Renovations – Completehome https://www.completehome.com.au Turn your house into a home... Fri, 12 Jun 2026 05:37:16 +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 Salice Exedra Gravity: Redefining Concealed Door Systems for Contemporary Interiors https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/salice-exedra-gravity-redefining-concealed-door-systems-for-contemporary-interiors.html Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:09:44 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=89975 As modern interiors continue to embrace clean lines, seamless aesthetics, and multifunctional spaces, the demand for innovative hardware…

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As modern interiors continue to embrace clean lines, seamless aesthetics, and multifunctional spaces, the demand for innovative hardware solutions has never been greater. Salice Exedra Gravity represents a significant advancement in concealed door technology, delivering a sophisticated solution that allows large doors to disappear effortlessly from view while maintaining exceptional functionality and design integrity.

Designed and manufactured in Italy, Exedra Gravity combines engineering excellence with architectural elegance, enabling designers and specifiers to create spaces that transition seamlessly between open and closed configurations. Whether incorporated into residential kitchens, luxury wardrobes, home offices, entertainment units, or commercial applications, the system offers unparalleled flexibility while preserving a minimalist visual language.

At the heart of the Exedra Gravity system is its innovative gravity-assisted mechanism, which allows doors to retract smoothly and effortlessly into dedicated side compartments. Unlike traditional pocket door systems that may require complex sliding mechanisms, Exedra Gravity utilises a highly refined movement that ensures doors remain perfectly balanced throughout operation. The result is a premium user experience characterised by smooth motion, reliability, and ease of use.

Salice Exedra Gravity

One of the key advantages for specifiers is the ability to conceal entire functional zones when not in use. Kitchens can be transformed into sleek living spaces, home office workstations can disappear at the end of the day, and entertainment units can be hidden behind elegant cabinetry. This flexibility is particularly valuable in contemporary open-plan environments where maintaining visual harmony is essential.

Exedra Gravity also offers impressive design versatility. The system accommodates large door sizes and supports a range of materials and finishes, allowing designers to integrate the solution seamlessly into virtually any project aesthetic. From timber veneers and decorative panels to painted finishes and premium laminates, doors can be specified to complement surrounding joinery and architectural elements.

For architects and designers focused on creating adaptable interiors, Exedra Gravity supports the growing trend toward multifunctional spaces. As homes and workplaces evolve to accommodate changing lifestyles and work patterns, the ability to conceal and reveal functional areas becomes increasingly important.

Salice Exedra Gravity

Exedra Gravity provides a practical solution without compromising on aesthetics or usability.  Installation has also been carefully considered, with the system designed to simplify assembly while maintaining the precision and quality expected from a premium European hardware manufacturer. The robust engineering ensures long-term performance, making it a reliable specification choice for both residential and commercial projects.

Beyond functionality, Exedra Gravity contributes to the overall refinement of an interior by reducing visual clutter and enhancing spatial flow. The ability to conceal large cabinetry openings creates cleaner sightlines and allows designers greater freedom when developing cohesive interior schemes.

As expectations around flexibility, functionality, and design sophistication continue to rise, Salice Exedra Gravity stands out as a forward-thinking solution that bridges the gap between architectural intent and everyday usability. For specifiers seeking innovative hardware that delivers both performance and aesthetic excellence, Exedra Gravity offers a compelling opportunity to elevate contemporary interiors through intelligent concealed door design.

For more information

https://www.nover.com.au/salice-exedra-gravity/

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The Benchmark for Australian Design: Why the Industry Convenes at Design Show Australia https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/the-benchmark-for-australian-design-why-the-industry-convenes-at-design-show-australia.html Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:36:09 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90003 There's a reason the best studios in the country clear their calendars for June. While the daily work happens in the studio, Design Show Australia is where the industry solves its biggest project challenges. It is the definitive platform for discovering new brands, latest product releases, and the emerging trends that will shape Australian projects over the next year.

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There’s a reason the best studios in the country clear their calendars for June. While the daily work happens in the studio, Design Show Australia is where the industry solves its biggest project challenges. It is the definitive platform for discovering new brands, latest product releases, and the emerging trends that will shape Australian projects over the next year.

A specification tool at an unreasonable scale

Furniture. Lighting. Textiles. Surfaces. Materials. Art. Everything needed to take a project from blank page to finished floor: 1,000+ products across 250+ exhibitors, curated and trade-grade, all in one place.

