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Articles about creation of various dream homes or beautiful renovation of your home by James Hardie team, which helps you to decide best design feels for your house.

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Modern Coastal renovation in Sapphire Beach using Hardie Fine Texture Cladding.

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Learn everything about the planning of some of James Hardie's renovations and collaboration with few partners to execute those plans and come up with the best results.


Checkout some of our Best Renovations till date | James Hardie Blogs

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A well-planned deck
Turning your traditional patio or verandah into an exciting entertainment space is the perfect way to extend your indoor living space into the outdoors. You’ll want to ensure any materials you use are hard-wearing to stand up against repeated use and the elements (from heavy rain to harsh sunshine), and the renovation itself shouldn’t break the bank. Choosing a product like HardieDeck™ means you get all the elegance of a sleek and sturdy deck without the drawbacks of traditional timber. Made from James Hardie’s™ premium fibre cement, the HardieDeck is a stylish addition to any outdoor space. It works just as well for your exterior dining area as it does around the edges of your pool. Outdoor kitchen for entertaining There’s nothing quite like firing up the barbie and inviting friends and family over for a meal out in the sunshine. A kitchen outside is a great way to use your outdoor space, but you need to ensure the materials around it will be able to withstand the hot summer days and rainy weather, and won’t get stained from spills and dropped food. Linea Weatherboard is the ideal choice for an outdoor kitchen – not only is it modern, durable and easy to install, but it’s resistant to shrinking, swelling and cracking. One last thing to remember for any outdoor kitchen: if you plan to install a barbecue on your deck, make sure the flooring is heat resistant and strong enough to support the extra weight of large appliances.

Discover the benefits of James Hardie's Axon™ Cladding - a durable and versatile solution for your home's exterior. Read more about Axon™ Cladding on our blog.

Blog On Axon™ Cladding & Know more about Axon™ Cladding

Axon Cladding

A Modern Farmhouse inspired backyard renovation with Making HOME

When it comes to memorable finishing touches for backyard swimming pools, a well-planned pool house is hard to top. Unbeatable for relaxation, shade and entertainment next to a pool, a modern pool house adds functionality to outdoor living areas and brings loads of design flair to the space.
Someone very familiar with this is Nikki from <a href="https://makinghome.com.au/">Making HOME</a>. Along with her design team and builders, she transformed one family’s dated Sydney backyard into a modern-day oasis, complete with a classic pool house ready to work its socks off. 
“A pool house was always a must-have for this space. We wanted to create a mature outdoor zone for a family with teenage kids who love the outdoors. We only had a small area to work with, but with smart design, we created a pool house that looks as good as it performs,” says Nikki, Director of Making HOME.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/73zE6WnQbUf1bdRc7vQGUv/49d6a2429da701d32ff49404ebbf1667/Alfresco_Pool_and_Spa_MakingHOME3.jpg" alt="Alfresco Pool and Spa MakingHOME3" />
<h2 id="modernfarmhousevisionforthepoolhouse">Modern Farmhouse vision for the pool house</h2>
For the <a href="https://makinghome.com.au/articles/episode-1-alfresco-pool-and-spa/">alfresco, pool and spa</a> area of the renovation, Nikki envisioned a compact pool house that blended classic charm with a fresh modern look, and it needed to tie in seamlessly with the <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/modern-homes-forecast/modern-farmhouse">Modern Farmhouse</a> aesthetic.
