tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50568846337961629042024-03-20T17:54:09.480+10:30The Dream Home "Puri Villa"Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-55775202943154516792011-10-04T19:21:00.000+10:302011-10-04T19:22:00.804+10:30The Ensuite & BathroomThe items that we have selected so far have been relatively easy to choose, now it is starting to get much harder. Deciding on the combination of tiles, vanity unit and worksurface colours for the Ensuite, Bathroom and Toilets has had us scratching our heads a few times.<br />
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The walls will be fully tiled from floor to ceiling using Gloss Travertine rectified ceramic tiles (300mm x 600mm) from <a href="http://www.beaumont-tiles.com.au/" target="_blank"><u>Beaumont Tiles</u></a>...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjft46IR-0kMgEvX1y634130uNneolvrG2zYMbb5cDJd326UeitEB4MNRHlQsX1-96EKrHtWaFNRsB0l7yjpQXSRbtKgn1f_K_WnLBlSdYljpDxRSawqQZ3nKx38SdtMrGXs0bLnZdeCoki/s1600/WallTile.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="161" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjft46IR-0kMgEvX1y634130uNneolvrG2zYMbb5cDJd326UeitEB4MNRHlQsX1-96EKrHtWaFNRsB0l7yjpQXSRbtKgn1f_K_WnLBlSdYljpDxRSawqQZ3nKx38SdtMrGXs0bLnZdeCoki/s320/WallTile.JPG" /></a></div>
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and the floors will be covered in matching Satine Travertine rectified ceramic tiles (300mm x 300mm)...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ28CED0EAP-SC91MWprayfRPnULj_PQN9R9orlhododaHcdbqFzzYFxN1C2r_F1ehzBwyIiIzHYi1w7urnIr5WExJJzpzRgj-Vlf62V8dxZ-YshyRXgHNxcWSasL7BrlFDSqA7_WZr3Cr/s1600/BathroomFloor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ28CED0EAP-SC91MWprayfRPnULj_PQN9R9orlhododaHcdbqFzzYFxN1C2r_F1ehzBwyIiIzHYi1w7urnIr5WExJJzpzRgj-Vlf62V8dxZ-YshyRXgHNxcWSasL7BrlFDSqA7_WZr3Cr/s320/BathroomFloor.JPG" /></a></div>
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The vanity unit and worksurface that we have chosen are made by Laminex, and will be in the same colour range as the Kitchen.<br />
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The vanity unit will be in Nocturne Oak in a natural finish...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1dqP424kzlx2fBfOauVTEZOixXBHHAbLDtWK6yK_p6NqCSs1EL4zUCGrNuMS-9i379pDeEfQkNSQGEsfGNHK7Xm_w0V5fESzwlJIuMoUMUR57Pd9oOjq6Ll1LWp8mjZs-xVBkceJo8Ll/s1600/NocturneOak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1dqP424kzlx2fBfOauVTEZOixXBHHAbLDtWK6yK_p6NqCSs1EL4zUCGrNuMS-9i379pDeEfQkNSQGEsfGNHK7Xm_w0V5fESzwlJIuMoUMUR57Pd9oOjq6Ll1LWp8mjZs-xVBkceJo8Ll/s320/NocturneOak.jpg" /></a></div>
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and the worksurface is DiamondGloss in Limestone...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRX00Fm1GajkJbKwJbhNSI7PJZ_rcIhj4HHPnSNqnqpxHgSHNdzHnxpOzdYlzaXJDovub-ycbmm_sPsDjPurhwgN8mzmWNYCkVwnVA7dVJD9yv68SYZGmf4m0ezuof_rpfHda_RXA4sskK/s1600/Limestone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRX00Fm1GajkJbKwJbhNSI7PJZ_rcIhj4HHPnSNqnqpxHgSHNdzHnxpOzdYlzaXJDovub-ycbmm_sPsDjPurhwgN8mzmWNYCkVwnVA7dVJD9yv68SYZGmf4m0ezuof_rpfHda_RXA4sskK/s320/Limestone.jpg" /></a></div>
The worksurface looks very yellow here but is actually very similar in colour to the tiles.<br />
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Above the vanity unit in the Ensuite we will have what are called shaving cabinets, these are shallow cabinets with mirror fronted doors. Between the two will be a recessed shelf which will look something like this ensuite...
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk8pvcIrf05pC0KcuzfPLrD13yo8Xnj3MmdbsNqyiCoH6_80tao8OmP3h9P3r0hkNjlftV9K3emkskanmUsI5Nh41hdp0DR2-gG4uQ9FujwukDF-7kkO374p9UEROKzCtyEFdthQZuXJ6i/s1600/BeechwoodEnsuite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="234" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk8pvcIrf05pC0KcuzfPLrD13yo8Xnj3MmdbsNqyiCoH6_80tao8OmP3h9P3r0hkNjlftV9K3emkskanmUsI5Nh41hdp0DR2-gG4uQ9FujwukDF-7kkO374p9UEROKzCtyEFdthQZuXJ6i/s320/BeechwoodEnsuite.jpg" /></a></div>
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The Bathroom will have a normal mirror above the vanity unit.<br />
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The basins will be the <a href="http://www.reece.com.au/onsite/products/9502322" target="_blank"><u>Posh Domaine Vanity Basin</u></a>...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVDPph3U_n4fbkgdRlESJqEyQm31lfQajsNowHbcKF-0tp5jpkzEyoPckUK8DgqhkAdATR4yt-qpCfNOSARZnx5D5aGIXYzOcnTc9MPAnu0iYEN8csNIocaOKClCbZZ_yHPy6Ix6tndG3/s1600/PoshVanityBasin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVDPph3U_n4fbkgdRlESJqEyQm31lfQajsNowHbcKF-0tp5jpkzEyoPckUK8DgqhkAdATR4yt-qpCfNOSARZnx5D5aGIXYzOcnTc9MPAnu0iYEN8csNIocaOKClCbZZ_yHPy6Ix6tndG3/s320/PoshVanityBasin.jpg" /></a></div>
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with an <a href="http://www.reece.com.au/onsite/products/2261196" target="_blank"><u>Mizu Overflow Push Plug</u></a>...
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYLocmBUgQcP1UwVABNpPDwXpuT8PhC8JVRK4wXJEOgJUq07rz1GZWw3Stx2cjfVwiJuhxhJBpYlKWYxwfgcb5uT6bcgm1GoLTTARphGrC6iVlKCKffgr8cG2QJKgaQzsvjmb2JZHekLW/s1600/Overflow+Push+Plug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYLocmBUgQcP1UwVABNpPDwXpuT8PhC8JVRK4wXJEOgJUq07rz1GZWw3Stx2cjfVwiJuhxhJBpYlKWYxwfgcb5uT6bcgm1GoLTTARphGrC6iVlKCKffgr8cG2QJKgaQzsvjmb2JZHekLW/s320/Overflow+Push+Plug.jpg" /></a></div>
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and the <a href="http://www.phoenixtapware.com.au/modules/mastop_publish/?tac=CRUISE_BASIN_MIXER" target="_blank"><u>Phoenix Cruise Basin Mixer</u></a>...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQlwBWYfrkb6S6Y4T7g3j9eK18QIUZrK4o4kWOiVhvfQIeomeGbBzRFIrziNegEH5GqYeuxqivUwQcK1EDhy1DtwtkKnp0FrTnzk8AuHpZjwIHvwz1aCupR8qM4DGiPvAtSMymSZ_U8LC/s1600/cruise_basin_mixer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQlwBWYfrkb6S6Y4T7g3j9eK18QIUZrK4o4kWOiVhvfQIeomeGbBzRFIrziNegEH5GqYeuxqivUwQcK1EDhy1DtwtkKnp0FrTnzk8AuHpZjwIHvwz1aCupR8qM4DGiPvAtSMymSZ_U8LC/s320/cruise_basin_mixer.jpg" /></a></div>
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The showers will have frameless glass doors and a <a href="http://www.reece.com.au/bathrooms/products/9500517#" target="_blank"><u>Nikles XL 120 Rail Shower</u></a>...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJaavBDxD0HpdXgB-JNnzwBlrOiEP-0LqVoDK_IniKWk97ty1fAIwOC_BRH9eqlURt-4baQvJ8kOLaGyyqKHXVcDeBlEr6lgeNoblmfeOLHW7SqEStrRYEqZdOIa9TbRu4TS_MawKrdNZu/s1600/Shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJaavBDxD0HpdXgB-JNnzwBlrOiEP-0LqVoDK_IniKWk97ty1fAIwOC_BRH9eqlURt-4baQvJ8kOLaGyyqKHXVcDeBlEr6lgeNoblmfeOLHW7SqEStrRYEqZdOIa9TbRu4TS_MawKrdNZu/s320/Shower.jpg" /></a></div>
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with a <a href="http://www.phoenixtapware.com.au/modules/mastop_publish/?tac=CRUISE_SHOWER_MIXER_SQUARE_BACKPLATE" target="_blank"><u>Phoenix Cruise Shower/Bath Mixer</u></a> with a square backplate...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKivh9HO27HCNIbH8a4SJjvGJ7NFjiAWAnYQC1MO6w0hGlCmdhTPHxT4SFotbmSsbxCrDgNfzAbrYq0MhhqscNC7jJ6JU8Bhhw26vGpv7JlIOMmzyL1JMZW-9epu-_HH3o2ZqBcsg50-eh/s1600/cruise_shower_mixer_square_backplate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKivh9HO27HCNIbH8a4SJjvGJ7NFjiAWAnYQC1MO6w0hGlCmdhTPHxT4SFotbmSsbxCrDgNfzAbrYq0MhhqscNC7jJ6JU8Bhhw26vGpv7JlIOMmzyL1JMZW-9epu-_HH3o2ZqBcsg50-eh/s320/cruise_shower_mixer_square_backplate.jpg" /></a></div>
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and a <a href="http://www.reece.com.au/onsite/products/2262103" target="_blank"><u>Mizu 900mm Shower Channel Grate</u></a> if it's not too expensive...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYWjoVL1XeGS68-yYrq2SWGrptxd1TeBkdRXLwDcg5f_yJ_wkev7ZQLc5FDbzLh70RGeRkl4b5IcgFeVHF6jF3_1xBNIGLC3XEoImpwdn8fMEZ3h6t3W1x2QaJv6-LthO_NXyN4l9anSy/s1600/MizuShowerGrate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="156" width="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVYWjoVL1XeGS68-yYrq2SWGrptxd1TeBkdRXLwDcg5f_yJ_wkev7ZQLc5FDbzLh70RGeRkl4b5IcgFeVHF6jF3_1xBNIGLC3XEoImpwdn8fMEZ3h6t3W1x2QaJv6-LthO_NXyN4l9anSy/s320/MizuShowerGrate.jpg" /></a></div>
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Otherwise we will have to use the same floor waste as the general one, the <a href="http://www.reece.com.au/onsite/products/9502500" target="_blank"><u>Mizu Square Floor Waste</u></a>...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhne4F35ji27MOZCDtTXY664CUW_SCiRXfRSMIxcnitqrnqrgzNhJaMH83pB-AI6Nxp-jnHFyMd8VhQQB426lIKMACoNeD7AqjSpp53wlSB8Kw8Sz2oAudRACNI6DXazuxAl-lrmrR9qK4J/s1600/Square+Floor+Waste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhne4F35ji27MOZCDtTXY664CUW_SCiRXfRSMIxcnitqrnqrgzNhJaMH83pB-AI6Nxp-jnHFyMd8VhQQB426lIKMACoNeD7AqjSpp53wlSB8Kw8Sz2oAudRACNI6DXazuxAl-lrmrR9qK4J/s320/Square+Floor+Waste.jpg" /></a></div>
