My Renovation August 2023

FIVE IDEAS TO KICK START YOUR RENOVATION PROJECT

Thirty years ago Australian homes were simpler with more shared spaces. Children regularly shared bedrooms and many homes had one bathroom.

Over the years, the concept of ensuites grew in popularity. Today, it is not unusual for the master bedroom, and even a secondary bedroom, to incorporate a bathroom. The HIA Kitchens & Bathrooms Report 2022/23 echoes this sentiment.

Figures show a recent increase in the number of bathrooms in a home – up from 2.2 in 2019 to 2.6 in 2022. Homeowners are also upgrading their bathrooms sooner.

If you’re thinking about embarking on your own renovation, you won’t want to miss this month’s cover story where we share some ideas on how to renovate your bathroom.

06 COVER STORY

Bathroom project ideas

10 BEDROOM

Create a sleep haven

12 STYLE

Pretty in pink

14 EXPERT ADVICE with Cassandra Fenaughty

16 COOL HOMES

Let the sun shine 22 EXPERT ADVICE

How to use a fan in winter

BATHROOM BLISS

Renovating a bathroom takes work and a substantial budget but the overall result is worth every cent. Here, we share the steps to help you get your reno project underway.

The fi rst step in your path to a better bathroom is to plan your layout. Start by assessing the available space and plan the layout accordingly. Think about the placement of fi xtures like the toilet, sink, shower and bathtub. Consider durable and moisture-resistant materials like ceramic or porcelain tiles for the flooring. Waterproof and easy-to-clean wall materials are also essential for a bathroom.

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We love the Omega in-wall swivel spout and the Mesh in-wall top assemblies set in brushed brass from Highgrove Bathrooms.

Personalised Service and Expert Advice NORM EVANS FLOORS

Source: energy.gov.au

Replace outdated fi xtures like faucets, showerheads and towel racks. Be sure to choose water-ef fi cient options that will stand the test of time and enhance both aesthetics and functionality. We recommend incorporating eco-friendly elements like lowflow toilets, water-ef fi cient fi xtures and energy-ef fi cient lighting to reduce your environmental footprint, and also save money on your bills.

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By using more water-efficient products Australians could save $2 billion by 2030, an average saving of $175 per household each year.

Part of the fun of renovating is deciding on the overall style that you want to achieve. Do you want a modern, traditional, minimalist or eclectic look? Once you settle on this, you can start to choose your fixtures, tiles and accessories. Experiment with different tile patterns or textures to add visual interest. Lighting is another consideration. Incorporate a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting. Consider installing wall sconces, overhead lights or even a skylight for natural illumination.

Lighter shades can make a small bathroom appear larger, while bold colours or patterns will add personality and flair.

Don’t overlook ventilation. Good ventilation in the form of windows and an exhaust fan will help prevent mould and moisture build up. According to the Australian Government’s Your Home guide to environmentally sustainable homes, mechanical extractor fans serve as a dependable solution for managing moisture accumulation and humidity levels in kitchens and bathrooms. These fans should be vented to the outside and not into roof spaces or other cavities. Be sure that adequate draught stoppers are fitted to the fans to prevent unwanted air exchange when not in operation.

Once the actual renovation is completed, it’s time to add the fi nishing touches. Select artwork, linen, plants, mirrors and accessories that you love and bring the whole design together.

MAKE

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You will want to include ample storage for your towels, toiletries and other essentials. Opt for wall-mounted cabinets, open shelves or vanity units with built-in storage.

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CREATING A SLEEP HAVEN

Here are our tips to revive your bedroom into a cosy retreat.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

When it comes to renovating your master bedroom, you will fi rst need to decide on both the style and architectural design of the space. Write a list highlighting your must-haves, as well as a wishlist that you can narrow down according to your budget. In relation to a style for the room, start with a neutral palette and then build colour and personality into the room.

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Use warm, gentle lighting in your bedroom. Reserve strong lighting for busy areas such as the kitchen.

