There’s no place like it, and with most of us spending more time there in the past few years, home has taken on even more significance. Help show your home the love it deserves, and invest in what is likely your most valuable asset with help and advice from the local advertisers in this special Home Improvement feature.
“Home is a shelter from storms – all sorts of storms.” – William J Bennett
In-Depth Landscape Construction: Bring your backyard dreams to life
Backed by more than 50 years of landscaping experience between them, In-Depth Landscape Construction founder Justin and his expert team are motivated by making their clients’ backyard dreams come true.
Tell us about you and your business.
I have been working in the landscape construction industry for 20 years, and founded In-Depth Landscape Construction three years ago. I got started when I was younger as I always had a passion turning my clients’ backyard dreams into a reality.
Here at In-Depth Landscape, we have two diverse landscape teams with over 50 years’ experience collectively, and two dedicated fencing teams, two lovely administration staff, one project manager, and one fencing and pergola specialist manager.
We improve clients’ homes by providing complete yard transformations, and we manage all aspects of the project from design through to handover, using the best quality tradespeople, and ensuring no detail is overlooked.
Clients can expect a family-friendly team, well-presented staff, attention to detail, open and honest communication throughout the project, and a complete one-stop-shop experience.
Our company’s core values are trust, respect, honesty, and integrity. We aim to maintain an open and honest dialogue with our clients throughout the entire project.
What’s the best part of your job? And the most challenging?
My favourite part is seeing clients’ joy when their personal oasis is completed and their expectations are exceeded, especially when they can enjoy it with their family, including grown-up children.
The most challenging aspect is managing extreme weather conditions, particularly during Canberra’s wet winters. We overcome these challenges through careful planning and adapting our construction methods to suit the conditions.
How has landscaping evolved?
The latest trend in our industry is a growing demand for sustainable, eco-friendly landscape projects designed and constructed for growing families to enjoy.
What have been your highlights to date?
I’m most proud of the moments when clients highly recommend us to their friends and family.
What do you enjoy about landscaping in Canberra?
Working in Canberra, I love the town and enjoy experiencing all the various seasonal changes.
What’s the best way to contact In-Depth Landscape Construction?
Clients can get in touch with us directly on 6293 2257, online at indepthlandscaping.com.au or email [email protected]
In-Depth Landscape Construction Fencing division: Setting boundaries in style
Fences aren’t just barriers; they’re stories woven into the very fabric of our landscapes. Matt, the manager of the fencing division at In-Depth, says “Fencing is more than a business – it’s a craft that we have refined over 20 years”.
What type of fencing options does In-Depth provide?
Championing the essence of quality and functionality, we offer several fencing options that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences. Firstly,Lysaght Colorbond Fencing, which is a perfect blend of robust security and refined design. We always wanted to provide an option that’s both resilient and elegant. The Lysaght Colorbond line offers just that, seamlessly blending with Canberra’s unique architectural beauty.
Next is Aluminium Screeningthat has a sleek and chic finish, reflecting the evolving tastes of Canberra homeowners. Modern doesn’t mean fragile. We’ve seen a rise in homeowners looking for contemporary fencing solutions that are both minimalist in design and enduring in nature.
Thirdly, it’s the Timber Screening thatis more than just a fencing solution; it’s a nod to the timeless charm of nature. Integrating harmoniously with green spaces and patios, it brings warmth and organic beauty to the forefront. There’s something incredibly grounding about timber, it’s not just about setting up a fence; it’s about crafting an experience, one that resonates with nature.
What are your company’s core values?
It’s about understanding the heartbeat of Canberra homes, their owners, and the landscapes that surround them. Landscaping and Fencing is our canvas, and with each oasis we create, we paint stories of beauty, security, and belonging.
Contact us
Get in touch online at indepthlandscaping.com.au or email [email protected]
WR Engineering: Helping build Canberra for more than 50 years
A third generation proud Canberran, Wayne Read of WR Engineering has worked in the family business for most of his life, which has been helping to secure the homes and vehicles of local residents for more than 50 years.
How long have you been working in the industry?
My father started WR Engineering in 1967 and I bought my parents, Brian and Helen Read, out of the business in the early 2000s.
