Tag: diy

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Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Build your own DIY fire pit

Build your own DIY fire pit

Looking for a weekend reno project that’s perfect for the cooler months?

Look no further than this DIY fire pit! There’s nothing quite like sitting around a smouldering fire, toasting marshmallows or enjoying a glass of something a little bit stronger. There are plenty of ready made fire pit options on the market but an inbuilt DIY fire pit adds a little extra something.

It could be said that the fire pit is the new water feature. A functional landscaping feature that transforms your outdoor area into a cosy and inviting space – perfect for those winter evenings. “The ambience a fire pit brings is worth the investment alone, providing an enjoyable feature for the backyard and a natural gathering spot for socialising and entertaining,” explains landscape expert and Adbri Masonry brand ambassador, Jason Hodges.

Here’s how to create your very own DIY fire pit in a weekend.

Build your own DIY fire pit

Build your own DIY fire pit

Materials required:

  • AB® Courtyard York Blocks x 56
  • AB® Courtyard Caps x 28
  • Tube of Masonry Adhesive x 2
  • Metal Fire Ring (opt) x 1
  • 20kg Bags of Crushed Rock x 10
  • 20kg Bags of Decorative Rock (optional) x 6

How to:

1. Excavation – After you determine the location of your fire pit, you will need to excavate the area. Lay the first course of Adbri AB® Courtyard York blocks so you can mark the location of where the blocks will be. Remove the blocks and dig a level trench 75mm deep and 178mm wide or excavate the full circle.

Build your own DIY fire pit

2. Creating The Foundation – Fill the trench with a weak mix of sand and cement, about 6:1 (6 parts sand and 1 part cement). Take your time to ensure the foundation is level. Place 4 x AB® Courtyard blocks at the cross points of the circle and use a straight 2×4 and a level to check the entire trench is level. Make adjustments by adding or removing the sand and cement screed.

Build your own DIY fire pit

3. Laying The First Course – Place the base course of blocks on the foundation pad, check the levelling each time a few blocks are laid to ensure that they are all level from front to back and side to side before placing the next block. This will ensure a level base course.

4. Second Course – Stack the next course of blocks, making adjustments as necessary. Once installed, remove sod/vegetation from the centre of the fire pit area. Lay approx. 6 x 23 kg bags of clean rock within the circle to cover the bottom of the fire pit. Then using a shovel, rake smooth.

Build your own DIY fire pit

5. Finish With Wall Caps – Place AB® Courtyard Caps on top of the fire pit, securing them with a tube of masonry adhesive.

Build your own DIY fire pit

6. Finishing Touches – Install decorative rock to line the interior of the pit. Place a steel bowl or metal fire ring in the centre to contain the flames and get the marshmallows ready.

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Designers Interviews

Dolls’ house interiors so good they’ll make you look twice!

Mel Sebastian has always dabbled in art, and was busy running her own art studio – that was until 3.5 years ago, when she witnessed her stepfather building a doll house for his granddaughter. His creation inspired her to create her first miniature room – and she has been creating ever since.

Rather than building full doll houses, Mel focuses on standalone boxes that display a single room.

“My aim is to capture the vignette of one room,” she says. “Other than the fact that it is a lot less time consuming than creating a whole house, it is a great way of designing a space without costing a bomb. Clients also have the freedom to mix and match different rooms this way.”

All of the décor items featured in Mel’s miniature rooms are handmade from scratch.

“I use anything that encapsulates the particular mood I am after. From industrial material recyclers to op shops and fabric stores, I can spend hours sourcing the perfect materials. A broken cell phone can hold treasures once you open it up. Nothing is too precious – I have been known to sacrifice vintage skirts to upholster couches.

“I love to use wood, concrete, steel and textiles – materials that not only look, but feel authentic.”

Her inspiration comes from many things, fuelled by her obsession for creating beautiful spaces.

“I am a great consumer of interior design images, and am constantly trawling through Pinterest and online publications. Sometimes, the inspiration comes from the materials themselves, such as the timbers prevalent in Scandinavian design. Sometimes it is a certain technique that will spark the excitement, like ‘Shou Sugi Ban’, the ancient Japanese art of charring wood.”

Coming from an art background, creating miniature rooms has not been without its challenges.

“The whole process is hugely time consuming, because a lot of it is about sourcing the actual materials. Then there is patience – waiting for glue to dry, for example – and the ability to think outside the box (pardon the pun). There have been a lot of YouTube videos along the way.

“It’s very similar to what interior designers do, just on a smaller scale. And scale is extremely important to create the illusion. There have been times where customers have bought off my Etsy shop, thinking it was the real thing.”

Hailing from Brisbane’s west, the majority of Mel’s clients aren’t children, but rather adult collectors.

“Within every person there is a child, engrossed in creating their own miniature décor space. The doll house concept has undergone a major revival. My room boxes are popular with offshore collectors who buy for their own enjoyment. I have even been approached by clients who want to capture a space they are renovating, to get an idea of how to furnish the real deal.”

Her favourite project so far has been her most recent – a series of replicas of some notable designers’ work (she can’t give too much away yet), due for a launch at the upcoming London Design Festival.

“They found me through Facebook, and the challenge was to create 60 exact replicas in less than 30 days, and have them approved by the actual designers. I definitely feel like a bit of a trailblazer. Working in modern miniatures is a specialist niche discipline.”

Follow Mad Missy Minis on Instagram, Facebook, or visit the Etsy store.

If you loved this story, check out more on the modern dollhouse trend here.

