Antique and reproduction tiles sourced / designed by Sonya Marish of Jatana Interiors, who runs her business from Federal on the NSW North Coast.  Photo – Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Sonya’s little showroom on her property in Federal.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Jatana Interiors tiles in situ in Sonya’s little showroom on her property in Federal.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Sonya Marish of Jatana Interiors, in her showroom. Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

WELL sadly, our week in the North Coast of NSW has come to and end… that went quick!  It has been so lovely spending this week showcasing some of the incredible creative people and places from this beautiful region… thanks so much for coming along for the ride!  (And don’t worry we did shoot a few more homes in these parts which will pop up in the coming weeks…!).

I have to say, one of the things I kept noticing about the people we met in Byron Bay and the surrounding areas was an incredible warmth and generosity of spirit.  We were SO well looked after by everyone we came across, we were treated to a number of beautiful meals and the odd generous gift (!!), and given so many recommendations which were invaluable in creating the content we have run this week.  Thankyou Byron!  One of the lovely locals who really went above and beyond in her efforts to assist us was Sonya Marish.

Not having ever met in person, Sonya basically scooped me up on my first day in Byron, and took me on an enormous recce of the area – she drove me all over the region, introduced me to so many local creatives, designers, business owners and interesting creative people.  It was AMAZING!  There was I, fresh off the plane from Melbourne… and here was Sonya, like some kind of long lost friend, taking me on an exhaustive personally guided tour of everyone and anyone she thought might be good for me to see or meet!  It was so lovely.

Sonya runs an incredible design business from her home in Federal – Jatana Interiors. Sonya originally launched Jatana Interiors in 2009 in a slightly roundabout way, after struggling to find interesting tiles for her own home renovation.  In less than five years she has become a respected authority on sourcing antique tiles from all over the world.  She specialises in antique floor tiles, which she salvages from old kitchens, courtyards and buildings from Europe to the Middle East.  She also designs and manufactures reproduction tiles for use in contemporary interiors – these new tiles are handmade in the traditional way, and offer a more affordable alternative to the antique option. Designers and architects come from all over Australia to visit Sonya in her modest home studio and showroom in Federal and see her beautiful range!  (Remember those amazing tiles in the Sydney home of Jodi and Brendan York we ran last week?  They were Sonya’s!).

Sonya is incredibly industrious and hands on, running her business from home with the help of a small team of casual staff.  (She also has 3 kids!).  She’s always full of energy, and constantly inspired to create more new designs and ever more ambitious projects.  Make sure you pop over to Sonya’s website and excellent blog for lots more pics of her tiles in situ!  We’re thrilled to share her story and her beautiful designs with you today.

Tell us a little bit about your background – what did you study, when did your passion for decorative tiles begin and what path led you to what you’re doing now?

I suppose my love of design and colour started in my early adult years, when I began a long and rewarding adventure travelling through Asia and the Middle east. My love for the exotic led me on a path of searching for stunning one off pieces, including fabrics and other treasures that are still proudly displayed throughout my home today. This was a big turning point in my life – my conservative and safe ‘middle class’ upbringing had been flipped upside down, as I found myself in a world of bazaars, markets and back streets, always keeping my eyes open for that something super special!

This fascination with curious objects led me to start my first business of sorts, where I would purchase goods I found overseas and sell them at my market stall in Australia. I would save to go travelling again and again in search of new items to add to my stall after every trip. I was working in travel at the time so it was ideal. My travel experiences are my main source of inspiration.

After having children I had the desire to study Interior Design, and everything started to make sense. I loved decorating, I had a head full of exotic images from the many destinations I had travelled to, and I wanted to cohesively put all of this together.

We happened to be also renovating our home at the same time, and I desperately wanted to put my ideas into action, which was when the last piece of the puzzle was placed. I needed exotic decorative tiles – a solid version of all the beautiful fabrics and quilts in my cupboard. I wanted these on my bathroom floors, and they proved difficult to find, so this was when Jatana Interiors was born!

Sonya’s home office.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

What motivated you to originally launch Jatana Interiors, and can you briefly explain the types of tiles you specialise in?

In 2009 I started sourcing antique tiles from all the corners of the world.  I sought out stunning patterned tiles that become a feature in every application, and the older they were, the more history and the more character they had. Each new tile I discovered had so much potential and was so exciting to work with because of its rich history.

Pretty soon after starting the business I felt the need to study colour and design, which I completed at ISCD. This course was very instrumental in giving me the confidence to begin designing and colour consulting for clients and for my own tile range.

Jatana Interiors offers two ranges of tiles to our clients – an antique range and reproduction range. The antique ranges are salvaged from old buildings, villas, chateaus, farm houses, courtyards and old palaces all over the world.  These tiles vary in quality depending on the design, age and care taken to remove the tiles. The tiles then have the grout removed and are cleaned thoroughly before they are ready to be packed and shipped.

I also offer reproduction tiles. These are new tiles that are a great alternative to the original. They are handmade, and the process of production is the same as the technique used to create the antique tiles. These are perfect for those looking for a new tile with an old world look. As colours can be customised clients are also able to match a tile to an existing interior.

The tiles are pieces of art so you want to love the design you choose. I am there to help in the decision making process, however I would never tell anyone which design they should or must use!  I can help with the experience I have gained, however as with choosing any piece of art, it is a very personal experience and the relationship with that piece of art will necessarily evolve with time.

Jatana Interiors tiles used at The Grounds of Alexandria restaurant in Sydney.  Photo – Michael Wee.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

I’d describe my aesthetic as homely, warm, eclectic, rustic, Indian, layered, cluttered and clear in the right ratios – definitely nothing too sophisticated or formal. I like the casual, the changeable, and the old and charming, but everything has to be exactly right. I am very particular!

Can you briefly describe the creative and production processes employed in the creation of your reproduction tiles?

When creating a new design, it is usually inspired by a feeling or a moment when something amazing has happened. It may have been a scene in the desert in Rajasthan, India, or a design that captured my heart in Turkey, or the moment of peace in Greece or even something outside my very own front door. Something triggers, and from this the process of design takes place. It comes from a feeling.

Then it’s lots of lead pencil and tracing paper (I am yet to nail Photoshop!) and a new pattern, which I will then sit on for a while.

Following this is the process of colour placement (where I use coloured pencils), and I try to visualise the tile design in different settings, and once I have them I am happy!  Where I can see the tile end up is very crucial.

The actual production of the tiles is quite incredible. Very briefly, the tiles are designed and a copper mould is made directly from the design drawings – nothing computer generated!  Samples are then made from the mould to check that the design has been achieved.

The mould dividers are then filled with liquid colour mixture including cement, marble powder and fixing additives. These are applied into the frame separating the colours. The mould is then removed, and a thin layer of sand and cement is laid on top, which absorbs water from the first layer. Following this a mix of sand and cement is laid over this second layer to create the thickness of the tile. The tiles are then pressed in a pressing machine, cured under cold water and then air dried.

They are totally hand made and there are years of training involved in the making of these patterned cement tiles!

When sourcing your gallery antique tile range what are looking for specifically? Are you often required to travel abroad to find them?

When sourcing antique tiles I always visualise where I can see them come to life. The colours have to be right and the design suitable for the Australian home, whether it be a Federation heritage or a contemporary build. There are some very intricate stunning designs I come across, however if I can’t envision them working then I let them go. I have travelled and hope to continue to travel in search of more rarities. My eyes are wide open for designs, not only for my gallery but as a source of inspiration.

I have different designs from all corners of the world. I have travelled through Asia, Europe and the Middle East to find tiles in my range. I also have designs that I have sourced from South America. Many connections over the years have been made!

Antique tiles in Sonya’s bathroom, sourced and salvaged by Sonya.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Can you give us a little insight into the inner workings of Jatana Interiors – how is your studio and factory structured, how many people do you employ, and do you outsource any significant tasks?

