EMPIRE Blogs

Mad about NYC

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 04:28:33 -0700

New York's Mad Men Style - At EMPIRE

The TV sensation Mad Men, based in New York City in the early 1960's, has reverberated throughout the style and design industry since it hit TV screens in 2007. The show has won over audiences across the world, particularly because of its historical authenticity and visual appeal; the series serves as a virtual showcase of fashion and design trends from the era.

At EMPIRE we are obsessed with the Mad Men look, seeking new ways to incorporate this retro aesthetic into modern interior design. We can't wait to share our latest finds with you at one of our EMPIRE stores today!

We just love the eclectic style of 60's Manhattan!

EMPIRE has a selection of pieces that echo the Mad Men look so successfully, you might think we had pinched a few props right off the set of this famed drama series.

Visit one of our EMPIRE stores today and take home your very own Mad Men-style souvenir. You'll have your 60's New York-pad-down- under ready to show off in no time.

Continuing our love of all things NYC...

Reinvent classic New York style with a Modern Twist by Vera Wang.

Can you imagine having the best of everything?

The perfect wedding.

You're clad in a custom-made creation of New York's top gown designer. Your bridesmaids are in matching classics with elegantly cut floral bouquets. Your accessories make a decadent statement... all shining jewels and soft metallics. Sky-high heels perfectly complement your couture-cut dress. Your encrusted ballet flats are safely wedged in your shiny patent carry-all, ready for when you hit the chic streets of the Big Apple after the ceremony. You are the picture of success and extravagance. Every table-setting features mountains of fresh spring flowers, classic Wedgewood fine china, and contemporary flatware. Delicate crystal glasses are set atop rows of tables for your guests, each gifted with a Love Knots scented candle. You have thought everything through for your special day. Of course, you chose Vera Wang designs.

Vera Wang: New York's Number One

The New York based Vera Wang brand has long been synonymous with luxury, high-end taste and design opulence. The multi-talented visionary lends her elegant hand to various high-end fashion arenas, and now, right here in Perth, you can experience the top class aesthetic that has made her famous amongst the style set. The Vera Wang for Wedgewood collection is available at EMPIRE Highgate and Dunsbrough. Featuring a selection of dinnerware, glassware, flatware, gifts and home decor, her product line sees classic form stunningly reinvented for the 21st century, all the way from New York City.

Retreat to Splendour

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:25:12 -0700

In need of a quick get-away?

Nestled in the Margaret River Wine Region of Western Australia's South-West is EMPIRE Retreat. A 3.5 hour drive from Perth, this oasis of luxury and style is located off of Caves Road amidst 265 acres of tranquil Yallingup bushland. EMPIRE Retreat offers boutique accommodation designed to seclude and rejuvenate, and was the recent winner of the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence. Whilst the gorgeous surrounds might feel appropriately remote, you're still only ten minutes from the hub; a spot of shopping or a taste of vibrant cafe and restaurant culture is just around the corner in thriving Dunsborough, making it the perfect destination for the sophisticated city traveller seeking a temporary haven of chic.

Rejuvinate

Feel like really spoiling yourself?

In addition, the EMPIRE Spa delivers the ultimate pampering experience! Comprised of bathing suites with large stone baths, rainforest shower suites and steam room, EMPIRE Spa's rituals & treatments are specifically designed to accommodate your individual needs. View the range of new spa treatments now on offer at: www.empireretreat.com/empire-spa

Palate Cleanse

And what about fine dining?

For the first time in its history, EMPIRE Estate will soon release its very own Semillion Sauvignon Blanc for guests to enjoy. This fine drop is considered to be the perfect complement to an EMPIRE's sumptuous gourmet platter! View our new gourmet platter at: www.empireretreat.com/food-and-beverage/gourmet-platter/

And for those lucky enough to be living near to the area, Empire is now opening its doors to the public every Friday evening from 6-7pm for wine tastings. Even the most privileged south-west dweller is sure to be impressed.

