Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/ Homes, Bathroom, Kitchen & Outdoor Sat, 10 Jan 2026 01:46:44 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/cropped-HBFavIcon2024.png Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/ 32 32 221866170 A sleek Brisbane new build that gives parents and teenagers room to breathe https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/sleek-new-build-brisbane/ Fri, 09 Jan 2026 02:25:21 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284533 Managing their Queensland new build fave Nicola and Nick the flexibility to tailor the space to their family's individual requirements.

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This “ugly, ’80s, dark and dingy brick house” was not high on Nicola’s wishlist when she and her husband Nick were looking for a home to buy in Brisbane. But at Nick’s insistence, she went along to the open inspection and was instantly enamoured with the property’s views over the Brisbane River.

The house itself left a lot to be desired. “The original owner built it as two houses in one for his extended family, with two kitchens, two sets of stairs, two TV rooms, et cetera,” says Nicola. “It sounds great, but in reality there were tiny rooms everywhere and it was a rabbit warren. I didn’t think there was anything to salvage and, in short, it was just easier to start again.”

The home features a facade softened by star jasmine. “We love the size of out windows and all the greenery surrounding them. Our guests have referred to it as feeling like they are in a tree house,” says Nicola (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

Planning progress

“I have always wanted a lobby entry – it’s nice when you first walk in if there is one space that remains tidy,” says Nicola of the lobby. The ‘Manor 3D’ floor tiles from KW Tiles are in Grey and White while a Casa Blanco ‘Axel’ console and Freedom ‘Asha’ mirrors join a Coco Republic chair. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

This wasn’t Nicola and Nick’s first foray into building, so they made sure that they took their time – five years – to live in the home and get to know its light patterns and vantage points. They shared the space with their three children, Isabella, now 17, Ara, 15, and Ed, 12. “As the kids were getting older, we really wanted them to have their own space and for us to have ours,” says Nicola.

A helical staircase makes a sweeping statement consisting of oak treads, rendered walls and steel banisters. A skylight floods the space with natural light. “It’s so lovely to see the twinkling stars at night,” says Nicola. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

Unfortunately, errors from early contractors set them back, but Aled Buckley from Creative Space Custom Joinery & Furniture got them on track. “He had to start again with his shop drawings and we worked together to design most of the house,” says Nicola. “We had a bit of experience from past houses, but managing the project ourselves did mean the build took an extra six months to complete.”

Behind the design

Windows frame the cosy living room, where a Coco Republic ‘Veneta’ coffee table sits at its heart. Comfy white chairs and a Nick Scali ‘Marabel’ sofa surround it. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

Having lived in Sydney, the couple took inspiration from the terraces that line the streets of its inner-city suburbs. “We knew a replica would look out of place in Queensland so we modernised it while trying to keep the essence of a terrace house,” says Nicola.

The statement Coco Republic ‘Veneta’ coffee table. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

Items on the wish list were a pool, steel doors, high ceilings and concrete slabs between each level. “My ears were so tired of hearing the boom, boom, boom on the floors from the kids and their friends running around the old house, so I couldn’t wait to have concrete slabs to reduce the noise,” says Nicola.

She opted for a more unconventional layout. “I really wanted to have it flow well but not be an obvious way, so you wouldn’t walk in the house and guess where everything was from the front door,” says Nicola.

Special features

Despite the setbacks, Nicola and Nick are thrilled with the finished product. “Our favourite room is the kitchen,” says Nicola. “We have two island benches so we can make a mess at one while cooking without having to clean up, and use the other one to dine at.”

With views over the river and past a heritage-listed forest of alpine trees, the top floor kitchen is one of Nicola’s favourite spaces. Luxury fixtures include a Smith & Smith custom pendant, Pitt ‘Drum’ natural gas cooktop burners and a Whispair rangehood flanked by Smith & Smith ‘Talia’ wall lamps. ‘Stuttgart’ counter stools from Coco Republic are tucked into the island. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

“Everyone advised us against putting the kitchen on the top floor, but we are so happy that we did,” Nicola.

There are two islands – one for cooking and the other for meals – topped with limestone. The gabled joinery was a collective effort between Nicola and Aled Buckley from Creative Space Custom Joinery & Furniture and is finished with knurled antique brass handles. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

The teenagers tend to occupy the middle floor with the rumpus, kitchenette and pool, while Nicola and Nick have their own sitting room upstairs with a fireplace and TV. A showstopping circular staircase connects all three levels, while the stylish ground-floor lobby entry “is the one space that remains tidy” Nicola shares.

“We wake up each morning so grateful and happy with our choices and where we live. It makes me happy everywhere I look!”

The couple’s bedroom is a cosy haven featuring ‘Camden’ bedside tables from Coco Republic and curtains in ‘Burano’ natural linen from Warwick. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

“We love to watch the rowers row past in the morning and see the sun glisten off the water,” Nicola.

Nick and Nicola’s bathroom features ‘Manor 3D’ wall and floor tiles from KW Tiles, and Faucet Strommen tapware. A Smith & Smith ‘Vienne’ alabaster wall light illuminates the custom vanity and mirror. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

Budget breakdown

Due to delays with finding reliable consultants, timeframe extensions and big-ticket inclusions, Nicola says the final spend was almost double
the budget. “Many extra expenses came from having higher ceilings,” she says. “To keep things in proportion it meant higher glass doors, internal doors and larger windows, which added to the cost significantly.”

The concrete roof and slabs needed more costly lighting and Wi-Fi and air conditioning systems. The budget breakdown estimate is: Demolition 1%, Consultants 5%, Building 45%, Interiors 25%, Joinery (including stone) 20%, Landscaping 4%.

Lessons learnt

The exterior walls are painted in Dulux Beige Royal Half, with ‘Manor 3D’ floor tiles from KW Tiles. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

“The biggest lesson we learnt was that no-one is going to care as much about this project as you,” says Nicola, who found the task of project managing the build “all-consuming but so worth it in the end!” Having built and renovated before, she and Nick understood the importance of living with the home before embarking on a complete transformation.

They were also happy to splurge on more luxurious finishes given their plans to stay in this home long term, and designed a floor plan that, albeit unconventional, suited their family’s needs perfectly. “We have everything we could have dreamed of in this house,” says Nicola.

The outdoor kitchen, living and dining space is perfect for relaxing outdoors. Freedom ‘Ataman’ sofas and armchairs and King Living ‘Luna’ outdoor chairs have views of the pool and trees beyond. A ‘Plateau’ sun lounger from King Living is the perfect finishing touch. (Credit: Photography: Louise Roche)

Source book

Joinery Creative Space Custom Joinery & Furniture, @creativespacecustomjoinery
Landscaping Shelby Landscaping, 0438 656 347

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The perfect summer getaway destination might be closer than you think https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/airbnb-victoria/ Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:58:15 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1260314 Explore Victoria's most charming hidden gems

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Very few destinations offer the same kind of variety as Victoria. From Melbourne’s buzzing cultural scene to the crisp, outdoorsy calm of the Victorian Alps, the state is packed with sights, cities, and landscapes to suit every style of traveller. However, to truly make the most of your next trip, you’ll want to find accommodation that’s just as special as your destination. Enter: our roundup of the most unique Airbnbs in Victoria, each of which serves as an experience in its own right.

Think rustic retreats tucked into the landscape, off-grid escapes with sweeping mountain views, architect-designed homes and farm stays complete with outdoor pools.

Whether your plans involve coffee hopping through Melbourne’s laneways, soaking up the sun along the coast, or setting out on a scenic alpine hike, there is an Airbnb to match the mood. So, skip the long-haul flight and find paradise closer to home; we’ve spent hours combing through accommodation options to find the best Victoria Airbnbs, and they’re all listed below for your booking convenience.

Victoria’s best Airbnbs of 2026

  1. Best Airbnb in Victoria for couples: Little Pines in Tawonga South
  2. Best Airbnb in Victoria for families: The River Road Farmhouse in Coral Bank
  3. Best pet-friendly Airbnb in Victoria: Rustic Bush Escape in Glenburn
  4. Best Airbnb in Victoria with a pool: Oakstone Estate in Mornington
  5. Most unique Airbnb in Victoria: Steam: Vintage Train Carriage in Forrest
  6. Best luxury Airbnb in Victoria: Vale Hill House in Ullina
  7. Best Airbnb in Melbourne: Parisian Pied-À-Terre in Melbourne

The best Airbnb in Victoria for couples

Best Airbnb Victoria for couples, Little Pines Airbnb in the Victorian Alps

01

Little Pines

Tiny home in Tawonga South

Sleeps: 2 people

Tucked away in the expansive Victorian Alps, Little Pines is the perfect Airbnb for couples after an elevated romantic getaway (no pun intended). From the sweeping views of Mount Bogong to the thoughtfully curated, Nordic-inspired interiors, this intimate space is enveloped in beauty, wherever you choose to rest your gaze.

Spend your nights cuddled up beside the fire pit, and your days basking on the sun loungers, breathing in that crisp, alpine air. And if the Victorian summer proves too warm, simply pop on the AC, choose a board game, and settle in amongst the beautiful furnishings.

As one might expect, this thoughtfully designed romantic getaway is another Airbnb Guest Favourite, boasting an average guest rating of 4.94. Nick, who stayed at Little Pines last October, writes, “We had an amazing stay! The place was spotless, cosy, and surrounded by beautiful mountain views. Perfect location, quiet, peaceful, and just a short drive to town.” Chloe, who visited the Airbnb in September, shares, “Little Pines was super cozy yet felt so luxurious – the quality & build were incredible,” adding that, “The shower had amazing water pressure, which was such a treat after long days out.

Key features:

  • Air-conditioned
  • Fire pit and BBQ grill
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Sweeping mountain views
  • Luxurious Nordic-inspired interiors
  • Loft-style bed
  • Washing machine & dryer
  • WIFI

Best Airbnb in Victoria for families

Best Airbnb Victoria for families, the River Road Farmhouse Airbnb in Coral Bank

02

The River Road Farmhouse

Entire home in Coral Bank

Sleeps: 8 people

Equipped with four beautiful bedrooms and two bathrooms, The River Road Farmhouse is large enough to comfortably accommodate families of up to eight people and boasts enough amenities to keep the kids entertained for the entire trip. Explore the library, unwind on the outdoor swing bed, head to the court for a spot of tennis, or treat yourself to a relaxing bubble bath; there’s no shortage of things to do.

Situated on a hidden rise in the heart of the Victorian High Country, the stay is rather secluded, but don’t expect that to bother you; between a perfect 5-star average rating on Airbnb and many raving reviews, it’s clear that former guests have all been more than happy to make this farmhouse the star of their vacations.

At the start of January, Hugh stayed at the River Road farmhouse and wrote of his experience there, “This is hands down the best Airbnb I’ve ever stayed at. A sentiment shared by our whole group. The house is beautiful and so well furnished. The breathtaking surrounds, the peace by the river. If you can stay here, look no further.”

Key features:

  • Private backyard
  • Outdoor dining area and BBQ grill
  • Fire pit
  • Tennis court
  • Nearby river
  • Air conditioning
  • Books, TV, & Bluetooth sound system
  • Nespresso coffee maker
  • WIFI

Best pet-friendly Airbnb in Victoria

Rustic Bush Escape, ranked as the best Pet Friendly Airbnb in Victoria 2026

03

Rustic Bush Escape

Entire cabin in Glenburn

Sleeps: 4 people

Nestled in the natural beauty of Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, this charming, secluded stay proves that finding a dog-friendly Airbnb doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, charm, or experiences. With a fully fenced outdoor area, complete with an outdoor kitchenette, shower, sun loungers, and a BBQ grill, it’s never been easier to immerse yourself and your pets in Victoria’s breathtaking rural landscape. Turn your gaze to the expansive fields surrounding this property, and you might just find kangaroos, along with the horses and rescue sheep looked after by your host.

With an average rating of 4.96 stars and sitting in the top 10% of Victoria Airbnb listings based on ratings, reviews, and reliability, this rustic gem has well and truly earned the title of guest favourite.

One vacationer writes, “My husband and I had the most magical getaway at the cabin,” going on to add, “The layout is beautifully unique, with thoughtful touches throughout. Everything was sparkling clean, and the surroundings were peaceful and quiet. The cabin is dog-friendly and is fully fenced, so we were able to enjoy it with our dogs worry-free.”

Key features:

  • Pet-friendly with a fenced area
  • Breakfast provided
  • Air conditioned
  • Outdoor shower and kitchenette
  • Sun loungers and BBQ grill
  • WIFI

Best Airbnb with an outdoor pool

Best Airbnb Victoria with an outdoor pool, Oakstone Estate Mornington

04

Oakstone Estate

Entire guesthouse in Mornington

Sleeps: 2 people

Those searching for a truly indulgent Airbnb in Victoria need look no further than this breathtaking guesthouse situated in Mornington, complete with a private heated pool.

Surrounded by the area’s famous wineries, natural parks, and sprawling coasts (with Melbourne a mere 60-minute drive away), there are plenty of things to see and do. However, we expect you’ll spend most of your time enjoying the property, with its thoughtfully curated interiors, picturesque private pool, hot tub, and many other top-tier amenities.

This luxurious guesthouse has been dubbed ‘one of the most loved homes on Airbnb,’ and after combing through the 210 reviews, which add up to an average rating of 4.99, it’s clear to see that the title is well deserved. Kylie, who stayed at Oakstone Estate last November, writes “We had a wonderful stay, the guesthouse was immaculate and even better than the photos. The design and styling were simply stunning, and the surrounding environment and facilities were gorgeous and plentiful. We especially loved the thoughtful touches, like the complimentary bottle of champers and the outdoor fireplace, which made the stay feel extra special.”

Key features:

  • Private backyard with a heated pool, hot tub, and dining area
  • Tennis and basketball courts
  • Sun loungers
  • Garden and pool views
  • Air conditioning
  • 55-inch HDTV and streaming platforms
  • Luxurious interiors

Best luxury Airbnb in Victoria

Best Luxury Airbnb Victoria, Vale Hill House Ullina

05

Vale Hill House

Entire home in Ullina

Sleeps: 8 people

This self-described rural Victorian icon, otherwise known as Vale Hill House, is the perfect luxury Airbnb for those with champagne tastes to unwind and reset.

Styled by the late Stuart Rattle, each room is adorned with decadent homewares, adding to the opulence of this expansive build. Once you’ve explored the interior, step outside and take in the stay’s formal terraced gardens, paddocks housing friendly alpacas and sheep, and one of Victoria’s largest edible gardens.

Dubbed by Airbnb as one of their ‘Luxe’ homes, which officially classifies this stay as an extraordinary stay that’s been vetted for quality, you can rest assured that the accommodation is just as lovely in real life as it is in its pictures. Cynthia, who was a guest at Vale Hill House last December, writes, “We had a lovely ladies/daughters weekend, and all thoroughly enjoyed our time at Vale Hill. It was probably one of the most beautiful and scenic places we have ever stayed. Very close to Daylesford and Creswick, which have some gorgeous stores to explore.”

Key features:

  • Private pool
  • Sun loungers
  • Outdoor dining area and BBQ grill
  • Fire pit
  • Split-type, ductless air conditioning
  • Sweeping panoramic views
  • WIFI

The most unique Airbnb in Victoria

Most Unique Airbnb Victoria, Steam: Vintage Train Carriage in Forrest

06

Steam: Vintage Train Carriage

Entire home in Forrest

Sleeps: 8 people

Whether you’re interested in trains, history, or simply love character-filled accommodation, we’ve found the Victoria Airbnb for you. When visiting this unique stay, guests are set up inside a restored first-class carriage from a steam train that was used across New South Wales and Victoria from 1926 to 1980 before being retired to a rail yard in Collingwood. Since being repurposed in 2014, it now lives a new life as a charming three-bedroom stay in Forrest.

Since winning an Airbnb Host Award for the Best Unique Stay in 2023, Fleur, the design-minded host, has continued to improve and upgrade this quirky locomotive, and three years later, it’s just as beautiful as ever. Currently, the Steam Vintage Train Carriage is ranked as one of the most loved homes on Airbnb, boasting an average rating of 4.92.

Skye, who visited this Airbnb back in April last year, writes, “This is a holiday rental done right! Beautiful accommodation steeped in history. Everything thoughtfully put together; beautiful bed linen, fully equipped kitchen, fabulous internal and external living areas and a gorgeous garden. We even had a koala in the tree next door! Walking distance to the brewery, general store and a number of walking or mountain biking trails nearby.”

Key features:

  • Fenced private patio and backyard
  • Outdoor dining area and BBQ grill
  • Hammock
  • Cot
  • Board games, books, and toys
  • Central air conditioning
  • French press coffee maker
  • Pets allowed
  • WIFI

Best Airbnb in Melbourne

Best Airbnb Victoria for Melbourne City Parisian Pied a Terres in Melbourne

07

Parisian Pied-À-Terre

Entire rental unit in Melbourne

Sleeps: 2 people

With views of the iconic Flinders Street Station, this delightfully French one-bedroom apartment brings Europe to you. Our top choice of Melbourne Airbnbs boasts thoughtfully designed interiors inspired by the 19th-century Queen Anne Renaissance Style and traditional Parisian Pied-À-Terres. Add luxurious linens, plenty of entertainment options, and plenty of other luxe amenities and the result is a stay that captures complete and total luxury.

Boasting a near-perfect 4.99-star average rating, this stay is another one of Airbnb’s Guest Favourites. Schminkee, who stayed here last December, writes, “From the moment you open the front door. The apartment is impeccable; so elegant, clean, and perfectly styled with designer elements written all over it.”

Sophie, who also enjoyed her stay at the end of last year shared “I absolutely loved staying here; I was in town for a couple of days for a wedding and was able to easily go shopping, go for a run around the tan, visit the NGV on a whim and grab amazing food and coffee within a couple of mins from the Airbnb. The apartment design is very special and made me feel like I was a traveller in a city that I know very well.”

Key features:

  • Melbourne skyline view
  • Central location
  • Luxuriously decorated interiors
  • Air conditioning
  • HDTV with streaming services
  • Coffee maker
  • Lift

Plan the perfect summer vacation in Victoria

Should you stay in an Airbnb?

We highly recommend opting for an Airbnb for your next holiday accommodation; they’re often much more affordable than hotels, and offer more value for money. What’s more, Airbnb’s extensive accommodation options allow travellers to find options that suit their unique preferences, rather than being confined to city destinations with large hotel chains.

With Airbnb, guests can book a farmhouse with friendly cows and alpacas, an elaborate mansion, a minimalist tiny house, a cabin by their favourite fishing spot, and many other niche stays. By finding the right one, travellers can make the place they stay a part of their overall experience, rather than choosing a generic hotel room as their base.

What should vacationers look for when choosing an Airbnb in Victoria?

Look for Airbnb stays that align with your interests and tie in with the mood you want to set for your holiday; if you’re outdoorsy, opt for a mountain cabin nestled among hiking trails or a spot on the beach. If you prefer the hustle and bustle of cities, book accommodation in the heart of Melbourne, where all the best arts festivals, concerts, and galleries are easily accessible. And if you’re planning a family trip, think about trying out a farm stay that offers animal encounters to entertain the kids, and scenic views to help parents relax and unwind.

However, it’s equally important to consider practicality. Will you be driving? If not, are you close enough to the nearest town to stay stocked up on supplies? Are the activities you enjoy available at your proposed destination? These are all crucial questions to ask yourself before committing to a specific spot.

What are the most popular holiday destinations in Victoria

Melbourne is the most popular holiday destination in Victoria, but there are plenty of picturesque alternatives to explore if you’d like to get away from the city. The Victorian Alps are home to many quaint little towns that travellers adore, and Mornington is a well-connected but laid-back destination for those who want something a little less bustling than Melbourne, but more exciting than Victoria’s truly rural towns.

When is the best time to visit Victoria?

Victoria is lovely and warm, although a tad busier, from November to February. Unless you’re a fan of the cold, avoid planning your visit for winter; the Melbourne weather is famously temperamental, and this state’s colder days are particularly chilly.

Where are the best spots to visit in Victoria?

Some of the most popular spots to visit in Victoria are Melbourne, Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley, the Dandenong Ranges, Mornington Peninsula, and Philip Island.

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1260314 Little Pines Airbnb Victorian Alps Tawonga South Best Airbnb in Victoria for couples Entire home in Coral Bank, Australia Best Airbnb in Victoria for Families Best pet friendly Airbnb in Victoria, Rustic Bush Escape in Glenburn Oakstone Estate Mornington Victoria Airbnb, ranked best Airbnb in Victoria with pool Vale Hill House Best Luxury Airbnb Victoria Steam Vintage Train Carriage Forrest Best Unique Airbnb in Victoria Parisian Pied ATerre Luxury on Degraves St Best Melbourne Airbnb homebeautiful-1260314
How to look after your backyard this summer https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/outdoor-ideas/gardens/how-to-look-after-your-backyard-this-summer/ Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:19:43 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/how-to-look-after-your-backyard-this-summer With warmer than average temperatures predicted across the country, here's how to preserve and protect your precious garden when it's hot.

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At this time of year, things are really heating up. While the warmer temperatures might be uncomfortable for you, your backyard is also going to need a little extra TLC.  

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecasted warmer than average temperatures, including overnight, with rainfall expected to be below average for Australians residing in parts of the west and inland parts of the east. While expected rainfall in much of the east coast and south is yet to become clear, it’s best to prepare for the worst as you keep an eye on what’s to come. October to April is also peak thunderstorm season, increased chance of heatwaves, which can cause plants to wilt, scorch and reduce growth.

Not only do Aussies need to preserve their own health in the heat, but they also need to protect their yards. Angie Thomas, Horticulture Consultant to Yates has revealed her top tips.

Garden path lined with lush green plants and a white flowering vine on a pergola, adjacent to a house.
(Credit: Photography: Martina Gemmola )

What to do if you’re going on holiday

If you’re travelling to visit family and friends this summer and want to return to a live garden, water your plants thoroughly and deeply before applying a three to five-centimetre layer of mulch to the top of pots and garden beds to help reduce moisture loss from the soil. 

If a neighbour can water your plants for you, group your potted plants together to make it easier for them (you can put indoor pot plants together in the bath tub). Move tender plants to a shaded spot where they are protected from harsh sun and will benefit from any natural rainfall. Place saucers under vulnerable potted plants, like hydrangeas, to catch excess water for them to drink on hot and dry days.

No matter the size of your property, the elements for a Hamptons style garden can be incorporated to stunning effect. (Photographer: Sue Stubbs)

Prepare for dry conditions

With hot, dry conditions expected, spray plants and seedlings with a drought shield to help reduce water loss from leaves and increase your plant’s chances of survival. 

An application of soil wetter around the root zone in garden beds and potted plants will help get water where it’s needed by breaking down the waxy water-repellent layer that can develop on soil surfaces.

You can also mix water storage crystals into the soil before planting. For existing plants, spoon a few pre-hydrated crystals into vertical holes poked down into the root area. 

Groundcover of young Pratia pedunculata joins sandstone steppers that lead visitors through the garden to the entry portico and front door
(Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott)

Beware bug and storm season

Lawn grubs can rapidly destroy an entire lawn – not what you want during the season of backyard cricket! Armyworm caterpillars can also ruin large patches of lawn in late summer by stripping grass foliage.

You can protect the lawn and control curl grubs and armyworm by treating with a lawn insecticide.

Where thunderstorms are expected, apply a lawn fertiliser towards the end of the wet season to replace the nutrients in your luscious lawn that were washed away by heavy rains. 

Southern Highlands NSW garden with neatly mowed lawn

(Credit: Photography: Abbie Melle)

Keep your vegies alive in the heat

To keep your homegrown salad bowl fresh, if potted vegies start to get too hot and wilt, move them into a more shaded spot. Lettuce, rocket, parsley, mint, basil, and silverbeet will all tolerate partial shade, with morning sun and afternoon shade being ideal.

In tropical zones, cherry tomatoes, watermelon, eggplant, lettuce, cucumber, and Asian greens like Bok choy are great to sow now.

Combat fruit flies

Delicious and juicy fruit is perfect for a warm summer, so make sure to keep those pesky fruit flies at bay by using a bait. Look for one that is certified for use in organic gardening, as it will be derived from naturally occurring soil bacteria. Apply it to the lower trunk, foliage or a piece of plywood. Don’t forget to remove any fallen fruit to help deter fruit fly infestations.

