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Designers House Tours Interviews RENO ADDICT

Now THIS is how you do Hamptons decor in Australia!

Natalee Bowen has always been creative. At the age of 15, she started designing and selling clothes, a career she would have happily pursued if it wasn’t for her parents. “They told me they had spent way too much money on my private school education for me to just make clothes,” Natalee explains. “So they told me to go study! I couldn’t see the point in studying fashion as I was already making money from it, so the next obvious choice was to go and study interior design and I fell in love.”

A few years later, Indah Island was born. With a holistic approach to design, she works on new builds and renovations, as well as interior styling and custom furniture design. Her style is classic Hamptons with a Caribbean twist, an aesthetic that emerged after Natalee visited the US holiday destination. “Visiting the Hamptons, I realised that this was the look I had always emulated… Hamptons can be such an overused cliché in Australia, however the real look is in how you bring it all together. There are many styles within the American classic such as the glamorous Manhattan look to the traditional classic beach vibe. A mansion to a typical home can be styled with this look.”

Having designed homes across Australia, transforming her own Perth residence has been one of Natalee’s favourite projects. Adding a pool, an alfresco area, detailed balustrade work and decking, it was a chance for the designer to become the client. “It was great to experience what I put others through! It is a messy, noisy experience and it can also be a long and tedious ride but the results are amazing!”

Other career highlights include a beautiful house in a prestigious area of Perth, which she was involved in from initial design to final furnish. With the dream brief “just do what you would do if this was your home,” Natalee was on site for every breakthrough and setback. “When renovating, you start to peel away years of a home and it can reveal a load of issues. But if there weren’t dramas I would be worried; these create fast-thinking creative design ideas and great teamwork.”

It’s for this reason Natalee recommends clients have an interior designer or project consultant, as while trades read what’s on a plan, designers are paid to think outside the box. “My job is to be the advice-giver and problem-solver. You don’t want a client to be asked questions they don’t have the answers to or walk into their home and realise what they got is not what they wanted. A designer saves a lot of heartache and a lot of money in the long run.”

Now with a successful business behind her, Natalee’s biggest achievements of late have been on the silver screen. Alongside cameos on a range of interior design shows, she will star in Channel 9’s upcoming program Ready, Set, Reno. “In two episodes we are going to go through the entire renovation, up until the reveal. It will allow clients to see the process and the end result in each episode, which is fantastic.”

With many other exciting television projects underway it’s fair to say we haven’t seen the last of Natalee. So stay tuned, we may have the next Shaynna Blaze in our midst!

For more on Indah Island | Other designer profiles

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House Tours Interviews RENO ADDICT Smart Home Styling

Real reno: Breathing fresh life into a dated Sydney terrace

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There is such thing as too much choice, and when you own a furniture and homewares store and you’re attempting a home renovation, making a decision can be near to impossible. “Being exposed to so much every day made it hard as I’d love something then get sick of it quickly,” explains Andrew Algar, owner of Contents International Design. “So I tried hard to find different, natural finishes that wouldn’t date and would always be beautiful.”

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A once dated terrace in Sydney’s Bondi Junction, Andrew and his wife Michelle lived in the home for two years before starting work; a considerable time when you find out what they went through. “Whenever it rained, the kitchen was 10cm underwater so we always had kitchen shoes ready at the entrance… and then there was the very old, steep timber staircase that was a hard negotiation sober, let alone at night!”

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But living in the home for some time did have its benefits, with the couple changing their renovation plans once they got to know the space better. What was going to be an extension with some cosmetic changes instead became a full-blown demolition. “We soon realised most of what was there wasn’t worth building off, so we gutted it, only leaving the façade and side walls.”

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The major transformation, which saw the attic turn into a third floor complete with bedroom and study, took 11 months, a shock for the first-time renovators. “This was our first house and our first reno so we had no previous experience to compare it to,” says Andrew. “Anyone who’s renovated or done any building understands that the whole process is trying, but it’s all for a good cause and the end result will make all that go away.”

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Now, with a finished home, it’s difficult to pick a favourite part, though the staircase does get a special mention. “It’s a feature piece that is the centre of the home and links everything together. I am so happy with how it turned out, it was exactly as I’d imagined, just getting there was harder than I thought!”

