BuildHome NSW & Qld Issue #26.1

Custom home builders are ideal for those looking for something exclusive or individual. Typically, a custom home builder offers a high level of consultation, from design concept stage and onward. Most custom builders will provide a comprehensive one-stop service, whether in-house or by way of professional partners, with the goal of delivering something bespoke. To help you get the most out of the experience, we look at the many benefits of a custom build and how the process works. We also explore some of the latest trends in alfresco design. Every new home built today, whether by a custom or volume home builder, now includes at least one alfresco living zone, so we talk to the experts and ask them how to maximise those all-important outdoor spaces. Then we have a…

It could be you have a tricky site requiring a bespoke building solution or a family with very particular needs. It might be that you have built up a bit of equity over the years and the time is right to build a forever home that will cater to your every whim and see you through any changes the future might bring. Whatever the reason you decide to choose a custom build, it represents a major investment, but one that can bring great financial and lifestyle rewards. “A custom builder constructs one-of-a-kind homes that are specifically designed to your specifications,” explains John Ugarkovic, Director of Buildcraft Constructions. “In our case, we also offer a full design service, providing a high level of integration. We look after it all — design, approval,…

It doesn’t really matter whether the summer sun is in full force or the chill of winter is in the air, chances are you’ll be looking to your outdoor spaces when you want to entertain. A covered deck, terrace or pergola attached to the back of your house might be all you need, or you might prefer a well-appointed, fully-equipped outdoor room with a built-in kitchen and separate zones for cooking, dining and lounging. You might also want a swimming pool — great for keeping the kids entertained and a boon when hosting summer soirees. But you mustn’t forget about the landscaping. An alfresco entertaining area that looks out over nothing more than a sea of patchy lawn or a bland expanse of paving is a very sad sight indeed. And…

What is it that gives a home the wow factor? It’s often the unexpected, the thought-provoking concepts or designs that challenge contemporary design cultures, it’s pushing the boundaries of convention and embracing the freedoms of individuality. A wow factor element can be a focal point; it can set the mood of the space, whether it’s tranquil, vibrant, whimsical, refined or raucous. Or it can be a single element that steals the show — a soft textured rug, beautiful statuesque art, or an ornate light fitting. Every home needs an element that gives it an undeniable talking point, whether that’s a bold mural that dominates a wall, a stunning tile in a bathroom, a kitchen bench that’s a unique piece of art, or striking external architectural features. Italian architect Renzo Piano said, “One…

It is often difficult to know just where to start when building a new home. There are so many options out there in terms of design and layout it can be hard to visualise what will work best for your family. Display homes help you see the options in real life and get a good feel for what you like and what is possible. The creation of display villages has made viewing a broad selection of homes incredibly easy. Not only that, most project home builders now allow for a wide range of customisation so once you have chosen the design you really like, you can select the floor plan and inclusions that will best suit your individual needs and lifestyle.…

A perfect match for the relaxed, indoor-outdoor lifestyle Australians favour, the Hamptons-style home has captured the hearts of families right around the country. With its airy, generously proportioned interiors, fresh colour palette, coastal ambience and timeless classic architectural touches, it is a look that will never date. High ceilings, timber flooring, wall panelling, cornices, plantation shutters and a classic staircase all say “Hamptons” and these quintessential elements can all be found in Clarendon Homes’ stunning Sheridan 36. Says Ryan Barnett, Clarendon Homes’ Design Manager, “The soaring ceilings create a sense of space while the shutters and flooring contribute an air of coastal chic. The wall panelling, cornices and staircase all provide the sense of comfort that comes when you introduce traditional touches. “Of large scale, this two-storey home is aimed at families…