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thejosh1980 · 3 years ago

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I was lookin' back to see if she was lookin' back...

Yesterday Alex, Mum and I celebrated...

It's been one year since Alex and I arrived at Mum's place in Ocean Shores, NSW Australia.

If you've read my earlier blogs in 2020, you'll know that we had a lot of trouble getting home. Between the government and airlines, at one point it looked like we'd never get here; we were stranded. I was living in constant worry, stress and hopelessness - in fact, we all were: Alex's family in Germany and Mum's family down under.

Our July 2020 flights were cancelled or rescheduled many times, and eventually we decided to buy new, more expensive flights, on another airline through an agency, which gave us some assurances we'd be on the flight. Our new flights booked and confirmed for early September.

We flew Frankfurt to Adelaide, which was not our original plan. Adelaide had no COVID, and the chance of getting on a flight and getting into the country was higher than say, Brisbane, or Sydney. We could quarantine in Adelaide for 2 weeks and then fly on to Brisbane, which is closer to Ocean Shores.

That was like.... so last year...

This area where we now live is known as the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, and when we arrived at Mum's there was no COVID in the area. We are only about 35 minutes south of the Queensland border, about 8 hours north of the big smoke, Sydney.

Now, a year on, COVID has arrived here.

It's been biting at the heals of tourists and essential workers travelling north since Sydney went into lockdown a couple of months ago.

It's not our idea of a good time.

Right now it's school holidays, which is meant to be 2 weeks of families holidaying in caravan parks and hotels, an essential part of this tourist attraction mecca. Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads, and surrounds are usually very popular places; so popular that most locals complain about how busy it gets here during the holidays. You just can't get a parking sport anywhere!

The Northern Rivers was locked down for about 6 weeks through August into September because cases from Sydney were getting into regional NSW. These regional areas affected by COVID weren't near here, but they made a blanket rule for everywhere outside of Sydney, just to be on the safe side.

Honestly, I don't blame them for the rule, regional outback Australia can't cope with COVID, there's few hospitals, beds, or COVID experience in the scrub and farm land.

Anyhow, I digress...

After those 6 weeks or so in lockdown, they lifted the restrictions here in the northern rivers (and other areas of NSW).

And now, after 2 weeks, lockdown is back on...

There are a couple of cases in the area. Snap lockdowns are the government's preferred method of containing outbreaks. Lockdown areas wherever cases pop up for a week or two (or longer) to limit exposure.

It reminds me constantly that life can change quickly at any time. I have decided I will not waste time once this current lockdown has ended (who knows when that will be). I will visit friends, family, and musicians who live close by. I want to see as many folks as quickly as possible, before another lockdown kicks in.

Besides the boring, never ending tale of COVID, there have been a few things happening this past year...

Alex has been working consistently in the real estate industry since her temporary visa kicked in late last year.

Her first job was a few more miles away than any of us locals would consider driving, and the position wasn't as enjoyable or rewarding as she had first hoped. She really dived in the deep end, and while she didn't drown, she probably needed a few swimming lessons before the attempt. It was a life lesson, one she took on board, and when a new job came up closer to home, she nailed the interview (as she always does), and hasn't looked back.

The 2nd job is less than half the distance away, strictly 9 to 5 and in a company which she enjoys. There's a strong company structure, good work ethic, and entertaining colleagues. Her supervisors, colleagues, and managers are all very supportive; I think she'll be sitting tight on this one for a while.

Alex has also found her creative side again, scrap book journalling, instant camera photography, and some kind of couples diary/journal/photo book too. It's become an almost nightly affair of focusing, creating, and having something to show for it fairly quickly. She's very proud of her work, and it's something she does just for herself. I don't expect you'll get a chance to see a photo of what she's done, and she likes it like that.

I had a bit of work late in 2020 and early 2021, nothing special really, but wait until the premier!! It's interesting to think that some day soon I'll be able to go to the cinema and see my ugly mug on the big screen (even if it will most likely be out of focus). I'll be on Netflix too.

Having the opportunity to be an extra on film and TV was a real boost for my confidence after being off stage for so long. I felt creative, met some great people, made some friends, and had a few bucks in my pocket. Happy days.

By jumping into an industry I hadn't been in before right after arriving here, it reminded me that Australia has a lot to offer. I found myself comparing Germany and Australia, and Australia often feels like it comes up short. This was a chance to prove to myself that there are adventures awaiting here down under.

So, I decided to go back to school.

The last time I was in a class room was in 1998!! I am studying a Diploma of Counselling, and am currently half way through my studies. I've found it very challenging, but have passed every assessment so far, and gained some handy skills too. I have a good connection with my teachers, and I really enjoy the company of my classmates; some of which I can even call friends.

I chose counselling for a few reasons, but the first step was really just a process of elimination. Besides being a freelance professional musician for several years in Germany, I had worked in offices, shops, warehouses, kindergartens and various other jobs. While I could go back into IT or something similar, I wanted to use this opportunity to try something new.

I had my fair share of mental health issues in the past (and present). I thought maybe those experiences could help me connect with folks who need support as well. When looking at course options, the counselling course stood out. So now I'm making a mid life crisis gamble that I'll pass the course, and feel confident and knowledgeable enough to take on the role that many others have taken on for me over the years.

The course has helped me find a routine too, one that I didn't know I needed, until it happened. When you're jobless and unfocused, the mind wanders, the days pass. Now my mind is focused on study, and I feel better for it.

Up until the lockdown hit, we were in class 3 days a week and then I'd study from home 1 to 3 days a week. When lockdown hit, we had to go online. However, being on the computer so much has worn me out, and I really start to enjoy those rare days where I am not looking at a screen!

To be honest, it's been challenging every step of the way, and I even thought about quitting several times in the past few months. However, my confidence has steadily risen to each challenge and I felt better for it.

That's the kind of vicious circle I enjoy.

In July I had my first live show in 13 months! In fact, to date I've only had 3 since the pandemic started! Fingers crossed I can cross the border next month and add a 4th.