To promote sweet and juicy fruit this summer, mulch strawberries and other berries with sugar cane or pea straw to help keep roots cooler and reduce moisture loss from the soil. 

Veggie garden in Southern Highlands home
Conceived during COVID-19 lockdown, this veggie garden at interior designer Melinda Hartwright’s property is a source of pride for her and husband, Tom. (Photography: Abbie Melle)

Deter tiny pests

Garden pests like mites will be more of a common problem this summer thanks to higher temperatures. So too are caterpillars, aphids and whitefly.

Look out for mottled leaves and spidery webs created by mites, leaf holes left by caterpillars and yellowing plants from sap sucking aphids and whitefly. Carefully apply a spray to control the most common pests on roses, flowers, vegetables and citrus. Water plants well beforehand, then apply the spray in the cool of the early evening.

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1016073 blackburn-garden-design (1) No matter the size of your property, the elements for a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homestolove.com.au/weatherboard-hamptons-home-southern-highlands-22373" rel="noopener">Hamptons style garden</a> can be incorporated to stunning effect. boston-ivy-garden-sydney-garden-backyard-pavers-hedges Southern Highlands NSW garden with neatly mowed lawn Veggie garden in Southern Highlands home Conceived during COVID-19 lockdown, this veggie garden at interior designer Melinda Hartwright's property is a source of pride for her and husband, Tom. homebeautiful-1016073
This healing vegetable garden teaches kids important life lessons https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/outdoor-ideas/vegetable-garden/ Thu, 08 Jan 2026 03:59:09 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284484 Dirty hands lead to clear minds in this tranquil vegetable garden.

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There’s a certain joy that comes with spaces that foster a sense of togetherness. And it’s hard to imagine a better spot to gather than Quondong Homestead’s vegetable garden in Victoria’s Rutherglen region.

Lush vegetable garden path with green and red foliage, a rustic trellis, and bright sky overhead.
Ground bed structures include netting and a tomato frame made from found branches. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

“We have a lot of our bigger family celebrations out there,” says owner Kait, who loves spending time on the property with her husband Marcus and their children Oli, 10, Jack, nine, Lucy, four, and Bella, three. “There’s so much space for people to come together and connect, or… go off and have fun.”

Adults and children in a vegetable garden interacting with plants on a sunny day.
Owner Kait and two of her children, Lucy and Bella, reap the fruits of their labours with landscape designer Kathleen. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

That principle of connection is at the heart of Quondong. The 30-acre property now serves a multitude of families, as the home of The Play Way, a nature-based therapeutic space where families, and particularly children with disabilities, can learn and thrive. “We know the power of getting children out in nature and how much that can support them in regulating their nervous system and… feeling their best,” says Kait, an occupational therapist.

Two boys in a vegetable garden, one examining plants in raised beds under an archway of leaves.
Kait’s sons, Jack and Oli, are hard at work inspecting the crops. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

“Working with your hands and being out in nature… supports your body to feel relaxed” – Kait, homeowner

After purchasing the property in March 2020, Kait and Marcus called on landscape designer Kathleen Murphy to help turn the rundown homestead into an adventure playground, with nooks for relaxation and imaginative play, bike- and wheelchair-friendly paths for exploring and, the star of the show: the vegetable garden.

A child holds a strawberry between fingers, smiling in soft focus in the background.
Kait’s son Jack finds treasure in the strawberry patch. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Behind the vegetable garden design

This is the heart of the property, with garden beds and fruit trees, free-ranging chooks, grapevine-shaded arbours and seating spaces. “That’s where the magic happens,” says Kait, who finds children checking on chooks and nibbling on food.

Two chickens walking through a garden path, surrounded by leafy greens and orange flowers.
Chickens wander between the raised beds, a mix of timber and corten steel. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Kathleen designed the space for flexible use, and particularly for kids of all sizes. She also repurposed an existing shed as the centre of growing operations. It has potting benches and soil bins at varied heights. Garden beds range from ground-level rows to raised planters.

Young child in a pink dress plays at a wooden outdoor play station under the sun.
Kait’s youngest daughter Bella busily plans her next project in the garden shed. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

“It’s meant to feel natural and organic,” says Kathleen. This design style – structured, but relaxed – marries beautifully with a rustic palette of timber, rust-toned corten steel, shaggy fringes of ivy and patinaed objects, treasure-hunted from around the farm. “Quondong was a working farm for well over 100 years,” says Kathleen, who repurposed paraphernalia such as an old washing trough.

A person in a vegetable garden, smiling and holding a glass, wearing a white shirt and jeans, with trees and flowers in the background.
Kait enjoys a rare quiet moment in the strawberry patch, her favourite corner of the garden. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

The health benefits of gardening

The garden provides a full sensory experience for children, from plunging their hands into warm soil to cuddling the chickens that cluck in the shade of the old peppercorn tree. Most of all, it connects them with food thanks to a custom pizza oven by Tait Decorative Iron.

Red autumn leaves hanging over a wooden fence, illuminated by sunlight.
Boston ivy forms a flattering curtain over the garden shed, deliberately grown to disguise the more rustic elements. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

The children have a hand in every part of the process, from gathering wood and making dough, to picking produce for toppings. Even fussy eaters are emboldened by the accomplishment. The therapeutic effects aren’t news to gardeners, but for these kids, it’s revelatory – maybe even life changing.

Tour the tranquil vegetable garden

“You can have a very productive space and still have it beautiful,” explains Kathleen. Shaded by river red gums, children experience the healing power of nature through the simple joy of gardening, orchestrated by occupational therapist Kait of The Play Way.

A lush vegetable garden with leafy plants, soil pathways, and a backdrop of trees in a natural setting.
Kait donates excess produce to the local food bank. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Landscape designer Kathleen Murphy supplemented raised beds with rows of ground-level gardens. The latter beds are packed with leafy greens such as pak choy, kale and cabbages. Espaliered pink lady apples grow along the corten steel fence.

Red flowers in a lush vegetable garden with trees in the background.
Red dahlias add a pop of colour. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Kait’s kids love all the produce. The strawberries are their pick of the bunch, grown in raised planters for easier access.

Lush vegetable garden with greenery, trees, and a wooden trellis under a clear blue sky.
Natural materials add charm to functional vegetable garden structures. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Diverse materials and bed heights create a garden that’s structured but organic, united by a palette of timber and corten steel.

Pomegranate hanging from branch with green and yellowing leaves.
Pomegranates are among the fruiting trees planted around the property. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

The use of corten steel is echoed in the fence and a gate custom made by Tait Decorative Iron.

A metal fence with green leaves growing through it, set against a blurred natural background.
Apples grow along the corten steel fence. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Ground bed structures include netting and a tomato frame made from found branches.

Vegetable garden with green plants covered by mesh frames, set against a background of trees and sunlight.
Netting protects the precious goods. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

“We wanted to create spaces where the kids felt safe and they had the freedom to explore” – Kait, homeowner

Branch with dark green leaves and small white flowers in soft focus, against a blurred, light green background.
A loquat tree provides a new flavour for most, with the fruit producing a mix of sweet and tart notes. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Explore the alfresco areas

An alfresco living area provides a necessary place to relax amid the hustle and bustle of the working vegetable garden. “Many of the kids struggle with social engagement and endurance,” explains Kait. Here, they find reprieve on the Coco Republic ‘Navagio’ sofas, sourced by Rees & Rees in Wangaratta. This peaceful area is situated underneath the arbour, shrouded in gorgeous grapevines .

Pergola covered with red and green grapevines in a lush vegetable garden setting with benches and a barrel nearby.
Boston ivy is deciduous plant, meaning the foliage transforms as the seasons change.(Photography: Marnie Hawson)

“If it’s really busy in the garden shed and the kids need a little bit more space, this is a lovely chillout zone” – Kait, homeowner

Rees & Rees in Wangaratta sourced much of the furniture, including the Coco Republic ‘Navagio’ sofas.

Outdoor seating with a black chair, wooden barrel, and vine-covered pergola in a garden setting.
The gentle curves of the Coco Republic sofas mimic the soft, organic feel of the garden. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Teaching cooking skills with a pizza oven

The woodfired pizza oven, designed and made by Tait Decorative Iron, is the centre of activities at Quondong.

Lush vegetable garden scene with red and green vines on trellises, surrounded by greenery under a clear blue sky.
A bocce court next to the vegetable patch is one of many activities that engage the kids. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Children forage in the garden for toppings – even raiding the chicken coop for the odd egg – then settle down to eat under the arbour (also made by Neil Tait). This is festooned with grapevines for shade in summer and dappled light in winter.

A vegetable garden with raised beds, lush greenery, and autumn leaves, set under a clear sky with sunlight filtering through.
Deciduous plantings ensure beauty and interest year-round. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

“So many of the kids are really fussy eaters, but exposing them to food and where it comes from and getting them involved in the process, they become so proud of what they’ve achieved and so much more willing to try things that they otherwise wouldn’t try,” says Kait. “If they get their senses ignited, it’s exploring; they’re not focused on ‘I don’t eat that’ and they’ll try things they would never normally try.”

Watermelon on a brown patio table with blurred greenery in the background.
The best part of growing is eating your produce, which do around this beautiful table, designed and made by Neil Tait at Tait Decorative Iron. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Source book

Landscape design: Kathleen Murphy Landscape Design, kmldesign.com.
Therapy program: The Play Projects, theplayprojects.com.

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

The post This healing vegetable garden teaches kids important life lessons appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284484 vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-vine-tree vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-family vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-kids vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-strawberry vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-chickens vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-child vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-owner vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-red-leaves vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-landscape vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-garden-beds vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-portrait vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-fruit vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-fence vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-vegetables vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-native-flower vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-alfresco-living vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-vine vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-vine-red vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-beds vegetable-garden-veggie-garden-therapy-watermelon as seen in HB_4 homebeautiful-1284484
A gardener’s guide to growing hydrangeas in Australia https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/outdoor-ideas/growing-hydrangeas-in-australia/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 23:42:18 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282856 This easy guide to growing hydrangeas
reaps armfuls of flowers for years to come.

The post A gardener’s guide to growing hydrangeas in Australia appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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There’s a certain magic to hydrangeas, the sort that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. One moment the garden is all leaf and promise, the next it’s transformed into a painter’s palette of blushing pinks, soft blues and creamy white petals, as though someone has spilt a box of watercolours across its borders. Hydrangeas bloom with the self-assuredness of plants that know they’re beloved – sufficiently timeless to have graced our grandparents’ gardens – yet bold enough to hold their own in contemporary planting schemes.

I have always thought hydrangeas have a personality: generous, theatrical in summer, occasionally unpredictable and utterly dependable once you understand their moods. They thrive on a moderate dose of care and conversation, and in return they’ll fill your garden with billowing clouds of flowers that turn with the seasons. Place them where you can admire them from your favourite chair – hydrangeas love putting on a show for anyone who’s willing to watch.

A guide to growing Hydrangeas in Australia

Types of Hydrangeas

Lacecap hydrangeas have a delicate beauty. (Credit: Photography: Allie Aszodi )

Hydrangeas come in many forms, each with its own character. Mopheads and lacecaps are the most familiar: mopheads with their blousy, spherical flower heads and lacecaps with their delicate, flat heads framed by a ring of florets.

Then you have all the architectural drama of paniculatas, with their tall, conical flower heads that age from creamy white to soft pink. Oakleaf hydrangeas bring extra personality with deeply lobed leaves that turn fiery in autumn; while smooth hydrangeas, like the legendary‘Annabelle’, reward gardeners with enormous snowball-like blooms, even in cool-climate gardens.

Best soil for hydrangeas

Alkaline soils encourage pink hydrangea flowers – simply ‘sweeten’ acidic soil by adding garden lime or dolomite to increase its pH level. (Credit: Photography: Allie Aszodi )

And then there’s the magic of colour. In Hydrangea macrophylla, flowers respond to your soil’s pH levels: acidic soils encourage blues and purples; alkaline soils reap pink blooms. White hydrangeas, however, remain elegantly indifferent – the neutral observers of the garden stage.

If your hydrangea insists on pink when you were hoping for blue, take a deep breath – it’s just showing off its independence. A little soil tweak with sulfur or acidic compost should nudge it in the right direction. Conversely, a touch of garden lime will help promote pink flowers.

Climate

Mophead hydrangeas rise gallantly above cascading Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ in this garden, designed by Ashley, in a home on the Mornington Peninsula. (Credit: Photography: Allie Aszodi )

Hydrangeas are deciduous and easy to grow providing you honour their needs. Most thrive in morning sun with afternoon shade and enjoy rich, well-draining soil. Mulch around the base to keep roots cool and moist, and water regularly, especially in hot, dry weather – they like a proper afternoon tea – but don’t let them sit with soggy feet.

How to prune hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are striking when planted en masse or as a deciduous border. (Credit: Photography: Allie Aszodi )

Pruning may feel daunting, but it’s simple if you know the rules: mopheads and oakleafs flower on old wood, so only lightly trim them after they bloom; paniculatas and smooth hydrangeas bloom on new wood, so prune them harder in late winter.

Cutting back mopheads can feel like farewelling your flowers, but trust me – a gentle trim right after they bloom won’t bruise their ego. Some slow-release fertiliser in spring also helps encourages generous blooms.

Hydrangeas make a garden feel alive. They suit every style, from romantic cottage plots to modern minimalism, and their flowers lend themselves to fresh bouquets and dried arrangements. Some years they’re bashful and shy, other years they sing their presence across the garden. Roll with it and they’ll reward you season after season.

In a world of ever-demanding plants, hydrangeas are delightfully forgiving – resilient and endlessly captivating. So, next time you wander past one, pause to admire it. After all, a garden without a little magic is just a patch of green.

How to revive hydrangeas that have wilted in a vase

Bring your drooping blooms back to life with this simple trick:

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
  2. Trim about 1-2 cm off the stem ends with a sharp knife.
  3. Slice each stem end in half lengthwise by 3-4cm.
  4. Immediately place the prepared stems in the boiling water for 15-30 mins.
  5. Transfer to a vase with fresh water and watch them perk up.
  6. Click the post below to watch this trick in action!

The post A gardener’s guide to growing hydrangeas in Australia appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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4 delicious ways to transform panettone https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/entertaining/panettone/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:46:05 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284442 Don’t let that festive panettone go stale!

The post 4 delicious ways to transform panettone appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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The holidays are over, and that beautiful panettone still sits untouched on your sideboard. We get it, sometimes the season ends before the cravings do. But don’t toss it! This Italian classic is a gift that keeps on giving. With a little creativity, you can reinvent it into indulgent desserts that feel fresh, fun, and utterly fabulous. Bookmark these ideas for next year too, and you’ll thank us when the festive rush hits again.

panettone perduto
(Credits: Skye McAlpine)

Tried and tested (digested?!) by the Home Beautiful team, golden, custardy slices of panettone fried to perfection will make this your new brunch hero with a sweet Italian twist.

Chocolate hazelnut ice cream pandoro

Dress up a plain pandoro with simple, store-bought ingredients like ice-cream and berries for a dessert that’s pure elegance.

Raspberry limoncello bomb
(Credits: Photography: Con Poulos / Styling: Steve Pearce)

Raspberry limoncello bomb

A frozen showstopper bursting with tangy raspberries and zesty limoncello. Panettone never looked so chic.

Fruit trifle in a trifle dish on a table decorated for Christmas.
(Credits: Photography: John Paul Urizar | Recipe & Styling: Michele Cranston | Food preparation: Dixie Elliott)

Grilled fruit trifle with panettone and sugared almonds

Layers of creamy custard, juicy fruit, and torn panettone chunks make this trifle a true holiday encore, and the laissez‑faire assembly is the stylish answer to entertaining fatigue.

The post 4 delicious ways to transform panettone appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284442 panettone perduto Chocolate hazelnut ice-cream pandoro Raspberry Limoncello Bomb fruit-trifle-recipe homebeautiful-1284442
Make light work of everyday mess with these top-rated stick vacuums https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/best-stick-vacuums-australia/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:05:26 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284425 The tools you need to simplify your cleaning routine

The post Make light work of everyday mess with these top-rated stick vacuums appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Maintaining spotless floors is one of those small details that instantly elevates a home, yet the act of vacuuming is one of the most demanding parts of daily upkeep. From high-traffic hallways to crumbs that seem to appear moments after you have cleaned, it doesn’t take much for floors to lose their shine. And when your vacuum lacks the power to keep up, the task quickly becomes more frustrating than satisfying.

That’s why, in 2026, we’re making the switch to powerful, top-rated stick vacuums, and we highly recommend you do the same.

Lightweight, beautifully designed and far more powerful than their predecessors, the new wave of stick vacuums is made to handle the realities of busy homes without compromising on style or ease. So, if you want to cut hours off your cleaning routine, it’s time you discovered the stick vacuums that truly rise to the challenge, making everyday cleaning feel a little less like a chore and a whole lot more effortless.

Tip: For low-effort cleaning and spotless floors, pair your new stick vacuum with one of these robot vacuums for under $500; the robot takes care of daily maintenance, and you tackle the finishing touches.

Australia’s best stick vacuums of 2026

  1. Overall best stick vacuum: Dyson Gen5 Detect Absolute Stick Vacuum, Dyson
  2. Best stick vacuum for pet hair: Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Pro Vacuum, Kogan
  3. Best stick vacuum for family homes: Dreame Z30 Station Stick Vacuum and Dock, Dreame
  4. Best robot vacuum under $200: Xiaomi G20 Lite Wireless Stick Vacuum Cleaner, Xiaomi
  5. Best stick vacuum for low effort cleaning: LG CordZero Handstick Vacuum with All-in-One Tower, Amazon
Product image of the number 1 best stick vacuum in Australia 2025, Dyson Gen5 Detect Absolute Stick Vacuum

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Dyson Gen5 Detect Absolute Stick Vacuum

$876 ( was $1549) at Dyson

Australia’s #1 best stick vacuum of 2026

The widely loved Dyson Gen5Detect Absolute Stick Vacuum has well and truly earned its spot as Australia’s #1 best stick vacuum, thanks to its ability to make everyday cleaning feel both effortless and oddly satisfying. Designed to tackle fine dust and larger debris with equal precision, this high-tech stick vacuum uses laser technology to reveal particles you would otherwise miss, particularly on hard floors and in low-light areas. Once you see the dust, its powerful suction ensures it is gone in a single pass.

Beyond performance, the design feels thoughtful and intuitive. It is lightweight yet substantial, moves seamlessly between floor types and easily converts for detailed cleaning on stairs, shelves and upholstery. Advanced filtration helps capture microscopic particles, leaving the air noticeably cleaner after use. If you are investing in one stick vacuum to handle the demands of a busy home, this is the model that sets the benchmark.

And with over 8700 5-star reviews, you can invest knowing it’s a great investment. One satisfied customer shares, “I used my new Dyson a few times now, and I’m loving it. The new technology is amazing. I love all the different brushes and their efficiency for the particular jobs,” later adding that the difference between Dyson’s Gen5Detect and their older model is “incredible.”

Comes with:

  • Fluffy Optic cleaner head
  • Hair screw tool
  • Digital Motorbar cleaner head
  • Combination tool
  • Wall dock
  • Charger
  • Built-in dusting and crevice tool

Key features:

  • Dyson’s deepest, most hygienic clean and most powerful suction
  • LCD screen shows when the floor is clean
  • HEPA filtration
  • Innovative anti-tangle technology
  • Multiple attachments included for optimal cleaning on all surfaces
  • Ergonomically redesigned handle
  • Three power modes
  • Transforms into a handheld vacuum

Also available from:

Product image of the best robot vacuum for pet hair in Australia 2025, the Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Pro Vacuum with Clean Sense IQ

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Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Pro Vacuum with Clean Sense IQ

$799.99 at Kogan

Best stick vacuum for tackling pet hair and allergies

If pet hair is a constant feature in your home, this is the kind of stick vacuum that earns its keep quickly. Designed with pet owners firmly in mind, the Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Pro Vacuum tackles stubborn fur on carpets, rugs and hard floors without the usual tangling or loss of suction. In fact, this stick vacuum’s anti-hair wrap brush roll actively removes long hair as it cleans, while powerful suction lifts embedded pet fur from high-traffic areas where shedding tends to linger.

What really sets it apart is Clean Sense IQ technology, which detects hidden dirt and automatically boosts power when needed, making quick work of paw prints, scattered kibble and fine dander. With HEPA filtration to help capture allergens and a cordless design that moves easily from room to room, it’s the perfect stick vacuum for homes where pets roam inside just as much as their humans do. Practical, powerful and refreshingly low-effort, it makes staying on top of pet hair feel far more manageable.

And thanks to the Stratos Pet Pro vacuum having over 500 5-star reviews, you can feel comfortable investing in this high-tech cleaning solution. One happy customer (who owns two Maine Coons with a serious shedding problem) writes, “My current vacuum could never; I’d have to manually brush their fur up from the carpet hands and knees style. This vacuum, however, only takes one glide and their hair, I kid you not, GONE!”

Comes with:

  • 20cm Crevice tool
  • Motorised pet tool
  • Multi-surface tool
  • 1x Li-ion battery
  • 1x Charger
  • Odour neutralising technology dial
  • Fragrance puck

Key features:

  • Most suction of any Shark cordless stick vacuum
  • Up to 60 minutes of runtime on one charge
  • HEPA filtration and anti-allergen complete seal technology
  • Multiflex wand and large dust cup
  • LED headlights to illuminate dust
  • 2-year warranty

Also available from:

Product image of the Dreame Z30 Station Stick Vacuum and Dock, ranked the best stick vacuum for family homes in Australia 2026

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Dreame Z30 Station Stick Vacuum and Dock

$999 at Dreame

Best stick vacuum for family homes

For busy family homes where crumbs, dust and everyday detritus seem to multiply by the minute, the Dreame Z30 Station Stick Vacuum and Dock straddles power and practicality beautifully. What makes it stand out as the best stick vacuum for family life is its all-in-one approach: the self-cleaning dock means less time on maintenance and more time enjoying a clean home, while its strong suction handles scattered snacks, pet hair and dust bunnies with enviable ease.

The Z30’s thoughtful design includes a range of useful tools that snap on in seconds, making quick work of stairs, upholstery and tight corners that are often neglected during rushed weekday cleaning. Its runtime comfortably covers larger floorplans, and its dust-auto emptying base is a game-changer for anyone who has ever tired of constantly emptying a canister. In short, this is a stick vacuum that feels made for households with momentum: busy kids, pets, morning rushes and all.

Despite having only two reviews, the model boasts a perfect 5-star average rating, with purchasers writing, “3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home, and it does it all in one go on the normal setting. The power setting is so powerful and gets all the mess off all types of surfaces!” Another simply describes it as a “brilliant” machine. Being that I own a Dreame vacuum myself, I can definitely vouch for the high quality of their products, and highly recommend you join the Dreame club, too.

Comes with:

  • Dust removal hub (with dust collection bag)
  • Illumination omni-brush
  • Motorised mini-brush
  • Combination tool
  • Soft dusting brush
  • Extension rod
  • Flexible adaptor
  • Spare dust collection bag
  • Accessory mount

Key features:

  • HEPA filtration traps dust, pollen, and viruses
  • Anti-tangle and edge cleaning technology
  • Auto empty function for automated cleaning
  • Up to 90 minutes of runtime on one charge
  • 4-hour charging time
  • 0.6L dust cup capacity
  • Comes with multiple attachments for effective cleaning on all surfaces
  • Smart particle and dust detection
  • LCD screen shows real-time cleaning data

Also available from:

Product image of the Xiaomi G20 Lite Wireless Stick Vacuum Cleaner, ranked the best cheap stick vacuum cleaner under $200

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Xiaomi G20 Lite Wireless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

$149 (was $199), at Xiaomi

Best stick vacuum cleaner under $200

If you are looking for the best budget-friendly stick vacuum that still delivers where it counts, the Xiaomi G20 Lite Wireless Stick Vacuum Cleaner is hard to beat. It proves that an effective clean doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag, offering strong suction and a lightweight build that makes everyday floor maintenance feel quick and manageable. Ideal for apartments, smaller homes or as a second vacuum, it handles hard floors and low-pile carpets with ease.

