Balancing refined aesthetics with exceptional functionality, the design embraces a restrained material palette, beautifully integrated storage and premium appliances to create a space that feels effortlessly luxurious while supporting everyday living.

Designed Around the Way the Family Lives

From the outset, homeowner Angeline envisioned a kitchen that would feel calm, timeless and deeply connected to the rest of the home. Rather than following trends, the design focused on enduring materials, generous proportions and thoughtful details that would remain beautiful for years to come.

“I love it,” said Angeline. “It flows through the house beautifully. Everything is very organic, and the kitchen feels very Zen.”

Polyurethane shaker cabinetry is paired with contemporary Woodmatt overhead cabinetry, while Dekton Orix benchtops and splashbacks introduce a soft, stone-like texture that brings warmth and understated sophistication to the space. Extending the same finishes into the butler’s pantry and laundry creates a seamless sense of continuity throughout the home.

Effortless Functionality, Beautifully Resolved

Although the kitchen presents a clean, minimalist aesthetic, every detail has been carefully considered to make daily life easier.

Anthony reconfigured the layout to create a larger island with increased circulation, additional bench space behind the sink and extensive drawer storage tailored to the family’s lifestyle. Large plate drawers, integrated appliance storage and concealed pantry storage ensure the kitchen remains beautifully uncluttered, while premium Belling appliances and a discreet Billi tap make cooking and entertaining effortless.

One feature quickly became a favourite.

“I do love these cupboards,” said Angeline.

The Blum AVENTOS overhead cabinetry, fitted with SERVO-DRIVE electrical motion technology, opens effortlessly with a light touch, delivering seamless access while preserving the kitchen’s clean architectural lines. It’s one of many thoughtful details that quietly elevates the experience of using the space every day.

“The little details make such a difference,” Angeline added. “Everything is easy to maintain, and because the colours are so organic, it’s easy to change the styling over time.”

The Jewel Box Butler’s Pantry

Behind the main kitchen, a concealed butler’s pantry provides a dedicated preparation and clean-up zone that allows the entertaining space to remain effortlessly pristine.

Originally little more than a small cupboard, the pantry was expanded into a fully functional room complete with generous storage, dedicated appliance space, additional preparation benches and a concealed Billi tap.

“We opened the pantry up so you can actually walk in,” said Angeline. “Now everything can stay in there, which keeps the main kitchen beautifully neat.”

For Anthony, the butler’s pantry became one of the defining features of the project.

“It really is a jewel box. It’s a space that draws you in while allowing the main kitchen to remain beautifully calm and uncluttered.”

A Kitchen Designed to Endure

Every design decision was guided by longevity, ensuring the kitchen feels as relevant in years to come as it does today.

“It’s got a lovely organic feel,” said Anthony. “Even though it’s a new home, everything feels settled, timeless and as though it’s always belonged there.”

The result is a sophisticated family kitchen where timeless materials, intelligent storage and refined detailing come together in perfect balance. Designed around the way the family lives today, it is a space created to be enjoyed for decades to come.

About Nobby Kitchens

For more than 85 years, Nobby Kitchens has been helping Australian families create bespoke kitchens tailored to the way they live. From concept to completion, Nobby manages every stage of the renovation journey, including design, manufacturing, project management and installation.

Visit one of Nobby Kitchens’ five award-winning showrooms across Sydney and Newcastle to explore premium appliances, innovative storage solutions and an extensive range of materials, finishes and colours. Nobby also offers a complimentary in-home design consultation, including a personalised 3D kitchen design and fixed-price quotation with all trades included.

To learn more or book a free design appointment, visit nobbykitchens.com.au or call 1800 662 297.

The post Chifley Kitchen Renovation by Nobby Kitchens Blends Organic Design with Everyday Luxury appeared first on Completehome.

With property priorities changing, construction costs still under pressure, and families spending more time improving the way they live at home, the decision deserves more than a quick yes or no.

So, is 2026 a smart year to invest in a pool?

For many homeowners, the timing may be better than they realise.