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Also worthy of note are the attic windows, which ended up being a bargain that transformed the space. “In the attic, we originally had a single dormer window looking out the front. It wasn’t until the place was gutted that I took a ladder up and realised you could see Botany Bay across to Kurnell from there! So we changed the DA and put in a full size dormer window facing the other way.” Paying a small council fee and with the materials already accounted for, the room was completely converted for a low price. “It now has dramatically more space with a view and a heap more light that pours down the open staircase.”

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The finished product is a character home brought back to life. And in my opinion, new builds can never beat that!

Shop Contents International Design online (or at Sydney’s Moore Park).

For more beautiful homes

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Bedrooms Designers Dining Furniture RENO ADDICT Styling

Our 8 favourite homes of 2017 so far

We have featured some amazing homes so far, from fabulous seaside havens, to modern Victorian era homes. Here are our top 8 picks from the first half of the year.

Fenton & Fenton’s Melbourne marvel

Melbourne is the interior design capital of Australia – which is perfect for me, as I have just moved down here from Sydney. Call me biased for adding this one to the list, but Lucy Fenton’s home captures the heart of Melbourne with its bold textiles, statement artworks and magnificent pops of colour.

Colourful London terrace home

This one is an offshore feature. Located in London, this Victorian terrace boasts huge windows in the kitchen – the whole space is naturally basked in light, allowing it to show off its stunning teal blue cabinets (boy am I a sucker for teal blue in the kitchen). The use of such a bold colour against the more traditional exposed brick is a real winner.

Chic Sydney family abode

There is nothing worse than seeing a beautiful Victorian style home lose all of its old-world charm through a renovation. This home in Sydney’s east has a real mid-century modern feel to it, mixing in original pieces to complement the beauty of the old fireplaces and high ceilings.

Mediterranean inspired home

Featuring handmade clay tiles and bespoke rattan joinery, this Melbourne home exudes a luxurious modern Mediterranean style. The intricate, hand-cut mosaic tiles that feature around the fireplace and kitchen splashback are definitely the highlight – they give off a gorgeous pearl shimmer which is contrasted perfectly against the Australian timber kitchen island bench.

Creatively painted apartment

On the other end of the budget scale is this chic apartment that shows just how much you can transform a space with a simple (but well picked) coat of paint. Swapping out the stark white for a variety of soft greys bring the 1960’s two bedder into the present day. I particularly love their bold use of black on the kitchen cabinets – who said black was a no-go for small spaces?

Minimalist and monochrome

This Noosa home is referred to as the glass house – and if you take a look at the pictures, you will know why. The home features clean lines, a flat roof and a vast amount of full-height glass. The abundance of glass brings the outside in – the lines between the natural environment and the man-made one are blurred.

Traditional American design meets Chinoiserie

How do you keep up with every-changing design trends? You avoid them altogether and buy timeless pieces. This is the motto of owner Kate Walker, who has styled her home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula with décor that gives off a coastal chic feel. The space manages to feel light and breezy, with touches of nautical blue here and there, without falling into beachy clichés. Oh, and her garden is to die for.

Hunter collector

Stepping into Alex Zabotto-Bentley’s home, you would be forgiven for mistaking it for a gallery space. The motifs, art, collectables and furniture located within the inner-city Sydney home are a showcase of Bentley’s life, travels and love of the 1940’s neutral palette. Your home should be a reflection of you, where every piece tells a story or hints at a memory.

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Design RENO ADDICT

The study nook: finding the right spot in your home

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Whether you work from home, need somewhere to pay your bills, or your children need a homework area, a study nook is a hugely worthwhile addition to any home. From functionality to where exactly to locate it, there are key things to consider when planning on adding a study nook to your home.

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Location

Before you decide that you don’t have the space, remember that a study nook can be placed literally anywhere in a home – provided you’re comfortable with it and the environment is conducive to productivity. I’ve seen study nooks under staircases, in guest bedrooms, hallways, master bedrooms and more. There really are no rules when it comes to their location.

Mostly, the study nook’s location is largely dependent on space availability and the desired function of the space. Is it a home office to pay house hold bills? Is it somewhere you would like to have a computer and be able to see what your kids are up to? In this case in particular, it will need to be in a central living space – maybe even in the kitchen. However, if the space is to allow quiet study or private work away from the main part of the home, you need to consider the guest bedroom, end of a hallway or a secure indoor/outdoor room (obviously this is climate dependent) may even work.

Study NookImage source: Renovators Store

Functionality

Firstly, you obviously need space for a table or plinth and a chair too. You will mostly likely require power and possibly a phone line – though that is less of an issue these days. Connectivity is another important component – make sure it’s not in a mobile or Wi-Fi dead spot in the home. Storage is key – from bills and receipts to common stationery, you need somewhere to put all your desk top essentials.

