Decorate | Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/ Homes, Bathroom, Kitchen & Outdoor Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:58:27 +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 Decorate | Home Beautiful https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/ 32 32 221866170 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.

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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
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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1057230 Bed Threads Olive Stripe Duvet Cover Set Boxing Day Sales Australia 2025 Nimes Clay Quilt Cover Set I Love Linen French Flax Linen Sheet Set in Hazelnut Stripe Boxing Day Sales 2025 Romi Check Quilt Cover Set Best Boxing Day Sales Bedding Atlas Stripe European Pillowcase Best Boxing Day Sales 2025 Les Mains Dinner Plates Beige Best Boxing Day Sales 2025 A Visual Feast Ingredients That Make a Home Jono Fleming Boxing Day Sales 2025 Les Fruits Olive Placemats Best boxing day sales 2025 Snug Swivel Chair Lounge Lovers Boxing Day Sales Australia 2025 Cube Side Table Trit House Boxing Day Furniture sales 2025 Jean Sofa MCM House Boxing Day Furniture Sales 2025 Idle Coffee Table Desert Rose Marble RJ Living Mystic Outlands Interior Trend 2026 Shark Cordless Vacuum with Self Cleaning Brushroll (2) Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer – Butter KSM195 Ninja Blast Max Cordless Portable Blender Tefal Dolci Rise Ice Cream Maker with Bonus Nesquik Tins Moody Earth Tones Interior Design Trends 2026 Colour Palette the latest interior design, gardening and cook books arranged on brown velvet fabric with pine cones and Christmas baubles Home Beautiful's Christmas gift guide hero image. The text says 'All I want for Christmas' and is surrounded by products that are largely red, stainless steel or neutral in tone. These include pans, stand mixers, cookware, candles, tableware, and lamps. homebeautiful-1057230
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

The post Beyond white: The exterior paint colours that are trending in 2026 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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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
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.

The post The Paris Edit: Expect these bold interior trends to take over in 2026 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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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
Festive styling ideas for your ottoman, plus beautiful decor buys https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/festive-styling-ideas-ottoman/ Mon, 15 Dec 2025 07:01:52 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283809 How to decorate your ottoman according to your personal style and mood.

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Though we may not realise it, the humble ottoman — like the kitchen island bench — is where many of us end up spending Christmas Eve and Christmas morning.

Perched on a plush sofa or cross-legged on a cosy rug, the ottoman is where we often gather, to watch ‘Love Actually’ for the zillionth time, wrap presents (and unwrap them) and entertain family and friends during the festive season.

So, it makes sense to give this space as much decorative attention as you would the finest of tablescapes. Here, we’ve captured different ways to style your ottoman according to the mood and moment.

Log into Pinterest… because you’re about to be inspired.

Festive ottoman styled and decorated with a floral rug, cheese, nuts, a lamp, champagne and gifts.
With champagne, a cheese board and a richly patterned rug, this ottoman is styled for a festive late-night soiree. (Photography: Brigid Arnott | Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

How to style a festive ottoman

Wondering how to style your ottoman? The first step is to identify and complement both your living room decor and your festive theme.

Are you a fan of classic Hamptons sophistication? Is a traditional, wintry tartan aesthetic your jam? Perhaps contemporary, nature-inspired Australian style floats your boat.

Make sure you include practicalities, but don’t forget some festive flourishes at the end. The key to successfully styling an ottoman is all in the layering.

Festive ottoman styled and decorated in an Australian nature-inspired theme with champagne, a cheese board and a wreath.
This nature-inspired ottoman-scape uses texture, foliage and a neutral palette to create a breezy Aussie-Christmas mood. (Photography: Brigid Arnott | Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Begin with a tactile rug that either blends with the tones in the ottoman or provides a contrast.

It’s important to choose the right ottoman for the space, whether that is a small round one for a compact corner or one in a bold hue for an area that needs a pop of colour.

Festive ottoman styled and decorated in blue and burgundy with gifts, flowers and giftwrapping.
Thanks to a lush deep burgundy rug and a contrasting blue ottoman and giftwrap, this scene imbues relaxed luxury. (Photography: Brigid Arnott | Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Place a tray off centre on the ottoman to act as a base for your items — a mirrored or timber tray works well. It’s best to put any vase with flowers on your tray as this provides a stable, flat surface.

You can also use bowls, baskets, platters, serving boards and plates to display smaller items.

Festive ottoman decorated with gifts, homewares, giftwrapping, tartan, a lamp and red accents.
Tartan in various prints, classic games and red accents evokes both nostalgia and a cosy Northern Hemisphere Christmas. (Photography: Brigid Arnott | Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Include coffee table books with covers that go with your theme. Cordless lamps are useful as you don’t need a powerpoint nearby.

Add a bowl full of baubles, your favourite festive treats and maybe a gift or two along with the always essential glass of bubbles.

A festive ottoman decorated and styled in a classic, beige and neutral theme with champagne, a cheese platter and bonbons.
Tactile and tasteful, this ottoman is an inviting spot to nibble on Christmas goodies and catch up with dear friends. (Photography: Brigid Arnott | Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Shop for festive styling items

Valencia Tray, $129 $103.20, Freedom

Aesop Bronze Incense Holder, $210, Myer

Aurora Aluminium Table Lamp, $89.00 $79.99, Temple & Webster

Christmas Plaid Pillow Covers, $28.96, Amazon 

Frayed Linen Napkins | Set of 2, $55, Corey Ashford

Villeroy & Boch Champagne Dessert Bowl | Set of 2, $54.95

Nolan Cheese Knife Set, Country Road, $49.95

Rogue Dancing Orchids & Rachel Vase, $164.99, David Jones

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1283809 festive-ottoman-styling-decorating-floral-rug-cheese-nutes-lamp-champagne-gifts festive-ottoman-styling-decorating-australian-nature-inspired-champagne-cheese-board-wreath festive-ottoman-styling-decorating-blue-burgundy-gifts-flowers-wrapping festive-decorating-ottoman-gifts-homewares-tartan festive-ottoman-decorating-styling-beige-neutral-classic-champagne-cheese-platter freedom-tray INCENSE-HOLDER-AESOP CORDLESS-TABLE-LAMP TARTAN-CUSHIONS green-linen-napkin champagne-dessert-bowl gold-cheese-knife-set artificial-flowers-vase homebeautiful-1283809
Eight bunk beds that both you and your child will love https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/best-bunk-beds-australia/ Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:35:37 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1255697 Prepare to become the favourite parent.

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It’s hard to imagine another type of bed that could ever compete with a child’s longing for a bunk bed.

Whether it’s the exciting elevation of the top bunk or the cosier, den-like lower bunk that holds the allure, bunk beds seem to combine the dream of a treehouse and a cubby into one. And for parents short on space, the novelty of the bunk bed is often enough to convince even the most stubborn of siblings to share a room while also offering an effortless space-saving solution for sleepovers.

Choosing the right bunk bed is another task altogether. Whether you’re after a sweet Scandinavian-inspired wooden bunk to decorate with lights and bunting, or simply something to squeeze as much sleeping space as possible into your kid’s bedroom, when it comes to bunk beds, there are options for almost every age, interior style and need.

The best bunk beds in Australia

  1. Best bunk bed for vintage-inspired bedrooms: Sonata Bunk Bed, Mocka
  2. Best bunk bed for sleek design lovers: Castle Metal Bunk Bed, Living Styles
  3. Best bunk bed for plenty of extra space: Springfield Bunk Bed, Freedom
  4. Best bunk bed for built in storage: Oslo Bunk Bed, Temple & Webster

The top bunk beds to buy in 2025

Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed

01

Sonata Bunk Bed

from $499.99, Mocka

Best for: vintage-inspired bedrooms, older children

With their powder-coated steel frame and vintage-inspired design, these sweet bunk beds will bring a whimsical vibe into your child’s bedroom.

Sizes: 160cm x 100cm x 198cm

Colours: White/Black

Materials: Steel

Key features:

  • Top bunk recommended for ages 9 and over
  • Powder-coated finish
  • Fits 2 x standard-size single mattresses
Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed Castle Commercial Grade Bunk Bed

02

Castle Commercial Grade Metal Bunk Bed

from $519 $469, Living Styles

Best for: sleek aesthetics, dark accents

For a bunk that parents and their little ones will both adore, opt for the Castle Commercial Grade Metal Bunk Bed from Living Styles. The piece is covered by a one-year warranty and crafted from strong, powder-coated metal, so you can rest assured that it’s just as safe as it is aesthetically pleasing.

Our favourite part? How versatile this sleek style is; perfect for evolving interiors and growing kids. It’s a bedroom staple that will grow with your family, appealing to the quintessential childhood desire for a bunk bed without ever feeling childish.

Sizes: 202.5cm W x 101.5cm D x 170cm H

Colours: Black (pictured), White

Materials: Powder-coated metal

Key features:

  • Commercial-grade quality
  • 1-Year manufacturer’s warranty
  • Fits two single mattresses

Available at:

Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed Freedom Bunk Bed

03

Springfield Bunk Bed Single Over Double

from $1,449, Freedom

Best for: guest rooms, extra sleeping space, teens

When it comes to designing a kid’s bedroom, you’ll never have too much storage. That’s why we adore the Springfield Bunk Bed‘s built-in shelves and the trundle bed space, which can double as a generous drawer. Practical, stylish, and ready to be dressed up with your favourite linens, it’s a perfect option for those after an investment piece.

What’s more, with a double bed on the lower bunk, a single bed on the top bunk, and an additional double trundle bed, this dreamy bunk option offers plenty of sleeping space for sleepovers or visiting families. Even those who aren’t shopping for little ones will get plenty of use from the Springfield Bunk Bed.

Sizes: 154.5 cm x 201 cm x 169.7 cm

Colours: White

Materials: Rubber wood

Key features:

  • Classic Hamptons aesthetic
  • Includes a pull-out trundle bed
  • Fits one single mattress and two double mattresses
Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed Oslo Convertible Bunk Bed Temple & Webster

04

Oslo Convertible Single Bunk Bed with Wardrobe

from $1,099, Temple & Webster

Best for: an all-in-one, convertible design for all ages

Tracking down all the practical furniture pieces necessary to furnish a kid’s room isn’t just time-consuming; it’s expensive, too. However, with Temple & Webster’s Oslo Convertible Bunk Bed, you can cut down on time spent searching and money spent. Equipped with space for two single beds, one cupboard, and a clever convertible design, this bunk bed really does tick every box.

Our favourite part? The bunk’s height-adjustable shelf and hidden wardrobe storage keep your little one’s room neat and upgrades their storage. The fact that it’s beautifully designed is simply an added bonus.

Sizes: 160 cm x 136 cm x 255.1 cm

Colours: White (pictured), Light Timber

Materials: Manufactured timber

Key features:

  • L-shaped corner bunk bed with two potential configurations
  • Built-in wardrobe and shelf included
  • Fits two single beds
the best bunk beds Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed

05

Light Timber Grace Low Line Single Bunk Bed

$749, Temple & Webster

Best for: fans of wooden accents, younger children

If creating this article has taught us anything, it’s that Temple & Webster know how to do bunk beds right. With natural wooden elements and a bottom bed that sits close to the ground, the Grace Bunk Bed is not only safe for younger children, but also helpful for the adults making the bed.

For those wanting to keep their little ones climbing too high, this option offers extra peace of mind. And when dressed up in earthy linens, it promises a natural look that parents and children will both adore.

Sizes: 112.6cm x 114.5cm

Colours: Timber/White

Materials: Timber-look

Key features:

  • Large, easy-to-climb steps and low-line bunks
  • Furntech-AFRDI certified
  • Fits two single beds
Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed

06

Teddy Bunk Bed

$999.99, Mocka

Best for: contemporary design, siblings

Featuring soft teddy-like fabrication and contemporary wooden accents, Mocka’s Teddy Bunk Bed will fit effortlessly into any children’s bedroom or, more broadly, into any thoughtfully curated home. Besides aesthetics, the fabric sides serve an additional (but equally important) purpose: protecting kids from bumping their heads.

Perfect for siblings, the low-line bottom bunk is safe for younger ones, while the higher top bunk is guaranteed to please the older child. You’ll also find handles at the top of the ladder for an extra layer of safety; great additions for nervous parents or those needing a little extra peace of mind.

Sizes: 104cm x 205.5cm x 172.5cm

Colours: Beige (pictured)

Materials: Boucle, wood

Key features:

  • Soft beige teddy fabric upholstery
  • Solid rubberwood ball feet
  • Curved panels for cosy comfort
  • Fits two single beds
Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed

07

Dante 2-in-1 Solid Pine Timber Bunk Bed

$359 (usually $599), Luxo Living

Best for: neutral, versatility

Made of natural wood, the Dante 2-in-1 Bunk Bed from Luxo Living don’t merely look good; it’s extremely durable and strong as too. Our favourite part? With the ability to come apart when your children outgrow the bunks or simply want a change, they’ll adjust to suit your little one, even when they’re not so little.

Alongside the convertible design and classic style, this piece also offers a generous 150kg weight capacity on each bunk, which means parents could even read bedtime stories to their little ones on the top level (without worrying about a collapse). And when styled in gorgeous linens, this bunk bed is just as stylish as it is practical.

Sizes: 203 x 98.5 x 156cm

Colours: Natural (pictured)

Materials: 100% Solid pine wood

Key features:

  • 150kg bed weight capacity on each bunk
  • Ladder included
  • Convertible design
  • Fits two single beds
Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children's Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed Temple & Webster

08

Oakley Single Over Double Bunk Bed

$599, Temple & Webster

Best for: classic style, space saving

These bunks have a stylish panelled wood look that’s both cosy and classic. With a double bed on the bottom and single on the top, the bed provides plenty of space for siblings or children’s friends staying over.

Sizes: 159cm H x 148cm W x 198cm D

Colours: White

Materials: Pine wood & MDF frame

Key features:

  • Pannelled look
  • Solid wood
  • Easy clean

What you need to know before buying a bunk bed

Before taking the plunge and adding a dreamy bunk bed to your little one’s room, there are a few things you’ll want to know, and we’re about to cover all of them.

Are bunk beds safe for kids?

Bunk beds are a safe sleeping option for kids as long as they are designed and used safely. Luckily, all bunk beds sold in Australia have to comply with the national safety standards, which require the top bunk to have guardrails and that the gaps between guardrails are 3.5 inches or less.

It’s also worth noting that the Red Nose Foundation recommends that children shouldn’t use the top bunk before the age of 9, and for extra safety, parents should place bunk beds in the corner of the room to make the most of the support from the walls on either side. Placing a nightlight near the ladder and educating your children about bunk bed safety (and not letting them play on the top bunk of the bed) are also important steps.

How much weight can a bunk bed hold?

Most bunk beds will support 80kg on the top bunk and at least 160kg on the lower. However, the weight that a bunk bed can hold really depends on the individual bed’s design and the construction materials used to make it. The best way to check is to refer to your bunk bed’s manual.

What are the best brands to buy a bunk bed from?

Our favourite furniture retailers for bunk bed purchases are Living Styles, Mocka, Temple & Webster, Luxo Living, and Freedom.


Related article:

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1255697 Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children’s Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed Castle Commercial Grade Metal Bunk Bed, Single, Black Freedom Bunk Bed Best Bunk Beds Oslo Convertible Single Bunk Bed with Wardrobe Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children’s Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed Mocka Teddy Bunk Bed in Beige Best Bunk Beds to Buy in Australia for Children’s Rooms Mocka Bunk Bed Wooden Bunk Bed Oakley Single Over Double Bunk Bed Temple & Webster homebeautiful-1255697
8 dated decorating trends that are on the way out in 2026 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/dated-decorating-trends-on-the-way-out/ Mon, 08 Dec 2025 09:44:44 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/7-dated-decorating-trends-on-the-way-out-in-2023 Elevate your interiors with our take on what’s hot and not for 2026 and beyond.

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Interior design trends move fast these days. As per fashion, what’s sizzling one minute is dry and overcooked the next (barrel jeans are about to evaporate, by the way).

‘Griege’ came and went, glam furniture is no longer giving and the Roly Poly chair was a blip. So, what styles will stay the course in 2026? What décor trends will look passé?  

“Trends have short lifespans, according to the industry,” said interior designer Jono Fleming on Instagram recently, specifically referring to bouclé furniture, of which he still owns. (More on that later.)

“But that doesn’t mean you should feel bad if someone tells you, ‘It’s done’. If you still love it, keep it. If you don’t love it, but you need to live with it, change what’s around it.”

Scroll our deep-dive into dated decorating trends on the way out, but remember, your home is a reflection of your taste and style. You do you — no matter what is (or isn’t) trending. 

1. Neutral is over… or is it?

In 2025, ‘Mocha Mousse’ was named Pantone’s Colour of The Year, which filtered down to interiors. Rich browns, terracotta, cherry reds and burgundy reigned, with greens and blues adding contrast. The era of all-cream, neutral, modern-Mediterranean style seemed to be coming to an end.

We anticipate this trend towards rich, grounding colours to continue — especially given the 2026 Dulux Colour Forecast, which features paint colours such as ‘Coffee Dust’, ‘Misty Grape’, ‘Baked Clay’ and ‘Deep Aqua’.

However, Pantone threw a Herculean spanner in the works by declaring ‘Cloud Dancer’ its 2026 Colour of The Year. The “billowy white imbued with serenity” broke the internet due to its stark, err, absence of colour… We can’t help but wonder if this heralds a return to white-on-white interior spaces — or just a reminder that warm white complements bold colour beautifully.

“Cloud Dancer is a bit of a surprise as we typically see bolder shades from Pantone’s Colour of the Year,” says Dulux colour and design manager, Lauren Treloar.

Colour is king, according to Dulux’s 2026 Colour Forecast, which features Misty Grape — as seen on the walls of this bedroom. (Photography: Lisa Cohen | Styling: Bree Banfield)

Do this instead: If ‘light and bright’ is your M.O. and you actually love the idea of Cloud Dancer, try the Dulux equivalent: Dulux White Exchange Quarter. “However a comparative shade that’s likely to resonate more strongly with Australian consumers is Dulux Natural White,” explains Lauren.

Ultimately, steer clear of cool whites and channel nature: think of the keywords ‘mushroom’, ‘pebble’ or ‘bone’. It’ll make your home feel cosier and more welcoming — and less like a dentist’s waiting room.

You can also opt for neutral pastels, including soft greens and pinks. “These whimsical tones exude an uplifting and soothing atmosphere throughout the home,” adds Lauren.

Dulux Lilium Two (on walls) and Dulux Natural White (on stairs) bring serenity to this interior. (Photography: Lisa Cohen | Styling: Bree Banfield)

2. Engineered stone is history

For as long as we can remember, economical and stylish engineered stone benchtops ruled Australian renovations. However, since mid-2024, the popular material has been banned, to help protect workers from developing the potentially deadly disease, silicosis.

Do this instead: So, engineered stone is definitely ‘out’. But there are myriad alternatives for your kitchen and bathroom benchtops — such as natural marble, timber, stainless steel, Corian and laminate.

“For those in search of a cost-effective, silica-free material that doesn’t compromise on design or a rich palette of colours and textures, Laminex is a compelling choice,” says Sacha Leagh-Murray, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Laminex.

Versatile laminate is durable, non-porous, hygienic and seamless, available in loads of colours. Some lines can even be moulded into on-trend curves.

Interior designer Emma Blomfield says her firm has been specifying more porcelain, natural stone and even zinc benchtops in recent months.

“The options and the technology behind porcelain have continued to improve, so clients who’re more budget-conscious can have the look of a natural stone without the price tag,” she explains.

