With its opening on Friday, 24th October, the Asahi Super Dry Extra Cold Bar will give Sydney’s most discerning drinkers the opportunity to taste Asahi Super Dry and Asahi Super Dry Black served to perfection - poured fresh, at sub-zero temperatures. Opening night was a hit, and here are the pictures to prove it.
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Already a huge success in other parts of the world, including Japan and Korea, the Asahi Super Dry Extra Cold Bar will be conveniently located on Bligh Street, in the Sydney CBD. Boasting a relaxed vibe and serving an innovative menu of bar snacks to complement the dry, crisp and refreshing flavour of Asahi Super Dry, Asahi is confident it will create an unforgettable and unrivalled experience for Sydney-siders, this summer.
Speaking of the excitement surrounding the launch of the Asahi Super Dry Extra Cold Bar, Asahi Premium Beverages Marketing Manager Michael Vousden anticipates a steady flow of beer enthusiasts, throughout the hotter months. “We know once people try Asahi Super Dry in its perfect state - poured fresh and served extra cold - they’ll immediately appreciate the concept of the ‘perfect serve’. This in essence, is the driving force behind the Asahi Super Dry Extra Cold Bar.
“By chilling Asahi Super Dry beer to -2 degrees, the beer head maintains its high bubble density for longer, which creates a smoother texture, and ultimately makes it more refreshing. We’re looking forward to sharing the Asahi experience with as many people as possible this summer,” said Vousden. If a nice cold beer on a sunny afternoon wasn’t incentive enough, Asahi Super Dry Extra Cold Bar will feature Asahi Super Dry Black Extra Cold – Asahi Super Dry’s slightly maltier, fuller bodied, yet still refreshing and crisp variant – making it the first venue in Australia to feature the dark lager in draught.
Acting as the perfect platform, Asahi will bring the inspirational twelve-month program of Silver Sessions to a close at the Extra Cold Bar, this December.
The Asahi Silver Sessions applaud today’s creative agents of cool who represent the Asahi Super Dry principles of sophistication, creativity and distinction. Previous Silver Sessions speakers have included: actor Gabriel Macht from US series Suits, award-winning artist Vincent Fantauzzo, Australian composer Jed Kurzel, Senior Curator of MONA Nicole Durling and architect Peter Maddison.
Asahi
asahibeer.com.au
abc
Instead of being demolished, as planned, the quintessentially Melbourne watering hole once again graces Abbotsford’s Victoria Street with its lovingly restored 1923 façade – keeping its iconic green walls. Sand Hill Road owners, Matt and Andy Mullins, Tom Birch and Doug Maskiell, stepped in to save it.
“When we all heard the Terminus Hotel was slated for demolition we decided then and there we had to try and save it. Having lived in nearby Buckingham Street for years, the Terminus was our local and it’s an institution none of us wanted to see disappear,” says Matt Mullins of Sand Hill Road.
Like many of Sand Hill Road's work, the Terminus Hotel has dynamic and interesting spaces, whilst retaining the classic feel of a pub – and a Melbourne classic. Following a number of successful creative collaborations, Sand Hill Road turned to renowned hospitality design team Techné Architecture + Interior Design to help them resurrect and reinvigorate the Hotel.
Sand Hill Road provided Techné director, Justin Northrop, with two criteria; the first, to deliver a unique design that caters for today’s patrons while also acknowledging the venue’s illustrious past and the second, to create a lush garden space offering local residents respite from the surrounding concrete jungle and a meeting place for their family and friends.
“The venue has been almost completely dwarfed by apartment developments in recent years and it seemed entirely appropriate to provide a lush oasis for patrons surrounded by the ever increasing urban sprawl…
The interiors are a modern interpretation of the original pub, with the focal point being the art deco-inspired front bar. In contrast, the spectacularly kitsch upstairs ‘Paris Tropical’ bar space is a nod to the Terminus’ flamboyant history. The circulation between the internal spaces and the sprawling urban jungle beer garden is designed to be continuous and allows patrons to explore the pub and check out what else is going on throughout the venue,” says Northrop.
The new island public bar draws inspiration from the art deco era with antique gloss tiles and is connected overhead with striking copper tanks which pump fresh, unpasteurised Carlton Draught directly to the glasses of thirsty locals - the next best thing to tasting it straight from the brewery, located only 2 minutes away. A new stage area has also been created downstairs to cater for the much-anticipated return of the original team behind the infamous ‘Termo Bingo’, as well as a host of new entertainment acts.
A Tasmanian Oak staircase with a black steel piping balustrade feature leads patrons to the 1920s-inspired Paris Tropical area on level one – a boisterous and plush bar space featuring a bright yellow folded steel bar, lush jungle wallpaper and multicoloured furniture.
The centerpiece of the redesign is the 150 square metre beer garden, with nine metre high glass ceiling and 2 outdoor bars. Designed to emulate a forest canopy, the two level ‘urban jungle’ comes complete with full sized Waterhousea Floribunda trees and huge steel columns set at random angles that will become a living, breathing oasis offering patrons the opportunity enjoy the space.
“The relationship between the new beer garden and the surrounding buildings was challenging. The structure of the new canopy had to have a bold design to ensure it wasn’t overshadowed by the sheer size of the adjacent multi-storey blank wall. Landscaping was particularly crucial for this space with an abundance of planter boxes and mature trees vital to achieving the desired ambiance and atmosphere in the venue,” continues Northrop.
