Completehome https://www.completehome.com.au Turn your house into a home... Fri, 05 Sep 2025 06:06:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.3.2 https://da28rauy2a860.cloudfront.net/completehome/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/24103109/complete-home-favicon.jpg Completehome https://www.completehome.com.au 32 32 Seamless Living with a Double-Sided Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/interiors-lighting-heating/interiors-lighting-heating-gas/seamless-living-with-a-double-sided-lopi-probuilder-36cf-see-thru-gs2.html Fri, 05 Sep 2025 06:06:21 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86976 In the heart of Strathfield, NSW, this stunning home built by Michaelangelo Designer Homes redefines the balance of…

The post Seamless Living with a Double-Sided Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
In the heart of Strathfield, NSW, this stunning home built by Michaelangelo Designer Homes redefines the balance of classic elegance and modern luxury. Designed in a Modern French Provincial style, the home features timeless detailing, soft tones, and exquisite joinery—all beautifully enhanced by the inclusion of the Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 Gas Fireplace.

Purchased through Home Heat & BBQ Penrith, the fireplace installation was the perfect solution to bridge two central living zones: the formal lounge and the adjoining dining and kitchen area. By placing the unit at the heart of the home, it creates a natural focal point that unifies both spaces with warmth and visual impact.

Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2

The choice of a double-sided fireplace was proposed by the project’s interior designer, and the decision proved to be inspired. The see-thru design not only offers a practical heating solution but also creates a sense of connection between rooms, adding depth and flow to the overall floor plan. From a cosy evening in the lounge to elegant entertaining in the dining space, the Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 ensures a consistent and inviting atmosphere throughout.

For the builder, the decision to work with Lopi was simple. “Having relied on Lopi fireplaces across multiple projects for many years, the proven combination of quality, performance, and design flexibility made the 36CF See-Thru GS2 the obvious choice”. Beyond its striking appearance, the ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 is designed with functionality in mind. The GreenSmart 2 system allows effortless control over flame height, fan speed, and accent lighting, ensuring year-round comfort at the push of a button. Its efficient heating output is perfectly suited to the scale of this elegant home, providing both ambience and reliable warmth.

Visually, the installation is elevated by the finely crafted fireplace surround, with layered detailing that complements the French Provincial aesthetic. Framed by black steel and paired with sophisticated cabinetry and glass-panelled doors, the fireplace sits harmoniously within the design—anchoring the home’s style with understated grandeur.

This project beautifully demonstrates how a well-chosen fireplace can become more than just a functional feature. The Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 enhances both the practicality and the timeless appeal of this French Provincial home, delivering a statement piece that connects spaces and enriches the way the family lives and entertains.

Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2

Build and fireplace images and information supplied by Michaelangelo Designer Homes.

The Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 is available in either Natural Gas or LPG (Bottled Gas) configurations, making it the perfect choice for those seeking an efficient, traditional gas fireplace equipped with advanced technologies.

For more information on the ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2, feel free to contact our team on 1800 064 234 or contact us here. To view more of our Traditional Gas Fireplace Range, please visit our website or view our Traditional Gas Fireplace Brochure.

The post Seamless Living with a Double-Sided Lopi ProBuilder 36CF See-Thru GS2 appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Embrace Darkness in Style https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/window-coverings/embrace-darkness-in-style.html Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:04:31 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86970 Tuiss Launches NEW Click2Fit Total Blockout Roller Blind. For design lovers and renovators alike, light is one of…

The post Embrace Darkness in Style appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Tuiss Launches NEW Click2Fit Total Blockout Roller Blind.

For design lovers and renovators alike, light is one of the most powerful forces in shaping a space. Too much, and a room can feel stark and restless. Too little, and it loses its energy. The new Click2Fit Total Blockout Roller Blind from Tuiss offers a rare combination of complete darkness, architectural precision, and design-led style, all in a simple DIY package.

