Habitusliving.com |
- Sustainable housing: how to make a new or existing house eco friendly
- The sculptural beauty of the Fontana Freestanding Basin
- Tapware’s timeless pioneer: VOLA
- How to future-proof your concrete floors
- Where to buy full sized homes on a half size budget
- Why steel frames are the best choice for pools
- Transforming tiles in a few simple steps
- Ever wanted to live in a tiny home?
- Show+Tell in Melbourne
| Sustainable housing: how to make a new or existing house eco friendly Posted: 30 May 2022 09:08 PM PDT  Sustainable has a lot of meanings in a modern context, but over the past few decades it has become synonymous with 'environmentally friendly.' The concept of sustainability is all about having the ability to continue an action or a state of being over an undefined period of time. To live sustainably is to live in a way that could be continued across decades and generations. This generally has three tiers: environmental, economic, and social.  Environmental sustainability is facing the most prominent challenges today with issues like climate change, overfishing and farming, loss of biodiversity, pollution and deforestation. Social sustainability refers to the individual lifestyles of people in a community, particularly in terms of ethical consumerism, and is also sometimes called sustainable living. Economic sustainability is the concept that deals with growth and how humanity can continue to develop without sacrificing the health of individuals or the planet. There are a few ways you can employ these concepts in your lifestyle and building practices to create the most future-proof and environmentally friendly space possible. What is a sustainable house?  A sustainable house can look just like any other. Sustainable housing is all about practicality and minimizing waste, so reclaimed or recycled building materials are common feature of sustainable homes. Materials also tend to be lightweight and easily manufactured as this speeds construction for the builders and limits the carbon footprint of production.  An eco-friendly house should be energy efficient with climate-intelligent design minimizing the need for artificial heating or cooling services. The average cost of building an eco-friendly house (at Net Zero) in Australia is around $274,000, though prices may reasonably range from $193,000-$274,000. However, a NetZero house will make this money back very quickly through the amount that you will save on the unnecessary electricity and water waste costs of a non-efficient house. There are innumerable benefits to building a sustainable house or even just renovating your existing home with an environmentally-conscious design. The main draw, of course, is the environmental benefit – knowing that you are doing your part to reduce waste and heal the planet is a comforting thing, and if enough people switch to eco homes we can effect real change. Although this is the most morally compelling argument, it is certainly not the only benefit to building an energy efficient house.  Not in the least is the financial incentive; a green home can generate the precise amount of energy it requires to function, saving you from countless electricity bills over time. Carbon positive houses actually generate more electricity than the house needs, which you can then sell back to the power grid. Another reason to invest in sustainable architecture is the personal health benefits. The natural materials commonly used for building are also nontoxic and chemical free, reducing the risk of long-term exposure to harmful substances. Eco-houses are also built with the natural environment in mind, often utilizing the characteristics of the landscape like wind, elevation or sunlight exposure to inform the home's layout. What makes a house sustainable? 5 ideas for how to build a sustainable house5. Local flora  Native and indigenous plants are vital to the health of the natural environment around your home. Planting local flora may not seem like a particularly big or heroic gesture in the face of such a grim challenge as climate change, but it will make a huge difference to your specific area and the wildlife that inhabits it.  Native plants also require less frequent watering, cutting back on water waste. They are also more resistant to fire and they can help stop the spread of other invasive plant species which are threatening Australia's biodiversity. If you don't have the money for a huge remodel, this is one small way to make a big difference. 4. Eco-friendly amenities  There are a number of things you can install inside your home to make it that bit more energy efficient. Here is a list of the simplest items you can purchase to easily improve your energy consumption. Sustainable House Building Ideas: Common Energy Efficient House Features 
3. Materials  Recycled building materials are an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and repurpose material that otherwise would have been left to clutter up landfill. Other green home building materials include bamboo, rammed earth, recycled plastic, cork, reclaimed wood/steel and precast concrete. For a detailed overview of the 10 best eco-friendly building materials, see here.  2. Informed Design  An intelligent design can go a long way in reducing the amount of energy that a home will require for temperature regulation. Australia's most famous architect, Glenn Murcutt, is renowned for his attention to the natural landscape and the way that the elements can influence home designs.  The Marie Short House is a fantastic example of this as it was built on stilts and makes use of steel louvres to control the natural airflow. Consider talking to an environmentally conscious architect about your desires for a self-sustaining house; they will likely have a lot of key ideas for maximizing efficiency that may change your own house plans. Read more about Glenn Murcutt and his iconic "touch the earth lightly" approach to building sustainably here. 1. Switching to Renewables  The absolute best thing that you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and to make your house more environmentally friendly is to switch to renewable energy. This is equally achievable for new and old builds, as there are many resources on hand for those who wish to convert old houses into clean energy.  