With its rough sawn hardwood beams, plywood ceilings and exposed brickwork it’s difficult to believe that this stunning home is a new build. Located on a working cattle station in the Byron Bay hinterland, with a two-pavilion design inspired by Australian wool sheds, the home was originally conceived via a collaboration between the architect Angus Munro, of Marc and Co, and the property’s owner, Tim Mundy.
The rugged, masculine interiors were designed by the talented team at The Designory and today, we’re lucky enough to step inside and take a look.
Not your typical homestead!
Nestled on 40 sprawling acres in the lush hinterland hillside, just 10-minutes from the centre of Byron Bay, Walker Farm feels opulent but very modern given its understated materials palette of timber, leather and stone. The landscape is arguably the most prominent feature of the property, and thus framing framing the views and capturing the light were paramount to the home’s design.
Lounge room
As mentioned, the home is comprised of two pavilions, yet both serve very clear purposes. One side houses the generously proportioned living, dining and kitchen spaces while the other contains a series of gorgeous bedrooms and bathrooms.
Open plan kitchen, living and dining
In the central living area, a dramatic cathedral ceiling competes for attention with a basalt stone-clad combustion fireplace; the result is pretty dramatic. The adjacent kitchen features high-end appliances alongside stone and timber bench tops and exposed timber integrated shelving gives the kitchen joinery a lived-in, decorative feel with plenty of room for personal touches.
Kitchen
The bedroom pavilion houses a rumpus room and a stylish kids’ room with built-in bunk; the space saving custom solution has become something of a Designory signature. There’s a further two children’s bedrooms and guest rooms in this wing along with a master suite too.
Kids’ room. That blue paint is absolutely stunning.
The large master suite is another highlight of the home. One end of the room features a huge leather clad wall that serves to ground the space, while injecting more of that glorious earthy texture. The nearby ensuite is clad in green andesite and while private, it enjoys views of the surrounding pine forest and farm below.
The master bedroom features a large leather-clad wall
Ensuite
All of the bedrooms have been designed with the natural landscape in mind with layers of natural texture and nature images featuring prominently. The resulting spaces all feel distinct yet connected to one another, thanks to the organic materials palette that was inspired by the surrounding environment.
Bedroom
Bedroom
The outdoors features a communal firepit area and a stunning mineral enriched pool by Theralux. Substantial decks and integrated bench seats allow the beautifully bucolic view to take centre stage.
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Just like retro design staples velvet, classical archways and terracotta have been subject to modern updates over the past few years, the heavily wooded interior appears to be back on the interiors scene – with a decidely modern spin. Today’s house tour, located in Sydney’s inner-city Redfern, was designed by the talented team at Marra + Yeh architects who have produced a striking, modern take on the ‘Paddington terrace.’
Lounge room
Kitchen
Home to a family of five, the project saw two adjoining terraces combined to create one large contemporary, flexible family home where timber is centre stage. Built as a ‘forever home,’ the design was developed to suit an ever-evolving and ageing family over the next 20 years.
“The clients, a family of five, had lived in one of these terraces for nearly a decade and had strong attachment to the local community. However, with limited scope for expansion they found the house unable to accommodate their needs as the family grew. Fortuitously, an adjoining terrace came on the market for the first time in 36 years, setting off a process of rebuilding and consolidation,” says Carol Merra, Director of Marra + Yeh Architects.
The unassuming terrace front belies the beauty and originality inside
Far from the dark and claustrophobic spaces that one often associates with terrace houses, the rear extension has a unique atrium feature in the centre of the building. A pane of retractable glass ensures fresh air and light can always be welcomed in.
“The way the house is calibrated to climate and environment is not normally found in terrace houses. This is showcased through the internal atrium and sky window, which opens the heart of the house to the outdoors and connects occupants to nature on a daily basis,” says Carol.
The home’s timber staircase and sky window make quite a statement
“The house is part of an ongoing search to create climate-responsive buildings that address living in the age of climate change. The operable sky-window is the primary climate-adaptability element, a double glazed, argon-filled assembly complemented by an external sunshade resulting in multiple open/close combinations, enabling the occupants to modify the building in a dynamic response to prevailing conditions,” says Carol.
Spotted Gum plywood features in the kitchen and throughout the home
With sustainability a top priority for the home’s owners, Big River Group’s locally sourced, sustainable Spotted Gum plywood proved a natural fit. “The family took great care in all materials being used for the creation of their dream home and this is why the use of Big River products was crucial in the process,” says Carol.
Backyard
An ambitious project, Carol is very satisfied with the overall result. “I am proud of achieving both the aesthetic and sustainability ambitions of the brief within the constraints of an existing building in a heritage context.”
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Located in Sydney’s Buraneer Bay, this 1970’s family home underwent a sympathetic overhaul recently taking plenty of cues from existing features. The floor plan remains the same, as do the cedar framed windows which are a key reference point throughout; there’s pops of complementary timber in every room.
Dining
Formal lounge
“Our clients briefed us to work with the existing features of the house, such as the cedar windows and solid structures. These elements truly give the house its character and soften the space to make it feel more homely and welcoming,” says EB Interiors director Emma Buchan.
Master bedroom
Master ensuite. Timber cabinetry offsets the sage green feature tile beautifully.
The home’s new colour palette does wonders in conjuring a homely vibe; there’s peach, pale blue and grey which all bring a sense of calm to the spaces that are inhabited by two teenage daughters and their parents.
