Renovations – Completehome https://www.completehome.com.au Turn your house into a home... Tue, 06 Oct 2026 23:04:56 +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 Renovations – Completehome https://www.completehome.com.au 32 32 Bushfire Safe for all BAL Levels https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/bushfire-safe-for-all-bal-levels.html Tue, 06 Oct 2026 23:04:56 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=91222 With the Australian summer comes the increased prevalence of bushfires and grassfires which can impact homes across the…

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With the Australian summer comes the increased prevalence of bushfires and grassfires which can impact homes across the country.

When building in bushfire prone areas, a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) assessment will be required. There are 6 BAL levels that range from BAL-Low to BAL-FZ (Flame Zone), which is the highest BAL level, and requires either external bushfire shutters or tested and compliant BAL-FZ windows and doors.

A BAL assessment will focus on measures such as the Fire Danger Index, the type of surrounding vegetation and proximity to the home, and slope of the land, to assess the intensity of a location’s potential exposure to bushfire. Once an assessment has been made, the correct type of BAL-rated windows and doors can be selected.

Bushfire Safe for all BAL Levels

Paarhammer manufactures a range of custom-made windows and doors for all BAL ratings up to and including BAL-FZ. Our Bushfire Safe Range has been tested by a third-party NATA-accredited testing facility and is compliant with all relevant Australian Standards.

Tests to two different Australian Standards (AS1530.8.2 and AS1530.4) are performed that both satisfy BAL-FZ requirements for products without shutters, but there are big differences. The main one being that AS1530.4 is the test for a 30 minute window (-/30/-) which is only allowed in an FZ area with limitations like distance from classified vegetation. In the AS1530.8.2 test, a very low heat flux (heat entering through a window product into a building) is one of the deciding factors, as high heat flux could ignite furnishings. It is also dangerous as naked skin can tolerate 5KW/m2 for only about 10 seconds.

Bushfire Safe for all BAL Levels

With Paarhammer BAL-40 and BAL-FZ windows and doors, no external shutters are required, as the windows themselves offer high protection due to the timber used, the fire rated Pyranova® glass, and the technically advanced way of how these products are manufactured.

The timber used by Paarhammer is Manilkara Bidentata (Pacific Jarrah) which is very dense and self-extinguishing, only charring on the surface, which makes it the best choice for products in high BAL rating areas.

Bushfire Safe for all BAL Levels

With Paarhammer products in our BAL-40 Range including fixed windows, tilt and turn windows, hinged glass doors, sliding windows and sliding doors, bi-fold doors, and entrance doors. BAL-FZ products include the same but without bi-fold doors and with strict size limitations of 2.88 m2 – including frame – per individual glazed item. Several of these can be adjoining to form larger glazed areas. Operable windows in BAL-FZ require ember mesh flyscreens which come with the windows.

Bushfire Safe for all BAL Levels

Additional benefits of the Bushfire Range ensure not only peace of mind in case of a bushfire but also include high energy efficiency and security as well as sound reduction. A frame thickness of 78mm, special double-glazing and seals, allow these products to achieve 7 to 8 WERS (Window Energy Rating Scheme) stars.

Ready to talk Bushfire Safe windows and doors? Contact Paarhammer

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Black & White House https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/black-white-house.html Tue, 29 Sep 2026 22:34:18 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=91147 Garran  /  Pixel Arc System Set within the established Canberra suburb of Garran, Black & White House by…

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Garran  /  Pixel Arc System

Set within the established Canberra suburb of Garran, Black & White House by architect Andrew Collins, built by Index Building, is a study in contrast. Conceived as two neighbouring homes, the project uses a shared architectural language while giving each residence a distinctly different identity.

One home takes a darker approach, with black framed windows and doors paired with rich walnut joinery. Beside it, the second residence reverses the palette with white brickwork, oak finishes and white framed glazing. Across both homes, Pixel’s Arc System plays an important role, allowing expansive glazing, natural light and strong connections to the outdoors to become part of the design.

Two homes, one architectural language

The strength of Black & White House lies in the relationship between the two residences. Rather than creating two identical homes, Andrew Collins has used colour and materiality to produce two interpretations of the same architectural idea.

Black & White House

In the darker residence, black aluminium frames reinforce the graphic quality of the architecture. Paired with walnut joinery, they give the interiors depth and warmth while defining each opening. The frames become part of the visual composition, turning views of the garden and surrounding landscape into carefully considered moments.

