Melbourne is a top design precinct and is one of the few remaining cities in the world where trams still service its population. While taking a ride along the city streets, you may spot the collection of Victorian-era buildings among the modern high-rises. If you venture deeper into the heart of Melbourne, you will find yourself marvelling at the hidden gems it has to offer — from its eclectic mix of pristine beaches and world-class wildlife parks to designer fashion boutiques and captivating museums. Melbourne central is home to more than 200 shops, restaurants and charming cafés. Here you will engage in the premier fashion culture and enjoy the shopping experience of a lifetime. The Melbourne Observation Deck offers you unforgettable views as you watch the constant energy and movement of this exciting city from the tallest office building, the Rialto Towers. Federation Square embodies a unique and decadent silver design. This one-of-a-kind architecture commands an entire city block, giving it colossal appeal and offering fabulous shops and restaurants. Como House and Gardens is a mix of Australian Regency and classic Italianate architecture. This historic house is a main attraction within the city, boasting one of Melbourne’s finest gardens, an inspiring historic mansion and an impressive collection of antique furniture. The Lanes and Arcades Shopping Tour explores Melbourne’s beautiful laneways and shopping spots, and reveals the city’s amazing lofts and basements. Take a day to uncover some of Melbourne’s hidden secrets: trendy street art, hole-in-wall cafés and dynamic architecture. With a wealth of hidden design treasures, Melbourne offers something for everyone. A visit to this premiere city could never be a waste. You will accumulate and enjoy a plethora of design goodies.
unique ambience
The Copernico suspension designed by Carlotta de Bevilacqua is an intricate suspension lamp comprising nine concentric mobile ellipses from a single aluminium sheet. These elliptical forms are able to pivot on two different axes, allowing the 384 white LEDs to be directed to create numerous spatial configurations and light effects. This contemporary and unique piece is available nationally from Artemide. The Artemide Group is one of the global leaders of the residential illumination sector and high-end professionals.
For more information, contact Artemide on 1300 135 709 or visit www.artemide.com.au
new-age classic
Invite European history into your home with the Louis XV-style console. This timeless piece comes complete with a water-gilded rocaille decoration against a gesso-covered base and incorporates a copy of the 1745 Gazette French newspaper for a unique finish. The base is hand-carved in fruitwood and the shaped top is Portor — a northern- Italian stone. With a combination of traditional elements typical of the 18th century style, combined with the oversize fonts in the decoupage to give a contemporary twist, the piece radiates distinctive design. For the past 25 years, Drexel Design & Supply has specialised in reproducing European-period furniture that is a true reflection of the lasting style and beauty of the original pieces.
For more information, email Drexel Design & Supply at info@drexeldesign.com.au or visit www.drexeldesign.com.au
three levels of comfort
The Zanotta William sofa by Damian Williamson has three layers of comfort: a structural elastic bottom layer is under a central layer of foam polyurethane which is under the ultra-soft top layer of down cushions. A painted steel-base frame and polished aluminium alloy feet give sleek appeal. The sofa also features fully removable fabric or leather external covers. William is available in the classic twoor three-seater versions or as a modular sofa for both linear and corner solutions, perfect for any size home. For more information, visit www.spacefurniture.com.au
outdoor paradise
Belgian brand Manutti always aims to be innovative, both in terms of design and the use of exclusive materials. The Zendo range from Manutti is an infinitely adjustable lounge so that every occasion can be complemented with a unique atmosphere. The cubic seating units are composed using water-repellent materials identical to those found on the most beautiful yachts. Three different colours and fabrics are available, including imitation white leather, black Batyline® and a waterproof beige nautic fabric. Create your paradise with Zendo, now available at Cosh Living.
For more information, visit www.coshliving.com.au
sophisticated
This distinctive Christian Cole bedroom suite is crafted from 100 per cent solid 35mm-thick recycled messmate timber. It features intricate hand-inlayed fossilised red gum timber. This unique suite features dovetail joins and superior Blumotion pushcatch drawer runners. It has been finished with Danish oil by hand. Christian Cole Furniture has a strong philosophy of sustainable practices in every aspect of its operations, from sourcing and preparing the materials used to designing, constructing, finishing and maintaining pieces of furniture. The business reflects a culture of sustainability as well as a respect for the beauty that is found in nature, and the individual character and high level of craftsmanship that goes into each handmade piece.
For more information, contact Christian Cole Furniture on 03 9350 3372 or visit www.christiancolefurniture.com.au
grand design
Chateau Couture introduces boiseries reminiscent of Europe’s grand chateaux of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Featuring superb craftsmanship, these elaborately carved, highly decorative pieces bring the opulent spirit of the royal courts and the splendour of Versailles to Australia for the first time. With limitless application potential, boiseries can adorn wall panels, doors, pelmets and joinery to create a sophisticated European interior. Contact Chateau Couture to arrange an exclusive viewing. For more information, contact Chateau Couture on 0400 562 016 or visit www.chateaucouture.com.au
brilliant and beautiful
Inspired by nature and created with the latest technology, Brilliante evokes the natural appearance of precious marble, expressed through the superior technical qualities of ceramics. Brilliante is manufactured using a revolutionary production process, resulting in lightweight, easy-to-lay large-format tiles with an imperceptible flexibility and an ultra-shiny surface. These beautiful tiles are only 5.5mm thick and are also available in large formats. They are rectified, which means they can be laid with minimal grout, creating stunning and expansive walls. The sophisticated striped marble texture with a contemporary feel, featuring mosaics and feature tiles to match, makes this collection characteristic of the quality and style of exclusive Italian manufacturers.
For more information, contact Erneste Tiles on 03 9359 0533 or visit www.erneste.com.au