Close-up detail of American walnut kitchen with quartzite stone splashback and benchtop. A ceramic vessel sits on the benchtop.
A safe alternative to engineered stone, quartzite is having a moment — as seen in interior designer Carlie Fraser’s Melbourne kitchen. (Photography: Marie-Luise Skibbe)

3. Bouclé is officially passé

Bouclé has become the Sol de Janeiro of the interior decorating world: it’s been splashed everywhere, and everyone is over it. The loopy, woolly fabric has been used on everything from furniture to cushions, throws and even dog collars.

“While bouclé has proven to be enduring, it’s definitely being used less and less,” says Greenhouse Interiors founder and Dulux ambassador, Julia Green.

Do this instead: If you’ve invested in a bouclé sofa or occasional chair, such as the iconic Gubi Pacha lounge chair, don’t fret.

Interior designer Jono Fleming knows this dilemma all too well, saying on Instagram: “What if you do already own (bouclé)? You work with it. The trick is mixing textures; don’t go all-in with bouclé — that’s when it feels dated.”

He suggests balancing out a bouclé sofa, for example, with a linen throw, a velvet cushion, a leather armchair or a corduroy ottoman.

Alternatively, your old bouclé pieces might also find a home in your teen or tween’s bedroom, as per Mocka’s Youth Collection. The texture feels simultaneously ‘grown up’ and playful, making it perfect for kids who are transitioning to adulthood.

A white boucle armchair with a blue cushion beside open windows.
Bring your bouclé furniture into 2026 with simple additions such as a velvet cushion, as seen in this Federation bungalow in Brisbane. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Kylie Jackes)

4. Chrome is the new brass accent

You can’t swing a throw rug without hitting a side table or objet d’art in rustic brass, copper or bronze, but chrome is having a renaissance.

Made popular during the 1950s and 60s, the sleek and silvery metal was used in dining tables and chairs, armchairs (such as the Wassily chair), coffee tables and lamps.

Of course, timeless chrome harks back to the Art Deco era, as well, when it was the (non-) gold standard in tapware and hardware.

Do this instead: There’s no need to rip out all your expensive brassy hardware or accents or ditch furniture pieces in favour of high-shine silver finishes just yet.

“Chrome is certainly making a comeback, but you can mix your metals tastefully,” says Julia. As chrome can feel a little chilly, aged brass can help maintain a sense of character.

To ease yourself (back) into this décor trend, try incorporating retro furniture with chrome legs or replacing kitchen handles with polished nickel knobs.

Chrome accents add a futuristic feel to this living room, featured in Dulux’s 2026 Colour Forecast. (Photography: Lisa Cohen | Stying: Bree Banfield)

5. Forget fast-fashion homewares

With the environment top of mind, decorators are starting to eschew fast fashion when it comes to interiors.

Regularly buying and replacing (and throwing out) on-trend inexpensive décor isn’t exactly great for the planet. A survey of more than 7,000 people found that 97% of consumers are interested in buying sustainable furnishings, provided the style and cost are about the same as other options.

Thanks to a meteoric rise in living expenses, as consumers we’re becoming more mindful about how we spend our money, as well.

Do this instead: Eclectic maximalism with a focus on vintage is back in vogue. So, hit up Facebook Marketplace, 1stDibs, auction houses such as Lawson’s and charity shops for preloved furniture and decor.

Take a (cabbageware) leaf out of Chyka Keebaugh’s book. The penthouse home of The Real Housewives of Melbourne alum and hospitality doyen is a treasure trove of vintage pieces she and her husband, Bruce, have collected over many years of travel.

“I love pattern, colour and texture,” Chyka told Home Beautiful. “And I must go to a flea market wherever I am in the world.”

Consider investing in high-quality and less faddish pieces that will last forever, too. It might cost more upfront, but you’ll spend less over time.

Elegant interior with a round table, chairs, colorful chandelier, peacock decor, and vibrant flowers by large windows.
Chyka Keebaugh’s penthouse is a veritable jewel box filled with antiques and curiosities. (Photography: Martina Gemmola | Styling: Belle Hemming)

6. Open-plan living is overrated

Since open-plan living revolutionised homes in the 1960s and 70s, Australian families have been living in close quarters and loving every minute of it. Or have we?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the combined kitchen/living/dining space fell slightly out of favour, as people of different ages and needs struggled to work, play and study at home together.

We’re now seeing interior designers create separate zones for different hobbies in the home, such as media rooms, sewing and craft spaces, libraries and wellness rooms — while retaining spaces for families to come together.

Do this instead: Consider carving out a formal living room or library, if you have sufficient rooms. Rearrange your furniture to foster fireside chats.

“Think, sofas that face each other rather, ottomans that extra guests can perch on, handy side tables for snacks and drinks, as well as fireplaces to gather around,” offers Michelle Davis, creative director at M+Co Living.

Like the idea of zones, but worried your home could be too segmented or ‘boxy’? Curves can help, suggests interior designer Chiara Portesi. Curved walls and island benches add softness while delineating spaces (and yes, they can act as load-bearing walls).

You can also build in barriers without popping up walls, via furniture, Shoji screens (paper-based Japanese room dividers), bookshelves — safely fixed to the floor — or glass doors.

red brick canberra cottage art deco renovation formal living room
Now that it’s comfortable and colourful, the owners of this formal living room in Canberra use it all the time. (Photography: Anne Stroud | Styling: Jane Goodall)

7. Have waterfall kitchen islands been saturated?

Once peak luxury and striking in its form, the waterfall kitchen island bench will potentially be, well, benched.

With a waterfall island, the benchtop material — usually stone — continues down one or both sides of the bench, as per a waterfall. The longer side of the island, on the living/dining side, is typically recessed to accommodate bar stools and legs.

Ergo, the design downside of a waterfall island is that anyone sitting at the waterfall-end of the bench can’t sit comfortably — unless they’re a practised yogi who can twist into pretzel-like positions. And waterfall islands simply don’t feel very novel anymore.

Do this instead: Renovating your kitchen? Consider installing a kitchen island bench with decorative, table-like legs that add visual intrigue and allow people to stretch out when they’re seated. Which will be trending in 2026.

If you’re still wedded to the waterfall concept, own it. Continuing your benchtop material — such as marble — onto the floor in an organic, ‘pooling’ fashion is elegant and elevated, as per the kitchen in Sally Caroline’s ‘Panorama House’ project.

Pink kitchen with green marble waterfall kitchen island bench
The striking waterfall kitchen island (Ice Green marble from Signorino) in a Melbourne weatherboard. (Photography: Armelle Habib / Styling: Julia Green)

8. Sub maximalism with ‘midimalism’

Minimalism had a moment, with documentaries and books telling us to live with fewer possessions, and designers opting for clean lines and uncluttered surfaces, which sometimes looked, well, stark and cold.

Even Marie Kondo couldn’t keep up with her tidying, admitting recently that she’s more realistic about mess since having her third child.

On the other end of the spectrum, maximalism espouses having stuff, stuff and more stuff — the more opulent and colourful, the better. Animal prints have been trending (yes, in homes). But layers of accoutrement aren’t always easy to live with. Imagine the dusting!

Do this instead: There’s a Swedish word, lagom, which roughly translates to, ‘Not too much and not too little’. Meanwhile, the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi is about accepting and appreciating the imperfect nature of everything. 

Thanks to lagom and wabi-sabi, minimalism (pared-back, perfect and clutter-free) and maximalism (wild colour, pattern and décor) are two extremes we might see less of in the future.

So, we’re predicting a move away from severe styling and towards interiors that look like, well, a home in 2026.

Playful yet pared-back, this living room isn’t cluttered — with just the right amount of decor to feel homely and inspiring. (Photography: Lisa Cohen / Styling: Bree Leech)

The post 8 dated decorating trends that are on the way out in 2026 appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1029298 2026-interior-decorating-trends-Dulux-Misty-Grape 2026-interior-decorating-trends-Dulux-whites American-walnut-kitchen-quartzite-stone-splashback-benchtop-detail brisbane-federation-bungalow-boucle-armchair 2026-interior-decorating-trends-Dulux-teal-mustard-brown-red-colours-chrome-accents Chyka-keebaugh-home-penthouse-apartment-rhom-real-housewives-dining red brick canberra cottage art deco renovation formal living room Pink kitchen with green marble waterfall kitchen island bench What kitchen island dreams are made of. Atop the Ice Green marble waterfall island benchtop is a large green vessel from West Elm. Dulux Muse Journey The Dulux Surf Green walls set a spirited mood in this Muse inspired space, heightened by Cult Design’s unique chairs and cobalt blue sofa. homebeautiful-1029298
Why is the Pantone Colour of the Year always so disappointing? https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/pantone-colour-of-the-year-2026-cloud-dancer/ Fri, 05 Dec 2025 02:31:14 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283566 None more so than in 2026.

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Colour has been cancelled. Pantone is click-baiting us. The Colour of the Year is… an absence of colour?

These were just some of the entirely reasonable reactions when Pantone announced its Colour of the Year for 2026 which is – wait for it – white. Yes, Cloud Dancer is officially the ‘hot hue’ of the year and honestly… what the fluff?

White facade with two storeys and terracotta tile roof
White is wonderful on this timeless Brisbane home, but the colour of the year? Surely not. (Photography: Hannah Puechmarin / Interior design: Angie Rogers)

It’s not as if Pantone’s pick is ever universally adored. Much like New Year’s Eve itself, the build-up is so hyped that the reveal each December is almost destined to divide the crowd. Still, we’ve had some hits. This year’s Mocha Mousse at least offered some depth, and Peach Fuzz (2024) was silly but strangely irresistible. But white, in this cultural moment? It raised more than a few eyebrows.

Pantone Colour of the Year 2026 Cloud Dancer
(Image: Pantone)

Interior designer Jono Fleming’s Instagram comments were particularly savage, with followers pitching alternative names ranging from “Ivory Tower” to “Privilege Pale”. Too harsh? Maybe. But it does capture the collective eyebrow raise.

Of course, others have taken a more optimistic view – seeing Cloud Dancer as a clean slate, a reset, a literal blank canvas. And when it comes to interiors, white is hardly a trend, it’s a constant. A classic. The quiet overachiever that never really goes out.

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.
This Tudor-revival style home was updated with help from Ivy + Piper and they paired Dulux Vivid White with Dulux Black. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)

Still, it’s interesting timing. As we head into 2026, many designers are doubling down on colour drenching, saturated rooms and earthy, enveloping tones. But even the boldest among them will admit there’s always a place for a good white. Some might even say that white exteriors are superior. It’s the unspoken staple, the baseline, the anchor.

Cottage in Southern Highlands
This grand Hamptons-style cottage in the Southern Highlands makes white look anything but boring. (Photography: Abbie Melle)

So yes – the Pantone Colour of the Year might feel anticlimactic. It may be a bit ‘blah’ for those craving something punchier. But ask any designer for their most-reached-for paint colours and you can bet there’ll be a curated lineup of whites in the mix.

Best white paint colours for 2026

These are the white paint colours interior designers recommend for the year ahead.

For the closest match to Pantone’s ‘Cloud Dancer’: Dulux White Exchange Quarter
A crisp, airy white that captures Pantone’s 2026 pick almost exactly.

For contemporary interiors: Dulux White on White
A crisp, modern white that feels fresh without being clinical.

For heritage homes: Dulux Natural White
Soft and timeless, it balances older architecture with gentle warmth.

For a warm undertone: Resene Ecru White
A welcoming, creamy white that adds subtle cosiness to any room.

For a cool undertone: Dulux Lexicon Half
Bright and energising, perfect for spaces that lean modern or minimal.

For a tried-and-true all-rounder: Dulux Snowy Mountains Half
An interior-designer staple – reliable, adaptable and always flattering.

For warm but still neutral: Dulux White Duck Quarter
Earthy without tipping too beige, ideal for calming, muted schemes.

For a less stark exterior: Dulux Palace Stone
A softened white that plays beautifully with outdoor light.

For an inviting exterior: Dulux Mt Aspiring
Clean, bright and welcoming – your façade’s new best friend.

Picture frames hang above a French style chair.
Home Beautiful editor-in-chief Elle Lovelock embraces warm white tones in her home. (Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Corina Koch)

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1283566 brisbane tuscan style dream home makeover terracotta tiled roof white facade green door stripes flower pots Pantone Colour of the Year 2026 Cloud Dancer Exterior-paint-colours-heritage-home-tudor-revival-style-pool-dulux-vivid-white-black-trim Cottage in Southern Highlands <p><strong>PICTURE PERFECT</strong> This storybook-like house in the NSW Southern Highlands is as charming outside as it is within. It's here, on the verandah and verdant lawn, that owners Melinda, her husband Tom and their children come together to savour the sunshine. "Lazy Sundays with all the family by the pool is my favourite place to be, surrounded by the glorious garden, masses of hydrangeas and a deep blue sky. It's so quiet, secluded and peaceful here," Melinda shares. "And Tom will always be doing something in the garden, no matter the weather."</p> Reno – Elle’s home homebeautiful-1283566
The Paris Edit: How to master the art of moody earth tones https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/the-edit/paris-edit-2026-interior-design-trends/ Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:59:25 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283421 Discover the decadent palette set to take over Australian homes in 2026

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Having only recently settled into my brand-new abode in a brand-new city, it’s only natural that my wishlist of dreamy furniture and homewares now reads like a short novel. After all, there’s nothing quite like a dramatic change of scenery to inspire an impromptu interior overhaul. And as someone who writes about shopping for a living, who am I to resist a little retail therapy?

“As someone who writes about shopping for a living, who am I to resist a little retail therapy?”

Paris Blanchfield

In the past, I’ve made the all-too-common mistake of amassing a collection of furniture and objects that I liked the look of, without really thinking about how they might work together. The result? Hodgepodge interiors with no real harmony, rather than the mindfully curated and intentional spaces I’d been dreaming of. This time, being a little older and just a tad wiser, I know exactly what I want to create and how to do so, and I’m bringing you along for the journey.

Each month, I’ll be sharing with you my many sources of inspiration, including up-and-coming home trends, styling tips, and standout pieces to help you find your own aesthetic and create a more intentional home. Whether you’re on your own mission to make your home feel more like you, or simply love a curated dose of design inspiration, you’re in exactly the right place, and I hope you’re just as excited as I am for what’s ahead.


Forecast: Earth-toned palettes are evolving

It’s no secret that organic palettes have dominated interior trends in 2025. However, as we move into 2026, I’m predicting a vibrant evolution: one that deepens this timeless trend, rather than departing from it. The way I see it, richer shades of brown, green, and ochre are poised to take over from the muted neutrals we’ve grown so comfortable with, ushering in an era of design that favours impact over “safe” subtlety.

“Unlike the plum and rust hues spotlighted at Milan design week, these calming tones are rooted in nature…”

Paris Blanchfield

This moody palette delivers the same bold impact as more vibrant colour schemes, yet feels far less intimidating to adopt; unlike plum and rust hues, also spotlighted at Milan Design Week 2025, these calming tones are rooted in nature, and prove much easier to implement into your space. That said, working with moody, earthy tones doesn’t mean you need to avoid the season’s favourite reds. In my living room, I’ve mixed rich greens with deep red accents, and although the pairing may read a little festive on paper, the finished look is surprisingly elegant.

The Roundup

  • Designs from Milan Design Week 2025 and insights from trend forecasters agree that bolder colours will be increasingly popular during 2026
  • Popular muted and soft earth tones (like sage and pale clay) are expected to be swapped out for richer, more decadent colour schemes
  • Styling interiors with these deeper tones requires a little extra planning, and attention to how pieces balance one another out

The idea that soft, neutral palettes may soon be swapped for a richer variation of the trend is one that’s echoed by experts at the forefront of interior forecasting; Shaye Ford, Interior Designer at Miss Amara, says to “Expect a rise in earthy, darker shades; deep terracotta, burgundy, olive greens and chocolate browns; adding warmth and sophistication while still feeling grounded,” adding that she expects “warm, neutral tones” will remain as foundational staples.

And for those of us planning to weave these deeper neural shades into our own homes, it’s important to bear in mind that bolder tones are less forgiving than their softer predecessors. Successfully walking the line between ‘decadent’ and ‘smothering’ requires consideration, planning, and a keen eye for balance. My trick? Introduce statement pieces in deeper colours, like cocoa and olive, then lift the look with lighter accents. Think glints of gold, natural textures and paler décor in sage and cream. Alternatively, you can flip this advice on its head for a less-committal approach; pair a cream sofa with a colourful rug or cushions, or apply the same philosophy to your bed styling.


Hero pieces

Styling tip: weaving in natural textures and materials is an effective way to ground your space, even when incorperating a richer palette.

2026 Interior Design Trends Torquay Modular Sofa Chaise, Extra Wide Koala

Torquay Modular Sofa Chaise, Extra Wide
$4200 at Koala

2026 Interior Design Trends The Art of Letting Go Framed Canvas Urban Road

The Art of Letting Go Framed Canvas
$129 at Urban Road

The Asparagus Bunch Interior Design Trends 2026 Maison Balzac

The Asparagus Bunch
$39 at Maison Balzac

Mr Voss Columbus Candle Interior desin trends 2026

Mr Voss Columbus Candle
$130 at SpaceNK

Rhea Brown Botanical Washable Rug Moody Earth Tones Interiors

Rhea Brown Botanical Washable Rug
from $249 at Miss Amara

Elva Lowline Basket Moody Earth Tones Interiors 2026

Elva Lowline Basket
$79 at Aura Home

Poppi Scallop Coasters Set of 4 Tortoiseshell Earth Toned Interiors Interior design trends 2026

Poppi Scallop Coasters, Tortoiseshell
$29 $20 at Early Settler

Luxury Velvet Cushion Interior design trends colours 2026

Luxury Velvet Cushion
$79 at Aura Home

Vintage Linen Fringe Cushion in Tobacco Interior Design Trends 2026

Vintage Linen Fringe Cushion in Tobacco
$79 at Aura Home

AERO Fabric Armchair Interior design trends 2026

AERO Fabric Armchair
$1799 $1259 at FREEDOM

Burgstadt Set of 4 Mugs Interior design trends 2026

Burgstadt Set of 4 Mugs
$38 at Freedom


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1283421 2026 Interior Design Trends Earth Toned Interiors Torquay Modular Sofa Chaise, Extra Wide The Art of Letting Go Framed Canvas The Asparagus Bunch Mr Voss Columbus Candle Rhea Brown Botanical Washable Rug Moody Earthy Tones Interior design trends 2026 Elva Lowline Basket Olive Duvet Cover Bed Threads Poppi Scallop Coasters Set of 4 Tortoiseshell Earth Toned Interiors Interior design trends 2026 Luxury Velvet Cushion in Caper Aura Home Earth Toned Interiors 2026 Palette Aura Home Vintage Linen Fringe Cushion in Tobacco Earth Toned Interiors 2026 Interior design trends AERO Fabric Armchair Earth Toned Interiors 2026 Interior Trends Burgstadt Set of 4 Mugs homebeautiful-1283421
The biggest Christmas trends of 2025, according to Loui Burke https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/christmas/christmas-trends-2025-loui-burke/ Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:33:03 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283460 Home and hosting expert Loui Burke shares his take on the top holiday decorating trends this season.

The post The biggest Christmas trends of 2025, according to Loui Burke appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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A couple of years ago, stuck in lockdown, I fell down a YouTube rabbit hole of American Christmas decorating and thought, ‘Why don’t we do this in Australia?’ So I started sharing my own holiday videos, and they just blew up.