The show floor isn’t a gallery walk. It’s a working tool for designers who specify at scale, built so you can touch, compare and decide without booking a month’s worth of rep appointments or waiting three weeks for a sample. Brands including Bisazza, Buster + Punch, Cane-line, Escea, Natuzzi Italia and Kave Home have earned their place on that floor. So has your time.

And it goes further than the main floor. The Textile + Furnishings Village lets you experience fabrics, wallcoverings, rugs and soft furnishings the way they’re meant to be experienced – by touch, in context, side by side. Discovery Lane surfaces the emerging and under-the-radar brands you won’t find anywhere else. And when you need to decompress, the Design Show Bar & Lounge, sponsored by Natuzzi Italia, is exactly that a considered retreat at the centre of it all.

One pass. Three shows. The full picture.

Register once and you’re in. Design Show Australia, Kitchen+Bath Show (still the only dedicated kitchen and bathroom trade event in Australia), and Futurebuild Australia, which covers the materials, systems and technologies shaping the next decade of construction.

Because in practice, nothing is siloed. The kitchen choice affects the interior. The building system shapes every surface inside it. The format just catches up to the way you already work.

The next wave, before it’s a wave

Australia’s Next Top Designers is a live showcase and $10,000 prize competition presented with Workshopped, sponsored by Flexmirror Australia, Meir and Axolotl. It’s where emerging Australian design talent surfaces first. The materials and thinking on this floor have a habit of landing on the best mood boards in the country within twelve months. Seeing them here is the advantage.

60+ free sessions: built to be applied on Monday morning

Most trade events make you pay for the education program. Design Show Australia doesn’t. All 60+ sessions are included with every free trade pass.

The program covers AI in practice, material specification, wellness design, business strategy and global trend forecasting. Delivered by practitioners with active, high-output studios: Darren Palmer, Greg Natale, Meryl Hare OAM, Hans Galutera, Juliet Ashworth, Jamie Ford of Eight Inc., and Melissa Kaplan of Microsoft, among others.

The standard every session is held to: can your studio act on this immediately?

The business case, plainly stated

Inspiration is fine. What Design Show Australia actually delivers is sharper: supply-chain access, procurement intelligence, and a concentrated view of where Australian design is going. For anyone working in design or construction, this is the most efficient three days on the professional calendar.

  • Trade-only access: Thursday 11 and Friday 12 June.
  • Trade and homeowners: Saturday 13 June opens to trade and homeowners.
  • Registration: Free trade registration is open now: door tickets are $50 from 11 June. Don’t be that person. Register for your free trade pass at designshow.com.au

Design Show Australia | 11-13 June 2026 | ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour

Co-located with Kitchen+Bath Show and Futurebuild Australia

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Why you should visit Public Day at The Design Show at the ICC June 13 https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/why-you-should-visit-public-day-at-the-design-show-at-the-icc-june-13.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 05:30:40 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=90000 The Design Show at the ICC Sydney June 2026 is where designers go for ideas for their projects… but Saturday 13th is open to the public and we think anyone with an impending project should take a look.

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The Design Show at the ICC Sydney June 2026 is where designers go for ideas for their projects… but Saturday 13th is open to the public and we think anyone with an impending project should take a look.

The Show is actually 3 expos in one – so in addition to The Design Show you get access to the Kitchen & Bath Show and Future Build.  The goods on display all have a design element – lots of quality and no rubbish.  You will see furnishings, lighting, textiles, surfaces, materials and much more, including several quality European brands.

The Grand Designs Australia team toured the show earlier this week and here’s some of the stuff that we liked…

  • Unox Casa are doing cooking sessions with their ovens. This brand has foodservice heritage but is now available to consumers.
  • Bisazza have their tiles in a stunning display showing just what you can do with Italian-made glass mosaic tiles.
  • Speaking of Italian heritage check out Venini – over 100 years old but new to Australia – for stunning Murano glass lighting, wall and ceiling fixtures.
  • We loved Stoked Stainless for range of hot tubs and baths. Any new home with a spacious deck needs one of these.
  • Buster + Punch hardware is there with a refined range of hardware, switches and lighting.
  • We loved the outdoor furnishing range from Cane-line – a range that prides itself on comfort.
  • There are many fireplace offerings – New Zealand brand Escea was a stand out.
  • Beaming all blue and geometrics – Australian brand Wautier Carpets are showcasing what can be done with a bespoke approach.