Simple to use and refreshingly no-frills, it features an easy-empty dust canister, practical attachments for corners and upholstery, and a cordless design that keeps things moving without interruption. It may be affordable, but it does not feel flimsy or underpowered. For those wanting a reliable stick vacuum on a budget, this is the one that delivers the most value for money.

If you’re sceptical of the low price, the raving reviews are bound to offer peace ofmind. With over 800 Amazon reviews that make for an average rating of 4.3 stars, it’s well-loved. One happy customer describes it as a “Budget-friendly stick vacuum that works amazingly well on our screed floors and rugs,” adding that “It picks up all the cat hair from our two cats. Battery life is great. Highly recommend.” Another seconds these sentiments, writing “It’s a big upgrade from traditional vacuums. It’s genuinely a quality-of-life improvement I never knew I needed, and at a very affordable price too. Highly recommended!”

Comes with:

  • Extension tube
  • Charging cable
  • 1-in-1 nozzle
  • Brush nozzle
  • Wall bracket

Key features:

  • Maximum of 18,000Pa suction power
  • White light dust detection technology
  • Five-stage filtration
  • Long battery life
  • One-touch dust disposal system
  • Multiple attachments for effective cleaning of various surfaces

Also available from:

Product image of the LG CordZero A9X-AUTO2 Handstick Vacuum with All-in-One Tower, ranked the best stick vacuum in Australia for effortless cleaning

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LG CordZero A9X-AUTO2 Handstick Vacuum with All-in-One Tower

$1399.00 at Amazon

Best stick vacuum for low-effort cleaning

If low-effort cleaning is the goal, the LG CordZero A9X AUTO2 Stick Vacuum is hard to overlook. Designed to take the thinking out of vacuuming, it automatically adjusts suction as it moves between different floor types, so you can clean without stopping to change settings. The result is a smooth, uninterrupted clean that feels far less demanding than traditional models. The best part? This model’s auto-empty dock, so you can keep your hands dust-free and your floors shining.

Its lightweight handstick design is easy to manoeuvre, while the generous battery life means you can move through multiple rooms without rushing or recharging mid-task. Practical attachments click on quickly for stairs, corners and upholstery, making spot cleans just as simple as full runs. For anyone who wants their home to feel consistently tidy without investing too much time or energy, this vacuum makes staying on top of floors feel refreshingly effortless

Those who own this high-tech stick vacuum are leaving rave reviews, too. With a 5-star average rating on Amazon and a 4.8-star rating on the LG website, the CordZero Handstick Vacuum has proven to be one you can trust. One customer writes, “The auto-emptying feature is amazing — it makes the whole cleaning experience so much more convenient. I also love the LED light on the nozzle, because it really shows all the dust. Most importantly, the suction power is excellent. It picks up everything so well. The design is sleek too, so overall I feel like I made a really great purchase!

Comes with:

  • 3x tower filters
  • 2x regular filters
  • 2x battery packs
  • 2-in-1 combination tool
  • Crevice tool
  • Power Drive mini attachment
  • Tower dock

Key features:

  • Automatic dust-emptying
  • LG dust compressor
  • Mobile compatibility for the removal operation
  • Dual Floor-Max nozzle with LED light
  • Up to 280W suction power
  • Auto stop and go
  • Handy accessory storage
  • 24-month warranty

Also available from:


An expert guide to stick vacuum shopping

When it comes to selecting the right robot vacuum for you, it can be challenging to distinguish which features matter and which don’t, even for those of us who have been combing the market for months. That’s why I enlisted the help of Dreame’s ANZ Category Manager, Patrick Wang, an expert in all things robot vacuum related.

What is a stick vacuum?

A stick vacuum is a lightweight and compact cleaning tool with a handheld unit and a long body. Their design makes them much more comfortable to use and considerably cuts down cleaning time due to increased maneuverability and their ergonomic designs (compared to standard models).

Many, but not all, stick vacuums are cordless, and some have self-emptying stations that further simplify one’s floor maintenance routines.

What are the benefits of stick vacuums?

Stick vacuums are compact, portable, versatile, and more comfortable to operate than older vacuum models. They’re great for anyone who wants to simplify their cleaning routine and those who experience back pain when trying to operate standard, heavy vacuums.

Is a stick vacuum better than a regular vacuum?

For those who prioritise ease, versatility, and speed, stick vacuums are likely the better option, whereas those who are after a deeper clean may want to opt for a larger, more powerful model.

What features should shoppers look for when shopping for a stick vacuum?

The most important features to look for when shopping for a stick vacuum are suction power, long battery life, maneuverability, and HEPA filtration. Those looking for advanced, high-end models may also want to consider features such as self-emptying docks and dust-detecting lasers.

How much suction power does a stick vacuum need?

A suction level of 200 air watts (AW) or higher is generally regarded as sufficient for an effective clean. However, the level of suction power needed for an effective clean can depend on the type of surfaces you’ll be cleaning. For hardwood floors and tiles, look for models above 100-150 air watts, and for carpets, aim for suction levels above 200 (and detangling technology).

How did we select the best stick vacuums in Australia for 2026?

The Home Beautiful team has been covering the best vacuum on the market for years now, and during this time, we’ve developed a clear set of criteria for our top picks, covering:
– In this case, a price under $500 (including sale prices)
– Performance and features
– Design
– Suction power, or pascals (Pa)
-Warranty coverage
– Reviews and average ratings


How we selected Australia’s best stick vacuums of 2026

Home Beautiful has been covering the best vacuum models for many years now, and, as such, we’re well versed in the features, pricing, and technology that make one model rise above the rest. When creating our lists of top vacuum models, including this piece on the best stick vacuums, we judge multiple models using a list of criteria that has been tailored to each article. For this piece, we were looking for the following:

  • Fair prices, affordability, and discounts
  • Reviews and average ratings
  • Warranty coverage
  • Performance and features
  • Suction power
  • Ease of use and automated technology

The post Make light work of everyday mess with these top-rated stick vacuums appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284425 Dyson V5 Detect Cordless Vacuum Best Stick Vacuum in Australia 2026 number 1 best Best stick vacuum Australia 2026 Shark Statos Cordless Pet Pro Vacuum With Clean Sense I Shark Clean Best stick vacuum for family homes Australia 2026 Dreame Z30 Station Stick Vacuum and Dock Xiaomi G20 Lite Wireless Stick Vacuum Cleaner Best stick vacuum cleaners Australia LG CordZero A9X-AUTO2 Handstick Vacuum with All-in-One Tower The Best Stick Vacuum in Australia 2026 homebeautiful-1284425
How people are embracing ‘analog homes’ in 2026 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/analog-home-design/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:56:56 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284418 Physical media, tangible tech and slower spaces.

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The desperate struggle to wrench our time and attention spans back from the grip of social media and other digital technologies has people turning back to ‘analog’ lifestyles. Parents have started giving their kids landlines instead of mobile phones, young people are reclaiming their free time with ‘analog bags‘ full of Sudoku books and crochet tools, and the dumb phone and digital camera have never been cooler.

Rather than being rooted in some sort of nostalgia for a previous time, the trend seems to convey the innate human need for tangibility in our lives. When our family photographs are stored in a virtual cloud, entertainment is controlled through digital subscription services, and our social interactions are increasingly involving an online platform, we can feel a sense of detachment from the things that make up the fabric of our lives.

Kara Rosenlund Brisbane Mid Century Home light
(Credit: Photography: Kara Rosenlund)

Unlike work, where screen use is generally unavoidable, your home can be a retreat from the online world. Designing spaces to support offline activities and embracing older, slower forms of technology can help reduce the addictive pull of the online world and return you to the real one.

Creating intentionally analog spaces

Interior designer Hans Lorei first brought up the concept of analog spaces back in 2024, when he described them as an antidote to digital overwhelm.

The main purpose of these spaces is to support offline activities. Whether it’s a living space that helps you host games nights, a reading nook that makes curling up with a physical book or magazine more appealing, or a craft table dedicated to creative hobbies like painting, drawing or scrapbooking, it’s all about intentionally carving out a space where you can engage with the offline activities that you enjoy.

A dark nook with a games table and woven stools.
(Credit: Photography: Martina Gemmola / Styling: Belle Hemming)

When it comes to designing an analog space, you should think about the type of activity you want to support. For conversational spaces that could also support reading and listening to music, Hans believes that low seats and soft lighting can help create a comforting ‘sense of enclosure’ in an analog space.

However, if doomscrolling on the couch is your main battle, then perhaps a table with comfortable chairs will help you find the motivation to complete a puzzle, create photo albums or work on your art.

Bringing back the computer room

Anyone who grew up in the 90s and early 2000s will remember the computer room – a dedicated space in the home for using the computer. While modern laptops, phones and tablets mean we can access the internet anywhere and anytime, they also mean that we struggle to get away from it.

(Credit: Photography: Hayley Haynes / Styling: SOUL Home)

A digital space might sound like the antithesis of an analog home, but I would argue that these spaces are just as important as analog ones for creating boundaries with digital technology. In an article for Apartment Therapy, Brittany Anas shared that creating a computer room cut her screen time by 80%. By creating a dedicated space for your computer, laptop, or smartphone, your usage is likely to be more intentional and less likely to creep into other areas of your life.

Swapping your laptop for a family-style desktop computer will also make this easier. Whether it’s located in a separate room or a more visible family zone that’s safer for children, the key is that it can’t be moved to the couch, bedroom or anywhere else you believe should be ‘screen-free.’

Embracing analog technology

Attempting to spend less time on a smart device is usually followed by the shocking realisation about how much of our lives are actually dependent upon them. From checking the time and setting alarms to typing our to-do lists into apps and saving recipes to cook later, our devices are designed to make us feel like we can’t live without them.

Yet, analog technology reminds us that we can. Replacing your phone alarm with an analog alarm or clock radio is an easy way to prevent your phone screen from being the first thing you see in the morning. Likewise, a paper planner and good old-fashioned kitchen calendar are just as worthy organisational tools as a Google Calendar or Notion board.

Books and a small plant sitting on a timber writing desk.
(Credit: Photography: Hannah Puechmarin / Styling: Hayley Jenkin)

If you’re burnt out on being beholden to streaming services, then you might join those returning to physical media and using DVD, CD, record and cassette players for their favourite films and albums. Tip: head to the op shop or local library.

Analog homes aren’t about giving up digital technology but simply about using it more intentionally and letting our space be a retreat from the noise of the online world.

The post How people are embracing ‘analog homes’ in 2026 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284418 Kara Rosenlund Brisbane Mid Century Home light luxury-holiday-home-mt-buller-bunk-room-game-table MMaybe Forever HR-57 maximalist-queenslander-renovation-study-desk homebeautiful-1284418
This stunning home office furniture will make you excited to clock in https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/best-home-office-furniture/ Tue, 06 Jan 2026 03:14:07 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284297 Make your dream workspace a reality

The post This stunning home office furniture will make you excited to clock in appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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It doesn’t matter whether you’re a remote worker or someone who spends five days a week commuting in; all households need an inspiring home office. And with the New Year having officially arrived, there’s no better time to create (or simply refresh) a workspace that inspires creativity and inspiration, and I’ve tracked down all the best home office furniture pieces to help you do so.

From beautiful desks to chairs you’ll happily sit in all day, these gorgeous furniture finds prove that practical pieces can still feel special. So, consider this your sign to upgrade your setup for 2026 and make clocking in something you actually look forward to.

How to create your dream home office


The best home office desks of 2026

When it comes to home office furniture, it’s the desks that really steal the show. Being larger pieces, desks can easily act as a statement piece or, if one chooses a smaller, more subtle option, seamlessly blend in with existing exteriors. Regardless of what your dream desk setup may look like, you’re bound to find your perfect fit in the list below.

If you’re yet to buy any other home office furniture, a desk is the perfect place to start.

The best desks for your home office

  1. Best all-rounder desk: Seb Executive Desk, Castlery
  2. Best statement desk: Ethnicraft Mahogany Roller Max Desk, Trit House
  3. Best vintage-inspired desk (under $600): Georgie Writing Desk, Temple & Webster
  4. Best desk for extra storage: Albina Left Drawer Office Desk in Walnut, Interior Secrets
  5. Best desk for small spaces: Vintage Office Desk in Teak, RJ Living
  6. Best desk for a pop of colour (under $600): Campiello Designs Vasuda Desk, FREEDOM
Product image of the Seb Executive Desk from Castlery

01

Seb Executive Desk

$1599, Castlery

#1 best home office desk

If you’re looking for a desk that can be woven in with almost all interior aesthetics, the Seb Executive Desk from Castery is the perfect choice. Crafted from beautiful, solid acacia and with plenty of drawers for storage, it hits the mark for being both beautiful and practical. Even better, this stunning piece of home office furniture can be fully customised, with four unique models to choose from and the option to add a monitor stand

The Seb Executive Desk also boasts an impressive average rating of over 4.5 stars, with one Australian customer writing, “I needed a small but stylish workstation for my home office. As I have a cottage-style semi, I also needed something that would blend function with a simple aesthetic…and I think that the Seb desk perfectly fits the brief!!” Another says that they’re “absolutely delighted; my home office looks how I imagined.”

Materials: Solid acacia

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 180cm W x 68cm D x 76cm H
  • Four drawers and two cubbies
  • Wood features unique knots and imperfections
  • Mid-century design
  • 2-person assembly recommended
  • 30-day returns
Product image of the Ethnicraft Mahogany Roller Max Desk from Trit House

02

Ethnicraft Mahogany Roller Max Desk

$1585, Trit House

Best for: those after a modern statement desk

When discussing the rising interior design trends of 2026, I covered the rise of organic shapes and forms, which the design of Trit House’s Ethnicraft Mahogany Roller Max Desk exemplifies perfectly. Crafted from solid mahogany and perfected with a varnish finish, this statement desk demands attention without overpowering your home office. And while it doesn’t feature any drawers, you’ll find two shelves worth of storage space nestled in one of its legs.

While this standout piece is made to order, meaning that we may have to wait 12-16 weeks for delivery, I think we can all agree that it’s worth the long lead time. And if you’re after something a little different (that’s equally bold and modern), peruse the other offerings from Trit House. Trust me, it’s a treasure trove for interior enthusiasts.

Materials: Solid mahogany

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 137cm W x 52cm D x 78cm H
  • Varnish finish
  • Comes with a floor protector
  • FSC-certified timbers
  • Comes fully assembled
Product image of the Georgie Writing Desk from Temple & Webster

03

Georgie Writing Desk

$589, Temple & Webster

Best vintage-inspired desk for under $600

For those looking to create cottage-inspired interiors, the affordable Georgie Writing Desk from Temple & Webster may be your perfect fit. With generous dimensions and three drawers for ample storage, it’s an all-rounder that is equal parts beautiful and practical. From the detailing on the legs to the lovely glossy finish, there’s no doubt that this home office furniture essential looks much more expensive than it is. Not a fan of white? Peruse the piece’s three colourways to find the ideal variation for your space.

If you’re wondering if you have to sacrifice quality for the low price, one glance at the reviews is bound to quell your concerns. With an average rating of 4.8 stars and numerous positive comments from happy shoppers, it’s a piece you can feel confident investing in.

One happy customer writes, “This is one of my most favourite purchases. Everyone who walks into our house compliments this desk. A beautifully crafted piece that is super classy.

Materials: Rubberwood frame and legs, MDF and birchwood body

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 160cm W x 76cm D x 76cm H
  • Three generous drawers
  • Classic French provincial style design
  • Fully finished back side
  • Pre-assembled body
Product image of the Albina Left Drawer Office Desk in Walnut from Interior Secrets

04

Albina Left Drawer Office Desk in Walnut

$1760, Interior Secrets

Best home office desk for extra storage space

As someone who adores a darker wood finish, I couldn’t look past the Albina Left Drawer Office Desk in Walnut. With organic curves and generous storage compartments, it’s a safe bet for any home office, while still adding character and drama to the space. Even better, this stunning desk also comes in Natural Oak and Black Oak finishes, so you can choose the option that best suits your existing space or build your home office around it.

Like Trit House, Interior Secrets is another store that should stay front-of-mind for anyone updating their home office furniture. With an extensive range of beautiful designs to suit all preferences and aesthetics, they’re bound to stock your perfect fit.

Colours: Walnut (pictured), Natural Oak, Black Oak

Materials: Engineered wood with a rich, walnut finish

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 177.8cm W x 63.5cm D x 75cm H
  • Left-hand drawer configuration
  • Plenty of storage
  • Rounded edges for a modern look
  • Simple assembly required
  • 30-day returns
  • 12-month warranty
Product image of the RJ Living Vintage Office Desk in Teak

05

Vintage Office Desk in Teak

$2035 $1628, RJ Living

Best home office desk for smaller spaces

Being that desks are generally the largest furniture pieces in one’s home office, it’s easy to make the mistake of choosing one that takes over your space, especially if your dedicated workspace is on the smaller side, like mine. A safe way to prevent this design faux pas is to opt for something smaller, lighter, and simpler, like the Vintage Office Desk in Teak from RJ Living. As you can see, dialling it back doesn’t mean taking home a boring desk; despite not being as bold as the other options, this piece is still just as beautiful.

With a perfect rating of 5/5 stars, it’s easy to feel confident investing in this key piece of home office furniture. Just take it from Angela, a satisfied customer who claims to be “very happy with our purchase of the vintage oak desk,” later adding, “Great quality. Customer service was excellent and arrived on time, even with recent events. Very happy customer.”

Colours: Teak (pictured), Oak

Materials: Solid Teak

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 130cm W x 70cm D x 78cm H
  • Crafted from solid teak
  • One storage drawer
  • Simple assembly requires
Product image of the Campiello Designs Vasuda Desk from Freedom

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Campiello Designs Vasuda Desk

$699 $560, FREEDOM

Best colourful home office desk

If you’re tired of classic wood finishes, Campiello Designs’ Vasuda Desk offers the perfect way to add colour to your home office (for a very reasonable price). We’ve previously covered the evolution of earth-toned interiors and how they’re expected to dominate interiors in 2026, and the Vasuda Desk serves as a simple means to integrate this timeless trend into your home.

With a beautiful green finish, fluted front panel, and contemporary design, this home office furniture favourite will weave in with most interior styles while adding a touch of playfulness to the space. If you’re hoping to make your workspace a little more joyful for the new year, it might just be your perfect fit.

Materials: 80% engineered wood, 20% solid oak, with beech wood legs

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 120cm W x 60cm D x 75cm H
  • Two spacious drawers
  • Fluted front panel
  • Light, contemporary design
  • 2-person assembly recommended

The best home office chairs of 2026

While I previously stated that desks are the most crucial piece of home office furniture, they’re practically unusable without a complementary office chair. However, choosing the right fit is no small task; we must consider comfort, style, and how well each option would pair with our desks. To guide your decision-making, I’ve rounded up some of the best office chairs that Australia has to offer, with options catering to all budgets, aesthetics, and preferences.

My top tip for shopping for the perfect home office chair? Make sure you’re considering design and comfort. After all, noone wants to spend their workday confined to a stiff, uncomfortable chair.

The best chairs for your home office

  1. Best all rounder office chair: Joyce Office Chair, Vorsen
  2. Best office chair for comfort and adjustability: Everyday Chair, Recess
  3. Best design-led office chair: The Lair Dining Chair, Trit House
  4. Best office chair under $200: Stevens PU Leather Office Chair, Temple & Webster
  5. Best faux leather office chair: Dante Brandy Desk Chair, Adairs
Product image of the Vorsen Joyce Office Chair

01

Joyce Office Chair

$460 $391, Vorsen

#1 best home office chair

If you are after an office chair that feels more considered than corporate, the Joyce delivers. Its softly curved silhouette and refined upholstery give it a sculptural presence, while thoughtful ergonomic details ensure it holds up to long days at the desk. It is the kind of chair that blends seamlessly into a beautifully styled space, rather than shouting “home office.”

With a perfect 5-star rating, it’s an investment piece you can feel confident making. One satisfied customer praises the “excellent product & excellent, fast service.” Another writes, “exceptional quality, very comfortable and stylish chair with the functionality needed for a home office; the bucket style backrest provides ample support to lean back. We love this product!

Colours: Vintage Green PU Leather (pictured), Ivory Fabric, Ivory Fabric & Matt White Frame, Dark Grey Fabric, Blush Beige PU Leather, Vintage Tan PU Leather,

Materials: PU Leather

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 59m W x 60cm D x 80cm H
  • Firm tub-style seat
  • Adjustable height and swivel base
  • Simple assembly required
  • 12-month warranty
Product Image of the Recess Everyday Chair

02

Recess Everyday Chair

$345, Recess

Best office chair for comfort, support, and adjustability

If you’re looking for an all-rounder, the Recess Everyday Chair is the effortlessly versatile addition your home office needs. Clean lines and a pared-back profile make it easy to style across different interiors, while its comfortable proportions mean it works just as well for focused work as it does for casual use. A quiet achiever that earns its place in any modern home office.

The best part? This is another office chair with a perfect 5-star rating. In fact, 99% of customers say they’d recommend this product, and after reading the reviews, this comes as no surprise. One customer writes, “It was easy to assemble and has saved my back. I love that you can adjust the height of the armrests. It was exactly what I was looking for, and has solved the issue I was having with my dominant arm. It’s saved me a lot of money in physio fees.”

Colours: Eucalyptus (pictured), Night, Slate, Full Moon, Hyams Sand Vegan Leather, Deep Clay Vegan Leather

Materials: Partially recycled mesh and Greenguard-compliant foam

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 63m W x 44cm D x 89cm H
  • Easy to adjust to your liking
  • Four ergonomic adjustments
  • Scratch-free wheels
  • Made from the highest quality materials
  • Lifetime warranty
Product Image of the The Lair Dining Chair from Trit House

03

The Lair Dining Chair

$1070, Trit House

Best office chair for the design-motivated

Despite being categorised as a dining chair, I just adore the idea of this piece in my home office. The Lair Chair brings a sense of drama without tipping into excess. With its generous form and distinctive presence, it feels intentional and design-forward, making it a strong choice for those who want their office seating to double as a statement piece. Styled at a desk, it adds personality and warmth in a way few traditional office chairs manage.

One thing to be mindful of is the 14-18 week lead time; if you need new home office furniture quickly, this might not be for you.

Colours: Light Grey Leather (pictured), Light Brown Leather

Materials: Full aniline leather with a metal frame

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 48cm W x 60cm D x 76cm H
  • Adjustable height
  • Soft seating firmness
  • Floor protector included
  • Simple assembly required
  • 2-year warranty
Product Image of the Stevens PU Leather Office Chair

04

Stevens PU Leather Office Chair

$199.99 $189.99, Temple & Webster

Best office chair under $200

For those who lean towards classic design with a contemporary edge, the Stevens Chair strikes the right balance. The smooth PU leather finish adds polish, while its structured shape offers dependable support throughout the workday. It is a timeless option that feels equally at home in a study, bedroom workspace or formal office setting.

While this chic office chair hasn’t quite hit 5/5 stars, its average rating still sits at an impressive 4.7, with one happy customer writing, “Great office chair, comfy, sturdy, tucks under the desk, beautiful lines.”

And after reading the reviews that gave the product a less-than-perfect score, I still couldn’t find any complaints. In fact, they’re filled with compliments, such as “Modern attractive design and very comfortable and easy to put together” and “Comfy chair, easy to assemble and looks good in my study,” so what cost the product that 0.3 stars remains a mystery.

