According to Sara Donaldson of Australian fashion and beauty blog Harper & Harley, fashion trends are just as significant on the runway as they are in styling the home and living spaces. We take a look at her chic styling collaboration with King Living.

“From personal styling to interior styling, keep to three main colour palettes and accent with metallic and neutrals where needed,” says Sara.

In her recent collaboration with King Living’s The Room Project, Sara stuck to her three colour rule and presented her signature black, white and grey colour palette in her living room setting using the new King Boulevard sofa.

“With velvet currently a big trend in both the fashion and lifestyle arena, I wanted to hero this fabric as one example of fashion trends translating to home styling.” Using The Rockefeller Mineral fabric to create an ‘undone luxe’ designer look, this beautiful fabric illuminates the room by picking up light and creating a homely atmosphere.

To add finishing touches to the living space, Sara suggests plants are a must have interior styling accessory – and lots of them – “plants bring warmth and life to a room, making a big difference to the space.”

Click here to see more of the King Boulevard sofa.

PENDANT LIGHT  /  PRINT  /  THROW  /  TASK LIGHT  /  NOTEBOOK SET  /  HANDBAG
FILING CABINET  /  BOWL  /  POT  /  ROUND CUSHION  /  SOFA  /  CUSHION

With Spring right around the corner, so comes another issue of Adore! This one is our Sweet Dreams edition packed with a whole heap of bedroom inspiration. Here’s a little teaser of what’s inside...

Photography: Martina Gemmola  /  Styling + Interior: Michelle Hart, Bask Interiors

Looking for bedroom inspiration? We’ve got you covered – including nine bed styles you’ll adore, tips and products for creating an open wardrobe, and one bedroom styled three ways – thanks to stylist and interior designer Michelle Hart. Plus, we showcase three swoon-worthy bedrooms – from a dreamy pastel retreat (pictured above) and a cosy sanctuary, to an exotic boho paradise.

Photography: Hannah Blackmore  /  Styling: Nicole Rosenberg, Little Liberty

You might recognise this dining room from our previous Devour edition. Well we loved it so much, we decided to showcase the entire home – it’s a contemporary abode that utilises moody blues in almost every space to create a cosy, warming atmosphere. We can’t get enough of designer Nicole Rosenberg of Little Liberty, lately, and this latest project of hers is no exception.

Photography: Hannah Blackmore  /  Styling: Nicole Rosenberg, Little Liberty

Pictured below is the Scandi-licious home belonging to Perth-based Sharon Sunderland and her family. By combining modern Australian and Scandinavian styles, she’s created a family-friendly home with a relaxed ambience of clean whites, neutral tones and lush textiles. I have to say, this home is a standout in this issue!

This image and two images below:  Photography: Tarina Lyell  /  Interior: Sharon Sunderland

Another fab home in this issue is this recently renovated Paddington townhouse by The Designory (which features on our front cover). This airy, light and open home features a predominantly neutral colour palette with pops of colour scattered throughout.

This image and image below: Photography: Hannah Blackmore  /  Styling: Claudia Stephenson  /  Interior: The Designory

The Sweet Dreams edition is available to purchase now in our online shop (click here) or available in newsagents nationwide from September 1. We also have a number of boutique retail stores stocking Adore – click here to view the list.

CARD  /  T-SHIRT  /  AFTERSHAVE BALM  /  SHAVER  /  SPEAKER  /  WATCH  /  CHAIR
GROOMING KIT  /  MANICURE SET  /  CUSHION  /  CHOCOLATE  /  BAG  /  HEADPHONES

There are perks to having a mother who is an interior designer – just ask Serena, daughter of Bask Interior’s Michelle Hart.

Photography: Martina Gemmola  /  Styling + Interior: Michelle Hart, Bask Interiors  /  Words: Jacqui Greig

With a brief to create an interesting bedroom for a teenage girl, Michelle surprised Serena with the makeover when she returned from a school trip.

