Category: LifeStyle

I live in Wagga Wagga, NSW, and this trip has been on my bucket list for years. Finally, I planned it all out, hit the road, and made it happen! I couldn’t wait to share this incredible adventure with you. We started the journey in Melbourne, where we spent a couple of days on either side of the trip exploring the city. Melbourne is always such a fun place to visit, with its amazing food, shopping, and coffee spots. From there, we headed off on the famous Great Ocean Road, and it did not disappoint! If you’ve been dreaming of ... Read more

Making your home more energy-efficient doesn’t always require a full-blown renovation. With a few simple changes, you can reduce your energy bills, lessen your environmental impact, and create a more comfortable living space. Here are 10 easy ways to start saving energy right now. 1. Upgrade Your Lightbulbs to LEDs LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. Making the switch is a simple, cost-effective way to lower your energy consumption. 2. Install a Smart Thermostat A smart thermostat can adjust the temperature based on your schedule, ensuring that ... Read more

Sustainability is no longer a trend – it’s a lifestyle choice that can make a significant impact on the environment, and it doesn’t have to sacrifice style. Whether you’re working on a renovation, redesigning a room, or simply looking to incorporate sustainable choices into your décor, creating a green and beautiful space is achievable. Here’s how to blend eco-conscious design with your personal style. 1. Choose Eco-Friendly Materials The foundation of a sustainable home starts with the materials you use. Opt for natural, renewable, or recycled materials. Some ideas include: Reclaimed wood for furniture and flooring Cork as a stylish ... Read more

With the rise of sustainable living, many people are exploring ways to reduce their environmental impact and lower their energy bills. Two common approaches are net-zero homes and off-the-grid homes—but are they the same thing? Not quite! While they share similarities, key differences set them apart. Let’s break it down. What Is a Net-Zero Home? A net-zero home is designed to produce as much energy as it consumes over the course of a year. These homes are typically connected to the electrical grid but rely on energy-efficient design and renewable energy sources to balance their usage. Key Features of a ... Read more

It’s finally happening – the new house build is officially underway! After months of planning, floor plan tweaks, and dealing with the usual council approvals, we’re ready to break ground on our dream home. I can’t wait to share this journey with you all, from the very first dig to the final styling touches. The Vision I’ve spent years renovating, styling, and helping others create beautiful, functional homes. Now, I get to apply all that experience to my own build, bringing together everything I love – cosy, welcoming spaces, thoughtful layouts, and a fresh, modern aesthetic. This isn’t just about ... Read more

Building a new house means making a lot of decisions—some big, some small, and some that go against the norm! I’ve spent years designing and renovating homes, and this time, I’m making some intentional choices to create a home that’s functional, beautiful, and suits my lifestyle. Here are three things I’m not including in my build and why. ❌ No Overhead Cabinets in the Kitchen I know, I know—kitchen storage is crucial. But instead of cluttering up the walls with overhead cabinets, I’m opting for a well-planned pantry and lower cabinetry to keep everything organised and accessible. This choice will ... Read more

Gone are the days when concrete slabs were just a thick layer of poured concrete sitting directly on the ground. If you want a home that’s energy-efficient, comfortable, and built to last, under-slab insulation and a smarter foundation system are non-negotiable. The Importance of Under-Slab Insulation A well-insulated home doesn’t just mean batts in the walls and ceiling – it starts from the ground up. Traditional slabs had zero thermal protection, meaning homes would absorb cold in winter and heat in summer, making it harder (and more expensive) to regulate indoor temperatures. By adding high-performance rigid insulation under the slab, ... Read more

It’s official – the slab is down! After months of planning, designing, and working through all the details, I’m beyond excited to see this house taking shape. Seeing the concrete poured feels like the real beginning of the build, and I couldn’t be happier with the progress. The Slab and Recycled Void Pods A solid foundation is key to any successful build, and I made some conscious choices to ensure mine was both strong and sustainable. One of the standout features of my slab is the use of recycled void pods. These pods help reduce the amount of concrete needed, ... Read more

Building a new home is exciting, but it’s also full of decisions that can make or break your space. With years of experience in interior design and renovations, I’ve learned a thing or two about what not to do when selecting finishes and fixtures. Here are the top mistakes I’d avoid at all costs! 1. Choosing Flooring Without Considering Practicality That gorgeous light timber flooring? Absolutely stunning—but if you have pets or kids, it can be a nightmare to maintain. Scratches, dirt, and spills will show up much more easily, leading to constant upkeep. Instead, consider durable and low-maintenance options ... Read more

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know I absolutely love renovating. I’ve spent years transforming old spaces, bringing homes back to life, and getting creative with what’s already there. Renovating will always have a special place in my heart – but for this next chapter, I decided to do something different. I chose to build. Not because renovating isn’t worth it (it absolutely is!), but because this time, building made more sense for me and where I’m at in life. Here’s why… 1. I Wanted to Apply Everything I’ve Learnt About Energy-Efficient + Sustainable Homes One thing renovating ... Read more