Author: Lauren Ellis

Categories
Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

How to: Select the right decking timber

Spring renovation season has arrived and many homeowners are turning their attention to revitalising outdoor areas ahead of summer entertaining. Installing a timber deck can add an attracting and practical backdrop for days spent alfresco.

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With a number of decking options to choose from, Leon Travis, national sales and distribution manager at Boral Timber, offers some tips for choosing decking timbers.

Selecting decking timber

Choosing decking timber largely comes down to personal preference. Australian hardwood species, such as Blackbutt, Spotted Gum or River Reds are a durable option for outdoor spaces and offer high density, toughness, colour spect rum and natural beauty. A species’ Janka rating is used to identify its hardness – the higher the rating, the greater the hardness. It is important to consider a timber species durability rating for outdoor applications.

Timber is rated for in-ground durability and above-ground durability, from Class 1 (the most durable) to Class 4 (the least durable). This provides guidelines as to which species to choose for the area where decking will be installed. For example, a fully exposed area with high moisture (such as in a wet or tropical climate) may require a Class 1 (above ground) timber such as Ironbark, Tallowwood, Spotted Gum or Blackbutt.

Blackbutt and Spotted Gum species have fire resisting properties, making them suitable for homes in bushfire prone areas. Commercial decking products are ideal for those who want to achieve a more industrial look. Boral’s range of commercial 135 x 32mm decking boards boast a greater load capacity than standard decking, offering a strong and durable option for outdoor living and entertaining spaces. The boards can be fixed with large stainless steel bugle screws, which complement the size and strength of the decking and are consistent with the look and feel of a contemporary commercial space.

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Building a deck 

When it comes to building a deck, it’s best to leave it to a professional. Consulting a licensed builder, architect or engineer can help to ensure all building codes and Australian Standards are adhered to. In addition, depending on the scope of the deck, detailed plans and building approvals may be required.

Those constructing a deck in bush-fire prone areas should consult Australian Standard AS3959: Construction of Buildings in Bush Fire Prone Areas. Local councils will be able to assist with information on the relevant regulations.

Maintaining a timber deck

Homeowners can help to preserve the colour and improve the life of a deck by regularly cleaning and maintaining it. If applying specialised cleaning products, loose dirt or garden residue should be swept away before. By simply sanding and coating exposed surfaces with a decking finish, homeowners can help to restore the existing deck to its original appearance.

For more information click here.

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Bathrooms Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT Shopping

Design your bathroom, kitchen or laundry using virtual reality!

The Blue Space is revolutionising bathroom, kitchen and laundry retail with world-first Virtual Reality technology.

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“We are changing the future of buying your bathroom, kitchen and laundry with our world-leading Situ Virtual Reality technology experience powered by HTC Vive,” says The Blue Space managing director, Josh Mammoliti.

The eCommerce retailer’s incredible Virtual Reality technology allows customers to design the space to replicate their own kitchen or bathroom, then see what an almost endless range of packages would actually look like.

It even shows real lighting and reflections, from the exact position of the sun as it moves through the day, to the accurate ambience of light fixtures. It is also dimensionally accurate, within 99.9 percent, to correctly display all the fixtures and fittings in your space.

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All hardware and surfaces are also rendered in stunning real-life accuracy. “It simply takes the hassle out of shopping for a kitchen, bathroom or laundry,” Josh says.

“You can really see what each choice you make will look like in your house. You can ‘live in it’ before you buy. It helps with choice, saves time and reduces the risk of buying something you don’t actually like. And experiencing VR is lots of fun! It’s hard not to jump out of the shower if you turn the virtual water on!”

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The Blue Space consultants can help you design your space in 3D and buy what you see online. Every premium bathroom, kitchen and laundry featured on The Blue Space can be purchased as a package and delivered straight to your door.

You can experience your space in Virtual Reality at any of The Blue Space showrooms near you or with your own Virtual Reality equipment at home.

“The Blue Space is changing the future of shopping for your next kitchen, bathroom or laundry,” Josh says.

For more information click here.

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Bathrooms Kitchens RENO ADDICT Shopping

essastone launch new range of sophisticated, durable benchtops

A benchtop is much more than just a showpiece; it’s a place for socialising, for cooking, for sharing and for living. Taking the best of what natural stone has to offer in beauty and design, essastone has re-launched its sophisticated collection of durable stone surfaces that have been perfected for life – the way we really live it.

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Made with up to 95 percent natural quartz, the new essastone range is more resilient than ever, meaning your benchtop can resist life’s wear and tear. Offering a stone solution that survives the spills and thrills of life, essastone’s key benefits include guarding against staining, scratching and citrus acid stains. It is also incredibly easy to clean, so it looks as good as the day you bought it.

The latest in interior design reveals the desire to achieve raw, natural looks, with a lot of texture. Veined decors are becoming increasingly popular as is the strong demand for concrete looks.

Reflecting emerging design trends, essastone is suitable for a range of surfaces throughout the home including benchtops, vanities and decorative features. Selected specifically for Australian interiors, the stunning new stone and concrete designs – ranging from classic European to modern industrial – will make an unforgettable impression in your next project.

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essastone marketing manager Josh Woods, said the re-launch of the brand gives homeowners even more choice when it comes to creating long-lasting, stylish interiors for everyday use. “When we live well, our benchtops live well too and essastone is the perfect surface that’s made to handle it all. It’s there for three meals a day, every dinner party, every piece of homework, every snack and every unexpected occasion.

