Splurge vs save
BUDGETING FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN
Splurge vs save
BUDGETING FOR YOUR NEW KITCHEN
2023 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2021 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2020 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2020 Sunshine Coast Renovated Kitchen of the Year
2019 Sunshine Coast Kitchen of the Year
2019 Sunshine Coast Kitchen Design
2019 Queensland Kitchen of the Year
elcome to the festive edition of My Renovation With Christmas just around the corner, we’ve packed this issue with tips and inspiration to get your home holiday-ready. From the latest trends (blue royale or fiesta fun, anyone?) to fresh ideas for styling your spaces, we’re here to help you create a magical season.
Our regular pool expert, Sean Lynch from Poolfab, is back with more advice – this time focusing on the benefits of splashing out on a smart pool. Turn to page 22.
As always, we’ve got plenty more to inspire you, including the latest in industry news, practical outdoor tips and practical kitchen budgeting ideas.
We hope you enjoy this special edition. From all of us at My Renovation, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season. We’ll be back in February with more inspiration for your home.
Organisational tips and decor ideas, from page
wonderland
Christmas
The latest industry news
KITCHEN Splurge vs save
Building a carport
POOLS & OUTDOORS Smart pools
POOLS & OUTDOORS Natural stone
FINISHING TOUCHES
Products, looks and styles
The holiday season is here, which means it's time to prep your home for the hustle and bustle of Christmas. Whether you're hosting a big celebration or accommodating house guests, here’s how to ensure your space is ready to shine.
If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, it’s the ultimate summertime feature – but remember that it needs some TLC before it can steal the spotlight this Christmas. Start with safety. Inspect your pool fence for any damage, test the gate latch and replace it if necessary. Update CPR signage and remove any climbable furniture or overhanging branches near the pool area.
To keep the water sparkling and safe for swimming, the Queensland Swimming Pool and Spa Association recommends the following:
• Maintain a chlorine residual of one to two milligrams per litre.
• Test your water regularly to ensure chemical levels are balanced.
• Remember that a strong chlorine smell often indicates too little chlorine, not too much.
TIP: Create a welcoming poolside vibe by adding outdoor fairy lights or solar lanterns for evening swims and festive ambience.
The summer heat can be tough on gardens, but with the right care, you can create a lush, inviting space for outdoor entertaining.
Choose plants that thrive in the heat and require minimal watering, like dwarf bougainvilleas, succulents and dipladenias. For garden beds, opt for vibrant, heat-loving blooms like petunias, zinnias and marigolds or hardy perennials such as agapanthus and mandevillas.
To give your plants the best start, invest in good-quality soil and water them thoroughly during their first few weeks. For pots, check that drainage is adequate, especially during summer storms.
TIP: Keep an eye on pot saucers after heavy rain. Empty them to avoid waterlogging and prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Add a festive touch to your garden by planting seasonal herbs like basil and rosemary, which not only thrive in summer but also add fresh flavours to your Christmas cooking. If they aren’t quite ready for these holidays, they’ll be well and truly thriving by next Christmas.
Deep clean: Give your home a refresh by tackling those often-overlooked spots. Dust ceiling fans, wash walls and clean air-conditioning vents. For a more efficient cooling system, remove air-conditioner filters, rinse them in warm soapy water and let them dry completely before reinstalling. Quick fixes: Now’s the time to tackle small repairs. Replace burnt-out bulbs, mend torn window screens and tighten or replace loose door handles.
Declutter and organise: Create space for incoming gifts by decluttering kids’ rooms and donating unused toys or books. Invest in functional yet stylish storage options like woven baskets or stackable shelves for a tidier home.
TIP: Place a basket near the front entrance for shoes and hats to keep sandy feet and other things from cluttering your indoor spaces during holiday visits.
Bring the relaxed elegance of the beach to your Christmas table this year. With shades of blue and green and natural textures, a coastal theme creates a refreshing twist on traditional holiday decor.
Start with a simple linen tablecloth in a sandy beige or crisp white. A raffia or woven runner adds texture, setting the scene for your beach-inspired decor. For the centrepiece, gather together shells, driftwood and a few sprigs of eucalyptus for a fresh, coastal feel. Foraged bits and pieces like shells or dried seaweed can add an authentic, organic touch. Silver or aqua ornaments add a subtle Christmas touch without overwhelming the beachy vibe.
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For a magical glow, fill small mason jars with sand and pop in tea lights to create DIY lanterns. Alternatively, find some soft blue or green candelabras – they look striking and will bring some height to your overall table setting.
