Our bathrooms play a vital role in our daily lives; they help invigorate us in the morning, and wind us down in the evening. This space should never be neglected and has so much more potential than just functioning as a practical place. What’s more, through small changes, it can be transformed into a refuge of relaxation and recuperation that doesn’t have to result in extortionate bills.
In 2018, the average cost of a major bathroom renovation in Australia was $17, 522, however this cost is due to varying factors and can fluctuate depending on your circumstances and needs. While a renovated bathroom can add nearly $20,000 to the value of your home, a few cosmetic changes and DIY jobs are really all it takes to get the luxe bathroom you’ve been dreaming of. Today, Methven’s group head of design and innovation, Andy Grigor, explains how.
Update your shower and tapware
Showers and tapware can define the theme of your bathroom. Combined with functionality, choosing a shower and tapware that looks stunning will transform your bathroom into a room you can’t wait to use.
Firstly, gather options together, take your time and do your research. Create a mood board or a scrapbook of design ideas and products. Then go and find those (or similar) products on display so you can feel the quality and get a sense of how the product feels as you use it.
“By simply replacing your tapware and shower you will transform the feeling of your bathroom. Remove the old and replace with matte black, for instance, for a modern look,” says Andy.
Methven’s Aio shower twin system in matte black
A lick of paint never hurt anyone If the budget is tight, there are some very simple aesthetic changes you can make to immediately upgrade your bathroom. Painting your tiles may sound strange but it is a very cost effective and simple way to completely and quickly refresh your bathroom. There are many tile paints available if you like to DIY, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
“Opt for light colours such as tonal aqua to make the room feel bright or more spacious offering a serene and refreshing ambience, or select a deep colour such as emerald green for a dramatic and modern finish that encourages nurture and regeneration,” says Andy.
This bathroom was overhauled for just $2000 by The Painted Hive and tile paint was key
Replace your vanity
Removing your old vanity and replacing it with a new one will instantly make your bathroom feel like it’s had a full renovation. A wall mounted floating vanity will also open up the feel of a small bathroom space by adding more floor area.
However, if your budget doesn’t allow for a purchase of a new vanity, then look for ways to repurpose your old one or even an existing piece of furniture. Keep in mind the size of the area and the plumbing needs.
Jen’s new bathroom features an Ingrain Designs wall-hung vanity that gives the room a fabulous sense of space. Pic by Jacqui Turk.
Sometimes the simplest tasks are the most rewarding
“You can renew your bathroom and give a sense of a complete upgrade, just by re-grouting your tiles. If your tiles are still in good condition, they may simply need to be re-grouted in order to make them seem brand new again and brighten your bathroom, as discolouration can show the bathroom’s age,” says Andy.
Add a spa-like touch Decluttering your bathroom and adding storage where possible is key. Once you have a fresh canvas, adding little accessories, a few baskets for towels, fancy soaps and decorative accents is a great way to add your personal touch. Incorporate plants and create your own indoor oasis, which will all contribute to the overall look of your ‘home spa’.
Here Methven tapware is nicely accessorised for a spa-like feel
Unless you’ve undertaken a kitchen renovation, it can be difficult to understand just how many steps are involved, and just how long they take. But this is where the experts come in and today, interior designer Sarah Nolen, of Birdblack Design, gives us an in-depth look at what to expect.
A recent Birdblack Design kitchen. Photography: The Palm Co
First steps The first port of call when looking to renovate, or build, is to determine your inspiration and preferred styles. Scrolling through Instagram, scouring website galleries and perusing interior designer YouTube channels can assist in discovery. Some basic questions may be: What colours do you like? Are you after a sleek, contemporary kitchen, or a traditional ornate Hampton’s inspired kitchen? Or, do you prefer a fusion of styles?
It is important to highlight likes and dislikes as this will come in handy later on when you think about functionality and practicality. Another trick of the trade is to consider storage requirements – structure and organisation can make your dream home a reality!
A Birdblack Design kitchen renovation
Sourcing an interior designer Like any other profession, interior designers are required to study in order to gain qualifications. Their profound knowledge and industry experience are not to be equated with reading kitchen renovation articles every weekend.
As qualified professionals, interior designers are going to be able to advise you in many ways. They will provide answers for questions you haven’t even thought of before; they will have a wealth of experience under their belt in terms of spatial planning, entrances, wasted spaces, dead corners and creating functionality. Their creativity and knowledge will be well utilised in ticking off wish-list items, sourcing quality materials, and creating cohesion across your space in terms of textures, pattern and colour. By engaging a professional designer, you are guaranteed minimal surprises and a final result that you adore.
The relationship between a client and interior designer can be quite intimate – after all, you are inviting them into your home and into your mind, so that the result will be a true reflection of you and your personality. After all, you will be the one living there, after the job is done! Find a designer you click with – you will be spending a decent amount of time in communication and on-site together. Trust is imperative between designer and client.
Be sure to check their portfolio and social media to ensure they produce the standard and style you are after.
Helpful hint: Meet with your interior designer prior to signing up, simply to familiarise yourself with the design process.
This Birdblack Design kitchen renovation included window seating to take in the coastal view. Photography: The Evoke Company
Client briefing/site measure Every interior design firm will have different processes. There should always be a client briefing. It’s in this first briefing that the overall style will be identified. Your designer should ask a list of detailed questions, ensuring all the client’s needs are met and every detail is considered at this very first brief.
