e t e r n a l i c o n s

zipp

2015-10-30T13:07:00.006+11:00

Today I have re-visited every one of my own blog posts in a fruitless search for an image of our kitchen, pre-plastering. I was hoping for a visual reminder of the exact location of a big ceiling beam before drilling holes in the ceiling for downlights! This ~~time wasting~~ experience has provided me with three revelations:

1. When building, take some snaps pre-plaster for later reference if required.

2. Preferably store pics somewhere you can find them. (Having experienced this dilema before) LOL

3. I realy enjoyed re-visiting my own inspiration past posts. (eeek!) To me, they illustrate how my design direction has morphed and somewhat matured. They also help me identify 'my' aesthetic through repetition whilst highlighting when I am temporarily 'swayed' by a fad / trend. Interesting. (To me. Ba ha ha)

Sooo...having found zipp in regards to the hidden beam, here's a fave design project that's been around the traps for awhile but one I'd like to include here for my own aforementioned benefit!

ZIPP Shelter

Interested in more?

A terrific synopsis of this building and the concept behind it can be found HERE.

x KL

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You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

October wish list

2015-10-14T16:53:00.002+11:00

With the house progress gaining momentum after being so slow for a few years, I've found myself in a decorating hiatus.
Unpacking previously bought treasures has reminded me that we have enough.

And, until I find the spot for some items, I cannot foresee where any gaps might be.

Everything continuing is now hinged on the two kitchens being completed in order to put things away, live functionally (on at least one level) and clear some space to put everything in place.

I'm even offering freebies on my local Trading Post to clear excess!

Our joiner has promised the additional 'bits' that were missing from the first fit-out will be delivered and installed next week, so I'm crossing my fingers and toes that my patience will be rewarded!

In the meantime, without a lot to do (there's no point cleaning the copious dust until it literally settles) I've ~~wasted time~~ occupied myself trawling the net to explore the latest offerings.

1. Still a favourite online store; Harold's. Love these crisp, sophisticated cushions.

2. Muuto Dots. Perfect in every way.

3. Cristina Re Mugs. Love the variety of mix 'n match patterns.

4. Nice dimensioned armchairs are hard to find. Love the Hudson from Orson & Blake.

5. Out of my stratosphere $ wise, this Garden Life planter is a stunner!

Just dreaming ATM!

x KL

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Year of The House: September update

2015-10-05T16:23:00.002+11:00

#YOTH15 update for Sea-Spray #2:

I promised you that September would be a Progress-Packed month and it certainly has been.
David has devoted allot of time working here at home so, there's lots to report!

Carpet installed to Playroom, Main, J's and Guest Bedrooms!

Playroom carpeted and lounge in place!

WE MOVED UPSTAIRS!!!!!!

Occupying Main Bedroom at last. Art hung. Those lamps are too big! Eeek!

Guest Bedroom ready for visitors!

As we have now vacated this room, it's ready for guests! Love my charcoal carpet!

Ordered this bed for one of the downstairs bedrooms as an update.

Image via Freedom

Stone top for playroom, Custom entertainment unit delivered and all pieces assembled.

Now to get the telly installed!

The custom joinery robe for the Guest bedroom has been installed, ready for painting.

TIP: We saved a motsa here by ordering craftwood doors for us to paint in satin enamel, the same as all the other doors in the house. The difference between doing this and ordering two-pac saved thousands!

The fireplace for the main lounge is ready to be collected. Yippee!
David just waiting for some 'muscles' to help collect and unload here. The supplier doesn't deliver. WTF?

Kitchen and Laundry joinery installed!

Main Kitchen Install: Lots of 'missing' pieces!

With two big installs at one time, there were bound to be a few hiccups! We are missing drawer and door fronts, trim pieces, an appliance and oven cupboard to name a few. Pretty pics will have to wait! This week I will organise for the stonemasons to come and template the bench tops....

Laundry / Kitchenette; Still some parts to come too...

Stone Walling feature stone delivered

$500 delivery fee on this lot. The added cost of building in a regional area!

Custom steel handrail for internal stairs installed!

The fixing plates will be hidden in wall & behind a timber riser.

Frameless Glass balustrades for top decks installed.

Support sticks there till grout dried only!

Ordered Faux Grass for Poolside deck area.

Was able to get only one Fencing quote! Accepted this and installation is now complete!

A 5' fence was installed...it's now 6' as ordered. Ooops!

Timber Flooring installed to all areas; upper and lower halls, stairs, study, lounge, dining and kitchen.

Study looking a bit Ho-hum.

We decided to wall hang David's desktop. The supports will be painted the wall colour but the whole room looks pretty ordinary. It looks worse now with all the busy paraphernalia a working office contains. Think I'm going to just figuratively and physically, 'shut the door' on this room for awhile!

Lounge room Bookcase shelves installed.

Waiting to be painted now...

I haven't done much blogging as we've been so busy with the house and life in general.
I'm popping updates on Instagram more frequently if youre interested in the 'gaps'!

Renovating? Building? Got some House Projects to complete?

