Best Homes Issue 2 - 2015 AU.pdf

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No. 2 AUS $9.95* NZ $11.95 (Both incl. GST)

homesBEST

YDNEY LIVINGowered by complete home.com.au

DIGITAL PARTNER

INSPIRING HOME DESIGNSLUXE LIVING

230 PAGES OFDREAM HOUSES,

KITCHENS, POOLS& OUTDOOR SPACES

LUXURY HOUSES & APARTMENTSIN GREATER SYDNEY



The HOUSE OF BAMBOO ® DifferenceSpecialists in bamboo and sustainable materials

Showroom: 13 Erith St, Botany 2019 T: 1300 665 703 E: [email protected] www.houseofbamboo.com.au



The House of Bamboo ® has been in the bambooindustry for over 40 years and is recognised

today as one of Australia’s leading suppliers.

Interior and Exterior Inspirations...

Showroom opening hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-3pm Find us on Facebook!



“An inspirationalbuilding experience.”

PO Box 475, Moorebank NSW 2170P (02) 9822 7799 E [email protected]

www.starrconstructions.com.au



BUILDERS

14 Neil Fletcher Design Melbourne contemporary

22 Starr Constructions Open-plan living

28 Starr Constructions Spacious design

34 Graeme Alexander Homes Hilltop haven

40 Canny Modern family home

56 Swanbuild Contemporary combo

62 ACG Building Industrial chic68 CMS Building & Design Sydney view nder

72 Bellemore Homes Art Deco opulence

78 Gremmo Homes Resort-style retreat85 SFN Constructions Heritage beauty

90 BDC Building Services

Family matters96 GJ Gardner Homes Modern functionality100 Jakin Constructions Renovation revamp106 Felton Homes Bliss in Bella Vista

KITCHENS110 CASF Australia Hub of the home114 CASF Australia Celebrity kitchen118 Dana Kitchens Luxe kitchen

POOLS & OUTDOORS126 Narellan Pools Family-friendly backyard130 A Total Concept Period style extravagance134 A Total Concept European summer home138 GOODMANORS Less is more

144 House of Bamboo

Screen play146 Crystal Pools Scenic Sydney150 ACG Building Balinese-style cabana154 Eco Design Garden party

158 Elite Garden Ornaments Feature of the garden

162 Pride Pools Swimming pretty

168 SiteDesign + Studios Cosy courtyard

176 Ground Control As good as new

180 To the Mil Family haven

186 Bisazza Mosaic masterpiece

188 Pride Pools Fun in the sun

190 Waterco Feeling fresh

1

contents

BEST HO

CONTENT



202

192 Insight Landscapes Contemporary class

194 Urban Escape Outdoor accessory

196 Landart Landscapes Entertaining in style

201 Harrison’s Landscaping Rooftop garden

206 Blinds by Peter Meyer

Outdoor lifestyle208 Markilux Australia Taking cover

212 Jade Pools Pool party

218 Dry-Treat A stone’s throw away

225 Credits226 Index

65 30

40

“The owner’s distinct choice of stone highlights a contemporaryand daring design. The unique choice of granite and timber

adds warmth, vibrancy and originality”— Karen Fullwood, Dana Kitchens

the coverCover design: Starr Constructions

Designer: Kate McKinnon

Photographer: Marian Riabic72

No.2 AUS$9.95* NZ$11.95(Bothincl.GST)

homes BEST

INSPIRING HOME DESIGNSLUXE LIVING

230 PAGES OFDREAM HOUSES,

KITCHENS, POOLS& OUTDOOR SPACES

LUXURY HOUSES & APARTMENTS

10 BEST HOMES

CONTENTS



You’ll be swimming with P r i d e

Pride Pools Pty Ltdabn 11 002 923 024 builders lic 37424

phone 9436 2711 fax 9436 3966email [email protected] www.pridepools.com.au

Multiple Award Winners Gold, Silver & Bronze

Darryl Walters and Richard Lawley from Pride Pools offer a verypersonal service, building all types of domestic pools, in-groundspas and splash pools.

We create geometric, formal and the most natural lookingpools. Comprehensive, fully detailed landscaped drawings aremade for every swimming pool.

No site is too difficult – we combine engineering excellence withinnovative architectural design.

Pride Pools has won many awards over the years, but ourgreatest satisfaction is in delivering a high quality pool to theclient. We are members of SPASA and HIA.

35 years of building innovativeswimming pools



BEST HO

Architects& Builders

Design inspiration for your dream home

Project by StarrConstructions



14 BEST HOMES

Modern composition Located in an established Melbourne suburb

with a diverse mix of homes, this site presented anopportunity for the owner and designer to explorethe possibilities of a contemporary insertion into

a varied and mature streetscapePhotography by Estate Imagery

Earthy hues and texturescreate a homely andcomfortable environment

MELBOURNE CONTEMPORARY



BEST HOM



16 BEST HOMES

The client’s main considerationsincluded taking advantage of the site’ssolar orientation, drawing naturallight into all spaces throughout the

building, visual connections from each room toexternal spaces, exibility of use and provisionof multiple living spaces to accommodate thechanging needs of a growing family.

An important aspect of the design processis collaboration and, with this house, theinteraction between designer and client hascreated a spectacular result. A rich tapestry

ABOVE The kitchen boasts smooth, stylishcontours and modern appliances




BEST HOM

of materials and textures adds visual interestto the front facade — indicating to thecasual observer the quality that lies within.The designer, Neil Fletcher Design, hastaken advantage of the visual and tactileappeal of natural materials, with horizontaltimber cladding and vertical timber battenscontrasting against the raw render nish of theground oor. The exposed aggregate drivewayand stepping stones to the front door frame thelow-maintenance front garden.

A wide pivot timber door opens to the entryarea where the organic theme continues. Apolished concrete slab on the ground oordiffuses natural light throughout the livingspaces, with extensive north-facing windowsoverlooking the pool area protected by agalvanised pergola. The internal wall to thegarage references the rst-oor cladding, withvertical battens providing a rich counterpointto the white-painted nish throughout therest of the house. The open-plan family

area includes a generous dining area and animpressive kitchen. The themes of externalvisual connections and the introduction ofnatural light are reinforced in the kitchen witha slot window providing views to a plantedgreen wall, as well as an expansive skylightooding light onto the work spaces from above.A discrete laundry, ofce, media room andbathroom complete the ground oor.

A double-height void connects the differentlevels, with timber and metal stairs providing

A rich tapestry of materials and textures adds visualinterest to the front facade — indicating to the casual

observer the quality that lies within



access to a large rumpus room at the centreof the rst oor. A master suite overlooks thestreet and pool with the walk-through robeleading to a luxurious bathroom, which isbeautifully appointed with a freestanding bathand wall-hung sanitary ttings. The rst ooralso provides an additional bathroom andthree further bedrooms.

Neil Fletcher Design has crafted an innovativesolution to the limited open space available onsuburban allotments for a family-sized pool.This particular pool has been constructedwith one side directly on the site boundary. Arendered-brick fence provides the backdrop tothis elegant design solution with three sides ofthe pool open to the expansive outdoor area. Thepool is a visual and functional focal point forall of the main living areas and can be accessedfrom each of the ground oor spaces as well asthe service area to the back of the house.

BEST HOM



20 BEST HOMES


The success of this collaborative processis demonstrated in the attention to detailthroughout the building, resulting in a versatile,spacious, contemporary home catering forthe current and future needs of a growingfamily. The house ts comfortably within itssurroundings, adding to the neighbourhood’srich and diverse architectural heritage.

Neil Fletcher Design specialises in providingbespoke design solutions for single dwellings aswell as multi-unit developments — continuingthe design service through to tender and contractadministration. The company has recently beenawarded the Building Designer’s Association ofVictoria award for Residential Design — Multi-Residential Over Six Dwellings. BH

more info?Neil Fletcher Design03 9772 9533fletcherdesign.com.au

LEFT A mix of different materials and textures

adds visual interest to the front facade



22 BEST HOMES

Modern marvel A contemporary home becomes the perfect t for

this young Australian family

OPEN PLAN LIVING

The entire ground floor has been builtas one large, open space, resulting ina bright and spacious living area thatflows out onto the alfresco living andother exterior spaces



BEST HOM



24 BEST HOMES

OPEN PLAN LIVING

The Australian climate and lifestylecalls for bright, open-plan homes withlarge alfresco areas that make themost of the warm summer sun. For

these particular homeowners, this was the dream— to create a light and spacious interior thatowed seamlessly between the indoors and out,suitable for entertaining and everyday familyliving. To help them achieve this dream, thehomeowners called upon Starr Constructions,a NSW-based team known for its extensivebuilding experience and precision to detail.

ABOVE The living area is cosy and comfortablefor the whole family to enjoyOPPOSITE PAGE The cantilevered redmahogany staircase is a stunning feature ofthe home and transforms this hallway from anotherwise empty, dull space



BEST HOM



TECTON GROUP

www.tectongroup.com.au T: (02) 8338 1883Platinum - Technology & Display Centre

Studio 28, Level 1, 69-73 O’Riordan St, Alexandria NSW 2015

award winningarchitects

+ interior designers

+ project managers+ builders

- Commercial- Industrial- Residential multi unit. luxury residences, duplexes. villas.

- Complex structures- Renovations & Extensions

- Child Care Centres- Council Submissions



28 BEST HOMES



out of the square A family home gets a modern twist with clean lines,

wide open spaces and a touch of luxuryPhotography by Marian Riabic

BEST HO

SPACIOUS DESI



A vacant block of land presents the opportunity to createsomething special without any of the hindrances that occurwhen a pre-existing structure lies in the way of your newabode. And that’s exactly what this Bella Vista, Sydney, home

was afforded.In a typical family residence, occupants tend to live on top of each

other and spaces are lled to the brim. This modern take on a familyhome prioritises space, and there’s plenty of it for a couple with twoyoung children. “The client wanted a spacious house in which theywould feel comfortable,” says Nino Sanzari from Starr Constructions.

Beginning from scratch, there was a considerable amount of work tobe completed, including a cinema, multi-car garage, courtyard, living andkitchen area, laundry, lounge room, dining room, four bedrooms and twobathrooms. Luckily, they were able to avoid calamities along the way.“There were no obstacles,” admits Nino.

The brief focused on the creation of a sleek space, so a neutralcolour palette was used to complement the open nature of the home.Furnishings in beige and brown with hints of silver and marble exude acalming atmosphere throughout. A timber oating staircase introducesan organic element into the home, serving as a feature of the house. Thestaircase also provides a view of the landscaped garden and pool, whichincludes a spa and cabana-style structure where swimmers can escapefrom the hot summer sun.

Boasting gardens overowing with green foliage, this home offersthe family the perfect weekend escape to enjoy time outside together,

as well as many private nooks where each person can relax andunwind. What more could you want from a family home? BH

more info?Starr Constructions

02 9822 7799

starrconstructions.com.au

30 BEST HOMES



HOME DES

SPACIOUS DESIGN

BEST HOM

SPACIOUS DESIGN



This modern take on a familyhome prioritises space, and

there’s plenty of it for a couplewith two young children

32 BEST HOMES

SPACIOUS DESIGN



Westside Showroom/ Factory 42 Queensland Road, Darra QLD 407

Northside Showroom 19 Robinson Road East, Virginia QLD 401

Email. [email protected]

Phone. 07 3371

www.danak i tchens .com.au

Contemporary elegance, traditional q



34 BEST HOMES

HILLTOP HAVEN

This home’s interior frames thespectacular views, with largeglass windows and bifold doorsbringing the outside in



BEST HOM

A timeless viewThis classic home has become the perfect retirement

plan with the most impressive outlook



36 BEST HOMES

The alfresco area providesunobstructed views of the harbourand bay and creates a welcomeextension of the living area



On top of a hill with spectacular views

over the Mornington township, harbourand bay, this 1031m² block of land, onwhich an old, at-roofed bro home

was originally situated, has been transformed intoa cosy, modern home for two retirees.

The owners purchased the block ve yearsago with the goal of building their dream homewhere they could retire. The peacefulness andoutlook of the site are what the couple fell inlove with and they desired a home that suitedits picturesque location.

Previously living on a larger farmlet, it was tobe a dramatic downsize for the couple, thereforeensuring the home didn’t feel small was veryimportant. The owners also have a considerable

number of hobbies and interests, such as cars,boats and simply tinkering with objects, so alarge workshop close to a small factory in scale,with high ceilings for hoists and a large enougharea to t their hobbies, was also desired.

Not only were the personal requests of thehomeowners important but the fact that thehome was to be built for retirees, hence avoidingstructural elements such as stairs, was a majorconsideration in the overall design.

The design and build was conducted andcompleted by Graeme Alexander Homes, whichhave taken full advantage of the sloping block andmarvellous views. A walk-up entrance garage,classic contemporary lines and a luxuriousglass facade are the rst things you see whenapproaching the home. A neutral palette with theaddition of timber and stone detailing creates theinitial warmth that continues into the interior.

A large open-plan kitchen/living/dining/alfrescoarea comprises the main space in the home andmakes the interior feel grand and spacious. Tallceilings and large windows add to this effect;however, the beautiful timber oorboards andselection of soft, textured furniture and furnishings

BEST HOM

The peacefulnessand outlook of

the site are whatthe couple fell

in love with andthey desired a

home that suitedits picturesque

location



38 BEST HOMES

HILLTOP HAVEN

offer the comfort and warmth that the owners wereused to. On this rst oor are also a bedroom,bathroom and study while another loft-style studyis tucked away on another oor above.

While simple nishes, interesting rooinesand windows help disguise the workshopbeneath the main living area, this is where thecouple spend most of their time, with two sparebedrooms, a lounge area, bathroom, storeroomsand a cellar also located on the ground oor.All in all, the homeowners are in awe of whatGraeme Alexander Homes has accomplishedand are so excited to have such an amazingspace to call home. BH

more info?Graeme Alexander Homes03 5975 4561gahomes.com.au

ABOVE The large open-plan kitchen/living/diningarea creates the spacious feel that the homeownerswere used to from their previous homeRIGHT Timber framing and stone pavingcomplement the neutral façade, while thelandscaping offers a pop of colour



PHONE OFFICE: 02 9999 1107 www.barnwell.com.au

• Family Business since 1922• Master Builders Association Member since 1937• Multi Excellence in Housing Awards Winner

• Design service from sketches to working drawings• Construction of quality new homes and additions• Sydney’s Northern Suburbs, Northern Beaches and surrounding areas

WINNER 2014



40 BEST HOMES

Built-in appliances andhandleless cabinetry providea seamless finish in thiscontemporary kitchen



CONTEMPORARY FAMILY HOME

BEST H

Embracing the new A young family get their dream home with a

knock-down/rebuild that offers everythingthey wanted and more

Photography by Derek Swalwell



42 BEST HOMES




The homeowners bought the property,which was originally a run-down blockthat housed a dark and claustrophobicdouble-storey rental home, with the

intention of knocking it down and rebuilding theirdream home. After attending a dinner party atLubelso’s Spring Road project, they fell in lovewith the company’s design aesthetic and knew itwas the style they were looking for.

The brief was to create an architecturallydesigned, contemporary home for a younggrowing family on a unique sloping block.“On the back of the success of the Spring Roadhome, our objective was to develop a similarfamily-friendly home that was more accessibleto a larger client base. We developed a cost-efcient oor plan that reduced the purchase

BEST HOM

OPPOSITE PAGE The 3m-high ceilings create asense of spaciousness to the interior spacesRIGHT Large, vibrant artworks add character andcolour to the open-plan living/dining area whilean impressive television unit hides all media andassociated wires and cables



44 BEST HOMES

price by 20 per cent without compromising theluxurious feel, sophistication and craftsmanshipthat is synonymous with the Lubelso name,” saysDamian Canny, founder of Lubelso, a division ofthe award-winning design rm Canny.

The result is a sleek, contemporary homethat looks and feels luxurious. From the street,the sharp lines and monochrome facade appearbold and daring, while the neutral colourpalette of the interior with grey and timberaccents creates a sense of warmth and comfort.The luxurious 3m-high ceilings throughout thehome provide a grandiose effect.