Categories
Expert Tips Kitchens

The best tricks for a cheap DIY kitchen makeover

After

By Cherie Barber

Last month, I highlighted two bathrooms I’d renovated for prices that probably drew disbelief from some who might have forked out treble the amount for half the impact. Those two case studies hopefully did demonstrate what highly targeted cosmetic renovating is all about.

This month, I’m shifting the focus to kitchens. The trick, as always, is to zoom in on the obvious flaws, without delving into expensive and largely invisible or unnecessary updates. For example, updating things like old tapware, handles, lighting and power point covers are cheap fixes compared with moving your sink from one end of the kitchen to the other.

If your kitchen layout is perfectly okay, then don’t mess with it, short of maybe adding a few additional cupboards or shelves, which won’t require plumbing or electrical trades – that always bumps up the price.

Saving graces

If you really do need to install a new kitchen, there are a couple of cost savings worth considering. While I’d consider it design suicide to try and install your own flatpack kitchen and get it looking professional (hire a carpenter or installer for this), there’s no reason why any handy DIYer can’t assemble the cupboards themselves. If you’ve successfully pulled off an IKEA brain teaser, then you should be fine with this assembly task.

And if you’ve decided to project manage the kitchen renovation yourself, be sure you’re across the all-important “order of works”, which dictates which trades are needed for what stage of the renovation (eg, carpenter, sparkie, plumber, tiler, benchtop installer, etc); otherwise you’ll either be waiting on trades that aren’t available or paying for endless callouts when a couple would have covered it.

A couple of useful free tools are:

Bunnings kitchen planner 

Wattyl colour planner 

Here are two kitchens I’ve done that highlight what you can be achieved on tiny budgets if all they need is a few decades stripped away.

The $2300 kitchen

  • Paint existing kitchen cabinets and rangehood with specialty paints
  • Paint benchtops, tinted to Taubmans “Viking Gray”, finishing with White Knight Bench Top Clear
  • Install new feature tiles for splashback
  • Remove old oven and reformat the space to incorporate microwave
  • Install Gerflor feature panels on underside of the breakfast bar
  • Install feature light over breakfast bar
  • Install new slimline venetian blinds
Before
After

 

The $4000 kitchen

  • Reshuffle existing kitchen cabinetry for a more functional layout
  • Add corner shelving
  • Create a new large pantry (not pictured)
  • Install new benchtop in missing sections
  • Replace handles
  • Install new kitchen appliances
  • Install new splashback wallpaper
  • Install glass panel over wallpaper
  • Install white tiles around window
  • Repaint existing kitchen cabinets
  • Resurface benchtops using Rust-Oleum Benchtop Transformations Kit 
  • Install micro venetian blind
Before
After

Cherie Barber is the director of Renovating for Profit, a company that teaches everyday people how to buy and renovate properties for a profit. 

Categories
Interiors Addict

Create your own floral arrangements with free online workshop

Given the popularity of unstructured bouquets and the ‘just-picked’ look, it makes sense that people are increasingly making their own floral creations. Creative, bespoke and rather therapeutic, what’s not to love? Capitalising on the DIY trend, and contrary to other florists, Bloombox Co deliver an array of seasonal flowers to their customers (on a subscription basis) together with video styling suggestions. And this month sees them host their popular free Five Minute Flower Challenge again – a series of short online workshops that let you play florist in your own home.

The company has run the initiative before and given its popularity has decided to host another series, kicking off on June 21. The workshops will teach you how to arrange flowers simply and with your own creative flair and are the perfect complement to the Bloombox Co business model. “It’s more about the experience than just the end product and that’s why we don’t sell pre-arranged bouquets,” says Philomena Kwok, one of the co-founders of Bloombox Co.

Using a sticky tape grid makes flower arranging easier – a technique covered in one of the weekly tutorials.

Since its inception in 2014, Bloombox Co have launched Sydney and Melbourne delivery services and are soon to launch in the US. The company has also gained a massive global audience who tune in to view their simple styling videos posted on social media – some videos have been watched close to two million times. “We want women to feel confident in their creativity and to enjoy flowers in their homes regularly, rather than feel like they’re something that only a professional florist can arrange,” says Melissa Whidjaya, the other half of Bloombox Co.

An arrangement by a past challenge participant @kristen.poissant

One of the classes shows viewers how to “forage” for botanical elements within their neighbourhood. “The best part is doing the challenge along with our participants, and seeing their beautiful arrangements. We show them a few simple techniques and it’s amazing to see what they can do with them,” says Philomena.

Sign up for free to join Bloombox Co’s next online challenge, commencing on June 21.

Categories
RENO ADDICT Styling

How to modernise and add value to your home

How to modernise and add value to your home

With reality TV shows like House Hunters, The Block and House Rules sparking visual interest, DIY home renovations have boomed in popularity. Homeowners are finding the courage to tackle projects to craft the ideal space and boost home value. But is it as easy as it seems on television? Whilst these reality shows offer inspiration and tips to fuel DIY renovations, it takes knowledge, practice and research to really hit the nail on the head.

If you’re looking at doing a cosmetic renovation (no structural changes), Cherie Barber from Renovating for Profit recommends to stick to 10% of the property value. “This should be what your home is valued at now, not what you paid for it.

