May Lust List

Holy moly, doesn't time shoot by! I've had three different non-primary hair colours since my last post, not that that is saying much for me, but wow. It's been hard to find time between chasing two little devils, designing and building a house and finishing off some projects, but hey, technically, according to surveys and governments, 'I don't work', so what am I complaining about?

I thought I'd do a small post on a couple of designs and products that I am totally lusting after right now. I've been on a self-imposed homewares embargo (mainly so I can have some fun once we are in the new house, and also, like I said, no paid work = no spare mula!) so here are a few things that would be added-to-cart asap in any other circumstance… well, maybe with a lotto win, but one can dream. Or I can just live vicariously through any of you lucky people who happen to purchase up after seeing this.


Cutipol Mezzo cutlery set.
{A Cutipol Mezzo cutlery set}


Elise Raspanti Art Series Kip & Co beanbag.
{An Elise Raspanti Art Series Kip & Co beanbag!}


Blue Heaven LED Neon artwork by Electric Confetti.
{Blue Heaven LED Neon artwork (or any of their ice creams) by Electric Confetti}


Sierra weave Armadillo & Co rug in Pumice.
{Sierra weave Armadillo & Co rug in Pumice has been on my list since I felt it at a trade fair a few years ago. Sooo soft and luxurious!}


Sketch Inc for Lucie Kaas Thief Wall Hook by Urbaani
{Love this Sketch Inc for Lucie Kaas Thief Wall Hook by Urbaani, available at Top3. Becky Kemp's Kokeshi Dolls are also fantastic - check out her insta @sketchinc to see some of her amazing work}


The impressively multi-functional Woodieful chair/table/storage/bucket from new start-up Woodieful in Slovenia.
{The impressively multi-functional Woodieful chair/table/storage/bucket from new start-up Woodieful in Slovenia. I love adaptable 'slashie' furniture! It is available through their Kickstarter campaign here, although you better hurry - only 9 days to go. And yes, they do ship to Australia!}


Dita stools from Grazia & Co, seen here in the stunning Port Phillip Bay penthouse apartment by We Are Huntly. Photo by Brooke Holm.
{These Dita stools from Grazia & Co, seen here in the stunning Port Phillip Bay penthouse apartment by We Are Huntly. Photo by Brooke Holm}


A matte black Anthracite finish Smeg fridge.
{A matte black Anthracite finish Smeg fridge, because why not}


What are you lusting after?

xo Romona


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Australian Interior Design Awards 2015 - Residential Award

Just thought I'd share some of the beautiful images of this year's winner of the Residential Design category of the DIA Australian Interior Design Awards 2015. How gorgeous is this reno/extension of Orama house by Smart Design Studio in Sydney?!


Orama house by Smart Design Studio, Sydney. Winner of 2015 Australian #Interior #Design Awards, #Residential Category. Serge Mouille lamp
{This dining room is composed of the perfect balance of bright white, raw concrete and moody black accents. Although these Serge Mouille lamps seem to be everywhere at the moment, you can't deny that they have a massive impact with their insectoid arms reaching into the space as few other lighting forms can}


Orama house by Smart Design Studio, Sydney. Winner of 2015 Australian #Interior #Design Awards, #Residential Category.
{Modern luxe with heritage charm in the bathroom. Marble with burnished brass, shadowed iron and bright white}


Orama house by Smart Design Studio, Sydney. Winner of 2015 Australian #Interior #Design Awards, #Residential Category. Black AJ table lamp.
{In love with this black-edged panel diving wall - the perfect simple, graphic bedhead. Not to mention that black AJ table lamp, always on the top of my bedside/office table lamp wish-list!}


Orama house by Smart Design Studio, Sydney. Winner of 2015 Australian #Interior #Design Awards, #Residential Category.
{Dark and moody ensuite, a perfect retreat}


Orama house by Smart Design Studio, Sydney. Winner of 2015 Australian #Interior #Design Awards, #Residential Category.
{Gilded patina underfoot and overhead pick up warm elements in the artwork, acting as a respite from other cool spaces in the home}


Orama house by Smart Design Studio, Sydney. Winner of 2015 Australian #Interior #Design Awards, #Residential Category. Serge Mouille floor lamp.
{I love the beautiful blank canvas of monochromatic materials and textures, allowing a stunning collection of artwork to stand out, with classic modern furniture and lighting}


Images by
Sharrin Rees.


xo Romona


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Supergraph 2015

Woot woot! I'm off to Melbourne tomorrow for a weekend of art and crafty goodness!