On my podcast Home & Hosting with Loui Burke, I love doing deep dives into design and decorating, but the TikToks are a fun way to cover the trends quickly – what’s in, what’s out and what’s coming next. And this year, here’s what I’m seeing that’s in (or about to be).

Evergreen

Loui Burke in front of his Christmas table.
Loui’s dining space is decorated with an ‘evergreen’ theme. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

A big trend I’m noticing in stores this year is what they’re calling the woodland or evergreen look, which is all about greens, earthy browns and warm tans. It works in every kind of home, whether yours is brick, weatherboard or contemporary.

Create the look by layering those greens and browns to create something that feels grounded and natural but still clean and timeless. A nature-inspired table with fresh hydrangeas in green and white would tie in so nicely with the Australian summer. This trend feels festive without being over the top.

Powder blue

The blue christmas trend displayed along a mantle.
Loui has woven in elegant hints of the hue with velvet ribbon and bow clips from Bed Bath N’ Table adorning the ‘Norway Spruce’ garland. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

Blue is a really big trend this year and it’s only getting bigger. I love the idea of bringing it in through ribbon – not just tied in bows, but cascading down the tree using wire. Velvet is my favourite because it feels so luxe, and in a light powder blue it strikes that perfect balance between wintry and summery.

It still feels fresh but has that nostalgic touch, especially when paired with silver ornaments or mercury glass baubles. If you want to do something crafty, I also love mixing in dried orange slices – blue and orange are complementary colours, so it adds a beautiful, natural element that feels really timeless.

Paper accordion trees

Paper accordian decorations on the dining table.
Paper tabletop trees from West Elm lend a joyful touch to the evergreen theme in Loui’s dining space, with West Elm stockings, candles from Provincial Home Living and a scalloped In The Roundhouse dining set. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

If you want to nod to the season without going all out, paper accordion trees are the way to go. They’re kid- and pet-friendly (since they’re just paper, there’s nothing to smash or break) and totally recyclable. Perfect for apartments or smaller homes, or if you’re heading away for the holidays but still want a festive touch. You can keep it neutral and minimal, go classic Christmas, or have fun with bold, bright colours, adding trees on consoles and stars hung in windows.

The paper accordion tree trend is really good for people who live in small spaces” Loui

Traditional

Christmas stockings hanging on a mantle.
Cosy stockings hang on Loui’s mantle. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

This year we’re seeing a big return to traditional Christmas, or what everyone’s calling ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’. It’s that classic, heritage look with reds, greens, gold accents and plenty of tartan. In Australia, with our warmer climate and love of light, coastal spaces, it can feel heavy if it doesn’t suit your interior.

It works best in older terraces or cottages with character – places that already have that Victorian warmth. Whereas in modern homes, you might want to take cues from this trend rather than go all in.

Australiana

The Australiana theme is still around, with the kangaroos, koalas and wattle. I think it’s nice to have that nod to Australia, but sometimes it ends up feeling a bit more like an Australia tree rather than a Christmas tree.

Last year, I did a yellow tree inspired by a Martha Stewart one from the ’90s, with lemon picks, lemon ribbon and silver ornaments. It felt really different, and people seemed to love it, but I don’t know if it’s the most accessible look. Still, I think the yellow vibe is a modern, cheerful take on an Aussie summer Christmas.

Character christmas

A bowl of Christmas decorations from Pottery Barn.
A mix of Pottery Barn ornaments, including a bow, wreath, Santa and candy cane, fill a Marinoni pewter serving bowl, ready for Loui’s display. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

It’s all about personality and play, with ornaments that celebrate the gifts, food and fun we share at this time of year. Skip the polar bears, deer and snow globes, and go for something more charismatic: cocktail glasses, prawns, Santa boots, even mini picture frames. Add a touch of lametta tinsel for sparkle and you’ve got a playful, fashion-forward tree that suits chic contemporary interiors or mid-century modern homes.

Coastal

Christmas bows and candles decorate a mantle piece.
“Blue is an upcoming trend for this year and next, so expect to see a lot more blue,” says Loui. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

There’s a focus on a coastal, ocean-inspired theme this year, which I love, but I’d stick to blues, browns and tans and avoid going full-on coral or jellyfish energy. I’ve seen festive jellyfish hanging ornaments with little mushroomhead shapes with beaded tails, and while they’re fun, I think it’s tricky to make them feel chic and Christmassy.

For that reason I’d avoid going too literal with animals or fauna on the tree. Stick to classic baubles and picks, because once you head down the animal path, it can get a bit rogue and lose that traditional Christmas feel.

Pink

Pink paired with red has been popular at Christmas for a few years, and globally it’s still a trend, but here in Australia we’re seeing it more on its own, with gold or forest green. Although there are a few brands with red and pink in their festive ranges.

I love pink, but we can play with it all year in homewares, so for Christmas I prefer something different. That’s why this year I’m loving blues, and next year I can see purples, magentas, silvers and greys coming in.

Gingerbread

Loui Burke decorates his Christmas Tree.
Gingerbread house decorations hang on the Norway Spruce Balsam Hill Christmas tree, topped by a ‘Capiz’ tree topper and matching collar, also from Balsam Hill. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

I think the gingerbread theme is really fun for anyone who loves warm browns and cosy tones. It’s a bit cute without tipping too far into full-on winter territory, and it works really well in lots of homes because it’s neutral in tans and creams.

Kids love it, and you can go all out with gingerbread villages or little houses, which I think looks best when it feels authentic rather than too fake. Some people even go gingerbread crazy with dinnerware, but for me, I love it on the tree or as part of a little festive display. It just feels so warm and welcoming.

Burgundy

For a more chic and romantic look, burgundy is really coming through this year. We saw a lot of burgundy over winter, and I think it’s going to make its way onto Christmas trees too, especially in ribbons.

It gives such an elegant feel, perfect for a festive season that’s a little more grown-up and timeless. People are also loving glass hanging ornaments. They’re very chic and happening at the moment and bring that nostalgic feel.

Loui Burke pictured at the entrance to his Melbourne home decorated at Christmas.
The entrance to Loui’s heritage home is decorated with a garland and wreath. (Credit: Photography: Leon Schoots)

You can follow Loui on Instagram and Tik Tok.

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10 affordable interiors, cooking and gardening books to gift this Christmas https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/best-interiors-cooking-gardening-books/ Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:21:17 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283329 Beautiful books that make perfect presents for under $78 each.

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English author Jeanette Winterson said: “Books and doors are the same thing. You open them, and you go through into another world.” Whether it’s a chick-lit novel, self-help manual or chunky historical biography, books absolutely transport us, comfort us and offer respite from the stressors of everyday life or — let’s be honest — doomscroll sessions.

The biggest source of escape is arguably beautifully crafted lifestyle hardcopy books, filled with exotic and soul-stirring photographs. Perfect for gifting, coffee-table books especially can inspire and teach, and even improve a person’s life. They look fabulous on display, too.

The Home Beautiful team has carefully curated a list of this year’s best new cooking, gardening and interiors books for the crafty, epicurious and houseproud people in your life. And guess what? They’re all under $78.

Best lifestyle hardcopy books 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

01

The Plant Book by Tammy Huynh

$33.74 (was $45), Amazon

Best for: Aspiring green thumbs, your mum

In ‘The Plant Book: The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Happiness’, Gardening Australia presenter and horticulturalist Tammy Huynh serves up everything you need to know about caring for indoor plants.

Tammy has curated a list of 50 popular house-plant species and their needs, cultivars and common problems — with photos to help the reader diagnose the issue and bring their plant back to life.

There’s an additional chapter covering general tips on lighting, potting mix, watering, fertiliser, humidity, pests and diseases, buying plants, hydroponics, and pots and planters — no matter what the species. 

02

Colour House by Harper by Design

$29.95 (was $34.99), Booktopia

Best for: Interiors enthusiasts, your bestie

‘Colour House: Vibrant Spaces to Brighten Your World’ is the no-brainer gift for the design aficionado in your life who’s bored with beige minimalism.

Filled with inspirational and bold photography featuring harmonious and colourful interiors, this stunning coffee-table book is a guide to creating rooms with personality.

Known for its beautiful and affordable lifestyle titles, Harper by Design has also published ‘Plant House’ and ‘Beach House’. Why not buy them all?

03

Winter in Tuscany by Amber Guinness

$77.69, Amazon

Best for: Italophiles, keen cooks, your mother-in-law

London-born cook and food writer Amber Guinness takes readers on a tour through her beloved Tuscany, where she lives, sharing fascinating historical notes and stunning photos of architecture and art.

Of course, ‘Winter in Tuscany: Cozy Recipes and The Quanto Basta Way’ features pages of local comfort-food recipes with a quanto basta approach, which refers to the Italian philosophy of “just enough”.

This quality hardcover cookbook will delight any family member, friend or colleague who is enamoured with either food or iconic Italy (and who isn’t).

Martha Stewart's Gardening Handbook book cover

04

Martha Stewart’s Gardening Handbook by Martha Stewart

$45.18, Amazon

Best for: Green thumbs, Super Fans, your aunty

Believe it or not, ‘Martha Stewart’s Gardening Handbook: The Essential Guide to Designing, Planting, and Growing’ is the homemaking maven’s 101st book.

Perfect for gardening gurus and novices alike, Martha’s 368-page tome reveals all the knowledge and skills she’s garnered (over decades) that the reader needs to design and cultivate a flourishing garden. It also includes photographs of her own gardens.

Martha said it best in her Netflix documentary: “If you want to be happy for a year, get married. If you want to be happy for a decade, get a dog. And if you want to be happy for the rest of your life, make a garden.” This beautiful book is a good place to start.

05

The Architect’s House by Stephen Crafti

$65, Aura Home

Best for: Architecture aficionados, your husband

Know someone who inhales interiors content, fixates on floor plans and drags you to every significant architectural site on every “relaxing” holiday you take together? This elegant coffee-table book will keep them occupied this Christmas.

Written by Stephen Crafti with photography by Nicole England, ‘The Architect’s House: Inside The Homes of 20 Architects From Around The World’ reveals what designers design for themselves and their families, including Australia’s own William Smart and Andrew Piva.

The homes are diverse — from luxe apartments to impressive houses surrounded by hectares of native forest.  

Interiors, gardening and recipe books lying on a brown fabric.
From Martha Stewart’s 101st book to the definitive cocktail guide, there’s a book for everyone in our gift guide. (Photography: Will Horner | Styling: Katrina Yaxley)

06

The Madrusan Cocktail Companion by Michael & Zara Madrusan

$69.99, David Jones

Best for: Aspiring mixologists, your dad

Hospitality power couple Michael and Zara Madrusan have created a comprehensive guide to classic drinks from every era, plus modern cocktails, with contributions from world-leading bartenders.

Based on the manuals they’ve curated for their award-winning bars and drawing from their own extensive library of books that date back to 1862 , there are more than 2,800 drinks covered in this ‘encyclopaedia’ of mixology.

It’s the only cocktail-recipe book a home bartender will ever need.

07

Beyond Baking by Philip Khoury

$55, David Jones

Best for: Home bakers, health-nut friends

What do Peanut Butter Choc Chop Cookies, Light Fruit Cake, Pistachio and Raspberry Cream Dream and Glazed Doughnuts all have in common? They’re entirely plant-based; in Philip Khoury’s beautiful cookbook, anyway.

Australian-born Philip is a world-renowned pastry chef and sustainability advocate who doesn’t believe you always need eggs, dairy or highly processed alternatives to create mouth-watering desserts.

As well as recipes and info on foundational techniques, ‘Beyond Baking: Plant-Based Baking For A New Era’ includes QR-code tutorials to walk the reader through every step.

08

A Visual Feast by Jono Fleming

$65, David Jones

Best for: Interiors addicts, yourself

In ‘A Visual Feast: Ingredients That Make a Home’, interior designer Jono Fleming explains how to combine all the best elements of design to create a harmonious and stylish space — while still reflecting your unique personality.

Featuring inspiring images and digestible tips, in this book you’ll learn how to make a room feel, not just look, beautiful, thanks to all the nous and experience Jono’s gathered over his career.

And naturally, ‘A Visual Feast’ is a chic styling item in its own right.

09

Vietnam: The Cookbook by Anaïs Ca Dao van Maneng

$55.75 (was $55.75), Amazon

Best for: World travellers, cooks, colleagues

If you think Vietnamese food is all pho and bánh mì, you are mistaken. ‘Vietnam: The Cookbook’ is a journey through a rich and diverse tapestry of flavours, cooking techniques and tradition. 

Chef and author Anais Ca Dao van Maneng travelled across Vietnam, from the hectic city of Hanoi to the highlands of Hà Giangis, to curate more than 400 authentic home-cooked dishes — faithfully presented and beautifully illustrated with step-by-step instructions.

Recipes include Summer Rolls, Chicken and Banana Blossom Salad, Savoury Sticky Rice and Mung Bean Dumplings and Baked Palm Sugar Honeycomb Cake. Dee-licious.

10

Padella: Iconic Pasta at Home by Tim Siadatan

$56.75, Booktopia

Best for: Gastronomes, your father-in-law

Tim Siadatan is the co-founder of iconic London restaurants Padella and Trullo, and a former protégé of Jamie Oliver. His second book is the ultimate pasta-lover’s cookbook.

Beyond its tactile cloth cover, this book features quick, everyday meals to more high-end dishes such as Pappardelle with Beef Shin Ragu — and every recipe is easy to understand with guaranteed delectable results.

‘Padella: Iconic Pasta at Home’ is going to be one of the most coveted cookbooks this Christmas. We said it here first.

The post 10 affordable interiors, cooking and gardening books to gift this Christmas appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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10 must-have festive ideas to shop from Big W https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/christmas/big-w-christmas-decorations/ Fri, 28 Nov 2025 04:53:20 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/big-w-christmas-2018-range From baubles to cheese knives, here's our edit of the best Christmas decorations from Big W.

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Christmas is the most wonderful time of year, but it has a way of filling our homes with stuff. As we scramble to put together a festive vibe, many of us spend a fortune or usher in a truckload of plastic-laden ornaments in a bid to fill our homes with cheer and merriment. But a curated collection from Big W will help you make Christmas decorating a meaningful and beautiful affair.

We’re looking for Christmas decorations that don’t assault the eyes or add chaos to your home, but fit right in while adding the right amount of Christmas joy. There’s a balance of natural tones and vibrant pops of colour across our best Christmas tree decorations, Christmas tables settings, wreaths and ornaments for the festive home. We love mixing new with old and hand-made decorations when getting ready for Christmas.

Big W has a habit of creating small collections of thoughtful Christmas decor that appeals to the eco-minded, junk-resisting home decorators among us, but who don’t want to break the bank. There’s plenty of tinsel out there, but there are plenty of options for the more conscious shopper as well. We’re rather focus on putting something special under the tree. Much of Big W’s Christmas collection is priced at $10 or below. And we can get behind ideas like making their decorations 100 percent glitter free. 

Here are the most covetable ideas from Big W’s Christmas range in 2025

Our top picks from Big W’s Christmas collection

Christmas trees

Colorado Pine Christmas Tree,
$79, Big W

Deluxe Pre-lit Pine Christmas Tree,
$199, Big W

Fraser Fir Pre-lit Pear Shaped Tree,
$179, Big W

Table Top Christmas Tree,
$16, Big W

Christmas decorations

Christmas Pre-Lit Plain Wreath,
$6, Big W

Christmas Vintage Greetings Baubles,
$4, Big W

Christmas Gold Berries in Vase
$8, Big W

Fairy Lights Warm White,
$20, Big W

Christmas table

Christmas Cheese Knives 2 Pack
$8, Big W

Christmas Premium Bon Bons 6 Pack,
$22, Big W

The post 10 must-have festive ideas to shop from Big W appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Inside our favourite celebrity Christmas homes https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/best-celebrity-christmas-homes/ Fri, 28 Nov 2025 01:10:58 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1260569 Peek inside these grand and glamorous Christmas homes.

The post Inside our favourite celebrity Christmas homes appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Celebrity homes tend to be grander and more glamorous than our own—and at Christmas, this is exactly what makes peeking inside them so much fun. Whether its an enormous Christmas tree or an expertly styled entryway, there’s something magical about celebrity homes at Christmas—no matter how aspirational the Christmas decor may be.

Fortunately, Home Beautiful has had the privilege of stepping inside a number of our Australian celebrity homes at this time of year. From Tim and Anna Robard’s elegantly decorated home to Darren Palmer’s creative Christmas tree, these are our favourite celebrity Christmas homes.

Kate Waterhouse on staircase with her dog
(Credits: Photography: Pablo Veiga / Styling: Olga Lewis)

The elegant Sydney abode of Kate Waterhouse comes alive in summer, when she and her family decorate their home for Christmas together. Gold sparkling bows and pine garlands are found throughout the stylish home, capturing Kate’s “classic and timeless” Christmas decorating style perfectly.

“The girls love decorating the tree together and making pavlova. We also always watch a Christmas movie on Christmas Eve – it’s a tradition we all look forward to,” Kate shares.

Kirsten and Rhys Stanley in front of their front door. The home is a modern farmhouse style with stone cladding, VJ panelling and a wooden door. A wreath for Christmas decorates the door.
(Credits: Photography: Leon Schoots / Styling: Belle Hemming)

A country Christmas, in a home built for their family’s evolution, was the dream for Kirsten and Rhys Stanley. The respective fashion model and Geelong Cats AFL player missed out on several farms before finding this regional Victorian property, where they live with their children Jagger, seven, Sloane, five, and Hudson, two.

Inside, a palette of greens and golds, warm whites, sparkly golds and soothing neutrals mixes in with tactile touches befitting the modern farmhouse style.

Alyce Tran Sydney home dining area with tree
(Credits: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Olga Lewis / Styling assistant: Amy Morrison)

Co-founder of homewares brand In The Roundhouse, Alyce Tran, invites us over as she prepares for her busiest time of year. Steering away from traditional Christmas tones, Alyce prefers to play with fresh floral arrangements and lean into what’s new and inspiring at In The Roundhouse.

Tim and Anna Robards outside their home with bougainvillea framing the entry
Photography: Alana Landsberry / Styling: Nonci Nyoni / Styling assistants: Julia Baston, Deborah Cohen / Hair & make-up: Max May, DLMAU

In a picturesque house in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, The Bachelor’s original couple, Tim and Anna Robards, show off their Christmas decorating skills as they prepare for their first Christmas as a family of four.

With a Christmas decorating style they describe as ‘minimalist chic,’ this home is where joyful festivity meets absolute elegance.

Carlene Duffy in her home.
Styling: Cedar & Suede/Photography: Lyndon Foss

Inside Carlene and Michael Duffy’s Gold Coast home at Christmastime

Colourful and nostalgic

For interior designer and experienced renovator Carlene Duffy, Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year. With a colourful and nostalgic approach to decorating, Carlene’s Christmas style helps transform her home into a space to entertain friends and spend relaxed time with family.

Photography: Abbie Melle

The Block judge has put a coastal twist on festive at his Hyams Beach hideaway, where a sparkling preserved palm leaf Christmas tree takes centre stage beside a table styled with elegant Australian natives.

Tara Dennis Christmas tree decorations
Photography: Martyn Rushby

Interiors expert Tara Dennis brings a laid-back luxury look to her idyllic riverside home. With her linen napkins, champagne-coloured baubles and warm white fairy lights, Tara knows how to bring a touch of magic into her home at this time of year.

Selling Houses Australia Wendy Moore home Christmas
Photography: Cath Muscat/The Interiors Edit / Styling: Imogene Abady

The Selling Houses Australia host loves getting in the Christmas spirit at her place, where she hosts her extended family on Christmas day. From her festive tablescape to a colourfully decorated Christmas tree, there’s plenty of inspiration to be found inside Wendy’s Christmas home.

