Bunnings Magazine January 2022

E EEZIN FRAGA

M

January 2022

Happy new look!

ONE SHED, THREE WAYS: YOGA STUDIO ✚ HOME OFFICE ✚ GARDENER’S RETREAT

20

TIPS FOR A NO-FUSS HOUSE MOVE

From this... to a DIY workspace

HERE COMES SUMMER: Plan an outdoor

kitchen ✚ Add a spa ✚ Help your garden thrive

New year.

New ways to pay at Bunnings.

Nail your new year resolutions with flexible 2 - 18 month plans, up to 15k.

No interest. None.

Why pay in 4, when you can pay in more?

Terms & conditions: Openpay available to approved applicants only.

Fees, T&Cs and eligibility criteria applies. Visit opy.com/au/legal-stuff/ for full details.

The magazine team

Editor Jane Parbury Associate editor Shelley Tustin Art director Bridie Mahoney Creative services manager Katharine McKinnon Senior designer Carol Baldas Style editor Matilda Roberts Chief subeditors Catherine Sanders, Frances Pearson Senior subeditor Lorna Gow Junior digital producer Amanda Ghalaini Content co-ordinator Anna McDonald Contributors Lisa Balemi, Tom Lazarus, Judie Siu, Harriet Upjohn

JANUARY

New horizons

For any queries or feedback, please call the magazine team on (03) 8831 9777 or forward to the attention of Bunnings Magazine Team, 16-18 Cato Street, Hawthorn East, Victoria 3123. Products featured in the magazine are on offer while stocks last. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Colours may vary slightly from images shown due to the printing process. Prices shown are Bunnings prices at the time of publication and some prices may vary in regional areas.

Pricing is to be used as a guide only.

This publication is not for sale.

PETITE PERFECTION A tiny balcony gets a big makeover

31

Plan it CHALLENGE ACCEPTED! Be inspired by this stunning low-water garden

36 SMOOTH MOVES

20 tips to ace your removal-truck packing

47 DINING OUT

How to design the perfect alfresco kitchen area

Update it 53 SPLASH ZONE

Simple steps to adding a spa to the backyard

57

STORMY WEATHER

Help guard your home against extreme events

STAYIN’ ALIVE 62

Nurture your plants during a hot spell

22

66

Easy decor ideas for the smallest outdoor spaces

Do it TOOLS OF THE TRADE Your essential gardening kit explained

JUST ADD WATER 69

Set up a wicking bed for vegies

PROJECT: SHED SHAPE-UP 72

Every effort has been taken to ensure instructions for DIY projects are correct.

However, before you undertake any DIY activity, please ensure that you have the appropriate skills for the task at hand, use the correct tools and that you wear the appropriate safety equipment. Any professional installations must be undertaken by a licensed tradesperson. Editorial content is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for legal or professional advice.

Published by Medium Rare Content Agency Pty Ltd. ABN 83 169 879 921, Level 1, 83 Bowman Street, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 for Bunnings Warehouse, ABN 26 008 672 179, 16-18 Cato Street, Hawthorn East, Victoria 3123. © 2022.

All rights reserved.

One timber shed, three ways to hack it, whether you want to work, garden or just relax

22

National advertising manager Alek Jovanoski (02) 8114 8955 NSW account manager Anthony Sullivan (02) 8114 8954 Victoria business manager Rosanna Costa (03) 9292 2273 Victoria junior account manager & sales support Claire Wischusen (03) 9292 2297 General magazine enquiries bunningsmag@bunnings.com.au (03) 8831 9777 Managing director Gerard Reynolds Executive general manager Sally Wright Chief operating officer Fiorella di Santo Head of sales Annii Hirst Group content director Nick Smith Head of content, Food & Homes Julie Lee Digital strategy director Karla Courtney Social strategy director Scott Drummond Finance manager Leslie To

Dream it 12 SHED TO CHATEAU

DIY designs to tailor make your cabin

CUSTOM CUPBOARD 79

Simple tweaks to off-the-rack wardrobes

Regulars WHAT’S HAPPENING IN JANUARY 7

News, special buys and things to do

SUMMER COLOUR 82

31

A gorgeous garden against the odds

12

Choose bright blooms for your hanging baskets

Relax in style with a custom cabin revamp

Share your DIY creations with us or get inspiration for your next project.

Use the hashtag #Bunningsmag CONNECT WITH US

instagram.com/bunnings

pinterest.com.au/bunnings

youtube.com/bunningswarehouse

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 5

JANUARY

Mountview 4-6 person large family camping tent in Blue, $176.69*, I/N: 0290757

Editor’s letter

Welcome!

T

his time last year we were hoping for better things in 2021... well, that didn’t quite work out as planned.

Whatever else is in store in 2022, after seeing the transformations wrought on a plain timber shed (page 12) I’ve decided I need a shed in my life. However, I’m just not sure what to go for. As I like to get out in the garden, a potting shed would probably be my first pick, but who wouldn’t love a me-time Backyard beauty!

See page 72

NEWS

CAMP KIT

Whether you’re pitching a tent or relaxing in a caravan, don’t forget these necessities (plus a few luxuries) on your next nature getaway.

retreat, or a quiet place to WFH away from the hustle and bustle of the house? Choices, choices...

We also have inspiration for other big projects – an outdoor kitchen must be high on the list for keen entertainers (page 47), while a cute makeover on a basic balcony (page 22) shows just what you can do with a few stylish and well-chosen buys.

THINGS YOU’LL NEED...

2

1

3 6

5

4

Enjoy the issue!

Printed by Ovato Print Ltd. Paper fibre is from well-managed forests and other controlled sources.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered by a Bunnings Marketplace Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

1 HPM 15A extra heavy duty caravan extension cable, $28.03/10m, I/N: 4430367.

2 Ampfibian 15A weatherproof caravan surge protector with outlet tester, $89.99, I/N: 0056924. 3 Samba ‘Firestarters’ firelighter with match head, $4.48/pack of 24, I/N: 0255316. 4 Thermacell ‘Rugged’ repeller with refill, $58, I/N: 3340516. 5 Protector ‘Home and Travel’ 75 piece C-compliant first aid kit, $24.85, I/N: 6100257. 6 Gasmate ‘Camping’ LPG gas cylinder, $39.95/4kg, I/N: 3232969.

... AND USEFUL UPGRADES

1

2

Words Amanda Ghalaini. Photography (editor) Sue Stubbs. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

Battery recycling Bunnings is now collecting household and power tool batteries for recycling at every store across Australia. The national battery recycling program will make battery recycling even easier for retail and trade customers and is expected to recycle over 240,000kgs of batteries in the first year. Wherever you are, you’ll always have a drop-off site close by. More details at bunnings. com.au/about-us/sustainability.

3 5 4 1 Oztrail ‘Cosmos’ folding double chair, $69, I/N: 3192545. 2 Arlec 900 lumen rechargeable camping lantern, $39.98, I/N: 0174968.

3 Wooshka 14" camp oven, $107.50, I/N: 3171611†. 4 Gasmate 2 burner portable camping stove, $59.95, I/N: 3236060. 5 Two Trees blue stripe double hammock kit, $107, I/N: 3192655. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 7

PET PREFERENCES

FROM CARE MUST-HAVES TO TRENDY SPLURGES, MARKETPLACE IS YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR PET SUPPLIES

1

2

3

4

Paws & Claws 93.5cm large elevated pet/dog sofa/bed with removable cushion in Grey, $99*, I/N: 0248089

5

LUXE FOR LESS Paw Mate ‘Deluxe-F’ dog cat foldable pet grooming salon table in White, $121*, I/N: 0338220

67

Petkit ‘Everclean’ 8cm hair removing cat/dog pet massage comb/grooming brush in White, $6*, I/N: 0284943

8

9

Pawfect Pals ‘Sunshine On My Mind’ collar, $27, I/N: 0292746

Paws & Claws 60cm dog/cat waterproof pet cooling gel mat/ pad/cushion in Watermelon, $19.95*, I/N: 0254690 Charlie’s Pet ‘Deluxe’ 62cm x 40cm x 40cm bamboo cat barrel scratcher, $69*, I/N: 0338203

Charlie’s Pet 83cm x 61cm x 29cm large bamboo elevated pet bed in Brown, $179*, I/N: 0321286 This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered by a Bunnings Marketplace Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

8 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Tiles turned into side tables is a DIY trend we can’t get enough of – and a great way to get the look of luxury products into your home. This simple yet stylish table was made by Bunnings Workshop member Samantha, from Tasmania. After spotting a large marble-look paver in her local Bunnings garden section, Samantha went straight to the furniture hardware aisle to give the paver new purpose. She secured hairpin legs to the underside of the paver using Selleys ‘Hold Up’ glue, then left it to dry for 24 hours. If travertine is more your style, flip to page 24 to see how we used it in a petite balcony transformation.

Tuscan Path 600mm x 600mm x 20mm porcelain paver in Marble, $25.92, I/N: 0129327. Taskmaster 400mm x 10mm hairpin steel table leg in Matt Black, $14.70, I/N: 0038470. Selleys ‘Hold Up’ construction adhesive, $14.99/290g, I/N: 0130875. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Scan the QR code Scan or visit this URL to see Samantha’s handiwork: bunnings. com.au/marble-side-table

Read it!

Words Amanda Ghalaini. †Available to order online and from the Special Orders Desk.

La Doggie Vita ‘Feed Me Meow Mouse’ ceramic cat bowl, $14.99*, I/N: 0229883

Cooper & Co. ‘Charlie’ oval rattan pet bed, $149.95*, I/N: 0336819

2 Seeing brown patches in your grass?

It may be the work of lawn pests like curl grub or armyworm. Treat them quickly with a specialist

CREPE MYRTLE

A summer stunner with red, pink, purple or white blooms.

Prune to shape in winter.

product before they ruin the whole lawn.

Before you go away, put your indoor plants in the bath or shower and give them a good drink on the day you leave. Tiles have a cooling effect, so they may not 3 dry out as fast.

If a heatwave is forecast, water potted plants and garden beds early in the morning with diluted seaweed. This helps plants cope better with heat stress.

FRANGIPANI

Nothing says the tropics like the scent of this flowering tree. Give it full sun and well-draining soil.

After applying fertiliser around edible plants, delay harvesting for a few days and rinse well before cooking and eating. If using products to deal with pests, diseases or weeds, always read the label, follow the instructions carefully and wear suitable protective equipment.

Store all garden chemicals out of reach of children and pets.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

10 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

In the vegie garden, there’s still time to plant beans, Chinese cabbage, silverbeet, spring onion and zucchini. Improve the soil with organic matter and mulch well.

4 For the perfect feature tree, try a crepe myrtle.

They’re in full flower now, so visit the nursery in store and choose your favourite. See below for more options!

If you’re tired of soil or mulch spilling onto the lawn or driveway, use garden edging to

IVORY CURL TREE

Many white to cream flowers appear on branch tips in summer.

Nectar-rich and bird attracting.

separate the areas.

This will help to give them definition, too.

5 1 Neutrog ‘Sudden Impact for Roses’ fertiliser, $14.95/1.5kg, I/N: 3023049. 2 Yates ‘Grub Kill & Protect for Lawns’ pest control, $51.98/2.5kg, I/N: 0207184. 3 Eco-Organic Garden ‘Eco-Seaweed’ soluble fertiliser, $31.15/600g, I/N: 2962031. 4 Garden Basics organic compost, $3.98/25L, I/N: 0274306. 5 Whites 150mm x 6m corrugated continuous lawn edge in Green, $15.99, I/N: 3321034.

MAGNOLIA ‘LITTLE GEM’

A reliable performer with large white flowers and glossy foliage.

Lightly prune after flowering.

Scan the QR code For more on what to do in the garden during January, go to bunnings.com.au/gardencorner

Words Tammy Huynh. Photography Getty Images.

Lightly prune roses now to encourage a second flush of blooms in autumn.

Trim shrubs 1 lightly all over, deadhead old blooms and remove dead or diseased wood. Give them a feed with a rose fertiliser and mulch well.

Representations of products shown in this advertisement are for illustrative purposes only, and actual product may differ. FSA/TECH1084-04

A garden is so much more than just a garden. It can be a sanctuary, an alfresco dining area, a sporting arena, or just your favourite place to potter. But whatever your garden is to you, we have the tools to help you make it all your own.

ryobi.com.au

RyobiAU

ryobiau

DIY YOGA STUDIO

Stilla ‘Willow’ 3.64m x 2.55m x 2.53m cedar shed, $4,229, I/N: 3316926, used throughout (custom built deck not included)

Create a home gym meets me-time retreat

Shed to chateau

MAKE MORE OF YOUR OUTDOOR STORAGE WITH THREE INSPIRING MAKEOVERS OF A CEDAR SHED Photography LOUISE ROCHE Styling KYLIE JACKES

T Before 12 bunnings.com.au |

he garden shed is a practical place, with sparse attention given to looks – but it can be so much more than a spot to stash the mower. A little love can make it a much-needed extra room or a blissful private retreat at the bottom of the garden. Here we show how a plain shed can be turned into a spa-inspired gym space, a calming home office or the ultimate potting shed.

bunnings |

bunnings

Stilla ‘Willow’ shed, with doors in Dulux ‘Weathershield’ semi-gloss exterior paint in Vivid White.

Marquee ‘Barcelona’ steel chair with footrest in Coral, $149, I/N: 0266667. (On wall) Spider plants in Elho 69cm rectangle recycled plastic troughs in Living Concrete, $69.98 each, I/N 0266804. Dracaena plant in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 37cm x 37cm fibreglass egg pot in White, $65.98, I/N: 0252488.

Succulent in Northcote Pottery PrecinctLite ‘Omni’ medium bowl in White, $34.98, I/N: 2832581.

Walking iris plant in Respect ‘Milano’ 38cm self watering planter in Grey, $50, I/N: 0217104. Spider plant in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 26cm x 26cm fibreglass egg pot in White, $27.98, I/N: 0252485. (On lawn) Pavers, for similar try Tuscan Path 600mm x 400mm x 20mm sandstone pavers, $18.96 each, I/N: 0129314. Cushion, Feather and Oak, featherandoak.com.au.

All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own.

DREAM IT

BACKYARD BEAUTIES

MAKE IT

FABRIC CEILING, SEE FROM PAGE 72

Bend and stretch

Finding the space – mental and physical – to exercise can be tough, but turning a shed into a home gym is a fantastic solution. This space, characterised by blond timber and Scandi-style simplicity, has plenty of room to lay out the yoga mat, while a built-in daybed provides storage space for exercise gear and a comfy padded top for meditation – or snoozing (no judgement).

ABOVE Marquee ‘Barcelona’ chair, as before. HanWood ‘Home’ 1215mm x 197mm x 7mm laminate flooring boards in Mink Oak, $43.05/pack of 12 (2.872sqm), I/N: 0135639. Shelves made using structural plywood painted in Dulux ‘Weathershield’ semi gloss paint in Vivid White and Carinya 150mm x 130mm x 20mm x 15mm pine stayed brackets in White, $5 each, I/N: 0091707. (On shelves, from left) Phlebodium ‘Blue Star’ plant in Lightly ‘Goblet’ 150mm x 215mm metal pot in River, $59, I/N: 0262355. Rhipsalis plant in Lightly ‘Palm Springs’ 150mm x 215mm metal pot in Clay, $59, I/N: 0262357. (On floor) Rubber plant in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 26cm x 26cm fibreglass egg pot, as before. Yoga mat, Yogat, yogat.com.au.

RIGHT Daybed and fabric ceiling, see from page 72 for DIY instructions. Brilliant ‘Anji’ 26cm small DIY rattan pendant light, $116, I/N: 0277235 (globe sold separately). Asplenium Victorian fern plant. Cushions and throw, Adairs, adairs.com.au; Feather and Oak; H&M, www2.hm.com. All plants sold separately. All other products, stylists own.

MAKE IT

DAYBED, SEE FROM PAGE 72

Paint colours may vary on application.

Engaging a licensed electrician to fit out your revamped shed with lighting will help to extend its use in the darker months

FAR LEFT AND LEFT Daybed and fabric ceiling, see from page 72 for DIY instructions.

Brilliant ‘Anji’ 26cm small DIY rattan pendant light, as before.

(On wall) Adoored ‘Dene’ wall mounted robe hook in White, $4.34, I/N: 3962189. Yoga mat, as before. Cushions and throw, as before. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 13

DIY WORKSPACE

A quiet room to WFH or study

TIP

DEPENDING ON THE EXTERIOR PAINT YOU CHOOSE, FIRST UNDERCOAT YOUR CEDAR SHED WITH AN OIL-BASED PRIMER

Stilla ‘Willow’ cedar shed, as before, painted in Dulux ‘Weathershield’ semi gloss exterior paint in Tiamo and Vivid White, and (deck) Cabot’s Timbercolour deck and exterior paint in White.

(On deck) Croc Grip spray-on anti-slip coating in Clear, $10.90/400ml, I/N: 3962148. (Plants, from left) Aloe ‘Ivory Dawn’ plant in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 26cm x 26cm fibreglass egg pot, as before. Rhipsalis ‘Spice cactus’ plant. Euphorbia ‘Cowboy Cactus’. Assorted succulents in Northcote Pottery PrecinctLite ‘Omni’ 34cm medium bowl, as before. Rhipsalis ‘Spice cactus’ plant in Scheurich ‘Vander’ 22cm x 19cm indoor pot in White, $25.98, I/N: 2891238. Jade plant.

