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From the time you book your free measure and quote to final installation of your new products, the feedback from our customers consistently demonstrates a level of service that exceeds their expectations.
This is something we are proud of and work hard to maintain.
Our first spring edition of the year is here, and as always, it features one of our most popular features – pools.
Across six pages, we share expert advice, from everything you need to know about choosing an in fi nity edge pool to heating options. Plus, we explore some great ideas to style the pool surrounds.
In this issue, we also head into the bathroom and share ideas for creating a space that’s both practical and stylish.
You’ll also find fresh spring inspiration on our style page, where we share some of our favourite floral finds, along with trending colours and looks in our regular finishing touches section.
Winning design inspiration
Styling like a professional
Whether you’re planning a major project or a spring refresh, we hope these pages give you the spark to get started.
Until next month, happy renovating.
Tips that will make a splash
Renovating to sell
SNAPSHOT
• 2 storey
• 5 bed
• 3 bathroom (plus three powder rooms)
• magnesium pool and spa.
Built by Adelaide Green Homes, adelaidegreenhomes.com.au/ project/42-somerton-park/
This stunning home blends natural beauty with minimalism, crafting a serene sanctuary that emphasises sustainable living. The use of eco-friendly materials adds both elegance and environmental aspects.
From the curved, sculptural stairwell to the sunken lounge, this home has plenty standout design moments. Polished concrete floors meet black cladding and a solid stone island, giving it an earthy yet modern edge.
In the midst of planning your home’s floor plan and design? Well, we have found the ideal property for all your inspiration requirements. Come with us as we take a look at the Australian HIA-CSR People’s Choice Home of the Year. And, with the Sunshine Coast’s own regional HIA event taking place next month, there will be plenty more design inspo to come. Visit hia.com.au for more.
The finished home is calm and considered, blending sustainable features with surprises from hidden rooms to underground lairs.
Internal lifts provide easy movement between spaces and the underground gym even has a purpose-built wrestling ring.
The inclusion of R4.0 insulation, double-glazed windows and eco-friendly materials enhances the home’s passive design.
MATERIALS USED
• Exterior walling: Framing 140mm stud wall frame. Hebel cladding in monument by Dulux; Vacoa cladding stained in black from Mortlock Timber.
• Floor coverings: EC Carpets Orchard bedroom carpet in foxwhelp; Bremworth Galet cinema wool carpet in sage, all from Choices Flooring.
• Main staircase and lower-level library floor: Chateau oak flooring 790 in espresso from Godfrey Hurst.
• Upper level hallway and kitchen flooring: Black forest wild oak engineered flooring for Linwood Collection from Choices Flooring.
The less habitable rooms such as the garage, laundry, walk-in pantry, kitchen cabinetry and alfresco are on the westerly aspect to reduce radiant heat in the summer. The bedrooms are located on the southern aspect, the cooler part of the home, to make sleeping in summer more comfortable.
Shop By Collection
• Accessories
• Bathroom Basins
• Heated Towel Rails
• Tapware & Showers
• Bathtubs
• Bathroom Mirrors
• Vanities & Storage
• Toilet Suites
• Kitchen & Laundryware
Out front, the landscaping is pared-back and timeless, a nod to classic Australian gardens with simple plantings, natural stonework and a slatted architectural fence that frames the home. Out the back is all about entertaining, a concept that is well-suited to Sunshine Coast life. A magnesium
rectangular pool stretches alongside the alfresco entertaining area, while an outdoor kitchen takes centre stage with a built-in barbecue, rangehood and wood-fired pizza oven set into a stone wall. There’s an outdoor fireplace and even an outdoor powder room tucked behind the alfresco space.
0400 678 092
Retail Showroom
121a Brisbane Road, Mooloolaba Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 4:30pm. Saturday & Sunday by appointment.
