Home Base Magazine Issue 01 - Summer 2014-15 by Home Base

HOT RIGHT NOW! Get your home summer ready

Our experts reveal easy steps to create your dream kitchen

WIN

Sustainable living never looked this good

AN OZCOOLROOM VALUED AT

$3,400

An Everyday Masterpiece The Beauty of Art; The Quality of Caesarstone® New Calacatta Nuvo™ www.caesarstone.com.au

SECTION SUBSECTION

Awarded

Best Retailer By Window Coverings Association of Australia (WA) Decor Blinds & Curtains by Curtain Decor has a long and proud history of product excellence and customer service. This family business, established in 1974, has received numerous awards and accolades for achievements in customer service and innovation in product design and standards. At Decor Blinds & Curtains we believe this is attributable to our in-house manufacturing and installation, allowing us to implement stringent quality control checks. We only use the highest quality components, guaranteeing a long life of trouble-free operation. Thousands of satisfied customers are testament to our industry-leading experience and expertise. We provide a pre-product planning and design service, available to you before you start the building process. This will allow you to incorporate your products and their operation into the design of your home, and more importantly, your lifestyle. We offer “off the plan” project costing so there are no surprises and you are in control. To experience the whole range and quality of our finish, visit our idea showrooms today. It’s not just what we do, but the way in which we do it. We are big enough to matter, but small enough to care.

T: 9374 6533

Homebase sHowroom

Stand 45, 55 Salvado Road, Subiaco, WA 6008 Architect, Designer and Commercial enquiries welcome. T: 9374 6500 commercial@13004decor.com.au

www.13004decor.com.au

WINDOW COVERINGS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA (WA)

SUBSECTION SECTION

YOUR STRATCO OUTBACK® PATIO IS DESIGNED WITH… SECTION SUBSECTION

Strength, quality, ease of installation and a huge range of styles, colours and sizes. Check out our great range of Stratco Outback® Patio online or visit a display centre at your local store!

Ph: 1300 145 145 stratco.com.au

6 Scan this QR code to see how there’s more to life under a Stratco Outback.

CONTENTS

Contents Spring / Summer 2014

Trade Secrets – Products and services we love

Trend Forecast – Take a look at the items experts say will make it to our lust-have list in the coming months

Summer Revamp – Interiors expert Rebecca Sheridan shares her favourite new season finds

Summer Sizzlers – These bright and happy pieces are hot right now

Hamptons Style – Find out why Perth is in love with this gorgeous trend

40 Designer Style – Take a look inside the home of blogger and design guru Lisa Quinn-Schofield 48

Seaside Sustainability – This clever home is designed to blend in with its surrounds and uses a range of ingenious eco-friendly ideas

Cover Story – This light-weight home is a heavy weight in the design stakes. Prepare to be inspired

Dream Kitchens – Looking to create the perfect space to cook and entertain? We asked our resident expert to share her top tips

CONTENTS

72 72

Bathroom Bliss - Planning is the key when it comes to creating the ideal bathroom

Surface Area – Our guide to choosing the best bench top to suit your needs

Competition - Win a coolroom

Planning – How to survive pre-start

Going Green – What is an eco-friendly house?

Show Stoppers – If you want your house to stand out from the crowd, check out our amazing ideas for adding wow factor

Green Dreams – Get the lawn you always wanted, even if you have to fake it

100 Double Glazing – Everything you need to know about this product 102 Perfect Pods – Extend your home without the hassle of a big build 106 The LED Revolution – Lighting your home with style 108 Feature Garden – Take a stroll outside with of one of Perth’s favourite landscape designers

112 Outdoor Wow – Amp up the style at your place with these clever ideas 116 Pools – Take the plunge 118 Directory – On display at Home Base

106

OUR COVER LOOK

Check out this clever light-weight house designed and built by The Rural Building Co. Proving alternative construction methods do not equal design compromises, we guarantee you will fall in love with it.

116 8

Add a touch more personality to your home.

Meet Midland Brick’s Handmade range.

We call the deep rustic textures found on each brick in our Handmade range, ‘character lines’. And that’s just what they are. Every brick is individually formed, giving it its own unique personality. With distinctive colour blends to choose from, they’re a perfect way to add character to any building. Whether you’re building a Colonial style home, a country retreat or a contemporary city apartment, our unique Handmade range

Colours and textures are indicative only due to limitations in photographic and printing processes.

can help create a timeless and individual look. Plus, with all the qualities of natural clay brick, you can feel assured knowing the look will last from generation to generation. For more inspiration and information about our unique Handmade range of bricks and pavers, call Midland Brick on 13 15 40, visit us online at www.midlandbrick.com.au or drop into a Midland Brick Centre.

MBC9248

SECTION SUBSECTION

Display built by Rural Building Company

Build with ScyonTM , live better Welcome to the Urban Retreat. This display home in Baldivis was awarded both Best Display Home & The Greensmart Energy Efficiency award in 2014 at the Western Australia HIA Awards. This design is solid proof that enegry efficiency and breath-taking modern styling can create an award winning home. ScyonTM cladding was used to create open areas and architectural features such as a skillion roof and overhanging facade. ScyonTM building products are made from an advanced cement composite that won’t rot or warp and is termite and fire resistant*.

Building with Scyon can help create more internal living space, compared to double brick.

Scyon Matrix cladding with vertical express joints creates a modern commercial appeal.

Visit us at Home Base - Area N212 | jameshardie.com.au 10

* When installed and maintained correctly and to the extent set out in James Hardie’s published literature current at the time of installation. © 2014 James Hardie Australia Pty Ltd ABN 12 084 635 558 ™ and ® denotes a trademark or registered mark owned by James Hardie Technology Limited.

Captivating exterior design can only be rivalled by the exciting interior.

Scyon Stria cladding creates deep shadows for that contemporary look.

EDITOR’S LETTER

Welcome to Home Base! T

he arrival of warm spring weather always brings a sense of excitement to anyone with an interest in home building, renovating or decorating. Let’s face it, everyone seems more motivated to get busy around the house during the warmer weather and there’s always the added incentive of Christmas and the silly season being at our doorsteps. Whether you are thinking about building a new home, looking to renovate or even just to make some minor improvements, you will find this launch edition of Home Base magazine jam packed with inspiration and great advice. We hope you will enjoy reading and learning about the virtues of cool rooms, the best ways to choose a suitable bench top, ideas for adding wow factor to your home and the secrets to creating a perfect bathroom. Our experts on the ground have also sourced some gorgeous new season products to bring some instant sparkle to your place and we take a sneak peek into three amazing Perth properties and the garden of one of Perth’s best landscape designers. There are literally hundreds of great products and services on display at Home Base and our new magazine is designed to give you a snapshot of what is on offer. You may not know that we also run education courses on topics such as becoming an owner-builder, sustainability, garden design, property investment and kitchen and interior design to name just a few. Before you sign up with a builder or enlist tradespeople to help with your renovation, take some time to visit us at Home Base and see what is on offer, we guarantee you will leave full of excitement and ready to attack your new project with gusto.

Outdoor Wow p112

Perfect Bathrooms p72

The Home Base team

Summer Revamp p28

Editor Kristen Watts Design Renata Perino Creative Direction Richard Keenan, Bain Media Home Base General Manager Gino Premici Home Base Group Marketing Manager Tamara Day Home Base Area Manager Carol Stanley Home Base Magazine Advertising Sales Manager Licia Salomone, OKeefe Media 0412 080 600, Licia@okm.com.au Contributors Amanda Lewis, Carly Barrett, Jason Thomas, Rebecca Sheridan,

Soft Touch p32

Lisa Quinn-Schofield, Kathryn Sprigg, Lanie Sims

NEWS

TRADE SECRETS Take a sneak peek at the insider’s guide to some of this season’s standout products.

The Wardrobe Man’s new FEG wardrobe system is versatile and stylish.

Colorbond is Australia’s favourite roofing choice.

Get sorted Anyone who feels a sense of achievement by having an organised home will fall in love with The Wardrobe Man’s new FEG wardrobe systems. Direct from Milan, the home of fashion and design, the systems offer a high end wardrobe and storage solution that includes anodised aluminum wall upgrights, combined with back panelling and support shelves. Who ever thought storage could be this stunning?

Fan-tastic New from the company known for its no-nonsense, gigantic fans, is the Essence model. It is the first Big Ass fan to be suitable for indoor and outdoor commercial use. One Essence fan can do the work of more than 24 standard 1.3m ceiling fans at a fraction of the operating costs.

Did you know? A whopping nine out of ten new Australian homes feature Colorbond steel. The iconic product has evolved into one of the world’s most advanced building materials since its launch 45 years ago. The product, which is available in 22 colours designed to give a nod to the Australian landscape, is used not only as roofing material but also for walls, guttering and fencing. Turn to page 56 to check out the amazing light-weight home awarded two Housing Industry Association awards this year, featuring a Colorbond roof.

Shape your space with Imagecrete decorative concrete Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re simply renovating or re-inventing your environment entirely, our stylish and versatile concrete will bring life, charm and character to living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, gardens and beyond. www.imagecrete.com.au Concrete 132 662

NEWS

Relax at home Now you can holiday at home, thanks to a clever concept developed by Matt Lihou from Australian Outdoor Kitchens. The swim-up pool bar is the ultimate in resort-style living.

Kick back Forget about spending all summer sweltering under your pergola. Relax in comfort thanks to Stratcoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s innovative Cooldek insulated panels. Cooldek provides a roof, insulation and ceiling-like finish all in one product, with superior spanning capabilities and outstanding cooling performance.

& WINE ROOMS

CELEBRATING

24 YEars

oF cool lIVING

21 YEars

aT HomE BasE suBIaco

24 YEars

DIsTrIBuTor

The NEXT BIG COOL idea for your Kitchen & Alfresco Coolrooms are perfect for entertaining as well as for every day use. You can store anything and everything you can in a normal fridge or dry pantry - cereals, cans, meat, fish, fruit, vegetables and even dry foods such as flour and sugar. (No more weevils!!). Also perfect for bulk drinks, salad platters and trays of fruit. Plus food will always last longer and keep fresher than in a conventional fridge. With 24 years experience in installing coolrooms in residential homes, our coolrooms are unique. They are also very different and more efficient than commercial coolrooms in many ways: • Quiet as a normal fridge - 40 decibels • Very efficient with running costs from under $90 a year! • Requires NO plumbing or drainage • Hardly requires any cleaning or maintenance • Condensation never builds up

SEE US AT HOME BASE SUBIACO, 7 DAYS PLEASE CALL 0424 892 838, 7 DAYS

www.ozcoolrooms.com.au cool@ozcoolrooms.com.au

Dulux says greige will be a popular choice for the new season.

LOOKING AHEAD

trend

forecast What’s in store on the homefront for 2015? AMANDA LEWIS asked the experts. TRADE TALK Expect to see a move away from luxury and excess to pared-down, minimal design

including the “esky” method — light-weight

— or “pauperism” as it has been coined —

framed walls (or reverse brick veneer) with

according to a trend overview from Milan’s

double glazed windows to achieve minimal heat

Salone del Mobile 2014 (Milan Furniture Fair).

loss or gain.

Colours in 2015 will also take their inspiration

He says the use of imported prefabricated

from materials, with copper the most popular

products like cabinets will also rise, while a

hue at the renowned trade fair, seen in reddish

bigger variety of cladding will become available

and purple shades as well as petrol green.

to counteract the growing demand for

As for kitchens, materials including precious

light-weight framing.

woods and scratch-and-stain-proof

“Brick manufacturers are responding to this trend

treatments for metals, marble and rare stones

with brick facings that can be attached to

are forecast, as well as designs that blend

light-weight frames so you still get that brick

country and modern elements.

look,” he says.

The trend towards creating bathroom

As for bricks, Midland Brick product development

sanctuaries, seen over the past few years, will

manager Alf D’Angelo says the company’s new

also continue.

slimline Contempo brick (290 x 90 x 47mm),

DESIGN, BUILDING AND MATERIALS

already popular with architects, is expected to be a hit when it is released to the general public later this year.

Solar-passive and sustainable design continue

“We are also seeing concrete blocks which are

to gain momentum in 2015, according to

normally used in a commercial setting being

Ecohabit Homes director Adrian Fratelle.

used in more residential projects with excellent

Mr Fratelle says people will become more

results,” he says. “Stone has most definitely

accepting of alternative construction methods

captured the imagination of WA builders too.”