I’m a big fan of built-in cabinetry, especially when it comes to storage (and streamlined good looks!), but I appreciate that budgets don’t always allow for it. Being able to conceal the mess, when the study isn’t in use, is ideal. Lighting is also very important. If you can locate your study nook close to a natural light source, that is ideal and task lighting is important too – especially if the study nook will be used at night time.

Lastly, I’m a big fan of space medicine – a term used to refer to the effect of your physical environment on you well-being. There’s good evidence to show that a cleverly considered environment not only increases productivity but focus and efficiency too – three very important factors for a study nook.

Study nook Image source: Houzz

—Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. Find out more about Naomi.

Read Naomi’s other articles.

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Bathrooms Before & Afters House Tours Real Renos RENO ADDICT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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Design RENO ADDICT Styling

Secrets of a property stylist: How to add value and attract buyers

There’s an art to selling a home and it doesn’t just involve finding the right real estate agent. A lust-worthy interior can have buyers lining up at the front door potentially adding tens-of-thousands of dollars to the sale price.

“We’re not just creating a look, we’re illustrating a lifestyle,” says property stylist Melissa Rice who launched The Hired Home after 14 years in the real estate industry. “More often than not, the first introduction a buyer has to the property is through the internet and if the photos are bland, with no furniture and no emotion, you will have less buyers there. People want to see colour and personality in a home because that’s how they want to live. Buyers don’t want to live in a white box.”

Having an on-trend, snap-worthy interior can add up to 30% to the value of the property and according to Melissa, it starts with a good declutter and refresh. “I think the biggest turn off is if the property doesn’t present well; the furniture is tired, the home is messy and dark. People want light and airy and bright,” she said.

“It’s so important to present the home to its full potential, not only in the look but the floor plan. If it’s a small bedroom apartment we will try to fit in a study nook and things like that, so everything is addressed.”

Melissa recommends sellers update light fittings, install new carpet and apply a fresh coat of paint before the home is listed. “When someone is living in a property it doesn’t matter how clean and tidy they are, it just gets tired. Even light switch covers; over time they start to discolour.”

The same rule applies when styling. “Once you start using a product it doesn’t look fresh and clean anymore,” said Melissa who recommends investing in new towels, curtains, white linen and accent cushions to really lift the home.

“In bedrooms I tell people they must pull the furniture off the walls. A lot of times people believe pushing beds to the corner of a room is going to make it feel bigger, it’s not. For shelving, we would probably style about 60% of the shelf, leaving space for the eye to rest. Not every space has to have something on it.”

You can find out more about Melissa and the The Hired Home here.

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RENO ADDICT

How to stay sane during your renovation!

They say moving house is the most stressful thing you can do. Well a top-to-bottom home renovation can’t be too far behind! But with a bit of planning and some considered decision-making, you can avoid tearing your hair out while you’re tearing walls down.

There’s no escaping the fact that there’ll be hurdles to overcome while your home gets the facelift it deserves. But a renovation isn’t a race; it’s more of an obstacle course designed to test your sanity.

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Stay put or move out?

Say you decide to move out prior to the process – consider your options carefully. Even the offer from your future parents-in-law. Staying with family rent-free while saving money is tempting, but a six-month stint in your other-half’s old bedroom could become more traumatic than the reno itself!

Perhaps in-laws aren’t an option. Consider renting a place close to your home on a short-let basis. There are loads of properties available at great rates on Airbnb nowadays, and you can negotiate even better deals for stays longer than a couple of weeks.

Drop down the dust sheets

If you can’t face the prospect of moving out, then you will find yourself waging a daily war on dust. Prepare your home as best you can for the impending renovation process. If you don’t fancy a regular session of lugging your furniture from room to room, it might make sense to rent some storage and keep things well out of harm’s reach.

Dust gets everywhere and there is no escaping it. But you can minimise it’s impact by taping down dust-sheets, and sealing doorways and staircases with polythene sheeting where you can. If possible ask you tradie to do any sanding outside, preferably downwind of your house.

Choose the right tradie

When it comes to selecting your tradie, don’t rush into the process. Doing some groundwork in the short-term will certainly pay-off in the long-term. Reputation, reviews and references carry a lot of weight in this industry, and remember – prevention is better than cure. And certainly a lot cheaper.

