Friday, June 15, 2012

OUR WINTER SALE IS ON NOW!


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Ah...the Winter Sale...how I do love thee!  Starting today we have selected stock marked down by 50% which also includes a lot of our new arrivals!  Are we mad you ask??...no...well....maybe a little bit crazy, but we have just been informed that works start soon on our new timber flooring for the entire showroom!
And so, in a nutshell...the more we sell, the less we need to move around.  So, pop into the showroom for a bargain and save our backs at the same time!

UP TO 50% OFF SELECTED ITEMS INCLUDING URNS, POTS, ACCESSORIES, RICE BUCKETS, LANTERNS, ANTIQUE DOORS, MIRRORS, OUTDOOR FURNITURE INCLUDING EUROPEAN MANUFACTURE AND DESIGN SOLPURI, GLOSTER, CANELINE AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Charcoal Interiors: 59 Doggett Street.  Newstead.  Ph. 38526002. Open every day but Sunday.
www.charcoalinteriors.com.au

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The latest from the super innovative and clever people from Hooked on Walls is their Rock Baroque Collection.  A daring blend of colours, patterns and textures makes this the perfect range for those not faint of heart and really does bring out the Rocker in you.....verrrry Lenny Kravitz!

 'Big Damask'

'Cashmere Lion'

'Precious Paisley'

Available in various colourways...this is just a glimpse of the new collection...more to come in future blogs.  We just know how much you all love your wallpaper!
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Thank you to our friends at Unique Fabrics for always supplying us with quality product.

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SA SOJOURN

I was back in beautiful Wintery South Australia on the weekend.  I left Pete the Greek to look after the tribe and set off on my own for a couple of days in the gorgeous Adelaide Hills which are so beautiful this time of the year with the green rolling hills and what seems like a stone pub with fireplace in every little town you drive through.  It wouldnt be right to drive right past now would it!?

I am always blown away by the beauty of the little townships, in particular Stirling with its wide streets, grand homes, manicured Paul Bangay style gardens and cosy restaurants and pubs.  I always feel like I am in the English countryside when I visit.  Here's one of the homes I came across whilst driving back from the Organic Market (see below 'Out and About' Article).

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OUT AND ABOUT 

AT THE ORGANIC MARKET AND CAFE IN STIRLING



Back in the olden days as I would say to my kids...or when I was a teensie bit younger I used to live on a farm in SA and we specialised in Organic produce.  My Mum and I had a small business making Organic Apple pies for our little shop on the property and supplied pies to various cafes and restaurants in the Adelaide Hills.  The Organic Market was one of these cafes we sold to and I hadnt been there again in years and years...almost before the wheel as I would say to the kids.  Anyway, I popped in on the weekend and it was absolutely packed with locals, which although inconvenient as my little tummy was a-grumbling, was also a good sign...if its busy, you know it must be good.  



With a passion for food, the proprietors select the very best in seasonal produce with a focus on wholefoods, certified organics and biodynamics so the menu is fresh and flavour packed....and licensed with a great selection of organic wines including my  fave, the Temple Bruer range (local to the area).  After your meal, check out the shelves of the market shop which are brimming with all things good in food, baked items, wines, beers fresh fruit and vegetables and more.  There is even a little area for the kids to listen to music, and a play section in the corner of the cafe.  



Next time I am taking the Greek away from the tribe and will be bunkering down at this cafe for a relaxed afternoon of good food, fast quirky service and a dose of eclectic people watching....a MUST see on your next visit to the Adelaide Hills....or as the locals would say "Dont tell too many people about this gem or then everyone will discover it!" 


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ZESTY BALSAMIC AVOCADO RECIPE


News Flash: Avocados are in season!  They are flavoursome, fresh and abundant at the moment.  I personally have Avocado for breakfast, either with my omelette or on wholegrain toast with fresh lemon (also in season..yay..) and then its a must have in my salad wrap for lunch.  I loooooove Avocado!  I am also facebook friends with 'Australian Avocados'  Click here to become Facebook friends with Australian Avocados and keep updated on their yummy recipes...


They have these super tempting recipes which are posted from time to time and I really love trying them.  Avocados naturally lower cholesterol, improve eye health, reduce the risk of oral and breast cancers, help guard against stroke, promote good heart health and are a powerhouse of Vitamin E...plus!  They taste great!  Mash them, crumb and fry, slice in a salad, on toast and so much more.  This little green package is chock-a-block full of goodness and flavour.
Thank you to our friends at Australian Avocados for providing this super easy recipe for Zesty Balsamic Avocado.


