Shademe is your trusted source for premium Australian-made internal and external shutters on the Sunshine Coast, offering stylish, durable protection built for harsh coastal conditions. With a wide range of materials and finishes, we deliver tailored solutions to suit any home – inside and out.
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Who said print was dead? As we issue our latest edition, we have some exciting news to share – a new and improved product is on the horizon.
Launched in July, it will retain the standalone magazine format that you have come to know and love – with the same team behind it. The magazine will take on a new name and design, expanding just as the industry has. We are opening the door to an even broader world of home renovation, building and styling.
My Renovation launched in 2012 – that’s around 5000 pages of advice, looks, products, ideas and local advertising we have delivered. I was lucky enough to be entrusted with the role of editor eleven years ago. Since then, we have adapted and grown, continuing to offer one of the nation’s only independently owned and operated home and renovation magazines.
And it is an honour we continue to invest in. To all of our followers, thank you for being part of the journey so far. We look forward to welcoming you into this new chapter next month.
Our interior design team will help you choose the perfect look for your windows. Darren’s Blinds have hundreds of creative ideas for your windows.
Winter has a habit of changing the way we use our homes. Out come the throws and heavy doonas. The deck suddenly feels too open after the sun goes down and the harder floors feel cold. Rather than tackling major renovations, many homeowners focus on smaller updates that make everyday living feel warmer and more comfortable.
Outdoor entertaining doesn’t need to disappear once temperatures drop. More homeowners are turning decks, patios and courtyards into year-round spaces by adding shelter and softer finishes. Outdoor blinds, pergolas and outdoor heating help create protection from the elements, while weatherresistant rugs, layered cushions and textured throws bring the comfort of indoors outside.
Style watch: The return of richer textures
Winter interiors are moving beyond beige-on-beige minimalism.
Textured bouclé fabrics, timber with deeper grain, aged brass finishes and layered natural materials are helping homes feel warmer and more inviting. Even small additions such as velvet dining chairs, timber stools or oversized woven rugs can shift the mood of a room without requiring a full renovation.
There’s still nothing quite like a fire pit on a cool evening. It becomes a great place to gather as a family to create memories. You’ll need:
• Fire bricks or heat-resistant pavers
• Gravel or crushed rock
• Shovel
• Spirit level
• Optional metal fire ring
Step 1: Choose a level open space at least three metres from structures, fencing and trees.
Step 2: Mark out a circle around one to 1.2 metres wide using string or spray paint.
Step 3: Remove around 15cm of soil and fill the area with gravel or crushed rock for drainage.
Step 4: Stack fire bricks around the perimeter, checking levels as
you work. A metal ring can help improve longevity.
Step 5: Allow materials to settle before lighting your first fire.
Fire pit safety checklist
• Place fire pits on a solid non-combustible surface such as pavers or concrete.
• Keep at least three metres clear from buildings and flammable materials.
• Never leave fires unattended.
• Keep water, sand or an extinguisher nearby.
• Burn dry hardwood only.
• Consider gas models for compact spaces or balconies.
• Use a metal lid or sand to safely extinguish fires.
Held on the Gold Coast as part of the Housing Industry Association’s national conference, the awards recognised standout residential projects from across the country, celebrating innovation in building, design and construction.
Queensland builder Mactech Constructions was named winner of the 2026 HIA Australian Home of the Year for Cloudbreak – a five-level coastal home perched on one of the Gold Coast’s most exposed sites.
The home, designed as one half of a duplex, features a rooftop pool and spa, wellness retreat, cinema, helipad and a ribbon of glass floor panels drawing natural light through the residence. Judges praised the project for transforming a difficult cliff-edge site into a highly refined luxury home.
While the overall award celebrated new residential construction, one of the night’s standout renovation projects came from Melbourne builder Elder Constructions, which
claimed the HIA Australian Renovation/Addition Project award for a remarkable restoration and extension.
Originally built in 1886 as a nursing home, the heritagelisted property underwent a meticulous revival, with original bluestone, decorative brickwork, cast-iron friezes and balustrades carefully restored.