EMPIRE Retreat

Caves Road, Yallingup. WA. 6282

To make a booking at EMPIRE, Phone: +618 9755 2065. Fax: +618 9755 or visit our website: www.empireretreat.com

EMPIRE state of mind

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 02:33:24 -0700

At EMPIRE, we look to the masters for our inspiration, and as such, are hugely excited about the newly announced exhibition from New York's Museum of Modern Art.

'From Picasso to Warhol' is set to hit our shores next June, and will be showing at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. AGWA director and former New York curator, Stafano Carboni, has joined forces with the state gallery and MOMA to showcase this exclusive-to-WA blockbuster exhibition, showcasing 120 bona fide masterpieces. The selected works have never before been shown outside of MOMA, and featured artists include Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Henri Matisse, Piet Mondrian and Jackson Pollock. The June exhibition is the first of six showcases from New York's MOMA to be held in Perth, all of which will be previewing over the next three years. The partnership will see a world exclusive branch of the famous New York Museum in the Perth Cultural Centre until the end of 2015.

Get ready for your creative senses to be stimulated, EMPIRE can’t wait!

EMPIRE values and supports the creative arts, and is therefore understandably excited to be involved in the upcoming PICA Salon 2011 fundraiser event, to be held on Friday June 17. Empire Highgate owner & designer Renee Coleman is set to style a room exclusively for the specially curated event, which will feature esteemed Australian and international artists who have had their work exhibited at PICA over the past twenty years. The space will be transformed to emulate the luxury of a Louis VIX/Marie Antionette-style French boudoir. This inspiring display, along with the rare original works available for sale, is not to be missed. All proceeds from the event will go directly to the artists. Tickets are available for purchase via the PICA website.

Photo by Ed Schipul

Global Inspiration

Sun, 22 May 2011 17:39:51 -0700

As the world of design and culture constantly evolves, we see a flow of new and innovative ideas hitting centre stage. The flood of inspiration never seems to stop, which is fantastic for us as we're always on the lookout for the next best thing.

International Contemporary Furniture Fair 2011

The International Contemporary Furniture Fair has brought together some amazing designs this year.

Held in New York City, the ICFF displayed the works of 590 exhibitors from over 40 countries. There was a host of modern, practical and fun creations from a stream of cutting edge designers looking to make their mark.

While it feels that we may be reaching a crescendo in furniture design, new designers and manufacturers continue to enter the market and deliver something fresh. Undoubtedly there will be much more in store in the coming months and we'll be right here to follow it.

Off the beaten path...or maybe not

If you're looking for an exciting city break, have you considered Beirut in Lebanon or Yellowknife, near the Canadian arctic?

These destinations aren't as far-fetched as they sound. Lonely Planet has compiled a list of 10 greatest comeback cities a selection of 10 unique cities with distinct histories, that were once in decline, but have now been restored to their former glory.

In the last 30 years, Beirut has redefined itself as a fun and vibrant major city. Full of history, culture and cosmopolitan grandeur, Beirut has been rebuilt from nearly total devastation and is now a hot spot for international fashionistas and partygoers alike.

Yellowknife, a modern diamond mining city in the middle of the Canadian subarctic, enjoys surprisingly warm summers. If you like fishing, the secret spots here are literally, anywhere and everywhere. This stunning fertile wilderness is just teeming with wildlife.

The 2011 Eurovision Song Contest

Since 1956, the Eurovision Song Contest has won the attention of millions. Over the years the Eurovision Song Contest has definitely had its share of hits and misses.

Love it or hate it, no one can deny Eurovision's widespread popularity. When it comes to light hearted entertainment, for many the Eurovision Song Contest is a long standing tradition. See it here: www.eurovision.tv

What was your favourite song of this year's Eurovision Song Contest?

"Mum's the word"

Tue, 03 May 2011 15:23:03 -0700

With Mother's Day fast approaching, finding that special Mother's Day gift can sometimes be a daunting task. If you are looking for a unique gift that will make her day one to remember, Empire has a selection of perfect presents.

To celebrate the occasion, we are taking 15% off everything in store, until Sunday 8 May. All you have to do is say the code phrase "mum's the word" to receive your discount.

Beautiful robes, towels and cushions from Missoni

With winter approaching, treat your mum with a warm and comfortable gift from Missoni. Missoni’s stylish products speak quality. Their new range of cushions and pillows for 2011 is now in stock.