Aloe ‘Tangerine Tree’ in Lotus Collection 28cm x 25cm XL plain ceramic indoor egg pot in White, $23.98, I/N: 0258676. Marquee ‘Troca’ 3 piece steel bistro setting in Yellow, $95, I/N: 0263654. (Inside shed) HanWood ‘Home’ laminate flooring boards in Mink Oak, as before.

Pinnacle universal tool rack, $8.50, I/N: 2610008, wrapped in Grunt 4mm macrame cotton cord, $9/50m, I/N: 0133146. Prayer plant in Lotus Collection 28cm x 25cm plain ceramic egg pot in Cream, $23.98, I/N: 0258690. Towel, Miss April, missapril.com.au. All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own.

14 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Make sure to bring indoor pots inside during bad weather

Work it

The luxury of a separate home office could be within reach – at the bottom of your garden!

You’ll look forward to the start of a work day in this sweet number. The beachchic colour scheme offers a calming backdrop to aid focus, with a built-in desk and DIY shelf unit to cover off all the practicalities. 

MAKE IT

Paint colours may vary on application.

DESK AND SHELVING UNIT, SEE FROM PAGE 72

Custom DIY shelves keep home office necessities beautifully in order

ABOVE Desk and fabric ceiling, see from page 72 for DIY instructions. Adoored disc hooks in White, $4 each, I/N: 0089506.

Marquee ‘Rhombus’ chair in White, $44.90, I/N: 0097858. (On desk) Verve ‘Bistro’ desk lamp in White, $15.90, I/N: 0242031 (globe sold separately). Lotus 11cm x 9cm XS plain ceramic egg pot in Navy, $4.98, I/N: 0258692. 20cm terrazzo mat in White, $9.98, I/N: 0264512.

Philodendron Birkin plant in Lotus Collection ‘Dash’ 18cm x 17cm medium foot cylinder ceramic pot in Cream, $9.98, I/N: 0258722.

(On floor) Walking iris plant. Surf print, Kmart, kmart.com.au.

RIGHT Shelving, see from page 72 for DIY instructions. (On shelving, far right) Silver Lady fern plant in Lotus Collection ‘Linear’ 23.5cm x 21cm cylinder ceramic pot in Cream, $14.98, I/N: 0258710. Vase, Kmart, painted in Dulux Paddy.

All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 15

DIY POTTING SHED

This gorgeous potting shed will make you never want to leave the garden

A gardener’s dream zone for planting up and pottering

Stilla ‘Willow’ shed, as before, painted in Dulux ‘Weathershield’ semi gloss exterior paint in Tea House and Vivid White, and (deck) Cabot’s Timbercolour deck and exterior paint in White. (On wall) Devil’s ivy plants in Respect ‘Green Earth’ 31cm hanging planters, $19.98 each, in Grey, I/N: 0116131, and Charcoal, I/N: 3000266, on Carinya ‘Manhattan’ 200mm x 250mm x 25m x 6mm heavy duty angle brackets in Black, $5 each, I/N: 3961579. (On deck) Croc Grip spray on antislip coating in Clear, as before. Angelonia Archangel Dark Rose, Cuphea Mauve Compacta and Alstromeria Magic White plants in Respect ‘Green Earth’ 51cm low bowl planters in Grey, $62.98 each, I/N: 0086748. Angelonia Serena mix and white petunia plants. (On lawn) Northcote Pottery ‘Cottaseal’ 47cm x 57cm terracotta birdbath, $45.98, I/N: 2800745, painted in Dulux ‘Weathershield’ semi gloss exterior paint in Tea House. Mimosa ‘Solaris’ 200cm x 40cm aluminium slat bench in White, $229, I/N: 0260499. Mojo striped cushion covers in Black, 45cm, $6, I/N: 0149110, and 60cm, $9, I/N: 0149101, and cushion inserts, 45cm, $9.98, I/N: 3192728, and 60cm, $16.98, I/N: 3192734. Tuscan Path 300mm x 300mm granite stepping stones in Grey, $9.98 each, I/N: 3452458. Angelonia Serena mix and Dianthus Jolt Cherry plants in Gorilla Carts 115L poly dump cart, $139, I/N: 0129998.

(On interior wall) Pope ‘Legacy’ 12mm x 15m garden hose, $42.23, I/N: 0055502, on Haxbury ‘Midnight’ hose hanger in Black, $17.89, I/N: 3111055. Asplenium antiquum Victoria fern plant in Scheurich ‘Vander’ 24cm x 22cm pot in White, $33.98, I/N: 2891240. Pinnacle 1500mm x 810mm x 310mm 4 shelf unit, $39, I/N: 2760442. (On shelf, from top, left to right) Holman 9L galvanised watering can, $17.39, I/N: 3120984. Urban Wild 140mm glass bottle terrarium with hole and cork, $42.81, I/N: 0209586. Homalomena Emerald Gem plant in Elho 19.5cm round recycled plastic pot in White, $22.48, I/N: 0266778. Spider plant in Respect ‘Repot’ 25cm self watering planter in White, $20.98, I/N: 0086723. Triple plant propagation station, $19.98, I/N: 0269227. Silver Lady fern plant in Elho 19.5cm round recycled plastic pot in Grey, $22.48, I/N: 0266780. Peperomia plant in Respect ‘Repot’ 16cm self watering planter in Olive, $9.98, I/N: 0086718.

Scotts ‘Osmocote’ native controlled release fertiliser, $14.63/1kg, I/N: 2961303. Garden Basics ‘Lawn Repair’ lawn seed and fertiliser, $6.98/1kg, I/N: 0274296.

All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own.

16 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Plant palace

LEFT Northcote Pottery hanging basket, as before, on Carinya ‘Manhattan’ angle bracket, as before. Ultimate Storage hardwood workbench with pegboard in Matt Black, as before.

(On bench) Holman 9L galvanised watering can, as before. Prayer plant in Elho 29.5cm round recycled plastic pot in Leaf Green, $43.98, I/N: 0266789. Respect ‘Repot’ 16cm white self watering planters, $9.98 each, in White, I/N: 0086716 and Olive, as before. Garden Starters Buttercrunch lettuce seeds, $0.99, I/N: 0327799.

Mechanix Wear ‘Landscape’ slim-fit leather rigger gloves, $24.90/medium, I/N: 0270074.

(On pegboard) Pinnacle single prong pegboard hooks in Gloss Black, $16/pack of 20 small, I/N: 0135521. Fiskars large aluminium bypass pruner, $38.80, I/N: 3350304. Cyclone stainless steel potting scoop, $12.98, I/N: 0242127, weeder, $10.50, I/N: 3360999, and fork hand tool, $10.50, I/N: 3360486. Pinnacle 31mm magnetic clips in Black, $10.98/pack of 6, I/N: 0147736, and ‘Versatile’ pegboard tray, $13, I/N: 2760309. Mr Fothergill’s ‘Mammoth Melting’ climbing snow pea vegetable seeds, $4.75, I/N: 2961407. All plants sold separately.

All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Paint colours may vary on application.

If the garden is your happy place, you deserve a dedicated potting shed. Create a tidy, serene space with workbenches for pottering and propagating, plus storage with myriad shelves, pegboards, hooks, tubs and bins.

RIGHT Lytworx burlap cord connectable low voltage filament party lights in Warm White, $40/pack of 10 bulbs, I/N: 0139561. (On wall) Cyclone stainless steel garden fork, $65, I/N: 3360940, square mouth short handle shifting shovel, $68, I/N: 3369857, and short handle garden spade, $69, I/N: 3369718, on Pfeiffer 100mm square storage hooks in Black, $3.90 each, I/N: 3961630. 44cm plastic leaf rake, $4.25, I/N: 3350684, on Pinnacle heavy duty pegboard tool clip in Gloss Black, $13/pack of 4 large, I/N: 0135519. Northcote Pottery 32cm self-watering hanging basket in White Terrazzo, $17, I/N: 0187594, on Carinya ‘Manhattan’ angle bracket, as before. HanWood ‘Home’ laminate flooring boards in Mink Oak, as before. (On floor) 114cm x 45cm plain PVC backed outdoor coir mat in Natural, $14.50, I/N: 0198059.

Yardking ‘Cut & Catch’ 16” 127cc lawnmower, $299, I/N: 0217934. Ultimate Storage 1850mm x 1500mm 750mm hardwood workbenches with pegboard in Matt Black, $645 each, I/N: 0148204. Marquee ‘Industrial’ acacia bar stool in Black, $29.90, I/N: 0208295.

Willow 60L dome bins (base only) in Black, $12.35 each, I/N: 0182871, and lids, $5.25 each, I/N: 0182872.

FAR RIGHT Urban Wild 140mm glass bottle terrarium, as before. Triple plant propagation station, as before.

All plants sold separately.

Using the wall for tool storage keeps the floor free of clutter

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 17

LEFT Party lights, workbenches, bin and bar stool, see previous pages. Four shelf unit, see page 16. (On pegboard, from top, left to right) Pinnacle ‘Versatile’ pegboard tray, as before. Spider plant in Lotus Collection 14cm x 12cm plain ceramic egg pot in Cream, $7.98, I/N: 0258686. Crescent Lufkin ‘Longreach’ 32m x 8mm tape measure, $28.95, I/N: 0278364. Pinnacle single prong pegboard hooks, as before. Cyclone stainless steel hand tools, $10.50 each: bulb trowels, I/N: 3361000; 5 in 1 multi tool, I/N: 0131505; fan rake, I/N: 0242124; and (on bench) potting scoop, as before. Garden Starters seeds, $0.99 each: nasturtium, I/N: 0327794; mixed colours snapdragon, I/N: 0327796; and Buttercrunch lettuce, as before. Silver Lady fern and spider plants in Respect ‘Repot’ 16cm self watering planters, as before. Asplenium fern plant on Pinnacle ‘Versatile’ tray, as before.

Garden Basics ‘NPK’ all purpose fertiliser, $1.98/500g, I/N: 0274289.

(On bench, from left) Mr Fothergill’s ‘Mammoth Melting’ climbing snow pea vegetable seeds, as before, on Pinnacle ‘Versatile’ tray, as before.

Garden Basics ‘Lawn Repair’ lawn seed and fertiliser, as before. Bird’s nest fern plant in Respect ‘Repot’ 16cm self watering planter, as before.

White petunia plant. Succulent plant in Elho ‘Brussels’ 23cm bowl pot in White, $19.98, I/N: 0086557. Mechanix Wear ‘Landscape’ slim-fit leather rigger gloves, as before. Duffi fern plant in Lotus Collection 14cm x 12cm small plain ceramic egg pot in White, $7.98, I/N: 0258672.

(On floor) Alstromeria Magic White plants. Angelonia Archangel Dark Rose, Cuphea Mauve Compacta and 180mm Alstromeria Magic White plants in Respect ‘Green Earth’ 51cm low bowl planter, as before.

Angelonia Serena mixed plants in 505mm x 335mm x 220mm 32L collapsible crate in Grey, $7, I/N: 0207978. All plants sold separately.

All other products, stylist’s own.

For products on right wall and shelf, see page 16. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

18 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Advertising promotion

Top shelf

Organise your garage or workshop your way with Rack It modular heavy-duty shelving systems Get your garage in order with Rack It shelving, drawer and tool storage systems

W

hether you’re a DIY enthusiast, tradie, cyclist, surfer, green thumb, fitness fanatic or just an organisational gun, a well-planned storage system can be your best friend. As your hobby, project or family grows, investing in a custom set-up makes sense, as it can evolve to suit your lifestyle. And it’s not just about aesthetics – clutter can turn even a big space into an unsafe obstacle course.

DESIGN FOR LIFE Rack It modular storage solutions mean you can have everything you need and nothing you don’t, minimising cost and maximising space efficiency. Its versatile kits offer a great starting point while the modular component system provides a host of shelf styles and sizes, and accessory options, from hooks to pegboards. As your needs change you can add, remove or reconfigure your system to suit.

HEAVY WEIGHTS

Get started with the Rack It Planner. rack-it.com.au

The Rack It 400KG range is perfect for tighter spaces; shelf depths are 430mm or 530mm and each shelf can hold up to 400kg evenly distributed. Complete the set-up with a Rack It WALL wall-mounted foldable workbench and an elevated shelf system. The Rack It 1000KG range has extra-deep shelves (600mm) for those with more to store, and can be upgraded with the Rack It PRO range of lockable drawers and cabinetry, for securing valuable and dangerous tools. Rack It PRO can also be used standalone.

TOUGH LOVE

1 Rack It PRO 900mm x 910mm x 600mm 2 door cabinet, $295, I/N: 0027426. 2 Rack It 1000kg 1938mm x 1830mm x 645mm 3 shelf starter kit, $270, I/N: 2760599. 3 Rack It 1000kg 1938mm x 2135mm x 645mm 3 wire shelf starter kit, $299, I/N: 0176969. 4 Rack It 400KG 2400mm wide workbench combo.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

You can rest assured that Rack It’s powder-coated steel elements have been engineered and tested for years of use. What’s more, designing your ideal set-up is really straightforward with the step-by-step Rack It Planner.

All you need to do is measure your space, customise your system and create your Bunnings order list.

Say it with us: you will fit your car in the garage!

With a Kreg pocket-hole jig, you can create personalised better-than-bought pieces that are built to last

Made for keeps Dreamed of DIYing your own tables, bookshelves, outdoor furniture and more?

Now you can, thanks to Kreg!

A

graceful dining table, marked with decades of meals and memories, a bookcase passed down to the next generation – these are more than just functional items of furniture. They’re heirloom pieces, made with love and built to last. With a little help from Kreg, even a novice can master these joinery projects, and create a new furniture legacy.

ROCK SOLID The difference between a rickety construction and a solid piece that will go the distance is in the joins. A butt joint is the first join every beginner DIYer will master – it’s easy and does the job – but a pocket-hole is next level, coming at timber on an angle (so it doesn’t split) and giving you a discreet and professional finish that’s Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

When using a drill, always wear ear and eye protection.

made to last. With Kreg, it’s easy, and once it’s in your tool kit you’ll have no trouble repairing, upgrading or creating a raft of furniture, shelving, home decor and more!

self-tapping tip (no need for pilot holes) and a head that’s flat on the underside, so they sit snugly on the ‘shelf’ created by the drill bit.

WHAT IS A POCKET HOLE?

Whether your interest in woodwork has only just begun, or if you are a seasoned pro, a Kreg pocket-hole system will very likely become an essential tool in your workshop. Use pocket joins to connect boards into one large panel for a tabletop, join mitred edges to create a professional-grade frame for art or photos, or create beautifully solid boxes to form the base of kitchen cabinets, bookcases, entertainment units and more. The only limit is your imagination, and your best construction companion is Kreg.

A pocket hole is a hole drilled at an angle that forms a pocket for a screw, allowing pieces to connect seamlessly and creating a superior strength join.

Shaping them alone can be tricky, but with the Kreg pocket-hole system, making professional quality joins is magically made easier. First, clamp the pocket hole jig onto the piece of wood.

Once in place, the jig allows you to drill a hole at exactly the right angle to firmly join the two pieces. Then drive in one of Kreg’s uniquely engineered pocket screws, which have a

A DIYER’S DREAM

Advertising promotion

Wood pocket-hole screw kit, $59.90, I/N: 0202876

320 pockethole jig, $76.90, I/N: 0202875 K4 jig pocket-hole system, $180, I/N: 0202864

DIY PROJECTS MADE EASY WITH KREG: n Desks n Chairs and tables n Bookshelves n Storage chests n Decks n Planters and garden beds n Garage organisation n Barn doors For more great woodworking projects and tools visit kregtool.com.au

With Kreg it’s as simple as Drill. Drive. Done!

32mm Coarse/ MaxiLoc head pocket-hole screws, $9.90/ pack of 100, I/N: 0202879

310 pocket-hole jig, $38.90, I/N: 0202873

25mm Coarse/MaxiLoc head pocket-hole screws, $8.90/pack of 100, I/N: 0202877

Incredible rigidity and workpiece holding strength

Perfectly placed pocket holes at the exact angle required

Incredibly strong joints can be crafted in moments

Pet i t e n o i t c e f r e p

OUTDOOR REVAMP

Before

A SMALL BUT SUNNY BALCONY GETS A CHIC STYLING MAKEOVER TO CREATE AN INVITING ENTERTAINING AREA FOR A FRIEND OR TWO Photography BRIGID ARNOTT Styling SAM POINTON

Styling assistant Katie Turner.

DREAM IT

These stylish Lattice Makers screens are made from ethically sourced coconut hardwood and add interest to a plain brick wall 22 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

E

ven the most compact outdoor area can comfortably host a small get-together, as homeowner Lorna discovered when she revamped the balcony of her inner-city apartment. A modest bistro setting, which can be folded up and stored when not in use, is just large enough to throw a barbie for a friend or two, while timber screens, flowering perennials and evergreen trees in white pots boost the pretty factor.

