More Posts
Australia By Design TV Series
We’re looking forward to seeing The Pocket Claremont featured on the new TV series Australia By Design. Premiering on Network Ten on Saturday July 15th, ABD is Australia’s freshest architectural TV series, showcasing the best architect-designed homes, office spaces and construction spaces. Counting down from 10-1 across the country with all government architects on board [...]
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 [...]
Integrated Appliances. The Way Of The Future.
In keeping with our streamlined cabinetry, we like to specify integrated appliances to keep the kitchen looking sleek and clutter free. Here at Retreat Design we love taking inspiration from European design trends. We believe the way forward is with integrated appliances, which mean that clunky-looking fridges, freezers and dishwashers are a thing of the past! With [...]
Introducing the Must Collection by Altamarea
Introducing the luxurious ‘Must Collection’ by Altamarea, Italy. Designed in collaboration with Willy Dalto from Imago Design, the Must products are now available through Retreat Design in Perth. Founded in Oderzo, Italy in 2000, the boutique bathroom manufacturer Altamarea collaborates with renowned Italian design studios to bring unique, high quality bath furnishings to the international [...]
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 [...]
Bathroom Heating + Underfloor Heating
With the colder months upon us, there’s nothing better than stepping in to a comfortably warm, heated bathroom. Bathroom heating has come a long way in the past decade and there are now a variety of clever and economical solutions to keep your wet areas warm. With options such as underfloor heating, wall mounted radiators, [...]
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 [...]
Miele ArtLine Handleless Appliances
“Purist, linear and entirely handleless” New to Australia, Miele has introduced a super sleek range of handle-less appliances called “ArtLine”. Kitchens have evolved dramatically over the years and in keeping with streamlined cabinetry, ArtLine offers flush fitting, functional appliances that are aesthetically beautiful. Developed by Miele’s design team, ArtLine is the culmination of 6 years design [...]
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 [...]
Space Saving Bathroom Ideas
Given that bathrooms are often the smallest room in the house, we have put together a list of space saving ideas to help maximise your bathroom floor plan. Wall Mounting │By selecting cabinetry and fixtures which can be wall mounted you free up valuable floor space. (e.g floating vanity or wall mounted toilet) Mirrors │As with any [...]
Kitchens + Bathrooms Sell Houses
HOW CAN A GREAT KITCHEN HELP YOU SELL YOUR HOUSE? When it comes to selling your house, minor transformations can go a long way toward attracting buyers. Since the kitchen is considered the heart of a home, the area where the family can spend time together during the day, one that’s in optimal condition will [...]
XLight Large format porcelain tiles
Introducing XLight, by Porcelanosa, the slimline porcelain slabs which offer a fabulous new cladding solution for walls & benches. Characterised by its extra-large format and minimum thickness, XLight is extremely versatile. Perfect for use in bathrooms and kitchens, it eliminates the need for grout lines, making cleaning easier and mimicking the look of natural stone. New to the Perth [...]
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 the perfect bathroom
Planning a bathroom renovation or new build? We’ve got you covered! Here’s our top bathroom tips for creating your dream space: Floating cabinetry makes the space feel larger and more spacious. Floating shelves are also a gorgeous way to display perfume bottles or indoor plants. Large wall mirrors with integrated lighting help to reflect [...]
Arrital’s ‘Design Your Future’ │ Italian Visit 2017
The Retreat Design team have recently returned from their trip to Italy where they attended the Arrital ‘Design (Y)our Future’ Global meeting attended by over 70 distributors from 35 different countries across the world. The three day event commenced in Fontanafredda, where Arrital’s headquarters and world class manufacturing facility are located. Here, the team were [...]
Lake Monger Luxury Home
We recently completed this luxury home overlooking the picturesque Lake Monger in Wembley. Working in collaboration with Luxus Homes and Palassis Architects, Retreat Design supplied the cabinetry and fixtures in the kitchen, scullery, 5 x bathrooms, laundry and wardrobes throughout the home. Using premium finishes such as Effeti Natural Oak veneer and Bernini Versailles stone, the kitchen [...]