SOFTEN AND STYLE

Carpet is the traditional flooring material for the bedroom and for good reason. It brings warmth and comfort into room, as well as a sense of luxury. Because the bedroom isn’t a high-foot traf fi c area, you can install a beautiful wool or soft synthetic product to the space.

The experts at Hills Robes and Screens recommend mixing tones, colours and surface textures to create a visually pleasing wardrobe. Using a mix of light and dark colours for your wardrobe surfaces can also add depth to your robe and give the illusion that it is bigger than it is. You can also consider continuing

DID YOU KNOW?

According to research conducted by Hipages, it costs between $2000 (for a basic flooring and lighting upgrade) and $35,000 (for a full renovation, including the ensuite) to complete a bedroom renovation.

tipEmbrace your personal style and incorporate as much – or as little – bold and bright pink tones as you choose. There are no rules.

2 4 5 3 6

IT’S A BARBIE WORLD

Barbiecore is taking the world by storm. Everywhere you turn, you'll find the pink doll-inspired merchandise. When it comes to introducing the look into your home, think small touches and splashes of rose, blush and fuchsia.

Stockists

1. Add edge to your kitchen or bathroom splashback with a pop of pink. We recommend using soft or earth-like tones that won’t date, such as the Edge Pink Wave from Jerry and the Tilemakers. Talk to your local tiling experts about the latest products and trends. 2. The Kaelan metal pendant light in pink will shine bright above your dining room table or kitchen island bench. It’s from Discount Lighting and Fans, Warana. 3. Beautifully soft with a short pile front and plush reverse, the Sherpa pink salt blanket is a must-have. It's available from Adairs. 4. Introduce fun, fresh florals to your home with the Poppy embroidered cushion and its array of pinks, oranges, yellows and greens. It's from Pillow Talk. 5. Bring a pop of colour to your floral displays with the hot pink hibiscus flower from Domayne. 6. The statement Form vase in pink features a glossy outer glaze and is an elegant vessel to display flowers. Visit Coast Store, Cotton Tree.

DESIGN DREAM

Cassandra Fenaughty is a landscape architect with more than 20 years’ experience. She is the founder and owner of an innovative renovation design consultancy, creating photoreal renovation concepts for clients looking to visualise their dream renovation before it begins. For more visit cassandrafenaughty.com.

HOW TO: ADD A POOL

In the picturesque Sunshine Coast, one resident faced a unique landscaping challenge that may resonate with many homeowners in the area.

With their existing home boasting magnificent views in a beautiful street, the homeowner desired to incorporate a pool and entertaining area.

However, they encountered obstacles due to limited

backyard space and a sloping front yard that posed privacy and design concerns.

At first the homeowner contemplated installing a pool in their small backyard.

However, this option presented several drawbacks.

The area was predominantly shaded and small, rendering it unsuitable for a pool and entertainment space.

Additionally, it lacked connectivity to the living areas, making it an inconvenient location for hosting gatherings.

Faced with these challenges, the homeowner shifted gears and embarked on finding an alternative plan.

Plan B involved utilising the expansive front yard to breathe life into their design vision.

To create an exceptional design within this space, several key considerations needed to be addressed. First and foremost, the levels had to be taken into account. With the house situated on a higher level, it was essential to establish a harmonious connection between the pool area and the main living areas via a space-saving spiral staircase on the front deck.

Moreover, privacy from the street became a priority to ensure an intimate and secluded ambience. Designing a pool on a sloping block comes with its own set of challenges. Fortunately, a creative and cost-effective solution was devised.

The landscape design integrates the pool into the landscape, utilising the natural topography as an advantage rather than a hindrance, creating “outdoor rooms” for the pool area, fire pit and turfed “run around” space.

The successful design revolved around achieving a delicate balance between functionality, aesthetics, and practicality.

