Bunnings Magazine June 2020 by Bunnings

June 2020

YOUR

FREE MAGAZIN

Warm up at home

JUST ADD PAINT FAB FURNITURE HACKS

TOOL UP!

BE SAFE WHEN YOU DIY

+ GARDEN

COSY UPDATES FOR INSIDE & OUT

EXPERT

BEAUTIFY YOUR BORDERS

COURTYARD MAKEOVER

HOW TO

GET SMART

+ BUILD A GARDEN SCREEN + ADD A SHELF - OR THREE + MAKE A TIMBER LAUNDRY RACK MAKE IT

Cute bedside cabinet

FIX IT

Refresh your benchtop

HOME ASSISTANTS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE UPDATE IT

Make over your kitchen

PLAN IT

Sort your home office

June

Contents Decorating tips

THE MAGAZINE TEAM

Boundary solutions

64 DIY

drying rack

Home office sorted Budget makeover

Top shelf tips

Dream it

Fix it

hades of Australia Introduce S outback influences to your decor 17 Border patrol Define your outdoor space with fences, walls and hedges Plan it 21 Cost-saving decorating Walletfriendly ways to style your home 22 Study break 12 expert tips for creating the perfect home office 27 Get smart assistance Control your home with the latest technology

Update it

33 Spring ahead Clever ways to lift your light and warmth quota 36 The space in between An awkward central courtyard is transformed into a welcoming relaxation retreat 40 Screen saver Hide unlovely outdoor zones using an easy-build screen kit 42 Charm on a budget Be inspired by this low-cost kitchen renovation

46 Beautify your benchtop Give those hardworking surfaces some TLC 50 Play it safe Get the lowdown on tool safety and protective gear 52 Protection detail Advice on keeping your precious tools secure Make it 55 Shelf life Find out how to install three styles of shelving storage 58 Colour change Upcycle a metal locker with pastel-pretty paint 60 Magic makeovers See inspired ways to revamp your home’s neglected items 64 Hanging out Make a retro-fabulous timber and leather laundry rack

Regulars

7 What’s happening in June News, special buys and things to do at home and in the garden 66 Hedge your bets Find the perfect shrubs for your borders

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Managing director Gerard Reynolds Executive general manager Sally Wright Chief operating officer Fiorella di Santo Head of sales Annii Hirst Head of content, Food & Homes Julie Lee Digital strategy director Karla Courtney Social strategy director Scott Drummond Finance manager Leslie To Every effort has been taken to ensure instructions for DIY projects are correct. However, before you undertake any DIY activity, please ensure that you have the appropriate skills for the task at hand, use the correct tools and that you wear the appropriate safety equipment. Any professional installations must be undertaken by a licensed tradesperson. Editorial content is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for legal or professional advice. Published by Medium Rare Content Agency Pty Ltd. ABN 83 169 879 921, Upper Ground Suite 58, 26-32 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 for Bunnings Warehouse, ABN 26 008 672 179, 16-18 Cato Street, Hawthorn East, Victoria 3123. © 2020. All rights reserved. For any queries or feedback, please call the magazine team on (03) 8831 9777 or forward to the attention of Bunnings Magazine Team, 16-18 Cato Street, Hawthorn East, Victoria 3123. Products featured in the magazine are on offer while stocks last. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Colours may vary slightly from images shown due to the printing process. Prices shown are Bunnings prices at the time of publication and some prices may vary in regional areas. Pricing is to be used as a guide only. This publication is not for sale.

Share your DIY creations with us or get inspiration for your next project. Use the hashtag #Bunningsmag CONNECT WITH US

Editor Jane Parbury Associate editor Shelley Tustin Art director Bridie Mahoney Creative services manager Katharine McKinnon Senior designer Carol Baldas Chief subeditors Catherine Sanders, Frances Pearson Senior subeditor Lorna Gow Market editor Matilda Roberts Content co-ordinator Amanda Ghalaini Contributor Christie Brewster National advertising manager Alek Jovanoski (02) 8114 8955 Victoria advertising manager Kristina Frohlich (03) 9292 2273 Business manager Rosanna Costa (03) 9292 2273 Junior account manager & sales support Claire Wischusen (03) 9292 2297 General magazine enquiries bunningsmag@bunnings.com.au (03) 8831 9777

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News What’s happening in

June

Find out what’s new, what’s trending and what’s inspiring us around the home and garden this month A word from our editor

This issue, we’re sharing some of what we’ve been doing while we’ve been staying close to home. Tilly, our talented market editor, has put her style skills to good use by giving her kitchen a sparkling new look, with little more than paint and a stack of vinyl tiles (see page 42 for the results!). The team also seized the opportunity to give some daggy furniture a much-needed and inspiring makeover (check out the results on page 60). Enjoy the issue!

Events in June

‘FightMND’ beanie, $20, I/N: 0115810 FightMND fundraiser Pick up a beanie online and in store at the trade desk from now until June 27 to support research into motor neurone disease. Save some lives by warming your noggin!

Tax time! The end of the financial year is nigh and the best way to make this year’s tax time smoother is to become a master of organisation. See page 22 for our top home office tips. Flexi Storage 185mm 2 runner wire basket in White, $7.50, I/N: 2590158

‘Tutu’ hellebore Queen’s birthday (June 8, except Qld and WA) Take advantage of the long weekend to give your garden a mid-winter makeover with some cheerful winter-blooming flowers.

Words Amanda Ghalaini, (gardening to-do list) Tammy Huynh. Photography (editor) Sue Stubbs; (Make It Yours) Jonno Rodd, styling Lucy Glade-Wright

MAKE IT YOURS... ON TV!

Printed by Ovato Print Ltd. Paper fibre is from well-managed forests and other controlled sources.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may This be ordered. product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered through a Bunnings MarketLink Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

Are you up to date with the most recent Make It Yours episode? Bunnings’ biggest home makeover project to date has made it to your TV screen. Switch on to 7TWO at 8.30pm on Fridays in June as our wonderful presenter, renovation expert Lucy Glade-Wright of Hunting for George, unveils the lounge, hallway, kids’ bedroom, home office and bathroom transformations. Missed an episode or want to revisit one of the amazing, budget-savvy room updates? All episodes are available to watch on the Bunnings website.

Tune in to our podcast Bunnings has a new green baby: Staying Grounded, a gardening podcast series hosted by horticulturalist Chloe Thomson and featuring a stellar lineup of expert guests talking all things plants, gardens and outdoors. Episode 1 features plant designer Jenna ‘Plant Mama’ Holmes, whose leafy abode featured in our May issue. Episode 2 brings Dale Vine into the studio to dissect the tools and ingredients you need to help your garden grow, while River Cottage Australia guru Paul West shares his tips and tricks to growing and cooking vegies in episode 3. If you want to learn which is the sulkiest fern or the benefits of worm wee, head to Staying Grounded by Bunnings in your podcast app, or visit bunnings.com.au/ staying-grounded, and start listening. 

Let Lucy guide you through the stunning (and achievable) renovations

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News Take it outside

Dulux Natural W hite

Inside tip Swatch this space! Want to colour match a paint? To ensure the best results, show the paint desk a sample chip no smaller than a 50 cent piece

This month in the garden Tick off this to-do list for tiptop outdoor areas. For more on what to do in the garden during June, go to bunnings.com.au/garden-diaries

Dulux Jungle Cloak

Dulux Gentle Calm Quarter Scotts ‘Osmocote’ vegetable, tomato, herb & garden beds controlled release fertiliser, $26.50/2kg, I/N: 2961309

UGLY SHED BE GONE

If not given adequate TLC, the garden shed or backyard garage can quickly become one great big eyesore, detracting from even the most luxe alfresco settings. An easy way to tie the bow on the backyard of your dreams is to refresh your shed with paint. Choose a colour based on whether you want the shed to blend in or become an eye-popping feature. Dulux colour expert Andrea Lucena-Orr says, “Greens are trending for 2020, from soft mint and sage green to earthy olive. Muted greens will add freshness to a tired exterior and they harmonise beautifully with plants and foliage.”

Make new from old by propagating hardwood cuttings. Hydrangeas, roses, wisteria or bougainvillea are great choices. Dip ends into a rooting hormone and plant up in a loose seed-raising mix.

POT OF THE MONTH Brighten up your home this gloomy winter season with a touch of colour. These ceramic pots in warm citrus shades make a cheerful feature on their own, or mix and match the different colours and sizes

Tuscan Path ‘Massa’ 30cm x 22cm large ceramic drum pots in Orange, $47.98, I/N: 0176294, and Lemon, $47.98, I/N: 0176286

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Yates Weed ‘N’ Feed weedkiller, $15.37/4L, I/N: 0121425 Keep an eye out for weeds in your lawn. Control most broad-leaf weeds with a selective herbicide that’s suitable for your lawn type.

Cyclone short D handle garden fork, $62, I/N: 3361095 Plant or move deciduous trees and roses. Use a fork to loosen the soil and lift the root ball, before moving into a spot with well-drained soil, enriched with organic matter. Bare-rooted roses are in store now. After purchasing, remove the plastic and soak the roots in a diluted seaweed solution overnight before planting. In warmer climates, enrich soil with organic matter, plant sweet potato and water well. Once shoots form, take 15-20cm cuttings, removing all but the top two leaves, and plant. Expect a harvest within four months.

Photography Dulux Australia/David Mitchener, styling Bree Leech. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings. Paint colours may vary on application.

Get the most out of your leafy vegies by feeding them with a highnitrogen fertiliser. Feed regularly or as directed, to ensure strong, healthy growth.

News

New in store and online

THE LIGHTER THINGS IN LIFE If you’re nursing an injury or find your brick-heavy power tools too much for those long and laborious DIY jobs, lighter-weight tools can make all the difference, usually doing the same job but with less bodily strain. Take a look at our pick of power tools to make light work of a heavy load

VERTICAL REVAMP

Decor looking dated? Where there’s a wall, there’s a way! Inexpensive art is an easy and colourful way to update a space, while a mirror in a beautiful frame or unusual shape can be a sculptural piece in itself and also serve to bounce light around the room and make it feel larger

Frank Hudson ‘Broadway’ 410mm x 635mm round mirror, $115*, I/N: 0185400

0.62kg

1.3kg Ryobi ‘One+’ 18V corner sander, $89.98/ skin only (battery not included), I/N: 6210596

1.05kg

XU1 ‘Blue’ 18V cordless drill driver kit, $49, I/N: 0091352

Kitchens & bathrooms

Frank Hudson ‘Higgins’ 600mm x 900mm antique arch mirror in Silver, $375*, I/N: 0185436

1.9kg

Ozito ‘Home’ 12V reciprocating saw, $39.99/skin only, I/N: 0048816

If your budget is tight but your kitchen needs a revamp, changing the cabinet handles is a relatively easy, inexpensive and high-impact fix Mix your metals, but not too much. If you’ve got chrome taps and black metal pendant lights, don’t choose Lane curved square brass door hardware. Two knob in Brass, $7.70, different metals are enough. I/N: 0135445 Be practical. Hardwearing and wipeable metals are best for kitchens.

Look at the existing screw holes. Choose hardware that fits into these holes or at least covers them, unless you’re planning on repainting the door and drawer fronts. If painting, fill and sand the holes, paint the fronts and then install the new hardware.

Lane timber/brass Hafele 176mm x 36mm Lane 96mm square round knob, $4.88, cabinet handle in Matt round handle in Gun I/N: 0135447 Black, $18, I/N: 0165723 Metal, $5.75, I/N: 0135468 Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

4 56 3

Boyle ‘Perching Pelican’ 82cm x 62cm framed wall art, $139*, I/N: 0178343

Makita ‘Max’ 12V cordless circular saw, $149/skin only, I/N: 6240355

EASY UPDATES: BUDGET KITCHEN

Cooper & Co. ‘Abstract’ 102cm x 143cm foil canvas framed wall art in Blue & Gold, $149.95*, I/N: 0177008

Boyle ‘Rainforest Depths’ 82cm x 82cm framed wall art, $159*, I/N: 0178133

Frank Hudson ‘Bayswater’ 610mm x 700mm round mirror in Gold, $150*, I/N: 0185397

Boyle ‘Tropicana’ 102cm x 72cm wood print framed wall art, $238*, I/N: 0178345

This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered through a Bunnings MarketLink Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

DID YOU KNOW?

Each Bunnings product has its own item number (I/N) which is the same online (bunnings.com.au) as the shelf label. For faster shopping in store, jot down the I/N and aisle location when browsing online. ◆ bunnings |

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2400 x 600mm

1800 x 450mm

Fence Extensions

$49.98

Classic Lattice

$89.94

Fence Extension

legs sold separately

$79.94

legs sold separately

RIVERBANK

FERNS

ITEM:0029258

ITEM:0029259

$49.98

COOLABAH

L AT T I C E

ITEM:0029255

ITEM:0029261

$89.94

RAINFOREST

$79.94

SAHARA

ITEM:0029260

ITEM:0029254

$89.94

M AT R I X D Ă&#x2030; C O R P R O D U C T S - T H E F I R S T C H O I C E F O R P R I VA C Y A N D S T Y L E I N Y O U R H O M E A N D G A R D E N - Made in Australia from 100% recycled plastic

- Will not rot, rust or need painting

- Powder Coated Galvanised steel legs sold separately, (2 fasteners in each leg to attach leg to panel)

- Does not contain harmful chemicals

- 15 year structural warranty

- Resistant to mould and insects

Dream it

Plan a colour scheme

SHADES

Morning

Salute the sun with the colours of a dawn sky

6 4 2 13

OF 7

9 10

Compiled by Tilly Roberts. Words Shelley Tustin. Paint colours may vary on application

AUSTRALIA

Fall in love with Australia’s colourscape, from the scorched terracotta tones of sunburnt sand to the muted olive greens of fields at dusk

Hallway

1 Corinthian Doors ‘British Brace’ 2150mm x 1000mm x 35mm internal barn door, $499, I/N: 0103695 (hardware sold separately). 2 Home Design ‘Romanza’ floor lamp, $99, I/N: 0123725. 3 Superfresco Easy ‘Aura’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Pink, $71.99, I/N: 0106458. 4 Home Design 60cm round hanging mirror in White, $72, I/N: 1730212. 5 Taubmans Amethyst Stone paint. 6 Adoored hook board with 6 satin chrome J hooks in White, $36.80, I/N: 3962212. 7 Eden 18cm low glass bowl planter, $11.98, I/N: 0090797. 8 Senso ‘Lifestyle’ 3m wide sheet vinyl flooring in Nordic White, $63.90/m, I/N: 6610225. 9 Vorsen ‘Hugo’ armchair in Blue, $569*, I/N: 0184941. 10 Frank Hudson ‘Shell’ throw in Blush, $79.99*, I/N: 0153636. 11 Frank Hudson ‘Bentley’ 1200mm x 420m x 800mm console table, $619.99*, I/N: 0153644. 12 Cooper & Co ‘Abstract Leaf’ framed canvas wall art, $119.95*, I/N: 0174788. 13 Cooper & Co ‘Yak’ 140cm x 100cm framed canvas wall art, $149.95*, I/N: 0154957. Paint colours (from top): Taubmans Ego Moon, Grape Ice, Humble Mauve, Sterling Silver, Blueberry Muffin. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.  This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered through a Bunnings MarketLink Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