Serves 4 people
Preparation Time - 5 minutes

Ingredients:
2 Avocado
4tsp of Balsamic Vinegar
4tsp of Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 Bunch Chives finely chopped
Salt and Pepper to taste

Method:
Cut Avocado in half and de-seed.
Cut into the inside of avocado in criss-cross pattern without piercing the skin.
Pour Vinegar and Oil into Avocado and Season with the Salt and pepper
Sprinkle with the chives.

Note: Great snack in between leals or served as an entree with fresh greens on the side and some crusty bread....be still my beating heart....sounds deeeelish!

Would you like to see Australian Avocado website that is absolutely bursting with not only recipes but also nutritional information and so much more?  

All recipes, and info have been provided by our friends at Australian Avocados.  We love promoting quality Australian business!

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RELAX...PUT THAT SMILE ON YOUR DIAL...ITS COCKTAIL FRIDAY!



ST HALLET 'FAITH' SHIRAZ

Well, I have for the moment exhausted my list of Winter Warming cocktails...lets face it..its cold and furthermore, there are only so many ways you can jazz up a Mead recipe!
I was very happily surprised on my flight home from SA on Sunday to be served up on my request for a Shiraz, the St Hallett 'Faith' Shiraz.  I had been to the winery previously and was truly impressed with the attendant at the Tasting Room who explained in laymans terms the options and varieties available...we of course went straight for the hard stuff...the reds! 

(above) Pete the Greek at the St Hallett Winery Barossa Valley

 And so, my flight home was not only made more comfortable by a glass or two of Faith Shiraz, but also took me back to that day at the winery.



If you are looking for a vibrant and expressive example of Barossa reds, then this is worth a try.  Quite affordable and with dark cherry and juicy raspberry notes on the palate, this wine even in the latest vintage of 2010 is very drinkable now.

To find out more about the St Hallett Winery, wines and the beautiful Barossa Valley, click on the link below.

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...And so to finish off for this week, we wanted to share with you an amazing find brought to us by our favourite design e-newsletter 'Lost at E Minor'...the Automated Fresh Pizza Vending Machine!
It's been available in areas of Europe now for years...and apparently there is one for fresh Cupcakes also.
Pop your money in, select your fresh ingredients and in 2 and a half minutes you have a freshly baked pizza to your specifications and with fresh ingredients....just like mamma used to make!
Image via Lost at E Minor

Until next week!  Have a great weekend...enjoy family, friends and all else in between!
The Charcoal Team xxx


Friday, June 8, 2012



With all the cooler weather we have had lately...I do so love Winter!...the girls have been busy fulfilling the visions of our clients looking to give their home that feel of 'sumptuousness'...and yes..its a word I checked...
With the weather being conducive to extra time at home curled up in front of the fire or heater, more and more we are finding our clients looking for direction and advice on defining their space...
The design team have been working with Lizzo fabrics of late and the below images will give you an idea of why.
To say that the range is completely delectable is an understatement.
All of the looks below can be achieved with guidance from our Design Team.
Call us today on 07 38526002 for all the details, or pop into the showroom, look through our project book and make an appointment....but in the meantime you can drool away on the following and draw inspiration....


Aberdeen collection above - Classic, Rich, Elegant and with a Folk Touch

The Java (above) Showcasing the ethnic mix and cultural melting pot that is Indonesia.

Aberdeen - Besarabia

We used Lizzo fabric for all cushioning on our Enzo sofa (above)

...and below...swooooon....Venus by Lizzo.."goodness, gracious me" as my Grandmother used to say....

Images c/- our friends at Unique
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WONDER WALL

In this months Belle Mag, you can find this newly renovated bayside Melbourne Apartment project with various trimmings by Andrew Martin, in particular this plush wall covering in 'Avalanche' fabric panels finishing of perfectly a room with both masculine and feminine elements.
We just love it and its available through Charcoal Interiors.  Call us to find out more:
07 38526002


Credit to Unique for Belle Mag exerpt.


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This week we have two divine recipes for you from our friends at 
'Gourmet Organic Herbs"

Gourmet Organic Herbs is committed to sourcing the highest quality herbs and spices from across the glove, all blended with care, to create an interesting range of certified organic culinary delights!



We have a terrific offer available to our facebook and blog readers.  Until the 1st of August 2012 if you order anything from the Gourmet Organic Herbs Online Store and enter the code of Charcoal1 you receive a huge 20% off your order.  There's herbs, rubs, dressings, vinegars and more..divine salt rubs for you Sunday roast too!
Just click on the link below:

In the meantime we wanted to share this recipe for Cumin Dusted King George Whiting with Celeriac Remoulade....with celeriac being in season and widely available at the moment.


Cumin Dusted King George Whiting with Celeriac Remoulade 



This succulent recipe features our Cumin Seeds which you roast either in the oven or a dry fry pan to enhance their wonderful flavour.