One of the highlights of this award-winning home is a luxury sunken lounge. Once a popular inclusion in homes during the 1980s and ’90s, the sunken lounge is making a quiet return. Originally celebrated for its cosy, conversation-friendly layout, it slipped out of fashion as open-plan living took hold. Now, opinions are split. Some designers argue the concept feels fresher outdoors, perhaps included in a garden terrace or wrapped around a firepit, where the lowered space adds intimacy without interrupting the flow inside. Others are reimagining the indoor version with crisp, modern finishes and lighter tones, swapping the retro colours, carpet and chunky fabrics for neutral fabrics, concrete steps and flooring or timber.
When planning a bathroom renovation, choosing the right fixtures can make all the difference. From taps and showerheads to tiles and cabinetry, each should balance style, quality and functionality. The team
Tiles set the tone for your bathroom, so choose well. Porcelain tiles remain a popular choice for their durability, affordability and premium finish. They can deliver a luxurious look without the high price tag and can handle the moisture and wear of a busy household. For those looking to make a statement, subway tiles in gemstone shades – think peacock green, rich teal and deep blues – can bring depth and added style and luxury to your bathroom. They work equally well as a feature wall in the shower or as a splashback behind the vanity. If you prefer a more understated scheme, neutral tones such as soft grey, sand or white can be layered with textured tiles for a subtle but sophisticated look. Tip: Use darker grout with coloured subway tiles to emphasise the pattern and make
Tapware should complement your overall bathroom style. Gunmetal, brushed brass and brushed nickel are popular design choices with each creating a different feel. Consider the shape and proportion of your tapware. Slimline designs work well in contemporary bathrooms, while more sculptural pieces suit traditional or luxe spaces. Meanwhile, showerheads should deliver a comfortable water flow. Rain-style heads bring added luxury, while adjustable handheld options offer flexibility for families. Wherever possible, choose waterefficient models to save on running costs without affecting performance. Tip: Colour in tapware can accentuate the overall quality of a bathroom.
Choose a cohesive palette and material mix for a harmonious look. For example, if you choose bold coloured tiles, keep cabinetry and tapware more restrained, or vice versa.
Wall-hung vanities remain a go-to option for a modern look. Flush Bathroomware offers a premium range in various sizes to suit everything from compact ensuites to larger family bathrooms. Choose a vanity width that works with your floor plan while leaving enough space to move comfortably around the room. Storage is also important. Integrated drawers and cabinets keep toiletries out of sight. Consider adding mirrored cabinets above the vanity for extra storage without encroaching on floor space.
Tip: Opt for soft-close drawers in vanities to prevent wear and reduce noise. Drawer runner quality is also key.
Stockists
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“Introducing floral patterns, prints and blooms, is an easy (and pretty) way to bring softness into your interiors”
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To celebrate the beginning of spring, we peel back the winter layers and share our favourite floral finds.
1. The colours and soft pattern of the Fleur multi-coloured quilt cover set is created from luxurious cotton-sateen threads. With a two-tone reversible print, it’s from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre. 2. Available from Adairs, the Arabella floral cushion features embroidered floral motifs, butterfly appliques and fringe details along the short sides. It will be a beautiful addition to your bedding or living space. 3. As pretty as a picture, the open mini peony stems are designed to be styled in multiples in a vase or pot. Available from Pillow Talk. 4. The GG Bros hand-painted table lamp is crafted from a multicoloured shade and an elegant antique brass base. Boasting a timeless charm, the juxtaposition of the glass and metal brings a touch of modernity to its design. Available from Discount Lighting and Fans, Warana. 5. The Hanami photomural from Ivory T wallpaper will create a unique feature wall with its soft palette and pattern. Visit wallpaperaustralia.com.au
Between muddy school uniforms, random sock piles, detergent spills and that occasional leaking tap, your laundry floor sees it all. Here’s the thing: if the flooring is wrong, you’ll notice. It could buckle, stain or feel hard underfoot. Choosing something that lasts and doesn’t turn into a hassle? That’s the goal. Here, the expert team from Beare Flooring talks us through the best flooring options for your laundry.
