#(featuring Sydney throwing shade back)

[gin-draws]

Getting ready to start a 90’s high school themed campaign- so here’s some sketches 💖✨

Madison’s parents were not expecting a tiefling- so they monetize their daughter’s appearance to make themselves feel better about it.

My mean, vapid, popular girl… who is actually a divination wizard. I can’t wait ✨🔮💖✨

The bottom image is her disguise self (to sneak out to the arcade), her regular attire, and her actual gender and style goals.

[ear-worthy]

Ghost Or Fiction? Podcast: Neither Debunker Nor Defender!

Australia is famous in so many ways -- from the Great Barrier Reef to the Sydney Opera House and from Margot Robbie to its friendly and easy-going people with their laid-back nature, unique sense of humor, and love of sport, recreation, and the great outdoors.

What is less well-known is the nation's thriving podcast community. Australia has one of the highest levels of podcast listenership in the world. That's no surprise because it's home to some of the highest quality podcasts -- From All In The Mind and Hamish & Andy to The Party Room and The Orchard. 

To add to that impressive national podcast excellence comes Ghost Or Fiction? a new podcast by Kate Green from Canberra. 

Here's how Green describes her podcast: "I'm Kate Green and I'm not here to tell that ghosts don't exist. I'm here to debunk the ghost stories that have simple explanations, leaving space for the stories that might truly be paranormal. Because nothing would make me happier than meeting a grey lady."

What a incredible premise. There are a number of podcasts that seek to debunk the paranormal, throwing shade on ghosts and hauntings. On the flip side, there are thousands of paranormal podcasts. 

Like so many inventive indie podcasters, Kate Green has discovered the space between those two positions. Essentially saying, "there could be ghosts but I'm going to tell you about the stories in which a more scientific explanation explains the phenomena."

The show just began in October and has produced a trailer and two episodes so far. 

In the debut episode of Ghost or Fiction?, host Kate Green describes what may be one of the most common sources of ghost sightings—sleep paralysis. Titled The Ghost in the Room, the episode explores how this unsettling sleep condition can make people believe they've encountered a ghost.

Kate, a science communicator, takes a closer look at the phenomenon that causes people to wake up unable to move, sensing a presence or even seeing something terrifying in their room. These vivid experiences have led to centuries of ghost stories, from medieval folklore to modern-day hauntings. Kate Green breaks down the science behind sleep paralysis, offering a rational explanation for what many interpret as paranormal encounters.

Green's approach is calm and investigative without being judgmental, and sheinvites listeners to question what they know about ghost sightings and consider how our minds—and sleep states—can deceive us.

In the following October 27th episode, Green explains how ghosts became known as apparitions with white sheets. Simply put, in past centuries, people who died were often buried in white shrouds instead of coffins. Hence, the ghostly apparel.

When I spoke to Kate Green, here's what she told me about herself: "I live in Canberra, Australia, and spend my spare time—and any cooking session—listening to podcasts. My favorites feature the paranormal. One standout is the BBC's Uncanny, where Danny Robbins investigates eerie experiences like hauntings, time slips and other unexplained phenomena. His mastery of suspense and storytelling makes every episode compelling. I also enjoy shows that feature listener-submitted ghost stories, which bring a range of strange encounters to the mic."

Green then elucidates a key point. The best podcasters have listened to many podcasts. It's like the maxim that good writers read a lot.

Green continues: "After months of listening, I started noticing recurring themes in ghost stories. People seem quick to jump to paranormal conclusions, perhaps fueled by a wish to believe or a limited understanding of human psychology and physiology. A dream during sleep, for example, isn’t paranormal—it’s just a dream, even if it happens to be very meaningful. Feelings of fear, such as when visiting a haunted location, can create physical sensations that some people interpret as supernatural. And when people report seeing a ghost or hearing footsteps, I sometimes wonder if it wasn’t just another person—considering there are about eight billion of us out there."

What would Kate Green want to debunk the paranormal? Green answers with: "As a science communicator, I want to bring facts to the table, encouraging a pause for reflection before reaching any conclusions. This approach extends beyond ghost stories: a healthy skepticism can improve how we interpret everything we hear—in the news, on social media, or from politicians, friends and family.

Green goes on to say: "But once we filter out the explainable, some stories remain puzzling. Those are the stories I want to create space for—the ones that make you wonder if there really could be something out there.”

What makes Ghost Or Fiction? so ear worthy?First, Green is a superb host. Her cadence is measured and suffused with meaning. The narrative structure is well-designed and organized. Green's use of sound effects adds to the timbre of the show without overwhelming the episode. In a podcast world of ever-expanding episode runtimes, Green is thankfully concise.

Finally, she knows how to tell a story, present facts, and arrive at conclusions. 

When asked about her podcasting experience so far, Green said: "One of the biggest challenges in podcasting, besides getting over hearing the sound of your own voice, is building an audience. But with each episode, I hope to invite more people to join the search for what might—or might not—exist in the shadows and to submit their own stories to the show."

 I highly recommend Ghost Or Fiction? If you are a logical thinker, the science Green details will appeal to you. However, if you are a believer in the paranormal, Green is hoping she sees "a grey lady" just like some of her listeners.

Kate Green also solicits stories about paranormal interaction from her listeners. So, if you've spotted Elvis or just Aunt Rose, let her know by emailing her at: ghostorfiction@gmail.com.

[homerenovationnorthshore]

Bohemian Bliss: Adding a Touch of Eccentricity to Your Inner West Renovation

Renovating a home is an exciting yet challenging process, especially when you're aiming to add a unique flair to your space. For homeowners in the Inner West, blending creativity with practical design is essential to reflect the eclectic vibe of this vibrant Sydney neighbourhood. One of the most enchanting styles to consider when embarking on your Home Renovation Inner West project is the Bohemian, or “boho”, aesthetic.

Bohemian interior design is renowned for its free-spirited, artistic vibe, full of patterns, textures, and a mix of global influences. Whether you're updating a cosy terrace house or a modern apartment, adding a touch of Bohemian bliss to your renovation can transform your Inner West home into a space that exudes warmth, creativity, and individuality.

In this article, we’ll explore how to incorporate Bohemian design elements into your Inner West renovation and create a space that feels both stylish and comfortable.

What Is Bohemian Interior Design?

Before diving into how to implement this style, it’s important to understand what Bohemian design entails. The Bohemian aesthetic is inspired by the unconventional lifestyle of artists, writers, and travellers who value creativity over trends. Boho interiors often feature:

Rich, vibrant colours: Earthy tones such as terracotta, mustard yellow, and deep greens are mixed with bold accents like jewel tones.

Layered textures: Natural materials like wood, rattan, and jute are combined with soft fabrics such as velvet, silk, and wool.

A mix of patterns: Boho embraces clashing patterns, such as geometric designs, florals, and tribal prints.

Global influences: Bohemian interiors are often adorned with treasures from around the world, including Moroccan rugs, Indian tapestries, and African sculptures.

A laid-back, lived-in feel: This design style is about comfort and creating a welcoming environment.

Now that you have a basic understanding of the style, let’s look at how to incorporate these elements into your Home Renovation Inner West.

Embracing Colour: The Heart of Bohemian Bliss

Colour plays a crucial role in setting the tone for a Bohemian-inspired renovation. For your Inner West home, consider choosing a warm and inviting palette that combines earthy tones with pops of vibrant hues. This will bring a sense of balance and creativity into your space.

Choosing the Right Base Colours

Start by selecting a neutral base for your walls, such as off-white, beige, or light grey. These colours will provide a blank canvas on which to layer bolder accents. For a more dramatic look, opt for deeper base colours like olive green or burnt orange.

Adding Bold Accents

Once your base colours are set, it’s time to introduce vibrant accents. Incorporate shades like sapphire blue, ruby red, or emerald green through accessories, soft furnishings, or feature walls. You can also use these colours to highlight architectural features like fireplaces or window frames. The goal is to create a dynamic and energising space that reflects the artistic, eclectic spirit of the Inner West.

Layering Textures: Creating Depth and Comfort

Bohemian interiors thrive on a mix of textures that add warmth and interest to a room. When planning your Home Renovation Inner West, think about how you can layer textures to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere.

Flooring Options

For flooring, consider natural materials like hardwood, bamboo, or cork, which provide warmth and character. Layer these with plush rugs in bold patterns or earthy tones. Moroccan and Persian rugs, in particular, add a sense of global flair and are perfect for creating a focal point in your living room or bedroom.

Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings are key to achieving a Bohemian aesthetic. Layer sofas with textured cushions and throws in various fabrics, such as linen, velvet, and cotton. Drape woven tapestries on walls, use macramé plant hangers, and introduce rattan furniture to create an eclectic yet cohesive look.

Window Treatments

For window treatments, opt for lightweight, flowy fabrics like sheer curtains or linen drapes that let in natural light while adding softness to the room. You can also layer curtains in different patterns and textures to enhance the boho vibe.

Mixing Patterns: The Boho Signature

Bohemian design is all about embracing variety, and this extends to the use of patterns. One of the most exciting aspects of a Boho renovation is the freedom to mix and match patterns without worrying about them clashing. The key is to strike a balance so that the space doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Choosing Patterns for Walls and Furniture

When selecting patterns for your Home Renovation Inner West, consider using bold, geometric designs for wallpaper or feature walls. Complement this with floral or tribal prints for cushions, rugs, and upholstery. The more varied the patterns, the more interesting the space becomes. However, ensure that the patterns share a common colour palette to maintain harmony.

Incorporating Global Textiles

Global textiles are another hallmark of the Bohemian style. Incorporate handwoven tapestries, ethnic rugs, and artisanal cushions from various cultures to give your space a worldly, travelled feel. Textiles from India, Mexico, and Morocco are particularly popular in Boho interiors and can easily be found in specialty shops around the Inner West.

Global Treasures: The Soul of Boho Design

A true Bohemian interior is a reflection of its owner’s personality and travels. Incorporating global treasures into your renovation can help bring the Bohemian spirit to life. When curating these pieces, think of items that tell a story and reflect your personal experiences or interests.

Where to Find Unique Décor

The Inner West is known for its eclectic mix of vintage shops, flea markets, and artisanal stores. Spend time browsing through these local haunts to find one-of-a-kind furniture, artwork, and accessories that will bring authenticity to your home. Items like handcrafted pottery, vintage trunks, or a well-worn leather armchair can become statement pieces that anchor your design.

Displaying Art and Collectibles

Don’t be afraid to display your art and collectibles in an unconventional way. Hang an assortment of framed art in various sizes and styles, and mix in woven baskets, mirrors, or even musical instruments for a gallery-like effect. The more personalised and layered your décor, the more it will exude Bohemian charm.

Greenery: Bringing Nature Indoors

Plants play an integral role in Bohemian design, adding life and colour to your home. In the context of a Home Renovation Inner West, consider incorporating indoor plants to soften the overall look and bring a sense of calm to your space.

Choosing the Right Plants

Opt for lush, leafy plants such as monstera, fiddle leaf fig, or snake plant. These plants not only add to the aesthetic but also purify the air, creating a healthier living environment. For a more dramatic effect, consider hanging plants like pothos or string of pearls to add vertical interest.

Creative Plant Displays

Instead of traditional plant stands, get creative with your displays. Use macramé hangers, place plants in woven baskets, or repurpose vintage furniture to showcase your greenery. Mixing different plant sizes and types will help create a layered, organic feel.

Conclusion: Embracing Bohemian Bliss in Your Inner West Renovation

Adding a touch of Bohemian bliss to your Home Renovation Inner West can transform your home into a warm, inviting, and creatively inspiring space. By blending vibrant colours, layered textures, and a mix of global patterns and treasures, you can create a home that reflects the eclectic spirit of both the Boho aesthetic and the vibrant Inner West community.

Whether you’re revamping a single room or undertaking a whole-house renovation, embracing Bohemian design offers endless opportunities for personal expression and creativity. Remember, the beauty of Boho lies in its imperfection—so don’t be afraid to mix, match, and let your imagination run wild!

FAQs

1. What is the Bohemian design style?

Bohemian, or Boho, design is a free-spirited, eclectic style that blends various textures, patterns, and global influences. It’s known for its vibrant colours, natural materials, and laid-back, artistic vibe.

2. How can I incorporate Bohemian design into my Inner West home?

Start by choosing a neutral base colour and layering vibrant accents. Add global textiles, vintage furniture, and greenery to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Mixing patterns and textures is key to achieving a Boho look.

3. What are the best colours for a Bohemian renovation?

Earthy tones like terracotta, mustard yellow, and olive green are popular base colours for a Boho aesthetic. You can then introduce bolder shades like sapphire blue, emerald green, and ruby red through accessories and soft furnishings.

4. Where can I find Bohemian décor in the Inner West?

The Inner West is home to many vintage shops, flea markets, and artisanal stores where you can find unique Boho décor, such as vintage rugs, handmade pottery, and global textiles.

5. How do I choose the right plants for a Bohemian interior?

Opt for lush, leafy plants like monstera, fiddle leaf figs, or hanging plants like pothos. Display them in creative ways using woven baskets, macramé hangers, or repurposed furniture to enhance the Boho look.

