NEW ARRIVALS!!...LINDA VARIO ART.....INTRODUCING OUR MATE SCOTT...LUSTFUL FRIDAY RECIPE....GUAVA MOCKTAILS & SUFFERING SOCRATES!!...HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL! xx

NEW ARRIVALS!

Seasoned visitors to our store will know that every time they step inside theres something new and interesting to see...the only downside is that the new pieces dont last for long!

So, heres a sneak peek for you.

We only select interesting, earthy pieces that you wont necessarily be able to find elsewhere.

And of course if theres anything that you see and feel you simply 'must have' we are only a phone call away for more information, or come visit us at 59 Doggett St. Newstead. Ph. 07 38526002

 How's this for a cutie...and even better in the flesh...this rustic side cabinet is just divine and wont last!

 What about these side tables/stools...made from old wooden cart wheels...and thats what you'll be doing over these....cartwheels!...they are just gorgeous and so handy to have as a large stool or side table.  Perfect in a raw finish.

 Stop the clocks!...this amazing wooden bench seat/long coffee table ticks all the boxes and more.  Lovers of rustic will be going completely over the top at this amazing piece.  We only have the one of these but also have similar in an altar table style....ask us for more info.

 This rustic red chinese low cabinet is perfect for those who need something with a bit of soul to put the flat screen on, or as a versatile piece for the lounge/bedroom or living areas.  Still in its original hand painted condition.

 This handpainted side cabinet will not last.  We have a pair of them available.  Stunning!

This rice collection bucket is available now.  In its original handpainted condition in soft grey/blue tonings.

Would look fantastic as a centrepiece as its quite large - 500 x 500 

IN THE HOUSE WITH ARTIST LINDA VARIO

Good Interior Design is quite multi-faceted.  To define ourselves as being able to provide a service that encompasses all areas of design for interiors we take pride in giving our clients the option to also purchase original art pieces from our extensive collection via Michael Graham - Gallery 2120.

Click here to contact Michael Graham & Gallery 2120

Our featured artist for this blog is the talented and creative Linda Vario.  We have the fortune of having some of Lindas work in our showroom at the moment.  Her pieces are drawing quite a reaction from clientele, in particular her mesmerizing 'Money' series.

Linda Vario was born and educated in Adelaide, South Australia.

For the past 16 years Linda and her family have lived on the Sunshine Coast, drawn by the unique beauty and unequalled colour of this idyllic location.

Influences from the vast richness of art and culture in South Australia to the natural beauty of coastal Queensland are reflected in her art. This journey allowed her creative space to learn, explore and experiment in all aspects of painting, culminating in an ability to apply a broad spectrum of techniques to her work.

I had the privilege of being able to ask Linda about her art: 

 Linda, what was the inspiration for your 'money' series?

I created this series to depict the changing social conscience of Asia and in particular China.  Their new found capitalistic freedom has given rise to a “Starry Eyed” view of wealth and the rewards that consumerism can provide.  Financial success has become the juggernaut to which nothing can withstand.  Trailing in the wake of destruction is China’s rich and vibrant culture, it struggles to catch its breath and patch together some remnant of its once proud and regal traditions.

. Which piece is your favourite and why?
Each new piece I create becomes my all time, most favourite, can never part with it piece of art in the whole world – until I create the next one and then I can let the last one go.  Painting is such an intensely personal pastime; you pour your whole self into each and every creation.

 What is the most memorable response you have had to your work?

In one of the Galleries where my work was being exhibited a woman was standing in front of one of my artworks crying (sobbing) , the gallery owner thought she must have been upset about something and asked if she was OK and if she would like a glass of water.  She replied that the painting had moved her so much and touched a part of her soul – she bought the painting and to this day remains one of my collectors.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
The best advice I have ever been given is to; “Paint even when you don’t feel like it, do not wait until you feel inspired because when Inspiration comes He will find you working!”

 When you're not painting, what is your favourite way to relax and recharge?