Join in! #YOTH15

(also on instagram of course!)

Missed the progress? Catch up here:

August

July

June

April / May

February / March
January / February

x KL

Thank you for stopping by my blog.

You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

Dream Getaway...

2015-09-17T18:11:00.001+10:00

I have always loved Collette Dinnigan's style; the beautiful, feminine apparel she produced for 25 years was always lust worthy. I was surprised but excited to hear that she was shifting her considerable design nous to a new focus; Interior Design and Hotels.

Following, are some stunning images of two penthouses recently renovated and reimagined by her at Bannisters By The Sea. Simply, Stunning!

Like her clothing label, these penthouses exude a quiet and refined luxury.

When the dust settles here, this would be a perfect getaway!

x KL

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You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

Year of The House: August update

2015-09-08T17:48:00.003+10:00

#YOTH15 update for Sea-Spray #2:

AUGUST
Custom entertainment unit joinery for playroom delivered and assembled, steel base ordered and delivered, Stone top ordered.

Identical to the unit in our Family room seen above, but with a freestanding base!

Still Painting the house....

Four deck areas tiled and sealed. Only the pool area is now to be completed.

More plumbing and gas-fitting completed.

The custom joinery robe for the Guest bedroom has been installed ready for painting.

Ordered the fireplace for the main lounge. Yippee!

Sample Image: Ours will have logs / coal and be square set

Kitchen and Laundry joinery ordered!
(YUP....We've committed to BLACK!!!!)

Ordered Stone Walling feature stone:

Eco Outdoors Lichen Split Stone Walling

Designed and ordered custom steel handrail for internal stairs.

Some inspiration pics and fixing ideas....

Frame less Glass balustrades for top decks ordered and delivered.

Booked Carpet installation dates!!!! *Happy Dance!*

Ordered Faux Grass for Poolside deck area.

Trying to get fencing contractor quotes...everyone is so busy after the storm damage earlier in the year!

I just want simple, colorbond fencing....

Next month, we anticipate lots of these orders will be delivered / installed.
September should be a Progress-Packed month!

Renovating? Building? Got some House Projects to complete?

Join in! #YOTH15

(also on instagram of course!)

Missed the progress? Catch up here:

July

June

April / May

February / March
January / February

x KL

Thank you for stopping by my blog.

You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

Bubbles...

2015-08-31T21:31:00.002+10:00

I am so excited!

Two bedrooms upstairs (our main and J's), the playroom and lower guest bedroom are being carpeted on Wednesday! This had hinged on the timber flooring being laid in the halls adjacent to those rooms, which is what David did today!.

Yesterday we finalised little bits and pieces in the main bedroom en suite in anticipation of the 'big move' upstairs after years of living in only the lower portion of the house.

Heated Towel Rails and shelves for pretty bibs 'n bobs!

Whoop! Whoop!

If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know that I've been unpacking some treasures and purchases from eons ago too. It all feels a bit Christmass-y to be honest! LOL!

The first thing I'd like to do after Wednesday is to have a bubble bath in our freestanding tub...
which made me realise that I have nowhere to rest my celebratory glass of Verve!

Eeeek! How on earth could I have overlooked an item of such importance ? !

Sooo...although it wont materialise before Wednesday, THE bubbly resting spot / table / stool has been on my immediate hit-list!

Here are my (seriously whittled down), main contenders:

L to R: Warren Platner Side Table, Metallic Grande Drum, Mark Tuckey Egg-cup stool, Marcel Wanders Stone Stool, Bamileke stool.

And below are some inspirational images of similar stools / tables like these in situ:

More delicious decisions! (In the interim, a box will suffice!)
But bring on the Bubbles!

x KL

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Happy Birthday to Moi!

2015-08-27T10:08:00.001+10:00

This year I choose no candle counting...

(At least I'm not as old as I will be next year!)

x KL

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You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

The grass is always greener....

2015-08-26T22:20:00.003+10:00

...when it's F A U X !

My last post detailed where I'm planning to place a small area of Artificial lawn.
This product has come a long way since first developed as ChemGrass in 1965 and marketed as Astro Turf a year later!

Although short napped versions are still used, as originally intended, to provide easily maintained indoor sport's fields, today's options include longer lengths which are visually more appealing to the domestic market. They are softer, more natural looking and are a great alternative for areas where natural grass is difficult to either grow or maintain.

I met with a local Artificial Grass supplier today and chose ours:

It's a longer napped brand and feels very soft and dense.
We chose to go this route for several reasons:

It was more cost effective than the travertine tiles thus lowering the overall deck cost outlay
Visually broke up and softened this very large expanse of hard flooring;
I'll get allot of 'green' without multiple weighty pots
No maintenance!

The only negative is the heat. Being 'plastic' it will get hot underfoot. But, no hotter than the travertine tiles. Aesthetically, it will look cooler....

Anywho, with an acceptable quote expected tomorrow and, with some sunshine predicted for next week, this will be another tick we can make, signialling our getting closer to completing SeaSpray #2!

