French pop-up, La Louisiane, is returning to the Adelaide CBD as a permanent venue, serving up Parisian ambiance and culinary excellence at the restaurant’s previous address at 89 King William Street.
The vibe of the permanent fixture is refined and sophisticated and promises to transport diners to the romantic streets of Paris. “We are very excited to present the next chapter of La Louisiane,” says Alexis Besseau, co-founder and visionary behind La Louisiane. “We want to continue to bring a bit of France to the city of Adelaide and push the experience further, showcasing new classic French dishes that aim to transport our guests to Paris for an evening.”
To celebrate the restaurant’s return, La Louisiane will host Forever, La Lou, a two-week dining experience that will see guests greeted with mini martinis on arrival, as well as a roaming cavier cart, limited premium menu items, tableside experiences, and live jazz.
To celebrate Gelato Messina’s Adelaide arrival, the acclaimed gelatissimo has joined forces with Bottega Bandito to create a selection of mouth-watering Hot Cross Bun Gelato Sandos – available exclusively over the Easter long weekend!
Get stuck into a Gianduia X Triple Choc Hot Cross Bun (a hazelnut and chocolate blend – think Nutella, but better – on a bun jam-packed with milk, dark and white chocolate chunks). Or try the Pistachio Praline X Italian Fruit and Nut Bianco (fior di latte gelato with white chocolate and pistachio fudge and pistachio praline on a soft bun filled with cranberries, sultanas and pistachios).
Gelato Messina’s unique flavours and Bottega’s famous freshly-baked hot cross buns – it’s the perfect match! Only available this Easter long weekend until sold out – available from Bottega Bandito’s Prospect location.
The team at Presenting Beautiful Homes elevate this property’s appeal with a carefully curated selection of bespoke furnishings and homewares. Photography: Arne Studio
The Home
The property was an architecturally designed country estate set on 9.5 hectares with five bedrooms, three bathrooms and three living areas boasting 360-degree views of the Adelaide Hills. The home comprises two wings – one for the master suite and the other for additional bedrooms – each separated by a large living, dining and kitchen space. A true entertainer’s dream.
The Brief
The brief for this home was refined and sophisticated. Balancing its contemporary finishes and unique features, like the imported French wallpaper, Calacatta marble kitchen benchtops and Italian terrazzo flooring, was extremely important. While the owners had created a luxurious feel they had also managed to maintain a warm and inviting atmosphere, which Presenting Beautiful Homes wanted to complement with their styling.
The Objective
The overall objective was to accentuate the home’s standout features to attract the interest of the target market and create a memorable first impression for potential buyers. To achieve this, Presenting Beautiful Homes carefully selected key furniture pieces, such as versatile occasional chairs, ideal for relaxation and entertainment. Thoughtful item placement played a pivotal role in maximising natural light and the perception of spaciousness. In addition, they curated an elegant colour palette featuring blacks, golds and deep earthy tones like browns, beiges and rusts. The introduction of various textures, including marble, bouclé and linen, ensured a blend of high-end, yet relaxed.
The Result
The goal was to make the property stand out in the competitive real estate market and appeal to the specific tastes and preferences of the target market, increasing its perceived value and likelihood of a successful sale. When the hard work and vision pays off for the owner – as it did with this home – it’s a win for all. The result was an extremely successful sales campaign that attracted significant media attention across Australia. Vendors Andrew and Peter stated, “after extensive renovations and a pending relocation to Sydney, it was crucial that we partnered with a company who knew how to complement our Adelaide Hills home…we knew Presenting Beautiful Homes were the best fit for the job.”
Meet the Hyde Park boutique rivalling fast fashion.
For more than three decades, family-run boutique Sydney Street has been a benchmark of style for Adelaide’s fashion set.
Located on Unley Road in a stately heritage building, the store, which stocks brands sourced from across Australia, USA and New Zealand, has been a fashion destination for generations of women.
“We focus on stocking pieces that are effortless, timeless and ageless,” says Jane Rodger, who co-owns the boutique with her husband Simon.
“We don’t chase fast fashion trends that disappear each season. Instead, we offer a range of high-quality designs that are wardrobe staples.”
More than 60 labels can be found at Sydney Street. “There’s something for everyone,” says Jane, who also has three decades of experience as a buyer and merchandiser.
Both mothers and daughters frequently find fashion that complements their individual tastes and styles; the Unley Road boutique (and online store) is Australia’s leading stockist of the famed Not Your Daughter’s Jeans (NYDJ), which are designed to flatter every figure and feature exclusive lift tuck technology that gives you that ‘look-one-size-smaller’ fit.