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The relaxing lounge room is the perfect place for a calming rusty palette

anging from the dusty ochre tones of our iconic ‘golden soil’ to the ethereal pastels of a rising dawn over the ocean, Australia’s rich tapestry of hues offers ample inspiration for a room makeover. We’ve drawn on our favourite Australian landscapes to craft a palette of true blue (and red, green and

brown) hues that you’ll love to live in every day. While colour is the starting point, an Australian-inspired interior also leans on layers of texture for a relaxed, informal feel. Think raw timbers, rattan, terracotta, smooth or matte surfaces (not high shine), plush velvet and patterned wallpapers. 1

Midday

Look to the outback and be inspired by desert haze, red earth and the rustic aesthetic of country living

6 12 13 7 15

14 8

Lounge room

1 Taubmans Fire Ball paint. 2 Graham & Brown ‘Tranquil’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Copper, $109, I/N: 1662915. 3 Verve Design ‘Pallida’ bamboo pendant light, $149, I/N: 0067531 (globe sold separately). 4 Windoware 2230mm x 1200mm multi blockout eyelet curtain in Doeskin, $29, I/N: 0019258. 5 Devil’s ivy plant. 6 Scheurich ‘Corteza’ 22cm x 20cm ceramic pot in Cream, $27.80, I/N: 0018967. 7 Verve Design ‘Jac’ table lamp, $45, I/N: 0123746 (globe sold separately). 8 Fiddle leaf fig plant. 9 Northcote Pottery 25cm Italian terracotta cylinder pot in Greige, $26.80, I/N: 0044332. 10 Bayliss ‘Lema’ 290cm x 200cm rug, $333, I/N: 6670904. 11 Smart Flooring ‘Medina Cabana’ 12mm laminate flooring, $64.60/1.77sqm, I/N: 6690368. 12 Frank Hudson ‘Bentley’ 1644mm x 450mm x 700mm sideboard, $2,049.99*, I/N: 0153854. bunnings.com.au |

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Dream it

16 17

10 11 13 Sarantino single-seater linen sofa bed in Brown, $279*, I/N: 0175478. 14 Bo Living ‘Riga’ 400mm x 500mm x 400mm side/lamp table in Oak, $99*, I/N: 0152416. 15 Salt & Pepper ‘Atelier No.8’ candle, $19.95*/550g, I/N: 0175551. 16 Decor Villa ‘Bermuda’ 4 seater sofa, $1,699*, I/N: 0186955. 17 Frank Hudson ‘Madelene’ 500mm x 300mm stonewash cushion in Burnt Orange, $69.99*, I/N: 0153630. 18 Frank Hudson reversible throw in Burnt Orange, $79.99*, I/N: 0153564. Paint colours (from left): Taubmans Earth Rose, Bisque Fire, Fire Ball, Nutmeg, Allamanda and Equestrian Stride. All plants sold separately. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.  This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered through a Bunnings MarketLink Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

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Dream it

Dine outdoors surrounded by timber, rattan and natural green hues

Afternoon

Relax among the soothing hues of a garden at dusk

6 14

Outdoor

1 Wall painted in Porter’s Paints Eggshell Finish paint in Popcorn. 2 Porter’s Paints Bayleaf paint. 3 Porter’s Paints Sundance paint. 4 Verve Design ‘Bristol’ farm wall light, $43, I/N: 4371473 (globe sold separately). 5 Chapala Chimeneas large clay pizza oven, $599, I/N: 3180436. 6 Chapala Chimeneas 800mm x 800mm clay pizza oven stand, $269, I/N: 3180437. 7 ‘Bambalina’ olive. 8 Northcote Pottery 50cm terracotta egg-shaped pot, $46.10, I/N: 0044460. 9 Hartman ‘Cairns’ wicker dining chair, $167, I/N: 0128168. 10 Hartman ‘Polaris’ 110cm round dining table, $449, I/N: 3192379. 11 Eden 8cm glass bowl planter, $3.98, I/N: 0090794. 12 Marquee rattan wicker chair, $39, I/N: 0098913. 13 Synthetic grass 1m x 3m x 18mm turf mat, $39, I/N: 0083424. 14 Bodum ‘Pavina’ 450ml double wall glasses, $31.95/pack of 2*, I/N: 0157052. 15 Chef Inox stainless steel wine bucket, $19.95*, I/N: 0155875. 16 Frank Hudson ‘Taylor’s’ cubic embossed Sherpa throw in Ochre, $69.99*, I/N: 0153516. Paint colours (from top): Porter’s Paints Bayleaf, Sundance and Explorer Blue. Plant sold separately. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. ◆ bunnings.com.au |

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Treats

or medical treatments. We cover both. With Coles Pet Insurance, you can focus on your furry friend and not your wallet. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because we pay your approved scheduled procedures directly to the vet, you just pay the excess. Plus, get one month free when you take out a policy by 31 July.* Search Coles Pet Insurance.

Good things. Great value.

Pet Insurance

*Terms and conditions, limits, exclusions and waiting periods apply. The One Month Free offer is available to customers who purchase a new Coles Pet Insurance policy between 28 April and 31 July 2020 (Offer Period) and keep the policy in force for at least the 21 day cooling off period. The One Month Free Offer will be applied proportionally as a discount across all first year premium payments only. Only customers that maintain their Coles Pet Insurance Policy will receive the full benefit of the Offer. The discount is applied during the quote process once the promotional code has been entered. For full terms and conditions see coles.com.au/pet-insurance. Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty Ltd (Coles) is an authorised representative of the issuer, Guild Insurance Limited (ABN 55 004 538 863, AFSL 233791) and receives a commission for each policy sold and renewed. Any advice is of a general nature and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any advice you should consider its appropriateness. You should read the Product Disclosure Statement before deciding whether to acquire an insurance policy.

Dream it

Border patrol

Walls, fences and hedges

Define your outdoor space with a boundary feature that suits your style. Read on for the material options

Words Tammy Huynh. Photography James Hardie. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings. Paint colours may vary on application.

ith not much going on in the garden, winter is a good time to start working on hardscape elements in the backyard. While walls and fences often fade into the background, they can play a vital part in framing your garden,

helping to unify and highlight your landscape as well as defining boundaries and keeping unwanted visitors out. It’s important that they are functional, but who says they can’t be decorative, too? Here are some of the most popular options.

Timber fencing “The advantage of timber is that it’s versatile and adaptable to various home and garden styles,” says landscape designer Claudia Crawley of Grindstone Landscapes (grindstonelandscapes.com). “There are many style options available, such as lapped and capped, timber battens or pickets, and they can all be easily painted in any colour, although I always recommend painting a dark colour – try Dulux Monument or Namadji – as it reduces the visible impact of the fence and offsets plants very well.” Timber does have a shorter life span (15-30 years) than most other materials, but with the right know-how, it’s simple to replace.  Regular maintenance and ensuring there is adequate drainage will maximise the life span of timber fences bunnings |

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Colorbond fencing panels form a sleek, contemporary backdrop

Watch it!

Check out our handy guide: bunnings.com.au/how-toinstall-a-lattice-fence

Tuscan Path ‘Geometric’ 1800mm x 900mm screen panel in Rust, $99, I/N: 3042457

Steel panels Durable, lightweight and available in a range of colours, Colorbond is the go-to choice in many modern homes. It’s best installed by professionals but can be a straightforward job for a handy DIYer. “Once it’s installed, it’s easy to maintain, is incredibly long lasting and, unlike other materials, it’s termite resistant,” says Claudia Crawley. Colorbond fencing can be prone to dents, however, depending on the extent of the damage, they can be pulled out or individual sheets can easily be replaced. “Aluminium railings can create a sense of depth in a space that may be confined, whereas blocks or timber would enclose it” Adam Rassam Protector Aluminium

If you’re looking to plant a privacy hedge or screen, try these fast-growing options

Clumping bamboos

Tough, dense-growing bamboos that are non-invasive. Grow to 6-8m

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Chinese star jasmine

Photinia ‘Red Robin’

Pittosporum ‘Screen Master’

Heavenly scented star-shaped white flowers cover the vines of this climber in spring. Train along the top of a fence or over a lattice. Climber

A rapid grower with gorgeous crimson-red new growth contrasting against lush green leaves. Grows to 2m

Vigorous, bushy and upright hedge with variegated silver-grey foliage. Given the right conditions, it can grow up to 1m annually. Grows to 5-6m

bunnings

Photography (top left) COLORBOND® steel. COLORBOND® is a registered trade mark of BlueScope Steel Limited; (below left) Anna Robinson; (above) Brigid Arnott, styling Stephanie Powell, styling assistant Dominique Boersma; (Photinia and Japanese box) Getty Images.

FAST AND FURIOUS

Aluminium railings Adam Rassam, group sales manager of Protector Aluminium, says, “Aluminium is incredibly versatile. It’s available in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit tricky corners,

spaces or levels, and can be easily welded into the desired shape. Plus, it can be used for security, decorative and safety purposes, like pool and balustrade fencing.” Since aluminium fencing isn’t solid it won’t completely block out views, and lets light and airflow through. Installing aluminium is easier than most traditional fencing options and a little TLC with a soft brush and mild detergent will prolong the life of your fence.

Dream it Brick & block walls “The great thing about brick walls is that they can withstand the elements, absorb and radiate heat (so they can be a very high-performing part of passive solar design) and are available in a wide range of earthy natural tones and textures,” says urban horticultural consultant Matt Gerakios at Phyton Australia (phytonaustralia.com.au). “Masonry block walls provide many design options from solid, genuine privacy walls

through to block piers that can be used with other fencing materials like glass or aluminium,” says Karl Wood, marketing manager at Adbri Masonry. “Besser block walls also provide options in finishing – they can be left exposed, painted in a colour that suits your home, or rendered and painted for a modern look.” The only downside, says Matt, is “premium cost for materials and construction, the extensive foundation work involved and, once placed, they can be very difficult to modify or remove.”

Boundary buys 1 2

Solid and durable, brick walls can be drilled for installing mesh or trellis to host climbing plants, while recycled bricks have beautiful rustic appeal

Hedging plants Unlike solid materials, hedges are alive and, as such, there is an almost endless range of choices available to suit your needs, says Matt Gerakios. “There are varying colours, textures, shapes and sizes, plus seasonal colours are possible with many of the popular hedging species,” he explains. “But there is a bit of groundwork that needs to be done to get them growing.”

There’s also ongoing maintenance involved, as you will need to water, feed and trim your plants regularly, and keep an eye out for pests and diseases, but hedges suit the look of most homes and you’ll often find they will help cool the air around your building, too. “It can take a little bit of time for them to establish and to get to the height you want, but the wait is worth it,” adds Matt. ◆

3 4

5 1 Colorbond 1.79m steel double sided fencing infill sheet in Jasper, $18.90, I/N: 0911051. 2 150mm x 12mm x 1.8m treated pine fence paling, $1.94, I/N: 0120256. 3 Protector Aluminium ‘Ulti-M8’ 2450mm x 1200mm double top rail all up fence panel in Deep Ocean, $206, I/N: 0039251. 4 Adbri Masonry ‘Versawall’ 400mm x 200mm x 215mm standard block in Charcoal. 5 Matrix ‘Ferns’ 1800mm x 450mm fence extension in Charcoal, $49.98, I/N: 0029259. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

For more beautiful hedging plant ideas, turn to page 66

Lilly pilly

Japanese box

Magnolia ‘Little Gem’

Bottle brush

A common hedging plant, with shiny green leaves that are blushed pink or red when new. Grows to 3-5m

Glossy green leaves and dense foliage makes this hedge great for screening and formal gardens. Grows to 2m

Large, handsome, glossy green foliage with golden-russet undersides. Stunning and fragrant creamy-white blooms cover the plant in spring. Grows to 4m

Much loved for its flamboyant red-pink flowers and birdattracting qualities, this native makes a relaxed hedge. Grows to 1-3m depending on the cultivar

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Plan it Cost-effective interiors

Cost-saving decorating

A pretty hue of wall paint – in this case Dulux Pinkham – and a flamboyant rug can transform a room

Tip Take care when removing old paint as it could contain traces of lead. For more information, visit bunnings.com.au/ health-and-safety

Create stylish spaces on a shoestring – we’ve rounded up expert tips to stretch your decorating dollars

Words Kylie Jackes. Photography Dulux Australia/Lisa Cohen, styling Bree Leech and Heather Nette King. Paint colours may vary on application. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

ven on a tight budget it’s possible to create a look you love – the trick is to plan carefully, shop smart and bring a little ingenuity to the table. “Great interiors are often inspired by a limited budget, as having less to spend encourages you to hone your style and be more creative,” says Zoe Gilpin of The DIY Decorator (thediydecorator. net). Here’s how to get started. Budgeting and planning Set a realistic budget for your project, based on the scope of work and how much you feel comfortable spending. Write a list of must-haves and must-dos, with a second wish list for items you’d like but aren’t crucial – this will help prioritise where the money should be spent. “As a general rule, spend the bulk of your budget on larger items such as hard finishes and furniture, which need to last,” says Zoe. Making a moodboard is beneficial, as it helps develop your vision and plan how pieces will work together to achieve your desired look. “To gauge costs, browse retail websites and get quotes from trades you may need, like an electrician, plasterer or tiler,” suggests Zoe. The Special Orders team can also connect you with tradies, to do specific jobs at a fixed price. Before starting any project you should also consider any health and safety risks and

make sure you get professional advice where needed. Wallet-friendly updates Rather than change an entire room, limit your scheme to one statement decorating item, such as a feature wall, an eyecatching rug or a focal pendant. Refreshing smaller elements can also help deliver a new look. For example, switch dated doorknobs with contemporary chrome or matt black handles, or update window dressings with a roller-blind paired with sheer curtains. Another trick is to distract the eye with new accessories, such as a table lamp or two, or an array of plants in attractive pots. DIY versus delegating Take advantage of reliable ‘how to’ videos and look for products designed with DIYers in mind. For a simple and cost-effective refresh, try paint. “White Knight has a range of specialist products you can use to paint existing laminate cupboards, laminate benchtops, tiles and even appliances to give your kitchen, bathroom or laundry a fresh look,” explains Cherie Barber of Renovating for Profit (renovatingforprofit.com.au). All electrical, plumbing and waterproofing jobs do need to be completed by a licensed professional to meet building regulations. “For a quality result, I also recommend leaving tiling, rendering and

PRO TIP Paint is your friend if you’re decorating with an eye on costs. There are formulations available now to cover just about any surface, from walls and floors to kitchen cabinets and tiles laying floating floors to licensed tradies,” adds Cherie. However, you can save by doing tasks such as clean-up and rubbish removal yourself. Get the look for less Luxe material lookalikes closely resemble the real thing but at a fraction of the cost. Consider laminate, or faux finishes that could pass for marble or stone, and opt for floating timber flooring over solid timber. Do you need new furniture, or can you can extend the life of pieces with a coat of paint or varnish? Sanding and refinishing a timber table could give it a new look. Also check online for hacks to turn budget buys into bespoke pieces.

