Innholdsfortegnelse for #5 i Best Homes

Step into this amazing home and you'll feel like you're in your own secluded oasis. The owners of this dwelling wanted it to reflect the relaxed, luxurious lifestyle of resort-style living. On a vacant block of land in rural New South Wales, this private oasis was to project a more modern approach to rural design, highlighting style and sophistication. It was a job only the best could do, so the owners called on the advice and experience of Starr Constructions. Once you enter the home you're engulfed by the great sense of space, and, with so much of it to play with it's no surprise the designers took advantage with an open-plan design. Soaring ceilings and an abundance of windows flood the home with natural light, which bounces off the…

This half-hectare, west-facing block with expansive bay views is located in Victoria's picturesque Mount Martha. The block is surrounded by large two-storey homes of five neighbours so privacy was an issue, which presented some interesting problems for Graeme Alexander Homes. As the block maximises views, the home required no additional elevation when built. Graeme Alexander Homes focused on maintaining privacy by using the block size and manipulating ground levels. Digging in the extended-family-accommodation living areas gives the illusion of a single-storey home from the front, as well as providing privacy to the west-facing pool and outdoor living areas. A separate garage was also incorporated, and the extended walkway leading up to the main entrance adds a touch of class while helping with excess bulk. An expansive native garden, which incorporates…

Australia's bushland, while beautiful and picturesque, can be unforgiving and building in it often comes with hurdles, as this property in Sydney's leafy north-west proves. The land was almost impossible to walk on before this family's fivebedroom home was built. "Rocks and shrubbery everywhere meant we faced challenges from the beginning," says Jesse Kassis of builder Kassis Classic Homes. The home's design was inspired by a new era of build and the need for an abundance of light and high ceilings. "We wanted to prevent disruption to the bush and find middle ground between style and nature," says Jesse. "We tried to keep the connection between the home and the existing bush, so all focal points lead to the beautiful bushland backdrop. When standing in the backyard, it's almost impossible…

" The inspiration behind the Highlander 329 design was practical elegance," says Michael Renwick, managing director of Hotondo Homes. "It's a home designed for the everyday Australian family, but it also has a sense of class." The brief for Hotondo Homes' Highlander 329 was for a home with a modern yet country feel to it, hence it is wonderful for towns that still boast country charm and are located close to metropolitan areas. As the home is quite wide, it requires a block of land large enough to accommodate it. The family-friendly four-bedroom residence was designed for those who like to entertain, aren't afraid to get their kitchen dirty and love the feeling of space and room to move. On paper, the Highlander is a double-storey home; however, when viewing…

The modern home is becoming increasingly tech-savvy, and not solely for entertainment purposes. Convenience is a huge drawcard, too. Whether you've got a spare room by way of the basement or have a full house and hectic schedule, decking out your house with the latest tech solutions can create flow and make life more enjoyable. This existing 6.9m x 3.9m basement room in Sydney's Bexley North was once an unloved junk room for a family of six. But it was always the homeowner's dream to have a home cinema equivalent in sound and picture to that of a commercial one. Not only has Len Wallis Audio combined forces with builder/theatre designer Andrew Fenton of Trade A Management to turn this dream into a reality, but it's big enough for the…

T he Aurora, Buildcraft Constructions' latest display home in the new HomeQuest Village, is a bold, contemporary and functional home that pushed the boundaries for the builder and the designer. The brief was for a contemporary home to suit the requirements of the modern Australian family. It needed to be able to evolve with time and naturally change and adapt to different conditions. The brief was met by allowing the architectural elements of the house to shine in their own right, and also to integrate them in the interior through the use of shapes, colours and materials. "The inspiration behind the Aurora came from keeping many successful elements of the floor plan from Buildcraft's previous display home, The Sterling, and introducing new elements," says Buildcraft Constructions. The external colour scheme…

Storybook Designer Homes is dedicated to producing beautiful residences. These projects are stateof-the-art, high-character design solutions at extremely competitive prices. Clients have the option of choosing traditional, classic, beach or modern styles and regardless of the building site — level, sloping or narrow — Storybook will create something special. Pictured are a few of the 2000 individual designs Storybook Designer Homes has created recently for its ownerbuilder clients. The process of individual design does not depend only on the floor plan and external shape of the house. Rather, it is the total desired impression inside and out. Storybook Designer Homes started out by providing products to satisfy the cottage and traditional market, but quickly realised there was a demand for more contemporary and coastal looks. Today, Storybook is proud of…