Tuiss Blinds Online

From Gaps to Complete Darkness

Ordinary blockout blinds do their best, but those small slivers of light that creep in around the edges can make all the difference. The Click2Fit Total Blockout Roller Blind has been designed to eliminate that problem entirely.

Tuiss Blinds Online

Its fully framed system with side channels seals every edge with subtle mohair inserts, creating true blockout conditions at any time of day. Whether it’s for deep restorative sleep, a weekend sleep-in, or a perfectly darkened home cinema, the result is the kind of control that transforms how you experience a room.

DIY Made Chic

Great design doesn’t have to mean complicated installation. Thanks to the No Drill Click2Fit system, this blind is purpose-built for recess windows and clicks neatly into place with no screws, no tools, and no wall damage.

In just minutes, anyone can achieve a finish that looks custom-fitted and professionally installed. It’s a refreshing shift in DIY design with clever engineering that makes style accessible to everyone.

Tuiss Blinds Online

Tuiss Blinds Online

Tuiss Blinds Online

Shades That Style Your Space

Function alone isn’t enough in modern interiors. That’s why the range has been curated in a selection of sophisticated colours that speak to today’s design sensibilities.

Soft neutrals lend calm and serenity to a bedroom retreat, while darker tones intensify the atmosphere of a home theatre. Minimal, sleek finishes make it easy to complement both contemporary renovations and more traditional spaces.

Tuiss Blinds Online

Tuiss Blinds Online

Tuiss Blinds Online

Designed for Real Life

The Click2Fit Total Blockout Roller Blind adapts to a wide variety of lifestyles and interiors. It’s the perfect solution for:

  • Shift workers who need total rest during daylight hours.
  • Parents looking for a calm, darkened nursery.
  • Film enthusiasts who want a true cinematic experience at home.
  • Renters who want a high-performance window treatment without drilling.
  • Anyone who values the luxury of sleeping in, undisturbed by early morning light.

A New Standard in DIY Window Furnishings

This launch represents a new benchmark in the category, with a blind that balances practicality, style, and innovation in equal measure. Tuiss has proven that DIY can be both chic and seamless, empowering homeowners and renters alike to achieve professional results with ease.

Tuiss Blinds Online

Because when it comes to creating a home that feels as good as it looks, the details matter. And sometimes, the detail that changes everything is simply the absence of light.

Explore the range online today. Tuiss. Blinds online, made simple.

 

The post Embrace Darkness in Style appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
The Timber Flooring Choice: Australian Species or European Oak? https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/the-timber-flooring-choice-australian-species-or-european-oak.html Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:58:11 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86955 Trends in interiors rise and fade, but timber flooring continues to hold its place as one of the…

The post The Timber Flooring Choice: Australian Species or European Oak? appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Trends in interiors rise and fade, but timber flooring continues to hold its place as one of the most enduring choices for Australian homes.

Its appeal lies not only in the warmth and beauty it brings to a room, but also in the way it adapts to every lifestyle, from relaxed family living to more formal, design-driven spaces. Choosing the right floor isn’t about one species being “better” than another, it’s about finding the timber that speaks to the way you live and the atmosphere you want to create.

The Character of Australian timber

Australian species bring an unmistakable sense of place. Engineered boards with a native veneer capture the knots, colour shifts and texture that make our timbers so distinctive, while the engineered construction ensures stability and durability.

At the heart of Embelton’s range are two timeless favourites: Blackbutt and Spotted Gum. Blackbutt is known for its pale to golden-brown tones and straight, consistent grain, creating a clean yet warm backdrop. Spotted Gum, on the other hand, is more dramatic, moving between light browns, deep reds and even hints of grey-green, giving each floor a truly individual character. With finish options in gloss or matte, there’s flexibility to lean towards contemporary restraint or something more rustic and organic.

Embelton Flooring

For those who prefer subtlety, Tasmanian Oak (often called Victorian Ash in Victoria) offers a softer look. Its gentle spectrum of straw, light brown and delicate pink hues make it an ideal choice for open plan living, providing a seamless canvas that allows furniture and décor to shine.

