Latest news with #coastalliving
Times
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Times
How we gave a chintz-filled Kent villa an arty makeover
Quitting the city buzz for a simple life by the sea seems to go one of two ways: deep regret or coastal convert. Ben Cotton, the founder and director of east London gallery Hang-Up, and his partner, Danielle Reddi, a doctor, decided to ease themselves gently into life in Walmer, a peaceful little seaside town next to Deal in Kent. While they were still living in a Victorian terrace in Stoke Newington, north London, they bought a holiday flat down here. 'Walmer is going through an interesting time with lots of creative people moving to the area,' Cotton says. The family — the couple have two sons aged ten and eight — were staying here when Covid struck. 'We had the luxury of sea views, big skies and a sense of space. Back in London, we always went to the same park, but here we had so many different places for our daily walks,' Reddi says. 'When we eventually went back to London, we had a moment of clarity and decided to make a life down in Kent. We moved back into the flat and started house-hunting,' Cotton recalls. Having befriended a local estate agent, Cotton was able to view this place before it even came onto the market and they snapped it up. 'It's a beautiful house, right by the sea but with a totally private garden. We were very lucky,' Cotton says. The house is a large one — many of its neighbours have been divided into two homes — and is originally Georgian with Victorian additions. But when the couple first viewed it, the era that screamed out at them was the Eighties, with chintz curtains, patterned wallpaper and a kitchen divided between two tiny rooms. • Read more expert advice on property, interiors and home improvement It was the problem of the kitchen that saw them bring Studio Ulanowski on board. Straddling architecture and interior design, and with bases in both Kent and London, the practice felt like a good fit. Having come up with plans to create a new heart-of-the-home kitchen in the former dining room — think olive green cabinets, richly veined marble counters and Portland stone floors — architect Eryk Ulanowski's role spread to encompass the whole house. 'The brief was to hold on to as much of the original house as possible, but to make it feel more current. We wanted bold colours and playful elements. And it had to work as a family home, even as the boys grow up,' explains Reddi. The new boot room is perfect for kids trailing in from school or the beach, with nooks for each person's stuff. From there, the boys can move into the den/playroom next door, or take their own staircase — once the servants' back stairs — up to their colourful bedrooms and shared bathroom. 'At the moment, they love hanging out with us, but the house is prepared for when they become more independent,' says Reddi. As well as their own suite and a guest suite, the couple, who both work in London two days a week, have their own offices upstairs. Cotton often does yoga in the new gym, once the kitchen. Next to the couple's bedroom, another room shares the same balcony and sea view. Having toyed with making it a dressing room, the pair decided, with Ulanowski's guidance, on a far more fun alternative: a cocktail snug. 'In the summer, we use this for relaxing with the kids after dinner, but it's also a late-night hangout with friends,' Reddi says. Given that Cotton has his own gallery, it's no surprise that the house has been designed around his art collection, such as the Grayson Perry etching hanging over the kitchen hearth and the Kostas Papakostas over the snug's sofa. 'Some pieces are permanent and some will come and go. Hang-Up balances work by big names including Banksy, Andy Warhol, Basquiat, Tracey Emin and Bridget Riley, alongside helping younger artists to gain exposure.' Here at home, Cotton has curated a collection of artists with a local connection such as Studio Lenca (based at Emin's TKE Studios in Margate). With the art collection in mind, Ulanowski devised a palette of complex, nuanced colours, inspired by the local landscape, which flit between light and dark as you move from room to room. 'We always knew we wanted a change from art gallery white,' Cotton says. The house is also elevated by bespoke joinery throughout — with everything from the kitchen cabinets to the living room display shelves crafted by another former Londoner, Hazel Thomson of Harbour Joinery Workshop in Ramsgate. 'Hazel's designs helped to make the whole house feel cohesive and considered,' Cotton says. The pair admit that it took them a while to feel settled here but now have'an amazing network of friends, mainly through the kids' school', Cotton says. For both of them, coastal living has been a huge part of the appeal. Reddi loves to soak in the bath or sit in bed with a cup of tea, drinking in the sea views. She sometimes joins Cotton's morning swim group on warmer days, although he swims all year round. 'It's a fantastic way to start the day and even if it's tough getting in, you never regret doing it. Living by the sea has made us feel more healthy and closer to nature.'