Next door, the palette becomes lighter and quieter. White brickwork and oak finishes are complemented by white-framed windows and doors, allowing the glazing to sit more softly within the architecture. The result is a home that feels bright and calm, with natural light taking on a more prominent role.

The Arc Lift Door

A defining element across the project is the Pixel Arc Lift Door. Designed for generous expanses of glazing, the lift-and-slide format creates broad openings between interior living spaces and the outdoors while retaining the clean lines of the architecture.

When closed, the large glazed panels maintain views and draw daylight deep into the interiors. When opened, they create a direct connection between living spaces and the garden, allowing the boundary between inside and outside to become less pronounced.

In both homes, this sense of openness is central to the design. The glazing is not treated simply as an inserted element within the walls, but as part of the spatial planning — shaping how each room feels, how light enters and how the architecture responds to its landscape.

Framing natural light

Throughout Black & White House, the contrast between the two palettes is reinforced by the way each residence responds to light.

Against the darker interior, the black Arc frames give structure and definition to expansive areas of glass. In the lighter residence, the white frames recede into the surrounding material palette, creating a softer transition between wall, window and view.

Despite their differences, both homes share an emphasis on proportion, clarity and connection to place. Large openings frame the mature Canberra landscape, while changing daylight brings variation to the restrained materials throughout the day.

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A complete architectural approach

The success of Black & White House comes from the way architecture, interiors and glazing have been considered together.

The black and white palettes give each residence a distinct character, yet the common proportions, detailing and window system establish a clear relationship between the two. Pixel’s Arc System provides a consistent architectural framework while adapting naturally to each material scheme.

For Pixel, the project demonstrates the versatility of the Arc System within contemporary residential architecture. The Arc Lift Door is central to this story, creating expansive connections to the outdoors while remaining integrated with the broader design.

Through the collaboration of architect Andrew Collins, builder Index Building and Pixel International, Black & White House becomes a study in contrast: two homes, two palettes and one cohesive architectural language.

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Project: Black & White House
Location: Garran, Canberra ACT
Architect: Andrew Collins
Builder: Index Building
Windows + Doors: Pixel Arc System
Featured Product: Arc Lift Door
Photography: Anne Stroud

For more information

Website: www.pixelinternational.com.au
Email: sales@pixelinternational.com.au

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Crafted for Coastal Calm https://www.completehome.com.au/pools-spas/crafted-for-coastal-calm.html Fri, 25 Sep 2026 01:43:29 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=91057 A sculptural, sensory retreat shaped by nature and grounded in craftsmanship Nestled within a lush garden just moments…

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A sculptural, sensory retreat shaped by nature and grounded in craftsmanship

Nestled within a lush garden just moments from Somers Beach, Coastal Builders has brought to life a pool project that feels more like a natural spring than a traditional backyard feature.

Designed in collaboration with Alluring Landscapes & Design, this curvaceous, triple-circle pool carves a striking silhouette across a sandy 1055sqm site, just 50m from the shoreline. Every detail has been shaped to honour the coastal setting — from the natural materials underfoot to the soft, fluid forms that echo the ebb and flow of the sea.

From above, the pool’s interlocking circles appear carved into the earth, encircled by warm Castlemain Slate crazy paving, curved timber decking, and native grasses that ripple in the coastal breeze.

Coastal Builders

The organically curved layout connects three distinct yet unified zones: a main swimming area, a spa and a generous swim-out. Each section is finished in dark-grey ceramic mosaics by The Pool Tile Company, creating a moody, reflective surface that changes tone with the light. Castlemaine Slate coping and artisan stone details lend a raw, earthy texture that grounds the design in its surroundings, while custom-made copper water spouts gently cascade from a dark curved wall into the pool below, adding movement, sound and visual rhythm where mosaic tiling shimmers beneath shifting natural light.

Built on a challenging coastal dune, the construction required precision engineering. Flexible yet durable formwork was used to shape the curves, while in-floor cleaning systems and high-performance plumbing (including a Pentair variable speed pump, Zodiac JXL400 gas heater and QuikClean circulation) ensure low-maintenance, high-efficiency operation. Lighting was also a key consideration, with Gardens at Night fixtures and a fully integrated Aqualink control system offering layered ambience and ease of use.

Coastal Builders

The project was more than a technical feat; it was also a deeply personal one. The property belongs to Coastal Builders’ directors Peter and Lauren Leyden, and their teenage children, Zac and Jemma. For them, this wasn’t just about creating a beautiful space — it was about designing a retreat that would suit the rhythms of family life. A place to unwind after work, to entertain friends, and to feel immersed in nature without ever leaving home.

