clean chic and cheap! Contemporary Australian style on a budget!
So my style is definitely more down the transitional style (if anything it’s leaning more traditional than contemporary) but! I do know my way around that classic Australian look a lot of people are after. Clean lines, light-filled spaces with warm cosy tones throughout. But, this style can be expensive! I’m here to show you a way to get that dreamy Aussie look for less! Because I know for a fact that a lot of you who love this style are either renting or expecting and we haven’t got time to commit to a place we’ll be in for 18mnths max. Or! have a little one crawling around the last thing we need is a gorgeous expensive vessel come crashing down.
Things to look out for in this style;
light coloured timber
Streamline, minimal furniture
Warm whites, creams beiges and if you introduce colour, its olives, rusts, terracotta
Pull back, less is more in this style.
Tropical plants - Monstera, Bird of Paradise vibes
Style origins
When we think about Australian contemporary trend, we adopt from the following core styles
Scandinavian - Coastal - Japanese Minimalism - Contemporary - Mid Century
Stores that are Core Australian Aesthetic
JARDAN
Countryroad
Designstuff
Sarah Ellison
Life Interiors
These stores range from high end to premium price points. but the best/worst thing about Australian contemporary is that you can achieve the look for seriously less. Which is why I would only recommend you grab some core pieces like a gorgeous sofa, armchair and/or dining set if you really want to. Otherwise, stick to the more lower-end items and go in later with some small decor bits from these brands to elevate and make it feel more luxe.
Affordable options
So now we have the basics down let’s go ahead and have a look at what’s available and what I’d recommend for those of you starting out in this realm. Use these mood boards as your bouncing off point to build your space from the ground up. Once you have these pieces you can then go in and opt. to purchase some unique pieces that reflect you and what you want to spend money on be it colour, sculpture and artwork.
Bonus Tip;
Spend money on small home decor bits and bobs from brands you love but are on the pricier side. More affordable pieces that make a mark are; tea-towels, serve ware, trays and cushions. They instantly trick a visitor into thinking your whole home is high end.
I don’t see any issue in wanting your space to feel expensive on a budget. Especially in times where you’re moving around or expecting a little one. Or! even just wanting the space you dream of but feels out of reach. Start with these and just get started. Make your space feel like a home and go from there!
LIVING ROOM
Do you feel calmer already? Feel the Aus. Contemporary style taking over. The consistent colour palette and materials instantly elevate and make your space effortlessly flow and feel connected. Like I said earlier, you want colour? it’ll cost you. Simple. I feel like you get the house feeling good and consistent and then go in and throw in those gorgeous home decor pieces you can splurge on. Colour comes in plants, cushions, artwork etc.
Cant wait to come over for a cuppa!
Until next time :)