[benchesteak]

Creative Ideas for Outdoor Lounge Settings in Sydney

Sydney’s temperate climate and stunning natural scenery make it the perfect backdrop for creating exquisite outdoor lounge settings. Whether you have a sprawling garden, a cosy patio, or a compact balcony, there are endless ways to design an inviting and stylish outdoor lounge space. Here are some fresh and innovative ideas tailored to the unique charm of Sydney living.

Urban Oasis

For those living in the heart of Sydney, transforming a small balcony or rooftop into an urban oasis can be a delightful escape from city life. Opt for compact, multi-functional furniture such as modular sofas or folding chairs that maximise space without compromising comfort. Vertical gardens or hanging planters can add greenery without taking up valuable floor space. String lights or lanterns can create a cosy, intimate atmosphere in the evenings, making your urban outdoor lounge a perfect spot for relaxation or entertaining.

Tropical Retreat

Sydney’s warm climate is ideal for a tropical-themed outdoor lounge. Use lush greenery and vibrant floral arrangements to bring a sense of the tropics to your space. Rattan or wicker furniture pieces with bright, colourful cushions can add to the tropical feel. Consider incorporating a water feature, like a small fountain or a birdbath, to enhance the sense of tranquillity. Bamboo accents, tiki torches, and vibrant outdoor rugs can complete the tropical ambiance, making your lounge area feel like a permanent vacation spot.

Modern Minimalism

For those who prefer a sleek, contemporary look, a modern minimalist outdoor lounge might be the perfect fit. Choose furniture with clean lines and simple forms, favouring materials like metal, concrete, and teak for a sophisticated aesthetic. Neutral colours like white, grey, and black can create a calm and elegant environment. To prevent the space from feeling too stark, add texture through outdoor rugs, cushions, and blankets. Minimalist planters with sculptural succulents or grasses can add a touch of greenery without overwhelming the space.

Bohemian Hideaway

Create a relaxed, eclectic outdoor lounge with a bohemian-inspired design. Mix and match different furniture styles and patterns to achieve a laid-back, personalised vibe. Layer rugs, cushions, and throws in a variety of textures and vibrant colors to create a cosy and inviting space. Hammocks or hanging chairs can add a fun, whimsical touch. Decorate with fairy lights, lanterns, and an assortment of potted plants to enhance the boho-chic atmosphere. This style is perfect for those who enjoy a casual, free-spirited outdoor setting.

Alfresco Dining and Lounge Combo

Combine the best of both worlds by designing an outdoor space that functions as both a dining and lounging area. Choose a versatile outdoor dining table that can double as a coffee table when paired with comfortable lounge chairs or benches. This setup allows you to seamlessly transition from meals to relaxation without needing separate areas. Add outdoor cushions, a large parasol or retractable awning for shade, and ambient lighting to create a space that is perfect for both daytime gatherings and evening soirees.

Designing an outdoor lounge in Sydney offers a myriad of possibilities to suit various tastes and lifestyles. Whether you prefer coastal chic, urban minimalism, tropical flair, or bohemian eclecticism, the key is to create a space that reflects your personal style and provides a comfortable, inviting environment for relaxation and entertainment. With the right elements and a bit of creativity, your outdoor lounge can become your favourite spot to enjoy Sydney's beautiful weather and stunning views.

[dwindledglow]

001. MEET JADE

FULL NAME: jade beatrice montgomery. PREFERRED NAME: jade. NICKNAME/S: jadey or jadee — from family only — and her little brother calls her nova due to her gaming years but people in general don’t tend to use nicknames with her. DATE OF BIRTH: march 21st, 1998. GENDER & PRONOUNS: cis female & she/her. ORIENTATION: hetero. RELIGION: non-practicing christian. RELATIONSHIP STATUS: in a relationship with nicolas leuthold. OCCUPATION: full time university student and freelance designer. RESIDENCE: gramercy park, new york city though she currently lives in zurich, switzerland.

002. CHECK JADE’S BACKGROUND

HOMETOWN: perth, australia. NATIONALITY: australian. ETHNIC BACKGROUND: australian. LINGUISTICS: english which is her native language and french, spanish, portuguese and italian in a fluent level. EDUCATION: she studies game design at nyu. CRIMINAL RECORD: clean. BIRTH ORDER: second. FATHER: joshua seth montgomery, born on december 2nd, 1971 in sydney, australia, currently residing in greenwich village, new york city and working as a psychiatrist. MOTHER: meredith eva montgomery, née adams, born on april 12th, 1972 in melbourne, australia, currently residing in greenwich village, new york city and working as an anesthesiologist. SISTER/S: helena sophia montgomery, born on august 8th, 1995 in perth, australia, currently residing in boston, massachusetts and working as a cardiologist and heart surgeon. BROTHER/S: blake stephen montgomery, born on november 9th, 1999 in perth, australia, currently residing in boston, massachusetts where he studies.  SIGNIFICANT OTHER: nicolas leuthold. CHILDREN: none so far. OTHER RELEVANT FAMILY: eliza marie montgomery, grandmother.  EX/ES: benjamin lucas and noah williams. PETS: kylo ren, a cavoodle and drax, a french bulldog.

003. GET UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

HEIGHT: 5′6″ or 168 cm. WEIGHT: between 116 lbs or 53 kg and 121 lbs or 55 kg. BODY BUILD: body-shape wise, and following the stereotypes, she would be considered the classic shape. jade is naturally slim, she never had ease putting on weight and when she was younger that translated into being made fun of because she had no actual curves. with a lot of hard work at the gym, and a diet tailored by a nutritionist, over the years she managed to achieve a body she’s proud of. nowadays, jade is the epitome of fit. she has particularly long, toned legs as well as toned arms and abs. she’s willowy, has a defined waist and though she’s by no means thick, she does have a medium sized bust - 32C - and bum. EYE COLOR: green. EYESIGHT: she wears glasses, blue-light blocking ones, when she’s working on the computer for hours on end and when she’s resting her eyes. otherwise and on a daily basis, she wears contacts. HAIR COLOR & STYLE: her hair is naturally brown, but instead of being one shade only, it’s a few different ones. usually she keeps her long hair loose and allows it to dry into its natural waves but at times, she’ll throw it up in a bun or in a high ponytail. if she’s going to an event of any kind or for a more special occasion, she goes for more of a classic low bun with some strands framing her face or she just straightens her hair. other moments, she just keeps half of her hair up and the other half down. DOMINANT HAND: right. NOTABLE PHYSICAL TRAITS: from the cat-shape of her eyes and the long eyelashes framing them, the little ski-slope nose, as people have taken a liking to call it through the years, to her plump lips and chiseled features, there’s a lot to notice about jade. people say god was playing favorites when she was born, that she stole all the good genes in the family and really? they’re not wrong. SCARS AND MARKS: jade is, as she usually says, team random bruise which means every now and again, without her even noticing and probably as the result of some workout or daily activity, a bruise will appear on her skin. besides those, a few scars she’s gotten over the course of her life and a few little marks, like little moles and freckles, she doesn’t have anything particularly outstanding. TATTOOS: she has a 11:11 on the underside of her right upper arm, she has a subtle orion constellation on the inside of right arm, she has a dainty, watercolor supernova tattoo on the left side of her ribcage, often covered up by her bra straps, she has her grandma’s name in morse code, on the inside of her left wrist and she has four little arrows pointing upwards on the back of her right ear. PIERCINGS: she has her regular lobes pierced. VOICECLAIM: isabelle mathers. ACCENT & INTENSITY: she’s been living in new york since she was four, meaning the australian accent should’ve faded into nothing by now, but with the amount of time spent with her parents and siblings through the years, all the facetime calls to her granny and the friends back home, as well as the frequent visits to sunny australia, it stayed put and it’s still as intense as always. ALLERGIES: insect stings. PHOBIAS & FEARS: failing, not being able to achieve what she wants in life. MENTAL & PHYSICAL ILLNESSES: none so far. ALCOHOL USE: sometimes. SMOKING: she doesn’t smoke. NARCOTICS USE: no, she doesn’t use drugs. INDULGENT FOOD: occasionally, she won’t say no to her favorites. SPLURGE SPENDING: not so often. GAMBLING: no, never.

004. DIG DEEPER

CAN THEY DRIVE? yes, she can drive. CAN THEY COOK & BAKE? yes and yes. CAN THEY CHANGE A FLAT TIRE? ish. CAN THEY TIE A TIE? yes. CAN THEY SWIM? yes. CAN THEY RIDE A BICYCLE? yes. CAN THEY JUMP START A CAR? no. CAN THEY BRAID HAIR? yes. CAN THEY PICK A LOCK? no. EXTROVERTED OR INTROVERTED? extroverted. DISORGANIZED OR ORGANIZED? organized. CLOSE OR OPEN MINDED? open minded. CALM OR ANXIOUS? calm. PATIENT OR IMPATIENT? in-between. OUTSPOKEN OR RESERVED? outspoken. LEADER OR FOLLOWER? leader. OPTIMISTIC OR PESSIMISTIC? optimistic. TRADITIONAL OR MODERN? modern. HARD-WORKING OR LAZY? hard-working. CULTURED OR UNCULTURED? cultured. LOYAL OR DISLOYAL? loyal. FAITHFUL OR UNFAITHFUL? faithful. NIGHT OWL OR EARLY BIRD? night owl. HEAVY OR LIGHT SLEEPER? heavy sleeper. COFFEE OR TEA? coffee. DAY OR NIGHT? night. TAKING BATHS OR SHOWERS? baths. COCA COLA OR PEPSI? neither. CATS OR DOGS? dogs. NETFLIX OR CINEMA? netflix. SHOWS OR MOVIES? movies. LAPTOP OR GAMING CONSOLE? gaming console. HEALTHY OR JUNK FOOD? healthy food. ICE CREAM OR FROZEN YOGURT? ice cream. PIZZA OR HAMBURGER? pizza. LOLLIPOPS OR GUMMY WORMS? gummy worms. BEACH OR POOL? beach. SNOWBALLS FIGHTING OR ICESKATING? iceskating. LITERATURE OR SCIENCE? literature. HISTORY OR ART? art. CHOCOLATE BARS OR COTTON CANDY? chocolate bars. XBOX OR PLAYSTATION? playstation. FACE-TO-FACE OR PHONE INTERACTIONS? face-to-face interactions. DRAMA OR SCI-FI? sci-fi. HORROR OR COMEDY? horror.

005. JADE’S FAVORITES

FAVORITE ACTIVITY: gaming. FAVORITE ANIMAL: koala. FAVORITE BOOK: city of girls by elizabeth gilbert. FAVORITE COLOR/S: she doesn’t have one. FAVORITE CUISINE: mediterranean, thai and chinese. FAVORITE DISH/ES: parmigiana, som tum, avocado toast, khao pad, pad thai (anything thai mostly), pavlova, tim tams, chocolate crackles. FAVORITE DRINK/S: lemon lavender tea latte and coconut water. FAVORITE FLOWER/S: water lillies and dahlias. FAVORITE GEM: jade. FAVORITE MOVIE: eternal sunshine of the spotless mind by michel gondry. FAVORITE SONG: mona lisa by VALNTN and Peter Fenn, featuring tray haggerty. FAVORITE SCENT/S: rose, vanilla, coffee and lime. FAVORITE SHOW/S: la casa de papel is her ultimate favorite show and currently the only one she’s been keeping up with. FAVORITE SPORT/S & TEAM THEY SUPPORT: basketball, she supports boston celtics. FAVORITE SEASON OF THE YEAR: summer. VACATION DESTINATION: seoul, south korea. 

[desertislandcloud]

Can pop music be real? Can real music be pop? With songs as her weapon, singer/songwriter Valencia James confronts life’s issues with edgy melodies and polished production. Valencia's brand of dark pop calls to attention the war between struggle and confidence. Her lyrics hold little back, navigating listeners towards the light that calls honesty to the front. Strong. Mysterious. Authentic. Life can throw shadows but one thing’s for sure — Valencia James isn’t afraid of the dark.

Born in New York and now residing in Sydney, Australia the dark-pop artist prides herself in crafting powerfully emotive music, which both thematically and sonically cuts deep to the soul. Valencia’s music is inspired by life events and aims to talk about darkness and shade, whilst casting a brightness and positivity to it. 

Leading single ‘Flames’ stems from the tragic story of when Valencia's family home was burnt down in the infamous Waldo Canyon fire in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Losing sentimental photos and videos of her childhood memories, the traumatic experience sparked inspiration in the songwriter and from the ashes came the song ‘Flames’. 

���The song also represents how easily a relationship can be destroyed through words and actions” reveals Valencia, “anyone that has ever had relationship difficulties or been hurt because of words or actions can probably relate to this song”. ‘Flames’ is a courageous anthem, blending playful instrumentation with powerful lyrics. Featuring pulsating rhythms, atmospheric soundscapes and raw vocals, ‘Flames’ emits a potent and intimate experience for listeners. 

The visuals for the single mimic the narrative, portraying explosive flames engulfing the singer. Bravely looking directly into the eyes of her audience, Valencia is expressing her story and remaining stoic through turmoil. This highlights Valencia's message of taking responsibility for your words and actions and that seasons of heartbreak and difficult times will pass. Valencia James is a hungry songwriter, unacquainted with defeat, her debut single ‘Flames’ is currently available worldwide. 

Links https://www.instagram.com/valenciajamesofficial https://www.facebook.com/valenciajamesofficial https://twitter.com/valenciajamesTW

[jeremystrele]

THIS Is How You Renovate An Architect-Designed, Mid-Century Home!