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The bath will be the <a href="http://www.decina.com.au/OurProducts/BathCollection/RectangularBaths/Carina.aspx" target="_blank"><u>Decina Carina 1675mm</u></a> with an optional white Bolle headrest...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUIahW7hg9hLTVxXjyMpmg2Ydssqk1hTRf8QwkOxWhdy07lz5NZMjfA6mlh4ijKbmuZ9uUVD4G8pAVrIhL4WXhKgie0Qy3EZ18PYa4fXcGdHT8KYnCjJbrcjBrjg_ixa01TkqB3cGwqed/s1600/DecinaCarina1675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="152" width="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUIahW7hg9hLTVxXjyMpmg2Ydssqk1hTRf8QwkOxWhdy07lz5NZMjfA6mlh4ijKbmuZ9uUVD4G8pAVrIhL4WXhKgie0Qy3EZ18PYa4fXcGdHT8KYnCjJbrcjBrjg_ixa01TkqB3cGwqed/s320/DecinaCarina1675.jpg" /></a></div>
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with a Phoenix Cruise Shower/Bath Mixer (see above) and the <a href="http://www.phoenixtapware.com.au/modules/mastop_publish/?tac=CRUISE_WALL_BASIN_AND_BATH_OUTLET_SQUARE_PLATE" target="_blank"><u>Phoenix Cruise Wall Bath Outlet</u></a> with square backplates...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAUBJN_sEF6JmNSXbjSaXDyif6pXhgfgT0OmrDZFcx-lDOZSbdvWM7heIJyT1uuR3r9gYXbWwtSR0-lu3lP3Liwyd6bx8er6Ngrh-iZWWE_O4ck25iGimqihw0nX1tQPGcNx9Ro39cTi6/s1600/cruise_wall_basin_outlet_square_backplate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="202" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAUBJN_sEF6JmNSXbjSaXDyif6pXhgfgT0OmrDZFcx-lDOZSbdvWM7heIJyT1uuR3r9gYXbWwtSR0-lu3lP3Liwyd6bx8er6Ngrh-iZWWE_O4ck25iGimqihw0nX1tQPGcNx9Ro39cTi6/s320/cruise_wall_basin_outlet_square_backplate.jpg" /></a></div>
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The close coupled toilets with a 6/3 litre dual flush system will have <a href="http://www.phoenixtapware.com.au/modules/mastop_publish/?tac=PLUS_RANGE_DOUBLE_TOILET_ROLL_HOLDER" target="_blank"><u>Phoenix Plus Double Toilet Roll Holders</u></a>...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV20rHlqKq4F6AJfWE_qUXspkIms1dyVry9L0aPksqUnchzqpqYfyFCxM7tvRV2QFqpBh9XXqm3QamhBGgp9U_jcApB_b08ckmPNSIbd2nIMV5DJQSVQ9XH1yA6sYqjja6uVwcrMwaDbWa/s1600/DoubleToiletRollHolder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="126" width="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV20rHlqKq4F6AJfWE_qUXspkIms1dyVry9L0aPksqUnchzqpqYfyFCxM7tvRV2QFqpBh9XXqm3QamhBGgp9U_jcApB_b08ckmPNSIbd2nIMV5DJQSVQ9XH1yA6sYqjja6uVwcrMwaDbWa/s320/DoubleToiletRollHolder.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-64904876124471481432011-09-27T16:09:00.000+09:302011-09-27T16:09:31.426+09:30The Soil...It's All Good<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJoAHXlFS_yeOKMqVnX8qsfdQNcGuqojhatY7WIEcjNgq_6ABVNVhK3SjmUYyZ9GIFuDQcmCDTc43JQxsrf9ohLxbZdD6YkIL-dFzmt-5GImmiEK0ItmYQemJi0QYl4xYM5ZZvUHwwWEQ/s1600/SoilTest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJoAHXlFS_yeOKMqVnX8qsfdQNcGuqojhatY7WIEcjNgq_6ABVNVhK3SjmUYyZ9GIFuDQcmCDTc43JQxsrf9ohLxbZdD6YkIL-dFzmt-5GImmiEK0ItmYQemJi0QYl4xYM5ZZvUHwwWEQ/s200/SoilTest.jpg" /></a></div>
We have just received the news that the preliminary engineering has been completed and it's looking good.<br />
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The soil report has identified a M-D class soil which is as expected and typical of the area. M means Moderately reactive clay or silt sites, which can experience moderate ground movement from moisture changes. D means that the Depth of the expected movement is greater than 3m.<br />
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The reactivity (shrinking and swelling) of the clay can have a significant impact on the footings/slabs of a buildings foundation which need to be designed to counteract the movements of the clay soils, otherwise damage (cracking) of the house may occur.<br />
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If the soil report had returned a classification of H (Highly reactive clay sites), E (Extremely reactive sites), or P (Problem sites) our foundations/slab would be far more costly. So good news!<br />
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The bore logs did pick up some shale fragments but they were pretty deep, and they didn't find any rock. If this is all that is encountered when digging then we shouldn't have any costly issues, but you still never know what you will find.<br />
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It has also been determined that the house will sit well in the specified location, and the splits will be around 860mm (5 steps) from the lower to middle level and 670mm (4 steps) from the middle to upper level.<br />
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Now that we know the levels of the house the roof can be designed. A 3D version of the house and an updated floor plan will follow shortly.<br />
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As soon as we have finalised the main details of the house it can then be submitted to the local council for approval. Way hay :)
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-37806656528985294952011-09-21T16:21:00.002+09:302011-09-21T16:21:31.808+09:30The LightingAs with most new modern homes we will have lots of downlights throughout the house, with a few pendants and possibly some wall lights in the Home Theatre.<br />
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I have a lot of lights to find but here are my selections so far, although they are liable to change at any time!<br />
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<b>Downlights</b><br />
In keeping with the general theme the downlights will be square...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWrunhgNRwFRKewAmlOwhfBLAQcyitF_w7AyM5M2ZcHkfz9JHMvzN7VRpxmoFiLiOoQ8vn4gdY9aKIgsCfyuTRuB2XxOcibxaiWxsMibE5p0Dwgwh1LG113r43KaWEQ9Hgg841RMMlcl5b/s1600/DownLight.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="206" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWrunhgNRwFRKewAmlOwhfBLAQcyitF_w7AyM5M2ZcHkfz9JHMvzN7VRpxmoFiLiOoQ8vn4gdY9aKIgsCfyuTRuB2XxOcibxaiWxsMibE5p0Dwgwh1LG113r43KaWEQ9Hgg841RMMlcl5b/s320/DownLight.gif" /></a></div>
If we can afford it we will go with LED bulbs instead of halogen, because of their cheaper running costs.<br />
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<b>Stair Lights</b><br />
Recessed mini (7cm) wall lights in stainless steel will be used to highlight the two sets of stairs, probably three per stair on the hand rail side...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpiMy4WgiknbAcBZwB0eHYzhUMXXjxYK1eSHXM-bJmkCPcPh0iDpJ1WcufOx_KMhq6w0rrKgxDOXgCuuS96Q7wXP3di91oAXt9vQXz0YeYvn7VTxSNQRN-BGMOp6lpnxFS1i6gDSxp0Y3/s1600/StairWallLight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="230" width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDpiMy4WgiknbAcBZwB0eHYzhUMXXjxYK1eSHXM-bJmkCPcPh0iDpJ1WcufOx_KMhq6w0rrKgxDOXgCuuS96Q7wXP3di91oAXt9vQXz0YeYvn7VTxSNQRN-BGMOp6lpnxFS1i6gDSxp0Y3/s320/StairWallLight.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<b>Kitchen LED Strip Lights</b><br />
A LED strip light (in white) will be used under the kitchen worksurface (dining room side) to highlight the island bench...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxiTLgmWKHIHBAMcjY8SMXQ9EoXZIGqsUGKWhtAd4AO6uMDUwEJlAUr_8niPBTzi9nzHk0ML_0EhYIMSHVWzshfqtFNjQpV3U_V22calXF1Fq3MhcOeErqiAOgeWEts63fb4E0eXvV4PXU/s1600/LEDStripLighting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="153" width="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxiTLgmWKHIHBAMcjY8SMXQ9EoXZIGqsUGKWhtAd4AO6uMDUwEJlAUr_8niPBTzi9nzHk0ML_0EhYIMSHVWzshfqtFNjQpV3U_V22calXF1Fq3MhcOeErqiAOgeWEts63fb4E0eXvV4PXU/s320/LEDStripLighting.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<b>Kitchen Pendant Lights</b><br />
I am thinking of using three of these dark brown <a href="http://www.beaconshop.com.au/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=shop.flypage&sku=10852&category_id=6&manufacturer_id=0&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=1&vmcchk=1&Itemid=1#" target="_blank"><u>Trinidad oval pendants from Beacon Lighting</u></a> over the island bench... <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2FoEHz9MSDoeOADCRgE-zgfVm474-HL9g7rTBwImpLAhJWqH3OI0nyucT96mXW7SmShVRh1UnCDQjrWxU8vjUGzEqwSin11Jzp6mQNKc1QgRIHeOmAsgKhRNkgllPws05nqO1N1JUkhW/s1600/KitchenPendantLight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2FoEHz9MSDoeOADCRgE-zgfVm474-HL9g7rTBwImpLAhJWqH3OI0nyucT96mXW7SmShVRh1UnCDQjrWxU8vjUGzEqwSin11Jzp6mQNKc1QgRIHeOmAsgKhRNkgllPws05nqO1N1JUkhW/s320/KitchenPendantLight.jpg" /></a></div>
They look good in this home...
