Kona Kahlua: A Mid-Century Inspired Haven

When it comes to creating a memorable dining experience at home, the setting is just as important as the meal itself. Make your loved one feel extra special this Valentine's Day with a thoughtfully styled space that is both relaxed and refined, allowing your guest to feel at ease while enjoying some elevated touches. Basix Linen Runner in Fonda, Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Rosa Embracing pure, textural linen in rich, romantic hues is a simple way to create a sense of occasion, starting with our generously sized Flocca Linen Tablecloth as a versatile backdrop for layering. With a sumptuous drape that lends understated drama, our pure linen tablecloth is available in an extensive palette that ranges from soft neutrals to rich, decedent hues, all mixing and matching effortlessly with our pure linen runners and napkins. Basix Linen Runner in Moro, Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Rosa  Lighting can instantly transform the mood of a room, and there is no better way to achieve a warm and intimate setting than with candlelight. A few tealight candles provide a soft and subtle glow, while taper candles and tall candlesticks imbue a hint of formality. Flowers make the perfect finishing touch ­­– add a pop of vibrant colour with a bright posy, or opt for the understated elegance of a single stem in a tall vase.  Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Rosa, Basix Linen Napkin in Rosa, Basix Stripe Napkin in Ayrton/Russo  Napkins are a post-dinner necessity, and our Basix Linen Napkins offer the ideal balance of style and practicality. Pre-washed and softened for a relaxed, textural look and feel, a set of handcrafted napkins makes a luxuriously functional addition. They can also introduce beautiful accents of colour, with delicious berry, caramel and toffee hues lending sumptuous tonal layers to your table setting. Chocolate Buttermilk CakeThis delectable recipe by Tilly Pamment is the perfect dessert to impress your special guest.  MAKES ONE 18 CM (7 INCH) LAYER CAKE  225 g (8 oz) plain (all-purpose) flour 50 g (1¾ oz) Dutch (unsweetened) cocoa powder 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) ¼ teaspoon salt 275 g (9¾ oz) caster (superfine) sugar 2 eggs 125 g (4½ oz) unsalted butter, melted and cooled 250 ml (9 fl oz) buttermilk, at room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste   CHOCOLATE BUTTERCREAM 125 g (4½ oz) unsalted butter, softened 20 g (¾ oz) Dutch (unsweetened) cocoa powder 240 g (8½ oz) icing (confectioners’) sugar 40 ml (1½ fl oz) buttermilk sprinkles or chocolate buttons (melts) to decorate, optional   Preheat the oven to 160°C (315°F) fan-forced. Grease three 18 cm (7 inch) round cake tins well with butter and line the bases with baking paper. Sift the flour, cocoa and bicarbonate of soda into the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Add the salt and caster sugar and stir to combine.  In a separate bowl, place the eggs, melted butter, buttermilk and vanilla and whisk to combine. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix on low until smooth. Scrape down the side of the bowl, then beat again, this time on medium speed, for 1 minute or so, until the mixture is smooth, fluffy and lighter in colour. Divide the batter evenly between the tins and bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cakes have risen and are cooked through. Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 5 minutes or so, before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely. When the cakes are cool, make the chocolate buttercream by combining the butter, cocoa and half the icing sugar in the stand mixer bowl with a paddle attachment.  Mix until smooth before adding the buttermilk and remaining icing sugar. Beat well, scraping down the side of the bowl a few times, until the buttercream is light and fluffy. To assemble, place one of the cakes on a serving plate and spread with one-third of the buttercream. Top with the second cake and spread with another third of the buttercream. Sandwich the final cake on top and swirl on the remaining icing. Decorate with sprinkles or chocolate buttons if you like; otherwise, slice and eat as is.  Any left-over cake will keep happily in an airtight container in a cool place for a day or two.  Images and text from The Plain Cake Appreciation Society by Tilly Pamment, photography by Tilly Pamment. Murdoch Books RRP $39.99. 