If warmth is what you’re after, Tallowwood’s golden honey tones and olive undertones add richness without overwhelming a room. And for households that demand toughness, Grey Ironbark stands out. Renowned as one of the hardest Australian species, its dense structure and deep palette, ranging from pale brown to chocolate, make it perfectly suited to high-traffic areas where resilience is essential.

 

The Versatility of European Oak

European Oak tells a different story, one of refinement, versatility and design possibilities. Embelton’s Oak collection spans luxurious wideboards, herringbone and rustic planks, each finished in a matte brushed texture with a micro-bevel edge that creates crisp, architectural lines. The colour palette is just as versatile, stretching from Scandinavian-inspired blondes to rich, moody browns, easily shifting between coastal, country, or refined contemporary styles.

Another defining feature of Oak is its grading. Embelton’s ABCD grade ranges balances cleaner boards with those that showcase more natural features, achieving a character rich finish. For homeowners who want to celebrate the full personality of timber, Rustic Oak includes additional feature heavy E graded boards. Showcasing the full spectrum of European Oak’s knots, swirls and marks, delivering a bold and expressive finish.

Embelton Flooring

Parquetry, particularly in a herringbone pattern, remains the showpiece of European Oak. With its geometric rhythm and ability to catch light, herringbone instantly elevates a space, adding movement and sophistication. It’s particularly effective in hallways and entrances where it creates a sense of arrival, but it also works beautifully in dining rooms or studies to define a change in mood. And for those wanting a local touch, Embelton even offers a Blackbutt herringbone, blending Australian warmth with classic European style.

Herringbone Flooring

Pairing traditional planks with herringbone is an increasingly popular design move. Long, straight boards provide calm continuity in open spaces, while patterned sections inject drama and formality, effectively zoning areas without the need for walls.

Finding your perfect floor

So, which is better, European Oak or Australian species? The answer depends entirely on your vision for your home. If you want the unmistakable feel of native timbers, from the subtle warmth of Tasmanian Oak to the rugged strength of Grey Ironbark, Australian species are a natural choice. If you’re drawn to flexibility, refined colour palettes and the artistry of parquetry, European Oak may be the right fit. Either way, Embelton’s engineered collections make it possible to enjoy the authentic beauty of timber while ensuring practicality for everyday living.

Embelton Flooring

Embelton Flooring

Embelton Flooring

Your floor is more than a surface; it sets the tone for your home. Whether you choose the heritage and character of Australian timber or the elegance and adaptability of European Oak, the result is a foundation that will outlast passing trends and grow with the way you live.

Visit Embelton Flooring today to start your timber flooring journey.

The post The Timber Flooring Choice: Australian Species or European Oak? appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Bring on the backyard bounce this Summer https://www.completehome.com.au/outdoors/bring-on-the-backyard-bounce-this-summer.html Tue, 02 Sep 2025 23:27:43 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86942 Now’s the time to start planning for some family good times. Creating an outdoor space to entertain and…

The post Bring on the backyard bounce this Summer appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Now’s the time to start planning for some family good times.

Creating an outdoor space to entertain and relax with friends and family is top of most people’s Summer wish list – and putting in a @mrtrampoline trampoline ticks all the boxes. It’s an outdoor activity for the kids to enjoy; an attractive addition to your garden landscape; and an asset that will increase the resale value of the home (for the more hard-headed amongst us).

Hand-made, hand-painted, and fully Australian made, this is a premium product. The frames are made from all-Australian steel, galvanised through a hot-dip process that gives the frame decades of serviceability over its closest rivals. The springs are made from high-tensile galvanised steel according to Mr Trampoline’s specific design, delivering a longer, smoother bounce and decades of performance.

