For years, the pool sat in the ‘too hard basket’ because established houses can often mean restricted access increase the cost to excavate the pool or risks of undermining house footings were largely increased.

When planning a knock down / re-build the access opens and the reality of a concrete pool structure installation becomes a wonderful opportunity and Blue Haven Pools are leading the way in concrete pool two stage builds.

The first stage is structural placement. Excavation, steel, primary plumbing and concrete placement.

The house build then takes shape and when the home is ready for occupation, the finishing touches are done to the pool including tiling, filtration, heating, fencing, interior and filling the pool with water.

Knockdown rebuilds are no longer a niche move. They are a major part of how homeowners are upgrading in established areas, especially closer to city centres, where site constraints matter more and every decision has a ripple effect on access, levels, drainage and outdoor flow.

That matters because a pool is not just a finishing touch.

It is a planning decision.

When the pool is considered early, the project gains real advantages:

• access for machinery is easier
• placement is smarter
• levels and drainage can be coordinated properly
• outdoor areas feel integrated, not pieced together later

When it is left too late, the opposite tends to happen:

• finished work gets disturbed
• access becomes restricted or undermines nearby structures
• layout options shrink
• costs rise because the site is harder to work with

This is exactly why early pool planning has become such an important conversation in rebuilds and major renovations. Blue Haven breaks this down well in its guide on when to install your pool during a knockdown rebuild, especially for Sydney blocks where timing can directly affect cost and construction flow.

The smartest projects in 2026 are not asking, “Can we add a pool later?”

They are asking, “How do we make the house and pool work as one plan from the start?”

That is a much better question. And usually, it leads to a much better outcome.

If you are planning a rebuild or major renovation, explore more practical planning advice and project inspiration at Blue Haven Pools. Blue Haven Pools — plan first, build once.

The post Blue Haven Pools — Smart Planning for a Perfect Pool appeared first on Completehome.

Now, you can receive the same level of assurance and certainty regarding the true design and construction cost of your renovation plans before the hammer falls at auction, with MILEHAM’s newly launched Pre-Home Purchase Renovation Consultation.

Why Consult Before You Buy?

Buying a home with plans to renovate is exciting, whether you’re looking to make it your own, or flip it for profit. However, in all the excitement it’s easy to underestimate the true scope of work, potential structural challenges, planning requirements and hidden costs involved in renovating a home. To sidestep these issues, having a clear picture from an experienced Architect and builder is invaluable and will ultimately protect your bottom line.

MILEHAM’s Pre-Home Purchase Renovation Consultation brings together the knowledge of an experienced Architect and builder in one onsite consultation, to help you understand the feasibility of your ideas.

Before you purchase a home, this Consultation will arm you with the answers to questions like:

• Will the home’s current structure support your design plans?
• Are your design ideas allowable within local council planning regulations or complying development guidelines?
• What additional consultants (e.g. town planner, engineer, arborist, etc.) will you need to engage to bring your plans to life, and how much should you budget for these consultants?
• What will the design and construction elements cost, and how will this affect your overall budget?
• And much more.

What You Gain from MILEHAM’s Consultation

MILEHAM has been providing this service privately to their clients for some years, however have now launched it to the market formally on the back of increasing demand for service of this type, as home buyers look for more certainly and transparency in their new home purchase renovation plans.

Here’s why having MILEHAM on your side before you commit to buying your home is a smart move:

1. Budget Certainty: MILEHAM provides a clear estimate of expected design and construction costs, so you can factor them into your total budget before the auction. This helps you avoid underestimating expenses and going through the heartbreak of unexpected costs and delayed timelines.

2. Feasibility Check: Their team assesses the structural soundness of the home to make sure your design ideas are possible. Knowing what’s structurally feasible prevents you from investing in design ideas that may not be possible within your budget.

3. Compliance with Regulations: Every local council has its own set of planning regulations. MILEHAM’s consultation identifies what is allowable within your local council or complying development code.

4. Informed Bidding: Armed with the knowledge of potential renovation costs and requirements, you can bid confidently at auction, knowing your full budget accounts for both buying the property and bringing it to life with your ideas.