And when you need to decompress, the Design Show Bar & Lounge, sponsored by Natuzzi Italia, is exactly that – a considered retreat at the centre of it all.

On the Saturday, there are a number of sessions in the education program, including our own Publisher Janice Williams who is interviewing Interior Designer Greg Natale at 10:30 Saturday morning. Speakers include Darren Palmer, Meryl Hare OAM, Hans Galutera, Juliet Ashworth, Jamie Ford and may more.

We will continue to beam our favourites from Instagram throughout the day tomorrow.

Public day is Saturday 13th June. For more information go to www.designshow.com.au

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Paarhammer Supplier Focus – Ramsauer Sealants https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/paarhammer-supplier-focus-ramsauer-sealants.html Thu, 21 May 2026 05:20:59 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=89675 Timber has been a key part of creating living spaces for millennia. It is a material that breathes…

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Timber has been a key part of creating living spaces for millennia. It is a material that breathes and responds to its environment, but inhospitable weather and swings in temperature can affect its composition. It requires sealants that will adjust to this transformation while also being able to provide a lasting bond.

Introducing Ramsauer

Their work goes back more than 150 years to the strenuous job of mining chalk from the Salzburg alps and creating putty for glazing, which Ramsauer have developed step by step into a wide-ranging, tried-and-tested product range of 250+ products for sealing, bonding and assembling.

Supplier Focus - Ramsauer Sealants

Products – Silicone-based sealants and adhesives

Paarhammer has been using Ramsauer sealants for over two decades, in particular the Sealant 120 for its high elasticity, many colour option, being 100% silicon, and high UV resistance.

Sealants used to assemble timber windows must meet the highest standards and demonstrate specific qualities. Moisture can lead to mould forming, for instance, and sun rays could create porous spots. The sealant also needs to be capable of withstanding mechanical forces and abrasion. When the right material is deftly applied, the result will be an attractive and functional seal that’s made to last.

  • The sealants should be compatible with the interlayers of IGU’s.
  • The material should be easy to shape and smooth.
  • Non-corrosive sealants recommended.
  • The material should attach without priming.

High quality silicon itself is very expensive, but only a tiny little amount of product is used to glaze a window. With Ramsauer the risk of water ingress is reduced to almost zero.

Supplier Focus - Ramsauer Sealants

Innovation

Overall, 100 employees work at Ramsauer to make more than 58,000 cartridges each day. With their own laboratory, they have been developing new products, reviewing customer requests and improving existing materials. All this is done with cutting-edge technology and equipment and working hand in hand with future-facing research institutes and partners. Should you be interested in purchasing Ramsauer sealants and adhesives, please contact our whole-sale company Siegware.

Professional sealing

Paarhammer windows are factory glazed except for very large items which are glazed onsite. The sealant used is crucial for delivering a flawless appearance and long lifespan.

Ready to talk windows? Contact us

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The House on the Hill https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-building-materials/renovations-building-materials-roofing/the-house-on-the-hill.html Thu, 21 May 2026 03:20:47 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=89644 The night-time vistas at Minden Hill are breathtaking, with broad sweeping views overlooking the vast ocean and Tauranga’s…

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The night-time vistas at Minden Hill are breathtaking, with broad sweeping views overlooking the vast ocean and Tauranga’s twinkling city lights. This is the view that captivated Graeme Neilson one clear autumn evening, just as dusk was settling in, and what kickstarted his years-long project to transform the house atop Minden Hill into his home.

It was 2018 when Graeme purchased the New Zealand property and although the location was faultless, the house on the land didn’t fit with his vision. Graeme explains “It was the ugliest house you could ever imagine in the most beautiful of settings.”

It was a monotone plaster clad building, designed in the Modernist style popular from the 1930s to the 1960s.  Continuing the theme of the minimalist cladding the roof was a flat pitch, characteristic of the architectural style, giving it an almost industrial aura. Though the building wasn’t to his liking, Graeme saw the potential, and could imagine how a redesigned home could look with a pitched roof at the centre of the project.