I have a little rustic showroom in the hinterland that draws in a range of amazing people from city slickers to business people, designers, architects, and eclectic and colourful individuals. This is where a lot of decision making happens with my clients – creative minds working together, creating aesthetically beautiful outcomes. This is an aspect of the job I really enjoy.

I also have a network of people working involved in the everyday running of Jatana Interiors. I could not do this alone. From my carrier that collects the tiles from the ports, to my three employees who pack the samples, stack the shelves, label the boxes, help organise the orders, then there are all of the couriers and all of the connections I have working for me in exotic destinations salvaging the antique tiles making sure they are in condition to be shipped to Federal!

I don’t personally have a factory, however I have day to day dealings with many factories. So all in all there is a small network that all works together to run Jatana. I feel so fortunate to work with such amazing and real people. Everyone I have worked with to date has been so supportive and I feel so fortunate to be working with such a lovely group of people.

Jatana Interiors tiles in situ in Sonya’s little showroom on her property in Federal.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

What does a typical day involve for you?

Every day is different, but my typical day starts with the usual morning routine – I wake up early and make tea (actually making tea happens all day long), check my emails, get kids ready for school, make school lunches, and do the school drop off.

Then it’s off to work, where I organise samples to be sent, speak to designers, architects and individuals on the phone putting forth ideas for projects, making tile selections for those who ask and need assistance, and combining patterns in my range to suit a particular space. I speak with my suppliers, I search for designs I love, I play with colours, I have clients visit my showroom and of course try and make as much time for my family that I can.

Sonya’s working from her home office. Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Which Australian creative people are you loving at the moment?

Australian creatives that I love are Shannon Fricke, Sibella Court, and Jai Vasicek. They are all incredibly creative and inspirational and I have a huge amount of admiration for each of them. Then of course there are my clients who put my designs to life.

Can you list for us 5 specific resources across any media that you turn to when you’re in a need of a bolt of creative inspiration?

When I need a bolt of inspiration I look at my travel photos, and without a doubt I will find all the inspiration that I need!  I get a lot of inspiration from my children and husband who all are somewhat involved in Jatana. I really trust their opinions and they are all individually creative people.

I also find inspiration from incidentals, such as bicycle tyre marks in the hard sand on the beach, spiderwebs, old textiles (which were my first love) and design books which fill my bookcases at home. In addition to this I read couple of European design mags and of course The Design Files.

I am not huge on social media, however I do try and blog as often as I can. I also have a Pinterest and Instagram accounts.

What would be your dream creative project?

My dream creative project would be to help with the design of an Indian style Haveli full of patterned tiles, old archways, stained glass, columns, exposed beams, the perfect coloured cushions and old hundi lights. Ideally this would be a project located in Rajasthan and ideally I would be working with a team and helping source the tiles and the fabrics to suit. This would be a dream! I have the perfect tile for this job, it’s called Harem!

What are you looking forward to?

I look forward to new designs, over the moon clients and more travels. When a new shipment arrives it is always so exciting to unveil the new designs, it is like opening a treasure chest!

Jatana Interiors tiles in situ in Sonya’s little showroom.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

NSW Coastal / Byron Bay Questions

Your favourite patch of the NSW coast and why?

My favourite patch of NSW coast would have to be Belongil Beach to the Pass. I love walking this beach, there are days when you could mistake it for Tahiti, the water is clean and warm, full of life and of course the people are so lovely. I am so happy to be living in this part of the world and bringing up my children in this supportive, close and creative environment.

Your favourite fossicking spots in Byron Bay for great interior wares?

There are a few really lovely fossicking spots for interior wares including Ahoy Trader, Red Ginger, Our Corner Store in Bangalow, Haveli, Heath’s Old Wares, Shikara, and the local markets. (For more info on some of Sonya’s favourite shops check out our North Coast NSW shopping guide – Lucy)

What and where was the last great meal you had in your local area?

The last great meal (besides my husband Anthony’s famous salmon extraordinaire!) was at the Federal Doma Cafe just outside Byron Bay. Great Japanese food and a lovely environment. The seared salmon is seriously good.

Where would we find you on a typical Saturday morning?

Typical Saturday morning (and afternoon) currently is spent watching my beautiful son and husband play soccer!

The best kept secret in your local area?

Not telling! Although, Treehouse on Belongil is pretty good! As is Heartbreads at the local markets.

The amazing hills in Federal / Bangalow, not far from Sonya’s house!  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

The Murwillumbah studio of textile artist Helle Jorgensen.  Photo – Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Hand woven trinkets and experiments by Helle Jorgensen.  Photo – Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Helle Jorgensen in her studio, winding some handmade twine from natural fibres!  Photo – Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Helle Jorgensen’s crocheted ‘Entropy Collection’, created for an exhibition at the Tweed River Art Gallery last year.

Helle Jorgensen studio details. Photo – Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Helle’s latest obsession – hand winding twine from natural plants and fibres.  Photos – Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

We met some amazingly talented people whilst traipsing around the NSW North Coast, but there was one local creative who really stole our hearts – artist Helle Jorgensen.  What a super lovely, super talented and very industrious lady!

Helle was born in Denmark, and came to Australia as a young girl.  She lived in Sydney until 2009, and moved to a small acreage in the Tweed Valley four years ago with her husband.  Currently she works from a sweet little studio above a shop in Murwillumbah, about 40 mins North of Byron Bay.

Inspired by the extraordinary beauty of the natural world, Helle creates amazing intricate assemblages of tiny crocheted forms, often referencing marine life.  Though it’s very labour intensive, Helle’s creative process is also highly spontaneous.  Each work evolves very intuitively through Helle’s endless experimentation with different techniques and materials.  These materials vary from repurposed plastic bags, to hand-wound twine created using natural plants and fibres.  The creation of this twine is as much part of the artistic process for Helle as the forms themselves… it’s quite amazing to watch just how much work goes into hand winding each length of fibre, even before she’s decided what to create with it!

Helle originally studied biology at university, and after graduating worked mostly in medical research.  She went on to study horticulture, and for a time had her own business providing horticultural services – though she always had a creative streak, and during this time also studied art part-time, majoring in drawing, painting and printmaking. ‘It has been a slow evolution of knowledge and skills, with each field of expertise informing the other’ says Helle, by way of explaining her path from biologist to artist. ‘In the end, every thing has been underpinned by an insatiable curiosity of the natural world’.

Helle is wonderfully succinct when asked to describe her work.  ’I am an investigator of materials and form’ she says. ‘Collecting, arranging and displaying is a large part of my process, as is the use of materials that are discarded, recycled or sustainably harvested. This provides limitations which are my rules of play.’

Helle’s current obsession is an investigation of natural materials, foraged from her garden.  She’s currently hand winding fibre from various plant matter, and working on a collection of experimental weaving techniques that she hopes to exhibit later this year.  We’ll be sure to keep you posted!

In the meantime, do pop over and check out Helle’s excellent blog, which documents lots of her earlier work!

Tiny crocheted marine organisms by Helle Jorgensen, made from hand-wound plastic bag yarn!  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Studio details.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Looking from entrance hall through to kitchen.  Horse’s head from Strange Trader.  Railway light hanging overhead.  Timber and bronze sculptures to the right by David Bromley.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Artwork, magazines, collected ephemera in the entry hall.  A mix of artwork by David Bromley and Heidi Yardley, timber carving by David Bromley, Gypsy girl painting by an unknown artist in the USA.  Photo – Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master Bedroom 1! (There are two!).  Quilt and wall mural by David Bromley.  Painting above bed – old Russian propaganda painting – find similar Russian paintings at Bromley and Yuge’s shop in Byron, In This Street.  Bottom right – Bernard Buffet lithographs.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining and living / TV room.  Incredible hand painted wall mural by David Bromley.  Quilts on far couches by David Bromley (don’t forget you can win one of these quilts this week – comment on Monday’s post to be in the running!).  Printed Bonnie and Neil cushions from Ahoy Trader.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Ok.  I promised you something special today and by GOLLY am I going to deliver on that!  This home is so freaking amazing.  It rendered Toby and me pretty much speechless in person… which always makes for a daunting shoot, in which you’re desperately hoping your shots will capture some of that magic, and that the camera lens will accurately convey the visual feast before your eyes.  I do hope we’ve succeeded in that mission today, and that this story feels like a true and honest documentation of one of the most amazing homes I have ever set foot in!