I was approached by Cherry Divine to play guitar for her. It's a relatively easy gig for me. The songs are fun rockabilly tunes, Cherry sings great, and she already has a band and gigs. I'm helping her write a few songs too, for her next album. I can't thank her enough for sparkin' the fire in me to keep music alive in my life; for a while there I thought it was all a thing of the past.

With the spark has come the possibility of “The Josh” solo band coming together. While the band isn't moving at any great speed (the recent 2nd lockdown kicked in right as I was about to arrange a rehearsal), I'm finally eager to get a band together. I miss playing live, and I miss having musicians in my life. I miss the spontaneity of a show, life on the road, and crowd reactions.

I've even started to write some new material, and get those ideas on “tape”, well, on the computer. Slow and steady, between studying, family, pets and surfing, music is coming back into my life, and it feels good.

Our family unit here is doing well. Alex and I have been under mum's roof and mum's care for a year now. There are some ups and downs, but mostly I'd say they're ups... The house is big enough to give all of us space, all of us get time outside of the house (except during lockdown, I was mostly stuck at home, but that's OK for me)...

Last night we couldn't go out for dinner, but we did have take away from the local Indian which was really good, and a special treat for us, we don't eat out often.

Alex and I plan to get away every 5-6 months for a visit to somewhere we haven't been. In March we were on the “Sunshine Coast” and checked out Australia Zoo, and in June we went south to the mid north coast to pick up BB Junior.

It's nice to get out and explore. A bit hard to do at the moment, with the restrictions, but we've agreed another trip away (before Christmas if possible) is in order. Those trips are part of the reason why I came home, to see some of Australia, and I'm lucky I get to make those experiences with Alex.

It's also nice to get away from it all. I know we live in a beautiful spot near the ocean, but here, at home, there's the computers, the life and routine, and getting away keeps us fresh and focused on each other. It's definitely something I look forward to!

Speaking of BB Junior, he's almost 7 months old now, and a real character. While he's not the easiest cat to train, I've been getting a few tricks out of him, and he enjoys his time outside, with his harness and long lead. He visits his cousin each week for play time, Charlie, who is another ragdoll of a family friend who loves to play chase all day long with Junior. Alex adores Junior, and Junior adores Alex; they can't wait to cuddle when she comes home from work. He's very vocal too, so even when everyone is at work, I have someone to talk to!

Losing our little boy Mijo was a real difficult experience. I know I've written about him before, but he deserves a mention here, as he was a big part of our first year here. He was full of character and strength, he and I bonded very quickly and not a day goes by I don't think of him. He also brought Alex and I closer together. When she chose him for me, and when he passed, and all points in between, he brought us closer.

I've been focused on sport a fair bit since getting back and settling in. I bought a RowErg, also known as a rowing machine, and I row about twice a week, in addition to riding my bicycle about twice a week. I try to surf every chance I get, which unfortunately ends up being only a few times a month. It's my goal to do something sporty to get my heart rate up every day, and of late, usually I get there too. I don't really do it for any other reason than I love to snack and I can't snack if I don't do sport!

A benefit of my sport/snack workout routine is it helps me stay calm and focused and connected with those I ride and surf with.

I haven't asked Mum how she's feeling about having her middle aged son and his wife living with her recently. Maybe I should, but do I really wanna know the answer? Well, I think she's OK with it. After all, we drive her wherever she wishes! I suspect it goes a little deeper than that, and in all honesty, we enjoy each other's company.

Since Alex and I have been here, I'd like to think Mum has been living a little bit fuller life. I don't think her eyesight has deteriorated much in the past year, but we've been able to provide her with support, eyes to read the small print, driving and help with google, or something around the house. When Mum was diagnosed with celiac disease earlier this year, Alex took her shopping to check over the ingredients of Mum's favourite food, and when needed, found alternatives. It definitely made the transition to gluten free a little easier on Mum and it was a load off my mind that we were around to help her through that phase.

Winter 2021 was over before it even started. I forgot how warm this part of the world is, and I don't know why I own so many jackets! Returning from Europe, where I was wearing a jacket daily for about 9 months of the year, here it feels like, if it's really needed, and I mean if you're desperate, you might need one for 9 weeks of the year. I think the heater was on a handful of times, and the sun was shining just about every day.

I tell ya, it's some kind of paradise here.

It's been a bit difficult keeping up with our European friends and family. I sometimes find it hard to find the time to be proactive to contact the 20, 30 or more friends I'd like to keep in touch with regularly. I know our lives keep on keepin' on, but time passes by so quickly too, and next thing you know it's been 4 months since I last contacted you!

Sorry about that!

Don't take it personally, and I'll get back to you, eventually!

My overall mental health has improved over the year, I'd say it's become quite stable since I started the course. I mean, can't you tell? I write less and less in this blog, because I have less and less to process. I'm not sure if it's the fact there's a lot of self reflection that is inherently a part of doing that kind of mental health course, or if it's the routine of being a student or the new friends I've made and classmates I study with.

It could be that it's taken a year to come to terms with being back here, cause when I first arrived I felt uncomfortable, depressed and worn out... There were a lot of questions; is this a mid life crisis? What am I doing here? Will I ever feel good again? Is my music career over? What am I going to do now? Is Alex OK? Is Mum OK?

My journalling, blogging, and support from friends and family has helped a lot too this past year. Processing my thoughts in words, by clarifying and reflecting, has helped a lot. I've been trying to care for myself a bit more now and then too, I think people call it self care, sometimes I call it sport! Alex has helped me to recognise my achievements, however big or small, and focus less on what I haven't done.

I'm not perfect, but definitely improving.

I was hoping that Alex and I would be in a position to start looking at buying our own house around this time, a year in, but unfortunately, with one of us being a student and the ever rising cost of housing, we have to sit tight on that idea for a while longer. Sorry Mum, you're stuck with us.

There's been many smaller things happen during our first year here. Lots of moments of gratitude, love and support. There's some stuff we've forgotten, or that has been overtaken by something bigger. All in all, I'd say it's been a real rollercoaster home coming!

We're still here, a year on, still going strong, making motions, taking chances, being in love, talking shit, laughing, smiling, misbehaving and focusing... What more could we ask for?

