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PETER MADDISON ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS

TV HOUSE EXCLUSIVES HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

Creative

Edit

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LIGHTING OPTIONS FOR YOUR HOME

FAVOURITE FINDS FOR INTERIORS

FEDERAL HOUSE

BY EDITION OFFICE Check out this award winner

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Limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Before buying insurance issued by AAI Limited trading as Suncorp Insurance read the PDS at suncorp.com.au. The TMD is also available.

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It’s safe to say that Cork Imports Australia has an extensive range of floor tiles, wall tiles and

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cladding that can add instant interest, not to

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CRE DI T S

PETER MADDISON ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS

TV HOUSE EXCLUSIVES HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

Creative

Edit

17

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LIGHTING OPTIONS FOR YOUR HOME

FAVOURITE FINDS FOR INTERIORS

FEDERAL HOUSE

BY EDITION OFFICE Check out this award winner

Issue 10.5 AUS $9.95* NZ $12 99 (Incl GST)

BONDI HOUSE Curves in all the right places

EDITORIAL Editor April Ossington Editor-at-Large Peter Maddison Deputy Editor Louise Smithers Sub-Editor Michelle Segal Contributors Peter Colquhoun, Chris Knierim, Crystal Amesbury, Nishi Amaratunga , Carrol Baker, Karsha Green Art Director Kate Podger Plans Anthony Allars COVER IMAGE Bondi House by Studio Johnston Photography by Brett Boardman ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS NSW Advertising Team Leader Anthea Hamilton P: (02) 9887 0311 M: 0414 319 271 E: ahamilton@umco.com.au Business Development Partnerships Manager David Strong P: (02) 9887 0623 M: 0411 424 072 E: dstrong@umco.com.au Vic, SA, Tas, Qld Advertising Manager Natalie Grosso M: 0420 477 422 E: ngrosso@umco.com.au Vic Kitchens, Bathrooms & Heating Specialist John Oliver P: (03) 9694 6430 M: 0417 316 820 E: joliver@umco.com.au Advertising Production Brendan Alder Advertising Art Director Martha Rubazewicz

Chairman/CEO Prema Perera Publisher Janice Williams Chief Financial Officer Vicky Mahadeva Associate Publisher Emma Perera Circulation Business Development Manager Mark McTaggart Creative Director Kate Podger This magazine is printed on paper produced in a mill that meets Environmental Management System ISO14001. Grand Designs Australia issue 10.5 is published by Universal Magazines, Unit 5, 6-8 Byfield Street, North Ryde NSW 2113. Phone: (02) 9805 0399, Fax: (02) 9805 0714. Melbourne office, Level 1, 150 Albert Street, South Melbourne Vic 3205. Phone: (03) 9694 6444, Fax: (03) 9699 7890. Printed in Singapore by Times Printers, timesprinters.com. Retail distribution: Gordon and Gotch, Australia. Distributed in Singapore and Malaysia by CARKIT (FE), Singapore, Phone: 65 62821 960. This book is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission. Enquiries should be addressed to the publishers. The publishers believe all the information supplied in this book to be correct at the time of printing. They are not, however, in a position to make a guarantee to this effect and accept no liability in the event of any information proving inaccurate. Prices, addresses and phone numbers were, after investigation, and to the best of our knowledge and belief, up to date at the time of printing, but the shifting sands of time may change them in some cases. It is not possible for the publishers to ensure that advertisements which appear in this publication comply with the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) and the Australian Consumer Law. The responsibility must therefore be on the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisements for publication. While every endeavour has been made to ensure complete accuracy, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. * Recommended retail price ISSN 2200 – 2197 Copyright © Universal Magazines MMXXII ACN 003 026 944 umco.com.au Please pass on or recycle this magazine.

Grand Designs® is a trademark of, and is licensed by, FremantleMedia Australia. All rights reserved.

Grand Designs® is produced by FremantleMedia Australia Pty Ltd for Foxtel Management Pty Ltd. ©2019 FremantleMedia Australia Pty Ltd. Licensed

by FremantleMedia Australia. All rights reserved.

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Food & Wine Preserved with Passion With its timeless and elegant design, Monolith becomes the highlight of every kitchen. Discover pure perfection at home.liebherr.com.au

Monolith. Cooling Redefined.

CON TENT S

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REGULARS 28 Credits 34 Editor’s Letter 36 Editor-at-Large CREATIVE EDIT 40 Social 42 Book Club 44 Architecture Snapshot 46 What’s Hot 52 Fave 5 60 Win Big IN PROFILE 54 Toby Simm 56 Artefact Industries 58 Jeska Valk SPECIAL FEATURE 64 Designer Kids EXPERT ADVICE 218 Expert in Focus 220 Architecture 222 Building 224 Ask our Architect

Contents

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ISSUE #10.5

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM by appointment only Unit 4 / 4A Huntley Street, Alexandria NSW 2015 Phone: 02 9693 2626

alexandriatiles.com.au ITALIAN LUXURY TILES - PREMIUM EUROPEAN OAK TIMBER - EXCLUSIVE NATURAL STONE - FIBONACCI STONE TERRAZZO

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212 HOUSES 82 Hawkesbury Chapel TV House Chapel conversion 94 Federal House Fade to black 105 GDA Mag House Of The Year Awards 2021 The final three finalists 112 10 Fold House Ten-fold roof plane 126 Bondi House Sculptural copper 138 Cummings House Future-roof 150 Coleridge House Cottage makeover

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS 165 La Vie en Rose 168 A Mint Renovation 170 Classic in White 172 Limited Space …

Endless Design 176 Black, White & Terrazzo OUTDOORS 199 Coolum

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Made in Germany since 1923.

TIMELESS ELEGANCE. Bild V.

TO DISCOVER MORE CONTACT INDI IMPORTS P 03 9416 7037 E info@indimports.com W indimports.com /Indi Imports indimports

G RAND DES IGN S EDITOR’S LETTER

From the Editor

Mentionables Federal House by Edition Office. edition-office.com Slouch velvet sofa. earlysettler.com.au. Nobu burnt teak root coffee table. cocorepublic.com.au

n recent years, modern family living has been reinvented. Due to COVID-19, we had to to spend more time together at home and, as a result, our homes are much more kitted out than they were before. Our play feature showcases the things that modern families love, from pools and spas to recreation rooms and play equipment. We are also more focused on style — and that means style in every room of the home, even the baby’s room.

Speaking of babies, our designer kids feature this issue shows how you can make your home kid-friendly without compromising on style. Forget gaudy primary colours, plastic toys and cartoon graphics — we take a look at the latest products for the modern parent, from chic kids’ sofas to innovative storage solutions.

Lighting is a very important part of the home, but sometimes it’s hard to know where to start. In our third feature, we take a squiz at the very latest in designer lighting — the fittings, globes, connections and more.

Projects this issue include Federal House by Edition Office, which won New House Over 200 Square Metres in the 2021 Houses Awards. This tall, dark and handsome specimen certainly commands attention as it looks out over the serene Federal, NSW, hinterland. At the heart of the home lies a subterranean pool linked to a planted void. Upon entry, this void allows a glimpse through ferns to the still body of water beneath. The pool looks out over the landscape, mirroring the sky above — it’s breathtaking.

Characterised by its juxtaposition of dark and warm spaces, this home pushes the boundaries of contemporary architecture. Take a look for yourself in our project section.

April

APRIL OSSINGTON EDITOR

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A PROUD HISTORY OF CUSTOM FABRICATION For nearly 40 years innovation and quality has been our driving passion.

Rylock design and specify a range of high performance product solutions.

AUSTRALIAN MADE AND OWNED. Designed by Personalised Home Designs | Built by Aaron Martin Construction | Photos by Art Department Creative

rylock.com.au

G RAND DES IGN S EDITOR-AT-LARGE

From Peter Maddison

o much has changed in the 10 years that I’ve been Editor-at-Large of this magazine. The first episodes of Grand Designs Australia were all about alternative building materials such as pre-cast concrete and prefabricated housing, with an interest in raw materials, experimentation in form and response to location. Take a look at Very Small House from Season 1 Episode 2 and Prebuilt House from Season 1 Episode 4.

Since then, however, climate change has been in the headlines. Creating homes with the smallest possible environmental footprint is a common aspiration. People know the world is changing and both homeowners and the industry are morphing into a new type of architecture. See Mystery Bay Blades from Season 9 Episode 1 and Coburg Wedge from Season 9 Episode 8 (the home that burnt down when it was almost complete; it has since been rebuilt).

Our government is struggling to come to terms with net zero by 2050, yet I see the architecture profession and consumers alike willing themselves to achieve this much earlier. There has been a whole new language developed around the building and design industry to try to make clear how we should go about putting buildings together that respond to this. You can’t really have a one-word summary of how to make a building net zero, because there are so many parts that make up a house.

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Here is my shopping list to try to help you navigate the maze of buzz words, jargon and acronyms that go into making housing 10 years on from when I started. » Sustainability » LED A nebulous aspiration, often Light-Emitting Diode. See the light used as a splashy headline » Section J BCA without meaning AKA Building Code Australia — every new house in Australia » Carbon Neutral must be tested to achieve a six-star Balancing the books; stop flying energy rating in planes, plant trees » Lifecycle Costs » Fossil Fuel The real cost to the planet of the Finite resource. A habit we things we consume. Think cradle must kick to grave » Repurposed, Recycled, Upcycled » Carbon Miles Consume less and reuse rather than bury This talks to one’s conscience when consuming goods that travel » Clean Energy around the world to get to you This is the good stuff — wind, solar, tidal » Embodied Energy Have you ever thought about how » Heat Recovery much power goes into making Don’t throw Mr Conditioned cement? That’s what it is Air out of your home. Pass the temperature baton on to Mr Fresh » Low-Carbon Footprint Air coming in How deep a footprint do you want to leave? Put a jumper on instead » Heat Exchanger of using heating The device that makes Mr Cool and Mr Hot shake hands » Net Zero Essential to achieve to save » Greenhouse Gas our planet. Greenhouse gas This is the bad stuff clogging the equilibrium atmosphere, resulting in global warming. Walk instead of drive » Net Zero Mk II A bad politician’s greatest nemesis » Global Warming and a good politician’s best friend See above. The result of greenhouse gases » Passive House Passive house aggressively hangs » Greenstar Energy Rating onto its own body heat. Insulation, A method of assessing a building’s insulation, insulation performance environmentally, considering all its energy, » Biophilic Design operating and environmental costs A design approach to make one over its life feel good, which has now been proven by science to affect humans » NatHERS psychologically and physically Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme. Another energy rating » Solar Collectors tool similar to Greenstar Equivalent of putting coins in a piggy bank. See PV » Solar Hot Water » PV A panel on the roof that uses the sun to heat water. Can be stored in Photovoltaic is the conversion a tank when the sun doesn’t shine of the sun’s rays through silicon that creates a charge. One day all » Tesla (Batteries) building fabric will be producing A worldwide phenomenon that PV power is transforming the storage and reuse of power, yet whose inventor » CLT is, for some odd reason, sending Cross Laminated Timber. The celebrities into space building material of the 21st century. Half its weight is stored carbon for life Of course, Wikipedia might disagree with some of my definitions, but the crux of the matter is that many of these concepts were not talked about, nor did they guide design 10 years ago. Our world is changing and we need to understand these terms, not just for our homes, but for our children’s sake.

PREMIUM SOUND A D D R E S S 7 0 -7 6 S T K I L DA R OA D, S T K I L DA V I C 3 1 8 2 T E L . 0 3 9 5 3 4 2 6 7 3 | W W W. P R E M I U M S O U N D . C O M . A U

Creative

Edit Take a look at what’s happening in the world of architecture and interior design 40 Get Social 42 Book Club 44 Architecture Snapshot 46 Creative Edit 48 What’s Hot 52 Fave 5 54 In Profile 60 Win Big 64 Special Feature: Designer Kids

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A LI MITED ED ITION C OLL ECTION BY D YL AN C OO PE R CURATED BY CARL EN E DU FFY A n a r t i s t i c s l i ce o f A us tr al i a n histo r y – a vai l a bl e e x cl u si v el y t hr o ugh L eft B ank Ar t Gr oup o nli ne

leftbankartgroup.com.au

DES IG N FO R U M

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Get Social Click to explore the wonders of our architectural environment E D I T E D BY LO U I S E S M I T H E R S

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01/ Sydney Open 2021 Held over the weekend of 5–7 November, Sydney Open 2021 offered a curated program of online and unique outdoor experiences aimed at exploring Sydney’s cultural and architectural heritage. Engaging with ideas on the city’s identity and sustainability, Sydney Open also focused on First Nations perspectives and featured live-streamed panel talks, self-guided audio walking tours, podcasts, expert-led virtual tours of significant buildings and more. slm.is/open

02/ Iris Bar, Switzerland The Circle is the largest commercial development project in Switzerland.

Located just a stone’s throw from Kloten airport, the impressive real estate complex designed by Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto covers an area of 180,000sqm. Inside the Circle Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport Hotel — the first of the two exclusive hotels inaugurated in March 2021 — stands the Iris Bar. It is an elegant location with a sophisticated mood whose star is the scenographic blue agate bar counter, a custom-made creation by Prisma, featuring highly functional elements, a unique design and a strong visual impact. Photography

by Luca Girardini. prismaitalia.com 03/ The Rocks Laneway, Western Australia On Friday 20 September 2021, the brand-new Rocks Laneway project was revealed to the community for the very first time. The Rocks Laneway is a city-to-foreshore pathway incorporating laneways, streets and the original Rocks store. Through retention of existing features, historical interpretation and creative expression, it now sets a new precedent for regional infrastructure and urban renewal investment and was a Good Design Award 2021 winner for urban architecture. Be sure to check it out if you’re ever in Geraldton. Designed

by Taylor Robinson and Chaney Broderick with UDLA. trcb.com.au 04/ Ibiza Pendant Light up your life with a statement pendant that will crane the necks of all who gaze upon it. Handmade in France, the Ibiza pendant in raffia and black metal is finished with a scalloped edge detail that is both charming and aesthetically pleasing. Pop one in your living room or make a real statement with a set-up of three pendants hanging over your kitchen bench. tigmitrading.com.au

F: facebook.com/granddesignsaustraliamagazine I: instagram.com/granddesignsau T: twitter.com/granddesausmag P: pinterest.com/granddesignsau

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Wonder Stunning Morris

wallpaperdirect.com Make your home your own Willow Bough / Strawberry Thief / Fruit / Willow / The Brook / Golden Lily

R EV IEWS LIVING WITH COLOR REBECCA ATWOOD CROWN | $54.99 In this vibrant, lush home-decor lookbook and manual, textile designer Rebecca Atwood explains how to create a colour palette, teaching readers to find what resonates with their personal aesthetic and bring the magic of colour into their homes. Tour beautifully designed houses to see some of the most interesting uses of the rainbow and to gather inspiration for your own spaces.

Book Club Expand your horizons with …

E D I T E D BY LO U I S E S M I T H E R S

DÉCOR GALORE LAURA DE BARRA TRANSWORLD IRELAND | $43.99 The No.1-bestselling author of Gaff Goddess returns to show us how to transform our homes with style.

In Decor Galore, Laura takes us room by room with genius and stunning tips for how to revamp your home on any budget. Whether you want to maximise storage, create layered lighting or install a new kitchen, Decor Galore has got you covered. Creative, stylish and incredibly practical, Laura will change how you view your space and open up a world of new possibilities.

CREATE SPACE DILLY CARTER DORLING KINDERSLEY | $24.99 Streamline your possessions with simple sorting and storage solutions and discover the mental health benefits of living in a clutterfree home. Create Space shows you how taking steps to clear and simplify your living area can also clear your mind, improve your relationships and enhance your wellbeing.

This room-by-room guide to organising and decluttering your home is packed with ideas, advice, tips and techniques that are practical and functional, as well as beautiful.

NEW RURAL INGRID WEIR | HARDIE GRANT | $60 New Rural: Where to Find It and How to Create It is a beautiful interiors book for anyone who craves a “tree change” or touches of rural magic and “cottagecore” in their home and life. This stunning photo-filled hardback is both inspiration and a guide for those dreaming of moving to the country, as well as an exploration of a new way of living that combines the space and freedom of rural existence with the connections and opportunities of the modern world.

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THROUGH A DESIGNER’S EYE MATTHEW PATRICK SMYTH MONACELLI PRESS | $110 A sumptuous presentation of impeccably designed classic interiors by Matthew Patrick Smyth, who is renowned for elegant, sophisticated rooms that combine sumptuous fabrics, well-selected antiques and contemporary comfort. Here he reveals his design process, emphasising his commitment to exploring the world through travel and in the imagination of the theatre, and to recording scenes and vignettes in photographs.

Western Australia’s oldest and most trusted boutique manufacturer of quality clay bricks and pavers Supplying to the Australian and International market since 1929. Architects, home builders and renovators.

Natural kiln bricks and pavers, including custom made and brick matching.

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geraldtonbrick.com.au

CR E ATI VE EDIT 01

01

COOPWORTH, TASMANIA

ARCHITECTURE

snapshot Standout architecture that goes above and beyond

Nestled in the rural surrounds of Bruny Island, Coopworth is a contemporary interpretation of a country farmhouse. The footprint of the house is consciously constrained to maximise arable land, yet it maintains generosity in its thoughtful internal arrangement. Frameless windows are pushed to the edge of the floorplate to embrace wild winds and rain — at once immersed in the beauty and brutality of the weather while remaining safely protected from it. Photography by Dianna Snape. fmdarchitects.com.au

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NYUL NYUL PACKING SHED, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

E D I T E D BY LO U I S E S M I T H E R S

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The Nyul Nyul Packing Shed is a purpose-built partially prefabricated timber structure installed at Twin Lakes on the Dampier Peninsula near Broome for the harvesting and processing of indigenous foods on Country. Designed to withstand cyclonic weather conditions, it provides a cool natural working environment to support the Nyul Nyul community’s native harvest business. Nyul Nyul Community Packing Shed received a prestigious Good Design Award Winner 2021 accolade in the Social Impact category in recognition for outstanding design and innovation. Project team: Bruno Dann, SJB, The Orana Foundation, Promena Projects and van der Meer Consulting. sjb.com.au

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SUGI HOUSE, NEW ZEALAND

Sugi House is a Japanese-inspired tiny home designed by Condon Scott Architects.

The cosy holiday house in Wanaka, NZ, reflects the considered, minimalist nature of Japanese houses. The abode is clad in characteristic cedar shingles and built to withstand the region’s climatic conditions. The house and the areas of glazing are oriented to maximise solar gain, with minimal openings on the remaining sides of the house to preserve the thermal envelope. Photography by Simon Devitt. condonscott.nz

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LAUREL GROVE, MELBOURNE

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TATE, VICTORIA

With an anchoring presence on Cotham Road in Kew, Tate is a building unique in its conscious effort to simultaneously counterbalance and assimilate with the heritageslanted vernacular of its locale. Contrary to some of its parallel 1980s versions, this creambrick multi-residential building is designed for endurance. The form is sharp and contrasted by the textural materiality of the bricks used for the facade, while soft interiors ooze modern 05 refinement. Photography by Emily Bartlett. cs-a.com.au

Designed by Kirsten Johnstone Architecture, Laurel Grove celebrates rammed earth, concrete and timber. Australian timbers were applied throughout the home and rammed earth blade walls form deep reveals to create protected interior living spaces without compromising access to natural light. These walls offer further protection from the western sun due to the inherent thermal mass properties of rammed earth, along with the burnished concrete slab. Photography by Tatjana Plitt. kjarchitecture.com.au

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The Collar pendant by Sebastian Herkner. cultdesign.com.au

WHAT ’ S HOT Circa olive planter. pillowtalk.com.au

Femme flower vase in terracotta. beysis.com

Deep-olive hues and warm terracotta tones are a match made in heaven, an earthy, rich and slightly regal combination that is a reminder of nature’s beauty ED I TE D BY LOUI S E SM IT HER S

Rajast clay side table. earlysettler.com.au

Stitch velvet sofa. earlysettler.com.au

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Chandelier No 56, olive green. rocollection.dk

Olive Garden ceramic jar table lamp. earlysettler.com.au

Olive & terracotta

I N S PO A down-to-earth aesthetic with rich, natural hues Early Settler. earlysettler.com.au

The Shorty in olive

by Mustard Made. norsu.com.au

W&S Chubby vase. hayshop.com.au

Palissade Cone table. hayshop.com.au Frank occasional chair. earlysettler.com.au Halftime chair in terracotta red. hayshop.com.au

GRAND DESIGNS

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&Tradition Flowerpot VP9 portable table lamp in Signal Green. Available at Cult Design. cultdesign.com.au

WHAT ’S HOT Eames® Hang it All in walnut and black.

