Photo: Emma Harrop
FOR ITS EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY AND INNOVATION... JG King
JG King Homes: Building Forever Homes in Goulburn Murray
Standing out as a leader in the Goulburn Murray region, JG King Homes is celebrated for its commitment to exceptional quality and innovation. Established in 1985, JG King Homes revolutionised the Victorian construction industry by being the first to offer homes with TRUECORE® steel frames and Colorbond® steel roofs. This pioneering approach ensures that every home is built to last, supported by a 50-year structural warranty*. The use of steel frames guarantees durability, resistance to termites, and protection against weather damage, making JG King Homes a preferred choice for enduring construction.
A key feature of JG King Homes is their dedication to energy efficiency. Each home is designed to achieve a 7-star energy rating, incorporating European-style (uPVC) double-glazed windows that maintain comfortable indoor temperatures yearround. This focus on energy efficiency translates to significant savings on energy bills and a reduced environmental impact.
Specialising in ranch-style homes, JG King Homes offers
expansive, single-storey living that combines modern Echuca or tranquil rural areas such as Mansfield, their homes are perfectly suited to diverse environments.
For more information, contact Kelly Ferguson on 0499
CELEBRATED
Homes are known for their revolutionary construction, dedication to energy efficiency, style and charm. Pictured is new home adviser, Kelly Ferguson in The Belmore 32 display home, which you can view in the Sevens Creeks Estate, Kialla. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
Designing aspirational homes to reflect who you are
HOME is everything. It’s where you live, love work, dream and play and should not only reflect uniquely who you are but what you aspire your lifestyle to be.
At Shepparton’s own, Emily Jayne Interior Designs, founder and creative force, Emily Bover understands only too well the importance of designing transformative spaces that not only create a sense of peace and harmony but breathe personality and charm.
Emily’s work was truly exceptional. We were blown away by her expertise and attention to detail.
Prioritising a personal approach to realising the distinctive functional and aesthetic needs of every individual, Emily begins each new venture by getting to know her clients through an initial consultation. From floor plan reviews to design development, all the way through to the layout of furniture and material selections, Emily’s broad knowledge and passion for great design not only transforms ordinary
Testimonial from Former Client, Lilly
spaces into havens of beauty and comfort but enhances quality of life.
Launching her now thriving business late last year, Emily brings a wide range of experience to the venture, completing projects that span both the residential and commercial sectors. Now conveniently located in Shepparton, Emily is pleased to provide a responsive, local service working with clients in person to eliminate waits and to streamline communication.
Full of praise for Emily’s meticulous and dedicated expertise, former client Lilly said:
“Emily’s work was truly exceptional. We were blown away by her expertise and attention to detail. She took the time to understand our vision for our dream home and delivered a concept design that exceeded our expectations. Her dedication to her craft and willingness to go above and beyond to source unique
thriving Shepparton venture. Understanding the importance of designing transformative spaces that not only create a sense of peace and harmony, Emily delivers a personal approach, consulting clients to capture and convey their personal needs, tastes and personality in her designs for their homes. Photo: Supplied
features was truly remarkable. We are so grateful for her hard work and commitment to making our dream home a reality. We cannot thank Emily enough for her exceptional work.”
Welcome to the spring 2024 edition of House & Land
THE sun at home warms better than the sun elsewhere and as spring returns, heralding blue skies, warmth and invigorated plans and projects, it is the perfect time to delve deep into the region’s thriving real estate offerings. It is also the time to investigate the ever-diversifying local market to find the right contractor and appliance retailer to suit your needs as well as source bespoke services to beautify your home.
Throughout the pages of this spring 2024 edition of House & Land you will find local businesses to help transform your notion
of the ideal home into a reality. For those dreaming of a fresh start, you’ll also find opportunities in the market to not only secure
land but to get started on a build that will forge your place in the world. So, as the sun begins to cascade once
again, warming you with the resurgence of life, let The Adviser’s House & Land supplement inspire you to plan big.
EXCEPTIONAL, LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNER... Emily Jayne Interior Designs is the creative brainchild of Emily Bover (pictured), who brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her
Grab a piece of legacy from $245,000
SANCTUARY Park estate in Kialla Lakes continues to attract those looking to build, thanks to its scenic walking and cycling tracks and proximity to schools and parklands. The latest stage, the Bolzonello Release, offers over 45 titled blocks ready for immediate construction.
