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All an illusion “We hung curtains in the living space on rods higher than the door frame to give the illusion of a taller, MELBOURNE more open space. It also makes AUSTRALIA the doors feel more substantial,” says homeowner Sarah. A

SIX-WEEK RENO HINDSIGHT INTERIOR DESIGNER SARAH REID MAY CREATE DREAM HOMES FOR A LIVING BUT THERE WAS STILL PLENTY TO LEARN WHEN RENOVATING HER OWN FAMILY HOME

THE DINING AREA

or interior designer Sarah Reid F and her husband Nick, the first non-negotiable for their dream family home was the location. The couple was set on living close to the city where the amenities were nearby and they didn’t have to rely on a car – even if that meant a smaller block size. After seeing a dozen houses, they found “the one” in Malvern: A three bedroom, two bathroom brick and weatherboard house with little natural light, yet loads of potential. “This was the first house we looked at where we both walked in and could absolutely imagine living in the spaces,” Sarah says. “It had a great floor plan, no structural changes were required and we knew we could do some immediate work to improve it, as well as the opportunity to do something bigger picture with it later.” Armed with a builder Sarah had worked with professionally, and a vision to brighten and define the spaces, the couple undertook a six-week renovation. The result? A clean and sophisticated family home with a dash of the unexpected. Here’s how they did it. A

@reallivingmag real living 120 121 NOTED

THE KITCHEN THE MASTER BEDROOM

Well hung Inner sanctuary “Our kitchen functions as a “This was the biggest undertaking dining and living area so that because we removed a fireplace was a space where I saw quite that took up too much room, and a lot of potential. The doors we also gutted the robe/ensuite originally swung inwards so we area,” Sarah says. The storage rehung them to swing outward, was custom-designed by Sarah which opened up the space and made by Ashwood Design. and made it more functional.”

N O N S O S S S E E L L 1 2 WHO LIVES HERE? THERE’S MORE THAN ONE WAY THINK ABOUT YOUR OUTDOOR SARAH REID, AN INTERIOR TO ADD EXTRA LIGHT PLANTING EARLY ON DESIGNER, HER HUSBAND NICK, Because their property was on a tight It may be the least of your worries when A MEDIA STRATEGIST, AND site, Sarah and Nick couldn’t rely on you’re knee-deep in plaster, but as Sarah THEIR TWO DAUGHTERS OLIVIA, adding more windows to get some says, your outdoor plant and tree choices THREE, AND MADELEINE, ONE. much-needed light. “We changed the will often take the longest to mature and SR-AND-O.COM.AU | @ S _ R _ A N D _ O wall colour from a creamy off-white to establish, so think about the overall look Dulux Natural White, which has a tiny you want to achieve and if you want to bit of yellow in it to add warmth,” Sarah create shade with any trees or shrubs. says.“We’re relying on the lighting “Think this through from the early stages reflecting off the walls to brighten up to at least try to address bigger planting the space.” Adding to this, they laid areas. For us, it was getting the hedging lighter coloured timber floorboards, and Ficus (fig trees) planted up so they which also reflect light, making had a good few seasons to develop as the room feel more spacious. we completed the interiors,” she says. A

@reallivingmag real living 122 123 NOTED

THE KITCHEN THE BATHROOM THE MASTER BEDROOM

Made with love Sarah designed the dining table and had it made by Ashwood. “This is a special piece as it was the first piece I designed for our family. It’s the centre of our home,” she says.

N O N N O N O N S O S S O S S S S S S S E E E E E L L 3 L 4 L 5 L 6 7 KEEP YOUR TRADIES ON SIDE IDENTIFY AND PRIORITISE IF YOU CAN’T FIND WHAT YOU DEFINE AREAS OF YOUR HOME DON’T RULE OUT MATERIALS Grand entrance The neon light is a custom – AND ON HAND FOR LATER WHERE TO SPEND YOUR MONEY WANT, CONSIDER CUSTOMISING WITH DIFFERENT FLOORING UNTIL YOU GET QUOTES design made by Coles Neon We all know the importance of good Though you may have grand plans to “Finding the perfect dining table was Though Pinterest may be filled with lime- “I think people don’t realise that marble Shop that translates to “my trades during the renovation process, change everything in sight, without a challenge. I wanted something that house is your house”. “We washed floorboards and rattan, carpet can be really competitively priced. There wanted something quirky on but they are just as important post-reno a never-ending budget it probably won’t could work in the kitchen, seat both can be just as effective. “When we can be huge disparity though so shop entry to add a sense of fun,” too. “There were many extras that we be possible. “We worked with the builder larger and smaller groups and also feel walked in originally there were a lot of around. Go out to the warehouses and Sarah says of the entryway. Restful retreat needed help with once the renovation to decide what was important within our like a solid addition to the space. So clean sight lines and it made the house have a look,” Sarah advises. If you’re In the master bedroom, the was completed; hanging feature lights, budget,” Sarah says. “Initially, we looked I utilised the offcut marble from the feel almost too combined – there was planning more than one bathroom, buy in bed is by Camerich from reshuffling shelving, installing a complex at removing the fireplaces in the girls’ bathroom to make a tray for the top of no definition between the spaces,” Sarah bulk. “We couldn’t do the family bathroom Meizai, the Tray Table by Hay is from Cult Design and Arc library system! We have a fantastic rooms but it was that or our dining table! the table and designed a table that fitted says. “So we had the bedroom carpeted with the rest of the house so we bought wall lamp from Allied Maker. A electrician and carpenter on hand who I’m glad we left them in there because our proportions. The marble tray works to break it up a bit and to add softness enough materials so that it all matched have both continued to be a tremendous it’s provided a bit of character to each as part of the kitchen (for chopping, to the space. I like that when you walk and finished the family bathroom later. It help,” Sarah says. So always be space, a nod to the original home, and prepping and serving) or it can be lifted into the bedroom it’s got a different feel was good because we could still function respectful in conversations and try to also great opportunities for displaying and moved to accommodate 10 to 12 to the main living areas – it’s a warm in the rest of the house while the other pay everyone on time. items and storing books.” people at the table.” and cosy sanctuary.” bathroom was being done.” R