Marquee 3 piece timber folding bistro setting, $99, I/N: 0110564 (chairs shown below). Glass, Adairs, adairs.com.au. Cutlery, Kmart, kmart.com.au. All other products, stylist’s own

“The all-black outdoor furniture from my previous, larger terrace felt rather grim here, so I love this lighter, more ‘boho’ look” Lorna, homeowner

MAKE IT

BELOW Barbecue, for similar try Jumbuck single burner portable barbecue, $159, I/N: 0173342.

Jumbuck 2 piece barbecue tool set, $12.98, I/N: 0281493 (spatula not shown). Matador ‘Premium’ stainless steel skewers, $11.90/ pack of 6, I/N: 3170665.

SEE PAGE 26 FOR OUR YUMMY BARBECUE RECIPES – EASY TO EAT ON YOUR LAP! There’s just enough room for a compact single-burner barbecue and handy trolley

RIGHT AND OPPOSITE Lytworx glass festoon indoor/outdoor low voltage LED party lights in Warm White, $56.82/8 bulbs, I/N: 0201014. Lattice Makers ‘Herringbone’ 1800mm x 900mm hardwood screen panels, $97.50 each, I/N: 0149607. Jumbuck portable gas barbecue trolley, $99, I/N: 0175300.

Jumbuck 2 piece barbecue tool set, as before. Magnolia trees in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 44cm x 44cm fibreglass egg pots in White, $87.98 each, I/N: 0252489.

Sutera plants in Elho ‘Vibes’ 16cm round recycled plastic indoor pot in White, $16.98, I/N: 0265627, and Northcote Pottery ‘Benji’ 15cm indoor pot in Bamboo, $5.48, I/N: 0263715. Marquee 3 piece timber folding bistro setting, as before.

Mojo 45cm cushion cover in Mist Green, $3, I/N: 0217887, and 45cm cushion insert, $9.98, I/N: 3192728. Glasses, as before. All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Make sure to bring indoor pots inside during bad weather. Ensure any lighting used outside is suitable for outdoors.  bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 23

A large market umbrella provides shade from the summer sun for both people and plants, but must be closed and secured during windy conditions

Before

MAKE IT

SEE OPPOSITE PAGE FOR HOW TO DIY THIS ELEGANT TRAVERTINE TABLE

Planters on balcony ledges must be secured to ensure they can’t be dislodged

You don’t even need a drill for this super-simple project, which could serve as a low side table or plant stand

ABOVE Petunia, sutera, diascia, native violet, lobelia and geranium plants.

OPPOSITE Mimosa ‘Woolamai’ round market umbrella in Beige, $139, I/N: 3192696, on slimline market umbrella accessory base in Charcoal, $54.90, I/N: 0124009. Blueberry ash tree. Tuckeroo tree in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 44cm x 44cm fibreglass egg pot in White, $87.98, I/N: 0252489.

Thyme plant. Strelitzia plant in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 37cm x 37cm fibreglass egg pot in White, $65.98, I/N: 0252488. Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ plant in Northcote Pottery Precinct Lite ‘Omni’ large bowl in White, $49.98, I/N: 2832582.

(On ledge) Lobelia, diascia, sutera and petunia plants. Table, see right for DIY instructions. Throw, Adairs. All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own.

Tools & materials nS afety equipment (mask, eye protection, disposable gloves n Drop sheet n Enamel spray paint n Four 700mm steel hairpin table legs n Stone paver n Large paintbrush n Painter’s tape n Construction adhesive

Paint colours may vary on application.

ABOVE Table made using 610mm x 406mm x 30mm travertine natural stone paver, $19.07, I/N: 0131434 (stock may be limited in some stores until late January). Taskmaster 700mm x 10mm steel hairpin table legs, $21 each, I/N: 0038471, Dulux ‘Duramax’ spray paint in Flat Vivid White, $13.90/340g, I/N: 1400715, and Selleys ‘Hold Up’ construction adhesive, $14.99/290g, I/N: 0130875.

Glasses and vase, Adairs. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

LEFT Look for outdoor furniture with UV-protected and stain-resistant upholstery, but bring cushions inside if the weather turns rainy

1 Wearing safety equipment and working in a well-ventilated area on a drop sheet, apply two coats of spray paint to the table legs, allowing to dry after each coat.

2 Brush the paver with a clean, dry paintbrush to remove dust, then place it on the ground with the roughest surface facing up (this will be the underside of the finished table). Position the legs in place and mark with tape.

3 Apply adhesive to the mounting plate of each leg and press down into position. Allow to cure for at least 48 hours before removing the tape and placing the table upright.

Make sure the legs are securely anchored. Safety tip: This table is decorative only and will not support excessive weight.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 25

DREAM IT

FOOD TIP

SUMMER RECIPES

FIND A RANGE OF BARBECUE RUBS IN STORE OR IN SUPERMARKETS, TO IMPART EXTRA DEPTH OF FLAVOUR TO GRILLED MEATS

Smoky lamb and peach kebabs

BARBECUE BUFFET

COOK UP A SIMPLE ENTERTAINER’S MENU OF TASTY TREATS FEATURING LAMB, BEEF AND SEASONAL FRUITS Recipes KERRIE WORNER Photography BRIGID ARNOTT Styling SAM POINTON

Smoky lamb and peach kebabs MAKES 8

n 1 kg lamb leg, trimmed, cut into 3cm pieces n 2 tbsp olive oil n 2 garlic cloves, crushed n 2 tbsp Texas-style smoky barbecue rub (see Food Tip) n 1 lime, zest finely grated, plus extra lime wedges to serve n 3 yellow peaches n 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed n ½ cup Greek yoghurt n ½ cup sour cream n 2 tsp chipotle sauce 1 Combine lamb, 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, rub and zest in a large bowl. Cut one peach into 26 bunnings.com.au |

quarters, squeeze over bowl until pureed, combine through lamb, then discard skins.

Thread lamb onto 8 skewers.

2 Preheat barbecue to a medium heat. Cut remaining peaches into thick wedges.

Drizzle wedges and asparagus with remaining oil. Add the wedges and asparagus to barbecue and cook for 2 minutes each side until charred. Remove and set aside.

3 Add lamb skewers to barbecue. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning over, or until cooked through.

4 Whisk yoghurt and sour cream in a bowl with a fork until smooth. Add chipotle sauce and swirl through.

bunnings |

bunnings

5 Serve lamb kebabs with peaches, asparagus, yoghurt sauce and lime wedges.

Beef sliders with pickled onions MAKES 10

n 1 0 brioche slider buns, split (see tip) n Olive oil, for greasing n 3 slices tasty cheese, quartered n Garlic aioli, to serve n 5 oakleaf lettuce leaves, washed, torn to fit buns n Burger relish, to serve n ½ cup bread and butter cucumbers, drained (see Tip, right)

PICKLED ONIONS n 2 tbsp caster sugar n ¼ cup boiling water n ¼ cup white wine vinegar n 2 small red onions, peeled, cut into very thin rings BEEF PATTIES n 500g beef mince n 1 egg n 1/3 cup dry breadcrumbs n 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce n 2 tbsp tomato sauce n 1 ½ tsp onion salt n 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 To make the pickled onions, dissolve sugar in boiling water in a bowl. Add vinegar and onion and stir to combine.

Allow to stand for 1 hour.

Fennel, radish and almond slaw

Watermelon, cucumber and feta salad

Beef sliders with pickled onions

2 To make beef patties, combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Divide into 10 portions (about ¼ cup each) and shape into patties the same size as brioche buns.

3 Heat a barbecue to a medium-low heat. Split buns in half and grill, cut side down, on barbecue for 30 seconds or until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

4 Grease patties with olive oil. Cook on grill plate for 6-7 minutes each side or until cooked through. Place a quarter piece of cheese on top of each patty. Cover barbecue with lid until cheese is just melted.

5 Spread 2 teaspoons of aioli on each burger base and top with a piece of lettuce and burger patty. Top with burger relish, a bread and butter cucumber and drained pickled onions. Top with brioche top and skewer to secure. Serve.

Tip: Brioche slider buns are

available in major supermarkets.

Bread and butter cucumbers are sweet pickled slices of cucumber, also in supermarkets.

Fennel, radish and almond slaw SERVES 6

n2 baby fennel bulbs n 400g piece white cabbage, trimmed n 5 small radishes n 1 bunch chives, thinly sliced n ½ cup chopped parsley n ½ cup grated parmesan n ½ cup chopped roasted almonds DRESSING 1/3 cup whole egg mayonnaise 2 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tbsp lemon juice Salt and pepper 1 Trim base and top of fennel, reserving green fronds. Chop fronds roughly and set aside.

Thinly slice cabbage, fennel and radish on a mandolin or cut into very thin slices. Place cabbage, fennel and radish in a bowl of iced water. Soak for 20 minutes.

2 To make dressing, whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl.

3 Drain vegetables well, shaking off excess water.

Place in a large bowl. Add fennel fronds, chives, parsley and parmesan and toss until combined.

4 Add dressing and almonds and toss through. Serve.

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE Matador ‘Premium’ stainless steel skewers, $11.90/pack of 6, I/N: 3170665.

Tablecloths, Adairs, adairs.com.au.

Cutlery, Kmart, kmart.com.au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Scan the QR code

Add fabulous flavour to your next BBQ feast: bunnings.com.au/how-tosmoke-pulled-pork

Watermelon, cucumber and feta salad SERVES 4

n 1 .4kg wedge seedless watermelon n 1 medium Lebanese cucumber, thinly sliced n ¼ cup mint leaves, thinly sliced n 100g Greek feta cheese n 1/4 cup small basil leaves n 1 tbsp red wine vinegar n 1 tbsp olive oil 1 Cut watermelon into 2cm cubes and place in a large bowl. Add cucumber and mint and stir gently to combine.

Watch it 2 Crumble feta over the top, add most of the basil leaves, reserving some for the top, and mix through.

3 Spread in a shallow serving bowl. Sprinkle with reserved basil leaves. Drizzle with vinegar and oil, and serve.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 27

THE GREAT ONES GO LOW AND SLOW

Catalyst Pro Smoker with Wheels I/N: 0178178

429

$

When it comes to low and slow cooking, the great ones go above and beyond. Discover all the signs of a great barbecue and check out the Matador smoker range at matadorbbqs.com.au

Advertising promotion

Turn up the heat

Enjoy some holiday entertaining in great company and with a delicious, barbecued feast Matador ‘Radiant Revolve’ spit rotisserie*, $199, I/N: 0256913

GARLIC & HERB LAMB SPIT ROAST

Matador marinade spray bottle with funnel, $24.95, I/N: 0276139 Matador pit master gloves, $14.95, I/N: 0276142

O

n the non-stop calendar of frolics that makes up our summer season, it’s always great to entertain friends and family.

Why not take the usual barbie to the next level with a succulent spit roast?

*Available to order online or from the Special Orders Desk.

HIGH ROTATION There’s nothing wrong with a grilled prawn or a clutch of snags, but for a showstopper feast, a meltingly tender hunk of meat, slow-cooked over a Matador spit rotisserie, will make your backyard barbie an event to remember. With a 20kg motor capacity and a stylish and durable porcelain enamel firebox, Matador’s spit rotisserie is designed to feed a crowd – and look good doing it! Use it to cook a whole crispy-skinned chicken, a juicy beef rib roast, or a luscious leg of lamb.

Once you’re done, all the components tuck neatly into the firebox, so you can tidy it away for another day.

HELPING HANDS Complete your cooking kit with a few essential accessories to get the best possible results. A gorgeous marinade enhances the flavour of any cut, and with a Matador marinade spray bottle, you can get that tasty liquid onto the meat with one hand and no fuss.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Matador ‘Flip Tip’ weatherproof thermometer, $24.95, I/N: 0281534

When you’re working with a crowd-feeding hunk of meat, the hardest part is knowing when it’s done, which is where the Matador ‘Flip Tip’ thermometer comes in; this probe thermometer can be programmed with target settings, while the backlit LCD screen changes colour (blue for underdone, green for done), so you’ll always know when it’s perfectly ready.

Before you top up the fuel or move your meal from spit roast to plate, don’t forget to pull on your Matador ‘Pit Master’ gloves, which will protect your hands and arms from burns, while still allowing full dexterity.

Serves 6 Prep 10 mins (+ 1 hour marinating & 10 mins resting time). Cook 2 hours

1.8kg boneless lamb leg 4 garlic cloves, quartered 2 rosemary sprigs, cut in 2cm pieces 1 tbsp chopped oregano 1 tbsp rosemary leaves, extra 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 lemon, zested, juiced Roasted potatoes, to serve Oregano leaves, to serve Rosemary leaves, extra, to serve 1 Use a small sharp knife to make 12 small slits on the surface of the lamb. Insert 1 piece garlic and 1 piece rosemary into each slit. Place the lamb in a shallow glass dish.

Combine the chopped oregano, rosemary leaves, oil, lemon zest and lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over the lamb in the dish. Place in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight to develop the flavours.

2 Heat the spit roast with charcoal, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Thread the lamb onto the spit and place over the charcoal. Reserve any marinade.

Cook, turning with the rotisserie and brushing occasionally with reserved marinade, for 2 hours or until a meat thermometer inserted into the centre of the lamb registers 65°C. 3 Carefully remove from the spit and place on a baking tray. Loosely cover the lamb with foil and set aside for 10 mins to rest.

4 Arrange lamb and potatoes on a serving platter. Sprinkle with oregano leaves and extra rosemary.

PLAN IT

GARDEN TRANSFORMATION

P

aula’s north-facing block, outside of Brisbane, was completely bare when she and her husband, Paul, built their house and brought in heavy machinery to churn up the hard, rocky clay soil. Today, from sweeps of lawn bordered by hedges and vegie gardens, to free-flowing beds stocked with native plants, there’s something to enjoy in every area.

“We’ve learnt through trial and error what works and what doesn’t, and I’m always looking to try something new in the garden,” says Paula.

Take inspiration from the couple’s great garden-planning ideas.

Cha llengae cce pted!

A ONCE-BARE BLOCK WITH TRICKY SOIL AND LOW RAINFALL IS NOW A GORGEOUS, PLANTFILLED GARDEN WITH INTEREST AT EVERY TURN Words and styling KYLIE JACKES Photography JOHN DOWNS

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 31

Tough love

Improving the soil was the first priority. While locals joke that gardening in the area is done with a “jackhammer and crowbar” because the clay soil is so rocky and compact, Paula used gypsum, organic matter and mulch to improve soil structure and drainage. To cope with the low rainfall, many beds are layered with drought-tolerant varieties, including grevilleas, saltbush, native grasses, westringia and eremophilas. The family’s border collie, Pip, was also a consideration – hardwearing buffalo grass was a great option for the lawn alongside the house.

Find the features Draw attention to special plantings.

This trio of Whites Oxyshield landscape rings showcases feature plants, such as a tall euphorbia and a Japanese maple, underplanted with ‘No Mow’ grass (Zoysia tenuifolia). A screen painted dark grey is a frame for star jasmine; for a similar colour try Dulux Namadji.

Centre point

Eye-catching elements give a garden focus and personality. “Create interest with a large decorative pot or sculpture,” suggests Paula. “A birdbath and feeder can also form a destination and enliven a corner.” Here, a tree stump is topped with a sculpture made from old machinery and wire by Queensland artist Robyn Dower.

32 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Pots are priceless

Gabion walls help frame and define a series of outdoor rooms

For visual impact from afar, use large pots. “I always like to group an odd number, and mix old and new pots with different textures or shapes,” says Paula. “Highly decorative pots work well with plain background plants like lilly pillies and murraya (mock orange), whereas simple pots allow stunning foliage to be the star.”

“It’s important to make smaller, intimate spaces in a large garden, almost rooms where you feel snug and enclosed” Paula, homeowner

Rows of lilly pillies provide privacy, while sandstone from a nearby quarry was used for retaining walls

Create breakout spaces

Pick a perch

Seating spots invite you to spend time in a garden. This sturdy timber bench is a great place to survey the landscape and enjoy the fire pit on cool evenings. Brighton Masonry concrete pavers define the zone, with the fire pit set among landscaping rocks for a natural look. Planters feature lowmaintenance, hardy kalanchoe varieties.

This square planter box adds height and layers of greenery to an area of hardscaping. To make the shadow-line effect, the box was built out of treated timber painted dark grey, then clad in decking timber spaced 20mm apart and painted in Dulux Surfmist. The stylish raised bed includes gymea lilies, Kalanchoe ‘Silver Spoons’ and Carex ‘Feather Falls’. bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 33

Edible stars

A clever way to contain vegies and create a stylish feature is to grow them in planters. Here, more landscape rings are used to add height and interest in the vegie patch, and are easy to replant with new varieties at the end of a growing season. To help retain moisture, top with pea straw mulch.

SHOP

1

2

3 5

4

1 Marquee 1180mm x 790mm x 565mm timber outdoor bench, $105, I/N: 0259938. 2 Whites 65cm x 30cm x 15cm landscaper’s plant support garden gabion, $34.99, I/N: 0054573. 3 Tuscan Path 600mm x 400mm x 20mm porcelain paver in Taupe, $17.28, I/N: 0129325.

4 Whites ‘Oxyshield’ 900mm podium landscape ring, $109, I/N: 3321632. 5 Mimosa ‘Somerset’ folding timber chair, $69.98, I/N: 3190111. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Scan the QR code

ABOVE The homeowners worked around the block’s undulating slope by adding a hardwood deck platform with a cut-out to accommodate a melaleuca tree. A pair of Mimosa ‘Somerset’ folding timber chairs are positioned to take advantage of the dappled shade and garden vista 34 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Learn how to garden in poor soil: bunnings. com.au/how-toimprove-soilorganically

Read it!