Small gestures that you can take to get to this point include installing a small-style wind turbine or a micro-hydro system. The simplest (although potentially costly) way to achieve NetZero is to replace your primary power source with solar. You can do this by contacting a solar installation company who will advise you on the ideal spot for your solar panels and provide a quote. The government even offers rebates for certain solar types of solar installation – you can check if you are eligible here. The cost will depend on the size of your system, but on average a 5kW solar system will set you back about $5,140. The post Sustainable housing: how to make a new or existing house eco friendly appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| The sculptural beauty of the Fontana Freestanding Basin Posted: 30 May 2022 01:47 PM PDT  Born in Bulgaria and based in Milan, architect Victor Vasilev's design practice reflects a close relationship between architecture, interior and product design. This dynamic interplay of disciplines is driven by the continuous pursuit of formal and material purity – a design approach that enables Vasilev to give shape to holistic home environments and reimagine overlooked, overly-functional items into unique architectural elements. Designed by Vasilev for Italian design firm Falper, known for their innate flair and numerous award-winning designs, the Fontana Freestanding Basin expands the family of Fontana washbasins, combining also two countertop models. An example of Vasilev's trademark minimalism and clean lines, Fontana is a showcase of intelligent design and expert craftsmanship, elevated by advanced material-processing technology.  Available from Rogerseller, Australia's leading purveyor of the finest European bathware and kitchen cabinetry, the Fontana Freestanding Basin is a freestanding washbasin entirely made of Cristalplant Biobased. With a diameter of 43cm and height of 85cm, Fontana's monolithic cylindrical form is presented in matt white and includes a contemporary design that creates a recess hiding the drain, with a double height that creates a play of solids and voids. A result of both Falper's commitment to material and design innovation, Cristalplant is an innovative eco-sustainable material that is highly resistant to heat and scratching, and is easy to clean. With a slightly velvety feel, Cristalplant offers a pleasant tactile experience and a beauty similar to natural stone.  Cristalplant is the first eco-friendly solid surface because it arises from resinous raw materials of vegetable origin mixed with natural aggregates of extreme purity. This state-of-the-art material has obtained recognition and certifications on an international level, including ECV (Environmental Claim Validation) from Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for its composition of natural raw materials and its percentage of easily recyclable raw materials; and GreenGuard Indoor Air Quality Certification from GreenGuard Environmental Institute (GEI), for its content of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). This material choice enables designers to reimagine the modern bathroom as a force for good. Cristalplant's numerous certifications make it possible to obtain a higher score under LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. It is also completely restorable and 100% end-of-life recyclable.  Rogerseller have a rich history spanning more than 125 years in the world of premium bathroom fixtures and fittings. Over the years, the company has built strong relationships with like-minded brands, many of whom they still partner with today. Their partnership with Falper reflects both companies’ passion for enduring quality and exemplary design, with the Fontana especially evoking a certain grandeur that can elevate a bathroom space into a form of art. It is this commitment to delivering timeless, progressive pieces of the highest quality from all over the world to the Australian market, as well as showcasing award-winning local designs, is what makes Rogerseller the number one choice for architects and designers. RogersellerThe post The sculptural beauty of the Fontana Freestanding Basin appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| Tapware’s timeless pioneer: VOLA Posted: 30 May 2022 01:13 PM PDT  With products made only in Horsens, Denmark, VOLA prides itself on its design heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. This highly-respected Danish tapware brand has epitomised the enduring power of craft, style, product longevity and honest materials for five decades, with iconic designs that have remained desirable over multiple generations. In 1968, VOLA released the original modern-day tap, with a simple and concise design that was the first of its kind, and an original concept that is renowned around the world today. It all started back in 1961, when VOLA's founder Verner Overgaard showed his proposal for a modular wall-mounted mixer tap that concealed its unsightly mechanical parts to celebrated architect Arne Jacobsen.  Designed to lastOvergaard's concept spoke to Jacobsen's functionalist vision of good design, and together they created the first VOLA taps in 1968 for the National Bank of Denmark. Soon after the Danish brand's iconic HV1 tap and 111 mixer were put into production for the general public and became a resounding success. Proving to be innovative since its early days, VOLA continues to explore materiality and finish variations, while remaining true to their original silhouette. Ignoring passing fads, VOLA's designs explore pure forms and geometry through circles, cylinders and lines, while ensuring each design element benefits and complements the user's need for functionality and efficiency. VOLA's designs are still wildly popular and used to this day – a testament to the brand's approach to product longevity and design as a response to improving and elevating everyday rituals. They are available in a range of modern finishes, including several metallic tones, with a modular design system that is customisable for any individual's needs.  