Many don’t realise that the skin’s protective barrier is slightly acidic, and products with too much acid or alkaline can strip our skin’s natural oils, increasing the likelihood of inflammation and irritation.
Products that have the same pH value as healthy skin are far more effective in keeping it balanced and hydrated, which is where Ecostore’s efficacious range comes in. Designed with a pH of 5.0, and infused with locally-grown harakeke extract, these natural, eco-conscious products nurture the skin from the outside in.
Sydney has long been recognised as one of the culinary capitals of the world, and for good reason. With an ever-growing list of world-class dining destinations, we round up the best new openings to explore in the Harbour City.
The International
Martin Place
The hospitality legends behind Shell House and the Dolphin are redefining Sydney’s dining scene with an ambitious new city precinct, The International. The multi-level masterpiece is housed in the iconic Harry Seidler-designed MLC Centre.
The lively locale promises three distinct experiences, all under one roof: The Wine Bar, a haven for small plates with an extensive wine list. The Grill, a grand homage to wood-fired cuisine and helmed by the celebrated Joel Bickford. And the icing on the cake, the Panorama Bar — an impressive and expansive rooftop with sweeping city views, perfect for all-day bites right through to late-night revelry.
Legendary chef Neil Perry has furthered his culinary dominance of Double Bay with Song Bird, an impressive, multi-level ode to classic Cantonese cuisine. Expect an expansive menu of over 70 dishes showcasing the finest Australian produce. Dive into plump scallop spring rolls bathed in sweet black vinegar sauce, or savour the iconic Peking duck with all of the trimmings.
The heritage-listed Garden House plays a starring role, expertly transformed by ACME and Caon Design Office. The space seamlessly blends the building’s original elegance with the vibrancy of Asia where marble and granite meet delicate green and gold accents, creating a rich yet minimalist haven.
A sultry new Latin American haven from acclaimed chef Alejandro Saravia, whose pedigree includes time at Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck, Morena, meaning brunette in Spanish, embodies Saravia’s vision of a welcoming, chic dining destination.
Housed in the historic GPO building, Morena transcends borders. Expect a symphony of flavours celebrating Peru — Saravia’s homeland, alongside vibrant dishes representing the entire region. From Mexico’s aguachile to prawn-centric Colombian versions, each country offers a unique twist.
But Morena is more than just food. The 220-seater boasts a Milanese vibe — think double-height ceilings, polished wood, and arched windows showcasing the city’s pulse. The energy is infectious, and perfect for lingering over drinks or a celebratory meal.
Back in 2016, Sydney restaurant Saint Peter redefined sustainability and revolutionised seafood. Josh Niland’s ‘scale-to-tail’ philosophy wasn’t a fad; it became a global conversation starter.
Now, after much anticipation, Saint Peter has found a stunning new home: the iconic Grand National Hotel in Paddington. The cool, concrete haven boasts distinct experiences, where you can kick back in the bar with an à la carte menu, perfect for nostalgic seafood cravings. But the heart of Saint Peter lies in the main restaurant, where you can watch the chefs orchestrate culinary magic in the open kitchen. Towering ironbark fuels the wood-fired grill, while kelp hangs like a maritime curtain. Or catch a front-row seat at the semi-circular chef’s table for a tasting adventure.
From aged John Dory livers to 41-day-old Albacore, Saint Peter continues to push boundaries. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a Sydney institution.
This new CBD hotspot playfully reimagines French cuisine with a distinctly Aussie flair. Housed in a stunning heritage building opposite the Capitol Theatre, Ennui lures you in with its French pedigree. But the menu takes a sharp turn, using classic techniques and ingredients as a springboard for something more unique.
Co-owner Samuel Woods’ Thai heritage shines through and the star of the show might just be the ‘Duck Ennui’ — a masterful fusion of Peking duck and duck à l’orange, a tasty testament to years of experimentation. Ennui is a delightful paradox of French techniques with a healthy dose of Aussie spirit, sprinkled with Thai, Japanese, and Chinese influences.
Forget the usual Tex-Mex suspects. Newtown’s newest resident, Comedor, isn’t your average taco joint. This sleek, modern spot presents a refined take on Mexican cuisine, as Chef Alejandro Huerta’s world-class expertise shines through. Techniques honed at Copenhagen’s Noma and Mexico City’s Pujol are seamlessly blended with his Mexican heritage.
Across a series of shareable plates, you’ll find a symphony of flavours and textures. Think kingfish tostadas with nduja, pineapple, and spring onion, or scallops bathed in a corn miso vinaigrette with wattleseed, Comedor is a breath of fresh air for Sydney’s Mexican scene. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a world of innovative flavours and heritage-inspired comfort.