Available at Living Edge. livingedge.com.au

Clover Green 50cm cushion. bonnieandneil.com.au

QT chair by Stellar Works.

Available at Living Edge. livingedge.com.au

CRYSTAL AMESBURY crystalamesbury.com

LouLou vase in amber. maisonbalzac.com

Vitra plywood mobile, Model A by Charles and Ray Eames for Vitra.

Available at Space Furniture. spacefurniture.com.au

Mid-century MOOD Is there anything more iconic than a MidCentury Modern aesthetic? It was a time in design where simplicity was expected while playfulness was encouraged. Bring some of that quirky character into your home with this curated collection of classics E D I T E D BY C RY S TA L A M E S B U RY

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e at s® Li H o v in u g E se B dg i r d e. li v i n w in ge alnu dg t . e.c Av om aila .au ble

Ea

m

OK pendant in yellow by Konstantin Grcic for FLOS. Available at Euroluce. euroluce.com.au

Esther bookshelf, tall. castlery.com

Moller #78 smoked oak chair. Available at Great Dane Furniture. greatdanefurniture.com

Olivia three-seat sofa in solid walnut with Ocean Blue fabric. ico nbydesign.com.au

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SPONSORE D P RO DUCT

Designed by Baastudio Architecture, built by Saunders Building, photography by Caco Photography

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN Turn an everyday staircase into a grand masterpiece

S

taircases are a major design feature in any multi-storey house. Not only are they a structural element connecting the different levels of a home, but they also play an important part in how the house feels and functions. If you want to turn an entranceway into a grand statement or simply create a continuous flow from one level to the next, Intrim has the timber mouldings to turn a plain staircase into a focal point.

Intrim was founded in 1993 by the Quinsey family in Picton, NSW, and has grown to become one of Australia’s leaders in finely crafted, quality timber mouldings, skirtings, architraves and handrails for residential homes and commercial buildings. The company’s customers vary across all sectors, from business clients such as architects, interior designers, builders and carpenters to residential homeowners who engage trades and DIY renovators.

Intrim recently collaborated with Three Birds Renovations, Natalee Bowen from Indah Island and Naomi Findlay, to name a few.

When planning your staircase, first consider the shape: straight, curved, L-shaped, U-shaped

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or spiral? There are many different design options to finish your walls, skirting boards, handrails and stair treads. Intrim Mouldings has a vast selection of timber mouldings and timber handrails to achieve your style. Take a look at some popular styles: Hamptons Wainscoting To achieve the ever-popular Hamptons look, try Intrim Wainscoting, teamed with tall Intrim skirting on the walls offset by white stair risers with dark-timber stair treads and handrail.

Wainscoting can be full height or under a dado or chair rail.

Classic Coastal In this style, lighter timber tones are complemented by Intrim board and battenstyle wainscoting or Intrim VJ Board Pro wall panelling. Handrails are generally kept white to match the walls.

Modern Hamptons Here, the symmetry of crisp white Intrim wall wainscoting using modern timber inlay mouldings adds class and elegance. When teamed with glass and contrasting stair treads, it makes for a modern aesthetic.

Contemporary When less is more, try a simple Intrim Shadowline® skirting that steps up your staircase. This will create a fine detail while remaining flush to the wall, also providing the wall protection.

Curved or spiral This is a very hot style in architecture at the moment and will suit both modern contemporary and glamorous luxe homes.

A statement spiral staircase can feature curved skirting and curved timber mouldings for wainscoting for a luxe aesthetic, or use individual concave profiles for a more modern look.

LED handrails Lighting design is important for function and style and wall lights can make a big impact on the finished look. Intrim Mouldings has a range of handrails that feature LED strips built into the underside of the timber rail. Shining light down from underneath, the handrail casts the light where you need it — on the stairs below the handrail — making it both safe and stylish.

When planning your staircase, visit the Intrim Mouldings website to explore the range of timber mouldings, skirting boards, wall panelling and handrails to complement your staircase. You can order free samples online or browse the vast collections and project galleries. Intrim is Australian owned and manufactures to order in its Australian manufacturing plant, shipping to your site ready for your builder or carpenter to install. intrimmouldings.com.au

MAKING INTERIORS

CM16B Cornice Mould

r a l u c a t c Sp e SK323 Coffered Ceiling

SK132 Architrave

CR69 Chair Rail

SK132 Skirting IN01 Inlay Mould

Timber Mouldings | Skirting | Architraves | VJ Board Pro | Wainscoting | Timber Handrails DĂŬĞ LJŽƵƌ /ŶƚĞƌŝŽƌ ^ƉĞĐƚĂĐƵůĂƌ ǁŝƚŚ ĮŶĞůLJ ĐƌĂŌĞĚ /Ŷƚƌŝŵ dŝŵďĞƌ DŽƵůĚŝŶŐƐ͘ ƌĞĂƚĞ ĨĞĂƚƵƌĞ ǁĂůů ƉĂŶĞůƐ͕ tĂŝŶƐĐŽƟŶŐ͕ ŽīĞƌĞĚ ĐĞŝůŝŶŐƐ Žƌ ĨƌĂŵĞ LJŽƵƌ ĚŽŽƌƐ ĂŶĚ ǁŝŶĚŽǁƐ ǁŝƚŚ ƐƚLJůŝƐŚ ĂƌĐŚŝƚƌĂǀĞƐ ĂŶĚ ŵĂƚĐŚŝŶŐ ƐŬŝƌƟŶŐ͘ ǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ŝŶ Ă ůĂƌŐĞ ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ĚĞƐŝŐŶƐ͕ ƐŝnjĞƐ͕ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ ĂŶĚ ĮŶŝƐŚĞƐ͘ 'Ğƚ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶƐƉŝƌĂƟŽŶ ĨƌŽŵ ŽƵƌ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ ŐĂůůĞƌLJ͕ ŽƌĚĞƌ ĨƌĞĞ ƐĂŵƉůĞƐ͕ ƌĞƋƵĞƐƚ Ă ƋƵŽƚĞ Žƌ ŵĂŬĞ ĂŶ ĞŶƋƵŝƌLJ ĂŶĚ ůĞƚ ƵƐ ŚĞůƉ LJŽƵ ĐƌĞĂƚĞ LJŽƵƌ ĚƌĞĂŵ ŚŽŵĞ͘

intrimmouldings.com.au www.fsc.org ®

FSC C133356 The mark of responsible forestry

1800 622 081

FAVE 5 02

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CHERRY BY NIKA ZUPANC

With the generous strokes of Nika Zupanc’s pencil, the cherry fruit becomes a suspended ceiling lamp with an LED light bulb. Sporting irresistible curves, the Cherry polycarbonate suspended ceiling lamp is a provocative pendant: simultaneously useful and seductive. Made in Italy and referencing the instinct to grasp fruit directly from the tree, its voluptuous and fleshy appearance is captivating.

Available in metallic gold or silver finish. mondoluce.com

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BONBON SHADE 320

BY ANA KRAS

Inspired by her drawings, Ana Kras’ Bonbon lamp shades are hand-woven using an original technique to create beautifully textured, bespoke pieces that make as much of an impact switched off as they do switched on. Made in collaboration with HAY, Ana’s collection consists of nylon-wool yarn that is hand-woven around powder-coated steel frames. The hand-made approach to the design ensures each piece is slightly different in appearance and surface aesthetic. Available in a pendant variant, it would suit a variety of interior styles. hayshop.com.au

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MORAVIAN STAR

Pendants Hang around to see our top five suspended lighting fixtures that will illuminate your home and see your style credentials skyrocket E D I T E D BY LO U I S E S M I T H E R S

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According to legend, the Moravian stars were originally created as a geometry lesson for boys attending the Moravian School in Germany and in the early 19th century, the Moravian star became a Christmas holiday decoration. With its strong geometric form, textured metal finish and antique mirror glass, the Moravian has been reimagined into this attention-grabbing pendant available in three finishes including gilded iron, aged iron and burnished silver leaf. The lights would look spectacular when arranged in clusters in a large void area or vaulted ceiling space. montauklightingco.com

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BRIGHT BAROCCO BY JONAS HOEJGAARD

Made from glass and brass, this pendant is full of class! Exploring the process of “solidification” and looking at how we perceive solidity and liquidity, the Barocco pendant is created by blowing air while shifting air temperature (not much different from an icicle formed by weather conditions and gravity).

The Bright Barocco lamp seeks to preserve the link to its original liquid form by appearing to be frozen in the middle of the process. Barocco, which means a pearl of irregular shape, is perfectly imperfect. Each Barocco pendant is uniquely customised and comes with a certificate signed by the glassblower. nordic-tales.com

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OI SOI OI COLLECTION

A collection of silk pendants representing clean and minimalist Scandinavian style, Oi Soi Oi is inspired by both Nordic and Asian cultures and the fusion is sublime. Emitting a soft glow, the collection is available in a range of colours, sizes and shapes, and our personal favourite is the levitating UFO. Danish-designed and handmade in Vietnam, the silk materiality offers subtle Asian undertones that will catch the eye of all who bask in its light. tigmitrading.com.au

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I N P RO F I LE Wildflowers by Claudio Kirac

Left Bank Art Group Welcome to Left Bank Art Group, where managing director Toby Simm helps infuse Aussie homes with quality art prints WO R D S LO U I S E S M I T H E R S

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rom humble beginnings in 1989 as a “mum and pop” frame shop on the Gold Coast, Left Bank Art Group has firmly established itself as a leading fi ne art printing and picture framing supplier to artists and the interiors industry.

“I love the partnership between my business and my artist customers’ businesses,” enthuses managing director Toby Simm. “I love that I get to assist in growing not only my business, but hundreds of artists’ businesses, too. The best thing is that it is art that we are selling, so it’s never repetitive or the same. It’s such a privilege to be around all the beautiful artwork our clients create every day.”

As a printing business with a focus on quality reproduction art, this isn’t your average “paper and canvas” operation. Having invested in industry-leading equipment, Left Bank can also print on wallpapers, tiles, glass, timber, aluminium and acoustic panels. The company’s clientele includes some of Australia’s most prolifi c contemporary artists, including Jai Vasicek, Brad Turner, Nardurna, Daisy Hill and Georgie Wilson. Blending abstract compositions with botanical, architectural and quintessentially Australian figurative elements, Georgie Wilson’s works are extremely popular. “The works of First Nations artists Brad Turner, Nardurna and Daisy Hill are contemporary, using traditional techniques with a modern colour palette, telling stories and educating through their artwork,” elaborates Toby.

“Jai Vasicek’s use of colour is like nothing I have ever seen before — with every series he changes the palette and he nails it every single time.”

The process of acquiring new prints begins with meeting with the artist, where they are offered advice and consultation on what Left Bank can provide. “From there we will usually capture their original artworks digitally on our world-class flatbed scanner, allowing us to have the best-quality file available for printing,” explains Toby.

“This digital file is then printed onto beautiful cotton rag (museum-grade paper) or canvas, using archival inks. We’ll frame these prints in a contemporary fashion, package them up for transport and send them around Australia (and the world) to the artist’s clients.”

With a background in graphic design, Toby went straight to work in the print industry after graduating with a Diploma of Graphic Design in 2003. After managing a print and copy shop and travelling to Canada for two years, Toby returned to Australia and soon began lending a hand with his parents’ business. “We decided to purchase a large-format printer and a small scanner so we could print artworks on canvas and paper,” recalls Toby. “We set it up in their garage and for a couple of years that’s where I worked from. As the demand for printing through their business grew, we decided it was time I formally joined them so we moved the equipment out of the garage and into their workshop. That was around 2011 and since then we’ve continued to grow the print business and add new machinery, so much so that it’s 50 per cent of the business these days.”

Expansion plans are underway for Left Bank, with the company recently acquiring a print shop in Melbourne.

“I’m aiming to have production facilities set up in a few major cities around Australia so we can grow the Left Bank brand nationally, and also provide our customers with excellent timeframes as a result of local production.” leftbankartgroup.com.au

Jellurgal 1 and Jellurgal 2

by Brad Turner

Desert Blooms by Kate Owen

TOBY SAYS “I love that I get to assist in growing not only my business, but hundreds of artists’ businesses, too … It’s such a privilege to be around all the beautiful artwork our clients create every day”

Burn Off I by Nardurna

Desert Breeze by Grace Brown

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Artefact Industries Light up your life with a precious Artefact for your home WO R D S LO U I S E S M I T H E R S

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rtefact Industries is a 100 per cent Australianowned product design company specialising in Australian-made lighting. “We believed that there was an unmet appetite for locally made lighting that was environmentally responsible and delivered on quality, flexibility and reliability,” says managing director Michael Dernaj. “Our intention is to create the ‘wow’ element in an interior space by creating lighting products that combine beautiful aesthetics with superior performance.”

Joining Michael at Artefact Industries is design director Kate Steele, who holds an Interior & Exhibition Design Honours Degree from Swinburne University. “During my time at uni I was selected to study for a year’s placement at Brighton University in the United Kingdom,” she shares. “Studying abroad was a pivotal experience in cementing my interest in light and design.”

Michael, on the other hand, holds a Bachelor of Industrial Design from RMIT. “My final-year project was a furniture piece which was selected to be exhibited in Milan’s SaloneSatellite and this really encouraged me to pursue a career in the design industry,” says Michael, who also credits his family’s custom joinery business with being the original catalyst for his interest in fine craftsmanship and design.

The pair met while working for the same design company and the creative chemistry was electric from the get-go. “We had a natural rapport — ideas flowed easily between us and we appreciated each other’s work ethic,” remembers Michael.

“We also share a unique sense of humour and view of the world, which has helped us get through some of the more challenging aspects of starting a business from scratch.”

When they launched Artefact in 2014, both were working out of their respective garages while holding down part-time jobs to keep themselves financially afloat. Things started to turn around in 2015 when they moved into their first premises in Rowville. With a healthy mix of fabricators and suppliers within a half-hour radius, the location allowed the business to keep the majority of its manufacturing local. Today, Artefact is still based in Rowville (though in a different location) and boasts a team of six. Working with some of the country’s leading architectural, interior and lighting design firms, Michael and Kate have seen the business blossom and achieve success in the commercial market, namely the workspace, event and hospitality sectors.

“More recently we’ve seen a significant uptake of our work in the residential design space, which is great because we really enjoy having personal contact with the end users of our products,” notes Kate.

The design process for any given piece often begins with the technical lighting components and their potential effects.

“We then carefully layer and combine materials and finishes to create a beautiful housing that works intrinsically with its internal electronics,” explains Michael. “We are passionate about flexibility in our design and a large part of our work is customising our core range of products or creating completely bespoke lighting to bring our clients’ vision to light.”

Of all Michael and Kate’s lighting designs, it was their first that is still the business’s most popular. Named the T_Mini Track Light, it is compact, functional, honest and packs a punch. At the time of its release it was one of the first track lights (typically “invisible” and purely functional products) on the market that offered a choice of unique finishes. Another personal favourite is the current Globe collection. “It really embodies the driving foundation of our design approach — ‘beautiful aesthetics with market-leading performance’,” says Michael. “At a glance the

MICHAEL SAYS “We had a natural rapport — ideas flowed easily between us and we appreciated each other’s work ethic … We also share a unique sense of humour and view of the world, which has helped us get through some of the more challenging aspects of starting a business from scratch”

Globe range appears very decorative and timeless, however the fixture embodies cutting-edge LED technology and control. The solid machined ‘globe’ diffuser is shatter-proof for durability and perfectly distributes the concealed LED light utilising an edge lighting technique. We offer a custom lighting control package where we can map a special light show across the Globe clusters. This allows for the light levels of each diffuser to be individually programmed to suit the project, creating a beautiful and ephemeral lighting experience.”

Looking at releasing new products this year, Michael and Kate are constantly working on ideas for new pieces, so much so that they hope to upgrade or expand their premises to include more space for design research and development, as well as in-house fabrication. “We want to continue collaborations with a diverse range of creative partners so that we can enhance our ability to bring our customers’ vision to reality.” artefactindustries.com

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IN P R O F I LE

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Jeska Valk Intensely feminine and stunningly detailed, the portraiture of award-winning painter Jeska Valk is unforgettable WO R D S LO U I S E S M I T H E R S

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ntimate and powerful, the subjects portrayed in Jeska Valk’s work, which are predominantly created using oil paint on linen, are impossible to look away from.

Lace is a recurring motif throughout Jeska’s body of work.

Her love of lace was inherited from her mother. “The femininity that presents itself in my work is inspired by my mother and her creativity,” says Jeska. “As a sewer she fell in love with lace, making many garments in her time, and these pieces are used throughout my work.” Her admiration for lace blossomed further during a trip to France with her mum. Here, Jeska learnt about the history of Europe’s Master Painters and she quickly became enamoured with 16th and 17th century Renaissance and Baroque artists such as Titian, Vermeer, Rembrandt and Frans Pourbus. “It was during this time that lace first arose in Europe. Its complexity and intricacy told a story more than any other fabric,” explains Jeska. “Art quickly became my addiction and I am endlessly fascinated by the detail, interpretation and view the masters told of times past.”

Lace is used symbolically in Jeska’s work. It appears delicate and fragile while inherently strong, which underlies the character of her subjects. Often partially concealed, these subjects portray our tendency to avoid revealing all of ourselves to others. Jeska’s artistic endeavours have not only led to the creation of brilliant art, they also acted as the catalyst for deep personal change within the artist. “When I began creating pieces of this intensity, painting was a state of meditation to escape the nervous spikes that would occur as a symptom of vague epileptic seizures. Years later, I am lucky to say that my seizures have greatly subsided, but painting in this manner still has a relaxing feeling where hours can go by and I’m totally unaware of it.”

Jeska has achieved the dream of most artists: the flow of commissions has become consistent enough that she is able to focus on her passion as an artist. “It really is a dream come true to be a professional artist,” she enthuses. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to paint incredible people within our community and across Australia, as well as the plethora of talented artists I’ve met. Painting really has changed my life.

Being able to share my personal story through my art has also been a very cathartic experience.”

Jeska is exclusively represented by Art Lovers Australia Gallery and online at artloversaustralia.com.au

COM PE T IT ION

WIN BIG MORE THAN

$10,000

GIVEAWAY!

BANKSIA ELEMENTS FRAMED CANVAS PRINT 76CM X 102CM Artist Ani Ipradjian’s creativity is driven by a passion for art — it is something that comes from within and is a part of who she is.

The Banksia Elements collection symbolises rebirth and new beginnings. The Banksia flower itself is amazing; within each flower there are thousands of others that make up a single flower. They are a vital part of the food chain in the Australian bush. RRP $755. artloversaustralia.com.au

Love getting your hands on free stuff?

Who doesn’t?! This issue, we are giving our wonderful readers the chance to win one of 10 amazing prizes

In this issue of Grand Designs Australia, we’ve got 10 prizes to give away to 10 lucky readers, from stylish furniture and trendy art for your wall to cutting-edge cooling solutions and lighting. For a chance to win one of these home must-haves, all you have to do is visit completehome.com.au/win-big and write, in 25 words or less, why you think this issue of the magazine is a great read. Good luck! Terms and conditions are available online at completehome.com.au

MORSØ IGNIS FIREPIT The Morsø Ignis firepit makes you feel at home with the pleasure of outdoor cooking. The flames crackle as the Ignis emanates a decadent warmth and a delicious aroma that only a real wood fire can bring. Owing to its clean lines and simple, functional design, this beautiful firepit is a versatile addition to your garden or patio and also perfect for camping.

