INDIAN ENVIRO BEACH HOUSE....CREATING THE PERFECT OUTDOOR ROOM SPACE....OUR READERS RECIPE FOR CHOCOLATE FUDGE PUDDING...OVER INDULGE IN OUR MARVELLOUS MOCKTAIL...AND OUR FACEBOOK FRIENDS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE INSPIRING QUOTES...HAPPY FRIDAY!! XXX

PALMYRA HOUSE

One of the perks of the job here is that I get to flick through all the glossy design magazines that we subscribe to.  It's really inspiring at the best of times, but this week whilst 'flicking through' my eye hovered over the pages of Vogue Living (September issue) a tad longer than usual at the article on Palmyra House, an elegant pair of buildings that open out to the Arabian Sea. An idyllic 21st century beach house blending the old, new and enhancing natures beauty.

The walls and floors were built with basalt in the area, covered with plaster sand and pigmented.

The structure is made from Burmese Teak and Ain Hardwood with flexible louvred shutter walls.  The Pool, with fresh water from the plantation Aquifer (natural spring) is edged in local stone.

Far removed from the big bunkered modern influences of the west, this Indian beach house simply drips with peacefulness with the crash of the waves, balmy air flowing through the louvres and the shadow of light and shade through the hundreds of palm trees that envelop the property.

Looking at the property from the ocean end, it is designed to open out at the front revealing the bedrooms on one side and bathroom, living area on the other side.

The two-storey home, built as a weekend retreat lies near the fishing village of Nandgaon, south of Mumbai.  The home consists of two oblong buildings, slightly offset from one another.

Created by Studio Mumbai Architects
(We would have LOVED to have included photos of this amazing home, but after contacting the Architects were advised that they didnt wish to give permission....free exposure??...go figure...still..instead of removing the posting you might like to have a look at their website yourselves.)

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BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR ROOMS AND SPACES TO RELAX

We have been watching the Channel 10 show The Renovators when we can spare the time.  Some of the challenges are really tough!  Last week, the outdoor space challenge really got us in.  

When I was a girl, the closest thing to having an outdoor room or space was gathering around the family BBQ and sitting on one of those fold out picnic tables.....remember the ones that came in like a suitcase form and they unfolded to a connected table and chairs, with a weight restriction of around 40 kilos!

So, with the weather really warming up, especially here in Brisbane where we seem to have just two temperatures with the seasons (hot and coolish) we have started thinking about cleaning off the cobwebs on the deck at home, getting stuck into the garden and what little extras we are going to need for our outdoor spaces.  Here are a few great suggestions, focussing on comfort, creating space for group get togethers and also solitary spaces, so you can curl up with a book and indulge in a little bit of 'me' time.

A gathering space with plenty of room to stretch out and relax by the pool.

Credit to epitomized1 via 'flickr'

There's nothing more simple than stringing up a hammock between two trees.  I love nothing more than whiling away the hours taking in the dappled sunlight and getting lost in a book.

How about this for a grown ups version of the outdoor cubbie house?  Remember grabbing one of mums good sheets from the laundry, a few strategically placed chairs and instant cubbie!  
This more sophisticated version is just as easy to create, with 4 poles, a crisp white sheet, your favourite outdoor lounger and all the essentials at arms reach...ie...water, book, sunnies, mags and perhaps a nice cool glass of sauvignon blanc if its a Sunday and you can just chillllll.......zzzzzzzz


FATHERS DAY


I hope that all the Dads enjoyed their big day on Sunday!  Ours started interestingly enough with a visit to the emergency room to pick up one daughters boyfriend with a badly cut finger at 6am, and then home to make breakfast for 9....we had pancakes, bacon, sausages, eggs...the whole heart attack.  Was loads of fun.  Then a big drive in the country with music blaring and then off to the Father-in-laws place for the big Rugby League game and a couple of glasses of the red wine we gave him for a gift!...he's a great sharer :-)
We are all family here at Charcoal Interiors, and the gatherings are always loud and there's loads of food and wine on offer.

The other thing that got me thinking on the day was how many of our friends had lost their Dads over the past year.  I found myself thinking of my friends and wondering how they were feeling so I sent out a blanket text to everyone to say Happy Fathers Day, but also to say that I was thinking of those whose Dads were no longer with us.  It was very well received, so I highly recommend getting in touch with your mates on days like that...ie mothers and fathers day, just to let them know you are thinking of them, as a happy day for some can be a debilitatingly sad day for others.