" Proving that family-friendly doesn't have to be understated, this lush kitchen is equal parts stylish and practical. The eye is instantly drawn to the dramatic island bench which boasts a mix of marble, timber and stainless steel to create an elegant look with an industrial twist. The combination of such durable materials also makes this kitchen incredibly easy to clean, an essential for the owner's growing family. The breakfast bar adds a social element to the zone, while the open-plan layout maximises every centimetre of space. The proximity to the outdoor entertaining area cleverly brings the outside in, flooding the room with natural light and creating a sense of airiness and vibrancy. Black appliances reaffirm the element of modish sophistication, which is upstaged only by the unique design of…

T hese days, award-winning pools need to be more than just beautiful. Although this featured design by FreeStyle Pools won the 2014 MBA Excellence in Pools award for Traditional or Geometric Concrete Pool over $100k, it is so much more. Built for a busy family with three children, the pool was created to accommodate all family members while being a standout feature in the backyard. The large structure was built on the irregular-shaped rear boundary of the home so that it nests into the "kink" along the fence line. This placement ensured there is a sizeable grassed area for the children to play and parents to entertain. The pool itself is rectangular in shape and was designed to be long enough for lap swimming. A feature wall that sits at…

E ach year, Landscaping Victoria hosts a boutique gardens competition in conjunction with the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show. Finalists are given a modest 5m x 5m space in which to build a garden that pushes design boundaries and showcases innovative ways to maximise small outdoor spaces. Ben Harris Gardens was awarded first place with the lush Calming Waters garden, which Ben designed and constructed. "The boutique garden needed to be 5m x 5m but apart from that there was no brief given," says Ben. "Calming Waters is a healing garden designed to nurture contentment and peace of mind by capturing the relaxing nature of moving water." Calming Waters provides a retreat from daily life, allowing visitors to be distracted from everyday problems, reconnect with nature and be restored.…

T his is a garden of true absorption, which is why I was so captivated when I first met the owners, heard their wish list and saw the property's hidden potential. Walking through the home you catch glimpses of the water, its surface glistening in the sun. Drawn closer by this, you quickly realise the newly designed upper garden is woven into the fabric of the home, with a seamless transition from inside to out. As soon as you step outside, the outdoor dining room stands before you. To one side of that is a large outdoor kitchen with barbecue, wok, stone worktop and a brightly coloured back wall set at a height that allows you to see the estuary of the river below. Allowing in dappled sun, there is…

This property demonstrates what can be achieved when quality design and construction are teamed with quality materials and plants. "The owners asked us to design and build for them a garden that would reflect the architectural style of the newly constructed house, work in harmony with the natural surrounds, have a functional layout, and offer the occasional focal point that would provide something special" says Darren Wilmott of DJ Landscapes. Given the significant size of the project, different garden styles were used in different areas. The two internal courtyards have a very modern feel, with clean-lined timber decks, laser-cut Corten light boxes and climbing frames. The rear garden has a warmer look and a more natural feel due to the 15 large gum trees dotted around the lawn, as well…

O n a stunning property on the tranquil Sydney foreshore, this pool seamlessly blends with the home's natural surroundings. Its timeless design represents the expertise of Pride Pools' signature range. In conjunction with building project manager Doug Ditchfield, Pride Pools was able to present a classic and luxurious pool that blends effortlessly with the grandeur of the house. Each element was chosen with meticulous care to embody a natural flow to suit the remarkable location. Unique luminous blue tiles by Bisazza, laid by Pride Pools' own tilers, cover the entirety of the pool and spa. Warm white underwater LED lights by Aqua-Quip were installed to cast a radiant glow over the water, creating a magical ambience for those swimming at night. Gas heating by Astral Viron keeps the water at…

C urving beautifully into an embankment, this stunning swimming pool is an example of the work carried out by the award-winning KMD — The Outdoor Construction Company, owned by Kieran Devlin. From construction to the renovation of existing pools, Kieran and his dedicated team can tackle any pool or landscape project with ease, even the more challenging ones, such as the featured pool. Each part of this project, built into the side of a steep, sloping property, was a challenge. From access to the site through to the completion of the project, every step had to be carefully planned to ensure a high-quality finished. Retaining walls were designed to level the area for the pool, which was curved to match the shape of the sandstone wall. An infinity edge, fully…

N estled in green bushland, this pool emerges like a tropical oasis. Designed by Jade Pools in conjunction with the owners, the featured pool takes full advantage of the sloping backyard, with a raised spa spilling into the pool and a spillway over the pool flowing into a catch tank, acting as a natural waterfall. The pool was built into the slope, appearing to be elevated from the ground. Dark-timber decking lines the perimeter of the pool and provides enough space for entertaining as well as relaxing. A small cabana is located at the rear, next to the raised spa, adding a touch of luxury. Built by Jade Swimming Pools, this sleek and modern design features a Polaris 280 pool cleaner, Thermo solar heating panels and a Davey CC28 sand…