Thank you for reading, for your support and love. I love you too.

Josh

#covid pandemic #1 year celebration #reflection #family life #relationships

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nikolai-novak · 3 years ago

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Nikolai’s Travel Timeline

Nikolai graduated from high school in 2018, shortly before his 18th birthday in August. Given his family circumstances at the time, he really needed to get away so he took advantage of the fact that he had a full drivers licence and more than enough money to fund his travels.

June 2018 - December 2018

Nikolai was inspired by a photographer that he really liked -- Brian DeFrees -- when it came to mapping out his road trip around the state. In 2011, Brian travelled through 30-odd states in 53 days to see all the major landmarks. Nikolai followed a similar pathway by catching a flight to Virginia, bought a Kombi van, and started the road trip. Nikolai, however, took a full six months to complete the trip. Nikolai visited the following states and explored significantly in each:

Virginia

South Carolina

Georgia

Florida

Louisiana

Texas

New Mexico

Arizona

Nevada (in which he caught up with old friends from high school)

California (in which he briefly stopped in and visited his parents to ease their nagging)

Oregon

Washington (in which he met August Bright for the first time and his intended short stay in Washington was extended considerably. This is a major contributing reason as to why a trip that could have been completed in two months ended up blowing out to six months in duration. (@augustbright)

Idaho

Montana

Wyoming

Utah

Colorado

Nebraska

South Dakota

North Dakota

Minnesota

Wisconsin

Iowa

Illinois

Ohio

New York

Nikolai then sold his Kombi van in New York and booked the cheapest round the world ticket that he could find. The ticket included flights from New York --> London --> Bangkok --> Singapore --> Sydney.

December 2018 - September 2019

After booking his flight to London, Nikolai spent the next nine and a half months backpacking around Europe. Now this was genuine backpacking, with Nikolai relying on various forms of transport -- including trains, buses, and even hitchhiking at times. His adventures were as follows:

Great Britain leg - England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland

Central Europe, primarily via train - Netherlands, Germany, Czechia, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Switzerland, France

Balkans leg - Croatia, Serbia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo

Iberian leg - Spain and Portugal

Transylvanian leg - Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania

Baltics leg - Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, Russia

Scandinavia leg - Denmark, Sweden, Norway

South Caucasus leg - Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan

Greek Islands leg

Note: It was in London that he first met Hannah Callaghan. The two met in a bar, hit it off, and fell into bed together. Nikolai didn’t stay in London for long, however he and Hannah have remained in sporadic contact ever since and will always hook-up again when they’re in the same place at the same time. @hannahcallaghanmu

October 2019 - November 2019

After finishing in Europe, Nikolai booked the next flight on his round the world trip and headed to Bangkok. He spent the next two months backpacking around Thailand, both north and south:

Thailand - Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Hua Hin, Ko Tao, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Samui, Khao Sok National Park, Krabi, Rai Leh, Ko Phi Phi, Ko Lanta

December 2019

After finishing his travels in Thailand, Nikolai used the next part of his round the world the world ticket to head to Singapore.

Singapore - exhausted from all the backpacking, Nikolai just spent a week in a resort in Singapore. Whilst he did explore the city, he was mainly focused on relaxing and recuperating in a 5-star hotel after primarily sleeping in vans, backpacker hostels, and even tents in some places since first beginning his travels.

December 2019 - July 2020

After Singapore, Nikolai booked the last leg of his round the world ticket and headed to Australia. After landing in Sydney, Nikolai scoured local car dealerships and bought himself another second hand Kombi van and commenced a backpacking trip around Australia. Starting from Sydney, Nikolai’s journey was as follows:

New South Wales - The Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Yamba, Byron Bay

Queensland - Gold Coast, Brisbane, Noosa, Fraser Island, Hervey Bay, Agnes Water, Lady Musgrave Island, Lady Elliot Island, Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, Townsville, Magnetic Island, Mission Beach, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

He sold the Kombi van after finishing in Cairns so that he could fly over to Western Australia. After spending about a week on Rottnest Island, he managed to buy a second hand van that the owners had renovated for their own past long distance road trips. From there, the adventure continued:

Western Australia - Margaret River, Denmark, Albany, Esperance, Perth, Kalbarri, Monkey Mia, Coral Bay, Exmouth, Ningaloo Reef, Karijini National Park, Broome, the Kimberley

Northern Territory - Darwin, Litchfield, Kakadu, Katherine, Alice Springs, Uluru, The Red Centre

South Australia - Adelaide, Grampians National Park, then the Great Ocean Road into Victoria

Victoria - Melbourne, Carlton, St Kilda, Brighton, Collingwood, Fitzroy

Nikolai then sold the van, took a flight over to Tasmania, and rented a vehicle as he knew that he would only be there for a few weeks:

Tasmania - Hobart, Wild West Coast, Cradle Mountain, Launceston, Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay, Port Arthur

Nikolai then took a flight to Australian Capital Territory, where he spent a few last days in Australia before having to fly back to start at MU:

Australian Capital Territory - Canberra, Jervis Bay

July 2020

After finishing his mammoth Australian adventure, Nikolai received the ultimatum from his parents: either come back to California and get a university degree or they would be cutting off his access to his trust fund. Nikolai requested a couple of weeks to think about it and immediately booked a flight to Bali, Indonesia. Nikolai spent the two weeks in Bali thinking about the offer, before reluctantly booking a flight back to California.

August 2020 - December 2020

It was during this period that Nikolai was a student at Monarch University, having enrolled to study Exercise Science and Physiology. Nikolai really didn’t want to be at university and certainly wasn’t passionate about his chosen major. Struggling to adjust to life at MU, Nikolai crunched the numbers and he realised he could continue funding his travel expenses through his travel and photography blog. With that realisation, he called his parents bluff and left campus. His parents didn’t fully cut off his access to the trust fund but did restrict it (meaning that he was able to withdraw less money than usual each month) but between that and his blog, he was able to make it work.