From a playfully reimagined barn in the Byron Bay hinterland to a Mediterranean-inspired haven overlooking Sydney's Pittwater, these dreamy design projects share a common thread – a thoughtful layering of rich textures and earthy hues that invite relaxed living and offer the feeling of a luxurious, year-round vacation. Interiors by Jase Sullivan |  Photography Michael Lean Photography |  Featuring: Flocca linen Pillowcases in Sable and Maiz  A warm and playful retreat in the Byron Bay hinterland   This hinterland retreat by Jase Sullivan couples a whimsical palette with global influences to reflects both its well-travelled owners and the tones of the surrounding landscape, including the tree-lined backdrop and the blue sea in the distance, lending a cosy touch to the home’s generous, sophisticated spaces.  Fingal Beach House I Interior: @deannepenberthyjolly I Photography: @evegwilson I Published: @insideoutmag I Featured: Flocca Linen Euro Pillowcase in Brun, Flocca Linen Body Cushion in Sable, Crush Linen Throw in Tempest, Flocca Linen Duvet in Carmel A coastal cottage-turned-contemporary family home on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula Nestled within the lush, undulating countryside and featuring a stunning, olive tree-lined driveway, this peaceful retreat by Deanne Penberthy Jolly Interior Design features a natural, understated palette and textural elements that blend beautifully into its rural setting.  LA PALMA 2022​​​​​​​​ @ysg.studio photography @prueruscoe : Featuring, Flocca Linen Duvet in Rosa. A sunny, Mediterranean-inspired haven on the Sydney waterfront   Overlooking Pittwater on Sydney’s northern beaches, and with a sweeping vista that extends to the Central Coast, this free-spirited abode by YSG Studio draws inspiration from chic resorts and faraway destinations with a warm, layered palette and timeless accents.  Basix Linen Quilt in Sable, Flocca Long Pillowcase in Sable, Flocca Linen Flat Sheet in Brun A striking, 160-year-old barn in the Victorian High Country Imported from Indiana, USA, this luxuriously restored home exudes rustic grandeur and elegant classical features, pairing history and craftsmanship with a fresh, contemporary sensibility to create a space that is both elegant and welcoming.  

Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Rosa, Basix Linen Runner in Moro, Basix Stripe Napkin in Rosa/Floss While we might all spend the festive season a little differently, there are a few hallmarks of an Antipodean Christmas that are widely enjoyed in all corners of the country. Namely, relaxed outdoor gatherings, with a warm climate and stunning natural landscapes leaving us spoilt for choice when it comes to alfresco entertaining. Whether it's lunch on the deck, a picnic in the park or a barbeque in the backyard, most of our holiday activities take place outside.  Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Petra, Basix Linen Napkin in Floss, Basix Stripe Napkin in Ayrton/Russo With family and friends spread far and wide, our summers also typically involve travel, with loved ones loading up their car or suitcase before setting off on planes, trains and automobiles to reach their destination, congregating along the coast, in the city, and everywhere in between. Laidback, sun-drenched catch-ups with loved ones, taking a leisurely nap in the heat of the day, and dining under the stars to a chorus of cicadas are all synonymous with an Australian Christmas.  When it comes to the menu, fresh is best, with thrown-together salads of mango, avocado and prawns offering a vibrant display, while diverse cultural influences see salsas, kebabs and pasta all making an appearance in our festive spread. Simplicity is the name of the game, and an abundance of tasty, seasonal produce means there is little to do but add a few thoughtful accents – a floral garnish, a dash of olive oil or a sprinkle of salt – to elevate each festive dish. Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Petra, Basix Linen Napkin in Azzura and Bateau. Basix Stripe Linen Napkin in Ayrton/Nox  Much like the food, decorations are best when informed by nature, with hues reflecting coastal blues, sandy shores, silvery gums and soft pinks of heady summer blooms. Materials are natural and textural, with rattan and sisal standing up to the elements, while handcrafted table linen and a sprig of foliage in a vase bring a joyful sense of occasion. In the evenings, candlelight and a glass of bubbly add a luxurious touch as the sun goes down.  Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Rosa, Basix Linen Napkin in Rosa, Basix Linen Runner in Moro  It is easy to get wrapped up in the busyness of the festive season, however it is these simple pleasures that encourage us to slow down and appreciate the small moments and subtle details that encapsulate everything we love about an Australian Christmas.  A crunchy, fluffy pavlova is synonymous with an Aussie Christmas, and while you can use whatever seasonal fruits you have on hand, we love this version from Gather & Feast, which resembles summer on a plate. Mango, Passionfruit and Lime Pavlova with Toasted Coconut Mega Berry Pavlova from Gather and Feast 

Whether it's something special to put under the Christmas tree or a wedding present for a loved one, now is the time to plan for a summer of celebrations. Before the silly season arrives, explore our most coveted pieces – from little luxuries to grand gestures – that will inspire joyful memories for years to come. Assorted Basix Linen Napkin  Effortless everyday gifting If you’ve been thinking about what to gift your friends, colleagues, and unexpected guests, our elevated essentials are perfect for when you need a crowd-pleasing gift on hand.   Luxurious gift ideas that are sure to impress Basix Linen Quilt in Ayrton Whether for someone special or to treat yourself, these show-stopping gestures are guaranteed to delight with their rich texture and indulgent softness.   If you can’t decide on the perfect present, let your loved one choose with a HMCo gift card, which can be delivered to your email or to the recipient's email directly. You can also explore our Shop My Style gallery or visit us on Instagram for more gifting inspiration.  Purchase an e-gift card here

