Perched over dramatic boulders with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Twelve Apostles mountain range, this double-level apartment in Clifton, Cape Town, South African has been stripped and reconfigured to create the ultimate luxury pad. Cocktail bar, wine cellar, cinema room, gym, bespoke detailing, extensive art collection and an infinity pool to match the view… check! Another amazing project that could only be by Antoni Associates.

Stepping down a steep slope in inner city Brisbane is a brick house of interconnected boxes. Walls slide wide open and privacy is assured with high brick walls. Private courtyards extend out from living areas but the secret jewel of this house is the view from the bedroom. Slide back the doors and your can almost pick the flowers from mature jacaranda and pointsiana trees. Brick walls meet a wall of green. Of course it helps to live in the subtropics. I’d love to be woken from my sleep by the drumming of rain from an early morning storm. The architect is the award winning James Russell. Real estate stalking in my part of the world. Link here while it lasts.

Joanna Swanson for Est

It’s that time again. Est Magazine Issue #8 is live. Creative Editor, Lynda Evans is justifiably excited by the year’s first offering. “This issue we take a peek inside homes based in France, Australia and the Netherlands, and find a common thread among the owners, that is to simplify life. Seeing the beauty in ordinary utilitarian objects, whether it is a timber alarm clock or a natural bristle dishwashing brush, the simplicity of design and its form takes it way beyond the realm of its function.”

Tara Pearce for Est

Marjon Hoogervorst for Est

“The Trend Report from Amsterdam’s AnoukB shows us how we can instill a little green into our lives. Symbolising renewal and regeneration, Pantone’s colour for 2013, Emerald Green, can positively affect change both in the home and in the way we see things. Looking to nature’s cues when introducing colour to our homes and wardrobes will ensure an instantly invigorated scheme.”

Marjon Hoogervorst for Est

“Founding editor of Inside Out Magazine, Karen McCartney takes us on a tour of London and her favourite haunts from stores to pubs to hotels, and I have to say Karen looks truly in her element ensconced at Ten Bells for our photo shoot. Joanna Swanson takes us on a tour through Oman in search of luxe accommodation and unique travel experiences and once again you will be working out how to fit this into your next travel itinerary.”

Georgina Skinner/Abigail Ahern for Est

Pared back, elegant simplicity. Spaces stripped back to their inherent form. Beautiful, precise yet subtle. Feilden Fowles Architects deliver pure, conceptually strong buildings. The first , a renovation to a 1930’s apartment sees emphasis on symmetry where the dark walnut-lined central axis with sliding elements provides intimate pockets in an open plan design. stripped back to its inherent form. The second home, a Cotswold extension to a working farmhouse emphasises its simple, functional structure.

Just a few of my favourite things. Beautiful old house, great mix of vintage and designer furniture, wonderful art, colour and books. Winner for Residential Decoration at the 2012 Australian Interior Design Awards, Huntingtower, Hawthorn by Atticus & Milo. Humour, whimsy, warmth and history. Wonderful elements for a family home.