What Australia's style makers are wishing for this Christmas

By
Elizabeth Clarke
December 13, 2021
Bedlinen is at the top of the Christmas wish list for The Design Files editor, Lucy Feagins. Photo: Amelia Stanwix Photography

Some of Australia’s favourite tastemakers have made their Christmas wish lists (and checked them twice). Regardless of whether they’ve been naughty or nice, here are the gifts sitting right at the top.

Lucy Feagins

Editor, The Design Files

“After so much time spent at home over the past two years, I’m focused on making a few upgrades at home. This year I’m coveting fresh new bedlinen. I’m loving the Abbotson linen collection from Sheridan in simple, fresh white for summer, perhaps with a few accent colours, like blush pink or terracotta pillowslips. I love little luxuries that elevate the way I feel at home and make daily rituals feel a bit special. Bedlinen is one of those things that feels like a big investment at the time but is such a gamechanger. It can transform your whole bedroom and the way you feel in the space. It’s one of those things I just put off buying for myself!”

Jono Fleming

Interior designer and stylist

Top of interior designer and stylist Jono Fleming's Christmas wish list? An incense holder shaped like an oyster. Photo: Jacqui Turk

“I have my eye on a beautiful incense holder by designer Corey Ashford from Jumbled in Orange. It’s brass and cast in the shape of an oyster. It’s such a simple, elegant piece. Nothing screams summer more than a bit of incense burning. I love playing with different scents at home to change the mood, and this piece is stunning and a practical use of design. “

Jill Dupleix

Food writer

A new barbecue is all food writer Jill Dupleix needs. Photo: Supplied

“My barbie is on its last legs – I’ve worn it into the ground!  Because the thought of summer without barbecued lamb chops, roasted red peppers and grilled flatbreads – all at once – is unbearable, I’m hanging out for a Heston Blumenthal Everdure BBQ. It’s not too big for my balcony, not too small for entertaining, and I like its clean lines.”

Rachel Castle

Designer, Castle & Things

Rachel Castle, designer at Castle & Things, just wants sleep and books. Photo: Alana Landsberry

“I wish for sleep and lots of books about flowers, people and places. Even cookbooks, even though I don’t love cooking! I read everything everyone ever gifts me. Books are life, and they are my favourite forever gift to give and receive.”

Tim Ross

The Modernister

Once he decides on the colour, Tim Ross will be getting an Omkstak chair by OMK 1965. Photo: Supplied

“Top of my list is the Omkstak chair by OMK 1965 from Grandfather’s Axe. I’ve wanted one for ages, but I can’t decide what colour to get. I love collecting chairs, and I’m totally in love with the design and how they can be used indoors and out. They were in the first Star Wars film and I wonder whether they struck me as a kid because I’ve loved them ever since. The set design of sci-fi films and television shows from back in the day was pretty impressive and had a formative effect on me.”

Bonnie Ashley

Designer, Bonnie and Neil and Bonne

Designer Bonnie Ashley is hoping for a gold ring with pink sapphires. Photo: Martina Gemmola

“Jewellery is always on my wish list. This year I have my eye on a beautiful nine-carat gold ring set with pink sapphires from Melbourne jewellery designer Hamish Munro. His handcrafted pieces are individual works of art. It’s no secret I’m an avid collector of shiny things, but I also love receiving gifts that symbolise moments in time and will be a precious keepsake for years to come.”

Margie Woods

Designer, Viktoria & Woods

New books and artwork is what Viktoria & Woods designer, Margie Woods, wants. Photo: Ivana Martyn-Zyznikow

“I’m a keen reader so I’m looking forward to getting lost in a few books, including Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney, and the new Jonathan Franzen novel, CrossroadsAlso high on my list is an artwork by Niah Mcleod. I have started a small artwork collection and also love to collaborate with emerging artists and makers. I adore Niah’s work and would love to one day work with her.”

Bobby Gordon

Robert Gordon Australia

A practical gift is top of mind for Robert Gordon's Bobby Gordon. Photo: Eve Wilson

“I would love a Brodware Yokato wall mixer, an awesome Australian-made product for the bathroom. We’re in the early stages of renovating an old period home, and Brodware tapware complements our handmade basins perfectly.”

Vanessa Perilli

Co-founder, V Happy Co.

It's a Ray Wilkes Chiclet chair for Vanessa Perilli, co-founder of V Happy Co. Photo: Amelia Stanwix

“I love Ray Wilkes Chiclet chair for its modernist shape and curved edges. Our house is newly renovated, and I’ve found the perfect spot – or excuse – for two of them in front of the bookcase. We also have an incredible floor-to-ceiling bookcase with 60 shelves to fill! I love the Victionary PALETTE mini 07. I’ve always dreamed of buying the series as a design reference point but never had the space. It would be so arresting to see its coloured rainbow spines fill up a shelf.”

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