Tag: kitchen reno

Real Reno: Three Birds Renovations share latest six-week flip

Post author By Lauren Ellis
Post date September 22, 2016
2 Comments on Real Reno: Three Birds Renovations share latest six-week flip

Presenting Part 2 of the tour through our six-week transformation of House 4. Before we begin, did you know that a combined kitchen, living, dining space is called a Great Room? I only learnt that the other day #thanksgoogle.

So here is our Great Room …. plus a staircase!

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KITCHEN

How did we make it so much bigger? There was an external laundry sitting on the other side of the wall with the cooktop on it so we knocked through it and stole that floor space to make it part of the kitchen with our trade mark gas strut window.

Where are those stools from? Those Oz Design tractor stools set our social media on fire when we shared the pics.

Why is the bottom shelf not aligned to the bottom of the overhead cupboards – was it a mistake? No that wasn’t a mistake. It was a design choice we made to give the kitchen a slightly more open and relaxed feel than if the shelf was aligned with the cupboards.

Budget buy? The picked up the pendants from our local hardware store.

LIVING

What transformed this room the most? You can see from the pics that we didn’t change the shape or size of this room, but it looks completely different as a result of the fresh white paint (our staple – Taubmans Snow Drop) and white-wash laminate flooring (from our local hardware store). The styling also helped a bit 😉

Is that a double rug? We’re loving this trend right now. On face value it seems a bit silly to put one rug on top of another, but forget about the practicality of it – it looks divine and brings a warm, layered feeling to the room.

DINING

How did we make the space so much bigger? The original wall on the left ended up in the skip bin and this allowed us to stretch the dining space across two rooms. The double set of French doors allowed an abundance of natural light to fill the room and we spent a lot of time looking for a dining table that was not too big, not too small.

Where are those matching dining chairs from? Those Chinese bamboo chairs belong to one of our Instagram followers. We ran a competition to find a piece of old furniture to upcycle and feature it in our house. We painted and re-upholstered them and the best bit was giving them back to their owner, Fiona, once the house was sold.

What type of flooring is that? White wash oak laminate.

STAIRS

What did we do to the stairs? We actually didn’t do much to the original staircase in terms of the balustrade and treads. We didn’t touch them. We cut back the wall on the right to open up access to the kitchen and then used the recessed space underneath to build in a bench seat and create a welcoming reading nook with its own lamp. The Scyon wall cladding was the finishing touch to add further dimension and texture.

Are white stairs practical? We painted the balustrade and treads white but if you use the right paint like an Ultra-Enamel it should withstand the wear and tear. Having said that, the treads could be easily rejuvenated with a DIY fresh coat of paint twice a year to keep them looking amazing.

With House 4 complete, we’re already busy working away on the next reno!To see how the first few weeks are unfolding tune into Three Birds TV here. Erin’s far too calm as the foreman (is she serious? Bonnie’s designing the house on the hop (is SHE serious?) and I continue to add little value onsite, providing a few too many “Oh My God!” moments (and the sad thing is, I’m serious).

–Lana Taylor is one third of Three Birds Renovations alongside Bonnie Hindmarsh and Erin Cayless, and one of our Resident Experts. The best friends and busy mums walked away from their corporate careers in pursuit of a more fulfilling life. They created Three Birds Renovations – a boutique renovation company where they buy, renovate and sell suburban homes. Their ultimate ambition is to build a life they love, hoping to inspire others to do the same.

Read all Three Birds Renovations’ posts.

Tags before and after, design, diy, home reno, home renovation, kitchen reno, real estate, real reno, renovation, styling, three birds

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Real Reno: Tired kitchen transformed into modern masterpiece

Post author By Lauren Ellis
Post date September 20, 2016
2 Comments on Real Reno: Tired kitchen transformed into modern masterpiece

Building a kitchen from scratch, while raising a baby and toddler, was always going to be difficult! But the Tasker family have done just that with remarkable results.

“It’s a very classy feel with industrial undertones,” said busy mum Sarah, who helped her husband Dean make all the design decisions from appliances, to lighting and fittings. “My husband’s a cabinetmaker so we designed everything together and were able to do a lot of the work ourselves. We fell in love with Calacatta Blanco by Smartstone and based our entire renovation around this stone. We used it for the benchtops and splashback in the kitchen and carried through to the vanity in the bathroom,” she said.

