Bunnings Magazine June 2019

June 2019

YOUR

FREE MAGAZ

INE!

Indoor oasis

CHANNEL YOUR INNER KONDO

USE THE POWER OF PLANTS TO BRING THE OUTSIDE IN

+

BRILLIANT STORAGE IDEAS Ì SORT OUT YOUR SHED Ì 3 PEGBOARD PROJECTS Ì CUSTOMISE YOUR CLOSET

CREATE A PET FRIENDLY GARDEN DREAM IT

Trending: winter whites

PLAN IT

Fit in a home office

UPDATE IT

Wonder wallpaper

FIX IT

Spring-ready shrubs

Ignite the night

Life’s best moments shared outdoors 1 300 793 978 info@fiammetta.com.au fiammetta.com.au

@fiammettaaustralia @fiammettaaustralia

STYLISTE´ RANGE unique, like your imagination

Styliste´ 6, Struktur boxes and Plinth 10

scandiastoves.com.au The Styliste´ by Scandia is the epitome of style and elegance, taking the essence of a traditional radiant wood fire design and elevating it to an entirely new level.

The beautifully crafted Styliste´ range consists of the Styliste´ 6 10 radiant heaters.

Their inspired lineal stance embodies the essence of minimalist design to engage you with it’s clean lines, expansive firebox and captivating flame pattern.

The Styliste´ range provides almost limitless configuration and installation solutions using elements from the Struktur range. Combine your Styliste´ wood fire with our Struktur elements to create a truly personal statement customised by you and tailored to your own individual space.

STYLISTE´ 6 Heats up to 200m2 * * Inbuilt install has reduced heat output of approx. 70m2.

STYLISTE´ 10 Heats up to 300m2 † † Inbuilt install has reduced heat output of approx. 100m2.

STYLISTE´ RANGE 5 Freestanding designs 2 Inbuilt designs

create your own personal design

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Photography Sue Stubbs

Welcome

A word from our editor There’s a trend in home building that has been gaining quite a lot of traction in the past few years. Known as biophilic design, it taps into the general interest in wellness, and aims to connect us more with nature to benefit our overall health and wellbeing.

Despite its fancy name, it isn’t

rocket science. It includes things that anyone can do, such as using natural materials like wood, allowing in plenty of fresh air, admitting lots of natural light and incorporating greenery, indoors and out.

Hopefully you’ll glean masses of inspiration for displaying plants indoors in ‘A new leaf’, from page 14, whether your space allows a handful of herb pots or an olive tree in your hall!

Another way to add to your home’s feel-good factor is to clear the clutter. Check out our budget-friendly custom wardrobe story, ‘Tailor made’, from page 48, have a look at a wonderful wardrobe makeover on page 78, and tackle that black hole of halfforgotten items in ‘De-grunge the garage’, from page 59 – among many other things!

Enjoy the issue!

Jane Parbury

Editor

THE MAGAZINE TEAM Editor Jane Parbury Associate editor Shelley Tustin Art director Bridie Mahoney Chief subeditors Catherine Sanders and Frances Pearson Creative services manager Katharine McKinnon Market editor Matilda Roberts Content coordinator Liam Nethery Contributors Carol Baldas, Sandra Bickerton, Victoria Kingsbury, Judie Siu

National advertising manager Daniel Hennessey (03) 9292 2521 Victoria advertising manager Kristina Frohlich (03) 9292 2273 NSW account manager Aleksandar Jovanoski (02) 8114 8955 National sales coordinator Claire Wischusen (03) 9292 2297 General enquiries bunningsmag@bunnings.com.au (03) 8831 9777

Managing director Gerard Reynolds Executive general manager Sally Wright Chief operating officer Fiorella di Santo Chief content officer Margaret Merten Digital strategy director Karla Courtney Social strategy director Scott Drummond Finance manager Alvin Largado 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.

Hidden gems Bright spark

You can bend this flexible five-metre LED neon light into pretty well any shape you want. Put your name in lights!

Lytworx neon flex LED light in White, $29.99, I/N: 4352461

Deal with damp

Winter means muggy bathrooms, so a fan is a must. Go for a module that does double duty with a fan and energy-saving LED lights in one.

IXL ‘Tastic Neo Vent N Lite’ module bathroom fan and light in White, $357, I/N: 4441993

Vac to basics

Fast-forward your chores with this handy suction tool that cleans windows, mirrors and tiles in a flash for a perfect streak-free finish.

Karcher WV2 premium window vacuum in Black, $119, I/N: 0111141

Rug up

Snuggle up with a soft throw when the chill sets in. This cosy design, made from recycled cotton in six on-trend shades, gets our vote!

Smart Home Products 120cm x 160cm throw rug in Lecce, $11.98, I/N: 0086768

Warm welcome Greet your guests at the front door with a pop of colour while keeping those muddy messes on the outside. Hello, clean floors!

Madras Link ‘Hello’ 45cm x 75cm vinyl backed outdoor mat, $18.62, I/N: 4490430

Published by Medium Rare Content Agency Pty Ltd. ABN 83 169 879 921, Upper Ground Suite 58, 26-32 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 for Bunnings Warehouse, ABN 26 008 672 179, 16-18 Cato Street, Hawthorn East, Victoria 3123. © 2019 All rights reserved.

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.

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.

Printed by Ovato Print Ltd. Paper fibre is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources.

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Contents June 2019

11 14 22 24

29 30 34

38

DREAM IT

42

WHITE ON WHITE Bring blanc magic to your interiors – it’s pale but interesting A NEW LEAF Indoor plants provide lush colour and calm in any room of the house WELCOME HOME Simple changes transform a bland hallway into an inviting entry HOW TO GO PET FRIENDLY Grow a garden that will keep your two- and four-legged family members happy and healthy

PLAN IT

UPDATE IT

BIJOU BATHROOMS Smart ways to fit essentials, plus a little luxury, into a small space |

48 52

54

FINDING A BUILDER It’s well worth taking the time to choose the right contractor INTO THE BLUE Take the plunge and go bold with deep and dramatic shades of blue WORK IT Even small spaces can become stylish and functional home offices

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59 62 66 69

CHORE LEAVE A dishwasher will update your kitchen in a most practical way OFF THE WALL Bring vertical surfaces to life with easy-hang wallpapers in a fabulous range of textures and designs TAILOR MADE Kitchen cabinetry installed in a bedroom makes a chic wardrobe CLOSET CLEAR-OUT Try these tips to minimise clutter and maximise storage

FIX IT

THE DIY BEGINNER’S TOOLKIT New to DIY? Find out which basics you’ll need in your workshop DE-GRUNGE THE GARAGE A little TLC turns a neglected area into a neat and organised space COUNTER CULTURE A buyer’s guide to the most-used surface – the kitchen bench A CUT ABOVE Winter pruning will improve your plants and help them flourish WHAT GOES AROUND The lowdown on recycling – plus how to cut your household waste

11

72 76 78 81

05 09 82

MAKE IT

PEGBOARD, THREE WAYS Use this versatile material in a trio of home and garage organisers ENTRY LEVEL Construct a practical shelf to enhance an entrance area BEST ON SHOW An old wardrobe is revived as a stunning and useful cabinet TALL STORY Keep track of your littlies’ growth with this fun DIY project

REGULARS

A WORD FROM OUR EDITOR Which products inspired the editor?

CALENDAR What’s on, and what to do, in June RAVISHING ROSES These beautiful and fragrant blooms are a garden favourite

All your plants need is

Lovoec&ote m s O

ScottsÂŽ is a trademark of OMS Investments Inc and is used under licence from OMS Investments Inc.

www.osmocote.com.au

9

Winter is the perfect time to stay in and tackle your overflowing closet (read our wardrobe stories on pages 48 and 52), and roll up your sleeves to banish clutter from the garage (see page 59 for tips).

Calendar

Scandia deluxe fire tool set, $114.50, I/N: 3180728

JUNE SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI 1

Discover what you should be doing in your garden with the Garden Diaries from Bunnings, which go live on the first of each month. You’ll find great tips and advice, plus ideas on what to plant for each state.

Visit bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/garden/garden-diary.

2

3

9

4

10 Queen’s birthday 11 (except Qld and WA)

16

Photography (corgi) Alamy Stock Photo, (hellebore, calculator and notebook) Getty Images

23

The long weekend is a great time to knock17 off those winter gardening chores. Plan your pruning (see page 66 for tips), plant some winter vegies and add some cold-season colour to the garden, like these lovely hellebores, which 24 winter roses. are often called

5

6

World Environment Day This is a great time to take stock and consider what more we can do to green up our everyday lives. Are you recycling everything you could be? Read our recycling story on page 69 to find out.

12

SAT

First day of winter Winter is here, and it’s time to make sure your home can shelter you from the chill.

Check for draughts, cover windows with blinds or drapes and keep your heater on standby for cold nights.

7

Decofire ‘Mission’ log holder with log tote, $79, I/N: 3171284

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20

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Morgan stainless steel twin compartment pedal bin, $39, I/N: 4520054

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25

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Tax time Get organised for the end of the financial year – carve 29 out an office space at home (turn to page 34 for tips) or revamp your existing work space with a pegboard organiser (see our easy make on page 72).

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

30 Helleborus ‘Tutu’ 175mm plant

Connect with us Share your DIY creations with us or get inspiration for your next project. Use the hashtag #Bunningsmag instagram.com/bunnings

youtube.com/bunningswarehouse

pinterest.com.au/bunningsau

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Š2019 Energizer. Energizer, the Energizer Character design, and certain graphic designs are trademarks of Energizer Brands, LLC and related subsidiaries.

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Dream it

1

Work the trend

3

Marble mosaics add subtle colour variations

Try it

2

4

White on white

Create a luxe feel in any room using fresh, crisp shades of this perennially popular hue in a matt or gloss finish

5

9 8

6 7 10 Soft furnishings like a throw rug are an easy way to play with texture and tone

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1 Brilliant ‘Clyde’ LED pendant light in White, $142, I/N: 7071340. 2 Mercator ‘Cordette’ sphere pendant in White, $93.50, I/N: 7071645. 3 Decor8 Tiles ‘Florentine’ 300mm x 300mm x 10mm marble tile mosaic in White, $23.25, I/N: 6661038. 4 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ 2 x 4 compact storage unit in White, $34.90, I/N: 2582948.

5 Blanco ‘Naya’ 8 S sink in White, $1,060, I/N: 5090383. 6 Tusk Living ‘Arc’ cafe chair in White, $79, I/N: 0019619. 7 Sandleford ‘Nuvue’ 1220mm x 1220mm x 380mm raised garden bed in White, $102, I/N: 0067497. 8 Superfresco Easy ‘Bellagio’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in White, $64.70, I/N: 1662665. 9 Caroma WELS 4 star 7.5L/min twin sink mixer tap in White, $159, I/N: 5004394. 10 Smart Home Products 120cm x 160cm throw rug in Grenada, $11.98, I/N: 0086769. 11 Methven WELS 3 star 9L/min square overhead shower in White, $219, I/N: 0056977. 12 Mondella ‘Rumba’ 1500mm x 700mm x 580mm freestanding bath in White, $898, I/N: 4822230. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.  bunnings

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Try it

Dream it

Floating shelves are a functional focal point

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Black accents create dramatic impact in an all-white kitchen

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13 Tarkett 8mm 2.565sqm painted laminate flooring in White, $81.82, I/N: 6690191. 14 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ wall mount storage unit in White, $39.98, I/N: 2580877.

15 HPM Calla LED step light in White, $59, I/N: 4320689. 16 Whites ‘Grip And Grow’ 191cm x 97cm decorative arch plant trainer, $99, I/N: 3042327. 17 Tuscan Path 33cm gnome garden statue in White, $18.50, I/N: 2801030. 18 Home Design ‘Dondo’ 21.5cm 240V single pendant lights, $167 each, I/N: 7071866. 19 Sandleford 85mm plastic numeral 2 in White, $4.62, I/N: 3290860, and numeral 8 in White, $4.62, I/N: 3290890. 20 Tuscan Path ‘Aztec’ 1kg 38mm-40mm pebbles in Moroccan White, $8.98, I/N: 3460140. 21 Cibo Design ‘Glee’ vanity with basin in White (tapware sold separately), $998, I/N: 4844363. 22 Gainsborough small classic door knob in White with Bright Chrome, $13.96, I/N: 4062125. 23 Tuscan Path 18cm x 13cm squat round glazed pot in White, $14.25, I/N: 2801144. 24 Northcote Pottery ‘Maxim’ 42cm x 36cm Precinct Lite drum planter in White, $62.20, I/N: 2930031. 25 Johnson Tiles 260mm x 300mm gloss hexagon ceramic wall tile in White, $42.74/carton of 16, I/N: 6661794.

26 Northcote Pottery ‘Omni’ 28cm Precinct Lite small bowl in White, $19.70, I/N: 2832580. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. u bunnings.com.au

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leaf

Bring the outside in with layers of lush indoor plants in all shapes and sizes

E

Potted greenery brings interest and colour to interiors Above, from left: Fern in Northcote Pottery ‘Primo’ 35cm mod egg glazed pot in Cream, $36.25, I/N: 2830108. Chervil in Northcote Pottery 15cm Italian terracotta cylinder pot in Greige, $7.49, I/N: 0044329. Devil’s ivy in Scheurich ‘Sado’ 24cm x 18cm ceramic pot in Cream, $33.95, I/N: 2891442. String of beans Senecio radicans. Opposite page: Bayliss 155cm x 225cm Denmark pile 100 per cent wool rug in Beige, $257, I/N: 6810206. Plants, from left: Mature olive tree in ‘Nell’ large basket, Freedom, freedom.com.au.

Pompoms; turn the page for instructions. Boston fern Nephrolepis exaltata. Peace lily Spathiuphyllum hybrid. Mother-in-law’s tongue Sansevieria laurentii trifasciata in Tuscan Path ‘Ivy’ 22cm x 19cm fibreglass pot in Black, $20.40, I/N: 0044407. Lady palm Rhapis excelsa in basket, Kmart, kmart.com.au. Boston fern Nephrolepis exaltata.

Devil’s ivy, as before. Chervil, as before. Prayer plant Calathea in Tuscan Path 320mm round poly rattan planter in Honey Blonde, $24.89, I/N: 2941761. Lady palm Rhapis excelsa in ‘Lorne’ basket, Freedom. On coffee table: Chinese money plant Pilea peperomioides. 2 cane lucky bamboo Dracaena sanderiana. UN-REAL 21cm artificial yucca in grey pot, $5.90, I/N: 0045899. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.  bunnings.com.au

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Photography Sue Stubbs, stylist Kerrie-Ann Jones, styling assistants Tilly Roberts, Eve Dubourdieu

A new

very interior stylist’s favourite cheat for a fully resolved room or display is to add green. Potted plants give a room warmth and a layered, lived-in look, particularly in sterile and neutral spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms.

They are incredibly versatile.

Play with the full spectrum of foliage shades from dusty greens to vibrant, variegated leaves, introduce movement with delicate, frondy ferns or rustling palms, and experiment with size and placement, from hanging planters and clusters of pots to statement trees and shrubs.

15

Dream it Indoor plant inspiration

Try it

A new trend is to use trees normally grown outside, such as an olive tree, to style your interiors.

Place close to a window for light, and water regularly.

