Homes

AGEING GRACEFULLY: HOUSE DESIGNS WITH YOUR NEEDS IN MIND

If you’re building a home with specific ageing or disability needs in mind it’s exciting to know that whichever home design category you choose – livable, accessible, or adaptable (see below for in-depth definitions) – style and beauty never need to be compromised. This article outlines the definitions of each term in relation to Australian standards and then delves into the design elements which can be cleverly integrated into a customised home design to make it both architecturally exciting and accessible.

Livable, accessible, adaptable – what exactly do they mean?

According to the Australian Government’s Your Home website, which is an online space designed to inform and guide Australians interested in environmentally sustainable and accessible home design, there are three key names to get to know: the livable, accessible and adaptable house.

Livable house: based on the ideas of universal design (discussed in an earlier article: Livable, lovable homes for your retirement: Duplexes and Dual Occupancy), refers to homes which are designed to allow long-term living solutions without the need for specialised modifications. These homes are designed around the concept of inclusivity from the outset, as outlined in the Livable Housing Design Guidelines. Houses that fall into this category are designed to allow simple transitions depending on the needs of the residents – for example pram access for small children, zones for teenage getaways, ergonomic home offices and studios, wheelchair access for elderly or disabled residents, and considered lighting to cater for a senior resident’s weakening eyesight etc.

Accessible house: designs are homes designed to be accessible for all people, including those with higher care needs due to disability and/or injury. Because this type of design is highly specialised it is usually built to cater for a specific person. Accessible home designs may be modified to accommodate a person’s need for wheelchair access, including a stair lift and customised bathroom and kitchen designs. They may include modified or specialised fittings for individuals with varying degree of limb function and/or they may be designed to help people with severe visual impairments live at home without the need for additional assistance. 

Adaptable house: begins life as a livable house, but with one major design difference. Either it allows for future downsizing, a design feature primarily used for elderly residents, or accessibility modifications, such as a leaving a cavity in the home for the installation of an internal lift if the need arises. Typically, an adaptable home has been designed with the eventual aim of transitioning from a large single dwelling into two smaller ones, or attempts to minimise the costs of major future modifications that will be required by a disabled or senior resident. This generally requires customised floor plans that cater for this in the initial building stages.

Platinum, Gold, and Silver Australian Standards

Australian standards – Platinum, Gold and Silver standards – set the benchmarks that a build must meet to be deemed ‘accessible’. Here at Valley Homes we were privileged to build a range of custom designed livable home solutions. One of our favourites combined modifications including wheelchair access and an internal lift with sleek modern design aesthetics – see our gallery for more. All 178 dwelling Valley Homes constructed for Defence Housing Australia were built to comply with Silver level Australian standards. We are also set to build a Platinum Standard house later this year, which we will be sure to share with you as soon as it has been completed.

Live your way in style

When comparing an Australian standard compliant livable house and a standard home which has undergone accessibility modifications, the difference is how seamlessly the customisations are integrated into the overall design aesthetics. Unsightly safety rails in mismatching colours or retrofitted ramps are very common in older homes. Future planning for accessibility from the outset means the visual appeal of the home is never compromised. Beyond wider doorways this can include:

• • Step-free access into the home, plus shower. Being able to wheel a pram or manoeuvre a wheelchair easily in and around a home with simple ramp designs can make all the difference for home residents.
  • Lever-style handles and single-handed fittings. By paying attention to the types of door and cupboard handles, as well as the tapware you choose, day-to-day activities can be stylishly simplified.
  • Low maintenance landscaping, accessible gardens, and protected outdoor spaces. Ramps and smooth pathways to protected outdoor spaces with varying garden levels can improve accessibility.
• • Spacious kitchen and bathroom with under sink cavities. We all love a spacious kitchen and bathroom, but with the addition of lower benchtops and under-sink and bench cavities a person in a wheelchair or with limited mobility can easily cook and clean without the need for additional assistance.
  • Integrated lighting and non-slip flooring. For people with limited vision and/or mobility, carefully considered lighting design, as well as non-slip flooring, can improve independence and safety at home…all done with stylish pendant lights, trendy downlights and the latest styles in tiles and carpets.

We can customise our in-house designs or create a custom home just for you. Talk to us today.

by Super Admin

DREAM HOME TRENDS 2020

What will wow in 2020

Trying to predict future design trends is about as easy as knowing which of your new year’s resolutions you will actually end up sticking to. But it’s a lot of fun, gets the creative juices flowing, and can inspire some incredible homes – which is why we think looking forward to 2020 is definitely an exercise worth indulging in! So our team has pulled together some of the most exciting home styling, interior design and building inspirations, to help kick-start your home refresh plans for 2020.

The overarching trend – spaces that embrace nature (biophilia)

Biophilic design is all about creating connections to nature and it is a trend that incorporates interior design, external elements such as façades, and of course, all other homes details, which of course also includes landscaping too. It has been on the rise for a few years now and is set to take centre stage in 2020.

One of the UK’s sustainable architecture and interior design experts, @Oliver_Heath, is a huge advocate for biophilic design and his quick video Exploring Biophilic Design with Oliver Heath is a great introduction into the design trend that is all about harnessing natural light, using natural textures and surfaces, water design, and embracing views and greenery wherever possible. 

Nature inspired 2020 trends – available from our local suppliers

Some of our best-loved suppliers, such as Carpet Court, Valley Kitchens, PGH Bricks and Pavers, and Amber Tiles, are experts in bringing nature into your custom home designs. And here are a few ways they are doing it:

Timber and mixed material wall panels

Popular as feature walls such, behind bedheads, as well as along large living area walls in open plan living homes, timber wall panels are going to be in high demand in 2020. Carpet Court ready-made wall panels are a cost effective, versatile and simple way to add wall panel features to your 2020 home build. From vertical timber designs through to striking geometric patterns, or even smooth curves, this interior design trend is all about personalisation and embracing your own sense of style.

