Trendsideas

Textured finishes create design presence for this kitchen boasting island seating, savvy appliance locations, a bar area, and well-planned storage 

 A German-made AgeExplorer suit, offered at Blum showrooms, lets you simulate aging first hand – helping you choose kitchen and bathroom products that will work for you now and in the future

Summer is all about getting outside and soaking up the good vibes and sunshine – luckily home builder expert G.J. Gardner has you covered, as these showhomes with private, sheltered outdoor living areas attest

A Lusini, Solid Surface, freestanding tub in a matt white finish, from Highgrove Bathrooms, creates a sculpture corner in this bathroom as well as being the best place to soak

Bamboo is a great choice for a wide range of building-related solutions – specialists Plantation Bamboo outline some of the key reasons

A master ensuite has all the right touches thanks to interior design by Home Candy Interiors and some considered tile choices from The Tile Depot

It's a balancing act – a stand out powder room that, being near the front door, is also hidden away – a secret door and feature wall with mystique are just two high points

 This bathroom features an elevated freestanding bathtub with integrated lighting used to dramatic effect – lighting plays a key role in other areas, too

This award-winning home boasts exceptional window and door integration – Euroslider and Eurostacker door systems from Altus make for dramatic outlooks and seamless detailing

Clean lines, integrated appliances and dark joinery; gold accents, stone benchtops, a wealth of seating, and the list goes on – this pared back kitchen also reflects an emphasis on sustainability

Creating a way forward for crowded cities, this low-rise apartment development by Shay Cleary Architects avoids crowding out skies and views while retaining privacy at every turn

The reorientation of this new home from the existing house on the site brought a wealth of advantages, including allowing for full engagement with the northern sun and the achievement of much needed privacy