Mr Trampoline

The springs are set to ‘quiver’ at rest, which means there’s no ‘dead’ feel to the bounce. Every component is carefully and exactingly manufactured to be the very best it can be. But it’s the trampoline bed that is the bona fide, ‘piece de resistance’. No less than six specialists handcraft the bounce bed over a period of four days. A single piece of string makes up the entire bed, double-threaded in an open-weave fashion to increase airflow and give a better bounce. Each bed is coated in ultra-violet-stable rubberised paint which ensures long life and elastic flexibility.

Mr Trampoline trampolines have been the preferred choice in family homes for longer than any others – over 75 years in fact! They come in a range of sizes: Olympic size, family size and teeny-weeny for the littlies, inground, above ground and in-deck. Bespoke models can also be commissioned for tricky sites, delivering premium bounce and ultimate flight for years.

Personalize your trampoline

Start those garden plans and see how adding some bounce to your house can be valuable in many ways.

SERVICEABLE AREAS

Australia-wide

CONTACT

MrTrampoline
P 1300 631 130
info@mrtrampoline.com.au

Mr Trampoline

The post Bring on the backyard bounce this Summer appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
About Passive House https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/about-passive-house.html Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:39:45 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86903 Certified Passive House residential or commercial buildings involve a set of very high-performance standards to achieve both thermal…

The post About Passive House appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Certified Passive House residential or commercial buildings involve a set of very high-performance standards to achieve both thermal comfort and high levels of energy efficiency.

Originating in Germany in the 1980’s, the idea is to maintain comfortable internal temperatures without the need for excessive heating and cooling, thus decreasing the cost of energy usage for the life of the building.

Passive House is a voluntary building standard chosen for a variety of reasons such as a reduced carbon footprint, increased air quality, reduced noise and more. In many countries, organisations have now formed to further this building standard. In Australia this is the Australian Passivhaus Association.

‘Passive House’ or ‘Passivhaus’

When the German term ‘Passivhaus’ was translated into English, it became ‘Passive House’. This was also the name of the Australian Passive House Association (APHA) when it was established here in Australia in 2013, but in 2022, this name was changed to Australian Passivhaus Association (APA). In essence, both terms mean the same, but for international component certification, the term ‘Passive House’ is being used as this certification is done in Germany.

Australian Passivhaus Association

Australian Passivhaus Association Logo

The Australian Passivhaus Association (APA) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote the Passive House Standard in Australia, raise awareness, advocate its use, and provide education to the building industry.

APA’s vision is ‘that all Australians live and work in healthy, comfortable, low-energy, resilient buildings’. Paarhammer joined APA as a member already in 2016, and has 2 qualified Passivhaus Tradespeople on staff.

According to APA, the focus is on super insulated building envelopes, airtight and thermal-bridge-free construction, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and high-performing windows and doors. These window products should be used in a variety of sizes suitable for each different elevation to achieve solar heat gain in winter, but not let too much solar radiation into the building in summer. They also need to seal very well for airtightness.

The Association has a range of criteria which is used to test homes and buildings for certification. For instance, an airtightness of 0.6ACH50 or less is required for certification, which is less than 0.6 air changes occurring within an hour. Ordinary buildings often have up to 14 changes of air during the same time, all of it needing to be heated or cooled.

Other criteria for certification include indoor temperature, heating and cooling demand, humidity, and energy demand. Passivhaus certification is also location-specific, as Australia has a range of variable climates.

Passive House Component Certification

Passive House

The Clifton Hill Primary School featured above incorporates windows and doors from the Paarhammer Passive House Range, which achieved International Component Certification by the Passive House Institute in Darmstadt. This window range has been tested and approved based on its suitability for certified Passive Houses, thereby supporting the designer’s task of choosing high-quality components, and these windows and doors are made right here in Australia.

Thermally efficient buildings

Homes or commercial buildings that are thermally efficient offer a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment without the high temperature variations experienced in standard buildings. You can go a step further and have your residential or commercial building certified by an independent certifier to the Passive House/Passivhaus standard.