“At essastone, we celebrate life; not just the beautiful moments, but the mess and the spills too.”

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essastone offers versatile designs that can be fabricated to make a variety of decorative  solutions. The new range encompasses the following four collections across 31 design options, including Concrete Pezzato – the revolutionary new weathered finish, exclusive to essastone – adding style and sophistication to any space.

  • Elemental: a classic design palette that is both stylish and affordable with large sheets on offer
  • Luxe: a versatile collection of contemporary and popular designs
  • Vogue: a trend led collection featuring a sophisticated palette of décors and finishes
  • Evolve: a premium collection which showcases the latest in innovative décor designs

essastone comes with a 15-year limited warranty.

For more information click here.

Categories
Bathrooms Kitchens Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real Reno: Weatherboard kitchen, laundry and bathroom reno with a nod to the past

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Patterned tiles and moody, dark cabinetry take centre stage in a spectacular renovation for a family of four in Melbourne’s south-east.

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“This kitchen blows me away. I love the warmth and interesting features in every corner of it. There is nothing in here that should go together but because we stuck to a monochromatic colour scheme it does!” said Carmel Dee, award-winning interior designer for Gia Renovations. “The original layout actually worked really well for the open plan space so we decided to keep that and add a butler’s pantry. The old kitchen was tired looking and just didn’t have any personality which looked out of place in a home which was otherwise full of life.”

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Deluxe contemporary features ground the kitchen in the present, while the fixtures and cabinetry profile are a nod to traditional elements of the weatherboard home. “The homeowners’ style was unique in that they love texture, timbers and dark finishes,” said Carmel. “To keep some of the traditional elements alive I used a simple Shaker style door in white two pack finish as our base.”

The Shaker profile also features in the island bench, where natural light and the large marble benchtop help lighten the look of the dark cabinetry. “I adore the Lincoln Calacutta marble with its beautiful matte finish and the striking dark grey veins, which are set off by the cabinetry painted in Masala by Resene paints,” said Carmel. “Because the stone was marble we used a 2mm resin finish to protect it which I have been told works a treat!”

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Because the kitchen doesn’t have pendant lights, Carmel decided to use two decorative splashback tiles. “The dark grey and white Jatana tile behind the black freestanding cooktop draws the eye to a feature point in the room,” said Carmel who opted for a white gloss fish scale tile for the main splashback to complement the wooden shelving. “The owner chose to match the grout to the wall paint colour so we used a very soft light grey which looks timeless,” she said.

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After laundry

The renovation took four weeks to complete, along with the new laundry and bathroom. “The owners asked for more storage space in the laundry while the bathroom was to be a space of relaxation and warmth,” said Carmel.

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Before bathroom
After bathroom
After bathroom

To get in touch with Gia Renovations click here.

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Bathrooms Design Expert Tips Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Renovating? Our expert reveals where to spend and where to save

Image courtesy of Gia Renovations

First up, please bear in mind that renovating your own home is very different to renovating for profit. When flipping a home, keeping costs down is usually high on the list of priorities but when you’re renovating a space to live in, it pays to splurge in some areas. You should enjoy your home and life is to be lived, right?

I have renovated many homes for myself over the years – read on to find out where I choose to splurge and where I prefer to save.

Image courtesy of Home Designing
Image courtesy of Home Designing

The bedroom

While there’s no denying the bedroom is a sanctuary, it pays to be wise with where you spend your money. Personally, when renovating my own home, I prefer to splurge on the things that will remain for some time – window coverings, carpet and a great wardrobe fit-out are all musts for me. Put your money into those areas and spend less on furnishing the room – there are so many bargains to be had on the home furnishing front these days.

Image courtesy of Gia Renovations
Image courtesy of Gia Renovations

The bathroom

When it comes to my bathroom, I think it’s important to splurge on vanities and a bath if it’s freestanding. I also think spending generously on task lighting is key (particularly if there’s a woman in the house!) and spending big on a feature tile is a good idea too – you usually only require a small amount. On the converse, you can save money on the remainder of your tile bill by selecting a simple white one for the majority of the space.

Tapware is another area in which you can save as there are so many amazing, well-priced, good-quality options around nowadays. Glazing is another key saving area – you can usually pick up a simple shower screen for a steal.

Image courtesy of Three Birds Renovations
Image courtesy of Three Birds Renovations

The kitchen

As with the bathroom, I always splurge on lighting in the kitchen as task lighting is key when cooking. I also think it’s worth spending big on the splash back and benchtop as they are key to the overall look and feel of your kitchen. I always spend big on door handles too – if you have to have them, they need to be perfect!

When it comes to renovating savings in the kitchen, I think you can save on cabinetry as there are so many amazing, well-priced finishes available now. As with the bathroom, I feel you can save on tapware in the kitchen too.

Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. 

Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

Categories
Design RENO ADDICT

How to: Reduce, reuse and recycle when you renovate

Image courtesy of Maxa Design

By Laney Clancy

At the heart of sustainability is the mantra ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’. Here’s how to renovate with these sustainable practices in mind.

