tusmore south australia renovation case study

Adelaide Renovation Case Study – Tusmore

12 Kennaway Street Tusmore – Completed By Mayfair Building Group

This Circa 1935 Art Deco home in Tusmore has recently undergone a huge transformation bringing a luxury feel of modern Art Deco back into this home. You can see before and after image hereL

BEFORE: https://www.homely.com.au/homes/12-kennaway-street-tusmore-sa-5065/6197688

AFTER: https://www.realestate.com.au/property/12-kennaway-st-tusmore-sa-5065

front yard home reno tusmore adelaide

 

Property Location

The property located in heritage street scape zoning of the Burnside council has kept with the styling of the area
while achieving a new luxury feel to house. Starting from the front of property the bricks removed from the freestanding garage where salvaged, dressed and repurposed to raise the heights of the front pillars. Metal in fill panels and electric gates where then manufactured to compliment the lead light glass in the front windows and doors of the home.

Front Entrance

The front entrance portico terrazzo flooring was grinded back 2mm and polished to bring this beautiful emerald coloured stone another lease on life. The ceiling lining was renewed and painted which included the addition of art deco light fittings.

Under the main roof of the home 3 generously sized bedrooms were created each with their own walk-through robes and bathrooms. Additional to this was the creation of a library. The original Rimu floorboards where sanded and polished giving a bespoke feel to all the rooms including the grand entrance. Terrazzo looking floor tiles were used in all wet areas to compliment the art deco style of the home.

To the rear of the home the two-storey addition was removed and new 120 square metre addition was created. Architecturally designed the building uses eco-friendly wall panelling along with tiles for the window hoods and alfresco roof repurposed from the two-storey addition which was removed. The concrete slab has been laid using a ghost-coloured concrete which has been grinded back to a medium exposed aggregate.

The Kitchen

The kitchen has high end shaker cupboards and all bench tops throughout the property have Caesar stone in either the cloud or washed concrete colour tones. A 900mm freestanding SMEG gas oven commands the attention of this grand rear addition. Behind the kitchen is a full butler’s pantry incorporating a Bosch dishwasher and Billi filtered/chilled water dispenser. As part of the new addition a fourth bathroom was built along with a generous study off to the side leading out to a modern wooden pergola.

View more information on our kitchen renovation service here.

kitchen reno tusmore

 

The Alfresco Room

Leading out to the back yard is a huge 5 metre cedar bi-folding glass panelled door. The alfresco room has provision for both gas barbequing and gas heating along with a large 7 speed outdoor fan. Around the entire property are concrete pathways along with a huge driveway designed to accommodate up to 6 vehicles with a carport built to cover 2 large vehicles. New fencing around the building’s perimeter with rear gated access out to beautiful Tusmore park.

 

alfresco home room creation

 

A finishing touch is the gun metal grey storage shed with electricity and water supplied to it. This beautiful art deco home in the heart of Tusmore will remain on trend with all periods of time due to its neutral colours and finishes leaving the home owners extremely happy.

home building site in Adeladie

The Impacts Of Covid 19 On The Adelaide Building Industry

It would be a fair assumption that none of us will ever forget the year 2020 and Corona Virus.  No matter who you are there would have been some impact on your life in one way or another.  Some people had positive results from the pandemic, but many saw what can only be described as a horrendous year in 2020 with some flow on affects still carrying through to 2021.

How has Mayfair Building Group approached the Corona Virus

At the start of the pandemic many in the building industry feared the worse and started to scale back manufacturing.  Take Laminex for example they started to scale back there manufacturing shifts in the fear of a huge downturn in the building industry across Australia, as did many other manufacturing companies such as timber suppliers.  Consumer confidence was down, media hype was at its peak and a few of our projects in Crafers, Toorak Gardens and Glenelg all went on pause until a clear direction could be established of where this was all going to lead?

As a local Adelaide family owned and operated small to medium building company in South Australia, we are fortunate to have small projects to keep our tradies busy while some of the larger ones slowed.  We managed to keep our plumbers, brickies, cabinet makers, electricians, tilers and carpenters all busy with bathroom renovations, kitchen make overs and huge renovation which was well under way in Tusmore.  The interaction all changed a little with social distancing, check ins and other various hygiene practises implemented, but all in all the building processes still ticked along well.

 

a builder working on a house

 

Government Stimulus Package

As we have touched on previously in one of early blog posts the government introduced the $25,000 stimulus package back in June 2020 and anticipated 27,000 households would apply for the grant which would encourage an up take in the slowing building industry.

As we currently speak 88,264 applications have been made for the government grant and this accounts for $2.075bn in grants if they are all successful.

As you would expect consumer confidence was back up and there was a sigh of relief that just maybe we can all get through this in the building industry.  Many new home builders saw a huge increase in the number of new homes which are going to be built in 2021 and many small to medium builders such as Mayfair Building Group saw an increase in small home renovations and additions.  The key was meeting various deadlines such as approvals, commencement dates and completion dates in order to lock in the government grant, the race was on!

A Spanner In The Works!

