2018 Gympie Home Builders Guide

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Home Builders Guide 2018

NEW ESTATE: Sales manager James van der Male on site at North Park Estate, which is currently selling its first stage.

PHOTO: DONNA JONES

Development all about quality North Park Estate will use its exploratory theme to help new residents discover Gympie GYMPIE is fast becoming a property hotspot, as savvy home owners sell up their modest coast and city properties to upgrade to something truly luxurious here.

With the commute to the coast faster and safer than ever, house prices in Gympie are poised to explode.

Here’s a chance to own a slice of our own tree-change paradise and build the home of your dreams on your own block of land, just two minutes from town.

With convenience and liveability in mind, the development is located close to cafes, restaurants, the aquatic recreation centre and newly refurbished Mary Valley Rattler Station precinct.

The first stage of North Park Estate, developed by JPG Properties, has already sold more than half of its lots, mostly to people looking to upsize or buy their first home in an increasingly more expensive property market.

And most of these people will be new to the area.

Sales manager James van der Male said the interest in North Park had been fairly constant and not surprising with a number of house blocks in the first

release from as little as $122,000.

Three building companies will also be constructing display homes in the estate in the near future.

"We’ve got GJ Gardner, Hotondo and Aspect Homes on board," Mr van der Male said.

‘‘

There’s a strong focus on quality.

The whole way through they’ve pushed for quality.

James van der Male Sales manager JPG Properties He said these companies are already offering house and land packages, but customers have the option of buying land for themselves and employing the builder of their choice to create their dream home.

The first two stages will have 31 lots all up at the estate, situated just off Old Maryborough Road near the water tower, but a second, larger area off Butler Street will also be developed so that eventually, between the stages, there will be 180 lots,

interspersed with a local park, green space, turf and gardens.

The theme for the estate will be exploration with the first two courts named Voyager and Navigator.

The development company and the company taking care of the works, Toomey Contracting, have more than 50 years combined industry experience and have made delivering a quality product a priority.

"There’s a strong focus on the end product. The whole way through they’ve pushed for quality," Mr van der Male said.

Toomey Contracting are taking care of the sewerage, stormwater drainage, electricity, water mains, phone and data infrastructure and have worked hard to reprofile the land to ensure the lots remain low maintenance.

Mr van der Male said he expects property titles to be finalised by mid June and the display homes to be finished and open sometime in October.

For more information you can pop into the sales office at 1/19 Tozer Street (opposite the Mary Valley Rattle station) or you can head online to www.northparkestate.com.au.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Dream big with Hotondo Learn about the difference you get with this Gympie home building company IF YOU have dreams of building your own home whether it is your first home, your family home or an investment for your future wealth creation, Chris and Michelle Dodt from Hotondo Homes have the experience, knowledge and the expertise to assist you in achieving your goals.

They really are Gympie’s Trusted new home specialists.

Here’s what co-owner Michelle Dodt had to say: “Chris and I have been building in the local area for 25 years, 21 of which we’ve spent as proud members of the Hotondo Homes franchise.

“We love what we do and we’re passionate about creating a really positive experience for our clients.

“We have seen many changes in the building industry over the last two decades with most of those changes ensuring that our industry not only survives but continually reaches new levels of professionalism.

“From day one, Chris and I have been committed to making a personal relationship with each of our clients, helping to guide them through their building journey.

“Based on the number of second and third time clients we’ve had over the years, we genuinely believe this approach ensures our clients are completely confident with their choice of builder and actually enjoy the building process.

“After all, for many people building a new home is second only to bringing your new baby home.

“Our business is geared to operate on building a maximum of around 40 homes per year.

“This was a conscious decision of ours to allow us to guarantee Chris can personally and effectively manage every Page 4

The Hotondo Team. (Back from left) Chris Dodt, Michelle Dodt and Col Forrester. (Front) Geoff Bingham, Michelle Johnson, Mary Brown, Vicki Luhrs and Dave Shaw.

PHOTO: RENEE ALBRECHT home under construction.

“We have seen others take on more than they can handle over the years and inevitably something will be lost along the way: usually the quality of the construction and the close working relationship with each family.