Ingredients

8 king george 
whiting fillets
50g GOH Cumin Seeds
Roast Cumin seeds in a hot oven or dry frying
pan for two minutes.
Grind the seeds in a mortar and pestle, and
then sieve to achieve a fine powder. Sprinkle
this over your fillets of fish and then season with
salt and pepper.
Shallow-fry the fish for 30 seconds on each side
and then serve on a bed of celeriac remoulade
with wedges of lemon.
Celeriac Remoulade
1 large celeriac
1 egg yolk
1 tsp dijon mustard

Method

Whisk egg yolk, mustard, lemon juice and salt
and freshly cracked pepper together.
Slowly add the olive oil in a light drizzle action,
while continuing to whisk the mixture until you
get the consistency of a light mayonnaise.
Cut celeriac into very thin slices and then cut
into very thin strips again.
Combine the celeriac with the mayonnaise




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SPICE UP YOUR WINTER EVENING WITH THIS WARMING  MOCKTAIL

What better way to enjoy your winter evening with friends than over a Moroccan Mary Mocktail...too cold for cocktails you say??....Never!...and the Moroccan Mary with the addition of Cayenne Pepper makes for a warming and spicy drink....and...its healthy too....!  All boxes ticked with this one!



Moroccan Mary 

A spicy drink over ice containing our Ground Black Pepper, Ground Cumin, Turmeric, Cayenne Pepper and Ground Fennel Seeds.


Ingredients:


50 ml vodka
120ml tomato juice
15 ml lemon juice
1 tbsp. worcestershire sauce
Pinch each of: 
-celery salt, GOH Ground Black Pepper, 
GOH Ground Cumin, GOH Turmeric, 
GOH Cayenne Pepper, ground GOH
fennel seeds

The fun part....

Shake all ingredients very gently with ice
Strain over fresh ice into a highball glass
rimmed with celery salt.
Garnish with a stick of cucumber.

For more delicious recipes including further cocktails we invite you to click on the link below.  Dont forget to place your order using the special 20% discount code of Charcoal1 - offer available until 1st August 2012.


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Until next week....Wishing everyone a fabulous weekend!  We are closed on Monday due to the public holiday...Happy Birthday Lizzie!

Colette, Cathie and Jen...The Charcoal Team


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Friday, June 1, 2012

CATH AND HER TRIP TO THE FAIR...IN NEW YORK CITY THANK YOU VERY MUCH! ALL THE LATEST IN DESIGN....OUT AND ABOUT AT BUCCI RESTAURANT ON JAMES ST....PERSIMMON - THE LITTLE BALL OF SUNSHINE...RUM MAI TAIS AND MORE!! ITS FRIDAY!

NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE FAIR


Well, if it wasn't enough turning various shades of green hearing all about Caths recent trip to New York City, this week we got the full rundown on the Trade Show that she attended...The ICFF...or International Contemporary Furniture Fair.  
The Fair is North Americas premier showcase for Contemporary Furniture and Design and Cath spent the day cruising the aisles of this incredible up to the moment exhibition.  Here's some snaps and insights into her day at the Fair.

Cruising down the what seemed infinite rows of inspiring design....


Cath was especially inspired by the new concepts in lighting.  The above range by At Labo, Japanese designed...Is it a Lamp...or a puzzle?  Triangular pieces of light natural plywood are arranged just the way you like them to create your own light.  If you get tired of your shape, easy, just rearrange it into a brand new style!  Illuminate your room AND unleash your creative power....brilliant.  


Elegant...divine...and so very NYC.


Not really befitting the Charcoal doctrine, but stunning in their own right...


....all a-flutter over this wallpaper...love, love, love!

Cath was particularly impressed with 'Amuneal' Manufacturing Corporation specialising in commercial installations and retail fitouts.  Their use of recycled elements within new design utilising recycled timber and iron in conjunction with their manufacturing and the balance between the old and new to create stunning pieces enamoured Cath to the point where she sought out more of their work on Saks Fifth Avenue.
Heres the link below to their website and projects...some of which are an architectural miracle..check out the staircase!


....and above..this 'Blue Room' constructed from paper honeycomb structures by 'Molo'....100% recyclable and due to the design has surprisingly great strength.


'Must Have' rugs by 'Golran'


...and then there's this display which takes Contemporary to whole new lengths...hmmmm...wondering where the light switch is for that lamp....hehe...

And so the trend for the Fair seemed to be very much Japanese and Dutch inspired.   Cath was also keen to  check out the new design additions in dining tables.  The word is lots of galvanised iron and timber that seems to be the trend.  After a mental comparison between what we do with our gorgeous Custom Made table range and what's on offer in the world of design, Cath walked away from the showcase feeling quite chuffed with our designs and craftsmanship.

