The latest in news, trends and happenings for the home.
Celeb style: Guy Sebastian
Monochromatic, matte and minimalist – we love the look of this urban contemporary kitchen belonging to Guy and Jules Sebastian. The brief for Freedom Kitchens was to create a sleek, open-plan centrepiece while ensuring a functional and efficient layout. The striking 5.6m-long island bench features a U-shaped overhang to allow seating on the long side and around both ends, seating up to 12 people. There’s also a generous 3.8m x 1.5m deep butler’s pantry positioned parallel to the kitchen and given two access points – a hidden door at one end, and a second concealed entrance behind pantry doors in the middle of the kitchen – to create a sense of flow and connectedness.
Build, buy, renovate: what you need to know
The ACT Government has launched a website designed to raise awareness and provide educational outcomes about consumer and industry requirements in the ACT construction sector. The website details what is required of builders, developers and consumers when considering to build, buy or renovate in the ACT. Additionally, the website has easy to access links detailing dispute resolution processes for consumers, as well as other important information like the disciplinary register and a register of licensed practitioners.
Find it at www.act.gov.au/buildbuyrenovate
Relationships and renovations
Renovating your home requires a good deal of planning, budgeting, researching, and can put your relationships to the test. According to a survey by renovation and design platform Houzz, more than one-third of Australian homeowners find working on a home project with their partner frustrating (39%). Agreeing on products, materials and finishes proved the most common challenge (30%), followed by deciding on style and design (27%). Top tips to reduce conflict: hire a good professional, come to an agreement on budget, and think about the bigger picture.
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