Made to lastVOLA's unwavering commitment to quality is another reason why the brand continues to be the discerning choice for architects around the world. VOLA utilises the purest steel and brass to manufacture each product, combining Scandinavian craftsmanship with the latest technology to deliver perfect quality products. The unique artistry behind each piece is reflected in their timeless finish, which takes craftsmanship and detailing to another level. The premium quality of VOLA products extends to their internal parts. Even the oldest of their products can be repaired and replaced, allowing multiple generations in a home to enjoy and appreciate the craftmanship behind each piece. In addition, the continuity of each product and the interactive nature of their parts, allows for multiple possibilities for configuration across multiple uses, ensuring their relevance for many years to come.  Product longevity at the forefrontVOLA's desire to protect the natural environment stems from a deep Danish affinity with nature and comprehending the role that water plays in life. The company sources raw, honest materials from approved suppliers and maintains control of every aspect of manufacturing, including high levels of recycling paired with low levels of energy use. The metals used in VOLA products are highly recyclable, allowing the brand to recover and repurpose 100% of their waste and ensure end-of-life products can be recycled and re-used. This approach minimises landfill waste and reduces the need to extract additional raw materials from the earth.  Understanding the connection between water and how people experience it is at the core of VOLA's mission. Creating pieces that elevate everyday interactions reduces the need to replace and update them over time. Add beautiful visuals, high quality parts and the ability to be used over and over again, and you have tapware that can truly be called a 'timeless classic'. VOLA   The post Tapware's timeless pioneer: VOLA appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| How to future-proof your concrete floors Posted: 30 May 2022 02:50 AM PDT  Concrete sealers are a substance which prevents salts and water from being absorbed by the concrete. The sealant will achieve this one of two ways: the first by blocking the pores of the concrete, and the second by forming an impermeable layer through which salts and water cannot pass. The second type of concrete sealer is known as 'film-forming' and it is the most common for residential use. Film forming concrete sealers come in three different types: acrylic, polyurethane, and epoxy. Concrete sealers are extremely effective at protecting concrete in the long term. They help concrete surfaces to endure and resist weather exposure, water damage, grease and oil stains, abrasion, salts, cracking, chipping, expansion, and even just general wear and tear. They are an important part of concrete maintenance and concrete should be sealed every 2-5 years to protect it from such damage. On top of the practical benefits, concrete sealants also help to improve the aesthetic appeal of the concrete, often adding a glossy or matt finish that makes the flooring appear newly set.  How to seal concrete Sealing concrete is an inexpensive and straightforward job, making it a popular choice for DIY projects. The sealers themselves are affordable and commonly available in most major hardware stores such as Bunnings. Before purchasing a concrete sealant for your home, you will need to consider the different types and how they best apply to your situation. The different types of concrete sealers are: Film Forming 1. Epoxy Epoxy concrete sealers are the most popular because they are extremely durable. Epoxy concrete sealer works well indoors, particularly in high traffic retail environments or undercover garages. 2. Acrylic Acrylic sealers are somewhat softer than epoxy concrete sealers and they require a sacrificial floor wax. Acrylic concrete sealant is best suited to residential concrete floors, such as polished concrete kitchen floors, concrete benchtops, or basement floors. 3. Polyurethane Polyurethane sealant is more robust and often used in industrial/construction settings to seal joints. This style of sealant is best suited in high traffic areas such as retail environments (due to its durability) or concrete countertops. It is also a popular driveway sealer. Polyurethane concrete sealer is also known to enhance the aesthetic appeal of certain concrete types, such as coloured concrete or stamped concrete. Penetrating Penetrating sealers are best suited for outdoors and provide a natural finish that will not impact the overall appearance of the concrete. Penetrating sealers include silanes, siloxanes, and silicates which permeate into the concrete to form a chemical barrier by sealing the internal pores. Penetrating sealers are extremely durable, making them the popular choice for outdoor use as they can defend against weather like rain exposing concrete to high levels of water.  Concrete sealing products near me: the best concrete sealer Australia5. Deco Crete D-ONE  This 5-gallon spray-on sealer is non-yellowing, low sheen and low viscosity. It is a penetrating sealer made from siloxane modified methyl methacrylate to ensure maximum penetration. This is a robust and extremely durable product which will cope with high exposure to water. Well suited to cope with rain and overflow from salt water pool systems, this concrete sealant is also colour enhancing. It is also film forming and will cover 200-300 square feet per gallon (with each pail holding 5 gallons of sealant). You can purchase this product here from Deco Crete for $208.78. 