More than just an art fair Supergraph is a three-day fiesta of graphic art, illustration and design at the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton, Melbourne. The fair features leading graphic artists alongside our brightest emerging talent ensuring that there are original and limited edition artworks available for every taste and every budget starting at just $30. And, with creative workshops, artist led masterclasses, family-fun events and an opening night party (that I am so excited to be going to!) Supergraph is where you can be inspired or just enjoy the beautiful creativity of others.


Supergraph Melbourne 2015



I'm particularly looking forward to attending the 'Felt-tastic' masterclass with a gorgeous friend for a well-deserved stitch-and-bitch sesh. Well, maybe it should be glue-and-boo? Smatter-and-chatter? Cut-and-tut? Winking
Also hoping I win one of the ballot-allocated sessions with Face-o-mat!

Kitiya Palaskas Felt-tastic class at Supergraph Melbourne 2015
{Masterclass: Felt-tastic with Kitiya Palaskas}

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Raw geology

We've been seeing agate coasters and book ends for a while, especially if you follow the musings of trendsetter Kelly Wearstler. Raw geology is turning up in more and more product and furniture design - here are a few stunning pieces that I have on my tremendously long lust-list.


Table top-objects featuring re-appropriated industrial waste, more specifically scrap iron found in a Swedish forest, forms the basis for David Taylor's Slag series of candlesticks.
{Table top-objects featuring re-appropriated industrial waste, more specifically scrap iron found in a Swedish forest, forms the basis for David Taylor's Slag series of candlesticks}


Up-Down #Light from Ben-Tovim Design is a contemporary twist on the classic #industrial age height adjustable #pendant light. A range of striking #natural materials contrast with simple #geometric forms to create a light that mixes functionality with a bold #design statement.
{Up-Down Light from Ben-Tovim Design is a contemporary twist on the classic industrial age height adjustable pendant light. A range of striking natural materials contrast with simple geometric forms to create a light that mixes functionality with a bold design statement}


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Chrissy Time

I know Christmas has been all over the shops for months, even though it still seems so far away, but from experience, Christmas time will be here in a flash. So I thought I'd gather some festive cheer to share while there is still time to beat the courier rush season. Be quick though, some of these I've already added to cart and am just about to hit the paypal button!



Beautifully crafted Papier-mâché Christmas #ornaments by Mozi. More #christmas on the blog.
{Beautifully crafted Papier-mâché Christmas ornaments by Mozi. I have a few from last year, so can't wait to get some more to add to the collection}

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Kid-size creations

I've been staring at the bare walls of my two boys' rooms in our current rental just thinking what I could do with the space that would be transportable to any new home we make. With that in mind, here are a few products and inspiring images for kids rooms and play that doesn't have to sacrifice your desire to keep a grown up house. I thought someone else may also be facing this dilemma, so here are a few I've found so far.



Tables Four Two in the classic grey colour set by Sheree B Product Design.
{
Tables Four Two in the classic grey colour set by Sheree B Product Design. She also does other colour schemes, but this was the best. She is incredibly friendly and helpful too!}


Treehorn Designs Oh Buoy small lamp in blue
{
Treehorn Designs Oh Buoy small lamp in blue. Not sure if I would put this in the boys room or steal it for myself}

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Kid-size creations

I've been staring at the bare walls of my two boys' rooms in our current rental just thinking what I could do with the space that would be transportable to any new home we make. With that in mind, here are a few products and inspiring images for kids rooms and play that doesn't have to sacrifice your desire to keep a grown up house. I thought someone else may also be facing this dilemma, so here are a few I've found so far.