Seasonal tablescapes A shift in seasons presents the perfect opportunity to reimagine your table setting for the months ahead, taking inspiration from nature's changing palette and introducing textural layers and luxurious accents that bring a sense of occasion to every meal. Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Fog, Basix Linen Napkin in Fog SPRING  There is no better time to invite the outdoors in, as abundant flowers offer up their colour and scent to enliven your festive table. Gather an assortment of smaller vases, adding a delicate bloom to each, or place a trail of jasmine along your runner as a fragrant centrepiece. Crockery in a simple glaze will keep the focus on the food and foliage, while a pure linen tablecloth in a fresh spring hue can be layered effortlessly with nature-inspired hues.  Basix Linen Napkin in Ayrton/Russo SUMMER  Long, balmy days call for a light and airy setting, with soft, warm neutrals such as Ayrton and Petra providing an effortless backdrop for earthy dinnerware and fuss-free decorations.   Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Russo  AUTUMN /FALL From reddish-brown russet to burnt orange and ochre, the changing hues of the landscape at this magical time of year are the perfect complement to a warm, rich and earthy palette inside your home. Draping layers of pure linen in Russo, Carmel and Brun reflect the falling leaves outside, while natural, organic crockery and share platters encourage relaxed, family-style eating. As a finishing touch, polished pieces such as a candlestick or cutlery in copper or brass add elevated accents.  Flocca Linen Tablecloth in Bere, Basix Linen Napkin, Basix Linen Runner WINTER  When the temperature drops, keep your tablescape cosy by shifting the palette away from the fresh whites of summer to rich, earthy hues and a touch of understated glamour and grandeur. For warm gatherings and intimate dinners, add a hint of structure with folded napery or napkin rings, creating a moody sense of ambience with candlelight and introducing natural, tactile accents such as pinecones for an understated festive touch.

 Focus on Bere From rich chocolate hues to warm caramel and toffee tones, brown is the palette of the moment for stylists and interior designers alike. A craving for all that is earthy and nurturing as the antidote to stark, white spaces has contributed to its resurgence, and with its effortless adaptability and nod to the natural world, this is one trend that is sure to become a classic. Interior: @aki_interiordesign I Styling: @candycejames I Photography: @timothykayePublished: The Local Project I Featured: Flocca Linen Flat Sheet in Bere Our coveted chocolate hue Bere proves why this grounding colour is so popular, instantly enriching a fresh, bright space or a contemporary, pared-back aesthetic. This is demonstrated in the stunning interior project Alexandra House, designed by AKI and styled by Candyce James, where our Bere pure linen bedding is a natural fit for the home's modern, European-inspired aesthetic. Here, the emphasis is on introducing warmth through thoughtful, refined layers and artisan details. Interior: @aki_interiordesign I Styling: @candycejames I Photography: @timothykayePublished: The Local Project I Featured: Flocca Linen Flat Sheet in Bere As with the rest of the HMCo pure linen range, our Bere colourway is yarn-dyed rather than piece-dyed to offer enhanced textuality and colour longevity, while our signature Flocca edges are made up of two shades of brown yarn to add further depth and interest. In this serene, light-filled bedroom, our Flocca blanket in Bere lends an irresistible textural layer to an otherwise all-white palette. Flocca Linen Blanket in Bere  Embrace this versatile hue at home and discover how its earthy sensibility and rich tactile appeal provide unsurpassed style and comfort in all seasons. From the everyday luxury of pure linen sheets to a sumptuous blanket layered over a light, neutral palette, our beloved Bere will enrich any interior scheme.    Image & purchase via @shoppe.whitetail I Photography: @martaxperez I Featured: Flocca Linen Blanket in Bere, Basix Stripe Euro Pillowcase in Sable/Nox, Flocca Linen Duvet in Petra

