Happy Weekend!

Happy Friday! And it's homemade pizza night at our home -mmmm delicious, and a weekend being spent with my darling husband & gorgeous baby girl. Also I'm quiet excited after much compiling and efforts, this weekend we're pressing the 'go live' button for my updated website for my styling design & colour consulting business 'Verandah Home+Garden Living Solutions'! Can't wait - stay tuned for that one!

Hope you have a Happy, Fun & Wonderful Weekend! Thanks for joining me this week at Palatial Living...see you next week! Take care & Enjoy, S xxx

Image via vi.sualize.us

New Hanging Gardens...

 

Think hanging plants are passe, or a thing of the past? Think again - here's a skilful, quirky & lovely way of hanging plants that look more like they are artfully suspended mid-air, than looking like the rattan basket of maiden hair bathroom feature from the early 80's! Check out Boskke.com, as also featured in 'Pavement' Australian Vogue Living July/ August 2010 issue, at a reasonable $39 each you too can get stylish & sustainable and bring a little eco-chic in your living or work space too! It's almost like a case of falling through the looking-glass with Alice! Enjoy x

image via Australian Vogue Living July/August 2010 & Boskke

Something About Typeface...

[1] Australian Home Beautiful August 2010

[2] Australian Country Style July 2010

[3] Wood Block Printing Letters, Rust - Avalon

I am in love with typeface 'letters', I know they have been on trend for a little while now but nothing says 'personal' when you add your own initial or a monogram to something that's yours - be it a living or office space, a bed head, to a book or a pillow/ quilt set! And these images from recent interior mags now proves to me that I need an 'S' for my design area, and maybe a 'V' too.

I particularly love our zinc green number '9' that my best girlfriend bought us from [fave store]  Rust in Avalon, as a special wedding anniversary present for our first home. The other day I bought my daughter Isabelle a capital 'I' from a children's store, I think it's getting a lick of 'Raspberry paint and being hung with a Pisatchio grograin ribbon above her cot....now for mine, I think an 'S' and a 'V' for Verandah too!

For more wooden letters & numbers be sure to check out madeit.com.au & etsy.com  

Images viz [1] Australian Home Beautiful August 2010 & [2] Australian Country Style July 2010, and Rust -  Avalon 

Mid Week House Snoop...Blue Mountains.

 This week's Mid Week House Snoop finds us an idyllic Palatial home set amongst the backdrop of the beautiful & unique Australian Blue Mountains in Wentworth Falls - this home built c. 1940 was at one time the 'Toll Hotel', and also home to famous Australian artist, John Olsen [one of my favourite Australian artists] who built a studio cabin on the grounds. It is steeped in history, beautiful surrounds, and luxurious appointments - a prefect Mountain retreat! Read On... Enjoy - S x

  An elegant pre-war creature - the front of the home.

 The living room also opens to an heated indoor pool and spa, that also then flows onto a steam room, gym

 Master bedroom with travertine ensuite - soak bath

 Updated - the contemporary stainless Ilve gas kitchen

The sandstone wine cellar which formed part of the Toll's Hotel has been transformed into a dramatic gothicstyle dining room with timber-lined cathedral ceilings and wrought-iron light fittings.

 

The original garden change rooms are now used as studio accommodation. The property's one time owner, well known Australian Artist John Olsen, built a cedar studio, now converted to wonderfully spacious two bedroom, two storey cottage providing plenty of room for guests, with two levels of living space and rustic timber finishes.

Agent's Blurb - R&W Wentworth Falls
FALLS HOUSE WONDERFUL COUNTRY RETREAT STEEPED IN CHARM

 

Nestled on the edge of the World Heritage Blue Mountains National Park, this wonderfully private estate is set amid approx 5560sqm of breathtaking grounds. Built on the location of the historic former Toll's Hotel, it encompasses a variety of buildings, many remaining from the site's previous incarnation. Enjoying one of the Blue Mountain's most picturesque settings, this idyllic retreat is positioned just a few hundred metres from the

dramatic Jamieson Valley to Mount Solitary and Wentworth Falls. Built c1940, the beautifully presented two-storey main residence exudes immense charm and character. It accommodates four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, including a gorgeous master suite with his and hers dressing rooms and a palatial Travertine ensuite. The sandstone wine cellar which formed part of the Toll's Hotel has been transformed into a dramatic gothicstyle dining room with timber-lined cathedral ceilings and wrought-iron light fittings. Additional living spaces include a stately lounge room with an open fireplace, a large family room, casual

living and dining, an elegant library and a study. A host of contemporary luxuries have also been added including a heated indoor pool and spa, a steam room, gym and a contemporary stainless Ilve gas kitchen.

