split level 2

Building a Split-Level Home on a Sloping Block

Found the perfect location for building your dream home, but it’s a sloping block? No worries, such a block shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. One of the best and highly experienced construction companies and residential builders – Liona Constructions – has the expertise needed for both dealing with all of the complexities and challenges and getting the benefits of building on a block on an angle. Just read on to find out more.

The Challenges of Building on a Sloping Block

Professional home builders Brisbane companies, like Liona Constructions, know how to deal with the major difficulties of building a split-level home including:

1. Access

One of the major challenges residential builders face when building a new home on a sloping block is getting clear and easy access, particularly when heavy machinery is required on the building site. Hence, it’s important to hire expert builders Brisbane company to ensure your home on a steep site is built properly.

2. Drainage

When it comes to slopes, drainage can either be a problem or a benefit. In other words, such a block could either naturally drain water away or require additional water tanks, pumps, and pits to funnel water away. So, ensure you ask construction companies about this issue before deciding who to hire.

3. Excavation

Generally speaking, there’s definitely more work required in preparing a block on an angle when compared to a flat block. The ground type also plays a huge role. For example, rocky ground is more challenging than soil. Plus, excavating can also affect erosion and draining. That said, working with professional residential builders is crucial.

The Benefits of Building on a Sloping Block

On the other hand, building a split-level home on a sloping block provides many different benefits if built by the right home builders Brisbane company, like Liona Constructions. The main advantages include:

1. Natural Light

When building a house on a slope, you’ll ensure your home absorbs plenty of natural light. This is so because your home will be built on several zones which will enable sunlight to pour in. Therefore, ask your residential builders to use large windows to be able to fully enjoy this benefit.

2. Extraordinary Views

Secondly, you can enjoy some breathtaking sweeping views of your neighbourhood and the surrounding scenery when having your split-level home built on a slope by a professional home builders Brisbane company. Imagine how beautiful it would be to be able to see the city skyline, coastal views, amazing sunsets, etc. thanks to the height of the slope.

3. Original Designs

Finally, your split-level home can never be a cookie-cutter house in the suburbs because it requires some unique design elements. For example, homes on a sloping block may include voids and high roofs, multiple levels to separate your living spaces, layered landscaping, and a great wraparound deck to enjoy the views.

The bottom line, building on a sloping block comes with its advantages, as well as disadvantages. Luckily, if you hire qualified and expert residential builders you can make sure that the disadvantages are properly managed and that you’ll be able to get the most of the benefits. So, contact Liona Constructions today!

narrow block

What to Consider When Building a New Home on a Narrow Block

Without a shadow of a doubt, block sizes across Australia are getting smaller and smaller, especially in urban areas close to the city centre. Although there’s an option of moving to the suburbs or some regional location, that lifestyle simply isn’t for everyone. Those people will definitely choose a smaller parcel of land in the city to enjoy all the benefits this lifestyle offers.

For that reason, one of the leading residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – Liona Constructions – has decided to share some tips on building a new house on a narrow block. So, let’s have a look at what things you need to consider when planning your house design without impacting the functionality of your home.

1. Eliminate Walls

According to expert residential builders, an open plan living space is essential when building your new home on a narrow lot. Hence, ensure your home design includes a spacious open area with the living room, kitchen, and dining room combined. By doing so, you won’t have to worry about not having enough room to gather the entire family.

2. Let the Light In

Another thing to consider is natural light. Homes built on smaller blocks need as much light as possible because it will make the rooms feel bigger than they really are. On the contrary, dark spaces shrink the perception of space. Therefore, ask your home builders Brisbane company to include more windows and glass options like skylights, glass doors, or a window splashback instead of tiles in the kitchen.

3. Opt for Light Décor

Avoiding dark colours is yet another thing you should do when designing and building a home on a small inner-city block. Since you are trying to fill your home with natural light it would be contradictory if you include darker fixtures, fittings, and décor. Yet, this doesn’t mean that you should give up on your style. In other words, if you are fond of darker tones, try featuring smaller elements like vases or cushions instead of a big dark couch or an entire wall painted in a dusky tone.