With roughly one third of our lives spent sleeping, creating a healthy (and beautiful) sleeping environment should be a high priority. There are many factors that can impact sleep quality and one of the biggest is the fibres you are sleeping in. As bed linen comes in direct contact with your skin, natural fibres should be the first choice when selecting your pure linen bedding. 1. NATURAL Pure linen is a truly beautiful, natural product with an inherent timeless quality derived from flax. Flax is 100% biodegradable and recyclable. It is a great ambassador for environmental sustainability as it grows naturally, requires little or no fertilizers and does not require irrigation. It is kind on our earth and the natural strength of yarn produced from flax reduces the need for starching during the weaving process. This results in fewer chemicals being used. Often, cotton and synthetic crops are sprayed with pesticides and herbicides and these chemicals can remain the finished products and be absorbed by the skin.     2. BREATHABLE Natural fibres are the first choice in linen bedding allowing for breathability; keeping you cool and dry in summer and warm in winter. Pure linen is the first choice as it is highly absorbent and a good conductor of heat. Linen can absorb as much as 20% of its dry weight before feeling damp or wet. This means it will absorb more perspiration from the skin and the sheets will not take on a ‘clammy’ feel. Your linen bedding will feel cool to the touch and this high moisture absorbency rate will prevent the fibres from breaking down as quickly as other textiles. It is claimed, that the heat conductivity of linen is five times higher than wool and eighteen times higher than silk.     3. ANTIBACTERIAL Linen, because of its natural fibres and production process is inherently hypoallergenic. Sleeping in pure linen sheets will help you avoid common allergic reactions found with other fabrics such as synthetics. Pure linen’s natural antibacterial properties have the ability to suppress bacteria which also means sweat is less likely to break down the linen fibres as it would in cotton. The natural qualities of flax make linen the perfect non-allergenic choice. 4. SLEEP QUALITY Linen is anti-static – which explains why it remains cleaner for longer periods of time and doesn’t cling to the body. It is said that linen will soften and preserve your skin due to its PH-neutral balance. Linen bedding also has a light massaging effect on your skin due to the tiny breaks throughout the fabric. These breaks stimulate our skin, which stimulates blood flow and promotes relaxation. Linen has been shown to promote deep and relaxing sleep. A recent study found that you fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake up in a better mood after resting on linen sheets!   5. WARMTH Linen is a natural insulator and the fibres are hollow, moving air and moisture naturally making it thermo-regulating; insulating in the cold, and cool and breathable when it’s warm. During the colder months, layer linen blankets or linen throws to retain the heat and warmth from your body. Linen reacts to the season to give you the best quality sleep and is valued for its ability to keep you cool in the summer months. This is all achieved through the natural properties of the fibre itself. Investing in quality pure linen is paramount and HMCo's 100% pure European linen bedding is designed to make this a pleasurable and luxurious experience. Linen’s characteristics make it the perfect choice for luxury linen sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers.  

@ceramicasenio I @ad_magazine I Photography: @carinamaiwald Innately elegant and endlessly versatile, Petra is one of our most coveted hues. Resting softly between white and cream, this pale stone colour is the perfect option for those who don't want to fuss over keeping whites white, while bringing a feeling of freshness and serenity to your bedroom all year round.  Petra is a two-tone weave that combines our signature neutrals of light, sandy Sable and antique white Ayrton, striking the perfect tonal balance between the two and creating a subtle melange that equates to a beautiful warm stone hue. This dreamy shade is incredibly versatile, offering the ideal alternative to more optic whites when layered with bold colours while pairing beautifully with neutrals and muted, earthy colours across our entire palette.North Adelaide Residence I Design: @designbywbl I Landscape: @stubbs.peterj I Photography: @carolinecameron I Flocca Linen Pillowcase in Petra I Kristine Pillowcase in Petra I Flocca Linen Flat Sheet in Ayrton The gentle melange of Petra not only imbues the freshness of Ayrton and the warmth of Sable, but also a delightful textural quality. Spaces that are predominantly white can often feel flat, however the tonal depth of our signature melange can elevate a pared-back space with tactile appeal. Reminiscent of natural materials such as travertine and sandstone, the warm, creamy beige tones of Petra lend a soothing, grounded quality. Flocca Linen Duvet in Petra Layer Petra with Ayrton for an effortless, tonal look that feels fresh and balanced, achieving a luxurious backdrop for a calming sleep haven that can be personalised with pillows, throws and accent cushions. A similar feeling can be achieved when pairing Petra with Sable, which offers a more earthy, natural scheme. Stunning in its simplicity, Petra provides an ideal foundation to build your dream bedscape and is available across our extensive range of pure linen bedding and accessories.Flocca Linen Duvet in Petra I Crush Linen Blanket in Alba I Basix Stripe Cushion in Roy/Sable

