Tag: home reno

Create the illusion of space with super sized tiles

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date February 24, 2016
No Comments on Create the illusion of space with super sized tiles

Considered magicians of home décor, large tiles are rising in popularity – no doubt due to their ability to make a space feel bigger.

“Larger formats are definitely a spatial consideration, particularly when used as flooring to created added depth or width to a room,” says Beaumont Tiles’ communications and design specialist Christie Wood.

The perfect complement to modern interiors, larger tiles create a feeling of clean space – mostly because they require fewer grout joins (which distract the eye) and usually have rectified (flat) edges which impart a sleek feel.

Once considered large, 400mm x 400mm tiles have now been eclipsed by 600mm x 600mm and even 1m x 1m tiles. Additionally, in response to the trend, tile manufacturers have developed new roller press technology to produce enormous 3m x 1m tiles that are only a slim 3.5mm. In light of this, it comes as no surprise that the average tile size has doubled in the last year.

Like anything new, larger format tiles require special considerations when it comes to installation and Christie cautions against DIY. “Laying big tiles is really a job for the professionals as they require skilled tilers adept at working with this large format,” says Christie who says that some really large formats require two tilers to lift and lay which can increase your costs.

You also must consider the shape of your room before you choose your large format tile. “If it’s a longer, thinner space, consider a 450mm x 900mm instead of an 800mm x 800mm. But if you have a large open plan area, your biggest decision is how big should you go!” says Christie.

Another consideration is grout colour – it’s almost as important as tile choice and it’s even more so with larger format tiles. “Use the same colour grout to trick the eyes and make your floor or wall ‘disappear’ or choose a contrasting grout to emphasise the size of the tile or to create a feature,” says Christie.

Click here for more.

Tags bathroom, beaumont tiles, building, design, flooring, home reno, home renovation, interiors, kitchen reno, reno, renovating, renovation, tiles

Bathrooms Kitchens RENO ADDICT

New on-trend marble collection from Granite Transformations

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date February 16, 2016
No Comments on New on-trend marble collection from Granite Transformations

Perfect for renovators, Granite Transformations has a long history of fuss-free makeovers. Their range installs easily over existing kitchen benchtops and splash backs meaning costly and time-consuming demolition can be avoided.

Kitchen bench and splash back in Carrara

Responding to consumer tastes, the company has just released an on-trend marble collection and while it looks like the real thing it’s actually an engineered stone, making it non-porous, heat, scratch, stain and impact resistant.

Kitchen bench and splash back in Calacatta

The super serviceable marble range includes four designs: Calacatta, Carrara, Portland White and our favourite, Statuario (a refined yet statement grey vein on a cool white background).

Statuario

With slabs that are just 6.5mm thick, your bathroom or kitchen can be renovated in as little as one day by simply laying it over the top.

There’s nothing we like more than a swift, cost-effective reno. Click here for more.

Tags bathroom renovation, bench top, granite transformations, home reno, home renovation, kitchen, kitchen reno, kitchen renovation, marble, reno, renovating, renovation, Splash back

Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

Introducing HardieDeck – a fuss-free alternative to timber decking

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date January 28, 2016
No Comments on Introducing HardieDeck – a fuss-free alternative to timber decking

There’s nothing we like more than a low-maintenance building material and timber decking alternative HardieDeck certainly fits that bill.

Unlike timber decking, HardieDeck doesn’t require regular staining and is also resistant to fading, termites, warping, moisture damage and fire too making it ideal for houses in a bushfire zone.

And it’s not only practical but, with its smart architectural lines it looks super smart too. The product is securely fixed in place without splinters or nails making it smooth and safe to walk on and perfect for lovers of minimalist design.

“It takes work to keep a timber deck looking good with regular staining and knocking nails back in, whereas HardieDeck is a concealed fix so you’ll never see a screw or nail and it’s hard wearing,” says James.

The boards are designed to be coated in durable paving paints which gives plenty of scope for matching or complementing other elements of your home like wall or roof colours and tiled paving – another handy design feature.

“Over time, decking usually fades and tends to grey as it ages while HardieDeck remains the colour you paint it,” says Christian Hansen, Marketing Manager for James Hardie Australia.

The product can also be clear sealed for that raw, natural look popular in contemporary architecture.

Click here for more.

Tags building, construction, deck, decking, HardieDeck, home reno, home renovation, outdoor, outdoors, renovating, renovation

Bathrooms Design RENO ADDICT Shopping

Super smart new bathroom range ideal for compact spaces

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date January 27, 2016
No Comments on Super smart new bathroom range ideal for compact spaces

As square meterage prices rise, so does demand for clever design solutions for small spaces.

The rise of the ensuite and small bathroom presents its own unique design challenges but we’ve got our eye on one range in particular that is looking to remedy the situation – enter Raymor.

While there’s no doubt that the dedicated use of a single tile (in this case a mid-tone porcelain timber-look option) keeps the space looking larger, so too do the compact bathroom fixtures. We love the Scandinavian meets sauna vibe of this space.

