Kitchen
Timeline of a Kitchen Renovation
Embarking on a kitchen or bathroom renovation is a big commitment which takes careful planning and organisation. With multiple stages and tradespeople involved it can be hard to know what to expect. Below we have compiled a list of the typical stages involved in a kitchen or bathroom project. Retreat Design are the experts in providing a [...]
How To Maximise Cabinetry Space
At Retreat Design we are often asked how to maximise the space in your kitchen or bathroom. Lucky for us we work with only the best quality cabinetry from Italy and have a multitude of different ideas to solve your storage needs. Using high quality hardware such as Blum, Vibo, Hawa, Kessebohmer & Essetre we [...]
How To Choose The Right Finishes For Your Kitchen
Planning a new kitchen can be exciting and daunting all at once as you need to make design decisions which will stand the test of time. There are a few key design choices to be made, of which, the most important are: the bench tops, the cabinetry, the splash back and the fixtures such as [...]
Moving Away From Modular Cabinetry
Retreat Design prides itself on the ability to custom make kitchen components to suit your unique space. Whilst Ikea, Bunnings and other imported flat pack cabinetry suppliers are limited to modular sizes, our manufacturing partners can custom make any size cabinets that need to be produced to create your dream kitchen. With modular cabinetry [...]
2019 Highlights from Retreat Design
What a massive year! 2019 signalled our 12th year in operation and with it bought some impressive projects spanning a wide range of styles and budgets. This year we partnered with a new supplier, Arredo3, which has enabled us to offer Italian cabinetry at very good value for money. Our product offering has diversified [...]
High Tech Ideas for the Kitchen
Cutting edge technology in the kitchen With our ever changing requirements around the home, especially when it comes to services in the kitchen, we thought we’d share some ideas to incorporate technology into your everyday lives and future proof your renovation. Home Automation The control and automation of lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and [...]
Your Guide To Kitchen Benchtops
With so many products on offer, design choices for bench tops have never been so great. Here’s the Retreat Design guide to kitchen bench tops. We also highly recommend having a read of Choice Australia’s article where they’ve put 16 benchtop materials to the test in their labs, assessing their ability to resist heat damage, [...]
How much does a kitchen renovation cost?
The latest 2018/19 HIA Kitchens and Bathrooms survey found the average value of a kitchen installed in new homes to be $25,707, which is now lower than the $26,280 average value of kitchens installed as part of renovations. As a general rule of thumb entry level kitchen renovations will start around $10,000 to $25,000. A [...]
Project Review | Wembley Kitchen Renovation
We love to compare before & after pictures and this project is a great example of how a quality renovation can really change the feel of a home. Featuring Arrital’s AK_Project cabinetry in matte white, Q Stone Diamond White bench tops and Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo splash back, we were able to create a light, bright [...]
Project Review | Melville Kitchen Renovation
This recently completed kitchen renovation in the Perth suburb of Melville is a great example of how we can achieve maximum impact on a medium budget. Featuring Arrital’s AK_Project cabinetry in matte white with overhead cabinets in Arrital’s Fox Oak laminate, the overall look is contemporary and classy. The Oak laminate is continued on the [...]
Project Review | City Beach Kitchen
This project is a great example of how we can work with your architect to supply cabinetry and fittings as per their specified design. Working with Hartree & Associates architect and Minchin & Sims Builders, Retreat Design were provided with design drawings and material specifications for this exciting new build in City Beach. We were [...]
Project Review | Claremont Residence
This week we feature the impressive Claremont project we completed in late 2018. With thanks to Silvertone Photography for the excellent images…. Retreat Design was engaged by Gary Mackintosh, Architect to supply the cabinetry for his new home build in Claremont. Working alongside the builder, Velocity Building, our scope of works included supply and [...]
Supplier Spotlight: ARRITAL CUCINE
Our long standing relationship with supplier Arrital Cucine continues to grow with a large portion of our kitchen renovations utilising the quality Italian made cabinetry. Situated in Fontanafredda, Italy, Arrital’s headquarters and world class manufacturing facility supply kitchens to the global market, with 2019 being the company’s 40th anniversary. Renowned architect Franco Driusso has designed [...]