The post Inside our favourite celebrity Christmas homes appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1260569 kate waterhouse luke ricketson house spiral staircase Christmas decorating rhys-stanley-geelong-cats-modern-farmhouse-christmas-front-door-kirsten-stanley-wreath Alyce Tran Sydney home pink dining table Christmas tree chandelier ONE TIME USE Tim and Anna Robards Home (14) Carlene Duffy’s Christmas Home shoot Styling: Cedar & Suede/Photography: Lyndon Foss dpalmerchristmas_abbiemelle_6 Tara Dennis Christmas tree decorations wendymoore dogv2_cath muscat_the interiors edit homebeautiful-1260569
Cricket legend Michael Clarke is selling his luxury Vaucluse home https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/michael-clarke-vaucluse-home/ Thu, 27 Nov 2025 03:20:29 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1283132 And he's not moving very far...

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Australian cricket legend Michael Clarke has listed his Vaucluse home for sale. Residing on the exclusive Olola Avenue, the property boasts five bedrooms and a generous 784 sqm size.

Clarke originally purchased the property in 2021 for $13.1 million, following his split from wife Kyly, who he shares a daughter with. He bought it from Dowco Property Group director Andrew Daoud. Prior to Daoud, the residence has been owned by property developer Bryan Rose between 2008 and 2019, as well as Allco Finance executive Phil Griffin until 2008.

While the home’s harbourside location is certainly a highlight, the property’s elegant interiors are just as impressive. On the ground floor, an airy, open-plan kitchen and living area opens out onto a resort-style garden with an entertaining area and swimming pool. The second floor is just as luxurious with an expansive master suite featuring an ensuite with a deep tub and private terrace.

It doesn’t look like Clarke is planning to leave the exclusive neighbourhood anytime soon, having reportedly spent around $20 million for a larger six-bedroom home on Hopetoun Avenue. While his current property doesn’t have a price guide yet, similar homes in the area have sold for around $20 million.

The luxury home is listed with Bill and David Malouf of Highland Double Bay Malouf and the full listing is available on realestate.com.

Inside Michael Clarke’s Vaucluse mansion

Michael Clarke's Vaucluse kitchen.
An oversized island makes a luxurious statement in this beautiful kitchen. (Credit: realestate.com.au)
Michael Clarke's Vaucluse living room.
The open-plan kitchen and living area connects seamlessly to home’s outdoor terrace. (Credit: realestate.com.au)
A staircase in Michael Clarke's Vaucluse home.
Elegant architectural details are found throughout the home, including this marble staircase. (Credit: realestate.com.au)
The living room in Michael Clarke's Vaucluse home.
A second living space provides more room for relaxing and entertaining. (Credit: realestate.com.au)
The bathroom inside Michael Clarke's Vaucluse home.
The master ensuite is flooded with light from the connected outdoor terrace. (Credit: realestate.com.au)
The bathroom inside Michael Clarke's Vaucluse home.
The sunny terrace is the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee or evening wine. (Credit: realestate.com.au)
The swimming pool at Michael Clarke's house in Vaucluse.
The backyard features a large swimming pool with a sunbathing area. (Credit: realestate.com.au)

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The glow-up: Why tapered candles are the ultimate tablescape upgrade https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/best-tapered-candles/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:21:56 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282929 Elevate your table with the season’s chicest candle trend.

The post The glow-up: Why tapered candles are the ultimate tablescape upgrade appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Is it just me who’s started to gauge the success of my dinner parties by how far down the candles burn? Depending on the quality, a good tapered candle should burn as lively as the conversation, until it finally extinguishes, creating a well of wax in your favourite candlesticks at the end of the evening. Better still if they burn out altogether – now that’s some sparkling conversation!

Tapered candles are having a moment, and we are here for every last waxy drip, obsessed with the way they flicker and burn between the faces of friends, casting a glowing ambience over even the most modest of table settings. The best part is the fun you can have mixing colours and styles of tapered candles with candleabras and candlesticks to suit whatever mood you’re creating. Pair heirloom silver candle holders with contemporary dinnerware, or place a cheeky ceramic candle holder in the centre of your tablescape to make a fun statement to loosen up a lunch. There are hundreds of combinations to play with.

Whatever your mood, we’ve got the perfect candlestick and its tapered mate to set the scene – just add matches.

Collected glass candlesticks sit cosily beside a ceramic urn brimming with seasonal blooms. (Credit:Photo: Will Horner / Styling: Kayla Gex )

Shop tapered candles

Trudon Madeleine tapered candles in Burgundy 6/pack,
$59, David Jones

Daphne Pink & Red Taper Candles Pack of 3,
$19.49 (usually $14.99), Adairs

Dinner candle in Otter, set/12
$44.50, Pepperwhites by Tara Dennis

Viyffo 12 inch taper candles in Green, set/ 4,
$30.06, Amazon

25cm tapered dinner candles in Red
16.95, Big W

Tall taper candle. set/2,
$19.95, The Iconic

The Asparagus Bunch in Olive,
$31.20 (usually $39), Maison Balzac

Porter Green Array in Peach + Petal
$19.97 (usually $39.95), The Iconic

Let’s Get Lit Linea LED taper candle set/2
$29.95, Myer

Tapered candle pair in Pink Clay
$28, L&M Home

Ribbed taper candle in Deep Red,
$14.95, Pillow Talk

Luna By Camilia 12 inch taper candles,
$32, Amazon


Shop candle holders

(Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Alice Ierace)

From left: ‘Westgarth’ cut crystal glass candlestick, $29.95, Freedom. ‘Bloom’ stainless steel floor candlestick, $405/medium, Georg Jensen. ‘Hotham’ marble candlestick, $79.95/set of 2,
Freedom. ‘Opus’ marble candlestick in Nougat, $149/medium, Saardé. Black Blaze ‘Beaded Fountain’ brass candlestick in White, $129/large, David Jones. ‘Loreto’ aluminium candlestick in Brass, $80, and ‘Carin’ glass candlestick, $25, both Provincial Home Living. ‘Orb’ white onyx candlestick, $129/large, Black Blaze. ‘St Piere’ glass candlestick, $25, Provincial Home Living. Stoneware
candlestick
, $14.99, H&M. For similar candles, try taper candles in Sand, $16.90/set of 2, Pepperwhites by Tara Dennis. Red velvet ribbon, $19.95/3m, Bespoke Letterpress.

The post The glow-up: Why tapered candles are the ultimate tablescape upgrade appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1282929 Trudon Madeleine Burgundy Tapered Candles 6pk Daphne Pink & Red Taper Candles Pack of 3 _Dinner Candle Otter Viyffo 12 Inch Green Taper Candles Set of 4 (1) Tapered Dinner Candle 25cm in Red Tall Taper Candle Set of 2 The Asparagus Bunch in Olive Porter Green Array in Peach and Petal Let’s Get Lit Linea LED Taper Candle Tapered Candle Pair – Pink Clay (1) Deep Red Ribbed Taper Candle _Luna By Camilia 12 Inch Taper Candles Taper Candles homebeautiful-1282929
8 luxe artificial Christmas trees that look as good as the real thing https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/christmas/best-christmas-tree-australia/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 02:35:07 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1054262 Plus, they'll last the test of time.

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In most cases, the look of real Christmas trees is unmatched. The look and the fresh smell of pine needles are the pinnacle of getting into the festive spirit. However, it’s no secret that real Christmas trees are not only expensive, but they are also hard to care for, hard to get rid of after Christmas, and just overall…messy. That’s where artificial Christmas trees come in. And no, we’re not talking about those obviously fake and plastic-looking ones. 

We’ve come a long way since cheap artificial Christmas trees that break after one season. High-quality Christmas trees are aplenty, but finding one that looks as good as the real thing? That takes a bit of digging. 

You might also like These pre-lit Christmas trees make holiday decorating a breeze

2025’s TOP ARTIFICIAL CHRISTMAS TREES IN AUSTRALIA

The best artificial Christmas trees to buy in 2025

01

Monterey Pine with LED Clear Lights

from $599 (was $1199) at Balsam Hill

Best for: Realistic, full and fluffy Holiday foliage

When it comes to artificial Christmas trees, Balsam Hill creates some of the most luxurious foliage on the market. Equipped with twinkling LED lights and remarkably realistic branches and needles, the Monterey Pine is the perfect holiday centrepiece. The best part? As part of Balsam Hill’s Black Friday Sale, you can now take this beauty home for $600 less than its usual price.

One 5-star reviewer says of the Monterey Pine, “Attractive foliage, easy to put together, sturdy and lights are well distributed across the tree, looks beautiful.” And with over 380 other 5-star reviews on this artificial Christmas tree, she’s not the only one with these sentiments.

02

Arrow pine flocked 180cm Christmas Tree

$399 at Myer

Best for: A luxurious, snowy pine

Get into the Christmas spirit with this snowy-tipped pre-lit flocked Christmas tree from Myer. With a realistic snow design all over, a white Christmas can be your reality (even when it’s 35 degrees outside!).

Take comfort in this artificial Christmas tree’s average rating of 4.6 stars and its glowing reviews. One of which states, “This tree is a total game-changer and has instantly elevated my festive décor. From the moment I took it out of the box, I was impressed. Setup was an absolute breeze thanks to the design—the sections fit together perfectly, and the pre-lit feature (with 200 beautiful lights!) means I skipped the most frustrating part of decorating.”


03

Pine Cashmere LED Christmas tree

$279.99 (was $399.99) at Adairs

Best for: In-built fairy lights, no untangling required

Looking for a traditional full-bodied artificial Christmas tree? Look no further than this high-quality, luxurious number from Adairs. Pre-lit for your convenience, it’s a low-fuss way to set the scene this season. Why this tree? For us, it’s the fluffy pine needles, offering a full (or perhaps lightly flocked) appearance and, of course, the fact that we won’t have to spend hours untangling lights when dressing it up for the holidays.

04

Christmas Tree Jingle Jollys

$87.95 at Big W

Best for: A classic Christmas tree under $100

Get into the festive spirit with this affordable Christmas tree from Big W. Featuring bushy multi-tonal green branches that will allow your favourite Christmas ornaments and lights to shine, it’s the perfect option for those who want a festive home without spending hundreds. Plus, it’s super easy to assemble and pack away, so you know you will bring it out year after year, season after season, without fail.

“I was definitely sceptical at first,” writes one reviewer, before adding “but when it arrived, and I set it up, I couldn’t have been more happy. It’s beautiful! It’s exactly how it’s described”

05

Royal Deluxe Bristle Christmas tree

from $149.99 (was $229.99) at Temple & Webster

Best For: A luxe, yet surprisingly affordable, classic pine

Lush and full, just how we like it. This artificial Christmas tree from Temple & Webster looks just like the real thing, and for the quality, it’s priced remarkably well. As it’s currently sitting at a 4.9-star rating with almost 600 reviews, you can shop with total confidence, even when we’re this close to Christmas.

One festive decorator writes in her review, “I am deeply obsessed with this tree. I purchased it last year after Christmas, and it is without a doubt the tree of my dreams. I didn’t open it up until this year and am blown away at how thick and lush it is in person.”

06

Perfect Holiday Christmas tree in Flocked Snow

$82.60 at Amazon

Best for: A white Christmas

Although a white Christmas won’t be on the cards for most Australians, there’s no harm in pretending. With a snowy-tipped tree like this one from Amazon, you can create the perfect winter Christmas scene at home (while still enjoying the sun and the beach during the day). Just add a white Christmas tree skirt to complete the look.

The Perfect Holiday Christmas tree currently boasts an average rating of 4.4 stars and over one thousand reviews; one of which offers the following advice to potential shoppers, “Don’t be thrown off by the box and compact size at the beginning. Those are full, well-made, and beautiful. Very happy I bought them.”

07

National Tree Company, Kingswood Fir Pencil Tree

$121.61 at Amazon

Best for: Bringing the Christmas Spirit to smaller spaces

If a slimline tree is more your forte, consider this one from the National Tree Company. With a much smaller base diameter than your usual artificial Christmas tree, this holiday staple is nice and compact, while still featuring hundreds of individually crafted branch tips to create realistic, full-bodied branches.

With over 5,600 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, it’s a trusted option for those working with a little less space this holiday season. “We do love this tree!” writes one reviewer, adding that it’s “easy to put up, fits in every corner, does not take up much space, and looks absolutely stunning!”

08

New Oregon 180cm cashmere Christmas tree

$299 at Myer

Best for: A showstopping Christmas centrepiece

Featuring 820 tips, this Christmas tree from Myer boasts varying tones of green that make it look just as good as the real thing. Plus, it’s 180cm high, making it a great option for both small and large spaces. The best part? It’s now included in Myer’s Black Friday deals, making it cheaper than ever to bring Christmas cheer home.

One 5-star reviewer writes, “Really happy with the New Oregon 180cm Cashmere Christmas Tree. It was easy to set up, looks full once the branches are fluffed, and the cashmere tips give it a really nice, soft finish. Good height for most rooms and feels sturdy. Overall, great value and looks fantastic once decorated.”

What should you look for when shopping for a high-quality artificial Christmas tree?

Size and shape: Firstly, with most big items that you buy for the home, it’s important to find a size that fits and suits your space. If you have tall ceilings, you’ll want one that fills up that vertical space. Otherwise, if the tree you opt for is too small, it may look out of place. And if you’re on the flip side and you have a smaller area to set up your tree, make sure you choose a size that doesn’t overwhelm your living space. 
Appearance: It may seem obvious, but you’ll want to find one that looks as realistic as possible. Avoid trees that are too ‘shiny’ as this is the telltale sign a tree is artificial. Moreover, find ones that closely mimic the appearance of evergreen trees – the tips of your tree should have a natural shape and colour. It’s also important to look at the density of the branches – a lush, full tree is a luxe option. 

The post 8 luxe artificial Christmas trees that look as good as the real thing appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1054262 Balsam Hill Best Artificial Christmas Tree 2025 Monterey Pine on Sale myer-snpwychristmas-tree pine-christmas-led-tree-adairs Best Artificial Christmas Trees Christmas Tree Jingle Jollys Temple-and-webster-green-christmas-tree amazon-snow-christmas-tree 8 myer-christmas-tree-green homebeautiful-1054262
These Black Friday deals on cool summer bedding are a dream come true https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/black-friday/best-black-friday-summer-bedding-sales/ Fri, 21 Nov 2025 02:34:53 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282739 Cool and comfortable nights await

The post These Black Friday deals on cool summer bedding are a dream come true appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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I’m an incredibly hot sleeper, and having only moved to Sydney a mere two months ago, I haven’t quite adjusted to the temperature yet. While the scorching Aussie heat usually proves manageable during the day, it’s nighttime when I really start to suffer, even with a powerful fan set up right next to my bed.

Having always lived in colder environments, I wasn’t aware of just how impactful picking the right bedding (and the right mattress) can be during hotter months. Now, as soon as Sydney temperatures start to rise, I’m swapping out my cotton sheets for bamboo and opting for lighter, more breathable duvets. And luckily, with Black Friday currently in full swing, it’s more affordable than ever to replace stuffy winter bedding with cooler options that are fit for summer.

What you need to know about 2025’s Black Friday bedding sales

  • The dreamiest bedding brands, such as Sheet Society, I Love Linen, and Adairs have now launched their Black Friday sales
  • Shoppers can expect to save well over $100 on their summer bedding refresh during Black Friday
  • For cool summer bedding, opt for bedding fabrics like bamboo and linen for optimal temperature regulation

For a full bedroom refresh, browse our roundup of the best Black Friday mattress deals.


Shop the Black Friday bedding sales from brands I adore

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

With so many crucial features to keep in mind when shopping for bedding, including thread count, fabric, and temperature regulation, it helps to have a few trusted brands on hand that you know only put out the best of the best. The following retailers are ones that I completely trust, and they all have enticing Black Friday bedding deals on offer this sale season.

RetailerSale DetailsNotes & RestrictionsLink
Sheet SocietyUp to 50% offSelect itemsShop now
I Love Linen30% Bedding and free pillowcasesOn orders over $200Shop now
Bonny$50 off every doonaSelect itemsShop now
The Iconic20-40% off homeSelect itemsShop now
Sheridan40% offExcludes Hunter Fragrances and gift cardsShop now
Bonnie & Neil20-30% offSitewideShop now
MCM House25-50% offSitewideShop now
Adairs30% offSitewide with exclusionsShop now
MyerVarious discountsSelect itemsShop now
Bed Bath N’ Table20-60% offSelect itemsShop now
Pillow Talk30% off full price itemsClub comfort exclusiveShop now

Dreamy Black Friday summer sheet sales

Choosing cool and comfortable sheets is, in my opinion, the most crucial part of building your summer bedding bundle. These fresh and breathable options are perfect for hot sleepers like myself, and right now, they’re all adorned with much smaller price tags.

Product Image of French Flax Linen Sheet Set, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

French Flax Linen Sheet Set, Queen
$355 $248.50, I Love Linen

Product Image of Ettitude Signature Sateen Fitted Sheet, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Ettitude Signature Sateen Fitted Sheet, Queen
$179 $124.79, THE ICONIC

Product Image of Kane Bamboo Sheet Set, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Kane Bamboo Sheet Set, Queen
$260 $182, Sheet Society

Product Image of Abbotson European Flax Linen Flat Sheet, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Abbotson European Flax Linen Flat Sheet, Queen
$349.99 $209.99, Sheridan


Sleep-saving Black Friday Quilt Cover sales

Quilt covers may sit atop your sheets, but that doesn’t mean they don’t play a part in temperature regulation. Complete your perfect summer bedding bundle with these Black Friday deals on quilt covers.

Product Image of Sheet Society Eve Linen Quilt Cover Set, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Sheet Society Eve Linen Quilt Cover Set, Queen
$330 $264, THE ICONIC

Product Image of Vintage Washed Linen Quilt Cover and Pillowcases, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Vintage Washed Linen Quilt Cover and Pillowcases, Queen
$429.98 $300.98, Adairs

Product Image of French Flax Linen Double Sided Quilt Cover Set as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

French Flax Linen Double Sided Quilt Cover Set
$400 $280, I Love Linen

Product Image of AGDAS Bamboo Cotton Quilt Cover Set, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

AGDAS Bamboo Cotton Quilt Cover Set, Queen
$115 $104, Freedom


Best Black Friday summer doona deals

As a kiwi, I’m still not used to the term doona, but I know that Australian brands make some of the best. To keep you cool this summer, I’ve curated a list of top cooling duvets that are all part of 2025’s best Black Friday bedding sales.

Product Image of Koala Balmy Nights Duvet, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Koala Balmy Nights Duvet, Queen
$185 $157.25, Koala

Product Image of Minijumbuk Super Cool Doona, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Minijumbuk Super Cool Doona, Queen
$429.99 $215 for Myer One, Myer

Product Image of Bonny Summer Quilt, Queen as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Bonny Summer Quilt, Queen
$449 $399, Bonny

Product Image of Pure Cotton Washable Quilt as part of the best black friday bedding sales 2025 summer bedding collection

Pure Cotton Washable Quilt
$249.99 $174.99, Adairs


Explore our most popular Black Friday guides


Tips for building a summer bedding set this Black Friday

When it comes to curating a cooler bedding bundle for summer, the options can feel overwhelming. However, by keeping these five key tips in mind (that a fellow hot sleeper can attest to), you’re bound to end up with the dreamiest set you’ve ever slept on.

1. Choose Breathable Natural Fibres

Opt for materials like cotton, linen or bamboo, which wick away moisture and allow plenty of airflow; essential for staying cool on warm nights.