“The goal was timeless over trendy and practical over polished. We wanted something really functional and inviting that would welcome with open arms,” says Nikki.
Drawing inspiration from traditional farmhouses and modern coastal builds, Nikki knew that deep, comfy seating was essential. She also prioritised overhead shelter and vision on both sides of the structure to capture views of the house and hills. 
And of course, a glorious gabled roof was non-negotiable. Because nothing says ‘Farmhouse’ quite like the pitched beauty of gables.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/1rVUcfm4m2MpQI21bM8f2x/90c445e2be427a645a29a5cde8e8c328/Alfresco_Pool_and_Spa_MakingHOME2.jpg" alt="Alfresco Pool and Spa Making HOME 2" />
<h2 id="howkeymaterialsbroughtthevisiontolife">How key materials brought the vision to life</h2>
Cladding was a key ingredient in both the integrity of this contemporary yet classic pool house and its overall appearance. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> by James Hardie helped the team achieve the exact look and feel they were after, delivering a timber-like finish with a contemporary twist.
“<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> was the hero product in the making of this pool house and wider alfresco area. It brings so much visual interest and linear texture to the spot without the fuss and maintenance of timber,” says Nikki.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3E4gJh11cCvEA3sidEvNV1/ca37ca55bd0ac77f77ba8afe962a98fe/Alfresco_Pool_and_Spa_MakingHOME.jpg" alt="Alfresco Pool and Spa Making HOME" />
Aesthetics aside, <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> ticked important functional criteria for the team, most importantly resistance to fire and damage from water and termites. Plus, it installed quickly and easily, a blessing for the renovation team who were working within tight industry constraints and rising costs.
“We can’t believe how fast the cladding went up - blink and you’ll miss it! Better yet, all of the cladding arrived pre-primed and ready to paint. This saved our painters time, so saved us money.”
<h2 id="fullyfunctionalformodernliving">Fully functional for modern living</h2>
This pool house was designed with a keen focus on functionality; it had to look great and work hard throughout the long Sydney summer. The layout was tight but it optimises the space well, with careful consideration given to the integration of indoor and outdoor living areas. 
“Connectivity is so important when it comes to indoor and outdoor spaces. We wanted this pool house to have cohesion with the rest of the house - and the exterior cladding was the secret ingredient,” according to Nikki.
Nikki tied the <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> on the pool house back to the undercover alfresco space, which features moments of the same finish combined with <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/hardie-oblique-cladding">Hardie™ Oblique™ Cladding</a> on the main house.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/4nkPFy24rV1L2miUrBEY3U/2b16bca7be98e8b8a3e141e1c8911812/Copy_of_Ep_1_Alfresco_Pool_and_Spa_MakingHOME_000114.jpg" alt="Alfresco Pool and Spa Making HOME" />
“The linear beauty of <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> is incredibly versatile. It’s clean and crisp and blends beautifully with other products in the <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/hardie-architectural-collection">Hardie™ Architectural Collection</a> while delivering its own type of magic. Axon™ Cladding ties this zone to the main house and makes the pool house absolutely shine.”
<blockquote>
 Have you been dreaming about renovating your backyard or home in a Modern Farmhouse style? Explore the complete <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/modern-homes-forecast">Modern Homes Forecast</a> and read the <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/modern-homes-forecast/modern-farmhouse">Modern Farmhouse Design Handbook</a>.
</blockquote>