The pool was strategically positioned to take advantage of the sloping terrain, creating a visually pleasing focal point while maximising views and privacy.

Careful consideration was given to the surrounding elements, incorporating lush greenery and natural landscaping features to enhance the overall ambience.

Connectivity was also a crucial aspect of the design process. By connecting the pool area with the main living spaces via the deck, a more direct transition was achieved.

This landscape design

showcases the power of innovation, collaboration and perseverance.

By embracing the unique challenges presented by the sloping block and prioritising functionality and aesthetics, the homeowner will be able to fulfil their dream of a beautiful pool and entertaining area.

Through the expertise of dedicated professionals, the limitations can be overcome, and visions brought to life.

This story serves as an inspiration for Sunshine Coast residents facing similar landscape design dilemmas, proving that with the right mindset and a creative approach, any challenge can be transformed into opportunity.

Ask

us

Do you have a landscaping or renovation question? Email your questions to enquiries@ cassandrafenaughty.com.

he Sunshine Coast subtropical climate sets the scene for a lifestyle focused on enjoying life outside. However, if we don’t consider our local climate and environment in building design, our lifestyle, our health and our private property investments

may suffer.

Our natural environment, that took millions of years to form, may be compromised

The Sunshine Coast Council has created tools and tips to help inform and educate good design to enhance and protect the liveability of our region.

tip!

Use sunlight to illuminate and warm your home.

Let the sunshine in — especially to your living spaces. The northern side of your home will have the best exposure to the sun for natural light and warmth.

With this in mind, think carefully about which rooms need to be well lit. Most likely this will be your lounge room and kitchen. Large windows or sliding glass doors — facing north — are a great

way to let winter sunlight in. During winter, you’ll be grateful for not just the sunlight but also the warmth. And speaking of the sun, why not consider solar panels to produce your energy?

To make the most of the sun and daylight, consider deciduous trees that provide shade in the summer but allow sunlight through in winter.

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ALL SHUTTERS,

Both appeasing to the eye and working as a passive cooling technique, clerestory windows are an architectural element that sit above eye level. This series of windows allow natural light to flow into the home and air to circulate.

LOCALLY OWNED

ROLLERS GENERATORS DEMOLITION SCISSOR LIFTS COMPRESSORS

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

• Large windows will let natural light in, so you won’t need lights on during the day.

• The best side for well-lit rooms is to the north and the next best option is to the east.

• Swap large panes of immovable glass or blank walls for windows that can be opened and shaded.

• Add clerestory windows or solar tubes to southern rooms if they are dark.

• Keep your floorplan as open as possible to let light fi lter through.

ACCESS EQUIPMENT EARTHMOVING LANDSCAPING SCAFFOLD PUMPS

WHAT ARE CLERESTORY WINDOWS?

‘Our natural environment, that took millions of years to form, may be compromised.’

INFORMED

Sunshine Coast Council is focused on providing the tools to help inform and educate good design to enhance and protect the liveability of our region.

• Download a free copy of the Sunshine Coast design compass by scanning the QR code for the Cool Homes flipbook.

• The Sunshine Coast Design book (also known as The Yellow Book) – available online for free or hard copy coffee tables books can be purchased from selected Sunshine Coast bookstores. Visit sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ development/developmenttools-and-guidelines/sunshinecoast-design/sunshine-coastdesign-book.

• The Cool Homes Design Guide – a free guide with handy tips for people buying, building, or renovating. Visit sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ development/developmenttools-and-guidelines/sunshinecoast-design/coolhomes.

• The Sunshine Coast design compass – a free tool to assist with building orientation and room layout. Visit propertycompass. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

• Free online courses to learn the fundamentals of designing your home for our local climate. Visit sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au/development/ development-tools-andguidelines/sunshine-coastdesign/freeonlinecourse.