2. Go for Lightweight Quilts

Swap heavy winter duvets for low-GSM summer quilts (around 200–350 GSM). They provide comfort without trapping heat.

3. Pick Cooling Sheet Weaves

Look for percale sheets if you love a crisp, cool feel. Their matte finish and tight weave make them ideal for hot sleepers.

4. Check for OEKO-TEX Certification

Choosing bedding that’s certified chemical-free is especially helpful for sensitive skin and ensures a healthier sleep environment.

5. Keep a Light Layer Handy

A cotton throw or light coverlet is perfect for fluctuating summer temperatures, adding just enough comfort without the weight.

The post These Black Friday deals on cool summer bedding are a dream come true appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1282739 French Flax Linen Sheet Set Ettitude Signature Sateen Fitted Sheet Black Friday Bedding Sale 2025 Sheet Society Kane Bamboo Sheet Set Best Black Friday Bedding Sales 2025 Summer Bedding Abbotson European Flax Linen Stripe Flat Sheet Best Black Friday Bedding Sales 2025 Summer bedding Eve Linen Quilt Cover Set Sheet Society Black Friday Bedding sale 2025 Vintage Washed Linen Linen & Onyx Border Quilt Cover Separates French Flax Linen Double Sided Quilt Cover Set Black Friday Bedding Sales 2025 Summer Bedding AGDAS Bamboo Cotton Quilt Cover Set Black Friday Bedding Sales 2025 Summer Bedding Koala Balmy Nights Duvet Black Friday Bedding Sale Summer Doona Minijumbuk Super Cool Summer Doona, Black Friday Bedding Sales 2025 Bonny Summer Quilt Doona Black Friday Bedding Sale 2025 Adairs Cool Cotton Washable Quilt Black Friday Bedding Sales 2025 homebeautiful-1282739
Pink vs Green: why these complimentary opposites are a wicked combination in your home https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/pink-and-green-decor/ Fri, 21 Nov 2025 01:09:30 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282700 A timeless combination in anyone’s book, pink and green are complementary opposites on the colour wheel, making a winning combination that’s not just good, it’s magic! Just ask Bonnie & Neil, whose maximalist homewares are saturated with countless iterations of this dynamic colour duo, or Smeg, who have redefined their iconic SMF05 Stand Mixer in […]

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A timeless combination in anyone’s book, pink and green are complementary opposites on the colour wheel, making a winning combination that’s not just good, it’s magic!

Just ask Bonnie & Neil, whose maximalist homewares are saturated with countless iterations of this dynamic colour duo, or Smeg, who have redefined their iconic SMF05 Stand Mixer in a blushing shade of pink, bringing more power, effortless performance, and the timeless beauty of Italian design to your kitchen, inspiring creativity every day.

Here are five more reasons to bring these forces of colour goodness together in one room for a brilliant result that defies gravity.

Bonnie & Neil bring the poppy colour combo of pink and green to glorious life in their latest collection. (Credit: Bonnie & Neil)

1. Lilly Allen’s New York boudoir

From its oversized furniture to intricate wallpaper details, Lilly Allen and David Harbour’s Brooklyn brownstone is awash with colour and bold patterns that tell a different story from the tumultuous relationship that has played out within its walls. In fact, it’s an inspiring lesson in just how far interior design can communicate the messages and moods of those who inhabit the spaces – or at least what’s desired… From the bedroom to the ensuite, the use of pink and green in paint and wallpaper, often as depicted in nature, is pure joy.

An open doorway, surrounded by floral wallpaper leads to a view of a bedroom with pink bedding, vintage wall art, and ornate patterned carpet.
(Credit: The Gambino Group)

2. Chic contemporary living room

The dusty pink chosen for the walls in this living room sings in harmony with the explosion of green on the velvet sofa, which has been drawn up close. Splashed in Dulux Evening Blush, the walls and ceiling provide a pretty, feminine backdrop for the eclectic arrangement of colourful decor. Coating the fireplace and wainscoting in the same warming hue gives the entire room a sophisticated effect that steers the look firmly into the now.

(Credit: Photography: Lisa Cohen / Styling: Bree Leech)

3. Stylist Alexandra Brownlow’s playful take on Christmas decorating

Always ahead of the curve, smashing pink and modern green make for an up-to-the-minute take on festive hues in the Christmas home of stylist Alexandra Brownlow. “I chose fluoro pink, which is a nod to artist Joan Ross, who uses fluoro yellow paint to raise awareness of environmental and political issues through her art practice,” says Alexandra, who accented her living room with pink and green blooms that draw tones from her own art collection.

Alexandra Brownlow Christmas gift wrapping
A pop of fluorescent pink works so well against lime green Christmas wrapping. (Credit: Photography: Kate Enno)

4. A thoughtfully themed bedroom

Thibaut ‘Chatelain’ wallpaper in Pink draws from nature and unites the colours in this child’s bedroom, where a bespoke bedhead runs interference between the wildflowers and wainscoting, painted in Porter’s Paints Pretty in Pink. “When it came to the children’s bedrooms, we embraced a more playful and individualised approach,” says interior designer Katherine Lillie, who wanted each room to “set a scene and a story”.

A pink bedroom for a little girl.
Pink and green are old friends – just ask nature! (Credit: Photography: Kate Enno / Styling: Annalese Hay)

5. Pretty sitting room

The inimitable Amy Spargo’s own Mornington Peninsula home sets a high bar in the colour stakes. Her sitting room in particular is brimming with her incredible skill in mixing colour and pattern – heralding a lively combination of pink and green hues. The confidence to place a pair of vintage woven pedestals against walls in Taubmans Tawny Rose sets a chic, yet cosy tone, which Amy says, “Just wraps around you – you feel good surrounded by that colour.”

Sitting room with buttery yellow couches and lots of lamps
(Credit: Photography: Martina Gemmola / Interior design & styling: Amy Spargo, Maine House Interiors)

SMF05 Stand Mixer in Pink,
$699, SMEG

Buttercup linen bolster in Olive,
$199.20 (usually $249), Bonnie & Neil

Foley dining chair in Alles Green,
$349 (usually $699), James Lane

The post Pink vs Green: why these complimentary opposites are a wicked combination in your home appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1282700 full bleed image (9) lily-allen-david-harbour-brooklyn-brownstone-home-sale-pink-bedroom Dulux Journey Alexandra Brownlow Christmas gift wrapping blue-modern-home-melbourne (11) mornington peninsula traditional family home country style living room blue rug animal print lamps lounge pink walls cushions Smeg SMF05 Stand Mixer Buttercup Olive Linen Bolster Flora Rug 300x400cm in Husk Foley Dining Chair Alles Green homebeautiful-1282700
Glow up: The vintage lighting trends we still can’t get enough of https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/lighting-design-through-the-decades/ Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:07:34 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282555 These vintage styles light up our lives!

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There was once a time, in the not-too-distant past, when the sunset plunged our homes into darkness each night. When Home Beautiful was first published in 1925, many Australian homes didn’t have electricity. As Sue Walker explains in The Untold Story of William Shum, “It was expensive, the supply was unreliable and people were frightened of being electrocuted.” Home Beautiful embraced this lighting innovation, encouraging readers with articles about “the strange new world of the all-electric home”.

The schemes born in that period still inform our homes. We spoke to lighting designer and Bond University lecturer, Dr Susan Lambert, as well as co-founder of The Montauk Lighting Co, Marie Botsis-Premici, to shine a light on how the past and present mingle with electric yet timeless style.

Elegant living room with pink walls, patterned armchairs, large windows with white curtains, and a decorative pendant lighting hanging from a ceiling rose.
Pleated lampshades have a long history but have enjoyed a resurgence recently due to the colour and pattern they can provide, as seen in this living area by Brownlow Interior Design. (Photography: Christine Francis)

There’s still a lot of charm to the style of lighting that developed in the early days of electricity. As Dr Susan Lambert explains, “Two strong design movements emerged: the Bauhaus and the Art Deco movement.” Semi-flush mount ceiling lights with glass shades and satin nickel finishes were popular, as were porcelain pendants.

A timber vanity and art deco mirror in a 1920s inspired bathroom.
This Art Deco bathroom by Studio Trio is filled with charm. (Photography: Pablo Veiga, Styling: Jack Milenkovic)

The schoolhouse light shade, with its distinctive curved bowl design, is a standout from the period. These forms of lighting weren’t just sculptural but practical as well. “Light shades were diffuse so provided light in all directions,” says Susan. For a pendant that transcends trends, Marie from The Montauk Lighting Co suggests refined silhouettes and quality materials, plus a sense of scale to suit the size of the room.

A timeless scheme allows overhead lighting to be off in favour of wall lights, floor and table lamps” – Marie Botsis-Premici, co-founder of The Montauk Lighting Co

Shop the iconic styles

A pendant light with ornate details.

‘Clarisse’ pendant light,
$739, Temple & Webster.

A semi-flush mount ceiling light with porcelain shade.

‘Willis’ resin semi-flush mount ceiling light,
$419.99 (was $655), Temple & Webster.


A ph lamp, originally designed in 1926.

‘PH’ Opal Glass table lamp in Black,
$2,638.15, Nordic Nest.

A table lamp with a green shade, similar to a banker lamp.

Telbix ‘Lyman’ table lamp,
$179, Schots Home Emporium.

A pendant light with a silhouette similar to the schoolhouse pendant of the 1930s.

‘Carlton’ pendant light in Black and Opal Gloss Glass,
$116 (was $168.95), Mica Lighting.

A pendant light with a satin Chrome finish that has a similar silhouette to the iconic PH lamps of the 1930s.

‘Nathan’ pendant light in Satin Chrome,
$179.99 (was $219.99), Temple & Webster.

Bedroom with floral wallpaper, green headboard, striped bedding, and a unique lamp on a nightstand.
Greg Natale opted for a striking pendant above the bed and a ‘Pipistrello’ table lamp, designed by Gae Aulenti in 1965, for a mid-century modern touch. (Photography: Anson Smart)

The ’50s and ’60s saw a Scandinavian design trend sweep our shores and it’s a style that still has a hold over us: mid-century modern. “Lighting like the George Nelson saucer and the Artemide mushroom lamp reflect the era’s futuristic aesthetic that developed as a result of advancements in science and technology,” says Susan. These mushroom-cap silhouettes are still popular as table and floor lamps, especially in colourful hues.

Living room with a large painting of a stormy sea, copper wall art, and a modern pendant light.
The DCW Editions ‘Here Comes The Sun’ pendant was designed in 1970 and perfectly captures the futuristic style of the previous decades. Artwork (on left) by Anya Pesce from M Contemporary. ‘Outa There’ painting (on right) by James Robertson. (Credit: Julia Fairley)

Says Marie, “A well-designed lamp should feel like a sculptural object by day and create atmosphere by night.” Ultimately, that’s the secret to the perfect lighting scheme – the addition of ambience. As Marie adds, “there’s nothing cosier than lamp o’clock.”

Shop the iconic styles

Orange Artemides mushroom table lamp

Artemide ‘Nessino’ table lamp in Orange,
$237, Holloways of Ludlow.

Aluminium dome pendant light

Telbix ‘Polk’ pendant light in Black & Aluminium,
$370/45cm, Schots Home Emporium.

George Nelson saucer replica pendant light

George Nelson replica ‘Bubble Saucer’ pendant light,
$359.99/45cm (was $419.99), Temple & Webster.

Aluminium dome light

‘Miki’ industrial aluminium pendant light in Silver,
$39.95 (was $64.95), Temple & Webster.

Floor lamp with a long, thin and arched stand

‘Azzedine’ silver floor lamp,
$179 (was $249), Early Settler.

George Nelson saucer replica pendant light

‘Jaspa90’ pendant light,
$779 (was $1,129.95), Mica Lighting.

Elegant living room with a curved sofa, geometric carpet, modern lighting, and a window with blue curtains.
Proof that it wasn’t all about downlights, the ‘Shogun’ table lamp was designed in the ’80s by Mario Botta for Artemide and features in this space by Greg Natale. (Photography: Anson Smart)

The mushroom silhouette evolved in 1977 with the ‘Atollo’ table lamp by Vico Magistretti, which is still popular today and sold by Euroluce. And as the ’80s burst onto the scene, originality was officially in.

A photo of a woman wearing a white blouse and matching blazer. She is sitting at a table with a table lamp in the foreground and another behind her. The one in the foreground has a mushroom shape and is made of brass.
The brass table lamp, from Kira & Kira retail and interior design studio in Miami, Queensland, features the iconic mushroom silhouette. Dr Susan Lambert (pictured) owns the other light fittings in this image. (Photography: Cavan Flynn / image via Bond University)

“Light fittings had bold expression in a variety of colours and there was an emphasis on individuality,” shares Susan. “Recessed downlights became very popular, and lighting moved away from surface mounted lights to recessed and track mounted luminaires.” We’re still feeling the effects of the rise in downlights. While they serve a purpose, Marie says they have been overused. “Downlights have come a long way,” she says. “You can cut the impact of downlights by ensuring the LED light source is deep set into the fitting.”

Shop the iconic styles

Gold mushroom lamp

‘Cosh’ table lamp in Brass,
$67.95 (was $79.95), Freedom.

A desk lamp with a black finish

‘Thor’ desk lamp with USB in Black,
$129, Myer.

A light pendant that is reminiscent of a flying saucer.

Arteluce ‘Aurora’ pendant by Perry King & Santiago Miranda,
$3,690.57, Etsy.

A table lamp that has a gold finish

‘Saturn’ table lamp by Robert Sonneman for George Kovacs,
$2,429.45, Etsy.

A desk lamp with a silver finish

‘Toya’ steel adjustable task lamp in Silver,
$119.99 (was $149.99), Temple & Webster.

A dark toned metallic mushroom lamp

Oluce ‘Atollo’ table lamp in Nickel by Vico Magistretti,
$1,892 (was $2,102), Archi Products.

Modern dining room with glass table, sculptural chairs, a ceiling with a raised section in the middle, which has a wavy shape. A tall window has sheer curtains and hanging from the tall ceiling are two modern light pendants.
Greg Natale created a modern style with a twist. The pendants are reminiscent of the ‘Aurora’ pendant by Perry King and Santiago Miranda for Arteluce. (Photography: Anson Smart)

At the turn of the century, halogen bulbs still influenced lighting design. These were small in size, meaning recessed lights could have a smaller diameter. “To minimise the number of openings in a ceiling,” says Susan, “pairing and grouping low voltage lights became popular.” She adds that this decade saw a rise in our environmental consciousness and this is something that The Montauk Lighting Co has also noticed. “There’s been a shift in style to more organic materiality and form,” says Marie. “From rattan, leather and plaster finishes combined with raw brass that ages beautifully over time, through to irregular shapes that create movement.” The key is in the materiality and form.

Shop the iconic styles

Assymetrical pendant light.

‘Gregg’ pendant light by Ludovica e Roberto Palomba for Foscarini,
$671/Small, Lumens.

A classic Tiffany style table lamp with greens, reds, blues and purples on an ornate base.

‘Wisteria’ leadlight Tiffany table lamp,
$169.99 (was $199.99), Temple & Webster.

Table lamp on a thin stand with a small yellow sphere on a wide, flat round white surface. The design is reminiscent of a cracked egg.

Large ‘Egg’ floor lamp by Michel Froment, 1990s,
$14,945.62, 1st Dibs.

Spherical table lamp with a small base that is barely visible.

‘Dioscuri’ table lamb by Michele De Lucchi for Artemide,
$6305/Mini, Lumens.

Antique shop with decorative mirrors, lamps, and wall sconces displayed on a white wall
Tamsin Johnson’s chic showroom is filled with vintage lighting treasures. (Photography: Tamsin Johnson)

In the 2010s we farewelled halogens and there was a widespread adoption of LED bulbs. This change was swift thanks to the reduction in wattage that LED lights provided. “Due to the small size of LED strip lights, they also replaced fluorescent tubes,” adds Susan. “This allowed for indirect lighting to be easily incorporated into coves and recesses.”

Creative placements, such as under stair treads, kitchen cabinetry and bathroom mirrors, all serve purposes. In the future, Marie predicts bold designs, such as those in hotels and restaurants. “With access to so many incredible global brands in Australia we can all create something unique to us. Something that resonates and connects us to a special place or moment in time.”

Shop the iconic styles

A brass pendant light with a curved design.

‘Cortland’ LED pendant light,
$589.99 (was $699), Temple & Webster.

A table lamp with neutral tones.

‘Sorento’ ceramic table lamp in White,
$199.95, Myer.

A floor lamp with three spherical light fittings, and a brass frame that is minimalist and sleek.

3-light ‘Tree’ floor lamp in Gold,
$132.99/165cm, Myer.

Table lamp with curved base and pleated lampshade

‘Catalina’ table lamp in Rose and Linen
$139.99, Adairs.

A table lamp with a rattan base.

‘Vernon’ woven table lamp in Brown,
$179.95, Myer.

A floor lamp with a brass stand and one spherical light fitting on top.

‘IC Lights’ by Michael Anastassiades
$1,639 (was $2,187), Archi Products.

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1282555 lighting-design-lighting-pendant-light-lamp-shade-vintage 1920s-art-deco-bathroom (1) shopping-lighting-20s-30s-40s-porcelain-pendant shopping-lighting-20s-30s-40s-semi-mounted-flush-ceiling-light shopping-lighting-20s-30s-40s-ph-lamp shopping-lighting-20s-30s-40s-table-lamp shopping-lighting-20s-30s-40s-schoolhouse-pendant shopping-lighting-20s-30s-40s-ph-lamp-pendant lighting-design-lighting-pendant-light-table-lamp Here comes the sun pendant light (3) Artwork (on left) by Anya Pesce from M Contemporary. ‘Outa There’ painting (on right) by James Robertson. lighting-design-50s-60s-mid-century-mushroom-table-lamp-orange lighting-design-50s-60s-mid-century-dome-pendant-aluminium lighting-design-50s-60s-mid-century-saucer-pendant lighting-design-50s-60s-mid-century-aluminium lighting-design-70s-80s-arched-floor-lamp lighting-design-50s-60s-mid-century-saucer-similar-pendant lighting-design-lighting-pendant-floor-lamp-table-lamp lighting-design-susan-lambert-bond-university-phd lighting-design-50s-60s-mid-century-mushroom-table-lamp-gold lighting-design-70s-80s-table-lamp-desk-black lighting-design-70s-80s-saucer-pendant lighting-design-70s-80s-table-desk-lamp-gold lighting-design-70s-80s-desk-table-lamp-silver lighting-design-70s-80s-mushroom-lamp lighting-design-lighting-pendant-light lighting-design-90s-2000s-asymmetrical 278 Untitled design (31) lighting-design-90s-2000s-round lighting-design-lighting-lamps-lampshades lighting-design-2010s-now-brass-pendant lighting-design-2010s-now-neutral-table-lamp lighting-design-2010s-now-floor-lamp-tree-brass girlmore-girls-shopping-lamp lighting-design-2010s-now-table-lamp-rattan-base lighting-design-2010s-now-gold-brass-floor-lamp as seen in HB_4 homebeautiful-1282555
The sleek appliances on my wishlist just went on sale for Black Friday https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/best-black-friday-appliance-sales/ Wed, 19 Nov 2025 23:47:19 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1281559 It's time to take your wishlist to checkout.

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When it comes to appliances, I’m a firm believer that the best ones strike the perfect balance between practicality and good design; they make everyday routines smoother while still looking beautiful in your space. And with the best Black Friday appliance sales in full swing, there’s never been a better time to upgrade those hardworking essentials.