Clearly, this magical property is the Byron Bay home of artist David Bromley, his wife Yuge, and their gorgeous little baby, Wen.  David and Yuge have lived here just about two years, after relocating from Melbourne.  David was always drawn to the relaxed lifestyle here, and had often travelled here before setting up a more permanent home in Byron with Yuge in 2011.

Ironically though, there doesn’t appear to have been much ‘relaxing’ going on since David and Yuge moved here!  No sooner had they relocated, and David was up to his usual tricks – the property, which Bromley previously held as a weekender, was significantly re-worked, turning it into both a functional living and working space. David soon also acquired the property next door – pulling down the fence to create a dedicated studio and office space, and headquarters for Yuge’s fashion label.  The pair have also created an incredible sculpture garden shared by the two properties, filled with David’s own work and an ever-growing collection of artwork, vehicles and vintage collectables.

Whilst they have worked tirelessly to create a special home here, both David and Yuge have been careful to retain the original charm of this property, with its rambling gardens and out houses.  One of these outdoor pavillions has now been turned into an incredible summer bedroom adjoining the main house (so amazing!), whilst another serves as a painting studio.  Though they’ve made impressive progress in just two years, David and Yuge’s home has evolved very much organically, and changes made have been cosmetic rather than structural.

‘We are big believers in working with the original construct of buildings’ explains Yuge. ‘Renovating, wall removal and subtle reconfiguring is awesome fun and amazing, but building for us is daunting and disruptive. We’re not opposed to painting the walls though – painting a room a new colour is like having a holiday!’.  Indeed, soon after relocating here, Yuge recalls she and David would often end their work days to go and spend early evenings paintings the rooms in their house together.  I can so imagine that.  I hope it involved a glass of wine in one hand, and a paintbrush in the other!

Though it’s clearly a seriously impressive and kind of mind-bloggling space, the charm of this home really rests on its sense of light-heartedness and sponteneity.  It’s clear that this house has come together very intuitively, rather than adhering to a grand master plan. This is evident everywhere you look – in the wide stripes painted freehand on the kitchen walls, and the ad hoc placement of artwork from floor to ceiling, wherever it will fit, underneath windows and above doorways.  Yuge and David see furniture and objects as very much part of the architecture of a home – ‘placing bits and pieces we love around the house is how we build a space’ says Yuge.  Despite it’s devilish good looks, there’s nothing precious about this home – like so many of David’s creative endeavours, the space is ever-changing.

I feel so very lucky to have had the opportunity to document this truly special Australian Home.  MASSIVE thanks to David and Yuge for being so open and generous, and for trusting us to share their private world with you all!

ALSO, a reminder – we have an amazing giveaway running all week, thanks to David and Yuge, and their retail store In This Street!  One lucky reader will win a choice of any piece from Yuge’s beautiful womenswear range, and a stunning linen quilt by David Bromley, valued at $1,100.  Please visit Monday’s post and leave a comment over there before 10.00pm this Friday to be in the running.

Amazing TV room!  Incredible hand painted wall mural by David Bromley.  Quilts by David Bromley (don’t forget you can win one of these quilts this week – comment on Monday’s post to be in the running!).  ’Moon rock’ felted cushions from Japan.  Printed Bonnie and Neil cushions from Ahoy Trader.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Loungeroom details – a mix of mid century and African artefacts. Wall mural by David Bromley.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen with amazing monochromatic stripes, painted freehand by David – around the artwork in some areas! Two portraits at top by David Bromley, below – a Russian painting by an unknown artist.  Rug from Loom Rugs.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen detail.  A painting found in China. Printed pottery on shelf to left by David Bromley.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Looking from dining to kitchen.  Early painting by David Bromley on the kitchen walls, created as studies on the Bloomsbury Group.  Michael Pugh ceramic pot in foreground.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Joe Furlonger painting in dining room. Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Looking in to kitchen from the garden.  ’We love the inside being linked to the outside, and the outside linked to the inside’ says Yuge.  Paths throughout the yard are made from garden stakes.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

A long timber shed adjoining the main house has been converted into a summer bedroom, complete with in-room bathtub and private courtyard.  Quilts and painting above bed by David Bromley.  One bed is for David and Yuge – the adjacent bed is for little Wen.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Summer bedroom, complete with in-room bathtub.  Quilts by David Bromley.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

A long timber shed adjoining the main house has been converted into a summer bedroom, complete with in-room bathtub.  Quilts by David Bromley.  One bed is for David and Yuge – the adjacent bed is for little Wen.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Outside bath on back porch, from Reece.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Side door and entrance hall.  Timber carved sculpture by David Bromley.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Amazing gardens.  ’The gardens here grow so well, and with some adventurous planting you can be living in a forest in no time’ says Yuge. ‘Bamboo grows in front of your eyes, and the weather here makes you look like a good gardener, whereas truthfully it just nature doing its thing!’  Enormous painted mesh Giraffe sculpture by Melbourne artist Tom Ripon (Tom has no website but is stocked in Melbourne by The Cool Roomin Balaclava).  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Exterior of David’s favourite backyard studio.  Paths made from garden stakes.  Pizza oven bought from a cooking school. French antique glass vase.  Lights made from Japanese fishing floats.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Of course they have an airstream caravan too…!   Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bromley’s favourite backyard studio. Butterflies painting on easel by David Bromley.  Rug from Loom Rugs.  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Detail from David’s backyard studio. ‘Sulky Boy’ painting by David Bromley. Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Painted schoolbus by David Bromley.  Elephant sculpture by Melbourne artist Tom Ripon (Tom has no website but is stocked in Melbourne by The Cool Roomin Balaclava).  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Old Studebaker found in Daylesford, perched in the garden!  Photo - Toby Scott, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Today’s sweet treat from Theresa Nguyen of The Gook is inspired by a simple trip to the Asian grocer!  Here Theresa rekindled her childhood love of chocolate ‘Pocky’ sticks… and teamed them with confectionary moulds from awesome Japanese $2.00 store Daiso to create a super ‘kawaii’ (ie. cute!) triple chocolate lollipop treat!  The perfect creative culinary project for the young, or young at heart – Lucy.

Choco Pocky Pops by Theresa Nguyen / The Gook, photo – Phu Tang, styling – Gemma Lush.  Plate by Dinosaur Designs.

I’m one of those people who spends at least an hour in an Asian grocer. It’s like the best pantry I’ve ever set foot in. I walk up and down the aisles, very slowly, examining as many products as I can, while looking for inspiration for my next recipe concoction.

My favourite aisle by far is the lolly aisle – it’s fascinating.  I get completely drawn in by the brightly coloured packaging, or by the zillion unusual flavour combinations. It was in the lolly aisle that I recently picked up my one of my all time favourite Asian sweet snacks - Pocky. These tiny thin sweet bread sticks dipped in chocolate are something I remember eating a lot of as a kid.

As soon as I dropped the Pocky pack into my basket, my mind bounced to the cutest ever chocolate mould I’d picked up from my other favourite Asian store, Daiso* a few days earlier. Within an instant, I’d put two-and-two together and the Choco Pocky Pop was born – right in the lolly aisle of an Asian grocer!

These Chocy Pocky Pops are a triple chocolate feast. The first chocolate hit is from the pop bit, the second from the pocky stick, then best and final chocolate hit – licking the chocolate all over your fingers. Pure deliciousness. No pesky sticks to throw out and you get to be a kid again, even it is for a brief moment.

*A Japanese dollar store also known as a 100 yen store. Every product is $2.80. Cheap and cheerful, plus the stock changes every few weeks! You may not find this exact mould design at your local Daiso. But I have also seen some great plastic ones at my local craft store too.

Choco Pocky Pops by Theresa Nguyen / The Gook, photo - Phu Tang, styling - Gemma Lush.