The renovation took six weeks including the removal of a large wall to open up the kitchen and living area. “The first decision was easy, remove the massive wall and open it up and let the light through and wow! What a difference it’s made! Now when you walk in the entrance you really get a wow factor,” said Sarah who purchased the three-bedroom home in Miranda NSW before it went to auction. “It had a lot of character with its raised ceilings and original floorboards but was extremely dated. We saw potential right away.”

Excluding appliances, the kitchen renovation cost the husband and wife duo around $20-25,000. “The joinery is an investment but you just cannot beat good quality that lasts. I think the pewter pendant lights and saddle stools really add a lot of character and tie it all together,” Sarah said.

“Once you start a reno though it’s hard to stop and one thing leads to the next! We planned on doing the kitchen and bathroom and that led into a whole lot more,” said Sarah who has been overwhelmed with compliments from family and friends. “We have been getting such positive feedback and I couldn’t be happier with the result. Having a home that flows and is easy to keep clean and organised makes all the difference in the world to us!”

As for advice for would-be renovators, Sarah suggests taking paint and material samples with you when deciding on other finishes for your home. “Choosing the right colours is so, so, so important and can make all the difference. Start from the bottom, like the floor, and work your way up.”

Contact Tasker Joinery here.

Tags before and after, construction, design, diy, home reno, home renovation, kitchen, kitchen reno, real reno, reno, renovating

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Real reno: Neglected semi overhauled in just eight weeks with stunning results

Post author By Lauren Ellis
Post date September 15, 2016
No Comments on Real reno: Neglected semi overhauled in just eight weeks with stunning results

A rundown two-bedroom semi in Sydney’s inner west has been transformed from ugly duckling to swan in just two months by a seasoned renovator with a budget of $100,000.

“It literally felt like a real life The Block with all the tears, laughter and successes but without the cameras,” says owner Judith Treanor who completed the overhaul while running her interior design business.

“The home was in desperate need of tender loving care and in original condition. Ceilings were cracked, windows were rotting, kitchen was falling apart, bathroom was tiny and impractical, wiring was exposed, garden had been neglected with uneven concrete. It was possible to see the potential however.”

A first-time flipper, Judith made a $54,000 profit on the renovation which included a new bathroom, bamboo floors, fresh coat of paint and opening up the kitchen and laundry to give buyers direct access to the backyard. “The all white L-shaped contemporary kitchen including breakfast bench and in-built laundry cupboard brightened up the formerly drab living area immensely and brought the house bang up to date,” she said.

The backyard is now unrecognisable. “It’s a real oasis in the city,” says Judith who completed the landscaping, including laying the pavers and installing planter boxes herself with help from family and friends. “If you’re able to get involved in some of the work where feasible, do – not only does this save you money but it gives you a great sense of pride and achievement.”

Renovation hiccups included uneven floors in the kitchen and damage to the drainage system and electrical circuitry. “I love to create beautiful spaces. However if I was to flip a property again I would stick to one requiring only aesthetic changes not structural. When renovating a house of this age and condition you need to have a big buffer in the budget for unforeseen circumstances,” said Judith.

Unexpected costs aside, as an interior designer the biggest challenge she faced was resisting the urge to splurge. “I wanted this to be a stunning showcase for the business whilst simultaneously keeping to a strict budget as the plan was to sell for profit.

“It almost goes without saying but renovating a home for profit is vastly different to renovating a home to live in. It’s hard to not want to go with your heart and create a design masterpiece but you need to appeal to the market. However I’d also say that doesn’t mean going completely neutral as you risk your property being forgotten alongside all the other homes a buyer may have inspected on the same Saturday.”

As for advice for other would-be renovators, Judith says “when choosing a builder don’t make the mistake of going with the one who quotes low to get you to sign the contract. This so often ends up becoming the most expensive as they will create variations at every turn. Make sure the scope of works from each trade is very through and detailed.”

Visit Judith’s online store.

Tags bathroom, before and after, building, construction, design, home reno, home renovation, kitchen reno, landscaping, real estate, real reno, reno, renovating

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Real reno: Gorgeous Melbourne apartment renovated for just $45,000!

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date June 16, 2016
No Comments on Real reno: Gorgeous Melbourne apartment renovated for just $45,000!

Interior designer Lauren Macer of Sisalla Interior Design opened her home for us recently to reveal her lovely and low-cost renovation that took place over just two months. Untouched since the 1970’s the Melbourne beachside apartment renovation mixes luxe with affordable finds to great effect – we especially love the blue IKEA cabinetry and brass tap ware in the renovated kitchen. What fabulous, original choices!