Advertising promotion

Mow smarter Meet the lawnmower you’ll fall in love with

The GARDENA SILENO Minimo robotic mower keeps the lawn in check and ticks a huge task off your to-do list

I

t’s time to get smart when it comes to keeping your lawn neat and tidy. With the GARDENA SILENO Minimo Robotic Lawnmower, you can take back your weekends without neglecting the yard.

SERIOUSLY SMART Bluetooth technology has finally reached the backyard. With the help of the GARDENA Bluetooth® app and your smartphone or tablet, you can now mow the lawn with a few taps of your finger, using the Bluetooth® automated SILENO Minimo Robotic Lawnmower. Set-up is straightforward, and once you’re connected you can sit back and enjoy a healthy, good-looking lawn.

MAKING SENSE The machine’s SensorControl function automatically adjusts the required mowing time, based on grass growth, while its highly responsive collision sensors make sure the mower operates safely with no accidents or damage to your garden. When the mower is lifted, another set of sensors makes the blades stop immediately to prevent injury. When it needs charging, it automatically returns to its charging station.

RAIN OR SHINE

GARDENA ‘SILENO City 250’ robotic lawnmower, $1,299, I/N: 0104707.

Wet weather is no longer an excuse for an overgrown lawn – the SILENO Minimo Robotic Lawnmower will get to work whatever the weather. If the ground is frozen or too frosty, the robot will detect the conditions and pause its program until it’s thawed, for the health of your lawn. A boundary wire determines the mowing area, ensuring the lawnmower only works through the areas you’ve specified, up to 250 square metres.

WORKING HARD Tackling slopes of up to 25 per cent, the SILENO Minimo Robotic Lawnmower can handle most situations. The CorridorCut and SpotCutting features let it take on the narrowest lawns, tight corners and even places such as under trampolines or garden furniture, delivering an even cut every time. The best part? The robotic lawnmower cuts quietly, so you can truly relax while it works away.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Although the mower has a number of built-in safety features, it is still advised not to use the product when persons, especially children, or animals are in the work area. Keep your hands and feet away from the rotating blades. Never put your hands or feet close to or under the product when it is switched on.

PLAN IT

RELOCATING

SMOOTH MOVES WHEN MOVING TO A NEW HOME, PREPARATION IS KEY. FOLLOW THESE 20 TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SHIFT Words CAROLINE BOTTING

A

little forward planning can take the pressure off the challenges of a relocation. Here’s how to lessen the stress.

1 Lay the groundwork

Draw up a timeline broken into weeks, then days, before the move, suggests Jessica Haslem of Wrap & Move. Think about who you need to book, such as removalists or rental trucks, and tasks like changing address and insurance details and notifying service providers.

2 Don’t tackle it alone

“Delegate tasks to each family member or moving support person so everyone knows what their duty is,” says Jessica. This could range from calling the electricity company or picking up the hire truck to minding the dog on moving day.

3 Ditch the surplus

Don’t waste this opportunity to declutter, advises The Art of Decluttering’s Amy Revell (theartof decluttering.com.au). “You’ll save on moving costs, and packing and unpacking will be quicker,” she says.

4 Kit up for packing

Stock up on packing tape and dispensers, permanent markers, labels, bulldog clips for cords, and a retractable knife. Invest in plenty of protective wrap – foam, bubble, or tissue or butcher’s paper.

5 Collect boxes

bunnings |

6 Work methodically

Start packing as soon as possible.

Begin in rooms and areas used less frequently, says Jessica, like the spare bedroom, garage or shed.

7 Protect fragiles

Pack delicate items in smaller, sturdier boxes that can be sealed and carried easily without the risk of bulkier items breaking them. Place soft materials around items to stop them moving and fill hollow items with paper or foam.

“When it comes to moving, failing to plan is planning to fail” Jessica Haslem, Wrap & Move

8 Keep like with like

“Packing boxes with one category only (tableware, for example) makes unpacking much easier,” says Amy. “Label boxes clearly on all sides and state what’s inside. And write which room you’d like the box to go in when you’re unloading at the new house.”

9 Electric efficiency

Gather cardboard boxes of all shapes and sizes. Have plastic boxes on hand, 36 bunnings.com.au |

too. Clear, strong, easy to stack and to open and close, they’re great for items needed immediately such as TV cords, the toaster and favourite toys!

Before dealing with the TV, stereo and computer, take photos of where each cord is plugged in. If possible leave these connected, or keep them together with a labelled bulldog clip.

bunnings

Put screws and small parts into clear ziplock bags and tape these to the appliance (if safe to do so), suggests Jessica. “Then everything should be together to make re-setting up easy!”

10 Rug up

Avoid damage to furniture or the house itself with moving blankets.

“Cover the top and bottom of your items and secure them with tape or strapping to protect your furniture from dust, dirt, and from rubbing against other items,” says Jessica.

For extra cushioning on furniture legs, use corner protectors or foam wraps.

11 Avoid injury

Moving trolleys will help ease furniture in and out. “They provide a safe alternative to dragging or pushing heavy items and help to protect you from injury,” says Jessica. In boxes, mix up heavy items with lighter things like pillows and linen. It’s also a good idea to keep a medical kit on hand.

Wrap & Move 300mm protective foam wrap, $11/25m, I/N: 0176977

Moving can make pets anxious, so enlist family or friends to take care of them. And make sure you don’t pack the cat!

16 Fridge and freezer

Unplug these appliances 24 hours before the move so they can thaw and refrigerant fluids can settle.

Secure doors and drawers. Avoid tipping more than 45 degrees (to stop refrigerant seeping where it shouldn’t) and check your manual for how long to leave them to settle before turning them back on.

17 Key considerations

Keys need a special spot so they’re not mistakenly tucked away. Invest in tag organisers, which are fantastic for labelling which keys go where.

18 The final polish When packing a removal truck, fit smaller items around larger ones, but make sure to secure them

Photography Getty Images. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

12 Stack as you go

14 Organise the cleaning

To reduce chaos, create a space to put boxes you’ve finished with. “This is easier for moving day, but also helps you see what still needs to be packed up as you go,” explains Amy.

Cleaning while packing will save a lot of time and energy later. Wipe empty cupboards and window trims early, dust off the ceiling cobwebs and vacuum behind the sofa and beds.

13 Tackle the oven

15 Deal with the food

Do this time-consuming job early.

Grab gloves, cleaning rags and steel wool pads for getting rid of oven rack grime. A mix of baking soda, vinegar and water can work a treat on surfaces, or pull out the big guns with a specialised oven-cleaning product.

Try to eat what’s left in the pantry, fridge and freezer. For the inevitable leftover items, have a couple of large esky bins at the ready. Make sure spillable pantry items are secured in sealable containers and arrange glass bottles carefully.

Once you’ve packed and moved everything out, the house will need a last clean. Prepare a kit of cleaning equipment: gloves, cleaning rags, detergents, vacuum and mop.

19 Family matters

Organise a babysitter or friends to take the kids, or find a space where they can safely play or relax. Keep small pets safe during the move with a pet carrier.

20 Next-day needs

Make that first day in your new home easier by organising a ‘next day’ box with easily accessible essentials, such as toiletries, medication, chargers, breakfast items like tea and coffee, and a change of clothes. It’s also a good idea to put aside the bedding, towels and PJs for the first night. bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 37

SHOP

1

3

2 4

7

5

8

6

9

11

12

10

15

14 13

16 17

1 Wrap & Move plate packing kit, $11, I/N: 0204119 (carton sold separately). 2 Wrap & Move 110mm x 75mm room labels, $4.99/pack of 60, I/N: 0254405.

3 Ezy Storage ‘IP67’ 100L waterproof storage box, $54.63, I/N: 0219758. 4 Selleys oven cleaner, $4.98/350g, I/N: 4463090. 5 Scotch ‘Tough Grip’ 50m x 48mm clear moving tape, $17.49/pack of 3, I/N: 0117268. 6 Wrap & Move foam corner protectors, $9.90/pack of 4, I/N: 0204123. 7 Taskmaster key tag organiser, $5.60/pack of 8, I/N: 4040502. 8 Wrap & Move 52L heavy duty half tea chest moving carton, $4.60, I/N: 2583461. 9 Wrap & Move 105L moving bag, $3.60, I/N: 2610100. 10 Wrap & Move ‘Fragile’ 48mm tape, $3.49/66m, I/N: 2610096. 11 Esky ‘Chilla’ 10L hard cooler, $19.98, I/N: 3240442. 12 Wrap & Move zip-lock storage bags, $6.99/set of 6, I/N: 0220413. 13 Protector 30 piece personal first aid kit, $11.95, I/N: 6100329. 14 Sharpie chisel tip marker pen in Black, $2.49, I/N: 5660325. 15 Fido & Fletch 1140mm x 580mm canvas play pen pet enclosure, $64.50, I/N: 3440276. 16 Saxon 250kg P-handle hand trolley with pneumatic tyres, $39, I/N: 0085399. 17 Wrap & Move 2m x 1.8m quilted moving blanket, $12.20, I/N: 2610110. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

38 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

A pull-out-and-keep advertising promotion

5

WAYS TO MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE TO THE WAY YOUR HOME LOOKS AND FUNCTIONS – TO WELCOME IN 2022!

NEW YEAR, NEW HOME

Cladding + paint + security + bathrooms + landscaping Brought to you by

Presented by: WOODHOUSE

Façade facelift

A clean profile suits contemporary homes

Make a big change – transform the exterior of your home with three key steps

I

f ever there was a project that could make your whole home look like new, it’s changing up the exterior – and one clever way to do that is to clad it.

Woodhouse Weatherproof timber cladding boards can cover up oldfashioned brick, or tired fibre cement cladding, and turn your ugly duckling into a modern swan. Plus – a dramatic makeover can be affordable and quick!

CHOOSING YOUR LOOK There are several styles of Woodhouse Weatherproof products to choose from, such as classic weatherboard. It’s loved for its timeless, coastal charm.

Chamferboard is another staple of the Australian streetscape, with an angled top edge and flat face which gives it a modern twist. Then there’s the sleek and simple lines of shiplap: a modern choice that’s rich with tactile charm.

Whichever style you choose, it’s important to ensure your cladding

product is durable and weatherproof. Woodhouse Weatherproof products are manufactured from trusted H3 exterior treated, sustainably sourced radiata pine timber, with defect-free finger jointing.

They’re factory pre-primed with Dulux Industrial paint, treated for resistance against termite and fungal attacks and come with an industry leading 25 year product and paint (primer) warranty.

FINER DETAILS Once you’ve selected a cladding profile, you’ll need to turn your attention to the details. These are key to great design, and your home’s exterior is no exception.

The shape and size of your fascia and bargeboards, external trim, balustrading and even handrails all play a role in setting the style New cladding and a change of colour can make a huge impact

scene of your house. For modern and contemporary designs, look to simple shapes and clean lines.

For heritage homes, or for classic Hamptons style, opt for shapely profiles. See the range at woodhouse. com.au. All products are treated and pre-primed, and covered by the 25 year warranty.

THINK PINK Having pre-primed timber, such as the Woodhouse Weatherproof range, saves on painting time. Plus the finger jointed process means that visible defects are removed ensuring a smooth finish. Look for the pink timber in the Trade section of your local Bunnings store.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Crisp White Shale Grey

Presented by: TAUBMANS

Colour me happy

Saxby Blue

With Taubmans exterior paint, you can give your home a fresh face for the new year

F

irst impressions count, so for a fast and highly effective way to make your home memorable, nothing makes a traffic-stopping statement like a new coat of paint. Even just refreshing the existing hue makes an impact, but why not have some fun and transform your home with an inspiring new colour palette?

COLOUR INSPIRATION As a starting point, take a look around the neighbourhood. Similar homes might offer colours that speak to you, but you can also find inspiration anywhere, from a garden gate to a flower in bloom. Capturing a shade you love is easy with the Coloursmith app, which uses your smartphone to create a custom paint colour just for you.

Wall colour is the first decision to tick off the list, but don’t forget the details!

Select a contrasting trim colour for eaves, fretwork, railings, fascia and gutters. Then make a statement with accent colours for the front door, Contrasting wall, trim and accent colours can enhance the architecture of your home’s facade

letterbox or even window frames.

These trim and accent colours will round out your scheme, enhance your home’s assets and bring the look to life.

TEST, TEST, TEST! Be confident in your selection before you pick up a paintbrush. Pair colour chips in store, and look at Taubmans Trends Colour Card to help make the perfect match. Then test them in real life! Taubmans colour specialist Fiona Dawson says, “Whites do have a tendency to bleach out, and people can be disappointed with how a colour looks within an exterior environment.

The best advice is to get a sample pot and put three coats of the colour you are exploring on a 1sqm piece of cardboard, and move it around at different times of day to check how light works in your exterior spaces.”

Other materials, like outdoor flooring, will have an effect, reflecting light, throwing colour or pulling out undertones from your wall paint.

DO IT RIGHT For an exterior that will keep its good looks, your choice of paint is as important as your colour selection. Consider the conditions your new paint job will be exposed to; if your walls will feel the full force of the scorching Aussie sun, go for a paint that’s designed to take the heat. Taubmans All Weather is an exterior paint specifically designed to withstand all weather conditions. It also includes Nanoguard Advanced Technology, which is essentially a protective shield, so dirt can be washed away without damaging the finish. It also has a lifetime guarantee against flaking, peeling and blistering. Taubmans Sunproof Exterior is suitable for surfaces that will be taking the full force of the sun or are required to collect drinking water. It has a 25-year guarantee against flaking, peeling and blistering. Both are self-priming, meaning less time – and less work – before you can enjoy your home’s new makeover.

All Weather 4L Low Sheen White is $79.90 RRP, I/N: 0077932

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Paint colours may vary on application.

Sunproof 4L Low Sheen White is $72.15 RRP, I/N: 1540464

Presented by: GAINSBOROUGH

Smarten up

Combine new tech home security and stylish good looks, with the Gainsborough Freestyle Electronic Trilock

S

ometimes the smallest change can go a long way to improving your home and lifestyle – and upgrading out-of date hardware is one way to give your entrance an instant visual lift, for example. But if you make a choice to merge new technology with good looks, you’ll gift yourself a world of convenience.

Gainsborough smart locks grant you control over who can enter your home, so you’ll never have to look for a key again – and they offer a stylish makeover at the same time!

KEYLESS ENTRY Fitting a Gainsborough Freestyle Electronic Trilock to a new door is straightforward and cost effective, plus it can be retrofitted to most existing doors. Once set up, it enables quick access to your home: to unlock the door, simply punch in a code or use the Gainsborough Freestyle smartphone app (which works on iOS and Android.).

Connecting this app to the Gainsborough Freestyle wi-fi bridge and door sensor kit (sold separately) enables remote access. Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home,

the lock can then be operated from anywhere in the world, while the door sensor means you’ll know via phone alerts if your door is open or closed, locked or unlocked, wherever you are.

SHARE SECURELY A Gainsborough Freestyle Electronic Trilock also lets you securely and easily share access to your home.

Instead of leaving a key with a neighbour or hiding one under a pot plant, access is provided via a code which visitors enter on a keypad. In addition to the code, access can be granted via the Freestyle app, if the other person has this downloaded on their phone.

PEACE OF MIND Unlike locks of old, digital access can’t be copied or lost. This makes granting regular or scheduled access easy (for example, to your cleaner every Friday from 8am-10am). And by using the Freestyle app, anyone’s access can be revoked at any time, without having to change the locks. You can also check if loved ones have returned home safely.

With a Gainsborough smart lock you decide who can access your home

CLEVER CHOICE Winner of the Good Design Awards 2021, Gainsborough Freestyle Trilock’s signature three-in-one function offers passage, privacy and deadlock modes.

There’s also a traditional cylinder, with an emergency key override feature for the ultimate convenience and security.

Gainsborough Freestyle ‘Aurora Trilock’ smart lock, $549, in Matt Black, I/N: 0206285, and Brushed Satin Chrome, I/N: 0206283

Sophisticated and streamlined, smart locks not only look good but offer the latest in lock security

Gainsborough ‘Freestyle’ wi-fi bridge and door sensor kit in White, $108, I/N: 0206281† Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

Presented by: CAROMA Caroma’s Luna Cleanflush® wall faced toilet’s revolutionary design cuts down on cleaning but not on style

paired with a unique large drop zone bowl, a powerful flush and controlled water flow to minimise splashback.

The result is a water-efficient toilet that is easier to clean and stays cleaner for longer, making it the perfect foundation piece for your new bathroom.

STYLE MOMENTS

Bathroom renovation: modern luxury Bring your bathroom into the 21st century with Caroma’s on-trend styles and clever technology EXPRESS YOURSELF

TOP TECH

Not only does investing in a new bathroom give you the chance to configure it exactly the way you want it, adding value to your home and lifestyle, it also lets you indulge in a major style and efficiency upgrade.