With the sleeping quarters upstairs comprisingthe master bedroom on one side and threegenerously sized bedrooms to the other, the groundoor is where this thoughtfully designed homereally shines. “The home carefully arranges thespaces to provide a connected mix of private andliving zones,” says Damian. “The family is able tospread themselves across the open-plan kitchen/

OPPOSITE PAGE TOP This bedroom continuesthe home’s minimal interior style but feels cosyand warm with the addition of sheer curtains,plush carpet and darker-toned bed linenOPPOSITE PAGE BOTTOM The bathroomsdisplay a sleek, clean palette of greys and whites



BEST HOM




46 BEST HOMES


dining/living areas, accommodating a numberof varying activities in the one space. This largeliving space is also connected to the alfresco areavia oor-to-ceiling sliding doors. The groundoor includes a separate formal living room that isconnected to two private courtyards along with a

study, which offers isolation via a full-height pivotdoor. Being located near the entry was specicallyimportant for the work-from-home client.”

With 20 years’ industry experience, theLubelso and Canny teams have produced a homethat requires less investment and time while stillachieving a design with architectural merit. “Itis the rst Lubelso home worth under a milliondollars,” says Damian. And with extras includinga 6-star energy rating , double-glazed windowsand internal wall insulation, it is no wonder thehomeowners are thrilled with the result.

Canny has received industry recognition onnumerous occasions, including winning theHousing Industry Association’s (HIA) Home of theYear (Victoria) in 2006, HIA Project Home of theYear (Australia) in 2013 and Overall Renovation/ Addition of the Year (Victoria) in 2013. BH

more info?Lubelso

0429 496 244

lubelso.com.au

“We developed a cost-effi cient oor planthat reduced the purchase price by 20 percent without compromising the luxurious

feel, sophistication and craftsmanship thatis synonymous with the Lubelso name” —

Damian Canny

ABOVE The minimalist style of this home’s interioris continued outdoors, creating a sense of cohesionLEFT From the street, you already get the sense thatthis is a designer home with a contemporary feel. Thearchitectural facade is certainly eye-catching



Advertising Feature

Aspect has a unique service, whichsensitively blends individual designrelevant to today’s lifestyles withpractical construction expertise.

With unparalleled excellence in authenticarchitectural diversity and more than a generationof experience, Aspect has become a benchmarkin the prestige residential marketplace offeringan all-inclusive service of building, interiors andlandscape design as well as project management.

Our philosophy at Aspect Designs is to combinedetailed and innovative concepts with a strong and

continual personal interaction with every client. Indoing this, we create a superior product reectingthe client’s self-expression and individuality,

Through our close relationship with ourpreferred builders and by co-ordinating all the vitallinks in the chain of constructing an individualhome, we are able to produce a superior resultand save you time and money through ourextensive experience.

Custom designed and built homes give you fullcontrol over the quality and function of your newhome. These homes are unique; they are designed

specically for you and the land on which youwant to build.Those desiring a home which expresses their

individuality will engage design professionalsto ensure their home is tailored to their needs.Because of their originality, custom homes willrequire more attention to detail and documentation.

The design team at Aspect will streamline thisprocess to ensure a superior result which will notonly greatly enhance your investment but ensuresthe success of their projects in a timely and costeffective manner.

OUR HOMES HAVE A CERTAIN AIR,A STYLE ... A STATUS. THEY AREDESIGNED FOR PEOPLE WHO WANTTO STATE THEIR APPRECIATIONFOR AESTHETICS IN A SUBTLEWAY ... A LASTING WAY.

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MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION AWARDS

‘Best Metropolitan Home’ in the open category‘Best Exhibition Home’ in its price range - The Asp‘Most Innovative Design’ in its category‘Best Metropolitan Home’ in its price categoryfor 7 consecutive years‘Best Exhibition Home’ in its category‘Exhibition Home of the Year’ - open category

Advertising Featu



Advertising Feature

... add thatextra touch ofsophistication

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To complement the architectural intent ofyour home , Aspect offers an Interior DesignService that will enhance your individual design.This service will ensure that your home has apersonal feel and of course, add that extra touchof style and sophistication.

Few of us have a natural air when selectingcolours, ttings and furniture that will suit the styleof our home and make the best use of space. Wemay often have a mental image or an idea of theatmosphere we would like in our home, but tryingto make that a reality can be quite a challenge.

This is where the expertise of an Interior Designis called upon.

An Interior Designer will combine your visionpersonal requirements, and the ow and layoutof the home to create a stunning home thatcomplements, and enhances your individual styleInterior designers are connoisseurs in their eld,highly skilled in colour, textures and materialsselection with the ultimate goal or not only makia particular living space look great, but functionperfectly as well. They also have access to a whohost of suppliers and products not necessarilyavailable directly to the public.

Our designers have won many awards fortheir talent in combining unique design withfunctionality for both the interior and exteriorof our homes.

AWARDS FOR INTERIOR DESIGN

‘Best Bathroom’‘Best Kitchen’ - for 3 consecutive years‘Best (innovative) use of brickwork’‘Best (innovative) use of paint’

HOUSING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION AWARDS

‘Home of the Year’ trophy - open category‘Most Innovative Design’‘Best Workmanship’‘Best Metropolitan Home’ in its category for3 consecutive years



Advertising Feature

To complete the overall lifestyle design andensure your home is integrated with the outdoors,Aspect offers experienced, personalised and costeffective design services within our group for youroutdoor rooms, pools and gardens.

The service includes consultation, design,specications, approvals, works tenders, trade

recommendation, complete project managementand contract administration. Landscape Designand Construction is a long-term investmentfor your living environment and, if planned inconjunction with your home, will be tailoredto your lifestyle and enhance the enjoyment ofyour home. A well-designed landscape garden

which seamlessly integrates your home with pool,garden, outdoor entertaining areas, tennis courtand front entry will increase the functionalityof your indoor/outdoor spaces and will addsubstantial value to your home.

The continued recognition received from bothclients and industry piers demonstrates



Advertising Featu

D E S I G N S . C O M . A U

an appreciation of our philosophy. For 35 yearsAspect has had a professional hands on approachwhich has helped our clients express theirindividuality and style and won a plethora ofmajor awards and commendations for innovativedesign, quality workmanship, interiors andlandscaping.

more info?Aspect Designs0418 460 714aspectdesigns.com.au

OTHER AWARDS

‘Best Residential Development’- Liverpool City Council‘Environmental Design Awards’James Hardie Design Award for‘Composite Construction’Baulkham Hills Shire Council Awardfor ‘Most Innovative Design Concept’‘Pool Awards’ (designed by Aspect)‘MBA Residential Concrete Pool’ - 2012‘SPASA Residential Concrete Pools’ - 2014



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56 BEST HOMES

Versatility in all forms A design that’s both stylish and adaptable



BEST HOM

CONTEMPORARY COMBO

The Contempo 3 by Swanbuild Homesaims to achieve striking, contemporarydesign with a combination of outdoornishes and modern straight lines.

Swanbuild has designed the Contempo 3 to be just like its name, modern and contemporary witha vibrant splash of colour that can be incorporatedthroughout the interior of the home.

Boasting three bedrooms, each with a built-inrobe, two bathrooms, a lounge and family room

with walk-in pantry, the home was conceptualisedas an open-plan living environment.

An array of optional extras enhances thehomeowner’s unique sensibilities. Theseinclude multiple cladding to the perimeter,xed-glass shower screens, glass kitchensplashback and timber-look tiles in the family,meals and kitchen areas.

The Contempo 3 is not the sort of home thatwill be lost in its surrounds but instead will stand

ABOVE Optional extras include timber-looktiles in the family, meals and kitchen areasABOVE RIGHT Combining differenttextures in the interior design provides acontemporary and modern feel



58 BEST HOMES

as a feature of the street. Swanbuild Homes hasincorporated a split-skillion roof into the design,a vital element that brings light and life into thespacious, open-living design from every angle.The home is complemented by the landscapingand shrubbery that surround its exterior.

Family-owned and -operated, SwanbuildHomes is a fully licensed building rm withmore than 30 years’ industry experience. Thecompany specialises in the highest-qualitytransportable buildings, offering everything fromdeluxe, prestige estates and practical custom-built homes to small, modern weekend retreats,with the option of extending later. With theContempo 3, Swanbuild has created a stylishand practical family living environment.

With a seven-year structural guarantee,12-month maintenance period and all appliancewarranties taken care of, Swanbuild’s efcientmanufacturing process ensures homeownersneedn’t worry about a long and difcult building



BEST HOM

CONTEMPORARY COMBO

period as homes are constructed in a purpose-builtmanufacturing plant before being transported tothe site. No time is lost due to bad weather, on-site vandalism or pilfering and there is the addedbonus of knowing exactly when you can move in.

The Contempo 3 design provides astress-free building process that results in amultifunctional and efcient design, perfectfor the modern family. BH

more info?Swanbuild Homes

1800 008 024 or 03 5036 0000

swanbuild.com.au

Swanbuild Homes hasincorporated a split-skillion roofto the Contempo 3 design, a vitaelement to bringing light and lifeinto the spacious, open-livingdesign from every angle

OPPOSITE TOP The spacious design isgreat for growing families.OPPOSITE BOTTOM The master bedroomis complete with walk-in robeABOVE A modern bathroom designABOVE RIGHT An outdoor area is perfectfor entertainingRIGHT Swanbuild guarantees buildingquality is second to none



Find your own sense of place in a waterfront habitat you won’t find

anywhere else in Australia. Homeowners at Trinity Point are those

shunning the rapid pace of the city for the relaxing vibe of this new

world standard marina village. Surrounded by water on three sides,

Trinity point is complemented by luxury waterside residences,

boutique hotel, restaurant, café, health and well-being centre

and a wide range of f itness and leisure activities.

The architecturally designed residences at Trinity Point will

have a distinctly modern aestheti c, and have been envisaged

for the future. Come and reimagine your life at Trinity Point,

and build your dream ho me on the shores of beautiful Lake

Macquarie, only 88 minutes north of Sydney.

T R I N I T Y P O I N T . C O M . A U



TRINITY POINT IS A PLACE FOR

THE PIONEER, THE DOERAND THE VISIONARY.

EER, THE DOERE VISIONARY.

AARCHITECT IMPRESSION

A

TRINITY POINT DRIVE, TRINITY POINT, MORISSET PARK 1300 888 888



62 BEST HOMES

INDUSTRIAL CHIC

The open-plan living areacreates a spacious, bright andcomfortable environment for thewhole family to enjoy



BEST HOM

Got it allThe combination of a clever design team and

a centrally located block has resulted in abuilding that provides for its residents while also

complementing its environment Photography by Reg Blunt of EMB Photographics



64 BEST HOMES

INDUSTRIAL CHIC

Known for its live performance andrestaurant culture, the suburb ofEnmore in Sydney’s inner west offers aunique display of elements both young

and old. The streets are lined with quaint heritage-style homes while the walls of buildings arecovered in grafti — a characteristic that has beenturned into a feature of this new development.

Inspired by the vibrancy of the grafti-covered walls and the retro feel of thesurrounding area, ACG Building, together withAlec Pappas Architects, transformed a neglectedcommercial building into a multifunctional,four-storey hub in Enmore’s town centre. Withcommercial spaces on the ground oor, the toplevels host one- and two-bedroom apartmentsthat evoke a modern, industrial feel with light-lled interiors and contemporary furnishings.Bold accent pieces pay homage to the graftithat now marks the walls of this new block.



OPPOSITE PAGE TOP The open-plan livingarea creates a spacious, bright and comfortableenvironment for the whole family to enjoyOPPOSITE PAGE BOTTOM The kitchen offers aclean, contemporary design with a white palette thatcontrasts beautifully with the timber floorboardsABOVE AND RIGHT The bedrooms feature a neutralcolour palette with vibrant accent pieces that pop



66 BEST HOMES

INDUSTRIAL CHIC

Not only are the apartments’ interior nishessomething to rave about, but the buildingmaterials and xtures are rst class also.

The building’s concrete-constructed walls lookexquisite from street view and complement thebuilding’s industrial style. On the inside, heavy-duty insulation was added to soundproof eachapartment from the noisy streets, as well as to helpmaintain the temperature of the interior. Double-glazed windows also contribute to each apartment’sinsulated qualities and skylights were added in thetop two units to make full use of natural light.

While Peter Phokos of ACG Building admitsthere were numerous challenges to overcomeduring the building process — such as theneed to strengthen the building’s foundations,

run gas, electricity and water lines to the newoors, and ensure the retro, industrial stylewas maintained throughout the block — heand his team are incredibly happy with theend result. The building suits its location yetreects the modern era in which it was builtand, most importantly, provides a light, bright,comfortable home for the new residents in thecentre of a vibrant Sydney suburb. BH

more info?ACG Building0412 861 393acgbuilding.com.au

TOP LEFT The corridors and lobby showcase theindustrial style that was the initial inspiration forthe developmentABOVE The professional graffiti that was paintedon the rear of the building provides a true senseof character

Bold accent pieces payhomage to the graffi tithat now marks the

walls of this new block



Initially just a standard residence in a greatlocation, this 15th-oor apartment wasn’ttaking advantage of its positioning on thenorth-east corner of a Potts Point block.

The interior was also in desperate need of anupdate and so CMS Project Management &Construction, together with Graphite Architects,was given the task of turning this apartmentinto an entertainer’s oasis that encapsulated thepicture-perfect scenery outside.

Residing in this apartment is a single,professional woman who desired a luxurious,contemporary home that was both bright andwarm, and truly made the most of the views ofWatson’s Bay and around to the Sydney OperaHouse and Harbour Bridge. “The client briefwas to totally strip the apartment and create aluxurious and stylish living space that wouldalso be perfect for entertaining. She wantedto enjoy the amazing views from every room,

including the ensuite. All nishes were to reectcurrent design trends and incorporate state-of-the-art technology. The client also wanted thenishes to be minimalist and maintenance-freeto suit her busy lifestyle,” says CMS ProjectManagement & Construction’s David Lavings.

Working in an apartment block was achallenge both due to the close proximity ofthe neighbours and the limited working spaceavailable. “We ensured that residents were not

68 BEST HOMES

Sky’s the limitThis apartment’s new design makes the most

of its extraordinary outlook



ABOVE Positioned on the 15th floor, north-eastcorner of a Potts Point block, this apartment has180-degree views from Watsons Bay and around toSydney Opera House and the Harbour BridgeTOP RIGHT The open-plan living area displays thepinnacle of luxury and sophistication, incorporatinga chef-style kitchen, fully insulated and acousticwalls, heated flooring and a Dynalite automated-control system that manages the lighting, soundsystem, television and motorised blinds

BEST HOM

SYDNEY VIEW FINDER



ABOVE Even the ensuite has access to thepicture-perfect views

disrupted and endeavoured to keep the noise toa minimum with strict time limits” and a highlyorganised delivery schedule for materials anduse of the lift, says David.

By completely stripping the apartment, thedesign and construction team have achievedan exquisite interior that ticks all the boxes,including incorporating that glorious view intothe overall design. With an expansive open-plan living area and superior-quality nishes,the materials used ensure a luxurious feelthroughout the entire apartment. BH

more info?CMS Project Management & Construction02 9905 3511cmsprojects.com.au

70 BEST HOMES

SYDNEY VIEW FINDER



CMS Project Management and Constructionare proud to be associated with the 2014MBA NSW Excellence in Housing Awardsand are the happy winners of twoExcellence in Housing awards for 2014.

• 2014 Winner – Home UnitRenovation open category

• 2014 Winner – House Renovation$800,00-1,000,000

• 2006 Winner - CommercialRenovation up to $5 Million

The judges’ comments included “All trade

nishes throughout were nished to thehighest standard.”

“The design and construction was of avery high standard which is reected in theselection of nishes, joinery and standardof workmanship.”

CMS’s construction division can providea variety of construction options includingdesign and construction, specialising in:

• Residential• Commercial• Hospitality and Retail• Education• Refurbishments & Fitouts

• Fire Safety Upgrade

WINNER 2014Suite 326, 20 Dale Street,

Brookvale NSW 2100

Phone: 02 9905 3511www.cmsprojects.com.au

Building Partnerships



72 BEST HOMES

ART DECO OPULENCE

A contemporary baroqueambience creates a certain magicin the home’s living areas



Despite its high design aims and the latestbuilding and electronic technologies it

employs, it is a friendly home, perfect forthe entertainer and the family

74 BEST HOMES

ART DECO OPULENCE

The moment you swing open the full-height pivot door on the new Montagefrom Bellemore Homes, you understandthis is no ordinary residence. Lavished

with glossy opulence layered over every detail,from the entry hall to the ensuite bathroom, thisabode is a long way from the everyday.

Once inside the front door, a grand entrysequence draws visitors into an interior thatluxuriously blends a contemporary baroqueambience, much like that of famous Frenchdesigner Philippe Starck, with monochromaticdrama that leaps right from the Art Deco era.