Ready to talk Passive House windows and doors? Contact us

The post About Passive House appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Elevate Your Wardrobe with Peka Accessories https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/elevate-your-wardrobe-with-peka-accessories.html Mon, 01 Sep 2025 23:43:14 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86923 In the world of modern living, where space is often at a premium, smart storage solutions have become…

The post Elevate Your Wardrobe with Peka Accessories appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
In the world of modern living, where space is often at a premium, smart storage solutions have become essential for maintaining both order and elegance in the home. Peka, a leader in precision-engineered storage systems, offers a refined collection of wardrobe accessories designed not just to organise, but to elevate the entire wardrobe experience. Each product combines Swiss-quality craftsmanship with sleek design, ensuring durability, practicality, and timeless appeal.

Peka Accessories

Among its standout innovations, the Lina trouser rack is a perfect example of space-saving functionality. With its smooth, pull-out mechanism, this accessory keeps trousers neatly aligned, wrinkle-free, and instantly accessible. Instead of piling clothes or struggling to locate a specific pair, the rack allows garments to glide effortlessly into view. This thoughtful design not only saves time in daily routines but also preserves the condition of fabrics—making it a favourite among those who value both convenience and care.

Equally effective in bringing order to wardrobe interiors is the hook rail. Minimalist in appearance yet highly versatile, it provides the ideal spot to store scarves, belts, handbags, or ties. Compact spaces in particular benefit from this accessory, as it maximises vertical storage without adding bulk. With items displayed neatly, accessories become easier to coordinate, reducing clutter and enhancing the overall visual harmony of the wardrobe.

Peka Accessories

For homeowners seeking multifunctional solutions, Peka’s Pesolo pull-out tray with integrated hooks delivers remarkable versatility. The tray is ideal for organising smaller essentials such as watches, wallets, or jewellery, keeping them within easy reach but discreetly tucked away. Beneath the tray, the cleverly positioned hooks add a second layer of storage, perfect for hanging items that are used frequently. This dual-purpose design highlights Peka’s commitment to blending innovation with everyday practicality.

Adding to the range of intelligent solutions, Peka also offers the Stepolo 1-Step and 2-Step stepladders—ingenious helpers for reaching high shelves and maximising wardrobe space. Sleek, lightweight, and easy to store, these stepladders provide stable, secure support without compromising on style. Whether retrieving seasonal clothing from a top shelf or accessing storage boxes, Stepolo ladders combine safety with elegance. When folded, they are slim enough to be tucked neatly inside a wardrobe or utility cupboard, making them an indispensable accessory for modern homes.

Peka Accessories

To complete the wardrobe system, the Peka shoe rack offers a smart, accessible way to keep footwear neatly arranged. Its pull-out design ensures every pair is visible and within reach, helping to maintain order while protecting shoes from scuffs or damage. Both practical and stylish, it turns footwear storage into a seamless extension of the wardrobe.

What truly distinguishes Peka accessories is their ability to transform a wardrobe into a personalised, serene space. Rather than being simple storage add-ons, they act as enhancers—bringing order, accessibility, and a touch of luxury to daily routines. For design-conscious homeowners, they represent not only functional solutions but also a long-term investment in maintaining a clutter-free and aesthetically pleasing home environment.

Peka Accessories
With Peka, wardrobes evolve beyond storage into carefully curated spaces where function meets sophistication. Each accessory reflects an attention to detail that makes organisation effortless and elevates the entire experience of dressing and living well.

Read more: https://www.nover.com.au/wardrobe-office

The post Elevate Your Wardrobe with Peka Accessories appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Malvern magic https://www.completehome.com.au/pools-spas/malvern-magic.html Mon, 01 Sep 2025 03:53:09 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86728 A distinctly different front and rear garden and pool area set this Melbourne bungalow renovation apart from the…

The post Malvern magic appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
A distinctly different front and rear garden and pool area set this Melbourne bungalow renovation apart from the rest

The team at KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions love working with designers and clients who challenge themselves to bring out the best in their homes. Case in point — this major renovation to a 1930s Malvern bungalow, which presented myriad interesting challenges, including a rear garden and pool area that required a completely different look and feel to the front garden.