4. Take Advantage of the Outdoors

In general, narrow blocks are usually quite long which means that there’s enough yard space to play with. Making the most of the outdoor space you have will not only add an extra living area to your home but also allow you to enjoy the great Australian weather. Just ensure that your outdoor room is properly covered (ask your residential builders for recommendations on material) and include a sitting area with a barbecue for perfect entertaining.

The bottom line, you don’t have to compromise on functionality when building your new home on a narrow lot. You just simply have to hire some of the highly qualified and experienced residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – Liona Constructions.

flooring liona 2

How to Choose the Right Flooring Materials

When designing a new home, professional and experienced residential builders always stress the importance of flooring because it helps to create mood and flow and add texture and colour throughout the house.

That’s why you’d better contact one of the leading residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – Liona Constructions – when planning to build a new home or renovate your current one. By doing so you’ll not only ensure that you’ve made the right flooring choice but also get the best service possible.

Now that you know which home builders Brisbane company to contact, let’s move on and explore some flooring options you should consider. Tiles, carpet, and timber flooring are the three go-to options. But, you have to think about each room separately and consider whose room it is going to be or who’s going to use it.

For instance, hardier flooring materials are a suitable choice for children’s rooms, especially younger kids. Similarly, when choosing the right flooring for the living area, the kitchen, and other high traffic zones, residential builders recommend choosing more durable flooring materials.

Here are the top three flooring options:

  1. Floorboards

Without a shadow of a doubt, timber floors are always in style. They do not only provide a timeless appeal but are also durable, easy to maintain and clean, and over time become more resilient. However, they may not be the best options for homeowners with pets or those who like entertaining a lot since claws and heels can scratch timber floorboards. Still, with the right help from professional home builders, like Liona Constructions, you can enjoy this flooring option thanks to the advice provided on special finishes and maintenance to keep floorboards in shape. And, as there’s a wide range of floorboard looks you can choose the one that suits your home design most and the one that fits your budget too.

  1. Carpet

The second flooring option used in many houses for the quieter parts of the home is carpet. This soft and cosy option is perfect for bedrooms, kid’s rooms, home cinemas, or offices. Many also prefer having carpet in the living area, however, if you choose this flooring option for the high traffic areas expert residential builders warn that you have to be prepared for shading and frequent replacement. What’s more, carpet options are indefinite as you can choose whatever colour, texture, and style you prefer. In fact, there are cut pile carpets that actually feel extremely gentle and soft under your feet, just like velvet. Yet, if you’re looking for something more durable, loop pile carpets are the right choice since they are hard-wearing and easy to clean.

  1. Tiles

Last but not least, home builders point that hard flooring is a necessity when it comes to wet areas like bathrooms, mudrooms, and kitchens. But, there are also plenty of tiles to choose from such as porcelain, ceramic, or marble. That said, when choosing tiles you have to seriously consider the colour, pattern, texture, and size you want in your home. To help you make the best decision, here are some examples:

  • Large tiles in light colours make the room more spacious since they reflect light.
  • Dark tiles are the best if you want a more contemporary and dramatic bathroom look.
  • Reflective gloss tiles add a luxurious and sophisticated mood to the room.
  • Smaller and patterned tiles are used in kitchens and bathrooms to create focal points.

The bottom line, to ensure you get the look you desire, you should seek professional help. So, don’t hesitate and contact Liona Constructions today!

window frames 2

How To Choose The Right Windows And Window Frames For Your Home

Windows aren’t only important for the visual and aesthetic look of your home but also contribute to lightness, ventilation, and energy efficiency. That said, if you are planning on renovating your current home or building a new one, contact one of the best residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – Liona Constructions – to ensure you pick the perfect materials and design for your home.

Window Frame Materials

In general, there are two frame material options to consider, aluminum and timber, both of which provide some advantages worth considering. Hence, let’s have a closer look at them.

The greatest advantages that aluminum windows offer are affordability, durability, and low maintenance. They also contribute to energy efficiency when double-glazed windows are installed. And, you can choose from a great range of designs and finishes to fit your overall home style, especially if you want a more contemporary look.

On the other hand, if your home feels more traditional, practical, and elegant, you should go for timber windows to add extra warmth and character to space. What’s more, you can either paint or stain timber windows to ensure they perfectly complement both the exterior and the interior of your home.