4. Bunnings  Bunnings has an immense range of concrete sealers available here for an affordable price of $75.90. Their best rated concrete sealer is the Crommelin diamond coat paving and concrete sealer. This is a non slip water based solvent which will not have an altering affect on the appearance of the pavement or concrete. This product is extremely durable and will resist staining. It is breathable and suitable for poolside use. Outdoor use is best for this clear solvent, or in areas where a natural concrete aesthetic is preferred. 3. Crommelin 1L DiamondCoat Charcoal Tint  Another popular Crommelin product with excellent reviews, this DiamondCoat tint is a solvent based tinting agent which will stain and coat the concrete (or pavement) a darker colour. This product must be used in conjunction with Crommelin tintable sealer to work. The colour actually penetrates the surface of the concrete, unlike paint, promoting the durability of the colour due to the strength of adhesion. You can purchase the DiamondCoat Charcoal Tint in a 1L pail here from Bunnings for just $43.90. 2. Colour Masters Sealer  CCS Colour Master Sealer is a clear, film forming acrylic resin product. It is available in 12 colours, ready to be tinted with the CCS Colour Master Tint. When mixed with the tint, this product will form an opaque colour finish in either gloss or matt. Applied Concrete Solutions can also make additional colours specifically upon request. Browse the ACS catalogue here for more information on this high quality concrete sealer. 1. Dulux Avista  Dulux Avista general purpose concrete sealer is a clear solvent based substance which will provide extreme durability for all types of concrete surfaces. Dulux Avista concrete sealer is suitable for stamped, stencilled, coloured and resurfaced concrete as well as pavers. It will not interfere with the aesthetic appearance of the concrete and comes in multiple finishes (the most popular being semi gloss). This product covers around 3-6 metres squared for every litre and has a very fast application time (2 hours for the recoat, 2 hours to protect against light rain, 24 to protect against foot traffic and 5 days to protect against vehicle traffic). It is best suited to exterior use and can be easily applied with a roller. You can purchase this highly commended product from Dulux here. The post How to future-proof your concrete floors appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| Where to buy full sized homes on a half size budget Posted: 30 May 2022 02:45 AM PDT  What is a kit home? Kit homes are a type of prefabricated home with a DIY assembly element. Prefabricated structures are buildings which are manufactured off-site before being shipped and later assembled. The most commonly known types of prefab homes are kit and modular homes. A kit home differs from a modular home in that kit homes are constructed onsite. Modular homes are manufactured and constructed off-site, arriving on the property fully formed. Modular homes / transportable homes are therefore designed with a focus on portability to account for the shipping, often making them easy candidates for relocation. By contrast, a kit home arrives on the property disassembled and the construction must be organised by the homeowner. Homeowners with experience in construction may choose to construct the kit home themselves with all of the pieces that have been delivered. This will save a lot of money and is one of the reasons that kit homes are so popular in the current housing market. However, manufacturing companies will often have a construction branch or endorsed partners that can be contracted to assemble the home after delivery at the behest of the homeowner. While this does bump up the price, it does give the homeowner security of knowing everything will be up to code and that the house will be immediately fit for habitation.  That is another benefit to kit homes; their speed. Kit homes will often arrive in as little as a few weeks, making them an extremely speedy option when compared with the months of construction that a traditional house would take to build. Assembling a kit home is usually a matter of days, though naturally it can take longer depending on the size of the job and the competency of the DIY-er / contractor. Kit homes have been steadily rising in popularity since the first World War. The post-war housing market was difficult to break into for first home buyers, leading many to turn to cheaper alternatives. The company accredited with manufacturing the first kit home in the world is American store Aladdin during the early 20th century. Their off-grid holiday cottage homes were popular among the middle class homeowners and have inspired the grand wave of kit home manufacturing across the globe ever since. The main reason for the popularity of kit homes in a contemporary climate is their affordability. In an era of increasingly steep home prices (with frustratingly stagnant wage rates), many Australians are being priced out of the real estate market as first time buyers. Kit homes provide an alternative to this, sometimes available for as little as $10 per square foot for bare essentials.  How much are kit homes? On average, the cost of a kit home ranges from $40-$60 per square foot. A basic 3-bedroom kit home will begin at $53,400, though this is subject to change depending on the additions required to connect the home to the grid. Kit homes are usually quite small, so they are popular choices for couples, as second homes, or as Airbnb properties. Really cheap kit homes Australia: 5 most affordable kit homes for sale To help inspire your budget kit homes purchase, here is an outline of the most affordable kit home designs currently available in Australia. 