Image courtesy of Maxa Design
Image courtesy of Maxa Design

Reduce waste

Renovating rather than building from scratch can be seen as the ultimate way to reduce waste. You are using some or all of the existing fabric of the building, and this reduces the need for materials, cuts down landfill, and keeps the overall embodied energy in your home lower than if you started from scratch.

A good way to reduce waste is to aim for longevity and the best way to do this is to buy quality materials, fixtures, fittings and appliances, and then maintain them well. Don’t buy cheap materials as they will break before too long, which creates waste, not only when you remove the material but financially when you purchase a new item and hire a tradesperson to install it again.

For example, if a roof is looked after (e.g. regularly checking it and cleaning your gutters) it can last 20-25 years. We see a lot of hot water systems that last around half the length of time that they would if they were simply serviced. And a good bathroom will last 10-15 years if you invest in the best solutions and great tradespeople – but don’t forget you must look after it!

Image courtesy of Maxa Design
Image courtesy of Maxa Design

Reuse material

One man’s trash can absolutely be another man’s treasure when renovating. Advertise some of the items you don’t want any more on eBay, Gumtree or a local Facebook group. Even if you give them away for free, for example through networks like Freecycle, you don’t have to pay for removal, you reduce landfill, and your piece gets a new life elsewhere. Old bricks, hard wood timber floor boards, period features and quality 1950s light fittings are in great demand and can be quite pricey, so never throw them in the skip.

You can also mine these networks for materials and fittings that you may want to use in your renovation. When renovating you should absolutely work with your trades to salvage any interesting items or reusable materials before demolition.

Also, if you can remember when you last had something maintained, installed or repaired, you can then make an informed decision of whether some of your own existing items can be reused. For example, some problem fixtures should be replaced due to their age because even if repaired now they will cause new issues in the near future. But other issues can be repaired under warranty.

Your choice of material may dictate the aesthetic of your renovation or vice versa, but fortunately there’s a big enough range to fit into a lot of different themes. Reclaimed pieces can be used for retro chic, rustic or industrial looks, for example, or it can shake things up in a very modern home.

Image courtesy of Maxa Design
Image courtesy of Maxa Design

Recycle

If you can’t reuse something, consider how you might recycle it responsibly. Glass and metal are prime candidates for recycling and many recycling plants take some kinds of plastic as well. Items such as carpet can be turned into insulation materials so don’t think of it as landfill just yet.

By mindful of recyclability when you purchase new materials and fittings as well. Ask yourself: is it made of material that can be recycled? Once you use this as criteria it will help your renovation become more sustainable.

There are a number of ways in which you can make your renovation sustainable but in many cases it comes down to the three standard principles of reduce (usage and waste), reuse (material, fixtures and fittings), and recycle (both using recycled items and recycling your unwanted items). Good luck with your sustainable reno!

Laney Clancy is the Marketing and Finance Manager at Pipe Perfection Plumbers in Sydney. She gets to talk to plumbers about plumbing and home maintenance a lot, and loves a good bathroom makeover.

Categories
Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

Expert advice: Which sells better, more space or more rooms?

Image coutesy of Belle Property

One-bedroom apartments have been the surprise hit of the real estate market in recent years, especially in the city and inner city. It’s common for renovators to try to add value to a property by adding a room but, considering this trend, you should stop and think about whether it really will.

Image coutesy of Belle Property
Image courtesy of Belle Property

What I’ve found is a lot of one-bedroom places have performed extremely well because they cater to singles and couples and these two demographics have shown a preference for one-bedders of generous proportions rather than two pokey rooms.

The preference for more space rather than more rooms doesn’t apply to everyone, however. If you’re looking to rent out a property near a university, for example, your key demographic might be students and two or more smaller rooms will be more attractive to these tenants than fewer rooms with bigger spaces. Families with children will also show a preference for more rooms over bigger rooms—the more you can separate the kids, the better.

The rule is to consider the market your property is in, the demographics of the likely buyers and their preferences.

Make room

Instead of splitting a property into smaller rooms, try to add rooms and keep the space as big as possible at the same time. How? If you can, convert space such as an attic into a bedroom, or add a room above an unused area, like the garage.

If you have a property with a yard you can apply to build a granny flat or studio that’s separate from the house and add value that way. The NSW Government has been pretty good about approving new granny flats and studios because it adds capacity without requiring new land or utility infrastructure.

No matter which state you live in, however, you need to check the laws as there may be limits on aspects such as size, or the building may need council approval.

Create a niche

There are a couple of cases where it’s a good move to add a wall or at least a separator. Converting a studio apartment to a one-bedroom place will almost always add value, for example. Although single occupants don’t mind the big open space of a studio, you can increase the appeal of the property to a wider demographic (adding couples as well) if you enclose the bedroom, as it will allow for a bit more privacy.

Also consider having a selling point like a study/office space or hobby niche. You don’t need to close off a space and make it a new room; instead, build in a separator such as sliding walls/doors or create a nook in an awkward spare corner to accommodate it.

If there’s one thing the last few years has taught the real estate industry, it’s that properties with more rooms do not always sell better than places with more space. Always keep in mind potential buyers when you feel like knocking down walls—or building them up.

Mark Foy is one of our resident experts and a director of Belle Property Surry Hills in Sydney.

Read all Mark’s articles

Categories
Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Darren Palmer: The Block’s best kitchen ever!

