Award winning Kitchens, Pantries, Laundries, Home Offices, Bathroom Vanities Storage Solutions, Walk In Robes and more
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When the pandemic hit, like many people, I swapped office life for home life. One day, I was sharing a workspace with a dozen people. The next, I was packing up my laptop, keyboard and computer screen and heading home.
My home office was lifeless, and other than the bookshelf I adore that spans the entire wall, the room was rather boring.
Now, four years later, it is my haven. Artwork adorns the walls, inspirational quotes and photographs brighten my desk, and my shelves are brimming with magazines, dictionaries, books and more – all of the things that represent who I am.
In this month’s edition, we show you how to transform a spare room into the office of your dreams. Turn to page 18 for more. Plus, we have expert tips, outdoor ideas and style advice. Enjoy!
Often one of the most underappreciated rooms in the house, your laundry can become a stylish and useful space through a well-planned renovation.
Let’s break down the key steps to your renovation.
1. Set goals. Determine what you want to achieve with the renovation. Are you aiming to improve functionality, enhance aesthetics, or both?
Identify your priorities to guide the rest of the planning process.
2. Calculate budget. Determine how much you are willing to and can spend on the renovation. Research the costs of materials, appliances, labour and any additional expenses.
3. Get inspired. Collect images of laundries that appeal to you and note specific features or design elements you'd like to incorporate into your own renovation.
4. Design and plan. Develop a detailed design plan that outlines the layout, fixtures, finishes and colours. Consider factors such as workflow, storage solutions, lighting and ventilation. If needed, consult with a professional designer or architect to help you create a cohesive and functional design.
5. Select materials. Choose materials and fixtures that align with your design plan and budget. Select flooring, countertops, cabinets, sinks, tapware and hardware that complement your overall vision for the space.
6. Final details. Review your plans and check they comply with relevant building codes and regulations.
Australian homes often feature compact laundries. Maximise the use of vertical space and add shelves or cabinets for storage. Consider stackable washer and dryer units to save floor space.
Adequate lighting is essential for a functional laundry space. Install overhead lighting fixtures or task lighting above work areas like the sink or countertop. Consider LED lights for energy efficiency and longevity. The Australian Government’s Your Home tool recommends, relying on natural light options. Allowing natural light to enter through windows or skylights can also reduce energy use. Of course, daylighting should be balanced with good thermal design. This will ensure that sunlight does not increase the need for cooling inside the home.
Choose durable materials. Given the humidity and frequent use of your laundry, select materials like moisture-resistant plasterboard or waterproof tiles for walls and floors. Stainless steel, stone or high-quality laminate countertops are ideal for durability.
Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent mould and mildew. Install a vent or exhaust fan to expel moisture and improve air circulation. If possible, consider a window or skylight for natural ventilation. hoose en Gov reco lig li e
Seeking inspiration for your upcoming bathroom renovation? This Mooloolaba project by Sunshine Coast business Cabinet House demonstrates how you can transform your drab space into a stylish upgrade.
CATEGORY: $20,000 plus. The colour black is a timeless symbol of sophistication and refinement. When incorporated thoughtfully into a bathroom renovation or new build, it can elevate the space. As shown in this home, sleek black cabinets not only provide the practical advantage of being easy to clean, but create a sense of luxury.
Incorporating matte black fixtures such as faucets, handles, screens, doors and showerheads can further enhance the cohesive look. Finish with pops of green and brass accents.
House of Rohl stylist, Fiona Gould shares her tips on how to use the latest trend, burgundy, in your home.
As bold as the shade may be, burgundy can be accompanied by charming textures and colour palettes that work within your kitchen or bathroom to pop without competing with one another.
Burgundy offers a gorgeous sense of moody romance. It’s a bold colour but also one that adds timeless sophistication to a space.
Bathrooms are such a separate, enclosed space, which provides the perfect opportunity to experiment with colour when you may otherwise not be so brave in the rest of your home. Try a fresh coat of paint on the walls or wallpaper with burgundy tones.
Benchtops with rich burgundy tones, such as Rosso Levanto or Calacatta Viola marbles, are perfect for bringing in accents of the colour to your bathroom or kitchen in a bold, luxurious yet, timeless statement.