This tranquil design is a celebration of soft forms and coastal textures, underpinned by solid craftsmanship. It embodies the four principles Coastal Builders considers essential to good design: functionality, harmony with the environment, craftsmanship and timelessness. The curved spa seating, tailored landscaping and hand-made fencing elements all speak to a level of care and cohesion that elevates the space beyond the expected.

Environmental considerations also informed the design. Locally sourced materials, drought-tolerant native planting, and long-wearing finishes like copper and stone contribute to a project that not only sits lightly in its environment, but will weather gracefully over time. The result is a coastal pool that looks and feels completely at home in its setting — sculptural, serene and built to last.

This standout project was recognised at the 2025 Victorian SPASA Awards, where it took out Gold Winner — Freeform Pool of the Year, and Gold Winner — Freeform Pool over $120,000, as well as being named a Finalist — Concrete Pool up to $180,000. The accolades reflect not only the pool’s striking design and craftsmanship, but also its seamless integration with the coastal landscape.

Coastal Builders

Established in 2011 by Peter and Lauren Leyden, Coastal Builders is a boutique building company based on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. With a reputation for delivering custom homes and outdoor spaces of enduring quality, the business is driven by a hands-on approach, deep industry knowledge, and a passion for practical yet beautiful design outcomes.

Though the team typically undertakes just a few pool projects every year, each one is crafted with the same care and attention to detail as their full-scale residential builds. Whether integrating a pool into a new home or enhancing an existing property, Coastal Builders focuses on seamless connections between house, landscape and lifestyle. As long-standing members of the HIA and SPASA, and recent recipients of multiple SPASA VIC Awards, they continue to uphold the highest standards in construction and client service.

At a Glance

Pool built by: Coastal Builders and TJ Pool Plumbing
Pool designed and landscaped by: Alluring Landscapes and Design
House built by: Coastal Builders
Pool size: 5m-diameter pool, 2.4m-diameter spa, 3.6m swim-out — freeform shape
Coping: Castlemaine Slate
Tiles: The Pool Tile Company ceramic mosaics (48mm pool, 23mm spa)
Decking: 140x19mm Merbau
Fence: Custom steel/Cypress/brush/glass
Lighting: Gardens at Night, Spa Electrics LED, Aqualink controller
Plumbing & filtration: Pentair, Zodiac, Astral systems with QuikClean in-floor cleaning
Water features: 3 custom copper water spouts
Landscaping: Alluring Landscapes & Design
Plants: Native and drought-tolerant species
Awards: SPASA Vic 2025 Gold Winner – Freeform Pool of the Year + Freeform Pool over $120,000; Finalist — Concrete Pool up to $180,000

For more information

Coastal Builders
A: PO Box 65, Balnarring Vic
P: 0409 142 319
E: peter@coastalbuilders.com.au

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Architectural Home Saved with Calibre https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-building-materials/renovations-building-materials-roofing/architectural-home-saved-with-calibre.html Mon, 21 Sep 2026 01:37:39 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90994 Set among the bushlands of Coatesville, New Zealand, this architecturally designed home has been transformed with a complete…

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Set among the bushlands of Coatesville, New Zealand, this architecturally designed home has been transformed with a complete reroof using Gerard’s Calibre profile. Its clean horizontal lines complement the home’s existing cladding while delivering a sleek, durable finish.

In May 1998 the last concrete roof tile had been laid on a new architecturally designed home amidst the bushlands in Coatesville, New Zealand.  Homeowner Warren and his family had planned for this to be their home for the coming decades and each material choice was carefully considered.  However, Warren didn’t anticipate the drama that would unfold over the coming years, leading to a complete reroof of his home. Fortunately, Gerard had the lightweight solution to give Warren a roof that will last.

The 285m2 house was designed to complement the breathtaking natural surrounds, utilising natural cedar and schist as a feature of the exterior cladding, adding texture and warmth.  Taking inspiration from a neighbouring property, flat concrete roof tiles were chosen, with its appearance mimicking a slate roof.

When Roofing Problems Emerged

Approximately 10 years after the roof was installed, the first issues arose. It started with the pointing coming out of the gable and bargeboard details, allowing birds to creep under the roof and nest in the roof cavity.  At extra cost, repairs were made to the roof to try and fix these issues.  Then the roof started leaking under wind driven rain.