The business started as a manufacturing sheet metal workshop. We have worked on some significant projects around the Canberra region over the years and as Canberra has changed, so have we. Over the years, our business morphed from manufacturing to installations. In the early days of Canberra, the government tried to make the capital look big on a map by making the blocks big. Most people ended up on a big block with a small house because that’s what they could afford (affordable housing). This created lots of opportunities for metal products like garages and carports, especially with Canberra’s frosty winter mornings. As Canberra grew, land got more valuable, blocks got smaller, more families started having more cars, so building practices changed to include car accommodation and brick garages as part of the house design. As the demand for garages and carports dropped, we kept taking advantage of our great relationships with our suppliers, taking the products off our metal garages and installing them as stand-alone products like garage doors, fencing, screening and gates.
One of WR Engineering’s strengths over the years, is that we had the ability to change and meet market and customer requirements.
Growing up, my brothers, cousins and I would come into work with Dad and the uncles and help wherever required. WR Engineering was an after-school holiday (without the relaxation) program for us kids, learning about life and work.
How did I get started?
When I finished school I wanted to get away from WR Engineering and make my own way so I did an electrical apprenticeship with the CSIRO at Black Mountain. After that, I started an electrical business but while playing football, I broke my leg. Dad asked while I was on crutches if I could help him out. I ended up coming in and just working in the office doing a bit of admin stuff while my leg was recovering and just sort of fell in love with it again. I really enjoy helping people and interacting with customers and I stayed, as my dad started to formulate a succession plan.
What do you love about your job?
We really enjoy helping our customers. Being third generation Canberran, there is only a small degree of separation from us and our customers. It’s easy to have conversations, there’s normally a connection found there somewhere.
What do you consider to be the most challenging aspect of your work?
Probably the changing fabric of Canberra and of our products and of the market, and trying to keep up to date with all the innovations, with technology and with customer and employee expectations. We do this well but it is a challenge keeping up with it. We try to have an open mind to changes as a business and we’re always looking for innovative and better ways of doing things.
What are the latest trends shaping your industry?
The latest trends are working from home, being more flexible with time, and different ways to increase productivity. There’s lots of innovations going on in the garage door sector with smart phones, apps, smart security features, cameras, that type of technology. There’s lot of data and reporting now with the garage door openers; we plug a diagnostic tool in them … which will indicate if your door is running rough, the springs are losing tension, or if the door’s catching or binding in the guides or tracks. There’s a lot going on.
What can clients expect when they engage with your business and services?
They can expect a great experience. It’s something we really work hard on and really enjoy delivering on. We have a lot of five-star reviews from our clients who honestly appreciate what we do and we really appreciate their feedback and support.
Our clients can expect great products. We only use the best products available. We try to source Australian made wherever possible. We set the expectation on times, delivery, price, and communicate clearly with our customers to ensure everyone’s on the same page, knows what’s going on, and that we deliver good outcomes.
What is your biggest highlight?
Helping people. We have staff members who have worked in our business over 20 and 30 years and that’s a huge highlight – being a part of their lives and them being a massive part of ours. Sharing the ups and downs, getting through the tough times together and enjoying the good times.
Our loyal repeat customers. We’ve got customers who come in and say, ‘oh, your dad built a garage for me back in 1972’.
Just being part of a community and being part of people’s lives, that would be our biggest highlight.
What are you most proud of?
Very proud of our business, my family, and being part of such a great, long-standing Canberra company that delivers really good outcomes for the community, our staff and customers.
What are your company’s core values?
At all times, we aim to be honest, transparent, reliable, to have integrity, to listen and to deliver outcomes that suit our customers. We try to do that in a timely manner, in a responsible, respectful manner. We’re in touch with the community and the community’s values.
How do you improve clients’ homes?
We basically help secure the boundary of their home, protecting their valuables by securing the perimeter with our metal fencing, screening and gate products. We improve the ease in which they can access their homes through our garage door and gate opener products, and the safety, security products associated with them.
What type of projects do you specialise in?
Our typical customer is the homeowner, the person who is after an enjoyable experience, good value, great quality and service. We get it done for our clients to their expectation and satisfaction.