If you prefer, leave them sitting on a pot trolley for easy wheeling outside as required

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Tip You can keep these cute pots indoors or place them outside, as the paint is designed for exterior use

Herb pots What you need  Fine craft paintbrush  Cabot’s Timbercolour deck & exterior paint in White  Terracotta pots in various sizes  Various herbs

Pompoms What you need  Cardboard  Balls of wool  Scissors  Double-sided sticky tape Method Cut two circles of card to the

preferred size of your pompom and snip a 2.5cm hole in each.

Holding the card circles together, wind the wool round the card, passing the wool through the central hole, until the wool covers the card thickly. Insert the point of the scissors between the card circles and snip carefully all around. Ease the circles slightly apart, and knot a strand of wool tightly around the centre. Pull off the card circles and fluff to make a ball. Use double-sided sticky tape to attach to your pot or basket.

Opposite page: On tray: Thyme in Northcote Pottery 11cm terracotta squat pot, $1.35, I/N: 2863583, and 110mm terracotta saucer, $1.49, I/N: 2863460. Mint in Northcote Pottery 16cm Italian terracotta pot, $1.95, I/N: 2835057, and 130mm terracotta saucer, $1.50, I/N: 2863478. Basil in Northcote Pottery 12cm Italian terracotta pot, $1.45, I/N: 2833746, and 110mm saucer, as before. Oregano in 12cm pot and 110mm saucer, as before. Rosemary in 16cm pot and 130mm saucer, as before. In background: Croton Codiaeum variegatum. White stools, Kmart, kmart.com.au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Method Paint the name of the herb on the pot in a calligraphy style, then add a fun design around it. Leave to air-dry in a warm, dry place. Once the paint is dry, plant the herbs in the pots and arrange on a tray, ready for use.

Shopping 1

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5 1 Renoir size 0 nylon round craft paintbrush, $1.37, I/N: 1660204.

2 Rosemary. 3 Cabot’s Timbercolour deck & exterior paint in White, $14/500ml, I/N: 1520553. 4 Northcote Pottery 12cm Italian terracotta pot, $1.45, I/N: 2833746. 5 25cm red clay terracotta pot, $3.99, I/N: 2831898. 

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Choose herbs that suit your style of cooking for a display that’s as practical as it is pretty

Dream it

18

Window of opportunity

What you plant outdoors can make a big impact on the inside. Consider the areas your windows overlook and choose plants to suit. The right picks will create an attractive display and preserve privacy while still letting in plenty of light. Evergreens are ideal, as they won’t lose their leaves or look drab and uninspiring in winter.

Try it

Group pots in varying sizes and heights to create an interesting display of greenery, or place plants from the same family together, such as a cluster of citrus, to create a cohesive look

Above, left (from left): String of beans Senecio radicans. Devil’s ivy in Northcote Pottery ‘Villa’ 250mm plastic hanging basket in Graphite, $7.75, I/N: 2891369. Boston fern Nephrolepis exaltata in Yates ‘Tuscan’ 250mm plastic hanging basket in Sandstone, $12.55, I/N: 3000292. Fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata.

Opposite page, from left: Mature cumquat tree in Tuscan Path 45cm x 38cm stone art egg pot in Grey, $70.98, I/N: 0044430. Mature lime tree in Tuscan Path 38cm x 33cm stone art egg pot in Black, $45, I/N: 0044421, on Wagner 28cm terracotta pot trolley, $23.98, I/N: 2871149. Mature olive tree in Northcote Pottery ‘Cafestyle’ 50cm x 43cm terracotta egg pot in Antique White, $55.45, I/N: 2860509. Lemon tree in Tuscan Path ‘Galaxy’ 19cm x 17cm pot in Grey, $15.55, I/N: 2833480, on Lotus Collection 25cm x 30cm metal plant stand in Black, $7, I/N: 2801019. Stools, Kmart, kmart.com.au.

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1 Echeveria in Tuscan Path ‘Ivy’ 22cm x 19cm fibreglass pot in Charcoal, $20.40, I/N: 0044409. 2 Bonsai plant. 3 Cactus in Scheurich ‘Sado’ 24cm x 18cm ceramic pot in Cream, $33.95, I/N: 2891442. 4 Orchid phalaenopsis. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. 

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Dream it

Try it

Citrus and Mediterranean plants are another hot plant trend. Pick ripe fruit with stems and leaves still attached and display in a beautiful bowl for added decorative interest

20

Dream it

Leafy indoor plants complement natural finishes such as wood and marble

Take a stand 1 2

3

Indoor/outdoor flow 1 Wagner 30cm round decor pot trolley in Beech, $29.98, I/N: 2871151. 2 Wagner 35cm round pot trolley in Raw Beech, $22.98, I/N: 2871148. 3 HomeLeisure 300mm floor saver plant stand in Black, $7.95, I/N: 2891384. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Using an arrangement of potted plants indoors to mirror greenery outside will create a sense of continuity between the zones. Choose a variety of sizes and types of foliage for maximum impact. Âż Climbing plants deliver a green screen outside a window and can hide an ugly view

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Download the Richgro App:

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22 Characterful additions – all made on a tight budget – have given this hallway a sparkling, modern look

Before

Welcome home

Small updates have had a huge impact on this hallway, bringing warmth to a starkly modern space

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Come inside The deep, almost-black paint shade, Baltica by Dulux, features throughout the home, so Ange looked no further when she decided to paint the front door and frame, which were previously a rather orange shade of timber. A cute doormat and a sculptural cactus complete the newly inviting picture.

“I wanted to make the area us. Simple changes – like repainting the front door and updating the recessed areas – personalised and made a welcoming entry” Ange home owner

Words Shelley Tustin. Photography Sue Stubbs, stylist Tilly Roberts.

Paint colours may vary on application

I

mposing your style on a home can be a challenge – particularly without a necessary renovation as an excuse to redesign. It’s a challenge Ange Sibley of Ever So Homely (eversohomely.com.au) has tackled with her own home – an almost-new build purchased two years ago.

Buying this home was a snap decision, made when the family had to move out of their rental while Ange was pregnant.

“The house ticked most of the boxes, except for a few feature colours and areas,” she says. “The front of the house and entry had a disconnect to the rest of the house, as we had already done some work to the other areas. This area really needed a facelift so it flowed through.”

The focus of Ange’s energies has been on cosmetic tweaks and clever styling – without blowing the budget on big changes – but the result reflects Ange’s own style and creates a warm and welcoming space.

23

Dream it Hallway makeover

Niche style Ange wanted to add texture and a bit of black to the recesses to echo the dark accents elsewhere.

She achieved this with a timber frame – simply straight-cut pine, screwed into place and painted in Dulux Baltica. Rhipsalis in hanging planters finished the look. “I wanted the plants to look like they were hanging in midair,” she says. Suspending the planters also solves the problem of the narrow shelf, which is too thin to hold a pot. u

Table manners With room to play with in the foyer, Ange wanted to add a table or shelf. The aim was to create a drop zone to manage clutter and to create a sense of welcome. “When you walk into someone’s home, you immediately want to know, ‘Where do I put my bag?’

Here, they can sit down and take off their shoes, put their keys down if they want to,” she says. The shelf was a weekend DIY project (see page 76 for instructions) and is the perfect spot for keys and coins. Planters with mother-in-law’s tongue, peace lily and philodendron add a fresh touch of greenery.

Shop the look 5

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1 Tuscan Path 320mm round poly rattan planter in Honey Blonde, $24.89, I/N: 2941761. 2 Eden 28cm premium cache self watering plastic pot in White, $32.98, I/N: 2940423. 3 Scheurich ‘Vander’ 17cm x 15cm pot in Black, $15.35, I/N: 0018960. 4 Bayliss ‘Cortina’ 155cm x 225cm wool rug, $269, I/N: 0045234. 5 Wet by Home Design 70cm hanging round mirror in Black, $79, I/N: 1730215. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

A hook shelf at the front door is ideal for shopping bags

24

Dream it Pet-friendly garden

How to go pet friendly It’s easy to create a safe haven for all your four-legged friends. Here’s how to craft an outdoor space that works for the whole household

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rowing a garden that appeals to everyone in the family means you’ll need to take the household menagerie into consideration, too. With some research and a bit of careful planning, you can make an outdoor zone that will keep your pets safe and happy, and be a sensory pleasure for the two-legged members of the family as well.

Look at the basics

A pet-friendly garden requires shelter, shade, security, plenty of water, an exercise area for your pet and secure fencing with no potential escape routes. “Position your pet’s shelter somewhere dry, in half shade, half sun, off the ground and sheltered from direct sun, wind and rain,” says Dr Leigh Davidson from Your Vet Online.

Large shrubs, trees or garden

Words Caroline Zambrano. Photography Gap Photos/Clive Nichols, (opposite page, guinea pig) iStock, cat netting from catnets.com.au, (rabbit) TI Media

Pets love an outdoor play area, but make sure it’s secure with the right fencing

Keep furry explorers safe and entertained with perches, netting and climbing frames

Consider replacing a dug-up lawn with pet-friendly synthetic turf. Available in various pile depths and shades, it’s realistic, low-maintenance, won’t stain, smell or become muddy – and feels good under feet and paws! umbrellas can also provide shelter, while a shallow paddling pool can help to cool your dog in hot weather.

To keep your cat safe – not to mention the local wildlife – consider building a cat enclosure or installing cat-proof fencing. Include places for your prowling feline to hide, such as large pots, and places for climbing and perching on up high, where she can survey her territory and bask in the sun.

Play is also important.

Cats can be entertained with hanging toys and scratching posts made of recycled tree limbs. Plant areas where your cat can snoop, prowl and shelter from the summer sun.

Angie Thomas, horticulture consultant to Yates, suggests building an outdoor playpen for smaller pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs. “But never leave them unsupervised,” she adds. “Sit next to them with a cup of tea, as they can be a target for potential predators, such as cats, foxes and dogs.”

Danger zone

Veterinarian Leigh is no stranger to calls from pet owners worried their pet has been poisoned by a plant or chemical in the garden. “With pets increasingly becoming a part of the family, it’s important to know how to make our gardens safe for our companion animals,” she says.

“Garden pebbles can spell disaster for dogs that like to play with them,” says Leigh.

“They could break a tooth or swallow them whole and get a blockage that may require surgery. Compost and grass clippings can grow poisonous mycotoxins. Fertilisers, rat and snail bait and sprays can also all cause serious pet poisoning.”

If you use snail or slug pellets, place them in traps that are not accessible by pets or children, and consider natural remedies, such as natural insecticide or copper tape. “Grow a variety of flowering plants in the garden to attract beneficial insects, which can help reduce pests,” suggests Angie. 

Be aware of fertilisers, baits and pest control, and ensure they’re not accessible to pets

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Dream it

Large, leafy shrubs create plenty of shade to keep pets cool in the summer months

Watch your water features.

If you have a pond, place wire mesh over the top to prevent small pets falling in, or install a ramp as an escape route.

Also watch for exposed electrical cords, which dogs might be tempted to chew on.

Pet peeves

Man’s best friend is not always the most helpful garden companion, but a little careful planning can minimise the damage. Does your dog wear a trail as he runs the perimeter, or frequently crush the flowers on a narrow garden path?

Simple steps, like keeping pots out of the play zone and planting weeping trees (with flexible branches that can be pushed out of the way without breaking) will help.

A digging dog is the bane of many gardeners. “The best way to minimise digging damage to

Must-avoid plants

Brunfelsia (Yesterday Today Tomorrow shrub)

Lily (including peace lily)

Spring flowering bulbs – daffodils and hyacinths

Tradescantia

Cyclamen

Kalanchoe

Lily of the Valley

Oleander

Sago palm

Plants with seeds (avocado, macadamia, white cedar, cape lilac tree)

For more on poisonous plants, visit yourvetonline.com or rspca.org.au

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Photography (top) Gap Photos/Friedrich Strauss, (bottom) all Alamy, (opposite page) Getty Images

“What may be safe or toxic to your dog may have the opposite reaction in your cat,” says Leigh. Most hazardous plants will be labelled as such, but ask an expert at the nursery if you’re unsure. Most plants will only cause a mild reaction, but the most dangerous include:

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Some simple training can prevent energetic dogs from destroying lush green lawns

the yard is to train your pet to have good garden behaviour,” says Leigh Davidson. “Avoid punishment and focus on redirecting the behaviour when you see it, such as getting your dog to sit, high five, roll over or play fetch to distract from the action of digging.”

You also need to understand why your dog is creating a mess – is he digging because he is bored, lonely or anxious?

To discourage digging, use hidden treats and toys to direct your dog to a sandpit, or hide food around the garden for pets to find. “Sniffing is great exercise and entertainment for dogs,” says Leigh. “When leaving dogs for the day, keep them entertained by measuring out a portion of their daily food allowance and sprinkle this around the garden.”

Dog wee can also cause damage to your lawn, as urine is rich in nitrogen, which burns the grass; try putting Dog Rocks in your dog’s drinking

Watch it!

Learn how to build this custom dog bed with a sliding feeding station: bunnings.com.au/ makeadogbed

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water, which filters the water and removes the nitrates in it.

“Training your dog to wee in a certain area of the yard is a great option,” says Angie. Try placing pheromone-treated ‘pee posts’ in your garden to encourage weeing in the exact spot you want them to.

To keep your hungry bunny or guinea pig out of your vegie or flower bed, look at using pots, hanging baskets or raised beds made of planks of chemical-free, untreated pine or scrap wood. To section off the garden that needs protecting, you can also try using railway sleepers, rocks, fencing, a row of plants or a roll of wire as edgings.

Digging (and chewing) is a normal and instinctive behaviour for rabbits, so it’s best to monitor their play sessions outdoors, allow a designated outdoor area for them to dig, or consider laying down some grass mats to curb the urge. ◆

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1 Hakuna Pets medium deluxe aluminium pet door in Black, $99, I/N: 0028435.

2 Fido & Fletch medium pet bed, $49.96, I/N: 3440236. 3 Yale wireless pet PIR (passive infra-red) sensor $65, I/N: 0088723. 4 Hakuna Pets small super tough pet door in White, $43, I/N: 3961860. 5 LazyPets 87cm x 92cm x 86.6cm large dog home, $98, I/N: 0013550. 6 Pinnacle 1000mm x 620mm x 525mm pet lodge animal enclosure, $59, I/N: 3440173. 7 Hakuna Pets timber extra-wide expanding pet barrier, $50, I/N: 3961935. 8 The Pet Gazebo 0.9m portable pet gazebo with canopy, $199, I/N: 0104036. 9 Maze pet waste composting microbes, $29, I/N: 3160058. 10 Tuff Turf ‘K9’ 1m x 4m x 25mm pile synthetic turf, $138, I/N: 0077702. 11 Pinnacle 840mm x 1009mm x 850mm pet fort dog kennel, $139, I/N: 3440169. 12 Tumbleweed pet poo worm farm, $189, I/N: 3160035. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Plan it Choosing contractors

Finding a builder Getting the best person for the job can mean the difference between a dream build and a problematic project

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hether you’re building a new home or embarking on a renovation, it’s important to put in the legwork to find a professional builder. Housing Industry Association (HIA) director of building Simon Croft recommends you take time to research your options and ask a lot of questions.

“The more information you have, the easier it is to eliminate uncertainties,” he explains.

Credit Words here Kylie name Jackes. here Photography Getty Images

Where to look Online is a great place to start researching.