If you asked most flooring folks what they’d put in their own laundry, there’s a fair chance they’d say luxury vinyl. And for good reason. It’s tough. It handles water without flinching. And it actually looks good, like timber or stone, but without the stress. Spills? No drama. Leaks? Not a disaster. You won’t get that panicked “grab-a-towel” moment like you might with laminate. It’s built to cope. Plus, it’s soft-ish underfoot, which is welcome if you’re spending 20 minutes folding towels after dinner. Some versions even have underlay built in, so it feels a bit cushier and cuts down on that echoey stomp you sometimes get in hard floors. Yes, it costs more than standard vinyl, but you’ll likely only install it once. And if you’re handy with tools? You might not even need a tradie.
Tile has been a go-to for decades, especially in rooms where water’s always lurking. Ceramic or porcelain options are rock solid. They won’t warp, they laugh off spills and they’re hard enough to put up with years of wear. Design-wise, you’re spoiled for choice. Want something sleek and modern? No problem. A bit of charm with patterned tile? Also doable. And once it’s in, tile is super easy to clean, mop it and move on. That said, tile isn’t known for being soft. If you spend a lot of time in the laundry, it might not be the comfiest underfoot. And drop something heavy? You could be staring at a crack. It also usually needs a professional install, which can bump up the cost.
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Laminate is all about the look. If you want that hardwood style without the hardwood price, it delivers. And some modern options come with decent water resistance. But still, laundry rooms are wet zones and laminate can be a bit risky. Water that sneaks into the joins? It can cause swelling and warping, and there’s no easy fix once that happens. If you’re set on laminate, look for types rated for moisture-prone areas and consider sealing the edges just in case.
Standard vinyl doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it deserves a nod. It’s affordable, easy to install and tough enough for everyday spills. Perfect if you’re after something practical that won’t drain your reno budget. You can get vinyl that mimics wood or stone, and it’s soft and quiet, great for homes with young kids or pets. It’s also a DIY dream: easy to cut, easy to lay and easy to replace if anything goes wrong. The only drawback? It’s not quite as robust as luxury vinyl or tile. So if your laundry sees a lot of action, it might not last as long. But for many homes, it ticks the boxes.
Before you make a decision, here are some questions you should ask.
• Is it waterproof or just resistant? That one word matters.
• Will it handle daily wear and tear? Think baskets, trolleys, footy boots.
• Are you standing in there a lot? Harder floors might get tiring.
• How easy is it to clean? No one wants a highmaintenance laundry.
• Does it work with the rest of your house? You don’t want it to feel like a totally separate world.
• Who is installing it? Experts or is it a DIY job?
FLOORING TYPES TO AVOID IN THE LAUNDRY
Not all floors are made for laundry life. Some materials just don’t cope well with moisture or regular mess.
• Solid hardwood – Beautiful, but it’s a no-go for wet areas. Even small amounts of water can cause cupping, warping and long-term damage. No thanks!
• Carpet – Absorbs moisture and stains easily. It’s hard to clean, prone to mould and can hold onto odours. Just not practical in a laundry.
• Bamboo – While often marketed as water-resistant, bamboo can swell or split with prolonged exposure to moisture.
• Cork – Soft and eco-friendly, but highly absorbent unless perfectly sealed, and even then, it requires frequent maintenance.
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.
• Premium elite plantation shutters
• Typhoon plantation external shutters
• Bondi poly plantation shutters
• Odyssey poly plantation shutters
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Poolfab Pool + Landscape Creations managing director Sean Lynch shares his expert advice on infinity pools.
The benefits of owning a swimming pool extend far beyond a refreshing dip on a hot summer’s day. Swimming is a fantastic low-impact exercise that can help to improve overall health and fitness.
But the benefits don’t stop there. A swimming pool can also add considerable value to your home, making it a wise investment for the future.
If you’re looking for a pool that combines practicality and elegance, an infinity pool may be just what you’re after.
What is an infinity pool?
An infinity pool is a swimming pool with three visible edges and an invisible edge that appears like the water is flowing over the horizon.
Also known as a zero-edge pool, infinity pools give the illusion that one edge is missing, making the experience much more exciting. The missing fourth edge is of course an elaborate illusion and you’ll come in contact with the wall when you swim over to it. The concept behind the infinity pool
First-time users are often left wondering where the water goes and how the pool remains full with all the water flowing away over the invisible edge.