Terrazzo, timber, natural stone, and marble kitchens

Valley Kitchens’ wide variety of benchtop and cabinetry solutions mean greater connections can be made with nature, day-in-day-out, such as with the wide selection of timber and natural stone benchtops. Terrazzo is still growing in popularity for home styling and can be offset with timber for striking breakfast bar and kitchen worktop combination.

Outdoor and mixed living zones

Raw, rough and textured tiles, pavers, and bricks are increasingly used to create earthy, relaxed and inviting living spaces and gorgeous façades. As 2020 is set to celebrate the outdoors through DIY projects as well as to custom home designs, outdoor rooms are also on the rise. Incorporating fully appointed outdoor kitchens, entertainment units, and of course dining and lounges, custom fire pits and landscaped water features, outdoor rooms require carefully curated flooring tiles and expertly designed brickwork to seamlessly transition these rooms into indoor spaces.

More interior design trends and DIY home refresh solutions

Organic tones and textures: Whether it’s fixed features, such as floor and wall choices, through to décor and paint colours, there is an understated calm is created in spaces which embrace nature’s colour palette. Even small refurbishments and cosmetic improvements can integrate all living spaces in your home to create seamless transitions from one room to the next, giving your home a greater sense of space and cohesion.

Large scale art and floral wallpaper: As home builders, some of the 2020 trends in home styling and interior design are out of our scope of work. However, good early planning can mean that if your custom home dream is an expansive wall to hang your favourite piece of art or a floral wallpaper statement wall, we can design the floorplan that will provide you with those interior design opportunities, e.g. ceiling heights, window and door placements, and even lighting choices made with our in-house design team.

Velvet lounges, cushions and curtains: Velvet is a textural delight that oozes both comfort and luxury. Nothing sets off a sleek timber wall panel or a concrete benchtop or floor like this sensuous fabric. Best used as a statement piece, velvet can be added to your home through home styling choices such as lounges, cushions and even curtains. And again, while our task is floor plans and construction, if you know what design choices you are likely to make, we can help guide you through choosing the right floor, wall and ceiling finishes that will help bring them all together.

Talk to us about embracing what’s new in 2020 for your custom home design!

Tell us what you want us to write about in 2020!

While clients have told us our team is pretty good at writing the types of articles they want to read, we understand that there are still many topics we haven’t covered, and some of those might be the ones you are eager to read about. So please tell us. Simply drop us line or speak to one of our team and just ask, “Can you please put some information together about…” and we’ll schedule it in. It’s that simple.

by Super Admin

SELECTING THE RIGHT BUILDER FOR YOUR ARCHITECTURAL PLANS

When building a personalised, architecturally designed dream home, a lot of focus might be placed on finding the right architect or even draftsman to put your big ideas onto paper. But finding the right builder is just as important, if not more so.

The builder will often dictate the timeline and building schedule. They’ll source many, if not all of the materials, which can greatly impact the overall house cost. Plus, the builder does what they do best, build house plans. This means, the quality of their workmanship is going to heavily influence whether your home will be defined as an architectural masterpiece or a money pit of misadventure. How do you select your ideal builder though? Let’s find out…

RESEARCH

Sometimes the most obvious answers are the best. Yes, research is going to be your best friend throughout the entire house design and build process, especially if this will be your first foray into the world of house designs, architects and builders, and house cost budgets. Every single step of the building process will require some level of research. Below is our list of main research milestones that will lead to selecting the right builder for your dream home:

Research: overall budget and scope of project

Before getting swept up in the excitement of it all, talk to your bank or financial advisor about establishing a realistic budget. Take into account your savings, income and borrowing capacity. You may already have an idea of land prices in your area, but you also need to account for the architectural drawings and pricing, as well as building costs. So get some concrete prices outlining your maximum spend, and realistic repayments. You will return to these figures repeatedly throughout the planning and building phases, so make sure they are as accurate as possible.

Research: land options

Now with your overall budget in hand, break it down to three sections: land, architect and build. You may need to tweak the respective allocations of budget during the process, but dividing your funds like this can help keep aspects of the project that may blowout in-check. The next main hurdle is acquiring land if you haven’t already. Some people opt to go to an architect before the land has been secured to get an idea of potential house designs, and this is entirely up to you. Doing this can help if you are having difficulties envisioning the land potential, but it has its downsides too. Such as the land selling and increased architect fees due to additional time spent on your project.

Research: council regulations and requirements

If using a local architect, and indeed builder, they will have a very good idea of council requirements and this may remove this research burden. However, having an idea of what is legally possible before can streamline later processes and make sure your expectations of what can be achieved are realistic.

Research: architecture that appeals to you

AND

Research: architects that have a reputation that aligns with your design ambitions

These two research points work hand-in-hand. While researching your preferred home designs and local architects, and even browsing dream homes plans and pricing on websites or magazines, log what you like. Creating a spreadsheet or jotting notes down in a book can help you realise what features are most important to you and it will start to direct you towards the architect that fits in with your own aesthetics.

Research: builders who have worked with your architect previously

Many experienced architects will already have established relationships with local builders and a working rapport can definitely benefit your build. Especially as good working relationships may help streamline a few processes along the way, which generally equates to potential savings. However, any professional architect will be able to relay their plans to any reputable builder with ease.

Research: builders who are known for great projects

You need to feel 100% comfortable that your builder is up to the task. So, if an architect or draftsman’s recommendation doesn’t feel quite right or they don’t have one, shop your house plans around. Reputation is a key indicator of performance in the building industry, as is an extensive portfolio, a reliable team, the ability to provide upfront quotes and costs, and site managers that keep you informed throughout the entire project. A little bit of legwork here to research local builders can mean all the difference when it’s time to receive your front door keys.

Valley Homes can build your dream home

You can research our past and current projects, hear from our previous clients, and browse our list of suppliers and local partners, right here on our website. And of course, you can speak to us directly too.

by Super Admin

KNOCKDOWN-REBUILD OR RENOVATE?