Whether you’re refreshing your kitchen, tackling home maintenance, or preparing for an easy, breezy summer, these are the deals worth knowing about. From energy-efficient fridges to sleek coffee machines and clever cleaning tech, I’ve collated a list of editor-approved picks that prove style and function can absolutely coexist.

What you need to know about 2025’s Black Friday appliance sales


The appliance brands we’re watching this Black Friday

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

If you’re looking for the best Black Friday appliance sales, it helps to have a few trusted brands on hand. If last year’s offerings are anything to go by, and they usually are, we’re expecting incredible deals from these crowd favourites. And here’s some extra good news: some inclusions have already launched early Black Friday deals.


Best large appliance deals

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to upgrade your kitchen or laundry, there’s no better time than Black Friday. From sleek fridges to energy-efficient washers, these large appliance deals make everyday living feel a little more effortless and a lot more stylish.

Product Image of the Westinghouse Refrigerator as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Westinghouse Refrigerator
$2999 $2330, Appliances Online

Product Image of the Smeg Victoria Freestanding Cooker as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Smeg Victoria Freestanding Cooker
$9490 $8067, Designer Appliances

Product Image of the Fisher & Paykel Series 9 Dishwasher as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Fisher & Paykel Series 9 Dishwasher
$2199 $1899, The Good Guys

Product Image of the Westinghouse Washing Machine as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Westinghouse Washing Machine
$949 $611, Appliances Online


Editor-approved small appliance picks

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. These small but mighty appliances combine form and function beautifully, proving that great design can fit neatly on your benchtop.

Product Image of the Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
$799 $699, KitchenAid

Product Image of the Smeg 50s Retro Style Kettle as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Smeg 50s Retro Style Kettle
$239 $178, The Good Guys

Product Image of the Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder
$999 $799, KitchenAid

Product Image of the Baccarat The Smart Chef Multicooker as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Baccarat The Smart Chef Multicooker
$399.99 $199.99, House


Top appliance deals for effortless home maintenance

A well-kept home doesn’t have to mean constant effort. From smart vacuums to powerful steam mops, these Black Friday finds take the hard work out of cleaning so you can spend more time enjoying your space.

Product Image of the Dreame L10S Ultra Gen2 Robot Vacuum as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Dreame L10S Ultra Gen2 Robot Vacuum
$2499 $599, Amazon

Product Image of the Winbot W2 PRO Omni Window Cleaner as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Winbot W2 PRO Omni Window Cleaner
$999 $599, Amazon

Product Image of the Roborock Q10V+ Robotic Vacuum as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Roborock Q10V+ Robotic Vacuum
$1299 $597, The Good Guys

Product Image of the Tineco FLOOR ONE S5 Plus as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Tineco FLOOR ONE S5 Plus
$799 $449, Tineco


The best appliance picks for comfortable summer living

Keep your cool as the weather warms up with appliances designed for easy summer days. Think quiet air purifiers, sleek bladeless fans and efficient air conditioners that make every corner of your home feel fresh and inviting.

Product Image of the Shark Turboblade Bladeless Tower Fan as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Shark Turboblade Bladeless Tower Fan
$499.99 $329, Amazon

Product Image of the Kogan Portable Air Conditioner as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Kogan Portable Air Conditioner
$1299.99 $599 for Kogan Members, Kogan

Product Image of the Breville Smart Air Viral Protect Night Glow Purifier as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Breville Smart Air Viral Protect Night Glow Purifier
$239 $191.20 for Myer One Members, Myer

Product Image of the Dyson TP09 Cool Air Purifier as part of the best Black Friday appliance sales

Dyson TP09 Cool Air Purifier
$1099 $882, Appliances Online


Explore our most popular Black Friday guides


Expert advice for smart appliance shopping

For the inside scoop on smarter appliance shopping this Black Friday, we turned to someone who knows the sale season better than most. According to James Bartlett, the General Manager of Appliances Online, there are some simple, actionable steps for avoiding buyer’s remorse and taking home the best deals. Here are his top tips to shop like a pro:
  1. Focus on value: Consider what’s included in that price or whether it’s just the product. For example, does the price include delivery?
    Check delivery times and service; look for retailers who can deliver promptly, especially if you need the appliance quickly.
  2. Look for hassle-free services: Services like old product removal, recycling, and installation can provide you with extra peace of mind (and convenience).
  3. End-to-end customer support: A good customer experience should begin from the moment you land on a website and extend until well after you’ve received your product. Look for a retailer that has 24/7 and after-sales support.
  4. Prioritise essentials and long-term use: Black Friday can be a great time to upgrade essential household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, or dryers. Choose models with high energy and water efficiency.

The post The sleek appliances on my wishlist just went on sale for Black Friday appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1281559 Westinghouse 564L French Quad Door Refrigerator Smeg 90cm Victoria Freestanding Cooker – Cream Fisher & Paykel Series 9, Contemporary Tall Single DishDrawer Dishwasher Westinghouse 8kg EasyCare 500 Front Load Washing Machine WWF8024M5WA Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer Smeg 50s Retro Style Kettle Black Friday apliance sale Semi Automatic Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder KitchenAid Black Friday Appliance Sale Baccarat The Smart Chef Multicooker 8L Silver dreame L10s Ultra Gen2 Robot Vacuum and Mop Black Friday Robot Vacuum Sale ECOVACS Winbot W2 PRO Omni Window Cleaner Robot Roborock Q10V+ Robotic Vacuum Tineco FLOOR ONE S5 Plus Black Friday vacuum sale Shark Turboblade Bladeless Tower Fan Kogan SmarterHome™ 4.1kW Inverter Portable Air Conditioner The Smart Air Viral Protect Night Glow Purifier Dyson TP09 Cool Air Purifier Formaldehyde WhiteGold h homebeautiful-1281559
How to find your design style https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/style-your-home-for-summer/ Wed, 19 Nov 2025 02:54:42 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/style-your-home-for-summer Cut through the trends and uncover your true interiors aesthetic.

The post How to find your design style appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Creating a home that feels authentically yours isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about uncovering what resonates with you. In a world saturated with inspiration, from Pinterest boards to showroom displays, the challenge is to cut through the noise and define a style that reflects your personality and lifestyle. Start by asking how you want your space to feel: calm, energising, grounded, or playful? Then, look for patterns in what you love — colours, textures, shapes — and let those guide your choices.

Your heritage, hobbies, and even favourite holidays can offer clues to a style that feels deeply personal. “Channel the essence of these influences into your decorating and you will create a home that is uniquely you, and feels as good as it looks,” says Elle Lovelock, Home Beautiful editor-in-chief.

Good design balances beauty with function, so choose pieces that support your lifestyle. (Credit: Oz Design)

“Begin by considering how you want your space to feel, rather than how it should look,” says Ally Gravemade, Brand and Content Executive at OZ Design. “Trends will shift, but creating a home that feels grounding, calm, inspired or energising is what endures. Notice the textures, colours and materials you’re naturally drawn to — the elements that feel familiar and instinctive. Collect these references slowly, and allow your style to emerge over time, rather than shaping it around what’s currently trending.”

Collect, organise and display your favourite colours, textures and finishes on a moodboard to guide your decorating journey.

Decorate for your own lifestyle

Form and function must work hand in hand. “Lifestyle is at the heart of good design,” says Ally. “The pieces you choose should support how you live — how you relax, host, work, and unwind. A beautiful space becomes meaningful when it feels effortless to move through. Choose pieces that support your day-to-day rhythm, then layer in personality through texture, décor, and styling.”

“Colour is the easiest way to unify your home. Carry a palette through from room to room for a cohesive look and feel.”

Elle Lovelock, Home Beautiful editor-in-chief

Common mistakes when defining your style

“There are no real mistakes in developing your style,” says Ally. “It is part of the journey. A common challenge, however, is rushing the process. Style grows and shifts with your life, your routines and your changing tastes. Avoid the urge to buy everything at once. Begin with foundation pieces that you genuinely love, and allow the rest to unfold gradually. This creates a home that feels curated, considered and uniquely yours, rather than cluttered or forced.”

Don’t rush it. Curate your interiors over time to ensure a timeless look. (Credit: Oz Design)

How to mix different styles

Consider whether your furniture is capturing the look and tone you’re after in each room. Something as simple as an occasional chair can send a strong message. “Find a common thread — colour tone, material, silhouette, or mood,” says Ally. “When pieces share a visual language, even if they come from different eras, they sit together naturally. Think of it as building harmony, not matching. Let one element lead, and allow the others to support it.” Don’t despair if something you love doesn’t work at first – consider shifting furniture from other spaces; replacing heavy chairs with rattan ones from the patio will deliver a conservatory-casual tone. Adding a textural rug in favour of bare boards in a bedroom or living space can instantly change the mood.

Californian-bungalow renovation main bedroom with curved bedhead, kmart linen, ceiling mouldings and marble fireplace, plus a light sconce
Layer contemporary pieces with heirloom items to personalise your home. (Credit: Photography: Pablo Veiga)

From showroom to home – how to make it yours

Ally’s go-to strategy for translating inspiration (from furniture showroom, Pinterest or magazine spreads) into a cohesive, personalised space? “Look for patterns in what inspires you,” she says. “Are you drawn to natural textures, sculptural forms, warm tones, or playful accents? Then, mirror those elements through key pieces in your home. Keep your palette consistent, repeat materials, and allow negative space to breathe. This is what transforms inspiration into something that feels thoughtful and cohesive.”

“Work with no more than three to four key tones, and repeat them throughout your rooms for flow and continuity.”

Ally Gravemade, Brand and Content Executive, OZ Design

Stick to your budget

While we’d all like to indulge in the latest furniture trends to land in showrooms, the key to longevity in personalising your home is to consider your must-haves above lust-haves. “Invest in your foundation pieces — your sofa, dining table, or bed,” says Ally. “These are the anchors of your everyday living and set the tone for the entire home. Then, layer with more affordable textural elements: rugs, cushions, lighting, and décor. This creates depth and personality without needing to replace everything at once.”

Shop with confidence



The post How to find your design style appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1016657 Osman_1344 copy_w1920 Harry_Jolie_1218 copy_w1920 Californian-bungalow-sydney-renovation-main-bedroom-curved-bedhead-kmart-linen-ceiling-mouldings-marble-fireplace-light-sconce Phoebe 2 Seater Sofa in Lola Glacier Tier Floor Lamp Flora Rug 300x400cm in Husk Osman Buffet 200cm in Concrete Render Mocha Reclaimed Teak homebeautiful-1016657
Be floored by rug queen Afsoon Kisirwani’s renovated Sydney terrace https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-tours/unitex-afsoon-kisirwani-sydney-terrace-renovation/ Tue, 18 Nov 2025 01:26:01 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282397 The light-filled heritage home was recently sold, smashing expectations.

The post Be floored by rug queen Afsoon Kisirwani’s renovated Sydney terrace appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Updating a traditional terrace-style house in Sydney’s Inner West comes with a few concerns and problems to solve. How to bring the light in? How to preserve the home’s beautiful heritage features? How to choose finishes and materials that will stand the test of time?

Afsoon Kisirwani, sales director of her family’s rug company, Unitex International, managed to tick all three boxes — and more — with the renovation of a characterful three-bedder a few years ago.

Unitex director Afsoon Kisirwani with her daughters and cavoodle dog in the kitchen of their Sydney home.
Afsoon and her daughters, with cavoodle Honey, in their kitchen and living space. (Photography: Janie Barrett / SMH)

The elegant house has been the perfect place for Afsoon and her husband Waz to raise their two daughters, now aged 10 and 12. And thanks to enduring selections and a tranquil neutral palette, the home looks like it was renovated yesterday.

“We wanted the house to feel timeless, so we leaned towards natural materials and textures and muted tones,” says Afsoon. “We were conscious of making design choices that would age beautifully.”

Front of a white Victorian terrace-style house with black fretwork and a garden hedge.
Afsoon’s heritage terrace-style home in Sydney’s Inner West has main-character energy. (Image: Supplied)
Front door and porch of a white and black Victorian house terrace-style house with a garden hedge and tesselated tiles.
The frontage of the restored Victorian-era house features original fretwork and tesselated tiles. (Image: Supplied)

Having been to countless open-home inspections back in 2014 when they were looking for their dream property, Afsoon and Waz knew what they wanted in a fixer-upper.

“I remember the day we found this over-100-year-old Victorian beauty in Enmore,” recalls Afsoon. “We were ready to call it quits when, one Saturday, we decided to visit ‘just one more’. As soon as we walked in, we knew it was the one.

It was the day of the auction, and we managed to outbid the other parties! The real estate agent gave us an hour to come back with a cheque. It was a whirlwind.”

Family room or casual living room in the extension of a Victorian-era house in Sydney, with white furniture and a mauve rug.
Architect James Pedersen designed a breezy extension several years ago that still feels contemporary. (Image: Supplied)
Family room or casual living room in the extension of a Victorian-era house in Sydney, with white furniture, a fireplace, artwork and a mauve rug.
As the national sales director of her family business, Unitex International, Afsoon has fabulous taste in rugs and decor. (Image: Supplied)

The renovation

Afsoon and Waz collaborated with James Pedersen, principal of Pedersen Architecture, to give the tired two-storey, terrace-style house a modern, airy extension and to infuse it with more light — without compromising on its classic Victorian charm.

“With thoughtful touches like a wooden balcony off our bedroom and expansive windows throughout, James truly understood our vision, enhancing the original charm while adding a contemporary style,” explains Afsoon. “We also wanted to bring warmth into every corner with natural materials like Italian marble benchtops and limestone fireplaces.”

White and marble kitchen with brown bar stools.
The marble kitchen has served Afsoon and her family well. ‘Vogue’ bar stools, B2C Furniture. (Image: Supplied)
Close-up view of a marble kitchen splashback, stovetop and rangehood, with marble kitchen island bench in foreground.
A marble splashback and kitchen island benchtop elevate this generous kitchen, which features double ovens. (Image: Supplied)

High ceilings and as much natural light as possible were top of Afsoon’s list. She also coveted functional zones that still felt connected and spaces that work just as well for daily family life as they do for entertaining.

“Retaining the original fireplaces and cornices was a must; we love the old-world craftsmanship and authenticity they bring. Plants were really important, too. One of the first things we did was put in a vertical garden that drapes the wall of the internal courtyard. It adds so much character and feels like a living artwork.”

Backyard timber deck and barbecue area with a tropical garden and outdoor dining table and chairs.
With a timber deck, tropical garden and outdoor kitchen, Afsoon has created the backyard of our dreams. (Image: Supplied)

Afsoon’s fave features

When pressed to choose her home’s highlights, Afsoon says she “absolutely loves” the marble kitchen island benchtop. “We wondered whether it would work in a family context, and luckily, we have found it to be both sculptural and practical,” she says. “The natural veining brings movement and softness to the space, and it catches the light beautifully throughout the day.” 

The commanding dining table is her favourite furniture piece. Made from recycled pine wood, it’s full of character and texture. “We’ve shared so many wonderful celebrations around that table. It’s also strong enough to withstand endless craft projects and glue-gun sessions!” 

White formal dining room with a fireplace in a Victorian terrace-style house, featuring a timber dining table and blush-pink dining chairs.
The formal dining room is comfy and inviting. For a similar dining table and chairs, try GlobeWest. (Image: Supplied)
White formal living room with a bay window in a Victorian terrace-style house, featuring brown and rust-coloured furniture and decor.
This classic Victorian-era house features a grand formal living room with a fairytale bay window. (Image: Supplied)

Best renovation advice

Afsoon, whose family rug business celebrated 30 years this year, quotes seminal designer William Morris when sharing her best renovation advice: ‘Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.’

“It’s a simple sentiment that still defines how we live here today,” she says.

Contemporary bathroom featuring biege tiles and a freestanding bathtub in a Sydney house.
“Find a builder and designer who really listen… the right team will help you balance beauty and practicality,” says Afsoon. (Image: Supplied)

“Be realistic about how your family actually lives — design for that. There’s no point creating rooms that look perfect but can’t handle everyday life.”

Afsoon Kisirwani

Be patient and plan thoughtfully, says Afsoon. “If possible, live in the space before making major decisions. Heritage homes reveal themselves slowly. Choose materials that will age gracefully, and avoid short-term trends. Surround yourself with professionals who understand your vision and respect the home’s history.” 

Contemporary main bedroom with black window frames and decor with an earthy palette.
An earthy palette and garden outlook make this bedroom a true escape. (Image: Supplied)
Kids' bedroom in a Sydney Victorian-era terrace-style house with two beds decorated with an earthy palette.
A light, bright and calming kids’ bedroom featuring a round jute rug. (Image: Supplied)

The Kisirwani family are moving on from their lovingly reimagined home — potentially to a new renovation project. They recently sold the house ahead of its scheduled auction for $4.31 million, well above the price guide of $3.5 million.

According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Afsoon and Waz have purchased another period home in the Eastern Suburbs. We can’t wait to see what they do with it.

Unitex director Afsoon Kisirwani with her daughters and cavoodle dog in the kitchen and living room of their Sydney home.
The Inner West gem is purpose-built for growing families. (Photography: Janie Barrett / SMH)

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7 festive door ideas for the Christmas season https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/festive-door-ideas-for-the-christmas-season/ Mon, 17 Nov 2025 23:28:18 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282355 Door decoration that goes beyond the wreath.

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The front door is our favourite place to make a festive first impression, and it doesn’t have to involve a traditional wreath. From fragrant foliage and whimsical florals to ribbons, bells and pine cones, there are countless ways to deck your doorway in seasonal style.

It might even be the perfect time to adorn your door with a fresh coat of paint. Here, we’ve matched Wattyl’s most beautiful hues with decorative touches to ring in the holidays in style – and keep the cheer shining long after the season ends.

7 festive door ideas for the Christmas season

1. Hanging foliage

(Credit: Photography: Lauren Trompp/ Styling: Kate Lincoln )

The look: This festive door evokes evergreen elegance, with mixed foliage, pops of berries and a crisp white bow that hints at mistletoe mischief. A merry moss-coloured coat of Wattyl Baldrick Green brings the look to life, resulting in a joyful entrance ready for the season’s celebrations.

Styling tip: Hanging seasonal greenery adds a festive touch without the formality of a traditional wreath. To prolong the freshness of your arrangement, trim the stems regularly and put them in fresh water. Misting the foliage daily can also help maintain its vitality.

The materials: To create this abundant bunch, Susan Avery Flowers and Events combined conifer, preserved ming fern and moss foliage with red Hypericum berries. A length of ribbon neatly conceals the wire or twine used to bind the stems and makes it easy to hang.

2. A bright berry wreath

Berry wreath on white door.
(Credit: Photography: Lauren Trompp/ Styling: Kate Lincoln )

The look: A red berry wreath and velvet bow in traditional red tones bring festive charm to any entrance, while twinkling lights among the berries keep the magic alive after the sun has set. Combined with a door finished in Wattyl Paper White, it’s sure to get everyone’s attention – even Santa.

Styling tip: Opt for a monochromatic wreath to create a striking, modern look. The bold crimson pops beautifully against a white door or facade. Keeping the design simple without extra greenery or mixed colours ensures it feels clean, stylish and effortlessly festive – no tinsel required.

The materials: Pre-lit with warm white lights, the Alfresco Emporium ‘Red Berry Wreath’, $149/75cm, brings bold colour with dense berry clusters. The burgundy velvet ribbon with satin backing from My Christmas, $34.95/3.8cm wide x 9.10 metres, is fastened to the top with a flourish.