Company websites, industry associations such as HIA and Master Builders, and building award sites can generate names of quality contractors to approach. Builder Rachael Turner (@frontporchproperties) suggests social media as another tool.

“For example, search #brisbanebuilder and you’ll bring up a list of builders whose portfolios you can browse,” she says. The best method, though, is often word of mouth. If you’re engaging an architect, ask for builder recommendations, and tap into friends, family and colleagues to share the names of contractors they’ve used.

Who to pick “Pick the right builder for the type of job, who’s an expert in their field,” advises James Bawden, builder and consultant at The Reno Coach. “If you’re renovating a Victorian-style home, look for a builder who’s worked on similar projects. Or, if you’re starting from scratch, look at new-home specialists and visit their previous jobs.”

Check the quality of the construction, finishing touches and try to chat with the home owners. Ask your prospective builder for contact details of previous clients so you can check references. Try to include

Contract terms people who had work completed more than a few years ago to see how the builder handled any follow-up problems.

What to ask Good communication is crucial for a great working relationship. “When you meet a builder, you want someone you click with, trust and can openly discuss every aspect, from the budget to finishes,” says Rachael.

“Discuss your expectations and ask the builder how they prefer to work. I like to manage the process from design through to completion, while other builders like to come on board once the plans are finalised and approved.” Availability is also key. “Ask how many other projects the builder has on, to check if they’re available when you’re ready to commence,” says Simon.

A builder or contractor should be suitably licensed and insured for the work. Ask to see their licence, or go online and search the relevant state or territory building authority directory for their registration details.

Builder’s contract All building work over a certain amount, including labour and materials, requires a contract, but regulations vary between states and depending on project cost.

Get clued up on the difference between a fixed price and cost-plus contract. “With a fixed price, an agreed project cost is set

Prime cost (PC): When a fixture or fitting has not been selected at the time of the contract, a PC figure is used. If the item chosen ends up more expensive, the client pays extra; if it’s less they receive a credit.

Provisional sum: In a fixed price contract, this is an estimated sum for an item of material and labour, where the builder cannot give an exact figure. This allows the contract to move forward, with the sum modified when costs are confirmed.

A variation: This is an alteration to the scope or type of work in a contract. It may be an addition, substitution or omission. As this can lead to an increase in cost, it’s important to communicate with your builder, discuss changes as soon as possible and get everything in writing. and the contractor is paid a lump sum on completion – popular for new builds,” says Rachael. “A cost-plus contract generally allows greater freedom to make decisions and choose finishes along the way, as the contractor will invoice for labour, material costs and builder’s margin throughout the process. This is beneficial for renovations, where there are more unknowns. But if finance is required it can be more difficult to get a loan without a fixed cost.” ¿

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Plan it Decorating with colour

Into the blue

Dive into a sea of beautiful deep blues – navy and indigo, ink and cobalt – for a look that’s both tranquil and sophisticated bunnings.com.au

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F Words Kylie Jackes. Photography (top) Mike Baker, stylist Bree Leech; (bottom) Taubmans, (opposite page) photography Cath Muscat, stylist Tilly Roberts. Paint colours may vary on application

rom the serenity of a turquoise ocean to the blissful impact of cloudless skies on a sunny day, blue is a colour that inspires a feeling of calm. Deep shades of inky blue imbue a space with the same feeling of tranquillity, yet with an edge of sophistication, a powerful richness and intensity. To enjoy its feel-good benefits and refined style at home, take the plunge and go bold.

Why we love it Effortlessly chic, timeless and incredibly versatile, dark blue may just be the new black. “There are so many colours that work well with deep and dark blues,” says Dulux colour expert Andrea Lucena-Orr. Navy, with its strong ocean connection, is also a hue synonymous with smart, tailored sophistication, making it the go-to accent for Hamptons-style

homes – think preppy blue-and-white nautical stripes and classic coastal styling. “Blue reminds us of relaxing carefree holidays by the water, whether it’s staying at a beach house or boating, so it’s a colour many people are drawn to using in their home,” explains interior designer Angela Marks (interiorsolutionsbrisbane.com). While navy can feel quite formal, it’s equally at home with more laidback, eclectic or boho interiors. To illustrate, think of indigo, which features heavily in shibori textiles, denim and patterned ceramics. Whatever interior look you covet, there’s always a blue to suit. 

Taubmans Black Flame ➜ Blue heaven Background: BC Plywood 900mm x 600mm x 7mm project panel, $14.50, I/N: 0390152, painted in Taubmans Deep Ocean.

From left: Colorbond Steel XRW ‘S-Rib’ corrugated 0.42 BMT steel roofing in Deep Ocean, $15.48/lineal metre, I/N: 1140731.

Hortico 1.5L plastic watering can in Blue, $6.69, I/N: 3110554.

Boyle balsa wood assorted craft pack, $18.25, I/N: 1660729, painted in Taubmans Elegant Evening and Deep Ocean. Wet

by Home Design ‘Linea’ tumbler in Blue, $9, I/N: 5230392.

Bossweld ‘X-Sight Series’ spare lens, $11.48/pack of 5 outer and 2 inner, I/N: 6380069. Magic Stop 60cm non slip matting in Navy, $5.50, I/N: 6650196. Mandala Art mini mosaic glass tiles in Blue Lagoon, $8.48/pack of 175, I/N: 1875985. Kinetic 20mm brass premium jumper meter tap valve in Blue, $5.69, I/N: 4920174. Paint pots: Taubmans Deep Ocean and Elegant Evening. Hansen 140mm threaded float in Blue, $8.70, I/N: 0078281. Northcote Pottery ‘Glazed Look’ 250mm saucer in Marine, $10.48, I/N: 2833123. Roberts 63mm x 18.28m rug gripper roll, $30.80, I/N: 6670604. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Play with two-toned to break up large swathes of colour. Wall in Dulux Man Friday, above gold Gnu Tan. Other wall in Dulux Suede Effect in Alpine Mist

Mustard yellow is best friends with navy

PRO TIP Navy accessories can enhance an all-white space and create a feeling of tranquillity

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Dramatic backdrop Deep blue is a great all-rounder and works equally well inside and out. “As a feature colour in a courtyard, dark blues can create a cooler feeling on a hot day and highlight beautiful greenery,” says Andrea Lucena-Orr. With its tranquil meditative qualities, blue is also at home in living spaces and bedrooms, where it can feel serene and cocooning. “Whether you paint all your bedroom walls, or just a single wall behind the bed, it can create a moody ambience, which is conducive to rest and relaxation,” adds Andrea.

Shades of navy can also add mood and depth to a bathroom, particularly when paired with white tiles, trims, fixtures and plantation shutters. “This classic blue and white combination creates a look that is both elegant and functional,” says Angela Marks.

Dark shades of blue are also trending in kitchens, with more people keen to look beyond safe neutrals and experiment with coloured finishes. Navy blue

Complement navy with light surfaces and keep it warm with layers of texture and natural materials; Kaboodle kitchen cabinets in Bluepea

Break up an expanse of dark base cabinetry with white wall cupboards to prevent the look from feeling too overpowering

cabinetry is surprisingly versatile; pair it with a patterned tile or subway splashback for a modern farmhouse or coastal look, or turn up the luxe factor and complement the dark hue with marble-look or stone benchtops and touches of brass or copper.

A splashback panel provides art and colour. Bellessi Motiv Polymer bathroom panel in Manhattan Blues

Blue illusion Darker palettes can make a space feel smaller, so carefully consider room size and the effect you want to create. In some areas of the house, a cocooning feel may be just what you’re after – an insulated space where you can curl up with a book or enjoy a sleep-in. “Painting a room in a colour that has a navy or black undertone is a great way to create a soothing environment,” says Taubmans DIY and renovation expert Cherie Barber, who suggests Taubmans Midnight Navy and Admiral Blue. Just keep in mind that if there’s not enough light or contrast in a room, you can run the risk of a dense, gloomy atmosphere. To lighten the mood and create balance, Cherie suggests offsetting a deep blue with natural timber and rattan furniture, layered styling and a pop of contrast for a warm, inviting feel. For winter, think sheepskins and metallic accessories.

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Choosing a shade Blues tend to work better with cooler whites and neutrals, so when selecting the perfect shade of blue it’s important to consider how it will sit with existing furnishings, flooring and surfaces. The best way to get a feel is to use sample pots, suggests Andrea. “Start with your top three choices, and paint each sample onto large pieces of cardboard.

Over several days move these around the space at different times to see the colour under different lighting conditions, including artificial lights at night.”

Once you see how the shades are affected by the light and surrounding finishes, you’ll be able to pinpoint a favourite. If considering white on adjacent walls and trims, Dulux Lexicon Half, Lexicon Quarter and White on White scheme well with deep blues.

PRO TIP If you’re painting a dark shade on walls, preparation is key. Make sure there are no imperfections, and be aware you’ll need several coats to achieve a rich finish

Perfect pairings There aren’t many colours that clash with navy, but beware of pairing it with other dark shades such as black. Greige – a combination of grey and beige – and textural, natural linens and jute look fantastic with blues. Alongside its colour-wheel cousin green, the two create a cool, fresh feel, while colours like pink, orange or lemon add warmth to a blue scheme.

Distinguished accent If you’re a little colour shy, use soft furnishings to add a hit of dark blue. “White walls can provide the perfect foil for the intensity of rich bolts of blue, which you can incorporate through artwork, patterned fabrics, floor rugs or subtle details like blue piping on a lamp shade or cushions,” suggests Angela. ◆

Photography Lisa Cohen, (opposite page, top) Kaboodle Kitchen. Paint colours may vary on application

Use layers of different hues to highlight structural elements in a room; walls painted in Dulux Tirau Double and Panda Pod; feature wall painted in Ahoy

Your colour palette: shades of blue Whatever look you’re trying to achieve in your home, the transformative power of navy is well worth exploring 1 Taubmans Admiral Blue 2 British Paints Sea Shepherd 3 Dulux Sharp Blue 4 Dulux Aerostatics 5 Taubmans Cobalt Stone

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Plan it Fit in a home office

Work it

Whether you need a nook to do family admin or a room for running your fledgling business empire, it’s possible to carve out a great workspace in any home

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ith one in three Australians regularly working from home, it’s not surprising the home office is now a family staple. And even if we don’t work at home, the role of technology in our everyday lives means a permanent space to do admin, emailing and studying has become a modern must-have. The question is, where should it live?

Look for a nook “We have advances in technology to thank for small home office nooks,” says Ruth. “The beauty of smaller devices and more people working with laptops, rather than fixed monitors, is that we don’t need as much space as we used to.” If you don’t bunnings.com.au

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An under-utilised corner with access to natural light is the perfect spot for a compact work nook

have an obvious location, Ruth suggests, “Look for small, lovely spaces around the house: on the landing, in a corridor or under the stairs. Perhaps you have a beautiful spot with a view or lots of natural light.” Beware of cramped spaces, though.

“A width of 900mm is ideal, but don’t go any less than 700mm,” adds Ruth.

“You need enough room to put your elbows out, or you won’t feel comfortable and you won’t use it.”

A home office nook in an open-plan kitchen/living area is a great choice for family connection. A spot at the end of cabinetry often works well, with vertical storage to keep work mess contained. It can also double as a family organisational

EXPERT TIP “If it’s doing double duty, create a stylish integrated desk.

Match with your kitchen benchtops or bedroom cupboards rather than having a separate desk” Ruth Francis design director

Words Sue Wheeler. Photography GAP Interiors/Rachael Smith, (opposite page) Alamy Stock Photo

Good connection While some of us have room for a study, many need to find office space around the house. But before you pull up your swivel chair, Ruth Francis, design director of Forever Home Design (foreverhomedesign. com.au), suggests starting with a situation stocktake. “I ask people what they want to connect to and disconnect from,” she says.

“Do you want to get away and have privacy and quiet? Do you love spending time in a space that opens out to the garden and want to connect to that? Or maybe your priority is to have one family workstation positioned where you can see the children study when you’re cooking.”

Use your home’s existing colours and textures to create a cohesive look

hub. “Use a pinboard or whiteboard for messages and reminders. They won’t get lost under piles of paper and you won’t have a monitor covered in Post-It notes,” says professional organiser and property stylist Anita Birges (mise-en-place.com.au).

Corner office The dream – and a necessity for many work-from-homers – is a private, dedicated office you can close the door on at the end of the day. Decorate in a similar style to the rest of your interior to create a cohesive look and to make it easier to turn into an extra bedroom if you sell up (bedrooms are more appealing at auction time than studies). To be more connected, consider sliding or folding doors, and add a sofa bed and use it as a bedroom when you have guests. Anita suggests two easy ways to swap from work to welcome. “Find a small, simple desk or table that works with the

decor (and could even masquerade as a dressing table) and get under-bed storage on castors, so you can quickly hide away paperwork and office equipment.”

Hot desk Your desk or work surface is the first essential ingredient of the home office, but before you buy one, think about your needs in terms of size, storage, style and location. When your work hub shares living space, style is really important. Anita says, “You don’t want a clunky, corporatelooking desk sitting in a gorgeous room.

Think small and simple, with at least one drawer (and an insert to avoid a jumbled mess).” Ruth points to the trend towards minimal home office spaces that connect to surrounding areas. “It’s popular to use the same benchtop throughout your home, in the kitchen, laundry and now the home office,” she says. 

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Home office styling tips ¡ Steal your style: “Use colours and textures around your home in the office. It creates a cohesive look. There’s no reason why your desk can’t have a white marble top with bronze legs because it complements the furniture in your living room,” says Ruth. ¡ Go green: “Green has a calming effect, so introduce flowers or plants into your space. Even artificial greenery or a picture of plants and trees will create calm,” says Anita. ¡ Double duty: When sharing a space, choose office storage that looks like regular furniture.

Anita suggests Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cubes’ for this reason, adding, “Try to keep things within the boundaries of your furniture. Putting things on top looks messy.” ¡ Tame your tech: Create mellow mornings and screenfree nights by keeping the family tech organised at a multi-port docking station.

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Invest in an ergonomically correct and comfortable seat, especially if you sit for long periods. If you don’t, there are plenty of stylish and less ‘upholstered’ office chairs that still offer great support and will work well with your interior colour palette. Depending on the amount of time you spend sitting, you might even want to consider a standing desk, which can save your back – and space.

forget that storage can be maximised by going upwards, not just outwards.”

For storage that can be changed up as your needs evolve, look for wall strips, which can hold a flexible configuration of shelves, drawers, trays and baskets. Of course, storage also comes down to personal preference. “If you want to go minimal and paperless, you can simply have a beautiful desk and lamp,” says Ruth Francis.

An ordered mind Everyone’s storage needs are different, but make sure you have enough, and the right kind of storage, to keep your area tidy and organised. Think about your workflow, what you need within arm’s reach and what can be hidden or archived. Choose paperless options for admin if you can.

Jessica Haslem of Flexi Storage (flexistorage.com.au) says, “We often

Lighter side Natural light makes for a happier and healthier working environment, but to prevent glare on your screen, it’s best positioned to the side, rather than directly behind or in front of the computer. Not all work nooks can be next to a window, but if you find the perfect spot on a landing or in a corridor, Ruth suggests installing a skylight. “Introducing natural

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Photography iStock, (opposite page) Gap Interiors/Bureaux

If you have to position your screen in front of a window, place it off-centre to reduce glare

Multi-Purpose Multi-Purpose

Interior&&Exterior ExteriorFiller Filler Interior Pre-mixed&&ready readytotouse use • •Pre-mixed FineFiller, Filler,spreads spreadseasily easily • •Fine Longshelf shelflife, life,nonowaste waste • •Long

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Tuck away essentials in a cabinet and display decorative items on open shelves to help your home office hide in plain sight

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light from above will really make it a lovely space to work in,” she says.