@reallivingmag real living 124 125 NOTED

Simple lines THE MASTER BEDROOM Land of Nod Sarah’s bathroom features an Baby Maddie’s room is light and Alape freestanding basin from bright. The wall shelving is from Reece and tapware and Interior Motives, the Moulin Roty fixtures from Astra Walker. plane is from AlexandAlexa and “Follow Me” portable lamp by Marset from Designstuff.

Side show A side table in the master bedroom displays a Perimeter tray by Ladies & Gentlemen Studio, a Vide Poche dish by Henry Wilson and a Hexagonal Desk-top mirror by Kenny Yong-soo Son from Studiokyss.

WORK IN PROGRESS SARAH AND NICK’S TIMELINE

AUGUST JANUARY 2015: FEBRUARY 2015: MARCH 2015: APRIL 2015: MAY 2016: JUNE 2015: JULY 2016: 2014: Settled and began (approx. 6 weeks Started working Started permit Began Front fence Bathroom YEARS Purchased interior work like later) Moved in. with landscaper. drawings and drawings and complete. complete. the removing fireplace, application pricing for 1–2 property building new robes process for main family and storage joinery, new front bathroom. gutting and re-doing fence. the master ensuite (was previously ensuite and robe A lot of our furniture combined) and is more classic but then putting in new there are elements of finishes throughout. quirk and fun.

real living 127 Renovation rescue Your mission: to make short work of your renovations so you can get in there sooner and start enjoying your efforts. Turn the page for 101 expert tips that’ll hit the nail on the proverbial head. A simone haag styling mark roper | | roper mark photography photography

ROOMSTHE RENOVATION SPECIAL real living 93 ROOMS

1 “When shopping for a property to renovate, look for large spaces, lots of natural light and RENO a back garden that faces north. Always have a building inspection done to confirm that the existing house is in good condition, and check that access for tradespeople is not too difficult.” Madeleine Blanchfield, architect TIPS | @madeleineblanchfieldarchitects

“Before starting a renovation, always check that the plumbing and electricals are up to scratch, and if there are any structural remedial works that need to be done, such as rectifying water damage or rising damp. They’re not the most exciting things to invest in, but it will help avoid costly repairs down the track.” 2 Nina Maya, interior designer | @ninamayainteriors nina maya styling felix forest | felix| forest

FROM CHOOSING TRADIES TO SETTING A BUDGET AND NAILING YOUR FLOORPLAN, OUR TIPS FROM THOSE IN THE KNOW WILL photography SET YOU ON THE PATH TO RENO SUCCESS

SO YOU’VE DECIDED TO RENOVATE, and your first step will be… *cue crickets chirping*. Daunting as it may seem, with the karlie verkerk | verkerk karlie right advice and a team of professionals who know what they’re doing, your vision can become a reality. We hit up our favourite stylists, designers and architects for their renovation dos and

don’ts, so you can hit the ground running. by compiled

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“TO GET PLANS APPROVED QUICKLY BY COUNCIL, NORTH = MAXIMUM LIGHT MAKE SURE YOU KNOW THE RULES AND RATIONALE 4 FOR THEIR EXISTENCE. DESIGN TO MEET THAT “No amount of clever renovating can change the way your property is 3 orientated. Look for living areas that face north for maximum natural light RATIONALE AND, IF NECESSARY, WORK THE RULES exposure, and find out the direction of prevailing winds so you can maximise IN FAVOUR OF THE RIGHT DESIGN.” ANITA PANOV AND airflow without the need for additional ventilation.” Cushla McFadden, ANDREW SCOTT, PANOVSCOTT ARCHITECTS | @panovscott interior architect, TomMarkHenry | @tommarkhenry_