It’s probably no surprise that Valley Homes would recommend a knockdown rebuild over a renovation 90% of the time. After all, building homes in and around Newcastle is what we do, and we have a team of knock down and rebuild specialists who have years of experience doing just that. But there is much more to it than building being our business…

When it comes to answering the question – knockdown vs renovate – sometimes the house in question should be preserved. It may have historical relevance, tell unique tales of the suburb, or even be part of Australian culture. In such cases it would be a shame to lose that part of our collective story, which is why councils have regulations requiring approvals before any builder can go ahead with any major construction on a home. But if you have the all clear to renovate or detonate then you might need to read on, because we are about to state our case for a knockdown rebuild with construction facts that are hard to ignore.

Renovations can be disruptive

Sure, it is true that any rebuild or renovation will impact on your life while the build is in progress. But one of the most common reasons people consider a renovation over a rebuild is that they can save money by living in the home while it is being renovated. The reality is, larger renovations tend to stretch over a much longer period of time than a rebuild, which can negatively impact your lifestyle if you are living in the home throughout. This is largely due to the fact the home owner may be responsible for scheduling trades and sourcing materials in and amongst usual weekly work routines, quite often needing to also save for the costs during the process, which means that your life may be dominated by the changes to your home for a much longer period of time.

Cost to knockdown and rebuild home

However, if you are able to outsource to an experienced renovation builder to take care of project management and trades for you, and you already have the funds available, then a renovation might be looking good. But, this brings us to our next point of discussion – cost. The truth is, most of the time the cost to knockdown and rebuild home is cheaper than a full renovation. Why is that? With a rebuild you can optimise construction materials and base designs by opting to build with a reputable knock down rebuild builder. In the case of a rebuild additional savings can be made because you don’t need to match materials with pre-existing structures, and you don’t need to commission a bespoke property architectural design.

Less maintenance with new

Speaking of architects, another common outcome of a renovation is that the build generally doesn’t address the entire structure of the home – most renovation agreements are to add extensions or additional floors. In which case, yes, you will have new sections of the home with entirely new elements that will last for many years to come, but you also still have the existing structural elements that may require ongoing maintenance.

So, at the end of the day, a knockdown rebuild is a fresh start. Your ongoing maintenance bills are going to be minimised.

Rebuilds and real estate advice

With fresh starts, such as a knock down, you might also attract better sale figures when and if you choose to move on. This is where it might pay to speak to real estate agents in your surrounding suburbs and run some figures. We suggest getting an evaluation on your property as it currently stands, a value estimate after the renovation has been completed, and a sale estimate of a brand new home. If your quotes for a renovation are on par or similar to a full knock down and rebuild project, but the sale figures are in favour of a new build, it can be hard to argue with a convincing bottom-line.

Future proof your knockdown rebuild with us

Plus, with a rebuild you have the options to do things that weren’t really a consideration when your original home was built. For example, solar passive design and or the choice to land renovate, which might alter the position of the home on the block, are modern approaches to home building you could take advantage of. Our team has so many knockdown rebuild ideas and experiences we would love to share, so please get in touch if you’re in the Newcastle or surrounding suburbs to discuss your property’s potential

by Super Admin

PROJECT HOMES VS CUSTOM DESIGNED HOMES

When looking to build a new home there are many options available. Each option has their pros and cons, yet sometimes it can be difficult to determine what type of build will best suit your overall needs.

In Australia, the two most commonly selected building options are custom home designs and project homes, also known as off-the-plan homes. For freestanding, single dwellings, an architecturally designed build is also popular, but the uptake isn’t nearly as large as the first two categories. This makes project homes and custom home designs a great starting point to understand your new house options.

Project homes

Are built from existing plans by a builder who has negotiated bulk prices for their local contractors and materials, making the overall build competitively priced and economical.

Project homes utilise a suite of professionally designed house plans drawn up by a draftsperson. For example, Valley Homes currently has 18 floor plans to choose from, with prices starting from $242K for a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 car, single level home, through to expansive and luxurious acreages and multi-storey homes.

A project home builder makes savings on new house plans by buying large quantities of materials and negotiating discounted labour rates. Those savings are then passed on to the client – making project homes one of the most cost effective house designs to build. This means quality inclusions, such as air-conditioning, stone benchtops, alfresco entertaining areas and generously appointed kitchens, can be included at a fraction of the cost of a bespoke architecture build.

To capitalise on these savings, clients are required to choose materials, such as the tiles or roof materials, from a set list of products. Choosing materials not included in your chosen project home’s package is possible, but it will result in additional charges. Many people see this narrowed down list of products as a positive, because it simplifies the house design process, which can become a very time consuming and stressful endeavour. Plus, you can often see the materials as they have been used in local homes by checking out your builder’s gallery.

Floor plans are also customisable, however, if any changes are requested, they will negatively impact on the savings you have made by selecting an off-the-plan build in the first place. Choosing a home builder with a good range of floor plans to choose from will help mitigate this issue and keep your project home costs down. Also, project home floor plans are usually designed for standard, rectangular, flat blocks of land. So, if your property has a substantial slope or is unusually shaped then you’re probably going to get the best outcome for your block from a custom home design. So, read on…

Custom home designs

Allow you to work more closely with a home builder to have greater impact on the overall design. You create a home to suit your needs, and your block of land at a fraction of the price of a bespoke build.

 Basically, custom home designs sit somewhere in the middle between a complete architecturally designed build and a project home. The in-house draftsperson or designer makes sure the final home plans are both unique and professionally designed, while taking into consideration the site’s specific requirements, the budget, and the lifestyle ambitions of the client.

The timeline to build a custom home design can sometimes take slightly longer when compared to a project home. This simply comes down to allowing more time to finesse the finished floor plans, as well as to arrange individual material orders, labour contracts, and finalise building schedules. So, if a quick build is more important than customisation, then a project home may be a more suitable home building solution.

When opting for custom house designs there are advantages of choosing a home builder that offers both custom and project home designs. This is because they will have an established network of local suppliers working with them on a substantial number of project home jobs. While a custom home design can’t attract all the discounted rates, it can still benefit from the strong relationships the builder has forged with their local workforce, which can only be a benefit to the overall quality of the build.

