home MY
R E N O VAT I O N | B U I L D I N G | I N S P I R AT I O N
MAKE AN
ENTRANCE
tips to update your front patio
BUILDING QUALITY &
the key to GREAT CABINETRY ISSUE 170, OCTOBER 2026 SUNSHINE COAST >> 100% LOCALLY OWNED
CREATE YOUR OWN
OUT D OOR OASIS
Genuine Italian Commercial Quality
SUNCOAST CENTRE
ACRES NOOSA
Cnr of Main Drive & Nicklin Way, WARANA. Phone 5493 4277
Shop 1/37 Gibson Road, NOOSAVILLE. Phone 5449 9336
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18
FROM THE EDITOR Spring is well and truly here, and this month’s edition of My Home has plenty of ideas for making the most of it. And what better place to start than at the front door? In our outdoors section, we take a look at the home entrance and how a few simple updates and fixes (and a splash of style) can make all the difference. Speaking of outdoors, we also share expert advice on budgeting for a pool and find out exactly what it costs to build one in 2026. We also share tips on how to create a surrounding space for your pool that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but comfortable. In our home design section, we explore breezeways, which are making a comeback for good reason. Plus, we have all of your favourite features, including home style (with some great ideas on how to brighten your living room!) and finishing touches. Until next month, happy renovating.
home
26
28 COVER STORY
06
LESSONS LEARNT
08
FEATURE
10
STYLED YOUR WAY
12
THE COLOUR EDIT
14
THE UNEXPECTED
16
FINISHING TOUCHES
22
Cabinets for your home Furniture planning
MY
R E N O VAT I O N | B U I L D I N G | I N S P I R AT I O N
MAKE AN
ENTRANCE
tips to update your front patio
Clark Rubber The living room
BUILDING QUALITY &
the key to
GREAT CABINETRY ISSUE 170, OCTOBER 2026 SUNSHINE COAST >> 100% LOCALLY OWNED
ON THE COVER
Thanks to Dwyer Quality Homes for supplying this great shot. You can find out more about their work on page six.
Using blue-grey tones Breezeways
Lounge about: the media room
If you would like to advertise in the next edition please contact Emma 5444 0152. Sales: sales@myweeklypreview.com.au 4 My Home | October 2026
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DQH FEATURE //
THE DETAIL BEHIND GOOD CABINETRY Great cabinetry is about far more than what you see. Dwyer Quality Homes shares why early planning, clever storage and trusted trades can make all the difference to the finished home.
I
t might be the colour, stone benchtop or beautifully curved island that first catches your eye, but some of the most important details in good cabinetry are far less obvious. There’s the hardware hidden behind doors, the way drawers run, how cabinetry meets walls and flooring and whether storage has been designed around everyday life. All of this determines if a home can function well. For Dwyer Quality Homes managing director Alex Dwyer, those details are also a reminder of why the people involved in creating a home matter. The Sunshine Coast builder has worked with local cabinet maker Kitchen Contours since 2004, when the businesses completed their first project together. More than two decades later, the relationship is still going strong. “They have continued to deliver a high-quality finished product to site time and time again, with minimal
6 My Home | October 2026
call back on anything they install,” Mr Dwyer said. For DQH, which has been building homes for Sunshine Coast families for more than 40 years, long-term relationships with trades and suppliers are an important part of its projects. Mr Dwyer said reliability, communication, time management and the quality of the finished product were all critical. That collaboration begins well before cabinetry arrives on site. “Cabinetry design is considered right from point of sale,” he said. New-home consultants discuss cabinetry requirements with clients before contracts are signed and preliminary drawings are prepared ahead of the selections process. It means clients can consider not only colours, handles, laminates and benchtops, but how each area needs to function. Plans can then be adjusted to suit the household before detailed cabinetry drawings are returned for final approval and construction.
It is an early conversation worth having because good cabinetry, Mr Dwyer said, is not necessarily defined by its appearance. Quality features such as softclose hinges and quality drawer runners are standard in every DQH build, reflecting the company’s focus on cabinetry that functions well and stands up to everyday use. DQH
currently favours Laminex products for its laminate selections and Alpha Surfaces for stone benchtops, with Mr Dwyer recommending homeowners invest in quality finishes, particularly in areas that will work hard every day. And while the kitchen remains a major focus, increasingly sophisticated cabinetry is working its My Weekly Preview
way throughout the home. The laundry, once largely treated as a utilitarian space, is receiving particular attention. Washing machines and dryers are being tucked beneath benches to increase usable work surfaces, while overhead cupboards, integrated linen and broom storage and dedicated spaces for upright rechargeable vacuums are making the room more practical. Aesthetically, many homeowners are also carrying their kitchen finishes through to the laundry, bathrooms and other built-in areas to create greater consistency throughout the home.