LOOKING AHEAD

DECORATING Say goodbye to shiny surfaces in favour of raw materials that provide a more authentic and softer style, according to Tucker & Negus Interior Design’s Matt Tucker. He says matte finishes, industrial-styled pieces, craft homewares, organic shapes and textures derived from nature will all be key looks in 2015. “Think botany, insect prints, fossils, bone, wood, bark, stone and organic shapes,” Mr Tucker says. “We are also leaning towards steel, copper, pewter, gold and other metal accents in preference to just chrome and steel.” As for colours, Mr Tucker expects everything from muted pastels, smokey greys, soft neutrals and metal hues to rich leather and marine tones as well as jewel and fruit colours. “Prints and pattern are definitely back on the rise too,” he says. “On one side we see fluid-looking prints, peacock feather patterns, photographic images, graded dip-dye designs, text, blurred images, florals and tropical prints. “On the other side we see strong geometric designs, 3D patterns, repeated forms, kaleidoscopic images and patterns inspired by cells and molecules.” Natalie Fermoyle, interior designer at Bella Life Style Interior Design, says there will also be a transition from industrial vintage to luxe vintage

Dulux gives a nod to painted timber, metallics and natural tones.

“We are also leaning towards steel, copper, pewter, gold and other metal accents in preference to just chrome and steel.”

SUBSECTION SECTION

“expect muted pastels, smokey greys, soft neutrals and metal hues to rich leather and marine tones, as well as jewel and fruit colours”

LOOKING AHEAD

decor featuring accents of geometric pattern in art, fabric and wallpaper, as well as polished

Dulux says even browns will make an appearance again this year.

stone, glass and mirrors and custom-made and bespoke timber furniture. Rebecca Sheridan, of Rebecca Sheridan Interiors, says neutrals and raw materials will also be important, while popular colours will be sea blues, aqua, purples, pastels and fresh spring greens. “There will be a pull towards surfaces and pieces with a raw, natural look — stones, concrete, timbers,” she says. “These differing elements and surfaces will all be paired together.”

PAINT Dulux colour expert Bree Leech says 2015 sees subtle shifts in paint colours — yellow moves to orange, blues become moody and deep and pink becomes soft and pale. She says neutrals are set to feature alongside white and washed-out greens and greys, while green will come through with a strong organic influence. “Neutrals that are greyed — often referred

Specialty paint effects, such as this blackboard finish by Dulux, are hot property.

to as ‘greiges’ — are the hottest hues,” Ms Leech says. “Try Dulux Pipe Clay, Beige Royal Quarter and Limed White for this look. “We even see brown making an appearance in trends which we haven’t seen since the early 2000s.”

Reece Kado Lure freestanding oval bath in black and white $2274. Reece Ram Yeva basin mixers

LOOKING AHEAD

BATHROOMS Forget coloured towels, the next big thing in bathroom design is coloured fittings, according to Reece Bathroom marketing manager Daniela Santili. “There are a number of coloured bathroom fittings now available, making it easier than ever to inject a splash of colour into your bathroom space without making a commitment to coloured tiles or surfaces,” she says. Ms Santili says streamlined shapes, thinner edges and open-plan, walk-in and frameless showers will also be more prevalent in 2015. Cassie Dyce, design consultant at WA Assett, The Bathroom Renovators, agrees. “The disappearance of the step/hob into the shower has been coming for a while,” she says. “As the channel waste functionality continues to grow, creating an open-access shower or wet room becomes even more popular.” Ms Dyce also predicts black bathroom fixtures to feature more strongly, while Veejay’s Dave Whitehead says bigger showers, longer vanities and textured tiles are also on the horizon. He says fixtures are shifting from square to softer shapes, while longer vanities and larger showers are being fitted instead of baths and accenting is achieved with texture instead of colour. “For example an entire wall of textured tiles as a feature wall or an entire section of mosaics,” he says. Melanie DeMelt, of Town & Country Designs, says to look out for light natural stones teemed with timber accents on both floors and vanities.

HOMES KIDS’ ROOMS

KITCHENS As homes become smaller to suit lot sizes, expect to see kitchens take on openstyle design elements normally found in apartments, Mr Fratelle predicts. “There is one bench along a wall that has a hotplate and sink in it and is flanked by a fridge and pantry,” he said. “The dining space will be part of the kitchen and maybe the kitchen table is replaced with a high mobile island bench that doubles as a meals table.”

LOOKING AHEAD

SURFACES Surfaces that resemble natural materials are a hot trend for benchtops, splashbacks, wall panels and vanities in 2015. Caesarstone marketing general manager Andrew Dixon says the company’s Sleek Concrete range had the look and feel of concrete but with the durability and ease of maintenance of Caesarstone, while its Calacatta Nuvo line-up — Caesarstone’s interpretation of natural Calacatta marble — had also struck a chord. Laminex Australia group design director Neil Sookee says three key ranges — Essence, Impulse and Real — will influence benchtop and splashback surfaces. He says Essence is made up of cool greys and neutrals, Impulse comprises a fusion of styles, patterns and bold colours, while natural materials like wood and stone are among the Real theme. “The three themes strip back to the bare essentials, encourage mixing colours, patterns and forms and embrace imperfections in natural materials,” he says.

Caesarstone’s new marble inspired Calacatta Nuvo features wide, elegant, cascading, grey veins on a soft white base. Right inset, Laminex prints and colours are on trend.

LOOKING AHEAD

BEDROOM Colour still reigns supreme in the bedroom but in softer hues like violet, coral, pale blues and mint mixed together, according to Forty Winks national merchandise co-ordinator Wayne Borg. As for neutrals, he says light grey and sand accented with colour is a classic look for next summer. “Large stripes, crosses and big spots are all once again a highlight for summer 2015 but geometrical and retro patterns are also seeing a return,” he says. As for furniture, Mr Borg says mix-and-match upholstered bedhead and bases are forecast, in addition to mid-century-inspired furniture and kids’ bunks with clever storage and study options.

BEYOND 2015 … Oval shapes, tactile materials and green and egg colours will be the hottest trends to follow on the homefront in 2016, according to renowned Dutch trend forecaster Lidewij Edelkoort, whose job involves advising big global brands on upcoming trends. Ms Edelkoort, who was the keynote speaker at the recent designEX trade fair in Melbourne, said in her address that colours would become lighter overall and that green, onionskin (naturals, tans, whites and creams) and egg colours — especially white and yolk together in spotted or mottled patterns — would be everywhere in 2016. Rough ceramics, abstract patterns, iridescent homewares, rounded edges, pleats and oval shapes — especially in bathrooms and kitchens — will also be hot, Ms Edelkoort predicts.

DESIGN IDEAS TO TRY AT HOME >

Use stone or timber-look tiles as a kitchen splashback, a bathroom feature wall, a hallway wall or an entire wall up the side of a stairwell for a timeless look, suggests Rebecca Sheridan, of Rebecca Sheridan Interiors. > Ms Sheridan says to add interest to a wall by creating a design with masking tape and painting the sections, or to dress a big curtain with a coloured fabric to try out a new season’s style. > Get creative with ceiling finishes, according to Ecohabit Homes director Adrian Fratelle. “Anything from veneers, laminates and pressed tin can really bring a space to life or create a specific atmosphere,” he said.

Pictured are feature walls in Dulux GlenIris (top) and Windsor (right).

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

“Colour still reigns supreme in the bedroom but in softer hues like violet, coral, pale blues and mint mixed together.”

NEWS

DAY S

Welcome the warmer weather by giving your home a summer spruce up. Home Base design expert Rebecca Sheridan 1. Freedom Wrapped ceiling pendant shares her favourite finds. Wowen, natural colour. Will look beautiful in a

9 28

neutral and organic setting. Would also compliment a sea-toned scheme. 2. Caeserstone Calacatta Nuvo Beautiful quartz surface in a realistic marble look. It is extremely durable and practical for the home. Stunning, timeless and suits so many styles through the years of a home. 3. Adairs Azure quilt cover set Great patterns with lovely blues and aquas. Like taking a dip in bed . 4. Freedom Drift fine bone china I love the colour painted on these pieces. Together they are lovely and fresh for the table. 5. Laminex Metaline surfaces Popular for wall panels or splashbacks in the kitchen. The two new colours Bronze Metallic and Copper Metallic mean you can add a warm and bold statement in your home. 6. Domayne Kopa table lamp and Kopa floor lamp Give the room a bronze hit with these impressive Kopa Lamps. Match in with deep darker pieces, greys or light neutral tones these lamps will make a great impact. 7. Domayne Malmo stools These stools add happy pastel pops of colour and are a great addition to many rooms in the home. 8. Country Road homewares Mix and match some great combinations of blacks, neutral tones and soft pastels. So chic but with a fun twist for the table. 9. KAS cushions Exotica Multi $39.95 Striking spring floral designs. I love the colours! So gorgeous. 10. Urban Art Kangaroo Paw Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard not be be wowed by this bright Australian native art piece. It will add wonderful spring colour into any room.

TRADITION STAINED GLASS TRADITION STAINED GLASS W E S T E R N W E S T E R N

A U S T R A L I A N A U S T R A L I A N

Let us show you how Let us show you how outdoor spaces into a outdoor spaces into a STUDIO STUDIO

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL

G L A S S G L A S S

A R T I S T S A R T I S T S

easy it is to transform your indoor and easy it is to transform your indoor and statement with an artistic glass element statement with an artistic glass element

RESTORATION RESTORATION

STAINED GLASS STAINED GLASS

ART GLASS ART GLASS

ECCLESIASTICAL ECCLESIASTICAL

Unit 10/6 McNeece Place, O’Connor • P (08) 9430 4707 • M 0416 060 864 Unit 10/6 McNeece Place, O’Connor • P inspiration (08) 9430 4707 • M 0416 060 864 • Find at www.artglass.com.au admin@traditionstainedglass.com.au admin@traditionstainedglass.com.au • Find inspiration at www.artglass.com.au

NEWS

1 2

5 4

summer loving 7

Splash some warm weather cheer around your home

9 8

1. Freedom Zedd 16cm decorative chair $9.95. 2. Freedom Summer Holiday print $249. 3. Freedom Molecule deco ball 13cm $12.95. 4. Freedom Diner ceiling pendant $179. 5. Freedom Bleeker St pendant $79.95. 6. Freedom Markem table runner $22.95. 7. Home Republic Picasso quilt cover set from Adairs $179.95. 8. Freedom Flamingo cushion 50 x 50cm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Multi $34.95. 9. Country Road Dalo cushion $79.95. 10. Freedom Citrus coasters $9.95. 11. Freedom Habnero stand $129.

Glass Splashbacks WA GlassKote is Perthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest coloured glass specialist, introducing glass splashbacks to WA 15 years ago. Since then we have installed over 30,000 splashbacks into an array of applications, ranging from single dwellings, apartment block complexes to exterior claddings on high-rises. This is why we confidently offer a 10 year warranty.

SHOWROOM: 26 Fallon Road Landsdale WA 6065 info@waglasskote.com.au Phone: 08 9303 9256 Fax: 08 9303 9260 www.waglasskote.com.au OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 8.00am to 4.30pm Saturdays 9.00am to 12.00pm (except for public holidays)

NEWS

Soft touch For the past few years, ultrasleek contemporary styling and minimalism have dominated the interiors market. But design experts say the tide is starting to turn and more home owners are looking for ways to inject some personality and warmth into their homes. Pretty pastels and whimsical prints are set to take centre stage in homes next year, according to trend reports from around the globe. Justin Griffiths from DĂŠcor Blinds and Curtains says good quality printed fabric can make an unforgettable statement when used to create curtains or as upholstery. These stunning prints from Charles Parsons fabrics will create instant wow-factor in any room.

FRENCH PROVINCIAL, HAMPTONS, LUXURY STYLE KITCHENS, BATHROOMS & INTERIOR DESIGNS Retailing premium Bathroom, Kitchen Tapware & Appliances

VISIT TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS NEWLY REFURBISHED DISPLAY SALES & SELECTION CENTER

Perrin & Rowe Provence Lever tap Available in Different Finishes

Falcon Elan Free Standing Cooker

TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGNS KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, LAUNDRYS & MORE Complimentary Lighting

brodware winslow basin Set with krystal levers

Claw Foot Double Slipper Bath Available in Black or White

Town & Country Designs Sales & Selection centre: 0449 207 561 Located on the ground floor of Home Base Expo, Subiaco. To ensure personal attention please call to arrange an appointment with one of our designers.

www.townandcountrydesigns.com.au

Protection and Privacy DMS has you covered P L AT I N U M I N S TA L L E R PA RT N E R

Protect your home from 99.9% of UV rays, and more… Forget blinds, shutters and awnings. DMS Solar Control window films block UV rays, and reduce heat penetration and glare without compromising your view or your home’s street appeal. Our premium quality films are made using superior technologies for strength, durability, colour stability and clarity. Combine that with our expert advice, professional installers and Lifetime Quality Promise and you’ll know you’re choosing the best to protect your home and family.