The ultimate luxury in any bathroom is technology and design so clever that it cuts back on cleaning. Caroma’s Luna Cleanfush® wall-faced toilet features patented rimless flushing technology (so there’s nowhere for germs to hide)

Caroma’s Luna collection is contemporary and cohesive Satin Black

Investing in top-quality tapware will give your new bathroom design truly luxe status. The key to getting it right is consistency: if you’ve opted for black taps, make sure your towel rail, shower mixer and toilet roll holder are black, too. The timeless Luna collection by Caroma has a multitude of bathroom accessories, available in satin black, on-trend brushed nickel, brushed brass or chrome, so there’s a finish for every taste and style of home.

TAKE SHAPE The shape, size and layout of the bathroom basics (basin, bath, toilet) will have a big impact on your design.

Clean lines and sharp corners are not well suited to heritage homes, while a traditional pedestal vanity may look out of place in a contemporary abode.

For something that suits any aesthetic, look to Caroma for sleek, fuss-free designs with soft curves and a slim profile. If space permits, a freestanding bath – Caroma offers many – should take centre stage, while your toilet – even one as practical, easy to clean and stylish as the Cleanflush® – is best positioned tucked behind a door or partially screened beside a vanity.

Chrome

Brass

Brushed Nickel 1 Caroma ‘Luna Cleanflush®’ WELS 4-star 3.5L/min wall faced toilet suite, $648, I/N: 0088812. 2 Caroma ‘Luna’ WELS 6-star 4.5L/min basin mixer in Brushed Nickel, $209, I/N: 0327287. 3 Caroma ‘Luna’ WELS 6-star 4.5L/min basin mixer in Brushed Brass, $209, I/N: 0334458†. 4 Caroma ‘Luna’ WELS 6-star 4.5L/min basin mixer in Chrome, $229, I/N: 0327082. 5 Caroma ‘Luna’ WELS 6-star 4.5L/min basin mixer in Black, $209, I/N: 0327286.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

Presented by: TUSCAN PATH Weathering steel screens set between brick pillars create a stunning boundary

If you have an outdoor power source, no electrician is required to install the Cascade water feature

INSTANT IMPACT

Alfresco allure

If your outdoor spaces are looking less than neat, revive them with some help from Tuscan Path

N

o matter how pretty your house is, scrappy outdoor spaces can let the side down. But with just a few well-chosen products from the wide range at Tuscan Path, it’s easy to make changes that will have a big impact on your whole home, whether you have a small yard or a large block.

ON THE EDGE Start with a tidy up: weed and mulch the beds, mow the lawn and deal with the edges. There’s nothing like a neat finish to make a space look polished, and you can achieve those perfect

lines simply thanks to Tuscan Path’s ‘Eco-Edging’ range. Strong, flexible and UV stabilised, it makes light work of straight or curved edges.

PAVING PERFECTION A pretty path to your front door, a form-meets-function patio in your backyard – these are features you will want to make the most of, so it makes sense to get them right. Combine beauty with functionality by teaming stylish porcelain pavers with artistically arranged polished pebbles to create (or just update) paths and patios.

Tuscan Path’s garden screens are a fabulous way to up the wow factor.

With beautiful patterns in attractive weathered steel, Tuscan Path screens can be used to block less than lovely elements, provide privacy from neighbours, or create a sense of enclosure around an outdoor room – or your newly paved patio!

FINISHING TOUCHES A simple splash of potted colour – Tuscan Path has a vast range of pots to suit any style of home – or a piece of wall art on an unattractive fence can make a dramatic difference. For something a bit more zen, a water feature is a lovely option for a soothing effect and makes an enchanting focal point, too. When it comes to creative inspiration and the latest on-trend looks, Tuscan Path’s garden decor products tick all the boxes.

1 Tuscan Path 600mm x 600mm x 20mm porcelain paver in Charcoal, $25.92 each ($72/sqm), I/N: 0129322. 2 Tuscan Path 30-50mm polished pebbles in Black, $15.98/15kg, I/N: 3460086. 3 Tuscan Path ‘Cascade’ 90cm water feature in Slate, $299, I/N: 0271607. 4 Tuscan Path ‘Leaf’ 1800mm x 900mm screen in Rust, $117, I/N: 3042458. 5 Tuscan Path ‘Leaf’ 2400mm x 1200mm screen in Rust, $209, I/N: 0128575. 6 Tuscan Path ‘Jasper’ 37cm large pot in Rust, $65.98, I/N: 0119309. 7 Tuscan Path ‘Eco-Edging’ 20m x 7.5cm x 3mm thinline edging in Thinline Black, $59, I/N: 0332836. 8 Tuscan Path ‘Tree of Life’ 3-piece wall art in Rust, $120, I/N: 0200832.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

THE GREAT ONES MAKE IT LOOK EASY

Matador Palladium 4 Burner Outdoor Kitchen I/N: 0173253

1,699

$

When it comes to cooking perfect leg of lamb the great ones go above and beyond. Discover all the signs of a great barbecue and check out the Matador range at matadorbbqs.com.au

t u o g n i n i D

PLAN IT

ALFRESCO FEASTS

CREATE GOURMET MAGIC IN THE OPEN AIR, WITH A NEW-GENERATION OUTDOOR KITCHEN 

Photography James Hardie. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Words CAROLINE BOTTING

James Hardie ‘HardieDeck’ 3000mm x 196mm x 19mm decking board, $63, I/N: 0710711 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 47

AlfrescoPlus single sink module in Cadet Grey, $1,550, I/N: 0119428†, 1530mm BBQ module in Cadet Grey, $1,650, I/N: 0119422†, and single fridge module in Aluminium, $689, I/N: 0119658†. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered

Location scout

Sun, proximity to the house or to amenities like a pool, privacy and the space available are all factors in deciding where to place your kitchen.

Kaboodle Kitchen’s Monique Parker says it should be as close to your existing kitchen as possible. “This will not only create a feeling of space as the inside flows outside, but will reduce costs if you can connect to existing plumbing, power or gas,” she says.

“If you’re an entertainer, you’ll want to make sure your alfresco kitchen is in a central area and not tucked away out of sight,” says Monique. “This is so you can engage in conversation while preparing or cooking.”

Whether the weather

The kitchen should be made from tough, weather-resistant materials, says Jason Elboz of Space Landscape Designs (spacedesigns.com.au).

“Outdoor kitchens are never going to be watertight, but if you use good products in a good design, they will function well,” he says. Even stainless steel can be susceptible to rust, so creating a protected zone for your outdoor kitchen is optimal. Making sure they are ventilated to Australian standards and out of direct sun is also key, says Rina Di Pietro of AlfrescoPlus.

“This can affect finishes of cabinetry and the performance of bar fridges,” says Rina. “Wind and rain direction should be factored into your design.”

Layout and look

“It’s important to establish the layout of your appliances to make sure that the services – gas and electricity – can be correctly positioned” Rina Di Pietro, AlfrescoPlus 48 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Your budget and how you’ll use your kitchen – daily meals with the family or casual barbies – will help determine how simple or sophisticated you go.

“You need to have a budget first and then work around that,” says Jason.

“For example, polished concrete

Photography AlfrescoPlus, (opposite, from top) Sue Stubbs, design Adam Robinson Design adamrobinsondesign.com; Space Landscape Designs. Illustrations (plants and pavers on floor plans) Getty Images.†Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

T

here’s something about cooking and eating outdoors that makes everything taste better.

Upgrading from a simple barbecue to an outdoor kitchen setup allows you to spend more time in the thick of the alfresco action, with guests and family. Options range from barbecue kitchens – essentially a barbecue unit with extras – to modular versions, where you can cherrypick the units you need, such as a sink, fridge, storage or all of the above. Here’s how to get started.

PLAN YOUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN LAYOUT

SINK

BBQ

FRIDGE

SINGLE LINE An economical option with easy flow between the kitchen and other outdoor spaces

SINK

FRIDGE BBQ

benchtops are very popular at the moment, but are very expensive due to the labour and engineering.”

In your layout, allow space for key kitchen zones – preparation, storage, cooking and serving – and consider carefully where to place hot zones (barbecue, pizza oven or cooktop), wet areas (the sink), prep and storage areas (benches and cabinets), and cold areas (the fridge).

Automated awnings allow you to use your alfresco dining zone whatever the weather

U-SHAPED Gives the cook quick access to appliances and helps keep children away from the hot grill

BBQ

FRIDGE

Timber screening and a weatherproof pergola help to protect this outdoor kitchen from the elements

FRIDGE

SINK

L-SHAPED A sociable layout that still separates prep and storage areas from the cooking zone bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 49

SHOP

“It’s highly likely that a barbecue or pizza oven will be included in the design, so it’s a good idea to consider the size of these when designing the space,” says Monique Parker, who recommends including a sink.

If budget allows, an outdoor bar fridge can also help to reduce foot traffic indoors. Make sure you account for the cost of licensed tradies to install lighting and appliances.

2

1

3

Other essentials

Outdoor kitchens need to be located on a level area and flooring has to be durable and slip-resistant. Ceramic tiles, bricks, pressed concrete and pre-cast pavers are all stylish, water-resistant options. Materials around the cookzone, such as behind the barbecue, need to be heatproof.

Also factor in lighting: illumination above the barbecue is essential, so you can see what you’re cooking!

Consider shadows – don’t put the main light behind the chef, or behind the barbecue if it will be blocked by a hood. If you have an overhead covering, fixed downlights and spotlights are great for lighting up the cooking zone, and can also set the ambience in the dining area.

4 5

8

6

7

9

Learn how to put in a Kaboodle kitchen: bunnings.com.au/installan-outdoor-kaboodle-kitchen

10

Read it Keep in mind... n Any plumbing or electrical works must be carried out by a licensed tradie. n Ensure lighting is suitable for outdoor use.

50 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

11

1 Gasmate ‘Alfresco’ BBQ rangehood, $1,420, I/N: 0204745†. 2 Brilliant ‘Coolum’ twin head exterior light, $89.90, I/N: 7070819 (globes sold separately). 3 Chapala clay pizza oven, $745, I/N: 3180436.

4 Jumbuck ‘Stardom’ 4 burner BBQ kitchen, $599, I/N: 0036339. 5 Decor8 Tiles ‘Panelstone’ 400mm x 125mm vertical paver in Bengal Blend, $24.99/pack of 5, I/N: 3460029. 6 AlfrescoPlus double sink module in Arctic White, $1,899, I/N: 0119433†. 7 Brilliant ‘Xtreme’ 178cm extra large indoor outdoor ABS DC ceiling fan with remote in Timber Look, $779, I/N: 0216745. 8 Matador single door stainless steel bar fridge, $845, I/N: 3171041. 9 Gecko 25W bug zapper lantern, $52, I/N: 0292182. 10 Tuscan Path 600mm x 600mm x 20mm porcelain paver in Taupe, $25.92, I/N: 0129326. 11 Matador ‘Titan’ 6 burner BBQ kitchen, $3,499, I/N: 3180877†. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

†Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

Scan the QR code

Effortless entry.

Styles to choose We’ve all experienced arriving home at the end of a long day, laden with bags and shopping, and having to set these items down as we fumble with keys to open the front door.

Yale Access Kit

Yale’s unique new geofencing technology is set to change all of that — plus much more — with the auto-unlock functions of the new smart locks range powered by the Yale Access App. This cutting-edge technology means that your door will automatically unlock as you approach, almost as if you have a very efficient, invisible doorman.

Yale Unity® Entrance Lock

Yale Assure Lock® Keyed*

Yale Assure Lock® SL - Satin Chrome*

Download the free Yale Access app on iOS and Android.

Disclaimer: Other products’ brand names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners and are mentioned for reference purposes only. Products are sold separately. * Yale Access Kit is required for Yale Access App compatibility.

Part of ASSA ABLOY

Scan here to find out more

Yale Assure Lock® SL - Matt Black*

Advertising promotion

Fine lines

A cute cottage gets a sleek extension to stop traffic.

With exterior cladding by James Hardie, It’s Possible™

REE OR FFO E E BB

Hardie™ Fine Texture Cladding

W See Matt & Jane’s full story on JamesHardieAU YouTube channel

hen Jane and Matt outgrew their 1940s cottage, it was time to upgrade and expand. Inspired by an image found on Pinterest, the couple dreamed of an extension that would bring their home into the 21st century. “We didn’t want anything old and boring, we wanted something bold,” says homeowner Jane.

MODERN LOVE

To help get you started with your modern renovation, download the James Hardie Renovation Guide from jameshardie.com.au/renovationguide

The brief was simple: modern, clean lines, and plenty of natural light.

Nestled on the south side of a hill, the home needed height to capture the northern sun; using Hardie™ Fine Texture Cladding allowed them to build a soaring, steeply pitched roof with expansive windows and large doors that opened onto a decked

alfresco area. The home’s bold, modern design and abundant sunshine was everything that Jane and Matt dreamed of.

FACE VALUE Hardie™ Fine Texture Cladding was chosen not only for its durability, but also for its fine textured finish and contemporary matte look. “The look is so much better than brick and at a lesser price,” says Jane.

Hardie™ Fine Texture Cladding also resists cracking, so Matt and Jane felt free to go bold with a punchy charcoal, Dulux Domino. “We’re just thrilled that a photo on Pinterest has taken us on a journey that has led us to our dream home.”

Follow @jameshardieau on Pinterest for more inspiration

UPDATE IT

OUTDOOR SOAKING

SPLASH ZONE LOOKING FOR A FAST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE GOOD LIFE THIS SUMMER? A BACKYARD SPA IS A SIMPLE AND FUN ADDITION

Photography Getty Images. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Words LYNNE TESTONI

N Thanks to heated water, you can enjoy your spa all year round!

ow summer’s here, why not up the fun factor with some water play (for the kids) and relaxation time (for the adults)? Portable pools and spas are a way to dip your toe into the water without committing to an inground pool, suggests Edmond Yip of Bestway Australia. “Inground pools cost a lot of money and can be quite inconvenient,” he says. “You’ve got to have space, dig a hole and maintain the pool water even when you’re not using it, such as in winter.” Here’s our primer to help you make a choice.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 53

If space is tight, an inflatable or semipermanent spa gives welcome flexibility.

“If you’ve only got a couple of hundred square metres’ worth of space, you don’t have the luxury of putting in an inground pool and losing your backyard forever,” says Edmond. “All our spas and pools are either inflatables or come with a PVC liner and a metal frame structure, so the main benefit is portability.”

Place preference

Spas, like pools, are subject to strict safety regulations

Spas and plunge pools that are hardwired must be installed by a licensed electrician, while inflatable models generally only need an extension cord to be plugged into a dedicated electrical outlet for the filter and pump, making the decision about where to put them easier.

The most important requirements are a flat, stable surface and access to power. Ensure all electrical cords are well clear of the water.

Smaller space splash out

With more Australians than ever living in homes with limited outdoor space, spas can be a great choice for a patio or a small deck – providing, of course, the structure can take the weight. Spas and pools can be quite heavy when they’re full, says Lindsay McGrath, CEO of the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia (SPASA). “If you’ve got a 5000 litre spa, you’ve got 5000 litres of water, which is five tonnes, plus you have to factor in the weight of the spa itself,” says Lindsay.

“As long as your deck or patio can hold the weight of the water and the product, then it can go anywhere.”

Bestway ‘Lay-Z-Spa Milan Airjet Plus’ 1.96m x 71cm inflatable spa, $899, I/N: 0262783†

Whether you tuck the spa into a discreet corner is down to power point access and personal preference, but Lindsay says, “I don’t think you should hide the pool. It is a feature and inspiration to promote a healthier lifestyle and fun times with friends and family.”

Whereas permanent spas tend to be inground, which makes it easier to blend them into the surrounding landscape, you can still work an above ground or portable model into the surrounds and make it look special.

Keep in mind...

Hard-shell spas mean you’ll never have to worry about punctures from pet claws 54 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Any plumbing or electrical work must be carried out by a licensed tradie. n Wear appropriate safety protection when using pool and spa chemicals, and store them out of reach of children and pets. n

Photography (top left) Alamy Stock Photo; (left) Getty Images. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk. ‡Not all services are available in all stores.

Looking good

A pretty path or stepping stones leading to the spa from the house turns it into a delightful destination, while also keeping wet feet clean.

Other features might include a bench seat, an outdoor shower for rinsing off or a gazebo for weather protection and privacy. If the spa will be packed away for part of the year, think about how the space could be multipurpose; for example, bench seats and non-combustible flooring might make it an ideal conversation corner around a fire pit. Greenery is a fail-safe way to help a bulky spa blend into the landscape, but make sure it doesn’t include climbable trees, which would compromise safety (see ‘Safety check’, right). Instead, look to low soft hedges or plantings.

Clear waters

Prevention is the best way to maintain pristine water in your pool or spa, says Lindsay. He recommends keeping deciduous trees away from the water, if possible. “Obviously, any organic matter in the water affects the chemistry,” he says, noting that the right chemical balance will help to keep the water safe and enjoyable to be in.

Many pool chemicals are available in store, as well as simple testing kits to ensure the water is clean and safe. Or you can take a sample of your pool or spa water in store for testing – see bunnings.com.au/ services/in-store/pool-watertesting for details‡. SPASA also has useful pool and spa maintenance information on its website (poolspalife.com.au).