Making Home header

Learn how Making HOME achieved a Modern Farmhouse style pool house renovation using Hardie™ Oblique™ Cladding and Axon™ Cladding.

Modern Farmhouse renovation brought to life with Hardie™ Architectural Collection

Award Winning Design with Rooms to a View

Picture this: a semi-retired couple looking to relocate from country Victoria to the seaside township of Point Lonsdale, Victoria. The couple had purchased a beautiful block of land in a newly established estate, replete with amazing views over the golf course and out to the horizon.
The brief to their building designer, Dylan Barber, of Dylan Barber Building Design, was detailed, but open to suggestions, new ideas and inspiration. The task was to design a four-bedroom, two storey home that was <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/modern-look">modern</a> on the inside and out - a forever home. “The design had to accommodate the couple not just for now, but well into the future,” says Dylan. “The living spaces had to feel comfortable, relaxing and spacious, as this is where they wanted to spend most of their time.” The design had to also take into consideration strict developer guidelines.
It was also important that the home suited the family’s lifestyle. Leone works as an occupational therapist, so the consideration for movement to around spaces and sensory qualities was important. Rod, on the other hand, was happy as long as there was enough space in the garage to park his golf cart, but a large balcony where he could cook a barbeque and watch the footy or cricket over a couple of beers were equally important. The design had to factor in the location and connection to a pool; an item the couple both desired.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/331Yj7EWUAyLVj0sKivFu/bf6c1ec0a6b09afafb74bce95021e168/axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-3_copy.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-3 copy" />
<h2 id="bringingthedesigntolife">Bringing the design to life</h2>
Recently awarded the James Hardie Award at the Design Matters Victoria Building Design Awards, this award winning home, named Patching Residence, boasts an impressive modern façade with its large cantilevered first floor. The implementation of vertical <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> by James Hardie (painted Dulux Monument) and painted brickwork (painted Dulux White on White) deliver a <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/modern-look">modern look</a>, while the inclusion of natural stone and timber lining help soften the tone and allow for a more relaxed, contemporary feel.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3Joece477L9q3WEVn8pG2W/0c23a5d77e385c8ce93cecae6f71e6d2/axon-modern-exterior-patching-pt-lonsdale-jameshardie-1_copy.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-patching-pt-lonsdale-jameshardie-1 " />
Externally, <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/looks/modern/mixed-cladding">modern mixed materials</a> were selected as the primary claddings, not only for their aesthetics, but more importantly for their durability, low maintenance and lifespan. A brick base provides a solid base structure downstairs, whilst <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> creates a striking, yet lightweight contemporary look for the top floor of the home. 
<blockquote>
 “To me, modern design means classic but with bold lines and use of modern materials,” said Dylan. “I like the relative simplicity of the modern look with the use of mixed materials to build layers of texture and design features. Axon™ Cladding fibre cement stood out as the perfect building material to bring the design to life.” 
</blockquote>
The home includes many special features, providing added excitement and interest. The staircase, with its double height window and natural stone feature wall, is a welcome surprise for visitors entering the home, and the owners are able to view this beautiful feature from all parts of the upper floor living space.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/HqQJ8JVf0GrgUJZS0y9uw/29c0aa2fd0f6de31e0875b1c0d53bc2d/nojhproduct-interior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-12_copy.webp" alt="nojhproduct-interior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-12 copy" />
The living area has been placed on the upper floor, which takes advantage of the spectacular views and adds a sense of light. High ceilings emphasise space and volume and maximise the views over the golf course and pool area.
The large balcony provides the couple with an outdoor space, where they can relax outdoors and enjoy the sunsets. The south-west balcony wall also offers room for an outdoor barbeque and TV. Even better, it affords protection from the prevailing weather. The roof over the balcony helps reduce afternoon summer sunlight. An additional small balcony overlooks the pool and allows the couple to capture the morning sun, while ample natural ventilation is received through the opposing glass sliding doors to the living area.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/39yZcelz9boBmcvZH4oTxj/24e5e9f6c8582a70976c8488630ee2f6/axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-9_copy.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-9 copy" />