The infinity pool is built to have two levels or compartments. The first level is the actual pool with all the water that you swim in. This level is not so different from a regular concrete swimming pool, and you can bet the water also feels the same.
The second level is a basin, that is strategically built below the invisible edge to collect the
overflowing water. Not only does it collect this water, but it also pumps it back into the main pool via taps, creating a perfect water recycling system where no water is wasted.
Are infinity pools safe?
Safety is always a major concern for homeowners looking to install a swimming pool, and this becomes even more of an issue with an infinity pool, which appears to be missing an entire edge. Homeowners can rest easy however, as these pools have been tested and proven safe for use in residential and commercial properties.
Infinity pools have been proven to be as every bit as safe as regular swimming pools.
Additionally, infinity pool builders often ensure a perfect link-up between the two layers of the pool to keep the water flowing steadily. Although it’s been established that the missing edge is just a clever illusion, and that there’s no risk of accidentally sliding over the edge into a bottomless abyss, if you do wish to add further security to your pool, you
can choose to install additional safety features like handrails and barriers to support inexperienced or elderly swimmers.
Benefits of an infinity pool
What is it about infinity pools that are making them a must-have in homes and luxury buildings? Here are some important reasons to consider installing an infinity pool in your own home.
• Aesthetically pleasing: The first benefit of infinity pools is that they give a touch of luxury wherever they are installed. The intricate design makes them a spectacle to behold – they complement any home.
• Environmentally friendly: This is another outstanding benefit of infinity pools. Water is hardly ever lost with this pool type, and the water over the edge is collected for reuse.
• Economical: One major concern for pool owners is the rising cost of utility bills, and we all know how much water that swimming pools require. With the recycling system of infinity pools, you will definitely be spending less on water bills.
There are some specifics to sort to ensure you get the best from your pool.
• Contractor: One of the fi rst things to consider when planning a signi fi cant project like a swimming pool is your contractor. Since the success of this project relies largely on the skills of your contractor, you need to be certain that your pool builder is not only experienced, but also trustworthy. In fi nity pools are different from regular swimming pools and a regular swimming pool builder may be unable to handle the task.
We design and build complete pool and landscape packages
• Space: Infinity pools are about the same size as regular swimming pools and you already know they require ample space. In fact, you may need a slightly bigger space to include the basin for the overflowing water. If the space in your yard is not big enough, you may want to opt for a different pool type.
• Design: One of the biggest selling points of infinity pools is their design. You can choose to personalise this design for maximum satisfaction too. You may want to go over some infinity pool designs with your contractor to select a suitable one for your home.
• Creative all-inclusive 3D designs.
• Detailed and itemised all-inclusive quotes, without hidden extras.
• Quality equipment and finishes on every project.
• Professional project management and weekly client updates.
• Personal service from concept to completion with our unique 6 tier service guarantee.
• Celebrating over 47 years of designing and building pools on the Sunshine Coast.
• Build with the industry professionals and let us show you the future of pool building.
• Contact us today for a free onsite design consultation for your project.
Here in Queensland, we’re lucky to enjoy a long swimming season, but why not make it even longer? An electric heat pump is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to heat your swimming pool and make the most of your investment. If you’re considering pool heating options, here are some tips from the experts at Clark Rubber.
What is an electric pool heat pump exactly?
A pool heat pump works by extracting heat from the surrounding air and transferring it into your pool water. Unlike gas or solar systems, heat pumps don’t burn fuel or rely solely on sunlight, they run on electricity and can maintain consistent temperatures regardless of the weather.
This makes them ideal for extending your swimming season, especially in cooler climates or during the shoulder seasons.
THE BENEFITS
1. Energy efficiency:
Electric heat pumps are incredibly energy-
We have a fantastic range of pool mosaics, pool coping pavers/ tiles and pool surrounds We have a range to suit any style pool and home.
