Are you one to follow the pack or do you just like having your interiors up to date? If so, here is your guide to picking a colour to plaster all over your walls this year. PANTONE COLOUR OF THE YEAR CLASSIC BLUE Think blue jeans, blueberries and the sky at dusk. This colour will truly make an impact in your home with its bold presence. Although this shade of blue can make such a statement, it also brings about calmness and reassurance to the space. Because it is such a classic colour, we do not have to worry about it going out of style any time soon. DULUX PREDICTIONS Grounded This colour palette is uncomplicated and simplistic, it is really just a 2020 take on neutrals. Try warm tones… Read More »
LIfestyle Category
With the big day only a few weeks away we are definitely getting into the Christmas spirit. If you are looking for something to bring to the table on Christmas day we have you covered! Here is a list of all the greatest Christmas eats that you need to try this festive season. EDIBLE GIFTS Mini Choc Puddings Ingredients: 100g white chocolate, melted 20 milk chocolate balls with chocolate centres 20 red mini sugar-coated chocolates 40 green mini sugar-coated chocolate Method: Place the chocolate in a sealable plastic bag. Cut off 1 corner and pipe onto the top of the chocolate balls, allowing the chocolate to drip down the sides. Decorate with the sugar-coated chocolates to make holly sprigs. Set aside for 5 mins or until chocolate is set. Spiced… Read More »
The Christmas season is officially here and if you don’t already have your tree or your decorations up here is your guide to styling your home like a pro. THE PERFECT TREE Want your tree to look like the ones in the shopping centres? Here’s how: Set up your tree according to the instructions on the box. Begin decoring with the lights, working from top to bottom. Pick a colour scheme (and stick to it!). Try using colours that complement each other and also suit your interior style. If you are using garland, place that on now, working from top to bottom. Place the baubles on in a zig-zag order, making sure colours are evenly spaced apart. Step back a few times during this process to make sure everything is… Read More »
Now that the cooler weather has subsided and the afternoons are getting warmer it is the perfect time to start spending more time outdoors. As we enter the season of backyard pool parties and Christmas gatherings it is important to ensure our yard is prepped and ‘party ready’. Here is a list of our top tips to get your garden and outdoor area in shape for the summer season. OUTDOOR FURNITURE You will want to choose furniture that is durable enough to withstand the heat and occasional summer storm, but is also practical and suits your needs. Opt for teak or rattan furniture as it is natural, versatile and can handle all different weather conditions. One other great way to help you decide which furniture will best suit your outdoor… Read More »
Are you looking to give your walls a freshen up or a full colour makeover? Spring is the perfect season to do so, the days a longer, the weather is great and who doesn’t want to spend their free weekends DIY’ing. If you have some home improvements and painting on the cards, here is your guide to applying the perfect coat that will endure the test of time. PAINTING PREP Cover all surfaces – Lay down drop sheets to protect your carpets and floorboards from paint splatters and dust. Patch it up – Inspect all walls, doors and window frames for any discrepancies. Fill any holes, gaps around windows, faulty doors, and damaged skirting boards before you commence painting. You should be able to complete all these fixes without calling… Read More »
Since the first stint in 1949, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has bloomed and has now become a well-known event amongst Queenslanders. Created to promote economic activity and tourism, this not so little 10-day festival has provided so much more for the “Garden City”. After smashing attendance records last year, this year’s event is back bigger and better than ever! Here is a breakdown of the events on offer, from wine and cheese appreciated, to garden light shows, there is something for everyone! FOR THE KIDS The Cubby House – With a mega sandpit, DIY workshops, free face painting, cooking activities and gardening tips, the little ones are guaranteed to have a blast while you are enjoying the live music and food of the Heritage Bank Festival of Food& Wine…. Read More »
It is officially Block season, and if you are a fellow Blockhead like everyone else in our office you are probably itching to start your own reno. If you are thinking about giving your property a makeover, or a home renovation has been on the cards for a while, here are a few things you will want to know before you dust off the tools and start demolition. WHERE TO START 1. Designing and Planning: Keep it simple and try to set your budget from the beginning. Also, try to be firm and final with your decisions within this planning phase. If you decide on these things early, you can avoid unexpected costs that may arise. 2. DIY or Hire The Pros: Discuss whether you are going to do the majority of… Read More »
About to move into a new place, or are you moving out for the first time? Here is a comprehensive list of everything to need to know to make the move a little more bearable. Forget the moving horror stories, by implementing a plan and utilising these tips and tricks, you can make moving house a piece of cake! BEFORE THE MOVE Utility Connection: The last thing you want is to move into a house that doesn’t have any electricity and you are unpacking in the dark. Make sure you call your energy provider and give them your details and connection dates before you move into the property. The connection process may take a couple of business days, so make sure you have given the provider ample notice. While you… Read More »
Want to get a head start on your spring cleaning? Here are our top tips and tricks on how to get your home looking sparkling clean going into the warmer months. So let’s start at the top: KITCHEN Stovetop and Stainless Steel – Opt for organic cleaning produces and microfibre cloths when cleaning these surfaces. Products with citruses will have the ability to breakdown grease and grime, while the microfibre clothes will help buff out marks and leave a streak-free shine. Sink – Quickly eliminate bacteria and get your sink sparkling with this hack. Sprinkle bicarb soda in the sink and scrub with warm water. After some scrubbing and a bit of elbow grease, you will start to see your sink sparkle. Wooden Bench Tops –… Read More »
It is not always fun and games living with a group of friends. Weekly games night can soon turn sour if someone has disobeyed the household rules. Here are some ideas you can implement to ensure things run smoothly in your share house. Firstly, it is super important to establish a set of ground rules early on. It is also important to have open communication with your housemates on a daily basis. This will ensure there are no awkward run-ins or any bottled up feelings. TOP TIPS TO KEEP THE PEACE MAKE A ROSTER Cleaning, cooking, whatever it may be, make a roster and take turns sharing the load. Write it up and stick on the fridge for everyone to refer back to. This will help… Read More »