The hero of the room is the stunning wallpaper, which is from the Sarah Ellison ‘Light of Heart’ collection, purchased from Emily Ziz Style Studio. Surprisingly it doesn’t limit the style of the room – instead becoming a great backdrop for any colour.

Another statement is the Lady Peacock bedhead from The Family Love Tree: Chosen for its pattern, texture and versatility, it was originally used in Serena’s bright, boho-themed bedroom when she was younger. The room has been personalised with Serena’s favourite music and artist posters, and artworks adorning her cupboard doors. Michelle included “things she likes such as plants, crystals, candles and her own handmade ceramic pieces on display.”

OTHER SOURCES

Artwork includes ‘Marie’ a limited-edition print by US artist Gina Julian (framed by Forman Picture Framing), and the Andy Warhol print ‘All Is Pretty’; “Andy Warhol happens to be one of her favourite artists right now. She has seen the recent Warhol and Ai Weiwei exhibition five times!”

 ‘Lily’ ladder and ‘Luna’ round side table from Mubu Home, ‘Bella Vista’ string lighting from Norsu Interiors, bed linen from Abode Living, ‘Harlequin’ plant stand from Ivy Muse, oak shelf with leather strap from Interior Motives, grey felt pinboard from Al & Em, knit throw from Tribe & Co.

BEDHEAD  /  MUG  /  SIDE TABLE  /  BLUE CUSHION  /  PINK CUSHION  /  PRINT

Want to see this bedroom in print? Purchase our Sweet Dreams edition available now online
(click here), through select boutique retail stores (click here) or in newsagents September 1!

Our new Sweet Dreams edition (Spring 2016 issue) is out in newsagents today! I’m thrilled with how this issue turned out. I really do mean it when I say each issue just keeps getting better and better. To make it easier for you to locate your nearest newsagent, you can download this list as an excel document, by clicking here. I’ve listed it in alphabetical order according to suburb, to help you easily locate your nearest newsagents. Happy reading everyone, I sincerely hope you’ll enjoy this issue.

OXFORD 3 seater sofa (available in October) and MYLES buffet and coffee table

OZ Design Furniture have launched their new Spring/Summer 2016 collection, and it’s a real stunner! Featuring contemporary pieces that translate across a broad range of styles, you’re bound to find something to adore.

MYLES dining table with JARVIS dining chairs and MYLES buffet

LEONA 3 seater sofa and BAGRU coffee/side tables

BRODY 3 seater sofa + corner chaise

When sourcing products to feature in Adore Home Magazine, OZ Design Furniture are continuously my go-to furniture retailer for products that are on-trend and a right fit for our demographic. So many of the pieces of furniture can adapt to a variety of styles, whether it’s contemporary Australian, Scandinavian-inspired, laid-back coastal, or global/eclectic. I wanted to share with you today, a glimpse of some of the new styles available now and in the coming couple of months.

So what are my personal favourites? Well I can’t go past the Charlie and Brody styles of sofas, they’re both classic in style – with clean lines and both are easy to update as styles/trends come and go.

Be sure to check out OZ Design Furniture’s website for more great styles by clicking here.

CHARLIE 3 seater sofa (due in October) and SCALLOP coffee table

MONTY dining table with DIMA chair

THROW  /  PRINT  /  DIFFUSER  /  ROUND CUSHION  /  VASE 
TRAY  /  WARDROBE  /  CUSHION  /  RUG  /  BED  /  LAMP

Nothing defines luxury more than the finest quality cashmere and lucky for us, we now have our own Australian label that goes by the quirky moniker, Oon. 

Photography and styling: The Design Villa  /  Words: Pip Miller

From its home base in Sydney, Oon which means ‘wool’ in Nepali, combines the age old tradition of an artisan made textile with the fashionable edge of contemporary garments and homewares. That is right, cashmere is not confined to wardrobes of the rich and famous, but is now an accessible bit of luxe to wear or enjoy in the home, everyday. Check out their range of wool rugs, vases, baskets and ottomans in earthy tones with soft pastels in ombre tones – greys, pinks, ivories and then there are delicious pops of brighter hues – lemon, sky, rose and caramel tones in a host of geometric shapes.