A successful project by all, the Terminus Hotel keeps a bit more of Melbourne's history alive.
The Terminus Hotel theterminushotel.com.au Sand Hill Road sandhillroad.com.au Techné Architecture + Interior Design techne.com.au abc
Like many of Sand Hill Road's work, the Terminus Hotel has dynamic and interesting spaces, whilst retaining the classic feel of a pub – and a Melbourne classic. Following a number of successful creative collaborations, Sand Hill Road turned to renowned hospitality design team Techné Architecture + Interior Design to help them resurrect and reinvigorate the Hotel.
Sand Hill Road provided Techné director, Justin Northrop, with two criteria; the first, to deliver a unique design that caters for today’s patrons while also acknowledging the venue’s illustrious past and the second, to create a lush garden space offering local residents respite from the surrounding concrete jungle and a meeting place for their family and friends.
“The venue has been almost completely dwarfed by apartment developments in recent years and it seemed entirely appropriate to provide a lush oasis for patrons surrounded by the ever increasing urban sprawl…
The interiors are a modern interpretation of the original pub, with the focal point being the art deco-inspired front bar. In contrast, the spectacularly kitsch upstairs ‘Paris Tropical’ bar space is a nod to the Terminus’ flamboyant history. The circulation between the internal spaces and the sprawling urban jungle beer garden is designed to be continuous and allows patrons to explore the pub and check out what else is going on throughout the venue,” says Northrop.
The new island public bar draws inspiration from the art deco era with antique gloss tiles and is connected overhead with striking copper tanks which pump fresh, unpasteurised Carlton Draught directly to the glasses of thirsty locals - the next best thing to tasting it straight from the brewery, located only 2 minutes away. A new stage area has also been created downstairs to cater for the much-anticipated return of the original team behind the infamous ‘Termo Bingo’, as well as a host of new entertainment acts.
A Tasmanian Oak staircase with a black steel piping balustrade feature leads patrons to the 1920s-inspired Paris Tropical area on level one – a boisterous and plush bar space featuring a bright yellow folded steel bar, lush jungle wallpaper and multicoloured furniture.
The centerpiece of the redesign is the 150 square metre beer garden, with nine metre high glass ceiling and 2 outdoor bars. Designed to emulate a forest canopy, the two level ‘urban jungle’ comes complete with full sized Waterhousea Floribunda trees and huge steel columns set at random angles that will become a living, breathing oasis offering patrons the opportunity enjoy the space.
“The relationship between the new beer garden and the surrounding buildings was challenging. The structure of the new canopy had to have a bold design to ensure it wasn’t overshadowed by the sheer size of the adjacent multi-storey blank wall. Landscaping was particularly crucial for this space with an abundance of planter boxes and mature trees vital to achieving the desired ambiance and atmosphere in the venue,” continues Northrop.
A successful project by all, the Terminus Hotel keeps a bit more of Melbourne's history alive.
The Terminus Hotel theterminushotel.com.au Sand Hill Road sandhillroad.com.au Techné Architecture + Interior Design techne.com.au abc
Many raw materials make for great lighting solutions, but there is ample reason why designers keep returning to the medium of wood. Few other things offer the warmth and beauty of natural timber, and it can be as contemporary as it is timeless.
Adhering very much to this philosophy is the TIMBERZOY series – a bespoke, Australian-made, modular LED system. Use one long section to replace drab office fluorescents, or combine sleek curves and 3-way joiners with straight sections to create any configuration that your mind can conjure. The end result provides a unique and energy-efficient design statement.
From a clean, modern look to a more organic and rustic one. These four pendant lights are carved from Paulownia, one of the fastest-growing and most sustainable trees in the world.
The simple lines of JIKA, SHEM, DVATE and SASA look stunning individually as well as part of a group, and with two sizes of the latter available as a dedicated LED option, you'll be doing your best for both the environment and your hip pocket.
But there’s nothing in the rule book to suggest that natural wood has to be completely austere. The distressed/industrial metal look is still very much in vogue, and by adding a timber twist, this new range of pendant lights exude a radiant, provincial vibe.
Handmade in India, the four different styles - RAND, ZAMIA, TRESS and PERRIN – are finished with an enamelled sheen and will help you forge a magical, unique atmosphere in any space.
All of the above – and much more besides - are available from lighting specialists About Space, with boutique showrooms in Fitzroy, Victoria, and Alexandria, NSW.
Head to aboutspace.net.au to find out more.abc
Adhering very much to this philosophy is the TIMBERZOY series – a bespoke, Australian-made, modular LED system. Use one long section to replace drab office fluorescents, or combine sleek curves and 3-way joiners with straight sections to create any configuration that your mind can conjure. The end result provides a unique and energy-efficient design statement.
From a clean, modern look to a more organic and rustic one. These four pendant lights are carved from Paulownia, one of the fastest-growing and most sustainable trees in the world.
The simple lines of JIKA, SHEM, DVATE and SASA look stunning individually as well as part of a group, and with two sizes of the latter available as a dedicated LED option, you'll be doing your best for both the environment and your hip pocket.
But there’s nothing in the rule book to suggest that natural wood has to be completely austere. The distressed/industrial metal look is still very much in vogue, and by adding a timber twist, this new range of pendant lights exude a radiant, provincial vibe.
Handmade in India, the four different styles - RAND, ZAMIA, TRESS and PERRIN – are finished with an enamelled sheen and will help you forge a magical, unique atmosphere in any space.