Raymor Pattison wall hung engineered stone basin, $479

Key to the uncluttered look too is the ceiling-mounted showerhead and wall-mounted basin – we are big fans of the integrated hand-towel, concealed waste and minimalist lines of this compact number. In addition, the wall hung toilet, with concealed cistern, also maximises the sense of space.

Raymor Byron wall hung toilet suite, $799

Click here for more.

Tags bathroom, bathroom design, design, ensuite, home reno, interiors, raymor, renovating, renovation, small bathroom

Bathrooms Before & Afters Design Kitchens Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real reno: tired rental transformed into chic owner-occupied abode

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date January 19, 2016
No Comments on Real reno: tired rental transformed into chic owner-occupied abode

After several years of hard time as a rental, this Sydney apartment undertook a major cosmetic renovation when its owner decided to move back in, and the results are fabulous.

BEFORE kitchen

AFTER kitchen

From paint to lighting, window coverings, flooring and storage, the apartment was entirely stripped back making way for a new kitchen, bathroom, laundry and two bedrooms – all in under four months.

“The client wanted a contemporary home with a touch of luxury and she loved black and white,” says interior designer and decorator Anoushka Allum of Smartspace Interiors who accented the monochromatic colour brief with pops of bright colour.

BEFORE laundry

AFTER laundry

“We had a generous budget, given the size of the apartment, which allowed me to use premium features,” says Anoushka.

“The bathroom was the biggest concern, as the client wanted a full sized bath and to achieve this we had to remove a wall,” says Anoushka who used on-trend black bathroom fixtures, and a black and white cement floor tile, for a contemporary finish.

BEFORE bathroom

AFTER bathroom

The bathroom layout was altered completely to improve its use of space and to allow for the addition of a bath and storage.

The laundry floorplan was reconfigured and major cosmetic changes were made to overhaul the space too. “I added extra lighting and a colourful yellow splash back to make this windowless area brighter,” says Anoushka.

AFTER bathroom

The black and white theme continued in the kitchen which features a black counter, white subway tile and the same floor tile as the bathroom, for continuity – TeraNova supplied the tiles throughout.

The shaker-style doors add a classic element to what is an otherwise contemporary scheme and Castlewood Kitchens created all of the apartment’s new cabinetry.

AFTER main bedroom

One major change, that you wouldn’t necessarily notice at first, is the addition of thoughtful storage – essential for keeping the interior tidy and making it seem larger. “The introduction of quality storage in the kitchen, laundry and bathroom improved functionality and allows for an uncluttered space,” says Anoushka.

AFTER study

Soft furnishings had a major part to play too with the finishing touches providing colour and texture throughout – King Living, BoConcept, Globe West, Forty Winks and La Maison were the main suppliers. Abstract prints, Morrocan-printed wallpaper and touches of elegant grey all worked to transform the space into a stylish, contemporary abode.

AFTER lounge room

“I added artworks, accessories and soft furnishings and the results were striking. The design has created an impactful first impression which is fun and vibrant whilst still elegant and cohesive,” says Anoushka.

Design DIY Expert Tips RENO ADDICT Styling

Alisa & Lysandra on dressing (your windows) for success!

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date December 14, 2015
No Comments on Alisa & Lysandra on dressing (your windows) for success!

We see it all the time, properties where the owners have renovated the home from floor to ceiling covering every detail a potential buyer is looking for, until our gaze reaches the windows (inset cricket sounds).

A beautiful property with inappropriate or dated window furnishings is a deal breaker for buyers. In a human analogy, it’s like a well-dressed woman turning up at a gala dinner wearing a gorgeous gown…in her wellies.

The case of no window treatments

In the hierarchy of your renovation budget, window furnishings should be amongst the top tasks on your expense list. Leaving your newly renovated property without window treatments is an automatic red flag for buyers that signals they need to invest extra dollars they often don’t have.

A house with no window treatments also lacks warmth and elegance, often jeopardizing the perceived value of the home.

The case of dated window treatments

You’ve renovated the entire property, but have run out of budget for new curtains or blinds. The ones currently in the property are still functional albeit a little dated and not matching to the new colour scheme of the home. Do you keep them or do you ditch them?

Replace them immediately!

If dollars are tight, you may be able to sell them online as secondhand window treatments provided that they are still in a good condition. With endless choices available you are bound to find a window treatment that will fit the budget, or stretch it conservatively, but whatever you do don’t have a blind spot when it comes to assessing and dressing your windows.

Curtains, blinds or both?

Your budget will determine your choices. If you’re renovating for profit, versus renovating to live in, you will also have different standards for the window treatments you wish to see. Layering is so important for creating aesthetic abundance and elegance in a home.

Window furnishings have a dual purpose; a functional one (keeping the light out, controlling room temperature) and an aesthetic one (creating the illusion of space, grandeur, softness and warmth)

Block out blinds will tick the functionality box, but why not add another layer of sheer curtains which will give you additional light and mood control!

If you’re adding curtains to the property, it’s best to create the illusion of space by increasing their length so that they appear longer from floor to ceiling, even if your window is considerably smaller in size.

If you’re adding blinds, remember to review all the colour choices available to you. The days of white or beige blinds are long gone, and nowadays you can colour match your blinds to your wall colour therefore creating a seamless look that adds more dimension and flow to your interiors.