KELLIES MUMS CHOCOLATE FUDGE PUDDING


This week we have an extra special recipe for everyone.  One of our readers, Kellie Layton has made us aware of the publication of her Mums favourite dessert recipe - Chocolate Fudge Pudding....anything with the words Chocolate and Fudge in it, and I am all ears!
Anyway, this recipe is so good that its been chosen for publication in the Australian Womans Day!
Kellie tells us that "she made this pudding for her and the siblings when they were kids.  Now she makes it for all her grandchildren and her children as well as all 8 of us!"
Congratulations to Lorraine (Kellies Mum) from all of us here.  As usual this recipe ticks all the boxes as far as flavour, simplicity etc...which does not reflect the end result at all which is just pure indulgence!  We had ours with some fresh strawberries that are delivered to the showroom every week and some sprigs of fresh mint from the herb garden in the courtyard out the front of the showroom...oh and some icecream...which we just bought at the shops :-)


Thank you to Kellie, and Lorraine for allowing us to share this delicious family favourite (soon to be one of our own now I think) with all of us!

Serving size: Serves 8
Cooking time: Less than 60 minutes

INGREDIENTS

1¾ cups self-raising flour
1/3 cup cocoa
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup caster sugar
90g butter, chopped
1 cup milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
TOPPING
¾ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cocoa
11/3 cups boiling water

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to moderately slow, 160°C. Lightly grease a 2-litre pudding basin or casserole dish.
   
2. Sift flour, cocoa and salt together into a large bowl. Stir in sugar.
   
3. Combine butter and ¼ cup milk in small saucepan. Heat on low until melted. Cool slightly, then add rest of milk and vanilla. Add liquid to dry ingredients, stirring until smooth. Pour into prepared dish.
   
4. TOPPING: In a bowl, combine brown sugar and cocoa. Sprinkle evenly over pudding, then pour boiling water over.
   
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until cooked when tested. Invert pudding onto serving platter. Serve with ice-cream and some fresh strawbs and mint as mentioned above.

FRIDAY COCKTAIL TIME

SPRING FEVER MOCKTAIL!  (Have as many of these as you like!)

The transition from winter to Spring is one of the most anticipated times of the year.  The ground comes to life with green, the smell of Jasmine is in the air and the sound of lawnmowers cuts through on a Sunday morning sleep-in (I know there's a lot of keen gardeners in our area, so all I can say is 'Sunday Noise Curfew'...) but I digress...back to sunshine and lollipops.  As you finish up your spring clean and plan your gardens, take some time to sit down on the deck or verandah with a refreshing drink that awakens your taste buds from the winter blues with this Spring Fever Cocktail.  Its OK to down as many of these as you like because its alcohol free and very, very refreshing.  

INGREDIENTS

35ml lemon juice

35 ml mango juice

60ml apple juice

60ml orange juice

PREPARATION

1. Pour ingredients into cocktail shaker filled with ice

2. Shake well.

3. Strain into a tall glass half filled with crushed ice.

To be imbibed out on the deck or verandah whilst wearing your fave Spring Bonnet with the tunes of Doris Day or similar light, girly tunes in the background....no Spice Girls please.

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OUR FAVOURITE QUOTES

We asked our Facebook followers for their most inspirational quotes.  The saying that you keep in your head for when the times get tough, or you lose control and have to just succumb to the forces that be.  We all have a little mantra that we inwardly recite that brings a sense of calm or perspective.

Over the next few weeks we wil be sharing some of the inspiration and helpful quotes from our Charcoal Interiors Facebook friends.  There are also a few funny ones to share too, just to balance it out a bit and remind ourselves not to take life too serious.

Thank you everyone for your input!

This week from Fiona Rowlands:

"Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes"

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And so to the end of another week.  We wish you a wonderful weekend.  Enjoy the beautiful Spring weather if you are lucky enough to have some sunshine in your part of the world.  Life is good....enjoy!

The Charcoal Team.  Cathie, Colette and Jen xxx

I CAN FEEL A JULIE ANDREWS MOMENT COMING ON....2011's MOST WEARABLE SPRING FASHION....OUR WEEK THAT WAS....AFTERNOON DELIGHTS...CHILI MARGARITAS AND THE EASIEST RAVIOLI RECIPE EVER FOR DADS BIG DAY! HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL!! xx

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

Ahhhh...Spring....picture that scene in The Sound of Music with Julie Andrews on top of the Mountain singing 'The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music', and that's how we feel this week.

I don't know what its like in your neck of the woods over the last couple of days, but here in Brisbane, Australia its been the perfect start to Spring, with crisp sunny mornings and dare I say, slightly balmy days.  We have a huge jasmine vine in our backyard and the scent wafting through is just divine....how I do love Spring!