Here are some of my favourite inspiration pics from my Pinterest boards which I've pulled out many, many times in order to finally convince David, that this was a good idea!....

via: The Block

And the image that started the concept for me:

Matt Leacy's Green Rooftop; Landart Landscapes

Looking forward to the 'green' light on this one!
*cough!*

x KL

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Detailing: The Cabana

2015-08-24T17:43:00.003+10:00

"At the Copa, Copa-cabana!"

It's funny to be detailing The Cabana. At Copacabana...
It is actually a patio / veranda area that is partially covered by the overhanging dining room above.
When we initially applied to council to build, we had some difficulties with our floorspace ratio, until we renamed this deck area a 'cabana'. Problem solved. It's all in a name...

I've mentally divided this area into four zones:

1: The pool. 2: The pool deck. 3: The Cabana and 4: The deck.

The pool zone will have the pool...duh! and a high wall to the left for privacy. I wanted the wall to be dry stacked stone but slate tiles are the fiscal compromise.

I wanted Alpine Dry-stacked stone (above) The budget determined Lichen Split slate tiling...

I'm planning a bridge / deck area at the end too; something like the Pinterest image below, but simpler...

The pool will have travertine coping which we've already bought and can be seen below:

We had the pool form work done a few years ago but illness delayed the concrete pour. Now the steel is too rusted so we need to remove it and start again. Ooops!

An expensive mistake! Hopefully this will happen next month so we'll be swimming by summer! The front wall will be solid masonry with a slither of glass on top so we gain swimming privacy without losing the view when dining. Something like this:

The pool will have a nifty little beach area too, similar to the image below.

We would prefer to tile the pool interior but pebblecrete might be more money wise. That decision is still being debated! If I had no restrictions, I'd tile the pool with slate al-la-bali-style!

The pool deck is to the right of the pool. Both areas are isolated from the cabana and house by a combination of solid walling and frameless glass.

I added the solid walling (shown on the plan in red) to create a niche into which the BBQ can sit.
I'm planning on inserting a patch of faux grass to soften and break up the large expanses of travertine tiling.

I'm currently 'playing' with cute little faux grass samples

As there are no garden beds on this level (All this area sits on top of the Garage / storerooms) the grass will add some much needed green too!

Above is my all time favourite example of how beautiful faux lawn can look!

I have purchased a lounge for this area too.

My bargain Myer Vue Sunlounge!

The Cabana itself is covered by the top storey of the house. The three big stacking doors between it and the family room retract completely into a wall allowing unfettered access between areas. The television is easily viewed from outside if required. The laundry / kitchenette / bar room opens onto the cabana, via bi fold windows. and the bench top will run through to outside creating the 'bar'.

via Pinterest

I've just ordered the joinery (Whoop whoop!) and these stools for this area:

There is also a mini bar fridge, accessible cabana side, for refreshments when the bartender is having a dip! LOL! The area will be furnished with one of our existing day beds, a dining table and chairs. (I'm thinking the chairs will need to be replaced...)

We have two day beds to choose from. Images above are of our last home.

The flooring in this area, as elsewhere, is French pattern Travertine which has just been completed.

Half way and ungrouted. All the Cabana floor is finished now!

I'd like to add just one or two big pots with statement plants. Simple and contemporary. So far, the only really BIG planters I've found are w a y out of my budget (try $4K!) so not sure if I'll achieve this!

The deck is a small area providing the laundry with access to the rear clothes drying area and guests access to an externally located bathroom when wet from the pool.

The deck off the Laundry / Pool W.C.

Finished Pool W.C.

We have decided to screen this area from the Cabana to create a windbreak from the South. (Shown in red on plan above) Copacabana is notoriously windy with most of the gusts coming from the South. As we face North, we are well protected by the house's bulk but this opening was creating a wind-tunnel that needed to be addressed. We'll use timber to match the lower bar area.

the completed bar front

Well, that's this area detailed. There was a myriad of decisions in this zone alone and I'm really looking forward to seeing it all come together. Rain is forecast for this week so that will slow us down but then we'll be full steam ahead again!

x KL

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Come on baby, light my fire...

2015-08-23T21:33:00.001+10:00

The time has come to turn our attention to our lounge room, proposed fireplace.

Our choice back HERE was for an Ecosmart, Bio ethanol Fireplace

When we designed the house, we knew we wanted a fireplace to be the focal point of the main lounge.

I was keen to have a room without a television...somewhere for adult entertaining with no black-box in sight! (Televisions are installed in the playroom / snug and family rooms).

We initially installed gas fittings, anticipating a gas insert but after seeing the Ecosmart display at a Grand Designs Show, we were swayed by this new, clean fuel and visually more substantial option.

The room is large so the scale was, in my opinion, perfect.

Fast forward to this year (The Year of The House!) and we have spent the last few months designing our custom made fire box and obtaining bio ethanol burner costs. Those quotes, now in hand, have almost tripled since we first entertained this option, as more information about bio ethanol use has become available with its increased adoption. Many commercial establishments, and early adopters, are now removing theirs due to high fuel prices and health concerns relating to the lack of flues.