In addition, a multi-car garage was to be housed under a concrete slab beneath the front garden. The client also insisted Australian bluestone pavers be installed over a waterproof membrane. Finally, a car lift platform required a low-profile tile with enough strength to handle vehicular traffic.

For the front garden, 40mm-thick Australian bluestone in an ashlar pattern was laid on paver supports to ensure the membrane was protected. This allows the tiles to be removed easily, and the membrane inspected or repaired if necessary. The car lift platform required thinner tiles, so 100 x 100mmx20mm granite cobbles were installed. The grey-coloured cobbles complement the bluestone and are glued directly to the car platform steel sub-base. An exfoliated finish ensures high slip resistance.

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions

The rear of the property required a completely different treatment. The client chose silver travertine tiles and pool coping boasting beautiful colour tones that complement the pool tile colour and outdoor furniture. The garden design, by Jane Jones Landscapes, showcases the house beautifully. Jane used advanced plant stock to give the project an instant established feel and connect it to the heritage tree-lined streetscape.

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions (KHD) offers a wide range of landscape engineering and natural stone products for domestic, commercial and local government projects. In business for more than two decades, KHD is well known for high-quality products and an ability to work with other industry professionals to achieve the best possible project and client outcomes.

Ken Hitchcock is a landscaping professional with more than 35 years of industry experience and is the director of KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions, which he started in 1999. Ken offers a full and complete landscape engineering product range to architects, designers and builders.

KHD is committed to promoting sustainable environmental practices by supplying Australian-made products where possible from suppliers with environmental management systems in place. These high standards have meant KHD is a preferred supplier to many award-winning landscape architects and design practices.

The KHD range has grown extensively over the past 20 years to meet the needs of the market and to keep up with design trends. The business provides a complete range of products and solutions for the design and construction industry including stone products, paver and deck supports, porcelain tiles, stormwater management, green walls, green roofs and soil stabilisation.

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions

KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions

At a Glance

Pool and landscape products supplied by: KHD Landscape Engineering Solutions
Landscape designed by: Jane Jones Landscapes
Coping: Silver travertine drop-face pool coping in rear garden
Paving: Silver travertine ashlar pattern paving in rear garden, bluestone ashlar pattern paving and paver supports (VersiPave) in front garden
Driveway: Black granite cobbles
Planter boxes: Drainage cell and Geofabric

For more information

KHD
A: 1279 Malvern Rd, Malvern Vic
P: 03 9822 2748 M: 0419 579 437

The post Malvern magic appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Canal Haus https://www.completehome.com.au/outdoors/canal-haus.html Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:15:03 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86920 Coastal calm, powered by CUTEK® Eco Photography Marnie Hawson Set along the Gold Coast’s pristine canals, this award-winning…

The post Canal Haus appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Coastal calm, powered by CUTEK® Eco

Photography Marnie Hawson

Set along the Gold Coast’s pristine canals, this award-winning residence — Canal Haus — is a bold, sculptural response to subtropical living. Designed by Maxa Design and honoured at the 2023 Design Matters National Awards, the home balances industrial elements with warmth, connection and sustainability.

Timber was a central feature of the build, used extensively to soften concrete and steel and to create a sense of natural calm throughout. But in such a demanding coastal environment, protecting that timber required a solution that was both high performance and aesthetically flexible. That’s where CUTEK® Eco came in.

Canal Haus

Chosen for its sustainability credentials and proven performance, CUTEK® Eco penetrates deep into timber, protecting it from within — resisting moisture, minimising movement and helping it withstand the harsh Queensland climate. For this project, the oil was tinted with a custom Colourtone created by CUTEK®, designed specifically to complement the home’s palette and architectural intent. The result is a natural, long-lasting finish that enhances grain clarity while meeting the exacting standards of both designer and client.