Tables Four Two in the classic grey colour set by Sheree B Product Design.
{
Tables Four Two in the classic grey colour set by Sheree B Product Design. She also does other colour schemes, but this was the best. She is incredibly friendly and helpful too!}


Treehorn Designs Oh Buoy small lamp in blue
{
Treehorn Designs Oh Buoy small lamp in blue. Not sure if I would put this in the boys room or steal it for myself}

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Spotlight on Australian Designers | Lab De Stu

Ok, so when trying to find a product or image that summed up Lab De Stu for their VIVID at Decor + Design appearance, I ended up with a whole post on them.
Made up of Melburnians Adam Lynch, Dale Hardiman and André Hnatojko, these guys have kicked arse on the national and international design award scene since 2011. DQ calls them 'Industry Giants', and being in their very early 20's that is saying something!

Although I could have added every image from the website, I'll leave this pretty little teaser for you and let you explore their simple but beautiful website yourself. I'm sure I will have more to add later, once I've seen their wares at D+D this week.


Up Up pendant is a collaboration between Dale Hardiman from Lab De Stu and artist / jewellery designer Emily Green. More #lighting on the RSD blog.
{The Up Up pendant is a collaboration between Dale Hardiman from Lab De Stu and artist / jewellery designer Emily Green. Emily's signature polymer clay beads combine with Dale's lighting design prowess to present a beautiful collection of pendants. Picking this image from the colour range was quite difficult. I changed my mind several times}

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Geek Chic

Whether you are embracing your inner chemist, classic (80s) movie and toy enthusiast or just like a side of education with your fun and pretty, here are a few finds to get your nerd on. Enjoy!


For a little randomness with your relativity, Progetti Rnd Lab Fun Time Random Clock at Top3. More geek chic for the home on the RSD Blog.
{For a little randomness with your relativity, Progetti Rnd Lab Fun Time Random Clock at Top3}

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Re-use Revolution breeds new App

I have put together a few of my faves from the recently launched Couchelo app below to showcase just a few of the large range of items available.

To celebrate the launch of the app, Will and the team are offering a $250 giveaway to 5 lucky people. More information on the giveaway at the end of the post!

Vintage finds on the Couchelo App. The RSD Blog.


So get in there all my lucky, wonderful Melbourne and Sydney readers and snatch them up quick - or if you are feeling generous, feel free to send some of them my way Winking.

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Black and White

Here are just a few pretty monotone goodies that have caught my eye lately. I'm desperately trying to restrain my purchasing until I have at least designed my house, let alone built it! Until then, I'll let you drool with me.


Harbour House by uber-talented Arent&Pyke. How yum is that Christian Liaigre console table?!
{
Harbour House by uber-talented Arent&Pyke. How yum is that Christian Liaigre console table?!}

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Spoil someone… or yourself

Since I seem to have missed the boat on Christmas gifts (every other blog in the world is posting cheap or cool chrissy gift ideas), I thought I'd put up some pretty golden pics of sparkly goodness to treat yourself with for the new year.

Of course, if you can't help but soak up the spirit of giving, these are all available at good homewares stores around australia, to pick up in person. The boat has pretty much sailed on xmas shopping online, unless you want to give it to them next Christmas!

I'll list a few cool spots at the end to pick up a gift (in person) if you are still desperate to find that special something for someone (or yourself!).


Metallic Shimmer. #Gold products and homewares for the new year. More on the RSD Blog.
{ 1. Dot journal kraft, 2. Gold-striped Washi tape, 3. Metallic gold cushion, 4. 2014 Desk Calendar, 5. Uashmama metallic bags, 6. Pano candle, 7. Brass Ruler }



If you have left it until the last minute, you can still pick up a few freakin' fabulous finds, sure to make your last-minute grab go unnoticed. For seriously cool gifts, try the following:

Melbourne - The Super Cool in South Melbourne Markets or Doncaster, Spacecraft in Fitzroy.
Perth - Table Culture in Subiaco (I have my eye on a Jonathan Adler elephant teapot there!), Industriart in Bellevue, Pigeonhole in the city.
Sydney - PAD in Waterloo, Sibella Court's The Society Inc in Paddington.
Brisbane - Black & Spiro in New Farm
Adelaide - Council of Objects and A.Nouk both in Adelaide city

I'm afraid I have spent too much time abroad and not enough in our own wonderful country, so I'll have to explore and get back to you on the other cities, regional centres and towns around Oz. If you know of any hidden gems or must-see stores, please share them with us all in the comments below. Like we need more excuses to go shopping!!

xo Mo



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Oh the Places You'll Go! Giveaway

I love when a local creative finds the courage to get out there and start something new and exciting. I know coming up with ideas is the comparatively easy part, but getting the idea out of your mind and into the real (or online) world is definitely harder. What's the saying? 1% Inspiration, 99% Perspiration. Indeed!