Of course, the biggest benefit for choosing custom home plans is choice. You can be as involved as you like in the house design process to get your floor plans just as you want them. Beyond a unique home, benefits also include incorporating solar passive design to save on future heating and cooling costs, through to taking advantage of the best aspects of your site features, which may be views, landscaping, or slope. So, if your budget suits a custom house design, and unique features appeal to you, then this may be an ideal choice.

Ready to start on your new home plans?

If you need personalised, reliable advice for building a project home or custom home design, then we can help. Our specialised team will talk you through your unique pros and cons for each type of build. Contact us today.

by Super Admin

REASONS TO BUILD A CUSTOM DESIGN HOME

With a custom design build you can create your sanctuary, entertainment hub, business HQ, or whatever you’re into, on a more modest budget than an architect’s plans might deliver on – no wonder custom house design services are in such high demand. So, let’s get inspired…

Tailored floor plans and future-proofing

The opportunities to customise go far beyond property considerations, such as building on a narrow, sloping or unusually shaped block – they can provide the flexibility to create your dream property. A custom floor plan that suits your lifestyle now, as well as your family’s needs in the future, means you can benefit from your home design for a much longer period. Customisation of floor plans generally begins with establishing the number of rooms needed and where they are to be positioned in the home, as well as the size of the rooms, e.g., do you plan to entertain a lot, have a house full of children, get into gourmet cuisine, or make the most of your natural surrounds through integrated inside-outside spaces? By gaining an understanding of your needs – now and future – will mean your home design can be future-proof.

However, future-proofing is more than simply considering bedroom sizes and numbers. Other common features to help future-proof your home design might be to increase door widths and bathroom sizes, add custom fittings, or even to include accessibility ramps. This can be particularly important if you're nearing retirement years and intend to stay in the house long-term. Financially it also makes good sense to consider your future needs from the outset. This can reduce alteration costs in the future or avoid having to sell prematurely – reinforcing the affordable nature of custom house design, if careful planning has gone into the project.

Other special additions:

As already mentioned, a custom house design can help a new home builder address site requirements and future-proofing. But how about the fun stuff? You know, those special spaces you’ve always dreamt of and all of your unique home design ideas…

Artist studio/teenage retreat. You might have always wanted your own artist’s studio to paint, make music, write or a place simply to hideaway and relax. As you might imagine, studios require good natural light, can especially benefit from quiet areas of a home, and are often detached from the main building. So, a spare bedroom generally won’t compare to a well-planned, custom design studio. A good studio needs a bit of open space, often larger than a standard bedroom allows, and that is where customisation can provide a simple and affordable property solution. Studios can often double as guest spaces or can make an ideal teenager hangout as your family needs change.

Epic home entertainment. Many modern homes feature home cinema spaces as a standard, but the beauty of a custom house design means you can take the standard home cinema to the next level. This might include allowing for tiered seating, wired in tech, block-out screens, bar area, you name it.

Complete office set-up. And while all this talk of injecting fun and life-long dreams into development planning is exciting, business needs are increasingly on a client’s list of requirements. A substantial home office might be needed at the property, beyond a study nook or a converted spare bedroom. To meet many people’s modern work demands, the ideal home design includes a fully functional workspace, possibly with external access so clients don’t need to access the main part of the home. A complete office set-up could also save businesses from paying unnecessary office rent, adding to the overall affordability of a custom house design.

Workout in comfort. Also, as health is an increasing focus for many people living in and around Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, a home gym is also a popular request when clients are using our custom design service. Forget being relegated to a cold cement garage to run on your treadmill or lift weights – design a purpose-built space with air-conditioning, insulation, carpet if you prefer, even with wall mounted screens and surround sound speakers.

Affordable lifestyles

Custom house designs are the perfect middle ground for most people looking to build in the Hunter Valley, Newcastle and surrounds – they have a quality assured starting point with streamlined building efficiencies, which might include slab engineering, roof pitch, structural materials, orientation, through to certain finishes and fittings. But then you get to take that starting point and create something truly unique. Plus, the customisation ideas outlined in this article are just the beginning.

Contact our team today to book your personal planning session and start your custom house design journey with local home builder experts.

by Super Admin

YOUR BUILDING AND DESIGN LANDSCAPE IN 2019

Just about every person we spoke to over the last year was busy, and in 2018 that was certainly true for Valley Homes too. We built a house a week as part of a unique defence housing project, Wirraway Estate, and after a lot of hard work and clever systems design we won an award for our WHS Management System. Plus we consistently provided local families and astute investors budget advice, all while delivering quality builds on a range of different building options. This included acreages perfect for modern families and duplexes and dual occupancies to suit the unique needs of retirees.

Of course, being busy is great for Valley Homes and so we are working hard to make sure 2019 will include more big partnerships with estates and larger scale projects, as well as more unique home plans to provide our local families, retirees, first home buyers, and investors new home builds that inspire. And because 2019’s New Year’s resolutions are in full swing, now is the perfect time to celebrate the successes of 2018 and then swiftly look ahead to what is in store for you in 2019…

2019 – Trends and Inspirations

Our design team is always on the lookout for the latest décor styles and building products, so here are their big 2019 tips from their favourite design sites and trend forecasters:

Colour trends

Taubmans Colour Inspirations showcase a range of looks from coastal to industrial and more traditional palettes with bold and spirited colours for the home that reflect harmony and nature. Colour giant Pantone has also released their must-have colours and Living Coral is Pantone’s pick for 2019. So while millennial pink may be out of favour, vibrant corals are set to be adding pops of colour in on-trend décors.

Interior design inspiration

In 2019 recycled, sustainable, textural, and natural designer pieces will continue to grow in popularity. Texture is a big one as it is both a visual and sensory experience, and some of the best interior designers will be carefully layering large pieces of marble or stone with soft timber tones. Natural wool and cotton rugs, velvety and soft cushions, and flowing window dressings are set to be partnered with warm metallic materials and clean, sleek lines. Gold is the metallic colour of choice for 2019, particularly popular with the modern art-deco movement, brought to life as bar carts, striking mirrors, and bathroom and kitchen fittings.