FULL PAGE ADVERTISEMENT Turn bland IMAGECRETE into beautiful Our stunning range of Decorative Films not only add attractive touches to your home, they can help obscure or restrict the view into personal areas. These indoor and outdoor films can be applied easily to glass, acrylic and polycarbonate surfaces. There are frosted, dusted, textured and patterned choices available, or you can create your own design. Imagine how you can transform plain areas into artistic spaces, and enhance privacy in bathrooms or on balconies in an interesting way – the choices are endless.

Book your free consultation now. Call 9242 2275 or email info@dmstinting.com.au

• Solar Control Films • Safety and Security Films • Decorative, Privacy and Graphic Vinyls

U2/44 Hutton St, Osborne Park WA 6017 9242 2275 info@dmstinting.com.au dmstinting.com.au

SUBSECTION SECTION

New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coastal retreat, the Hamptons has inspired a new design craze in Western Australia. The trend, which

ith its sprawling beaches, wide open spaces and relaxed lifestyle, it makes sense that coastal inspired design is popular among Perth home owners and designers alike. More people are refusing to accept cookie-cutter

homes. Gone are the days of row upon row of rendered, neutral-coloured angular properties in building estates. Instead, they are being replaced by private sanctuaries which reflect a culture of growing up in the beautiful and

is casual yet stylish,

relaxed city that Perth is.

is perfectly suited

eclectic finishes and big businesses are responding by adding

to Perthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s laid back lifestyle.

People are more interested in versatile, textural and hand-made or natural products to their ranges. Homes with designs inspired by the world famous, affluent American beachside suburb of the Hamptons are popping up all over Perth, featuring products such as handmade bricks, painted cladding and decorative architraves. The trend, which allows home owners endless opportunities to mix and match finishes to create truly unique

TRENDS

spaces, is relaxed but sophisticated at the same time. The popularity of this year’s Telethon home is evidence Hamptons-inspired design is hot property, says Midland Brick’s Sean Adomeit. The home features hand-made bricks which are rustic and timeless. The bricks are not extruded like regular bricks. Instead they are made using individual moulds meaning each batch is slightly different. “Hand-made bricks with their rustic finish and striking colours create a truly individual look and we encourage customers to come and personally select their own product,” Sean says. “I really think people are tired of the ultracontemporary look and they want to go back to basics with textural surfaces which are handmade where possible.” Hand-made bricks are exclusive to Midland Brick and are a great option for creating a feature on a home’s exterior. The popularity of timber shutters has sky-rocketed in recent years, probably due to the fact that they are now more affordable than ever before. When used in conjunction with other products such as timber flooring and stone feature walls, shutters can help to create classic and stylish beach house design. Shutters can be used to create striking visual effects within the home and they also increase a property’s street appeal. They lend themselves very well to the beach house look because they are a natural product and they offer great protection from the sun. Rod Holm from Access Timber Flooring says wooden floors have always been popular in Western Australia but these days there are more options to choose from in terms of the look and feel of the product. He says timber floors are perfect for beach-house themed design because they were fuss-free, organic and warm underfoot. “Recently, we have definitely had more people approach us looking for Hampton’s inspired floors,” he says. 36

“hand-made and decorative products are hot items”

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

Clockwise from top: stunning feature fireplace from Subiaco Restoration, oak flooring from Access Timber Flooring and Trex decorative features.

TRENDS

“Generally what they are after is the French Oak or American Oak and normally they stain them a darker colour. Parquetry is also a good fit for that type of look.” Timber flooring adds value because it is timeless and elegant. “We often hear that people want to pull up existing flooring and put down timber because it just works so well in Western Australia,” he says. Another standout feature of Hamptons design is an internal abundance of natural light. Big windows and skylights are the perfect way to bring more daylight into any home. Beautiful Velux skylights are often high on the priority list for new home owners and renovators because they are a design feature

GET THE LOOK Hamptons Style >

Choose a neutral colour

in themselves. Velux’s Kim

palette and take your cue from

Blanchard says his company offers

nature. Creamy beach sand, soft

a range of different products to

aquas, silvery-green hues which

suit different needs and budgets

reflect coastal shrubs and a mix of

but all are extremely aesthetically

dark and light timbers will work a

appealing.

treat.

“Our skylights provide

Avoid bright jarring colours

ventilation as well as extra light

and retro references. Hamptons

and they definitely make the space

styling is relaxed, but elegant at

seem bigger and more appealing

the same time. It is important to

in general. They suit the Hamptons

choose quality finishes, fixtures

style well because they also help

and soft furnishings to perfectly

integrate the house with the

execute this look. Finishing the

natural surrounds,” he says.

picture with lashings of linens,

“There is nothing like lying

woven baskets, antique timber

in bed and watching the stars

cabinets and stylish wall paper,

through a skylight in the roof.”

perhaps with a nod to the nautical.

“There is nothing like lying in bed and watching the stars...”

Mix textural design elements

into the build. Think recycled bricks, timber cladding, stone feature walls, timber floors, marble benchtops and timber architraves.

Introduce as much natural light

as possible. Skylights and floor to ceiling windows dressed with beautiful white shutters can make spectacular inclusions.

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

stylish storage, locally made Specialising in custom-made walk in robes, built in robes, doors and interiors, Uzit Wardrobes provides Perthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best creative and practical solutions for storage.

www.uzitwardrobeswa.com.au uzit@aapt.net.au unit 1/3 Cressall Rd, Balcatta 9344 4999 Monday 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 1 pm See our Home Base display - open 7 days

STYLIST’S OWN WORDS KRISTEN WATTS PHOTOGRAPHY KATHRYN SPRIGG AND LANIE SIMS STYLING LISA QUINN-SCHOFIELD GARDEN DESIGN TRENT QUINN-SCHOFIELD

FEATURE HOME

“Our house is pretty eclectic, there is a bit of everything here. It is coastal urban with Scandi and some boho thrown in.”

ith an eye for style and an innate ability to see design potential in even the most unlikely places, Coco Republic Design School graduate and interior stylist Lisa Quinn-Schofield is not one to baulk at a challenge. The former fashion designer and mother of two has let her imagination run wild in renovating the 1970s Perth home she shares with husband Trent, a keen gardener and surfer. The couple share a passion for nature and where possible their renovations reflect their love of textural, earthy finishes. But the home is still punctuated with generous pops of colour. Lisa says she is heavily influenced by Scandinavian design and carefully chosen pieces of furniture in the home feature organic shapes, natural finishes and interesting textures. “One of the first things we did to this place was to install new blackbutt floors because we both love wood, it is textural and warm,” she says. “Our house is pretty eclectic, there is a bit of everything here. It is coastal urban with Scandi and some Boho thrown in. I grew up with horses and I love dogs and animals and I think you can see that influence if you look

Lisa’s family loves the great outdoors and her husband Trent, has a green thumb. He is solely responsible for the couple’s lovingly designed garden.

FEATURE HOME

“Our house is constantly evolving, things are changed and mixed up all the time and that keeps it interesting.”

Lisa painted the artwork in the living room and the armchair is a roadside find, recovered in Florence Broadhurst fabric, reflecting the owner’s love of nature and horses.

closely. We’ve got koi wallpaper, a moose head and references to feathers and horses. I don’t do it intentionally, it is just seems to happen that way.” Lisa’s relaxed style comes together to create the perfect child-friendly haven for the couple’s two small children. “We have small kids, so we are not precious. We know that everything has to be robust and replaceable,” she says. “In a way, that has worked for me because I like to keep things exciting and fresh. Our house is constantly evolving, things are changed and mixed up all the time and that keeps it interesting.” Lisa says part of the key to decorating with success is knowing where to spend the budget. She says her sofa, which has washable covers, is from Ikea, as is the striking black and white rug. Both offer good bang for buck. But there are other items which she has splurged on. Her vision, creativity and eye for style have won her a steady stream of work. “People started saying the house looked good, I was really happy with how it was coming together but I really didn’t know what other people would make of it,” she says. “And I guess I have never really worried about what

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

FEATURE HOME

other people are doing or what they might say. But then they started saying our house looked good and asking me if I could do stuff for them and I realised I must be doing something right.” Her instagram and facebook pages, which come under the Featherhorse monicker, are popular with savvy and aspiring local design enthusiasts. Lisa says she loves sneaking a glimpse inside other people’s homes and either writing about them or helping to style them, reveling in the opportunity to share some of her own design ideas at the same time. “I love seeing what makes other people tick,” she says. “I like embracing what other people do and then giving them a taste of what I do and the more I do that kind of stuff the more I realise that successful design is just about surrounding yourself with the stuff that you love. “We found a chair on the side of the road and I got it re-covered in Florence Broadhurst fabric. “I really love that chair because there is more to it than it being just a chair. Outside, the garden is another work of art in itself. It features layer upon layer of clever plantings and a wonderful collection of cherished bonsai, nurtured over many years by Trent. “The garden is Trent’s thing, I am only allowed to look, but it is beautiful and he puts so much passion into it,” Lisa says. The couple are now in the process of renovating the bathrooms and minor bedrooms. Lisa says she scoured the city looking for just the right elements and can’t wait to see the results.

Strong accents of black and white are scattered throughout the home, providng a dramatic backdrop for displaying Lisa and Trent’s eclectic pieces.

Timeless appeal, beautifully reinvented. Introducing Ashlar pavers.

Inspired by the boulevards and classic piazzas of Europe, Midland Brick introduce Ashlar. This unique paving range captures the essence of style for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contemporary home design. To find out more about the Ashlar colour range and textures call Midland Brick on 13 15 40 or visit us online at www.midlandbrick.com.au

Colours and textures are indicative only due to limitations in photographic and printing processes.

The new Ashlar Pattern. Eight colours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; two textures.

MBC8648

FEATURE HOME

DESIGN SECRETS

Inside the mind of a design guru Lisa’s favourite things. IN THE LIVING ROOM… FRAME WALL It’s probably the

looking after them. Thank goodness

hero of this space. An eclectic mix

for my husband’s green thumb.

of black frames full of things we

IKEA RUG An affordable statement

love. There are things like photos

piece.

from travelling, a finger painting by

CUSHIONS Ever changing and ever

my daughter, a napkin, a postcard,

evolving.

a magazine tear sheet, a tshirt print

WOOD CARVED CACTUS From

from my fashion designing days, a

Freedom.

painting of my husband’s favourite

LARGE COPPER FLOOR LAMP

surfing spot. It’s a collection of

From Empire.

things that represent us and who

TABLE LAMP Driftwood lamp from

we are as a family.

Freedom.

FURNITURE Having a young family and a dog, we can’t be too

BEDROOM…

precious about our interior and

This room is always changing and

décor. Everything needs to be

evolving. Sometimes it’s all white,

robust, cleanable or replaceable.

sometimes it’s colourful. Having a

I love our Kivik sofa from Ikea. It’s

neutral background makes it easier

the perfect shape for our long

to get creative.

awkwardly shaped room and the

PLATES On the wall are designed

covers are washable and removable.

by Rob Ryan and were a gift from

I discovered just how good this was

my husband when our second baby

when my three-year-old decided

was born.

to go pro hart on me the other day and attacked the lounge with

DINING ROOM…

textas.

ARM CHAIR My favourite item

WALL HANGING A found stick,

in my whole house is a roadside

some rustic twine and wooden

find. A left for dead vintage chair

beads. I love creating and making.

which has been recovered in

BOOK SHELF A vintage teak

Florence Broadhurst fabric “Horses

bookshelf which belonged to my

Stampede”.

husband’s grandfather houses our

PAINTING By me.

treasured interior, art, gardening

LAMP From Empire.

and coffee table books. VINTAGE SURF POSTER A 1963

OUTSIDE…

magazine cover of Surfing World

YELLOW CHAIRS and VINTAGE

magazine.

SURFBOARD Roadside finds.

INDOOR PLANTS I can never

DAYBED From Chinta and covered

have enough! I’m not very good at

in fabric from Ikea.

Lisa’s home is filled with thoughtful details and plenty of her own artwork, seen here on bedroom walls.