All of the above – and much more besides - are available from lighting specialists About Space, with boutique showrooms in Fitzroy, Victoria, and Alexandria, NSW.
Head to aboutspace.net.au to find out more.abc 
Its aim is to turn the traditional wardrobe into more than a place made to conceal and order, but one that reflects our taste and contains our everyday story. Designed with refined materials and streamlined by invisible technologies, a new way of living and enjoying the home can be created.
Hangar is precision engineered to be uniquely self-supporting - rackmounted wall panels and exposed floor to ceiling uprights create a support for the purpose-designed internal fittings. Each panel section is available in three heights and three widths, giving you flexibility to create a sophisticated and timeless wardrobe space, regardless of size.
Its open nature turns the back panels into an elegant design feature, which can be personalised with a wide range of colours and finishes - white or moka wood-finished melamine, matt lacquers from the Lema colour trend selection, mirrored, or lacquered glass - and can even be illuminated to give a soft, luminous glow. The exposed uprights, in bronzed anodised or gloss aluminium, add subtle sophistication, with the shelves and bases available in premium melamine or lacquer.
Hangar’s vast selection of luxury interior accessories provide the freedom to rationalise, organise and personalise. Purpose designed shelves, drawers, clothes racks and trays are all on offer to organise garments and accessories - from coats, shirts, pants and handbags to shoes, belts and ties. Refined detail, like removable trouser rods, adjustable rail heights and pull-out organisers encourage you to live in an environment thats not only intimate, but functional too.
Hanger by Lema is available exclusively at Rogerseller, on display in Melbourne.
Rogerseller
rogerseller.com.au
abc
Hangar is precision engineered to be uniquely self-supporting - rackmounted wall panels and exposed floor to ceiling uprights create a support for the purpose-designed internal fittings. Each panel section is available in three heights and three widths, giving you flexibility to create a sophisticated and timeless wardrobe space, regardless of size.
Its open nature turns the back panels into an elegant design feature, which can be personalised with a wide range of colours and finishes - white or moka wood-finished melamine, matt lacquers from the Lema colour trend selection, mirrored, or lacquered glass - and can even be illuminated to give a soft, luminous glow. The exposed uprights, in bronzed anodised or gloss aluminium, add subtle sophistication, with the shelves and bases available in premium melamine or lacquer.
Hangar’s vast selection of luxury interior accessories provide the freedom to rationalise, organise and personalise. Purpose designed shelves, drawers, clothes racks and trays are all on offer to organise garments and accessories - from coats, shirts, pants and handbags to shoes, belts and ties. Refined detail, like removable trouser rods, adjustable rail heights and pull-out organisers encourage you to live in an environment thats not only intimate, but functional too.
Hanger by Lema is available exclusively at Rogerseller, on display in Melbourne.
Rogerseller
rogerseller.com.au
abc 
Clients of the historic home wanted, not surprisingly, to retain the original feel. They wanted a kitchen and wardrobes that complemented the classic interior, but that also met their needs as a functional and robust space to handle frequent use and entertaining.To achieve this, they called on Poliform and their design service.
In the master bedroom, the New Entry wardrobe - finished with canaletto walnut - was chosen, fitted perfectly to meet the client's needs and taste.
Including both free standing elements and unique adaptable systems, the Poliform range of wardrobes is comprehensive. They are versatile, adaptable and able to be customised to any interior, and with the entire Poliform Design Service, makes the process especially seamless.
The Poliform Design Service has four components: Design Brief; Design Presentation; Order; and Installation.
With that, the team of highly qualified experienced designers can help you make the best decisions on layout, function and finishes, resulting in a tailor-made wardrobe that is functional and built to last. The team can work directly with a client’s architect, designer or builder, and the collection has a range of flexible details to suit an architect’s brief, ensuring that each project meets the needs of the client.
To ensure all requirements and budgets are met, a presentation of initial layout and cost estimate is offered, giving wardrobe details before finalising the design. Once approved, Poliform produce plans and elevations, with a full package of technical information issued when the order is placed.
Poliform's in-house installations co-ordinator will also manage onsite inspections, preparation and final installation, ensuring that every detail is installed efficiently.
Most popular products include:
Senzafine. All three opening options: leaf, folding and sliding doors are available in a minimal design, edged or framed, while interiors are design to allow tailored storage organisation.
Ubik is a system that maximises individuality, thanks to modular solutions. The Ubik system offers an evolved storage organisation, with a series of units and accessories.
Ego is characterised by an aesthetic of lightness and minimalism. Open spaces are achieved using leaf or folding doors along with back panels in transparent glass, to give a sense of openness.
Poliform
poliform.com.auabc
Including both free standing elements and unique adaptable systems, the Poliform range of wardrobes is comprehensive. They are versatile, adaptable and able to be customised to any interior, and with the entire Poliform Design Service, makes the process especially seamless.
The Poliform Design Service has four components: Design Brief; Design Presentation; Order; and Installation.
With that, the team of highly qualified experienced designers can help you make the best decisions on layout, function and finishes, resulting in a tailor-made wardrobe that is functional and built to last. The team can work directly with a client’s architect, designer or builder, and the collection has a range of flexible details to suit an architect’s brief, ensuring that each project meets the needs of the client.
To ensure all requirements and budgets are met, a presentation of initial layout and cost estimate is offered, giving wardrobe details before finalising the design. Once approved, Poliform produce plans and elevations, with a full package of technical information issued when the order is placed.