Walk-in robes are becoming more thought out, while the butler’s pantry introduces additional cabinetry and storage. Some homeowners are including extensive overhead cupboards and enclosed pantry storage, or moving the fridge into the butler’s pantry to maintain cleaner lines in the main kitchen. When it comes to style, Coast homeowners are becoming increasingly confident with colour. “Clients are getting braver with their colour selections,” Mr Dwyer said. Warmer greens paired with soft brass or bronze tapware are popular, while aqua blues and whites are becoming less dominant. Feature colours teamed with timber tones that complement the flooring also create richer, more layered interiors. DQH’s 3D visualisation technology allows clients to see those combinations before committing, which Mr Dwyer said helped remove some of the uncertainty surrounding bolder selections. There is also more scope for cabinetry itself to become a design feature. Curves are proving popular in breakfast bars and vanities, while stone is extending from benchtops
onto splashbacks. Integrated LED lighting is used beneath overhead cupboards, along the front of breakfast bars and around vanities, while fluted-glass doors with backlighting add another layer. For a custom builder, unusual requests also require trades willing to find a way to make an idea work. “It’s very rare for Kitchen Contours to come back with a ‘no’ that just can’t be done,” Mr Dwyer said. “It’s a call and a discussion throwing around ideas and, more often than not, a good solution or compromise.” For anyone planning a new build, Mr Dwyer’s advice is to think about cabinetry early rather than treating it as a finishing decision. A quality kitchen benchtop is one upgrade he believes is worth prioritising where the budget allows. Most importantly, think beyond how cabinetry will photograph on completion day. The best decisions are the ones that make a home easier and comfortable to live in. Visit dqh.com.au
FIVE CABINETRY DETAILS WORTH PLANNING Start early – Think about cabinetry during the initial design stage so storage and functionality can be built into the floorplan rather than added later. Look inside – Quality hinges, drawer runners and internal fittings can be just as important as the doors and finishes you see. Design for real life – Consider where appliances, cleaning equipment, linen and everyday items will actually live. Invest where it counts – Durable benchtops, hardware and high-use surfaces can be worth allocating more of the budget to. Think beyond the kitchen – Coordinating cabinetry through laundries, bathrooms, robes and other built-in spaces can improve both storage and the overall flow of the home.
4 0 Y E A R S S T R O N G . B U I LT T O L A S T
“
We bu i l t w i t h Dwy e r a n d l o ve d o u r e x p e r i e n c e s o m u c h we are l o o k i n g t o d o i t a g a i n . Co u l d n ’ t r e c o m m e n d Ka t i e enou g h , sh e t a ke s t h e t i m e t o g et t o k n o w y o u a n d rea l l y wa n t s t o h e l p s e e y o u r d r e a m c o m e t o l i f e .
“
K RY S TA L T
DWYER QUALITY HOMES
5436 7900 My Weekly Preview
sales@dqh.com.au
dqh.com.au
256 Nicklin Way, Kawana Waters
K AT I E B A I L E Y N E W H O M E C O N S U LTA N T
My Home | October 2026 7
positions and the amount of usable wall space. CHECK THE SPACE AROUND IT You need to be able to pull out a dining chair without hitting a wall, and kitchen stools should not block a main walkway. Bedroom doors also need to open without striking a bedside table. As a practical guide, aim for about 900mm around busy areas where possible, particularly behind dining chairs and through main walkways.
LESSONS THE MISTAKE: PLANNING ROOMS WITHOUT FURNITURE
CONSIDER DOOR AND WINDOW POSITIONS Large windows, sliding doors and multiple entry points can make it difficult to position a bed, sofa or television. Check door swings carefully, including wardrobes and ensuites, and make sure furniture will not restrict access or cover power points, airconditioning outlets or vents.
MEASURE WHAT YOU OWN Do not rely on general furniture symbols shown on a plan. Measure the sofa, dining table, beds, desks and
DESIGN AROUND THE FOCAL POINT Decide what each room is organised around. In a living room, it might be the view, fireplace or television. In a bedroom, it is usually the bed. Once the main piece is positioned, secondary furniture and lighting can be planned around it.
learnt
A room can appear generous on a floorplan but feel cramped once the furniture arrives. Testing the layout with real dimensions helps you find tight walkways, blocked doors and pieces that just don’t fit – before it’s too late. storage pieces you plan to keep, then draw them to scale. Even a small difference in sofa depth or bed width can affect circulation, power point
TEST FLEXIBLE LAYOUTS A study that could become a guest room still needs space for a bed, while a playroom that may become a second living area in the future will need suitable walls, power and lighting. Draw two or three possible furniture plans to check whether the room can genuinely adapt.
WORTH CONSIDERING Use painter’s tape to mark the footprint of large furniture on the floor before buying or building. It provides a clearer sense of scale than measurements alone and quickly shows whether walkways will feel too tight.
Transform your kitchen with replacement doors, drawer fronts, benchtop and splashback. SAVE - on the cost of a new kitchen by keeping existing cabinetry/layout. HUGE RANGE - of the latest door styles, colours, handles and benchtops. AUSTRALIAN MADE - doors and cabinets plus a 10 year warranty of products and workmanship warranty.