Best of Houzz 2017
Retreat Design is proud to announce our portfolio was voted most popular by the Houzz community, receiving a ‘Best of Houzz 2017’ badge to add to our profile. We update our profile regularly with professional images of all of our projects and links to our exclusive products. The Houzz platform has proved to be an excellent source [...]
Custom Wardrobes & Storage Solutions
Do you have grand ideas for the perfect built in or walk in wardrobe? Do you long for a modern, stylish & functional wardrobe to house all your beautiful clothes & accessories? Retreat Design is here to help! With access to exclusive Italian brands such as Dall’agnese and Birex, we have a multitude of different [...]
Luxury Powder Room Design
Having recently completed this project for our client in North Perth, we wanted to share some of the luxury details that went into this spectacular powder room design. Cutting edge accessories from the Gessi ‘Cono‘ range were specified to give a masculine and sophisticated feel. The leather fronted cabinetry from Karol’s ‘Urban Chic’ collection pairs beautifully [...]
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 [...]
Christmas Pudding made easy with the VZUG steam oven
Enjoy this delectable Christmas Pudding recipe made in the revolutionary Combair-Steam Oven. Ingredients 400 g Dried fruit mix 80 g Figs, dried, chopped 80 g Apricots, dried, chopped 80 g Dates, dried and pitted, chopped 1 Orange, zest grated 100 g Macadamia nuts, chopped 90 ml Brandy 240 ml Orange juice 150 g Plain flour [...]
Cutting edge technology in the kitchen & bathroom
In our fast paced world we have ever changing requirements around the home especially when it comes to technology and services in the two main functional areas of the home – the kitchen and bathroom. Being at the forefront of design advances in these areas we thought we’d share with you some options available to incorporate [...]
Designer bathroom vanities that make a statement
We love to incorporate beautiful bathroom vanities into our designs. A quality vanity unit can become a gorgeous statement piece in the bathroom and ideally strike a balance between functionality & high end style. Here are some images of our favourite bathroom vanities from our Italian suppliers Altamarea and Rifra. Luxurious materials such as marble, quartz, water resistant [...]
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 [...]
Introducing the Opera Collection by Altamarea
Introducing the luxe new Opera collection by Altamarea Italy. Designed by Willy Dalto & Antonella di Nuzzo from Imago Design, we are very excited to have this brand new bathroom collection on display in our showroom. Inspired by the Scandinavian sideboard of the fifties and sixties, the sleek cabinetry is characterised by aluminium extruded handles in finishes such [...]
Cheers to a successful CWID event!
On Saturday 15th October, Retreat Design took part in Perth’s inaugural InDesign event CWID (Contemporary Wine in Design) which showcased our vibrant local design industry. With our showroom playing host to a steady stream of design visitors, we got the chance to showcase our beautiful kitchen and bathroom cabinetry designs and discuss what it means [...]
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 [...]
Contemporary Wine In Design
Contemporary Wine In Design Event – Saturday 15th October Retreat Design is proud to sponsor Andrea Santantonio’s visit to Australia to celebrate the story of Italian cabinetry and its application in Western Australian homes. Andrea Santantonio is responsible for the worldwide sales & distribution of Arrital Cucine and will be giving a series of [...]
Kitchen & Bathroom Design Standards
Design standards are a common topic our clients bring up 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 etc are largely dependent on the individual and how [...]
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 [...]
Wardrobe Solutions
At Retreat Design we have perfect wardrobe solutions for your home. We have the exclusive rights to Dall’Agnese, an Italian company, that manufactures beautiful wardrobe solutions. Dall’Agnese wardrobes provide free standing wardrobes as well as stunning solutions for your built in wardrobe space. Featured here is a built in wardrobe from the “emotion” range in [...]
CONO by Gessi + Karol
Newly released, the Gessi Cono (meaning ‘Cone’ in Italian) collection of tap ware and ceramics combines a naturally curved shape with angular lines, to create a sculptural piece of art. Innovative in form, Cono is designed in Italy by Prospero Rasulo and includes taps, basins, baths and accessories that are ideal for both contemporary and [...]