Poliform's in-house installations co-ordinator will also manage onsite inspections, preparation and final installation, ensuring that every detail is installed efficiently.
Most popular products include:
Senzafine. All three opening options: leaf, folding and sliding doors are available in a minimal design, edged or framed, while interiors are design to allow tailored storage organisation.
Ubik is a system that maximises individuality, thanks to modular solutions. The Ubik system offers an evolved storage organisation, with a series of units and accessories.
Ego is characterised by an aesthetic of lightness and minimalism. Open spaces are achieved using leaf or folding doors along with back panels in transparent glass, to give a sense of openness.
Poliform
poliform.com.auabc 
Fisher & Paykel create appliances deliberately ‘designed to match’ as a direct response to extensive, ongoing research with the design and architectural community regarding kitchen trends and customer preferences, as well as its own mission to offer products that are both desirable and durable.
Kitchens have become the sociable heart of the home and are therefore increasingly incorporated into, or exposed to living areas. So it’s unsurprising that appearance has become as important as performance. Fisher & Paykel research confirms consumers value styling as well as performance when it comes to choosing appliances, and kitchen designers are drawn to a cohesive look.
The sleek styling of Fisher & Paykel’s Designed to Match range of kitchen appliances creates the contemporary look that flows so smoothly through living and kitchen spaces.
The Designed to Match range uses the same materials and finishes, the same details in handles or dials and exactly the same proportions across ovens, cooktops, refrigerators and dishwashers. So any number of Fisher & Paykel kitchen appliances will line up perfectly. Consistent 480mm, 600mm or 900mm product sizes ensure designers can match appliance lines within kitchen cabinetry. This is true for all products including more ergonomic, smaller DishDrawerTM dishwashers and CoolDrawerTM multi-temperature fridges. These can be distributed around the kitchen or elsewhere, including on the living or dining side of an open-plan kitchen.
Mark Elmore, Head of Industrial Design at Fisher & Paykel Appliances
Premium materials and finishes enhance timeless styling and durability. Black, Stopsol glass, brushed or polished stainless steel and anodised aluminium, machined stainless steel dials and edge-lit LED controls, all combine to create the highest aesthetic and user-friendly standards.
In the Designed to Match range, Fisher & Paykel’s 60cm oven and mix-and-match Gas on Glass and Induction cooktops been internationally recognised – for both design and performance – by German-based Red Dot Awards. These modular cooktops are styled with a stainless steel strip which visually unifies any combination of cooktops you might choose.
Fisher & Paykel
fisherpaykel.com
abc
The sleek styling of Fisher & Paykel’s Designed to Match range of kitchen appliances creates the contemporary look that flows so smoothly through living and kitchen spaces.
The Designed to Match range uses the same materials and finishes, the same details in handles or dials and exactly the same proportions across ovens, cooktops, refrigerators and dishwashers. So any number of Fisher & Paykel kitchen appliances will line up perfectly. Consistent 480mm, 600mm or 900mm product sizes ensure designers can match appliance lines within kitchen cabinetry. This is true for all products including more ergonomic, smaller DishDrawerTM dishwashers and CoolDrawerTM multi-temperature fridges. These can be distributed around the kitchen or elsewhere, including on the living or dining side of an open-plan kitchen.
Mark Elmore, Head of Industrial Design at Fisher & Paykel Appliances
Premium materials and finishes enhance timeless styling and durability. Black, Stopsol glass, brushed or polished stainless steel and anodised aluminium, machined stainless steel dials and edge-lit LED controls, all combine to create the highest aesthetic and user-friendly standards.
In the Designed to Match range, Fisher & Paykel’s 60cm oven and mix-and-match Gas on Glass and Induction cooktops been internationally recognised – for both design and performance – by German-based Red Dot Awards. These modular cooktops are styled with a stainless steel strip which visually unifies any combination of cooktops you might choose.
Fisher & Paykel
fisherpaykel.com
abc 
After two years of designing, refining and sampling, Greg Natale in collaboration with Designer Rugs has launched an 8-piece Hand Knot rug collection – NEW MODERN - that features bold, sophisticated patterns and striking graphic designs for which Natale is known and showcases the next frontier in his creative vision.
Some may say that if it’s good enough for Belle Interior Designer of the Year 2014, Greg Natale, then surely that is a good enough commendation for the rest of us, with the esteemed designer outfitting his own apartment with one of the designs from his first ever Hand Knot rug collection.
“This is very much a contemporary collection, whereas my previous range was more classically inclined. If I had to name a favourite it would be ‘TOKYO’, because I designed this for my own apartment. The angles and the monochromes fit the contemporary design of my place perfectly, so I guess ‘TOKYO’ will always be a special piece for me,” Natale enthuses.
“NEW MODERN is perfect for contemporary living, in a residential or commercial environment,” says Natale. The rugs are made from 100% Tibetan Wool, with custom colouring and sizing available. Each rug has been named after a city, as travel provides one of Natale’s foremost inspirations.
“Not every rug is necessarily inspired by the city itself but they are inspired by my travels. So many of my inspirations for design come from travelling, it seems fitting to pay tribute to some of the places I’ve been.”
More specifically, Natale explains.
LONDON
“I wanted to include a circle pattern to balance the other geometric angles in the collection. The curves work well to soften a space.”
LOS ANGELES
“Amid this contemporary collection I wanted to feature a rug that was a little more classical in its inspiration. I called it Los Angeles because of its deco elements – they’re a strong part of LA designs.”