The level of creativity displayed in the kitchens on this season of The Block from Freedom Kitchens has blown me away. Then, just when I thought I’d seen it all, the incredible kitchen from the challenge apartment was revealed. To me, it was worthy of a 10 – and my fellow judges agreed – scoring it a perfect 40/40!

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This showstopper embodies an emerging trend from this year’s EuroCucina – New Heritage – where contemporary design celebrates heritage style, while incorporating touches of modern luxury.

There are so many standout features in this space, but the one that strikes you first is the stunning backlit Caesarstone Concetto White Quartz island bench. It’s suspended above the mirror kick – showcasing a monolith of backlit, glowing quartz.

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The real beauty of this style of kitchen is the fusion between old and new. This approach is respectful to the heritage of The Block building, with features like the shaker-style doors and the rustic library ladder – giving the space the feeling of old world charm. However, the functional elements are strictly 21st century.

Embracing the new, the futuristic aspects of the kitchen create the perfect space for the modern cook. Top-of-the-range Bosch appliances, impressive features and everyday practicalities – like double ovens – give the kitchen an extra sense of functionality, while remaining high-end.

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And when it comes to hosting, the generous Caesarstone benchtops, Bluetooth sound system, modern black palette and generous storage in both the kitchen and butler’s pantry make it the perfect match for the modern day entertainer.

Reno Addict feature writer Lauren Ellis visited The Block and created this video interview with Julia and Sasha about the kitchen.

Standout design features:

  • The matte black cabinetry makes a real statement and is right on trend
  • The shaker ‘Sierra’ profiles on the cabinetry add a heritage feel, while still being sleek and stylish
  • The use of mirror kickboards on the backlit Caesarstone Concetto White Quartz island bench creates the illusion of a floating, glowing box
  • Clever use of accessories – from the Bluetooth sound system to the walnut knife holder and spice racks – take the space to the next level for the modern entertainer
  • The storage space in this design is never-ending – from drawers and doors in the main kitchen to the open shelving of the butler’s pantry.

Featuring:

  • Cabinetry: Sierra Black Matt & Super Matt Black
  • Benchtops: Caesarstone Concetto White Quartz, London Grey & Vanilla Noir; and Noir Matt Nano Streamline
  • Kickboards: Mirror
  • Lighting: LED Strip Lighting
  • Accessories: Bluetooth Sound System, Square double bowl undermount sink, Walnut Knife Holder, Walnut Spice Rack, Sink Drainer, Square Chopping Board & Steel Cutlery Trays.
  • Bosch Appliances

To create a kitchen that’s the best on your block, book your free, in-home design appointment with Freedom Kitchens.

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Bathrooms Before & Afters House Tours Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real Reno: First-time flippers make $280,000 profit

A functional, open-plan living space leading to a backyard oasis has completely transformed an original brick veneer home in Sydney’s Forestville, making first time flipper Mariah Colella and her husband a substantial profit.

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“We made significant changes to the layout,” said Mariah who purchased the two-storey home knowing it would require a complete overall including moving the kitchen downstairs. “Upstairs we converted the old kitchen into part of a large family bathroom and the remainder into a huge master with private balcony. We created a second living space by adding a wall and also combined the old separate toilet and bathroom into one space,” said Mariah.

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The flip took place over 12 weeks and cost roughly $300,000. Downstairs, walls in the old granny flat were toned down to create an open-plan kitchen and dining space leading to a sunken living room and inviting backyard and pool. “Our favourite part of the renovation was the downstairs extension and how we were able to entertain in style with different zones on different levels, the kitchen and dining being on one level. The elevated alfresco area has a clear sight to the pool and gardens and the chilling lounge area outside with a gorgeous tree-lined view.”

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To increase street appeal, the front façade was rendered and everything given a fresh coat of paint including the house, concrete driveway, paths, roof and aluminium window frames. “At the back of the house, we sprayed the bricks to tie into our new colour scheme and added new balustrade to the upstairs balcony,” said Mariah. “We also added a large pine timber deck, which we painted to connect the extension to the pool and the grassed garden. Lighting was also key for us – we wanted a premium finish and added downlights into all of the eaves and used aged copper lighting at the front.”

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On the top level, walls were moved to make the main bathroom larger, while downstairs the bathroom had a budget revamp. “We updated the existing bathroom with tile paint and vinyl travertine tiles from Bunnings. We had our plumber put in a new toilet and shower heads to complete the room refresh.”

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The biggest challenge proved to be designing a deck and stairs for the sloping block leading to the pool – an element of the backyard that was so successful, it’s now a feature. “Our builders did an amazing job at making the design work and executing it flawlessly.”

 

As for tips for would-be flippers, Mariah says “our biggest learning with this renovation was the importance of having a solid, experienced set of trades, in particular a quality builder. We could not have done this reno with the budget and timing we had if it wasn’t for Braden from Crearter Constructions who was able to guide us through it. A quality builder is your first step to a hassle-free reno!”

Mariah and her husband are currently working on their next flip — a weatherboard cottage. To keep up with their progress, follow Mariah on Instagram.

Categories
Expert Tips Kitchens RENO ADDICT

How to: Choose a kitchen splash back

Image courtesy of Victoria Colour Glass

There was a time when there were very few options when it came to kitchen splash backs. Thankfully we’re no longer living in that era and if anything, we’re absolutely spoilt with fabulous choice. From mirror, to stone, tiles, glass or even window, there are so many great splash back options that have the power to propel your kitchen from drab to fab.