Task lighting is essential. “A desk lamp, if beautiful, can be a feature. If you don’t have much space, strip lighting or an LED downlight integrated into the cabinetry saves on desk space,” says Ruth. You will also need general lighting; warm, dimmable light helps counteract the blues of electronic screens and is less disruptive to your sleep cycle. You don’t want the bulb to create heat, especially in a desk lamp or small space, so LEDs are the best choice. ◆

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Watch it!

Learn how to transform a tired old room into a practical and functional home office or study space: bunnings.com.au/studymakeover

1 Nu-Tec 3-outlet round powerboard with charging ports, $24.98, I/N: 4332222. 2 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ 76cm x 39cm x 76cm 2x2 unit in Light Oak, $54, I/N: 0045680. 3 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ 335mm x 376mm x 335mm 2 drawer insert in Light Oak, $25, I/N: 0079582.

4 CeVello ‘Freeway’ executive chair with wheels in Black, $409, I/N: 0103688. 5 Verve Design ‘Minette’ desk lamp in Grey, $32.95, I/N: 4371278. 6 CeVello 1200mm x 600mm oak desk in Charcoal, $159, I/N: 0098775. Items 4 and 6 only available in Vic, NSW and Qld. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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A recessed niche beside the bath is an unobtrusive way to add storage space

Tip

Bijou bathrooms A compact bathroom is a common conundrum, but with a few practical tricks, it’s easy to make a small space work for you

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t’s an essential element of every home, the room where we start and finish each day. But the bathroom often gets short-changed in the real estate department, struggling with a smaller metreage than it deserves. A teeny footprint might require more creative planning than a large space, but you can still create a beautiful, functional bathroom – and even include a touch of luxury.

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Best-laid plans A small bathroom is most often seen as a challenge to overcome, but interior designer Alanna Smit (alannasmit.com.au) suggests, “Having stricter parameters actually makes designing a space easier.

Start with your priority in the space – for example, is a double vanity a must-have?

Or is a larger-than-standard shower the priority?” Alanna’s top tip: opting for one

or the other – a larger shower or a generous vanity – will trick the eye into seeing the room as bigger than it is.

It’s important to consider what you will see as you enter the room. “The best layout for a long, thin space is to have the entry centred along the long wall with the vanity opposite and toilet and shower at either end,” says interior designer Carmel Wylie (facebook.com/cwylieinteriors). This layout,

Words Shelley Tustin. Photography Sue Stubbs, stylist Samantha Harris, bathroom design Home by Belle, (opposite page, left) Mondella, (right) iStock

“A clever trick is to introduce a single hidden waste (drain).

I love a smart tile strip drain that services both the vanity and shower. This keeps your floor finish less fussy, more streamlined and therefore less busy and cramped” Alanna Smit interior designer

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Mondella WELS 4 Star 3-4.5L/min White Concerto wall-hung pan, $299, I/N: 4823017.

Small bathroom solutions

Trick of the light

A circular mirror makes a great counterpoint to the more angular lines of a bathroom and helps bounce around natural light. If the room has minimal or no natural light, opt for a mirror with built-in illumination.

Utilise a bathroom wall cavity for space-saving features such as a hidden cistern

with the vanity mirror facing the door, can also help to make the space feel bigger.

A small bathroom often requires hard decisions on what to keep and what to drop, and a bath is usually the first item to fall off the shopping list – however, this needn’t be the case. A wall of 1.5 metres is wide enough to fit a bath, and shower-over-bath arrangements are standard fare for families with young children, for whom a bath might be a must-have. If a bath is not a necessity though, a roomy shower recess – with a cascading rain shower – can feel far more luxurious. “Showers are such important parts of our lives and it’s nice to have a generous space to unwind or start the day.

Even a one-metre shower feels large, as most are only 820mm,” says Carmel. In the absence of a bath, adding a bench seat or in-built bench to a large shower recess can add a sense of spa-style luxury.

The light stuff “Mirror and window placement is crucial in a small bathroom, as natural light and the reflection of natural light immediately makes any space feel lighter and airier and therefore more spacious,” says

Alanna. Large windows are ideal where possible, or consider introducing a skylight.

A small bathroom is probably not the place for a huge statement pendant light, but you do need to put thought into the lighting arrangements – too little and the room will seem even smaller, too bright and it will feel overwhelming. A flush-mounted ceiling light with a frosted diffuser will cast a gentle glow, while out-of-the-box options such as lighted mirrors provide bright task lighting around the vanity.

Small fry Small but savvy space-saving products can make all the difference in a petite bathroom.

“Smaller wall-hung vanities can maximise space and still deliver a designer look,” says Ben Favorito of Mondella (mondella.com. au). Any products that reveal more of the floor have a visually enlarging effect on the room – floating vanities and toilets, but also smaller versions of necessities, like singlebasin vanities and short-projection toilets.

Where space is at a premium, utilise the wall cavity with recessed cabinets, hidden cisterns and shower niches. “Shower niches increase shower storage space without the need for shelves, which project out from 

PRO TIP “Don’t try to cram everything in. If you can’t fit it all, don’t do it” Alanna Smit interior designer

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Update it PRO TIP “Having a statement tile on the floor really lifts a space and people are drawn to it. Selecting a neutral wall colour will allow the room to flow and creates no visual end point” Carmel Wylie interior designer

Floating vanities are great for creating a feeling of airy spaciousness, but often come at the price of valuable storage.

A solution to this is to install a shelf under the vanity for items like towels. “This can look fabulous and it’s using the dead space.

Plus, floating shelves can be stained or painted to match the vanity,” says Carmel.

A skylight can deliver much-needed natural light in a compact bathroom

Store more Keeping mess under control and surfaces clear is key to making a small bathroom feel more spacious, so planning excellent storage is a must. Mirrored cabinets are

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incredibly handy. “Just be sure it is deep enough for a toilet roll and then everything else will fit too,” says Carmel Wylie. “Put in a power point to charge sanitary items such as shavers and toothbrushes – this will keep the basin clutter-free.” If room allows, vertical wall-hung cabinets provide loads of storage for the amount of space they take up and can often be fitted behind doors.

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1 Living Elements freestanding 3 tier towel rack in Matte Black, $48, I/N: 0049435. 2 Mondella ‘Signature’ 800mm silver LED round mirror, $279, I/N: 1730217. 3 Estilo ‘Wenge’ 500mm bathroom mirror cabinet, $129, I/N: 0054537. 4 Cibo Design 600mm circle mirror cabinet in Coast Veneer, $259, I/N: 4844374. 5 Forme ‘Mont Albert’ 750mm wall-hung vanity in Light Ash with concrete stone top and ‘Comet’ basin, $999, I/N: 0102369. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Photography Gap Interiors/Colin Poole

the wall,” says Ben. Towel racks – rather than single rails – are also a great space saver, increasing the number of places to hang towels and helping tame clutter.

Magic tricks Making a small zone feel spacious is all about the art of illusion. Large-format tiles are an oft-quoted way of making a space look bigger, but when it comes to colours and finishes, the experts’ top tip is to be cautious of contrast. “Heavily contrasting colours or finishes are definitely a no-no in a small bathroom,” says Alanna Smit. “If you want a feature wall, use it on the floor too and pare back the other walls.” Carmel suggests another trick: “Have the tapware, vanity and wall tiles all the same colour for a minimal look,” she says. ◆

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Update it Adding a dishwasher

A slimline dishwasher could be the answer if you are short of room or have an awkward space in your kitchen. They are usually 450mm wide

Tired of washing up by hand?

Retrofit a sleek dishwasher to modernise your kitchen and rescue your dishpan hands

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oes your kitchen make you smile – until it’s time to do the dishes? Perhaps there is a conspicuous void left behind after the previous owners took their freestanding dishwasher with them – or maybe your kitchen’s classic features are matched with so-called mod cons that are neither modern nor convenient.

Regardless of the reason, if your kitchen is lacking a

dishwasher, don’t despair.

In certain cases, you can add one yourself, but even if you have to call in professional help, it is often a completely achievable prospect.

Spoilt for choice Freestanding dishwashers are the most popular type and can simply slot into a suitable cavity (either 600mm wide for a standard size or 450mm wide for slimline models). If no

provision was ever made for a dishwasher in your kitchen, you might decide on an integrated or semi-integrated unit, which is concealed in your cabinetry.

An integrated dishwasher will be more labour-intensive to install, as you will typically need to have the kickboard removed and refitted. You’ll also have to source a panel matching your existing cabinet doors and attach it to the front of the dishwasher so it’s hidden.

Words Gun Arvidssen. Photography Kaboodle

Chore leave

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about whether the appliance is properly grounded,” he advises.

Consider working an integrated dishwasher into your kitchen design for a clean, seamless look – perfect for modern or classic schemes

If you’re renting, or if there is no practical space for a full-size dishwasher, you can still ditch the drudgery of washing-up by hand. Countertop models are the same width as standard dishwashers (sometimes smaller), but only half the height, so they can sit on top of the benchtop, and can be easily connected to your tap without calling a plumber.

To DIY or not to DIY? The decision about when to call in the pros hinges on whether there is a power point within range of the dishwasher cable – usually around 1 metre to 1.5 metres. In some cases, you will also need modifications made to the plumbing so that the water supply hose can be connected. All mains-power work and virtually all plumbing jobs need to be carried out by licensed tradespeople.

Even if the power and water supplies can be connected easily and there is a wastehose connector on the trap under the sink, having the dishwasher professionally installed offers additional

peace of mind. According to Jim Mavropoulos, national sales and marketing manager at Bellini, it’s worth talking to a pro. “We strongly recommend you check with a qualified electrician or service representative if you’re in doubt

Find the perfect spot In the best case, there will already be a cavity prepared for the dishwasher. If not, you will most likely need to remove a cabinet carcass and part of the kickboard to accommodate it. “Positioning is better suited close to taps and the siphon connection should be less than one metre away,” says Jim. Aside from installation requirements, having the machine next to the sink is also a commonsense way to streamline the process of rinse, stack, repeat. However, there’s no need to lose hope if the only place you can realistically locate a new dishwasher is further from the tap and trap than the default supply and waste hose’s reach. It is possible to purchase extra-long hoses that can be directed from your existing plumbing to wherever they are needed. ¿

How does it stack up?

If you’re ready to hang up your rubber gloves and buy a dishwasher, look at how it rates in the following areas.

WELS rating: This stands for Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards. It’s a six-star scheme that rates the water efficiency of appliances. When purchasing a dishwasher, look for the WELS label, which will tell you the star rating – six stars being the most efficient – and how many litres of water that model uses. It will vary between models so do your homework.

Energy star rating: This indicates how efficiently the dishwasher uses electricity. Again, the more stars a model has, the more efficient it is. If energy saving is a priority, another handy feature to look out for is a delay timer, which allows you to set the machine to operate during off-peak hours when your electricity tariff is cheapest.

Capacity: This is described in terms of the nominal number of place settings a dishwasher holds. A small countertop unit might only take six settings, while a full-size 600mm model can hold up to 15. Work out the best capacity for your home.

Noise rating: This is definitely one to look out for in an open-plan space. Most of today’s dishwashers are very quiet, typically rated at about the 50-decibel mark, which is roughly the same as a spoken conversation.

5 of the best

Everdure WELS 2.5 star 8.7L 55cm countertop dishwasher in White, $429, I/N: 5103556

Bellini WELS 4 star 11.5L/wash freestanding dishwasher, $364, I/N: 5104072

Bellini 45cm WELS 4 star 9.4L 9 place setting stainless steel dishwasher with 6 programs, $437, I/N: 5104011

Everdure 60cm WELS 4 star 13.6L stainless steel freestanding dishwasher, $529, I/N: 5103644

Blanco 60cm WELS 4.5 star 13.4L semi-integrated dishwasher, $999, I/N: 5104062 Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Superfresco Easy ‘Prairie’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Charcoal, $64.70, I/N: 1662664

Off the wall Wallpaper is a speedy, fashion-forward solution to fixing dull and dreary walls

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Update it Decorating with wallpaper

Paste-the-wall wallpapers are simple to hang and to replace – just strip off without scraping or steaming

Create a statement wall with a playful pattern

Left: Superfresco Easy ‘Aura’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Pink, $61.70, I/N: 0106458. Above: Boutique ‘Safari’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Midnight, $93.10, I/N: 0106466.

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

wallpaper looks particularly stylish in rich, dark colours. Textured wallpaper also works wonders at hiding wall defects such as scratches and cracks, but installation can be more difficult and it’s harder to remove when you want to try a new look.

W Words Vanessa Keys

allpaper is enjoying a resurgence – and no wonder. Quick, inexpensive and easy to DIY, wallpaper injects life and texture into walls, speedily transforming a blank canvas into a personal statement. “The power of pattern, texture and colour is electric,” says Paula Taylor from Graham & Brown. “It can awaken the senses and enhance your mood. And now wallpaper is so easy to hang, it’s a great way to breathe new life into your home.”

MATERIAL MATTERS For wallpaper that’s both breathable and washable, you can’t go past non-woven wallpapers (try the range by Graham &

Brown). Made of a blend of natural and synthetic fibres, they’re the most user-friendly coverings going, as they’re tear resistant and easy to both install and remove. Vinyl wallpapers, such as those from the Designer JMD collection, are washable, durable and light-resistant, making them perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. But they don’t allow walls to breathe, so are best avoided in bedrooms and poorly ventilated spaces.

If texture is what you’re craving, consider an embossed wallpaper like those from the Superfresco paintable collection, which can add depth and an interesting contrast, as well as allowing you to create your own striking colour scheme; embossed

EASY INSTALLATION If you’re going DIY, the new technology behind paste-the-wall paper means anyone can confidently install it, unlike the more traditional wallcoverings where you need to paste the paper itself. “Pastethe-wall wallpapers have a unique backing paper that doesn’t need to be soaked with adhesive prior to hanging,” explains Eva Bowker from Fantastic Handyman (fantastichandyman.com.au). “This makes it much easier to install.”

MEASURE UP Getting the right amount of wallpaper is crucial, so do your sums carefully. First, decide if you’re papering the whole room or just one wall. Online calculators are helpful here, but as a rough guide, measure the  bunnings

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Superfresco Easy ‘Country Tartan’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Silver, $61.70, I/N: 0106455

Update it width of each wall and divide by 52cm (a standard roll width) to get the number of drops. Measure the height of the space, adding 15cm to allow for trimming, and multiply by the number of drops to get the required amount in metres. “If you’re using patterned paper, you’ll need a bit extra to play around with so you can match it perfectly,” adds Eva Bowker. Always overestimate, rather than underestimate.

It’s important that all the rolls come from the same batch (check the number on the roll), as colours can vary.