Ingredients

1 x lollipop mould, from your local Daiso store
80g your favourite chocolate, we used milk and white chocolate
1 packet of Pocky
1 packet of Hundreds and Thousands sprinkles

Method (Makes Four Pocky Pops)

Place silicon mould onto long tray or plate and place Pocky sticks into position. The tray should be long and deep enough so the Pocky sits level once placed onto mould.

Melt milk chocolate over double boiler. Double boiling is a process where you place your ingredients, in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of water on a low-medium heat. Chocolate can seize if heated too quickly, so watch the chocolate carefully and as soon as the chocolate has melted take the bowl off the heat.

Spoon the melted chocolate into the moulds, while also ensuring the Pocky sticks are completely covered in chocolate.

Sprinkle the back of the animal mould (i.e. the flat surface facing you) with hundreds and thousands.

Refrigerate until the chocolate has set, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Then take your kawaii creations out the mould carefully and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

MASSIVE thanks to Theresa for joining us with her ‘Sweet ‘n Silly’ desserts for the month of May!  For more recipes from Theresa, do check out her own brilliant food blog – The Gook!

Choco Pocky Pops by Theresa Nguyen / The Gook, photo - Phu Tang, styling - Gemma Lush.

The studio of Gold Coast based artist Anna Carey.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Sunset Place, 2012 by Anna Carey.  Digital print, edition of 5, 100cm x 150cm.

Star Dust, 2012 by Anna Carey.  Digital print, edition of 5, 100cm x 150cm.

Reception, 2010 by Anna Carey.  Giclee print, edition of 5, 118cm x 79cm.

Anna Carey in her home studio.  Photo – Toby Scott.

We met a LOT of talented creative people during our trip up North, and one of them was the very lovely Anna Carey.  Anna is a young Gold Coast based artist, whose practice overlaps photography and sculpture. She creates these intricate paper models of long forgotten, slightly crumbling Gold Coast-style buildings, created from memory.  She then photographs her models, capturing a sense of uniquely Australian architectural nostalgia. When captured in this way, for a brief moment these fragile models appear life size… but upon closer inspection it’s clear that despite their familiarity, these buildings and interior spaces exist only as fleeting fragments of Anna’s very vivid imagination!

Anna was born and raised on the Gold Coast, and her work is, of course, heavily inspired by her summery surroundings.  She’s inspired by the distinctive houses, hotels and motels built in the 50′s and 60′s, with their ice cream colours and mid century styling.  Amidst the Gold Coast’s faceless high rise metropolis, it’s these modest, often dilapidated buildings which really give the Gold Coast it’s character.

‘Firstly I start with a memory of a place, and then I create the space based on imagination and memory’ Anna explains. ‘I usually sketch a space, however it always changes as my imagination grows. As a result the models are fragmented, like memory itself.  Model making is an important part of the process; it is like a memory mapping exercise. The photograph of the model documents this imaginative process’.

Anna Carey has a Bachelor of Visual Media from Griffith University. She’s only 25, but she has already exhibited in numerous exhibitions Australia wide, and in 2011 was a finalist in both the Churchie Emerging Art Prize and the Queensland Regional Art Awards.   She’s currently undertaking her PhD, in which she plans to explore the architecture and spatial experiences of not just the Gold Coast, but similar international cities such as Los Angeles and Las Vegas, where she plans to travel later this year.  Watch this space!

If you’re in Queensland, Anna’s work can be seen currently in the Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award at the Gold Coast City Art Gallery until May 19th (just a few more days!).  She is represented in Sydney by Artereal Gallery.

Anna Carey in her studio.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Greenmount Beach at Coolangatta.  Photo – Toby Scott.  TDF x North Coast branding by Jess Lillico.

The amazing gardens at The Atlantic Byron Bay.  Photo - Toby Scott.

One of our favourite shops in Byron Bay, Ahoy Trader.  Photo - Toby Scott.

The lovely Tristan, owner of Harvest Cafe and deli in Newrybar – the perfect lunch spot! Photo - Toby Scott.

Harvest Cafe Newrybar – the perfect lunch spot! Photo - Toby Scott.

David Bromley‘s amazing studio in Byron Bay.  Photo - Toby Scott.

In This Street - One of Byron’s most beautiful shops, stocking artwork and homewards by David Bromley, and womenswear by Yuge Yu.  Photo - Toby Scott.

ALRIGHT!  It may be looking a little gloomy in Melbourne this week… but get ready for some sunshine, as we bring you a week of highlights from the beautiful North Coast of NSW!

As you may know if you follow TDF on instagram, I recently spent a week in Byron Bay and the surrounding region, soaking up the sun and surf (ok I didn’t actually go in the water but you get the idea) and finding out first hand just what makes this beautiful part of Australia so special.  I met SO many generous, incredibly friendly and talented people, I ate some outrageously good food, I parted with a good chunk of hard earned cash at a handful of seriously beautiful shops, and I also worked very hard with the brilliant Toby Scott to produce a little round-up of highlights to share with you all here!

SO we’re kicking things off today with a regional guide which lists of some of my favourite discoveries on the NSW North Coast (incorporating Byron Bay, Bangalow, Newrybar, Federal and Coolangatta).  I have to say I’m somewhat hesitant to call it a ‘guide’ actually, because this region is so full of amazing creative people and interesting places, I am sure I’ve left a million things out!  But anyway… it’s just a little taste, and I do hope it will be helpful for anyone planning a trip soon!

We thrilled also to have a very special Byron-inspired GIVEAWAY running all week, thanks to artist David Bromley and his partner, fashion designer Yuge Yu!  David and Yuge relocated from Melbourne to Byron around two years ago, and have created the most incredible home and business in the main street of Byron Bay. Their shop, In This Street, stocks David’s artwork and homewares, alongwide Yuge’s beautiful range of womenswear.

David Bromley + Yuge Yu GIVEAWAY!

From Yuge – a choice of any piece from Yuge’s current womenswear range – do check out her website and online store for a look at her designs!

From David – A stunning linen quilt valued at $1,100, depicting Bromley’s distinctive childhood-inspired imagery.  Bromley’s new range of quilts are all individually stitched and embroidered, and are filled with cosy bamboo fibre wadding.

Huge thanks to David and Yuge for this generous giveaway… and a big CONGRATS  is in order too – they tied the knot just last week!

To be in the running, simply leave a comment on today’s post before 10.00pm Melbourne time by this Friday (17th May 2013).

Please be patient if WordPress behaves a little slower than usual this morning, as you have a whole week to enter! A winner will be selected at random and contacted by email next Monday (20th May 2013).

Stay tuned all this week as we’ll introduce you to many more creative people and places from this beautiful part of Australia…!

Massive thanks to lovely locals Leah Bartholomew and Sonya Marish for showing us around and sharing their favourite local haunts with us!  Thanks to Jess Lillico for creating our fabulous North Coast NSW branding / banner you can see up the top there.  Thanks also to the beautiful Atlantic Byron Bay, who generously subsidised our accommodation in Byron.  AND to Mr Toby Scott, who took ALL the pics AND drove me around the entire region in his Ute.  What a star!

Ahoy Trader

One of our favourite shops in Byron Bay, Ahoy Trader.  Photo - Toby Scott.

The lovely and always smiley Jai, owner of Ahoy Trader!  Photo - Toby Scott.

Jai Vasicek is AMAZING.  He’s twenty something, full of infectious buzzing energy and never seen without a smile from ear to ear.  He is the owner of Ahoy Trader, one of Byron’s loveliest homewares / gift shops.  Jai spent his childhood living on a boat for over 10 years, sailing the globe with his family!  So he has a few nautical tattoos, but they are totally legit.

Jai is also the creator of the beautiful decorative tiles / crucifixes seen in our Mother’s Day Gift Guide (stocked in Melbourne at Fenton and Fenton).

Ahoy Trader
1/3 Marvel Street
Byron Bay
NSW

In This Street

In This Street - stocking artwork and homewards by David Bromley, and womenswear by Yuge Yu.  Photo - Toby Scott.