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CABINET MAKERS KITCHEN MANUFACTURERS BESPOKE JOINERY NEW BUILDS RENOVATIONS COMMERCIAL PROJECTS When you choose FORESHORE KITCHENS, you can expect professionalism, attention to detail and customer service that will put a smile on your face. We only work with industry-leading suppliers like Caesarstone, Polytec, Quantum Quartz and more.
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6/22-24 Link Crescent, Coolum Beach 5372 9437 | foreshorekitchens@iinet.net.au | foreshorekitchens.com.au
CLARK RUBBER FEATURE //
THE ART OF
custom
COMFORT
From custom cushions to outdoor furniture, Clark Rubber’s made-toorder service helps create pieces that fit your space, style and needs. Read on to find out more.
T
he best spaces are not created from one-size-fits-all solutions. They are shaped around the way we live, relax and entertain — whether that is a comfortable window seat, refreshed outdoor setting, custom caravan mattress or the perfect cushion for an awkwardly shaped corner. At Clark Rubber, their made-toorder service helps customers turn those ideas into practical, beautifully finished pieces designed specifically for their space. Here are their expert tips. BRING YOUR IDEA IN STORE Creating something custom can feel overwhelming, particularly when there are fabrics, measurements,
10 My Home | October 2026
foam types and finishing details to consider. Customers can bring their existing cushions into a participating Clark Rubber store or show the team photos of the space they are looking to transform. From there, they can discuss how the piece will be used, the look they want to achieve and the level of comfort and support required. Whether you are refreshing a lounge, updating dining chairs, creating an outdoor daybed or fitting out a caravan, campervan or boat,
the team will guide you through the process from beginning to end. CHOOSE A FABRIC THAT WORKS AS HARD AS YOU DO Fabric plays an important role in both the appearance and performance of a custom-made cushion. A fabric that looks beautiful in a formal sitting room may not be the best choice for a busy family lounge, pet-friendly home or outdoor entertaining area. Through Clark Rubber’s partnership with Warwick Fabrics, customers can explore an extensive collection of colours, patterns, textures and contemporary weaves. Warwick offers more than 5000 fabric designs and colours, with options developed for demanding indoor and outdoor environments. For high-use indoor settings, durability, colourfastness and stain resistance are important considerations. Families and pet owners may benefit from performance fabrics designed to withstand everyday activity while remaining comfortable and stylish. Outdoor cushions require additional protection from the elements. The team can help customers identify suitable materials based on where the cushions will be placed, how frequently they will be used and the
“Customers can explore an extensive collection of colours, patterns, textures and contemporary weaves” conditions they are likely to face. With options ranging from timeless neutrals to bold statement patterns, customers can create something that complements their existing decor or completely redefines their space. FIND THE RIGHT LEVEL OF COMFORT What is inside a cushion matters just as much as the fabric surrounding it. The right foam should be selected according to your cushion’s purpose. A decorative back cushion, frequently used dining seat and supportive caravan mattress will each require different levels of density, firmness and resilience. Clark Rubber has decades of experience working with foam. Their in-store experts can recommend an option suited to the intended application and help create a piece that delivers the right combination of My Weekly Preview
comfort, support and durability. Rather than settling for a standard size or replacing an entire setting, customers can refresh existing furniture with new foam cut to suit their personal requirements. It is a practical way to extend the life of a much-loved piece while improving its comfort, as well as its appearance. ADD THE FINISHING TOUCH The final details can completely change the character of a cushion. Straight-edge stitching offers a clean and understated appearance, while topstitching creates a more contemporary look and can provide additional seam strength for frequently used cushions. Piping can define the cushion’s shape and introduce a complementary or contrasting colour. For a more tailored result, French seams and tailored edging can add structure, sharper corners and a sophisticated finish. These choices may appear small, but they allow customers to create something that feels genuinely personal. The team can explain the available
options and recommend a finish that complements the selected fabric, cushion shape and overall style. DESIGNED BY YOU, MADE FOR YOU Clark Rubber’s made-to-order service combines quality materials, customcut foam and specialist guidance in one convenient in-store experience. The process can be as simple as three steps: choose your fabric, choose your foam and choose your finish. From revitalising old cushions to creating an entirely new piece, customers have the freedom to select the shape, comfort, colour and finishing details that work for them. The result is not simply another cushion; it is a considered solution created for a particular space and the people who use it. Bring your cushion, measurements, inspiration images or ideas into your local participating Clark Rubber store and speak with the team about bringing your made-to-order project to life. Visit Clark Rubber, Nicklin Way, Bokarina to compare foam, fabric and custom-cut options or visit clarkrubber.com.au.