If your budget won’t cover the cost of floor-to-ceiling wallpaper, Zoe suggests achieving a similar effect with a painted feature wall and decals. Another option is to wallpaper just the bottom half of a wall, then paint the top half and add a timber dado rail between. ¿

Watch it! Update your kitchen with paint: bunnings.com.au/how-to-paintlaminate-kitchen-cabinets

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bunnings | bunnings.com.au

Plan it Create a home office

Study break

With home being the new workplace for many of us, we’re spending more hours in the home office – so it helps if it’s a space where we can feel productive and organised

Define your workspace

A dedicated zone is the first step to an organised home office. Find an area to house a desk, one that has good lighting and some wall space, says Jessica Haslem at Flexi Storage. “Not all of us have the benefit of a room dedicated to an office. However there may be areas that can be turned into an office, such as a nook under the staircase, or even a wardrobe that you can place a desk inside,” she suggests.

Sort, purge and donate Take on the decluttering process section by section, says organisation expert Steph Pase (justanothermummy blog.com). “Having piles for donation and rubbish is super important to make sure you clear away the clutter,” she says. “Just remember when decluttering, it’s going to look worse before it gets better, but keep going through until the end!”

Process paperwork You’re now down to the essentials, but still the paper mountain remains! Create a paper tray ‘processing station’ with documents divided into actions – for example ‘to pay’, ‘to do’, ‘to file’ and so on.

File, file and file again Processed documents can be placed in a colour-coded set-up, alphabetical folders or suspension files in a drawer or cabinet. “This really depends on the individual, but colour coding can definitely help,” says professional organiser Natalie Jane (beorganised.co.nz). “I prefer to use suspension files in a drawer as you can see your papers at a glance.”

The Ezy Storage ‘Brickor’ range of neutral-hued baskets suits any decor scheme and offers a variety of stackable sizes

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Label it

Invest in decent labelling for your new boxes, files and cubby systems. Having everything properly identified in your home office will help make things easier to find, and ultimately save you time. Appetito blank labels, $4.95*/ pack of 45, I/N: 0158305 This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered through a Bunnings MarketLink Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories.*Delivery charges may apply.

Words Caroline Botting. Photography (top) Porter’s Paints; (opposite, top) Larnie Nicolson, styling Sam van Kan; (right) Anna Robinson, styling Keira Rumble. Paint colours may vary on application.

hether your home office is a room, a nook under the stairs or a converted closet, now’s the time to whip it into shape. Follow these expert tips for creating an area that’s visually appealing, uncluttered, and where you can be your most efficient self.

Create a tranquil study space with a soothing colour – the wall of this work zone is painted with Porter’s Paints Eggshell finish in Popcorn

23 For a similar memory board, try Rapid Mesh 600mm x 900mm 50mm x 50mm wire mesh panel, $16.99, I/N: 0082426. Verve Design ‘Noah’ table lamp, $49, I/N: 0123736. Marquee ‘Rhombus’ chair in White, $39, I/N: 0097858. All other products, stylist’s own.

Box the bulk

Books, magazines, cords or devices can be sorted in wire or seagrass baskets, or cubby holes. “Every item needs a home and like items should be stored together,” says Natalie. Try a system like Flexi Storage’s ‘Clever Cubes’, which can be combined with any configuration of drawers and baskets to create neat storage for all sorts of items. Flexi Storage 600mm x 240mm x 38mm floating shelf in Oak, $29, I/N: 2583899, and ‘Clever Cube’ 330mm x 330mm x 360mm insert in Water Hyacinth, $15, I/N: 2582736. Mercator ‘Moby’ table lamp, $83.15, I/N: 0019802.

Get personal Keeping your desk well organised doesn’t mean you can’t inject some personality. Attractive lighting, a few family snaps and potted plants can all enhance your work environment without adding to the clutter. In fact studies have shown that looking at plants can actually help improve your concentration! 

Ezy Storage ‘Solutions+’ medium insert tray, $6.99, I/N: 0171472

Do sweat the small stuff

Stationery has a habit of building up and spreading out everywhere. Use a variety of containers, or even a tray broken into compartments like a cutlery tray, to organise office supplies including paperclips, pens, staplers, scissors and sticky notes. House only the necessary supplies on your desk, with extras tucked away in your desk drawer.

1 Devil’s ivy plant. 2 Artiss melamine computer desk in Timber and White, $222.95*, I/N: 0170797. 3 Boyle 3m jute twine with 54 mini wood pegs, $6.17, I/N: 0037723. 4 Brilliant ‘Lloyd’ flexi desk lamp in Black, $29.98, I/N: 0137640. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings |

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Plan it Masonite 1220mm x 915mm x 4.8mm pegboard, $31, I/N: 0243224, painted in Dulux Vivid White paint, $5.50/100ml, I/N: 1420596. Zenith zinc plated assorted pegboard hooks kit, $15.73/pack of 47, I/N: 3966089. Verve Design ‘Hector’ desk lamp in Chrome, $56, I/N: 4371345. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Hit full capacity

Your home office is sorted, but if your files and cubbies are now at capacity, Steph Pase suggests thinking outside the box. “Can some of the paper be scanned and kept digitally? Can you get all your bills sent via email? Go through any old archives and decide if you really need to keep them or not,” she suggests. Archived documents can be stored elsewhere – in the garage, for example, or in plastic boxes under your bed. Ezy Storage ‘Solutions+’ 38L underbed storage container, $19.96, I/N: 0171468

Cope with cables Wires that lie on or around our desks are a reality in most workspaces. Keep them tidy and out of the way with clips or cable straps. To help you figure out what goes where in a spaghetti snarl of cables, label each cord. Stow cables that you’re not using in drawers – wind them neatly and label them to save yourself identity hassles later. Cobra cable straps, $6.30/ pack of 5, I/N: 4430515

Flexi Storage 600mm x 240mm x 38mm floating shelf in White Gloss, $31, I/N: 2580892

At the end of each workday, take some time to put things away. File those papers, remove the extra stationery and leave the area looking organised. “By having a decluttered office area, it allows the mind to be clear and focused,” says Jessica Haslem. “It’s been identified that there is a positive psychology when it comes to organisation; keeping things clean and organised is good for you.”

Use all real estate Take advantage of every nook and cranny. “When it comes to using your space creatively, there is always one section people forget to utilise: the walls,” says Steph. “Buying removable hooks or floating shelves will free up so much more space.” Create a pegboard or corkboard, put up shelves, and use hooks for calendars. Making a memory board for important notes is as easy as simply buying a mesh panel and some wooden pegs. ◆

Watch it! Find out how to get creative with a study pegboard: bunnings. com.au/hang-andstyle-a-pegboard

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Photography (top) Cath Muscat, styling Tilly Roberts

Make new habits

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Security detail With modern security camera technology, you can ensure the safety of your home and family from wherever you are

lot has changed about the way we live, but the instinct to protect the people and things we care about has stayed the same. Modern technology has made it so much easier to keep your home, family and business safe.

UNPLUGGED Taking your home’s security into your own hands has never been easier. New technology means installing security cameras could be a weekend job for a DIYer. Not only do these modern cameras connect wirelessly to your wi-fi router, but they can also be installed without an electrician – look for Swann’s ‘plug and play’ style systems that plug into a power socket, or completely wire-free models that run on a rechargeable battery.

ON WATCH Having a personal security detail might be beyond the

reach of most mere mortals, but your smart security system can offer virtually the same service. Swann’s True Detect senses heat and movement, distinguishing people, animals and cars from false triggers like tree branches or rain. The latest cameras even offer facial recognition for up to 10 people, alerting you when a friend or family member is at the door. With two-way talk, you can chat to the delivery person remotely, scare off intruders by sounding a siren or even use the spotlight camera to shine a light bright enough to scare off anyone who’s up to no good.

EAGLE EYE Suspect someone is lurking outside your home? 1080p full HD video means grainy footage is a thing of the past. Instead, you can expect to see faces, licence plates and crucial details,

like whether your visitor is carrying a parcel for delivery – or a crowbar for mischief! Infrared night vision is enhanced by the addition of a bright spotlight that gives you the full picture of what’s happening in and around your home, even after dark.

1 Swann 1080p spotlight outdoor wi-fi security camera, $188, I/N: 0138781

2 Swann 1080p indoor wi-fi security camera, $116, I/N: 0138782

INTERNAL AFFAIRS It’s not just external security that you want covered. Indoor security cameras can be positioned around your home to help you keep an eye on the ones you love. An indoor security camera can be used to watch over your pets while you’re at work, or even be installed in an elderly relative’s home, so you can make sure they’re safe. Smart sound alerts will send through a notification when the camera detects a sudden noise, like the sound of a breaking window or someone falling over, while two-way talk lets you check in to make sure they’re okay.

3 Swann 1080p tracker camera with 32GB included, $149, I/N: 0188668

4 Swann 1080p wire-free battery camera, $239, I/N: 0188665

Learn more at swann.com

Plan it Smart home helpers

Get smart assistance

Words Geoff Quattromani. Photography Gap Interiors/Bureaux

Smartphone crowded with apps? A smart home assistant clears the clutter and gives you new control over your home

ne of the fastest growing and most useful trends in technology is the smart home assistant. What started as a device you could ask questions about the weather has turned into a means of controlling our appliances, lighting and even our watering systems. All corners of the home can be modified to be smart, but many of us are still yet to get started. Here’s what you need to know. What it is In essence, a smart home assistant is a tool that makes your smart home ‘smarter’, bringing all your high-tech gadgets together and making them easier and more intuitive to control. This might be a single app, like Grid Connect, that brings

all the devices under one-touch control, or a voice assistant that obeys your every vocal command. These, like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, are accessed through a smart home hub (such as Google Nest or Amazon Echo), a little device that sits on the kitchen bench or in the living room – or one in every room – waiting to be ‘woken’ and called to work. “When humans first designed PRO TIP Over time, your smart home assistant will learn more about you – your preferences and your routines. It will offer suggestions for things to do, places to visit, or music to listen to

computers, the end goal was to be able to speak to them and hear an intelligent response,” says Megan Smith, PR manager for devices and Alexa at Amazon. “Mice and keyboards were a stepping stone to this dream, but technologies like Alexa are getting us closer to making this a reality.” Smart home hubs come in all shapes and sizes. Small speakers from Google or Amazon can listen and respond, while others feature displays that can listen, respond and even show content. A smart display, for example, allows you to adjust requests from “What is the weather today?” to “Show me the weather forecast for this week”. The displays can also be used to show you things such as who is at the front door, walk you through a cooking recipe and play videos.  bunnings |

bunnings | bunnings.com.au

Read it! Amazon ‘Echo Plus’ 2nd Gen smart home hub in Charcoal, I/N: 0116372

Find out more: bunnings.com.au/ smart-hub-everythingyou-need-to-know

Home hubs 1

3 4

Google Nest hub in Charcoal, I/N: 0110619. Google Nest Mini in Rock Candy, I/N 0172946

1 Amazon ‘Echo Show’ 2nd Gen smart home hub in Charcoal, I/N: 0116375. 2 Google Nest Mini in Anthracite, I/N: 0172947. 3 Amazon ‘Echo Dot’ 3rd Gen smart speaker with Alexa in Charcoal, I/N: 0116369. 4 Arlec smart home hub with Grid Connect, $29.98, I/N: 0148571. 5 Amazon ‘Echo Show 5’ smart home hub with Alexa in Charcoal, I/N: 0123369. 6 Google ‘Home’, I/N: 0110618. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

How does it work? Setting up a smart home hub is easy and usually all managed through an app on your smartphone. Once you’ve followed the set-up process of your smart home assistant, begin your experience with basic questions, things you might normally type into Google when you have a debate with friends. Build the habit of talking to your smart hub instead of looking at your phone or computer to find an answer. You’ll be surprised how much faster it is. A smart assistant can also use the speakers to play your favourite music through Spotify, Apple Music, listen to podcasts or stream radio stations from anywhere in the world.

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Make your home more secure with smart locks and doorbells

Plan it

TP-Link smart wi-fi wall plug with energy monitoring in White, $39, I/N: 0090977

Smart plugs 2

Photography (centre) Cath Muscat, styling Tilly Roberts Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Remote notes Smart plugs can be used on power points to help control the power to that device. Using your voice or smartphone anywhere in the world, you can check on the home remotely and even turn off that forgotten iron! Security cameras and doorbells can also integrate with your smart home. When someone rings the doorbell they will appear on your Google or Amazon display and your smartphone. This is handy when you’re not at home and a courier or an unexpected visitor arrives – you could have a two-way conversation with them via your smartphone or smart assistant. Indoor cameras work the same way, for example allowing you to see the kids arrive home. Julia Davis, head of devices and services marketing at Google Australia, says, “Being able to control these devices with your voice or from your mobile phone, whenever you want, wherever you are, gives you a helping hand so you can get on with all the other important things in your life, like spending time with loved ones.” Sensors can also be added. A motion sensor could trigger a light to turn on, while a contact sensor could advise you when you’ve left a window or door ajar.

1 TP-Link smart wi-fi wall plug in White and Grey, $34, I/N: 0090975. 2 Arlec 5 outlet smart powerboard with Grid Connect, $39.98, I/N: 0074830. 3 Deta smart rewireable plug with Grid Connect, $19.98, I/N: 0098810. 4 Arlec smart plug-in socket with Grid Connect, $17.50, I/N: 0135440. 5 D-Link mini wi-fi smart plug, $37.62, I/N: 0127637. 6 Arlec 10m smart extension lead with Grid Connect, $35, I/N: 0098824.