During the warmer months the owners can enjoy relaxing and cooling off around the pool. While they also enjoy magnificent views out to the golf course, the view to the pool from all living areas encases the comfort and tranquillity that the space affords all year round. 
The master bedroom and Leone’s study has been located on the same level as the living zone to reduce movement between floors. The bedroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows capture the morning and midday sun and provide a view to the pool below. A large eave minimises summer sun from entering while an external timber batten screen provides a sense of seclusion. 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3JWWRPTcfmozc5dLv0xSRD/14af998d13710b9d5671ddd4af435ef8/nojhproduct-interior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-11_copy.webp" alt="nojhproduct-interior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-11 copy" />
<h2 id="enhancinghumanhealthandconnectionwiththeenvironment">Enhancing human health and connection with the environment</h2>
“The home has been designed to maximise views, natural sunlight and ventilation, providing warmth and comfort to its spaces,” says Dylan. “We’ve positioned the living areas to have a northerly orientation that maximise solar gains, and a large eave located on the north-western elevation helps minimise direct light into the home during the hotter months.” The use of real-time 3D shadow diagrams confirmed the amount of sunlight provided throughout each month of the year.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/6AX5Z2xFq6jwRw5NzdlZEf/91a49bde9dbbbeb85665830cd86620d6/nojhproduct-interior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-20_copy.webp" alt="nojhproduct-interior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-20 copy" />
The efficient relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces has helped maximise lifestyle amenity for the owners. The front balcony plays an important role in social interaction with the community. This space allows the owners to feel connected with the neighbours as they pass by.
The inclusion of natural material such as stone and timber internally enhances the comfort of the occupants, while views to the pool add to the calming and peaceful environment. Bringing the outside in with subtle touches such as organic blue and green toned tiles in the bathrooms continues the relaxed feeling, as does the textural touches of pops of green and blue in the choice of soft furnishings.
The building receives effective cross-flow ventilation through its large doors, located on opposing sides of the upper and lower floor living areas, delivering clean, fresh air into the home.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/5XDePCu9GKfoMrYhOjkaBa/51166ba4bf1823eb7fbe2154de4eba88/axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-4_copy.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-4 copy" />
The home also includes 10.24k/w (32 x 320w) photovoltaic solar panels and a heat pump for the pool. A 2000 litre water tank is used for collecting and storing rainwater, as well as being connected to the toilets for flushing.
<h2 id="buildingforafuture">Building for a future</h2>
The lift was an important element of the design, ensuring the longevity of this home for its owners. While it may not be the current primary access to the first floor, this inclusion gives the owners peace of mind knowing they will have complete access throughout the home into the later years of their lives.
Both occupants continue to work part-time, and as such, the home is equipped with a dedicated study on the upper floor overlooking the pool, while a desk to the downstairs living room has been integrated in the joinery.
The home is heated by a hydronic slab and radiator panel heating, while a gas log heater to the upper floor living space provides a cosy fire place, and instant heating during the cooler months. The thermal comfort of the home is enhanced with the inclusion of exposed concrete flooring along with stone walls - both providing internal thermal mass to help store collected solar energy.
Dylan concludes, “The home has been designed to not only meet the needs of the current owners but to naturally accommodate new occupants in the future. However, for now, the owners will be enjoying their beautiful new home for years to come.”
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/5XBM4qTBwT3xhGX0OlT5NW/14634ae88bfb5d1aef803abad652f13f/axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-2_copy.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-patchingresidence-pointlonsdale-jameshardie-2 copy" />
Designer: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dylan_barber_building_design/">Dylan Barber Building Design</a>
Builder: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jconconstruction/">JCON Construction</a>
Photographer: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nikoleramsay/">Nikole Ramsay</a>
TM or R denote an unregistered trademark or registered trademark of James Hardie Technology Limited. Design Matters, Dulux, White on White and Monument are trade marks of their respective owners.