The Ignis is a natural meeting place and creates cosy dancing flames that promote calm, contemplation and comfort. It is made from cast iron, with a marine-grade resistant coating, so it can stand outside all year round if you use and care for it properly. The grill grates fit securely into the pit, creating the perfect grill. RRP $610. Includes delivery up to $100 anywhere in Australia (delivery is not redeemable for cash). castworks.com.au

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HAIKU I SERIES (BLACK OR WHITE) A powerful combination of design, performance and technology, the Haiku I was designed to maximise airflow to keep you comfortable all year round. From its long-lasting finishes to its energy-efficient motors, every Haiku is the result of an unequalled dedication to quality at every step of the manufacturing process. Available in several stylish designs, Haiku I was handcrafted in the US and delivers whisper-quiet comfort to where you need it most. RRP $1245. bigassfans.com/au/for-home

SET OF IVO PLANT STANDS IN BLACK (S,M,L) Inspired by the shape of rattan, the Ivo collection from the Vincent Sheppard Garden range is one of those designs that translates indoor cosiness into outdoor furniture. Thanks to the sturdy material, you’ll be able to enjoy these beautiful pieces for years to come. The Ivo plant stands are ideal to give your terrace some texture and height. RRP $500. cotswoldfurniture.com. au/en

KING OF THE HILL PRINT Left Bank Art Group has partnered with Carlene Duffy, Channel 9 lifestyle presenter and director of Cedar and Suede interiors studio, to introduce the Feels Like Home Collection. This limited-edition print collection by artist Dylan Cooper features eight iconic Australian scenes — 30 prints available per scene, per size, hand-signed including a Certificate of Authenticity. Inspiration for the collection was drawn from nostalgic glimpses of urban locales reinterpreted for the modern day.

One of our readers has a chance to win a large framed print from the collection titled King of the Hill. RRP $595. leftbankartgroup.com.au

SYDNEY TABLE THE DOG ROOM, SMALL The Dog Room by PEN + Michael Ong is a luxury kennel. Its concept was inspired by the basic archetype of a house, complete with a pitched roof, and is a child’s typical line-drawn representation of a home. The Dog Room is produced through the social enterprise team at HELP Manufacturing in Brisbane. HELP looks to enhance the lives of people with a disability through employment and training. RRP $699. madebypen.com

Sure to impress, the Sydney table by Ozzio converts from a coffee to a dining table.

Imported from Italy, this transformable coffee table adjusts in height and size when you need extra space for dining. The top expands from a 60x100cm coffee table to a 120x100cm dining table for four to eight people, and can be used at any height from 23cm to 76cm.

It’s available in a choice of colours with an ecowooden table top. RRP $1950 with delivery of up to $180 included. Available from Fold Out Furniture, the experts in space-saving smart solutions. foldoutfurniture.com.au

PANTHELLA PORTABLE TABLE LAMP FROM DANISH RED The Panthella Portable table lamp made by Louis Poulsen Denmark is the smallest edition of Vernon Panton’s iconic Panthella Table lamp from 1971. The new Panthella Portable, measuring 160 mm in diameter, is a true-to-scale version of the original and best of all, can be enjoyed anywhere as it is charged in advance by USB and doesn’t depend on a power supply.

The Panthella Portable table lamp comes in classic opal acrylic with three dimming options, making it easy to create a perfect glare-free ambience in the home, from the patio to the bedroom. Available at Danish Red, Australia’s largest range of unique, original Danish furniture, accessories and lighting. RRP $560. danishred.com.au

PANASONIC Z SERIES AIR CONDITIONER (MODEL CS/CU-Z25XKR) The Panasonic Z Series air conditioner actively cleans the air with nanoe™X technology, inhibiting pollutants. It seamlessly integrates smart home features with inbuilt Wi-Fi functionality and voice control integration with Google Home or Alexa. RRP $1199. panasonic.com/au/

TWO-FOLD OR THREE-FOLD SOFA BED Zen Natural Beds makes beds and sofa beds that are handcrafted with care in East Brisbane. Here is your chance to win either a three-fold or twofold Zen sofa bed with a comfy futon mattress in your choice of available sizes. They are so simple and easy to quickly fold out and back up again.

They are made from true solid timber with no sagging or squeaking. They are available in a wide range of Green Star Low-VOC stains and coatings to complement your home. RRP up to $2500. Further included in this prize is up to $400 of delivery anywhere in Australia (prize or delivery is not redeemable for cash). zenbeds.com.au

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SPONSORED P ROD UC T

SOUND ON Keep your finger on the pulse when it comes to audio technology

I

f you’re interested in having the best audio set-up at home, then you have probably already heard of Sonos. This softwaredriven audio company creates technology that celebrates sound, continuously refines the listening experience, and connects listeners and creators.

Premium Sound specialises in the full Sonos range, from soundbars and multi-room speakers to architectural speakers that are designed to blend in with your interior design.

With a large immersive “listening zone” in store and an easy-to-navigate website, the team at Premium Sound aims to make your experience with Sonos as welcoming as possible. The team is there to offer expert advice and a premium user experience rather than just a sale.

So what’s new for Sonos? Come down to Premium Sound and treat your ears to the Beam (Gen 2) soundbar. Take audiovisual entertainment to the next level with the

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latest generation of the Sonos compact smart soundbar — now with Dolby Atmos.

With the Beam (Gen 2), you can experience panoramic sound and crystal-clear dialogue for shows, movies and games.

And when the TV is off, you can stream music and more from all of your favourite services. Control is easy with the Sonos app, your voice, and Apple AirPlay 2. You can even add speakers to create a wireless surround-sound system and enjoy multiroom listening with everything connecting over Wi-Fi. For more than 50 years, Premium Sound has existed in many forms, changing and adapting with the needs of the consumer.

Focusing on premium brands such as Sonos ensures that when you come into a showroom, you can experience the bestquality audio products on the market and have an immersive and relaxed showroom experience. premiumsound.com.au

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SPECIA L F EAT UR E DESIGNER KIDS

MODERN

family Create a kid-friendly home without compromising on style WO RD S C AR ROL BAK E R

cool kids’ play space is one that stimulates the senses.

It’s a place for fun as well as a calming respite for quiet play, it’s imaginative, thought-provoking and, of course, it looks fabulous.

SET THE SCENE FOR FUN Given that your kids’ preferences will change and evolve as they grow, starting with a neutral colour scheme in a play room makes good sense. Lisa Alward, interior designer and founder of Bella Vie Interiors, says this allows you to customise your space as your child’s tastes and needs change.

“A limited palette also gives the room a more serene atmosphere, a welcome relief from the chaos of family life,” says Lisa. “A neutral palette can be enlivened by adding kids’ artwork, coloured throws and cushions or a feature

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armchair.” Some select stick-on custom wall decals are also a great way to inject personality into a room — and they can be swapped out for a fresh new look without having to repaint walls.

Incorporating textural elements into a play space can help to keep things tidy, add colour, personality and a sense of fun. Lisa suggests baskets to help clear the clutter. “Hand-woven baskets add texture as well as a functional element. Add labels so kids can easily see what is stored in them,” she suggests.

A large textural floor rug defines the space.

“Add floor and throw cushions for colour, texture and comfort, and use pattern to add a playful note to your space,” she says.

And for the final touches, Lisa suggests rattan in pendant lighting, furniture or decor. “It adds a relaxed textural element and is less bulky than solid or upholstered items,” she adds.

King Bill by Austin Maynard Architects.

Photography by Derek Swalwell. maynardarchitects.com

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Image courtesy of DG Designs.

Photography by Zena Photography. domgaucidesigns.com.au

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Image courtesy of Ella James. ellajames.co.uk

SP E CI AL FE AT UR E DESIGNER KIDS RIGHT Mills by Austin Maynard Architects. Photography by Peter Bennetts. maynardarchitects.com OPPOSITE TOP Image courtesy of LUXXU. luxxu.net

ARTISTIC FLAIR Art fuels a child’s creativity and imagination, it stimulates their innate curiosity and teaches them about the world we live in. While you probably don’t want your budding Picasso picking up crayons and unleashing their creativity on walls, there are plenty of good reasons for hanging art in their play spaces or bedroom.

Dom Gauci, artist and founder of DG Designs, says art is one of the greatest ways to elevate a space by creating personality within the room.

“Not only does it introduce your child to colours, shapes and different subjects, it can evoke a sense of harmony, cosiness and youthful joy,” she enthuses.

As Dom points out, when you’re young, everything is new and exciting. “Being surrounded by artwork where you play is a great way to stimulate the imagination (the same goes for us adults!),” she says. “Not only is it aesthetically transforming the space, it can be a key role in shaping your child’s understanding for whatever is portrayed.”

ROOM TO GROW Creating interesting and innovative play zones for kids begins with crafting spaces that can shape shift if needed. Mark Austin from Austin Maynard Architects says this is key.

“Ideally you need to create flexible spaces that can change over time in a way that suits the family,” he points out. And if you are planning play fixtures in a custom home that’s not yet built, it pays to think ahead. Mark says it can take a couple of years for a home to go through town planning and be finished. “You need to think in terms of how old the kids will be on completion of the project,” he says.

Play spaces that suit adults and kids alike is one idea to consider, and for that a play hammock is a great option. “It’s not just for the kids; the big kids of the family will enjoy it as well,” says Mark. “In projects we have built, the net is an extension of the upper floor level.”

If adding a hammock, you need a doublestorey-height home with a void, and there are regulatory requirements. An engineer will be required to certify it.

“IDEALLY YOU NEED TO CREATE FLEXIBLE SPACES THAT CAN CHANGE OVER TIME IN A WAY THAT SUITS THE FAMILY... “YOU NEED TO THINK IN TERMS OF HOW OLD THE KIDS WILL BE ON COMPLETION OF THE PROJECT” — MARK AUSTIN, AUSTIN MAYNARD ARCHITECTS GRAND DESIGNS

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Image courtesy of Sweetpea & Willow. sweetpeaandwillow.com

sweetpeaandwillow.com

PLAYROOM MUST-HAVES Functionality is key and when this is coupled with a beautiful designer aesthetic, you’ll have created a space your kids will love. Much of what you include in the playroom will, of course, be a reflection of their unique little personalities.

Include things they can get creative with, such as a chalkboard to draw or write on that can tuck away out of sight. An art space corner will delight the little ones, with plenty of creative options on offer including crayons, pencils and paints. Include an indoor tent, a place your child can escape to. Some are large enough to cater for grown-ups, too. A beautiful book case is an essential inclusion so kids can store their treasured favourite books, and having easy access to books will encourage them to read.

Image courtesy of Nook. mynook.com.au

RaeRae by Austin Maynard Architects.

Photography by Peter Bennetts. maynardarchitects.com

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SP E CI AL FE AT UR E DESIGNER KIDS

Image courtesy of Circu. circu.net

HIDE AND SEEK Families need storage — usually lots of it.

There are many clever storage solutions that allow you to hide away messy play. Mark says adequate storage is part and parcel of modernday living. “When going to bed, or if you have friends coming over, you need a storage space where you can almost sweep everything into a cupboard and shut the doors,” he says. If you have the space, inbuilt cupboard storage along the length of a wall provides ample storage.”

However, there isn’t always sufficient space to sacrifice a wall for cupboard space. But there are other storage solutions that definitely tick the box for innovation. Mark says one project he’s worked on was a long narrow home in dire need of storage. “We had to create storage without eating up available space by fitting cupboards along the wall,” he recalls. “So we thought, let’s put panels in the floor! You can lift them up and put toys away, and then the kids also found another use for it as a cubby.”

Green Acres by Austin Maynard Architects. Photography

by Tess Kelly. maynardarchitects.com

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SPECIA L F EAT UR E DESIGNER KIDS

mynook.com.au

IMAGINE THAT!

circu.net

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Encouraging active play that taps into a child’s imagination develops their social-emotional capacity, fosters creativity, helps them problem solve and unleash that boundless energy kids have. Olivia Rudomino, co-founder of My NooK, says creating a safe and comfortable space is essential for children’s playtime and development. One way to do this is through a play sofa. “It gives them creative freedom to build, play and use their imagination with their own piece of furniture,” she says. It can be so much more than a sofa — a cubby, a sunlounge, a digger, a racing car, or a cosy sleep space for an afternoon nap.

Olivia says play sofas enable kids to problem solve and engage in boisterous play more safely.

“They can truly extend their development while also being able to create a soft and comfortable space for play and relaxation,” she says.

The My NooK sofa is a unique, easy-to-use touch that helps turn seat space into sleep space ... or play space and back again.

Image courtesy of Caffe Latte. caffelattehome.com

TEEN ESCAPE ZONE

Image courtesy of DG Designs.

Photography by Zena Photography. domgaucidesigns.com.au

When your kids outgrow their toys and become teenagers, they’ll want their own space to hang out with their friends. Convert the kids’ playroom into a stylish teen retreat with simple cosy furnishings, add some rugs, plush cushions and throws. A console for a TV set and, if space permits, hang an egg chair to create a reading and relaxation space in their room, or a window seat for a quiet spot.

Get your kids involved in the process; that way you’ll build a space they are emotionally invested in and will want to spend time in. Add some functionality to the space with a work station, even a fold-down desk.

As older teens grow, they’ll develop a greater sense of autonomy and will want more privacy.

You’ll probably find they’ll spend more time in their bedrooms, so if possible, Mark suggests a separate entry for teens so they don’t have to traipse through the main thoroughfares of the home on the way to their “cave”. If you can make this happen, your older kids will appreciate it, he assures.

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SPONSORE D P RO DUCT

BESPOKE ELECTRIC FIREPLACES Breathe new life into any space while adding warmth and ambience with the Amantii Bespoke range

B

lending versatility, style and function, the Amantii Bespoke range of electric fireplaces is hot property.

With a state-of-the-art remote, adjustable colour spectrum and Wi-Fi capabilities that allow users to control the fire from their smartphone, every Amantii Bespoke electric fireplace is as smart as it is stunning.

Even while the heat is off, enjoy the brilliant flame of this superb range for ambience during every season. Equipped with a 50,000-hour LED light source, the Amantii will see you through plenty of seasons.

Designed with front flow heating and hidden venting to allow recessed or semi-flush mounting, these fireplaces are even approved for alfresco installations.

Unencumbered by unsightly venting, the fireplaces boast a truly clean face display.

Two quality audio speakers deliver a realistic fire crackling sound, while unrivalled life-like flames can be customised to suit the setting.

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Simply adjust the flame brightness and speed and alter the colour of the ember bed to match your mood.

There are three Amantii Electric Fire models available: the Symmetry Bespoke, the Symmetry XT Bespoke and the Traditional Bespoke. Designed in Canada, the range is the result of more than 40 years experience heating homes in Canada, USA and Europe.

Amantii is one of the top suppliers of electric fireplaces in North America and the new Bespoke range is the best of its best.

Symmetry Bespoke The Symmetry Bespoke series is more than an ordinary fireplace; it is a well-designed fireplace, combining classic form with a modern interpretation. One of its unique features is the included thermostatic remote.

It can be set and programmed (daily and weekly) for any temperature at any time you want. More controls are also available using the Wi-Fi app.

Symmetry XT Bespoke The Symmetry Xtra Tall Bespoke is grandly proportioned to fit in opulent rooms and commercial settings. It’s the size and height of this electric fireplace that started it all, revolutionising the electric fireplace industry. Delivering tall, full flames, it commands presence in any room and can be customised to your taste; from contemporary to traditional, the media log set selection is yours.

Traditional Bespoke Traditional Bespoke is a new interpretation of the classic fireplace with emphasis on superb design, features and quality. Choose flame colours and effects using the latest technology and rely on the optional log set to create a realistic look.

Inside the fireplace, a powerful heater warms up your space of up to 40sqm. Concealed heater vents above the glass allow for a truly clean appearance.

The Amantii Bespoke range of electric fireplaces is available at Castworks. castworks.com.au

Bringing “hygge” outdoors MADE IN DENMARK

The

that is much more than a grill MADE IN SPAIN

castworks.com.au

BRAVING

WIND & WATER Can we create a home that is resistant to floods and cyclones?

WO R D S K Y L I E B A R AC Z P H O T O G R A P H Y A N D R E A S S M E TA N A , C R E A M E L EC T R I C A R T, P R O D I G I O U S & G E T T Y I M AG E S

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S P ON SOR E D P R OJ E CT

O

ur great southern land is changing.

Extreme weather events are rapidly increasing in both duration and frequency, and our communities are taking the hit. Australian homes are becoming increasingly vulnerable due to the effects of climate change, and with each wild event devastating towns and cities, it is also impacting the health and wellbeing of its residents. Nowhere is this more evident than in Queensland.

Queensland couple John and Drucia know all too well how it feels when faced with a major flood. “It just kept raining and raining,” said John and Drucia, who were impacted by the 2019 Townsville floods. “We kept watching every day — it kept getting heavier and heavier. There were no breaks. It just was a continued belt of rain.”

Tash and Vince thought they were right during the 2011 Brisbane floods, but they didn’t realise the impact it was going to have. “We started to see the water rising at the back, and it just kept rising,” says Tash. “By this time, I had

four phone calls from my boss saying get out of your house and I was like ‘no, she’ll be right’ — but no, we weren’t.”

By the end of the flood, Tash and Vince found the tide mark was at least 40cm from the floor, on the second storey of their home. “For all the lower houses it was at roof level,” remembers the couple. “You lose irreplaceable memories; it puts massive stress on your pets and yourselves. It’s not just a house, it never was for us. It has always been a really special place and it’s our home.”

Since Cyclone Tracy back in 1974, building standards and codes were formed to address the life safety of residents. However, to this day, current building codes and standards don’t always cover a building’s resilience to the increasing threat of extreme weather.

“What we’ve seen after so many damage surveys now, after say Cyclone Larry and Cyclone Yasi, is that you’ve got a lot of rain coming into buildings, being driven in through

our windows and everything else, so we can’t live in our houses afterwards,” says David Henderson, chief research engineer of the Cyclone Testing Station at James Cook University. “Yes, we have our building codes and a lot of work has gone into our building codes and standards. And for a life safety-type issue it should be ok, but that’s the bare minimum.”

“There’s an assumption that current building codes will fully protect you,” says Paige Vincent, head of Consumer Portfolio at Suncorp Insurance. “While they do protect life, they don’t necessarily support building resilience.

And depending on when you built your home, will depend on how the code responded at that point in time.”

With each year, seeing more and more homes lost and communities torn apart, a team of experts worked to better understand the problem residents are faced with during wild weather events.

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ONE HOUSE TO SAVE MANY Suncorp, along with Australia’s leading experts in building resilience from CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and The Cyclone Testing Station, worked to reduce the effects of harsh weather events on housing.

By combining all their knowledge, research and expertise, the “One House to Save Many” project was born.

Inspired by the laid-back Queenslander, the expert team, along with Room11 Architects, completely redesigned this classic building style to include weatherresilient features to help withstand storms, floods, cyclones and fire. The result? A steadfast, three-bedroom prototype that can better protect its residents and maintain its structure and function after an event, without compromising on beautiful design aesthetic.

“Anybody can build a concrete and steel bunker that’s pretty resilient, but nobody wants to live in that,” says Kate Phillips, associate director of Room11 Architects. “So we’re trying to go above and beyond that to not only protect life, but lifestyle, too.”

By using existing standard building materials and technology, the expert One House team was able to keep the project cost effective, with the overall home worth

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S P O N S OR E D P R OJ E C T

the same as a standard architectural new home build. Each of these inclusions were successfully resilience-tested by CSIRO and James Cook University against three main perils: flood, cyclone and fire conditions. This was shown in Suncorp’s One House to Save Many documentary available on YouTube.

“Researchers collaboratively chose materials and design principles that would enable a house to survive each of these extreme events. This hasn’t been attempted before,” says Justin Leonard, research leader of Bushfire Adaptation at CSIRO.

TESTING CYCLONE AND SEVERE WIND RESILIENCE The team at James Cook University extensively tested One House’s cyclone and severe wind resistance at their Cyclone Testing Station. Its purpose is to improve the safety of those who experience cyclones or severe wind events, and minimise their loss and suffering. The JCU team carried out a wind-driven debris and a roof section pressure demonstration, simulating the effects of cyclonic wind.

“In the cyclic pressure test we did in the air chamber, we applied dynamic loading as the wind hits the roofing. It’s all that suction pressure trying to pick up the whole house by

its roof cladding, so you need the pin screws holding the roof down to the battens, the battens down to the rafters, the rafters down to the top lay — each of those connections has to be right to make sure a house sticks around,” explains David. “All these tests are really just to try to help get a more resilient design and

structure and then combine all of them to give us a better resilience product overall.”

The results of this collaboration, research and testing enabled the team to qualify specific design principles and demonstrate how clever use of design and material selection can dramatically increase the resilience of a home.