HOW TO: CREATE A READING NOOK Start with the right spot – An unused corner, window seat or built-in bench can all work well. Check the light, nearby power points and how the space feels at different times of day. Create comfortable support – A custom foam seat and angled backrest can provide better support than loose cushions alone, particularly for a nook that will be used regularly. Choose fabric for everyday life – Consider who will use the nook and how often. In family homes, durable, easy-care fabrics are often the most practical choice. Add the finishing touches – A lamp, small table, throw and basket for books can make the nook more comfortable and easier to use. Speak with the Clark Rubber team about the foam, fabric and finishing options best suited for your space.
Let us create your dream space with our made to order service. You can create your project in 3 easy steps: Choose your
Choose your
Choose your
FABRIC
FOAM
FINISH
Clark Rubber Kawana 5493 7355 386 Nicklin Way, QLD 4575 My Weekly Preview
My Home | October 2026 11
STYLED
your WAY
The Clark Crab sculpture is crafted from polyresin material in a stunning gold finish, Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre.
THE LIVING ROOM We’ve rounded up three popular design directions, each with its own personality, palette and finishing touches to help you restyle your living space your way.
The Book Rest LED lamp will be a talking point in your living space. Use it to store your favourite title. It’s from Coast Store, Cotton Tree.
We love the elegant Josephine framed canvas from Domayne, with its rich terracotta tones and textured brushstrokes.
This pop-of-colour Maisie cushion from Kas Australia brings a joyful feel to any space. Sophisticated and neutral, the Giselle fawn table lamp is stylish yet practical. It’s from Adairs.
The Atlas cushions from Pillow Talk blend coastal and rustic vibes with their textured look and feel.
This gorgeous clam shell is the perfect sculptured piece for the TV cabinet or bookshelf. It’s from Adairs.
In a classic oil painting style, the Junee natural frame canvas print depicts an ornate vase on a table, holding a summery arrangement of florals and fruit. It’s from Coast Store, Cotton Tree.
With subtle texture, the Waves side table from Domayne is crafted from magnesium oxide and will add a mix of architecture and warmth to your room.
COASTAL Keep things light and relaxed for this look, with sun-washed colours, natural fibres, pale timbers and soft layers of blue, green and sandy neutrals.
COTTAGE CHARM Mix gentle florals, checks and botanical motifs with warm timber, ceramics and collected pieces for a look that feels comfortable and lived in.
RESTRAINED Pare the room back with a simple palette, clean-lined furniture and organic, basic forms. Then build interest through texture, shape and a few carefully chosen pieces.
12 My Home | October 2026
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• Elevating Homes • Exceeding Expectations
Create the home you’ve always imagined. ★★★★★ “An amazing transformation of our Mooloolaba apartment. Where other contractors felt it couldn’t be done in budget, the Elite team took it on with confidence — updates and photos the whole way.” Scott, Mooloolaba (apartment full transformation)
QBCC Licence: 15512517
The Sunshine Coast ’s Boutique Renovation Builder
CALL BARRY OR BEN DIRECT ON 0433 859 854 go.eliterenovationsolutions.com.au
KITCHEN RENOVATIONS / BATHROOM RENOVATIONS / WHOLE HOME RENOVATIONS / EXTENSIONS & GRANNY FLATS
THE
colour EDIT
A fresh look at the hues making themselves at home.
BLUE GREYS
Calm, timeless and easy to scheme, blue greys bring a cooler edge to the classic grey palette. From soft, misty shades to deeper storm-inspired tones, they work inside and out, pairing naturally with crisp white, weathered timber, stone and greenery.
HOW TO USE IT 1. Consider the light: Blue undertones can become more noticeable in rooms with limited natural light, so always test the colour before committing. 2. Warm it up: Timber, tan leather and warm white help balance cooler blue-grey tones. 3. Take it outdoors: Blue greys suit fencing, exterior cladding, cabinetry and front doors as well as interior walls.
14 My Home | October 2026
shop h the h llook! k A blue-grey rug introduces subtle colour while still working as a neutral. Pair it with a light sofa, weathered timber and soft white furnishings for a calm and comfortable living space. We like the Formation 99 Blue from Choices Flooring.
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paint it!
Haymes Paint – Sonora Sea
Dulux – Class Blue A mid-tone grey with a clear blue influence, Class Blue can be used as either a main wall or feature colour inside and out. Pair it with crisp white or deeper charcoal tones for a clean, contemporary scheme.
A dark grey with blue undertones, Sonora Sea creates a strong, sophisticated finish. Use it on cabinetry, feature walls or exterior details, balanced with pale timber and softer neutrals.
product alert! Taubmans – Grey Blue
An earthy, mid-strength tone that adds subtle depth and warmth. This colour is ideal for balancing cool natural light and it pairs well with organic materials like linen, wood and leather.
COLORBOND fencing combines a classic profile with durability and lowmaintenance appeal. The range features an array of colours including Ironstone, Bluegum and Woodland Grey (pictured). It’s a great way to bring the sophisticated blue-grey tone to outdoor spaces. The hues also pair well with stone, brick, timber and established greenery. Talk to the expert team at Metroll Sunshine Coast to find the right option for your home.