What the Consultation Covers

The consultation involves an onsite visit (usually a scheduled real estate agent’s inspection time) where a Registered Architect and Licensed Builder from MILEHAM walks through the property with you. They will evaluate your design ideas in light of the home’s current structural layout, advise on planning approval feasibility, provide a high level estimate for likely construction cost, and offer any additional relevant recommendations or advice as part of your overall project goals.

This means that when auction day comes, you can make a well-informed bid, knowing how much you will likely need to set aside for your planned renovations and help avoid those heartbreaking unexpected renovation cost surprises later.

A Better Home-Buying to Renovate Experience

MILEHAM’s Pre-Home Purchase Renovation Consultation offers peace of mind by helping you make confident, informed decisions before buying your home. It sets the stage for a successful renovation that adds real value and creates a home tailored to your lifestyle and budget.*

For more information

To learn more about how MILEHAM can guide you through your next home purchase and renovation project, or to book an onsite consultation, visit our website.

*This service is currently only available in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, North Shore and Eastern Suburbs.

The post Unlock your renovation costs before buying with MILEHAM’s Pre-Home Purchase Consultation appeared first on Completehome.

Originally hindered by an awkward 1970s extension that severed the home’s connection with its garden, this 116-year-old Lane Cove Federation home faced both aesthetic and functional limitations for modern family living. The homeowners longed to retain the character and warmth of the original architecture, while addressing the demand for space and movement needed by a family of five with three teenage boys.

The Client’s Dilemma: A Charming Home Struggling with Space and Flow

As is the story with many older homes, this home had its fair share of floor plan challenges. While its Federation-style façade holds a timeless charm, the interior was suffering from a previous, poorly designed floorplan alteration executed almost half a century earlier. A low-ceilinged extension had left the house feeling stifled and cut off from its outdoor entertaining spaces. The galley kitchen was so confined only one person could functionally be in there at a time. It left the client feeling cramped, unable to enjoy internal living of the home together as a family, yet also unable to make full, regular and natural use of the garden and pool area due to its disconnect with the main house.

MILEHAM’s Vision: A Seamless Transition and Open, Airy Spaces

To breathe new life MILEHAM’s Principal Architect, James Pilcher, focused on two main goals: reconnect the home’s interior with its garden and pool, and redesign the extension to properly integrate it with the original heritage home. James’ design ethos centred on respecting the past while meeting modern needs, and the result speaks volumes.

They began by reworking the existing extension, opting for a design that embraced the sloping block on which the home sat. Rather than fight the natural slope of the land the new layout welcomes it, creating a soft transition from the front entry to the rear veranda by encouraging a subtle forward movement towards light and space and the curiosity of ‘what lies beyond’.

Design Excellence: Honouring the Federation Spirit

One of MILEHAM’s triumphs in this project is the way they maintained the integrity of the original home’s Federation architecture while injecting contemporary floorplan design elements. Drawing on heritage cues, the team seamlessly integrated features of the original façade into the new extension. The rich, historical details—such as the high ceilings and intricate mouldings—are echoed in the new spaces, ensuring the home’s heritage is ever-present.

In particular, the introduction of a 3.6-meter Mansard ceiling in the new expansive living/dining/kitchen extension adds an impressive sense of scale without overwhelming the intimate feel of the home. This delicate balance of grandeur and warmth was achieved through careful material selection and attention to period-specific detailing, demonstrating MILEHAM’s respectful understanding of historical design.

Tackling Architectural Complexities: The Sloping Block Solution

One of the most interesting aspects of this renovation was MILEHAM’s approach to the home’s difficult sloping block. Sloping sites often present significant architectural challenges, particularly when trying to create a cohesive flow between different areas of the home.

MILEHAM took on this challenge headfirst, creating a floor to ceiling design which maintains a consistent eyeline throughout the space. This approach not only improved the functional layout of the home but also enhanced its visual appeal.

To ensure the home felt unified from front to back, the new extension was designed with a simple stepped floor plan that followed the natural slope of the land. The wide stairs that connect the old and new parts of the home serve to lead the eye through the home, out into the garden beyond.