“The client liked the grey tones, but we wanted to warm this up and connect this back to the cedar windows. This is where we introduced the blues, peaches, oranges and mustards, which really offset the greys and added a sense of fun and playfulness to the home, without being obnoxious or overwhelming,” says Emma.
Bedroom
The colour scheme is consistent and cohesive throughout the home but to avoid repetition, Emma specified a mustard coloured sofa in the living room, green tiles in the bathroom and orange and burgundy styling pieces. Art, accent lights and soft furnishings were all crucial pieces of the puzzle when it came to finishing the spaces too.
Kitchen. The home features natural stone flooring from eco outdoor, which looks rustic and lived in.
The kitchen features a nero marquina marble splashback, with white gloss cupboard doors and custom-made walnut handles. “With a minimalistic design approach, it is these little details that prevent a clinical feel and make the home feel balanced, unique and welcoming,” says Emma.
Custom walnut timber handles are a unique kitchen detail
The nearby living room is a welcoming, light-filled space. Emma chose ottomans instead of a coffee table to maximise comfort and flexibility; there’s always the option of additional seating. “We made use of the gorgeous windows that face towards the backyard, adding plenty of natural light into the space which makes it feel larger than life,” says Emma.
Aptly titled ‘Timberland’ this timber-heavy renovation is the work of sw-architects’ Sally Wilson. Her own home, the project saw her design and build an open plan extension to add to the rear of her original 1898 sandstone cottage in Adelaide.
Kitchen
“The brief was one I’ve seen often – a growing family needing more living space, new wet areas and a connection to the landscape. As the name suggests, the updated home is largely composed of timber elements, with Australian hardwood featuring prominently both indoors and out. The project also needed to accommodate a new practice office for my architectural business and it was equally important for me to be able to have a direct view of my two children, not only inside the extension but also when looking out to the backyard,” says Sally.
Lounge – timber runs seamlessly from inside to the outdoors
Boral Timber Blackbutt features throughout – along the extension’s roofline and as a horizontal ceiling lining connecting seamlessly from the indoors to outside over the deck. “We wanted to use Australian hardwood for its colour and durability. Timber offers a neutral palette that works with other materials, such as the black aluminium, brick and concrete flooring in our new addition. The continual use of natural timber and raw materials complements the warm feeling of the space,” says Sally.
The new extension has a fabulous connection to the outdoors
Outdoor deck
“Internally, Boral V-joint boards in Blackbutt were selected to horizontally line the pitched ceiling and main wall. The feature grade timber highlights the character of the black gum veins and knots to create a sense of uniqueness. Observing the natural variations in the timber is like looking at clouds and makes the space more homely because it’s not perfect. We only have one plasterboard wall in the space. The timber walls are also practical and durable from a family living perspective,” says Sally.
Pool
“Timberland has been an evolution of experimentation. A well detailed, hand crafted addition that has enhanced the lives of my family. It relies on the simplicity of an efficient plan and raw materials to create a delightful building that has already become an integral part of the landscape in which it has settled,” says Sally of her home that received two commendations in the 2018 SA Architecture Awards – Residential Architecture (Alterations & Additions) and Residential Architecture (Sustainable Architecture).
I absolutely love my solid timber desk in my home office but little did I know it could be contributing to my productivity as well as looking (and feeling!) good!
My home office
Image source: Domayne blog
A new Australian report, Workplaces: Wellness + Wood = Productivity, says productivity can be increased by 8% and rates of well-being by 13% when we are exposed to natural elements, such as wood, in our offices. And with younger generations increasingly starting their own entrepreneurial ventures and working from home, they can choose to surround themselves with such things on a daily basis. Not to mention aesthetics! Take a look at some of our favourite timber home office picks. Nature always gets it right, right?!
The Watson Open Bookcase in new teak from GlobeWest
Ethnicraft Oak Wave bookcase from Curious Grace made from sustainable European oak
My own Ascot desk in natural ash from Contents ID
Recycled Stringybark sideboard from Ingrain Designs
Pollinate undertook a large-scale study investigating the relationship between exposure to wood in the workplace and workers’ reported wellbeing. The following findings are based on the results of an online survey of 1,000 ‘typical’ Australians working in indoor environments:
–Workers in workplaces with more wood have higher levels of satisfaction
–Biophilic design elements e.g. plants, natural light are also correlated with increased workplace satisfaction
–Workers in work environments with exposed wood feel more connected to nature and have more positive associations with their workplace
–Those in wooden working environments have higher levels of wellbeing and take less leave
–Wood is correlated with higher levels of concentration, improved mood and personal productivity.
Over the years I have definitely come to appreciate the feel good factor, beauty and longevity of wood in my home. In my thirties, I’ve upgraded from MDF flatpack, and I prefer to wait until I can afford the solid timber version; even better if it’s sustainably sourced too (read more about choosing the right wood). In my last apartment reno I used recycled timber vanities crafted by Melbourne’s Ingrain Designs and my latest furniture purchase for this house is an extendable ash dining table by Ethnicraft, who are committed to making solid wood furniture which lasts for generation and transcends trends.
My last bathroom reno featured stunning recycled timber vanities which I still miss!
It makes absolute sense to me that being surrounded by wood, be it at home, in the office or home office, would contribute to your feeling of wellbeing and connection to nature. As someone who gets to work from home and dictate my home office surroundings, I absolutely love having a beautiful solid timber desk as the hero of the room. Its timeless design means I’ll have it for many years.