 

ADDITIONAL DWELLINGS Two delightful guest houses for your family and friends, plus a rustic garden bungalow. A number of additional buildings are located around the property, providing plenty of versatile accommodation options for guests, staff or extended family. The former stables have been retained and transformed into a three bedroom guest house warmed by a wood burning combustion fire. The original garden change rooms are now used as studio accommodation. The property's one time owner, well known Australian Artist John Olsen, built a cedar studio, now converted to wonderfully spacious two bedroom, two storey cottage providing plenty of room for guests, with two levels of living space and rustic timber finishes.

 Features -

• Built-In Wardrobes
• Close to Transport
• Formal Lounge
• Garden
• Polished Timber Floor
• Pool
• Security Alarm
• Secure Parking
• Separate Dining
• 2 Additional Buildings

Property ID: 2008301716  on Domain.com.au

 

 

 

 images via Domain.com.au

Phenomenal Palatial Home...

You'd think with a $10mil price tag we'd get a few more images from the agent than this, not a bad listing if you can get it! But then maybe it's just to wet your appetite, and of course only those that will have change from $10mil need to further enquire about it's features... Either way it's certainly a Palatial Living home nestled away in a locale, of Cottage Point [on Sydney's Pittwater], that I adore and every now & then venture to the kiosk [for great burgers and fish & chips!]. Enjoy x

Agent's Blurb - LJ Hooker Mona Vale.
Absolute Waterfront - Sydney's Best Kept Secret - Available Only To A Select Few

A little known locale; Cottage Point with its sandy coves, dramatic cliffs, picturesque hills and crystal waters is one of Sydney's Pittwater's best kept secrets. Home to a handful of select residences this unique water wonderland is a mere 35 minutes from the Harbour Bridge.
Here in this inviting, natural setting you will find his world class resort style residence of outstanding cutting edge architectural design.
The land size is an impressive 1300sqm (approximately) and incorporates a stunning infinity edge swimming pool, spa and steam room. It even has its own nightclub/games room and gym.
By combining the complex natural landscape with carefully considered, imaginative and expert architecture the house has the most unbelievable views. Natural features are optimized while maintaining space and privacy between neighbours.Steps meander down to a small private beach with a large pontoon, boatshed and slipway with sandstone entertaining areas that are second to none.
Excellent parking and beautiful landscaped gardens give you a fabulous opportunity to live a lifestyle of space, natural seclusion and uncompromised luxury which are worlds away yet still ever so close to all conveniences.
Stunning stone work frame's the house, lawns and gardens. A peaceful paradise.
Details: Lachlan Elder 9979 8000
Features - In-Ground Pool

image via Domain.com.au

Home Lust...

Every now and then I get a serious case of home lust... in this month's Home Beautiful August 2010  issue showcases this gorgeous Northern Suburbs home to Jo & Rohan + family is no an exception. The fusion style French /Hampton's - Australian iinspired home is both family & style rich... Take a look and I'm sure you'll agree with me - it makes the Palatial Living list and I'm sure it will make yours too! Enjoy x

images via [Australian] Home Beautiful August 2010 issue. Now out at newstands.

styling Lousie Owens & photography Sue Stubbs

Friday Flowers - Happy Weekend!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend ahead... since 'Verandah Home + Garden Living Solutions' is now listed on Decorator's Catalogue I will working on the finishing touches of upgrading my website, as wells catching up on some [much needed] interior mag reading, and enjoying brunch with my husband & baby girl somewhere in there too! Thank you for making Palatial Living your blogspot to visit this week! Here's to your Happy Weekend! Take care & Enjoy. S x

Image via Home Beautiful August 2010

Creating Your Style...Helps with an Interior Professional!

I am often asked what does a interior stylist/ decorator do and how can you help me? The conversation often starts like '...I can't seem to put things together - I know what I like but I don't know how to do it, how do you put together a look that will work for me, but not cost a fortune?...'  I met a lovely lady today whilst I was shopping in a fab children's store [Lots 4 Tots, Concord NSW] for Isabelle today,  who sounded like she has some really great foundations but just needs a helping hand & an objective view in putting a few looks [seasonal or not] together for her home...well this is where I come in [or a professional colour consultant & interior stylist]!