The double-height void inside the front doorpassionately states the bold intentions of thishome. An informal lounge with a contemporaryreplace sits next to a striking bespoke brushed-metal artwork that curtains the stairway. Thepolished gas replace is decidedly 21st century,and the lounge is the perfect place to relax andtake in the uncommon warmth of this house.

Despite its high design aims and the latestbuilding and electronic technologies it employs, itis a friendly home, perfect for the entertainer and

ABOVE The spacious, modern kitchencommands attentionLEFT The outdoor area continues themonochromatic tones but introduces a punchybright green from the plants, creating a minimalyet chic outdoor environmentOPPOSITE PAGE Dramatic opulence stems fromthe use of monochromatic styling



BEST HOM



76 BEST HOMES

ART DECO OPULENCE

the family. Large-format, high-gloss white tilesline the oor as it broadens towards the kitchenand informal dining room. Every conveniencehas been thought of to ensure the kitchen is notonly a generous place to cook, but also operatesas the hub of the home. An LCD televisionmounted seamlessly into the joinery, easy-gliding

Blum drawers and cupboards, a prominentand accommodating island bench with Smeginduction cooktop and a contemporary exhaustrangehood make for a functional showpiece.

The dining area connects directly to the kitchenfor ease of preparation and to ensure the cookisn’t separated from the conversation. To the rearis a retreat that could be used as a media room,teenagers’ getaway or formal lounge. Generouslyproportioned, the lowered ceiling height in thisspace serves to make it cosy and intimate.

A ground-oor powder room and ofcecomplete the amenities, with a terraced deckadjoining the living area, topped off with astriking water feature and sunshade.

The stairs lead up to a landing and internalbridge that separates the master bedroom andensuite from the remainder of the level. Even thecustom-made elliptical handrail in the stairwellreects the quality that is the hallmark of thishouse. The size of the main bedroom echoesthe generous dimensions found downstairs. Thebedroom is in essence an individual wing of thehouse, just the place for a Sunday lie-in and along relaxing shower before fronting the day.

Beyond doubt, the headline feature of thishome is the ensuite bathroom. Finished in small,glass mosaic tiles that glint and glitter in thelight, the room makes a statement about thecraft and ambition of this design. The Villeroy& Boch ttings have been carefully chosen fortheir sculptural qualities, which are strikingly

individual and beautifully resolved. A recessedrain shower in the ceiling and extravagant blackhandbasins point to a keen eye for the deco era.This is a bathroom that brings a smile to the facewhile calming the spirit. The remainder of theupper oor contains three additional bedrooms,each brightly ooded with natural light and veryaccommodating for a growing family.

Outside, the home features a double lockupgarage that can be accessed internally. Thefacade is a contemporary take on clean modernistlines, with a beautifully textured Japanese tilefeature that serves to visually break up the ampleproportions of the house. The ambitions of thishome are considerable: catering for a large family,robust but glamorous, perfect for entertainingand with a style all its own. Ambitious yes butexecuted with lavish aplomb. BH

more info?Bellemore Homes

03 9887 8984

bellemorehomes.com.au

ABOVE Extravagant design choices in thebathroom calm the spiritBELOW The facade is a smooth, unique fusionof grey and white, from the architecture to thedriveway and garden pebbles



Because one sizenever ts all

Every family is different and so is the perfect home. That’s why we offer

you total design exibility. We give you the choice to modify one of our

current designs or custom design a new home from scratch. It is our way

of making sure you receive exactly what you want from your new home,

including the façade. First impressions count and the right façade should

be as individual as the people inside, so whether you’ve got a picture in

your mind, an image sketched on paper or complete architectural plans,

talk to our experts today about bringing your dream home to life.

1300 WINCREST (1300 946 273) Central Coast, Newcastle & Hunter | 4351 0995W | wincrest.com.au E | [email protected]



78 BEST HOMES

RESORT STYLE RETREAT

The relaxed interior features plenty ofspace for socialising and is finished witha neutral palette dotted with bursts ofmoody-hued accessories



BEST HO

Elegant escape A request for an elegant home for a busy family spawned this modern design

Photography by Ian Mainsbridge



80 BEST HOMES


White wall surfaces and stone benchtopsare offset by the reflective mirroredsplashback and custom-designed metalbulkhead in the sleek kitchen



82 BEST HOMES


exude a homely feel by using natural materialsthat produce variations in texture. “Recycledtimber ooring, random quartz stonecladding and honed travertine help soften theexpansiveness of the home,” says Richard.

The kitchen reects modern minimalistdesign at its best. White wall surfaces and stonebenchtops are offset by the reective mirroredsplashback and custom-designed metal bulkhead.It’s a sleek and stylish nish that plays withtexture. The island bench complements thefamily’s needs, along with a large concealedpantry, Smeg appliances and European tapware.

The crowning glory of this immaculate homeis undoubtedly the outdoor area. You’d beforgiven for thinking you were stepping into aholiday resort in this dreamy space. It’s been

designed to accommodate a growing familyand caters beautifully for entertaining. Thealfresco area captures a bushland vista whilemaintaining a private yet expansive pool andentertaining core. This central focus is a beaconfor fun in the sun, with a complementingoutdoor kitchen that features high-endappliances. It’s the perfect spot to entertainguests or simply relax, with a glorious swim-upbar in the pool and timber-decked pods that areperfect for a lazy summer’s day.

A feature pond with ambient lighting andorganic quartz stone cladding is an addedtouch of resort-inspired design. Honestmaterials, such as recycled timber decking andlush green plants, including the two statementPhoenix palms, complement the modern

exterior. This design won Gremmo Homesseveral awards at the 2011 Hills Building andDesign Awards, most notably the award forOverall Excellence in Building. The homeis a great example of modern style meetsrustic nature, as Gremmo Homes has enabledthe two opposing elements to become one,bringing to life a luxurious family dwellingthat boasts contemporary air framed by afascinating raw backdrop. BH

more info?Gremmo Homes02 9629 9509gremmohomes.com.au

Luxury ttings are peppered

throughout the structure,which boasts innovativeenvironmental design



BEST HOM

HERITAGE BEAUTY

Old-world

charm In a federation suburb of Sydney

old meets new in this charmingheritage home

Photography by Josh Vernon-Rogers

The home’s facade featuresvarious characteristics typicalof a federation bungalow,including white-painted windowframes, red-brick pathways in aherringbone pattern, tall, corbel-top chimneys, a front verandah,luscious green garden and adecorative gable

BEST HOM



86 BEST HOMES

HERITAGE BEAUTY

An unpreserved federation home inthe quaint suburb of Habereldin Sydney’s inner west was indire need of a makeover, but with

heritage-listed properties comes complicatedbuilding codes, as well as costly materials andprocedures. SFN Constructions together withFilmer Architects were called upon to return thishome to its original charm with the addition of afew modern touches.

The brief for this project was to restore afederation home for a family with three youngchildren. “The family desired a functional homewith a spacious area for entertaining,” saysFrank Sciacca from SFN Constructions. “Theproperty was heritage listed so it was importantto comply with existing building codes yet stillcreate a contemporary feel.”

With the front of the home needing only aminor facelift, it was the existing rear structure,which was a mix of unpreserved federation



88 BEST HOMES

laid in a herringbone pattern pays homage to thehome’s history and creates a unique interior styleand warmth. Luxurious, modern additions includethe New York honed-marble kitchen benchtop,butler’s pantry, self-contained cabana, swimmingpool and, at the homeowners’ special request, abasement wine cellar.

A perfect representation of how federationhomes can be brought into the 21st century,this Habereld beauty is a testament to thepeople who envisioned this project and thosethat brought it to life. “In this project, we haveachieved a high level of nish, with spaciousliving and entertaining areas that full acontemporary lifestyle while maintainingthe home’s presence in the heritage area ofHabereld,” concludes Frank. BH

more info?SFN Constructions Pty Ltd02 9550 0911sfnconstructions.com.au

HERITAGE BEAUTY

ABOVE The backyard offers the homeowners theentertaining space they desired and plenty of roomfor the young kids to run around



A

Please contact us for an immediate quote (03) 9768 0823 | Visitwww.myalfresco.com for full listing of national display centres

Showroom – 40-44 Mark Anthony Drive, Dandenong South. Victoria 3175

My.com

MyAlfresco offer you Australia’struly all weather outdoor kitchen system

Here at MyAlfresco, we understand that Australove the outdoors – we love nothing more

entertaining family and friends in our own backyard. Wea range of pre-designed outdoor kitchen packages (inclu

a complete range of outdoor cooking appliances) or the abildesign your own to suit your dream alfr

MyAlfresco – “More than just life, it’s a lifest

Complete your drea

Complete Outdoor Kitchen Solutions



90 BEST HOMES



MORE TO L

BEST

Family matters A complete redesign and rebuild

provides a family of 11 with room to move



92 BEST HOMES



MORE TO LOV

BEST HO

In the laid-back suburb of Manly onSydney’s Northern Beaches, Jules,Simon and their nine children were atight t in the basic building they called

home. Desperate for some tender loving carefor their home, Jules and Simon recruitedBDC Building Services and architect Gabbie

Mitchell to redesign and rebuild their home toaccommodate their large family and create aresort-style living environment.

Although the homeowners desired a modern,contemporary home, their main concern wasthat the new space would provide plenty ofroom for the children to feel comfortable

“As always, the budget was limited butwas soon thrown out the window when Jules and Simon could see what wasbeing done and what was able to be

achieved” — Brett Blandin de Chalain, BDC Building Services



94 BEST HOMES

and not on top of one another. The homewas to have spaces, such as the living anddining areas, where the family could spendtime together, but it also needed to respecteveryone’s privacy. To achieve this, BDCBuilding Services and Gabbie got to work andthe result was a refurbishment of the entireground oor and a redesign of all the rooms,plus an extension to the rear of the home, aswell as a complete rebuild of the rst oor.

With nine children to support between the agesof six and 19, with two about to sit their HigherSchool Certicates, money and time were of theessence. A strict deadline was set for when theproject had to be completed and Jules and Simonwere originally nervous about the plans for a totalredesign/rebuild. “As always, the budget waslimited but was soon thrown out the window whenJules and Simon could see what was being doneand what was able to be achieved,” says BDCBuilding Services’ Brett Blandin de Chalain.

While a few major structural changes and theneed for a ood-risk assessment due to the locationof the home posed challenges during construction,the build was completed in time and thehomeowners are absolutely thrilled with the result.With clean, crisp interior nishes and open-planliving quarters, the feel of the home has completelychanged. Certainly now offering the resort-stylefeel that Jules and Simon were after, the additionof extra bedrooms, a rear extension and rebuild

of the rst oor have achieved the ultimate goal:to provide the children with ample privacy andcomfort. Overall, happy homeowners equal asatised builder and a successful construction. B

more info?BDC Building Services0438 696 365bdcbuilding.com.au

MORE TO LOVE



Contact Brett Blandin de Chalain on 0438 696 365

www.bdcbuilding.com.au ABN: 46 518 688 073

WINNER 2013Traditionally

built modernexecution



MODERN FUNCTIONALITY

This display home was designed fromthe popular Coolum plan, but has

been enlarged to 300 square metres

BEST HOM



98 BEST HOMES

MODERN FUNCTIONALITY

This practical and attractive familyhome is situated in the heart ofone of Coffs Harbour’s newestresidential areas, North Sapphire

Estate. The 300m² display home has beendesigned from one of G.J. Gardner’s mostpopular family plans, the Coolum. But G.J.Gardner clients can choose from more than 90G.J. Gardner home plans, all with the freedomto modify them to suit your land, lifestyle andbudget. As custom builders, G.J. Gardner hasthe exibility to cater to your needs.

Managers of G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs HarbourRick and Susan Fischer say that they know fromexperience why this design is so popular.

“We have lived in this home previouslywith our three young children and know whata fantastic design it really is, so we wantedto showcase the home to our clients so theycan experience what we had the pleasure ofenjoying,” they said.

PRACTICAL AND COMFORTABLE

Functionality is the key to this bright andvibrant residence. Designed around a central



BEST HOM

open-plan living hub, the dining and livingspace interconnect directly through a slidingcorner door. The large tiled alfresco area has acomfortable built-in day seat and coffee table to

take advantage of our great climate.The spacious galley-style kitchen features

luxurious stone benchtops with waterfall endpanels, a walk-in pantry, integrated LED lightingand oodles of drawer and cabinet space. Ithas been tted out with luxury stainless-steelngerprint-proof Smeg appliances including aThermoseal oven, frameless ceramic cooktopand the clean lines of a rangehood concealedwithin the overhead cupboards.

Located at the front of the home, the masterbedroom features a well-appointed ensuitewith double-sized shower with his and hersshowerheads. As you walk down the hall to thefamily bedrooms, you will be guided by thesmart sensor lights that turn on automaticallywhen they detect movement, perfect for thekids to make their way to the bathroom duringthe night. There is a practical activity roomthat leads onto the alfresco area giving childrenplenty of room to play both inside and outside.

At the entry of the home there is a functionalstudy with a cavity sliding door for privacy.The home also has the added luxury of aseparate home theatre room with a custom-

made media unit, giving plenty of storage forall the latest media equipment.

A natural colour scheme has been selectedwith stunning porcelain oor tiles throughoutthe living areas of the home, providing aglossy yet durable oor surface, perfect forthe minimal requirements of the contemporarydesign. Carpet in the bedrooms, lounge andofce is extremely hard-wearing, crush-resistantand yet luxuriously soft, to withstand the mostdemanding of households.

A modern minimalist style has been selectedfor the facade of the home, complementedby the Colorbond metal roof, providingoutstanding sound insulation, excellent strengthand thermal mass advantages.

There is an overall sense of space, lightand calm. It’s all about family living andentertainment in this home but at whatever levelyou wish to build, the G.J. Gardner Homes teamis driven by an expectation of excellence anddesire to give personal attention to every detail.Their exibility is why G.J. Gardner Homes hassuccessfully built more than 20,000 homes, allof them different. BH

more info?G.J. Gardner Homes07 5444 1099gjgardner.com.au

ABOVE AND RIGHT The use of wood throughoutthe home, from the front door to the bathroom, givesthe modern design a warm and inviting feel



100 BEST HOMES

RENOVATION REVAMP

Sliding glass doors andclerestory windows open up theliving space and bring in much-welcome natural light



BEST HO

Shape up Functional family spaces,

fused with stately charm, allow

this Victorian period home toreconnect with the past in themost delightful way

Photography by Sue Stubbs



BEST HOME

many small rooms, one room being completelyunusable,” explains James.

Now, every renovated room is an amalgamationof shapes and contours. The kitchen is blessedwith a high ceiling, which is lled with beautifuland functional ttings and ingenious lightingsolutions. A high ceiling is a pendant light’sbest friend and in this home, the height has beenlled perfectly with a number of industrial-stylependants that grace the empty void above thekitchen benchtop and add intrigue.

The bathroom is a beautifully designedspace that combines dark, moody hues with

sensual shapes to create the ultimate luxuriouskick-back-and-relax room. Striking andelegant pendant lights hang in the corner anda showerhead that seems to mimic a waterdroplet oats in the room. While not the largestspace, the bathroom cleverly incorporates afreestanding bath, shower and all the essentialswithout seeming cramped.

The dark, dingy spaces have been opened upand modernised expertly. Large open areas andowing, interconnected spaces make this homeworthy of mention and are what enabled it to benominated for the Master Builders Association

OPPOSITE PAGE The kitchen was part of therebuild and is therefore all brand new. Stone andtimber make the kitchen feel modern withoutcreating too much of a separation from the traditionalfeatures of the homeABOVE The rooftop area makes the most of thelocation, and large glass bifold doors allow for indoorand outdoor entertaining all year round



104 BEST HOMES

RENOVATION REVAMP

Excellence in Housing Awards. Everywhere youturn, there are eye-catching shapes that facilitateand enhance the entry of light. Skylights paired

with windows in entryways allow natural lightto stream through in an interesting and diversemanner and while there are many originalfeatures still within the home, they have beenbeautifully balanced out and highlighted by thecontemporary additions.

Creating liveable, functional and openspaces is key to a young family’s happinessand wellbeing, especially when you have busyworking days and small children. For thisfamily in particular, it was integral to creatinga home where they could entertain friends andmake the most of large areas owing out to thegarden. Special design considerations make thishome exceptional. A green living roof on the

upper level, which is overlooked by the masterbedroom, is a unique feature that you don’t oftensee in an inner-city suburb of Sydney.

“This rooftop garden is particularly special asnot only does it serve to look beautiful, but it isused specically over the rear extension for itsthermal and acoustic insulation properties and toaid storm water retention,” says James.