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SPONSORED P ROJ E C T

Door design

Electricity and appliances

Floor materials

ONE HOUSE’S FLOOD AND CYCLONE-PROOF FEATURES Each of One House’s included features are well thought out and ready to face the elements.

The prototype’s clever use of design and material selection dramatically increases its level of resilience, from its electrical wiring housed in the roof to its glazed doors.

Ceiling storage

FLOODRESILIENT FEATURES » » » » » »

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Water-resistant materials Electrical wiring housed in the roof Retaining walls that divert water Fibre-cement interior walls Freestanding appliances Raised powerpoints

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Electrical Electrical wiring is traditionally run low in the wall cavity and in the floor — but in One House it’s smartly installed in the roof. Power points and switches are also installed at least 1m above floor level to try to reduce the risk of electrical issues during flooding.

The two levels of the home run on separate circuits, so if either one takes on damage, occupants should still have power in one section and, if possible and safe to do so, stay there following an extreme weather event. It also features a solar array on the roof that can be used for general electricity where the mains supply may have been compromised or cut off. All household appliances are freestanding rather than integrated into the building, which can allow the occupants to remove or raise appliances off the floor prior to an expected inundation event, preventing the appliances from being damaged.

Construction To help avoid timber framing and plasterboard wall linings swelling or rotting during extreme weather, One House utilises a steel stud framing system on a 100mm concrete upstand. Internal wall linings are a fibre-cement sheet system with vertical battens covering the joints. As the fibre-cement sheets are water-resistant and removable, occupants can unscrew them after a severe weather event to inspect damage, remove debris and dry out the wall cavity, then re-assemble and continue to live in the home.

All glazed doors are fitted using a top-hung track system and flush threshold — a 50mm setdown from interior to exterior. This allows water to escape through the building openings and limits the possibility of doors becoming jammed by debris following an inundation event.

The floors of One House are either burnished concrete, tiles or pavers. These materials are waterproof, easy to clean and far less likely to be damaged than carpet and timber during an extreme weather event. They also should not need replacing following an inundation event.

While most of the ceiling in the upper level is raked, the area above the powder room and store is flat. This is the zone for the air-conditioning unit, hot-water cylinder and battery store for the solar array. Storing these systems here means they won’t be affected by an inundation event and can be easily inspected for damage.

One House is protected from flying debris penetrating the building fabric, breaking glass and damaging external cladding via fixed and operable mesh screens wrapping the verandah, protecting the external skin of the building from this debris.

Roofing Cyclone-rated screws and washers are featured on the One House roof. They are stronger than standard fixings and can be inspected and adjusted throughout the season. The roof frame also utilises a tie-down system to the concrete slab that reduces the risk of “flying roof” during a severe wind event. The home’s design and layout also allow pressure to escape and high winds to pass around and through the structure, which can help to maintain the building’s integrity during a severe storm or cyclone.

Exterior features include reinforced materials such as core-filled block and mesh screens on the verandah. Core-filled block was selected as it is stronger than some

Mesh screens

traditional materials such as weatherboard, while the mesh protects the structure from flying debris and direct contact from winddriven water during a storm or cyclone. These materials also allow the home to passively cool itself during hot weather as they facilitate air flow and provide shade.

In high-wind weather events, anything around a home can become flying debris. To combat this, the home’s design features an outdoor storage area with core-filled block perimeter walls. This allows occupants to secure items around their home prior to a high-wind event to minimise flying debris.

“If every Australian had the features of One House in their own house, we would have a lot less stress and the community could get on and do what it does,” says David. “Not being newsworthy is what we’re looking for.”

John Doolan, director of The Cyclone Testing Station, says “What One House can really do is to ignite a change of mindset in the community from one of ‘someone else is looking after it’ to ‘I need to be aware of my own situation’. That additive across the community or across a city or across a state — that’s when you get change.”

HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOUR HOME As the frequency of natural disasters increases, money spent rebuilding communities after every disaster also increases and this includes insurance.

Suncorp’s commitment to resilience not only sparked the “One House to Save Many” project, it extends this commitment to its insurance products and inclusions.

“There is no way we can stop these storms or cyclones or floods from happening. But if we can reduce the amount of damage that weather causes to properties, and therefore lower the cost to actually repair the homes,

Protective outdoor storage

then we can actually afford to start lowering the premiums,” says Paige Vincent, head of Consumer Portfolio at Suncorp Insurance.

Suncorp’s goal is to address the issue at the onset and make communities stronger by encouraging them to improve the resilience of their homes. “Build It Back Better”*, an Australian home insurance first, will help customers with homes that are substantially damaged (more than $50,000 or 10 per cent of the sum insured) rebuild their home stronger with additional recommended resilience options designed to help withstand severe weather.

Suncorp Insurance is also looking at further ways to build resilience in the future by rewarding homeowners with reduced premiums on home insurance for investment and preparation. Researchers at James Cook University, in partnership with Suncorp, are conducting innovative research analysing insurers’ policy and claims data. This data is being used, in combination with CTS findings on damage investigations and full-scale house testing, to highlight mitigation options to reduce the risk of damage from cyclones.

Suncorp, along with other insurers, is incorporating these learnings to actively promote mitigation/retrofitting strategies to reduce damage from cyclones as well as reward homeowners with reductions on their insurance premium for mitigation work undertaken. The benefits are not only for older “pre-code” housing, they can also improve the performance of new construction, especially by reducing the damage from wind-driven rainwater ingress.

After surviving Cyclone Yasi, Michael Cacciola says, “If you live in fear of the next storm season, the next bushfire season, are you really living life?”

Learn more by searching onehouse.suncorp.com.au

Air pressure relief

CYCLONERESILIENT FEATURES » » » » » »

Robust balustrade High-performance mesh screens Air-pressure relief Cyclone-rated fixings Outdoor storage Reinforced materials

* Disclaimer: Resilience options tiered between $5000-$10,000. Conditions and exclusions apply. Before buying insurance issued by Suncorp Insurance, read the PDS at suncorp.com.au. The TMD is also available.

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Houses The cream of the crop in Australian architecture

Photography Andy Macpherson

82 Hawkesbury Chapel 94 Federal House 112 10 Fold House 126 Bondi House 138 Cummings House 150 Coleridge House

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TV HOU SE HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

GUARDIAN

Angels

Since purchasing a derelict sandstone chapel and cemetery on the shores of the Hawkesbury River in 2013, these homeowners have made it their responsibility to not only preserve the history of this property, but also ensure its longevity for another 150 years WO R D S K A R S H A G R E E N P H O T O G R A P H Y K AT H E R I N E LU

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TV HOU SE HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

D E TAI LS HOUSE Hawkesbury Chapel LOCATION Sackville North, NSW INITIAL BUDGET $350,000 FINAL COST $450,000 DATE COMMENCED March 2019 DATE COMPLETED November 2019

ABOVE Homeowners Simon and Lauren with Peter Maddison

ED ITO R’ S FAVOUR ITE THE GLASS BRIDGE THAT LINKS THE OLD CHAPEL WITH THE MODERN EXTENSION AND PAYS HOMAGE TO THE PROPERTY’S HISTORY, WITH THE NAMES OF THOSE BURIED IN THE ONSITE CEMETERY ETCHED INTO THE ROOF

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ack in 2013, Simon and Lauren purchased a 1.5-acre riverfront property that housed a 60sqm derelict sandstone chapel and cemetery. Labelled a “high-risk ruin” by the bank and warned against it by family and friends, the couple found the opportunity was “too seductive to refuse”, and over 16 months, they single-handedly turned the abandoned chapel into a modern, two-bedroom home. However, six years and two children later, Simon and Lauren had outgrown the chapel and had come to the “realisation that we would either have to think creatively about extension or sell. Selling was not an option.

“Our brief for the second project was to create a sustainable off-grid, modern family home that performs economically without compromising space, comfort, functionality, lifestyle or design. It was important to us that we create an addition that provided us all the modern comforts the church lacked (heating, space, view of the river etc) while keeping the original build the main focus,” say Simon and Lauren.

While renovating the chapel, access to the town’s water and power was non-existent and completely out of Simon and Lauren’s price range.

Therefore, the couple installed solar panels to supply them with power and Simon, an engineer and plumber by trade, cleverly designed a complex filtration and pump system to filter the Hawkesbury River water to drinking standard. Already completely off-grid, the extension needed to adhere to these conditions, so Simon began considering passive housing due to its amazing thermal efficiency and performance.

“We really wanted to create a historically sympathetic, sustainable and

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ABOVE Connecting the chapel and the new building was a highly debated and incredibly important element of the overall home. After endless nights of research by Simon, the glass corridor acts as a symbolic connection between the two distinctly different structures

W E LOV E THE 100 PER CENT RECYCLABLE, LOW-MAINTENANCE COPPER CLADDING THAT WILL PATINA OVER TIME TO BLEND IN WITH THE SURROUNDING BUSH LANDSCAPE luxurious family home that celebrated the rich history and beauty of our little pocket of the globe,” says Lauren. “Simon also insisted on using premium materials and craftsmanship to ensure our new addition would easily last another 150 years.”

Passive housing has become popular due to the construction’s super-efficient thermal properties.

Construction materials are key to a passive house but due to budget constraints, Simon worked closely with LogikHaus, a startup looking to bring quick, cost-effective, prefabricated passive house panels to the market. The was the first project for LogikHaus — Simon and his tradie mates provided the labour while LogikHaus provided the materials. With a combination of thick insulation, triple-glazed windows and almost a kilometre of tape, the new extension stays at a comfortable temperature all year round, no matter what the weather is like outside.

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T V H OUS E HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

“WE HAVE A DEEPLY SPIRITUAL CONNECTION TO THE PROPERTY AND NOW TO THE MEMORIES MADE BUILDING OUR HOUSE … BEST OF ALL, WITH ITS OWN ONSITE CEMETERY, WE NEVER HAVE TO LEAVE! JUST ROLL US DOWN THE HILL AND ADD A HEADSTONE!” – SIMON AND LAUREN

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TV HOU SE HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

After living in the chapel for many years, Simon and Lauren wanted this new home to be fitted with all the luxuries of modern living

“Our own aesthetic aims to be contemporary and timeless,” says Lauren. “It is important that we don’t try to replicate the original features of the church. Our design is influenced by our need to keep the old and the new easily distinguishable and not blur the lines between the historic features and the new additions … the property dictated the design in every way.”

Preservation of the chapel was always the main consideration throughout the extension design. The modern building would stand alone from the chapel, not to compete with it but to fade into the background and allow the chapel to remain the hero. But whether or not to physically link the two buildings was what kept Simon awake at night. His main concern was not damaging or interrupting the facade of the chapel.

Inspired by architecture that bridges the new and the old, such as the Adelaide State Library, Simon and Lauren chose a glass walkway to connect the chapel and the modern extension.

While functionally protecting the family from external elements as they travel between the two buildings, glass wouldn’t conceal the chapel’s

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original facade. In collaboration with Palmers Glass, the linkway doesn’t just connect the old and the new, it pays homage to those who will forever grace the property, with every name of those buried in the cemetery and the years they passed etched into the ceiling panel. “The link between the two buildings generated the most heated discussions and focused problem solving, and resulted in something we are truly proud of,” say Simon and Lauren.

Now with a sibling 150 years its junior, a cantilevered, copper-clad, passive house sits lovingly beside the sandstone chapel. With a three-bedroom, two-bathroom extension and views that truly capture the Hawkesbury River location, Simon and Lauren have not just one, but two dream homes. “We have a deeply spiritual connection to the property and now to the memories made building our house.

Every morning, we look out over the river with gratitude for being able to call this place home and the opportunities and lifestyle it has afforded us. Best of all, with its own onsite cemetery, we never have to leave! Just roll us down the hill and add a headstone!”

Cleverly designed seamless storage in the living room allows for an abundance of extra space and a hidden bar for entertaining

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TV HOU SE HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

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L E GE ND 1 Entry 2 Family hangout space 3 Home office 4 Bathroom 5 Store room 6 Laundry 7 Bedroom 1 8 Dressing room 9 Ensuite 10 Library 11 Dining room 12 Kitchen 13 Bathroom 2 14 Bedroom 3 15 Storage/linen

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AT TI C FLO O R PL A N

P ROJ EC T T EA M ARCHITECTS Homeowner, Simon Jones and Sharon Jones from Accomplished Design, sharon-jones-accomplished-design.business.site BUILDERS AND INTERIOR DESIGNERS Homeowners, Simon and Lauren Jones

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STRUCTURAL TEAM Passive House designer/supplier LogikHaus Fire proofing/cladding Fire Crunch Fire proofing/shutters Warrior Windows Roof/wall cladding Topsmith Concrete/form work KMA Concrete Constructions Architectural glass link Palmers Glass Concrete polishing Concrete Envy Stone slab/tiles CDK Stone Landscaping, sandstone Australian Sandstone Merchants Concrete supply PF Formations FIXTURES & FITTINGS Window frames LogikHaus Joinery BC Kitchens & Shopfitting Bathroom acrylic panels Forest One (Gunnersens) Bathroom cabinets/joinery Australian Heirloom Timber Bathtub, basins Set in Steel Bathroom fixtures ABI Interiors Home automation, electrical LIW Solar

Working with a small space in the chapel, a glass balustrade for the spiral staircase made it safe for the kids without adding a bulky feature to the floorplan

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TV HOU SE HAWKESBURY CHAPEL

1 2

Colour Palette A warm neutral palette reflects the tones in eig , the sandstone. Be and timber create s earthy vibe while of olive green keep the feel modern

01/ Monochrome geometric rug. audenza.com 02/ Eames DSW dining chair. hermanmiller.com 03/ Megara polished concrete bath. schots.com.au 04/ Saba Italia Avant Apres modular sofa. designnation.com.au 05/ Risom side chair. knoll.com 06/ Brutalist timber art stool. tigmitrading.com

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PROJECT FEDERAL HOUSE

FADE TO

black Distinguished yet recessive, Federal House packs a punch while remaining sustainable as well as respectful to the land on which it sits WO R D S N I S H I A M A R AT U N G A P H O T O G R A P H Y B E N H O S K I N G

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Federal House’s progressive design pushes the boundaries of what a home really is

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PROJECT FEDERAL HOUSE

t’s not uncommon to crave a homeas-a-sanctuary setting in this day and age, given the fast-paced world many of us live in. While this isn’t always possible in big cities, many regional areas across the country can facilitate a slower, more grounded pace of life. The Melbourne-based owners of this delightful abode — a family consisting of two professionals and their three university-aged children — kept this in mind when choosing the location of their holiday home. They eventually settled on Federal, a charming Northern Rivers village just 20km from the bustling seaside town of Byron Bay. Federal House, which is what they affectionately call the dwelling you see here, will function as a holiday escape for about 10 years or so. After that, there’s a chance it may become the house this family calls home.

“The design for the Federal House is progressive as it takes the basic premise of a home as a shelter and pushes the boundaries of all its relationships,” shares Kim Bridgland, director of Edition Office. “Its approach is to take the vessel of habitation and create honest relationships unique to how it allows one to

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The home’s primary exterior material — black-stained rough-sawn timber — facilitates a perfect juxtaposition of light and dark

D E TAI L S HOUSE Federal House LOCATION Federal, NSW DATE COMMENCED September 2018 DATE COMPLETED January 2020

experience place and time — its colonial past and the traditional ownership of the landscape, its responsibility to its environmental context and its tactile intimacy.”

From a distance, Federal House’s structure may seem recessive, a mere shadow within the vast landscape. On arrival, however, the roof brings the home’s gravitas into perspective. “The roof is a precise object that is consciously aware of its embedded semiotics and its foreignness to the Bundjalung country landscape and its indigenous heritage,” Kim elaborates. The home’s primary exterior material — black-stained rough-sawn timber — facilitates a perfect juxtaposition of light and dark, while also contrasting the sense of singularity the exterior exudes when viewed from afar.

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“The darker, textural palette gives way to the soft and immersive interior, where the living and sleeping spaces are wrapped in warm blackbutt timber lining boards,” Kim explains. The home’s modest living spaces and three bedrooms all expand into a covered verandahstyle outdoor living zone that envelops the home. The verandah provides for the enjoyment of the stunning unfolding landscape to the north, while enhancing the sense of sanctuary from Mother Nature’s extremities.

It allows the family to be outside in torrential rain or avoid the burning midday sun, depending on what the weather holds in store — something they likely won’t take for granted, given their Melbournian roots.

Many elements that appear in this unique holiday home were custom-made to align with Edition Office’s architectural vision and the family’s taste. “Customdesigned recessed downlights, door pulls and superheavy-weight gates all required intimate working relationships with the makers and fabricators of the project. Their workmanship, dedication and care all came together to bring the home to life,” Kim says.

Federal House’s central courtyard functions as the living heart of the home. It was brought to life through a close working relationship between Edition Office and the project’s landscape architect. The home is grounded by its subterranean pool, located close to the planted void. On entry, the still body of water can be glimpsed through the lush void’s ferns. Designed to facilitate the experience of a freshwater swimming hole within the comfort of one’s home, this area also acts as a functional device for passive cooling. “Warm air flowing through the sheltered pool is cooled through heat transfer across the shaded body of water. This cooled air then flows up through the cloistered fern garden and naturally ventilates and cools the living spaces,” Kim explains.

Thanks to this clever inclusion, the home does not need to rely on high-energy-consumption cooling systems such as air conditioning. All spaces further benefit from natural cooling thanks to cross-flow ventilation through the large bays of the louvre windows. While ceiling fans are installed throughout the home, they’re barely ever used as the house is shielded from the hot western sun by the deep 200mm battened screen to the western terrace. The house remains just as energy-efficient during the winter months. It is highly insulated and features thermally broken windows with high-performance glass, so no heating is required apart from a small open fireplace.

There’s one other impressive fact about Federal House that we can’t help but highlight — the home is reliant on its own water supply. It contains a large roof catchment, which harvests water supply in a sizable 60,000L tank.

While Federal House will remain a holiday home for the time being, we imagine it’s not an easy place to leave to return to the hustle and bustle of city life. Thankfully, it has been designed with the future clearly in mind. We would not be surprised if this atypical holiday house one day becomes the family’s forever home.

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P R OJ E CT FEDERAL HOUSE

WE LOVE THE VERANDAH THAT ENVELOPS THE HOME, WHICH PRESENTS AN IDEAL SPOT TO ADMIRE THE VAST LANDSCAPE BEYOND

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ABOVE The home’s living spaces expand seamlessly out to the covered verandah

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P R OJ E CT FEDERAL HOUSE

The balance of dark and light in the dining room is magical

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PROJECT FEDERAL HOUSE

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PROJ EC T TEA M ARCHITECT Edition Office, edition-office.com BUILDER SJ Reynolds Constructions, sjrconstruct.com

STRUCTURAL TEAM Structural engineer Westera Partners Landscape architect Florian Wild FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Artwork Station Gallery Furniture Fred International, Sarah Ellison Studio, Criteria Collection Lighting Fred International, Rakumba Lighting, Viabizzuno Lighting Rugs Loom Rugs FIXTURES & FITTINGS Custom door pull Sean & Horn

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E D I TO R’ S FAVO URI T E THE JUXTAPOSITION OF DARK AND WARM SPACES

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A black shell is lifted with vignettes of greenery from the outside. Timber paneling and floors create a warm earthy ambience.

Cream and greys keep it contemporary

01/ Raw rug. hayshop.com.au 02/ MFL By Masson Fleming dimmable pendant. beaconlighting.com.au 03/ Masculo Lounge Chair. cultdesign.com.au 04/ Grashoppa floor lamp. cultdesign.com.au 05/ Harmo chair. designnation.com.au 06/ Tiny moon pouf. trimmcopenhagen.com 07/ Bolster club chair. livingedge.com.au 08/ La L B Boule l dinner di set. t villeroy-boch.com.au 09/ Zim mi sink mixer. phoenixtapware.com.au

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FE AT UR E GDA HOTY AWARDS

MAGAZINE

HOUSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS We take a look at the last three finalists e called on Australian architects and builders to enter their best designs for a chance to win this prestigious award and huge exposure in the magazine and across its online and social media platforms.

We looked for brilliant client outcomes in residential buildings, conversions, significant renovations or restoration projects. The

finalists offered unique or interesting elements in terms of design, use of materials and construction to deliver a project that shines.