Before kitchen

After kitchen

“I selected a soft turquoise colour for the kitchen cabinets that reflected the Scandi look I was going for. The cupboard doors are around $20 each so if I wish to swap them down the track it’s not a huge expense. However, I still love the colour so I’m so happy with trying something slightly unexpected. The key is to mix IKEA with other items, such as the tumbled brass tapware and unique door hardware,” says Lauren.

After kitchen – we love the brass details

From changing the kitchen’s faux-wooden laminate cabinets, benchtop, electric stove and mission brown tiles to relocating the laundry and making cosmetic changes to the walls in the lounge and kitchen/dining areas, the renovation completely modernised the kitsch original design.

Before lounge room

After lounge room

“Let’s just say the design was original! The laundry was situated through the rear of the kitchen in its own room which caused the kitchen to be dark and very narrow. There was a nook no larger than a metre wide for a dining table to seat two people. There was a linen closet in the lounge room which was a typical design during this era and a 1970’s archway that separated the lounge from the bathroom and bedrooms. There was a separate shower and bathtub and the space was so tight that the basin and bench sat over the top of the bath!” says Lauren.

Before dining

After dining

Lauren also added lighting and wallpaper to the bedrooms and carried out all the renovations herself with the help of her husband and a friend. “In the lounge room we turned the linen closet inside out so it was inside the toilet instead for toiletries and towels. We took down the existing plaster walls and installed v-groove wood panels to add interest and texture. We squared off the old archway and installed a barn style sliding door which helped insulate the lounge and isolate noises to other parts of the house. We were able to reclaim quite a lot of space in the bathroom by deciding to remove the shower and put it over the bath,” says Lauren who installed a wall mounted double vanity and European laundry in there too.

Before bedroom

After bedroom

After bathroom

After nursery

See more of Lauren’s work here.

Tags bathroom, bathroom design, before and after, design, home reno, home renovation, interior design, interior designer, interiors, kitchen, kitchen reno, melbourne, real reno, reno, renovating, renovation, styling

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

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date June 15, 2016
No Comments on 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.

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.

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.

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 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 countertop in Aldem

See here for more.

Tags bathroom, bathroom design, building, Cosentino, counter top, dekton, design, flooring, home, home reno, home renovation, interiors, kitchen, kitchen reno, reno, renovating, renovation

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Five quick-fix renos to boost your property price

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date June 10, 2016
1 Comment on Five quick-fix renos to boost your property price

Need to sell your property, fast? If you only have a couple of weeks until open inspection, these reno ideas will make a big difference to the sale price.

Describing a property as a ‘renovator’s delight’ no longer has the romantic overtones it once did. If you need to sell your place quickly, hiring a property stylist who can highlight areas of interest for buyers with well-chosen, well-placed furniture and accessories, as well as good lighting is the best value for money.

But if you have a fortnight up your sleeve before open home and want to make some changes, here are five quick renovations you can make if you don’t have time for a full upgrade.

Image source: Pinterest

Paint

A fresh coat of paint can liven up a property and even help to highlight some of its features. But a paint job isn’t just a matter of making the walls and ceiling look new, it should also be used to neutralise the look of the property as that helps the stylist add value.

Buyers want to see themselves in the place and you’re more likely to attract them if you give them a blank canvas for their vision rather than keeping that bright purple in the bedroom, funky as it may have been at the time it was painted.

Time required: Depends on the size of the property, how many coats and whether you want to do it yourself or hire professionals, but anywhere from 1-2 days to 1-2 weeks.

Image source: Pinterest

Replace, don’t renovate

Even a quick kitchen and bathroom renovation can take up to eight weeks so if you only have two weeks to play with, what should you do? Identify what looks the most dated and seek to replace parts and resurface fixtures rather than do a complete renovation.

Instead of gutting the kitchen, this might mean spray painting a tired looking splashback. In the bathroom, spraying tiles and resurfacing the bath or shower recess can make a huge difference.

In both places, replacing old tap fittings can instantly make sinks look newer, and while you’re doing the changeover you can also fix any minor leaks. Also consider replacing the handles to pantry cupboards, cutlery drawers and vanity compartments.

Time required: A few hours to a couple of days.

Image source: Pinterest

A grand entrance

Make a great first impression by focusing your efforts on the entrance to your home. Clean and tidy the entrance by removing debris, fixing the wobbly step and giving it a lick of paint. If you have greenery leading up to the house, landscape it.