With the long-awaited summer settling in, it’s time to start finessing our outdoor spaces to prepare them for plenty of use over the coming months. Of course, one place we always turn to in our pursuit of perfect furnishings is ECC, where the selection of outdoor accoutrements and furniture is vast and varied.
Here, in a bid to help you to curate a cosy and convivial outdoor setting, we’ve rounded up a selection of our favourite pieces from ECC to shop now for the season ahead.
From humble beginnings in small-town Australia to the giddy heights of global runway shows to taking advice from Nicole Kidman, and a starring role in Netflix’s Dynasty, Maddison Brown’s journey has been nothing short of a whirlwind. But now, the actress and model is stepping back from Hollywood’s spotlight to focus on growing her sunscreen and skincare brand, Outside Beauty & Skincare — a venture that represents her most personal challenge yet. In this next chapter, she’s prioritising fulfilment over fame, embracing change with refreshing candour.
With a lively personality and refreshing sense of self, coupled with a professionalism brought about through years of being on set, Brown brought a unique dynamism to our Summer Issue cover story, bringing to life into the stunning jewels and clothes she wore for the shoot.
Here, taking sartorial notes from the multi-hyphenate creative, we have curated a ‘shop the look’ line-up of pieces to introduce a hint of 70s glamour to your wardrobe.
HardWear Bold Graduated Link Necklace from Tiffany & Co.
As the sun lingers longer and summer settles in, we’re wholly embracing the joy of cooking and dining al fresco. From smoky aromas wafting through the garden to the convivial clink of glasses, a meal outdoors transforms an ordinary evening into something truly special. And now, the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven elevates this ritual to new heights with its innovative blend of ease, versatility, and the irresistible flavours unlocked via this clever appliance.
Reimagining an outdoor kitchen, this 8-in-1 marvel brings culinary finesse to the great outdoors, harnessing cutting-edge technology to offer a compact yet incredibly effective way to turn out expertly cooked fare. Whether you’re crafting Neapolitan-inspired pizzas with blistered crusts in three minutes flat, slow-smoking tender barbecue classics, or roasting a festive ham to perfection, this oven offers temperatures from 25°C to a searing 370°C, ensuring every dish is cooked to perfection.
Its integrated smoke box infuses authentic woodfire flavours with only half a cup of pellets, delivering that sought-after charred and caramelised taste effortlessly. With no flames to manage and a weather-resistant design, it’s as practical as it is sleek and compact. Transform any meal into a feast with brick-oven textures, smoky depth, and a touch of charred perfection — all from your own backyard, as the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven invites you to savour the season.
There’s nothing worse than the sticky feeling of makeup melting off in peak summer heat. But don’t sweat it, there are plenty of impressive products that combat exactly that, keeping your look fresh and refined — from the office to the beach and beyond.
Rose Inc Skin Enhance Luminous Tinted Serum from Mecca
As one of Australia’s most revered editorial hair stylists and co-owner and director of lauded Sydney-based hair salon Willomina, Chris Hunter is well versed in the art of using hair styling tools to achieve the most effortlessly glamorous of looks. For this issue’s cover shoot with Maddison Brown, Hunter opted for two contrasting but equally stunning looks — styled using Shark’s range of powerful and versatile hair tools. Here, he talks us through the easy recreation of Maddison’s voluminous, 70s-inspired curls, using Shark’s styling tools at home.
70s Volume
Achieve The Look
Chris Hunter, hair stylist
“As Maddison came to me with pre-washed hair, I used Eleven Australia Miracle Treatment to add moisture back into the hair and create a good foundation. I began by blowdrying using my Shark FlexStyle with the Styling Concentrator attachment, combined with the FlexStyle Auto-Wrap Curler attachment. Once each section was blown out, I clipped each section back up to set before moving onto the next. This clipping technique is a fantastic way to create longevity for curls. Once Maddison’s makeup was complete, I removed the clips and brushed out using a wide tooth comb to add extra volume.”
70s Volume
Get The Look
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System from Shark
ELEVEN Australia Miracle Hair Treatment from Adore Beauty
In the year since its grand opening, Ayrburn has flourished, transforming into a vibrant destination where expansive grounds, a lively rota of events, and an array of culinary offerings invite those visiting to linger longer, indulging in the idyllic precinct’s many delights.