MAKE A SPLASH Contrary to popular belief, you can use wallpaper in wet areas like the kitchen and bathroom – but choose one that is water-resistant. “Look for a thick vinyl coating, which is designed to divert any moisture,” says Eva. In the kitchen, you could use wallpaper to demarcate dining areas, or line the back of shelves to give a glimpse of colour. For a spa-like feel in your bathroom, look to patterns that mimic nature, like oversized botanical prints or the iconic banana-leaf pattern. ◆

5 ways with wallpaper

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1 Superfresco Easy ‘Paintable Beadboard’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper, $38.50, I/N: 1661257. 2 Superfresco Easy 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Sahara Natural, $64.70, I/N: 1662668. 3 Superfresco Easy ‘Industry’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Rouge, $59, I/N: 2360714. 4 Designer JMD ‘Fabulous’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Black/Grey, $72.40, I/N: 1662881.

5 Superfresco Easy ‘Myrtle Geo’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in White/Silver, $61.70, I/N: 0079315. 6 Superfresco Easy ‘Zebra’ 52cm x 10m glitter wallpaper in Silver, $64.70, I/N: 1662169. 7 Superfresco Easy ‘Ratan Natuurlijk Ratan Of Course’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper, $61.70, I/N: 1662950. 8 Superfresco Easy ‘Palm Leaves’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Green, $61.70, I/N: 1662903. 9 Superfresco Easy ‘Ledgestone’ 52cm x 10m wallpaper in Grey/Terracotta, $64.70, I/N: 1662661. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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1 Look up There’s no statement ceiling quite like a wallpapered one. This is your chance to add personality to your space without disrupting your existing scheme.

Wild florals and dramatic damasks look spectacular on the ceiling.

2 Stairway to heaven Wallpapered stair risers make the staircase a place you’ll want to stop and linger. You can stick with one pattern or choose a solid colour and repeat it in varying hues as the stairs ascend.

3 Feature it Limiting your wallpaper to one wall gives the pattern a playfulness it might not have in a whole room. “Trending now are geometrics, tropical and industrial brick,” says Paula Taylor.

4 Small slice Wallpaper can have as much impact in the in-between places. Use a favourite paper to cover the backs of cabinets and bookcases, on top of shelves or inside drawers – you’ll smile every time you pull out a plate.

5 Break the mould Use a geometric wallpaper to draw attention to your home’s architectural features, such as moulding, trim and panels. You could try a mid-century pattern on wall panels, a hint of colour inside recessed window frames, or a textured paper above a fireplace.

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Tip Kaboodle kitchen cabinetry offers a choice of profiles, from smooth and flat modern to grooved Shaker-style panels

tailor made Bring kitchen cabinetry into the bedroom to make better-thanbespoke wardrobes

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alancing high-end tastes with a restricted budget is an age-old struggle, but having completed a whirlwind renovation of her formerly dishevelled Melbourne home, Nat Wheeler is a master. With friend Kristy Sadlier, co-founder of the Scandi-inspired homewares store and interior design consultancy Norsu Interiors, Nat went into the reno with big ideas and tight purse strings. “We had to be creative with what we did, so we didn’t blow our budget,� she says.

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Like these nifty storage products? Turn to ‘Closet Clear-out’ on page 52 for details

Update it Customise your wardrobe

Hang it all

Nat found a Sandleford steel rail compatible with the pantry units and installed it herself.

“And if I can do it, anyone can!” she says. To make the best use of the deep cabinets and keep everything accessible, she used a range of baskets, storing clothes in the KonMari folding method, which uses the available space most efficiently and keeps it all easily visible.

PRO TIP “Yes, there are some extravagant things in the home, but when it comes down to stuff like the cabinetry and the wardrobes, that was done on a budget with Kaboodle”

Words Shelley Tustin. Photography Shania Shegedyn, stylists Nat Wheeler & Kristy Sadlier

Nat Wheeler home owner

Versatile cabinetry One of the biggest expenses of any reno is joinery and, with a growing family, Nat had no intention of skimping on storage – but custom joinery can come with a hefty price tag. Nat had used some Kaboodle cabinets for her kitchen reno and could see how the same units could be applied to other settings. With some creative thinking, she devised bedroom storage that looks completely customised, functions well – and all on a budget.

Posh pulls

There was certainly no need to compromise on good looks, with the beautiful paint job on the wardrobe doors enhanced by chic leather and brass recessed pulls from MadeMeasure (mademeasure.com). “That’s how you add a bit of flair,” explains Nat.

Kristy (left) and Nat kept a tight hold on the budget in the reno of Nat’s home

Bespoke flatpack Among Nat’s list of must-haves was tall cabinetry, achieved by stacking kitchen base cabinets on top of pantry units, and removing the adjustable shelves in the pantry section. This left enough room for shirts, short dresses and coats to hang comfortably. “Long dresses can hang, just folded up a bit – that was the one compromise,” says Nat. The top cabinets reach almost to the ceiling to create a wall of cabinetry, as well as providing extra storage for seldom-used items. “They are the handiest cupboards because all of our suitcases fit perfectly in them,” adds Nat. }

To prevent wire baskets scratching your shelves, stick felt guards, such as Madico self-stick felt surface savers, on the underside of each basket

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50 Tip Nat used Kaboodle’s 3D planning tool to design and visualise cabinetry throughout her home: bunnings.com.au/ kitchenplanner

Grey scale Kaboodle’s paint-your-own doors offer the ability to select any colour and finish.

This was a major draw for Nat, who wanted a very specific look for her Alpine profile doors: a matt finish in beautiful Dulux Tranquil Retreat. They were sent off to Nu-Pride bathroom and kitchen resurfacing specialists (nupride.com.au), who produced a perfect finish in durable 2pac.

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Update it All Set 2 tier wooden shoe rack in White, $18.49, I/N: 2583482

KonMari folding Organisational guru Marie Kondo has revolutionised our clothes drawers.

Using her folding techniques, clothes are stored standing upright, not stacked on top of each other, which saves space and keeps everything easily visible. Here’s how to do it.  Lay the clothing item out flat.  Fold the edges into the middle, tucking in sleeves and untidy bits to make a long rectangle.  Fold to form a smaller rectangle (T-shirts are best folded in half, then into thirds) that will stand up on its edge.

As an alternative to shoe racks, stackable tubs with lids can also be used to store footwear

Built-in beauty By having a plasterer install a bulkhead, Nat created the illusion of built-in cabinets – and the impression of a high-end construction. “That’s one of my top tips: by not spending a lot, you can have it really look like it’s built in,” she says, noting that even a lot of professional kitchen or wardrobe companies will leave a gap between wall cabinetry and the ceiling. u

Watch it!

Learn how to put in units, build a shelf and attach a hanging rod in your wardrobe: bunnings.com.au/ installawardrobeinsert

Turn the page for more expert tips on making your wardrobe work for you.

Wardrobe shopping Maximise the storage potential of your space with baskets, racks, inserts and drawers 1

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1 Multistore ‘EXC-750’ 2000mm x 750mm x 450mm 2 x hanging rail wardrobe insert in White, $274, I/N: 2668922. 2 Neatfreak 19.1cm x 30.5cm x 142cm hanging 10 shelf closet organiser, $28.90, I/N: 0098247. 3 Kaboodle 16mm chrome-plated discreet grip kitchen door handle, $5.15, I/N: 2662566. 4 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ 33cm x 37cm x 33cm premium fabric insert in Blush Pink, $10.35, I/N: 0082385. 5 Flexi Storage large sliding wardrobe 3 drawer unit in White, $155, I/N: 2583922. 6 Neatfreak 80.2cm x 34.5cm x 66.3cm shoe cubby, $69.95, I/N: 0098248. 7 Flexi Storage 600mm x 470mm sliding pants rack in White, $60, I/N: 2661003. 8 All Set 70cm x 44cm x 54cm 4 tier wire storage drawer unit, $28, I/N: 2583959. 9 Neatfreak 53cm x 160cm over the door accessory organiser, $25, I/N: 0098251. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Update it Wardrobe refresh

Closet clear-out Cut the clutter with these expert storage tips to help you get more from your wardrobe

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f your mornings are spent frantically searching through shelves and ducking from cascading shoes, it’s time to take a step back and get organised.

“An ordered wardrobe is an absolute game changer when it comes to maximising your outfits and minimising expenses,” says interior designer Liz Hayward (haywardandco.com.au).

“Don’t fall into the trap of thinking, ‘I have nothing to wear’ and making a panicked purchase when all that’s needed is simple planning and storage solutions.”

Read on for our expert tips for making the most of your space.

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Make a plan Before you hit the shops, work out what you need to get out of your storage. “It may sound laborious, but cleaning out any unworn or old clothes will save you time and money,” says Liz. You don’t need to go full-on Marie Kondo, but be honest with yourself about why you want to keep specific things. “Once you have your final selection of pieces, count how many long coats, short coats, shoes, handbags, tops and pants you have. This will quickly set the wardrobe requirements you need and take out any guesswork.”

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Tip “Use what space you have to hang clothes, then maximise space with a hanging shelf organiser to store shoes, bags and other accessories” Hannah Storey NeatFreak Closets

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Smart solutions Most wardrobes aren’t initially designed with a focus on functionality, so once you know exactly what you need to store, you can create useful solutions to suit your requirements based on the existing layout of your wardrobe.

“If you have ample hanging space but no place for items that don’t hang, place a set of low drawers below the hanging rack,” says professional organiser Amy Revell (simplyorganised.net).

“This way, they’re hidden but usable.”

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Shopping

Flexi Storage 205mm 1 runner half width wire basket in White, $5, I/N: 2583976.

Hills foldable bamboo laundry basket in Smoke, $29, I/N: 0013628.

All Set 2 tier wooden shoe rack in White, $18.49, I/N: 2583482.

Flexi Storage 85mm 1 runner mesh basket in White, $14.52, I/N: 2590163.

The Neatfreak!

Closet Designer helps you visualise storage solutions.

Type in your wardrobe dimensions and drag and drop to build your dream space. Visit bunnings. neatfreakclosets. com

Words Vanessa Keys

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Hang in there Another common wardrobe failing is loads of full-height shelves. “Clothes just get lost and never stay folded on high shelves,” says Amy. “Instead, place open baskets on the shelves to contain your items. Separate everything into different containers and just pull out when you need something.” Contain smaller items like socks and underwear inside drawer dividers, and utilise inside wardrobe doors for scarves, belts and ties. “Hanging hooks keep accessories organised and visible,” adds Amy.

TopDry 65L laundry hamper with bamboo frame in Dark Grey, $29, I/N: 4511012.

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

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Best foot forward Are shoes overtaking your space? Put them into categories – everyday wear, weekend wear and special occasions – and store them accordingly. “Everyday shoes should go at the top of the shoe rack for easy access,” says Hannah Storey from Neatfreak Closets (bunnings.neatfreakclosets.com). “Store less frequently worn shoes at the bottom, and ones you rarely wear in boxes at the top of your wardrobe. Store flats and sandals in an over-the-door organiser to leave floor space for bulky items.” ◆ bunnings

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Fix it

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Essentials

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The DIY beginner’s toolkit

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Keen to start on the DIY path?

Here’s our pick of the essentials you need for your first toolbox

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Words Adam Woodhams. Photography Cath Muscat, stylist Tilly Roberts

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� NWS ‘Pro All Round’ 3-piece plier set, $69, I/N: 6010453. 2 Tactix bluetooth earmuffs, $69.98, I/N: 5810828.

3 Craftright 10-piece extra long hex key set, $12.98, I/N: 6120123. 4 Irwin ‘Quick-Grip’ 150mm 2-piece mini clamp set, $28.95, I/N: 5861495. 5 Ryobi ‘One+’ 18V hammer drill kit (includes 1.5Ah and 5.0Ah Lithium+ batteries), $219, I/N: 0087752. 6. Stanley 20-piece screwdriver set (case not pictured), $31.95, I/N: 6061822. 7 Stanley 43-piece 1/2” drive socket set, $129, I/N: 6120383. 8 Bahco 550mm hardpoint hand saw, $13.95, I/N: 5710249. bunnings.com.au

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9 Trojan 250mm wide mouth adjustable wrench, $18.98, I/N: 6110659. 10 Craftright 460mm powdercoated tool box, $16.98, I/N: 5820733. 11 Empire ‘Worksite’ fine tip markers, $6.45/pack of 4, I/N: 5660733. 12 Empire 300mm combination square, $23.98, I/N: 5667081. 13 Irwin folding utility knife, $19.98, I/N: 5760341. 14 Kincrome 20oz claw hammer, $32.94, I/N: 5560271. 15 Mechanix Wear ‘SpeedKnit CR5’ nitrile gloves, $12.95, I/N: 0013579. 16 Ryobi ‘One+’ 18V 165mm circular saw (skin only), $139, I/N: 6210595.

17 Stanley FatMax ‘Next Gen’ 8m tape measure, $36.95, I/N: 0038876. 18 EyeShields safety glasses, $2.65, I/N: 5810665. 19 Stanley FatMax ‘Sensor 300’ stud finder, $38.90, I/N: 5660419. 20 Stanley FatMax 1200mm non magnetic spirit level, $59.95, I/N: 5660400. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.  bunnings

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Fix it What to put in your toolkit Equip yourself with these basics then get cracking on a DIY project!

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hough simple, tackling some entry-level DIY tasks – such as hanging pictures, putting up shelves, fixing wobbly table legs or replacing handles – is incredibly satisfying and rewarding. And it makes all the difference to have the right tools at hand, including these, our essential picks for a beginner’s toolkit.

Drawing the DIY line One of the most important DIY skills is knowing when you should step aside for the professionals.  Anything to do with electrical or plumbing works is extremely dangerous. It’s also illegal to DIY: you need a licensed tradie for all electrical work and virtually all plumbing work.  Anything structural – walls, posts and columns, footings and foundations – will need input from a qualified expert. You may be able to do the work but will likely need professional assessment, possibly plans drawn and potentially even council approval.  If in doubt, don’t. Be very honest when you evaluate your projects. If you think a task is too big to be accomplished singlehanded or too complex for your skills, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals.

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Claw hammer Every toolkit needs a hammer, to use on everything from the obvious – hammering in nails – to light demolition work, shaping of materials and more. Look for a non-slip, anti-vibration shaft or grip that sits well in your hand and a well curved claw with a deep, fine V, so even small nails can be extracted.

Retractable tape measure This is your go-to tool for measuring anything from timber before cutting to working out if that new couch will fit. When extended, the metal measure is semi rigid; a ‘stop’ button holds it in place. The most popular and practical length is eight metres, but you can get smaller (two or five metres) or up to 30 metres.

Combination square Its rigid and moveable steel blade is at a right angle to the handle, which has a level-bubble and wide faces for positioning against a surface when marking or measuring. It also has a 45˚ shoulder for angle marking.

Uses include marking timber for straight or angle cuts, and scribing a line on a long surface.

Spirit level You need this must-have tool for accurately checking a line or object is level (horizontal) or plumb (vertical). A spirit level is generally an aluminium box or bar structure, which holds fixed vials of liquid marked with lines and containing a large bubble.

Hold it against a surface and when the bubble is between the lines, it’s level (or plumb).

EXPERT TIP

Screwdriver set You’ll always need conventional screwdrivers for their accuracy and control.

An extended set will reduce the possibility of damage to screw heads from using the wrong screwdriver tip size. Aim to have at least two Phillips head and two flat-head screwdrivers; ideally, short and long shafted drivers and colour-coded for different head types.

“Find a quality tool belt to hold your mostneeded tools, like a hammer, tape measure, carpenter’s pencil, utility knife, 25mm chisel and combination square, as well as nails and screws” Brandt McRitchie builder

Spanner set or an adjustable wrench Nuts and bolts are a DIY inevitability. But the wrong spanner can slip and may damage and round off the nut or bolt head. An adjustable medium size wrench (200mm) is ideal if you only want one tool. A spanner set gives you accurate sizing within the range; slipping will be less likely.

