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April brings the welcome arrival of the Easter long weekend, and for many homeowners, a chance to tackle projects that have been sitting on the to-do list.
In this jam-packed issue, we share DIY ideas perfect for a few days at home, from outdoor gardening jobs to quick interior updates, such as repainting the front door or refreshing the guest bedroom ahead of visitors.
Meanwhile, one area often overlooked during a renovation is landscaping. We chat with Ricky Burgess from Re:Scape Design, who explains why outdoor planning should start early.
Plus, we look at Easter table styling and the appeal of polished concrete flooring in contemporary homes.
Until next month, happy renovating – and happy Easter.
One of the beautiful projects created by Re:Scape Design. Find out more about their work on page six.
to plan right
tablescape
to hang art
If you would like to advertise in the next edition please contact 5444 0152. Sales: sales@myweeklypreview.com.au
We caught up with Sunshine Coast landscape designer Ricky Burgess from Re:Scape Design to talk about the importance of engaging a landscape architect in the early stages of your renovation or build project.
When planning a renovation or new build, most homeowners focus on the house itself – the layout, fi nishes and architectural details that will shape the interior.
Landscaping often sits at the bottom of the list, something to consider once construction is complete.
According to Sunshine Coast landscape designer Ricky Burgess from Re:Scape Design, that approach can create more problems than people realise.
“Quite often I’m called in right at the end, when landscaping has been left until last and the space still doesn’t feel resolved, even though a lot has already gone into the build.
“With earlier planning, many of those challenges could have been avoided and better options explored,” Ricky says.
With more than two decades in the industry, Ricky has watched the pattern play out time and again. The house itself may be beautifully designed, but the surrounding outdoor spaces are forced to work around decisions that have already been made.
“Landscaping is usually an afterthought, and that’s where
projects start to feel unresolved.
“The house is often done well. It’s what surrounds it that’s been overlooked,” he adds.
The result, he explains, is often compromise, unnecessary stress and missed potential.
Ricky says landscaping should be treated as part of the architecture from the beginning.
“Landscaping is not decoration. It’s part of the
architecture. It’s not the fi nishing touch. It’s the space where most of life is lived.”
Those spaces might include a barbecue area shared with friends, a garden where children play, a poolside gathering on a summer afternoon or a quiet corner designed for rest.
“Landscaping isn’t just about the plants”
“A garden can be your personal sanctuary – a wellness retreat right at home,” he says.
Importantly, landscaping decisions extend beyond plants and paving. Early planning allows designers to consider levels, drainage, privacy, access and the way different outdoor areas connect.
“Landscaping isn’t just about plants,” Ricky says. “It’s about the details, the levels, function, access, drainage and privacy. It is about the bones of the space. These decisions shape how you live in and move through your home.”
That doesn’t necessarily mean homeowners need to build everything at once. The key, Ricky says, is to design the whole landscape early, even if construction happens in stages.
“Invest where change is hardest,” he explains. “Drainage, underground services and foundations. Set everything else up from the beginning, which is why having a clear plan before starting any renovation or landscaping is critical.”
When those decisions are rushed or left until the end of the project, rework often becomes unavoidable.
“This isn’t about money,” Ricky adds. “It’s about avoiding rework and making sure the space works from the start.”
Key principles to think about early:
Clarity changes how decisions feel
One of the biggest challenges in renovations isn’t budget – it’s decision-making. When you can visualise how outdoor spaces will connect before they are built, decisions become calmer, clearer and more confident.
Flow shapes the experience of a home
Flow isn’t a style choice. It’s how spaces connect and how people move between them. When outdoor areas are designed early, that connection feels natural rather than forced.
Great landscapes improve with time
Well-designed gardens don’t peak on day one. With the right structure and planting, they continue to grow and improve over the years.
TAKEAWAY TIPS
Make the island work harder
A generous island provides space for food preparation, casual dining and socialising. If room allows, consider adding seating so it becomes a natural gathering spot.
Balance stone with warmth
Stone surfaces look great. Pairing them with timber cabinetry or shelving helps soften the look and adds texture.
Hide the practical elements
Integrated appliances and clever storage solutions keep kitchens looking clean and uncluttered.