A Masterpiece Recognised: Excellence in Housing Awards Finalist

MILEHAM’s elegant transformation of this Lane Cove home has earned them a finalist nomination in the coveted 2024 Master Builders Association (MBA) Excellence in Housing Awards. Their nomination underscores the skill, creativity, and dedication they brought to this project, highlighting not just the aesthetic appeal of the renovation, but also MILEHAM’s ability to address complex design challenges. The MBA particularly recognised MILEHAM for their meticulous attention to detail in balancing the home’s rich heritage with its modern-day functionality, and connecting the two seamlessly.

A Testament to Thoughtful Design: A Home Reconnected to Its Roots

This Federation home renovation is an elegant example of how contemporary design thinking can reinvigorate Sydney’s heritage homes, ensuring they remain functional for modern life without losing their original character. This renovation not only reconnects a family with their home and garden, but also stands as a symbol of what is possible when architectural challenges are met with creativity, precision, and passion.

Project Scope: Heritage Renovation, Extension
Architecture: MILEHAM
Project Management: MILEHAM
Construction: MILEHAM
Award: FINALIST, 2024 Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards, House Alterations and Additions – $600,001 – $800,000 (Winners to be announced 28 September, 2024)

For more information

Lane Cove Federation Charm

The post An Award-Worthy Fusion of Heritage and Innovation: Transforming a Federation Home appeared first on Completehome.

However, we understand that along with excitement, there can be a tinge of apprehension and self-doubt, especially when considering the commitment and investment involved in a home renovation project, which is common to experience a mix of nerves and self-doubt, particularly when faced with the importance of a home renovation project. The fear of making mistakes looms large, ignited by tales of unreliable builders, poor workmanship, budget overruns, and endless delays. Yet, delve deeper, and you’ll often find that flawed preparation or execution was the root cause of these nightmares.

At Smith & Sons, we understand the complexities involved in making renovation decisions. As premier home renovation specialists serving Australia and New Zealand, we bring over 15,000 successfully completed projects to the table. Each renovation is approached with a deep understanding of its uniqueness, rejecting the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, we implement a tailored approach, guiding you through key steps essential for achieving the desired outcome.

When engaging with homeowners contemplating renovations, we often encounter three common scenarios:

1. They’re enthusiastic about renovating but lack clarity on where to begin.
2. They have exciting ideas but feel uncertain about the next steps.
3. They’ve drafted plans but struggle with translating them into reality.

Rest assured; these uncertainties are natural. With the right builder by your side—knowledgeable, experienced, and committed—these obstacles can be overcome, or better yet, eliminated from your renovation experience. At Smith & Sons, we pride ourselves on delivering a service that transforms the renovation journey into a seamless and enjoyable journey for homeowners.

Drawing upon our years of experience, we’ve curated a comprehensive Renovation Guide designed to empower homeowners at every stage of their renovation project. Packed with invaluable insights, tips, and expert advice, our guide covers a wide array of topics, from selecting the perfect builder to navigating home renovation contracts. Whether you’re pondering overlooked questions or seeking inspiration for maximising your home’s value on a budget, our guide equips you with the knowledge needed to begin on your renovation journey confidently.

Here’s a glimpse of what our guide covers:

• Choosing the right builder to suit your needs.
• Key considerations when planning a renovation project.
• Comparing builder quotes effectively.
• Understanding home renovation contracts and their intricacies.
• Navigating the home renovation process step by step.
• Avoiding the four most common renovation pitfalls.
• Strategies for enhancing your home’s value without breaking the bank.

Accessing our comprehensive guide is simple and free. Whether you are in the initial stages of considering a renovation or ready to dive in headfirst, arming yourself with knowledge is paramount. At Smith & Sons Renovations & Extensions, we recognise the importance of making informed decisions and strive to alleviate any concerns you may have through the renovation process. Take the first step toward a successful renovation journey by exploring our guide today.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE RENOVATION GUIDE

For more information

Smith & Sons Renovations

The post Looking to renovate? Not sure where to start? appeared first on Completehome.

It is of great benefit to any business in the Window Industry to engage with people across the industry supply chain, learn the latest the industry is facing, and network with industry colleagues.