Timber handsaw A generalpurpose timber saw is a must.

Matt Francis, national training manager at Stanley Black & Decker, says a saw’s teeth per inch (TPI), indicates the type of finish it will give you. “A higher number, such as 10TPI, will cut more smoothly; a saw with 6TPI will have larger teeth and give you a rougher cut,” he says.

Circular saw A circular saw makes larger projects easier and does things like ripping – that is, cutting a piece of timber from end-to-end – with ease.

Battery models are useful for many DIY tasks – just select a model that’s within your existing battery ecosystem – or you may prefer a traditional corded model.

Hex keys “I’m always going to the toolkit to get the hex keys to assemble or disassemble some furniture,” says Bunnings tool buyer Paul Bailey.

Available in various sizes in sets, in metric and/or imperial measurements, these handy devices are an essential piece of kit for almost all flat-pack construction projects.

Electronic stud finder Drilling a hole in a wall is a common but potentially risky DIY task. Pipes and wiring lurk behind walls; hitting them can be disastrous.

Missing the timber stud also means holes to patch. A stud finder can tell you where the centre of a stud is for accurate drilling and screwing. Some also warn of live wires in the vicinity.

Hammer drill With a rotating and forward hammering action, this drill makes holes in masonry surfaces (for anchoring plugs or bolts) with ease. “Think about future tools you’re likely to want when buying into an 18V platform,” suggests Paul Bailey.

Select a model with a battery that can interchange with other power tools as your kit grows. ◆

ADVANCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL Australia’s favourite wheel with that extra edge.

ADVANCED... is here

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MORE MUSCLE

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Fix it Organise your storage

De-grunge the garage Even if your garage is largely out of sight, it shouldn’t be out of mind when it comes to sorting your storage

T Words Gun Arvidssen. Photography Getty Images

oo often, the garage or shed becomes a dumping ground for everything from garden tools to sports gear, and the mess can get out of hand. But usually, it doesn’t take longer than a day (or at worst, a weekend) to transform a clutter cave into a neat, organised space. So roll up your sleeves and invest in some ingenious storage solutions – it will be well worth it!

Master the disaster The first step is to rid yourself of all those offcuts and half-empty paint tins. If there are functional items such as old power tools or sporting goods you no longer use, hold a garage sale, take them to a recycling centre or give them to charity. “A good rule of thumb to help with sorting is, if you haven’t used it in the last 12 months, you probably don’t need it,” says Shannon Nettle, product development manager at Pinnacle Hardware.

Leftover paint is a common bugbear.

Visit paintback.com.au to find your nearest collection centre for disposal of quantities up to 100 litres, in sealed containers of no more than 20 litres each. “Community 

Clever solutions make use of all surfaces, especially walls, to store the gear that families accumulate

Ezy Storage bunker heavy duty storage tubs in Black, from $12.99/20L, I/N: 2583513, and White, from $12.99/20L, I/N: 2583713. Ezy Storage 4 pack castor wheels add on kit, $12.49, I/N: 2583764. Ezy Storage flexi storage tubs, from $3.50/16L, I/N: 2583351. For similar shelving try Keter Plus open base shelving, $189, I/N: 0097701, and for similar tool hangers, try StorEase 20cm double hook, $14.59, I/N: 2580029.

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

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Tip Group similar items such as power tools or gardening kit in large crates, and sort smaller items into tote boxes or compartment organisers

Recycling Centres and Household Chemical CleanOut events offer residents a year-round free service to drop off problem wastes that should not be put in the kerbside bins,” says Augusta Carey, a spokesperson for the NSW Environment Protection Authority. “These events collect, on average, 2000 tonnes of chemical waste each year across NSW alone.”

High and mighty Wondering where to keep long materials such as decking boards, roofing sheets and guttering? The only way is up! Oversized items can often be stowed overhead, depending on the garage ceiling material.

If it’s plasterboard, you’ll need to secure Turn to page 72 to learn how to make your own tools organiser

Tough customer

Heavy-duty shelving with a hefty weight-bearing capacity is the go-to for good garage storage. Pinnacle’s Shannon Nettle recommends zoning heavy, bulky items on the bottom shelves, everyday items in the middle and seasonal items at the top.

“This will ensure your belongings are always well-organised and easily accessible,” he says.

From left: 410mm x 1140mm x 515mm wall mount storage shelf, $59, I/N: 2760334. Utility hook, $6.20/set of 2, I/N: 2580672. General tool holder, $6.20, I/N: 2610012. Dual storage garage hook, $6, I/N: 2582559. 5 tier 1830mm x 1200mm x 410mm shelving unit, $109, I/N: 2760459. 1830mm x 860mm x 410mm lockable garage cabinet, $229, I/N: 2583602. 260mm x 230mm x 900mm slimline garage cabinets, $89 each, I/N: 2583858. 1495mm x 1800mm 4 piece pegboard and bracket set, $199, I/N: 2760473. 1800mm x 925mm x 600mm garage workbench, $299, I/N: 2760468. 830mm x 665mm x 465mm 4 drawer mobile storage unit, $339, I/N: 2760471. 830mm x 665mm x 465mm 2 door mobile garage cabinet, $229, I/N: 2760472.

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

shelves or hooks to the ceiling joists, using a stud finder to locate them, and avoid suspending anything particularly heavy.

A concrete garage is simpler – you can use sleeve anchors such as DynaBolts to attach heavy-duty hangers and holders.

Safe as houses Always keep poisons and chemicals in general in their original packaging, and out of reach of children – and pets! If you have a cat, be aware that putting solvents and similar items on a high shelf may not be enough. It’s never fun to discover your pet has managed to smash a jar of leftover varnish stain on the floor of your garage, several days after the fact. “A lockable cabinet allows you to secure dangerous or valuable items such as power tools and chemicals,” adds Shannon. ◆

Watch it!

Need more room for storage? Learn how to build a multi-bike rack: bunnings.com.au/ makeamultiplebikerack

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Counter culture

Timber creates warmth and character but needs some TLC

Looking for a new kitchen benchtop? Here’s our guide to the most popular surfaces

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he kitchen benchtop is one of the most-used surfaces in your home, so choosing the right material is important. “There are two areas within a kitchen I always encourage my clients not to skimp on: benchtops and cabinetry hardware,” says interior designer Kate Watson of D’Eco Design (decodesign.net.au). “In my opinion, these are the two things where you really notice wear and tear. I encourage my clients to go for the best benchtop they can afford.” With lots of options available, you’re bound to find one to suit your style and budget.

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Timber An easy way to add natural warmth to a kitchen is with timber benches. Choose from a piece of solid timber or one that has been laminated together (like a butcher’s block).

“Timber varies in hardness,” says Kate. “If you opt for a soft timber, such as pine, be prepared for your bench to show the dings and dents.”

Hardwoods are more resistant to wear and tear, but whatever you choose, keep in mind you will need to provide a little love and care to keep it in tip-top condition. As timber is a natural material, it is more vulnerable to scratches, chipping and staining, says Lisa Mayski of Kaboodle. “So it’s important to be attentive when it comes to using and maintaining the surface to ensure longevity.”

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Fix it Benchtop buyer ’s guide

Solid surface If you’re looking for organic shapes and large areas without joins, a solid surface benchtop like Think Solid might be the right solution.

“The beauty of this material is that it is lightweight and because there are no visible join lines it is the perfect choice for oversized centre islands,” says Kate. Similar to engineered stone, these surfaces are heat-resistant but not heatproof. However, a big upside to solid surface worktops is that scratches and marks can be repaired. }

Try a marble-look laminate; Kaboodle cut to measure benchtop in Oyster Swirl

Solid surface benchtops create a clean, minimal look

Laminate Laminate benchtops have been popular for decades and for good reason – they’re well priced, come in a huge range of colours and finishes, and are tough enough to stand up to whatever your family dishes out. Whereas stone benchtops need professional installation, stone-look laminate can be a DIY job. In addition, there are now laminates available with scuff resistance and anti-fingerprint technology, so your benchtop will stand both everyday use and the test of time. “There are many popular stone-inspired laminate benchtops to choose from, and a laminate benchtop will give you that designer look for less,” adds Lisa.

Words Nellie McLaren Photography (top) Getty Images

Match your benchtop and splashback; Kaboodle cut to measure benchtop and splashback in Soyanut

PRO TIP Stone is porous so it can be susceptible to spills and stains.

Make sure it is sealed and maintained to protect against damage

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Shop

Find the right surface for your style and wallet

Kaboodle 2400mm x 600mm x 38mm laminate benchtop in Flint Stone, $332, I/N: 2669817

Tougher and cheaper than natural stone but with similar good looks, there’s a lot to love about engineered stone

Think Solid 38mm custom made solid surface benchtop in Riverbed, $678/sqm, I/N: 2662195

Think Timber 2405mm x 600mm x 32mm modular benchtop in Ash, $622, I/N: 2662210

Engineered stone Engineered stone is “by far one of the most sought-after benchtop materials,” says Kate Watson. “It is hard wearing, looks great, and comes in a large variety of colours.”

However, there are a few things to be aware of. Darker colours will show the join lines more than the lighter ones, which could be a consideration if you have a bench or island longer than 3000mm (the standard

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For more information to help you choose the right benchtop to suit your needs and budget, head to: bunnings.com.au/ kitchenbenchtopguide

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slab size). While engineered stone is heat-resistant, it is not heatproof, so never put a pan directly on the surface.

Also, not all engineered stone is priced the same – the marble-look stones tend to be more expensive. Don’t forget to factor installation costs into your budget; for example, if you include a waterfall end to the bench, it could add an additional cost for labour. ◆

PRO TIP Choose your benchtop material first then take a sample of it with you when picking out your splashback to help you narrow down the right combination

Kaboodle 2400mm x 600mm x 33mm timber benchtop in Jarrah, $475, I/N:0082260

Essential Stone ‘Creative Stone’ 40mm engineered stone benchtop in Calcutta Classique, from $880/sqm, I/N: 2669492 Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Kitchen fires are the leading cause of house

fires in Australia but with a Quell Worry-Free

Kitchen smoke alarm, you can protect you and your family today.

So why do I need a Quell Worry-Free Kitchen smoke alarm?

A room-specific, kitchen smoke alarm can help to reduce cooking-related nuisance alarms Dual smoke and Carbon Monoxide sensing technologies work to detect real fires faster and protect from dangerous Carbon Monoxide poisoning A 10-year sealed lithium battery means you never have to change the battery for the life of the alarm

Don’t be a statistic this winter. Stay looking when you’re cooking!

www.quell.com.au

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Pruning plants

ne of the best things you can do for your garden this winter is to prune. Not all plants need it but, as a general rule, deciduous trees and shrubs – like roses, hydrangeas and some stoneand fruit trees – will benefit from a good trim. Knowing where and what to prune is important, especially as this can impact next season’s harvest or blooms. Here are some tips to help you make the cut.

A cut above Winter is prime pruning season for many plants.

A good trim keeps them healthy and promotes growth – and can even help increase your stock of plants bunnings.com.au

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Timing is everything It may be tempting to just go for it, but waiting for the right time to prune is important.

Trimming roses or evergreen shrubs too early can encourage a flush of new growth, which can be easily damaged with a frost. For deciduous plants, wait until the stems are leafless. With evergreen trees and shrubs, be patient until the chance of the

Words Tammy Huynh. Photography Brigid Arnott

Tip After hydrangeas finish flowering, prune back by up to two-thirds – they’ll reward you by flourishing in spring!

Shaping up Pruning during winter helps to keep plants at a manageable size, improves overall health and encourages a flush of new growth come spring, explains Angie Thomas of The Happy Gardener (facebook.com/ angiethehappygardener).

“It helps open up fruit trees, allowing more air and sunlight into the centre, which is better for your future harvest,” she says. “As stems are leafless, you can better spot and remove stems and branches which are dead or diseased.”

You can also do the same for evergreen trees and shrubs, especially hedges. Look for deadwood (usually grey) and any branches growing inwards.

Don’t just remove outer growth, look at the centre of the plant too, towards the main trunk. If this area is neglected, over time it will become straggly and sparse – not a good look.

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last frost has passed. In areas with no frost, mid-winter is generally a good time. An exception to winter pruning is the climbing rose – don’t prune in winter as you’ll be removing spring flowers. Only cut back once the flowers have finished, in spring or early summer.

How to prune a rose

Making the cut Pruning the right spot is key for healthy growth. “It’s best to prune stems to just above an outward-facing bud (small swollen nodes on the stem),” says Angie. “This encourages new stems to grow outwards, rather than towards the centre of the plant, which could create an unhealthy environment.”

After pruning roses and stone fruit trees, spray with a solution of Yates Lime Sulfur; this will help control common pests and fungal problems.

STEP 1 When pruning roses, shape and structure are important. The bushes can safely be cut back by about two thirds and should be pruned so they’ll grow well and look great in bloom. First, stand back from the rose bush and look for dead flowers, branches that cross over one another, branches that congest the centre of the plant and deadwood. These all need taking care of during pruning.

Tools of the trade Not all pruning tools are created equal. “Secateurs are perfect for pruning roses, deadheading and general use,” says Julien Laurent of Fiskars.

“Ensure they are sharp and clean so you get accurate cuts and avoid diseases.”

Use shears to prune hedges.

For large branches, look for a pruning saw or a lopper, which has longer handles and gears to help with leverage.

1

TIP

2 Keep secateurs in tip top pruning condition. After use, wash with warm soapy water, dry and rub with vegetable oil to deter rust STEP 2 Use a pruning saw to remove any dead branches, very old brown or grey wood or thick stems. Always cut on an angle so any water runs off.

TIP Protect yourself on the job; wear gloves, eyewear, long sleeves and long trousers

4

3

STEP 3 Use secateurs to remove any lingering flowers and leaves, plus any suckers and growth from the root system below the graft.

Select three or five green and healthy branches as the framework for next season’s growth. Cut off unwanted stems just above an outward-facing bud to encourage growth away from the plant’s centre. Again, cut on an angle.

STEP 4 Apply pea straw mulch around the rose to help the plant retain moisture as the weather warms up. Don’t put the mulch too close to the trunk of the plant, as this might cause rot or mould.

After you’ve applied the mulch, water it in. You can also apply rose fertiliser to an advanced rose bush but, if it’s a new one, wait until it has become established.

Pruning tools

Watch it!

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Pruning tips  Sterilise secateurs after pruning each plant – and after each cut if wood is diseased – with diluted bleach, a few drops of tea-tree oil or disinfectant wipes, to help prevent the spread of diseases.  Prune large branches (more than 10cm diameter) in stages, using the pruning saw on the underside first and then from the top. Repeat until the cuts meet.  Improve the soil and plant health by feeding with an organic-based fertiliser after pruning.  Use pruned stems from plants like hydrangeas and roses to make more plants.