Awell-designed kitchen should shape how a home is used each day. In this recent renovation by Coastal Trends, a dated kitchen has been transformed into a contemporary entertaining space that connects seamlessly with the home’s waterfront setting. The finished room feels polished and effortless, and many of the design choices behind it offer practical ideas homeowners can borrow when planning their own renovation.
At the centre of the kitchen is a large stone island with waterfall edges, creating a strong focal point. Islands have become a defining feature of modern kitchen design because they provide valuable workspace while also acting as a place for people to gather. In open-plan homes particularly, an island helps define the kitchen zone while still allowing easy interaction with
family and guests. The generous bench space encourages people to pull up a stool.
Warm timber cabinetry balances the crisp stone surfaces, introducing texture and warmth. While the minimalist lighting allows natural light and the kitchen’s architectural features to take centre stage.
1. PLANNING AND INSPIRATION
Every successful bathroom renovation starts with a solid plan. This stage is about defining your style, budget and practical requirements. Whether you’re renovating a family bathroom, ensuite, or powder room, early decisions around layout and functionality will shape the entire timeline.
The expert team at Highgrove Bathrooms shares its advice on planning a bathroom renovation timeline, outlining how careful preparation and the right product choices can help streamline the process from fi rst idea to fi nal installation.
2. PRODUCT CHOICES
Once the design is confirmed, selecting and ordering products should be the next priority. Key items such as vanities, showers, toilets and baths need to be locked in early to prevent delays later in the renovation.
Work with us directly or let us deal with your builder or architect
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3.
Before installation begins, the existing bathroom must be stripped back. Old fixtures, fittings and finishes are removed to prepare the space for new plumbing and construction work. Proper preparation at this stage helps trades work efficiently and reduces the risk of unexpected issues.
This phase focuses on plumbing, waterproofing and the installation of essential bathroom elements. Showers, toilets and baths are positioned and connected according to the new layout. Highquality bathroom products are designed for durability and ease of installation, helping trades complete this stage smoothly while ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
5.
Once the core installations are complete, attention turns to fi nishes and styling. Vanities, mirrors, tapware and storage solutions are installed. A coordinated approach to these elements ensures a cohesive look, combining modern design with everyday functionality to suit Australian homes and lifestyles.
6. COMPLETION
The final stage involves inspections, detailing and clean-up. All fixtures are tested, seals are checked and finishing touches are completed. A thorough final review ensures everything works as intended and meets quality standards.
For more, visit highgrovebathrooms.com.au.
6/22-24 Link Crescent, Coolum Beach
Our experienced cabinet makers specialise in designing, constructing, and renovating both kitchens and bathrooms. From adding additional storage space to installing splashbacks and benchtops, we only work with industry-leading suppliers like Caesarstone, Polytec, Quantum Quartz and more.
When you choose FORESHORE KITCHENS, you can expect professionalism, attention to detail and customer service that will put a smile on your face.
“Soft colours, such as yellow, pale green and sky blue, are Easter favourites when it comes to table styling.”
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Easter may be a more relaxed celebration than Christmas, but it’s still a good excuse to give the dining table a little attention. A few thoughtful touches, such as fresh flowers, soft linens and simple seasonal touches, can turn a casual long lunch with family or friends into something that feels special without much effort.
Stockists
1. It might be the usual pastel colours associated with the holiday, but we can’t go past this gold bunny statue from Adairs. He will shine as the star of your holiday table setting. 2.These pretty blush wine glasses feature intricate detailing and are made from sturdy glass. They are a must-have for holiday celebrations. They are available from Coast Store, Cotton Tree. 3. When it comes to table styling, nothing says Easter quite like fresh flowers. However, if you prefer the faux variety, you can’t go past these pretty Iceland sprays in lavender from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre. Scatter them around the table or bunch together in a crystal vase. 4. The gorgeous French Garden dining range in green will bring a touch of elegance to your Easter table. Featuring a nature-inspired design of flowers and bunnies, it is simply beautiful. It’s from Bed Bath N’ Table. 5. The Porter Harvest Patch coaster pack is the perfect addition to your autumn table. Easy to clean and durable, they can be used daily. Available from Provincial Home Living
Thinking about a home makeover, but dreading the stress? We’ve got you covered!