News.com.au
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
Silverchair star Daniel Johns' huge move after demolishing home
Aussie singer Daniel Johns is selling off a block of land, just two months after demolishing his Newcastle home and splitting the site into two lots. Robinson Property's Amanda and Kirk Langlands are handling the sale of the 967.5 square metre Merewether vacant block with expressions of interest. 'For over three years, rock legend Daniel Johns searched across the country – from Tasmania's wild coastlines to the tranquil towns of southern NSW – for somewhere new to call home,' the 1/8 Charlotte Street listing reads. 'But despite all that exploration, nothing ever came close to this one. One place kept pulling him back. Charlotte Street, Merewether.' Billed as one of the area's 'most exclusive cul-de-sacs', the oversized block offers panoramic views stretching from Merewether Beach across the Pacific and out toward the Stockton dunes. Charlotte Street is located just 1.2 kilometres from the ocean baths, beach bars and cafes. 'This is your chance to secure what even one of Australia's most well-travelled couldn't walk away from,' the listing reads. 'It represents the pinnacle of coastal living. And yet, it remains quiet, private, and wonderfully elevated above it all … 'If you've been waiting for a sign to create your forever home by the sea, this is it. Opportunities this rare don't come twice.' Johns purchased the five bedroom property in 2000 for $1.4 million. In May, he knocked down the home after 25 years. The Silverchair frontman explained he demolished the house to 'unlock the site's full potential' and offer one of the two blocks to market. 'This place has been a huge part of my life and creativity, but it's time for something new that reflects where I'm at now and what's next,' Johns said in a statement supplied to the media. Last year, the rock star sold his long-time home in Merewether for a massive $2.75 million. According to property records a 17-year-old Johns bought the four-bedroom home that sits on Rancloud St for $360,000 in May 1996 as Silverchair was beginning to take the music world by storm. The home was one of several investment properties the musician bought. It was last listed for rent for $850 per week in July 2020. Johns also owns two properties nearby, according to property records, one of which is where he lives. Johns has been a savvy real estate investor. In 2016, he sold his top floor Bondi Beach apartments for a nice earner. Silverchair has sold over 10 million albums worldwide, with Johns also embarking on a successful solo career.
Zawya
17-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Zawya
Bonds Avenue Residences redefines coastal wellness through smart architecture and healthy living
Dubai, UAE: In today's fast-evolving world, home has taken on new meaning. It is no longer simply a place to reside in. It is a sanctuary for rejuvenation, connection, and personal well-being. This concept comes to life through a wellness-first approach at Bonds Avenue Residences, a signature project of Amirah Developments, on Dubai Islands that is capturing the imagination of what modern coastal living should feel like. Conveniently located on Dubai Islands next to the historic Deira and Shindagha districts, Bonds Avenue Residences is just ten minutes away from Dubai International – the world's busiest airport and five minutes away from the Gold Souq – one of the world's largest gold and diamond jewellery retail markets – that will redefine its value in the coming years as the most desired destination to live. Surrounded by over 21 kilometres of uninterrupted beach on Dubai Islands, Bonds Avenue Residences is designed to serve as a lifestyle retreat that integrates movement, mindfulness, and nature into daily life. With dedicated yoga decks, outdoor padel courts, and landscaped gardens throughout the community, residents are offered more than luxury - they are offered balance. The wellness philosophy at Bonds Avenue Residences begins with the morning. Residents can ease into their day with a sunrise yoga session on open-air decks positioned to catch the gentle sea breeze. These decks are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also create space for focused breathing, flexibility, and clarity, setting the tone for a grounded day ahead. More than a fitness amenity, the yoga areas reflect a growing desire among UAE residents for homes that support mental well-being as much as physical health. For those seeking active recreation, Bonds Avenue Residences features outdoor padel courts that bring together fitness and fun in equal measure. The sport, which has surged in popularity across the UAE, is fast-paced yet accessible, providing residents of all ages a way to stay active while also building community. Located within a lushly landscaped setting, the courts offer a casual, energising alternative to indoor gyms. The development's wider layout supports a wellness