Graeme’s vision for his new home drew inspiration from Canada, where his brother lives.  Having spent a lot of time there, Graeme fell in love with the aesthetic of wood shingles and slate cladding that is characteristic of the country.  This would require a drastic overhaul of both the exterior cladding and the roof structure.

Gerard roof

A Durable Roofing Solution with Timeless Appeal

To kick-start the project, Graeme contacted Peter Lochhead of Lochhead Design Ltd.  With a clear brief that had the roof change at the core of the project, Peter redesigned the entire roof structure to form a complex pitched roof with multiple storeys, gables, hips and valleys.

Once the design was in place, the material choice was an easy decision to make. Graeme chose Gerard’s CF Slate profile, a slimline roof tile system made of a core of zinc-aluminium coated steel, further coated in proprietary protective layers and finished in a natural stone chip coating with overglaze.  In the final design, the CF Slate tile roof was accompanied by external gable support posts finished in a natural slate cladding.  Graeme says of the design, “That shingle type roof was just something that I really loved and being able to find it in a metal form to get the strength and durability of steel was just the ultimate.”

A change to a pitched roof is relatively common overseas where flat membrane roofs have led to water ingress issues. Flat roofs are characterised by a pitch of less than 10° and in New Zealand, typically require a minimum of 2° to meet the Building Code.

This extremely low pitch can lead to ponding, or standing water, which is when water is unable to run off the roof for over 48 hours after rainfall.  Once ponding is present in a flat roof, remedial action needs to be taken or the issue will accelerate due to the weight of pooled water.  In addition to ponding, cracks, blisters, and splits are all common issues with membrane roofs, which may be difficult to identify as water seepage can go unnoticed leading to long-term damage.

Gerard roof

The large project was prolonged by regulatory requirements to bring the existing structure up to current day’s Building Code.  Folded into the primary project of restructuring the roof, additional changes were built into the overall plan, including updating the kitchen, remodelling internal walls, and the introduction of natural timbers in the home.

To manage the project Graeme contracted Stuart Wood, a local Tauranga-based building contractor on Peter’s recommendation.  In turn, Stuart brought in the team at Taylor Roofing who are experts in working with Gerard roofs.  Construction began at the end of 2020, with scaffolding being erected around October.  During this period, Graeme decided to remain living in the house, only shifting out for around three months when the house became unliveable.

Built to Withstand Extreme Weather

The roof was completed in late 2022, in time to protect the house from the severe weather conditions early 2023 had in store for the region.  Graeme elaborates “It was the ultimate test in terms of roof performance as the location is really, really exposed.  [The wind] is about as extreme as you’re going to get”.  Utilising Gerard’s Concealed Fastening (CF) technology, the CF Slate profile’s design forms an interlocking matrix that is incredibly robust and lightweight.  Fasteners used on the roof are hidden from the elements, prolonging their lifespan and ensuring a sleek final look.

The entire project spanned two and a half years, with the entire building transforming into a new modern-styled home.  And as the project came to a close in April 2023, the hard work paid off with Graeme hosting his wedding on the property in front of the newly renovated home. Graeme reflects on his project to completely overhaul the roof, “I’m totally stoked with it. It’s a beautiful roof.”

Gerard roof Gerard roof Gerard roof Gerard roof Gerard roof Gerard roof

Project credits

Architect: Lochhead Design
Photographer: Jamie Wright
Roof Manufacturer: Gerard

For more information

Gerard

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Create The Hamptons Look with Weathertex https://www.completehome.com.au/new-homes/create-the-hamptons-look-with-weathertex.html Thu, 14 May 2026 05:06:26 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=89510 The Hamptons aesthetic has become one of the most sought-after design styles in Australian homes. Known for its…

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The Hamptons aesthetic has become one of the most sought-after design styles in Australian homes. Known for its relaxed coastal elegance, light-filled spaces, and timeless appeal, this coastal-inspired look blends classic detailing with modern comfort. With Weathertex, achieving the Hamptons look is not only possible but also practical, sustainable and cost-effective.

What Defines the Hamptons Coastal Style?

At its core, the Hamptons coastal style is inspired by the luxurious beach houses of Long Island, New York. It is characterised by:

  • Clean lines and symmetrical design
  • Light, neutral colour palettes dominated by whites, soft greys and coastal blues
  • Natural textures and materials
  • Generous verandas and outdoor living spaces
  • Traditional detailing such as weatherboards and trim

The exterior plays a critical role in setting the tone, bringing together both Hamptons sophistication and relaxed coastal charm, and this is where Weathertex products excel. Film forming varnishes are not recommended as these require a high amount of maintenance.