Are plantation shutters worth it?

Plantation shutters are gorgeous and opulent yet earthy, and can literally transform not only your windows but the entire look and feel of your home. They are low maintenance, ideal for families with asthma, and will look ‘as new’ in years to come.

Traditionally, renovators steer away from plantation shutters due to their cost, but we’re here to tell you that if you are ruling them out because of the dollars you need to think again! Market competition has really increased, and more suppliers are offering cost-effective options for plantation shutters that look incredibly beautiful but are manufactured at a cost of the usual retail price. Shop around and obtain not only three but four, five or six quotes. You’d be surprised how much you can save.

Balance is key

Not dressing your windows is just as bad as overdressing them.

Be conservative with your choices and always assess for balance. Heavily dressed windows in a minimalist home will stand out and feel out-of-place. Likewise, poorly dressed windows in a beautiful home will also have negative aesthetic repercussions.

Do you have a window furnishing question? We’d love to help.

Read all Alisa & Lysandra’s articles | Read more about Alisa & Lysandra | Visit their online store.

Tags alisa lysandra, blinds, curtains, furnishings, home reno, plantation shutters, reno, renovating, renovation, shutters, window, window dressing, window furnishings, window treatment

Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT

How to create the perfect kitchen for the way we live today

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date December 10, 2015
No Comments on How to create the perfect kitchen for the way we live today

As the hub of the home, the kitchen is the place we congregate to cook, catch up on the day and entertain friends. In essence, today’s kitchens must complement our lifestyle as well as how we cook.

Here are a few considerations to help you design a kitchen space that complements the way you live.

Functionality is key
Identify the key work and storage zones within the kitchen plan – the prep area, cooking area and wash area are the three critical spots. Make sure they reflect how you want to use your kitchen, and don’t be restricted by conventional kitchen layouts.

Also, if you are using an existing fridge within the design, consider whether it opens to the left or right so that you incorporate it effectively into your layout.

Bespoke cooktop
Consider your cooking style and build your perfect cooktop by mixing and matching different sizes and types of cooktops. From induction to gas on glass or single and double burners, there are many different combinations to suit your cooking preferences.

Think drawers
One of the biggest evolutions in kitchen design has been the shift from cupboards to drawers for storage. A kitchen full of drawers creates a more flexible, functional and ergonomic space. Dishwashers with drawers, where the whole unit pulls out, make cleaning up a breeze and are much kinder on your back too.

Distributed appliances are a new design concept being referenced by kitchen designers. They provide you the flexibility to configure your kitchen to suit the way you work and live. As kitchens evolve to act more like lounge spaces, you could install a multi-temperature drawer for drinks by the dining table, a drawer dishwasher for crockery by the sink and another for glasses by the bar – the possibilities are endless.

You can also opt to place single dishwasher drawers side by side, with one able to operate alone for smaller loads, while the second, when space is short, acts as storage and for larger loads. The ergonomic drawer-based design works to reduce bending to load and unload heavy plates and platters.

Be consistent
To create a consistent aesthetic across appliances, purchase products that are visually complementary. Choose a brand that has designed their range of kitchen appliances, from fridges and dishwashers to ovens and cooktops with classic clean lines, cohesive materials and matching design aspects – think matching handles, black glass and stainless steel finishes.

For even greater aesthetic consistency, consider integrated appliances as they are sleek, space-saving and discrete. Clean lines and a flush fit are important with this trend – you want to create the illusion of continuous cabinetry.

–Mark Elmore is the head of industrial design for Fisher & Paykel.

Tags appliances, cooktop, design, dishwasher, ergonomic, fisher & paykel, fridge, home, home reno, home renovation, interiors, kitchen, kitchen reno, oven, renovating, renovation

Before & Afters Design DIY Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real reno: the tired rental in need of a massive facelift

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date November 23, 2015
No Comments on Real reno: the tired rental in need of a massive facelift

Having bought her three-bedroom brick home in Eimeo, Queensland as an investment property, Debbie Goodwin had been renting it out for some 15 years. So when the idea to sell came to mind, it was time to get the hard hat on and the tool belt out, because it was in serious need of a revamp!

“It had good bones but it had to have a massive facelift on the interior. So we completely gutted the whole inside of the house and put in a brand new kitchen, bathroom, laundry, toilet, painted the whole interior, put in new blinds, fans and aircon, timber boards in all the living spaces and tiles in all the wet areas.”

Costing $50,000, it took approximately 10 months, with Debbie and her husband doing a lot of the reno themselves, after work and on the weekend. “The biggest challenge was definitely the time factor as we have three small boys and a business that operates seven days a week.”

With the new kitchen, living and bathroom making the biggest difference to the home, as a seasoned renovator, Debbie made some smart moves, knowing when to spend big and when to rein it in. “The freestanding bath was the best bargain product that will really add value to the home. As was repainting, especially in the living room, as it is now so fresh and inviting. Definitely worth the money.”

As well as budgeting, another of Debbie key’s considerations is choosing the right people for the job, thinking it’s best to get the experts in first time round and save the time and money of re-do jobs “My advice for would-be renovators is to source good tradies. Be organised and always be prepared for unexpected costs to crop up.”