T his young working family of four asked for more space for outdoor living as they enjoy being outside and wanted to maintain the natural light of their home. They needed protection for their young children from harmful UV rays, especially as the area has quickly become the most lived-in part of the home on weekends. Whether it is for entertaining family or friends, or enjoying the outdoors, this space ticks all the boxes for the family. They wanted to add value to their property and improve their lifestyle, so taking advantage and making the most of their backyard was important. Richard Nitarski, senior design consultant for Hi-Craft Home Improvements, scheduled an appointment with the family and during this consultation he measured the location and asked vital questions. A drawing…

R ock-filled gabions are quickly becoming a must-have in residential gardens. They're being used to build retaining and garden walls, and incorporated into myriad design elements, ranging from seating and water features to planters and fire pits. Often they're teamed with garden beds mulched with pebbles or graveltopped paths, ensuring a coordinated look and giving the garden an appealing natural feel. A company with an enviable reputation as a specialist supplier of feature rock and river pebbles, Mawsons has branched into the gabion market, providing 60/100mm pebbles and 150mm spall feature stone for use inside gabions. Mawsons can also supply the metal baskets (gabions) with a range of sizes including 300mm x 300mm x 1000mm, and 500mm x 500mm x 1000mm. Mawsons owns a variety of quarries from which it…

W ith HEATSTRIP's innovative heating solutions, there's no need to abandon your outdoor area in the cooler months or compromise its style with bulky freestanding heaters. HEATSTRIP Classic is a stylish electric radiant heater that provides even and comfortable heat. With a unique slimline shape and black facade, the unit blends elegantly into any decor. It is one of the most energy-efficient heaters available in Australia, with running costs starting from just 30 cents per hour, a fraction of the cost compared to gas-bottled patio heaters. This cutting-edge heater can provide comfort heating within undercover alfresco dining and barbecue areas, patios, verandahs, courtyards and balconies. HEATSTRIP Max is suitable for difficult-toheat exposed outdoor sites and areas with high ceilings such as pergolas, and balconies and indoor spaces such as garages.…

T oday, glass is used extensively in many of Australia's best homes. Whether it be in stylish bathrooms, glass wall feature windows or aesthetic glass fencing for pool safety, glass features create a spacious lightfilled home. But how do you keep glass looking like new? EnduroShield creates a protective coating that stops contaminants from etching into the porous glass surface. Instead, water and contaminants bead on the protective coating and are easily wiped off with a damp microfibre cloth and a mild detergent. In the bathroom, glass shower screens are protected from a build-up of soap scum and grime, decreasing cleaning time by up to 90 per cent. Glass pool fencing allows uninterrupted views, but is susceptible to chlorine, salt and pool chemicals, salt spray from nearby beaches, or general…

Once a decrepit duplex, this impressive new home couldn't be more different from its former structure. Created by Starr Constructions, the company worked with the client to establish a new residence that encapsulates exemplary modern living. With six adults and an infant living under one roof, this extended family required practical openplan living, but refused to compromise on modern luxuries. "The client's brief was inspired by design ideas accumulated over numerous years," says director of Starr Constructions, Jon Vithoulka. Boasting three master bedrooms with ensuites along with a guest room and study, the home provides ample space for each member of the family to unwind and relax. The entry's impressive facade hosts a feature wall comprising slate grey tiles that welcome you into the house. Not your typical family home,…

The owners of this home used to live in Mount Martha but they moved away due to work commitments. However, their love of the area prompted their return. The home they originally owned required a considerable amount of work to bring it up to a comfortable living standard. However, there was a beautiful 1099m² front-row block at the end of a neighbouring court which had been vacant for years that was just waiting to be built on. The owners asked Graeme Alexander Homes to design and construct a light, airy house on this block, with interesting lines, easy access and extra room for their extended family and guests. Some slight elevation was required as the home needed to be well balanced and functional, as well as make the most of…

The Erskine 290 display home from Hotondo Homes is designed for larger families who require the perfect combination of privacy and open-plan living and features everything one could ever need in a family home. "The Erskine offers the benefits of both open-plan living and more enclosed living spaces, where family members can enjoy each other's company or their own privacy at the same time," says Natalie O'Shea, building designer at Hotondo Homes. The large open-plan kitchen/dining/family area with alfresco is positioned at the back of the house. "Providing seamless living at the rear of the home was an important design factor for the Erskine 290," says Natalie. "The kitchen, living and dining areas all flow in one direction and there is a direct view to the backyard — it is…