The Grand Designs Australia Magazine House of the Year Awards are proudly brought to you by our Gold sponsor, Cosh Living, Silver sponsor, Rylock Windows & Doors, and trade sponsors Indi Imports, Loewe International and Geraldton Bricks.

Proudly brought to you by

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FEATURE GDA HOTY AWARDS

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DECO HOUSE — MIHALY SLOCOMBE AND BASIS BUILDERS In 2016, homeowners Frank and Amy purchased one of a series of six 1930s Art Deco cottages in the backstreets of Kew in Melbourne. The couple intended to raise their future children in the renovated home, so the pragmatic brief focused strongly on amenity — increased footprint, flexible rooms, performance kitchen and off-street parking.

The architects also set out to respond to context, history, environment and material. The use of the Art Deco style in the suburbs was minimal compared with the city centre, but there was still plenty to be inspired by. “(There was) a lot to love about the asymmetrical floor plan, patterned brick detailing and delicate ceiling friezes of Frank and Amy’s house,” says architect Warwick Mihaly. “Our design strategy sought to honour the heritage of the house by retaining the front rooms and their period detailing, and siting our two-storey extension in deference to the original series of cottages. We maintained the hidden side entry, reinforced the internal planning split between public and private zones, and

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doubled down on the relationship between formal and informal spaces,” he continues.

“We’re particularly proud of the stepped bullnose roofs, which solved a collection of thorny design challenges in one gesture: they navigated maximum building envelope permissions, anchored Deco House in the era of its namesake, and added a little Hollywood razzle dazzle to leafy Kew. We used the roofs to establish an expressive character for the project and a sequence of carefully oriented sections, each slice facing lush gardens and natural light.”

Frank and Amy have been living in Deco House for a little over a year now. It’s a compact, flexible and future-proof home that supports the owners’ current lifestyles and will evolve to accommodate the future needs of the family. It also supercharges the pragmatic requirements of the brief with a strong dose of soul. The homeowners’ everyday activities are set within a considered work of architecture, with northand east-facing windows taking it in turns to introduce light indoors, and bullnose ceilings scattering light across a lustrous material palette.

Photography by Tatjana Plitt. mihalyslocombe.com.au; basisbuilders.com.au

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THE STICKS — I ARCHITECTURE AND DJOKIC CONSTRUCTIONS A rural property deep within the Upper Kangaroo River farming area, The Sticks is an example of a new typology, one which blurs the line between residential and boutique hotel that the architects term “Sociable Housing”.

It allows for large numbers of people to experience good design as a retreat from everyday life.

The owners required the house to have character that came not just from design, but from the selective use of natural materials such as timber. A raw and rugged character was desired. This materiality is appropriate for the highusage environment, references traditional rural materiality, and will improve with age through natural weathering and usage.

The owners also requested a dwelling that could be adapted to suit varying numbers of guests at one time in a luxurious yet understated setting. This has been achieved with a plan arranged in three wings that can be spatially isolated, along a fragmented spine.

The house is entered via a tunnel that penetrates the western spine wall that leads to an open foyer. From this point, one proceeds through a kitchen and informal eating area that opens to living and dining spaces. These are focused on the massive timber-formed concrete fireplace. An integral cantilever concrete shelf invites one to sit beside the fire. Generous stacking glazing leads to a large deck that wraps around two sides of the building, providing generous outdoor living spaces in a podium form that orients to the predominant view of the escarpment. This decking then links to the landscape via a series of stairs and terraces. Photography by Kat Lu. iarch.com.au; djokicconstructions.com

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HAWTHORN HOUSE — EDITION OFFICE AND FLUX The brief was to design a home that would age gracefully, a private yet open dwelling with multiple living areas to allow both adults and children of the family to grow and have their changing needs accommodated over time. To achieve this, the architects fi rst set out to create a singular terrace — a grand outdoor theatre for living which peels upwards at each title boundary to form a lush garden backdrop that would appear at every viewpoint from the living areas of the home. Within this garden platform, the house is defi ned by a pair of heavily textured concrete shrouds, each with its own proportion and personality, linked together by a walkway and courtyard garden.

A defining element of this project is the balance of seemingly contradictory states that coexist within this home. It is at once civic and domestic, deeply enclosed while being intensely open, and highly exposed while being effortlessly private. It is heavy yet also surprisingly light. The house employs an enigmatic formal clarity that allows a dialogue to open between itself and its surroundings.

The concrete shells have no windows and simply offer a sense of primitive shelter and sanctuary as they cosset the living spaces which spill out to gardens on all sides.

The language of the repeated arch motif evolved as a way of structurally supporting the house with its own skin, while concealing the fi rst-floor sleeping and bathing

FE AT UR E GDA HOTY AWARDS

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spaces behind the apparently solid and windowless upper half of the concrete shells.

From the first floor, the context appears denied, however, these private spaces are pulled away from the ends of the solid skin which allows each of them to look out through full-height glazing onto their own private courtyards full of plants, sky and tree canopy.

The house is a very particular response to the site and client, but broadly, the architects see the project beyond its core function of dwelling as a poetic vessel that can modify both experience of place and amplify particular experiences of one’s daily life.

Beyond the formal qualities of the concrete shells, what defines the house are the daily experiences of affect and delight that the building offers while living and spending time in it. The architects’ objective was to provide a strong sense of sanctuary, a feeling of being “elsewhere” and away from the challenges of a daily working life.

Photography by Ben Hosking. edition-office.com; fluxconstruction.com.au

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TEN OUT OF TEN

A unique 10-fold roof plane design in this Edwardian rebuild has increased the liveability of the modern, light-filled home … tenfold WO R D S K A R S H A G R E E N P H O T O G R A P H Y P E T E R B E N N E T T S

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P R OJ E CT 10 FOLD HOUSE

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P ROJECT 10 FOLD HOUSE

D ETAILS HOUSE 10 Fold House LOCATION Abbotsford, VIC INITIAL BUDGET $650,000 FINAL COST $660,000 DATE COMMENCED August 2018 DATE COMPLETED June 2021

ABOVE Built as a “forever family home”, the interior material and colour palette is “neutral and earthy” with textures of Tasmanian oak, natural stone and original brickwork

WE LOVE THE 10 FOLDS OF THE ROOF PLANES THAT CREATE VOLUMES OF SPACE, PUNCTUATED BY LIGHT

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n a quiet street in a Melbourne suburb, single-fronted Edwardian townhouses sit side by side. Acknowledging the neighbouring architectural history and reflecting the pattern of the street, this newbuild, two-storey home retains the original footprint while offering the homeowners a modern, light-filled interior.

As with most period homes, the floorplan deprived the interior of northern light and a connection to the outdoors. The original kitchen faces the side boundary fence and the laundry had external access. The homeowners were looking to rebuild the home, adding a second storey and additional space, as well as making the most of the city views accessible from the upper floor.

“The client also knew from getting up onto the roof that there was a view to the city, so we designed the large corner window to frame the view in the main bedroom,” says Sally Timmins, director of Timmins+Whyte Architecture+Design. “The clients have already sent us photos of the window from their bed showing three hot-air balloons passing by early one morning, and another of the city glowing as the sun was setting in oranges and pinks.”

The new floorplan makes the most of the home’s orientation, filling the living/dining space with natural light and offering a seamless connection to the outdoors

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While the home’s presence from the street was important, it was the reconfiguration of the floorplan to allow the living space to open to the backyard that drove the overall design. To achieve this, the bathroom and laundry was moved from the rear to a central location, and the unique 10-fold roof design was implemented.

“The inspiration for the design was to use the roof planes to fold along the narrow site to address the street pattern and create volumes of space punctuated by light,” shares Sally. “The upper-storey roof folds down to minimise visual bulk to the single-storey house to the east and rises to soften the contrast of the large ‘solid’ neighbour to the west. The rear butterfly roof creates openings on the north and west for light and views.”

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E D I TO R’ S FAVO U RI T E THE BANQUET-STYLE SEATING IN THE DINING SPACE WITH PINK UPHOLSTERY AND TASMANIAN OAK DETAILING

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ABOVE The colours of the house, both internally and externally, are inspired by the Australian bush.

Tasmanian oak and natural stone are accented by soft grey and pink tones Built as a “forever family home”, the interior material and colour palette is “neutral and earthy”. Textures such as Tasmanian oak and natural stone complement the exposed brickwork that was preserved from the original building. A muted colour palette of greys and soft pinks creates a feeling of warmth with an intricate stained-glass window in the stairway, reminiscent of a “droopy gum tree with its myriad greens and pinks and yellow hues that are highlighted when the sun shines through it”.

Sally points out that the colours of the house, both externally and internally, are based on the native Australian bush. “The green externally, the Tasmanian timber with its pink hues and the fabric on the banquette were carefully chosen to complement the existing heritage brick dividing wall that was retained and remains exposed,” says Sally.

10 Fold House is a beautiful example of rebuilding while paying homage to its architectural history, as well as respecting the pattern of the street.

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While the home’s material palette is very simple, the unique textures and colouring of the oak and stone provide create a beautiful aesthetic

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L EG EN D 1 Front yard 2 Bin storage 3 Entry hall 4 Study/living/ third bedroom 5 Bathroom/laundry 6 IT/wine storage 7 Service courtyard 8 Kitchen 9 Dining/sitting 10 Backyard 11 Main bedroom 12 Landing 13 Bathroom 14 Bedroom

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The homeowners wanted to maintain the home’s original façade in acknowledgement of the neighbourhood’s history and reflecting the pattern of the street

PR OJECT TEA M ARCHITECT & INTERIOR DESIGNER Timmins+Whyte Architecture+Design, timminswhyte.com.au BUILDER Encore Projects, encoreprojects.com.au

STRUCTURAL TEAM Structural engineer R Bliem & Associates SERVICES Joinery Profile Office Furniture Electrician Emseem FINISHES Natural stone Adriatic Stone FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Artwork (Two Boats) Margie Sheppard, Port Jackson Press Print Gallery Artwork (The Sirens) Nycki Rozakeas, Great Frames Dining table and chairs TIDE Design Green stool/side table Jeremy Evision, District Island bench stools Mattiazzi, District Banquette cushions (custom) Atelier Banquette cushion fabric Warwick

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Prior to the rebuild, the homeowner had climbed onto the roof and discovered they had access to city views. When redesigning the master bedroom, a wraparound window was installed in order to capture the cityscape

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Mood Board

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Colour Palette A honey-timber, white and concrete base is warmed by cream, beige, peach and olive furnishings.

The result is a cosy, contemporary space

01/ Promenado terrazzo-look tiles. beaumont-tiles.com.au 02/ Opal arch pendant. warmnordic.com 03/ Asha dusk cushion. linenhouse.com.au 04/ Peony cushion. linenhouse.com 05/ Gesture chair. warmnordic.com 06/ Dallas sofa. jameslane.com.au 07/ Bebop side table. designnation.com.au 08/ Vice lamp by Esben Gravlev for Lucie Kaas. luciekaas.com l k m

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Now more than ever indoor air quality is so important COMBINED THERE IS 2-5 TIMES MORE POLLUTION INDOORS THAN OUTDOORS1, AND WE SPEND ON AVERAGE 90% OF OUR LIVES INSIDE2.

NanoeTMX effectively inhibits many of these pollutants both in the air, as well as on surfaces in your home.

INHIBITS MAJOR ALLERGENS NEUTRALISES POLLUTANTS HYDRATES AND MOISTURISES ACTIVELY DEODOURISES INHIBITS POLLEN INHIBITS MOULD INHIBITS BACTERIA INHIBITS VIRUSES

CHOOSE PANASONIC AIR CONDITIONERS WITH NANOE™X AIR PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY,* FOR HEALTHIER AIR IN YOUR HOME *The nanoe™X mode can be run independently from cooling or heating mode, and needs to be on for the 24 hour air purification to function. The effect of nanoeTMX varies depending on model selected.

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Source: https://www.epa.gov/iaq-schools/why-indoor-air-quality-importantschools#

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Source: http://www.environment.gov.au/protection/air-quality/indoor-air

Scan this QR code if you would like to receive an obligation free quote for your home.

panasonic-air.com

MOULDING

Metal This narrow townhouse in the leafy back streets of Bondi may have a small footprint, but it certainly has a big personality WO R D S K A R S H A G R E E N P H O T O G R A P H Y DAV E W H E E L E R , B R E T T B OA R D M A N

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P R OJ E CT BONDI HOUSE

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E D I TOR ’ S FAVO U R I T E THE CENTRAL COURTYARD THAT’S WRAPPED IN CURVED GLASS

n a naturalistic site with views of the Bondi valley, and flanked by a forest of paperbark trees, a dilapidated, inter-war, semi-detached house was saddled with a dark interior, significant damp issues and an uninspiring floorplan. After renting the house out for many years, the homeowners — a middle-age couple with a dog — were moving back to Sydney and “wanted a house that was filled with light and one that would fit contextually into a very tight site,” says Conrad Johnston, director at Studio Johnston .

“Much of our inspiration comes from the site and is a form of problem solving. In this case the site was very small, had a public pathway down the side and was backing into a hill, which made light a key issue. In this case there were two driving elements: a sculptural copper blade wall and a strong sandstone podium. These create continuous and spacious living areas and the blade took care of the light and privacy considerations,” says Conrad.

Copper cladding is a popular choice for modern homeowners. While the upfront costs are high, the maintenance costs are low and the natural patina of the copper over the years creates an unpredictable yet priceless facade. Having seen another project completed by Studio Johnston in Mosman, the homeowners were adamant on a “sculptural copper building”. After some difficulty in obtaining council approval for a “sculptural response to the site”, as well as ensuring the design retained the neighbours’ half of the semi, the result is a beautiful illustration of this industrial material.

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While the upfront costs of the sculptural copper cladding are high, the material is very low maintenance and will patina naturally over time for a unique, timeless facade

P R OJ E CT BONDI HOUSE

D ETAI L S HOUSE Bondi House LOCATION Bondi, NSW DATE COMMENCED March 2017 DATE COMPLETED March 2020

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PROJECT BONDI HOUSE

The home’s interiors beautifully reflect the natural tones of the exterior landscape

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“The best moment was revealing the copper to the client,” says Conrad. “The client was very determined to have the copper building and when we were looking to save money and provide an alternate solution, he was steadfast. It was a great moment when it was revealed and he could say to us, ‘I told you that the copper would be worth it!’,” says Conrad.

On a site of just 153sqm, Conrad and a “skilful structural engineer” engineered a house of 212sqm. The ground floor acts as a “solid plinth” for the levels above and comprises a private home office and guest accommodation, opening to a small front garden. It’s a “continuous ground-plane from the rear courtyard to the front balcony to balance the site typography and make the space feel larger than it is,” says Conrad.

The first floor is the main living level. The floorplan intricately utilises the building envelope for a “light-filled sequence of spaces.

The key feature is a central courtyard that separates the kitchen from the living room, with curved windows that wrap around the bright, verdant space to allow its seamless infiltration into the interior.

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The key feature of the main living level is a central courtyard that separates the kitchen from the living room, and floods the space with bright, natural light

“The central courtyard was an early idea we developed to gather light and segment the living level into zones, which we think is more interesting in a small space, rather than that feeling of just being in one long room,” says Conrad.

The bedroom level, wrapped in a curved wall of copper, screens for privacy without blocking light. This use of copper is a unique pairing with the Sydney sandstone that clads the home’s office plinth. These materials together produce a small, strong building that’s “both defensive and private” on the outside, while the interior offers an atmosphere of substance and warmth with a minimal palette of concrete, exposed timber beams, western red cedar windows and doors, timber joinery and darkstone benchtops.“Living here is like being on holiday,” say the homeowners. “On the living level it almost feels like you’re outside because you see right through the house to the trees outside. And mid-winter, if the sun is shining, it feels like summer inside.”

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The interior palette is minimal, warmed by natural textures such as concrete flooring and exposed beams

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L EG END 1 Entry 2 Study 3 Powder room 4 Laundry 5 Living room 6 Eat-in kitchen/ dining

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P R OJ EC T T E AM ARCHITECTS Studio Johnston, studiojohnston.com.au BUILDER Grid Projects NSW, gridprojects.com.au

STRUCTURAL TEAM Engineer SDA Structures Hydraulic engineer ITM Design Roofing Colorbond Sandstone cladding Sydney Stonemasons Copper double standing seam Craft Metals, ARC Roofing Render Sto Western red cedar doors + windows Windoor Polished concrete Hanson

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Spotted gum flooring Nash Timbers Hydronic heating CWL Plumbing, Bosch Pavers Eco Outdoor FIXTURES & FITTINGS Lighting — living, kitchen, hallway, front + rear terrace, entry, media, bedrooms, study, landscaping Unios/Special Lights Lighting — dining, living, stairs Delta Light/Inlite

Lighting — bathroom, lowerground terrace EST Lighting Oven Bosch Cooktop Bosch Fridge Miele Freezer Liebherr Dishwasher Fisher & Paykel Microwave Panasonic Tap Blanco Sink Blanco Benchtop Euromarble Joinery handles Custom routered

spotted gum or shark nose Joinery Timber veneer, spotted quarter cut Barbecue Future Spec, spotted gum hardwood Feature light — bathroom Mondoluce Basin, mixer, showerhead Yokato WC Caroma Fans Big Ass Fans Artwork Life Interiors, Aquabumps, Stefania Reynolds

WE LOVE THE SYDNEY SANDSTONE AND COPPER CLADDING THAT CREATE A UNIQUE FACADE FOR THIS HOME

The top bedroom level sits above the street and among the verdant trees, providing natural privacy and beautiful, leafy views

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Colour Palette A stark white shell is warmed with timber beams and cognac tones reflecting the copper exterior.

Various shades of grey and beige keep the feel light and airy

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01/ New Orleans Kilim rug. tigmitrading.com 02/ LAMELLA 132 pendant. greatdanefurniture.com 03/ Abing kitchen stool. satara.com.au 04/ Metafora 1979 coffee table. tigmitrading.com 05/ Soniah lamp. tigmitrading.com 06/ Triangle leg table. hayshop.com.au 07/ Pampukh armchair. tigmitrading.com

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Maaemo

Reservoir

WINNER

WINNER

WINNER

2021 Design Matters: Residential Small Home Dwelling Up to 150sqm

2021 Design Matters: Residential Outdoor Space

2021 Design Matters: Alterations & Additions $350,001-$800K

greensheepcollective.com.au

Heritage FAMILY HAVEN

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P R OJ E CT CUMMINGS HOUSE

A considered architectural update has breathed new life into this 1930s home first dreamed up by an Aussie design legend WO R D S N I S H I A M A R AT U N G A P H O T O G R A P H Y A N DY M AC P H E R S O N

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P ROJECT CUMMINGS HOUSE

Cummings House was originally designed by renowned architect Robert Cummings in 1935

ussie architecture buffs may find the name Robert Cummings to be familiar.

Generally credited with bringing modernist architectural approaches to Queensland, Robert Cummings was also well known for establishing the University of Queensland’s School of Architecture. It’s safe to assume he knew a thing or two about architecture. What you may not know is that he designed the original version of the gorgeous abode you see here in 1935 as his family home.

Known affectionately as Cummings House by its occupants, the home was updated in the early 2000s. This renovation involved an upgraded kitchen, an ubiquitous patio and a pool. While the house engaged with its northern views, the renovation had failed to facilitate any cohesion or connection to the landscape.

The family of four who now calls Cummings House home knew the abode was yet to reach its full potential, and so approached Arcke to make it happen. As the

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family’s two children were moving into their teenage years, the family asked the project team to keep the separation of areas top of mind during the upgrade.

“The client provided a brief very much in keeping with our design philosophy of ‘less, but better’. They came to Arcke to explore how to open up the rear of the house to the pool and backyard while still capturing the northern aspect where appropriate,” shares Arcke architect Matt Kennedy. “Due to the heritage restrictions on the house, they favoured treating the renovation with a light and sympathetic approach. They were keen to create a distinct new form while modifying interior spaces to improve spatial relationships.”