I recently had a chat to designer Adina Levy of The Cumulus Factory about her new range. The Cumulus Factory designs and creates cushions, tote bags and textiles in Sydney, Australia. She has teamed up with Brisbane Photographer Kristina Childs to create a collection of photographic cushions, 'Oh The Places You'll Go'. It struck a chord with me. Firstly, I love almost all creative homewares, I love textiles, I love photography and I love, love, love cushions (Just ask my husband!) Secondly, I had just had my own tropical adventures so the subject matter took me straight back to the crystal waters of Kota Kinabalu. Sigh!

So while I sift and sort through all my photos from the trip away so I can bring you highlights of each location, enjoy the beauty of the 'Oh The Places You'll Go' range and a quick Q&A with Adina.
(P.S. Who doesn't love all this social media for putting you in contact with people you would just never have met in your own little bubble of the world?!)

Also, as a bonus, Adina is graciously giving one lucky reader their choice of the 'Oh The Places You'll Go' photographic images as an A4 print. Check out the end of this post for competition details. For everyone else, head on over to their Kickstarter page to grab yourself a cushion (or four) before the deadline closes. The cushion covers are available for pre-order until 4th December 2013, with delivery in time for Christmas for Australian orders. I still can't decide between the 'Juliet' and the 'On the water' designs - with only a few days left!


'Oh, the Places You'll Go' #cushion series by The #Cumulus Factory. Photo by Kristina Childs. See more on the RSD Blog.

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Nautical dreams

The boys and I did a spontaneous day trip to Lancelin beach on Monday and I felt inspired to share some nautical ultramarine goodies with you. Some I own, some I lust after and some are just plain fun. Enjoy Happy

Modern Pirate and #Nautical #homewares on the RSD Blog
{ 1. Compass cushion, 2. Côte d'Azur Ice bucket, 3. Ahoy Door Mat, 4. Skull & Crossbones Cushion, 5. Hold Tight wall flag, 6. Pier Rope Table lamp, 7. World Map Sticker }

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Melbourne Life Instyle 2013

More than a week late, but since it was my birthday last week (and it’s my blog) I’m cutting myself some slack.

Last week’s Melbourne Life Instyle event was set inside Melbourne’s beautiful Royal Exhibition building. I had been to events here before but never have I seen it so crammed full of designer goodies. I swear they somehow increased it to twice the size than the last time I was there - and I had the blisters and aching calves to prove it!

Unfortunately, my BFF and I were so caught up dragging each other between stands, squealing (yes, big girl squealing!) and jumping on the spot in excitement that I completely forgot to take any onsite pix. No excuse, but, well, we were basically sprinting between stands since they were all so beautiful and we only had a few hours away from kids in which to see it all. Although if you ask our wonderful husbands, we were gone much longer than anticipated! I may have to do another post on some of the best designs because we saw them pre-release and I prefer to let the actual designers launch their products (and not get in any trouble - no-one likes a PO’d artist!)

Here are some of my favourite stands from the show and their pretty pretty wares.


#Cloud coat hangers, Pom Pom #garland and furry #animals by Down to the Woods. Who wouldn’t want this entire setup for a cute little girls room? More products from Melbourne Life Instyle 2013 on the RSD Blog.
{Cloud coat hangers, Pom Pom garland and furry animals by Down to the Woods. Who wouldn’t want this entire setup for a cute little girls room?}


Hello #sign in limited edition #Gold by Down to the Woods. More products from Melbourne Life Instyle 2013 on the RSD Blog.
{Hello sign in limited edition Gold by Down to the Woods for some fun glamour}

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Leo Love

Thought I’d do a quick post for all you fellow Leo’s out there (or just lovers of the big, bad king o’ the jungle).