Long story - short? We were back to the 'drawing board'....

With the fireplace surround already framed and gyprocked to accommodate a 2 metre firebox, without major re-hashing, we had very limited options:

Lopi Linear: 1550 mm wide

Real Flame Simplicity: 1800 mm wide

Jetmaster Horizon: 2000mm wide

To be honest, the Real Flame was my preferred choice.

The representative met me on site (the only one to do so) and was extremely professional. I loved the product, the variety of options and the overall look of this fire compared to rivals. This company even do a 3300 mm version. W O W! And money-wise it was a very close call.

But balancing the look I wanted with size (width) and budget had me ordering the Jetmaster Horizon Lowline Inbuilt in the 2000mm wide option (I customised the log / coals feature)

I've ordered a 'frameless' version so we can square-set the plaster up to the firebox.

It's not a deep nor as high as we'd wanted but for our budget, and the pre-built wall cavity, still creates the grand focal point we initially desired. It has a one month lead time which is also pretty good too...

Above is how I hope it will look...

P R O G R E S S !

x KL

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Heart felt catch-up

2015-08-22T18:43:00.002+10:00

Well, its been an action packed few weeks here.

After my last post, I had an emergency dash to hospital with some serious cardiac problems. Although I've had a dodgy ticker since birth, and have had two open heart surgeries, this episode seriously scared me. Lots of intravenous drugs and a few thousand joules later (cardioversion) and I was home feeling better; to then succumb to pneumonia. WTF?

Add a near fatal car incident too...if the last paragraph doesn't have you agreeing with my cussing...

Anywho... forced bed rest has me now feeling 110%. My cardiologist has remixed my meds. My new car has been returned to the manufacturer for investigation. I have organised my Will, and appointed a Power of Eternity and Enduring Guardian. (W A Y overdue...so a good thing) and been prompted to really contemplate what's important in life!

It's ALL GOOD.

In perspective.

I'm still here....

...and I'm counting my blessings.

Normal house-y post transmissions will resume ASAP!

x KL

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Needs. Wants. A fine line.

2015-08-02T16:13:00.000+10:00

Well, I've been trying to walk that thin line for a few months and, oops!

I kinda crossed it a few times....

I've pre-ordered three of these stools (not available till Nov / Dec unfortunately) for the lower deck area to sit up against the bar. Whilst they're not modern nor made for outside, they are the right height, are pretty 'classic' style wise, will be undercover and should add some textural warmth to the pool area. I've been looking for the 'perfect' stool for this spot for two years and I loved these as soon as I saw them. The rattan will hopefully withstand wet-tog-bottoms too!

This large Juju purchase was definitely a wee bit naughty. I have a white one that I was planning to hang in the lounge but this rare-coloured black / blue had me smitten. Not sure where I'll hang her, I've definitely got multiple spots it would look stunning

I've just collected my Ian Baguskas print 'Waiting', from the framers. I love its subtle colours but am kicking myself that I hesitated and missed out on one of the larger-sized releases.

Added a 'Botanical' motif plate to my Spode Blue Room collection of dinner plates. So pretty!

This Springbok cushion belongs with me. I know, we are going to be very happy together.
It arrived so beautifully wrapped that I felt like I'd received a present. (Don't think hubby will feel the same way when he sees the bank statement though) LOL!

HAD to buy these nifty wire baskets in Rose Gold and Black. At $12 each from Kmart you better get your skates on! Have you seen the rest of Kmart's newest homewares range? I wanted just about one of everything!

Can't wait to get more of the house finished so I can actually start decorating with some of my goodies!

x KL

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You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

Year of the house: July Update

2015-08-01T12:25:00.000+10:00

So...., here is the latest #YOTH15 update for Sea-Spray #2:

JULY
Custom entertainment unit for playroom ordered.
Rendering is now 98% complete!
David painting the rear of the house as I type....

Tiling of two top external decks complete!

The largest top deck area is waterproofed, screed-ed and sealed ready for tiling Monday.

Bath installed in Main Bedroom en suite
Stone top for WIR dressing table delivered, but still to be installed.

The custom joinery robe for the Guest bedroom has been ordered.
Obtaining quotations for the lounge room fireplace. Scary. Very, very scary!
Kitchen and Laundry joiner decided upon. Waiting for 3D drawing before finalising design.
Obtaining quotations for Stone Walling features...

I've also bought a few more decor bits 'n pieces for the house which I'll post soon!

Hooray for progress!!!!!

Renovating? Building? Got some House Projects to complete?

Join in! #YOTH15

(also on instagram of course!)

Missed the progress? Catch up here:

June

April / May

February / March
January / February

x KL

Thank you for stopping by my blog.

You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

....and in breaking news

2015-07-21T14:51:00.002+10:00

In exciting news, Johanna Griggs and Peter Colquhoun along with the Better Homes & Gardens TV crew, have filmed a segment featuring The Avoca Beach House. My husband was the builder of this award winning home designed by architects Steven Isaacs and Lisa Saville of Architecture Saville Isaacs.