Patching Residence is an award winning home designed by Dylan Barber Building Design. The modern home features Axon Cladding on the cantilevered first storey.

axon-modern-exterior-patching-pt-lonsdale-jameshardie-1

Double storey homes can be built on smaller blocks allowing home buyers to spend more money on their home and less on the land. Lot sizes can be as tiny as 250 sqms. For larger lots, double storey homes allow for yard space to be retained for children, pets and pools.

Two storey homes are popular with families with school age children who need more space. Typically living areas are on the lower level so they connect to outdoor areas and bedrooms are upstairs. Some families insist on living areas on each level. One for children and the other as a sanctuary for parents.

If building a high set home obtains a view, then the living area should be built with a large deck on the upper level and the lower level, which will be darker can be used for bedrooms. Care should be taken to choose a quality floor substrate with underlay and carpet so those sleeping aren’t woken by others walking around upstairs.

If you’re going to have stairs make them a grand design feature. They can be an excuse to create a void which lets light deep into the home.

Double storey homes can look grand and architectural in the following styles:

- Box Modern. A flat roof design, where the shape of the home is a combination of 3 or 4 offset boxes, often in different textures or shades of colour. Some project, others recede and those on the upper level are cantilevered out to provide protective cover underneath.
- Minimalist. Consider two boxes with a pared back aesthetic. Focus on balance and proportion to achieve a zen-like calm.
- Mixed Materials. When your home is a similar layout to your neighbour’s mix and personalise the cladding choices to create streetscape diversity.
- Hamptons. Two storey Hamptons home designs are grand. They provide a large canvas for beautiful eave details, posts and balustrades.

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Case Studies & News

Matrix™ is an exterior cladding system with a clean, modern, expressed-joint look. Matrix offers a bold industrial aesthetic when an architectural panelised look is desired. Choose from various panel sizes that suit different stud spacings, and let the 10mm express joint create a variety of geometric shapes in square, vertical, horizontal and brick pattern layouts. 

Use Matrix for interior feature walls and paint the express joint a dark colour to accentuate the lines and shapes. The cavity construction design improves thermal properties and achieves higher R-values. To create a bespoke designer mixed materials look combine Matrix with other Hardie™ exterior cladding products, such as Stria™ Cladding, for contrast and to accentuate design elements.

Expressed-joint panels offer a bold industrial aesthetic.

Matrix

Matrix™ Cladding - Quick and Easy to install Exterior Cladding system. Know how Matrix™ Cladding system by James Hardie offers a bold aesthetic look to your walls.

Matrix™ Cladding & Cladding Panels | James Hardie

Introduce drama and detail to your walls with the clean vertical lines of Axon™ Cladding. Axon™ Cladding is a range of vertically grooved panels which incorporate the beauty and fine detail of painted vertical joint timber without time-consuming board construction or durability hassles.

Axon™ Cladding provides the efficiency of a large panel and comes in a range of heights to suit common wall sizes which helps to reduce waste. Featuring a stepped shiplap joint on the long edges for easy installation, it can be gun nailed and cut cleanly with a circular saw using a dust-reducing fibre cement blade.

Axon™ Cladding is available in two groove spacing options to give the appearance of narrow and wide board sizes. Axon™ Cladding 133mm Smooth and Axon™ Cladding 400mm Smooth are smooth textured panels with vertical grooves spaced 133mm and 400mm apart respectively. Axon™ Cladding 133mm Grained has a textured finish to evoke that of timber. 

Bring drama and detail to your walls with vertical lines.

Axon™

Axon™ Cladding - Create a strong visual impact on your walls with vertical Joint Cladding Panels by James Hardie. Prefect product for ground floor extensions.

Enhance Your Home with James Hardie's  Axon™ Cladding

Delightful double storey homes make the most of small lots and their second levels can give them architectural appeal.

product-project 4 banner doubleStorey

Double storey homes can be built on smaller blocks allowing home buyers to spend more money on their home and less on the land. Lot sizes can be as tiny as 250 sqms. For larger lots, double storey homes allow for yard space to be retained for children, pets and pools.

Two storey homes are popular with families with school age children who need more space. Typically living areas are on the lower level so they connect to outdoor areas and bedrooms are upstairs. Some families insist on living areas on each level. One for children and the other as a sanctuary for parents.

If building a high set home obtains a view, then the living area should be built with a large deck on the upper level and the lower level, which will be darker can be used for bedrooms. Care should be taken to choose a quality floor substrate with underlay and carpet so those sleeping aren’t woken by others walking around upstairs.

If you’re going to have stairs make them a grand design feature. They can be an excuse to create a void which lets light deep into the home.