Captain Laramie #Lion Print by Mulga The Artist, with a poem composed by Mulga, printed on the reverse. Too cool! More #Leo and Lion-inspired products on the RSD Blog.
{Captain Laramie Lion Print by Mulga The Artist, with a poem composed by Mulga, printed on the reverse. Too cool}


Leo teacup by Takeawei. More #Leo and Lion-inspired products on the RSD Blog.
{Leo teacup by Takeawei}

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Melbourne Decoration + Design 2013

I love a good trade event, as I’m sure by now you can tell. Any excuse to wander around aimlessly through furniture, homewares, art, lighting and all things design and I’ll take it. I visited the Melbourne Decoration + Design 2013 last Thursday but it has taken a few days to decide on my favourite pieces and narrow it down for you all. As usual, the co-located Design:Made:Trade and Furnitex VIVID exhibition were the highlights. I won’t waffle on any longer, just let you bask in the glory, beauty and fun of the following images, although you’ll have to forgive the lack of personally taken images - the event was quite strict with sneaky pic taking. Let me know what you think.


Paul Townsin’s Me + Me Too #Lamps, made of moulded #concrete and so, so beautiful in person. Seen at #Melbourne #Decoration + #Design 2013.
{Paul Townsin’s Me + Me Too Lamps, made of moulded concrete and so, so beautiful in person}

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Orange Brights

I’m channeling warm summer thoughts out into the dreary Melbourne Winter sky with today’s post. Below are a collection of some of my favourite orange products in shades ranging from zesty mandarin and persimmon to fiery burnt orange and rust.


For a bright statement piece, The Martini side table in Persimmon from West Elm. It’s also available in White, Silver and Antique Brass. More #Orange on the RSD Blog.
{For a bright statement piece, The Martini side table in Persimmon from West Elm}


When highlighting orange, I couldn’t go past Greg Natale’s stunning Chevron wallpaper in Burnt Mandarin. I know I harp on about his products, but why not when they are just so special. Read on for more beautiful, bright orange delights!

Greg Natale’s stunning Chevron wallpaper in Burnt Mandarin through Porter’s Paints. More #Orange on the RSD Blog.
{Greg Natale’s stunning Chevron wallpaper in Burnt Mandarin through Porter’s Paints}

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Easter treats

Easter has come around super-quick this year. Probably something to do with the eggs being out before the christmas decorations are down at the stores!

I know the actual meaning of Easter is more to do with going to church (which I’ll be honest, isn’t half as appealing since Father Bob is no longer at St. Peter and Paul’s) and dying/painting boiled eggs (on my Russian Orthodox, Polish side). But it is hard to avoid the saturation of bunnies, bright and colourful packaged little chocolates and as my son constantly points out at the front of major grocery chain stores (at child eye-height no less!) giant chocolate dinosaur eggs with enclosed Pixar character toys (wtf?!)

Mozi’s Woodland Rabbit Melamine plate | More Easter treats on the RSD Blog.
{Mozi’s Woodland Rabbit Melamine plate. Cute and whimsical matching cups, apron and bunting available too!}

Giving in to the ‘spirit’ of the season, here are few of my top finds to get your home into the spirit too.

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Aqua vital!

This one could be a big one! My all time favourite colour, AQUA BABY!!! And not to forget her chic older sister, Teal. Or her rich cousin, Turquoise! It is no surprise that these colours have made it three times out of the last ten Pantone Colours of the Year: 2010’s Turquoise, 2005’s Blue Turquoise and 2003’s Aqua Sky). They also work great with this year’s colour, Emerald. These blue-green hues are reminiscent of warm, tropical beaches and cool, refreshing surf. Of bright, flashing jewels and rich, cascading gemstones. My engagement ring is Aquamarine, so I guess I’m a little biased Happy

As usual some of these are around my house already and others I am just abso coveting and dropping hints to hubby and family (this is also a good way to see if they read the blog!)

Baby Rhino, aqua resin by Fenton & Fenton - it’s taking me back to a bit of bebop and rocksteady TMNT days! | More #aqua #teal & #turquoise on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Baby Rhino, aqua resin by Fenton & Fenton - it’s taking me back to a bit of bebop and rocksteady TMNT days}

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Royal Blue Relief

In honour of the wonderful cool change that Melbourne has had, a welcome relief from the humid heat of the last few weeks, I thought I’d go blue. Since the heat has kept me out of the office (as you may know its in a corner of the laundry/sun room aka sweat-box sauna room), and since this is my favourite colour range, I’m going to really pack in the pics, products and pinspiration for this one!