A site measure should be undertaken for renovation projects. Your designer should take note of surrounding rooms. More often than not, a simple wall change could result in more functional space without compromising the overall home layout.
Spatial planning/elevation detailing Interior designers are experts at spatial planning. Oftentimes, new and fresh layouts are presented to clients, broadening their horizons for what can actually happen within their home. Once clients have settled on a particular layout, elevation detailing takes place, including custom joinery design.
Finishes, fixtures & fittings selection Shopping! Woo-hoo! The next step is taking excursions to showrooms and suppliers in order to select your tiles, tapware, handles and joinery finishes. This process can often be overwhelming when there is no guidance, though the process can be exhilarating with a professional by your side, guiding the shopping expedition for overall cohesion and continuity.
Final detailing of drawing and selections schedule After shopping decisions are complete, all the selections are scheduled in and final drawings are confirmed. This is essential as it will be these final drawings that the builder and all the tradespeople will work from. Accuracy and precision are paramount.
Select a builder/project manager & lock them in Now that all your documentation is ready for quoting, make contact with builders and project managers. Together, consider the works you are requiring to be undertaken.
As interior designers, we completely take care of this stage for you. Working with tradespeople daily allows your designer to select the best fit in terms of builder and tradies for your individual project. As they say, sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know. In our case, though, it’s both!
Demolition
First on your builder’s agenda is to inspect the existing space and determine what materials it was built from. During demolition, the installation of structural beams to support wall changes or new windows will also take place. Of course, the timing of this will vary, depending on the scope of the work involved.
The demolition process can be rather anxiety-provoking!
Plumbers & electricians ‘rough in’
Once the bare structure is established by the builder, your plumbers and electricians can get involved. They will begin their ‘rough in’ of the plumbing points in the walls and floor, and the wiring for the electrical work.
Sheeting
The walls and ceiling are ready for sheeting and this process commences.
Flooring
What did you decide regarding flooring? Are you going ahead with new flooring or is your existing flooring experiencing a new start in life?
Joinery measure
Once all your walls are sheeted, your joiner will be ready for the on-site measure. This step is crucial in the joinery process. During construction, dimensions slightly change in comparison to drafted drawings. Keep in mind the difference between a drawing and real life. Every millimetre counts!
Joinery installation
After a few weeks of manufacturing in the workshop, your brand-new kitchen is ready for installation. This may take multiple days, depending on the size of your kitchen and the availability of your joinery company. Your kitchen will now look like a kitchen!
Joinery installation
Benchtop measure
Once your joinery has been installed, now is the time for a benchtop measure. Likewise with the joinery measure, every millimetre is crucial. Whether you have opted for stone, concrete, or terrazzo, all surfaces require measuring. The final locations of stone joins require confirmation. The last thing you want in your brand new kitchen is a stone join which unpleasantly draws the eye!
Benchtop installation
Hurrah! The installation of benchtops is a nail-biting process to watch! The details and precision are impeccable.
Splashback tiling (if required)
When tiling splashbacks, be certain your grout colour suits your tile selection. The wrong grout colour has the ability to change the overall look of the tile.
Electrical & plumbing ‘fit off’
It is all starting to come together! With the connection of GPO’s, appliances and lights come to life. Additionally, you now have running water and gas!
Painting
The final layer: the colours you chose! This will include all your walls, ceilings, doors and trims.
With all this in place, is time to invite your family and friends over and time to get cooking. Enjoy!
Often overlooked when it comes to spring cleaning, the kitchen is one of those household spaces that could really use reorganising on the regular. From rearranging the pantry to simplifying your drawers and sorting out the mess that is the space beneath the sink, we caught up with Freedom Kitchens for their step-by-step advice on how to overhaul your kitchen this spring.
Organise your pantry
As one of the hardest working parts of your kitchen, the pantry (whether a butler’s or simple single unit) is often one of the first spaces to become disorganised and overwhelming. If every time you open your pantry door something falls out (we’re looking at you Tupperware containers!), or you spend what seems like a lifetime trying to find that pasta sauce you need for tonight’s dinner, now is the perfect time to transform your pantry into one of your favourite kitchen spaces.
A rather serene looking pantry
Step 1: Remove everything from your pantry. Throw out anything that is out of date and group the rest into ‘like’ items. Store tinned items together, then flours, sugars, pasta and rices, oils and sauces, herbs and spices and so forth. This allows you to find a given food item within your pantry quickly and easily.
Step 2: Clean the pantry shelves and internals.
Step 3: If beautiful, matching, clear containers and pretty labels are your jam, now is the time to place all items in them, keeping all like items together of course!
Step 4: Strategically place items back into the pantry. Keep go-to items at eye level (such as cereals, pasta, and other cooking staples) while placing treats and baking items up high on top shelves (out of sight, out of mind yes?!) and small appliances at the lower levels.
Step 5: Step back and admire your pantry! Oh, and try to repeat this process at least every six months so that it remains an organised masterpiece.
Hot tip: If you have children, consider placing healthy snacks on the bottom level so they can select items themselves with easy access. Also, it’s best to put small appliances up high and out of harm’s way.
Freedom Kitchens’ pull-out pantry drawers
Simplify your drawers A simple and effective way to spring clean your kitchen is to tidy your drawers containing cutlery and utensils. Afterall, how many wooden spoons does one kitchen really need?
Step 1: Take everything out of your cutlery and utensil drawers. Keep all like items together.
