Category: LIFESTYLE

Add another $100k to your home’s sale price

Living room house

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Posted: 08/04/2024

Selling your home is not just about putting it on the market and hoping for the best. It’s about crafting an irresistible offer that captivates potential buyers the moment they step through the door. With the right strategy and a touch of finesse, you can not only sell your home but also significantly increase its value. Imagine adding a staggering $100,000 to your selling price, transforming a simple transaction into a monumental win. In this guide, we’ll walk you through proven, actionable steps to elevate your property’s appeal and worth. From minor tweaks to major overhauls, you’ll learn how to present your home in a way that mesmerises buyers and drives up its value. Eric Wong, Founder of Lucca gave us these tips on how to make it happen: 1. Repainting Kitchen Cabinet Doors White The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and a bright, welcoming space can leave a lasting impression on buyers. Repainting outdated or worn cabinet doors white can instantly brighten the kitchen and give it a more modern feel without the need for a full renovation. White kitchens appeal to a wide range of buyers and can make your space feel larger and cleaner.  Cost estimate: Less than $3k 2. Repaint Strong Coloured Walls into Neutral Colours While your vibrant red dining room or your cozy green living room might perfectly reflect your personality, such strong colours can be a turn-off for potential buyers. Repainting walls in neutral colours like beige or off-white can make your home appear more… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE

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A subterranean bar and dining room in Queenstown NZ

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Updated: 08/04/2024

Queenstown, New Zealand – Ayrburn, one of New Zealand’s most anticipated openings, invites guests to experience the precinct’s latest launch, The Barrel Room; an intimate underground wine cellar, piano bar, and dining room. Heroing a sophisticated offering of locally sourced dishes, and an extensive wine list including Ayrburn’s own curated range of wine, the sultry venue is a place to enjoy wine, dance on the tables, and tell tales long into the night. Buried underground, guests are invited to follow the candlelight, past the grand piano to the wine cellar lined with 56 barrels, setting the scene for the opulent ambience that follows. With the ability to host 50 guests for an intimate candle-lit soiree through to larger lively late-night gatherings and everything in between, the Barrel Room is perfect for any occasion. Designers SA Studio and Alexander &CO were briefed to create a secret hideaway for bespoke experiences that deliver both escapism and excellence, reflecting the heritage of the surrounding precinct whilst maintaining the atmosphere of an authentic wine cave reminiscent of those found in France and Italy. Visual Stylist Alexandra Watts and scenic artist Andy King were engaged to ensure the walls and flooring of the new build venue felt genuine, using their set-design experience to create a space that looks as though it could have been an original feature of the 160-year-old property. Beyond a bespoke steel gate by local metalworkers, hand-forged with a custom designed Ayrburn motif, guests will discover a sanctuary filled with an eclectic mix of modern and vintage… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

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There’s a new high tea at El Primo Sanchez in Sydney

High tea El Primo tequila

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Posted: 05/04/2024

High tea, traditionally an elegant affair reserved for the afternoons, often conjures images of fine china, delicate pastries, and an air of sophistication that feels a step removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Historically, it was seen as a somewhat staid and elderly pursuit, reminiscent of cosy gatherings with grandparents, not unlike how Whiskey on the Rocks has been pegged as a drink for the older generation, and Cosmopolitans have started to seem a touch passé. Yet, in an era where blending tradition with contemporary sensibilities is more en vogue than ever, an innovative transformation is afoot. Breaking away from the conventional, Jose Cuervo, in partnership with Abbie Chatfield — a figure renowned for her challenge against puritanical norms — is pioneering the introduction of High TeaQuila. This refreshing twist on the classic high tea experience is set to redefine social gatherings. Set against the vibrant backdrop of El Primo Sanchez, High TeaQuila presents an opportunity to trade the customary tea pots for tequila cocktails, shedding the rigidity of yesteryear for a more laid-back vibe. With Jose Cuervo’s storied legacy as the most ancient tequila brand globally, this event marks a significant departure from its traditional roots, inviting attendees to loosen up and immerse themselves in this novel concept. Those keen to be part of this revolutionary blend of tradition and modernity can secure their spot by booking tickets on TryBooking. The event, open to the public, unfolds over the weekend of the 20th and 21st of April, at El Primo Sanchez,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

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New gallery in Sydney: A Secondary Eye opens