Window Frame Styles

Ask any professional home builders and they’ll tell you for sure that choosing the right window frames is one of the key elements for the overall house design. Hence, as soon as you choose the material, you have to pick the right style based on the local climate, room size, shape, and orientation.

  1. Round Windows

If you prefer a more traditional look, then you should go for round windows that add a special architectural character to your home similar to the Gothic or Victorian-era buildings. They fit perfectly in coastal homes, adding a nautical feature.

  1. Picture Windows

These windows are designed specifically to add spaciousness to the room and allow for an unobstructed view of the outdoors since they do not have breaks or visible frames. They are a perfect choice for those who enjoy nature.

  1. Louvre Windows

Louvre windows are a popular choice of homeowners who prefer their house to feel airy and well ventilated. They consist of thin strips of parallel glass attached to a track that can be either opened or closed at once.

  1. Sash Windows

Sash windows are one of the top styles among those who enjoy a more traditional look. They are made up of one or more panels arranged vertically that can be moved separately. And, although they are traditional, contemporary interpretations are becoming popular too.

  1. Slider Windows

Side-by-side glass windows which move horizontally are called slider windows, the number one style of mid-century homes. So, if you like or are a fan of the 50’s and 60’s era, then you should definitely go for slider windows.

  1. Bi-fold Windows

Finally, although this style is common in restaurants and bars, it is growing in popularity in new homes because these windows can be opened up concertina-style which allows easy airflow and creates an illusion of a larger space.

Given the fact that there are many things to consider when choosing the right windows for your home, contact the ultimate residential builders in Brisbane – Liona Constructions – and ensure you get the best advice.

liona constructions

Freestanding Baths: Why They Are So Popular

Whether you are renovating or building a new house, the most critical considerations are features that can add value to the property. Updates to the bathroom can be one way to increase the home’s value. Are you interested in the latest trends for bathroom updates? Today, freestanding baths make one of the best choices when it comes to bathroom design and upgrading.

What makes the freestanding baths the best choice when upgrading your property?  This post looks at top reasons to consider the freestanding baths in your next bathroom update project. Keep reading to discover why the freestanding baths are so popular.

1.      Creative New Designs

One of the top reasons to consider the freestanding bathtub is that it is available in different sleek designs. Freestanding baths are the best choice when you want to create an elegant modern look in your bathroom. Rather than the old-fashioned bathtubs that are available in limited designs, freestanding bathtubs allow homeowners to pick the designs and colors that match the bathroom’s features. If you are looking to add a focal point to your bathroom, talk to home design and build Brisbane for a wide range of styles.

2.      Flexibility

The second reason to add the freestanding tub to your bathroom is flexibility. While built-in bathtubs are often placed against the bathroom walls, freestanding tubs can be added anywhere. This model of a bathtub does not need an adjacent wall for it to be installed. Therefore, if your bathroom has enough space, you can add the freestanding bathtub to any location, giving you more control and creativity with the room’s layout.

3.      Provides a Vintage Touch

If you are looking to give the space a vintage look, freestanding tubs can be the best choice. The style and wide range of colours can add a unique touch to your bathroom. To add this look to your home, talk to a home design and building Brisbane expert to advise you on the best choice of freestanding tubs. They will consider your taste, preferences, and available bathroom space.

4.      Creates the Illusion of Extra Space

Although freestanding tubs use more space than built-in tubs, your bathroom will not look smaller. Installing a freestanding tub gives your bathroom the illusion of additional space. The open area beneath the tub makes the bathroom appear larger than it is. A freestanding tub can make the room feel more open and inviting.

5.      Features Versatile Shapes and Sizes

The freestanding tubs feature many different sizes and shapes to choose from, so they are easy to place in most bathrooms. For example, you can get a compact design suitable for smaller bathrooms or a more spacious freestanding bathtub for a larger bathroom. You can also get the freestanding bathtub set on a pedestal or the floor. For added luxury and creativity, engage the services of Brisbane home design and build experts. They can help you choose the best bathtub for the space available.

6.      Easy Installation

Unlike conventional bathtubs, freestanding tubs are easy to install. Your contractor will not need to build a wall to support the bathtub, nor do they need to install the bathtub in a corner. They are also often less expensive because there is less work involved.