Project Review | Lake Monger Luxury Home
Completed a couple of years ago, this luxury home overlooks the picturesque Lake Monger in West Leederville. Working in collaboration with Luxus Homes and Palassis Architects, Retreat Design supplied the cabinetry and fixtures in the kitchen, scullery, five bathrooms, laundry and wardrobes throughout the home. Using premium finishes such as Effeti Natural Oak veneer and [...]
Kitchens Sell Houses
One of the most important areas of any property is arguably the kitchen. Not only do they sell houses but they also bring family and friends together. Once considered just a space for food preparation, the kitchen is now the heart of the home being a key hub for entertaining and socialising. A [...]
Kitchen & Bathroom Design Standards
Design standards are a common topic of conversation when planning a kitchen or bathroom. Typically, the standard measurements of cabinetry and fittings are determined in discussion between client & designer and in accordance with the Australian Standards. The height of bench tops, shower heads, cabinets and fittings are largely dependent on the individual and how [...]
Arredo3 Kitchens to Retreat Design
Retreat Design is pleased to announce our partnership with Italian kitchen manufacturer, Arredo3. Producing high quality cabinetry at competitive prices, we now have a product offering to suit all budgets. The Arredo3 factory is in the top 5 kitchen manufacturers in Italy with a large scale facility based in Scorzè in northeastern Italy which includes [...]
Kitchen Benchtop Ideas
Food for thought with our guide to the different benchtop surfaces available for use in your next kitchen project. NATURAL PRODUCTS Marble, Granite or Stone Natural marble is a high end product with a beautiful, one of a kind finish. Clients can choose a specific slab with a variety of colour and veining options. Depending [...]
Retreat Design | Our Point of Difference
If you’d like to know what sets us apart, then look no further. Our reputation and portfolio of past projects is proof of our continued relevance in the Perth market. Have a read below for our point of difference to local cabinet makers. UNIQUE At Retreat Design, we have exclusive access to a world [...]
Project Review | West Leederville Kitchen Renovation
This West Leederville kitchen renovation is not only super stylish but also highly functional for the needs of a growing family. Black powder coated stainless steel was used to great effect on the kitchen island and storage highlights; giving the space a slightly eclectic feel. Arrital’s AK_Project cabinetry range, with 22mm thick doors in a [...]
Kitchen Cabinetry Door Options
Kitchen cabinetry doors have come along way since the flat panel front with a handle of your choice! The technology has changed so dramatically in the last few years, choosing an emerging door option is a real way to add the wow factor to your new kitchen. Generally when we talk about kitchen cabinetry, [...]
Kitchenettes
Thanks Houzz for the feature, click below if you’re keen to learn more about Kitchenettes and how they fit our modern day living spaces! Kitchenettes: What Are They and Do You Need One? Come in to our Subiaco showroom or call to chat to one of our experienced designers about your next small space [...]
Project Review | Mount Lawley Renovation
Another 2018 example of Black Fenix cabinetry being used to great effect for this extensive whole house renovation! For this renovation in Mount Lawley a combination of white laminate, walnut effect laminate and black Fenix © were used to create contrast and drama in the kitchen area. Arrital’s walnut effect laminate has been a popular [...]
Claremont | kitchen extension
Completed earlier this year, this gorgeous kitchen extension for a local interior designer features heavy lashings of Fenix© contrasted against white laminate and dark wood effect wall cabinetry. The result is a kitchen space you just can’t take your eyes off with so many details to absorb and enjoy. The overextended breakfast bar sits proud [...]
Project in Review | 2010 Effeti Kitchen Mosman Park
This 2010 kitchen renovation is a wonderful example of how good design and Italian style is truly timeless. Featuring bespoke cabinetry from Effeti’s Autentica range in a natural oak this Effeti kitchen still has the wow factor over 8 years on. The brief was to create an open kitchen into the living and dining area [...]
Project Review | Cottesloe Kitchen
With endless views of the Indian Ocean, this Cottesloe kitchen was designed to take advantage of the breathtaking views by having the kitchen positioned on the second floor with west facing breakfast bar seating overlooking the ocean. For this project, Retreat Design designed and installed the kitchen cabinetry for a Crothers Builders built residence. [...]
Floreat Kitchen Joy | Making Memories
In many family homes the evening meal is created whilst homework is being done, kids are de-briefing on their day and balls are being kicked indoors with the faint shrill of “take that outside” heard over the din. Adding a neighbourhood friend that drops by will create even more happy chaos. So the kitchen really [...]