At Coastal Trends, we specialise in beautiful, hassle-free renovations
– managing your entire project from start to finish.
Whether it’s a stylish kitchen upgrade, a modern bathroom, a laundry refresh, or new floors and walls – we handle it all, so you don’t have to!
• Complete Project Management – Start to Finish
• Quality Craftsmanship & Attention to Detail
• Kitchens | Bathrooms | Laundries | Floors | Walls
Let us bring your vision to life – minus the headaches! Relax, we’ve got this.
From coastal to contemporary family homes, polished concrete flooring has become a familiar sight in modern interiors. Once con fi ned to warehouses and commercial buildings, the material is now valued for its durability, versatility and sleek, seamless fi nish.
One of the main reasons for its popularity is practicality. Polished concrete can cope with everyday wear and tear, which makes it a smart choice for busy family areas such as kitchens, hallways and open-plan living spaces. The hard-wearing surface is also naturally fire-resistant and easy to maintain, with most homes requiring little more than regular sweeping and a mop to keep the floors looking good.
Concrete flooring can also be an environmentally conscious option. In many homes, the existing concrete slab can simply be polished rather than
covered with additional flooring materials, reducing the need for extra resources and finishes. Beyond its practical benefits, polished concrete offers plenty of design flexibility. The surface can be stained to introduce subtle colour, scored with grid patterns to create visual interest or sealed to achieve a high-gloss ‘wet look’. These options allow homeowners to tailor the finish to suit everything from minimalist interiors to more contemporary spaces.
Polished concrete is refined through multiple grinding stages using diamond ‘grits’. Each stage smooths the surface further, creating finishes that range from soft matte to high gloss.
For homes designed around outdoor living, honed concrete provides a natural extension of the look. Similar in appearance to polished concrete, but finished with a slightly textured surface, honed concrete is better suited to external areas such as patios, pool surrounds and alfresco zones. Using both finishes together can create a smooth visual transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Another finish gaining attention in contemporary homes is microcement – a thin concrete coating applied over existing surfaces. Because it can often be installed over tiles or other substrates, it is frequently used in renovations where removing existing flooring would be costly or disruptive. The result is a smooth, seamless surface that delivers the concrete aesthetic without the need for a full slab, making it a versatile option for bathrooms, kitchens and other living areas where a continuous finish is desired.
Images: Dulux Colour Forecast 2026 Autumn/Winter seasonal release –Evoke palette. Styling: Bree Banfield. Photographer: Lisa Cohen
s we transition from the brighter colours of summer into the cooler months, Dulux colour forecasters predict a shift toward muted tones and spaces that are bold and expressive.
Dulux Evoke – one of three palettes from the 2026 Dulux Colour Forecast – embraces blush pinks, burnt orange, warm golds and dramatic tones to create a sense of warmth, depth and nostalgia.
Lauren Treloar, Dulux’s colour and design manager, says the palette is perfectly suited to autumn, creating a cocooning atmosphere that mirrors the season’s comfort.
The Evoke palette encourages consumers to embrace maximalism, individuality and the rise of cottage core, creating a retro ‘nana chic’ space.
AUTUMN STYLING TIPS
• Layer colour with character: Blend influences from multiple eras rather than sticking to just one. Think art deco curves, postmodern boldness and futuristic accents to make the space your own.
• Build from a soft base: Start with warm colours such as soft yellows, muted melon and warm mustard, balanced with soft blues and chocolate. This calm foundation allows deeper accents – such as plums, reds and deep aqua – to add contrast and a cultured edge.
• Embrace texture: Texture is key. Mix materials like velvet, glass, mid-tone timbers and handcrafted pieces in decor
and furniture, and don’t be afraid of patterns.
• Bring the warmth with your colours: In the cooler months, shifting sunlight can make your spaces feel cooler. Consider heroing warm-based tones like Dulux Baked Clay, Germania or Chocolate Treat to restore warmth and richness into your space.
• Add nana-chic touches: Incorporate colourful second-hand decor to bring personality and charm. Keep an eye out for handpainted ceramic and coloured glass to add a point of interest to the room. If you can imagine it in your nana’s house, add it!