Colours: Black (pictured), White

Materials: Timber, faux leather, and metal

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 60cm W x 60cm D x 83cm H
  • Adjustable seat height
  • Footrest and 360-degree swivel base
  • Ergonomically designed to fit your body
Product image of the Dante Brandy Desk Chair from Adairs

05

Dante Brandy Desk Chair

$209.99 (was $349.99), Adairs

Best affordable PU leather office chair

The Dante Desk Chair is proof that practical pieces can still feel inviting. Its warm brandy tone adds richness to a space, while the cushioned seat and supportive back make it comfortable for everyday use. Ideal for softening a home office or blending into an open-plan room, it brings a relaxed elegance that Adairs does so well

Colours: Brandy (pictured), Sage Bouclé, Pearl Bouclé

Materials: PU leather blend chair with metal swivel base and plastic wheels

Key features:

  • Dimensions: 57cm W x 62cm D x 105cm H
  • Gas lift: 48 – 62cm
  • Gently curved back and cushioned arms for comfort
  • Requires assembly

How to create a relaxing home office

As any interior enthusiast knows, it’s all in the details, and creating a relaxing home office requires finishing touches. To help you make your home office a little more ‘you,’ I’ve rounded up some relaxing essentials that add just a tad more personality and calmness to your work day.

product image Eveko Beauty Balance Calming Hot Chocolate

Eveko Beauty Balance Calming Hot Chocolate
$74.90 at Eveko

Product image of Hardback 2026 Weekly Diary from Papier

Hardback 2026 Weekly Diary
$55 $44 at Papier

Rio Teak Bar Table & Stool Set
$64 at Flamingo Estate


Best brands for home office furniture

BrandBest ForLink
Trit HouseStatement home office furniture pieces and modern designsShop now
RJ LivingThoughtful, timeless furniture that weaves in with almost all aestheticsShop Now
CastleryBeautiful, high-quality investment pieces that stand the test of timeShop now
Interior SecretsLuxurious home office furniture for the interior obsessedShop now
MockaA variety of unique furniture designs to suit all budgetsShop now
LifelyModern furniture pieces at a very reasonable price pointShop now
FREEDOMA huge range of options for any and all aestheticsShop now
Temple & WebsterA massive range of home office furniture at budget-friendly pricesShop now
VorsenDesign-led furniture pieces and statement-making piecesShop now
RecessComfort-driven and sustainably-made home office furnitureShop now

The post This stunning home office furniture will make you excited to clock in appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284297 Seb Executive Desk Best Office Furniture Australia Ethnicraft Mahogany Roller Max Desk best Home Office Furniture Australia Best Home Office Furniture AustraliaGeorgie Writing Desk Best Office Furniture Australia Interior Secrets Albina Left Drawer Office Desk Walnut Vintage Office Desk – Teak RJ Living Best Home Office Furniture Australia Best Home Office Furniture VASUDA Desk FREEDOM Desk Best Office Furniture Joyce Office Chair Recess Everyday Chair Best Home Office Furniture Australia The Lair Dining Chair Best Home Office furniture Australia Stevens PU Leather Office Chair Best Home office Furniture Australia Best Home Office Furniture Australia Dante Brandy Desk Chair KENDALL’S PICK (33) Hardback 2026 Weekly Diary Papier Juni Marble Table Lamp Home Office Flamingo Estate Heirloom Tomato Candle homebeautiful-1284297
A lush native garden in East Melbourne that feels like a wild bushland trail https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/outdoor-ideas/native-garden-east-melbourne/ Tue, 06 Jan 2026 00:21:49 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284383 Designed to echo a nature trail in the bush,
this inner-city garden is full of surprises.

The post A lush native garden in East Melbourne that feels like a wild bushland trail appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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With foliage spilling over retaining walls and wildflowers popping up between boulders, this garden in an East Melbourne suburb is clearly thriving. It’s a far cry from the barren construction site it was built on. “The site was heavy yellow clay that you could definitely make a set of dishes out of,” recalls landscape designer Lori McNutt of McNuttnDorff Landscapes. “There were a lot of issues – the block’s quite steep and there was no drainage.”

The family’s Cavoodle Bernie loves exploring the garden. (Credit: Photography: Marnie Hawson)

It was a challenge, but Lori was excited to create a sustainable garden to match the energy-efficient Passivhaus in construction. She completed the design in stages, working with builders MVH Constructions as they excavated the site. This collaborative process helped instil a sense of untamed beauty. Says Lori, “That created the layers in the garden and it just evolved from there.”

In keeping with the home’s sustainable materiality, Lori sourced local sliced granite boulders from Rocks Plus and bluestone paving from Bamstone Bluestone. “My crazy planting style is to have a general palette, and to just go in there like a mad painter and position things,” she says. A Japanese maple adds a pop of colour against the home’s striking black cladding. (Credit: Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Homeowners Caroline and Nick, who have two young children, were keen to create a counterpoint to the formal hedges and cottage gardens typically seen in the suburb. Championing the surrounding environment was also important. “The house is very green in its footprint and uses local materials where possible, so we wanted to embrace the modern… and stay on the theme of Australian timbers and aesthetics in the garden,” Caroline explains.

“It’s a kind of immersive artwork that evolves through the seasons…that w get to dip into and enjoy.” (Credit: Photography: Marnie Hawson)

As busy professionals and parents, a low-maintenance design was essential. Lori opted for an organic tapestry of hardy, mostly native plants that don’t need regular watering, and locally sourced bluestone
and granite to create areas for sitting and exploring. The result is reminiscent of a wild and winding bushwalking track.

The design works in harmony with the home. This is at once cohesive and also functional. Since light is critical to the Passivhaus design, Lori was careful to ensure the garden’s trees add shape and structure without interfering with the home’s thermal properties.

The owners love a wide range of plants, so Lori suggested an earthy orange, yellow and red palette, peppered with rust-toned kangaroo paw. (Credit: Photography: Marnie Hawson)

“The house is quite tall so we really needed to plant some tall trees that wouldn’t impact the house but provide a bit of shade for upstairs,” Lori explains. “They’re dwarf lemon-scented gums, so they stay nice
and narrow, but will shelter the western sun off the bedroom upstairs.”

Thanks to Lori’s work enriching the soil with compost and gypsum, the garden has flourished, so much so that the plants are now selfpropagating. It’s also a magnet for birds such as pardalotes and magpies, creating a symphony of sounds that can be enjoyed by all.

Corten steel walls allowed Lori to add fresh topsoil. Covered in Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Falls’, it’s an inviting entry. (Credit: Photography: Marnie Hawson)

The garden has truly become a calming contrast to the busy city streets, while the native plants complement the natural beauty. “We love that it’s a little bit wild and rambling and that you get seasonal wildflowers,” Caroline says. “Our boys like to sit on the stone that’s a bit of a garden seat in the front yard and watch the first stars emerge and a few possums run around. You’re in a private native oasis there.”

“There’s always a spot for plants you love. You don’t have to be too strict” Lori McNutt, landscape designer

The garden is inspired by bushland, where wildflowers grow. As landscape designer Lori McNutt says, homeowner Caroline “wanted to enter her house feeling like she had different things to look at all the time, so the front garden is a densely layered planting. (Credit: Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Source book

Landscape design and construction McNuttnDorff
Landscapes, mcnuttndorff.com.au
Architecture Maxa Design, maxadesign.com.au
Builder MVH Constructions, mvhconstructions.com

The post A lush native garden in East Melbourne that feels like a wild bushland trail appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284383 inner-city-native-garden-design (1) inner-city-native-garden-design (7) inner-city-native-garden-design (9) inner-city-native-garden-design (4) inner-city-native-garden-design (3) inner-city-native-garden-design (2) homebeautiful-1284383
A Sunshine Coast double renovation full of colour and charm https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-tours/sunshine-coast-double-cottage-renovation/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 06:03:47 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1058084 Over more than a decade, a couple poured their passion into two homes, layering spaces with pattern, colour and whimsy.

The post A Sunshine Coast double renovation full of colour and charm appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Sue and Justin have enjoyed living in older homes in various parts of the world, from a genuine Californian bungalow in California, a 15th century cottage in the English county of Norfolk, to a Victorian brick terrace in Melbourne. A common thread has been Sue’s interior style, which melds vintage finds and a joyful kaleidoscope of artwork and textiles.

A quaint white farmhouse cottage with a front veranda.
As pretty as a picture, the guest house appears as if it’s always been on the property, which is a testament to the couple’s vision and renovation skills. Major changes to the worker’s cottage included opening up the home’s front verandah entrance, which had been enclosed, and extending the verandah around the eastern side. Character details such as fretwork, VJ cladding and cross bars were reinstated, and the exterior painted in Dulux Snowy Mountains Half. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

“I’ve become bolder over the years, each house has been more colourful than the last,” says Sue. When the couple sold their former Brisbane home – the new owner was so enamoured with the interiors they bought the entire contents with the home. “All we took with us were our clothes, photos, books and two pieces of furniture which had belonged to my grandmother,” says Sue.

Who lives here?

Sue and Justin, semi-retired lampshade makers.
What have you learnt renovating Queenslanders? Justin: “Timber houses are great to work on. So adaptable. Easy to modify walls, doors and windows.”
What’s been your best decision? Justin: “Using second-hand building materials, furnishing and decorative pieces. It’s good for the environment and great for the budget.”
What brings you the most joy? Sue: “We love that both homes have a common aesthetic theme of a basic farmhouse and sit comfortably apart within the established gardens, appearing as if they have always shared the location.”

Owners Sue and Justin taking in the views from the veranda.
With a deep appreciation for older homes and an inspired, resourceful approach to renovating and decorating, Sue and Justin thoroughly enjoyed the process of gradually transforming two buildings on a picturesque block in Eumundi in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hinterland, one as their home and the other as a guest house. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

For the couple, whose adult sons had flown the nest, being untethered from possessions presented an exciting opportunity to start afresh, gently transition into retirement and embrace a tree change to Eumundi in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hinterland. Keen to tackle a project, they knew they’d found ‘the one’ when they stumbled upon a semi-renovated, circa 1910 farmhouse on two acres. “It instantly felt right and offered scope to add our own touches,” says Sue. Serendipitously, the move also led to an unexpected ‘second career’, with Sue, a former nurse, ‘falling into’ making lamp shades. “I’d always loved lamps and making the shades has been a wonderful creative outlet to indulge my passion for fabrics and interiors,” says Sue.

A swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and tropical plants.
An existing pool is a plus, especially in Queensland’s hot, humid summers. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

The effect on the home was two-fold. Not only was the machinery shed converted into a studio, lamps of all shapes and sizes began pouring through the doors topping tables and filling corners, alongside a smorgasbord of custom cushions and upholstered furniture, mostly made from designer fabric off-cuts. “Justin’s work also changed,” says Sue. “While winding down a career in IT, he took on the roles of renovator, groundsman and part-time lamp maker.”

A blue antique Moroccan shelf with a tropical artwork hanging above.
This antique Moroccan bookcase was a second-hand find. “I loved the unique design and mint colour,” says Sue who accessorised the shelves with a lampshade she made in Water G ‘Marbella’ fabric. The artwork, Tropical Paradise by Margery Dennis, is from Villa Life & Co. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Their next project was acquiring and transforming a guest house for the property. “After searching for 12 months, we found a cottage destined for demolition in the town of Esk, north-west of Brisbane, which we relocated onto our block and set about slowly and meticulously renovating over three years,” says Justin. Split down the middle, so it could be transported and positioned into place, the original worker’s cottage was stitched back together and reconfigured internally to create two bedrooms and two ensuites, complete with a new kitchen and living area. A verandah was also added to wrap around two sides and take in the block’s glorious views.

Stay in the guest house

This beautiful property is one of the most loved homes on Airbnb with over 110 reviews and a 4.98 star rating.

View the full gallery listing here.

Cottage kitchen

“We found the green casement windows at a demolition centre, absolutely loved them and bought them before we knew where they would go,” says Sue. The layout was reconfigured to create the kitchen at the back of the cottage, enabling it to flow onto the new side verandah.

A blue and green modern country kitchen with a subway tile splashback.
The couple had custom cabinetry made in Dulux Wentworth and teamed the deep blue joinery with hand-glazed tiles in Emerald from Middle Earth Tiles. An Ikea Havsen sink bowl adds to the farmhouse feel, as does a vintage floor rug. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

“With the luxury of no time restrictions we could take our time looking for character details to add.”

– Sue
A green subway tile splashback above turquoise cabinets in the kitchen.
The benchtop is Elements Deluxe engineered stone from Creative Stone. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Cottage living area

Like their home, every space is dotingly layered to create a true immersive experience, which encourages moments of pause to soak up the intriguing details and unexpected swathes of colour and pattern.

Vintage-style living area with green patterned wallpaper and bright decor.
A fusion of key pieces of furniture were slowly sourced via Marketplace. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

“There was no fireplace originally, so we installed a Masport wood fireplace and eventually found the vintage cast iron fascia and later the mantlepiece surround,” explains Justin. To help accentuate the centrepiece, the back wall was highlighted in Diane Bergeron ‘Great Jones’ wallpaper in Moss, with vintage wall sconces customised with fabric shades in Anna Spiro Marigold Multi.

A white antique fireplace in the living area surrounded by green patterned wallpaper.
The rooms are decorated with blooms from local store, Eumundi & Co. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)
A white living area with blue and timber furniture and a gallery wall.
A view of the cottage’s main bedroom from the living area, bursting with colour. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Rather than match soft furnishings, Sue’s approach embraces vivid colour and striking fabrics by designers, such as Cloth & Print Co, Catherine Martin and Christopher Farr. “You don’t need a lot of fabric for lamp shades or cushion covers, so I love to use designer remnants and enjoy pairing an unusual lamp base, often sourced second hand, with a great fabric,” she says. For fabric remnants, try etsy.

We love… eclectic decor
An antique bamboo chair in the living area below a gallery wall.
This antique bamboo chair enhances an area in the living space of the cottage. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)
A collection of bright vintage-style décor and books.
Like bower birds, the couple like to collect pieces that catch their eyes. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Home living area

A gallery wall in the living area features an array of artworks collected over time. The most sentimental is a painting of the family’s former Fox Terrier, which their youngest son Declan, now 31, painted when he was six years old. The space features a sofa in Cassandra Harper ‘Tibetan Flower’ fabric in Moss, topped with a mix of custom cushions and a Schumacher ‘Chiang Mai Dragon’ fabric cushion from Villa Life & Co.

A vintage-style living area with a green sofa and gallery wall.
The sky blue metal lamp base was a second-hand discovery. “I believe it’s a French antique vessel, once used for storing dry goods,” says Sue. “With a flip lid, we were able to transform it into a lamp base.” (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Home main bedroom

Natural light and garden views pour through floor-to-ceiling sliding windows, which were an update by previous owners. The abundance of light highlights the details of the VJ walls and ceiling, which were refreshed in Resene Alabaster. Like a piece of art, the bedhead upholstered in William Yeoward ‘Felix’ fabric in Indigo provides a backdrop to the bed dressed in a white cover from Oliveaux Interiors paired with an ‘Evelyn’ hand-block print cotton quilt from Rachel Elizabeth Interiors.

The main bedroom opening onto the cottage garden.
A floor rug and bamboo storage drum sourced second hand add a global antiquity feel to the tranquil retreat. The antique cupboard doors came from Du Monde Interiors (now Interiors by Daryl Wark). (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

“I like a relaxed and intuitive approach to decorating, nothing too formal or matching.”

– Sue
The main bedroom decorated with a bright assortment of patterned textiles.
Traditional Chinese-style bedside tables feature in the home’s main bedroom. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Cottage main bedroom

In the cottage’s main bedroom, a vintage kantha quilt from Rachel Elizabeth Interiors is paired with Bed Threads scalloped European pillowcases in Terracotta and Rust and custom cushions.

The main bedroom with scalloped pillows and a vintage red and orange bed quilt.
Bed Threads scalloped European pillowcases. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Sue couldn’t resist Catherine Martin ‘La Palma’ wallpaper in Gilver for the cottage’s main ensuite. “I loved the brave, dynamic, tropical design,” she says of the striking backdrop, which is paired with an Early Settler vanity and tapware from Abi Interiors.

The main bedroom ensuite with palm leaf wallpaper and a timber vanity.
For double impact, Fat Shack Vintage ‘Lambton’ wall lights were customised with fabric shades in the same design. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Cottage guest bedroom

Shades of green pervade the interiors. Here, in one of the cottage’s guest bedrooms, it’s echoed in a bamboo bedhead, found on Marketplace, paired with a Rachel Elizabeth Interiors quilt, to custom cushions, lamp shades and Diane Bergeron ‘Great Jones’ wallpaper in Moss (try Milton & King).

A bright cottage-style guest bedroom with a vintage quilt.
Bedside tables from The Shed at Cooroy. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)
The ensuite with a timber vintage vanity and palm tree wallpaper.
A standout feature of the smaller ensuite in the cottage is the Catherine Martin ‘La Palma’ wallpaper in Gilver. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Home outdoor lounge area

Surrounded by tropical greenery, the home’s outdoor lounge area is one of the couple’s favourite places to spend time and in summer they eat outside every day. To enhance the sense of a seamless indoor/outdoor room, integrated banquet seating was installed featuring custom cushions in Christopher Farr outdoor fabric.

The outdoor lounge area surrounded by tropical greenery.
A rug from Pottery Barn defines the zone, anchoring a second-hand coffee table and cane chairs sourced online. Pendant lights and a lamp made by the couple add ambience after dark. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

Coming full circle, after 12 years on the property, Sue and Justin have just sold their Eumundi home and are set to embark on another renovation adventure. There’s no doubt, the result will be just as delightful.

A portrait of owners Sue and Justin on the veranda.
Sue and Justin on the guest cottage verandah, which overlooks a lush garden. (Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes)

The post A Sunshine Coast double renovation full of colour and charm appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Home Beautiful’s favourite Queenslanders of all time https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-tours/queenslander-houses-inspiration/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 04:25:56 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1255206 Quintessentially Australian, these coastal beauties of yesteryear are today's dream homes.

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The Queenslander is arguably Australia’s most romantic style of architecture. These historic homes, with their big, breezy verandahs, towering stilt structures and ornate heritage design features, seem to possess a sense of grandeur rarely found in other types of Australian properties.

It’s for this reason that the Queenslander remains one of the country’s most popular architectural styles — even featuring as the beloved family home in the iconic children’s television series Bluey. And while modern Queenslanders offer a particularly beautiful blank canvas for decorating, renovators also can’t resist the opportunity to restore one of these character-filled properties.

What is a Queenslander ?

Renovated Queenslander
This restored Brisbane Queenslander retains many traditional elements of the architectural style, including a butterfly staircase and a wide veranda. (Credit: Photography: John Downs | Styling: Kylie Jackes)

A Queenslander is a style of Australian architecture that originated in Queensland but is now found in other areas of the country, including northern New South Wales.

The architectural style is directly influenced by the sub-tropical Queensland climate, with these properties being designed to combat the region’s tropical storms and hot weather.

Key characteristics

Detached

A Queenslander is a detached property that usually occupies its own independent plot of land. While these buildings have a rural history, with many heritage Queenslanders being surrounded by large gardens and sprawling land, they are also found in suburban areas.

Stilts

A traditional Queenslander is a single-story property that is elevated off the ground via stilt structures. However, it’s common for modern iterations of these properties to enclose and convert the lower section of the home into more living space.

Verandas

A veranda is a defining element of both the traditional and modern Queenslander. While the veranda will often appear to wrap around the entire property, it will only reside on the back and sides or the front and sides of the home. It’s common for a Queenslander veranda to feature both open and closed sections.

Rustic materials

Traditional Queenslanders are made from timber and feature a corrugated metal roof to combat tropical storms.

Historical design features

With the first Queenslanders being built back in 1850, the properties often come with historical design features from Colonial, Federation and Victorian era styles.

These features often include a Colonial railing, central staircases, gables, column brackets, louvres, balustrades and porticos.

The history of the Queenslander

The Queenslander style emerged in the mid-1800s when European settlers came to live in the state. The properties were built to combat Queensland’s extreme heat and wet weather, with the corrugated metal being specifically selected for its durability in wet weather, and the big veranda built for protection from both rain and heat.

The rise of sawmills also made lightweight timber more affordable and accessible during the period.

However, the architectural style lost popularity after World War II, when people required cheaper housing construction, and American-style brick homes rose in popularity.

Why are Queenslander houses on stilts?

Stilts are one of the Queenslanders’ most interesting architectural features, but they also serve a very practical purpose by keeping the residence safe from flooding and pest infestations.

By getting air under the house, they also help with natural ventilation.

Home Beautiful’s favourite Queenslanders of all time

Two-story white house with gray to blue roof, fenced balcony, stairs, and garden, set against a blue sky.
(Credits: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

A new build Queenslander with all the charm of a heritage home

A family’s newly built abode in Bangalow channels timeless taste and celebrates reclaimed treasures with vintage style. “People walk in and can’t believe it’s not an original Queenslander,” shares homewner, Maggie.

Ivy And Piper Designer's Toowoomba 1940s Queenslander Entry Wallpaper
(Credits: Image: Hannah Puechmarin)

The vibrant renovation of a 1940s Toowoomba Queenslander

Carried out in two stages and adorned with pattern, colour and collected pieces

This Queenslander appears to be single-storey from the front, yet it’s elevated at the back with two levels and lovely views, prompting a treechange from Brisbane just over 10 years ago for Melanie, co-founder of interior design studio Ivy + Piper, and her young family.

A character-filled Queenslander is beautifully revived with a classic palette and a mix of modern elements
(Photography: John Downs)

An airy tropical oasis

Light and spacious

An ambitious renovation turned this grand 100-year-old Queenslander into the dream family home.

“The modern living area downstairs is all open plan with dining and informal living, with a new kitchen and servery to the backyard and pool area,” says homeowner Cathy. “In summer, I open the bi-fold servery windows and keep my eyes on the kids in the pool and still get dinner done.”

Queenslander home inspiration.
Credits: Photography: John Downs | Styling: Kylie Jackes

A transformative restoration

From dilapidated to stylishly renovated

The owners of this 1916 Queenslander undertook a major renovation to undo the design missteps of bygone eras and restore the Brisbane property to its former glory. Opting for a classic black and white exterior, this ambitious renovation takes the tired property from dated to distinguished.

Queenslander home inspiration.
(Credits: Photography: Hannah Puechmarin / Styling: Hayley Jenkin)

A colourful Queenslander

Full of personality

With its colourful walls and eclectic collection of antique décor, artwork and indoor plants, this 1935 Queenslander is full of personality.

“It’s maximalist, biographical, classic and, most importantly, comfortable,” says homeowner Lloyd, who shares the home with his husband, David.

“This is our first home and, incredibly, it was the first home we inspected when we began searching. We instantly fell in love with the charm of the period detailing and unique character that can’t be replicated in newer constructions.”

A classic Queenslander cottage with green cladding and white window detailing.
(Credits: Photography: Hannah Puechmarin)

A classic family home

Bright and playful

With its playful patterns and cosy furnishings, this East Toowoomba Queenslander is a warm and welcoming family home.

“We wanted a home that reflected our age and stage of life,” says homeowner Ainsley. “We wanted it to feel warm, comfortable and like a family with small children actually lived there.”

Queenslander home.
(Credits: Photography: John Downs / Styling: Rosanne Peach)

A serene space

Coastal calm

The homeowners of this 1925 Brisbane Queenslander transformed the property by converting the awkward layout into an open, dynamic design.

“We raised a beam that was making the kitchen really small and built right out to the space they had used as a dining room,” says homeowner Hayley. “It has made a very small kitchen quite grand.”

Queenslander home inspiration.
(Credits: Photography: Tim Salisbury / Styling: Jackie Brown)

An American influence

Bold and bright

The owners of this Brisbane Queenslander took inspiration from their time in the States when designing and decorating their bright and bold family home.

“I had definite thoughts about décor and how our family wanted to live. I didn’t want to see someone else’s ‘signature’ or ideas everywhere in my home,” says homeowner Teresa.

Queenslander kitchen.
(Credit: John Downs/ Styling: Tahn Scoon)

A Hamptons-inspired home

Classic and comfortable

This bright and airy 1880s Queenslander is the home of Australian swimming royalty, Olympian Hayley Lewis and her family.

With a deep love of Hamptons-style interiors, Hayley has turned her Queenslander into a calm coastal retreat.

“Ever since watching the film Something’s Gotta Give in 2003, I’ve wanted a home with a similar beach feel,” explains Hayley.

Queenslander home inspiration.
(Photographer: Elouise Van Riet-Gray / Styling: Lana Caves)

A modern makeover

Cool and contemporary

Giving this inner-city Queenslander a modern makeover turned the property into this couple’s dream home.

“Paul has always loved Queenslanders, but I’m more into a modern house,” Lisa explains of the couple’s decision to bring contemporary design into the heritage property.

A sleek update to the interiors, while still preserving some heritage feature,s helped this property achieve the perfect blend of old and new.

queenslander bedroom floral upholstered bedhead
(Credit: Mindi Cooke)

A characterful cottage

Patterned and pretty

The homeowners of this 1930s Brisbane Queenslander made their house a home with a new layout and plenty of pattern.

“With so much more light, space and fresh finishes, it feels like a new home, yet still has the charm of an old Queenslander,” says homeowner Monica. “I just love it.”