The largest showroom with the biggest range of wardrobe, shelving, storage and sliding doors in Perth. We offer Perthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s widest range at the best prices. We do more than just wardrobes! free call 1300 750 745

www.wardrobeman.com.au 5/55 Prindiville Drive Wangara 6065

The home is designed to make the most of the spectacular view.

FEATURE HOME

WORDS CARLY BARRETT PHOTOGRAPHY ROBERT FRITH

beachside bliss L TAKE a look inside inside one of the progressive properties participating in this year’s Open House Perth.

ocated on the southern outskirts of suburban Perth sits The Suburban Beach House by David Barr and Ross Brewin Architects. The house pays homage to the beach shack vernacular that occupies our childhood memories whilst also referring to an inner urban form and spatial footprint. At the modest size of 150 square metres, it is smart living at its best and proves it’s not about the quantity of space but the quality of space you have that is important. The dynamic form of the house when combined with its elevated site makes the most of the spectacular coastal setting and ocean views. These views are carefully framed within the home making the most of its incredible location but sheltering the occupants from coastal winds. The capacity of the home to take in views is extended in the upper outdoor space, which provides the perfect location for a barbeque and small bar area where you feel encouraged to pull up a stool and take it all in. It is also a great example of the architect’s ability to create very liveable spaces that are well laid

FEATURE HOME

The home is designed to open up, making the interior feel more closely connected with the environment.

out and orientated to make the most of the location and the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle. Downstairs accommodates storage for water sports equipment and a versatile room that could be easily adapted from guest bedroom to activity area. The space opens on to the backyard providing a sheltered environment for the kids to play in. A rock formation frames the area providing visual cues to the location and its context. The landscaping is well considered and utilises coastal native species which are already thriving in the local surrounds. A cross between the West Australian and Queenslander style beach homes, the exterior cladding system is resilient to the weather, yet very attractive from the street. The profile is contemporary and crisp, its modern feel aided by the white finish; but will still have you travelling back in time to summer holidays on the beach. Overall the exterior design of the home is distinctive in its setting, with a number of the traditional beach shacks of the area being demolished in favour of large brick homes. Standing

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

FEATURE HOME

“Plywood is used in the kitchen to create the cupboards, it is a great choice of material for the space and it helped to keep the overall costs down.”

out from the crowd. The suburban beach house is visually distinctive, but what strikes you the most is how well both open and closed spaces are integrated into architecture, bringing the joy of the beachside lifestyle to the street in a much more successful way than a number of the new brick homes it sits beside. The interior continues the modern beachy feel using semi-transparent cladding between rooms to make them feel more open and light. Plywood is used in the kitchen for cupboards and the crafty bench seat – it is a great choice of material for the space and helped to keep the overall cost of the project down. The architects have cleverly connected spaces, with a single corridor behind the kitchen area connecting all the bedrooms and bathrooms. The main bathroom is luxurious, making you almost feel on holiday thanks to a clever 52

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING The kitchen is well connected to the rest of the house.

FEATURE HOME

selection of fixtures and fittings. The dark tiling to the walls and floor is offset by the white palette of bath, toilet and benchtop and framed by the introduction of a semi-transparent wall delivering filtered light through a void space. There is plenty of storage and a study space off the corridor. The home has many virtues and instantly appeals to anyone who visits. It is a testament to the fact that high end design need not cost the earth (pun intended).

â&#x20AC;&#x153;dark tiling is offset by the white palette of the bath and benchtopâ&#x20AC;?

FEATURE HOME

GET THE LOOK Beachside bliss > > > >

Screens - Lexan Thermoclick Tapware - Dorf Benchtops - Arabescato Vagli Paint - Dulux Lexicon in quarter

strength matt

One of the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best attributes is the abundance of natural light, which bounces beautifully off white walls and filters through transluscent room dividers. 55

SUBSECTION SECTION WORDS KRISTEN WATTS

the show This light-weight home is a heavy weight when it comes to design credibility.

COVER STORY

Visitors often don’t realise this home is a light-weight construction, built with steel framing and cladding.

alking through the heart of this modern, airy and light-filled home, it’s easy to forget it was built to convince new home builders that alternative forms of construction are worth serious consideration. Instead, visitors are struck by the home’s clever footprint, the many interesting textures and finishes both inside and out and the ingenious design tricks. The Rural Building Co’s Robert Kirkovski, who designed the property, says he was motivated to distract visitors from thinking about the home’s steel-frame construction. “We built this home in conjunction with the land developer and they had a clear objective,” Robert says. “They wanted to demonstrate that steel-frame construction can be modern and everything that typical double brick construction is. “I wanted people to walk through the home and like the home and then find out along the way that it

The home is modern with its expansive open plan living areas and is designed to be cool in summer and warm in winter.

COVER STORY

Visit the Rural Building Co’s Urban Retreat at Bonney Drive, Baldivis.

is a bit different to what they are used to. “And that is what we have achieved, because unless it is pointed out to them, most people don’t even realise that it is light-weight construction.” The attention to detail and innovative approach to designing and building the home netted it two gongs at this year’s Housing Industry Association Green Smart Awards. The home’s steel frame is clad in James Hardie’s revolutionary Scyon cladding. “The prefabricated frames are made off site and then put together on site,” Rob says. “The way this one is built results in a reduction of on site waste by two thirds. There is less embodied energy and a lower carbon footprint.”

the ART of stunning floors Seamless stone surfaces applied directly over concrete, tiles and timber sheeting. Elegantly seamless- interior & exterior.

3/14 Blackly Row, Cockburn Central (appointment only) PH 1300 664 986 info@artisanfinishes.com.au www.artisanfinishes.com.au specialists in: Quartz Carpet Concrete Staining Concrete Polishing X-bond Flooring Colourstone Polished Plaster

COVER STORY

GET THE LOOK

Steel the show >

External cladding:

> > > >

Kitchen benchtops: Essastone.

> He says another benefit of using this type of construction is that it creates more floor space. Another obvious benefit was the increased speed of construction. Steel frame construction in combination with Scyon cladding allowed for a huge amount of creative flexibility, Rob says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With this type of construction you can get higher walls and greater angles and you can create something really modern. The home feels good inside, it has lots of natural light and it is designed to catch the breeze. We have also been able to make it look really interesting on the outside because we have used lots of different finishes.â&#x20AC;?

James Hardie Scyon. Roof: Colorbond. Landscaping: LD Total. Interior decoration: Jodie Cooper. Built and Designed by: Rural Building Co.

The home feels good inside, it has lots of natural light and it is designed to catch the breeze. We have also been able to make it look really interesting on the outside because we have used lots of different finishes.

You like the way it looks. You’ll love the way it feels.

The award-winning design, quality craftsmanship and unprecedented performance of a Big Ass Fan® are always in style.

FULL

Hidden behind a seamless fit and finish, Haiku’s revolutionary motor features PAGE ADVERTISEMENT Whoosh®, a proprietary algorithm that BIG ASS FANSsimulates a natural breeze to keep you feeling up to 40% cooler*. Haiku® is recognised by Popular Science as the world’s quietest ceiling fan and rated by ENERGY STAR® as the world’s most energy efficient. With 16 unique brightness settings and a digital dimmer, Haiku’s patent-pending LED module delivers 80% greater efficiency than traditional bulbs over a lifespan of 50,000 hours.

Visit bigassfans.com.au/offer and use promo code HBM814 or call 07 3292 0114 to receive free shipping**

B I G A S S FA N S .C O M . AU/O F F E R 07 3 2 9 2 0114

*Human thermal sensation to air movement frequency, Yizai Xia, Rongyi Zhao and Weiquan Xu (2000). **Only available for purchase through the Home Base Expo Subiaco WA by calling 07 3292 0114 and speaking to our sales consultant. Not available with any other offer. Offer expires January 15th 2015.

Showroom: Home Base E xpo, 55 Salvado Drive, Subiaco WA 60 08

An all white kitchen feels spacious and calm, says Kitchen Capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 64 Sue Jansen.

DESIGN

DREAM KITCHEN Creating the perfect space for your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs is a step-by-step process. WORDS KRISTEN WATTS

nce upon a time, the kitchen was the sole domain of the house wife. It was the place where the woman of the house spent most of her hours preparing meals for the family and taking care of various other household chores.

Now that our lifestyles have changed so dramatically,

it makes sense that kitchens have become the central hub of our homes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where family members come together to cook, eat and entertain. Creating a kitchen that perfectly suits the household needs requires planning and careful consideration. But when it is done properly, a kitchen will become a place where many fantastic memories will be made.

DESIGN

Kitchens with more design detail are making a comeback.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A few years ago, people were only interested in installing ultra-slick contemporary kitchens but in the past 12 months there has been a massive swing toward more classic and homely styling.â&#x20AC;? 66

CHANGING SPACES Classic kitchens with Hamptons-inspired finishes are making a big comeback, the Kitchen Capital’s Sue Jansen says. A few years ago, people were only interested in installing ultra-slick contemporary kitchens but in the past 12 months there had been a massive swing toward more classic and homely styling. “You can dress this look up or down and that is why it is becoming so popular,” she says. “It can be incorporated into modern homes or it can be used in homes with more traditional styling and it won’t be out of place in either situation.”

DESIGN

GET IT RIGHT Sue, who has been designing award winning kitchens for the past two decades, says she has a simple formula for creating a space that suits her client’s needs. It is a simple

step-by-step process and it always yields the right results.

STEP 1 PLAN She says the first thing to do is look at the space available and pay attention to existing doorways and objects. “To me, safety is a big issue along with

usability. I like to look at where everything is going to go and how that will affect the people who are using the space. You need to be able to move safely and freely from oven to cooktop and to be able to access the fridge and dishwasher

easily without being obstructed,” Sue says.

STEP 2 APPLIANCES The next thing to consider is what appliances will best accommodate the family’s needs. There are lots of great, time-saving appliances now

available and it is a good idea to research them all and work out which ones would be useful, she says. “For example if someone has back problems, they will probably benefit from a wall-mounted oven,” she says. “But these days you also need to think about things like steamers and coffee makers and decide what things are essential and then work

around that.”

STEP 3 AESTHETICS “I am a big believer that functionality and safety come first,” Sue says. “Then you can think about the style you are going for. Sometimes the

appliances you choose will help dictate the style a little bit but you shouldn’t have to compromise, anything is achievable.” Sue says there’s a swing away from minimalism and people are making their kitchens feel more homely. “These Hampton’s type kitchens can cope with a bit more clutter and that can be a good thing in the kitchen because the reality is there are lots of utensils and bits and pieces that are needed and it can be a pain to have to constantly

hide them away.”

STEP 4 FUNCTION “It is a good idea to think carefully about how many people you need the kitchen to accommodate,” she says. “If there are teenagers

coming and going and several people wanting to cook at once, we can design around that,” she says.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to include a feature colour if there is one that you have always loved. If you are driven by trends, stick with neutrals. 69

DESIGN

Keep herbs and spices near the cooktop where they are most likely to be used, Sue suggests.

“I pay a lot of attention to details like the ease of packing and unpacking a dishwasher, the ability to access the fridge and the size of the pantry.” She says gone are the days when big food storage areas were vital. “Now that we have extended shopping hours, we really don’t need big pantries,” she says. “I like to distribute food storage areas around the kitchen, for example I like to put spices in a drawer next to the oven, because that is where you use them. Where possible, I like a tea and coffee station and a breakfast storage area.”

COLOUR When it comes to choosing the actual look of the kitchen, Sue says the best advice is to choose colours and finishes that have always been appealing, rather than following trends. “If people want colour, I tell them to choose something that they have always loved,” she says. “If they tend to be a person that is driven by trends then I suggest to go with something very classic, that they won’t tire of. That way you can add accessories to keep up with trends. “If they really want colour then it is a good idea to use it in areas that can easily be changed, like glass splashbacks or on the walls.”

TOP IT OFF Sue says a benchtop is a significant component of any kitchen and choosing the right surface could make or break the space. She says there’s a swing toward using a combination of different finishes on benchtops and it made good sense because different areas had different uses. She says mixing it up also provides a point of interest design-wise. 70

Intelligent Craftsmanship

Creative Thinking

IQ Cabinetmakers create the very finest, custom built cabinets. Our service is completely personalised. We take the time to understand and develop what you want; from the first initial consultation, right through to the planning, design, manufacture and installation of your creation.

iqcabinets.com.au 0421594721

Town & Country Designs specialise in producing 72 memorable, bespoke bathrooms.