SOM E T H I N G BET T E R IS COMING. A B E T T E R S PAC E . A B E T T E R S TO N E .
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|
B E T T E RS TO N E . C O M . AU
My Home | October 2026 15
THE
unexpected
The overlooked spaces, clever ideas and design details transforming modern homes.
BREEZEWAYS
IMAGE: WAYNE BARBE
Once a practical feature of Queensland homes, breezeways are now finding new relevance in contemporary design.
Breezeway House by Majstorovic Architecture.
WHY WE’RE PAYING ATTENTION A breezeway is essentially a covered, open or semi-open passage that connects different parts of a home while allowing air and light to move through. In modern houses, they are increasingly being used to separate bedroom wings from living areas, link a main residence with a studio or garage, or create a transition between indoors and the garden. For coastal homes in particular, the appeal is obvious. Positioned correctly, a breezeway can help capture prevailing winds and encourage natural cross-ventilation, reducing the reliance on closed, air-conditioned spaces.
WHAT WORKS The best breezeways begin with orientation. Simply creating an open passage does not guarantee airflow, so its position needs to respond to the site, surrounding buildings and direction of the breezes. Protection from the elements matters too. Deep roof overhangs, screens, battens and planting can help provide shade and shelter while maintaining airflow. DESIGN DETAILS WORTH USING Timber battens can provide privacy without closing the space completely, while large openings at either end help frame views. A breezeway can also double as an informal sitting area when made slightly wider, with a built-in bench or simple outdoor furniture. Using the same flooring or material palette as adjoining rooms can help the transition feel intentional rather than disconnected.
WORTH CONSIDERING • Orientation to prevailing breezes. • Deep eaves or covered rooflines. • Screening for privacy and weather protection. • Slip-resistant, outdoor-suitable flooring. • Drainage for wind-driven rain. • Wider layouts that can double as a sitting space.
WHERE BEAUTIFUL HOMES COME TOGETHER. DESIGN MANUFACTURE INSTALL From kitchens and bathrooms to laundries, wardrobes and custom storage, Askin Cabinets brings more than 50 years of Sunshine Coast experience to every space.
askin cabinets
VISIT OUR CALOUNDRA SHOWROOM 5491 2765 | askincabinets.com.au 4 Industrial Avenue, Caloundra 4551
QBCC 742429 HIA 956774
16 My Home | October 2026
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You eat, wear and wash natural and organic ... sleep it too
HAND CRAFTED IN OUR DOJO Beds, Mattresses and Sofa Beds Handcrafted Locally using Quality Natural Materials
Open Thursday, Friday, 10am to 4pm | Saturday 10am to 2pm By Appointment Mon, Tues, Wed, Sunday , and public holidays Unit 9, Jasm Place, 47/49 Claude Boyd Parade, Corbould Park, Caloundra sales@zenbeds.com.au | (07) 5438 0560 | zenbeds.com.au
Visit our Website
HOME
design
COOROY HOUSE BY HENRY BENNETT & DAN WILSON. IMAGE: YASEERA MOOSA
OPEN DOORS BRING PLENTY OF INSPIRATION
A
private home tucked into the Pomona landscape and an award-winning architectural project will offer design lovers a rare chance to look beyond the front door when Sunshine Coast Open House returns this October. Pomona House by Hive Architecture and Bombala by Sealand Architects, winner of the 2024 Gabriel Poole Award for Building of the Year, are among several buildings joining the program for the first time. This year’s event will also place a particular focus on public art, gardens and cultural spaces, recognising the role they play in enriching everyday life,
strengthening community identity and creating places that endure for future generations.The theme for 2026 is Sustainable Inclusive Design, with the program spanning private homes, public buildings, gardens and community spaces from Caloundra to the Noosa hinterland. Other first-time inclusions include the Permaculture Noosa Community Pavilion at Cooroy Community Gardens, 62 Tallowwood Place by Matthew Noffke Architects, the new Avani Mooloolaba and Sunshine Coast Grammar School’s Forest Glen campus. They join returning favourites, including Cooroy House, Moon Mountain Garden, Kite House, Alsahwa Estate, Alfredson’s Joinery, Pãn Pottery Studio and SALTAIR Display Village. For anyone planning a renovation or new build, the appeal goes beyond simply seeing inside properties that are normally off limits. Moving through a finished home can reveal things that are difficult to appreciate from plans or photographs alone: how rooms relate to each other, where views have been framed, how natural light moves through a space and the way materials, orientation and
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18 My Home | October 2026
We’ve g ot y ou covered!
