In the last year we have had requests for our clients who would like a “Hamptons Style” garden. It’s a trend that we think is timeless. A Hamptons style garden is the perfect investment to your home. These two projects South Coast Landscapes completed, we were influenced by the Hamptons style but our clients were after a modern twist. Our first featured project had a little Illawarra coastal touches as they weren’t too far from the beach. Our second featured project was the more traditional Hamptons which is forever timeless and chic.

What is a “Hamptons” style garden?

A traditional Hamptons style garden is quite large and well thought out. It has a mix of hard landscaping, paving and soft landscaping, grass with plants. It’s clean, uncluttered but yet warm and inviting with loads of greenery and non flowering trees/pants. The Hamptons style is all about the open-plan living, where you can throw the doors open from the indoor living to outdoor living.

The colour scheme

All the natural light reflects off all the crisp whites and natural colour palette. Colour Scheme to reach the optimal Hamptons style is to focus on a refreshing palette of greys, bright whites and natural wood and stones. Blending all of this colour palette together makes the area inviting and easy on the eye.

The texture

A variety of small plants and large trees offer texture to soften the larger paved areas. The large trees can also add some extra privacy from neighbours as mentioned in our blog. It is best to pick rich green leaf plants such as Coastal Rosemary, Magnolias, Gardenias.

Decisions on hard landscaping can make all the difference when achieving the Hamptons style garden. An open crispy white pergola with hardwood decking from HINSON over your entertaining area will add that open-plan living feel.

Paving is where your natural colours are incorporated with the white and grey palette. Choosing the right paver can make all the difference. Travertine pavers are our suggested paver to achieve the Hamptons style. They come in different grades ranging from $50sqm to $100sqm. The shades also vary depending on the look you are after from sandstone browns to light whites. The benefits of travertine pavers is they aren’t slippery when wet, the colour won’t fade and they stay cool in under direct sun, perfect for around a pool.

If you have a pool a glass fence will most suitable to keep the open free style continuing from the indoor to outdoor entertaining areas.

Sandstone is a popular choice to face retaining walls such as we have completed for our client. It also complements the weatherboard cladding on Hampton style homes but adding a touch of coastal to suit the neighbourhood.

Keeping in mind the colour scheme and texture balance of hard and soft landscaping we believe these two feature homes have made a big statement. Our clients love the end results and their vision has been brought to life with our hard-working landscape construction team.

South Coast Landscapes creating Hamptons style gardens

Our expert landscape construction team can create your Hamptons inspired garden with a modern twist. We are a Wollongong based landscaping company that specialize in all landscaping needs. Get in touch with our team today and see how we can help you achieve this look too.

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The ideal way to incorporate the indoor and outdoor living space is to use bifold doors. They are very versatile and have large open windows allowing maximum sunlight exposure into the home, giving a sense of considerable size to the living areas. A strategic planting schedule can provide an outlook of green from every window angle, creating a peaceful feel connecting to nature even when indoors.

Another advance of designing indoor and outdoor living its both areas can be used most months of the year. You will be able to cook outside on the great Australian BBQ and enjoy of glass of wine around the fire pit. Heating for the backyard has become more on tend within in the last few years. As decor continues to evolve you are able to style your indoor and outdoor areas with some homely decor. Some outdoor furnishing can have a relaxed, stylish feel but can with handle the elements of the outdoors. To soften the hard materials used in landscaping consider adding plants in pots, hanging plants or a vertical gardens. Succulents or ferns are perfect for a vertical garden, creating lots of greenery and texture. Inside the home consider using indoor plants to add to the greenery in the home, our favourite is the Fiddle Leaf Fig but it can be tricky to look after if you’re the best green thumb.

When designing our outdoor garden and living area, consider where most of your time will be spend and focus your design around the functionally of this area. These questions may come up when in your designing process:

• Will this area need to be separated into different areas?
• Will it be best suited to the indoor outdoor living feeling you are trying to create?
• Will soft landscaping around this area help with the cohesiveness of the design?

If you are after some information on how to create the perfect outdoor area to be cohesiveness with your current indoor living area feel free to get in touch with our team for some further inspiration. We are a local Wollongong Landscaper servicing all of the Illawarra region area. Check out our latest projects here or email us.

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A broken heater can quickly turn a cozy home into an icy cave, but before you panic and call in a professional like Reparacoes24hesquentadores, there are several common problems that can be fixed with a little troubleshooting. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some common reasons why your heater may have stopped working and how to fix them.

Why Conduct Heater Maintenance?