The use of a green roof adds an eco-friendlyelement to the design and is complementedby the energy-efcient low-E glass used inthe glazing, the louvre Hi-Light windowsimplemented for cross ventilation and therainwater tanks for garden irrigation.

The green roof, while energy-efcient, wasalso the biggest splurge throughout the project.A rst in Mosman, it was one of the moredifcult elements to get through Council.

However, the green roof wasn’t the onlyelement of the design that posed a challenge.“Clean lines and clever lighting, the exposedstructural steel frame to the rear, the bifold doorsand joinery that seamlessly ows from interior toexterior were all things that also required specialdesign consideration,” explains James. “But the

ABOVE AND OPPOSITE PAGE Both bathroomsare very modern and sensual, fitted-out with moody

hues and gorgeous accent pendant lights

While not thelargest space, thebathroom cleverly

incorporates a freestanding bath, shower and all theessentials without seeming cramped

links between the existing cottage and facadeat the front to the modern extension at the rearand the rear open kitchen-living room that owseffortlessly out to the back deck and barbecue arewhat make this home really special.” BH

more info?Jakin Constructions1300 769 424

jakinconstructions.com.au; jakin.com.au



BEST HOME



Georgian grace A display home in Sydney’s Bella Vista Waters balancesconsidered design with truly luxurious features

106 BEST HOMES



BLISS IN BELLA VISTA

BEST HOME

The attention to detail in this grandGeorgian-inspired home is evidentfrom the moment you step into itsimpressive lobby, where inlaid marble

oors, highly detailed carved timber doors anda sweeping staircase make for a truly stunningentrance. To the right, the formal lounge makesa similar, albeit slightly softer, impact withits pearlescent wall coverings, subtle lightingand Real Flame gas replace that ickers in aspectacular oor-to-ceiling marble hearth.

Built by Felton Constructions, this displayhome in Sydney’s Bella Vista Waters is anexample of the craftsmanship the companyis renowned for. The building is not a projecthome, but rather a showcase of design featuresand the products Felton uses to inspire clients’own plans. “It showcases what traditionalbuilders are all about,” says architect and builderMichael Milosevic. “It’s somewhere you can goto see detail, workmanship and quality.” Andthere’s plenty to inspire, from the home’s high,coffered ceilings with elegant, plaster cornicesto the staircase’s ornate wrought-iron balustradeand dark-timber stairs. French and bifold doors

throughout the home have been proportionedto accentuate its vertical dimensions whilereecting the elegance of the Georgian period.

Most breathtaking of all is the sweepingkitchen. An island bench in the open-plan space istopped by a slab of spectacular Calacatta marble,which is beautifully lit by three oversized lightsmade of blown glass. Hamptons-style cabinetdoors and panels throughout the kitchen arepainted with satin polyurethane in a mellow,neutral colour that brings out the vein in the

marble slab. Gaggenau appliances and a Sub-Zerofridge add to the opulence.

An adjoining butler’s pantry includes self-contained cooking and cleaning facilities toensure minimal interruption to the ow of themain kitchen when the house is being used forentertaining. The pantry also includes a dedicatedbar area with an under-bench wine fridge, rackedwine storage and an integrated coffee machine.A combi oven and an Abey work console nishthis light-lled pantry, which also boasts a homeofce and is the electronic hub of the house.

Massive bifold doors with Centor yscreensseparate the kitchen and dining area from the

With its own cooking and cleaning facilities, the clever butler’s pantry

ensures kitchen clutter won’t intrude onopen-plan entertaining

ABOVE High ceilings and built-in storage addelegance to this casual lounge roomABOVE LEFT The kitchen’s Hamptons-style cabinetdoors have been painted with satin polyurethane in amellow, neutral colour that brings out the vein in themarble benchtop and complements the joinery usedin the casual lounge



BEST HOM

KitchenDesign Projects and products

for the heart of your home

Project by CorianCASF Australia



Now a space that can truly beconsidered a hub of the home, theowners had an extensive wish listof textures, finishes and fixtures

for this kitchen project. Of major importancewas the inclusion of the pre-existing granitewalls and using natural timber in a varietyof different finishes to create a wonderfullywarm atmosphere. To this end, we usedtimber in the panels, open shelves, raisedbenchtop and under the counter, as well as theMessmate timber bearers and joists that weresalvaged from Shepparton Primary School.

The finishes include a mix of lime wash andDanish oil on the ceiling joists, Treatex oilon the panels and shelves, and Organoil onthe raised bar, turning each s urface into anattraction of its own. The timber wouldn’tbe such a standout feature if it wasn’t forthe modern, sleek-white Corian benchtopswith waterfall ends, which contrasts thenatural wood tones and beautifully highlightsthe rich, dark subway tiles. Yet, the slighttextured pattern within the Corian mimics thewoodgrain and helps to complete the look.Not only does Corian help to set this kitchen

apart, it also provides functionality throughits durable, stain resistant and easy t o cleansurface. What was once kitchen claustrophobiais now an invitingly open collage of naturalmaterials fit to entertain a multitude of familyand friends. BH

more info?Corian CASF Australia

casf.com.au

1300 795 044

110 BEST HOMES

Warm & inviting

HUB OF THE HOME

Various textures and nishes create a cosy environment inthis kitchen design



BEST HOM



BEST HOME

CELEBRITY KITCHEN

BENCHTOP BRILLIANCEIt’s the standout feature of the TV star’s kitchen. Thehuge centrepiece benchtop was created from Corian in theshade of Glacier White. It’s a luxurious 50mm thick fora modern, chunky look and has a waterfall edge. It wasmade from two pieces joined together. David Page fromManooga Products, the company that created it, says, “Theisland was the feature and centrepiece of the kitchen andthe tapered end complemented the shape of the building.Corian allowed such a design to be manufactured in piecesto allow handling and access into the house, and thenseamlessly joined them to create one continuous surface.Kind on the senses, as it’s not as noisy or cold as stone, issilky smooth to touch, non-porous and hygienic. It’s theperfect surface for this kitchen.” Corian was also used forthe laundry top and kitchen sink run.

more info?Manooga02 9807 3511manooga.com.au

What about the striking surf-themedsplashback?It’s glass. We blocked in the window that was there— we didn’t want to work with the light duringlming — and Eugene Tan from Aquabumps madeit from a photo from Broome, WA.

What are your must-have appliances in yourhome kitchen?The induction cooktop. It’s so easy to clean andversatile. And the Scholtès MultiPlo is great.

Did you have to adapt the design for the Paleodiet (known as the caveman diet) you promote?No, it’s pretty simple! We do have a ZipHydroTap, though, and the whole house has altration system, so we lter everything threetimes before we drink the tap water.

What do you most like to cook in here?In winter it’s mostly soups, stocks, braises. Insummer, it’s lighter food, like salads. We tryto cook for the temperature outside. When it’scold, we cook warm, when it’s warm, we cookcold. We’re getting an outdoor kitchen fromThe Outdoor Kitchen Company shortly. We’vedesigned a small kitchen, which should be heresoon, and, in the meantime, I’ve got my barbecue.

Where do you stock up your kitchen?B U Organic in Bondi Junction, Grub Butcheryon New South Head Road, Vaucluse, andSydney Fish Market.

Do you remember the rst dish you learnedto cook?

Cooking steak for the rst time was exciting! Oneof my rst jobs was at Sizzlers as a 14 year old.

When did you get into the Paleo diet?I’ve always been interested, but it wasn’t untilprobably the last three or four years that I’veactually taken it to a larger scale. The Paleo Waytour, which I did a few months ago, was a lotof fun and we got to talk to 6000 people. Thereaction was great. It’s not a fad diet. It’s basicallyeating the foods that are most optimal for health

based on scientic research. Weight managementis a bonus; it’s more about reclaiming our health.You do not have to count calories or do anythingweird. It’s cheaper and it’s given me many healthbenets. My family, my children, my partner, mymum all do it and have seen benets.

How do you deal with the negativity andthe “activated almonds” storm (Pete’s fooddiary caused a stir on Twitter when publishedin a newspaper for including such items asactivated almonds, meaning the nuts havebeen soaked in water)?It doesn’t worry me. It’s actually amusing that, as ahealth coach and chef, I manage to reach so manypeople. I’m just a messenger, it’s nothing new.

You’ve cooked for a lot of celebs, fromPrincess Mary to Elton John. Who was yourfavourite?I don’t really care about that, to be honest. Myfavourite people to cook for are my kids andpartner (Pete’s engaged to model Nicola Robinson).They’re my celebrities. They’re the people I enjoycooking for the most.

What’s next for you?I’ve got an online program called The PaleoWay (thepaleoway.com), a subscription-basedhealth and tness program with scienticevidence all packaged into one. Also, I have afew more books coming out in the next coupleof years. I do another TV series in Americacalled Moveable Feast . We just lmed thesecond series, so I’m going to lm the nextseries next year back there, and I’m doing MyKitchen Rules for the next two years. It’ll be

good to work with Manu again.

What are your ambitions?To continue what I’m doing. I love my job. BH

more info?CASF Australia1300 3795 044casf.com.aupeteevans.com.au

“The island was the feature andcentrepiece of the kitchen”

“My favourite people to cook forare my kids and partner. They’remy celebrities”



118 BEST HOMES

The Barricato granitebenchtop is an exquisitematerial and sets the moodfor the entire space



BEST HOM

Bold stone A luxurious, textured materialis the inspiration for thisdramatic kitchen design

LUXE KITCHEN



120 BEST HOMES

LUXE KITCHEN

The walk-in pantry ensuresthe space will always beclean and clutter-free



Desiring a glamorous and uniquekitchen design, the owners of thishome made a very bold choice — a30mm-thick piece of Barricato

granite was to inspire the entire kitchen design.To work with this beautiful stone and achievetheir dream space, the homeowners recruitedKaren Fullwood from Dana Kitchens.

As such a strong and textured material waschosen for the benchtop, care had to be takenwhen selecting the other nishes in order to create

a space that seamlessly integrated aesthetics andfunctionality. Pulling the various hues from theBarricato granite, a neutral palette was used;however, the challenge was to not detract from theglamour and luxurious feel that the homeownerscraved. Because of this, a beautiful metallic nishand handleless technology were chosen for thecabinetry with a select few sporting frosted-glassdoors that have been backlit for an even greaterdramatic effect. The cabinetry and benchtopare further complemented by a jet-black glasssplashback that draws the eye in and reects astunning mirror image of the surrounding area.

Additional features that make this kitchenspecial include internal hardware by Blumand LED downlighting, as well as luxuriousappliances such as the Smeg oven, Gessitapware, NEF cooktop and rangehood, andstunning travertine-tile ooring.

“The owner’s distinct choice of stone highlightsa contemporary and daring design. The uniquechoice of granite and timber adds warmth,vibrancy and originality. The two-pack is metallicand varies in colour from silver and bronze topewter in different light. The trafc in the home

“The owner’sdistinct choice of

stone highlights acontemporary and

daring design. Theunique choice of

granite and timberadds warmth,vibrancy andoriginality” —

Karen Fullwood, Dana Kitchens

BEST HOME



122 BEST HOMES

now has great ow, allowing a large walk-inpantry to be positioned at the end of the island,which is cleverly disguised. The use of the largetimber support under the open end of the island isvisible in the adjoining living room and outdoordining area, creating movement. The beautifullylandscaped acreage provides a picturesquebackground, adding to the serene and harmoniousow of this home,” says Karen. BH

more info?Dana Kitchens

07 3371 7100

danakitchens.com.au

ABOVE Extending into the adjoining alfrescoarea, the continuous use of Barricato granitecreates a seamless flow throughout the homeRIGHT The Barricato granite was even used inthe bathroomsOPPOSITE PAGE Small timber accents in thekitchen joinery offer warmth to the space



Corian ® Mixa sink intergrated with Corian ® Cirrus White benchtop.

Whatever the dream, imagine the results with Corian ®. To nd out more aboutthe endless applications of Corian, call 1300 267 426 or visit www.casf.com.au .

S hape grand ideas

imagine it with corian ®



BEST HOME

Pools &

Outdoors Innovative products and designideas for outdoor living

Project by A Total ConceptLandscape Architects +Swimming Pool Designers



126 BEST HOMES

Contemporaryelegance

An opulent space that is fun for thewhole family

FAMILY FRIENDLY BACKYARD



128 BEST HOMES

FAMILY FRIENDLY BACKYARD



BEST HOME

Inspired by the iridescent waters of southernEurope, this luxurious pool was designed toharmoniously complement the contemporarynature of the home. Winner of Narellan

Pools’ Pool of the Year award, the Federation9 features a grand entry staircase that leads toa raised spa, and white sandstone tiles whichcontrast beautifully with the elegant landscaping.

The client asked Narellan Pools to createa space that would be ideal for relaxation,recreation and entertaining. It’s a space that is funfor the whole family. Children can play and learnto swim in a safe environment, while adults cancatch up over a refreshing cocktail in the spa.

This creation is the perfect example ofhow the proper use of coping pavers canenhance the shape of a pool. By using tileswith an overhanging lip, the soft curves of theFederation design were squared off, giving thepool a contemporary edge.

Multicoloured LED lights illuminate thepool and spa, while near-invisible glass fencing

separates the pool and spa area from the deck. ANarellan AquaHydraulics pool sanitation systemwith Narellan Mineral Pool, media lter and Ecopump make sure the water remains in pristinecondition, ensuring easy maintenance.

Narellan Pools has been committed to qualityand innovation for two generations. Specialisingin breglass swimming pools and spas and ISO9001-accredited manufacturing, the companyhas built a reputation for bringing dreams to lifeby building Australia’s most-loved swimmingpools for more than 40 years. Supplying andinstalling pools throughout Australia, Europe,The Middle East, New Zealand, South Pacicand Asia, Narellan Pools offers a wide range of

designs and colours to suit any home.At Narellan Pools, the experienced designers

and builders take you through the entire pool-building process — from concept to completion.The company’s philosophy — “to create familyfun and a lifetime of memorable moments” —underpins every project that it takes on, givingprospective pool owners the security of knowingthat they are making the right choice.

A long-time member of SPASA, HIA and theMaster Builders Association, Narellan Pools hasbeen consistently acknowledged for excellence.Having won more than 100 SPASA awardsnationally, and with a list of environmentalawards and the Best Practice ManufacturingAccreditation from Nuplex, the companyguarantees an award-winning pool that willtransform your house into a home. BH

more info?Narellan Pools1300 676 657narellanpools.com.au



130 BEST HOMES

Sophisticated setting A luxurious garden adds the nal touches to this

period-style mansion

This period-style home inSydney’s lower north shore nowhas a garden that reflects itsunique character



PERIOD STYLE EXTRAVAGANCE

BEST HOME

main structure by incorporating key designelements into the exterior spaces.”

The A Total Concept team was able tonegotiate this controversial proposal, whichincluded elevating the levels approximately 3monto neighbouring property boundaries, throughlocal council, saving the homeowners moneyand time, as well as the uncertainty of the Landand Environment Court.

“We undertake a lot of large complex projectswhere negotiation is needed with local authoritiesand our success rate for approval is high due tothis experience. Often lateral thinking is neededto simply get the project built due to unusual siteconstraints such as bad access,” says John.

The main external complex consists of acabana, swimming pool and tennis court andis utilised for entertaining friends and family.The traditional-style cabana together with theintegration of the extensive paved entertainingareas, formal poolside lawns and specicallychosen plants ensure the overall project is inkeeping with the stately home.

At night, this garden comes to life as thetennis court is lit with spotlights, the poolsidecabana with LED downlighting in the ceiling,and energy-efcient LEDs illuminate the

swimming pool and garden areas to create anexquisite light show and a montage of dancing

shadows. A quality internal and external soundsystem and all electrical components includinglights, irrigation plus swimming pool heater andspa jets are linked to the residence’s smart homesystem and add to this entertainer’s oasis.

The formal lawn areas create a soft transitionfrom the residence to the tennis court andswimming pool. The traditional maze gardenentertains both children and adults alike whilethe water court provides a quiet, reectivespace for those that are seeking a bit oftime out. The lighting and formal plantingavenues of the entry path and driveway havebeen installed using traditional-style pavingmaterials to complete the property.

Traditional garden plants suitable for use inthe Australian environment have been utilisedthroughout the garden, each with their ownindividuality, and include formal hedges of

Buxus japonica (Japanese box), Michelia go (port wine magnolia) and Buxus sempervirens (English box), plus Cupressus torulosa (pencilpine), Cerastium tomentosum (snow-in-summer), Clivia , Salvia ‘Spires’ and Gardeniamagnica ‘Professor Pucci’.