January 2021 - April 2021

After leaving MU, Nikolai impulsively booked a flight to Florida. He intended to just stay for a couple of weeks to party and blow off steam but ended up meeting Este Castillo (@estecastillo) in Miami. The couple of weeks turned into a few months whilst the two of them casually dated -- which is the most commitment that Nikolai has given to anyone since the whole mess with Lily. Whilst in Florida, his blog really started to take off. Despite the fact that he wasn’t travelling as extensively as he had in the past, people really loved his photos of Florida; and he had plenty of unseen pictures and stories from his previous adventures that he finally had the time to fully share. Este and Nikolai eventually had an amicable breakup as Nikolai was itching to hop on a flight.

May 2021 - June 2021

Hopping on a flight led Nikolai to another backpacking adventure, this time in Brazil. Nikolai really hit a sweet spot with his photography and travel blog -- when he had first started the account after finishing high school, he had posted a photo a day; which really was only the briefest snapshot of his adventures as he would take countless photos each and every day. Each photo was accompanied with a brief caption to explain where said photo was taken. Having had some time to fully fleshed things out in Florida, Nikolai started posting more and more of the photos that he had taken over the last few years and accompanied them with detailed stories. The combination of his photography and genuine passion for travel was a recipe for success and this only continued as he backpacked through Brazil for two months.

July 2021 - current

Nikolai is back at MU and studying Business and Photography because he wants to figure out a way to make his blog into a sustainable career. Nikolai still has thousands of photos in his back catalogue that he can share, along with countless stories. Still, he’s making sure to supplement the blog by fully exploring everything that California has to offer; and whenever he can, he will take short weekend trips away or make the most of semester breaks to ensure that people get a good combination of both old and new content.

#muse #travels #nikolai's travel journey #itinerary #guys #you have no idea how long this took #what a mammoth effort #yet I regret nothing

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architectnews · 3 years ago

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Sydney Houses: NSW Properties, Residences

Sydney Homes, NSW Houses, New South Wales Property Designs, Residence Photos

Sydney Houses : NSW Properties

New South Wales Property Developments, Contemporary Australian Homes

post updated 31 Jul 2021

Sydney House – Latest Property Additions

New South Wales Properties – latest additions to this page, arranged chronologically:

17 Jul 2021 Stealth House, Hunters Hill

22 Jun 2021 Kingsford House

22 Apr 2021 Coast House Design: Luke Moloney Architecture photograph © Tom Ferguson Coast House A single-storey cottage overlooking the ocean received a new first floor to take advantage of spectacular coastal views. An economical design tailors simple materials to make a comfortable home for a busy couple with young children.

16 Feb 2021 McLeod House Design: Ian Moore Architects photograph © Daniel Mayne McLeod House The four-bedroom McLeod House is located on a ridge above Sydney’s Middle Harbour, with significant district views as well as a distant view to Chatswood in the west. Officially it is alterations and additions to a 1970’s house, as 30% of the original house had to be retained to allow the house to retain it’s floor area, height and location on the site, all of which exceeded new planning controls for the area.

8 Feb 2021 Dodds House Design: Ian Moore Architects photograph © Daniel Mayne Dodds House This restoration of a one-bedroom house designed by Ian Moore in 1998 and completed in 2001, which had been unsympathetically altered by a previous owner.

17 Feb 2021 Hastings van Nunen House

3 Dec 2020 Escu House

23 Nov 2020 Chimney House

16 Nov 2020 Mosman White House

5 Nov 2020 House Anand

19 Oct 2020 Eagle’s Nest, Collaroy Plateau, New South Wales Architects: Ian Bennett Design Studio photo : Clinton Weaver Eagle’s Nest, Collaroy Plateau Perched high on a prominent escarpment in the highest level of bushfire attack; Flame Zone, Eagle’s Nest aspires to balance and curate the experience of outlook and expansiveness of site, with privacy and seclusion. The restrained material palette heightens this experience of site, landscape and built form along with the changing dynamic of light and shade.

20 Sep 2020 Pindimar Lake House, NSW

4 Sep 2020 Next Generation House in Pittwater, NSW

28 Aug 2020 Oye Mi Canto House, Carriageworks cultural precinct, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Design: CplusC Architectural Workshop photo : Murray Fredericks Oye Mi Canto House An alterations and additions project on a terrace-house located in the leafy suburban streets of Sydney’s Newtown, nestled into a narrow site backing onto the Carriageworks cultural precinct.

14 July 2020 A+C Residence in Seaforth

29 June 2020 The Waterfront Retreat, Newport, New South Wales, Australia Architecture: Koichi Takada Architects photo : Tom Ferguson Photography The Waterfront Retreat Newport, NSW The Waterfront Retreat is the epitome of an Australian dream home, adorned with a private beach, garden and open-plan living. Responding the clients’ brief – a house offering sanctuary and entertainment, the Waterfront Retreat is designed to allow nature to lead, offering maximum seclusion and connection to its surrounds and outlook.

23 June 2020 Hart House, Great Mackerel Beach, New South Wales Design: Casey Brown Architecture photo : Rhys Holland House on Great Mackerel Beach, NSW This new property is located on the idyllic shoreline of Great Mackerel Beach, and was conceived as a contemporary interpretation of the quintessential one-room Australian beach shack. The form was derived from a wrapped ‘box’ open to one side.

17 June 2020 Blackwood Residence, Clovelly, eastern Sydney Architects: McGregor Westlake Architecture photo : Brett Boardman Blackwood Residence in Clovelly This NSW residence is a recently finished alteration and addition to a house in Boundary Street, Clovelly.

8 June 2020 St Peters House II Architects: Kreis Grennan Architecture photo : Douglas Frost St Peters House II in Suburbian West Sydney The St Peters House II is built at the rear of a narrow lot in the Sydney suburb of St Peters. The client’s backyard provided a new site for his freestanding home. The original dwelling remained, creating additional accommodation and a sensible approach to increased urban residential density.

19 May 2020 YrdPods Architects: Kreis Grennan Architecture photo : Douglas Frost YrdPod Garden House YrdPods are a type of tiny homes that makes architecture accessible for everyone. They are not the type of tiny houses on wheels, but a permanent structure located in backyards.