Homewares that make a home beautiful

We have a stunning range of homewares that will add warmth to any interior. Check out our latest stock of exclusive brands at Empire Myaree.

A relaxing stay at Empire Retreat

Why not surprise your mum with a gift certificate from our Spa Retreat in Yallingup? With a huge range of accommodation and spa packages available, Empire Retreat provides the ultimate getaway, with serene luxury, comfort and pampering that will really take the weight off your mum's shoulders.

Spoil mum with a back, neck and scalp massage to loosen muscular tension followed by facial therapy with a rejuvenating eye treatment to add radiance. Choose from our luxurious Eminence Organics or Sodashi skin care ranges. Let us take your mum on a journey of renewal and deep relaxation that she so deserves!!

Mothers Day Pamper - 90min treatment only $150 Valued at $210 - Offer Ends 15/05/2011. Contact the Spa for further details: (08) 9755 2233 or spa@worldofempire.com

What is the best thing your mum taught you?

Affordable Luxury Ideas: Country Cottage Comfort

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:30:00 -0700

One of our guiding lights at EMPIRE is the pursuit of affordable luxury. If you're decorating budget is a little tighter than normal this year, going for the country cottage look could be just the ticket. After all, cottages are meant to have that wonderful comfortable feel of a home that has grown over the ages – where rooms have become filled over time with assortments and oddments and sticks of furniture which, don't necessarily fit in the same era or style but, somehow, come together to make a place a home.

Creating cottage

The cottage look works best with a rustic, pared-back surface or two. If you already have exposed brick walls or wooden floorboards, that's a great start, but, it’s not essential. (Have a look at our EMPIRE Retreat website for great examples.) You can make you floors look more country with a rug, possibly of sisal. Add landscape pictures - as appropriate depending whether you're going for Australian, French or English 'cottage' style - old signs, clocks or shelves to walls to help achieve the look. Once you have these elements in place, dress it up with mismatched furniture from various eras and delicious treasures you've found while antiquing. Check out some more style ideas here.

Combining Function and Form

Consider ways to make the functional aspects of your home part of the décor. An oversized train station clock on a brick wall makes a beautiful statement piece while keeping everyone on time. Why not put a long rectangular mirror in your bathroom instead of a standard-sized shaving cabinet? Adding a wall-sized mirror in a small room makes it seems larger and lighter while giving a few wellplaced candles a fireplace effect in the evening.

Timeless and tireless

The great thing about country cottage style is that it never goes out of fashion. An investment in the piece of furniture or item (a rug or antique vase, for instance) that helps set-off any cottage room is an investment that will last you many years without regret. An excellent way to add an instant country cottage feel to a house is with a big, solid kitchen suite. You know the kind of thing – looks like it has seen a lot of dough kneading, cuppa-time elbow resting, and solid enough to take any hammering the kids could give it. Take a look at EMPIRE’s rustic range for inspiration.

On trend spend

The best thing about going country cottage in 2011 is that it is on trend. Consider the blogs we've posted over recent months – the country cottage look readily incorporates retro and antique furniture, personalising a room with photos, or including quirky object d'art. The colour palette is also infinite. You can go white, following the lighter trend, or you can go bold and add a splash of vibrant colour.

Why have you chosen a country cottage look for your home and how did you make it work?

Stress Relief

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:00:00 -0700

It's been a long, stiflingly hot and exhausting summer. Doesn't it seem like Christmas was forever ago already? As the stress of the working year starts to bite, it's important to take time out for yourself. But when the scorching heat has killed-off the garden and relentless 30C+ days have made even nipping out for a coffee seem anything but relaxing, it can be hard find a way to escape and enjoy that precious 'me time'; we all crave.

Take a moment

If you're hot and bothered, tired, and stressed from juggling a household, a family and your work commitments, it can be really hard to find even a moment to relax. If you're feeling trapped, there are some great tips available to help you wind down and lower your stress levels.

