About Us

Everyone is after the latest products these days but sometimes its more fun to look into things from a time long past. As the saying goes: Old is Gold. If you are drawn to the unusual charm of old ornaments and wish to adorn your home with the remnants of a bygone era, then we are just the place for you.

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Self-expression

Antiques are a form of self-expression and having them in your home reflects your refined taste. That is why Brisbane Antique Centre has some of the best variety of Home Antiques that can enhance the mood of your house.

Services

Collection We boast a sophisticated collection of home antiques ranging from small trinkets to large pieces of furniture. Our collection spans across different cultures and centuries and you are bound to find something that suits your fancy.

Professional Expertise/ Appraisals

We are a reliable place where you can find authentic articles at reasonable prices. A team of highly professional antique appraisers thoroughly investigate all the pieces put on display at our shop. If you have any personal items that you want appraised, you can avail the services of these professionals whose credibility is guaranteed.

Our Blogs

Essential Questions to Ask When Selecting Furniture Removalists in Sydney

Shifting places is never an easy task and requires plenty of planning to ensure that the project is a success. You may decide to make all the arrangements by yourself, including parking and hiring casual movers to help you transport your belongings. Another excellent option you can take is to get an excellent certified furniture removalist company to help in the planning and moving process.

Some shy away from approaching established furniture removalists for fear that they are costly. However,  if you take your time to find a reliable company, you will not regret spending every scent on them because of the quality and professionalism of their services. Here are some crucial questions that you need to ask the removalist before employing them.

Essential questions to ask a removalist before hire

–          How do you handle fragile items?

Considering how delicate and valuable some of your household items can be, it is important to know the techniques that the removalist will use to handle them until they reach their destination. This includes important information about packing, moving and loading the items on the truck. You can also ask them to show proof of the packing materials that they will use to ensure the safety of your valuable assets.

–          Do you provide packing services?

If you do not have your packing materials, it will be appropriate to find a removalist who has readily available packing resources for various household items. So it is crucial to know what they have and the cost of hiring their packing materials. Some of the commonly used packing materials by the removalists include boxes, tape and bubble wraps. You may get free packing materials that will be returned to the removalist after the moving process, especially the ones that will not be damaged or used up.

–          What is your cancellation policy?

You may have already set a date for moving with the removalist, but the unexpected always happens and you may have a change of plans. Therefore, you have to be aware of the removalist cancellation policy and what it entails. You need to ask them about the cost involved in rescheduling your move or cancelling the process to a later undetermined date. This helps you to include the unforeseen costs that may arise in your moving process and ensures that you have everything prepared for.

–          What measures do you take to safeguard my furniture?

You also need to know how the removalist will handle your furniture so that it reaches the final destination without any scratches or damage. If they are a good company, they should tell you about the use of special tools like dollies and protective blankets to ensure that your furniture is not exposed to damage. Dollies are placed in appropriate locations where the furniture is like to get in conduct with other surfaces. Protective blankets are used to cover the entire furniture and provide a protective shield against things that may fall on top of the furniture.

When you explore Sydney’s furniture removals options, start by asking relevant questions to potential furniture removalists to understand how they will handle the process. These questions also help you to determine what it will cost you should you no longer require the removalist services, or if you need to reschedule your moving to a later date. Hiring a certified removalist can be cost-effective in the end since your moving process will be swift and safe.

 

What Mistakes Do Homeowners Make During Bathroom Renovations on the Gold Coast QLD?

You should invest in bathroom renovations if you want to transform your bathroom into a luxurious and modern one. However, as you plan to renovate your bathroom, you must know that this project has challenges. Like most homeowners, if you are not careful, you may make some mistakes during the bathroom renovations on the Gold Coast QLD, which may result in delays, poor results, and an increase in your budget. Due to this reason, you must make sure that you know the mistakes that you may make and how to avoid them so that your bathroom renovation project can be a success.

Mistakes Homeowners Make During Bathroom Renovations and How to Avoid Them on the Gold Coast QLD

The following are some of the mistakes that homeowners make during bathroom renovations and how you can avoid each of these mistakes during your project:

  • Improper planning

This is among the most significant errors that most owners make at the start of their bathroom renovation projects. You cannot just wake up one day and decide to renovate your bathroom; you begin with the renovations.  Instead, you have to understand that bathroom renovations come with their complexities. Thus, one must adequately plan for their bathroom renovation projects to avoid errors. As you plan for your bathroom renovations, you must think about your goals and needs, have precise measurements, develop a layout plan, raise the funds required, and find a professional to help you with the bathroom renovations. This way, everything will be done in order, unlike when you fail to plan for the bathroom renovation projects.

  • Underestimating the budget

This is also a common mistake among most people when renovating their bathrooms. As you plan for your bathroom renovations on the Gold Coast QLD, you must make sure that you consider other costs like unexpected repairs, plumbing upgrades, and fixture expenses.  When you overlook these costs, you set a budget that will not be enough to complete the bathroom renovation projects. As a result, you can delay your project or settle for low-quality materials that compromise your project. This ensures you have a realistic budget and avoid overlooking any hidden costs.

  • Choosing the wrong materials

As you select materials for your bathroom renovations, you must know each material’s pros and cons in the market. Also, you must remember that this area has a high moisture content. As a result, the water can damage some materials, causing issues like staining, warping, and water damage.  Therefore, if you plan to cut costs by investing in low-quality materials that are unsuitable for your bathroom, this is an idea you should avoid at all costs. Instead, make sure you choose materials like ceramic tiles, quartz countertops and vinyl flooring since they are moisture-resistant and durable.

  • Not hiring a professional for bathroom renovations

Most people think that renovation projects are very easy. As a result, they fail to hire professionals to renovate their bathrooms. DIY bathroom renovations will be cheaper, but without the relevant skills and experience, you are bound to make mistakes that may be more costly than hiring a professional. Thus, look for a renovator whenever you need bathroom renovation projects.

 

After reading the above section, you may think you cannot make the same mistakes, but you can if you are not careful. However, to succeed in your bathroom renovations in the Gold Coast QLD, make sure that you avoid making these mistakes at all costs. Learn more when you go to https://kbhi.com.au/bathroom-renovations-gold-coast/.