19 May 2020 New House in Clovelly Architects: Modscape photo : John Madden New House in Clovelly, Sydney

9 Mar 2020 Infinity House, Curl Curl Architect: CplusC Architectural Workshop photographers : Murray Fredericks and Simon Whitbread Infinity House in Curl Curl This new NSW property is an exercise in material, time, and cost efficiency. A specific project brief included two bedrooms with built-in robes, bathroom/laundry, an open plan dining, kitchen, living space, and a deck.

5 Mar 2020 Tennyson Point House Architects: CplusC Architectural Workshop photograph : Murray Fredericks Tennyson Point House Working within the bones of a solid, well-constructed water front home built in the 1960s on Parramatta River, the adaptive reuse of this multi-level dwelling involved various changes. All the internal workings of the existing structure were removed, the central circulation core was re-invigorated, light and cross ventilation was developed, and the waterfront outlook reinforced.

2 Mar 2020 Porter St Ryde Apartments, Shepherds Bay, Meadowbank Precinct, Ryde, New South Wales Architects: Glyde_Bautovich photograph : Atelier Illume Porter St Ryde Apartments in Sydney, NSW Planning approval obtained for this new residential project within City of Ryde’s Shepherds Bay, Meadowbank Precinct.

4 Feb 2020 Townhouses on Tamarama, Upper North Shore, NSW Architects: David Mitchell Architects and Chapman Architecture photograph : Michael Nicholson Tamarama Townhouses NSW, Upper North Shore Three luxury properties on Tamarama’s waterfront have been designed to cut into the slope of the site’s natural landform allowing the building to open generously to the view as it simultaneously bunkers down to the landform.

29 Jan 2020 The Balcony House in Newtown

29 Jan 2020 Copper Top House in Mosman

17 Jan 2020 Iron Maiden House in Longueville, New South Wales

More contemporary Sydney Houses online soon at e-architect

Sydney Houses in 2019

5 Dec 2019 Balmoral House in Mosman

17 Nov 2019 Beachside Sanctuary House in Mona Vale

9 Jul 2019 Fundamental House in Annangrove

30 May 2019 Clovelly house, eastern suburbs of Sydney Architects: Rolf Ockert Design photograph from architects Clovelly house Having seen some of our earlier work the owners of this extraordinary oceanfront site invited us to submit ideas about what a new house there could look like.

14 Apr 2019 Taylors Bay House in Mosman, NSWW

4 Apr 2019 Avoca Beach Beach House, Avoca Beach, Central Coast, NSW Architects: Architecture Saville Isaacs photograph : Kata Bayer Beach House in NSW The core idea of people living and engaging with place is an underlying principle of this architecture practice, given expression in the manner in which this home engages with the exterior, not in a general expansive nod to view, but in a varied and intimate manner.

2 Apr 2019 Twin Houses Architects: Architecture Saville Isaacs photograph : Kata Bayer Twin Houses in Sydney Responding to the irregular site boundary and contextual differences, the houses take on different yet complementary forms. No.2 presents a street façade of sensually curved brick mass with window penetrations.

27 Mar 2019 Garden House Architects: James Design Studio photograph : Simon Whitbread Garden House in New South Wales A new home in the upper north shore using vernacular forms and gables defined by differing materials with a link in the middle giving a glimpse of what lies beyond while providing a framework for privacy.

3 Mar 2019 Wentworth House, Vaucluse, New South Wales, Australia Architects: MHN. Design Union photo : Brett Boardman Wentworth House in Vaucluse, NSW Wentworth House is located on the southern ridges of Sydney Harbour at the crest of a gully which feeds into Vaucluse Bay.

13 Feb 2019 International Lodge Apartment Design: Ian Moore Architects photo : Iain D. Mackenzie International Lodge Apartment, NSW International Lodge is a Harry Seidler designed apartment building in Elizabeth Bay, Sydney, completed in 1962. The building was designed as compact 40 square metre 1 bedroom and 29 square metre studio apartments.

2 Feb 2019 Tamarama House, Upper North Shore Architects: Modscape photo courtesy of architects Tamarama House in NSW Located just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, this elegant home in Tamarama, NSW is beautifully detailed to create a sophisticated, functional, light-filled family home.

31 Jan 2019 Earth Wind and Fire – The Village House, Upper North Shore Architects: Luigi Rosselli Pty Ltd photo © Justin Alexander New House in Upper North Shore Earth is one of the oldest construction materials known to man; it can be fired, as with bricks and tiles, or used in its raw state as with adobe or rammed earth.

More new Sydney Houses welcome for consideration on e-architect

Sydney Houses in 2018

1 Nov 2018 Sunrise House, South Coast, NSW Architects: MCK Architecture & Interiors photograph : Michael Nicholson Photography South Coast NSW Home A robust yet finely articulated home arranged as a collection of positive and negative spaces, opens up completely to its immediate landscape, or shuts down as the coastal weather turns.

7 Oct 2018 Hidden Studio, Byron Bay, northeastern New South Wales Design: Harley Graham Architects photo : Andy MacPherson Byron Bay House Nestled into rainforest on a 20acre property in Coopers Shoot Byron Bay, ‘Hidden Studio’ by Harley Graham Architects is a private sanctuary with views over the hinterland and Pacific Ocean beyond.

16 May 2018 North Curl Curl House Architect: Rolf Ockert photo © Luke Butterly North Curl Curl House The clients fulfilled their dream to live by the beach when they bought one half of a new subdivision of a double size block on a quiet street with great views across the road to the lagoon and beach of North Curl Curl.

25 Apr 2018 Escarpment House, Gerringong, Illawarra region, New South Wales, Australia Architects: ATELIER ANDY CARSON photograph : Michael Nicholson New House in Gerringong This modest two bed guest house explores the vernacular farm shed, with a plan that’s charmingly simple yet highly considered in its detail. Located on a quintessentially NSW South Coast dairy farm. The design explores the vernacular steel portal frame typology in a highly refined and detailed way.