Endorphin Rush

For starters, exercise (while, let's be honest, involves a fair bit of effort) like running or swimming depletes stress hormones and releases mood-improving chemicals helping you cope with stress. At the very least, have a stretch to help you release the tension held in your body. Focus on your shoulders, neck, hands and legs – perhaps even your jaw. You can also turn off the radio on the drive home and enjoy a little silence.

Better yet? Get away

If you're really lucky, you might be able to get away. The very best way to unwind is to leave your stresses behind for a few days. Drop the kids with your folks, send the canine to the Pampered Pooch Motel and follow the Forrest Highway into the beautiful South-West. If the green, lush, West Australian bush isn’t enough to relax you on its own, there's always a winery or six to visit. Of course, the EMPIRE Retreat and Spa is located in the Margaret River region to help even the most stressed parent or executive unwind. We have a range of services, treatments, products and packages, including a three-night mid-week special which might be just the break you're looking for!

What's your favourite way to unwind?

Beach Shack Chic

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 08:30:00 -0800

Summer doesn't seem to want to leave us this year but, rest assured, soon the skies will turn from blue to grey and the endless days of stifling heat will be a distant memory. While that sounds like a great idea right now, come the pits of winter we will be dreaming about the day we can pop on our bathers, grab a towel and head down to the beach. It is possible to capture the spirit of summer in your own home, year round. Beach shack chic is a timeless decorating style – whether you're actually decorating your seaside holiday house or bringing a little bit of the coast to the city. Here's how to achieve it.

Coastal colour

In a word, beach shack colours are bright. You can incorporate almost any bright colour into your home to make it feel sunny but generally colours which reflect the sea, the sky and the sand are the traditional hues. Azure blues, navy, sandy yellows and Plimsoll line reds all set against sail white are the way to go. It's also a great idea to include not just the colours of the beach but the textures. Place smooth beach pebbles to cover the dirt in pot plants. Include a few shells on the bathroom vanity or a large, polished conch shell as a centrepiece on the dining table. You can also incorporate a little rope, fish-netting or perhaps a lifesaving ring – but remember that less is probably more. You don't want to look like a 1970s fish and chip shop. For a few more ideas, check out interior decorating tips for Beach Rooms.

Solid, sturdy, salty

Traditional beach shack furniture is solid. It's built to last because it tends to get hit by all weathers – including the constant blast of salt. When decorating in this style it's important to select durable pieces. Consider large, solid dining tables that can endure long, care-free, holiday dinner parties and heavy coffee tables you can put your feet on without getting growled at. Take a look at EMPIRE's Boatwood Signature Range for good examples that fit into the beach theme perfectly.

How do you incorporate a bit of the beach into your home?

Design Trend: Make it Last.

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 09:30:00 -0800

A beautiful piece of furniture – whether it's a couch, a dining suite, a bookcase or a kitchenette – is an investment and like any investment, you want to make sure it's a good one. We've touched on the design trends for 2011 in recent blogs – everything from incorporating retro pieces and personalising your space to ‘emotional austerity’ and moving to lighter colours. But there's one really important factor to keep in mind when you're keeping up-to-date with the latest styles, fads and trends. In some senses it's the holy grail of interior decorating: Lasting style.

Bang for your buck

It's about getting “bang for your buck” and at a time when many of us are still recovering from the Global Financial Crisis, that's more important than ever. The overseas style gurus reckon the longevity and sustainability of our furniture and design choices are key. They recommend spending a little bit more up front with the intention of holding onto a piece for longer – possibly for life. The idea is that once you have these major pieces in place, then you decorate around them (with pictures, paint jobs and accoutrement) according to whatever is the trend at the time.

Getting choosey

But how to find that timeless classic? Personal style is just that, personal style, and none of us want “cookie-cutter” show home-style living rooms. Whatever the aesthetic of your home, our design consultancy at EMPIRE will be able to provide you with advice and direction. Hey, it's what we do all day, every day! But generally speaking, longevity comes down to quality workmanship, so when you're selecting your pieces, look for something durable and solid with simple elegance. We think you can't go wrong with a piece from the Vintage Art Signature Range if you want a classic look for your home or office.

What qualities do you look for when choosing a piece of furniture you want to last?