Speak to our friendly team about a free quote for supply & installation of your new tiles.
ef
cient, using only a fraction of the energy required by gas heaters. Many models have a COP (coefficient of performance) of five or higher, meaning for every 1kW of electricity used, they generate 5kW plus of heat.
2. Lower running costs
While initial costs can be higher than other options, heat pumps can save money in the long run with their low daily operating costs, especially when paired with a solar pool cover to retain heat overnight.
3. Consistent water temperature
Unlike solar systems, which rely on sunshine, electric heat pumps work rain or shine. Set your desired temperature and the heat pump does the rest, automatically.
4. Eco-friendly operation
Electric heat pumps are a cleaner, more sustainable way to heat your pool. No emissions, no fossil fuels – just efficient heat from the air.
5. Quiet and reliable
Modern full-inverter models run
quietly and adjust their output based on demand, reducing noise and increasing lifespan.
Is a pool heat pump the right option for you?
Electric heat pumps are ideal for:
• homeowners who want year-round swimming
• families in temperate or cooler climates
• pool owners looking for low daily operating costs
• those who want a set-andforget heating solution.
The size of your heat pump depends on:
• your pool size (litres)
• desired swimming temperature
• whether you use a solar cover
• your local climate.
For best results, Clark Rubber always recommends combining a heat pump with a solar pool cover, which helps reduce heat loss and significantly lowers energy bills.
Pavers are the obvious starting point, creating a solid surface around the pool. Larger format tiles can create a sleek, modern look, while irregularly shaped flagstones bring a softer, more organic feel. Stone can also be carried through to steps, garden edging and feature walls, tying the whole outdoor space together. Using the same material in different areas will give the overall space a cohesive finish.
When it comes to pool surrounds, natural stone is a practical and timeless option. It’s durable, hard-wearing and able to handle the demands of a wet outdoor environment.
STYLING WITH STONE
The natural look of stone blends easily with most garden styles. Pale limestone or travertine complements a modern, minimal or coastal design. Granite works well in modern settings, while sandstone suits a more relaxed or coastal approach. For added effect, pair the stone with timber decking, or run tiles directly up to the pool’s edge for a seamless finish. Lighting can also highlight the texture of the surface at night, making the pool area as appealing after dark as it is in the daytime.
KITCHEN SHOP QLD NOW ON THE COAST FOR 25 YEARS PROVIDING FULL KITCHEN AND BATHROOM RENOVATIONS
For on site consultation and measure go to web site or contact by phone or email below for booking appointments. For showroom appointments – please email on the emails below for new temporary Caloundra showroom by appointment only.
Designer Alan Schull for Kitchen Shop Qld
QBCC: 15332543
OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs 8am-3pm Fri: 8am-2pm
Travertine, limestone, sandstone, marble and bluestone are commonly used around pools. Each has its own characteristics. Sandstone offers warmth in colour but needs sealing to resist staining. Granite is one of the most durable stones, with a speckled surface that can hide marks and scratches. Limestone is smooth and sophisticated, often in lighter shades, while beautiful travertine remains popular thanks to its naturally textured surface, which provides grip underfoot.
Getting the installation right is just as important as the material itself. A slip-resistant finish is essential, especially in areas that will stay wet. Adequate drainage needs to be factored in too, preventing water from pooling on the surface. Sealing is another step not to skip as it extends the life of the stone and helps resist chemicals from the pool.
Natural travertine surrounds this coastal-style pool.
Specialising in natural stone wall cladding, cobbles, crazy pave, tiles, and bespoke designer fireplaces.
We offer an exclusive collection of high-quality materials and heating solutions that blend aesthetics, durability and functionality.
What the experts say:
“Not only do they withstand Queensland’s coastal climate, but they also offer natural slip resistance, keeping spaces safe while enhancing the relaxed, resort-style feel of your home. With their earthy tones and organic textures, natural stone tiles blend seamlessly into the coastal landscape, creating outdoor areas that are both functional and beautiful.”
– Saltwater Natural Stone and Fireplaces, Mooloolaba.