Conducting regular maintenance on your heater is crucial to keeping it running efficiently and avoiding any unexpected breakdowns during the colder months. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris in your heating system, reducing its efficiency and effectiveness. Additionally, regular maintenance can identify small issues before they turn into larger, more costly problems down the road. It’s recommended that you schedule a professional heater inspection and tune-up at least once a year to ensure optimal performance and longevity for your heating system.

Pilot light is out or won’t stay lit.

One of the most common problems with gas heaters is a pilot light that won’t stay lit or is completely out. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot tube, or a gas valve that needs adjusting. First, check to make sure that the gas supply is turned on and the control valve is set to “pilot.” If the pilot light still won’t stay lit, try cleaning the pilot tube to remove any blockages. If these simple fixes don’t work, it’s recommended to call in a professional to diagnose and address the issue. Never attempt to fix a gas leak or repair gas lines yourself, as this can be extremely dangerous without proper training and equipment.

Dirty or clogged filters affecting air flow.

Another common problem with heaters is dirty or clogged filters, which can impact the efficiency of the unit and increase energy consumption. When the filter is clogged, it restricts air flow and makes the heater work harder than necessary. To fix this issue, first turn off your heater and locate the air filter. Remove the cover or panel to access it, and then clean or replace it with a new one if necessary. It’s recommended to clean or replace filters once every month during periods of heavy usage to ensure optimal performance from your heater.

Thermostat isn’t working or faulty wiring is present.

If your thermostat isn’t working or there are signs of faulty wiring, it’s important to take quick action to avoid larger problems down the line. First, check that your thermostat is properly set and turned on. If that doesn’t work, try replacing the batteries or cleaning any dust or debris from the unit. If the issue persists, it may be time to call in a professional for help with wiring problems or replacing the thermostat altogether. Ignoring these issues can lead to reduced efficiency and could even become a safety hazard if left unchecked.

Strange sounds coming from the heater.

Strange sounds coming from your heater can be alarming, but they don’t always signify a major problem. Rattling or banging noises could be caused by loose parts that just need tightening, while whistling or hissing might indicate a blockage or leak in the ducts. If you’re hearing scraping or grinding noises, it’s important to turn off your heater immediately and call a professional for assistance, as these sounds can signal more serious issues like worn-out bearings or a malfunctioning blower wheel. Regular maintenance of your heater can help prevent strange sounds from occurring in the first place.

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Benefits of Designing Outdoor Spaces

Designing outdoor spaces offers a wide range of benefits, including:

1. Increased living space: By creating an outdoor living area, you effectively add more usable space to your home. This can be especially beneficial for families with children or those who like to entertain.
2. Enhanced relaxation: Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being. By designing a beautiful outdoor space, you can create a peaceful retreat that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation.
3. Improved home value: A well-designed outdoor space can increase the value of your home. Potential buyers are often drawn to homes with beautiful outdoor areas that offer additional living and entertaining space.
4. Better connection with nature: Being outdoors allows you to connect with nature, which can have a positive effect on mental and physical health. By designing an outdoor space that incorporates natural elements such as plants, water features, and natural materials, you can create a deeper connection with the environment.

Tips for Creating Your Own Outdoor Oasis

Creating an outdoor oasis doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Define your space: Decide on the function of your outdoor space. Will it be a place for entertaining, relaxation, or both? Once you’ve defined the function, you can start to plan the layout and design.
2. Choose the right furniture: Select furniture that is comfortable, durable, and fits the style of your outdoor space. Consider the materials, color, and size of the furniture to ensure it fits the overall design.
3. Incorporate natural elements: Add natural elements such as plants, trees, and water features to your outdoor space. These elements not only enhance the beauty of the space but also provide a connection to nature.
4. Add lighting: Lighting can transform your outdoor space and make it usable at night. Consider adding string lights, lanterns, or other outdoor lighting fixtures to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
5. Use color strategically: Use color to create a cohesive design in your outdoor space. Consider the colors of your furniture, cushions, and accessories, and choose colors that complement each other and fit the overall design.

Choosing the Right Elements

When designing an outdoor space, it’s important to choose the right elements to create a functional and beautiful space. Here are some elements to consider:

1. Flooring: The right flooring can set the tone for your outdoor space. Consider materials such as stone, brick, or wood, and choose a design that fits the style of your home.
2. Seating: Seating is an important element in any outdoor space. Choose comfortable, durable seating that fits the function of your space and the style of your home.
3. Accessories: Accessories such as cushions, rugs, and outdoor curtains can add color and texture to your outdoor space. Choose accessories that fit the style of your space and are weather-resistant.
4. Water features: Water features such as fountains, ponds, and waterfalls can add a sense of tranquility and calm to your outdoor space. Consider the size and style of the water feature and how it fits into the overall design.
5. Outdoor cooking area: An outdoor cooking area can be a great addition to your outdoor space, especially if you enjoy entertaining. Consider adding a grill, outdoor oven, or even a pizza oven to your space to create an outdoor cooking area.