 

 

 

 

Installing high-quality heating and cooling systems in Canberra

Do you want to supercharge your home and make it energy efficient?  Consider investing in a high grade HVAC system. You can easily adjust the temperature of your home depending on the weather in Canberra.

It’s essential to assess and plan before HVAC installation.  Although these are standard equipment for residential spaces, majority home owners don’t have the expertise in selecting the right size or installing it on their own.

This is exactly where you need the services of reliable HVAC technician in Canberra.

HVAC installations in Canberra

During summer, the AC unit cools your home when temperatures start to soar.  It’s essential to have proper air quality for maximum comfort and maintaining the energy efficiency.

When installing a new HVAC system in your home, ensure you select a proper sized unit. The air conditioning should be connected to the central heating system. Meanwhile determine the cost of installation and speak with an expert to find the best location for the cooling unit.

An expert technician will assess your space and then choose a location to install the system.

Choosing the correct  air conditioner

The size of the unit is essential to ensure proper cooling. A small unit will not cool your home. On the other hand, a bigger unit might undermine your home’s energy efficiency. It might not work because it doesn’t get the required units to cool.

Before installing an air conditioner, speak with Canberra’s heating and cooling experts. Another factor to consider before purchasing the air conditioning unit is the heat gain in your home. The technician determines the amount of heat that filters into the living space. The placement of your doors, windows, and how your home is located in relation to the sun impacts its heat gain.

Ensuring your homes energy efficiency

You can determine the energy efficiency of electrical equipment through the SEER rating. The rating varies on the amount of electricity the air conditioner uses to operate. And air conditioner with a higher rating means a lower cost of utility bills. Speak with the repair technician to maintain the HVAC system to enhance your homes energy efficiency.

Energy efficient units are less likely to make noise. However, it’s essential the unit is tucked away from sight. The technician knows the best place to install the unit to maintain the comfort in your home.

Install the thermostat in a place where it is easier for you to regulate the temperature. Invest in a smart thermostat because it adjusts automatically and creates comfortable heating or cooling in your home.

If the home already has a central heating unit, the technician will only need to make few changes. The duct system which is next to the central heating system is joined with the cooling unit. However, if you are installing new ductwork, hire a trained technician.

Keeping these things in mind when installing a heating and cooling system, will allow you to make the right decision. Speak with our technicians to know more about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Why hire a professional moving service

Are you looking for a quick and convenient option for getting rid of old furniture. Find someone who is professional and provides services across Gold Coast. The following is a simple guide to help you find a reliable furniture removal service

Why choose furniture removals Gold Coast?

  • If you want a hassle free removal of old furniture, all you need to do is book online for free.
  • Professional removalists have the tools required to move belongings immediately and efficiently. They have the resources and manpower. Even the most complicated items can be moved efficiently without causing stress. Rest assured that everything is out of your home on schedule.
  • Professional movers are efficient. They pack and move everything for you in half the time that it would take to do yourself.
  • A professional moving company is insured. In case of mishap or damage during transit , be assured the damages will be reimbursed.
  • A professional removal company will send a specialized team who consider all aspects of moving quickly and efficiently. You wouldn’t have to worry about them banging into doors or trying to move huge sofas into narrow spaces. They have the tools to disassemble furniture and take it out slowly and carefully so there’s no damage to your existing space.
  • The professional moving company invests in high quality packing materials. It’s crucial to save your belongings during transit they also have access to specially designed storage facilities so your belongings are neatly stacked away and secured till the time you need them again.
  • Instead of spending all your time packing and moving your things from one place to another, hire professional movers to save time. Spend the time you’re moving with your friends and family and ensure you enjoy the experience of moving into a new home.
  • A common misconception is that hiring a removal service is expensive. Homeowners are always concerned about cost. It might seem like an extra expense, but it is a cost effective option. A professional moving service knows their job well. They can easily move your belongings without disturbing your life at home. Since they have the manpower and resources to handle all sorts of move, you are reassured everything will finish on time.
  • Why would you want to stress about a move when a removal company will handle the logistics. Sit back, relax and let them take care of the problem. Another reason to hire a moving service is that valuables are in safe hands. You will be less stressed and can focus on the more important tasks at work. For example, you may want to concentrate on decorating your home instead of having to worry about moving.

Moving homes is certainly an upheaval in your life. However, a professional moving service is the best option. They have the resources to handle everything efficiently and help make the move less stressful. There are several popular moving services across Gold Coast. Do proper research to find a high-quality company from the furniture removals options in Gold Coast.

Gold Coast security screens: Keeping your home safe

Are you worried about the safety and security of your home?  There have been instances where a neighborhood robbery might have left you sleepless. Ís not only the thought of losing your valuables but the security of your loved ones that overwhelms you.

There are certain ways homeowners can keep their homes safe and secure. Installing security screens is essential.

Security screens are not mere fly screen

There is a common misconception that security screens and fly screens are the same thing. They are quite different and have different purposes. One is only meant to keep the insects away and comprises of a thin mesh wire attached to an iron or a metal frame.

Security screens are made from high tensile stainless steel mesh. It’s designed for security purposes and prevents forced entry or break ins.

Purchase high-quality security screens. There are several security screens available in the market but they do not have the same level of performance and quality. The quality of the screen depends on the material they are made from. Screens made stainless steel are considered best because of their durability and weather resistance

High-quality stainless steel is designed into fine mesh. Its highly resilient and withstands all sorts of break in attempts. The mesh does not compromise outdoor view and ventilation, so you can enjoy a full breeze without worrying about the security of your home.

Benefits of installing security screens

High-quality security screens are designed to enhance the safety of your home. These are resistant against elements like bad weather and external forces. It is nearly impossible to cut through or damage a security screen.

When purchasing a security screen, take a look at the quality of its mesh. The mesh should be thicker than standard market thickness to have better resistance against cutting and impact.

Security screens prevent burglary and keep unwanted intruders away from your home. Always compare the quality of the security screens before you make a purchase.

Additionally security screens do not just keep intruders away but are a great way of getting rid of mosquitoes. The finally weaved mesh keep insects away.  Insect infestation has been on the rise and it’s essential to get protection from mosquitoes and other insects.