THIS Is How You Renovate An Architect-Designed, Mid-Century Home!

Homes

by Lucy Feagins, Editor

Original George Nelson saucer. Poolside Gossip print by Slim Aarons. Mirror and table from West Elm. Oak Bok chairs from Ethnicraft. Original parker sideboard from Tangerine and Teal. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Poolside Gossip print by Slim Aarons. Wood burning fireplace by Abbey Fireplaces. Original George Nelson saucer. Rug from West Elm. Ceiling fan from Big Ass Fan. Sofa from King Furniture. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Happy Days painting by Elizabeth Sullivan. Original MCM chairs restored by Tangerine and Teal. Rug from West Elm. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Amelia Hesketh at home. Poolside Gossip print by Slim Aarons. Mirror and table from West Elm. Oak Bok chair from Ethnicraft. Original parker sideboard by Tangerine and Teal. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Mirror and table from West Elm. Oak Bok chair from Ethnicraft. Original parker sideboard by Tangerine and Teal. Original George Nelson saucer. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Wood fire from Abbey Fireplaces. Poolside Gossip print by Slim Aarons. Cedar wood panelling. Macrame plant hanger made be Amelia. Original MCM chairs restored by Tangerine and Teal. ‘Puzzle’ tiles from Mutina. Engineered wood flooring in Invisible Oil from Woodcut. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Original George Nelson saucer. Table from West Elm. Oak Bok chair from Ethnicraft. Poolside Gossip print by Slim Aarons. Engineered wood flooring in Invisible oil from Woodcut. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Cedar panelling clads the interiors. A fiddle leaf fig and philodendron xanadu in the corner. A drum bought in Egypt. A restored original balustrade restored by Amelia and Oliver. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Beams painted in Dulux Mission Brown. Poster hanging on the left is the original plans of the house. Painting on the right is Happy Days by Elizabeth Sullivan. Sofa from King Furniture. Chair restored by Tangerine and Teal. Coffee table from Noguchi. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Looking from the kitchen into the courtyard. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Frandsen Hitchcock chandelier from Design Stuff. Stacked gloss, rustic green splashback tiles from DiLorenzo. Wood veneer is Rift cut American Oak. Bar stools from KMart. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Stacked gloss, rustic green splashback tiles from DiLorenzo. Wood veneer is Rift cut American Oak. Bar stools from Kmart. Walls painted with Dulux Lexicon Quarter. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Bed from Life Interiors. Original Parker side table and Beresford dresser from Tangerine and Teal. ‘Mantis’ bedside sconce from Lights Lights Lights. ‘Tempt’ carpet from Supertuft. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Elara Pendant light from Urban Lighting. ‘Jazz Arch’ mirror cabinets from Timberline.  Mier tapware. Custom made vanity. Teal Mosaic tiles from Academy Tiles. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Parlour Sphere Pendant from LightCo. ‘Pavlova’ terrazzo floor tile from Fibonacci Stone. White square mosaic wall tile from Academy Tiles. Custom-made vanity. Timberline cabinet. Meir tapware. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Scion Priya Blush Wall paper from Natty and Polly. Desenio print. Sideboard from RJ Living. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Left: Parlour Sphere Pendant from LightCo. White square mosaic wall tile from Academy Tiles. Custom-made vanity. Timberline cabinet. Meir tapware. Right: ‘Skate or Die’ wallpaper from Milton and King. Print from Desenio. Ikea bedlinen. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Front door panelled with cedar. Puzzle tile from Mutina. Photo – Jacqui Turk. Styling – Jono Fleming.

Interior designer Amelia Hesketh, founder of Frank Designs, recalls inspecting this mid-century house for sale in Lindfield (on Sydney’s Upper North Shore) seven years ago. ‘It was obvious that most people saw it as a knockdown and rebuild (as happens far too often with these houses), but we could only see potential,’ she says. 

Thankfully, the interior designer and her husband Oliver Hesketh were able to buy the property, becoming only the second owners in its history. They share the home with their three children, Will (11), Ruby (9), and Poppy (7).

The house was built in 1969 and designed by architect Bill Baker, (the same architect as Tim Ross’ house!) ‘Bill flew in the air force during WWII and was influenced by the American architecture. When he returned he enrolled in architecture school, then worked as an architect and a Qantas pilot,’ says Amelia. 

The house was in near original state at the time of purchasing, complete with the architectural plans found in the back of a desk drawer! While the couple loved its mid-century features, the property was run down and was soon in need of an update. ‘All the original cedar wall panelling was falling off… Bathroom tiles were coming away, and the floor joists in the girl’s bedroom were rotten from the roof leaking into the wall cavity,’ says Amelia. ‘They used to jump on the floor and use it like a trampoline! 

Energy efficiency was also an issue that needed addressing. ‘The house didn’t have an ounce of insulation, and all the windows were pane glass, with the frames having been eaten away by termites,’ Amelia says. ‘One night, while lying in bed, our master bedroom window fell out onto the neighbour’s property!’

Structurally, only one internal wall between the kitchen and living space was removed in the eventual renovation, but numerous other updates were made. ‘All other internal wall paneling was taken down, the framing checked for termite damage, then all put back together as we found it – but with insulation,’ Amelia says. ‘We replaced all the cedar wall panelling, and actually added more as I love it so much, it brings so much warmth to the house.’ 

All the original joinery was reused and refurbished, as required, throughout this process. ‘We did not throw one piece out, which I am very proud of,’ Amelia says. They built it to last back then, and it is all so functional.’ Amelia also notes the huge contribution of her ‘absolutely brilliant builder’, Jacob Vorias from Vorcon Constructions. 

In terms of colour, Amelia was careful not to whitewash the home, instead introducing shades similar to the original scheme. ‘I couldn’t tell you how many people tried to talk me into painting over the mission brown!’ she says. ‘There was no way I was going to get rid of the mission brown – it’s part of the era. As a designer I had to make it work and I think I was successful in doing this. Everyone now loves them.’

Amelia’s carpet and tile selections also share this mid-century flavour, encompassing terrazzo and geometric patterns, blue mosaics, green kit kats and green carpet in the main bedroom. ‘It was always going to be green carpet, and there are no regrets,’ Amelia says.  

Tying everything together is Dulux Lexicon Quarter used throughout the house, and the original brown, touched up with – you guessed it – Dulux Mission Brown!

Not only does the architecture of this property feel like a step back in time, so does the neighbourhood. The couple were initially hesitant to move to the North Shore after years in Sydney’s inner-west, but quickly grew to love the lifestyle this has afforded their children. ‘The house is in a cul-de-sac, so our kids have a real 1980s childhood… Out on the street on their bikes, and running from house to house visiting friends,’ Amelia says. ‘We now love leafy Lindfield. All our friends south of the bridge said they’d never visit us. They all do!’

Special thanks to our new Sydney team, photographer Jacqui Turk and stylist Jono Fleming,��for capturing this very special mid-century gem!

[bookstattoosandtea]

Thicker Than Water is a MM urban fantasy romance featuring a smart-mouthed wolf shifter, who kicks arse and forgets to take names—because life’s too short for that admin sh*t!

Title: Thicker Than Water Author: Becca Seymour

Publisher: Rainbow Tree Publishing Release Date: March 14th 2020 Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex Pairing: Male/Male Length: 65000 Genre: Romance, Fantasy, urban fantasy romance, shifter romance

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Outcast operative in the Supernatural Investigation & Crime Bureau (SICB) Callen Blackheath finds himself doing what he does best: defying orders and giving his boss a headache in the thick of an operation he shouldn’t be in. And there’s no way he’s walking away, not when the investigation has become deadly personal.

Needing to protect the only family member he has left, this wolf shifter will do whatever it takes to stop the blood farms and destroy the dangerous drugs the vampires will kill for. But he doesn’t expect Liam “Thatch” Thatcher, the head of a special task force team, to receive a bite that pulls him into the centre of Callen’s world.

Bonded by memories and blood, together they navigate the operation that has wider reaches than they could ever imagine. And when it comes to matters of the heart, Callen knows in order to win, he needs to risk it all.

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🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.75 stars 🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5

Okay, O.M.G! From the opening sentence I was drawn in and couldn’t put this book down! From every twist and turn, every conspiracy and danger, this book had me on the edge of my seat and fully encased in its world. It’s one hell of a ride!!!

I loved the boldness of the characters, the unique shifter world with a delicate balance between shifters, vampires and humans and the awesome Sydney/Australian setting. There are of course a few (awesome) Australianisms, that might catch others out but I loved the Aussie humor and quick wit shining throughout this story.

I loved Callen. He is such a bold and dynamic characters, confident with a big heart and strives to protect, he can draw you into his world and what he is fighting for. From the introduction of Thatch, I was intrigued and he grew into someone more than I ever expected from first “meeting” him, which is amazing because I am very rarely surprised these days. The back and forth between Callen and Thatch is great and the sexual tension and lust between them is so steamy.

I expected Callen and Thatch to be a certain way and surprisingly got another. I loved the world weaved and the intricacies of this story blew my mind! I look forward to more in this world and can’t wait for the next one! So good. A highly recommended adventure!!

Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit http://blog.bookstattoosandtea.com 📚!

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Excerpt

Heat rippled over my skin. The singed scent of hair clogged my ability to track the way out, leaving me momentarily cursing my stubbornness for going this alone. My boss would never let me live it down if I got myself charred to a crisp or killed. At least the latter would mean I wouldn’t have to listen to his pompous spiel about following protocol. The dick had it out for me. He had since I’d joined this team three years ago, and despite my success rate on missions, he hadn’t taken kindly to the son of the Blackheath alpha joining the Supernatural Investigation & Crime Bureau.

Creaking beams followed by the crash of timber had me blinking hard against the blackening smoke. There had to be a way out. While Brent, my division leader, thought I was foolhardy—or perhaps simply a fool—I had studied the schematics of the lab prior to entering. What I hadn’t planned for was Jonas Cartwright to set the damn thing on fire with me in it.

Focussed on pushing my senses beyond the sound of the licking fire and groaning foundations, I closed my eyes, hoping for a ripple, something, anything that would get me out of this situation. Two beats, three, four… but nothing. I could either stay planted, hoping a miracle would happen, or I could act. Neither seemed like a smart move but staying put and being roasted was not an option. The raw heat travelling up my arms, removing my hairs along the way, cried out for my retreat.

Action it was.

In barely a split second, my eyes shifted. While the heightened sight wouldn’t help with the smoke, the electricity had been tripped by the fire, and I needed all the help I could get.

I cursed up a storm in my head as I raced the way I’d come. With a leap over a toppled cabinet, a swerve away from the licks of fire trailing along workstation dividers, I swore the whole time I would find Cartwright and put him to ground once and for all. The way ahead was blocked, and no barrelling through would solve that. I screeched to a stop. “Shit.” I looked left and right, thinking hard about the drawings I’d glanced at ten seconds before entering the lab. Screw Brent and his demands for being well-prepared. I had no doubt my name, Callen, was already a regular curse from him. This would simply give him more ammunition. It was better than him seething my surname, Blackheath, I supposed, but still, ten seconds of my eyes roaming over the layout was as good as studying in my world.

Before I could figure out my next move, a small scrape of metal to my left had me turning in that direction. I seriously hoped I wasn’t racing towards more flames, but the sound was distinctive, controlled.

On reaching a hallway I didn’t recognise, I stumbled. “What the hell?” At the end of the darkened hallway was a glass door. While smoke spiralled through the space, it wasn’t as black, the fire not yet having reached the area. I crouched low to avoid the white smoke, my eyes focussed on the hand scratching against the glass door. Blood smeared with every gentle swipe, the movement slowing down.

No one was supposed to be here. Ignoring the fact that Cartwright had blown my half-arsed recon out of the window and taken me by surprise, there seriously shouldn’t have been anyone else on site. An unfamiliar edge of panic flared to life in my chest. This was not good.

I charged towards the glass, stopping short of barrelling into it to try the handle. It wouldn’t have been the first time I’d broken down a door unnecessarily. I didn’t want to crash through a glass door unless I had to. While I healed quickly, shards of glass cutting through my skin still hurt something fierce.

Testing the handle with one hand, I hit the glass lower down, trying to get the attention of the person attempting to get out. Their bloody hand peeking out a white lab coat twitched at the loud thud. “Shit,” I grumbled. The door was locked. “Hey.” I beat against the glass panel harder. It was partially misted for privacy, and visibility was unclear. Unable to tell who was on the other side or whether the smoke had breached the room from another direction, for once, I considered my options.

“Hey.” I tried again, my hand smacking the glass harder, not yet intending to break through. “Can you hear me?” Steadying my breath took concentration, but I needed to listen carefully.

“Code.” The voice was gravelly. “P-Panel.”

I searched quickly and found a panel off to my right. “I need the code.” Each word came out calm and clear. Panicking now could possibly get us both killed.

“Five.” A cough wracked through him, loud and sounding painful. I squinted, wondering what the hell this guy had been through. “Two. Seven. Seven. Four. Nine.”

I hit the numbers as he said them.

“Hash,” he finished, and the door clicked, swinging open when the guy fell against it. He landed on the floor.