So here we all are early 2020 thinking how is this possible a virus no one knows very much about is causing such an upheaval around the globe and we are all trying to forecast the future.  Well fast forward to March 2021 and we now have another problem which the Adelaide building and renovation market is facing, no materials!

No materials, how has this happened?  As you may remember me mentioning earlier in this article many manufacturers slowed down processing and manufacturing, a lot of materials like tiles, stone bench tops, kitchen range hoods, reinforcement steel for concrete slabs and bathroom renovation fixtures are still stuck offshore and delivery dates are still not confirmed.

Other items such as timber is currently seeing many Adelaide renovations gradually slowing down.  Many large home builders are currently being preferred for supply of structural timber due to there huge buying power and massive orders that were placed at the start of the government stimulus announcement.  Whereas other smaller builders are finding it hard to get structural timer for their projects.  Items such as 90 x 35 and 90 x 45 timbers are still available for top and bottom plates, stud walls and noggings.  Many timber manufacturers will not commit to delivery dates at this stage for their products, so watch this space.

The Future Of 2021 In The Adelaide Building Market

Unfortunately, we are already hearing stories of some smaller building firms starting to run behind schedule and a growing pressure being placed upon them from their clients to keep up with project milestones.  Will this force the closure of these building companies?  We hope not, but time will tell.

What will be next?  A shortage in dry wall materials, steel and insulation?  Perhaps as we have already seen the first stages of the building phase already struggling.  Although many builders will see huge benefits from the government stimulus package some will not be as fortunate due material shortages which is a real shame.

Our projects which I mentioned at the start in Crafers, Glenelg and Toorak Gardens have just about been completed with final hand overs anticipated to be in April this year.

If you are looking at doing a kitchen renovation or a bathroom renovation this year in 2021 please get in contact as we still have spots available for mid to late this year across Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills of South Australia.

kitchen rangehood

Selecting The Best Rangehood For Your Kitchen Renovation

A kitchen has always been a big part of any home and is typically a room which will show case a homes value. It’s not unusual to hear that someone has spent a minimum of $20,000 on a kitchen renovation and upwards to $85,000 or maybe even more depending on the appliances selected.

Kitchen Renovation Decisions

Mayfair Building Group have been helping clients for many years to renovate their kitchens across all of Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills. The entire process is handled in house under the one umbrella allowing for fast and high-end finishes. A typical kitchen renovation can take as little as a few days through to a few weeks depending on door styles and bench top
selections.

In a recently completed project at Stirling in the Adelaide Hills a customer of ours had a huge kitchen renovation completed. The entire original kitchen was removed to allow for new internal building works to be performed prior to the new kitchen being installed. This was a huge renovation and went for a little over a month.

Amongst many of the decisions which were made one was very carefully looked into. What rangehood should we use? Its common feedback we get from our clients when choosing appliances that the rangehood never removes the smell from the room and they are very noisy. In the case of choosing a rangehood the more you pay the better product you will receive.

Rangehood Features

In the information below we will go through some key points to look at and what they affect:

  • Brand: Does the name matter? What we have found that higher end known brands such as Smeg, Miele and Qasair will deliver a better product but at a much higher price. So, depending on your level of cooking intended these may not be worth the extra thousands of dollars unless you’re planning on cooking up a storm every night. The mid-level rangehoods are just as good for everyday domestic cooking from manufacturers such as Bosch, Robinhood and Euro Appliances. The budget for the project will most likely determine the brand.

 

  • Ducting: Is it important to vent the rangehood to atmosphere? It is not critical but it’s a better job to vent to atmosphere. Rangehoods can be installed with carbon filters so no venting is required, but once again venting to atmosphere is the best solution. We have seen some rangehoods vented into large ceilings, but this a bit of a short and you will end up smelling the extracted fumes throughout other rooms in the house. At the top end of the scale, you will find Qasair using hard metal ducting which will need to be installed in the very early stages of a renovation and this will provide with the quietist possible removal of fumes from a kitchen.

 

  • Location: Today with many of our clients opting for island bench cooktops the location of the rangehood is critical. It is because of these new choices for the cooking top that many manufacturers have started designed very architecturally designed rangehoods to create a nice centre piece for the kitchen. Manufacturers such as Beko, Westinghouse, Omega, Euromaid and Blanco have a wide range of options and have a good hold on the market for island rangehoods. Many of clients are also choosing to have the entire rangehood built into the joinery so it is not seen, typically when higher end doors are selected from the Shaker range. Regardless of the location careful planning is required to ensure the electrical supply is put in the right location and any supporting structural members are installed prior to gyprock lining of the walls.

 

  • Size: Does the size of the rangehood matter? Once again, the question needs to be asked about how much cooking is planned and how big the appliance is? Many manufacturers offer different styles with the occasionally larger motor. In the Smeg, Miele and Qasair range they are catering for larger kitchens with big appliance such as 900mm freestanding ovens with wok burners etc. In these ranges you can select to have dual motors all on various speed options. As previously touched on these fancy variables will alter the price significantly.

Selecting The Rangehood

In our recently completed kitchen renovation in Stirling our client selected the Qasair NDCH120L2B120cm Undermount Executive Under Cupboard Rangehood. This unit has dual motors and variable light modes. The ducting was installed using hard metal ducts and vents to atmosphere via controlled air vent which stops back draft.