The Perfect Cladding for a Hamptons Exterior

Weathertex offers a range of timber cladding solutions that align seamlessly with the Hamptons aesthetic. Whether you are building new or renovating, the right cladding choice can instantly elevate your home’s facade.

Weatherboards for Classic Appeal

Weatherboards are synonymous with Hamptons design. Their horizontal lines create a sense of proportion and timelessness.

Weathertex weatherboards provide:

  • A natural timber look without the high maintenance
  • Durability suited to Australian conditions
  • A smooth or woodgrain finish to suit your design preference

Pairing weatherboards with crisp white paint or soft coastal hues creates that instantly recognisable Hamptons facade.

Weathertex

Weathertex Profiles for a True Hamptons Finish

To achieve an authentic Hamptons coastal look, selecting the right cladding profile is key. Weathertex offers a range of options that align perfectly with this timeless style.

  • Primelok : Primelok delivers the classic horizontal weatherboard look with a clean, flat finish. Its sharp lines and uniform appearance make it ideal for creating a refined Hamptons facade, especially when paired with crisp white or soft coastal tones.
  • Classic: The Classic range offers a more traditional weatherboard profile with subtle shadow lines, adding depth and character to the exterior. This profile works beautifully for heritage-inspired Hamptons homes or designs that lean into a more relaxed coastal aesthetic.
  • Shingles Plus – For feature areas such as gables or upper levels, Classic Shingles Plus provides a distinctive coastal texture. Often seen in traditional Hamptons architecture, shingles add visual interest and enhance the overall design while maintaining a cohesive look.

To achieve an authentic Hamptons coastal look, selecting the right cladding profile is key. Weathertex offers a range of options that align perfectly with this timeless style.

Choosing The Right Coastal Colour Palette

Colour is essential in achieving an authentic Hamptons look. Stick to a restrained palette inspired by the coast.

Popular choices include:

  • Crisp whites for a fresh, clean appearance
  • Soft greys for subtle contrast
  • Muted blues to reflect the ocean

Accents such as black window frames or natural timber doors can add depth and sophistication without overpowering the design.

Weathertex

Finishing Touches That Complete The Coastal Look

The details are what bring the Hamptons style to life. Consider incorporating:

  • Wide trims and mouldings around windows and doors
  • Feature gables or pitched roofs
  • Balustrades and columns on verandas
  • Outdoor lighting in classic or coastal styles

When paired with Weathertex cladding, these elements create a cohesive and polished exterior.

Sustainable and Made for Australian Conditions

Beyond aesthetics, Weathertex products are designed with sustainability and performance in mind. Manufactured from natural hardwood timber and free from added silica, glues or resins, Weathertex cladding offers a low-carbon alternative without compromising on durability.

With a long warranty and proven performance in harsh Australian climates, Weathertex ensures your Hamptons-inspired home looks beautiful for years to come.

Bring Your Coastal Hamptons Vision to Life

Creating a Hamptons-style home is about more than just appearance. It is about crafting a space that feels calm, inviting and effortlessly elegant, with a strong connection to coastal living.

With Weathertex, you have the flexibility to design a home that captures the essence of coastal living while benefiting from sustainable, high-performance materials.

Explore the Weathertex range today and start bringing your Hamptons vision to life.

See more costal looks in our 2026 Design Trends

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Aluminium Clad Entrance Doors by Paarhammer https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/aluminium-clad-entrance-doors-by-paarhammer.html Mon, 04 May 2026 06:07:12 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=89392 Curb appeal is not the only reason to have your entrance door custom made by Paarhammer. The low…

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Curb appeal is not the only reason to have your entrance door custom made by Paarhammer. The low maintenance of aluminium clad timber doors, together with high security, high sound protection and high energy efficiency are reasons why these doors have become a bestseller.

Custom-made in Australia with the warmth of timber on the inside, these doors feature a powdercoated aluminium exterior in a wide range of colours. The timber interior is spray-painted or stained with low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) to a colour of your choice.