‘A Clear Future’ was the overall theme of the conference and it featured many break-out sessions and interesting speakers from Australia and overseas. Topics included:

• Innovation in Construction,
• Energy and the Future of Buildings,
• A smart Vision for a Sustainable Future,
• The changing Economic Outlook,
• Adapting to Change,
• Standards and Consumer Law,
• Change in Regulation Space,
• Energy Ratings in Australia,
• Durability is Key to Net Zero,
• HR, Safety, material innovations, and much more

With over 700 registered attendees, the conference brought together industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts, creating an exceptional platform to exchange insights and celebrate our thriving sector. Many supply businesses to the industry also featured displays to showcase their latest products, e.g. Paarhammer’s affiliated hardware company Siegware.

AusFenEx23 was not just a conference; it was a unique opportunity to delve into emerging trends, connect with like-minded peers, and recognise excellence through national awards. We witnessed groundbreaking discussions on the latest advancements, fostering collaboration and paving the way for a bright future; a clear plus also for our clients.

For more information

Paarhammer Windows & Doors

The post AGWA Conference 2023 | Paarhammer Windows & Doors appeared first on Completehome.

His response: an effortlessly interconnected indoor/outdoor experience.

Lockyer firmly believes that outstanding architecture should stretch beyond the immediate needs of a single homeowner and aim for long-term sustainability, catering to multi-generational living. To achieve this, he underscores the significance of designs that are versatile, hardy, universally appealing, and adaptable. Personalising a home goes beyond architectural choices; it entails the considerate fusion of interior décor, landscaping, and art to strike a harmonious equilibrium between the interior and exterior domains.

A pivotal aspect of Lockyer’s sustainability approach involves utilising timeless, robust designs, with a focus on materials like concrete and timber, coupled with the incorporation of biophilic design. By harnessing these elements, he underscores the critical design elements of light, air, flow, and flexibility. Lockyer is of the view that when these elements are employed effectively, individuals tend to develop a profound affection for their homes, even as the functions of different rooms evolve over time and throughout the seasons.

“If you employ these elements correctly, people tend to cherish their homes and desire to spend time in them, even as the functions of certain rooms change over time,” says Shaun Lockyer, Lockyer Architects.

One remarkable project, Annie House, illustrates the potency of well-executed flow, air, and light, resulting in a seamless indoor/outdoor experience. Alongside these design principles, Lockyer Architects integrated Haiku I ceiling fans by Big Ass Fans to enhance air circulation and beckon occupants into each space. The residence steers clear of fleeting trends and, instead, concentrates on crafting a timeless charm that will withstand each season.

The use of board-form concrete in Annie House goes beyond mere walls; it extends to the roof and ceiling, representing an idea that is both ageless and contemporary. This choice not only imparts a sense of coolness and freshness but also permeates throughout the entire space during the sultry summer months. Lockyer’s incorporation of greenery onto the building itself, a recurrent motif in his work, underscores the importance of biophilic design. This deliberate connection to nature contributes to everyday health and well-being, nurturing a deeper affinity with the natural world while facilitating ventilation in tandem with the ceiling fans.

Shaun Lockyer’s architectural vision embodies the principles of sustainability, timeless design, and the infusion of nature into our constructed environments. By giving precedence to the seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor areas, employing enduring materials, and embracing biophilic design principles, Lockyer Architects crafts residences that endure the test of time while nurturing the well-being of their inhabitants.

For more information

Big Ass Fans

The post Shaun Lockyer’s Vision: Crafting Timeless Australian Homes with Nature and Sustainability appeared first on Completehome.

Aaron and Di completed a full-home reno in 2022 in Burleigh Waters, on the Gold Coast. “The original house was very closed in and did not make full use of the amazing canal views,” says Di.

“It was dated and ugly. We created an open-plan living set-up and added a second-storey parents’ retreat which looks out to the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland. In the original house, there was a sitting room/atrium that never got used, but we still liked the idea.

We used that in our reno and now we have a beautiful garden atrium that brings the outdoors in. Our home now has a timeless coastal feel which very much suits Gold Coast living!”