Design Trend: Retro is the future

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:00:00 -0800

Everything old really is new again! A quick look in a glossy mag' will tell you retro is the way to go. It doesn't matter if you love the 30s, 40s wartime chic, 50s kitsch, 60s flower power, the psychedelic 70s or an 80s power-suit and big hair - in 2011 you can incorporate classic pieces from any era into your wardrobe and be "on trend". In fact, many trendy London boutiques even have a genuine retro section. Retro is everywhere, so why not include a little retro in your home, too?

Be bold, break the rules

When you go retro, you've got the chance to be really bold. Clashing colours like brown, orange and green or even brightly coloured floral or geometric wallpapered feature walls make a big statement bringing the theme of your room to life. For some tips on how to do this, and get it right, check out how the experts in Europe are achieving this look.

A theme, not a theme park

The important thing is to mix and match. Unless you're really passionate about a particular era or aesthetic, it's best to choose a few pieces of furniture to complement the style you love. Bring it to together with period knick-knacks, vases, pictures, cushions and rugs. If it’s the swinging 60s you';re into, you don't need to go fossicking through second-hand stores for suitable pieces of furniture (and then go to the expense of having them restored). Take a look at EMPIRE'S Signature Marilyn range. It's stripped-back, simple elegance – 60's inspired with more than a hint of Scandinavian style.

Which retro era do you love and how have you included it in your home?

Design Trend: Don't Worry, Be Happy

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:00:00 -0800

With many of the world's developed economies still in the grips of the Global Financial Crisis, perhaps it's not surprising those-in-the-know have nominated what they call "emotional austerity" as one of 2011's major interior design themes. But don't worry; it's not as gloomy as it sounds! It's all about reassessing what it is that you need in your life, and in your home, to make you happy.

Keeping it real

With the television bringing so much doom-and-gloom into our living rooms every night, many people are looking for designs that create a feeling of "home". It';s that nesting instinct and it has people searching for simple, bold and angular pieces of furniture that combine the old and the new.

The idea is to combine form and functionality – push the boundaries a little between art and furniture – and natural materials, like wood and wool are really popular in helping achieve this.

There is a stunning rustic-look iron side table in our Raj collection, just perfect if you're trying to create this look because it’s both simple and angular. The rust tones give it a warm and natural look yet it is still a very modern design.

Colour me pink!

Creating this look means using lots of natural, neutral colours like greys and blacks but don’t forget to add a dash of colour to brighten the room! The colour for the season is still very much honeysuckle pink but other vibrant tones like orange and yellow can work just as well. Pick a colour that suits your personality and style – perhaps inspired by a favourite vase or chosen from the colour palette of a prominently placed painting.

How have you pushed the boundaries between art and furniture in your home?

Love is in the Air

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:00:00 -0800

Have you got your Valentine’s Day sorted? No matter how you feel – adore it or hate it – someone in your life will likely appreciate a small token of your affection on the day observed by lovers. Instead of fighting the queues for chocolate or overpriced flowers, EMPIRE has a few ideas to impress your lovelies.

Love letters

Consider putting a few kind words on paper using something from the Telegram collection. An Australian company focused on simplicity and elegance in stationary supplies, you can find the products at our Highgate store.

Dim the lights

Nothing says romance like candlelight. We’ve got three beautiful ranges to choose from, each with their own personality. We stock ester & erik, Ecoya Candles, and iitalia offering the best quality and stylish designs.

Pampering packages

A gift certificate from our EMPIRE Retreat and Spa is the perfect way to relax and inject romance at the same time. The best thing about a break at EMPIRE Retreat? – you get to enjoy it too.

Luxurious robes and wraps

Nothing feels better than wrapping soft cotton and wool against your skin. We recommend Missoni robes and towels for stylish comfort. Keeping an eye on cooler weather, a Bemboka throw or blanket also makes for a thoughtful and welcome gift.

What’s the most romantic gift you ever received?

Design Trend - Make your Mark

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 10:00:00 -0800

If home really is where the heart is, then you don't want your home to resemble the showroom floor. It's one thing to love and appreciate excellent design but a comfortable and welcoming room needs some personality, too.