Alongside the restored structure, a contemporary extension introduced a striking modern contrast, featuring
“The home features a rooftop pool and spa, wellness retreat, cinema, helipad…”
vertical cladding designed to mimic finely grained timber and a pressed-copper roof detail. A glazed link separates the old and new sections of the home, while
gardens and water features help tie the spaces together.
The project also delivered a luxury lower-ground level beneath the extension, complete with a sauna, steam room, gym, games room, car lift, turntable and parking for five vehicles.
From 27,000 individually laid cobblestones to a full CBUS home automation system, judges said the project demonstrated exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship throughout.
HIA managing director Jocelyn Martin said the awards recognised builders and designers redefining what was possible in Australian housing.
“The winning projects redefine what’s possible in terms of innovation; they’re setting new benchmarks for the industry,” she said.
Other major winners included a sculptural French-inspired kitchen design and a luxury outdoor retreat with curved pool and premium landscaping.
continued over >
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Winner:
A heritage restoration and modern extension project in Moonee Ponds transformed a former 1886 nursing home into a luxury family residence. Original bluestone, brickwork and cast-iron detailing were carefully restored, while a contemporary addition introduced vertical cladding, pressed-copper roofing and a glazed connection between old and new. The lower-ground level includes a wellness retreat, gym, games room and automated car storage.
A luxury outdoor retreat has claimed the HIA Australian Outdoor Project award, with judges praising its seamless blend of high-end entertaining, technical precision and connection to the surrounding landscape. The project centres around a large curved swimming pool, complemented by a fully equipped pool house featuring a fireplace and outdoor kitchen, alongside an external bathroom and extensive landscaping and lighting throughout the property.
Built during challenging winter conditions, the project required complex excavation reinforcement using shotcrete, as well as a major underground power upgrade carefully completed without disrupting the site’s natural environment.
Judges said the thoughtful material selection and attention to detail helped the finished space sit comfortably within the rustic local setting, while still delivering a refined luxury outdoor experience.
Winner: Mactech Constructions
Designed as both a hardworking family space and a standout architectural feature, this award-winning kitchen combines durability with refined design. A dramatic cantilevered stone island forms the centrepiece, complemented by warm timber veneer finishes and cleverly concealed storage throughout. Judges praised the exceptional craftsmanship and the way the space flows seamlessly into the home’s outdoor entertaining areas, creating a strong connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Winner: Studio Minosa
A calming master ensuite designed as a private retreat has taken out this year’s HIA Australian Bathroom Design award, with judges praising its thoughtful detailing and highly resolved finishes. Microcement was used throughout the space to create a tactile, low-maintenance surface with strong visual impact, paired with large-format porcelain tiles to reduce grout lines and create a seamless feel through the wet areas. Curved forms soften the overall design, while a warm, muted palette adds to the sense of calm and sophistication. Practicality was also a major focus, with generous storage integrated throughout.
COMPLIMENTARY FREE HOME MEASURE & DESIGN CONSULT
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“Layer lighter tones with natural timber, crisp whites and warm brass fi nishes for a look that feels fresh rather than formal”
Soft blues are finding their way back into homes, bringing a sense of calm without feeling cold or overly coastal. From rich indigo artwork to vintage-inspired ceramics and deep velvet textures, blue works beautifully as both a feature and a neutral.
1. Wrapped in plush velvet with curved lines and slim black legs, the Caleb dining chair brings a richer blue tone into dining spaces while adding comfort and texture. Available from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre. 2. The Buttercup vase by KAS Australia takes cues from playful mid-century design, with a scalloped rim and soft curves creating a sculptural piece that works equally well with flowers or standing alone. Visit KAS Australia for stockists. 3. A vintage-style floral print gives this ceramic planter set an old-world feel. The low profile works well for herbs, trailing plants or succulents indoors or out. Available from Coastal Drift Home, Kawana Shoppingworld. 4. Indigo Blues by JenJayArt from Hearts and Minds Art, Noosa, introduces rich colour and movement, making it an easy statement piece for a bedroom, hallway or living space. 5. HaymesPaint’s Faded Blue offers a softer take on cooler tones. Try it in a bedroom, study or bathroom and pair it with warm timber, brushed brass and off-whites to keep the look relaxed and inviting. 6. The Kensington lamp pairs a classic blue porcelain base with a white shade, offering an easy way to introduce colour without overwhelming a room. Available from Coast Store, Cotton Tree.
