Hawthorn House

Melbourne based AM. Architecture creates buildings of their time and yet timeless. There is a calmness and a simple presence to their work. Form and functional not flashy and fake. That doesn't mean drab and cookie cutter either. This Hawthorn house is a case point. The existing Victorian era home was restored and freed from generations of fragmented renovations while the new extension took the house into the 21st century and provided a focus for open plan family living with a strong connection to the outdoors. Love the strong linear connection between the walk in pantry, kitchen bench that transforms into dining table.

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SIMO Design

Ho ho ho! It's almost time for reindeer and a jolly fat man. I wouldn't be unhappy if I found anything refurbed by architect/designers Sam Gnatovich and Alexi Rennalls of SIMO Design in my stocking. (OK hard to fit a California Bungalow or a midcentury modern house in a stocking but you know what I mean ;) I love that even while modernising these homes they have retained the original. It's a young, vibrant take on the family home.

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Franchesca Watson

A garden is evolving, never really finished as it grows and matures. South African landscape designer Franchesca Watson, who trained in the performing and decorative arts before embarking on her lifelong love affair with plants and gardens, brings drama and beauty, sophistication and casual elegance to her outdoor canvases. She connects owners with their little piece of nature through stylish contemporary and neo-classical designs. A beautiful art form perfected by this artisan landscape designer.

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Week of stalking 3

I've left Sydney and now I'm peeping through the curtains of this house in Caulfield South, Melbourne. Fun, fab, fresh and loaded with vintage treasures. Vibrant colour bouncing off white walls. A wonderfully creative family home. Just what I would expect from a stylist. Wonder if she is having a garage sale before she moves? I don't only want the house, I want half the contents. Link here while it lasts.

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Week of stalking 2

We've moved from Sydney's northern beaches to the inner city west, Annandale to be precise. A bright and fresh renovation of this Federation era semi but the surprise is in the small backyard. A plunge pool and cabana stepping up the sloping block. Clever. You'll find me soaking in the pool if you pop round for an open for inspection. Grab me a wine will you? Link here while it lasts.

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