I've posted about this home before HERE, and am very excited about seeing it presented on the programme and hearing what Pete and Joh say about it.

Screen grab from TV Better Homes & Gardens advertising

The segment will be aired on the 7 network

this Friday, July 24 between 7 - 8:30 pm.

If you watch it, don't forget to let me know what you think!

x KL

Thank you for stopping by my blog.

You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

pondering product possibilites....

2015-07-11T16:04:00.001+10:00

With progress here gathering pace, I've turned my attention to the joinery proposed for the kitchen, laundry, playroom, office and lounge. In doing so, I stumbled across an impressive new product (well, new to me!) called Maximum. It is a pressed porcelain product available in generous panel sizes which is both light weight and resilient. The range includes finishes resembling wood, concrete and marble in several surface options.

Marmi Calacatta is my favourite in a matt finish. The large sheets are absolutely stunning. There are four print variations and bookend options too ensuring little repeat even when sheeting walls. It is very cost effective compared to real stone and its light weight and practicality make it a very flexible product.

I'm totally hooked but need to examine further a few concerns such as its suitability as a bench top and possible 'chipability', given it's essentially a 6 mm tile.

Here's some lust worthy in-situ pics from the Maximum website:

At the very least, I think I've found my kitchen splash back material!

x KL

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You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

Year of The House: update

2015-07-03T16:20:00.000+10:00

Half way through the year, we remain committed to our January pledge to action some major progress at La Hacienda.
And I probably should stop calling it that, as there is nothing remotely Mexican about the house.
When we bought here, the existing house (now demolished) was called Sea-Spray and we kept the house-name sign to restore and re-badge the new build...

Sea-Spray #1!

So...., here's the latest #YOTH15 update for Sea-Spray #2:

JUNE
Continued to seek quotations for joinery...
J's bathroom / powder room, shower screen and mirror installed.

P.C.s fitted to J's bathroom / powder room. Room complete! YAY!
David & I tiled our main bedroom en suite walls. *pats self!*
Custom shaving cabinet and vanity installed to main bedroom en suite.
Main bedroom en suite, Shower screen, niche shelving, W.C door and mirror ordered and installed.

Rendering quotes received and one accepted.
Scaffolding erected to rear of house.

Electrician installed data points throughout house.
Decided on, and ordered carpet. 6-9 week lead time! WTF!?

Cavalier Bremworth Inscape and Verve: in Slate, Carpets

Main bed wardrobe fit out complete. Yippee!!!!

Bath installed to Main Bedroom En suite.
Joinery quote received for custom entertainment unit for playroom.
Rendering starts and coat one complete!

Finally found a new tiler!

ON A ROLL......!!!!

Renovating? Building? Got some House Projects to complete?

Join in! #YOTH15

(also on instagram of course!)

Missed the progress? Catch up here:

April / May

February / March
January / February

x KL

Thank you for stopping by my blog.

You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

Bits 'n Bobs AND a progress report

2015-06-26T23:55:00.000+10:00

School holidays have started here (Whoop! Whoop!) and my gorgeous nieces, aka the Glamourzons, nephew and SIL are visiting. YAY!

We're in a mess house wise, but who cares? ! We're planning on an overseas jaunt to Asia with them next year so we'll be dreaming and scheming....

The house progress is continuing. I'll do a YOTH update soon. At this point there's lots of quote gathering and budget balancing. Boring but practical foundations for getting the house finished!

The carpet has FINALLY been ordered and although the 6-9 week lead time seems excessive, (slow boat from from New Zealand!) the time frame will probably suit us well.

I chose Cavalier Bremworth Inscape (pictured left) for all the upstairs areas and also for the insert piece in the family room, located on entry level. A less dense, shorter napped version called Verve (above, right) will go in the downstairs bedrooms to help us stay within our newly formed budget. It's the same colour (why they look different in the pics is beyond me) and both are solution dyed nylon for colour fastness and durability.

The main bedroom robe fit out is complete and I'm slowly 'moving' things into it and unpacking stored clothes (many which no longer fit me...*sob*) 8 bags for Vinnies and counting!

I decided on simple white laminate, without drawers, which was cost effective. I added one drawer only to a 'dressing table' area. (The missing bit on the left in the image above is now fitted!) The drawers in our last home's WIR were used mostly for shoes and since we I have a designated shoe cupboard, I thought the open shelves would suffice. And of course we have bedsides and a beautiful bone-inlay chest in the main bedroom too!

I'm considering fitting the dressing table drawer with jewelery trays for ease of access. The pics on the left below, are from the 'Stackers' range available from Howard's Storage World. My inspiration image is on the right...

The range from HSW is limited, but an online search revealed a plethora of configurations available from UK and US stockists via Fishpond .com.au. Has anyone bought via them? Comments?

Some artwork has arrived here too in readiness for the project wrap up....(LMFAO!)