“Before renovating, research any planning or site restrictions that may affect the design and scale of your project. This can 5 be done via your local council website.” Megan Burns and “Once your site is free Christopher Glanville, CM Studio Architects | @cmstudio of contamination like STEP ONE: asbestos, doing the WRITE A demolition yourself and BRIEF! 10“Always write a brief on-selling the materials 11 can shave thousands off pre-reno – for yourself and any tradesmen – that your total bill.” Naomi details what you’re trying to Findlay, Beaumont achieve and why, what you Tiles ambassador | want to spend, what goes @naomifindlaydart in, what needs to come out, natasha levak (right) who uses the spaces and what they use them for, timeframes and anything 6 else you may need to refer “When renovating interior design interior 12 “WHEN RENOVATING FOR RESALE, LOOK FOR A FLOORPLAN THAT’S A back to whenever you have for profit, choose a LITTLE OUTDATED OR NOT VERY FUNCTIONAL, SUCH AS A KITCHEN AND to make a decision.” property that gives DINING ROOM THAT ARE SEPARATE. MAKING IT OPEN PLAN IS SOMETHING Darren Palmer, Carpet you the ability to YOU CAN DO – FOR EXAMPLE, BY KNOCKING THROUGH A WALL – TO Court ambassador increase the value EASILY UPDATE THE HOME WITHOUT MAKING TOO MANY STRUCTURAL @darrenpalmerofficial enough to cover all CHANGES.” NATASHA LEVAK, INTERIOR DESIGNER | @natashalevak | @carpetcourtau project costs and make a profit.” Cherie alexandra gordon (left) | Barber, Renovating for Profit | styling @renoforprofit

7 “IT’S IDEAL9 IF YOU HAVE A “If this is a home you CLEAR VISION OF YOUR plan on selling in the RENOVATION FROM THE future, look at recent VERY BEGINNING. CLARITY sales and comparable WILL NOT ONLY ENSURE renovations in the area EFFICIENCY IN THE DESIGN to ensure you’re not overcapitalising.” PROCESS, IT WILL Kyal and Kara, HOPEFULLY SAVE YOU “Consult your neighbours as soon as you know what you want to former The Block FROM COSTLY EXPENSES

contestants and | (right) homer maree (left); studio cm of courtesy smart, anson

do in your renovation. Houses are our most valuable assets and IF LAST-MINUTE CHANGES no-one likes being kept in the dark on something that impacts Beaumont Tiles ARE MADE ONCE THE them directly. Plus, you want to live in a positive environment ambassadors BUILD HAS STARTED.” once the renovation is underway.” Madeleine Blanchfield @kyalandkara |

NINA MAYA @beaumont.tiles photography @reallivingmag 8 real living 96 97 ROOMS

FIND TRADIES THAT YOU LIKE - “MEET WITH A FEW DIFFERENT DESIGNERS AND BUILDERS TO MAKE SURE YOU’LL BE SPENDING THEY HAVE THE RIGHT LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE AND SKILL SET TO GET THE A LOT OF TIME TOGETHER! JOB DONE, BUT ULTIMATELY YOU SHOULD GO WITH WHO YOU FEEL YOU CAN GET ALONG WITH PERSONALLY – IT WILL MAKE THE EXPERIENCE 14 15 MUCH MORE ENJOYABLE!” CUSHLA McFADDEN “I feel the main “Having detailed component people don’t plans and timelines 16 allow for when setting in place before you 17 a renovating budget is begin is crucial for “Guarantee a return furniture. Treat the staying within on your investment by furniture as part of the budget. Enlist the setting strict budgets. project, not an help of a designer or For example, you afterthought, and project manager should spend no more budget accordingly.” and give it the best than two per cent of Simone Haag, interior possible chance of your home’s value on designer | @simonehaag reducing hidden the kitchen, 1.5 per costs.” Christina cent on the facade and Symes and Jessica $10,000 to $15,000 Stewart, interior on your bathrooms.” designers, We Are Cherie Barber 13 Triibe | @wearetriibe “It’s important to do your research, look at all your options and check estimated costs before going to council and engaging a builder. This way, if your budget needs to be increased, you can make 21 rational, informed decisions, and “Consider timings. The also have the opportunity to pull design and planning 22 back.” Madeleine Blanchfield process for a new 18“When it comes to build can take a few setting a budget, don’t months. Your interior forget to add up the designer or architect small things. Most needs to come up with people focus on hero the design, get it materials, such as “Avoid trying to copy costed by several vanities and tiles, as something you’ve seen, as builders and lodge the well as trade costs, but it may not translate. Every simone haag (left); shareen joel (right) paperwork with they often overlook house is different, so go with council for approval. things like rubbish the style and character of styling Smaller renos that removal, tip fees and your house for a far better don’t require a DA may the cost of ancillary outcome.” only take a month or Shareen Joel, equipment like glue.” interior designer and two.” Nina Maya Naomi Findlay architect | @shareenjoel