Take cuttings that are three to four nodes long, dip in a rooting hormone, plant in propagating mix and place in a warm, protected spot. ¿

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Learn how to trim trees to keep them strong and shapely, avoid damage and allow for new growth: bunnings.com.au/ howtoprunetrees

2 1 Wells Lamont ‘RoseTender’ pruning gloves, $19.98, I/N: 0036395. 2 Fiskars ‘PowergearX’ telescopic tree pruner, $209, I/N: 3350854. 3 Fiskars ‘SoftGrip’ large bypass pruner, $23.98, I/N: 3350297. 4 Cyclone bypass compound lopper, $49.98, I/N: 3361017. 5 Cyclone straight hedge shears, $39.98, I/N: 3361015. 6 Hortex 325mm heavy duty pruning saw, $9.90, I/N: 3361972. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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AWARDED BEST BR AND FOR PERFORMANCE , RELIAB ILIT Y & SATISFACTION mhiaa.com.au

MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES AIR-CONDITIONERS AUSTRALIA, PTY. LTD.

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Most food scraps can be thrown into indoor or outdoor composters, providing nutrients for your garden

Fix it How to recycle

Check whether your plastic bottles are accepted at a return-and-earn facility

What goes around Recycle everything you can – and nothing you shouldn’t. Here are the key things you need to know to minimise your landfill contribution

G Words Nellie McLaren. Photography Getty Images

one are the days when you’d put something in the bin and promptly forget about it. “People are becoming more aware now that reuse should be their first choice,” says Kirsten Junor, creative director of Reverse Garbage in Sydney (reversegarbage.org.au).

If you can’t reuse something, recycling is the next best thing, but the ins and outs of what can be recycled can be confusing.

Food for the garden Did you know that Australians throw out about 20 per cent of the food we buy each year? And according to the Centre for Organic Research and Education (CORE), about 50 per cent of the rubbish we put in our mixed-waste bins could be turned into compost or mulch and used in gardens.

“Compost is vital in providing essential nutrients and carbon for plant growth; it fertilises the soil and creates a healthy

environment for plants and crops,” says Eric Love, chairman of CORE. “But this organic material also plays a crucial role towards building a greener, cleaner and sustainable environment for future generations.”

Composting options range from a convenient bokashi system that can be kept under your sink to an outdoor bin to which you can also add garden and lawn clippings. If you’d rather not become a composter yourself, consider donating your scraps to a local community garden, or use a service like ShareWaste (sharewaste.com) to connect with composting neighbours.

Know your plastics Plastics can be tricky. There are so many different kinds, from drink bottles to meat trays to soft plastic bags. While all plastic is potentially recyclable (good news!), councils and waste transfer stations differ in what they will and

won’t accept. A general rule of thumb is to look at the triangle symbol. Items marked with 1, 2 and 5 (milk bottles, drink bottles, ice cream containers) are recycled by everyone. Call your local council to find out whether it can recycle items marked 3, 4, 6 and 7 (which includes juice bottles, yoghurt pots, plastic cutlery and garbage  2

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1 Coleman ‘3Sixty Pour’ 1200ml stainless steel thermal bottle, $29.98, I/N: 0043642. 2 Maze 27L medium organic rubbish bags, $8.80/pack of 20, I/N: 4520312. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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PRO TIP

Still confused? There’s an app for that! Download the RecycleSmart app for information on what can be recycled in your area

Top five tips to reduce your household waste

bags). Scrunchable plastic bags (fruit bags and netting, and dry-cleaning bags) can be recycled but usually not through a council-run waste program; instead, bundle them all up and take them to a Redcycle bin, which can found at most supermarkets.

Sort the paper There always seems to be a surfeit of unneeded paper and cardboard lying around the house and most of it can be recycled – with some exceptions. Pizza boxes, for example, need to have their oily lining removed before the rest of the box can go in the recycling. Shredded paper cannot be recycled; use it in your compost instead. Envelopes with plastic windows commonly cause confusion, but these can go into the recycling, as post-consumer paper mills are able to remove small contaminants. Unfortunately, sticky tape is not recyclable, so make sure it’s removed

Read it!

Find more creative ways to lessen your waste and be more sustainable around house and garden: bunnings.com.au/ reducereuseandrecycle

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from boxes and packaging and binned before those items are recycled. Each tonne of paper recycled can save up to 17 mature trees on average, so making the effort is definitely worthwhile.

Take paint away Getting rid of unwanted paint can be tricky – don’t just put it in the bin.

Paintback allows you to drop off most domestic paint products at permanent collection spots across Australia or at selected one-day Bunnings collection events (check your local store on the Bunnings website). The paint and tins are then recycled, significantly reducing landfill. Read more at paintback.com.au.

Making e-waste ethical Electronic waste is an increasing issue, as we regularly trade in obsolete tech for new models, but much of it can be recycled. Mobile Muster is a free service that takes old phones and accessories off your hands and recycles them in a safe and ethical way; visit mobilemuster. com.au to find a drop-off point.

Don’t leave your old TV on the kerb.

Take it, along with old computers, printers and computer parts, to a waste transfer station with an e-waste drop-off point. As per the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme, these products will then be recycled by a government-approved service. u

2. Buy a reusable water bottle Australia has great tap water – make the most of it by filling up a reusable flask to stay hydrated.

3. Rethink paper towels in the kitchen Try washable, reusable cloths instead, or make your own by cutting up an old towel.

4. Buy beauty bars Shampoo and conditioner – plus moisturisers, deodorants and more – can be bought in solid bars (like a cake of soap) rather than liquids, meaning no containers to dispose of.

5. Bin the bag Keep reusable shopping bags with you at all times and look to alternatives such as bioplastic bags or even newpaper to line your rubbish bin at home.

Photography (main) Brigid Arnott, Getty Images

Get creative with your recycling – empty cardboard tubes make great seedling holders

1. Go paperless Receive regular bills and bank statements via email and put a ‘no junk mail’ sticker on your letterbox.

Promotion

Risky business

Our lives run on electricity, but powering our homes safely requires us to be spark-smart

D

Listen to your appliances

espite the well-known dangers of electricity, Australians are too often underestimating or ignoring the risks, with research conducted for Shock Factor showing we’re routinely engaging in dangerous habits. Around 20 Australians die from electrocution every year, but being switched on about the risks is the best way to keep you and your family safe.

Don’t play sparkie Australians love the satisfaction of home repairs, but some tool-wielding DIYers also have an inflated sense of their abilities – mix this with live wires and you’ve got a dangerous combination. Research for Shock Factor reveals that 36 per cent of respondents engaged in repairs to electrical appliances, wiring or power points! The rules are clear: if it’s anything trickier than changing a light bulb, call in a licensed electrician.

Light bulb moment As the old joke goes, there’s nothing simpler than changing a light bulb, yet many of us are doing it wrong by forgetting to turn off the power first. Play it safe by turning power off at the mains, work with dry hands and make sure you’re installing the right type of bulb to reduce the risk of a power overload.

Be waterwise Everyone knows that electricity and water are an unhappy pairing, yet almost half of people surveyed ignored common sense and used appliances in or near water. But it’s not just blasting the hairdryer next to the bath

that’s an issue; working with electrical appliances with wet hands can be just as dangerous – how often have you gone straight from the sink to the kettle without drying off properly?

Most people think of electrical appliances as inherently safe, but anything that uses electricity has a risk. To keep your family safe, be an appliance whisperer; listen out for hissing, crackling or humming noises, watch for sparks or anything unusual, and if in doubt, get it checked out! The same goes for frayed cords or any other visible damage, such as discolouration around the plug and connection points – don’t use the appliance again until it has been fixed or replaced.

Unplug for safety It turns out that 66 per cent of us will leave an appliance on while we leave the room, which is obviously not spark-smart behaviour.

More than that, the experts suggest that we should actually unplug appliances completely, especially in bathrooms or around water, as even turned off, plugged in appliances can pose a risk. And finally, when unplugging, don’t pull it out by the cord!

For more electrical tips and to sign the Shock Factor safety pledge, visit shockfactor.com.au.

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Make it Clever creations

Pegboard, three ways Practical pegboard makes for super simple storage with the visual bonus of a dotty graphic effect

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ugely versatile pegboard is a fabulous solution for restoring order to clutter-attracting spaces, while also working as a display tool. We’ve used this handy material in three ways: as a unique wall surface for catching hallway mess, as an office storage board meets inspiration wall (just in time for tax season!) and to keep tools ordered and accessible.

Pegboard is less than 5mm thick so, regardless of the sheet size, it requires support to prevent bowing. It also needs a little room behind for hooks to slot into the holes, so it’s essential to add framework, either at the back or around the sides. For a large sheet, support the pegboard on a frame attached securely to the wall, either with anchors and bolts into masonry or through the timber wall studs.

IDEA 1

Hallway wall

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To hang a standard sheet of pegboard, cut Sand the pegboard with 180-grit two lengths of pine framing to 1820mm abrasive paper and a sanding block, long and secure each vertically into a wall rounding over the edges and corners stud, about 900mm apart, using three bugle for a smooth finish to ensure the paint batten screws and a drill with a hex head bit. absorbs evenly over the surface.

1830mm x 1220mm  x 4.8mm diagonal pegboard 500ml 3 in 1 primer  sealer undercoat Interior low sheen  paint (we used Taubmans Admiral Blue) 10G x 40mm  countersunk screws 1.2m length  184mm x 19mm dressed pine (for shelf) 200mm pegboard  hooks  Hook for bike

Apply primer with a mini roller and leave to dry. Stir the paint before pouring into the tray, then apply two to three coats, ensuring thick coverage around the edges and leaving to dry between coats.

Employ a second pair of hands to position the sheet onto the wall, setting out the 40mm screws evenly and securing into the pine through existing holes. Finish with a final coat of paint to cover the screws.

5

Use a mitre saw to cut the 184mm-wide pine in half to make a 600mm long shelf. Sand the edges and position on the pegboard using 200mm pegboard hooks. Attach hooks for heavy items, such as a bike, directly into the pine framing using screws. }

Opposite page: Masonite 1830mm x 1220mm x 4.8mm diagonal pegboard, $61.94, I/N: 0244199, painted in Taubmans Endure Interior low sheen paint in Admiral Blue. Zenith zinc plated assorted pegboard hooks kit, $14.70/pack of 47, I/N: 3966089. Zenith 115mm x 175mm zinc plated multi-tool storage hook, $5.24, I/N: 3933155. Dichondra Silver Falls plant in Lotus Collection 35cm herringbone tapered woven planter, $18, I/N: 0096480. Lotus Collection 30cm tapered water hyacinth woven planter, $14, I/N: 0096483. 152cm x 201cm zebra faux hide rug in Black and White, $79, I/N: 0098866. Dog lead, Kmart, Kmart.com.au. Bike, Reid Cycles, reidcycles.com.au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au

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Project and steps photography Natasha Dickins. Photography Cath Muscat, stylist Tilly Roberts. Paint colours may vary on application

TOOLS & MATERIALS

 Safety equipment Measuring tape  and pen Compound  mitre saw Drill with hex head  and driver bits 180-grit sandpaper  with sanding block Mini roller with  two microfibre covers and trays Two 2.1m lengths  70mm x 35mm pine framing 14G x 75mm  bugle-head batten timber screws

PRO TIP

Tip Add felt furniture pads under the timber shelf at the back to help it sit straight and flush against the pegboard

A standard sheet of pegboard is 1830mm x 1220mm wide.

Arrange to have it delivered, trim the pine framing to fit behind and simply hang the board without having to cut it

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Tip

Make it

When painting pegboard, use a roller for even coverage, but avoid overloading with paint to prevent the pegboard holes from clogging. It’s best to use a primer before applying strong colours, although it’s not needed for white

2

Position the pegboard over the pine, edges flush, and attach it from the top with white screws, securing through the existing holes, with three screws evenly spaced down the long sides and two on the short.

3

Smooth along the edges and corners with 180-grit abrasive paper, removing breakout around the screws. Wipe with a clean cloth to remove dust, then use a mini roller to apply two coats of white paint.

4

At the back, on both sides, mark 200mm from the top, fold D hooks over the edge to attach inside the frame with the supplied screws, driving halfway then twisting the D to face upwards, and finish driving the screw.

IDEA 2

Home office display TOOLS & MATERIALS

3m length 42mm  x 19mm dressed pine 1220mm x 915mm  x 4.8mm pegboard, cut in half 20mm white countersunk  timber screws White paint sample pot  2 D hooks  Framing wire 

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Cut the pine to two lengths of 915mm and two of 526mm. Have the pegboard sheet cut in-store or use a handsaw to cut it in half to be 915mm high and 610mm wide, then arrange the pine pieces to fit the pegboard.

5

Thread framing wire through both hooks, doubling it over with 100mm extra, cutting with combination pliers and twisting the excess around both strands to prevent it unravelling. Hang the display on a wall hook to stop it tipping forward.

Above: Ecoply 2400mm x 1200mm x 12mm structural CD plywood, $61, I/N: 0340164. Masonite 1220mm x 915mm x 4.8mm pegboard, $30.44, I/N: 0243224, painted in Dulux sample pot paint in Vivid White, $5.20/100ml, I/N: 1420596. Zenith zinc plated assorted pegboard hooks kit, $14.70/pack of 47, I/N: 3966089. Pinnacle 900mm x 1500mm x 540mm garage workbench, $119, I/N: 2760456. Grunt 300m jute twine, $9.70, I/N: 4310542. Eden 8cm indoor cube ceramic planter in Pink, $4, I/N: 0057484.

Verve Design ‘Hector’ desk lamp, $54.95, I/N: 4371345. Bar stool and all other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au

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Paint colours may vary on application

Safety equipment  Measuring tape and pen  Handsaw  D rill with driver bit 180-grit abrasive paper  with sanding block Cloth  M ini roller with microfibre cover and tray Combination pliers 

75 IDEA 3

Tools organiser TOOLS & MATERIALS

 Safety equipment  Measuring tape and pen  Compound mitre saw Drill with 8G countersinking  and driver bits Random orbital sander  with 60-grit and 180-grit abrasive discs Cloth  Mini roller with microfibre  cover and tray Two 2.4m lengths 89mm  x 19mm dressed pine  30mm timber screws 220mm x 915mm x 4.8mm  1 pegboard D ulux Design coloured chalkboard paint in Mildura  38mm angle brackets

PRO TIP Tip To clean chalkboard paint, never use water.

Instead, use cola (not diet), soaking a clean cloth to rub all over the board

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If the edges don’t line up, use a random orbital sander with 60-grit abrasive discs to smooth back the sides, then finish all over with 180-grit discs, removing any breakout around the screws.

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Cut two pine lengths to 1220mm and two to 877mm to frame behind the pegboard. Butt the short lengths against the long ones at the ends, countersink two holes in each joint. Secure with 30mm screws.

Wipe off dust with a cloth then apply two coats of paint with a mini roller, painting around the edges; leave to dry between coats.

Leave to cure for a few days. Tip: using chalkboard paint lets you mark out where your tools are.

Position the pegboard over the frame with the edges flush, then secure with 30mm screws, drilling into the pine through existing holes.

Space the screws with three on the sides and four on the top and base.

Position the frame against the wall, mark the location of corresponding wall studs along the top and use the supplied screws to attach L-shaped angle brackets inside the frame, then secure the frame to the wall.

Adding tools can make the organiser heavy, so always secure into wall studs.

To wall mount the tool organiser, secure heavy-duty L brackets into the studs, facing up. Employ a second pair of hands to rest the organiser on them while you secure and add brackets along the top and down the sides

Above: Masonite 1220mm x 915mm x 4.8mm pegboard, $30.44, I/N: 0243224, painted in Dulux Design coloured chalkboard paint in Mildura, $46.70/1L, I/N: 1400894.