Unconscious at my feet, the man was sprawled on his front. I tugged him to the side. With no idea where we were, I couldn’t simply throw the guy over my shoulder and start charging around, hitting dead ends and burning doors wherever we went. Decision made, I cast a quick glance at the man. Wet blood covered his rich black skin, but his moving chest indicated he was breathing. Barely. Christ, I hoped he didn’t die on me. After a final glance, I rushed into the unlocked room. Just because it had been sealed from the inside didn’t mean I wouldn’t be able to get through another exit.

A door on the opposite side of the room was my target. I headed straight there, spotting vials and another room off to my right. Before I reached the exit, the scent hit me. Blood, and it wasn’t from the unconscious lab tech in the hallway. I took a tentative step in the direction the scent came from, bile already churning in my gut.

No. It couldn’t be.

Another step forward, and I held my breath, not wanting to believe it could be true.

Wide-eyed, I gasped for breath, then regretted the action immediately. Metallic, familiar, and dead. The combination of the three threatened to buckle my knees. Unable to look away, I stared hard, hating every second. But I had to do this. Flesh, torn muscle, mutilated claws; the image seared itself into my mind. Once there, a shockwave of pain ripped through me.

No.

This time I let my knees go and landed on the floor, my knee finding the blood the same shade of my own. It was her. Hazel. My baby sister.

Becca Seymour lives and breathes all things book related. Usually with at least three books being read and two WiPs being written at the same time, life is merrily hectic. She tends to do nothing by halves so happily seeks the craziness and busyness life offers.

Living on her small property in Queensland with her human family as well as her animal family of cows, chooks, and dogs, Becca appreciates the beauty of the world around her and is a believer that love truly is love.

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  Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: Thicker Than Water by Becca Seymour Thicker Than Water is a MM urban fantasy romance featuring a smart-mouthed wolf shifter, who kicks arse and forgets to take names—because life’s too short for that admin sh*t!

[wispyatomica]

The Rabbit, The Rat, and the Hog - (Chapter Two)

Chapter Two - The Wasteland Deployment

Want to catch up or read the full fanfic? Check out the Archive!

Apocalyptic was the only way to describe it: the Australian outback. A land untouched by any formal means of society since the destruction of the omnium nearly two decades prior. The former glorious cities and towns were all but destroyed; for this country the omnic crisis struck the worst.

Towns lay in complete waste, buildings broken and decaying, covered with dust. A layer of sky that was formerly blue now seemed to be a shade of dark gray, despite the sun still blazing down. The air was hot and heavy to any foreigner in the area. A heavy musk that few could get past aside from those exposed to it for untold years. The people who survived turned the country upside down, taking their rage against the omnics and using it to form a cut throat society of bandits and theives: The Junkers. The world knew of the existence of the society, and yet due to the high levels of radiation, not even the most sophisticated of militaries would dare to step foot to intervene. The Junker way of life had been going on for nearly two decades, a constant struggle for survival in a harsh land that new no mercy to anybody who inhabited it.

Sydney, Australia was one of the few places spared by the omnium’s destruction. Laying on the coast line, radiation levels were minimal and the few scattered coastal cities were able to rebuild themselves and start a new, though the threat of Junkers was always present. Police task forces were doubled on Sydney’s borders, and after many years the Junkers began to see less and less point in attempting to steal from the city, instead choosing the smaller and weaker towns and communities on the coastline. It was a long trip from their central home of Junkertown, located close to the omnium’s destruction, in the central part of Australia. It was here that Junkers lived in a constant state of decay and war.

For most of the world, the society of Junkers was hardly a threat, until two members dared to venture out into the world, starting an international crime spree. Those two were Jamison Fawkes, and Mako Rutledge, better known as Junkrat and Roadhog respectively.

Their crime spree saw no limits ranging from murder and theft, to arson. Their crime spree saw no end in sight, and all of the spoils of their scores were kept in a base just beyond the borders of Junkertown. An abandoned factory closer to the omnium that was hidden in a rocky outcropping, it was here that the two made their choices for scores as well as stayed during their breaks, however brief they were.

Junkrat was the unofficial leader of the duo, his personality built around his unsatiable love for explosives and destruction, no doubt fueled by life in the wastelands. Chaotic and unpredictable was the only way to describe his personality. His mood could swing from an eerie calm, to an uncontrollable rage in a moment’s notice. Crazed laughter was characteristic of him, always cackling and laughing in the few existing news footages of the crime spree of him and his partner.

Jamison Fawkes stood at six and a half feet tall with an abnormally thin and muscular build. His skin was tanned from exposure to sun, singed with gunpowder and soot, the signature components of his volatile arsenal of weaponry. Jamison never wore a shirt, instead opting for backpack straps with pipe bombs attached to them and a pair of cargo shorts embroidered with his own artworks. Each pimp bomb attached to the straps on his chest sported a crude smiley face with crossed out eyes, no doubt art done by the maker himself. On his back was his most volatile weapon, a massive spiked tire that weighed more than Junkrat himself.  Atop his head rested patchy blonde hair, balding in some spots towards the top where luckily it was not always visible. The locks of blonde had a characteristic unlike anything seen before, a near constant smolder with complementary embers trailing off every so often.

The most outstanding of  his features, was the lack of his right limbs. A mechanical arm replaced the missing one on his right side from the elbow down, a delicate prosthetic created by the Junker himself in wake of a bombing accident. His missing leg was replaced with a crude peg leg, no doubt put together from spare parts in scrap heaps from scattered places across the wasteland, and yet fully functional to the Junker. The prosthetics he sported were detailed with a burnt orange color, embroidered with rust from exposure to various liquids used during the creation of his many pipe bombs and concussion mines.

In a stark contrast to his companion, Mako Rutledge was cold and methodical. To any who encountered him, he was the embodiment of a true sociopathic killer. A factor of the environment he was forced to cope with, Roadhog became his new identity, one that allowed him to become a ruthless and efficient killing machine. In the years after the omnic crisis, he wanted nothing more than a simple life in Australia, until the omnics pushed him and many others out of their homes. The outrage built inside of him from there, and in the years following the omnium’s destruction, he turned to those who had taken everything he wanted away from him, the omnics. His hatred for the race was a shared quality of his new partner Junkrat. When Roadhog had encountered Junkrat on his own in the wasteland and attempted to subdue him for the reward stapled to his head, the two split a deal with Roadhog becoming Junkrat’s new bodyguard.

Mako stood at near seven foot eight inches tall with a heavy build. Similar to his partner, he did not wear a shirt, sporting a much thicker set of backpack straps to hold up the arsenal at his back. A large machete laid in the middle of his back, where the straps attached to the rear of his darkened camouflaged cargo pants, holding up a heavy chain winch with a large hook attached to it. Contrasting his smaller companion, he sported a large tattoo across his abdomen, a cutesy pig face surrounded by flames and engine parts for a motorcycle. The words “Wild Hog Power” were written in ribbon above and below the signature pig, one that had been the speculated reasoning behind his new alias.

The duo typically returned to their home base in the wasted Australian outback after long periods on the run in other countries from their never ending crime spree. Only small periods of relax and recollection were allowed living their dangerous lifestyle. They never wanted to stick around their secretive base for too long, lest they be discovered by the other Junkers and bounty hunters strewn across the outback searching for them both.

“Oi Roadie, Did ya hear about that new form’a show in the town?” Junkrat inquired as he hummed at a crude work desk, sketching up a new design for his concussion mine.

Roadhog often responded to Junkrat with grunts, and this was no exception. He shook his head and responded with a deep sounding grunt.

“Well I heard that it’s battling mech units! Like old scrap heaps of omnics put together ta see which is tha superior! Wanna go check it out soon?”

“Not a good idea.”

“Not a good idea? Have I ever steered you wrong Roadie? Since when would I, Jamison Fawkes, have a bad idea!” He cackled.

“Plenty of times.”

“Oi!”

A laugh escaped from Roadhog briefly, as Junkrat continued to argue with his companion while fiddling with tools and parts around his desk, throwing papers out of his way and attempting to build the new concussion mine schematic.

----------------------------------------------------------------

“Of all the places that we had to get deployed, it had to be here. Why couldn’t it have been Brazil? I could have met Lúcio!” Hana complained to one of her companions. The young South Korean army recruit was not at all against helping her country, however, she was against going to the middle of nowhere for practically no reason at all. The friend responded to her, “I know Hana, but we’ve got a recon mission. Captain Jun-Seo wanted his best soldiers to investigate the recent omnic attack on Australia, it could potentially have something to do with the titan that threatens our home.”

“Yeah I know Sumi, I read the report before I boarded the boat. I just don’t understand why he sent us. He knows how we are on the battlefield, it would have been a better idea for us to actually go fight some omnics instead of investigate why they attacked here.”

Hana sighed as she moved from her chair, her team was composed of her friend Sumi and two other newer recruits who had shown excellence in the battle field. The group of four was to survey the damage caused by the omnics and follow up with survivors to discover if there was anything unusual about this attack. It was an extremely lack luster mission that required their team to blend in with the natives, meaning they would only use their MEKA units in case of an extreme emergency. Their suits were to be left on the dock of their ship, which would stay ported in Sydney, Australia for three weeks under a constant supervision, with only the pilots able to access their storage room.

There was a loud siren that blared from the bridge of their military barge, calling the recruits to its location for a final review of their mission from the Captain himself. Captain Jun-Seo was on a video projection screen when his four soldiers entered the room and gave him a proper military salute.

The mission briefing was very straight forward for the four person team, two people were to remain on the Australian military base where their ship was docked at all times, while the other two were to investigate the source of the omnic attack along with Australian work forces. Hana could not bother herself to understand the politics that allowed this strange alliance to take place, that was a part of the job that she refused to ever become a part of. Once their briefing was over, the team moved to the common room of their ship, discussing how their shifts would be broken up over the course of their three week deployment. They eventually decided on each of the new recruits being grouped up with either Hana or Sumi for at least the first week, that way the newbies, as Hana referred to them, could get adjusted to their new routine.

The first week went smoothly. Hana and Sumi alternated days on the ship versus days in the field with Australian militants. One thing that Hana couldn’t get used to was their particularly strange accents, it almost amused her the way they said some of the most common words. She had to stifle her laughter when she was on duty and working closely with them. When she was in the barracks, she often just watched the television and played games on her portable devices, which she almost always brought with her on deployments like this. Sumi was more methodical when it came to her days in the barracks, she would analyze any data they collected, even if the information proved useless. It was on a Saturday, closing the end of the first week when Hana was on an off duty day on the ship that something caught interest to her.

Flipping through the television stations in the mid afternoon provided her with a breaking news bulletin about a rampant attack on a robotics factory in Sydney. She paused the news story to hear out the report, suspicious that it could have been another omnic attack. Her suspicions were proved incorrect as the reporter provided security footage showing the assailants to be none other than the Junkers from central Australia. There was nobody notable in the footage, just images that asked viewers to call the police if they new who these criminals were. It was not the people who committed the crime that caught her attention however, it was the reasoning and the items stolen in the attack that did.

“Authorities on scene have reported that among the damage to the building, countless robotic parts were stolen. The parts ranged from simple framework to intricate circuit boards and wiring.”

“Huh, I wonder what they were actually after.” Hana contemplated, with the news reporter answering the question as if she heard it.

“Though we cannot confirm the reason for the attack, authorities suspect that the Junkers are increasing their attacks on robotics factories and other hardware stores in and around Sydney to steal parts for their newest form of deadly entertainment: Mech Battles.” “Mech battles?” Hana inquired, her posture changing drastically as she sat up right on the couch and leaned in towards the broadcast.

“While access to Junkertown, the stronghold of these vicious criminals is virtually impossible, some undercover authorities at the Sydney Police Department have managed to sneak their way into the city to try to put a stop to this way of life. One of those agents discovered the deadly new sport, warning all the city to be on high alert, should the form of entertainment turn to a force of destruction against us. We can only hope that authorities are able to put a stop to this and keep our city safe as they have for many years.”

The news reporter chimed out with a closing statement, but Hana Song didn’t pay attention to anything beyond the discovery of Mech battles in that desolate city known as Junkertown. She ran a hand through her hair, ruffling her bangs before sighing heavily. She was clad in a white tank top and a pair of black military pants as she moved from the barracks to her MEKA storage facility. She approached her MEKA, a standard model and color, without any of her discernable regalia and her signature pink paintjob. Captain Jun-Seo had ordered the change of MEKA in order to keep Hana from drawing attention to their military craft, something that a bright pink manned machine would most definitely do; the whole world knew who Hana Song is and what MEKA unit she piloted thanks to her combat live streams from her MEKA’s HUD. She gently patted the leg of the plain black painted machine, a small grin appearing on her cheek as a daring and potentially very stupid thought crossed her mind. “I am going to own all of those noobs.”

[allamericanroofing1]

How To Get The Perfect American Style Home In Australia

How To Get The Perfect American Style Home In Australia

A 2017 Domain article highlighted a growing love and demand of America-style houses in Australia. South East Queensland in particular was facing a shortage of Hamptons-style houses in response to growing popularity. Across Brisbane and both Gold and Sunshine Coast, these homes were in high demand and low supply.

But why are American-style homes becoming so popular here? What is it about them that buyers are finding attractive? What makes them so at home in Australia, so far away from their place of origin?

We’ll take a look at two of the most popular styles of American homes, their key features, and what to look out for to get that truly authentic look.

1: Hamptons Style

Since we mentioned it in the introduction, we’ll start with the Hamptons style of home.