“We have a motto that we live by “you cannot buy trust and integrity; you must earn it”.

“None of this would be possible of course without a great team of people.

From “Hello to handover” our team are

here to help.

“We are very proud of our team along with all of our trusted, qualified subcontractors who will work with our clients to ensure that they achieve their new home.”

Pop in to the Eureka Display home at 2 Glastonbury Road, Southside Gympie.

For more information call into the office at 20 Excelsior Rd, Gympie, just up from Gympie Central Shopping Centre or phone 5482 2000 or 0418 799 659 or email chris@hotondogympie.com.

The rest of the Hotondo Team Sales - Michelle Johnson – 28 years’ experience in the building industry, Michelle has been with Hotondo for more than three years and is there to help you.

Drafting – Tony Smith has been Hotondo’s drafty for more than 15 years – he has knowledge beyond his years.

Estimation – Geoff Bingham - 38 years as a qualified builder with the last 10 years as an estimator for Hotondo – he gets it right from the ground up.

Colour selection – Anna Paroz – 19 years’ experience as a colour consultant plus has drafting qualifications – Anna has worked with Hotondo for 14 years and will bring your hopes and dreams to life.

Orders/Purchase – Dave Shaw – 38 years – qualified cabinetmaker – been with Hotondo for four years – client selection - making sure what you want is what you get.

On-site supervisor – Col Forrester – Qualified builder with 26 years’ experience – Col has supervised more than 250 home constructions for Hotondo in his six years and is a valuable member of the team. He is your man on site.

Office administration – Mary Brown – 37 years’ experience with the last 15 years working closely with Hotondo and has a wealth of knowledge about the building industry. Mary helps make sure that all procedures are followed to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Client liaison/contract administration – Vicki Luhrs – joined the Hotondo team last year after 15 years’ experience with Sunshine Mitre 10. She loves the interaction with the clients and brings a fresh exciting approach to each building journey.

Home Builders Guide 2018

Complete a pre-building checklist THOSE taking the plunge to build a new home should make these checks so it’s smooth sailing all the way.

■ Have you worked out your budget including the cost of the land, land valuation, legal fees, duty, settlement agents fees, rates and taxes (including land tax), site works, building costs, furnishing costs, landscaping and moving expenses?

■ You may wish to consider seeking the services of a mortgage broker or an independent financial adviser. Are you eligible for any financial assistance from the government? Shop around to ensure you get the best package and seek independent advice if you think you need it.

■ Does the locality you have chosen

meet the needs of your family? Find out about bus services, schools, playgroups, shops, doctors, hospitals, dentists, places of worship and anything else important to you. Make certain any proposed improvements for the area are likely to eventuate.

■ Have you checked with the developer whether the land has any encumbrances, easements, proposed resumptions or restrictive covenants? These appear on the title deeds.

■ Is there likely to be any delay in subdivision approvals that might prevent the builder lodging plans with the local council?

■ Have you checked with the local council whether there are any future subdivisions, road changes or any special building conditions or covenants that apply?

■ If the block has a strata title, have you checked with the council whether there are any special building requirements?

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Home Builders Guide 2018

First class real estate

GYMPIE Regional Realty boasts some of the industry’s most experienced staff, outstanding customer service and first-class real estate for sale or rent.

John and Margaret Cochrane specialise in working with both major developers and smaller landowners to market their blocks.

They also work hand in hand with local builders as well as selling residential blocks.

This is their 10th year in real estate and once again they will be looking forward to the yearly draw, where one of their lucky clients can win either life-changing cash or a brand new car.

There is either $250,000 or a car to be won in the sales department and $100,000 or a car to be won in the rental department.

“To date we have given away 11 cars in total. We would love to see the cash won this year,” John said.

You can be assured the team has what it takes to ensure your absolute satisfaction when buying, selling or renting your next property.

There is also a team of motivated property specialists who, over the years, have assisted hundreds of happy clients in the purchase or sale of their great Australian dream.

“Along with our dedicated administration staff we are here to provide you with the highest quality service. Like our motto states ‘we’re here to help’,” John said.

LOCAL KNOW-HOW: Marg and John Cochrane of Gympie Regional Realty and Noosa Regional Realty – Lifetime Locals.

