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STYLE & PRIVACY
This month, we take a close look at granny flats – not the dated backyard add-ons of years past, but flexible, welldesigned spaces that are helping families live smarter. Whether it’s a space for older children, creating a work-from-home base or planning ahead for ageing parents, these secondary dwellings are a valid investment.
As the season turns, we also turn our attention to autumn bedroom comfort, with simple ways to layer bedding and adjust textures as the nights begin to cool. Plus, an experienced landscape designer shares practical advice for making the most of a small front yard, and for those dreaming bigger, we explore what’s involved in building a lap pool at home.
Add in our usual home décor ideas and finishing touches and there is something for everyone.
Happy renovating!
BACKYARD GOLD
Here’s why granny flats are a smart renovation.
The humble granny flat has quietly had a glow-up.
Once built for ageing parents, today’s secondary dwellings have many purposes. They’re proper home offices with separation, teenage retreats that restore family harmony and long-term rentals that bring additional income. And yes, sometimes still a home for Mum or Dad.
On the Sunshine Coast, where housing pressure, rental
demand and multigenerational living are all part of the conversation, a well-designed granny flat is no longer an afterthought.
Recent changes to Queensland planning regulations now allow secondary dwellings to be rented to non-related tenants for long-term residential use. That shift alone has transformed granny flats from family overflow space into serious backyard assets.
Designed to evolve
The smartest granny flats are built with flexibility in mind because, over time, its purpose can change. Today’s workspace might become a rental tomorrow or a guest suite in five years’ time. The key is keeping the bones neutral and adaptable. Choose timeless finishes, such as soft whites, warm timbers and simple cabinetry. Let furnishings and styling add personality. That way, when the occupant changes, you’re not
The specifi cs
Under the Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme, a secondary dwelling must remain subordinate to the main home. It can sit underneath, be attached to, or be freestanding, but it must function as part of the same overall household
repainting or refitting.
Externally, the building should feel connected to the main residence. Similar rooflines, complementary cladding or consistent landscaping make the addition feel intentional rather than tacked on.
Tip: Think about where it sits on the block. A granny flat that feels tucked into the landscape will age better visually and financially.
arrangement.
In most urban residential areas:
• The maximum size is 60 square metres of gross floor area.
• The lot must generally be at least 600 square metres.
• If freestanding, it must be
located within 20 metres of the main dwelling.
• It is typically set up to share common services and vehicle access arrangements (water connection, wastewater, street number and driveway access).
• One additional on-site car parking space is required. There are some local variations. In rural and rural residential zones, the maximum size can extend to 90 square metres. In parts of Moffat Beach, Shelly Beach and Dicky Beach, the cap is 45 square metres, with a maximum height of four metres.
Kitchen Shop Qld now on the coast for 26 years providing full Kitchen and Bathroom renovations
While many secondary dwellings are classified as “accepted development”, meaning a separate development approval for planning may not be required if all code requirements are met, a building approval is always required, along with plumbing approval. A private building certifier can confirm compliance before construction begins. Tip: Check overlays early. Bushfire, height, excavation or heritage constraints can influence design and cost. And always check up-to-date regulations.
Small footprint, big value
Because of their compact scale, layout matters when it comes to granny flats.
Open-plan living, good cross-ventilation and sliding doors to a small deck can make 60 square metres feel generous.
Built-in storage keeps things functional, while well-thought-out window placement gives privacy between dwellings.
Done well, a granny flat isn’t just an extra room out the back. It’s a smart response to changing family life and housing realities.
Creating Award Winning Winning Kitchens & Bathrooms
Designers: Alan Schull & Chris Schull for Kitchen Shop Qld
For on site consultation & measure To
What does it cost?
Costs vary depending on site conditions, finishes and complexity. Across Australia, many standard builds sit roughly in the $80,000 to $200,000 range. Higher-spec custom designs can exceed $200,000, particularly where significant site works or premium finishes are involved.
Excavation, drainage, service connections and landscaping can all affect the final figure. Allow a 10-15 per cent contingency to avoid stress once building begins.
The upside? With tight vacancy rates across southeast Queensland and strong rental demand for self-contained dwellings, a well-designed granny flat can provide a supplementary income or long-term value uplift.