Aluminium Clad Entrance Doors

Several configurations are available like a single door, double doors, with 1 sidelight or 2 sidelights, or highlight with or without sidelights. These doors can also feature glass inserts within the door, in a choice of glass combinations. Large sizes can be made to suit your architectural style.

The modern look of the locally fabricated doors is enhanced by a large variety of handle choices. Automation is also an option, either stand-alone or integrated into your home system.

With the latest in German hardware fittings with easy adjustment, Paarhammer Alu-clad doors are also very secure, featuring concealed multi-point locking with pin-bolts and hook-bolts.

Aluminium Clad Entrance Doors

Completed with a low-step aluminium threshold or the patented magnetic Zero-threshold, these doors meet the Livable Housing Design Standard community needs including for the elderly or those with mobility limitations.

Aluminium Clad Entrance Doors

Increased sound-protection keeps noise outside and creates a quiet indoor oasis. In addition, seals reduce drafts and enhance comfort levels. These high-performance doors play a large part in reducing energy requirements as they are extremely efficient with a U-value energy ratings from a very low 1.4, suitable even for Passivehaus builds.

Entrance doors are available as a full package only, including door jamb, threshold, multi-point locking system and door furniture to ensure highest energy efficiency and easy installation. Paarhammer does not manufacture door panels by themselves.

Aluminium Clad Entrance Doors combine high architectural value with low maintenance to create a great first impression.

Ready to talk Entrance Doors? Contact us

For more information

Paarhammer Windows & Doors

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Family affair https://www.completehome.com.au/outdoors/family-affair-brisbane-garden.html Thu, 30 Apr 2026 23:53:41 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=88911 This enduring Brisbane garden has a laidback modern Hamptons aesthetic Fresh and inviting, both the front and rear…

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This enduring Brisbane garden has a laidback modern Hamptons aesthetic

Fresh and inviting, both the front and rear gardens stand as a prime example of how thoughtful landscape design can transform a blank canvas into a timeless, family-friendly retreat.

Located on an 830sqm sloped block in Brisbane’s Inner North, the landscape, designed by Michelle de Winter, Creative Director of Green Ink Garden Design, merges sustainable design principles with a relaxed modern Hamptons aesthetic, ideally suited to Queensland’s subtropical climate.

Green Ink Garden Design

“The design brief focused on creating a landscape that reflects the family’s lifestyle — natural, low-maintenance, and practical — while offering safe, enticing spaces for children to play and adults to unwind,” explains Michelle. “Central to the design was the establishment of functional zones that connect seamlessly with the new home, enabling year-round enjoyment.

“A predominantly native planting palette was selected to foster biodiversity and minimise maintenance, while select flowering species introduce vibrant colour throughout the seasons,” she adds. “The choice of Zoysia Nara turf provides a hardy, drought-tolerant lawn that’s soft underfoot and perfect for play.”

The front garden and entry balance privacy with street appeal, incorporating secure fencing that keeps children and pets safe and contributes to the home’s coastal-inspired aesthetic. Native plants adapted to wet, clay soils, including Brachyscome angustifolia ‘Mauve Bliss’ (native daisy), Casuarina glauca ‘Cousin It’ (she-oak), Myoporum parvifolium ‘Yareena’ (creeping boobialla), Leptospermum hybrid ‘Pink Cascade’ (tea tree), Melaleuca quinquenervia ‘Mini Quini’ (dwarf broad leaved paperbark), Melaleuca thymifolia ‘Cotton Candy’ (honey myrtle), and Raphiolepis indica ‘Cosmic Pink’ (Indian hawthorn) provide subtle colour.

Green Ink Garden Design

“The existing swimming pool area was redesigned as both the visual and social heart of the backyard. Slip-resistant natural granite was chosen for its durability and understated elegance, complementing the home’s architectural tones. Surrounding garden beds of thoughtfully layered native and subtropical species soften the space and add colour, enhancing the connection between house and garden,” says Michelle.

“A dedicated mulched garden zone was created to accommodate the children’s trampoline, discreetly screened with lush planting to integrate it into the landscape.”

Working with the landscaper, Jade Built Landscape and Construction, Michelle also addressed drainage issues, with level changes, sub-surface drainage, and tiered gardens managing water movement across the property. At the rear, a rain garden captures excess runoff, forming a temporary ponding area that attracts native wildlife. It’s surrounded by Ficinia nodosa (knobby club rush), a native tussock grass. Sustainability was also a fundamental consideration with sustainable materials, including merbau timber, used throughout.