CUTEK’s unique approach — protecting timber at a cellular level rather than forming a film — means the timber can weather gracefully or be easily refreshed, aligning perfectly with the home’s ethos of enduring, low-maintenance beauty

Canal Haus is more than a statement in design. It’s a showcase of what happens when innovative materials, sustainable thinking, and architectural ambition come together — and CUTEK® is proud to have played a part.

Canal Haus

Canal Haus

Project details

Design Maxa Design
Builder SJG Builders
Product CUTEK® Eco + Custom Colourtone created by CUTEK®

The post Canal Haus appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Echoes of Country https://www.completehome.com.au/new-homes/echoes-of-country.html Sun, 31 Aug 2025 23:38:41 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86782 In a location of proud heritage, this sustainable home is a winner Words Carrol Baker Photography Jade Cantwell…

The post Echoes of Country appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
In a location of proud heritage, this sustainable home is a winner

Words Carrol Baker
Photography Jade Cantwell

Sitting on the cosy deck of this eco-friendly home, there is hardly a breath of wind. It’s quiet and calm. There are views to the national park beyond and agricultural buildings in the distance. Looking out at the leafy landscape, you can almost imagine the heady excitement of those seeking their fortune in the 1850s. The town of Chewton was one of the earliest towns established during the Gold Rush era. Some buildings in the district still remain from the Gold Rush heyday and there are also deep indigenous roots in the region.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom dwelling is home to young professionals James and Zara
and their greyhound Nel. “It was inspired by the local vernacular architecture, particularly the humble agricultural buildings that define the central Victorian landscape,” says designer David Noordhoff.

Pyrenees, Vic

The couple relocated from suburban Melbourne. “They sought a place to lay down roots and establish themselves in a more tranquil environment,” shares David. The home has open-plan living and a dedicated workspace for James. The design and layout connect living spaces to the leafy natural landscape.

During planning and design, David says there was one main objective: “Ultimately, the goal was to establish a welcoming environment that encourages relaxation and fosters connections with both nature and family life.” According to David, it was also important to the homeowners that their house integrate harmoniously with its surrounding narrative. “They favoured local materials and architectural styles that honoured the area’s agricultural heritage,” he explains.

Pyrenees, Vic

Materials such as spotted gum cladding and Colorbond steel in Woodland Grey were used to integrate the home into its local environment, as well as complying with the bushfire attack level rating (BAL 29).

The project did come with its share of challenges, including historical protection regulations that weighed in on the design process, and with COVID-19, there were also material shortages
during construction.

David notes the couple also sought a design that would provide comfortable living conditions year-round, minimising energy costs. “Additionally, addressing noise from the road adjacent to the property was crucial to creating a tranquil living environment,” he adds.

By today’s standards, this house was constructed with a modest budget. Thanks to thoughtful measured design as well as materiality, it delivers on functionality, form and aesthetics. Inspired by nature’s palette of warm earthy tones, it’s understated with a subtle charm. This is a family dwelling with design flexibility to allow it to evolve over time, as needs change.

Pyrenees, Vic

David’s favourite part of the space is the window seat next to the fireplace, a cosy nook that invites you to curl up on a chilly winter day with a coffee. The expansive windows connect you to the exterior landscape. “This intimate corner embodies the spirit of the home, offering a warm and inviting retreat where you can relax and appreciate nature throughout the seasons,” he says.

As the long hot days of summer flow into the cooler autumn and winter months, temperatures begin to fall, sometimes dramatically. It is an area of temperature extremes, with chilly winters and scorching summers. The home is responsive to its environment. The pitched roof lines capture the warming winter sun’s rays and offer cool respite from the hot summer sun.

Pyrenees, Vic

David explains these construction techniques enhance insulation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. “This approach not only improves energy efficiency, but also ensures a comfortable living environment despite the extreme climate,” he notes.

The project was a meeting of minds between homeowners, builder and architect. “I collaborated extensively with James and Zara to ensure their vision and needs remained at the forefront of the design,” says David. “VR Builders provided valuable advice and guidance, helping to keep the project on budget while ensuring it was practical and straightforward to construct.”