Design ideas
Designing a granny flat interior is less about shrinking ideas and more about refining them.
Here are practical ways to make a compact footprint work well:
Choose multi-purpose furniture
A wall bed with integrated shelving, a fold-down dining
table or a sofa with hidden storage can transform a single room from workspace to bedroom in minutes.
Use full-height joinery
Take cabinetry to the ceiling. Vertical storage keeps the floor clear and makes the entire space feel larger.
Keep flooring consistent throughout
Running the same flooring through living, kitchen and bedroom zones avoids visual breaks and gives the appearance of more space.
Maximise natural light
Sliding doors, clerestory windows or well-placed skylights make a small space feel open and airy.
Define zones subtly
Use rugs, pendant lighting or open shelving to separate living and sleeping areas without adding walls.
Think long-term durability
If the space may become a rental, choose hard-wearing finishes. Quality laminate, engineered stone and easy-care tapware will likely go the distance.
Add a small outdoor extension
A deck or covered patio can effectively add another ‘room’ for a fraction of the cost of internal floor area.
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Black bathrooms are elegant but having a darker space means you will need to lighten the room in other ways. If you opt for all black, brighten the bathroom with large frosted windows, light neutral-coloured linens and potted plants. Texture is also important in achieving a balanced design – use both gloss and matte tiles, or break up the look by using metallic or marble embossed tiles or wallpaper.
Short on ideas for your bathroom renovation? Here are fi ve points to get you started.
When planning the budget, allow extra for the bits you can’t see – the pipework and other fixtures –especially if you live in an older home. Try to avoid moving pipework by keeping updated showers, baths or sinks in a similar place. It will not only cut down the time of the renovation work, but could save you hundreds of dollars in tradie labour fees.
Accounting for nearly half of your renovation budget, the fixtures and fittings you choose can make or break the look and feel of your bathroom. If it’s in your budget, the fixtures to splurge on are your cabinetry, toilet and bathtub (if you’re looking to include one). Ample storage space is a must for every bathroom, so choosing the right vanity and shelving for all your bathroom essentials is vital. Opting for a wall hung vanity will free up floor space and mirrors also give the illusion of a bigger bathroom.
tip!
When purchasing your floor and wall tiles, make sure you have more than enough. This way you will have replacement down the track if any are damaged.
Concealed toilets feature a recessed cistern, which is hidden behind the wall or roof space. The effect is modern and it is a great space saver. The downside? It costs more.
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Stockists
PATIO PERFECTION
Need ideas for your newly renovated outdoor space? Here are some styling ideas.
1. The Jinju outdoor rug features a non-slip backing and is constructed from premium recycled synthetic fibres. Beautiful and easy to maintain, it’s from Coastal Drift Home, Caloundra and Kawana Shoppingworld. 2. Outdoor weather resistant shutters are a must for the Sunshine Coast lifestyle. We like these ones from Shademe. They are available in a bi-fold, stacked or hinged form. 3. Crafted from solid rubberwood, the Chunk drybar from Sitting Around, Warana, stands at just over one metre tall. It’s available in three stain shades – natural, light oak or walnut. 4. The Eva rattan lantern features a tightly woven frame that houses a single glass candle holder. It’s available in two sizes and will look lovely as a table centrepiece. Visit Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre. 5. The Luana outdoor cushion in natural is crafted from canvas, making it weather- and fade-resistant. Visit kasaustralia.com.au for local stockists.
Elevate your home with beautifully crafted flooring. Thoughtfully selected materials, refined finishes, and expert installation – designed for homes where quality, longevity, and style matter.
designed for calmcrafted for living
Create bathroom spaces that feel calm, considered, and indulgent. Timeless fixtures, elegant finishes, and carefully curated products that transform everyday routines into quiet luxury.
From sustainable materials to clever use of space, the next wave of modern kitchen design blends style, functionality and sustainability. Here, the expert team from Dream Doors Kitchens, Sunshine Coast, share the trends to explore ahead of your renovation project. Visit dreamdoorskitchens.com.au.
EARTHY, GROUNDED COLOUR PALETTES
Gone are the days of sterile white kitchens. The coming year celebrates warmth and character through natural tones. Think rich terracottas, creamy taupes, forest greens and soft clay finishes. These colours add depth and personality, transforming kitchens into calm, grounded spaces. They also pair beautifully with textured materials like timber and stone.