The report goes on to say: “The link between job satisfaction and productivity has been well established in several academic papers. The happier the worker the more effective they will be in their role. Therefore, it is crucial for organisations to focus on worker satisfaction in order to maximise productivity. According to the results of this survey only 66% of workers are satisfied with their working life and only 59% with their workplace’s physical environment. This leaves a significant proportion who may not be maximising their potential while at work.”
An area in which workers were least satisfied was their connection with nature while at work. Given the established link between nature and wellbeing it makes sense that we should all trying adding some timber and plants (which also happen to be seriously on trend!) to our offices (where we have the choice) and home offices!
Why wood’s good (from a design perspective)
It’s a neutral
Natural materials add warmth and interest
It’s solid and hardwearing and can be sanded back and given a new lease on life should it get damaged or you fancy a change
It basically goes with everything!
Some ideas for adding wood to your home office
The obvious one: a desk
Timber wall shelving or bookcases
Investing in solid timber flooring when renovating rather than cheaper alternatives
Look for vintage timber furniture pieces to add character and minimise the corporate vibe.
While timber decking is beloved in Australia (no doubt due to our passion for outdoor entertaining), the only drawback is the maintenance required to keep it in superior shape. But that looks set to change with the arrival of a three-step system from Cabot that promises to drastically reduce the time taken to complete the task.
Mmm, that timber decking looks sumptuous.
Step one: Cabot’s New Timber Prep Possibly the most exciting product in the three-step system, Cabot’s ‘New Timber Prep’ allows deck owners to skip the four to six weeks of weathering typically recommended for new timber – how fabulous! Just one coat of this product imitates the effects of weathering, by drawing out the timber’s tannins and oils. The process takes a mere 15 minutes before the product is rinsed off with warm water, leaving the surface ready for coating.
Step two: Cabot’s Deck Clean An essential prep product, this solution should be used for both new and weathered timber prior to coating to remove dirt and excess tannins. Just mix it up with warm water and apply it to the timber’s surface with a bristle brush and after 20 minutes, simply rinse it off with a high-pressure hose.
Step three: Cabot’s Aquadeck The final step, and now with half the recoat time (just one hour, down from two), Cabot’s Aquadeck leaves a durable, lightly pigmented finish that is touch dry in just 20 minutes and is guaranteed to last twice as long as other oil-based decking oils. The faster drying time means fewer dust and dirt particles are likely to get trapped on the timber surface too.
Given the popularity of Modernist-inspired architecture, we’re so used to seeing sharp edges and hostile materials in home design – concrete, steel and myriad other industrial finishes. And I believe that it’s for this reason that timber cladding, with its softening effect, has been steadily gaining momentum as a trend. “Timber cladding can suit a traditional or contemporary home design, complementing other exposed building materials such as concrete and brick,” says Boral Timber national sales and distribution manager Leon Travis
“The adaptability of timber cladding can make it a material of choice across anything from interior and exterior walls and fences to sheds and garages. It may be installed vertically or horizontally to add character to a property. Words like ‘shiplap’ have become buzzwords among renovators both locally and internationally. Shiplap is simply the name of a timber cladding profile that’s proving popular as a feature timber,” says Leon.
“Boral hardwood timber cladding showcases the beauty of popular Australian timbers, including blackbutt and spotted gum, and is an economical finish for both new and old buildings,” says Leon.
Aside from bringing warmth, and a striking aesthetic, to the exterior of a home, timber cladding is also highly adaptable to Australia’s harsh weather conditions and carries energy efficiency benefits too. Timber has air pockets that create a natural barrier to heat and cold, thus forming an insulation layer around a home, and can even help reduce energy bills too.
And for those worried about termites, some timber species are better than others. “Forming a unique feature of many architecturally designed commercial and residential buildings, blackbutt cladding in particular is often chosen due to the species’ naturally termite resistant properties and fire resistance. Its attractive colouring also creates a blank canvas for achieving a custom stained finish,” says Leon.
Anyone familiar with my renovating projects knows just how much I love timber, whether it’s gleaming polished floorboards, wood panelled walls, or outdoor rooms awash in timber. It just has such a warming effect and never goes out of fashion.
Here are just some of the ways to incorporate timber into your next renovating project.
Cover all bases
Cladding can be the answer to a whole raft of issues, from remedial problems you want to cover up to just pure decorative indulgence.
In this inner city courtyard, timber panelling deftly acts as both a privacy shield and as cladding on an ugly wall. The pinkish tones of merbau work beautifully with the old brick pavers. And built-in timber seating completes the cosy setting.
BEFORE
AFTER
This next studio was in an old converted warehouse, so I wanted rustic finishes that mirrored the old bones of the building. Recycled floorboards for a feature wall and old sleepers for the steps and office nook definitely hit the right note.
BEFORE
AFTER
Make an entrance
We all know the importance of first impressions, especially when it comes to street appeal. And whether you have a brick, weatherboard or plain old fibro house, a lavish spread of timber can certainly dress up a bland entrance.
BEFORE
AFTER
This is something you could easily pull off in a weekend. It was a matter of removing the old rusted iron railing and pillars, centring the new timber stairs in front of the entry door, adding timber frames around the windows and new planter beds. Together with the new exterior colour, it completely transforms the façade of this suburban home.
Lastly, a much more ambitious (and luxurious) project, here I’ve used extensive merbau decking to create a whole new outdoor living area – at the front of the house. It’s something to keep in mind if you have a generous front yard and a passion for outdoor entertaining.
BEFORE
AFTER
AFTER
–Cherie Barber is the director of Renovating for Profit, a company that teaches everyday people how to buy and renovate properties for a profit.
