My Home September 2026

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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

SEASONAL BOOST

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FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to the September issue of My Home. This month, we look ahead to warmer days and practical ways we can make the most of our homes and outdoor spaces.

Our cover story explores how to bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor living. From wider openings and level thresholds to shade, furniture placement and thoughtful design, we look at ways to create a more seamless connection between the two.

We also share advice from Sunshine Coast Council on building smarter for future floods and storms, with practical information for homeowners planning, building or renovating.

And, in our outdoor pages, it is time to give the garden a seasonal boost. We cover the jobs worth tackling now, from feeding and replanting to mulching and choosing what to grow, to help get gardens ready for the warmer months ahead.

Of course, we have all of our regular sections, including finishing touches, style and news.

Until next month, happy renovating.

26 06

27 COVER STORY

06

STYLED YOUR WAY

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HOME DESIGN

16

FEATURE

18

FUTURE LIVING

20

FINISHING TOUCHES

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Make the connection

Spring pattern

Bedroom furnishings

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BRING INDOOR

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ISSUE 169, SEPTEMBER 2026 SUNSHINE COAST >> 100% LOCALLY OWNED

ON THE COVER Turn to page six.

Creating the kitchen

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MAKE THE CONNECTION Spring is a good time to think about the connection between inside and out. From wider doorways and easy access to better shade and smarter furniture placement, a few well-planned changes can make outdoor areas more comfortable to use every day.

On the Sunshine Coast, outdoor areas often work as an extension of the living space for much of the year.

But simply having a deck, patio or alfresco area does not mean it will function well with the rest of the home.

If a renovation is on the horizon, it is worth considering the home and outdoor area as one connected space. The goal is not necessarily to make everything open plan, but to make it easier to move, entertain and live between the two.

One of the biggest changes you can make is replacing a standard doorway or narrow sliding door with a wider opening.

Stacking or sliding doors can open up a larger section of wall without requiring the clearance needed for hinged doors. Bifolds are another option where homeowners want the opening to be almost completely clear when the doors are folded back.

Before choosing a system, think about where the panels will sit when open, how much wall space is available and whether furniture will interfere with the opening.

If you are increasing the width of an existing doorway, the wall may be structural. Have a builder or suitably qualified professional assess it before assuming it can simply be removed.

6 My Home | September 2026

GET THE FLOOR LEVELS RIGHT A large opening will not feel seamless if there is a substantial step between the living room and patio or deck. Where possible during a renovation, investigate whether the internal and external floor levels can be brought closer together. This can improve access and make furniture and foot traffic flow more naturally between the spaces.

It does, however, need to be properly designed.

External areas still require appropriate drainage and

weather protection, so do not sacrifice those requirements purely to achieve a flush appearance.

Flooring can also help visually connect the areas. You do not need to use the same material inside and out. Instead, look for a similar tone, format or direction.

For example, warm timber flooring inside might be paired with a timber-look outdoor product or stone in a complementary colour.

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PLAN FOR SUN AND RAIN Larger doors and expanses of glass can also increase exposure to sun, heat and weather. Pay attention to where the sun hits the house in the morning and afternoon.

West-facing glazing can increase heat and glare, while an uncovered patio may be difficult to use in wet weather. An existing roof may be able to be extended, while pergolas, awnings and outdoor blinds can provide extra protection without fully enclosing the area. Any increase in glazing should be planned alongside shade, as more glass can also affect the comfort of the adjoining room.

tip!

CHECK YOUR DOORS Before making structural changes, open the existing doors and look closely at how the space works. Does the dining table block the route outside? Does the sofa turn its back on the patio? Is the barbecue positioned directly in the main walkway?

Sometimes furniture placement is the problem rather than the architecture. Try moving the indoor dining table closer to the outdoor connection, turning occasional chairs towards the garden or relocating bulky storage away from the doorway. Outside, leave a clear path from the house rather than filling the entry point with a dining setting.

