New Arrivals!...Damien Bredberg Photography meets Charcoal Interiors....Thai Fusion Tuna Pasta....Tony Curtis Cocktail and more....Happy Friday Folks! xx

NEW ARRIVALS!

Hi everyone and welcome to the Friday blog.  A very special welcome to our new readers!  We aim to provide a little bit of sweetness to your Fridays with our 'goings-on' in the showroom (there is never a dull moment here I can tell you that...) plus all the latest in design, info on our retail outlet, new arrivals, recipes, lifestyle tips, recipes and of course our fabulous Cocktail Friday recipe...which is just a celebration of Friday and a way to sit back, pop the shoes off and reflect on a darned good job well done thank you very much!...pat yourself on the back and lets begin.....

Firstly, this week we present our new arrivals instore.  There are just so many amazing pieces that we dont have room for everything on the blog, so for starters lets look through the front window at our new display and beautiful new 'drool-worthy' pieces.

Window Display

Our gorgeous French Style Wooden Bench Seat, in front of a backdrop of a pair of Francesco urns, exclusive custom made outdoor/indoor mirror and our gorgeous chandelier, which is a combo of antique and new.  Surrounding the Bench Seat, we have our French style outdoor table and chairs, Vintage style urns and gorgeous French Jardinierre planter filled with tulips...so Spring and just so classic.  Be one of the first to see our new arrivals this weekend.  Pop in for a browse, a chat and a bargain.  We are open Saturday and Sunday and would love to see you.

Damien Bredberg Photography Shoot

Last week we had so much going on in the showroom, and one such exciting piece of news is that respected young photographer and all-round nice guy Damien Bredberg chose Charcoal Interiors for a series of shots that will ultimately be used to create a very innovative set of photographs.  We shall share the finished product with you as soon as possible, and also a lot of the backstage shenanigans, but until then, meet Damien and check out his website.  With clients such as Nova and Absolut Vodka up his sleeve to name just a few, we are proud to support such a creative, upcoming star on the photography scene....and he is a Brisbane lad too!

http://damienbredberg.com.au/

LET'S EAT!

This week we have a great blend of my passion for pasta and the girls penchant for Thai...its our Thai Fusion Tuna Pasta.  Only takes 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so its a great, easy and quick recipe, but so packed full of flavour and it looks soooooo pretty!  Goes well with a nice glass of chilled New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, which happens to be a favourite of Colette and Cathie. Let us know what you think.

Recipe:

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 300g dried ribbon pasta
• 125ml (1/2 cup) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 lemons
• 2 x 350g pieces yellowfin tuna (see note)
• 3 eschalots, finely chopped
• 2 long red chillies, halved lengthwise, seeded, finely chopped
• 1 bunch Thai basil, leaves picked

Here's what to do.....

Method

1. Cook pasta in a saucepan of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain.
2. Meanwhile, place oil in a large frying pan. Using a vegetable peeler, thinly peel rind from lemons over the pan. Place pan over low heat and wait for the mixture to sizzle. Cook for a further minute, then remove from the heat. Remove lemon rind from oil and chop finely. Reserve lemon oil.
3. Preheat a chargrill pan over high heat. Lightly brush tuna with a little lemon oil. Cook tuna on chargrill for 45 seconds. To give it criss-cross marks, lift tuna, turn 90 degrees and cook for a further 45 seconds. Repeat on the other side for medium–rare. Season tuna with salt and pepper. Cool slightly and slice thinly.
4. Heat the remaining lemon oil in a large pan over medium heat and cook eschalots for 5 minutes or until soft.
5. Add the lemon rind, pasta, tuna, chillies, basil and the juice of 1 lemon to the pan. Toss gently to combine and warm through. Serve.

Notes

• You can substitute a drained 425g can of tuna in brine for the fresh tuna, and add it in step 5 to warm through.
  
  
  SMILE. BREATHE. ITS COCKTAIL FRIDAY.......
  
  
  
  
  HOT OFF THE PRESS....THE GUILT-FREE 'TONY CURTIS'
  is it possible to have a cocktail that leaves you feeling better the morning after? The shocking answer might just be yes! The key is in the ingredients.
  VeeV is a new spirit distilled from Idaho grains and infused with Açaí, a berry that some consider one of the healthiest foods on the planet. VeeV fuses this fruit with all-natural ingredients and a handcrafted, column distilled base wheat spirit. The result is a smooth 60 proof liqueur that balances the tangy Açaí , citrus flavors and alcohol in an infinitely mixable fashion.
  
