Ask an expert
Each issue, we’ll find stylish solutions to all your decorating and design dilemmas from those in the know
Wayd Munro is the builder on our renovation specialists Panel (for more on the Panel, turn to page 108). Here, he offers the pros and cons of traditional and gas fireplaces.
QI don’t know if I should install a traditional fireplace or a gas alternative in my home. What should I take into account? Alex, via email Gas fireplaces offer convenience. They ignite with the flick of a switch and turn off just as easily. They also have fans installed to help push the heat into the room, and they don’t smell like smoke. Traditional fireplaces, on the other hand, require a lot more work. You have to get them going, tend to them throughout the evening and then clean up afterwards. When it comes to installation requirements, a traditional fireplace will be more difficult to install due to more Building Code rules (especially regarding chimneys and flues), but a gas fireplace will need a gas and electrical feed. Overall, a gas fireplace’s pros include safety and convenience, but they can be noisy and many people just don’t like the look of them. A traditional fireplace can be a little more labour intensive and more difficult to set up, but they’re a very inviting addition to a living zone. How can I decorate a tiny powder room? Sarah Blessing, via Facebook “For tiny spaces, careful consideration must be given to each element. There’s no room for superfluous decoration,” says Kate Connors of Kate Connors Interiors (kateconnors.com). “Consider a concealed cistern toilet; by framing and tiling in the cistern, you could create a shelf or wall niche above. Alternatively, install floating shelving above the toilet for display storage. Tiles don’t have to be floor to ceiling if it’s not a wet area, so you could use a feature paint colour above the tiled area (as shown above). Also, make a statement with tapware. Try Olde English style if it suits the era of your house or something more contemporary, such as matt black, aged brass or copper, depending on your scheme. If you have some height in your ceiling, opt for a beautiful pendant light – don’t just settle for the standard oyster light fitting.”
QWhat skirting board size would suit a small home? Should I use the same size in each room? @literaryemma, via Instagram “If your home is on the smaller side with the standard floor-toceiling height, we recommend a skirting profile that is about 67mm high and with a thickness of 11mm to emphasise the height of the room and make it look bigger,” says Paula Moussa of Porta (porta.com.au). “However, you may opt to use a higher skirting in the entrance hall and then a smaller profile of the same design in the bedrooms. To create contrast, select a more decorative but smaller architrave profile around the doors to complement your skirting and overall design.”
QI want to style up my paredback living space for winter – where do I start? Jen, via email “The best way to achieve a cosy living area for the cooler months is to layer lush textures,” says Lisa Tilse of We Are Scout (we-arescout.com). “Mix darker tones with brights, or stick to a light Nordic-inspired palette and ramp up the snuggle factor with textural fabric and knits. Starting with the floor, choose a thick rug that will be warm underfoot. I love Olli Ella’s ‘Too Much Sugar Beni’ rug (top). Next, layer up your sofa with throws and cushions. Go for velvet this season – it’s big on both style and warmth – and include pompoms, tassels and fringes for interest and texture; Kip & Co has a great range. Finish off your welcoming winter haven with Castle jumbo floor cushions (above) or a big bean bag.”