March 16th, 2012 by Sofia Fernandez

A glance at the latest Neato Robotics vacuum might leave one wondering if it's retro or futuristic. But improved suction and the addition of special filters means that at least inside, things are looking better. A new filter on the XV-21 is said to draw in three times as much dirt and allergens, while a newly developed bristled brush snatches pet hair. In fact it's so much more superior ... Read more

March 16th, 2012 by Sofia Fernandez

What if you could feel what's on TV or smell who's coming? The Electrolux Design Lab competition is calling for contestants to think about the sensory experience of using an appliance. This year's competition brief is to design home appliances that will provide a fuller sensory experience, whether through state of the art technology or an original blend of textures and surfaces. "I believe the importance of our sensory ... Read more

March 14th, 2012 by Sofia Fernandez

Two hideaway kitchen design ideas you've never seen before. The insane success of cooking shows like MasterChef and My Kitchen Rules has left many Australians wishing for a big new kitchen. A dream kitchen, decked out with all the latest snazzy appliances, with loads of benchspace and room to move, to prep to create to entertain! One of those professional looking set ups - just like on TV. A kitchen ... Read more

March 13th, 2012 by Sofia Fernandez

Kitchens are a significant investment and it's important to ensure that they are not outdated by changing trends. The French are famous for it: classic fashion that stands firm in the flux and flow of ever-changing trends. Future proofing a kitchen means incorporating timeless elements that won't become old hat, even in years to come. This can often involve conservative ideas, such as simple designs and monotone coloured appliances ... Read more

March 13th, 2012 by Sofia Fernandez

Slightly acidic, abrasive and aromatic, old coffee grounds have a surprising variety of uses, from reducing cellulite to helping your garden grow. If you're partial to a cup of joe, don't let the daily grind pile up on you! Here are 12 beans of wisdom for reusing coffee grounds. Personal coffee ground care Grounds are a cellulite buster, says Curbly.com. You could spend hundreds of dollars on creams and ... Read more

March 9th, 2012 by Sofia Fernandez

There's no doubt that microwaves have revolutionised the kitchen. From re-heating leftovers ("zap it in the microwave") to meals in a minute, the ease and efficiency of microwaves has seen them become an ubiquitous kitchen appliance. But how does a microwave work? How does it heat and cook ten times faster than an oven or a cooktop? The oven's namesake, microwaves, are a type of radio wave that ... Read more

March 8th, 2012 by Sofia Fernandez

Kitchen trends: Benches, drawers and impressive appliances can turn hearth of the home into the heart of the home. "The kitchen should be the heart of the home!" Peter Latemore says enthusiastically. "No one wants to poke about in a dingy kitchen while the rest of the family is in another room," he tells us at the Home Show in Brisbane. Cooking has become a thing of pleasure, not ... Read more