The other thing we love about Spring and the oncoming warmer months is that with it comes new clothes shopping...and then of course they spring (no pun intended) fashion week on us and fill our heads with all the beautiful new season styles.  And so here's a bit of Spring Wardrobe inspiration for you below.

2011's MOST WEARABLE SPRING FASHION

It's all well and good to love the fashion on the latest catwalk shows around the country lately, but is there anything that you would actually consider wearing yourself?  The big tip from the experts is to pick and choose the elements of the look that you love and then try to adapt that to what is appropriate for your age, body shape etc....  This seasons sheer maxi dress style may look great on the catwalk, but is it going to be appropriate for the height challenged such as myself, not to mention showing off legs that perhaps could do with about a thousand years of toning exercises!  So here are a few styles that are going to be really popular this season that are wearable and versatile....well I think so anyway.  I always welcome feedback, so please let me know what little fashion gems you have found and where......as we do like discovering new and exciting local designers too.

Ladies, youre going to want to track down a cargo jacket or military-inspired vest sooner rather than later. Tough-looking top + flirty bottom = year-round outfit perfection.

Say hello to your new day-to-night bestie: Spring’s sleek ’70s-inspired jeans look cool again after almost a decade of skinny-jean world domination. Wear them with wedge heels and a tucked-in top to look long and lean.

 The gauzy stuff was all over the Fashion Week runways. Our advice for wearing this trend in real life? Steer clear of the X-rated looks that leave nothing to the imagination. Wear a totally solid top over something sheer so you’ve got a sexy, filmy layer peeking out underneath.

 Being a lover of all things BIG in accessories, I am loving this seasons 'must have'. There’s no easier (or more affordable!) way to update your look in a hurry—just slip on an armful of colorful plastic or wooden bangles.

 As seen in Fashion Week, orange and vibrant citrus hues are big for spring!  The hot new color makes updating last summer’s cobalt and aquamarine clothes a total cinch.

 

So, in a nutshell ladies, think 70's glam, bohemian comfort and bright sunny hues for Spring...I can feel another Julie Andrews moment coming on..........

OUR WEEK THAT WAS

Busy as little spring bees we have been this week.  Here's a little peek at whats been happening....

Here's Cath watching Rob ever so carefully hanging one of our beautiful Bella Chandeliers.  Robbie is Caths nephew and also our number one handyman.  He also got his drivers license this week, so we are all super proud of him....go Rob!

 First day of Spring and we got a beautiful Camelia each from the garden...so pretty and delicate and so Spring!

Another beautiful Charcoal Interiors Custom Made New Guinea Rosewood table heads off to its new home.

Why have a design story board when you can use space in our design area!  This week Colette and Cathie have been working on a very special project for a very special client who loved everything she saw.

....and all work and no play makes us....very thirsty :-)

So, it was off to the Emporium Hotel down the road for our own little Cocktail Party!

Jen with her Chilli Margarita....sooo good!

Colette with her Spring Margarita.

And here's Cath chomping at the bit for me to take the photo so she can tuck into her Chilli Margarita.

Here's cheers to a great week!

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HAPPY COCKTAIL FRIDAY EVERYONE!

Being hit by true inspiration (or maybe it was just the warm fuzzies after a couple of these at the Emporium) we decided it would be fitting...and fair...to share the recipe for the Chilli Margaritas with you.

Directions

Wet the rim of 4 short glasses and dip in a mixture of 2 tablespoons coarse salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder. Fill a cocktail shaker two-thirds of the way with ice. Add 1 cup tequila, 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup fresh lime juice and 11/2 tablespoons agave nectar. Shake well, then strain into the glasses.

Make one of these for Dad, and insist he drink it while wearing the new jocks, socks and other assorted new clothes that he got for Fathers Day this Sunday.  He will be blissed out in no time.  This cocktail really is just delicious and so different with a tiny bit of spice to it....enjoy!  And Happy Fathers Day to all the Dads.

EASY-PEASY POSH PASTA

Treat Dad this Fathers Day lunch or dinner with this super easy Ravioli recipe that will have him thinking you are in preparations for Masterchef status!

Buerre Noisette just rolls off the tongue, but not as easily as Brown Butter, which is the loose translation.