When looking at the house from the street, you’d be forgiven for assuming the upgrade was minor in nature. The only glaringly obvious update is the re-instated slender stairwell that pops out to the southern elevation. When moving through the stairs, one seemingly transitions from the inside to the outside at the half landing. From the

DETAILS HOUSE Cummings House LOCATION Alderly, Qld DATE COMMENCED July 2018 DATE COMPLETED January 2019

Arcke was brought in to give Cummings House a modern update and help it reach its full potential

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The new kitchen and living pavilion play an important role in the home’s indoor-outdoor connectivity

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P R OJ E C T CUMMINGS HOUSE

W E LOV E THE CREATIVE AND VISUALLY PLEASING PAVILION SPACE

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Timber was chosen for the home’s interior, to pay homage to its 1930s heritage

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bench at this stop, views from both the inside and outside of the structure are perfectly framed, making it the ideal vantage point to admire the work of the generations of architects who have played a role in Cummings House’s past and present.

The home’s three bedrooms and upstairs bathroom were given a fresh new lease on life during this project. Thankfully, the dwelling’s original footprint still suited the home and its new family, so not many changes were made to its layout. Instead, the project team focused on creating a more seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

The new kitchen and living pavilion play an important role in Cummings House’s indoor-outdoor connectivity. Located at the site of the home’s previous patio, this multi-purpose living space is poetic in concept and detail. It also facilitates contemporary living to a tee. Its living room opens up to the glorious northern views, offering the family a space to blend in with the landscape beyond for contemplation and retreat from the busy lives they lead. The pavilion’s roof form was designed to reference Cummings House’s original aesthetic, turning up to the north-east and down to the harsh western sun. “The pitch of the upturned form rises to meet the angle of the original tiled roof to allow both to comfortably coexist.

The wide, sheltering brim is an external space of its own,

P R OJ E CT CUMMINGS HOUSE The turquoise of the sofa adds a splash of colour in the living room

protecting the jewelled box that is a modest timber pavilion within,” Matt explains. The pavilion succeeds in connecting the home to its landscape seamlessly, while also respecting Robert Cummings’ original design.

Due to heritage requirements, the new and improved Cummings House still includes relatively untouched idiosyncrasies of the original house and celebrates original modernist features to this day. In a nod to the home’s 1930s roots, timber was chosen for its cladding and interiors. Complementary steel facilitates the pavilion’s delicate floating roof. “We worked closely with engineers AD Structure and fabricators Watkins Steel on the contemporary roof form to coordinate an integrated refinement in design and fabrication,” shares Matt. Cool green hues were introduced to wet areas throughout the home to exude a calming ambience, creating a further connection to the surrounding landscape at the same time.

Many of the original home’s internal walls were removed during this project to improve cross ventilation, thereby reducing energy consumption. This also created transparency between spaces and levels, creating a more open, light and bright feel.

“Although the house still sits on generally the same footprint, it had a much bigger impact on the lives of the family,” Matt confirms.

“The project is very special to us as it demonstrates that creating small gestures can fundamentally change a space to provide for calm moments of contemplation.”

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L E GEN D 1 Landing 2 Entry 3 Lounge 4 Dining 5 Laundry 6 Bedroom 1 7 Bathroom 1 8 WC 9 Master bedroom 10 Study 11 Bedroom 2 12 Sitting

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Kitchen Deck Existing pool Entry Store Guest bedroom Bathroom 2 Sunroom Store Bike store Garage

LEFT Light turquoise and grey tiles work together in this bathroom

PR OJECT TEA M ARCHITECT Arcke, arcke.com.au HERITAGE ARCHITECT Ruth Franks BUILDER Bluebird, bluebirddc.com.au

STRUCTURAL TEAM Engineer AD.STRUCTURE Landscape architect Sidonie Carpenter FIXTURES & FITTINGS Tiles Fibonacci Stone Tapware Astrawalker Benchtop Artedomus Joinery Blum Basin Duravit Sink Franke Lights Inlite, Douglas & Bec, Copper Industrial Design

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E D I TO R ’S FAVOU RI T E THE TIMBER CLADDING THAT PAYS HOMAGE TO THE HOME’S 1930S HERITAGE

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PROJECT CUMMINGS HOUSE

Mood Board

01

02 Colour Palette This is the ultimate seaside palette, with loads of timber and white walls dotted with aqua and blue furnishings, while greenery keeps nature indoors. The result is warmth and freshness combined

03

01/ Tepih Neptune rug. globewest.com.au 02/ Gravity pendant. cultdesign.com.au 03/ Suki mosaic tiles. italiaceramics.com.au 04/ Aero rope lounge chair. satara.com.au 05/ Japan three-seater sofa in blue by House of Finn Juhl. danishred.com.au 06/ Navy herringbone blanket. weavergreen.com.au 07/ Sabine charcoal lamp. jameslane.com.au

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PROJECT COLERIDGE

REPURPOSE,

restore

Once an outdated brick cottage, Coleridge House is now a light-filled, modern family home thanks to the clever reworking of its floorplan WO R D S K A R S H A G R E E N P H O T O G R A P H Y TO M F E R G U S O N

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A clever reconfiguration of this home has created a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces

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D E TAI LS HOUSE Coleridge LOCATION Leichhardt, NSW INITIAL BUDGET $750,000 FINAL COST $918,245 DATE COMMENCED March 2018 DATE COMPLETED November 2018

his inner-city, double-front brick cottage had had its fair share of adaptations — most of them poorly planned and some blatantly ugly. “In our client’s words, it was an amalgam of several people’s ideas over many decades,” says architect Nick Bell of Nick Bell Architects. Multiple levels, stepped ceilings, disconnected spaces, outdated finishes, and an under-appreciated garden had resulted in a disjointed and dark interior.

The homeowners, a professional couple with two primary school-age children, purchased this ideally located inner-city property with the hopes of turning it into a lifelong family home … but it would require a lot of clever configurations with their tight budget and big ideas.

“Modern clean lines, natural light and connection to the mature rear garden were important to the homeowners,” says Nick.

“Their brief was comprehensive and their budget limited, so any interventions had to be well planned to make the most of what was already there. They had firstly requested a new and spacious open living area at the rear to spill graciously into the backyard. There was also a desire for upstairs to be better utilised to allow for a second bathroom for the kids and a master walk-in robe. Finally, they wanted a selfcontained granny flat to double as a studio for multigenerational living.”

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W E LOVE HOW THE NEW CEDAR CLADDING COMPLEMENTS THE COLOUR AND TEXTURE OF THE OLD BRICKWORK

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One change that would inevitably solve a few of the homeowners’ requests was modifying the level of the ground floor as well as its configuration.

Relocation of the stairs created space for the downstairs bedrooms as well as a double-height entryway. An existing first-floor balcony was also relocated to raise the ground-floor ceiling height by 1.5m, allowing natural light to flood the living space and access the views to the leafy rear garden and pool. This rear living space was also redesigned in an ‘L’ configuration to create more defined and proportioned spaces, separating the living from the kitchen and dining and creating a seamless connection between the main living area and outdoor entertaining space.

“It is a good example of how a simple reconfiguration of one element can result in several successful outcomes,” says Nick.

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P R OJ E CT COLERIDGE

EDI TO R ’ S FAVO U R I TE THE LIVING ROOM’S DOUBLE-HEIGHT WINDOWS, WHICH FLOOD THE SPACE WITH NATURAL LIGHT AND CONNECT THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR ENTERTAINING SPACES

The rear living space was redesigned in an ‘L’ configuration to create more defined and proportioned spaces, separating the living from the kitchen and dining

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“WE BELIEVE THIS PROJECT IS A SUCCESSFUL EXAMPLE OF HOW SMART AND WELL-PLANNED INTERVENTIONS CAN RESULT IN A VERY SUCCESSFUL CONVERSION OF AN OLD POORLY DESIGNED HOUSE INTO A BEAUTIFUL, MODERN, LIGHT-FILLED HOME” – NICK BELL

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P R OJ E CT COLERIDGE The kitchen now opens onto the dining and living areas, and looks out to the outdoors to create the ultimate entertaining space

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L EGE ND 1 Verandah 2 Hall 3 Bedroom 4 Study 5 Dining 6 Kitchen/kitchenette 7 Living 8 Bathroom 9 Garage 10 Terrace 11 WIR 12 Balcony 13 Lawn 14 Pool 15 Barbecue

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P ROJ E C T T EAM ARCHITECTS Nick Bell Architects, nickbellarchitects.com BUILDER MJH Building Services, mjhbuilding.com.au

STRUCTURAL TEAM Engineer F&L Building Consultants Timber cladding Cedar Sales FIXTURES & FITTINGS Basins Corian Toilets Parisi Sanitary fittings Meir Wall-mounted lights Inlite Tiles Skheme Appliances Neff Exterior lighting About Space Powerpoints, switches Clipsal

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FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Brown leather sofa Coco Republic Dining chairs Space Furniture Coffee table Coco Republic Armchair Coco Republic Rug Designer Rugs Artwork (living room) Kate Banazi Vase (kitchen) Pepe Heykoop, Tiny Miracles Fruit bowl Vitra Bookends Hava Studio Armchair (study) Space Furniture Lamp (study) Nendo Flos Column sculpture Tom Dixon Vase (study) Alessi

A desire to bring together the old and the new inspired the material and colour palette for this home. While much of the existing structure was preserved and reused, new brickwork, cedar BeachClad, Monument longlife roof, aluminium doors and windows, as well as steel detailing added a clean, modern aesthetic to the dated brickwork. Although new, these materials were chosen to “retain the character/texture of the original house but also achieve a contemporary architectural result … the simple material palette saved on costs, and the framed forms of the rear facade gave the project architectural interest,” says Nick.

“We believe this project is a successful example of how smart and well-planned interventions can result in a very successful conversion of an old poorly designed house into a beautiful, modern, light-filled home.

Aiming to reuse and recycle large parts of existing buildings as opposed to demolishing them and starting again is a big contribution we can make as architects to the planet at a time when it is very much needed.”

The interior palette of this home is kept minimal with monochromatic colours, complemented by timber accents

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MoodBoard 01

02 Colour Palette Essentially this is a black and white base with timber accents.

Pops of blue and yellow in the furnishings and artworks maintain a fresh aesthetic

01/ Elegante Terrazzo tile. nationaltiles.com.au 02/ Hee barstool. hayshop.com.au 03/ Hand-turned vase classic no. 59. rocollection.dk 04/ Nobu burnt teak root coffee table. cocorepublic.com.au 05/ Lissoni sofa. fritzhansen.com/en 06/ Okene cushion cover. lorrainelea.com 07/ Bloomingville abstract face vase. p sweetpeaandwillow.com 08/ Brenda armchair. designnation.com.au

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S P O N SOR E D P R OD UC T

SEARCHING FOR SOMETHING

UNIQUE? Add the finishing touch to your grand design with an architectural signature piece

T

he team at Schots Home Emporium specialises in “unearthing the uncommon”, so whether you’re browsing the website or visiting a store, you’ll come across many pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Specifically, you’ll find architectural signature pieces including anything from marble fireplaces and wall art to traditional bathroom vanities and fireplaces.

A one-stop shop for all things home related, Schots offers a vast selection of furniture, bathroomware, hardware, lighting, fireplaces, homewares and giftware as well as outdoor furniture, heating, decoration, pots and tiles.

Perhaps you’re looking to add an industrial aesthetic to your home? Schots has you covered with an on-trend range of concrete outdoor furniture.

If you are going for a more traditional style, Schots offers a wide range of

vanities and tapware to suit any style you can think of, from Hamptons to French provincial. Perhaps you are refurbishing a Victorian terrace? Schots also has marble and timber mantles, fireplace inserts and facias, tiles, hearths and accessories that will fit into this aesthetic perfectly.

Schots also specialises in reclaimed teak for both indoors and out. The team reuses ancient timbers from bridges and factories to make beautiful tables and benches.

The company has just released Calissa, Australia’s first bedroom and vanity ensemble. It creates a seamless experience from bedroom to ensuite.

Of course, we’ve only just scratched the surface in terms of the huge selection of quality home products available at Schots. Take a look for yourself in one of the stores or browse the website to discover the whole range. schots.com.au

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GIVE A NOD The latest from luxury outdoor furniture brand, Tribù

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grand design deserves premium furniture, both indoors and out. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting a Cosh Living showroom, you’ll know that a furniture piece from Tribù fits the bill. Enter the latest collection, Nodi.

Strong yet subdued, the Nodi outdoor sofa makes the perfect addition to any outside set-up. Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the sofa is described as having an “airiness and architectural appeal” due to its curved frame and open weaving in Canax® (a unique combination of natural hemp and synthetic fibres). Comfort was a key consideration during design. It’s achieved with a woven backrest and deep cushions that feature innovative filling that bounces back into shape after many compressions. Despite its durability, the cushion padding feels extra-soft for ultimate relaxation outdoors.

There is also plenty of flexibility with design — Nodi can be adapted to three seating elements and four seat depths. “The beauty of Nodi and its modularity is that there’s an arched back and a rhythm that is quite pretty over two- or threeseater sofa shapes. That flexibility makes it unique and it gives a lot of variety to the way you want to use it,” says designer Glenn Pushelberg.

So if your outdoor space is in need of some new furniture, head on down to your closest Cosh Living showroom and test out the Nodi for yourself. Cosh has showrooms in Cheltenham (Vic), Richmond (Vic), Brisbane, Sydney and Perth. coshliving.com.au

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Kitchens & Bathrooms Take some cues from these innovative design ideas

Designer Wood Marble & White Photography Rix Ryan Photography

165 La Vie en Rose 168 A Mint Renovation 170 Classic in White 172 Limited Space …Endless Design 176 Black, White & Terrazzo

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K I TCH E N

La vie en Rose Pink and white custom cabinetry defines this truly unforgettable space P H O T O G R A P H Y R I X RYA N P H OTO G R A P H Y

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rom their very first introduction, Wood Marble & White knew the client was a kindred spirit. She wanted something beautiful and unique — something the company prides itself on creating and delivering, every time. What was even more special was that the client was not afraid of colour. When the team proposed pink, they were totally tickled pink when she agreed!

The pink-and-white custom kitchen cabinetry in the finished space provides a contemporary and elegant aesthetic that is beautifully continued into the butler’s pantry. The metallic rose gold laminate trim complements the colour palette, increasing its warmth and adding a little shine, which is mirrored in the stunning Lo & Co handles. Electroplated to match the rosegold laminate, along with the subtle touch of rose gold in the Smeg Dolce Range ovens, the handles really help bring it all together.

The exquisitely designed stone semi-circle overhang on the front of the island adds visual interest and provides a clear focal point for the kitchen. The space was set up for the family to congregate, whether that be for entertaining, eating, work or study. Increasing its functionality, the recessed, push-to-open drawers set above the stone offer power and storage for all the entertaining supplies the family could need.

The fi nishing touches were completed to perfection by the client, from the gorgeous black lights overhanging the island to the perfectly selected artwork on the walls, giving it an overall contemporary pop art aesthetic.

The clever design and use of colour provide a talking point for visitors to this stunning home, while the space brings unfettered joy to the adventurous family who dwells within the pink palace.

Designer Wood Marble & White. woodmarblewhite.com.au

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WE LOVE THE BLUSH HUE THAT GIVES THIS SPACE ITS UNIQUE CHARACTER

K I TC H E N

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BATHROOM

A MINT

renovation Minty fresh, modern bathing P H O T O G R A P H Y JAY D O N C A B E P H OTO G R A P H Y

his 21-year-old bathroom has been given a refreshing makeover and now offers a spacious and tranquil space for the homeowners to enjoy. Designline Kitchens & Bathrooms was tasked with the brief of creating a modern room using Trace Mint tiles.

The previous bathroom had a few design flaws, including a lack of space due to a built-in bath taking up the entire wall beneath the windows, a longer vanity with twin sinks, and a toilet positioned between the shower and the bath. The shower door would also open towards the entry door, resulting in the homeowners frequently bumping into each other. Functionality aside, the soft-yellow Laminex benchtop was in dire need of a contemporary revamp.

The team at Designline worked their magic to meet the owners’ brief, delivering a beautiful new space that functions just as good as it looks. The bathroom now boasts a sleek and modern open shower and the toilet has been repositioned to be away from the shower. The custom timber vanity breathes warmth into this space, contrasting the cooling tones of the stunning feature wall offered by the Trace Mint tiles.

The new 1800mm freestanding Caroma bath adds a touch of elegance, completing this home oasis. All that’s left to do is to light a few candles, pour a glass of wine, run the bubble bath and sit back and relax. Designer Jackson Mikhael, Designline Kitchens & Bathrooms. designlinekitchens-bathrooms.com

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Classic IN WHITE A classic English kitchen with Taj Mahal granite and plenty of charm PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN WILLIAMS

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ld English charm meets modern new finishes in this major kitchen renovation courtesy of Kitchens By Design. This space has been given a new lease on life, making the heart of this home beat stronger than ever.

The original kitchen was finished in dark timber and was much smaller as it was enclosed by an internal wall. In order to create a lighter, less-formal and more openplan space, the internal wall was removed to open it up to the family room. A wall at the rear of the kitchen was also removed and a new scullery was placed in the original room occupied by the laundry.

The window above the benchtop was widened to let in more light, which allows for the traditional English-style details to stand out. These include posts, corbels, classical mouldings and framed, beaded doors. The on-bench glass display cabinet is a standout element of the kitchen, along with the island bench that sits centre stage and features plenty of detailing with three beautiful pendants floating above.

Kitchens By Design also worked closely with the owners on the bathrooms, wardrobes, built-in cabinetry in the dining room and family room. The entire process, from concept to completion, was an enjoyable experience for all, with minimal challenges. With this two-year renovation project completed, the owners can finally enjoy their refreshed space for many years to come.

Designer Sue Gillbanks. kitchensbydesign.co.nz

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LIMITED SPACE …

endless design A bold blue kitchen that’s as smart as it is beautiful

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any kitchens are designed with a limited footprint.

This space from Sensational Kitchens maximises the available square metreage by combining clever layout with hightech cabinetry.

The owners of this house wanted to update their kitchen with a contemporary aesthetic and more room to suit their family of four. This was achieved by combining brilliant blue cabinetry with a fierce white backdrop and lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling window to one side.

An open-plan design makes this kitchen feel like part of the living and dining areas it’s sectioned onto. This ensures the space feels larger than it

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actually is, while also allowing for a true hub to form in the centre of the house. In a nod to the home’s heritage, shiplapping was chosen to connect the modern kitchen to the history of the old building.

Timber accents also pay tribute to the world around us and add to the room’s overall design style.

Functionality was key for the new owners. Maximum use of space was achieved with a narrow spice cabinet that has an appliance cabinet hidden behind it. Both sides of the island can be used for storage, under-bench seating and display, with a feature area that allows the owners to really add that personal touch.

Designer Daniel Barns, Sensational Kitchens. sensationalkitchens.com.au

K I TCH E N

W E LOVE THE BOLD AND BRILLIANT BLUE CABINETRY — TRULY INSPIRED

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BATHROOM

BLACK, WHITE

& terrazzo Terrific tiling and striking black details

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BATHROOM

W E LOV E THE STRIKING FEATURE TILES, WHICH MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT YET HAVE A HARMONIOUS PALETTE THAT DOESN’T OVERWHELM THE SPACE

ome wasn’t built in a day — and neither was the stunning bathroom featured here. The homeowners worked closely with the experienced team at Geelong Tiles & Bathware when planning the space, and took ample time to create a unique, well-considered bathroom for their new family home.

From the very beginning, the homeowners were set on a spacious, aesthetically pleasing room that didn’t blow the budget, and they knew their choice in tiles would play an important role in the end result.

The striking tiles are the hero feature of this space, although the original tile selection was very different to the tiles ultimately used in the project. The original floor tiles the homeowners chose had been discontinued, which meant they needed to select a new tile. They couldn’t visit the Geelong Tiles & Bathware showroom due to COVID-19 restrictions, so they had to do the selection over FaceTime. It almost felt like fate in the end, because the terrazzo-look tile they reselected took their bathroom to another level.

The homeowners opted for a simple colour and texture palette to accommodate for multiple styling opportunities. Although the space is predominantly black and white, the warm tones in the terrazzo allow for many seasonal styling changes. This, combined with the matt-black tapware, sleek joinery and the luxurious bath, has resulted in a truly breathtaking space. Builder build2grow. geelongtilesandbathware.com

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The right lighting fixtures can bring so much more to your space.

At Alpha Lighting you will find everything from modern pendants, crystal chandeliers, globes, table lamps, floor lamps and more all in one place. Lighting design services available.

