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BuildHome Issue #28.4 (Digital)

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27 Articles

editor’s letter

While making decisions about the look and layout of your home based on the latest fads may be short-sighted, keeping abreast of home design and building trends isn’t. A new home has to meet your current and projected needs, which means identifying design innovations that can help future-proof your home. Equally, it means educating yourself about any new materials, products and technologies that will make your home more energy efficient (which equates to lower heating and cooling bills), easier to maintain, and more comfortable to live in. Keeping an eye on the latest trends in floor plans is also wise as this will ensure you end up with an adapatable, multifunctional layout. We invited some leading builders to talk about what they feel are the most important trends to watch. An…

editor’s letter

Tastes change, designs evolve, materials improve, technology advances … in the home building arena, as in any other, evolution is ongoing. Some design and interior trends are ephemeral and better thought of as fads. If they are likely to look out of date in the relatively near future, think twice. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep abreast of the latest trends or innovations in floor plans, home technology, storage, materials, finishes, colours and a whole lot more. In fact, that’s precisely what Australian home buyers are doing in ever-increasing numbers. Thanks to popular home renovating and building shows on TV, the average Australian has never been more educated about all things design and building related. People are now aware of just how many different flooring, walling and cladding products there are;…

In Australia, coastal-inspired design has always been a favourite and according to residential developer Stockland, in 2022 coastal style was more popular than ever. In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Stockland launched Dreamcatcher, a tool that helps users navigate through various Australian home design trends and immerse themselves in 3D virtual home tours and guided videos to better conceptualise their personal design style. Lockdowns and travel restrictions caused Australians to give more thought to their home environment and it’s a trend that’s continued. “As such, we’ve seen a great uptake of our Dreamcatcher tool, which in turn has revealed a strong desire for a more coastal style of living. With its light and airy feel, bright open spaces, crisp white walls, earth tones, and warm timber floors, Coastal Hues…

TOP THREE TRENDS

Known to many from his appearances on The Block, the founder of Melbourne-based Elevate Building Group, Matt Menichelli has his finger on the pulse of Australian home design. Here he shares his top three trend predictions for this year. 1. Outdoor living: The need for yard space and an outdoor family recreational area is fuelling current building projects. Whether it’s integrating play equipment or even a pool, people are prioritising their backyards more than ever. An important part of this is ensuring seamless indoor-outdoor connections and maximising space for family fun as well as entertaining. 2. Working from home: With more Australians working completely or partly from home, introducing dedicated work spaces to keep their work life separate from their personal life has become a priority. A home office, or a study…

ROBOT REVOLUTION

Modular home building is now more widely embraced — and understood. Australians are now aware of the time and cost savings to be had, the reduced site disruption, the diverse range of designs available, the fact that modular homes can be compact or vast, single-storey or multi-level, and that the factory-build process offers enhanced quality control. Australian prefabricated modular building company, Modscape, is now taking things to a whole new level with the launch of a new division, Modbotics, a fully automated robotic production line for building elements. Modscape has been working with Swedish based manufacturing robotic company, Randek, since 2019 to develop an advanced suite of robotic lines purpose-made for the manufacture and completion of wall panels for use in the construction of homes as well as a range of other…

Australia used to rank as one of the countries with the largest homes, usually coming in right after the United States. The average size of a new home has been steadily falling over the past few years as smaller lots become more commonplace. This doesn’t mean, however, that the home you build has to be compromised in any way. Lots of limited size, which includes narrow blocks of land, can be found in and around many city areas as well as in suburban sub-divisions. The demand for more compact homes across a range of architectural styles is so high that leading volume home builders all now have designs specifically developed to maximise space on small lots. HOW SMALL IS SMALL? Everyone will have a slightly different idea about what constitutes small but a…

SMALLER THE BETTER

While some have no other recourse but to purchase a small site if they want to live in a specific location, others prefer it. “The demand for a smaller block is very high. Today we lead busy lives so we require different types of housing. We work longer hours and want to spend our time on more important things rather than doing the maintenance that comes with a larger block and home,” says Angela Anderson, Marketing Manager for Queensland-based McLachlan Homes. “Smaller block sizes don’t just give us a low maintenance lifestyle, smaller homes and gardens are less expensive to build. With so many new estates accommodating our needs with wonderful parks and outdoor spaces we no longer need the large backyard. This also helps our environmental impact as smaller homes…

UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY

When space isn’t on your side, you need to get creative with how you use it. A great way of doing this is to design rooms that have multiple functions — so rather than having separate spaces for each activity (living, dining, working, etc.), a smart approach is to combine these areas to maximise available space. For example, an open-plan living area can incorporate space for lounging and dining with each space seamlessly connecting to the kitchen. Open-plan living is ideal for narrow-block homes, as you can take advantage of the full size of an area rather than splitting it up into small rooms. As for working, if space is at a premium you may want to forgo that dedicated office and instead create a functional study nook that can utilise available…

Outside the box

Today there is a tendency to build larger homes on smaller blocks, so the amount of outdoor space available is greatly reduced compared to what was typical 10 years ago. Nonetheless, homeowners still want to use their outdoor areas for living, relaxing and entertaining. This desire to fit everything in has meant there often isn’t the space for a traditional-sized swimming pool, hence the need to think outside the box. “Smaller pools are coming into their own and becoming much more popular than the standard 4.5m x 9.5m pool of yesterday,” says John Storch, principal of A Total Concept, a company specialising in landscape architecture and swimming pool design. “A solution to fitting everything into a small outdoor space is installing a compact family pool and teaming it with an integrated,…

Outside the box

First impressions

Are you planning a beachside cottage filled with character and warmth? A contemporary urban abode with cutting-edge style? A house in the ‘burbs that’s ideal for a growing family? Or perhaps you envisage an eco-chic dwelling in a treechange location that pays homage to the natural environment? No matter what your home’s style, there are many components that make up its exterior appeal and overall presentation, and that includes walling, cladding, roofing, windows and doors. CLEVER CLADDING Cladding is the material that is fitted to the external wall system of a home. There are a few different wall systems in Australia, the most common being a structural single timber stud system frame. On the inside, internal cladding such as plasterboard is fitted, and on the outside, external cladding materials like brick, fibre-cement…

First impressions

MAKE THE SUSTAINABLE CHOICE

For those seeking a sustainable timber cladding solution, one option is Weathertex. Products are made using PEFC certified waste timber from State Forests or private hardwoods from controlled sources. No old-growth hardwood is used, protecting natural resources and maintaining the habitat of native wildlife. Weathertex has been through a rigorous evaluation from Global GreenTag Pty Ltd to determine its outstanding “green performance” and is proud to have the first manufactured product to receive GreenTag Platinum certification with a GreenRate R Level A for the brand’s Natural range. Additionally, Weathertex has received Gold certification for its primed flat cladding and wall panel sheets. Weathertex is also a healthy choice. Since the pandemic, homeowners and designers have been increasingly embracing biophilic design — the concept of bringing the health benefits of the outdoors inside,…

Make an entrance!

When contemplating a front garden design, it pays to get a fresh perspective so stroll up and down the street a few times, noting how the space looks as you approach it from either side, and from across the road. Seeing how others view the space from various angles will help you to achieve a balanced design that complements the look of your home and the overall streetscape. Here are a few more tips: 1. COMPLEMENT THE HOUSE It should go without saying that the design of a front yard should be in harmony with your home’s facade. This can be achieved in a variety of ways, from repeating colours and materials to using decorative features, such as pots, that are in keeping with your home’s architectural style. 2. ENSURE IT’S FUNCTIONAL Functionality and…

Make an entrance!

It is often rather difficult to know just where to start when you embark upon what is an exciting adventure — building a new home. There are so many options when it comes to design, floor plans and upgrades it can be hard to visualise what will work best for your family. Display homes help you see the options in real life and get a good first-hand feel for what you like and an understanding of what’s possible. The creation — and proliferation — of display villages has made viewing a diverse selection of homes incredibly easy. Not only that, most project home builders now allow for a broad range of customisation, so once you have chosen the design you really like, you can select the upgrades and inclusions that will…

A life of luxury

The Grandworth Dynasty 43 is Allcastle Homes’ finest example of luxury living on a grand scale. Designed to impress even the largest family, this remarkable home offers one breathtaking feature after another. In fact, it is so impressive that in the MBA NSW 2022 Excellence in Housing and Pool Awards, the home was judged the winner of the Display Homes $600,001–$700,000 category. “The Grandworth Dynasty 43 is masterfully crafted to cater for every family’s unique lifestyle and it is so packed with features it’s a case of where to start,” says Steven Parissis, Sales Manager, Allcastle Homes. “The vast family/meals area overlooking a large alfresco is an entertainer’s delight, while the beautifully appointed kitchen and separate butler’s pantry provides the perfect setup for the fussiest cook.” This is a home that suits…