To make things easy for us cooks we use fresh lasagne sheets for this one (available in the fridge section at markets and stores etc...).  I also recommend using Danish fetta because its got a lovely creamy texture and isnt crumbly....gosh...talk about comfort food!  And, theres no meat in this dish, so its fine for Vegos and raging carnivores.

credit to Mortefot via flickr for this photo

3 CHEESE RAVIOLI WITH BEURRE NOISETTE

INGREDIENTS

300g ricotta cheese
150g Danish fetta cheese
2/3 cup finely grated parmesan, plus extra to serve
2 eggs
1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
1½ tsp finely chopped tarragon
Sea salt & cracked black pepper
375g pack fresh lasagne sheets

Beurre noisette
2½ tbsp pine nuts
80g butter
24 sage leaves
100g baby spinach leaves

METHOD

Combine cheeses, 1 egg, zest and tarragon in mixing bowl. Season.

Cut pasta sheets into 32 rounds using cookie cutter.

Lay out 16 rounds and divide cheese mixture between them, leaving 2cm border around edges.

Whisk remaining egg with fork in small bowl. Brush edges of rounds with eggwash. Top with remaining rounds and press edges together to seal, removing air as you go.

Bring saucepan of salted water to boil. Cook ravioli for 3 mins. Drain, reserving 2 tbsp water.

Make beurre noisette Meanwhile, toast pine nuts in frying pan over medium-high heat for 2 mins, tossing regularly. Add butter to pan, cook for 2 mins until golden. Add sage leaves, continue to cook for 30 to 60 secs until sage is crisp and butter is golden brown. Stir through reserved pasta water.

Serve Divide spinach into bowls, top each with 4 ravioli and drizzle with beurre noisette. Season and sprinkle with grated parmesan.

We hope your Dad, husband or significant male in your life enjoys this dish as much as we did.

Happy Fathers Day!

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A truly rich man is one whose children run into his arms when his hands are empty.  ~Author Unknown

Until next week....thanks for reading!  Be sure to let us know what you liked in the blog...and also we love to hear from you with favourite recipes etc....in a nutshell, we love feedback!

The Charcoal Team  xxx

RELAX AND UNWIND ON YOUR 'STAYCATION'...DIVINE DIVA FABRICS...JENS DAGGY CRUSH...FATHERS DAY LUNCH WITH A TWIST...AND THE GINGER & CINZANO COCKTAIL GUARANTEED TO DELIGHT DAD! HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL!

STAYCATION

 Urban Dictionary: A vacation that is spent at one's home enjoying all that home and one's home environs have to offer.

Life just seems to be one big rush.  Rush to have breakfast, rush to the car, rush to work, rush, rush, rush....and for those with school aged kids (I now have one out of 4 still at school) you dont need me to tell you that life can most probably at times seem just so hectic.

I have friends who decided this year that instead of holidaying overseas, or even within the country, to go on a 'Staycation' instead.  For those of you not familiar with the term, a Staycation is, in a nutshell, a holiday at home.  Just think...no busy airports, passport dramas, local language dilemmas and alike.  Staying at home for a holiday can mean loads of not only savings on the hip pocket, but also peace of mind.

Here's some ideas for those of you tossing up the idea of a Staycation...it can be more fun than you think.

1. Buy up enough food for the length of your Staycation...think, smoked salmon, caviar, truffle, belgian chocolate, seafood...and ok...lets really splurge with some bananas :-)

2. Head to the local boutique wine shop...the one that usually only is reserved for purchases of the 'special occasion' variety (not a bottle of Houghtons White Burgundy in sight).  Really splurge on a few good bottles of bubbles and red or white...how about looking through our Archives of Style In The City and select a few interesting cocktails...grab the ingredients and have fun with creating the right ambience along with it.

3. Turn home into your own private spa.  Grab some indulgent hair and body products, scented candles and spend the whole day pampering yourself.

4. On ya bike!  Dust the cobwebs off of the treddlie that has been sitting in your garage for years...remember why you bought it?...because you loved to ride bikes once!...discover your local bike trails.

5. Have a picnic.  Dont let all those lovely gourmet goodies go to waste indoors...pack a picnic basket full of your favourite treats and head to the hills....you never know...you may find a cute little pub on the way for a glass of mulled wine :-)

6. Host a dinner party.  All that rushing around in life doesnt leave much time for spending with the people who matter to us the most...friends and family.  We love to cook up a big curry....prepare..set and forget..too easy, and then invite our mates along to share it with us.  Ask everyone to bring a game and enjoy a night of laughs, good food and company...what could be more nourishing for the soul?

7. Grow your own food.  Creating a herb garden is really a 'no-brainer' and you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour within weeks....for easy and quick pickings, try Rocket (they dont call it that for nothing...grows like crazy and very low maintenance...makes incredible pesto too), Thai Basil (grows quickly and a lot hardier than traditional broad leaf Basil), Parsley, Chives etc...think of the herbs you use every day, or on a regular basis and grow those...theres no point having marjoram in your herb garden if you dont like or use it.  Having a herb garden gives you a reason to head outside and breathe the fresh air too.