Bathe in luxury
DESIGNER BATHS Lets face it, there’s nothing more relaxing at the end of a long day than a soak in a luxurious bathtub… Here at Retreat Design we love to incorporate a feature bathtub into our clients’ bathroom designs. With so many stunning designer baths to choose from, we can help you select a beautiful [...]
Designer radiators from tubes
If you’re looking for a smart, stylish and economical heating solution this winter look no further than the ‘Elements’ collection from Tubes Radiatori. New to Perth, Retreat Design are now the exclusive supplier of these beautifully designed radiators from Italy. The Elements Collection from Tubes, created by leading architects and designers is a range of [...]
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 [...]
Retreat Design kitchens for the Pocket claremont
THE POCKET CLAREMONT Here at Retreat Design we are busily working on the design and supply of 95 kitchens for The Pocket development by Georgiou Living. Situated around the old Claremont Oval site, The Pocket will provide a cosmopolitan lifestyle close to amenities such as Claremont’s shopping precinct and the Train Station. The entire Claremont [...]
6 Reasons why you should use retreat design for your renovation
Avoid renovation grief // Your design, works and renovation team are fully coordinated on your behalf. Our qualified designers create beautiful designs that meet your requirements and our construction team delivers just what you’ve ordered – your renovation is fully managed from start to finish. We manage the trades // You won’t have to [...]
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 [...]
Closer shower head by Zucchetti
Introducing a revolutionary new product by Italian manufacturer Zucchetti. ‘Closer’ designed by Diego Grandi was launched in 2014 and looks set to cause a stir in the Australian market with its innovative and flexible take on the traditional static shower head. Resembling the form of a lamp with three moveable joints, the idea of Closer [...]
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 [...]
The West Australian | 2015 style forecast
Style forecast PELE FINDSON January 16, 2015, 2:00pm Picture: Edwards Moore for Dulux From colours to kitchens, five industry insiders share their predictions for the trends that will shape our homes in 2015. THE FURNITURE RETAILER The style gurus at Perth showroom designFARM are forecasting that our love affair with mid-century Danish design will [...]
Introducing the Agora Collection by Zucchetti.Kos
Agora is a complete bathroom collection designed by Ludovica+Roberto Palomba which includes taps and accessories (by Zucchetti) and a free-standing bathtub and washbasin (by Kos). The designers have re-worked a project from the Zucchetti archives where they have kept the original imprint from 1930’s and added contemporary details. A classically elegant collection, the lines of [...]
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 [...]
Macalister Mansion Malaysia
“A 100-year-old colonial mansion is the basis for Macalister Mansion, a quirky yet sophisticated lifestyle-orientated residence where visitors can experience Penang’s rich heritage – without even leaving the building.” Completed in 2012, the Macalister Mansion in Penang’s Georgetown is the first Malaysian member of Design Hotels. This cutting edge boutique hotel pays homage to Penang’s [...]
Fenix benchtops continue to WOW!
Arpa Industriale’s newest technology, ‘Fenix NTM’ continues to make waves in the interior design industry with Darren & Dee from The Block Glasshouse choosing to use this revolutionary material on their Apartment 6 Kitchen. Suitable for both horizontal and vertical surfaces, this exciting new matte surface product is soft to touch, anti-fingerprint and very durable [...]
Make your own idea book on Houzz.com.au
Get on board Houzz.com.au and make your own ‘ideabook’ with all the amazing Houzz images to choose from. It is a great way to share & collate ideas and imagery if you are planning a renovation. To see the Retreat Design Ideabook and Houzz profile complete with images from some of our projects, please click [...]
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 [...]
Timeless luxury | Dado baths
At Retreat Design we love the understated luxury of Dado baths with their grand proportions and timeless beauty. Manufactured in South Africa, the stone baths are made from DADOquartz – a unique, hand finished material which offers state of the art properties including heat retention, high resistance to stains & abrasion and a smooth non-porous [...]