Tip: If you can’t find any candelabras in the colour you want, try out your DIY skills and paint some!
We’re
Experience the feel of working with a small builder – one person dedicated to your project every step of the way.
The Livia glassware range features a
ombre blend of blue hues that gives
This aqua shell fish from Complete Christmas, Warana.
Keep the place settings light and breezy with white ceramic or light blue plates. For napkins, tie with twine or raffia, and add a small shell or eucalyptus sprig.
Glassware with a slight tint of blue or green will complete the look. Tip: Use pieces of driftwood as name card holders for a personal touch, perfect for adding a bit of fun and character.
Add natural greenery like eucalyptus garlands or twigs and leaves you find around the yard down the centre of the table. Not only does it enhance the overall theme, but it brings a fresh scent and extra texture to your decor.
Go with a block colour for the base – either a white or red tablecloth – and build from there. Layer on a table runner in the opposite colour (to create that candy cane feel) and let oversized faux lollipops and candy canes be the stars of your centrepiece. Arrange them in fun vases or scatter them along the table for a Christmas festival-like feel. Add jars of lollies, gingerbread men and other colourful festive treats.
This Christmas, transform your table into a scene straight from candy land. Imagine candy canes, lollipops and a touch of nostalgic magic as you create a joyful tablescape.
Bring a bit of sparkle to your table with small glass baubles or bells in reds, pinks and whites, nestled between place settings or the main centrepiece. Fairy lights strung overhead or tucked into the centrepiece add that magical glow to make your dining room feel like an enchanted Christmas wonderland. Tip: Opt for battery-operated tea lights for safety and convenience.
Choose white or red plates and top with smaller, holiday-themed dessert plates. For a finishing touch, candy cane napkin rings add a quirky flair, while napkins patterned in candy cane colours bring a pop of fun. Pair with clear glassware, ideally with a hint of metallic detailing, to finish the look.
Pink and red are a great colour combo for Christmas – equal festive and fun.
6/22-24 Link Crescent, Coolum Beach
Our experienced cabinet makers specialise in designing, constructing, and renovating both kitchens and bathrooms. From adding additional storage space to installing splashbacks and benchtops, we only work with industry-leading suppliers like Caesarstone, Polytec, Quantum Quartz and more.
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1 2 3 4 5
The palette: Opt for sunburnt oranges, hot pinks and a splash of aqua.
Stockists
Bright colours, bold patterns and a touch of the tropics – we are absolutely on board with this new-look holiday theme.
1. Meticulously handcrafted, the Beaded Sun hanging decoration features a radiant sun adorned with gold beads and a cheerful smiley face, available from Pillow Talk 2. This entire look is spot on – the Festive Multi Fringe coasters and Bardot pink and green coupe glasses are from Adairs 3. Bring a splash of fun and colour to your tree with the Antique Pink Parrot glass ornament. Visit Adairs 4. Find your inspiration from Dulux’s range of colours. The Go Alpha teal can be used to handpaint decorations for your table display or tree. 5. Build a bouquet in an aqua or pink-coloured vase. Use different textures and heights. We like this peony spray in orange from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre
Amysterious home which has been under construction for nearly 40 years is set to be completed by new owners.
No.1 Mora Court, Coolum Beach, has become the subject of much speculation over the years.
Real estate agent Daniel Powers discovered the truth about the building, and was able to sell it, after a chance meeting in August with the then-owners.
Mr Powers says the home, a concrete structure of Tuscan or Mediterranean influence, is
well-known in Coolum and a topic of conversation. “Some people say it’s a bomb shelter, other people say it’s a haunted house. People talk about it being an environmental conservatory.”
The original owner, a concreter and draftsman, bought the land in 1976 and, after research and planning, began building what seemed to be his dream house in 1984. Following the ownerbuilder’s death in 2017, the unfinished house passed to a work colleague.
“They didn’t have the
resources or the time to see it completed.” The McGrath Real Estate Coolum specialist began speaking to potential buyers who he thought might have the interest, capability or resources to do something with the incomplete but solidly built house.
“We also had a meeting with the partner of the builder and got to know the stories of the place and the history.”
Mr Powers says they have also been able to piece together more of the owner-builder’s vision on every visit to the property.
“I think he was a person who had really compelling ideas and he wanted to do something that was going to stand the test of time. He was going to make sure the house didn’t go anywhere. I think that’s what he was trying to do: build a dream home for himself.”
Among the discoveries was the provision for a lift to nowhere – beyond the upper floor – just to enjoy the view.
“We feel like the top level would have been living and kitchen, the second level down would have been three bedrooms,
one of them being a master,” Mr Powers says.