Sydney art gallery men

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Updated: 17/04/2024

Sydney, Australia is set to welcome a profound addition to its art scene as A Secondary Eye announces the launch of a new gallery space nestled in the arts district of Woollahra. Opening its doors on Friday, 3 May 2024, this new venture promises a fresh perspective on Australian Indigenous and contemporary art. Founded in 2020 by Jesse-Jack De Deyne, a seasoned specialist in the secondary market for Australian Indigenous art, and Boris Cornelissen, formerly of Sotheby’s London and Hong Kong, A Secondary Eye has quickly established itself as a key player in the art world. Their focus on developing the secondary market for art and collectibles in Australia has led to the exhibition and sale of works by prominent artists like Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Sidney Nolan, and Fred Williams, among others. The gallery’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with several pieces entering the collections of Australia’s most prestigious art institutions. Strategically located in Queen Street, a spot historically linked with the crème de la crème of secondary market art dealers, the new gallery is poised to continue its tradition of excellence. The inaugural exhibition will shine a spotlight on Rover Thomas, a luminary and trailblazer in the Australian art landscape. Known for his significant influence on the East Kimberley school of painting, Thomas’s works are lauded for their modernist abstraction and profound connection to ancestral land and Indigenous life. The exhibition, titled “Rover: Master of the Kimberley”, marks the first solo presentation of Thomas’s work in Sydney in nearly two decades. It will showcase… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, SYDNEY

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Yarraville Victoria Hotel in Melbourne is back open

Victoria Hotel Melbourne

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Posted: 05/04/2024

The iconic Victoria Hotel in Yarraville has proudly reopened its doors, unveiling a much-anticipated $2.5 million renovation. This transformation introduces a brand-new beer garden and a delightful children’s play area, enhancing its reputation as a family-friendly destination in the region. For the first time in its history, the pub now boasts an expansive beer garden that can accommodate up to 170 guests. This newly designed space features comfortable picnic table seating among lush greenery, a dedicated outdoor bar, and an impressive children’s playground. These additions solidify The Victoria Hotel’s status as the go-to venue for family-friendly dining in the community, designed with the needs and desires of its patrons in mind. Venue Manager Anthony Cook expressed his excitement about the renovation, stating, “It’s exciting to finally open the new beer garden and kids’ play area for our patrons. This well-deserved renovation brings modernised features, tailored spaces for all ages, and so much more to our local, meaning it will continue to be a space for all to enjoy.” In addition to the beer garden, the renovation brings a refreshed bistro and a brand-new adjoining kids’ play area, replete with interactive features to keep the young ones engaged. The children’s area is a miniature representation of Yarraville itself, including a Yarraville Sun Theatre feature wall, an interactive train & kiosk, reading nooks, tech corners, drawing stations, a soft play area, and much more. The culinary experience at The Victoria Hotel has also been elevated, with a refreshed menu featuring delicious share-style plates, pizzas, and pub classics,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

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Momentous moment in art at National Gallery London

Art National Gallery

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Posted: 05/04/2024

In 2025, the art world will witness a remarkable event at the National Gallery as “Siena: The Rise of Painting 1300?1350” opens its doors in spring, marking the 200th anniversary of the institution. This exhibition promises an unprecedented reunion of paintings by some of the most celebrated Italian artists of the 14th century, artworks that have been scattered across the globe for centuries. Highlighting this unique collection are masterpieces in gold ground, many originally part of larger compositions, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the innovative spirit of Western painting tradition from this era. The spotlight of the exhibition is the coming together of several panels from the revolutionary double-sided altarpiece, the Maestà, painted by Duccio di Buoninsegna for the cathedral in Siena. Recognized as the first double-sided altarpiece in Western art, this narrative shift in art will be showcased along with other significant pieces from the ensemble. Notably, the National Gallery’s panels from the Maestà will be reunited with works like “Christ and the Woman of Samaria” from the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid, and “The Calling of the Apostles Peter and Andrew” from the National Gallery of Art, Washington DC. Another focal point is the reunion of the Orsini Polyptych by Simone Martini, a folding piece created for private devotion, likely for Cardinal Napoleone Orsini. Dispersed between prestigious institutions – the Louvre in Paris, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, and the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin – the exhibition will bring together all six panels for a rare presentation. Besides these reunifications, the exhibition… Read More

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

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Melbourne Theatre Company’s new show: The Almighty Sometimes

Women theatre Melbourne

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Posted: 05/04/2024

Kendall Feaver’s illuminating portrait of a mother-daughter relationship, The Almighty Sometimes, will grace the stage of Southbank Theatre, with previews beginning on 15 April. This piece unfurls with biting humour and fierce honesty, a poignant coming-of-age story that meticulously explores the tribulations of adolescence entwined with the complexities of growing up under the shadow of mental illness. Authored by the talented Australian playwright Kendall Feaver, the play has received acclaim and recognition, winning the Judges Award at the 2015 Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting – Europe’s premier playwriting competition. It has also secured both the Victorian and New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards, earmarking Feaver as a distinguished voice in contemporary theatre. In a new production helmed by Hannah Goodwin, audiences will see Nadine Garner (known for ABC’s Savage River) and Max McKenna (Muriel’s Wedding The Musical) bringing to life the roles of Renee and Anna, the mother-daughter duo at the heart of this narrative. They are joined by Louisa Mignone (The Twelve) and Karl Richmond (The Inheritance), adding to the play’s dynamic ensemble. The narrative arcs around 18-year-old Anna, who discovers her old stories, unveiling a vibrant imagination that seems alien yet thrilling. This discovery becomes the catalyst for Anna’s quest to redefine her identity beyond the mental health label that has dominated her life. Yet, this quest is met with resistance from her mother, her boyfriend, and even her therapist, setting the stage for intense familial and personal conflict. Feaver’s script resonates with the ongoing discussions surrounding mental health, capturing the heart of these… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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Rugby on the water at Sydney’s Darling Harbour