“Be honest about who you’re renovating for and why “If you’re renovating an older property, be prepared for you’re renovating. Make lists of the things you love and 19 unknowns (such as outdated wiring or asbestos) that

mark roper (left); eve wilson (right) | | (right) wilson (left);eve roper mark hate about homes, from skirting board widths to power may have an impact on your budget. There’s only so

points. Bear in mind that a renovation for sale may be much an architect or builder can predict before getting 20 very different to how you’d renovate your own home.” into the guts of the project, so try to have a contingency Shelley Craft, The Block host and Carpet fund of up to 25 per cent set aside.” Megan Burns

photography Court ambassador | @shelleycraftofficial and Christopher Glanville

@reallivingmag real living 98 99 ROOMS

KITCHEN LIVING BATHROOM “CHECK THE RELEVANT COUNCIL DCP (DEVELOPMENT 1 2 3 CONTROL PLANS) AND LEP (LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLANS) 24 “When tackling a whole house overhaul, we usually start TO ENSURE YOUR HEIGHT LIMITS AND FLOOR-SPACE RATIOS with the kitchen, living areas and bathrooms, as these are ARE PERMISSABLE. ALSO CHECK WHETHER NEIGHBOURS the big ticket items that cost the most and will be used the 23 HAVE PLANS LODGED OR APPROVED THAT MAY AFFECT most often. It’s vital to make sure these key areas have fully YOUR PROPERTY.” MADELEINE BLANCHFIELD resolved and functional designs and layouts.” Nina Maya 32 “It may sound old-fashioned, but asking friends and family to recommend tradespeople 25 that they’ve used on their 30 “Allow plenty of time for “Select all the fixtures, homes is a great way to find 33“FOR KITCHENS AND the planning process. finishes and materials the right team.” Nina Maya before getting quotes. Design, approvals, BATHROOMS, ALLOW Without these details, documentation and AT LEAST SIX WEEKS “Before starting a renovation,31 identify the key tendering to builders it’s impossible for FOR DESIGN AND areas you’d like to renovate and what your builders to accurately can easily take a year. non-negotiables are. List your renovation wishes SPECIFICATION, FOUR price your renovation, Then, depending on the in order of priority and start talking to designers and it’ll save you from size of the renovation, TO SIX WEEKS FOR and builders to get as much information as you variation fees down it can take six to 12 ORDERING AND can on costings and timelines, so you can enter the line.” Georgia months to do the work.” SCHEDULING TRADES, your renovation process prepared.” Ezra, interior Madeleine Blanchfield Christina Symes and Jessica Stewart AND ONCE ON SITE, designer | @georgia_ezra YOU COULD EXPECT APPROXIMATELY FOUR WEEKS UNTIL COMPLETION.” 26 CUSHLA McFADDEN “MAKE LANDSCAPING 29 A PART OF YOUR PLAN “When it comes to buying materials, the FROM THE GET-GO, majority of stores don’t AND AIM TO GET keep large quantities STARTED EARLY SO IT on site and will need to HAS TIME TO SETTLE order them in for you. WHILE YOU’RE in bed and we are triibe (left); tommarkhenry (right) So leave plenty of time CONCENTRATING for this.” Kerrie-Ann ON THE INTERIORS.” styling Jones, Real Living CHERIE BARBER style editor | @reallivingmag

ORDER YOUR MATERIALS AND FIXTURES WELL IN ADVANCE TO ALLOW FOR DELAYS

“Lead times for custom-made pieces, such 28“THE BIGGEST ADVANTAGE OF ENGAGING AN INTERIOR as windows, doors and wardrobes, are

dependent on the time of year and the location terence chin photography (left); damian bennett (right) | ARCHITECT OR DESIGNER IS THAT YOU WON’T MAKE of the job. However, as a guide, allow three MISTAKES. YOU ONLY HAVE TO DO THINGS ONCE AND weeks for standard products and up to five THEY’LL BE DONE PROPERLY.” SHAREEN JOEL weeks for more complex orders.” Christine

Evans, Stegbar | @stegbar_au 27 photography @reallivingmag real living 100 101 ROOMS

