Cruise into Christmas…

The countdown is on, and you’re feeling calm. Right?! The busiest part of the season is here, with back-to-back holiday parties, school functions and endless shopping lists to get through, but just think of the break to come. Take a deep breath, sit down and flick through this issue for ideas and inspiration to keep things simple, but special. If you’re entertaining this summer, you could do worse than follow the lead of the family behind the Robert Gordon pottery business. We visited them in Victoria and captured some gorgeous moments (and recipes) to inspire your own relaxed lunch. Find the story on page 140. We also have personalised ideas for setting the table and great last-minute gifts for those Secret Santa dilemmas. Just to keep things practical, we’ve also included a feature on the best fridges for those who love to entertain on page 120.

I’ll admit I’m looking forward to an end-of-year getaway, inspired by the coastal homes in this issue. Our cover home in Shoal Bay, NSW, was built by Lauren and Michael Charge as a holiday house for their family as well as a rental property. You really couldn’t help but relax, faced with that view! Find it on page 68. We also take a peek inside a new glass and steel home on the NSW South Coast, enhanced by a beautiful pool and garden. Turn to page 106 to read the story of the build. And for more beachy, boho style (but this time in the suburbs) we go inside the latest renovation by the Three Birds gang – friends who’ve turned to renovating and made a successful business of it.

I hope you enjoy this issue, and the end of 2018. From the team at Inside Out, we wish you all the very best for Christmas. We’ll see you on the other side!