Going with the bargain-basement quote can be tempting but are you risking a major headache if you discover that corners have been cut down the line?

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Communicate with your tradie

Before work gets under way you’ll want to build a good rapport with your tradie. Of course he or she will be determined to do the best possible job, but good lines of communication are vital to ensure that you’re both singing from the same hymn sheet.

Even if you’ve planned down to the smallest details, you can’t guarantee things won’t go without a hitch. If you have an issue with any work throughout the process, be sure to air your thoughts straight away. Don’t let your concerns fester. The sooner you can work any problems out, the better for all concerned.

A certain level of flexibility on both sides is key. Your builder will expect you to change your mind once or twice on certain issues but just make sure they are kept fully in the loop with any alterations to the plan.

Remember, these things take time

If the renovation looks like it’s going to take longer than originally planned, try not to panic. Sure it’s not ideal but good things come to those who wait.

A tradie takes pride in his work and if that means the job taking extra couple of days then so be it. You could even use it as an opportunity for a romantic getaway before returning, de-stressed, to your brand-new home.

–Owen Fulda is a content marketer at hipages.com.au, Australia’s number one site to hire tradies and the perfect place to get quotes for your home renovation.

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Bathrooms Kitchens RENO ADDICT Shopping

Dekton launches wood-look, industrial inspired & high gloss options

Engineered stone company Cosentino Australia has expanded its Dekton offering with the launch of six new industrial-inspired shades and the super luminous Dekton XGloss which, like the rest of the Dekton range, can be used to create countertops, flooring and cladding and can be used outside too.

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XGloss bench tops in Blaze

The new XGloss range retains the same technical features as the brand’s other offerings (think stain and thermal resistance and water-repellence) but offers high shine. “This commitment stems from an awareness of a growing demand for lustrous, dramatic colours in the world of design, and the realisation that the high-shine materials available in the market until now do not perform well. We therefore wanted to combine beauty with high durability and stain resistance,” says Cosentino product and innovation director Valentin Tijeras.

Dekton®_ color Lumina de XGLOSS_Living Room

Floor in XGloss Lumina

The XGloss collection comes in five colours ranging from pure white to solid black. Halo is a a bright white colour with crystal shine that reflects light, making spaces seem larger while Splendor is a restrained soft grey, ideal for modern kitchens. Dark grey in colour, Blaze has a lovely, subtle metallic finish and Lumina is a very warm, earthy brown.

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Dekton Valterra Flooring and Sensa Orinoco countertop

Inspired by natural and industrial finishes, the new Dekton colours are an interesting bunch too. Ideal for industrial-themed interiors, the new Dekton Blanc Concrete shade looks like concrete but, unlike the real thing, it won’t deteriorate over time. And for those wanting a truly original finish, the Dekton Trilium option is inspired by metal oxides – a mix of volcanic colours it features intense grey and black tones speckled with light contrasts. We love the matte finish.

Dekton Kitchen - Trilium

Dekton countertop in Trilium

The new colours extend into a wood-inspired offering too – Dekton Valterra combines cream with brown hues in a lineal design while Dekton Aldem is a gorgeous gray wood finish.

Dekton Kitchen - Aldem

Dekton countertop in Aldem

See here for more.

 

 

 

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Designers Furniture Homewares Styling

IKEA & Katie Eary’s out of this world homewares collection

To be frank, IKEA’s latest collection, GILTIG, is absolutely cray-cray. A unique collaboration with London-based menswear designer Katie Eary, the range of tableware and home textiles is guaranteed to turn up the senses.

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Full of gobsmacking patterns (I’m talking googly-eyed fish, blood-red brains and startled-looking cats), Katie herself will tell you her work is in your face, over the top and too much. But that’s just how she likes it. “I always make the reference to contemporary artists such as Damien Hirst and Sarah Lucas. Their work has too much colour, is overtly sexual and there are dead animals everywhere. They turn everything upside down and leave you with a feeling of love or hate. That’s the feeling I want to emulate in my work.”

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Limited edition, the GILTIG collection is the first in a series of collaborations with fashion designers – and a way for IKEA to explore new ways of thinking. While Katie had never designed home furnishings, as a print-based designer, who favours unique patterns and colour mixes – all made possible through digital printing, it seemed like a natural progression. “GILTIG was always going to be a print-based collection. The idea of creating something amazing on screen and knowing it’s going to look the same when you put it on a product is very appealing to someone like me. Digital print is photo real whereas 2D print is just so basic and boring. I want the colour to make the eyes hurt, that’s what I always say.”