Known for its vibe and restaurant culture, Enmore in Sydney's inner west offers a unique display of elements both young and old. The streets are lined with quaint heritage-style homes while the walls of buildings are covered in graffiti — a characteristic that has been turned into a feature of this new development. Inspired by the vibrancy of the graffiticovered walls and the retro feel of the surrounding area, ACG Building, together with Alec Pappas Architects, transformed a neglected commercial building into a multifunctional, four-storey hub in Enmore's town centre. With commercial spaces on the ground floor, the top levels host one- and two-bedroom apartments that evoke a modern, industrial feel with lightfilled interiors and contemporary furnishings. Bold accent pieces pay homage to the graffiti that now marks the walls…

Built in the new Willowdale Estate at Sydney's Denham Court, this latest display from Trevelle Homes is an excellent example of a large, functional home built on an average-size block of land at an achievable cost, yet with many extra inclusions. "This single-storey home is typical of Trevelle Homes' style, which creates the feeling of a custom home design with all the trimmings, but it's designed and built to be within the average family's budget," says Eddie Treffiletti, director of Trevelle Homes. Created with young families in mind, the display home is set over 28 squares and offers four bedrooms, a separate kids' area and an abundance of entertaining spaces so that all members of the family have plenty of room to enjoy themselves. However, the major centrepiece, or hub,…

I t was an "American dream" come true for professional couple Heidi and Alan when their knock-down-rebuild delivered their ideal home. Working closely alongside Farm Houses of Australia during the nine-month project, the pair transformed their run-down Blackburn property into the home they had always longed for. "It was a dream of ours for seven years to have a home like the one chosen for our wedding venue," says Heidi. "We interviewed a shortlist of builders who were building homes like these and found Farm Houses to be the best match for us." Situated on a 895m 2 sloped rectangle block, the property features a garage, porch and verandah. Both Heidi and Alan had a clear vision of the elements they wanted to include in the design. The home has…

N othing is more hypnotising or comforting than the flickering flames of a fire in winter. Australian-owned company Sculpt Fireplace Collection combines luxury and comfort with its aesthetically pleasing fireplaces by French manufacturers JC Bordelet, Axis and Seguin. Sculpt Fireplace is intent on providing Australians with a dynamic collection of designer fires, broadening the market for people who want an interior that is finished with a high-end design aesthetic. Handmade in limited quantities, awardwinning JC Bordelet fireplaces are dramatically suspended from the ceiling and aim to enhance the ambience and warmth of any living space. Crafted in the south of France, the contemporary new-age design of the Bordelet Tatiana 997 hanging wood fire is constructed from handshaped and spun steel. With a 180-degree viewing area and 360-degree pivot rotation option,…

T he brief to designer Mark Gacesa of Ultraspace was to create a home that would make the clients feel as if they were on a permanent vacation. The design needed to combine showstopping looks with highly robust qualities. The combination of beauty, flexibility and strength made DuPont Corian the compelling choice for surfaces throughout the project. Corian Lava Rock was chosen in the master bathroom to create seamless harmony with the charcoal stone flooring and Lava Rock woven wall panelling. Its lightweight properties were ideal for essential practical details, such as concealing the laundry chute flap. In the office, the curved desk inlays in Corian Rice Paper accentuate the beautiful organic lines of the rosewood desktop and flow harmoniously into the lower-floor joinery, visually connecting the desk to the…

A Total Concept designed the extensive external areas of this large Sydney lower north shore estate to incorporate a swimming pool, tennis court, poolside cabana and courtyards, all set within traditional lawns and gardens. Together with the renovations of their home, the homeowners wanted the exterior to provide the finisheding touches to this quality periodstyle residence and offer a stunning outlook. "The external areas of this property were very dilapidated, which allowed us to start the project from scratch. We were able to design and integrate the spaces and assimilate the pool, tennis court, cabana, formal lawn, maze garden, water court, covered entertaining decks, entry paths and driveway to seamlessly integrate with the architecturally designed residence," says John Storch from A Total Concept Landscape Architects + Swimming Pool Designers. "The…

T he finisheding touch to a knock-downrebuild project, this landscape was, quite simply, designed to be the ultimate in luxury outdoor living. The home has a classic French vibe with a contemporary edge for modern living and was appointed to a very high standard, so the landscape also had to reflect and complement that brief. "We sought to create a series of outdoor living spaces which can be used for both quiet contemplation and effortless entertaining — a luxury outdoor living environment," says Adrian Swain, director of ecodesign. The team designed the garden, swimming pool and external features, and also selected and specified the materials for construction, providing a comprehensive landscape design package to tender stage. They created the beautiful formal garden layout, with white crepe myrtles and ornamental pears…