Time required: A few hours to a day.

Opening doors

Speaking of entrances, doors can make a big impact so make sure they open and shut smoothly, without creaking, and the surfaces are free from scratches and dents.

Consider replacing the doors completely if they look dated, shabby or cheap. For the cost of a few quality doors you can transform your property significantly.

Time required: If you have the replacement doors ready, a day.

Floor them

Worn, stained or wonky floors are highly noticeable, ruining the look of the property. You might be able to get away with a rug or a floor runner but if you can’t and need to replace the carpet or add floating floor boards, do it before your open home to make the place fresh from the ground up.

Time required: Professionals can replace the floors of a two-bedder in around 1-2 days. It’ll take longer for bigger properties or if you want to DIY.

Renovations don’t need to be big time-consuming projects. There are always little things that can make a big difference to the sales price of a property if you’re short on time.

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

Read all Mark’s articles. Got a question for Mark?

Tags diy, flooring, Garden, gardening, home reno, home renovation, interiors, kitchen reno, landscaping, mark foy, property, real estate, renos, renovate, renovate to sell, renovating for profit, renovation

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Real reno: This Sydney home went from drab to fab

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date May 11, 2016
1 Comment on Real reno: This Sydney home went from drab to fab

The renovations on this family home were so extensive that the resulting abode is unrecognisable from its humble beginnings. Situated in the leafy Sydney suburb of Woollahra, the process took place over 12 months and had a sizeable budget. The owners needed more space for their expanding brood and they wanted to make the home more light-filled and functional too – their brief was certainly met!

BEFORE exterior

AFTER exterior

“The home was a hideous brick box with no character whatsoever. The internal layout was also inadequate and not functional,” says the owner, who engaged the company Modify to manage the entire process, including preparing plans and managing the Development Application process with council – a lovely job to outsource! “They also managed the interior specifications and the construction process too so it was an end to end assignment,” says the owner.

BEFORE lounge

AFTER lounge

The home was entirely gutted and the floor plans were changed completely too – the relocation of a staircase and the addition of a multitude of windows were some of the most extensive but effective changes. “Most critically, we moved the staircase from the middle of the ground floor to the side and the introduction of beautiful steel frame windows and French doors throughout meant we were able to draw in significant amounts of light at the same time as adding great character.”

BEFORE internal staircase

AFTER internal staircase

The process also included an extension to the rear and the addition of a raised rear courtyard and side passage to the home which allows a seamless transition from inside to out. “This wasn’t possible with the old home as there was a series of steps down into the backyard,” says the owner, who is pretty thrilled with the end result. “I particularly love my beautiful kitchen and butler’s pantry that flows to the living area and out on to our gorgeous rear courtyard.”

BEFORE kitchen

AFTER kitchen

AFTER kitchen (butler’s pantry)

The exterior looks entirely different too, not least in part due to the addition of a black steel balustrade fence at the front. “We also widened the garage to allow for greater storage and functionality and the new fence at the front has added greater security,” says the owner. The black accents continue throughout the home – some of them were picked up inexpensively online. “The black internal door handles were a great buy as they are classic, timeless and we got them for a bargain online!”

BEFORE rear courtyard

AFTER rear courtyard

“It’s important that you have confidence in the process when you undertake a project like this. The renovation process can be quite daunting and when demolition starts you have this ‘oh my goodness, what have I done?’ moment! But if you employ the right professionals to help and have confidence in them then the results can be amazing,” says the owner, who is looking forward to tackling another renovation in the future.

AFTER dining

AFTER study nook (we love how the bi-fold doors conceal it when not in use)

“Modify managed the process extremely effectively and we were delighted with the outcome both cost-wise and with the actual home itself. I have kept in touch with the company director whom I loved working with and I hope to be able to work with again,” says the owner.

AFTER bedroom

AFTER bathroom

BEFORE floorplan

AFTER floorplan

For more information on Modify.

Tags bathroom, bathroom design, before and after, design, home reno, home renovation, interiors, kitchen reno, outdoor, real reno, reno, renovating, renovation

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1950s Sydney apartment transformed into Scandinavian-inspired retreat

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date April 22, 2016
1 Comment on 1950s Sydney apartment transformed into Scandinavian-inspired retreat

Renovated in time for the arrival of a baby, almost every aspect of this 1950s Sydney apartment was overhauled over a 12-week period, with a budget of $120k, and the result is Scandi-chic.