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Made up of plates, cups, bowls, lamp shades, cushion covers, tea towels, aprons and tote bags (and a great deal more), Katie believes a good home is not about having lots of flashy things, but about having things that complement your personality. “A decade or so ago, you could get an idea about who a person was from their CDs or books. Now it seems that, as far as the home goes, furniture and personal bits and pieces are the last things left that show your true identity. When you walk into a home, it’s like you’re walking into that person’s brain.”

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With a collection that’s based on a mad dinner party with fish that jump off the plates, bowls that look you in the eye and cups brimming with cats, it’s sure to make your home stand out from the rest.

Available from April.

For more information.

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Design Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

Timber and aluminium combine for beautiful and durable doors

Timber and aluminium doors both bring so much to a home, it’s difficult deciding which to go with. Timber is insulating and adds a traditional touch, while aluminium is so fantastically durable and modern.

If you’re struggling with the choice, check out Stegbar’s Siteline composite doors and windows. They combine the two!

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Featuring wooden interiors, you can get the warm and classy look that is so unique to good quality timber. Both the western red cedar and pine options are beautiful woods. If you want to really showcase that wood grain, you can also get it stained rather than painted.

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Heading outside, the aluminium exterior frames look contemporary and are super practical and durable. You’ve got to love that they’re virtually maintenance free! They’re anodised, powder-coated and waterproof.

Even better, the most common problem faced by aluminium door owners is minimised by the wooden interior. You can keep your heat in winter and lose it in summer.

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In fact, Siteline products can withstand most weather events. They’re fireproof and treated to resist water saturation. This means they open and close easily without swelling and warping every time.

Stegbar’s national marketing manager, Christine Evans, thinks that environmental and energy conscious renovators in particular will love the composite range. “Due to the properties of the timber, which is sourced from environmentally sustainable forests, energy-efficient glass and single or double glazing options, the windows and doors can help to achieve a six-star energy rating or higher.”

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There’s plenty of styles to choose from, too. The composites come in bi-fold, awning, casement, sliding and fixed window models, and bi-fold hinged and sliding doors. Not sure which suits you best? The Stegbar Installation Service team are experts at working out what glazing best suits your local conditions, and have lots of tips of product selection too.

Want more information? Check out Stegbar’s site

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RENO ADDICT

How to: Live in your home during renovations without losing your mind

When you’re renovating your home yourself, it can be a time-consuming and costly endeavour. However, these costs don’t stop at your bank account. A major renovation can also take its toll on you and compromise your family’s sanity. Read on for four tips that can help you survive the process without going completely crazy.

Construction

Use a shipping container for storage

If you moved into your new home using a shipping container, this can be an ideal place to store your belongings throughout the renovation process. Rather than squeezing that extra sofa into your guest bedroom, you can store it in the container, where it is out of your way. There is already going to be enough chaos in your home with the renovation, so there is no need to make it worse with excess clutter. This extra storage also has the added bonus of keeping your belongings protected from the dust and debris that the renovation can create.

You can also rent or buy shipping containers to extend your house and create a pretty cool looking outdoor room or a special man-shed to keep the males of the house happy.

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Send the kids to grandma’s house

If you have children, try to arrange for them to stay elsewhere during the renovations, with family members or close friends. The chaos and disorder of the renovation can be highly stressful and confusing for children, especially younger ones. Not to mention the potential hazards brought about by a DIY job.

These can include exposed wiring, uncovered nails and power tools lying around. If you are constantly worried about your child’s safety, you will not be able to focus on getting the work done, and the whole project can end up taking even longer than expected. To be on the safe side, it is wiser to just have the kids stay somewhere else where they will be out of harm’s way and they’ll probably have a much better time being spoiled by Grandma and Grandad anyway!

Create a plan before you start

You’ll probably begin your renovation project with tons of drive and motivation, thinking you can get it done in just a week or so. However, as the project drags on and unexpected delays pop up, your attention span dwindles and your motivation wanes.

Every day your project sits there unfinished is another day you have to live in an incomplete, disorganised home. To help combat this, develop a clear plan for how you will complete the project. Create a schedule or to-do list for each day and force yourself to stick to it. Pretend you’re on The Block if you have to!

Not only will this help you to stay on track and get the renovation completed in a timely manner, it also gives you a light at the end of the tunnel. It can be highly motivating to check items off your list each day so you can clearly see the progress you are making. Knowing that there is an official end in sight can give you the extra push you need to see the project through to completion.