If you ever needed another reason to introduce cashmere into your life and home, Oon has it well and truly covered with a covetable range in which each piece is crafted individually in looms and low tech machines to produce hand spun yarn. The company take protection of the environment, sustainability and fair trade very seriously – everything is made with natural, renewable materials with natural sunlight and non-toxic dyes.

When it comes to wearable cashmere, the Oon essential and basic ranges offer trans-seasonal, layering pieces that make the perfect travelling companion – soft and light, warm and trans seasonal and believe it or not, gets better with age.

What we are really excited about is the homewares – Oon’s delightful organic shapes are reminiscent of its creator’s formative years, growing up in the traditional, whimsical and colourful city of Kathmandu.

Click here to shop Oon’s range.

This image and image below: Photography: Hannah Blackmore  /  Styling: Claudia Stephenson  /  Interior: The Designory

Finding the right armchair can be tricky, so we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite designs in a whole range of styles.

1 ELEGANT LUXE

For me, an elegant chair choice is determined by both its shape, and texture. Velvet is always my go-to material for a little bit of modern day luxury. My all-time favourite chair has to be the Croisette velvet armchair from Bastille and Sons (pictured in the two images above), in this luscious petrol blue colour. In fact, I love it so much I’ve pre-ordered one for my own living room! It comes in so many great colours and also a cotton version with a white frame, for a more casual look. I love this chair so much I’ve also included it in pink further down.

Another elegant option is this Jonathan Adler Maxime lounge chair (pictured left) from Coco Republic. The sumptuous shearling upholstery teamed with its sleek brass frame makes it a fab choice for a glamorous boudoir or living room.

1 KEIRA CHAIR  /  2 GOLDFINGER CHAIR  /  3 BABE ARMCHAIR

2 LEATHER

There is something unmistakably sophisticated about leather. Normally though it’s not a material I would choose for my home – perhaps it’s a little too much on the masculine side of things. However these contemporary chairs have totally changed my mind. In particular, I’m loving The Stanley armchair (pictured directly above and right) from Urban Couture.

Designed with a black steel metal frame and Italian tan leather, Urban Couture have given this chair an industrial yet modern twist. And the back of it – super sexy, am I right?! Priced at $2495 it is a little pricey, although to be fair, most leather armchairs are because of the material. Consider this an investment piece – a chair that will last the test of time.

1 HUG LEATHER LOUNGE CHAIR  /  2 DRIES LEATHER SLING CHAIR  /  3 SMITH TAN LEATHER AMRCHAIR

3 PINK & GOLD

When it comes to the colour blush pink, you really can’t go wrong. Combine it with golden brass accents, and well, it’s fair to say that I go completely weak at the knees. There seems to be an abundance of pink and gold armchairs at the moment, and with good reason – it’s a feminine look that looks equally good in a bedroom or living room.

The Roar + Rabbit Swivel chair in dusty pink, (pictured above) from West Elm is currently on the top of my favourites list, thanks to its pleating, super soft velvet and swiveling gold legs. I could imagine this chair in a super sweet nursery too. Oh the possibilities are endless with this one.

1 CROISETTE VELVET ARMCHAIR  /  2 SANCTUARY ARMCHAIR  /  3 METAL FRAME UPHOLSTERED CHAIR

4 SCANDI

There’s no denying that Scandinavian-style’s popularity is currently at an all time high in Australia, thanks to its enduring minimal clean lines, and soft monochromatic colour palette. I personally love to see this style infused with pops of pastel colours to give it some life. For this reason I’ve thrown in some lovely pastel coloured armchairs below, all of which have distinct Scandi style. Harpers Project’s Scandinavian armchair pictured above comes in light grey or white and is currently on sale – bonus!

The Tamarama armchair from Urban Couture, pictured left, is another great choice for Scandi homes. I can definitely see this contemporary style of chair working in a coastal style home too. Its removable slip cover also means you can wash it and keep the white cover looking nice and clean.