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGxEnE71q7Lo6J4q_9bm0mMYc1F7OniT2lxqehtFR9CbShQSIWOFaj5REVK4g-qullXLrzQMpTIx_kNfwyL4xAasXyowEDpt4mvKu_Nn5vUj9KpmViqiOk55VZE-fKmk5l48sQfBPglx-/s1600/kitchenCut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="239" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGxEnE71q7Lo6J4q_9bm0mMYc1F7OniT2lxqehtFR9CbShQSIWOFaj5REVK4g-qullXLrzQMpTIx_kNfwyL4xAasXyowEDpt4mvKu_Nn5vUj9KpmViqiOk55VZE-fKmk5l48sQfBPglx-/s320/kitchenCut.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>External Downlights</b><br />
Exterior downlights will be positioned in the eaves at the front of the house, plus the Porch and Alfresco.<br />
<br />
<b>External Spot Lights</b><br />
Square up-down spot lights in stainless steel will be installed on the Porch and Alfresco columns, to the far left and right of the front of the house, and to highlight the area outside the Kitchen and Dining Room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPupatR_RodgEibz-8LGbXpjdYQOwBIAjHBhXBBi2Hx1sOB1XRth-DqzOtxBpil1_qj55SCaKOou8xgywKu-qTIGbAznZ9ZeLex8eUQ-38PM_bsGUTtNlS7VF_1phKVtK_ZRF5yssl-fHJ/s1600/UpDownSpotLight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="216" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPupatR_RodgEibz-8LGbXpjdYQOwBIAjHBhXBBi2Hx1sOB1XRth-DqzOtxBpil1_qj55SCaKOou8xgywKu-qTIGbAznZ9ZeLex8eUQ-38PM_bsGUTtNlS7VF_1phKVtK_ZRF5yssl-fHJ/s320/UpDownSpotLight.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-40802692828643007692011-09-21T11:32:00.000+09:302011-09-21T11:32:23.692+09:30Our Neigh...boursWe are looking forward to being introduced to our horsey neighbours...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVQkwv9I7cT5FwizhEkCISDgOBpNf6p8zU5k5RBofYdOmexFq81ErgM8RfHc3qalGJEV_BR4uHdj3MM8fsQzTuhV-r4GZSwuYMFn913I_qg3-_KohmtTCW4-NLijrd-T3TPGDhotcGw1-/s1600/P1070488c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="246" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVQkwv9I7cT5FwizhEkCISDgOBpNf6p8zU5k5RBofYdOmexFq81ErgM8RfHc3qalGJEV_BR4uHdj3MM8fsQzTuhV-r4GZSwuYMFn913I_qg3-_KohmtTCW4-NLijrd-T3TPGDhotcGw1-/s400/P1070488c.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhToiHMgH2DgumF4YSVw3EElffboqFo3bGbMSeny3-UhnICVjMkQ4rOgHmrWwm5WX6uZXggBJlJlUSRT9c8FyVO3bVPK9wSE6KMhD6xIbu45HqCs0XYWgJhGY0zXDI20eQCyNRl9klvWtZc/s1600/P1070489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhToiHMgH2DgumF4YSVw3EElffboqFo3bGbMSeny3-UhnICVjMkQ4rOgHmrWwm5WX6uZXggBJlJlUSRT9c8FyVO3bVPK9wSE6KMhD6xIbu45HqCs0XYWgJhGY0zXDI20eQCyNRl9klvWtZc/s400/P1070489.JPG" /></a></div><br />
The neighbours on the other side of us have a dog, who we have already got to know and is great fun. He brings you a tennis ball and waits for you to throw it, then tears after it like crazy.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-28385843765343233492011-09-19T23:00:00.000+09:302011-09-19T23:02:43.912+09:30No Natural Gas...No WorriesThe area that we are building in does not have a natural gas supply, which of course we would want to use to heat our home and water, and for cooking.<br />
<br />
The answer to this problem is to use Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) stored on site in a cylinder. This service is provided by <a href="http://www.elgas.com.au/" target="_blank"><u>ELGAS</u></a> in South Australia. As the house will be a long way from the street, refiling the cylinder from a tanker will not be practical. The solution will be to have the LPG supply placed underground in the front garden close to the road.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikNn-Zdqy_3oDpbv1xScjasbIjgheQXZlb6IfQAVNoB1eg-CVwmeqaesfGD7X3oRokmirGmhKQr5teV9ptGV64Qf3uyGsPdB58VK3WBWoPKfijmO23dmIgRDwz0ox9VKN-UUMFF51iODxN/s1600/elgasCut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikNn-Zdqy_3oDpbv1xScjasbIjgheQXZlb6IfQAVNoB1eg-CVwmeqaesfGD7X3oRokmirGmhKQr5teV9ptGV64Qf3uyGsPdB58VK3WBWoPKfijmO23dmIgRDwz0ox9VKN-UUMFF51iODxN/s320/elgasCut.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So there will be no swapping of cylinders and deliveries will be scheduled based on usage, and you only pay for the amount that's filled. I expect that the 90kg (176 litre) cylinder will be sufficient but they do come in larger sizes.<br /><br />
ELGAS have advised me that the canister costs $385.00 (I assume that this is the bit that protects the cylinder underground), and the annual rental of the cylinder is $165.00. We will also have to pay for a hole to be dug and the system installed including rather a lot of piping to the house. Oh well, I guess it's the price we have to pay to ensure that we have a gas supply.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-20766990237542528272011-09-19T16:18:00.000+09:302011-09-19T16:18:03.991+09:30The Views<a href="" target="_blank"><u>
</u></a>
We have been back to our block of land to have another look at the potential views from each room of the house. We want to be as certain as we can that we have made the right decision about the location of the house. It's not like a paint colour where you can change your mind later.<br />
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Here are the views...<br />
from the Lounge looking east<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-eIcZ-bFwVp_aN1nM2RJmUdijYvkcjam-fB1SivT1CKOAekP6mWs0NPe7pT61hlq7GHUbv7h9lnhTTJf5SBWr05IuRiFMOXG3dWgLViTuAqzrF6Xx85kDhDk5h4qJ8FxrJXHVQ_cbnUb/s1600/P1070473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-eIcZ-bFwVp_aN1nM2RJmUdijYvkcjam-fB1SivT1CKOAekP6mWs0NPe7pT61hlq7GHUbv7h9lnhTTJf5SBWr05IuRiFMOXG3dWgLViTuAqzrF6Xx85kDhDk5h4qJ8FxrJXHVQ_cbnUb/s400/P1070473.JPG" /></a></div><br />
and looking north<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jvnvY4FkaqkS57uNifkk1rqPaszVKYhn2ZHoCyU4vHWQ-qwKzggfIxy9PHpMWU-7qCJ5XK74edrquOgIokpD2ACSkSE24Ae-po5V5OQFWDPN_dLDJWVx1vwsLBcrj2MlaaQjjL41bPFn/s1600/P1070477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jvnvY4FkaqkS57uNifkk1rqPaszVKYhn2ZHoCyU4vHWQ-qwKzggfIxy9PHpMWU-7qCJ5XK74edrquOgIokpD2ACSkSE24Ae-po5V5OQFWDPN_dLDJWVx1vwsLBcrj2MlaaQjjL41bPFn/s400/P1070477.JPG" /></a></div><br />
from the Master Bedroom<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZiNkyU_wdneozR-RTHKfTmtAtMoZv3VV54FPnHduSd4xS87qmCm2aXUuhFvgprvUas2GXNFbGLD20R89FAj8ZgGyQvWX0KnSbpyrWcKqWOCw6zDHn5l0HJeTLcTAlbk8hh8q7Ape2Nb3/s1600/P1070474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZiNkyU_wdneozR-RTHKfTmtAtMoZv3VV54FPnHduSd4xS87qmCm2aXUuhFvgprvUas2GXNFbGLD20R89FAj8ZgGyQvWX0KnSbpyrWcKqWOCw6zDHn5l0HJeTLcTAlbk8hh8q7Ape2Nb3/s400/P1070474.JPG" /></a></div><br />
and the Guest Bedroom<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKCpmKHfwe1qMlQKTficOay8I9rwxFGQtJFH80pzjoJ7TrG2uI9ftH60Owi9uwUbDaoOqIEGQiaoegsbIANWWvb4e0E2ApdBN2CNCeuFxRMkPM4LRBiPmY3icRfIQWRYyBDF6HsGmwed1/s1600/P1070475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKCpmKHfwe1qMlQKTficOay8I9rwxFGQtJFH80pzjoJ7TrG2uI9ftH60Owi9uwUbDaoOqIEGQiaoegsbIANWWvb4e0E2ApdBN2CNCeuFxRMkPM4LRBiPmY3icRfIQWRYyBDF6HsGmwed1/s400/P1070475.JPG" /></a></div><br />
from the Study looking south<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xbhWsZgStcSM14779il-Rr2SxFghdN9TUkL9ZAjxy93CKJP5M7PIQs_EvWsZf3OtaGPf_I6gHzTA_0HAyhbCOSAwJ4NoyqmNWOdE9-gV27qnsCF-ltA3cdlk7SzUMQNG4jpkkgm5vI2S/s1600/P1070476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xbhWsZgStcSM14779il-Rr2SxFghdN9TUkL9ZAjxy93CKJP5M7PIQs_EvWsZf3OtaGPf_I6gHzTA_0HAyhbCOSAwJ4NoyqmNWOdE9-gV27qnsCF-ltA3cdlk7SzUMQNG4jpkkgm5vI2S/s400/P1070476.JPG" /></a></div><br />
from the Kitchen looking north<br />
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and from the Dining Room<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAV8_8iDklqgLXBoK86C7odbfwexb60jyOoYKY0f807zBipuxv2jGvgXDDpawXVgArUt875AjJcVs32CLimLyaNXhUTSW-vL-eZoz4s4nby2Swp-vbM0dtDCB8SYmbBdQYUmS2OGSawe5z/s1600/P1070478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAV8_8iDklqgLXBoK86C7odbfwexb60jyOoYKY0f807zBipuxv2jGvgXDDpawXVgArUt875AjJcVs32CLimLyaNXhUTSW-vL-eZoz4s4nby2Swp-vbM0dtDCB8SYmbBdQYUmS2OGSawe5z/s400/P1070478.JPG" /></a></div><br />