Watermans Bay Kitchen | Project Review
Crazy as it sounds, but the Christmas period is closing in on us and with that comes a gigantic push to get clients’ projects underway and finished. Getting to help create some happiness during the festive season with recently created spaces is something that we really love at Retreat Design! Speaking of creating happiness…. [...]
Project Review | Classic Kitchen Cabinetry | Dalkeith Home
Getting to work over the course of several years with clients as their family needs and lifestyles change is so rewarding and a testament to the art of listening with intention during the design process. There are many Perth families for who we have designed and installed cabinetry solutions into multiple residences over the years. [...]
Our Design Process | A Unique Renovation Company
At Retreat Design we offer a fluid and flexible design, construct and project management service. So whether you are replacing your kitchen, looking for a bathroom renovation company or sourcing cabinetry for your next construction project, Retreat Design is the place to start your research. Below, we’ve compiled a list of steps to [...]
Laser edged laminate – what’s all the fuss?
For those in the market for a new kitchen you may have heard the term "laser edged laminate" bandied around. Kitchen cabinetry manufacturing technologies are continually evolving and the latest advancement in laminate door finishes is what's called laser edging. This is where a high efficiency laser is used to join the edges between the [...]
Project Feature: Shenton Park
Retreat Design was enlisted to supply the bathroom, laundry, powder room and kitchen cabinetry & fixtures for the renovation of a federation style home in Shenton Park. The end result was a warm and welcoming, open-plan kitchen area which was both eclectic and full of character, a perfect space for family entertaining. The client’s [...]
Why choose Retreat Design for your next bathroom or kitchen renovation?
Committing to a bathroom or kitchen renovation is a major decision and one that most people only make a few times in their lives. If you are in the process of renovating, you are probably knee deep in research. There is a mired of information out there on how to renovate and who to renovate [...]
Classic Kitchen Design
If you are looking for a truly classic kitchen design, Arrital Cucine’s Village kitchen range is perfect for you. This kitchen cabinetry collection is available exclusively in Perth from Retreat Design. The range features an framed detail on the doors to create a timelessly classic kitchen. The Village kitchen cabinetry collection is available in [...]
How To Maximise Space In The Kitchen
Homes with smaller than desired kitchens come with a range of natural restrictions you have to deal with. Nevertheless, smaller kitchens can be renovated in creative ways to maximise functionality and capitalise on the available space. Here’s our top tips for renovating a small kitchen: Knock Down a Wall The most obvious solution [...]
Project Highlights From 2017
As 2017 draws to a close, we thought we’d share with you some of our favourite projects from the year. We are thrilled with the work we’ve completed and the clients we’ve met along the way. Here’s just a snippet of some of our great home transformations! To view more Retreat Design projects, [...]
The Arrital ‘Gallery’ Kitchen │Timeless Elegance
For lovers of a traditional kitchen, the Arrital Gallery is the epitome of refined luxury. Featuring shaker style doors with a classic aesthetic, this kitchen is a perfect alternative to our more modern, streamlined kitchens. The key design element, being the inset frame on the cabinet door, gives this kitchen collection a Hamptons feel [...]
Easy & Delicious Christmas Recipes
GINGERBREAD TRIFLE INGREDIENTS 900ml thickened cream 1 cup (330g) dulce de leche (or other caramel sauce) 250g sour cream 1/3 cup (40g) icing sugar, sifted 800g gingerbread cake (or other bought cake) 90ml marsala or brandy 1½ tsp cinnamon 200g gingerbread biscuits (or gingernut), crumbled METHOD 1. Divide thickened cream evenly between two bowls. Add the [...]
Project Feature: Leederville Renovation
Retreat Design renovated the kitchen of this Leederville home in 2016 for our client who wanted a contemporary looking space. Using Arrital ‘Village’ cabinetry, a Falcon oven with recycled timber railway sleeper and a statement butler’s sink, we achieved a classic looking kitchen that ties in perfectly with the Jarrah floorboards and character features of [...]
Our Top Tapware Picks
Choosing the right tapware for your kitchen or bathroom project should be a well thought out decision. The range on offer is extensive and there is a huge difference in price and quality. At Retreat Design, we are proud suppliers of European brands such as Gessi, Zucchetti, Hansgrohe, Armando Vicario and KWC to name a [...]