  
  The Tony Curtis....Yes, we have named this weeks Cocktail after one of the last of the old school suave and sophisticated movie stars to grace our screens...Tony Curtis.  Yes, Tony died late last week. Boy was he one handsome, talented hunk-a-man who really did live life to the full and made a lot of people laugh with his cheeky comedy.  They just dont make them like they used to, but we have Tony's wonderful legacy of movies to watch forever more....'Some Like It Hot' was voted the Worlds Funniest Movie ever....get it out this weekend on DVD, and pop your feet up...sipping on a Tony Curtis.  I am sure he will be looking down on us with a wicked smile.....Remember people...a life fondly remembered by others is a life lived twice.....
  
  
  Tony Curtis Cocktail....
  With every bottle of Veev that you purchase, $1 is donated to Brazilian Rainforest Preservation.....This truly is ground-breaking stuff...Guilt-free Vodka!  We recommend mixing with the simple fave...tonic water.  Add a slice of lemon or lime with some crushed ice and you are well on your way to relaxation, whilst also feeling good about your contribution to saving the Rainforests of Brazil, not to mention the health benefits of the Acai Berry....The Eagle my friends has well and truly landed here on this Cocktail Friday at Charcoal....
  
  
  Wishing you all a very happy Friday.  Thank you to everyone who has graced us with their presence this week in the showroom.  Its been such a great week, made even better by the lovely cheery people that we have coming in to visit us daily.  Here's to a great weekend and we look forward to next Fridays blog with more on our New Arrivals, plus much, much more.....until then!
  Cathie...Colette and Jen (The Charcoal Girls) xxxx
  
  
  

Australian House and Garden meets Charcoal Interiors!...Christmas has come early! New Stock Arriving Daily! Footy Finals Food! Lychee Cocktails and more! Its Cocktail Friday And We Feel FABULOUS!

Hi everyone.  Join us for a bit of fun this week.  We have had stacks happening and want to share it all with you!

To say that this week has been absolutely HUGE here in the showroom, would be a complete understatement.  My apologies for the omission of the blog for last Friday....I got lost in the wine region of South Australia....honestly.  I was called upon to extensively research the Shiraz variety of grape.  Actually, I was in Adelaide to help out my brother after an operation...all went to plan and he is making a full recovery.  But, I also did indulge in the occasional vino whilst there :-)

But enough about me...here's whats been happening at Charcoal!

AUSTRALIAN HOUSE AND GARDEN MEETS CHARCOAL INTERIORS

Firstly, our very own Colette Venardos was chosen to grace the pages of Australian House and Garden magazine as their 'Featured Designer'.  Designers the likes of Jenny Kee have previously been chosen for this segment, so it was quite an honour, but also well deserved.  With over 30 years experience in the design business, Colette has definitely earned her stripes in the industry.  It was great to see her recognised, and the article will be shown early 2011.  Will keep you posted!

This week we also hosted the Christmas photo shoot for Australian House and Garden Magazine.  Christmas came early, with the delivery of a real live Christmas tree!  We have it set up at the front of the showroom by the door, so that the smell of pine wafts through......

There are so many talented artists in Brisbane, and we were fortunate enough to meet ceramicist Kim Wallace who creates gorgeous Christmas decorations, amongst other beauties.  Kim's work was featured for House and Garden.  Styling and venue provided by Charcoal Interiors.

You can find Kim's work on the link below, and be sure to check out the December/Christmas issue of Australian House and Garden for all the pics!

http://www.kwceramics.com/

FINALS FEVER FOOD

After last weeks Australian Rules Finals Draw, we are now faced with a double-whammy with Collingwood and the Saints in for a re-match along with the Rugby League Final....all on the same weekend!  Its a sports fans idea of Utopia!

And so, the recipe for this week is designed to fit in with the Finals weekend, it involves the BBQ, finger food and matches up perfectly with a nice cold beer...

Its the Footy Finals Tandoori Chicken Burger....girlie enough for the chicks and manly enough to satisfy those burger loving blokes.

FOOTBALL LOVERS TANDOORI CHICKEN BURGER

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 500g chicken mince
• 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons tandoori paste
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat plain yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 medium Lebanese cucumber, chopped
• 1 baby cos lettuce, leaves separated, washed, shredded
• 4 wholemeal bread rolls, halved, toasted

Method

1. Combine chicken, breadcrumbs and tandoori paste in a bowl. Shape mixture into four 2cm-thick patties.
2. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 5 to 7 minutes each side or until golden and cooked through.
3. 
   
   Combine yoghurt, mint and cucumber in a bowl. Place lettuce on roll bases. Top with patties, mint mixture and roll tops. Serve...........designed to be held in one hand leaving the other hand free for beer.
   
   
   
   COCKTAIL FRIDAY.....POP YOUR FEET UP....AND RELAX...

 Never has there been a week where we deserve a cocktail more than this one.  Cathie has been flat out with the floor shift to make way for all the new stock that is arriving tomorrow.  Colette has been busy with design projects and making herself fabulous for House and Garden photo shoots.  And I have been ducking and weaving as per usual....trying my best to say the right thing and keep out of trouble.  We really have just had the BEST week!  