1300 344 829 | sales@alphalightingandelectrics.com.au

alphalightingandelectrics.com.au

The

Source Get down to the nitty-gritty of the functional elements of your home 182 Designer Lighting 190 Play

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Lighting from Milan David Sollecito of Italstyle Lighting Design has travelled to Milan to bring back the latest trends in lighting. Here are some of our favourites...

www.italstyle.com.au 284 Barkly Street, Brunswick, VIC. 3056 | P: 03 9387 5842 | E: sales@italstyle.com.au

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Italstyle Lighting Design

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italstyle_lighting_design

Lighting Design & Distributor of Quality Italian Lighting Brands.

SEE THE

light Clever lighting solutions are turning lighting into an art form and illuminating our homes with designer style like never before WO RD S C A RR OL BA K E R

ighting is a simple way to create a beautiful effect and set the tone and mood within a space. Combining different light sources that work in harmony is what essentially creates a visually balanced space.

The three types of lighting — task, ambient and accent or feature lighting — create these layers of illumination. Task allows you to focus on a job such as working on your laptop, ambient is general overall lighting, and feature lighting creates beautiful shadows and depth and can also be an artform in itself.

Marie Botsis-Premici, co-founder and director of The Montauk

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Lighting Co, says having multiple light sources that give you control over your lighting requirements is the best way to create a home you can enjoy. To illustrate the point, Marie always asks clients to think about the most luxurious hotel room they’ve ever stayed in. “In most instances, the room will have a ceiling light, bedside lamps, a freestanding floor lamp and lights directly above the bed,” she says. “Typically, the lights will be on a dimmer control to customise the lighting — from relaxing with a drink and taking in the view to reading before bed, getting ready in the morning or working at the desk.”

FE AT UR E DESIGNER LIGHTING

Image courtesy of Luxxu. luxurylightingboutique.com

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ABOVE Image courtesy of Lime Lace. limelace.co.uk

Image courtesy of Delightfull. delightfull.eu/uk

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Each room in a house will have different lighting necessities. Many homes these days have large open-plan living spaces. When lighting these often vast interior spaces, there are some important considerations. Marie says it pays to think of a room as a stage and prioritise lighting parts of the room where the action takes place.

“If it’s a large area, consider adding additional layers of light — perhaps sconces on the walls or to flank a fireplace mantle,” she says. “If there is statement furniture in the space, such as a beautiful console, consider adding a table lamp to accentuate the furniture.”

Feature lighting can emphasise and highlight architectural details or other elements. Marie says feature lighting also serves to give each space within an openplan layout its very own character. “Lighting can act as a demarcation of space and really create a focal point for each room,” she shares.

Lighting smaller spaces such as bathrooms is a different story. Marie suggests the best place to start is at eye level.

“Mounting task lighting in the form of wall lights either side of a mirror provides you with shadowless illumination and the best results for your vanity area,” she says. Then comes the process of layering the lighting for different light zones.

Marie advises adding ambient ceiling lighting to assist with boosting the overall lighting in the bathroom. “Think about how you might use the shower area differently to the bath tub corner or the pamper zone,” she says.

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Benit medium sculpted pendant from the AERIN lighting collection for Visual Comfort & Co. montauklightingco.com

The Montauk Lighting Co. brings Australia distinctive, quality feature lighting, created by acclaimed international designers including Ralph Lauren Home, Kelly Wearstler and AERIN through Visual Comfort, Tigermoth Lighting, Haberdashery and Authentage.

Let us help you make a statement in light. montauklightingco.com 08 9380 6239 Featuring the Ralph Lauren Home Cara Large Sculpted Pendant Interiors by KWD Photo by Armelle Habib

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MO NTAUK L IG HTING C O.

F EATU RE DESIGNER LIGHTING LEFT Dorchester picture light by Chapman & Myers for Visual Comfort & Co. montauklightingco.com BELOW LEFT delightfull.eu/uk

MODERN OR ANTIQUE? When choosing light fittings for your home, there are many spectacular contemporary products to create a beautiful designer statement. From fresh orb pendants that illuminate a spot in style to shade pendants in metals that induce an industrial vibe in a space, or shimmering chandeliers that sparkle like a rare jewel, modern lighting has much to offer.

But so too does antique lighting. It can become a signature piece of art, a bespoke feature. However, when sourcing a beautiful preloved light fitting or a lamp, it’s important to ensure it is safe to use. Adele Locke, founder of Mint Lighting Design, says any preloved lighting should be rewired by a lighting professional. “Pre-existing cabling could potentially be unsafe as it can deteriorate over time,” she advises.

When choosing beautiful lighting for your home, Adele says we don’t need to look far to source exquisite fittings.

“There are some things quite unique about the voice of Australian designers that sits beautifully in our homes,” she says.

LET THERE BE LIGHT Thomas Edison was credited with patenting the first electric light bulb back in 1879, but it was Humphry Davy, an English inventor, who created the world’s first electric lamp in the early 1800s. To do this he alternated discs of zinc and copper, interspersed with layers of cardboard soaked in salt water.

This created voltaic piles which he connected to charcoal electrodes (it works like a basic electric battery). This electric arc lamp burned far too brightly, but it was a platform for further lamp light developments.

Lamp lighting has come a long way since then and of late has experienced a resurgence in popularity. Adele believes this is partially due to the proliferation of downlights in contemporary homes. “We are finding many homes are being built with little consideration to lighting design and downlights are the go-to for lighting in the majority of rooms,” she says. “People are going back to lamps and floor lamps so they don’t have to sit under that intense level of lighting.”

The beautiful effects of lamplight form a whole new dimension in a space. Adele says it softens all the shadows in a room, including the shadows on people’s faces. “That reflected light is one of the most delicious effects of lighting we can live in,” she says.

Lamps offer a lot of control over lighting in a space. Table lamps often have drum shades, which spread light equally from the top or bottom, or bell shades, which shine lighter out the bottom, spreading it over a wider area. Floor lamps generally throw light upwards, which bounces off the ceiling.

Adele suggests using lamps to fill dark corners, or using a floor lamp to light up artwork. “Floor lamps with small heads aimed up at the ceiling also create softness, mood and a beautiful aesthetic,” she adds.

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Image courtesy of Made by Pen. madebypen.com

Image courtesy of Beacon Lighting. beaconlighting.com.au

GO WITH THE GLOBE When choosing your globes for lamps at home there are a few simple rules of thumb to maximise both lighting effects and efficiency. Adele says the first is to always use warmwhite light in lamps, and the second is to select quality light globes. “Don’t skimp on price because you get what you pay for. Cheap ones won’t last as long and they can skew the colours in a room,” she explains.

There are many scientific factors in globes that impact lighting. A prominent one is the Colour Rendering Index (noted as CRI on packaging). Adele describes this as the “colours within the rainbow in the light”. Basically it allows us to see more colours in a space. “Use a high-percentage CRI in beautiful interiors — it doesn’t matter so much in the garage unless you really love your car,” she says.

Another point on globes. When installing globes in the ceiling, Adele strongly recommends integrated LEDS. “You don’t want to be looking at light globes — they are not as efficient and they won’t give you the same longevity,” she explains.

In the planning stages of your lighting design, it pays to chat to lighting professionals and the earlier, the better, recommends Adele. “People might think consulting with lighting professionals will mean complex and expensive lighting options, but simple light fittings when applied correctly can make an enormous difference to a home,” she emphasises.

Image courtesy of The Montauk Lighting Co. Interiors by Harper Lane Design and photography

by Ryan Linnegar. montauklightingco.com

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F EATU RE DESIGNER LIGHTING

Image courtesy of Mint Lighting Design. mintlighting.com.au

Image courtesy of Cosh Living. coshliving.com.au

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TAKING IT OUTSIDE Outdoor lighting can generate an enchanting space to entertain, creating cosy warmth and seclusion as well as offering safety and security. CJ Cornish from Cosh Living says it’s an easy way to add immediate intimacy and dimension to your outdoor spaces. “Lighting is an instant mood-maker,” says CJ. “Lighting that has a dramatic silhouette or throws beautiful shadows is an easy way to create artistic, dynamic spaces.”

And according to CJ, choosing the right lighting does far more than that. “Sophisticated lighting eases the transition from indoor to out while continuing the style and attention to detail seen in your interior,” she shares.

If you are looking for temporary or portable lighting solutions for entertaining, there are many options. For one, CJ recommends nesting portable lanterns in a range of sizes and shapes or chargeable cordless LED lanterns with remotes as a simple and elegant way to have flexible settings for entertaining. “If you want a more permanent look, hang outdoor pendants over a dining table to create a luxurious statement,” she says.

There are also some beautiful new designer lighting products emerging with cutting-edge innovation. CJ says they’re seeing lots of incredible weaving technology come through in outdoor lighting. “Sophisticated, strong outdoor materials are becoming available on the market, such as UV-stable recycled plastics and knitted textile cord.”

coshliving.com.au

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FEATURE PLAY Image courtesy of Smithers of Stamford. smithersofstamford.com

Game on

Play time with the family can be anything you want it to be. It all begins with creating flexible play spaces everyone can enjoy WO R DS CA R RO L BA K ER

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hat are some of your favourite childhood family memories?

Impromptu movie nights with Disney movies, popcorn and plumped-up pillows in the loungeroom? Perhaps it was swinging so high on the backyard swing it felt like flying — while dad waited patiently to catch you? Or raiding mum’s linen cupboard while she looked the other way and making a

blanket fort in the playroom with your siblings?

Some aspects of family fun time have changed with the advent of technology. Many homes also have swimming pools and dedicated games rooms for the whole family. But some things have remained the same. It’s the simple things — the sharing, the hugs and the laughter that you want your own kids to experience and remember. Creating family play zones indoors and out is a great way to start.

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FEATURE PLAY

LOEWE TV from Indi Imports. indimports.com

Photography by Coldwell Pro. pixabay.com

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Image courtesy of Out from the Blue (OFTB). Photography by Dean Bradley Photography. oftb.com.au

INDOOR PLAY ROOMS There are many cool options for family play spaces indoors. When designing a play area, architect Luke Carter from Sandbox Studio says it pays to get the whole family onboard so everyone gets to have their say.

“We encourage kids to be involved in some meetings — we discuss any issues and what they’d like in a games room,” he says.

To design a games room that is both functional and comfortable, Luke suggests beginning with addressing issues of natural light and ventilation. “Include louvred windows that encourage natural airflow, or large skylights that allow the space to be flooded with fresh air and natural light,” he advises. Add comfort underfoot with plush floor coverings that offer warmth and resilience. Luke suggests 100 per cent wool carpet. “It’s sound-absorbing, soft and durable, or throw rugs over natural timber floors,” he adds.

Family games rooms can be noisy spaces, so taking measures to reduce the noise impact on other areas of the house is a good idea. A solid-core timber door is advisable, says Luke. “It’s noise-insulating and by adding acoustic seals, which are not a high cost, it can also make a huge

difference,” he says. “A cavity slider can work well so when it’s open it connects to the living spaces in the rest of the house.”

And when planning a space, it’s vital that it’s designed taking into account the furniture you plan to use, urges Luke. “We draw the furniture into the plan and play around a bit to make sure it’s going to fit,” he says.

A media room is a great concept for family movie nights and for the kids to have a space to entertain their friends. But these areas could be designed with a bit more flexibility in mind, says Luke. “By day it could be a games room and with a projector built into joinery or one that drops down from the ceiling, by night it becomes the kids’ own little cinema. It then makes it more of a unique space,” he suggests.

Storage is important in games rooms for board and lawn games, extra blankets and soft furnishings for when kids have sleepovers, as well as for arts, crafts and other supplies. Storage walls in family play spaces are another great concept. Luke explains that these are full-height walls of joinery. “They look neat and sleek but can contain many different types of storage that the kids can take ownership of and organise,” he says.

Image courtesy of Ella James. ellajames.co.uk

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Image courtesy of Out from the Blue (OFTB). Photography by Dean Bradley Photography. oftb.com.au

Photography by Alan King. unsplash.com

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POOL PLAY With a swimming pool and spa in your backyard, summer family fun is well and truly taken care of. James Lascelles from Out from the Blue says the ideal size for a family pool is upwards of 3mx8m — big enough to accommodate a family of four and some friends as well.

When designing a pool with families in mind, there are some fundamental considerations.

First is being able to see the pool from the house and also having ample space inside the fenced pool area. James says this allows adults to easily keep an eye on the kids while they splash about. “Within the fenced pool area, make sure there is one section that’s wide enough for pool furniture for adults to use,” he recommends.

On scorching summer days, pool pavers can become hot underfoot, potentially burning tiny toes. James suggests a textured limestone paver is a good choice. “Stone pavers have plenty of grip and kids will be running around, jumping, pushing, bombing, with bare wet feet, and limestone won’t heat up as much as some other stones,” he says.

Creating fun elements in the pool is also great

for families. These can include water features, which are evolving and becoming more of a design feature. “Often, it’s a simple elegant spout into a pool instead of a sheet of water,” says James.

Another popular idea is widening the first step into the pool, although a fairly large pool is needed to do this. “You create a ledge that’s ankle-deep so you can put sun lounges on it. It’s also good for small kids to get them used to swimming,” he says.

Having plenty of pool toys on hand sets the scene for fun, but as we all know, they aren’t all that attractive to look at when not in use.

The solution, says James, is to discreetly tuck them away. “We often design a small shed that’s screened off,” he says. “It looks beautiful from the front and behind it is room to store pool equipment and toys.”

Spas are another great inclusion. Make sure there’s ample seating to accommodate everyone.

James says kids love jumping from one to the other, so having the pool and spa integrated works well. “If you have a curved ledge, kids can roll over it from the hot spa water into the cool pool water — they think that’s super fun,” laughs James.

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F EATU RE PLAY

Image courtesy of Mr Trampoline. mrtrampoline.com.au

OUTDOOR PLAY Aussies love the great outdoors — it’s where friends and families come together. At home your kids will be jumping for joy, with a huge range of play equipment on offer these days. Things to climb.

Things to crawl into, under and over. Things to dig in. Things that swing and twirl. And things that will appeal to curious little minds.

Joe Andon, Vuly Play founder and CEO, says outdoor play equipment plays an important role in a child’s development. “It facilitates a variety of benefits including improving confidence, gross motor skills, muscle development and strength, spatial awareness and physical fitness,” he says.

When sourcing play equipment, Joe says the most important factors to check out are the safety features of the equipment and the variety of activities the equipment can provide. “Curious children need a safe environment to explore and providing variety in their activities targets different skills,” he says. As children grow and develop, their needs change, so sourcing play equipment that will offer flexibility allows you to make the most of your investment.

Joe says adjustable height and interchangeable features are perfect to increase longevity. “By having a wide variety of age-appropriate accessories and adjustable equipment that can be made taller, the play equipment can be utilised by your children from when they are young all the way up to adolescence.”

Joe says its Vuly Thunder trampoline is arguably the most popular product due to its unparalleled safety features and highly innovative design. “Featuring leaf-spring technology, its springless and padless design makes it one of the safest trampolines on the market,” he advises.

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Image courtesy of Sandbox Studio.

Photography by Katherine Lu. sandboxstudio.com.au

THIS PAGE Images courtesy of Vuly Play. vulyplay.com/en-AU

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Outdoors Exceptional outdoor design and landscaping

Photography Julien Bastien

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SEEING GREEN This garden design took the challenge of a sloping site and transformed it into a tropical green oasis WO R D S K A R S H A G R E E N P H O T O G R A P H Y J U L I E N B A S T I E N

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or many Australians, the beach is an extension of their backyard.

While this Coolum Beach home was some kilometres away from the coast, that didn’t stop Fluid Design and Living Style Landscapes from encapsulating the ocean’s natural beauty in the backyard’s design.

Natural materials and a rich, green, tropical planting palette were utilised to create this relaxed and sophisticated outdoor space. The clients desired a pool area, kids’ retreat, vegetable gardens, connection between front and back, and fi rst-level planter boxes for their home’s backyard. However, to achieve this, Living Style Landscapes would have to battle a 12m fall over the entire site, as well as a significant distance between the house and road.

The kids’ retreat is a highlight of this garden design with a firepit, synthetic lawn and viewing platform to check out the surf

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“The planning and organising of just the materials for this project was extremely challenging and made the project even more complex to complete,” says Leigh Barrett, director of Living Style Landscapes.

The challenging slope and lack of accessibility meant getting materials onto the site using manual labour would be impossible.

Therefore, the team hired a 100-tonne crane with the height and distance to reach the back of the house from the road, while also carrying significant amounts of materials at one time.

“All materials had to be in bags, liftable pallets or cages — they included 35 tonnes of soil, three tonnes of mulch, five tonnes of concrete blend, one tonne of cement, one tonne of drainage gravel, 35 large bluestone steppers, bluestone tiles, synthetic grass, crusher dust and all timber decking slats, posts and framing, including a recycled timber seat,” Leigh reveals.

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ABOVE A rich green tropical planting palette was selected, with an emphasis on large species used for screening and privacy OPPOSITE TOP A spiral staircase is an ingenious space-saving addition

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HIDDEN BEHIND A SCREEN OF LARGE PALMS AND PLANTS, THIS CHILDREN’S AREA HAS RECYCLED TIMBER SEATING AROUND A FIREPIT, SYNTHETIC GRASS FOR PLAY, UNDERCOVER SEATING FOR READING AND HOMEWORK, AND ABOVE IT ALL, A VIEWING PLATFORM TO CHECK OUT THE SURF

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The viewing platform is the perfect place to take in the home’s natural surroundings, with views across the coast and the mountains

With two teenage children, the clients requested a “kids’ retreat” that would provide usable outdoor space, as well as areas for socialising and relaxing. Hidden behind a screen of large palms and plants, this children’s area has recycled timber seating around a firepit, synthetic grass for play, undercover seating for reading and homework, and above it all, a viewing platform to check out the surf.

Sustainability was also very important with this garden design due to the home’s lack of access. “It needed to be done once and last for an extended period of time,” Leigh says.

Extremely low-maintenance and long-lasting materials were used throughout. A cloudbased irrigation system with slow-flow sensor measures all water usage and notifies if any leaks occur, while a weather station measures humidity, wind and temperature to help with smart watering methods.

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“SUSTAINABILITY WAS ALSO VERY IMPORTANT WITH THIS GARDEN DESIGN DUE TO THE HOME’S LACK OF ACCESS. “IT NEEDED TO BE DONE ONCE AND LAST FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME” — LEIGH BARRETT

A combination of natural materials and tropical fauna creates a beautiful coastal vibe throughout this garden design

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An unbeatable view

“THE PLANNING AND ORGANISING OF JUST THE MATERIALS FOR THIS PROJECT WAS EXTREMELY CHALLENGING AND MADE THE PROJECT EVEN MORE COMPLEX TO COMPLETE” — LEIGH BARRETT “Creating useful spaces that feel part of the house is critical,” Leigh says. “The outside must be treated like part of the home with the same design, detail and feel as the inside. We want to create a space that people can come and enjoy, where they can appreciate the greenery, the sunlight on their skin, or just enjoy nature by looking out at the amazing views.” livingstyleco.com.au

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COMPLETEHOME

Inspiration room by room

SE E the latest trends and projects from the country’s top designers and creatives

D IS C OV E R the latest products

ME E T the leading professionals who can help

B E GI N your renovation, no matter how big or small

S ca n here to check it out

C O M P L E T E H O M E.C O M. A U

S HO PPING HOT PRODUCTS

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PRODUCT AND SERVICE

01/ LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE

Review

The Tundr Linear pendant will become the focal point of any entertaining space. Suspended from two ceiling wires (one power supply), and featuring six frosted-glass shades mounted on a solid matt-black steel extrusion, the Tundr pendant appears to be floating effortlessly in space. The brushed-brass detailing ties this beautiful piece together, perfect for any kitchen, dining or living area. alphalightingandelectrics. com.au

02/ BULBOUS BEAUTY The Bulb rattan lamp by Vincent Sheppard creates beautiful shadowplay while adding warmth to your interior. The curvy light comes in two sizes and two colours (pure, natural and black) and is available from Cotswold InOut Furniture. cotswoldfurniture.com.au

03/ PUT A CORK IN IT

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DecoCork panels create natural, bold, unique and beautiful walls that only cork (obtained direct from the bark of the cork oak tree) can offer. Safe and easy to handle and install, the panels can be attached using glue or nails. Made without PVC, softeners or other chemicals hazardous to health or the environment, the panels increase thermal comfort and reduce airborne noise. They’re available in a wide range of colours, so you can personalise your home with a statement wall using DecoCork panels. corkimports.com.au

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04 04/ ARTIST TO WATCH: CHERYL HARRISON Cheryl Harrison’s work is often inspired by the energy and rhythm found in music and nature.