We have a number of established bushes that are now flowering in the spring...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4ec5J1jP-Oly_Pp1zFKVd0uwPI8MZicH51LgT6wDFcUjF2BVSatANmxssdXYaK5GpSb51MbgHK024KkW32rFrQg_H9xbSbUWyyEwqTGCl3nT1oKii7AxtBNZOeC2eL94smFZ_Lgi2e3w/s1600/Wattle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4ec5J1jP-Oly_Pp1zFKVd0uwPI8MZicH51LgT6wDFcUjF2BVSatANmxssdXYaK5GpSb51MbgHK024KkW32rFrQg_H9xbSbUWyyEwqTGCl3nT1oKii7AxtBNZOeC2eL94smFZ_Lgi2e3w/s400/Wattle.jpg" /></a><br /><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOAwdjeAz6tF61SWEXwY_gkTFVKBXwVWUVOQfmSARO6SlBNEJNKN20eHkxCDxYxph6J0H0vRm5dvbXK_WprsqrsP1488LgTzL1jajYMIPRlvgMx9kFQLtfc4fWTxJR_IO0PyD04QZamvM/s1600/PurplePlant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="458" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOAwdjeAz6tF61SWEXwY_gkTFVKBXwVWUVOQfmSARO6SlBNEJNKN20eHkxCDxYxph6J0H0vRm5dvbXK_WprsqrsP1488LgTzL1jajYMIPRlvgMx9kFQLtfc4fWTxJR_IO0PyD04QZamvM/s400/PurplePlant.jpg" /></a></div>
The first one (I believe) is the Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha) which is the floral emblem of Australia, the second one I have no idea.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-57861529288388509552011-09-07T18:46:00.000+09:302011-09-07T18:46:40.017+09:30The FireplaceWe have always said that any new home would have to have a wood burning open fire. The though of opening a good bottle of red wine, and settling down to watch the flames and hear the crackle of the logs is something that we are really looking forward to. In fact I have a special bottle set aside for the first occasion.<br />
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I like the idea of installing a firebox as it works far more efficiently than a standard brick fireplace. Cool air is drawn into the heating chamber and as it rises, it's forced out into the room through a jet at the top. This and the heat produce directly from the logs produces up to 5 times more heat than an average brick fireplace. Not that we will be using the fireplace to heat the whole house but it will save us time and money buying the logs.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.jetmaster.com.au/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=18&category_id=10&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=8" target="_blank"><u>Jetmaster 700D wood burner with four sided black trim</u></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLGWE_QIpj-6hMWSd-HGh8jbzwN1p7UUH1ZkjbWrb7iSRgpNpFcXBxYsr7vX1ZVYtfpCCGwMjLtKso4vXY4JUieUkDPnIAaxnsi6b5GWZ8WlaECtFGAs45hscd5rm-qV2L0KTeUGmCuEh/s1600/Jetmaster700D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLGWE_QIpj-6hMWSd-HGh8jbzwN1p7UUH1ZkjbWrb7iSRgpNpFcXBxYsr7vX1ZVYtfpCCGwMjLtKso4vXY4JUieUkDPnIAaxnsi6b5GWZ8WlaECtFGAs45hscd5rm-qV2L0KTeUGmCuEh/s320/Jetmaster700D.jpg" /></a></div>
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An optional hook-on safety screen secures the fire. It is child proof and spark proof so can be left unattended for burning overnight.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-85801490422807696462011-09-07T17:26:00.000+09:302011-09-07T17:44:07.839+09:30Positioning the House continuedWe met with the builder on our block on Saturday and paced around, up and down the slope working out the best spot for the house. Stakes were placed at each corner of where the house would sit so that we could clearly see its position. We imagined looking out of each of the windows to make sure that it was in just the right place.<br />
<br />
As I thought we wanted it higher up the slope and the back of the house facing closer to due north. This will mean cutting into the hill a little more, and looks like the study corner will need to be on piers. I just hope that this won't be too costly.<br />
<br />
We also placed the house closer to the western boundary. This will give us more space between us and the neighbours to the east, which will allow for the expansion of the patio or even a pool in the future. The western side of a house gets very hot in Australia in the afternoon and you are advised to limit the number and size of windows. We only have one placed high up in the wall of the Home Theatre. The garden on this side of the house won't be used, and faces the end of a neighbours back garden.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQg1nW9V4mvZlV4f4dXH1pMBoeEOWIdUhdFjtrpcuH-1xO65VJxt10Cz84nNkhl9h_dVIsP-r5UYVNeZInQMDLJSyDmfeEjnw7dwfXIS_vzebxiJxNTdJxEik9sxvrBzwuNYNC-RpJwt6/s1600/Land%2526House5Cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="600" width="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQg1nW9V4mvZlV4f4dXH1pMBoeEOWIdUhdFjtrpcuH-1xO65VJxt10Cz84nNkhl9h_dVIsP-r5UYVNeZInQMDLJSyDmfeEjnw7dwfXIS_vzebxiJxNTdJxEik9sxvrBzwuNYNC-RpJwt6/s400/Land%2526House5Cut.jpg" /> Click to view larger</a></div><br />
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Now that we have positioned the house in a different location to where we thought it would originally go, the design of the lounge and alfresco has also been changed.<br />
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Additionally the storage in the Home Theatre had to be removed because of the way the house levels change in that location. A new cupboard has been added to the Hall and bulkheads have been created in the Home Theatre and Entrance Hall.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlXEJd2pvUR11H1N4E_cZIKbyjEp-ddjH3hUNMEjnOwX78XkOgZ1DgiR2hace7LjpS57fgE7CCSY70TlBPdzKtDyoQ3u9_1mXJgdfFFmrfY5gVSAv4K8c7Br8A6F8LAmaMXJU2VdquXSL/s1600/Monteith5-2Cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlXEJd2pvUR11H1N4E_cZIKbyjEp-ddjH3hUNMEjnOwX78XkOgZ1DgiR2hace7LjpS57fgE7CCSY70TlBPdzKtDyoQ3u9_1mXJgdfFFmrfY5gVSAv4K8c7Br8A6F8LAmaMXJU2VdquXSL/s400/Monteith5-2Cut.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I have been very nervous about getting the location and design of the house just right, but it does seem to be coming together now. There's just a small tweak of the plan here and there now.<br />
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The next step is to have the preliminary engineering report done, which will take at least 2 weeks.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-71773494888182252202011-09-01T22:59:00.000+09:302011-09-07T16:17:34.151+09:30Skirting, Architrave and CornicesLooking around the display homes I realised how their skirting boards, architrave and cornices where nearly all the same and very boring. I want something a bit different, not fussy and over the top but an extra detail that would make our home feel special.<br />
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I also like the idea that all the woodwork, ceilings and cornices are pure white. Rich wall colours will stand out wonderfully against the white and hopefully give the home the look that I am after.<br />
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I have tried to describe my look but it is rather a mixture of eras and styles, it's fairly simple but hopefully a little different.<br />
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It turns out that I like skirting, architrave and cornices from the Art Deco period.<br />
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<a href="http://www.boral.com.au/productcatalogue/product.aspx?product=922" target="_blank"><u>Boral Cairo 3 Step 75mm Profile Cornice</u></a> (middle one)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYndoKutmaUlGDMZbJl4bFf7cCDhCLquN1uAXPMkLgVOq0b3lnB6s4jKslSr86X_SU1qav7ePhmtIKGuVdRFg6_D3NON8_ye5de9RybX1kE1KfaEW-O05fcjN8wRoNQHc_DvzvKAAhFLc/s1600/CairoCornice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="211" width="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYndoKutmaUlGDMZbJl4bFf7cCDhCLquN1uAXPMkLgVOq0b3lnB6s4jKslSr86X_SU1qav7ePhmtIKGuVdRFg6_D3NON8_ye5de9RybX1kE1KfaEW-O05fcjN8wRoNQHc_DvzvKAAhFLc/s320/CairoCornice.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I'm not sure whether to go with the <a href="http://www.classicarchitraves.com.au/combinations/modern/p94.php" target="_blank"><u>SQ Skirting with SQ Architrave</u></a> or the <a href="http://www.classicarchitraves.com.au/combinations/modern/p94.php" target="_blank"><u>DW Skirting with DW Architrave</u></a>. Probably the DW as I expect the bevelled edge will match the panelling on the internal doors.