In This Street - carved timber utensils and fashion by David Bromley.  Photo - Toby Scott.

In This Street - stocking artwork and homewards by David Bromley, and womenswear by Yuge Yu.  Photo - Toby Scott.

In This Street - fashion by Yuge Yu.  Photo - Toby Scott.

In This Street rear courtyard, featuring sculpture by David Bromley.  Photo - Toby Scott.

As mentioned above, In This Street is one of Byron’s most amazing shops, and it’s owned by artist David Bromley and his partner, fashion designer Yuge Yu.  The shop sells a mix of David’s artwork, homewares and collectables, and Yuge’s beautiful womenswear, as well as a range of vintage pieces and ceramics sourced by David and Yuge from Australia and beyond.  Don’t forget to leave a comment on today’s post to enter our generous giveaway from David and Yuge!

We were very lucky also to have the opportunity to photograph David and Yuge’s  INCREDIBLE home whilst in Byron.  Nothing can prepare you for it’s madness and beauty!  Stay tuned for that on Wednesday…

In This Street
1/58 Jonson Street
Byron Bay
NSW

Island Luxe Tribe

Island Luxe Tribe - amazing fashion and homewares store in Byron Bay.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Island Luxe Tribe in Byron Bay.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Island Luxe have two stores in this region – one in Marvel street Byron Bay and the other in Bangalow.  They are both SO GOOD.  Each represent the very best international fashion and accessories labels for both men and women, including Maison Martin Margiela (!!), Belstaff, Golden Goose and many more.  They also have beautiful homewares – cashmere blankets, handcrafted ceramics… etc etc.  The Byron store (known as Island Luxe Tribe) is a little darker, a little edgier, more leather, more masculine… the Bangalow store a little softer, stocking a slightly more neutral palette.  You must visit BOTH.

Island Luxe Tribe
1/11 Marvel Street
Byron Bay
NSW

Atlantic Byron Bay

The beautiful Atlantic Byron Bay Guesthouse.  Photo - Toby Scott.

The beautiful Atlantic Byron Bay Guesthouse.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Atlantic Byron Bay have an airstream caravan you can stay in!  (Not ideal for tall men but very excellent otherwise!)  Photo - Toby Scott.

As mentioned above, Toby and I were extremely lucky to stay at The Atlantic Byron Bay during our time in Byron.  The guesthouse incorporates self contained cottage rooms which each open onto the luscious shared gardens (pictured above), as well as ‘The Lodge’  - a beautifully renovated guest house offering private rooms with ensuites, as well as shared kitchen / living spaces, and of course, amongst a backdrop of palm trees sits the American Airstream Trailer, which you can stay in too!

Atlantic Byron Bay was in the best location we could have imagined – on our favourite street, just metres from some of Byron’s best eating spots (Targa, Naked Treaties and Bayleaf Cafe) and just 5 mins walk to the beach!

Atlantic Byron Bay
13 Marvel Street
Byron Bay
NSW

Heath’s Old Wares

Heath’s Old Wares - amazing vintage goodness in Bangalow.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Ross Heath of Heath’s Old Wares - amazing vintage goodness in Bangalow.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Heath’s Old Wares probably needs no introduction – this place has a cult following!  This huge warehouse just off the main street at Bangalow is stocked to the brim with industrial finds and collectables such as timber crates, antique ladders, vintage tools, pottery, glassware, cane baskets, enamelware, books, furniture and much much more…. you really could lose a whole afternoon in here!

Proprietor Ross Heath is a character too – a lovely guy who always has a twinkle in his eye!

Heath’s Old Wares
12 Station Street
Bangalow
NSW

Our Corner Store

Miranda of Our Corner Store in Bangalow (her business partner, Aneka was overseas when we visited!).  Photo - Toby Scott.

Our Corner Store in Bangalow.  Photo - Toby Scott.

The lovely Corner Store in Bangalow is a relatively new addition to the main street, having been here about 18 months. It’s full of lovely gift ideas from clothing to stationery to kids gifts and the odd handcrafted gem.

Our Corner Store
1/36 Byron Street
Bangalow
NSW

Island Luxe

Island Luxe in Bangalow – the most exquisite edit of homewares, fashion and accessories.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Island Luxe in Bangalow. Photo - Toby Scott.

As mentioned above, Island Luxe in Bangalow is the sister store to Island Luxe Tribe in Byron.  Both are seriously amazing, but I think my personal fave is the Bangalow store.. they have such truly exquisite things.  I wanted to buy 2 jumpers, 1 jacket, a pair of amazing Golden Goose shoes and a cashmere blanket!  I restrained myself… although I did leave with an excellent pair of sunglasses.

I would travel to Bangalow just to visit this store, it is that good.  Man I wish they had an online shop!

Island Luxe
62 Byron Street
Bangalow
NSW

Harvest Cafe

Harvest Cafe and deli in Newrybar – SO great.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Harvest Cafe and deli in Newrybar.  Excellent food and such lovely people.  Pictured above,  one of Harvest’s chefs, Shannon Smerdon, who previously worked at Long Grain in Sydney!  He knows what he’s doing.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Harvest deli in Newrybar.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Harvest deli in Newrybar.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Harvest deli bakes their own delicious bread.  Photo - Toby Scott.

When you tell people you’re going to Byron Bay, EVERYONE tells you to go to one place for lunch, and that place is Harvest Cafe.  Everyone loves Harvest.  Oldies, kids, families, foodies and tradies.  No matter who you are, you really can’t go past the charm of this place, with its perfect mix of seriously excellent food, lovely local staff and beautiful surroundings.

Harvest is housed in a beautiful Victorian weatherboard cottage, surrounded on all sides by a wide verandah and leafy gardens.  They have their own vegetable garden from which they harvest much of their seasonal produce.  Harvest have also recently opened an amazing delicatessen next door to the restaurant, where you can buy house baked bread, cheeses and cured meats and all kinds of delicious take home morsels.

Harvest is open 7 days for breakfast and lunch from 8.30am. They also serve dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.  It’s best to book for lunch, no matter what day of the week!

Harvest Cafe
18 Old Pacific Highway
Newrybar
NSW

Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum of the Sea

Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum of the Sea - it must be seen to be believed.  Madness.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum of the Sea - vintage nautical goldmine.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum of the Sea - vintage nautical goldmine.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum of the Sea - vintage nautical goldmine.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum of the Sea really must be seen to be believed.  It’s overflowing with the most incredible collection of vintage nautical treasures, scavenged and sourced by proprietor Ray Evans.  It’s not an entirely straight forward retail experience, however – this place is part antiques shop, part ‘Museum of the sea’ – meaning that there’s a good chunk of stuff here that is so random and brilliant that it’s actually not even for sale.  The original vintage diving suits, for instance.  And the shark jaws.

Still, it’s seriously jaw droppingly awesome.  A must visit!

Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum of the Sea
Corner of Chinderah Bay Street and Waugh Street
Chinderah
NSW

Cafe Loren

Best lunch in Coolangatta - Cafe Loren!  Photo - Toby Scott.

Delicious lunch at Cafe Loren. Photo - Toby Scott.

During our time on the NSW coast we made time to have lunch with the lovely Leah Bartholomew of Beneath the Sun, who relocated from Melbourne to Coolangatta last year.  Leah gave us lots of leads and introduced us to some of her favourite local hangouts, one of which was the wonderful Cafe Loren at the Southern end of the Gold Coast in Tugun (OK officially this is Queensland not NSW but you know, it’s all interchangeable).

We ate the most delicious plate of lamb kofte with a selection of house-made salad… it was SO GOOD!  I can be quite snobbish when it comes to salads (ahem, you know after all I am the salad queen), but believe me when I say the salads here are to die for!  The sweet potato one was out of this world.  Highly recommend.

Cafe Loren are open for breakfast 7 days, and for lunch Monday to Saturday.