Earlier this year, statistics showed Australia have become a house-proud bunch. According to Roy Morgan, nearly 62% of our county’s homeowners carried out renovations in the last 12 months. A significant increase from the 57% three years earlier. Focusing on low cost renovations that will add more value than they’ll cost you to do is key. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

How to modernise and add value to your homeImage source: Complete Home

 – Open Plan Living – There has been an increasing trend for open plan living for some time now. It’s a desirable feature demanded by homeowners and buyers. For open plan home renovations, it’s important to define the purpose of each room to outline where open plan living will work and where it won’t. Borders and functional statement pieces will help create meaning and flow to the space.
Tip: There is such a thing as being ‘too open’. Homes still crave some privacy so avoid merging too many rooms together. Spaces that lack definition can happen when a secondary living room is ripped out for open plan, which significantly reduces the total living space. Instead, opt for multipurpose areas with ample amounts of light and create spaces that are open plan with private areas too.

 – The Importance of Kerb Appeal – If you’re looking to renovate to add value to your home, kerb appeal is vital. It’s also a cost-effective way to modernise the home and add life to a tired looking property. First impressions count and the front façade of the home needs to reflect this. Pressure cleaning and painting external walls can make a huge difference and won’t break the budget. Big, bold numbering, a brightly coloured front door that offers a cheerful ‘pop’ and smart landscaping techniques go a long way. Spruce the garden up with new plants and create entries with pathways.
Tip: Add depth with a fence. This is great way to make a small yard appear larger and establishes a welcoming boundary between the street and your private space. Use accent colours to spark visual interest that can be seen from the other side of the street too.

How to modernise and add value to your homeImage source: House Beautiful

– Revamp the Kitchen and Bathroom – Especially when it comes to cosmetic renovations, the kitchen and main bathroom are key areas. The kitchen is a big- ticket item when it comes to boosting property value. Don’t be afraid to spend money here for a high return of investment. Think new and quality appliances, a practical open plan layout and ample storage. Decent fixtures should be installed in both spaces with modern appeal to attract buyers and investors.
Tip: Use a wall mirror for small bathrooms to make the space look bigger and add features like a heated towel rail for added luxury. For the ultimate kitchen facelift, it’s recommended to use 2% of your current property value. This will revamp the entire space including labour costs.

 – Bring the Indoors Outside – A healthy outdoor space goes a long way with modern homes and property value. Think of the outdoor area as an additional living space and merge the two worlds together by bringing everything you love and see inside, outside too. This space should be treated as an extension of the home and be seamlessly connected. Make the outdoor area functional by zoning off spaces. Decking and patios make the outdoor room usable all year around and if budget permits, consider adding an outdoor kitchen to make entertaining easier.
Tip: Comfort, lighting and shade are key for outdoor spaces! Pull colours, textures and furniture styles from inside the home outside. If you’re adding a patio space, complement the existing architecture by utilising unique features of the property in the design. Use fencing and shrubbery to add boundaries and an element of privacy.

How to modernise and add value to your homeImage source: Country Living

 – The Little Things Matter – Great renovations aren’t just about knowing what to target. Attention to detail is paramount and will help turn a good renovation into an exceptional one. Never underestimate the importance of a quality paint job and the transformations a fresh coat of paint can make. Updated light fixtures in all the rooms can lift the modern appeal and create a statement too. Invest in value-adding details that won’t cost and arm and a leg. Air conditioning, polished floorboards or new carpet, security systems and high-quality branded kitchen appliances are small investments that offer big value.

What areas will you be focusing on for your home renovation?

Author Bio: This article is written by Jayde Ferguson, who writes for Stella Design & Construction – a specialised home improvement company that focus on high quality house additions and renovations. You can catch her on Google+.

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Bathrooms RENO ADDICT

6 easy ways to refresh your bathroom tiles

The words ‘quick’ and ‘bathroom refresh’ don’t usually co-exist in the same sentence! Fortunately, there are plenty of nifty ways to give your bathroom an overhaul without the need for time consuming (and expensive) renovations.

6 easy ways to refresh your bathroom tilesKonecta Home

1. Retile – A great way to refresh your bathroom is to retile. If your bathroom is quite small, choosing light coloured tiles will make the room feel instantly larger and brighter. Natural finishes and colours such as concrete rustic sand, slate and granite are all versatile options which provide a great neutral base for any home. Stone and granite large format tiles have also proven to be popular as they can help make a smaller space appear much larger.

2. Regrout – Sometimes tiles can begin to look dull without regular TLC and the grout may become mouldy or cracked. In this instance, you will have to look at replacing the grout which can do wonders for your bathroom. Changing the grout colour is also a great way to instantly update your space.

3. Seal where possible – If you’ve noticed that your shower is starting to leak, that the grout is starting to weaken, or your sealant is peeling and de-treating, this means it’s time to reseal. With innovative new sealant product, Loctite RE-NEW, you can now seal away your shower and basins with an easy-to-use, single product. This product is the perfect tool when sealing joints in wet areas, such as the shower, bath tub and vanity, and is ideal for D.I.Y. beginners. Each tube incorporates a smoothing, integrated applicator which makes it a breeze to apply. Sealing is quick and easy to do and will protect your home from unsightly sealant joins for years to come.

4. Freshen up the space – Paint is one of the quickest and most economical solutions to revamp your bathroom. When choosing a colour, all white is a traditional favourite, however natural shades such as light greys, are also a stylish option. When shopping for the paint and products, ensure they are waterproof and bathroom appropriate. The great thing with repainting the bathroom is that most spaces have minimal painted surfaces. This means that majority of these projects can be done in a weekend and can be a solo job.

5. Introduce touches of colour – Look to add touches of colour and texture where you can in a plain, neutral coloured room to instantly lift your bathroom. Painting the side of the bath, for example, can transform your entire room, yet it is easy to reverse should you choose to update your bathroom again. Switching in new colourful window blinds and bathroom towels and accessories can instantly add life to your bathroom. You can also try adding a colourful plant or fancy shower curtain to give the bathroom a pop of colour.