A map of Ayrburn’s expansive grounds playing host to their array of culinary offerings
This summer, adding to its ever-present allure, Ayrburn is opening the doors to The Bakehouse and R.M Prime Produce, elevating the precinct to new heights. More than just a café or bakery, The Bakehouse is an all-encompassing culinary retreat where visitors can begin their day with artisanal pastries and coffee, or settle into the evening with crafted cocktails and seasonally inspired dishes, each infused with the signature Ayrburn touch. R.M Prime Produce presents a curated selection of the region’s finest, from expertly crafted deli meats to dairy, fresh flowers, baked goods, and Ayrburn’s own wines. Both new openings give diners the option to take their fare al fresco — to enjoy on the sprawling communal lawns.
The appeal of Ayrburn stretches beyond its culinary offerings alone, with the precinct capturing the magic of summer through a continuous line-up of immersive experiences. With the gardens in full bloom and events ranging from European-inspired Christmas Markets to convivial jazz evenings, each moment here feels like an invitation to savour the season. Families can unwind as little ones revel in specially curated activities, while couples and friends can toast to a new year on the horizon.
From dawn till dusk (and beyond), Ayrburn beckons as the ultimate summer destination — where hospitality and heritage meet, and days are spent immersed in the picture-perfect surrounds of what has fast become spectacular world-class destination.
Ayrburn’s bistro-style eatery that promises day-to-night fare for all to enjoy. Here, the philosophy is simple: quality reigns supreme, which means you’ll find delicious, uncomplicated food with a seasonal twist that is utterly enjoyable, served in a classically elegant setting. Find a cosy nook indoors or revel in the spectacular natural environment and settle in for the day in a sunny spot near the stream, or under the shade of the weeping willow trees.
When the sun sets and the mood elevates, The Barrel Room is the perfect spot for exploration. Combining an elegant bar, restaurant, wine tastings, and private event space into one intriguing destination, The Barrel room is Ayrburn’s dedicated home of revelry. With the dining room nestled among 56 ageing wine barrels and the bar’s grand piano, The Barrel Room sets the scene for both intimate seated soirées with a sophisticated ambiance or an evening of fun and indulgence.
Nestled in a beautifully restored farm building with a distinctive sloped roof, this lively venue offers a unique dining experience centred around shared plates. With a specialty focus on wine, there’s plenty of palate-pleasing surprises to leave you thirsty for more. Whether you’re perched outside overlooking the resplendent gardens, or tucked into a quiet corner inside, every inch of The Manure Room invites you to relax, immerse yourself in the world of Ayrburn wine, and savour the moment.
Ayrburn’s new store — R.M Prime Produce, which boasts a world-class butcher, and offers dairy produce, freshly baked bread, deli meats, fresh cut flowers, baked goods, and Ayrburn wine, was conceived with casual, summertime dining in mind. Here, you’ll find all that you need for meals al fresco — whether you’re stocking up for a soirée at home, or packing a hamper to enjoy whilst lounging on a deckchair in The Dell, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for, and more.
At the newest jewel in Ayrburn’s crown, breakfast slips seamlessly into lunch and stretches luxuriously into the evening. Perfect for a quick bite on the go or a lingering afternoon with friends, it’s an all-day affair featuring an elevated take on cabinet classics and casual fare, from wood-fired pizzas to fresh pasta and more. As much a spot for a quick coffee as it is a venue for milestone celebrations, The Bakehouse offers it all with Ayrburn’s signature considered design and exceptional hospitality. Grab your weekend essentials, treat yourself to a crisp glass of wine, or settle in at the long, rustic table overlooking The Dell for a convivial evening with friends. Whether it’s a quick dash or a long stay, The Bakehouse is sure to deliver.
Once the original homestead of the farm’s founding owner, William Paterson, The Burr Bar has been transformed into an intimate, luxurious watering hole. Capture the last of the day’s sun on the upper terrace, and take in the spectacular mountain surrounds. Order one of the expertly-crafted libations (the cocktails here are amongst the best we’ve had) paired with a selection of delicious snacks, and you have all the makings of an utterly idyllic summer evening.
Catering exceptionally well to littles and their charges alike, at Ayrburn there is all manner of things to keep both entertained. The Dairy is a destination filled with whimsical sweet treats that promise to hit the spot every time. Grab an icecream and make for The Dell — Ayrburn’s social lawn and a more than perfect spot to spend an afternoon.
It’s hard to deny that Auckland’s unique proximity to the ocean fuels our passion and pride. Celebrate the season, and the city, by getting (at the very least) your feet wet this summer.
There’s something about summer in Auckland — a season when the city’s unique connection to the sea is celebrated to its fullest, and every coastline, cove, and harbour comes alive. In Tāmaki Makaurau, we’re never far from the water; it’s woven into our daily rhythm, our history, and our identity. This season, Aucklanders are invited to embrace the warmth right here in the city, as the calendar fills with epic events that showcase the incredible interplay of urban and ocean life.