Security screens are also a great way of childproofing and pet proofing your windows. If you live on the higher level floors you can prevent fall from open windows. It’s especially essential for homes with kids and pets. Even if your home is 2 stories, there is always a risk of the children or pets falling off from the window balcony. A security screen protects your precious loved ones.

The woven mesh of security screens allow natural air flow into your home. It allows your home to be comfortable and airy even when the windows are closed.

The thin mesh of security screens allow them to blend in with your home aesthetics. These subtle screens do not impact the design of your windows and doors. It has a sleek and clean look.

Purchase quality fly screens in Gold Coast from a reliable manufacturer.

 

Add Value to Your Home With Patios

Creating patios can be a great way to extend the living space in your home. Patios can add value to your home by adding an outdoor room or even an outdoor kitchen. Patios are also great for entertaining guests. These can be built from concrete, asphalt, gravel or flagstone. You may also want to consider installing a water feature on your patio.

Concrete

Having a concrete patio is a great way to make your home more beautiful. Concrete is durable and easy to maintain. It has the ability to withstand a variety of weather conditions, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.

Concrete patios are one of the most affordable patio ideas on the market. They are also easily customizable. You can make concrete patios resemble brick, stone, and more. You can also add stains and designs to give it a personalized look.

Concrete is a popular choice for patios because of the variety of finishes it offers. It can be polished, stained, or stamped, and you can choose from a variety of designs.

Concrete is easy to maintain, and it does not rot. It also does not require periodic staining or sealing.

Asphalt

Adding a patio to your property is a good way to improve its resale value and enhance your enjoyment of the outdoors. In addition, asphalt patios are an easy way to create an outdoor gathering place for family and friends. The materials required to build an asphalt patio are relatively low-cost and easy to maintain.

A stamped asphalt patio is a good way to go for a stylish and practical addition to your home. The material is durable, flexible and weather resistant. This makes it the perfect choice for patios. You can also find stamped asphalt in a range of colors to match your home.

Stamped asphalt can be used for a number of purposes, including adding aesthetic appeal to an existing patio or creating a swooping patio around an outdoor fireplace. Stamped asphalt is also useful for protecting the base of a patio from snow and ice.

Flagstone

Using flagstone patios is a great way to add a rustic feel to your outdoor living space. Flagstones can be cut into different shapes and sizes, which makes it easy to create a variety of looks for your patio.

Flagstones are a great option for patios and decks, but they are heavy. To make sure the stones are in place, it’s important to compact the soil properly. It also helps to add a layer of sealer to prevent moisture and weed growth in the joints.

If you’re considering installing a flagstone patio, it’s a good idea to consult a professional landscaper. They can give you advice on which flagstones are best for your project, and also give you ideas for unique landscaping designs.

Gravel

Creating gravel patios is an affordable and practical solution for adding a beautiful ground level outdoor space to your home. These patios are often built with an enclosure made of stone or brick. They are also available in a wide variety of colors. They are suitable for most landscaping schemes and provide a beautiful surface that is easy to maintain.

Before creating your gravel patio, you will need to choose a base material. The base material is usually sand or crushed stone. This will depend on the soil type in your area. You will also need to level the ground and compact it. You will then need to select a color to coordinate with the rest of your home.

Gravel is typically available in bulk from landscaping supply companies. It is sold in cubic yards. Using a gravel calculator can help you determine how much gravel you will need.

Water features

Adding water features to your patio can be a smart way to improve your outdoor living space and add a splash of colour to your home. A water feature can be anything from a fountain to a small waterfall.

For a truly unique touch, try installing a water wall. This modern water feature combines glass sheets and a water feature in the form of a vertical waterfall. The trick is to choose the right type of water feature to match your style.

You can make an outdoor water wall with glass sheets and a few pieces of wood. You could also build one with a polyurethane or fibreglass membrane.

Some ideas for water features are a waterfall, a fountain, a birdbath, or even a natural pond for fish. You can even add some LED lights around your water feature for a modern touch.

Get a patio built in Sydney and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

Monetary and health benefits of professional carpet cleaning

Many households in Maryborough choose carpets as one of the decorative aesthetics of the home. It is because a home instantly looks and feels cosy, warm, and inviting with carpets. However, carpets begin to look lifeless and dull over time.

Carpets inevitably become the place for absorbing common household waste products such as pet fur, accidental liquid spills, and dead skin cells. The home starts to look and feel less desirable with the accumulation of bacteria in the carpet.

Dirty carpets not only look unsightly but they can also smell nastily. Regularly vacuuming your carpets may help. However, your carpets would inevitably need professional carpet cleaning, Maryborough to make them look and smell good as new.

Possibly one of the big investments households do in their homes is installing carpets. Installing carpets in major rooms in the home is costly. It is therefore sensible that to make the expense count is to protect the lifespan of the carpets.

With this said the monetary benefits provided by professional carpet cleaning, Maryborough include:

Prolong the lifespan of carpets

The longevity of carpets is extended when they are regularly cleaned by professional carpet cleaning services. Carpets are kept from looking dull, dirty, and lifeless when they are professionally cleaned twice or thrice a year. The daily wear and tear of carpets is further aggravated when it is embedded with debris and dirt. The daily foot traffic on carpets causes erosion of their materials. Yet, many households couldn’t tell the difference between clean and dirty carpets. Having the carpets cleaned professionally is the only guarantee to remove deep-seated dirt and other harmful pathogens, making them last for a long time.

Effective stain removal

It is inevitable for carpets to receive the brunt of everyday living. Since they cover large areas of the home, accidental spills and build-up of grime and dust are inevitable. The noticeable stains from accidental spills of ink, red wine, and coffee on carpets not only make them look unsightly but also make them smell bad.

Removing stains from the carpet is not a DIY job. While it may cost a bit to have carpets professionally cleaned, it is still the smartest way to protect your big investment.

Having carpets regularly cleaned professionally provides health benefits, including:

Eliminate irritants

The accumulation of dirt and dust participles in the carpet can trigger breathing issues such as asthma and allergies. Skin issues are also exacerbated by the dirt particles embedded in carpets. Eczema is a skin condition that is triggered by the presence of allergens and dust. The complete removal of irritants in your carpet helps to protect the overall health of the family.

