This Vaucluse, Sydney garden may be young but it’s contemporary meets classic formality mix is fabulous. It will be perfect when the trees mature and the stakes and ties are no longer needed. Another great design by Harrison’s Landscaping.

It’s hard to take winter seriously in the sub-tropics where I live. Today it’s 22°C. Perfect weather for daydreaming about backyard redesigns. For small block inner city living this Bondi backyard is just about perfect. Pool? Tick. Outdoor kitchen and al fresco dining? Tick. Tropical plantings including statement container plants? Tick. A bit of grass and a swing for the kids? Tick. Privacy in the middle of a bustling city like Sydney? Tick. Who needs anything more? By Harrison’s Landscaping.

Nestled within 66 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and parkland in Tunbridge Wells, England is Hepburn House, a manor befitting a queen. Or a princess. Or a really high-paid actress. The decor is fairly minimal and essentially all white so it frankly is underwhelming but what I can say is that helps to not distract from the glorious details like many fireplaces, panelled walls, incredibly detailed plasterwork, 12′ ceilings, massive windows and dark wood floors. The rooms are SO BIG. What a dream home this would be to decorate. You could fit anything anywhere. *SIGH* Another location home available via Shoot Factory. 

I’m stalking an über cool apartment in the inner Sydney suburb of Darlinghurst. A stark black and white palette with shiny, slick surfaces is mellowed by hints of palest blue, raw wood and wicker, softened with linen and wool. Minimalist abstract art covers the walls. A stylish, sophisticated and unexpected mix for this ultimately comfortable take on urban living. Link here while it lasts.

Gaztelur is a restaurant/flower shop/antique shop/banquet hall and one of the most breathtaking venues I have ever seen. Designed by Marta de la Rica, it is an eclectic blend of vintage pieces from just about every era making each space refreshingly unique. I am in awe of the original architectural details that lend such a stunning backdrop to the furnishings and those incredible chandeliers.