Image courtesy of Victoria Colour Glass
Image courtesy of Victoria Colour Glass

Mirror

A mirrored splash back can look fabulous and it doesn’t have to be super shiny like bathroom mirrors. In fact, there are some lovely smoky grey ones that have a subtler, mirrored finish. But given that mirror doesn’t add texture, colour of movement to a space you have to have a good reason to use it.

One excellent justification is if you want to highlight a beautiful view. Your kitchen splash back may be opposite a beautiful garden or amazing ocean view, or something else that you want to reflect. Another reason to use a mirror is to maximise a feeling of space. If your kitchen is on the diminutive side, a mirrored splash back can really open it up.

Just remember to be mindful of checking Australian standards with respect to the type of mirror you need to install as not all mirror works behind a hot plate – some will crack and shatter when they get hot.

Window

Using a window as a splash back is such a beautiful idea as it’s such an amazing way of connecting the inside of our homes with nature. Obviously this only works if you have the back side of your kitchen running along an external wall of your home and you must make sure there’s something to look at. If, for instance, the view is simply that of a Colorbond fence, you might want to reconsider installing a window If you are set on it though you could mount external art or an artificial or real green wall onto the fence – both options will make it much more attractive to look at.

But, like mirror, it’s really important that you check the Australian standards when it comes to glass – it can also shatter when it overheats.

Image courtesy of Impala Kitchens
Image courtesy of Impala Kitchens

Stone

People often discount stone as a splash back option because they think it will be too expensive. But not only are there some very affordable stone varieties on the market, the installation cost is less than tiles as there is no grouting required and the process doesn’t take as long.

Furthermore, if you’ve selected a stone bench top you will have to purchase an entire slab meaning may have a leftover piece. Slab dimensions vary, but generally they are 2400mm x 1200mm which means you might be able to get your splash back out of just one slab, making it a really affordable option.

Aside from being super easy to clean and heat-proof, stone splash backs have no grout lines and thus provide a beautiful, seamless look.

Coloured glass

My least favourite splash back option, while there are some great colour choices I think it is a rather clinical look. But there are a couple of exceptions in my mind – a glass splash back can look fabulous inside an uber modern home and I don’t mind black glass in the right spot.

Image courtesy of Ikea
Image courtesy of Ikea

Tiles

My favourite splash back option, tiles can bring so much texture and life into a kitchen. From the lovely movement and texture of a little mosaic tile to a timber-look variant, large format tiles or an on-trend patterned option, tiles can be amazing in a kitchen.

There are some things to consider though. If you want a really clean-edged finish you need to select a rectified tile for a nice, square edge and talk to your tiler about having really thin, almost imperceptible, grout lines. Some tiles are so well made and straight that you can forget the traditional grout joint entirely and simply have the tiles butt up against one another with a very thin line of sealant between then. This is a more specialised option though and will depend on your tiles and tiler’s experience.

And if you’re concerned about grout and the absorption of food stains from cooking, there are some amazing grouts around that are minimally porous too.

Laminate

If you have a really tight budget and you don’t have a cooktop in front of your splash back (and thus no heat issues) you could consider an amazing laminate or board product – from timber-look to metallics, there are some ultra-cool finishes out there.

–Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. 

Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

Categories
Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

Irrigation gets water-wise with intelligent skydrop system

Reece Irrigation have launched Skydrop, the very latest in intelligent, smart controlled watering systems. Using intuitive, cutting edge technology, Skydrop will save you money on your water bill by cutting your water usage by 50 per cent, while keeping your lawn and garden in top condition.skydrop-controller_australian_web-copySkydrop operates via WiFi and allows you to easily set up zones and manage sprinklers from a computer or smartphone. Using the intuitive, smart watering system you can control up to sixteen zones at any one time, with settings for soil type, plant type and sprinkler type, plus shade, slope angle and more.

“It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the choice of irrigation products available on the market. Our team at Reece is experienced in selecting the best, most effective irrigation systems out there and Skydrop really does represent the very latest in smart, intuitive, water-wise watering technology,” said Reece Irrigation Business Manager, Rob Nadebaum.

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The system allows you to customise your watering settings by zone, adjusting watering frequency and duration to respond to each zone’s specific conditions. Real-time data, drawn directly from up to 2000 weather stations across Australia, helps to intelligently forecast exactly when to water.

Expertly developed to do the complex calculations for you, Skydrop’s watering algorithms (patent pending) use zone settings and weather data to determine which zones should be watered, and when. And, by watering each zone separately and only when required, the system ensures your water use is significantly reduced.

“Skydrop is ideal for those areas in Australia where there are water restrictions in place, so you can simply enter what days and times you’re allowed to water and Skydrop will adjust your water schedule automatically,” said Mr Nadebaum.

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Image courtesy of LMC Embark

Skydrop has been launched in conjunction with Smart Irrigation Month, a Reece initiative that encourages better outdoor water use in Australia.

Everyone can do their part to save water by following four simple tips.

  1. Watering first thing in the morning and in the evening will reduce water loss from evaporation.
  2. Avoid watering your garden on windy days as you’ll also lose water to evaporation.
  3. Fix dripping taps and leaking sprinklers immediately to save thousands of litres of water wasted every year.
  4. Set mower blades one notch higher as longer grass equals less evaporation.