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN91TxD-hQCg3ziLiU-sX6kDQB98HWwV_7De6IGNtAkanZBW6xQtUHVmTtoGCkfWuFX2xVvQOzRT5I-TxqddzuCI1MLgWgoMazstsCTnL-W1PLUa-Vl2lE0EgaVOa7p0Ol-wzGdUv0IuFN/s1600/SQSkirtling%2526Architrave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN91TxD-hQCg3ziLiU-sX6kDQB98HWwV_7De6IGNtAkanZBW6xQtUHVmTtoGCkfWuFX2xVvQOzRT5I-TxqddzuCI1MLgWgoMazstsCTnL-W1PLUa-Vl2lE0EgaVOa7p0Ol-wzGdUv0IuFN/s320/SQSkirtling%2526Architrave.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Y4C2pUQpZV4neS4FX34ZHTxIGMqWy-cn1PpHhGrikUtK_whs3UBX1NG__rPRrib4PnCXaBnlgDD2fQEUJmpsiOOoWzNzJowxHjK-xacM8bl5yAJEP9vb-8tldubc2JxCwOrtVU1PGwaC/s1600/DWSkirtling%2526Architrave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Y4C2pUQpZV4neS4FX34ZHTxIGMqWy-cn1PpHhGrikUtK_whs3UBX1NG__rPRrib4PnCXaBnlgDD2fQEUJmpsiOOoWzNzJowxHjK-xacM8bl5yAJEP9vb-8tldubc2JxCwOrtVU1PGwaC/s320/DWSkirtling%2526Architrave.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-72328715524339982062011-09-01T22:16:00.002+09:302011-09-01T23:06:11.117+09:30The Kitchen continued<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTMphwwOkh8GPKvtcIwPBcCrICvvjwck87OwDjVq71MzAVsOdAimoucPIpW3FeO0lj2U8LfDFPC8VGRbcvZGGJ3F13QSEneYCgxiVmJ1IiaeE7VUJjXyPV7avhGDCFgcqwQNClaRi62nJ/s1600/KitchenPlan.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTMphwwOkh8GPKvtcIwPBcCrICvvjwck87OwDjVq71MzAVsOdAimoucPIpW3FeO0lj2U8LfDFPC8VGRbcvZGGJ3F13QSEneYCgxiVmJ1IiaeE7VUJjXyPV7avhGDCFgcqwQNClaRi62nJ/s320/KitchenPlan.gif" /></a></div><br />
I had been thinking about the location of the double oven and microwave in the kitchen, so I sketched a scaled version of the layout of the main wall of cupboards, so that I could see how the appliances would fit. I was very pleased to find that I could position the microwave over the double oven at just the right height.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpd-brDTsVTx1RTNOHzrzycDU4bmwNqqLZkKP5mqrsrIz3uq972PF5YIksISECl30lZw2y-2wcnTGZMlXgO8eHdIVFP0fMaE97bpfLufjTo1asVhZZZYmvZCTGcAk6XYdKY3Z4O7aIVMhe/s1600/Kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="195" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpd-brDTsVTx1RTNOHzrzycDU4bmwNqqLZkKP5mqrsrIz3uq972PF5YIksISECl30lZw2y-2wcnTGZMlXgO8eHdIVFP0fMaE97bpfLufjTo1asVhZZZYmvZCTGcAk6XYdKY3Z4O7aIVMhe/s320/Kitchen.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I also realised that the study nook with a worksurface and overhead cupboards, could at a later date be a good spot for a wine and beer fridge. The special wine fridges that cool separate sections at different temperatures are very expensive, but the single temperature <a href="http://www.hisense.com.au/products/refrigeration/detailed/type/7/157#features" target="_blank"><u>Hisense 29 Bottle Wine Cooler</u></a> is reasonably priced. Cheers!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_mxns17cJ-unwKXCNeoIuUz5IVKyM3ni6txdjVK0HcGBiJFhlOXS7j7gZHbYi96D0Gl7iTNVF95lhpESXXq7NnLgXZOihY9LMZwX3Q7p7IL9WpO9QTDb0T8HawKxEamhwunDGBb8zwNiS/s1600/HisenseWineCooler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="264" width="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_mxns17cJ-unwKXCNeoIuUz5IVKyM3ni6txdjVK0HcGBiJFhlOXS7j7gZHbYi96D0Gl7iTNVF95lhpESXXq7NnLgXZOihY9LMZwX3Q7p7IL9WpO9QTDb0T8HawKxEamhwunDGBb8zwNiS/s320/HisenseWineCooler.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-77121858140388334292011-08-30T01:28:00.002+09:302011-09-07T17:31:16.878+09:30Positioning the HouseWhere to position the house on the land is the next big question. Ideally we would want the house to sit in the lower half reasonably close to the road and for the back of the house to face due north. This way we would make the most of the space and have the best orientation to the sun to the north and views to the east.<br />
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The problem is that the land has a slope running up to the north-west. To keep the costs of removing soil and building retaining walls down, we should build in this direction. This puts the house 45 degrees west of north.<br />
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In order to get the most out of solar panels (either for hot water or electricity) they shouldn't be positioned any further than 30 degrees west of north. So that's my starting point (see below). If we can afford to build any closer to north that would be great.<br />
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To make sure that we get the most out of our views the house needs to be positioned as high up the hill as possible. I have placed it about half way up which creates a 40m driveway!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHioVEbb022Yewn8V3kbJxjC2VLcTKPffU8pfJ7iLoKtb3-s3RpVlDiowTFHpggPVugkQvgPYX6K0zbA7drjZbGCArnIksd7ai3MQTunVDwmai9HrOZH2xgkj_tZOq57NPC0SJuASFydI/s1600/Land%2526House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="600" width="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHioVEbb022Yewn8V3kbJxjC2VLcTKPffU8pfJ7iLoKtb3-s3RpVlDiowTFHpggPVugkQvgPYX6K0zbA7drjZbGCArnIksd7ai3MQTunVDwmai9HrOZH2xgkj_tZOq57NPC0SJuASFydI/s400/Land%2526House.jpg" /> Click to view larger</a></div><br />
Now we will just have to wait and see what the builder thinks and the soil tests uncover.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-49430607036484420132011-08-27T23:07:00.003+09:302011-08-27T23:17:13.972+09:30Doors, Handles & LocksI have always had a clear idea of what I like in terms of doors and handles, so fortunately it didn't take me long too find what I was looking for.<br />
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All of the doors inside will be white and the door furniture bright chrome with square backplates wherever possible.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.corinthian.com.au/" target="_blank"><u>Corinthian</u></a> Infinity INF4 Double Front Doors...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh999Knj2l8xlv7_SH46B7CKLUzoQTseWxX8p3eC4vNcPhIGRbzXodveEigJs_K6Ia2oyB0682hxh0kB9O7a3aauIuiSAPYS_9dX-0cyZAd2WIsaMNagiK2SnlJ39JAgcxgpvpiKWmI1w8U/s1600/INF4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh999Knj2l8xlv7_SH46B7CKLUzoQTseWxX8p3eC4vNcPhIGRbzXodveEigJs_K6Ia2oyB0682hxh0kB9O7a3aauIuiSAPYS_9dX-0cyZAd2WIsaMNagiK2SnlJ39JAgcxgpvpiKWmI1w8U/s200/INF4.jpg" /></a></div><br />
with <a href="http://www.gainsboroughhardware.com.au/" target="_blank"><u>Gainsborough</u></a> Pull Handle And Lever Set...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVNx2C3LO6iwI0aRFzEpYHBK2XR3q_dk7AWoR4qozFvkqzjRJdYCnaNkYXWI8zFXcsxnPLXPwGJIUTNH__z-AZaFhkmQWnu6BtFu5G1P7nujGRXKDt9oa63fD-xyv8tt_BKqOmM7pfPVal/s1600/EntryDoorHandles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="219" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVNx2C3LO6iwI0aRFzEpYHBK2XR3q_dk7AWoR4qozFvkqzjRJdYCnaNkYXWI8zFXcsxnPLXPwGJIUTNH__z-AZaFhkmQWnu6BtFu5G1P7nujGRXKDt9oa63fD-xyv8tt_BKqOmM7pfPVal/s200/EntryDoorHandles.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Corinthian Impressions CMB Internal Door...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtc-wGq7_em-JCxZgnbpLXS1iz5eCi3q4PUiA9E7FLYxmeeWTQV0L7CwJZPZb0VzSFudFw2bNPJOjM3gF_d6NVVupEfzSBvuikvUnunXgX3Br626W5yQcYxx9shXUpQ83ny3H6vOXB6Vg/s1600/InternalDoor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtc-wGq7_em-JCxZgnbpLXS1iz5eCi3q4PUiA9E7FLYxmeeWTQV0L7CwJZPZb0VzSFudFw2bNPJOjM3gF_d6NVVupEfzSBvuikvUnunXgX3Br626W5yQcYxx9shXUpQ83ny3H6vOXB6Vg/s200/InternalDoor.jpg" /></a></div><br />
with Gainsborough Aero Passage Set...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97Zdgb1QKdv3P6RamnBw75KPk9E_sHWft79OaqGTjTZAgT6Dno903K6-2icbsz79eCaw6EHhM6AZKBg_eUliDEmHMPRPL8RqZGXXes2uHYPd0zmILyuCZ6_BG3XHJFNso6qdE2EwW0S-m/s1600/InternalDoorHandles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="90" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97Zdgb1QKdv3P6RamnBw75KPk9E_sHWft79OaqGTjTZAgT6Dno903K6-2icbsz79eCaw6EHhM6AZKBg_eUliDEmHMPRPL8RqZGXXes2uHYPd0zmILyuCZ6_BG3XHJFNso6qdE2EwW0S-m/s200/InternalDoorHandles.jpg" /></a></div><br />
and when required the Gainsborough Square Privacy Set...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCd6AtBIJX1bGtcA2qreo4jBJAHVAk2ZejS792wkt29ldotvjPTu71H7eY13gzt0XMPpptFfmko0qVRJem6gD9Nbz7ZoZU21aVwdm1DoA2OO5aoo-QVIOvFxFYg44Evtvgl-qWFo273uv1/s1600/SquarePrivacySet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="144" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCd6AtBIJX1bGtcA2qreo4jBJAHVAk2ZejS792wkt29ldotvjPTu71H7eY13gzt0XMPpptFfmko0qVRJem6gD9Nbz7ZoZU21aVwdm1DoA2OO5aoo-QVIOvFxFYg44Evtvgl-qWFo273uv1/s200/SquarePrivacySet.jpg" /></a></div><br />