Conclusion

Designing outdoor spaces offers a wide range of benefits, from increased living space to improved relaxation and connection with nature. By following the tips outlined in this post and carefully choosing the right elements for your space, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor oasis that enhances your home and lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking to create a peaceful retreat or a space for entertaining, designing an outdoor space is a great way to enhance your home and create a connection with nature. So, go ahead and start planning your own outdoor oasis today!

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1: For indoor flooring

Tile is a popular option due to its durability and water-resistance. Ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles can be used to create a stylish look in any room of your home. Vinyl flooring is also an economical choice, offering the same water resistance as tile but with a more cost-effective price point. Laminate flooring offers the natural look of hardwood or stone without the expensive price tag.

2: For outdoor flooring

Many homeowners opt for concrete or pavers. Concrete provides a durable surface that won’t crack under pressure from foot traffic or furniture. Pavers are great for their versatility; they come in numerous sizes, textures, and colors so you can customize your outdoor space to your liking. If you’re looking for a more natural-looking solution, consider using gravel or pea gravel. These materials can be used to create paths or walkways and are relatively inexpensive.

3: Gardening Tips

To keep your floors in great condition no matter what type of material you choose, take some time to tend to them regularly. Sweep up dirt and debris that might have been tracked in from outside and mop any spills immediately. For outdoor flooring, try adding a sealant after cleaning to protect the surface from damage caused by sun exposure or other elements. You may also want to periodically add fertilizer or mulch around plants and shrubs so they don’t become root bound beneath the flooring.

Summing Up

When choosing flooring for both indoor and outdoor use, there are many options to consider. From tile or hardwood to concrete or pavers, you can find the perfect material to suit your lifestyle needs. To keep your floors in great condition year-round, take some time to tend to them regularly with sweeping, mopping, and sealing. With the right combination of materials and maintenance practices, your flooring will last a long time!

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For new turf owners, your able to water for new turf for FOUR WEEKS from installation. There are approved water plans on the Sydney Water website. Keep your delivery docket in case you are questioned by a neighbours or a Water Officer. 

Once it has been established after the four weeks, standard water restrictions apply. If you believe your turf isn’t established you can apply for a possible extension by emailing Sydney water. 

Here is the FOUR WEEK Plan:

Week 1 – New Turf can be watered 3 times a day at a maximum of 30 minutes each time at any time of the day. 

Week 2 and 3 – Turf can be watered twice a day at a maximum of 15 minutes each time. Time restraints are before 10am and after 4pm. 

Week 4 – Once a day for three days that week and time restraints are before 10am and after 4pm for a maximum of 30 minutes. 

Are you aware that drip irrigation and watering systems that have either automated weather adjustment, rain sensors or soil moisture sensors are fine as well under these level 2 restrictions. Please note: drip irrigation systems and smart watering systems can be used for only 15 minutes a day with the same restraints as before 10am and after 4pm. For more information on this please feel free to contact us.  

If you are planning on getting new turf we suggest you choose a resilient t and high drought tolerant turf such as Sir Walter. It is best to mow it a little higher to keep the moisture in the soil. As trimming too short can make sure turf more vulnerable to the effects of the heat. 

We pray for rain too.

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1: Inspect Your System Regularly

No matter where you’re living, it’s necessary to inspect your plumbing system regularly. You should make sure that all of the pipes, valves and fixtures are in good condition. Check for any leaks or breaks in the system which could lead to bigger problems down the road.

2: Avoid Clogs and Leaks

Clogs can be a huge issue when it comes to plumbing, especially if they occur within the main sewer lines. To avoid clogs in your indoor plumbing, regularly pour boiling water down drains and sinks to loosen up any stuck on debris. Outdoor plumbing systems can also experience clogs due to tree roots or other organic material getting into the pipes. Try using a pipe snake or auger to clear the clogs. Additionally, check for any leaks or cracks in your plumbing system and make sure they are properly repaired in a timely manner.

3: Make Sure Your Septic System is Functioning Properly

If you’re living outdoors, then you likely have a septic tank that needs to be maintained on a regular basis. Regular inspections should be done to make sure the tank is functioning properly and not overflowing. The tanks should also be pumped out every two years to ensure that all solids are removed from the system.