Architecture Trends

The kitchen continues to be the centrepiece of home life and the best house plans are reflecting this. Open plan living is still in high-demand, but the 2019 version includes greater focus on fostering conversations and creating design flow for keep families connected to each other, as well as connecting them to the world in which they live. The internet of things will really come into play with smart fridges being one of the most sought-after appliances in modern kitchen designs.

Industrialism is also set for a comeback in 2019 with matte black and concrete featuring in many architectural home plans. Also, just as recycled and sustainable interiors are popular, eco-friendly architecture is also set to dominate in 2019, which seamlessly connects to our next trend…

Landscaping and Outdoor

Landscaping is no longer a solely outdoor undertaking. In 2019 we will see more indoor living spaces featuring green walls and even micro urban farming units transforming homes and living spaces in meaningful and nourishing ways. Outdoor rooms are predicted to increase in popularity and one of the most fun outdoor predictions is the emergence of adult-treehouses. Another favourite here at Valley Homes is the movement towards private oases cleverly tucked away in your very own garden. They’re perfect for day-to-day luxury resort-style living, while also offering unique entertaining opportunities for guests.

Investments in 2019

Property market investment trends are probably the most important to pay attention to for developers looking for their next investment project, and also for our local families, couples and retirees wanting to either get into the property market, upsize or downsize in 2019. The good news is while some markets are on the decline regional Australia is tipped to be where Australia’s property market stays strong in 2019. So it seems Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens residents are predicted to benefit from a healthy property market in 2019.

2019, let’s get into it

Whether your New Year’s resolutions or 2019 goals are looking towards a refurbishment, renovation or a completely new construction, hopefully now you are armed with all the design inspirations and trends to get your started for what will no doubt be a busy 2019 – and if it is quality construction and building, and architectural house plans you want in your year ahead, talk to our team.

Our top 5 Articles of 2018:

BUILDING 1 HOUSE A WEEK FOR DHA SPECIAL HOUSING PROJECT

VALLEY HOMES’ WHS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IS A WINNER!

BUYING A BLOCK OF LAND – 5 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BUILD ON BUDGET

LIVEABLE, LOVABLE HOMES FOR YOUR RETIREMENT: DUPLEXES AND DUAL OCCUPANCY

ACREAGES FOR MODERN FAMILIES

by Super Admin

KNOCKDOWN YOUR HOUSE – KEEP YOUR CONNECTION TO HOME

As The Castle’s Darryl Kerrigan famously said, “It’s not a house, it’s a home” – and it’s a heart-warming quote that acknowledges the attachment we all make to where we live. Darryl’s statement is not about the physical structure or the peeling wallpaper housed within it.

It’s about the memories made, the proximity to friends and family, and a representation of how you want to live your life. And it is this sentiment which gets to the core of why a knockdown rebuild is increasingly popular, especially amongst Newcastle families.

It’s actually a very common situation many families across Newcastle find themselves in – you don’t have enough bedrooms, share a single bathroom, are constantly patching old wiring and plumbing, or need to finally get that dedicated home office to expand your business. So it can be hard to ignore the mounting list of cons for staying, but moving means uprooting your family and saying goodbye to memories made on the property. To solve this dilemma many opt to knock down their home to build a brand new home in its place. It’s the best of both worlds!

It’s so common in fact, simply take a drive through any Newcastle suburb and you are bound to find a number of knockdown rebuilds in progress. They are especially popular in established Newcastle suburbs that are zoned for sought after schools. This is where a builder like Valley Homes come in. We can help you hold onto those memories, maintain your community ties, and upgrade your home lifestyle by creating more floor space, adding rooms, creating new family entertaining zones, and connecting modern services – all for a fraction of the price of a full renovation.

If this sounds like you, before you get carried away with dreams to land renovate we recommend you look into a few things first:

1. Get to know your budget

Many people search ‘cost to knockdown and rebuild home’ when starting their budget research and yes, a knockdown rebuild can often be cheaper than a full renovation. This is of course a huge part of the appeal, especially as it can also save you spending money on the fees and taxes associated with buying and selling. But construction isn’t free, of course, and with any investment of this size it is always a good start to talk to your financial service provider. If you have an existing mortgage this is a good opportunity to find out how much money you can access for a build and get a solid idea of the current equity in your property.

Plus, when we talk about knowing your budget, we mean more than simply knowing how much you can get from the bank. We also mean knowing how much you want to spend and how much it will cost to build the type of home you aspire to live in. Talking to an experienced knockdown rebuild builder can give you accurate quotes relating to this. Keep in mind property restrictions, such as a slope, can increase overall budgets.

2. Can your house be knocked down?

Something you may also need to consider is whether your property is restricted by heritage listings. Heritage listing can mean a knockdown is not an option, or it may mean that partial elements need to be maintained when you rebuild, such as a front facade. Also, before you knock down anything make sure your local council allow the type of home you intend to build in its place. It’s one thing to knockdown a rundown house, but if you can’t build a bigger dwelling on the place because of council restrictions relating to height or footprint, then you should definitely know that before the bulldozers move in. This is something an experienced builder can assist with. At Valley Homes we can liaise with council for you so you have all of the information from the outset.

3. Quality builds takes time

Before you start the knock down rebuild process it will help you manage expectations and budgets if you are aware of how long your build will take. Time can also directly impact your budget, especially if you are expecting to rent a house while the construction takes place. Keep in mind a two-storey dwelling will take longer to build than a single storey and if your budget will only stretch to a certain amount of weeks, it will save you a lot of anguish and financial stress if you take this into consideration in the planning stage of your project.

Is a knockdown with the plan to rebuild your home solution?