Double storey homes can look grand and architectural in the following styles:
<ul>
	<li>Box Modern. A flat roof design, where the shape of the home is a combination of 3 or 4 offset boxes, often in different textures or shades of colour. Some project, others recede and those on the upper level are cantilevered out to provide protective cover underneath.</li>
	<li>Minimalist. Consider two boxes with a pared back aesthetic. Focus on balance and proportion to achieve a zen-like calm.</li>
	<li>Mixed Materials. When your home is a similar layout to your neighbour’s mix and personalise the cladding choices to create streetscape diversity.</li>
	<li>Hamptons. Two storey Hamptons home designs are grand. They provide a large canvas for beautiful eave details, posts and balustrades.</li>
</ul>

Double Storey Street Appeal

Hardie™ Double Storey House comes in various styles like Box Modern, Minimalist, Mixed Materials, Hamptons. explore through our delightful Two Storey House Designs.

Double Storey Homes - Two Storey House Plans | James Hardie

Summer Farmhouse

Know how the Dylan Barber Building Design which delivered a Patching Residence wins the Design Matters Award for Best Use of James Hardie cladding products.

Award Winning Design with Rooms - Patching Residence 

Modern minimalist pavilion meets heritage coach house

<h3 id="bijlarchitecturesmodernextensionwrappedinaxoncladdingcreatesaminimalistbackdroptoan1872sandstonecoachhouseinvictoriasgoldminingtownofbendigo">Bijl Architecture’s modern extension wrapped in Axon™ Cladding creates a minimalist backdrop to an 1872 sandstone coach house in Victoria’s gold-mining town of Bendigo.</h3>
A sympathetic union between new and old forms is the result of a commission from a busy music educator and conductor to his architect and friend, Melonie Bayl-Smith, director of Sydney-based Bijl Architecture. The practice was tasked with the adaptive restoration of a one-bedroom heritage coach house and addition of a new single-story pavilion, creating a three-bedroom home fit for modern life with space to host musical performances. 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/2KUBbJaYnfhCrhFPH0X7s6/87a1d93e8b0208678cb48f07c7797a84/axon-modern-exterior-bendigo-bannerman-house-bijl-architecture-adamgibsonphotography-jameshardie-16__1_.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-bendigo-bannerman-house-bijl-architecture-adamgibsonphotography-jameshardie-16 (1)" />
The new extension and multi-purpose garage are located to the side and rear of the coach house, forming an L-shaped plan that maximises a limited footprint. The historic sandstone was mostly intact, so the coach house restoration involved revitalising the original features and openings of the house, and addressing a 1970s conversion. Larger openings, including a graceful arched carriage door, were extended to create through-views to the new open-plan kitchen and living space and to feed light into the once-dark interiors of the coach house.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/5matBmzWj82fhMiag1N4Hd/9c6f1c12a3777ffbd412187d0e1df6f2/axon-modern-interior-bendigo-bannerman-house-bijl-architecture-adamgibsonphotography-jameshardie-82__1_.webp" alt="axon-modern-interior-bendigo-bannerman-house-bijl-architecture-adamgibsonphotography-jameshardie-82 (1)" />
<h2 id="connectingheritageandcontemporarystructures">Connecting heritage and contemporary structures</h2>
The monochromatic composition of the new black box and sandstone box – and a largely white interior – establishes a strong conceptual theme to the design and a neutral backdrop to life in the expanded house.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/52jNfZlr8v9OZ8qh6SsOjV/fc5a1000554f56e52ded7e0e0ebe8b96/02_Marketing_-_bannerman_house.webp" alt="bannerman-house-technical-drawing-jameshardie" />
“The work of artist Donald Judd, his minimal and quiet forms, was my reference when bringing a new element to an already characterful heritage building,” says Melonie. “The monolithic nature of the new form isn’t trying to compete texturally or formally with the period features of the coach house, such as the archways and natural patterning in the sandstone; it sits quietly alongside.”
Axon wraps the exterior of the pavilion in almost-black shade Dulux ‘Monument’ and travels through into the interior entranceway and a discreet wall of doors and storage cupboards. “The fibre cement cladding forms a backdrop inside and out with a recessive and silent presence that allows the sandstone to express its personality unencumbered,” explains Melonie. “It supports the idea of the contemporary and heritage volumes sitting harmoniously next to each other, wrapping and unfolding.” 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/uqq9DaCiDIKFx8aAE0K6E/c947e6a857c74b446f035c228bfa2af2/bannerman_house.webp" alt="axon-cladding-modern-exterior-bannerman-house-bijl-architecture-jameshardie" />
The diesel-black shade can also be seen in the kitchen splashback, a burnished steel fireplace, solid Axon-clad doors and a custom-built, black-steel sculptural staircase that has room for a baby grand piano underneath.
“We enjoyed working with Axon Cladding inside the house because it has a lovely soft finish,” says Andrew Lee, project architect at Bijl Architecture. “We used steel on a few of the interior features, but we didn’t want to use it on a bigger scale as it’s not as soft and residential as the Axon product.”
<h2 id="detailingmixedcladdingmaterials">Detailing mixed cladding materials</h2>
Externally, the construction has simple lines to create a crisp outline for the new building. The groove in the Axon Cladding provides a residential scale and references the tongue-and-groove claddings seen on older buildings. The garage is lined in timber battens for ventilation and appears light and semi-transparent at some angles. Trim on the external corners and junctions has been visually minimised throughout. 
“We didn’t want a ‘picture frame’ entry so we created a very small bulkhead above the front door then recessed the door frames for a very refined entry,” explains Andrew. “Once you pass through the front door, the ceiling pops up and opens to a skylight, so visitors can appreciate the full height of the coach house and its textured sandstone wall.”
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/2SEO94X35t3krx5wiBd0KZ/9da031d2c2e3216d472a78e18ffe0e5c/axon-modern-interior-bendigo-bannerman-house-bijl-architecture-adamgibsonphotography-jameshardie-90.webp" alt="axon-modern-interior-bendigo-bannerman-house-bijl-architecture-adamgibsonphotography-jameshardie-90" />
“We originally looked at creating a metal-clad box for the pavilion, but the finish of the Axon Cladding sits better against the sandstone and provides a break between the steel elements in the house,” Andrew says. “It was also a cheaper alternative with better availability and speed to get it onto site. And meeting the fire rating requirements, it ticked all the boxes for us.”
Architect: Bijl Architecture
Builder: BLR Provincial Construction
Photographer: Adam Gibson
Specification Tools for Architects and Designers
<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/order-a-sample">Order a Sample</a>
<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/bim-downloads">BIM Downloads</a>