Tags Debbie Goodwin, design, diy, Eimeo, home reno, interiors, investment property, queensland, renovating, renovation, rental, renting

Designers House Tours Interviews RENO ADDICT

Real homes: antique collectors’ renovated federation home

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date November 19, 2015
1 Comment on Real homes: antique collectors’ renovated federation home

After spending most of their 39 years of marriage overseas, Robyn and Russ Bellis were ready to return to Sydney and find their forever home.

Purchasing a federation house in Killara, they immediately fell in love with its period features; think pressed metal ceilings, transom windows above the doors, servant bells and a wrap-around front verandah. However, it couldn’t be denied it was in need of an update.

[contextly_sidebar id=”m5nu9U2Bq5UjZ5JLaNrV5O03fDJhlpg1″]So, enlisting the help of Bjil Architecture and Stuart Wilson Constructions (coincidently the same people who renovated my family home) the house underwent a massive two-year overhaul. “The renovations comprised of a new kitchen/pantry, TV room, garden room, covered patio, bathroom, sewing room, gym and ensuite and walk in wardrobe off the master bedroom,” explains Robyn. “The house had originally sat to one side of the block so we were able to add on across the back and at the side keeping all the living on then one level and then excavating down for the workshop, garages and wine cellar.”

With the renovations keeping to the Federation style, the mouldings, picture rails and pressed ceilings were kept throughout, but with the addition of modern conveniences such as open plan living, the gym, the wine cellar and Robyn’s favourite space, the garden room. “It is a favourite with its glass bi-fold windows and doors, a six metre high brick wall and large architectural wooden trusses. After having a conservatory in Wimbledon, where we lived for 10 years, we wanted a room with lots of light overlooking the garden and pool.”

Working closely with Bijl Architecture on designing the house to fit their needs, it was immensely important that Robyn’s many collections were housed for all to see. “I have collected for many years from all parts of the world and have collections of antique needlework samplers, sewing accessories, maps, scales and boxes. So when renovating the house we made sure there were enough shelves and glass door cabinets for display purposes.”

As a regular at auctions, antique and flea markets, the home is unsurprisingly full of many unique treasures. “I think one of my favourite pieces is a Regency (1820) sewing box with all the fittings including Bessey’s silk from 1825. This came from a large country house near Billinghurst, West Sussex. Also a friend introduced us to antique maps which came from old atlases and bibles, some of which are over 350 years old, printed from hand carved copper plates and hand coloured.” All these additions make the home spectacular, and truly, on-of-a-kind!

Photography by Peter Bennetts

For more on Bijl Architecture.

Tags Bijl Architecture, collector, construction, design, federation, federation home, home reno, house tour, real home, renovating, renovation, Robyn and Russ Bellis, Robyn Bellis, Russ Bellis, Stuart Wilson, Stuart Wilson Constructions

Before & Afters Design DIY Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real reno: the labour of love that made a profit of $100,000+

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date November 5, 2015
No Comments on Real reno: the labour of love that made a profit of $100,000+

While the apartment was a far cry from perfect — with its dim lighting, strange reclaimed boiler room with very low ceiling and a whole lot of mess, for Michael Casten, it was well worth the gamble.

Situated in the desirable Sydney location of Elizabeth Bay, Michael purchased it for $500,000 in July 2014. A year later he sold it for a figure in the high $600,000s, not a bad effort considering he spent just $40,000 on the reno. “I did most of the work myself to keep costs down,” explains Michael. “Though I did have a lot of help from one of my best mates who also happens to be my neighbour!”

zB298CEjA0xeOkE818MHvTIDzBcMuBgjPhbWFV-Xpsg — After: bathroom

Tackling one room at a time (Block style!), some were simple, like repainting the bedroom and retiling the kitchen and bathroom, whilst others, like the boiler room and stairs, were much more extensive. “My proudest accomplishment was building the stairs and bookcase which was a two month labour of love. As there’s a structural beam running the width of the living room, originally when you walked up the stairs you would need to duck underneath it! So I pushed the stairs back behind the beam to avoid this. I then installed two new walls in the old boiler room/dining room and the black bi-fold doors that can be used to close off the room should you want to house guests. The tiles were removed and replaced by polished concrete. I then ripped down the false ceiling to expose the concrete ceiling and ran copper pipes to the light fitting to maximise the head height.”

xzuG7BOb9tzbR_8pjP--7f3U9w9P_MkbFJH3VkiI3xo — Before: living

TMn3no1Pf0tLt30F2mEhlGJsukvbGRqzoW9fhkwf2uM — After: living

Once his least favourite space, the old boiler room come dining room now house two new rooms, one a walk in wardrobe/storage space and the other a dining room with bifold doors. “I love having a separate dining room. It’s certainly my favourite space as it’s such a luxury to have in inner city apartments.”

Mixing a lot of off the shelf Bunnings and Ikea hardware with statement pieces to try to keep costs down, such as the budget subway tiles mixed with Carrara marble benchtops, one place Michael did decide to spend big on was the lights. “Moving all the lighting from track lights on the wall to the ceiling totally removed the dim, depressing mood of the place. It’s made the biggest difference to the home.”