MEMPHIS
“This is more of a nod to the post-modern design movement than the city. I’ve always been inspired by the Memphis Group, and the vibrant buzz of the patterns in this rug reference that era.”
MIAMI
“This minimalist blue and white pattern feels a little bit nautical and a little bit urban, perfect for contemporary coastal style.”
MILANO
“The dramatic blend of geometrics and colours of this rug have an Italian feel for me.”
RIO
“This was inspired by the beautifully detailed mosaic pavements in Rio.”
SAINT TROPEZ
“The only circular rug in the collection, this not only brings an organic element into the mix, but the long languid lines suggest the indulgence and glamour of the city.”
TOKYO
“Dynamic and precise, the lines of this rug make me think of the city’s intricate yet structured network of transport, buildings and bustle.”
Natale does concur that the trend for quality Hand Knot rugs is growing and worth the investment.
“When it comes to special pieces such as rugs, people are more willing to invest in the individual skills and care that go into Hand Knotted rugs. I love the look and finish that Hand Knotted rugs have, and their lovely dense surface and the way it plays with light. These factors are especially important when you are working with intricate patterns,” Natale further explains.
Like any partnership, it’s the effort on both sides that makes it a success, and for Designer Rugs, the journey of working with Greg Natale is a historic and proudly triumphant collaboration.
“We always love the opportunity of working with Greg (Natale) and this is our third project working with him. His ideas, creativity and ability to turn an ‘inspiration bite’ into an exquisite rug or Axminster Carpet design are unflappable,” says Designer Rugs Managing Director Yosi Tal.
Tal is also quick to highlight that Designer Rugs has the flexibility to custom-make the rugs and carpets to specifications, even tweaking the design.
“We pride ourselves not just on our heritage of producing exceptional quality rugs and Axminster carpet, but our reputation has been built on creating unique and inspirational custom-made rugs.”
For more information visit designerrugs.com.auabc
“NEW MODERN is perfect for contemporary living, in a residential or commercial environment,” says Natale. The rugs are made from 100% Tibetan Wool, with custom colouring and sizing available. Each rug has been named after a city, as travel provides one of Natale’s foremost inspirations.
“Not every rug is necessarily inspired by the city itself but they are inspired by my travels. So many of my inspirations for design come from travelling, it seems fitting to pay tribute to some of the places I’ve been.”
More specifically, Natale explains.
LONDON
“I wanted to include a circle pattern to balance the other geometric angles in the collection. The curves work well to soften a space.”
LOS ANGELES
“Amid this contemporary collection I wanted to feature a rug that was a little more classical in its inspiration. I called it Los Angeles because of its deco elements – they’re a strong part of LA designs.”
MEMPHIS
“This is more of a nod to the post-modern design movement than the city. I’ve always been inspired by the Memphis Group, and the vibrant buzz of the patterns in this rug reference that era.”
MIAMI
“This minimalist blue and white pattern feels a little bit nautical and a little bit urban, perfect for contemporary coastal style.”
MILANO
“The dramatic blend of geometrics and colours of this rug have an Italian feel for me.”
RIO
“This was inspired by the beautifully detailed mosaic pavements in Rio.”
SAINT TROPEZ
“The only circular rug in the collection, this not only brings an organic element into the mix, but the long languid lines suggest the indulgence and glamour of the city.”
TOKYO
“Dynamic and precise, the lines of this rug make me think of the city’s intricate yet structured network of transport, buildings and bustle.”
Natale does concur that the trend for quality Hand Knot rugs is growing and worth the investment.
“When it comes to special pieces such as rugs, people are more willing to invest in the individual skills and care that go into Hand Knotted rugs. I love the look and finish that Hand Knotted rugs have, and their lovely dense surface and the way it plays with light. These factors are especially important when you are working with intricate patterns,” Natale further explains.
Like any partnership, it’s the effort on both sides that makes it a success, and for Designer Rugs, the journey of working with Greg Natale is a historic and proudly triumphant collaboration.
“We always love the opportunity of working with Greg (Natale) and this is our third project working with him. His ideas, creativity and ability to turn an ‘inspiration bite’ into an exquisite rug or Axminster Carpet design are unflappable,” says Designer Rugs Managing Director Yosi Tal.
Tal is also quick to highlight that Designer Rugs has the flexibility to custom-make the rugs and carpets to specifications, even tweaking the design.
“We pride ourselves not just on our heritage of producing exceptional quality rugs and Axminster carpet, but our reputation has been built on creating unique and inspirational custom-made rugs.”
For more information visit designerrugs.com.auabc 
Above: Kentish fire and heavy boots 1982
Robert Jacks was one of the most mercurial artists Australia has ever produced. This wondrous exhibition celebrates a lifetime of work.Sadly, Jacks did not live to see it. He died at the age of 71 just a few weeks before it opened. But he did live long enough to decide which pieces should go in it.
Acuminated granite 1984-85
Noble gair and countenance 1981
The show is as much an installation as an exhibition. And this is as it should be. Because there was always something theatrical, something magical about Jacks’ work. He was always experimenting. Trying things out. Playing with materials. His art was like a laboratory. And like an alchemist, he kept exploring what he could do with a fairly limited range of raw materials.
He never repeated himself, even though certain images and marks recur throughout his career. He was just 23 and already something of a prodigy when he left Australia in 1967 to head for New York, the mecca of contemporary art. Unable to gain entry to the U.S., he went to Toronto for two years, before finally getting to NYC ─ where he was mugged on his very first day.