BEFORE kitchen

AFTER kitchen

“The apartment was in its original 1950s state, obviously needing a complete overhaul, but we saw the potential because of the natural light streaming through the northerly facing windows and the beautiful green outlook. We love period buildings and the opportunity to completely overhaul the interior was just too much to resist,” says owner Sian Jenkins.

AFTER kitchen

Aside from the aesthetic revamp, the most transformative aspect of this renovation was structural. “We removed a section of a structural wall that closed off the kitchen from the living and dining area. This really opened up the whole space and meant we could also fit an island bench for extra storage, benchtop space and casual seating,” says interior designer and project manager Luisa Volpato, who cleverly chose a mirrored kitchen splash back to open up the space even further. “This reflects space and light from the large north-facing kitchen window. So even if you’re standing at the stove, you can still see what’s going on around you which is perfect if you have young kids. You can also chat with someone sitting at the island bench behind you,” says Luisa.

BEFORE living room

AFTER living room

AFTER dining

“The old carpet and lino was replaced with Blackbutt timber floorboards and all the walls were painted in Dulux Natural White. This provides a modern yet timeless blank canvas for Sian’s colourful artwork, quirky homewares and vintage furniture pieces,” says Luisa. She selected neutral wool carpet for the bedrooms, modern frosted glass doors in the main bedroom and mirrored sliding doors in the second bedroom. “You can’t go past mirrored sliding doors to help small rooms look bigger.”

BEFORE main bedroom

AFTER main bedroom

BEFORE second bedroom

AFTER second bedroom

Massive fans of pink, we were rather taken with the original bathroom – the sorbet-toned mosaic floor tiles in particular – but it obviously had to be overhauled for design consistency alone! “Besides the original 50s pink tiles and matching pink bath, toilet and pedestal vanity (which were totally fabulous in their own quirky way) the main problem with the original bathroom layout was that it was very cramped,” says Sian.

BEFORE bathroom

The configuration was changed completely and a large mirrored cabinet (in lieu of a vanity) and combined bath/shower were installed: both space-saving measures. “With a baby on the way, we didn’t want to remove the bath altogether so it was a happy compromise,” says Sian.

AFTER bathroom

“While large-format white wall tiles help make the space look bigger, we decided on a concrete-look tiled floor, black fittings and timber accents to give the bathroom more character than if it was entirely white,” says Luisa.

AFTER bathroom

Sian, who recommends informing your neighbours when any noisy renovation works are planned, and generally filling them in on your project’s progress, is thrilled with the end result. “You labour over every decision for each and every aspect so you’re emotionally involved in even the littlest things. I completely love the kitchen with its clean lines, mirrored splash back and 11 square metres of storage; but then I also adore the oak modknob door handles we had imported from the US for the bedroom and bathroom doors,” says Sian.

See here for more information about the interior designer.

Tags bathroom, bathroom design, before and after, design, home reno, home renovation, interiors, kitchen, kitchen reno, real reno, reno, renovating, renovation, tiles, timber

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Expert Advice: How to pick the right trade

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 2, 2016
No Comments on Expert Advice: How to pick the right trade

Did you check your tradie’s credentials before booking? Check out our four-step guide to ensuring you’re working with a professional.

If you’re looking to hire a tradesman, whether it be a plumber, electrician or just a handyman to repair something broken, it’s important that you choose carefully. The best tradie for the job will be appropriately qualified, licensed, professional and have a reputation for producing great work. Being discerning in your choice will ensure that you get work done on time, it’s good quality and completed at a good price.

To help you hire the right tradie for the job, you need to ask the right questions. Here are four key factors to consider…

Are they legitimate?
An ABN or Australian Business Number is issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and helps businesses to identify one another. While it’s not mandatory for a tradie to have an ABN, it makes it easy for anyone to verify their business. The ATO database will enable you to see when the business was registered and whether that registration is still valid.

Are they licensed?
Most tradesmen in the building sector require a license to perform work in your home and have to hold a qualification to be awarded the license in the first place.

Trade licences are not as black and white as they might seem though, so be careful. Licensing of trades is done on a state-by-state basis, with each state having slightly different requirements. Some licences for builders, plumbers, electricians and gas fitters are licensed nationwide. Other tradesmen such as painters, are not required to hold a licence in every state.

To navigate through the confusion, searching online will quickly tell you whether your potential electrician/carpenter/tiler/landscaper needs a licence where you live. To check if theirs is valid you can look online or simply just ask to see it with your own eyes. If they push back on providing documentation then your alarm bells should really be ringing.