When used as sliding doors with the Gainsborough Rectangular Corner Flush Pull...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJm5SIL8mYsqf0jg1J_PQ-EaaUdvQLe6_OOZahKeI_lmA8C7E5GT4eo5KRbKK6G-AB8dfA_zlbeyPOfZ-cewuZ_HETqTI2HGI_QG16Q7tQ990NQ9yT2t2cI0we3jyY3khyB70FNjbIBQNO/s1600/DoorFlushPull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJm5SIL8mYsqf0jg1J_PQ-EaaUdvQLe6_OOZahKeI_lmA8C7E5GT4eo5KRbKK6G-AB8dfA_zlbeyPOfZ-cewuZ_HETqTI2HGI_QG16Q7tQ990NQ9yT2t2cI0we3jyY3khyB70FNjbIBQNO/s200/DoorFlushPull.jpg" /></a></div><br />
or in the bathrooms with the Square Sliding Cavity Door Lock...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5wXVSxLPTWDX7VmDzwGFAzikNMphf-AXi8S4X9SoRAz3OLfNJIbi9JaMP3Hr3EmTJY-foVN75aU4TB5SKV8jZUJFl1BQkFp0qdY0ue9Ljy8rOwFc95WiEC715d6zvzmMiLA7823d43bKe/s1600/SquareSlidingCavityDoorLock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="137" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5wXVSxLPTWDX7VmDzwGFAzikNMphf-AXi8S4X9SoRAz3OLfNJIbi9JaMP3Hr3EmTJY-foVN75aU4TB5SKV8jZUJFl1BQkFp0qdY0ue9Ljy8rOwFc95WiEC715d6zvzmMiLA7823d43bKe/s200/SquareSlidingCavityDoorLock.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Gainsborough Aero Leverset Single Cylinder will look good on the laundry door...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOda2YN1avRMeVaTFnMz0s2cWhS7ALHVQoLpn4Bp5k9aflW-M1obhULX63svEIc5ovxdp1j3aw5XcLkMvZuOC28ir4Sp05Sk3CjLxmHMDsBGv5DFirl__F-ugD24daOXRS-OSfGsC5Rro4/s1600/LaundryHandle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOda2YN1avRMeVaTFnMz0s2cWhS7ALHVQoLpn4Bp5k9aflW-M1obhULX63svEIc5ovxdp1j3aw5XcLkMvZuOC28ir4Sp05Sk3CjLxmHMDsBGv5DFirl__F-ugD24daOXRS-OSfGsC5Rro4/s200/LaundryHandle.jpg" /></a></div><br />
and for a little extra safety I like the look of the Paradigm 005 Deadbolt for all the external doors...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmmCJ2OyNtFX6joksv7uJu9qOEt0W_jh92D1DCx5_rRWH0XVmxD2hucvRdEaoM4AcTU9iUaGoTqT5VDu8XfWaZ3Z1TeRFos2Kh4Mu7xOWCSeBhsYKiCJzpd9HqF2dGMJ_FI-QvTyfjA0z/s1600/Paradigm_005_DeadboltSquare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmmCJ2OyNtFX6joksv7uJu9qOEt0W_jh92D1DCx5_rRWH0XVmxD2hucvRdEaoM4AcTU9iUaGoTqT5VDu8XfWaZ3Z1TeRFos2Kh4Mu7xOWCSeBhsYKiCJzpd9HqF2dGMJ_FI-QvTyfjA0z/s200/Paradigm_005_DeadboltSquare.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-83729508311865294662011-08-27T01:59:00.002+09:302011-08-27T02:12:46.841+09:30The KitchenAfter discussing the design and layout of the home with the builder it's now time to put together the look of the interior.<br />
<br />
Starting with the kitchen seems like as good an idea as any. The previous rental that we lived in had a beautiful kitchen with a layout that I liked, so I have based our plan on it. It's a large galley style kitchen with the oven and fridge at each end of one side, and an island bench containing the sink and dishwasher. The hob is positioned between oven and fridge. After years of trying to cook with a single oven and 60cm hob I have specially selected a double oven and 90cm gas hob. It should be a pleasure to cook in.<br />
<br />
The island bench provides a great spot for breakfast or chatting with the cook. The lower units will be mainly draws for ease of use, and the overhead cupboards will be without handles for a sleek look.<br />
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A small desk area will give the laptop, mobile phone chargers, to-do and shopping lists a home. This area will double up for pouring drinks when we are entertaining, with the glasses being stored in the overhead cupboard.<br />
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A neutral pallet of colours with gloss finishes will hopefully create a smart look that won't date too quickly, and complement our flooring and furniture.<br />
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The kitchen cupboards, worksurface and splashback that we have chosen are made by <a
href="http://www.laminex.com.au" target="_blank"><u>Laminex</u></a>.<br />
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The cupboards are CrystalGloss in Pumice...<br />
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The worksurface is DiamondGloss in Limestone...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLn9jFLOpEmK5UMGas3OCGa2zEDh5cp-cKXrtpHnpyylty4RY9IJ0FQO8sTsmZqzCW6O2CumkTuxT5hPxwCJnlyBbt8ejTqHv7D5ehqlq8Oe5cUaSnrxmwM93oQSZHumX5sO1w03uMs6xe/s1600/Limestone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLn9jFLOpEmK5UMGas3OCGa2zEDh5cp-cKXrtpHnpyylty4RY9IJ0FQO8sTsmZqzCW6O2CumkTuxT5hPxwCJnlyBbt8ejTqHv7D5ehqlq8Oe5cUaSnrxmwM93oQSZHumX5sO1w03uMs6xe/s200/Limestone.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I had expected to use the worksurface as the splashback but it is unfortunately not flame retardant. The solution is the aluminium based Metaline splashback in the brand new colour Regal Cream. I'll add a colour sample once it's available.<br />
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We will of course have downlights in the ceiling and under the overhead cupboards, but we may also have a white LED strip light under the island bench. Could look pretty cool in the evening.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.electrolux.com.au/Products/Cooking/Ovens/EUEE63CS" target="_blank"><u>Electrolux E: Line Double Oven</u></a> (EUEE63CS)...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lUYfm2qe1cPbq_G4zJFluIkVHCVHpM-qbloRha4UduWKu10UJ7uYzkGWRrto129OltGY5oxNl9BVsPBkf4J7Gc49COEoMh90YllAUaXwS9cVf22JM5OPPFD8Et8e0ZEBf0MvGHYO0SgD/s1600/DoubleOven.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lUYfm2qe1cPbq_G4zJFluIkVHCVHpM-qbloRha4UduWKu10UJ7uYzkGWRrto129OltGY5oxNl9BVsPBkf4J7Gc49COEoMh90YllAUaXwS9cVf22JM5OPPFD8Et8e0ZEBf0MvGHYO0SgD/s200/DoubleOven.png" /></a></div><br />
The <a href="http://www.omegaappliances.com.au/Product.aspx?id=109" target="_blank"><u>Omega 90cm Gas Cooktop</u></a> (OG92XA)...<br />
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We will use an undermount rangehood that you cannot see when facing the cupboards. I think that it is a very neat alternative to visible retractable hoods. It may be the <a href="http://www.omegaappliances.com.au/Product.aspx?id=37" target="_blank"><u>Omega 70cm Undermount Rangehood</u></a>...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFx-vlcrIHtfQswyY7Zg5FLJMq_iGoqq_v-VXUS7fmLfo3CzKU0sr9vRMmFfCRdOPGZUJCgb7weRtqEiQhBoa-u-nxhzoX5HXoRSDj62CTVWaiY9AP7ECBD6sgErxPvjQCWkS1pkF1BTzq/s1600/Rangehood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFx-vlcrIHtfQswyY7Zg5FLJMq_iGoqq_v-VXUS7fmLfo3CzKU0sr9vRMmFfCRdOPGZUJCgb7weRtqEiQhBoa-u-nxhzoX5HXoRSDj62CTVWaiY9AP7ECBD6sgErxPvjQCWkS1pkF1BTzq/s200/Rangehood.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We will also buy a new semi-integrated or integrated dishwasher. The microwave space has been considered with the view to install a built-in version when our existing one breaks.<br />
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I have tried to find an inset sink that has the same simple lines as an undermount sink, which we can't have as our worksurface will not be waterproof when cut. I have gone for the <a href="http://www.reece.com.au/bathrooms/products/9501823#" target="_blank"><u>Afa Exact 792 Inset Double Sink</u></a>...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoqXzDDd6MfI-74Wf1YOFyuULRPyR1R3roYV6SXj_Dk6nPKvvA8gRMoBaoYAReGmZVNSL89_Er78WWlji5JuH_jkBgA4cy87d7qkFXaG3sbECamGgIREXYc_WpQPHBYwVDxht_4k1yNjA/s1600/Sink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoqXzDDd6MfI-74Wf1YOFyuULRPyR1R3roYV6SXj_Dk6nPKvvA8gRMoBaoYAReGmZVNSL89_Er78WWlji5JuH_jkBgA4cy87d7qkFXaG3sbECamGgIREXYc_WpQPHBYwVDxht_4k1yNjA/s200/Sink.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The <a href="http://www.phoenixtapware.com.au/modules/mastop_publish/?tac=CRUISE_DELUXE_SINK_MIXER=#" target"_blank"><u>Phoenix Cruise Range Deluxe Sink Mixer Tap</u></a> will be joined by a <a href="http://www.waterwaysproducts.com/waterpurifiers.html" target"_blank"><u>Waterways Drinking Water Purifier</u></a> and a built in Soap Dispenser.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3knsGrCzZSqjSu26VVkq1j_6f4JP-hZARoRBgS63XROp2K6GFCrPv9H9aaTGMooASJFa-0TeYK20XXYbi3WNKdztn7H8n3MoynWGXLTjcU_cTKQ99cXWUHHmG29FDdzRTzR2VLC1DjS0d/s1600/KitchenTap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3knsGrCzZSqjSu26VVkq1j_6f4JP-hZARoRBgS63XROp2K6GFCrPv9H9aaTGMooASJFa-0TeYK20XXYbi3WNKdztn7H8n3MoynWGXLTjcU_cTKQ99cXWUHHmG29FDdzRTzR2VLC1DjS0d/s200/KitchenTap.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghRioJVAg00BCQ7sRPZNtuWdX3g51qr3Wp8TcK5ck8mmzTZU2ZSxHQ3y2v45kuhMzLZXTUgocJnMuIUsNwOSHdmU56ZKEEbp1lZaQIuqY0rhox19U_205z4DLjmnoitvVszD2hMtrJ9ZC/s1600/WaterPurifierSingle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="178" width="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghRioJVAg00BCQ7sRPZNtuWdX3g51qr3Wp8TcK5ck8mmzTZU2ZSxHQ3y2v45kuhMzLZXTUgocJnMuIUsNwOSHdmU56ZKEEbp1lZaQIuqY0rhox19U_205z4DLjmnoitvVszD2hMtrJ9ZC/s200/WaterPurifierSingle.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-29961428520715323382011-08-21T19:31:00.002+09:302011-08-27T02:34:11.472+09:30The Look of the HomeNow comes the fun part - choosing the look and feel of the home.<br />