Abigail Ahern enjoying her cosy outdoor living space. More #blue goodness on the RSD Blog.
{Abigail Ahern enjoying her cosy outdoor living space. Love that bold pendant and those chairs - not sure I could leave them outside though!}

Blues range from soft and calming, to bold electric hues. They can be on the cool or warm side of the scale and really be made to suit any personality or mood. Since the range is so vast, for this post I’m going to stick to the sapphire and navy shades (teal deserves its own, don’t you think). Some of these are in my personal collection and some are just on the wish list.

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Sydney Decoration + Design 2013 - Part 1

Aside from cancelled and delayed mucking about with flights, no names mentioned (Crapstar!), I had a whirlwind trip to and around Sydney, catching up with great friends and popping into Decoration+Design. The highlight for me was the seminars by Abigail Ahern and Greg Natale, but I have so many images of theirs to share and they are way too hard to choose from, so I’m saving this until Part 2 and may even require a Part 3! Sorry guys.

Popper pendant lights, Designed by Andre Hnatojko. See More #Decoration and #Design on the RSD Blog. www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Popper pendant lights, Designed by Andre Hnatojko}


Unfortunately, I felt like I had seen a lot of the products on display before (the Melbourne D+D 2012 wasn’t actually that long ago), but there were still a few notable pieces to be found. Yellow and bright neons featured heavily again this show. The Popper pendant lights by Andre Hnatojko below were even better in person than the many images I had pinned before.

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Australiana

In honour of Australia Day coming up on the 26th January, I thought I’d round up a few of my favourite Australiana products out in the design world at the moment, as well as those classic pieces that gently state where they still call home.

Corro Bowl from Design By Them. More Australiana on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Corro Bowl from Design By Them}

Although I am sure I have shown you this before, I still abso love the Corro Bowl from Sydney-based design collective, Design By Them. Distinctly Australian, it is formed from polished corrugated stainless steel, synonymous with both rural and contemporary Australian architectural vernacular. There aren’t many of their products that I don’t lust after.

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Industriart

I had hinted at this post a looong while back while soaking up the Australiana for Aussie Day. Forgive my tardiness, but I really wanted to get the best of the million Instagram pics I took at this wonderland of vintage and eclectic treasures. Industriart is the brainchild of the amazing Roni DiCandilo (and I’m sure husband Nick gets a word in to). This hidden gem (actually, it’s more like an epic, Aladdin’s cave of gems) is tucked away in the industrial maze of Bellevue, Perth.

“The idea started initially as an outlet for the many and varied things that my husband and I have collected over many years. However, for two hoarders, it is difficult to part with all your treasures at once, so the concept then became a shop of 'Pure Indulgence' selling only things that we like - retro, vintage, new, serious and not-so serious.”


Make sure you get on over and check out the wonders (and bargains!) ASAP. I have my eye on more than a few of the furniture items and eclectic baubles in the front room and that cool secret back area. I can’t wait for the next Perth trip to do some real damage!



Glass treasures. Some of these are now in my personal collection | More #vintage and #industrial treasures at Industriart on the RSD Blog. www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Vintage glass treasures. Some of these are now in my personal collection}


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The Fine Design Market


I had intended to share this with you right after getting home from it, however the week just sped past. So, it’s a little late, but here we go.

On Sunday (13 Jan) I had a pleasant (but pricey) surprise. A wealth of local design talents with plentiful, purchasable pretties, of which I did readily partake. The Fine Design Market, held every second Sunday of the month, was right there in my own backyard (almost), and I only just discovered it. A suggestion from a friend separated only by a day from seeing a large sign on the side of the road.

The Fine Design Market. More on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/


A venture by the Manningham City Council at the new MC² (Manningham City Square) in Doncaster, in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, aims to showcase new independent design and arts featuring Australian made and designed products. Their mission is "to support both emerging and established designers and artists by providing a platform to showcase their quality work and help them to connect with their audience". Good on them and lucky us!

The new Municipal Building hosts the market stalls on its high, monumental back parade. I was surprised to see such stunning local talent (I know, very bad of me to assume that it would be a disappointment).