Working in Canberra, what do you love about it?
We love Canberra. I’m a third generation Canberran. My family is possibly a big bunch of scaredy cats, too scared to move too far, or we may have found a great thing and we’re sticking to it. We really enjoy growing up, living, working and playing in the Canberra region. We enjoy being around good people, the climate, the four distinct seasons that we have. We enjoy working outdoors, getting to go to people’s homes, seeing how they live, seeing some of the cool things they have in their backyards and garages. Meeting people, helping them and delivering for them on their project. We enjoy getting the job done right. We love all the things Canberrans love – the surrounding areas, the Bush, the snow, the surf, we’ve got it all. I think we’re very blessed.
How can people get in touch?
It’s sign of the times. There are so many ways of getting in touch. Probably the best way is to send us an email with some pictures and some details of what you’re thinking of and what you’re after. We can then give you a ring and run through it all or if it’s easier just give us a call. We can make a time to send one of our representatives out to give you a quote and some advice.
Make an appointment and come and see us at our showroom in Fyshwick. Call 6280 5988 or email via the ‘Contact Us’ tab on the website: wrengineering.com.au
Cranky & Sons: Masters of Paint and Plaster
Cranky & Sons is a homegrown Canberra business with over 50 years of experience shared between Sean and his team. Sean is here to help Canberra and surrounds with all their painting and plastering needs.
How long have you been working in the industry? How did you get started?
I have been in the trade for over 17 years and first got started in plastering through a school-based program. I started painting on and off with my dad. From there, I did an apprenticeship in plastering and have been gaining more and more certs ever since, including a Cert 4 in Building and Construction
What do you love about your job?
My favourite part of the job is being able to do lots of different types of jobs, in lots of different locations in and around Canberra.
What do you consider to be the most challenging aspect of your work? How do you overcome these challenges?
When things start going wrong, it often ends up being one problem after another. In those situations, I will take a deep breath and take it one problem at a time.
What are the latest trends shaping your industry?
In painting, we are getting a lot of fresh, clean looks, taking a whole area back to white or light colours. In plastering, we are similarly seeing the modern, clean look of square set plaster.
What can clients expect when they engage with you for your services?
We are a friendly, small, family business, so you don’t have too many people to deal with.
We try to be up front in what you can and can’t expect out of a job, and to provide alternative suggestions when faced with the latter. If you have a problem, we’re happy to help try and fix it.
What is your biggest highlight so far? What are you most proud of?
The biggest highlight of my job is being able to help so many people. We have been able to give back to the community, supporting local magazines, law enforcement, and veterans. We are a major sponsor to the Canberra’s bush rugby club, The Hall Bushrangers, as well as a little champ by the name of Paige Cole, who rode for Australia in BMX.
What are your company’s core values?
We pride ourselves on keeping it clean while doing a great job. We are always happy to have a chat to see how we can help.
How do you improve clients’ homes?
We try to help improve clients’ homes with updated looks, as well as preserving heritage where wanted/needed. Our improvements range from fixing up small patches, to renos, to full house paint jobs from the inside out. We try to help in any areas we can.
Working in Canberra, what do you love about it?
It’s great to work close to home, but we are also happy to travel surrounding regions.
We love having everything we need close by and also seeing our clients out and about.
How can people get in touch?
Visit our website cranky-and-sons.com.au/ or our Facebook page facebook.com/CrankyNSons for more information. Email or call us anytime and we will get back to you as quick as we can.
Delta Air Conditioning & Heating: Canberra’s cooling legends of 50 years
For over half a century, the streets of Canberra have echoed with tales of a local hero in air conditioning – Delta Air Conditioning & Heating.
A multi-award-winning family business, their legacy goes beyond just cooling homes. It’s about warm hearts, strong bonds, and cold, refreshing indoor breezes.
“Every Canberran knows the challenge of finding the perfect air conditioning unit, especially with the city’s unique climate demands,” says Director and Owner Paul Oxford.
“In this quest, many fall into the pitfalls of undersized or oversized units sold by some of our competitors. The consequences? An inflated energy bill, inadequate heating during the bitter Canberra winters, or inefficient cooling during the sweltering summers.” In essence, a home that feels less like a haven and more like a battle against the elements.