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As you have probably guessed we like the look of Balinese homes, the roof shapes, use of wood and stone, plus the tropical plants and water features to name a few things.<br />
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The outer walls of our home will be rendered and the doors, garage and windows at the front will be either made of wood, or have a wood-effect finish.<br />
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There will be multiple roof lines with dutch gables, and a raised porch roof with stone veneer columns. The alfresco will have the same stone veneer columns at the back of the house.<br />
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We like the idea of a warm light brown/beige render, with a dark grey or light brown roof and the remaining windows and doors to be white. The stone veneer will be a mixture of cream and brown tones.<br />
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The colours may be similar to this home...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZQE68Fz4CLz9My0XE8f5FsxhygKbRd7EsGmWRNPlEVK1unk_ELtt4NL08GUboXMEex6ASIceyo4qFUsdFRZYw4SFdXbcgRDbBoAg0bgrHlvY0U8eg9A9mlnbtifWkuI5FxmC1wUCXgc3/s1600/Pagoda35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="178" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZQE68Fz4CLz9My0XE8f5FsxhygKbRd7EsGmWRNPlEVK1unk_ELtt4NL08GUboXMEex6ASIceyo4qFUsdFRZYw4SFdXbcgRDbBoAg0bgrHlvY0U8eg9A9mlnbtifWkuI5FxmC1wUCXgc3/s320/Pagoda35.jpg" /></a></div><br />
and have a porch similar to this...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7BHPHXTcrWjQJ4Ikblqub9c6ayYLIOs60dIGHCsJtO9xHQNiddMyDkM4baUS_0RR8PjQn8-Y8Ss3IWN9TvYiaCywk_XsG9eo3M-s3B4F-ESe_HbvEk0PoxRrMzi_0mf668Ixxkx5Who-/s1600/beechwoodhomes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="234" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7BHPHXTcrWjQJ4Ikblqub9c6ayYLIOs60dIGHCsJtO9xHQNiddMyDkM4baUS_0RR8PjQn8-Y8Ss3IWN9TvYiaCywk_XsG9eo3M-s3B4F-ESe_HbvEk0PoxRrMzi_0mf668Ixxkx5Who-/s320/beechwoodhomes.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We are considering using these brown tiles instead of the grey...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNT7n-xRgMKIp411ZMYA6Sw_lR2EFd7OAoOXK-8Rv3h-MzkzDJXp7Pjadaf7p_L1bmNQt4yvfZTu2j2RnlIVyK1OPZMusFrwkiDTEQri2iqDmiMrDJXstnu5OCz7ShHMfrWFxudg4vlPmS/s1600/Horizon_MochaChoc_HIRES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="125" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNT7n-xRgMKIp411ZMYA6Sw_lR2EFd7OAoOXK-8Rv3h-MzkzDJXp7Pjadaf7p_L1bmNQt4yvfZTu2j2RnlIVyK1OPZMusFrwkiDTEQri2iqDmiMrDJXstnu5OCz7ShHMfrWFxudg4vlPmS/s200/Horizon_MochaChoc_HIRES.jpg" /></a></div><br />
That's most of the outside decided, although we still have to think about the colours of the eaves, fascias, gutters and downpipes.<br />
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Now for the inside :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-58429138378587822602011-08-21T18:08:00.008+09:302011-08-31T16:29:50.671+09:30The Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA4wJXwpMy6JwteMf0M8Apv4IYSFs0EGJ9u_ZI4LEnZaY5DM6i47ZN9ECBj3_d_F-rVmEXz6eJDBgYf1hFiuUuA4hipjlo2LHg4ZYZnkFbbX7lNO7MsLtYeZX2_j26Qs_UK-qqiW8MujYU/s1600/Monteith4ScanCut.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA4wJXwpMy6JwteMf0M8Apv4IYSFs0EGJ9u_ZI4LEnZaY5DM6i47ZN9ECBj3_d_F-rVmEXz6eJDBgYf1hFiuUuA4hipjlo2LHg4ZYZnkFbbX7lNO7MsLtYeZX2_j26Qs_UK-qqiW8MujYU/s320/Monteith4ScanCut.gif" /></a></div><br />
I have designed our home using the software <a href="http://www.homedesignersoftware.com/products/home-designer-pro/" target="_blank"><u>Home Designer Suite 6.0</u></a>.<br />
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The home is a single story dwelling split over 3 levels with 201 sq m of living, and a total of 273 sq m.<br />
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Although the land runs north/south the fall of the land is more north-west/south-east. So the house will be angled with the fall. <br />
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The main living areas have been positioned to make the most of the northerly sun and the lounge positioned on the eastern corner to make the most of the views to the east.<br />
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The master bedroom and the guest bedroom also enjoy the views. The window seat in the master bedroom will be a wonderful spot to sit first thing in the morning with a cup of tea.<br />
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The study will have views to the south and the home theatre is tucked in between the garage and laundry.<br />
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It has taken quite a few drafts to get the plan right, trying to make the most of the sunlight and the location. The alfresco was originally accessed from the dining room but didn't make the most of the views, so we moved it to the north/east corner.<br />
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The house will be positioned as far up the block as is necessary to enjoy the views to the east without them being blocked by the neighbours roof.<br />
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I'm sure that there will be plenty of tweaking of the plan but it is looking good for now.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-13905562564283854652011-08-21T17:40:00.002+09:302011-08-25T17:55:53.120+09:30Land, land, landWell here it is, our 3,422sq m of land sloping upwards from the street with a north/south orientation.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4vWju6-vgQN0ycNwkp2WqbpgPHMRU18xmWEjskvj6H1Ixfz87C3L7RsOP1U213rJ3bGCUd7GtohiiaqtUoABnQtBfnampYVVpUhEMoxnSQBFS7SxIbMBbSLgwuKDCSbtlJA70Cn2xWoB/s1600/2008674738_6_FS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4vWju6-vgQN0ycNwkp2WqbpgPHMRU18xmWEjskvj6H1Ixfz87C3L7RsOP1U213rJ3bGCUd7GtohiiaqtUoABnQtBfnampYVVpUhEMoxnSQBFS7SxIbMBbSLgwuKDCSbtlJA70Cn2xWoB/s320/2008674738_6_FS.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYExj_70mXLgDGA2wKH8r0A0MudDQGsNPoOihnmPI7cZtffpJohh4ZayRii-ofor9NSylwCX2QyjumiKPA0VepxXqPcP_bl-jiFabwq-sP7GAizMUWuUF9s3Vr7XqRb2hfHX9g8KElXChT/s1600/2008674738_2_FS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYExj_70mXLgDGA2wKH8r0A0MudDQGsNPoOihnmPI7cZtffpJohh4ZayRii-ofor9NSylwCX2QyjumiKPA0VepxXqPcP_bl-jiFabwq-sP7GAizMUWuUF9s3Vr7XqRb2hfHX9g8KElXChT/s320/2008674738_2_FS.jpg" /></a></div><br />
It has wonderful views to the Mount Barker Summit<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis03m5PomZZe-EvOjVwHEG5CZU1MN9QokMjG6QYBS9YdwJzzlz74Wzo7YuGX2O_6zoxcSKt9WBOCOjzWd5rTO4Dm4DFMaOvet7mgSp-oCGz_cdbM3xuL8XH4QJQS_WDFkH6HnnUp3ap5Op/s1600/2008674738_4_FS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis03m5PomZZe-EvOjVwHEG5CZU1MN9QokMjG6QYBS9YdwJzzlz74Wzo7YuGX2O_6zoxcSKt9WBOCOjzWd5rTO4Dm4DFMaOvet7mgSp-oCGz_cdbM3xuL8XH4QJQS_WDFkH6HnnUp3ap5Op/s320/2008674738_4_FS.jpg" /></a></div><br />
and across the farmland to the south-east<br />