As regular readers will know, we have been doing up our “nanna house” (so named after the lady who lived here for 30 years before us and whose decor was decidedly, well, nanna!) since April. While this house was well loved and looked after, it was added to over the years, many times, and this left it with a look which was often more patchwork quilt than consistent!
The best (worst) example of this was the flooring. We had dark (red-toned) parquetry in the entry, living room and front bedroom, cork in the playroom and dining room and pine boards in the hallway and other three bedrooms. And then of course tiles in the bathrooms. Not only did it ruin the flow of the house aesthetically but it really made it clear where the first of two extensions had happened. I was desperate for the house to feel like one consistent home.
AFTER living room
BEFORE living room
I’m not against parquetry per se, it can be beautiful. And this wasn’t exactly offensive, but it had been faded by light over the years, and it was really obvious where a huge rug had been because of a change in colour. Not to mention dull patches and scratches. If we’d had the same parquetry throughout I’m sure I would have attempted to have it sanded back and re-stained lighter if possible. But as we were really only talking about a quarter of the house, and it still wouldn’t match the rest, it wasn’t really going to achieve our goal.
BEFORE Here is the worst example of the different flooring cutting our long house in two. Note the brown scotia against the yellow pine boards and the gold bar just making the two floors even more obvious!
AFTER Can you hear angels singing?!
BEFORE Dining cork floor meets kitchen pine floorboards
AFTER dining and kitchen
We carpeted three of the bedrooms (the fourth is my office and has a door to the garden so I didn’t want to carpet that) and the playroom as soon as we moved in.
So, I had to decide what kind of flooring and then which brand and colour, and it is a big decision which really affects the look of your home massively. No pressure!
Once we painted the living room, added shutters and wall-mounted shelving, new lighting and our own furniture, and replaced the doors between it and the playroom, it was one of the easiest rooms to finish. But the floor just never quite worked with everything else and really dated the room. It’s not the brightest room (the best light is in the kitchen and dining room) and the dark floor really didn’t help. We knew we needed something lighter and more modern.
Another thing that really bugged me was the lack of proper skirting in most of the house. There was a mismatch of scotias of different colours. Oh, how I longed for plain white skirting boards!
So, it was time to decide on what kind of floor, which brand and which colour; decisions not to be taken lightly. In this house, I was choosing between laminate and vinyl plank flooring. I must admit, I found the differences between the two quite confusing, and I kept hearing that the difference in quality and price wasn’t that big these days, and it was more a case of what kind of floor you wanted/needed.
Laminate flooring is a layered floor built around a watertight, glued High Density Fibre (HDF) board. Luxury vinyl flooring consists of several layers. This not only results in a waterproof floor with sound-reducing properties, it also gives your feet a very warm and soft surface to walk on.
But there is a new generation of laminate flooring that is super durable, and as a mum of a toddler who rides a trike around the house, this appealed! I landed on the Quickstep Impressive Ultra product for several reasons. The first was the look (no surprises there!) because it is so like timber, it feels like timber and it has a great matte finish (Because everyone assumes they now have to take their shoes off on our new floors, our friends have all been commenting on how nice and timber-like it feels underfoot!). I also knew the brand by reputation as high quality and I believe in doing things well and doing them once! I think this is an important point because there are much cheaper products out there but they are not going to last you. Replacing a floor is a major hassle so I don’t want to do it again in a few years. This flooring comes with a very reassuring 25-year warranty!
I liked several of the colours but I loved classic oak beige. It was perfect! Secondly, it’s waterproof, which means it can even be used in bathrooms. And it means if the dishwasher leaks, no drama! Likewise should Seb have the odd accident when we get to toilet training…
I love solid timber floors too but the durability and water resistance of this kind of laminate really made it the winner for me. It’s also cheaper than solid timber, easier to clean and less likely to scratch. And, if you’re interested, it’s compatible with underfloor heating.
I could not be more thrilled with or proud of our new floors. I keep saying I don’t need a Christmas present this year because these floors and my new kitchen have been such a dream to get finished!
Actually getting the floors in was no mean feat and it took four days because there were so many different levels in the house, caused by not only the differences between the different original floorings (which we went over the top of) but also the fact the house shifted many years ago (it’s ok, the structural engineer says it’s sound!). The hallway in particular had a quite obvious slope to it. And even in the living room, which we thought was quite level, some parts were 2.5cm lower than others! This called for a lot of Ardit levelling compound. That stuff ended up having to go everywhere and I did question my decision to not move out during the process! But we managed! After the Ardit, a Quickstep underlay went down and let me tell you, these floors are so much quieter then the old ones and feel solid underfoot.
DURING Cement city!
So, while you can click these floors together yourself, if you have a wonky house like mine or you aren’t confident, I’d recommend you call in the professional flooring experts. Your local Quickstep stockist would be able to help you. Despite the utter chaos of furniture being piled up in unaffected rooms and having to live around the install, it wasn’t actually stressful because the guys doing the job knew exactly what they were doing and had a solution for every curve ball my wonky house threw at them. And there were many!
The house looks so much fresher, brighter and lighter and the best thing about the new floors (and our new white skirting) is they’ve pulled the house together and made it feel like one cohesive whole! This was exactly what I wanted to achieve and I’m not exaggerating when I say the results have actually exceeded my expectations.
AFTER kitchen
In summary, I think laminate has come a really long way. It’s no longer the shiny-looking, cheaper option you may have known in the past. For families, its durability and water resistance are perfect and as appealing as the lower cost (compared to timber).