A life of luxury

In the thriving rural town of Warragul, nestled in the heart of Victoria’s Gippsland region, sits a multi-award-winning display home — the Acura 38. This stunning design from Virtue Homes not only delivers the latest in modern family living, it shows the high calibre of work being produced by regional builders. “This is a large four-bedroom family home with an open living design. As well suited to families with small children as it is for those with teenagers, it incorporates a raft of multifunctional spaces, such as the separate rumpus. This is connected to the entry hall which gives parents easy access to supervise young children, or provides a sense of separation for older children seeking a private living zone,” says Nerida Hamilton, General Manager, Virtue Homes. Stylish and sophisticated, the display…

The one-storey Qualia has been well-received by Queensland families and is quickly becoming one of Metricon Homes’ most popular designs nationally. With three floor plans to choose from, the Qualia delivers flexible, harmonious family living. At the heart of the home is the spacious open-plan kitchen, dining and family zone, while the home theatre and leisure rooms provide additional space for the family to enjoy. The multi-award-winning Qualia 39 display home, perfectly positioned in Pelican Waters on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, exemplifies what makes this design so special. “This is a home to tick all the boxes,” says Adrian Popple, Design Director, Metricon Homes. “The Qualia’s spacious floor plan has four bedrooms, including a lavish rear-located master suite boasting a walk-in robe and designer ensuite. The master suite also features a private courtyard,…

Boasting a classical yet modern facade and an interior designed for luxurious yet casual living, this exquisite new display home from Buildcraft Constructions perfectly showcases the custom builder’s design and construction expertise and eye for detail. Located in Bella Vista, a bourgeoning community north-west of Sydney, the display home was designed with both comfortable family living and easy entertaining in mind. “The front portion of the house is designed for entertaining guests and features a luxurious area for socialising or relaxing. The front foyer also makes a wonderful first impression. As visitors step over the threshold, their eyes are drawn to the large, light-filled entry void and the statement wrought-iron staircase,” says John Ugarkovic, Director, Buildcraft Constructions. “The family area of the house features a large kitchen with an enormous island bench…

Built with easy entertaining in mind, the Elwood 267 display home captures the very essence of sophisticated, modern living. Boasting a generous floor plan, an effortless flow between spaces and the clean-lined Ultra Urban facade, the home is simply stunning, inside and out. “The front of the home is a modern, stylish exterior and deceptively minimalist,” says Joel B Freeman of Stroud Homes Port Macquarie. “Inside, the home is packed with urban-living features, from powder-room nooks through to high-end bathrooms and resort-standard entertaining areas. The home is further enhanced by well-placed windows and skylights that create a sense of space and bring in an abundance of light. “The entryway welcomes you through to the kitchen which flows onto a showstopping living area. It also connects to an adjoining alfresco dining space, creating…

Custom-built homes

For future homeowners who know exactly what they want, or have an especially challenging building site, there is no substitute for a bespoke, custom-built abode. Finding a reputable custom builder is the first, and perhaps most important, step on the journey towards creating the home of your dreams — one designed with your lifestyle needs, sense of style and location in mind. You might engage an architect or building designer and then source a builder or look for a custom builder with a in-house design service. A custom builder will guide you through every stage, from design to construction, and will work towards turning your dreams into reality. To streamline the process, a custom builder can manage the whole project to ensure everything stays on track and the end result…

Custom-built homes

Change for the better

For Debbie and Grahame, a couple with grown children who no longer live at home, turning this vacant piece of land into a home that spoke of contemporary living and cool, collected beachside calm, was exactly what they needed for the next stage in their lives. The couple wanted to downsize, moving from their inner-Sydney pad to a beachside spot on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast where they could embrace a seachange and find comfort in an easy, breezy lifestyle. The home includes three bedrooms — a master suite and two visitor bedrooms — two and a half bathrooms, a home office, double garage, open-plan kitchen/dining/living, an alfresco space and a separate media room. There is also a medium-sized pool that wraps around the living area. Designed by Aboda Design Group and built by Fauna…