An exterior shot of a Queenslander style home, with trims, sills, gutters, fascias, posts and heritage mouldings, as well as weatherboard exterior.
(Credits: Photography: Brock B)

Before & after: A run-down Queenslander is now an entertainer’s dream

The once-cramped abode is now a luxurious haven

This head-turning Queenslander was lifted, extended and reimagined as a forever home for a family of four, with an entirely new layout, greater functionality and a blend of modern style and heritage charm.

The post Home Beautiful’s favourite Queenslanders of all time appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1255206 Renovated Queenslander The home's exterior today with the new butterfly stairs. new-build-queenslander-bangalow (10) Ivy And Piper Designers Toowoomba 1940s Queenslander Entry Wallpaper A character-filled Queenslander is beautifully revived with a classic palette and a mix of modern elements (Photography: John Downs) Queenslander home inspiration. Photography: John Downs | Styling: Kylie Jackes maximalist-queenslander-renovation-living-room-kitchen classic-queenslander-cottage-green-cladding Queenslander home. classic-american-dream-home-deck-barbeque Queenslander kitchen. (Credit: John Downs/ Stylist: Tahn Scoon) Queenslander home inspiration. queenslander bedroom floral upholstered bedhead "I'd always wanted a big bougie headboard for that hotel feel and I absolutely love it," says Monica. before-and-after-queenslander-extension-home-renovation-exterior homebeautiful-1255206
A new build Queenslander with all the charm of a heritage home https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-tours/queenslander-new-build-bangalow/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 03:58:36 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284236 A family’s newly built abode in Bangalow channels timeless taste and celebrates reclaimed treasures with vintage style.

The post A new build Queenslander with all the charm of a heritage home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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“People walk in and can’t believe it’s not an original Queenslander,” says Maggie of her newly constructed home in Bangalow, where she and her husband Josh live with their two sons and newborn daughter.

Prior to building the four-bedroom abode on a vacant 750-square-metre block, the couple were intent on purchasing and renovating an older character house. Originally from Adelaide and returning from a short stint living in the US, they were drawn to the natural landscape and lifestyle of the Northern Rivers.

It’s surprising to discover this Bangalow home in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales was little more than a vacant block until 2023, when Maggie, Josh and their children moved into the newly built Queenslander. The weatherboard facade, painted in Dulux Casper White Quarter and Dulux Monument, is classic in its planning and palette. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

Who lives here?

Who lives here? Maggie, her husband Josh, their two sons Morgan, seven, and Wells, four, and newborn daughter, India.
Any lessons learnt? Maggie: “Thank goodness we were working alongside a designer, because I think I could have spent forever going through different design ideas and styles. Just having someone there with you to guide you through the process made the biggest difference and was extremely helpful.”
What do you love about your home? “Our home feels so warm and joyful.”

A custom banquette built by Laneway Furniture Co in the kitchen nook features a seat cushion in Land ‘Painted Medium Stripe’ outdoor fabric in Sangria, and is finished in Porter’s Paints Bayleaf. It provides a perch for Morgan , below a vintage pendant from Josh’s family home in Adelaide. “It’s my favourite light in the house,” says Maggie. The oval ‘Clover’ marble dining table is from Lounge Lovers, the ‘Billi’ stools are by So Watt and the paper dispenser is from George & Willy. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

In 2020, they bid on an old Queenslander on their favourite street bordered by rolling farmlands, but it wasn’t meant to be.

“We were disappointed to miss out on that house, because we really wanted an old home with charm,” says Maggie. “Then we saw there was a block of land for sale just down the road.”

Timber fretwork and ‘Vintage Style Port’ sconces from Lighting Collective further nod to timeless design. Panelling in Porter’s Paints Jodhpur Blue greets the family at the entry, near a Paradise Living Co armchair and rocking horse, and a Pooky ‘Clyfford’ picture light(Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

Quick to pivot, they bought the plot and engaged Ballina architect Amy Campbell. With its deep verandahs, elevated outlook and pitched roofline, Amy’s design has all the characteristics of a traditional Queenslander. The interiors, completed by Rachael Peachey, are splashed with panelling, ornate fretwork and happy hues.

In the open-plan living area, a Kave Home ‘Blok’ sofa in Pink wide-seam corduroy is perfect for curling up on. The Provincial Home Living dining setting in the meals zone is joined by Stokke high chairs for the couple’s little ones and lit by ‘Rattan Weave’ pendants from MG & Co. “I wanted to use as much pendant and wall lighting as possible, and not go too heavy on downlights, because of the era that we were trying to evoke in the home. Downlights are too modern, and we wanted to layer the lighting,” says Rachael. The panelled walls are enlivened with a print by local artist Matt Sansom. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

To Maggie’s delight, there’s a strong indoor-outdoor connection. Designed by Fig Landscapes, the garden is a tapestry of native flora and grasses alongside cottage blooms. “We wanted lots of space to start growing our own vegetables and have some fruit trees, as well as a grassy area where the kids could play. That was big for us,” says Maggie.

Nectre wood burner is raised on a hearth of tumbled Verde and Carrara marble tiles from House of Surfaces. The plant pot is from The Old Pacific in Newrybar. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

A stretch of turf greets the pool area, which is paved with soft pink and natural travertine chequerboard tiles. Its white rendered wall is capped with reclaimed bricks: a design detail Rachael added after gleaning inspiration from the walled gardens she saw in the UK. “It’s a retaining wall that’s doing a job,” she says, “but I thought, ‘Why not make it practical and beautiful?’ I say bring in the joy wherever you can.”

Maggie and Josh’s architect, designer and builder made some agile tweaks to enhance the home as it took form: in the dining area, the large window was an eleventh hour addition. “We had to go back to council and get a DA amendment during the build to approve the window,” explains Rachael. “We were at the point where the cladding was about to go on the exterior, but it was 100-per cent worth it.” (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

The home overflows with tiny but mighty moments of joy: cupboard interiors are painted in lolly-hued shades and trims in the boys’ bedrooms are finished in their favourite colours. The graceful merging of old and new gives the fresh construction its inviting charm. The reclaimed timber flooring throughout originated in an old factory in Sydney, and the garden terraces were originally railway sleepers in a past life.

“The island was a clincher for the kitchen design,” says Rachael of the former antique shop counter repurposed by Laneway Furniture Co. “Once we found that, we knew what the kitchen was going to look like.” Not wanting it obscured by bar stools, Rachael added a banquette opposite. ‘Antique Adjustable Wall Lamps’ and ‘Ceramic Traditional Pendants’, both from Lighting Collective, illuminate the space. A ‘Piemonte’ mixer and ‘Amalfi’ filter tap, both from Designer Tapware Co, complement the Turner Hastings ‘Novi’ sink, copper benchtops and marble splashback tiles from House of Surfaces. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

Maggie wanted to use colour and make her house feel fun for her kids,” Rachael Peachey, interior designer.

Porter’s Paints Bayleaf graces the butler’s pantry, with a green gingham skirt from Spotlight. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

After speaking with neighbours who have navigated challenging restoration and renovation projects on their own century-old properties, Maggie and Josh are glad they started with a clean slate and embarked on a new build. “We did stretch the budget by a lot, but at the end of the day, this is our dream home and we plan on living here for a long, long time,” shares Maggie. “It’s perfect for us and we feel so blessed to be able to be here.”

Bedrooms

The artwork on the bedroom wall is by Matt Sansom and the ‘Day Short’ sconce is by We Ponder. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

The couple chose Bauwerk Colour Limewash in Almond Blossom for the walls in their bedroom. “Josh doesn’t mind the pink. It’s quite a pale, soft pink, which changes throughout the day. It’s so sweet and dreamy,” says Maggie.

The couple opted for a playful timber bed and soft pink palette in their bedroom. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

Their timber bed from Create Estate is topped with Bed Threads linen and joined by side tables from Bonnie & Neil. Soft Roman blinds and romantic, floaty sheers in white linen, both by Blind Design, add to the palette.

The bedroom walls are Dulux Casper White Quarter. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

Maggie wanted her kids’ rooms to be able to evolve as they grow, so she opted for vintage wardrobes instead of built-in joinery. “She was open to doing something a bit different in the boys’ rooms and didn’t necessarily want them to be all white. Yellow is Morgan’s favourite colour, but Maggie was hesitant to go heavy on it, so we went with the trims,” says Rachael of the Dulux Swedish Yellow architraves, cornices and skirtings.

(Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

Bathrooms

Maggie and Josh’s ensuite is officially tickled pink, with its ‘Roucou’ terrazzo floor tiles and cement wall tiles in Rose, both from Tiles of Ezra. Roza marble from Franca Design graces the vanity top, which Stone Inspirations cut and installed atop custom joinery by Laneway Furniture Co. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

WE LOVE… nostalgic notes

Even the guest quarters on the lower-ground floor were treated to traditional touches. In the guest bathroom, a ‘Rockwell’ pedestal basin in Willow Green from The Water Monopoly salutes classic style, as do the brass lever taps and a showerhead from Designer Tapware Co. ‘Manacor’ wall tiles in Blue Moon and White Gloss are offset by ‘Tierra Bejmat Cotto’ floor tiles, all from House of Surfaces.
For inspiration, see houseofsurfaces.com

(Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

Laundry

Thanks to cabinetry in Dulux Naked Rose and terracotta floor tiles from Jatana Interiors, the tonal laundry is pretty in pink. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

Outdoors

Maggie and Josh enlisted Mullumbimby Pools to create their stylish splash zone, which is skirted by a chequerboard of Classic and Rosso Travertine tiles, both House of Surfaces. Reclaimed ‘San Selmo Classico’
bricks in Original by Austral Bricks cap the pool wall in a harmonising hue near a Basil Bangs ‘Jardin Patio’ umbrella. A long timber outdoor dining table from Early Settler complements the spotted gum decking(Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras )

“Fig Landscapes did an amazing job creating the different levels in the garden. The top point of the garden is very high up, so when you sit up there you overlook the farms and the hills – it’s so peaceful,” shares Maggie of the terraced space, where Morgan runs off energy.

Wells enjoys ‘cooking’ in the boys’ Muddy Play Kitchens. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

Corten steel and hardwood steps add a weathered touch, as do the retaining walls, made of reclaimed timber sleepers from Off The Rails Byron Bay.

Hide & Seek Kids cubby makes use of space in the side garden. (Credit: Photography: Mindi Cooke, Styling: Rhianne Contreras)

SOURCE BOOK
Interior design
Studio Peachey, @studiopeachey

Architect Amy Campbell Architect, amycampbellarchitect.com.au

Builder Inspired Built, inspiredbuilt.com.au

Joinery Custom Kitchens & Interiors, ckandi.com.au

Landscaping Fig Landscapes, figlandscapes.com.au

The post A new build Queenslander with all the charm of a heritage home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Simple zucchini salad https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/recipe/entertaining/zucchini-salad/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 03:41:22 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?post_type=recipe&p=1284300 Fresh zucchini ribbons with basil, currants and tangy dressing.

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Fresh, light, and bursting with flavour, this simple zucchini salad from the Clove app is the perfect way to elevate your greens. Thin ribbons of zucchini create a beautiful base, while sweet currants soaked in apple cider vinegar add a tangy twist. Fragrant basil, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil bring everything together for a dish that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Quick to prepare and ideal for warm days, this salad makes a refreshing side or a light lunch. Make sure you use a mandoline or vegetable peeler to make the thin zucchini ribbons; they look much more impressive! And serve immediately to avoid the zucchini getting too watery.

For more zucchini recipes, try this zucchini and asparagus pasta, this zucchini tart or these yummy zucchini fritters.

Ingredients

Method

1.

Combine currants and a good splash of apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and set aside.

2.

Very thinly slice 3 zucchini into ribbons with a mandoline or vegetable peeler and gently place in a flattish dish.

3.

Sprinkle with a few generous pinches of salt and cracked black pepper, a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of chilli flakes.

4.

Add 2 handfuls of basil leaves plus the soaked currants and gently mix.

5.

Taste, and add more salt and pepper if needed, then drizzle with good-quality olive oil and the currant-soaked apple cider vinegar.

6.

Lightly mix and serve immediately.

Tip

For a heartier version, add toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios, or toasted pepita or sunflower seeds. Some crumbled fetta or dollops of goat’s cheese or ricotta would add a nice creaminess.

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Treat yourself to cooler nights with these dreamy summer sheets https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/best-cotton-percale-sheets/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 02:52:07 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283130 The perfect solution to scorching Australian summers

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As a self-proclaimed hot sleeper who is yet to adjust to the Sydney heat, I’ve done my fair share of research into the best temperature-regulating bedding, and cotton percale sheets sit right at the top of my summer essentials list.

Serving as the perfect antidote to balmy, restless nights, this particular kind of bedding has quickly become a core bedroom must-have, especially for rooms without good air conditioning. The secret to cotton percale’s cooling magic? A simple weave, with threads alternating one-over-one-under. It may not sound like a high-tech solution, but it is an effective one, and creates that crisp, breathable, and colder quality that we hot sleepers adore.

While many of us wait for temperatures to reach unbearable highs to update our spring sheets, savvy shoppers know that now is the very best time to buy. With the scorching Australian heat moving in, cooler nights and luxurious linens have never felt more luxurious.


A Shopping Editor’s top cotton percale picks

Our editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. Read more here

Product image of Sheridan Bayley Washed Percale Sheet Set in Relish, ranked the best cotton percale sheets and now part of Black Friday bedding sales

01

Bayley Washed Percale Sheet Set, Relish

from $125.99 (was $179.99), Sheridan

Best for: Cooling statement sheets

If you’re searching for the perfect cotton percale sheets to add to cart, I’m nominating Sheridan’s Bayley Washed Percale Sheet Set, partially because I love a bundle (and this one covers all my bases with a flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases), but also because of the airy, soft and extra breathable fabric used to create this vibrant summer set.

And despite sale season having been and gone, this luxurious set is still heavily discounted; shoppers can take this summer sleep essential home from just $125.99. And with an average rating of 4.6/5 stars, these sheets are ones you can trust. Just ask the five-star reviewer who described the set as Super soft, super comfy, beautiful, soft and lightweight covers,” before adding, “they wash really well too – minimal creasing so they look great straight on the bed. I bought a second colour as I was so happy with these.

Sizes: Single, King Single, Double, Queen 40cm, Queen 50cm, King 40cm, King 50cm

Colours: White, Pebble, Deep Sea, Steel Blue, White Stripe, Dusty Mauve, Brulee, Relish (pictured), Cool Mint, Dusty Rose, and Deep Sea

Materials: 100% cotton percale, excluding trims

Key features:

  • Soft and matte
  • Airy and breathable finish
  • 11 colours and three patterns available
  • Wide sizing range to accommodate all beds
Product image of Sheet Society Jude Organic Cotton Sheet in Sunday Stripe, ranked as one of the best cotton percale sheets and now part of Black Friday bedding sales

02

Jude Organic Cotton Sheet, Sunday Stripe

from $85, Sheet Society

Best for: Bedding that’s cool in more ways than one

When it comes to great bedding, we all know that Sheet Society is a true crowd favourite. Personally, I’m opting for their Jude Organic Cotton sheets or, alternatively, a Kane Bamboo set, for my own bedroom refresh (as I’m already well stocked with dreamy percale options), but I adore this striped set in a percale cotton weave.

As the title doesn’t explicitly say so, I want to confirm that, yes, this set is percale cotton. Occasionally, brands won’t state this in their product titles, instead opting for a simple ‘cotton’ classification. To check, head to the product description; they usually have the particular kind of weave stated there.

Sizes: Double, Queen, King, Super King

Colours: White, Warm White, Nutmeg, Pink Lotus, Mint, Bay Blue, Ink, Sunday Stripe (pictured), Watson Stripe, Darby Stripe

Materials: Stonewashed 100% cotton crafted in a percale weave

Key features:

  • Gathered ruched detailing
  • Soft matte look and feel
  • Piping trim
  • Invisible zip
  • Deep fitted sheets
Product image of Linen House Winton Seagrass Sheet Set, ranked as one of the best cotton percale sheets and now part of Black Friday bedding sales

03

Winton Seagrass Sheet Set

from $64.99 (was $129.99), Linen House

Best for: A complete and luxe sheet set under $100

If I didn’t already know and love Linen House, I might think their 2025 Boxing Day sale is too good to be true, especially since it’s still going strong well into 2026. Offering generous discounts off almost everything, savvy bedding shoppers can take home high-value sets (like the Winton Seagrass Sheet Set) for under $70; this is the kind of sale that really gets my attention.

Including 1x flat sheet, 1x fitted sheet, and 1-2 pillowcases (depending on the size you purchase), this bundle includes everything you need for a cooler, restful night, even in the Australian heat. Even better, it boasts an average rating of 4.8 stars, and many raving reviews such as this one:

“To climb between the Cotton Percale Sheets 3000TC is absolutely bliss. To feel such crispness and freshness induces sleep, relaxing the body to perfection. The colour Winton Mid Blue and quality are superb matching the pallet already in my bedroom décor.”

Sizes: Single, King Single, Double, Queen, King

Materials: 300 thread cotton percale

Key features:

  • Cool and crisp feeling
  • Beautiful colourway
Product image of Adairs Fresh Navy Stripe Sheet Set, ranked as one of the best cotton percale sheets and now part of Black Friday bedding sales

04

Fresh Navy Stripe Sheet Set

from $90.99 (was $119.99), Adairs

Best for: Pattern lovers

When it comes to bedding upgrades, Adairs is one of the first retailers I turn to when embarking in search of high-quality bedding. And with generous discounts and additional savings for members of their Linen Lovers club, it’s definitely worth perusing their offerings (particuarly those in the clearance section) frequently.

This Fresh Navy Stripe Sheet Set sits as my top pick. Between the playful pattern and fresh fabric choice, it serves as the perfect summer set (and proves you don’t have to sacrifice ‘fun’ designs when opting for practical fabrics). And with extra sizing options available that cater to deeper mattresses, you’re bound to find your perfect fit. While the set only has one review, its been given 5-stars, with the happy customer describing them as “lovely, soft sheets. Really easy to put on the bed and wash up nicely. Highly recommend.”

Sizes: Single, King Single, Double, Queen, Queen Extra Depth, King, King Extra Depth

Materials: 100% cotton percale

Key features:

  • 300 thread count
  • Oeko-Tex certified
  • Australian cotton

05

Hemmed Sheet Set, Cream/Olivine & Etched Peony

from $254.15 (was $299), Boll & Branch

Best for: Truly luxurious bedding

Boll and Branch is a new find for me, and I couldn’t be happier to be across their beautiful bedding. While their percale sheets aren’t the most affordable on the market, their high-quality linen is a great investment that’ll last for years and continue to soften with time.

This stunning Olivine and Etched Peony variant would effortlessly weave into any bedroom, and the visible quality has the potential to elevate an entire space. If you’re going to update your bedding this Black Friday, treat yourself to the premium option (especially when it doesn’t come with a premium price tag).

Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Materials: 100% organic cotton percale

Key features:

  • 100% organic cotton
  • Long staple cotton for the highest quality and durability
  • Ethically made
  • Made to last

Your guide to 2025’s best percale bedding brands

If you ask me, the New Year serves as the perfect excuse to invest in those cooling cotton percale sheets you’ve been dreaming of. For all the sale details you need to find the very best deals from Australia’s most-trusted bedding brands, simply browse through the master list below.

RetailerBest ForLink
SheridanHigh quality bedding in a wide variety of colours, patterns, and fabricsShop now
Sheet SocietyTrendy, customisable summer bedding setsShop now
I Love LinenTruly luxurious bedding and reversible coversShop now
The IconicShopping a huge range of beautiful bedding brands, all in one placeShop now
Bed ThreadsThe perfect linen and organic cotton setsShop now
MCM HouseSimple but indulgent sheetsShop now
AdairsA variety of bedding sets to suit all tastes and budgetsShop now
MyerAn extensive range of brands and stylesShop now
Bed Bath N’ TableFinding something for everyone and anyoneShop now
Pillow TalkAffordable bedding in gorgeous stylesShop now

What’s the difference between cotton and percale cotton?

Cotton is the base material, whereas the term ‘percale’ refers to the type of weave used and how the piece was made (rather than what it’s made of). Cotton and percale aren’t mutually exclusive; in fact, they go hand-in-hand.

What’s so special about percale sheets?

Australians love cotton percale sheets for their ability to regulate temperature on warmer nights. Being crisp, cool and airy (and having breathable, moisture-wicking qualities) makes them a perfect bedding option for warmer climates. They also look pretty luxurious, too.

What are the disadvantages of percale sheets?

Like linen sheets, percale cotton sheets tend to wrinkle easily. If you like a perfectly smooth bed, this may result in you spending a little extra time ironing and steaming.

Which is better, linen or percale?

Linen and percale are both great choices for summer bedding, and making the right choice for you ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both linen and cotton percale sheets are airy, cooling, and durable, but I find the latter proves more silky and luxurious than linen.

The post Treat yourself to cooler nights with these dreamy summer sheets appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1283130 Bayley Washed Percale Sheet Set, Relish Best Summer Sheets 2025 Jude Organic Cotton Sunday Stripe BEST Cotton Percale Sheets Australia 2025 Winton Seagrass Sheet Set Linenhouse Black Friday Sunner Bedding Sale Fresh Navy Cotton Sheet Set Adairs Black Friday Bedding Sale 2025 Signature Hemmed Sheet Set Boxing Day Sales Best Bedding Boxing Day Sales 2025 Australia homebeautiful-1283130
Quick and easy zucchini and asparagus pasta https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/recipe/entertaining/zucchini-and-asparagus-pasta/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:25:55 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?post_type=recipe&p=1284245 All your daily greens in one dish.

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Get the year off to a healthy start with this vibrant green pasta dish from the Clove app that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful. Packed with vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, and peas, it’s a light yet satisfying meal that brings a burst of colour and flavour to your table. Fragrant basil, a hint of chilli, and a squeeze of lemon brighten every bite, while a generous sprinkle of Parmesan adds the perfect finishing touch. Quick to prepare and full of wholesome goodness, this recipe is ideal for a simple weeknight dinner or a leisurely lunch that tastes like sunshine on a plate.

For more zucchini recipes, try the zucchini and four cheese tart or zucchini fritters or, to use it in something sweet, try this zucchini cake.

Ingredients

Method

1.

Remove the woody stems from the asparagus and cut into 3cm pieces on an angle. Cut the zucchinis into 3cm thick rounds, and pick the basil leaves from the stem and set aside.

2.

In a large frypan over medium heat, add the olive oil and fry the zucchini slices for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Turn down the heat to low and add the salt, pepper, and chilli flakes, if using. Zest the lemon into the pan, then squeeze in the juice of half the lemon and mix well. Cover with a lid and cook for 15 minutes until the zucchinis start to fall apart.

3.

While the zucchinis are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the spaghetti and cook to packet instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and asparagus pieces. When the peas and asparagus are bright green and tender, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and vegetables into a large colander.

4.

Add the drained pasta, peas, and asparagus to the zucchini pan, with the ¼ cup of pasta water and cook gently for a few minutes, until the pasta water thickens slightly. Squeeze in the other half of the lemon, add the basil leaves and stir. Taste and season with more salt and pepper, if needed.

5.

Turn off the heat, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and plenty of cracked pepper and serve.

The post Quick and easy zucchini and asparagus pasta appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Rachel Carr spills The Block secrets, and shares how to make a happy (profitable) holiday home https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/home-beautiful-podcast-rachel-carr/ Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:38:12 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284037 "You don't want to go to a house and think we can't touch anything. You want to go there and enjoy it and have the best time.

The post Rachel Carr spills The Block secrets, and shares how to make a happy (profitable) holiday home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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The Edit podcast from the team at Home Beautiful is a space to connect and belong to a growing group of our audience who want to go behind the scenes of our glossy pages to discover exactly what makes a house a home.

We’re talking to our favourite people in the interiors world – designers, retailers, homewares heroes, and some unexpected interiors enthusiasts who’ll share what makes their own homes special, from the first memories of the spaces they inhabited in childhood to how they live and entertain today.


Have you ever walked into someone’s home and immediately noticed something?

With a new year around the corner,  in this episode of ‘The Edit’, Elle is catching up with The Block alum and Holiday
Home Makeover star Rachel Carr to explore the idea of designing not for ego, but for function, and why fresh eyes are everything in a modern home makeover.