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My Home | September 2026 7

< from previous page

WORTH CONSIDERING Before opening up an indoor-outdoor area, be sure to check: • where the sun and weather reach • whether the wall is structural • how doors and screens will operate • internal and external floor levels • drainage around the threshold • furniture placement and main walkways

EXTEND THE PRACTICAL FEATURES OUTSIDE An outdoor space is more useful when you do not have to keep walking back inside for everything. If the area is being renovated, why not add power points for lamps, appliances or a television, along with enough lighting to use the space comfortably after dark.

A small outdoor bench, drinks fridge or built-in storage can also make entertaining easier without committing to a full outdoor kitchen. Think about where these features will be located before the electrical and plumbing work is completed.

Running services later can mean cutting into finished walls, ceilings or paving.

TAKE A VIEW The connection works both ways. Stand in the kitchen, living room and main hallway and look towards the outdoor area. Bin storage, pool equipment or a bare fence may suddenly become much more noticeable once a wall of glass is introduced in the form of a sliding glass door or larger windows. Use planting, screening or a feature wall to improve the outlook from inside. If there is an established tree, pool or attractive part of the garden, consider whether the new opening can be positioned to take advantage of the view.

• lighting and outdoor power • what will be visible from inside the house.

The best result is one that makes the indoor and outdoor areas easier to use together, while still providing shade, shelter and privacy when they are needed.

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The charming KAS Verona cushion pairs bold florals with soft, fresh green stripes for a beautifully balanced look, kasaustralia.com.au.

SPRING PATTERN Want to inject a splash of spring colour into your home?

We’ve rounded up three popular design directions, each with its own personality, palette and finishing touches.

Made from durable poly rattan, this plant stand brings an outdoor material into your home in a stylish design. It’s available from Adairs.

The Laura Ashley Everingham Meadow cushion brings a fresh garden feel indoors with vibrant florals, layered botanical tones and a softly textured cotton-linen blend. Visit Domayne.

The Spring wall art canvas from Domayne features muted hues that add serenity and depth to your interior.

With a bright colourway and playful scalloped edge, we love the Lucy striped, footed planter from Pillow Talk.

This stunning artwork, entitled Alfresco, is by artist Bronwyn Barton and comes framed in timber. It’s from Stevens Street Gallery.

Florals and pink hues don’t have to be loud, as demonstrated by Pillow Talk’s Floral Bloom bath mat.

Banni wallpaper is a faux grasscloth with no pattern repeat. A soft line remains visible at the joins, helping create the look of the natural material. Pictured here in green, it’s from Ivory T Wallpaper Australia.

Copeland wallpaper has a softness with a clean background that will enliven your space and make it appear bigger. The big, bold pattern ticks the maximalist box. It’s from Ivory T Wallpaper Australia.

MINIMALIST Keep pattern subtle with fine stripes, simple florals and tonal designs that add interest without overwhelming the space.

BIOPHILIC Bring the outdoors in with botanical prints, leafy motifs and organic patterns inspired by nature.

MAXIMALIST Embrace bold florals, oversized and layered patterns for a look that feels confident, expressive and full of personality.

12 My Home | September 2026

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THE

colour EDIT

A fresh look at the hues making themselves at home.

DEEP BURGUNDY

Moody, sophisticated and versatile, deep burgundy is finding its way back into contemporary interiors. Its rich red and brown undertones pair beautifully with warm neutrals, dark timber and aged metallics, bringing depth to both modern and traditional spaces.

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HOW TO USE IT

A deep burgundy cushion brings instant warmth to a neutral sofa or i armchair.

Layer it with oatmeal and a muted pink tones for a softer, more m relaxed take on the colour. We love rre the th Celine scalloped velvet feature cushion from Pillow Talk.

1. Choose one statement – A burgundy chair, feature wall or large rug can bring richness to a room without overwhelming it.

2. Soften with neutrals – Cream, oatmeal, tan and warm white prevent deeper red tones from feeling too heavy.

3. Add warmth through timber – Walnut, oak and other warm timber finishes bring out burgundy’s earthy undertones.

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paint it!