4: Clean Out Drains & Pipes Regularly

In order to keep your indoor and outdoor plumbing running smoothly, it’s important to regularly clean out drains and pipes. For indoor plumbing, use a combination of baking soda and vinegar to clear any clogs. Outdoor plumbing systems can benefit from the use of drain cleaners specifically designed for septic tanks.

5: Insulate Your Pipes

If you’re living in an area with cold winters, it’s important to insulate your pipes to keep them from freezing or bursting. This can help prevent expensive repairs down the road. Additionally, be sure to shut off the main water supply when temperatures drop significantly below freezing in order to avoid any serious damage.

Conclusion

Maintaining your plumbing system is important whether you’re living indoors or outdoors. Regular inspections, cleaning and maintenance can help ensure that your plumbing system runs smoothly for years to come. Taking the time to properly care for your plumbing can save you money in the long run, as well as give you peace of mind knowing that it’s functioning properly when needed.

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What is Indoor Humidity?

Indoor humidity levels play an important role in health and comfort. Maintaining the right humidity levels by hiring IAQ Works can help to regulate temperature, protect furniture, and reduce the spread of allergies and pests.

The correct indoor humidity level is between 40-60%. Too low of a level can cause dry skin, while too high of a level can increase the risk of damage to wood surfaces, furnishings, and equipment. To maintain the right humidity level in your home, use a hygrometer or Moisture Meter to measure the air’s moisture content. Once you have determined the required humidity level, make sure to adjust your ventilation and heating systems accordingly.

How to Calculate Indoor Humidity

Keeping your home at the right humidity levels is an important part of staying healthy and comfortable. Indoor humidity levels can affect your respiratory system, allergies, asthma, mental well-being, and more. Here are five ways to calculate indoor humidity:

1. Use a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device used to measure the relative humidity in a room. To use it, measure the temperature in the room and divide the value by 10 to get degrees Fahrenheit. Then multiply that number by 100 to get millibars. Finally, divide that number by 1,000 to get percent.
2. Use a dew point calculator. A dew point calculator uses a graph to determine how many degrees you need for comfort based on your outdoor temperature and relative humidity level. To use it, input the outdoor temperature (in degrees Fahrenheit) and the relative humidity level (in percent). The calculator will then give you an indication of how many degrees you need for comfort.
3. Calculate using equations or charts provided by health organizations or manufacturers of humidifiers/dehumidifiers. There are many equations or charts provided by health organizations or manufacturers of humidifiers/dehumidifiers that can be used to calculate indoor humidity levels easily and quickly.
4. Compare measurements made inside and outside the home using meteorological instruments such as thermometers or weather balloons with sensors that transmit readings every couple minutes so you can track changes over time inside your

Why Maintain a Proper Humidity Level?

In climates where the humidity is high, it’s important to maintain a proper level of humidity. Maintaining a healthy level of humidity can help to keep your indoor air quality good, as well as offer some comfort benefits. In the summertime, when the ambient temperature is high and the humidity is high, it can be difficult to maintain a proper indoor humidity level. However, by taking simple steps you can ensure that your home stays at a comfortable and healthy humidity level all year long.

One way to maintain a healthy indoor humidity level is to use an electronic humidifier. These units emit water vapor which naturally increases the air’s moisture content. When used regularly, an electronic humidifier can help keep your home at a comfortable 70-80% humidity levels most days of the year. You can also use a humidifier in combination with evaporative cooling systems or dehumidifiers in order to achieve even better results.

To increase your chances of maintaining a healthy indoor humidity level during hot weather conditions:

-Open windows and doors for air circulation

-Avoid using appliances in large rooms that generate a lot of heat (e.g., ovens)

-Keep pets cool and hydrated

Tips for Maintaining the Right Humidity Level in Your Home

To maintain the right humidity level in your home, aim to keep the air at between 35 and 50 percent humidity. Too low of a humidity level can cause dryness and irritation, while too high of a level can contribute to unhealthy indoor air quality. To measure your home’s current humidity, use a hygrometer or a humidistat. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to poor indoor air quality, such as asthma attacks, take steps to improve humidity levels in your home. To reduce moisture build-up, open windows during humid weather and use room dehumidifiers when necessary. Finally, make sure your furniture is properly sealed against moisture intrusion and never put objects that produce water vapor such as plants or electronic equipment on furniture that will contact the skin.

