Lauren Ralph Lauren collection for purchase in Australia

Everyone is familiar with the coveted Ralph Lauren brand; whether it is the iconic Polo, designer gowns or even the fragrances available. However, it is now time to become familiar with the new classic home interiors Ralph Lauren has introduced. A sophisticated style that has transcended from the catwalk into your home.

Featured are home wares, furnishings, and lighting solutions, known as the three-part collection by RLH; titled Saugatuck, Elise and Lake Shore Drive.

Where can you find the Lauren Ralph Lauren home range?

It is now being exclusively stocked in Coco Republic's Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane stores. In the words of the stockist Coco Republic, the RLH Collection is created with the "...finest materials and finishes".

As a Melbournian I am ecstatic to have access to these amazing home interior pieces - and I am sure that I will be discovering new favourite additions, as time goes on.

For a fashionable home by RLH, check out some of the items on sale here: 

http://www.cocorepublic.com.au/furniture-and-homewares/product-listing/lauren-ralph-lauren-home/

Chat soon, Tam :)

Photo reference: Screen grab taken from http://www.cocorepublic.com.au/

White on white... ongoing trend in kitchen design

As colourful kitchens are an increasing trend... it is important for me to highlight just how popular white kitchens are in today's market. My customers are exposed to a great range of natural and reconstituted stone, featuring an abundance of white surface options to use throughout the home interior. With the recent introduction from stone suppliers of the natural quartz palettes, the "white" kitchen selection continues to trend.

 

Stone by Granite Planet.

Why is "white" an attractive choice?       

- It creates vibrancy and an illusion of space by adding light and brightness to the kitchen

- Creates opportunity by allowing homeowners to add accents of colour through objects, such as fruit bowls, artwork, crockery and stools. These objects can be moved and aid flexibility to set the current mood or theme

- It highlights fixtures

- It looks clean and is easy to maintain - hides a lot of wear and tear!

- Promotes a timeless design (safer option) when the years unfold and other design choices/fads become a thing of the past

- Marketable path to go down for resale value / re-selling appeal.

Photo by EP Stock of AU mansion.

Stone by Granite Planet.

Stone by Granite Planet.

If ever in doubt about the colour scheme - seek a professional opinion. Whether it be that of an interior designer or a trades professional. This creates certainty, that your choice embraces the right blend and shade of white.

Request as many samples as you can, for all areas of the room that you are renovating.

Plan well and you will be able to enjoy the benefits and beauty of a white kitchen.

Talk soon,
Tam
www.graniteplanet.com.au

Supporting a good cause

Granite Planet have taken on-board an initiative to support Camp Quality through the commendable efforts of our stone supplier, Caesarstone, Australia. A big thank you to Caesarstone for involving us in recognising the need to support a really good cause. A cause that feeds off the power of positivity, laughter, goodwill, integrity, compassion and generosity.

What is Camp Quality all about?

Camp Quality is a children's family cancer charity. They work with families all over Australia to create a better life for children (0-13 years) living with cancer. Camp Quality have programs designed to help children through each stage of their cancer journey, such efforts involve providing an environment to promote normality, offer fun therapy and conduct exercises to restore optimism.

Currently "... services reach 1 in 3 children living with cancer in Australia". The goal is to have every child living with cancer in Australia supported by Camp Quality. In order to do this, in turn, they need your support.

Please take a moment to check out their website and consider how you can make a difference. We just did.


Link and reference: http://www.campquality.org.au/public/home.aspx

Choosing the right bar stool for your home

Bar stools contribute to the overall room design and can make or break the final look. Here are a few handy hints to look out for when choosing the right stools for your home.

Things to consider:

Price – Shop around in physical stores to “try before you buy” and then check prices online. Bar stools don’t necessarily have to break the bank; however the longevity of a stool can be based on how much you end up paying. Expect around $50 (basic quality) to $400 (deluxe boutique) for each bar stool.

Comfort – Think about whether your stool needs features that promote extra support. Consider back support or backless chairs with sturdy legs, four legs or a swivel base, leg rests and cushioning. Before you purchase a bar stool be sure to sit on the stool for a few minutes to ensure it is comfortable and safe.