While the old idiom ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ is good in principal, let’s face it we all do it! So when renovating it’s important your exterior looks flawless and that starts with the front door.
Corinthian Doors has just launched its Blonde Oak collection, which perfectly fits in with the on trend look of blonde timber and soft colour palettes. Crafted from sustainable timber with an American White Oak veneer, the collection is available in a range of designs and sizes, including wide stile pivot doors.
A seamless blend of modern design sensibilities and traditional joinery, the detailing is quite simple, so it doesn’t overpower the architectural features of a home. The key is the material itself, which is a very light American White Oak that can be stained, painted, or even left in its natural state with a light oil. The durability and consistency ensures a wonderful canvas for many finishes and colours, making it the perfect material for a variety of different homes.
Ideal for a grand entrance or other external applications such as backdoors or side entrance doors, the collection also includes vertical and horizontal panel designs, as well as clear and opaque glass options – depending on the chosen design.
Sydney just had its hottest September day on record! So on this side of the world, it sure feels like winter is over. During those dreary, cold months it’s safe to say your outdoor space had a bit of a beating, which means now is the time to bring your timber back to life and ensure your garden is ready for the change in temperature and all the entertaining that goes on in the warmer months.
Photo credit: Peter Campbell-Lloyd, Deck-Max QLD
The Australasian Timber Flooring Association share their tips and tricks for maintaining or building with timber this season:
Make sure your timber is properly maintained so that it can withstand the exposure to the sun during the warmer weather.
Check to ensure you deck is free from termite activity, decay and that fixings are not corroded. Any loose decking boards should also be refixed.
If you’re thinking of installing a deck in your backyard there’s a few things for you to know. Firstly, it’s important that you choose the right timber, based on your design and location to ensure a lasting performance.
If you’re planning on an elevated deck ensure that the area is cleared of vegetation, proper foundations are provided and that appropriate drainage is also provided. In addition, it is important for your deck to be structurally strong enough to carry people walking across it.
Photo credit: Peter Campbell-Lloyd, Deck-Max QLD
If you are wanting a deck close to the ground it’s important to ensure that the deck still has adequate ventilation and drainage.
To protect the timber against decay and termites it is necessary to choose the appropriate timber species and appropriate preservative treatment.
If your timber deck is near your pool or ocean be cautious of potential corrosion that may occur with the fixings due to the increase of salt in the air. It is recommended that stainless steel or silicon bronze fixings are used to prevent corrosion.
Unfortunately, if you live in some areas of the countryside with summer comes the risk of bush fires, check if your area is prone to fires before installing your deck as this will affect the type of timber you may be able to use.
Lastly, it is important to maintain your outdoor decking all year round, and simple steps like the ones listed above will ensure your decking lasts for many summers to come.
For further advice visit the Australasian Timber Flooring Association’s website.
On a subdivided plot just 7.2 metres wide, designing a spacious, private home was always going to be a challenge. However builder Phil Lovell, of Lawson and Lovell Building Services achieved just that and more, winning the Master Builders Award ($800,001-to-$1 million category) for his stunning house in Sydney’s northern beaches.
Home to Phil, his wife Emma and their two young children, the compact site overlooks the beach suburb of Manly. Timber takes real centre stage, with the spotted gum cladding and ceiling the stand out features. “Entering through the grand, timber-panelled front door you immediately get a feeling of space and light,” explains Emma. “Your eyes are then drawn upwards, through the light well, revealing further use of timber panelling on the ceiling of the top floor.”
Further complementing the design is the use of a steel framed, timber-clad beam at the front of the building, which stretches out appearing to float above the building. “One of my favourite details is the structural steel,” says Emma. “It’s a detail that we worked on with the architects and the engineer to come up with, and possibly a detail that a lot of people wouldn’t recognise.”
Designed by Mark Korgul and Evan Howard from Watershed Design, alongside interior designer Annie Benjamin, Phil and Emma required an open plan kitchen, three bedrooms and a home office. The design also had to have plenty of natural light, but maximum privacy. “The site required careful consideration during design with regard to neighbouring apartment blocks,” explains Emma. “The orientation of windows and some frosted glazing overcame this issue. It’s also south facing, so consideration to natural light was paramount. This was overcome with high level windows and the use of voids and stairwell windows.”
With design continuity throughout the home, the lounge area is separated from the open-plan kitchen and dining area by a timber-panelled wall. The state-of-the-art kitchen is finished with stainless steel and gas appliances, a Caesarstone island benchtop and sleek cabinetry. Downstairs, all bedrooms are generously sized, with the master featuring solid timber-framed sliding doors that lead to an enclosed garden; while on the ground level a secure double garage, sizeable home office and another bathroom, complete with shower and internal laundry finish off the home.
I’m a big believer that you can’t go wrong when you use beautiful, solid timber in your home, whether it’s a tabletop, furniture, bathroom vanity or floor. When I see beautiful timber, I just want to run my hand over it! I love that this durable, good-looking material comes from nature and never fails to add warmth and texture, in the most modern or traditional homes.
The bathroom in my old apartment
One thing’s for sure, wood never goes out of fashion, but we do change the way we use it. Last year, I chose to make custom timber vanities the star of my own bathroom and WC. Faced with wanting something simple and timeless but not at all boring, it was the obvious choice. I kept the tiles and bathroomware white, chrome and very simple, with a few marble feature tiles. This let the timber do the talking, and there’s no doubt that when we sold the apartment at Christmas (I still miss that bathroom, sob!) the bathroom certainly helped us get a block record price.