Provide optimum air quality

Dirty carpets can produce a stinky smell that could aggravate the breathing conditions of household members. The stinky smell caused by coffee spills or pet urine on carpets can compromise the aesthetics and ambiance of the home as well. Carpets that are regularly cleaned by professionals provide a way for homes to look, feel, and smell good all the time.

Households with carpets must maintain optimum cleanliness. Breathing conditions are often the result of dirty carpets. The best way to maintain optimum hygiene in the home is to choose professional Maryborough carpet cleaning.

Common air conditioning issues homeowners in Brisbane Northside experience and how to prevent them

Have you ever been to any place in Brisbane Northside, during a hot summer and there is an air conditioning system experiencing some problems? This is certainly an awful experience that you will never want to experience again in your life. Therefore if you have an air conditioning system you should always ensure that it is still intact since it provides you comfort during the summer season. However, at times your air conditioning system may have some problems that may make it inefficient during the time that you need it most.

Problems that homeowners experience with their air conditioning systems?

 As a homeowner in Brisbane Northside, your air conditioning system is among the most important assets that you invest in some time before summer begins. As you invest in your air conditioning unit you may not expect it to be inefficient especially due to the high costs you incur buying it. However, there are certain problems that you will experience with the air conditioning system and will make this unit inefficient interfering with your comfort while you’re indoors. It’s therefore important to know about the problems you are likely to experience with your air conditioning system as a homeowner so that you can find solutions to your problems whenever necessary.  Some of the problems associated with the air conditioning system include;

  • Low refrigerant

An air conditioning system removes the excess heat and humidity from the air using the refrigerant. In case the air conditioning unit developed some leaks in its refrigerant lines you could have inadequate refrigerant. When the refrigerant levels are low the air conditioning system cannot cool the air effectively.

  • Evaporator coils that are frozen

The evaporator coil of your air conditioning system contains the refrigerant. The evaporator coils are like a sponge to help them absorb the heat from the ear. Even though the corals have refrigerant they need warm air to circulate them to enhance their efficiency when working. In case there is a problem with it’s airflow the air conditioner evaporator coils can get cold. With time the coils get too cold and ice begins to form on the exterior making them frozen. When this happens your air conditioning system will begin to produce warm air rather than cold air.

  • Dirty and dusty condenser coil

The condenser coils work by getting rid of the excess removed from the air and expelling it outside.  When the condenser coils are dirty they stop working making the parts of your air conditioning system wear and even fail with time.

  • Leaking ducts

 The ductwork runs through the walls or ceilings and carries cold air from the air conditioning system and distributes it throughout your house or office. If there are holes or leaks on the ductwork the cold air will wind up inside one room rather than all the rooms it should distribute the cold air too. This leads to an increase in your energy bills since your system has to work excessively to make your home or office cool.

  • Fan problems

 An air conditioning system has a fan that blows the air inside your home over an evaporator coil that cools it. There’s also a second  fan blowing air over  a condenser coil outside the unit  and  expelling the warm air outside the house. Sometimes either of the fans or both of them may not work properly especially because of excess dirt or debris worn-out belts, faulty motor and failure to lubricate the requitred parts of the air con.

How to prevent the above problems

To avoid the above problems, do the following things;

  • Inspect and maintain your air conditioning system regularly
  • Replace the dirty air filter
  •  Inspect the ductwork and  conduct the necessary repairs
  • Clear the dirt and debris around the air conditioning unit

Have all of these things done by the professionals at Act Fast Air Conditioning North Brisbane.

Air Conditioning: How it Works

What is air conditioning? It is a process where air conditioning equipment is used to keep optimum temperature levels in our indoor spaces. Many people think air conditioners work by making the air inside cold. It is untrue. Read this piece to fully understand how it works.

How it works

It expels hot air from inside while releasing cool air into the room reducing the temperature inside. The liquid absorbs heat when it changes to gas and this is the one principle air conditioners use to keep temperatures at the optimum levels in our homes. Just like a refrigerator, heat is absorbed from the system and expelled out of the room through the mechanism and components of an air conditioner.

Here are the steps

The warm air is drawn into the system, and then the warm air flows over the evaporator pipes to cool down while excess moisture is removed through a humidifier. The coolant in the chiller pipes absorbs heat blowing past, evaporates it into a warm gas. The warm air exits into a compressor unit or a condenser where it is turned back to liquid. The cold air is recirculated into the air where it mixes with existing air reducing the temperature and humidity, and the cycle repeats. Inside the unit, there are several components that manipulate pressure, state and the temperature of the refrigerant to allow it to cool the room.

Key components of an air conditioner

So far, we understand that every air conditioner must have a coolant flowing through several key components as follows:

The evaporator: the warm air is drawn from inside your house, passed through expansion valves to regulate the flow, then blown over a cold evaporator coil to absorb heat and while it absorbs heat, it changes to gas as it is moved to the compressor.

The compressor: the compressor is like a pump, where it decreases the volume of gas while raising its temperature and pressure for the gas to condense.

The condenser: condenser takes the warmth collected from the space by the coolant in the form of vapour and pumps it outside, the air outside absorbs heat as the coolant changes from gas to liquid. The cycle begins again with the evaporator.

Other roles of an air conditioner

There is a certain misconception that an air conditioner only serves to cool the temperature in our rooms. Yes, that is its major role but there are other benefits that come with installing air conditioners in our spaces. First, air conditioners have filters that help remove pollen and particles from the air so that we may breathe clean air. They also act as air humidifiers thus drawing moisture from the air in our spaces to reduce humidity. Other health benefits that come with air conditioners include reducing the chances of heat stroke and heat-related ailments.

Air conditioners help reduce the chances of getting dehydrated by optimizing room temperatures so that you sweat less and avoid losing a lot of body water. With regulated room temperatures, people are able to sleep better. And finally, the clean air from air conditioners means minimum chances of asthma attacks for those people living with this condition. Other benefits come with air conditioning units in our homes, for example, you will not need to open the doors or windows hence minimum noise from outside especially those living along the streets.

For proper air conditioning installation and care, contact air conditioner service Toowoomba.