Frustratingly, I think it's wise to not unwrap the African painting (had been on layby for eons..) nor the recently framed Kara Rosenlund print as they're better protected from the persistent dust as they are. 'Gilbert' has been slotted into a cost-effective Country Road ready-made frame in preparation for J's bedroom.

Calm Before Muhammad Ali Miami 1961

My recent infatuation with Trevor Mein's photographic artwork and our fiscal predicament led me to purchasing 'Calm Before' on a whim (well, not really... I posted about it HERE) and, oops!

It's OK, and will fill a spot, but ultimately, I already know it's no substitute. Which leads me to the Powder room art quandary I posted about recently.

What do you think of the Muhammad Ali underwater, boxing training artwork???

Ticks a few boxes....?

We have found a new tiler (Alleluia!) and I am SO excited about him starting in a few weeks. All further progress seems to hinge on him doing his bit - first!

Renderers are engaged to start in a week and the scaffolding has been erected in preparation, so we are all systems go with finishing the exterior.

And on a family finale...both our nest leavers are on the move again, so we'll be shuffling and storing lots of additional bits 'n pieces. Gotta laugh....

Never a dull moment!

x KL

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You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

Compromise

2015-06-20T18:41:00.000+10:00

Compromise has been a dirty word as far as this build has been concerned. I regarded it with the same contempt and revulsion as the word Budget.

Ewwwwh...

The truth is...I have ignored the so called 'elephant' in the ~~house~~ room.

What we've still got to do, to complete this project, and what money we have to do it with, do not equate. We were happy to 'do' bits as finances allowed but to be honest, David and I are a bit over it.

If I want to get this project over-the-line and, want to enjoy living here with all the planned amenities, then I've got to get serious about my attitude to both words; Compromise and Budget.

Now, never fear, I'm not talking about any near-enough is good-enough caper. No. Definitely not.

But I am considering....

Do I need to spend $18K on carpet? Could I live with the a lower density version for $10K?

Can I buy a Bunnings stick-on mirror for behind the door to the WIR instead of having the door back professionally mirrored? (It would look soooooo good....)

Should I fit the three built-in desks to the kid's bedrooms with laminate tops, not stone as planned?

Can I live with blinds only in the living areas? Do I need window coverings here at all?

Would painted block retaining walls look acceptable compared to stone clad versions?

Will a coloured concrete driveway be aesthetically acceptable v's pavers?

Can a painted display niche look as good as a mirrored one?

Can I use freestanding joinery pieces instead of custom joinery for the playroom, office and lounge?

Can I compromise on my vision and furnish more economically with similar-look items?

Do we need the security system and intercom that are wired for, but not installed?

Unless of course, I find one of these....

x KL

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Another room finished!!!!!

2015-06-10T16:25:00.000+10:00

Woop! Woop!

J's Bathroom / Powder room is officially complete...

(OK....there may be some electrical work and cleaning to still attend to, LOL) but I had to share!

I did a Detailing Post on this wee room back HERE, which shows the plans and inspiration behind the room. It has been fitted out very inexpensively, which was also explained previously.

So, (insert Drum roll....) here are the pics...

Image taken from the doorway... excess grout muck still to be cleaned from floor. Niche-fitted blind to be installed. Ordered in white but should have chosen black. Might re-order I think. ?

Some nocturnal 'Ninja' tree trimming will restore a beautiful beach vista from the window. He He. Under floor heating requires hook up.

Dummy Run for proposed kitchen cabinetry colour and finish, in this custom vanity; Matte 2-pac. Quite happy with results and fingerprinting seems OK. Handles on vanity bought (one sitting in possy) but not attached.

There was supposed to be a shampoo shelf niche but Davey 'forgot'. Bugger.

This little shelf will have to do! Love the frame less shower screen!

Functioning as J's bathroom AND as a guest Powder room, I need to find some art / accessories that are youthful, masculine and suitable for both users. Yikes!

Please excuse Moi in the shower, trying to look invisible, whilst snapping this pic!

Not sure why the drawer under the vanity can't be closed atm. ?

Choosing the colour of the vanity joinery and top was excruciating. The marble was 'browner' than I thought once laid, and in reality, is much darker than these images. Trying to 'match' the stone with another piece of stone for the vanity top was impossible (God knows, I tried!!!!)

And so we're onto finishing the next room: our main bedroom ensuite!

Here's a sneak peek...

Rogerseller Cloud Cover Shower. *sigh*

x KL

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detailing: laundry / kitchenette

2015-06-05T18:31:00.000+10:00

I haven't done a house building, detail post for a long time. I've found these posts helpful to keep track of our decisions and ongoing direction. The middle level of our house, where we are living, is completed from a structural view but not finished in terms of flooring, joinery or styling. We're sort of 'glamping' till we move upstairs and then, the vacated areas can be completed.

I'm currently seeking quotations for the laundry / kitchenette so I thought a post on this multi-task space would be pertinent. Below are our plans for this space:

LEFT: Council Plans RIGHT: Modified design

When I first designed this area, I deliberately excluded pool toilet facilities. I thought the close proximity of the main bathroom would suffice. When construction started however, I reviewed this idea. Wet feet inside, on slippery polished marble floors, is not a good idea.