Step 2: Put aside any duplicate utensils. Do you need all ten wooden spoons or whisks? If not, consider donating them to a charity or daycare/school. The same applies to any damaged or mismatching cutlery. The more edited your collection, the easier it will be to store.
Step 3: Wipe and clean out empty drawers.
Step 4: Put all the items back into the drawers.
Freedom Kitchens has a great range of cutlery trays with adjustable dividing elements
The unexpected hero: Tidy under your kitchen sink Another area of the kitchen, that can be your best friend or enemy, is the area under the kitchen sink. Ensure it’s the former by throwing out anything that you don’t use, or have duplicates of, and then group all like items together.
Consider space savvy storage solutions such as specially designed pull-out racks, or an under-sink drawer to make this organisation even easier. From cleaning products to brushes, gloves and sponges, this makes it much easier for you to find your cleaning essentials.
They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home and it’s very much the case with this Brisbane design by Judy Parkin of Interior Blank. Recently named a finalist in the prestigious KBDI (Kitchen and Bathroom Design Institute) Awards in the ‘Kitchens Plus’ category (for kitchens that flow into another living area), this statement space sits seamlessly between the home’s dining and lounge areas and unites all three.
“The client wanted a unique look that stood out. They wanted a kitchen with wow-factor and one that was designed for home entertainment and also to be the focal point of the entire home. We also needed to create a flow between the living areas and the kitchen,” says Judy. Key to integrating the kitchen with the ‘rooms’ around it is the way in which it complements the nearby fireplace – matching natural marble marries the spaces.
The nearby fireplace and lounge room
“It wasn’t to be a feminine looking kitchen and neutral colours were preferred, but not white,” says Judy of the finishes that include fingerprint-proof matte black and polished timber veneer cabinetry as well as natural marble and Neolith stone bench tops. I think this kitchen proves that white isn’t the only ‘safe’ neutral choice.
Judy designed discrete zones for cooking, food preparation, food storage and coffee making with easy access to the kitchen’s integrated fridge. The complementary butler’s pantry sits behind the main space and it houses an extra sink plus coffee machine and storage.
The butler’s pantry sits behind the kitchen
“In an open plan space, I think traffic flow is one of the most important points to consider. Not only in the kitchen itself, but in the other surrounding rooms. You want to make sure that you have planned enough space and considered the positioning of the appliances. Also, you must ensure there is enough space to walk past if someone is at the fridge and when the oven and dishwasher doors are open too,” says Judy.
The concealed fridge sits to the left of the Gaggenau appliances
The kitchen is also home to an enviable line-up of Gaggenau appliances (conventional oven, combination steam oven and warming drawer) plus Judy selected Pitt gas burners for the benchtop – a unique range that can be used with granite, composite stone, concrete, stainless steel and more. “I selected the Pitt cooking gas burners as I loved that they were directly integrated into the worktop for a seamless look,” says Judy.
The spacing of the Pitt gas burners means four large pots can be used at once which is ideal for entertaining
Possibly not something you’d immediately consider but ventilation is also very important when designing an open-plan kitchen as cooking smells can easily move between the spaces. “Select your ventilation option so that it is adequate for the room’s size and the type of cooking you do,” says Judy. In this kitchen, Judy designed the large extraction system (to accommodate the large widely spaced gas burners) before the home was built and it pulls air into the ceiling cavity and out of the adjacent external wall.
Kitchen aside, there’s no denying the laundry is one of the most integral parts of any home. And with space increasingly at a premium (apartment and townhouse living is becoming the norm in many cities), it really pays to make the laundry as smartly designed as possible.Not only will clever design and the right set of appliances make the space more efficient and enjoyable to use, but it will also reduce the time you spend doing laundry which sounds like a win in our books!
From making the best use of vertical space to integrating appliances, here Victorian appliance retailer e&s shares its top five solutions for making the most out of a petite sized laundry.
Consider washer & dryer placement
Side by side washer and dryers are more accessible and generally larger, while stacking your appliances has great space saving capabilities. If you aren’t certain on your layout, opt for front loaders over top loaders, as they can be stacked or installed under an existing bench, making more room for a folding station.
Maximise vertical space and use open shelving Include overhead storage and a wall mounted ironing board so it’s out of the way when you don’t need it. A suspended drying rack utilises ceiling space that would otherwise go unused. Open shelving along with storage boxes and baskets make for an open, airy aesthetic. Cane or wicker baskets are durable, have great storage capacity, and can hide away cleaning products or dirty clothing from sight.
Use the back of the laundry door for storage An over-the-door ironing board is an effective and practical solution when your laundry is lacking storage and floor space. Lighter and less fiddly than traditional ironing boards, over-the-door ironing boards are affordable, space-saving, and always conveniently hidden out of view when you aren’t using them. Mops and brooms can also be hung in over-the-door holders when space is tight.
Integrated cabinetry for appliances and storage
If you don’t have a dedicated laundry room at all, integrated cabinetry ensures appliances and products are all tucked out of the way and out of sight when you have people over.
Save space with a washer-dryer combo If you don’t have room for a standalone dryer, consider a washer-dryer combo. It’s perfect for homes without a dedicated laundry room, doing the job of two appliances, while taking up the footprint of one.