Sydney Street co-owner, Jane Rodger.
And, with the arrival of Spring, Sydney Street’s store floor has now transformed into a world of bold colour, prints and timeless designs. Some of the brands that have caught customers’ eyes this season include LOLA for their bohemian printed dresses, New Zealand label Loobies Story, the chic Melbourne-made brand 365 Days, and Adelaide’s own style maker, Brave + True.
“Sydney Street customers want affordable, versatile, stylish clothing that can be dressed up or worn casually with sneakers,” says Jane. “We listen to our customers’ needs and source items where possible. It’s a store for everyone.”
It’s this ability to tap into customers’ innate sense of style, coupled with the owners wealth of experience, that sees Adelaide’s fashion set return to the store season after season. And besides, Jane says helping people feel confident through clothes is what Sydney Street is all about.
“Success to me is happy customers that love the experience of shopping in our store, love the clothes they walk out with and want to come back again throughout the season.”
COMMUNITY FOCUSED
Sydney Street takes part in regular community events and philanthropic endeavours. Each year, the store hosts artwork during SALA and sponsors the Sturt Football Club’s Ladies Day, as well as holding a regular stall at the Gathered Markets. This October, the boutique is again taking part in the annual Frocktober fashion show fundraiser for ovarian cancer research, hosted at the Burnside Ballroom on October 29.
If tea isn’t Mum’s drink of choice, a cocktail might win her heart. Sign up for a gin cocktail-making class hosted by Next Door Cocktail Bar and Prohibition Liquor Co. where she’ll learn how to stir and shake and balance flavours. The cocktail recipes have been designed using the distillery’s small batch limited release Mum’s Gin. Along with a grazing platter to nibble on throughout the class, guests will also receive a 200ml bottled cocktail and recipes to try at home.
GET FANCY WITH A HIGH TEA
Mother’s Day is synonymous with high teas. That’s why you should treat mum to a decadent afternoon at Adelaide Arcade’s Tea Cielo Tearoom + Patisserie. From 2pm, indulge in sweet and savory treats, local wine, and organic teas while The Very Modern Jazz Band performs classic jazz tunes. Get Mum’s ticket fast, as bookings are limited.
For a high tea with a twist, take Mum to Marion Hotel’s G & Tea for a delicious afternoon tea featuring hot and cold treats. And what’s a party without a refreshing gin spritz in the hotel’s Secret Garden?
GO CASUAL WITH PUB GRUB
There are a heap of pubs across South Australia hosting a special feast for the woman of the day, but be quick – bookings are essential! Here are just few worthy Mother’s Day mentions:
Parkside Hotel (142 Glen Osmond Rd, Parkside)
Enjoy a bottomless brunch at Parkside Hotel with two hours unlimited mimosas, bellinis, spritzes, and sparkling wine paired with delicious savoury or sweet brunch boards.
Brighton Metro Hotel (466 Brighton Road)
Brighton Metro Hotel’s Charlie’s Diner will be serving up a delectable buffet breakfast from 8am to 9.30am. Best of all? Mums receive a complimentary glass of bubbles.
Hampstead Hotel (143 North East Road, Collinswood)
Opening early for Mums at 9am, families can enjoy a breakfast buffet at Hampstead Hotel, plus Mum gets a free mimosa on arrival.
The Unley (27 Unley Road, Parkside)
Show Mum you love her with your entire soul at The Unley’s Mother’s Day Brunch with Soul from 11am. Indulge in an exclusive two-hour experience which includes bottomless spritzes, wine and selected tap beers. What’s more, soul singers will be belting out tunes all brunch long.
Robe Hotel (Mundy Terrace, Robe)
There’s a special ‘Feed Me’ lunch menu for mums at Robe Hotel, featuring the freshest of local produce and a glass of wine. All mums will get entry into the draw to win a Mother’s Day hamper.
Mick O’Shea’s Hotel (Main South Road, Hackham)
Ever wondered why there’s only one day to celebrate the Mums in our lives? Celebrate all weekend-long at Mick O’Shea’s Hotel’s Mother’s Day Weekend, which kicks off May 13. On Saturday, Happy Hour (or Happy Few Hours) is from 2pm to 6pm, with Mum hitting the dancefloor when live music kicks off from 8.30pm. On Sunday, there’s fun for the whole family with plaster painting, live music, and even a petting zoo!
The Duck (393 Main Road, Coromandel Valley)
Bottomless beer and wine; need we say more? We shouldn’t have to, but we will. If there’s room in Mum’s tum, indulge in The Duck‘s two-hour ‘Feed Me’ menu and enter to win one of four Mother’s Day hampers.