BEFORE IMAGES:

AFTER IMAGES:

Builder Hennessy Building Projects
Architect BDA Architecture
Photography Kristian van der Beek

View the whole Renovation of the Year Flipbook below:

The post Home Design Renovation of the Year Winner: Selamanya House appeared first on Completehome.

YAN RESIDENCE

The previous owners of this Caulfield North renovation had an appreciation for the dwelling’s original Art Deco features, says homeowner David Yan. “The existing front of the house was brought back to life, period features were refreshed and modern services were incorporated.

The existing area has the formal lounge and dining, plus a guest bedroom with WIR and ensuite. In the new rear extension, the ground-level living areas and three upper-level bedrooms all face north. The family room has large sliding doors opening up to both alfresco and yard. The new renovation is oriented towards the north to take in winter sun to warm up the house, and block out the sun in summer.”

Architect Vos Architecture + Design

BEFORE IMAGES

AFTER IMAGES:

Finalist 2:

LOCKYER ST PROJECT

Katrina and Claude Capelli say they absolutely love their renovation of their two-bedroom 1938 workers dwelling that’s now a five-bedroom family home. “The restored original Art Deco ceilings are our favourite feature of the home,” says Katrina.

“We enjoy having family and friends around on the new deck extension to share our home-made pizzas while taking in a view of Brisbane City. We’re looking forward to creating some fabulous memories in this home.”

Builder Accurate Building and Construction Greg Howatson
Interior designer KJK Interiors Karen Knust
Designer Elevate Design Studio Andrew Tamplin

BEFORE IMAGES

AFTER IMAGES

Finalist 3:

HARGRAVE COTTAGE, PADDINGTON

Sally Badger and Joshua Carolan rented this house for two years before it came on the market to buy. “It is a small, 100-year-old workers cottage which was made smaller by pokey rooms and disjointed indoor/outdoor living spaces,” says Sally. “The whole time we rented, we imagined what we would do if we owned the house, how we’d open it up, make it feel more spacious and liveable while keeping the character of the heritage home. This renovation is two years of imagining, thinking and iterating come to life, and it’s even better than we ever dreamed.”

Architect Michuru Higginbotham
Builder Insync Projects
Joiner NorthKeel Interiors

BEFORE IMAGES

AFTER IMAGES

Finalist 4:

SHOREWARD HOUSE

“The house is full of life again after 25 years of ‘it will do’ from the previous owners,” says homeowner Kate Hardy. “Very little structural work was done but everything in the house is new … floors, doors, skirts, hardware, etc. Our house is perfect for our active family and I love calling it home.”

Designer Kate Hardy
Builder Nu Edge Building Group

BEFORE IMAGES

AFTER IMAGES

Finalist 5:

FAMPTONS (HAMPTONS IN FLINDERS)

Ashleigh Murray and Ricky Cullen fell in love with the cul-de-sac street and potential of this house. “We knew it would be our home but it was very dated, with pink walls, cream accents and red brick. It was far from the Hamptons-inspired beach homes we loved. So we decided to bring the Hamptons to Flinders, NSW, instead,” says Ashleigh. Inside, the renovation includes detailed Intrim Mouldings wainscoting, high-end bathroom finishes, and floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking the pool. Outside includes a pool surrounded by limestone, white Polvin fencing, outdoor kitchen with Caesarstone benchtops, a keg, fridge and Hardiedeck. “It’s resort living and the perfect entertaining spaces for our personalities,” adds Ashleigh.

Builder Ben Purcell from Buildcast Group
Draftsman Michael Carson
Tiler Chris Renton from CR Elite Tiling
Electrician Paramount Electrical Solutions
Concreter RLine Civil
Plumbing and excavation Cullen Civil

BEFORE IMAGES

AFTER IMAGES

Finalist 6:

GREENACHE RESIDENCE

“As much as the mid-century kitchen still looked its part, it was time for an update,” says homeowner Sarah Nolen. “Our home now reflects our individual lifestyle: family life surrounding the kitchen island and feasting with friends and family. The dark and moody interior isn’t your classic look and that’s why we love it. It reflects our unique personalities and it provides a talking point for everyone who enters our front door. The home is now zoned in a way that provides ample space for multiple gatherings, whether it’s reading our toddler a book on the lounge or a 50-person barbecue on the back deck.”