6. Water-proof it – Sealing grout in the bathroom is the best way to keep your grout clean and waterproof. Shower tiles are constantly bombarded by running water, so sealing the grout is a necessity to keep it waterproof and guaranteed to last. Loctite RE-NEW features an innovative formula of Silicontec2.0 which is 100 per cent silicon and water-proof. This means the sealant will cover and hinder the growth of mould, for guaranteed long-
term mould protection. This will keep your bathroom looking whiter and brighter for longer.

For more information about Loctite RE-NEW visit www.loctite-consumer.com.au

Categories
Interiors Addict

New Dulux paint effects include concrete, steel and copper

Whether it’s concrete, copper, stainless steel, gold or a subtle shimmer effect that you’re after, you’ll love the new range from Dulux. The paint brand’s Design Effects Collection allows you to decorate with luxe texture and is ideal for DIY enthusiasts.

Dulux Metallic Effect in Stellar Glow (fireplace), Dulux Wash&Wear in Bamboo Shoot (wall), Dulux Wash&Wear in Natural White (skirting)

“There are so many ways you can create a design statement with Dulux Design Effects. From the simplest idea such as painting pots for indoors plants or a block texture behind your favourite artwork to painting an entire space,” says Dulux colour expert Andrea Lucena-Orr.

Dulux Stainless Steel Effect and Dulux Metallic Effect in Prestige

“Painting patterns on a wall with a Design Effect in combination with Dulux Wash&Wear interior paint adds a bit of fun to a room. You can even make a design statement by painting your favourite timber side table, lamp base, old vases or ceramic items,” says Andrea.

Dulux Copper Effect and Copper Patina (cabinetry), Dulux Concrete Effect in Pale Elements (wall)

It’s the ability to create bespoke paint looks that impresses – you can do this by experimenting with application techniques. You can test different brushes, dry rollers or muslin by dragging the paint in random or overlapping patterns giving endless finishes.

Dulux Metal Shimmer in Star Masquerade

The Dulux Concrete Effect comes in two shades and is perfect for a modern, industrial effect while the Dulux Stainless Steel Effect gives a slick, stylish steel vibe. Dulux Copper Effect looks wonderfully lustrous on its own or you can add an aged copper green patination with the Dulux Copper Patina Effect. The Dulux Gold Effect can be tinted to create rose or bronze gold while the Dulux Metal Shimmer Effect adds a subtle shine and is available in five colours.

Dulux Gold Effect in Vintage Gold and Bronze Essence with Dulux Wash&Wear in Stepney

Photography: Mike Baker | Styling: Bree Leech & Heather Nette King

For more

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Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

How to: Protect your exterior timber during winter

How to: Protect your exterior timber during winter

As winter rolls in, the timber deck and any timber fixtures, like windows and doors, or furniture are vulnerable from exposure to the harsh Australian weather conditions. Cold temperatures and rain are timbers’ worst enemy and without proper protection timber joinery and structures around the home can easily deteriorate.

To ensure timber surfaces stay healthy and last for as long as possible, it’s important to apply the best protection and inspect regularly for cracks or rotting sections. It’s recommended that you put the following in place before it’s too late.

How to: Protect your exterior timber during winter

How to: Protect your exterior timber during winter

Repair – Regular inspection is recommended each season to ensure any cracks or unpainted areas are attended to. Dry rot can cause further damage to timber so ensure any splits, holes or cracks are filled with a wood filler which is a fast-drying filler and stopper for nail holes and wood cracks. Ensure this is done before re-coating to help strengthen the wood and prevent damage spreading during the winter months.

Cleaning – Before coating any timber surface, ensure it is properly cleaned to allow the new coating to penetrate and adhere to the timber for long lasting protection. For hardwood decks that are weathered or grey, a cleaning product such as Sikkens Cetol BL Deck & Wood Cleaner 1L RRP $24.37 works quickly to rejuvenate timber by drawing out dirt and grime. For cleaning and protecting timber furniture, the Sikkens Cetol BL Garden Furniture Cleaner,1L RRP $30.73 is ideal and works quickly to revitalise and brighten timber furniture. The non-drip gel also makes it perfect for vertical surfaces such as timber fences or balustrades.

Waterproofing is key – Applying a coat to the timber deck, window and door frames, or furniture will protect surfaces against damage from moisture, mould and rot over winter.

Keep it clear
During cold and rainy months, be sure to clear away any leaves or dirt that may pile up on the deck or in between gaps in the timber to prevent mould or lingering damp, which can cause damage to timber surfaces.

Consumer enquiries: 1300 745 536 or www.sikkens.com.au

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Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

How To: Repurpose under-utilised areas in the backyard

How To: Repurpose under-utilised areas in the backyard

Make the most of the backyard by transforming forgotten areas into useful spaces. Build a veggie garden in an unused corner, convert the soggy side of your home into a beautiful feature path or bring the family together by transforming a bland backyard with a lively fire pit. There are many simple and quick fixes that any homeowner can implement to turn a forgotten backyard area into a space worth spending time in.

“It’s a waste to leave side gardens and backyard corners sitting gathering weeds – you paid good money for your land and there are clever ways to ensure you use all of it,” says Adbri Masonry brand ambassador and expert landscaper, Jason Hodges. “Areas in the backyard that are under-utilised, eye sores or those that haven’t been maintained present the opportunity to create spaces that can be used for relaxing or entertaining with friends.”