PHOTO: RENEE ALBRECHT Page 6

No matter what you re building

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Page 7

Home Builders Guide 2018

Take the stress out of your renovations REMODELLING homes can often introduce unnecessary stress, expenses and complications.

Reducing the amount of chaos during the time you are renovating can be simple and achieved by completing some easy tasks.

In kitchens and bathrooms especially, keeping the same position of the kitchen sink and toilet can save you money, time and stress.

Avoid changing any major plumbing or lighting, as it adds to the cost of your remodelling and could become a hassle.

Completing tasks while renovating is often dreaded, but it doesn’t need to be.

Jobs such as simple demolition can easily save you from hiring unneeded tradies, as long as you take care.

Other simple tasks that can be accomplished by yourself include designing and assembling furniture.

Helping out can easily assist in keeping your house stress free while remodelling.

You can help out those around you by

doing little things here and there such as sanding and helping at the end of the day with cleaning up.

A tidy working space can eliminate unwanted stresses and will remove risks around the place, which makes cleaning up at the end of the day one of the most

important jobs.

Finalising your decisions could potentially become a long process so it is important to start making decisions long before you begin the process of restoring your home.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Alcove resurgence is at the top end of design

Whether you call it a recess, a nook, a niche or an alcove, there are just as many ways to include them in your new build or home renovation PREVIOUSLY, these design elements were only seen in period properties, or as the result of difficult renovations, but these handy nooks have seen a resurgence in recent years.

Here are a variety of ways to embrace them in your home.

THE BATHROOM Recessed shelving really comes into its own in the shower; it’s perfect for holding bottles and keeping everything neat and tidy.

Niches are great for general storage.

An alcove over the bath is practical and pretty.

THE BEDROOM Alcoves are most definitely at home in

the bedroom, especially when they surround a luxurious bed, creating an easy-to-access library and shelf display, all in one.

THE LIVING AREA Alcoves provide the perfect space to show off works of art such as sculptures.

There’s no need for a pedestal, and it’s easy to install lighting to complement your piece.

THE KITCHEN While alcoves have many practical uses in the kitchen (think recessed microwaves, stacked cookbooks or neatly hidden appliances), it’s the perfect place to install something pleasing to the eye to add to the room’s aesthetics.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Adjust your Aspect

Builder has the expertise for big or small projects

By DONNA JONES donna.jones@gympietimes.com

YOU’RE in safe hands when you build with Aspect Homes.

Doug Channells has more than 27 years building experience on jobs both big and small.

At the start of his career, Doug was building ships and Rivercats in Cairns and was also part of a construction team building navy ships for the Defence Force.

He has also worked construction at the mines and holds two trades, as a qualified builder and a qualified boilermaker.

He has been living and working in the Gympie region for the last five years, starting Aspect Homes in July 2016.

He really loves doing customised work

One of Doug’s recent builds at Jones Hill.

Page 10

THE ASPECT HOMES TEAM: (From Left) Fiona and Doug Channells and building administrator Amy Brown.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED when he can and isn’t intimidated by the bigger jobs, having been the building supervisor for a major construction company in Cairns.

At this firm the average price of home and renovation projects was more than $1M and sourcing unique, one of a kind installations was something he particularly enjoyed.

“I like to challenge my mind and do something different,” he said.

Now at the helm of Aspect Homes, he relishes the chance to do both custom and project homes, and has the expertise to do both.

“We do whatever you want,” he said.

“We don’t want to loose connection with the customer. We do that by keeping the company smaller and more focussed.”

He also feels strongly about supporting local suppliers and sub-contractors and providing partial sponsorship to sports teams like the Gympie Harlequins Cricket team.

“We buy everything local – using locally sourced materials installed by local subbies,” Doug said.

“I want the local community to support us, so I need to support them.”

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Stay out of hot water ON AVERAGE, you can expect your hot water system to last between 10-15 years.

They do require ongoing maintenance or servicing every three to five years by a licenced plumber and this will help to prolong the life of the system.

But there are things you can do to help the cause.

PULL THE RELIEF VALVE This is the part of the system that allows the water to expand during the heating cycle and releases overtemperature water.