Rachel shares some unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments from her time on The Block with her husband Ryan, why their relationship stood the test of time, and through everything the reality TV juggernaut threw at them. She also reveals just how easy it is to turn a blind eye in your own space, and how sometimes, the things we miss ourselves are the most shocking!

“You come off [The Block] with this sense of ‘we can do anything’, and this was the dream.”

Rachel Carr
Rachel and Ryan Carr with their three children at their South Coast holiday house.
For serial renovators Rachel and Ryan, what began as a revamp to create a family holiday home has finished in a beautiful abode where they enjoy Christmas together. (Credit: Photography: Rachel Tagg/ Styling: Kayla Gex)

Rachel also talks us through the journey of turning a tired coastal property into Cinque House, a luxury Mediterranean-inspired Airbnb that’s “booked up constantly.” She shares the smartest ways to get the most out of your Airbnb – from layout and storage to luxe hotel touches using the Cinque home on the NSW South Coast as the ultimate case study.

If you’re a Block fan, an aspiring host, or just obsessed with beautifully designed holiday rentals, this inspiring conversation dives into how Rachel and Ryan Carr blend luxury hotel vibes with real family practicality to create an Airbnb guests rebook again and again. Expect insider renovation tips, styling tricks, and plenty of Cinque House details you’ll want to steal for your own short-stay property.

“I don’t know what it is about hotels, but they just take it to that extra level of luxury and of design choices. Once I was on that tangent, I couldn’t stop.”

Rachel Carr

If you love refining your home sanctuary, interior design, home makeovers and real-life renovation advice, this episode of The Edit is your ultimate starting point. Hit play to get inspired, get practical tips you can use this weekend, and see your home with fresh eyes.

The Edit Episode 6

The Edit by Home Beautiful

Our newest space, “The Edit” – a podcast from the team at Home Beautiful, is supported by OZ Design and Luxaflex.

Discover the real stories, personalities, and inspiring ideas behind how Australians create their style and sanctuary.

Whether you’re looking for a burst of inspiration, clever home ideas, or a little audio comfort, this show is for anyone who wants to make their space truly their own.

Listen now: Episode six of The Edit is available via the iHeart app, homebeautiful.com.au, or wherever you get your podcasts watch below or listen here

The post Rachel Carr spills The Block secrets, and shares how to make a happy (profitable) holiday home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284037 Rachel Carr spills The Block secrets, and shares how to make a happy (profitable) holiday home%%sep%% %%sitename%% The Block alum and Holiday Home Makeover star Rachel Carr talks about turning a tired coastal property into Cinque House, a luxury Airbnb. the edit podcast,home beautiful podcast rachel carr rachel-and-ryan-south-coast-holiday-home (15) homebeautiful-1284037
Boxing Day sales have officially begun: this is what you need to know https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/boxing-day-sales/ Fri, 26 Dec 2025 06:33:15 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1057230 How to make the most of the last big sale event of the year.

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While we cherish the festivities of Christmas Day, Boxing Day sales can be equally joyous for those of us who adore a great deal. After all, Santa can’t always be trusted to tick off the entirety of our wishlists; occasionally, we have to take matters into our own hands.

As one of the biggest sale events of the year, rivalled only by Black Friday, Boxing Day sales are delivering huge savings across a wide range of dreamy product categories. And given that the event falls on the day after Christmas, it’s the perfect opportunity to take a break from gifting and treat yourself to something nice.


However, as is the case with most sales of this magnitude, getting in quick is a must. So, to help you build a shopping list that doesn’t inspire post-purchase regret, we’ve rounded up answers to all your Boxing Day-related questions, insights into this year’s deals (both current and upcoming), and all the items that we’re eager to add to our own carts.

Explore our 2025 Boxing Day sales guides


The best 2025 Boxing Day sales to shop in Australia

Our editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. Read more here

Shopping tip: Oftentimes, many items that were are discounted during Black Friday go back on sale for Boxing Day, so use this opportunity to pick up any pieces you may have missed.

If you’re after a little inspiration for your Boxing Day sales wishlist, I’m here to help. Below, you’ll find all the pieces I’m coveting this festive season, all at a beautifully discounted price. From bedding and homewares to furniture and appliances, these are the pieces worth taking home.

Looking for something specific?


The best 2025 Boxing Day sales on bedding

What to look for: Linen, bamboo, and percale cotton bedding sets for cooler, more comfortable summer nights

This past Black Friday, I made a grave mistake. Whilst shopping for brand-new summer bedding, I snapped up a beautiful linen sheet set from Bed Threads (this exact one, if you’re interested) without committing to the duvet cover I also had my eye on. By the time I realised my faux pas, the sale had ended. However, now that Bed Thread’s Boxing Day sale is live, I can finally right my Black Friday wrong.

I’ve curated a collection of my favourite bedding to inspire your own Boxing Day shopping. And please, don’t repeat my mistakes; if you love a bedding set, commit to every piece. Buy once, cry once, as I always say.

Olive Stripe Duvet Cover Set Bed Threads Best Boxing Day Bedding Sales

Olive Stripe Duvet Cover Set
from $280 $212.80 at Bed Threads

Nimes Clay Quilt Cover Set Best Boxing Day Bedding Sales 2025

Nimes Clay Quilt Cover Set
from $259.99 $103.99 at Linen House

Hazelnut Stripe French Flax Linen Sheet Set I Love Linen Best Boxing Day Bedding sales 2025

Hazelnut Stripe French Flax Linen Sheet Set
from $355 $266.25 at I Love Linen

Romi Check Quilt Cover Set Sheridan Best Boxing Day Sales Australia

Romi Check Quilt Cover Set
from $249.99 $174.99 at Sheridan


The best Boxing Day sales on homewares

I’ve talked before about my quest to refresh my own interiors before, but I haven’t yet covered my strategy. Like all savvy shoppers, I try to wait until sale season to take home my most coveted homewares; a new collection of cushions and throws can cost hundreds, but during the Boxing Day sales, you can stage an entire overhaul of accent pieces (guided by our top trend predictions of 2026) for much less.

In 2025, cushions, throw blankets, throws, and coffee table books are populating my wishlist, and these are the ones I’m prioritising; get them before I do.

Atlas Stripe European Pillowcase Best Boxing Day Sales Pillow Talk Australia 2025

Atlas Stripe European Pillowcase
$29.95 $19.90 at Pillow Talk

Maison Balzac Les Mains Dinner Plates in Beige Best Boxing Day sales Australia 2025

Les Mains Dinner Plates in Beige
$79 $55 at Maison Balzac

A Visual Feast: Ingredients That Make a Home by Jono Fleming Boxing Day Sales Australia 2025

A Visual Feast: Ingredients That Make a Home by Jono Fleming
$65 $48.75 at Amazon

Les Fruits Olive Placemats Boxing Day Sales Australia 2025

Les Fruits Olive Placemats
$80 $30 at Bed Threads


The best Boxing Day sales on furniture

Regardless of how well-loved one’s sofa may be, it can be difficult to justify such a big purchase in the name of aesthetics. That is, unless it’s on sale.

I’m still on the hunt for the perfect sofa for a particularly inconveniently shaped living room, and I’m hoping to secure my dream piece during this year’s Boxing Day sales. And if you are also looking to tick off a specific ‘white whale’ furniture buy, now’s the time to do it.

For a little sale-season inspiration, I’ve compiled a list of my favourite furniture finds of the year so you can add them to your very own Boxing Day wishlist.


The best Boxing Day sales on appliances

With a new year comes the chance to upgrade your appliance rotation, simplify your life, and get set up for a fresh start; that’s why I’m picking up a brand new blender during the Boxing Day sales. After all, there’s no better way to get those much-needed nutrients for a new year’s health kick.

What to look for: If you have a specific appliance in mind, check out a few retailers to see who has the best deal.

Shark Cordless Vacuum Boxing Day Sales 2025

Shark Cordless Vacuum
$399.99 $249.99 at Shark

Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer in Butter Boxing Day Sales Australia 2025

Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer in Butter
$949 $749 at KitchenAid

Ninja Blast Max Cordless Portable Blender Boxing Day Sales 2025

Ninja Blast Max Cordless Portable Blender
$129.99 $99.99 at Ninja

Tefal Dolci Rise Ice Cream Maker Boxing Day Sales Australia 2025

Tefal Dolci Rise Ice Cream Maker
$299.95 $199 at Tefal


Shop the best Boxing Day Sales of 2025

Sometimes, you may want a few more options to choose from, so I’ve rounded up all of Australia’s best Boxing Day sales of 2025. Remember to check back frequently; I’ll be spending the lead-up to Christmas adding to this list.

CategoryBrandSale DetailsDatesLink
FurnitureJames LaneUp to 50% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
FurnitureMCM HouseUp to 40% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
FurnitureKoala30% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
FurnitureLounge Lovers20-50% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
FurnitureRJ Living20% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
FurnitureFREEDOM20-60% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
FurnitureTemple & WebsterUp to 40% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
FurnitureCastleryVarious discounts availableSale on nowShop now
FurnitureLuxo LivingUp to 60% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
FurnitureAmartUp to 60% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
FurnitureEvaUp to $350 off select itemsSale on nowShop now
FurnitureBeds n DreamsUp to 60% off sitewideSale on nowShop now

The best Boxing Day homewares sales of 2025

CategoryBrandSale DetailsDatesLink
HomewaresDoubleUp to 70% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresMiss AmaraUp to 50% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresBed Threads20% off everything, 40% off bundlesSale on nowShop now
HomewaresI Love LinenUp to 25% off storewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresSheridanUp to 50% off + a further 20% on select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresSheet SocietyUp to 40% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresNordic Nest20-70% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresTrit HouseUp to 25% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresOne WorldUp to 60% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresAura HomeUp to 50% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresPillow TalkUp to 50% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresNo. 2210 – 50% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresHarris ScarfeUp to 60% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresMiss AmaraUp to 50% off all rugsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresMaison BalzacNew products added to final saleSale on nowShop now
HomewaresLinen HouseUp to 70% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresBed Bath N’ TableUp to 60% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresSalt & PepperUp to 60% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresLe CruesetUp to 40% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresRoyal DoultonUp to 50% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresHouseUp to 50% off + a further 20% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
HomewaresMyHouseUp to 50% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
HomewaresInterior Secrets25% off sitewide with code GET25OFFSale on nowShop now

The best appliance sales of 2025

CategoryBrandSale DetailsDatesLink
AppliancesDysonUp to 55% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
AppliancesKitchenAidUp to 30% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
AppliancesECOVACS20 – 60% off select robot vacuumsSale on nowShop now
AppliancesKoganUp to 70% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
AppliancesThe Good GuysVarious discounts availableSale on nowShop now
AppliancesGreenpanUp to 20% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
AppliancesDesigner AppliancesVarious discounts availableSale on nowShop now
AppliancesBing LeeVarious discounts availableSale on nowShop now
AppliancesSharkUp to 30% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
AppliancesTefalUp to 50% off select itemsSale on nowShop now

The best department store Boxing Day sales of 2025

CategoryBrandSale DetailsDatesLink
Multiple CategoriesDavid JonesUp to 50% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
Multiple CategoriesMyerUp to 60% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
Multiple CategoriesTHE ICONICUp to 60% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
Multiple CategoriesBig WUp to 40% off select itemsSale on nowShop now

The best fashion and beauty Boxing Day Sales of 2025

CategoryBrandSale DetailsDatesLink
BeautySephora30 – 50% off select itemsSale on nowShop now
BeautyNude By Nature40% off full-priced products, exclusions applySale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesEna PellyFrom 40% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesViktoria & WoodsUp to 50% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesMaraisUp to 70% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesAjeFurther 25% off sale itemsSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesShona JoyFurther 30% off saleSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesWitcheryUp to 50% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesCamilla & MarcUp to 40% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesResting15% off sitewideSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesOrotonUp to 50% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesKate Spade30% off full-price stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesCoachUp to 50% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesCoach OutletUp to 50% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesUGG Express20% off select stylesSale on nowShop now
Fashion & AccessoriesFrancesca Jewelley15% off storewide, exclusions applySale on nowShop now

Need to know: Australia’s 2025 Boxing Day sales

When is Boxing Day 2025?

Boxing Day always lands on December 26th, which in 2025, will be a Friday.

How long do Boxing Day sales run?

The start and end dates of Boxing Day sales vary between retailers. However, in previous years, I’ve seen sales start popping up weeks ahead of the 26th and running until the new year.

How does Boxing Day compare to other sale events?

Boxing Day is regularly regarded as one of the biggest sale events of the year, rivalled only by the likes of Black Friday. Shoppers can expect big savings on a range of product categories, spanning furniture, homewares, clothing, tech, and appliances; last year, we saw savings of 20-50% (or more) from some of our favourite brands.

It’s a great opportunity to take home some wishlist items that Santa may not have followed through with, or pick up big-ticket items that don’t usually fall within budget.

What are the best pieces to buy during Boxing Day?

Big-ticket items and pieces you forgot to pick up during the Black Friday sales are great purchases to make during 2025’s Boxing Day sales.

Which is best: Boxing Day or Black Friday?

Boxing Day is of a similar scale to Black Friday but occurs after Christmas. So, if you’ve missed out on a good sale on a wishlist item, Boxing Day is your last chance before the new year to add to cart at a discount.


The post Boxing Day sales have officially begun: this is what you need to know appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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These Boxing Day vacuum sales make me want to clean my home https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/cleaning/black-friday-vacuum-sales/ Fri, 26 Dec 2025 01:19:15 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1281707 A robot vacuum for under $200? Add to cart.

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During this year’s Boxing Day sales, I’m using up the majority of my cart space on a very specific subset of items; ones that simplify routines, save time, and keep my home feeling fresh, healthy and clean. If you haven’t already guessed, I’m talking about vacuums, also known as the hottest-ticket item of the 2025 sale season.

Since making the mistake of opting for a budget-friendly vacuum (instead of my dream Dyson) in February of this year, floor maintenance has become the bane of my existence. After all, there’s nothing worse than making 50 passes at your rug just to be left with more dust bunnies than when you started. So, to help myself and our lovely Home Beautiful readers create quick and easy cleaning routines, I’ve rounded up all the best Boxing Day vacuum sales on robot vacuums, stick vacuums, vacuum-mop combos, and everything in between.


And just in case you’re hoping for some extra expert advice, I’ve enlisted the help of representatives from some of our favourite vacuum brands, including Dreame, Roborock, and Dyson, to help you shop smarter this Boxing Day.


The best Boxing Day robot vacuum deals of 2025

Our editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. Read more here

Cut your cleaning routine down with these handy robot vacuums; it’s never been so easy (or affordable) to keep your floors spotless.

Dreame D10s Robot Vacuum
$499 at Amazon

Roborock Saros 10 Robot Vacuum and Mop
$2999 at Amazon

Product Image of ECOVACS DEEBOT T30S Pro, now 55% off as part of ECOVAC's Black Friday vacuum sale

ECOVACS DEEBOT T30S Pro
$1999 at Amazon

Product Image of Eureka J15 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum, now 45% off as part of Eureka's Black Friday vacuum sale

Eureka J15 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum
$1999 at Amazon

Eufy Clean Mop S1 PRO T2080T11 - black colour

Eufy Clean Mop S1 PRO
$2699.95 $1999 at Myer

iRobot Roomba Plus 405 Combo Robot with Autowash Dock

iRobot Roomba Plus 405 Combo Robot
$1499 $699 at Betta

Electrolux UltimateHome 700 Robotic Vacuum + Mop - white colour

Electrolux UltimateHome 700
$499 at The Good Guys

EUREKA E20 Plus Robot Vacuum and Mop
$862.95 at Amazon


The best Boxing Day stick vacuum deals we’re adding to cart

For targeted cleaning, nothing beats a stick vacuum, and these Boxing Day prices are the best we’ve seen.

Product Image of Tineco Floor ONE S5 Smart Vacuum, now 49% off as part of Tineco's Black Friday vacuum sale

Tineco Floor ONE S5 Smart Vacuum $749 at Amazon

Product Image of Dreame G10 Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner, now 55% off as part of Dreame's Black Friday vacuum sale

Dreame G10 Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner
$599 at Amazon

Dyson V11 Advanced Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
$1199 at Amazon

Shark Stratos Cordless
Pet Pro Vacuum
$799.99 $499.99 at Shark

Dyson Cyclone V10 vacuum

Dyson Cyclone V10
$1099 $694 at Dyson

Miele Duoflex HX1 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
$499 at Amazon

LG CordZero Auto Emptying Handstick with Dual Floor Max Nozzle

LG CordZero Auto-Emptying Handstick Vac
$1399 $999 at LG

Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Vacuum with Auto Empty System

Shark Clean & Empty cordless vacuum with autoempty system
$599 $499.99 at Shark


What to look for when shopping 2025’s Boxing Day vacuum sales

Those who love a spotless home have likely noticed that, in recent months, the popularity of robot vacuums has skyrocketed. In fact, Google Trends shows a steady rise in search volume for the term ‘robot vacuum’ over the last 12 months, and, recently, Home Beautiful’s vacuum guides have been gaining considerable popularity.

However, with the solidification of their coveted status comes fierce competition for the best Boxing Day vacuum deals. The key to beating the masses? Knowing what you’re looking for, being prepared, and getting in early.

Shopping tip: for sparkling floors, make sure you opt for models with a pascall (Pa) level of over 2500; any models with Pa levels lower than this may not offer the suction power you need.

Stick vacuum vs. robot vacuum: Which is better?

According to industry experts, the answer might actually be both. Roborock‘s ANZ Marketing Manager, Bianca Bai, states that the Roborock team has recently been “seeing more households choose both,” explaining that “Robots handle daily maintenance — keeping floors clean automatically — while wet&dry/stick vacuums remain the go-to for spot or deep cleaning. It’s less about choosing one and more about building a complete home-cleaning system.”

The idea that customers are opting for a combination of stick and robot vacuuming has also been seconded by Dreame’s ANZ Category Manager, Patrick Wang, who claimed, “We’re seeing a clear shift in consumer mindset. Customers aren’t choosing one over the other; it’s about understanding how they serve as complementary tools,” adding that, “the robot now handles the daily grind, freeing up the stick vacuum for targeted tasks.”

So, for those of us wanting to get behind this forward-thinking cleaning trend, now’s the best time to take home all the tools you need at the best price possible.

How to get the best deals on Australia’s top vacuum brands

For the best insights on Boxing Day shopping, we went straight to the source. Having claimed the #1 market share in over 18 countries for their robot vacuums, Dreame knows a thing or two about keeping floors spotless. Here’s what their ANZ Category Manager, Patrick Wang, had to say about shopping this year’s top vacuum deals:

“My top insider tip is to prioritise features over instant discounts. While it’s tempting to focus on the biggest price drops, the highest value comes from models that offer advanced capabilities like strong mopping and AI obstacle avoidance. Investing slightly more on Boxing Day for a robot vacuum that is truly autonomous will give you a better return on investment in the long run than buying a basic model that still requires manual work.”


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1281707 Cheapest Robot Vacuum Australia Dreame Vacuum Boxing Day Sales 2025 Roborock Saros 10 Robot Vacuum and Mop Best Boxing Day Robot Vacuum Sales 2025 ECOVACS DEEBOT T30S PRO SALE Eureka J15 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Mop Eufy Clean Mop S1 PRO T2080T11 - black colour iRobot Roomba Plus 405 Combo Robot with Autowash Dock Electrolux UltimateHome 700 Robotic Vacuum + Mop - white colour EUREKA E20 Plus Robot Vacuum and Mop Best Boxing Day Sales Robot Vacuums Australia 2025 Tineco Floor ONE S5 Smart Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner dreame G10 Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner Best Boxing Day Sales vacuum cleaner dyson Dyson V11™ Advanced Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Pro Vacuum Brass Best Boxing Day Sales 2025 Vacuums Australia Dyson Cyclone V10 vacuum Best Boxing Day Vacuum Sales 2025 Miele Duoflex HX1 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner LG CordZero Auto Emptying Handstick with Dual Floor Max Nozzle Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Vacuum with Auto Empty System homebeautiful-1281707
I’m floored by these Dyson Boxing Day deals, with savings of up to $773 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/cleaning/dyson-black-friday/ Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:20:22 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1055587 Adding that coveted Dyson stick vacuum to cart now.

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Dyson is a highly-coveted brand not only for stick vacuums but also for fans, air purifiers, hair tools and more. The brand’s design-led focus blends functionality with style, and with prices to match. But with Boxing Day now upon us, we’ve found some impressive savings on Dyson items, including $773 off the Dyson Gen5outsize Vacuum at Amazon, where it’s $876 instead of $1649.

“The Dyson stick vacuums and Airwraps have gone viral for good reason,” Dyson Brand Ambassador Chantel Mila tells Home Beautiful.

“I get so many questions on my Dyson stick vacuums as they make cleaning so much quicker and easier, and we use ours every day in our home resets, so they’re a must-have.”

“I also recently upgraded to the new Dyson Airwrap, and I can confidently say it lives up to every bit of the hype.”

Chantel Mila, Dyson Brand Ambassador

So, if you’re looking to upgrade your vacuum, home appliances or hair tools, I’ve put together an edit of the most valuable Dyson Boxing Day deals available directly through the brand’s website, as well as with retailers including Myer, David Jones and The Good Guys. Because with a brand as desirable as Dyson, products often sell out.

What you need to know for the Dyson Boxing Day sales of 2025

Best Dyson vacuum and floorcare Black Friday deals

01

Dyson V11 Advanced Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

$1199 at Amazon

The Dyson V8 Absolute stick vacuum cleaner is one of the brand’s more affordable models – but it still packs a punch. It features 40 minutes of run time and the latest hair-detangling technology, so spot-cleaning around the home is easy. If you’re looking for a compact and low-noise unit that is perfect for smaller spaces, the V8 is well worth considering.

“My favourite stick vacuum from Dyson is the V8, and this just got an upgrade with the new V8 Cyclone. It really does make cleaning effortless.”

Chantel Mila, Dyson Brand Ambassador

Also available at:

Best dyson vacuum cleaners.

02

Dyson Gen5detect Absolute

$1,549 $876 at Kogan

Right now, you can save $673 on Dyson’s powerful HEPA cordless vacuum, the Gen5detect Absolute. With up to 70 minutes of run time and 280 Air Watts suction and automatic adjustments based on the amount of dust and dirt detected, this stick vacuum delivers on power.

Also available at:

03

Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

$1999 at Amazon

A robot vacuum is a must-have item this Black Friday – and the Dyson 360 Vis Nav includes full-circle visual navigation to intelligently clean around the home. It also has 26 sensors for obstacle avoidance and dual-link suspension, so it doesn’t get stuck.

Want to read more about the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot? Read our in-depth explainer, here.

Also available at:

Dyson V15 Detect Absolute stick vacuum cleaner

04

Dyson V15 Detect Absolute stick vacuum cleaner

$1449 $776 at Dyson

If you want to know exactly what you’re sucking up from your floors, the Dyson V15 Detect Absolute is what you’re after. The Fluffy Optic cleaner head reveals microscopic particles and adjusts suction as you clean – allowing you to achieve sparkling clean and dust-free floors with every pass.

Also available at:

05

Dyson Wash G1 wet cleaner

$999 $478 at Dyson

The Dyson Wash G1 wet cleaner makes it easy to keep your hard floors shiny. Designed to remove wet and dry dirt from hard floors, this machine will glide and manoeuvre effortlessly around your home.

Want to read more about the Dyson Wash G1? Read our in-depth review by Tahni Mesann, here.

“If you have young kids and pets and find the thought of pulling out a mop too much of a hassle, investing in a Dyson WashG1™ 2-in-1 wet floor cleaner, especially if it’s on sale, is well worth it.”

Chantel Mila, Dyson Brand Ambassador

Also available at:

Best Dyson home appliance Black Friday deals

Dyson Purifier Cool

06

Dyson Purifier Cool

$949 $647 at Dyson

The Dyson Purifier Cool has a sleek design with no spinning blades and is made to purify your entire room. In summer, it can also cool you down with a powerful stream of purified airflow.