As the former editor of both Belle and Vogue Living magazines, a seasoned judge on The Block and co-host of Love It or List It, it’s safe to assume that Neale Whitaker knows a thing or two about kitchen design. So, when we heard he was renovating the kitchen in his own home, a late 1930’s country property on the NSW south coast, we couldn’t wait to take a look and glean some design know-how too. Today, we’re sharing Neale’s top 10 kitchen design tips.
Neale Whitaker in his newly renovated kitchen
1. Establish your budget
“Let’s get the boring-but-important one out of the way first. Kitchens are expensive and can easily run away with the budget, so it’s absolutely vital to decide upfront what you can afford to spend and keep a contingency of around 25 percent in reserve if possible,” says Neale.
2. What kind of kitchen user are you?
“Be honest and realistic about what you require of your kitchen. Is this a family kitchen? Do you love to entertain? Or are you a microwave-and-home-delivery type of cook? There are so many sleek and desirable kitchen gadgets available these days, but there’s no point installing a teppanyaki grill unless you really plan to use it.”
3. Location
“Your budget will determine the scope of your kitchen design – are you relocating or working within the existing kitchen space? You should also consider the best use of space and light. Do you have enough of each. A kitchen that opens to the outdoors is often the ideal in Australia, but if that’s not possible consider the orientation of workspaces and appliances in relation to available light, access to other areas of the home and, where appropriate, the view.”
4. Ignore the latest trends
“Kitchens should have a lifespan of at least ten years. Trend-driven kitchens are likely to date more quickly. Choose benchtops, cabinetry, splash backs and appliances that will stand the test of time. Trend details can always be added through artwork, lighting, bar stools and cookware. Some people prefer their kitchen to work with their overall decor while others like the kitchen to add a modern contrast.”
5. Upcycling potential
“If you’re updating an existing kitchen, think about what can be recycled. Do you actually need to replace everything? And can you work with the existing layout? Sometimes a change of benchtop and some new cabinetry is all that’s required. Think too about whether you prefer to cook with gas or induction. My own kitchen features both to suit everyday cooking and entertaining.”
The kitchen island bench is the hub of Neale’s home
6. The island bench
“If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then the island bench is the heart of the kitchen. Its size, position and design is vital. In my home, the island bench is used for food preparation, cooking, dining, dishwashing, storage, chatting, watching TV, listening to music – it’s where life happens. Choose a bench top that is as practical and hardwearing as it is great-looking and good to the touch. Our choice of Silestone Calacatta Gold in Suede was perfect for our lifestyle and aesthetic.”
A detail shot of Neale’s Silestone Calacatta Gold bench top in Suede
7. The kitchen triangle
“It sounds old-fashioned but the ‘kitchen triangle’ is still important to good, functional kitchen design- the relationship and distance between fridge, sink and cooktop. Common sense dictates that they should be within easy reach of each other. It’s as true now as it was decades ago when the term was first coined.”
8. Butler’s pantry
“It’s a sign of the times that a butler’s pantry is a point on its own. Do you need one? Do you have room for one? There’s no doubt that an extra kitchen space offers great additional storage and a home for secondary kitchen appliances like microwaves, toasters, kettles and wine fridges. I have also seen butler’s pantries combined very effectively and efficiently with laundries.”
Neale’s new kitchen features a butler’s pantry behind
9. Colour
“Colour is an increasingly important consideration. Once upon a time the choice was white, white or white. Contemporary kitchens feature cabinetry, splash backs and benchtops that range from black, through midnight blue to primary colours and pastels. In my opinion a neutral colour scheme gives a kitchen longevity. Neutral needn’t mean boring though. My own kitchen features pale grey cabinetry, white splashbacks, brass tapware and suede-finish bench tops with a fine, marble-like vein. It feels glamorous and layered but timeless.”
10. The finer details
“The kitchen devil really is in the detail. Think about adequate storage, both task and mood lighting, position and quantity of power points and the height of benchtops and bar stools. Do you prefer handles or soft-close drawers and cupboards? Integrated appliances? Open-fronted or closed cabinetry? These are the details that will dictate the convenience and functionality of your kitchen, so it’s worth investing time and thought at the outset.”
With over 20 years’ design experience behind her, Shaynna Blaze needs little introduction. We asked the award-winning interior designer and The Block judge, to share some of her best tips for updating your kitchen and bathroom.
Know your reason
The kitchen is the heart of the home, but the bathroom is now an oasis. There has been a big movement towards having beautiful bathrooms and laundries. Upgrading these rooms can also get expensive very quickly, so it is important to know the reason behind your renovation.
“It’s not just about the kitchen anymore. When you’re spending a lot of money on fixtures such as stone and cabinetry in more than one room, you need think about why you are renovating,” says Shaynna. “Are you renovating to add value, or is this your forever home? Knowing the answer will mean the difference between adding a simple stone overlay and building from the ground up.”
Picture the space in use
We all know the importance of the working triangle in the kitchen, but what else do you use your kitchen for? If you love to cook with a whole bunch of different kitchen gadgets, then you need to allocate bench space and cabinetry for them. If your kitchen doubles as a home office space you could have drawers designated for paperwork.
“Everybody has their own lifestyle, and the kitchen has evolved beyond a simple room for preparing food. Is yours a social stop for people while you are cooking? Is this where your kids do their homework? You need to think about how the layout works with these other elements.”
Use lasting trends, not fads
When picking style trends, keep in mind that kitchens and bathrooms should last between five to 10 years. Look at the big picture, and go for trends that are long term and functional.