Altamarea Bathroom | Now available at Retreat Design
We are now the official distributor of Altamarea bathroom products in Australia. Have a look at the seriously beautiful ‘Must’ collection. We will have this basin in our showroom in early September. For further information on the range please call one of our designers today or take a look at the Altamarea web page for [...]
Elegant Gessi Goccia bathroom range
Here at Retreat Design we love Gessi’s Italian designed and crafted products which are sure to make a statement in your bathroom…. The Gessi Goccia bathroom range is an innovative design inspired by the natural shapes of water with a beautiful winding spout. Designed by Prospero Rasulo, this range of elegant tap ware, basins and [...]
Minipool makes grand entrance to the Nobu Hotel
The Zucchetti. Kos Minipool designed by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba recently made a grand flying entrance to the Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace in where else but…. Las Vegas! Having travelled across the seas from Italy, this luxurious free-standing hot tub was then air lifted by helicopter on to the hotel rooftop for its final resting [...]
Morphing Collection by Zucchetti. Kos
Designed by Ludovica+Roberto Palomba for Zucchetti.Kos, the Morphing Collection has been awarded the prestigious Honourable Mention at the ADI 2014 Compasso d’Oro in the ‘Design for living category’. Having already received multiple international design awards including the Good Design Award 2011 and the ADI Design Index 2011, the success of the Morphing Collection looks set [...]
Innovative Fenix NTM® surface treatment for kitchens
Introducing an exciting new interior design material for use on vertical and horizontal surfaces – Fenix NTM® by Arpa Industriale. This innovative surface treatment has caught our eye and looks set to become a game changer in the kitchen design industry. As seen in Milan at EuroCucina 2014, the trend towards matt and tactile surfaces [...]
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 [...]
Tubes Radiators | Stylish Heating Solutions
With our recent spell of chilly mornings and winter just around the corner, it is fitting to announce that Perth is catching up with Europe and the rest of Australia with the use of Hydronic (water) heating throughout the home. One of the most energy efficient ways to heat your home, water based heating will [...]
Milan Furniture Fair 2014 – Bathroom Trends
Bathrooms at the Salone Internazionale del Bagno 2014 (Milan Design Week) were also warm and organic this year with wood finishes, tonal colours and bold bath and tap ware making appearances. Key designs from this year’s exhibitors were: Organic and Timber Finishes: Featuring lots of warm and inviting colours this year, the bathrooms relied [...]
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 [...]
Effeti in Milan
Brera, Milan, was teeming with people during the Salone Furniture Fair 2014. During the week, Effeti Cucine hosted an exclusive event in the busy design hub of Brera. As the exclusive distributors of Effeti Cucine in Australia we were lucky enough to attend, albeit with our three rowdy children in tow! A sincere thankyou [...]
Introducing Natalie Carter
Natalie has a degree in Interior Design and recently moved to Perth from her hometown in Melbourne. With a strong background in design and project management, Nat is a forward thinker who is committed to achieving the best results for her clients. Natalie has an engaging, dynamic and enthusiastic personality. She has a keen interest [...]
Introducing Lisa Giusti Gestri
We are pleased to welcome interior designer Lisa Giusti Gestri to our team at Retreat Design! Lisa has a Degree in Industrial Design and with a Major in Interior Design from the University of Florence, Italy. She loves to help customers look for inspiration, explore material choices, and feels completely comfortable with the planning and remodeling process. Lisa’s interest in the arts and music adds [...]
Tubes radiators have arrived in store!
We are excited to announce that our Tubes Radiators from Italy have arrived in the showroom….. Just in time for the Perth summer!!?! The ‘Milano’ Tubes Radiators (pictured) can be ordered as an electric or water version with both wall mounted and floor standing models available. Thanks to a special support base, the free-standing version [...]
Welcome 2014
We’ve just welcomed in 2014 and yet the year seems to be flying by with February a day away! Looking back at 2013, we are astonished at the year we’ve had. We welcomed baby number three into our family, transformed an amazing amount of kitchens, bathrooms and laundry’s and began our first commercial project, a 60 [...]
