Features

uPVC (unplasticised PVC) window frames are widely recognised for their energy efficiency, durability and minimal maintenance requirements. However, their adoption in Australia remains limited, especially when compared to markets such as Canada, the USA, Spain and neighbouring New Zealand. For business leaders, understanding the root causes of this discrepancy, and the potential for change, can inform strategic decision-making in the building materials sector.

The world of work has changed dramatically, and so has the way we design our homes. For many, the shift to remote work isn’t just a temporary adjustment; it’s a lasting transformation. Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, with their leafy streets and family-friendly neighbourhoods, are no exception.

Even with the layout finalised and the walls in place, bare rooms can still feel cold and unfinished. At this stage of a build or renovation, it’s not always easy to picture how everything will come together once it’s lived in.

Many Australians know the feeling when winter rolls in, the chill seeps through and suddenly your home feels like an icebox. In summer, the heat is trapped and lingers, turning homes into hotboxes. Amidst the conversation about quick fixes, Australian households pay the price with spiking energy bills and year-round discomfort. The go-to solution is often insulation, but that’s only part of the answer.

Creating a spa-like bathroom or wet room can transform your home into a personal sanctuary, adding both luxury and value. For home renovators, designing a space that balances style, function and compliance is essential. Here’s how you can achieve that relaxing, high-end atmosphere with practical tips and guidance.

If you’re looking to maximise the space in your home without the need for major extensions or renovations, one often overlooked area is your roof space. Whether it’s the ceiling cavity above your home or the space in your attic, roof spaces can be a great asset for storage or even as an additional living area — but there are several factors to consider before you start making plans.

As house prices climb and floor plans shrink, more Australians are looking for smarter ways to make the most of every square metre

Once a quirky buzzword, ‘barkitecture’ is now a serious consideration in Australian home design. It refers to the integration of pet-friendly features into the architectural and interior planning of a home, from bespoke dog nooks and cat highways to durable finishes and dedicated bathing stations.

As a residential building designer based in Melbourne, one of the most frequently overlooked aspects of home design is lighting. Whether it’s the natural light that fills a room in the morning or the carefully selected artificial lighting that sets the tone in the evening, lighting has the power to transform the way a space feels, functions and performs.

A change of season often brings about a shift in mood, and with this comes a need to refresh our interiors. With a few thoughtful design choices, you can completely refresh the mood of a home, creating a cosy and warm environment in the winter months, then switching to a lighter, breezier aesthetic during summer.