Conclusion

The freestanding tub is a trendy choice when it comes to bathroom upgrade options. It can be the perfect option for bathrooms of all sizes and add extra style to your bathroom design. For added creativity, engage home design and build Brisbane experts to make the perfect bathroom.

home office residential 2

2021 Trends – Four Things to Consider When Designing a Home Office

Lots of people have continued to work from home since the pandemic started. Many businesses even decided to move completely offsite, and in doing so, no longer have an office. If you are fed up with trying to work on the dining table, kitchen island, the sofa, or anywhere less suitable, it’s time you contact one of the best construction companies and residential builders in Brisbane and the surrounding area – Liona Constructions.

Their expertise and highly-professional service will help you design the ideal home office that combines aesthetics and functionality. For that reason, Liona Constructions has come up with the following list of trends and tips to consider when creating your new home office.

  1. Find the Ultimate Quiet Location

First and foremost, before you even start to think about the design of your home office, you have to find the perfect location for it. One easy option to make working-from-home comfortable is transforming a guest room, or whatever spare room you have at home, into a home office. Alternatively, you can find an area in your living space and add a study nook, but this option won’t give you the peace and quiet you need. Ideally, your home office should be away from the hustle and bustle of your home so that you don’t get distracted easily.

  1. Include Feature and Task Lighting Solutions

The truth is, if you ask any professional residential builder about the importance of lighting choice they will tell you for sure that the type of lighting you choose for your home office will affect the mood and productivity. By adding feature lights, you’ll make the space feel more resolved, comfortable, and blended with the rest of your home design. On the other hand, installing task lighting solutions like a table lamp or strip lighting above your desk will help you complete tasks easily even at night, and thus improve your productivity.

  1. Opt for Smart Storage Options

When planning a home office, you need to consider where you can store various office supplies, books, technological gadgets and more. Smart storage is key to every room, including the home office. You wouldn’t want to get up and go to the next room or down the corner just to get the file you need. In a home office, everything should be within reach. Luckily, being one of the ultimate residential builders and construction companies, Liona Constructions knows this and can install custom joinery, shelves, baskets, and drawers  – everything you need to achieve optimal functionality.

  1. Make the Right Desk and Chair Choice

Finally, the most crucial elements for any home office is the desk and the chair. That said, it is important to ensure your desk is the right size, which usually depends on whose using it. For instance, if you are the only one that’s going to use the desk, 1.5 meters wide will typically do the trick. But if you share it with someone else, consider doubling the length. And, regarding depth, it should be a minimum of one meter.

And, when it comes to the chair, ensure you get an ergonomic one that is adjustable, comfortable, and provides support to your back and neck. After all, you’ll be sitting in it for many hours on a daily basis.

Now that you know what you should consider, it’s time you contact Liona Constructions and get the ideal home office you deserve!

 

residential builders

Must-Try Colour Ideas for the Home in 2021

Are you planning on renovating your home? Sounds great, but if you want to get the best result, then you should definitely hire one of the best residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – Liona Constructions.

Their expertise and experience ensures high-quality service. Plus, the team is also knowledgeable about the latest trends in the industry. That said, Liona Constructions made the following list of the 2021 must-try colour ideas for your home.

Top Colour Ideas for your Home in 2021

  1. Soft Colour Palette

If you want to achieve a soft and homely atmosphere, the ultimate residential builders recommend you opt for neutral colours as a base, and then choose one pop of colour to add that extra touch to the space. Alternatively, you can use only one colour and use many shades of it. Here are some examples of how you can incorporate the retreat colour palette in your home:

  • Go for organic

Achieving the organic look will make your home feel cosy and pleasant. Try using different tones of beige, white, and grey with a hint of green for specific details. By doing so, you will find that the space will look larger, welcoming, and nature-like.

  • Embrace luxury

Make your home feel more luxurious by adding some deeper colours like dark blues, greens or deep greys, and a touch of black. However, make sure you don’t overuse them otherwise make the space too dark.

  1. Earthy Colour Palette

Want to calm your mind and reduce stress? If so, when discussing your renovation project with your residential builders or construction company, ensure you emphasize that you want lots of earthy tones. The best thing about these tones, is that they can help you create various moods in a space, from calm to vibrant, depending on how you use them. The following are some examples of how to use earthy tones in your home:

  • Emphasize one shade

Letting one colour shine is a wonderful way to showcase your favorite design piece. Hence, choose one main shade and build the space design around it. For instance, you can paint one wall in a specific shade and use other similar tones for the rest.