The Bolzonello Release stands out due to its deep connection with the local Italian community. In 1980, Lino and Iolanda Bolzonello transformed an 11-acre property on Marlboro Drive, Kialla, into a self-sustaining paradise with animals, a vegetable garden, a small orchard and a miniature vineyard. Following Lino’s passing in 2009, Iolanda and their daughter Louise have worked to honour his memory and celebrate the Italian heritage he brought to Australia and Sanctuary Park.
Waiting could mean paying $25,000 or more extra for land. In the next three years,
Rocky Gagliardi, director of Gagliardi
Civil works on the Bolzonello Release began in 2022, and titled land ranging from 719m² to 935m² is now available, with an additional 40 blocks coming soon. The area features tree-lined streets, picturesque views, and a network of parklands with a two-meter-wide walking and bicycle path connecting Sanctuary Drive to Archer Road and Melbourne Road.
Scott Real Estate
SCENIC, HERITAGE LAND OFFERING EXCEPTIONAL LIFESTYLE OPTIONS... With picturesque walks, cycling tracks and a close proximity to schools, the Bolzonello Release offers over 45 blocks ready for immediate construction. Presenting titled land for $245,000 the smaller building size covenant advances the flexibility to construct budget-friendly homes. Pictured from Gagliardi Scott Real Estate is sales executive, Sean Reidy and principal director, Rocky Gagliardi. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
$300,000 will be scarce.”
Rocky Gagliardi, director of Gagliardi Scott Real Estate, emphasised the urgency of acting now. He said, “Waiting could mean paying $25,000 or more extra for land. In the next three years, prices will rise, and blocks under
Given the competitive price point and the smaller building size covenant, buyers have the flexibility to construct budget-friendly homes. With titled land now available and builders offering attractive incentives, this
is the ideal moment to invest.
Don’t let this unique opportunity slip away before the market changes. Contact Gagliardi Scott Real Estate’s Shepparton office on 03 5831 1800 to secure your piece of Sanctuary Park today.
is just one of Southern Vale Homes award winning designs, showcasing innovative features that set a new standard for value.
Recognising that home is the most beautiful word there is
BEGIN your new home design journey with Shane McDowall, the sales manager and new home consultant at Southern Vale Homes. Returning to Greater Shepparton holding a steadfast commitment to helping clients to create their ideal home and to achieve their investment goals, Shane is at the ready to guide individuals seamlessly from concept to completion, transforming their unique vision into a beautifully crafted reality. Harnessing 14 years’ experience, Shane brings a profound passion for building homes that not only endure but also embody the high standards set by Southern Vale Homes. At Southern Vale Homes, homebuilding is viewed as a true privilege, with the recognition that a home is so much more than just bricks and mortar.
At Southern Vale Homes we take pride in offering clients the chance to personalise our designs through bespoke modifications and colour selections, ensuring that each home is a true reflection of individuality, personality and lifestyle choices.
Experience Award-Winning Excellence at Our Kialla Display Homes.
Step into the epitome of design and craftsmanship with our acclaimed display homes:
The Nova Honored as HIA Victoria's Best Display Home in the $350,000 - $400,000 range, The Nova masterfully combines elegance and functionality, showcasing innovative
Harnessing 14 years’ experience, Shane brings a profound passion for building homes that not only endure but also embody the high standards set by Southern Vale Homes.
features that set a new standard for value in its category.
The Elite Recognised as the Best Regional Display Home in the $500,000 - $600,000 category, The Elite is a beacon of luxury and sophistication. With its unparalleled design and superior finishes, this home redefines upscale living.
Shane McDowall. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
YOUR DREAM HOME AWAITS!
The NOVA
Thoughtfully designed with the growing family in mind, the Nova oozes liveability at its finest! Including popular features like a large pantry, laundry placed off the kitchen, storage cupboard in the garage and a central study nook, you have all the ingredients for your perfect family home or investment.
The ELITE
What’s not to love about this design! From the impressive entrance to the oversized walk in robe, you will instantly fall in love. The work shop in the garage and the generous spaces throughout make this the perfect home design for your family.
Affording you comfort while saving you dollars
ALOCAL leader in tailoring all your heating and cooling solutions, Specialized Heating and Cooling is committed to providing your yearround comfort with honest reliable service and superior products.
Under the guidance of proprietor Graham Mason, the team excels in providing highquality service as authorised agents for a wide range of brands, including warranty work. Their mission is to help clients make the most of government rebates for energy-efficient upgrades, such as replacing old gas heaters with modern air conditioning systems or upgrading to advanced hot water heat pumps.