SAVE ON “ALWAYS ENSURE YOUR TRADIES AND BUILDERS HAVEN’T TAKEN LABOUR COSTS ON TOO MANY OTHER PROJECTS. QUESTIONING THIS FROM THE WHERE YOU “Before deciding on who to engage for your renovation, go and see a project that the builder or architect CAN OUTSET MEANS THEY’LL BE MORE COMMITTED TO YOUR BUILD you’re considering has done. It’s important the project is the same type, size and scale as yours. An alterations AND ACTUALLY STAY ON THE JOB.” JADE NOTTAGE 34 and additions builder may not be the right person to build a brand new house.” Madeleine Blanchfield 36 “If you decide to go 37 down the flat-pack “Treat your tradies well because when they’re kitchen route, you happy and paid properly, they respect you and can assemble them give you good results. Beers and banana bread 38 “I recommend yourself, which will always go down a treat, too.” Georgia Ezra consulting an architect save your professional 43 for any significant installer some time, renovation. They can and lower the costs interpret your brief on their end.” and guide the budget, Jeneile Kirk, council approval and Kaboodle Kitchen | builder appointment @kaboodlekitchen processes. Spend time finding the right person, brief them well and then trust them to do a good

georgia ezra (right) job.” Madeleine 42 Blanchfield “If you have a myriad of ideas and styles that you like, or no

interior design interior ideas at all, it really is worth investing money 39 in getting a designer “There are some involved. They can non-negotiables when refine ideas and make it comes to DIY work them cohesive, or and they include showcase a world electrical, plumbing of ideas you didn’t and structural building think possible.” works. Tiling in wet Jade Nottage, areas that require falls interior architect, in drains is another job TomMarkHenry best left to the professionals, as problems with incorrect drainage can lead to issues down the track.” “FINDING GOOD, RELIABLE TRADESPEOPLE IS HARDER Kyal and Kara THAN IT SOUNDS, SO WHEN YOU DO FIND SOMEONE GOOD, MAKE SURE YOU HANG ONTO THEM! ACKNOWLEDGE A JOB WELL DONE, ALWAYS PAY THEM PROMPTLY AND NEVER LET TENSE SITUATIONS GET THE BETTER OF YOU. 41 BE FIRM BUT FAIR IN ALL DEALINGS.” CHERIE BARBER “OUTSOURCE 90 PER CENT OF THE WORK “To get the best outcome from your renovation, it’s critical

prue ruscoe, courtesy of madeleine blanchfield architects (left); amelia stanwix (right) | | (right) stanwix (left); amelia architects blanchfield madeleine of courtesy ruscoe, prue to have a good relationship with your architect, interior

5 40 designer or builder. Aim to be clear, honest and consistent 3 TO LICENSED TRADES AND ONLY DO 10 with your communication at all times.” Megan Burns PER CENT YOURSELF. IT SAVES TIME AND and Christopher Glanville

photography YOU’LL GET A BETTER RESULT.” CHERIE BARBER

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“WHEN IT COMES TO TRADES, ALWAYS GET THREE SEPARATE “No matter the size of the project, make sure QUOTES AND COMPARE ‘APPLES WITH APPLES’. IF THERE IS you always check all your tradesmen’s licenses 44 SOMETHING IN ONE QUOTE THAT’S NOT IN THE OTHERS, MAKE and qualifications – doing a job twice because of faulty workmanship is heartbreaking and SURE YOU ASK WHY THAT’S THE CASE.” GEORGIA EZRA 45 expensive, so do your homework before you lock anyone in.” Shelley Craft

“I’m a big advocate for investing in tech and TVs that are REFERENCE a pleasure to look at when not in use. Some companies can CHECKS ARE WORTH 50 convert your TV into a decorative mirror which can be wall- THEIR WEIGHT mounted.” Greg Natale, interior designer | @gregnatale IN GOLD. DON’T 52 “If you’re tiling your SKIP THIS 51 “Make sure every item home, always go for STEP! larger, not small tiles you pick is true to your (30cm x 60cm are my original design vision, preferred size). They so all your fixtures and make your property finishes complement appear larger than it each other. For example, 46 don’t buy copper lighting really is. And always “Determine how much colour-match your for your bathroom if of the decision-making floor tile grout to your you’ve gone with chrome you’re wanting to do, floor tiles as close as tapware.” Nina Maya compared to the possible.” Cherie builder making those Barber decisions for you. Because there will be 53 a lot of on-the-spot “When designing your decisions to be made! bathroom floorplan, Are you planning on consider the sightline being on site or greg natale (left) from the door – it’s contactable every day? never nice to look If you’re clear with your directly at the loo. tradies from the get-go, Ideally, have your vanity 49 this will help maintain design interior or a feature bath as the “STREAMLINE a good relationship and first thing you see.” FLOORING open communication.” Kerrie-Ann Jones AND EVEN Shelley Craft OUT FLOOR LEVELS TO HELP ACHIEVE A FEELING OF OPENNESS AND EASY TRANSITION “CHOOSING COLOUR PALETTES, MATERIALS OR “I LOVE USING PATTERNED47 TILES AND FROM ROOM PAINT FINISHES THAT REPEAT THROUGHOUT THE | (right) cairns sharyn (left); natale greg of courtesy smart, anson DECORATIVE MOSAICS IN KITCHENS. THEY HOME HELPS CREATE A COHESIVE FEEL. ALSO, TO ROOM.” 48 CONSISTENT LIGHTING (INCLUDING BULB TYPE OFFER AN ATTRACTIVE ALTERNATIVE THAT IS NATASHA LEVAK OR COLOUR) CAN BE JUST AS IMPORTANT.” HARDWEARING AND FUNCTIONAL, AND THERE’S