“Stone and marble benchtops are going to be around for years to come. When picking your cabinetry colours, make sure you are happy to live with them for the next 10 years. Otherwise, use overhead lighting to spruce up the space – it’s cheaper and easier to change later down the track.”
When it comes to bathrooms, don’t be afraid to go bold. “All white tiles are beautiful but boring. Think Moroccan, Art Deco, Art Nouveau – it’s all about capturing that ‘boutique hotel experience’.”
Shaynna also suggests staying away from the current (over)use of black and rose gold, as well as the industrial vintage trend. Opt for gunmetal or aged brass tapware instead. “Rose gold is one of those things that you wouldn’t put in unless you absolutely love it. If it’s your signature style then go for it. Very strong colours like green and navy will definitely be in for a while, but make sure you love them before using them in your kitchen or bathroom refresh.”
Stick to your budget
Whatever your budget, it is possible to upgrade your kitchen and bathroom in style. Shaynna suggests upgrading the look and the feel of a space when renovating on a budget. Changing the layout of the kitchen will push costs up, so be sure to keep plumbing and wiring in the same place.
“Focus on the things people touch the most. Overlay your benchtop with stone; change the position of the sink; repaint your doors; and choose good quality handles. These things will add instant value with minimum fuss.”
If you are working from the ground up, think carefully about your appliances. “People look at brands all the time and want everything to match. This can be a surefire way to blow your budget. Take a look at what you use the most and splurge on that, while opting for something a little down the budget line for the rest.”
The same thing applies to the bathroom; like the handles in the kitchen, tapware should be your priority. “A stone benchtop with a basic laminate underneath will work wonders. Have one feature tile wall and use budget tiles for the other areas. Or you could also just tile the wet area rather than all the walls to save money.”
Shaynna’s newest role sees her as a brand ambassador for Granite Transformations. Her favourite products include their unique tiles and the new Marble Collection which has all the beauty of marble with the added benefit of being heat resistant and non-porous. “Granite Transformations enable renovators to revamp their kitchen and bathroom by working with the existing surfaces and cabinets, for a proportion of the cost of a complete demolition and rebuild.”
If there’s one room in the home that should be uber functional, it’s the kitchen. Organised storage and easy accessibility to cooking ingredients and implements are key but given there is so much whizz-bangery available these days, we asked interior designer Darren Palmer to reveal his favourite kitchen storage solutions.
“I’m a sucker for anything that has a surprise built into it. Think James Bond’s cars and watches, there was always something neat tucked away to get him out of bind or even just to give him the advantage. I know it’s a long bow to draw but it’s the same with the cool storage solutions we see in kitchens these days. Anything that pops up, sweeps open, swooshes up or spins around to reveal some cool hidden storage just gets my heart racing. It’s nerdy I know,” says Darren.
Drawers & cupboards Great storage is absolutely essential so when designing a kitchen from scratch consider what you already own (create a checklist) and then allow room for future purchases (Darren recommends 15-20 per cent). “This will not only ensure you have a place for everything but it will also allow you to decide when to use drawers and when cupboards may be more suitable. For example, deep drawers ensure that everything is visible and reachable however may not be suitable for larger appliances,” says Darren.
A massive fan of the island bench, Darren loves them chiefly for their entertaining and storage aspects. “Choose from a variety of design options to suit your space, needs and style. If you love to entertain, introduce an overhang for dining with space for stools at the front or sides and add storage at the back of the island. Alternatively, you can choose to design the back with deep storage and leave the front as a feature or double up with storage on both sides. You may also like to consider introducing wine fridges, wine racks, and appliances such as dishwashers and/or microwaves to your island bench to create more storage space on your back benches,” says Darren.
The pantry “Whether built-in, butler’s, walk-in, or a combination; a well-conceived and designed pantry can transform the way that you organise and use your kitchen,” says Darren. Even better is a walk-in or butler’s pantry which is an excellent solution when entertaining – like a toy room, you can simply close the door on the mess when your guests arrive. Many of us are tight on space though and this is where a pull-out pantry comes into its own.
Pull-out pantry
Lose the dead space The corner cupboard used to be a dead space but there are lots of fabulous design solutions that ensure this is no longer the case. “One of my favourite space savers is Hettich’s Le Man Blind Corner Shelf System. Made up of two kidney shaped shelves which can hold up to 20 kilograms of items each, this system transforms a full cabinet depth void into a highly functional space, perfect for storing essentials like pots and pans in an otherwise blind corner,” says Darren.
Maximise your corner cupboard space
Internal organisation From spice racks and drawers to knife holders, towel rails and adjustable drawer dividers, there are so many internal organisers available that will optimise your kitchen space and make it so much more efficient. “Remember every single void area is an opportunity for storage. Kitchens are made more functional, effective, efficient and even beautiful by specifying a higher level of internal fittings,” says Darren.
Visit Freedom Kitchens for more kitchen inspiration or to book a free appointment with one of their designers.
Whether you’re looking to create a feature zone for dining or entertaining, complete a poolside area or build a garden path, pavers are a clever and effective way to make the best use of any space, and they’re a lot easier to lay than many people think. Time-poor homeowners are looking for practical ways to bring the family together while showcasing their individuality and personal style and DIY pavers fit this bill perfectly.
Here, are my step-by-step instructions for tackling any paving job.