Security 3 1

5 4

1 Yale Apple smart deadbolt in Satin Chrome, $399, I/N: 0103213. 2 Arlo ‘Ultra’ magnetic wall mounts, $69/pack of 2, I/N: 0154021. 3 Swann 1080p indoor wi-fi security camera, $116, I/N: 0138782. 4 Ring indoor camera in White, $99, I/N: 0173104. 5 Orion smart wireless video doorbell with Grid Connect, $99, I/N: 0121521. 6 Lockly mortice smart deadbolt and latch in Satin Nickel, $449, I/N: 0098023. 7 Ring ‘Stick Up Cam Battery’ 3rd Generation security camera, $179, I/N: 0173106.

Smart Home Products 90cm x 210cm motorised roller blind in White, $189, I/N: 0135999

Setting the scene By playing with settings, you can set up your home to activate a ‘scene’, triggered by a tap on your smartphone (through Grid Connect) or with a single voice command (to Google Assistant or Alexa). A “good morning” greeting might prompt lights to switch on, blinds to rise, the kettle to boil and your voice assistant to advise the latest headlines. Or use your smart assistant to ‘look after’ your home while you’re away – tap your smartphone as you leave to have appliances and lights switched off and the security system armed. With a minimum of set up, your home can take multiple tasks off your daily to-do list.  bunnings |

bunnings | bunnings.com.au

Plan it

Ecovacs ‘DEEBOT-600’ floor cleaning robot, $399, I/N: 0079416

LIFX ‘Mini Day & Dusk’ 800 lumens A60 E27 smart light bulbs, $85.99/pack of 2 I/N: 0163186

Lighting the way Having mastered the basics, you can use your smart assistant to control many of the practical functions around your home, such as your lighting. Smart bulbs can plug into your existing lights and can connect to your voice assistant via wi-fi or with a compatible hub. Amazon’s Echo, for example, can work with Philips Hue, Sengled Smart wi-fi LED and LIFX Color, among others. Voice commands are especially handy when you have your hands full, or if you’ve just arrived home at night and need the lights on quickly.

Lighting

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Appliances of science The newest appliances – fridges, ovens, washing machines, vacuum cleaners – are smart home compatible. While you finish cooking, you could ask your voice assistant to send the vacuum to clean the kitchen floors, and the vacuum will get to work. These aren’t future products, these are available today. Further into 2020 and beyond, our entire kitchen will start to connect to the smart home. The fridge will know what is inside, will recommend recipes and even command the oven to start preheating. Your washing machine will detect the fabrics, the weight and dispense its own detergent based on those factors, then it will notify your smartphone when it’s finished. By starting with the smart home today, you’ll be well prepared to integrate your white goods when the time comes.

1 Philips Hue ‘Bridge’ lighting system, $88.89, I/N: 4320764. 2 LIFX ‘Mini’ 800 lumens A60 E27 colour smart light bulb, $68, I/N: 0046858. 3 Philips Hue ‘Go’ smart LED portable light, $149, I/N: 4420603. 4 Verve Design 36W smart LED ceiling light with Grid Connect, $65.90, I/N: 0119807. 5 Arlec smart up and down LED wall light with Grid Connect, $69.90, I/N: 0119823. 6 Philips Hue ‘Impress’ smart exterior pedestal bollard, $350, I/N: 0137557. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. ◆

ADVERTISING FEATURE

In control Voice control your smart home and discover the magic of Amazon Alexa

he modern smart home just keeps getting smarter – whether it’s playing music, answering questions, finding recipes, reading the news, checking the weather, setting alarms, controlling compatible smart home devices and more. All you have to do is ask Alexa. Welcome to a world made for your voice.

Amazon ‘Echo Show 5’ compact smart display with Alexa in Charcoal, I/N: 0123369

ECHO SHOW 5

With a compact 5.5-inch screen, the Echo Show 5 gives you all the functionality you love, in a compact size that fits neatly into the busiest spaces of your home. Harnessing the power of visuals to help manage your day at a glance, you can ask Alexa to set a reminder, create routines and alarms to start your day, check weather and traffic reports, and personalise by choosing a favourite clock face or photo.

ECHO PLUS

With premium speakers controlled by your voice, the Echo Plus lets you play your favourite tracks with one command – but that’s only scratching the surface. A built-in Zigbee hub means connecting all the compatible smart home devices in your home is simple – just ask Alexa to discover your smart lights, plugs, locks, TV and more, and the Echo Plus will do all the hard work for you. Amazon ‘Echo Plus’ 2nd generation premium sound with built-in smart home hub in Charcoal, I/N: 0116372

Amazon ‘Echo Show 8’ HD 8” smart display with Alexa in Charcoal, I/N: 0183390

ECHO SHOW 8

ECHO DOT Small but mighty, the Echo Dot is Amazon’s most popular smart speaker, and the perfect device for those looking to try voice control for the first time. It’s also a great little add-on if you already have one of the other Echo products – pop an Echo Dot at the other end of the house so you’re always in voice range. Use it as an intercom to call the family to dinner! Amazon ‘Echo Dot’ 3rd generation smart speaker with Alexa in Charcoal, I/N: 0116369

The screen says it all – not only does the Echo Show 8 give you voice control over all your compatible smart home devices, but with an 8-inch HD smart display, Alexa can now show you more. Watch movies, stream sports or the news, find and follow your favourite recipes, view compatible security cameras and control lights, and stay connected with friends and family with video calling and messaging.

ALEXA HAS SKILLS

Alexa has thousands of skills and counting. Skills are like apps that allow you to personalise your Alexa experience, like tracking your fitness, booking a ride, getting sports scores, fun games for the family and more. Just say, “Alexa, help me get started with skills.” Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Update it Bring the light in

B U I L D I N G F RO M S CR ATCH A new build or a large-scale renovation should always consider ways to maximise light and warmth, particularly on a tricky south-facing block or one that’s hemmed in by other buildings 1 Pick the best orientation Work out the best aspect on the block to capture maximum natural light. “It’s generally desirable to orientate entertaining and living areas to the north,” says James Bawden, builder and consultant at The Reno Coach. “This allows for maximum sun penetration in winter when you want it most.”

Aim for passive warmth

Words Kylie Jackes. Photography Gap Interiors/Douglas Gibb. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Spring ahead If your home is stuck in the dark days of winter, there are plenty of ways to inject light and warmth, and fast-forward to the new season

he shorter days and cooler temperatures of winter can result in a serious case of SAD. We’ve rounded up 16 bright ideas to fake a friendlier season in your home, whether you’re embarking on a new build, renovating or simply redecorating.

PRO TIP Go high! A soaring ceiling will enhance a light, airy feel so aim for a ceiling height of 2550mm or more

Use the power of the sun to heat your home for free! The science of passive heating means combining plenty of north-facing windows with materials that have a high thermal mass – like concrete or stone – on the floor and walls. They store the heat and feed it back into the home after the sun has gone. 3 Insulate! Insulation is the other key element of passive heating. The National Construction Code specifies the level of insulation required in a new build, but to make the most of passive heating, it pays to insulate above these minimum levels.

4 Allow for maximum illumination Where possible, use clever design and transparent materials to avoid blocking natural light levels. A well-designed staircase, for example, is a great way to play up available light. “To create a striking light well, use open treads, a glass balustrade and install a skylight above,” says James, adding, “A trend I’m also seeing is internal steel-framed glass doors, which act as a divider and noise buffer while allowing light to penetrate deeper into hallways.” 

Hume ‘Vaucluse Premier’ 2040mm x 820mm x 40mm entrance door, $497, I/N: 1970097. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered

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34 Velux flexible sun tunnel, $330, I/N: 0820176

Tip Go open plan – fewer internal walls mean fewer light barriers, so look where you might be able to edit non-structural walls to create a sun-infused free-flowing layout

Velux 550mm x 980mm solar skylight, $2080, I/N: 0811242

Install skylights

Even if a major reno isn’t on the cards, there’s no need to live with a cold and dim interior. These simple solutions can make a big difference with minimal construction or disruption 5 Upsize your windows “It may be possible to enlarge an existing window or convert it to a glass door or bifold to access an outdoor area,” says James Bawden. “However, as most external walls are load bearing, consult a builder or engineer before bringing out the sledgehammer!” 6 Consider a sun tunnel If you have a dreary walk-in robe, dark powder room or pantry, an effective solution for compact spaces is a sun bunnings.com.au |

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feeling doesn’t require tropical heat – always look to your power bill and environmental impact – but creating a comfortable warmth will impact hugely on your mood.

tunnel. “Quick and easy to install, a sun tunnel has a highly reflective tube that bounces and channels light where you need it,” explains Stephen Parry, marketing coordinator for Velux Australia. This is a great option in dark areas where a skylight isn’t practical.

8 Plug draughts Nothing shatters a spring illusion like an icy draught up the back of your neck. Check your home for draughts and seal where needed. Adhesive seals are quick and easy to apply around doors and windows, which is where most breezes sneak in.

7 Upgrade your heating Addressing the inadequacies of your current heating solutions requires looking at the layout of your home and pinpointing cold spots. Getting that spring

9 Overhaul your front door Swap a solid timber front door for one with glass panels. It will allow light to flow through your home and brighten your entry. Find a great example on page 33.

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Watch it! Plug those draughts bunnings.com. au/how-to-seal-a-window

Photography French+Tye, architects Office S&M; (opposite page) Sue Stubbs, styling Tilly Roberts.

RETROFIT SOLUTIONS

“Adding a bank of skylights boosts natural light and ventilation and can create a unique architectural feature that is truly transformative,” says Stephen. With products designed to suit either flat or pitched roofs, skylights are a great option in kitchens, bathrooms and living areas, with features including rain sensors, which come as standard with electric and solar-powered skylights. “Experienced installers can easily retrofit skylights into most homes,” says Stephen. “Yet before work commences it’s advisable to check if council approval is required.”

Update it D E CO R AT I V E I L LU S I O NS With a creative sleight of hand, you can go a long way towards brightening a shadowy home and revealing a spring-fresh look throughout 11 Add window coverings Floaty sheer curtains speak to summery weather and tropical escapes. For effective warming, add thick drapes over the sheers or try cellular blinds underneath, so you can combine a romantic visual effect with a practical and winter-appropriate material.

Hang a mirror or two

With their ability to bounce sunlight around and extend views, mirrors are a must to enhance a dim room. Max their reflective qualities by placing them on a wall opposite a window or glass door. Also consider a mirrored kitchen splashback or a smoked mirror panel below the island bench to enhance the sense of depth and light.

13 Pick a pale floor With the right palette of interior finishes, you can magically lift the light quota for a spring-like feel. Pale engineered floorboards make a great foundation, says interior designer Anoushka Allum of Anoushka Allum Design. “Rather than dark timbers or tiles, which absorb light, softer timber tones with a whitewash or natural finish will reflect light, creating the illusion of space,” she says.

“I love using sheer curtains in soft cottons and linen or, if space is limited, a translucent roller blind. This allows for natural light during the day and privacy when needed” Anoushka Allum interior designer

14 Go with white… A new coat of white paint can work wonders, but it’s important to pick a shade with the right undertone to help deal with the dullness of winter days. “Warm whites are good for spaces that suffer from less natural light as they don’t look yellow when light is limited and they provide warmth to the room,” says Anoushka. “I like Dulux Natural White and Snowy Mountains, and I always specify a satin finish for walls,

as it has a slight sheen, is easy care and, unlike matt, doesn’t show every mark.” 15 … but in moderation Avoid the temptation to go all white with your finishes and furnishings. “Instead work with a ratio of 70 per cent light and 30 per cent dark and use a muted colour palette, layered with texture,” says Anoushka. “Contrasting light and darker neutral shades, like soft sage greens and pastel pinks, will provide great contrast and, teamed with textural lighter timbers, flatweave rugs, indoor plants and interesting artwork, will make a space feel alive.” 16 Make way for metallics Think brass fixtures, shiny chromes or a touch of gold in accessories, light fittings and furnishings. To boost their shimmery appeal, position them near windows and mirrors. ◆ Cibo Design 600mm porthole mirror in Bronzed Oak, $197, I/N: 1730179

Riva 500mm x 500mm pinch pleat sheer curtain, $55, I/N: 0065306. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered

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Update it Garden makeover

The space in between Bordered by the house on three sides, this tricky courtyard area had the potential to be the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most peaceful pocket

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hen embarking on a new build, the landscaping can become a bit of an afterthought – but in this case, it was arguably a case of saving the best for last! “We built the house from scratch – it was literally a block in an empty field – and we were so focused on the house that we didn’t even think about what we were going to do around it,” says Jane, editor of Bunnings magazine and owner of this rural home on the NSW South Coast. A central courtyard, enveloped by the house on three sides, became the greatest head-scratcher, remaining largely undeveloped for several years. Though the odd layout – long and quite narrow – and a base of dense clay made the area difficult to work with, it had the potential to be a lovely outdoor spot for the colder months, with a northern aspect and shelter from the area’s chilly southerly winds. “In the winter especially, it becomes this great little suntrap,” says Jane, who had visions of turning the space into “somewhere to relax on a sunny afternoon”.

Pave the way

Words Shelley Tustin. Photography Sue Stubbs, styling Jessica Bellef.

To define a central seating area, Jane and husband Piers decided on pavers ‘grouted’ by grass. “We liked the idea of it looking quite natural in the space,” says Jane. The pale pavers dramatically lighten the space, while their rectangular shape performs a bit of visual trickery to make the area appear wider. Best of all, the porcelain material is an easycare option for this time-poor household. “We picked them because you don’t have to seal them and they require less maintenance,” says Jane.

This space comes into its own in winter, when the sheltered spot becomes a welcome tonic for the cold-season blues

Before

Digging out the clay soil and making sure the ground was perfectly level was a painstaking process, but the results were worth it

Take a seat

Comfy chairs are accessorised with a rustic log side table (pictured opposite). “A couple of old trees had fallen down in the woods and this particular one was a beautiful shape,” says Jane, who simply added castors to the bottom of the log. Voila: instant table! When the cold weather sets in, a gas patio heater and fire pit provide warmth and ambience.  Top: Mimosa ‘Lava’ 150cm x 38cm timber and aluminium bench, $249, I/N: 0115282. Tuscan Path 600mm x 400mm x 20mm porcelain pavers in Sand, $15.60 each, I/N: 0129319. Hortico tough & drought hardy lawn seed, $30.88/2.5kg, I/N: 2962080. Left and opposite: Mimosa ‘Honolulu’ timber single seater sofa chairs with cushion, $179 each, I/N: 0024801. For a similar fire pit, try Jumbuck rustic iron fire bowl with stand, $159, I/N: 3170943. Jumbuck gas outdoor patio heater in Charcoal, $149, I/N: 3171024. Textured cushion and basket, Kmart, kmart.com. au. Throw and mug, Temple & Webster, templeandwebster.com.au. Jug, Salt & Pepper, saltandpepper.com. au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings |

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Update it

Along the edges where the roof guttering overshadows the ground and grass was always going to struggle, Jane opted for a luminous border of white pebbles, contained by galvanised steel garden edging

Pebbles, for similar, try Tuscan Path 30-50mm pebbles in White, $11.98/50kg, I/N: 3460154. Whites 1180mm x 130mm galvanised steel interlock garden edging.