In certain conditions, the roof window overlooking the kitchen would leak and leaks also appeared around a few other unique flashings.  More repairs – and added cost – were undertaken until it became obvious that repairs were not going to solve the root cause: The tiles were no longer providing protection against water ingress. So, the decision was made to reroof the property.

Warren says of the decision “It’s regretful – I never thought I’d have to replace a roof in my lifetime. I also own a property in Devonport and its roof is 90 years old and it’s still ok.  But that’s an old metal roof, and to have a roof that I’ve done in May ‘98 and replacing it already is a bit of a contrast”.  The search was on to find a roofing solution that not only fit the aesthetic of the home, but also provided long-term performance so he wouldn’t need to reroof again in his lifetime.

Gerard roof

Introducing Gerard Calibre

Gerard’s new roof profile, Calibre, caught Warren’s eye, with its horizontal panelling best complementing the style of the existing cladding.  The lightweight steel panel system features Concealed Fastening (CF) technology, made up of an interlocking design which adds strength to the roof, while hiding fasteners from view providing clean lines without interruption.  The staggered installation, CF design, and concealed weather channels culminate in a stylish and high performing roof.

Warren was delighted with a solution that came in a wide variety of colours, backed by a well-known manufacturer.  “Gerard products are known for their paint durability, and I was satisfied that Gerard have long established place in the roofing industry in New Zealand.” Warren explains.

Gerard roof

A Stronger, Lighter Roofing Solution

Aside from aesthetics, the durability and performance of the paint was critical due to the house being on a rainwater tank.  The degradation of the concrete tiles led to many issues, Warren explains “The roof always looked wet, it had a large amount of moss. In the off season when the moss dried up on the lower edge of the tiles, it would fill the spouting with sludge. Then the birds would come and eat the moss, it caused all sorts of problems.”

Apart from clogging the spouting, those problems included the family contracting campylobacter from a dead bird in the roof system, which laid the family out for weeks.  With Calibre, being on a rainwater tank is no issue, as testing on Gerard’s roof coatings has proven the coatings to be aligned with Australian and New Zealand standards for rainwater collection (AS/NZS 4020).

And switching from a concrete roof to a metal panel roof had extra benefits.  The lightweight construction meant Warren could sleep easy at night with around 7 times less weight above the family’s heads while still maintaining the longevity and durability needed for the roof.  The panel design results in a high strength-to-weight ratio, creating a robust matrix that is able to withstand challenging winds and heavy impacts.

Gerard roof

Warren wanted to be very hands-on throughout the reroof process and with his background in engineering and a thorough understanding of construction, it was important for him to work with a team and a manufacturer he could trust.  And Gerard fit the bill.

With his decision made, Warren contracted the Gerard Roofing Centre (GRC) to complete the reroof on his home, using the new Calibre profile in the colour Ebony. The old concrete roof had a few more unpleasant surprises in store though.  When the GRC team started removing tiles from the roof, it quickly became apparent that the structure underneath wasn’t in a suitable condition to leave in place.

The heavy weight of the concrete tiles had caused the trusses to sag and become uneven, requiring new trusses to be erected before the new roof could go on.  Once the new trusses were in place, the Calibre installation began.  Warren worked closely with Scott Caskey, GRC Manager, who was onsite to work with Warren throughout the reroof process.

The difference between the old roof and the new roof is stark.  Calibre’s clean, sharp lines lend an illusion of a modern slate-type roof, while the UV-stable paint gives the roof a sleek aesthetic.  Despite the challenges in reroofing his home, Warren is thrilled with the results, “Gerard rose to all the challenges with this roof.  They overcame them after consultation with me, working through solutions and options.  We got a great result, and the finished product speaks for itself.”

Gerard roof Gerard roof Gerard roof

Roofing Installer: GRC

Roofing Manufacturer: Gerard

Profile: Calibre in the colour Ebony

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VELUX expands daylight design possibilities with Walk-On Skylight launch https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/velux-expands-daylight-design-possibilities-with-walk-on-skylight-launch.html Sun, 20 Sep 2026 22:35:08 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90985 VELUX launches purpose-designed Walk-On Skylight, providing architects, builders and installers with a standardised alternative to bespoke trafficable glazing…

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VELUX launches purpose-designed Walk-On Skylight, providing architects, builders and installers with a standardised alternative to bespoke trafficable glazing solutions.

Designed to work with a VELUX roof skylight as part of the Daylight Waterfall concept, allowing daylight entering from above to continue through the upper floor and into the level below, creating a vertical pathway of natural light through multiple levels of the home, particularly in lower-level spaces with limited access to external windows.