A Career Path to Become an Interior Designer

Some people naturally have a knack for designs and that is the first indicator for becoming an interior designer. If you love decorating rooms or arranging furniture then you might want to consider interior design as your dream career. But before you decide on a career in interior design, you must know what it takes to become one and the nature of the work awaiting you ahead. If your dream is in line with room makeovers, or you find it fun and interesting to rearrange and implement new looks in a room or home space, that is a clear indicator that a career in interior design is right for you. As an interior designer, not all will be rosy, you should be prepared to face a myriad of challenges on a case-by-case basis. While some challenges may excite you, some may not be appealing. Here are some of the things you need to know before deciding to sign up for an interior design class:

Things to Keep in Mind

A general knack for designing: The field of interior designs is more involved than the thought of rearranging our interior spaces. Having a knack for interior designs is the right first step towards becoming a great interior designer. There is a thin line separating interior designers and decorators but if you want extensive qualifications in this field you might consider architecture, fine arts, or computer-aided design.

Make it an official qualification as an interior designer: Go to class and attain an official qualification to become an interior designer. Some people might become interior designers without formalizing it but going to class cements your dreams as an interior designer. Get certifications from CIDA to get the fundamentals in this industry. Many colleges and universities are offering a course in interior design lasting about two to three years.

Establish a network: As an interior designer, you need to master the art of networking with other professionals to increase the chances of getting hired or getting projects that require your skills. Work with other professionals and keep up to date with skills and trends so that you remain relevant in the field and all along aspire to develop your style or identity.

Establish a portfolio: To succeed in this field depends on your past work. Make your clients happy and they will refer you to their friends and relatives and that is how you will build your network. A great portfolio will win you new gigs as well as great testimonies from your past clients. Your portfolio should be your selling point to winning more and more customers your way.

Things to note before becoming an interior designer

Understand the difference between an interior designer and a decorator. While decorators might excel by printing and distributing business cards to prospective clients without accreditation, becoming an interior designer requires a formal education with some accreditations from industry players and regulators.

You must have a knack and passion: If you have an innate passion for colours and spatial arrangements, this course might suit you.

Not all is about fabric and colours: While plenty of work in this field involves fabrics and colours, there is more to it that you can learn to become an excellent interior designer Sydney.

It is not as lucrative as you think: You will learn to hustle while in this field. There will be no steady stream of income, well at least not so fast. Other factors go into how much you can make as a designer including; location, education, experience, and the company size.

Tips for designing the best custom curtains in Sydney

Do you want to change the way your room looks. If you are not too keen on spending a whole lot of cash then a window treatment would be the best option for you. However it is important that you pick curtains which are right for your requirements and your space. The following are a few helpful tips which can help you pick the perfect drapes every time.

Although curtains may not put a strain on your budget it doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t have to consider it either. In fact it is essential that you first contemplate the kind of look that you are aiming for. You would also need to consider the scale and placement of the window. When you have all the things listed down it would be easier for you to make a budget. Larger Windows would require a continuous draping or even if you have very tall ceilings you might have to invest a great deal in the fabric. However when you are going for a custom curtain the price tag is going to be considerable higher. However the finished look would be exclusive for your space and style. This is why most homeowners prefer custom window curtains for their homes.

Although there are a variety of ready to hang curtains available in the market you still can come off with budget friendly custom curtains if you are careful about the kind of fabric and drape that you are choosing. It should be kept in mind that Silk curtains or curtains made from velvet are quite expensive. You can still choose to go for curtains which are available in faux fabrics. These tend to have an expensive look and won’t be too heavy on your pocket either.

When you are choosing a custom curtain you would need to understand what appeals to you when it comes to home decor. You can even do a bit of virtual room hunting. The best place to do so is Pinterest or Instagram. Take a look at the different colors, varieties and fabrics which are available. If you are looking for a minimalistic and clean look you would prefer more neutral shades. However if you are looking to add color or transform your room then you might need to step outside the comfort zone and try some bold colors or patterns.

You may also need to consider the thickness of the curtain. You can either go for sheer, opaque, lined and blackout. The thickness you chose would depend upon the room that you are picking the curtains for. If you are going for sheer curtains this would be ideal to be layered on top of already existing blinds or shades. However this can be used as a standalone window treatment as well to create an ethereal and soft look.

On the other hand opaque curtains provide enough privacy and also help filter of the light. However if you are looking for complete privacy and light blocking along with energy efficiency, then you must go for lined or blackout curtains.

Check out the website of Lifestyle Curtains to see their various designs and materials available.

Important facts about complying development

Complying development in the Fast Track process carried out by the Council or an accredited certifier. It is the planning and construction approval and is applicable for homes commercial projects and industrial projects. Any alterations or additions made to house or an industrial building would require complying development.

 If you are in a hurry to get the project approved you can place an application under the fast track complying development pathway. The process can take as little as 20 days and allows homeowners to save a considerable amount of cash when they build their home under the complying development. Savings on renovations are also considerable when you get a Fast Track approval.

What is complying development required for?

Complying development generally includes large building work which does not come under exempt development. It is important to get a sign of a building professional or a certifier. In order to get the compliance development certificate you need to get an approval regarding the construction period.

The following are examples of projects complying development

  • Building a one or two storey home or the building of a granny flat on an already existing site
  • Complying development is also required for any sort of earthwork or the building of a structure on a residential or commercial property.
  • It is applicable when building a fence or a swimming pool. Plus if there is a development of any water way structures or carrying out of subdivision, the compliance needs to be obtained before work is carried out
  • Development of a home based Enterprise also requires the permission. Certain home renovations might also require the building approval

In order to get a complying development approval you can apply online. You can contact the local Council when applying for a CDC and they will let you know of documents that are required. You would then be required to register with the planning portal to jumpstart your application.

You need to submit a certificate of title along with the site and design plans. All other documents which are relevant to the building specifications need to be submitted to the certifier or the Council.

General requirements for complying development

Complying development is not applicable on a land which lies within a heritage or a conservation area. However there are certain exceptions but you may need to go through the relevant development standards for further information. The same is applicable for land which is reserved for public purposes. If a land lies in a buffer area or a river front area, any other ecologically sensitive area the CDC approval will not be granted.

It is important to talk to your neighbors before receiving an approval and again when the construction starts. If you are looking for the FastTrack route you may need to provide your neighbors with two notifications. The first would include the pre approval notification which would comprise of talking to your neighbors about the development process despite the fact that it might be big or small. It is a good idea because it can save you the trouble of any untoward situations later on.