Organisation

Designate an area in your home as a construction-free zone

Renovating can upset your life in many ways, so it is important that you have an escape from all the chaos. Choose an area of your home that will be your sanctuary. Keep it as neat and clutter-free as possible, because the last thing you want is to leave one messy room for another. Resist the urge to store items from the room under renovation in this area (remember the first tip about your shipping container). Your construction-free zone should be your escape, so try to make it as comfortable and relaxing as possible. When you’re feeling overly stressed, this small respite can be just what you need to find the drive to finish the renovation.

No matter what you do, a renovation will be challenging both physically and emotionally, but the above tips can help you weather the storm. Whenever you feel like you are lacking in motivation, just imagine the finished project and how much better your life will be once it is done. This can give you the motivation needed to finish the renovation and get on with your life in your new home.

Author Bio: This article was written by Clive Smith the interstate removals general manager for Budget Self Pack Containers.

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RENO ADDICT

How to go from bidder to winner: auction strategies to land you a property in 2016

Attending an auction, with the intention to bid, can be a nerve racking experience to say the least. You’re about to compete, in public and at a cost; however, the ultimate cost is at your own discretion. Bidding is an art, and if perfected, can see you outdo the guy who rolled up in the shiny Merc and tripled the first bid.

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Image source: Your Property Hound
  1. Have your finances pre-approved: Secure a loan package with a competitive interest rate – and do so beforehand so you know your budget and can bid with confidence (and not just emotion) when you rock up on auction day.
  1. Bid in odd numbers: a simple trick that can be extremely effective. Typically bids will go up in even increments. If bids begin to falter at $500,000, then bid $503,000. You could just manage to win the auction at a fraction of your foreseen cost by avoiding round numbers.
  1. Have three prices in mind: A price you believe would be an absolute bargain to pick up the property, another you consider to be the true value, and a final that would be the absolute maximum you could afford. Auctioneers fuel off overbearing emotions. By dissecting the value, you’re effectively allowing yourself to participate in the auction from a stable and sensible position.
  1. Be an alternate-bidder: If the bid is increasing in $5,000 or $10,000 increments, try to slow bidding by going up by only $1,000 or $2,000; likewise, if bidding has slowed down and is going up in only small increments, try to blow the other bidders out of the water with one last powerful bid. Either way, you’re breaking the pattern and by doing so, manipulating the process to your advantage.
  1. Remain cool and confident: Ask the auctioneer or selling agent questions that might deter the hesitant, auction-novice. Mention the body-corporate fees, or ask for an update on the local capital works. Expressing your knowledge could be the difference between leaving with a new property or leaving without. Make calm eye contact with other bidders, transmit your confidence through your body language even if inside you’re as nervous as the rest of them!

–Bessie writes for finder.com.au, one of Australia’s largest comparison websites. She is passionate about real estate, renovating, and helping Australians find better.

Categories
Designers House Tours

Stunning coastal townhouses yours for $1.95 million each!

As what happens pretty much everyday of work, I have some serious home envy. My latest obsession? 30 Esplanade, a boutique collection of townhouses in Brighton, Melbourne.

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Starting at $1.95 million (I know, bargain!), each of the 24 luxury homes feature three bedrooms plus a study and range from 250sqm to 300sqm.

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Developed by SC Land, in conjunction with award-winning architecture practice Wood Marsh and interior designer Kendra Pinkus, in what is an absolute rarity, each home has been fully built and completed ahead of the public launch.

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A sculptural masterpiece, merging urban architecture with coastal living, the convex and concave facades – a nod to the wind filled sail boats bobbing in the adjacent bay – create movement and filter in an abundance of light. Meanwhile, vertical iterations on the lower levels achieve a high sense of privacy and promote cross ventilation.

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Whether walking along this tree-lined strip or reclining on a rooftop terrace, these linear shapes are seen to weave together the fabric of the complex in a single expression of raw precision. Crafted out of marine teak, they will age naturally and fade to a delicate grey.

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This monochromatic tonality is softened inside, where blonde timber features, bronze-mirrored kitchen splashbacks and pale European oak floors provide warmth. Matte black metal balusters introduce a modernity to the urban beach houses, creating a dramatic effect as they rise, uninterrupted, through each of the three floors.