With the property marking Michael’s third reno — he splits his time between working as a medical advisor, running his side project A.M. Homewares and renovating — he wouldn’t hesitate to do it all over again! “The space you live in has such a big impact on your mood so if you don’t like something, change it. Just remember to keep track of the budget! I had an excel document permanently open on my laptop tracking every cent.”

Tags building, design, diy, home reno, interiors, real estate, real reno, renovating, renovation

RENO ADDICT

Don’t play renovation roulette this National Asbestos Awareness Month

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date November 2, 2015
No Comments on Don’t play renovation roulette this National Asbestos Awareness Month

With one in three Australian homes containing asbestos, renovators and tradies need to protect themselves. There is no known safe level of exposure to asbestos fibres, so with November being National Asbestos Awareness Month now is the time to be diligent!

“Many Australians believe that only fibro homes contain asbestos but this couldn’t be further from the truth,” explains Peter Dunphy, chair of the Asbestos Education Committee. “Because Australia was among the highest consumers of asbestos products in the world, asbestos-containing materials are common in homes built or renovated before 1987 with a broad range of products still commonly found in and around any brick, weatherboard, fibro or clad home.”

If left undisturbed and well-maintained asbestos-containing products generally don’t pose a health risk. However, if these products are disturbed and fibres are released during a renovation, health risks can occur. And while you may think you’re being careful, the hidden dangers of asbestos can be absolutely anywhere! “People would be surprised at where they might find asbestos,” says Peter. “It can be under floor coverings such as carpets, linoleum and vinyl tiles, behind wall and floor tiles, in cement floors, internal and external walls, ceilings and ceiling space (insulation), eaves, garages, roofs, around hot water pipes, fences, extensions to homes, garages, outdoor toilets, backyard, farm sheds and even dog kennels.”

There is no cure for mesothelioma (a cancer that can develop 20-to-50 years after inhaling asbestos fibres and with an average survival time of 10-to-12 months) so to renovate sensibly and knowledgeably, visit Asbestos Awareness and take the 20 Point Asbestos Safety Check. This will assist you in identifying the sorts of products to look for, the locations of where they might be found and you’ll also learn how to manage and dispose of asbestos safely.

During November Australians are also encouraged to host a Blue Lamington Drive morning or afternoon tea, to help raise awareness of the current dangers of asbestos, while raising vital funds for medical research and support services for sufferers of asbestos-related diseases.

For more information.

Tags asbestos, Asbestos awareness, design, home reno, interiors, National Asbestos Awareness Month, renovating, renovation

Design DIY Kitchens RENO ADDICT Shopping

Neale Whitaker’s 5 tips for creating a Block worthy kitchen

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 28, 2015
No Comments on Neale Whitaker’s 5 tips for creating a Block worthy kitchen

Kitchen week is always my favourite week on The Block. The couples have been planning their kitchens (and budgeting for them) since week one, so it’s usually the week when you see their masterplans really start to take shape. For me the kitchen is the heart of each apartment and I believe it is for buyers too. Real estate guru John McGrath claims that “kitchens and bathrooms sell houses” and he’s right. The kitchens in this series certainly don’t disappoint.

So if you’re planning to renovate yourself, here’s my top five tips for revamping your kitchen, Block style!

1. Plan, plan and then plan again

Kitchen renovations are expensive so you want to make sure that you are really getting the kitchen you need. You need to put your requirements first and think what you like to do in the kitchen, do you like to entertain, is your kitchen the hub of a family home or does it need to double as a dining room or study? Ebony and Luke did this perfectly by making the bold decision to remove a wall in the planning stages of their design.

2. Keep potential buyers in mind

Vonni and Suzi's kitchen — Vonni and Suzi’s kitchen

While you may be renovating the kitchen for you, consider its potential appeal to a buyer should you decide to move on. Kitchens can make or break a sale so it’s always good to have that in mind when you’re choosing surfaces, splashbacks and appliances. Suzi and Vonni thought this through, keeping an entertainer in mind when designing their kitchen, opting for a monochrome colour palette brought to life with contrasting Silestone benchtops in moody grey Carbono and crisp, white Helix for the island.

3. Play it safe with neutral palettes

Kingi and Caro's kitchen — Kingi and Caro’s kitchen

Remember that most of us only fully renovate our kitchens every five-to-10 years. It’s far wiser to choose good-looking neutral surfaces and cabinetry that can be easily and inexpensively updated with new stools, lighting or kitchen accessories. They need a long life so it was great to see that this season’s teams weren’t tempted to choose colours or styles that would age quickly. Kingi and Caro have been smart with a unique design without going overboard — balancing the bolder elements nicely with the fresh tones of Silestone Blanco Zeus on their benches.

4. Storage is crucial

Shay and Dean's kitchen — Shay and Dean’s kitchen

Not everyone can afford the luxury of a butler’s pantry but maximise your storage options in terms of drawers and cupboards. The basic rule is that you can never have enough storage! Think about the task lighting (overhead pendants are hard to beat), the dimensions of the sink and the classic ‘kitchen triangle’ — the distance between cook tops, sink and refrigerator. It’s also worth considering the height and convenience of your appliances. Shay and Dean were smart with their kitchen design to reclaim space and create a hidden butler’s pantry to give future home owners plenty of smart storage solutions.