I love reading – I run a book club where we all read the same book and then get together at the end of the month at a different restaurant each time to discuss the book – It is a great girls night out and explores the other two great loves of my life apart from art – food and reading.

Modern Artist Linda Vario creates intricate, visually stimulating works of resonating emotion and extravagant colour. She has mastered a rhythmical balance of harmonious and spontaneous expression, resulting in works of provocative form and emotive energy. Orchestrating a combination of mediums, layered to create high relief, tactile finishes with three dimensional impact, Linda’s work is unique and highly sought after. We invite you to visit some of Lindas work on exhibit now in our Showroom.

Some of Vario's work currently on show at Charcoal Interiors:

'Red Dragonfly'

'Saffron Green'

A sample of her 'Money' series...We just love it!

To discover more about Linda Vario Art please click on the link below:

Linda Vario Art Website

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VISITORS BEARING FABRICS...OOH LA LA

Introducing Scott, one of our wonderful fabric reps.

Scott pops in from time to time with new and exciting fabric samples.  He always...yes..always has a smile and is such a genuine guy.

Scotty lists his interests as the beach, spending time staying up late with friends.  Favourite band - Red Hot Chili Peppers, Favourite Food - Steak and Favourite Cocktail...well Mocktail is Guava Nectar with Sugar Free Lemonade....ooh yum!

We have decided to dedicate this weeks 'Mocktail'/Cocktail Friday to Scott...see below.....

Neutral...or Colour?...Scotty says Colour.

Heres the man himself.  Scotty today is wearing Saba and Sportscraft. :-)

Colette, Scott and Cath

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FRIDAY RECIPE!

Photo via sxc.hu

IN DEDICATION TO NEXT WEEKS VALENTINES DAY....OR ALTERNATIVELY 'SINGLES AWARENESS DAY' WE HAVE COME UP WITH SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT FOR THIS WEEKS RECIPE THEME...

PIZZA WITH LUST!

Ingredients:

12-14" pizza base

4 Tsp of Matchett's Lust

100g grated Mozzarella cheese

100g goat's curd

100g roasted red capsicum cut into strips

1/2 bunch of basil leaves

Method:

Preheat oven to 190degrees C

Spread the 'Lust' evenly across the pizza base

Sprinkle the Mozzarella over the top.

Bake on a low shelf in the oven for approx 10 - 15 mins.  Check the underside fo the pizza to make sure its evenly golden.

Cut pizza into 8 portions

Top each slice with a spoonful of goat's curd, capsicum and finally basil leaves and serve immediately.

Note: Mathchett's 'Lust' Paste (Chipotle' Pepper Chutney) is now available at Charcoal Gourmet Provisions.

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IT'S COCKTAIL FRIDAY!....AND WE'RE ON THE WAGON!

We figure that after the pummeling we have given our livers over the past couple of festive months, that its time to let it breathe...and so here is our version of a Guava Style Mocktail....The Beachcomber!

Beachcomber

10 parts guava nectar
2 parts raspberry syrup
4 parts fresh lime juice

Combine all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a tall glass to serve.

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The way to gain a good reputation, is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear. -Socrates

....And so until next week.  Thanks for stopping by the blog.  Take some time to smell the roses...hopefully the boxed red long stemmed ones that your love has bought you for Valentines Day!  

OUR COUNTRY HOME PROJECT...AND NOT A DOILY IN SIGHT!...OUT AND ABOUT AT THE JETTY RESTAURANT...THANKS TO A.P SIGNS....SOBA NOODLE SALAD...FLAMING SIDECARS! AND BUDDHA HAS HIS SAY....OR DOES HE??

COUNTRY HOME PROJECT

Usually when you hear the word 'Country' from a design perspective, it can conjur up mental images of Spindle Leg Tables, Old Fashioned Lace Drapery, Oil Lamp Lighting and dare we say it....Doily Accessorising!!...images that send us running for the hills screaming with arms flailing.