BEFORE & AFTERS – What a transformation!
There’s nothing more rewarding at the end of a project than looking back on how far you’ve come. Renovating can be messy and time consuming so it’s nice to have a before and after shot to see the wonderful transformation of the space. At Retreat Design we have some great photos to compare our projects [...]
Retreat Design Kitchens For Vivid Blu Apartments
We are pleased to announce that Retreat Design has been awarded the contract to supply cabinetry for the new Vivid Blu development in Mindarie. Situated on the stunning Mindarie Marina waterfront, the 26 boutique apartments will feature luxury finishes and open-plan living perfect for the coastal lifestyle. A mix of studios, 2×1, 2×2 and double [...]
The Design Process With Retreat Design
Our team of designers are often asked about the design process and what is involved in the scope of works with our company. At Retreat Design we offer a complete yet flexible service from initial design through to handing over a completed project. We can be involved in your kitchen and bathroom project as little [...]
Arrital AK_Project Kitchen Range
Introducing AK_Project, the streamlined new kitchen collection from Arrital with a greater range of product offerings and standardisation. The old AK_01, AK_02, AK_03 and AK_06 have been amalgamated and refreshed to offer more variety for our clients to select the perfect function and finish. A completely customised approach to kitchen design, the AK_Project range [...]
Win A $2000 Design Package From Retreat Design
Enter our Facebook Competition for your chance to win a $2000 Design Package from the team at Retreat Design. This exciting prize package includes: 1 x In home consultation 2 x Design meetings with one of our interior designers at our showroom 2 x Material and colour selection meetings at our offsite suppliers 3D Visualisation [...]
Fenix NTM® The Revolutionary Kitchen Material
A versatile new product perfectly suited to cabinetry applications. Available on the AK Series Kitchens by Arrital Cucine. We are pleased to share with you the images of our recently completed project in Byford using the revolutionary new kitchen material called Fenix NTM®. Arrital Cucine unveiled Fenix NTM® on their kitchens at EuroCucina in Milan a [...]
An Affordable Designer Kitchen
The photos of our recent kitchen project in Melville have just come through and we couldn’t be happier! Completed in 2016, this project is a wonderful example of how we can achieve a high end finish with a medium sized budget. By using matte white laminate for the majority of the cabinets and the [...]
How To Choose The Right Splashback
Benchtops and splashbacks are a key design element in our kitchens and choosing the right finish depends on your personal taste and budget constraints. Having previously covered the topic of kitchen benchtops in our blog post here, we thought we’d share our comprehensive guide on how to select the right splashback for you. A kitchen [...]
Our Top Kitchen Organisation Tips
Who doesn’t love a clean and well-organised kitchen?! Where everything is within reach and readily visible… We have a vast portfolio of project images so we thought we’d share our top tips for getting your kitchen organised and some excellent products which can help you achieve this. Drawer Organisers – Both our Arrital and [...]
The Pocket Claremont Wins WA Architecture Award
Congratulations to Georgiou Living and Cameron Chisholm Nicol on winning the Harold Krantz Award for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing Category at the 2017 WA Architecture Awards last week. The Pocket at Claremont is a 95 apartment, multi-residential development situated around the Claremont Football Oval on Davies Road. Completed in 2016, Retreat Design supplied all of [...]
Renovation Timeline – What To Expect
Retreat Design Renovation Timeline Embarking on a kitchen or bathroom renovation is a big commitment which takes careful planning and organisation. With multiple stages and tradespeople involved it can be hard to know what to expect. Below we have compiled a list of the typical stages involved in a kitchen or bathroom project. Retreat Design are [...]
How To Design A Timeless Kitchen
What are the secrets to designing a timeless kitchen? A new kitchen is a big investment. With kitchen trends fickle and potential buyers increasingly design savvy, we have compiled a list of our top tips for creating a timeless kitchen that will provide decades of use without looking dated. Neutral Colour Palette │ By [...]
Designer Cabinetry For Your New Build
We work directly with builders and architects. As well as specialising in renovations and retrofits, Retreat Design is an established supplier of cabinetry for new builds. Working in conjunction with the builder or architect, Retreat Design can supply customised solutions for your new home. Some of the benefits of working with us are: We [...]