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Echoing these lines and emphasising the vertical element of the facade, timber panelling wraps around the kitchen, effectively zoning the living, dinning and entertaining areas. These spaces flow effortlessly out onto landscaped courtyards and balconies that lend themselves to relaxed entertaining.

Ready to move in? To arrange an inspection or for further information visit the website.

Categories
Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT

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.

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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.

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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.

CoolDrawer
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.

Fisher & Paykel CoolDrawer
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.

Categories
Architecture Design RENO ADDICT

The future is here with virtual reality display home tours

In an Australian first, Metricon Homes is set to transform the way that people experience and interact with display homes, with the use of virtual reality technology.

Denver 46 – Master BedroomMetricon Homes Denver display home – master bedroom

The virtual display experience will be offered in select regional areas where people face the geographical challenges of visiting a display home. Not only will this save them time but also the inconvenience of travelling huge distances as many people travel interstate to view their future home.

Metricon Virtual Reality head set in use

Virtual reality headset

Consumers can view everything from the colours and materials used on cabinetry through to soft furnishings and light fittings through a virtual reality headset.

“The technology enables our customers to virtually walk through the home and really experience the actual interior. Virtual reality allows you to gaze inside the latest trends and home styles allowing you to select your dream space and colour palette,” says Jacinta Evans, Metricon senior interior designer.

It also allows home designs that are located in other states to be viewed around the country without the need for building a display.

Denver 46 – Vogue FacadeMetricon Homes Vogue display home

“We know consumers love the next-gen 3D virtual tours on our website, so being able to take these to another dimension, using virtual reality technology is fantastic,” says Jacinta.

The first area to experience this technology is Wonthaggi in Victoria’s south-east.

To view the technology see https://youtu.be/vN16M2RZ8k4 or visit Metricon Homes.

Categories
Expert Tips Furniture Homewares Styling

5 tips for easy upcycling in your home

By Sarah Heeringa

We can all get tired of how a room looks and want to switch it out for something else. These days we can choose to decorate our homes in pretty much any style we like. But rather than just tossing furniture or other homewares and replacing them with new things, I like to refashion what I have into a new look and then mix it with other new or vintage items that have caught my eye. It’s a popular new trend called reclaimism.

Sarah
Sarah

Upcyling or reclaimism is the art of giving old things new value. It’s about using our imagination to fix things up and personalise objects to our own liking and changing taste. With upcycling, we can surround ourselves with things that express our personal style, that have meaning for us and that tell a story. And I believe that it’s the addition of these personal touches that really help make a house feel like a home.

Here are five easy tips for getting started:

1. Choose something simple to start 

The best way to embark on any creative project is simply to begin and where better than with choosing a picture frame or an old piece of furniture you would like to reclaim?

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2. Use your imagination

Have a good look at the piece of furniture and imagine how it might look given different paint treatments. What if it was given a rustic whitewash or painted glossy black?

SarahHeeringa 53. Try whitewashing

It’s amazing how a piece of furniture can be transformed with a sand and a coat of paint. One simple technique is to give wooden objects a light sand and a good clean and then a coat of paint using a whitewashing technique.

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4. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

One way to achieve a whitewash effect is to use a rough old brush and quick, light brushstrokes. If there is too much paint, rub some off using an old cloth. Give yourself permission to try something new and maybe make a few mistakes. The best way to get the hang of different paint techniques is to roll up your sleeves and give it a go.

Once you have practiced your paint techniques on a rumpty old piece, you’ll have the skills to try something more ambitious. This kitchen bench is made with a solid slab of wood and painted with a less rustic whitewash effect and then sealed with a water-based clear sealer.

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5. Switch it out

Sometimes upcycling is about simply using an existing piece of furniture in a different way. What if you moved an item of furniture from one room to another and gave it a new purpose? This big old wooden hutch dresser was a great addition to my kitchen where storage space was short. But this cabinet is now just as useful in its new role in my studio as a place to stash tools and craft supplies.

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— Sarah Heeringa is an award-winning journalist and editor with a keen interest in homemaking and interior style. Formerly editor of Inspire, Parenting and Good magazine, she is the author of Reclaim That, which invites you to find a new and extremely cost-effective way to furnish your home.

Categories
Architecture Before & Afters Design Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

How a new roof transformed a home from mess to manor house

Before

Sitting vacant for 15 years, a once abandoned sandstone cottage in Sydney’s Hunter’s Hill has been given a new lease of life, transformed from its original, derelict state into a stunning home.