3. Hanging pine cones

(Credit: Photography: Lauren Trompp/ Styling: Kate Lincoln )

The look: Pine cones hung from this smart knocker bring a yuletide touch with a nod to Northern Hemisphere sensibilities. Silver and denim ribbons create sleek lines against the door in Wattyl Cotswold, conjuring a winter forest mood. You can almost smell the crisp pine and spice of gingerbread.

Styling tip: You don’t need a perfect arrangement to make a jolly impact. Group an odd number of pine cones for a look that feels thoughtfully curated. Tie ribbons around the grooves of each cone and let them drape naturally — it’s an easy, cost-conscious way to create a festive display.

The materials: Pine cones sourced from Parrot Supplies Australia, $3.50/set of 3 (currently unavailable) are teamed with silver ribbon from Amazon, $15.99, and denim silk ribbon, $25.95/3m, Bespoke Letterpress. These hang from the ‘Ring’ door knocker in Distressed Nickel, $139, Iver.

4. A joyful bow

(Credit: Photography: Lauren Trompp/ Styling: Kate Lincoln )

The look: A large striped fabric bow makes a striking statement against a door in Wattyl Forest Felt. The look is classic with a twist — playful enough for the silly season, but elegant enough to keep up long after the tree comes down… or at least until the Easter eggs appear.

Styling tip: To create this look, a little deft arranging of fabric goes a long way. Use a hot glue gun and a few discreet pipe cleaners to hold the waves and sharp edges in place. You’ll feel as crafty as Santa’s elves when you hang it proudly out front and step back to admire your handiwork.

The materials: For the bow fabric, we selected Calverton R fabric in Marine from Warwick. A ‘Sarlat’ door knocker in Brushed Brass, $274, Iver, and ABI Interiors numbers in matching metallics, $59.90 each, add the final polish – proof that even Santa appreciates good hardware.

5. Christmas bells

(Credit: Photography: Lauren Trompp/ Styling: Kate Lincoln )

The look: Simple lengths of greenery paired with twinkling bells and frayed ribbon create a rustic, homespun charm against a door painted in Wattyl Puffin Watch – a soft, light blue. It’s laidback yet festive, the kind of decoration that might even make the reindeer pause for a closer look.

Styling tip: When creating this arrangement, gather greenery from nature — olive branches, eucalyptus or whatever you have on hand will do. As the foliage dries it adds even more character. Mismatched bells and raw twine help it feel intentionally effortless and full of holiday personality.

The materials: The giant metal hanging bell, $14.95/9.5cm, and star bell ornament, $9.95/10cm, both from Alfresco Emporium make us want to jingle all the way. They’re paired with a ‘Chuqing’ satin silk ribbon in Beige, $19.19, Amazon, and complemented with a bunch of olive branches.

6. A floral wreath

(Credit: Photography: Lauren Trompp/ Styling: Kate Lincoln )

The look: A wreath bursting with vibrant florals offers a fresh, non-traditional take on festive decor. When paired with a door painted in the eye-catching Wattyl Kuduk, the bold colours really pop, creating a cheerful and unexpected statement that will make even the Grinch swoon.

Styling tip: For guests to enjoy it in all its glory, order or prepare the wreath and hang it as close to your celebrations as you can. Like wrapping paper for your home, it’s enjoyed for a short time, but that fleeting beauty is what makes it all the more special — and so worth it.

The materials: This festive wreath, created by Grandiflora, combines a vibrant mix of roses, guelder rose, banksia roses, azaleas, Alstroemeria, Ranunculus and Phalaenopsis orchids. Its rollicking palette, finished with a casual length of pink ribbon, exudes modern joy and cheerful charm.

7. A basket of flowers

(Credit: Photography: Lauren Trompp/ Styling: Kate Lincoln )

The look: An arrangement that looks like a bike basket overflowing with flowers after a morning at the Parisian markets. Set against a door painted in Wattyl Paper White, it inspires a festive Christmas breakfast of crisp, buttery pastries and brings a little extra joie de vivre to your entrance.

Styling tip: To keep a hanging basket of fresh flowers looking vibrant, add a small container of water at the bottom and refresh it regularly. Trim the stems every few days to help the blooms stay lively or replace with new varieties as you please throughout the season.

The materials: A rectangular hanging basket from Florabelle (find similar at Pottery Barn) is suspended using an adjustable gold wreath hanger (39–64cm), $19.90, from Real Christmas Trees, and finished with a light blue ribbon. It’s filled with softly gathered bunches of hellebores

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Bonnie and Neil’s Black Friday sale is offering maximalist home staples at minimal prices https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/black-friday/bonnie-and-neil-black-friday-sale/ Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:28:04 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282154 Grab 20-30% off your favourite colourful homewares

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The interiors experts have spoken: maximalist interiors are back in (case in point: Chyka Keebaugh’s Melbourne penthouse, this popular Tasmanian Airbnb and the return of wallpaper). But that doesn’t mean you need to overhaul your home; you can get in on the trend by simply adding some colourful homewares, like a floral print quilt, pink rug or sky blue side table.

Fortunately, a go-to for maximalist homewares brand here in Australia; Melbourne-based brand Bonnie and Neil, are starting their Black Friday sale early, with 20% to 30% off their entire range from Friday, November 14 to Tuesday, December 2. That’s a whole two weeks to decide what colours and patterns in homewares form to bring into your space.

“Our pieces are made to enrich everyday rituals, whether it’s layering cushions on the sofa or setting a table for loved ones,” says Bonnie Ashley, co-founder of the brand. “We rarely go sitewide with our offers, so this Black Friday is an exciting way for customers to bring a little more Bonnie and Neil into their homes before the festive season.”

Ashley started the brand with her husband Neil Downie in 2010, first releasing a screen-printed bird on a tablecloth. That piece has grown into collections for the kitchen and dining room, bathroom, bedroom and outdoors, available online and at stockists in Australia, New Zealand, the US, Europe and Asia.

Not sure what to shop from Bonnie and Neil’s Black Friday Sale? Here’s our edit of the best pieces for your living room, bedroom and kitchen.

Home Beautiful’s Black Friday Guides


Bonnie and Neil sale picks for the bedroom

Product image of Bonnie and Neil Pedestal Side Table, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Pedestal Side Table Soft Blue
$395 $276, Bonnie and Neil

Product image of Bonnie and Neil Buttercup Olive Multi Linen Quilted Throw, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Buttercup Olive Multi Linen Quilted Throw
$495 $396, Bonnie and Neil

Product image of Bonnie and Neil Linear Candy Linen Cushion, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Linear Candy Linen Cushion
$129 $87.20, Bonnie and Neil

Product image of Bonnie and Neil Stripe Orange Linen Fitted Sheet, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Stripe Orange Linen Fitted Sheet
$279 $223.20, Bonnie and Neil


Bonnie and Neil sale picks for the living room


Product image of Bonnie and Neil Boucle Stripe Olive Pouffe, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Boucle Stripe Olive Pouffe
$399 $279.30, Bonnie and Neil

Product image of Bonnie and Neil The Tan Curation Cushions, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

The Tan Curation Cushions
$875 $700, Bonnie and Neil

Product image of Bonnie and Neil Wave Side Table Speckle Mint, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Wave Side Table Speckle Mint
$395 $276.50, Bonnie and Neil


Bonnie and Neil sale picks for the kitchen


Product image of Bonnie and Neil Pansies Multi Table Cloth, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Pansies Multi Tablecloth
$390 $232, Bonnie and Neil

Product image of Bonnie and Neil Enamel Rose Salad Servers, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Enamel Rose Salad Servers
$79 $63.20, Bonnie and Neil

Product image of Bonnie and Neil Fantasia Cutlery Set, as part of 2025 Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale

Fantasia Cutlery Set: Light Blue
$72 $57.60, Bonnie and Neil


Explore other Black Friday Sales



When does the Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale start?

The Bonnie and Neil Black Friday sale runs from Friday, November 14, to Tuesday, December 2, with 20% to 30% off its entire range. That gives you two weeks to decide what colours and patterns you’d like to weave into your space.

What discounts will Bonnie and Neil offer this Black Friday?

The brand is offering 20% to 30% off items from all of its collections, including cushions, living room and bathroom rugs and side tables.

Which Bonnie and Neil items should I buy during Black Friday?

For an effortless way to reinvent your interiors, opt for new couch cushions, bedding, or glassware to add colour and playfulness to your everyday. However, if you have a wishlist item you’ve been dreaming of (but couldn’t justify the price), prioritise these; you never know when your next opportunity to enjoy 30% off Bonnie and Neil homewares may arise.


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


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1282154 Quad Products (7) Quad Products Quad Products Quad Products (1) Quad Products Quad Products Quad Products Quad Products Quad Products Quad Products (1) Quad Products (2) Quad Products Split image, on one side, a home with spotless hardwood flooring, on the other, a selection of the best robot vacuum black friday sale deals Interiors of a modern minimalist kitchen and dining area Split Image, on the left, the Koala Torquay Modular Sofa, and on the left, the Koala Kirribilli Bed Frame, as part of the Koala Black Friday Sale 2025 homebeautiful-1282154
My wishlist sofa is now $3000 off from James Lane’s Black Friday sale https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/black-friday/james-lane-black-friday-sale/ Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:16:28 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282254 Discounts range from 30% to 60% off

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Sofas can cost a pretty penny, but considering how much we use them, they’re worth the investment. Even if we’re not using them to sit, lay or sleep, they almost always anchor the décor in a room, giving us a base to expand on with homewares and other furniture.

Currently, James Lane is offering thousands of dollars of savings on its sofas through its Black Friday Sale. This monumental sales event is their biggest of the year, with sitewide discounts ranging from 30% to 60% off.

Your sale snapshot

In short, James Lane’s Black Friday furniture sale offers savings of up to several thousand dollars. If you’ve been wanting to upgrade your furniture, grab some holiday gifts or spruce up some rooms with new homewares, be sure to take advantage of these massive discounts.


Explore other Black Friday Sales


Advice for shoppers

The Black Friday discounts don’t extend to delivery, which is still full price. That said, if you can pick up your piece at a James Lane warehouse yourself, you could save on pricey delivery charges. Click and Collect is offered at James Lane Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide warehouses. And if you anticipate having trouble putting your James Lane furniture together, it’s worth booking their Assembly Service too, an add-on offered by the delivery team; this also includes them getting rid of all packaging rubbish.


What to shop from James Lane’s Black Friday sale

James Lane’s furniture and homewares are well-made and in timeless designs, so whatever you buy, know that it will last for years. If you can only afford one or two new pieces, also know that simple upgrades can completely change a room’s look and make it seem fresh. Also worth noting: the Black Friday deals are all available now and likely won’t change throughout the sale period, but they’re only available while stocks last. If you’re keen on a specific piece, it’s worth buying it as soon as you can to avoid missing out.


Keen for even more Black Friday shopping?


When does the James Lane Black Friday sale start?

James Lane’s Black Friday sale started Thursday, November 6. Every piece on their site is discounted 30-60% off.

How long will James Lane’s Black Friday sale last?

James Lane’s Black Friday sale ends Wednesday, December 3, though it’s only while stock lasts. If you’re eyeing a particular discounted piece, we suggest you don’t wait until towards the end of the sale to buy it, as it might be sold out.

What discounts will James Lane offer this Black Friday?

James Lane’s Black Friday Sale sees discounts of 30-60% off its entire site. Dining chairs and tables are 40-60% off, bed frames are 50-60% off, and sofas are also 50-60% off. However, the discounts aren’t on delivery, so it’s worth checking the shipping cost before committing to the buy.

Which James Lane items should I buy during Black Friday?

James Lane’s furniture and homewares are sturdy and in timeless designs, so whatever you buy, know that it will last for years. If you can’t afford several new pieces, also know that just one or two, like a dining table or sofa, can completely change a room’s look and help to make it seem fresh.

How can I get the best deals during James Lane’s 2025 Black Friday sale?

The deals are all available now and likely won’t change throughout the sale period, but they’re only while stocks last. If you’re keen on a specific piece, it’s worth buying it as soon as you can to avoid missing out.


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

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1282254 Quad Products (6) Quad Products (7) Quad Products Quad Products (1) Product image of James Lane Tully Muse Sofa, as part of the 2025 Black Friday sale Quad Products (3) Quad Products (1) Quad Products homebeautiful-1282254
My dream Balsam Hill Christmas tree is now $950 off thanks to this 2-day sale https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/christmas/balsam-hill-artificial-christmas-tree-sale/ Wed, 12 Nov 2025 02:14:09 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282185 Enjoy up to 40% off some of their most popular Christmas trees

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While I love the idea of bringing home a real Christmas tree each year, having a live pine in the house comes with its downsides. Between cleaning up pine needles, keeping my dog from nibbling branches, ensuring that my mild pine allergy is kept at bay, and navigating the yearly struggle of keeping a live Christmas tree from browning before the 25th, I’ve come to the conclusion that they’re simply more trouble than they’re worth. That’s why, in 2025, I’ve been wishing for one of Balsam Hill’s hyper-realistic Christmas trees, and with their limited-time sale, their widely-loved festive foliage finally fits my budget.

The details


Artificial Christmas tree deals for every holiday decorator

Whether you’re keeping your Christmas decorations traditional or opting for a trendy coastal or white Christmas aesthetic, Balsam Hill’s artificial Christmas tree sale offers great savings on options to suit every taste.

Product Image of the pre-lit Monterey Pine Flip tree, as part of Home Beautiful's list of the best artificial Christmas trees from Balsam Hill's sale

Monterey Pine Flip Tree
$2699 $1749, Balsam Hill

Product Image of the Pre-lit Canadian Spruce tree, as part of Home Beautiful's list of the best artificial Christmas trees from Balsam Hill's sale

Pre-lit Canadian Spruce Tree
$1399 $829, Balsam Hill

Product Image of the pre-lit Classic White tree, as part of Home Beautiful's list of the best artificial Christmas trees from Balsam Hill's sale

Pre-lit Classic White Tree
$1199 $719, Balsam Hill

Product Image of the Berkshire Mountain Fir tree, as part of Home Beautiful's list of the best artificial Christmas trees from Balsam Hill's sale

Berkshire Mountain Fir Trees
$799 $479, Balsam Hill


How to take home additional savings

While the generous discounts are more than enough to inspire Christmas-enthusiasts like myself to take home a brand new artificial tree, there are even more savings to be enjoyed during Balsam Hill’s sale. Look out for sale items offering free delivery (as large items can be a little pricey to have shipped). You’ll be able to see the ‘Free Delivery’ note under discounted prices when you visit Balsam Hill’s sale page.

And if you love a certain style from Balsam Hill’s range of artificial Christmas trees, but can’t quite justify the price, play around with the different customisation options to see how much you can save. For instance, the 244cm Pre-lit Monterey Pine Flip Tree is currently on sale for $2,129, but if you opt for the same tree without the built-in lights or flip function, it’s $1079; you don’t even have to size down to save $1000.

If you still need a little help deciding on the right tree for you, check out this tree buyers’ guide, or take Balsam Hill’s quiz to be matched to your perfect artificial Christmas tree in just a few minutes.


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

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1282185 Monterey Pine Flip Tree Balsam Hill Best Artificial Christmas Tree sale Balsam Hill Pre-lit Canadian Spruce Tree Best Artificial Christmas tree sale Balsam Hil Artificial Christmas Tree sale Classic White Trees Berkshire Mountain Fir Trees Balsam Hill Best Artificial Christmas Trees sale homebeautiful-1282185
The luxe palette redefining festive outdoor entertaining https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/outdoor-christmas-decor/ Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:32:08 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1282128 Celebrate the season under the sun with crisp palettes, shimmering accents, and effortless elegance.

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While the Northern Hemisphere dreams of snow, we’re setting tables poolside, surrounded by lush gardens and warm breezes. For those who love to entertain with style, this season is all about elevating tradition with a fresh, contemporary twist. Think crisp green and white palettes that nod to heritage, layered with bold stripes, shimmering metallics and sparkling glassware for that festive edge.

It’s the perfect backdrop for long lunches that stretch into golden evenings, where conversation flows as freely as the champagne. Whether you’re reinventing heirloom pieces or adding playful pops of colour, the key is effortless elegance – a look that feels curated yet relaxed.

Ready to inspire your next celebration? Here’s how to create a chic outdoor setting that captures the spirit of Christmas and the beauty of an Australian summer.

Chocolates, from left Dark Chocolate Bell (green) and Milk Chocolate Bell (gold), $16.90 each/90g; Dark Chocolate Baubles Bon Bons (green) and Milk Chocolate Baubles Bon Bons (cream), $23.90 each/175g; Opulent Truffle Gift Box (round green box on plate), $44.90/150g; Dark Chocolate Squares Bundles, $5.90 each/30g; Milk Chocolate Pistachio and Cherry Nougat Gift Box, $21.90/190g; Milk Speckles Gift Tin (in background), $18.50/100g, all Haigh’s Chocolates. On table, from left Perrier Sparkling Natural Mineral Water, $10.99/pack of 4, Umall. Emerald green ruffle scallop lamp shades and silver bases, $239 each, Luxe & Beau. ‘Renee’ silver vase, $99.95/small, and ‘Dom’ glass vase, $79.95/medium, both Country Road. Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Vintage Champagne, $349.99/750ml, Dan Murphy’s. (Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

“Choose a theme for your festive celebration,” says Home Beautiful editor-in-chief Elle Lovelock. Colour is a strong driver to bring a whole look together. “Green and white nods to tradition, but here we’ve elevated the palette to suit a contemporary setting – bold striped outdoor chair cushions lend a chic poolhouse feel, while shimmering metallics and gleaming crystal add the festive sparkle needed to mark a celebration.”

“Consider all five senses when creating your table setting and environment,” says stylist Nonci Nyoni. “Curate an inviting atmosphere that your guests will want to spend time in – candles or flowers for scent and visual interest, background music and lush fabrics of varied textures for touch and of course, a tasty meal!”

“Use objects of various height’s to add interest to the tablescape – lamps or candles for height paired with shorter vases, glassware and decorative bowls,” says stylist Nonci Nyoni.

“My mum just loves this the green and white setting, she has green plates but has been inspired to go out and buy another dinner set to style up with them.”

Elle Lovelock, Home Beautiful editor in chief
“Choose a colour palette of 3-5 colours to work within for all the homewares pieces you’ll use in your table setting,” says Nonci Nyoni. (Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Nonci suggests personalising each plate setting with handwritten name cards, “To make them feel extra special this festive season!” Elle agrees. “Reinvent your vintage homewares like plates and napery by mixing and matching with more modern pieces,” says Elle. “Extend the season’s treats to each place setting with individual chocolate gifts for everyone. Each year we wait with bated breath to discover the bonbon offerings from our favourite brands. These are another festive addition to the table with colour, pattern and texture.

“Heirloom plates play nicely with pops of coloured glass and fun décor pieces.”

Elle Lovelock
“Don’t clutter the table with too many items to allow guests to interact freely with each other across the table and be able to easily reach for things during the meal,” says Nonci. (Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Nothing says summer sophistication quite like fresh flowers. “Blousy white roses are always a good idea,” says Elle. “Garden roses are in full bloom at this time of year and you can buy them by the bucketload at market – a surefire way to add elegance to any occasion.” Cluster them in simple glass vases for a relaxed look or pair with silver accents for a touch of glamour. Whether scattered along a long lunch table or arranged in generous bunches, seasonal blooms add instant elegance and a sense of occasion that feels both timeless and fresh.

Take your decor theme as far as possible throughout your entertaining spaces. (Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

Beyond the table, consider editing the decor in your entertaining spaces to reflect your chosen theme. Ditch cushions that don’t match, take the plunge to invest in new outdoor furniture cushions, outdoor rugs or umbrellas.