Green Ink Garden Design

The result is a series of cohesive outdoor spaces that feel effortless and refined, demonstrating how well-resolved design can overcome site challenges to deliver spaces that enrich a family’s lifestyle. This timeless coastal-Hamptons-meets-subtropical-Queensland design celebrates form, function, and family living, gifting the family with a modern Brisbane garden built to thrive for many years to come.

For more information

Green Ink Garden Design
Qld winner – LDI National Landscape Design Awards

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Inside the Night: Celebrating the 2026 Grand Designs Australia House of the Year Awards https://www.completehome.com.au/new-homes/inside-the-night-celebrating-the-2026-grand-designs-australia-house-of-the-year-awards.html Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:34:51 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=89330 The 2026 Grand Designs Australia Magazine House of the Year Awards honored the visionaries who are redefining what it means to live well in the modern Australian landscape. Hosted by the charismatic Anthony Burke, presenter of Grand Designs Australia, the evening was less about the trophies and more about the "rollercoaster" journeys architects and homeowners take to bring ambitious residential projects to life.

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On April 14, 2026, the Australian architecture community descended upon the Ace Hotel Sydney for a night of celebration, storytelling, and high-stakes reveals

The 2026 Grand Designs Australia Magazine House of the Year Awards honored the visionaries who are redefining what it means to live well in the modern Australian landscape.

Hosted by the charismatic Anthony Burke, presenter of Grand Designs Australia, the evening was less about the trophies and more about the “rollercoaster” journeys architects and homeowners take to bring ambitious residential projects to life.

A Night of Meaningful Design

The event kicked off with a cinematic atmosphere, set against the warm interiors of the Ace Hotel. Beyond the awards themselves, the night featured poignant addresses that touched on the social impact of design:

  • Wayne Viles (UNOX Casa) shared insights into the kitchen’s evolution as the emotional and functional heart of the home.
  • Shaun Christie-David (Plate It Forward) delivered a powerful message about using hospitality to provide dignity and opportunity, a theme that resonated with a room full of people dedicated to building better communities.

The 2026 Winners of the House of the Year Awards: Leading the Way

The highlights of the evening were, of course, the announcements of the category winners. These projects stood out for their ingenuity, sustainability, and aesthetic brilliance.

Top Honours of the Night:

  • Small New Home (<200m²): Amongst the Eucalypts by Jason Gibney Design Workshop (NSW). This project was hailed as a masterclass in responding to the natural bushland.
  • Large New Home: Three Garden House by Parabolica (SA). A poetic design that seamlessly weaves greenery into the very core of the residence.
  • Small Renovation: House in Erskineville by Architect George (NSW). An inventive urban transformation that maximizes every square inch of a tight city footprint.
  • Large Renovation: Cloaked House by TRIAS Pty Ltd (NSW). A dramatic reimagining of an existing structure that provides a quiet, sophisticated silhouette.

Specialty Awards:

  • Best Interior: Yarraville Peak by Weaver+Co Architects (VIC) with Lucy Marczyk Design Studio, noted for its exceptional flow and masterful use of light.
  • Energy-Efficiency Award: Presented by Editor Louise Smithers, this went to Ochre House by MyMyMy Architecture (NSW), proving that high-performance, climate-conscious living can also be beautiful.
  • People’s Choice Award: The public favorite was Table Top by Pleysier Perkins Architecture (NSW), which captured the hearts of readers with its family-friendly functionality and striking lines.

A Feast for the Senses

Inside the Night: Celebrating the 2026 Grand Designs Australia House of the Year Awards

The celebration was catered by Plate It Forward, who served a vibrant menu of Sri Lankan and Afghani-inspired canapes, reflecting the multicultural spirit of Sydney. The buzz in the room was a testament to a thriving industry that continues to push the boundaries of Australian residential architecture.

For those who want a deeper dive into these spectacular homes, keep an eye out for the Grand Designs Australia Magazine flipbook, arriving in June 2026, or read more about the winners at the Grand Designs Australia Magazine website.

The Grand Designs Australia Magazine House of the Year Awards are brought to you by our Gold Sponsor UNOX Casa, Silver Sponsor Rylock Windows & Doors, Bronze Sponsor Big Ass Fans, and trade partners Austaron Surfaces, Embelton Flooring, and Mr Trampoline. 