In this home, stylist Bree Banfield teamed up with the Dulux colour team to bring the Evoke palette to life, transforming a light-filled dining space into a warm and expressive gathering place. The dining alcove is painted in Dulux Germania, a rich golden tone that adds depth and definition, while White Beach on the surrounding walls keeps the room feeling bright and balanced. Vintage pieces, handcrafted objects and textured finishes are layered throughout the space, drawing inspiration from mid-century design and creating a setting that feels both nostalgic and inviting.
In the main bedroom, deeper tones introduce a sense of calm and intimacy. Dulux Chocolate Treat, a rich and moody brown, brings warmth. Earthy hues, soft textiles and layered décor bring character to the space, turning it into a retreat that encourages relaxation while reflecting the home’s broader theme of comfort, connection and personality.
The second bedroom demonstrates the versatility of the palette, pairing the Baked Clay colour as a feature wall with Snowy Mountains Half for contrast. The warm terracotta tone adds depth and visual interest, while velvet textures, dark timbers and carefully chosen décor pieces build layers of richness throughout the room.
After the paint has dried and the furniture is in place, a freshly renovated room can still feel like it’s missing something. Those final touches – the pieces that bring personality to your home – are often found on the walls. Artwork has a way of tying a space together, adding colour and character to a newly refreshed room.
One of the most common mistakes people make is hanging artwork too high. As a general guide, the centre of the piece should sit roughly at eye level, which is usually around 145 to 150 centimetres from the floor. Of course, context matters. If artwork is positioned above furniture such as a sofa or bedhead, it should sit lower so the pieces feel connected rather than floating on the wall. A gap of around 15 to 25 centimetres between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame tends to create a comfortable visual balance.
Scale is just as important as placement. A small artwork on a large wall can feel lost, while a piece that is too large for the space can overwhelm the room. If you have a wide wall or a long piece of furniture beneath it, consider
using a larger artwork or grouping several smaller pieces together.
A good frame does more than simply keep an artwork in place. Quality framing protects the piece and enhances its presentation. Professional framers use materials designed to protect artwork from light, dust and moisture, which is particularly important for photographs, original artworks and sentimental pieces. The right frame can also add interest to even a simple print, giving it presence on the wall and tying it in with the room’s colour palette or finishes.
Brave is an acrylic on canvas, float-framed in oak and painted by Donna Munro. It’s one of the many pieces from local artists available from Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery, Minyama and Noosa.
From the time you book your free measure and quote to final installation of your new products, the feedback from our customers consistently demonstrates a level of service that exceeds their expectations.
This is something we are proud of and work hard to maintain.
More than seven million homes will be eligible to receive a mark out of 10 for their energy effi ciency but experts say the assessments should become mandatory. Words: AAP.
All Australian homes should receive a score out of 10 for energy efficiency before they can be sold or rented, experts say, as part of an expansion to a national assessment program.
The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme, which is used to rate the efficiency of new-build homes, will become available to more homeowners and landlords from July as part of a $32.7 million expansion.
Property experts welcomed the investment but said energy assessments should be made mandatory in Australia.
The energy-rating scheme, introduced in 1993, assesses homes based on their design, orientation, insulation, thermal performance and construction, as well as the energy used by fixed appliances and generated by items such as solar panels.
Homes are given a rating
from zero to 10 stars, with seven stars adopted as the minimum standard for new builds.
About 70 per cent of Australia’s 11 million homes were built before the scheme’s introduction and have an estimated energy rating below three stars.
Making assessments available to more homeowners would help them identify the most productive upgrades and to cut electricity bills, federal Assistant Energy Minister Josh Wilson said.
“The National Climate Risk Assessment clearly shows that hazards such as heatwaves will continue to intensify in the coming decades,” he said.
“Taking practical steps to improve energy performance in our homes will be critical to support Australians in their efforts to adapt to the impacts from climate change.”
The $32.7 million funding boost over four years will be used to train and accredit more assessors. Homeowners will be able to apply for an assessment from mid-2026, with reports expected to cost between $250 and $650.
Expanding the scheme could raise awareness of vital energy-efficiency upgrades that were often overlooked and misunderstood, RMIT University Associate Professor Nicola Willand said.