A Hamptons-style home is a home of contradiction; it’s effortless, relaxed, and casual, but at the same time, timeless and sophisticated. It’s at once a home that’s very beautifully designed, but not so immaculate that you feel like you’re living in an Ikea catalogue.

Named after the popular seaside community in Long Island, Hamptons style homes have high pitched roofs and broad, open interiors. You’ll usually find them as 2 storey houses rather than single level.

Designed to embrace the bohemian comfort and relaxation of beach living, it’s not hard to see why the beach-loving population of SE Queensland has fallen hard for this design.

Beyond Queensland, the style is also incredibly popular — and lucrative — in Sydney. Hamptons-style homes have been selling for upwards of $3.4 million in the city. Many real estate agents are loving the design, as they’re finding them incredibly easy to sell.

Hamptons home interiors typically feature

        Gable style roof with large balconies

        Extensive use of a crisp white palette with smatterings of pale blues and soft greys

        Timber wall paneling and dado rails

        Timber flooring

        Shutters and sheer curtains

        Pendant lighting

        Ornate tapware

        Tiling in bathrooms and on splashbacks – pressed metal is popular

        Marble or stone benchtops

        Country or shaker style cupboards

        Lantern-style lighting externally

        Lots of gorgeous soft furnishings – cushions and throw rugs

Don’t think that the homes are only suitable for coastal communities. With their open planning, high roofs, and laidback styling, they’re just as welcome in outer suburbs, in rural communities, just as they are at the sea shore.

This helps contribute to the Hamptons style’s popularity across the country. Whether you’re spending your mornings waking up to the ocean breeze, or out in the country, the Hamptons style is a house that makes a lovely home.

2: Cape Cod Style Home

Where Hamptons-style homes are typically dual level, Cape Cod style homes are usually single-level designs.

Image Source

This style of home was brought to America from English puritans, and you can see the farm cottage roots in its appearance. These homes were designed to withstand the stormy, dark weather of Cape Cod. For example, the steep, high-pitched roof is meant to prevent snow and ice from building up — admittedly not something most Australians have to worry about, even in the colder southern reaches.

Like the Hamptons-style above, open planned, relaxed living is key here. Elegant and laid back; stylish but liveable. The Cape Cod design is meant to house a family, and it feels like it.

Cape Cod style homes are popular across Australia. Like the Hamptons, they’re particularly attractive to beachside and rural areas. Developers and real estate agents are finding it difficult to meet up with the demand for the style. Many property owners are even buying homes to strip them down and build a Cape Cod style in its place.

Cape Cod style homes often feature

Symmetrical exteriors.

Low ceilings — intended to conserve heat, but modern designs (or those in Australia) often feature higher ceilings than traditional.

Gabled dormers

Double-hung windows with shutters

A central hall inside around which other rooms are laid out

Clean lines with little aesthetic detailing

Bedrooms in dormers or under gables.

There are certainly more types of American homes, but these two standouts appear to be taking the imagination of Australian home buyers and property developers by storm.

Yet, it’s one thing to get the right design of house. For a truly American experience, there’s actually something a little more important than just the layout.

The Authentic American-Style Finishing Touch

Look at the roof of any home in Australia and what do you see?

Typically, tin or tile. They’re the two most common roofing materials in the country.

Now look at roofs in America. Those are tiled too, right?

Surprise; they’re not.

American homes almost overwhelmingly use GAF asphalt roof shingles.

In Australia, most try and capture the look by using tile – but it rarely works. While tin is more suited to a rural style of home rather than an American style.

For a genuine American style of home, nothing else comes close to capturing the perfect look.

Asphalt roof shingles have a distinct look made of interlocking rectangles of different shades of grey. Nothing else quite looks like them.

GAF are the largest suppliers of roof shingles in the United States of America. More homes in that country have GAF shingles than there are houses in Australia. If you’re looking to get the authentic finishing touch for style and reliability, you want the best — and GAF is the best.

GAF asphalt roof shingles don’t just look great; they’re a sturdy, reliable roofing material that can withstand the harshest Australian weather. GAF also supplies the other roofing materials you need to put together a beautiful asphalt shingle roof, such as drip edge and flashing.

So long as roof shingles are installed properly, you’ll enjoy maximum safety and comfort combined with distinct aesthetics for years to come.

The post How To Get The Perfect American Style Home In Australia appeared first on Roof Shingles For Australian Homes.

from Roof Shingles For Australian Homes https://ift.tt/2mqvEvE

[graciedroweuk]

FEATHER/MICROBLADE EYEBROW TATTOO, LIP TATTOO & LASH LIFT REVIEW!!

47 — FL to LA to AZ to UT into NY

I missed you. B U S I N E : To Business and Branding purposes please vanessa@jamesgrant.com For Public Relations please contact vanessa@jamesgrant.com STAY CONNECTED WITH ME: Snapchat: hi.nic Instagram: nicoleguerriero -… …

06-02-2018 21:57

Being Shy For After & Feeling Comfortable With Myself | M

I frankly wouldn\’t be here without you guys. I love you. Find me on – INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond SECOND INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond_unfiltered SNAPCHAT – shani grimmond TWITTER – shani grimmond FACEBOOK -… …

05-02-2018 21:57

DOES IT EVEN WORK”! ???? Juvalips Lip Plumper Machine!

Plumper lips with no shots” Lets see if that even works… The ad was tracking and stalking me I thought it’d be interesting to try! Have you tried it””” ? XOBEAUTY SWATCHES https://www.youtube.com/watch”v=7k6-RPcWAWU&=589s ? NEW VLOGS… …

05-02-2018 21:57

LIP SWATCHES | Colourpop LUX LIPSTICKS + Review!

Hey, Guys! (WATCH IN HD) Here is a video in which I swatch each one of the NEW Colourpop Lux Lipsticks in my lips & I offer you my review/thoughts on these! I hope you guys like! Thank you for watching! xoxo! (I don\’t understand why I\’m missing a chunk of… …

05-02-2018 21:57

YOUTUBE SENT ME A SURPRISE & APPLE SENT ME A BROKEN PHONE |

? SHOP my innocence bracelets ? https://shop.bonvitastyle.com ? ? ? THUMBS UP for more GLAM tutorials ? ? ? Expand me to get more goodness ??? Find me on: ? INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/KaushalBeauty ? SNAPCHAT:… …

04-02-2018 21:58

Your Own Hair Styling Routine | Messy & Textured!

Take a Look at my T-shirt! http://bit.ly/2DOmHA6 Gold Bracelet http://bit.ly/2DV5t41 ———— MAKEUP I?M WEARING: Armani Luminous Silk Foundation http://bit.ly/2ntW24A Glossier Boy Brow http://bit.ly/2EpPrA2 Fenty… …

04-02-2018 21:58

STAYING AT THE BEST LUXURY RESORT IN THE MALDIVES!

Travel diary of the most astounding, luxury and Amazing Visit to Soneva Jani at the Maldives using Benefit Cosmetics for the launching of Bad Gal BANG mascara! Vlog Week #3 :-RRB- ? Social Media ? ? Blog: https://danimansutti.com/ ? Shop:… …

04-02-2018 21:55

HOW TO: BEAUTY LIGHTING SECRETS | DESI PERKINS

HOW TO: Beauty light secrets and studio tour MY CAMERA SETTINGS: WHITE BALANCE ON KELVIN: 5300-5600. ISO: 640-800. Shutter speed: 50. Aperture: 6.3 PICTURE STYLE: Standard. FHD: 23.98 ALL-I MAKEUP COLLECTION AND ORGANIZATION |… …

03-02-2018 21:55

HOW TO: YOUTUBE BEAUTY LIGHTING SECRETS | DESI PERKINS

HOW TO: YOUTUBE BEAUTY LIGHTING SECRETS ?? ?? ?? Links to our equipment are below ?? ?? ?? Just like and pertains to Desi ?? http://bit.ly/desiperkins Steven\’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/stevenperkins/ MAKEUP COLLECTION AND ORGANIZATION |… …

04-02-2018 21:58

MY FLAWLESS & NATURAL SCULPTED DRUGSTORE ROUTINE!! I Nina Ve

SHOP THE RANGE BELOW! https://www.superdrug.com/brandshop/loreal-makeup/infallible-shaping-kits/kits WHERE ELSE TO FIND ME” SHOP ” http://ninavee.co.uk/shop/ INSTAGRAM ” www.instagram.com/theninavee TWITTER “… …

02-02-2018 21:53

CHATTY EVERYDAY WINTER MAKEUP ROUTINE | I Covet Thee

Hey everyone. . I\’m back! ?? Catch up & get ready with me using a more moderate everyday Winter makeup pattern! + SUBSCRIBE HERE // http://bit.ly/1KIpZBE New movies on Friday & Monday! View my final video HERE -… …

02-02-2018 21:56

EASY Cut Crease with my Ciate Palette & Pixi Fairy Lights!

OMG I\’m looking for my own honeymoon rn! Follow me on instagram to see what Seba and I’m around – @ChloeMorello @SebaMecha Hope you love this video I filmed before we left, I always utilize my own Ciate London Beauty Haul Vol 2; the color, liner and liquid lipstick,… …

02-02-2018 21:53

Anastasia x Amrezy | AMREZY HIGHLIGHTER | First Impressions

Hey, Guys! (WATCH IN HD) Here is a video where I try about the NEW AMREZY X ABH HIGHLIGHT & provide you my first impressions! I hope you like! Thank you for watching! xoxo! Products I Mentioned: Anastasia Beverly Hills x Amrezy “Amrezy… …

02-02-2018 21:53

Chit Chat Getting Ready ? GEMSTONE Collection ? Turquoise Makeup

Todays Chit Chat GRWM is a jewel rock look, including golds and turquoise! Also showing how Skindinavia Finishing Spray gets my makeup last through the fitness center! Code to get 25% off: Shaaanxo http://skindinavia.com **For AUS:… …

01-02-2018 21:58

Das Esspensive Swatches, Invisalign + Your Own Hair | Random Rambl

Hey, Guys! (WATCH IN HD) Here is a random rambles video where I talk about some new stuff going on! I hope you like! Thank you for watching! xoxo! LIMITED EDITION DAS ESSPENSIVE XXVI NOW AVAILABLE: https://www.klpolish.com Yessey?s IG-… …

01-02-2018 21:58

Non Beauty Favorites | Nicole Guerriero

Thought I\’d only throw some of my favourite non beauty items at you and see what you thought! :-RRB- B U S I N E S: To Business and Branding purposes please vanessa@jamesgrant.com To Public Relations please call… …

01-02-2018 21:58

I’M BACK IN THE MALDIVES! | VLOG!

SOOOO HAPPY TO BE BACK! Find me on – INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond SECOND INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond_unfiltered SNAPCHAT – shani grimmond TWITTER – shani grimmond FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/xokashani SG THE LABEL… …

31-01-2018 21:58

January Favorites | 2018

Hey, Guys! (WATCH IN HD) Here?s a video in which I walk you through all my favourite makeup must haves in the last month! I hope you like! Thank you for watching! xoxo! PLEASE DONT FORGET TO CHECK OUT MY SISTERS JEWELRY LINE! THE K IM WEARING… …

31-01-2018 21:58

Snatching Wigs In The Beach (VLOG) ? Kris Fox

So I Decided To Vlog My Entire Day When Filming The New Dance Intro! Hope You Enjoy This Behind The Scenes Look At What My Friends And I Got To. ? TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS TO BE UPDATED ? Social Media Instagram:… …

31-01-2018 21:57

IT FINALLY ARRIVED! + Booty Workout + Decluttering Makeup Co

In this weeks vlog I’ve a clothing haul from Miss Pap, perform a bunch of speed cleans, declutter and organise my makeup collection, assemble my gaming computer and desk, show you some healthy food, my existing booty routine, take you along with me to London… …

30-01-2018 21:56

FULL FACE ONLY USING DRUGSTORE MAKEUP | Nicole Guerriero

Total face using just pharmacy makeup was too straightforward. What\’s your favourite product out right now in the pharmacy” I\’m still on the hunt for all the foundations that you guys mentioned! I\’ll be searching NY when I\’m there this weekend! B U.. . …

30-01-2018 21:56

XL JENGA W/ JESSISMILES | Kat Chats

DISCLAIMER: There IS cursing in this video! If you don\’t like bad words or ingesting type of movies, I totally understand!!!! Just be sure to come back Wednesday! I understand these kinds of movies are not right for everyone so I only want to provide a.. . …

30-01-2018 21:56

COLOR CHANGING HEAT-ACTIVATED HIGHLIGHTER””

Make sure you subscribe to my own channel and hit the notification bell, and that means that you don?t miss any of my new videos ? http://bit.ly/SubscribeNikkieTutorials THIS IS NOT A JOKE? Now I?m testing out a COLOR CHANGING, HEAT-ACTIVATED highlighter!!! This… …

30-01-2018 21:56

MY NEW HOLY GRAILS! ?? January Favorites ? Makeup, Body & Sk

Listed below are my current favorites! Including new holy grail eyeliner, some fav face and body products and plenty of makeup! Whats ur fav merchandise of the month”” ? NEW XOBEAUTY SHADE SWATCHES https://www.youtube.com/watch”v=7k6-RPcWAWU&=577s ? NEW… …