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Salt, Stone and Serenity https://www.completehome.com.au/pools-spas/salt-stone-and-serenity.html Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:38:29 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=89191 A calming pool retreat inspired by the tones and textures of the coast TG Excavations & Unique Pools…

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A calming pool retreat inspired by the tones and textures of the coast

TG Excavations & Unique Pools – 2026 Pool of the Year Awards Entrant

Tucked into a compact 350sqm block in Henley Beach, South Australia, this backyard proves that generous outdoor living isn’t defined by size. Designed with precision and restraint, the pool and landscape unfold as a cohesive retreat where stone, timber, water and planting work in quiet harmony.

From the outset, the owners, a young family with two energetic children, wanted something that felt a little different. Easy maintenance was essential, but so was personality. Working closely with Hutch Landscapes, the design evolved into a space that balances clean architectural lines with softness and warmth, ensuring the pool sits naturally within the garden rather than dominating it.

TG Excavations & Unique Pools

TG Excavations & Unique Pools delivered a 6.5m x 3.4m concrete pool, its rectangular form softened by gently rounded entry steps. Fully tiled in Carrara White mosaics, the water shimmers against pale limestone coping, creating a light, coastal feel that reflects Henley Beach’s relaxed seaside character. Despite the limited footprint, circulation around the pool is effortless, with every material choice reinforcing the sense of flow.

A standout feature is the stone-clad water wall, fitted with moon-shaped spouts that spill water gently into the pool. More sculptural than showy, the feature adds movement and sound without overpowering the space. Subtle multi-coloured lighting enhances the pool at dusk, while a Silver Top Ash deck introduces warmth and provides a natural transition between water, lawn and planting.

The build came with its challenges. Restricted access to the rear of the property required creative problem solving, with excavation achieved via a neighbouring property after temporarily removing a fence panel. The solution allowed works to proceed efficiently, with all fencing carefully reinstated once construction was complete — a testament to the team’s collaborative and respectful approach.

What makes this pool truly memorable is how completely it uses the available space. Every surface, junction and detail feels considered, from the stonework and decking to the lush planting that frames the pool and softens boundary lines. It’s a compact backyard transformed into a highly liveable, distinctive outdoor room — designed for elevated everyday family life, entertaining and long summer days by the water.

TG Excavations & Unique Pools

At a Glance

Pool built by: TG Excavations & Unique Pools
Pool design & landscaping: Hutch Landscapes
Size: 6.5m x 3.4m
Heating: AES TDI 26kW heat pump
Cleaning: Dolphin M400 robotic cleaner
Filtration: Naked Freshwater System
Coping: Eco Outdoor Duro Limestone
Tiles: Klay Amano Carrara White 25×25
Lighting: PAL Lighting (multi-coloured)
Decking: Silver Top Ash
Outdoor furniture: Tait Furniture

Company Profile

Owned and operated by Tony Romeo, TG Excavations & Unique Pools has been in business for more than 26 years. The company’s expertise and extensive experience make it a leader in the field.

TG Excavations & Unique Pools specialises in creating exquisite concrete swimming pools, cellars and underwater tanks as well as detailed excavations, site preps, base preps, concrete works, foundations, housing and additions. The company can also provide paving and retaining walls and supply all the equipment needed for your pool. TG Excavations owns all of the relevant machinery, trucks and equipment to accommodate your project, so you can rest assured that everything is taken care of from start to finish.

Tony has been in the building industry for 34 years and employs only highly qualified and professional tradespeople to ensure work of the best quality. Attention to detail is the number-one priority, guaranteeing that clients receive superior service with personalised results. “We limit the number of pools we work on each year to make sure our customers receive our undivided attention through the duration of their project,” says Tony.

With a true passion for his work, Tony will always go the extra mile for his clients and his customer referrals speak for themselves. “The TG difference is that we absolutely love what we do and are always up for a new challenge. We believe there is no project too difficult for our capable team,” says Tony.

He is also available to help with your design, professional requirements and engineering to ensure you are 100 per cent satisfied with the end result.

For more information

TG Excavations & Unique Pools
A: 8 Dan St, Mawson Lakes SA
M: 0418 803 780
E: info@tgexcavationsandpools.com.au

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