1. Excavation
Mark out the area to be paved allowing a little extra for working room. Remove any soil, grass and all loose debris and vegetation and ensure to excavate deep enough to allow for selected paving and sub base construction. For pedestrian paving projects, you can work off 100mm of road base, 30mm of sand plus the thickness of your paver. (This is not applicable for driveway paving).
2. Preparing the base
It’s all about the base! Getting the foundation right is the key to your long-lasting and low maintenance paved area. Start by distributing road base evenly over the excavated area. Compact the road base with a plate compactor (whacker-packer) at least twice – remember your hearing protection for this part of the job. Spread washed sand over the compacted road base to a thickness of 25-to-30mm. Screed the sand with a timber float or straight edge and ensure it is on the same plane – check with a spirit level.
3. Laying the pavers
Set up a string line running along the edge(s) of your paved area. The string line will help ensure your edges are straight and pavers are flush. Begin laying pavers starting at one end of the project and working your way across. Leave a 3mm gap between the pavers for the jointing sand (you will sweep this in later). Ensure each paver is square with the string line and level using the spirit level. Wriggle pavers into place and tap with rubber mallet where required to ensure level.
4. Edging and locking in the paving
This is another really key step; you have laid your pavers and now you need to make sure they stay in place. Utilise a sand and cement mix to ‘haunch’ or lock-in around all sides of your pavers. This is achieved by making a small sand and cement mix in a wheelbarrow and then screeding this mix along the edge of your paver from the base to approximately 75 per cent of the paver’s height on an angle. This helps to ‘lock in’ the paved area and to help pavers stay in place. It does not hurt to also use a little of the sand and cement underneath the outer header course, as this will create even more strength.
5. Locking sand and sealing
Finally you can now add the locking sand. Sweep this sand in dry and it will fill the 3mm gaps you left in the pavers. Once the sand is settled you can use a whacker-packer with an old piece of carpet beneath it to compress and settle the pavers into the sand bed ensuring a great finish. Hose down area upon completion. Although not a must, sealers can enhance the look of the paver as well as protect it from both the elements and day-to-day wear and tear such as food fats and general staining.
— Jason Hodges is Australia’s well-loved celebrity landscaper, most notably seen on the Channel Seven lifestyle TV show Better Homes and Gardens. Jason is also a brand ambassador for Australia’s leading masonry manufacturer Adbri Masonry.
When you only have a small kitchen it can be challenging to squeeze everything you want into it, whilst still being a comfortable and enjoyable space you want to spend time in. Here are my eight top tips for making it work for you.
1. Keep it light and bright. This will make the space appear larger in scale. Solid, lighter colours for cabinets and benches will help to reflect light into every corner and keep things simple and tidy.
2. When in a really small property consider making the kitchen look like part of the furniture. By doing a few small things you can integrate the kitchen into your living space rather than having it as just a utility space. Some tips include integrating the appliances to give a more seamless look, and making the kitchen less busy by fitting only the base cupboards with handles and opting for handle-less touch catches on the upper cabinetry. Even consider having the whole kitchen, including the bench top space, encased in a single wall of cabinetry that can open when needed and be shut off when not in use.
3. Multi-purpose everything. Choose a sink that comes with a range of accessories, such as an integrated chopping board, to make food preparation easier.
4. Deep and wide drawers make items more accessible and are a space-efficient option compared to a standard cupboard. Add dividers for greater accessibility and ease.
5. Downsize the appliances. Space efficient dishwashers, ovens and fridges (yes you can get mini versions of most things) will keep a small space from feeling cramped and allow for more storage.
6. Depending on your space, consider a galley layout. This has the prep/cook/wash and serve counters on either side of a narrow walkway and is a very space-efficient layout when designing a small kitchen.
7. Go up up up. When space is at a premium make sure you remember to look up and maximise your vertical space. For example continue the cupboards to the ceiling and use this top storage space for things that are not often used or for display items to help soften the space.
8. Consider using mirrored panels or splashbacks to help explode the visual impact. There are so many good options available that are not reminiscent of bad ’90s mirrored wardrobe doors!
Employing just a few of these tips will help you get the most from your small space without feeling the squeeze on your lifestyle.
When it comes to renovating your bathroom there are many decisions to make. What is probably the biggest challenge is ensuring your design choices are both stylish and functional, and one of the best ways to guarantee you tick both these boxes is to get expert advice. Below I outline five design tips, with a particular focus on my expertise of tiling, to help make sure your bathroom makeover is a success!
My number one rule is if you’re going to renovate, do it properly. If you’re going to tile a bathroom, tile the whole room from floor to ceiling, to really give the space that wow factor.
Installing tiling features like niche shelving is a functional and aesthetic addition to your shower. A clever storage solution, a shower niche can eliminate the need to bend down to pick up your shampoo or have a grimy-looking shower tidy hanging by the shower head. Be sure to measure up your favourite bathroom products to be sure they’ll fit in any bespoke shelving. If you have a large space to work with in your bathroom, consider building a tiled niche wall to close off most of your shower. This will eliminate having any kind of shower screen.
Feature tiling in the bathroom is an absolute must and there are much more effective ways that just a little mosaic strip running up the wall. Consider these three options:
If you’re tiling around a bath area, have the floor tiling continue up the face of the bath to create a clean finish.
Tile the back wall (the first one you see as you walk into the room) with a different feature tile or continue the floor tile up the wall.
For a shower niche, tile the back with a feature mosaic, creating a distinct, stylish finish.