Also available at:

Dyson Hot+Cool Formaldehyde fan heater

07

Dyson Hot+Cool Formaldehyde fan heater

$1199 $995 at Bing Lee

The Dyson Hot+Cool Formaldehyde fan heater provides whole-room purification, heating in winter and cooling air in summer. It also features Dyson’s Air Multiplier technology that draws even distant pollutants into the machine.

Also available at:

Best Dyson hair care and tech Black Friday deals

08

Dyson Airstrait straightener and dryer in Ceramic Pink

$749 $497 at Dyson

The Dyson Airstrait has taken the beauty world by storm – and with good reason. Leveraging Dyson’s ahead-of-the-curve technology developments, the Airstrait straightener and dryer is known to offer fast wet-to-dry straightening, without the level of heat damage you would often find with traditional hair straighteners.

Also available at:

09

Dyson Airwrap i.d. Multi-Styler and Dryer

$849 $595 at Dyson

If there’s one hair tool to invest in, it’s none other than the Dyson Airwrap. It’s your all-in-one hair tool that curls, shapes and hides away flyaways to ensure you have bouncy and sleek locks at all times.

Also available at:

Dyson OnTrack headphones in CNC Black Nickel

10

Dyson OnTrack Headphones

$799 $399 at Dyson

When we asked Dyson Brand Ambassador what Dyson products go ‘under-the-radar’, she drew our attention to these stylish headphones. Designed to be best-in-class for noise-cancelling headphones, they have an enhanced sound range of 6Hz to 21kHz and up to 55 hours of battery life.

“I recently gifted a pair of Dyson OnTrac headphones to my husband, and I think they are the most underrated Dyson product and the perfect gift for those tricky to shop for people in your life,” she says.

“They’re perfect for teenagers, partners, commuters or anyone looking to add more fitness into their 2026 goals. What I love most about them is that they come in a range of colours and custom colour pairings, making them feel like a really personalised gift.”


Where to find the best Dyson Boxing Day deals

Tips to shop for Dyson in the Boxing Day sales

If your inbox is as cluttered as mine with Boxing Day deals, or your browser is as full of advertisements for them, it helps to have a clear focus. So if Dyson is on your wishlist, here are some simple tips to find the savings you really want.

1. Shop around for Dyson deals

Dyson has a dedicated Boxing Day section on-site, but I’ve already noticed some products have sold out. Having a list of other retailers that sell Dyson vacuums and other tech means you can easily switch to a different site to find what you want.

2. Focus on what will make your life easier

When we spoke with Chantel Mila, she made some great points about Christmas shopping that also apply to Boxing Day.

“At Christmas, we run the risk of ending up with gifts that go unused, adding unnecessary clutter to our homes and eventually contributing to landfill,” she says.

“My biggest tip this year is to look at what your daily pain points are in the home (messy floors, pet hair) and opt for products that make your life easier and will genuinely be used every single day.”

Chantel Mila, Dyson Brand Ambassador

“I think this year, shoppers are becoming a lot more intentional with their spending, opting for durable, high- quality items, built to last,” she added.

3. Check out multifunctional features

Dyson has innovated in the vacuum, haircare and home tech spaces, with appliances that can do more than one thing – and do them very well. But the value of this only really comes into play if you’re aware of what those features are, so it’s worth checking out product specs to help prioritise your Dyson Boxing Day deals.

“As we become more conscious of the number of items we keep in our home and the amount of space they take up, products that serve multiple purposes are becoming more popular,” Mila says.

“I’m noticing this when shopping too – I’m finding myself being drawn to items like washer and dryer combos or a vacuum and wet floor cleaner in one. Or in the beauty space, one tool that can both straighten and curl hair, like the Airwrap. Multi-functionality is definitely the way things are moving.”

When does Dyson’s Boxing Day sale begin?

Each year, Boxing Day falls on December 26th. This means that Dyson’s Boxing Day sales are already live on their official website, as well as on various retailers such as The Good Guys, David Jones, Amazon and more.

How does Dyson’s Boxing Day sale compare to other yearly sales?

Boxing Day is undoubtedly the biggest sale event of the year. However, Black Friday is becoming more and more popular in Australia, and is proving to be of similar scale to Boxing Day sales (in both the amount of savings we’re being greeted with, as well as how many retailers in Australia that take part in this epic sale event).

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1055587 Dyson V11™ Advanced Cordless Vacuum Cleaner best-dysons (1) dyson-robot-vacuum v15-detect-absolute dyson-g1-wash dyson-cool-purifier dyson-hot-cool-fan dyson-straightner Best Sale on Dyson Airwrap Boxing Day Sale Australia 2025 dyson-on-track-headphones homebeautiful-1055587
The Boxing Day mattress deals worth jumping into bed for https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/black-friday-mattress-sales/ Thu, 25 Dec 2025 23:05:43 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1056094 There's no place like bed.

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If you’ve been debating whether it’s finally time to invest in a new mattress, consider this your sign: Boxing Day sales are here, and the best deals have officially begun.

No matter how much you pimp and plump your bed linen, hack your way to the right sleeping environment or style up a storm with the new season cushions, having the right mattress will ultimately yield the best night’s sleep.


As one of the biggest ticket items you’ll invest in for your home, before taking the plunge, it’s worth taking advantage of the year’s biggest sales, and now is the time to do so. Whether you’re upsizing to a king, replacing your honeymoon mattress or have had your eye on a luxurious comfort upgrade for some time, you’ll be pleased to know that we haven’t been lying down on the job.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best Boxing Day mattress sales of 2025 that you can shop right now. Let’s jump into it, shall we?


We bet you’ll love these 2025 Boxing Day sale guides


The best Boxing Day mattress sales of 2025

RetailerDiscount / OfferStart DateNotes / RestrictionsLink
Emma SleepUp to 45% offSale on nowSelect itemsShop Now
EvaUp to $350 offSale on nowSelect itemsShop Now
EcosaUp to 35% offSale on nowSitewideShop Now
Sleeping GiantUp to 50% offSale on nowSitewideShop Now
KoalaUp to 30% off + extra $100 off at checkoutSale on nowUp to 30% off + an extra $100 off at checkoutShop Now
Temple & WebsterUp to 40% offSale on nowSelect itemsShop Now
OriginUp to 53% offSale on nowSitewideShop Now
MockaUp to 50% off + extra 10% off with code BOXING10Sale on nowSelect itemsShop Now
Sleep Republic25% off mattressesSale on nowSitewideShop Now
ErgoflexUp to 35% offSale on nowSelect itemsShop Now
Beds n DreamsUp to 60% offSale on nowSelect itemsShop Now

The best Boxing Day mattress sales of 2025

With options suited to every budget, there’s no reason not to invest in rest this Boxing Day, and take home a luxurious mattress for much, much less than the usual prices.

Koala Luxe Mattress, Queen

Koala Luxe Mattress, Queen
$2390 $1673 at Koala

Art & Science Platinum Mattress, Queen

Art & Science Platinum Mattress, Queen
$2199 $1099 at Sleeping Giant

Premium Adapt Mattress, Queen

Premium Adapt Mattress, Queen
$1690 $1440 at Eva

Ecosa Mattress, Queen

Ecosa Mattress, Queen
$1150 $862.50 at Ecosa

Sealy Advantage Skye Firm Mattress, Queen

Sealy Advantage Skye Firm Mattress, Queen
$1199 $539.55 at Myer

Sleep Republic LUXE Mattress, Queen

Sleep Republic LUXE Mattress, Queen
$2199 $1649.25 at Sleep Republic

Emma Comfort Mattress, Queen

Emma Luxe Pro Mattress, Queen
$1990 $1094.50 at Emma Sleep

FREEDOM Cirrus Mattress Firm, Queen

FREEDOM Cirrus Mattress Firm, Queen
$799 $639 at FREEDOM



Expert tips for smarter mattress shopping this Boxing Day

When it comes to choosing the right mattress, the sheer volume of options can prove a little overwhelming. That’s why, to help you make sense of common mattress features and identify which ones matter to you, we enlisted the help of sleep expert Ken Lau, otherwise known as the Co-Founder of Eva.

What’s the difference between budget, mid-range, and high-end mattresses?


Think of it like looking under the hood of a car. Not all mattresses are made the same. The difference between budget, mid-range, and high-end really comes down to the materials, how they’re made, and the time that goes into production.

Budget mattresses are usually simple to make, mostly polyester, and rarely include natural materials. They can do the job for a couple of years, but might wear out faster and do not offer the same support or comfort as higher-quality options. Mid-range mattresses use better materials like cotton, tencel, or latex, which makes them more comfortable, breathable, and durable. High-end mattresses take it even further, often handcrafted with natural and expensive materials, and built to last over a decade.

You will also notice the difference in how they feel. Budget tends to be basic and firmer, mid-range provides more support and comfort, and high-end often adapts to your body, helping with pressure relief and temperature regulation. Many high-end mattresses also come with longer warranties, trial periods, and better aftercare so you can feel confident in your investment. Basically, the more thought and quality that goes into the mattress, the better your sleep will be and the longer it will last.

What mattress features make for a great night’s sleep?


A great night’s sleep really depends on the sleeper. There is no one mattress that suits everyone, so it’s important to understand your own sleeping style. Side sleepers usually do best with something medium to medium-firm, so your hips sink in just enough to keep your spine aligned. Back sleepers tend to prefer something firmer. Picking the right firmness for your sleeping position is half the battle.

The material also matters. Some people love the contouring feel of memory foam, while others prefer the bounce and support of latex. At Eva, we offer both options so you can find what suits you. Once you’ve chosen, you also need to give yourself a little time to break in your mattress, almost like breaking in a new pair of shoes. After that, you’re set for better, more comfortable sleep.

What should shoppers consider when choosing between firm and soft mattresses?



When choosing between firm and soft mattresses, it really comes down to your sleeping style. Side sleepers usually need something medium to medium-firm so their hips and shoulders can sink in just enough to keep their spine aligned. Back sleepers tend to do better with a firmer mattress that supports their lower back. Basically, the right firmness matches how you sleep. That’s half the battle for a great night’s sleep.

If you were to buy a brand new mattress tomorrow, which one would you choose and why?


Definitely the Premium Adapt Mattress. I actually sleep on one now, and since hitting my 30s, I’ve realised my back isn’t quite as forgiving as it used to be. What I love about this mattress is that I’ve been able to adjust the layers over the years as my needs have changed. It’s one of those things you don’t think you’ll need until you do and then you’re so glad you have it. 

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From TV to tree: Tara Dennis’ genius hacks for a beautiful Christmas on any budget https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/christmas/tara-dennis-christmas-decorating-tips-pineapple/ Tue, 23 Dec 2025 21:43:40 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284077 Our beloved homewares queen is spilling her best-kept secrets for creating a stunning Christmas look, proving you don’t need to start from scratch.

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Tara Dennis lives and breathes Christmas. In her Balmain homewares haven, she’s forever swapping jingling bells for evergreen wreaths, only to see them whisked away by inspired shoppers. “Even yesterday, I was chopping things down, thinking, ‘What goes here next?’ It’s an ever-evolving Christmas theme,” she laughs. Nothing stays the same for long.

On any given day, Tara might be scaling a ladder with a champagne bucket under one arm and linen napkins in the other, or tweaking festive windows late at night to spark tomorrow’s ideas. “My magic is making home feel like home – the best it can be,” she says. “Retail is just an extension of what I did on TV. I’m still helping people create beautiful spaces.”

Her genius approach to styling takes the stress out of decorating. Simple, heartfelt tips that work with what you already own, and won’t blow the budget.

Listen to Tara’s brilliant Christmas decorating ideas on The Edit – a new podcast by Home Beautiful

In her own home, Christmas begins in the most magical way – on Christmas Eve. After weeks of styling countless trees for her store, Tara finally turns her creative energy homeward. When the last happy customer leaves and the shop doors close, the family heads to their river house, ready to embrace the season.

A glass of champagne marks the end of the busiest stretch and the start of a well-earned celebration. With her husband and son – both as passionate about the season as she is – Tara transforms their river house into a festive sanctuary.

Tara Dennis River House Christmas Entertaining pineapple themed dining table decorations and a pavlova topped with dried pineapple flowers
(Credit: Photography: Martyn Rushby / Styling: Tara Dennis)

This year, Tara’s Christmas table celebrates the ultimate icon of summer – the pineapple. Inspired by its fresh, sun-kissed palette of soft yellows and vibrant greens, her setting begins with an elegant block-printed linen tablecloth. Down the centre runs a lush evergreen garland, accented with colour-matched baubles and ribbons for a look that feels effortless yet elevated.

Tara Dennis River House Christmas Entertaining pineapple themed dining table decorations with a lit tapered candle melting down to a brass candlestick
(Credit: Photography: Martyn Rushby / Styling: Tara Dennis)

Tara’s skill in reinventing what you already own to create a festive look is her secret weapon and something she’s honed over years of visual merchandising. It’s not difficult to achieve. “If customers don’t have a lot of money to spend, I’ll say OK, great, let’s get some ribbon. Let’s dolly up what you had last year and make it better,” says Tara. “Do you have some decorations from your tree left over from last year? Maybe you can add those to a new wreath and make it more personal and yours. It’s the little touches…”

Each year, Tara’s Christmas style draws on trends she spots during her travels. This season, it’s all about layering personality into the table. Dust off Grandma’s candlesticks (tapered candles are having a major moment) and line them down the centre for instant elegance. If pineapples aren’t your thing, swap in seasonal touches: split a market bunch of Christmas bush into petite posies or create a fresh herb row with supermarket pots for a simple, chic twist.

Tara Dennis River House Christmas Entertaining pineapple themed dining table decorations
(Credit: Photography: Martyn Rushby / Styling: Tara Dennis)

The star of Tara’s Christmas menu this year is a pavlova crowned with delicate dried pineapple flowers. “I bought a Sunbeam dehydrator last year, and I got it out again last night to make a whole bunch of pineapple blooms for my pavlova,” she says. Her decorations echo this sunny palette—soft yellows paired with warm brass candlesticks and cream-tinted tapers. By stripping back other colours, Tara lets these tones shine, carrying the theme through with tiny ribbons on glassware and a hint of sparkle in the baubles.

The post From TV to tree: Tara Dennis’ genius hacks for a beautiful Christmas on any budget appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1284077 Tara Dennis’ hacks for a beautiful Christmas on any budget%%sep%% %%sitename%% Discover Tara Dennis’ genius Christmas styling tips from a chic, pineapple-inspired colour palettes to reinventing what you already own. the edit podcast,tara dennis christmas decorating tips pineapple Tara Dennis Christmas Entertaining_ (1) Tara Dennis Christmas tree decorations THE EDIT HOME BEAUTIFUL PODCAST TARA DENNIS Inside Tara Dennis’ beautiful riverside home Tara Dennis Christmas Entertaining_ (6) Tara Dennis Christmas Entertaining_ pineapple-table-wide homebeautiful-1284077
Entertaining with ease: Krissy Marsh on what really makes the ultimate host https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/home-beautiful-podcast-krissy-marsh/ Mon, 22 Dec 2025 02:38:31 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1284035 The Edit podcast from the team at Home Beautiful is a space to connect and belong to a growing group of our audience who want to go behind the scenes of our glossy pages to discover exactly what makes a house a home. We’re talking to our favourite people in the interiors world – designers, […]

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The Edit podcast from the team at Home Beautiful is a space to connect and belong to a growing group of our audience who want to go behind the scenes of our glossy pages to discover exactly what makes a house a home.

We’re talking to our favourite people in the interiors world – designers, retailers, homewares heroes, and some unexpected interiors enthusiasts who’ll share what makes their own homes special, from the first memories of the spaces they inhabited in childhood to how they live and entertain today.


In this episode of The Edit, Elle sits down with friend of Home Beautiful and Real Housewives of Sydney star, Krissy Marsh, for an intimate and entertaining conversation all about hosting.

Krissy Marsh, Real Housewives of Sydney OG and domestic goddess of Double Bay, joins The Edit and Editor Elle Lovelock from Home Beautiful to talk hosting that’s big on heart, not hard work. This episode is packed with Krissy Marsh’s entertaining tips, from Tuesday night special ‘family style’ dinners to Christmas feasts, plus a peek inside her chic Home Beautiful house tour. 

Real Housewives of Sydney fans will love her real and special stories about fellow cast members Victoria Montano and Nicole O’Neil, including Nicole’s “ridiculous amounts of dessert” and Victoria’s infamous party “out times”. If you’ve ever wanted to know how to host like Krissy Marsh without the stress this is an episode where you’ll want to “come over”. 

“Even if I am super organised and people arrive a little bit late, I’ll still give them a job because I think giving people a job makes them feel good.”

Krissy Marsh
Krissy Marsh and her dog sitting on a sofa in the all-white living room.
A true host in every sense, Krissy opens the doors to one of her famously exclusive parties, sharing her approach to entertaining right down to the tableware details. (Photography: Kristina Soljo / Styling: Corina Koch)

From food and family to guests and the heart behind the table, Krissy shares what it really takes to entertain with ease and intention.

“One thing I do hate… Victoria Montan0… will invite you and give you an out time. She goes to all this incredible effort, puts on the most amazing food, and then wants you out by two thirty. I’m like, ‘Oh, forget it!’”

Krissy Marsh

If you love refining your home sanctuary, interior design, home makeovers and real-life renovation advice, this episode of The Edit is your ultimate starting point. Hit play to get inspired, get practical tips you can use this weekend, and see your home with fresh eyes.

The Edit Episode 5

The Edit by Home Beautiful

Our newest space, “The Edit” – a podcast from the team at Home Beautiful, is supported by OZ Design and Luxaflex.

Discover the real stories, personalities, and inspiring ideas behind how Australians create their style and sanctuary.

Whether you’re looking for a burst of inspiration, clever home ideas, or a little audio comfort, this show is for anyone who wants to make their space truly their own.

Listen now: Episode five of The Edit is available via the iHeart app, homebeautiful.com.au, or wherever you get your podcasts watch below or listen here

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1284035 The Edit podcast with Krissy Marsh %%sep%% %%sitename%% The Edit podcast from the team at Home Beautiful is a space to connect and belong to a growing group of our audience who want to go behind the scenes of the edit podcast,home beautiful podcast krissy marsh krissy-marsh-1920s-home-classic-white-living-room homebeautiful-1284035
Beyond white: The exterior paint colours that are trending in 2026 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/outdoor-ideas/trending-exterior-paint-colours/ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:58:42 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1263063 Your guide to the trendy yet timeless exterior paint colours for a facade with serious street appeal in 2025 and beyond.

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First impressions are important. The exterior paint colours of your home are the first thing people see, so if they’re dated or faded, it’ll leave your place looking lacklustre before anyone’s even reached the front door. A fresh lick of paint can make a big difference, but choosing exterior paint colours is not the easiest decision. “There are many considerations you have to make, especially around roofing, gutters, fascia and fencing,” says Andrea Lucena-Orr, colour and communications manager at Dulux.

For a look that’ll last for years, avoid anything that’s already on its way out. “We’re definitely in the no more grey camp, please!” says Melanie Parker, co-founder of interior design studio Ivy + Piper. Read on as our colour experts reveal the new grey and other trending shades, plus how to add these exterior paint colours to your own home.

Exterior paint colours for heritage homes

Trending exterior paint colours on a heritage home, including white on the walls and black on the trim. There is a pool beside the Tudor-revival style building.
(Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Going with colours you have a fervour for is important, but also consider the style of your home. If it’s a heritage property, certain shades will feel more appropriate. This Tudor Revival-style home in Brisbane was built in the Art Deco era and updated with help from Ivy + Piper. The exterior is painted Dulux Vivid White with striking Dulux Black detailing, which looks authentic with the aesthetic (as Tudor homes have quite a specific look). “A classic white house with black trim never dates, but we like to see some texture added with brick or stone to accentuate the clean colour palette,” says Melanie.

Classics to try

Be informed by your home’s original era and architecture when considering shades for its exterior. A fresh coat of paint in colours that suit its origins could be the best option, rather than diving into the latest hot hue.

Style tips for exterior paint colours

Try unexpected pops of colour

A home in Sydney's Eastern suburbs that has a soft pink on the window trims, a custom green on the fascia and soffits alongside a neutral white on the walls.
(Photography: Alana Landsberry)

Just like the unexpected red theory that has swept interiors, an unexpected pop of colour on your exterior can be equally stylish and trendy. “We always encourage clients to work with some unexpected colour on the trim and soffits,” says Melanie. This home in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs is a perfect example, featuring Dulux Piglet on the window trims with a custom green on the fascia (the pitched boards beneath the edge of the roof) and soffits (the underside of the roof overhang).

This up-to-date colour combo has endless possibilities. “A pale pink soffit with a dark green main house colour is unexpected but refreshing,” explains Melanie. “When working with old homes with architectural details, don’t be afraid to paint your deck’s ceiling strapping a contrasting colour or pick a two-toned trim combination for the windows and sills.” Stay open-minded about the possibilities of placing colour in interesting places.

Perfect combination

Think outside the box when deciding which elements of your facade to define. Walls are an obvious choice, but fascia, fencing, fretwork, window frames and soffits are others.

Where to add accent colours

Bold and bright front door colours

A classic two-storey manor style house with a white exterior and peach shutters.
(Photography: Lisa Cohen / Styling: Tess Newman-Morris)

Kate Walker and the KWD team elevated a pink-toned colour palette in this exterior, with shutters in Dulux Recycled which flank the front door in Porter’s Paints Newport Blue. “Most people tend to stick to whites, neutrals or darker charcoals on the windows, fascia and trims outside,” says Andrea. “Doors tend to be more creative, painted in many different colours.” Using a dash of a fun shade on your door or storm shutters can be an easy way to update your facade – and they don’t need to match.

“Front doors are, of course, an easy way to personalise your exterior paint scheme quickly and easily,” agrees Melanie. “Go for bright, glossy shades to accentuate the door’s design and welcome guests in.” If a brazen blue door is too daring for you, opt for a more muted tone that appeals to you. The year ahead is heralding in happy shades of all sorts, from soft lilac to pretty coral and rich plum. The key is to find a splendid paint colour that resonates with you and your style of home.

Popular playful picks

Melanie recommends using a vibrant shade on your front door to energise your home’s facade. For a sense of cohesion, use small doses of the same paint colour elsewhere on your exterior, play with half- or quarter-strengths, or add a complementary hue.

Creating cohesion with exterior paint colours

Timeless yet trendy green exteriors

This classic Queenslander cottage has the trending exterior paint colour of Dulux Remote Control, a relaxing sage green, beside white trims and a white picket fence.
(Photography: Hannah Puechmarin)

In recent years, we saw sage green everywhere. Now we’re seeing the full spectrum of this calming colour being used liberally on the facades of homes, from cool mint and warm olive to deep moss. “We love a splash of green on the exterior of a home and it can be accented with contrasting trims in really interesting ways,” explains Melanie. “Our East Toowoomba project features Dulux Remote Control, which can work beautifully on both modern contemporary and traditional homes. Another dark green favourite is Dulux Deep Brunswick Green.” When applied in palatable tones, green can pass as a neutral and is a welcome alternative to grey for Melanie. “We appreciate our lives are far more interesting than grey, and so our homes should be also,” she says.

Greens that are in

If you’re going all in on a gallant shade of green, offset it with crisp white trims and natural details for a look that’s elegant and timeless.

Trendy yet timeless exterior paint colours

Trending neutrals

A heritage home exterior with decorative fretwork, leadlight windows and autumn trees.
(Photography: Elise Scott / Styling: Bea + Co)

Your comfort zone colours haven’t gone anywhere, they’re just getting warmer. “We’re seeing greys, stone, greige, tans, beige, sand and both warm and cool whites used on exteriors,” explains Andrea. Dulux White Swan adds subtle depth to the weatherboard facade of this heritage home, while Dulux Lexicon Quarter highlights the ornate fretwork and frames the blues and greens in the decorative front door glazing. “As fate would have it, the original leadlight windows at the front of the house included these beautiful tones,” says interior designer Jessica Viscarde of Eclectic Creative. “They provided a stepping stone to explore colour, and the foundation that we built on.”

When designing for clients, Melanie and her Ivy + Piper co-founder, Elizabeth Flekser, are embracing the shift from cool greys towards creams, browns and earthier tones. “We know everyone feels comfortable with grey as it’s so safe, however it’s been drastically overused. Grey should only really be used on trims from here on in!” she shares. “We’re loving cinnamon and ginger shades, such as Resene Crème de la Crème, Porter’s Paints Biscotti or Porter’s Paints Cinnamon Sugar. Great soft whites are Dulux Natural White or Porter’s Paints Bone, which is still fresh yet soft.”