CHRISTINA SYMES AND JESSICA STEWART NO LIMIT TO THE OPTIONS.” GREG NATALE photography

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“BEFORE LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION, FIRST DECIDE ON A STYLE YOU 54 LIKE THAT ALSO RESPECTS THE ARCHITECTURE YOU’RE DEALING “Consider how you’ll live in each room. 56 “If you’re renovating to Functionality is paramount in creating the WITH. BE MINDFUL OF CURRENT TRENDS, BUT LOOK PRIMARILY TO sell, aim to appeal to foundation of a space. As the saying goes, more people. Whites, YOUR HOME’S ARCHITECTURE FOR INSPIRATION.” NATASHA LEVAK ‘form follows function’, and what determines greys and neutrals good design is combining these two so you allow potential buyers create spaces that last the test of time.” to visualise how their 57 Christina Symes and Jessica Stewart furniture will look, 5 while a colourful front 8 “People so often steer door creates a colour away from brass, but memory and gives “If you have a small I love it. When treated buyers an easy budget, get creative or coated, it can be reference for your and make a feature of a fantastic material home, such as ‘the your favoured material that visually brings weatherboard with by pairing it with a warmth to a kitchen.” the blue door’.” more cost effective- Greg Natale “If you’re55 considering an Andrea Lucena-Orr, option, like choosing open-plan layout, ensure it’s Dulux | @duluxaus a feature tile for your the right solution for the shower recess and a house. Don’t just opt for it TRY THIS standard tile for the 59 because you think you have rest of the room.” Dulux “Look at utilising the full to. There is joy to be had in Water Raceway Georgia Ezra height of your ceiling for cosiness.” Simone Haag extra above-counter Dulux cupboard space. Also, Lexicon having multiple, narrow drawers instead of Dulux deep drawers can Vivid White 64 maximise your storage.” Christina Symes and Jessica Stewart

simone haag (left); georgia ezra (right) ezra (left);georgia haag simone 63 “The best bathroom lighting comes from 60 front on and should be “Skylights are a cost- equal in intensity above, effective way to bring more interior styling interior below and from the light into dark hallways or sides. Make sure the stairwells. They also create overhead light is engaging and interesting located above the tap spaces.” Megan Burns or waste of the basin.” and Christopher Darren Palmer Glanville

“The right lighting is key, and it’s one of the first “Consider installing flexible track lighting. 61 things you should consider as it will affect the

derek swalwell (left); amelia stanwix (right) | | (right) stanwix amelia (left); swalwell derek Track lighting has come a long way and is way walls and ceiling details are finished. More

TRY THIS now designed so beautifully. Moveable and more, we are integrating lighting into the fixtures mean you can adjust the different architecture through cleverly concealed LED Anton wall sconce beam angles and adapt the lighting to your in Gunmetal, $946, and wall lights to complement standard photography 62 changing needs.” Jade Nottage Volker Haug. downlights.” Nina Maya @reallivingmag real living 106 107 ROOMS

“POWER POINTS SHOULD BE LOCATED WHERE YOU INTEND TO PLUG IN APPLIANCES AND USE EVERYDAY UTENSILS. POWER HIDDEN INSIDE 66 “Do some research online to see what’s DRAWERS WHERE YOU KEEP THINGS LIKE ELECTRIC RAZORS OR “Think of your kitchen less as a utilitarian space and more as a layered out there before honing in on specific room that’s as homely as any other in the house. An island bench can HAIRDRYERS IS A GOOD IDEA, OR AT LEAST HAVE POWER ADJACENT stores and brands. This way you can become a dine-in eating zone that feels more like a beautiful piece of TO WHERE YOU USE THEM, MAKING SURE YOU NEVER HAVE TO CROSS make informed decisions and get the furniture rather than just a standard kitchen bench.” Greg Natale 65 A WATER SOURCE, SUCH AS A BASIN TAP.” DARREN PALMER most bang for your buck!” Nina Maya 73 71 “Invest the most money into your kitchen, because it’s 67 “My favourite material the heart of the home. for kitchens is super- It’s a room that 72 white stone. It’s a mix of many renovators “My favourite material granite and marble, and underestimate to use in a kitchen is is perfect for benchtops because it costs the natural stone. At the as it’s hard-wearing. most. It has to be moment I’m loving the You don’t have to be practical, it has to be rich, emerald-green too precious about functional and marbles that are coming spills and marks, as it’s obviously aesthetics through from Greece. less susceptible to are important as well.” Natural stone provides staining than other Shareen Joel a real statement to any marbles.” Cushla kitchen and is so McFadden beautiful to prepare and serve food on when entertaining.” kerrie-ann jones (left); corina koch (right) Nina Maya Super White marble, about $770 a sq m,