1 GEORGES ARMCHAIR  /  2 STUDIO ARMCHAIR  /  3 MANGO LOUNGE CHAIR

Cantilever Interiors are best known for their beautiful custom-made kitchens and joinery for some of Australia’s most respected architects and developers. Now, Cantilever are proud to introduce their first range of cabinetry systems –  the flexible Wanda Shelving System.

Photography: Mike Baker  /  Styling: Heather Nette King  /  Words: Loni Parker

The Wanda Shelving Systems is a series of adaptable, multipurpose designs that accommodate even the trickiest storage needs that modern life presents. Melbourne-based Cantilever Interiors is renowned for its design and manufacture of beautiful, functional and sustainable kitchens and cabinetry and Wanda is the latest inspiring example. Manufactured in Cantilever’s Brunswick workshop from high-quality sustainable materials sourced within Australia, the Wanda Shelving Systems are flexible in configuration, colour and use.

Inspired by playful designs of mid-century modern, Wanda’s timeless form and contemporary palette is perfect for all sorts of applications – from kid’s rooms to home offices. They are available in three product styles – Wanda Library, Studio and Utility (pictured opposite). Their unique configurations suit various storage requirements.

The variety of colours for the shelf and backing board means each product style is suited to a variety of environments, aesthetics and functions.

Want to know more about Wanda and the various configurations available? Shop the range, and get all of the pricing details by clicking here.

THROW  /  PRINT  /  MINT CUSHION  /  PENDANT LIGHT  /  LAMP  /  DEDO RACK
MIRROR  /  RUG  /  ARMCHAIR  /  SIDEBOARD  /  CUSHION  /  PAPER BAG

Kristin’s kitchen photography: Hannah Blackmore  /  Styling: Claudia Stephenson

Subway tiles are one of those enduring classics – whether they’re laid in a traditional brick-style or herringbone pattern, there’s no denying their beauty.

I love a good herringbone pattern, pair it with a long and lean subway tile, and black grout, and you’ve got instant chic. A perfect example of this, is fashion stylist Kristin Rawson’s neutral kitchen (as featured in Adore Home’s Annual edition). After living in the home for a few years, Kristin decided to make a few changes to her kitchen including a new tiled splashback, natural wooden floating shelves and copper pedant lights from Dunlin. The combination of all three give this space a luxe, yet personalised feel– the open shelving allows Kristin to display the things she loves, along with giving easy access to the things she uses on a regular basis.

“The water candle by Tom Dixon smells so wonderful. I light it every evening when making dinner. When using all the items on the shelf I restyle them around just for fun,” comments Kristin.

If you prefer your subway tile laid in a brick-style pattern, there’s certainly no shortage of inspiration out there. Studio McGee in the U.S are also big fans – you’ll find subway tiles in a number of their design projects including this stunning modern mountain home pictured below (you simply must check out the full home tour by clicking here - it is amazing)!

Studio McGee kitchen Photography: Travis J Photography

In the new Sweet Dreams edition of Adore, we took a tour of Sharon Sunderland’s Perth family abode (pictured below), with a distinct Australian/Scandi style. Subway tiles laid in a brick pattern with the addition of black grout create a classic yet graphic look in her dreamy kitchen. It also provides the perfect backdrop for all of her designer kitchen accessories.

Sharon Sunderland's kitchen Photography and styling: Tarina Lyell

I love what Amber Lewis (of Amber Interiors) has done with these black subway tiles – laying them vertically and in super sexy black . It’s masculine, sophisticated and a bit more daring than laying them horizontally. It works in a space like this where you can tile all the way up to the ceiling.

Amber Interiors' images Photography: Tessa Neustadt

Another interior by Amber Interiors, (pictured below) this time laying long black tiles horizontally and stacked directly above each other. I think if it were just white it might have looked a bit boring in this configuration, but in black, it’s genius.

With summer right around the corner, we’re longing for balmy nights spent with family and friends, burnt sausages straight off the BBQ and holidays by the sea. Our go to accessory for this summer? A colourful Basil Bangs beach umbrella of course!