Height – Each stool needs to be an appropriate height for the benchtop surface. Make sure if you are choosing a bar stool for an island bench, that you ensure the height is around 66cm (24”). There are online guides to tell you how high your stool should be depending on where it will be placed in the home.

Usability – Consider how often the stool will be used, for example daily use and/or just for special occasions (i.e. Parties / BBQ’s etc).

Location – Make sure the stools are suitable for the type of indoor or outdoor room it resides in.

Design – Stools need to match the overall décor/theme of the room (i.e. modern, country, classic and traditional etc). The stools should not overpower a room, but accentuate the style. If your room is simple and large, then you can go for a more top heavy looking design, instead of a slimline type of stool that would be better suited in a busier environment. Be sure to spread out each stool and not overcrowd the designated space.

Colour – Personally, I would take a colour from the existing canvas and then use this as a basis to choose your stools. This means, consider whether you want to match the existing benches, table and chairs. Alternatively, you may want to make a design statement and choose a standout colour for the chairs to pop and burst with personality. This approach can be risky, but if done correctly it can be appealing on the eye.

Maintenance – Before purchase, make sure the stools are easy to clean and think about usability of the chairs and how you will maintain a quality and clean appearance. Also if upholstered, ensure that it is of high quality and durability, to withstand material wear and tear.

Material – Here’s a list of the main types of bar stools you can find in today’s marketplace:

- Metal / Aluminum
- Fabric
- Wooden
- Plastic
- Vinyl
- Wicker &
- Leather.

Remember, stools are movable objects and can be replaced anytime. But, it’s always worth doing the research and weighing up the best options in order to maximise value and satisfaction.

Chat soon, Tam!

Stone prices... how expensive is too expensive? Quality DOES matter.

How much should you really pay for a granite, marble and/or reconstituted quartz based stone project? 

In recent months, as new competition has entered the market it has come to our attention that prospective customers are uncertain whether they should choose price, over quality.

Feedback has suggested that if the price is low (in most cases), this appears to be the deciding factor in why a client will choose a stonemason. Price reigns over a quality finish. However, does cost savings leave the consumer happy with the end result?

 

There are reasons for why a job may be priced too low. Competition in the industry is increasing and when the market becomes saturated, new comers are willing to drop their price and quality to win work.

 

What puts us (Granite Planet) at ease is that some of our recurring customers have returned with feedback on how they regret overlooking quality, when it came down to price. It is important to note that by ignoring quality, the costs in the long run may surpass the initial savings.

 

As an industry expert, it is easy to differentiate between the 'cowboys', 'hack-shops' and those who are 'reputable' in the market. As a consumer reading this blog, I strongly advise you to review your quotes and discuss what value is offered. Speak to the stonemason, do your research and see samples of their work. Value is not always in terms of monetary savings.

What you need to know when getting a cost for your stone surface:

Step one, is to call Granite Planet and speak to a representative if you need help in planning your stone project. We are friendly and are always available to help our prospective customers fill in gaps.

When requesting an accurate stone quotation, the estimator needs to understand your measurements, edge work style, edge thickness, material selected, the cutting list (under-mount / top-mount sinks), polished edges (seen edges) and any additional features, such as a waterfall end.

At Granite Planet we aim to be transparent in our pricing and discuss options that fit a client's desired budget. Our stone suppliers have a great relationship with us and when pricing material, we are flexible in offering saving options available, such as surplus (off-cut) stock.

We have many tips on how to save costs when designing your stone tops (kitchen benchtops & bathroom vanities etc), don't be shy to ask! For example, a way to bring down costs is to search for quality material that is not a full slab.

Planning a full kitchen renovation? Not just looking to replace your benchtops?

 

Here's a handy little calculator that you can use for inspiration when planning your kitchen. Costs are only an indication.

http://www.homedesigndirectory.com.au/calculators/KitchenCostCalculator.shtml#.UYhpWsoaUqY