Delta Air Conditioning & Heating puts these concerns to rest. Their unmatched quality lies in sizing the unit just right – the first time, every time.
With interstate competition on the rise, the oldest air conditioning company in Canberra has maintained course thus far by offering what their contenders cannot: Decades of specialising in Canberra’s fickle temperatures, all year round.
Delta’s local experience dates back over 50 years. The business has been in Paul’s family since 1977 when his father David bought into the company, just five years after the store opened. Since then, the family business has thrived, helping a large number of Canberra families with their heating and air conditioning needs.
Stuart, one of their seasoned salespersons, embodies the spirit of Delta. With seven years at the business under his belt, Stuart isn’t just experienced; he’s a trusted advisor to long-standing customers.
“We understand that every home is unique, and so are the people living in it,” says Stuart. “Taking into account the lifestyle, preferences, and the very soul of a house, we ensure families find the right solution, every single time.”
At its core, Delta is more than just a business. It’s a family. A sentiment that doesn’t just extend to their kin but to every single staff member. This belief in nurturing, supporting, training, and fostering growth is what sets them apart.
They believe in taking care of their own, ensuring every member feels valued and empowered.
Delta is not just looking at the present but is deeply committed to Canberra’s future. As part of the ACT Government’s sustainable housing scheme, they pave the way for greener choices in home comfort solutions.
Moreover, understanding the financial constraints many are currently facing, they have partnered with Brighte, offering Interest-Free Finance options for unit purchases (subject to approval). With Delta, comfort doesn’t come at the cost of one’s peace of mind.
“If you’re thinking air-conditioning, think Delta Air Conditioning & Heating,” says Paul. “With us, you’re not just buying an air conditioning unit; you’re becoming part of a cherished family legacy of putting customers first and doing it right the first time, every time.”
To find our more, call 6280 4211 or visit www.deltaairconditioning.com.au
Bringing Australia Home: Scott Leggo Gallery
Transform your space with unique artworks that capture the beauty of Australia. Explore the Scott Leggo Gallery in Kingston for premium Australian-made pieces.
How long have you been working in the industry? How did you get started?
The business has been operating for over fifteen years and we’ve been supplying my Australian made artworks throughout that time. My background is somewhat varied. I’ve been fortunate to have previously worked in Australia and overseas as a management consultant with some of the world’s top management consulting firms. Prior to that I was a diplomat and was previously an Officer in the Air Force for ten years. Now I get to travel and help share Australia with others through my photography. It’s terrific to get the feedback from clients when we’re able to transform their homes and workplaces with new artwork.
What do you love about your job?
Getting to travel Australia and then share the beauty of this great country with other people. For me, spending time outdoors is one of the key reasons I got into this business. I particularly love the snow and alpine areas of Australia, but over the last 12 months, I have been spending time air borne capturing Australia from a helicopter or drone. I love the link back to my Air Force days and thoroughly enjoy the abstract images that come from being in the air. More of my aerials are showcased in the new gallery.
What do you consider to be the most challenging aspect of your work? How do you overcome these challenges?
Camping in the snow, leaning out of a helicopter, or snow shoeing into a blizzard can all be challenging as I seek to capture the best and unique photography. Likewise, it can be a lot of fun too.
What are the latest trends shaping your industry?
We’re finding that people are increasingly looking for more abstract images. In line with this trend, we are increasing the number of abstract artworks in the collection, with more and more aerial abstracts. Often taken from a helicopter over stunning scenery, these images provide a different perspective on the landscape and we’re finding people are really liking the unique angles. This is definitely something we will be doing more of going forward. Of course, the more traditional landscape photos will always be in the mix.
What can clients expect when they engage with you for your services?
A team of passionate, knowledgeable, and helpful staff. We know that sometimes it can be daunting choosing the right artwork, so they will find that any member of the team here can help them choose the right piece for them. All our artworks are Australian made and premium quality.
What are your company’s core values?
Our values are respect, integrity, excellence, and teamwork. These values guide us each day, not just internally, but in how we engage with our customers, our community, our suppliers, and our environment.