Always regarded as an abstractionist, in fact Jacks’ imagery derived from the world around him. Throughout his career, the shape of the guitar ─ a homage to Picasso ─ provided him with good workable stuff.
Timbrel and harp soothe 1965
Knave paltry and poghuing picked green 1972
Metropolis 6 1984
But perhaps even more important was the cityscape of New York and the fractured, edgy landscape of Mexico where he spent some time. The main abstract form to run through his work was the grid. Jacks was strongly influenced by minimalist art, prominent during the 1970s, and its liking for reducing forms down to mathematical simplicity.
Jacks could work on any scale. The ‘cityscape’ oil paintings of the 1980s were major statements, conveying the jagged skyline and compressed energy of New York, although he had returned to Australia by then.
Transit of shadows in nocturnal predominance no. 2 1987
Red painting 1968
But he did some luminous watercolour works, sometimes on a large scale as well. His small-scale etchings and pencils works are among the delights of the exhibition. No Australian artist was as urbane or as invariably well-dressed as Robert Jacks. No artist was as generous. And in the hothouse atmosphere of the art world, no one ever had a bad word to say about him.
Retrospectives often end up showing the limitations of an artist. This one shows an artist constantly re-inventing himself.
Transient notion 1979
Robert Jacks 2009. Photo by Ian H. Hill
Robert Jacks: Order and Variation
National Gallery of Victoria until February 15, 2015.
ngv.vic.govauabc
Acuminated granite 1984-85
Noble gair and countenance 1981
The show is as much an installation as an exhibition. And this is as it should be. Because there was always something theatrical, something magical about Jacks’ work. He was always experimenting. Trying things out. Playing with materials. His art was like a laboratory. And like an alchemist, he kept exploring what he could do with a fairly limited range of raw materials.
He never repeated himself, even though certain images and marks recur throughout his career. He was just 23 and already something of a prodigy when he left Australia in 1967 to head for New York, the mecca of contemporary art. Unable to gain entry to the U.S., he went to Toronto for two years, before finally getting to NYC ─ where he was mugged on his very first day.
Always regarded as an abstractionist, in fact Jacks’ imagery derived from the world around him. Throughout his career, the shape of the guitar ─ a homage to Picasso ─ provided him with good workable stuff.
Timbrel and harp soothe 1965
Knave paltry and poghuing picked green 1972
Metropolis 6 1984
But perhaps even more important was the cityscape of New York and the fractured, edgy landscape of Mexico where he spent some time. The main abstract form to run through his work was the grid. Jacks was strongly influenced by minimalist art, prominent during the 1970s, and its liking for reducing forms down to mathematical simplicity.
Jacks could work on any scale. The ‘cityscape’ oil paintings of the 1980s were major statements, conveying the jagged skyline and compressed energy of New York, although he had returned to Australia by then.
Transit of shadows in nocturnal predominance no. 2 1987
Red painting 1968
But he did some luminous watercolour works, sometimes on a large scale as well. His small-scale etchings and pencils works are among the delights of the exhibition. No Australian artist was as urbane or as invariably well-dressed as Robert Jacks. No artist was as generous. And in the hothouse atmosphere of the art world, no one ever had a bad word to say about him.
Retrospectives often end up showing the limitations of an artist. This one shows an artist constantly re-inventing himself.
Transient notion 1979
Robert Jacks 2009. Photo by Ian H. Hill
Robert Jacks: Order and Variation
National Gallery of Victoria until February 15, 2015.
ngv.vic.govauabc 
Designed by and for architects Thomas Bailey and Megan Baynes’ of Room 11, the box-like home is a special place. “It was a good opportunity for us to clarify our architectural values and have them manifested directly,” says Thomas, Architect + Director of Room11.
Clearly conscious of the natural environment, the architects/owners, use the surroundings as their guiding point. “The climate had a very significant influence on the project,” he says.
In order to combat the “cold, damp and claustrophobic” environment, due to low cloud and mist, creating an interior that was “generous, warm, and spacious” was crucial. “While this is a beautiful area, it is challenging for long term occupation,” says Thomas.
The open and simple floor-plan both allows the interior to feel spacisous, but also maximise sunlight and warmth. Polycarbonate cladding on the eastern and western facades “render luminous shadow walls which enable the house to be concurrently light and contained”, and keeping apertures to a minimum ensure “the insulative performance of the overall skin [is] high in order to deal with cold periods of the year”.
In terms of visual surroundings, this is where Little Big House gets its kudos. To ensure there was “no disruption between the aspect and the viewer,” the architects have taken particular care in designing the details around the windows. “We like this relationship to be as direct as possible,” says Thomas. “We believe that a well-conceived interior that is punctured by perfect views will be delightful to live in.”
But the positioning of windows not only creates a seamless viewing line, it also makes the place feel especially private; views reach out from in, rather than in from out. From the nearby road and neighbouring houses, Little Big House is somewhat hidden, making itself at home quietly on the hill.
DROPBOX
Architect: Room 11
Kind of project: New home
Location: Fern Tree, Tasmania
Parameters of project:160sqm, 2 beds, 1 bath
Date of completion: December 2008
Room 11
room11.com.au
abc
The open and simple floor-plan both allows the interior to feel spacisous, but also maximise sunlight and warmth. Polycarbonate cladding on the eastern and western facades “render luminous shadow walls which enable the house to be concurrently light and contained”, and keeping apertures to a minimum ensure “the insulative performance of the overall skin [is] high in order to deal with cold periods of the year”.