I altered the layout of the main bathroom and shuffled the space in the proposed laundry to accommodate an externally accessed W.C. This ~~wee~~ little room is complete, as pictured below:

New plan

Another upside of the new layout was that the laundry bench situated opposite the bi-fold windows became centred in relation to it. It now looks balanced when viewed from both inside and out. The linen cupboard was relocated under the stairs (pics HERE) which meant a serendipitous increase in size. Triple win! Yippee!

I asked David to build in alcoves for a fridge (F) and microwave oven (M/W) to allow the laundry to function as a bar / kitchenette when entertaining poolside.

I even managed to accommodate an externally accessed bar fridge for this purpose! The bench top will run through the bi-fold windows to create an external ledge / servery / bar. Mojito anyone?

Timber cladding to bar back was completed in January.

Council would not allow us to have two kitchens in the house but a second microwave, sink and fridge are permissible. To this end I have purchased a Smeg convection / microwave / grill combi oven. Combined with our BBQ, cooking on this level should be easy and we can avoid traipsing up and down stairs.

Smeg Combi oven: SA45MCX2, Crema Perla Marble flooring and Oak veneer joinery.

The marble previously used in the downstairs bathrooms, (Crema Perla) will also be used on the laundry floor but in a larger 600 x 600 mm format. The floor will be heated for toasty toes in winter too.

There are two 'sides' to the laundry creating a galley effect. The window side will house the sink and dishwasher and I'm planning the joinery to be finished in 2 pac: Dulux Natural White (satin) to tie in with the bathroom joinery already in situ.

That light fitting has got-to-go! What was I thinking!!! ?

Above and below are images of our temporary laundry / cooking set up! Eeeek!

(The cabinetry was ripped out of a house David was demolishing).

I'm contemplating finishing the lower cupboards on the laundry side with an Oak veneer to add some continuity with the oak flooring chosen for upstairs. Inspiration pic below:

There will be doors concealing the washer and dryer so when not in use, the hard working hub of the laundry will be invisible! Like this but under bench only....

In between the washer and dryer I'm planning for an integrated laundry basket/s like this:

Not sure if I can fit one or two?

The bench tops on both sides are most likely to be made from white ceasarstone.
I've already bought the sink and tap...the sink I boasted about HERE and the tap was also an ex-display bargain!

The one thing I'm still very undecided on, is the wall treatment above the laundry side of the room.
I have entertained all the following ideas at some stage or other...

BAR SHELVING....

BLACKBOARD?

SWISHIER BAR SHELVING. LOL!

MIRROR BACKING

TILE & SIMPLE SHELF?

TRADITIONAL OVERHEADS

ZIP...FOR ART OR FEATURE MIRROR....

??????

Another conundrum is this:

In EVERY laundry I've designed for ourselves, I've included a clothes drying rail. I always highly recommend these to clients too. But, the multi task nature of our room is not conductive, aesthetically with this very practical inclusion! Damn!!!

Pinterest to the rescue!!!!

I'm planning a retractable line from inside the broom cupboard to the wall opposite!

Nifty, eh?

One does have to be practical after all!

x KL

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You are very welcome and encouraged to comment, I love receiving feedback!

you'll call me crazy ...

2015-06-04T10:45:00.001+10:00

Whilst we are on a roll to complete our contemporary home, David and I spotted this wet and forlorn chair on a council collection pile down the road from us. The property was recently sold and suffered some damage in the recent storms.

I don't know why someone would discard such a beautiful chair. ?

The frame is sturdy and the seat comfortable. Apart from the wet and worn upholstery, it's in good condition. Perfect for a new lease of life...

What a fun little project to do between all the work required in finishing the ENTIRE house.

Ba ha ha!!!!

All suggestions, how-to's, comments and links warmly welcomed!

x KL

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Photography as A R T

2015-06-03T19:26:00.002+10:00

Have you noticed the popularity of photographic art at the moment?

It seems to be a trend popping up in all the Interior mags, as well as on Pinterest, telly reno shows and in professional styling.

This style of art was peppered throughout the apartments of the last series of The Block and

I quite literally swooned over this piece by Trevor Mein, from Otomys:

Archival Photographic Print titled FridayFiveThirtyEight2008 by Trevor Mein

Unfortunately, I do not have a lazy $4 200 to buy it... *sob*

The print below, Calm Before from The Canvas Workshop, is more pocket friendly at one-tenth of the price though, and makes a similar impact. (I know... but could it suffice whilst saving? LOL)

The latest edition of online magazine, Adore Home showcases some photography from X 20x200 in a serene bedroom by Bonnie Hindmarsh (Three Birds Renovations)

Artwork: Waiting by Ian Baguskas

I think I'm drawn to the blue tones of water, ocean scenes in particular, due to our beach side location.

The Sea by Karla Rosenlund went straight to the top of my wish-list after I first came across this image in Domaine Home.