Farewell to a talented interior architect
We are sad to announce Shaye Starr, an integral member of our kitchen design team, will be leaving the company. Shaye started with Retreat Design in 2011 and we were immediately impressed with her tenacity, attention to detail, exceptional interior architecture skills as well as her excellent customer service ethic. Shaye has worked closely with many clients who [...]
Oceanna 29 Project
After many months in planning, we recently embarked on our first multi-storey development with Diploma Construction. Oceanna, a boutique apartment complex in Scarborough features spacious, open plan apartments, will be fitted out with our stylish Italian kitchen, bathroom and laundry cabinetry. The management of the installation has been left in the capable hands of our project manager, Josh Pretorius and we [...]
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 [...]
Luxe By the Beach
Retreat Design recently transformed a well loved family home into a luxe beachside pad. The mutual understanding between designer and owners allowed for an amazing result, reflecting the clients style whilst also remaining functional for their changing family needs. For their bathroom, the designer used Karol’s Urban chic in white high gloss veneer coupled with [...]
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 [...]
Modern round home by Ciel Rouge
This modern round home designed by Ciel Rouge takes its prized spot cliffside overlooking the sea. With offices in Paris and Tokyo, the cosmopolitan architecture firm thought outside the box when designing this amazing round house – literally. Straying from convention in concept and in practice, this contemporary style house features a rounded facade dotted [...]
Rifra – Bel Air Residence
Rifra recently fitted all the bathrooms in an exclusive Bel Air residence in Los Angeles. The KForty and Zero ranges were used to create modern yet warm spaces. The master bathroom is stunning with a free standing egg Rifra bath coupled with chandelier for a bit of luxury and sophistication. This post was [...]
Kitchen Renovation in Applecross
This large family home in Applecross was undergoing a complete overhaul. The home featured modern architecture and the clients wanted a kitchen that reflected a modern, yet classic and timeless style. Products used: Effeti Diamante kitchen range with customized wenge finish, available exclusively to Retreat Design Integrated Miele appliances and Simens domino hot-plate Black granite [...]
Win $5,000 off your kitchen
Go into the draw to win $5,000 off your kitchen! At Retreat Design we are giving away a hefty discount on a kitchen to a friend on Facebook. Become our friend on Facebook before the 23rd June 2012 to go into the draw. The winner will be contacted individually via Facebook and/or email. The winner [...]
Recent kitchens around $25k, by Retreat Design
I am often questioned about the affordability of our products…I take this as a compliment as I assume it is because they look (and are) so awesome!!! We work for clients with all ranges of budgets, below are a smattering of jobs we have recently done for around $25,000. All these jobs used exclusive Italian manufactured cabinetry, designed [...]
Bathroom Trends – Euro Cucina 2012
I am well and truely back to the grind, but the inspiration I gained at Euro Cucina is still fresh in my mind. For bathrooms the big trend was the continuation of creating luxury retreats. Softer and mutted colour pallets are being used to create the sense of a sanctuary within the home. Bathroom cabinetry [...]
Euro Cucina, Milan, April 2012
Business Owner, Steve Johnson, is currently at Euro Cucina in Milan to check the latest in furniture, kitchen and bathroom trends. The show has proved that even with all the doom and gloom of the slowing ecomony, people have flocked in the thousands to experience the latest design trends. Euro Cucina is HUGE! 6 [...]
Bathroom renovation tips
After a pretty busy 2011, which included many bathroom renovations of varying degrees of trickiness, I’ve decided to share my hot tips to make sure your bathroom renovation is a success. I’ve skipped the obvious stuff about doing your research, getting a functional as well as beautiful design and setting a realistic budget. Instead, below [...]
Effeti’s Global Projects
Being a worldwide distributor of kitchen cabinetry, Effeti has a portfolio of stunning kitchen projects completed in countries around the globe. This is a kitchen recently completed in Hong Kong and is a great example of what can be done with clever cabinetry design and lighting to create space in tight areas. We can learn [...]
Villa Veth in Hattem, the Netherlands
Description from the architects: Between forest and meadows lies a varied landscape. High, dry, sandy dunes interspersed with heather, willow bushes and grasslands. An ideal setting if you like the outdoors, like the inhabitants of this villa in Hattem. The living area of this bungalow with woodland is orientated to the south. So [...]