W e expect a great deal from our outdoor spaces. Not only do they need to look good, they need to be just as enjoyable to use on a chilly winter's night as they are on a hot summer day. In this alfresco retreat, designed by Chris Weiss, director of Formation Landscapes, we see the ultimate year-round outdoor living space. Every effort was made to maximise the family's trans-seasonal entertaining opportunities. It was also important that the space complement the architectural style of the house and provide areas where adults and children alike could gather and play outside. The overall feel is one of laidback luxury. The look? Chris describes it as "rustic chic". While the end result may radiate an aura of relaxation and effortless elegance, creating the family's…

This family with three young children who love swimming required not only entertainment from their pool, but also a space that interacts with the rumpus area of their modern contemporary home. Faced with an 800m² block with a gentle slope, Design Pools created an eye-catching, 8m x 4m-long, mosaic-tiled pool plus spa, and a feature wall to hide all pool equipment from view. But the real standout of the design is the glass wall at one end of the pool. "This project really makes excellent use of the land and space," says Brian Formosa of Design Pools. "There was good use of the ground levels, where the pool is out of the ground on the eastern end. The pool works well with the house design and there is circulation between…

E nsuring an easy flow from inside to out is always a priority when designing a garden, as is capturing pleasing vistas that can be enjoyed when looking out from the home. Such was the case with this renovated Californian bungalow, the rear wall of which featured expansive bifold glass doors. "The garden can be viewed from almost anywhere in the house, chiefly the kitchen, lounge room and central corridor, as well as from different points within the garden itself," says landscape architect Nick Kennedy from Art in Green. "The goal was to make the rear garden design work from all those different angles." Starting with the space directly outside the lounge room, there is a minimalist central courtyard complementing the modern interior. The courtyard boasts mounded beds of Korean…

W hen you're blessed with a stunning water view, you need to do everything you can to enhance it, which was precisely what the owners of this property in Lorne, a seaside town on Louttit Bay in Victoria, did. Working to a design by Tim Nicholas of TNLA Landscape Architects, Aus Scapes built a beautiful garden that doesn't just maximise the view out to the bay, it nestles into the contours of the site and complements the architectural style of the house. Comprising a rich tapestry of textures, forms and shapes, the new garden makes the most of the sloping block, providing the family with a variety of outdoor spaces, complemented by feature gardens. "Ultimately, it is a place of fun and relaxation," says Mark Stanesby of Aus Scapes. "The…

T his stunning futuristic home, designed by Michael MacCormick of MacCormick-Simonian Architects, consists of two living pavilions resting above a stone podium housing five bedrooms, and providing magnificent views of Middle Harbour. The steel structure that tethers the pavilions morphs into an aesthetic, natural dramatic canopy, protecting the outdoor entertaining area from sun and rain, while also realising an inner area of landscaped garden. The use of open space and geometrically arranged natural cane reed under polycarbonate roofing creates a seamless ambience of natural light, harbour views and nature, blended with superb modern artistry. House of Bamboo® supplied the cane reed and continues its tradition of providing natural, sustainable materials that are highly practical and versatile for imaginative shading and cladding projects. Here, cane reed, as with other House of…

T he brief was to design and build a stylish, visually interesting garden to complement the recently renovated home in Sydney's Roseville. The new garden was to include a water feature near the front entrance and provide safe pedestrian access as an alternative to the dangerously steep driveway, which was a hazard, especially during wet weather. Manna Landscapes' design is contemporary with a tropical twist. It incorporates multicoloured plant foliage for year-round interest and a multi-tiered water feature. The custombuilt water feature collects the flow from the water window built into the house wall and is positioned so that it can be appreciated from the home's internal living areas. To provide safe entry for pedestrians, Manna Landscapes built a stylish set of stairs with gentle risers. These stairs are separated…

B arbecues are tricky appliances; a wise choice makes for a gorgeous centrepiece for outdoor entertaining, while a poorer selection can quickly become a rusting hunk of junk. Thankfully, the Capital barbecue range is a worthy pick if we've ever seen one. Handcrafted in California by a dedicated boutique specialist, these sleek models suit any outdoor space and make it incredibly easy for even weekend chefs to grill something truly mouth-watering. Features include 30Mj zone burners, which allow for fast heating and reduced cooking times, as well as auto re-ignition and flame failure for safety. A halogen lighting system helps to provide great visibility when cooking at night, while a spring-assisted 304-grade stainless-steel lid allows for smooth, easy usage of the hood. Stainlesssteel-encased ceramic rods help to provide even heating…