For more information on Skydrop, visit your nearest Reece Irrigation store or head online.

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DIY Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

Barry Du Bois and Don Burke OAM launch National Asbestos Awareness Month

Reno Addict resident expert Barry Du Bois and TV personality Don Burke OAM and have joined forces to remind homeowners, renovators, handymen and tradespeople about the dangers of asbestos and how to manage it safely in the prevention of deadly asbestos-related diseases for National Asbestos Awareness Month.

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Barry, Asbestos Awareness Ambassador said, “Cancers caused by inhaling asbestos are preventable simply by knowing what NOT to do with asbestos-containing materials that everyday Australian’s could find in their homes.

“Asbestos is not only found in fibro homes. Australia was among the largest consumers’ of asbestos-containing materials in the world with many products remaining in any brick, weatherboard, fibro or clad homes built or renovated before 1987.

“To help save lives it’s absolutely critical that our message reaches all states and territories so every Australian can ‘Get to kNOw Asbestos this NOvember’.

“Asbestos was used in the manufacture of a broad range of products. It can be anywhere in the home!” said Barry Du Bois.

“Under floor coverings including carpets, linoleum and vinyl tiles, behind wall and floor tiles, in cement floors, internal and external walls, ceilings and ceiling space (insulation), eaves, garages, roofs, around hot water pipes, fences, extensions to homes, garages, outdoor toilets, backyard and farm structures, chook sheds and even dog kennels so it’s vital we know where it is and the steps we need to take to manage it safely,” he said.

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Ambassador, Don Burke said, “When I was a kid, asbestos was everywhere; in our homes, in our gardens – even in our toys. I have had the honour of meeting heroic people who were victims of diseases caused from inhaling asbestos dust from around their homes. Tragically, these people are no longer with us.

“With 1 in 3 Australian homes known to contain asbestos, their heroic fight against asbestosis and *mesothelioma compels me to continue their life-saving work in preventing more people from succumbing to these awful and avoidable diseases,” Don Burke said.

“Without knowing where these types of asbestos-containing products might be located or how to manage and dispose of asbestos safely, Australian’s play a risky game of ‘Renovation Roulette’ if they disturb asbestos-containing materials and release fibres that can be inhaled which may cause asbestos-related diseases including mesothelioma,” he said.

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The two dedicated advocates for Asbestos Awareness launched the campaign at a special event during the 2016 ‘Betty – The ADRI House’ Don’t Play Renovation Roulette Tour.

‘Betty – the ADRI House’, a purpose built mobile model home designed to demonstrate where asbestos might be located in and around homes, is touring South Australia for the first time.

Having already covered more than 36,000 kilometres throughout NSW, VIC and QLD, in 2016 ‘Betty’ and her dedicated crew will travel more than 6,000 kilometres and visit 36 communities over 46 consecutive days to deliver Betty’s potentially life-saving Asbestos Awareness message.

Senator Nick Xenophon welcomed Betty saying, “Every Australian needs to know about this campaign. Every Australian can potentially be exposed to deadly asbestos fibres. It is impossible to remove all asbestos that has been used in Australia to date and to do so would mean bulldozing one in three homes.”

“Betty and this campaign is literally about saving the lives of many thousands of Australians from a horrible substance. The fact that this deadly material is seemingly everywhere means knowing the risks and how to manage it safely can save lives” Senator Xenophon said.

Peter Dunphy, Founding Chair of the Asbestos Education Committee who initiated the national campaign and Betty’s Tours said, “It’s vital that all Australian’s learn to identify and manage asbestos safely because it’s not worth the risk!

“In launching the national campaign in South Australia with Ambassadors, Don Burke, Barry Du Bois and Betty, a proven, invaluable community education resource, we’ll reach more Australians than ever before with this potentially life-saving message,” Mr Dunphy said.

Professor Nico van Zandwijk, Director Asbestos Diseases Research Institute (ADRI) said, “There is no cure for malignant mesothelioma. Asbestos cancers usually occur many years after the first inhalation of asbestos and we want Australians to stop underestimating this ticking time bomb that has a very long fuse”.

“To assist in ameliorating the Australian asbestos legacy it is vital that we learn to adequately deal with the large amounts of asbestos still present in our environment”.

“Prevention is the best solution and the National Asbestos Awareness campaign along with Betty are critical preventative measures that continue to play a vital role in educating Australians about the dangers of asbestos.” he said.

If homeowners and renovators can’t see Betty in person, they can visit asbestosawareness.com.au for a ‘Virtual Betty Tour’, ‘Asbestos In Your Home – The Ultimate Renovators Guide and search the Asbestos Products Database to identify various asbestos-containing products to ensure they manage them safely.

Asbestos Awareness Month is the initiative of the Asbestos Education Committee in partnership with the Asbestos Diseases Research Institute and supported by the Heads of Asbestos Coordination Authorities to provide local, state and federal governments with practical awareness resources including Betty.

For information on asbestos, click here.

Categories
Before & Afters Kitchens RENO ADDICT Shopping

New Lifestyle show Deadline Design with Shaynna Blaze

Image courtesy of Foxtel

Renowned interior designer and television presenter Shaynna Blaze has taken on her biggest and most personal project yet in Deadline Design with Shaynna Blaze, an inspiring new renovation series on Foxtel’s Lifestyle Channel.