Maybe you subscribe to Daryl Kerrigan’s sentimentality, or maybe you just love where you live but are due for an upsize or upgrade. Either way, our team of knockdown rebuild experts can give you a quote, a building schedule and answer all of your construction questions – simply contact us on 02 4934 1400 or at sales@valleyhomes.com.au

by Super Admin

AFFORDABLE ARCHITECTURE

Google ‘affordable architecture’ and most of the results are blogs and articles featuring shipping containers, tiny living trends and pre-fabricated house designs. It’s all a little off-beat and quirky, which of course can be beautiful and inspirational, but maybe that isn’t what you had in mind? If your idea of a budget-friendly architectural build is moreover a unique, generous, and luxurious home built to a conservative or set budget, and doesn’t include retro-fitting a shipping container, squeezing your family into a jazzed-up caravan or building ‘just another pre-fab kit-home’ – then read on…

Firstly, the ‘not-quite-right’ Google results mentioned above probably occurred because the words ‘affordable’ and ‘architecture’ traditionally are not close allies. Especially as the word architecture historically aligns more closely with ‘expensive’. Fortunately however, this isn’t the case anymore. Modern architects have the skills to design a dream home filled with creative solutions and architectural features, all for a reasonable price.

Achieving such a house is simply a case of knowing:

1. where to splurge and where to pull-back,
2. who to talk to regarding house designs, and
3. which builder can bring your dream home to life.

To help you out, we’ve covered all three…

1. Keeping your architectural design on budget

• Keep your floor plan as simple as possible. Open floor plans are on-trend and require less walls and internal infrastructure. This means you get a modern floor plan with an increase sense of space, while your building costs are reduced due to less materials and structural requirements.
• Standard sizes save you money. When working with your architect try and stick to standard sized elements where possible. Oversized doors, windows, gables, etc. mean that they have to be custom made, can’t be bought in bulk, and generally cost more.
• Luxury comes in all sizes. Ask yourself, and be honest, “How many rooms do we really need?” By sticking to the size you actually need you will be able to spend more on quality design details, feature areas, be more eco-friendly, and even allow for impressive outdoor zones.
• Strategic features. Architectural design must include unique features that reflect your lifestyle and personality, however if you are conscious to keep your build ‘affordable’ then exercise a little restraint and save your architectural features for key spaces only. High use or entertainment spaces tend to be the most popular areas to maximise architectural
• Durable materials over fussy or flashy trends. If you are investing your time and money to build an architecturally designed home, chances are you intend to live in it for many years to come. So keep your ongoing maintenance costs down by choosing smart from the outset. Hardwearing stone and natural wood timbers etc., tend to have great longevity.

2. Working with local Architects

There are many highly regarded and talented architects working in the Newcastle and Hunter regions. This is great news for home builders, however it can feel a little overwhelming. After all, architectural builds can be a highly personal experience, especially for those who are investing a lot of their time and energy into the project.

In addition to credentials and registration details, what you want to find out from prospective architects is: Do they ‘get you’? Do they respect your opinions and ideas? And can they work within your budget? If you can answer ‘yes!’ to all three, then you are in good shape.

Personal recommendations for local architects is many home builder’s preferred method of finding a suitable person. However, if personal recommendations from family, friends or colleagues isn’t possible, we recommend starting at sites such as Houzz.com.au, Local Search, Yellow Pages, and of course, Google.

Local media features, such as the Newcastle Herald’s Homes of the Hunter, are also a great source of home inspiration, as well as handy to find out the names of local architects. Another helpful tip is to keep an eye out for local developments which interest to you. Most development sites provide contact details for the builder and architect involved. This can be particularly useful to see how the design takes shape and what features work.

3. Building your plans with Valley Homes

Our team is uniquely positioned to build a variety of options, from acreages to duplexes. We can build plans provided by an external architect and we also have a suite of pre-designed floor plans to choose from, as well as a custom home design option that engages our in-house draftsman. All of this means flexibility and freedom to choose the best option for your plot, budget, and lifestyle.

To talk all things architectural and affordable, our team can be contacted on 02 4934 1400 or send a message here

by Super Admin

BUYING A BLOCK OF LAND – 5 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BUILD ON BUDGET

When the finances are lined-up and the development or suburb has been decided upon: next step is securing the all-important block of land. And while that may sound simple, it can be anything but. There are many factors to consider – some may cost you more than you bargained for and others will be simple if you have all the facts from the outset. To help you get the best out of your development build we’ve put together some tips to make buying your block of land a breeze.

Tip 1. Have your home plans in mind before you buy

This may sound obvious, but before you do anything as drastic as buying a block of land first draw up a rough plan of what your new home will include. It doesn’t need to be architecturally accurate or even look like a house, it just needs to give you an indication of house size – which translates to how big your property needs to ideally be. That is, if you want four bedrooms, two living areas, two bathrooms, a double garage, galley kitchen, in-ground pool and veggie patch – then you need to narrow down your search to only include suitable blocks and will avoid you having to compromise on your custom home designs down the track.

Tip 2. Sloping blocks can be costly – but can also reward

Buying into a new development will often present a variety of options regarding whether the property has a slope or not, as well as the direction the slope falls – and the blocks with slopes on them are often much cheaper than their flat neighbours at the other end of the street. If you are budget conscious, and who isn’t, then there is an important thing to note. While the initial block of land may be cheaper to purchase, sloping block builds are frequently more expensive than non-sloping builds. Site costs can be larger, foundations may need specialised engineering and home designs will need to be customised to work with the block. However, depending on the slope orientation, sloping blocks can also offer the opportunity for views, better access to natural solar, or even clever integration of cross breezes. It often is the case that in more established suburbs sloping blocks actually tend to attract higher resale prices.

Tip 3. Get the dirt on your soil

If your soil is reactive then this means it has an increased chance of moving. The movement is usually due to either increases or decreases in moisture, but essentially it will determine the type of sub-floor you will require and how deep the footings will need to go. Also, if your property was previously part of an industrial plant or something similar, ensure the soil has been tested for chemical levels and is safe for residential builds as this may be very costly to rectify. Also, if you are buying a block of land that has large rocks and/or established trees then understand your home design may end up having to work around them, or alternatively you might be up for some hefty removal fees and council permits to clear the land.

