On a recent visit to Koskela in Sydney, I noticed a small area within the showroom displaying images of a gorgeous holiday home available for rent.  On closer inspection it became obvious that this was the kind of holiday home I spend days/weeks searching for – but can somehow never find!

Dickebusch is located in the sleepy fishing village of Patonga and located just an hour or so north of Sydney.  The house and cottage have been restored and renovated by the oh so clever team at Koskela and can comfortably sleeps up to eight guests.  With all the mod-cons one could wish for coupled with the relaxing vibe of a beachside retreat, I’m thinking I may just have to check this baby out.  Swoon….

Birds. They’re such inspiring little creatures, creating their own homes by gathering only what they need, whilst never losing sight of the fine balance between nature and nurture. Amazing really…

Perhaps this is why I was left almost speechless recently when my friend Fiona presented me with a selection of bird’s nests she had so lovingly made. Using a unique combination of Silver Birch twigs, grasses, Merino wool and silk fibres, Fi has intricately replicated these little dwellings and somehow magically captured their various imperfections. She says “They shouldn’t be perfect, they must have the odd element or twig that is a little bit loose or free. Remember birds are hunters and gatherers, they take only what they need and nothing more…”

If you’d like to know more about Fiona and her inspiring work, feel free to leave a comment below…..

A Fawn & Fox Giveaway!

Our Antler Avenue blog has been a little neglected over the last 6 months. Running Fawn & Fox, sourcing special new finds and day to day life have forced it into the backseat.  However, I’m now coming out the other side and look forward to sharing some of the things that catch my eye as I search the globe to find the next best product for our little online boutique. So in keeping with our rejuvenated Antler Avenue blog, I would like to share with you my latest faves from Fawn & Fox –

Bergstein Ladies gumboots 

It was only a matter of time before Dutch brand Bergstein designed a ladies gumboot! Following the great success of their children’s range, this simple and stylish design is sure to turn heads this winter.  Slate grey is definitely my colour of choice, with red coming a close second.

Coloured Balancing Blocks

Whether you’re big or small, these balancing blocks are such fun.  Hand made in New York,  play or display,  it’s up to you.

Little Navajo Boots

How could I not include our Little Navajo Boots?  Fur lined and made in Europe, they’re super special!

Bergstein Children’s gumboots

Our bestseller has always been this little red gumboot. A true classic – say no more..

Wooden Anchors

I’m quite partial to ANY nautical paraphernalia and these gorgeous wooden anchors had me at “hello”!

Now for the fun part…how you can win yourself a $200 Fawn & Fox Gift Voucher to spend on your faves from our Lifestyle, Women’s or Children’s ranges!

To enter, simply leave a comment below telling us which Fawn & Fox product you are lusting after the most. You can view them all here.

*For your entry to be valid, you need to LIKE Fawn & Fox on Facebook.*

You can earn additional entries by completing any of the following:

• follow Antler Avenue Blog (over there on the right)
• share this giveaway on facebook/instagram/pinterest/your blog
• sign up to the Fawn & Fox newsletter here

PRIZE MUST BE REDEEMED BY 31 MAY 2013

***Our winner has been drawn via random.org. Congratulations to comment #28 – Virginia Mason. Please email us at info@fawnandfox.com.au to organise your voucher.***

We recently took a short break with friends and travelled to Smoko, a tiny township set just outside of Bright in regional Victoria. The property was aptly named The House at Smoko, and to be honest, it was nothing short of idyllic.

The creation of ‘Smoko’ has seen corrugated iron, local stone and natural timber combine to create the most glorious organic structure. Originally inspired by the historical tobacco drying kilns and cattlemen’s huts that pepper the landscape, the current owners have transformed the property and created a truly indulgent dwelling.  The two acres of gardens that surround the house keep the children in mind with old school swings, an inground trampoline and wood shed to explore.  While the remaining sixteen acres of grazing land continue down to the stunning Ovens River and beyond.

Our days were spent exploring the area by bicycle, a spot of trout fishing was enjoyed and the winding roads through the Great Alpine Valley were fabulous.  The little township of Bright, only a short drive away, offered plenty of options for hot coffee and tasty treats, absolute heaven!

If you’re after a glorious getaway, no matter what the season, the House at Smoko ticks all the boxes.  Get yourself there, pronto!

This short video of a Father and son creating a special memory made my morning. Enjoy…

Sure, I’m not the first person to post about this magical place, but I simply couldn’t help myself!

Located in upstate New York and dubbed the Floating Farmhouse, this property was once close to being condemned. Thankfully, the new owner had better ideas and after pouring some serious love and attention into the project, it is now a complete and utter gem – feast your eyes on this baby…

This Swedish summer home located on the island of Gotland is yet another little gem worth sharing with you.

The perfect mix of casual style, rustic charm and family warmth is exactly what I hope to one day replicate in a country retreat of our own – I’m saving feverishly as we speak!

So much goodness beautifully captured in just a handful of images, pure joy….

This  New York retreat had me at “hello”!

From it’s strangely haunting exterior to that killer porch area, this is one little getaway I’d love to get my hands on.   Dreamy huh?

Not so long ago I was approached by the lovely Jodi from the Che & Fidel blog regarding an upcoming shoot on the Apple Isle!