Zenith zinc plated assorted pegboard hooks kit, $14.70/pack of 47, I/N: 3966089. From left: Craftright 50mm heavy duty G clamp, $4.75, I/N: 5860097. Uni-Pro ‘You Can Do It’ 75mm sash cutter paintbrush, $13.15, I/N: 1660507. Shur-Line 38mm synthetic wall paintbrush, $11.96, I/N: 1670191. Shur-Line 25mm synthetic wall paintbrush, $10.47, I/N: 1670190. Trojan 16oz claw wood hammer, $16.98, I/N: 5560254. Trojan wire brush with scraper, $3.15, I/N: 0093223. Josco 3 row short handle wire brush, $5.81, I/N: 6111879. Uni-Pro 80mm burn off paint scraper, $10.12, I/N: 1670220. Spear & Jackson masonry brush, $21.50 I/N: 5960042. Taskmaster 180mm x 100mm x 6mm steel S hook, $5/pack of 4, I/N: 0059965. Haron score and snap knife, $17.95, I/N: 5761150. Saxon hand cultivator, $3.30, I/N: 3361025. Saxon hand trowel, $3.30, I/N: 3361030. Saxon hand weeder, $3.30, I/N: 3361031. Lufkin 1m/39” bevelled edge folding rule, $20.85, I/N: 5661687. Craftright 32oz rubber mallet, $9.90, I/N: 5560159. Josco small hot bench brush, $10.58, I/N: 6110646. Cyclone stainless steel fork hand tool, $9.98, I/N: 3360486. Paint Partner 24mm x 27m thick masking tape, $5.70/pack of 6, I/N: 1667532. Ultimate Storage 56” 10 drawer tool trolley, $799, I/N: 6120456. Spear & Jackson 275mm pine float, $16.98, I/N: 5960021. Trojan 16oz claw wood hammer, $16.98, I/N: 5560254. Safety Zone ‘Work Tuff’ large leather riggers gloves, $12.95, I/N: 5411010. Grunt 300m natural sisal twine, $10.25, I/N: 4310545. Morgan wooden clothes pegs, $3/pack of 100, I/N: 4510699. Oregano in Northcote Pottery 27cm standard terracotta pot, $8.95, I/N: 2863559. Thyme in 27cm pot, as before. Storage box, stylist’s own. ◆ bunnings

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76

Make it Hall shelf

TOOLS & MATERIALS

Safety equipment  Measuring tape  P encil Compound mitre saw  or handsaw 180-grit sandpaper  with sanding block Two 300mm bar  clamps Clean cloth  D rill driver with 8G countersinking bit Stud finder  Spirit level  8mm-wide  3 paintbrush 1.2m length of  184mm x 19mm x 1.2m premium-grade dressed pine 1.8m length of 

Note The dowel brackets are for decoration only

Entry level Bring order and a welcoming atmosphere to an entrance hall with this easy DIY shelf project

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well-ordered home begins at the threshold, with an uncluttered entryway. This DIY shelf can hold dishes or small baskets, helping to eliminate the chaos of keys and coins, and provides a surface for those pretty little objects that make a space feel like a home.

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Measure and cut both lengths of pine to the preferred length of shelf, to a maximum of 1.2m, with the 89mm-wide piece as the back and the 184mm piece as the shelf. Sand all over using 180-grit abrasive paper with a sanding block.

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Apply adhesive along the bottom face of the back piece of pine. Position the back against the shelf then clamp, wipe away excess with a damp cloth and leave to dry.

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Use the drill with 8G countersinking bit to make three evenly spaced holes along the joint and secure with 30mm screws.

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Apply two coats of clear varnish with a brush, sanding lightly and wiping away the dust between coats and leaving varnish to dry thoroughly.

using supplied applicator, leave to dry then sand smooth and apply another coat of varnish over the shelf, ensuring the timber filler is covered.

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To position the shelf, use a stud finder to locate and mark the wall studs and mark the corresponding points on the back of the shelf. Position the shelf on the wall and check that it’s straight using a spirit level – a second pair of hands will be helpful here. Use the countersinking bit to drill holes into the wall studs and the back of the shelf, then secure with 50mm screws. Cover the screw heads with timber filler

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To make the decorative brackets, use a mitre saw to cut the dowel at 45° into two pieces 260mm long, measuring from the outside of the mitres. Smooth the dowel with 180-grit abrasive paper then prime and apply two coats of paint with a brush and leave to dry.

Position the brackets under the shelf, 100mm from the ends, and secure to the wall and the shelf with pieces of double-sided tape trimmed to fit the dowel. ◆

Project, instructions and steps photography Angela Sibley. Photography Sue Stubbs, stylist Tilly Roberts. Paint colours may vary on application

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89mm x 19mm premium-grade dressed pine Quick set adhesive  8G x 30mm  countersunk-head timber screws Clear varnish  10G x 50mm  countersunk-head timber screws Timber filler  25mm Tasmanian  oak dowel Primer  Water-based  enamel paint (we used Dulux Baltica) Double-sided  mounting tape

SAFETY TIP

Before

Attach L brackets to the back of the robe and secure to the wall with appropriate fasteners

Wardrobe

$25

Revamp cost

$205

For a similar wall colour, try Taubmans Deeply Blue

Best on show

Past its use-by date, an antique wardrobe sheds its dusty old doors to be repurposed as a pretty and functional display unit bunnings.com.au

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79

Make it Wardrobe makeover

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STEPS

ur love of built-ins makes an old freestanding wardrobe a bit redundant, but this solid timber piece – bought on Gumtree for $25 – had a charm worth preserving. By removing the doors and original hardware and installing shelves, it’s been transformed into a light and airy display cabinet, ideal for storing linens. The transformed unit is finished in velvety-smooth chalk paint – white on the outside, with a contrasting grey on the interior – which lightened the previously dark timber, giving it a beautifully touchable texture.

TOOLS & MATERIALS

Project, instructions and step photography Natasha Dickins.

Photography Cath Muscat, stylist Tilly Roberts. Paint colours may vary on application.

Safety equipment  Small screwdrivers  Hammer  Random orbital  sander with 180-grit sanding disc Sanding block with  180-grit sandpaper Three microfibre mini  rollers with trays Framing square  Measuring tape  Drill with driver bit  Compound mitre saw  or handsaw Small bullet-head nails  Rust-Oleum Chalked  ultra matt paint in Linen White R ust-Oleum Chalked

ultra matt paint in Aged Grey nterior small cracks  I filler, 330ml Rust-Oleum Chalked  protective topcoat in Matt Clear 30mm bugle-head  screws 1.8m length of 42mm  x 19mm DAR pine, cut to six lengths to the depth of your cabinet Three SpecRite  1200mm x 300mm x 18mm hevea panels Press-in screw caps  in white T wo Prestige shell pull knobs in Black

On wall: Easycraft ‘EasyRegency’ 2400mm x 1200mm x 9mm primed MDF interior wall lining panels, $82.29, I/N: 0330827.

Top shelf: Smart Home Products 120cm x 160cm throw rugs in Lecce, $11.98, I/N: 0086768, and Valletta, $11.98, I/N: 0086765. Books, stylist’s own. Second shelf: Queen size sheet set in Midnight, and striped duvet cover, Sheridan, sheridan. com.au. Vase and candles, stylist’s own. Third shelf: Smart Home Products 120cm x 160cm throw rugs in Grenada, $11.98, $I/N: 0086769, Bari, $11.98, I/N: 0086766, and Seville, $11.98, I/N: 0086763. Blue pillowcase and queen size sheet set in Midnight, Sheridan. Bottom shelf: Allenby throw and bed cover in Pacific Blue, Sheridan. Vase and books, stylist’s own. On floor: ‘Nara’ 160cm x 230cm polyester rug in Marrakesh Ivory, $129, I/N: 0067526. Smart Home Products ‘Lisbon’ 120cm x 160cm throw rug, $11.98, I/N: 0086764. Flexi Storage natural water hyacinth 270mm x 280mm x 270mm compact clever cube insert, $9, I/N: 2582962. Aquasmart 2.348sqm hybrid vinyl planks in Tasmanian Oak, $92, I/N: 0066640. Clifton cushion, Sheridan. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Use a small screwdriver to remove the doors and hinges, drawers and hardware such as the hanging rail. Check the structure of the wardrobe for stability – this wardrobe required a couple of nails to reattach some trim.

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Using a random orbital sander with 180-grit abrasive paper, sand all surfaces, inside and out.

Use a sanding block for hard-to-reach areas.

Tip: The paint we used has a built-in primer so the varnish doesn’t have to be removed completely. Simply sand all over to roughen the surfaces so paint adheres.

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Apply the first coat of paint with a mini roller, painting outside first and working down from the top to avoid drips. Use a different tray and roller for the contrasting colour, sealing the rollers with plastic wrap between coats.

EXPERT TIPS

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Use the supplied spatula to fill scratches, dents and screw holes with filler, leaving it to dry before sanding smooth with the sanding block.

Apply a second and third coat of paint if needed, finishing with a protective top coat.

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Inside the robe, mark 20mm down from each screw tip, then attach one pine bracket at a time.

Position base of bracket on the marks and against the back of the robe then push it onto the tips and complete driving the screws from the outside.

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On the outsides from base up, measure and mark points 350mm apart, or divide space by four to have three evenly spaced shelves. For each, mark points 50mm and 240mm from back of robe to drill 30mm screws, so tips protrude inside by 2-3mm.

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Measure the width inside the robe and subtract 10mm to cut the hevea panels with a mitre or handsaw, then paint. Tap screw caps onto screws with hammer. Measure out the position of the new handles and attach with the supplied screws. ◆

Applying the first coat of chalk paint makes scratches, dents and holes more visible so you can smooth over them with timber filler.

Sand, then apply the second coat of paint.

Measure the inside width of your robe, then subtract 10mm for the length of your shelves so there’s room to manoeuvre them onto the pine brackets.

To install, move them into the robe diagonally, working down from the top.

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Wardrobe storage for any space

Multistore 2 Adjustable Shelves and 4 Jumbo Drawer Insert 0027261

411

$

Multistore 2 Hanging Rail Insert 0027280 $282, Multistore 2 Shelf 4 Jumbo Basket Insert 0027263 $526, Multistore Corner Shelf Insert 0027266 $526.

We can help you tailor wardrobe storage to suit any size bedroom with the range at Bunnings.

You can make the most of your space with freestanding, built-in and walk-in storage solutions at warehouse prices. Check out our range in-store or at bunnings.com.au

Some advertised products may not be available in-store but may be ordered.

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81

Make it Growth marker

Tall story This colourful height chart is a great way to record your children’s milestones

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easuring your child against a height chart is a fun way to teach little ones about numbers while you track their growth. This chart has plenty of space to record names and dates as they age.

Try it

TOOLS & MATERIALS

 Safety equipment  Measuring tape  Pencil  Painter’s tape Mini paint  roller with four microfibre covers and a tray  Drop sheet  Small paintbrush Drill with  driver bit  Spirit level Marker pen   4 05mm x 18mm x 1.2m pine utility panel Paint in four  shades (we used Taubmans

Project and stylist Tilly Roberts. Photography Cath Muscat.

Paint colours may vary on application

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To paint the pine panel, mark horizontal lines at 300mm intervals, then centre a strip of painter’s tape over each line. Apply the lightest colour first then wrap the roller cover in plastic wrap to remove it from the roller, and wash the tray. Put on a new cover to apply the next colour, then repeat, changing the cover and washing the tray to apply three coats of each, leaving to dry between each. Remove the tape when the painting is complete, holding the end at 45 degrees to the surface to pull it off.

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Choose bright, engaging colours, but avoid anything too dark, as it will make the names and dates hard to read

Japanese Koi, Orange Ice, Mandarin Orange and Marblebar) Craftwood  numbers (we used three packs of 50 to get 14 zeros) 250ml sample  pot in White  PVA adhesive 2 D rings  with supplied screws, fasteners suited to your wall type (plasterboard or masonry anchors)

From the numbers, choose 14 zeros, eight ones, two each of four, five and six, and one

each of two, three, seven, eight and nine. Put them on a drop sheet and use the small brush to paint the face and edges white; leave to dry.

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To paint the ruler, from the base, mark 10mm intervals along the left edge. Paint a white line 5mm wide x 10mm long on each mark, skipping the 50mm intervals. At every 100mm, make the marks 10mm wide x 15mm thick.

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From the base, arrange numbers from 40 to 160, positioning them in line with the omitted 50mm intervals. Apply adhesive to the backs, position in place and leave to dry.

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On the back of the height chart, measure 300mm from the top to attach D rings on either side with the supplied screws. Measure and mark 400mm from the floor, position the base of the chart against this to mark the corresponding position of the D rings, install the wall fasteners and hang the chart, using a spirit level to check it is straight. The base of the chart should sit exactly 400mm from the floor.

Safety tip: check the weight of the chart and buy the corresponding anchors for your wall.

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Use an oil-based permanent marker to write names and dates directly onto the chart. ◆

405mm x 18mm x 1.2m pine utility panel, $26, I/N: 0019144. Taubmans 250ml sample paint pots in Japanese Koi, Orange Ice, Mandarin Orange and Marblebar, $5.73 each.

Boyle 0-9 craftwood numbers, $6.99/pack of 50, I/N: 1662391, painted in Taubmans 250ml sample paint pot in White, $5.73, I/N: 1540711. Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ 33cm x 37cm x 33cm premium fabric insert in Blush Pink, $10.35, I/N: 0082385. Mirabella children’s LED nightlight in Cloud or Star, $15 each, I/N: 0107213 (available July). ‘Stars’ 230cm x 160cm heat set polypropylene rug, $79, I/N: 0101492 (available July). 85mm x 12mm x 2.4m Tasmanian oak colonial skirting, $20.86, I/N: 0070150, painted in Taubmans White. Books and toys, Kmart, kmart.com.au. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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82

Plant pick

Ravishing roses Name: Rosa spp.

What they look like Gorgeous blooms in white and shades of red, pink, yellow, orange and lilac (or sometimes multicoloured) are held above serrated leaves and, in most cases, thorny branches. Roses come in various forms, growing as shrubs, climbers or ground cover, and add romance to the garden.

Where they grow Roses can be grown in most climates, from cold areas to the tropics. Humid climates can cause challenges, but roses are always worth the effort. Plant them in the garden or in pots, where they will receive at least six hours of full sun each day.

Bush rose

Climbing rose

Large clusters of blooms make these a dramatic addition to the garden

Climbers can work as seasonal screening, letting light through in winter.

Standard rose

Miniature rose

Budded onto a tall stem, these elegant bushes are great for a formal garden.

Of petite scale, with blooms to match, miniature roses make lovely edging plants.

How to grow them Plant bare-rooted roses in winter (or potted roses year round) in well-drained soil, enriched with composted cow manure. Cover the surrounding soil with an organic mulch, like pea straw. Feed at the beginning of spring, summer and autumn with a specialised rose fertiliser. Check for black spot on leaves and treat with an appropriate fungicide.

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

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Words Tammy Huynh. Photography (bush rose) Getty Images, Alamy Stock Photo

Why we love them A vibrant display of elegant blooms can grace the garden from spring to autumn, often accompanied by perfume. Roses can be used to complement any landscape style; train climbers to sprawl over arches, shape hybrid tea or floribunda roses, trim into hedges or enjoy as a feature plant.