ABOVE Bestway ‘Lay-Z-Spa Hawaii HydroJet Pro’ 1.8m x 71cm inflatable spa, $1,499, I/N: 0212138† BELOW Bestway ‘Lay-Z-Spa Miami Airjet’ inflatable spa, $489, I/N: 0228582†

SAFETY CHECK

New spa owners may be surprised to learn they must include fencing when installing even a small spa in their yard. Regulations vary in each state and territory, and you should seek out your local authority’s regulations and guidelines before you install any water feature, including a spa or plunge pool, even if they are temporary structures.

More information about local pool fencing requirements can be found on SPASA’s website (spasa.com.au/ consumer-info/fencing-laws).

SHOP

1

4

3 2

5

6

7

8

1 Bestway ‘Lay-Z-Spa St. Moritz Airjet’ 2.16m x 71cm inflatable spa, $999, I/N: 0230328†. 2 Bestway ‘Lay-Z-Spa Hollywood Airjet’ 1.96m x 66cm inflatable spa, $1,099, I/N: 0295829†. 3 Baracuda spa bromine tablets, $34.95/1kg, I/N: 0327457. 4 Baracuda spa test strips, $19.95/pack of 50, I/N: 0327429. 5 Bestway ‘Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki Airjet’ 1.8m x 66cm inflatable spa, $1,199, I/N: 0230326†. 6 Baracuda pool & spa vacuum, $199, I/N: 0327419. 7 Spa Life ‘245’ 200cm x 200cm x 90cm portable spa, $5,999, I/N: 0208882†. 8 Hy-Clor spa fragrance in Berry Blast, $19/1L, I/N: 0327208. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 55

BE PREPARED FOR STORM SEASON

NEW

NOW AVAILABLE IN EASY-TO-USE

WATERPROOF TAPE FORMAT

UPDATE IT

PROPERTY PROTECTION

STORMY WEATHER THE FLIP SIDE OF AUSTRALIA’S BALMY CLIMATE IS BIG STORMS AND BUSHFIRES, BUT A FEW PREVENTATIVE MEASURES CAN HELP WITH DAMAGE CONTROL 

Photography Getty Images.

Words LOUISE BELFIELD

Tropical zones are particularly prone to monsoonal conditions during summer months bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 57

Bushf ires

Senior bushfire consultant Anthony Power (covey.com.au) says good landscape design can help reduce the chance of losing a home to bushfire in the long-term, but there are also things you can do in the short-term.

“Fine fuels from vegetation are the main source of fuel in bushfires,” he says. “If there are leaves, twigs or other combustible materials lying around, clear them away, especially from against buildings.

As a rule of thumb, trees, branches and shrubs within 10m of your home or overhanging your roof must be cut back. Check if there is an opportunity to trap or filter embers and shield the house from radiant heat, such as with non-combustible garden walls, fences or even lessflammable plant species placed at an appropriate distance from the home.”

Bunnings national plumbing buyer Henry Fudge adds, “Make sure your roofing and guttering are in good condition, install metal guttering and guards where possible and, ideally, attach sprinklers to the gutters.”

Prepare your home for the worst by ensuring you have hoses and enough water, and that there’s good access for a fire crew, if needed.

BUSHFIRE CHECKLIST*

nC lean leaves and twigs

from your gutters and roof.

n I nstall metal gutter guards. nR epair damaged or missing

roof tiles.

n I nstall fine metal mesh

screens to windows and doors. nF it seals around windows and doors to eliminate gaps where embers can enter. nR epair or cover gaps in external walls. nE nclose any areas underneath the house. n Install a sprinkler system to your roof or gutters. nK eep lawns short and gardens well maintained. nC ut back any trees that are overhanging buildings. nC lean up leaves, twigs and other flammable debris. nH ave suitable hoses long enough to reach around your house. n Put a Static Water Supply (SWS) sign on your gate if you have a pool, tank or dam, so firefighters know where they can find water. n Replace wooden fences with metal fences. nR eplace mulch with stones. nM ove gas cylinders away from the house and trees (ideally the area should be well cleared of combustible material at all times).

“It is important to have a good look around your property to see where secondary fires could take hold” Anthony Power, senior bushfire consultant 58 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

High winds

“Existing leaks in your roof can become worse in high winds,” says Samuel Wong, Bunnings national steel and roofing trainee buyer. “Loose roofing can also be torn off and damage a roof even more, so it’s essential that you check your roof or have it inspected.

Also check for tree branches that could cause damage to your home or cars, or injure people if they come down.”

HIGH WIND CHECKLIST*

On a regular basis, and especially when high winds are forecast, check for: nL oose tiles or shingles, guttering and downpipes. nF lashing missing or dislodged from around skylights and chimneys. nL oose or damaged valley metal on your roof. nT ree branches that could threaten your home. nA nything that can become a missile, like outdoor furniture, garden tools and trampolines. Move them or tie them down.

Photography Getty Images. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings. *Sources: rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/prepare-your-property; ses.nsw.gov.au/stormsafe/simplethings-you-can-do/prepare-for-a-storm-now/; bom.gov.au/australia/flood/knowledge-centre/

S

ummer means barbies and beach days, but it can also mean natural disasters, as the hot climate we love triggers extreme weather and bushfires. The consequences for homes can be devastating. However, you can take action to minimise the damage from whatever is headed your way.

LEFT When planning a new garden, select and position trees and shrubs so they won’t grow too close to buildings when mature

Hail

Hailstorms, while usually short-lived, can be very destructive. Parts of Australia have experienced hailstones as big as golf balls, shredding gardens and destroying homes and cars. “Your roof can be destroyed in a matter of minutes if it’s not in good repair to begin with,” says Samuel. A few preventative measures can mean the difference between expensive major damage and minor repairs.

LEFT Always follow safety instructions from your ladder’s manufacturer when working at height to secure roof tiles

Scan the QR code Find out which gutter guard is right for your home: bunnings.com. au/choose-fire-resistant-gutter-guard

Choose good-quality metal gutter guard that is fire rated and complies to Australian standards

Watch it!

HAILSTORM CHECKLIST*

n Ensure your roof is well

maintained, with no gaps where ice or melting ice can enter. If you’re thinking of having your entire roof replaced, look into impactresistant asphalt tiles or steel roofing material. n I nstall permanent shutters to windows, skylights and sliding doors to prevent hailstones from shattering glass. n Pull your curtains or blinds to stop glass blowing into your home if any windows do shatter. n Remove tree branches that overhang the house, and dead or dying trees. n Install metal screens around air conditioning units. n Replace plastic gutters and downpipes with steel ones. n Move vehicles, power equipment, outdoor furniture and garbage bins under cover, or protect them with heavy blankets.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 59

SHOP

Flash f looding

Flash flooding is usually the result of intense local rain and can inundate your home within about three to six hours of rainfall.

Find out if you are in a flood prone area and be aware that you are unlikely to get much advance warning if the worst should happen.

1

2

3

5

FLOODING CHECKLIST*

nK now where your water, gas

4

and electricity shut-off switches and taps are.

Switch everything off if water is rising around your home. nE levate furniture. nS ecure whitegoods so they can’t float. nE mpty the contents of your freezer into a cooler and secure it off the floor. nW ork out what would be the safest route to leave your property, and if you could be cut off by floodwaters. nC ontact your local SES or council for sandbags to help to protect your home. nP ut sandbags into the toilet bowl and over drains to stop sewage back flow. nM ove outdoor equipment, garbage, chemicals and poisons to higher ground.

7

6

8

leave quickly and your pets are safe. nL eave well before roads are closed by water. nH ave an emergency kit of food, blankets and torches handy, in case you’re stuck in the house with no power. nH ave an escape plan: know how you will leave and where to go if you have to.

9 10

Keep in mind...

Check your state or territory emergency services website for more information. n If a bushfire is threatening, leaving early is the safest option. Listen to your fire service’s advice. n Keep your home and contents insurance up to date and check the cover is adequate n

60 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

1 Fielders ‘Colorbond’ 2.4m x 840mm x 16mm corrugated roofing in Woodland Grey, $38.20, I/N: 0910309. 2 GumLeaf ‘Colorbond’ 1200mm 80 fold metal tile gutter guard in Woodland Grey, $14.97, I/N: 3040268†. 3 Ryobi ‘One+’ 18V 32mm telescopic bypass pole lopper, $299/skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 0232184. 4 Colorbond 1.79m steel double sided fencing infill sheet in Monument, $22.14, I/N: 0910743 (not in SA); $20.79, I/N: 0203791 (SA only). 5 Saxon fibreglass long handle metal head leaf rake, $19, I/N: 0246318. 6 Holman metal fire hose cart with 36m x 20mm fitted fire hose, $399, I/N: 3110725†. 7 Arlec rechargeable LED torch with flood light, $25, I/N: 0145166. 8 Esky ‘Arctic Pro’ 70L cooler in Blue, $199, I/N: 0152025. 9 Icon 100mm x 50mm downpipe plug, $6.15, I/N: 4774095. 10 GumLeaf ‘Colorbond’ 1200mm metal corrugated gutter guard in Woodland Grey, $16.98, I/N: 3040245. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

†Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk. *Sources: rfs.nsw.gov.au/planand-prepare/prepare-your-property; ses.nsw.gov.au/stormsafe/simple-things-you-cando/prepare-for-a-storm-now/; bom.gov.au/australia/flood/knowledge-centre/.

nE nsure your car is ready to

CHECKLIST During blackouts Storm season preparation Changing smoke alarms Fire season preparation Outdoor trips & recreation

TM

with the versatile range of products from Energizer® and EVEREADY®

AU & NZ, 18+. 01/12/2021 – 31/01/2022. Purchase any two Energizer��������������������������������������������������www.energizerpromo.com/sing2���������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

Mulch is a key weapon in the fight against water evaporation and, if organic, can add nutrients to your soil

DON’T LEAVE YOUR GARDEN HIGH AND DRY THIS SUMMER. TRY THESE TIPS TO BEAT THE HEAT Tammy

Words TAMMY HUYNH

62 bunnings.com.au |

H

bunnings |

uynh

bunnings

Photography (main) Getty Images; (headshot) Eric Tieng.

STAYIN’ ALIVE

UPDATE IT

W

Water works

hile we can seek refuge indoors or undercover in high summer, our plants aren’t so lucky.

The soaring temperatures and harsh UV rays can cause them to wilt, burn or completely fry. Fortunately, there’s plenty you can do to protect them and help them survive the heat.

Throwing shade

One of the best ways to provide relief from the intense sun is to install a shade cloth. “Look for one with a 30-50 per cent shade rating and erect it over vulnerable plants,” says horticulturist Angie Thomas of Yates. Create a frame using stakes or star pickets to allow you to easily install or place the cover over the plants. “Shade cloth is particularly handy in the tomato patch, as fruit is susceptible to sunburn if not protected,” adds Angie. For potted plants, move pots to a shadier spot or, if that’s not an option, set up a sun umbrella to keep them cool.

PLANT PROTECTION

An irrigation controller allows you to program an entire watering schedule, tailored to zones and varying water distribution

“Wilting is an indication that the plant is losing more moisture from the leaves than it can absorb through its roots. It’s a cry for help!”

Wilting leaves are a sign plants are suffering from lack of water, but you don’t necessarily need to water more – it’s about when and how. “It’s best to water deeply a few times a week instead of small waterings every day,” says Angie. “Thorough watering moves the moisture deeper into the soil, which promotes deeper root growth and helps plants cope better with hot and dry conditions.”

Hand watering is easy but time consuming, says Matt Wichmann of Holman. “Hoses and watering cans are ideal for small balcony gardens, pot plants and targeting specific areas, but for those with larger spaces or lots of plants, consider installing irrigation.” A black poly pipe with drippers is very effective. “Set it up so it waters the root zone directly; this will help maximise water efficiency and minimise run-off and evaporation,” says Matt. “Add a tap timer to make the whole system automated!”

Sandy soils struggle to hold on to water – mixing in organic matter can help

Angie Thomas, horticulturist

Dig deep

Over time, soil and potting mix can become water repellent, or hydrophobic. “Instead of being absorbed into the soil, water pools on the surface and does not move effectively or evenly into the root zone,” explains Angie.

“Apply a wetting agent to help break down the waxy, waterrepellent layer and allow the water

to penetrate into the root zone.”

A hose-on pack is a good option for large areas like the lawn.

Improving the soil with organic matter can also help increase its water uptake. “Organic matter like compost and composted animal manures act like a moisture sponge in the soil,” says Angie. “Mix them into the soil at planting time and reapply regularly through the year.” 

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 63

SHOP

Exploit heat traps by cultivating a colourful, drought-hardy garden of succulents

1

2

3 4

6

7

Cover up

Mulch is one of the garden’s most valuable tools. “It keeps the soil cool and reduces moisture loss,” says Angie. Organic mulches like pea straw, lucerne and pine bark are great because, as they break down, they add organic matter to the soil. Straw mulches can be applied up to 10cm thick, but keep bark mulches between 5-8cm. Don’t forget to mulch pots, too.

Inorganic mulches like gravel and stones will also work, but they don’t add anything to the soil.

Mow matters

It’s tempting to mow the lawn as short as possible to reduce frequency of cutting, but this does more damage than good. The golden rule is to never mow more than one-third of the length off your grass. Why is this so critical in the hot season? Long blades of grass provide cover and shade for the soil, so the roots stay moist.

64 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

“If you live in an area with hot, dry summers, look for plants that are particularly suited to these growing conditions,” says Angie. “Try cacti and succulents, Australian natives and Mediterranean plants like lavender, echium, olives and rosemary.” Hardwearing plants generally share similar features, such as hairy or waxy leaves, or silver-toned foliage.

“Strategic and smart watering is key to helping our gardens thrive in summer” Matt Wichmann, Holman

bunnings

8

1 Pillar Products ‘Garden Shield SC303610CG’ 3.66m 30% pre-packed shade cloth in Cottage Green, $79/10m, I/N: 0183675.

2 Coolaroo 1.83m 50% garden shade cloth in White, $30.95/3m, I/N: 3300397.

3 Rosemary ‘Tuscany Blue’ plant.

4 Richgro ‘Ezi Wet’ hose on soil wetter, $13.35/2L, I/N: 0135317. 5 Holman ‘WX8’ wi-fi irrigation controller with EVIE sensor, $194, I/N: 0233369. 6 Holman ‘PC Shrubbler’ barbed dripper, $12.78/pack of 10, I/N: 3120577. 7 Garden Basics ‘Water Saving’ mulch, $3.98/25L, I/N: 0274307. 8 Seasol ‘Super’ compost, $7.98/25L, I/N: 0274164.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Scan the QR code See how watering systems are set up: bunnings.com.au/installirrigation-sprayers-and-drippers

Keep in mind...

Check water restrictions with your local council.

Wear a mask, gloves and eye protection when applying soil wetter, compost and mulch products. n Store products for improving soil out of the reach of children and pets. n n

Watch it!

Photography Getty Images.

Some like it hot

5

Hit the road fully charged.

If you’re keen to charge your van’s batteries and cool its fridge before heading off on holidays, grab an Ampfibian adaptor to safely and legally connect your 15A caravan to any normal 10A power point at home.

Ampfibian power adaptors are made in Australia and specifically designed to prevent overloads, protecting your home and your insurance policy.

Pick one up in your local Bunnings store or find out more: ampfibian.com.au

Connect. Protect. Relax.

DO IT

HORTICULTURE KIT

Tools of the trade HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO HELP YOUR GARDEN GROW

1 2

G

4 5 6

1 Spade

Use it to cut into new garden beds, define edges and shift dirt around the backyard. “Its flat, narrow blade and solid handle is perfect for getting through hard, compacted soil,” says Tristan Eastaugh of Cyclone.

2

7

Hoe

9

“A hoe is great for breaking up soil, clearing areas, cultivating, and chopping up weeds,” says Tristan. A double-ended hoe has a pointed blade for targeting weeds and making furrows.

8

3 Garden fork

4

“Everyone needs a good multi-purpose shovel in their shed,” says Tristan. Use a post hole model for digging deep holes, scooping dry material and carving out shallow trenches. If you’re shifting lots of gravel or soil, use a square-mouth or shifting shovel.

5 Weed puller

6

Cyclone square mouth post hole shovel, $48, I/N: 3369776 bunnings |

Pruners

The best way to keep your garden from turning into an overgrown mess. “Bypass pruners are ideal for cutting through live stems without inflicting damage on your plants,” says Tristan.

Use them for stems and branches up to 25mm in diameter.

This must-have tool is designed to effortlessly pull up the entire weed.

66 bunnings.com.au |

10

1 Cyclone ‘PDH’ short handle garden spade, $39, I/N: 3364645. 2 Cyclone 75mm long handle double ended hoe, $54.80, I/N: 3369522. 3 Trojan ‘4WD’ compact fork, $17.60, I/N: 0190210. 4 Spear & Jackson square mouth shovel in White, $11.95, I/N: 3360623. 5 Fiskars ‘Xact’ 4 prongs weed puller, $74, I/N: 2970049. 6 Fiskars Plus ‘PowerLever’ 24mm bypass pruner, $39.98, I/N: 0241667. 7 Cyclone stainless steel fork hand tool, $10.50, I/N: 3360486. 8 Cyclone timber handle thatching rake, $39.98, I/N: 0149062. 9 Bahco 190mm foldable pruning saw, $39, I/N: 0242926. 10 Trojan compact bypass lopper, $21.90, I/N: 0242136. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

This helps you turn, aerate and cultivate soil in preparation for planting.