VELUX

VELUX Australia & New Zealand has launched the VELUX Walk-On Skylight, a new daylighting solution designed to help architects, builders and installers bring natural light deeper into residential projects through a trafficable glass floor system.

For decades, VELUX has focused on creating healthier living environments by bringing daylight and fresh air into homes through the roof. As residential design evolves, with greater density, more complex homes and higher design expectations, the challenge of providing access to natural daylight is evolving too.

The VELUX Walk-On Skylight builds on this approach, extending the role of the traditional roof skylight by enabling daylight to continue beyond the upper level of a home and into spaces below.

VELUX

Delivering trafficable glazing and walkable skylight solutions often involves custom engineering, bespoke glazing and project-specific detailing. The VELUX Walk-On Skylight offers architects, builders and installers a standardised alternative that simplifies specification and budgeting.

Kristy Ryan, Managing Director of VELUX Australia, New Zealand & Japan, said the launch reflects VELUX’s ambition to give architects and building designers new ways to design with daylight.

“Homes are becoming more complex, and architects are constantly looking for new opportunities to bring daylight into spaces where conventional windows may not be practical,” said Ryan.

“For VELUX, that means thinking not only about how daylight enters a home, but how it can travel through it. The Walk-On Skylight extends the possibilities of daylight from above, helping architects carry natural light beyond the upper level and into spaces below.”

Available in 1000mm x 2000mm the VELUX Walk-On Skylight supports a range of residential design outcomes, including transferring daylight through multiple levels, reducing reliance on vertical windows, increasing design flexibility and supporting high-performance homes. It can also help preserve wall space, support privacy requirements and create distinctive architectural features within premium residential projects.

Designed to integrate seamlessly with the broader VELUX skylight system. As a daylighting solution, architects can combine a bank of roof windows, including electrically operated models where ventilation is required, with a Walk-On Skylight to channel natural light between levels and enhance daylight penetration throughout the building.

VELUX Walk-on Skylights have already been specified by The Block’s resident architect Julian Brenchley for homes featured in the 2026 season, where it forms part of a broader strategy to improve how daylight moves through the homes.

“One of the challenges in contemporary residential design is finding new ways to bring natural light into parts of the home that have limited access to windows,” said Brenchley.

“The Walk-On Skylight allowed us to think differently about the direction that daylight could travel between levels and become part of the architectural experience of the home.”

“There is also a sense of luxury, design aesthetic and theatre with dramatic visual effects that comes from being able to look from one level down to the one below that can only be achieved by trafficable glazing.”

Available now across Australia, the VELUX Walk-On Skylight is supported by technical documentation, local support and a 10-year VELUX warranty.

Engineered in Denmark and developed to VELUX’s global quality and performance standards, the Walk-On Skylight further expands the company’s daylight-focused product portfolio for residential design.

To find out more about the VELUX Walk-On Skylight and discuss your project and specification, please visit the website.

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MicroStone: Seamless, Stone-Inspired Surfaces for Contemporary Homes https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-finishings/renovations-finishings-surfaces/microstone-seamless-stone-inspired-surfaces-for-contemporary-homes.html Fri, 18 Sep 2026 05:48:41 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=91005 As Australian homes embrace natural textures, organic forms and more considered material palettes, surfaces are becoming an increasingly…

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As Australian homes embrace natural textures, organic forms and more considered material palettes, surfaces are becoming an increasingly important part of design. Rockcote’s MicroStone offers a contemporary way to introduce the sophisticated appearance and tactile character of stone across a variety of surfaces within the home and beyond.

Part of the Rockcote Designer Range, MicroStone is an innovative microcement finish with a refined, stone-like aesthetic. Suitable for both interior and exterior applications, its versatility allows it to be applied across walls, floors and furniture, giving homeowners and designers the freedom to create cohesive spaces where the same material language can flow from one surface to another.

Rockcote’s MicroStone

This flexibility makes MicroStone particularly suited to contemporary Australian interiors. It can be used to create statement walls and architectural features, introduce texture to living spaces, or form part of a seamless material palette across kitchens and bathrooms. MicroStone is also approved for wet-area applications, providing further opportunities to carry its distinctive finish into bathrooms and other areas where both aesthetics and performance need to be considered.

Rather than creating a perfectly uniform surface, MicroStone celebrates subtle variations in texture, tone and movement. The finish can also be tailored to achieve smooth, textured or exposed stone effects, providing further flexibility in the final look and feel of a space. These handcrafted qualities give each application an individual appearance, with the finished surface responding differently to natural and artificial light throughout the day. The smooth, textured and exposed stone finish options are specified in the current TDS.