It's all about showing your individuality - making your own mark on a space. Forget about looking like everyone else and add some of your favourite, personal pieces to give any room a more eclectic and individual feel.

Keep it eclectic

To add some old-world warmth and a little family history to a room, while still retaining a modern feel, mix-and-match newer pieces with Grandma's old radiogram or antique clock.

Move away from the "straight from the catalogue" look by adding individual pieces of furniture sourced from second-hand stores or rescued from garage sales - or by including statement pieces like a chair from our Vintage Art range which contrast the sleek lines of modern décor.

Give it some soul

Put a little heart into a room and tell visitors to your home something about who you are and not just where you shop. Personalise a space with family photographs, collectibles and mementos scoured from markets and souvenir stalls on treasured holidays. Choose art for your walls that mean something to you instead of mass-produced prints. Frame your kid's projects or invest in a piece from a local art exhibition.

A little quirk never hurt

Perhaps the biggest surprise for 2011 is the move towards the quirky. "Reimagined" objects or strange one-off creations become a talking point with visitors. A few years ago it was old vinyl records turned into fruit bowls in the middle of the kitchen table. Today a world of fun and quirky centrepieces await anyone willing to get lost browsing the Etsy website. From unusual ceramic vases to one-of-a-kind soft furnishings, websites like this can help you add your personal stamp to a room.

Let us help

Don’t forget to drop by EMPIRE. We specialise in classic design with an assortment of eclectic pieces able to perfectly complement your own personal look.

How have you put your own stamp on your home or office?

Design Trend - Moving to Light

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 13:00:00 -0800

After years of dark woods and dramatic colours, expect to see a lot more light in 2011. As a new decade dawns and the GFC abates, more and more people begin to explore how they can rejuvenate the spaces they inhabit.

White Walls

An easy way to stay on top of design trends is with interior paint. Kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms all adopt a fresh, open feel with light colours on the walls. White, off-white and ivory paint as the primary colour in your room give you limitless possibilities for accent pieces and accessories. Use honeysuckle or other warm colours; you can easily change them when the mood suits you. Check out the Vicente Wolf blog for terrific design ideas using white walls.

Let the Sun Shine In

The best way to brighten a room is with natural light. If you're short on windows – and let’s face it, many Perth homes were purposely designed to block the hot Western Australia sun, you can create extra light with a few well-placed mirrors. Empire has a huge range in stock for rooms of every size.

White Wash

Another way to lift the mood of a room is with light woods. Cabinet doors, floors and even key pieces of furniture all work to infuse a bright glow. A customised whitewash finish is available on all our tables creating a perfect complement to a radiant space.

Light, bright and white are major trends for 2011. Visit our website or stop into one of our stores for ideas on how you can incorporate a sunlit atmosphere in your home or office.

Trends for 2011 Series

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:30:00 -0800

Pantone's Colour of the Year announcement inspired us to reflect on what we expect to see at World of Empire in the coming year. We're dedicating our next few posts to EMPIRE Trends for 2011.

Design Trend – Practical

We're hearing a lot of chatter about practical furnishings coming from countries bashed by the GFC. Given the strength of the Australian economy – and the boom we're experiencing in Western Australia – we didn't think “practical” would make it here. But you know what? That changed a couple weeks ago.

Floods and Fires

We've been fortunate in the immediate Perth metropolitan area. For the first month of 2011 all we've had to contend with is a couple days of mild rain in what is normally a blistering month. We're acutely aware of the devastating floods and bushfires ravaging large parts of our country. Little escapes from either extreme; thousands of Australians are faced with rebuilding and refurnishing their homes. What better time to take a practical approach?

Timeless Design

One thing we truly believe is good design stands the test of time. A classic piece from our Marilyn range provides a practical sense of timelessness. Another way to achieve a practical mood in your house is with durable construction. Our Industrial Iron furniture takes a beating while still adhering to classic design principles.

Whatever the reason, EMPIRE believes keeping a practical eye on furnishings is going to be a strong trend in 2011. Visit our website or stop into one of our stores for ideas on how you can incorporate the practical trend into your space.