“The external areas of this property werevery dilapidated, which allowed us to startthe project from scratch. We were ableto design and integrate the spaces … to seamlessly integrate with the architecturallydesigned residence” — John Storch

A Total Concept is an established award-winning design and management practicespecialising in the integration of beautifuland functional swimming pools, gardens andcabanas for all styles of homes. John Storchand his team have achieved a beautiful externalenvironment for the homeowners of this abode,enhancing the functionality of the home and,inevitably, the value of the property. BH

more info?A Total Concept Landscape Architects + PoolDesigners02 9957 5122atotalconcept.com.au

OPPOSITE TOP The poolside cabana has beendesigned with built-in cabinetry, including a sink,wine fridge, bar and a bathroom facility withshower, toilet and basinOPPOSITE BOTTOM The crystal-blue water popsamongst the surrounding greeneryABOVE LEFT The sparkling water of the Italianglass-tiled swimming pool contrasts beautifully withthe surrounding sandstone paving, as well as theporcelain tiles utilised inside the poolside cabanaABOVE The garden ornaments, such as the rusticurns, archways, patterned paving and decorativefencing, and the overall design of each exterior space,reflect the style of the home that they accompany



134 BEST HOMES

Poolside living A contemporary poolside cabana adds a European

summer vibe to this family home

Perfect for entertaining, thisoutdoor room is fitted-outwith all the mod cons, suchas a TV, entertainment unitand dishwasher

EUROPEAN SUMMER HOME



BEST HOME



136 BEST HOMES

EUROPEAN SUMMER HOME

This Sydney property’s new outdoorareas have been revamped to turn asmall area into a usable space thatincorporates everything a family

could want for both day-to-day living andweekend socialising at home.

The project was undertaken by A TotalConcept Landscape Architects + Swimming PoolDesigners and encompasses a courtyard with acabana and pool, plus a lawn and gardens, creatingthe feel of a contemporary European resort.

The rear of the property originally had nooutlook and little privacy from neighbours, sothe entire area was bounded with a formal hedgegarden. This has created a concealed courtyard,which provides a stunning outlook from thekitchen and living areas of the home.

The cabana is located by the pool, providingthe family with a sheltered poolside space forrespite from the sun, and incorporates a smallpaved area for drying off after a swim.

The project has been designed to integratewith the style of the rest of the home, usingsimple, clean lines for the pool, cabana andgarden areas. The at roof of the cabana is

hidden behind a corbel. The cabana featuresa high ceiling, which acts to not only visuallyincrease the size of the space but also allow forceiling fans to keep the area cool in summer.The blond travertine paving used aroundthe pool complements the painted renderedmasonry of the residence.

Every whim and desire has been cateredfor with this project. Amenities include alarge wall-mounted LCD television, intricatebuilt-in cabinetry, Caesarstone benchtopwith waterfall sides, under-mounted sink,stainless-steel fridge, dishwasher and bar, plusa generous lounge and daybeds.

At night, the poolside cabana is well litwith both concealed strip lighting and LEDdownlighting, which, together with energy-efcient LED lights in the swimming pool, lawnand garden areas, create a moody atmosphere.

The large pool steps and extensiveunderwater benches double as informalseats within the pool while heated spa jetshave been incorporated into the backrests,providing the perfect place for parents andchildren to chat.

The aspect of the property provides sun mostof the day and shelter from winds. The gardenstyle is contemporary and simplistic, with alimited planting palette of Cupressus , Salvia ,quandong, gardenias and Convolvulus .

The entire project was designed and managedby award-winning design practice A Total ConceptLandscape Architects+ Swimming Pool Designersand it successfully and seamlessly integrates thehome, cabana, pool, lawn and gardens. The resultis a stunning space that creates the ambience of aEuropean holiday at home.

This project has created a beautifulenvironment for the homeowners and reectsthe design practice’s philosophy of “A TotalConcept”. It adds immeasurably to the lifestyleamenity and value of the property. BH

more info?A Total Concept Landscape Architects +Swimming Pool Designers02 9957 5122atotalconcept.com.au

The cabana providesshelter from the sun forlong days by the pool



The result is a stunning space that creates the

ambience of a Europeanholiday at home

BEST HOME

A solid structure, thisspace feels like a privateoasis at home



138 BEST HOMES

The cont inuous flow fromindoors to out has extendedthe living space of thishome and enhanced theentertaining capabilities forthe homeowners



BEST HOM

A private abodeSometimes small is better, as this smartly designed space proves



140 BEST HOMES

LESS IS MORE



In a country famous for its outdoorlifestyle, having a seamlesstransition from inside to out is anessential factor for many Australian

homeowners. However, for the expertteam at GOODMANORS Pool + Garden,project was not without its difculties, withissues including a small outdoor space andneighbours that are too close for comfort.

“The existing site included decking masonryaround the boundary and towards the rear,” saysGOODMANORS’ Raoul van de Laak. “Andit had no inviting elements or privacy from theneighbouring properties.”

Both designed and built by

GOODMANORS, this free-owing outdoorarea has dealt with the issue of space so wellthat it doesn’t even seem a factor. Rather, abrilliant layout and expert planting create animmediate sense of relaxation upon enteringthis outdoor oasis.

With the aim of creating an environment thatwas not only an extension of the home, but alsoa place where entertaining and lazy days couldgo hand in hand, it was clear that every corner ofthe existing space needed to be utilised.

The clients wanted to incorporate apool for leisure into their small gardenand redesign the space to complement thehouse’s architecture. “They wanted to createa seamless transition between indoors andoutdoors and provide a relaxed atmospherefor outdoor entertaining,” says Raoul.

Material selection was integral to ensuringthe various zones of the outdoor area felt“in harmony with each other without beingoverwhelming”. However, the owner’s requestto make room for a pool meant some cleverthinking would be needed to ensure the layoutdidn’t end up cluttered and claustrophobic.

Every corner ofthe space has

been well utilised,with sumptuous

greenery and strategic plantingcreating a privateand harmonious

atmosphere

BEST HOME



142 BEST HOMES

The signicant challenge was to incorporate apool into the restricted size of the space withoutit taking up too much room. GOODMANORSdidn’t want to make the space feel morerestricted and divide it from the indoors.

The team succeeded and now a large spottedgum hardwood deck ows outside from theinterior dining area, enabling you to stepout onto the pool area and up to a privateseating zone that overlooks the relaxingwaters below. Every corner of the space hasbeen well utilised, with sumptuous greeneryand strategic planting creating a private andharmonious atmosphere.

Textural interest and contrast were achievedthrough the selection of plants, with a focus onfoliage colours to complement the neutral tones

of the architecture and interior while providinga lush and relaxing feel.

The muted colour of the bluestone paversand rendered retaining walls around the poolwall have combined with the rest of the colourpalette to create a sense of calm. However,with neighbours able to overlook the outdoorarea, the existing walls needed some tinkeringto give the area an air of seclusion.

The existing rear rendered brick wall wasextended and raised to be level and the sideboundary brick walls were raised to addressprivacy issues.

Designing an outdoor space that owsfrom one zone to another while maintainingprivacy and adding a pool in such a smallarea was always going to be a challenge. This

immaculate design shows that, with somesmart material selection and clever layoutsolutions, even a small-sized backyard cantransform into a perfect outdoor space. BH

more info?GOODMANORS Pool + Garden02 9818 3377goodmanors.com.au

ABOVE Despite size limitations, this lush outdoorarea incorporates a pool. The extended andraised level makes the area feel larger and addsdepth to the space

LESS IS MORE



BEST HOME



We aren’t always fortunateenough to have opulent spaces,but generally we can plan ourown small sanctuary to its best

potential. This usually entails an outdoor deckand shade cover and privacy for dining andrelaxing. The more natural the setting, the closerto nature we feel.

House of Bamboo has helped countlessAustralians achieve their own sanctuary. Thecompany has been an Australian pioneer of eco-friendly and sustainable products since 1975.A specialist in all kinds of bamboo products for

both outdoor and indoor use, House of Bamboonow provides the latest generation in naturalfencing, shading and decking materials.

Perhaps for your setting, a simple fencecladding is ideal. A natural fence claddingsuch as Natureed can hide unsightly fences andprovide a sense of cohesion. Or a fence mayneed to be heightened on one side or in onesegment to bring privacy to the area. A shedneeded for storage, the carport or the clotheslinecan all be screened with Natureed cladding.

The beauty of Natureed lies in its qualityand natural look, which blends with varied

144 BEST HOMES

Natural beauty Fresh air, privacy and natural surroundsare the essence of an outdoor space

SCREEN PLAY



contemporary outdoor architectural andlandscaping styles, including gardens withtropical, Balinese, Oriental, Mediterranean orAustralian native themes. Natureed is extremelyversatile and can be used in a number of differentways — for texture, privacy or barrier screens inpool, garden or deck areas as well as for bringingelegant overhead shade to existing or newpergola, patio or outdoor room surrounds.

House of Bamboo has moved away fromconventional approaches to shade, where once themain idea was simply to block out the sun. Thebasis of its approach is to utilise environmentallysound bamboo and reed-based natural materials inmodern, architectural and landscape environmentsto create comfort in an aesthetically pleasing way.

A soft, natural ltered light is achieved usingeither ne Natureed only millimetres wideor bamboo rods of various sizes up to 25mmthick. In many contexts, cool air may also passbetween the reeds or poles.

Directed from overhead at night, the lteredlight creates a magical ambience. Existingpolycarbonate patio awnings or verandah roongcan be dramatically cooled when clad underneath

with Natureed or House of Bamboo’s otherscreening materials. A natural texture is instantlyapparent, as well as immediate coolness andfreedom from soiled overhead polycarbonate.

House of Bamboo also now provides thelatest generation of bamboo decking, which isperfect for pool surrounds and outdoor rooms.These solid-mass boards, available in carbonisedstrand-woven or vertical bamboo, are denseand provide greater strength and hardness thanhardwood timbers. The solid-mass bamboodecking is treated with natural decking oil.

Many different themes can be achievedwith natural materials as a backdrop, allowingyou to be creative in planning or upgradingyour own comfortable sanctuary in a stylethat suits your lifestyle and complements yourhome’s design. BH

more info?House of Bamboo

02 9666 5703

houseofbamboo.com.au

BEST HOME



If there is a more inspiring view of SydneyHarbour than this, you’d be hard pressed tond it. Whether oating in the pool, soakingin the spa or relaxing on the poolside deck,

you have a spectacular view of Australia’s best-known design icons: the Sydney Opera Houseand the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

To keep the view the focal point of the newlyrenovated home and garden, it was imperativethat the pool be as unobtrusive as possible. Toachieve this, Crystal Pools worked hand-in-handwith the home’s architect.

To capitalise on the view, the pool and spaneeded to be built above ground. To minimise

their impact, the pool has dual negative wetedges, and both the spa and pool are tiled in amix of blue mosaics chosen to harmonise withthe colour of the water in the harbour. Framelessglass fencing allows uninterrupted sight lines.

Although space was at a premium andpreserving the view was paramount, a small

When designing thenew pool, spa and deck,capturing the panoramicharbour view was theuppermost priority

146 BEST HOMES

Pool with a viewWith the panorama of Sydney Harbour laid out in all its splendour

before it, this sleek new pool has a view that is like no other



deck was included in the design. A series ofsteps leads up to the deck, which is spaciousenough to accommodate matching sunloungesand provide access to the pool. Adding to thelook of luxury, travertine was used for the steps,paving on the deck and around the spa as wellas for the garden edging that separates the lawnfrom the tiled spillover.

The attached spa, with its six stainless-steel jets and blower, meets the owners’ request for aspace dedicated to relaxation, while the 8m x 2mpool, although by no means large, can be used forexercise. A gas-boosted heater warms the waterin winter and on chilly evenings, while the AquaQuip Spectrum Series LED lights, which highlightthe soft-blue tiles, bring the pool to life at night.

With sustainability a priority for the owners,the energy-efcient pool utilises the home’s

Whether oating in the pool, soakingin the spa or relaxing on the poolside

deck, you have a spectacular view of Australia’s best-known design icons:the Sydney Opera House and theSydney Harbour Bridge

BEST HOME

SCENIC SYDNEY



existing heat exchange system and recycles allof the water used with an auto top-up system.Add to this the Astral Pools matching eco pumpand sand lter and the fully automatic saltwaterchlorinator, and this is a pool that is efcient,eco-friendly and breathtaking. BH

more info?Crystal Pools02 9875 4555crystalpools.com.au

TOP Travertine paving was used for the areaaround the spa and for the deck that sits at theother end of the lean lap poolLEFT LED lighting gives the water a magical glowbut in a way that doesn’t detract from the city lightsLEFT BOTTOM The newly renovated home nowlooks out on a modern pool and outdoor livingspace with a priceless backdropABOVE The frameless glass fencing meets all thesafety requirements and preserves the preciousharbour sight lines

SCENIC SYDNEY

148 BEST HOMES



150 BEST HOMES

The cabana is fitted outwith all the mod cons,including a bar fridge



BEST HO

Holidaying at home A newly installed pool and cabana provides this family of four with an enviable lifestyle

Photography by Reg Blunt of EMB Photographics

BALINESE STYLE CABANA



152 BEST HOMES

Winner of the Freeform or NaturalConcrete Pool up to $50,000at the 2014 Master BuildersAssociation NSW awards,

Honey’s Pool by ACG Building is a masterfulcreation of clean and focused design.

“The area was a large green-grassed backyard,empty and with no real landscaping to bementioned,” says ACG Building’s Peter Phokosof the space before construction, adding, “thespace was sloping to the back of the propertyand was unusable.”

Following a body of work that involvedexcavating landll and sandstone, pool concreteconstruction, custom-made coping and tiles —which were cut to size — constructing a custom-made Balinese-style cabana, installing anoutdoor bar and sink area, and custom framelessglass fencing … the space now ticks all theboxes for the homeowners.

The client was a couple in their late 30s withtwo children aged 11 and nine. For them, “it



154 BEST HOMES

The cabana provides a relaxingplace to enjoy the delights ofthe outdoors, including the newluscious green garden

GARDEN PARTY



BEST HO

Winning styleThis award-winning garden is a stunning

showcase of sustainable designPhotography by Peter Brennan



156 BEST HOMES

GARDEN PARTY

The structural elements of the garden werebased on a logarithmic spiral and include abespoke hardwood daybed, a circular frog pondand a retaining wall with custom-made doublebullnose capping that was raked and curved towork with the contours of the site.

The planting design encompasses ve mainthemes. The foremost theme, which runsthroughout the garden, is productive plantings.Extensive areas for fruit, vegetable and herbgrowing are located within the areas that receivethe optimal amount of sun. Plants chosen to

attract birds, fauna and promote biodiversitycomprise the second theme. These were selectedprimarily from native stock.

The third theme, ornamental plants, wasemployed in the non-productive areas of thegarden, increasing its aesthetic appeal andmaking good use of the shadier garden zones.Around the frog pond, purple plants that do wellin bog-like growing conditions were selected tofurther integrate the deep purple-blue tones ofthe Bowral blue brick wall into the landscape.

Construction materials were selected for their

The brief from the owners was to redesign arear garden that was dominated by a largeunused 1960s swimming pool and turn itinto an oasis that would be contemporary, productive, sustainable and fauna-friendly

ability to be deconstructed and reused in thefuture, hence the use of dry-pressed bricks andhardwood. Soil reuse was achieved by restrictingearthworks to within the turf area, which is also

where the pool had previously been located,while the retention and stockpiling of sandstoneagging from the existing pavements andretaining walls allowed the creation of a lizardhabitat at the base of the new retaining wall.

This garden has won multiple awards for bothecodesign and The Other Side Landscapes. Inthe Landscape Association of NSW and ACTLandscape Excellence Awards 2014, it took outtop honours in the Plants in the Landscape andSustainable Landscape Residential categories.It also won the Best Residential LandscapeDesign under $25,000 in the Australian Instituteof Landscape Designers and Managers 2008Landscape Design Awards and in the 2014awards, it won Gold in the Plantscape Designcategory and Silver in the Residential Design$50,000–$150,000 category. BH

more info?ecodesign Pty Ltd02 9680 7712ecodesign.com.au



FEATURE OF THE GARDEN

158 BEST HOMES



A garden pond brings much morethan the simple delight of having awater feature in the garden. If it’sa naturally balanced pond, it will

attract local wildlife and conserve water, helpingto sustain a healthy ecosystem.

Elite Garden Ornaments, a family-runbusiness with 45 years’ combined experience inwater features, mould making and ornamentalpre-casting, specialises in creating naturallybalanced ponds using the Aquascape Ecosystem.