The Backyard Has Become More Important Than Ever

Australian backyards are no longer just outdoor spaces. They have become places to exercise, entertain, relax and reconnect with family.

The modern swimming pool is no longer seen only as a luxury feature for large homes. Today, it is often the centrepiece of a lifestyle-focused outdoor area.

Whether you are planning a custom concrete pool, a compact plunge pool or a resort-style family pool, homeowners are increasingly choosing outdoor spaces that improve everyday living, not just the appearance of the property.

A pool can change the way the home is used.

It can turn unused lawn into a destination. It can bring people outside. It can make the backyard feel like another room of the home.

Pools and Property Appeal

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether a pool adds value to a property.

Every suburb, block and buyer is different, so no single answer applies to every home. However, a well-designed pool can significantly improve the way a property is perceived, especially in warmer Australian climates where outdoor living matters.

Buyers are not just looking at bedrooms and floor plans. They are imagining lifestyle.

A thoughtfully integrated pool, paired with landscaping, shade, outdoor dining and clear sightlines from the home, can create a stronger emotional response during an inspection. It can also help a property feel complete.

If you are still comparing pool options, the types of pools guide is a useful place to understand how concrete, plunge, semi-inground and above-ground options may suit different homes.

Construction Costs Continue to Rise

One of the strongest reasons homeowners are thinking seriously about 2026 is the cost of construction.

Labour, materials, transport, engineering and compliance requirements have all placed pressure on building costs across Australia. While price growth can slow, construction costs rarely move backwards in a meaningful way.

For homeowners already planning to build a pool within the next one to three years, delaying may not necessarily create savings.

In many cases, the smarter move is to start planning earlier, understand the site properly and secure a clearer idea of budget before demand increases again.

Blue Haven’s pool package deals can also help homeowners compare inclusions, understand pricing and make faster decisions with less guesswork.

Wellness is Driving Pool Ownership

One of the biggest changes in pool ownership is the focus on health and wellbeing.

A pool is no longer only for summer weekends. More homeowners are designing pools for everyday use, including swimming, low-impact movement, relaxation, recovery and time away from screens.

Modern pool features can support this shift, including mineral water systems, heating, hydrotherapy jets, relaxation ledges and swim zones.

The result is a backyard that feels more like a private wellness space.

For inspiration, Blue Haven’s case studies show how different pool designs can support family life, entertaining and calm outdoor living.

Planning Early Creates Better Outcomes

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting until spring or summer to begin planning.

By then, many builders, trades and suppliers are already dealing with peak-season demand. Council approvals, site checks, engineering, access planning and design decisions can also take longer than expected.

Starting earlier gives you more control.

It allows time to consider site conditions, backyard access, slope, drainage, fencing, landscaping, sun orientation and how the pool will connect with the home.

If you are not sure whether your backyard is suitable, this guide on checking if your backyard is ready for a pool can help you think through the right questions before you commit.

Is 2026 the Right Time to Buil a Pool?

If a pool is already part of your future plan, 2026 presents a strong opportunity to start the conversation.

Outdoor living remains important. Wellness at home continues to grow. Construction costs are unlikely to return to old levels. And modern pool designs are more flexible, efficient and lifestyle-focused than ever before.

The real question is not simply, “Should I build a pool?”

It is: “Do I want to start creating a better lifestyle at home now?” For many Australian families, the answer is becoming clearer. A pool is no longer just a place to swim.

It is a place to live.

Ready to Start Planning?

If you are considering a pool in 2026, start with the right advice. Explore pool design flipbooks, compare pool package deals or speak with a Blue Haven pool specialist to understand what is possible for your backyard.

The post Should I Build a Pool in 2026? What Australian Homeowners Should Know appeared first on Completehome.

As more Australians look for window furnishings that combine style, energy efficiency and ease of use, a new generation of blockout solutions is changing expectations.

One of the latest innovations is the GlideShade Total Blockout Honeycomb Blind from Tuiss Blinds Online, a design that takes a fresh approach to both installation and everyday living.

A different way to control light

Unlike conventional blinds that lift vertically, GlideShade moves horizontally within a slim integrated frame. The side-to-side motion offers an intuitive way to adjust light and privacy while maintaining a clean, streamlined appearance.