Bannerman House by Bijl Architecture uses Axon Cladding by James Hardie on the extension. The original home is an 1872 sandstone coach house in Victoria's gold-mining town of Bendigo.

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Here's how Axon™ Cladding created a sympathetic union between new and old forms in the adaptive restoration and expansion of a heritage coach house.

Modern Home Minimalist Pavilion Meets Heritage Coach House

Kitchen of Bannerman House by Bijl Architecture.

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Close up of kitchen in Bannerman House by Bijl Architecture.

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Loungeroom of Bannerman House by Bijl Architecture featuring Axon Cladding by James Hardie on the interior walls of the Bendigo, Victoria home.

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Close up shot of bathroom in Bannerman House by Bijl Architecture.

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A beautifully articulated finish within a restrained budget

In striking juxtaposition to a large and sculptural oak tree, Ellul Architecture’s simple black pavilion is home to a young family within the suburban landscape of Bayside, Melbourne.
With its restrained detailing and careful material selection, architect Ben Ellul has designed for maximum internal volume, creating space for a young family to grow. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> is an aesthetic driver, its grooved panels providing strength and scale, and a cost-effective cladding solution.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/41p4LG0RILPcwpiPRJ6XGN/77b1272fdb0584d09a32afc95521c1cb/axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-6__1_.webp" alt="axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-6 " />
<h2 id="acompactplanwithbigambitions">A compact plan with big ambitions</h2>
A series of courtyards are carved out of a simple pavilion form, resulting in a 230sqm sanctuary that has earned the home a place on the Houses Awards 2022 shortlist. A central courtyard is bookended by a multi-purpose family room and a living space. “When the weather's good, the owners can open up the courtyard doors to create a third space that connects the house,” says Ben. "It keeps the plan compact so we could spend money on full-height glazing and increased ceiling height, adding long-term value to the home.”
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/5yvRp3MGYvl6CNnW5Rp18e/b31f34635e22343729d066c5c455894c/axon-interior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-5__1_.webp" alt="axon-interior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-5 " />
A central, double-height hallway links these spaces while also allowing light to penetrate deep into the floorplate through a series of highlight windows. This higher, central volume is lined in <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/categories/cladding/easylap-panel">EasyLap™ Panel</a> by James Hardie, a different finish to contrast with the primary <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a>. Both are painted Dulux Black in a matt finish. Below this raised ceiling are doorways into bedrooms, bathrooms and a study, all concealed in a green feature wall of timber panelling. 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3gEZId68DKEn2AW8WCv7iv/4c49a398d5408a3ba00d7d9812c96f31/axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-2__1_.webp" alt="axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-2" />
<h2 id="thelookoftimberwithoutthehighmaintenance">The look of timber without the high maintenance</h2>
The low profile of the home sits comfortably behind a prominent oak tree, ensuring it has a modest relationship to the street. To achieve the look, Ben researched the various black cladding options. 
“The fibre cement <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> is light on labour to install, it’s virtually bulletproof, easy to maintain, handles hits from kids playing, and is long lasting,” says Ben. “<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/fibre-cement">Fibre cement</a> also works really well in our climate and, when used well, is really beautiful. A panel product has enabled significant budget savings for the build and also ongoing maintenance, compared with a product like cedar.” 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3PrFKa1kBFz2YtF4WSZejK/4ee68f2d4b6c65e44652c5aa581d2e7e/axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-9.webp" alt="axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-9" />
Clean vertical lines meet seamlessly at the edges to amplify the beauty of the home’s simple architectural form. “We needed to get the edge details right – the windows, corners and parapets, while meeting the budget goals and ensuring the construction sequencing was spot on,” Ben adds. “The plan was adjusted to suit panel sizes, so the builder could install the bulk of the panels and then come back and deal with the critical corner and window details later on. They installed the cladding over a few days.” 
<h2 id="claddingprototypeshelpspeedupdelivery">Cladding prototypes help speed up delivery</h2>
The builder made prototypes of the cladding, including the corner junction detail, and built a jig to lift the 3.6m panels up in one piece. Jayson Davidson, director at Jada Homes, explains: “The jig wound the panels up to the exact height to hold each one in place, while we screwed them to the metal battens, then used <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/hardiebreak">Hardie™ Break</a> to create a thermal break.”
Aluminium details on the corners provide a sharp, neat finish. “It took a bit longer to get right, but gave us an amazing finished result,” explains Jayson. “We used a 10mm aluminium Y-shaped section and mitred the <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> edges – the cladding meeting at the Y section, which was then painted black.” Ben set the parapet heights to accommodate full sheets of cladding, ensuring the form maintains its purity and simplicity, with a black flashing to complete the top edge.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/60CKwh5aDaypmVuSO8v0qy/fcd1fefd1a702a5c5c3484d3e93d5983/axon-easylap-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-4__1_.webp" alt="axon-easylap-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-4" />
Using <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> architecturally, Ellul Architecture has created an enigmatic design, which opens up to reveal an active and generous courtyard home within which this family can enjoy and grow.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/2JFD6IngTH5EZuXO6kxXAi/a2e6d89c448dfdb37ee4b91c8d8da99c/axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-3__1_.webp" alt="axon-exterior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-3" />
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/1DwA1oZ2tQdtnRQXkXsGow/9d924b708c80fc5ce5076df901e38d69/nojhproduct-interior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-1__1_.webp" alt="nojhproduct-interior-modern-victoria-sandringhamhouse-ellularchitecture-jameshardie-1 " />
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/5vpY81dnOeUDV0zgR64RjJ/9b84511c835407e049eae1e6402bfc3e/Sandringham_House_Elevation.webp" alt="Sandringham House Elevation" />
Products
<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> and <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/categories/cladding/easylap-panel">EasyLap™ Panel</a>
Credits
Ellul Architecture <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ellularchitecture/?hl=en">@ellularchitecture</a>
Jada Homes <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jadahomes/?hl=en">@jadahomes</a>
Photographers
Hamish McIntosh <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hamishmcintosh/?hl=en">@hamishmcintosh</a>
Rory Gardiner <a href="https://www.instagram.com/arorygardiner/?hl=en">@arorygardiner</a>
Specification Tools for Architects and Designers
<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/order-a-sample">Order a Sample</a>
<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/bim-downloads">BIM Downloads</a>

Sandringham House designed by Ellul Architecture with Axon Cladding by James Hardie to deliver a box modern home.

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Ellul Architecture has used Axon™ Cladding to create a pavilion home for a young family within the suburban landscape of Bayside, Melbourne.

Sandringham House

Axon™ Cladding delivers a beautifully articulated finish within a restrained budget.