0403 351 950 vc@versatilecoatings.com.au versatilecoatings.com.au My Weekly Preview
OPEN HOUSE AT A GLANCE When: October 16 to 25 Sustainable Inclusive Design Forum: Noosa Arts Theatre, Friday, October 16 Buildings weekend: Saturday, October 24 – southern Sunshine Coast Sunday, October 25 – northern Sunshine Coast Cost: Buildings are free to visit. IMAGE: CAM MURCHISON
landscaping influence how a home feels. Multi-award-winning local architect and Sunshine Coast Open House ambassador Noel Robinson says the event celebrates design that responds directly to its surroundings. “At the event’s heart is a commitment to excellence in design, that responds to climate, connects to Country and reflects the distinct character of our beach-to-bush landscape,” he says. “It reminds us that thoughtful design can strengthen community, enhance wellbeing and enrich everyday life.” The program has grown considerably since Sunshine Coast Open House began in 2017, with more than 250 buildings across the Sunshine Coast and Noosa regions opening their doors during the past decade. Alongside the building tours, this year’s program includes the Sustainable Inclusive Design Forum, Ask a Designer sessions, exhibitions, architectural photography workshops and guided walking tours. For homeowners, it is an opportunity to gather ideas at full scale – seeing not just what good design looks like, but how it works.
POMONA HOUSE
R
aw materials, open space and a strong connection to the landscape sit at the heart of Pomona House by Hive Architecture. Designed by architect Damian Goode and built by Envi Construction, the home was inspired by its owners’ love of raw materials and open space.
The central living area forms the heart of the house and is designed to connect with outdoor spaces on both sides of the property. The main bedroom and additional bedroom wings extend away from this central space in opposite directions, following the ridgeline of the land. Surrounded by natural beauty,
Also on the program: Ask a Designer sessions, exhibitions, walking tours, photography workshops and various community events. Visit: sunshinecoastopenhouse. com.au
the design uses simple architectural moves to celebrate its country setting and create a close relationship between the house and landscape.
Pomona House will open to Sunshine Coast Open House visitors for the first time in 2026.
Creating Award Winning Kitchens & Bathrooms QBCC: 15332543
Designers: Alan Schull & Chris Schull for Kitchen Shop Qld
Kitchen Shop Qld now on the coast for 26 years providing full Kitchen and Bathroom renovations
For on site consultation & measure To book appointments go to web site or contact by phone or email For showroom appointments Please email Alan or Chris for showroom by appointment only OFFICE HOURS Monday-Thursday 8am-3pm & Friday: 8am-2pm
5491 6999 | email: alan@kitchenshop.com.au or chris@kitchenshop.com.au | kitchenshop.com.au My Weekly Preview
My Home | October 2026 19
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FINISHING
touches A selection of products and styles to complete your space.
MEDIA ROOMS
LOUNGE ABOUT Add a pop of colour to your living space with the stylish Ariel two-tone ottoman from Pillow Talk. With a scalloped base and circular top, this unique design will become a talking point in your home.
NORM EVANS FLOORS Personalised Service and Expert Advice
SPECIALISING IN BUILDERS AND DEVELOPERS • DIRECT IMPORTERS OF TILES • SUPPLY AND INSTALL OF VINYL PLANK, CARPET, TIMBER AND BAMBOO Call into our showroom 1-9 ENDEAVOUR DR, KUNDA PARK Open Monday to Friday from 8am PH: 5476 6022 22 My Home | October 2026
SHOP where the builders SHOP! My Weekly Preview
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1. Elegant doesn’t even begin to describe the Ellery inlay coffee table. It features intricate capiz shell inlay in soft grey and ivory tones, and brings subtle pattern and texture to your living space, Bed Bath N’ Table. 2. Add a little 1920s glamour with the Gatsby ivy green and off-white tapered marble table light from Adairs. 3. The Patio indoor-outdoor rug in neutral boasts a distinctive geometric pattern and multiple textured flatweave. It’s from Choices Flooring Maroochydore.
BEST VALUE ON THE COAST Beautiful homewares to finish your space
Couches & Living Furniture
Lift Chairs & Adjustable Beds
Dining Tables
Bedroom Suites
SHOP IN STORE OR ONLINE at scwholesalefurniture.com.au CALL NICK: 0414 748 223 EMAIL: scwholesalefurniture@gmail.com
8 OCEAN STREET, MAROOCHYDORE My Weekly Preview
My Home | October 2026 23
6 STYLING TIP
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Obviously, a media room needs technology. But the key is to balance tech with soft textures, ambient lighting and beautiful furniture so the room feels stylish and inviting even when the TV is off.
4. Sunshine Coast-based artist Domica Hill created this 40x40cm acrylic and oil pastel on canvas, named What the Trees Leave Behind. You can follow Domica on Instagram, @domicahill. 5. The Toronto vase is a love letter to retro design. We love its silhouette. It will look terrific on the coffee table, media unit or book shelf. It’s from Kas Australia. 6. The Sienna fabric modular lounge exudes sophistication with its rich colour and texture. It’s from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre.