23 Apr 2018 Headland House, Gerringong, Illawarra region, New South Wales Design: ATELIER ANDY CARSON photo : Michael Nicholson New House in Gerringong This new home designed by Atelier Andy Carson is a sanctuary from its harsh surrounds, perched on a sprawling coastal site overlooking Werri Beach, New South Wales. Green pastures and paddocks running dairy cows line this 150-acre property on one side, rugged coastal cliffs and ocean on the other.

18 Apr 2018 The Books House, Mosman Design: Luigi Rosselli Architects photo © Justin Alexander New House in Mosman Subtle and thoughtful new property that focuses on the startification of the rock found – and exposed – on the site of the residence. The concrete structure of each floor is oriented differently to suit the views, and also maximise the distances from the neighbours on each side.

10 Apr 2018 Double Bay House Architects: SAOTA photograph : Adam Letch Contemporary House on Sydney Harbour Shore An oversailing timber roof canopy connects the street side to the garden and the beach. It permeates the interior, presenting itself at odd moments, it protects and defines the collection of internal and external spaces composed beneath.

2 Feb 2018 Mt Duneed House, Geelong, Victoria Architects: Lachlan Shepherd Architects photo : Ben Hosking New House in Victoria An honest, low-slung building in a suburb of Geelong, Victoria. the property sits sympathetically with its surroundings. Simply clad with corten steel and recycled timber, the home is positioned on the crest of a gentle hill and surrounded by paddocks with scattered trees.

5 Feb 2018 Glebe House Design: Nobbs Radford Architects photo : Murray Fredericks Glebe House The project is primarily focused on the interconnections of cloistered spaces, created and selected framed openings. The outer concrete elements contrast with the timber elements that further define the various internal zones and functions within the house.

1 Feb 2018 Small Living Spaces Apartment, Surry Hills Design: Catseye Bay photo : Katherine Lu Small Living Spaces Apartment A New South Wales studio apartment structured by colour.

29 Jan 2018 House Pranayama, Bellevue Hill Design: Architect Prineas photo : Ben Hosking Home Pranayama in Bellevue Hill This residential project involved a narrow three-story side addition to a 1920s two storey brick house. The clients desirted space for a study, library and rumpus area that also provided an opportunity for internal connection/lift access from the previously separate garage.

13 Jan 2018 Maybanke House Architects: AJ+C photo © Michael Nicholson Maybanke House Design ingenuity and a dose of respect for its original Gothic Revival bones deliver a blighted 1870s harbourside home in Sydney into the 21st century.

Archive of NSW residences posted up to and including 2017:

Sydney Homes

More New Sydney Properties online soon

Sydney Housing

Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia

Architecture in Sydney

Contemporary NSW Buildings

Sydney Architecture News

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Australian Architectural Links

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Properties / photos for the Sydney Homes – NSW Residential Architecture page welcome

Website: Visit Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

The post Sydney Houses: NSW Properties, Residences appeared first on e-architect.

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thelifestyleeditor · 4 years ago

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Sometimes a book is published and you simply cannot wait to get your hands on it. Stylist, shopkeeper (@imprint_house) and interiors writer, Natalie Walton’s latest book is one such publication. STILL: The Slow Home is a stylishly, crafted collection of 20 homes from around the world, whose owners advocate slow living. Natalie travelled the globe far and wide to seek out soulful and harmonious interiors that epitomise this concept, and which were beautifully captured by photographer Chris Warnes. The term ‘slow’ is an acronym for how to approach everyday choices in a more considered way: Sustainable, Local, Organic and Whole. It originated in Italy during the 1980s/90s with the slow food movement, which emphasized more traditional food production processes as a reaction to fast food emerged. Taking this ethos into the world of interiors, the book is divided into three chapters; Change, Now and Slow, and cleverly marries cool, calm and covetable interiors, with thought-provoking conversations with home owners. Now, more than ever, the need for change is critical, and this book guarantees to make us all reappraise our own way of living, both in our own homes and the world around us.

I recently caught up with Natalie to discuss her thoughts behind her new publication...

Can you tell us about your new book? About five years ago my family embarked on a tree-change journey, after living in inner-city Sydney. It gave me a whole new appreciation for nature, and the fragility of eco-systems. At the same time it felt as if consumerism was getting out of control. And, as with most things in our life, I believe that often the easiest and best ways to make change is within our own homes.

What criteria were you looking for in the 20 homes you sourced? I was interested in the stories of people who were looking to embrace a slower and more sustainable way of living. What I’ve learned is that there isn’t one way to do this, but many - and it’s a journey. It’s not about buying into a philosophy, but changing the way we think about how we live.

Which was your favourite home you featured and why? Every time I visited one of the homes I could imagine myself living there, and started to mentally plot how I could relocate my family. It’s really hard to choose a favourite, but the one in Mallorca held great appeal - I love stone houses.

Where do you live and what is your own home like? I live in the hinterland of the Byron Bay area on the East coast of Australia. We are so grateful to live here, because I’ve learned that a home isn’t just the building that you live in, but the community that you’re part of too.

Why do you think it's important to live a sustainable, local and organic lifestyle? It’s imperative. We simply cannot continue living the way we are. I think it’s not only important for the planet, and future generations, but also for our own well-being. Ultimately, I believe we enhance our lives when we focus on what’s most meaningful.

What advice would you give someone trying to embrace these changes with their own interiors? The most important step is the first one. Just start doing something. It’s so easy to get overwhelmed or feel that your choices have to be perfect. As I say in the book, instead of having hundreds of people living these ideas out perfectly, we need millions living them out imperfectly.

STILL: The Slow Home by Natalie Walton (Hardie Grant, £30), photography by Chris Warnes, available to purchase here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY: With thanks to publishers Hardie Grant, I have a copy to giveaway over on Instagram. Head over to take part, and good luck!