The fully framed design also helps minimise light entering around the edges of the window, creating the darker environment many homeowners are looking for in bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms or spaces used by shift workers during the day.

Rather than relying solely on fabric performance, the surrounding frame works alongside light-blocking edge strips to reduce unwanted light leakage and create more consistent coverage across the entire window.

Designed to simplify installation

One of the standout features is its installation method. Instead of requiring drilling or permanent fixtures, the frame is assembled before being gently positioned within the window recess, making it an appealing option for renters, renovators or anyone looking for a less invasive installation.

With a minimum recess depth of just 35mm, the system is also suitable for a wider variety of window types, including shallower recesses where some blockout solutions may not be practical.

More than just light control

While effective light blocking is often the primary goal, honeycomb blinds also offer additional benefits throughout the year.

The cellular structure traps pockets of air within the fabric, helping to insulate windows against changing outdoor temperatures. This can assist in maintaining a more comfortable indoor environment while potentially reducing reliance on heating and cooling.

Combined with its cordless operation, the design also offers a clean aesthetic and added peace of mind for households with young children or pets.

A practical solution for modern homes

GlideShade has been designed with a range of lifestyles in mind, making it particularly well suited to:

• Renters seeking a no-drill window furnishing
• Busy households wanting a straightforward installation
• Family homes looking for cordless operation
• Anyone who appreciates clean, minimalist design

Available in a curated collection of neutral colours and soft tones, the range complements both contemporary and classic interiors.

Part of a growing blockout collection

GlideShade joins Tuiss Blinds Online’s broader Total Blockout collection, which includes honeycomb blinds, roller blinds and curtains.

Each option offers a different combination of style, insulation, installation method and light control, allowing homeowners to choose a solution that best suits their space and lifestyle.

For those seeking an easy-to-install window furnishing that delivers effective light control, thermal performance and contemporary design, GlideShade Honeycomb Blinds offer a thoughtful alternative to more traditional blockout systems.

Learn more about GlideShade Honeycomb Blinds and the wider Total Blockout collection at Tuiss Blinds Online.

The post An innovative new way to block light appeared first on Completehome.

Today though, the trend is beginning to soften.

Landscape designers are moving towards gardens that feel more natural, more inviting and more connected to the environment around them. Instead of rigid corners and sharp edges, we’re seeing flowing pathways, curved garden beds, circular lawns and organic planting layouts becoming the centrepiece of Australian backyards.

It’s a subtle change, but one that can completely transform the way a garden looks and feels.

Curves naturally guide your eye through a landscape. Rather than drawing your attention from one point to another in a straight line, they encourage you to slow down and take in the entire space. A gently winding path invites you to explore, while a curved garden bed softens the transition between lawn, planting and entertaining areas.

The result is a garden that feels less formal and more relaxed.

One of the biggest advantages of incorporating curves into a landscape is that they work in almost any style of garden. Whether it’s a contemporary courtyard, a coastal retreat, a native landscape or a traditional family backyard, flowing lines help create a sense of balance without overwhelming the space.

Curves can also make smaller gardens appear larger. Instead of seeing every corner at once, your eye follows the shape of the garden, creating a feeling of depth and discovery. It’s a design technique landscape professionals have been using for years, and one that’s becoming increasingly popular with homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor space.

Of course, bringing those flowing curves to life requires products that are just as adaptable as the designs themselves.

Steel garden edging has become a favourite among landscape designers because it combines clean definition with the flexibility to create sweeping curves, gentle bends and flowing garden beds without sacrificing strength or durability.

At ShapeScaper, our modular steel edging is manufactured in standard 2400mm lengths, with the most popular profile heights easily curved by hand on site during installation. This allows landscapers to create everything from gentle sweeping curves and winding pathways to circular lawns, rounded garden beds and feature trees with ease, giving designers the freedom to move away from rigid geometric layouts without the need for complex installation techniques.