Colorful Pedestal Sink by Wet – New Fusion ii
The new Fusion II by Wet is a colorful pedestal sink with many colorful options for its inner basin. Without the colors, the sink makes a strong contemporary statement, given its cylindrical shape and heavy demeanor. But with the colors, it’s pretty bold, in a fun way. Designed by Jan Puylaert, the pedestal sink measures [...]
Amazing Bathtubs by Manuel Dreesmann
Gone are the days of the utilitarian, boring bathroom – welcome the new “wave” of amazing bathtubs, from German designer Manuel Dreesmann and Swiss bathroom brand Bagno Sasso. The Ocean Wave and the Ocean Wing bathtubs are made of Corian, notable for their wonderful organic look and feel. Their sculptural silhouettes, featuring “waves” and “wings” [...]
Modern antique bathroom vanities, consoles, mirrors – Bisazza Wanders Collection
A wonderful mix of styles, the new Wanders Collection by Bisazza is exceptionally elegant. The modern antique bathroom vanities, consoles, mirrors and accessories for the bathroom are governed by the classy achromatic color scheme, black and white. The washbasins are from the Soap Bath Series and are sleek and modern with a smooth curved form [...]
Japanese wall tiles – ‘Dent Cube’ by Inax
These great mosaic wall tiles, inspired by the Japanese culture and aesthetic have been created for Inax, also a Japanese company, and called ‘Dent Cube’. The designer, Teruo Yasuda, decided to bring together glass and porcelain at different depths for a truly unique effect. The wall tiles allow for captivating reflections and shadows which when [...]
Cool wash basin by Marmorin
brand Marmorin is thinking outside the box (or basin, if you will) with its cool new Sirona wash basin design. Straying from convention in preference of the unusual, this freestanding wash basin sink has a light, delicate aesthetic comparable to fine china, finished in pure white. Its perforated base is inspired by the way light [...]
Illuminated bathtub by Treesse – Dream
What could be sleeker than this illuminated bathtub Dream by Treesse? It uses the Ghost System, an exclusive Treesse patent, which allows for all the benefits of a luxury spa bath experience without having to look at any of the technology or hardware behind it. It makes for a truly magical experience – like a [...]
Minimalist shower column by Treesse with folding head
What could be sleeker than this illuminated bathtub Dream by Treesse? It uses the Ghost System, an exclusive Treesse patent, which allows for all the benefits of a luxury spa bath experience without having to look at any of the technology or hardware behind it. It makes for a truly magical experience – like a [...]
Wave shaped house in Bondi Beach, Australia
Wave shaped house is an ultra-modern and apt addition to the sun, sand and surf. This Australian beach house designed by Brian Meyerson Architects is inspired by the water with its unusual wave shape and cool aesthetic. Set in a suburb of Sydney at Bondi Beach, this contemporary style home strikes a chord with its [...]
Elegant washbasin kalla by Mastella Design
The Kalla (short) washbasin by Mastella Design is simply modern and elegant and extremely pleasing to the eye. It is made of a single piece of Cristalplant and seems to be folded or curved into an organic shape resembling a curled leaf. It’s natural beauty and simple aesthetic are sure to enhance the calm fluid [...]
Sub-Zero refrigerators gotta love those Hinges
Pros: At only 600mm deep it builds in flush to the kitchen cabinets but because of the width the capacity is the biggest you can buy in a single side by side frige unit. Two motors mean the refrigerator and freazer temperature control are completely separate so the frige stays relatively moist so veges and [...]
Flat bathroom sinks Laufen – Living Square
Clean lines and a super-slim silhouette characterize these ultra-modern flat bathroom sinks by Laufen. The Living Square collection features a ceramic “tablet” for its sink and countertop, which seems to hover before the bathroom wall. We love the open base and the matching ceramic shelf, which isn’t much flatter than the sink itself! Store towels, [...]