The Hope Inn (348 Port Road, Hindmarsh)
There’s no need to hope for Mum to have a blast – she 100 per cent will at The Hope Inn. There are Mother’s Day lunch and dinner specials, two for $25 cocktails and raffle prizes.
Naracoorte Hotel (73 Ormerod Street, Naracoorte)
Cheers to Mum at Naracoorte Hotel with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, plus be in the draw to win one of six Mother’s Day hampers simply by ordering a main meal.
ENJOY A PICTURESQUE PICNIC
Just 15 minutes from Magill, venture inside Sinclair Gully Winery’s majestic candle bark forest where internationally acclaimed harpist Siobhan Owen will mesmerize Mum and pull at her heart strings.
Owen will play songs from Etta James, Elvis, the Beatles, Florence and the Machine, and many more in this majestic, outdoor performance.
Pack your own basket of goodies and buy Mum a beer, wine or soft drink when you get to the winery. Strictly no BYO alcohol.
In need of a few last-minute gifts? We’ve done all the hard work for you, with four gift guides featuring local retailers to help you find something stylish and unique for everyone just in time for Christmas.
For the Cocktail Lovers
Give the gift of Cosmopolitans and Gin Sours to enjoy over the festive season.
Effie Vlachoulis from Harris Real Estate knows the importance of trust and relationships better than most, and now it’s paying dividends.
We chat to the property consultant to find out more.
You’re a property consultant now, but that hasn’t always been the case– tell me about what you were doing before Harris.
Before real estate, I owned and operated a fashion boutique in Burnside and Norwood called Niki Belle. I stocked some beautiful brands including Zhivago, Lexi, Viktoria & Woods and was the go-to for any formal occasion. Working in fashion introduced me to so many people; I formed so many great relationships and really became part of my client’s lives, helping them choose outfits for special occasions and enjoying their return clientele. Helping people gave me such a great sense of job satisfaction, and luckily for me I continue to enjoy this same job satisfaction as a property consultant.
So, what made you decide to make the move from fashion retail to real estate?
I have always had an interest in real estate and, after approximately 10 years in retail, I felt it was time for a change. Surprisingly, the two industries are really quite similar – it’s all about helping people, it’s about relationships and it’s about trust. I have been able to maintain many of the relationships formed during my time at Niki Belle, and some of these people are now also clients of mine at Harris.
This is obviously one of your key points of difference.
Yes, and this is because I understand the importance of trust and commitment. My clients know that I will put 100 percent effort into their property campaign, from arranging trades and getting them sale ready, to doing the negotiating and ensuring the settlement runs smoothly. When I am selling a property, all of my attention is about that property, I’m not just thinking of the next one.
What other attributes make you a great property consultant?
Being personable, friendly, genuine, approachable and humble are attributes that I believe make me a great property consultant. Positive energy and a capacity to work under pressure is also very important.
You made the change just before COVID hit, at a time when interest rates were low and house prices were on the increase – what impact did this have on your entry into the industry?
Fortunately, it was the best time for me to get into the real estate industry. Properties were selling quickly for increased vendor expectations. Everyone was very optimistic and everyone was getting great results. I believe you still need to work hard when selling a property in any market as there are high and low times and managing buyer and vendor expectations is essential.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I hope to be able to help as many people buy and sell in Adelaide. I am committed to ongoing training and development and want to be known as Adelaide’s most honest, genuine and successful real estate agent
Walford Anglican School for Girls is preparing students for the real world with an innovative mentoring program.
Boutique girls’ school, Walford, focuses on knowing, understanding and supporting each student individually. In providing students with a progressive, gold-standard education they’ve created a new approach to mentoring senior students.
The Walford Student Mentor Program, which is part of a new future focused curriculum for senior girls, connects students with the world beyond school. The revolutionary program provides direction and networking opportunities for career development by including old scholars from various industries, such as law, to provide advice to students.
Keeping their goals and future in mind, each girl collaborates with a mentor teacher to create a tailored pathway. From Music to Engineering, each pathway reflects the student’s individuality and talents.
“The sky’s the limit when it comes to elective study, learning experiences and community service,” says Alice Speirs. Head of Senior School at Walford. “In Year10 our students have access to a range of new electives that will be multidisciplinary and therefore allow students to explore new areas and discover new interests.”
From Sports Psychology and Fashion Design for the Runway to Whodunnit (an introductory course in criminology and forensics), the electives cover a wide range of exciting career fields.