“We find that if people think about modernising or renovating their home, they’ll think about the kitchen and the bathroom and the things that are shiny and look good,” she told AAP.
“They often don’t even know if they’ve got insulation.”
Ultimately, energy-efficiency assessments should become a requirement for selling and renting homes in Australia, Dr
Willand said, just as they had been in countries such as Germany since 2000.
“Australian homes really contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and if we don’t improve the energy efficiency of the home, plus the efficiency of heating and cooling systems, we won’t get those emissions down,” she said.
“Hopefully it becomes mandatory and part of selling or renting your home so that whoever looks at the home will get an understanding.”
As more Australians are choosing to repair not replace, a renewed pride in practical skills is reshaping how we care for the things we own. From small household fixes to ambitious restorations, repair culture is gaining momentum as people look to save money, develop skills, reduce waste and extend the life of well-loved items.
To celebrate this shift, WD-40 Company has launched the Repair Challenge 2026, inviting doers, fixers, makers and professionals alike to showcase the repairs that keep homes, tools and treasured belongings in circulation for longer. The challenge is a global initiative that recognises projects of all sizes, proving that no repair is too small to make a difference.
“Repairing our well-loved items is not only about saving money and working towards a more sustainable future, it’s also about empowerment and self-expression,” WD-40’s
marketing manager Rosemary Murphy said.
Now in its fourth year, the WD-40 Repair Challenge has grown to support communitybased repair initiatives, partnering with non-profit organisation Repair Cafe and, for 2026, The Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) and Knox Repair Café. This year the winning entry will not only receive $5000 in prize money but can direct an equal donation to a local community repair initiative.
For more information on how to enter the WD-40 Repair Challenge, visit repairchallenge. wd40.com.au. The competition closes on April 18, 2026.
Small building businesses – the backbone of Australia’s housing sector – say running a profitable operation has become more difficult, with rising costs, workforce shortages and complex regulation placing mounting pressure on the industry.
According to the HIA Small Business Conditions Survey 2026, which was released in February, small businesses construct most of the nation’s new homes, employ a large share of the workforce and train many of the apprentices and skilled tradespeople the industry relies on. Yet many report that operating conditions have become more complex and financially challenging in recent years.
Regulation often places a disproportionate burden on smaller operators because policies designed for larger corporations are applied across the sector, the leading industry body reports.
The survey suggests many
builders remain cautious about expanding their businesses in the current climate. Sixty-seven per cent of respondents reported difficulty finding or retaining skilled workers.
Planning delays are also a major concern. Eighty-eight per cent of builders said approvals took longer than eight weeks and a third reported waiting more than six months for planning decisions.
Administrative requirements are another pressure point, with 32 per cent of builders spending more than 10 hours each week dealing with compliance and regulatory paperwork.
Industry leaders said improving planning processes and reducing regulatory complexity could help unlock additional housing supply.
According to the HIA, small builders remain resilient but are looking for clearer policy settings, faster approvals and stronger support for workforce training. Without changes, the industry warns Australia’s ambitious housing targets could become increasingly difficult to achieve.
Whether you’re building a new pool or considering a renovation, choosing the right type of pool can be a difficult decision. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about concrete and fibreglass to help you make an informed decision.
Concrete: Concrete pools have stood the test of time when it comes to durability and longevity. These pools are renowned for their ability to withstand even the harshest weather conditions.
However, it’s important to note that concrete pools are not impervious to wear and tear. Over time, they may develop cracks due to ground movement or shifting. While these cracks can be repaired, they do require attention and maintenance to prevent water leakage and further damage.
Concrete pools also typically require periodic resurfacing to maintain their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Fibreglass: These pools are constructed using a single-piece fibreglass shell that is resilient and resistant to cracks. Unlike concrete, fibreglass does not have the same propensity to develop cracks due to ground movement or shifting. This characteristic gives fibreglass pools a significant advantage in terms of long-term durability. Moreover, fibreglass pools are designed to resist fading caused by prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Concrete: Concrete pools require regular maintenance to keep them clean, safe and in optimal condition. Over time, debris, leaves, and dirt can accumulate on the pool’s surface and settle on the bottom. This debris must be removed to maintain the pool’s cleanliness and prevent any potential clogging of the filtration system. Maintaining proper chemical balance is another crucial aspect of concrete pool maintenance. Regular testing of
the pool water’s pH levels and chlorine levels is necessary to ensure optimal water quality and safety for swimmers.