I have to say, the new summer collection from Basil Bangs is absolutely sensational. It’s hard to pick favourite designs, but this Botanica print (above) designed by Louise Jones for Basil Bangs is super lush. There’s both a rain and beach umbrella available in this design, along with a cushion and love rug. Can I please have one of each?! The new campaign images seriously make me want to take a mini vacation, with the weather warming up quickly, I think it might be the perfect time to take one of these new beach umbrellas for a test drive. Kick-start your summer a little early this year, and get shopping by clicking here.

1 MIRAGE  /  2 DAPPLE  /  3 CAMILLA

Let me introduce you to Urban Road’s newest Spring/Summer 2016 collection titled ‘Element’. From tropical, to abstract, to striking photography – there’s an abundance of exciting themes that look beautiful in any home.

Urban Road were inspired by the urban landscape, as seen in this moodboard of theirs pictured above. I love the muted tones, cityscapes and architectural detailed close-ups that feature throughout the new Element collection. It’s very diverse overall, however there are consistent colour palettes that make it easy to mix and match and come up with a gallery wall that feels effortless and collected over time.

1 GASTON  /  2 DOWNTOWN ON SUNDAY  /  3 HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

Urban Road’s tropical moodboard pictured above served as the inspiration for many of this new season’s artworks. I’ve selected my top three finds (further below) with a distinct coastal feel. Think swaying palm trees, deep emerald ocean waters and surreal abstracts that evoke the feel and colours of the sea. Be prepared to be transported to paradise – even if it is just on your walls! 

The photographic prints are exceptionally good, and reasonably priced. I love that you have the choice of having your artwork either framed as a print, or box framed around a stretched canvas.

1 BEYOND  /  2 THE JUNCTION  /  3 IN THE DEEP

PLANT HANGER  /  PENDANT LIGHT  /  PRINT  /  THROW  /  OTTOMAN
CARD  /  COOKIE JAR  /  BED  /  CHAIR  /  BASKET  /  LIGHT  /  CUSHION

There is just something about the iconic hanging chair that evokes instant relaxation. And it was love of the classic chair design that prompted Leanne Dunnings to start Byron Bay Hanging Chairs in 2014.

Photography: + Styling: Villa Styling  /  Words: Jacqui Greig

With her personal style a study in casual elegance, Leanne wants the furniture in her home to tell a story; “Hanging chairs have a feel-good nostalgia to them that I just love,” she explains. “I think we all need to slow down and enjoy the little things in life. A swing in a hanging chair can make you feel like a kid again for just a few seconds.”

Working with a family of skilled weavers in Java, Indonesia, Leanne designs a collection of chairs made from hand-foraged, sustainable rattan that results in completely unique pieces - no two are exactly alike, and some pieces take up to five days to make. 

This image courtesy of Byron Beach Abodes  /  Photography: Jessie & Jones

“Rattan furniture can add a genuine warmth to your home and, if cherished and looked after, can last a life time,” says Leanne. Although flexible and easy to bend, rattan is strong enough to be used structurally. Plus, it is extremely environmentally friendly; it doesn’t require fertilizers or pesticides, and re-grows at such a fast rate that it encourages preservation of forests and their wildlife.

The hanging chair is a versatile piece of furniture that works well in many situations, from an accent chair in the living room, to a reading nook in a playroom, or an escape on an undercover verandah.

“They are almost like a piece of art in your home. I have a few anchor points in my home and depending on the season and how I'm feeling I do move them around through the house,” says Leanne.  

“Rattan furniture can add a genuine warmth to your home and, if cherished and looked after, can last a life time.”

This image courtesy of Alanna Smit Designs

Byron Bay Hanging Chairs has grown to include handpicked products that Leanne has fallen in love with, including bar carts, chairs, loungers and day beds. In fact, many of the designs sell on preorder before they arrive.