Goodbye Turquoise, Hello Honeysuckle

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:30:00 -0800

Have you ever wondered who decides what colours become popular? The fashion industry often takes credit for it. Who wouldn't remember Meryl Streep expertly ripping apart Anne Hathaway's wardrobe in The Devil Wears Prada? The real authority on colour is Pantone, globally recognised by the design industries as a provider of professional colour standards.

Every year Pantone select a colour of the year. The reason we saw so much turquoise last year was because Pantone named it their pick for 2010. The Colour of the Year for 2011 is the vibrant, energetic Honeysuckle, specifically, PANTONE 18-2120 Honeysuckle.

While it may seem like an arbitrary selection, the colour often represents a bigger issue in society. Turquoise was meant to give GFC-weary consumers respite from their troubles by injecting a little verve and vigour into their colour palette. Honeysuckle, a vibrant reddish pink, is thought to be encouraging and uplifting. It's meant to instil confidence and build the courageous spirit required to meet the exhausting challenges of everyday life.

If that sounds like marketing spin, be assured Honeysuckle is already invading the manufacturing industries. Wedding apparel, paint and even Visa cards are already available in the captivating shade. Expect to see it everywhere from the catwalk, home furnishings and even industrial design. In other words, honeysuckle is the new black.

If you'd like to put a contemporary spin on your home or office, don't feel like you need to drench your walls in honeysuckle. Using a few well-selected accent pieces are the best way to introduce the colour without investing a fortune. Cushions, towels, rugs and candles are all good ways to introduce a modern twist you can easily change when next year's colour is announced.

If you'd like more information on how to incorporate colour into your living space, EMPIRE supplies plenty of accessories for the home. We also offer design consultancy services. Don't hesitate to Contact us; we'd love to help.

How do you feel about Honeysuckle?

All tied up in string

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 12:00:00 -0800

These are a few of our favourite things

With the final push of the Christmas shopping season upon us, we wanted to take a few minutes and share some of our favourite things with you. We design and source much of what appears in our stores but we also have some magnificent suppliers. Read on to get an idea of what we mean.

If you're following us on our Facebook page, you’ll see we’re running a 12 Days of Christmas feature with special offerings for our fans. Hop over to find out about some great deals for in-store shopping.

We can’t promise brown paper packages tied up in string, but you won’t be disappointed to give or receive some of these special products. Like children, we love them all equally.

Towels, Robes and Throws

Missoni Homewares

The most luxurious robes and towels imaginable, Missoni delivers on both style and comfort. It's why we like them. You will too.

Bemboka

Bemboka throws and blankets are made from the finest Australian Merino wool and spun in New Zealand. The end result is pure comfort and luxury in the lightest, warmest wool imaginable.

Candles

ester & erik

Danish style is infused in every one of the striking candles from ester & erik. We like how they've preserved the proud tradition of candle making and given it a modern twist.

Ecoya Candles

Located in Botany Bay, the Ecoya candle range uses completely organic materials to produce their gorgeous candles, right down to the wick.

Dishes, Glassware and Porcelain

Mud Australia

Designed and handmade in Australia, Mud create the most beautiful porcelain collection. It's designed for everyday use but perfect for special occasions, too.

Iittala

We love Iittala's rage against 'throw-away-ism'. Their philosophy is to create lasting products using fantastic design techniques. Their range of dishes and glassware is a fantastic testament to their success.

Hairbrushes and Accessories

Acca Kappa

Established in 1869, Acca Kappa soon became a preferred supplier to the English royal family for quality hairbrushes and accessories. The family owned Italian company is synonymous with quality and luxury which is just one of the reasons we like them.

Stationary

Design-driven stationary for people who appreciate simplicity and quality, Telegram source their collection from every part of the world. The Australian company share our view on the importance of design and style while keeping an eye on sustainable business practices.

Spa Products

Sodashi

When the North Fremantle Sodashi scooped the Spa PALMES Best Spa Cosmetics Award at the International Luxury Spa Summit 2010 in France, we weren't surprised. We use their products every day at Empire Spa.

Eminence Organics

Not to be outdone, the extremely luxurious Eminence Organics Skin Care from Hungary was crowned with the Professional's Choice Awards' by American Spa magazine for the 4th year in a row. No wonder our Empire Spa customers rave about the products.