More from the New York Showcase in coming weeks.....
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OUT AND ABOUT.....AT BUCCI on JAMES STREET

Word on the streets here in the Valley precinct is that the new place to wine and dine is 'Buccis' Italian restaurant...and because I dont like missing out on anything decided to give the new digs a go.

Photo via Good Food Guide

Located on James Street directly opposite Valley stalwart Cru Bar, Buccis is super schmick with its Italo-contemporary decor and 'authentic' Italian staff....which does help bring bona-fide romance to the restaurant.

The wine list was quite substantial and very true to the theme with extensive Italian regionals and varietals plus a smattering of quality Aussie additions.  My friends went for the Chianti but I like more punch in my reds so went for the Mr Riggs Shiraz (local) which is always a winner and never disappoints no matter the Vintage.


I had the Char-grilled octopus salad of avocado, pickled fennel, tomato and herbs and it was deliciously light and flavoursome...you know you enjoyed a meal when you keep thinking about when you are going to have it next!



We finished the meal (lunch) with the Frangelico Affogato.

All up, we enjoyed our experience at Bucci's.  Although there were a few hiccups with our order, the wait staff were very attentive and helpful (and hey...everyone makes mistakes!...so no big deal).  The only small criticism is that I felt there was a lack of atmosphere...couldn't quite by my finger on it, but there just seemed to be a lack of cosiness afforded unlike most Italian restaurants I have been to.  Still, they are just new kids on the block and of course we will be back as soon as possible for more of that divine salad!

Like to check out Bucci?  Here's the link to their website with menus etc...


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PERSIMMON....A LITTLE BALL OF SUNSHINE!


When I was a child (no...after the wheel was invented thank you very much!) my Mum used to love Persimmons...then we moved to the country and started up an Organic farm where we used to grow them ourselves.  Mum was in heaven with the access to fresh Persimmons.


Persimmon originated in Japan and have a texture rather like a tomato.  Persimmons are available at the grocers right now, but will be coming into the end of their season soon, so get in there and try a delicious Persimmon.  For now, we have included a delicious and easy recipe using Persimmon and combining with watercress, walnuts and our all time fave cheese Gorgonzola.  Delicious.  Enjoy!

Did you know....?

  • A sweet persimmon contains twice the dietary fibre of an apple and higher levels of many minerals and antioxidants
  • Persimmons are a good source of vitamin C and beta carotene
  • High in fibre and fat free



Persimmon and watercress salad with gorgonzola and toasted walnuts



Ingredients: (serves four)

·         2 sweet persimmons, cut in half and sliced
·         1 bunch of watercress
·         100g of gorgonzola or other mild blue cheese
·         50g walnuts
·         6 tbsp walnut oil
·         3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
·         Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

·         Place walnuts onto a baking tray and toast under the grill, turning occasionally.
·         Once walnuts are evenly toasted set aside to cool.
·         Wash watercress, discard the bottoms of the stokes and place in a colander to drain.
·         Wash and slice the persimmons, cut each half into four to six slices.

·         Place watercress into a salad bowl, top with persimmons, crumbled gorgonzola and toasted walnuts.
·         Drizzle with oil and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.

Would you like to know more about the Persimmon and also see some of their delicious recipes which are packed with flavour and also super healthy?  Then click on the link below which will take you to Persimmons Australia!  Support Australian Business and quality product.

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RELAX....UNWIND....ENJOY...ITS COCKTAIL FRIDAY!


TRADITIONAL MAI TAI
(Tahitian translation...Out Of This World....)

Credit - Wikicommons c/- duluoz

Well, its always so nice when we get feedback from our readers and this week we want to thank Learn2serve bartending for their message about a story we ran months ago on Vodka Mai Tais.  We had always made them with Vodka...probably because we were not much the fan of Rum...as my husband says...'Every time I drink Rum I get a blood nose'...and so we received a bit of feedback about the recipe we posted because traditionally Mai Tais are made with Rum and we wanted to share with you the cocktail recipe for this.  We figured that since its the first day of Winter and soooo cold here that a spot of visualisation is in order...to another place...a warm, sunny place with palm trees, a hammock and an umbrella drink.  The Mai Tai seems to fit the bill perfectly!

What you will need....

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz light rum
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 1/2 oz orange curacao
  • 1/2 oz orgeat syrup
  • 1 oz dark rum
  • maraschino cherry for garnish


What to do.....?

Preparation:

  1. Pour all the ingredients except the dark rum into a shaker with ice cubes.
  2. Shake well.
  3. Strain into an old-fashioned glass half filled with ice.
  4. Top with the dark rum.
  5. Garnish with the cherry.
What next?.....drink it of course!....xx

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Something to ponder....because at times we just wonder 'why' we are not getting what we want...the answer of course is to give to others what we are lacking and then watch for the magic of receiving it all back tenfold....



Happy weekend everyone...laugh...love...live!