Image courtesy of Foxtel
Image courtesy of Foxtel

For the very first time, Shaynna has invited viewers into her own creative world as a working interior designer, as each one-hour episode follows the journey of real life homeowners who employ her to renovate their spaces.

“Deadline Design with Shaynna Blaze is an exciting opportunity to bring Freedom Kitchens into the homes of all Australians and we’re proud to be a part of this series,” says Felicity Page of Freedom Kitchens. “We have enjoyed working with Shaynna and her team producing and delivering kitchens that meet the needs, budgets and timeframes of the homeowners.”

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Wednesday night’s episode introduced us to Jennifer and Adam, whose weatherboard in Melbourne suburb Box Hill, is bursting at the seams. The couple have dreamed of a Scandinavian style kitchen that fits the needs of their family including three young children. Style, storage and functionality are key in their new space which they needed to complete before their youngest son’s first birthday party!

Boasting a classic Scandi palette of timber and grey tones, impressive pantry space, sleek design and a massive island benchtop in Raw Concrete from Caesarstone allowing for ample preparation space with a large overhang to seat the whole family; this kitchen ticks all the boxes.

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Featuring:

  • Cabinetry: Impressions Sublime Teak Riven Finish, Alpine Premium, Newbury Moose
  • Benchtops: Caesarstone Raw Concrete with 20mm Aris edge (kitchen) & Polar White with 33mm edge (pantry)
  • Handles: 8-H-12 Stainless Steel Pull & Touch Catch
  • Accessories: Design Sides (drawers), Oak Knife Holders, Oak Knife Holder & Steel Cutlery Tray

Follow Deadline Design with Shaynna Blaze on The Lifestyle Channel on Wednesday nights at 9.30pm.

For more information on Freedom Kitchens, or to arrange a free in home appointment with a professional kitchen designer click here or call 1800 113 733.

Categories
RENO ADDICT Styling

The power of property styling: North Bondi case study

An Art Deco block in iconic North Bondi has sold well above price expectations after the apartments were impeccably styled by the team at Bowerbird Interiors.

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“We had hundreds of people through the property,” said developer Scott Lockwood from Platinum Strata Consultants who purchased the federation apartments for around $4 million and completed cosmetic renovations before listing the apartments. “We thought we’d make somewhere in the vicinity of $500,000-to-$1 million on it. It got a little bit over $6.3 million and we are ecstatic.”

Bowerbird is part of a new generation of property stylists offering a more personalised service and contemporary, on-trend interiors that are tailored to the individual property. “I’ve used other companies previously, unfortunately with their stylists they were set in the way they wanted to do things and also their furnishings were probably from three to 10 years old. I wanted someone fresh.”

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The Bowerbird team drew inspiration from both the period features and the beachside surroundings to create a relaxed and eclectic sanctuary. “We needed to make sure that we demonstrated the property in the best possible way, which included a relaxed, beachside feel and some statement pieces like the large statement artwork in the kitchen,” said Geoff Lewis, managing director who runs the home staging business with wife Lauren.

They also dressed the sunroom as an additional living space and created an eat-in kitchen to increase the properties’ appeal. “Styling creates warmth in a space that will connect with your potential buyers. Our goal is to help clients achieve a massive return through creating beautifully styled spaces,” said Geoff.

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This case study is far from a standalone – since starting the business three years ago, Geoff says Bowerbird has styled close to 1,000 properties, with 95% achieving a successful return on investment.  “We understand the target market – the potential buyers. This results in a quick sale for a higher price.”

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Find out more about the North Bondi apartments and Bowerbird Interiors here.

Categories
Bathrooms RENO ADDICT

Trend report: Luxury artisan basins

Introducing the latest in bathroom trends, Caroma’s Artisan basins feature a deluxe thin rim design which will add a touch of elegance to any bathroom.

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Influenced by European trends, the Artisan basins represent the freshness and simplicity of Nordic style design offering affordable luxury to the style conscious.

Celebrating 75 years this year, Australia’s leading bathroom brand is dedicated to researching the latest techniques and technologies, providing you with the biggest trends that look great whilst also suiting your lifestyle and bathroom use.

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Pricing for the Artisan basins start at $380.

Find out more here.

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RENO ADDICT

Tradie prices drop in NSW but increase around the country

Image courtesy of Tradie Point

Building, construction and carpentry prices across NSW plummeted last quarter signalling an early indication the housing market may have finally peaked.

Image courtesy of Tradie Point
Image courtesy of Tradie Point

The cost to hire a carpenter decreased by 8.7 percent compared to the previous quarter, with building and construction prices also down 5.6 percent.

“We believe the result suggests an impending downturn in the property market. Fewer property owners and investors are undertaking renovations so consumer confidence might not be as strong as it was last year,” says ServiceSeeking.com.au CEO Jeremy Levitt.

“Investors only renovate for a positive return on investment and if that potential is not there they won’t renovate. Our data shows a relative oversupply of tradespeople to current levels of demand resulting in downward pressure on tradie prices.”

The Victorian renovation sector has started the new financial year strongly with tradie prices up 2.4 percent year-on-year.

All trades in Queensland, with the exemption of electricians, recorded big revenue hikes in the past year according to new statistics. Building and construction services were the biggest winners with a monumental 20.3 percent increase in prices year-on-year and an incredible 14 percent quarterly rise. The average price now sits at $69.73 in the sector, taking it to 10 percent above the national average.