At World of Empire we're firm believers life should be filled with affordable luxuries. Regardless of who you're buying for this Christmas, we're sure to have something to suit every taste and budget. If you're struggling for an idea, stop in and let us help you or give us a call. While you're at it, don't forget to treat yourself this year, too.

What is your favourite present to give or receive?

In Living Colour

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 08:30:00 -0800

One of the first articles we posted on our Facebook page was this piece out of the Wall Street Journal dealing with the deceptively difficult colour of white. The goal is to create intimate and comfortable rooms without taking on a clinical feel. The article has a terrific interactive graphic helping readers to see how different components of the room help achieve the desired result.

Working with Colour

White isn't the only tricky colour. Selecting the right colour combinations, finding the right hue and recognising which colours complement each other can be stumbling blocks to designing a room or office you love. The fantastic website Worqx contains terrific information on the intricacies of colour and how to use it effectively. It’s an informative site and well worth the visit.

EMPIRE Design

If you really want to explore how to use colour to enhance your home or office space, book some time with our design consultant, Rob Marshall. Rob provides the creative vision for each of our stores. He's a master at creating a space you don’t want to leave. He does plenty of in-store consultations and has great ideas on how to make the best use of our signature range of furniture. Make sure you tap his brain when you see him in one of our stores.

Whether you decide to make a big splash with colour or neutralise your palette to focus on your furnishings, familiarise yourself with colour basics. And don't forget, EMPIRE is here to help if you get stuck.

What is your favourite colour for decorating?

Designer Furniture with Sustainable Focus

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 12:00:00 -0800

We spend a lot of time poking into different corners of the world looking for special pieces. Everything must support the EMPIRE philosophy of great design combined with comfortable stylishness. We really like the concept of affordable luxury and are always on the lookout for new products and good examples.

A recent news article out of Canada resonated with us. A lighting shop in Montreal is promoting sustainable design for the home setting. The idea is a strong belief that cutting-edge design can support art focused on recycling and sustainability. The owner of the store, Sarah Richardson, has a long history of working on sustainable trade issues and used that expertise to source some incredible light fixtures from all over the world.

She's a woman after our own heart. EMPIRE started back in the '70s after Perry and Jill Coleman came home from overseas travels stimulated by what they'd seen in other parts of the world. That early experience continues to influence our product lines to this day. Both our Boatwood range and our Organic (Driftwood) range possess a strong ethic of sustainability. In sharp contrast with each other, our Boatwood furniture is made from recycled wooden boats. The Driftwood products are constructed from natural wood pieces rescued from the surf. The common element is that both lines of furniture employ the best design around.

If you'd like to know more about our sustainable furniture, have a look through our website or stop into one of our stores. You might be surprised just how gorgeous recycled wood will look in your home or office.

EMPIRE Dunsborough - Open for Business

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 07:00:00 -0700

It feels a little bit like old home week. Way back in the '70s, Perry and Jill Coleman had a vision to open a store with a lot of “groovy” stuff. It was the beginning of the EMPIRE philosophy – fresh, stylish, and centred on great design. That first shop, called PEDLARS, was located in Dunsborough.

Now we've come full circle with the opening of EMPIRE Dunsborough. Not far from EMIPRE Retreat, we decided it was time to get back “Down South” with our range of furnishings and home wares. You can't spend all your time visiting wineries, eating chocolate and indulging in one great meal after another. Who are we kidding? Of course you can, but it’s always nice to have a little rest between courses, right?

When you do take a break, stop in and have a look around. Our design consultant, Rob Marshall, has done a fantastic job putting everything in its place. As with all our EMPIRE stores, you'll find the best in furniture design, all of it loaded with style and comfort. We've thrown in plenty of signature pieces and lots of one-of-kind items to keep it interesting. We'll be getting regular shipments managed through our Fremantle store where all EMPIRE shipments first arrive. We will also be able to take special orders. Of course, we can organise delivery.

Stop in and say hello. It might seem like we’re the new kids in town but we're really just part of the old neighbourhood gang.

Where did you get your start?