Appliance integration continues to shape modern laundry layouts, with stacked washer and dryer combinations helping free up valuable floor space in smaller homes. Concealed cabinetry for brooms, ironing boards and cleaning products is also becoming more common, creating cleaner sightlines and a more streamlined overall finish. Drying cupboards and pull-out hanging rails are another feature appearing in higher-end renovations, particularly in homes without large outdoor drying areas. In family homes, designers are increasingly incorporating bench seating, hooks and charging stations into laundry zones, turning them into multifunctional transition spaces between indoors and outdoors.
When it comes to renovating the home, laundries have taken a step forward, with a focus on creating a space that is not only useful but looks great, too.
As laundries become more design-focused, durability is still important. Porcelain tiles remain a popular flooring choice thanks to their water resistance and ease of maintenance, while matte finishes are replacing high-gloss surfaces in many contemporary homes. Textured cabinetry profiles, handleless joinery and slim shaker doors are also appearing more frequently, adding subtle detail without making smaller spaces feel busy. Black tapware remains popular, although brushed nickel, warm metallic finishes and gunmetal are also favourites.
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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Epoxy is a specific type of resin system that cures when mixed with a hardener. It can be used in the laundry due to its durability and low-maintenance requirements. It is available in everything from decorative flake designs to metallic coatings. Pictured is an epoxy floor by CIA Concrete, Kunda Park.
With many laundries opening directly onto alfresco areas or pool zones, there is a growing demand for fixtures and finishes that can handle moisture, humidity and heavier daily wear. Practicality is increasingly being paired with outdoor-style durability, particularly in coastal homes where materials need to cope with changing conditions. Many renovators are also looking at ways to better connect indoor and outdoor utility spaces. Small attached courtyards with concealed clotheslines, large sliding or bifold doors and matching floor tiles flowing from inside to out can help make a laundry feel larger and more integrated with the home. Potted greenery, timber screening and outdoor shelving are also being used to soften what has traditionally been a highly functional zone, helping laundries feel more connected to surrounding garden areas.
The Oasis Alfresco 316 SS Kitchen Mixer in gunmetal will bring an architectural look to your laundry. It’s available from Highgrove Bathrooms.
Why you need an interior designer for your renovation?
• Smart material selections for your space
• Detailed plans for accurate quotes • End-to-end project management
One of the biggest influences on cabinetry pricing comes down to board selection and material quality. Standard melamine boards are often the most affordable option and premium plywood products sit at the higher end of the scale. In coastal areas especially, higher-grade materials can provide better durability and resistance to humidity over time. Door finishes also play a major role in overall cost. Flat-panel laminate doors generally remain one of the more budget-friendly choices, while two-pack painted cabinetry, timber veneers and solid timber detailing require additional labour and specialist finishing processes. While these premium finishes increase upfront cost, they also deliver a more refined and highly customised look.
From material choices to hardware and hidden storage solutions, custom cabinetry pricing can vary dramatically from one project to the next. According to the expert team at Foreshore Kitchens, understanding where your money is going is one of the most important parts of planning a renovation.
While many homeowners initially compare cabinetry quotes by price alone, the reality is custom joinery is rarely a like-forlike comparison. Materials, finishes, installation conditions and design complexity can all significantly affect the final figure.
Unlike flat-pack or off-the-shelf cabinetry, custom joinery is designed specifically for a layout. That means two kitchens of a similar size can end up with different price tags depending on the level of detail involved.
The more customised a design becomes, the more time and craftsmanship it requires. Curved cabinetry, integrated appliances, shadow-line detailing and bespoke feature panels all increase production complexity and installation precision. Older homes can also present hidden challenges during installation, particularly where walls or floors are uneven or site access is limited. Renovation projects often require additional coordination between trades, which can further affect timelines and budgets.
Hardware is another area many renovators underestimate during the budgeting stage. Drawers, hinges and lift systems vary enormously in quality, with higher-end hardware often providing smoother operation, soft-close functionality and greater long-term durability. Investing in better hardware can also reduce maintenance and replacement costs later on, particularly in busy family kitchens and high-use spaces. Internal storage accessories can quickly shift a project budget, too. Features such as pull-out pantries, integrated bins, drawer organisers and corner storage systems all improve functionality, but they also add to manufacturing and installation costs. The key, according to Foreshore Kitchens, is selecting storage solutions that genuinely suit the way a household lives rather than adding features that may rarely be used.