With summer on the horizon, Specialized Heating and Cooling Shepparton is prepared to guide customers through the complexities of available rebates. “There are thousands of dollars in savings available, and we want to
ACOMMITTED TO PROVIDING YEAR-ROUND COMFORT... The team at Specialized Heating and Cooling excel in providing high-quality service as authorised agents for a wide range of brands. Adept at assisting clients to make the most of government rebates for energy-efficient upgrades, the outlet has expanded its product offerings to complement their top-tier brands.
left is David Russell (sales), Sara Cuthbert (admin) and Graham Mason (owner). Photo: Deanne Jeffers
ensure these savings end up in our clients' pockets,” Graham said.
In response to growing demand for energyefficient solutions, the company has expanded its product offerings to complement top-tier brands like Toshiba, Fujitsu and Braemar
with ActronAir for air conditioning, as well as Evoheat and iStore for hot water heat pumps. These premium products not only deliver significant long-term savings but also offer additional benefits beyond initial rebates.
It’s time to bring your pool back to life!
S winter's chill melts away and spring draws near, it's time to breathe new life into your pool and get it ready for the sunny days ahead. Think of spring cleaning as the ultimate reset for your pool, preparing it to sparkle and shine for a season of fun. Here’s your guide to ensuring your pool is prepped and primed for all the summer enjoyment to come.
1. Inspect for Damage: Start with a thorough check for cracks, leaks, or loose tiles. Early detection of these issues prevents costly repairs and keeps everyone safe.
2. Safety First: Make sure your pool’s gates, fences, and safety equipment are in top condition.
3. Clear Debris: Remove any leaves, branches, or winter debris. Skim the surface and clean out the pump and
skimmer baskets to ensure smooth operation.
4. Scrub Surfaces: Even if you use an automatic cleaner, give your pool a manual scrub. Brush the walls and floor to tackle any algae or buildup.
5. Service Equipment: Check your pump, filter and heater. A professional tune-up can help them perform at their best throughout the season.
6. Balance Chemistry: Test your water and adjust pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels to keep the water clear and algae-free.
7. Shock the Pool: Add a concentrated dose of chlorine or non-chlorine shock to refresh your pool and eliminate any lingering contaminants.
8. Repair the Cover: If you use a winter cover, inspect it for damage and repair or replace it if necessary.
9. Trim Vegetation: Cut back trees and plants near the pool to minimize debris falling into the water.
Pictured from
Full ducted cooling evaporative systems by Year-Round Comfort With The Flick Of A Switch Hot water upgrades Government rebates made easy
Superb winter warmth with Braemar gas ducted heating
70 Benalla Rd, Shepparton (Near Bunnings) 5821 3 65 6
Uptick in the Australian housing market
Positives from Housing Industry Australia
RECENT data from the ABS and insights from HIA economist Maurice Tapang reveal an uptick in the Australian housing market. Lending for the purchase and construction of new homes has been on the rise since early 2024, reflecting a 9.2per cent increase in the June quarter compared to the previous quarter. This growth is widespread across all states, signalling a broadbased recovery in the housing sector.
The resurgence in lending is partly attributed to the return of first-home buyers, with loans issued to this group rising by 5.8 per cent in the June quarter relative to March. This rebound suggests that building activity might be stabilising or is at, or near, the trough in the cycle.
Market confidence seems to be stabilising, after nine months without changes in interest rates. This stable interest rate environment has likely contributed to the increased lending activity.
On the cost front, the ABS reports a significant slowdown in the growth of building material prices. In the year to June 2024, prices rose by just 1.1 per cent, a stark
Acontrast to the rapid increases seen before the pandemic. This easing in material costs could help alleviate some financial pressures within the housing market.
Regionally, Western Australia has experienced the most dramatic increase in lending for new homes, up 53.2 per cent in the June quarter compared to the previous
RECENT DATA... from the ABS and insights from Housing Industry Australia show an upward gain in the housing market signalling a broad-based recovery in the housing sector.
year. Other states also saw gains, with Northern Territory and Queensland rising by 20.9 per cent and 17.1 per cent, respectively. In contrast, South Australia saw a decline of 1.3 per cent. Overall, these trends indicate a recovering and increasingly active housing market.
Preparing for a spring sale
S winter fades and spring approaches, many Victorians are gearing up to list their properties. This season, often called the 'spring selling season,' sees a surge in new listings as warmer weather invites a fresh wave of buyers. If you're considering putting your property on the market, now’s the perfect time to start prepping.