70 styling “Break down your CDK Stone. inspiration board into material type and colour, such as flooring types and nina maya (left) | finishes, wall colours, 68 benchtop finishes, “A work triangle etc. This will help is a method used you clearly identify in laying out

the elements within interior design a kitchen, and uses your aspirational the concept of space so you know a metaphorical the exact things you triangle between the want in your home.” stove top, the sink and Georgia Ezra the fridge. Allowing a smooth work flow “YOU CAN SAVE TENS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IF YOU between these three THE DETAILS “BE REALISTIC ABOUT WHAT IS PRACTICAL FOR YOUR key areas is something USE THE BONES OF YOUR HOUSE RATHER THAN REPLACING MATTER. BREAK you should consider to | (right) (left); soljo chee kristina steven CURRENT LIFE STAGE. CHOOSING A BEAUTIFUL IT DOWN INTO create a functional EVERYTHING. LOOK AT UPCYCLING ORIGINAL FEATURES SUCH CATEGORIES SO FINISH THAT WILL EASILY DAMAGE AND QUICKLY kitchen space.” NOTHING GETS DETERIORATE IS NOT THE RIGHT ANSWER FOR A AS SKIRTING, DOORS AND WINDOW FRAMES, AND SANDING MISSED Christina Symes and

FAMILY WITH YOUNG CHILDREN.” GEORGIA EZRA Jessica Stewart photography BACK TIMBER FLOORBOARDS TO SAVE MONEY.” GEORGIA EZRA @reallivingmag 69 real living 108 74 109 ROOMS

“Layout and flow will add the most value to a home. It’s important for a home to feel “A GREAT TRICK TO MAKE A LIVING ROOM COSY AND INVITING IS good as soon as you walk into it, and have a welcoming and open feeling. People TO LAYER TEXTURE UPON TEXTURE IN LIMITED TONES, SUCH AS can often overspend on updates to the 77 SOFT, MUTED GREYS IN CASHMERE, WOOL, SILK AND VELVET. IT bathrooms and kitchen and underspend “If you have an open- CREATES INTEREST AND INSTANTLY DRAWS YOU IN.” NINA MAYA on the bones of the space.” Christina plan kitchen and living Symes and Jessica Stewart area, consider using different window 78 “Creating cohesion in open-plan spaces treatments in the can be tricky. Rugs offer the chance to tie same colour palette to in colours from other areas in the room help subtly separate and are a fantastic way to demarcate the two spaces.” 84 and create zones.” Greg Natale 79 Natasha Levak “For a kids bedroom, 75 use a neutral colour palette or removable wallpaper that can easily be changed as they grow. Also, select furniture pieces that can be adapted over 83 time, such as a height- “It’s important to adjustable desk.” properly plan out Kyal and Kara your kitchen renovation from the FROND MEMORIES start, and there are various online planning tools you can use to visually see Tropical wallpaper in it all come together. Hollywood, from $89 for The Kaboodle 3D a 2.5m x 65cm roll, The Wall Sticker Company. kitchen planner allows you to add or remove cabinets, trial various 80 configurations and “To zone an open-plan see exactly where living area, choose a your appliances will floor rug large enough to natasha levak (left); greg natale (right) sit.” Jeneile Kirk fit your furniture, be it a sofa and coffee table or styling a dining table and chairs. This creates a backdrop that visually defines the space.” Natasha Levak

76“For your living area, look to hardwearing 82 outdoor fabrics, such as dyed acrylic or “First impressions count, so improving the streetscape and entry will “Choose outdoor pavers in a similar colour to cotton-linen blends, for upholstery or floor have a significant impact on how people view your home. A good internal floors to provide a consistent look from

coverings. There are so many amazing | (right) soljo (left);kristina homer maree place to start is by creating a clear, neat and inviting pathway to the the inside out. To visually open up small outdoor

options that are no longer exclusive for door complemented by neat and tidy landscaping.” Kyal and Kara areas, select large, neutral-coloured pavers and outdoor use. They look good, feel good lay them in a staggered, stretcher bond pattern and can be easily spot-cleaned or Travertine Almond Milk Tumbled pavers (40.6cm across the width of the space.” Harry Tanner, TRY THIS 81 machine-washed.” Natasha Levak photography x 40.6cm), $77.50 a sq m, Beaumont Tiles. Boral | @boralaustralia

@reallivingmag real living 110 111 ROOMS

86 “It’s important to consider style, aesthetics and long-term “I LOVE THE USE OF CLAY PLASTER ON WALLS AS AN performance when selecting your roofing materials. Roof tiles are ALTERNATIVE TO PLASTERBOARD AND PAINT. IT HAS A a low-maintenance option and offer sound reduction and insulation BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL TEXTURE, IS EXTREMELY VERSATILE benefits, as well as fire and wind-resistance to properties. They come 85 AND KEEPS INDOOR AIR SUPER CLEAN.” CUSHLA McFADDEN in ceramic, terracotta and concrete variations.” Harry Tanner