One of the challenges with concrete pools is the potential for algae growth. The porous nature of concrete can provide a breeding ground for algae if not properly managed. Regular brushing of the pool’s walls and floor can help prevent algae buildup and keep the surface smooth.
Fibreglass: One of the standout advantages of fibreglass pools is their low-maintenance nature. The smooth, non-porous surface of fibreglass resists the growth of algae, making it easier to maintain a clean and clear pool.
Unlike concrete pools, fibreglass pools require less frequent cleaning. The non-porous surface makes it difficult for debris and algae to adhere to the pool’s walls and floor. While fibreglass pools require less cleaning, maintenance is still necessary. Regularly skimming the water’s surface and vacuuming the pool floor will help remove any floating
debris or settled particles.
Maintaining the proper chemical balance is crucial.
Regular testing of pH and chlorine levels should be conducted to ensure the water remains safe and inviting for swimmers.
Concrete: Constructing a concrete pool requires careful planning, excavation and precise execution. The construction timeline for concrete pools is typically longer compared to fibreglass pools, but the end result is remarkable.
The first step in installing a concrete pool involves excavation. Once the excavation is complete, the construction involves several essential components. Steel reinforcement is crucial to provide structural support and prevent the pool from cracking or shifting over time. Reinforcing steel bars, also known as rebar, are strategically placed throughout the pool’s foundation, walls and floor.
Another significant aspect of the installation process is plumbing. Plumbing lines need to be carefully integrated into the
pool’s structure to ensure proper water circulation and filtration.
One of the advantages of concrete pools is the level of customisation they offer during construction. Since concrete is a highly versatile material, you can shape your pool to fit your desired design, incorporating unique features such as waterfalls, integrated spas, or custom steps.
Fibreglass: Installing a fibreglass pool typically takes less time compared to a concrete pool, thanks to the pre-manufactured nature of fibreglass pool shells.
The installation process of a fibreglass pool begins with excavation. A crane is used to carefully lower the pool shell into the excavated hole. Once the pool shell is in place, the necessary plumbing connections are made, and the area around the pool is backfilled and compacted.
One aspect to consider when opting for a fibreglass pool is the limited customisation options available. Unlike concrete pools, which can be shaped and customised extensively, fibreglass
pools come in preformed shapes and sizes.
Concrete: The initial cost of constructing a concrete pool can be higher due to the labourintensive nature of the process.
However, it’s important to note that concrete pools offer longevity and durability, potentially outweighing the initial investment. Over time, though, concrete pools may require resurfacing, especially if cracks or deterioration occur. Repairs, such as fixing leaks or addressing structural issues, can also contribute to ongoing costs.
Fibreglass: When it comes to the upfront cost, fibreglass pools generally have a lower price tag.
An advantage of fibreglass pools lies in their long-term maintenance and repair savings.
For those seeking a customised and long-lasting pool, concrete may be the best choice. However, if convenience and cost-effectiveness are your priorities, fibreglass pools are a good option.
Four days at home over the Easter long weekend can feel like a gift. It can be the ideal time to tackle those small projects that have been sitting on the to-do list for months. From freshening the garden to giving indoor spaces a lift, a few simple jobs can make your home feel ready for the cooler months ahead.
Autumn is one of the most comfortable times of the year to spend outdoors in southeast Queensland. The heat of summer has eased, but the soil is still warm enough for planting. This is a good time to add colour with hardy flowering plants such as pansies and roses. Tibouchina also performs well in the local climate, bringing a burst of purple to autumn gardens.
Your lawn will also benefit from some attention after the summer months. Applying a slow-release fertiliser encourages stronger root systems and helps thicken the grass ahead of winter.
While you’re outside, check the practical jobs as well. Clearing leaves and debris from gutters can help prevent water damage during heavy rain and trimming back overgrown branches will tidy the garden and allow more light into outdoor spaces – helping plants to thrive. For those looking for a slightly bigger project, installing a simple irrigation system can make maintaining the garden easier throughout the year. Modern systems can be timed and adjusted to deliver water efficiently, helping both your plants and your water bill.