I was absolutely in love with our bathroom. Recently featured in Grand Designs Australia magazine, I wasn’t the only one who thought it nailed the brief of simple, timeless, quality. I mean, just look at that wood grain! You just can’t recreate that artificially! And yes, I spent a lot of time in there, stroking the timber!
There are many misconceptions around using timber though. I was genuinely surprised how many people questioned whether timber was a practical choice for the bathroom. I’d done my research of course, but many people thought the vanities wouldn’t last with so much exposure to water (more on that later). People also think that using new timber is bad for the environment (in that it’s not sustainable to cut down trees) or much more expensive than other options. These are understandable and legitimate concerns and I hope I can shed a little light on these important considerations in this post too.
Wood + water can work!
Ben Purchase of Ingrain Design, who made my vanities, says: “Timber selection in the bathroom is important, and regardless of the timber you choose – new timber or recycled hardwoods – it’s the way you seal it and protect it that ensure its longevity. Sealing prevents moisture getting into the timber, and can reduce issues with warping, movement or water damage. We use Osmo Poly-x because it’s made with natural wax and oils, which absorbs deep into the timber without the use of any harsh chemicals.
A timber stool is another great way to add warmth to the bathroom; a too often cold and clinical space
“Floating timber vanities are a popular choice, and they create the illusion of space. The benefit of a custom vanity is you can completely customise for each individual space, your family’s needs and the amount of storage you require.” That’s something I really loved about the tiny vanity in my WC which could hold an impressive 12 toilet rolls!
Environmentally sound
Interior designer James Treble, star of The Living Room and an ambassador for Planet Ark, told us: “The fact that most timber these days comes certified from regrowth forests (which has a full chain of custody so you know it’s the real deal) means we can all use and enjoy the benefits that timber brings in our homes as one of only 10 materials which is both renewable and recyclable! (More on choosing the right wood here). As for the cost, well quality timber flooring, furniture and cabinetry are made to last, and unlike other finishes they can be sanded stained and refinished many times over, meaning their value outlives many other products.”
Make It Wood, a partnership between Planet Ark and Forest and Wood Products Australia, say when sourced responsibly, wood can play a big part in helping tackle climate change. This is because wood is a low carbon option for building; it sequesters carbon during the growth phase, it stores carbon for the long-term, it is renewable and it has a lower embodied energy than many other building materials such as concrete, steel or plastics. As a result, using wood allows us to live a low carbon lifestyle. Wood is unique among building materials because it is a natural carbon store – up to 50% of its dry weight is carbon. Responsibly sourced wood products store the carbon that the growing trees have removed from the air.
You get what you pay for
I certainly believe that a large portion of society is moving away from the cheap and disposable mass market furniture and homewares that flood the market, and are prepared to pay a little more for something quality which will last, or something custom made which is perfect for their home and their taste. I, for example, have quite a narrow dining room in my new house, and I’m considering having a table custom made to make the best use of the space. We’ll be there for at least 10 years, so it will absolutely be worth it. You also cant beat a timber table top. My previous table was veneer and my toddler soon scratched and marked it at meal times! Solid timber can always be sanded back or re-stained if the worse happens or you change your colour scheme for example, but I personally love the look of a slightly gnarly, dented, well-loved family table that tells a bit of a story about the people who’ve eaten and done their homework at it so I wouldn’t be too precious!
Ben adds: “We’ve found people assume a hefty price tag applies to custom made furniture, when in fact, commissioning your own handmade piece of furniture is more accessible than you think. By choosing custom made, you’re doing your bit for the environment and a piece you can share with generations to come.
“Custom made is more affordable in the long run and people are cottoning on to the longevity you get out of a custom piece. Instead of buying several pieces of furniture over a period of time, you can have that one custom piece in your home – completely customised to your style and specifications, using sustainable, reclaimed or recycled timber, that is built to last and will stand the test of time.”
Where and how to use it in your home
And how about some more unusual uses for timber in the home? While timber clad feature walls have been gaining popularity for a while now, James also suggests ceilings!
We love the timber ceiling in this award-winning project, Yasmine Ghoniem’s (Amber Road) ‘Deco House’, recently featured on Interiors Addict. Click image for more.
“It’s a stylish and unexpected place to see timber cladding! It’s great for alfresco, as a feature under the front portico, and can also work very well inside the home, like the foyer, to make a modern yet stylish entrance,” James says. “And don’t forget the humble timber screening, large recycled timber posts placed close together, are a great way to screen off the front entry into a living area, or to act as a room divider between the living and dining areas.”
A Colourcube Interiors project recently featured on Interiors Addict. Click image for more.
While recycled and upcycled timber furniture is an obviously environmentally friendly, you should know you can buy certified new timber pieces without the guilt too. Before buying furniture or planning renovations such as a new deck or flooring, follow this advice to help you avoid buying illegally logged imported wood or wood from forests of high conservation value.
James says: “Timber is the only product that provides shade and habitat for wildlife while it’s growing, it can then be responsibly harvested, with a new forest to take its place. Those responsibly harvested trees can be used for a huge range of uses, and at a later date can be recycled and reused again and again! While all of this is being done, timber also stores carbon, so it’s great for our planet and global warming, and just like a walk in the bush makes us feel recharged, it’s proven that timber finishes in the home actually lower blood pressure and increase wellbeing! ”
Ben adds: “We’ve seen a growing trend towards locally made, people are becoming more conscious of where their furniture is coming from, and they’re making smarter buying choices when it comes to the environment. By choosing custom made you’re reducing the amount of furniture going to landfill and supporting smaller makers in the process. Purchasing that one custom handmade piece will outlive any flatpack – you’ll not only have a piece with your unique design stamp on it, you’ll also have done your part for the environment. And that means one less flatpack on the street curb.”