The new beige shades

Combine timeless and trendy by using a soft yet spicy cinnamon shade on your walls, paired with deep green detailing on external windows or doors, for a facade that feels warm and welcoming.

Warm exterior paint colours

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1263063 Exterior-paint-colours-heritage-home-tudor-revival-style-pool-dulux-vivid-white-black-trim Exterior-paint-colours-unexpected-colour-trim-dulux-piglet-window-trim-green-fascia-pink-soffit-architectural-details contemporary-classic-country-house-exterior Exterior-paint-colours-sage-green-calming-queenslander-dulux-deep-brunswick-green-white-trims-elegant-timeless colourful-heritage-renovation-melbourne-exterior homebeautiful-1263063
Your chance to WIN $1 Million! https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/chance-millionaire/ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:43:44 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283670 What would $1 million change for you? A home that finally fits your family or a renovation you’ve been dreaming about. Freedom to live a little lighter – now and into the future. Home Beautiful is giving one reader $5,000 and the opportunity to win $1 million. Enter today for your chance to make it happen. […]

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What would $1 million change for you?

A home that finally fits your family or a renovation you’ve been dreaming about. Freedom to live a little lighter – now and into the future.

Home Beautiful is giving one reader $5,000 and the opportunity to win $1 million.

Enter today for your chance to make it happen.

Good Luck!

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These Australian cities are getting the best weather on Christmas Day https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/christmas-day-weather-forecast-australia-2025/ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 03:59:32 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283673 From sun to storms and everything in between.

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The weather can dictate how your Christmas Day plans play out. Whether you’re planning an early morning swim at the beach, an outdoor lunch or a laid-back afternoon in the pool, most of our plans hitch on the idea of a warm and sunny Christmas day. While most Australian cities will be seeing some sun, thunderstorms are still on the cards for others.

At this stage, it’s still too early to get an very accurate weather reading but we’re starting to get some idea of what the day might look like. As we wait for The Bureau of Meteorology to release the official weather predictions closer to Christmas, the experts at AccuWeather is giving us a good idea of what to expect.

An outdoor dining table with geese in the background.
(Credit: Photography: Kate Enno / Styling: Annalese Hay)

Christmas Day weather around Australia

Sydney, NSW

Christmas in Sydney is expected to be a warm and cloudy. While the temperature is set to be a moderate 25 degrees, Sydney’s humidity will probably make it feel a few degrees warmer than that. There’s a chance of a shower or two but we’re crossing our fingers for it to hold off until the evening.

Predicted temperature: 25°C

Melbourne, VIC

Melbourne is set to have a moderately warm Christmas this year with the temperature predicted to reach 18°C. The day is expected to be cloudy with a chance of a shower during the morning.

Predicted temperature: 18°C

Brisbane, QLD

This year, Brisbane is expected to enjoy a hot and humid Christmas with a mix of bright spells and showers. With a chance of a thunderstorm, it’s nothing that Queenslanders haven’t experienced before.

Predicted temperature: 32°C

Perth, WA

As usual, Christmas in Perth is expected to be hot and sunny with the temperature getting up to 40 degrees. It will be mostly sunny with a little cloud cover.

Predicted temperature: 40°C

Adelaide, SA

Those in Adelaide can expect a hot Christmas with the temperature reaching 27°C. The day should stay sunny with decreasing cloud cover.

Predicted temperature: 30°C

Darwin, NT

As expected in Darwin in December, Christmas day is expected to be hot and and humid. The temperature should reach 33°C but feel more like 40°C, making the expected afternoon thunderstorm a much needed relief from the heat.

Predicted temperature: 32°C

Hobart, TAS

It’s going to be a cooler Christmas day in Hobart with an expected high of 17°C and some cloud cover. There’s also a slight chance of a shower.

Predicted temperature: 17°C

Canberra, ACT

Canberra is expecting a hot Christmas with the temperature reaching a high of 29°C. However, there is still the slight chance of a shower, cooling things down in the afternoon.

Predicted temperature: 29°C

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5 New Year’s resolutions to set for a happier home in 2026  https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/lifestyle/home-new-years-resolutions/ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 03:05:23 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1262343 New year, new home.

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New Year’s resolutions can help us enter the new year with more clarity and intention. When it comes to our homes, setting intentions for the year ahead provides us with an opportunity to reflect on how we’re currently living and what we would like to change. Whether it’s finally figuring out a cleaning routine that works for your household or simply trying to enjoy your space more in the new year, we all have different goals that we would like to achieve in our homes.

If you need some inspiration, then we have come up with five New Year’s home resolutions that will make your life at home more enjoyable in 2026.

5 New Year’s resolutions to make for your home in 2026

1. Stop following microtrends

Photographer: Abbie Melle

If you’re an avid decorator, then you might have fallen prey to one or two of the many microtrends circulating online. These trends, which can be identified by their niche label and fleeting popularity, convince us to buy things we don’t need (and in many cases, even like). Whether the coquette-core aesthetic leads you down a rabbit hole of pink frilly bedspreads that now repulse you or the cottagecore trend left you with so many glass jars your kitchen now looks like a medieval apothecary, it’s time to take a different approach in 2026.

Rather than letting the rise of fast decor push you into overconsumption, take some time to identify a style that feels right to you and slow down your homeware purchases. A good way to slow down your consumption is to give yourself a few weeks’ breathing space for buying something that you like. During this time, you might realise that you don’t actually need another patterned lampshade and the money might be better spent on a new kitchen appliance. You might also decide to create a wishlist of items you would like for your home and slowly purchase good-quality versions of these items throughout the year.

2. Simplify your home

A neutral kitchen with stone benchtops and shaker cabinets.
(Credit: Photography: Ryan Linnegar / Styling: Holly Irvine)

If any part of your home is feeling overwhelming—whether it’s your decor or cleaning routine—then that might be a good indicator that you need to start simplifying your space. This might look like committing to slowly decluttering your home over the year and dedicating some time each week to going through those rooms, drawers and cupboards that you never get to in your normal cleaning routine. It might also look like swapping your cupboard full of cleaning products for a simple vinegar, bicarb soda and lemon combination, or adopting a one-in-one-out approach to clothing and children’s toys. If your home feels easy to clean and manage, then it’s also going to be more enjoyable to live in.

3. Create a sustainable cleaning routine

American barn style laundry.
(Photography and styling: Louise Roche)

If cleaning your home has become a mammoth, exhausting task that you dread, you might benefit from creating a more sustainable cleaning routine in 2026. Get the whole household together and assign your older children some daily household chores they can tackle by themselves—such as taking the bin out or emptying the dishwasher. While your specific routine will depend on your own household and lifestyle, you might find the viral ‘6/10 list’ cleaning schedule helpful—especially if you can palm off some of those daily tasks to other members of your household.

4. Bring more beauty into your home

Photographer: Brigid Arnott

It’s easy to get so caught up in cleaning, organising and decorating our homes that we forget what it feels like to really make the most of living in them. This year, try to bring more beauty into your life at home – whether that’s lighting a candle with your evening meal, filling vases with fresh bunches of seasonal blooms or simply appreciating the view out of your kitchen window while doing the dishes, there are many beautiful ways to romanticise our lives at home.

5. Embrace the mess

(Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Lisa Hilton)

Our lives are messy—and our homes can be too. In 2026, try committing to a new mindset of embracing the mess when you need to. Whether it’s hosting a spontaneous barbecue with friends at your house, even if the house isn’t in the best shape, or leaving the cleaning for another day to spend time with your kids or have a rest with a good book, don’t let your home demand too much of you. In 2026, remember that your home is a place to rest and relax as much as it’s a place to style and show.

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1262343 <p><strong>LIVING ROOM</strong> A trio of stacked artworks adds character to the room.</p> before-and-after-californian-bungalow-kitchen-neutral-palette american-barn-laundry Photography and styling: Lousie Roche <p>A round owl cushion from Adairs looks at home against linen from Sage x Clare and Society of Wanderers. For a similar style of table lamp, try Adairs.</p> <p>The balcony beyond the couple's bedroom offers a cleverly built-in couch on one end. A Malawi Cane Traditional open-weave table displays a Sondu 'Iringa' basket from Papaya (used as a plant holder) and is the ideal spot for a morning coffee.</p> homebeautiful-1262343
The Paris Edit: Expect these bold interior trends to take over in 2026 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/style-forecast/the-paris-edit-interior-home-trends-2026/ Thu, 18 Dec 2025 23:10:21 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283783 A year of decadent interiors and personality-led design.

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It was The Devil Wears Prada that first taught me just how predictable trends really are. Aesthetics that once seemed fleeting or impulsive are, in fact, deeply referential; a reflection of culture, current events, art, and decades of design history. As Miranda Priestly’s monologue on the cerulean sweater expertly explained, trends rarely appear out of nowhere; they arrive fully informed.

In my last edition of the Paris Edit, I explored how the decadent colour palettes seen at Milan Design Week could translate into homes in 2026. Now, with fresh insights from Pinterest Predicts (rather than Pantone, whose Colour of the Year winner proved all too underwhelming), the broader view of 2026’s emerging home trends is beginning to come into focus.

From playful, personality-led interiors to refined modern glamour and a renewed interest in moody, mystical landscapes, these aesthetics offer distinct yet complementary ways to shape the spaces we live in, each grounded in intention and balance


Playful, personality-first design: Fun Haus

Key Elements: circus-inspired stripes and spots, absurd statement pieces, loud colours (tomato red, in particular)

In 2026, interiors are softening their stance. Enter Fun Haus: a playful, personality-led aesthetic that invites a little levity back into the home. Colour returns, pattern reappears, and rooms begin to feel less staged and more human.

But this isn’t maximalism for maximalism’s sake. This dopamine-boosting aesthetic works best when paired with restraint and a clear point of view; rather than committing wholesale, the aesthetic is most effective when employed through smaller gestures. Think a cheerful hue against a neutral base or a graphic accent that infuses the space with playful energy without overwhelming the room. The result feels intentional and quietly joyful.

 2026 Interior Home Trends Personality Decor Fun Haus Bright Colours

Hand Cocktail Napkins
$119 at Maison Balzac

Noosa 3 Seater Chaise Sofa
$4999 at One World

Corelle Logan Dinnerware Set
$149 at Amazon


The whimsical use of earthy hues: Mystical Outlands

Key Elements: organic, curved forms, comforting palettes of green, cream, and rust, and statement lighting

Those who read my previous edition of The Paris Edit about the evolution of earthy interiors already know that rich, moody palettes are set to dominate interior design in 2026. And, with the release of Pinterest’s Mystic Outlands trend, we now have a clearer picture of just how this is set to look. 

With organic shapes, palettes of decadent greens, browns, and ochre, and tactile textures woven in, it’s an aesthetic that lends a sense of both comfort and intrigue to the home, without being difficult to implement. To weave into your space, start with an organic, flora-esque pendant light and some olive and rust accent pieces for an easy foundation to build upon.

 2026 Interior Home Trends Mystic Highlands Earthy Colours Rich Palettes

Mellow Armchair in Eden Brick
$1199 at RJ Living

Theatre Bone Rug
from $376 at Double

Idle Coffee Table
$1999 at RJ Living


A modern approach to a crowd favourite: Neo Deco

Key Elements: pendant lamps, marble, brass accents, dark wood , and rust tones

In 2026, the emerging Neo Deco trend brings a refined sense of glamour back into the home. Drawing on the elegance of Art Deco, but reworked to complement modern lives, the aesthetic favours sculptural forms, rich finishes and confident geometry, all delivered with contemporary restraint.

Neo Deco interiors are perfect for those looking to embrace a richer, more luxurious aesthetic in the new year. However, those indulging in the trend must remember that this isn’t about recreating the past; Neo Deco should feel modern in its editing. Think decadent jewel tones (used sparingly), curved silhouettes contrasted against clean lines, and brass accents that tie it all together.

 2026 Interior Home Trends Neo Deco Art Deco Decor is back: brass, rust tones

Brenda Table Lamp
$132 at Myer

Aligned New Jute Rug
from $265 at Double

Draper Swivel Armchair
$1199 $959.20 at RJ Living


Local interior experts on their 2026 trend predictions

When making interior trend predictions, the key is to collate as many perspectives as possible and attempt to identify where themes are beginning to overlap. And after reaching out to representatives from a range of Australia’s leading home brands, I can see plenty of elements popping up in every conversation. The hero trends? Deep colours, personality-led interiors, and bold, statement-making design choices.

Kate McGlone, Winnings‘ Group Design Manager, predicts that three key interior trends will emerge in 2026: “Rich, confident colour palettes, bold, high-gloss sophistication, and the elevated laundry.”

She states that design enthusiasts should “expect to see rich tones of purple and mustard make their way into interiors next year.” However, if you want to go deeper than decor, her high-gloss mention might add some more excitement: “Think darling high gloss finishes and intentional joinery. Whether it’s through statement kitchen cabinetry, accent furniture or a striking feature wall, this look is all about embracing bold opulence to bring depth, confidence and individuality into the home.”

Similarly, Temple & Webster‘s Director of Insights and Trends, Lucy Sutherland, sees 2026 interiors angling away from the quiet minimalism we’ve grown so used to, and towards “individuality and emotional connection.” She states that “we’re seeing a real shift away from that overly curated, ‘one-look-fits-all’ style toward homes, and are now seeing spaces filled with more warmth, personality and meaning,” adding that “comfort, character and authenticity are the new markers of style.”

Big Bulb Wall Light
$2005 at Winnings

De La Espada Carlo Side Table
$2940 at Winnings

Hepburn Velvet Storage Ottoman
$169.99 at Temple & Webster

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1283783 2026 Interior Home Trends Personality Decor Fun Haus Bright Colours Maison Balzac, 4 Hand Cocktail Napkins, Fun House Decor Trend 2026 Noosa 3 Seater Sofa One World, Fun Haus Decor, Personality Interior Trends 2026 Mustard Made The Mixer Fun Haus Decor Trend 2026 Personaity Decorating Corelle Logan Dinnerware Set, Amazon Fun Haus Decor Trend 2026 Interior Personality Mystic Outlands Trend 2026 Earthy colours, organic forms interior trends Mellow Armchair – Eden Brick Earth Tones Mystic Outlands Interior Trend 2026 Theatre Bone Cotton Feel Rug Mystic Outlands Interior Trend 2026 Earth Tones, Organic Shapes Idle Coffee Table Desert Rose Marble RJ Living Mystic Outlands Interior Trend 2026 Peal V1 Sofa Trit House Mystic Outlands Interior Trend 2026 2026 Interior Home Trends Neo Deco Art Deco Decor is back Enki Side Table Brenda Table Lamp, Myer Aligned New Jute Rug, Double Draper Swivel Armchair RJ Living KENDALL’S PICK (32) De La Espada Carlo Side Table 409 Hepburn Velvet Storage Ottoman Lola Side Table 2026 Interior trends homebeautiful-1283783
14 easy cocktail recipes to impress everyone this New Year’s https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/entertaining/easy-cocktail-recipes/ Thu, 18 Dec 2025 06:16:51 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1061358 These delicious cocktail recipes are guaranteed to turn up the heat.

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With the New Year almost upon us, it’s time to plan ahead and stock up on party pleasers in your home bar. Not that we need a special occasion to bring out the fancy glasses and top up the bar cart! Whatever your plans, we’ve pulled together a list of incredibly delicious cocktail recipes that will up your mixology game in no time and give you a great excuse to invest in new stemware.

As friends crowd around your kitchen island to raise a colourful glass before heading out for the night, to celebrate another trip around the sun, or stay in to cosy up on your outdoor sofa, you’ll wonder why you ever spent $30 on a cocktail in the city. The best part? You don’t need to be a bartender to whip up these cocktails and have a recipe for every occasion.

Champagne cocktail at Chiswick restaurant
Photography: Con Poulos / Styling: Lucy Gough

01

A champagne cocktail recipe

A classy champagne cocktail, complete with a little bit of bitters and a whole lot of bubbles

If you’re looking for something a little special, then this classy champagne cocktail recipe will certainly elevate your evening.

Cloudy apple and cucumber frozen margarita

02

Frozen margarita recipe

The perfect cocktail for warm summer nights

This frozen margarita recipe is a twist on the classic margarita recipe and is a real party starter for those who want to spice up their night ahead of dining on Mexican fare – either at home or at the local restaurant.

03

Rosé sorbet mimosa

This ‘frosé’ is the perfect pick-me-up

This delicious sorbet recipe is perfect for any afternoon soiree or as the ideal adult-only treat. The best part is that you can prepare your sorbet in the lead-up to your party and serve a scoop as a bright and refreshing delight when ready.

;lychee ginger cocktail recipe
(Photo: Getty)

04

Lychee ginger rose cocktail

Get creative with gin and spicy ginger beer

Packed with nutrients, the star of this refreshing drink is the exotic sweetness of lychees combined with the spicy kick of ginger beer, creating a delightful blend of flavours.

05

The Orchard’s kiss cocktail

A romantic cocktail with a touch of red roses

Inspired by an ancient symbol of love that relates back to the Greek God Dionysus who offered apples to win the Goddess Aphrodite’s love, this romantic cocktail is perfect for a tête-à-tête.

04

Two-Fold Tango Whisky cocktail

The perfect tipple for whiskey lovers

Using Two-Fold Whisky steeped in spicy flavours drawn from red wine barrel aging, and the sweet Oloroso sherry, this whisky cocktail will heat up your night.

Hugo spritz and negroni sbagliato cocktails.
(Photography: Con Poulos / Styling: Kerrie-Ann Jones)

05

Negroni sbagliato

Add a touch of flair with the lightly effervescent negroni sbagliato

The negroni sbagliato may have been social media’s cocktail of choice a few years ago, but the Prosecco-based drink is an Italian classic, swapping gin for sparkling wine, as with a negroni.

Melbourne Cup lunch | Home Beautiful Magazine Australia
(Photo: The Grounds)

07

Mello’ Poppins cocktail

A delicious cocktail perfect for summer

A glass full of freshly squeezed watermelon juice combined with vodka and Aperol creates this delightfully refreshing cocktail by The Grounds.

Lillet, gin and guava Autumn rose cocktail
(Photography: Cath Muscat)

08

Lillet, gin and guava autumn rosé

A lively gin cocktail with tones of autumn leaves

This lovely little number is simple to prepare and ideal as a pre-dinner cocktail. While the warm colour evokes the russet tones of autumn and winter, it can be enjoyed all year round.

Bathers' Pavilion Strawberry Serenade and Botanist Green house gin cocktail recipes
(Photography: John Paul Urizar / Styling: Michele Cranston)

09

Strawberry Serenade cocktail

A perfect celebration cocktail for lunch by the sea

Chefs at Sydney’s Bathers’ Pavilion, Cameron Johnston & Shruti Punja, share their recipe for the Strawberry Serenade – a brilliant, simple, gin-based cocktail.

10

Frozen cherry cocktail

A festive treat enjoyed year-round

This delicious slushy cocktail can be served as an after-dinner dessert cocktail with cherries and blueberries bursting with flavour.

(Photo: Magnum + Queens)

11

Sgroppino sorbet cocktail

Spoiler: contains Prosecco!

We love finding new ways to drink sparkling wine, and this beauty puts a fabulous twist on an age-old refresher that once graced aristocratic Venetian tables. 

classic Negroni cocktail recipe
(Photo: Getty)

12

Classic Negroni cocktail

Perfect for the entry-level cocktail

Wondering what cocktail to serve on your first date? The Negroni is one of the easiest cocktails to make and is the perfect crowd-pleaser. You may never move on from this!

champagne gin cocktail recipe
(Photography: Chris Warnes)

13

French 75 cocktail

Simple, elegant and celebratory

This is a classic cocktail, and for good reason! The simple blend of gin, champagne and lemon creates a delicate but sweet taste that’ll have your guests asking for seconds.

Pimm's peach cocktail in a tall glass.
(Photography: Chris Warnes)

14

Pimm’s peach cocktail

An unexpected peachy punch

Mix-up your weeknight with a sweet cocktail featuring decadent peaches baked in Pimm’s syrup. A little fruity and a little tangy, this fresh cocktail is best served with cream to balance the flavour.

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1061358 Chiswick-restaurant-champagne-cocktail Photography: Con Poulos / Styling: Lucy Gough margarita lychee ginger cocktail recipe Whisky cocktail recipe (2) hugo-spritz-negroni-1 Melbourne Cup lunch | Home Beautiful Magazine Australia Mello' Poppins cocktail Lillet, gin and guava Autumn rose cocktail Bathers' Pavilion Strawberry Serenade and Botanist Green house gin cocktail recipes classic-negroni-recipe french-75-cocktail-recipe-2.jpg pimms-peaches-cocktail-recipe-2 as seen in HB_4 homebeautiful-1061358
The Block favourite Mat reveals surprising new chapter after the show https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/renovation-ideas/the-block-2025-contestant-mat-bought-church/ Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:59:44 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283943 His next venture is holier than the homes in Daylesford.

The post The Block favourite Mat reveals surprising new chapter after the show appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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In very exciting news for The Block contestant Mat Johnson, he’s bought a church. The sale went through on December 5, 2025, for a modest $250,000 in the heritage-rich township of Brinkworth, South Australia.

Is this new purchase simply a necessity for confessing all the behind-the-scenes gossip that went down during the 2025 season, or is it one to renovate? Looks like the latter – and we’re more than ready to watch the restoration unfold.

Mat The Block contestant bought a church
The church Mat bought, ready for renovating. (Image: Instagram via @mat_johnson / @mjs_church)

“Lifelong dream and new journey loading,” he wrote on Instagram, sharing the news of his property purchase and inviting followers along for the renovation ride of MJ’s Church via a new social media account dedicated to documenting the makeover process.

The church stands on around 1010 square metres of land. (Image: Domain)

Within days of being shared by Mat, MJ’s Church had already amassed thousands of followers, all eager to see him apply his talents to this next project now that his season in Daylesford has wrapped. “Join me on a fabulous journey from The Block to transforming a country church into a vibrant home! Expect laughs, drama, & fabulous vibes!” the account reads.

The former Anglican church, known as St Mary Magdalene’s, is a heritage property built in 1910 and was listed as “a piece of South Australian history”. It boasts period craftsmanship and architectural details crying out to be preserved – from leadlight glass windows to double timber doors – with Mat seemingly the perfect person for the job, given the eye for design he showcased on the series.

The Block contestant Mat bought church glass windows
The heritage foundation and blank canvas make this the perfect renovation project. (Image: Domain)

As one half of Adelaide-based best-mate duo Mat and Robby, the pair became fan favourites throughout the 21st season thanks to their good humour and memorable antics. While they were tipped to be in the running to win – bolstered by bold moves including a winning kitchen and a wine cellar – it wasn’t meant to be.

Robby and Mat at The Block 2025 auction
Robby and Mat on The Block 2025 auction day. (Image: The Block/Channel 9/9 Now)

They didn’t fare as badly as the two couples who left empty-handed, but the boys did walk away with relatively modest winnings of $109,999 (split between them) when Danny Wallis bought House 5 for $3,099,999, particularly when compared to the 2024 contestants who all made lucrative sales thanks to billionaire Adrian Portelli purchasing all five properties.

The Block Auctions Robby and Mat 2025
The duo went through a range of emotions during the auction of House 5. (Image: The Block/Channel 9/9 Now)

As Adrian famously declared, he wasn’t returning in 2025, having joined forces with rival network Channel 7 and their soon-to-launch revamped version of My Reno Rules in 2026. The move left teams Han and Can, and Emma and Ben, still waiting for their homes to sell. New parents Emma and Ben have since sold their own home, with The Block outcome falling short of their hopes.

There’s still potential for all contestants to make the most of their moment in the spotlight – and it seems Mat is firmly continuing the renovation ride, with enormous potential in this latest purchase for a beautiful transformation and a big sale, if all goes to plan.

The post The Block favourite Mat reveals surprising new chapter after the show appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1283943 Mat The Block contestant bought a church 2 The Block contestant Mat bought church The Block contestant Mat bought church glass windows BLOCK_2025_AUCTION_005_w1500 The Block Auctions Robby and Mat 2025 homebeautiful-1283943