Shower and floor drains are often overlooked. However, a modern grate is not only important for drainage but can add an architectural look to your bathroom. When selecting, be sure to look at your options and not just go with a standard square grate. Consider using ‘smart grates’, which are designed with a tile insert in the middle to blend into the flooring. These are designed to give the appearance of an invisible grate and are not only long-lasting and easy-to-clean, but can add a contemporary design element to your makeover.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to the layout of your bathroom tiles. Consider using timber texture tiles and instead of laying them in a square bond, a herringbone pattern can add an extra creative edge.
— Daniel Picariello is one of Australia’s bestyoung wall and floor tilers, who will be representing Australia in the ultimate trades and skills showdown, the 43rd WorldSkills Competition in Sao Paolo, Brazil.
You can update your home with paint and you can change or add to your furniture as often as you please, but flooring is something that is unlikely to change in your home for years or decades to come, so making the right decision at the start of your renovation should be high on the agenda. In the hierarchy of questions around your interior flooring, you need to consider the following:
Alisa and Lysandra
How much can you spend?
In any build or renovation, budget is important, but investing a few extra dollars on the right flooring is worthwhile. Do your sums, and if dollars are tight, consider cutting costs from other areas of your renovation or build; you will not regret it.
Will it stay or will it go?
Are you likely to keep this property or sell it after a few years? If you’re renovating for investment purposes you can afford to choose more mainstream and cost-effective flooring options. If you’re likely to sell later on, we still recommend you invest in good flooring that will not age or feel the effects of use and foot traffic in the meantime.
What look and feel appeals to you?
This is the part where you need to make an emotional connection with your floor. Yes, you read that correctly. How do you want to feel when you wake up in the morning? Picture yourself walking barefoot and most importantly picture your home in winter. For instance, how will it feel walking on timber floorboards as opposed to tiles? Then consider your decor and architecture; make a choice of at least two types of flooring and create a mood board – it will instantly highlight which option compliments both your decor and layout.
Does your chosen look and feel meet the demands of your lifestyle?
Whilst the idea of carpeting your entire home feels warm and cosy, it’s not likely to be the best option especially if you have children and pets. Consider how much foot traffic your home is likely to receive over the years and the activities that will take place in your space. Are you big on entertaining? Frequent dinner parties and get togethers can easily damage floors that are prone to scratching or breakage. If you are renovating for investment purposes, you will need to consider the exact same questions because chances are that at sale time your buyer will be too.
Image: Choices Flooring
Will you love it in years to come?
We’ve transformed a number of homes where the owners were quick to point out that their flooring was impractical, the wrong colour and in may cases they’ve referred to it as cringe worthy!Remember that your floor will need to seamlessly accommodate your styling choices for years to come. For this reason it is important to pay particular attention to the hues and colours available to you and make the right textural and colour choices from the start.
From our experience with home renovations, we’ve come to love four types of flooring, and with the exception of bathrooms, there is no surprise that tiles did not make an appearance on our list!
Hardwoods
Still one of the most popular flooring options, hardwoods or solid timber floorboards will add warmth, softness and an ageless appeal to a home. If you’re renovating an older home you may already have good quality timber floorboards laying dormant and covered under lino or carpet; and with a good sand and polish they can come up looking beautifully, saving you thousands of dollars. Solid timber floors are easy to maintain, they are generally sound proof and can be extremely durable if sealed well. If budget allows, consider Royal Oak for its gorgeous ash shades and soft contemporary feel.
Polished concrete
The popular myth that polished concrete only suits modern homes is now long gone, and for good reason. Polished concrete is extremely durable, incredibly easy to maintain, and will survive through high traffic without looking worn. Sure, some may argue that it feels relatively cold, but this can be counteracted with the use of seasonal carpet or rugs. We love it because it’s highly versatile and the colour options are endless!
Stone
Natural stone flooring is a more eclectic style of flooring due to its high cost and lack of uniformity. It will not suit all homes or budgets, but it will make a statement in your home particularly if you want your floor to be the main feature. Even though it’s not our most frequent choice we love that it is natural and no one piece is the same, giving you a one-of-a-kind look and feel.
Carpet
Whilst we don’t recommend carpeting the entire home, we do like the warmth of carpets in key areas such as bedrooms and sitting rooms. Wool carpet is strong, feels pleasant and is fairly resilient. We love natural fibres and for this reason we also recommend sisal and jute which will suit most contemporary-classic decors.
Image: Choices Flooring
Your choice of floor has the capacity to make or break your renovation especially if you’re considering a quick sale. Make sure you don’t rush the process and remember to create and work with a mood board.
Whether you’re squirrelling money away for your first home or are a seasoned property shark, the process of saving for a deposit can be a thrill or a challenge… depending on how you tackle it! But the most effective techniques for building a rock solid deposit involve injecting a few crucial money-saving techniques into your everyday. Before you realise how effective the following tips are, they may have built you the perfect diving board to jump headfirst into the property market.
When setting yourself a savings goal, be realistic – it’s not going to happen overnight. Give yourself a timeframe to keep you on track, for example: “I’d like to save $50,000 in three years.” Doing this will allow you to analyse all your outgoings and deduct this from your income to give you an idea of what you should be aiming for – and what is realistic – to save each month.
Tip 2: Separate your needs from wants
When analysing your outgoings, be ruthless –are these needs or wants? You can’t survive without food or electricity, but do you really need to spend half your income on updating your wardrobe? Sometimes wants are borne from habit and there is a psychological connection between payday and treating yourself to new purchases. For example, celebrating payday with a visit to Westfield. These habits need to be reevaluated when you’re serious about saving for a property.