I’ll highlight a few of my favourites below (so good I purchased them), and you will have to go along to get a look at the other goodies yourself. Yes, mainly because I was so giddy with retail therapy while I was there that I forgot to take any pictures.

Hello Felton at the Fine Design Market. More on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Hello Felton are a graphic design company with quirky and colourful cards, prints and paper artwork. I love the nice little touch of vintage recipes on the back of their business postcards}

Colourful handmade bowls at Fine Design Market. More on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Hand-made ceramics. Colours to lust over}

Jewellery by Miss Emilie and Serra Studio. More on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Gorgeous hand-made statement necklaces by Serra Studio (left) and Miss Emilie (right)}

Super Cute t-shirts by Fuji at Fine Design Market. More on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Super cute t-shirts for my boys by Fuji kids by Fujinella}


I think I’ll be going back early next time to check out some Jude fashion and Bird Meets Bliss screen-printings. Oooo, and maybe a print from the gorgeous Minka Svarcs too!

Designers at Fine Design Market. More on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/


The next one is on Sunday, 10th February 2013, and I strongly suggest you get along. I was informed that half the designers weren’t in attendance, probably still on holiday-mode like myself, and it should be even bigger, brighter and better next time. Get along - you won’t be disappointed!

xo Romona


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Emerald Delights


Along with pretty much all of the design and blogging world at the moment, I am in love with all the greeny goodness popping up all over the place since Pantone announced Emerald as its colour of the year for 2013. Just for a bit of visual candy, here are a few of my favourite interiors, products and miscellaneous images featuring variations of this striking gemstone hue.

PANTONE 2013 Colour of the Year Mug – Emerald - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/PANTONE Emerald iPhone 5 Case - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Pantone’s limited Edition Mug and iPhone5 cover in Emerald}

Dulux's Empower palette of paint colours - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Dulux’s Empower Palette - Image styled by Bree Leech featuring Dulux Liberty, Bahaman Bliss and Misty Blue}

Florence Broadhurst Peacock Feathers & Shadow Floral in Dusty Turquoise wallpapers from Signature Prints - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Florence Broadhurst Peacock Feathers & Shadow Floral wallpapers from Signature Prints}

Night Bird by Catherine Martin, Bansyu by Akira Isogawa, both at Designer Rugs - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Night Bird by Catherine Martin, Bansyu by Akira Isogawa, both at Designer Rugs}

Emerald vintage Florence Knoll & Charles Eames furniture. Interiors by Doug & Gene Meyer - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Emerald vintage Florence Knoll & Charles Eames furniture. Interiors by Doug & Gene Meyer.}

Jonathan Adler Needlepoint Pillows - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Jonathan Adler Needlepoint pillows}

Husque Bowl Macadamia Nut in Green - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Husque Bowl Macadamia Nut in Green}

South Beach by Greg Natale, Jewel by Dinosaur Designs, both at Designer Rugs - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{South Beach by Greg Natale, Jewel by Dinosaur Designs, both at Designer Rugs}

Bianca Malachite Box by Ralph Lauren Home - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Bianca Malachite Box by Ralph Lauren Home}

Martinique Beverley Hills wallpaper & Catherine Martin Mokum Imperial Pheasant in Emerald - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Martinique Beverley Hills wallpaper; Catherine Martin for Mokum Imperial Pheasant in Emerald}

Emerald accents. Interiors by Charm Home Design - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Emerald accents. Interiors by Charm Home Design}

Interiors by Diamond Baratta - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Interiors by Diamond Baratta. Image via House of Turquoise}

Greg Natale Interiors - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/

{Interiors by Greg Natale, featuring his South Beach rug}

Pont Max Juvenal Aix En Provence Patrick Blanc - See More in Emerald Delights post on the RSD Blog www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Pont Max Juvenal, Aix en Provence, 2008. Patrick Blanc}


Of course I couldn’t resist throwing a green-walled building in there. You can see a few more on my previous post, Vertical Green. I am hoping to do another post on green walls this year, since the last one didn’t even scratch the surface of the beauty that is out there.