DESIGN

perfect WORDS AMANDA LEWIS

Today’s bathrooms are a

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS

far cry from the past when

A bathroom that focuses on a

getting clean involved a quick rinse off in the shower. Now it is all about luxury and

combination of light, space and finishes will always function well and look great, according to Reece Bathroom marketing manager

relaxation — a place where

Daniela Santili.

you go to unwind, pamper

She says its design, fixtures and

yourself and savour the experience. “As we live our lives with busy

decor selections needs to be guided by the size of the room and who will be using it. “The space’s intended use will

schedules and changing

directly affect the layout, fittings

technology, the bathroom

and finishes you choose,” she says.

of today is now becoming a sanctuary from the daily grind of everyday life,” Cassie

“Finally, add design flourishes like candles and nice hand wash, flowers and quality linen. This will really tie the space together and

Dyce, design consultant at

give it a ‘finished’ look.”

WA Assett, The Bathroom

Town & Country Designs’ Melanie

Renovators, says. “It is a place of inspiration

DeMelt says the perfect bathroom also has to have good storage to

and contemplation, while

keep it tidy and

offering a number of different

organised, while

functional requirements.

Veejay’s Dave

You want to create functional yet beautiful space.”

Whitehead says lighting (dimming downlights)

Here the experts outline the elements required to create the perfect bathroom.

DESIGN

Reece Milli Glance towel bars $80

Reece Kado Lure 1500 Petite Back bath $1871

Bathroom by Town & Country Designs.

and heating (towel rails and floor

Ms Santili says.

heating) are great ways to add

“If you’re retrofitting an existing

comfort.

bathroom you’ll need to consider

If you have room, Ms Dyce says to

existing plumbing and electrical

install a deep, freestanding bath tub

points as these will directly affect

to help create a spa-like bathroom

the layout of the room, whereas if

and to stick with natural colours if

you’re building from scratch you’ll

trying to emulate a hotel feel.

have complete creative reign,” she

“Think of your bathroom as a room

says.

to be decorated rather than one to

“For those working to a strict

simply equip,” she says.

budget we recommend compiling a

“It may be the smallest room in

list of ‘must haves’ and a list of ‘lust-

the house but that doesn’t mean it

haves.’ The inclusion of splurges

needs to be boring. Brighten it with

may need to be revised once the

pops of colour and use striking wall

final costs are completed.”

art, bespoke murals and texture to

Ms DeMelt says to choose fixtures

bring it to life. Think outside that

and decor that require little

box.”

maintenance.

PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

“As people are becoming more time poor, easy maintenance is a must so go for larger tiles which minimises

Whether starting from scratch or

grout and also walk-in showers with

renovating, thorough planning is the

no doors, meaning no glass screens

key to achieving a bathroom that

to clean and a more spacious

suits your budget, space and style,

feeling.”

Black accessories are big news in bathroom design. Don’t be afraid to use them to create spectacular spaces.

“don’t be afraid to use colour to create drama”

Marble is on trend in bathroom design, just as it is in kitchens. Bathroom by WA Bathrooms.

Bathroom by Town & Country Designs.

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

Different finishes and textures can be used to create interest in a bigger bathroom. Here, the simple and classic colour scheme beautifully complements the mixed textural palette.

DESIGN

Ms Dyce says lighting is another important consideration. “Focused mood lighting and flushmounted LED lighting are replacing the broad overhead clinical look,” she says. “Making the lighting flexible easily changes the room from functional to atmospheric.” Ms Santili recommends using Reece’s 3D bathroom planner (www.reece.com.au/ bathrooms) in the design process. “This is a great online tool that helps you explore the possibilities of the space you’re working with, putting the entire Reece bathroom product range at your fingertips, as well as a range of fitting, finish and lighting options,” she says. “The 3D planner’s ability to incorporate specific room dimensions, existing plumbing, power outlets and window and door spaces means your vision will reflect the important realities of any bathroom project.”

WHAT’S HOT Floating — or wall hung — vanities are now available for all styles and budgets and black bathroom fixtures are increasingly being fitted as bathroom focal points, according to Ms Dyce. Ms DeMelt says space-saving concealed toilet cisterns are another popular choice, while Mr Whitehead says timber or timber-look products on floors, walls and cabinetry is also a growing trend. “For example, timber-look tiles, timber mosaics and timber or stressed timber laminates on cabinetry,” he says. “This is bringing warmth and character into new designs.” Focal tiles, wall tapware mixer sets and natural finishes like marble are other hot bathroom looks, Ms Santili says. “Consumers are also showing a keen interest in geometric tiling such as round or diamond-shaped tiles and unique printed or patterned tiles to create a focal point within their bathroom space,” she says.

Mirrors can be used to make small spaces feel bigger. Bathroom by Town & Country Designs.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Layout is everything when renovating a small bathroom.â&#x20AC;?

DESIGN

Image: Caesarstone.

HOW TO MAKE SMALL SPACES WORK •

Mr Whitehead says layout is

everything when renovating a small bathroom. “Stick to minimalist designs such as wall-hung vanities and frameless shower screens in order to enhance the illusion of space,” he says. •

Ms DeMelt says a great way to

keep a small bathroom uncluttered is to install narrow wall cabinets that allow you to stand at the mirror and use one product after the other without having to put them down on the benchtop. •

Use a neutral colour palette on

the floors to make the room appear bigger, Ms Dyce says. •

Maximise the natural light by

installing a skylight, big windows or mirrors, Ms Santili says. •

Careful selection and placement

of fittings, colours and mirrors can all make a bathroom seem bigger, Mr Whitehead says. •

Ms Dyce says to install full-

width countertop-to-ceiling height

HOW TO GET the luxury look >

Lay floor-to-ceiling tiles

mirrored walls over vanities to help

to create a feeling of height,

stretch the space visually and to

Ms DeMelt says.

create a streamlined look. •

Ms Santili says corner,

Install heated floors, heated

towel rails, big rain showerheads

freestanding or swivel towel rails

and matte-finish tiles for a

and wall-hung accessories like

luxury spa-resort feel, Ms Dyce

toothbrush holders and tumblers

says.

are great space savers.

Town & Country Designs lighting

Put in a freestanding bath

and a wet room-style, walk-in shower, Ms Santili recommends.

Black and white bath from Town & Country Designs

Ms Santili says to dress

the room with premium linen and accessories like decorative candles, flowers and hand washes.

Enhance freestanding

baths and benchtop basins with wall lights, floor lighting and even a chandelier, Mr Whitehead says. 79

SUBSECTION SECTION

SURFACE AREA Choosing the perfect benchtop or splashback can be a tricky business in a world of ever-evolving trends and new products. Finding something that stands the test of time, both aesthetically and structurally, comes down to having a good understanding of what is available and the associated pros and cons. WORDS KRISTEN WATTS

ENGINEERED STONE

after because they are stain

look even more natural.

Probably the product of the

and scratch resistant.”

“The Supernatural designs have

moment, engineered stone

Engineered stone is made from

had an incredible response from

benchtops are popular because

crushed stone mixed with a

consumers and professional

they provide much of the beauty

polymer resin, so it is non-porous

designers alike,” says Caesarstone’s

of natural stone, while being a

and Sue says, there is greater

Andrew Dixon.

bit more robust.

flexibility with colour availability.

“This combination of high quality

Sue Jansen from Kitchen Captial

Because the colours are

nature-inspired designs with the

says the durability of this product

consistent, large benchtops

benefits of quartz is enabling great

is what makes it the number

and waterfall edges can be

design freedom,” he says.

one choice for savvy home

created with virtually no visible

“From a design perspective we

owners.

joins.

are constantly evaluating new

“Manufactured stone has become

Caesarstone and Essastone lead

directions and opportunities,

popular because people didn’t like

the market in engineered stone

focusing on the most relevant new

the pattern and strong colours of

products and Caesarstone has

designs for Australia.

granite,” she says.

recently released a new collection

“Our focus is always on designs that

“But the other major benefit is

which features wider veins,

have relevance to both residential

that they are very easy to look

aimed at making the product

and commercial interiors.”

DESIGN

NATURAL STONE Granite, slate, travertine, marble and limestone from around the world have been a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom benchtops for decades and people who are keen to achieve a very high-end finish often will not look past this product. Stone is available in a wide range of colours at a range of price points, depending on the location of the quarry and the quality of the

Caesarstone Classico Clamshell.

product. While there are lots of people currently selling stone, most reputable sellers offer customers a point of difference. Many businesses have something slightly different to their competitors and that means that by shopping around, consumers really can get something that is unique and that suits their needs. When it comes to sizing, colours, finish and the basic detail in the way the stone is installed, most people are selling something a little bit different, so shoppers do have choices. Natural stone can be used on floors, walls and benchtops. Country Earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s John Cory says imported natural stone is now more affordable than ever before, thanks to the current state of the world

Caesarstone Classico Bianco Drift.

economy. Experts agree that the market has really opened up, there are different types of stones now available from all over the world.

Engineered stone is versatile, durable and beautiful offering a timeless option for beautiful benchtops throughout the home.

DESIGN

ACRYLIC SURFACES Products such as DuPont Corian and Samsung Staron are nonporous materials, usually made using a mix of acrylic and natural minerals. The product can generally be custom made into any shape or design, allowing for the creation of flowing curves and virtually any shape imaginable. DuPont Corian’s Michelle BridgerDarling says design options for acrylic surfaces were virtually unlimited. “The applications for DuPont Corian are limited only by your own imagination,” she says. “Pieces of Corian can be glued together inconspicuously to create a seamless look, giving virtually endless design possibilities for surfaces. “Long counters for example, can be easily made in pieces in a workshop and then joined together at the installation side. Edges can be built up to look thicker.” She says the product can be thermoformed in wooden or metal

Samsung Staron has been clad to all cabinetry, including benchtop, splashbacks, sinks, cabinetry, bbq area and outdoor table top.

DESIGN

moulds at controlled temperatures in order to create various 2D and 3D designs. Nicki Rodriguez says Samsung Staron is also a blend of natural minerals and pure acrylic which can be used in many places around the home, including the kitchen. Ms Rodriguez says Staron could be moulded into shapes, cut, inlaid, routed or sandblasted. “The flexibility of Staron extends to limitless edge profiles, drop down edges and splashbacks,” she said. “Also a 10mm tile cove can be featured where the benchtop raises

Corian benchtops are exquisite.

10mm to meet your splashback to create a totally seamless curved edge for an integrated and smooth finish which is easy to clean. “But Staron is not only a benchtop

Cooling Brothers glass splashback.

solution, it can be used as wall panels, making it fantastic for mould and grout-free shower walls, shower floors, integrated desk spaces, furniture, barbecue areas and more.”

GLASS Glass splashbacks have been a popular option for new home builders and renovators alike for the last decade because they are sleek, easy to clean and available in an endless range of colours.

tops, windows, doors and virtually

As trends slowly begin to swing

anything that calls for a hard,

back to tiles, glass manufacturers

durable and decorative surface.

are looking for ways to keep the

Currently the most common

product fresh and exciting.

application was for the production

According to Will Main from glass

of beautiful kitchen splash backs

manufacturing company, Cooling

but he hoped more people would

Brothers, printed glass has been

become aware of its availability and

available in Europe for some time,

versatility and start to experiment.

but it has only recently started to

“Aside from the kitchen

take off in Western Australia.

splashbacks, we are seeing people

He says it can be used to create

use it a little bit more on their

fully customised splashbacks,

shower screens to create a privacy

screens, wall coverings, table

strip,” he says.

Cooling Brothers produce stunning printed glass.

DESIGN

“Budget permitting, it is also spectacular when used to replace tiles in bathrooms because it looks seamless and modern and you can have absolutely any design printed onto it. “

LAMINATE “Laminate benchtops have come an incredibly long way over the last ten years,” Sue Jansen says. “Now there’s better colours and textures and all have incredible strength and durability.” But she says, the best development was in terms of what could be done with the edges. In the past, joins and edges were previously quite unsightly. “Now you can have either post forming or square forming so that

“I put them into people’s kitchens

you can have either a rounded front

more commonly now,” she says.

or a tight square edge and when

“They are very convenient for

you combine this with some of

cooking and they work back with a

the textures and colours available

whole range of looks.”

you can really achieve a wonderful result,” she says.