Disclosure: this post is in collaboration with Planet Ark’s Make It Wood campaign which supports the use of sustainably sourced, certified wood based on the benefits to the environment and our health and wellbeing that it provides.
The use of internal timber cladding has gained huge traction of late, with people no doubt seduced by the warmth and texture that the material brings into a space. But what of the effect on the environment? We profiled a fabulous timber panel company recently and today we bring you another similar find, Glosswood, a Perth outfit with a sustainability focus.
Established in 1998 by husband and wife duo Peter and Pam Thomson, Glosswood’s range not only looks gorgeous but it’s ideal for the eco-conscious too. “Our impressive range of pre-finished timber lining boards are a sustainable alternative to using native hardwoods, as they are made from Paulownia which is a sustainable plantation timber,” says Jess Thomson who manages sales and marketing for the company.
I hadn’t heard of Paulownia before but it sounds like a miracle species. Because it can grow up to two metres a year it can be harvested at 10-12 years unlike pine which is harvested at 20 years and jarrah at 70 years. The timber can also reshoot up to six times before replanting is required and despite being extremely lightweight, it’s a stable hardwood that is renowned for its resistance to cupping and warping. It’s also less attractive to termites than pine or jarrah. What’s not to love?
“In the late 1990’s, native forest logging was the normal practice. Peter and Pam wanted to offer a timber product range that was sustainable and ticked all the green boxes. To do this, they searched for alternatives, and then developed innovative coating applications to make Paulownia look like many other timber species. Paulownia has a beautiful grain and is easily moulded and coated,” says Jess.
Aside from the sustainability of the timber, the product is coated in a low-VOC water-based UV coating system and comes in a range of widths, finishes and profiles. “Mostly the products show the natural woodgrain and celebrate the beautiful attributes of the timber,” says Jess of the range that is designed for walls and ceilings and both internal and undercover use and can be installed by a confident DIY-er or qualified carpenter. “Our boards are lightweight and have a tongue and groove profile, which makes installation an easy process. The timber boards are also pre-finished which means there is no sanding or painting required,” says Jess.
“Our most popular colours are the natural timbers, like cedar, spotted gum and teak, which have been favourites of late. The charcoal colour in the matte range has had a lot of interest, likely due to its rich, darker tone. It suits more contemporary design but still has a natural timber grain, and translates between both residential and commercial projects. Distressed white is another popular look that both designers and DIY-ers love!” says Jess.
Photography: Angelita Bonetti | Styling: Anna Flanders
With Jen in full-on renovation mode, she was rather excited to unearth Easycraft timber panels recently and now wants to clad everything and so do I! Inspired by the classic Queensland homes of the early twentieth century, the company was created in 1986 but has since grown to manufacture contemporary panel styles too.
A fabulous alternative to paint or wallpaper (it also looks fabulous on the ceiling), the timber paneled aesthetic is a current designer favourite and it’s not hard to see why. From Hamptons style abodes to heritage-listed treasures and new builds, these lightweight MDF panels add gorgeous, clean texture to any space.
“The classic ‘easyvj’ is by far our most popular. It suits traditional homes where renovators want to match older VJ-style paneling and it’s also popular in new homes as a modern, decorative feature on the wall or ceiling,” says Easycraft marketing manager Ben McGill.
“One of our key objectives was to produce something that could provide a great look that anybody regardless of DIY know-how could effectively make use of and install quickly. I think it is a product that is wonderfully easy to implement into the home but also one that you can get a massive amount out of if you do have more experience in DIY and design,” says Ben.
The product can be used in wet areas too. “We recommend ‘easyclad’ for use in wet areas such as bathrooms and laundries. Made from reconstituted hardwood, it provides a tough and hardy baseboard while offering a range of profile finishes to suit,” says Ben.
One of Ben’s favourite designs (and mine too) is the ‘easyascot.’ “It can transform any space. The unique, formal finish of the profile is especially suited to dining rooms, master bedrooms and entry areas. The ‘easyascot’ is a great weekend project and our ‘easydado’ rails complete the look,” says Ben.
The product also delivers on a practical level too, which is why it continues to gain popularity among DIY-ers, builders, architects and designers. “They recognise the advantages of a product that can be produced to their specification without the warping, knotting or splits seen in traditional timber planks. The durability of the boards, coupled with their easy installation also cuts down on material and labour costs,” says Ben.
If your timber outdoor furniture is looking a little less than lovely, it may be time for a bit of TLC. Timber is a popular pick for outdoor furniture and entertaining spaces but it does require some upkeep. Plenty of us start out with good intentions but end up conveniently forgetting our poor old deck chairs until we realise just how weathered they’ve become.
Wind, rain and the harsh Aussie sun is all to blame for the quick weathering process that often befalls timber outdoor furniture. Fortunately, there is now an easy way to rejuvenate tired timber furniture and restore it to its former glory, no scrubbing brush required!
Previously, the only way to rejuvenate tired timber furniture was with a scrubbing brush and plenty of elbow grease. Fortunately, there’s a nifty new product on the market that takes the effort out of cleaning up. Sikkens Cetol BL Garden Furniture Cleaneris a quick acting, no-drip gel formulation that draws out dirt, grime and the grey from weathered timber. With instant results, the gel leaves timber looking fresh and natural within 15-20 minutes of application, no scrubbing required!
