Walking in a winter wonderland isn’t exactly what comes to mind when celebrating an Australian Christmas! We’re more about slapping on the sun screen, jumping in the pool or ocean for a swim and firing up the BBQ. We’ve got a few more interesting Australian Christmas facts and figures for you to share around the BBQ these holidays. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

An Australian Christmas

For jewellery designer, Jan Logan, relaxing in her “sanctuary” – her living room – is one of life’s greatest treasures. Jan, who has lived in her Paddington terrace for over 20 years, loves the feeling of tranquillity which she gets from spending time in her favourite room. Her two-story (plus attic) home is situated on a wide, tree-lined, private and quiet cul-de-sac. While she lives alone, her “welcoming” home is often bustling with the friends, family and her eight grandchildren.

What is your favourite room in your house?

My favourite room is the living room/atrium, which opens into the courtyard at the back of the terrace.

Why is it your favourite room?

It is such a peaceful, relaxing and harmonious space. The room carries on from the kitchen area and opens into the atrium. It is contiguous and works well with the flow of the house. It is filled with beautiful artworks, books, the TV, music and my piano. It’s just lovely and relaxing.

How does your favourite room represent who you are?

I’m originally from the country, Narrabri, and I think this room reflects my background. It is a Country style home with polished wood floors. It has a very relaxed feel and is full of things I’ve collected over the years. It certainly isn’t minimal. Some of the items include blue and white porcelain from the East, two lovely wooden trunks and an old oak dining table which I originally brought up from the country. We’ll be using it on Christmas Day – I am hosting lunch for 14! The colour scheme is ivory – clean and crisp.

What do you like most about your favourite room?

I love the painting I have hung up, but the item I cannot live without is a sculpture carved by my son made from an iron bark from the country (His work can be found at www.adlogan.com).

If you could invite anyone into your favourite room, who would it be?

I’d love to invite Bob Geldof. I’ve seen him interviewed frequently and he is very articulate. I think he would be very articulate, interesting and good company.

What would you change about your favourite room?

Nothing, I love it all, it’s perfect. 

What advice would you give on how to create the perfect space?

I think it’s nice to have light and to have comfort.

IT’s that time of year again. Everyone has been counting down the weeks till Christmas and you probably haven’t had much time in between office parties and brunches and long, long liquid lunches to think about getting your decorations up in your home. It seems as if the shopping centres had their tinsel and trees up since Easter and some eager-beaver neighbours’ homes look as if a few frenzied elves used a few bottles of cheer to ‘decorate’.

But, before you pull out the old tree from the garage and blow off the layer of dust and try and salvage the old baubles, think about what mood you’d like to create. As with decorating and stying your home during the year, there are certain elements to consider. Keep in mind LESS is usually more and the key is to do everything tastefully.

Do’s

• It’s tempting to use the same old decorations you have for years. I suggest taking a walk around the shops and flicking through some magazines to get inspiration. Each year, there are certain trends that emerge; and while these are recycled it’s nice to create a different theme every year. Spend a few dollars buying some nice pieces. This will also help you differentiate the years when looking at old photographs! One tip is to chose a colour scheme – such as gold and red, or purple and silver – and stick to these few colours whether on your tree, dinner settings/centre pieces and outdoor displays.

• The Christmas tree should be the focal point, but be mindful of size. Take into consideration the size of your room, where in the house you’ll be setting it up don’t forget proximity to power points!

• Tinsel comes in so many colours, widths, lengths and quality. Draping some over a curtain rail is a quick and effective place to hang your Christmas cards. Just remember, the cheap and nasty stuff sheds faster than a Persian cat.

• Nothing says festive more than lights – but please don’t go overboard! It can overtake the whole ambiance.

• Wreaths made from natural products are a lovely way to bring in a bit of the outdoors. Look around your backyard and get creative. Herbs and vines can easily be twisted together for a fragrant, elegant and cheap decoration.

There is nothing worse when you’re trying to open a can and you can’t find the can opener. Below is a list of the ultimate kitchen utensils to keep you sane: