It was a 1960s house that was too small for its family. They loved their home but they needed more room. Nothing huge and definitely not something that ignored its mid century bones. Enter Melbourne-based Nest Architects. The house grew to meet the family’s needs, kept its mid mod mojo and everyone lived happily ever after.

Today is the day that Australia grinds to a halt… all for a horse race. Office workers put their computers to sleep and leave phones unanswered. Shop assistants take furtive glances at television monitors between serving dwindling numbers of customers. Ladies lunch in oversized hats and even school children take part in teacher organised sweep stakes. If the Melbourne Cup is not your thing then perhaps some stalking, just a quick six including one we have had holiday daydreams about. Click on the images to head to the listings. All via Domain.

Another week, another beautiful English-style kitchen accept this time with a twist on the traditional. I love the architectural details of this period home and the kitchen by Blakes London sits perfectly within its historic shell while still having all the mod cons. Not sure what I like best… the amazing marble island, the beautifully detailed cupboards or that super sexy tap.

Yes you read that title correctly. Christmas issue! Already? Eeeck! I must admit I haven’t even thought about the holidays yet but perhaps these sneak peeks from the Christmas issue of Inside Out, out today, will give me the nudge I need. I’ll let Matilda Duffercy, Senior and Social Editor of the magazine, explain what’s between the pages.

As the year has galloped past, I’m emailing you to let you know about our November issue (hitting newsagents and digital outlets on Monday), which also happens to be our Christmas edition! There are lots of fantastic ideas for getting into the festive spirit in whatever degree you see fit. Even if you’re more into the entertaining angle of this time of year, then you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Our cover home is really beautiful. The home manages to exist as a country-meets-coastal cottage, and the backdrop just perfect to showcase our take on a merry & bright Christmas. I’ve also included a pic of the dining room to showcase the owner, Lee’s (of @mavendolls) fresh take on classic style. This feature also offers lots of easy craft projects for cheery touches during this season. Cover and dining room styling by Vanessa Colyer Tay. Photography by Maree Homer.

Our clever style editor Jessica Hanson has also pulled together her edit of the best decorative touches for a design-savvy Christmas, as well as all the best cards and wraps for rocking gifts! Christmas branch and cards styling by Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper. Paper branch made by Benja Harney.

We asked seven local design talents for their spin on a traditional Christmas wreath and the results are gorgeous! Here’s ceramicist Ingrid Tuft’s beautiful design. Wreath styling by Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper. Wreath made by ceramicist Ingrid Tufts.

Now, let’s get to the food. V. important! We’ve pulled together ideas for the all-important ham (of course) but also the smaller bites that can work for all sorts of occasions before and after December 25th. The cheese, the nibbles, the anti-pasti that are perfect for guests dropping in and low-key get-togethers. There’s lots of info on assembling the perfect cheese boards and the like so you’ll pull off easy entertaining with flair. Entertaining Food styling by Kristen Wilson. Styling Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper.

I love this issue!

The November issue, out today, looks amazing but don’t fret if you aren’t in Australia. You can read along on Zinio, Google Play, the Apple Newsstand and Nook.

If you have to drag your sorry self into work on a weekend then it better be somewhere stylish. Chicago Ansada Office by Sydney-based Those Architects. (This one’s for all the Cubs fans.)