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Besser block steps make a sturdy alternative to timber

Block party

A big drop from an external doorway to the ground required a step – so Jane got handy with besser blocks! “I built it out of four besser blocks and caps,” she says. The plan is to paint it with sandstone paint, but in the meantime it looks good just the way it is, bookended by a groundcover of star jasmine. Left: Brighton Masonry 390mm x 190mm x 190mm full besser blocks, and 390mm x 190mm x 40mm besser block caps, Chinese star jasmine.

Make sure fire pits stand on a stable, non-flammable surface and never leave unattended when lit Right: Whites ‘Screen Up’ outdoor 19mm slat 2m side fix, $39.22, I/N: 1100734. SpecRite 90mm x 19mm x 2.25m finger jointed merbau decking, $72/pack of 5, I/N: 0064530*. SpecRite 42mm x 18mm x 2.7m finger jointed merbau screening, $9.20, I/N: 0064277*. Northcote Pottery ‘Precinct Lite’ 80cm x 31cm x 36cm terrazzo trough in White, $119, I/N: 2831987. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Narrow spacers hide the lessappealing view behind this merbau screen

*Not all timbers are available in all states.

Screen stars

The area’s biggest liability was its less-than-fabulous views of the gas hot water heater and earth bank supporting one side of the house. To hide the heater, a timber screen was made using a Whites ‘Screen Up’ system with merbau decking and screening timbers. The greater challenge was the earth bank, which required a huge length of screening. The solution: clumping bamboo, which creates a gently rustling, whispering green curtain across one whole side of the garden. “The only problem was we needed 16 pots of bamboo, and had to dig 16 holes in solid clay,” says Jane. Hand tools gave way to a hired post-hole digger, which made relatively short work of the job. ◆

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR

Update it DIY garden screen

Screen saver

PRO TIP

Use an easy-build kit to block out unattractive but important elements

When building any structure outside, choose treated timber or hardwood and always use galvanised or stainless steel fasteners

he solution to hiding the gas hot water heater and an unattractive but essential earth bank in this courtyard (see page 36) was a simple-to-fit, decorative DIY screen. The screen is 1940mm high and 1920mm wide and was made by installing a channel to a solid structure on either side. The timber, bought separately, was cut to width and each slat simply slipped down into each channel from the top, with spacers to keep the gaps even. Choose your channel kit to install against a wall as a ‘rear fix’ or between two supports as a ‘side fix’ (as we have). Check it matches the thickness of your timber (16mm or 19mm) and is the correct height for your space. TOOLS & MATERIALS

Your DIY toolkit 2

4 3

1 Whites ‘Screen Up’ outdoor 19mm slat 2m side fix, $39.22, I/N: 1100734. 2 Stanley ‘FatMax’ 900mm 3 vial beam spirit level, $57.98, I/N: 5660135. 3 Whites ‘Screen Up’ 10mm slimline spacers, $4.90/pack of 48, I/N: 1100970. 4 Makita 1650W 255mm compound mitre saw, $429, I/N: 6240337. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au |

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4 5

STEPS

To install the first channel, place it against the structure, ensuring the L-shaped lug that supports the screen is at the base. Hold a spirit level vertically to ensure the channel is perfectly straight to mark the holes, then secure with appropriate fixings for your surface. Tip: We chose button head screws for a flat profile, first installing wall plugs for securing to brick. Measure between the rear of the fitted channel and the opposite surface, subtracting 4mm to allow for the width of the channel and the screw heads. Transfer the measurement to a length of decking and cut a slat with a mitre saw as a template.

2 3

The screen’s simple pattern was drawn up on paper first, then made up using two different widths of merbau

Words Jane Parbury. Photography Sue Stubbs, styling Jessica Bellef. *Not all timbers are available in all states.

SpecRite 90mm x 19mm x 2.25m finger jointed merbau decking, $72/pack of 5, I/N: 0064530*; SpecRite 42mm x 18mm x 2.7m finger jointed merbau screening, $9.20 each, I/N: 0064277*

 Safety equipment  Measuring tape and pencil  Spirit level  Drill driver  Mitre saw Screen-up channel kit  (we used Whites ‘Screen Up’ slat 19mm x 2m side fix screening system) 30mm galvanised button  head screws (plus wall plugs for masonry) engths of 90mm x 19mm L merbau decking* Lengths of 42mm x 18mm  merbau screening* pacers (we used Whites  S ‘Screen Up’ 10mm spacers)

Position the remaining channel, insert the slat to rest on the lugs at the base and use a spirit level to check the slat and channel are straight before securing. (Note: You will need a second pair of hands for this step!) Remove the slat and use it as a template to cut the remaining slats. Insert the base slat into the top of both channels and slide it down to rest on the lugs. Insert a spacer in each channel and slide the second slat into place, repeating to complete the screen, using the template for the top slat and finishing with the supplied caps at the top of the channels. Tip: The channels are supplied with 20mm spacers, but we chose 10mm ones to make a more dense screen. ◆

Zinus ‘Ironline’ bed frame, $312/queen, I/N: 0152281

ADVERTISING FEATURE Zinus ‘MidCentury’ 3 seater sofa, $444, I/N: 0152421

Fast and the fabulous For key furnishings with the click of a mouse, Zinus brings beauty to you

nline shopping is a wonderful thing. But for a shopping experience to treasure, the goods need to be three things: fast, affordable and fabulous. Zinus brings enviable furniture design to your door in lightning-quick time and at a

price that will still leave plenty of room in the budget for accessories! With millions of happy customers worldwide, Zinus’s products are now available online through Bunnings MarketLink (bunnings.com.au/ bunnings-marketlink). Zinus ‘Suzanne’ bed base, $230/ double, I/N: 0152294

Zinus ‘Debi’ bed frame, $319/queen, I/N: 0175036

Get the look

Have you got unexpected guests on their way, or an unfinished room you just can’t look at a moment longer? Zinus is one of the world’s largest mattress suppliers, plus it offers affordable pieces for a stunning furniture fix on a budget. With Zinus bed frames, mattresses and sofas, you can completely refurnish a space at a walletfriendly price. But pinching your pennies doesn’t require you to lower your standards. Zinus manufacture their own products, cutting out the middle man to keep prices low and quality high – their trophy room of Good Design Awards is proof!

Clever packaging

Ordering furniture online can be a gamble, but Zinus products are designed to travel – and fast. Zinus’s signature mattressin-a-box does exactly what it says on the box, compressing the mattress into a slender and easily packaged cylinder, which then expands to its original Products are available to buy online only and are sold and delivered through a Bunnings MarketLink Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. Delivery charges may apply.

shape in minutes. Furniture frames come in a single box, so you’re never left wondering if you’re missing a piece, and being tailor-made for online sale, the range is designed to ship quickly (within two days for 70 per cent of Australians) and efficiently. This means your design dreams can be speedily brought to life, from first click to the knock at your door.

Piece of cake

While we adore the convenience of online shopping, many of us are crippled by FOF – fear of flatpack. But if a bad experience with an allen key has made you flatpack-shy, there’s good news. Most Zinus furnishings take a mere 10 minutes to build and require no tools except a ratchet or mallet, which come as part of the package: a single box containing every element, all clearly marked and ready for stress-free assembly. If your home needs a quick, stylish makeover, pop on to the Bunnings website and search for Zinus. With affordable prices and quick delivery, you can create that new look within days at a great price.

Now available online at bunnings.com.au

Update it Renter ’s rescue

Before

Charm on a budget If you’re renting your home or short on loose coin, you can still have a kitchen to be proud of, as this inspired transformation shows

t’s rare for a rental property to tick every aesthetic box and the Achilles heel for this apartment – as is the case for many – was a kitchen that was short on charm. With no time for bad taste, Bunnings magazine’s market editor Tilly

set about thinking of ways to revitalise the tired room, using tricks that would be light on her hip pocket and, crucially, would keep her landlord happy. Read on for style ideas to steal, whether you’re renting or renovating your own pad. 

TILLY

“I wanted to give the floor a pop of interest, and then for everything else to be clean and white and bright” Tilly Bunnings magazine’s market editor

The tired colour scheme and throwback flooring made Tilly’s rental unit kitchen look dated and neglected

Kitchen revamp cost

$335 Before

After

Prestige ‘Hampton’ 96mm handles in Black, $28.30/pack of 4, I/N: 3962307

Above: New black cabinet handles tie in with the bold flooring choice and the existing benchtop

Worn and cracked lino was impossible to keep looking clean, so Tilly opted to cover the offender in timeless chequerboard (right)

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Winton ‘Ideal’ 30.5cm x 30.5cm check self stick vinyl tiles in Black and White, $79.90/pack of 45, I/N: 6600684. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available in all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered

After A sharp black and white scheme immediately updates the space, and complements elements that canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be changed such as the stove and wall tiles

Stylish shade

HPM 300mm batten fix light shade in Traditional White, $10, I/N: 0094562

Fresh white walls

Dulux Wash&Wear low sheen paint in Natural White

Tip

Words Shelley Tustin. Photography (before) Cath Muscat, (after) James Moffatt, styling Tilly Roberts. Paint colours may vary on application.

Most landlords will be happy for you to embark on simple, low-cost improvements, but always get their permission first

Door revamp

The cabinet doors also got a refresh with paint

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Update it

After

agic of paint The walls were given a fresh coat of paint. “The blue walls made the room feel very dark and grimy. Even if you cleaned them, it still felt a bit dirty,” says Tilly, who repainted in Dulux Natural White, and also addressed the window frames, which had never been painted beyond the pink undercoat. Painting walls is the closest thing to a magic bullet for refreshing a room – even already white walls can be transformed with a new coat of the same colour. Before

Cabinet meeting Chipped and grimy cabinet fronts were desperately in need of a new look. As the cabinet doors were timber, sanding and painting them was a relatively straightforward project. Laminate doors can also be given a similar treatment with a specialist product such as White Knight laminate paint. Too hot to handle New cabinet handles in a matt black finish gave the plain cabinet doors an elegant upgrade. The easiest way to do this, says Tilly, is to choose a new one with the screws in the same position as the existing hardware. “Take one of the old handles with you to the store – it will save you a lot of time and effort!” she says. Though you can fill the screw holes and drill new ones, sticking with the same size handle makes it easier to change them up – and change them back if the landlord doesn’t like your choice! Vinyl revival “I would mop the floor but it just never seemed clean,” says Tilly of the ancient cracked lino. On the bright side, the surface was relatively flat, which made it a perfect candidate for self-stick vinyl tiles. Designed for DIY, these peel-and-stick tiles are easy to lay, easy to cut to size with a utility knife and ruler, and can be walked on immediately. Tilly’s top tip is to lay out the tiles on the floor bunnings.com.au |

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Tilly’s timber butcher’s block now brings a textural touch to the chic monochrome space

A slim Kaboodle Kitchen pantry cabinet and chrome wire shelving provide extra storage

Try Kaboodle 450mm kitchen pantry, $242, I/N: 2662276, with Kaboodle 450mm ‘Modern’ pantry door in Gloss White, $140, I/N: 2660123; and Pinnacle 2130mm x 900mm x 450mm 6-shelf wire storage unit in Chrome, $139, I/N: 2760374. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available in all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered

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first so you can see where you will have to trim. “Most advice is to start from the middle and work out, but none of my walls were straight and I would have had to cut way more. By working from left to right, it looks much cleaner,” she says. The intact squares run along the kitchen cabinets, while the trimmed tiles on the other side of the room are mostly hidden by the fridge and storage units. Shelf assured Short on storage? An open shelving unit can work wonders to upgrade a kitchen’s storage without a renovation. Use it to store cookbooks, your prettiest crockery and kitchen essentials. Tilly also added a tall and slim Kaboodle Kitchen pantry cabinet for less Instaworthy bits; her top tip is to upgrade freestanding storage with the same paint colour and handles for a cohesive look. ◆

Smart bin solutions for every room • Perfect for under the bench, in the pantry or on the countertop • Easy wipe clean for hygiene • Sizes and lid styles to suit all rubbish needs • Durable and long lasting

Beautify your benchtop

Bamboo benchtop

Kaboodle 2400mm x 600mm x 35mm bamboo benchtop, $491, I/N: 2662191, ‘Alpine’ drawer panels and cabinet doors in Black Olive, and ‘Mushroom’ 27mm knobs in Matt Black, $3.99 each, I/N: 2667730.

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Words Caroline Botting. Photography Tim Williams, styling Alice Pearson.

These budget-friendly kitchen benchtop revamps are easy to achieve, even for the non-handy among us

Fix it Benchtop maintenance

eing one of the hardest working areas in the house, it’s hardly surprising our kitchen benchtops get an absolute hammering, and replacing them can be costly. If this isn’t an option for you, here’s how to give the hub of your home a speedy refresh for a fraction of the cost.

HI HO TIMBER! A timber benchtop adds character and warmth to a kitchen, but no matter how well it’s sealed, watermarks, steam, dings and heat can all take their toll. “Timber benchtops help to create a natural, rustic look and feel for the home. But moisture and water can seep in and discolour timber and create an uneven or stained surface,” explains Brenna Mathews, senior brand manager at Cabot’s. If your benchtop has an oil coating, sand it back and reapply the oil with a paintbrush, giving each coat at least 12 hours to dry. In between each coat, lightly sand with 240-grit sandpaper and wipe away any dust. Don’t clean the benchtop with water or any other liquid for at least 10 days. This should be done once a year. If your benchtop was previously coated, first thoroughly clean the surface with Cabot’s Floor Clean and allow it to dry. Next, do a test patch with Cabot’s Benchtop Clear. “Allow it to dry for 24 hours. Then press sticky tape down firmly to the surface and pull off quickly. If the coating comes off, sand the bench back fully before applying the first coat,” Brenna says. Put on the product with a good quality brush and short nap roller in the direction of the grain, then allow to dry for a minimum of two hours. Lightly sand with 240-grit sandpaper to remove any grain raise, remove all sanding dust and apply two more coats, following the same process. “Additional coats give additional durability,” says Brenna, who advises inspecting your benchtop every 12 months to check for wear and tear and recoat if needed. 