5. Subtle but smart features

Whitney and Andy's kitchen — Whitney and Andy’s kitchen

Remember that soft-close cabinetry (integrated handles) and concealed appliances will help create a sense of space in the kitchen. Think about the visual impact of a mirrored splashback, not only in terms of reflecting outdoor views but also creating a sense of space. And finally consider the aesthetic relationship between floors, work surfaces, joinery and splashbacks. Modern combinations like Silestone quartz surfaces complemented by timber, brick and matt laminates can look amazing and still feel timeless. Whitney and Andy were on-trend with their Scandi style, with the subtle marbling of Silestone in Lyra for their surfaces contrasting with Ballina Oak timber for their cabinetry.

For more information.

— Neale is a judge on The Block, the editor-in-chief of Vogue Living and a Cosentino ambassador.

Tags Cosentino, design, home reno, interiors, kitchen reno, kitchens, neale whitaker, quartz, renovating, renovation, silestone, Silestone by Cosentino, surfaces, the block

Before & Afters Design DIY House Tours Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Real reno: the perfect property flip!

Post author By Jodie Bowker
Post date October 23, 2015
No Comments on Real reno: the perfect property flip!

It’s always a thrill to see the For Sale sign go up on a home you’ve just finished renovating – especially when you’ve already found your next project. But what do you do when the stars don’t align and you want to buy before you’ve sold?

This is the situation our clients Kirra and Blake found themselves in on the very day their finished renovation went on the market. The couple, who live in the beautiful hinterland in Bogangar in Northern NSW, recently completed a makeover on a home they bought just over four years ago.

Blake, who is a builder, completed the work – an extensive renovation that completely overhauled the original ‘70s house and breathed fresh life into what is now a light and airy family home. The four-bedroom home backs on to nine acres of stunning nature reserve and is a 10-minute walk to Cabarita Beach.

“Even though we knew we were going to sell the house when it was finished,” says Kirra. “We renovated it exactly the way we wanted it to be for our lifestyle.” The result is bright and breezy – with stylish, simple neutrals such as new bamboo flooring and a fresh, new all-white kitchen – the perfect style for a home in this leafy green setting. Boasting a large wrap-around timber veranda, the finished product has four bedrooms – the main with ensuite, two bathrooms, double garage, oodles of storage (inside and out), a chicken coop, fruit trees, a vege garden … the works!

But with the renovation complete, and a new baby on the way, the time had come for the family of three to put the house on the market and shop around for a new project, one that would give them more space and some land of their own. As luck would have it, they found their next dream home immediately. The problem was, their own house had only just gone on the market.

A decision needed to be made! And quickly. “Houses with land attached are pretty scarce where we live,” explains Kirra. “And everyone wants them, so we really didn’t want to miss out, but it’s pretty scary to commit to another mortgage before you sell the house you already have.”

Kirra and Blake had some options – but were pretty keen to maximise the sale price of the house they had put so much work into and didn’t want to be in the situation of having to accept an inferior offer because they were under financial pressure.

They originally bought the house for $320,000 and with Blake doing all the building work himself, the complete renovation came in at just over $70,000. The couple had put it on the market for offers over $535,000.

2p1xhj8umbn26z6twwx00jfh2 — After: bathroom

In their situation, they had a few options:

Take out bridging finance to secure the new home;
Put down a deposit on the new house with clauses in the purchase contract to give them an out if theirs did not sell;
Withdraw equity from their own home to put down a substantial deposit on the new one; or
Just sit tight and hope theirs sold quickly.

Given the appeal of their freshly renovated home to young families, and with assurances from their agent it would sell relatively quickly, Kirra and Blake decided to wait it out in the hope it sold before the new one was snapped up by somebody else! And while this was the easiest way to go in terms of organising new loans and so on, it was probably also the one with the most potential for heartache if they missed out.

But thankfully for Kirra and Blake, their home sold within a matter of days and they were able to put in an offer for the next house before anyone else. Their story had a happy ending because the home was exceptionally well renovated and was priced to meet the market.

But even when things don’t fall into place as easily as they did for Kirra and Blake, the good news is there are usually ways to secure your next purchase, even if your current property is still on the market. These are detailed here.

It can be a juggling act, but take heart, it can be done!

— Paul is the Director of CVG Finance, a leading brokerage offering financial services across all areas.

Tags CVG Finance, finance, flip property, home reno, home renovation, nsw reno, real reno, renovating, renovating to sell

Design DIY RENO ADDICT

Renovating for profit v lifestyle

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 21, 2015
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The Block living room reveals week 6

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 19, 2015
No Comments on The Block living room reveals week 6

The judges may not have been overly impressed but I finished watching the living room reveals with a big smile on my face. It was truly the week of the underdogs, with Luke and Ebony taking out their first win, and Whitney and Andy just half a point behind. For two couples who have spent four weeks each in the bottom two, it was so lovely to see them get some positive feedback. So what did the judges have to say?

