Editor’s Letter
While this correspondent is in a constant battle against the compilation of unwanted curves on his silhouette (hors d’oeuvres and champagne, I’m looking at you), the design world seems to be infatuated with anything but the boxy. From jellybean shapes to spheres and sensational squiggles, we are hastily being transported through the arched or round windows eschewing the square (that’s a Play School reference I never knew I’d need). And, not so quietly, I’m absolutely loving it. I recall years ago during a design studio session at university being barked at for creating spaces with curved lines before mastering the straight. Read into that what you will. I’ve had a fear of seductive shapes and curvaceous surfaces ever since. Free of those shackles, you only need to flick back and take another admiring gaze at the cover of this issue – the part futuristic, part flashback space designed by Jacques Hervouet – to illustrate my train of thought. See more of this cover-star Parisian paradise on p86.
This fluid approach to design, of course, is nothing new. From the carved-out caves of the Stone Age to the Greek and Roman architecture of the gods – plus curvy occurrences in between and onward – today’s influences are merely a snapshot of how design is regularly in a dynamic state of flux, renewal and reinvention. And how truly fabulous and exciting is that?
Being ahead of the curve is a solid aspiration – it’s rather apt for this issue – and that’s exactly what you’ll discover of the designers and their achievements in our breathtaking kitchen and bathroom edit. Here, you’ll find a hefty 10 of each space that all inject new and wonderful life into the hardest working rooms in the house.
A few weeks ago now, the folk at King Living serendipitously united me with former-former Belle editor Neale Whitaker (pictured left). Look, I imagine it’s always a bit nervy stepping up to someone whose shoes you’re now seen to be ‘filling’ – even at a size 13 foot, I certainly was – but Neale was a charming, encouraging and supportive delight. Catch his design tips for Silestone on p153 and the King Living event snaps on p205.
We are thrilled to have once again collaborated with David Jones, this time on its beautiful Spring 2019 Home Edit that you will have received with this issue. Please enjoy shopping this showcase of stylish pieces – and the entire issue for that matter. It’s a feast for the eyes and a beauty to bookmark.
This neatly trimmed garden detail by Joanne Green (left) is just one of the living vignettes you’ll find in our latest tome, Australian Landscape Designers. Shop now at magshop.com.au