5. Brielle – Valley Kit Homes  Valley Kit Homes is a well known prefab house manufacturing company based in QLD with branches across Tumbulgum, NSW, Tasmania and WA. Valley Kit Homes has one of Australia's most extensive kit homes catalogues, covering just about every popular house size and style (from granny flats to 4 bedroom houses).  The Brielle model, floor plan pictured above, is one of the cheapest kit homes on the market. With three bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in a 135.52 square metre area, this spacious kit home is available for $125,550 with an elevated floor and just $86,560 with a concrete floor. 4. Aitape – Valley Kit Homes  Another extremely affordable model by Valley Kit Homes, Aitape is a 3 bedroom, one bathroom house over two stories with a two car garage. This is a classic Queenslander style house with a fenced veranda, perfect for a small property with an ample backyard.  With an elevated floor, this home will cost $132,530. With a concrete floor, this home is priced at just $127,430. For more information on Australia's best kit home manufacturers, see here. 3. Banksia – iBuild  iBuild building solutions is an award winning manufacturer and supplier of high quality kit homes, modular buildings, and steel structure. An Australian based company with a global reach, iBuild has the resources to produce high quality kit homes at affordable prices. The Banksia model pictured above is one of their many 3 bedroom models, featuring a large kitchen, dining and living area with a total area size of 187.73 square metres. Banksia is available with a number of different inclusions, but prices begin at just $103,500. iBuild also provides the option of an on-site assembly service for your convenience. 2. Bolton – Wholesale Homes and Sheds  The Bolton is a marvel of modern kit homes. With 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a media room, this house is the height of luxury at a fraction of the price that a similar traditional home would cost.  Prices for the Bolton begin at just $128,199. Wholesale Homes and Sheds is a trusted Australian supplier of cheap house buildings with branches in QLD, NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and WA. 1. Kilcunda – Imagine Kit Homes  This kit home model is an affordable and luxurious one storey home with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Imagine Kit Homes is an innovative supplier and designer with a focus on customization. With Imagine Kit Homes, you can essentially build your own home down to the slightest details including things like ceiling height, window glaze, cladding, floor base, and the cyclone safety rating. The Kilcunda model is available here from $138,668. The post Where to buy full sized homes on a half size budget appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| Why steel frames are the best choice for pools Posted: 30 May 2022 02:38 AM PDT  The majority of above ground pools are made from steel or aluminium walls, resin, and metal posts. Steel frame pools are one of the most common types of above ground pool because they are extremely durable. The steel framework attaches to a liner which contains the water within the pool. Steel frame pools are sturdier than aluminium and will resist deformation for a much longer period – usually lasting between 5-10 years. Steel is one of the most affordable pool materials. This is for a multitude of reasons; it is lightweight, easy to transport, can be recycled, and is ergonomic in the long term due to its durability. Constructing a steel frame pool is simpler than pouring concrete, making the actual installation of a steel pool much easier and cheaper for the contractors. It is worth noting, however, the impact of the pandemic. Steel production was significantly delayed by the impacts of the coronavirus and supply is still struggling to meet demand. This does not mean that steel is impossible to get – merely that the wait times could be longer than expected. If you are in need of an above ground pool urgently, fibreglass pools can come prefabricated and assembled immediately on arrival. It is important to get stainless steel for use in pools as stainless steel is the only rust resistant metal appropriate for use as pool framework.  Steel frame pools have a few benefits over other pool types such as concrete, vinyl or fiberglass. Steel frame pools are one of the lightest pool materials, meaning that the supporting structure of a steel pool can be less robust and will save money in construction. Stainless steel is also incredibly durable, resistant to corrosion, and long-lasting. The right stainless steel will not show ware or damage over time and can resist delamination, cracking, peeling, discolouration, and leaking. The maintenance of a stainless steel pool is also easier than some materials like vinyl, which requires a renewal of the lining roughly every five years. Stainless steel pools have an impressive strength-to-weight ratio which gives them the ability to frame pools of an equal size to concrete and fibreglass, and with three times less weight. The recyclability of stainless steel is also a huge draw in modern times with a focus on environmental issues. Stainless steel is extremely long lasting and at the end of its duration in pool framing it will be 100% recyclable, lowering the carbon footprint of your home and helping to contribute to sustainable architecture.  Stainless steel pools are more popular above ground as they are easy to install and access is better. For inground pools, the more popular choice is easily concrete, fibreglass or vinyl. However, this does not mean that all steel pools have to be above ground. If you have done your research and decided that the flexibility and durability of a stainless steel pool is what your home environment needs most, talk to a contractor about setting an inground steel pool – it is slightly more complex, but it can be done. In fact, the Brazilian Olympic pool constructed for the 2016 Olympic games was constructed with steel cladding panels. For more ideas on pool design and what to consider when installing a pool, see the list of beautiful steel frame pool ideas below. Steel frame swimming pools: the 5 best design styles for steel swimming pools 5. Below ground  Some steel frame pools are appropriate for inground and above ground use. Not all pools can be buried and with steel there are a few conditions. However, the majority of metal walled above-ground pools are easily suited to being partially buried. A semi inground pool is a pool which is approximately half buried. 