SEAMLESS SMART DESIGN
Technology and design are merging more smoothly than ever. From touch-free taps and hidden charging ports to smart lighting and integrated appliances, kitchens are now designed for both style and convenience. But the secret to a successful smart kitchen isn’t just the gadgets; it’s how they blend seamlessly into your design.
Established on the Coast OVER 20 years
MATCHING BENCHTOPS AND SPLASHBACKS
One of the biggest Australian kitchen design ideas is continuity. Using the same mineral stone or porcelain surface for both benchtop and splashback creates a sleek, unified look that’s easy on the eyes. Whether you prefer classic marble, warm-toned silica-free mineral stone, or durable laminate, this cohesive design trick improves your kitchen’s aesthetic.
SUSTAINABILITY IN THE KITCHEN
Eco-conscious living is more than a trend; it’s a mindset that continues to shape modern kitchen design.
Homeowners are embracing recycled materials, energyefficient appliances and timeless designs that reduce the need for future renovations. A kitchen facelift that reuses existing cabinetry and layouts, that cuts down on waste, is a win-win.
CURVES AND SOFT EDGES
Curves continue their comeback in modern kitchen design. Arched doorways, rounded benchtop corners and softly curved islands create a welcoming, organic feel. These gentle shapes bring movement to the space and help balance sharper lines and angles.
FROM COOL SHEETS TO COSY RETREATS
As summer fades and cooler nights start to creep in, many of us are left stuck between sweaty sheets and winter-weight quilts that feel far too soon. But according to bedding experts,
transitioning your bedroom for autumn doesn’t require a full makeover, just a few clever tweaks that instantly make the space feel cosier. Home and bedding retailer Pillow Talk says the secret lies in layering, texture
tip!
Autumn is the season to lean into richer, earthier tones in small doses. Rust, mustard, olive green and deep caramel shades are ideal for cushions, throws or pillowcases, adding warmth without darkening the entire room.
and timing, allowing bedrooms to adapt to fluctuating autumn temperatures without losing their light, fresh feel.
Rather than jumping straight to a heavy winter quilt, Nikki Hoskins, studio lead at PillowTalk. com, recommends keeping your summer quilt and layering over the top. “Start with your lighter quilt or sheets, then add a medium-weight throw or extra blanket that can be folded back during warmer afternoons,” she explains. “That way, you’re prepared for chilly nights without overheating.”
It’s a hotel-style trick that allows the bed to look styled and intentional, rather than bulky and overdone. Swapping smooth
cotton for brushed cotton sheets, adding knitted or woollen throws, or introducing boucle or corduroy cushions can instantly make a bedroom feel warmer, even before the temperature drops.
“Tactile fabrics add depth and comfort,” Nikki says. “They make the room feel layered and cosy, rather than flat.”
“Changing pillowcases, rotating cushions, or adding just one new throw can refresh the entire space,” she adds. “It’s about balancing style with practicality, so your bedroom works just as well in April as it did in January.”
Easy autumn bedroom updates:
• Layer smartly: Keep summer quilts and add removable throws or blankets.
• Rotate textures: Mix cotton, brushed fabrics, knits and wool.
• Update colours: Introduce rust, mustard or olive accents.
• Warm the lighting: Swap bulbs or add ambient lamps.
• Refresh details: New cushions or pillowcases for instant change.
Specialising in an exclusive collection of high-quality
Nothing says luxury like a newly renovated kitchen
Our experienced cabinet makers specialise in designing, constructing, and renovating both kitchens and bathrooms. From adding additional storage space to installing splashbacks and benchtops, we only work with industry-leading suppliers like Caesarstone, Polytec, Quantum Quartz and more.
When you choose FORESHORE KITCHENS, you can expect professionalism, attention to detail and customer service that will put a smile on your face.
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Transforming houses into dream homes
Thinking about a home makeover, but dreading the stress? We’ve got you covered!
At Coastal Trends, we specialise in beautiful, hassle-free renovations – managing your entire project from start to finish. Whether it’s a stylish kitchen upgrade, a modern bathroom, a laundry refresh, or new floors and walls – we handle it all, so you don’t have to!