8.  Well, I cant draw, or paint but I still love to sit with a sketch pad and just doodle away.  Who cares if you're no Jackson Pollock, just as long as youre enjoying yourself, finding a creative outlet and relaxing.

9. Send a card to a loved one.  The other day I was thinking about my Grandma, who is going to be 100 soon...still lives at home and is still enjoying her life to the fullest.  Instead of calling her, I sent her a card, just to say hi and to let her know I was thinking of her.  It made me feel connected to her as she lives interstate and my intention was to also make her day happier...made me feel good!

10. Visit a book store...immerse yourself in the cooking section, or the biographies section...whatever takes your interest.  Buy a book or two, find a nice sheltered spot outside and curl up with a cup of tea.

ENJOY YOUR STAYCATION!

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MORE OF THE LOOKS WE LOVE....

Loving...the new 'Diva' range by Ardecora

 Courtesy of our friends at Unique Fabrics

Divas are fascinating icons – muses and goddesses with ultimate presence. Inspired by the powerful aura of these exceptional women, the DIVA collection manifests emotion in

colour, texture, and form.

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We all know that Dad loves nothing more than a good cook up breakfast on Fathers Day, but what do with about lunch?  After all that grease from the cook up, how about treating him to a delicious lunch traditional dish with a twist?

The BLT CHICKEN SALAD!

Preparation Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

25 minutes

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 250g trussed baby tomatoes
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 4 pancetta slices
• 1/4 Turkish bread, cut into 2cm pieces
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 2 (about 400g) chicken breast fillets
• 100g baby rocket leaves
• 1/4 cup (60g) whole-egg mayonnaise
• 1 tbs lemon juice
• 1 tbs wholegrain mustard

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Place tomatoes on an oven tray; drizzle with 2 teaspoons of the oil. Season with salt and pepper. Bake in oven for 15 minutes or until tomatoes begin to collapse. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
2. Meanwhile, place the pancetta and Turkish bread on separate oven trays. Combine the garlic and 1 tablespoon of the oil in a small bowl; drizzle over the bread. Gently toss to coat. Bake the bread and pancetta in oven, turning occasionally, for 10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
3. Meanwhile, season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat remaining oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add chicken; cook for 3-4 minutes each side or until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat; set aside for 5 minutes to rest. Thinly slice.
4. Arrange the rocket, crumbled pancetta, chicken, croutons and tomatoes on serving plates. Combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice and mustard in a bowl. Drizzle over the salad and serve immediately.
   
   FRIDAY.....THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY!!!....COCKTAIL FRIDAY THAT IS...

GINGER AND CINZANO COCKTAIL DAD WILL LOVE!

I know it sounds a bit daggy, but when I was a kid, I had the hugest crush on John Newcombe, the Australian tennis player.  He was a bit like the 'Solo' man with his moustache and rugged good looks. 

When a type of 'manly' style cocktail is called for, I always think of Cinzano, because John used to do the ads for them years ago.  So, I found this great Ginger and Cinzano Cocktail recipe that makes 2 litres.  It's a beaut recipe that you can make up and then pop in the fridge ready for all the Fathers Day guests....a nice alternative to beer for Dad...after all, variety is the spice of life!

To be sipped out on the back deck served in a long tall glass and lashings of love and gratitude for Dad thrown in the mix too....

Makes

2 litres

Ingredients

• 2 cups Cinzano Bianco
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1 orange, unpeeled, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, unpeeled, thinly sliced
• 1.25 litres chilled dry ginger ale

Method

1. Combine Cinzano, brandy, orange and lemon in a large jug. Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours, if time permits.
2. Add dry ginger ale. Stir gently to combine. Pour into glasses. Serve.

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In the end, it's not going to matter how many breaths you took, but how many moments took your breath away - shing xiong

Until next week.....Cathie, Colette and Jen xxx

IN A MUDDLE ABOUT WHAT TO GET DAD??...WE HAVE THE ANSWER TO ALL YOUR FATHERS DAY GIFT GIVING DILEMMAS!...OUR ANTIQUE RIDDLING RACKS AND THE COCKTAIL TO GO WITH IT!..GREEK STYLE BBQ...OOOOOOPAHHH! AND MUCH MORE...HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL! xx

 GIFT IDEAS FOR THE DAD WHO WAS EVERYTHING!