They are meant to drip 3-5 litres of water a day, so they need to remain functional.

All you need to do is to pull the lever and let the water run at full flow for about 10 seconds.

THE DUO VALVE This is the main water isolation, or the on/off valve to the system.

If they remain dormant for long enough, the next time it’s turned on, they will generally leak and sometimes replacement is not such an easy job.

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Turning the valve on and off every three to six months will ensure functionality.

KEEP IT CLEAN Keeping your hot water system clean and free of a dirt build up will help.

Something you need to get a plumber to do is to check the anode.

There is a rod in the tank called the sacrificial anode.

It’s designed to sacrifice itself to the elements in the water before the steel cylinder starts rusting.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

10 top tips to keep you cool ahead of summer

Maintenance on air-conditioning units sure to guarantee optimum efficiency

NOW the cooler weather is here, it’s a perfect time to gauge the health of your air-conditioning unit.

Check out these 10 tips for keeping your cool next summer.

1. Regular servicing will extend the life of your unit.

2. Clean filters regularly – at least once a month.

3. Check your drainpipe for blockages if you haven’t used the air-conditioning for a while. Wasps and ants like to build nests in the ends of the pipe and, if it becomes blocked, water may build up and flow from the head unit.

4. Make sure behind the outdoor unit is clear of leaves and rubbish.

If the coil becomes blocked, the unit will not operate properly (wall brackets are a great idea to keep debris from building up).

5. A coat of polish to the outdoor unit will lengthen its life span. A rust treatment also is recommended if you are close to a salty environment.

6. Don’t run your air-conditioning at 18 degrees. That won’t make it cooler, just more expensive to run. The optimum setting is 22-24C. 7. Ask your installer about the dehumidifier function as this is a very energy-efficient way to run your air-con.

8. Close all your windows. If windows are left open, your cold air will find its

OFF SEASON: Keep your cool next summer by seeing to your air-con now.

PHOTO: SCYTHER5 way out.

9. Window tinting is a good idea. By blocking the sun’s UV rays, your unit will not have to work as hard, thereby saving you money and reducing the heat load.

10. After you have washed your filters, spray them with Glen-20 or your choice of disinfectant. This will deter geckos and ants from making your head unit a home and will also act as a deodoriser.

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Page 13

Home Builders Guide 2018

Create a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle

Outdoor rooms have the advantages of indoor rooms, but with far less cost involved AN OUTDOOR room is a room without the added encumbrance of fixed walls.

Ideal for our balmy Australian climate, it gives you all of the advantages of an indoor room while still allowing you to make the most of outdoor living.

WHAT IS THE KEY TO MAKING THE MOST OF A SMALL OUTDOOR ROOM? It’s all in the planning and design of the space.

Small outdoor rooms demand careful planning.

By working with rather than against the issues presented by a small space you’ll not only be able to use the space more efficiently but also maximise the perception of space.

There are many ways in which you can make a small outdoor room appear more spacious.

First, try to use the space for one purpose only. That way you’ll be able to fully utilise the area, be it an outdoor dining room, poolside pavilion or outdoor entertainment space, without feeling like the space is letting you down.

Choose your priority and plan for that alone.

Make small outdoor rooms appear larger by keeping it simple. Reduce the number of elements such as furniture, lighting and accessories and don’t be afraid of blank space.

When it comes to furniture, space-efficient and low pieces are ideal.

Remember, the elements don’t need to be small themselves.

One large accessory will have a greater impact than several smaller ones, which often look cluttered.

WHY BUILD AN OUTDOOR ROOM? It costs less to build an outdoor room than it does to add on a room.

An outdoor room gives you the ability to have a room with inclusions that just don’t work indoors, such as landscaping, a barbecue area, a spa or even a plunge pool.

Outdoor living is healthy living.

Just relaxing and enjoying an outdoor room is a sure way to lift your spirits.

TIPS FOR DESIGNING AN OUTDOOR ROOM The trick to designing an outdoor

room is to make it complement your existing home architecture and surroundings.

Create the perfect mood by strategically installing lights.

An outdoor sound system is a great way to create atmosphere.