W ith electricity prices at an all-time high, it's more important than ever to minimise and be mindful of your energy use. The new Envirotouch energy timer switches range gives you the power to control the usage of energy throughout the home and workplace, with a simple point-of-use control and convenient countdown options. You can select a time or cycle on the Envirotouch for automatic turn off, and it can even be used as a normal on/off switch, too, helping you reduce energy costs, greenhouse gas emissions and product burnout. Suitable for use with a large number of different features, the Envirotouch works with products including indoor and outdoor lights, small appliances, heated towel rails, fans, air conditioners and heaters. Envirotouch can be retrofitted and the installation is the same…

W hether you have a young family or are adhering to building regulations which require a pool fence or balustrade, these products need to enhance your outdoor environment rather than detract from its elegance. Sentrel Australia offers a unique, functional and highquality range of vertical cable balustrades and pool fences that fit seamlessly and stylishly into most poolside spaces. Previous cable balustrade systems used horizontal cables, which continue to be a major safety concern, especially for children. Inspired by the horizontal cable systems that have been popular and effective for many years, Sentrel balustrades utilise a vertical orientation of the cables. Consequently the company has produced a barrier system that not only looks great, but cannot be climbed by children. This satisfies strict new safety legislation for balustrades more than…

Hedger Constructions has revamped a classic country home in Marysville that not only sets a high standard for luxury homes, but also reflects the town's unique geographical setting. The clients were intent on maximising the tranquil environment of the local area and wanted to construct a home that had the dual purpose of acting as a retreat from their hectic work lives, while also facilitating a short-term holiday rental, the "Amazing Bush Accommodation", for guests. Hedger Constructions implemented these components by integrating a sloping block and an external cladding of spotted gum and stone. The finishing touch was a rooftop garden that perfectly complemented the natural surroundings of the home in a seamless fashion. Attention to detail was very important to the clients and as the building progressed, so did…

An opportunity to build a house with direct access to the beach was the fulÞ lment of this homeowner’s dream. The owner was so passionate about the design process that the project was put on hold for seven years so that it could be built to its fullest potential. The original concept stacked up well and only required a few modiÞ cations by Graeme Alexander Homes. The 907m² odd-shaped site has a shared right of way down the northern side of the street. This makes the home appear more like a stand-alone town house. The views are to the south-east of the home, so Graeme Alexander Homes elevated the major living areas in order to maximise views and accommodate the demands of the ß oorplan. On the upper level you…

" Originally located next to the tragic Thredbo landslip site, Gunyang Lodge needed an impressive redesign so architect and avid skier David Law was commissioned to rebuild this historic building. The project represented a fresh and positive start for the lodge. Cost was a major consideration and building the lodge off-site was not only the quickest way to see the job completed, but also the most cost-effective solution. "Extreme challenges face anyone who builds in the winter months at Thredbo, but back in June 2005, building commenced in the comfort of our NSW Central Coast construction site in Somersby. Everything came together in November 2005 when the new, fitted-out Gunyang Lodge was transported in 14 sections from Somersby to Thredbo. Then the 14 sections on two levels were craned carefully…

A s the Sydney population grows and land becomes more expensive, the block sizes in new land releases across Sydney are shrinking, with many frontages having widths of 7.5m to 12.5m. There is now a change in buyers' perceptions of what they can afford for a desirable home. Affordability is a major factor in the decision process for potential buyers as the land price per square metre is so expensive. The smaller the block, the smaller the house, resulting in a more affordable property. Narrow lots really are the way of the future. It's a misconception that a narrow lot doesn't allow for a good-sized house. A narrow residence can still feel very spacious inside — it's all about the design. Rawson Homes has responded to the demand for smaller…

VICTORIAN HOMESTEAD SERIES Featured above is the Bowral, from Harkaway Homes' newest range, the Victorian Homestead Series. The 298m² (32-square) home is priced at $154,781 for the deluxe lock-up package, including GST. The home comprises four bedrooms with built-in robes, a study, living room, rumpus room, meals area/family room, two bathrooms, walk-in linen cupboard, a kitchen with walk-in pantry and a laundry. This design captures the best elements of yesteryear, with tall, external walls, high ceilings, leadlight-topped box-bay windows and French doors. The completely stabilised, prefabricated frames and trusses are kilndried and termite-resistant. Full-frame erection is included, as is a choice of brick or weatherboard, Victorian hardware and fixings, Colorbond roofing and Victorian ash windows. Optional extras include a verandah, 3m ceilings and a feature entry door frame. Internal linings,…