After a chat with my brother this week about Fathers Day gifts for our Dad, we both came to conclusion that men are really hard to buy for...unless you're my brother who loves fishing and is happy with anything remotely associated with angling.  There's always the easy way out...i.e bottle of red wine, carton of beer, socks, jocks etc....but if you really want to 'dazzle' Dad, why not get creative with your gift giving this year.  We have some terrific suggestions for you this week, and you can find all of these in our Charcoal Interiors showroom at 59 Doggett St. Newstead. Qld.

Antique Wooden Horse...for that Horse Loving Dad...would look great in his office.

Black Leather Storage Trunk that doubles as a Coffee Table.  

Our stunning range of Moroccan Lanterns are now half price!  Not only a piece of exotic history, but also these lanterns can be wired to make a perfect feature light over the BBQ for Dad....well...why not!?...

Connect Dad in with his inner primordial self with this huge black South American hide.  We only source quality hides that do not shed (as the cheaper versions inevitably do).  

AND THE 'PISTE DE RESISTANCE'.....OUR ANTIQUE FRENCH CHAMPAGNE RIDDLING RACKS!

 

Antique French Riddling Rack - the perfect gift for the Dad who has everything.  Lovers of wine and champagne are always pleading for us to re-stock these very hard to come by pieces.  In perfect timing for Fathers Day we have acquired 2 single panels and a rare A-Frame. Crafted from Oak, these racks were used in the process of Methode Champenoise fermentation.  

The bottles were turned daily by hand to keep the sediment towards the neck of the bottle.  Due to this labor intensive process, riddling has now been automated.  These riddling racks are now used as a feature in homes, either mounted on the walls or to display wine or champagne in cellars etc...  They are a very special piece of history that we are sure the lover of quality wine and Champagne will appreciate.  These racks are quite rare in their natural state with authentic stamps.  Available only while stocks last.

 ...LOOKS WE LOVE...

The Art Of Balance

The simplicity of neutrals with a splash of vibrant colour.

 

 GREEK STYLE BARBECUED CHICKEN

This really easy recipe will satisfy the most picky of eaters.  I buy my chicken already cut up to save time, or you can follow the recipe as is. Sitting at my desk today, there was somebody local (I could have sniffed them out if I had the time) who was cooking a BBQ and there were onions and possible sausages involved.....I almost had a Pepe Le Pew moment where I could have floated along following my nose to find the origin.  And so, it got me inspired for this weeks recipe, because I do so love a good BBQ meal.  This recipe is one that I have used many times and its a complete 'no-brainer'.....easy as 1..2..3...

Ingredients (serves 8)

• 2 x 1.3kg whole fresh chickens
• 2 small red onions, coarsely grated
• 2 bunches fresh oregano, leaves picked, chopped
• 2 tbs finely grated lemon rind
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 long fresh green chillies, seeded, finely chopped
• 80ml (1/3 cup) olive oil
• Olive oil, to grease
• Fresh oregano sprigs (optional), to serve

Method

1. Rinse 1 chicken inside and out under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towel. Place, breast-side down, on a clean work surface. Use sharp kitchen scissors to cut along either side of the backbone. Discard backbone. Turn the chicken and open. Press to flatten. Place in a glass or ceramic dish. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Combine the onion, chopped oregano, lemon rind, garlic, chilli and oil in a bowl. Spread the mixture over the chickens. Set aside for 10 minutes to marinate.
3. Preheat a barbecue flat plate on high. Brush with oil. Cook the chickens, skin-side down, on barbecue for 10 minutes or until browned. Turn and cook for a further 15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cut into pieces and place on a serving platter. Top with oregano sprigs, if desired.
   

 HOORAH!!...ITS COCKTAIL FRIDAY...LET'S GET IN THE SPIRIT!

Needless to say, if you are going to have a Riddling Rack in your home, then logically you need to fill it with Champagne....or 'spaaaaaaarkling'...as we have to call it here in Aus.  Anyway it will always be Champagne to me, especially if it has those magical words 'Methode Champenoise' on the bottle (which translates to made by the Champagne Method).

This weeks cocktail recipe is 'A Goodnight Kiss' and I can guarantee that if you have a few of these, you will be getting more than just a kiss...nod, nod...wink..wink.  This cocktail recipe impresses with its looks, but is very easy to put together and you dont need a cupboard full of ingredients either.

A GOODNIGHT KISS

INGREDIENTS:

4 oz Champagne

1 splash of Campari

1 sugar cube

1 drop of Angostura bitters

METHOD:

Place a drop of the Angostura Bitters on a sugar cube and drop into the Champagne.  Add Champagne and a splash of Campari....voila!

The only drinking participation requirement with this one is to wear pink....ideally a hat.