When positioned correctly, mirrors can bring light into an outdoor room and reflect key points, making the space look bigger than it is.

Restrict the number of plant varieties and opt instead for a simple, flowing landscape in a single form.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Creating a cosy, comfortable bedroom SINCE most of us spend about one-third of our lives in bed, it makes sense to create a cocoon of loveliness.

As you’ll be spending a great deal of time there, here’s everything you need to know about creating the most comfortable bedroom possible.

First, a good mattress is essential.

The good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune for quality but you do have to try it.

You can mattress-test at a store or you can buy a mattress from one of the newer companies that will deliver to your home and offer a free trial period.

Once you have the quality and comfort that suits your needs, you need to dress the bed.

The golden rule is, whenever possible, choose natural fibres, starting with a mattress protector or mattress topper.

Choose 100 per cent cotton or feathers.

Those with allergies may have to consider an allergy-sensitive mattress protector.

Next comes the bed linen.

Again, choose natural fabrics, either 100 per cent cotton, linen, bamboo or silk, or a combination of any of these pure fabrics.

If your budget allows, choose stone-washed, pure French linen as it is not only soft to the touch but is extremely

long-lasting, outlasting silk and cotton many times over.

For the cooler months, pure wool blankets and pure down duvets may cost a little more but they too will outperform and outlast synthetics.

MicStar Homes proud member of the Independent Builders Network.

MicStar Homes is a local family business that has been specialising in new homes and renovations in Gympie for over 20 Years.

Recently MicStar homes have partnered with the Independent Builders Network (IBN) and is now able to offer volume builder pricing whilst still offering the personal experience and flexibility of dealing directly with the builder.

Check out our website to view the range of 120 plans that we have to offer or give Michael a call on 0409 224 746 to talk to a builder today.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Save energy and money with rebate Gympie region residents can jump online and apply for rebates of up to $300

IF YOU’RE building or renovating, think green and install energy-efficient appliances and you will not only save on your power bill but could be eligible for a rebate of up to $300.

Energy Minister Anthony Lynham said first rebates would already be flowing back into the first applicants’ bank accounts by now.

Dr Lynham said those people buying new appliances needed to purchase one with a four-star energy rating to be eligible.

“It’s one of the best ways to save on your electricity bill and that’s why this rebate is part of our $2 billion Affordable Energy Plan to help make Queenslanders’ power bills more affordable,” he said.

Energy Efficiency Council chief executive officer Luke Menzel said big appliances humming away in the background were often massive energy hogs and new models with high star ratings could be much cheaper to run.

Upgrading to a new, more efficient fridge or airconditioner could be one of the easiest ways of cutting your energy bill, he said.

The rebates apply to new, eligible four-star or higher appliances purchased

from January 1 this year – $200 for washing machines, $250 for fridges and $300 for airconditioners.

Rebates are limited to one per household.

The rebates are part of the government’s $2 billion Affordable Energy Plan. The plan includes: ■ $50 a year off every household bill over the next two years ■ An annual discount for regional Ergon customers who take up Ergon’s direct debit Easy Pay Rewards payment options – $75 for households and $120 for small businesses ■ Ensuring electricity prices for typical

households and small businesses remain below inflation on average over the next two years.

To apply, visit www.qld.gov.au /appliancerebate.

Customers who have already signed up to be notified will receive an email or text advising them that applications have opened.

Applying requires a scan or photo of the tax invoice or receipt for the appliance purchased, your National Metering Identifier number from your electricity account, the appliance make and model number and your bank account details.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Green up living spaces with easy-care succulents When you are moving into your new home, try growing some of the succulents in the senecio family PERFECT for part-shade or indoor situations, succulents in the senecio family only need occasional watering.

This time of year, you will barely need to water them at all.

They all have long, slender stems that can grow more than 1m long, perfect for hanging baskets or pots on high shelves.

Perhaps the most popular and well-known is string of pearls (senecio rowleyanus), which has round leaves that look like green peas (or pearls) along the stems.

String of beans (senecio radicans) has longer, pointy leaves shaped like beans.

Another great plant is string of tears.

At first glance it looks a lot like a string of beans, with slightly rounder but still pointy leaves.