Why should you hire a professional company for outdoor blind installation?

When you are a homeowner, there is so much on your plate, and everything should be done the right way. One of the duties that you have is making sure that all your indoor and outdoor spaces are made to look just the way you want them to look. Most people have an easy time when it comes to enhancing the looks of their indoor spaces but have a tough time making their outdoor spaces look attractive.

There are so many ways to enhance your outdoor spaces’ beauty, just like indoor spaces. All you have to do is be creative and decide on how you want these spaces to look. Also, you can make them more comfortable by adding certain features like outdoor blinds. There are several outdoor blinds Gold Coast that you can install in your outdoor spaces depending on the kind that is best for you. 

Why look for a professional to help you with the installation?

Installing outdoor blinds can be a hectic activity for many homeowners, and therefore, most of them will have to look for a company that installs the blinds to help them out. Apart from being hectic, there are other reasons why you should look for a professional company that offers outdoor blind installation services. Some of these reasons are discussed in the following section.

  • The company offers expert installation services

Installing outdoor blinds can be complicated, and this is why you need someone who knows how to go about the whole process. An outdoor installation company can help you since they have all it takes to do the job. The job tends to be simpler to them, and therefore, they will offer you expert services. This is because they have earned so much experience for the time they have been offering these services. They can handle every project process with a lot of expertise, and therefore, you have nothing to worry about.

  • It is cost-effective

When you have a company that will help you during the outdoor installation project, you have nothing to worry about when it comes to wasting money. The company has professionals that will help you with doing the estimations of the projects. They will also help you in selecting the best blinds for your outdoor spaces. This means that you will be spending your money on the right blinds. The elimination of any mistakes makes sure that you do not spend more money than you should do. For this reason, hiring a company for outdoor blind installation is cost-effective.

  • Perfect finish

If you want to have the perfect finish with your outdoor blinds, you should let an expert help you install the blinds. This makes a professional outdoor blind installation company the ideal match for this job. The company has experts that will never offer you a shoddy job that ruins the atmosphere you will be trying to make. Instead, they will make sure that they help you enhance the look of your outdoor spaces by giving them a perfect finish.

  • It saves time and makes the task easy

The other reason to hire a professional company for the outdoor blind installation project is that it saves time and makes the task hassle-free. This is because you will have an expert doing the job perfectly, which means that no mistakes will be made, costing you more time. Also, you have nothing to worry about regarding how the work will be done. The outdoor blinds will enhance the look of your outdoor spaces without any hassles.

What to look for in the company?

As you look for an outdoor-blinds installation company, there are things that you have to look for in the company. They include the company:

  • Reputation
  • Level of experience
  • Creativity and innovation
  • Cost of services
  • Location
  • Quality of services

House Builders Bundaberg: what questions you need to ask your contractor

When you are about to get a new home you may be on the lookout for house builders in Bundaberg. Hiring a qualified contractor is a crucial part of such projects to be successful. You should be on the lookout for someone who is trustworthy and has a good reputation as well as has an experience to design the home that you desire.

You might need to interview at least three or four contractors before you come at A final decision. The following is the list of questions which every homeowner should ask the building contractor before signing them up.

List of questions for house builders Bundaberg

  • The first thing you need to ask them is how long they have been in the construction business. A contractor who has experienced the system of building and control would know the best way to work and would ensure that the work within a budget provided by the client.
  • Make sure that you do your research when it comes to hiring contractors near you. You can ask them about their area of specialization. It should be kept in mind that not all builders work on the same kind of designs and if there is a particular kind of design that you have in mind the need to hire a builder who would be able to handle it the best possible way.
  • The next question should be about them having a contractor license. Each city and state has a different requirement when it comes to contractors obtaining their license or credential. Since you are the one hiring the contractor it is important for you to go through the proper channel and find out whether they are certified to perform in their field of expertise.
  • Do keep in mind that the contractors do not handle the whole project on their own but rather they lease it out to different sub contractors. It is important that store subcontractors are licensed as well. Besides that you should also ask about the certificate of insurance. This is my running a financial background check is important. The right contractor would have a workers compensation along with the liability insurance because the kind of job that the perform requires them to do so.
  • Last but not the least you should ensure that you have a detailed talk with them regarding the budget that you have in my. If you are looking for a home which is within your budget you need to tell it to your contractor. If you cannot spend a great deal of money make sure that will let them know this before hand only. There are some builders who specialize in designing budget homes. You could also go for a builder who designs modular homes and would therefore be the perfect choice for you. Still it is best to keep in mind that the home project can run into expenses and therefore you should allow your builder to have some sort of freehand.

Contact JRZ homes in Bundaberg for assistance in planning, designing, and building your home.

The many advantages of exterior and interior stone cladding

Stone cladding is quite popular with homeowners. In fact there are many interior decorators who prefer stone cladding over other home improvement options. the main reason is that stone cladding offers a durability to the walls especially when it comes to external application. Since it is durable it becomes resistant to breaking and shipping when compared to other walling material such as concrete. It is also resistant to all kinds of harsh weather conditions and requires very little upkeep.

What is stone cladding?

Applying on layer of natural or artificial stones on to the walls is known as stone cladding. It can be used in the interior as well as exterior of a home. It is usually done to reduce the weight of the natural stone which is used in buildings and can also help lower the construction cost. however there is more to stone cladding than meets the eye. It is also a popular home improvement because it gives a natural yet elegant look to the walls while also making them more durable.

How much does it cost?

Cost of stone cladding depends on number of factors which include the following

  • It would depend upon what is exactly are you looking to build and the material that you are going to use for cladding the walls.
  • Another factor would be the cost of the skilled labor in your area.
  • It would depend whether you are using natural stones of fabricated panels which are designed from plastic or fiberglass resin but actually look like stone.
  • The kind of stone which you are using would also have any impact on the cost. If you plan on using sandstone it could be generally less expensive when compared to marble or granite.

You can easily make your home look like as it has been designed from stone by simply putting of these panels. On the other hand if you are more inclined towards the natural stone cladding you could simply have it mortared in the form of traditional slabs or chunks against the wall.