In terms of visual surroundings, this is where Little Big House gets its kudos. To ensure there was “no disruption between the aspect and the viewer,” the architects have taken particular care in designing the details around the windows. “We like this relationship to be as direct as possible,” says Thomas. “We believe that a well-conceived interior that is punctured by perfect views will be delightful to live in.”
But the positioning of windows not only creates a seamless viewing line, it also makes the place feel especially private; views reach out from in, rather than in from out. From the nearby road and neighbouring houses, Little Big House is somewhat hidden, making itself at home quietly on the hill.
DROPBOX
Architect: Room 11
Kind of project: New home
Location: Fern Tree, Tasmania
Parameters of project:160sqm, 2 beds, 1 bath
Date of completion: December 2008
Room 11
room11.com.au
abc 
Name: James Pratt
Where you are from/live: Born and raised in Sydney. Currently living, working and enjoying the Queensland lifestyle in Brisbane.
What do you do: Designer/maker of furniture and commercial spaces. Founder of Exit Eighty Six.
When did you first know you wanted to be a designer/maker?
I was first a maker, leaving school at a young age pursue a carpentry apprenticeship. I developed a passion for turning beach shacks into beautiful family homes and it wasn't long before my external focus moved internal and I began to make custom furniture for houses that I had built.
Your latest project: Two Trees Espresso, South Brisbane.
Your most prized project: A step stool I made when I was 14.
Where do you find inspiration?
My main source of inspiration comes from the people that have sacrificed their money, time and comfort to do what they love – and just design. Being a wood addict, I am constantly buying timber slabs. Alot of inspiration comes from the material, how it works beneath my hands, and simply just its natural raw beauty.
Three people that inspire/excite you:
1) Danny Hess. Timber surfboard innovator.
2) Mokkouyamagen. Japanese woodworker.
3) Cloudia Elder. Professional contemporary dancer, and my girl.
If it wasn’t timber, what material would you use?
Metal. It's sharp, it's greasy, it's hot, it turns your hands black and it’s most definitely a labour of love.
What is the most rewarding part about fitting out a commercial space?
Handing back the keys, seeing the smiles and watching people enjoy their new lease on life.
What excites you about the creative scene in Brisbane currently?
It's vibeing man! It's not as large as Melbourne or Sydney and we’re ok with that. Spend a week with me in my workshop located in the RedHill Foundry and you’ll see the likes of other designers, fabricators, beekeepers, photographers and more coming and going daily.
What is your favourite…
Residential space: Friends farm in the Byron bay hinterland.
Commercial space: The foundry (a large old warehouse in Redhill Brisbane that homes about 7 small businesses)
Decorative product: My Milieu getup.
Functional product: A step ladder
Item in your studio: Definitely my speakers - life's better with tunes.
Time of day to work/play: Make in the mornings, enjoy the sun and surf in the afternoon.
Meal: The tradie in me wants to say chicken parmy.
Restaurant: Irving Place in Wintergarden, Brisbane City. https://www.facebook.com/irvingplacecafe
What does the term ‘Design Hunter’ mean to you?
Someone who is observant of their surroundings, backs their own mind and hunts for a stronger purpose beyond just the next trend. Design Hunters will make their own mark and follow their own movement.
Exit Eighty Six exiteightysix.com abc
Your most prized project: A step stool I made when I was 14.
Where do you find inspiration?
My main source of inspiration comes from the people that have sacrificed their money, time and comfort to do what they love – and just design. Being a wood addict, I am constantly buying timber slabs. Alot of inspiration comes from the material, how it works beneath my hands, and simply just its natural raw beauty.
Three people that inspire/excite you:
1) Danny Hess. Timber surfboard innovator.
2) Mokkouyamagen. Japanese woodworker.
3) Cloudia Elder. Professional contemporary dancer, and my girl.
If it wasn’t timber, what material would you use?
Metal. It's sharp, it's greasy, it's hot, it turns your hands black and it’s most definitely a labour of love.
What is the most rewarding part about fitting out a commercial space?
Handing back the keys, seeing the smiles and watching people enjoy their new lease on life.
What excites you about the creative scene in Brisbane currently?
It's vibeing man! It's not as large as Melbourne or Sydney and we’re ok with that. Spend a week with me in my workshop located in the RedHill Foundry and you’ll see the likes of other designers, fabricators, beekeepers, photographers and more coming and going daily.
What is your favourite…
Residential space: Friends farm in the Byron bay hinterland.
Commercial space: The foundry (a large old warehouse in Redhill Brisbane that homes about 7 small businesses)
Decorative product: My Milieu getup.
Functional product: A step ladder
Item in your studio: Definitely my speakers - life's better with tunes.
Time of day to work/play: Make in the mornings, enjoy the sun and surf in the afternoon.
Meal: The tradie in me wants to say chicken parmy.
Restaurant: Irving Place in Wintergarden, Brisbane City. https://www.facebook.com/irvingplacecafe
What does the term ‘Design Hunter’ mean to you?
Someone who is observant of their surroundings, backs their own mind and hunts for a stronger purpose beyond just the next trend. Design Hunters will make their own mark and follow their own movement.
Exit Eighty Six exiteightysix.com abc
The Spence and Lyda showroom is a kind of treasure trove for the home and Fiona Spence has dipped into it to style a penthouse at Crown Group’s latest multi-residential project, Viking in Waterloo, Sydney.