She combines elements from popular culture or life’s everyday events — a word, a triggered memory or a crashing wave on a morning walk.

She calls these her “lifescapes”, many of which often combine heavily impasto paint with thin washes. This mixed-media piece, entitled Resilience, measures 170cm x 170cm and is available to buy from Art Lovers Australia Galleries. artloversaustralia.com.au/artist/ cheryl-harrison

05/ PUT YOUR FEET UP Introducing the Sessel chair and footstool from Himolla. Small and wonderfully comfortable, this little chair and footstool will bring style and grace to any room. Available in an enormous range of leather and fabric colours, prices start from $2999 for the chair and footstool combined. Visit the Himolla website for further information. himolla.com/au

06/ SOLLO BY PEN + NICK RENNIE

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Sollo is a distinguished grande mill intended to create a striking seasoning centrepiece for any meal table. The rotating slender neck sits comfortably in your hand, with the sphere base nestled into the palm of your opposite hand, allowing you to grind with ease. Incorporating the Danish Crushgrind™ mechanism, the leader in grinding technology, Sollo is characteristic of Pen’s contemporary simple design aesthetic. madebypen.com

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SHOPPING HOT PRODUCTS

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07/ MIXING IT UP Zimi is a unique collection of mixer taps, shower mixers and outlets allowing for on-trend colourings through to timeless classic pairings.

It’s a highly versatile range where 27 colour and finishing combinations can be created. Inject your personality with easily interchangeable handles. phoenixtapware.com.au

08/ A MEGA ICON

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Megafono is an iconic 1950s lamp with both direct and indirect light. In the suspension version with three, six or eight arms, a prized brass structure bearing galvanic gilding combines with the directable double-cone lampshades in ivory or glossy black, illuminating the environment with elegance. 6W 2700K E14 LED lightbulbs are included. italstyle.com.au

09/ BREAKING THE ICE Available in Australia from the audio experts at Premium Sound, the new Nordic Ice collection is a curated selection of some of Bang & Olufsen’s most timeless designs in a serene, Scandinavian colour palette of contrasting cool and warm tones. The cool collection features dynamic wireless speakers, powerful soundbars, Bluetooth waterproof speakers as well as wireless earphones and headphones. Head to the Premium Sound website for more information on each. premiumsound.com.au

10/ SUPERB SOUND The new V10+ subwoofer from M&K Sound is an upgraded living room-friendly compact subwoofer with a small footprint and increased power output.

The V10+ delivers an opportunity for consumers to enjoy that legendary deep and accurate bass for which M&K Sound is world-renowned in a compact and affordable package. The new subwoofer allows a wider audience to experience “The Choice of Professionals” and listen to movies and music the way they are meant to be heard. The V10+ subwoofer is available in Australia from Indi Imports. indimports.com

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11/INDOOR/OUTDOOR FLOW Opening up the space between the interior and exterior of the home with wide-opening doors is on the wish list for many homeowners. Outdoor areas that are visible through expansive glass give the feeling of increased living space. Sophisticated lift-slide doors are the perfect solution. Enjoy flexibility and functionality with the choice of lift-slide sliding doors, stacker doors, corner sliders or giant sliders. Custom-made in Australia, double- or triple-glazed doors are draft-proof and feature security locking. These highly energy-efficient products are easily operated with a turn of the handle or can be motorised, even 400kg giant sliders. paarhammer.com.au

12/ A TASTE OF MARRAKESH The enviable styles found in Marrakesh, Morocco, are renowned around the world. Designed to provide an interesting geometrical statement to enhance the entrance to a modern home, the Marrakesh door makes a playful addition.

The contemporary feel to the door is created by the block

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window cut-outs and sleek bar handle. The Marrakesh door is a new addition to the all-red cedar door range by The Woodworkers, which also includes doors with operable panels for ventilation, barn doors, and a collection of standard and oversized Hamptons-inspired creations. woodworkers.com.au

13/ STYLISH SASHLESS WINDOWS Sashless windows are a stylish choice for a variety of applications around the home. The Duce range of sashless windows is stunning. The frame of the specialty windows showcases the natural beauty of hand-selected A-grade timber, while the sashless planes of glass offer full, unobstructed viewing. They are custom-made for any opening. Find more information

on Duce sashless windows online. duce.com.au

14/ LIFT THE LID ON INFRARED CROSSRAY® barbecues redefine the outdoor cooking experience.

Like cooking over a bed of red-hot coals, they provide even heat while reducing flare-ups to produce tastier and juicier food. This is achieved using patented infrared cooking technology and includes both gas and electric versions, in portable, in-built and outdoor kitchen options. Setting the benchmark for outdoor kitchens is the new CROSSRAY® 4B-S Series.

Offering a high-end outdoor cooking experience without the hefty price tag, upgraded corrosion-resistant cabinets provide the perfect platform for the new sintered stone benchtop. crossray.com.au

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EX PERT IN FO C US DR DAVID HENDERSON What does your role entail?

Along with the CTS team, I test everything to do with severe wind event damage, from broken screws to complete houses. Specifically, we undertake “damage surveys” following severe weather (such as cyclones, tornados, thunderstorms and hail) so that we can determine the good and bad features of traditional homes and the materials used to make them. We conduct tests in the lab to develop appropriate codes and standards for designers, builders and manufacturers. The CTS team deploys anemometers in the path of cyclones crossing the coast to measure the wind impacting homes and to understand the forces homes need to withstand.

Why do you think this type of research is important?

Severe wind events damage and devastate communities in Australia and worldwide.

We investigate wind events and conduct research so that buildings can be designed to resist severe wind loads and driving rain.

What are some recent findings you have made?

Refer to figure 3.1 (A)

One House to Save Many One House to Save Many is a prototype house created to withstand a variety of extreme weather events. The house was produced by Suncorp and designed in collaboration with James Cook University’s Cyclone Testing Station, Room11 Architects and the CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency. Learn more by searching onehouse.suncorp.com.au

Despite being built to resist wind loads, a lot of the damage to the interiors of contemporary buildings is due to wind-driven rain. However, this is assuming that these buildings can resist wind loads if a window or door fails, causing a sudden opening in the building envelope, allowing the wind pressure inside and greatly increasing the load the house has to resist. The test is to identify if the structure can remain intact and protect the occupants. Houses in Wind Region B have not typically been designed for this, as highlighted by the recent impacts from Tropical Cyclone Seroja that damaged homes and buildings. We found that these houses were not designed to resist the large loads that occur when the building is pressurised from an opening on a windward wall.

What could these discoveries result in?

WEATHER

the storm Dr David Henderson is the chief research engineer of the Cyclone Testing Station (CTS) in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at James Cook University. We chat to him about severe wind events research and One House to Save Many E D I T E D BY A P R I L O S S I N G TO N P H O T O G R A P H Y A N D R E A S S M E TA N A , C R E A M E L EC T R I C A R T, P R O D I G I O U S & G E T T Y I M AG E S

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Improvements in design and construction for homes and other buildings.

What are some of the main problems with Australian houses when it comes to being cyclone-resilient?

Contemporary houses built to current standards are generally designed and constructed with the minimum requirement for strength. They are usually not designed to keep wind-driven rain out, which results in damages to interiors such as collapsed ceilings, wall and floor linings and contents. Most doors are not wind-rated and there is little protection for windows from winddriven debris.

Our houses are complex systems that have many components. They need to be maintained so they can keep people safe and remain functional during

severe storms. Just like our cars, buildings need regular checks and maintenance.

Inspections of the building’s structure and cladding, along with pest inspections, should be undertaken before its purchased or leased.

Then inspections should occur at regular internals every few years.

What was your role in One House to Save Many?

Along with the The Cyclone Testing Station, my role was to provide guidance on the design for mitigating damage from severe wind loads, wind-driven debris and wind-driven rain, based on the CTS’s research during many years. The CTS conducted various tests to demonstrate the issues of dynamic wind pressure load cycles to roof cladding, wind-driven debris impacts to walls, and the amount of rain water that can be driven into homes. The mitigation measures such as wider and secure flashings, debris screens and robust doors that were used in One House to Save Many, can be used on existing homes today.

Why do you think this is an important initiative?

It’s important to raise awareness about the damage that can be caused to homes and buildings as the result of severe cyclones and storms. This message is important for everyone from homeowners, builders and designers to regulators and manufacturers.

It is an excellent platform for engaging with people to raise awareness of improving the resilience of their homes.

What have you concluded from embarking on this research and how can it be applied to the building/architecture industry?

The aspects for mitigating damage from wind load, wind-driven debris and wind-driven rain are all existing techniques and methods that can be applied to buildings now.

When do you think we will be able to start implementing these strategies in residential buildings on a regular basis?

The design strategy of protecting the building envelope can be used now in existing homes and new builds.

What are some simple things that a homeowner, builder or architect can do to make their new build or renovation more cyclone-resilient?

Look beyond the minimum requirements in the building code and employ additional strategies to make your house more resilient. Protect the building envelope — for example, use robust, cyclone-rated window shutters or screens.

Lastly, undertake regular maintenance of your home. For more information, visit weatherthestorm.com.au/#/

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E XPERT ADVIC E ARCHITECTURE

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IMAGES The old Sydney Hospital designed in the 1800s by Thomas Rowe

humanity

THE OF ARCHITECTURE

Found in the most unexpected of places …

WO R D S P E T E C O LQ U H O U N P H O T O G R A P H Y G E T T Y I M AG E S

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recently spent a week in hospital, my eyes closed most of the time. I must confess, it was very challenging.

The one comfort I found was listening to the sound of other people’s voices. Above all, it was the presence of the nurses, whose skill, professionalism, dedication and compassion were humbling. I do not overstate this.

The hospital room is a square pragmatic space, with four beds occupied by strangers.

The sound of steel trolleys on the flat lino floor tells me that everything is designed for simple, no-frills functionality. I will admit, as a design professional, I was more confident with the nurses and doctors than the decor.

When I closed my eyes during this time I did not think of grand buildings, special architecture or amazing homes, but the faces of those close to me. I questioned the priority I put on design and architecture in times of real need — what purpose does it actually serve? It is said that great design must have an element of humanity. Yet in this bland hospital ward, humanity was everywhere and it wasn’t brought on by design, but by the people.

During this time, because of COVID-19, patients were not allowed to have visitors, which made the experience all the more daunting. The nurses stepped up again, consoling patients, no matter who they were.

After a few days I was able to go downstairs and get some fresh air. When I emerged into daylight, I stepped into one of the most beautiful courtyards in Australia. It is the rear of the old Sydney Hospital designed in the 1800s by Thomas Rowe. Here, for generations, both prince and pauper have strolled, sat and convalesced in a beautiful Italianate-style piazza, complete with a central water fountain and coffee stand. Suddenly I realised the city founders had gone to the effort of building something grand. Is this an example of the power of architecture? Is this the meaning of why we make an effort to design beautiful things? The stonework, the detailing, the ornate balconies, fountain and spires combine to create a special space that lifts the spirit and perhaps, in its own way, heals.

After a few days I sat in the courtyard and tried to sketch, which for me is the only real

way of understanding and appreciating a space. I believe that all creatives wishing to design should pick up a pencil and, however crude, rough or naïve, make a mark and decipher what is in front of you. One evening I had a chat with the security guard at the entrance door. Despite having no design training, he knew the courtyard and the building’s framing were special. He was keen to learn why, so I launched into the principles of Italianate revivalist design.

Back up on the ward, one of my favourite

nurses was talking about retirement and has recently been left a sizeable inheritance. She is single and tossing up whether to move to Italy or Greece as she had travelled there years ago and the romance had never left her. Then again, she says there’s a beautiful spot on the North Island of New Zealand where she could build her dream home and have some land.

She may have been imagining a simple rectilinear house with a gable and smoking chimney. Like the courtyard outside, it’s a

vision of a safe, beautiful refuge. She speaks of simple things such as a window catching sunlight, a glimpse of nature, maybe even some water. I can hear her spirit lift when she speaks about it. However humble, it is her grand design and I know it will be imbued with the most important feature of all — humanity. And I am happy for her.

Thank you to all the hospital staff and front-line health care workers whose work and humanity is the most important thing of all and truly inspiring.

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i

n 2015, world leaders from 193 United Nations member states adopted 17 sustainable development goals and pledged to accomplish them by 2030. The main objectives of sustainable development goals (SDGs) are to “end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all”.

SDGs are ambitious, but they also recognise that current global challenges such as climate change and inequality cannot be tackled in isolation. The goals aim to address root causes, structures and connections between these issues in order to develop lasting solutions through education, health and income. SDGs are a blueprint for a more peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world.

LIST OF UNITED NATIONS’ SUSTAINABLE GOALS: GOAL 1: GOAL 2: GOAL 3: GOAL 4: GOAL 5: GOAL 6: GOAL 7: GOAL 8: GOAL 9: GOAL 10: GOAL 11: GOAL 12: GOAL 13: GOAL 14: GOAL 15: GOAL 16: GOAL 17:

No Poverty Zero Hunger Good Health and Wellbeing Quality education Gender equality Clean water and sanitation Affordable and clean energy Decent work and economic growth Industry, innovation and infrastructure Reduced inequality Sustainable cities and communities Responsible consumption and production Climate action Life below water Life on land Peace and justice, strong institutions Partnerships to achieve the goal

IMPLEMENTATION OF SDGS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

BUILDING TOWARDS

sustainability United Nations’ sustainable goals WO R D S C H R I S K N I E R I M P H O T O G R A P H Y G E T T Y I M AG E S

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According to the latest global report, the construction industry is responsible for the consumption of 30 per cent of natural resources and 38 per cent of total greenhouse gas emissions. It comes as no surprise that the sector has been in the spotlight in global conversations about sustainable development. So how can construction play a part in the SDG 2030 agenda?

What goals apply and how can companies prioritise and implement them successfully?

Let’s explore five key SDG targets that are connected to construction (directly or indirectly) and how the industry can play a part.

GOAL 1: NO POVERTY Job creation is essential for poverty eradication.

For decades, construction has contributed to the job market more than other industries. While

employment rates have risen steadily over the years, more opportunities are needed to cater to the growing global population.

Sustainable construction practices have the potential to unlock massive job creation and foster an enabling environment for other sustainable enterprises to thrive. The ILO predicts that more than 24 million green jobs will be created in 2030, which will be more than enough to offset losses in traditional industry.

GOAL 7: AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY The current construction energy model is unsustainable. In 2018, buildings and construction industry accounted for a whopping 36 per cent of fi nal global energy consumption from fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas), and 39 per cent of CO2 emissions. Goal 7 encourages the use of renewable energy such as solar, wind and hydroelectric energy to reduce emissions and support sustainable building design.

On the bright side, the cost of renewables has gone down and investment has quadrupled, paving the way for a netzero future for the industry.

GOAL 9: INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE Goal 9 seeks to promote sustainable

industrialisation, innovation and infrastructure. Most innovations in construction emerged during the industrial revolution, yet the sector has been slow in adopting new technologies. Its processes remain widely inefficient and detrimental to the planet.

Sustainable innovation in construction is not only crucial for environmental protection, it can also be a source of competitive advantage and value delivery. New gamechanging technologies in AI, 3D printing, virtual and augmented reality, internet of things and robotics are at the forefront of this shift and have the power to transform every part of the building business, from design to site management.

To take advantage of these promising technologies, the industry requires a change in mindset and more investment in research and development.

GOAL 13: CLIMATE ACTION This goal prompts members to “take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts”. In the last decade, many sectors have come to grips with the impact of climate change and the construction industry is no exception. Extreme weather has led to work safety concerns, project delays and higher insurance costs, which have put a dent in profit margins. By implementing clean extraction, production and building

practices, the sector can play an active role in the fight against climate change.

GOAL 15: LIFE ON LAND Goal 15 promotes sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and calls for a halt to deforestation, desertification, land degradation and biodiversity loss. This requires a unified approach from all sectors of the global economy, including construction.

Every facet of the industry impacts land and natural habitats for plant species and wildlife, so stakeholders have a responsibility to minimise ecological damage. Avoiding sensitive sites, creating buffering areas, and integrating new habitats in construction through techniques such as green roofing can assist in recovery of ecosystems.

Through SDGs, the construction industry has the opportunity to repair its poor reputation of being one of the most environmentally damaging industries.

By implementing sustainable design, procurement, construction methods and management practices, the sector can show corporate responsibility, empower communities, and protect the environment for the sake of the planet.

Chris Knierim is an international awardwinning designer and industry professional, specialising in designing high-end luxurious bespoke homes. codegreen.com.au

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E XPERT ADVIC E ASK OUR ARCHITECT

Ask Our Architect Editor-at-Large Peter Maddison answers your questions

North Balgowlah House from Grand Designs Australia Season 6 Episode 7

confident about achieving all the amenity we’ve dreamt of, compared to being hampered by an existing layout and a building which is looking pretty tired. If you were to ignore the cost of one against the other, in your opinion is it worth going through the hassle of hanging on to a rundown bit of history?

Assuming your Mid-Century house has integrity, i.e. was designed by an architect and was built with unique and quirky features from the period (lounge pit, window wall, shag pile, pampas grass wallpaper, terrazzo and/or parquetry flooring etc) then yes indeed, it could be worth restoring. There is growing demand for this period of house not only because it is nostalgic and fun, but they work really well, generally oriented to the north, with floor-toceiling glass that brings the outside in. There is a certain spirit in this period of house which is being sought after and the value of which I can only see increasing. I’m counting on this because I live in one!

A

Q A Q

Due to the current boom in property prices, I’ve decided to move to the coast where housing is marginally cheaper.

I’m only 28 years of age but keen to buy a beach shack and do it up. What style of building should I look for that might give me the best renovated result? Are there any guiding principles?

I think I can afford a $1m property and have a long horizon time to renovate. I’m single and I have a dog.

My recommendation is to buy in an established part of a seaside town, rather than a new estate. Ideally you could buy a humble but sound building that doesn’t have structural problems, and I would work step-by-step, taking on one renovation project at a time. For example, polish the floorboards, do up the garden, paint the inside of the house and so forth. The more work you can do yourself rather than employ trades, the cheaper it will be. Can you enlist family members to help you in exchange for a beach holiday?

A

We have a Californian Bungalow in Caulfield, Melbourne. It’s in good condition and we don’t intend to renovate, but we want to help the environment. Where do we start?

I’d consider installing a photovoltaic power collection system on the roof, the power from which can be stored in a discreet wall-hung battery such as Tesla, for instance. The power, when stored, goes through an inverter and can be used at any time of day. You could even charge your EV (electric vehicle) overnight. Alternatively, without a battery system, the power is only available when the sun shines. This is obviously a cheaper solution and could work well for you if you or your partner are planning to work from home during the day.

Q

We live in Melbourne and are distressed about the proliferation of poorly designed buildings, particularly faceless high-rise apartment buildings in and around the city. Our fear is that the community connection that has been so much part of the Australian lifestyle is slipping away. How can we stop this happening?

I appreciate your concern and agree that the controls on developments to date have been focused on setbacks, height controls and building regulations, rather than aesthetics and user experience. You’ll be pleased to know that very recently the City of Melbourne announced a number of design review panels that all medium-to-large developments now need to pass through to ensure there is design integrity and community amenity, particularly at the ground plane in every development. They are: The Melbourne Design Review Panel and The Design Excellence Advisory Committee. To find out more, see https://architectureau.com/articles/city-ofmelbournes-two-new-design-advisory-bodies/

A

Q

On Restoration Australia on ABC TV, there was a terrific episode recently on a Mid-Century house in Beaumaris, Victoria. My wife and I have just purchased a similar home near Beaumaris, built in 1960, but we’re wondering about the value of renovating/restoring, compared to knocking down and starting again. Starting with a new slate appeals to us, because we’re

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Q&A — Need Peter ’s Help?

Email your queries to homedesign@umco.com.au

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