Most projects can be achieved using our standard modular system alone. However, every now and then a project comes along that pushes the boundaries. A particularly tight radius, an unusual design or a feature that simply can’t be achieved by hand, this may call for something custom. Because we design and manufacture here in Australia, we’re able to fabricate project-specific solutions when required, helping landscape contractors and designers bring even the most ambitious ideas to life.

Curves aren’t just changing the shape of garden beds either. They’re influencing the way entire outdoor spaces are designed. Circular planter rings create striking focal points around feature trees, sweeping edging defines entertaining zones without hard boundaries, and gentle curves help connect different parts of the landscape into one cohesive design.

Perhaps that’s why curved landscapes feel so timeless.

Unlike many garden trends that come and go, curves are inspired by nature itself. Rivers don’t flow in straight lines, trees don’t grow in perfect squares and rolling hills aren’t made up of right angles. By borrowing those natural forms, a garden feels more settled, more balanced and more comfortable to spend time in.

The best part is that introducing curves doesn’t necessarily require a complete garden makeover. Sometimes a single curved garden bed, a flowing pathway or a circular planter is enough to soften an entire outdoor space and create a completely different feel.

Straight lines will always have their place in landscape design. But as Australian gardens continue to evolve, it’s the softer, flowing lines that are shaping the outdoor spaces people love spending time in.

Because sometimes the biggest transformation doesn’t come from adding more to a garden.

It comes from changing the lines that tie it all together.

Last articles:

Put a Ring on It

Design Diversity

The post Have Straight Lines Had Their Moment? Why Curves Are Shaping Modern Gardens appeared first on Completehome.

There may also be specific requirements for the airtightness of the building envelope for energy efficiency. Different construction methods of the building, e.g. solid construction, lightweight construction, timber framing, etc. require different approaches to window and door installation.

One of the most important parts of window installation is flashing to protect against water ingress which can result in water damage, rot and mould. While windows are tested for water ingress and wind load, very little can be done by the window supplier to prepare windows to be installed in any possible building envelope. Flashing requirements need to consider variations in climate, geographic conditions, exposure of the window to the elements, the type of construction and other design requirements.

Performance Requirements

The Building Code of Australia (BCA) under the National Construction Code (NCC) provides performance requirements which are covered under AS2047 and AS1288. The Australian Glass and Windows Association (AGWA) provides guides to ‘Residential Window Installation’ and to ‘Window and Door Fixing’. The below information is from the AGWA Window Installation Guide:

There are three types of flashing: Sill, Jamb and Head. Flashing must be installed from bottom to top, in the following order, so that each layer overlaps the one below:

1. Sill flashing
2. Jamb Flashing
3. Head Flashing

The sarking above the window overlaps the head flashing. Overlap is vital to ensure that, at each transition, water is directed onto the element below. Drainage must be provided below the window or door, so that any water captured has the ability to escape to the outside of the wall.

Special consideration needs to be given to window and door systems designed specifically for acoustics and energy efficiency.

Passive House

In Europe and especially in Passive Houses, tapes are used to seal cavities around windows. The below image is from the Institute for Window Technic in Rosenheim, which also tests products for Passivhaus certification:

Window sills are used to flash the water away from the structure and the window. While installation requirements in Central Europe are extremely stringent, here in Australia there is probably lots of room for improvement. Especially with buildings becoming more airtight, building up more negative pressure inside, hence requiring better practises.

Water should never be allowed to penetrate from the outer skin of the building envelope to the inside. Professional window installation is your insurance against leaking windows.

Want to talk Windows and Doors: Contact us

The post Window Installation & Flashing by Paarhammer appeared first on Completehome.

Pre-Primed Weathertex

Painting is Essential

If you’ve chosen pre-primed weatherboards or wall panels for your project, here’s what you absolutely need to know.

The 60-Day Rule You Can’t Ignore

Weathertex factory primer is designed to be painted within 60 days of installation.