29-01-2018 21:55

PRIVATE JETTIN WITH MY BESTIES | VLOG

Hey babes! Here is my own Sydney vlog. Enjoy xxx Locate me on – INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond SECOND INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond_unfiltered SNAPCHAT – shani grimmond TWITTER – shani grimmond FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/xokashani SG THE… …

28-01-2018 22:01

Two Days in Morocco | Estée Lalonde | AD

This is a paid advertorial. _________________ See some of the photographs I took on this trip! Http://www.esteelalonde.com/discovering-argan-oil-with-garnier/ Know more about the girls\’s amalgamated here:… …

28-01-2018 22:05

NATURAL EVERYDAY FLAWLESS MAKEUP | DESI PERKINS

Just like and Subscribe ?? http://bit.ly/desiperkins ?? PRODUCTS MENTIONED WITH PRICE POINTS: ?? FACE: NARS NATURAL RADIANT LONGWEAR FOUNDATION (SHADE Employed IN VIDEO: BARCELONA) $49 USD http://bit.ly/2DQupwD NARS RADIANT CREAMY CONCEALER ? … …

28-01-2018 22:01

BEST FOUNDATION EVER”! TARTE SHAPE TAPE FOUNDATION!! I

WHERE ELSE TO FIND ME” SHOP ” http://ninavee.co.uk/shop/ INSTAGRAM ” www.instagram.com/theninavee TWITTER ” www.twitter.com/theninavee SNAPCHAT ” TheNinaVee BUSINESS EMAIL ” pr@theninavee.co.uk MY FAVE BRUSHES ” Morphe M507 (Nose… …

27-01-2018 21:58

No Mirror Makeup Challenge | Nicole Guerriero

Scariest portion of the No Makeup Mirror Challenge” Placing on falsies & lashes that are lower. Maybe you have had to put your makeup on using a mirror” * Turns out I’ve done this video hahahah nearly 6 decades ago. Shoutout to my journey or expires that… …

27-01-2018 21:58

WET N WILD vs. YSL ?? Foundation Dupe Battle! ? WEAR TEST

Showing you my suggestion for your Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation – the YSL Fusion Ink Foundation! Also showing you the way both wear throughout the day! Did you like this” ? NEW XOBEAUTY LIPSTICKS https://www.youtube.com/watch”v=7k6-RPcWAWU&=595s ? … …

27-01-2018 21:58

BEST OF COLOURPOP | My Favorite Products – 2018

Hey, Guys! (WATCH IN HD) Here is a video in which I walk you through Coloupops BEST PRODUCTS (WITH LIP SWATCHES TOO)I hope you like! Thank you for watching! xoxo! GET MY FAVORITES FOR 20% OFF FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS:… …

26-01-2018 21:59

GRWM For Your Dickuah ? Kris Fox

Wow Look, It\’s A Wild Danger Woman Out To Ya Daddies Inheritance! Hi 2K18 How You Doing” The Queen Is Back And Ready To Slay Ya Wigs Awayuah! ? TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS TO BE UPDATED ? Social Media Instagram:… …

26-01-2018 21:57

Neutral Half Cut Crease Look | Nicole Guerriero

A bit obsessed over a half cut crease these days. :-RRB- Mixing All My Foundations Collectively — https://www.youtube.com/watch”v=CKEPv-GDZWE&feature=youtu.be B U S I N E S: To Business and Branding purposes… …

25-01-2018 22:02

January Ipsy Bags (Attempt On Design) | 2018

Hey, Guys! (WATCH IN HD) Here is a video in which I show you whats within my January Ipsy Glam Bag & I try on some products! I hope you like! xoxo! IPSY: https://www.ipsy.com Products Inside Your Bags: Dermelect Microfacial Exfoliating Masque… …

24-01-2018 21:58

HAMISH’S SCAM ? Vlog 454

We believed Hamish got conned (funny story), upgraded scrub/moisturiser/serum routine, supplements. I get all my Teami tea and the mask and wash from http://www.teamiblends.com and you may utilize code – SHANH to get 20% off! I strongly recommend the… …

24-01-2018 21:58

Pre-Wedding Makeup Regular! Daily Makeup Look w Pixi, Perric

Hey men! I filmed this in the feverish lead up into the wedding, which occurred last friday (Check out the pics in my instagram @chlomorello & my husbands @sebamecha!!) , and I trust you enjoy this fast look appropriate for before a big occasion, or even… …

24-01-2018 21:58

Total Face Using ONLY One Eyeshadow Palette | Challenge

Find me on – INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond SECOND INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond_unfiltered SNAPCHAT – shani grimmond TWITTER – shani grimmond FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/xokashani SG THE LABEL http://www.sgthelabel.com/ Instagram -… …

23-01-2018 21:56

NEW xoBeauty Lip Shades! ? LIP SWATCHES ?? Luxe Liquid & Mat

Swatching the COMPLETE selection of xoBeauty lipsticks containing 5 new matte shades and 4 new vegan liquids! I trust you love them I worked hard! ? DRUGSTORE AMAZING FOUNDATION https://www.youtube.com/watch”v=NCJUpiLA8Y0&=29s ? NEW VLOGS… …

23-01-2018 21:56

This Lupus Advocate Finds Beauty in Infection | Allure

Lupus advocate Jokiva Bellard (@_indianrosee) opens up about how she conquered the conflicts of living with Lupus and found how to sense beauty in the face of life-threatening depression and illness. Still haven?t subscribed to Allure on… …

23-01-2018 21:54

MIXING ALL MY FOUNDATION TOGETHER + PRIMER, CONCEALER & HIGH

I mixed all my makeup together and I\’m not angry at the way it turned out. Can you try it outside” *I only realized I just put 10 primers . I\’m gont attribute my claws. Channel\’s mentioned: Alissa Ashley –… …

23-01-2018 21:57

My Radiant Glow Foundation Routine | Jaclyn Hill

Here\’s a new video – my glowing glow foundation pattern! ? SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL? http://goo.gl/3Awmn8 ? ? ? DISCOUNT CODES? ? ? MORPHE BRUSHES: http://morphebrushes.com/index.php”dispatch=categories.view&category_id=358 USE CODE:… …

23-01-2018 21:57

I’ve something to tell you…

WEEKLY VLOG 1 IS HERE! I show you my booty workout, just take you grocery shopping with me, visit Talia and update you in my personal life :-RRB- ? Social Media ? ? Blog: https://danimansutti.com/ ? Shop: http://danibeauty.com/ ? Vlog / Gaming Channel:… …

22-01-2018 22:00

FULL FACE of LOW RATED MAKEUP ?? Mecca!

Testing the bad and worst makeup in the Mecca! I wanted to determine whether the reviews were so accurate, so here’s a very first impression complete face of \’poor makeup\’! :-RRB- ? KISSME LIP SWATCH VID https://www.youtube.com/watch”v=QvO1eGaPorE&=36s ? NEW VLOGS… …

22-01-2018 22:00

Automobile Ride Chats With Shani | Catchin Up VLOG

Hi my love! Here’s a vlog I filmed a week. Enjoy!!! Xxx Find me on – INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond SECOND INSTAGRAM – shanigrimmond_unfiltered SNAPCHAT – shani grimmond TWITTER – shani grimmond FACEBOOK -… …

21-01-2018 22:05

MY HOUSE TOUR!

HEY! I am quite excited to share my home / home tour with you today – I loved sharing my own apartment tour with you annually, and today I\’m really pleased to show you my own fantasy home tour! :-RRB- ? Social Media ? ? Blog: https://danimansutti.com/ ? Shop:… …

21-01-2018 22:05

BEST OF BEAUTY 2017 MAKEUP TUTORIAL !!

? SHOP my innocence bracelets ? https://shop.bonvitastyle.com ? ? ? THUMBS UP for more FAVOURITES videos ? ? ? Expand me to get more goodness ??? Find me on: ? INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/KaushalBeauty ? SNAPCHAT:… …

21-01-2018 22:09

HOW I GREW OUT MY NAILS | DESI PERKINS

Just like and Subscribe ?? http://bit.ly/desiperkins ? EBATES How I Get Cash back when I Shop Online: So that you can get Cash Back you need to shop through Ebates website http://ebates.com/desiperkins ?? PRODUCTS MENTIONED: ?? OPI NAIL POLISH -… …

21-01-2018 22:05

[tandyglennie-blog]

Cleaning Marble Floors.

Floor tile is a sophisticated way to provide included appeal to your commercials and households. But this performs not signify you must rule out a reputed floor cleaning and also reconstruction provider for performing the activity from Terrazzo cleaning. This is actually given that marble is actually essentially a thick strong along with low warmth conduction buildings - it has a very long time to warm up. Because of this, marble floor covering is in great requirement in the tropics. The organic level split of slate can be refined as well as created, therefore floor covering slate might seem in other means depending upon the context. All backed-uped by our ONE HUNDRED% Refund Warranty Nu-Life's dedicated craftsmen are actually the leading specialists for marble flooring cleaning and also sprucing up. There are additionally abrasive and brightening grains that could be utilized to restore the marble flooring area, these could be more affordable option and also an appropriate budget system to accomplish a far better appearance than is actually presently there certainly, these will certainly not however offer you a entirely flat and perfect coating. Grinding Bristol marble is actually a procedure that is quite opportunity consuming; you don't simply turn up along with all the gear and also possess no tip. All-natural stone from limestone is considered to become a high-end floor covering choice and is actually used in home and industrial spaces. Also, Pergo possesses now become the leading homeowner of floor covering worldwide, so you understand it is counted on worldwide. Wax sealants and cement filling is likewise yet another means of concealing all the cracks on your marble ceramic tile flooring. If you have any kind of questions relating to where and ways to use yellow pages online residential uk (ripreseperun-obiettivo.info), you can call us at our own web site. Aside from because T.R.I.M can refix loose tiles and drummy floor tiles in-situ, it practically deals with the requirement for elimination of installations and also expensive water re-proofing. A sturdy marble result porcelain ceramic tile the Hellas Marble flooring ceramic tile is excellent for rush hour places and sizable tasks due to its style. Thus before you get started scanning about, determine which form of flooring you will such as and the amount of years you organize to obtain out of it. Marble tiles applied wrong adhesives - the adhesive must be actually pliable to allow for tightening and also expansion. This may occur extremely effortlessly and also has to be actually stayed away from if possible considering that usually marble floor tiles are not economical to purchase. 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In order to get the most effective flooring prices, you'll should look through each dealers and retailers. Many of the floor finishes available such as polishing, dyeing, discoloration and also other attractive coatings can effortlessly be actually applied to brand new or existing floors. As these stratified rocks go through warmth and pressure, they recrystallize, forming marble. Our Botticino Rolled Marble is actually massively popular in kitchen areas and hallways with its own stunning used look whilst Bianco Carrara C Marble coming from Italy has been actually utilized for centuries for tough worktops as well as floor and is best for making a real, classic cooking area. The cost per floor tile will definitely differ considerably depending upon the product, measurements, design as well as top quality. Though Italy, Sydney and also Chicken are actually the nations well-known for their excellent and also natural marble floor, the Indian marbles also are fairly distinguished and aesthetic in the international market. It results from its own thick surface area that antigens and other bits that may create allergy receive inflamed, therefore, making that much less possible for all of them to stay on marble floorings, unlike in rugs. . Sophisticated Organic Stones delivers top rated and first class sandstone ceramic tiles for making attractive floor patterns designs If you are hunting for top quality stones including marble, limestone, sandstone etc, at that point remember to visit our company at! Laminate floor covering is actually additionally accessible in many styles and also trends and you can easily generate the exact same cozy atmosphere that you obtain along with hard wood floorings by making using of a likewise designed laminate floor. The distinct attributes like luster and also durability produce marble a prominent choice for lots of. Engineered marble is actually also much much less absorptive in comparison to normally happening marble and also will definitely sustain its appeal for a much longer time period of use. Although you will need to take care of it much like every other flooring, marble will definitely certainly not damage quickly. Flooring costs will vary around sellers as well as locations, so this is very important to remember this as well. In order to prevent scratch and stains, the floor and its own treatments have to be actually maintained clean. With such flexibility, you can effortlessly completely transform the floor from your establishment to one thing completely brand-new and also appealing; you may effortlessly throw out that rug that has been actually concealing the open holes and also gaps. Therefore, are sure that you mount the glass floor tiles adequately as well as use their measurements and also luster to renew your inside your home. Marble could be developed to generate a number of finishes, each one of which rely on that this is actually such a challenging element that this can be made use of to generate a quite smooth area. Make use of a barely moist sponge in cleansing it. You must scrub the marble ceramic tiles gently and ensure to clean that dry up until it is actually bright once more. See to it that after you have actually installed your porcelain flooring ceramic tiles that you wash it often if you want to create this last a lot longer. Our company even educate some others companies throughout the UK and our Instruction Academy is the best sought after in the business. Though white colored marble is actually extra commonly as well as largely used, other present-day different colors are also used today. Go to at to recognize additional regarding Granite Flooring Tiles, Granite Marble Distributors as well as Pebble ceramic tiles. The price from marble has actually been made reasonable to ensure individuals may afford this conveniently. Cement floor finishing could be done in shade or even be actually stained thus as to match various hues; the choices could consist of resemblance to slate, floor tiles or marble. For longer condition defense against this kind of complication, as well as to stay away from gunk coming from building up, securing this type of flooring is quite useful. Selecting just what sort of marble that you are actually going to make use of in your kitchen may provide you difficult time. Black Marble, including Negro Marquina, is actually a really soft limestone commonly wrong as a marble. They utilize cheap ruby dirt fertilized pads with commercial level floor cleaning devices as well as attempt to pass this equipment off as expert devices. This is this glazing or printing that gives the particular marble result or even marble appearance. Originating as a provider producing lacquered boards for the shipbuilding field, Alloc began creation from higher tension laminate floor in 1992. Condensation has an effect on stone, specifically marble areas which fall apart in damp ailments. Marble Master concentrates on Restoration as well as Refinishing from all forms of organic rock and consultancy services to Engineers, Restoration Companies as well as Interior Designers. When taking into consideration the price from tile as well as work, it pays to utilize an expert that has an excellent file and the endorsements to show this. As a result of the permanency from tile, needing to remove that and begin again due to an inexperienced service provider messing the work up may be a costly inconvenience. Floor tiles can be made off ceramic, which is a well-liked choice for all kinds of tiling.

