoliainteriors.com.au Magnolia Interiors is famous for its feminine aesthetic. I love it because as soon as you walk in you feel like you’re in another world, Marie Antoinette decadence meets Hamptons chic. The walls are always dramatically wallpapered and the shop displays never fail to impress. The smell of Cire Trudon candles and the colourful Limoges tea cups make you think you could be in Paris.

Kova Lifestyle Shop 9a, 23 James Street, Fortitude Valley p. 07 3257 7055 www.kovalifestyle.com.au Kova is a perfect one-stop shop. It is the go-to store when you need a gift for someone (or yourself). Kova not only stocks an eclectic mix of homewares (think Ruby Star traders, Mud Porcelain, Corban and Blair, Catherine Swan ‘paper butterfly’ artworks), it also has the floaty creations of Australian fashion designer Fleur Wood. P.S The owner of this store is the sister of Chelsea De Luca, the jewellery designer who has a gorgeous, art deco inspired store up the road on James St. Definitely worth a look! Chelsea De Luca 76 James St, New Farm p. 07 3358 6880 www.chelseadeluca.com.au

Absolutely Fabulous 39 Logan Rd, Wooloongabba p. 07 3391 1444 www.absofab.com.au Absolutely Fabulous, which has recently moved to upcoming shopping hotspot Wooloongabba, has the perfect mix of old and new. The retro furniture is always flawlessly restored. They often combine a modern fabric with an older style piece of furniture and it looks so… fabulous!

Café Bouquiniste 121 Merthyr Rd, New Farm p. 07 3254 1226 Because a girl needs to eat! I always visit café Bouquiniste when I am in Brisbane. It rings true to its name – Bouquiniste is French for bookseller. The café’s walls are lined with books that you can buy, or just read while eating the raspberry yoghurt cake (my pick). Make sure you take a moment to appreciate the thoughtful bits and pieces carefully placed with the books – vintage French postcards, old diaries, elaborate rubber stamps and pretty smelling soaps."

Light fantastic

2010-01-14T12:53:00.000+11:00

Here's a peek at what Andrea Healy from the art department got up to on her getaway:

"It was difficult to improve on the setting of the beach shack. Bright blue ocean framed between towering gums. Empty pre-Christmas days were spent cobbling together simple paper chains with pages torn from a Spirax notebook… just for something to do. Paper chains eventually outnumbered damp beach towels strung across the deck. Later we went crazy and added a burst of colour with some crepe paper from the local $2 shop. Christmas sorted! New Year – just add sparklers."

images andrea healy

Summer fun in the surf

2010-01-12T15:17:00.001+11:00

Perfect conditions for our aspiring Gidget.

Catherine and Aaron stop at Freshwater Beach
to check out the conditions.

On the board already!

Passing statue of surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku near Freshwater.

I thought I'd share a few more posts with what the team have been up to this summer. Intern (and Canadian) Catherine Barr and her husband Aaron went on a surfing safari with Manly Surf School. Here's what she has to say about learning how to hang 10.

"After a quick introduction to our instructors for the day – coaching director and founder Matt Grainger and eight-year veteran Shane Conwell, both experienced instructors and decorated pros – we set off for a scenic tour along the Northern beaches towards our destination of Palm Beach.

"We took a brief stop at Freshwater Beach. “Freshie”, as the locals call it, is where surfing began in Australia. On a rocky peak just above the cliff stands a bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku. The Hawaiian surf legend and champion Olympic swimmer is credited with inspiring Australians to surf after he gave a captivating demonstration at Freshie in the summer of 1915.

"After we arrived at Palm Beach the instructors had us practice standing on our boards in the sand and gave a few tips. Then it was time to get down to business. The initial rush was incredibly motivating and made us work harder to try and catch a wave ourselves, which we did after a few ego-battering wipeouts.

"After lunch we were eager to get back into the water even though we were battling fatigue - turns out learning to surf is an intense workout. But it was a great day.

"Day tours are $99 per person and include pick up and drop off from the city, a guided tour up the northern beaches in search of the best waves, a two hour lesson, lunch, and another lesson."

images via manly surf school

New year, new adventures

2010-01-11T08:20:00.006+11:00

A sneak peek at Jason's bedroom in his new apartment.

One of his styling ideas.

Jason behind the scenes on a real living shoot.

What he's been up to over the holidays.

The man himself.

Hope you've had a lovely holiday. What have you been up to? Any beautiful decorating projects you'd like to share? The whole magazine company closes down for a couple of weeks over Christmas so I've been rejuvenating with plenty of rest and relaxation...

But some of the other real living team members have been busy bees. Style director Jason Grant has started a blog called, appropriately enough, Mr Jason Grant. It's all about his styling adventures - so be sure to check it out.

images jason grant

Happy holidays!

2009-12-22T17:42:00.003+11:00

Can you believe it's almost Christmas?! It has come around faster than ever this year... so I hope the Christmas issue was helpful. Or are you still running around the shops? It seems here in the office it's pretty much 50-50. This year I did all my shopping in one hit. I wrote a list and went on a mission and, you know what, it worked! So now all I have to do is give my place a quick tidy before the guests arrive and then sit back and relax. I hope you do too - over the summer period - with your January issue of real living, of course.