Why is this timeline so important? The factory primer is designed as a basecoat system, not a final finish. Beyond the 60-day window, the primer’s ability to bond effectively with topcoat paints begins to deteriorate. This can lead to:

• Poor paint adhesion
• Premature paint failure
• Warranty may be voided

To prepare your pre-primed product surface for painting, we suggest cleaning the board with a soft broom or a soft, lint-free cloth and washing it down with sugar soap to remove salt, dust, dirt, and grease. Do not vigorously scrub the surface! Wash down with fresh water and dry the  surface with one final wipe using a soft, dry, lint-free cloth in the direction of the paint flow.

Choosing the Right Paint System

The good news is that pre-primed Weathertex products have proven durability of 50 years in the harshest climate zones. While there is no restriction on the vast array of colours to paint your home, it’s important to understand the effect paint colours can have on the performance of construction products. Our exterior cladding is compatible with a wide range of paint systems. Your primed surface will accept:

• Water-based exterior paints: Environmentally friendly and easy to clean up
• Solvent-based exterior paint: Traditional option with excellent durability

Remember!

When applying your topcoat. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your chosen paint system.

• Apply two full coats as a minimum requirement
• Ensure proper surface preparation before painting
• Consider weather conditions during application
• Allow adequate drying time between coats

Adhesion testing may be required to ensure the paint is adhering to the primer. We recommend using an offcut to ensure the finish surface is not affected.

The Natural Range

For those who prefer a more natural, weathered aesthetic, Weathertex Natural Range products offer a completely different approach. When it comes to finishing your Weathertex Natural products, you have three distinct options, each offering different aesthetic outcomes and maintenance requirements.

Check out our Natural finish guide flyer! and our “How to maintain Weatherboards” Blog

Option 1: Water-Based Deck Staining

For those who want colour control while maintaining the natural timber feel, water-based deck staining is an excellent choice.

Application Process:

Clean the Weathertex Natural products prior to staining using an oxalic-based deck cleaner using a soft broom and hose. DO NOT PRESSURE WASH the product as it may affect the overlay. Let the natural product dry completely prior to staining.

• Minimum 2-3 coats: are essential for proper coverage
• Brush application is critical: this ensures the stain penetrates properly into the timber’s textured surface

Apply your first coat, then perform cutting in to avoid unsightly dry-line borders. Always follow the stain manufacturer’s specific application instructions

Pro Tip: Consider letting your Weathertex Natural lighten naturally before staining. This pre-weathering can create unique colour results that aren’t achievable with fresh timber.

• Colour Selection: Staining manufacturers offer an extensive range of colours, but here’s what you must do: always perform a test sample first. This isn’t optional – it’s your insurance policy for colour expectations and performance.

Option 2: Controlled Erosion Staining

This specialised staining system offers a unique approach to timber protection while allowing for natural character development over time. The application follows the manufacturer’s specific instructions, and like traditional staining, you can pre-weather the timber for different colour outcomes. The same rule applies here: test samples are non-negotiable before committing to your entire installation and ensure the natural has been cleaned and completely dry before application.

Option 3: Natural Weathering (The Uncoated Approach)

Perhaps the most distinctive characteristic of Weathertex Natural Range is its ability to weather beautifully without any coating at all.

Understanding Natural Weathering

What Happens Over Time: When left uncoated with consistent sun ( UV) exposure, your Weathertex Natural will undergo a beautiful transformation. The timber naturally lightens and develops that sought-after “grey off” appearance, like raw hardwood weathering.

Factors Affecting Weathering:

• UV intensity: More sun means faster colour change
• Moisture exposure: Affects the rate and evenness of weathering
• Consistency of exposure: This is crucial for even results e.g eaves, trees ect limit exposure and will affect fading rates
• Timber species mix: Try to purchase all of the natural product at the same time where possible

Weathertex products offer excellent exterior cladding solutions, but success depends on understanding and following the specific requirements for each product type. Pre-primed products offer colour flexibility with painting obligations, while Natural Range products provide beauty that improves with age.

Before starting your project, always consult the latest Weathertex installation manuals and consider consulting with painting professionals to ensure the best results.

For detailed painting specifications and installation guidance, check our installation manuals and painting and staining tab on our website for supplier tech sheets that have been tested on Weathertex.

Please note Weathertex does not cover the coating itself. We recommend contacting the coating manufacturer for any applicable coating warranties and conditions.