So, we are celebrating with a deliciously indulgent Lychee Martini!

Its Cocktail Friday Folks...let's get into the swing of it....

LYCHEE MARTINI RECIPE

Lychees are in season at the moment.  They are fresh and ready for use.  

The Lychee contains on average a total 72 mg of Vitamin C per 100 grams of fruit. On average nine lychee fruits would meet an adult’s daily recommended Vitamin C requirement.  We believe that this classifies the Lychee Martini as a health drink, in turn warding off colds and also the occasional dose of scurvy.....?  So, that means you can have two or possibly three if you are looking for a real health boost!...well that's how we are going to justify it to ourselves anyway!

Ingredients

• 50ml vodka
• 25ml lychee liqueur, (Kwai Feh is a good-quality brand
• dash lychee juice, available in cartons
• 1 lychee , for decoration 

Method

Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vodka, lychee liqueur and lychee juice. Shake thoroughly and strain into a martini glass. Make a cut into the side of a lychee and sit it on the rim of the glass. 

Pop your feet up.  Light a few candles.  Turn up the Nina Simone CD....sip...and reeelax....

Next week: New Arrivals...the lowdown on all of our new gorgeous arrivals instore.  Meet Damien Bredberg Photographer to the stars...and he is going to be here in the showroom! And Much...Much more....xx

Happy Friday to everyone!  Have a fabulous weekend.

To Trend...or Not To Trend...what is the answer?...Decorating to suit your own personal style, Rice Paper Rolls, Passionfruit Mojitos...Oh Yeahhhh!...Its Cocktail Friday Daaaaaaahlink....

 

This week has been all about Design Trends here at Charcoal.  The Design Team has been asked several times by journalists to give their 'take' on the new interior decorating trends for the coming Summer months.  And the answer to that question, is that 'we don't do trend' here at Charcoal Interiors.  As far as we are concerned, spending a fortune on a new dress that suits the season trend, but never to be worn again is disasterous enough, let alone decorating a room, or worse, whole home in the latest trend of the moment.  This can be a very costly exercise and doesnt really give much scope for change.  Like that dress worn once, but now discarded and purse that much emptier, following the trend can lead to disappointment.

In respect to Interior Design, choosing the right furniture, wall colour, artworks and accessories is all about balance.  Taking the time to choose quality, classic pieces and mixing them with lush textures and rustic tones will leave you with a timeless canvas of which you can then add your seasonal pieces, i.e floral soft furnishings in Spring/Summer and warm, delicious textures for the cooler months.  This way, you end up with an inspirational space in your home, that quite frankly you will never tire of.

 

Decorating for Individuality

When you are decorating your home, choosing décor that represents your personal sense of style is much more important than sticking with a singular decorating style throughout every room. Combining different styles of design can be one of the best ways to create a home environment that is uniquely yours.

Your home décor should reflect your personality and taste. Including both rustic and contemporary elements in your home can be the perfect way to reflect your appreciation for both modern and traditional design throughout your home. A perfect visual example of a rustic mix with contemporary is in the image above, supplied by our great friends, Unique Fabrics http://www.uniquefabrics.com/international-collections/andrew-martin/chaucer  We love how there is an individuality to the room with the art and collectibles, balanced with the timeless sofa.  The addition of colour for Summer is evident, yet not overpowering.  The transition from Summer to the cooler months is effortless.

YUMMMMMMM....RICE PAPER ROLLS

INGREDIENTS

6 X 18 cm rice paper sheets

2 tbs fresh coriander, chopped

250 g cooked chicken, shredded

1 carrot cut into matchsticks

40 g snow pea sprouts

½ green capsicum, thinly sliced

125 g vermicelli noodles, cooked according to instructions

1 tbs grated lemon rind

1 tbs soy sauce

1 tbs lemon juice 

 

METHOD

In a bowl combine juice, sauces and ring with 1 tbs of water and set aside.

Place all ingredients separately on the bench.

Fill a bowl with warm water and dip one rice paper at a time into the warm water. Let soak for 30 sec or until soft and then place on the bench.

Place a small amount of each ingredient (except sauce) in the centre of paper. Fold one end over and roll up to enclose, leaving one end open.

Repeat to make 6 rolls and serve with dipping sauce. 

IT'S COCKTAIL FRIDAY DAAAAAAAHHHLING....

Getting into the Spring of it....with a Passionfruit Mojito

Ingredients

• 2  parts Passion Fruit Mojito mix
• 1  part white rum
• Ice
• Club soda
• Mint sprigs
• Lime slices

---

Directions

1. Combine in a pitcher 2 parts Passion Fruit Mojito mix, 1 part white rum, and ice. Mix, then pour into ice-filled glasses. Top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime slice. 