4. 10ft / 12ft  Above ground pools are usually around 10-12ft as this is the optimal size to maximise water usage without requiring extreme fortification measures or becoming too heavy. Because this is the most common size, you can find 10 and 12 ft above ground pools at a variety of chain stores including Bunnings, Big W, Bestway, intex, ozquatic and driclad. These pools are also easily affordable, with the average cost in the low hundreds. 3. Rectangular  A rectangular shape is one of the best designs for a multi-purpose pool. This is because they provide a large amount of both space and length which allows for multiple people to swim at the same time without the pool becoming crowded. They are also versatile and can be easily used as a lap pool or converted into a sporting pool with a volleyball net. 2. With deck  Installing a steel frame pool with a deck is a great way to create a coherent pool area on which you can relax when not swimming. Plunge pools are also a particularly popular choice for those with small backyards as they provide a submersion area without taking up too much space. Plunge pools also fit neatly into the deck and can be tucked away on the corner or made into the focal centre of the area. 1. Above ground  The overwhelming majority of steel framed pools are above ground. There are many benefits to choosing an above ground pool over an inground pool. The first is affordability; above ground pools are tens of thousands of dollars cheaper than installing an inground pool. Above ground pools are often also transportable, meaning that if you were to move house you could disassemble the pool and bring it with you to the next place. Installing an above ground pool is speedy and can be completed in days rather than the weeks/months it would take to excavate and install an inground pool. Above ground pools are also safer for children and animals as they are difficult to get into due to the height of the walls. There is a much lower chance of children, pets or wildlife stumbling into the pool and requiring rescue when the pool has a higher entry point. The post Why steel frames are the best choice for pools appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| Transforming tiles in a few simple steps Posted: 30 May 2022 02:29 AM PDT  Grout meaningGrout is a substance used to fill gaps between building materials, most commonly employed to bond tiles together. Grout is composed from a mixture of cement, sand and water. There are many possible applications of grout including connecting pre-cast concrete, strengthening the joints between floor tiles or wall tiles, filling voids, embedding rebar in masonry walls, and sealing joins. Grout is very similar to mortar – the substance used to lay bricks – only with slightly different properties. For one, grout has a higher water content than mortar and mortar is formulated with a lime additive that is not used in grout. Grout is therefore thinner than mortar, which means the two substances are not interchangeable. Mortar does not flow like grout does, so if used in the wrong setting it is likely to leave gaps and holes as it dries. Grout, being thinner and more watery, will flow to evenly fill the space. This makes it the ideal product for filling gaps like those between tiles, while mortar is a stronger substance best suited to binding materials together. Grout is a crucial part of tiling and no tiled floor looks complete without it. Grouting tile gives the floor a crisp and level appearance. It prevents grime and dirt build up between the cracks of tiles, and it strengthens the floor by securing the tiles in place. There are two main types of grout, determined by the base substance. Cement grout is comprised from cementitious powder mixture, while epoxy grout is created by mixing epoxy resins and a filler powder.  Cement based grouts are available sanded and unsanded. Unsanded cement grout is ideal for tight spaces, such as a tiny gap between tiles, while sanded grout is ideal for larger gaps. Sand prevents the cement from shrinking, making it a better mixture to fill wide spaces. Newer cement grout has polymers to improve the flexibility of the substance as cement grout can stain and without it will be susceptible to cracking. Epoxy grout, on the other hand, is extremely durable and appropriate for use in heavy traffic areas. Epoxy grout is resistant to stains, water damage, grease, acid, and general wear. This makes it the optimal choice for grouting, however, it can be quite expensive. Epoxy grout is also known to cause discolouration on the surface of unsealed tiles. Though it used to be a difficult substance to manage, recent developments in epoxy grout manufacturing have seen the addition of workability-improving detergents. What colour grout to use/ how to clean grout in tiles Deciding which grout type is best for your tiling is usually determined by the width. Sanded grout is the standard choice for interior flooring as it is durable, easy to work with, and easy to maintain. Cleaning grout is a matter of scrubbing with warm water, then spraying with a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water, leaving for five minutes, and scrubbing again with a larger brush in a circular motion. Grouting colour is best determined by the colour of the tile; generally, grout should be as close a match to the tile colour as possible. This will help the grout lines to blend in and will make the joins in the floor less obvious. The most common colours of grouting are white and grey. Some choose to use their grout as a way to stand out, contrasting black tile with white grout or white tile with dark grout for a chessboard-like aesthetic.  