Integrated shower head by Zazzeri: a ‘crack in the ceiling’
Stimulate both your body and mind with water, color and light, all interwoven in this innovative and versatile ‘crack in the ceiling’ – the integrated shower head by Zazzeri. Designed by IS’ Daniele Bedini, the Virgin shower head seamlessly integrates into the ceiling, being a natural continuation of the bath decor, both in appearance and [...]
The Good Residence by Crone Partners
Crone Partners Melbourne office has designed the Good Residence in Sandringham, Victoria. Embracing the challenge of a relatively tight inner suburban location, and restrictive building envelope, the designers worked closely with the client to rationalise their “wish list” into a concise and deliverable brief. Little was lost in this process and even less in [...]
Dado “New kid on the Aussie block” and its baths rocks…
Dado Australia entered the Australian market early in 2008, but its products are not new to the rest of the world. The Dado group already supplies quality baths and basins to design houses in Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and South Africa. Dado manufactures stone products since 1998 and is one of only [...]
22 Bayview Tce Mosman Park
Have just completed a project working with Neil Magro from Prestige Property Group, built by Pironi Builders, Stunning kitchen from Effeti’s diamante range, solid oak doors in natural palette, Agento Bianco granite bench top from Bernini sourced by the owner. Draws had essetre cutlery trays as well as utensils and knife set and pots, appliances [...]
Minotti Kitchen – new atelier kitchen design in natural stone (Nuova Atelier)
Taking minimalism to a whole new level, the Nuova Atelier Kitchen by Minotti uses only natural materials to create an air of precisely ordered serenity. With a simplistic, and quite ingenious, back-to-basics approach Minotti have created an imposing atmosphere befitting a monastery. Everything is hidden, including the built-in appliances, within cool, composed natural stone. Porphyry [...]
Modern black and white bathroom fixtures by Mastella
Dark and dramatic on the outside, pure inside – these modern black and white bathroom fixtures by Mastella are a gorgeous contradiction. The contemporary, freestanding Party bathtubs and the freestanding Body washbasins designed by architect Oriano Favaretto boast a bold shape and a classic color palette that loves every style, modern, contemporary or traditional. The [...]
Slim bathtubs by Kos – New Geo
In small spaces, these slim bathtubs by Kos are in their element! The new Geo bathtub comes in 170×70 and 180×80 dimensions, sizes that feel much larger than they are thanks to the ultra-thin walls. Between the inner and outer shell, the tub’s technical elements are concealed, resulting in a clean, minimalist design. In small [...]
A home inside of a home
This is the story of a home inside of a home: Once upon a time a banker and an antique book collector bought a piece of land where sat a lonely, yellow abode. The new owners began stripping away the yellow paint as their first task, which revealed to their great surprise some ancient and [...]
Wild bathroom sinks by Ceramica Cielo – Jungle
Italian company Ceramica Cielo is proving that in the world of fashion and design, it’s a jungle out there! Delivering splashy sink style, the Jungle collection of bathroom sinks is totally wild in every sense of the word. The company has taken a haute-couture approach to design, with “fashion edition” releases coming every year. This [...]
Modular toilet by Geberit – Monolith
The Monolith is the latest modular toilet by Geberit that gives this decidedly unglamorous fixture some serious style. By hiding the clunky cistern behind a cool glass panel, this contemporary toilet gets a clever makeover and does away with the unsightly aspects of traditional toilets. The glass comes in the classic bathroom hues of black [...]
Come see us at the home base expo Subiaco
The team at Retreat Design are excited about the launch of our new fancy website. Sincere thank you to the team at Media on Mars for doing a fantastic job, turning our vague ideas into a beautiful design and actuality. We are also putting the finishing touches to our display at the Home Base [...]
Oval bathroom suites by Ceramica Cielo – Le Giare
We love the chic, simple style of the Le Giare bathroom suite by Ceramica Cielo. Presented at Cersaie 2011 in Bologna, Italy this fall, this new design by Claudio Silvestrin features elegant oval contours and fluid lines executed in cool ceramic – all inspired by the egg. The sink, toilet and bidet come in wall-mounted [...]
Load More
Write a Reply or Comment