Are they covered?
It’s absolutely vital that the tradie you choose is covered by the correct insurance policy. Public liability insurance is compulsory and will protect you against third party injuries and property damage caused by the contractor. Without public liability insurance, they may not be able to pay for the damage, replacement or repair.

So it’s of the utmost importance that you check their insurance is current and valid, before allowing them to commence work in your home.

What’s the word on the street?
One of the best ways so check a tradie’s reputation, workmanship and professionalism, is to see what their past clients have said about them. Search their business online and look for testimonials or online recommendations. This will give you an idea of how they operate, and if you notice an alarming number of negative reviews, it would be best advised to steer clear!

Carefully considering all of these factors and asking the right questions upfront can ensure that you choose the right tradie for your home improvement needs, while avoiding any possible disappointment or disputes.

–Johanna Seton is a home improvement expert from hipages.com.au, Australia’s largest online marketplace for hiring home improvement professionals

Tags building, construction, hipages.com.au, home reno, home renovation, kitchen reno, property, reno, renovating, renovation, tradesman

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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

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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

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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 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
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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

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

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 28, 2015
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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

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Olivia’s visit to The Block and the kitchen lowdown

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 27, 2015
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After visiting The Block I always come out with the same feeling: “It’s so much smaller than I thought.” They say the TV adds 10 pounds to a person, so maybe the same can be said about apartments! However, while they were quite tiny, I’m going to make the big call that they are my favourite apartments yet… at least out of the three series I’ve seen in the flesh (read about my visits to Fans v Faves and Triple Threat). I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Melbourne yesterday thanks to The Good Guys Kitchens.

I was worried the strange angles of the building, which I will admit didn’t look too pretty from the outside, would make the inside confusing and uninviting, but the contestants truly did a wonderful job working with what they’d got. There was no apartment that stood out for all the wrong reasons, in fact while everyone had dramatically different styles, to me all the apartments were quite on par. Well except Shay and Dean’s penthouse; that truly was in a league of its own. Light and bright, with gorgeous views, everyone in the elevator let out a huge “woah” when the doors opened and we arrived in their dining room that looked out onto the city. Truly spectacular. You’re in for a treat these next few weeks when the dining rooms and balconies are revealed.

All the contestants were at the media event and got to show us around their apartments. We were there specifically to see the kitchens, so while I did get to see the whole space, my below views and all the product details are just for the kitchens. Enjoy!

Kingi and Caro: Urban

I was a big fan of Kingi and Caro’s kitchen and can totally understand why they scored an amazing 29/30. While the other kitchens (bar Shay and Dean’s) contained some strange angles, they had cleverly squared their room to achieve a traditional shaped kitchen which then allowed them to transform the remaining alcove into a butler’s nook. Honestly, it was genius!

The colour scheme was bold yet timeless and featured contrasting cabinetry colours of Super Matt Black and Essendon Super Matt Serene. The benchtops in Silestone Blanco Zeus, coupled with Kingi’s rendered island (a real show stopper!) added depth and texture, while the graffiti-style artwork on the island bar brought the couple’s signature creative element into the space. Also, the innovative built-in tablet in the splashback cannot be forgotten, that was a big hit with everyone! The appliances were by Fisher & Paykel and were integrated seamlessly into the kitchen.

Dean and Shay: Contemporary Entertainer’s

Coming in a very close second with a score of 28.5/30 were Dean and Shay. In my mind, they were the deserving winners, but my oh my, was it close. They created a contemporary entertainer’s kitchen in their penthouse with an on-trend colour palette of black, white and timber grain with brass and copper accents. The island benchtop in Silestone Blanco Orion was angled to blend with the shape of the room, further complimented by contrasting Cemento Spa on the surrounding benchtops.

Look at that glorious butler's pantry! — Look at that glorious butler’s pantry!

By moving their kitchen to the other side of the building, and stealing some space from their study, they had been able to create a butler’s pantry. I’m in love with butler’s pantries and this one was massive! Built-in DeLonghi appliances were sleek, with the coffee machine keeping benchtops clear of clutter. The mirrored splashback and vertical garden worked cleverly to bring the outdoors in, but the best part? The eat-at bench space along the expansive windows that really made the most of those city views. If only I could have my breakfast there every day!

Luke and Ebony: Contemporary Classic

Next was Luke and Ebony with an impressive 27/30. Not particularly my style, I could certainly appreciate how they had beautifully blended the old with the new by pairing classic white Shaker profile doors with a contrasting shadow line detail. The black timber and copper handles (now these I absolutely loved!) added a sense of cohesion and sophistication.