This easy-to-maintain system, suitable forboth residential and commercial settings, utilisesnatural stone, aquatic plants, sh and benecialbacteria to create an eco-friendly pond. And,because each pond is naturally balanced, it helps

you capture, clean and reuse our planet’s mostvital resource: water.

Aquascape also offers the patented PondlessWaterfall. Available with or without a stream,this recirculating waterfall allows you to enjoythe sight and sound of running water without themaintenance of a pond.

There’s no denying that the soothing sightand sound of a water feature helps you relax. Awater feature can also function as an interestingbackdrop to an outdoor entertaining area. Inaddition to the Aquascape product range, EliteGarden Ornaments manufactures and distributesa broad range of water features, from simpleoverowing urns to fully automated featuresincorporating water and light shows.

BEST HOM

Something toponder A naturally balanced pond that is a

delight to look at and a breeze to maintaintransforms the front of this home into atranquil sanctuaryPhotography by Peter Brennan



Not only can Elite Garden Ornamentscreate a water feature of any style or size,it offers a water feature and sh pondmaintenance service and can install, x orre-engineer any fountain, or if you prefer toDIY, the company regularly conducts DIYwater feature installation workshops. Forthose in the landscape industry, Elite GardenOrnaments also holds trade “Build a Pond”days. If you can’t attend a training session orworkshop, instructional DVDs are available.You can also follow Aquascape on Facebookby searching “Pond Man”. BH

more info?Elite Garden Ornaments P/L02 9605 1377 / 0414 075 398pondman.com.au, aquascape.net.au

160 BEST HOMES

FEATURE OF THE GARDEN



Garden Ornaments, Pier Capping (sandstone or concrete look) ,Sandstone Look Cladding, Large Load Bearing Columns(sandstone or smooth concrete look) made to order, CustomMade Water Features, Fountains, Statues, Birdbaths, Flowerpots,Urns, Garden Furniture, Letter Boxes, Sundials etc.

Cnr. Lancaster 1/24 Norwich Road,Ingleburn Road NSW 2565P/F: (02) 9605 1377M: 0414 075 398www.gardenornaments.com.au

Manufacturers & Installers of:

ELITE GARDENORNAMENTS



162 BEST HOMES

A completefacelift

Sometimes all an ageing poolneeds is a little TLC

SWIMMING PRETTY



BEST HOME



164 BEST HOMES



This large pool and spa combinationwas brought back to life by PridePools. Originally a tired, old pool,it required a little tender loving care

in order to become the expansive, attractive lap

pool that the owners desired.To be properly revamped, the pool needed

to be radically rectied. Pride Pools xed theconcrete cancer that had developed over theyears from the salt before p lacing a newlypoured pool inside the existing 50-year-old onethat was nestled into the harbour foreshore.Walkways also needed to be removed, as did oneside of the structure. To this day, tradesmen stillrefer to this job as “the really tricky one we did”.

Despite the complexity of the job, thenal, revamped concrete pool with added spawas a spectacular addition to the space. Theowners and Pride Pools are extremely proudof the result. Complete with a new ltrationand heating system and near-invisible glassfencing, it is sure to provide a safe and enjoyableswimming experience year-round. BH

more info?Pride Pools02 9436 2711pridepools.com.au

BEST HOME

SWIMMING PRETTY



166 BEST HOMES

SWIMMING PRETTY



13 Johnston Court, Dandenong South VIC Phone: (03) 9793 5500 Mobile: 0414 813 Email: [email protected]

www.tombodesign.com.auProject by www.urbangreenprojects.com.au

Decorative metal screening and décor thatwill transform your outdoor space.

Tombo Design specialises in architectural and decorativemetal privacy screens for residential and commercial use.

The company also produces an array of metal wall art, gardenfeatures, re pits and illuminated pieces so you can create a

fully coordinated look to enhance any outdoor space.

Tombo Design screens are available in a wide range ofnishes, from powder-coated to oxidised metal, and a selectionof distinctive designs. If you require something unique, TomboDesign can produce custom-designed, made-to-order pieces

for residential landscapes or commercial projects.



COSY COURTYARD

168 BEST HOMES

COSY COURTYARD

The wall, finished in a textured Ayers Rockcolour, provides a warm, rich feature



BEST HOM

SophisticatedstylingThe transformation of a Sydney

courtyard into an inviting alfrescoarea proves that limited space need

not limit the imaginationPhotography by Thomas Girschner



Small Sydney properties are all aboututilising what space there is in a cleverfashion. This is a mantra that, sadly,this property hadn’t followed. Here,

the existing courtyard was cramped with loadsof wasted space, a very small area for outdoordining and a sh pond that ate into the amountof usable space. Existing silver birch trees andsteps further restricted the use of the courtyard.These trees had caused damage to the tiles andboundary walls and the planted areas were alsoin poor condition. But all of this was to change.

170 BEST HOMES

COSY COURTYARD

ABOVE The red-ochre tones of the wall contrastwell with the foliage of the treesLEFT The movement and peaceful sound of waterfalling from the bronze waterspout into the pondadds to the ambience and peaceful atmosphereof this inviting spaceOPPOSITE PAGE Two feature pots were plantedwith lace-leaf Japanese maple, a small yetbeautiful ornamental tree. These feature potshelp frame the water feature wall



BEST HOME

“Although the space is

small, it comes packed with features and function” — Julian Brady



COSY COURTYARD

172 BEST HOMES

COSY COURTYARD

“I was inspired by the afternoon sunlight pouring into thecourtyard through the existing

silver birch trees and thecolours often seen at sunset” —

Julian Brady

The movement and peaceful sound of waterfalling from the bronze waterspout into thepond adds to the ambience and tranquilatmosphere of this inviting space



Wanting to take advantage of all that outdoor entertainingSydney has to offer, the homeowner requested a completeoutdoor makeover, incorporating a new feature wall, newpond, enlarged marble-tiled alfresco area, outdoor kitchenand new plantings. Essentially, this was to be a new alfrescooutdoor room with a kitchen, which would maximise the useof the rear courtyard space in the best possible way.

What was there did have potential, however, and providedhints of inspiration for registered landscape architect JulianBrady. “I was inspired by the afternoon sunlight pouring intothe courtyard through the existing silver birch trees and thecolours often seen at sunset,” says Julian. “This provided awarm and inviting ambience to the outdoor room and inspiredthe design to include elements that capture the essence ofsophistication, comfort, function, form, sound and texture.”

The contemporary garden, constructed by Julian’scompany, SiteDesign + Studios, now exudes sophisticatedstyling, with a feature wall and waterspout that pours intoa semi-circle shpond. The wall is nished in a texturedAyers Rock colour, which, at sunset and when lit up at night,provides a warm, rich feature. The sound of running watermakes the outdoor dining experience even more enjoyable.

BEST HOME



“The water feature wall with Ayers Rock redtones and sh pond below is my favourite partof the garden,” says Julian. “The colour is rich,vibrant and a wonderful backdrop when diningoutdoors and when viewed from indoors. Thered-ochre tones work really well with thesunset and contrast well with the foliage ofthe trees either side and behind the wall. Themovement and sound of water falling from thebronze waterspout into the pond is tranquil and

adds to the ambience of the space.”Two feature pots were planted with Acer

palmatum var. dissectum ‘Seiryu’, or lace-leaf Japanese maple, a small yet beautifulornamental tree with soft lace leaves and adome-shaped form. These feature pots helpframe the water feature wall and allow theafternoon sun to shine through the trees.

The existing silver birch trees planted manyyears ago were too close to the existing brickwalls and, as a result, had caused some damageover the years. Therefore, the problematic treeswere removed (with council permission) andthe damaged brick walls rebuilt to allow formore usable space. As these walls were on theboundary line to neighbours, careful attentionwas made to not disturb the neighbour’s existinggarden when rebuilding.

Side boundary fences — 1800mm brickwalls — are covered by star jasmine climbers.The rear courtyard fence is made up of twogates made from aluminium slats with atimber-look nish, which makes the gates lightto open and requires no ongoing maintenance,as hardwood timber typically would.

Jelly bean succulents hang from balconyplanter boxes, mondo grass is used as a llergroundcover and slender weaver bamboo is an

accent for courtyard corners.The kitchen, by Castle Kitchens, provides

all the luxuries and essentials of a full-workingkitchen and cooking experience. The alfresco andoutdoor kitchen oor is tiled using 450 x 450 x12mm Crema Marl marble tiles to match thekitchen oor and benchtops inside the house. Theoutdoor kitchen benchtop also incorporates thesame marble.

The inspiring completed project shows justwhat wonders can be achieved with a smallspace. “Being such a small outdoor space madethis a fun and rewarding challenge,” says Julian.“Although the space is small, it comes packedwith features and function — a beautiful outdoorkitchen, bar, alfresco area, feature wall, waterfeature, feature pots, herb garden, storage areasand plenty of space for cooking, dining andentertaining with family and friends.” BH

more info?SiteDesign + Studios1300 22 44 55sdstudios.com.au

174 BEST HOMES

COSY COURTYARD

ABOVE The fully equipped outdoor kitchen, byCastle Kitchens, makes outdoor dining a delightLEFT Two feature pots were planted withlace-leaf Japanese maple, a small yet beautifulornamental tree. These feature pots help framethe water feature wall



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176 BEST HOMES



BEST HO

A place to call home An old home is given a new lease on life with modern

comforts while retaining its historic charm and character

This renovated 1940s workman’scottage is jam-packed with

meaningful pieces collected byowner-builder Bryce Rogers

AS GOOD AS NEW



178 BEST HOMES

Many projects follow a familiarformula — architects, builders anddesigners undertaking projects torenovate homes for other people.

While no less passionate about their work it’salways nice to see someone in the industry takingon a personal project. This particular home is thatof Bryce Rogers, a master builder and craftsmanwho has been in the industry for several decades.Bryce is a man of the world whose love of history,culture and travel is evident in the personalisedpieces found within the home and also reectedby the desire to retain the style and presence of thehome he originally purchased.

The property began its life in the 1940s as aworkman’s cottage that was part of a scheme tohouse war veterans and their families. Locatedon the sun-drenched Sunshine Coast, the cottagewas one of many that were erected during that

time, and the style in which they were built wenton to create a quintessential part of Australiana.The neighbourhoods which were formed by thehousing scheme would be familiar to any who’veseen them, with their bro and timber constructionin a typical Queenslander style, to the ever-presentAussie icon in the backyard: the Hills Hoist.

These suburban landscapes have made adramatic shift in the decades since the turn ofthe century. Developers have moved in andrampant redevelopment of these once sleepyneighbourhoods has seen many taken over by large-scale housing projects and townhouses, leadingto many suburbs looking like Lego Land. Whilenot all developing projects have led to negativeoutcomes, many suburbs have lost a sense ofcharacter and history in their rapid modernisation.

This could have been the case with this verysame home if it wasn’t for Bryce being taken

by its old historic charm and well-kept integrity.Initially planned as a knock-down, several monthsof residence changed his mind. Curiosity about itspast drove Bryce to interrogate anyone he couldnd in the neighbourhood as to its history andprevious residents. Upon uncovering the historyfrom some long-lived locals knocking down thehome was out of the question.

With its well-kept, yet old fashionedinteriors and solid design, the home became thefoundation for Bryce’s very own bachelor padand gentleman’s retreat. Using knowledge andskills learnt throughout his career he single-handedly set to work making his vision a reality.

Interior renovations served to open up theinternal space of the three-bedroom home. Itsmodest living, dining and rear verandah spaceswould be totally transformed. A ‘master suite’,with bathroom and extensive walk-in-wardrobe

The reuse of original and second-hand materials shows that a greathome can be created without the need to pull down old structures

and that historic inner-city suburbs don’t need to be knocked downand lled with modern apartments and townhouses



BEST HOME

AS GOOD AS NEW

would replace the spaces of the original bedrooms.The living space was redesigned to include apersonal library and sitting room. The furnishingsand decorative detailing have been sourced fromaround the globe and are testament to the well-travelled nature of their owner. Many piecesretain a sense of the old colonial style and helpto shape the home into a living space that ErnestHemingway himself would be proud to live in.

As previously stated, retention of the building’soriginal character was paramount to its newpurpose. Non-level or plumb walls and detailswere kept in their original state and many newlyacquired pieces in the home came from deceasedestates to help keep the old character. New paintwas applied by hand to mimic the effect of the

old lead paints of the original palette. The colourshave been kept neutral and warm, with a splashof highlighting to make the details pop. This allserves Bryce’s desire to eschew the modern lookand create a home that carries with it a sense ofpoise and history, each piece and detail carryingwith it the essence of its past.

The home, however, is not without newadditions. An entry deck was designed andbuilt to serve as a buffer between the frontgardens and the main entrance into the home.The rear deck was resized and rebuilt intoa grand summer living space, which opensup to the outside world with the aid of fold-out aluminium louvres. The ‘backyard’has been replaced by English-style formal

grounds; these serve as a verdant backdropfor the outside living room. The detailing ofthe grounds mirrors the masterfully craftedinternal design with well-tended hedges andweathered colonial detailing. The trees ofthe rear grounds, which were destined to beremoved due to excess canopy foliage, nowserve as a centre point. Recruiting the aid ofan arborist, Bryce removed the centre of eachtree’s upper canopy allowing sunlight to lterthrough the foliage. Now their dappled shadeand gnarled limbs emphasise the appeal of the

natural green space.Along with being a place that its owner wants

to live in, the home is testament to sustainablebuilding. The reuse of original and second-handmaterials shows that a great home can be createdwithout the need to pull down old structuresand that historic inner-city suburbs don’t needto be knocked down and lled with modernapartments and townhouses.

This home with its Asiatic colonial air andadaptive reuse of materials and furnishings hasmore character and class in its oorboards thanthe whole neighbourhood’s worth of ‘modern’housing. It goes to show what a renovation canachieve with a little extra TLC and forethought. B

more info?Bryce C Rogers of Ground Control07 5531 [email protected]

TOP LEFT The living space was redesigned toinclude a personal library and sitting roomABOVE Bryce managed to retain the house’s oldcharacter by sourcing materials and furnishingsfrom deceased estatesLEFT Bryce opted for an English-style formal backgarden with clipped hedges and lush green lawns



180 BEST HOMES

Surrounded by the garden andoften bathed in light and sunshine,the open-plan kitchen/living/diningroom is the most-used and well-loved area of the home



The meaning of homeThis design explores the ideas of family and environmental sustainability in a private, light-lled Sydney home that is

surrounded by lush greenery

FAMILY HAVEN

BEST HO



182 BEST HOMES

The homeowner and architect of thisproject in Sydney’s Northbridgerelished the idea of having completefreedom to design the family home

and explore environmental design options. Whileshe was careful to pay respect to the original1940s-era brick bungalow house, her direction forthe home design came from considering issuesof privacy and environmental sustainability whilealso exploring the concept of the family home.

In keeping with the sustainable design concept,as much of the original house as possible waskept. A bedroom, studio and bathroom wereadded upstairs and the entire roof was replaced to

unify the new with the old. The previous kitchenand laundry had been subject to alterations andadditions over the years and were removedto make way for a new kitchen and an open-plan family/dining room at the back of thehouse. Another bedroom and study were alsoincorporated into the new design and the existingpool and surrounding area were renovated, alsoincorporating a shower and small bathroom.

As rooms were being removed and thestructure of the home changed, materials weresalvaged and recycled wherever possible. Bricksfrom demolished walls were kept and the timberfrom the old roof beams was milled on site and

Sarah’s maindirection for the

home design came from consideringissues of privacy

and environmental sustainability while

also exploringthe concept of the

family homeABOVE LEFT “The existing steel windows weresome of the features that I first fell in love withwhen we bought the property and these recallInternational Modernism,” says Sarah, along withother design elements such as the flat roof andasymmetrical overhangsOPPOSITE PAGE TOP Big glass sliding doors openup the entire living room, bringing the outdoors inand creating the feel of a pavilion



BEST HOME

FAMILY HAVEN

re-used as joinery inside the home. Recycledtimber was also used for the home’s externalcladding and for the timber oorboards.

After recycling, the second important factor forgood environmental design is passive solar controlso every room was located to have good access tothe sun. When it came to the kitchen, the morningsun was important to it too but it needed to be inthe centre of the house as it functions as a socialhub. A small courtyard was therefore created on theeast side of the kitchen and the roof was cut awayto allow in the morning sun — problem solved!