Sydney water rugby sport

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Posted: 05/04/2024

This April, Sydney’s iconic Darling Harbour is set to host the adrenaline-pumping BSc Energy Aqua Rugby Festival, Australia’s only floating rugby tournament, for its thrilling third season. From Thursday 11th to Saturday 13th April, a 30 x 30 meter floating pontoon will become the battleground for a unique three-day rugby fiesta unlike any other. With an intriguing mix of sport and spectacle, the festival promises rugby action with a twist — players battling it out on a floating pitch, with the Sydney Harbour waters waiting to receive anyone who dares to take the plunge off the pitch. The Aqua Rugby Festival is not just about the sport; it’s an event that encapsulates the Australian spirit of camaraderie and celebration. Sydneysiders and visitors alike can witness a star-studded lineup of players showcasing their skills, making spectacular dives and crash-tackles, all in pursuit of scoring that elusive try. This quirky version of rugby not only pays homage to the traditional sport but also brings a fresh, exhilarating twist that is sure to captivate Australians and visitors. For those seeking an elevated experience, the festival offers an exclusive VIP package. Imagine watching the game from a luxurious cabana sponsored by Bollinger Champagne, with bottomless champagne and a dedicated staff member at your beck and call. This ultra-luxe VIP area is the perfect vantage point for indulging in the delectable offerings from Nick’s Seafood, all while soaking in the best views of the action. Priced at $440 per person, it’s an opportunity to feel like rugby royalty, even if… Read More

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

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Inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival launches this May

Pink cocktail

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Posted: 05/04/2024

Australia’s spirits scene is on the brink of an exhilarating elevation with the announcement of the inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival. Set to unfold from 10-12 May 2024 at the splendid Overseas Passenger Terminal, Sydney Cove, this landmark event promises to be a confluence of spirits enthusiasts, industry experts, and world-renowned brands. With over 148 spirit brands on display, the festival is shaping up to be a monumental celebration of craftsmanship and culture in the world of spirits. Among the festival’s highlights are two new masterclasses designed to intrigue and delight. The first is an exclusive exploration of Planteray Sealander Rum, led by the distinguished Grazia di Franco. Participants will be taken on a flavorful voyage through the unique rum profiles of Barbados, Mauritius, and Fiji, uncovering the nuanced tastes and traditions that define each. The second is a celebratory Espresso Martini masterclass on Mother’s Day, offered by Kendor Distillery. This engaging session offers a joyful blend of coffee culture and cocktail craft, making it an ideal gift to share with the remarkable mothers in your life. The Sydney Spirits Festival is more than a gathering; it is an immersive experience that extends beyond tastings and masterclasses. Industry legends, including Tasmanian whisky pioneer Bill Lark and bourbon aficionado Gee David from Buffalo Trace Distillery, will share their insights and stories, enriching the festival with their profound knowledge and passion for spirit-making. The event also caters to the gastronomically adventurous, with an array of international cuisines and unique offerings like HUGO Vodka tastings paired with a Caviar… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

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Jac+Jack have a new range of quilts with Two Good Co.

quilt blanket jac JackJJ TGC B1G1 Blankets 4

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Posted: 05/04/2024

Social enterprise Two Good Co. has once again partnered with the esteemed fashion brand, Jac+Jack, to unveil a special edition quilted blanket collection aimed at providing warmth and comfort to those who need it the most. This remarkable collaboration, marking their second liaison, continues to champion an innovative “buy one, give one” scheme. With every purchase from this line, an identical blanket is donated to a woman finding solace in a shelter, in a heartwarming attempt to extend support and nurturing to those in distress. Rob Caslick, the visionary founder and CEO of Two Good Co., passionately expressed the foundational belief underpinning this initiative, stating, “We believe that love and respect can change the course of someone’s life. All of our Good Things are designed to remind women that they are worthy and loved, and this collection is no exception.” This sentiment is wholeheartedly endorsed by their partners at Jac+Jack, with co-founder Lisa Dempsey adding a personal touch by sharing her hopes for the recipients, emphasizing that these blankets should serve as a symbol of care, equality, and the sheer importance of every individual. The collection draws inspiration from the traditional Indian Razai quilts, employing the unique technique of Kantha to stitch together layers of incredibly soft, muslin-like cotton, ensuring optimal warmth. The choice of an exaggerated quilting pattern alongside a classic colour palette of pale grey and off-white, characteristic of Jac+Jack, infuses a modern twist into these time-honoured methods. Each blanket is presented in a quirky, dip-dyed muslin bag available in either lilac or… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, INTERIORS, RETAIL, STYLE

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