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"I shut my eyes in order to see".....Paul Gauguin

Wishing you all a great weekend.  Its supposed to be drizzly here in Brisbane, but you would never know!!...sun is shining and its been a gorgeous day.  Be sure to pop in and say hi on Saturday and snaffle up one of those Riddling Racks before they all go...Dad will just love it!  We also have our Moroccan lanterns on sale at half price...which is crazy because they are simply exquisite and a piece of history too.  In fact, all our accessories are from 30 to 50% off the marked price, so you can get something for Dad and something for yourself!  Thank you to everyone who has crossed our path this week...'twas a pleasure.

Until next week....xxx

CREATIVE JESS WINS!!...BRISBANE RIVER APARTMENT FITOUT....OUR NEW CREATIVE COMPETITION...NEW ARRIVALS THAT WE JUST LOOOOVE!....LOW FAT LASAGNE IN A PAN AND THE 'SVELTE MAKER' (LONG ISLAND ICED TEA)...PLUS WORDS OF WINSTON AND MORE...ENJOY AND HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL!! xx

JESS...THE EXCITED WINNER OF OUR VERY FIRST CHARCOAL INTERIORS COMPETITION!

When we shared on facebook our first Charcoal Interiors Competition, we never really expected to get the huge response that we did.

The idea was to introduce as many friends to our Facebook Page for a chance to win an original artworks by local artist Margaret Fredericksen.  The interest in the comp was huge and we ended up with loads of new followers, who all qualified to win.  One lady who went crazy with referring us to her friends was Kellie Layton.  She really wanted to win the comp for her daughter 11 year old Jess, who has been absolutely mad keen on art and all things creative since she was 5.  Amongst her other loves of cooking and flowers Jess spend hours immersing herself in her artwork.  Mum, Kellie says Jess's favourite colours are Green and Purple and she is way above her grade standard in Art classes and was presented with honours at a recent Melbourne Show exhibition.  And all at the tender age of 11.  Jess tells us that when she grows up she wants to have her own shop called Jessica-Rose Flower and Art!

We are told that the Margaret Fredericksen original that she won is now taking pride of place amongst Jess's other creations on her bedroom wall.  As you can see from the pictures, she sure looks happy with her win!  Jess is lucky to have a family that nurtures her creative spirit in a positive and loving environment.  We are thrilled to have them in our Charcoal Interiors Facebook family!
And the competitions just keep on coming.  Keep reading through the blog for info on our latest little brainwave!...its a chance for YOU to get creative and win!

RIVERFRONT APARTMENT PROJECT

We now live in a service society.  Need your house cleaned?...then there are services for that.  Want your garden maintained?...its as easy as making a phone call and instant gardener at your service!...and if he's cute, well then that's just a big bonus then isn't it!?  
The design girls finished a project this week, that called for a lot of trust from the client, who was new to working with Charcoal Interiors, but liked what she saw on the website and also via phone calls to the team.  She lived interstate but had an apartment here in Brisbane on the river that needed a full fit-out.  It can be quite a nervous decision from the client to put such a huge job into someone elses hands.
After design consultations over the phone and emailing of images and ideas, the vision was complete and after a big thumbs up from the client the girls got cracking with the task of fitting out the apartment with magnificent views of the Brisbane River.
The girls found that their biggest challenge was working with the colour scheme of floor, walls and drapes that was a little dated.  After much consideration they came up with rugs, lamps, cabinetry, beds, desks, tables and more that worked in well.  The emphasis was on quality and classic pieces that would not date and stand the test of time. 
Below we have some 'Before and After' shots that show the difference key pieces can make to the overall appearance when given a completely blank canvas to work with.


BEFORE  AND   AFTER  IMAGES

OUR LATEST COMPETITION IS UP AND RUNNING....AND YOU COULD WIN!

Join our facebook page (just click on the link at top right of the blog page) and you not only have access to design inspiration from the experts, a weekly blog with great recipes, our latest projects and more, but you also get a chance to win great prizes.  This months competition is all about you getting creative.  Just come up with a suitable name for each of our Huge Bronze Lion Statues that we now have in our front courtyard.  We have all heard the usual 'Leo' and 'Simba' so we want you to come up with something fitting.  The winner will be the proud owner of our Asian Art Tryptich which translates to Hope, Harmony and Dance!

So, get cracking with some names (you get 5 chances to win) and we look forward to hearing from you.

LATEST ARRIVALS THAT WE ARE LOVING......



ANTIQUE RUSTIC FRENCH IRON BED

This bed is stunning, and for an antique, quite versatile in its design.  The sides of the bed fold down, so you can also use it as a bench seat, or convert to a day bed by locking into place one of the side panels.  To say this bed is beautiful would have to be an understatement.  If the design team arent vigilant enough I will be finding a cunning way to get it back to my place!  Would be perfect on a deck, verandah, out in the garden or perfect in any living area or bedroom indoors.  We just L.O.V.E it.  Its for sale, but be quick and contact us.  We deliver anywhere in Australia and Worldwide!