IvoryT Fabric & Wallpaper • Curtains & Sheers • Indoor & Outdoor Seats • Cushions • Roman Blinds • Wallpapers • Fabrics / Upholstery Showroom Open: Thurs, Fri & Sat 9am-4pm Phone for Measure & Quotes 5 / 20 King Street, Caboolture Ph: 0422 599 084 | sales@ivoryt.com.au
wallpaperaustralia.com.au 24 My Home | October 2026
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ED
ALLY OWN C LO
Sunshine Coast
PAT I O S
|
C A R P O R T S
|
F LY O V E R
PAT I O S
MP A
DEAL DIRECT WITH THE BUILDER
Y
PATIOS
LY CO
N
Better
•
MI FA
OVER
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SCAN ME
POOLFAB FEATURE //
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BUILD AN IN-GROUND POOL IN 2026? Poolfab Pool + Landscape Creations managing director Sean Lynch talks pool costs and budgets. Visit poolfab.com.au.
A
backyard pool is a major investment, so knowing what to budget for before you start designing is important. In 2026, the cost of an in-ground concrete pool in Australia can vary considerably depending on the size, site and level of finish. WHAT SHOULD YOU BUDGET? As a general guide, a standard concrete in-ground pool in Australia will usually start somewhere around the $50,000 to $75,000 mark, while larger or more highly customised projects can reach $100,000 or more. For a typical family-sized concrete pool on the Sunshine Coast, a realistic starting budget in 2026 is around the mid-$50,000s, with larger pools moving into the $60,000 to $70,000-plus range before additional landscaping, paving or more specialised features are considered. These figures are only a starting point. The final cost will depend on the size and design of the pool, the
site conditions, access, excavation requirements, finishes and how much of the surrounding outdoor area is included in the project. WHAT AFFECTS THE COST? Size is an obvious factor, but shape and depth matter too. A simple geometric pool will generally require less construction work than a highly customised design, while additional depth means more excavation, materials and concrete. Site conditions can also have a significant impact. Tight or difficult access, sloping ground, rock, retaining requirements and additional engineering can all add to the build price. This is one reason a sitespecific quote is so important. Then there are the finishes. Waterline tiles, pool interiors, coping and paving can move a project from simple to high-end, while extras such as heating, lighting, water features, spas and automation will increase the overall investment.
Image: Poolfab Pool + Landscape Creations THINK BEYOND THE POOL It is easy to focus on the pool itself and forget the space around it. Fencing, landscaping, decking, paving, outdoor entertaining areas and electrical work should all be considered at the budgeting stage, particularly if you want the entire backyard completed as one project. It is also worth thinking beyond construction. Every pool has ongoing costs for electricity, water treatment, servicing and general maintenance and equipment such as heating or automated systems can affect those costs. GET AN ACCURATE PRICE Online averages are useful for setting an initial budget, but no two pool
projects are identical. The most reliable figure will come from a builder who can assess your site, understand the design and clearly explain what is and is not included in the quote. While 3D imagery brings the idea to life, its greatest value is the opportunity to refine a project before construction begins. Adjusting the pool’s location, dimensions or surrounding landscaping during the design stage is much simpler than correcting a problem after excavation. It also encourages homeowners to consider the complete outdoor environment, rather than treating the pool and landscaping as separate projects.
POOL + LANDSCAPE PACKAGES PROFESSIONAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION.
QUEENSLAND’S MOST AWARDED POOL & LANDSCAPE BUILDERS SINCE 1978 CONTACT POOL FAB TODAY. 5451 1000 POOLFAB.COM.AU
26 My Home | October 2026
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THE
STYLE & PRIVACY
outdoor
for outdoors
ROOM
• Awnings • Louvres • Shutters • Fencing & Gates • Insect & Security Screens
POOLSIDE PERFECTION Turn the space around the pool into somewhere you actually want to spend time. From relaxed furniture and oversized pots to shade, greenery and the right finishing touches, thoughtful styling can make the poolside feel like a true extension of the home.
All screens and gates are custom designed to suit your needs
The Nardi Net Lounge chair combines relaxed comfort with contemporary Italian design, with a low-slung seat, supportive high back and durable UV-stabilised polypropylene resin made to withstand outdoor conditions. Available from Daydream Leisure Furniture, Warana.
“Think beyond the pool itself. Repeat colours, materials or finishes from inside the home to the outdoors to make the transition feel cohesive rather than like two separate spaces.”
we love!
We use Australian Powdercoated Aluminium in over 300 colours
The Noosa Beach umbrella in navy from Daydream Leisure Furniture.
PULL DOWN/WIND DOWN BLINDS GATES, FENCING & AWNINGS DECORATIVE ALUMINIUM PANELS BI-FOLDING, SHUTTERS & LOUVRES
DIY FRIENDLY OR INSTALLED CALL FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE
P. 5438 2866 or Mark 0424 984 785 Made from polypropylene, this powerloomed Newport Alvi outdoor mat in blue will bring a Mediterranean vibe to your outdoor space. It’s from Choices Flooring, Maroochydore. My Weekly Preview
The outdoor Meyer pot from West Elm features an organic shape and weathered stone look that will work with most styles thanks to its natural look.