Let us bring your vision to life – minus the headaches! Relax, we’ve got this.
APARTMENT DOS AND DON’TS
According to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission, rising house prices are driving more buyers into apartments and increasing renovation activity in multi-unit buildings.
But before you start work, it is important to understand your rights, responsibilities and protections. To help you avoid costly surprises, the expert QBCC team shares its quick guide on what to check before you renovate. For more information, visit qbcc.qld.gov.au.
YOUR CONSIDERATIONS
When it comes to renovating an apartment, there are a number of ways to prepare and educate yourself before demolition begins.
• Check your strata by-laws to see if your renovation is allowed and whether you need written approval from the body corporate, especially for work that affects shared areas (common property) or building systems (for example, pipes, electrical wiring, load-bearing walls, etc).
• Visit the QBCC’s home owner hub on their website, which provides a useful five-step guide to building and renovating, including help with finding an appropriately licensed professional for the work that needs to be done.
• Understand if your work is covered by the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme (QHWS), which provides protection for residential construction work, but it does not cover all work. Building work to or for a duplex or multiple dwelling of more than three storeys (excluding a car park level) is not covered by the QHWS. This includes any work done in an individual unit in this type of building.
YOUR PRACTICAL CHECKLIST FOR APARTMENT RENOVATIONS
• Body Corporate approval: Written approval: minutes or resolution if required.
• Contractor licence: Licence number, which can be verified via the QBCC’s Licensee Register. Licensees who have opted for a digital licence can show you their credentials on their mobile phone via the Queensland digital licence app.
• Waterproofing: Waterproofing certificate to state
waterproofing meets all relevant standards.
• Inspections: Independent sign offs and/or certificates at waterproofing and milestone completion stages to ensure accordance with relevant standards.
• Contract terms: A written and compliant contract – without this you may not be entitled to enforce your rights. This should include details of the scope of work, milestones and progress payments, dispute clause, cooling off periods. The QBCC
provides a free contract checklist on the QBCC website.
If you suspect defective work:
• Stop work that could worsen the issue and document the problem with photos and notes.
• Inform the contractor as soon as possible – explaining the suspected issue and, if confirmed, agreeing a way forward to resolve it, including timeframes (make sure you email the contractor to confirm in writing what was discussed, what was agreed and the timeframe for repairs).
• If the work is not fixed by your contractor as agreed, contact the QBCC to understand your options for support and assistance. Options are available for eligible home owners under the under the QHWS. If you are not eligible for the QHWS – because your apartment or unit is in a building over three storeys –the QBCC may still be able to assist by directing the builder to fix the defects under a Direction to Rectify (DTR).
We are your Renovation Dream Team!
Pool feature
LAP OF LUXURY
It might be challenging to pick the ideal type of pool for your lifestyle and home. This is because it is possible to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. One such type of pool is a lap pool, and they can be a great option for you if you’re searching for a pool that you can modify to fit into a variety of different backyard shapes and sizes. If you are someone who enjoys swimming laps, then a lap pool could be a great choice for you. It will allow you to swim continuously without having to turn around frequently, as you would in a smaller pool. Additionally, the long, narrow shape of a lap pool makes it easier to maintain a straight swimming path, which is important for developing good swimming technique.
WHAT IS A LAP POOL?
A lap pool is typically a long, narrow swimming pool that is
designed for swimming laps. It is usually at least 25 metres long and about three metres wide, with a depth of at least 1.2 metres. Lap pools are ideal for serious swimmers who want to improve their technique and endurance, as well as for fitness enthusiasts who want to get a good workout.
Lap pools are typically used for exercise and fitness purposes, rather than for recreational activities like playing games or lounging. They are popular with serious swimmers and triathletes who want to train and improve their swimming technique and endurance.
Lap pools tend to be more expensive to install and maintain than smaller recreational pools. However, they can also be a great option for anyone who enjoys swimming laps for fitness or relaxation.
Who is best-suited to a lap pool?
Anybody can benefit from a lap pool, and since they can be
tailored to match the precise needs and preferences of the owner, they are a perfect option for all types of lifestyles. Lap pools are fantastic because they are really good for your health, and an investment in your health is always worthwhile.