And so our return client from bayside Brisbane, contacted the girls with the exciting news of a new phase in her life and new home in the country.  She already had confidence in the girls from past projects...in her words..."You create interiors that 'hug'.."  We loved that.  She is a very warm, lovely lady and so the girls set to creating a home that reflected her personality and style.

Colette and Cathie go over the plans and discuss placement options

Initial consultation with Colette and Cathie was that she wanted a clean line with no clutter and a fusion of styles and cultures mixing her contemporary pieces with antiques.

As with prior projects she also clarified the need for quality and longeivity from the design...a space to invite and warm the senses.

As with every project, after the initial consultation with the client, comes the starting point with studying plans and architecture of design of the home to consider light, paint colours inside and out, flooring, furniture layouts per room etc...

And what about hard finishes for example?...is that something that we would also handle...and the answer is absolutely yes!

"All hard finishes and cabinetry detailing for kitchen and bathrooms were also designed and selected by the team.  In the kitchen, we maintained that overall sophisticated look and style of the interiors allowing balance of flow and functionality within the home."  Says Cathie...

And then the fun starts with colours and texture.  This process is given considerable time and energy to get it just right, and then its back to the client for her thoughts and input with a presentation.  "Usually", says Cathie "if we have listened and taken consideration to the clients wants and needs, there is not a lot of changes to be made from the original concept".

The house is almost at completion, with the next stage being what we call 'installation'...as the name suggests, this is another enjoyable component for the team, whereby they bring all furniture, drapery, soft furnishings etc into the home.  "It's always a thrill to see the delighted reaction of the client at this phase" says Colette.

And so, from the beginning to the end, our client has the self assurance that everything is done according to her initial vision which in turns alleviates the anxiety out of doing it herself.

This busy, professional lady now has the home that reflects her ideal and a space that she is happy to come home to.

We're really excited about showing you the finished home in the coming weeks.

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OUT AND ABOUT WITH STYLE IN THE CITY

The view from the front counter of The Jetty

A spur of the moment decision to venture out for lunch with the destination being 'The Jetty' Restaurant at Bulimba and what a treat.  

This is a restaurant that I had been to years before and found at the time that it didnt take advantage of the beautiful view and breezes of the Brisbane River....the building is set right on the river, and so with the new owners, they have taken grand steps to open up the design and bring the river and view to you.  I literally felt like I was on a boat.  And so we people watched as commuters alighted from the regular ferry drop-offs, sipped red wine and ate from the fresh, interesting menu.  Share plates are a great way to really sample the menu offerings and we had the Duo of Dips, Salt and pepper calamari plus a serving of the Spicy Salmon Cakes.  Next time we will be indulging in the oysters...they looked fabulous on our neighbours table.

People watching at the Ferry Dock...always so much more fun with a glass of red in hand.

I highly recommend the Jetty Restaurant on Oxford St at Bulimba.  Its so easy to find right at the end of Oxford and if you are early theres undercover car parking.  The place gets booked out pretty quickly due to the popularity, so be sure to either ring ahead or get in early.

http://www.thejettyoxford.com.au/

A SIGN OF DESIGN.....

Thank you so much to our friends from A.P Signs this week.

We have had a long standing relationship with Marc and the crew from A.P signs now and wouldnt go anywhere else for our signage needs.  Apart from being a terrific local business with skilled employees, they are also very nice people...and we like that!

This week, the lads installed our new Interior Design sign which now really defines our design consultation space at the back of the showroom.  Our clients can sit in the beautiful surroundings with a cup of tea....or depending on the time of day...a glass of wine??.....and discuss their home space transformation with the team.

Thank you to Marc and the crew at A.P Signs! 