Here Jason Hodges shares some top tips on how to transform under-utilised areas:

1. Side yard pathway – There is a shady side to every house. Typically these areas receive very little sunlight and are prone to dampness. This inhibits grass from growing and means the area can turn into a mud pit every time it rains. A feature stepping stone path will not only inject aesthetic appeal but it will also ensure muddy laundries are a thing of the past. This is a great project for DIY’ers and I recommend using large format pavers to get the designer look. For added ‘wow’ factor, lay the pavers offset in a stretcher bond pattern and fill the voids with decorative stones or greenery.

How To: Repurpose under-utilised areas in the backyardImage source: Houzz

2. Fire Pit – Backyard fire pits are a great way to bring family and friends together to keep warm during the colder months. Once built, fire pits serve as an immediate feature and gathering point for your entertaining evenings. For year round functionality, use dry stack blocks like AB Courtyard which are not glued together meaning they are mobile and can be easily constructed and deconstructed as the season calls for. Or when the weather heats up, fill your fire pit with soil and start a veggie garden. These projects are so versatile.

How To: Repurpose under-utilised areas in the backyardImage source: HGTV

3. Herb and vegetable gardens – Outdoor spaces often have large walls or lengths of the boundary fence that are barren and in desperate need of revitalising. Raised garden beds in front of a fence or in the corner of a yard will create dimension and can be achieved using retaining wall blocks like Natural Impressions. Vertical gardens are also a great way to cover up large wall areas and living green walls are a trend that’s here to stay.

How To: Repurpose under-utilised areas in the backyardImage source: Nifty Homestead

4. Water Feature – Water features are a simple way to make the most of an under-utilised area. There are so many different designs and options that are perfect for small or large gardens areas so pick a style that compliments your garden. Water features add movement and a calming sound to your yard, and are the perfect finish to your outdoor retreat. Ponds are a low maintenance feature that can serve as a natural decoration and blend in nicely with garden foliage. For a smaller space opt for a bird bath, small classic fountain or a serene Asian inspired water feature. The options are endless.

How To: Repurpose under-utilised areas in the backyardImage source: Country Living

For more information on backyard DIY projects, visit www.adbrimasonry.com.au

Categories
RENO ADDICT Styling

4 reasons why you should consider wallpaper for your reno

When you think of wallpaper, the first word that springs to mind may not be ‘stylish’. In fact, it may be the exact opposite. Plenty of us have memories of the very ‘retro’ stylings of wallpaper in the 1970’s and 1980’s. Fortunately, the world of wallpaper has come full circle and the modern day interpretations offer plenty to consider for the would be renovator.

We’ve rounded up our top 4 reasons as to why you should consider wallpaper for your reno as well as plenty of colour and texture inspiration for your Pinterest board!

4 reasons why you should consider wallpaper for your reno

1. It’s incredibly durable – Wallpaper could also be known as the bulletproof wall covering. Vinyl wallpaper is made with a vinyl layer to provide additional protection from bumps, belts and blows from furniture, kids and children. Fabric backed vinyl is the most durable of the bunch, thanks to its dense backing. It’s also completely washable and will often outlast your design scheme (meaning that it may need to be replaced at some stage down the track). Fabric backed vinyl is usually best suited to living areas as its composition means that it doesn’t breathe and can hence trap water and moisture leading to mould and mildew.

4 reasons why you should consider wallpaper for your renoImage source: Brewster Wallcovering

2. It allows you to play around with colour, patterns and texture – While paint offers a huge variety of colours and finishes, it hasn’t yet mastered the technology to offer patterns and textures. Wallpaper on the other hand offers a huge range of patterns and textures which can be customised to fit your space. ‘Mixing and matching’ paint with wallpaper is the ideal way to get the best of both worlds while including an eye catching feature wall or special space.

4 reasons why you should consider wallpaper for your renoImage source: Ideal home

3. It’s on trend – Whether it’s the Pantone colour of the year (Greenery) or the latest and greatest in texture, wallpaper offers the opportunity to embrace a trend relatively quickly and easily. Take for example, cork. Cork was named as one of the ‘trends to watch’ for the cooler months (and a great way to ‘warm up your interiors‘). Integrating cork into your decor is straight forward with the new breed of cork wallpapers which are not only functional (they can be ‘pinned’ onto) but can also improve the acoustics in your home. Genius!

4 reasons why you should consider wallpaper for your renoImage source: Houzz

4. Longevity – While good quality paint will last, comparison studies have shown that wallpaper will outlast paint, with some estimates finding that it can last five times longer than paint under normal conditions. This not only means you’ll be able to ‘decorate and forget about’ but also impacts your long term budget which can be impacted by the cost of repainting every couple of years.

4 reasons why you should consider wallpaper for your renoImage source: Graham Brown

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RENO ADDICT Styling

4 ways to add warmth to your interiors this Autumn

add warmth to your interiors

It’s a fact; summer is behind us. The days are getting shorter, the nights darker and, depending on where you are in Australia, the temperature may be dropping at a rapid rate. As the weather becomes more ‘stay inside and snuggle’ than ‘day at the beach’ our interests and inspiration naturally turn towards those things that feel cosy, warm and ‘safe’. If you’re busy pinning and planning or just fancy a seasonal refresh, we’ve got plenty of quick and easy ways to add warmth and homeliness to your space, without the need to forego your favourite crisp tones or coastal knick knacks along the way.

4 ways to add warmth to your interiors this Autumn

1. Make friends with jewel tones – There’s something very ‘Autumnal’ about jewel tones. They seem to reflect the view outside the window and remind us of rustling leaves and gently burning fires. Not only does Pantone’s official colour of 2017, ‘greenery’ fit perfectly into this cosy aesthetic, its pals, deep purple, teal and even deep and dusty red (think crushed velvet) create a complimentary but mismatched palette inspired by precious stones, quartz and metals.