How do you improve clients’ homes?
We help people bring the Australian outdoors into their home. With a collection of artworks that feature photos from across the great southern land, there’s something in our collection that will suit any space.
What type of projects do you specialise in?
Customers can purchase framed prints, acrylic wall mounts or for smaller spaces, our acrylic desk blocks which are popular choice for desks, bookshelves, bedside tables – any horizontal surface really.
How can people get in touch?
They can visit the Scott Leggo Gallery at 33 Jardine St Kingston, seven days a week. We’re open from 10am daily and our friendly team of staff are there to help people with their artwork selections whether it’s for their home, work, or a gift for someone else. For those that can’t make it in store, our full collection can be viewed at scottleggo.com with online ordering available and free Australia-wide delivery on all purchases.
Seal the deal on comfort with Solace Creations
Solace Creations Double Glazing is a local family-owned business that has been servicing Canberra and surrounds since 2006. Karen’s experienced team is on a mission to assist ACT homeowners to have comfortable and energy-efficient homes all year round.
How long have you been working in the industry? How did you get started?
I have been working in the construction industry for over 17 years now. I was a public servant for 22 years and married a builder. With two small children, we decided that I would help him run his business. Solace Creations developed organically from there after I recognised a need for good quality insulated windows and doors in Canberra.
What do you love about your job?
I absolutely love seeing happy faces when we have not only made a client’s home look more beautiful, but lowered their energy bill and helped them feel comfortable in their own home.
What are the latest trends shaping your industry?
We are very excited that the ACT will adopt the National Construction Code 7 Star energy ratings, which means we are finally getting serious about having homes that are not only comfortable but also cheaper to run. This shift will mean that new homes will need to insulate their windows and doors along with their walls, ceiling, and floors.
What can clients expect when they engage with you for your services?
My front-end is a team of warm, caring women that will welcome you to our business and arrange a complimentary home visit and design consultation with you. Through each step of the process, you will receive extensive communication from your Solace person, who will see the process through with you and admire the outcome at the end together. You will benefit from over 17 years industry experience with a team that is committed to providing exceptional service and a completely tailored custom-made product for you and your home. Made from some of the highest quality uPVC material in the world. But most of all you can expect a team who care.
What has been your proudest moment so far?
We have won some significant jobs over the past couple of years with VIP clients including ACT government and embassies. Our products are showcased at the Whitlam ACT Government display centre with our windows and doors in four buildings. We also donated double glazed windows and doors to the recent Charity House Project run by the Master Builders Association ACT. The house was auctioned off and all proceeds went directly to four charities. The build also involved predominantly female trades and suppliers. It was so rewarding to be part of such a lovely project!
What are your company’s core values?
- Respect for all areas of our interaction with clients, suppliers, and other team members
- Accountability for our decisions and actions
- Integrity and honesty – If we say we will do it then we will
- Communication through every step of the way
- Inspiring clients through innovation
How do you improve clients’ homes?
We improve clients’ homes by insulating their windows and doors with double glazing. Windows and doors can take up to 30 per cent of your wall space and when single glazing is replaced with our products, our clients enjoy lower energy bills, and a quieter, more comfortable home.
Working in Canberra, what do you love about it?
Canberra is small enough to get around to all the suburbs in one day. The people are lovely, and with cold Canberra winters, they understand the value of a well-insulated home.
How can people get in touch?
A showroom visit at 1/17 Townsville Street Fyshwick is always the best place to start. Visit our website at solacecreations.com.au and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Call Solace Creations on 6260 1621.
Alpha Roofing: Sealing Leaks and Building Peaks
Got a leak, or maybe you need a new roof all together? The team at Alpha Roofing handles all roof-related jobs, no matter how big or small.
How long have you been working in the industry? How did you get started?
I have been in the industry for over ten years now. It all started with my love for working outdoors and not being confined to a desk.
What’s the favourite part of your job/What do you love about your job?
Troubleshooting. Especially when someone has already been through a few companies with no success, my favourite part of the job is finally providing the client with a solution.
What can clients expect when they engage with you for your services?