To make your home stand out in this bustling market, focus on a few key areas. Begin with a thorough spring clean. Declutter and clean
both inside and out to create a welcoming, spacious environment. Buyers will appreciate a well-maintained, uncluttered space that feels
larger and more inviting.
Next, address any minor repairs. Small issues like carpet stains or cracked walls might seem insignificant, but they can impact buyers' perceptions. Fixing these minor problems can make a big difference in how your property is received.
Don’t forget the exterior! First impressions
matter, so tidy up your gardens and clear any debris. Ensure your pool, if you have one, is clean and well-maintained.
Finally, consult a local agent. Their expertise will guide you in maximising your property's appeal and achieving the best possible sale price. With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a successful sale this spring.
Photo: Supplied
Spring gardening tips
from Billabong Garden Complex
A ConnectGV social enterprise
AS spring ushers in warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garden for a flourishing season. Start by inspecting your garden tools and equipment. Repair any broken sprinklers, and make sure to sharpen and disinfect your tools. This essential maintenance ensures they perform optimally throughout the growing season.
Next, focus on your soil. Testing it for nutrient levels is crucial, and here at Billabong, we offer a quick and free-soil testing service. Enrich your soil by adding compost and turning it over, which helps improve its structure and nutrient content.
Spring is also the ideal moment to tackle compost and weeds. Turn your compost to get it ready for use and remove any weeds that have emerged over winter before they spread. Applying a thick layer of mulch around your plants will suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
Prepare your vegetable garden by topping it up with quality compost and turning the soil. Once the risk of frost has passed, start planting your spring and summer crops. Consider tomatoes,
basil, sweet corn, eggplant, zucchini, capsicum, chilies, lettuce, cucumbers, and baby spinach. Herbs like thyme, dill, oregano, coriander, mint, and sage are also great additions.
Don’t overlook your lawn. Mow it when it’s tall enough and follow it up by watering and applying a weed and feed product, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon.
Finally, enhance your garden’s appeal with decorative elements. Consider adding a bench under a shady tree, a water feature, or bird baths and houses. Brighten up your decking or veranda with pots of vibrant annuals like petunias, vincas and marigolds. With these steps, your garden will be ready to thrive all season long.
WITH GREEN THUMBS AT THE READY... Ben (left) and Tim are just two of the helpful faces that you’ll see at Billabong Garden Complex when you head in to get all the requirements and expert advice you need to revitalise your garden and lawns this spring. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
surrounding Australian
Discover reimagined acreage living
FAMILIES can now build their own home amongst the gum trees with the brand-new range of acreage designs by Simonds Homes.
Designed to bring luxurious living to expansive properties, these homesteads are thoughtfully crafted to maximise space, comfort and connection to the surrounding Australian landscapes.
With designs ranging from 34 to 45 squares, the new collection of acreage floorplans is perfect for families
Simonds Homes are proud to announce a brand-new range of acreage designs. Pictured is The Rosewood with Elkington facade by Simonds Homes, perfect for families looking for a slower change of pace and with ample space to live and enjoy life across a single level.
looking for a slower change of pace or for sprawling living areas across the one level.
Released with several new facades to match, homeowners can choose from contemporary farmhouse, quintessential Australian and modern architectural styles to make the most of their wide frontage.
Inside, contemporary country living is front and centre, blending modern amenities with rural charm. Families across the Goulburn Valley will enjoy an enclosed central
alfresco, dedicated work and study spaces and zoned wings for the bedrooms and living areas.
Whether you’re looking to build a sophisticated country estate or family retreat for the generations to come, get in touch with the local Simonds team to discover their range of acreage home designs and facades today. Visit simonds.com.au today to explore their new acreage range.
LUXURIOUS LIVING... Thoughtfully crafted to maximise space, comfort and connection to the
landscape,
Photo: Supplied
How to switch-off and unwind
in the comfort of your own home
IN our busy, always-on world, finding time to unwind can feel nearly impossible. Yet, managing stress is essential for boosting brain function, memory, mental health, and even weight management. Here’s a few simple tips for how you can easily relax in the comfort of your own home:
1. Read a book: Just six minutes of reading can slash stress levels by 60 percent. It calms your heart rate, eases muscle tension, and shifts your mind to a more peaceful state. Dive into a good book and let your stress melt away.