The soft housing market in WA has had a flow-on effect with a 25 percent downturn in building and construction costs. Reporting a massive year-on-year fall to $59.27 per hour, building and construction tradies are feeling the pinch. Their prices fell 7.9 percent in the last quarter alone according to data released today by jobs website ServiceSeeking.com.au.

The average cost to hire a tradie across Australia is $59.56 per hour, up 1.6 percent year-on-year and 0.7 percent on the last quarter.

The prices were derived by comparing a sample of 52,000 quotes submitted during the FY17 Q1 through ServiceSeeking.com.au, the website for getting any job done from tradies to professional services.

To view price changes across eight popular renovation services around the country, including major capital cities, see www.serviceseeking.com.au/renovations

Categories
Bathrooms Design Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

Expert advice: How, when and why to use feature tiles in a bathroom

Image courtesy of Houzz

Whether or not to include a feature tile in a bathroom is something I debate all the time. From a patterned floor to a feature shower niche, it’s not simply about a feature wall anymore as I think that’s a little dated and 90s. Furthermore, I believe that if you’re using a feature tile it needs to have a practical purpose.

Image courtesy of Houzz
Image courtesy of Houzz

Optical illusion

Feature tiles are your secret weapon when it comes to making a bathroom feel more spacious. If I’m designing a bathroom that is wider than it is long from the door, I will sometimes run the floor tile (or a derivative of it) from the floor up the back of the wall opposite. This will elongate or lengthen the room and is a great trick for small spaces.

Accentuate the positive

Another reason to use a tiled feature wall might be to highlight an architectural feature – you might not have plain, straight walls and have nooks or cut-outs instead. Adorning them with a feature tile can be a good option – in fact, using a feature tile in a bathroom niche is very popular at the moment.

Image courtesy of Kyal and Kara
Image courtesy of Kyal and Kara

 Zoning

Just as a rug can help zone a living space, a feature tile can serve the same purpose. For example, if your bathroom has been designed with a ‘wet room’ concept, where it’s very open, you may want to use tiles to carve up the space. You could change the tone, texture or shape (just one by the way!) of your tiles on the floor or wall to help define the bathroom’s zones.

Subtle texture

Your feature tile doesn’t have to be highly contrasting. In fact, if your bathroom is on the smaller side it is preferable to use the same tile in a different size or shape as busy tiles can be overwhelming. In a small bathroom I would use a 300mm x 300mm floor tile with the same tile in a different format on the wall – the tile might come in a hexagonal shape or you could lay a subway tile in a herringbone format. This technique is great for creating subtle textures and interest.

Image courtesy of Beaumont Tiles
Image courtesy of Beaumont Tiles

A word of warning

I would rarely put a coloured or beautiful feature tile behind a toilet as the toilet is not something I ever want to highlight. Also, if you’ve spent a lot of money on a feature tile, you need to consider how much of it you will be covering up. For instance, if you’re putting them behind your vanity you should consider that you’re going to be mounting a mirror on top of them. A cheaper tile is probably a better solution for that area and you can use your feature tile elsewhere. Basically, don’t ever use a feature tile in a space where you won’t be able to see and enjoy most of it!

Less is more

While feature tiles can be super effective, if you’re using one, let it be your bathroom’s hero and don’t overdo it by adding feature tapware, lighting, basins or a feature bath too. Like most matters of design, simple is often best.

–Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. 

Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

Categories
RENO ADDICT Shopping

How to: Pick the right paint brush

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Whether it’s a minor repair, repainting the home or a small building project, to achieve professional results the right paint brush is essential.


Rod Bradey from Dynamic Paintware shares three tips to keep in mind when shopping for a new paint brush.

Brush style

The style of a brush refers to the cut and shape of the brush head and each are used for different tasks and surfaces. Paint and wall brushes are the most standard type as they are thick flat brushes that hold a lot of paint and are used for painting large surfaces.

Cutter brushes are specially made for door and window frames, ceiling and wall corner sections as they’re used for cutting in before roller painting. Cutter brushes have fewer filaments and have a specially shaped tip for accurate and straight brush lines, and a long handle to help control each stroke.

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Brush size

Size is important when selecting a brush for each project. For small jobs and touch-up work a 12-25mm brush works best. A 38mm brush is ideal for furniture, window frames, trellises and downpipes. For medium sized painting tasks such as doors and cabinets a 50mm brush is best, while 63 – 75mm is most suitable for large areas such as walls, floorboards, and post and rail fences. When painting larger areas select a 100mm brush to help get the job done quickly.

Bristles and different paints

Quality bristles are important for achieving even, streak-free results. Brushes with quality bristles provide more efficient pick-up and steady release of paint, which reduces splattering. Different bristles (also known as filaments) are needed for different paints, and water-based paints are best suited to synthetic filaments.

The Dynamic Infinity 100% Dupont Chinex is crafted with Chinex filaments delivering the ideal balance of paint pick-up and release for high quality, high viscosity water-based coatings. The Dynamic Solomon Range of Brushes with a mixture of both polyester and nylon filaments provide excellent performance in both water and oil based paints. Remember to match the quality of the brush to the quality of the paint.

Dynamic Paintware is available from quality independent paint stores nationally.