How to prepare for a renovation
If you’re about to commence a renovation, we’ve got you covered with our top tips to prepare you for the kitchen demolition phase. Tile removal and strip out can be messy work but if you read through and follow our hints, this will make the process a lot smoother for all involved. As tile removal [...]
5 ways to design a more cost effective kitchen
When you’re planning a kitchen renovation the quoting stage can be an eye-opening experience. Whilst most cabinet makers would prefer you not to make shortcuts, we are going to share with you some of our insider secrets! Here’s our top 5 ways to reduce your kitchen cabinetry costs. Cabinetry finish: our entry level kitchen ranges in laminate [...]
Effeti Impronta Kitchen │Timeless Elegance
For lovers of a more traditional kitchen, the Effeti Impronta is the epitome of refined luxury. Featuring shaker style doors with a classic aesthetic that references the past, this kitchen is a perfect alternative to our more modern, streamlined kitchens. Available with elegant handles in stainless steel, bronze or matte black finish and a variety of [...]
Top tips to create a functional kitchen
Since we deal with kitchens day in day out, we thought we’d compile a list of our top tips to creating the perfect, functional kitchen. Here are some handy hints for making the the most practical design decisions. Choose finishes wisely. Mosaic tiled splashbacks may look fabulous but who wants to spend all weekend scrubbing cook [...]
New Year.. new renovation inspo!
2017 is upon us and we thought we’d share with you some of our latest renovation projects in a recent photo shoot we completed with the talented Silvertone Photography. Perhaps some of these images will spark your creative juices and get you excited for your own project? Here at Retreat Design we have started the year [...]
Understanding kitchen cabinetry terminology
Cabinetry Terms The world of kitchens can be a confusing one… Especially if you haven’t completed a kitchen renovation or new build before. To make life easier we’ve compiled a list of common kitchen cabinetry lingo so you can make sense of those new kitchen plans! Have a read of the most commonly used kitchen terms below [...]
A comparison: natural & man made benchtop surfaces
As kitchen designers, we have completed countless renovations with a variety of both natural stone & marble bench tops and engineered solid surfaces. Here we thought we’d give you a simple comparison of the different products available for your next kitchen or bathroom project // NATURAL PRODUCTS Marble, Granite or Stone Natural marble is [...]
AK_02 Kitchen – an affordable, luxury kitchen
We thought we’d revisit the AK_02 Kitchen by Arrital to show you that designer kitchens can be within reach! A stylish kitchen with excellent affordability, the AK_02 kitchen features 22mm thick doors in a range of thermostructured melamine finishes. Available with four straight edges or with one edge at 30 degrees. The straight edge option is available [...]
Why choose Retreat Design?
If you’re in the market for a new kitchen you’re probably busy researching all your options and saving a wish list for your dream kitchen. It’s sometimes hard to know which company is the best ‘fit’ for your project. To make your job easier, we have written a few points on what sets Retreat Design apart from [...]
Free renovation guide
Here at Retreat Design we love to share the love and are thrilled at the opportunity to share some of our renovation knowledge with our free renovation guide Renovations can be tricky things, you never quite know what you are going to discover when the tools come out. Here are Retreat Design we can help [...]
Top 5 tips for planning a kitchen remodel or a new kitchen
Planning to remodel any area in your home is always exhilarating, but renovating a kitchen is not an easy job – besides being very time consuming, it can also be expensive. But hey, who wouldn’t pay the price for a dream kitchen? It’s usually a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a home owner, and getting it right [...]
On trend kitchen renovation ideas
We have put together some of the latest and greatest kitchen renovation ideas to keep you updated on the most innovative products available. Door finishes | Adding a point of difference to your kitchen with innovative finishes on the doors and cabinetry will add wow factor to your kitchen. Treated wood finishes in dark and [...]
6 Reasons Why You Should Use Retreat Design
If you’re wondering how you can benefit from using a project management service such as ours, read on to find out more. Our dedicated team of designers can assist you with identifying areas of your home that need upgrading in order to increase the value of your home. We are also a one stop shop for [...]