According to Foreshore Kitchens, the lowest quote is not always the best long-term investment. Cheaper cabinetry may rely on lower-grade materials, basic hardware or rushed installation methods, potentially leading to problems down the track. Instead, homeowners are encouraged to compare quotes carefully, paying close attention to material specifications, hardware inclusions, warranties and the level of customisation being offered. Strategic choices can also help keep projects on budget without compromising overall quality. Mixing premium finishes with standard materials, simplifying door profiles and prioritising high-use areas are all common ways to balance cost and performance.
The pool might be finished, but it’s often the landscaping that truly brings an outdoor space to life. The right plants can soften hard edges, create privacy, add colour and texture and turn a basic backyard pool into somewhere that feels more like a retreat.
While many homeowners
leave landscaping until the end of a build, planning it early can make a significant difference to how the space functions and feels.
Considering planting alongside the pool design allows better decisions around shade, drainage, screening, paving transitions and garden lighting – not to mention avoiding plants with invasive
roots, excessive leaf drop or messy flowers near the waterline. When selecting poolside plants, practicality matters just as much as appearance. Lowmaintenance varieties that can tolerate heat, reflected light, pool chemicals and dry conditions are often the best fit for Australian backyards. Plants with soft foliage, minimal litter and noninvasive root systems also help reduce ongoing pool cleaning and maintenance.
The size and orientation of the pool area should also guide plant choices. Tropical-style gardens often suit lush, resortinspired spaces, while coastal or contemporary homes may benefit from cleaner architectural planting with grasses, sculptural succulents and hardy evergreen varieties.
Timing also plays a role. Autumn and early spring are often considered ideal times to tackle pool landscaping, giving plants the opportunity to establish before extreme summer heat arrives. Planning ahead before peak
swimming season also allows time for screening plants to grow in and soften surrounding fencing or retaining walls.
Layering plants also helps create a more established look. Taller screening plants or palms can add privacy, while lower grasses, flowering plants and architectural foliage soften paving edges and bring movement to the space.
Importantly, pool landscaping does not need to feel overly
tropical to work well.
Contemporary Australian gardens are increasingly mixing hardy natives with subtropical planting, creating outdoor areas that feel relaxed, modern and suited to local conditions.
And while trends may come and go, the fundamentals remain the same -choose plants suited to the climate, think carefully about scale and maintenance, and allow enough room for gardens to mature over time.
Top 10 pool plants recommended by Re:Scape Design founder Ricky Burgess
1. Kangaroo paw – A hardy Australian native with striking flowers that attract birds and add colour around the pool.
2. Frangipani – A classic poolside favourite thanks to its sculptural shape, tropical feel and fragrant blooms.
3. Bird of paradise – Known for its bold foliage and vibrant flowers, ideal for creating a lush resort-style atmosphere.
4. Agave – An architectural succulent suited to contemporary spaces and low-maintenance gardens.
5. Cordyline – Adds height, colour and softness with strappy foliage in shades of green, burgundy and red.
6. Dwarf umbrella tree – A compact evergreen ideal for screening and creating greenery in smaller pool areas.
7. Lomandra – Tough, droughthardy and low maintenance, making it ideal for borders and softening hard landscaping.
8. Blue agapanthus – Produces vibrant blue flower heads and works well planted in clusters along pool edges.
9. Dwarf date palm – A compact palm that delivers tropical appeal without overwhelming smaller spaces.
10. Layered mixed planting –Rather than relying on one plant type, Ricky recommends combining textures, heights and foliage styles for a more natural and established feel. rescapedesign.com.au
Adding a swimming pool to your home can make a difference, both in terms of its market value and entertainment for the family.
Despite the benefits of having a pool, people can tend to be discouraged from having one installed, due to the sometimeslofty upfront costs involved, along with the ongoing maintenance they require.
It’s important to realise, however, that the costs involved are far from unreasonable, considering the sheer number of benefits you and your family can enjoy.