Why not pair a bold burgundy wall, cabinetry,
The Flinders grape bath towel range from Adairs
or statement freestanding bath or basin with more muted marble tones – burgundy and Bianco Carrara or Arabescato marble, for example, are stunning combinations.
In addition, deep timbers like walnut and warm oak match perfectly with burgundy tones. If you already have these timber tones in your space, try styling this area with burgundy towels, a plant with reddish tones and decorative accessories with pops of burgundy.
It’s a great way to trial the palette before committing to something more permanent.
Tapware in brass and bronze, such as the Perrin & Rowe products pictured, complement
burgundy beautifully.
When you’re styling a bold, deep colour, the trick to not ending up with a dark and gloomy space is to ensure there are at least a couple of moments of contrast with lighter tones.
Why not try a dark wall and bath with white wall sconces?
Perhaps dark cabinetry with a lighter marble benchtop or dark floor tiles with a crisp white wall?
This planning is what will give your space the balance it needs and ensure your statement colour pops.
“Before drilling holes in the wall to hang curtains, use painter's tape to mark where you want the rod to be positioned”
Dress your windows and bring a touch of sophistication to your home.
Stockists
1. Solomons Flooring’s double curtains combine block out and sheer curtains together for a versatile finish. They offer practical benefits of layering the fabric, as well as double-layer insulation. Visit solomons.com.au. 2. These panel glide blinds are engineered for sleek functionality and glide horizontally to control light and enhance privacy. Shademe creates custom-designed panel blinds tailored to your home. Visit shademe.com.au/blinds. 3. Veri Shades have the feel of curtains with the versatility of blinds. They have no weights or chains, creating a soft feature across a large doorway or window. View the range at noosascreensandcurtains.com.au. 4. Mid-century inspired in its design, the Calvin extendable rod set is a great solution for hassle-free curtain hanging with a minimalist look. The set is available from Pillow Talk. 5. Roman blinds will bring sophistication and style to any room. The Lust collection is inspired the organic textures of nature and available in four blockout colours. They are pictured here in the ceramic colour. Visit choicesflooring.com.au.
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Not sure how much paint you require for your renovation project? Here are some useful hints from the expert team at Mitre 10.
You’ve made the decision and are ready to give your home a makeover with a splash of paint. Great!
But exactly how much paint do you require? Isn’t that the million-dollar question.
Well, the answer will vary according to the product type you choose, as well as the condition of the surface you plan to paint.
Using a paint guide or calculator will help. Mitre 10 offers an online table, which you can
access. Visit mitre10.com.au/diy/ how-to-calculate-the-amount-ofpaint-you-need.
Keep in mind that the guide is based on two coats of paint, 16 square metres per litre coverage.
TIPS AND TECHNIQUES:
Don’t forget to measure all areas that need painting. This includes trims, skirting, doors, window sills and ceilings. The paint calculator only takes into consideration the walls of a room, so be sure to account for a little extra paint to cover all surfaces.
If you’re just painting the walls, don’t forget to subtract the dimensions of any doors or windows. This could be the difference between purchasing an extra can of paint.
Consider the type of surface you’re painting. Is it new, or is it a repaint? Is it an interior or an exterior project? Some surfaces spread the paint differently, so it’s important to consider the quality and appearance you’re going for.
For the best finish, multiple coats are recommended. At least two coats will give you a premium finish, but paint spread can vary between brands.
Of course, using the right paint applicators can make your project far easier.
Consider the areas that need to be painted, and forward plan to ensure you’re equipped with the right tools for the job.
There is a great range of paint applicators, including brushes, applicator poles and rollers available to suit any home project.
MULTIPURPOSE YOUR FURNITURE
Your office can double as a guest room, too. Invest in stylish furniture, such as a couch that can convert into a daybed or sofa bed. Opt for sleek, modular desks with built-in storage. We love the Connor double sofa, as pictured, from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre.
The Diablo Manager has a four-lever system, a mesh back and a seat slider. It’s available in a selection of colours, including raven, charcoal, olive, crimson, orange and scarlett. product alert!
COMFORT IS KEY
Prioritise ergonomic design to ensure comfort and productivity during long work hours. You won’t regret spending money on a quality office chair that will protect your back and promote good posture. An adjustable desk is also a great option.