rhythm that flows through every aspect of community life. Landscaped gardens and walkways invite leisurely strolls, mindful moments, and connection with the natural world. Shaded seating areas and open green spaces provide room to disconnect from screens and reconnect with self, family, or neighbours. Together, these elements create an environment that promotes healthy routines without effort. This thoughtful integration of body and mind is not just a design choice, it is a response to real demand. In recent years, the UAE has seen a marked shift in resident preferences, with wellness emerging as a top priority in residential communities. Surveys have shown that over 80 percent of homebuyers in Dubai now consider health-focused amenities such as green space, walkability, and active lifestyle zones essential when selecting a home. The UAE government's own National Wellbeing Strategy 2031 further reflects this shift, placing long-term quality of life at the centre of national development goals. In line with this vision, Bonds Avenue Residences represents a new era of living one that blends luxury with longevity, and design with intention. Speaking about the development's wellness philosophy, Mr. Muhammad Yousuf Jafrani, Founder and Chairman of Amirah Developments, shared, 'We believe true luxury today lies in how a space makes you feel. At Bonds Avenue Residences, we have created an environment that supports calm, clarity, and vitality, offering our residents not just a home, but a daily experience of wellness.' Located on Dubai Islands, Bonds Avenue Residences also provides residents with quick access to Souq Al Marfa, Dubai Creek, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai International Airport. The nearby Gold Souq Metro Station ensures ease of movement across the city, while the upcoming Night Souq and Dubai Islands Marina will further elevate the area into a vibrant lifestyle hub. In every detail from morning yoga to evening walks Bonds Avenue Residences delivers a community that nurtures both body and mind. It is a rare intersection of design, wellness, and waterfront living, tailored for a new generation that values peace, presence, and purpose in where they live. About Amirah Developments Amirah Developments is a Dubai-based real estate company committed to redefining urban living through architectural sophistication, sustainability, and thoughtful design. Founded by Mr. Muhammad Yousuf Jafrani, a seasoned real estate entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in the UAE, the company is anchored in a vision of creating communities that inspire and endure. Driven by innovation and design excellence, Amirah Developments builds more than residences — it crafts livable works of art. Each project is a reflection of refined luxury, environmental responsibility, and long-term value. With a team comprising top architects, designers, and planners, the company ensures global best practices are adapted for the local landscape. Sustainability is central to Amirah's ethos, with developments emphasizing energy efficiency, walkability, and well-being. By focusing on elegance, functionality, and community integration, the company is shaping the next chapter of Dubai's real estate evolution. With the launch of its debut project, Bonds Avenue on Dubai Islands, Amirah introduces a new benchmark in waterfront living blending lifestyle innovation with a striking architectural vision. This marks the beginning of Amirah Development's journey to become a lasting force in the UAE's premium property sector. About Bonds Avenue Residences Bonds Avenue Residences is the inaugural development by Amirah Developments, setting a bold standard for upscale living on the iconic Dubai Islands. Designed as a sculptural expression of form and function, Bonds Avenue Residences offers a selection of one- to three-bedroom apartments, three-bedroom townhouses and triplexes, and exclusive four-bedroom penthouses. The architecture reflects a corner less, flowing design philosophy- maximizing space, natural light, and unobstructed sea views. Each residence is thoughtfully planned to deliver both aesthetic appeal and modern comfort, enhanced by smart layouts and premium finishes. Amenities at Bonds Avenue Residences include infinity pools, wellness zones, yoga decks, landscaped gardens, padel courts, and dedicated children's areas, all curated to foster holistic, family-oriented lifestyles. The community is seamlessly connected to the rest of Dubai, with quick access to Downtown Dubai, Dubai International Airport, and the Gold Souq Metro Station. Situated in a master-planned coastal environment with over 21 kilometres of beaches and vibrant urban offerings, Bonds Avenue Residences is a destination of both serenity and connectivity. With a 60/40 payment plan and handover in Q1 2027, it caters to investors and homeowners seeking lasting value, architectural brilliance, and beachfront elegance in one of Dubai's most promising locales.