Before
Before

Featuring a heavily deteriorated shingle cedar roof, with exposed sarking and damaged timber beam supports, it was in need of significant attention. Internally it was dated and needed a new ceiling, walls, bathroom, kitchen and doors.

After
After

Wanting to retain the historic design of the home, architect Sam Tadros of Manor House Design Australia, focused on maintaining the integral parts of the home. “It’s rare that homes like this are built anymore, with this level of detail and character. As part of this vision I was focused on maintaining the design scheme of the external perimeter and existing structural elements, most importantly the sandstone walls.”

However, what needed to go immediately was the roof, which as a result of the home being sunken from the road is one of the first things you see on approach. “I considered a number of roofing options, but the decision ultimately came down to the aesthetics that complemented the sandstone and were the best value at the time. I chose Boral Terracotta Shingle roof tiles in the dark toned Eclipse to complement the yellow sandstone.”

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After

Aesthetically speaking, terracotta is a natural material and as a result has some variation in shape and colour to add texture and depth. This avoids the look of having one big flat roof section and is softer on the eyes. This is difficult to achieve with ceramic or metal roofing, which has a very solid, manufactured and consistent look. The proportion of the tiles, being smaller than sheet metal or large slabs of slate, also worked perfectly with the size of the sandstone blocks.

After
After

Other important factors for Sam were flexibility and cost-efficiency: “I wanted to retain the original copper down pipes and gutters – copper is for life – so I had to select a roofing material that could be integrated with these. As part of the project, additional timber beams were required to support the extra weight of the terracotta tiles, however even factoring in those costs, terracotta fell within budget and proved a cost-effective option.”

For more information.

Categories
Design DIY Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Blockheads Kyal and Kara’s 8 mini makeover ideas for summer

Kyal and Kara

The summer entertaining season is fast approaching and while it’s great to fling open the doors to welcome family and loved ones – those unfinished renovation jobs are on stark display!

Kyal and Kara
Kyal and Kara

Renovating is not just about the big-ticket bathroom and kitchen facelifts. You can have some nip and tucks along the way to keep your space fresh and create a visual distraction from the less attractive areas of your home.

The Block and Reno Rumble favourites Kyal and Kara have got some great ideas on how to deflect away from the unfinished work and turn your home into a sparkling entertaining oasis. Below are their top eight mini makeover ideas for summer:

  • Give your tiles a clean. Generally, a solution of vinegar and water should do the trick. If there is a build-up of soap scum, a heavy-duty tile and grout cleaner will assist to strip it off but avoid abrasive cleaners. To clean tile grout, mix a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water and gently scrub grout with an old toothbrush. For deeper cleaning, mix a paste of baking soda and water and work into the grout. Spray the vinegar and water solution over the area. It will bubble up and work away scrum. Rinse with warm water. Repeat.
  • Freshen up your home’s front entry. Make an instant statement by sweeping and dusting cobwebs from all those nooks and crannies. Paint the front door a contrasting and bright colour – like an orange, yellow or light blue! Place an exotic plant at the entrance to complement your new door for an eye-catching impact.

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  • Update your home’s facade. Contrasting materials on facades are trending. You can tile a section to add or highlight an architectural feature and update the look of your house.
  • Simplify your space. Spaces that are free of clutter are more calming so reduce the clutter in your central rooms. Use the three box system: one box for items that belong in another room, one box for charity and one box for sales. If you need extra storage build some shelving brackets and use ply wood in a wardrobe or in the garage.

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  • Create a feature wall. There are many ways to create an arty feature to draw the eyes. Shaped or textured tiles are on trend with patterned tiles a great alternative to wallpaper. With the right adhesive and original tiles in reasonable shape, they can be tiled straight over for a quick tiling job
  • Create a herb planter. Make sure you always have the herbs you need for those delicious summer feasts – the smell is also divine! Use recycled hardwood fence palings or crates and create your own. Place it somewhere in view and get your guests to pick some herbs for you as a great distraction for wondering eyes.
  • Turn heads with your luxurious driveway. Concrete driveways or paths can be tiled over for an instant luxurious look to add value to your home and outdoor entertaining areas.

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  • Freshen up the kitchen with a new splashback. A new splashback is an extravagant quick fix. Try a dramatic statement with mosaic tiles. In a stark kitchen use loads of colours and in a busy one, go simple. Whatever colour you choose for your splashback bring it through the room with cushions or a beautiful vase.

For more information, visit Beaumont Tiles.