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Let your personality shine with design touches that inspire creativity. Choose a colour palette that promotes calmness and focus, such as soothing blues or earthy neutrals. Display motivational quotes, family photos, artwork you love and plants to bring a touch of greenery.
CREATE A FEATURE
There are so many interesting elements you can introduce into your office space – budget dependent, of course. A simple painted feature wall is one option, or you might like to completely overhaul your space and install a timber or panel wall. Another idea we like is a vintageinspired bookshelf filled with all your favourite stories and items, like the one pictured here.
Builders, renovators, fabricators, and those working in the construction industry are being reminded of the upcoming national ban on the use, supply, manufacture and installation of engineered stone, which will come into effect in Queensland on July 1, 2024.
In March, WHS ministers representing the Commonwealth,
states and territories agreed to progress amendments to the model WHS Regulations to enable a ban on engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs.
WHS ministers also endorsed a stronger regulatory framework to manage the risk of exposure to respirable crystalline silica from other materials and
products.
The decision was based on a recommendation made by Safe Work Australia in response to the rise of silicosis diagnoses in engineered stone workers.
Workers and businesses in Queensland can continue to work with engineered stone in a controlled way until July 1.
All businesses are strongly
encouraged not to enter any new contracts requiring the use of engineered stone that may not be fulfilled before the prohibition comes into effect.
Why is engineered stone being banned?
Using a power tool or machinery to cut, grind, drill, trim, polish, sand or crush stone products generates dust containing respirable crystalline silica (RCS). Breathing in RCS can lead to serious health conditions, including the lung disease, silicosis.
The latest scientific evidence identified by Safe Work Australia is that RCS particles generated from processing engineered stone are smaller and more toxic. This results in more serious and rapidly progressive health risks for workers.
What engineered stone products will be banned?
The ban will cover the use of all engineered stone products that:
• contain 1 per cent or more crystalline silica;
• are created by combining natural stone materials with
other chemical constituents (such as water, resins, or pigments);
• and undergo a process to become hardened.
Many other man-made products that contain crystalline silica will be exempt from the ban. These include concrete and cement products; bricks, pavers, and other similar blocks; ceramic and porcelain products; wall, floor and roof tiles; grout, mortar, and render; and plasterboard.
For more information, visit safeworkaustralia.gov.au.
Previously installed engineered stone will not need to be removed. Repairs, minor modification, removal and disposal of previously installed engineered stone products, will not be banned. However, effective dust controls will be required for any work with installed engineered stone.
Construction companies want annual wage bargaining that kicked off in March to take into account the cost of training apprentices to avoid overburdening small businesses nurturing the next generation of tradies.
With labour shortages continuing to weigh on the construction sector, the Housing Industry Association says the industrial umpire should factor in the cost of training skilled apprentices.
The Fair Work Commission’s annual review impacting the bank balances of millions of workers on minimum and award wages is underway, with the independent body taking submissions from unions, employer group and governments.
The minimum wage is $23.23 per hour, or about $45,900 a year. Attracting and retaining skilled workers is essential, the Home builders want training costs reflected in pay call
industry group says, especially when home building starts picking up to meet the federal government’s target of 1.2 million new homes over five years.
The residential construction industry has also been under pressure from price increases, delays and material shortages.
“In light of the current landscape, HIA strongly submits that the expert panel takes a conservative approach in this year’s minimum wage review.”
Meanwhile, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is recommending an increase of no more than two per cent and the Australian Industry Group would prefer less than a
2.8 per cent lift.
Yet unions and the federal government remain worried about the influence of moderating but still strong cost of living pressures on the lowest-paid workers.
In its formal submission, the government confirmed it was sticking with the same recommendation as the past two decisions, calling for the real wages of low-paid workers to not go backwards.
It also said lifting the minimum wage would help narrow the gender pay gap, with women disproportionately represented in low-paid and award-reliant jobs. – AAP
When it comes to furniture, think small but mighty. Foldable tables and chairs are your best bets for a small space. They’re easy to stash away when not in use, but also easy to pull out and set up when you have guests. You can also invest in smaller, more permanent furniture such as a two-seater patio table, or even a cosy hammock.