Haymes Paint – Smoulder

Dulux – Fortified Wine A deep wine-inspired shade that adds richness and drama to an interior. Use it on a feature wall, cabinetry or a front door, and balance it with warm whites, timber and aged brass.

A deep, intense red inspired by ripe berries, Smoulder brings a sense of warmth and intimacy to a room. It is particularly effective in dining areas, bedrooms and smaller spaces designed to feel cosy.

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British Paints – Red Ribbon

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A soft, muted deep red with burgundy undertones, Red Ribbon creates a warm and contemporary feel. Use it in an office or dining room, or as a feature colour alongside soft white, tan and dark timber.

The Banjo occasional chair in russet hues from Early Settler Furniture adds warmth and depth through its plush chenille upholstery. Contrasting elm legs and subtle seam detailing give the chair a contemporary finish, while its deep colour makes it an easy statement piece for a living room, bedroom or reading nook.

My Home | September 2026 15

HOME

design

ROOM TO GROW While children’s bedrooms have traditionally celebrated bold themes and playful colours, parents are increasingly taking a more considered approach to their design.

C

hildren’s bedrooms need to support sleep, play, reading and learning, while remaining flexible enough to change as children grow.

“Children’s bedrooms are one of the hardest-working spaces in the home,” says Diana Altiparmakova, Luxaflex Window Fashions head of product and marketing. “They need to feel safe and comforting at night, light and inspiring during the day, and flexible enough to accommodate from toddlerhood through to the teenage years.”

Keeping the foundation practical

allows personality to be introduced through bedding, artwork and accessories that can be updated as interests change.

MANAGE NATURAL LIGHT Because the room serves several purposes throughout the day, control of natural light and privacy is important.

“Window furnishings can completely change the way a child’s bedroom feels and functions throughout the day.

“The right solution can help soften harsh sunlight, create a sense of privacy and support a calmer environment when it’s needed.” Layering blinds, shades or shutters with curtains can provide greater control over light while adding softness and texture.

CHOOSE FOR THE ROOM Natural light: Silhouette shades or curtains can diffuse daylight while maintaining privacy, helping keep the room bright without harsh glare.

Versatility: Luxaflex Soft Roman Shades combine the softer appearance of curtains with the functionality of a blind.

Day to night: Window furnishings with softly contoured vanes can filter daylight during play or study, then provide greater privacy as the room transitions into evening use.

Pictured are the Luxaflex Soft Romans. Image: Kathryn Tollerud Photography

tip!

Safety should remain a priority in children’s bedrooms. Professionally installed window furnishings and child-safe operating systems help ensure the space is suitable for everyday family living.

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SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL PROMOTION //

BUILDING SMARTER FOR FUTURE FLOODS AND STORMS Why flood-resilient design matters on the Sunshine Coast.

F

afterwards. Every design decision you make before a flood or storm event can reduce the damage, disruption and recovery costs that follow,” Ms Guterres said.

“The Sunshine Coast is particularly exposed because flooding can occur from multiple sources, including rivers, creeks, overland flow, stormwater and coastal storm tides.

“Many of us often assume flood risk only applies to waterfront properties, but numerous affected properties aren’t located next to waterways.

“Drainage issues and overland flow can impact homes right across our region. Understanding your property’s particular risks is always the first step in choosing the right flood resilience strategy for your property.”

Flood-resilient design. Image: Scott Burrows for JDA Co

INVESTING IN RESILIENCE NOW SAVES MONEY LATER One of the key messages behind the guide is that resilience should be viewed as a long-term investment.

Flood-resilient design can reduce damage, shorten recovery times and lower the ongoing costs associated with repairs and insurance.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Environment and Liveability councillor

Flood-resilient design. Image: JDA Co

or many Sunshine Coast locals, water is a big part of what makes our region such a beautiful place to live. We have an enviable 65 kilometres of coastline, five major waterways and dozens of creeks. But living near water can also bring risk.