 Relax, put your feet up and most importantly....Enjoy!

Wishing everyone a very Happy Weekend!  Be sure to come and visit us over the weekend.  Our sale is drawing to a close....so be quick for some great savings on quality furniture, rugs, lighting and accessories.

Until next week!....

Sprucing up for Spring, Our Home Cover Story, Colettes Spring Tips for Freshing up a Room, Art in your Home...Its so Easy!..Dominique Portet, The Cherry Vixen....Plus! Savoury Pancakes with Super Salsa!...

Spring has well and truly sprung, and from what I can glean from the comments lately from our Interstate followers on Facebook, the pleasant warm change is not only just isolated to us Brisbanians!

We have had so many people coming into the showroom this week, who want to refresh an old tired looking room for Spring.  Our Senior Designer and co-director of Charcoal...Colette Venardos has been busy putting together some fabulous design ideas for her clients.  

One client has a room that just needs that little bit of something extra to really give it a bit of colour...Colette has found a gorgeous imported French Fabric to use for an upholstery project in this room...it will add a nuance of interest and colour without being too overwhelming.  

Colette suggests the use of  a hint of colour and patterning in a room.  She says "You dont overwhelm with too much pattern...it is brought in with subtleties rather than overpowering...I honestly feel that too many patterns congest a room.  Keeping things subtle guarantees a room its classic, timelessness".

 COURIER MAIL HOME ARTICLE

On the weekend, Charcoal Interiors featured heavily in the Courier Mail Home section. In fact, we were the Cover Story, with a couple of our design projects showcased, and not to mention the cover of Home Magazine Liftout...not quite the Rolling Stones, but we were pretty chuffed.  You dont get chosen for these things unless the belief is there and we were thrilled and honoured to be chosen by the Courier Mail.

  In the article, Cathie was interviewed and asked for her expert opinion on Artworks and how they are able to add style and tone to a home.  The good news when it comes to collecting art for your home, is that there are no rules to be broken.   Cathie says " Home decorators are now digressing from the "this goes with that, goes with this" packaged look of design and thinking more of the idea of putting a traditional armchair with a modern clean-line sofa...and Cathie goes further "Its OK to infuse all of that with artwork and pieces that crate an eclectic fusion of styles.  It brings together that whole timeless feel and gives a home its soul".

 Charcoal Interiors Exclusive Project Featuring Dean Reilly Artwork

We have some amazing artworks in our showroom by Archibald Prize and Moran Prize finalist Dean Reilly...be sure to pop into the Valley this weekend for the Valley Fiesta, and come visit us too!

Our Sale is almost over...Do Not Miss Out on significant discounts available now.

VALLEY FIESTA

Valley Fiesta...Fortitude Valley comes alive this weekend with amazing live performances, art, fashion, food and so much more.  For more information click on the link below and be sure to visit us while in the Valley Precinct...we are the heart and soul of art, fashion and style.

http://www.ourbrisbane.com/whats-on/valley-fiesta-feature

DOMINIQUE PORTET

Part of the excitement of working in this gorgeous showroom space every day, is that you just dont know who is going to walk in through the doors.  

This week we were delighted to welcome Dominique Portet, Owner of Dominique Portet Winery in Victoria.  Such a delightful man, and we have promised to visit him next time we are in the Yarra Valley.  Being a bit of a wine buff, I am particularly looking forward to sampling his wine, that has been lauded by the likes of James Halliday. 

http://www.dominiqueportet.com/department/cellar_door/ 

FOOD

Anybody who walks into the showroom between the hours of 1pm and 3pm will find us at some point stuffing ourselves with the weeks new recipe.  We decided to try a Healthy Savoury Pancake Recipe with fresh Salsa Topping.  I made the Pancakes the night before, let them cool, wrapped them in alfoil and then refrigerated overnight.  I did the same with the salsa....preprepared it, except for the Avocado, which I cut up fresh and then served up immediately to keep that lovely colour to the avocado.  I also added a bit of fresh coriander as a garnish to keep the colour up and vibrancy and freshness to the dish.  It was a fantastic, easy recipe and perfect for Spring lunches, dinners or it would be great to bring along to a picnic.

Spinach and Feta Pancakes

Ingredients

• 1 quantity Basic pancakes (see easy peasy Pancake recipe below)
• 1/2 bunch English spinach, trimmed, shredded
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 100g Greek-style feta, crumbled 

Basic Pancake Recipe...makes 10

• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 egg
• 2 cups self-raising flour
• 1/4 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 
• Pinch of salt

Method

1. Whisk all pancake ingredients together in a bowl until all the lumps are out and its nice and smooth.
2. Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Brush pan with butter. Using 1/4 cup mixture per pancake, cook 2 pancakes for 3 to 4 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface. Turn and cook for 3 minutes or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm. Repeat with remaining mixture, brushing pan with butter between batches. Serve with the salsa dressing (see below) on top and add the Avocado last to keep it fresh, and a vibrant colour to the dish....enjoy!