The total installation would be approximately 1 full day for 2 people. This particular model retails for $2,950 prior to installation. When you then take installation into account its likely to be a total of $6,000 for the rangehood part of the project, it is for this reason many people do not worry about going to such extremes and the funds to other parts of the project.

At Mayfair Building Group we tailor the project to suit your budget. If you want a high-end luxury kitchen renovation, we can help you and if you want a simple low cost make over, we can help you. No matter what you want done with your kitchen we can help make your project possible. Speak to us today about making your centre piece of your home wonderful again.

extend your home in South Australia

Looking To Extend Your Home? – What You Need To Know

Whether your family is growing, the grandparents are moving in, you want to add value to your Adelaide home before selling, or your existing space appears to be shrinking, home extensions can be the perfect solution for your increasing need for space. But, there’s more to a successful home extension than a handful of cash in the bank. To do the job properly, and to capitalise on the dollars you spend, there are a few things you need to be aware of.

Home Extension Budget

Carefully consider how much you have to spend. An extension typically costs more per square metre than new homes in Adelaide, because there’s usually a need to demolish surrounding walls, reinforce foundations and restore the existing structure.

Set aside how much you’re willing to spend and start to gather quotes from reputable builders. Ask your builder if they’d be willing to agree on a fixed price for the extension. A fixed price will alleviate any anxiety as the project progresses and budgets are blown out.

You should also consider if you’ll need to hire an architect and electrician as well as a builder. Factor this in, in addition to your materials, decorations and furnishings.

Finally, think with your head, not with your heart! Budgets can get out of hand when you make decisions based on what you like, not what you can afford. While you love the idea of bulkheads and LED lighting, your budget might not allow for it.

Purpose

Ask yourself: What will my new space be used for? Knowing the purpose of the area is just as important as knowing how much you have to spend, whether it’s a spare bedroom, a studio, hobby room or home theatre. Have a clear idea of the purpose of the room so that you can select materials, decorations and furniture to suit.

You should also consider the floor space needed for the room. A home cinema, for instance, will need more floor space than a child’s nursery. A home office will require less space than a gym. Not getting the dimensions of the floor space correct means you could end up with a room that’s either too big or too small.

Lead time

This a tricky one. Are you planning to have your new entertaining area for Christmas? Or perhaps you want to finish building before the arrival of your new family member. Managing your own expectations on how long the construction will likely take can save some disappointment down the line.

An ongoing renovation can also be disruptive to everyday life, especially if like many others in Adelaide in recent months you work from home. If the addition is large enough it requires you to move out of your home, you might need to find a rental property to live in for the duration of the renovation, which could pose as a significant additional expense.

In addition to the above, you’ll likely have to pay more in labour time if your project takes longer than expected. Keep this in mind and factor in the likelihood of this in your budget.

Design

Many homeowners believe an extension must match the windows, door frames, facade and eaves of the existing house, which is certainly not the case.

Extensions are an excellent opportunity to show off your creative flair – there’s no rulebook for how and why you do that. Consider changing things up a bit. For instance, a period style house may look striking with a modern extension. A contemporary home might stand out with classic features. As long as the overall concept ties in nicely with the existing home, you’ll achieve a successful result.

Insurance

What does your home insurance cover, and what will it not include in the event of damage? Many policies will not cover the construction of your extension nor the finished product. If this is the case, you’ll need to upgrade your existing policy or shop around for a new one.

Ensure your selected builder has the relevant cover for damage and injury. A good builder will have set the right foundations in the unlikely event of an at-fault error. If they don’t, consider purchasing construction insurance to cover you for any loss or injury during the build. You’ll also be covered if a builder walks out on your unfinished home extension – an unlikely result but one that’s far from ideal!

To find out how Mayfair protects our clients with insurance, call us today.

Neighbours

We all want to get along with the people who we live close to. While they shouldn’t govern your home renovation plans, you should consider how your proposed designs will affect things such as their outlook and natural sunlight.

We recommend you involve your neighbours in the design process early on, so you can troubleshoot any issues well before it’s too late. The last thing you need is a formal complaint submitted against you before construction has even begun.

Ultimately, even if you don’t involve them in the process, they will have access to your plans before they’re submitted for approval and are legally allowed to object them if there are one or more aspects they don’t like.

Planning for a home extension for your Adelaide home is exciting, but if you don’t practice due diligence before embarking on the design process, you could run into complications when you need them the least. Always ensure you act lawfully and plan well in advance, and you’ll end up with a result you love.

Mayfair is a family-owned and operated construction company with over 15(?) years experience in high-quality home extensions, home improvements and kitchen renovations in South Australia. Contact us today for a free quote to find out how we can make your home extension dreams come true.

eligibility for homebuilder grant sa

How South Australian Residents Can Benefit From The HomeBuilder Grant

Recently, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a $25,000 stimulus grant for eligible owner-occupiers who wish to build a new home or substantially renovate an existing dwelling. The package was introduced as part of the Federal government’s economic response as a result of Coronavirus.