I like to be upfront and give honest advice which sometimes means telling clients there is nothing wrong with their roof and nothing needed to be done. Having said that, no job is too big or too small. Communication is the key.
What is your biggest highlight so far? What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the work me and my team does – we have a less than 1 per cent callback rate, which in this industry is very rare.
What are your company’s core values?
We are honest, reliable, and always on time. Once we start a project, we always finish it on time. We don’t hop from job to job like most trades, dragging on jobs for weeks or even months.
What type of projects do you specialise in?
Anything roofs related. New roofs, re-roofs, fascia/gutter installs, tiled roof maintenance, including ridge capping, flashings, and tile changes.
Working in Canberra, what do you love about it?
The people. Always friendly and very easy to deal with.
How can people get in touch?
They can go to our website alpharoofingact.com.au and fill out a quote request form or just give us a call directly on 0458 807 882.
The ShowRoom Canberra: Home and lifestyle inspiration
Find all the inspiration and professional information your heart desires at the capital region’s biggest home and lifestyle event, The ShowRoom Canberra, returning to Exhibition Park in March 2024.
What is The ShowRoom Canberra?
The ShowRoom Canberra is a two-day home and lifestyle event which brings together the Canberra region’s most creative, innovative and informative industry professionals all under one roof for one weekend only. Proudly supporting local businesses, The ShowRoom Canberra is the perfect place to showcase the best and latest of home and lifestyle innovations to the Canberra community.
When and where is it held?
Now in its fifth year, the event is being held over the weekend of 16-17 March 2024 in the Budawang Pavilion at Exhibition Park in Canberra. Entry to the event is free.
Who should attend the event?
The event is designed for people who seek to transform their homes or lifestyle, indoors or out, through all aspects of home design, build or renovate, and leisure activities. The ShowRoom Canberra is for those who are looking for home and lifestyle inspiration and professional information. Set in a relaxed environment, there is ample time to engage with exhibitors and have meaningful conversations to get relevant information or to purchase that must-have item.
For exhibitors, there is the opportunity to have quality face-to-face time with genuinely motivated attendees to showcase your product or service.
How do I find out more about the event?
For more information about next year’s event and to see who is attending, visit www.theshowroomcanberra.com.au. There are regular updates to the exhibitor list and information regarding the ShowRoom Canberra event.
Email us with your enquiry or if you are keen to exhibit, contact our team at [email protected] or phone Emma on 0410 544 069.
Take the legwork out of creating a beautiful home with Journey Home
Journey Home has been featured in Australian House & Garden magazine, Australian Women’s Weekly Home, the Capital magazine, and more. Nadine Neilson helps her clients create timeless elegant spaces that are authentic to them.
How long have you been working in the industry? How did you get started?
My mum was a designer and my dad a builder, so I grew up around making homes beautiful. After deciding not to be an accountant, I started in the furniture industry in 2003, developing and marketing furniture lines to the design trade.
What do you love about your job?
When I started my design business it was all about seeing the finished room, but more and more I enjoy helping people get what they want or helping them through hurdles, building my reputation for being the reliable part of the process.
What do you consider to be the most challenging aspect of your work?
As with all industries, the age of the internet and pressure on margins is changing the furniture industry in many ways and we have to adapt.
What are the latest trends shaping your industry?
Even the world of classic interiors has trends, and I have seen the all-white trend of the Hamptons shift towards warmer, cozier woods, as well as the return of old-world touches.
What can clients expect when they engage with you for your services?
Whether it’s a consult or a large design project, I will take the time to understand the problem in front of me and will be very clear on how it will be delivered. I don’t try to bulldoze clients into things they don’t like, so I will make sure that we are a style-fit before we start. My goal is to provide design that is actionable.
What are your company’s core values?
That there is function in beauty. Architecturally speaking, we value sympathetic extensions and character homes. We take the overwhelm and legwork out of making a house feel stylish and comfortable.
What do you love about working in Canberra?
I love Canberra’s gorgeous older homes, its small and easy and we have a laid-back personality – don’t you think?
What’s the best way to contact Journey Home Interiors?
Call 0401 466 199 or visit my website at journey-home.com.au for more info and free guides.