Caro and Kingi: 20, third place

Starting the week with the big idea to turn their living room into a home cinema, with recliners and a popcorn machine(!), second thoughts saw Caro and Kingi turn it down, a little bit! Bringing back their Scandi-industrial style with Kingi’s rendering and adding a special, one-of-a-kind artwork (a photograph of a hotel key they found in week one), after two wins in a row, the Townsville couple were the team to beat.

“It’s very dark,” said Darren upon entry. Shaynna agreed: “The whole building is about the view and the city, but the couch has its back to the view.” All the judges felt the layout was completely wrong and that by not taking advantage of their view and north-west aspect they had cut their selling point by 50%.

Shaynna thought the sofa would polarise buyers and dated the room. She did however like the key artwork, as did Darren, who felt it brought to the room a beautiful feeling of “heritage, history and authenticity.” The coffee table got a big tick as did the rug, styling and execution.

— Our picks to buy: Halcyon Lake Rug | Shaynna Blaze Book | Coco Daydream Mandle

Whitney and Andy: 23, second place

Four weeks in a row in the bottom two had hit Whitney and Andy hard. With money at an all time low, they needed a win more than ever. Deciding on real timber floorboards and a feature wall with a mural painted on it, they hoped their show-stopping pieces would be enough to break their losing cycle.

“At least they got the orientation right,” said Shaynna, “This is the polar opposite than what we’ve just come from and it feels so much bigger.” However, while Neale liked the orientation, he did not feel the same way about the art: “That totally overwhelms me.” Darren thought it was young and cool, but all the judges agreed it didn’t fit the geographic location. “It’s more a studio in Fitzroy than a luxury apartment in South Yarra,” said Neale.

The judges loved the coffee table and sound system and thought the floorboards were spectacular. The chair in the corner, with its little shelf was also a hit. “This room shows planning, foresight and courage in a tight timeframe with no money,” said Darren. The judges’ overall thoughts were that they were on the right track, with layout and furniture choices, but just needed to up their styling and sophistication.

— Our picks to buy: Basic Habitat Cushion | Behr & Co Marble Cross | Home Concepts Sofa

Suzi and Vonni: 18, fourth place

After coming in last place in last week’s room reveal and finding out they were strapped for cash, Suzi and Vonni were another team desperate for a win. Hoping to wow the judges with a recessed bar, a full-wall wine fridge and electric fireplace, it’s safe to say it didn’t go quite according to plan!

“A wine fridge in your living room,” said Neale. “Now that is just bizarre!” All the judges were a bit flabbergasted! “They’re a great luxury inclusion in a pantry but not by the couch,” said Shaynna. Looking around, Darren though 50% of the room was beautiful and luxurious. He loved the sofa, wall treatment, chair, mirror, linens, and timber on the floor, but then looking in the other direction (at the bar and fridge) and it all fell apart.

Then Shaynna spotted the electric fireplace: “That is the most hideous thing I’ve seen this series!” Uh oh! All the judges agreed the whole room had poor execution and the focus was all about drinking and not living. “This is actually very tacky,” Shaynna said of the whole space. “The use of the mirror in the bar area, reflecting the view, is the only good thing about it,” said Darren. The judges’ solution? Turn the bar into a bookcase and get rid of the fireplace. The room can be salvaged!

— Our picks to buy: Laguiole Cheese Set | Globe West Sofa | Urban Road Cushion

Luke and Ebony: 23.5, first place

Spending the first four weeks in the bottom two had the WA siblings in the dumps, but after coming second last week and winning 10 grand at the glass challenge, things were starting to look up! Weeks ago they had made the game-changing decision to knock out some walls and make an open-plan living space. Add some custom-made cabinetry and Luke and Ebony certainly had their zing back.

“That’s super cool,” said Darren about the new open-plan entry way. “That’s going to make it feel so huge,” said Neale, “In fact it’s already feeling quite big just in here.” All the judges agreed turning the kitchen, living and dining into one space was going to put their apartment in a different league. In Neale’s opinion it really was a masterstroke.

While the judges still had issues with the orientation and felt the sofa should have been facing the view, the seating, built-in cabinetry, flooring, artwork and sliding panel that hid the TV all got big ticks. Shaynna thought the colours were a knock out and was a big fan of the rug. That said, none of the judges liked the bar and they all hated the tiles. “It feels cheap and nasty,” said Shaynna. “Replace those tiles with a mirror.”

— Our picks to buy: Boyd Blue Throw | The Rug Collection Java Rug | Hamptons Everlasting Style Copper Mirror

Dean and Shay: 12, last place

Making the gamble to change the layout of their apartment and swap the kitchen and living room, meant Dean and Shay’s living area was exactly where the current construction work was! So, unable to reveal their space in time, they put together a taster plate for the judges, so they could see the furniture and accessories, and well that was all.

For once the judges were a bit speechless. Until… “It’s a disaster,” said Neale. “It’s a joke,” said Shaynna. With no plaster, no paint and no floors, the judges felt changing the layout had been a mistake, especially because of the windows. “The window height is different to all the other apartments,” said Neale. “These are kitchen windows they have no impact compared to the full length windows in the original living room. It’s all about impact and the impact is lost in here.”