To find out more about A.P Signs please click on the link below:

A P Signs

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SOBA NOODLE SALAD

Just in case you didnt know..this is what Soba Noodles look like

The first time I tried this dish was on a flight home to Brisbane.  They were out of what I really wanted off the menu, so I had to take the second and only other option which was a Soba Noodle Salad with Salmon and herbs on the top.  It was absolutely delicious and I was keen to find a good Soba Noodle Salad recipe in an attempt to replicate the flavours.

Our lunch this week....sooo good.

I had never had soba noodles before and didn't realise that not only are they delicious but also very healthy.  Traditionally made from buckwheat they are a very healthy alternative to pasta and the Japanese use them a lot in their cooking.

This is the recipe for the Soba Noodle Salad we had this week for lunch.  Just top with a small can of tuna and top with fresh herbs.  It really is very quick and easy to make and the flavours are divine!

Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

Soba Noodles - They usually come in a packet divided into 3 sections.  One section is enough for 2 people.

Thinly slice the following:

Capsicum

Snow Peas

Shallots

Wombok Cabbage

Chopped Coriander, Basil and Mint - Handful

METHOD

Add your soba noodles to a boiling pot of water and leave for approx 5 mins..check at 4 mins.  They cook just like pasta, only quicker, so be sure to check them frequently.  

Once cooked, transfer to a colander and immediately run them through cold water.  This is a very necessary step.  Cooling the noodles immediately stops them from cooking further.

Drizzle with olive oil while still in the colander and sprinkle with some lemon or lime juice so it really soaks it up.

Transfer to a bowl.

Add your sliced ingredients, herbs and then drizzle again with lemon or lime juice and soy sauce to your taste. Dont overdo the soy as you dont want it overpowering the flavours.

Top with chicken, tuna, salmon or just leave as it is!  Finish off with some sesame seeds and more chopped fresh herbs...

And...voila!  Enjoy.

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COCKTAILS ANYONE??

....CHEERS!

FLAMING SIDECAR COCKTAIL

Feeling in a slightly dangerous mood this Friday, we decided to try a cocktail that had been recommended by friends who were really knocked over (almost literally) by this latest find!

We loved it.  Its fresh with a twist.

Be sure to try this one when youre in one of those 'devil-may-care' moods.  Now, now...feet up...deep breath....cheeeeers.....xx

• 1 ounce brandy
• 3/4 ounce Cointreau
• 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Orange peel, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine all ingredients except the orange peel in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously and strain into a cocktail glass.
2. Garnish with orange peel.

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Do not speak- unless it improves on silence.....Buddhist saying

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Until next week.  Fun, friendship and folly....The Charcoal Team.

ITS OUT WITH THE BORING AND IN WITH THE BOLD, THE BIG AND THE BEAUTIFUL!...ANOTHER HAPPY CUSTOMER SENDS IN PHOTOS...BEEF SATAYS WITH A KICK!...PLUS! AUDREY AND THE APPLETINI!

BORING, BLAND AND BASIC ARE OUT....LET'S GET BEAUTIFUL!

Being the benefactors of all things beautiful, bold and brazen we would like to finish January off by reminding you about our design service here at Charcoal Interiors.

New curtains...done!

Splash of colour with wallpaper...done!

Property styling...done!

Complete home revamp....done!

Project Management...done!

Colour consultations...done!

Investment Property Fitouts....done!

Supreme cocktail making......done..done and done!....well on a Friday anyway..

But seriously, we are the place to come for all your Interior Design needs.  Sick of that boring, tired space that you just have no idea what to do with?  Call us for an appointment where we can either come to you, or sit back in our new Interior Design section....the perfect place to piece together a home space that will welcome you every single day of the year.

We are no fly-by-nighters with over 38 combined experience under our belts, so we know what works and we know what wont.  Our many satisfied clients are testament to our integrity, service and design processes.

Have you seen our latest Youtube instalment?  Do you love to be inspired??...who doesnt?!  Click on the link below and be sure to leave us a comment...we love hearing from you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDn4V_Hc75k

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HAPPY CLIENTS!