When timber is dry and ready for a a new look, you can follow up with Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro water-based finish which features ahigh quality, transparent finish that accentuates the natural characteristics and colour of the timber and can be re-coated within two hours compared to oil-based stains that need up to 24 hours. Available in five ready mixed stains, it will make anything old look new again.
Before using Sikkens products and the end result after using the furniture cleaner and stain
When considering the overall ‘kerb appeal’ of your home, it’s likely that the poor old front door barely gets a look in. A door, is a door, is a door after all, isn’t it? Not exactly, it seems with experts finding that a new front doorcan quickly and easily change the entire exterior of the home.
Innovative door experts, Corinthian Doors, have pulled together their top tips for improving the kerb appeal of your home simply by selecting the best possible front door.
5 top tips for choosing a stylish, value adding front door
As one of the first parts of a house to capture the eye, it’s important to choose a front door that complements the style of your house while giving an indication of your own specific tastes. Make sure to consider:
Size – While the standard front door is usually single sized, measuring in at 820mm wide and 2040mm, more and more ‘feature style’ front doors are appearing in homes, especially new builds and those that have been recently renovated. Corinthian Doors National Marketing Manager Athina Solomou has noticed the popularity of the taller, larger front door which perfectly suits the pivot door design. “A pivot door tends to be wider and taller,” says Athina, “making it best suited to handle the extra weight of a larger door while providing a smooth and secure opening.” A pivot system means the weight of the door is carried at the top and bottom rather than on traditional hinged jambs. Athina also thinks that the right pivot door can aadd valuable curb appeal. “It’s easy to take your home’s entrance from bland to grand with one simple upgrade and installing a pivot door,” says Athina.
Frame – There is plenty of variety when it comes to door frames these days. Single, double, French, single with sidelight, double with double sidelights, the list is extensive and can be confusing. Athina recommends taking the architecture and size of your entrance way into consideration before making a choice. Her pick if you’ve got the space? A front door with sidelights. ” Glass panels will allow for sunlight to come through, providing a lighter and fresher atmosphere on the internal side,” says Athina. For privacy and aesthetic reasons, there are a number of glazing options available depending on the door design. This includes decorative and coloured stain glass options for complementary sidelights.
Material – When choosing a material, it’s important to consider both aesthetics and practicality. Those who live in suburbs where bushfire is a risk should always check what BAL (or bushfire attack level) rating their property requires before purchasing a door. BAL ratings range from BAL-low up to BAL-40 with the correct choice of materials required for each zone. For those who live in hot and humid areas, you may want to consider choosing a material with a low shrinkage/expansion rate like Merbau.
Design and colour – Once the more practical aspects have been sorted, you can consider exactly how you’d like your door to look. A colourful or interesting entry door design will provide an inviting preview of what is to come. It’s also a great chance for homeowners to release their inner stylist and experiment with design and colour. Look for something that suits the rest of the house and surrounding area while offering your property a point of difference and standout feature.
Corinthian doors offer a wide range of products that pair innovative manufacturing and design techniques with the beauty of natural timbers.
From wallpaper to speckled paint, exposed brick and the living green variety, there are myriad ways for walls to bring texture to a room.
Image courtesy of HGTV
Wallpaper
When it comes to texture, wallpaper can always be relied upon to bring this to a room. Whether subtle or dramatic, wallpaper will change the feel in the room making it perfect for creating an overall vibe.
Paint
Textured paint is a great way to add texture to any space whether you purchase a ready-made one or make your own (texture can be added to paint with the use of joint compound). As an added bonus it conceals uneven or chipped walls too.
Image courtesy of Somhome
Water colour
Painting a wall in a water colour design is a great way to add unique texture to a space, and it also has a lovely painterly quality. Any colours can be used to create this look, however it is best to use hues that complement one another – a trio of purple, blue and pink is one such alternative.
Speckled paint
Adding paint speckles to a wall is a great way to add texture to a space, depending on what colours are used. In a child’s bedroom, speckling bright coloured paint on a neutral toned wall is a great way to add texture and create a unique space that is unlike any other. Speckling paint can also be achieved through flicking the paint on the paintbrush onto the wall.
Image courtesy of Inside Out magazine
Timber
Much like painting brick, painting timber is great for an injection of texture. If the timber isn’t smooth, painting over it will create a unique, rustic design in the room. Similarly, leaving timber exposed and unpainted will also retain texture in a space.
Brick
With the industrial aesthetic trending, exposed brick has experienced a resurgence in popularity over the last few years. Leaving bricks exposed, or roughly painting over brick to give it a faux worn look adds fabulous texture to a space. Much like wallpaper, exposed brick allows any space to have a unique texture and feeling.
Image courtesy of Atlas Concorde
Three dimensional tiles
Three dimensional tiles, or tiles that appear that way, are a great way to add something different to a space and will usually make it feel larger too. Three dimensional tiles are easy to clean and maintain, however it’s worth considering that they don’t age that well.
Metal
Exposed metal, or pressed metal is a great way to incorporate an industrial feeling into a space. Metal works better as a feature on a wall – don’t cover the entire thing as it can be overwhelming. Exposed metal tends to look more rustic the older it gets – its unique patina only improves with age.
Image courtesy of Home Designing
Green walls
Green walls are a great way to add texture and they provide a host of other benefits too. While they can be difficult to construct and maintain they can help improve air quality, focus and productivity. In purely aesthetic terms, filling a wall full of greenery will leave a lasting impact whenever you walk in to the space. When paired with neutral soft and hard furnishings, the greenery will pop all the more.