All have little white flowers in summer, which some people love, but can look untidy

and can easily be taken off.

However the blooms do have a lovely nutmeg fragrance so if you don’t mind the look you can enjoy the scent.

These plants are magnificent for time-poor lovers of indoor plants.

Apart from their minimal water needs they grow slowly, making them ideal as a potted plant as they rarely outgrow their container.

You can make new plants from well-established ones by taking cuttings or just drape the long strings up and over the potting mix so they grow roots and become new strands.

They grow best in a warm position in early morning sun, filtered light or bright shade.

They will rot if they get too wet and cold in winter, so it’s best to keep them a bit dry.

Too much water is worse than too little for these plants.

You can use them in a mixed planting with other succulents.

Because they do most of the growing hanging over the edges of the container, there is plenty of room for other things to fill out the top.

Just make sure you use companions that will enjoy similar conditions – dryish and shady.

They can be great as an under-planting for bromeliads and certain types of orchids.

They appreciate a feed a couple of times during the growing season but back off completely in winter.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Be open to ideas for windows and doors

view, large glass sliding doors or bi-fold doors or windows that come in large configurations are probably what you’re looking for.

If ventilation is important to you, you’re obviously not going to want fixed windows.

SECURITY You can’t have a home without windows and doors: that would be a doomsday bunker.

But because windows and doors are a home’s weak point, it’s important to factor security options into your choices.

COORDINATION You want to coordinate your windows and doors with your home’s architectural style.

You also want to match or coordinate the frame colour with your roof, walls and maybe even your driveway.

ORIENTATION Your windows and doors will be your home’s source of natural light.

The size and orientation of your windows in relation to the sun, along with your type of glazing, will determine how much sunlight streams into each

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- New Homes - Renos

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room.

Your architect or building designer can recommend appropriately sized and placed windows and doors.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY The vast majority of your home’s heat loss and heat gain come from windows, so choosing energy-efficient windows can have a real effect on your power bill.

Your window’s design, glass type, glazing and seals determine how energy efficient it is.

ACOUSTICS Do you live in a busy area? Then you may be interested in windows that are specifically designed for acoustic performance.

These windows reduce the neighbourhood, traffic and building noise.

BUDGET Of course, the windows and doors you buy ultimately have to fit within your budget.

By prioritising the features you’re looking for, you can ensure you choose the best windows and doors for your budget.

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IF YOU’RE in the market for windows and doors for your home, you’ve probably noticed the wide range of options that are available.

With different sizes, frames, colours, glazing and styles, the variety can be a little overwhelming.

So here are some tips to make it easier for you to choose the right windows and doors for your home.

AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS It may sound obvious, but it’s important to make sure the windows and doors you choose comply with Australian standards.

Consult with your builder or architect to find out which standards you need to look for and adhere to.

SHOWROOMS Where possible, visit showrooms so you can see potential windows and doors in person.

You’ll get a much better idea of the look and feel of a window or door when it’s displayed in its proper context, or an imitation of its proper context.

ARCHITECTURE Another obvious tip, but you’d be surprised how often people forget it: make sure you choose windows and doors that match your home’s architectural look and style.

Your architect or building designer should be able to give you recommendations about the style of windows and doors you should choose to suit your property’s character.

PURPOSE The windows and doors you select also need to fit the purpose they’re meant to fulfil.

For maximum light or showcasing a

Home Builders Guide 2018

Laying it out straight

When it comes to finishing your new or renovated home with decor, rugs are a great way to define spaces TO HELP you identify the many types of rugs available, here is a run down of the most common.

TUFTED RUGS These rugs make up the vast majority of the rugs and carpets sold.

The tufted material is injected into a backing material, which is then bonded to another material, such as hessian, for added strength.

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KNOTTED RUGS These rugs can be machine-made or human-made, depending on their origins.

The thread making up the carpet is pulled through the backing material and arranged in colours and patterns.

FLAT WEAVE RUGS Threads or long pieces of material are woven in and out of the cotton instead of being tied around it. Soumak, dhurrie and kilim rugs are all examples.

PERSIAN RUGS Persian rugs are incredibly elegant and their patterns tend to be elaborate as they are often crafted by hand.

