LIVING LUXE

Acouple of weeks ago, in desperate need of some ‘me-time’, I did something indulgent; I checked out of my life for a few days, and into a posh hotel. Better still, I was upgraded to an executive suite, which meant I had not just one room but four, all to myself, and a bathroom the size of my kitchen at home! It wasn’t just the scale of the bathroom though. It was complete with luxury finishes: a rain shower, a deep inset bath with spa jets, and a double sink – pretty much the dream.

Time and time again, we hear homeowners talk about wanting to bring that holiday feeling home – not just the sense of serenity, but the finishes, textures and fittings. Nowhere more than in bathroom design are hotels driving this luxurious look, and it inspired our Dream Bathrooms special (from page 213), although to be honest, the team also simply wanted to showcase some really gorgeous projects. These spaces are the ultimate escape at home – no need to check in!

Now I have to tell you another quick story, about a feature that had us all in tears – of joy, of exhaustion. Home Beautiful’s amazing style team, Rachel Peters and Tilly Roberts, led by our creative director, Imogene Abady, went on location for days and, as they do every month, poured everything they have into creating a different style of dream. This month, it’s ‘To The Manor Born’ (from page 34), starring equine stunner David (pictured below left), a visual feast of decorating and entertaining. Please read it, and fall in love with it, just as we have. We’re all incredibly proud of it.

My other favourite story this month is quite the opposite in spirit, but no less beautiful for that: our Creative Collection. Amanda and Andrew of Church Farm General Store in northern NSW work on the land to produce beautiful soaps and food, and give back to their community. Read their inspiring story, from page 22.

I hope, like me, you find something to fall in love with this month!