  • Make it light

In general, light spaces seem boring. But, if you mix warmer tones with some colder tones you will make your home feel light and crisp, but not cold and boring. The warmer tones will make the space visually calm, but at the same time quite unique.

  1. Contemporary Colour Palette

Finally, try the following ideas with some bolder tones to make your home more energetic and vibrant. Still, you must be careful to use each colour in a measured way. But this won’t be a problem if you contact Liona Constructions and let them make your dreams a reality. Here’s which tones you can use and how:

  • Neutral walls

Painting one wall in one colour and leaving the others white is so old-fashioned now. Instead, pick one shade for the wall you want to emphasize and paint the rest of the room in a lighter, similar tone.

  • Use Complementary Colours

Having the perfect room, with the right mood and atmosphere you desire requires colour balancing. Yet, this doesn’t mean that you should choose only two colours and balance them equally, but you should use one as the main colour and then add another on a smaller scale.

For, any further information or ideas, don’t hesitate – call Liona Constructions today!

Bathroom

Top 5 Design Trends for Bathroom Extensions

What’s the most popular spot in the home for doing renovation or extension work? Well, according to majority of interior designers and home builders, the bathroom remains one of the most popular locations, perhaps because we spend so much time in them! But, before splurging your hard-earned money on a bathroom extension or renovation, here’s a quick peek at a few of the top bathroom extension/renovation trends for 2021.

Nature-oriented Themes

Before giving a new whiff of life into your bathroom, the first thing that you need to do is plan. According to seasoned home extension Brisbane experts, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all technique or method to bathroom renovations or extensions. However, if you carefully consider the bathroom’s design (and costs), no one’s stopping you from attaining your dream bathroom!

For 2021, one of the top bathroom design trend veers more toward nature-oriented themes. Now, isn’t that ironic considering that much of Mother Nature is sadly vanishing from the face of the planet?

Well, one easy way to add that nature-like feel to your bathroom would be to place a large yet tiny number of indoor plants into the area, and use nature-like colors such as green, grey, white and blue.

The Use of More Natural Light

One great way of using more natural light for your bathroom would be to install a glass or fiberglass ceiling on top of the area, which should help you save electricity during the daytime. But when the sun sets, you could use Velux Skylights (or any other type of skylight) to add a classier five star hotel-like feel to the area.

Free-Standing Baths

Another top bathroom extension or renovation trend for this year, according to most Brisbane home extensions experts, is free-standing baths. Why? Well, free-standing baths can quickly turn any bathroom into a five star resort-style area, although this would depend on the available space. Free-standing baths also come in various styles and sizes from round to rectangle, oval, D-shaped and more.

Walk-In Showers

If I were to renovate or reinvigorate my bathroom, I’d probably have a walk-in shower constructed. Why? Because personally, walk-in showers provide a classy, contemporary feel to the area, which would certainly be a show-stopper when it comes to bathroom extensions.

One good thing about having a walk-in shower created is that it’s also safe for kids and the elderly. And, these types of showers are much easier to clean too, because you’ll have less (or nil) nooks and crannies where dirt, mold and mildew can gather or accumulate.

Retro Bathtubs and Wooden Vanities

Who says that the retro designs of the 30s, 40s or roaring 50s is already outdated? In fact, retro bathtubs and wooden vanities are actually one of the top home design and building Brisbane trends for this year.

Bathtubs that look like the ones where Marilyn Monroe or Greta Garbo relaxed, and bathed on, will definitely be in a lot of homes in 2021. The creative use of timber and black oak should give these spaces a woody, retro feel too.

Like any other home renovation or extension theme or fad, bathroom design trends tend to come and go. However, the experts see these 5 trends standing out this year. And with US homeowners expected to spend a whopping $43 billion for home renovation or extension this year, you’ll likely see any of these design trends in your friends or co-workers bathrooms!

Queenslander 2

6 Smart Home Extension Ideas

Are you planning to add a home extension so that you can live in your dream home? Amazing! But what’s holding you back? It’s an intimidating feat there’s no doubt, but with the right company by your side, your dream home will no longer be just a dream! Brisbane new home construction company Liona Constructions can help you through all the steps to build your dream house.