UAE Moments
16-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- UAE Moments
Beachside Mess? Check How to Clean Up Salt & Sand Like a Pro
Living near the coast? Lucky you! Beach days, sea breeze, and stunning sunsets come with the territory. But so does something less dreamy: the never-ending battle with salty air and sand build-up. If your windows look foggy, your car feels gritty, and your floors constantly crunch underfoot—you're not alone. In coastal regions like the Gulf, this is a common cleaning struggle. Salty air corrodes, sand invades every crevice, and humidity doesn't make things any easier. But don't worry—we've got cleaning hacks that'll have your space sparkling (and salt-free) in no time. 1. Rinse Before You Wipe Salt is sneaky—it sticks to surfaces and attracts moisture. Before wiping anything down (especially glass), rinse with clean water first. This avoids scratching and spreads the salt evenly for easy removal. Think of it as a pre-wash for your home. 2. Windows Need Extra TLC Foggy or streaky windows? Thank salty sea air. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and wipe with a microfiber cloth for crystal-clear views. Do this at least once a week to prevent long-term damage. 💡 Pro tip: Rinse window sills too—salt loves to settle there and can cause rust if ignored. 3. Beach-Proof Your Floors Sand. Gets. Everywhere. Even when you didn't go to the beach. Use doormats inside and outside every entryway and get into the habit of shaking out rugs weekly. If your floors are always gritty, vacuum daily using a machine with a HEPA filter. Got tiles or marble? Mop with warm water and a splash of vinegar or floor-safe soap to break down salt film and keep things fresh. 4. Keep Your Car Clean (Yes, Even If It's Parked) Salty air clings to your car's paint and undercarriage, accelerating rust. If you're near the coast, aim to rinse your car weekly—even if you haven't driven. Don't forget the wheels and underside! Apply a protective wax every few months to shield the paint job from corrosion. If your windows start looking hazy, a diluted vinegar spray works wonders here too. 5. Shake Out Sand (Before It Hits the Floor) Create a "shake zone" just outside your front door. Whether it's a welcome mat, a mini brush station, or even a spot to stash sandy flip-flops and toys—this small habit cuts down on indoor mess. Bonus: keep a handheld vacuum nearby for quick cleanups. 6. Wipe Down Outdoor Furniture Often Salt build-up isn't just annoying—it can damage your patio furniture. Clean surfaces weekly with mild dish soap and warm water, then rinse well. For metal pieces, finish with a light coat of car wax or a rust-prevention spray. Cushions? Shake, vacuum, and sun-dry to keep mold and mildew at bay. 7. Air-Purifying Plants to the Rescue Yes, houseplants! Certain plants like peace lilies, spider plants, and snake plants help purify indoor air and trap airborne salt and dust particles. Plus, they bring in those good Gulf vibes. 8. Rotate and Refresh Salt and sand love to hide in overlooked areas—under the couch, behind curtains, and in sliding door tracks. Make it a monthly habit to do a deep refresh: Vacuum furniture cushions and under rugs Clean window and door tracks Wash curtains or wipe blinds with a damp cloth 9. Protective Coatings for the Win If you're living close to the shore full-time, consider anti-corrosion treatments for metal fixtures, door handles, appliances, and even plumbing. A little prevention goes a long way in Gulf humidity. 10. Don't Fight It Alone—Go Digital Apps like Tody or Sweepy help you create a custom cleaning schedule. Track salt-prone zones and set reminders for tasks like 'rinse outdoor windows' or 'vacuum beach sand off car mats.' Cleaning can be satisfying… even fun? Beach Vibes Without the Grit You shouldn't have to choose between sea views and a clean home. With just a few smart habits, salty air and sandy floors don't stand a chance. Whether you're living in a Gulf-front apartment or a beach villa, staying ahead of build-up will make your space feel breezy, fresh, and Instagram-worthy all year long.
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Serena & Lily Is Having a Tent Sale—and Items Are up to 70% Off
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Serena & Lily screams summer with its easy, breezy style. The home and decor brand has become synonymous with the aspirational coastal lifestyle (hello, fans of Nancy Meyers interiors!), with its beach-inspired colors and signature furnishings made from rattan, linen, and other natural materials. And now, Serena & Lily just kicked off its spectacular tent sale, so you can bring some of the summer magic to your own home. From hanging rattan benches and area rugs to lamps and tableware, the brand is offering up to 70% off selected items right now. Whether you have a beach house in the Hamptons or just want to add some summer style to your home, this sale ensures that you can get what you need at a steep discount. The best part? You'll score free domestic ground shipping, and your discount is automatically applied at checkout (no promo code necessary). Here, we've rounded up our favorite pieces from the Serena & Lily tent sale. Happy shopping!1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at Retailer1.00 at RetailerYou Might Also Like Spectacular Gifts for the Most Stylish Women in Your Life 16 Gorgeous Indoor Plants for Homes of All Sizes