Rockcote’s MicroStone

Designers and homeowners can further personalise the result through colour. MicroStone is available in 15 tints and oxides, ranging from understated neutrals through to deeper, more expressive tones. Its natural stone-inspired appearance pairs beautifully with timber, concrete and metal, making it easy to integrate into contemporary material palettes.

MicroStone has also been developed with the application process in mind. Its quick-drying formulation requires no sanding between coats, helping streamline application while still delivering the handcrafted appearance expected from a specialist decorative finish.

For homeowners looking beyond conventional paint, tiles and traditional surface treatments, MicroStone provides an opportunity to make the surface itself part of the design. Whether used as a subtle backdrop or a defining architectural feature, it combines texture, versatility and contemporary aesthetics in a finish designed for creative expression.

MicroStone forms part of the broader Rockcote Designer Range, a collection of Natural Materials and Specialty Finishes designed to give architects, designers and homeowners greater freedom to explore colour, texture and materiality.

For more information: Discover the Rockcote Designer Range

Rockcote’s MicroStone Rockcote’s MicroStone Rockcote’s MicroStone Rockcote’s MicroStone Rockcote’s MicroStone

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Clarendon School: Sustainable Design with Paarhammer Windows https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/clarendon-school-sustainable-design-with-paarhammer-windows.html Tue, 08 Sep 2026 01:40:57 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90884 A Passivehaus school extension project in Ballarat has achieved 0.77 ACH50 at the final blower door test and…

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A Passivehaus school extension project in Ballarat has achieved 0.77 ACH50 at the final blower door test and the building is set to achieve Passive House Institute Low Energy Building Certification (PHILEB).

Paarhammer Windows are located only 35km from the school and received International Passive House Component Certification for some of their window ranges, therefore were the ideal window suppliers for this project.

The Junior School Classroom project included the alteration of an existing historic Victorian home and an inter-war cottage converted to educational facilities plus new extensions to form a building that retains heritage while creating new high-performance facilities with reduced energy use and emissions. New facilities include general purpose classrooms, a music classroom, art room, staff rooms and music practice rooms.

A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows

WILLIAMS BOAG architects (WBa) have a reputation for responsible design to address sustainability – social, cultural, ecological, and economic – and addressing environmental impacts generated by the selection of building systems and services, the choice of materials, and the application of passive and active design strategies.

HIP v HYPE consultancy services have been engaged to develop the sustainability pathway and integration into the Clarendon Junior School Campus. The extensive renovation and extension of Clarendon Junior School Campus required extremely energy efficient windows and doors and was built with sustainability key areas of health, resilience, positivity and nature.

Builders SJ Weir Pty Ltd have been established in 1914 and are well known for commercial buildings in a variety of settings including health, education, sport and recreation, aged care, and for historic building refurbishment.

Windows and doors by Paarhammer were made from engineered triple laminated frames in the sustainable manufacturing facility in Ballan. Certified sustainable Accoya® timber was used for both external layers as this is a modified timber which enables it to resist rot and defy the elements, supplied by Britton Timbers. The internal layer was made in Glacial Oak, supplied by Australian Sustainable Hardwood (ASH) in Gippsland. Glacial Oak uses PEFC controlled source material to ensure the best practices are met in terms of sustainability.

A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows

The triple glazing was made by Viridian and features 2x18mm airgaps and 1 level of low-e coating. & All paint used is water based and does not contain harmful substances. The paint is non-toxic with low Volatile Organic Compounds (low VOC’s), and supplied by Adler, Austria. Finipro was used for all clear finishes, Coverpro for solid finishes. This paint is available through Paarhammer’s sister company Siegware.

The existing façades of the heritage cottage and Victorian home were retained including the original timber windows. Paarhammer Passive House windows were set in the interior behind the existing windows to provide the required insulation and energy efficiency. The new part of the school also includes a 2.4m high curtain wall, forming a 16m wide fixed glass façade.

Education buildings need to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment which is possible with using the right building materials including high performing windows and doors.

A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows A Passivehaus school, Paarhammer Windows

Architecture by: Williams Boag Architects
Built by: S.J Weir
Passivhaus Certification by: Hip v Hype
Photos courtesy of S.J. Weir

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Sanctuary Makers: A Range as Individual as Your Vision https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-building-materials/sanctuary-makers-a-range-as-individual-as-your-vision.html Fri, 04 Sep 2026 02:08:58 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90837 Sanctuary Makers collection spans ranges built for every kind of project – from quiet, considered spaces designed to…

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Sanctuary Makers collection spans ranges built for every kind of project – from quiet, considered spaces designed to soothe; to bolder, richly textured environments that make a statement.