As rainfall events become more intense and coastal hazards increase, homeowners, designers and builders are being challenged to think differently about the way homes are planned, built and renovated.

To help meet that challenge, Sunshine Coast Council has released the Flooding and Coastal Resilience Design Guide, developed in partnership with resilience specialists JDA Co. The guide provides practical design advice, helping homeowners and industry professionals create homes that are safer, more adaptable and better prepared for flood and storm events.

According to Sunshine Coast Council’s principal engineer and Flooding and Coastal Resilience Design Guide co-author, Nadia Guterres, flood resilience should not just be considered after a disaster.

“Flood resilience is about planning rather than reacting

18 My Home | September 2026

Maria Suarez said work done by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority has shown that resilient retrofits could significantly reduce reliance on insurance, while allowing homeowners to return to their homes much faster after flood events.

“Some homeowners reported returning within days or weeks rather than facing stressful rebuilds lasting many months,” Cr Suarez said.

“Every dollar spent improving resilience can help avoid many more dollars spent in future repairs.

“Design approaches like raising floor levels, using flood-resilient materials and protecting services like electrical systems can deliver longterm financial benefits as well as peace of mind.”

TURNING COMPLEX PLANNING INTO PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS For many homeowners, flood mapping, planning overlays and development requirements can feel overwhelming.

Cr Suarez said residents should

begin by downloading a council site report for the proposed planning scheme, which identifies flood risk, stormwater risk and coastal hazard mapping relevant to their property.

“This guide gives designers and homeowners a clear pathway forward,” Cr Suarez said. “Translating mapping and technical planning information into practical design options, makes it easier to understand what solutions are likely to work for your particular site.”

THE VALUE OF BETTER FLOOD MAPPING Council’s updated flood mapping has marked a step forward in helping residents make informed decisions to improve their flood resilience.

Cr Suarez said the new mapping was already available online through council’s MyMaps and is referenced in the proposed planning scheme site reports. The mapping considers different types of flooding and varying levels of risk.

“The benefit of the new flood risk My Weekly Preview

risks before you start designing,” she said. “Take the time to learn about flood risks, stormwater risks, the drainage behaviour of your property and future coastal hazards.

“When resilience is considered early, you can create a home that performs better, costs less to maintain and provides a safer place for your family for decades to come.”

Flood-resilient design. Image: Mindi Cook for JDA Co and stormwater risk mapping is that it allows for simplified design solutions and reduced assessment requirements in areas of low or moderate risk,” she said.

“Previous flood overlays treated all flooding the same, which could unnecessarily complicate development for some properties.

“Our improved flood information gives homeowners, designers and builders greater confidence when planning future investments.

“It helps identify risks early in the design process, which is usually when the best solutions are available.

“Smarter design from the start helps prevent damage or complicated redesigns in the future.

“Although the proposed planning scheme has not yet been formally adopted by council, we encourage people to use the new information as it is best that these risks are properly considered now if people are planning on building or renovating their properties.”

GOOD DESIGN OFFERS SOLUTIONS Because each parcel of land is unique, flooding is different for each site.

Some sites can have multiple sources of flooding, which need to be managed differently.

Ms Guterres said it’s important to understand your site constraints before design work begins.

“One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing a design before fully understanding their site,” she said. “Overland flow paths, flood storage areas, site drainage, wave My Weekly Preview

“Good design responds to the site rather than forcing the site to fit the design” action zones and drainage from neighbouring properties can all influence the most appropriate design response.

“A solution that works perfectly on one block may create problems on another. Good design responds to the site rather than forcing the site to fit the design.

“Options can range from building on fill in low flood risk locations, through to building on posts in low stormwater risk locations where blocking overland flow paths could cause problems.

“Flood-resilient renovations and the creation of upper-level refuge areas should also be considered for your current home.”

AVOIDING COSTLY RENOVATION MISTAKES When renovating, Ms Guterres said many homeowners focused on finishes and upfront costs without considering how it would perform in a flood or storm event, and what the costs and stress of repeated repairs could be. ”Flood-resilient and watersensitive design tips and checklists provided in the guide should be

referred to whenever a renovation is being considered,” she said.