At the heart of this summer’s festivities is the Moana Auckland Festival presented by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, returning for its second year and promising a six-week-long celebration of the city’s oceanic treasures, beginning on Auckland Anniversary Day and running until March 9th. A tribute to Auckland’s love affair with the sea, this festival is a jewel of the season, bringing together over 30 on- and off-water events that honour the vibrant marine heritage and diverse coastal culture we share.
“Against the stunning backdrop of the Hauraki Gulf, festival-goers can indulge in fresh kaimoana, marvel at luxury superyachts, and gain insight into Māori traditions.”
From thrilling yacht races to family-friendly ocean days to opportunities to learn about our taonga (treasures) through educational workshops and activities with a focus on ocean conservation and sustainability, Moana Auckland is an immersive experience that calls to all Aucklanders. Against the stunning backdrop of the Hauraki Gulf, festival-goers can indulge in fresh kaimoana, marvel at luxury superyachts, and gain insights into Māori traditions and the importance of protecting our precious marine environments. Sustainability takes centre stage, with Moana Auckland partnering with eco-conscious organisations to reduce waste, promote ocean conservation, and spark community conversations.
As the ocean’s tides shape our shores, Moana Auckland reminds us of the profound role the sea plays in our lives. So, dive into the events, savour the kaimoana, and celebrate the essence of Auckland — where the city meets the sea in a spectacular collision of culture, tradition, and pure summer delight.
Celebrating 30 years of design excellence, Powersurge is marking the milestone with the launch of the limited edition Colour Fall Table Collection — a testament to their enduring legacy of innovative metal craftsmanship.
Since its inception in 1994, Powersurge has established itself as one of New Zealand’s premier design destinations, blending engineering and art to create bespoke metal works that find a place in the country’s finest commercial spaces and homes.
Todd Stevenson and Andrea Harradine of Powersurge
Under the visionary leadership of Todd Stevenson and Andrea Harradine, Powersurge began as a small Grey Lynn workshop and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the interiors of some of the country’s leading brands, and design-led homes across the country.
Eventually, the brand expanded into The Home Collection — offering a concise edit of pieces that enliven Powersurge’s design ethos — minimalist yet sophisticated, bold yet timeless. “The Home Collection is the distillation of 30 years of dedicated craftsmanship, the refinement of a career in bespoke creation,” says Harradine.
“Brass is a fascinating material. Dynamic, robust, and organic, it exemplifies the timeless luxury that Powersurge has become synonymous with”
The genesis of the collection was the pair’s immersion in Italian industrial design, and was inspired, in large part, by a career-defining visit to the Salone Mobile in Milan. “The decision to work with brass actually emerged during a formative trip to Milan. The incredible history of Italian industrial design was all around us, and at the heart of that heritage was brass, a material that exuded beauty and luxury,” Harradine says, adding “Brass is a fascinating material. Dynamic, robust, and organic, it exemplifies the timeless luxury that Powersurge has become synonymous with.”
The Home Collection by Powersurge
Known for deftly combining form and function, Powersurge’s work is as durable as it is visually impactful. The Colour Fall Table Collection — conceived to mark three incredible decades in business — celebrates both artistry and craftsmanship, embodying the minimalist aesthetic and timeless elegance that has long- defined Powersurge. The Fall Side Table and Fall Coffee Table embody minimalist design with angular structures and clean lines that highlight the beauty of negative space — the Side Table offering a chic, versatile surface for daily use; the Coffee Table providing practicality with a sturdy, elegant form. Both pieces seamlessly blend industrial durability with timeless style — perfect for modern living.
As Powersurge celebrates three decades in the industry, their work continues to push the boundaries of metalwork, collaborating with top architects and interior designers to create enduring, design-forward pieces. Their latest collection is a fitting tribute to a legacy built on craftsmanship, collaboration, and creativity.
Powersurge x Monmouth Glass Studio’s one-of-a-kind fruit bowl
To mark their 30th anniversary, Powersurge have created a beautiful, bespoke homage to their original Classico Fruit Bowl made in collaboration with Monmouth Glass Studio. As part of the brand’s Christmas giveaway — which offers the chance to win over $30,000 worth of Powersurge, the lucky recipient will also receive this one-of-a-kind fruit bowl (valued at $5,000) — a life-long keepsake. Shop Powersurge’s 20% Best Sellers Sale now, and you’ll automatically go in to the draw to win.
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