Serve with: Diced Tomato, parsley, coriander, avocado and red onion salsa (just mix all these ingredients together in a bowl, adding a drizzle of lemon juice and balsamic..and a tiny sprinkle of raw sugar)

Add 2 to 3 tablespoons extra milk if batter is too thick, or has thickened on standing.

To 'freshen-up' day-old pancakes, microwave, covered with paper towel, on medium-high (70%) for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until heated through.

Welcome one and all to Friday Cocktail Hour...today, we bring to you the very sexy and delicious...

CHERRY VIXEN....sigh...Oh, we do love Cocktail Friday so....For this one, you are going to need to set the mood with some Barry White and Candlelight.....Oohhhh Babeeeee....

Cherry Vixen

Makes 1 cocktail

Ingredients: 2 ounces Frangelico
1/2 ounce grenadine
1/2 ounce Kahlua
1 cherry or Hershey kiss

Directions: Combine Frangelico and grenadine in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until foamy. Strain into a chilled martini glass and top with Kahlua. Garnish with a cherry or kiss!...Mwaah!

As we pull down those big shopfront rollerdoors on yet another Friday, we say kick off your shoes, put your feet up and ponder another week in the battlezone of life survived.  Here's to family, friends and Friday!

Have a great weekend!

Spring Has Sprung!...Our Rice Bucket Floral Displays..Sale..Sale..Sale...Did someone mention a Sale?...Fathers Day with Johnny and Hugh...Dads BBQ Rub..Go on Spoil Him!..and 'Ol Deanos Scotch with a Twist...Happy Friday!!

Spring Has Sprung
Here in Brisbane, it feels like, just as Alice and her Looking Glass, we have stepped through winter and straight into Spring!  

There is a beautiful warmth in the air and people have come out of hibernation...the streets are busy with browsers,shoppers, families with prams, joggers, cyclists and more.  We just love this time of year.

We are just loving our Asian Rice Buckets.....

Our gorgeously large Rice Buckets are the perfect way to showcase your garden blooms.  Our rice buckets are all authentic and most still wear the original chinese markings.  All that is needed is some greenery from the garden, placed in a container filled with water, and you have a stunning display that is super easy to achieve at home.

Our Sale is Still Going Strong!...We need to make way for even more new arrivals after a lovely little shopping spree again this week...we love to shop for YOU xx

Helloooo Spring!

Spring brings with it 'sunshiney' days,  al-fresco dining, fresh flowers, crisp sun-dried white linen, fresh spring herbs like mint, coriander and dill, Sundays spent gardening, after a morning of coffee and the paper anywhere you can catch some sun.  For some its out on the deck, and others a favourite front door step.  

Either way, we all love Spring, and indulge in it our own way.  Over the coming weeks we are going to be sharing with you our favourite Spring tips on how to freshen up your home, wardrobe organisational secrets, colours and textures for the change of season, our great Gardenscape ideas...wait until you see our new French urns to die for...and just so much more.  Spring is here and we have some amazing ideas to share.

Fathers Day

Fathers Day is almost here....how are you going to spoil Dad?  Speaking of Fathers Day...lets reflect for a moment on some of the famous Fathers of the World.....

Hugh Jackman...what an incredible Dad he must be....oh, and then heres another devoted father...

...Johnny Depp...of whom we admire from afar for his excellent parenting skills also...

OK...OK...so we are using the fact that its Fathers Day by unashamedly posting pictures of gorgeous men, who just happen to be Dads!!....its Friday...and it made us feel good anyway! :-)

Happy Fathers Day to all the Dads, and we hope you enjoy the super simple recipe below.

Fathers Day BBQ Ideas

We love our Dads don't we?  How are you going to make yours feel special this Sunday for Fathers Day?

The quintessential way to celebrate your Dad and all he does for you, is to cook up a storm on the BBQ this Sunday....whether it be for Brekky, Lunch or Dinner, just the smells emanating from the cook up will have him smiling like a Cheshire Cat!

Here's a super easy Fathers Day BBQ idea for you that's amazingly simple and super tasty. Spicy Barbecue Rub!

Jazz up your barbecued meat this Fathers Day with a spicy rub.

Blend a mixture of spices, such as ground cumin, coriander and paprika, then season with salt and pepper. Or, buy an already-blended season mix (try Cajun or Moroccan).