Change for the better

The Goldilocks effect underpins the success of Boulevard House in Melbourne’s Ivanhoe East in that the scale, materiality and design details sit just right on the sloping site and provide just enough for the family of four. “It was important the home achieve a fine balance between the very large houses in the area, and the idea of more humble, liveable and engaging spaces,” says Shae Parker McCashen, Director, Green Sheep Collective. “This building could not be big for big’s sake. Every space had to work hard within its purpose, and within its context.” Thick, rammed earth walls ground the house and reveal the framework’s numerous lines and plugs. Boasting unique natural beauty and texture, the appearance of the 400mm walls changes as the sun makes its daily pilgrimage from east to…

Living the dream

Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac in a bustling inner-Brisbane suburb, this beautiful new home is the culmination of a successful knockdown-rebuild project, expertly carried out by McLachlan Homes. The journey began with the demolition of a rundown Queenslander and a project team comprising building design firm Big House, Little House, interior designers Porch Light Interiors, and McLachlan Homes who executed the build and coordinated all the moving pieces to give the clients their forever home. From the moment you spy the new home from the street, the high level of detail captures the eye. “The crisp colour palette of Resene’s Double White Pointer exterior paint contrasted with the Ironstone Colorbond roofing allows the Hamptons-inspired design’s intricate facade details to really shine. These special elements include the James Hardie Linea cladding, feature…

Living the dream

Kit & modular homes

Kit, modular and prefabricated homes, available in myriad styles, offer a raft of practical solutions to a diverse range of common building challenges. Kit and modular homes are also a sensible option for those faced with a restricted timeframe for building. With a modular home, the bulk of the construction process takes place off-site in a factory setting, after which the modules are delivered straight to your land for connection. With a kit home, components are also delivered to your site and various elements, such as trusses, are prefabricated. Modular and kit homes can be a cheaper alternative to building a home in the traditional manner. They both provide a high level of quality control, offer a more sustainable way of building and homes are available in an array of…

Kit & modular homes

Classic country

With a stunning location in NSW’s Central Tablelands, the empty-nester owners wanted a home that would set the scene for the next chapter in their lives. “The style they wanted was ‘classic country’ and it was important that the home be fully self-sufficient and off-the-grid without sacrificing comfort and luxury,” says Michael Christie, Housing Consultant, PAAL Kit Homes. “Just as importantly, the home needed to be large enough to accommodate visiting adult children and members of their extended family; also, the owners wanted it oriented to take advantage of the spectacular views of Mount York and the surrounding Hartley Valley. “We worked on plans with the clients for about two months before they settled on a design that worked with the steep site’s contours, maximised the view, and appealed to their sense…

Classic country

Products & services

Whether building a new home or renovating an existing one, it is important to remember that sourcing the right products and service providers is essential if you want a quality abode that will last you through the years. The foundations upon which your home is built, the cladding you install, and the home technology you choose, be it a home cinema or app-controlled air-conditioning — these are all highly critical decisions if you want a home that is comfortable to live in. You need to undertake thorough research, shop around and use only reputable suppliers.…

Products & services

Hey, good looking!

Whether you’re planning to build or renovate, Weathertex cladding systems will make a huge difference to the look of your home — and your lifestyle. Super versatile and offering endless possibilities, Weathertex products are not only used externally for walls, but also internally for feature walls, ceilings… even garage doors. Weathertex products are the ideal cladding to use because they are lightweight, strong and easy to install. Australia’s climate is not a gentle one. This Australian-made and owned cladding will last the distance, offering up to 25 years warranty not to rot, split or crack. High-performing and visually stunning, Weathertex cladding ticks all the boxes. If you’re looking for a robust sustainable cladding solution indoors or out, it’s seriously hard to beat. More than ever before, bringing nature into our designs and…

Hey, good looking!

This four-bedroom home in Menangle, a rural village in the Macarthur region of NSW, was built to take maximum avantage of its idyllic country setting. Designed by the owner Lee, an estimator for a timber and truss company, the home offers everything he and his partner could hope for. There is a large home theatre, an expansive master suite with its own verandah oriented to capture hillside views, and an open-plan kitchen adjoining light-filled dining and living spaces. Lee bought the 5.5 acre property, which was an empty battle-axe block, in 2016, with the intention of building a large custom family home. When Lee and his partner looked at the land for the first time, they were on a quest to find the ideal plot for their third and last build…

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