And while you’re waiting for a favourite design to be re-stocked, you’ll be delighted to see some exciting new releases, including two new days beds, and a gorgeous baby bassinet – a guaranteed heirloom piece. Shop the collection by clicking here.

A mattress without a bedhead is a bit like an outfit with no shoes, sure it works in certain casual situations, but if you’re looking to add some sophistication to your bedroom’s personality a bedhead is a must. Here are our top five styles.

Words Loni Parker

1 BUTTON-UP

Button up (ahem), I mean buckle up friends. This is by far the most popular type of bed head dominating the market at the moment, the good ol’ button upholstered bedhead. And for good reason. Its classic enduring style means it’s not going to date quickly. It’s a tried and true formula, and let’s not muck up our formulas. Pictured directly above is Heatherly Design Bedheads’ Alessio in aged leather. Sexy much? You can also choose from a whole range of other fabrics if leather doesn’t tickle your fancy. And at the very top of our blog post, another Heatherly Design Bedheads design – the very understated Harper. Technically there are no buttons, instead individual stitching detail which creates the same look.

Mexsii turned to various creative muses to create a new collection of bedheads. This one inspired by The Real Estate Stylists founders (sister team Sara and Amy Chamberlain), combines a delicate blend of feminine touches with moody masculine style. Click here to shop this Classic Contemporary bedhead.

2 QUIETLY QUILTED

Quilted cushions have catapulted into popularity lately, and it’s nice to see that bedheads are following suit. Nathan + Jac are offering the Freya (pictured above). Its delicate smoke grey colouring makes it ideal for the modern daydreamer. It’s a little bit contemporary, a little bit Scandi, and no doubt will appease the fussiest of decorators. Shop Freya by clicking here.

3 STRAPPING GOOD

To strap or not to strap, that is the question Sheakespeare once asked. Okay okay, no he didn’t. But should one add straps to a bedhead? I think yes - why not! So who’s doing this strapping-good look well? I love Barnaby Lane’s latest collaboration with Heatherly Design Bedheads (pictured above). They’ve aptly named this dapper looking fellow Frederik, because just like Denmark’s Prince Frederik, it’s winning over Aussie ladies’ hearts (sorry I couldn’t help it, queue serious cringing at my bad dad joke). Made of light grey felt wool, and natural leather straps, this beauty is priced from $1250. Not bad really – I feel like this is in the mid-range price category when it comes to bedheads. Shop Frederik by clicking here.

Another fine specimen boasting straps, is the handsome Piper, (above) from Heatherly Design Bedheads. Pictured in the trench leather fabric option, the overall look is very sophisticated and priced at $1620 (for a queen size in this fabric option). Perfect for those die-hard Scandi-lovers out there. Don’t love leather? No problemo. You can choose from lots of other fabric options. Click here to shop Piper.

4 RETRO CANE

Most of their bedheads are available in a kaleidoscope of colours – making it an absolute breeze to inject some bubbly brights into your bedroom.

There’s nothing nana-ish or daggy about these cane bedheads from The Family Love Tree. In fact they’ve lovingly brought back a retro look to the bedroom that can translate well under a whole range of styles – not just coastal.

Our favourite styles from their range include the King Sunrise (pictured above in black), Petal (pictured in natural rattan opposite), and Palm Springs (pictured below). All of which are priced under $500.

Most of their bedheads are available in a kaleidoscope of colours – making it an absolute breeze to inject some bubbly brights into your bedroom. Click here to shop their range.

5 VELVETY PLUSH

Last but certainly not least, this luxe panel upholstered style has me smitten. And then to go and team it with velvet, well that’s just genius right there. The look is elegant, yet so comfortable, thanks to the fabric choice. Incy Interiors Sybilla bedhead (pictured above) is currently on sale - you’ll pick up a king size bedhead for just $699 (down from $999). Folks, this is a fabulous price for such a dreamy bedhead. Don’t fancy pink (how dare you, lol!)? You’ll also find it in a deep navy and teal. Shop this bedhead by clicking here.