Interior design, furniture curation and design management Birdblack Design
Builder Graeme Carberry Builder
Photographer Louise Wellington

BEFORE IMAGES

AFTER IMAGES

Finalist 7:

REIMAGINED OVERMAN, PEPPERMINT GROVE

“The original space was 1980s Overman-designed with curved lines, light and flow, but now contemporised architecture brings even more natural light into the home,” say homeowners Joanne and Michael Tait. “Gold accents, ‘braver’ tile choices and interesting design touches create a home. For example, a cellar door — it’s just a steel door with feature glass but bespoke for the room and speaks of quality and high-class finish. Powder and ensuite tiles are bold but in keeping with the overall design elements. The alfresco is now a lovely space, amplified with bifold doors from the kitchen, a good size, bright and private — essential for a Perth home with climate-necessitating functional indoor/outdoor space.”

Designer Peter Fryer
Builder Northside Developments — James McMurtie

BEFORE IMAGES

AFTER IMAGES

See below to view the whole flipbook from Home Design Magazine:

The post Home Design Renovation of the Year Finalists appeared first on Completehome.

What began as a modest wish for a skylight blossomed into an expansive first-floor extension and renovation, infusing the home in natural light and opening up spaces to cater to the family’s needs.

The ground floor has been thoughtfully reimagined into an inviting open-plan haven. The dim corners of the original home have vanished, replaced by a space where contemporary lines marry seamlessly with the home’s inherent charm. The result is a living space that effortlessly transitions from intimate family moments to chic social gatherings.

The first floor introduces added space in a contemporary style. Two generously sized bedrooms invite restful slumber. A meticulously designed bathroom becomes a retreat for unwinding, where daily stresses fade away. Yet, this floor isn’t solely a sanctuary for respite. A lounge and study offer areas for leisure and productivity, while a large walk-in wardrobe provides amble storage and smart organisation.

Combining elegant modern highlights with the home’s original period charm, this updated home provides very comfortable living with plenty of space for entertaining.

For more information

Attic Group

The post From Dull to Dazzling : A Spacious Transformation appeared first on Completehome.

The 2260 exhibitors from 49 countries included the following topics which might also become significant for the Australian building industry:

• Façade insulation and secondary façade insulation,
• Prefabrication and materials to streamline the building processes,
• Lifting equipment like small tower cranes to make work easier on the building site,
• Solutions to reduce or eliminate thermal bridging in building envelopes,
• Low and zero level thresholds with drainage and thermal breaks,
• Screws, bolts, connectors for the timber construction industry,
• Low VOC water-based timber finishes, paints, lasurs,
• Software apps to manage onsite work and service personnel,

The new NCC regulations require better building insulation as well as level entry points to buildings, all of which have already been done in Europe. Items that reduce thermal bridging can include tapes, foams or solutions for window installations. With the growth of solid timber construction (SIPS, CLT, etc) connectors become an important part, and particular screws, and of course low VOC timber finishes. Siegware has these items in stock in Australia and also ships to New Zealand.

It is more and more recognised in the European building industry that OH&S issues and time savings can be had with off-site prefabrication and with on-site lifting equipment rather than hiring a crane several times during construction whenever heavy items need to be installed or moved.

A new software app for window installers and service people has every information required in the one spot. It includes contact details, time management, invoicing, images and much more, and it is very easy to use.

“With the key themes of digital transformation, the future of living, resources and recycling, as well as modular building, the biggest challenges and trends of the moment have been perfectly mapped out. This year, BAU once again offered a great platform for creating future perspectives.” Says Felix Pakleppa, General Manager of the Central Association of the German Building Trade.

Visitors again gave BAU 2023 top marks with 98 per cent of those surveyed rating BAU as excellent to good.

Tony and Andrew also visited a number of our suppliers for further training while in Europe.

For more information

Paarhammer Windows & Doors

The post BAU Expo Munich | Paarhammer Windows & Doors appeared first on Completehome.