Additionally, the aesthetic value of lap pools can do wonders for your home’s property value. If you ever decide to rent or sell your home, the aesthetic value of lap pools can also significantly increase, making it stand out above the competition.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A LAP POOL
Below are the factors to consider before having a lap pool at your home:
1. Space: Lap pools are typically long and narrow, so you’ll need enough space in your yard to accommodate one. You’ll want to measure your available space and consider the pool’s dimensions to ensure that it will fit comfortably. In addition, you’ll also need to consider the location of the pool to your
house and other outdoor features, such as trees or patios.
2. Budget: Lap pools can be expensive. They range in price from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the size, materials, and features. So you’ll want to consider your budget and the cost of installing and maintaining a lap pool. In addition to the cost of the pool itself, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of pool landscaping, fencing, and other necessary additions.
3. Climate: Lap pools can be used year-round in some climates, but in others, you may need to install a heating system to keep the water at a comfortable temperature during colder months. You’ll want to consider your local climate and whether you’ll need to make any additional investments to keep your lap pool usable throughout the year.
4. Maintenance: Like any concrete swimming pool, lap pools require regular maintenance
and upkeep to ensure they stay clean and functional. You will need to consider the cost and time required for regular cleaning, chemical treatments, winterising and repairs. Hiring a professional pool maintenance company could be the best option if you have a busy schedule.
5. Local regulations: Before you begin construction on a lap pool, you’ll need to check local
regulations to ensure that you’re complying with any zoning or building codes in your area. You may need to obtain permits or undergo inspections as part of the process. Checking with your local zoning board is necessary before installing a lap pool. You will also need to comply with any regulations or restrictions that may apply to the installation and use of a pool on your property.
FRESH USES FOR AI
Australians are using artificial intelligence tools to impress their boss and cut hours from their working week but the technology is also creeping into the kitchen and renovation plans.
Preparing special meals for friends and family has emerged as the surprising top use for ChatGPT in Australia.
OpenAI revealed the growing trend in a recent report, which showed generative AI had also crept into considerations about home renovations and the household budget.
The findings come three years after the launch of OpenAI’s chatbot and as the federal government prepares to establish the Australian AI Safety Institute to evaluate emerging trends and technologies.
The US tech firm engaged PureProfile to survey more than 1000 Australian adults about how they use ChatGPT and found almost two in three
(62 per cent) asked the generative AI tool for help to plan special occasion meals for friends and family.
“What really stands out is how heavily Australians rely on ChatGPT for practical, everyday, how-to advice – it’s the single biggest category of use here,” OpenAI Australia communications head Chloe Browne said.
“Australians are a naturally curious, hands-on bunch and we’re seeing ChatGPT used to solve real, day-to-day problems.”
Almost half of local ChatGPT users asked the tool for DIY tips (48 per cent) and home renovation advice (46 per cent), the study found.
The company expected use of the technology to continue evolving in the coming year, Ms Browne said, and turn into a personal assistant that could manage transactions.
The Australian Digital Inclusion Index found almost half the country used generative AI technology (45.6 per cent), with its use highest among those aged between 18 and 34 years.
- AAP
DID YOU KNOW?
Australians are increasingly turning to generative AI as a digital helper for home projects and everyday tasks. When it comes to renovations, here’s what they’re asking ChatGPT for:
Popular renovation searches
• Design ideas and inspiration — “What are current kitchen colour trends?”, “Small-bathroom layout tips”.
• Step-by-step project guides — “How to replace a tap mixer”, “DIY tiling basics”.
• Tool and material advice “Best paint finish for
high-traffic areas”, “What size sander do I need?”.
• Cost estimates and budgeting — “How to plan a bathroom reno on a budget”.
• Time planning and scheduling — “How long does it take to install laminate flooring?”, “Renovation timeline checklist”.
• Troubleshooting problems — “Why is my plaster cracking?”, “What causes grout to discolour?”.
• Safety tips and regulation info — “Do I need a permit to remove a wall?”, “Electrical safety tips for DIY”.
LOOKING AHEAD: SMART PIECES FOR THE HOME
This year’s tech headlines are redefining how homes look and work. We’re talking about gadgets that simplify tasks, while looking great.