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MIRROR MAGIC
We all know that hanging a mirror inside a small room of a home can give the illusion of space. But did you know the same trick will work outdoors? Consider hanging a weatherproof mirror on a spare wall (it could even be on your little garden shed) to help your backyard area look bigger than it actually is.
Keep y free we found!
The Greenleaf garden arch mirror, which is made from certified fir wood. Ideal for enhancing your patio, alfresco area or garden, it’s available from Mitre 10. Visit the website for local stockist information.
Keep your outdoor area clutterfree by introducing clever storage solutions. If space permits, a small garden shed is a great option, and a relatively easy DIY project. Alternatively, storage benches or boxes will work a treat, while hooks will help remove tools and other bits and pieces from taking up ground space. You could even get creative and make your own storage option to suit your home or garden theme.
Is the most important room in your home looking the worst?
These are our top three plant selections for a small space.
Star jasmine – A popular choice of landscape architects, this climbing plant boasts pretty white flowers and will bring a pop of colour to your yard. Plant it near your fence, garden shed or retaining wall and watch it grow.
Sta of clim wh of ne ret
– Coinedasarchitectural
Cycads – Coined as architectural plants, it’s easy to see why. With their green fronds and sculptural look, cycads bring a touch of luxury to any garden.
Dw the gre
Dwarf lime Tahitian tree – With the fresh cent of citrus, these green leafy trees only grow one to two metres in height. For a feature plant, grow it in an oversized pot and prune the tree into your preferred shape.
OCEANSIDE PROJECTS are a Sunshine Coast solutions based builder with a team having decades of combined experience, enabling us to take care of the design, council approval and complete construction process providing a stress free build for the perfect secondary dwelling or extension for
property. Our philosophy is to deliver exceptional service and communication with full transparency, delivery beyond expectation and stand out from the crowd.
QBCC Licence No: 15187645
View ourgallery are a Sunshine Coast solutions based builder with a team decades
If you like pink, this is the bedding for you. The washed linen-look quilt cover is sure to impress. The cotton doona cover features a twocentimetre self-flange finish and is perfectly paired with natural textures and organic touches. It’s from Pillow Talk
From pastel to pop, have some fun with the various shades of pink.
The Love square cushion was created by unique Noosa business, Cloth. Cloth specialises in custom-made textiles and can take any fabric and turn it into a beautiful product. Alternatively, you can explore their store for pre-made products, such as this cushion. Visit clothnoosa.com/shop
Boutique tile shop offering an extensive range of tiles , stone , vinyl planking & hybrid floors all at affordable prices.
Speak to our friendly team about a free quote for supply & installation of your new tiles.
PinkParadise artprintfrom SunshineCoastArt
The Pink Paradise art print from Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery is available in various sizes and can be presented in either a white, black or oak frame.
we love!
Elevate your contemporary interior with the Via pink square cushion. Featuring an ombre print on waffle texture, this cushion adds a touch of modern sophistication to any space. Visit kasaustralia.com.au for local stockists.
This stoneware vase is perfect as a décor piece. The vase in handpainted, which means some variations in colour and design will occur. It’s from Adairs
we love!
The Palm throw for Cloth Noosa. Handmade in Australia, it features a combination of brown, gold and vibrant hues. Visit cloth.com/shop
Call on the natural hues of brown, cream and gold to bring a sophisticated touch and a calming effect to your home.
The Fern throw from Coastal Drift Homewares features a simple yet sophisticated design. This elegant throw can effortlessly elevate the aesthetic of any space.
Elegant and timeless, the Linen House Leon amber vase features a unique curved shape and is crafted from glass with an ombre effect. It’s from Domayne
Our ‘Discover the Power of Colour’ sale features savings on many carpet and hard flooring styles & designs.
Visit us in-store or view at choicesflooring.com
Choices Flooring Maroochydore
3/32 Wises Rd, Maroochydore
(07) 5443 6280
Earthy tones and organic shapes collide to create the Paint It Brown Down wall art. It will blend beautifully into a neutral space, elevating your wall. It’s from Domayne
The warm brown Under The Sun canvas print is a reminder of summer days and relaxing with loved ones under the heat of the sun. Bring coastal vibes into your space thanks to the warm brown tones and pops of turquoise blue, orange and white. It’s from Society Three Home, Bli Bli.
MOVED!