We are always delighted and intrigued by the beautiful spaces that our pure linen collection goes to feature in. So much so that we have decided to bring you style and inspiration from those that we consider to be our Style Sirens.We are located this week in the arresting hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula. A mecca for an array of award winning wineries and restaurants, however our feature this week, Log Box in Red Hill, implores you to take a back seat to the hive of activity. In true sense of seeing the beauty in all things, Chloe Burgess and her husband identified dilapidated dairy sheds on their Red Hill acreage as an opportunity for a conversion to boutique, unique accommodation. With rolling views extending out to Western Port Bay, the two converted cabins offer an intimate, minimalist retreat where guests are encouraged to reconnect with each other and the landscape around them.     Remaining true to its authenticity and environment, the original timber truss roof and raw ply lining are prominent features that project warmth and an intimate, cosy atmosphere. The cabin has been minimally furnished in keeping with the theme of the property. The open - plan bedroom has been simplistically styled with Flocca linen bedding in cool Fog. The loveseat featuring our Flocca Macaron cushions and draping linen curtains provides an inviting a nook to witness the dramatic sunrises of the morning. The wood fire heater in the living area calls you to nestle into the bespoke sofa and settle into the easy luxury of our Flocca cushions. The intimate space is simply inviting you to pop the cork on a local bottle of wine and open the deck of playing cards.     The Log Box cabins show you that there is no place you need to go and no where you’d rather be.     For accommodation information: The Log Box Dairy Shed

Indulging in colour when styling or renovating need not be intimidating. Layering complementary or contrasting hues can completely transform the atmosphere of a room and by selecting the right tones, it can do more than create a beautiful aesthetic, it can also influence your emotion and character. We are delighted to be featured in the new Smooth Impasto campaign by Porter’s Paints, which focuses on the transformative qualities of colour in interior styling. The brand has recently released an exquisite selection of rich colours in their range, which ‘drive to create spaces that reflect our individuality and personal expression,' says Porter’s Paints. With sumptuous colours ranging from ‘a rich Grenache tone to a verdant green, terracotta, burnished red’, we love the natural and textural finish that is only achieved with a quality paint such as Porter’s Paints.     Sharing like views of texture and sophistication and a nonpareil palette, our pure linen bedding features timelessly, incorporating the lush greens of Armee throughout our pure linen bedding with the romantic touch of Rosa. Styled to perfection by the talented Heather Nette King and shot flawlessly by Mike Baker. Porter’s Paints and Hale Mercantile Co., a partnership like no other! For more tips on how to combine the perfect colour ways by Hale Mercantile Co., view our ‘Shop our Style’ page for endless inspiration.

A quaint historic post office, transformed into a beautiful and modern abode without losing any of the original period charm. Located in the quiet seaside town of Port Fairy and originally constructed in 1881, this stunning Bluestone building is the perfect example of how beautiful historical architecture can be recontextualised to work within a modern society. Stepping inside this impeccably styled space, it’s no surprise to find it’s home to Hale Mercantile Co.’s very own Sharon Patsiotis.     The unique period architectural details such as detailed doorframe panels and tall archways are complimented by the eclectic mix of antique decorative pieces, art, taxidermy, and of course Hale Mercantile linen bedding, accessories and furniture.       This beautiful home was recently featured in the June/July issue of Elle magazine, where Sharon provides a personal insight into her inspiration for the space, and the significance the coastal area has for her and her family.     Her own unique style and penchant for antiques works seamlessly throughout the space, as she explains ‘Today’s families are drawn to open-plan living, but I’ve always loved the charm of a small space for showcasing decorative pieces that don’t work in large living areas’     Photography by Shannon Mcgrath

At Hale Mercantile Co, we are passionate about the quality and integrity of the products we create and recommend. Our hard work, care, and passion for what we do is rewarded when we see Hale Mercantile products styled in a beautiful space. Suffice to say we get a buzz when we see how our products are loved and cherished by others. This is why we are excited about this particular blog feature we are about to share with you. Nestled in the quiet river-sde town of Jugiong, beside sweeping paddocks in the countryside of NSW, sits an unassuming old fashioned country pub by the name of The Sir George. This hidden gem brings old-world nostalgia and contemporary comfort together. Originally built in 1852, the historic venue has been restored to create an eclectic space filled with character and charm, and now includes a restaurant, boutique bar, accommodation and artisan bakery. Just off the hume highway between Sydney and Melbourne, The Sir George makes for the perfect watering hole or overnight stop for the weary traveler. Grounded in a philosophy of simplicity and authenticity, you’ll be treated to a menu of locally sourced Hilltops produce, a quaint beer garden, and fresh-baked goods. Should you decided to stay the night, you’ll be welcomed into warm and homely rooms adorned with stunning linen by Hale Mercantile Co. With everything The Sir George has to offer, you’ll find it hard to leave! The Sir George showcases Hale Mercantile Co Crush Linen Throw, Flocca Linen European Pillowcase, Basix European Pillowcase, and Linen Cushions Image sources: www.sirgeorge.com.au www.instagram.com/thesirgeorge