This tax-free grant has been introduced to stimulate the construction sector and ease lull periods in recent months due to Coronavirus and has been welcomed by many in the industry with open arms.

But, what are the requirements and are you eligible for the grant? We’ve put together a list of questions we’re being asked to help our customers identify if they’re eligible and how they can access it.

what is the eligibility for a homebuilders grant

Am I eligible for the HomeBuilder Grant?

In summary, you must live in the house you’re building or substantially renovating in addition to the following criteria.

Other eligibility requirements include:

  • You’re an Australian citizen of 18 years old and over.
  • You are an individual. You can’t access the grant through a trust.
  • You earn less than $125,000 per year for individual applicants and less than $200,000 combined per couple (based on 2018-19FY or later).
  • You have to spend between $150 000 and $750,000 on a renovation for a house worth less than $1.5 million.
  • You wish to build a new home with a value of less than $750,000, including land value.

It’s important to note that this tax-free grant applies to all building types (houses, off the plan, land packages, houses and apartments) and all owner-occupiers, not just first-home buyers. Investors are not eligible for the HomeBuilders Grant.

What builders can I use for the HomeBuilders Grant?

Your builder must be registered and fully licensed according to South Australian law.

As is the case in ordinary circumstances, you must spend some time doing your research. Only consider builders with a proven track record and good reputation, so you know you’re protecting your investment.

What if I own the land I want to build on but haven’t yet signed a contract with a builder?

If you own a property, whether it’s an apartment or a house, and you knock that apartment down to rebuild, this will be considered a substantial renovation. Therefore, your project must fall within the price bracket of $150,000 to $750,000 and under the combined land/house value of $1. 5 million.

Regardless of when you bought the land, and you choose to build a new home, the total combined land/build value can’t be more than $750,000.

When can I access my HomeBuilder grant?

To apply for your HomeBuilder grant, you must enter into a building contract between June 4th and December 31st of this year, with construction starting within three months of the contract date.

With the decision-making process being lengthy and council approval taking time, we recommend starting the process as soon as possible, to avoid missing out.

What documents do I need to have available when applying?

To support your application, you’ll need to provide the following documentation:

  • Official proof of identification
  • A signed and dated contract between you and your licensed builder
  • A copy of their South Australian registration or license
  • An official copy of your 2018-19FY (or later) tax return proving you’re under the income cap.
  • Any supporting documentation such as approvals, occupation certificates and proof of land value.

Although this grant is a federal government-led initiative, the South Australian government will be handling notifications. If you’re unsuccessful and still believe you’re eligible, you can contact the relevant dispute resolution body to have it appealed.

Will the South Australian government be adding to the package for South Australian residents?

Unlike some state and territory governments, the South Australian government have announced they will be not adding to the $25,000 HomeBuilder package for its residents, or abolishing stamp duty. They’ve, however, expressed more support will be available to SA residents in the coming weeks.

Currently, the SA government offers $15,000 for property buyers who build a new home (valued at less than $575,000). Details on this pre-existing grant can be found here. With the two grants mentioned above combined, first home buyers can save up to $40,000 on their first home (conditions apply), making now a better time than ever to build.

In addition to the above, the South Australian government will not be making any adjustments to the off-the-plan stamp duty concession, which is valued at $21,330 on houses with a value of less than $500,000.

Refer to your state and territory concessions here.

For more information on how to apply for the HomeBuilder grant, or to find out how Mayfair Plumbing & Gasfitting can assist, please contact us today.

luxury kitchen area

Your Choice In Kitchen Benchtops

As one of the most used surfaces in the house, you want to ensure your kitchen benchtops are eye-catching and durable.

Whether you are choosing benchtops for your new Adelaide home, or you’re looking to breathe life into an existing kitchen, the choice of material and design is important to complement the look and feel of the home and homeowners.

Below, we have put together some of the most attractive and affordable benchtop options:

Stainless Steel Bench Tops

Is your style modern and sleek? Stainless steel kitchen benchtops can add the ‘cool’ factor to your Adelaide home in more ways than one.

Not only do their polished surfaces look modern and clean, but stainless steel benchtops are also non-porous and resistant to heat, rust, and staining. Your sink, your splashback — even your island benchtop in your kitchen — can all flow seamlessly and turn your kitchen into a modern work of engineered art.

Stainless steel benchtops are easy to maintain and last years but can be easily scratched or dented. They are generally not a cheap option and can cost more than other materials, especially if you go for a higher-grade metal that is more scratch-resistant.

However, if you want a bold alternative that can please the eyes, then stainless steel kitchen benchtops are the right choice for you.

Timber

Timber is a timeless kitchen benchtop option. Whether your vibe is country, federation, or you simply like to mix modern sleekness with naturally rustic elements, this could be the perfect benchtop solution. With multiple kinds of wood and hues to choose from, the nicks and whorls of a timber top adds a homely appeal.

Timber brings warmth to communal spaces such as kitchens, quite striking when contrasted against neutral or cold design elements such as white tiles or stainless steel appliances.