The future of learning also appears to have landed at Walford. Students use an online dashboard, recording their achievements and accomplishments. “Focussing on growth and a continued opportunity to improve and build on their portfolio, the dashboard will reflect each student’s pathway to Her Best,” says Alice.
From mock job interviews in Year10 to legal studies in Year 11, the opportunities are confidence building and create networks for the real-world after graduation. This innovative program, together with the resources and technologies available at Walford, ensure students are well connected with members of the community, providing valuable advice, stories and networking opportunities for a future that’s full of exciting possibilities.
The Principal, Rebecca Clarke, adds “Walford students are encouraged to select courses from a vast range of subjects and electives that will ignite their curiosity, challenge their thinking and expand their future ambitions”.
Rayna Hooper, creative director of Adelaide-based fashion house The Holiday Collective, on global exploration, inspiration and South Australian dedication.
Running one of Adelaide’s largest fashion houses from their operational headquarters in Hindmarsh, no two days are the same for founder and director of The Holiday Collective, Rayna Hooper. Beginning with a successful design career in homewares and textiles, Rayna’s wanderlust has taken her around the globe, where she has found endless inspiration for The Holiday Collective’s eight labels, Holiday, The Shanty Corporation, Brave+True, Talisman, Daisy Says, Home Love, Holiday Home and Holiday Life. But, despite her love of travel and the creativeness it inspires, she still calls South Australia – and now Adelaide – home, relocating from the company’s original base in Robe to the city outskirts at the beginning of 2020.
“Having the resources and infrastructure of a capital city has allowed us to grow,” says Rayna, who, along with the 60-strongteam, is currently operating out an historic presbytery on Port Road in Hindmarsh.“It has also enabled us to access talent and skill on a much broader scale, and to streamline logistics.”
Rayna, who is a self-confessed “achievement junkie”, opts for a hands-on approach and is subsequently involved in every aspect of the business. “I’m across all of the business functions, including finance, sales, marketing, warehousing and distribution. Making sure I’m across everything and giving projects the best chance of success is very important to me.”
This means a constant merry-go-round of daily meetings and communication with the local and internationally-based team. “It’s a never-ending juggling act,” she laughs. “Some days it really does feel like the circus. However, I am driven by making things come together and seeing the pieces of the puzzle fit. Collaboration with my team is a constant work in progress.”
That collaboration is set to become a little easier as The Holiday Collective’s showrooms, design space and marketing operations gets set to make its second move in just one year, this time to the neighbouring Hindmarsh Memorial Hall –right next door to their current offices.
“For the last four years our Adelaide operation has been run out of a beautiful church building, however, now that our entire team is here we have outgrown it and need a more contemporary and functional workspace,” she says.
With the functionality of the new workspace resolved, Rayna can once again turn her attention to the growth of her burgeoning Collective – although she’s quick to affirm that the travel restrictions forced upon her during 2020–2021 weren’t all bad, and in actual fact presented a unique opportunity for her to explore opportunities closer to home.
“When we couldn’t travel, I decided to promote the wonders of our beautiful state through our sales and marketing,” she explains. “Our photo shoots were all done in SA, using home-grown models, and our styles were named after local locations or people. We made SA the hero, and it built ongoing pride in our entire team for what we could achieve here.”
From meetings with designers, finance or marketing to photoshoots and fittings, everyday brings a different adventure. However, while the unpredictability is a guarantee, there’s one certainty – the dedication of her growing team of local talents, and, of course, her family. “I feel very, very grateful.”
It is time to bring the outdoors in with light and airy home interiors. The team at Oz Design Furniture show you how.
Minimalist, open plan homes with tonal décor are having a moment, but will this trend continue into the coming season? The experienced team at OZ Design Furniture say spring is all about having a fresh look and feel using vibrant colours to connect to nature. Natural textures will be huge, with handcrafted rattan furniture filling homes. Rattan can also be injected through décor such as baskets and lamp shades.
Slip-cover fabric sofas will also be resurfacing, providing both style and functionality. Easy to clean and offering the perfect relaxed look, slip-cover sofas pave the way for a fresh and light interior (the Whitehaven three-seater from OZ Design Furniture is our pick). Finally, the use of vibrant décor will see a shift away from winter with the use of oversized artwork, vases and table centerpieces.
Shop in-store or online at OZ Design Furniture and discover the latest sofas, dining, storage, homewares and more!
Whitehaven Armchair in Skye Cloud, $1399; Airlie Side Table in Natural Rattan, $399; Simpatico Cushion 50x60cm, $109.95
OZ Design Furniture 800 Marion Road, Marion 08 8472 3630
South Australian Style Magazine 