Cafe Loren
Shop 5, 5 Toolona Street
Tugun
QLD

Found Furniture

Excellent mid-century finds at Found Furniture in Tugun (near Coolangatta).  Photo - Toby Scott.

Kelly Nuss, co-owner of Found Furniture in Tugun.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Kelly Nuss and her husband Matt own Found Furniture on the Gold Coast, specialising in Mid Century and Danish pieces.  After many requests for outdoor cane lounge furniture, Kelly and Matt have also developed their own range of fabulous antique-style Manila Cane Chairs and lounges, upholstered in a variety of stunning mid century inspired fabrics.

Found Furniture are open Tuesday – Saturday, 9.30am until 4.00pm.  They also happily shop anywhere in Australia.

Found Furniture
2/471 Golden Four Drive
Tugun
QLD

FEDERAL dOMA CAFE

Federal Domo Japanese Cafe. There is no signage, there is no website.  Just go. Photo - Toby Scott.

Federal Doma Japanese Cafe.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Federal is a teeny tiny town about 15 minutes from Byron Bay.  There isn’t really much there at all.  A general store, and a few houses. That’s about it.  BUT no matter where I went, as soon as I mentioned I had planned to go to Federal, people kept telling me about this amazing little Japanese cafe.

No one told me the name of it, or the address.  But that didn’t really matter, because all you really have to do is drive into Federal and you will see it.  As far as I could gather, Federal Doma cafe is owned by two Japanese couples who moved to Federal less than a year ago.  They cook amazing sushi and simple, authentic Japanese meals, and it’s all super fresh and tasty and so reasonably priced.

There’s no signage.  There’s no website.  Just go.

Federal Doma Cafe
 Just go to Federal and you will see it.

WE ALSO Highly Recommended

· Targa
· Naked Treaties
· Bayleaf Cafe

Tallow Beach, seen from Byron Bay lighthouse.  Photo - Toby Scott.

Group Hug by Carmel Seymour, 2012, watercolour and pencil on paper, 72cm x 52cm.

A Walk with a Park by Carmel Seymour, 2013, graphite on paper, 72cm x 52cm

Works on paper by Carmel Seymour.  Photo – Eve Wilson.

Carmel Seymour at work in Melbourne. Photo - Eve Wilson.

Carmel Seymour at Helen Gory Galerie.  Photo - Eve Wilson.

I’d love to make the claim that artist Carmel Seymour is Melbourne based, but in fact, although she grew up here, at the moment Carmel calls Iceland home.  After travelling to Iceland in 2011 to undertake an artists residency, she’s spent the past three years living and working in Reykjavik – though, impressively, she’s also managed to maintain a regular exhibition calendar in Melbourne, where she is represented by Helen Gory Galerie.

After spending her early twenties working in fashion as a patternmaker and designer, Carmel realised that the highly competitive ready-to-wear industry just wasn’t her world.  She felt an urge to return to painting and drawing – something she had loved as a child, but had set aside in favour of more ‘sensible’ career pursuits!  In 2006, she took a leap of faith, leaving her job to study fine art at the VCA.

Carmel’s works on paper elegantly combine highly detailed pencil sketches with painterly fields of vivid watercolour.  Her work is inspired by storytelling, natural flora and fauna, mysticism, psychology and science.  She’s particularly skilled at rendering intricate textures, which is perhaps most obvious when looking at her graphite sketches – every strand of hair seems to jump off the page!  So beautiful.

Carmel is in Melbourne this month, preparing for her solo show at Helen Gory Galerie which opens next week.  Entitled Romance Hero, the exhibition is inspired by a residency Carmel undertook in Berlin last November,  and centres around the idea of ‘trust games’ –  the comfort of being part of a group, and the power of group consciousness.

We’re so glad to have caught Carmel before she heads back to Reykjavik in a few weeks time!

Romance Hero by Carmel Seymour
15th May to 8th June
Helen Gory Galerie 
25 St Edmonds Road
Prahran, VIC 

Tell us a little about your background – what path led you to becoming a fine artist, and to creating the style of work you are currently making?

I always spent a lot of time drawing as a child, but when I got to high school I decided I should instead follow a more income friendly career path. So up until my mid twenties I was working in the fashion industry, as a patternmaker and designer, but it left me feeling cold. I actually used to have dreams about going to art school before I considered it as a legitimate possibility. My unconscious state asleep was way ahead of me!

Once I started studying again I was amazed at how supportive and nurturing my teachers and fellow students were, it was a real contrast to the competitive nature of the fashion world. I have never looked back.

My fashion background has left me with a love of pattern and texture. I often include detailed textiles and decorative elements within my work. I love finding these patterns in the natural world as well, such as the swirls of colour in agate or the lichen formations on rocks.

A residency program in the Icelandic countryside a few years ago really opened up an appreciation for flora of all types – I love botanical illustration. I guess I try to emulate that level of detail in some of my own paintings.

Trust Games 2 by Carmel Seymour, 2013, watercolour and pencil on paper.

How would you describe your work?

Someone once told me my work was like a storybook for adults, I quite like that.  My work is heavily driven by narrative. I use a fairly realistic style to get these stories across.

I am interested in the unknown, I spent a long time researching the occult and different forms of mysticism, but now I seem to find the same sense of wonder and mystery in the natural world with psychology and science, and particularly early scientific thought. I emulate these quests for magic and wonder on a domestic scale, with depictions of ritualistic play within and around the home.

What can we expect to see in your new exhibition ‘Romance Hero’ at Helen Gory Galerie in Melbourne? What has inspired this body of work?

I spent a month doing a residency in Berlin last November. I went there with a really clear idea of what I wanted to make, but after a week all that turned on its head. I was really fascinated with the east/west split. I met someone whose parents had had a lot of trouble adjusting to unified Germany after living within the rigid structures of communism. At the same time I found a number of wartime photos of gymnastic displays in Iceland.

All of this lead me to think about group activities and trust games, the comfort of being part of a group and the power of the group mind. It made me think of a particularly strange experience I had at a corporate training day many years ago!

The works in the show are all a play on these trust games, and the equipment around them. I had a lot of fun actually recreating some of these games with friends to generate the images for the show.

Can you give us a little insight into your process? What materials do you use? Is each work pre-planned or created very intuitively? Do you work on multiple works at one time? And how long does each work take to complete?

I generally use watercolour and graphite on paper. I love working on paper, sometimes its fragility can drive me a little crazy though.

I sketch a lot. I usually plan an image fairly carefully in my sketchbook before I draw it up. Then I try and find a friend or I photograph myself in a range of variations of the poses I need. I use these photos and a range of other imagery to collage an image together. I start with a light sketch and then I let the painting evolve organically on the paper. I often incorporate large spills of colour into the paintings and these can dictate the direction the work goes in.

I try to have more than one work going at once, but with the watercolours there is no going backwards, so often its better to stay in the mindset of that current piece. The painting can take anywhere from a week to six weeks, partly because of the amount of detail, but also because some are harder to resolve than others.

Carmel Seymour‘s works and sketchbooks.  Photo - Eve Wilson.

What does a typical day at work involve for you in Iceland?

I try to get up early, but in Icelandic winter when it’s dark it is a real battle! I like to ride my bike from home to my studio, and on not so windy days I can ride right along the ocean all the way there, it’s so pretty but quite a torturous ride if the wind is up. I try to spend the first half of the day doing admin things like writing applications or proposals or researching ideas for new work.

Then it’s usually a coffee, my studio space is right next to downtown so it is quite easy to get distracted by antiques, book stores or op shops, but at least I can still call this ‘research’, I think. Then I will try to paint or draw till the evening, my eyes tend to pack it in after about five hours on the detailed works.

Carmel Seymour at work in Melbourne. Photo - Eve Wilson.

Can you list for us 5 resources across any media that you turn to regularly for creative inspiration?

Audible.com – I have to listen to audiobooks when I paint. I find they glue me to the chair more than anything else. A really great story will filter into the work as well. I am currently listening to Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver.