Thinking beyond the way the home worksinternally, it was designed with its externalenvironment and the surrounding neighbourhood

in mind. With visitors also in mind, the entrancewas moved further along the laneway, ensuringit was at the centre of the plan and away fromthe busy street corner.

To ensure privacy from the laneway, a thick wallof services runs along this side. All the windowsare either high or low so that no one can see inside,although that part of the house is still light andwell ventilated. Exact shadow diagrams were alsocreated, which meant the new renovations wouldn’tcast any shadow onto neighbouring properties.

Clever concepts throughout ensure this homefeels open and owing, lled with light and asense of openness, when in fact you cannot seeinto any private areas at all. The glass walls of

the living space bring the beautiful garden insideand, combined with lofty ceilings, create thefeeling of a lush city oasis.

more info?To The Mil02 9399 8800tothemil.com.auPhotography by Marian RiabicArchitecture by Sarah FitzgeraldLandscaping by Peter FudgeRoof Garden Landscaping by Ian McMaugh,Budwise

The glass wallsof the living

space bring the garden insideand, combined

with lofty ceilings,create the feeling of

a lush city oasis



The 2014 Pools Collection.



bisazza-australia.com.au T: 02 9838 9233



186 BEST HOMES

Breathtaking design,technical mastery Bisazza mosaics offer the perfect nish for youroutdoor masterpiece

MOSAIC MASTERPIECE



If you’ve ever seen a Bisazza swimmingpool, you’ll recognise another oneimmediately because Bisazza mosaics

represent a peerless balance of art andmanufacturing excellence. It’s why the Bisazzabrand is famous worldwide.

For more than half a century, Bisazza has beeninvolved with some of the most prestigious andluxurious swimming pools in the world. Famousactors, musicians and corporate magnates haveall been customers of the famous Italian brand.

The collection for 2014 is strikingly beautifuland any of the 35 designs is a feast for the

eyes — especially since the collection has beenpainstakingly selected for Australia and NewZealand because of the way the colours andtextures in the tesserae are complemented by oursouthern hemisphere sunlight.

Conceived by the design team in Vicenza,Italy, and manufactured with fastidious attentionto detail, each individual mosaic tessera hasmesmerising depth and detail. Multiply thatexperience by the thousands of pieces required

to cover a swimming pool and you begin tounderstand why every Bisazza installation is avisual feast for the owners.

It might surprise you to learn that Bisazza’sobsession with every luxurious detail oftheir mosaic collections doesn’t end with themosaic itself. Not content with simply creatingexquisite mosaic pieces, Bisazza decided tocreate an exclusive grout that would perfectlycomplement the sumptuous tesserae.

As you might expect from this creativecompany, Bisazza’s Fillgel rewrites the rulebookon grout. Instead of the grout being opaque,Bisazza produced a clear grout, then infusedit with thousands of tiny Swarovski crystals.That sounds amazing by itself, but the effectof the crystals is to reect the colours of thesurrounding mosaic. This adds an astonishingdepth and richness to the overall impression.

As you can see, Bisazza isn’t so much acompany as a philosophy, endlessly pursuingperfection in design and technical mastery bycombining traditional values and techniqueswith creativity and state-of-the-art materials.

It’s thanks to this philosophy that Bisazza

owners can enjoy a genuine sense ofexclusivity and luxury in an increasinglycommoditised world. BH

more info?Bisazza Australia

02 9838 9233

bisazza-australia.com.au

BEST HOME



188 BEST HOMES

A relaxing atmosphereThis home’s exterior natural beauty offers a laid-back andtranquil environment for the homeowners



Relaxing in the pool is the ideal wayto take advantage of this country’sgreat weather during the summermonths. Pride Pools is committed to

building stunning pools that are not only fullyfunctional for the whole family, but are alsobrilliant, eye-catching features that incorporatethe surrounding natural beauty. This stunningpool is no exception.

The pool features a glass wall across twosides, a raised feature wall on the boundaryside and a long leisure seat for relaxation.The surrounding box hedges enhance the

cerulean of the water, and the pool’s easyaccess to the garden makes this the perfectoutdoor entertainment area.

For ease of maintenance, Pride Pools hasinstalled an Astral sand lter and pump, a Rola-Chem pH and liquid chlorinator, a PCC2000fully automatic pop-up cleaning system andSunbather solar heating.

Pride Pools’ founder, Darryl Walters, hasbeen building pools since 1973 and formedthe company in 1981. His extensive industryexperience means he has an excellent workingrelationship with the company’s tradespeople,many of whom have worked with Pride Poolsfor more than 20 years.

When rst building a pool, Pride Pools isdedicated to ensuring homeowners receivethe best possible service. Before beginningconstruction, the company will discuss withclients their needs and the extent of workrequired while staying within budget. PridePools also believes that a good design needsto capture every requirement — from poolshape, depth and nishes to pool surroundingsand council requirements.

Building about 60 to 70 pools each year,from all types of domestic pools, includingin-ground spas and splash pools, to the most

demanding large constructions and projects oncomplex sites or difcult-to-access blocks, thisproject was another great feat for Pride Pools.

Pride Pools, a member of HIA and SPASA,has won many awards. And although it hasreceived numerous accolades over the years,Darryl’s greatest satisfaction is delivering ahigh-quality pool to each client. BH

more info?Pride Pools02 9436 2711pridepools.com.au

The surrounding box hedges enhance the cerulean of thewater, and the pool’s easy access to the garden makes this

the perfect outdoor entertainment area

BEST HOME

FUN IN THE SUN



Waterco’s Hydroxypure watertreatment system is set to makea splash in the minds of poolowners across the globe. For pool

water that is completely free of odours and taste,while being soft and gentle on the skin and eveneliminating the need for showering post-swim,Hydroxypure is a dream.

This is fantastic news for those looking fora healthy alternative to chlorine. Endorsed by

the National Asthma Council Australia andapproved by its Sensitive Choice program,Hydroxypure is recognised as a product that issupportive of asthma and allergy care.

A pure alternative to traditional sanitisers,Hydroxypure eliminates regular consumables suchas salt, chlorine and stabiliser. It also allows yourfamily to swim in fresh, clean water. Hydroxypureis especially suited to indoor pools as the freshwater ensures high air quality and no chlorinesmell. Chlorine- and salt-free, Hydroxypureis also good news for those with eczema andallergies. Enriched with oxygen, it’s the onlysanitisation system to receive a tick of approvalfrom the National Asthma Council Australia. GoldCoast-based inventor Nick Briscoe was inspiredto come up with a chlorine-free pool to enable hisyoungest son Dalton, who suffers from eczema, toswim in the family’s pool.

With minimal maintenance required,Hydroxypure is an affordable solution which canbe installed in new swimming pools or retrottedto salt or chlorinated pools. Setting it apartfrom traditional sanitation systems is its fullyautomated sanitisation and pH control, making

Hydroxypure highly effective in maintaining poolsanitisation and water chemistry.

“The Hydroxypure system is fully automatedfor complete peace of mind,” explains BryanGoh, Waterco director. “It continually sanitisesyour swimming pool by testing the water andautomatically maintaining optimum levels ofresidual sanitiser. It is also able to cleverlyadjust its dosing, responding to high bathingloads, hot weather, rain and pool top-ups.

The pH level of your pool’s water is alsoautomatically adjusted, ensuring optimumwater quality and protecting you and your poolfrom less-than-favourable conditions.”

Once a Hydroxypure system is installed,your pool has the ability to take care of itself,including stain-free splash marks on the

glass pool fences. Waterco’s Hydroxypurealso extends the life of the pool surface, poolequipment and surrounding landscaping.

Waterco has simplied advanced drinkingwater treatment technology and applied it totreating swimming pool water. The Hydroxypuresanitisation system is based on the Advance

Oxidation Process (AOP), which combinesPerox, a hydrogen peroxide-based sanitiser,and hybrid ozone to enhance the sanitisationprocess. The Advance Oxidation Process has thesuperior ability to remove bacterial threats moreeffectively than any other oxidation processcurrently available on the market.

The use of ozone and Perox in harmonyincreases active oxygen levels in the water.The synergy ensures the safety of your waterenvironment without creating harmful chemicalby-products. The end result is a swimming poolthat’s totally chlorine-free and enriched withoxygen, making it one of the most signicantinnovations in pool water treatment in 20 years. B

more info?Waterco

02 9898 8643

waterco.com

190 BEST HOMES

Pure pool For a truly chlorine-free pool, Waterco’s Hydroxypure has the refreshing feelingof a natural spring

FEELING FRESH



192 BEST HOMES

Fresh and cleanContemporary lines and a modern designencourage resort-style living at home



Good design is crucial to a functionaland beautiful outdoor space. Attentionto detail as well as clever plant choiceswill complete it and turn it into an

inviting area. It is therefore vital that you choosea landscaper who can create a design that willenhance the beauty and practicality of your space.

Insight Landscapes can do just that. Payingcareful attention to the requests of their clients,and with years of experience behind them,the Insight Landscapes team are professionalsin the business. The featured backyard is anexample of their expertise; it clearly blendswith the pool and existing home while offeringa functional spot for the owners.

The clients requested a space that could beutilised for fun with their children, as well asa place of relaxation. Hardwood decking wasincorporated to create a contemporary nish tothe overall space, with timber feature walls oneither end adding extra character.

Travertine paving features to the perimeter ofthe pool, the colours cleverly chosen to blend

with the home and patio. The design allowsfor plenty of grassed space for the children toplay on as well as the ideal spot for backyardbarbecues during summer.

Clint Gearside established InsightLandscapes, and with more than 12 years in thebusiness, has gained a reputation for creatingstylish and practical landscapes of a highstandard. The company works on more than 150pool areas each year in Sydney, specialising inpool surrounds and residential landscapes. TheInsight team strives to create areas that theirclients can connect with and enjoy using.

Insight Landscapes is a member of theLandscape Contractors Association and MasterBuilders Australia. BH

more info? Insight Landscapes02 4648 0188insightlandscapes.com.au

BEST HOME

CONTEMPORARY CLASS



This company doesn’t call itselfUrban Escape for nothing, as thisbackyard swimming pool really is anurban escape for the whole family.

The owners’ brief was for an easy, care-freepool, one that was big enough for the kids toswim laps but would still leave enough room foran outdoor lounge and sunny garden.

A sharp design featuring a large geometricswimming pool with a swim-out ledge was builtinto existing rock, with both the construction ofthe pool and landscaping done by Urban Escape.Framed by chic travertine pavers and dynamicblue mosaic tiles, an inviting and fresh feel isgiven to the overall design.

The young active family wanted to use thepool regularly to relax, host pool parties, and

194 BEST HOMES

Perfect balanceThis pool successfully complements thearchitecture of the new home and theneeds of the owners



as a place for the kids to cool off after sportstraining. It was therefore situated to the right ofthe backyard, leaving a grassy area for the kidsto run and play once out of the water.

A frameless glass fence separates the grassedlawn and pool, providing safety for the youngchildren while ensuring a pleasant visual aesthetic.

Urban Escape believes balance and harmonywith the existing surrounds is a principle ofgood pool design and is pleased with howthis pool complements the architecture ofthe existing home as well as the needs of theowners. The pool has proven to be a great useof a large residential block and a fantastic andpractical family swimming pool.

Urban Escape owner Nick McCarthy startedthe award-winning structural landscape company

more than 17 years ago. Market demand inspiredNick to become a licensed pool builder as henoticed more and more people were lookingfor one company to look after both the poolconstruction and landscaping.

Offering a truly comprehensive solutionto any outdoor area, Urban Escape buildsapproximately seven to 10 pools each year.

As a member of SPASA and LNA, UrbanEscape has been recognised for its impressivedesign and execution of projects with manyindustry awards. Most recently it won a goldstate award and gold metropolitan award forswimming pool construction in the $50–$100K category at the 2014 SPASA Awardsfor Excellence. BH

more info? Urban Escape02 9417 8004urbanescape.com.au

BEST HOME

OUT DOOR ACCESSORY



196 BEST HOMES

California dreamingThe casual feel of this contemporary outdoor

space lends itself perfectly to the owner’s lifestyle aan avid entertainer

ENTERTAINING IN STYLE



BEST HOME



198 BEST HOMES


“The request from the client was for a

design with an amazing entertaining space and outdoor kitchen” — Matthew Leacy



This casual yet contemporary outdoorentertaining space in a coastal suburb

of Sydney has the look and feel ofa Palm Springs resort. Designed by

Matthew Leacy of Landart Landscapes, it’s anoutdoor retreat that has it all.

“The request from the client was for a designwith an amazing entertaining space and outdoorkitchen,” says Matthew. “There was also anugly spa that needed to be hidden somewherein the design and a stack-stone wall that was toremain but somehow be softened. Capturing andcomplementing the view was important, too,but the rest was basically up to me. I was reallylucky to have such good clients who were alsoreally passionate about the space.”

The large Aloe barberae trees framing theentrance to the deck and the house are thesignature pieces of this space. “They add somescale to balance out the predominantly tall housewithout screening the view; they also have anamazing structure and look incredible when lit,”adds Matthew. “Like the aloes, the other plantswere chosen for their structural form, colour andcontrasting foliage, as well as their hardiness inthe coastal location. These included Dracaena

draco , Pennisetum , Carex , Poa and Senecio .

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200 BEST HOMES


Sustainable Australian hardwood was used toconstruct the deck, barbecue and barbecue shade

structure. This is complemented by raw concreteoating pads that form the transition betweenthe deck and the pool. Across from the outdoorkitchen is a long bench that almost looks as ifit is levitating. This divides the spaces withoutenclosing them. Other inspired elements are thebackrests, disguised within the daybed. Thesecan be adjusted via remote control so you don’tneed to get up to change the incline … perfectfor relaxing by the pool. The Landart Landscapesconstruction team faced an array of challengeswhen creating this garden, but the trickiest wasgetting the huge aloes down three storeys andacross a 150m distance from street to gardenwithout using a crane. “We managed to wrestle

and winch them all the way down. It is amazingwhat a strong, well-organised team can achievewhen they set their minds to it,” says Matthew. BH

more info?Landart Landscapes02 9958 0462landart.com.au

Large Aloe barberae trees framing theentrance to the deck and the house are the

signature pieces of this space



202 BEST HOMES

ROOFTOP GARDEN

Amid the bustling streets of Sydney,atop a modern unit block, sits abalcony unlike any other. JoshHarrison of Harrison’s Landscaping

has transformed an empty concrete balconyinto an inviting, versatile outdoor space thatencourages both relaxation and entertainment.

“I was asked to create a lush, stylishentertaining space with both dining and loungingareas that was inviting and would be used tosoften the vast amounts of plain concrete andboring oor tiles,” says Josh.

The balcony is wrapped around the north-eastcorner of the building, allowing for spectacularmorning sunlight and uninterrupted views of

Randwick Racecourse. The style of this spaceneeded to suit the social appetite of the clientswhile still celebrating the breathtaking view andvisual openness of the angled roof.

“I love the contrast between the benchseats and the balcony itself, I think it’s agreat example of effective balcony/rooftopgarden design,” says Josh. The natural elementcombination of sandstone, potted plants andhardwood timber used throughout the balconyinvites the homeowners to unwind by creatinga tranquil and comfortable atmosphere thatcontrasts with the busy city below. As Joshexplains: “Even though you look out towards thecity, it’s a very relaxing place to be.”

ABOVE The entranceway to the balcony includesa large sandstone step, hardwood timber deck, andthree pots at the end of the decking that are plantedwith Buxus balls and Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’



“Just because our clients live six oors abovthe street shouldn’t stop them from enjoying

the benets of a beautifully designed

garden balcony” — Josh Harrison

BEST HOMES



204 BEST HOMES

ROOFTOP GARDEN

Constructing the six-storey-high balconygarden proved challenging once it came time totransport the materials up. “We had to pre-cutthe lengths of timber so they would t in thelift. Two guys were going up and down the liftcarting materials for three straight days just to geteverything up there,” says Josh. “Just because ourclients live six oors above the street shouldn’tstop them from enjoying the benets of abeautifully designed garden balcony.”

Following the brief, Josh designed twospecic focus areas on the balcony: lounge anddining. “These areas are separated by a raised,hardwood timber deck,” says Josh, who adds“the deck creates the transition from insidethe unit to out on the balcony”. The deck is

complemented by a sandstone step surroundedby pebbles masking the deck’s edge, creating aseamless, organic entrance onto the balcony.

The lounge area consists of two hardwoodtimber benches clad with sandstone that arestrategically placed to enclose the coffee table inan open-plan lounge. The L-shaped bench thatruns along the wall and deck includes a sunkenplanter, which houses a ddle leaf g plant,chosen for its unusual foliage and effective abilityto soften the look of the concrete wall behind.

