Liveable Homes: resources for designing accessible homes
The Liveable Homes initiative was developed to increase the number of private and public homes in WA built with universal access. They are open-plan, easy to use and move around in and designed to maximise space in key areas. This ensures people of all ages and abilities can live in or visit the home. Resources […]
Renovation Planning
Once the decision to extend has been made, it is a good idea, if you are relatively new to the house, to live in the existing home as it is for a period to get the feel of the place, which will help you greatly with your plans. It is vitally important not to inhibit […]
Renovations and Extensions in WA
The value of home alterations activity in Western Australia is huge, at up to $3 billion per year. Many homes in Perth that were built in the 1960’s and early 1970’s are approaching their “use by” date. Retrofitting activity of laundries, kitchens and bathrooms is very popular. The decision to renovate is often the result […]
Renovation Costs
We already know that kitchens, bathrooms and laundries are the most expensive parts of a home to add or update, but the cost of renovating can quickly add up even when it is a simple extra bedroom or games room at the back. New homes have fewer complications to overcome, and builders generally start […]
Patios and Sheds
There are many contractors who earn their livelihood building small sheds, pergolas, patios etc and perform quite well. One area that you should carefully note is that under the Builders’ Registration Act any project valued at over $20k requires the services of a registered builder. Handypersons who advertise in community newspapers are therefore restricted in […]
Storm Season – Simple Strategies
Simple strategies for the arrival of the storm season The official ‘storm season’ runs from May to October in southern WA. There is no substitute for preparation, and there is plenty that can be done to protect your home in advance. This can save you a lot of time, hassle cost in the long run if […]
Smart Planning Your Home and Garden
Smart planning your garden With smart palnning your garden can help control the temperature of your home. Plants and trees moderate temperature, keeping your hosue cool in summer, and sheltering it from the cold in winter. By choosing deciduous trees that shed leaves in autumn, you can still let in the warmth of the winter […]
Renovations – Helpful Hints
Leading home additions and extensions specialists now have their own qualified consulting architects and design draftsmen. They handle every phase of the project, from design concept through to construction, including all statutory and local authority submissions and approvals. Every extension should be designed to meet the specific needs of the client. Consultation between family and […]
Renovation and other checks
If you are uncertain as to the condition of the building’s foundations or the general soundness of the house, it may be worthwhile to call in an inspector or engineer for a professional opinion. You should find, however, that if you borrow funds for your extensions, the lender will have their own inspectors check that […]
Liveable Homes
Liveable Homes: Resource for designing new homes A resource has been developed to support designers and builders improve the adaptability and accessibility of new housing designs. Our population is ageing, and the number of people with disability is also on the increase. The ‘Livable Homes’ resources have been developed by the Disability Services Commission with […]