TIMBER

“And the benefit is that they are

While cost per counter can vary

great value for money. When I

largely depending on the type of

talk to people who are working

timber used, this natural product is

to a tight budget, I tell them just

mostly a very good cost-effective

because they are having laminate,

option.

they need not think they are settling

Exotic timbers cost more than

for second best.”

locally grown varieties, but there is

STAINLESS STEEL

a good overall range available, Sue says.

Keen cooks will know the virtues of

“There’s also a few different ways

a stainless steel kitchen benchtop.

to finish them. You can either just

Hygienic and durable, stainless steel

oil the top and work straight on

tops also can perfectly enhance

it or you have it fully sealed so no

modern or industrial decor.

moisture gets in at all.

“It is a very practical work surface,”

“The benefit of oiling the top is that

Sue says. “You can bake straight

you can place hot pans directly on

on top of it, you can do things like

the surface but the downside for

clipping a pasta maker on the side

some people is, that it will mark and

of it or dropping hot pans onto it,

ultimately you will get that worn

without risk of damage.”

look.”

Top: Cooling Brothers Bamboo splashback. Above: Corian makes a fantastic benchtop and can be used as a splashback too.

BIANCO DIAMANTE

VETRO BIANCO

BIANCO CLASSIC

FULL PAGE ADVERTISEMENT ELVEN GROUP KALINGA STONE

Proven Quality Exceptional Value Italian designed, contemporary feel, natural elegance, uncompromising quality and exceptional value. Call Kalingastone to speak to a consultant (08) 6305 0822

Showroom 35 Distinction Road Wangara

Home Base Expo Display 40 55 Salvado Road Wembley

kalingastone.com.au Kalingastone AU

CREMA VERONA

BIANCO NEVE

COMPETITION

WIN!

AN OZCOOLROOMS FRIDGE DRAWER, VALUED AT

$3,400 With more than 20 years experience in building and supplying domestic coolrooms in Western Australia, OzCoolrooms has built a reputation for supplying quality products which need minimal maintenance and cleaning. Best of all, storing food in an OzCoolroom at low temperature but with high humidity will keep it fresher for longer. OzCoolrooms is the official distributor for Norcool, a leading European company that develops and manufactures solutions for the storage of food and drinks. Why people love coolrooms:

Large storage capacity for food, wine and more

Food has much longer storage life

Low running cost

Low noise level

Easy maintenance

Aesthetically pleasing

You can buy items in bulk or when they are on special

Entertaining is easy with increased storage capacity

Above: OzCoolrooms Cool Corner. Right: OzCoolrooms Fridge Drawer.

For your chance to win an OzCoolrooms fridge drawer pick up an entry form at the Home Base info desk. Fill out the form, include the codewords HOME CHEF and place your entry in the barrel located at the OzCoolrooms display. Entries close November 30. See entry form for more details and conditions.

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

Our Concept™ range takes concrete to a whole new level. Fresh textures. The latest colours. New generation versatility. Concept™ combines the durability of traditional concrete products with a rainbow of styles and colours in an almost endless combination of design possibilities. Outdoors, think wide open space, courtyards, driveways and pool

surrounds. Indoors, imagine entertainment rooms, wet areas or inner sanctums. Concept™ is so liveable, you will want to use it in every space. Now you can realise your creative vision inside and out, without compromising colour or style. Combine textured exposed finish exteriors with polished finish interiors, to achieve sleek, seamless design.

Strength. Performance. Passion

Ph: 131188 87 Email: decorativewa-aush@holcim.com www.holcim.com.au

S TA R T AT THE VERY BEGINNING

Creating a stunning home requires plenty of attention to detail, demonstrated in this home by City Beach Builders. 88

PLANNING

It is possible to turn the process of pre-start into an exciting and stress-free experience. We asked Home Base design expert Rebecca Sheridan for an insider’s guide to making it through pre-start unscathed.

nyone who has ever house-hunted will identify with the painful process of visiting a property that is almost perfect but missing a few crucial elements

on the must-have list. Finding a home that ticks all the boxes

on the functionality front yet has no aesthetic appeal is also extremely frustrating. These are the issues that often lead people down the path of building their own home. Starting with choosing the perfect block, designing a plan that best suits their needs and then having a hand in choosing the finer details of the build is an extremely rewarding process. But it can also be terrifying, especially when embarking on the experience for the first time. The overall look and feel of a new home starts to take shape during the pre-start

The Wardrobe Man’s Elfa system.

process, when owners choose colours, finishes, fixtures and a host of decorative details inside and out. Keeping track of all the choices and

Breaking the job down into small pieces can make it more manageable and Rebecca

building a mental map of what they will look

says she starts by asking clients to look

like together when the build is finished can be

through magazines and visit as many display

daunting and quite difficult.

homes as possible.

Perth interior designer and decorator

She says it is a good idea to keep a record

Rebecca Sheridan says it can be a good idea

of the types of things that appeal and from

to call in the experts for advice. Doing so could

there she can help them start to work out what

save nasty surprises at the end of the process.

they want to achieve in their own home.

“A lot of people put a great deal of

Surprisingly, Rebecca says lots of people

thought into purchasing a car, considering all

are not even aware of what their personal style

the details and weighing all the alternatives up,

is and what colours appeal to them, but by

but when it comes to building a new home they

immersing themselves in printed magazines

sometimes don’t realise that it requires the

and making visits to homes they could start to

same, if not more, attention,” she says.

become more aware. 89

PLANNING

City Beach Builders are experts at paying attention to detail.

FIRST STEPS After an overall plan is made in terms of style direction, Rebecca says she starts by helping clients work out what their standard inclusions are and what items should be upgraded. She says there is money to be saved by seriously evaluating each standard inclusion and only upgrading what is absolutely necessary. “I like to help people work out which pre-start items are important to get right and which ones they can live with for now, because there are lots of things that people can maybe live with now and change easily later,” she says.

“I like to help people work out which pre-start items are important to get right and which ones they can live with for now, because there are lots of things that people can maybe live with now and change easily later.”

“But there are things that are just too difficult to change later and they are the ones we need to get right at the beginning.” She says things like getting the bath and tiles right were important, but on the other hand tapware and internal door handles could easily be changed later. Practicality is also an extremely important thing to consider.

SOLUTIONS LIGHTING

PRE-START CHECK LIST

> Collect images and reference material to

help you define your style and stay focused.

> Choose the overall look of the exterior of the home by first selecting the roof colour and type. Rebecca says it will make the rest of the external selections easier to make.

> Keep items such as garage doors, main

floors, kitchen cupboards, internal doors and gutters neutral and practical – add detail and flair later in soft furnishings and furniture.

> Upgrade items that are too costly or

difficult to change later, see if you can live with the rest.

> Visit tile stores and get familiar with the

builder’s standard range. Don’t make fast, rash decisions. “Sometimes paying extra for feature tiles is unnecessary,” Rebecca says. “As a guide, unless you really love the feature tile, you shouldn’t have one because they are not the easiest to remove if you get tired of them. She says if the plan is to sell or rent the property at some stage, it might be wiser to avoid a feature tile and opt for a simple wall and floor tile combination in colours and style that won’t go out of fashion easily so future buyers or tenants won’t be offended.

> If possible, consult an interior designer

to thoroughly check plans for functionality, to help you edit ideas and stay focused on the big picture, to suggest money-saving options and to make certain pre-start choices are the best practical decision.

> Spend plenty of time revising the

electrical plan before finalising anything with the builder. Think about what the world could be used for in the long term. Ask yourself if a TV point needs to be considered for future. What rooms need more adequate lighting and how will this need to be dispersed over the room.

> Ask your designer for a sketch if you

don’t understand the ideas that are put forward. It may help to make the concept easier to visualise.

> Avoid items that look fantastic but might not be practical.

HOT TIP If nothing else, consider asking an interior designer to go over plans for functionality, before you sign off on them. Often an experienced eye can pick up a light switch in the wrong place, or a door that won’t fully open or a better way to make use of a small nook. 91

More people are seriously considering building sustainable housing, like this stunning creation by Ecohabit. 92

DESIGN

GOING GREEN There’s more to this approach to building than many people realise WORDS KRISTEN WATTS

hen architects and designers first started talking about solar-passive and eco-friendly design, there was a common

misconception in the community that going green was purely for the benefit of the planet. But as more people realise the benefits to going green on the home front also include significant financial savings, interest in the concept continues to grow. And if all that wasn’t enough, eco-friendly homes are said to be comfortable places to live, with cooling breezes being drawn through the property during summer and cold air being sucked out during winter. Home Base’s energy efficiency expert, architect Adrian Fratelle says sustainable housing is more comfortable to live in than housing that is not designed with the local climate in mind. He says the benefits of living in a solar passive home include comfort, improved lifestyle due to living more efficiently and of course being more gentle on the environment. Adrian, who has worked in the building and design industry for more than 17 years, has set up a company called Ecohabit to try and facilitate wider use of sustainable home design, particularly amongst new home builders in the mid to high end of the market. “When you look at the principles of this kind of design, it just makes sense and I get so frustrated and disappointed when I hear of people who have built a new house and the finished product doesn’t meet their needs,” he says. 93

DESIGN

Often houses which are eco-friendly are also super stylish because their designers think outside the square.

MR FRATELLE’S GUIDE TO ECO-FRIENDLY DESIGN ORIENTATION

Living areas should be placed to the northern

end of the block, allowing winter sunlight to enter the home and provide warmth.

Windows should be positioned to allow

In summer there should be some plan to

winter sunlight to hit the thermal mass. keep the sunlight out, so plenty of shading is needed.

Deciduous trees and shutters also help.

The placement of windows should be

GLAZING carefully considered. Very few windows should be placed facing east and west, so that rising morning sun is kept out.

WHAT IS AN ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATING?

VENTILATION

Perth’s notorious sea breeze provides the

The government uses

into consideration various

perfect natural cooling mechanism for the

computer software

features such as orientation

city and the power of the cool air can also be

modeling to measure the

of the house, shading,

harnessed to make homes more comfortable.

energy efficiency of a

window placement and

house and give it a star

size, climate, ventilation,

opened up so the breeze can sweep through,

rating.

insulation, materials used

entering one end and exiting the other end,

The worst performing

and roof colour.

creating a suctioning effect.

buildings get a zero rating

A house built to a six star

and a building that needs

standard will use about 20

will encourage more airflow.

no artificial heating or

to 25 per cent less energy

MATERIALS

cooling would get a 10 star

to heat and cool when

rating.

compared to a similar sized

are not on the market and it is important to

The computer software

five star house.

explore all options.

modeling determines the

The good news for home

potential heating and

owners is this significantly

underated in Perth but there are many benefits

cooling requirements of a

reduces energy bills

to using these forms of construction.

given house design, even

as well as reducing the

before it is built.

burden on the state’s

Mr Fratelle runs Home Base’s 6 Star Design

According to the WA

energy infrastructure.

and Sustainability course. Check the Home

Building Commission, the

It also helps reduce carbon

Base website for more information.

software is able to take

emissions.

> > > >

Designs should allow the home to be

Placing the home in the centre of the block

Plenty of new energy efficient materials

Timber or steel-framed homes tended to be

IDEAS FILE

show stoppers Add wow factor to your home using any or all of these great products and ideas.

veryone wants their home to stand out from the crowd and importantly, every abode should in some way be a reflection of the people who inhabit it. Not everyone has an unlimited budget and it is true

that adding wow factor can be a costly exercise when you think in terms of high end innovative finishes and fixtures.

But experts agree that it is possible to add serious appeal to any

property, on almost any budget, by carefully considering what the priorities are and adding a dash of imagination. Very often you can achieve some amazing results just by using one or two stand-out features and keeping everything else elegantly simple. A few products and design tricks currently on the market give a lot of bang for their buck, personalising homes and imparting a touch of luxury. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our pick of some of the great options worth considering.

IDEAS FILE

Velux skylights can be configured to create spectacular effects.

VELUX SKYLIGHTS If your family loves the beautiful, clear daylight that Perth is notorious for, then these wonderful features could be the perfect way to transform your home into an exciting, resortlike space. More of a roof window than a skylight, these spectacular features are essentially lined shafts that lead from the ceiling through the roof space to the window which is secured on the roof itself and this creates a feeling of abundant space and light within a room. They can be used in clusters for added impact but they also look just as spectacular when placed in a carefully considered location, such as over the kitchen bench or in the living room. Velux skylights are more expensive than traditional skylights but they add as much value to the property as they do ambience.