While recycled wood and bamboo can be cost-effective solutions, timber benchtops for kitchens require upkeep, as you will often need to re-sand the top and re-varnish it with a food-safe oil or polyurethane top coating.

Marble

This stunning stone calls to mind European sophistication and suits Adelaide homeowners that want a polished, classic-looking kitchen benchtop.

Marble brightens the look of any kitchen and doesn’t conduct heat, making it perfect during those hot Adelaide summers. However, marble is also a softer stone and naturally porous, meaning that it is susceptible to scratches and markings, especially with red wine and other acidic products, unless sealed regularly.

Marble is available in three different finishes:

  • Polished: for a timeless look that can enhance the natural characters of the stone, but also make it prone to staining;
  • Honed: a less glossy finish that can help hide scratches but can also slightly dull the natural features of the stone;
  • Leathered: giving your marble stone benchtops a more textured appearance, but also making it more vulnerable to staining.

Marble is not a cheap material, particularly when choosing rarer colours, but with the right care, a marble stone top can be a low-maintenance solution that will last for years.

Granite

With its attractive glimmering grains, granite stone benchtops provide a touch of luxury for homeowners who want to add a show-and-tell element to their design — crystallised elegance that offers the perfect balance to highly modern kitchens.

Like marble, granite is a naturally porous stone and heat resistant, but is also a harder substance and therefore resilient against stains. It is also antibacterial and can come in a range of colours and looks.

Granite is a very expensive, quality material, and depending on the thickness you wish for your kitchen benchtops, can set you back a hefty price. Of course, when taking into account its durability and longevity, as well as its unique beauty, it is easy to see why granite is the go-to for homeowners who to add richness and value to their homes.

Engineered/Composite stone

A popular choice for many Adelaide first home buyers today, this mid-range cost option is ideal for anyone who wants a more affordable alternative to natural stone materials without compromising on quality, and with a similar look and feel.

Engineered stone is denser than natural stone and has no porosity, meaning that it is resistant to scratching, staining, and free from requiring ongoing maintenance over time. While it may not hold the raw appeal of marble or granite, with stone benchtops you can choose from a large range of hues to complement your design palette, and decide between a solid colour or more visually dynamic options that mimic natural stone with flecks, veins, and crystal stone elements.

Laminate

Available in an amazing variety of styles and colours, today laminate has become the ideal solution for Adelaide homeowners who want the look of higher-end materials in their kitchens, but also want to please their wallets.

Though not as durable as other options (it may need replacing in time), and vulnerable to cuts and heat, laminate kitchen benchtops are the perfect blend of looks and affordability. If you choose a high-pressure laminate, you will find that it’s also resistant to scratches and stains, and could last years with the right care.

Look for post-formed laminate that is a little thinner and flexible to eliminate joins between edges, reducing the risk of laminate peeling, and giving your kitchen a seamless look, particularly if choosing a laminate imitating natural stone.

Want more information on how to choose the perfect benchtop for your kitchen?

Are you thinking of upgrading your existing kitchen, or looking for the right kitchen benchtop for your new home? Undecided on which option best suits your price range? Contact one of our available Adelaide based Mayfair Building Group team today, who will help you find the perfect solution and provide an obligation free quote.

tiling in a kitchen

How To Choose Tiles For Your Kitchen Or Laundry

Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom, kitchen renovation or laundry is vital to rounding off the overall look and feel of the room. The perfect tile can transform an ordinary room into a luxurious highlight of the house. In kitchens, wall tiles protect work and cooking spaces from damage. In bathrooms and laundries, tiles give added security from water damage and leakages.

If your bathroom, kitchen or laundry needs a bit of a facelift, or you’re building a new home, here’s how you can ensure you choose the right tile for the space.

 

bathroom tiles adelaide

Proportion

You might opt to mix things up and choose various tiles of differing shapes and sizes, which can look great if chosen well. But, a standard error some homeowners make is choosing a few tiles that alone look pleasing, but disproportionate when combined in the one room.

The tiles you choose should look great together and alone. For instance, if you’re using a 20cm sized tile on the wall, the dimensions of all other tiles should be in multiples of 20 so that they marry up evenly along the grout lines.

Profile

It’s important to know that the size of the room in question plays a significant role when deciding the size and shape of the tile.

Larger tiles tend to work well in large rooms, while smaller rooms suit smaller profiles. If the tile you choose is too large for the room, it can make the space feel a lot smaller than it already is. On the other hand, small tiles in large rooms can create that “wow” factor when chosen well, but it comes down to the overall aesthetic design of the room.

When choosing tiles for your bathroom or kitchen, be mindful of how each tile interacts with other elements of the room – the basin, drains & floor grates, shower screens. By choosing a larger format, will you be required to perform more cuts? How will the tile you’re considering match up to the window frames? By asking yourself questions like this, you’ll be able to find the right shape and size of the tile that balances out the room.

Grout

Grout lines tend to get overlooked for the more obvious tile itself. How will the tile look when they’re laid with grout? It’s hard to tell when you’re browsing through catalogues or in the showroom.

Yes, a collage of tiny circular tiles might look cool on their own, but you need to try and imagine what these will look like in a room and bordered by grout lines. It could be that the tiles will clutter a room and make it feel smaller.