A clear hard wax oil will help protect the benchtop; try Interbuild clear hard wax oil, $14.95/250ml, I/N: 0124069

PRO TIP If there are ring stains on a timber benchtop that’s been coated with Benchtop Clear, direct a hairdryer on its lowest setting over the mark. Keep it moving – don’t apply too much heat to one area – and the stain should disappear within five minutes

Timber 1

2200mm x 600mm x 26mm solid oiled hardwood project panel in Acacia, $99, I/N: 8330032

Instant benchtop Acacia is a popular hardwood for modern benchtops. This project panel has been treated with hard wax oil to make it perfect for wet environments

Watch it! Find out more: bunnings.com.au/how-toapply-clear-hard-wax-oil-to-benchtops

1 Cabot’s ‘Floor Clean’ interior timber cleaner, $16.60/1L, I/N: 1520143. 2 Cabot’s ‘Benchtop Clear’ gloss timber finish, $49.20/1L, I/N: 1520591. 3 Monarch ‘Advance Plus’ 50mm wall paintbrush, $29.89, I/N: 1664518. 4 Uni-Pro 75mm 5mm nap mohair roller kit, $8.39, I/N: 1660150. 5 Flexovit 100mm 240-grit painted surface sandpaper roll, $12.88/5m, I/N: 1210447. 6 Kaboodle 2400mm x 600mm x 33mm benchtop in Victorian Ash, $435, I/N: 2668272. Some products are not available in all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Fix it GRANITE EFFECT It’s possible to upcycle your worn-out benchtop to a lookalike granite finish over a weekend. Rust-Oleum Benchtop Transformations is a simple DIY product that works well on laminate and wood surfaces. The range comes in two pre-mixed colours, Galaxy Black and Diamond White, but there is an additional range of 30-plus tint bases in light and dark shades. Application is straightforward, with a few environmental factors to consider. Room temperature needs to be 16-27ºC and relative humidity below 70 per cent, Rust-Oleum product manager Ashla Magill recommends. “This allows perfect adhesion and curing conditions,” she says. Start by cleaning the surface and masking up all edges, including sinks, taps, appliances and the splashback. Thoroughly sand the entire benchtop surface using the diamondembedded sanding tool provided in the Benchtop Transformations kit. Cracks, chips, deeper cuts or dents can be repaired by filling them with the two-part epoxy putty, also in the kit. When the putty dries, sand the area until it is even with the surrounding surface. Roll on two coats of the base coat and allow 24 hours for it to dry. Then apply an even coat of the Protective Top Coat Ultra Durable Finish, which resists stains and moisture. The optimal curing time for maximum stain resistance is seven days, but once the protective coat is applied, light use can resume after 48 hours.

PRO TIP

Granite 1

1 Rust-Oleum ‘Benchtop Transformations’ benchtop coating system in Galaxy Black, $195, I/N: 1370083. 2 Rust-Oleum ‘Benchtop Transformations’ benchtop coating system in Diamond White, $195, I/N: 1370084. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

When painting your laminate benchtop, let the final coat dry for three days before using the bench. Make sure you use it lightly at first as it takes about a week for it to cure properly

Satin finish

PRO TIP Make sure the entire benchtop is de-glossed (sanded back) to ensure proper coating – this is done when the entire surface is covered with small scratches

A L A M I N AT E MAKEOVER

Rust-Oleum’s Benchtop Transformations in Diamond White (above) and Galaxy Black gives new life to kitchens

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You don’t have to spend megabucks to update a laminate benchtop – simply paint it. The Dulux Renovation Range provides a quick, inexpensive fix for an attractive solution, says Dulux brand manager Romy Nayagam. “A coat of paint can create an instant new look and transform a room from ‘then’ to ‘now’,” he says. “It’s the perfect weekend DIY.” It can also be very cost effective. For extra adhesion and longer lasting finishes on kitchen benchtops, Romy suggests applying primer first, and then finishing with the clear coat, which are both available in the Renovation Range. Start by thoroughly cleaning the benchtop and removing all silicone sealant from the joints. Mask any areas you don’t want painted – this is time consuming but well

Photography (left) Rust-Oleum; (above) Anna Robinson. Paint colours may vary on application. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

This previously dark kitchen was brightened up with specialist benchtop paint

worth the effort and will make the job easier. Following the product instructions, add all the additive to the paint and stir well for two to five minutes. Cut in with an angled sash cutter and use a short nap, 100mm wide microfibre roller to coat the remaining surfaces. Paint at least two coats, leaving at least eight hours between coats. Once each section is coated, gently go over the surface with an unloaded roller in the same direction. Finish with Dulux Renovation Clear Coat, again going gently over the surface with an unloaded roller. ◆

Laminate 7 2

8 5

Watch it!

Check out our easy-to-follow guide: bunnings.com.au/ modernise-your-kitchenby-painting-the-benchtop

1 Uni-Pro ‘You Can Do It’ 38mm angled cutter paintbrush, $6.80, I/N: 0019772. 2 Ezy Storage 12L square plastic bucket (assorted colours), $3.95, I/N: 4470518. 3 Uni-Pro 100mm mini paint tray, $1.98, I/N: 1670250. 4 Monarch 100mm microfibre short frame mini roller, $9.98, I/N: 1670284. 5 Dulux ‘Renovation Range’ tiles & benchtops water based interior coating, $69.90/1L, I/N: 0116499. 6 DTA silicone remover, $16.60, I/N: 6650182. 7 Paint Partner 2.6m x 3.6m clear plastic drop sheet, $1.05, I/N: 1661260. 8 Selleys super concentrate sugar soap, $5.75/1L, I/N: 1230181.

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Fix it DIY safety solutions

Play it safe

The first step to mastering DIY is knowing how to avoid injury, so take a look at our list of essential protective gear to stay on the safe side

ou’ve bought that power tool, and you’ve carefully read the manual, but are you using the right personal protective equipment (PPE) for the job? Goggles, gloves and other gear aren’t created equal, so read on to match the type to the task.

The eyes have it “Safety glasses should always be worn when working in environments with potential hazards such as flying particles and dust,” says Graham Honeyman, product manager for DeWalt personal protective equipment. “When working in high-dust environments, it is better to wear safety goggles, as they completely seal around the eye area. This provides a higher level of eye protection.”

1 UV Wraps polarised wraparound safety glasses, $32.95, I/N: 0087481. 2 DeWalt ‘Excavator’ safety glasses, $21.95, I/N: 0028629. 3 3M disposable ear plugs, $5.98/pack of 4 pairs, I/N: 0123564. 4 Safety Zone general purpose earmuffs, $11.88, I/N: 5820601. 5 3M ‘WorkTunes’ call connect bluetooth earmuffs, $99.90, I/N: 0095130. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Whether you’re pruning a tree or doing overhead maintenance work, protecting your noggin is also an important aspect of working at heights, so choose a reliable safety helmet or hard hat

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TOP TIP

Quiet achievers Both earplugs and earmuffs provide good hearing protection for general DIY. Earplugs are small and convenient. Some are reusable, but may have a lower noise-reduction rating. An inexpensive pair of earmuffs will reduce ambient noise significantly, but for the ultimate in hearing protection, you could opt for a smart headset with bluetooth connectivity that can deliver noise reduction capability as well as letting you stream your choice of tunes.

Words Gun Arvidssen. Photography (respirator) Getty Images.

Breathe easy Respirators range from light and inexpensive dust masks, only intended to protect you from inhaling small particles and mist, to heavyduty dual-cartridge models, which also filter out harmful vapours, and valved respirators to protect against non-toxic particles from sanding, grinding and sawing. Use a respirator designed for gardening to protect against organic dust from fertilisers and droplets from pesticides. It’s always good to check with an expert if in doubt about which respirator is right for the job.

Right up there

7 8 13

Safety on hand There is no ‘ultimate safety glove’ to do everything, so think about what you need protection from. Nitrile gloves are tough yet thin, providing waterproof and greaseproof protection without reducing sensitivity. For shielding against water, acids or mild chemicals, use thick PVC-dipped gloves. Gardeners need to protect hands from dirt, thorns and splinters without compromising dexterity, so leatherpalm gardening gloves are often a good option. Long cuff versions are useful for pruning roses. Power tools can generate vibration, so wear gloves with padded palms to reduce shock. “Choose padded gloves with a PVC overlay for applications where abrasion resistance and impact protection are required,” says Graham Honeyman. Protect the back of your hands, for example if you need to reach into confined spaces, using armoured mechanic’s gloves. “This type of glove is ideal for applications where impact resistance and superior grip is required,” says Graham. When handling materials with sharp edges, such as roofing or fencing panels, use gloves with cut-resistant palms. *Source NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation.

All about sole A sturdy pair of work boots is essential; choose steel-capped boots with tough soles to help you keep your footing when working on wet surfaces or up a ladder. “Comfort is important, because you’re usually on your feet for extended periods of time,” says Graham. “Choose a work boot that is lightweight, breathable and cushioned.” ◆

DID YOU KNOW? Ladders are associated with more fatalities and serious injuries in and around the home than any other DIY item!*

Step count “Ladders should be inspected before each use to check for signs of damage, excessive wear or missing components and discarded if not 100 per cent,” says Justin Howarth, national sales manager at Gorilla. Stepladders can range from short units that help you reach high shelves and cupboards, to larger ladders up to 3.6m. They are designed to be freestanding and do not need to be propped against a wall. A platform ladder is a type of stepladder with a platform and handrail. “The handrail makes it easy to have three points of contact when doing a job,” says Justin. It is recommended to keep three parts of your body in contact with the ladder at all times; for example, both feet and one hand. Multipurpose ladders can be used as stepladders, or fold out straight to lean against a wall or awning. Some have a telescoping function so are height adjustable and, because the two sides can be extended independently, can be used on stairs. An extension ladder comprises two or more shorter ladders that slide over each other to lock into position at the desired length, but must be propped against something when in use.

Besides common-sense precautions such as wearing sturdy footwear and making sure your ladder is standing on a solid, level surface, check out these top tips for reducing your risk.  Make sure there is another person nearby while you are working on a ladder.  Ensure the ladder’s weight rating covers not only you, but also any paint tins or other equipment you are working with.  Use a specialised ladder grip or ladder helper to secure your ladder when leaning it against guttering.  If propping a ladder against the roof, ensure it overhangs the roof line by at least one metre.  Attach a safety boom when working on a platform ladder for longer periods of time.

6 Sabco ‘Professional’ chemical resistant ultra nitrile gloves, $4.36/medium, I/N: 0065937. 7 Mechanix Wear ‘Landscape M-Pact’ gloves, $29.98/medium, I/N: 0033171. 8 DeWalt large performance mechanic gloves, $33.95, I/N: 5810822. 9 Bata knee length steel cap safety gumboots, $32.50/size 6, I/N: 0127208. 10 DeWalt ‘ProComfort’ Akron leather extreme duty work boot in Wheat, $179/size 9, I/N: 0067302. 11 Hard Yakka ‘3056’ side zip 5” (12.7cm) water resistant leather work boot in Olive, $135/size 9, I/N: 0049037. 12 Lock Jaw 14.5cm x 26.5cm x 15cm ladder grip accessory, $99, I/N: 0134546. 13 Bailey Ladders 4.15m 135kg aluminium triple extension ladder, $269, I/N: 0860861. 14 Gorilla 1.5m-2.4m 150kg aluminium adjustable platform ladder, $581, I/N: 0861031. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Watch it!

Follow this ladder safety advice: bunnings. com.au/how-to-use-a-ladder-correctly

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bunnings | bunnings.com.au

Give your valuable DIY equipment the care it deserves by keeping it safe from thieves

uality tools are a worthwhile investment that will ensure years of reliable service, whether you’re an avid DIYer working on projects around the home, or a tradie who depends on them for work. Your enjoyment of your tools can be cruelly cut short if thieves make off with them, so don’t skimp on the essentials you need to keep your possessions safe. Site for sore eyes The best general tip for keeping your gear safe is to make it as hard as possible to steal, as this sort of crime is often opportunistic. If potential thieves come up against welded storage boxes and maximum-security padlocks, they’re more likely to move on to an easier target. It might seem obvious not to leave tools lying around on the worksite, but it only takes a moment of focusing on something else to discover your expensive nail gun has disappeared. Ideally, store valuables in a secure area of the site which is visible to you and any work colleagues – but out of sight to passers-by. When not in use, secure them in a chest like the Rhino powder coated site box with ‘Theft Protect’ security locking system. “It features a concealed front padlock chamber and tamper-proof hinge, making potentially vulnerable parts of the box more resistant to break-in,” explains Ben Kissell, operations manager for Thunderbox Industries.

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The braidy bunch Don’t assume that larger items such as ladders are too heavy and conspicuous to get stolen. Try securing them with a heavy-duty cable like Master Lock’s ‘Python’ adjustable locking cable. “It has a 100 per cent braided steel cable for strength and reliability and weather-tough vinyl sleeve,” says Sean Devlin-Look, product manager for Master Lock. It’s also harder to cut than twisted steel, explains Sean. “If thieves attack it with bolt cutters, the interwoven steel creates a crimping or squashing effect instead of a cutting action,” he says. Living on the etch Use an engraving tool to etch your name, phone number and licence number on Key notes Avoid the temptation to hide your shed or garage key anywhere nearby. No matter how cleverly it’s been concealed, you never know when a potential thief might see you retrieve the key from its hiding spot. The best policy is always to install a key safe, which can also be used to hold a spare key to your home. These are available in wall-mounted format for permanent attachment, or in a portable configuration that can be easily used on a worksite.

your tools. This makes them more difficult to sell or pawn, and easier to recover in case they do vanish. It’s also wise to keep receipts of major tool purchases and, especially if you use your tools for work, keep an inventory of what you own, including the serial numbers of all the items. Tray harder Keep your car or van locked whenever expensive tools are stored inside. If you leave anything lying around in the tray of your ute, you might as well be setting out a smorgasbord for thieves. A quality ute toolbox is a good option for keeping equipment safer in transit and while you’re out on a job, but it’s not intended to be a maximum-security measure. Ideally, park in a secure garage overnight, or remove your gear from your vehicle at day’s end and store it under lock and key. Lock it up The cornerstone of many security solutions – ranging from garden sheds to ute lockers – is a tough padlock. “The weakest point of a padlock is always the shackle,” says Sean. Master Lock’s maximum-security padlocks feature octagonal boron-carbide shackles. “These are near-impossible to cut,” he adds. If you’re storing valuable tools out in the garden shed, make it a good one so they don’t become easy targets. “Keep valuable tools out of sight and locked

Words Gun Arvidssen. Photography Getty Images. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Protection detail

Fix it Secure your tools

PRO TIP To protect larger items of equipment – including ladders – that are essential to have onsite but don’t fit in your securely locked toolbox, use a chain and padlock to fasten to your vehicle when parked