Limited Edition: The Sea Photographic Print

Of course, photography as art is not limited to this one subject!!! The imagination of the photographer is its only limitation.. Here are some more of my personal favourites:

The Real Estate Stylist: Pink Desert as seen on Reno Rumble

source unknown

Mursi From Mago / Ethiopia by Mario Gerth, 2009

Artwork by Leila Jeffreys

untitled 29/77 by Bill Henson

Eclectic as usual!

What do you think of photography as art in the home?

Are you a fan?

x KL

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Year of The House: update

2015-05-31T20:36:00.001+10:00

Here are our APRIL / MAY #YOTH achievements...

APRIL

David tiled two walls in J's bathroom / powder room with white tiles over Easter.
(and here I was thinking he'd finish the whole room! Ba Ha Ha!)
J's bathroom vanity installed.
Playroom blind for the external door opening to the ~~winter sun spot~~, ~~latte deck~~, milkshake deck installed then reinstalled, the right way round :-/

MAY
Joiner visited and kitchen and laundry designs discussed to be quoted.
Two new carpet quotes received after my previous choices discontinued!!! (WTF!)

Is a shade difference worth an additional $3K?...

Main bedroom walk-in-robe fit out quoted and accepted.
Quotations sought for completing rendering to external areas.
J's bathroom shower screen and mirror quoted and ordered.
Sought & received Curtain costings (Eeeek!) for entire house and chose fabrics for same.
Trying to find a new tiler for here and our company....Grrr (*major headache*)
Ordered custom made grates for top external deck areas.


Custom made, Tile Insert external grates ordered for our deck areas! Image from My Shower Grate Shop

Bathroom accessories; towel rail, toilet paper holder and shower shelf installed to J's bathroom.
Stone top installed to J's bathroom vanity.

Action shots...

Whew! On a roll.....

Renovating? Building? Got some House Projects to complete?

Join in! #YOTH15

(also on instagram of course!)

Missed the progress? Catch up here:

February / March
January / February

x KL

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Bits & Bobs of my Blogging Hiatus!

2015-05-27T21:39:00.001+10:00

It's been super busy around here lately...not so much with house progress unfortunately, but with life!

Poppy Project, Rotary Park GOSFORD

After the horrendous fortnight of severe storm weather late last month, ANZAC day memorials were fortunately, appropriately spectacular.

Dawn Service with Gallipoli landing re-enactment at TERRIGAL

We went to Sydney in the afternoon to spend the remainder of the ANZAC weekend with Japanese friends who were visiting Sydney for the final few days of their whirlwind trip to Oz.

The last time I saw Nozomi was when she was billeted with us as an exchange student, 12 years ago!

My girls have visited her in Japan several times, so it was nice to be able to reciprocate her always generous hospitality. We met her mother too, who was her traveling companion. She kindly hosted my eldest daughter when she was an exchange student in Japan. Shizuko spoke no English, but we immediately had a strong connection, and had a really fun weekend!

We had a lovely Mother's Day here, with our nest leavers visiting and spoiling me with a beautiful lunch. We took the opportunity to celebrate my daughter's boyfriends birthdays too, a 21st and 25th!
Love the photo below of the boys and Davo having a wee 'nanna nap' after the effort of making lunch!

It was disappointing to miss seeing my own mother as she (along with my father!) was isolated in hospital with pneumonia. They have both been so very sick, but are on the mend now, thank God!

Me dispensing lots of TLC to poor Mum!

My son has become a teenager too (Eeeek!) so the birthday celebrations continued!
13! Where has that time gone!!!!?

Three 13th Birthday Celebrations...two to go!!!

Would never had foreseen that my baby (seen below playing PS1 with his sister) would be building his own customised PC for his thirteenth birthday!

And David's birthday is this Saturday. May's a very busy birthday month!

I've been back to hospital for some minor surgery which seems to have been unsuccessful.

Hopefully I wont now need major surgery, but that's looking like a distinct possibility. Bugger.
Can still laugh at getting older though:

Progress on the house front is slow, as usual. One day a week is just not enough time for David to get any consistent work done, so we're considering employing some subcontractors to help. We have previously viewed this as a waste of our capitol (paying someone else to do what David can do for free) but we're both impatient to get the house finished. To this end we are obtaining quotes for the remaining work....

Carpet options. Decisions, decisions!

Hopefully, the second half of the year will be full of progress (YOTH15!) and frequent 'pretty pics' on the blog front as we complete areas.

Fingers and toes!!!!!

x KL

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asystole

2015-05-01T18:40:00.002+10:00

a·sys·to·le

(ā-sistō-lē)

Absence of contractions of the heart.
Synonym(s): cardiac standstill.

[G. a- priv, + systolē, a contracting]

The Strand by Whiting Architects (2015 Australian Interior Design Awards)

Many about the ol' blogosphere use the phrase "Be still my beating heart" to describe their reaction to a particularly gorgeous image.

Nah. Not me.

My ticker skips a beat.

How perfect is this lounge room? !!!!!

H E A R T S T O P P I N G....(in my humble opinion)

*Sigh*

x KL

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