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taronfanfic · 6 years ago

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ABER

Masterlist

Chapter 17

Surfing, cocktails and jet lag were a lethal combination. Taron had stuck to his word and ordered you both Sex on the Beach cocktails that night, doing his best to kick off the evening on the right foot. You’d had dinner in the hotel restaurant and then moved out to the bar which overlooked the pool and hotel grounds. It felt like your first holiday together, and even though you’d spent so much time with Taron recently there was a different feeling that came with him being away from work. You could tell that he was more relaxed. He was never as conscious about how tactile he was with you and as you sat with him now he without a doubt felt like your boyfriend. You’d not put a label on what you were, in fact the last time you’d needed one you were still known as his oldest and closest friend. The wait for him to make the next move was wearing thin and despite your initial fears about what your relationship with him would become, you were now past the point of caring and felt more than ready to take matters into your own hands.

“I’ve really enjoyed today.” You sipped your cocktail and relaxed back in your chair as you drew Taron’s gaze away from the sea.

“Me too. Surfing was a good choice.” He crossed his leg over his knee as he also sat back and relaxed with his drink.

“It was, but we’d have made anything fun. I’m loving getting to spend so much time with you.”

“I’m loving seeing you so happy.” Taron smiled back to you and you could see the happiness in his eyes. “Genuinely, to look back at how you were when you were sat on the end of my bed in Aber… and then see the smile you had on your face all day today. It’s still right there.” He reached out and softly touched your cheek. “You’re like a different person.”

“It’s all down to you.” You felt yourself blushing under his touch.

“It’s not.” He shook his head. “It’s as much you as it is me. Just because I opened the door, didn’t mean you had to walk through it. You chose to do it, Y/N and I’m so pleased you did.”

“You made it easy… you’ve got a hard face to say no to.” Taron laughed gently and then covered his yawn with his hand. “Someone’s looking sleepy.” You reached out and caressed the skin of his lower thigh.

“Sorry, I’m knackered. Do you mind if we head back?”

“Not at all.” You finished the rest of your drink and stood up from the table, deciding that you’d ask the question when you got back to the villa instead. “You’ve still got a winning bet to claim.” Taron took hold of your outstretched hand and let you guide him down the path.

“Can I save my winnings for tomorrow? I think I’m going to be out as soon as my head hits the pillow tonight.” Taron let go of your hand to shield another yawn before his arm moved back to rest around your shoulders and pull you in closer to his side.

“Cash it in whenever you like, it’s not like I’m going anywhere anytime soon.”

“Good. I can’t believe I did so many months of this on my own… the thought of going back to that, it would be so shit.” Taron paused in the doorway to the villa with the key in his hand. “Hugh always said it was way easier when his family could travel with him or even just his wife, and I really get it now. It shifts your focus. Makes it easier to switch off from the job.”

“Hopefully there’s more to it than me just being a distraction from your job though…” You followed Taron into the villa and switched on the lights as he made a beeline straight for the bed, stripping to his boxers and collapsing down on his back with a sigh.

“What do you mean?” He mumbled in confusion as he let his eyes close.

“I mean… hopefully there’s more to us than just being friends… or friends with benefits.” All the confidence you had earlier started to drain from your body as the fear of saying anything more out loud hit your stomach. You crouched down and started to rummage through a suitcase in search of your phone charger, acting busy as Taron’s silence lingered on. “Have you seen my charger in here anywhere?” You asked through your nerves as you desperately tried to fill the awkward silence that encompassed the room. There was a faint murmur of noise from Taron and the sound of him moving about on the bed had you looking back over your shoulder at him. His eyes were still closed, a hand rested peacefully below his cheek and he’d drawn his knees higher up the bed as he’d fallen asleep. “What I really wanted to say was I love you, you idiot.” You said quietly to yourself, once again accepting that tonight wasn’t going to be the night either.

***

Taron’s hands gripped your bare waist and lifted you up to sit on the bonnet of the white open topped Jeep that he’d hired for your day of exploring. He stepped back and took a photo of you as you posed in your high waisted denim shorts, cropped t-shirt and cat eye sunglasses.

“Now if that doesn’t end up on your blog I’ll be disappointed! Got to show off my photography skills to the world.”

“I’ll need to steal your phone charger before that can happen. I swear Jane never packed mine and it’s still plugged in at the hotel in Beverly Hills!” You replied as you jumped down from the front of the car and climbed into the passenger seat instead.

“When she’s organised she’s great, but she’s useless in a crisis. So how is the blogging going? I meant to ask before but there’s been a lot going on.” Taron set off on the open road, heading south down the coast towards Byron Bay.

“Yeah, good I think. It’s not really headed down the path I expected it to but plenty of people seem to like it.”

“Where did you expect it to go?”

“I guess I thought it would be more like a travel blog. Reviewing hotels, restaurants, nice tourist spots… but it’s sort of turned into more of a personal journey.” You cringed back at your use of the word journey.

“Don’t say it like it’s a bad thing! It means your blog isn’t generic. People get sick of reading the same old stuff and with your personality behind it, it always was going to be popular. I knew that from the first post you let me read.”

“Never doubted me, did you?”

“Not even a little bit.” Taron took his eyes off the road and looked across at you through his sunglasses with a smile.

“Smug.” You laughed. “I’ve not posted anything up there for a while, they probably all think it’s me who’s dead, not my phone battery!”

“Just borrow my phone. Post the photo I took and let them know you’ve changed continents but you’re still very much alive and well.” Taron unlocked his phone and passed it over to you before turning the volume up on the radio as one of his favourite songs started. You reached his phone out the side of the car and recorded a short video of the two of you singing along and laughing away together, capturing another fun moment of your little adventure before you got down to writing the next blog post.

***

Fear not. I am alive and well. Sans phone for now due to my charger being 7,000 miles away in LA (I’ve borrowed David’s phone to post this.), so don’t expect any regular updates. I’ve just caught sight of my last post and I hate to be the bearer of bad news but that night was not the night. So anyone who thought my sudden silence was down to a life of romantic bliss, put your party hats away. We are literally no further forward despite the literal time difference between LA and Australia. That’s right, I’m down under. Literally and metaphorically. David ventured down under on The Night That Never Was and ohmydays. That man. I do owe him now though, thanks to a lost bet…

We spent the day surfing yesterday which was amazing. I should have known better than to accept his challenge though. Whoever managed to successfully stand up on the board first has the other one go down on them. I thought I had a chance. I’d already had a taste of the reward (or more like David had had a taste!) so I knew it was worth fighting for. But that man’s skills know no bounds and I didn’t even get a look in. The bastard!