Rhino 1175mm x 550mm x 690mm powder coated site box, $398, I/N: 6120162

Master Lock ‘ProSeries’ 57mm shrouded combination padlock, $66, I/N: 0057776

Master Lock ‘Python’ 1.8m x 10mm adjustable locking cable, $64, I/N: 3961515

away in a high-quality garden shed,” advises Rosie Cameron, brand manager for Absco Industries. Eyes on the prize Even if it’s well-secured, a shed in the far corner of the backyard may be difficult to keep an eye on. This is one situation where wireless security options can be particularly useful. “Adding lights or cameras triggered by motion sensors will add another layer of security,” suggests Rosie. Security lights switch on when an infrared detector, usually mounted on the fitting itself, senses motion nearby. Best of all, there are plenty of weatherproof, solar-powered options that can be installed anywhere, without the need for mains wiring. Wireless security cameras are fast and easy to install, with some featuring a built-in siren that can be activated using an app on your smartphone or tablet. Most include infra-red night vision, allowing you to observe and record suspicious activity at any hour, and can send an alert to your smartphone if they detect sound or motion. If mains power is not connected to your shed, an optional solar kit can keep the camera charged indefinitely. Keep in mind that hard-wired electrical fixtures must be installed by a qualified electrician. ◆

Rhino 1470mm x 600mm x 470mm aluminium checkerplate ute toolbox, $398, I/N: 6120475

Master Lock ‘Excell’ 50mm covered padlock, $41.30, I/N: 4211033

Gardenglo 1000lm linkable solar motion sensor light, $65, I/N: 0129561

Arlo ‘Pro 2’ 1080p wire-free security camera system, $622, I/N: 0087053

Ozito 15W electric engraver, $24.98, I/N: 6290600

Master Lock portable bluetooth key safe, $233, I/N: 4211445

Absco Sheds ‘Fortress’ 3m x 0.77m x 2.4m shed in Monument, $2,130, I/N: 3318221

HPM 150W twin security sensor light, $25.90, I/N: 4370332

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Make it Storage solutions

PRO TIP When choosing brackets, check the weight limit to ensure they will be sufficient for your needs

Shelf life

Stylish and practical, shelves are a handy way to raise the storage quota in your home. Here are three of our favourite types

hether your shelves are designed to be handsome or hardworking – or both! – you need to consider their purpose, and whether they’re going to be up to the task (particularly if they will be strong enough) before making your choice. Here’s how to make and mount three different types of shelves: a decorative display shelf, a batten version to be integrated into joinery, and a stunning box shelf. You’ll need a drill with a Phillips head driver bit, plus tools for cutting timber – either a handsaw with mitre box or an electric mitre saw, or utilise the in-store cutting service. TOOLS & MATERIALS

Project, instructions, photography and styling Natasha Dickins. *Not all timbers are available in all states

Your DIY toolkit

1 2

1 Zenith 185mm quad bracket in Matte Black, $13.63, I/N: 0028653. 2 Stanley FatMax ‘Sensor 300’ stud finder, $38.90, I/N: 5660419. 3 Claymark 184mm x 19mm x 1.2m premium grade dressed pine sheet, $13.85, I/N: 8401500*. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

 Safety equipment  Stud finder  600mm level  Drill and 4mm drill bit  Tape measure and pencil 80-grit abrasive paper  1 with sanding block 2 shelf brackets  Plasterboard or 55mm  masonry anchors (if required) 50mm and 20mm panhead  screws 184mm x 19mm DAR pine*,  cut to 600mm

Small lightweight decorative shelf

To install a wall-mounted shelf you’ll need supports, like these quad brackets that are designed to hold lightweight items only. For a plasterboard wall, position the bracket screws directly into a wall stud. If this isn’t possible, install nylon anchors for the screws. For a masonry wall, use 55mm masonry anchors with the supplied screws.

STEPS Position the first bracket with screw holes over a stud, if possible, and sit the level over the top to check the bracket remains straight while marking the holes. Pre-drill holes with a 4mm bit and install anchors (see above), then reposition the bracket and secure with 50mm screws.

Measure 300mm from the attached bracket to position the second bracket. Use the level to check they line up and are straight. Mark holes to pre-drill or install anchors, then reposition the bracket and secure with screws.

Lightly sand the pine, then position over the brackets. Push against the bracket lip and check it is centred. From underneath, pre-drill the pine through the screw holes to 5mm deep, then secure with 20mm screws. }

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Giving this box display shelf the same finish as the shelves above creates a subtle but effective feature in this kitchen Safety tip Before drilling into walls, use a studfinder to check for wiring and pipework, and turn off the power while working

TOOLS & MATERIALS

 Safety equipment Drill with 8G countersinking  bit and 4mm bit 180-grit abrasive paper  with sanding block  Cloth  Mini roller with tray  Stud finder  Painter’s tape  Level Two lengths 90mm x  12mm DAR timber*, cut to 776mm (for the top and base) One length 140mm x 12mm  DAR timber*, cut to 776mm (for the back)  Woodworking adhesive Two lengths 140mm x  12mm DAR timber*, cut to 102mm (for the ends) 30mm and 50mm screws   Timber filler Varnish or paint (we used  Bondall ‘Monocel’ clear wood varnish in Satin)

PRO TIP

Mid-weight display shelf

This shelf is based on a simple box design that can be hung on its own or integrated into other joinery, such as kitchen shelving or wall-mounted cabinets. This shelf is 800mm wide but the top, base and back measurements can be adjusted up to a metre long.

STEPS The shelf is constructed with screws secured through pre-drilled holes made with a countersinking bit 6mm in from the edges. On the back piece, space the holes about 180mm apart on the long sides. On the end pieces, drill two evenly spaced holes into the short sides and the rear long side.

On the top piece, apply adhesive along one edge and position it against the back piece, checking the edges are flush and securing with 30mm screws. Repeat with the base piece and the end pieces, wiping away excess adhesive with a damp cloth and leaving to dry.

1 Timbermate wood filler in Natural, $9.75/250g, I/N: 1560685. 2 P&N ‘Quickbit’ pilot drill/countersink bit set, $20.95/set of 4, I/N: 6350008. 3 Bondall ‘BondCrete’ woodworking adhesive, $9.30/250ml, I/N: 0960527. bunnings.com.au |

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instructions and leaving to dry thoroughly. Tip: You only need to fill the screws that are visible once the shelf is installed.

Your DIY toolkit 1

Sand over the screws to remove breakout and fill with timber filler, leaving to dry. Sand the shelf all over, then varnish or paint, applying two to three coats according to the manufacturer’s

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Position the shelf to secure into at least two studs and a side wall or cabinet. If this isn’t possible, pre-drill holes through the back of the shelf and into the wall, about 200mm apart. Remove the shelf to install plasterboard anchors, then complete step 5

Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs, marking them with tape. Hold the shelf against the wall, place a level along the top to check that it’s straight and mark along the top of the shelf on the wall. Pre-drill directly into the wall studs through the back of the shelf. Tip: If using anchors (see Pro Tip, above), install them after pre-drilling.

Countersink the holes, then secure the shelf to the wall with 50mm screws. Sand away breakout, apply filler and leave it to dry. Sand over the filler and touch up the paint or varnish using the tip of the mini roller. Tip: If installing other shelving or cabinets, put them up before attaching the box shelf.

Make it DIY batten shelves allow you to maximise space and tailor your storage to your exact needs

PRO TIP Measure the depth of the space and buy a pine panel in a width to suit – standard panel widths are 405mm and 600mm STEPS Measure the back from wall to wall to cut the back batten, checking it fits snugly and marking the position at one corner. Tip: To avoid sawdust mess in a small space, set up outside to cut and countersink.

Use a countersinking bit to pre-drill holes about 100mm from the ends of the batten and 250mm apart. Apply construction adhesive along the back of the batten, position it on the wall at the mark and secure the first 30mm screw. Place a level on the batten and adjust it to sit straight, then complete securing the screws.

3 TOOLS & MATERIALS

 Safety equipment  Stud finder  Tape measure and pencil D rill with 8G countersinking bit  600mm level 42mm x 19mm DAR pine*,  cut to fit  Construction adhesive  30mm screws  18mm pine panel*, cut to fit Primer  Paint   Screw caps

Heavy-duty storage shelf

This batten shelf is a heavy-duty, low-budget solution for an alcove space such as a wardrobe or linen closet, and can be installed into built-in melamine joinery without having to secure to wall studs. Battens are secured around the wall to distribute the weight evenly. Leave the battens and shelf raw or paint them with a roller or brush in the same colour as the walls for a seamless effect.

*Not all timbers are available in all states. Paint colours may vary on application.

Your DIY toolkit 1

Place a level over the back and side battens and adjust so it sits straight, then complete securing the screws and repeat for the other side. Tip: Paint the battens and shelf panel before installing, or freshen up the entire wall once installed. Tip: To paint melamine, first apply primer then two coats of water-based enamel.

4 3

From the back wall, measure and mark the depth of the shelf panel on the side wall, then measure from the back batten to this mark for the length of the side battens. Cut the side battens, then drill holes as in step 2. Apply construction adhesive, then line up the batten with the back and secure with a 30mm screw into the hole nearest the back.

1 Claymark 42mm x 19mm x 1.8m premium grade dressed pine, $5.95, I/N: 8401457*. 2 Buildex ‘Climacoat’ 8-10 x 30mm countersunk rib head treated pine screws, $9/pack of 100, I/N: 2420661. 3 Empire ‘True Blue’ 600mm spirit level, $51.95, I/N: 5660685. 4 Taskmaster 10mm screw caps in White, $3.29/100 pack, I/N: 0035555. 5 Selleys ‘Ezi Press’ liquid nails, $10.23/130g, I/N: 1210584. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

To cut the shelf panel, measure the width of the space at the back and front (in case the wall is not square) and subtract 5mm to allow for movement when installing. Countersink along each side, 30mm from the front and 8mm from the edges, then position over the battens and secure with screws. Add screw caps to cover visible screws. ◆

PRO TIP To install in a wardrobe, check screws won’t protrude through the sides of the wardrobe. Standard joinery is 16mm thick, so add 19mm for the thickness of the pine and choose 30mm-long screws

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Make it Transform a metal cabinet

Wall in Dulux Golden Marguerite and British Paints Vital Rose paints. Verve Design 60W metal dome pendant light in White, $64.20, I/N: 7070975. Winton ‘Ideal’ 30.5cm x 30.5cm check self stick vinyl tiles in Black and White, $79.90/pack of 45, I/N: 6600684. BoLiving ‘Delphi’ velvet armchair in Royal Blue, $249*, I/N: 0165930. Cushion, Target, target.com.au. Vase, Adairs, adairs.com.au. Bowl, Kmart, kmart.com. au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered through a Bunnings MarketLink Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

Colour change Put a softer spin on industrial style with this simple hack, giving a practical locker a pastel-pretty makeover

rom a practical piece for the office or garage to a sweet centrepiece for a living space, this spectacular transformation demonstrates the magic of paint. To revamp this black metal cabinet, we simply replaced the castors with timber feet and finished it in a soft, chalky paint. The chalk-finish spray paint we used requires three or four lightly applied coats, which are touch dry in about 10 minutes, making this a satisfying paint project for a peaceful afternoon.

TOOLS & MATERIALS

 Safety equipment  Measuring tape and pencil  Mitre saw or handsaw  Clean cloth  Masking tape  Drop cloth Pinnacle Hardware 810mm x 520mm  x 500mm single door mobile cabinet  1.2m length 70mm x 70mm DAR pine*  Construction adhesive  Metal primer spray paint Two cans of matt spray paint  (we used Dulux ‘Duramax’ chalky finish paint in Pink Splendour)

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble the cabinet, installing the shelf but keeping the door separate. Leave off the anti-slip top liner and castors, which are replaced with timber feet. Tip: Keep the cardboard packaging to use as offcuts.

Position cardboard offcuts inside the front of the cabinet to seal and prevent paint overspray. Mask around the back of the door and the lock on the front. Tip: Prepare for spray-painting by working outside and covering the surrounds with a drop cloth.

Your DIY toolkit

SAFETY TIP

Photography Cath Muscat, styling Tilly Roberts. Project, instructions and steps photography Natasha Dickins. Paint colours may vary on application. *Not all timbers are available in all states.

2 3 1

On 70mm-square pine, measure four 100mm lengths and cut with a mitre saw or handsaw. Apply construction adhesive to the tops and position flush with the corners of the cabinet, wiping away excess adhesive with a damp cloth. Leave the cabinet upright to apply weight while the adhesive dries.

Clean the cabinet and door with a damp cloth and leave to dry. Apply primer to all visible surfaces of the door and cabinet, including the feet, and leave to dry. Tip: Shake the can for three minutes, then hold it 250mm from the surface to apply a light, even coat.

When using spray paint, always wear a mask and gloves and work in a well-ventilated area protected from winds to prevent overspray

1 Pinnacle Hardware 810mm x 520mm x 500mm single door mobile cabinet, $252, I/N: 0038060. 2 Porta 70mm x 70mm x 1.2m DAR standard and better pine, $19, I/N: 0021192*. 3 Selleys ‘Ezi Press’ liquid nails, $10.23/130g, I/N: 1210584. 4 Bahco hardpoint handsaw, $13, I/N: 5710249. 5 Paint Partner 2.6m x 3.6m plastic backed canvas drop sheet, $16.80, I/N: 1660308. 6 Dulux ‘Duramax’ metal primer spray paint, $12.88/340g, I/N: 1400721. 7 Dulux ‘Duramax’ chalky finish spray paint in Pink Splendour, $15.40/340g, I/N: 0073684. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Apply the first coat of spray paint, moving the can in a back-and-forward motion over the surface. Leave it to dry for 10 minutes, then lightly apply a second coat, repeating the application until the surface is smooth and even. Tip: Move around the cabinet to apply the paint from different angles for a thorough finish.

Remove the cardboard from inside the cabinet and tape from the door. Attach the door, adding the supplied washers and key. Tip: Dispose of spray-paint cans responsibly by ensuring they’re empty, removing the lids and placing in the recycling bin (check first with your local council’s waste policy). ◆ bunnings |

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Make it Inspired upcycling

Transform

Re-cover

Enhance

Paint Renew

Magic makeovers

Leftover paint, surplus cushions, a few craft supplies and basic tools: what our creative magazine team members used to transform unloved pieces around their home from shonky to chic bunnings.com.au |

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Large-scale graphic designs work best on a project of this size

For our projects, we used: TOOLS & MATERIALS Safety equipment  Disposable gloves  D rop sheet Screwdriver  Stapler, pencil, twine  Masking tape  P aintbrushes (including angled brush) Mini paint roller kit  Screen Rust converter (we used Bondall Ranex  ‘Rustbuster’ rust converter) P rimer (we used Rust-Oleum ‘2X Ultra Cover’ spray primer in Flat White) White spray paint  Topcoat paint in your choice of colours 

Before

Crates No-primer spray paint (we used White  Knight ‘Squirts’ paint & prime spray paints) Lampshade R ickrack trim Glue gun  Hot glue gun sticks  Stool Clean cloths  Furniture polish (we used Gilly’s furniture  and floors Scratch Cover in Light)

Photography James Moffatt, styling Tilly Roberts. Paint colours may vary on application.