Before making a decision, ask the sales staff if there is an option to see the tile in a recent installation.

Colour

Your options for tiling are virtually endless, and innovations are seeing a range of adventurous and creative tiling options frequently popping up in supplier catalogues.

Make sure the colour of the tile you pick complements the design and colours of the new kitchen, bathroom or laundry. If you’re going for copper fittings, then try and keep colours in the room as neutral as possible. If you’re going for a more industrial design, you might opt for a darker colour with minimal patterns.

To make sure your new room will stand the test of time from a design perspective, choose tiles that are neutral in colour, or ones that even have a natural sandstone finish. For smaller galley kitchens and powder rooms, try to use a tile that’s the same colour and size on the floors and ceilings.

Sunlight

If your room is filled with natural sunlight, then you can afford to go for a darker tile. If the room has no windows and relies on artificial light to brighten it, your best bet is choosing a tile that’s a lighter shade, like a beige or off-white. Lighter colours will make an internal kitchen or bathroom feel brighter and more spacious.

If your bathroom or kitchen has a lot of natural sunlight pouring in, then you also need to be careful that the tiles you choose don’t have a high-gloss finish. Gloss finishes can create a glare which isn’t comfortable on the eye. Go for a semi-gloss or matte finish instead.

Are you renovating your existing kitchen, laundry or bathroom, or building a new home? Choosing the right tiles is crucial to the success of the project. Speak to someone from our team at Mayfair Building Group about how we can assist in choosing the perfect tiles for your project.

 

 

flood damage

How To Approach A Water Damage Restoration Project

Any Australian homeowner – especially in South Australia – will tell you that our recent rain is a welcome change from a dreadful bushfire season and a decade of continual drought.

Water tanks are full to the brim, your backyard grass is noticeably greener, and skies are at last blue again.

But what happens when torrential rain leads to flooding in your home, leaks in your roof, on your newly laid carpet and clogs in your drain pipes?

The reality is that water damage may have been developing for years before the recent rain we’ve had. It just may have taken a downpour to make it apparent.

 

restore and repair water damaged floor

Common Causes Of Water Damage In Your Home

If you’ve recently had a bout of torrential rain, like most parts of South Australia have had, you’ll do anything to keep your home watertight. A leak or flood might come in the form of a stain across the ceiling or down the wall, or a noticeable and monotonous trickle of water in the kitchen that you can’t seem to get rid of.

Whether your home is two years old or 20, you’ll inevitably come into contact with leaks and minor floods. There are a number of reasons for this.

Some include:

Clogged gutters: Have you been neglecting to clean out the muddy layer of leaves and debris that have settled in your gutters? Not only can built-up debris be a fire hazard on dry, hot days, but without a clear path, water has no place to go. When it overflows, it can get into nooks and crannies in your roof, and potentially cause a leakage.

Ground floor flooding: The effect of flooding on your ground floor depends on a couple of factors; volume and duration. And sometimes there’s no way around it. When there’s heavy rain, water damage to certain structural parts of your home becomes vulnerable.

Exterior wall damage: If your gutters aren’t clear, water overflow will inevitably occur. When water overflows from roofing gutters, it will poor down exterior walls causing erosion of outer wall material.

Drainage issues: If yards aren’t exposed to proper drainage routes then excessive water build-ups will cause your foundations and exterior walls to become brittle.

The age of your roof: An old and poorly maintained roof will naturally be more likely to have a few broken or missing roof tiles. And, while roof tiles don’t rust, where there’s a valley in your roof, there’s an inviting spot for water to puddle. If your roof is a couple of decades old, its valleys will most likely be enforced with galvanized metal which can rust. Combine a valley with gum leaves and torrential rain, and you have a recipe for a leak.

Broken or missing tiles and shingles: They can be small, or they can be big, but if there is a hole in your tile or a loose shingle on your roof, then there’s the potential for water to sneak in and cause a rotting, leaky roof.

Skylights and roof vents: The second a hole is cut out of a roof for a skylight, it’s vulnerable to a roof leak. Cracked vents, poor sealing jobs, and carelessly installed skylights can also be causes of roof leaks.

So You’re Experiencing Water Damage – What To Do?

Step 1) Document the issue immediately. Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, it’s a good idea to keep photo or video documentation of the damage that’s occurred. This will help you track the rate of damage and assist your landlord or plumber in analyzing the speed and extent of the spread of the leak, clog or flood. It will also remind you to be on top of your roof maintenance!

Step 2) Call in the experts. All you need to do is Google “DIY solution to residential water damage” to find a shoddy solution to what can be a very complicated issue. Plywood, plastic, and tar should not be considered as trustworthy materials for home restoration projects.

Not only does this have the potential to create further damage if you don’t have the proper training or tools, but it also poses a serious danger for DIYers. It’s best to call in skilled plumbers, who can help assess and repair your damage at a professional level.

Besides, by the time you have seen the water stain on your ceiling, or seen the puddle on your floorboards, it’s a good bet that the problem needs professional intervention.