QUARTZ CARPETS Prepare to be floored when you check out Artisan Finishesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Quartz Carpets. The product has been used for many years in Europe, but it is relatively new to Western Australia, particularly in the residential market. Made from natural quartz granules mixed with epoxy resin, the flooring solution is seamless, suitable for indoor and outdoor use and the texture is visually spectacular. It is available in about 20 standard colour options and the size of the granules can also be modified. It can be applied directly over tiles or other types of existing flooring, it is durable, stain resistant and does not need much maintenance. It is priced comparatively with good quality tiles, floor boards and natural stone.

IDEAS FILE

Look for products and finishes that can create a big impact, without stretching the budget. Cooling Brothers printed glass splashbacks can be custom made in any design. OZCOOLROOMS Finally taking their cue from lessons learnt throughout centuries of design excellence in Europe, more and more savvy West Australians are choosing to ditch their fridges in favour of coolrooms. OzCoolrooms, now celebrating nearly 25 years in the local market, can be installed as an under bench appliance, as a cupboard like structure or custom made to fit a bigger space. A coolroom instantly transforms a good kitchen into a fantastic space, capable of catering for parties and making normal shopbought food keep dramatically longer than it would if stored in a normal refrigerator.

LIFTS Shrinking block sizes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly in the inner city, mean more people in Perth are forced to build homes that are double, or in some cases, triple storey. More retirees are choosing to move to inner-city dwellings so that they can better enjoy all that the city and surrounds has to offer, but many are faced with the long-term problem of reduced mobility in the future. The Lift Shop can fix that problem, installing a residential lift in spaces of a few square metres and up. The lifts are extremely safe and easy to operate and maintain and they add enormous value to a property.

PRINTED GLASS They say the kitchen is the heart of any home so it makes sense that special attention should be paid to its fit out. Using printed glass from Cooling Brothers, it is now possible to fully customise splashbacks, transforming them from purely utilitarian to functional art. Glass can be printed in a huge range of standard patterns or made to order using a supplied design.

The kitchen is the hub of the home, so if you are going to splurge, you will get maximum impact by spending money in this area.

TURF WA R S

A leafy green backyard is part of the great Australian dream. Now there’s a turf to suit every situation.

here’s no better time to get your hands dirty in the garden than spring, and if you are looking to make a big impact one of the best places to start is by creating the

perfect patch of turf. Australians have always had a soft spot

for green grass. Some home owners find caring for lawn to be a very rewarding exercise. Others are time poor but still yearn for a garden complete with pristine turf. In recent years, growers have produced more robust lawns in many variations designed to suit a range of situations. Manufacturers have also been working hard to produce artificial turf that looks so believable, even the most discerning green-

It’s hard to believe, but this Green Planet Grass is artificial. 98

thumbs can’t tell the difference. Whether you are looking for the real deal or a top-quality fake, there’s a solution to suit your needs.

OUTSIDE

THE REAL DEAL Peter Paino from Westland Turf says there are many reasons why natural grass can be a fantastic asset in the backyard. Natural lawn is cooler than paving, concrete or decking and it is a soft and beautiful surface. He says there are new varieties coming out all the time and that means there will be

investment strategy because good landscaping

a lawn to suit most people’s needs, provided

could add up to 15 per cent to the value of a

there is enough sun and water available.

home and this type of grass was particularly

“In Perth, most people are planting warm season grasses, which are tolerant of heat but they still need water.” Mr Paino says research conducted at the University of Western

beautiful to look at and soft underfoot.

TAKE YOUR PICK: TOP GRASSES

Palmetto – easy to care for, wide and soft

Australia had revealed that most warm season

blades, can handle some shade and harsh sun,

grasses required a similar amount of water to

drought tolerant, resistant to heavy traffic.

thrive. Queensland Blue Turf Farm’s Karl Rzemek agrees that real lawn can help keep the temperature down on an entire property.

Winter Green – fine leaf with a mid-green

colour, needs at least half a day of sun, grows through winter, resistant to traffic.

Queensland Blue – soft, blue-ish green

Grass can absorb heat from the sun, unlike

leaf, non-invasive, drought tolerant, low-irritant,

other ground covers which reflected the heat.

thrives in a sunny environment, beautiful,

He says choosing Queensland Blue was a clever

carpet-like appearance.

FAKE IT TO MAKE IT

“Our system goes under the turf and it can

Jeff Dennis from Green Planet Grass says there

capture rainwater which can then be used

are many good reasons to use artificial turf in

elsewhere on the garden,” he says.

areas where natural turf wasn’t an option. “A

“What many people fail to appreciate is

lot of people struggle to maintain their natural

that we don’t go digging up beautiful healthy

grass because it is in the shade, or there is a

lawns and replacing them with artificial turf. We

lack of water available, or there is too much

put down artificial turf where lawns don’t work.

sun, or too much foot traffic,” he says. “In

If it wasn’t artificial turf it would be paving or

those situations, artificial turf is the perfect

something else – not natural lawn.”

alternative.” In the past there was been some criticism of artificial turf with people claiming natural

FIVE REASONS TO CONSIDER ARTIFICIAL TURF

grass was better for the environment, Jeff

1. It looks soft and appealing in areas where natural grass

says. But in reality, he argues there are many

could not survive, such as under trees or shade sails.

environmental benefits of installing artificial

2. It is waterwise and can even be used to harvest water for

turf and these were sometimes overlooked.

use on other parts of the garden.

Artificial turf requires no water to maintain and

3. It is low maintenance – only needing occasional weeding

it does not need to be sprayed for weeds.

and no mowing.

Green Planet Grass has just developed a

4. When properly cared for, it can last for 15 to 20 years.

water catchment system which can be used

5. The money and time saved on lawn maintenance can be

under the turf to catch water which in turn

reinvested into other parts of the garden.

can be used to feed other areas of the garden.

SOLUTIONS

HAPPY GLAZE > Keep the heat out in summer without compromising light.

Double glazing not only blocks out extreme temperatures, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter, it also deflects noise.

100

> Keep interiors warmer in winter.

> Keep the peace, external

noise is dramatically reduced.

> Use on some or all windows,

ask an expert to properly assess your needs.

SOLUTIONS

WITH A VIEW TO COMFORT Look no further for effective temperature control

t’s a must-have feature for homes in Europe and the US but many West Australians still don’t fully appreciate the benefits of installing double glazing. Adding the finishing touches to a new

home can be an expensive process and

often people look for ways to trim the budget. But experts agree that spending a few

extra dollars on double glazing can save thousands in the long run and make a home more enjoyable. Will Gallagher from Ecovue says double glazing not only blocks out extreme temperatures, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter, it also deflects noise.

Double glazing keeps internal temperatures stable.

As the name implies, double glazed windows and doors consist of two pieces of glass with an airspace in the middle. The airspace is either airtight vacuum sealed or

be burdensome and affect your life,” he

filled with argon gas.

says. “EuroStar glass uses an inert gas in the

The combination of glasses and air has an insulating effect. Jarek Durczak from Nu-Way Glass and Glazing says double glazing can prevent up

fabrication process of our insulated glass units, known as IGUs to improve the performance of our double glazed glass.” Mr Gallagher says he advises clients not

to 70 per cent of heat loss and stop up to

to rush into any decisions when it comes to

77 per cent of solar heat gain.

installing double glazing.

He says 87 per cent of heat gain in a

“We have different types of glass and we

house comes from windows. And nearly half

make an assessment on which is most suitable

of heat loss is via the same route.

for different windows in the home taking into

According to Fikret Becirbasic from

consideration the aesthetics, the practicality

EuroStar Glazing another major benefit of

and the energy efficiency,” he says. “Sometimes

double glazing is its sound insulation qualities.

we install Low E glass but it may not be

“Aeroplane and other traffic noise can

necessary to install it in every window. 101

More space without the fuss of a traditional extension.

PODS

Now thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an easy way to create extra space for a growing family without the fuss of messy and disruptive construction.

102

ne of the most difficult decisions faced by growing families or people with changed circumstances is whether to move home

We can reduce on site build time by as much as 75 per cent compared with traditional extensions.

SOLUTIONS

or renovate their existing property. Often the existing property will tick

many boxes but simply not be big enough to accommodate an expanding family. Renovating can at times be costly and disruptive, putting many people off working with the home they already have. Traditionally, West Australians have had an unshakable affinity with double brick homes, but as more alternative construction methods become available locally, people are starting to experiment with different options for building and extending. Pre-fabricated second storey pods, predominantly built using state of the art cladding material, are increasing in popularity due to the fact they can be installed in a speedy and fuss-free manner while still delivering fantastic energy performance. Nexus’ Matthew Keogh says many people are surprised by how quickly and easily a modular second storey renovation can be completed. “We can reduce on site build time by as much as 75 per cent compared with traditional extensions,” he says. “By combining new technologies in the fields of modular and traditional building techniques, we can complete home renovations much faster than people realise and without the fuss.” He says the modules are tough and energy efficient. “We are the first home renovation company to have brought this new technology to Western Australia,” he says. “We take care of everything from the initial design to council approvals, the final engineers drawings, building the modules, fixing them into place and completing the structure.

Pre-fabricated pods come with all the trimmings.

103

SOLUTIONS

We use state of the art building materials to make sure the addition is warm in winter and cool in summer.

“As registered builders ourselves, we were quick to realise the advantages of this system which has been used for many years in Europe and North America.” Mr Keogh says modular extensions are as flexible of

traditional extensions and designs were only restricted by the imagination. He said prices were comparable to traditional building methods and includes high quality components such as double glazing, termite treated timber and insulation, making the finished product energy efficient. The cladding used to create the external walls has a thermal performance of nearly eight times that of a double brick wall. “We use state of the art building materials to make sure the addition is warm in winter and cool in summer,” he says. In general, consumers are becoming more accepting of alternative methods of construction. This trend is partly fueled by the constantly increasing demand for housing in the state. More traditional building methods

THE PROCESS Mr Keogh says the first step to adding a modular second storey was

take months to complete so people are more willing to look at alternative options. There are plenty of benefits to using steel

an inspection at the existing property by a Nexus expert.

or timber frame construction other than the

“We then develop the plans to the customer’s requirements. Once

reduced turn around times.

they are happy, we carry out all the building and fitting out of the

Light-weight construction allows

module in our yard in Cockburn Central,” he says.

architects and designers to be more creative

“By fabricating the modules in our yard, we can achieve better

with projects and often the finished results are

quality control and shorten the building process considerably.”

extremely eco-friendly. Mr Keogh says clients

When the module was almost complete, work commenced on

are always surprised by the results that can be

preparing the roof at the existing house.

achieved using this type of construction.

“After a little preparation at the customer’s home, we then crane the

He says the pods can be fitted-out in

modules into place,” Mr Keogh says.

exactly the same finishes and fixtures as

“All that remains then is just for us to install the staircase and a few

builders use in more conventional structures.

finishing touches.

“There are no real compromises,” he says.

The modules arre designed to integrate seamlessly with the original

“The results speak for themselves and people

home, so once they were installed there was only minimal cosmetic

are always stunned by the simplicity of the

work required to create the finished look.

whole procedure. Instead of worrying about

“The customer’s home will only be disrupted for a few weeks, not

the process, they can get on and enjoy the

months.”

results.”

104

TRADITIONAL COLOURS

These design classics are probably more at home on traditional buildings than cutting edge contemporary design. COLORBOND® steel in Classic Cream™, Cottage Green® and Manor Red® are colours that have stood the test of time.

CLASSIC CREAM™

ACCENT COLOURS

Accent colours are expected to change somewhat with a move away from coffee/mocha tones that have enjoyed popularity in recent years to lighter, earthier, woody tones, light grey and increasingly popular red and blue tones. Make a statement with your roof by choosing COLORBOND® steel in Mangrove®, Terrain®, Ironstone® or Cove™.

WOODLAND GREY®

with confidence FULL PAGE ADVERTISEMENT Blue Scope Steel

WITH INSPIRING NEW PALETTES OF 22 COLOURS TO CHOOSE FROM, COLORBOND® STEEL IS THE STARTING POINT TO CREATE THE RIGHT COLOUR SCHEME FOR YOUR ENTIRE HOME. YOUR COLOURS, YOUR CHOICE.

CREATE YOUR COLOUR SCHEME

SHALE GREY™

NEUTRAL & GREY COLOURS

These colours continue to be popular amongst architects, designers and builders. Light, crisp and clean. And with energy-efficiency in mind, consider COLORBOND® steel in Surfmist®, Dune®, Shale Grey™ or Evening Haze®.