Who else is doing this style? Heatherly Design Bedheads have also got a similar style (pictured right and below). Long and lean, the Lincoln bedhead can be customised to sit wider than your actual bed, so you can sit your bedsides in front of it for the ultimate luxurious look, straight out of a 5-star boutique hotel. Shop Lincoln by clicking here.

Needing an escape on this beautiful Friday? Let me introduce you to Casa Cook, an ultra cool resort that blends urban and beach effortlessly.

Words Loni Parker

So lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of people reposting images from luxury resort – Casa Cook, Rhodes. First off, I was like where’s Rhodes? I had no clue, so I googled it and turns out its the name of both a city and an island in Greece. Obviously I should have taken geography in school.

Next I had to check out Casa Cook’s website for a little looky, and oh my goodness, this place is insane! It’s pared-back luxury at its finest. A little bit boho, a little bit coastal, with a good dose of contemporary thrown into the mix – and voila – it’s a recipe for success. Some of the rooms even have private verandas complete with sunbeds adjoining the resort’s pool so essentially you can swim up to your room (see picture below). Umm, where do I book in? Sign me up!

This wording on their website perfectly sums it up: Created for trend-conscious travellers, the 90-room adults-only Casa Cook Rhodes has an atmosphere that’s a blend of urban and beach, the style and attitude is its very own.

There’s not a lot of travel destinations that get me as excited as Palm Springs (I know, I know, enough already about Palm Springs my friends say), but let me tell you this, Rhodes has me seriously tempted. The desert-like landscape is quite similar (as you can see above) but with the added bonus of being by the sea. You can check out more of this amazing resort by clicking here.

Simplicity, form and function are the driving force behind Scandinavian-influenced MuBu Home.

Words Jacqui Greig

Although based in Melbourne, MuBu Home has multicultural roots, with Michael having grown up in the Blue Mountain’s, before living in Copenhagen and then Vietnam, and Saskia a French-German who has been living overseas since the age of 21.

The concept of MuBu came about while the couple was living in Vietnam. “Michael made all the furniture for our daughter’s nursery, as we could not afford the quality we were after and that's how it all started,” explains Saskia. “Michael is obsessed with quality. To him, if something is not strong and durable enough, then there is absolutely no need to buy it.”

Relocating to Australia, the couple pursued the MuBu dream and launched their online store in late 2015, followed by a showroom space in their warehouse in Cheltenham in early 2016. In August, they opened their first retail space in Elsternwick.

“We select quality pieces of furniture and homewares from Scandinavian designers or simply influenced by the principles of Scandinavian design. We love furniture that is strong, simple, honest, timeless, functional and fairly priced,” says Saskia.

Michael is the creative force behind the business. Having lived in Denmark for six years he fell in love with all things Scandinavian. A chef by trade, cuisine and aesthetics are his passion. “Michael’s cooking and plating resemble artworks, and his creativity and discipline show in everything he does,” explains Saskia. What drew Saskia to the Scandinavian aesthetic are the values and principles behind Scandinavian design - the simplicity, the attention to functionality and quality. “I love all things thoughtfully and purposefully designed; spaces and environments that allow you to think and reflect, away from the hustle and bustle of cities and technology driven days and I find that in Scandinavian interiors,” she says.

MuBu Home imports products of Danish designers (manufactured in Vietnam), and also make their own range of furniture in Melbourne. “We love combining both – we handpick pieces we love from selected manufacturers and add our own pieces to our collection. Having lived in Vietnam means we are working directly with manufacturers that we know and this is a great asset as we can ensure affordability for the end customer.”

The MuBu aesthetic leans toward light timbers, clean lines, natural textures and soft colour tones. “We are working on a few new designs and some will feature leather, cork, plywood, metal and gorgeous fabrics including velvet, soft suede and worn leather,” says Saskia.  

And while they are aware of the current trends, Saskia and Michael believe strongly that with constant change, furniture that resists the test of time and trends keeps them grounded. The MuBu focus is on furniture that makes you feel good and at home. Shop Mubu Home’s range by clicking here.