" The best measure of whether a design works or not is how the finished composition resonates with the space. Does it feel natural and right, as if all elements are placed as they should be? I think this design achieves that, which is all the more of an accomplishment considering the narrowness of the space and the requirements of the brief. We needed to include all the aspects of a fully functional bathroom and laundry. Given the limited width of the area, it was quite a challenge to install both a bath and a shower. By placing them side by side and using the shower screen as the divider between wet and dry areas, this hurdle was stylishly cleared. Extending the bath shelf to run through the shower area,…

"This stylish kitchen in a beautiful Sunshine Coast home was individually designed for the taste, lifestyle and needs of the owners. The materials used in the design make it a unique space that is functional and perfect for entertaining. The clients wanted a commercial look that wouldn't take over the kitchen but would stand out enough for it to be a feature of the home. The stainless-steel island on castors, with its distinct industrial appearance, balances out the room nicely. The Belvedere granite benchtop is a superb addition to the space, with its visually striking granite pattern. LED sensor lights were placed under the wall cupboards for a high-tech twist, allowing for subtle bench lighting with the wave of a hand. We installed a walk-in butler's pantry hidden from view…

T his project on Sydney's northern beaches was all-important to the family who lives here. Ten years earlier they had filled in a pool and made way for a cubby house, but now that their family had developed and changed, they wanted an amazing new pool to better fit in with the landscape that sloped dramatically from one side to the other. A pool and outdoor entertainment were now their highest priorities. "I wanted to create a calm, serene and completely private space that had an element of style which was very suited to the owners," says Matthew Leacy from Landart Landscapes + Pools, who was entrusted with the design and construction of the space. However, the backyard presented to Matthew featured a huge eucalypt raised about 2m above the…

T he owners of this home in Box Hill North, east of Melbourne, turned to Inge Jabara of Inge Jabara Landscapes to design a multifunctional, multi-generational garden that would give the family a fresh perspective and an enhanced outdoor lifestyle. Wide bifold doors opening the home to the rear garden created a seamless indoor­outdoor flow, an essential element for the homeowners. Ensuring the outlook from inside the house was something special was just as important, as was designing spaces that could cater for small children and adults alike. More specifically, the brief called for a garden that was easy to use. There was to be a swimming pool and spa area, a lawn where the children could play, a stylish deck for entertaining and, overall, a greater degree of privacy…

A good pool design is one that not only looks great, but is also functional, according to Aquastone Pools & Landscapes co-owner, Gavin Bazley. "This pool in Sydney's Strathfield ticks all of those boxes," says Gavin. The homeowners have two young children and wanted their pool to complement their modern new home. They also needed it to incorporate a fun factor for their children and friends. "It really has something for everyone," says Gavin. "There's a spa that both the adults and kids can enjoy, and an amazing fake rock water feature that is great for the kids to jump off or swim underneath. The fun doesn't stop there, however, as there's also a fantastic waterslide that will keep the kids entertained for hours." The 9m-long pool is a key…

W hen designing the outdoor spaces around this residence, Moto Kihara of Kihara Landscapes worked directly with Rex Lin Architects, the firm responsible for the design of the house. This was a very close, collaborative effort, with the architect valuing Moto's vast experience in the creation of authentic Japanese gardens and Moto respecting the various material selections that had been made and seamlessly integrating them into his design. Kihara Landscapes was engaged by the architect to design outdoor spaces that would complement the very modern, somewhat imposing two-storey residence. The brief was for a simple, contemporary, Japanese-style outdoor design that would have a modern Zen feel in one area and a more traditional, but still pared-back look in the other. Both areas needed to complement the grand scale of the…

W hen you are blessed with such a breathtaking waterside location, you need to do everything you can to maximise the view and ensure a seamless connection between house, garden and water's edge. While this property overlooking Sydney's Middle Harbour has amazing views, turning the site into an easy-to-navigate landscape wasn't as simple as it seemed. The brief from the owners appeared straightforward enough to begin with: they wanted to be able to get from their house located at the top of the site to the boat shed and shoreline at the bottom as comfortably and safely as possible. What evolved over the 18 months it took to complete the project was nothing short of a masterpiece in modern landscaping — and a lesson in ingenuity. The sheer scope of…

W hen you first feast your eyes on this pool, it is hard to look away from the spectacular water feature. The water cascades into a carefully placed wading pool, delicately adding serenity to the space. Built by Artesian Pools and designed by the homeowners, this pool makes perfect use of all available space. At a convenient 9m x 4m with an additional wading pool, it offers just the right amount of space for family fun and exercise. The water feature contains a Perspex window which runs along the front of the pool. A blower at the bottom of the window and strategically placed jets in the wading pool below guide the water elegantly from the main swimming pool into the wading pool. To ensure the space is family friendly,…