How much does grout cost?The cost to regrout a bathroom is usually between $100-$200. Grout itself comes fairly cheaply. You can purchase bags of grout from most major hardware stores such as Bunnings for as little as $1.50-$22 per kg. The cost will vary depending on the size of the bathroom, as well as the complexity of the job if you choose to hire contractors. Waterproofing tiles/grout for the shower or bathroom areas can be complicated, so this is not the best area to DIY grouting if you are inexperienced. What do you need to grout tiles?To grout tiles, you will need a few tools and materials. These include; 1. Caulk gun 2. Grout float 3. Microfiber towel 4. Margin trowel 5. Putty knife 6. Utility knife 7. Tiling sponge 8. Bucket  Grouting tiles: DIY how to grout tilesGrouting tiles can be broken down into a few simple steps – though each should be done with care. Step One: Choose and gather your materials This is the preparation step. You will need to first select the type, style and colour of grout that you wish to install. Next, gather all of the materials in the above list. Step Two: Mixing the grout Once you have everything and are ready to begin, the first step is mixing the grout. This will be a case of reading the manufacturers instruction on the grout packaging, as the mixing process for each type of grout is different. Mix thoroughly and avoid adding excess water. Step Three: A quick practice Select a small area of the floor – preferably in the corner or somewhere likely to be out of sight (such as underneath a couch) – to begin your practice run. This is a great way to test your technique and see what your grout colour looks like in action rather than jumping straight into it. Step Four: Apply the grout Once you have decided all is well with the mixing and your technique, apply the grout to the rest of the area. This is done with a grout float, which you should use to fill the joints of the tiles with grout. Hold the grout float at a 45 degree angle (this is crucial to avoid air bubbles) and work the grout into the joints without leaving any gaps by making sweeping circular motions. After you have finished this step with all of the sections, its time to wipe away the excess grout and thoroughly clean the tiles.  How to regrout tile without removing old groutThe same steps apply for new grout over the top of old grout. You will need to clear a space for the grout to slot into over the existing grout, which usually needs to be at least 2 millimetres to be effective. How long does grout take to dry?Grout takes around 24-72 hours to dry, so be sure to wait a minimum of 24 hours before doing anything that might jeopardize the grout's drying process. This is especially important when it comes to bathroom grouting as a premature shower or any other water splash could ruin the grout and force you to start over. The post Transforming tiles in a few simple steps appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| Ever wanted to live in a tiny home? Posted: 30 May 2022 02:23 AM PDT  So, what is a tiny house? Well, tiny homes are not simply small houses. For a dwelling to be considered a tiny home, it must meet certain size specifications. Tiny homes are no taller than 4.3 metres from the ground to the roof, and no wider than 2.5 metres. There is some debate as to the exact square footage that qualifies a tiny house; most agree that anything under 35 SQM floor space is a tiny home, though others argue that a tiny home is anything less than 50 SQM. Tiny homes are often prefabricated and can even be built from shipping containers, making them an affordable alternative to traditional housing. Tiny homes have seen a huge increase in popularity across the globe over recent decades. Variations of tiny houses are becoming increasingly common, with tiny homes on wheels gradually replacing the traditional RV and tiny homes swiftly dominating the Airbnb holiday market. Thousands of people attended Sydney NSW's Tiny Homes Festival in 2022 to view the latest in mini home design. The rise of the tiny house community Australia is largely because tiny houses are convenient and ideal to live in while traveling or over short periods of time.  Despite this, the rate of tiny home purchases actually has not increased in many years. There are a number of possible explanations for this, not the least being the discouraging state of today's housing market. Another possible reason is that tiny homes are not always as cost efficient as traditional homes and will sometimes cost more per square metre. However, a large part of the current hesitance in the tiny home market seems to be due to the pandemic. Lockdowns over the past few years forced many to re-evaluate their home space and consider in more detail how to be happy whilst stuck at home. For many, tiny homes are simply not enough to feel content – especially if they were supposed to remain indoors for days on end. But as the pandemic eases and a semblance or normal life begins to creep back towards us, it becomes more and more likely that tiny homes will see a rise once more. Tiny house living presents unique challenges that will need to be overcome by creative people. If you are prone to claustrophobia or like to spend a lot of time indoors, a tiny home might not be the right choice to keep you happy. Tiny homes are ideal for people who enjoy simple pleasures and will spend most of the day outdoors stretching their legs rather than staying cramped inside. Try to evaluate yourself honestly before buying a tiny home – a good tip is to measure out the square footage of a tiny home on your current floor and try to visualize living in that space for a while. If you do all of this and decide that tiny homes are definitely for you, the next step is the purchase! There are a huge variety of tiny houses for sale Australia