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ASPEN Freestanding Bath Matte White 1700mm - AS1700-M - $1690

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Push Plate For Pneumatic Cistern Brushed Brass - HK174-BB - $189

Concealed Pneumatic In Wall Cistern With Wall Bracket - K301A-Q - $420

SEASONAL CHANGE

The experts from Discount Lighting and Fans in Warana tell us why installing

ceiling fans in winter months can be beneficial.

Aceiling fan is a must-have for beating the summer heat, but did you know that it can also be a gamechanger during the winter months? Using your ceiling fan year-round can lead to energy savings and improved heat distribution, making your living space more comfortable, regardless of the season.

When shopping for a ceiling fan, it’s crucial to consider various factors. Blade span, which determines the diameter of the fan, should be matched to the size of your room. Talk to

IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK

the experts at your local store about the best fi t for your home. You will need to consider the cubic metres per minute rule, motor size and ef fi ciency ratings.

Summer versus winter modes

Contrary to popular belief, ceiling fans don’t only assist at home during summer.

Many models have a switch near the centre that allows you to change the direction of the blades.

By setting the fan to rotate clockwise during winter, warm air that accumulates near the ceiling is gently pushed down towards the walls and floor.

This ef fi cient circulation of heated air helps to reduce energy consumption, allowing you to lower your thermostat while maintaining comfort.

Fans are easy to install and can be a cost-effective alternative to space heaters.

In comparison, setting a fan to a counter-clockwise rotation during summer will create a

refreshing breeze by pushing air downwards. Embracing the versatility of ceiling fans is a smart move for any homeowner. By harnessing the power of ceiling fans year-round, you can enjoy cost savings, increased comfort and a more energyef fi cient home environment.

For more information visit discountlightingandfans.com.au

Many fans have a switch that allow you to change blade direction

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE

Reality TV renovators

Josh and Jenna Densten share their secrets to creating a whimsical children’s bedroom.

Serial renovators and beloved former contestants of The Block, Josh and Jenna Densten, are known for their signature minimalistic style. However, their latest project, a heritage home in Victoria’s Rutherglen, has given the dynamic duo the chance to spread their creative wings and explore a vibrant colour palette. While earthy greens, muted greys and warm browns will undoubtedly grace various rooms throughout the house, Josh and Jenna have taken a bold step by embracing soft pastels for their

Images: Dulux Colour Forecast 2023 – Balance palette. Styling: Josh and Jenna Densten. Photographer: Eve Wilson.

Before

girls’ joint bedroom. Drawing inspiration from the 2023 Dulux Colour Forecast Balance palette, they have carefully curated a space that exudes charm and personality.

Refined and reassuring, the Balance palette features weathered pastels, gentle greens and serene marine blues with a focus on immersive colour that runs from wall to ceiling.

It is ideal to use for exquisite detailing too, such as on the sweeping curve of a bedhead or borders around a fireplace.

Describing the palette as “a modern muted take on nature that works seamlessly together,” Josh and Jenna loved the ethereal feeling of the palette and were particularly drawn to the way the soft pastel pink and green shades were accentuated when complemented against neutral tones.

For Josh and Jenna, it was important to be able to easily mix and match colours from the palette in order to create a whimsical and fun room for their girls that also worked in harmony with the existing architectural features of the home.

“The rooms in the heritage home have such a beautiful grandeur and we felt that the sophisticated dusty pink shade of Dulux Mornington was perfectly complementary to the heritage features of the home and the playfulness that we wanted to

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achieve within the space.”

Explaining that the pink hue selected for the walls evoked a sense of nostalgia for them, Josh and Jenna added that: “Mornington brings you back to your fun, shared childhood room or even the room at your grandparents’ home full of trinkets, interesting artwork and vintage elements.”

Completely enveloping the space in colour, Josh and Jenna created a seamless blend from the walls to the floor.

“We love that the wall colour matches the skirting. It allows the

generous space and fit out of the room to shine, yet feels grounded against the white ceiling.

“The floor-to-ceiling curtains also showcase the height of the ceiling upon entry to the room and visually softens the rendered walls and oak flooring.”