It should also be noted that when properly looked after, swimming pools made from hard-wearing materials, such as concrete, can last for many decades.
Swimming pool maintenance can be done in two ways. The first is hiring professionals to clean and perform maintenance activities on the pool, while the
other is DIY pool maintenance. The first allows you to avoid the challenges of swimming pool maintenance, but naturally incurs greater costs, as professional services are not free.
The do-it-yourself maintenance on the other hand, is the aspect that many view as challenging, but the truth is, it is only challenging if the maintenance is being done incorrectly.
Thanks to the abundance of comprehensive guides available on blog posts and YouTube, DIY pool maintenance has become much easier for the average pool owner to get a grasp of.
Before you learn about pool cleaning and maintenance, it’s important to fi rst understand the tools and equipment you need. Read on to fi nd out more.
The following is a list of tools and equipment you will require to
keep your pool in tip-top condition all year round.
1. Telescopic pole: A versatile tool used with other tools when cleaning. It features an adjustable length that makes your cleaning easy and convenient. Some of the tools it uses include the skimmer net, brush and vacuum cleaners.
2. Skimmer net: This functions similarly to a fi shing net, which is used to remove solid deposits from the water when cleaning.
3. Brush: This removes stains and algae from swimming pool walls. You’ll need a speci fi c brush for each pool type – the stiff brush is used for cleaning concrete pools; the soft brush is best for fi breglass or vinyl pools.
4. Vacuum cleaners: This tool extracts and removes dirt from fi lter systems. As you know, swimming pools have fi lter systems that help keep the water clean and healthy; these systems also get dirty after extended periods of use. Vacuum cleaners are used to clean the fi lter systems when
dirty. It is important to note that vacuum cleaners are speci fi c to the different fi lter systems and also useful in removing debris from the pool.
5. Pool cleaners and disinfectants: These are used to keep the water clean and healthy after use; where fi lter systems clean the water entering the pool, pool cleaners clean and disinfect the water in the pool.
Pool maintenance tips
1. Vacuuming the pool: The consistency with which this is done reduces the number of chemicals you put in the pool to keep it clean and the amount of debris and deposits in the water. For example, daily vacuuming reduces the chances of stains occurring and chemical use. However, how vacuuming is done matters. The ideal way is by walking off a straight line grid, like you would when mowing.
2. Scrubbing the pool’s walls: Algae and calcium build-up
make your pool unhealthy and dirty. You must often scrub the pool’s walls to prevent build-up. It does not need to be done daily to keep the pool clean, although if you can afford the time, daily scrubbing is okay.
3. Skimming the pool’s surface: This is where the skimmer net or skimmer shovel is useful, as it is used to remove debris and dirt that appear on the water’s surface. This activity can be done on a daily or at daily intervals. The idea is for your pool to look and remain clean and ready for use every time.
4. Filter maintenance: This junction is where many miss it and experience challenges. This is because they apply the wrong maintenance procedure to a fi lter system. The process incurs extra costs for them because of a damaged fi lter system. Filter system maintenance is tricky since cleaning the fi lter systems too often can hinder the fi ltration process and not cleaning it after using it for extended periods.
Each fi lter system type has a pressure gauge that noti fi es you when cleaning is needed. For media fi lter systems like sand fi lters, you notice the water flow is slow or delayed, and the pressure gauges on the inlet and outlet will indicate that there is blockage. Cleaning is needed. The ideal way to clean media fi lters is by backwashing. However, media fi lters, like sand fi lters use the coarseness of the fi ltration media (sand) to keep the water clean. When the media loses its coarseness, it should be changed, and a professional can help you do this. Cartridge fi lters’ maintenance is easier because they have a higher surface area than media fi lters and are low-maintenance fi lters. The water flowing through the fi lters is used to know when to clean, as a clean cartridge fi lter allows high pressured flowing water. Cleaning the cartridge in the fi lter is easy, as you rinse or soak in a cartridge cleaning solution before rinsing.
Australians already stretched financially may not have thought to look at their own four walls but that’s exactly where the answer could lie. As inflation refuses to ease, and with the end of $450 in government energy rebates that households have relied on since 2024, Bradford Insulation is pointing to a solution that most homeowners already have access to: proper home insulation.