2. Listen to music: Music with a tempo of around 60 beats per minute helps your brain sync with calming alpha waves, which are linked to relaxation. Create a playlist of soothing tunes to help you unwind and reset.
3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness switches your brain from “doing” to “being,” allowing you to relax more deeply. It heightens your awareness of your body’s needs and can help you manage stress more effectively by making you more attuned to your own well-being.
4. Practice deep breathing: Deep breathing exercises are a powerful way to reduce tension and stress. By sending calming signals to your brain, deep breathing helps your body relax. Integrate these exercises into your daily routine for noticeable stress relief.
5. Exercise: Exercise not only boosts your health but also elevates your mood. Physical activity ramps up endorphin production, your brain’s natural mood enhancers. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a dance session, find an activity you love and make it a regular part of your life.
Incorporate these practices into your daily routine to recharge and keep stress in check. Even a few minutes each day can make a big difference to your overall well-being!
TAKING THE TIME TO RELAX... is not a luxury, but an essential part of everyday, ensuring not only your mental wellbeing but physical health as well. With simple ways to relax at home, you too can incorporate de-stressing rituals into everyday without fuss or cost. Photo: Supplied
Good interior design is a mirror to wellbeing and joy
IN the hurly-burly of modern life, there is perhaps nothing quite so important as the protection and peace of your own home.
Offering more than just comfort, a home is a haven, a place for you and your loved ones to relax, reboot and simply, be.
With an ever-growing body of psychological research linking good interior design to emotional health and wellbeing, it is important to carefully consider the layout of your own home.
According to the science, while spaciousness, functional layout, sunlight and the incorporation of plants and flowers can elevate mood, conversely clutter, misuse of colour and poor lighting can trigger negative responses such as stress and anxiety.
While a professional interior designer knows how to consciously manipulate decorative elements with the goal of
1.
By Septimus Winner (1827-1902)
The Happiness of Home
JOY AND WELLBEING... is inextricably linked to the interior design of your home. Research underscores the positive impacts of not only aesthetically pleasing spaces on the psychological wellbeing of home occupants but the positive impacts of functionality as well. Photo: Supplied
encouraging creativity, peace and happiness, below are few key elements to consider when beautifying your own home.
Function refers to how you layout a room or prioritise a piece of furniture for practical use over how it looks. A room should first and foremost be user friendly, with easily accessible cupboards and draws, for example spaciousness contributes to elevated moods, while clutter causes high stress levels.
Balance and consistency relate to how furnishings in a space feel like they belong, objects that don’t belong will make
The earth is bright with beauty, And the distant sky is fair; Over hill and o’er the meadow, In the sunlight and the air. How bright and how enchanting, Is each object as we roam, And how sweet is life’s contentment, With the happiness of home.
you feel uncomfortable.
Sunlight in abundance is a mood lifter and is a great energiser and motivator. Spaces that are meant for work or creativity should have ample natural light.
Colour is one of the most impactful elements of design on mental health with research even pointing out that spectrums of colour effect different parts of the body.
Plants and flowers elevate mood with their natural, aesthetic beauty and have a significant relaxing effect.
2. The heart may have its sorrows, And its trials for awhile, But the cares of life are fleeting, Tho’ they rob us of a smile; Yet sweet are life’s endearments, And the joys that ever come, When the soul can find a rapture In the happiness of home.
3. Where words are kindly spoken, And where heart with heart can blend, We can ever find a welcome, As a stranger or a friend; Let the cot be e’er so humble, In this wide world as we roam; There is nought to charm us ever Like the happiness of home.
ELEGANT, COMFORTABLE & BEAUTIFUL FLOOR COVERINGS
Elegant, comfortable and beautifully tactile, carpet is a timeless option for any home whether your look is classic or more fashion-forward. Renowned for its noise-reducing and insulating qualities, today’s carpet lets you create a space that's practical without compromising on style. Call in and see Murray & Mario today!
Melbourne Rd, Shepparton www.carpetcourt.com.au T 5823 2600
Effortless chicken, spinach and lemon pasta
AFTER a busy day, heading home to the familiar sound of your family’s ravenous demands doesn’t have to signal hard work in the kitchen, especially when you have a quick and easy recipe up your sleeve. For a nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for spring, try this simple one-pan chicken and spinach pasta. It’s a great way to prepare a satisfying dinner quickly, so you too can enjoy a relaxing evening.