Competitiveness aside we’ve been having a lot of fun. Australia is beautiful and so peaceful compared to LA. We have a gorgeous beach front villa where we can watch the sun rise each morning and right now we’re driving down the coast towards Byron Bay in an open top White Jeep. David has insisted I post this photo to show off his photography skills – humour him.

I keep trying to find or make the right kind of moment to talk to David about what all of this means, what we are, what we have, how we feel. But it seems like the harder I try the more things get in the way. Maybe it’s the world’s way of telling me to stop pushing. Maybe someone, somewhere, knows that my earlier fears were to be believed and that making this official, labelling it, and telling David how I feel is a really bad move.

Maybe. Maybe not.

I’m not going to push it today though. I’m just going to enjoy having the man I love by my side and make the most of the Australian sunshine.

BADQ x

Tag list: @egerton-sweetie @amanda-tallmadge @lizziespidiepridie @leanimal90 @anantheminmyheart22 @aynsleywalker @bohemianrhapsody86 @butterfliesslugswormsandothershi @manners-maketh-taron @livingincompletesilence @marvelmakeuplover @ohsosmutty

#Taron Egerton #Taron Egerton Fanfic #taron egerton fanfiction #taron egerton imagine #Taron x reader

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byronrashie · 2 years ago

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Three Pine Trees at Belongil… these were our family Christmas trees from the 70s that my Aunty planted out each year the following January… in a way they represent her three very much grown children , my gorgeous cousins, who all still live in Byron… she only recently told me this on the day I took this picture a few years ago 💛 All images of Byron Bay taken on Arakwal/Bundjalung country 💛❤️🖤 thankyou . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #byronbay #australia #health #surf #ocean #upf50+ #sunphjrotection #slow-fashion #slowfashionmovement #recycled #beach #sport #healthy #madeinaustralia #eco #skincare #nature #sunshine #sustainable #fitness #consciousness #surfing #skincancerawareness #hiking #lovensw #photography #photo #beach #ocean #clouds #landscape (at Bundjalung Country) https://www.instagram.com/p/CfIJVK-P9Zg/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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travelonlinetipsofficial · 3 years ago

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The Fren family experience a unique massage in Byron Bay | Travel Guides 2021

https://www.travelonlinetips.com/the-fren-family-experience-a-unique-massage-in-byron-bay-travel-guides-2021/

The Fren family experience a unique massage in Byron Bay | Travel Guides 2021

Videos #Videos #travel #love #photooftheday #nature #photography #instagood #travelgram #travelphotography #travelblog #travel #travelgram #travelphotography #wanderlust #instatravel #travelling #travel #travelgram #photooftheday #travelphotography #trip #instatravel #foodandtravel #foodie #foodporn #food #foodblogger #foodphotography #foodies #foodiesofinstagram #travel #foodpornshare #sogood #travelonlinetips #MarkWeins #holiday #vacation #staycation

#Videos

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my-kindred-blog · 6 years ago

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Best Maternity Photography Byron Bay| Professional Photographer|MyKindred

MyKindred offers the best services in Maternity photography in Byron Bay. Choose your package in affordable price and celebrate Mommy-to-be Moments with us.

#Maternity Photography Byron Bay #Family Photography Byron Bay #Elopement photographer Byron Bay #Photographer Byron Bay

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gonefishing01world · 4 years ago

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Gold Coast Whale Watching

It is a spectacular scene to watch the migration of whales along the east coast of Australia. The way whales move their tails, swim, lift and splash the water is a captivating sight for nature lovers. For Gold Coast residents, fishing and whale watching are the primary sports. Gone Fishing Gold Coast provides the best whale watching on the Gold Coast to refresh their minds. When the pandemic hit, and people got made to stay at home. It caused everyone to be depressed and worried. You can now take the necessary safety precautions and enjoy whale watching as this opportunity is only available for a few months a year.

Whale-Watching Season

Whales can get watched during their migration as they migrate between May to November, but the most suitable time for whale-watching is from June to October. Between May and June, whales move towards the north to give birth and then return in August to November with their young ones.

The humpback whales have one of the longest migratory journeys of any mammal, i.e., 5,000km, over three months each year along Australia’s east coast. Reason enough to book a whale watching tour between July and October each year. In this season, most nature lovers will be found on Gold Coast’s beaches. Another chance to watch the whale is when they pass Byron Bay or Sydney. Read on to find out the best whale watching on the Gold Coast.

Why is it recommended to rise Early for Whale-Watching?

There is no exact time to watch the whales on the Gold Coast in broad terms. But there are reasons why whale lovers prefer to rise early on a whale-watching day.

Peaceful Environment

In the morning, there is calmness in the environment and low wind pressure; therefore, it is suitable for whale lovers to spot a whale at a distance in the early morning.

Enjoy the Sunrise

If you go whale watching in the early morning, you get to enjoy the sunrise too, on the best whale watching on the Gold Coast by Gone Fishing.

Better Light for Photography

Making your whale-watching experience memorable by taking great pictures because morning light gives the best outdoor photography results.

Gone Fishing Gold Coast Whale-Watching

Gone Fishing is the best whale-watching company on the Gold Coast.

We have a unique whale-watching Gold Coast charter to make your day memorable.

We also offer a private charter if you want to spend time with your family and friends in your personal space.

Whale-watching is an engaging activity in 2021.

It will help strengthen the bond among family members, enjoy a day, or make a memory.

Due to the Covid-19, there are limited activities allowed by the higher authorities, so it is the best opportunity for the Australian residents to enjoy whale watching by booking the best whale watching on the Gold Coast by Gone Fishing.

We offer the most competitive rates for whale-watching charters on the Gold Coast.

Book your tour today by contacting us.

How to Book a Whale Watching Charter?

Don’t worry about your vehicles as we have free parking areas.

Our prices are reasonable

Bring your identity card with you.

#best whale watching on the Gold Coast

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