Tip 3: Learn how to snowball
So many people struggle to make the connection between knocking over debts and saving money. Snowballing is the art of paying off debts in order of their size, as hitting smaller commitments first will knock them off the to-do list while simultaneously eradicating any interest or further obligations you have to them.
Tip 4: Set up auto-savings
A separate savings account with automatic payments will allow you to directly debit some money from your everyday account each payday. No matter how big or small, they key thing here is that you’re saving some cash regularly and watching your home deposit dream get closer to reality.
Tip 5: Cut down on coffee
Before you get all panicky and up-in-arms, the important focus here is to minimise your cafe-bought intake, not completely go without your java. Simply giving up one coffee a day (assuming your coffee is $4) could save you $20 each working week which, over the course of 12 months, will add more than $1,000 to your savings. Bringing your lunch in from home just twice per week could net you more than $2,000 in savings per year.
Tip 6: Lock it away
Want to fast track your savings? Term deposits are a great way to avoid the temptation to dip into your savings. The best bit? As well as keeping your money locked away for a fixed period, some have high interest rates, so you’ll be making more money just for being smart with your savings!
Tip 7: Don’t go it alone
Do you have a friend who is also planning on saving for a deposit? Or are you saving to buy with a significant other? Use each other for motivation and make a pact to keep each other on track. For example, if you and your partner each commit to saving $100 a week toward your deposit, you’ll not only have a dedicated savings plan, but any amount you put aside will be matched by the other person. Using the above example of $100 per person per week could leave you close to $1,000 per month closer to your dream home.
The days of simply putting your pennies away and hoping for the best are long gone. If you want to call yourself a homeowner, follow these strategic tips and make it happen sooner.
— Bessie Hassan is the editor at finder.com.au, one of Australia’s largest comparison websites. She’s passionate about real estate, renovating, and helping Australians find better.
Two time The Block contestants and now brand ambassadors for Beacon Lighting, Josh and Jenna are still bringing their dynamic style to Australia via their exclusive Josh & Jenna Range.
Josh and Jenna
Encompassing pendants, ceiling fans, lamps, track lights and LED products, their experience in design, decoration and renovation have made them the perfect couple to share some tips on how to use lighting effectively in your home.
Tip 1 — Pendant perfection
Try clustering pendants at different heights or even mixing different shaped pendants together to make more of an impact in a room.
Tip 2 — Mixing trends
Mixing trends such as Scandinavian with industrial elements of chrome and bronze is a great way to add a contemporary edge to your existing decor.
Tip 3 — Exposed globes
Add an extra style element to an interesting light with a different shaped globe for a perfect contemporary light.
The bathroom can be quite the chilly place thanks to its hard surfaces like tiles, stone and ceramic. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Here are five tips on how to winter-proof your bathroom.
Underfloor heating
For a lasting warming solution, underfloor heating is not only a sound investment but is now considered an affordable luxury for new Australian homes. It is one of most efficient ways to heat your home and because it transfers more natural radiant heat, its also one of the cleanest.
For new builds, the Auspex Radiant system allows you to indulge in the luxury of underfloor heating at a fraction of the cost as this system uses energy efficient gas boilers and radiant heat transfer to achieve a comfortable natural heat. For an underfloor heating solution that can be installed during a renovation, Stiebel Eltron offers an electric above slab solution. Because it can be installed just underneath tiles, it’s ideal for renovations in smaller spaces like bathrooms.
Hydrotherm Milan Mobile Heated Rail Black
Hot water units
Having a hot water unit that’s going to allow for long hot showers at the end of a dreary day is another essential for the cooler months. Whether you’re replacing an old unit or looking for a brand new system, our Hot Water Decisions Guide is a great online tool that will help you choose the unit that perfectly suits your home and your usage requirements. There are plenty of electric, gas, continuous flow and solar hot water systems available, with our Thermann range proving one of the most popular thanks to its innovative modular design, efficiency and reliability.
Overhead heat lamps
If underfloor heating isn’t an option or you want to add heat from above, overhead lamps are the perfect answer. The benefit of installing this type of heater over others is twofold: they heat the space quickly and efficiently, and their overhead position means they’re out of the way.
These heaters are usually found as part of an all-in-one unit that combines an exhaust fan, lights and heater, so if you’re tight on space or budget this is a perfect option for you.
Heated towel rails
Heated towel rails like those in the Milli Edge and Kado ranges not only add a touch of luxury, but will also dry your wet towels quickly and conveniently in those colder months. There are also moveable options like the Hydrotherm Milan Mobile available which can be stored away during the warmer months — great for rentals or when space is at a premium.
With a range of sizes and finishes to suit any bathroom design and budget, heated towel rails are an easy and affordable winter warmer accessory, and have become one of the must-have items in the Australian bathroom.
Kado Quad Wall Mounted Heated Rails
Soft furnishings
While some options like new hot water units or underfloor heating require more forward planning, there are still many ways to add warmth to the bathroom without extensive renovations. Adding soft furnishings like natural-fibre rugs and bathmats will do wonders to soften hard surfaces and make your bathing experience a lot more cosy.
And, never underestimate the power of a fluffy bath robe and a cosy set of slippers. Having these on hand as you step out of the bath or shower is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to keep toasty in those winter months!