The truth is, only trusted professionals can fix complicated water damage issues and repairs with confidence.

A roof plumber can:

  • Find the dreaded root of the problem
  • Install metal roofing and rainwater goods if needed.
  • Inspect your roof flashing, gutters and walls and repair them they’re rusted or warped.
  • Check your gutters and downpipes.
  • Examine and repair metallic roof and wall claddings.
  • Evaluate if any further damage to your ceiling has occurred.
  • Check your plumbing to make sure there’s no clogs.
  • Help with the repair of any plaster damage or refer you to a certified plasterer.
  • Assess if there are mold or mildew issues.
  • Provide useful temporary solutions if required, while repairs are being carried out.

Mayfair Building Group are on call 24/7 and service a range of suburbs and outer regions in Adelaide, so you know there are always handy professionals available on-call and close-by.

Not only will Mayfair Building Group help with inspecting and repairing the damage, but we’ll also provide you with those helpful maintenance tips to prevent a future occurrence.

Talk to a trained professional at Mayfair today, whether it is to save you amid peril, or for any construction, building or renovation project issues you’re experiencing.

Sometimes, leaving it in the hands of professionals is the best thing you can do, and can save you money in the long run.

get an approval for a granny flat in South Australia

What You Need To Know About Building A Granny Flat In South Australia

Granny flats – the newest phenomenon for home additions and renovations in South Australia. These handy home additions can offer homeowners a valuable subsidy to mortgages, improve the resale value of their homes or even provide them with an affordable solution to stay close to dependent family members.

UPDATE: Please also read this media release on Granny Flat reforms in South Australia:

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/media-release167

Benefits Of Building A Granny Flat

But, the benefits of granny flats don’t just stop there. An additional space
can offer homeowners:

  • A home office just metres away from their usual living space;
  • A spare guest room for friends and visitors;
  • An art/yoga studio;
  • A home gymnasium;
  • A dance studio;

The demand for granny flats has grown notably in recent years, as house prices reach record heights and younger generations are increasingly being pushed out of the housing market. They provide the perfect stepping stone for young adults who don’t yet have enough funds to buy or rent a place of their own but are at an age where they’re ready to become independent. Also see our article on the costs of building a granny flat.

Also see our article on current granny flat trends in Adelaide.

Australia is a big country, so it comes as no surprise that each state has its own set of laws when it comes to building granny flats on residential land. But, if you’re a South Australian homeowner and have thought about building a granny flat to provide you with a secondary income, we advise that you do some research.

design a granny flat

Image source: https://www.lifestylegrannyflats.com.au

Consideration When Designing & Building

We’ve provided you with a list below of all that you need to know when considering building a granny flat in your South Australian home.

1) It’s illegal in South Australia to build a granny flat for anyone but a “dependant”. Before we go any further, it’s worth noting that it’s illegal to rent out; residential granny flats to anyone besides a “dependant” or family member in South Australia.

South Australian councils only allow homeowners to build granny flats on their land, providing its use is solely to house immediate family members; be it, elderly parents/relatives or teenage children – strictly not as an investment property. In some very rare cases, there are ways to circumvent these laws, where the primary house on the block of land isn’t actually registered as your principal place of residence. Still, we strongly suggest speaking with a reputable legal team that deals specifically in this area before you take the risk.

2) Land restrictions play a big part in your eligibility To put it plainly, there are a specific set of rules and regulations you must meet to gain initial approval for your new granny flat construction.

Some land rules are as follows:

  • You must have at least 600m squared of adequate size and configuration in the area on which you wish to build on.
  • Your plans cannot exceed 60m squared or 70 metres above floor area of the main home (whichever has less surface area).
  • You need a minimum of 100m squared of outdoor space shared between all inhabitants of both the primary and secondary
    dwelling.
  • You’re able to provide enough on-site parking space for all residents, including one parking space allocated exclusively for occupants that inhabit the secondary dwelling.
  • You must ensure the design, exterior building materials and colours match and/or complement the primary dwelling.
  • Your granny flat cannot be standalone and must be attached to the primary dwelling.

In some cases, your plans may meet the above land regulations; however, they may be knocked back due to zoning requirements in your local district.

3) Every local council charge different yearly rates Another vital thing to identify before even getting some drafts designed is that some councils charge annual rates for granny flats while others don’t. Do your homework and make sure that whatever rate your local council charges, you’ll be able to afford them in the long run! Understand where your council sits, before taking the leap in planning and building a granny flat on your land.

4) Put an application forward to your local council. So, you’re a homeowner who wants to build a granny flat in South
Australia and you’ve ticked “yes” to the above boxes. Congratulations! You can move on to the next step.

Use A Certified Builder

Granny flats are considered “Home Developments” in South Australia and each local council requires you to submit your plans to a private certifier like Mayfair Building Group, to ensure your plans meet all the above “Development Plan” rules and restrictions.

In recent years, where house prices have soared, and the phenomenon of secondary housing has increased, Mayfair Building Group has become leading suppliers of granny flat construction in South Australia.