Tip 4. Narrow blocks can be a challenge

There have been some amazing homes built on narrow blocks and there are many innovative technologies designed to maximise your sense of space in smaller or narrower homes. However, whenever the words ‘innovative technologies’ appear in relation to new home builds it generally isn’t followed by ‘inexpensive’. Narrow blocks can be a design challenge, which can translate into increased costs. Plus, if the blocks are also for sale on either side of your chosen property and they are also narrow blocks then the chances of the new owners building upper levels to maximise floor space might mean your natural light will be reduced. It can also mean you will have to be comfortable being very close to your neighbours.

Tip 5. Know your neighbourhood’s fire and flood risk

A new home that backs onto pristine bushland might sound idyllic, but before you hand over your life savings it pays to understand how being close to bushland areas impact on your building costs. If your house is within 100 metres of bushland your block of land will need to have a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) that your builder will have to comply with. Often requiring more expensive materials. Also, you need to know if your block is below flood level. If it is in a 1:100 flood prone area your custom home design may also need to be altered. Plus, if there is a fire or flood on your property and then you wish to sell at a later date, this can affect your final sale figure. Not to mention the increased insurance premiums you will be paying in the meantime.

And that’s our top 5 consideration on purchasing properties…

Hopefully with these things in mind you are now feeling more confident to secure your unique block of land – and after you have done that we’d love you to come and speak to our team of custom home design specialists to maximise your property’s shape, aspect, and potential.

Interested to find out more? Get in touch today

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by Super Admin

YOUR YEAR FOR HOME HAPPINESS

While many Australian’s focus on health and fitness, a better work life balance, and making more time for loved ones, a very large portion also have their New Year’s goals firmly pointed towards building their little piece of property happiness in 2018 – otherwise known as a brand new custom designed home! So let’s start the inspirational design journey right now...

Five top design inspirations:

If you are yet to start a home inspiration Pinterest board full of your favourite colour trends and architecture features, and you haven’t been trawling Instagram to find out if copper fittings are still must-have kitchen accents or if Millennial Pink is still the shade of the moment, then relax. Not only is the start of 2018 an exciting time when New Year’s resolutions become New Year’s actions, it is also the time when all of the best design blogs, supplier websites, property magazines and home builders are keen to help you discover architectural insights and colour tips, as well as reveal the latest fittings, fixtures and finishes to customise your dream home.

And here’s a taste of the top 2018 trends to get your started:

1. Metallic fixtures and fittings

First up, according to Real Living magazine’s inspirational site Homes To Love, yes, copper is still a favourite metallic. However, brass is overtaking it as the must-have accent colour, particularly for bathroom and kitchen fittings and fixtures, as well as pendant lights. If you’re not big on brass yourself, you might be pleased to know that classic silver is also not far behind brass in the popularity stakes.

Knowing what accent materials and colours you prefer is a great starting point when it comes time to select your overall colour palette for your new home, as it can determine whether you opt for standard or luxury inclusions when finalising your house plans.

2. Considered contrast

Contrast is a long-standing tool when talking about great custom home design, but as a 2018 trend it has a new paired back, simplified twist. Essentially, considered contrast refers to contrasting tones, materials, textures and even styles that add additional layers of interest to create a dynamic design space, while using only simple palettes or a limited range of textures and tones.

We love this reinvention of contrast and highly recommend this sparing, considered approach, which will maximise your wow-factor and ensure your home is cohesive. For example, if you are a fan of the latest range of Steel Matt Colorbond and PGH Bricks, like home renovators on The Block are, you can create external interest by contrasting colours, while limiting the finish to matt.

3. Tiles and nature

Tiles made from natural materials are proving to be in high demand in 2018 already, which is in-line with the Japanese inspired Wabi Sabi trend. This nature centric trend sees many new home builders choosing to mimic nature in their designs and architecture, creating inviting and earthy spaces. Examples of this are contrasting sleek marble benchtops with reclaimed timber dining areas, or pairing crisp, glossy tiles with earthen matt ceramics.

In addition to tiles, Wabi Sabi has also inspired custom interior landscaping, bringing the perfect imperfections of nature into your most intimate living spaces. Amber Tiles’ new range of eco sandstone-inspired large format tiles are particularly attractive for custom home designs in 2018 that utilise shared indoor/outdoor areas to create a seamless, durable transition, while enhancing the overall design.

4. Custom joinery

Customised storage has long been a custom design home essential and our team of custom home designers and builders have always relished working with our customers to personalise and capitalise on all possible areas of interest when finalising house plans. However, custom joinery in kitchens is a particularly exciting trend at the moment and is tipped to get bigger and better in 2018. Think natural, sustainably sourced timbers to craft open shelving, feature benchtops, or clever under-bench storage.

We are proud to work very closely with the winner of the 2017 HIA Hunter Kitchen of the Year Valley Kitchens and their custom designed joinery extends beyond the kitchen to also include entertainment hubs and expansive wall units – and they always receive outstanding customer feedback.

5. Share your vision with design experts

Choosing to build a home that will be your sanctuary from the world, your private entertainment mecca, or your haven for culinary creativity is an admirable goal and one you definitely don’t have to go alone. Collaborating with designers and architects can take your initial ideas and inspiration from being impressive, through to being a home that will give you complete and absolute home happiness.

Simply pick up the phone, send us an email or drop into our showroom to learn how our team of custom home design specialists can turn your custom home design goals into reality.

by Super Admin

FLEXIBLE IN-HOUSE DESIGNS AS FLEXIBLE AS OUR CUSTOMERS

At Valley Homes we are extremely proud to say that our extensive range of in-house duplex and house plans are rarely the final designs our customers move into. This is because, as Sales Manager Kaye Purdon says, “Our in-house designs are mostly used as a base for clients to create their own plans.” And with over 25 years working with the team at Valley Homes, Kaye knows the benefits of a flexible in-house suite of designs. “It’s win-win. Customers can save money and time on the initial design, while still creating something unique to them.