Bonus point if your dog matches your decor! (Credit: Photography: Brigid Arnott / Styling: Nonci Nyoni)

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1282128 Christmas-table-styling-coastal-outdoor-entertaining Christmas-table-styling-coastal-formal-green-white-scheme-roses-linen Christmas-table-styling-formal-green-white-scheme-floral Christmas-styling-outdoor-entertaining-coastal-bar-cart-umbrella Christmas-styling-coastal-poolside-lounges-umbrella-dog homebeautiful-1282128
Tour a striking Mediterranean-style coastal home in Sydney https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-tours/mediterranean-style-coastal-home-sydney/ Mon, 10 Nov 2025 02:55:52 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1281996 Every day feels like a holiday in this special home, tailor-made for downsizers.

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Keen to downsize, Justine and Andrew sold their family home with a lengthy settlement of six months to allow plenty of time for them to find the next place. With just seven weeks left before this period was up, Justine found a four-bedroom home for sale 600 metres away in a beachside suburb of southern Sydney.

“Andy was out surfing and by the time he came home, I was running out the door to see it,” recalls Justine. “We both saw the potential in it immediately.”

The location held special significance for Justine and Andrew, who had previously owned a home on the same street when their two daughters were little.

Exterior of a large white Mediterranean house on the coast of Sydney
This new build in Sydney ticks all the boxes for couple Justine and Andrew. “From the beginning, I dreamed of a statement entrance, a seamless indoor-outdoor flow from the kitchen, and the walk-in wardrobe of my dreams,” says Justine. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

Planning the rebuild

As soon as the place was theirs, Justine called her best friend Ky Drury, founder of interior-design firm Studio Haus Co, who helped hone the vision for a modern Mediterranean-style home. “Like most projects, navigating council approvals took longer than expected, particularly given the home’s large footprint,” says Ky.

It was a team effort, with Lowi Interiors taking care of the spatial planning, Studio Haus Co overseeing material selections and styling, and Pro Design Building managing the build. Rebuilding rather than renovating allowed them to completely transform the home’s functionality and aesthetic.

Owners Justine and Andrew in the kitchen of their coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic.
“This space is truly the heart of the home,” says owner Justine (pictured with husband Andrew). The kitchen features ‘Owan’ pendants from MCM House and the stools are from Coco Republic. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

Style behind the design

To embrace a modern Mediterranean style, Justine maximised the home’s natural light with soaring living area ceilings up to four metres high and designed the spaces to create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The open-plan dining, living and kitchen zones provide places for spreading out and coming together, while the bedrooms and bathrooms feature luxury furnishings and tactile finishes to cement their haven-like status.

Kitchen in a Sydney coastal house with a neutral Mediterranean aesthetic featuring a stone kitchen island bench and exposed ceiling beams.
The kitchen has ‘Navurban’ veneer joinery in The Oaks, Dekton benchtops and a Sensa quartzite island in Taj Mahal, both from Cosentino. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

Renovation budget breakdown

Justine and Andrew had a budget in mind for this rebuild, but admit that, like many projects during the Covid period, this figure blew out slightly due to supply chain challenges and material availability.

The overall total spend of $1,120,000 covered approximately $50,000 in demolition costs, $396,000 for the building, plumbing and electrical works, $142,000 for the luxe steel doors, $200,000 for joinery, $45,000 for the architect, $60,000 for interior consultations, $21,000 for the home’s tapware, $40,000 for the appliances and $20,000 for the landscaping, which Andrew did himself.

“We made a last-minute decision to upgrade to porcelain benchtops, which added to the cost, but the result was worth it and the finished product exceeded our expectations,” shares Justine.

Formal dining room in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic featuring leather Balinese pendant lights and rustic mirrors.
Huge leather pendant lights sourced from Bali make a statement in the formal dining zone. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

Living and dining

Upon entering the home, visitors’ eyes are drawn to the dramatic four-metre-high ceilings with exposed beams. The formal dining area makes a statement with a Casa Blanco ‘Bullet’ dining table and Croft House ‘Sierra’ chairs, a ‘Willow’ rug from Armadillo, custom leather pendants sourced from Bali and a Coco Republic mirror. An artwork by Sophia Lind rests on the shelves above the bar area.

The living space is designed for comfort and entertaining with two ‘Sidney Slouch’ chaises from Globe West, an Armadillo ‘Corsica’ rug and a Casa Blanco ‘Palazzo’ rectangle coffee table around the Paul Agnew Designs fireplace. “Mercadier Cocomilk microcement features on the built-in seating, entertainment unit and shelving, adding texture and cohesion,” says Ky.

The kitchen’s Bora S Pure Induction Cooktop with Integrated Extractor also gets a nod, while Andrew enjoys the statement Paul Agnew Designs fireplace. “Coming home to our new place fills us with so much joy.”

Living and dining room of Sydney coastal house with a Mediterranean aesthetic, featuring a wood fireplace.
A freestanding wood fireplace services both the formal dining room and the living area. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

The sign of a well-executed project is when the homeowner declares, “It’s hard to choose just one favourite thing!” But when pressed, Justine names a few highlights. “I adore my walk-in wardrobe – it’s divine and even has built-in speakers, making getting ready a joy,” she says.

The window seat in the walk-in wardrobe is upholstered in Mokum ‘Pueblo’ jute fabric from James Dunlop Textiles, and the ‘Fikile’ chair is from Uniqwa Collections. 

Dressing table in the walk-in robe of a Sydney coastal house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic
Homeowner Justine’s walk-in robe and dressing table are luxurious, even featuring built-in speakers. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

Renovation lessons learnt

While this wasn’t the first home that Justine and Andrew have built together, they were reminded of the importance of surrounding themselves with the right people. “Having our dream team in place meant no costly mistakes and the process felt collaborative rather than stressful,” says Justine.

“Along the way, the inevitable challenges were quickly resolved because everyone was just a phone call away.” Being flexible helped as well, as it meant the couple were able to quickly make alternative decisions when things weren’t going to plan.

Alfresco outdoor entertaining zone at a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic.
Every day feels like a holiday at this special Mediterranean-influenced home. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

The abode’s relaxed living zones flow outside, where an outdoor kitchen and alfresco meals area are made for entertaining. The dining table and chairs are from Uniqwa Collections. Cushions from Eadie Lifestyle dot the built-in seating for added comfort.

Styled timber bookshelves in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic.
Cabinets by Trend Joinery display keepsakes in the kitchen. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

“He loves spending time in the garden, while I love cooking, so it’s a house that truly suits both our passions.” — Justine, homeowner

Bedrooms and bathrooms

A ‘Scala’ bath from ABI Interiors takes pride of place in the main ensuite bathroom. Studio Haus Co selected bejmat natural clay floor tiles from Di Lorenzo Tiles, and the vanity is in Mercadier microcement in Cocomilk and Dekton from Cosentino.

Main ensuite bathroom in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic featuring ABI Interiors freestanding bathtub and natural clay floor tiles.
With natural finishes and a freestanding tub, the main ensuite is a real escape. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

The downstairs bathroom sports ‘Superclassica SCB Beige’ floor tiles from House of Surfaces and ‘Bianca Casa’ mini bejmat wall tiles from Di Lorenzo Tiles. The wall lights were sourced from Gypset Cargo. 

Main bathroom in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic featuring bejmat wall tiles.
The main downstairs bathroom offers day-spa vibes. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

Plush textures, such as in the Ravello bed linen, reign in the bedroom. ‘Cloud’ pendants from Ochre & Silk and a Uniqwa Collections ‘Sweni’ bench continue the look.

Bedroom in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic.
This bedroom is calming and cosy. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)
Walk-in robe in a coastal Sydney Mediterranean-style house featuring rattan cupboard doors and a jewellery display cabinet.
Rattan doors by Trend Joinery and a beautiful jewellery display case are features of the walk-in robe. (Photography: Louise Roche | Styling: Dakota Drury)

Source Book

Material selection & styling Studio Haus Co, studiohausco.com
Spatial planning
Lowi Interiors, lowi.com.au
Builder Pro Design Building, prodesignbuilding.com.au

Joinery Trend Joinery, trendjoinery.com.au

Microcement Bespoke Plaster Finishes, bespokeplasterfinishes.au

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1281996 Exterior of a large white Mediterranean house on the coast of Sydney Owners-Justine-Andrew-of-Sydney-mediterranean-style-coastal-home Kitchen in a Sydney coastal house with a neutral Mediterranean aesthetic featuring a stone kitchen island bench and exposed ceiling beams. Formal dining room in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic featuring leather Balinese pendant lights and rustic mirrors. Living and dining room of Sydney coastal house with a Mediterranean aesthetic, featuring a wood fireplace. Dressing table in the walk-in robe of a Sydney coastal house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic Alfresco outdoor entertaining zone at a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic. Styled timber bookshelves in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic. Sydney-mediterranean-coastal-home-beige-neutral-interiors-bathroom Main bathroom in a coastal Sydney house with a neutral, beige Mediterranean aesthetic featuring bejmat wall tiles. Sydney-mediterranean-coastal-home-beige-neutral-interiors-bedroom Walk-in robe in a coastal Sydney Mediterranean-style house featuring rattan cupboard doors and a jewellery display cabinet. homebeautiful-1281996
Editor’s picks: the best Click Frenzy home buys on sale now https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/shopping/best-click-frenzy-sales-australia/ Fri, 07 Nov 2025 06:22:25 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1063334 Because I can't pass up a good excuse to shop

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Nothing captures my attention more than a good sale, and with Click Frenzy sales kicking off at 7 pm on Tuesday, November 11th, I’ll be dusting off my wishlist and taking my most coveted wishlist items home (before they sell out on Black Friday).

Click Frenzy sales at a glance

  • The Good Guys and Kogan have already launched Click Frenzy sales
  • Top home retailers, including Koala, Sheridan Outlet, and Pillow Talk, are expected to launch sales on the 11th of November
  • Smart shoppers can expect to save up to 60% on various homewares, furniture, and appliances

So, whether you’ve been eyeing a dreamy new mattress or simply waiting for an excuse to swap out any outdated furniture, you’ll want to know all about the amazing deals, discounts, and offers set to storm the internet during Click Frenzy’s The Main Event.


Shop the dreamiest sale items currently in our carts.

While the sales have yet to officially drop, I can confirm that a few brands have dropped their prices early, with many others dropping sales that don’t technically fall under the Click Frenzy umbrella (but that are still too good to miss). Remember to bookmark this tab to keep up to date on all the Click Frenzy deals from The Main Event, as I’ll be updating the list accordingly.

Shop the top Click Frenzy sales by category

And if you need some shopping inspo, I’ve got you covered. I’m here to do what I do best: curate gorgeous wish lists for you to enjoy. The dreamy discounts included below include a mix of early Click Frenzy sales and other unrelated (yet equally dreamy) deals you can shop now.

I adore these homewares and decor deals

Product image of Maison Balzac L'escargot candle, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

L’Escargot Large Scented Candle
$79 $49, Maison Balzac

Product image of Aura Home Velvet Cushion, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Aura Home Luxury Velvet Cushion
$79 $47.40, Myer

Product image of Miss Amara Rosalie Traditional Washable Rug, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Rosalie Traditional Washable Rug
$199 $139.30, Miss Amara

Product image of Temple & Webster's Forest & Linen Table Light, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Catalina Forest & Linen Table Light
$139.99 $104.99, Adairs


Furniture deals I’m adding to cart

Product image of Mocka's Felix Sherpa Occasional Chair, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Felix Sherpa Occasional Chair
$499.99 $299.99, Mocka

Product image of Lifely's Hazel Round Coffee Table, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Hazel Round Coffee Table
$699 $482, Lifely


The best practical appliances, heavily discounted

Product image of Nurtibullet 900 Event Series Blender, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Nutribullet 900 Event Series Blender
$119 $88, The Good Guys

Product image of the Roborock Qrevo L Robot Vacuum, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Roborock Qrevo L Robot Vacuum
$1499 $799, Kogan

Product image of Baccarat The SlushiePro, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Baccarat The SlushiePro
$999.99 $499.99, Myer

Product image of Kogan Inverter Washing Machine, as part of 2025's Click Frenzy Sale in Australia

Kogan Inverter Washing Machine
$1049.99 $589, Kogan


What is Click Frenzy?

Click Frenzy occurs two to three times a year, with its biggest sale (named The Main Event) taking place from Tuesday, the 11th of November, 2025. This is the biggest Click Frenzy sale of the year thus far, but it won’t stick around for long.

How can you find the best Click Frenzy sale deals?

You can shop the sale from the Click Frenzy marketplace; however, many retailers extend their Click Frenzy offerings to their own websites. So, if you have a loyalty programme you’ve been cashing up points on, you can continue doing so by shopping at some of your favourite stores directly.

What retailers will be having Click Frenzy sales in 2025?

Some notable brands taking part in Click Frenzy’s ‘The Main Event’ include Koala, Pillow Talk, Kogan, The Good Guys, Fantastic Furniture, and Petbarn. However, I expect plenty more sales to pop up closer to the 11th of November.

Should you shop during the Click Frenzy sales or wait for Black Friday?

If you’re planning to buy a particular piece during Black Friday and it goes on sale for 2025’s Click Frenzy, I absolutely recommend picking it up! Click Frenzy sales are often fairly generous, and popular items aren’t likely to stay in stock until Black Friday, particularly if they go on sale early.

However, if you don’t have a clear idea of what you want, Black Friday will offer a larger range of deals to choose from.


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


The post Editor’s picks: the best Click Frenzy home buys on sale now appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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1063334 L’Escargot Large Scented Candle Click Frenzy Sale Maison Balzac Click Frenzy Sale 2025 Luxury Velvet Cushion in Khaki Aura Home Click Frenzy Sale 2025 Miss Amara Rosalie Grey Cream Traditional Distressed Washable Rug Click Frenzy Sale 2025 Temple & Webster Catalina Forest & Linen Table Light Felix Sherpa Occasional Chair Click Frenzy Sales Hazel Round Coffee Table Natural Click Frenzy Sales 2025 The Mixer Olive Dalkeith 6 Seater Brown Rectangle Dining Table Fantastic Furniture Click Frenzy Sale Click Frenzy Appliance Sales NUTRIBULLET 900 Matte Event Series Blender Mocha Click Frenzy Sale Robot Vacuum 2025 Roborock Qrevo L Robot Vacuum and Mop Cleaner (Official Australian Model) Click Frenzy Sale 2025 Baccarat The SlushiePro Click Frenzy Washing Machine Kogan 10kg Front Load BLDC Inverter Washing Machine Sale 2025 Split image, on one side, a home with spotless hardwood flooring, on the other, a selection of the best robot vacuum black friday sale deals Interiors of a modern minimalist kitchen and dining area Split Image, on the left, the Koala Torquay Modular Sofa, and on the left, the Koala Kirribilli Bed Frame, as part of the Koala Black Friday Sale 2025 homebeautiful-1063334
Discover Fledge & Thread’s handcrafted Christmas tree ornaments https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/home-ideas/fledge-and-thread-christmas-tree-ornaments/ Wed, 05 Nov 2025 22:54:33 +0000 https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/?p=1281632 Founder Keren Fraser makes festive treasures that are popular around the world.

The post Discover Fledge & Thread’s handcrafted Christmas tree ornaments appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Every year, Keren and her sister end up in hysterics as they attempt to recreate a Christmas cake their mum used to bake. “We make it the same way every year, but the recipe says things like ‘a pinch of this’ and ‘a dash of that’, so we’re there going, ‘What does this even mean?!’” Keren says with a laugh.

Fledge and Thread Keren Fraser
Keren Fraser closed her bricks-and-mortar homewares store and now runs a thriving online business from her home studio, including Christmas tree ornaments. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

It’s one of those festive traditions that may not make much sense, but it brings joy and meaning to the season. “You miss the people who you don’t have around anymore, so it’s kind of bittersweet at the same time,” acknowledges Keren, whose mother’s absence is deeply felt.

HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_Keren Fraser
For Keren (pictured wearing a blouse she designed herself), Christmas is about time with family. This includes her husband Mathew, their children Lennox and Quinn (wearing a Fledge & Thread teddy dress), and their Labrador Archie, British Shorthair cat Mac and Cavoodle Sully (above). (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)
Fledge and Thread Keren Fraser cavoodle
Cavoodle Charlie is a new addition to the family home, based in WA. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

At a glance

Who The owner and designer behind Fledge & Thread, Keren Fraser.
What she does Illustrates baby and children’s clothing and bedding, paints original decor and artworks, and creates an audio book series.
Where In her colour-drenched home studio in Western Australia.
Why she does it “My hope is that our designs build on the imagination for little ones.”
Visit fledgeandthread.com.au; @fledgeandthread

HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_Christmas tree
Fledge & Thread founder Keren has been putting the finishing touches on a range of handpainted ceramic baubles. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

Now, with her husband Mathew and their two children, Lennox, eight, and Quinn, five, making the season magical matters more than ever. The family moved into their “eclectic but classic” Art Deco home six years ago, though to Keren it feels like yesterday. “When we first walked in, Lennox was around two years old,” she recalls. “I said to Mat, ‘If we get this house, I can hear his little footsteps running down the hallway.’ It was so strange, I could feel it in my body. Now, we have two kids who run up the hallway.”

Home Beautiful Fledge & Thread decoarions
As far as Australian Christmas decorations go, these ones are pretty special. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

Making her Christmas tree ornaments

It’s not just her own children Keren hopes to pass the festive spirit on to. As the founder of Fledge & Thread, she crafts Christmas ornaments that find homes far and wide. “I’ve got collectors around the world who buy a few pieces every year to pass on to future generations,” she says. “It’s so lovely, it makes me quite emotional, actually.”

Fledge and Thread Keren Fraser painting rocking horse
The handpainted rocking horses Keren makes for Christmas are always popular. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

Like Santa, the talented illustrator will be busy in her workshop in the lead-up to Christmas, creating 12 one-of-a-kind baubles. From a little duck, to a labrador with a red bow, each is handpainted with a charming animal in a festive scene. “As a child, I used to imagine these little creatures in the woods behind our house, so I think I draw on that,” Keren says.

HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_artworks
Talented artist Keren uses a mix of paints to create original works, including illustrations for her upcoming children’s book, ‘Mr Whiskers Finds His Whiskers’. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

This year, there will be a select number of handpainted wooden rocking horses, too. “Last year, I only launched three of them and they sold out straightaway,” she says. But perhaps the most delightful new piece of work to come from Fledge & Thread this year is an audio Christmas story series, designed to accompany the baby rompers and children’s pyjamas. “The stories have the same characters in them as the ones on the Christmas range,” Keren explains. “I thought it would be a really nice connection for kids, because they love stories around Christmastime.”

Fledge and Trhead handpainted plates
The decorative plates were handpainted by Keren. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

It will be a merry buzz of activity in her home studio for several more weeks, before Keren, Mathew and their children head down the coast to see Keren’s dad, sister, brother and their families. “I think that was the biggest thing for Mum, she always wanted us to stay together and close as a family,” shares Keren – and that’s one tradition that needs no explanation.

Fledge and Thread Keren Fraser home Christmas decorations
Lennox and Quinn enjoying their mum’s handiwork on her handmade Christmas ornaments. (Photography: Tristan McKenzie)

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1281632 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_WebRes49 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_HighRes23_w1500 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_WebRes28 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_Christmas tree HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_HighRes31_w1500 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_WebRes43 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_HighRes46_w1500 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_HighRes6_w1500 HomeBeautiful_Fledge&Thread_WebRes22 homebeautiful-1281632