Often valued higher than other rugs, they can be collectable.

EMBROIDERED AND AUBUSSON RUGS Highly collectable, they are traditionally hand-stitched on to a cotton or linen backing, while held taut by a frame.

GYMPIE’S 20

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Home Builders Guide 2018

Banish the boring old beige-out Try these easy, affordable ways to stop your home’s interior decor drowning in a sea of brown and beige

OLD HAT: It may have been all the rage a decade ago, but boring neutral tones don’t cut the mustard for modern interior design.

PHOTO: KATARZYNABIALASIEWICZ entire lounge area or, in a bedroom, it’s larger than your bed frame.

When it comes to artwork, the bigger the better. That’s within proportion, of course.

A sizeable piece will not only provide your space with wow factor, but will also divide the beige accents.

The rug and artwork selection should reflect your new colour scheme with blues, whites and even a hint of metallic to create interest.

If you’ve fallen victim to the circa 2004 beige and brown everything, it’s highly likely you’ve got timber furniture, probably sitting on timber floors or beige tiles.

To break up your flooring, try painting some of your existing timber pieces in

white and replace the hardware with knobs or handles to suit your new style.

If your budget extends further than simply replacing the basics, some larger-scale alterations to your home will have a greater effect.

Repainting your interior walls in a crisp, blue-based white will transform your space, as will changing window treatments.

Replace timber venetians and cream curtains with white shutters or roller blinds and beautiful textured white curtains.

Other considerations such as re-covering lounges, adding a patterned accent chair and small metallic side tables are perfect ways to break up a neutral palette.

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THINK mid-2000s: we surrounded ourselves in a huge sea of brown and beige.

That gorgeous brown lounge looked stunning next to that taupe feature chair, which beautifully complemented that beige shaggy rug and creamy white walls.

So how do we break the sea of neutrals without replacing whole pieces of furniture?

Start by selecting a colour to introduce into your interior space.

You can use any colour within reason but, in this instance, blue is our example.

Blue works beautifully with a neutral palette, and combining different shades with white will significantly lighten and boost your sea of beige.

Using different sizes, patterns and textures to add depth – start with cushions, throws and home decor items.

Once you’ve got the hang of it, rugs and artwork are two larger pieces you can introduce to break the brown.

Make sure your rug fits under the

Home Builders Guide 2018

Bathroom renos on the rise

Master Builders survey finds most people prefer whole-house changes

A MASTER Builders survey of its members has found the number of bathroom renovations has jumped to 31.5 per cent, up from 25 per cent in 2016.

The survey found most people (38 per cent) undertake a whole-house renovation, while others prefer to do a deck or patio (18 per cent) or kitchen (7 per cent).

OTHER FINDINGS:

BATHROOMS: Free-standing showers topped the list of amenities expected in a bathroom project. Showers are also expected to include double showerheads, no glass screens, and no step entrance.

Free-standing bathtubs are also important. Smart technology such as smart lighting and intelligent toilets are finding their place in the bathroom.

KITCHENS: Island benches continue to be the most sought-after amenity in the kitchen, while butler’s pantries have also become a key feature. Smart technology and appliances such as wine coolers, built-in coffee machines and smart fridges are important. Other features often requested include manufactured stone benchtops, breakfast bars to save on space, and top-quality appliances.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS: The outdoor kitchen is an area of growing demand and it is becoming more integral to the liveability of the home. To some extent, it is still regarded as a luxury item and will be one of the first things to go if the contract price needs to be reduced or if space is at a premium. When the outdoor kitchen is installed, it is getting bigger and becoming more sophisticated.

Typically, there is a connection to water and electricity to allow for sinks, wine fridges and range hoods. Stainless steel, polished concrete finishes are popular, as are pizza ovens and turkey-sized rotisseries.

SMART HOMES AND TECHNOLOGY: This is the area where the least demand is being seen. The high cost and complexity is regarded as a reason why it has not taken off, as one respondent put it. In cases where people are including smart technology, it is often about having mobile phone control of lighting, air-conditioning, audio-visual equipment and other devices. Outside the home, people are looking for internetconnected security cameras, digital intercoms and keyless entry. Technology to improve energy efficiency is also being requested, including power-saving devices and solar-power generation.