Usually a contractor might use stone veneers, a process which involves thin slices of stones been glued to the standard walls. These tend to be much lighter than using building stone and are ideal to be used on walls which are not too sturdy. This is why the contractor doesn’t have to worry about reinforcing the wall.

Benefits of stone cladding

It comes to the benefits of stone cladding the first and foremost is the aesthetic appeal which it provides. You generally do not have to stone clad your entire home. It also offers insulation which makes it an ideal green improvement for homes. The insulation can help lower the electrical bills. It is also fire and moisture resistant and if you live in a area which is prone to harsh fires you can rest assured that your home would be prevented from a fire hazard.

For more information on stone cladding make sure that you talk to your contractor today.

Planning to build a new house? Here’s what you need to know when you knock down and rebuild in Brisbane

It is a fact that you can knock down and rebuild your own house in Brisbane, but it is equally true that it takes a lot of knowledge to do so. This is because the building in such a manner requires access to many different types of materials and supplies that must be bought or procured regularly.

Once you have all of the essential supplies on hand, it is time to get to work on your knockdown and rebuild project. When you start this type of renovation, you will end up with a whole new look and feel for your home. One of the primary objectives of this kind of renovation is to make it more energy-efficient. This is something that cannot be accomplished without the right supplies. For example, during the new home construction, it is likely that a significant amount of heat escapes through windows, doors, and even insulation. A good set of replacement windows can significantly improve your energy efficiency, thereby saving on your utility costs.

Another important supply that will be needed during a knockdown and rebuild process is the right demolition equipment. In addition to the proper demolition tools, many hazardous materials should not be used in any demolition situation. One of these includes asbestos. This is a material that is linked to many health problems. However, if the demolition company you choose to use has received special training that instructs them not to use this material, no harm can be caused. If the demolition company uses asbestos in your knockdown and rebuild, several different methods will be used to remove the asbestos from the walls.

There are two ways that a demolition team can remove the asbestos from your home. First, they will break through the exterior concrete slab that is located above your old home. To do this safely, the workers will need the assistance of an excavator. Once the old home has been demolished, the debris must be removed from the area without hurting yourself or those around you.

When you are doing a knockdown and rebuild in Brisbane, you do not have to worry about the workers’ safety who will be working on your property. However, you need to make sure that they have received the proper training on handling any situation that they may find themselves in a while working. Even if your existing home does not have a history of dangerous conditions, there may still be things in your house that could cause injury to you or others.

A great knockdown and rebuild job would include new carpeting in every room in your house. The old carpeting should be removed and thrown away along with old furniture, household chemicals, and anything else that will not decompose over time. The renovating and rebuilding team’s goal is to restore your home to its original look so it will look as great today as it did years ago. This will give your new room a nice clean, modern look while making your old home look like nothing ever happened.

You need to choose the right knock down rebuild builders in Brisbane for renovation. Many contractors out there will say they have the skills needed to complete this type of work, but most of them are not well suited for this type of job. You want a good contractor who has experience tearing down old homes to put up a new one.

Reasons why you should buy gazebos

A gazebo is a structure utilised by a business as a type of showcasing methodology. Gazebos have the business’s brand engraved on them to publicise an offered organisation’s results to the close by individuals.

Advantages of gazebos

Gazebos are picking up fame in the promoting and publicising area. The significant motivation behind why it is rapidly picking up notoriety is a result of its capacity to contact numerous individuals at definitely no expense. There are numerous different advantages that a business gets by purchasing a gazebo. Coming up next are the merits of the pavilions to the business.

  • You can utilise it to sell products

Not exclusively would you be able to utilise gazebo for showcasing reason, yet also showing and selling your organisation’s item over the counter. An individual can be impressed by the brand shown by the gazebo and choose to move toward the tent with a point of purchasing an item. In this way, the items ought to consistently be conveyed alongside such sorts of clients.

  • They are flexible

 A Gazebo can be utilised to achieve different errands. Additionally, they can likewise be immediately reached out to meet the necessity of a specific function. This makes it appropriate for some functions.

  • Gazebos are savvy

Marquee gazebos offer modest methods for promoting your business items and administrations to an enormous gathering of individuals, including explorers, road users, and others. A portion of the promotional techniques are costly and need a ton of cycles to actualise.

  • They are helpful methods for promoting business products

They are a generally helpful strategy for advertising an organisation’s image to an immense mass without any expenses brought about—the vast majority like to peruse data all alone without being taken through by a promotional manager.

  • They are effectively adjustable

A gazebo can be effortlessly changed to suit a specific function since they have many side and back choices that can assist with breaking the dreariness of a similar tone. The gazebo can be made to coordinate the shade of the function to make it more stunning.

  • Easy to mount

A Gazebo is collected in a couple of straightforward advances that can be aced by any ordinary individual. You don’t need to utilise a group of specialists to assist you with amassing a gazebo. Dissimilar to different sorts of structures that are lasting and expect specialists to manufacture. The gazebo is a magnificent showcasing procedure that each business needs to utilise to be serious on the lookout.

  • Gazebos are effectively observable

It is practically difficult to neglect to see a gazebo initially. They are generally attractive structures with novel tones and pictures that will, in general, pull in numerous on what they are promoting.

  • They are convenient for the help desk

They are valuable to help desk workers with supporting groups entrusted with publicising since they comfort the group. On the off chance that it rains or regardless of whether the sunbeams are excruciating, it is advantageous to sit under a gazebo.

  • They can be effortlessly hauled around

It is advantageous to move around with a gazebo since they are adaptable and can be immediately mounted at any spot without requiring any elaborate preparation. Different sorts of showcasing structures like a bulletin are stable and stand in a single spot. Raising such a structure requires unique instruments and essential skills.

Why hiring builders is a better option

DIY home build can either be an ambitious project or an admirable goal. The numerous DIY videos on YouTube nowadays make the home building look so quick, easy, and cost-effective.

Yet, the real picture is far from pleasant. Acting as your home’s contractor and builder to save money can often end in a lot of grief.

Hiring professional home builders to construct your home is a better and smarter option. The mastery of home builders with the various building systems allows them to do a streamlined process as well as deal with unexpected issues along the way.