The Silestone island benchtop in Ariel had been angled in an attempt to counteract the irregular shape of the room and by removing a wall, Luke and Ebony really opened up their room. Quality Electrolux appliances were featured throughout, including four (!) self-cleaning ovens.

Andy and Whitney: Scandinavian

In fourth place, scoring 25.5/30, were Andy and Whitney. I didn’t hate this kitchen but I didn’t love it either. The strange angles of the building were quite obvious and there was some rather bizarre dead space, but I did like the colour palette. Featuring the Scandinavian look of white, grey and timber grain juxtaposed with antique brown handles, a painted brick splashback and a Smeg freestanding cooker, the kitchen was given a subtle industrial edge. Featured, for the first time on The Block, was the inverted sharknose profile benchtop by Silestone in White Storm, which contrasted with the marble-inspired island benchtop in Lyra. It had been angled to work with the triangular-shaped space.

Suzi and Vonni: Moody Entertainer’s

Finally Suzi and Vonni’s kitchen, which scored 25/30, was nothing short of an entertainer’s dream. In my opinion it wasn’t worthy of last place, though when only four points separate first and last you know there’s hardly anything in it. Both sleek and moody, it came complete with all the bells and whistles including a large island with a Bosch built-in induction cooktop and expansive prep space. Super Matt Black dominated throughout, with the Helix and Carbono Silestone benchtops providing contrast and adding a real sense of luxury.

A special thanks to The Good Guys Kitchens for flying me to Melbourne and giving me a behind the scenes look at The Block. As usual, I loved it!

Tags design, good guys, interiors, kitchen, kitchen reno, renovation, the block

Design Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Which tradies do what in a kitchen reno?

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date August 7, 2015
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Planning on revamping or rebuilding your kitchen? Depending on the scale of your project you are going to need the right tradies to make it all happen. Knowing who does what will help you decide who you are going to need.

Benchtop installer

Having tons of space to work on is essential in the modern kitchen, so a benchtop specialist can install whatever surface is right for you, including budget laminate, timber, engineered or natural stone, amongst others.

Cabinetmaker

A cabinetmaker can help you get exactly what you want in terms of storage for your kitchen including a dedicated pantry, deep drawers and all the latest hardware like soft close drawers. Don’t forget to plan for that wine rack, a must for any kitchen!

Electrician

A sparkie is a must-have tradie for any kitchen project no matter the size. Besides obvious elements like lighting you are also going to need tons of powerpoints and all your integrated appliances wired and installed.

Kitchen designer

A kitchen designer can help you squeeze the most out of your space. Let’s face it a well laid out kitchen is an efficient kitchen. Expect to chat about the kitchen work triangle, layout and cabinet sizes.

Plumber

Nowadays you’ll be installing not just your kitchen sink and tapware but your dishwasher and that fancy fridge with water/ice dispenser. A licensed plumber can make it all happen and more.

Splashback installer

Unless you like the look of raw concrete (some of you just may) a glass, tiled or stainless steel splashback are perhaps more practical options to frame your work area.

Tiler

Whether you are thinking of a snazzy tiled splashback or simply having tiles underfoot, an experienced tiler can lay these on walls or floors.

Dedicated kitchen builder

If you are doing a whole kitchen reno and want someone to take care of the whole project, then a dedicated kitchen builder is definitely for you. They can manage all the above trades and save you a heap of time trying to juggle it all. Expect to pay for the convenience though.

If you are installing a flat pack kitchen there are also dedicated services that will do just that for you.

Don’t forget, like any other job all the tradies who work on your kitchen project need to be licensed for the work they undertake.

— Craig Gibson is the online editor of hipages.com.au, Australia’s largest network of trade professionals and the perfect place to find a kitchen specialist in your local area.

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How to update your kitchen with just a splash of paint

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date August 6, 2015
No Comments on How to update your kitchen with just a splash of paint

Colour always packs a punch and by simply painting your splashback to be bright and bold you can instantly transform dated tiles into a modern feature wall. In this kitchen, I also changed the beige cabinet doors to a rich dark grey shade, and it added great contrast to that amazing green splashback. Here’s how you can do it yourself:

1. Prepare the splashback

Before painting, move as much as you can including shelves and door handles and cover the bench to protect from spillages. Wipe the surface down with cleaner to remove all grease and other contaminants, then apply one coat of primer with a micro fibre roller, following label directions.