Pyrenees, Vic

Unlike most projects, the architect actually had an opportunity to test drive the house. His family lived in the completed home for three months, housesitting for the owners while they went overseas. “Living in the space allowed me to ‘road test’ the design in real life, providing valuable insights and enjoyable experiences,” David says. “This experience not only deepened my connection to the project, but also created lasting memories for my family as we cherished our time in this special place.”

Details

House: Pyrenees
Location: Chewton, Victoria

Project Team

Designer Freeman Group Architects, David Noordhoff
Builder VR Builders

Fixtures & Fittings
Window supplier Rylock

The post Echoes of Country appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
A Heritage Treasure Reimagined https://www.completehome.com.au/new-homes/a-heritage-treasure-reimagined.html Sun, 31 Aug 2025 23:23:49 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=86338 Old-world charm meets modern grandeur Positioned in a charming streetscape, in the leafy suburb of Hawthorn, Victoria, this…

The post A Heritage Treasure Reimagined appeared first on Completehome.

]]>
Old-world charm meets modern grandeur

Positioned in a charming streetscape, in the leafy suburb of Hawthorn, Victoria, this heritage home has been lovingly restored and thoughtfully extended to merge old-world charm with contemporary finesse. The soft grey façade, complemented by crisp white trim, embodies timeless elegance, while the English-tiled verandah and bluestone pathway welcome guests to a striking leadlight entry door—a testament to the home’s rich past.

Hedger Constructions

Stepping inside, the journey through history begins with meticulously retained skirting and architraves that pay homage to the home’s architectural roots. Wide American oak floorboards guide you down the hallway, where period charm seamlessly transitions into modern grandeur.

In this considered renovation, the home embraces modern living with a reimagined open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area bathed in natural light. Offering a perfect balance of warmth and sophistication, feature stone benchtops grace the expansive kitchen island, extending their refined aesthetic into the adjoining laundry and pantry. Sleek cabinetry, state-of-the-art appliances, and carefully curated feature lighting ensure this space is as functional as it is beautiful.

Designed for effortless entertaining, the open plan space extends to a covered outdoor area, perfect for gatherings with family and friends. Integrated air conditioning, with discreet linear slot venting, ensures year-round comfort without compromising aesthetics.

The ground floor master suite is a true retreat, where the existing fireplace has been transformed with a stunning stone surround and restored black timber mantle. A walk-in robe and elegant ensuite complete this haven of comfort and style. A private parents’ lounge provides an additional escape, boasting a refurbished original timber fireplace adorned with striking black marble corbels and a black feature-tiled hearth—an exquisite nod to the home’s heritage.

Hedger Constructions

Hedger Constructions

The second bathroom on the ground floor continues the theme of understated luxury, with neutral grey floor-to-ceiling tiles, a full decadent bath, and a warm timber vanity topped with pristine white stone. Every detail has been considered to create an inviting and tranquil space.

Hedger Constructions

Hedger Constructions

Ascending the American oak staircase, the upper level unfolds into a spacious entertainment and study zone—a warm and welcoming enclave ideal for relaxation. Two generously sized bedrooms, adorned with plush carpeting and floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, offer sanctuary, while expansive picture and highlight windows flood the space with natural light.

Hedger Constructions

Hedger Constructions

Externally, the modern rear extension, a striking contrast to the classic front façade, stands on a render-brick base, crowned with sleek black charred timber cladding. This harmonious blend of old and new embodies the essence of contemporary heritage renovation – where history is honoured and modernity embraced, creating a home that is both timeless and forward-thinking.

Hedger Constructions

This remarkable residence is more than just a renovation – it’s a transformation that celebrates craftsmanship, character, and contemporary luxury in equal measure. A true masterpiece of heritage reimagined, where classic elegance meets modern sophistication.

Photography Credits: Mango Media

For more information

Hedger Constructions

The post A Heritage Treasure Reimagined appeared first on Completehome.

]]>