“The design advice, like choosing tiles rather than carpets, may be easier to implement than people may realise.

“Retrofitting resilience measures later is more expensive than incorporating them from the start.

“Using flood-resilient materials, elevated electrical systems, waterresistant cabinetry and layouts that allow buildings to dry quickly following inundation, should be key considerations.

“There’s proven value in implementing practical features such as single-skin walls, durable flooring, large openings that allow water to escape, and strategically placing services above flood levels.”

DESIGNING HOMES FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, flood resilience is likely to become a standard part of residential design across the Sunshine Coast.

“We need homes to become more adaptable and responsive to risks and site conditions,” Ms Guterres said.

“Over the next 10 to 20 years, I hope we’ll see more elevated homes, more water-sensitive landscaping, greater use of resilient building materials and smarter planning that accounts for future climate risks, not just current conditions.”

For homeowners considering a new build or renovation today, Cr Suarez has one key message: “My advice is simple – make sure you understand your site and your

7 FLOOD-RESILIENT DESIGN TIPS Build back better with these practical ideas from Sunshine Coast Council’s Flooding and Coastal Resilience Design Guide.

• Check council’s flood mapping and obtain a site report for the proposed planning scheme before you start designing.

• Raise habitable floors above the minimum design flood level wherever possible.

• Position air-conditioning units, hot water systems and electrical infrastructure above flood levels.

• Use flood-resilient materials such as polished concrete, tiles and fibre cement sheeting.

• Choose permeable fencing that allows floodwater and stormwater to pass through.

• Incorporate rainwater tanks, swales and water-sensitive landscaping to manage runoff.

• Avoid blocking natural drainage paths on your property or neighbouring sites.

Small design decisions made today can significantly reduce damage, speed up recovery and improve the long-term resilience of your home.

Image above: Flood risk mapping

Download your free copy of the Flooding and Coastal Resilience Design Guide at council’s website by searching ‘Flood resilience’. Visit sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

My Home | September 2026 19

FUTURE

living

“The built form is considered appropriate within the city centre environment”

Explore the projects shaping the future of our region.

PLANS FOR SUNSHINE COAST’S TALLEST BUILDING

P

lans have been revealed for a landmark 99-metre residential tower in the heart of the Sunshine Coast.

Walker Corporation, which is leading the development of the emerging Maroochydore City Centre in a Priority Development Area, has lodged an application with Economic Development Queensland for a high-rise at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade.

A planning report, compiled by Adams and Sparkes, stated that it would be about 30 storeys to a height of 98.77, “making it the tallest building on the Sunshine Coast”, on a 2376sqm corner site.

It would include 208 apartments, consisting of one to four bedrooms, plus three levels of car parking, and communal and recreation areas,

including a dining room, pool and gym. It would also include ground level businesses and a public plaza at its western corner.

“The proposed development satisfies the PDA vision by contributing a landmark, mixed-use tower within the Maroochydore City Centre, delivering a high-density residential development with active ground level retail uses,” the report stated.

“The scale and intensity of the development capitalise on the city centre’s intended role as the Sunshine Coast’s primary urban and economic hub.

“By delivering a high-quality built form, activating the public realm and increasing the residential population within the city centre, the proposal advances the intent to establish a vibrant city heart for Maroochydore

The planned 30-storey tower for Maroochydore. Image: Plus Studio and support ongoing economic growth and investment across the region.

“The built form is considered appropriate within the city centre environment. The proposal is not expected to result in unacceptable adverse impacts on adjoining properties or the surrounding environment.

“The development will deliver a landmark building that assists with wayfinding throughout the city centre and reinforces the important regional role of the Maroochydore City Centre.”

According to the report, the development proposal was submitted to Sunshine Coast Council, which is

the development partner for the city centre, for consideration through the design review process.

“Council has confirmed support for the proposed development and communicated this support to EDQ during the pre-lodgement meeting.”