[greatdrams]

Adam, The Whisky Pilgrim, visits some Tasmania Distilleries

I visit my fair share of distilleries. 52 in the last 18 months, if you're counting, which I reckon is reasonable going given I've had to take holiday for every one of them! One feature of these trips has been early starts. I've blearily awoken everywhere from wigwams to the front seat of cars; from Islay hotels to Invernesian sofas.

City centre of Sydney, however, is a new one.

This trip came about by chance. My little sister is studying in Australia this year; not fully sure why, as she normally studies Sciences at Nottingham... In any case, the upshot was that my parents and I found ourselves planning our first ever jaunt Down Under. I'd say that it was more about seeing Vicky than it was about getting a couple of weeks of sunshine and adventure, but the year I lived unvisited in Inverness and Dundee rather speaks for itself...

You've probably heard that Australia is in on the whisky scene by now. If you haven't, then where were you two weeks ago when I wrote my Starward review? That particular bottle came from Melbourne, but the place that gets really raved about by folks in the know, and by Soho hipsters who like to sound on-trend, is Tasmania.

So I dug my heels in when we were planning our trip. I wanted to get out to Tasmania for a few days, get amongst the whisky scene, and see what was being done and by whom. My mother, who was planning the trip as a General might a campaign, insisted that one day was all that could be spared.

Which led, a fortnight ago, to my alarm clock squawking at me in a Sydney hotel and to an early flight taking us for a rather intense day trip.

Such necessary brevity meant that I had to be selective on my tours, and that I couldn't roam too far from Hobart airport. I'd have loved to have seen what Peter Bignell does with his home-grown rye, but it would have taken too long. I'm intrigued by the notion of the stainless steel stills at Hellyer's Road - how do they get sulphur out of the spirit? - but again, not an option.

Eventually I made my choices, so shortly after touching down in beautiful Tasmania (whose scenery is like a fusion of Scotland and the Mediterranean) I found myself at the front gate of The Tasmania Distillery, home to Sullivan's Cove.

Of the 22 distilleries on Tasmania (yes, 22!) Sullivan's Cove is probably the most internationally famous. (I know it's The Tasmania Distillery, but I'm going to call it Sullivan's Cove from this point to avoid confusion.) There would have been some dispute about this until recently, but in 2014 one of their French Oak Single Casks was awarded World's Best Single Malt by the World Whiskies Awards.

Since then Tasmanian whisky in general, and Sullivan's Cove in particular, has enjoyed rather a moment in the sun. Names like Lark and Overeem have started appearing on the shelves of London bars for the hipsters to try once and then go back to Japanese. Demand has exceeded supply to the degree that three casks-worth of Overeem can sell out in 20 minutes, with a huge list of disappointed customers failing to get their hands on it.

And that supply is not a big one. Sullivan's Cove, I was told, is the second biggest distillery on the island, behind Hellyer's Road. Last year they filled about 18,000 bottles.

18,000! I can't begin to stress how small a quantity that is. But to give you some idea, Highland Park's recent 'Fire' edition, described as 'limited and exclusive' was 28,000 bottles. Kilchoman, who by Scottish standards are tiny, make comfortably over 100,000 litres of spirit per year.

The natural upshot of this size:demand ratio is some pretty ambitious pricing. Don't expect much of a Tasmanian whisky in the UK for under £100 a throw - and a few go to well beyond that. A bottle from that French Oak Single Cask range - not the award-winning barrel, naturally - retails somewhere in the region of £300.

If you've read my posts for Great Drams, or on their former high horse, The Whisky Pilgrim, you'll know my thoughts concerning price and value. I understand why it happens, of course, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. I've certainly never spent £300 on a bottle of whisky; couldn't afford to if I wanted to. And of course, a distillery charging those sort of prices has a very great deal to deliver. So I was fascinated to learn whether it did.

Funnily enough, the distillery I was initially put in mind of on arrival was the last Scottish place I visited - Wolfburn up in Thurso. Much like Wolfburn, Sullivan's Cove operate out of a small industrial unit. But in Sullivan's Cove's case literally everything is under the same roof, and in the same room - including all their maturing stock. If you've ever been to a Scottish distillery before, that alone should give you a sense of scale.

The number one law of The Whisky Pilgrim reads "thou shalt arrive unnecessarily early," and a different hemisphere wasn't going to change that. So forty minutes before tour began I was given a glass of water and directed to a seat in their charming visitor centre. It's a rather nice place to sit; I don't think I've ever seen such a wide variety of chairs!  Everything from chesterfields to 'doctor's waiting room-style', via what I can only describe as a pseudo-regency-period throne. Anyway, no prizes for guessing where I sat. It was gold for God's sake.

Talking of prizes, Sullivan's Cove have adorned the wall with theirs, and there are rather a lot. Certainly a good number for a range that effectively numbers three. Besides the French Oak they've an American Oak Single Cask, and their 'Double Cask', which works out about 70:30 in American Oak's favour.

Something worth noting about the French Oak incidentally - in Scotland it would probably be labelled "Port Cask", as that was what the barrels previously held. Actually, being legal and proper, they held nothing of the kind. They held an Australian Fortified Wine modelled on Tawny Port, and as a wine man by trade, that distinction matters to me. Bit clunky for a label, I admit, but based on my subsequent trip to Lark I can confirm that the PDO laws of the Douro Valley mean the square root of Jack to Australian whisky makers. Oh well. Probably no harm done!

My guide for the day was Ryan, an incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic young bloke. In fact everyone around the distillery seemed pretty young - ok, 'look who's talking' I guess, but you get my drift. Pretty much everyone was around my demographic, and the only place I've been before like that was Eden Mill, near St Andrews. Which, incidentally, is another small-scale operation cut from similar cloth to Sullivan's Cove.

Idiosyncrasy number one: Sullivan's Cove has one still. Not one pair of stills; not one wash and one spirit still: one still. Their wash comes from a local brewery, Cascade, who also used to do Lark's, and it goes through the still, comes out as low wines, then through the same still it goes again. Said still has a capacity of 2,500 litres. For some frame of reference, Glenfiddich describe theirs as 'unusually small' - and by Scottish standards they are - but they still stand at 9,500 litres capacity.

From a vantage point on a balcony, Ryan was able to point me towards the entire operation; still, casks, bottling line and the vats containing the gin that Sullivan's Cove also make. (Using the same still. That still earns its keep.) For some reason I was surprised to learn that each whisky bottled by Sullivan's Cove is over 10 years old. When a cask hits its decade, the contents are tasted by everyone at the distillery to assess where the whisky inside is at. Since the French Oak and American Oak expressions are both Single Casks, they come with their own sticker detailing distillation and bottling dates. In the case of the Double Cask (which usually comprises four different casks) they use the dates of the youngest constituent. The Double Cask I tasted was just shy of 16 years old.

I'm not sure why that surprised me so much; I guess I'd just got used to the notion of New World whiskies being a fair bit younger than their Scottish or Japanese counterparts. Shows what I know...oh, and by the way, the legal minimum age for Tasmanian whisky is 2 years, and they work at about a 3% evaporation rate.  Which was a shade or two lower than I expected.

On to those whiskies then. Ryan kindly gave me a taste of all of the core range. That included the gin, which smells like lemon and tastes like aniseed, if you're wondering!

Sullivan's Cove Double Cask - Lots of nose for 40%ABV. Vanillas and honeys initially. Rather fruity too, and the fruit grows as the glass sits. On the palate a touch of sweet spice emerges, and the development is demonstrated through a certain maturity of oak. Mouthfeel also surprisingly creamy for the strength. No burn though; medium intensity of flavour. More of the vanilla and honey, plus a big injection of malt. Some tablet too, and a splash of citrus providing lift and refreshment. Very clean. Decent balance. One for Balvenie fans. 40%ABV

Old Whisky Pilgrim readers will know that I only usually do a full note for a distillery's flagship expression when I write up  my tours. But since you're probably wondering how the other two tasted, I'll summarise by saying that I thought the French Oak was the pick of the bunch, and that the American Oak, whilst very tasty, was - to my palate - the least characterful of the three. Very clean; everything you'd expect from an 11-or-so-year-old ex-Bourbon cask malt...but no real surprises. Didn't have the idiosyncrasies of the Double Cask or the French Oak. Mind you, it was Ryan's favourite, and he knows Lark better than I do!

Hopped into a taxi which the fantastic guys at Sullivan's Cove kindly phoned for me, and plunged through the coastal Tasmanian fields towards  Hobart, the island's capital. Tour number two of the day was Lark, the first of the new age of Tasmanian distilleries.  Prohibition ended whisky production on the island over 150 years ago, but in 1992 Bill Lark persuaded the powers that be to let him start crafting aqua vitae again, and the rest is history.

A new experience for  me in more ways than one, because you don't actually drive yourself to the distillery at Lark. Instead you make your way to their "cellar door", from whence they chauffeur you  to where the magic happens in a minibus with a terrific pun on the bonnet. (See pictures below...) In this instance it's well worth your while turning up early, because the bar at the cellar door is quite something. I'd venture they have a couple of hundred bottles open on the shelves; predominantly Scotch, but with a good number from elsewhere, including a strong 'home showing.'

Taking a "when in Rome" attitude, Pilgrim snr and I selected a couple from Belgrove; the farm distillery that grows  all of its own rye onsite. We made our way through the peated and unpeated variants, and I can safely say that I've never tasted  anything like either of them in my life.  Good luck hunting any down in the UK, but if you do spot a bottle, don't hesitate. Particularly if it's the peated rye.

Behind the bar was Diana, who was full of enthusiasm for Belgrove's kit, and very chatty when we started swapping stories of our respective distillery visits. She'd recently made a trip to Scotland, and taken in 15 or so distilleries, so very much someone after my own heart! It turned out that she was also the guide for our tour, so I can only apologise to everyone else on the Drambulance for calling shotgun and continuing to compare notes!

I've been to a lot of distilleries by now, but Lark shoots straight to number one on my 'best sited' list. Not only does it have an absolutely stunning sea view, but it is cheek by jowl with a large vineyard. Whisky and wine literally next door to each other. If that isn't the dream then your dreams are wrong.

Hi-vis jackets donned, we made our way into the first warehouse, wherein the stills and mash tun are kept. The Lilliputian theme continued; Lark's mash tun is about the size of  a hot-tub, though I'm not sure I'd be keen on drinking a whisky whose wash had been used for that purpose. Since it's a manually stirred mash tun, potential jacuzzi enthusiasts would also be subject  to attack from a rouser. All in all I'd leave it as is.

Around the tun were a series of tiny stainless steel washbacks at various stages of fermentation. We had a taste from two, as well as a sip of the newly mashed wort. Not sure I'd make a habit of drinking them! We were then taken through the distillation process by CJ, the distillery manager, who had originally made his way over from Scotland on hearing about Lark's operation.

Before tasting the new make spirit we were given a glass of Lark's flagship, the Classic Cask. An apology here. Usually at this point I'd present my note for your consideration. But as it was a beautiful day we were outside at this stage, basking in the warm agricultural air. And on this warm agricultural air there floated a warm agricultural smell, with the upshot that my nostrils were charged with all sorts of aromas for which the whisky was not responsible, and for which the good people of Lark would not thank me were I to incongruously record them. So I can tell you that the Classic Cask was of medium intensity; that it featured characters of butterscotch, orange and light smoke, and that it would be right up the street of West Highland whisky fans. And I can tell you that  Tasmanian farmers don't stint on fertiliser. But I can't tell you much more than that!

After CJ had talked us through the spirit Diana took us to one of the cask houses, where several delicious treats were waiting. Firstly the 'Port Cask' expression from Lark's 'sister distillery,' Overeem. This was followed by a taste of Lark whisky straight from a tiny 'Port cask'. In both cases I'm sure you can guess why I've used quotation marks, but the whiskies were truly stunning. The Overeem, which was bottled at only 43%, could have used a bit of extra zing to counterbalance the huge weight of flavour and body, but the cask strength Lark was spectacular. In fact, based on my day, I'd say that Australian 'ex-Port' whiskies suit me a lot better than Scotch ex-Port does on the whole, and it's a shame they can't be labelled loudly and proudly as ex-Australian fortified wine. Or something a little less unwieldy. But I guess more people have heard of Port...