To Learn more about the Natural range, visit our Natural Range: staining and maintaining blog

The post Does Weathertex need to be painted? appeared first on Completehome.

In crafting a space, every product is instrumental in the experience, and when it comes to fireplaces this is something that Castworks understands well.

For over 30, we have been focused on developing our portfolio deliberately, rather than following current fads. We now feature names such as the highly rated Morsø cast-iron indoor and outdoor fires, ADF fires with their signature flue damper, stylish Austroflamm fires, award winning Hergóm fires, and wood-burning stoves, and the latest electric fireplaces by Evonic.

As a company we are always in the pursuit of products that differentiate themselves in the market. We aim to introduce brands to Australia that are renowned in Europe for their design, style, and quality, offering something distinctive. Through global travel and enduring partnerships, we provide local architects and designers with access to unique products not typically available in this area.

For design-led architectural homes

Whether included in a new build or a renovation, Castworks’ fireplaces often become the main attraction. This is because many of our fireplaces are designed as feature elements. They are places where homeowners come together on weekends and during gatherings, rather than merely serving as a heat source. They’re not an impulse buy. They are chosen because they fit the architecture, the interior design, and the homeowner’s lifestyle preferences.

The beauty of cast-iron

Cast iron fireplaces have become a major part of Castworks’ collection, a material that is less common for fireplaces in Australia compared to other countries. One of the benefits of cast iron is its malleability. If you look at Scandinavian or Danish-inspired designs, you’ll often notice softer curves and more sculptural shapes that are simply not possible with other materials.

This versatility enables brands like Hergóm and Morsø to craft these unique architectural pieces that serve as both heating solutions and design elements. Additionally, cast iron offers practical advantages. Its radiant heat properties allow fireplaces to function efficiently without the need for fans, resulting in a quieter and more genuine heating experience. The material also proves advantageous for outdoor fireplaces. Cast iron is among the finest cooking materials available, as it absorbs and retains heat remarkably well.

What began as a modest company focused on selling wood fires has transformed into a well-regarded importer and distributor of high-quality home heating products throughout Australia. Thanks to its partnerships with top global manufacturers, Castworks offers decades of expertise for both architects and homeowners, ensuring that every product brought into Australia complies with local testing and certification standards.

For more information

If you can’t find what you are looking for visit us at www.castworks.com.au we have established strong partnerships with renowned global manufacturers from Denmark, Austria, Spain and Portugal. These collaborations, combined with our local expertise, allow us to offer a diverse range of high-quality heating solutions.

The post The European fireplaces transforming Australian homes appeared first on Completehome.

Featuring custom shaker cabinetry, integrated appliances, a hidden appliance cabinet and a generous island bench, the renovation perfectly balances timeless style with everyday functionality.

Transforming The Heart Of The Home

When Emily purchased her Newtown home, the kitchen was far from the welcoming entertaining space she envisioned. Located at one end of the house and disconnected from the main living areas, the existing kitchen felt small, dated and impractical for modern family living.

Working alongside Anthony from Nobby Kitchens, Emily set out to create a kitchen that would become the true heart of the home. The result is a stunning open-plan space that combines timeless design, clever storage solutions and seamless functionality.

“I absolutely love it. I couldn’t be happier with it,” says Emily.

One of the biggest changes to the renovation was opening up the space and repositioning the kitchen to better connect with the rest of the home. What was once a cramped and isolated room is now a bright and welcoming hub where family and friends naturally gather.

At the centre of the design sits a generous island bench finished in a beautiful white stone with subtle grey veining. Offering ample preparation space, casual seating and room for entertaining, the island quickly became Emily’s favourite feature.

“Love having the island, which was my number one thing,” she says. “Being able to sit and have my wine and interact with members of the family whilst we’re cooking and all gathering in here.”

A Timeless Colour Palette

A standout feature of the kitchen is the elegant shaker-style cabinetry, finished in a custom grey-green polyurethane paint. Soft and sophisticated, the colour introduces warmth and character while remaining timeless and versatile.