Bradford Insulation, part of the CSR Group, is one of Australia’s leading manufacturers of insulation solutions for both residential and commercial spaces.
“When people think about beating inflation, they think
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about switching energy retailers or even cutting back on groceries,” says Renee McGinty, general manager marketing, CSR. “Insulation is working for you every single day, in every season, without a subscription or an ongoing cost.
“Most homeowners already have access to it; they just haven’t thought about it that way.”
The timing could not be more critical. The federal government’s universal energy bill rebates, which had been softening the blow of rising electricity prices for millions of households, have now ended.
At the same time, electricity costs rose 37 per cent in the 12 months to February 2026, according to ABS data, making energy the single largest driver of goods inflation in the country.
Housing-related costs, including utilities, are now running at 7.2 per cent annually, more than double the overall rate of inflation.
For households already
under financial pressure, this convergence of factors – sticky core inflation, the end of rebates and elevated electricity tariffs –creates an urgent case for improving home energy efficiency. And unlike solar panels or battery storage, insulation requires no ongoing maintenance, no technology risk and no minimum usage threshold to deliver value, according to the Bradford team.
“Heating and cooling typically account for around 40 per cent of a household’s electricity use,” Renee says.
“When insulation is doing its job properly, your system isn’t working as hard or as long. That directly reduces what you’re paying, and in the current environment, that saving compounds quickly.”
CSIRO analysis has found that moving from a poorly insulated home to a wellinsulated one can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 45 per cent. For a household paying
the average Australian energy bill, that represents a meaningful annual saving, one that grows in value as electricity prices continue to rise.
“In dollar terms, the savings available through proper insulation have never been larger,” Renee notes.
“Because the saving is calculated as a proportion of your energy bill, every time prices go up, insulation saves you more. It’s one of the few home improvements that actually gets better value the higher energy prices climb.”
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Bradford Insulation recommends homeowners start with a simple assessment of their current home before investing. Ceiling insulation is the single most impactful upgrade in most Australian homes – heat escapes rapidly through uninsulated roofs.
Wall insulation is particularly important in cooler states, where uninsulated external walls can account for up to 25 per cent of heat loss.
Under-floor insulation is often overlooked, but critical in older elevated homes common across Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.
And for homes that already have insulation installed, it is worth checking its condition –insulation that is more than 15 to 20 years old may have compressed, shifted or deteriorated, significantly reducing its performance even if it is still present.
“A lot of people assume
Kitchen Shop Qld now on the coast for 26 years providing full Kitchen and Bathroom renovations
they’re already covered because there’s some insulation in the ceiling,” Renee says.
“But insulation that has settled or degraded is doing a fraction of the job it should.
“Checking the condition and R-value of what’s installed is a free exercise that could lead to an easy win.
“Insulation that has settled or degraded is doing a fraction of the job it should”
“There is no single Australian climate, and there is no single insulation solution,” Renee says.
“But the logic is the same everywhere, the better your home retains or resists heat, the less work your heating and cooling system needs to do and the lower your bills will be.”
With energy costs now among the top contributors to household cost-of-living pressure, and no quick resolution to inflation in sight, the need for a home insulation review has never been stronger.
“Insulation doesn’t make headlines the way interest rates
or grocery prices do,” Renee says. “But for a one-time investment, the returns are exceptional and they last for decades.
“In the current economic climate, that’s exactly the kind of financial decision Australians should be making.”
Designers: Alan Schull & Chris Schull for Kitchen Shop Qld
Technology is moving beyond the inside of the home, with smart gardening systems becoming one of the fastest-growing additions to modern renovations and outdoor spaces.
From app-controlled irrigation and robotic lawn mowers to sensor-monitored veggie patches and automated lighting, homeowners are increasingly using technology to create lower-maintenance gardens.
ROBOT LAWN MOWERS
Robot lawn mowers are no longer limited to ultra-modern homes or technology enthusiasts. The latest models are becoming common in suburban backyards thanks to quieter operation, improved navigation systems and easier setup. Much like a robotic vacuum, these battery-powered mowers automatically maintain lawns with little day-to-day involvement from homeowners.