Sprinkle it over meat, such as chicken breasts, lamb cutlets or pork medallions, to be barbecued, and use your fingers to gently rub the spice mixture into the meat. Set aside for 15 minutes for the flavours to be infused. Preheat your barbecue well before char-grilling and brush the meat with oil before cooking as this will prevent the meat sticking (brushing the barbecue with oil can cause flare-ups).

For extra flavour, use rosemary stems as a food ‘brush’ and try a flavoured oil, such as garlic or basil.

Dads Cocktail Friday

We haven't forgotten the Dads this week, so please indulge yourselves in this very masculine of drinks...

Scotch on the Rocks...with a twist.

This one is just soooo easy.

Pour your Scotch over ice with a twist of lemon peel. Twist the lemon peel to release the zest (aromatic oils) and run the peel along the rim of the glass, then put it in the drink.  Tinkle that ice and swig away....playing a bit of the old Dean Martin in the background does help to get one in the mood too...'Everybody...loves Somebody..Sometimes....'

Happy Friday to everyone...we hope you have a wonderful weekend.  We are all off to the River Fire Festival on Saturday night and will take lots of piccies to show you next week...until then...

Bye Bye Winter...Helloooo Spring!...Urbane Edge Article with one Half of our Design Team....Sell, Sell, Sell...More Exclusive Charcoal Project Peeks...Sweet Treats...Anatoly, The Rug Guru...Best Dukkah Recipe In The World...Dukkah Encrusted Lamb and Kiwi Cocktails..What More Could You Want on a Friday?..enjoy xx

Its almost official....

Spring is nearly here!

Whilst some of you may be dreading the warmer weather being just on our doorstep, we are all pretty happy about the change of season.

Spring brings with it the smell of Jasmine, BBQ's on a Sunday, Sundresses, Picnics and the obligatory...for some..Spring Clean.  We love everything about Spring, and look forward to introducing you to some absolutely amazing new pieces that we will be bringing in to the showroom.  We simply cant wait!  Plus, there will be a fresh new menu of gloriously healthy and tasty dishes to please the palate...and with all that seasonal fruit coming in, we have finished test driving some excellent new Cocktail Friday recipes...just part of the job criteria...someone's got to make sure they are delicious!

Urbane Edge

This week, our Cathie Venardos...One half of the design team here at Charcoal, was interviewed by the Big and Glossy Brisbane News.  Cathie gave an insight on her design style, art and furniture pieces purchased during her travels.  For those of you who don't live in Brisbane, and haven't seen the article, here's a peek for you....click on the pic and it will enlarge if you are finding it hard to decipher.

Our Sale is Still Going Strong

With so many amazing discounts on selected stock, you are sure to find something perfect for your home.

Pop in over the weekend and step into a world of inspiration!

Serving Up More Inspiration...

Next week, we showcase our latest Exclusive Charcoal Interiors design project...here's a sneak peek.  This home was completely reduced to a shell and has been transformed and updated into a beautiful space.  We look forward to sharing the Before and After images with you over the coming weeks...wait until you see the bathroom!

Lounge Living...more Photos next week.

Golden Day

Sometimes you just have one of those days, that are just 'Golden', because we had two wonderful surprises in one day this week.  The first was a delivery of Organic Belgian White Chocolate and Fresh Coffee from a client that we had helped style his apartment for sale....Then, mere minutes later, 3 bunches of beautiful Spring blooms were delivered for us....a thank you for all the girls hard work from an appreciative client and all-round great lady.  We felt just so spoilt and it was a fabulous day indeed.  

Here we are looking very chuffed with ourselves....

Cathie..Colette and Jen

Every Stylish Home Needs at Least One....

This week, as promised we bring to you our Host with the Most..Anatoly Frusin!  Anatoly is our Rug consultant here at Charcoal Interiors, and brings with him a wealth of knowledge on the beautiful handwoven rugs that we stock here in the showroom.  

Please click on the link below which will take you to a short video presentation by Anatoly, with a brief outline of some of the rugs we have instore.....enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8QpEUa7UbY&feature=channel

'Drool-worthy Delights'

Fancy something tasty and super healthy for dinner or lunch? 

We feel we have excelled ourselves with this weeks recipe...braggers...

We do love a good Dukkah...there's nothing nicer than dipping some really fresh Turkish Bread into a quality Cold Pressed Olive Oil, and then dunking into a great Dukkah Mix.

With Egyptian origins, Dukkah is a spice blend of toasted nuts and seeds, and has become a international favorite over the past few years, thanks to its popularity first in Australian restaurants and then among home cooks and food blogs. The warm, aromatic mixture is addictive when served as a dip with bread and olive oil. We've also been sprinkling it on everything else lately – roasted vegetables, pasta, feta cheese, and even peaches, not to mention the wonderful crust it makes for meat and fish....speaking of which, heres a fab recipe for Dukkah Encrusted Lamb Chops.  You can use this recipe and method for any meat...fish, chicken, or you can roll a vegetable like cauliflower into the mix and bake in the oven...now that's delicious too.  Dukkah is very versatile and so healthy too.  Dazzle your friends with the recipe below...they will think you have had lessons!