So aside from calling me [Verandah Home+Garden Living Solutions to help solve this dilemma], really the first thing is that often those who know what they like already have the best foundation to solve a colour or decorating problem! Those who don't know what they like - often just need the confidence to narrow it down & then - wham - they've got it! Both types of people become fabulous Verandah clients & successful, happy lovers of their homes!  Often your best place to start is find your favourite interiors magazine and tear out the looks and colours you love... then try to find the similarities between these pictures. Sometimes there are often several different looks you have come up with and it may be a matter of working out which looks you like best and first up. Sometimes this can be agonising as often we like anything at once but this is also a major pitfall as we can end up having it all and really it looks like nothing at all! That's why I loved these images image from Home Beautiful July 2010 issue, where it really can be a matter of creating a look or style at home - that doesn't have to be expensive! It can be the best purchase in hiring the right design professional to come in, and help you use what you've got, or to inexpensively add, to the great foundation that you may already have - but might not yet know it!

If this sounds like you and need a friendly, yet objective hand, with creating a look through decorating - styling, or  a colour problem please drop me a line at sarah@verandahhomeliving.biz  or verandahhomeliving@gmail.com , for both e-consults and Sydney-based appointments . We'd love to help you in any way we can to make your home more enjoyable to live within! enjoy. S x

Images via Home Beautiful - July 2010

Mid Week House Snoop...Sydney's Lower North Shore at Northwood.

Having just watched a few 'new' eps of 'The Real Housewives of New York City' where they were all finishing up their 'summers' in the Hamptons' - my thoughts were firmly with the homes and sprawling grounds that they showcase on this far flung reality program that I am hideously addicted to! So now you know where my 'thoughts' have been, and of course my love of the Hampton's-style - I came across this beautiful home for Palatial Living's 'Mid Week House Snoop' located in Northwood [an idyllic suburb sandwiched between Longueville & Greenwich] on Sydney's Lower North Shore. I don't usually post as many images in one post but this home commands you see it from as many angles as possible it's historically & contemporar-ily Palatial! Enjoy x

[above] historic Federation frontage appeal with wrap around verandahs, fretwork and large sandstone block work - teamed with manicured box hedge borders. 

[above] an enviable seated view to the city skyline from the front verandah

  

[above] expansive verandah width accommodates for lounge seating and outdoor dining.

  

[above] Sydney city skyline view at dusk from the house

   

[above] a magnificent wine cellar - I'm not sure how many dinner parties this could last!

[above] light & airy for the main living & dining space - which is part of the more recent addition to the home.

     

  [above] glass panel fencing allows this generous lap pool appear more endless & inviting

       

[above & below] the stunning recent rear addition to the home designed by Kim Crestani of Order Architects

       

Agent's Blurb - McGrath Real Estate...

NORTHWOOD NSW 70 Northwood Road

Tailor made for all aspects of family life, ‘Aishling’ c1911 is a classic Federation residence enhanced by a Kim Crestani designed rear extension. Boasting plentiful space for both adults and children, it’s on 1,315sqm a stroll to ferry and bus transport.

Details:

• Formal living and dining with bay window and city views
• Drawing room opens to the front verandah, large wine cellar
• Skylit gas kitchen with marble island, European appliances
• Open plan family dining and living, bi-folds to the outdoors
• Idyllic entertainers’ terrace beside a heated swimming pool
• Lavish master bedroom with walk-through robe, deluxe ensuite
• Sumptuous bathrooms with luxurious finishes and heated floors
• Soaring ornate ceilings, original timberwork, wood fireplaces
• Underfloor heating plus central heating and air conditioning
• Child-friendly established garden, garage with car turntable

Images via Domain.com.au & McGrath Real Estate

Home Office Inspiration...

As you know I have been working on a home office decorating project - at my own at home! With both my husband & I working from home at various times, the previous home office furniture & layout did not cater for two people potentially working from home at the same time! It was getting cramped, we couldn't find things and filing was really backing up [urghhhh!], not to mention that it really wasn't very inspirational for either of us!

Here I have found some images that inspired me whilst I finish setting up and filing - it's clean but still soft & 'home-orientated' that could suit us... I particularly like the 'reused look' here too that is still contemporary which is very important for my home. Although I don't have the floorboards here [carpet instead] these painted boards are really appealing especially if there were more than 2 of you and are much easier to keep clean...maybe in the next home office - the stand alone back-yard cabin I have my eye on next time round!