“Forged tines are also good for lifting plants for division, plus removing large weeds and dead plants,” says Tristan.

Shovel

3

Big shifter

Words TAMMY HUYNH

ood gardening tools are the gift that keeps on giving, making it easy to get your backyard looking fabulous. From simple hand tools to ground-breaking tech, these are our picks.

SHOP

bunnings

7 Small hand tools

Use a trowel for potting up, and a hand fork to cultivate the soil and mix compost and fertilisers without disturbing nearby plants.

8

Rakes

These are optimised for different tasks. A leaf rake is light and suitable for fallen leaves and debris, a soil rake is for cultivating soil and raking stones, while a thatching rake is for removing the build-up of thatch in the lawn.

SHOP

12

13 14

Be sun safe

11 16

19

18 17

15 20 11 Ozito 2400W rapid garden shredder, $175, I/N: 0152686. 12 Fiskars ‘Smartfit HS86’ telescopic hedge shear, $79, I/N: 3350823. 13 Ryobi ‘One+’ 18V cordless blower vac, $269/skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 3381343. 14 Holman ‘WX1’ tap timer and wi-fi hub, $99, I/N: 0246021. 15 Victa 18V line trimmer & edger kit, $145, I/N: 0331399. 16 Nylex 5L rechargeable shoulder sprayer, $79, I/N: 0273748. 17 Sherlock 80L home use poly tray wheelbarrow, $125, I/N: 3360549. 18 Scotts ‘Easy’ hand held fertiliser spreader in Green, $24.59, I/N: 3351482. 19 Bunnings cap in Green, $3, I/N: 8510134.

20 Ryobi ‘One+’ 18V 4.0Ah 36cm lawn mower kit, $349, I/N: 3381291.

9 Pruning saw

For removing large limbs from trees and shrubs. Sharp metal teeth let you cut through branches with ease.

area you need to clear, as well as associated noise impacts, will help you choose between the different power options,” says Matt.

10 Loppers

14 Irrigation

Similar to pruners, but with long handles that let you reach further and cut thicker branches (up to 40mm).

To trim high branches, look for loppers with telescopic handles.

11 Mulcher/shredder

Helps turn dead leaves, twigs and branches into mulch that you can spread onto the garden or add to the compost heap.

12 Hedge shears

Keeps your hedges trim and tidy. “Straight blades are for finer hedges and topiary, while wavy-blade shears cut twiggy growth,” says horticulturist Matt Carroll Saxon 550mm wavy hedge of Hortiman (@hortiman).

13 Blower-vac

shear, $8, I/N: 0238959

Deals with fallen leaves and debris.

“Assessing the overall size of the

property’s access – narrow wheelbarrows are available for tighter passages,” says Matt.

18 Fertiliser spreader

A good hose and a watering can are garden must-haves, but an irrigation system can be automated.

Quickly and evenly feed the lawn with a hand-held or push option, to suit lawns of all sizes. You can use it to help distribute lawn seed, too.

15 Line trimmer

19 Safety gear

16 Garden sprayers

20 Lawn mower

Neaten lawn edges with one of these useful tools. “Bent shaft models are fine for trimming along fences and borders, but for a crisp edge, choose a straight shaft trimmer,” says Matt.

Sprayers are great for mixing up concentrates and for widespread application of weedkillers and fertilisers. “Keep your sprayers separated by task, otherwise it’s a recipe for cross-contamination and disaster,” advises Matt.

Invest in good garden gloves, a hat, protective eyewear, covered shoes, and wear long sleeves when possible.

“Battery lawn mowers have come a long way and are a viable option, especially for smaller lawns,” says Matt. For medium to large lawns, petrol mowers will go the distance.

Keep in mind...

17 Wheelbarrow

Make light work of moving things around the garden with a strong wheelbarrow. “Consider your

Cyclone ‘Flexitec’ gloves in Cactus, $10/medium, I/N: 0313292

When using tree loppers, follow instructions, wear protective gear, set up an exclusion zone and never cut directly overhead.

n

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 67

Advertising promotion Mechanix Wear gloves are not only comfortable, they’ll help your hands stay safe and dry

A hands-on summer With Mechanix Wear gloves you can keep your hands as shipshape as your home projects

F

or those who love to muck in and get things done, there’s no better feeling than to tackle projects around the backyard. As any weekend warrior will know, sometimes it can be a tough and dirty job. Whether you’re repotting plants, pruning your prized hedge or finally building that retaining wall, you need to know that your best DIY assets – your hands – are getting the protection you need, without hindering your movement.

Mechanix Wear ‘slim fit’ leather rigger gloves, $24.90, I/N: 0270067.

COMFORT AND PROTECTION You couldn’t ask for better than Mechanix Wear Leather Rigger Gloves. These versatile work gloves are full Durahide™ leather – that’s eight times more durable than untreated leather, meaning the hardiest of landscaping jobs can be tackled securely.

Water-resistant and certified to Australian standards, the gloves need no break-in time so you can get straight down to work, and their superior design and breathability means optimum comfort and ease of use, with a stretch-elastic cuff for easy on/off flexibility.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Mechanix Wear gloves are ideal for protecting hands while working in the garden

THE PERFECT FIT Whether your hands are of the burly or delicate variety, there’s a glove to suit.

The Slimfit design, in sizes small to large, improves control and dexterity, so you can take greater care around fragile planting jobs. And when you’re done for the day, your Mechanix Wear gloves can go straight into the washing machine, ready for another session when the sun comes out to play.

To see the full range of gloves for all gardening jobs, scan the QR code or visit mechanix.com

DO IT

r e t a w d Just ad

SELF-IRRIGATING BED

FORGOT TO GIVE THE VEGIES A DRINK AGAIN? SET UP A WICKING SYSTEM TO AID YOUR CHANCES OF A PRODUCTIVE CROP  Project and photography NATASHA DICKINS

Position the bed away from strong winds and, in warmer regions, in a spot that receives shade from hot afternoon sun bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 69

DICKIN

NATAS

A

1

I

S

H

2

f you struggle to keep your vegies and herbs from drying out in summer, a wicking bed might be the solution. It works like an oversized self-watering pot; water is stored in a reservoir in the base of a raised garden bed, which keeps the soil above moist, reducing consumption and saving time, compared to manual watering. The low-tech system is built up in layers, beginning with plastic to create a sealed tub. Slotted ag-pipe is then laid out and carefully covered with a layer of scoria to form a reservoir filled with water via a PVC downpipe socket. An outlet on the side prevents the bed flooding in heavy rain. A layer of weed matting stops debris clogging the reservoir, then soil and plants are added over this, with the roots drawing water up in a wicking action.

Once the reservoir is filled, the bed can be left for days or even weeks. Tip: Since the bed is protected from invasive roots of surrounding trees, it can be set up on any surface.

1 Set up a raised bed on a flat surface. Cover the base with cardboard to protect the plastic from cuts. To make the overflow outlet, drill 130mm up from the base with a step bit to 20mm wide. Push a 19mm barbed joiner through the hole and fully twist on a 20mm barbed elbow, positioning it to face down. Seal around both sides of the hole with roofing silicone and leave to cure.

DIY TOOLKIT

3 Where the plastic meets the overflow outlet, place a piece of gaffer tape on both sides of the plastic, cut a 19mm-diameter circle through the layers and push it onto the overflow outlet, sealing around it with silicone.

5

4

3

7

6

12

10

8 9

2 Position ultra-tough builder’s plastic over the base of the bed, spreading it into the corners and up over the sides, holding it along the top with quick-grip clamps or pegs.

11

13

1

1 Icon Plastics 80mm PVC round downpipe socket, $3.90, I/N: 4774558. 2 Tommy Tape 25mm self fusing silicone tape in Clear, $13.80/3m, I/N: 0054483. 3 Reln ‘Stretch’ 65mm ag-pipe end cap, $4.60, I/N: 4770301. 4 Icon Plastics 80mm downpipe plug, $6.15, I/N: 4779566. 5 Saxon 1.83m pre-packed weed control mat, $19.99/10m, I/N: 0291660. 6 Reln ‘Stretch’ 65mm slotted and socked ag-pipe, $35/7m, I/N: 0081412. 7 Craftright 10-30mm step drill bit, $19.88, I/N: 6290411. 8 Pope 25mm barbed 20mm BSP male threaded elbow, $2.20, I/N: 3126489. 9 Pope 19mm barbed joiner, $1.05, I/N: 3126219. 10 Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V 2.0Ah drill driver kit, $99, I/N: 0029012. 11 Brunnings perlite, $29.98/25L, I/N: 0274287. 12 Grunt 2m ultra tough plastic film, $30/5m, I/N: 0810293. 13 Brunnings coir potting mix, $20.82/65L, I/N: 0274286. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

2

Tools & materials nS afety equipment (gloves, mask, eye protection) n Tape measure and pencil n Drill n Step drill bit n Quick-grip clamps (or pegs) n Scissors n Wheelbarrow n Shovel n Bucket n Hose 70 bunnings.com.au |

Garden bed Cardboard 19mm barbed joiner 20mm barbed elbow Roofing silicone Ultra-tough builder’s plastic Gaffer tape 65mm stretch ag-pipe end cap n 65mm slotted and socked stretch ag-pipe n n n n n n n n

bunnings |

bunnings

n8 0mm PVC round downpipe socket n Self-fusing silicone tape n 80mm downpipe plug n Scoria n Weed matting n Planting media n Perlite n Compost n Lucerne mulch

3

“A self-watering system can be any size, but the garden bed should be at least 300mm deep”

We used an easy-to-assemble corrugated steel garden bed.

Birdies ‘8-in-1’ 2.1m x 1.1m x 0.385m modular raised garden bed in Monolith, $169, I/N: 0077696

Keep in mind Wear a mask, eye protection and gloves when drilling, applying silicone and handling compost and mulch. n The amount of filler depends on the garden bed’s size. We used 14 x 16kg bags of scoria, six blocks of 90L coir potting mix, three 25L bags of perlite, six buckets of compost and half a bale of mulch. n

Natasha Dickins, DIY specialist

4 Fit a 65mm end cap to one end of 65mm ag-pipe, and an 80mm downpipe socket to the other, securing both with self-fusing silicone tape. Install an 80mm downpipe plug.

5 Carefully sprinkle a 30mm layer of scoria over the plastic, coiling the pipe over it with the downpipe attachment sitting upright in a corner. Add a further 100mm of scoria, finishing just above the outlet. Tip: We used the full 7m of ag-pipe, but it can be cut to fit the bed.

6 Lay weed matting over the scoria, spreading it into the corners and up over the sides of the bed, holding in place with clamps or pegs. Use scissors to cut a hole in the matting to fit over the downpipe. Tip: As well as keeping soil out of the reservoir, the weed matting contributes to the wicking process by soaking up moisture.

7

5

4

TIP

SCORIA IS LIGHTWEIGHT VOLCANIC STONE THAT HELPS AERATE THE WATER WHILE PUTTING LESS STRAIN ON THE GARDEN BED STRUCTURE THAN GRAVEL

6

8

7 In a wheelbarrow, combine planting media with perlite, then shovel the mix to fill the bed to 50mm from the top. Trim away the excess plastic and matting with scissors just under the bed’s rim. Tip: We used concentrated coir potting mix bricks, each mixed with 30L of water, a bucket of compost and half a bag of perlite to reduce compaction and improve aeration.

8 Plant out seedlings, applying seaweed tonic diluted as per packaging instructions, then add lucerne mulch, covering any protruding plastic and matting. Remove the plug to run a hose into the downpipe to fill the reservoir with water – it will overflow from the outlet when full. Replace the plug to keep out bugs. Tip: Manually water seedlings for the first couple of weeks while the roots establish and grow long enough to engage the wicking process. Feed with slowrelease fertiliser.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 71

DO IT

CUSTOM CABIN

Project: shed shape-up

THESE DIY ADDITIONS WILL TRANSFORM A HUMBLE OUTBUILDING Project DEAN HAUSMANN Photography LOUISE ROCHE Styling KYLIE JACKES

DAYBED

Tools & materials n Safety equipment (gloves, mask, ear and eye protection) n Tape measure and pencil n Mitre saw n 8G combination countersinking bit n Drill with driver n 5mm drill bit n Hex 5 bit n Pocket hole jig n Circular saw with straightedge n 600mm spirit level n Handsaw n Cloth n Mini microfibre roller with tray n 22 lineal metres of 70mm x 35mm structural pine• n 8G x 50mm treated pine screws

n 14G x 100mm batten bugle head screws n 8G x 32mm pocket hole screws n Four 2400mm x 1200mm x 19mm structural plywood sheets• n 6G x 15mm countersunk timber screws n 2400mm x 1200mm x 9mm structural plywood sheet•

1 For the frame, from 70mm x 35mm pine, cut four 2395mm rails, 10 supports to 860mm and 12 noggins to 311mm.

Tip: Use a mitre saw, cutting on the offcut side of the marks. Cut one piece as a template to cut the rest, one at a time, which allows for the thickness of the saw blade and ensures they’re the same.

2 To assemble the back frame, position five noggins evenly between two rails, flush with the ends, one in the centre and the others spaced to create 590mm gaps.

Use an 8G combination countersinking bit to pre-drill two holes into each joint and secure through the rails with 50mm pine screws.

Repeat to make the front frame.

4 For the drawers and drawer cavities, from a sheet of 19mm plywood, use a circular saw with straightedge to cut two 311mm strips lengthways to make four 981mm dividers and a 515mm strip to make two 962mm drawer bases.

From another sheet, cut three 301mm strips to make four 981mm drawer sides, two 580mm fronts and two 515mm backs.

5 To create drawer cavities, position the dividers on the centre support, attaching one to either side of the centre noggin and one each to the inside of the second and fourth noggins, pre-drilling and securing into the front and back frames with 50mm screws.

Tip: Use an offcut to position the dividers 19mm back from the frame front so the drawers will close flush.

n Two pairs 800mm heavy-duty drawer slides n 120- and 180-grit abrasive paper with sanding block n Painter’s tape n Water-based enamel paint n Two 96mm timber handles n 910mm x 1880mm x 120mm single mattress with cover and cushions

3

1

5

4

2

7

6

8

9

1 Zenith ‘Type 17’ 14G x 100mm passivated bugle head batten timber screws in Gold, $13/ pack of 25, I/N: 2420553. 2 P&N ‘Quickbit’ 4 piece pilot drill/countersink bit set, $22.95, I/N: 6350008. 3 Dulux ‘Super Enamel’ semi gloss enamel paint in Vivid White, $57.50/1L, I/N: 1402904. 4 Kreg ‘320’ pocket hole jig, $76.90, I/N: 0202875. 5 AEG 1200W 184mm circular saw, $109, I/N: 0088698. 6 Johnson 24" 600mm aluminium box level, $37.98, I/N: 0153112. 7 Prestige 96mm flat wooden handle in Natural Pine, $6, I/N: 4021860. 8 Kreg 11/4" 32mm coarse thread pocket screws, $9.90/pack of 100, I/N: 0202879. 9 Goliath 800mm extra heavy duty drawer slide, $124.50/pair, I/N: 4021070†. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

72 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

Steps photography Kylie Jackes. Project editing Natasha Dickins. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

•Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information. Paint colours may vary on application.

DIY TOOLKIT

Lounging spot with storage

3 Position the back frame against the wall, pre-drill with a 5mm bit and secure into studs with 100mm batten screws and a hex bit.

Position the supports flat between the back and front frames, along the floor and flush with the top rail, centring them to match the noggins. Add a noggin between the supports at either end.

Secure all joints using a pocket hole jig with 32mm screws.

Custom-built drawers keep exercise kit tidied away when not in use

The finished 2490mm x 970mm x 425mm daybed spans the width of the space 6 To make the drawers, use a pocket hole jig and 32mm screws to secure the back against the base, attach the sides, then secure the front with 13.5mm overhang either side. To install the drawer slides, use a level to mark the dividers 140mm up from the floor for runners, and 100mm up from the base of the drawers for the guides, securing with 15mm countersunk timber screws.

7 To clad the front, working widthways on a sheet of 9mm plywood, use a circular saw with straightedge to cut a 35mm x 1180mm panel to position under the drawers. Cut a 342mm strip to make two 587mm drawer faces, then cut 379mm strips to make two 653mm panels and position either side of the drawers. Countersink into the frame and drawers to secure with 50mm screws.

8 To make the top, from 19mm plywood, cut 1075mm x 1833mm and 1075mm x 653mm panels.

Position over the frame, with the join along a support, to mark notches for the wall studs, cutting them with a handsaw.

Reposition panels, countersinking into the frame and securing with 50mm screws. Tip: Adjust the depth of your top to fit if it doesn’t require notching around exposed studs.

9 Smooth all over with 120-grit abrasive paper to remove any breakout, then finish with 180-grit, rounding over the edges and corners slightly.