Due to the nature of our flights, my family and I had to flee at this point - though not before sampling Lark's gin selection. Out of respect. For the record, I genuinely don't think I've had a more enthusiastic, knowledgeable or friendly tour guide than Diana, and given the guides who have led me round distilleries previously, that really is saying something. Massive thanks to her, to CJ, and to the rest of the Lark team from myself and all of my family.

It obviously wasn't long enough of a trip.

Our flight from Sydney touched down at around 9:45 in the morning; by 5 in the afternoon we were back on the plane. Barely seven hours spent in Tasmania. I felt very strongly at the time, and still do now as I type, that I've never been more reluctant to leave somewhere in my life.

Because, quite apart from the stunning scenery and the gorgeous climate, Tasmania has something incredibly vibrant and magical and extraordinary to witness. Within my lifetime - within twenty-four years - they have created a whisky culture from nothing. The girls and guys at the twenty-two distilleries are doing something that no living Australian has done before, and what's more, they're doing it sensationally well. In the miniscule amount of time I spent there I got a flavour of the passion, the pride and the boundless dynamism of the Tasmanian whisky industry. It's inspirational to witness, exhilarating to be around, and if someone there were to offer me a job tomorrow I can't say I wouldn't be over like a shot. They're building a legacy, and they're building it on a labour of love.

The thing is, I'm still not sure about the prices. I know it's boring of me; I know  that the scale of production necessitates them; I know that Australian alcohol tax laws are pretty draconian, and I know that the distilleries sell out at those prices - so what's the problem? Well I think the problem for me is that, when I tell my friends and family about Tasmanian whisky, I won't be able to recommend that they go out and buy some. It's out of their price league - and mine - every single bottle. If they were Scotch I reckon the Sullivan's Cove Double Cask and the Lark Classic Cask would hover somewhere between £35-£55, and at that price they'd be up there with the very best.  I'd be telling everyone I knew to buy, buy, buy - just as I have been with Melbourne's Starward from the other week.

It's disgustingly unromantic of me to want some massive distillery churning out millions of gallons of whisky just so everyone can have a taste. And I don't want that; the atmosphere and the buzz around Tasmania is so optimistic and so alive with blissful vitality; how could anyone want that sensational, addictive ethos to be changed? But talking to Ryan and to Diana, it sounds as though the success stories of Tasmania are going to grow and grow in the next few years; bigger premises, higher production - same staff. If that is the case - and my God I hope it is - then perhaps we'll see some of the prices start to creep back towards the more affordable end of the spectrum.

I can't wait to see what happens next on the Tasmanian whisky scene - and I'm absolutely desperate to go back. But next time it'll be a proper visit; I want to see it all. I'm greedy like that.

Oh, and Ryan and Diana - if you're reading this, and by any chance find yourself in my hemisphere sometime, sincerely please do give me a shout. Because it isn't just Tasmania with a burgeoning whisky scene.  We've got one closer to home, too. The English are coming. But more on that another time.

Cheers!

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The post Adam, The Whisky Pilgrim, visits some Tasmania Distilleries appeared first on GreatDrams.

from GreatDrams http://ift.tt/2lEtplO Adam Wells

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Mardi Doherty on The 80’s Revival Interior

Mardi Doherty on The 80’s Revival Interior

Design Eye

by Lucy Feagins, Editor

Doherty Design Studio‘s Malvern Residence – a vibrant renovation of a 1980’s home. Bonnie Chair by Ligne Roset at DOMO. Photo – Derek Swalwell. Styling – Heather Nette King.

Mardi Doherty of Doherty Design Studio. Photo courtesy of Doherty Design Studio.

Mirrored walls, green carpet, sculptural, chunky furniture and ferns…80s glam all over! Photo – Derek Swalwell. Styling – Heather Nette King.

Ligne Roset’s Bonnie Chair and Sofa, designed in 1975 – available exclusively at DOMO.

The original glass atrium takes ‘light-filled’ to a whole new level. In the living room, Ligne Roset’s Togo couches create a stylish spot for teenagers to relax and curl up. Photos – Derek Swalwell. Styling – Heather Nette King.

The 1980s is back, in a big way.

For celebrated interior design Mardi Doherty, this era is characterised by bold and sometimes clashing colour, striking curves and geometric forms, and chunky, sculptural furniture.

‘Popular culture became broader in the 1980s. There was a seemingly endless array of different, conflicting styles… It was okay to throw out the rulebook; in fact, it was encouraged, allowing innovative design to flourish!’ Mardi says.

Doherty Design Studio’s recent Malvern project saw the studio re-imagine a grand 1980s home in Melbourne through a contemporary lens. This meant restraint in some areas, allowing some of the home’s most prominent original features to take centre stage (central glass atrium, anyone?), whilst pushing rich colour and texture into unexpected pockets of the house – punctuated with carefully selected classic furniture, like the Bonnie chair and Togo sofa from Ligne Roset. These iconic pieces offer an authentic nod to the past – whilst also ensuring design longevity for years to come.

We’re seeing a resurgence of the 80’s trends in Australian interiors right now, what appeals to your studio most about design from this era?

Considered by some to be the brashest of architectural decades, the 1980s are now being celebrated with bravery. We love the extroversion and flamboyance of much of 1980s design.

Popular culture became broader in the 1980s. There was a seemingly endless array of different, conflicting styles that were hugely popular. There was a freedom to the ways in which people expressed themselves – this was certainly true for design, architecture and fashion. It was okay to throw out the rulebook; in fact, it was encouraged, allowing innovative design to flourish.

It’s this eclecticism and vibrancy that makes our studio so excited by this era of design!

Your recent Malvern project really leans into this ‘retro’ aesthetic, using a brave colour palette and some incredible furniture pieces – can you talk us through this project?

Our approach was grounded by a strong appreciation of context, a desire to bring new life into the space, and to meet our client’s vision for their home.

We were completely taken with the original architecture (the home was designed by Peter McIntyre in the early 1980’s) and it became a priority of ours to celebrate this as much as possible. Our challenge was to seamlessly weave two outcomes together; to simultaneously respect the past, whilst catering for the future.

We knew from the start that we wanted to be bold with colour, yet we also wanted to balance this out with a neutral base of white. A refreshed sitting room, the ‘green room’, has a vivid peacock green across all walls, bespoke cabinetry and flooring; a nod to the bold use of colour in 1980s design. Here, we incorporated iconic pieces from different eras, including the striking Bonnie armchair by Ligne Roset, designed in 1975.

The living room required more restraint for a calmer space. Thoughtfully selected furniture made for relaxed living – the PaiPai armchair and footstool by Ligne Roset was complimented by the iconic Togo armchair and sofa in indigo – inviting teenagers to relax and curl. Again, the use of bold and chunky 1970s furniture in this 1980s home feels completely at ease.

Drawing from the building’s architectural heritage our aim was to create a contemporary version of the 1980s vernacular, filtered through a modernist glamour lens. The new design is a shrine to light, art and family life…. with a touch of disco to lure a party within!

Your studio is known for its really bold choices – especially when it comes to colour! How would you describe your design aesthetic?’

Our choices are often bold, yet we pride ourselves on knowing where and when to be restrained in order to achieve a cohesive design. Being bold with colour in key rooms brings joy, and ultimately isn’t that what life is about?!

Some projects require more calm – each site is so individual. We love a collaboration too – we see so much value in bringing together a team of other designers, it always makes for an enriched result.

Ligne Roset’s ‘Bonnie’ chair (along with the iconic Togo) share a chunky, oversized and very sculptural aesthetic… what sort of space would you specify these pieces, and what other sort of furnishings would you pair them with?

Bold furniture pieces like the sculptural Bonnie chair can provide a dramatic feature to a room. It’s important to provide a generous space around each piece, consider how it’s going to be viewed (from behind or front). You also need to consider what you see ‘past’ the piece, be it a window, a wall with art or towards another space.

The Togo collection (designed in mid 1970s) looks great in rooms with large windows, as the sofa has a low profile and allows your eye to continue to the view outside.

Pieces like these can be teamed with contemporary furniture, and positioned alongside custom joinery, to celebrate the soft curves of the pieces.

What advice would you have for anyone looking to achieve a ‘retro revival’ look at home ?

From geometric, angular forms, to striking curves and varying shades of colour – there’s a lot to draw on from 1970s and 1980s design! The key here is inspiration, not re-creation. This means exercising restraint and being considered with the use of period references, and stepping back to consider these details.

Taking a motif and using at different scales, in unexpected places, or marrying it with modern materials will help achieve a contemporary look without falling into pastiche.

For more than 30 years, DOMO has remained Australia’s exclusive stockist of prestigious design brands from Europe, and across the globe.

With showrooms in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide, DOMO offers a curated collection of classic, contemporary indoor and outdoor furniture ranges that last a lifetime.

For more design inspiration, follow DOMO on Instagram here.

The stunning Slow Beam residence in Tasmania, designed by Hearth Studio with Murray Barker and Lauren Bamford features Ligne Roset’s distinctive 1980’s Plumy couch in electric blue, paired with a spectacular custom carpet created with Australian artist Esther Stewart! Chaise lounge and chair by Featherston from Grazia & Co. Painting by Eleanor Louise Butt. Photos – Emily Weaving.

[jeremystrele]

The Best of Outdoor Living

The Best of Outdoor Living

Roundup

by Lucy Feagins, Editor

The façade of the Provan’s Mount Martha beach shack. Jeff has added awnings and pergolas to the existing site. The garden was designed in collaboration with Mud Design and Mowed in Australia. Photo – Eve Wilson. Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The lush rooftop balcony of Owen Harris‘ Fitzroy home. North East corner of the balcony. To the left, Ficus longifolia ‘Ali’, and in the far corner, Cussonia spicata (tall tree with trunk). Outdoor dining setting by TAIT.  Photo – Annette O’Brien for The Design Files.

The back garden in the Prahran home of Fiona Richardson and her family.  Butterfly chairs from Angelucci Twentieth Century, ‘Jil’ side table from Tait. Photo – Sean Fennessy.

Paul Bangay’s stunning house and grounds in country Victoria. The property and garden surrounds at Stonefields. Photo – Caitlin Mills for The Design Files.

Inside fashion designer turned garden designer Ian McMaugh’s courtyard garden in Redfern. The orange tree in the centre of the garden provides both fruit, sun protection, privacy and MORE space for growing plants! Photo – Daniel Shipp. Production – Lucy Feagins/The Design Files and Georgina Reid/The Planthunter.

Paul Bangay’s country Victoria property, Stonefields. Various alcoves and contained spaces make up the larger scale garden and property at Stonefields. Photo – Caitlin Mills for The Design Files.

The remarkable St Kilda home of Sandra Powell and Andrew King. Outdoor dining area – eyes by artist Rone. Photo – Eve Wilson. Production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Eddie Kaul and Richa Pant’s outdoor terrace in their Carlton home.  Photo – Eve Wilson.

Formerly belonging to renowned landscape designer, Edna Walling, Jen Vardy and family are now the custodians of this paradise in Melbourne’s Northern suburbs. The barn started life as a stable and garage, before being transformed into a home.  Photo – Annette O’Brien  for The Design Files.

Tim Ross and Michelle Glew-Ross’ Sydney home. The pool was here when Tim moved in, but the landscaping, paving and pool fence was added by Tim and Michelle after much consideration – in the end they chose to go with a frameless glass fence. The amazing yellow pool umbrellas were sourced by Michelle online and brought all the way back from LA in their boxes by Tim after taking his comedy show, ‘Man about the House’ to the US last year.  Photo – Eve Wilson, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The outdoor setting of Matt and Carly Skinner’s mid-century Beaumaris home. Photo – Annette O’Brien.

The Westgarth Home of Bella Stagoll and family, designed by Melbourne architects Kennedy Nolan. North garden elevation, including fully retractable glass doors (they slide into a cavity to the right), bird’s beak steel fascia, and ghostly super graphic and circular moon gate linking the new entry courtyard. Photo – Annette O’Brien.

  With longer evenings upon us, and holiday time fast approaching, it’s a great time to give your outdoor space a little spruce up.

With a little forward planning, outdoor living and dining spaces really do have the capacity to function as an additional room, all summer long.  Here are a few simple ideas for maximising your outdoor space.

1. Vary up your seating options. It’s common to see a standard dining setting in outdoor spaces, but for a less formal approach, consider a cluster of lower, lounge style seating (we love canvas butterfly chairs, available from Angelucci 20th Century).  When hosting a garden gathering, flexibility is key – lightweight seats and versatile stools can be really handy to have on hand.

2. Get comfy. Weatherproof outdoor upholstery fabrics have improved in recent years, allowing for truly plush, comfy outdoor lounge seating that really stands up to the elements! We like Tait’s new ‘Trace’ outdoor furniture collection, designed by Adam Goodrum – it barely looks like outdoor furniture.

3. Throw some shade. Shade is always a necessity in the Australian summertime – aside from the usual market umbrellas (we love Basil Bangs offerings) consider a retractable shade, as seen at the Mount Martha beach shack of Jeff and Mariko Provan. Camoflage netting, available from army surplus stores, is another great idea seen in this home, offering partial shade / dappled light over the outdoor dining area.

4. Fire up. A fire pit can be a great centrepiece, and makes your outdoor space an enticing space even in the colder months. We love the example in Carly and Matt Skinner’s iconic mid century home – the artfully arranged stack of firewood makes a beautiful feature, too!