Editor’s letter
This edition of Vogue Living that you’re holding is one I am extremely proud of — an issue purely dedicated to Australian design and the creatives that shape it. Now more than ever, Australians have a greater appreciation for this incredible country we live in, and so this special production shines a spotlight on the diverse talent and spectacular homes that we have right here on our own shores.
I’m also excited to introduce our inaugural VL50 — a list compiled by myself and the VL team recognising the top interior designers, architects, makers and artists across our remarkable design landscape (page 47). The line-up is a mix of emerging creatives and industry heavyweights — and the one common tie binding them together is that they are all capturing our attention in 2021. It wasn’t an easy task, but it’s an annual initiative I want to continue as VL’s way of celebrating the creatives making waves in our design scene and beyond.
And then there are the homes. From our cover star, Perth-born pop sensation Troye Sivan’s Melbourne retreat designed by Flack Studio (page 88) to the heritage family home in Sydney thoughtfully updated by globally recognised local design darling Blainey North (page 100), the variety of styles on show highlights our nation’s expansive talent pool. Architect Neil Durbach from Durbach Block Jaggers Architects and interior designer Sibella Court have crafted an apartment worthy of the most perfect view of Sydney Harbour (page 130) and YSG’s Yasmine Ghoniem casts a tonal spell upon an old corner store now home in Sydney (page 118). There’s another striking project by Luigi Rosselli Architects and Arent&Pyke, breathing new life into a tired villa (page 140). And then there’s the beachside Sydney home by Akin Atelier (page 110) — modern yet playful, it captures the laid-back lifestyle we’re renowned for around the world.
One of the questions I get asked by colleagues, readers and friends most is “Where can I buy…”, which is why we’re sharing our little black book of design stores for your shopping pleasure (page 165).
I hope you enjoy this special edition as much as we have loved putting it together. It’s also one of the last issues I edit before I prepare for the birth of my second child. For me, this is a collector’s issue, one that bookmarks what Australian design is right now and the inspiring movers and shakers of our thriving creative community.