How to Adjust the Humidity Level in Your Home

If you’re like most people, you probably struggle to maintain a comfortable indoor humidity level. Too high of a humidity level can cause your home to feel stuffy and sickly, while too low of a humidity level can leave your rooms feeling dry and dusty.

There are a few things you can do to adjust the humidity level in your home:

1. Open Your Windows: A big way to increase the humidity level in your home is by opening up windows. Not only will this help circulate air, but it will also add moisture back into the air. If you have trouble breathing indoors or find that your skin feels dryer in high-humidity environments, opening windows might be the perfect solution for you.
2. Use Fans: Another way to increase the humidity level in your home is by using fans. By moving air around and distributing moisture, fans can help bring down the overall ambient humidity levels in an area. If you have trouble breathing or find that your skin feels dryer in high-humidity environments, consider investing in a fan to help keep things comfortable.
3. Mist Your Air Conditioning unit: In addition to opening windows and using fans, another way to increase the indoor humidity is by misting your air conditioning unit. Misting cools down the room and sends water droplets into the air which then condenses on surfaces like furniture and walls creating an intentional humid atmosphere. This method is especially helpful if you experience extremes

Conclusion

Maintaining the right indoor humidity levels can be challenging in humid climates, but it is important to your health and comfort. Too much humidity can cause wood surfaces to shrink and expand, leading to warping and water damage. Additionally, high levels of humidity can lead to mold growth,acterial overgrowth, and even respiratory problems. In order for you and your household members to stay healthy and comfortable year-round, maintain the appropriate indoor humidity level by following these tips: 1) Check the Relative Humidity Level: To determine how much moisture is present in the air, use a hygrometer or an electronic AccuQuilt meter . This will help you maintain an optimal level of humidity. 2) Open Windows Occasionally: Even if you are maintaining the correct relative humidity level inside your home with mechanical means like fans or dehumidifiers , open windows occasionally for fresh air circulation. This will help reduce airborne moisture levels as well as fight against condensation buildup on cold exterior surfaces.

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Let’s face it the great Australian dream of owning a big backyard is slowly fading as block sizes are becoming smaller these days. Modern families are now building their houses bigger to maximise their living space, they will often sacrifice back yard space for a larger house. This is where designing your small garden with a big statement is so important.

Small gardens can be challenging for landscape designers as most people are after the area to be functional but yet still attractive. There are many elements to think about when creating your small outdoor area such as Hardscaping (paving, decks or walls etc) Softscaping (plants, grass etc) texture and colour. All of these elements are important in creating the perfect small garden or outdoor area and we believe this next project will show you how to bring all of these elements together.

The hard landscaping of pavers and a small retaining wall used in this garden gives our client a functional space to put outdoor furniture. Including a two level area giving the yard height and width rather than just a flat paved area. Here is an excellent example on how to use hardscaping to create a textured contrast of pavers, render and grass.

A small area is great for kicking back and relaxing in the morning or afternoon sunshine. Think about combining other garden elements of soft landscaping to create character and personalise your garden to your individual style. Here we have used several vertical grow walls to create lots of colour and textured tropical plants. Our clients brief was still lots of plants but not all over the lawn. A grow was is the perfect option and didn’t compromise on space.

As our client lives close to the beach an outdoor shower was an excellent idea to use every last bit of space available. What a perfect way to use a hidden corner with a functional purpose.

If you are after more ideas on how to design or personalise your perfect small garden feel free to contact us at info@southcoastlandscapes.com.au

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Beautifully lined trees and manicured grass are instant indicators of well-kept landscape. However, now there’s a way to make your home stand out even in the dark.

This is through the use of landscape lighting.

1. Landscape lighting can help shine a little light on your property. Nothing is worse than trying to fiddle around in the dark while going to and from your car.
2. Landscape lighting can help deter criminal activity. Criminals love the dark because it increases their chances of not being seen. A well designed landscape lighting can provide enough light to deter a criminal from even approaching your property. Keeping your family safe.
3. Landscape lighting can provide a very attractive look to your home. We all know that the better a property looks, the more value it has.
4. Landscape lighting can make your property more identifiable. When your home is lit up with it becomes easier for friends and family to find it.
5. Landscape lighting can also create great ambience for your outdoor entertaining areas. Keeping in mind it is crucial to ensure that there is no glare created from lights particularly fittings that are close to the house or in areas where you will be walking past on a regular basis.

How difficult is it to install landscape lighting?

A qualified landscaper can install your new landscape lighting pretty easily as a matter of fact. It does not require a lot of wiring or tearing up your yard.

If you are interested in adding beautiful lights to your landscape, contact us for a free consultation.

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