The report also stated that “EDQ has provided general support for the proposed development”.

A Sunshine Coast Council representative told Sunshine Coast News that “while the application is under assessment, it is not appropriate for council to comment further”.

– Words: Steele Taylor For more property news, visit sunshinecoastnews.com.au.

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FINISHING

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STYLING TIP The smallest details can make a kitchen feel complete. Repeat finishes across handles, tapware, lighting and accessories to create a cohesive look, but avoid matching everything too perfectly. A little contrast creates personality.

1

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1. Spice up your walls with the Spicy Marg print with its bold colours and playful design, Adairs. 2. The Provincial single lever kitchen mixer brings timeless European aesthetics while offering the simplicity of a single control lever for both water flow and temperature. It’s from Domayne. 3. Made from jacquard cotton, the Daisy tea towel sets feature a timeless colour palette to suit any home, Pillow Talk.

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SHOP IN STORE OR ONLINE at scwholesalefurniture.com.au CALL NICK: 0414 748 223 EMAIL: scwholesalefurniture@gmail.com

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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 24 My Home | September 2026

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4. Handcrafted by artisans, the Swirl vase is a ceramic piece featuring a sleek, contemporary design. Visit kasaustralia.com.au for local stockists. 5. The pretty Cosmos spray from Domayne will brighten the bench. Arrange loosely in an architectural-shaped vase. 6. This dispenser design from Askin Cabinets is functional, practical and stylish. Visit askincabinets.com.au. 7. Add colour and interest to your kitchen with the Mediterranean Alfresco Green 3 painting from Coast Store, Cotton Tree. It’s available in multiple styles and shapes. 8. We love the mosaic tile splashback featured in this kitchen created by Kitchen Shop. Visit kitchenshop.com.au. 9. Decorate your kitchen bench with select accent pieces. We like the resin Arto bowl from Adairs.

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POOLFAB FEATURE //

PLAN WITH YOUR HOUSE IN MIND Bringing a pool into the design process early can improve access, avoid unnecessary costs and help create a more cohesive finish, says Poolfab Pool + Landscape Creations managing director Sean Lynch. Visit poolfab.com.au.

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pool is often treated as a project to tackle after the house is finished. But if a new home is already being designed, bringing the pool into the plans early can make the process more efficient and ensure the finished result works seamlessly with the overall property.

One of the biggest advantages is access. Excavating a pool while the house site is still open can be simpler than trying to bring machinery into the backyard once the home, fencing and landscaping are complete.

It can also help avoid damage to newly finished areas and reduce additional excavation costs associated with restricted access.

FIND THE RIGHT POSITION Planning the pool alongside the house allows its location to be considered as part of the overall site design.

The pool zone can be kept clear of underground pipes and services,

while its position, dimensions and surrounding landscape can be planned in relation to the home.

Where there are limited site reference points during early construction, additional surveying may be required to ensure the pool position and heights are accurate.

The distance between the house and pool also needs careful attention, as some designs may require additional piers or foundations.

COORDINATE THE SERVICES Addressing these details early gives both the house builder and pool builder an opportunity to coordinate practical requirements before construction progresses.

Underground services can be kept away from the proposed pool area, while power can be provided at the filtration station during the electrical stage of the house build.

The filtration equipment should also be factored into the site plan.

Ideally, it will sit within 10 metres of

Image: Poolfab Pool + Landscape Creations the pool but outside the pool zone, with consideration given to nearby windows, fencing and other equipment heights.

A suitable backwash outlet or stormwater point can then be installed at the same time.

THINK ABOUT SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION A pool that is built before the house is complete may need to be temporarily fenced or covered for an extended period. It will depend on the proximity to the construction site and guided by the builder.

This creates an additional upfront cost, but it may be offset by the savings in excavation time and access achieved by building the two projects together.

MATCH THE FINISHES Choosing outdoor tiles and pavers early can help the pool and house feel connected rather than designed as separate spaces.