One of the standout trends from CES 2026 is the rise of smart kitchen appliances that help with real cooking. AI-powered fridges now track food, suggest recipes and can even sync with your phone so the shopping list updates itself. Smart indoor stovetops and multifunctional air fryers are turning meal preparation into a more efficient part of life.
In living spaces, ultra-slim OLED and RGB MiniLED screens now double as digital art displays, blending into decor by showing curated artworks or family photos. Outdoors, and pool cleaners are even taking a smarter turn.
For two of the latest home tech gadgets, turn to page 24.
continued over >
GOING POOL SMART
Following its recognition as a CES 2026 Innovation Award Honoree, the iGarden M1 Pro Max has now launched globally, establishing a new technical standard as the world’s first bionic dual-vision pool cleaner. This flagship device moves beyond the blind randomisation of legacy robots by constructing a biomimetic ‘eye, brain and body’ triangle. This architectural shift allows the M1 Pro Max to perceive depth, make intelligent decisions and execute heavy-duty cleaning with a level of autonomy that redefines the category.
PRODUCT ALERT
If you’re curious about smart lighting but don’t want to wade through complicated set-ups, the Brilliant Lighting Smart LED Globe is a solid place to start.
Designed for everyday Australian homes, it slots straight into standard B22 or E27 fi ttings and delivers up to 800 lumens from a 9W LED – plenty of clear, crisp
light for living rooms, bedrooms or home of fi ces. Where it gets interesting is in the control. Through the BrilliantSmart app you can set schedules, create timers and automate routines so your lights switch on before you arrive home or dim as the evening winds down. It’s also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, meaning you can adjust brightness or change colours with a simple voice command.
Colour is part of the appeal here. With RGB plus white, you have millions of hues to play with, from warm white for winding down to brighter tones for focus. There’s even a bio-rhythm setting that gradually shifts colour temperature throughout the day. Add in IFTTT and BrilliantSmart device compatibility, and it becomes less about a single bulb and more about a connected home that works around you. Available from Discount Lighting and Fans, Warana.
MAXIMISING SPACE
Your front yard is more than an entrance. It is the first impression of your home.
grand design often comes with enormous challenges, so it is natural to wonder if you can design a great small front yard yourself.
For those who have minimal space, Re:Scape Design founder Ricky Burgess shares six of his best small front yard landscape design ideas to transform and maximise your space. Visit rescapedesign.com.au.
INVITING FOCAL POINT
It would help if you always started by having a captivating focal point in your front yard to make the design look appealing. A focal point tones up the look and feel of the courtyard, and it can be anything from a sculpture, bench, statue,
pathway, fountain or a beautifully decorated area for sitting. In short, it is the best friend of a landscape that draws visitors’ attention and gives them a warm welcome once they step in. It is the fi rst visitors look at and are gradually directed to other parts of the garden. So, while designing, keep the focal point as the top priority.
USE SYMMETRY
Did you know that well-balanced symmetry plays a crucial role in the landscape area, adding formality, stability, intentionality and order to a space? An improper symmetry looks vague, which disrupts the viewer’s eyes while glancing around, negatively impacting the space. Besides this, a good-toned, uniform symmetry adds life to the front yard landscape. It makes the space more extensive and more organised. To create design balance, you can use matching pots, evenly spaced shrubs and lighting, for example.
MAKE A COMFORTABLE SITTING SPACE
How can you call your front yard a yard if there is no space for sitting? A sitting space for socialising with friends or family makes the area more inviting and warm. You can even make it fully waterproof and cover it with a shed to prevent it from getting wet. You can make a fireplace around it or a fountain, whatever appeals to you the most and space allows for. A fire pit can create a cosy and relaxing atmosphere, while a fountain adds freshness. You can also
include seating options like a dining table, bar stools and chairs.
ADD PRIVACY
If the gardens are for socialising, having some privacy is okay. You can enjoy the gatherings or even your peaceful time without worrying about neighbours. For this, you can have ornamental grasses of different colours, lay plants and trees, wrap the entire outdoor space with fences, and best, create a wall with hedges. All this creates a seclusion and makes your outdoor space feel more personal for you and your family.