Happy holidays!

Deb and the team at real living

Day in the life: Filming Jamie Durie ad

2009-12-10T09:52:00.000+11:00

A few weekends ago I spent the day with Jamie Durie. I was invited to be a part of the television commercial for his Patio range, which is stocked in Big W. It was very exciting and, as you can imagine, nerve-racking! I mean seriously, doing a commercial with Jamie Durie who is such an amazing presenter how on earth was I going to get through it? I have to tell you he was LOVELY – he gave me all the secret tips and tricks for relaxing in front of the camera, and he stayed back to coach me through my bit, every sound bite and movement. He was so encouraging and kind. One tip I can share: I arrived in my sandshoes and was ready to jump in front of the camera when he whispered, “Did you bring any heels with you?” Yes, funnily enough I had a pair in my bag in case I needed them (as you do). He told me to put them on because even though they are not seen in the shot they will help give me my mojo - it works - I felt so much more confident and could get through without my entire body shaking too much. So my new rule: Don’t go anywhere without your heels!

Cool craft: Lace award - entries now open

2009-12-09T09:16:00.005+11:00

Have you noticed that craft is cool again? Everyone is celebrating the handmade. In fact, the Powerhouse Museum has created an International Lace Award "to inspire designers, artists and architects to create a new generation of lace encompassing a diversity of materials, techniques and scale and featuring the artist's personal sense of 'place'".

If you want to apply - $40,000 in prize money is up for grabs - or are interested in more info, visit powerhousemuseum.com/lace

image powerhouse museum

Sneak peek: Amanda Hemmings-Barbezat's fave sunny spot

2009-12-08T15:49:00.001+11:00

Amanda Hemmings-Barbezat, deputy chief sub-editor, shares her favourite sunny spot:

"My back garden is wonderful for chilling out with a good book. It’s so peaceful and such a private spot with lots of beautiful foliage and palms. I love spending time sitting on the large balcony at the back as it looks out over the garden and is a real sun trap. I can smell the sweet scent of our jasmine bush from here, too – gorgeous. I could stay here all day!"

Mag extras: Kellie Nash's house

2009-12-04T11:41:00.000+11:00

In the December issue of real living we featured the Gold Coast home of Kellie Nash - see page 24. She and her husband Clint built their first house together over a 13-month period and we were so impressed with the result that we wanted to share some more pics with you.

images kellie nash

We're loving: December 09 issue

2009-12-02T08:59:00.000+11:00

So are you all organised for the madness that can be the month of December? We decided to dedicate the December 09 issue of real living to getting guest and summer-ready. There's a feature on creating a guest room you'll want to keep, and another on creative storage solutions with items you already have around your home. Plus, fast and family-friendly weekday meals. But December wouldn't be first month of summer without some beautiful sunny homes. Enter Mela Purdie's Sydney villa and Merinda Garrett's beachside shack. Speaking of which, we have also featured Emma Hohnen and Susan Weil's amazing budget renovation in Bellingen - a place you can book to stay - just go to Stayz. You better be quick, though, when we featured their previous holiday home in Putty it was booked out for months in advance!

images real living

Behind the scenes: Ed's letter pic Dec 09

2009-12-01T12:09:00.005+11:00

Beautiful bird cages were a welcome surprise.

And I spotted lots of goodies at Dinosaur Designs.

Chris the photographer catches
me checking out a cool outfit - whoops.

The walk of shame - hehe.

Dreaming is free.

And so is looking!

Each month I try to include a glimpse of interiors in my ed's letter pic - or give you a taste of what's inspiring the real living team. For the December issue, I hit the pavement with art director and photographer Chris Warnes to capture a fun shot. But sometimes the best-laid plans don't always come off. Deputy editor Natalie Walton had recently discovered the beautiful bird cages (near Martin Place - you should check it out) and we thought that might work. But they were so high that it was hard to capture them for what's a small image on the page. Then we headed to The Strand in the city before ending up at one my fave inspiration spots - Hermes! When we brought the shots back into the office everyone confessed that they too love checking out the window displays. The only problem was that none of us noticed that I looked as if I was smoking in the photo - I wasn't and I don't - but, hey, we were too distracted with the display!

images real living

Sneak peek: December 09 issue

2009-11-23T08:25:00.005+11:00

The December 09 issue of real living is on newsstands today. Hope you enjoy it and get loads of summer inspiration for your home. Stay tuned for some of our fave features from the mag.

image real living

What we're loving: Amy Butler bags and luggage

2009-11-20T10:58:00.000+11:00

I don't know if you remember but a while back we featured the amazing home of Amy Butler. It's in June 08 for those of you with archives. We immediately fell in love with Amy's designs. We even used her fabric as the background for our business cards. And I have to say that Amy has never let us down. I recently received this pic of her new bag and luggage range and think it's beautiful.

image amy butler

Before & after: White paint magic

2009-11-12T08:52:00.006+11:00

How fabulous are these before & after pics! It just goes to show that sometimes all you need is a tin of white paint, and a little imagination. We found these photos via the blog One Simple Addiction.

Don't forget to send in your before & after pics to real living.

images life in the fun lane via one simple addiction