The judges thought it was a bit of a tragedy, but they attempted to not lose hope. “We just have to wait and see what the grand plan is,” said Neale. “It could be smarter than all of us.” All of the judges agreed that the kitchen and dining areas would have to be absolutely stunning to save the apartment.

— Our picks to buy: One Fine Print Art Print | CLU Living Wire Bowl | Vintage LED Pendants

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Tags darren palmer, design, home reno, interiors, living room, neale whitaker, reno, renovating, room reveal, shaynna blaze, the block

Design RENO ADDICT Shopping

Neale Whitaker’s 5 tips for a Block-tastic laundry renovation

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 19, 2015
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This season, contestants on The Block have been tasked with a massive challenge, to create stylish, functional spaces in an octagonal-shaped building. I don’t envy them!

Last week’s laundry reveals proved particularly interesting, with contestants embracing bold contrasts within the odd-shaped spaces to create unique, modern designs. Now judge Neale Whitaker shares his top tips for designing a Block-tastic laundry!

1. Laundries should take stylistic cues from the kitchen or bathroom

If you’re looking to mix things up in the laundry, be sure to use your kitchen or bathroom for inspiration in terms of tile choice, surfaces and colour palette.

2. Functionality is king

Dean and Shay's laundry - — Dean and Shay’s laundry – featuring the modern shade of Silestone with a 20mm edge.

With so much happening in the laundry, functionality needs to be at the centre of your design plan. Aesthetics are important but purpose is the primary consideration. Nobody says it shouldn’t look good but the laundry is a hard-working room! Dean and Shay have done this perfectly in their laundry, through the strategic positioning of their sink and in-built cabinetry over their bench space.

3. Think of your storage needs   

Kingi and Caro's laundry — Kingi and Caro’s laundry – featuring the speckled white of Silestone Blanco Maple Orna with a 20mm edge.

When designing your laundry it’s important to be realistic about your storage needs. Kingi and Caro have definitely thought about this in their design with both short and long cupboards in their space.

4. Neutral palettes are the safest option   

Luke and Ebony's Laundry - fetauring — Ebony and Luke’s Laundry – fetauring the stunning Silestone Ariel with a 20mm edge.

Your laundry needs longevity and durability, so neutral palettes are generally the best option. Ebony and Luke have done just that, partnering the muted tones of Silestone Ariel against dark tiling.

5. Non-porous surfaces are your best friend in the laundry

As the laundry is a high traffic and wet space, non-porous surfaces are a must. Four out of the five couples used Cosentino’s Silestone range, as it offers durability against water damage, stains, heat and even knocks and scratches.

For more on Cosentino.

Tags Cosentino, design, functionality, home reno, laundry, neale whitaker, renovation, silestone, the block

Design Expert Tips Kitchens RENO ADDICT

8 small kitchen design tips

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 14, 2015
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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.

Read all of Naomi’s articles | Read more about Naomi| Visit her website.

Tags design, expert tips, home reno, interiors, kitchen, kitchen tips, naomi findlay, renovating, small kitchen

Architecture Design RENO ADDICT Shopping

The Pod System: the perfect solution for renovators who need more space

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 9, 2015
No Comments on The Pod System: the perfect solution for renovators who need more space

Deciding whether to renovate or relocate is a big question. For many people, the benefits of renovating will win them over; think staying in the same area, avoiding the cost of moving and adding value to the existing home. However, renovating is not without its challenges and that is where The Pod System steps in.

An innovative renovation system that combines elegant, architectural design with CSR Hebel’s advanced building technology. The Pod System is a total renovation package, including design, construction, council application and insurance.

“The Pod System is a stylish and streamlined solution for those renovating,” explains leading architect Kim Crestani, one of the masterminds behind The Pod System. “It offers you an architecturally designed, no stress, time efficient, budget certain renovation, with minimal impact to your daily life.”

One of the most important considerations of a new renovation is the type of structural system – the external walls, internal walls and floors. These are the ‘bones’ of the home. At the heart of The Pod System is a quality masonry system that uses Hebel steel-reinforced autoclaved aerated (AAC) panels, an exceptional solid masonry building material with high performance standards including superior thermal, acoustic and fire resistant qualities.

POD System

With the aim to design beautiful, light filled spaces that would perfectly complement the existing home The Pod System combines high-end finishes, spacious rooms, high ceilings and walls of glass that bring the outside in. Each pod can be individually personalised to suit the home and style. There is a choice of multiple floor plans, internal finishes and external colours and cladding to create the perfect home.

The Pod System can also maintain the integrity of a home and suburb and is a great alternative for older, more established suburbs, where council has restricted knock downs and rebuilds, or limited additions to the first floor only.

The Pod System can be built much faster than a conventional renovation, and the homeowner is able to live at home whilst the pod is being built if services don’t need to be cut off or the existing bathroom or kitchen demolished. This saves stress, time and money, while adding value and space to the existing home.

For further information.

Tags csr hebel, design, finance, home reno, interior, interiors, renovating, the pod system