Whether you’re thinking ahead as your children reach an age of approaching independence or you want to provide your ageing relatives with a more enticing alternative to dependant living, we have the answers. To find out how we can get your granny flat construction certified and built 100 per cent hassle-free, contact our head office today.

You also be interested in our bathroom renovation services and kitchen renovation services.

new bathroom renovations

Bathroom Fixtures & Fittings – How To Make Your Bathroom Luxurious

Plush hand towels, marble flooring and mood lighting; there’s something special about swanning about an opulent bathroom that feels ultra-luxe, especially after a tiresome day at work. But without the right help, creating a spa-like space in your own home can be challenging to achieve. Which is why we’ve put together some handy tips and tricks of turning a simple room of purpose into a 5-star hotel spa that will leave a lasting impression, right down to the bathroom floor grates.

1. Lighting

Sick of your clinical, fluorescent lights that flicker half a dozen times before finally making up their mind? It might be time to revive your bathroom lighting. Consider backlighting your vanity mirror for even dispersion of light and to eliminate unflattering shadows. Or, swap out those dreary fluorescents with low-glow LEDs that hide beneath bulkhead alcoves, behind mirrors or under cabinetry. You’ll be amazed at the difference indirect lighting can have to your bathroom’s atmosphere.

2. Chrome

Particularly in bathrooms, finishes are everything. For a timeless mix of luxury and class, go against the modernist grind and opt for traditional chrome fixtures and fittings. Chrome blends practicality with elegance and chic. Traditional-style faucets, handrails and towel racks, combined with marble finishes and fluffy Egyptian cotton hand towels ensure a timeless feel that screams Ritz Carlton.

This chrome faucet blends well with a sleek and modern vanity design and reflects LED light well to give it a striking sheen.

3. Double sinks

Despite what tradition tells us, double sinks don’t have to be reserved for master en-suites. Providing you have space, having two sinks in one bathroom is not only practical, but it’s reminiscent of luxe mansions and high-end hotel suites.

For couples and families, it also means you don’t have to wait in line to get ready in often frantic before-school and work mornings. This white double sink bathroom vanity is paired with two large storage drawers beneath to help
minimize clutter and add symmetry to the bathroom’s overall design.

 

bathroom fixtures and fitting

 

Pair your double vanity sinks up with individual mirrors or install one large shared mirror to enhance the size of your room. Either way, a double sink bathroom can turn an ordinary space into one that’s refined, sophisticated and welcoming.

4. Mood sounds

Okay, this one might sound a little far-fetched but have you ever been welcomed by rain forest sounds in a five-star restaurant’s bathroom and felt immediately relaxed? Mood audio is a phenomenon yet to make its mark in the residential market, but it’s one that will surely set your bathroom apart from the rest. And, if you want to create a one-off, bespoke space, that’s unique and memorable, then mood sounds will give you just that.

Bathrooms are usually the last thing on a homeowners list when it comes to investing dollars into creating a mood-enhancing experience, but taking that extra step will help you achieve that spa-like atmosphere you’re going for.

Mayfair works with many suppliers who deliver state-of-the-art AV systems for bathrooms that have been designed to resist humidity and excess moisture. Just ask us about them!

5. Marble

Think about the most luxurious bathroom you’ve ever set foot in, and we’ll bet it had marble countertops or tiling. Once reserved for cash-plenty homeowners, marble is more accessible and affordable than ever before, with marble veneer products taking top place in the market over solid marbles alternatives. To make your bathroom feel bright, airy and large, we suggest going for a light coloured, less complicated marble finish. Team marble up with plush bath and hand towels for added extravagance.

This striking grey and white marble bathroom is contrasted nicely against bronze fixtures and crisp white countertops to make the room pop.

 

new bathroom renovations

Want to go that one step further? Ask us about underfloor heating beneath your marble tiling for total decadence!

6. Dressing tables

Ever fantasized about sitting in front of a dimly lit dressing table in an opulent bathroom slapping on aftershave or applying your makeup before a night on the town? Your fantasies could soon become a reality by installing your very own luxurious seated dressing table in your bathroom.

A cozy, functional and bright space can turn obsolete corners of your bathroom into practical and luxurious areas. A tasteful vanity dressing table also gives you the storage you need to eliminate cosmetic and toiletry clutter from countertops.

7. Rainfall Shower Heads

Whether you live in a 40 square foot studio in the East End or a country estate in the Adelaide Hills, one aspect of a bathroom that doesn’t discriminate when it comes to space is shower heads.

Investing in a chrome rainfall shower that has a filter to activate different pressures can turn your mundane before-work shower into a resort-like sensory experience. Keep things simple with a combined rainfall and handheld shower head combination like in the image below so that you can alternate between the two, according to your desired pressure. Having the handheld shower device also makes cleaning the recess easier!

 

new bathroom tiles

 

Have you got the floor space for a double shower? Why not indulge in “his and hers” rainfall shower for total indulgence. You’ll save the frustrating wait in the mornings and add an added level of symmetry and spaciousness.

Are you wanting to transform your tired bathroom into one of opulence and luxuriousness but don’t know how to get there? Regardless of budget, Mayfair Building Group are experts at transforming your dreams into tangible realities. Give us a call today!