4 ways to add warmth to your interiors this AutumnImage source: True Local

2. Embrace earthy, warm materials – Our love of the white subway tile may not have waned but even we can admit that it’s not the ‘warmest’ option on the block. Autumn and winter are all about grounding and staying snug so it makes sense that earthy, warm materials would be in favour. Terracotta, cork, upholstery, woven products, wool and exposed brick will all reign supreme as materials of choice during the cooler months. While changing your tiling may not be the most practical option (unless you’re in the process of your reno), you can still enjoy all that these materials have to offer by utilising them in more practical ways. A cork side table, woven storage or chunk knit throw can help bring the aesthetic into your home without the need for any big changes.

4 ways to add warmth to your interiors this AutumnImage source: Homedit

3.Get in touch with touchable textures – There’s something very tactile about the cooler months. We often think of snuggly sheepskin, plush blankets and throws and all things knitted. Embracing this aesthetic can take the edge off even the coolest, most summer-centric decorating schemes. Focus on textures like velvet, wool and sheepskin to chill proof your home right through Winter.

4 ways to add warmth to your interiors this AutumnImage source: Pottery Barn

4. Sort your lighting – Nothing says ‘doom and gloom’ quite like a poorly lit room. With shorter days and darker nights, adequate lighting can go a long way in changing the vibe of your home from ‘dungeon’ to ‘cosy den’. Ensuring that you’ve replaced light bulbs is important, especially for fixtures that may not have been used much during the warmer months, as is making sure that the lighting you have in place is adequate enough to light the space you’ve installed it. Plenty of people underestimate just how many watts it will take to light their living spaces and can find that they’re in need of some extra brightness. The best way to achieve this is with floor or table lamps. Candle light is another way to help a room feel wonderfully snug and cosy though it’s best not to completely rely on candles to keep a room well lit.

4 ways to add warmth to your interiors this AutumnImage source: Barker and stone house

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DIY RENO ADDICT

The quick and easy way to restore all things metal

restore all things metal

Got a gorgeous outdoor setting that’s seen better days? Or perhaps you’ve scooped up a battered but beautiful metal planter that needs some TLC to be restored to its former glory. Restoring metal and metal products used to be a job best left to the professionals but thanks to a troupe of new products, quick and easy metal restoration projects can be completed by even the most novice DIY-er.

restore all things metalImage source: NorthJersey.com

We’ve got the scoop from the team at Hammerite on how to restore your tired old metal outdoor setting to its former glory using Hammerite Direct to Rust Metal Paint. This brand new formulation is a ‘one tin’ solution, performing as a primer, undercoat and top coat – saving time and money. Hammerite Direct to Rust also utilises DUALTECH technology which provides two way protection by repelling water and stopping rust, keeping the metal stronger for longer with up to eight years guaranteed rust protection. Quick drying and easy to use, you can restore a table and chair set in the space of 48 hours.

Here’s how:

Materials

  • Wire brush or sandpaper
  • Bucket
  • Dishwashing detergent
  • Newspaper or drop-sheet
  • Face mask
  • Hammerite Direct to Rust Metal Paint Aerosol

Method

  1. Store aerosol at room temperature for two hours prior to use.
  2. Remove rust and loose paint with a wire brush or coarse sandpaper.
  3. Using water and a diluted detergent wash down thoroughly to remove all dust, grease and dirt which may prevent the paint from sticking to the surface. Rinse with clean water.
  4. Place a drop-sheet or newspaper around the surrounding area to catch any spills or drips.
  5. Ensuring the surface is dry, test spray on a small inconspicuous area to ensure surface compatibility and finish suitability.
  6. Shake can vigorously, in a vertical motion until the agitator ball is heard and then shake for another three minutes.
  7. Apply light even coats, from a distance of approximately 15cm to 30cm and keep the aerosol moving, ensure not to concentrate spray in one spot.
  8. Apply several thin coats paying particular attention to corners and edges and allow 15 minutes between coats.
  9. Between coats (and after final use) invert can and spray for two seconds to avoid blockages.

Quick and easy!

For more information about Hammerite products call 1300 745 536 or visit www.hammerite.com.au

 

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RENO ADDICT Styling

Savvy space saving ideas for smaller properties

With more and more of us compromising space for a vibrant inner city lifestyle, it’s hard to imagine that with a few small changes to our living quarters we can not only create more space, but also a more organised way of living. “There are so many wonderful DIY space saving options out there now,”says Justine Wilson, Director and Principal Stylist at Vault Interiors. “Every home is different and so are your needs and wants, so it’s important to work out which options are within your budget and what solutions are the smartest for your home.”

Savvy space saving ideas for smaller properties

Here Justine shares her top space saving tips.

1. Seasonal Storage – Who doesn’t want a streamline immaculate wardrobe? If yours is bursting at the seams, divide your clothing and accessories into seasons. Just pack away and rotate when required. Space bags, shoe storage boxes and under bed storage boxes are all quick, easy and affordable ways to do this.

2. Multifunctional Furniture – Investing in multifunctional furniture is one of the smartest ways to free up more space. Beds and ottomans with storage are the most common and easiest to find. The IKEA Malm bed offers four drawers of storage and an optional bedhead with shelving for books or accessories.

space saving ideasImage source: IKEA

3. Dual Purpose Spaces – Try converting a spare bedroom into both a study area and guest room by using a sofa bed instead of a traditional bed is one great idea. In the past, finding a sofa bed was limiting, however you no longer have to compromise on style as there are many well designed sofa bed options available.