The Husqvarna Automower 405X is designed to automatically maintain lawns up to 600 square metres, using GPS-assisted mapping technology to navigate more complex yard layouts and slopes. App connectivity allows homeowners to adjust mowing zones and schedules remotely, while weather-responsive settings help adapt operation to changing conditions.
One of the biggest changes in outdoor tech has been the rise of intelligent irrigation systems that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, soil moisture and temperature. Rather than relying on manual timers, many systems now connect directly to smartphones, allowing homeowners to monitor and control watering remotely.
The Holman WX8 Wi-Fi Irrigation Controller allows homeowners to manage up to eight watering zones remotely through the Holman Home app, helping automate garden watering schedules while staying compliant with local water restrictions.
Indoor smart gardens are also becoming increasingly popular, particularly in kitchens, apartments and smaller homes where outdoor growing space is limited. Rather than relying on traditional pots and manual watering, many newer systems use automated irrigation, built-in grow lights and sensor technology to help maintain herbs, leafy greens and indoor plants with minimal effort. Compact hydroponic gardens are especially popular in renovated kitchens, allowing homeowners to grow herbs such as basil, parsley and mint year-round directly on benchtops or butler’s pantry shelves. Vertical indoor gardens are also appearing more frequently in courtyards, living rooms and even bathrooms, helping soften interiors while improving the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Modern grow lights have also become far more designfriendly, with warm-toned LED systems now blending naturally into cabinetry, shelving and custom joinery rather than looking overtly technical.
Smar t outdoor lighting is great for around pools, pathways and entertaining areas. App-controlled systems allow homeowners to automate lighting schedules, adjust
The Philips Hue Lily outdoor spotlight extensionallowshomeownerstoexpand to automate schedules, brightness and even change colours depending on the occasion
extension allows homeowners to expand existing smart garden lighting setups, with app-controlled colour and white lighting designed to highlight pathways, landscaping and outdoor entertaining areas. The low-voltage system integrates with the Hue Bridge for remote control and custom lighting scenes.
Rich burgundy and brown tones bring a cosy seasonal update to the Elijah check quilt cover set. Made from a linen cotton blend that softens over time, the reversible design also features a more subtle stripe on the reverse for a softer look. Available from Adairs
This winter, homewares are leaning towards richer tones including chocolate brown, deep olive, warm rust, burgundy and layered neutrals.
The Neera rust scallop block print cushion adds warmth and texture with its block-printed scallop design, neutral reverse and earthy rust tones. It’s an easy way to bring richer winter colour into a living space or bedroom. Available from Coast Store, Cotton Tree.
Muted olive, chocolate and softly distressed detailing give this vintage-style olive rug a relaxed, lived-in feel perfect for winter styling. Crafted from a blend of jute and polyester, the oversized piece layers natural texture with everyday practicality while adding warmth underfoot. Available from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre
Deep burgundy and warm terracotta tones add a subtle pop of winter colour to the bathroom in the Lotus cotton towel range. Available from Pillow Talk.
The Leiden boucle throw brings softness and texture to cooler evenings, with the olive colourway pairing perfectly with this season’s earthy interiors palette. It’s from Adairs
With its pedestal base and glazed finish, the Terra fruit bowl brings warmth and understated colour to benchtops and dining tables alike. The shallow open design makes it perfect for displaying seasonal fruit while doubling as a decorative centrepiece. Available from Pillow Talk
Brighten the busiest space in your home with a splash of bold colour.
The Ipanema medium vase adds a playful burst of colour with its glossy melon glaze and curved silhouette. Handcrafted with an organic shape, it works equally well styled with fresh blooms or displayed as a standalone statement piece. From Kas Australia.
Add personality to an adjoining dining space with Meadow wallpaper from the Sojourn Collection. Featuring oversized florals, soft sage and blush tones, and delicate circular seed motifs, the design introduces colour and movement while still feeling refined and relaxed. Available from Ivory T Wallpaper Australia
Bring a relaxed coastal feel to the table with the Coastal weave placemats, handcrafted from natural fibres and available in a range of finishes including aqua, bamboo weave and floral prints. Layered textures and organic tones make them an easy addition for colourful kitchens and casual entertaining spaces. Available from Coastal Drift Home, Kawana Shoppingworld.