The range moves fluidly from soft, tonal neutrals through fresh blues and greens, to ochre-drenched terrazzos.  So whatever the brief, there’s a palette, finish and style to bring it to life.

With almost four decades of manufacturing and design experience, Sanctuary Makers brings genuine expertise not just in colour and design, but in the manufacturing process — uniqueness that specifiers and renovators rely on when a project needs more than just a tile that simply looks the part, but performs as well. Your vision. Your story. Made possible by the Makers.

Sanctuary Makers collection
Wall: Victoria Bellevue pressed metal look; Floor Forma Leonardo.

Where it started, and where it’s grown

Our hallmark has traditionally been attractive decorative tile features for kitchens and bathrooms – the detail that transforms a functional room into a distinctive and beautiful space. That expertise has since evolved into a full complement of floor and wall products, designed from the outset to partner with our decorative features. For architects and designers coordinating a scheme end to end – that means one supplier, one considered palette, and a seamless, floor-to-wall story.

Sanctuary Makers collection
Wall: Allure Byron pressed metal; Floor Terra Lusso

Colour, coordinated

Managing a coordinated colour palette across an entire project is where Sanctuary Makers truly comes into its own. From small residential renovations to ground-up new builds, indoor living spaces to outdoor entertaining areas, and commercial projects  with exacting style and colour specifications, we have both the manufacturing capability and the local, on-the-ground expertise to see a vision through – consistently, and at scale. Local manufacturing can fast-track emerging trends to market, as well as being able to re-create old-world charm.

Whatever you’re designing, explore  Sanctuary Makers extensive collections and if you can’t find exactly what you need, talk to us about custom possibilities.

All ranges and designs come in many colours, formats and finishes.  For the full curated range see sanctuarymakers.com

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Bring the Garden Home with Tuiss x NYBG https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/bring-the-garden-home-with-tuiss-x-nybg.html Wed, 26 Aug 2026 22:43:20 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90807 There’s something about bringing nature indoors that instantly changes the way a room feels. Botanical prints can add…

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There’s something about bringing nature indoors that instantly changes the way a room feels. Botanical prints can add colour and character, soften contemporary spaces and create a sense of calm. The latest designer collection from Tuiss Blinds Online brings that connection with nature right to the window.

The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) collection for Tuiss transforms remarkable botanical artwork into made-to-measure blinds and curtains designed for modern homes.

Drawing inspiration from NYBG’s rare book collection and a rich history of botanical art and plant science, the collaboration celebrates the beauty and intricacy of the natural world through expressive florals, foliage and nature-inspired pattern.

Better still, the collection supports The New York Botanical Garden’s work in plant research and conservation, horticulture and education.

From Botanical Art to Beautiful Interiors

For over a century, The New York Botanical Garden has provided a place to discover, study and connect with the natural world. With the Tuiss x NYBG collection, that same spirit of discovery moves indoors.

Rather than treating window furnishings as simply functional, Tuiss has used the collaboration to turn windows into a feature of the room.

The collection ranges from vibrant statement florals to softer, more versatile botanical patterns, giving homeowners the freedom to embrace as much, or as little, pattern as their space calls for. Drawing from the richness and detail of botanical art, the designs celebrate flowers, foliage and the beauty of the natural world in a way that feels at home in contemporary interiors.

Across the range, artwork with history and meaning behind it is reimagined for everyday living, creating window furnishings that feel decorative, considered and connected to nature.

New York Botanical Garden, Tuiss
Image credit: Scott Jones

A Botanical Statement, Made Your Way

One of the easiest ways to decorate with a botanical print is to let it become the hero of the room.

A patterned Tuiss curtain can create an impressive feature across a larger window, particularly when paired with simple furniture, natural textures and quieter colours elsewhere in the space. For a smaller dose of pattern, a botanical roman or roller Blind can introduce artwork and colour without overwhelming the room.

Because the Tuiss x NYBG collection is made to measure, every blind or curtain is created specifically for the customer’s window measurements, providing a tailored finish without the bespoke price tag or complicated buying process.

Customers can simply measure their windows at home, customise their chosen design and order online, with straightforward DIY measuring and fitting guides available to help along the way.