These bright emerald visuals make me giddy. Yes, I’ll admit some of them are straying more into teal and turquoise territory, but that is the beauty of perception - maybe your eyes will see a whole different picture. I hope you enjoyed this quick (and a little lazy) post. Until next time.

xo Romona


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Unearthing Treasures

Finding your personal style is a difficult endeavour. 

Inspired by
Carpet Court’s new Love the Look competition (How hard is it to choose between team Darren and team Stacey!), I went rummaging through my boxes of trinkets and collected items from my travels and explorations. You know the ones - the pieces you’ll put up in your one-day house (the one with room to spare - a library, a sitting room, a chic powder room off the entry foyer, maybe even a gift-wrapping room à la Martha Stewart). The piece that caught my eye was right there on my bedroom wall. The exquisite hand-painted Indian wedding ceremony on a government stamped paper that I found in a market in Jaipur, India. 

Indian Artwork on the RSD Blog. See more at www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Indian Government Stamp and painted Wedding Ceremony Artwork, from a market in Jaipur, India}



Another work from the same market is the black and white elephant heads (below right). Until I photographed them for this competition, I had forgotten how much I liked looking at all the scribbly detail in them.

Indian Artwork on the RSD Blog. See more at www.rsdesigns.com.au/blog/
{Indian Government Stamp and painted Elephant head Artwork, from a market in Jaipur, India}


They are totally out of place in my current bedroom. As it stands, it’s a mismatched explosion of objects - and not in a good way (thus the desire to refurb it, stat!) I love mixing vintage with contemporary, but the pieces have to be right and I feel it has to be done with a cautious hand and keen eye.

I had been meaning to reinvent my bedroom into a palace worthy of old Hollywood. Glamourous crystal and blinding chrome. Tufted velvet and mirrored lucite-legged vanities. All look but don’t touch. Now though, I am having to remind myself that yes, although I love the look of these in magazines, could I live there? Especially with two young boys (one who likes to crawl into bed with us after pushing most things off the dresser with his cars, and another that I’m sure will do the same as soon as he is able to get out of the cot).

I’ve decided to go back to basics. Firstly, I have to decide what, if anything, I want to keep from my current room or if there is anything that I already own that I want to introduce into the new room (such as an art work or armchair). I think I will be keeping more than I’d like to (budgetary reasons), but upcycling is under-rated, so I’ll see how I can change the items that I can’t afford to replace, to fit the new style. If you follow me on
Pinterest, you may have noticed that my DIY folder is getting more of a work out lately than usual. With two kids, and without the disposable income that we had before them, I can hardly do the complete Jonathan Adler meets Kelly Wearstler that I’d like to.

Secondly, research images that attract and excite me, and define what it is about that image that gets me going. Is it the whole package, a particular furniture item, the colours - warm or cool, the scale, the layout, the fact that its tidy, what? Then see how it can be applied or worked into the canvas that is my room. Again, Pinterest and
Houzz are wonderful resources for finding inspiration and products. Of course, its always fun flicking through drool-worthy magazines like Belle, Real Living, Sanctuary and Home Beautiful when you can find the time. I embrace my iDevices, but I am not quite ready to part with my monthly deliveries of hard copies just yet, thank you.

Luckily time is on my side. With a bathroom renovation due in October, it may be a few more months before I have the spare coin to put towards the fabrics or wall paper that will make it really worth doing. There’s nothing wrong with taking time to make sure that you really do love that particular pattern you chose, and not just because its on-trend or was used in that house by that guy in that magazine, you know the one! For now, I am just trying to remind myself to keep the basics somewhat neutral, so I can really go nuts on the replaceable items like headboard fabric or bedding or window dressing.

OK, so I think I have successfully gone completely off topic. Maybe one day I’ll be able to do it with the charm and imperceptible manner of Ross Noble or Billy Connolly. Until then, I will just say that I will revisit the idea of finding hidden treasures in your home when inspiration strikes. I’m hoping to also bring you a little introduction to our planned bathroom reno coming up - I look forward to some peer feedback if you feel like it. Ciao for now.

xo Romona

P.S. (again) Sorry that comments aren’t allowed at the moment. I really want to hear any feedback you have but iWeb is disagreeing with me and I need to find a new program. Excuses, excuses!
Please feel free to email/tweet/FB post me - would love to hear from you!
UPDATE: Hopefully comments should work now….
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