Here are a few home extension ideas you need to consider:

1. You Can Bring the Outside Look In

Make your home reflect your happy mood by bringing the outside in! If you are an outdoor lover, you can opt for a setting that connects you to the garden or your outdoor space. Another great way to bring the outside in is by adding a few greens into your living room to make it look fresh and bright. At Liona Constructions, we focus on creating quality Brisbane new home design, so if the thought of an extension isn’t quite what you want, we can help you with a fresh new home instead!

2. Adding a Deck

If you are a big fan of open living spaces and high ceilings, forget the idea of a small living area – build a deck! There’s nothing quite like a beautiful deck that allows the breeze to flow freely and the sun to shine in. This type of addition provides your family with an extra living area which you will no doubt get lots of use out of. This does not only make your house look visually pleasing but you can have parties and dinner gatherings too. You can also enjoy a great climate along with your favourite meal.

3. Building a Studio

A studio can be a great addition to any home – not just those that love to pain! You can use a studio for a variety of things, and they are particularly lovely when set out in the garden. Building a studio is also a popular choice for anyone who is looking for teenage accommodation or a parent’s retreat. As this area will be away from the house, it is great for your teenage child to study or even practice his/her music. Overall, building a studio will never go to waste as it can be used for some way or the other.

4. A Little above It All

Many people complain about the house they build on a sloping block. You can talk to your planner and ask them about a raise Extension. This will give your house some extra space without taking any of your outdoor space and also make it look super beautiful. You can also use it as a sheltered space.

5. Mixing All Up

Brisbane home extension is an opportunity for an individual to create their design stamp on their home. So, don’t be afraid to mix it up! You can choose to create interesting and different contrasts using a mix of both old and new designs. Go for a few bright and dark effects along with hard and soft materials. Explore your imagination to bring out the best in your home design.

6. Add an Extra Bathroom

Adding an extra bathroom can be one of the most necessary and practical changes you can make to your home. This is not taken into consideration especially when extensions are discussed. Adding an extra bathroom often adds resale value to your home. Not to mention, it will also make life easier for a large family. Talk to your provider from new home construction Brisbane beforehand and get their professional opinion.

Norman Park 2

How to Future-proof Your Home When Renovating

When you are renovating your home, you are either trying to create your dream home or resell it to make more profit. But how can you future proof your property? In this post, we will discuss all the most effective future-proofing ideas for custom home construction Brisbane so that it remains liveable for years to come and more appealing to potential buyers. But before we start with the ideas, we need to point out a few areas that will cover our topic today. These are:

  • Look for the features which reduce the cost and time needed to run your home.
  • Always opt for the technologies that make your space more fun and practical to live in.
  • Make alterations that anticipate the change in the future.

Reduction of Cost and Time

Reduction of the cost will only be possible when we consume less and think smart. Reduction of heating and cooling costs will only be possible when you use the combination of keeping heat or cold out and paying little for the energy. The more you conserve energy the less you pay. But how can you do that? You can opt for all the smart use of insulation, shading, and passive design. You can also go for all the efficient systems that call for installing renewable energy. Brisbane custom home design helps you to find the best solutions according to your needs.

The savings can only be calculated based on your choice of solutions. It might be a big investment right now but in the coming years the savings will make up for it.

Latest Technologies

During renovation, always opt for smart wiring, as it allows you to control a variety of appliances from your phone. You can also invest in Bluetooth appliances. These appliances range from security to other regular home gadgets. As technology keeps evolving, investing in a remote-control appliance is a smart choice. Once the appliances are installed, they can be controlled from your phone or laptop. It is also better to invest in a good security system that provides an ample amount of protection for your family. It might be heavy on the pocket but it will be worth it.

Foresee the Future

As your family keeps evolving, it is important to anticipate and plan for the future. Depending on which stage you are at in your life, you may want to make certain adjustments and create a room for every single need, however this also depends on your budget. Don’t be afraid to add features that make your home suitable for older people too. Create your own separate space according to your needs including bathrooms and bedrooms with the help of Brisbane residential construction.

Bottom Line:

Last but not least is keeping up with the trend. It is good to research and plan out every detail of the house beforehand with your provider. If you are on a budget you can also get great ideas from Brisbane custom home construction.