“Customers can sit down with one of our designers and discuss modifications to the house or duplex plan. This may include favourite features from their existing home or a design element they have seen in a magazine or online.” This flexibility can be seen in one of our most popular designs, the Braidwood Duplex, which as Kaye describes, “Can be easily modified to include a walk in pantry, study nook, or additional bathroom and ensuite options. We even have many different façade options as well.”

After completing a Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) at Sydney University and establishing herself in the industry as an intuitive architect, Valley Homes’ Designer, Stef Kinsey, has been working with the team for over seven years. Stef has been involved with over 320 projects, including budget conscious, low cost house builds through to luxurious investments with top of the range fixtures and design extras. Stef’s personal favourite in-house design is the Oakhampton from the Acreage Series, simply because it has it all. “It is a plan that has defined zones for parents, children and teens, dedicated entertaining spaces, and includes a study or guest bedroom. The most common design alteration requested by customers are increased alfresco areas and a third car space in the garage, which are also already included in the Oakhampton.”

The popularity of in-house designs goes beyond the economically beneficial house and duplex plans and their inbuilt flexibility. It also extends to being

able to see first-hand what works. As Stef points out, “Yes, in-house designs are a good starting point for clients to tweak plans and personalise living spaces to suit their lifestyles, but because the design has most often been previously built by us, customers can drive-past an existing home to get a true understanding of the street appeal, suitable façades and overall style, before fully committing to the investment.”

Valley Homes’ investment in producing a comprehensive collection of in-house plans, many under the direct guidance of Stef, means there is a range of features, configurations and budget options available. As Stef says, “Having such a wide choice also means that customers can also select a house or duplex plan that suits the site orientation to take advantage of their specific views, aspect or even access. This is particularly important to take advantage of the beautiful northern sun for living spaces and alfresco entertaining areas.”

The in-house design process – planning your low cost build with Valley Homes

If you are researching your home design options and want to know more about the process, here is a quick snapshot of what you can expect when working with us:

1. First you will consult with someone from our sales team to get a personalisedoverview of the process.
2. If you want to progress, at this stage all you need to do is provide the site details.
3. Then it is a matter of sitting down with one of our designers, such as Stef, and selecting the best house or duplex plans for your budget, your site aspect and size, and your lifestyle – and then customise to suit.
4. This is when we will give you a quote, otherwise known as a preliminary tender.
5. If you decide to go ahead with the quote we will prepare all of the necessary documents and plans for submission to council…
6. …while you get to select the colour schemes, finishes, fixtures, fittings, and extras.
7. We will then build, build, build.
8. You receive the keys. Simple.

As Kaye says, “Our experienced staff manage the entire build process efficiently and stress free, modify designs to suit individual requirements, and deliver a high quality finished product.” So it really is easy to see why in-house designs are one of the most popular options for customers wanting to build a duplex or house, especially when budget is top of mind.

If you would like to know more about in-house builds, the economical, dare we say it cheap to build nature, please drop us a line or phone us on 0249341400. We also have many floor plans available to view online to make your preliminary research as simple as possible.

Another informative dual occupancy article:

• In-house designs – Plans

by Super Admin

HUNTER VALLEY SPOTLIGHT – EVEN MORE REASONS TO BUILD YOUR VERY OWN ACREAGE

Now is a great time to experience an authentic country lifestyle and build your very own luxury acreage in the Hunter Valley. The region has easy access to modern facilities and city opportunities, it has many good size plots available at competitive land prices, and it is the home to agricultural icons, such as the nearby vineyards – and this is tranquil little piece of regional Australia is definitely on the up and up.

If you’re not sure what an acreage is feel free to contact us for a chat, but typically it is a single level home on land larger than an acre allowing for expansive, relaxed designs, full of the luxury inclusions you just couldn’t fit on an inner city block. This includes a gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry, his and hers walk-in robes, triple garage, additional workshop, very generous living and private spaces, and so much more. Most importantly, it’s not just picking one or two of these either, it is enjoying the whole suit of spacious extras!

If you’re keen on building a luxurious country retreat with all the acreage property must-haves mentioned above, you might then be asking, why is the Hunter Valley such a standout option for building in regional Australia? Well, the Hunter Valley is continuing to show strong developmental potential through the extensive planning and vision of developers and the Local Council. Current developments are supporting existing industries thriving in the area, such as mining, agriculture, hospitality, and tourism, as well as working to create solid infrastructure, providing employment opportunities through the building of new schools, shopping districts and recreational facilities.

While you may want to escape to your own private acreage hideaway and not worry about surrounding progress, it will no doubt be

comforting to know the Hunter Valley is a solid financial investment. Projects like The Levee in Maitland nearing completion, Huntlee the brand new town just outside of Branxton selling early stages, and the recent sale of the expansive Anvil Creek site which is tipped to include a golf course, amphitheatre and further residential opportunities, is creating a lot of interest in the property market.

The recent spike in interest is also partially thanks to the recent upgrade of major arterial roads, in particular the Hunter Expressway. Getting in and out of the area is quicker and easier than ever with Newcastle less than an hour away. Plus, as more attention has been drawn into the growing population, so too is the focus on ensuring public transport also keeps up – which is usually a good sign for future proofing an investment.

The only downside to all of this amazing news about the Hunter Valley’s bright future, is the word is getting out and more people are wanting to build there. As you probably know, when it comes to property markets increased popularity means prices may soon be driven up too – as well as the most spacious or most secluded blocks get a little harder to come by. The great news for prospective acreage builders, however, is that land prices are still very competitive, especially when compared to nearby Newcastle and there are still many blocks available that are perfect for an acreage build. Now is the time to act.

A great starting point for anyone interested in building a new home in the Hunter Valley, and you’re still deciding if an acreage build is best for you, is to take a look at our six featured acreage floor plans. This will give you clear and simple information about potential layouts, inclusions and the potential you will have for an amazing country lifestyle. Also, each design is fully customisable, which is particularly important so you can maximise the unique aspects of your specific block.

Other great acreage and/or Hunter Valley articles:

• Country Home Design – Enjoy the perfect day, every day
• Acreage living – when bigger is better
• On-trend: Custom home design in the Hunter

by Super Admin