I n collaboration with A Total Concept, Jade Swimming Pools has created a stunning yet functional masterpiece. When selecting their pool, the homeowners wanted a design that would complement their new home while ensuring the backyard was utilised effectively. An award-winning company, Jade Swimming Pools has won numerous accolades including the SPASA 2014 Gold Medal for innovation. This particular pool is a testament to the company's amazing ability to create pools that are both original and eye-catching. Surrounded by lush green lawn, the 9m x 4m rectangular layout of the pool is the central feature of the backyard. The designers at A Total Concept took advantage of the backyard slope by cleverly incorporating the travertine coping with integrated steps. The striking glass window in the front of the pool, partnered…

F or an experienced landscape designer like Anthony Bennett of ABS Landscape Services, a sloping garden isn't a problem — it's an opportunity to create something unique. The owners of this property in the Melbourne suburb of Surrey Hills wanted a swimming pool, but as the block was quite steep they worried this might not be achievable. Also on their wish list was a sizeable lawn, a place for a table and chairs so they could dine alfresco, and the creation of as much useable space as possible. Knowing they needed professional help, they put their trust in Anthony to design and build their dream garden. Anthony's vision was for a modern landscape that would have a subtle Japanese flavour, make the most of the backdrop provided by the nature…

Z ipscreen has been specially designed to transform any undercover alfresco space, including pergolas, verandahs, balconies and decked areas, into an additional entertainment room for your home. By installing Zipscreen blinds you can take advantage of the Australian climate and maximise the use of your outdoor space all year round. Zipscreen provides comfort, privacy and protection by blocking the sun's harmful UV rays as well as wind, rain and insects. Zipscreen can also be used as an external window covering, providing a sleek and durable alternative to traditional canvas awnings or roller shutters. Through the installation of external window coverings you can stop the sun's rays from directly hitting the glass, thus reducing your overall energy consumption during the warmer months. The latest development to improve the usability of Zipscreen…

W hen it comes to garden edging, you need a product that is strong, versatile and weather resistant — and you can't get anything that fits the bill better than steel. Greenlines Gardenware's FormBossTM range of lowmaintenance steel garden edging lets you be the boss of your own garden design. Greenlines Gardenware offers a large array of easy-to-install domestic and commercial-grade steel edging solutions ranging from flush edges to 400mm-high retaining walls. You also have a choice of galvanised steel, ZAM® (exclusive looking and ultra durable) or Corten steel (the latter boasting a weathered finished), and various gauges to ensure the edging is of the appropriate strength for your project. FormBoss edging systems allow you to create curves and angles with ease, and thanks to the rounded top edge and…

OUTDOOR OPTIONS OUTDOOR LIVING If you're looking to add extra living space to your home, Markilux has the solution. The company's awnings are ideal for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors, while effectively protecting you and your family and friends from the sun. Made from exclusive fabrics, each awning offers a sun protection factor of 50+. When entertaining at night, take advantage of Markilux innovations, including awnings fitted with ambient strip lighting or LED spotlights and radiant integrated heating. DESIGN AND DURABILITY Designed to complement the interior and exterior of your home, Markilux folding-arm and conservatory awnings can be used on their own or combined with existing structures to create extra living space for your deck, courtyard or conservatory. The range of more than 35 awning systems, 285-plus fabric colours and…

I magine your swimming pool shimmering with the sparkle of a thousand flawless diamonds, adding elegance to your pool and surrounding area. For style, quality and entertainment value, it's hard to go past the enduring beauty of Designer Beadcrete. With its patented glass bead technology, Designer Beadcrete adds a diamond-like shimmer and clarity to pool water. Designer Beadcrete contains a mixture of coloured irregular glass spheres and clear glass spheres. These are embedded in a unique cement mix that contains a number of patented additives. The result is a pool interior of absolute durability, which reflects sun and artificial light throughout the water, bringing a spectacular and elegant look to any concrete shell pool. Whether a pool is recently built or has become old and tired and could use a…

A re you sick of wasting time cleaning your pool? Don't spend precious leisure hours doing maintenance work for your new pool when Waterco's Q360 in-floor pool cleaning system can do it for you. It automatically cleans most of the pool, even while you swim. Virtually invisible, the Q360 system is fully automatic and can handle high debris levels, so there is no need for an additional cleaner with hoses and cords that tangle. The Q360 also circulates water through the pool, resulting in less algae growth and better heat and chemical dissipation, with increased operating efficiencies and reduced chemical and heating costs. Though in-floor pool cleaning systems have been around for years, the Q360 system has fewer moving parts and a valve design that propels water more effectively through…