“Interior spaces hold different values for different people. It’s important that you identify what spaces are important in your day-to-day life, and 87 invest more money in these areas.” Christina Symes and Jessica Stewart “ONE OF THE EASIEST WAYS TO ADD VALUE TO A GARDEN OR “TO ENSURE YOUR HOME FLOWS, “I call paint ‘liquid gold for OUTDOOR AREA IS TO 93 ALWAYS CONSIDER SIGHT LINES 94 renovators’, because it really BUILD A TIMBER DECK. – WHAT WILL YOU SEE WHEN YOU uplifts the value of a home. A DECK CREATES A good rule is to use no more 91 WALK DOWN A HALLWAY? ALSO than three external colours, but A GREAT STYLE “TO ENSURE YOU AVOID DESIGNING ROOMS THAT don’t do just one or you’ll have CHOOSE THE STATEMENT, WHILE HAVE TOO MANY OPENINGS, AS no contrast. In addition, inject PROVIDING THE PERFECT THIS MAKES FURNITURE PLACEMENT some personality by using RIGHT PAINT 92 a bold pop of colour on your ENTERTAINING SPACE DIFFICULT.” SIMONE HAAG COLOUR, ALWAYS FOR THE WARMER front door.” Cherie Barber GET A SAMPLE MONTHS.” ADAM DOVILE, POT AND PAINT CABOT’S SPOKESPERSON @adamdovile | @cabotsaus A SWATCH ON YOUR WALL AT LEAST ONE MAXIMISE YOUR OUTDOOR SQUARE METRE.” AREAS CHERIE BARBER

TRY THIS 88 “Families tend to come Senso Dryback vinyl plank in together in one large Moonlight, $89.60 area, then retreat to we are triibe and in bed (left); simone haag (right) for 15, Bunnings. their own spaces to be comfortably alone – styling allow for both these elements in your design.” Anita Panov and Andrew Scott

90“YOU CAN ACHIEVE A HUGE AMOUNT OF CHANGE WITH “Durability is key when choosing finishes, but it’s A FLOORING UPGRADE. A VINYL PLANK CAN BE INSTALLED

about finding the balance between something terence chin (left); mark roper (right) |

AS A DIY PROJECT IF YOU’RE DEALING WITH WORN BUT LEVEL that looks great and will stand the test of time. FLOORING. AND NEW TILES, A FLOATING ENGINEERED FLOOR A durable home will look better for longer and OR A TIMBER FLOOR REPLACEMENT CAN PRESENT YOUR will provide timeless appeal.” Megan Burns

HOME IN AN ENTIRELY NEW WAY.” DARREN PALMER and Christopher Glanville photography

@reallivingmag 89 real living 112 113 ROOMS

“NATURAL LIGHT IS THE ONE THING THAT WILL ADD THE MOST 5 VALUE TO A HOUSE. EVERYONE WANTS MORE NATURAL LIGHT, SO 96 9 “Natural ventilation CONSIDER PUTTING IN SKYLIGHTS OR EXTRA WINDOWS.” SHAREEN JOEL is the biggest eco-friendly consideration you can make. For “If your wall surfaces are in good condition, there instance, two-way may be no need to bother with an undercoat. fans that work in However, if your surface is old or marked, it’s both summer and worthwhile applying an undercoat so your top winter can minimise coat will look its best.” Andrea Lucena-Orr the need for air- conditioning.” Megan Burns and Christopher Glanville

97 “If you have lots of 101 frames, souvenirs 100 or knick-knacks that “AUSTRALIA’S HARSH you want to display, CLIMATE CAN WREAK a floating shelf is a HAVOC ON BUILDING practical, cost-effective MATERIALS, ESPECIALLY option, and doesn’t IF YOU’RE IN A COASTAL take up floor space.” OR COUNTRY LOCATION. Terri Grant, Bunnings FOR COASTAL, CONSIDER | @bunnings MATERIALS THAT WILL STAND UP TO THE ELEMENTS, LIKE SHELF LIFE CONCRETE, METAL OR NATURAL TIMBERS. FOR THE COUNTRY, SELECT Flexi Storage PRODUCTS THAT ARE floating shelf COMPLIANT WITH in Ash Oak (60cm BUSHFIRE REGULATIONS, x 24cm), $27.90, Bunnings. SUCH AS STEEL, GLASS AND BRICK.” STEVE PISANI, SCYON WALLS | @scyonwalls

“During a renovation, it’s often best to christopher frederick jones, courtesy of me architects CONSIDER move out of your home. By living in it, “Avoid replacing your roof at all costs – you’ll ALTERNATIVE 98 ACCOMMODATION you can prolong the process, which will easily drop between $15,000 and $30,000. ultimately cost you more money.” Megan Instead, consider a roof clean (up to $1500) 99 Burns and Christopher Glanville and paint spray ($2500).” Cherie Barber photography @reallivingmag 114