LIGHTING: LED is virtually the only trend in lighting. LEDs are now completely dominating the market and used right throughout the building downlights, pendant lights, feature lights and strip lighting. LEDs have allowed strip lighting to become more common as rebates in the cabinet, skirtings, pelmets or ceiling coffers. Increasingly, they are being controlled remotely, via mobile phones.

LEDs are regarded as an affordable, energy-efficient option. But there were concerns about the quality that is being imported.

UPGRADE: Bathroom renos are on the rise according to a Master Builder’s survey.

PHOTO: IN4MAL COLOUR SCHEMES AND MATERIAL CHOICE: Neutral, natural and earth colours whites, greys tans and timber continue as favourites. Also popular are rustic features and in some cases even flashbacks to the 70s with woodgrain cupboard doors and colour laminate .

Hamptons style is also in greater demand. When it comes to materials, black taps and wallpaper are growing in popularity. Outside the home, low maintenance and value for money will always be important considerations.

APPLIANCES: Top-quality appliances are still highly sought after. Stainless steel and quality brands, such as the big European ones, are the most requested.

Double gas ovens and dishwasher drawers are new trends, while induction cooktops and steam ovens continue to grow in popularity.

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Home Builders Guide 2018

From humble beginnings...

Classiqué Blinds, Screens and Awnings is the name to remember for window treatments CLASSIQUÉ Blinds, Screens and Awnings – formally known as Advantage Screens and Blinds – is locally owned and operated, servicing Gympie and surrounding areas with a friendly and honest service.

Warren and Debbie Bradford established Advantage Screens and Blinds in 2009 during some testing times, being new to the area and Gympie’s notorious floods.

Warren, having been in the industry for 22 years, saw the need for quality products and service in the local area.

So starting from scratch with hard work, determination and by listening to the requirements of their customers, the couple has had success and growth of the business.

Originally working out of a garage to now owning Classiqué Blinds, Screens and Awnings, the business now has a loyal staff of six operating out of their showroom at 16 Reef St, Gympie.

Warren and Debbie are no strangers to hard work and are committed to giving Page 22

back to the community where possible.

“We are very community-minded, doing our best to help where it is needed, loving to help the homeless and needy,” Debbie said.

They have supported the ADRA appeal and the SDA Soup Kitchen in Brisbane by providing blankets, warm clothing and personal hygiene packs to be distributed to people in need.

In September last year they took the huge step to become independent, without support from a franchise behind them.

Using their skills and knowledge they were able to source new Australian suppliers, allowing them to expand their quality product range, which now includes new and exciting Everlast external venetians, decorative screening, Zipslide retractable fly screens and battery-operated external fabric awnings with solar charging.

These are only a few of the many quality products available to their customers.

All installations come with a two-year installer’s warranty, as well as the manufacturer’s statutory product warranty and an up to 25-year transferable warranty on certain products.

They offer systems to help reduce your power bills, cooling your home in summer and keeping it warmer in winter.

They can protect your home and family from intruders, bugs and weather with security products including Crimsafe, Panther Plus and Alugard.

Classiqué Blinds, Screens and Awnings offers friendly, reliable, quality service and products, whether you have a home or a castle.

The team consists of Debbie, Sue and Natalie in the office, Rodney in the store room and Warren, Neil and Jacob measuring and installing on site.

To assist you in selecting the correct products and colours for your application, phone their friendly staff on 5481 2846 to secure a free, no-obligation measure and quote.

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Building dream homes for over 20 years!

Choose your local builders, Chris & Michelle Dodt.

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Chris and Michelle Dodt are your new home builders in the Gympie and surrounding areas.

Whether you’re looking for your first home, dream home or even an investment property, Hotondo Gympie has the solution for you. They also specialise in acreage and split level designs meaning they can build your dream home no matter what kind of block you own. With over 90 flexible floor plans, you’re sure to find a design you love.

Call us today on 0418 799 659 Display Home: 2 Glastonbury Rd Southside Open 7 Days! 10am - 4pm Admin Office: 07 5482 2000 20 Excelsior Rd, Gympie QBCC 725773