Pool dimensions and surrounds can be planned around tile sizes, while materials, colours and landscape elements can be selected to complement those used on the home.

Coordinating the filtration, fencing, lighting, paving and landscaping at the same stage also allows the complete outdoor area to be mapped out before construction begins.

The result is a pool and landscape space designed as part of the home from the outset — and ready to enjoy when you move in.

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STYLE & PRIVACY for outdoors • Awnings • Louvres • Shutters • Fencing & Gates • Insect & Security Screens

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GET AHEAD OF THE GAME

NORM EVANS FLOORS Personalised Service and Expert Advice

Spring is the time to tidy, feed and replant before the hotter months arrive. A few jobs now can set the garden up for stronger growth and make outdoor areas easier to manage through summer.

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fter winter, the first job in the garden should not necessarily be planting.

Start by taking stock of what is already there.

Remove dead growth, pull weeds and clear fallen leaves from garden beds. Check pots for plants that have become root-bound and look over lawns, hedges and established plants for areas that need attention.

It is also worth standing back and looking at the garden as a whole. Are plants overcrowding paths? Is one bed looking bare? Has a shrub outgrown its position? Spring is a good opportunity to make those adjustments before new growth takes off.

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FEED AND MULCH As plants return to active growth, refresh your garden beds with suitable fertiliser and mulch.

Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and protect soil as temperatures rise. Keep it clear of trunks and stems rather than piling it directly against plants.

Lawns can also benefit from some attention now. Remove weeds, repair thin patches and feed according to the needs of the grass variety.

The aim is to prepare the garden before summer, when heat and water demand can make larger jobs less appealing.

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ADD COLOUR WITH FLOWERS For spring colour, consider warm-weather favourites such as marigolds, petunias, verbena and zinnias.

Before planting, check the amount of sun in that position and group plants with similar watering requirements. Repeating one or two varieties through a bed can also create more impact than planting a large number of individual colours and species. A fresh layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds and protect roots as temperatures rise.

Mulch can also be added to pots; keep the layer fairly thin and clear of plant stems.

PLANT FOR THE MONTHS AHEAD Spring and early summer are ideal for planting a wide range of vegetables, flowers, trees and shrubs. For the edible garden, options include beetroot, capsicum, cucumber, dwarf beans, eggplant, lettuce, pumpkin, radish, spring onions, sweet corn, sweet potato, tomatoes, watermelon and zucchini.

Rather than planting everything at once, focus on foods the household will actually use and consider how much space each crop will need as it grows. Pumpkins and watermelons, for example, need considerably more room than lettuce or spring onions.

Herbs and vegetables can also be worked into ornamental garden beds instead of being restricted to a separate vegetable patch, making better use of available space.

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THINK BEYOND ONE SEASON Spring planting is also an opportunity to add longerterm structure.

Suggested trees, shrubs and climbers include avocado, bougainvillea, citrus, frangipani, ginger, hibiscus, mulberry, paw paw, passionfruit, plumbago and pomegranate, along with native plants that can provide local habitat.

Consider mature height and width before planting. A small shrub in a nursery pot may eventually block a path, window or view if it is placed too close to the house.

Check overhead and underground services before planting larger trees and leave adequate space around fences and structures.

SPRING CHECKLIST Weed first Remove weeds before adding fertiliser and mulch.

Check irrigation Run sprinklers and drip systems and look for blocked outlets or leaks before hotter weather arrives.

Prune with purpose Remove dead or damaged material, but check the plant variety before carrying out heavy pruning.

REFRESH THE POTS Container plants can quickly become cramped. Check whether roots are circling the inside of the pot or growing through drainage holes.

Where necessary, move the plant into a larger container with fresh potting mix. If the pot size is staying the same, some plants can be root-pruned and replanted, but check the requirements of the particular species first.

While repotting, check drainage holes and replace cracked or damaged pots.

Plan before planting Consider mature plant size, sunlight and watering needs rather than choosing only for appearance.

Ask locally A nursery expert can help identify plants suited to your garden’s soil, position and conditions.

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