“One of the interesting things about the property as the ownerbuilder had designed, it was going to have a garage that was probably going to be the killer of all garages in Coolum. Another one of the interesting finds… was that there was going to be a fish tank headboard behind the bed.”
Mr Powers says the ownerbuilder also planned to have an adjustable fibre-glass floor inside the pool shell so it could transform from paddle pool to deep water, although the method of operation remained unclear.
After drawing multiple offers, the home changed hands, with all parties requesting their details remain private. Mr Powers says the new owners want to honour the original owner’s vision yet breathe new life and modern-day functionality into the property.
He says they intended to incorporate some of the items found in the house “to tell the story of the home”.
For more property news, visit sunshinecoastnews.com.au.
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The federal government has unveiled a targeted initiative to boost the adoption of prefab, modular and other innovative construction methods.
It’s a move welcomed by the Housing Industry Association (HIA) as a vital step toward increasing Australia’s housing supply. The plan aims to address regulatory barriers, streamline approvals and support local manufacturers in scaling up production, with industry leaders emphasising its potential to tackle housing shortages.
HIA chief executive, industry and policy, Simon Croft, says the initiative will help build momentum towards adopting innovative forms of construction practices.
“HIA has been advocating extensively over the past few years, on the need to develop more tailored rules for these forms of construction as regulatory roadblocks are currently hindered their adoption, delaying projects and impacting on construction
costs,” he says. “Part of [the]… announcement includes the federal government working with states and territories and key industry bodies to clear bottlenecks and cut red tape that is preventing housing being delivered faster, which industry has long called for.
“This includes supporting Australian manufacturers to invest in the factories and machinery to enable them to upscale in production of [the] Modern Methods of Construction [program]. As well as addressing our building codes and building rules to better recognise these forms of construction to assist in streamlining their approvals.
“[The] announcement is an important initiative to help unlock further housing supply. It additionally illustrates that there is no single solution to these issues, and instead reforms and targeted measures across all areas of policy are needed to address the nation’s housing needs.”
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Investing in high-quality cabinets is essential for a successful kitchen renovation. Wellconstructed cabinetry enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your kitchen. Look for durable materials and finishes that align with your style. Custom cabinetry may have a higher upfront cost, but it can increase your kitchen’s value and provide tailored storage solutions.
Gearing up to undertake a kitchen renovation in the new year but unsure where to allocate your budget? It can be overwhelming to decide where to save and where to splurge, especially with so many options available. Here, the expert team from Foreshore Kitchens at Coolum Beach breaks it down.
While cabinet hardware is important for functionality, it’s an area where you can save without compromising style. Instead of opting for high-end designer handles, consider more affordable options that still look great. You can often find stylish hardware at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to allocate more funds to crucial elements like cabinetry.
When it comes to appliances, you don’t always need to buy the latest models. While energy efficiency is essential, you can find quality appliances that offer great performance without breaking the bank. Look for sales or consider purchasing from previous model years, as these can provide substantial savings.
Good lighting can transform a kitchen. Invest in stylish and functional lighting fixtures that enhance the ambience and usability of your space. Consider a mix of task, ambient and accent lighting to create a well-lit environment. High-quality lighting can significantly elevate your kitchen’s design and make it feel more welcoming.
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Countertops play a significant role in both aesthetics and usability. Investing in high-quality materials like granite, quartz or marble can enhance your kitchen’s look and durability. These materials are more resistant to stains and scratches, providing long-term value. Remember, the countertop is a focal point in your kitchen, so choosing the right one is worth the splurge.
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When it comes to adding functionality and value to your home, a well-designed carport is a practical and stylish solution. Here’s what you need to know about building a carport, from design tips to council requirements.
A carport isn’t just a practical addition; it can also elevate the look of your property. To ensure
a cohesive and attractive fi nish. When selecting colours, consider options that match your home’s existing palette. Alternatively, a contrasting colour can make your carport a bold design feature. With a diverse range of shades available, you can achieve a look that complements your aesthetic while standing out for all the right reasons.
The Sunshine Coast’s coastal climate demands materials that are built to last. Your carport needs to be constructed from weather-resistant materials designed to withstand intense sun, heavy rain and salt exposure. Look for options that are not only durable but also low-maintenance, so your carport remains in top condition for years with minimal effort. Steel and aluminium provide strength and longevity. For the roof, consider Colorbond or polycarbonate sheeting, which offer protection from the your carport blends seamlessly with your home, work with designers who understand architectural styles. Whether your home features a coastal modern vibe or traditional Queenslander charm, customising the design ensures
elements while maintaining visual appeal. Talk to your builder about including insulation in your roof.