Dukkah Encrusted Lamb Chops

Dukkah is available in many stores nowadays.  Its not just a gourmet item anymore and you can find it by the packet on jar in most supermarkets.  Making your own is easy.  Pistachios are a lovely addition to a Dukkah mix and they give a pleasant sweetness.  Here are some ideas for your Dukkah mix below.  Grind up in a processor, or get into the traditional way with a Mortar and Pestle...really get your elbow into it, and then be sure to stop...take a rest...sip the Cocktail from the recipe below...pace yourself now...and begin again....

Basic Ingredients
• Nuts – hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, cashews, pine nuts, macadamia nuts
• Sesame seeds
• Coriander
• Cumin

Optional Additions
• Dried chickpeas
• Dried herbs – marjoram, mint, thyme
• Dried lemon zest
• Hot pepper – red pepper flakes, chili powder
• Pepper – freshly ground or whole peppercorns
• Salt
• Seeds – caraway, fennel, nigella
• Spices – cinnamon, clove, turmeric
• Sugar

Dukkah (Basic Recipe)
Makes 2 1/4 cups

1 cup nuts
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup coriander seeds
1/4 cup cumin seeds
1 teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Toast nuts and seeds in separate batches. Let cool completely.

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse. The mixture may fine or coarse, depending on personal preference, but be sure it is dry and crumbly. Over-mixing will turn it into a paste. (Can also use a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.)

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. 

Once you have your mix to your satisfaction and taste, drizzle a good quality olive oil over your lamb chops...rub in a quality rock salt and then coat in the Dukkah mix.  Heat your pan with oil and sear the chops on both sides for 2 - 3 minutes each.  Place the chops onto aluminium foil and seal for 15 minutes to rest the meat.

In the meantime...take your time here now...another sip of your drink...soo nice and relaxing isnt it?...and I do like that music in the background...bit of Angus and Julia Stone perhaps?...or a Katie Noonan track or two...blissful...now, where were we?  Oh yes, the salad.  Now, whilst waiting on the resting of the meat, throw together a nice green salad...pop a side of plain yoghurt on your plate...shake up some lemon juice with a bit of salt, pepper, balsamic and olive oil and drizzle this over the salad.  Arrange the meat and salad on the plate with your chops...and Voila!...its a meal fit for the MasterChef judges.  Enjoy!

Happiness Comes in Many Forms...Puppies, Shoe Shopping, Sass and Bide and.....Cocktails!

Happy Friday to all.  Hope you have had a great one...Let's Celebrate with a...

Kiwi Fruit Cocktail...Fresh...Sparky...and oh, so delicious!..and guess what?..you deserve one...

The Friday Kiwi Cocktail

Its as Easy as Mix, Shake and Pour

Mix

2 shots of Gin
0.25 shots of Lemon Juice
0.5 shots of Sugar Syrup
1 whole peeled Kiwi

Shake

Peel and quarter the Kiwi, muddle with the Gin in the mixing tin, add the other ingredients, add lots of ice, shake and fine strain.

Pour

Serve in a Martini glass and garnish with a kiwi slice.

Thank you to all our wonderful customers and blog readers, facebook followers etc..for another amazing week here at Charcoal Interiors.  We just love being part of The Valley precinct and hope to see you in this part of the world one day soon.  Grab a coffee, and stroll the streets of James, Wandoo and Doggett and be sure to pop into the showroom at 18 Doggett St, Fortitude Valley...we would love to see you.  Mention the blog and we will give you an even bigger smile!...til next week...we are off to collect more goodies for you on Monday...another shopping excursion just for you.  Cant wait to share all our treasures.  Have a great weekend.

Cathie...Colette..and Jen..The Charcoal Girls xxx

Fashionista Heaven In Brisbane, Valentino, Paul Hunt, Maiocchi and the Valley Arts Precinct, Sale, Sale, Sale!...did we mention we are having a Sale?...Latest Andrew Martin Offerings, Rhubarb and Pear Crumble...the Lola Cocktail and more!...Happy Friday to one and all!

This week:  Fashionista Heaven!

Brisbane has been all 'abuzz' over the past couple of week with the opening of the Valentino Collection at Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art.....

 .........plus the Mercedes Benz Fashion Festival.

We wanted to take the time to acknowledge our neighbours here in the Valley precinct, who made the cut at the Fashion Festival.

Congrats to Paul Hunt on a successful show...we now hear you are being touted as Brisbanes Alex Perry!

