Are you off the wall to think you can go off grid?

The idea of running your home completely free of utility companies is an attractive one however is it really feasible to consider going off grid in suburban Australia. While this is nothing new for home owners in remote locations due to unavailability of services many suburban home owners are now considering this option, seeking the independence, sustainability, and cost savings that an off-grid solar system can provide. Remember going off-grid means that 100% of your electricity will be derived through the collection of solar energy without any back up resources. Are you ready to take the plunge?

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Create a sense of space on a budget without the cost of high ceilings

As the home building market has become more and more cost driven this high ceilings are a luxury which comes at a fairly hefty cost. A practical and cost effective way to still enjoy the extra sense of space which a high ceiling creates is the use of strategically located ceiling recesses particularly in main living areas. While this design feature doesn’t provide the full impact of high ceilings it can be an affordable compromise to consider if your budget is tight and is also a great place for feature lighting and provides extra height for ceiling fans.

7 Biggest mistakes when subdividing your property

Subdividing your property can be one of the most profitable decisions you make however there are also some very common pitfalls and mistakes which first time developers make. Things such as ensuring that the subdivision has regard for future building orientation and design, location and availability of existing services, regard for further development and zoning changes and under estimating full development costs are some of the most common of these mistakes. It is therefore essential to seek appropriate professional advice particularly if contemplating your first development.

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Re-inventing the classic Australian homestead

At the risk of upsetting the purists, I was recently inspired to take a fresh look at the iconic Australian homestead. The traditional rectangular box wrapped in sweeping verandah’s on all sides has been replaced with a series of functional pod style configurations. Unique in each design is the informal central core for contemporary living which feature high ceilings and highlight glazing to create areas of immense volume flooded in natural light. Private bedroom wings separated by central breezeways which can be rotated to suit front or rear views are another unique feature. Check out all the designs.

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