BELL URN

There is something about the Pattina of this urn that really gets us going.  Its a stunning pot that you could have on a deck or in the garden.  Great feature urn for indoors too.  Pop a plant in it, or leave as is.  These pieces fly out the door, so be sure to contact us for all the details.

THIRTY MINUTE LOW FAT LASAGNE IN A PAN

With Spring just around the corner I've had to pay some serious attention to getting the old bod back into some kind of acceptable shape. I am ok with being on a diet, as long as I dont feel deprived in any way.  Last week I road tested this 30 minute Lasagne that you make in the frying pan.  It says to use the Weight Watchers brand in the recipe, but I just use low fat versions that are available and a bit cheaper. I also added some chopped low fat sundried tomatoes which are available at the deli section of the supermarket.  Also, I added some chopped basil from the garden.  Serve it up with a little green salad.  Lovely...and the kids will eat it too.  Freeze what you dont eat, or double the recipe so you have another full family meal available for the nights when you get home and would rather eat your own hair than cook a meal :-)

Equipment

You'll need a frying pan with a lid and flameproof handle.

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 medium red capsicum, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 410g can crushed tomatoes
• 3 fresh lasagne sheets, cut into thirds
• 1/2 x 250g tub Weight Watchers cream cheese
• 100g Weight Watchers shaved leg ham
• 3/4 cup Weight Watchers grated tasty cheese
• Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, to serve

Method

1. Heat half the oil in an 18cm (base), heavy-based frying pan over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic and capsicum. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Add oregano and tomato. Season with salt. Cook for 2 minutes or until heated through. Transfer to a bowl. Wipe pan clean.
2. Spread 1 side of each piece of lasagne with cream cheese. Drizzle remaining oil over base of pan. Arrange 2 pieces of lasagne, cream cheese side-up, over base of pan. Top with one-third of the ham, then one-quarter tomato mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with 3 pieces of lasagne then 1 layer tomato mixture. Sprinkle with tasty cheese. Preheat grill on high.
3. Return pan to medium-low heat. Cook, covered, for 8 to 10 minutes or until lasagne sheets are tender. Remove lid. Grill for 5 to 6 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden. Season with pepper. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve.
   
   
   
   
   THE 'GUILT-FREE' LONG ISLAND ICED TEA
   
   
   
   I must admit that I have on occasion woken up with more than just a hangover after a big night out on the Chockie Martinis, and also found myself a bit tubbier too after a few weeks of having just soooo much fun on nights out without a care in the world and a cocktail or 3 or more in hand.
   Whilst its not a Chocolate Martini, this Low Calorie replacement to the iconic Long Island Iced Tea hits the spot for a refreshing Alcoholic bevvie without all the calories.
   The Long Island Iced Tea was first served in the mid-70's by a bartender in yes...you guess it, Long Island, Nyoooo Yawwk...
   
   
   
   

   Long Island Iced Tea

4. 1/3 oz vodka
5. 1/3 oz rum
6. 1/3 oz gin
7. 1/3 oz tequila
8. 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
9. 2 packets artificial sweetner
10. 2 Tbsp water
11. diet cola
12. fresh slice lemon
13. tall glass of ice

Dissolve sweetener in water. Add mixture to cocktail shaker, along with all liquors and lemon juice. Shake well. Pour into tall cocktail glass filled with ice, add diet cola until filled. Garnish with fresh slice of lemon.

Important Note: Dressing like Carrie Bradshaw whilst sipping the Long Island Iced Tea is highly recommended, to get right into that New York groove.  Pop on the Manolo Blahniks and Designer Dress to really get into the New York style 'feel'.....or...the other option that I personally gravitate to, is Track-suit pants, loose knit jumper and ugg boots, whilst nibbling on some of those 'low-fat' fries dipped in even lower in fat aioli.....its the New York grunge look which is really big these days I hear ;-)

'We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us'....Winston Churchill


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And so, to the end of another brilliant week.  Any day above ground is brilliant as far as we are concerned.  As I type this we have a group of 4 clients milling around the showroom laughing and chatting....one of our dearest suppliers has just turned up for a hi and a hug...Brian is snoozing on his cushion next to my desk and there is a little bit of a hint of Spring in the air.  I feel that the possibilities for next week are simply endless....wishing you all a very Happy Friday..until next week....

www.charcoalinteriors.com.au