4. Smart Storage – Joinery is a significant way to change the way you live and has endless possibilities when it comes to storage. Unused areas can be transformed into functional storage spaces with only a small amount of work, e.g. bench seating built under windows or storage under the staircase. Somethings require a little more time and money but we think the result is definitely worthwhile!

space saving ideasImage source: Copygeneral USA

5. Think Vertical – Why not use walls to create space? Pegboards are flexible and fun and can be used for both practical and display purposes. Regardless of whether you’re hanging cleaning essentials or an ornament arrangement, you can add colour and life to your walls with only a small amount of effort.

6. Floating Furniture – Floating shelves are a light, open and seamless way to display items. We love to utilise perspex or glass box shelving to create a sophisticated and interesting way to showcase items you may not have room to display. These can be stagnant or can act as changing artworks within your home.

space saving ideasImage source: Pinterest

For more information about Vault interiors, visit www.vaultinteriors.com.au

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Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

How To: Revitalise exterior timber in a weekend

How To: Revitalise exterior timber in a weekend

Exterior timber in need of some TLC? Fear not, it doesn’t need to be a massive hassle. It is a common misconception that re-coating a stained timber deck will hide everything. According to Anthony Scott of Channel 10’s DIY program The Home Team, re-coating instead of cleaning first, is more likely to highlight the stains, trapping them and making the timber look worse than it was.

How To: Revitalise exterior timber in a weekend

Revitalising a timber deck to protect it over the coming cold and wet winter months can be a simple weekend project when using a specific cleaning program that removes stains properly and rejuvenates the natural beauty of timber. “Having a timber deck helps frame the home as well as adding a soft touch to the front or backyard,” says Anthony. “However, a grey weathered deck will do just the opposite. Sikkens provides a quick and easy solution to remove dirt and grime from timber, leaving it fresh and in its natural raw timber state. The Sikkens Cetol BL Deck and Wood Cleaner is a fast acting gel that only takes 15 minutes to revitalise and brighten grey and weathered timber.”

In some instances, the existing coating may be peeling, flaking or have a different product to the new coating, for example if the existing is an oil based coating and the new coating is water based. If this is the case, it will be necessary to strip back and sand the timber before applying a new coat.

How To: Revitalise exterior timber in a weekend

Once the timber is clean and dry, and the surface ready for a new coat, Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro is a water based coating that can be re-applied within two hours. Providing superior durability and flexibility, with quick drying properties, Cetol BLX-Pro is available in five ready mixed stains and will provide a high-quality, transparent finish that accentuates the natural characteristics and colour of the timber.

For more information visit the Sikkens Australia YouTube channel or www.sikkens.com.au

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House Tours Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real Reno: Point Cook DIY reno on a budget

There are plenty of ways to describe today’s ‘Real Reno‘ but a ‘labour of love’ is probably one of the best. When Marsha and Frank purchased their 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom house in Point Cook, VIC, they could see that the property was ‘liveable’ but in need of some serious TLC.  “The house was livable,” says Marsha “but the finishes were cheap and ugly. Even down to the 80m2 of yellowish floor tiles! It was easy to see the potential, we are good at visualizing spaces and layouts.”

After purchasing the property in 2013, the couple pulled together what was initially a 5 year plan to work towards completing all the necessary renos, taking on the bulk of them themselves. “We like to do things ourselves, says Marsha “as it saves money, we absolutely love seeing the transformation and it is so satisfying knowing that we have done it all ourselves.”

Real Reno: Point Cook DIY reno on a budgetBefore – Kitchen

One of the primary ways the couple make the renovation experience survivable is by working on the critical elements, that they know will make the process more comfortable, first. “It’s why we made the kitchen ultra deluxe,” explains Marsha, “to enjoy for the time we are there as we knew it would take a while to DIY most of the house, so the idea was for live-in but ultimately add value and sell at a profit.”

The couple have exceeded their expectations, with renovations tipped to be completed by September this year at a grand total cost of around $50,000. Being that the list of updates, when completed, will include 80m2 of floor tiling, a new kitchen, new main bathroom, new ensuite, wall partitions to close off the second lounge into larger master bedroom, whole house paint job, rear deck, front timber boardwalk, rear paving and the opening up of a separate dining-lounge area, the price tag is pretty darn impressive.

Real Reno: Point Cook DIY reno on a budget

How did they manage such extensive renovations on such a shoestring? DIY. That includes tiling the entire house themselves, an experience that involved demolishing the existing tiles and laying 80m2 of 600X600 porcelain tiles. “It took a long time,” Marsha says, “but the results are great though we probably would not tile an entire house again, unless it was our forever home!” Marsha and Frank also made the timber waterfall benchtop with recycled Victorian Ash that was hand selected from a salvage yard in Bulleen, VIC. The total cost was under $300. The feeling of creating something so beautiful? Priceless!

Real Reno: Point Cook DIY reno on a budget After – KitchenReal Reno: Point Cook DIY reno on a budgetAfter – Kitchen

Advice the couple has for would be DIY renovators? “Plan ahead!” says the couple. “Decide if it’s for long term living for yourself or for a flip and budget accordingly. Don’t be scared to DIY as even some of the bigger stuff is possible with the help of some tools and YouTube!”

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DIY RENO ADDICT

6 quick and easy home updates for the long weekend

With the Easter long weekend fast approaching (hip, hip, hooray) there’s no better time to schedule in some quality home reno time. We’re sure you’re not short on ideas for the ‘to-do’ list but just in case you’re on the hunt for inspiration, check out these 6 quick and easy home updates we’ve compiled, thanks to Caroma, which you can tackle in the four days you’ll have away from the office.

