In this home, entertaining is all about having a good time. Party host extraordinaire Julie Albert celebrates her passion in Bite Me, her new cookbook written with her sister, Lisa Gnat.




Living room A mix of furnishings, including a silver leather ottoman, offers plenty of spots to relax during a party. Black-and-white photos are even more dynamic in a white interior. For a hit of colour, green velvet cushions and orchids are just the thing.

 

Den Portraits of the kids line shelves along the wall. Pink accessories pop against the serene backdrop. In a clever styling trick, Julia bought several IKEA drapery panels for each window and hung them together for a full, billowy look.

 

Focal point It's hard to miss the giant Granny Smith apple set on a pedestal. A conversation starter, this playful sculpture by Selma Calheira brightens a pair of dark grey pinstripe chairs.

 

Kitchen Frosted grey glass cabinets, blue pendant lights and a Carrara marble island and backsplash lend subtle colour and warmth to the airy, white kitchen. Julie had the space designed so everything's within reach. It's open to the dining room, which allows in light and connects the space to the rest of the house.

Ladies Night tablesetting "I love having a white dining table," says Julie. "You can do almost anything with it and it will look amazing." Here, pink flower petal placements and vintage '50s kitsch vases add girly flair.

Viva Las Vegas tablesetting Rubber Elvis figurines, feathered boas, lipstck-motif drinking glasses and lots of glitzy candlesticks take guests on a trip to Vegas. The 12-seater table is balanced by an equally impressive contemporary chandelier.

Beach Party tablesetting Water-motif wrapping paper, plastic mini muscle men, sand, shells and lanterns set the tone for this beach-themed table. "You should have as much fun with the table as you can," says Julie. "I'm always scouring dollar stores for ideas."