Unlike some man-made surfaces, natural stone tends to stay cooler underfoot, making it a good choice for hot Queensland summers. The variation in tones and textures also adds depth and interest that doesn’t date as trends shift.
Receive 10% off the RRP on our natural stone cladding when you mention this advert.
In order to profit from renovating an investment property, it’s important to think about who your future tenant is likely to be and how much rental income you could generate. Here are the top tips from Commonwealth Bank. For more information, visit commbank.com.au.
Finding the right investment property: It’s worth working out what type of properties have the strongest demand in a given suburb before buying a unit and embarking on a renovation project.
For example, an oversupply of one-bedroom units in a certain area should make you wary of purchasing a similar property. However, if two-bedroom units are
in demand among renters, then establish what type of renovations prospective tenants will be drawn to within those units.
Changes to match the property:
Ideally, you should make renovations that are appropriate to the style of unit. If the apartment building is brick, has aluminium framed windows and was built in the 1970s or ’80s, for example,
adding period features from another era may stand out for the wrong reasons.
Any changes you make should also depend on the structure of the apartment. You’ll want to make sure you’re creating well-proportioned rooms and making the most of windows and balconies.
Little tricks can make an older apartment look and feel contemporary. Removing cove standard cornices, for example, and square settings can make the ceiling seem loftier.
Spatial awareness: Another aspect many tenants tend to focus on is space. In older developments, the kitchens are typically in separate rooms and often quite large. Open plan can give you more opportunity for ‘dead’ circulation space to have more than one function.
Even the perception of space can work some magic, making the unit feel bigger than it really is. You can create a greater sense of space by, for example, pulling out kitchen benchtops that run along a wall and adding
an island bench instead.
In the bathroom, a small shower area and neat sink off the wall will take up less room than a big bath and sink on top of a boxy cabinet. But keep in mind that storage space is also high on the priority list of many tenants, so you’ll need to strike a balance between the two.
Location and floorplan: A unit’s location and its floorplan should also be top of mind when you’re looking at potential properties to buy and renovate. You can do all the updating you want, but if the apartment is in a spot that isn’t popular among tenants (and buyers later down the track if you decide to sell), this could impact your profit potential.
Similarly, you can’t easily change the floorplan of an apar tment, so it’s likely to shape your renovation strategy. For example, if the floorplan shows the rooms are in an odd arrangement, the apartment layout is crammed or there is poor access to light, the potential to change it may be limited and costly.
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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The Archie towel in lilac is made from premium combed cotton and features a contemporary arch pattern. Visit Adairs to view the range.
Welcome the prettiness of spring into your home with a touch of purple.
Bring a splash of violet to your dining or coffee table with the Mystique Collection coasters. Created in collaboration with celebrated artist Estelle Michaelides and inspired by a Renaissance Art Nouveau influence, the pattern features intricate botanicals, blooms and green vines. Visit maxwellandwilliams.com.au for local stockists.
• Curtains & Sheers • Indoor & Outdoor Seats • Cushions • Roman Blinds • Wallpapers • Fabrics / Upholstery 5 / 20 King Street, Caboolture Ph: 0422 599 084 | ivoryt@bigpond.com
Showroom Open: Thurs, Fri & Sat 9am-4pm Phone for Measure & Quotes
The Kiwified original acrylic painting by JE Designs will bring a fun touch to your kitchen or dining room wall. Framed in oak, the artwork is available through Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery , Minyama.
This faceted glass vase with metal accents features a subtle purple-pink hue. With its jewel-like design, the Eric vase will work well in most interiors. It’s from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre
The Magical hue from Haymes Paint. To view the range, visit Duke’s Paint Shop in Nambour. A bold statement piece for maximalist decor
It’s
Replace your everyday towel hooks with this quirky pair. Crafted from metal, the set blends coastal charm with practicality. They are available from Bed Bath N’ Table
The hottest trend of the season comes courtesy of the ocean – in the form of the humble lobster.
This is definitely one of our favourites. Available from Coastal Drift Home in Caloundra, the Coastal Catch cushion features a pretty blue and a playful pattern.