Carports are a versatile solution for off-street covered parking, shielding your vehicle from the harsh Queensland sun and stormy weather. But their advantages extend beyond practicality. Adding a carport can boost the value of your property and improve curb appeal, making it an attractive feature for future buyers.
Carports can also serve multiple purposes, such as providing extra covered space for outdoor entertaining or even acting as a shaded area for children to play.
With thoughtful design, a carport becomes an extension of your home’s living space.
Sunshine Coast Council says a development building work permit is required for
construction of new garages, carports and sheds, including garden sheds that exceed 10m² in area or 2.4 metres in height; alterations and additions to existing garages, carports and sheds, including adding roller-doors, or enclosing walls to a carport; converting existing garages, sheds or storage spaces into habitable areas like bedrooms or rumpus rooms. Before construction begins, it’s essential to obtain a building work permit from a private building certi fi er. This involves providing detailed plans of your carport, which may require assistance from a designer or architect. The Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014 outlines design requirements to ensure carpor ts preserve the streetscape and maintain adequate landscaping. If your design doesn’t meet these standards, your private certi fi er can lodge an application with Sunshine Coast Council to assess and approve alternative designs.
ully automatic and programmable, smart pools are often made to the specifications of the pool owner. They are made to be efficient, easy to use, manageable and for
remote operation. Thankfully, modern technology makes it possible to operate and oversee your pool with just a click of an icon on your smart device.
Plus, in a fraction of the time needed for traditional pools, smart pools enable pool owners to uphold, clean, and monitor their pools.
Here are some details to think about when deciding if a smart pool makes sense for your family, whether you already own a traditional swimming pool or you’re just starting your research to install your first pool.
Should you invest in a smart pool?
There are many different price packages available for smart pools, but the most fundamental pool operations are handled by simpler models. There are also sophisticated smart pool systems available that can control a whole myriad of different pool features.
Smart pool owners make their lives more enjoyable and convenient by upgrading their
pools. Also, installing features like ambient lighting will enhance your overall pool experience. Additionally, you have the option of concentrating only on core management systems, like pool pumps and automated cleaning. A smart pool typically has high up-front expenses. In the long run, though, you’ll end up saving both time and money. This makes a smart pool an intelligent purchase for any home.
You don’t have to install all of the features of a smart pool at once, that’s if you’re considering doing so for your home. Installing your pool’s core and most important systems is a good place to start the process. More features that you like can be added later.
You can upgrade your pool whenever you want, thanks to the flexibility that comes with bringing a smart pool home. The initial installation will be required for a few core systems. This will guarantee that your smart pool is functioning properly and relieves you of all future cleaning and
maintenance concerns.
Ensure your pool water remains sanitary all year round by buying a high-quality pool chlorinator online.
Although smart pools may appear complex at first glance, they are very easy to comprehend. Everything about smart pools is, first and foremost, purposefully made to make your life simpler. This means that nearly anything your smart pool does can be programmed, scheduled, or changed using a mobile device.
One central power source and control panel power every
piece of electronic equipment in your smart pool. There are many layers to your pool’s intelligent automation, ranging from the timer that regulates how long your pump runs to a gadget that checks your pool’s pH and modifies chemical compounds in your pool water accordingly.
Every other feature of your smart pool is controlled by the pool’s important management system. It is the most crucial piece of modern technology in your smart pool given that it enables one-button control of all other
We have a fantastic range of pool mosaics, pool coping pavers/tiles and pool surrounds . We have a range to suit any style pool and home.
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devices and equipment.
Today, pool technology companies have transformed this kind of system into websites, applications and downloaded programs that you can control remotely. Originally, the control board for the management software had to be located in the home of the pool owner.
Make sure you select a reputable pool expert who can deliver a top-notch central management system if you’re thinking about installing a smart pool.
Due to improper pool pump usage by the majority of pool owners, automatic pool pumps are one of the most innovative features of smart pools. If you’ve ever been in charge of maintaining a pool, you are aware of how expensive conventional pool pumps can be to operate in terms of energy. Because of this, it’s typical for people to use the pool pump less frequently and for shorter periods than is necessary.
There’s no need to worry about how long your pump lasts
because automated pool pumps use up to 85 per cent less energy than conventional pool pumps. You can easily leave your pool pump running whenever you want with a smart pool.