and you are sure to find the perfect tiny house company to help you buy a tiny house. To help you narrow down some of the tiny home options currently on the market, here is a list of tiny homes for sale. Tiny house for sale: where to buy tiny homes in Australia from trusted tiny homes builders 5. Tiny Real Estate  Tiny real estate is a real estate website where individuals can buy, sell and even rent tiny homes from anywhere in Australia. With listings spanning across Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Victoria and Tasmania, Tiny Real Estate is very likely to have the perfect listing for you. Another benefit of tiny homes is that they are fairly easy to ship/transport, so even if you do not want to relocate you can still purchase a far off dream home and get it delivered. Start looking for the perfect tiny home at the tiny real estate website here. 4. Freedom series 8400GBS – Designer Eco Tiny Homes  This tiny beach house manages to squeeze in all of the comforts necessary for a family holiday. With a capacity of up to six people, this home is a marvel of modern special engineering.  Measuring at 8400mm long x 2400mm wide x 4300mm high, the home contains three sleeping areas, a bathroom/laundry, kitchen and dining areas. Prices start from $129,9000 and you can read more about this model here. 3. Mooloolaba 7.2 – Aussie Tiny Houses  The ultimate open interior tiny home, this model by Aussie Tiny Houses contains a well-appointed bathroom with a shower, toilet, vanity, and large window.  The high-ceilinged living room appears very spacious with an abundance of natural lighting drifting through the 4 large windows and sliding doors. Read more about the Mooloolaba features and request a quote here. 2. Gunyah – Hauslein Tiny House Co  Gunyah is a very popular Victorian cabin model from the tiny house manufacturing company Hauslein. At just 18 square metres, this tiny home can easily sleep up to 4 people. It is also highly customizable and comes with two different layout options. Prices for this model begin at $93,000, with additions such as off grid functionality influencing the final price. You can purchase this model or request a quote here from Hauslein Tiny House Co. 1. Teewah 7.2 – Aussie Tiny Houses  This is Aussie Tiny Houses' most popular model for families. With space for two queen beds and one additional sofa bed, this home excels at the intelligent use of space. It is highly flexible and you can customize individual specifications at three different building stages. See here for a quote or to take a 360° virtual tour. The post Ever wanted to live in a tiny home? appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
| Posted: 29 May 2022 10:13 PM PDT  A few weeks ago, Sydney-based furniture and object designers, DesignByThem, travelled to Melbourne to preview its latest collection of products for 2022. Over four days, guests visited the pop-up showroom in Collingwood to feast their eyes on the latest offerings from the dynamic furniture business. Celebrations were absolutely in order as 2022 also heralds 15 years in the Australian design industry for the company, which has claimed its place as a heavy-weight supplier of innovative and creative furnishings.  Along with the opportunity to catch up with Sarah Gibson and Nicholas Karlovasitis, Co-Founders and Designers, DesignByThem, it was the perfect time to introduce three new Australian designers who are collaborating with the brand. Gibson comments, "There were so many things that excited us about this event. We have a great following in Melbourne and it was really nice to finally meet people we've been emailing for years. It's been a few years of not being able to hold events or travel so we wanted to make this a big show where clients could get an exclusive sneak peek at new designs as well as physically see some of the best sellers."  With a new cabinet from Elliat Rich, rugs by Danielah Martinez, room dividers by Rhys Cooper and an all-timber stacking chair by Gibson Karlo, there was literally something for everyone. For Gibson and Karlovasitis, beautiful form and bold colour have always been key drivers in its offering and this collection did not disappoint. With rich reds and saturated yellows, cobalt blue and soft pastels highlighting the lines of each object to perfection. Of course, sustainability is inherent to all products and DesignByThem is at the forefront of initiatives to create, develop and manufacture with integrity.  In Show+Tell and new for DesignByThem was a range of rugs. Deep diving into the world of silk and wool, the rug collection is unusual with striking shapes and beautiful colour combinations that are just that little bit different. Danielah Martinez collaborated with DesignByThem to produce the range which is certain to be a hit if you’re looking for a signature piece. In fact, every inclusion on the floor was a stand-out and encapsulated creative endeavour at its best. The exhibition also showcased releases that could not be seen in person by interstate designers during the last few years, including the award-winning Olio Armchair by Christina Bricknell and Gibson Karlo, Sundae Lounges by Jason Ju and August Lounges by Gibson Karlo.  "User feedback is an imperative part of the design process. Being able to hear the thoughts of our client's pre-release of these products is incredibly helpful for us. It's been great working with the new designers who come from all different design disciplines and crafts. We're super excited to have them on board and to add these new product categories to the collection," explains Karlovasitis. With Show+Tell, DesignByThem definitely made an impression that will assure the success of the business for at least the next 15 years! Always at the forefront of creativity, DesignByThem is again leading the pack with style and finesse. DesignByThem Photography     The post Show+Tell in Melbourne appeared first on Habitusliving.com. |
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