6 quick and easy home updates for the long weekend

1. Change the vanity or basin – This is one of the easiest ways to give your bathroom an upgrade and it can be done in one weekend. It’s true; you can never have enough storage – especially in a bathroom – so think about ways to increase it with a new bathroom vanity or basin. If you’re going for a larger unit, measure your entire space to ensure you have enough room for the vanity itself and its installation. Keeping your vanity in its existing position means you shouldn’t have to spend money on having your plumbing repositioned.

6 quick and easy home updates for the long weekendImage source: Caroma

2. Get painting – For a low-cost, high-impact update, grab a pot of paint in a striking colour and turn a plain wall into a show-stopping, statement wall that will never be overlooked again. Tip: use painter’s tape to keep your ceilings and doors smudge free.

3. Change fittings – An easy way to get that modern look around the home is to make small changes with styles that are on trend at the moment. Introduce warming tones, crisp lines and statement features, by changing the tapware or showerhead to create an elegant and contemporary finish. Consider a bold statement with a matte black tap or bronze shower head with a contrasting background.

6 quick and easy home updates for the long weekendImage source: House Of Home

4. Restore grout – A top-to-bottom clean and declutter is one of the most powerful ways to refresh a bathroom. However, no amount of cleaning will fix stained, discoloured grout. Fortunately, grout pens exist and you can choose white for a just-like-new look or totally change the look of your white tiled walls by using a black grout pen.

5. Add new lighting – New light fixtures are an easy way to change the way the rooms in your home look, without all the hassle of completely redecorating. While you’re replacing the existing fixture, update the bulbs you’re using as well. Energy saving lamps can help the rooms look brighter and help you save money. Sounds like a good trade-off for a weekend’s worth of work, doesn’t it?

6 quick and easy home updates for the long weekendImage source: Home Designing

6. Introduce some stand out accessories – Be bold and bring some unexpected home accessories into your bathroom. A woven rug, a healthy plant or even multiple mirrors. Or why not go all out and add some artwork?

To find out more about the Caroma range, please visit www.caroma.com.au or call 13 14 16.

 

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House Tours Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real Reno: Tighes Hill rapid renovation

Today we are super excited to bring you another rapid reno from our rapid renovation expert, Naomi Findlay. This Tighes Hill rapid renovation was undertaken in less than two months for the grand total sum of $166,200.

Tighes Hill rapid renovationBefore – Front of house

Tighes Hill rapid renovationAfter – Front of house 

This original gun barrel timber and clad cottage was in need of a full makeover, largely thanks to the floor plan which Naomi described as ‘tricky’. Purchased for $366,000 (and eventually sold for $575,000)  the small, poky rooms and a lack of flow meant that the cottage had potential but wouldn’t be suitable as a family home, without some renovations.

To improve the potential of the house, Naomi added space where necessary and while also redefining the boundaries of some rooms to improve the balance and flow of the home.

The reinstated original front verandah, extra bedroom and study nook added much needed space and functionality to the floor plan while the redesign of the dining room helped to shift more space into the existing bathroom, providing enough room for the installation of a wet room. A new, enclosed garage was also added.

Tighes Hill rapid renovationAfter – bedroom

Tighes Hill rapid renovationAfter – Bathroom

The biggest challenge Naomi faced? Trying to achieve balance between the bedrooms and living space along with the small issue of the back half of the house being pulled over by the original chimney. Fortunately both were issues that were able to be fixed with some savvy building work.

Tighes Hill rapid renovation Before – Living area

Tighes Hill rapid renovationAfter – Living area

Discovering that half your reno property is being led astray by a period feature just reinforced to Naomi how important it is to “expect the unexpected” when renovating, especially when renovating older properties. Her best advice for would be rapid renovators? “View the surprises these amazing old homes have as gifts as opposed to pains in the behind!”

Tighes Hill rapid renovation After – Dining area

Tighes Hill rapid renovationAfter – kitchen

For more Real Renos, check out our archives

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Interiors Addict

DIY: Brand new Annie Sloan gilding waxes for your next project

Beloved by DIY enthusiasts across the globe, paint queen Annie Sloan returns this month with a brand spanking new product range and this time the focus is squarely on metallics. Unlike her crazily popular Chalk Paints (that, rather amazingly, allow you to repaint old wooden furniture without having to pick up a sander!), this new range, called Gilding Waxes, is designed to add a metallic touch to your painted furniture or decorative pieces with a minimum of fuss. And with metallics still such a strong look on the interiors scene, we’re predicting this fabulous range will be a big hit!

The gilding waxes are ideal for creating that worn-in look

“I’m so excited about the launch of these new waxes. Gilding Waxes are quite different to gilding leaf and leaf has a harder and shinier look to it. Waxes like these have a much softer look and one that really subtly brings out a gilded effect,” says Annie, who has over 1,500 stockists across the globe.

They gilding waxes also work well when used in small, subtle amounts too

With five fabulous shades (warm gold, bright gold, dark silver, bright silver and copper), upcycling enthusiasts will be rather giddy about the endless possibilities that await them with this fun collection. “They come in a small tube, but this tube goes a long way! I can’t wait to see what people create,” says Annie.

A lamp revamped with the waxes in a variety of shades

Perfect for DIY projects, you can also apply the wax to ornate carvings and mouldings to enhance texture and detailing throughout the home. Alternatively, you can also decorate with gilded shapes, lines and designs using an Annie Sloan stencil (or even your own!).

Annie Sloan Gilding Wax tubes, $14 each.

Shop online.