Do you struggle to maintain the ideal pH balance in your pool? An automated salt chlorinator might be something you want to consider purchasing if handling chemicals stresses you out. The pH level in your pool is always ideal and safe for your family thanks to smart pools with automated salt chlorinators that automatically verify the pH level of your pool water and add chemicals accordingly.
This means that you can take advantage of a cleaner, more bene fi cial pool despite having to invest additional time or mental effort into determining the precise chlorine balance in your pool water. Because automated salt chlorinators never exaggerate the amount of chlorine required
for a pool, you may also be able to save revenue on pool chemicals each month.
The advantages of a smart pool Your pool’s maintenance and management are handled by a smart pool.
The central organisation will take care of your pool for you after you install and program the features of your choice.
You are no longer required to carry out laborious tasks like pool maintenance and cleaning. The smart pool is made to effectively maintain your pool, leaving you free to enjoy swimming and lounging in it.
You never have to spend a cent more than necessary on anything, including energy bills, and cleaning supplies.
Spending time with your family or friends instead of cleaning your pool can be a good use of that time. You not only save time by not having to maintain your pool, but you also have more time to spend with loved ones, pursue your interests, or do whatever else you want.
• Creative all-inclusive 3D designs.
• Detailed and itemised all-inclusive quotes, without hidden extras.
• Quality equipment and finishes on every project.
• Professional project management and weekly client updates.
• Personal service from concept to completion with our unique 6 tier service guarantee.
• Celebrating over 45 years of designing and building pools on the Sunshine Coast.
• Build with the industry professionals and let us show you the future of pool building.
• Contact us today for a free onsite design consultation for your project.
When you design your pool with Poolfab, you will be able to see the finished pool before we even begin the build. Using our 3D Design Software, we will provide a customised design, fit with all of your requests. Your pool design will be created by one of our experienced landscape and pool designers or by the architect of your choice. Poolfab can turn your landscape dreams into a reality by designing the perfect outdoor sanctuary for you. Through the use of soft and hard landscapes, we will enrich your pool area and outdoor space. Dramatic lighting can enhance quality plant selections, and creative garden shapes can make your backyard unique and inspiring. At Poolfab, the structural integrity of our pools is our top priority. There are no shortcuts in building quality projects, and our team are required to perform to the highest of standards. We will not compromise on the quality of your project and pride ourselves on being the best Sunshine Coast pool builders.
Natural stone tiles add a timeless elegance to any poolside area but keeping them in pristine condition requires a bit of care. Here are some easy and effective tips to help you maintain the beauty of your stone tiles without damaging them.
Before you dive into deeper cleaning, remove dirt and debris with a soft-bristled broom or a leaf blower. Regular sweeping prevents dirt from being ground into the stone’s surface, which can cause scratches over time. Avoid stiff-bristled brushes as they might leave marks on softer stones like limestone or sandstone.
Natural stone is sensitive to harsh chemicals, so skip the bleach or acidic cleaners. Instead, mix warm water with a pH-neutral stone cleaner or a few drops of gentle dishwashing
liquid. Apply with a soft mop or sponge, and rinse thoroughly with clean water to avoid leaving behind any residue that could stain or discolour the stone.
Tip: Never use vinegar, lemon juice or any acidic products as they can damage the stone.
Spills or stains, especially from sunscreen, oils, or food, can quickly soak into porous natural stone if left untreated. Dab (don’t rub) the area with a damp cloth, then clean with your mild cleaning solution. For tougher stains, consider using a poultice designed for natural stone, which draws out the stain without damaging the surface.
Tip: Head to your local natural tile specialist or hardware store to talk to the experts about the best cleaning product for your stone.
To keep your stone tiles looking their best, apply a high-quality sealant once or twice a year. A sealant helps repel water, oil and dirt while reducing the risk of stains. Be sure to choose a product suitable for your specific stone type and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Natural stone is a popular choice for poolside entertaining areas, and for good reason.
• Timeless elegance: Each stone is unique, offering a variety of textures, colours and patterns that enhance any outdoor space with a touch of luxury.
• Slip resistance: Many natural stones, such as travertine and sandstone, provide a naturally textured surface that reduces the risk of slipping when wet.
• Durability: Built to withstand the elements, natural stone holds up beautifully against sun, rain and the occasional splash of chlorine.
Looking for a new Christmas look?
The Festive Gold pine cone from Adairs is beautiful whether it’s used as a standalone piece or grouped with other Christmas decor. Harvest, with its autumnal colours, is trendin g.
Holly and Ivy’s luxe copper burlap centrepiece will bring some festive joy to your dining or coffee table. Visit hollyandivy.com.au
Ginko Leaf blue
rich, bold hues