Chair Rust converter (we used Bondall Ranex  ‘Rustbuster’ rust converter) 120-grit metal sanding sheet  Spray paint (we used Dulux ‘Metalshield’  epoxy enamel spray paint in Flat White) 240-grit abrasive paper  Liquid beeswax (we used Gilly’s  liquid beeswax) Clean cloths  Cushion covers to fit your chair   Cushion insert Quick Grip 50mm spring clamps 

PRO TIP When spray-painting, wear a mask and gloves and work outside or in a well-ventilated area, covering surrounding surfaces with a drop cloth to avoid overspray

U P DAT E A D U L L S CR E E N Give a basic room divider a much sunnier disposition with the power of paint Method

Brush debris and dust from the screen and mask over the hinges. Tip: Treat rusty hinges with a rust converter. Wear safety gear and follow the instructions on the packaging. Position the screen upright on a drop sheet. Wear a mask, glasses and gloves to lightly spray the screen with white primer, applying two to three coats in a back-and-forward motion over the face and around the edges, leaving to dry after each coat. Finish with topcoat in white. Tip: Work in a well-ventilated area and cover surrounding surfaces to avoid overspray.

Position the screen flat to mask out your design over the panels using painter’s tape, completely covering sections where the white will show. To mark out circles, tie a length of twine to a small craft paintbrush. Position the brush at the edge of where the circle will be and run the twine to the centre, stapling it to the screen. Test the twine will guide the brush in a sweeping motion to mark out the edge of the circle, adjusting the knots to maintain tension. Load the brush with coloured paint, then tension the string to guide

the brush over the screen, repeating the pass for a solid, evenly applied curve. Tip: Use a damp cloth or cotton bud in a twisting motion to remove smudges. Cut in around the curve with an angled brush and paint the rest of the panel using a mini roller and tray, applying a couple of evenly applied coats, leaving to dry after each application. Wash out the brushes and roller, pat them dry with paper towel or a cloth, then repeat marking out the circles and painting with a second colour, leaving the screen to dry thoroughly before standing it upright. 

6 7

Above: Screen painted in Rust-Oleum ‘2X Ultra Cover’ spray primer in Flat White, $13.59/340g, I/N: 1580676, Rust-Oleum ‘2X Ultra Cover’ spray paint in Flat White, $13.59/340g, I/N: 1580678, and Taubmans Nayoo (orange) and Dulux Brasso paints. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings |

bunnings | bunnings.com.au

These crates make ideal storage for small toys, stationery and magazines

Make it CO LO U R F U L CR AT E S No-primer spray paint that bonds to plastic makes short work of turning plain black crates into gelato-hued storage too good for the garage Method

1 2

Brush debris and dust from the crates, position a drop sheet over the work area and place the crates upside down. Wearing protective gloves, glasses and mask, apply two to three coats of paint, using a back-and-forward motion, working over the base and around the edges, leaving to dry after each coat. When the last coat is dry, turn the crates over to spray inside, working around the sides and over the base for even coverage, applying two to three coats, leaving to dry after each coat.

Right: Tactix ‘Easy Knock Down’ crates, $9.98 each, I/N: 2583340, painted in White Knight ‘Squirts’ paint & prime spray paints in Gloss Pink, $8.40/310g, I/N: 1560623, Gloss Lemon Yellow, $8.40/310g, I/N: 1560633, and Gloss Orange, $8.40/310g, I/N: 1560622.

Before

TILLY Market editor

It’s easy to add whimsy to an ordinary piece: just go bold!

LAMPSHADE Humble rickrack in a cheerful hue adds pizzazz to a simple white lampshade Method

1 2

Position rickrack around the bottom of the lampshade to measure how much is needed, add a 10mm overlap and trim. Wear protective gloves while using the hot glue gun. Apply a dab of glue to position and hold the rickrack, then dab around the base of the shade, pressing the rickrack into position as you go. Overlap the ends of the rickrack, applying glue between them. Dab the end to prevent fraying. Leave to cure.

Above: Verve Design ‘Dawn’ medium round tapered lampshade, $16.80, I/N: 7070589, and ‘Mardin’ 36cm lamp base in White, $18.50, I/N: 4371011. Jumbo rickrack, available from craft stores. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au |

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63 Up the comfort factor by adding extra stuffing to a vintage chair

NO-SEW CHAIR UPGRADE Soften the lines of a classic mid-century dining chair with look-at-me upholstery: a cheat’s version made from repurposed cushions

Before

Method

Working on a drop sheet, remove the seat and back. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws from the frame. Tip: Treat rusty screws with rust converter to reuse when reassembling the chair. Wear gloves, glasses and a mask suitable for sanding and painting. To paint the metal chair tips (ferrules), apply tape around the timber legs and lightly sand the ferrules with 120-grit metal abrasive paper. Wipe clean. Spray the ferrules with white paint, holding a cardboard offcut behind to avoid overspray. Apply two coats, leave to dry after each. Remove tape and smooth over the timber frame with 240-grit abrasive paper. Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Apply liquid beeswax over the frame using a

clean cloth. Leave to dry for half an hour then buff all over in a circular motion with another clean cloth. Position cushion covers over the seat and backrest. Cut open a cushion insert and use the stuffing to pad inside the covers. Fold the covers towards the underside of the seat and rear of the backrest, clamping with spring clamps. Staple the open edges of the covers to the underside of the seat and rear of the backrest. Find the screw holes under the seat and at the rear of the backrest, marking them with a pen. Reassemble the chair by pushing the screws through the holes in the frame and the fabric, tightening them into the seat and backrest with a screwdriver. ◆

6 7

Left: Chair timber restored using Gilly’s liquid beeswax, 32.99/250ml, I/N: 0149315. Chair feet painted in Dulux ‘Metalshield’ epoxy enamel spray paint in Flat White, $11.90/300g, I/N: 1400831. Cushion case covers, stylist’s own.

WOOD REFRESH Rescue a worn timber or veneer piece

BRIDIE Art director

Keep restoration simple by using a product specifically designed for the task

Method

1 2

Use a warm, damp cloth to remove dirt and dust from the stool. Position it on a drop sheet. Wearing protective gloves and a mask, use a clean cloth to apply a light coat of furniture polish over the surface and around the edges, wiping away excess oil. With another clean cloth wipe over the polish to buff lightly.

Before

Right: Stool restored using Gilly’s furniture and floors scratch cover in Light, $21.95/100ml, I/N: 0138899.

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Hanging out Handsome enough to live in plain sight even when not in use, we’re loving this DIY drying rack project

Safety tip Before drilling into walls or ceiling, use a studfinder to check for wiring and pipework. Turn off the power while working

Secure the ceiling hooks into a stable joist or rafter and leave a minimum clearance of 350mm to raise and lower the rack

rying racks are the bee’s knees when it comes to clearing your laundry pile, while having a lighter impact on the environment (and your power bills) than a tumble dryer. But if your home’s small footprint makes standard drying racks a pain, a hanging rack could be the answer. Mounted on a pulley system, it can be lowered to hang your clothes, then raised back up to take advantage of the warm air wafting around at ceiling height. If you can’t get hold of 30-40mm wide leather, use 25mm-wide jute or polyester webbing instead, or even recycle some old leather belts!

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TOOLS & MATERIALS

 Safety equipment  Measuring tape and pencil  Handsaw Drill with driver bit  3.2mm, 3.5mm and 6.5mm  drill bits  Philips head screwdriver bit  Quick-grip clamps  8G countersink bit  Combination square 180- and 240-grit abrasive paper   Clean cloth  Synthetic narrow paintbrush Utility knife  1.2m length 43mm-diameter  Tasmanian oak dowel* T hree 2.4m lengths 25mmdiameter Tasmanian oak dowel* 600mm pine batten or similar  (we used 89mm x 19mm DAR pine)*

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 Two 32mm saddle clips 50mm black countersunk  timber screws Clear water-based satin-finish  varnish Two 30mm x 700mm leather  strips (available at craft stores)  7mm tarpaulin eyelets 40mm black countersunk  timber screws  Two 6mm quick-link triangles Two 89mm x 7.6mm  ceiling hooks 25mm Zenith brass  single pulley 25mm Zenith brass  double pulley 4mm para cord in Black (we  used about 9m)  Timber adhesive

STEPS To cut the side pieces, mark halfway along the 43mm dowel, cutting with a handsaw for two equal lengths of 600mm. To cut the rails, mark the 25mm dowel lengths in half and cut with a handsaw to make five 1.2m lengths (the sixth length is a spare). Alternatively, have the dowel cut in store but double-check the lengths are exact. Sand all dowel with 180-grit abrasive paper. Tip: To sand, wrap a piece of sandpaper once around the dowel, hold gently with one hand and push the dowel back and forth through the sandpaper with the other hand.

Make it Retro laundry rack

PRO TIP 1

Check the drill is set to ‘drilling’ when using drill bits and ‘driving’ when using a driver for screws – you could have two drills set up to avoid changing the bits and settings

6 3

Use a combination square to mark the centres of the two side piece ends, then use a 3.5mm bit to drill 40mm-deep holes. Wipe the rack with a clean cloth and apply a coat of varnish using a synthetic paintbrush. When dry, lightly sand rails with 240-grit abrasive paper (avoid the screws) then wipe down and apply another coat of varnish. Leave to dry.

7 5

To attach the straps, mark 21.5mm from the ends and drill through with a 6.5mm bit. Place an eyelet into the hole, position it against the end of a side piece and secure into the pre-drilled hole with a 40mm screw. Repeat with the other ends.

Use a utility knife to round the corners, then attach a quick-link triangle on each strap.

Install ceiling hooks 1100mm apart, then hang the pulleys off these hooks. Thread about 5m of para cord through the double pulley first, then the single pulley and down to the quick-link. Tie off using a hangman’s knot. Thread a second length of para cord about 3.9m through the double pulley only and tie off onto the other quick-link. Tie both ends of cord together and secure to a cleat on the wall. Note: The length of rope used depends on the height of your ceiling and how low you want your rack to hang. ◆

Your DIY toolkit 1

Photography James Moffatt, styling Tilly Roberts. Project, instructions & steps photography Claire Granville. *Not all timbers are available in all states.

Position one side piece on the 600mm pine batten, securing with two saddle clips and screws. Measure and mark the dowel at 50mm, 125mm, 300mm, 425mm and 550mm. Use a 3.2mm bit to drill 20mm-deep holes at each mark. Repeat with remaining side piece, leaving it secured in the saddle clips. Sand over the holes.

Clamp a 25mm dowel rail over the work surface edge. Mark 50mm from the end, drill through with a 3.2mm bit. Change to an 8G countersink bit and drill to taper the hole so the screw head sits below the surface. Repeat for remaining rails and sand over the holes.

Working on one rail at a time, drive a 50mm screw through the hole so the tip protrudes about 3mm, position the screw into the hole of the side piece and secure. Repeat with the remaining rails.

Position the remaining side piece under the rails so they are straight and evenly spaced. Mark each of the rails 50mm from the ends. Hold firmly and drill through each rail and 20mm into the side piece with a 3.2mm bit. Use the countersinking bit to taper the holes, sand smooth, then secure from the top with 50mm screws.

4 5 6

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1 Porta 25mm x 2.4m Tasmanian oak dowel, $25, I/N: 0080062. 2 Ozito ‘PXC’ 18V drill and impact driver kit, $169, I/N: 6290524. 3 Grunt 4mm para cord, $9.98/30m, I/N: 4310740. 4 Kinetic 32mm galvanised BSP pipe saddle clips, $9.70/pack of 10, I/N: 4920126. 5 Zenith 6mm zinc plated quick-link triangle, $2.91, I/N: 4220638. 6 Zenith 25mm nickel plated brass double pulley, $8.10, I/N: 4220768. 7 Zenith 25mm nickel plated brass pulley, $6.97, I/N: 4220764. 8 Zenith 89mm x 7.6mm zinc plated ceiling hooks, $3.99/pack of 2, I/N: 3951662. 9 Cabot’s ‘Cabothane Clear’ water based polyurethane timber varnish in Satin, $48.80/1L, I/N: 1522384. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings |

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Plant pick

Hedge your bet Find the perfect shrub to give your garden the most beautiful of border lines Lilly pilly ‘Resilience’ This popular Australian native has glossy green foliage, white fluffy flowers and a dense, compact habit. It’s fast growing, naturally reaching heights between 4m and 5m, but typically clipped to 2m to 3m in gardens, so it’s perfect for hedging or screening views. Most lilly pillies are susceptible to sap-sucking psyllids, but ‘Resilience’ is less susceptible to psyllids.

Lilly pilly ‘Resilience’

(Syzygium australe ‘Resilience’)

Trim once flowering has finished and enjoy bronze new growth, or allow the flowers to form pink non-toxic fruit.

Sweet viburnum

(Viburnum odoratissimum)

Large oval leaves are dotted with perfumed flowers. Deadhead with a hedge trimmer to prevent its toxic berries developing.

Coastal rosemary Despite its delicate appearance, this grows well in most climates and is tolerant of heat, drought, wind, frost and coastal conditions. Depending on the cultivar, it can grow between 0.5m-1.5m tall and will form a neat relaxed mound, but can be clipped into a tight, formal hedge if desired. Sasanqua camellia The flowers only last a few days, but this shrub continues to bud and bloom for many months. It can grow up to 2-3m tall and, because of its small leaves and dense habit, it’s ideal for narrow spaces. Soil needs to be slightly on the acidic side, with a pH of 5-6.5. Plant in full sun or part shade and mulch well. ◆

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Coastal rosemary

(Westringia fruticosa)

The small, tightly packed, narrow leaves and dainty white or mauve flowers of this native shrub make it ideal for hedges.

FOR MORE PLANTS, VISIT bunnings.com.au/plants

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Tip As a general rule of thumb, to work out the planting distance between shrubs or small trees, multiply the desired height of your hedge by 0.3

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Sasanqua camellia (Camellia sasanqua)

Beautiful white, red or pink silky blooms in varying forms are set against a backdrop of glossy dark-green foliage.

Words Tammy Huynh. Photography (Lilly pilly, sweet viburnum and coastal rosemary) iStock, (camellia) Getty Images.

Sweet viburnum An elegant shrub, sweet viburnum can grow up to 4m tall and can cope with a wide range of climate conditions. Once established, it’s tolerant of light frost. Plant in full sun or part shade, and feed with a slow-release fertiliser in spring. Water regularly, especially during warmer months, to promote faster growth.

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