Carefully selecting objects and fixtures that balance out the old and new played a key role in achieving Josh and Jenna’s desired feel for their girls’ room.

“We love the sophisticated yet playful feel of the scalloped glass wall lights that perfectly complement the ethereal look and

feel of the Balance palette, as did the sheer floor-to-ceiling curtains.”

Josh and their carpenter also crafted handmade elements around the room, including a custom curved mantle, scalloped pelmets, a fireplace toy shelf and ornaments around the windows, doors and robes.

“Vintage elements collected over years add a unique and curated aspect to the bedroom that creates a sense of nostalgia.”

The couple selected neutral accent colours from the palette to complement the dusty pink colour of the walls and skirtings to add detail and interest.

Josh and Jenna also applied the deep and moody blue shade of Sea Kelp to accent pieces, including a vase and a children’s toy high chair.

“The end result has added so much interest to the room.

“Traditionally we have used Dulux Natural White in our projects and allowed our furniture and objects to add detail, but [the colour] Mornington has brought a

certain nostalgia and shared interest amongst the architecture, furniture and décor.

“We have found that the room is a shared hero piece amongst our objects now.”

Josh and Jenna’s biggest tip when selecting colour? Consider the architecture of the property and use of the room.

Josh and Jenna’s styling tips

Want to recreate this modern yet nostalgic look at home? Here’s Josh and Jenna’s top tips.

1. Don’t be scared to move toward some of the moodier colours like Dulux Sea Kelp, Nephrite or Deep Garnett when using the Balance palette. It’s been fun experimenting with different shades to set the perfect mood for each room.

2. Curate as many objects as you can. We have been collecting ceramics, vintage art and furniture for more than 10 years. We’re huge fans of rehoming old objects that can add new colours and textures to our spaces and can be great conversation starters with guests. You can always paint these objects a fresh shade to better complement the space as well.

3. Don’t compromise on window furnishings. This is a space that is often overlooked in

project planning but can make a huge impression on a room. The correct selection of furnishings assist not only with privacy but heating and cooling and acoustics.

Perforated

Dulux Sea Kelp

Dulux Mornington

Dulux Casper White Quarter

We are in love with the beautiful Kensington Parquetry 245centimetre dining table. Crafted from mango wood, it showcases a detailed woodgrain, while the parquetry pattern has been handcrafted onto the rectangular tabletop. Visit Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre

Elegant and inspired by Australia’s native flora, the white stoneware Robert Gordon Field Day jug makes for a stunning serveware piece.

Recently renovated your dining room? Here are some beautiful products to style the finished project.

Featuring a beautiful stripe pattern, the rectangular Taylor Stripe set of four placemats brings cool watery hues to the table. Its versatility means it can be styled to suit formal and informal dining. It’s from Coast Store, Cotton Tree.

we love!

The limited edition stretch canvas, All There in Nature, by Raelean Hall is from Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery, Warana.

The Housewood console from in Mooloolaba is made from reclaimed timber. The white-washed finish will suit a contemporary or Hamptons-style

conso Coastal Drift Home M nis contemporary or Hamp dining room.

When styling your dining space, choose a primary colour and then introduce secondary colours from there.

An absolute must-have if you’re hosting a dinner party, the Jamboree dining chair pad in blue is simple yet elegant –not to mention, comfortable! Available from Pillow Talk

For a limited time, when you buy any frame, you’ll receive a complimentary print for free! Don’t miss out on this

Bring

We adore this set of four napkins from Coast Store , Cotton Tree. Each napkin features a sketch of various species that have been screen painted in green by hand.

Both

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Green,

We create lasting, functional environments

We’ve been providing quality blinds, screens and curtains that are made to withstand the Sunshine Coast climate since 1982. Our loyal customers receive end-to-end service that includes local manufacture, installation and after-sales support. Our local team of over 20 specialised staff are based in our interactive showroom.