As mentioned last week, we hosted the photo shoot for the National Label 'Maiocchi'.  Maiocchi featured heavily at the Mercedes Fashion Festival also.  We simply dont know how creator, Dee has managed to juggle all of this whilst in the final stages of pregnancy.  Its all about passion for what you do.

We wanted to share with you, a couple of the completed photos, all ready for the new range promotion.

We are loving this one of Maiocchi model in our deliciously sumptuous Wing Back chair in rich velvet fabric.

Loving this jacket...and the backdrop...our Antique Asian Screen

You can discover more of our beautiful 'finds'on our website

www.charcoalinteriors.com.au

There really is just so much talent here in the Valley...pop in to the showroom on the weekend for some inspiration and bargains, as our SALE is still going strong.  Grab a coffee at Campos on Wandoo and roam the precinct.  

We have amazing designers, galleries, fashion houses, restaurants and cafes, all at your disposal.  We are very proud to work amongst such a buzzy, creative atmosphere!

We just cant get enough of the new Andrew Martin Collections.  Their releases never fail to have a quirky, eclectic edge but at the same time always manage to be very useable in an interior scheme. 

Their new collection 'Spectator' hits the mark again. It features strong graphic design inspired by pop culture. From Steven Sprouse to posters for The Beatles and movie fan-zines; this is a fun, striking collection, which will definitely add some interest and energy to a room.

We are lucky enough to live in a country where we have access to a multitude of fresh produce.  Winter brings some great choices in seasonal fruit and vegetables.  We have been enjoying some delicious soups over the cold months thanks to Colette with her divine recipes (see recipes in our index, or send me a message and I can forward them on to you).  This week, we stumbled on a delectable recipe using seasonal Rhubarb and Pears...you can also add Strawberries to this dish.  As is our way...we only feature recipes that we would cook ourselves, so you will find this dessert quick, easy and packed with flavour. 10 minutes to prepare..you cant go wrong.  Its a nourishing, warming way to end the week.....enjoy!

RHUBARB AND PEAR CRUMBLE....OH YEAH!

Ingredients (serves 4)

• Melted butter to grease
• 3 (Buerre Bosc) pears peeled, cored and coarsley chopped
• 1 bunch rhubarb washed, trimmed, coarsely chopped
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 160g butter
• 150g Arnott's Granita biscuits, coarsely crushed
• 25g (1/3) cup shredded coconut
• Vanilla ice-cream or double cream to serve

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Brush four 250ml (1-cup) ovenproof ramekins with melted butter to grease. Place pear, rhubarb, orange juice, cinnamon and half the butter in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat for 6-8 minutes or until pear and rhubarb are just tender. Divide among the ramekins.
2. Meanwhile, place the biscuit and coconut in a medium bowl. Use your fingertips to rub the remaining butter into the biscuit mixture until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the biscuit mixture over the pear mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden. Serve with cream or vanilla ice-cream.
   Tip: A delicious addition to this recipe is seasonal strawberries..which are just so fresh right now.  Just halve the amount of pear and add strawberries in its place.

We really do have to stop meeting like this!

Welcome to another exciting edition of Cocktail Friday.

Well, the Kinks sang about her, and they have named a sofa after her....next thing you know, they will be naming drink after her...and Voila!..they have. 

We are rather fond of our beautiful 'Lola' sofa that we have in the showroom...and its on Sale.

The 'Lola'.  Must Go To Good Home!

I was deeeeelighted to find that there is a cocktail recipe called The Lola!  What a great coincidence and another excuse to try something different.

And...so off we toddled to the Cru Bar to celebrate our 

1000th Blog View!

Thank you to everyone for your support of the blog.  We love to hear from you, and the feedback has been amazing.  We have heard from readers far and wide, and even had customers comment on our recipes and how much they enjoy the Cocktail Friday Phenomena!

It's all very encouraging and makes us feel good!

And, so here are a couple of happy snaps taken of the Lola Cocktail and other various concoctions downed last week.  We actually do work very hard and so  this is our little treat on a Friday....and the least we can do is encourage you to do the same.

...COCKTAIL FRIDAY...

The Recipe

1. Orange Juice - 3/4 oz.
2. Cream - 1/2 oz.
3. Rum - 1.75 oz.
4. Mandarine Napoleon - 3/4 oz.
5. Cream de Cacao - 3/4 oz.

Method

Place all ingredients in a cocktail shaker....now, heres the hard part..shake, shake, shake...and pour into a cocktail glass...........mmmmmmm....yummmm....

Another great week.  Wishing everyone a terrific Friday, and a happy and fun weekend.

Next week sneak peek:  Anatoly gives us a tour of the rugs in stock and some exciting news for one of our designers......its all on the blog and its all next Friday.

Cheers...from  the Charcoal Girls