Not sure which botanical belongs in your home? Tuiss Blinds Online also offers free samples, making it easy to see colours, patterns and fabrics in your own space before deciding.

Beauty with Everyday Practicality

Beautiful window furnishings still need to work hard; something Tuiss has kept at the heart of the collection.

Designs are available across different window furnishing styles and with options for light filtering and blockout linings, allowing homeowners to choose the finish that works for the room as well as the look they love.

In living and dining spaces, light filtering fabrics can soften natural daylight while allowing a botanical print to become part of the atmosphere of the room.

For bedrooms, blockout options provide greater privacy and light control, creating a darker environment when it’s time to rest without sacrificing the impact of a beautiful patterned window furnishing.

It’s this balance of design and practicality that makes botanical window furnishings surprisingly versatile. They’re not simply decorative. They actively shape the light, privacy and feeling of a space throughout the day.

New York Botanical Garden, Tuiss
Passionflower Fawn Roman Blind (left) / Queen Orchid Raspberry Roller Blind (right)

Where Botanical Design Meets Smart Living

For an extra touch of convenience, Tuiss x NYBG rollers, roman blinds and selected curtains can also be upgraded with motorisation when ordering.

Motorisation keeps the window looking streamlined while making everyday light control effortless. Blinds can be adjusted at the touch of a button, while compatible smart app control allows you to incorporate their movement into the rhythm of your day.

It’s a distinctly modern addition to a collection inspired by centuries-old botanical art, and a beautiful example of how Tuiss brings together design, practicality and innovation.

Bring the Garden Home

Whether your style leans towards maximalist colour, romantic florals or a more pared-back connection with nature, the Tuiss x NYBG collection offers a fresh way to bring pattern into the home.

Rich in history but designed for the way we live now, these made-to-measure blinds and curtains turn an everyday part of the home into an opportunity for colour, storytelling and self-expression.

Explore the New York Botanical Garden collection at Tuiss Blinds Online, order your free samples and bring a little more of the garden home.

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8 Reasons to Choose Entrance Doors by Paarhammer https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/8-reasons-to-choose-entrance-doors-by-paarhammer.html Mon, 24 Aug 2026 03:22:12 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90779 Your entrance door is a visitor’s first impression, but it is also the divider between the outside world…

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Your entrance door is a visitor’s first impression, but it is also the divider between the outside world and your private space and reflects your personality and your individual style. An entrance door furthermore has a job to do and that includes providing security, sound-protection and energy efficiency.

Here are 8 points to help you make the right choice:

Style

Your new entrance door should suit the aesthetic of the building, in style and colour. While there are countless design possibilities and material choices, but generally the first decision is between a modern, country, traditional or heritage look, with glass inserts, and with or without sidelights or highlights.

Paarhammer

Materials

Timber is still the most used door material, but there are also aluminium doors, or timber doors which are clad with aluminium on the outside, or uPVC doors available. Longevity, energy efficiency, noise cancellation, maintenance and security are technical reasons to use particular materials, timber and composite wood-alu has all of these if manufactured correctly, with or without glass inserts.

Paarhammer

Energy efficiency

Entrance doors play a huge part in the energy efficiency of your home, especially in open plan builds, as they keep the cold (or heat) outside. Energy efficient doors, correctly installed, help to create a comfortable living environment without drafts, and save energy used for heating (or cooling).

Paarhammer

Longevity 

It is worthwhile to invest into a robust entrance door or entrance combination as such a door will last a very long time. It is important to choose a manufacturer whose products can offer the best option in aesthetic, functionality, security and insulation, as well as longevity.

Paarhammer

Sound Protection

Effective protection from outside noise equals increased comfort. Your home can be your private sanctuary where you can recuperate from a noisy world, relax and rejuvenate. A proven high sound protection of your entrance door is imperative for high quality of living.

Paarhammer

Security

Many burglaries still happen via the entrance door. Your home is your castle, and your entrance door must have security features like multi-point locking with hooks so it can not be taken off the hinges. Feel save in your home and protect what’s dear to you.

Paarhammer

Hardware

There is a large variety of handles or pulls available, depending on your style of door. Entrance doors can be key-locked, have individual automation or can be integrated into your home automation system.

Paarhammer

Installation

Your entrance door should be installed by a professional to ensure that all it’s features work without fail. To optimise highest energy efficiency and air tightness Paarhammer entrance doors are supplied as a full package with door jamb, threshold, multi-point locking system and door furniture.

Paarhammer Windows & Doors

Ready to talk entrance door combinations, Contact us

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