Complementing the cabinetry are brushed gold handles and statement pendant lights, adding a touch of luxury without overwhelming the space.
“It’s a beautiful colour,” says Anthony. “A grey green and it’s just so beautiful. It’s soft, but it still makes a mark.”

Behind the cabinetry, a herringbone-patterned splashback introduces texture and visual interest, creating a subtle focal point that ties the entire palette together.

Seamless Integration And Smart Storage

While the kitchen is undeniably beautiful, functionality was equally important throughout the design process.

To maintain clean lines and a furniture-like appearance, Anthony incorporated an integrated refrigerator, integrated freezer drawer and a fully integrated Kleenmaid dishwasher. The result is a streamlined aesthetic where appliances blend effortlessly into the surrounding joinery.

The kitchen also features extensive storage, with deep drawers and thoughtfully designed cabinetry ensuring everything has its place.

“It’s a huge amount of storage space,” says Emily. “Big, deep cupboards everywhere.”

A built-in wine fridge has also been seamlessly incorporated into the island, making entertaining effortless while adding another premium feature to the design.

The Hidden Appliance Cabinet

One of the most practical elements of the renovation is the concealed appliance cabinet, designed to keep everyday essentials organised and benchtops clutter free.
Featuring a stone work surface, integrated lighting and a timber-lined interior, the cabinet provides a dedicated space for small appliances such as the coffee machine, toaster and blender.

“This is the secret cupboard I wanted, and everyone needs it in their life,” says Emily.

The appliance cabinet allows the kitchen to function as a hardworking family space during the day while effortlessly transforming into an elegant entertaining area when guests arrive.

A Kitchen Designed Around Lifestyle

Every detail of Emily’s kitchen was designed to support the way she lives. From the spacious island and integrated appliances to the warm colour palette and hidden storage solutions, the finished result feels both luxurious and highly practical.

“It’s literally the render that you did but just brought to life and I love it,” says Emily.

Today, the kitchen has become the social centre of the home, a space where cooking, entertaining and everyday life come together seamlessly.

“Everyone who comes in just loves it.”

About Nobby Kitchens

For more than 85 years, Nobby Kitchens has been helping Australian families create beautiful kitchens tailored to the way they live. From concept to completion, Nobby Kitchens manages every stage of the renovation process, including design, manufacturing, project management and installation.

Homeowners can visit one of Nobby Kitchens’ five showrooms across Sydney and Newcastle to explore the latest kitchen designs, premium appliances, innovative storage solutions and an extensive range of benchtops, colours and finishes. Nobby also offers a free in-home design appointment, where one of their award winning designers creates a personalised 3D kitchen design and provides a fixed-price quotation including all trades.

To learn more or book a free design appointment, visit nobbykitchens.com.au or call 1800 662 297.

The post Newtown Kitchen Renovation By Nobby Kitchens Creates The Perfect Entertaining Space appeared first on Completehome.

Landscape Queensland Construction Excellence Awards Highly Commended

In the serene rural locality of Doonan on the Sunshine Coast nestles a home and garden so connected to the natural world, it’s as if Mother Nature herself guided the designer’s hand, which is precisely the case, according to Nature Zone Landscaping’s Jason Pennell.

“I designed this rural landscape in close collaboration with nature,” he says. “I believe that a landscape already knows what it wants to become and it’s my role to listen, observe and then pull all the pieces together to shape what nature intended.”

Of course, listening to the homeowners’ needs and wants is just as important, but in this instance, Jason says there was no definitive design brief. Instead, they gave him a list of requirements, which included ample car-parking for family members, an outdoor kitchen and entertainment space, a cat run, and, outside the home office, a private, enveloping tropical-style garden.

The scope of works also ran the gamut from building a driveway, steps, pathways and fencing to the creation of something very special — a natural pond. This involved finding just the right spot, given the site’s steep slope, along with constructing three waterfalls, biological wetland filters, two jetties, linking boardwalks and landings.

“The overall design was loosely based on the homeowners’ birthplace, which is the Puglia region of south-east Italy. Inspiration was drawn from the white cliffs and sandy beaches of Gargano, the region’s dense forests and mountainous terrain, and the Murgia plateau with its sparse and rocky elevated plains,” says Jason.