While it can be tempting, don’t skip the prep! It is needed to help the paint adhere to give you a great finish. I like using a small roller as it’s easy to manoeuvre into the grout lines.

2. Paint the tiles

The key to this kitchen makeover is tile paint, our White Knight Tile Paint is formulated to protect against mould and mildew and can be tinted in thousands of different Taubmans shades. It’s easy to use too. All you need to do is apply two coats with a quality micro fibre roller following label directions. The paint goes on thick and smooth and if colour palette is high on your radar, this on-trend shade called Taubmans Jester Green, is the one for you.

Be brave but not brash with your choice of colour and have some Taubmans colours made up into test pots. Apply them to large pieces of cardboard to hold against the wall. Once you’ve found your favourite shade have it tinted into the tile paint.

3. Finishing the wall

Redoing the grout lines using a grout pen, like our White Knight Grout Pen, adds a subtle graphic element that’s crisp and professional. Use a straight edge like a long steel ruler to help guide your hand, working from the top down. Don’t add the white lines until the wall is totally dry, leaving it at least a day to be sure. Use a damp cloth to immediately wipe away any wobbly bits as the pen marks dry fast.

4. Transform the cabinets

Remove the cabinet doors if you can, then prepare them using the same cleaner and primer as the tiles, following the label instructions.

Our White Knight Laminate Paint, like the tile paint, can also be tinted to almost any shade. Apply two coats following label instructions. This Taubmans colour called Black Forest is a great contrast to the bright green tiles. I love how it’s dark and rich but doesn’t suck up the light like a true black would, and applying it with a roller gives a professional finish.

Decide if you’re going to change the handles before you paint so you can check the screw holes. If the new handles are positioned differently use a timber filler to smooth over them before priming. Now you’re done!

— Natasha is the founder of Little Red Industries, a DIY specialist and the creative director of the #WhiteKnightRevive series.

Tags diy, kitchen reno, little red industries, paint, reno, renovating, taubmans, White Knight, White Knight Grout Pen, WhiteKnightRevive

Bathrooms Before & Afters Design Kitchens Real Renos RENO ADDICT

Real reno: the contemporary facelift of an Edwardian weatherboard

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date July 29, 2015
No Comments on Real reno: the contemporary facelift of an Edwardian weatherboard

As first time renovators Melanie Zammit and her husband Jason set out with one simple aim: to create a home that felt like they were on holiday everyday.

Happily, they succeeded, with the six-month transformation turning their liveable but dated Edwardian weatherboard into a contemporary family home. “The last reno the home had was in the early 90s, so it just needed a huge facelift and more than anything, another bathroom,” explains Melanie. “Luckily it has a north facing rear so the home was already quite light and airy and the existing floor plan was suited to our needs, so we could absolutely see the potential.”

Completely gutting and redoing the kitchen and main bathroom, they also added an ensuite, removed the laundry to make way for a walk in pantry (with laundry nook), sanded and repolished the floors, repainted the entire interior and sold all their old furniture, light fittings and even the kitchen to make way for brand spanking new furnishings. “Definitely my advice for would-be renovators would be to sell anything that may be of some value, including old doors, lights fittings, drapes, curtains, sinks and taps. Our home had a number of period features and fittings which sold quite easily. It all adds up and contributes to the reno fund!”

As a result of Melanie’s efforts, the reno ended up costing $170,000, including all new furniture. And while they have no plans to sell, current estimates have the Melbourne home valued at $1.3 million, a big jump from its $740,000 purchase price in 2006.

However the transformation didn’t come easy, with Melanie, Jason and their two children remaining in their home throughout the renovation. “The biggest challenge was sleeping on the floor in one room and the never-ending stream of dust that engulfed us every single day! If you have the option, definitely move out.”

But uncomfortable sleeping arrangements aside, the reno was relatively challenge-free and Melanie is overwhelmed with the finished result. “We have a modest home and although the reno wasn’t overly big, what we have done, has made a big impact. Adding an ensuite gave us an extra bathroom, which we needed desperately; the new lick of paint has just made the whole house look brand new and I can’t forget the kitchen. I am a bit of contradiction in that I don’t like cooking but I love entertaining friends and family and the 3.5m kitchen bench has turned out to be the hub of our home. I love it!”

Tags bathroom, building, construction, design, home reno, interiors, Jason Zammit, kitchen, kitchen reno, Melanie Zammit, real reno, renovating, styling