“I don’t do interiors,” says Fiona. “Well, I try not to because the level of compromise becomes so intense that one loses interest.
“The great thing about Viking is that you can actually showcase the things that you actually want to do and tell a cohesive story.”
Fiona runs her business on the basis of her own taste, curiosity and instinct. If it’s about giving customers what they want, then what they want are ideas and options.
There has been a shift, she says. People don't want mass product any more. They want things that tell stories – about the people who make the products, about the communities they come from.
So, how does she go about styling Viking, sitting as it does in the increasingly cool, but once unthinkable, Waterloo – on the edge of the eastern suburbs and on the way to the airport?
“The things that are interesting me are natural textures and natural tones, punctuated with a bit of graphic, because you need something to lift a visual.”
Does she have a checklist? “Who are the people who would buy this place and what would their lifestyle be like? I then work to things like assuming they travel because they are in an apartment rather than a house.
“Then I try to put in elements that add a texture and a depth. Because that’s the hard thing with display apartments: you almost never get a chance to really get any layering into the process – and you have to insist on that otherwise it looks very spare.”
For Fiona this apartment is an extension of the showroom where she gets a chance to “add in the bits that I can’t add in the showroom”. Like art – because the showroom has almost no walls.
And one last thing: getting a bit of history into the place. If it’s all modern pieces, there’s nothing going on.
Summing up?
Who are you? Where did you come from? Where have you travelled to? What inspires you? “Not just what you want to be perceived to be."
Photography by Kelsie Barley Crown Group crowngroup.com.au Spence and Lyda spenceandlyda.com.auabc
So, how does she go about styling Viking, sitting as it does in the increasingly cool, but once unthinkable, Waterloo – on the edge of the eastern suburbs and on the way to the airport?
“The things that are interesting me are natural textures and natural tones, punctuated with a bit of graphic, because you need something to lift a visual.”
Does she have a checklist? “Who are the people who would buy this place and what would their lifestyle be like? I then work to things like assuming they travel because they are in an apartment rather than a house.
“Then I try to put in elements that add a texture and a depth. Because that’s the hard thing with display apartments: you almost never get a chance to really get any layering into the process – and you have to insist on that otherwise it looks very spare.”
For Fiona this apartment is an extension of the showroom where she gets a chance to “add in the bits that I can’t add in the showroom”. Like art – because the showroom has almost no walls.
And one last thing: getting a bit of history into the place. If it’s all modern pieces, there’s nothing going on.
Summing up?
Who are you? Where did you come from? Where have you travelled to? What inspires you? “Not just what you want to be perceived to be."
Photography by Kelsie Barley Crown Group crowngroup.com.au Spence and Lyda spenceandlyda.com.auabc
1 | Friends & Founders
No surprise it is a Danish/Swedish company behind these stunningly beautiful, and simple, pieces of furniture. A mix between classic and modern, the collection we see here fit the company's aesthetic - pared-back forms and clean silhouettes.
interstudio.com.au
2 | Pianca Modular Elements
These clever little modular elements are simple in form, clean boxes that come in classic colours, but they're also perfect for keeping a space clutter free. Being available in various widths, depths and lengths means whatever the space, they will fit to suit.
misura.com.au
3 | Gaggenau 400 Series
With home entertaining becoming more and more popular, the design of the kitchen is crucial. As they say, appliances should 'provide assistance,' not pose another challenge. This minimalist design is just that - functionally simple and intuitive, and slipping into the space quietly.
gaggenau.com.au
4 | Cirque 900
The Cirque 900 series is made from Solid Surface material, making this one smooth seamless vanity. It even has an integrated towel rail, neatly cut in below the basin.
cibodesign.com.au
5 | Fireclay Sinks by Acquello
The Acquello collection of fireclay sinks represents the finest in ceramic workmanship. Crafted slowly by hand, each sink is unique with its own characteristics, but all have the timeless quality, thanks to the fireclay production.
englishtapware.com.au
5 | Moulded Leather Chair
Leather and metal and finished in wax. Using quality materials and simple design, the Moulded Leather Chair is a winner in our eyes.
weylandts.com.au
abc
No surprise it is a Danish/Swedish company behind these stunningly beautiful, and simple, pieces of furniture. A mix between classic and modern, the collection we see here fit the company's aesthetic - pared-back forms and clean silhouettes.
interstudio.com.au
2 | Pianca Modular Elements
These clever little modular elements are simple in form, clean boxes that come in classic colours, but they're also perfect for keeping a space clutter free. Being available in various widths, depths and lengths means whatever the space, they will fit to suit.
misura.com.au
3 | Gaggenau 400 Series
With home entertaining becoming more and more popular, the design of the kitchen is crucial. As they say, appliances should 'provide assistance,' not pose another challenge. This minimalist design is just that - functionally simple and intuitive, and slipping into the space quietly.
gaggenau.com.au
4 | Cirque 900
The Cirque 900 series is made from Solid Surface material, making this one smooth seamless vanity. It even has an integrated towel rail, neatly cut in below the basin.
cibodesign.com.au
5 | Fireclay Sinks by Acquello
The Acquello collection of fireclay sinks represents the finest in ceramic workmanship. Crafted slowly by hand, each sink is unique with its own characteristics, but all have the timeless quality, thanks to the fireclay production.
englishtapware.com.au
5 | Moulded Leather Chair
Leather and metal and finished in wax. Using quality materials and simple design, the Moulded Leather Chair is a winner in our eyes.
weylandts.com.au
abc
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