Cabinet Magazine – This is the most amazing resource. Each issue has a range of articles covering all sorts of things, such as comparative literature, history, art and science. They have a great website as well with back issues of all there articles.

Secondhand bookstores – I love treasure hunting. The books that fall into your path in these kind of places often set a new body of work in motion.

Antiques markets and junk shops – I also find old photographs and objects tend to create new ideas for the position of figures or the creation of narratives.

Podcasts – This American Life and Radiolab are probably my favourites, but I need to take a break from them every now and again, the presenters sometimes get to me!

Which other local artists, designers or creative people are you most inspired by at the moment?

I can’t stop looking at my wedding band made my Krista McCrae. It’s so beautiful. We did a swap of some artwork for the ring so it is extra special.

I haven’t seen that many shows while I have been back in Australia this time but I did just go to Mona for the first time a few weeks ago and that blew my mind, what a theme park. Converse to that, I saw a nice show at TCB yesterday with Christo Crocker and Noriko Nakamura among others that was quiet, intricate and lovely.

And I have to mention my brother Kieren Seymour. He is an artist as well and he works with so much energy and has such a unique voice and sense of humour in his work. He is always inspiring me to try new things.

What is your proudest career achievement to date?

Probably my time at the various residencies I have taken part in. There is always a great moment in a beautiful landscape or new city when I realise this is my job and how lucky I am.

It is always lovely when my work sells or better still when a show sells out! It is lovely to speak to someone who really engages with the work as well, I love hearing alternate interpretations of the imagery.

What would be your dream project?

I spend so much time making my work alone in my studio; I would love to be involved with more collaborative projects, maybe on a larger scale. I had a ball working with Lucy James at the Copyshop project at C3 last year.

What are you looking forward to?

I head back to Reykjavik in a few weeks, and I am dying to get back into my beautiful studio. I bought a new set of oil paints recently and I want to take them for a spin. I also hope to do a short ceramics course this year. So I guess, lots of new materials and lots of mess.

Feels Lichen Home by Carmel Seymour, watercolour and pencil on paper.

MELBOURNE QUESTIONS

Your favourite Melbourne neighbourhood and why?

I loved living in Brunswick when I lived in Melbourne. There is so much great food there, but now I appreciate so many parts of Melbourne after being away living in such a small city. I really enjoy wandering through the city and around Fitzroy, and I have had some really nice family catch-ups along the beach in St.Kilda this year during the heat wave.

Where do you shop in Melbourne for the tools of your trade?

Definitely Melbourne Artists Supplies, they stock everything!

Studio details.  Photo - Eve Wilson.

Where / what was the last great meal you ate in Melbourne?

Oh that’s easy. I had two in one day recently. My husband and I were treated to two special meals in one day as wedding presents from some very lovely friends. Golden Fields for lunch and Machi for dinner. Both in St. Kilda, both amazing. There was great Sake at Machi as well. It was a very decadent day!  The food in Reykjavik is not that diverse, so most food in Melbourne is a treat after being there for a while.

Your favourite thing to do when you’re back in Melbourne?

Eat! Eat good gluten free bread from Black Ruby’s or Gluten Free for You (you can’t get it in Reykjavik). Catch up with well-missed friends, in t-shirt weather… at night time! I also get an enormous craving for the Botanical gardens when I am away, that is usually one of my first stops when I get back.

When you’re back in Melbourne where would we find you on a typical Saturday morning?

Well honestly probably playing with my cats at my parents’ house. Then going for coffee with friends.

Melbourne’s best kept secret?

The op shops on Centre Road in Bentleigh where I picked up two pairs of mint condition sneakers yesterday for $18. Also, I don’t know how much of a secret it is but the mineral collection at the Melbourne Museum is pretty spectacular as well.

Blanksblom by Carmel Seymour, watercolour and pencil on paper.

Handcrafted ceramics by Adelaide based Susan Frost.   Photos by Grant Hancock.

Handcrafted ceramics by Adelaide based Susan Frost.   Photos by Grant Hancock.

Handcrafted ceramics by Adelaide based Susan Frost.   Photos by Grant Hancock.

Oh my goodness. Have I been living under a rock!? How did I not know about South Australian ceramicist Susan Frost before now!?  Her work is exquisite!

As outlined below, Susan originally worked in a variety of jobs including retail buying and administration, before taking up ceramics whilst spending time living in the UK with her husband.  It seems many talented ceramicists seem to discover their craft later in life!  (This reminds me of Bruce Rowe / Anchor Ceramics who we featured recently).

Though she had previously taken a variety of creative classes, there was something about clay which really resonated with Susan. After moving back to Australia in 2006 she was keen to pursue ceramics, and in 2009 was accepted into the JamFactory Associate Program, allowing her to focus on her practice full-time.

The result is a stunning collection of functional vessels, characterised by Scandi-inspired clean lines, and a beautiful, muted palette of 13 coloured glazes.

Susan has an exhibition on currently at Council of Objects in Adelaide called (re)Collected Hues.  It’s on now until 25th May.  She is also involved in group exhibition currently on until 20th May called 365 Cups: A Cup a Day at Worth Gallery in Adelaide.

Susan works from her studio space at the JamFactory in Adelaide.  Her vessels can be found at stockists including JamFactory, Potier, and Made By Others. She also has an online shop, and is happy to receive sales enquiries / take orders via email.

We asked Susan a few questions about her work and her process.  Here is what she had to say! -

Tell us a little bit about your background – what did you study, did you always want to be a ceramicist and what led you to what you’re doing now?

I actually started my career in retail, becoming a buyer for a department store in my early twenties. Travel beckoned and I ended up living in the UK with my husband for eight years. During this time I was doing various admin and temping jobs. I took a year off and studied Art History in London. We moved to Bristol and it was here I began ceramics when I enrolled in some night classes.

Throughout my life I had always taken various creative classes (painting, drawing, even millinery at one stage) but there was something about the tactile nature of clay that drew me in. When we moved back to Australia in 2006 I knew I wanted to pursue ceramics further. I took more classes, and in 2009 was accepted into the JamFactory Associate Program. From that point I was involved with ceramics full-time. It was at JamFactory where I started to develop my work and my style.

How would you describe your work / aesthetic?

Clean and functional. Quiet. I look at Danish design a lot. I am currently really interested in colour relationships. I use 13 colours and it is fascinating to see how they can change depending on what I pair them with. For instance I have a pink that is quite warm when next to orange, but really bright when put with yellow or navy blue.

What processes are involved in the creation of your ceramics?

I work with porcelain clay which is thrown on a potter’s wheel. I throw on a batt – a piece of wood attached to the wheel head so when the piece is finished, I lift the batt off so I don’t touch or warp the work. Clay, particularly porcelain, has a memory – any bumps or twists, even if you correct them, can often come back during the firing process.

After it is thrown and dry to a ‘leather hard’ state, I put the piece back on the wheel upside down and trim it. This takes off all the excess clay and it is here where I refine the profile and finish off the base. I then add handles to my cups and jugs by extruding long pieces of clay, hand shaping them and attaching.

Once bone dry the work is bisque fired. This gets the work to a stable enough condition to be handled and glazed.

Glazing is my big thing. I spend a lot of time glazing – up to a week depending on how much work I have! A common glazing method is to hold the piece with tongs and dip it in the glaze but that produces drips and runs on the work. As my glaze contains colour stains all of these drips show up so I have to glaze the inside and outside separately. I mask the outside and dip the piece to glaze the inside, holding it upside down until it is dry. I then clean up the outside, wait for it to dry and dip the outside by holding the piece from the inside. I dip it until the glaze comes right to the top of the piece, stopping just before it can run over the rim and inside the vessel. Once glazed, the work is loaded into an electric kiln and fired to 1280 degrees. After firing I then polish the base and (unglazed) rim with a diamond pad!

(re)Collected Hues - by Susan Frost
Council of Objects
248 Grenfell street
East End, Adelaide

On now until 25th May 2013.  