Autumn is one of the best times to top up garden mulch. It helps retain moisture in the soil, keeps weeds down and protects plant roots through the coming winter months.
Outdoor lighting often gets overlooked. Swapping old fittings for simple modern wall lights or solar path lights can instantly change the feel of an entryway or garden path. It’s a small job that can make outdoor spaces feel more welcoming when evenings start getting darker.
Long weekends are ideal for a household reset. A thorough clean and declutter is sure to refresh your home.
Start with the areas that get overlooked. Ceiling fans, air-conditioning vents and window tracks tend to collect dust over summer and will benefit from a proper clean.
Guest rooms are another good place to start, particularly if family or friends are visiting over Easter. Fresh linen, a tidy wardrobe and a quick declutter of surfaces can make the space feel welcoming.
Sorting through drawers and cupboards can also uncover forgotten items – old electronics, tangled cords or boxes of photos. Backing up old devices and organising images digitally can help preserve memories while freeing up valuable storage space.
The front entry sets the tone for the whole home. A quick refresh can make a big difference. Start by giving the area a proper clean. Sweep paths, scrub tiles and wash down walls if needed. Potted plants can add colour, while a new doormat or outdoor light fi tting can update the entire look instantly and add a touch of personality.
If the front door is looking tired, a fresh coat of paint or stain can bring it back to life and create a welcoming fi rst impression.
A feature wall is one of the simplest ways to update an interior room without committing to a full renovation.
Wallpaper has returned in a big way, with designs ranging from soft florals to bold geometric prints. Even a single wall in a bedroom, hallway or study can add personality to a space.
For a more subtle option, consider painting a wall in a deeper tone or adding timber panelling for texture and warmth. We love a splash of colour in the powder room, laundry or dining room!
Kitchen Shop Qld now on the coast for 26 years providing full Kitchen and Bathroom renovations
3. RETHINK STORAGE SPACES
Small areas like wardrobes, linen cupboards or laundry storage often become cluttered over time.
Installing additional shelving or simple wire racks can instantly improve functionality. Storage baskets, drawer organisers, hanging storage and shoe racks are easy additions that help keep everything in its place.
It’s a relatively quick project, but one that can make daily routines feel far more organised.
The rope storage baskets from Coastal Drift Home, Kawana Shoppingworld.
Designers: Alan Schull & Chris Schull for Kitchen Shop Qld
Handcrafted in Spain from recycled glass, the Miguel vase is created from an old glass bottle. Style it with soft, native stems – eucalyptus, banksia or kangaroo paw. It’s from Pillow Talk
Let our beautiful surroundings inspire your home décor. Blue, green and sandy tones work well against a white base. e your reen rk well e.
Sometimes it’s the small touches that make the most impact. The gold hanging shell from Coastal Drift Home can be hung from a bathroom or kitchen handle, or even on a hook in the entryway to your home.
We love the Sacha outdoor dining table and bench. It features concrete framing and a travertine-look finish. It’s from Domayne, Maroochydore Homemaker Centre we love!
Evening Rockpools Moffat Beach is an original acrylic painting on canvas by artist Shelley Harkness. It’s available from Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery , Minyama and Noosa.
The Beachhouse wall hooks are lightweight for easy hanging and are well-suited for a Hamptons or modern coastal-designed home. Visit Coastal Drift Home at Kawana Shoppingworld.
Stevens Street Gallery in Yandina features a wide range of local and national artists. The Butcherbird Aglow framed oil on panel by Alex Louise is a striking piece that will bring life to any wall in the home.
From
teals
Layering cushions on your bedding or sofa is a great way to introduce varying tone and texture. We like the match of the soft grey linen cushion and the Pascale turquoise cushion, both from Kas Australia. Visit kasaustralia.com.au for local stockists.
The Kodu grey table lamp from Adairs
With an architectural feel, the agave still has a place in contemporary homes. They are best suited to a concrete or dark-coloured pot. This lowmaintenance, artificial variety is from Domayne
You can shift the tone of your kitchen without introducing bold cabinetry. We love the way this tiled splashback, created by Norm Evans Floors at Kunda Park, brings a stylish and contemporary vibe to this space.