Space saving storage solutions
At Retreat Design we are often asked how to maximise the space in your kitchen or bathroom. Lucky for us we work with only the best quality cabinetry from Italy and have a multitude of different ideas to solve your storage needs.Using high quality hardware such as Blum, Vibo, Kessebohmer & Essetre we are able [...]
Six tips for a successful renovation
Below we’ve compiled some of our top tips for planning a well executed home renovation. We always recommend you invest time at the start of the design process to research your ideas and make the all important decision of choosing the right professional to help oversee your home renovation. 1. DO YOUR RESEARCH | Plan [...]
Introducing the AK_06 Kitchen by Arrital
Available exclusively through Retreat Design, the Arrital AK_06 is a contemporary kitchen design which combines planning flexibility, technology and new materials. Designed by Franco Driusso, the AK_06 is the result of Italian supplier Arrital using their cutting edge manufacturing technologies to continually refine the handle-less door finish to create truly innovative door solutions. Arrital has [...]
15% OFF your dream kitchen during February + March
Retreat Design are offering 15% off your dream kitchen when you order during the months of February + March 2015. Call us today to arrange a consultation with one of our experienced designers | Ph. 08 6101 1190 or drop in and see us at 307 Hay St, Subiaco. Take a look at our Arrital [...]
New Year… New Kitchen?!
With the start of the New Year, we often see clients who are keen to embark on a home renovation or install a new kitchen. Below we have compiled some of the key trends for 2015 which may be worth considering when designing your new kitchen or living space. Design finish: Moving away from glossy [...]
Feature taps on trend
We love interesting tap ware and if our suppliers’ latest offerings are anything to go by, taps are set to become a stand out feature in our bathroom designs. From the fluid form of Gessi’s Goccia range to the architectural lines of Zucchetti’s Wosh collection, we can help you choose taps that become a focal [...]
Arrital Kitchens | Affordable luxury
Introducing the AK_05 kitchen from our Italian manufacturer, Arrital Kitchens. A luxury product at a competitive price which offers excellent value for money without compromising on style. The AK_05 is a highly versatile kitchen range that can be used to create a multitude of different themes. Launched at EuroCucina earlier this year, the AK_05 is [...]
Concrete & cement finishes
The trend towards concrete & cement finishes looks set to stay with the use of matt & textured cement surfaces prevalent on kitchen floors, walls, cabinetry and bench tops. The appeal of this classically cool and industrial material is in its modern aesthetic which pairs beautifully with warm timber and pops of colour. One of [...]
Effeti BK1 Kitchen design project – Los Angeles
Beverly Hills designers Di-group have shared with us one of their latest kitchen design projects in Hollywood, California. The stunning BK1 kitchen range from Italian manufacturer Effeti was used to great effect in this stylish residence with a view. We love the modern simplicity of this range with its clean lines and warm timber finish. [...]
Ferrari kitchen | OLA 25 by Pininfarina
Introducing the futuristic ‘OLA 25’ limited edition kitchen released at Eurocucina 2014. To mark 25 years of collaboration, Italian kitchen manufacturer Snaidero and world famous car designer Pininfarina have released the Ferrari inspired OLA 25 kitchen. This unique design, inspired by the Pininfarina ‘Sergio’ concept car is highly customisable and can be tailor made to [...]
The Design Process at Retreat Design
Our team of designers are often asked about the design process and what is involved in the scope of works with our company. At Retreat Design we offer a complete yet flexible service from initial design through to handing over a completed project. We can be involved in your kitchen and bathroom project as little [...]
Milan Furniture Fair 2014 – Kitchen Trends
Having recently returned from Milan’s EuroCucina and Salone Internazionale del Bagno fair, Steve Johnson, Director at Retreat Design, shares with us some of the key trends and new products from this year’s Salone Del Mobile. Kitchens at this year’s edition of EuroCucina show that warm, and textured materials are still going strong with mostly [...]
Kitchen with flair
Our oceanside friends were keen to create the wow factor when they designed their kitchen with our designer, Shaye Starr. The result is a sensational kitchen which will stand the test of time whilst providing a topic of conversation for many dinner parties to come. We love the use of strip lighting to create that [...]
A different kind of kitchen
We love it when a client pushes the design direction of a project. The end result for this Quinns Rock couple is a retractable sliding table that hides the hotplate and sink. A telescopic pop up tap completes the look. Another feature is that in the pantry area there is a slide out table in [...]
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