[image above] My 'dream' next home office cabin, see Back Yard Cabins

Images via BHG & Back Yard Cabins

In Love with Accents of Rouge...

With cooler mornings, days & evenings upon us [here in the southern hemisphere - for Sydney] I have been cuddling in faux fur blankets, favourite quilts & blankets amongst masses of throw cushions on my lounge, with my darling baby girl, during different parts of the day. As each season I mix up my soft furnishing & accessory colours - the cooler months I particularly love using accents of rouge red - both blue base & orange based reds - teamed with plums & aubergines, and pops of ochre yellows & stormy steel blues - it led me to these rich, warm, cosy images that I had to share with you. Hope you feel snoozy-cosy too!

 

Images via [Australian] Home Beautiful - July 2010 & [Australian] House & Garden - May 2010

Mid Week House Snoop...On The Brisbane Waters.

One of my favourite places along the Brisbane Waters of Sydney's Central Coast is Daley's Point....Here is a beautiful Palatial Contemporary home that is set amongst the gun tree tops and also placed alongside the waters' edge. I love the use of timber, colour bonded metal, stone, glass and water [with horizon pool] - just divine. Take look and see why it made Palatial Living's 'Mid Week House Snoop'...

Agent's Blurb - Belle Property

For Sale - Price: Expressions of interest

Property ID: 1237609 - View By appointment

Lifestyle – Offering true symmetry, this dramatic property comprising of pavilion style, sits in harmony with its surrounding environment. You will be impressed with the modernist approach to luxury living, boasting elevated views & stunning leafy outlook views. The emphasis is on family living with style at its best.

Accommodation – The first pavilion offers a self contained studio set over two levels with its own grassed & decking area for entertaining, the main residence offers a flexible floor plan spanning over four levels for elegant spacious family living. Four large terraces all with spectacular water views, which create indoor/outdoor entertaining areas, state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen.

Features – Impeccably appointed with no expense spared, stylish wet edge pool overlooking Brisbane water, two cascading waterfalls, two fireplaces, ducted air conditioning, sauna, gourmet kitchen, fully equipped bar, terraced manicured gardens, inclinator that takes you from entry level to the waters edge, massive boat shed with a self contained studio/entertaining area on the second level, fully serviced jetty with a deep water mooring that can accommodate a boat of virtually any size, located on 1619sqm in an estate like setting.

Properties of this nature rarely cross real estate market’s shores. Land Size: 1619 sqm

Images via Domain.com.au & Belle Property

Happy Weekend!

Happy Friday... Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

If you have sunny skies & some free time over the weekend it would be lovely to eat & drink outdoors with some good friends...these buttercup yellow garden chairs & setting teamed with silver grey - makes it all the more cheerful & friendly, and contemporary!

Thanks for joining me at Palatial Living this week, take care & enjoy. S x

Image via Snippet & Ink

Style at The Lauder Homes...

I can very much see myself within these beautiful spaces of the Aerin Lauder Zinterhofer's homes, who is grand-daughter of Estée   & in her own right - senior vice president and creative director of Estée Lauder, both the Hampton's country house and the Manhattan apartment she shares with her husband... how very signature Lauder & very Palatial!

In East Hampton, the grounds, which feature an English knot garden, were designed by Perry Guillot.

The living room of the Manhattan apartment was designed by Jacques Grange. The paintings are by Yves Klein (left) and Lucio Fontana; a 17th-century walnut table holds a lamp by Alberto Giaco­metti and a sculpture by Alexander Calder

The Manhattan living room includes a pair of Jean-Michel Frank armchairs upholstered in a Christopher Hyland fabric and a floor lamp by Alberto Giacometti; club chairs by Paul Dupré-Lafon flank the fireplace, the painting above the sofa is by Robert Ryman, and the braided rug is from Le Décor Français.

In Manhattan, the dressing room chandelier is by Baguès, the wall covering is by Gracie, and the circa-1970 desk is by Gabriella Crespi.

The tablecloth in the Manhattan dining room is made of a Jim Thompson silk, the ceiling fixture is by Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, the painting is by Alberto Burri, and the wall color is a custom mix by Donald Kaufman Color.

Antique delft vases are displayed on rococo wall brackets in the East Hampton dining room; the Regency table is surrounded by Federal-style chairs, and the rug is by AM Collections.

Images viz Elle Decor. Written by Kristina Stewart Ward • Photographed by Simon Upton [fabulous Australian]; exterior photography by William Waldron • Produced By Cynthia Frank