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To say that we are pleased with it would be an understatement.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-78123366765919902632011-08-19T01:17:00.003+09:302011-08-27T02:14:43.046+09:30Where to Live?We decided that we wanted to live in the countryside up in the hills with a bit of land around us, preferably on a block of 1,000 - 2,000 sq m. This area called the <a href="http://www.southaustralia.com/regions/adelaide-hills.aspx" target="_blank"><u>Adelaide Hills</u></a> is a range running roughly north/south to the east of the city of Adelaide.<br />
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It's a beautiful area covered in conservation parks and native bushland dotted with quaint villages and vineyards. The only downside is that it's cooler up there and has more rain than on the plains, and temperatures can drop to freezing point in the Winter.<br />
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Finding just the right block of land became a long drawn out process of reviewing adverts on the web and then driving all over the countryside to view them.<br />
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As we didn't want to live on a new estate (done that before) finding odd blocks of land that people were selling off privately was difficult, and we weren't the only ones looking!<br />
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After viewing all the land within our budget that were either full of trees (too expensive to remove), surrounded by trees (damp and dark), backing onto railway lines (for freight trains), next to main roads, ex-quarries, too steep or too close to neighbours we had to rethink our requirements.<br />
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We decided that we had no choice but to look at the new estates further out in Littlehampton and Mount Barker. The block sizes on offer are on average between 500-800 sq m with only the odd block being between 1,000-1,600. In Europe the smaller land sizes would be fine but here in Australia detached homes can be built right up to the fence line, which leaves you feeling hemmed in and very close to your neighbours.<br />
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We looked at the larger blocks and they all had problems that meant that the builder couldn't make them smaller in order to sell them e.g trees in the middle of the block that had to stay, backing onto industrial estates with sound barriers in between or next to a main road. We just couldn't see ourselves living there.<br />
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The only option left to us was to see if there were any empty blocks being re-sold in the established estates in Mount Barker. One area in particular had what they call rural blocks of between 2,000 and 4,000 sq m.<br />
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We viewed 7 blocks, 2 backed on to the freeway, 1 was shaded by trees, and 2 had road noise reflected off a hill. That left 2 that we liked and they both had great views. The one that we liked the most we thought was too expensive, so we sent the details of the other to a builder for advice as to whether we could afford to build on it.<br />
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The builder said that because of the steepness of the block it would in fact be cheaper to build on the block that we thought too expensive. So here you can see our dilemma, buy the expensive land with the great views, in a great location or start looking again.<br />
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After 48 hours of further research we decided to buy the land.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-68054933455635924272011-08-17T23:05:00.009+09:302011-08-18T23:32:45.650+09:30What We Want in a Home<div>We have thought long and hard about the type of home that we would like and how it would fit our lifestyle. Knowing that we want a block of land with views and a sense of space and privacy we know that our budget will not stretch to the typical Aussie home with a pool. We have decided to compromise the home for the land. Despite that the size of house will still be large by European standards.</div><br />
<div>The rooms that we want the home to have are:</div><ul><li>North facing lounge, dining room & kitchen (with pantry),</li>
<li>Master bedroom with ensuite,</li>
<li>Guest bedroom and third bedroom to be used as a study,</li>
<li>Main bathroom with separate toilet,</li>
<li>Laundry close to kitchen,</li>
<li>Home theatre,</li>
<li>Double garage with internal door,</li>
<li>Covered alfresco with access from lounge or dining room.</li>
</ul><br />
<div>Additionally we would like to have:</div><ul><li>Double glazing (not standard in Australia)</li>
<li>Hydronic heating using radiators (also not standard in Australia),</li>
<li>Real open log fire in lounge,</li>
<li>Refrigerated ducted air-conditioning (it is so necessary),</li>
<li>Gas boosted solar hot water system (a standard here with all the sun),</li>
<li>Rain-water tank for watering garden (there is always a water shortage and water usage restrictions),</li>
<li>Remote controlled garage door (not a luxury with tropical downpours and 40+ degree heat),</li>
<li>2.7m high ceilings,</li>
<li>Tiled roof (metal roofs are the standard in Australia),</li>
<li>Quality insulation in roof, and internal & external walls (Australian standards are pretty low compared to Europe).</li>
</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-8274898579007344652011-08-17T22:31:00.009+09:302011-08-21T18:25:59.250+09:30The Dream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i410.photobucket.com/albums/pp190/FindStuff2/Just%20For%20Fun/Dreams/IMG_3049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="175" src="http://i410.photobucket.com/albums/pp190/FindStuff2/Just%20For%20Fun/Dreams/IMG_3049.jpg" /></a></div>It has been a dream of mine since I was a teenager to design and build my own home. Interior design was my first hobby and with an architect for a Father I have grown up looking at house plan books. It's in my genes to want to build! <br />
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I have considered many house plans over the years including The Pagoda 35 by <a href="http://www.carlislehomes.com.au/" target="_blank">Carlisle Homes</a> (Apr 2007), The Inspiration 34 by <a href="http://www.porterdavis.com.au/" target="_blank">Porter Davis Homes</a> (Nov 2006), The Laguna 307 by <a href="http://www.gjgardner.com.au" target="_blank">G.J. Gardner Homes</a> (Apr 2006), The Waterford by <a href="http://www.prenticehomes.com.au" "target="_blank">Prentice Homes</a> (May 2005), and the Broadview 26 by <a href="http://www.metricon.com.au" target="_blank">Metricon</a> (Feb 2005).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5056884633796162904.post-46468524150143193502011-08-17T22:18:00.008+09:302011-08-19T01:25:57.527+09:30Puri Villa<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5MpZU22qEfSLsLY6Cs-V6EavyVmGUZ-8VJX3daclhMWCA5jh53M7k46C5bSDCBbHVt_LSF-5n1kl0Zq-T66iiholXBssiKvHYDhV-lHzZoGGDWOPlXTfqSrZzPqQfcNV2y8vgKb2NbCY/s1600-h/balibrick.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; FLOAT: left; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5073293060454824274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5MpZU22qEfSLsLY6Cs-V6EavyVmGUZ-8VJX3daclhMWCA5jh53M7k46C5bSDCBbHVt_LSF-5n1kl0Zq-T66iiholXBssiKvHYDhV-lHzZoGGDWOPlXTfqSrZzPqQfcNV2y8vgKb2NbCY/s200/balibrick.jpg" /></a>I have created a name for our home based on our love of the island of Bali in Indonesia. We holiday there as often as we can, and try to bring that "other world" holiday feel to our home. <br />
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Puri we have been told in Bali means <em>palace</em>, although the Indonesian translation says <em>castle</em>. The word Puri has been used in Bali to name many hotels. To us it is our palace – although in England the saying is "an Englishman’s home is his castle". So either translation works for us. <br />
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<div>I plan to have a stone or wooden house name plaque made in Bali.</div><br />
<div><span style="font-size:85%;">Photo: </span><a href="http://www.santrian.com/puri/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:85%;">Puri Santrian Hotel, Bali</span></a></div><br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0