House Facts and Tips showcases the very best articles, advice and tips for House Care, Maintenance, Design, Renovation and Easy Living written by our team of qualified experts. These articles will help you care for and add value and comfort to your house so that it becomes a home and easy living space.
See the List of Articles to find topics that interest you.
Use the search tool (above)) to quickly find a topic by keyword.
Below is a summary of some tips to get started
See the List of Articles to find topics that interest you.
Use the search tool (above)) to quickly find a topic by keyword.
Generally this will start with your own ideas discussed with family and friends. Try to write down and sketch your ideas so you can pass them onto a planner. Sites such as PINTEREST are great sources for ideas. Next you will want to move to the concept design phase with a professional designer. This will transform your ideas into a practical proposal. Finally you will work with the designer to draft and complete your plan so it can be submitted for approval.
Approvals from your local council or other authority is generally required for any renovation that involves changes to the house’s envelope or structure or to the footprint on your block or space. Renovations to a flat or apartment may require approval by the body corporate. Your local authority will provide you with a checklist of documentation that is required including architectural plans and shadow diagrams, engineering certification and local regulations.
After the building plan gets final approved through council (which may take several revisions), your designer will then prepare detailed drawings for the construction phase, with a descriptions of the design specifications and finishes for the tender and construction process. This documentation will depend on the size and extent of the renovation proposed. Once a builder has been engaged for the work, a detailed contract needs to be drawn up and agreed upon. You may also require a construction certificate (or similar).
The first step in many renovations is demolition. This may require electricity, gas, water and other services to be temporarily disconnected. Then follows the detailed contruction phase including the installation of fixtures, appliances paintwork and floor coverings.
Essentially the completion to the lock-up phase means the structure is watertight and that the parts of the property being renovated can be secured. This usually happens when the external cladding, windows, roof and doors are all in.
This is when works have been completed and the builder will conduct a full walk-through of the project with both the designer and the client. This will help finalize any issues or concerns that may arise. A final inspection may be conducted by a certifier, who will issue an Occupation Certificate when satisfied that the work has been completed satisfactorily to the satisfaction of the client and that all aspects of the contract have been met.
Small areas don't necessarily have to feel tiny and cramped. Use furniture, mirrors and light colors to create the illusion of 3D space.
Think about the furniture strategically so that things done look height challenged.
Start with the color scheme as may design elements flow from color and light.
This creates a sense of warmth and luxury
This expands the depth of field and creates an illusion of extra space.
Small dark color areas do not work and so go big and bold!
Texture and light colors on the ceiling enhance depth.
Mirrors work magically to add depth to small spaces.
Don't hide your treasures.
Create strong verticals and avoid horizontal lines or patterns and choose warm rich and vibrant colors that add wealth and value to the setting. recommends designer Todd Romano. "I adore large mirrors because they add scale to a room. I also kept the furniture low-slung, so the rooms seem taller."
11. AMPLIFY NEUTRALS WITH TEXTURE
Texture can greatly enhance and add complexity to a simple neutral surface.
Regular maintenance avoids the problem in the first place, and can stop little problems getting big and expensive.
1. Inspect and clean the fireplace and chimney annually.
2. Inspect door and window seals and caulking bi-annulally.
3. Once a year, clean under the refrigerator, stove and other kitchen appliances.
4. Replace filters quarterly, or when recommended by the manufacturers.
5. Clean leaves and debris from air conditioners, and dust from air exhaust.
6. Test your garage door opener monthly to ensure that it is working properly, including the light sensor to stop its passage when obstructed.
7. Check windows and locks for breakages and scurity.
8. Vacuum the clothes dryer's exhaust duct and dust filter at least once a year.
9. Replace the batteries in smoke detectors yearly. Check frequently to ensure they are working.
10. Check the house for leaks.