Council of Objects are also hosting a special celebration this Saturday May 11th – 11.00am – 4.00pm.  Pop in for a cuppa, view Susan’s exhibition and find the perfect gift for Mother’s Day!

Handcrafted ceramics by  Susan Frost.   Photos by Grant Hancock.

Handcrafted ceramics by Susan Frost.   Photos by Grant Hancock.

The Bondi terrace home of Jodi and Brendan York.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room.  Light by TVRM Lighting.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Kitchen.  Splashback tiles from Jatana Interiors. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

For all the big budget drop dead gorgeous dream homes we showcase here, I always like to ensure there’s a good balance of equally lovely yet somewhat more accessible homes – from cute ‘n crafty spaces, to cheerfully chaotic family homes, and of course the ever elusive first home buyers’ home!  Today’s sweet Sydney pad falls into this category – it’s a  wonderful first home for industrious young couple Jodi and Brendan York, and will soon evolve to accommodate a new addition, as Jodi is expecting her first baby in the coming months! (congratulations guys!)

Jodi is an architect, and like any young designer, she leapt at the opportunity to design her very own home.  After purchasing their terrace in Bondi Junction 2.5 years ago, Jodi and Brendan (an accountant) wasted no time re-designing the home, and planning a significant renovation and re-build.  ’We actually demolished most of the house and started over’ Jodi recalls. Her design retained the front façade and external walls, but almost the entire internal structure was gutted, from the front bedroom back to the rear lane.

With a vision to maximise light and natural airflow in this narrow space, Jodi opted for a ‘New York’ style loft inspired design.  ’We wanted to expose as many raw materials as we could, also creating an open plan living format’ explains Jodi. Other priorities including maximising storage (a common challenge in Sydney’s narrow terraces), and the ability to move furniture around to accommodate entertaining (the dining table and island are on wheels!).

Since moving in in April last year, Jodi and Brendan have loved reacquainting themselves with their slick new space. ‘We love the area and the natural light’ says Jodi.  ’We have noticed in the last 12 months, we spend so much more time at home since moving here – rain, hail or shine’.  Jodi and Brendan also love entertaining, and the open layout downstairs really encourages this –  ’we have people over often, and really enjoy sharing the space with friends and family’ says Jodi.

Huge thanks to Jodi and Brendan for sharing their home with us today, and best of luck with the bump!

Looking from kitchen through dining to front of house. Table made by Brendan’s brother, Kartell Masters Chairs by Philippe Starck.  ’Guerilla knitting’ on stair balustrade an by a close friend of Jodi’s. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Dining room.  Table made by Brendan’s brother, Kartell Masters Chairs by Philippe Starck.  Bowls on table by Mud Australia.  Photo – Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Living room details.  Artwork by artist ‘Kelly’ who has a tenancy at Mitchell Rd Auction House.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Master bedroom.  Artwork – a tapestry replicating Jodi and Brendan’a original marriage certificate, handmade by Jodi’s grandma.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Bathroom.  Tiles from Jatana Interiors. Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Front door – stencilled by Jodi and Brendan.  ’We bought a stencil online and spent a few days creating this!’ says Jodi.  Chest of drawers – Ikea, with a variety of custom knobs picked up at Anthropologie in the US.  White plaster piece sitting on chest of drawers – a section of the original archway.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

Exterior raised terrace garden.  Screen by Laser Cut Screens.  Photo - Sean Fennessy, production – Lucy Feagins / The Design Files.

After last month’s earnest salad fest, we thought we better balance things out with a month of sugary and slightly silly desserts by amazing Sydney based food blogger Theresa Nguyen of The Gook!  Throughout May Theresa will bring us four inspired creative dessert ideas, kicking off today with her amazing edible tiny chocolate terrariums!  GENIUS!

Tiny Chocolate Terrariums.  Recipe by Theresa Nguyen / The Gook. Photos by Phu Tang, styling by Gemma Lush for The Design Files. Tray stylist’s own, spoon by Dinosaur Designs.

Take these out at any dinner party and you’ll receive an ohhh, followed by an ahhh, then a round of applause. Well, that’s what happened when I brought these tiny (and edible) chocolate terrariums out for the dessert finale at a dinner party recently.

My guests were amazed. Little did they know, I actually didn’t spend that long making them. I call this a ‘not-too-much-fuss, maximum-wow dessert’.

Making the terrariums is pretty easy. The soil is so simple. It uses my trusty flourless chocolate cake, which only takes 45 minutes to make from start to finish. It’s super moist, decadent and can even be made a day in advance, too.

The only real fiddly bit is cutting the acetate, bending it round and securing it over the cake rounds. The planting is as easy as poking the soil with a skewer and sliding the micro herbs in. I’m lucky enough to have some wild fennel growing locally, so I have used the gorgeous flowers in my tiny chocolate terrariums.

Aside from looking the part, they taste pretty damn good too. These terrariums will keep in the fridge for a few hours, but do bring them to room temperature prior to serving – the soil will be gooey and melt in the mouth.

Ingredients

For the tiny chocolate terrariums

1 Flourless Chocolate Cake (recipe below)
Edible micro herbs or flowers
Choc chips (optional)
1 x A3 sheet of acetate

For the flourless chocolate cake

125g dark chocolate, 70% cocoa
125g butter
¾ cup caster sugar
3 eggs
½ cup cocoa (no need to sift)
Pinch of salt

You will also need

1 x circle cookie cutter (mine was 5cm wide)
Measuring tape
Scissors
Ruler
Clear Tape

Method (Makes eight edible terrariums)

Tiny Chocolate Terrariums.  Recipe by Theresa Nguyen / The Gook. Photos by Phu Tang, styling by Gemma Lush for The Design Files.

For the flourless chocolate cake

Before we can assemble our terrariums we need create the perfect faux soil base. I use an adapted flourless chocolate cake recipe from French Ties by Jane Webster for its perfectly moist and decadent consistency.

To create these bases, be sure to preheat your oven at 180 degrees, then melt butter and chocolate over a double boiler. Double boiling is a process where you place your ingredients, in this case chocolate and butter, in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of water on a low-medium heat. Chocolate can seize if heated too quickly, so watch the chocolate carefully and as soon as the chocolate and butter has melted take the bowl off the heat.

Once the chocolate/butter combination is off the heat, whisk in sugar, then add the three eggs and lightly mix to combine. Mix in the cocoa and a pinch of salt, then pour your mixture into a 22cm spring-form cake tin lined with baking paper and bake for 25-30 minutes at 180 degrees.

This cake can be made a day in advance and left it in the fridge, but be sure to bring the cake to room temperature before serving. It’s delicious with a dollop of double cream and some fresh berries.

Theresa Nguyen carefully assembles her terrariums!  Photos by Phu Tang, styling by Gemma Lush for The Design Files.

How to assemble your terrariums

To make your chocolate soil bases, cut circles out of the room temperature flourless chocolate cake using the cookie cutter and arrange on serving platter.

Make clear vases out of acetate to house your tiny chocolate terrarium. Measure the circumference of the cutter as this will denote the length of acetate required – you can make the height anything you want. Mark up and cut out your acetate rectangles. Create the clear vases by sticking together the short edges of the rectangular acetate with clear tape (overlap slightly). Set aside.

Start planting! Use a small skewer (or piece of dry spaghetti) to pierce the chocolate soil, then insert your micro herbs. Repeat until you are happy with the arrangement. Add a few chocolate rocks by using the choc chips.

Carefully slide your acetate cylinders over your terrarium arrangement. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

This recipe makes eight tiny chocolate terrariums. They can be made a few hours in advance and kept in the fridge, but be sure to bring the tiny chocolate terrariums to room temperature before serving.

MASSIVE thanks to Theresa for joining us with her ‘Sweet ‘n Silly’ desserts for the month of May!  For more recipes from Theresa, do check out her own brilliant food blog - The Gook!

Tiny Chocolate Terrariums.  Plate and spoon by Dinosaur Designs. Recipe by Theresa Nguyen / The Gook. Photos by Phu Tang, styling by Gemma Lush for The Design Files.