ADD A WATER FEATURE
The soothing sounds of water ease away the tensions of the day. Adding water features like a fountain, pool, pond, or any simple feature can create a sense of tranquillity, movement and a connection with nature. Also, the front yard landscape is complete with a water feature. It adds a touch of luxury to the garden, making you unwind well after the hustle and bustle of daily life. Adding a water feature can definitely make your outdoor space more inviting.
PROVIDE WALKWAYS
Imagine someone accidentally stepping on beautiful plants or lawns while walking in your yard. Separate walkways and functional gardens look aesthetically pleasing and are essential. Use natural stone, pavers, gravel, or a combination. Also, path edges can be made using rocks or wooden fences that add more detailing. On top of this, you can decorate using flower baskets and lighting for a finished look. Remember to choose the colour palette that complements your home.
PREPARE NOW FOR SPRING 2026
FULLY STOCKED WAREHOUSE FOR ALL YOUR PAVING NEEDS RIGHT HERE ON THE SUNSHINE COAST
• NEW POOLS
• POOL RENOVATIONS
• PAVING
• CLADDING • RETAINING WALLS • STEPPING STONES
• GLUE, GROUT, CLEANERS & SEALERS
Image credit: GHarman Photography Landscaping by Living Style Co
The Cesta natural bamboo pendant by CLA Lighting is a blend of modern design and traditional craftsmanship. Made from woven bamboo, this pendant elegantly diffuses light through its unique shade. It’s available from Discount Lighting and Fans , Warana.
EARTHY
MOVEMENT
Create a grounded space with natural textures and elements, such as terracotta, timber and stone.
This beautiful Anthea vase ceramic with its textures and tactile touch of hand-turn-style pottery, adds a natural touch to your home. Available from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre
HUGE FLOORSTOCK CLEARANCE CLOSING DOWN SALE
After 17 wonderful years, the owners of Indigo Living are retiring, and OUR STORE WILL BE CLOSING THIS IS YOUR FINAL OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE FROM OUR SHOWROOM
“Thank you for being part of the Indigo Living journey.” Terry-Anne & Chris.
The Alvar Twig bath mat from Domayne is made from 100 per cent cotton. With its multi-depth finish, this piece introduces both texture and luxury into the bathroom.
This handcrafted piece balances subtle texture with timeless design. Its ceramic base and curves create a soft, organic feel for your home. It’s from Coastal Drift Home, Caloundra and Kawana Shoppingworld.
Featuring terracotta tones, the rustic and bohemian Zigi cushion will brighten any couch. Linear cording, artistic knotting and zig zag patterns on an earthy cotton base create a textured look. Visit kasaustralia.com.au for local stockists.
The Naples Sand bathroom set from Adairs
FINISHING TOUCHES //
The Hooked on Palms wooden wall hooks are made by hand using reclaimed timber and finished in shades of navy (pictured), green, blue and white. Available from Coastal Drift Home, Caloundra and Kawana Shoppingworld.
BEAUTIFUL BOLDS
Blues, oranges, yellows and greens – add a splash of colour and fun to your interiors with these unique homeware pieces.
The Dahlia spray in orange from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre, features lifelike detailing, providing visual appeal without the high-maintenance hassle. Arrange in a vase alongside other colours or simple greenery.
Add a little fun and flair and create a feature wall with wallpaper. We like the colourings and patterns of the Arts and Crafts Canterbury Bells paper. It’s from Ivory T Wallpaper Australia. The Trudy vase by Bloomingville is made of stoneware and handpainted with fine details in red, green and light hues. It’s from Coast Store, Cotton Tree.
The acrylic on canvas Domestic Sanctum by Cath Lakshman. It’s available for purchase from Stevens Street Gallery, Yandina.
SPECIALISING IN BUILDERS AND DEVELOPERS
• DIRECT IMPORTERS OF TILES
• SUPPLY & INSTALL OF VINYL PLANK, CARPET, TIMBER & BAMBOO CALL INTO OUR SHOWROOM 1-9 ENDEAVOUR DR, KUNDA PARK Open Monday to Friday from 8am PH: 5476 6022
Folding Arm, Ziptrak, Motorised, Wire Guide, Fixed Frame, Pivot Arm, Multistop. ALL AUSTRALIAN MADE.
Roller Blinds, Romans, Venetians, Vertical Blinds, Panel Glides, Verishades, Ziptrak internal. ALL AUSTRALIAN MADE.