INGREDIENTS:
• 225 grams gluten-free or whole-wheat penne pasta
• 30 ml (about 1.01 oz) extra-virgin olive oil
• 450g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2.5 ml (about 0.08 oz) salt
• 1.25 ml (about 0.04 oz) ground pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 120 ml (about 4.06 oz) dry white wine
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 250g chopped fresh spinach
• 30g grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Why
DIRECTIONS:
1. Cook pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare chicken: In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add flavourings: Stir in the white wine, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the mixture simmer.
4. Combine ingredients: Remove from heat. Stir in the spinach and cooked pasta. Cover and let it sit until the spinach is wilted.
5. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and top each serving with 7.5 grams of grated Parmesan cheese.
DELICIOUS AND SIMPLE... This quick and easy pasta with chicken, spinach and lemon will satisfy the whole family’s appetite in no time. Photo: Supplied
COUNCIL rates play a crucial role in funding the Greater Shepparton City Council's essential services and infrastructure for the community. The amount each property owner contributes is based on their property’s value, and the council determines the total revenue needed from these rates as part of their annual budget.
Your council rate notification is comprised of the following charges:
General Rates: Calculated from property values.
Administrative Charges: For managing rates and associated services.
Kerbside Service Charges: For waste collection and recycling services.
Fire Services Property Levy: A state government levy collected via council rates to support emergency services.
Right is a graphic explaining how your
Council rates, what they are and how your money is spent
Simple DIY ideas
GIVING YOUR HOME A REVAMP... in spring does not need to be costly. There are a number of cost-effective, and easy DIY ways to make your home look as good as new. Photo: Supplied
TRANSFORMING your home’s walls and floors on a budget is possible with some clever updates that make a big impact. Here’s how you can refresh your space affordably:
REVAMP YOUR WALLS
1. Fresh paint: A new coat of paint can instantly rejuvenate any room. Choose a neutral tone for a timeless appeal or a bold accent wall to express your personality. Painting is a DIY project that can be completed in a weekend. Save money by buying paint in bulk or taking advantage of sales.
2. Upgrade moulding: Enhance your room’s look with updated cornice moulding or trim. Choose cost-effective materials like PVC or foam, which are easier to install and resistant to moisture. Painting the moulding before installation will give it a sleek, finished appearance.
REVITALISE YOUR FLOORS
3. Painted floors: If new flooring isn’t in the budget, consider painting your existing floors. This method works well on wood and concrete surfaces. Create a chic update with a simple checked pattern in neutral colours like beige and white. Ensure the surface is clean and well-prepped before painting.
REFRESH YOUR KITCHEN
4. Cabinet hardware: Replace outdated cabinet knobs and pulls with modern designs to give your kitchen a fresh look. For an even greater transformation, repaint your cabinets. Clean and sand them before applying a light-coloured paint to brighten the space and make it feel larger.
UPDATE BATHROOM HARDWARE
5. Modern fixtures: Replace old taps, showerheads, towel bars and cabinet handles with contemporary pieces. Switching to finishes like brushed nickel or matte black can give your bathroom a sleek, updated look.
PREVENT MOULD
6. Ventilation Fan: Installing a bathroom vent fan can help eliminate foggy mirrors and odours while preventing mould and mildew. This affordable upgrade keeps your bathroom dry and fresh, reducing long-term maintenance issues. While professional installation is recommended, it's still a costeffective solution.
AS winter fades and warmer weather approaches, it's the perfect time to give your lawn the care it needs to thrive this spring. Follow these key steps to ensure your lawn reaches its peak health for the summer
1. Check Soil pH: Use a soil testing kit or probe to measure your lawn’s pH level. The ideal pH for a thriving lawn is 6.5. If needed, adjust the pH to ensure your grass receives the essential nutrients for optimal growth.
2. Aerate Your Lawn: Enhance air, water, and nutrient absorption by aerating your lawn. Use a garden fork or mechanical aerator before applying fertiliser to improve soil health and promote vigorous growth.
3. Apply Fertiliser: Boost new growth and develop strong roots by applying a balanced fertiliser. This will help your lawn establish a robust foundation as the weather warms up.
4. Eliminate Weeds: Remove weeds to prevent them from competing with your grass for nutrients and water. Keeping your lawn weed-free will support a healthier, more vibrant appearance.
5. Water Appropriately: Typically, spring rainfall is sufficient, so limit additional watering. If the weather turns dry, increase your watering but focus on deep, infrequent applications to encourage strong, deep root growth.