“The plants are mainly fauna-attracting natives, such as the grass trees, although a few hardy exotics were interwoven, such as the mature olive trees we installed as an ode to the beauty of the Puglia region.

“The plant palette changes as you move through the different zones, giving each a distinctive sense of place while the swathes of native ornamental grasses add movement when caught by the breeze.”

The hardscaping materials were chosen with as much care as the plants to enhance the natural bush ambience. This includes the sustainably-sourced Australian mixed hardwood decking, flamed basalt-like stepping stones that sail through a sea of blue metal (natural stone) gravel, and the monolithic granite “spiral” staircase in the backyard.

This engaging project, which received a Highly Commended in the Residential $400,000 Plus category in the 2025 Landscape Queensland Construction Excellence Awards, holds a very special place in Jason’s heart.

“The most magical thing about this project is that the landscape does not look like it was created by human hands. Rather, it’s as if nature carved it into existence over many millennia,” he says.

“We feel very privileged that the clients allowed us to create something both they and the environment deserve without any parameters in design, scope or budget. This enabled us to deliver something elegant, truly timeless, and naturally beautiful.”

For more information

Nature Zone Landscaping
Mobile 0402 463 691
Email info@naturezone.com.au 

The post Nature’s gift appeared first on Completehome.

MLSA Awards of Excellence Winner

A considered multi-level design has transformed this steeply sloping site into a series of flourishing garden terraces where the owners can simply pause and reflect, unwind at the end of a busy day, or entertain family and friends.

Alison Gardiner Designs developed the design concept, passing the baton on to Malcolm Berce, director of Desert Flower Landscaping, to turn dream into reality.

“Our role was to build a modern garden with clean lines, well-defined zones, and a welcoming feel. Both flowing and structured plants were to be included; also, a mix of high-quality natural materials for longevity and visual impact,” says Malcom. “The large fire pit area in the back garden exemplifies the confident blending of materials and with its amphitheatre feel entices people to gather when the temperature drops.

“The crazy-paved, organic-shaped pad in the front garden is another space to seek warmth and companionship. It features a chiminea, seating, a huge bird bath set atop an existing stringy bark gum tree stump, and a pleasing view over the city and sea.”

A great deal of thought was given to the selection of materials. The crazy paving is Grecian Splitstone; bluestone steppers lead the way through paths of compacted Yankomite quartz sand; sandstone walling was used for retaining, seating, and various feature elements; and Corten steel edging was used to contain garden beds.

“The property is in a fire-risk area so solid spotted gum timber was chosen for the vast amount of decking needed to integrate the existing stairs into the new sets of stairs, ramps, and seating spaces. The same timber was used for the steps out front that lead down to the fire pit,” says Malcolm.

For contrast and a modern touch, the massive curved retaining wall was built used honed, slimline white bricks. This brick walling also zig zags in and out around the crazy-paving pads and timber stairs.

With sustainability very firmly in mind, drought-tolerant native plants were prioritised for this project in the foothills of Adelaide; in particular, those that attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Edibles were interwoven with the native plants; rainwater tanks were installed; and materials were locally-sourced where possible.

The significant slope posed a plethora of challenges, from the sheer amount of labour needed to get materials down to the very bottom of the block to water management. The build was completed through both dry and wet seasons, so the team had to direct water down the slope in different ways during the various stages of the work.

The highly skilled team’s effort and expertise was duly recognised in the 2025 MLSA Awards of Excellence, with Desert Flower Landscaping winning three honours: Residential Construction Exceeding $500,000, Best Use of Green-Life, and the coveted Judges’ Choice Award.

“We’d like to thank Alison Gardiner for her amazing design and planting plan, and for working closely with us through the various changes made during construction,” says Malcom. “We also give thanks to the clients who were incredible to work with.”

For more information

Desert Flower Landscaping
Mobile 0437 076 789 (Malcolm Berce)
Email malcolm@desertflowerlandscaping.com.au

Photography: Laura van der Meulen

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