Wipe away dust with a damp cloth and tape around the walls and inside the drawers. Use a mini microfibre roller to apply two coats of water-based enamel, leaving to dry after each. Fit the drawer handles and add a mattress with cushions. bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 73

FABRIC CEILING Tools & materials

n Safety equipment (gloves, mask, ear and eye protection) n Tape measure and pencil n Scissors n Stepladder n Staple gun n 40mm x 18mm DAR pine offcut• n Utility knife

n n n n n

Handsaw Brad nail gun Canvas drop sheet 8mm staples 12 2400mm lengths 20mm x 12mm pine•

n 180-grit abrasive paper n 25mm brads

DIY TOOLKIT

1

3

2 4 5

1 Wagner 3.65m x 2.74m heavy duty canvas drop sheet, $41.74, I/N: 1660158.

2 Trojan 3 in 1 heavy duty staple gun set, $19.99, I/N: 0217503. 3 Irwin ‘Plus880’ 550mm coated universal handsaw, $24.98, I/N: 0127151. 4 Ryobi ‘Airwave C1 Series’ air brad nailer, $58.98, I/N: 6210563. 5 PowerFit ‘C Series’ 25mm galvanised brad nails, $11.82/pack of 2000, I/N: 6210718. Some products are not available from all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

1 Use scissors to cut a drop sheet into panels to fit the sections of the roof, with about 50mm extra around all sides.

Tip: The size and type of your roof will determine the panels – we quartered a 3650mm x 2740mm sheet, for four panels with ample overhang.

74 bunnings.com.au |

2 To install each panel, with the right side facing the floor, position it against the roof with the edge dropping down along the timber ridge by about 17mm.

Stand on a stepladder to use a staple gun with 8mm staples, tacking along the panel every 50mm, as close to the roof as possible.

bunnings |

bunnings

3 Pull the opposite side of the panel taut against the timber beam above the wall, pushing it up to tack as close as possible to the roof, keeping consistent tension. Repeat for the remaining edges. Tip: To use a staple gun safely, wear eye protection and always press the base flat against the surface before shooting.

4 To remove the excess panel, use a 40mm x 18mm pine offcut as a guide to cut with a utility knife, positioning the narrow side against the beam, with the wide side against the roof.

Tip: This keeps the overhang less than 20mm, which is the width of the framing that will cover the edges.

5 To make the framing, use a handsaw to cut 20mm x 12mm pine to fit into the sections, pressing the narrow side against the roof. Smooth over the cuts with 180-grit abrasive paper, then secure using a brad gun with 25mm brads.

Tip: We used eight 1732mm and 1188mm lengths, butt-joining them at the corners.

SHELVING

Tools & materials

n Safety equipment (gloves, mask, ear and eye protection) n Tape measure and pencil n Mitre saw n Combination square n Drill press with 5mm bit n Circular saw with straightedge n Two quick-grip clamps n Drill with driver bit n 8G combination countersinking bit n Cloth n Paintbrush n Small adjustable wrench

•Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

1

n Scissors n Builder’s square n Eight 3000mm lengths 28.6mm diameter Tasmanian oak dowel•

2 Use a combination square to mark centre lines along the pieces to keep the holes aligned.

On the supports, mark 40mm from the ends. On the rails, mark the centre and 40mm from the ends. On the legs, mark along 40mm, 405mm and 780mm, then make a perpendicular centre line to mark along 69mm, 434mm and 809mm.

Make the holes with a drill press and 5mm bit.

3 Smooth over the dowel pieces with 180-grit abrasive paper to remove breakout and round over the ends.

To make the frames, use 65mm bolts to secure the supports to the legs through the perpendicular holes (starting with the 69mm hole as the top) and the rails along the outside of the frames. Tip: Wind on the nuts firmly, but not tight.

4 For the shelves, use a circular saw with straightedge to cut a sheet of 9mm plywood lengthways into three 370mm-wide strips to make six 750mm shelves.

Smooth over the plywood with 180-grit abrasive paper to remove breakout and round over the edges slightly.

5 Measure 90mm from the end of the rails to centre the shelves flush with the sides, clamping to hold. At the corners, 20mm from the ends, use an 8G combination countersinking bit to pre-drill into the rails. Secure with 25mm screws.

6 Smooth over the shelves to remove breakout from the screws, then wipe away dust with a damp cloth.

Use a brush to apply two coats of clear varnish over the frame and shelves, leaving to dry thoroughly after each.

n 180-grit abrasive paper n 36 M5 x 65mm black nuts and bolts n 2400mm x 1200mm x 9mm structural plywood sheet• n 8G x 25mm countersunk timber screws n Clear varnish n Two 1800mm lengths 4mm cotton cord

DIY TOOLKIT 2

3

1 For the frame, from 28.6mm dowel, cut six 1800mm rails, six 900mm legs and nine 370mm supports. Tip: Use a mitre saw, cutting one piece as a template to cut the rest, one at a time, which allows for the thickness of the saw blade and ensures the pieces are the same.

5 4 7 6

1 Stanley 300mm metric combination square, $31.50, I/N: 5666425. 2 Porta 28.6mm Tasmanian oak dowel, $55.65/3m, I/N: 0080088•. 3 Ozito 500W 16mm drill press, $118, I/N: 0048826. 4 Grunt 4mm x 50m macramé cotton cord, $9, I/N: 0133146. 5 Cabot’s ‘Cabothane Clear’ water based satin polyurethane varnish, $32.20/500ml, I/N: 1522368. 6 Craftright 100mm adjustable wrench, $4.25, I/N: 6110452. 7 Pinnacle M5 x 65mm round head bolts and nuts in Black Ruspert, $2.68/pack of 6, I/N: 0257701.

7 To make diagonal braces, at the end frames, unscrew the top and base rail ends. Knot the cord, then slip the loops over the frames and re-secure the rails. Remove the centre supports to thread through the loops, twisting to tighten and pull the frame into a square, checking with a builder’s square. Reposition the supports and tighten all nuts with a small adjustable wrench.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 75

DESK Tools & materials 19mm DAR pine• n 14 1200mm lengths 42mm x 19mm DAR pine• n 1.8m length 70mm x 35mm structural pine• n 10G x 35mm wafer head timber screws n 10G x 50mm countersunk timber screws n 120- and 180-grit abrasive paper with sanding block n Water-based enamel paint n 100mm timber screws

Chic workstation

Keep in mind...

When buying screws, check you have the matching size and style of bit to drive it correctly, commonly using a Phillips head for most timber screws and a hex bit for batten bugle-head screws.

n

1 Using a mitre saw, from 89mm pine, cut four 1150mm slats for the desktop and four 800mm for the leg. From 42mm pine, cut four 1150mm slats for the desktop and four 800mm for the leg. From 42mm pine, cut two 1130mm top edging and two 780mm leg edging pieces. Cut three 525mm supports from 42mm pine, and three 525mm braces from 70mm x 35mm pine.

76 bunnings.com.au |

2 Set the saw to 45° to mitre one end of each slat, and one end of each edging piece, cutting 3mm in from the corner to allow for the thickness of the blade and keep the full length.

Set the saw to 55° and trim the ends from one brace, measuring 40mm down from one side, at both ends, to cut the corners off. (This is the wall brace that is covered by the edging.)

bunnings |

bunnings

3 Set out the slats, with the mitred ends flush, using a 6mm bit as the spacer. Across the desktop slats, position two supports 390mm from the ends. On the leg slats, position a support across the centre. Check for square, then use a combination bit to countersink through the rails, securing into each slat with 35mm wafer head screws. Tip: Mix up the slat widths to create the same pattern for the desktop and leg.

4 With the desktop upside down, position the leg to match the mitred slats. Centre and clamp a brace along the inside corner, countersinking and pre-drilling to secure through the leg slats with 50mm screws.

Centre and clamp the trimmed wall brace along the end of the desktop, flip the assembly to pre-drill and secure through the desktop slats at both ends. Repeat to centre a brace along the inside base of the leg.

5 Position the edging along both sides of the desk, matching the mitres in the corners.

Use a combination bit to countersink through the edging and into the braces and supports, securing into each slat with 50mm screws.

Repeat to edge the other side of the desk.

•Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

n Safety equipment (gloves, mask, ear and eye protection) n Tape measure and pencil n Mitre saw n 6mm bit n Builder’s square n 10G combination countersinking bit n Two quick-grip clamps n Drill with driver n Cloth n Paintbrush n Spirit level n Eight 1200mm lengths 89mm x

DIY TOOLKIT Keeps Your World Clean

2

1

3

5

Environmentally-friendly, non-toxic, and biodegradable cleaners now available at Bunnings.

4

1 42mm x 19mm standard grade dressed pine timber, $4.70/1.2m, I/N: 8401487•. 2 Irwin ‘Quick Grip’ 300mm mini clamp, $31.98/pack of 2, I/N: 0215574. 3 Empire 400mm steel tradesman square, $25.81, I/N: 5667112.

4 Zenith ‘Type 17’ 10G x 35mm galvanised wafer head timber screws, $11.60/pack of 50, I/N: 2410187.

5 Ozito 8¼" 210mm 1600W compound mitre saw, $99, I/N: 0025645. Some products are not available from all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Carpet Cleaner 750ml Ready to Use

All-Purpose Cleaner Lavender 750ml Ready to Use

6 Smooth over all with 120-grit abrasive paper to remove any breakout, then finish with 180-grit, rounding over the edges and corners slightly.

Wipe away dust with a damp cloth. Use a paintbrush to apply two coats of water-based enamel, dabbing into the gaps between the slats and leaving to dry after each coat.

7 Position the desk against the wall, using a level to check for square. Countersink through the wall brace to secure to the timber wall with 50mm screws.

Use a 6mm bit to pre-drill through the base brace to secure into the floor with two 100mm screws. Tip: We notched our desktop to fit around exposed studs, cutting the brace to fit before securing.

If you don’t have a timber wall, choose 50mm-60mm fasteners to suit the wall type.

Glass Cleaner 4L Concentrate makes 20L of ready to use product.

All-Purpose Cleaner 4L Concentrate makes 20L of ready to use product.

www.simplegreen.com

Whilst most cleaning products can be up to 80% water, De-Solv-it has 100% active ingredients.

desolvit.com.au

DO IT

FLATPACK ALTERATIONS

CUSTOM CUPBOARD

TAILOR STORAGE UNITS FOR A PERSONALISED WARDROBE SOLUTION Project NATASHA DICKINS

F

Photography Cath Muscat, styling Tilly Roberts.

Paint colours may vary on application. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

latpacks are a fast, budget-friendly way to get great storage, and they’re more flexible than you might think. A few clever tweaks can help you fit standard-size units into a non-standard space, making them narrower or shorter to suit. 

After resizing a wardrobe unit, install the supplied rail flanges into the existing holes, measure the distance between, then cut the rail with a hacksaw to fit ABOVE Multistore ‘Pack 6’ 2100mm-2400mm built-in wardrobe package, $986, I/N: 0179428†, and 2400mm x 1801mm-2400mm custom-made VJ panel doors, $877/2 doors, I/N: 0205207†, painted in Porter’s Paints ‘Eggshell Finish’ washable paint in French Green, $87/2L, I/N: 0163034. All other products, stylist’s own.

Some products are not available in all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 79

TOOLS & MATERIALS

DIY TOOLKIT 1

2

3

4 1 Empire ‘True Blue’ 300mm combination square, $32.95, I/N: 5667099. 2 Ryobi ‘One+’ 18V 2.0Ah drill driver kit, $99, I/N: 0029012.

3 Ultra Forstner bit set, $27.90/pack of 5, I/N: 6373522. 4 Makita 185mm 1200W corded circular saw, $119, I/N: 6240318. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

nS afety equipment (mask, eye and ear protection) n Tape measure and pencil n Combination square n Two quick-grip clamps n Circular saw and straight edge n Drill with a set of drill bits n 20mm Forstner bit n Screwdriver n Hammer n Builder’s square n Flatpack unit n 180-grit abrasive paper n Woodworking adhesive

Make a unit narrower

The key to making a flatpack unit fit a slimmer space is to trim all horizontal pieces to be the same width, working from just one side. Re-drill the holes with same-size drill bits, then assemble as normal with the supplied fasteners.

PRO TIP

WORK WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S MARKINGS AND STRAIGHT EDGES AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE

1 Measure the space and subtract the thickness of the vertical side pieces (gables) for the final cut width of all horizontal pieces. We reduced this standard 608mm unit to 520mm wide.

The gables are 17mm thick, so the final width of the horizontals is 486mm.

Tip: Position two smaller pieces to allow for the thickness of the gables and simply mark the cut on the top or base piece.

2 Use a combination square to transfer the cut line along all horizontal pieces, including the top, base, shelves, kickboard and any infills. Tip: Only cut one side of each horizontal piece, working on the side that will be least visible when the unit is installed.

3 Clamp a straight edge (we used a length of pine) to trim with a circular saw, keeping the offcuts. Smooth away any breakout with 180-grit abrasive paper. Tip: To prevent the clamps from obstructing the saw, and to keep the straight edge flat, position the gables under it on either side, moving them from the path of the blade.

4 Transfer the cam holes in the shelf by using the offcuts as templates and marking the centres with a combination square.

Use a 20mm Forstner bit to drill in stages, checking the depth to avoid going right through. Test the cams fit flush and flat.

Tip: If you don’t have a Forstner bit, drill right through the cam pin holes in the gable to secure the shelf from the outside with 40mm screws.

5 Assemble the unit by joining the factory edges of the top, base and shelf to the gable first. Before installing the screws in the remaining gable, use a 3.5mm bit to pre-drill through the existing holes and into the corresponding top and base pieces.

Tip: Use a screwdriver to install cams and cam pins, and a drill for screws.

6 Position the assembled unit on the backing to mark the excess, then cut with a circular saw or handsaw. Flip the unit to be face down to reposition the backing with the laminate side facing in, securing with adhesive and the supplied nails. Tip: Always reinforce flatpack joins with a bead of adhesive along the raw edges before securing.

80 bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings

LEFT We cut down a Multistore 1495mm x 608mm x 430mm storage unit in Crisp White, $241, I/N: 2669940†. Some products are not available in all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Reduce the height

Make a unit shorter

Reduce the width

Steps photography Natasha Dickins. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

ABOVE To move the position of a fixed shelf, simply remake the holes for the supplied fasteners in the gables, then install as normal

“Keep the offcuts to use as templates for re-drilling new holes” Natasha Dickins, DIY specialist

To make a flatpack unit shorter, cut down the vertical sides (gables) by working up from the base, re-drilling the holes, then assemble as normal with the supplied fasteners.

Keep in mind...

When using a drill or circular saw, always wear the recommended protective gear.

n

1 Check the height required, then position the gables together to transfer the measurement, working up from the base and marking across the inside face with a builder’s square. Tip: Cutting from the base keeps the neatly finished laminated edging at the top.

2 Working on a surface large enough to support the gables, clamp a straight edge to make the cuts with a circular saw, keeping the offcuts and smoothing away any breakout with 180-grit abrasive paper.

3 On the offcuts, check which holes attach the base and kickboard (these go right through), and clamp them onto the corresponding gables with the sides and base flush. Drill right through with a 5mm bit.

4 Assemble the unit, then position it on the backing piece to mark and cut to fit.

Reposition the backing with the laminate side facing in, securing with adhesive and the supplied nails.

bunnings.com.au |

bunnings |

bunnings 81

PLANTS

BRIGHT BLOOMS

Summer colour Fill hanging baskets with these stand-out stunners

Calibrachoa

Masses of bell-like flowers in pink, red, purple, yellow or orange cover this trailing perennial in summer.

The blooms resemble mini petunias (a relative) with single or double forms that look fabulous spilling over a basket. It’s a prolific performer, so deadhead regularly.

New Guinea impatiens

Petunia

Calibrachoa

(Calibrachoa x hybrida)

Position in full sun or part shade and feed often with a liquid fertiliser to help boost growth.

New Guinea impatiens

(Impatiens hawkeri)

Flowers come in shades of orange, red, pink, purple and white, above attractive glossy foliage.

One of the best florals for summer colour, with large, trumpet-shaped blooms in vibrant bi-coloured and single forms that can also have ruffled petals. The trailing forms are big and beautiful but, if their display is too extravagant, tone it down by mixing colours or including soft foliage plants like dichondra.

Lobelia

The flowers may be dainty, but what the trailing forms of this annual lack in size, they make up for in display. Purple, lilac, blue or white flowers adorn the plant in summer and cascade over the sides of pots and hanging baskets.

Position in full sun to part shade and remove spent flowers regularly.

bunnings |

(Petunia x hybrida)

Plant in a spot with at least six hours of sunlight; tip prune often to encourage a bushy habit.

FOR MORE PLANTS, VISIT bunnings.com.au/plants

82 bunnings.com.au |

Petunia

bunnings

Lobelia

(Lobelia erinus)

While charming planted as a single specimen, it also complements other summer blooms.

Words Tammy Huynh. Photography (calibrachoa, petunia) Getty Images; (New Guinea impatiens, lobelia) Alamy Stock Photo.

Brighten up shady corners with the vibrant blooms of this perennial.

It grows best in part shade, but avoid the harsh afternoon light.

For spots in full sun, look for the SunPatiens range, which was bred to thrive in such conditions and withstand heat and humidity.

N I W a share of

15,000

$

house e r a W s g Bunnin Gift Cards PLAY OUR

MAKE YOUR GARDEN GROW GAME

Get playing from 1 January til 13 March 2022

popecompetitions.com.au

TRANSFORM YOUR DRIVEWAY FOR SUMMER WITH ULTRA PAVE An easy and cost effective method to help make the ultimate first impression, and add kerb appeal to your home