9 Newing Way, Caloundra (off Mark Rd at Daniel St roundabout) www.superiorscreenssc.com E. superiorscreenssc@gmail.com Agents for
My Home | October 2026 27
THE
outdoor
EDIT
THE FORGOTTEN FIFTH ROOM The porch or front patio of a home is often treated as little more than the space between the driveway and the front door. But with a little thought, it can become another room in its own right.
S
pring is a good time to look at the front of the home with fresh eyes. After months of cooler weather, an entrance can be showing its age – chipped or stained paintwork, dusty light fittings, overgrown plants and outdoor furniture that is no longer appealing. There has also been a broader change in the way we use these transitional spaces. A larger porch might accommodate proper seating and planting, but even a small covered entry can borrow some of the same ideas we use indoors. Natural materials, layered textures, sculptural pots and softer lighting can make the transition from outside to inside the home feel
much more deliberate. On the Sunshine Coast, practicality matters too. Anything placed at the front of the home needs to cope with strong sun, wind and summer rain, so look for outdoorrated furniture, fabrics and lighting and choose plants to suit the amount of sun the area actually receives. Before adding anything new, edit what is already there. Remove pots that are struggling, relocate anything that has simply accumulated near the door and look at the entrance from the street rather than from inside the house. From there, a few well-chosen additions can do far more than a large collection of decorations.
Creating lasting, functional environments • Marble, Granite and Reconstituted Stone • Kitchen and Vanity Tops • Domestic and Commercial Projects + MUCH MORE! ASK ABOUT OUR OFFCUTS, CUT TO SIZE N A T U R A L S T O N E SPECIALISTS 40 FISHERMANS R OAD, MAR OOCHYDORE / 5479 4033
in f o @lif e tim e s to n e .com.a u 9A M - 4PM MO N D AY T O FR I D AY, S AT U RDAY BY AP P OI NTMENT
28 My Home | October 2026
E st
ablished
OVER
20
years o n th
e Coa
st
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THE THREE-POT TRICK Rather than lining identical pots along the wall, group three in varying heights. Keep one element consistent – the colour, finish or material – and vary the shapes and planting. It will look collected rather than cluttered. Position the tallest pot towards the back and allow one plant to spill or trail to soften the arrangement.
TAKE A SEAT If space allows, add some seating. A simple chair or bench immediately makes a porch feel more like a room, rather than simply a thoroughfare. Add one outdoor cushion for colour and comfort rather than piling on accessories.
“Dichondra silver falls is a fast-growing trailing plant that looks terrific in pots, particularly as a soft, cascading ground cover around a larger feature plant”
ALL THE LEADING BRANDS INCLUDING: • MASTERFINISH • FLEXTOOL • MAKITA • NUTECH • TOPCON • HUSQVARNA • CONFORM • CCS • SOLUTION SEALERS Looking after concreters and D.I.Y. on the Coast for over 25 years. FOR EXPERT ADVICE COME AND TALK TO CONCRETOR TODD My Weekly Preview
continued over >
If we don’t have it we will get it!
OPEN 6 DAYS P 0411 305 266
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sccw.com.au My Home | October 2026 29
< from previous page FROM THE EXPERTS: Dulux says the front of your house is all about first impressions. Their advice? Look around your neighbourhood to see what colours appeal to you. A new coat of paint can easily transform your outdoor area. The home pictured here features Dulux’s Lexicon Quarter. Visit dulux.com.au
SPRING CHECKLIST A quick front-entry reset: Wash down the front door and surrounds. Clean windows, screens and light fittings. Check outdoor bulbs and sensor lights. Touch up chipped or faded paintwork. Clear leaves and debris from paths and drains. Trim plants encroaching on steps and walkways. Check that house numbers are easy to see. Replace a worn or faded doormat. Remove dead leaves and refresh potting mix.
AFTER DARK Go outside after sunset and look at the entrance from the street. Is the front door well lit? Can you clearly see the house number? Are plants blocking the path or light? An entrance needs to work at night as well as it does during the day, so include lighting in your front-door makeover rather than treating it as an afterthought.
HIA SUNSHINE COAST & WIDE BAY HOUSING
Clean outdoor furniture and cushion covers. Check pots for cracks and good drainage. Stand back at the street and see what catches your eye.
ng
Celebri
AWARDS 2026
LOCAL BUILDING & DESIGN
FRIDAY | 16 OCTOBER | 2026
Headline Partner
Sunshine Coast Convention Centre – Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, Twin Waters An evening celebrating excellence, innovation and outstanding craftsmanship across the region’s residential building industry.
WHO WILL MAKE THE FINAL CUT? 30 My Home | October 2026
Keep an eye on My Weekly Preview on 8 October to discover the 2026 HIA Sunshine Coast & Wide Bay Housing Awards finalists.
Category Partner
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My Home | October 2026
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My Home | October 2026 31
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