The advantages of opting for professional home builders for your house project include:

Better buying power

Homebuilders undertake several home projects in a year and over the years. Being in the home building industry has made home builders develop professional relationships with various suppliers. Their bulk purchases of various building materials and fixtures allow them to get the best discounts and prices with suppliers.

 Buying the same materials and fixtures for a single project is likely to purchase them at the full price. This means that a homeowner gets to save money in terms of material prices when the home project is entrusted to a professional home builder.

Better management of the home project

A DIY home build extracts a tremendous sacrifice from the homeowner in terms of money and time. Taking time away from a day job to devote time to the home building project spells loss of income. This effectively adds to the expense of the home building project.

The better option is to let a professional home builder manage the home project from day 1. After all, it’s the job of home builders to construct homes which means he has all the time to devote to the planning and construction.

Building an entire house is more difficult than you think

Being handy with small construction projects and repairs does not necessarily translate being able to handle an entire house build. Substantial experience and expertise are needed for a house construction project. Managing various subcontractors can be difficult and stressful. It can become an expensive house project with the mistakes committed along the way.

Knowledge and years of experience count

The passion to manage and build home construction projects is a common trait seen in professional house builders. This passion has made them master a lot of building techniques while involved in home construction in a variety of conditions. Unexpected issues and mistakes are better handled by these building experts. Handling the house construction the DIY way could cost you in terms of wasted materials and downtime.

Establish good relationships with excellent subcontractors

The specialisation of subcontractors makes them important team members for any home construction project. However, excellent subcontractors, as a rule, like to work with good home builders.

Working with a reputable house builder lowers the risk for a subcontractor than dealing directly with a homeowner. The strong chance of acquiring top-of-the-line subcontractors is achieved when the house construction project is entrusted to a reputable house builder.

The house design you’ve always been dreaming about can be turned into reality with the help of an excellent house builder. Having a reputable house builder in your corner means a beautifully constructed home that meets all your requirements. Contact us today at Project Home Builders for more information.

How To Reduce Your Energy Consumption At Home


Energy consumption is a problem that is faced by many people all over the world. Many homes suffer the heavy priced bills and upgraded costs in their energy consumption without any fault of their own. This periodic rise in utility bills can put a badly great effect on the general budget of the house. The markets are rarely of help. Hence, it is important that we must do whatever we can about reducing the energy consumption in our homes so that we can do our part in making our bills affordable.

Energy efficient appliances

The first thing that you can do is install energy efficient supplies with the help of an electrician. He will also suggest certain appliances that not only fall in your budget but are durable as he may have the necessary experience. These appliances are the main reason your bills show the numbers you never expected to see. Moreover, with changings easons, some appliances are used more than the others. This can cause that change to occur unexpectedly. But one thing that will not disappoint you are the energy saving supplies. Some of them may be pricey depending upon the size but they will save you from periodic heavy costs.

Smart thermostat

Install a thermostat that can automatically turn itself in case you are sleeping or out of the house for some errands. This will not only save the heat inside the house but also reduce your energy consumption.

Routine behaviour

There are some things that you will need to handle rather than depending upon the electrician’s advice or appliances to do the job. These things include normalizing certain habits into your routine behavior. Foremost of these habits is unplugging devices or appliances when they are not being used. Simply, switching off an appliance is not enough because some devices like the TV, washing machine and others have a stand by mode meaning they are feeding off of energy even if they are not being used. Other than that, you must put a shade over your windows to keep the coolness or warmth inside the rooms. Similarly, close the doors and windows when the heaters or air conditioners are on so as to avoid keeping them running for a long time. Moreover, utilize the appliances with constant care.

Incorporate green power

The cheapest way to reduce energy consumption in a house is to incorporate green power in the house which means using other forms of energy resources like sunlight, wind, water etc to produce electricity. This particular energy resource can be installed within the house by any professional after hours electrician perth you have hired. The costs usually depend on where you buy the product from.

Selling Antiques: Why Choose Antique Furniture?

The antiques are appreciated by connoisseurs and collectors, but not only, even by neophytes who want to furnish their home with a classic touch and fine. In the antiques sector there are different types of furniture and furnishings.

First there are the ancient ones, coming from ancestors; they are objects that families have handed down for generations and that have an economic as well as an emotional value.

All the furniture of the nineteenth century and beyond, the Liberty and Art Nouveau sideboards of the first decades of the twentieth century, but also the post-war kitchens of the grandparents can be included in this collection.

Some passionate and expert collectors recover even older objects, preserving the state of the material with care and through the right products.

Then there are the antique and vintage or shabby chic inspired furniture that are increasingly appreciated and sought after in today’s furnishings.

These furniture components are relatively young, made in today’s era, with a retro style that refers to distant times. The value of antiqued furnishings drops considerably compared to authentic antiques, for this reason they can be found at advantageous prices and affordable for all budgets, for example in flea markets.

Then there are the poor art furniture that, as the word itself says, take up the style of peasant kitchens, country farmhouses, masonry, houses of ordinary people. They are easily recognizable thanks to the extensive use of raw wood, in its natural essence, with simple cuts, sharp and uneven corners, important and solid volumes, without too many decorations or frills.

Currently the Arte Povera furniture has been cleared through customs also thanks to the TV series set in the prairies and kitchens of the ancient noble houses, where wood is the protagonist: cherry wood tables, massive walnut sideboards with display cabinets, beech wall units are all furnishing components that can be found in the dining rooms designed nowadays.

Furnishing with antique furniture means giving a touch of warmth to the house, giving a comfortable note to any room, both in the living room and in the sleeping area.

The shabby chic style, aimed at recovery and recycling, is popular in the bathrooms, through the grandmother’s ceramic bowls which become freestanding washbasins on the wooden bases, the porcelain jugs with which daily hygiene was provided, the free-standing bathtubs, with animal details and brass inserts, the wicker baskets of Provencal taste.

Delivery Services

Because we understand how delicate of a job it is to transport antiques we also offer complimentary delivery services. The cost of this service depends upon the nature and size of the antique that needs to be delivered.

Contact us

For more information please feel free to contact us through our website: brisbaneantiquecentre.com.au. If you have any questions or queries or would like to leave a comment, then you’re welcome to reach out to us. We typically respond within a few working days at the most.