At the far end of the lounging area are threeyuccas planted in lightweight cube pots aswell as a large water bowl with lilies in it. Theplants chosen needed to be durable and able toprosper in harsher conditions than normal. “The

conditions up on the balcony were completelydifferent to those on the ground, as it’s oftenwindier, drier and hotter. We chose plants thatwould thrive in these conditions and be able tohandle a bit of neglect,” explains Josh.

At the opposite end of the balcony is asecond hardwood, L-shaped bench seat with asunken planter that looks out towards RandwickRacecourse and is used to enclose the diningarea. For night-time dining and entertaining,the bench seat includes low-voltage lighting to

accentuate the seating and dining area withoutdrawing attention from the view. The balconyedge connected to the dining area is left openwith plenty of standing space.

The balcony design sits low to the groundand ts neatly beneath the glass screen of thebalcony edge. This low-lying design gives addedprivacy from the ground, while adding to theillusion of space when combined with the angledrooftop. Josh’s use of organic elements in boththe dining and lounge area maintains a levelof modern sophistication while still creating ahomely and relaxed feeling. “While the styleis quite contemporary, it is also very warm andinviting. We didn’t want the design to be tooserious or formal as it wouldn’t have suitedour clients and most importantly, the way theyplanned to use the space,” says Josh. BH

more info?Harrison’s Landscaping02 9986 3112harrisonslandscaping.com.au

While the style is quite

contemporary,it is also verywarm and

inviting



Sun and wind protection are vital toenhancing any outdoor room. Byshading or protecting your outdoorroom from the elements, it is more

functional all-year-round.Retractable roofs and folding-arm awnings

can provide sun and rain protection when youmost need it, and without impacting upon yourenjoyment of your outdoor area.

Incorporating these highly functional featuresneedn’t detract from the style of your home.Since 1987 Blinds by Peter Meyer has beenmanufacturing high-quality designer blindsand awnings and has authorised dealers acrossAustralia and New Zealand.

“Our product range and selection is by farone of the broadest around. We manufacture

a massive number of exclusive products thatwill set your home apart from the rest,” saysBlinds by Peter Meyer’s Simon Meyer. In amajor coup for the Australian company, ithas recently been appointed as the exclusivedistributor of renowned European awningmanufacturer Weinor. With both companiesholding a solid heritage in the eld, plus afocus on precision and quality, the partnershipis a perfect match. Simon stresses theimportance of good quality, particularly when“your products live outside!”.

The latest Weinor awnings have beenturning heads, winning multiple design awardsthroughout Europe. As well as offering 56standard frame colours and more than 200exclusive fabric options, the new Weinor range

includes built-in heaters and LED lighting —useful features for any outdoor room or area.

Also among Blinds by Peter Meyer’s newproducts is a range of side screens, perfect fordeecting wind, to make outside entertainingand dining easier and more enjoyable.

The company offers a full measure andinstallation service, as well as expert adviceon selecting the right product to suit youroutdoor room. BH

more info?Blinds by Peter Meyer1800 254 631petermeyerblinds.com.au

206 BEST HOMES

Shade & protect A European awning manufacturer has teamed up with an Aussiecompany for shading solutions that focus on quality and style

OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE



Uber styStunning Designs

Cutting Edge Technology

Uncompromising Quality

German Precision

Weinor Folding Arm + Conservatory Awning Systems from Peter Meyer

Zenara LED Casse t t e O pa l De si gn L ED Cassette C as si t a l l LE D Ca ss et t e Paravent o Side Screen Panels Plaza Home & Conservat

We’re extremely proud to announce our stunning new Weinor range of awnings,crafted to the highest standards, incorporating unique innovation and technologywith German precision.

The wide range of unique Weinor awnings, fabrics, frame colours and accessoriesis exclusive to Blinds by Peter Meyer in Australia & NZ.

View our complete range online at: www.petermeyerblinds.com.au orFreecall us on: 1 800 254 631 for the details of your closest dealer.

BlindsBy Peter Meyer

Head Office + Showroom25 Richmond Rd Homebush NSW

Freecall Aust: 1 800 254 631NZ Phone: +64 9 302 2499

www.petermeyerblinds.com.au



208 BEST HOMES

Second to noneCreate a comfortable outdoor room with a shading system to suit your home



Designed and manufactured inGermany to strict quality standards,the complete range of Markiluxproducts was created with the

harsh Australian climate in mind. Withmore than 40 years’ experience in technicalresearch and innovation, the company offersa solution to protect your outdoor areas,windows, balconies and even skylights withcustom-made systems using the world’s bestmachinery and materials. Its range of outdoorblinds and folding-arm awnings is ideal forany conditions, whether your home is on thecoast or located in a hot, dry climate.

Utilising progressive German technology,the company was the rst to engineer theBionic Tendon folding-arm element. With aneat, modern nish, every blind in the rangeis fully retractable and, when not in use, iseither totally concealed or barely noticeable.Markilux was also the rst to create nano-coated fabrics and frames that have a self-cleaning effect.

Protection from sun isn’t the only benetof installing a Markilux shading system. Withincreasing power bills, saving energy has becomeparamount and outdoor blinds are an excellent wayto save dollars. As the sun’s heat mainly entersa home through its glazing, shading windowscan eliminate the need to articially heat or cool.Markilux awnings can block up to 95 per cent ofthe sun’s heat from entering a dwelling and eithereliminate or drastically reduce the need to aircondition in summer. Outdoor vertical blinds canalso help to retain heat inside during winter.

Whether you want to spend more timeoutdoors or make your indoor spaces morecomfortable without wasting money on energybills, a shading system is a good idea. BH

more info?

Markilux Australia

1300 654 469

markilux.com.au

BEST HOMES

TAKING COVER



With summer around the corner,barbecues are being lit, poolscleaned and decks swept. Peopleall across the country are gearing

up for another fantastic Australian summer.Often this excitement is tarnished when you

step out onto the deck and realise what three to sixmonths of neglect has done to your outdoor room.Your timber decking is cracking and swellingaround the screw holes, the paint on your privacyscreen is bubbling under the surface and the fencelooks like it could fall over in a stiff breeze.

We’ve all toiled away trying to make ouroutdoor rooms look new again — sanding andvarnishing, oiling decks over and over andspending our weekends renovating. What if youcould spend the weekends leading up to summerdoing the things you enjoy instead of staying athome to work on the house?

Knotwood provides a range of extrudedaluminium products that give style to youroutdoor area while eliminating the maintenanceassociated with timber. Unlike wood/plasticcomposites, Knotwood remains light and easy

to work with because it’s made from powder-coated aluminium rather than wood.

Owned and run by Australians, Knotwooduses local materials to make products suitablefor our unique conditions. Its products are

available in more than 30 timber-look nishesand a large range of powder-coat colours.Each nish is backed by a 10-year warrantyand exceeds Australian nishing standards.The company’s range of products is availablenationwide with a network of professionalsthat provide installation services to most of thecountry. Call Knotwood for a free sample. BH

more info?Knotwood

1300 566 896 (1300 KN OTWOOD)

knotwood.com.au

210 BEST HOMES

Save timeSpend less time on maintenance andmore time enjoying your outdoor room

ALUMINIUM BEAUTY



STANMORE - MARRICKVILLE - WOLLONGONG I p 02 9516 0011 I www.newageoutdoors. com.au

RADIANT STRIP HEATING



212 BEST HOMES

Elegant,modern andintelligent

Guiding the eye with clean linesand clever features

POOL PARTY



BEST HOME



214 BEST HOMES

Pearls of water seem to levitate andcatch the light in this example ofsublime, modern pool design. JadeSwimming Pools, an award-winning

company that designs and builds custom pools,had the exciting brief to design a pool thatcaught the eye and utilised the home’s outdoorspace. Working closely with the owners,Jade Pools designed this Sydney pool to takeadvantage of limited space by using the pool’sown lines to create a perception of amplitudewithin the backyard.

The team also designed a feature in thecentre of the pool to capture the attention ofvisitors. Within the minimal framing of a whitecolumn arrangement, a water feature rainsdown into the pool to create a small waterfall.Utility and aesthetics were prioritised in thisdesign, with an elegant nod to Europeanarchitecture that lets you imagine you have just

jumped off a yacht into the turquoise waters ofthe Mediterranean. It would be impossible to

stop the kids from spending their hot summersunderneath the water feature.

At 7m long, the pool is met at one end withuniquely designed raised plinths that guide youinto the pool and give the beautiful impression ofoating islands in the water. These major featuresshaped the Jade Pools design, allowing other subtleelements to maximise the outdoor space. The poolis framed by dark, rich woodwork which, throughboth its lateral placement and colour, accentuatesthe contrast of the pool’s white rendered structureand contributes to a feeling of spaciousness.Sustainable construction is pursued throughthe use of reinforced steel, which guarantees tomaximise the pool’s lifespan. BH

more info?Jade Swimming Pools02 9686 6000

jadepools.com.au

POOL PARTY



BEST HOME



218 BEST HOMES

Safeguard your stone A deep-penetrating invisible sealer designed to protectnatural stone and paving



With the right treatment, it’s easy tokeep even the most porous naturalstone and paving, as well as tileand brick, looking great for many

years. Treating a porous surface with the rightimpregnating sealer also makes cleaning easier.

Staining is the most common problem affectingporous materials, such as stone paving and steps,but there are other common types of damage.Water can be harmless but if stone or paving is

wet for long enough, mould and bacteria cantake hold and the material can be softened andweakened. Water also contains minerals (salts)that can leave unsightly residues or stains andeven cause major corrosion of pavers and tiles.

Australia is a land of innovation and it’sno surprise that the world’s most advancedimpregnating sealers for protecting porous surfacescome from Dry-Treat, an Australian company.

Dry-Treat’s invisible impregnating sealersprovide many advantages over traditionaltopical (coating) and impregnating sealers. “Ourtechnology comes down to two basic things,” saysDry-Treat’s global marketing manager, GabrielChapman. “Our impregnating sealers penetratemuch deeper and our special water- and oil-repelling molecules actually bond permanentlyinside the treated material so you get a very deepand a very long-lasting barrier of protection.”

Dry-Treat’s agship STAIN-PROOF sealernot only protects natural stone, paving andtiles against stains to keep them looking good,it also maintains the slip-resistance of thesurface, retards moss and mildew growth andmakes the surface easier to clean. A 15-year

performance warranty is available whenSTAIN-PROOF is applied by an accreditedapplicator, although the simple applicationinstructions have made it very popular for DIYuse as well.

“Dry-Treat’s reputation has spread over 30countries, largely by word of mouth, becauseour sealers really do work,” says Gabriel.“Today, STAIN-PROOF protects thousandsof homes and many well-known public iconsincluding the Melbourne Cricket Ground, thenew BBC Scotland headquarters, the DallasCowboys stadium, city malls, famous hotels andmonuments. So we are very comfortable backingour products with extraordinary warranties.”

For product information and contactdetails of Dry-Treat dealers and accreditedapplicators, call the number below or visit theDry-Treat website. BH

more info? Dry-Treat1800 675 119drytreat.com

BEST HOME

A STONE’S THROW AWAY



PRINT. DIGITAL.BOTH.

HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS. IDEAS ARE ONE TOUCH AWAY.

boho dreamingin SoHo

The New York apartment of one half of a Monaco-basedinterior architecture rm blends luxe with hipster to

create an appealing inner-city abode

The loft’s centrepiece is the lounge,with acustom-madesofa, a1970svintagetableby Paul Evans, anda bleached hardwood oak floor

HOMEDESIGN 101

NEW YORK LOFT

genius trickTheheadboard in oneofthethreebedrooms is as much a feature as

a practicality

A B&B Italia bed and a grey suedeheadboardbyElitisarehighlightsofthebedroom,whichalsofeaturesbedsidetablesbyFratelliBoffiandartwork,curtainandcushionscreatedbythehomeowner

109108

NEW YORKLOFT

109

FREEDIGITALEDITION

12 months of boththe print and digital

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Immediate digitalaccess

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BEST HOMES

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kate St James, FDIAMANAGING EDITOR

Karsha GreenSUB EDITOR

Anastasia CaseyCONTRIBUTORS

Tessa Hoult, Danielle Townsend, Annabelle ClorosAlex Longstaff, Thomas Lockey, Karen Booth

PHOTOGRAPHERS & STYLISTS Marian Riabic, Andrew Lecky,

Clive Buxton, Tim TurnerDESIGNER

Katharine McKinnonADVERTISING PRODUCTION

Anna Cindric, Rebecca EastmanADVERTISING

Rosemary Wood [email protected] ENQUIRIES

Sydney head office (02) 9805 0399

CHAIRMAN CEO Prema PereraPUBLISHER Janice Williams

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Vicky MahadevaASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Emma Perera

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Karen DayCIRCULATION DIRECTOR Mark Darton

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kate PodgerPRINT PRODUCTION MANAGER Lilian Ohanessian

EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER Anastasia CaseyPREPRESS MANAGER Ivan Fitz-Gerald

MARKETING & ACQUISITIONS MANAGER Chelsea Peters

Best Homes No. 2 is published by Universal Magazines, Unit 5, 6–8 Byfield Street, North Ryde NSW 2113. Phone: 02 9805 0399, Fax: 02 9805 0714. Melbourneoffice, Level 1, 150 Albert Street, South Melbourne Vic 3205 Phone: 03 9694 6444, Fax: 03 9699 7890. Printed by Toppan Leefung, China, distributed byNetwork Services, 175-183 Castlereagh Street, Sydney. Distributed in Singapore and Malaysia by CARKIT (FE) Pte Ltd, Singapore, Phone: 65 62821 960.

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indexPROJECTS

Bellemore Homes ................................................................................ 72Canny .................................................................................................. 40GJ Gardner Homes............................................................................... 96

Graeme Alexander Homes ................................................................... 34Gremmo Homes ................................................................................... 78Ground Control ................................................................................. 176Harrison’s Landscaping ..................................................................... 201Insight Landscapes ............................................................................ 192Jade Pools .......................................................................................... 212Jakin Con structions ............................................................................ 1 00Johnson Property Group ...................................................................... 60Landart Landscapes ........................................................................... 196Markilux Australia ............................................................................. 208Narellan Pools ................................................................................... 126Neil Fletcher Design ............................................................................ 14SiteDesign + Studios.......................................................................... 168Swanbuild ............................................................................................ 56To the Mil .......................................................................................... 180Urban Escape ..................................................................................... 194

ADVERTISERS

ACG Building .........................................................................62, 67, 150Aspect Designs ............................................................................ 48, IBCA Total Concept ................................................................. IFC, 130, 134Australian BBQ Manufacturers ............................................................ 55HW Barnwell ....................................................................................... 39BDC Building Services .................................................................. 90, 95

Bisazza .............................................................................................. 184Blinds by Peter Meyer ............................................................... 206, 207CASF Australia ...................................................................110, 114, 174

Chateau Architects + Builders ............................................................... 4CMS Building & Design ................................................................ 68, 71Crystal Pools .............................................................................. 146, 149Dan Kitchens ..................................................................................... 116Dana Kitchens ............................................................................. 33, 118Designer Staircases .............................................................................. 47Dry-Treat ................................................................................... 175 , 218Eco Design ................................................................................ 154, 157Elite Garden Ornaments ............................................................. 158, 161Euroluce .............................................................................................. 12GOODMANORS ..............................................................138, 216, OBCHouse of Bamboo .......................................................................... 6, 144Knotwood .......................................................................................... 210Marble & Ceramic Corp ...................................................................... 21Mint Kitchens .................................................................................... 112MyAlfresco .......................................................................................... 89New Age Outdoors ............................................................................. 211Pride Pools ............................................................................11, 162, 188SFN Constructions ......................................................................... 84, 85Starr Constructions .................................................................... 8, 22, 28Tecton Group ....................................................................................... 27Think Outside .................................................................................... 220Tombo Design .................................................................................... 167Waterco ...................................................................................... 190, 191Wincrest ............................................................................................... 77

226 BEST HOMES



2/82 Pacic HighwaySt Leonards

55/61 Marlborough Street

Surry Hills

Phone: 0418 460 714aspectdesigns.com.au

Aspect has a unique service blending innovativedesign concepts for today’s lifestyle with practicalconstruction expertise producing award winninghomes expressing your individuality and style.

Established since 1980

WINNERS of over 30 MBA and HIA awards

EXCELLENCE IN DESI GN, CO NSTRU C TION

AND MANA G EMENT

D E S I G N S . C O M . A U

Best Homes Issue 2 - 2015 AU.pdf

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