Thank you to our just lovely regular customer Susan who was so delighted with her recent acquisition of our gorgeous French Style Iron Based table, that she sent us in pics!

Susan, we think the table suits the space perfectly....and we just love your little friend...

Thank you for taking the time to send in these photos...we wish you many fun family times around your gorgeous new table...and many fond memories along with it.

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BEEF SATAY WITH PEANUT SAUCE

Since its been so humid here in Brisbane (but hey its Summer!) we have been doing a lot of barbecuing over the past few weeks.  Its nice to cook outside and saves the kitchen area from heating....ours is like a sauna at the best of times.  Our back deck is in line with our neighbours...about 4 of them...and we all seem to have the same idea at dinner time...cooking the barby with a glass of red or white in hand.  You just have to love Summer!  So, of an evening theres this big long line of back decks and people barbecuing and imbibing and lots of yelled greetings...cheers!  So much fun and of course another reason why we just love Summer so much...even President Obama enjoys the outdoor delights of the barbecue!

Image via White House Domain

This weeks recipe is all about Barbecuing and simple, satisfying and tasty food.  I first discovered the beef satay in Indonesia years ago and had to get my hands on the best authentic (yet easy...who wants to be standing over a mortar and pestle forever....?) beef /chicken satay recipe.  This one has been my favourite to date because it pretty much replicates the flavours from afar, yet its still quite easy to prepare.  We are having this dish tonight and I just prepared the day before and popped in the fridge ready for cooking.

Image via  pdphoto.org

Serves 4

Beef Satay
2 cloves garlic
1 onion finely, chopped
1 stalk of lemongrass (soft part only), finely sliced
2 teaspoons brown sugar
3 teaspoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons tamarind juices (take a walnut-sized piece of tamarind and soak for 20 minutes in boiling water. Squeeze the pulp to get all flavour)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
500g rump steak – cut into 2-3cm dice

Skewers - soaked overnight

Peanut sauce 
1 tablespoons tamarind pulp
2 tablespoons boiling water
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 fresh red chilli, finely chopped
250g raw peanuts
Peanut oil
75g brown sugar
1 cup coconut milk
Salt - We used our Port Willunga Fine Foods Desert Lime Salt

Method

Beef Satay

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and marinate covered in the fridge for 1 hour.

Peanut sauce

To make the sauce, soak the tamarind pulp in boiling water for 30 minutes, then squeeze and press through a food mill or coarse strainer and reserve liquid. 

Crush nuts in a food processor or just roughly chop. Heat a wok or a frying pan with a little oil and fry garlic until pale gold. Immediately add chilli, peanuts and sugar. Stir in 3 tablespoons tamarind water and coconut milk. Mix well and add salt to taste. Cook stirring until oil separates and floats to the top. 

To assemble

Remove meat from marinade and thread onto skewers. Brush with a little peanut sauce and drop onto a hot skillet. Continue to baste with the sauce as you cook, turning to brown on all sides. 

Serve with the peanut sauce.

Note: Be sure to soak those skewers beforehand, especially if cooking on the barbecue.  It saves them flaming up and ruining your flavours...

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ITS TIME TO RELAX, UNWIND AND REFLECT...WITH AN APPLETINI!

Appletini cocktail by Jon Sullivan

Two and a Half Mens Alan Harper isnt the only one who loves Appletinis.  They're our new fave!

Refreshing and just a little bit addictive, this fruity twist on the Martini is a nice change.

Here's how to make the Appletini:

2 oz. Vodka

1/2 oz. Apple Pucker Schnapps or, 

1/2 oz. Apple Juice or Cider

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with an Apple Slice

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QUOTES WE LOVE

 “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible'!”...Audrey Hepburn

Sorry the blog was a bit late for the week, as we have been working on some new and exciting projects....'The Dog Ate My Blogspot' just didnt cut it with the girls though  :-)  

Until this coming Friday.....laugh, love and enjoy!

The Charcoal Team