FOR FURTHER ADVICE AND TO ORDER YOUR NEW COLOUR CHART

CALL 1800 732 704

It starts with choosing the colour of your roof. We’ll suggest complementary colours from Australia’s leading paint makers that go perfectly with your roof. Simply visit colorbond.com/homebase

FOR INSPIRATION AND COMPLEMENTARY COLOUR SCHEMES

VISIT COLORBOND.COM/HOMEBASE

COLORBOND®, BlueScope and ® colour names are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. ™ colour names are trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. © 2014 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved. HBE32830QF

L E D LIGHT

THERE BE

Turn up the ambience both inside and out thanks to an illumination revolution

hen it comes to

A CHANGING FACE

building or renovating,

Within the space of five years, LED lighting has

it is all too easy to

become the most popular choice for domestic

underestimate the

lighting, by far outstripping sales of halogen,

importance of lighting,

incandescent and fluorescent options.

especially when there

have been so many other details to consider.

seen in this industry in decades. Less than

But getting the lighting plan right and

five years ago, most people were looking at

choosing the right equipment can make or

halogen, but now it is all about LED and the

break the success of a project.

main reason people want them is because of

Good lighting can create fantastic

their longevity,” says HS Reflections’ Ricky

ambience and can highlight some of the more

Fischer. LEDs can provide light for between five

important design features in the home.

and ten years before needing to be replaced

Used well outdoors, it can be spectacular,

106

“It’s probably the biggest trend we have

and they are also cost efficient, more durable

transforming average backyards into dreamy

and kinder to the environment than other

night-time urban sanctuaries.

forms of electric lighting.

SOLUTIONS

Good lighting can transform the feel of any space

Unlike fluorescent lighting, LEDs don’t contain potentially dangerous mercury vapour, so that disposing of them after they are spent, is a simple and safe process. LEDs are brighter and use less electricity than other forms of lighting, resulting in cheaper power bills. The down side is they cost more up front than other options.

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES While the most common use of LEDs is for downlights, they also can be used in feature lighting. LED chips can be used to create really elaborate feature lights and of course they can be used outside, for under-cupboard lighting and really for just about anything. LED chandeliers are also popular because

PERFECT PENDANTS

In the past few years, people have been looking for ways to add more personality to their otherwise functional lighting plans and one of the big trends that has emerged

the bulbs don’t have to be frequently changed.

is the use of feature pendant lighting.

BEFORE YOU GO FURTHER

people to do the bulk of the work in lighting the home,

Ricky says while LED down lights are used by most

> Are they an Australian Accredited Product?

there is also lots of interest in adding feature lights,

Products not approved for use in Australia can

particularly in areas such as over kitchen benchtops and

interfere with other electronic devices including

bedside tables.

televisions, WiFi and even pacemakers.

How long has the manufacturer been in

business? There is no value in a guarantee if

“These days people really are interested in planning for the wow factor,” he says. “They need overall lighting, but they are also

the company you purchase from goes out of

really interested in adding details or highlights and

business.

the pendants or drop pendants as they are sometimes

Where has the product been made? Japan

is one of the world leaders in the production of high-quality LEDs.

> How long is the product guaranteed for?

known, are perfect for that.” Clusters or collections of pendants over the kitchen bench is currently very popular. “This type of look has plenty of wow factor,” Ricky

Some companies will guarantee their LEDs will

says. “It also helps to define the kitchen when you have

last at least ten years in domestic conditions.

big open plan living.”

What is the spread of light emitted? Some

LEDs will not illuminate as effectively as others. 107

Martin used natural stone as a feature 108around the pool and in the alfresco.

GARDENS

electric eclectic Perth landscaper Martin Cuthbert and his wife Liz chose to incorporate natural and recycled decorative elements into their Swanbourne garden and the results speak for themselves.

ne of the best pathways to success is via a long route of trial and error, so you would expect that after years of creating gardens for other people, Perth landscape designer Martin Cuthbert would have a few tricks up his sleeve when it came to creating his own garden. Martin’s own garden boasts lashings of natural stone, organic shapes and textures, classic styling and stunning, lush plantings. “We are a landscape and registered building company and all the work was done by us,” he says. He describes the style as electric eclectic and says it is low maintenance and highly functional. Martin admits he has a soft spot for rustic, natural finishes which contribute to the eclectic element of his design focus. Travertine laid under the retractable patio and around the pool packs a punch visually and Martin says he chose it because it is both beautiful and easy-care. It acts as functional art adding colour and detail to the overall space. Among the many beautiful plants in the garden, Martin’s favourites are the jasmine which will be

109

GARDENS

An impressive outdoor kitchen provides the perfect place to entertain family and friends.

trained to make its way up the external walls of the home and a cherished Poinciana tree. But the garden also features rows of magnolia trees, a mature frangipani, wisteria, citrus and a kitchen patch filled with herbs and tomatoes. Martin says the garden is waterwise, thriving on recycled greywater distributed via drip irrigators and topped with mulch to keep the garden beds moist. The space is also dotted with a range of interesting recycled items, including a water feature made from copper pipe offcuts and items salvaged from the famed rabbit-proof fence and the old Fremantle jetty. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a well-appointed alfresco kitchen which features solid marri benchtops and stone splashbacks. The cupboards are made from recycled jarrah floorboards. A flued wood-fire oven takes pride of place, working double time as a place to cook meat or pizza and providing a cosy spot to entertain after the cooking is done.

110

Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outdoor kitchen features lots of rustic finishes making it practical and durable.

GARDENS

GET THE LOOK electric eclectic >

Travertine – similar available

Pool fencing – similar available

> >

Plants – check out Waldecks.

from Rural Stone Company. from Balustrading WA. Outdoor kitchen – for similar

try Earth, Wind and Fire.

“The garden is waterwise thriving on recycled greywater...”

111

There are many creative uses for decorative concrete. This clever creation is by Hanson.

112

IDEAS

OUTDOOR

WOW These days there are plenty of options for turning an ordinary backyard into a fantastic space. WORDS KRISTEN WATTS

hile Perth may

to make sure their backyard is a natural

not have the

extension of their home.

night life or

In recent years the popularity of

cultural vibrancy

alfrescos, outdoor kitchens and loggias

that other major

has sky rocketed and people go to great

Australian cities

lengths to ensure their yards are as

have, it does boast an amazing climate and plenty of fresh, unpolluted air. With moderate temperatures most

stunning as their interior spaces. Pools, lush gardens, carefully considered external lighting, water

of the year round, it is little wonder

features and even pizza ovens are now

Perth home owners go to great lengths

common place in WA backyards. Concrete jungles studded with Hills Hoists are a thing of the past, todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backyards command attention and draw visitors outside to soak up resort-style grounds. Creating an outdoor haven is easy when you have some good-quality key ingredients to work with and these days there are plenty of options on offer.

COMPOSITE DECKING Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something really appealing about the look and feel of natural timber underfoot, especially in the outdoors and for this reason decking has been a popular choice for external flooring for quite some time.

Trex composite decking.

But some home owners have become frustrated with the amount of 113

IDEAS

attention natural decking requires in order to prevent twisting, warping and general deterioration. In America, composite decking has been

Spruce up any space using laser cut decorative screens, like these from Q Design.

extremely popular among home owners for some time because it offers the look and feel of timber with the durability of plastic. Trex composite decking is made with a

If steel or aluminium stretches the budget too much, check out Innos House, which

mix of saw dust and plastic. It is light-weight

produces a range of hard density fibreboard

and easy to install yet it does not warp or

laser cut screens. The screens are weatherproof

discolour like natural timbers.

and a good alternative for the real deal when

It can be custom made in curved shapes and comes in a huge range of standard colours and widths. It is easy to install and there are no visible clips or screws.

you are looking for clever ways to get bang for your buck.

DECORATIVE CONCRETE Gone are the days when paving and concrete

ARCHITECTURAL SCREENS If you are tired of staring at boring fences and

Savvy home owners are turning to

walls, Q Design architectural screens could be

decorative concrete to make their outdoor

the solution you have been searching for.

spaces really shine and when you look at the

Made from Corten steel or aluminium,

results you can see why the finish is so popular.

James Roget’s stunning decorative screens can

Available in different aggregates and

be used as fencing infill, as decorative features

textures, Hanson decorative concrete is

around pools or to add interest to bland spaces

versatile and its applications are only limited by

and walls, both inside and out.

imagination.

James’ products have already earned him

“Most things can be done, but they may

a reputation for creating stunning pieces which

not necessarily be cost effective. But is always

are a work of art in themselves.

worth asking the question if it can be done at a

Q Design also produces a spectacular range of paving and other outdoor decorative

114

were the only options for outdoor flooring.

reasonable cost,” Hanson’s Josh Maldon says. It can be used in place of brick paving, for

features. The screens come in standard sizes or

internal feature flooring and to create custom

can be made to order.

built feature walls. “We’re not talking about

Decorative concrete by Hanson.

standard grey concrete,” he says. “This is a decorative, high end alternative to many of the standard materials that people are used to using.” “There’s lots of uses for coloured concrete,” he said. “It really can lift the product to a whole new level. “Aside from the obvious benefits with the way it looks, coloured concrete is easier to maintain in the long term, it also tends to acquire a really desirable patina and I suppose overall it looks more expensive so it can really add value to a property.”

ALFRESCO KITCHENS With so many people now spending a huge amount of time outdoors, both in the summer and winter months, it makes sense that many home owners want a second kitchen outside. A few Perth companies have mastered the art of providing weatherproof outdoor kitchens that very often become the entertaining hub of the home. Today’s alfresco kitchens house everything from barbecues to pizza ovens and traditional ovens and fridges and they’re no longer exclusively stainless steel. There’s a range of all weather products available that allow home owners to create an exact replica of their indoor kitchen, except that it is weatherproof. Wayne Pavy from Resort & Alfresco says outdoor kitchens seemed to appeal to men, women and children for different reasons. “Husbands love them because they can do their own style of cooking outside the main house and this takes pressure off the main kitchen especially when things get smokey or

WAYNE PAVY’S TOP TIPS FOR ALFRESCO KITCHENS

> Ensure cabinets are 100 per cent waterproof as

ambient atmospheric moisture will wreak havoc on materials not up to the task.

> Choose hard wearing benchtop surfaces as there is a lot of extra oil and heavy cooking utensils used outdoors.

> If using timber on doors, make sure it is a species that will stand up to outdoor use and high moisture exposure. Teak is a good option.

> If possible, choose a location for the alfresco

kitchen that is sheltered from weather all year round this will help to keep the maintenance down.

> Make sure a sink is included for cooking, washing and cleaning.

> Seek professional help in the design of your

alfresco kitchen as there are many regulations to comply with.

smelly,” he says. 115

pools The secret to turning a backyard into a private oasis is installing a spectacular splash zone.

116

This modern home features Austral Bricks and a stunning pool.

OUTDOOR LIVING

ne of the best things about living in sunny Perth is that there’s plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Pools can add to the

overall ambience of a property, and even when they are not in use during the cooler months, they act as a giant water feature. Elaborate alfresco areas, beautiful pools, ponds and spas are all common place these days as people try to make the most

home from work and there are even things like

of precious down time and Perth’s beautiful

automatic in-floor cleaning systems which cut

weather by creating luxurious personal

down the amount of time required to look after

sanctuaries.

the pool.”

Concrete pools are particularly covetable

Caroline says taking the layout of the

because they can be more versatile than those

house into consideration is the key to perfect

made from fibreglass. Another benefit is that

pool design.

they can be incorporated more easily into small backyards. Neo Pools’ Caroline Ayres, who also builds stunning concrete pools, says features such as honed aggregate pool edges, glass windows,

“One of the best ways to get the most out of your pool area is to design it in conjunction with the house. That way, you get more options and usually less expense,” she says. She also encourages clients to get specific

negative edges and geometric shapes were

about the expected functionality of their

just some of the design options being used to

proposed pool.

create spectacular results for her clients at the moment. “These days, pools are tending to be

“It is best for people to try and pinpoint what they want to achieve with their pool. Is it somewhere to cool off? Is it somewhere to

water features in themselves, they’re no longer

relax with a spa and jets? Are they going to use

just for swimming,” she says.

it for exercise or do they need to be mindful of

“Pools are being wrapped around alfresco areas so they can be seen from the living areas

creating a pool that children can use safely?” Other things to consider include heating

of the home, there are wireless pool control

and aesthetics and once the overall brief is

systems which utilise smartphone apps so that

really clear, it is easier to create the perfect

spas can be turned on before people arrive

design. 117