Five Gardens House:  A Triumphant Homage to the Australian Landscape

For the owners of Five Gardens House, it was imperative the appreciation they have for their surrounding landscape in Sydney’s Middle Harbour, be thoughtfully weaved into the renovation and extension of their original mid-century home.
Built in 1956, the red brick and tile, 2-storey home sits on a sloping block, it had very little street appeal and no connection to its picturesque surrounds beyond the front door.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/BW499ZHoKnfVivu0JNs8P/d64bd71f8ac420682fc45e62a46e90fa/easylap-modern-exterior-fivegardenshouse-davidboyle-jameshardie-1.webp" alt="easylap-modern-exterior-fivegardenshouse-davidboyle-jameshardie-1" /> 
Award-winning architect David Boyle transformed the suburban modernist house into a celebratory expression of mid-century modern design and the connection to both the bushland setting and its spectacular harbour views. 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3bIgiVj5GYObiRc56o414v/9b33fdefe00f5b61b3258bc997202983/axon-modern-exterior-fivegardens-davidboyle-jameshardie-3.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-fivegardens-davidboyle-jameshardie-3" />
“The back of the house looked out onto a striking bush outcrop and an amazing old Eucalypt. The owners wanted to hero this view from various points within the home, so the most logical response was a roof with windows and a framed solution,” explains David. 
EasyLap™ Panel by James Hardie was used for the batten style cladding on the roof primarily for its functionality and performance over time. 
“The landscape was extremely steep, and we wanted to connect each part of the house to an outside feature. A lightweight solution like the HardieTM exterior cladding products was the most appropriate given the landscape. They were also complementary to the existing structure, providing pattern and texture reminiscent of mid-century design,” David added.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/CSiaHLv0WLmYyJHrCrRtp/147f987ea876296cecabb247280145fb/axon-modern-exterior-fivegardens-davidboyle-jameshardie-12.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-fivegardens-davidboyle-jameshardie-12" />
Vertical battens around the roof, garage façade and garage door, made the utilitarian space disappear into the design, which resulted in a visibly neater streetscape. While David’s use of randomly spaced battens is a nod to the random beauty of the landscape. 
“Often, modern architecture is equal and measured, in a complete juxtaposition our landscape is varied, unequal and somewhat opportunistic. By varying the spacing of the battens, we were able to mimic the environment and provide a character that’s missing in modern design,” said David.
Axon™ Cladding by James Hardie was used to create a grooved balustrade that not only provides privacy but a point of interest and differentiation from the rest of the house. Already familiar with Axon™ from past projects, David chose the product because it is economical, performs well over time and is easy to install. However, it’s the product’s versatility that makes it stand out.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/7uxbl3ee0k88gkw0afKnGv/4d63442ca970c77b1e27508453e150d9/axon-modern-exterior-fivegardens-davidboyle-jameshardie-2.webp" alt="axon-modern-exterior-fivegardens-davidboyle-jameshardie-2" />
“The balustrades breakdown the mass of a solid blank wall to make it more of a human scale and create balance,” David comments. 
Of course, there are always changes and compromises that need to be made during a build, but David says each change should be used as an opportunity to make things better, there should be no evidence that any compromise has been made.
“On this project, we had to alter the shape of the roof over the back balcony, due to strict council guidelines on overshadowing neighbouring properties. By turning the angle of the roof 15 degrees, we not only solved the issue, we were actually able to lead the eye to a longer view of the harbour,” said David.
The result was a triumphant homage to the Australian landscape in keeping with mid-century modern style. 
“The Hardie™ exterior cladding products can modernise the look and style of a house but they’re also in keeping with the way people used materials in the ‘50s and ‘60s – architects of that time weren’t averse to patterns and colour and that was a great thing,” David finished. 
Architect: <a href="https://www.davidboylearchitect.com.au/">David Boyle Architect</a>
Builder: <a href="https://www.graybuilt.com.au/">Graybuilt Pty Ltd</a>
Photographer: <a href="http://www.brettboardman.com/">Brett Boardman Photography </a>
Awards: 2019, Hugh and Eva Buhrich Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions), NSW Architecture Awards, Australian Institute of Architects.
2019, National Commendation for Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions), National Architecture Awards, Australian Institute of Architects.
2019, Winner - House Additions/Alterations/Renovations, Master Builders Association.
For more information on Hardie™ exterior cladding products visit our <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/categories/cladding">Cladding Solutions</a> page.

Five Gardens House is a transformation of a mid-century modern home in Sydney's Middle Harbour. The home features Axon™ Cladding and connects the home to the bushland setting and its harbour views.

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Five Gardens House is a renovation designed by award-winning Architect David Boyle that sees a mid-century modern home transformed. 

Five Gardens House

Architect David Boyle renovates the Suburban Modern Home into a Celebratory Expression of Mid-Century Modern Design with Bushland Setting & Its Harbour Views.

Explore the Stunning Renovation of Five Gardens House

Outside In: Exteriors and the Importance of First Appearances

If the home is our castle, then surely its exterior design is the crown. Not only is the exterior of the home responsible for first impressions but it provides all-important street appeal and sets the tone for the design and functionality of the rest of the house.
Neil Hipwell, Australia’s leading design builder and Founder of FutureFlip says there is a lot to consider when thinking about the design aesthetic of your home’s façade. “The façade of your home is a representation of you in your neighbourhood and the first impression for your visitors,” he explains. 
However, Neil says the exterior of your home is much more than just a pretty face – there are practical elements that the exterior needs to provide. “The exterior is also there to protect your home and your family from the elements, and to provide thermal insulation.” 
Given that the exterior of the home has such an important role to play in any renovation plan, it’s vital that your builder understands your overall design vision. 
The easiest way to convey your vision is by creating a mood board. Maria Cerne, Founder of Canberra-based design and styling practice Studio Black Interiors, says a mood board will help you collate your ideas into one cohesive look that can be shared with your builder. You can create your mood board online via a platform like <a href="https://stylesourcebook.com.au/">Style Sourcebook</a> or you can use inspiration from magazines and catalogues.
Maria’s top tips for creating a façade mood board are:
<h3 id="thinkaboutyourexteriorstyle">Think about your exterior style</h3>
How do you want your house to feel – do you picture it making a strong visual statement or blending into the neighbourhood? Should it be modern coastal, box modern, Hamptons-inspired or even ScandiBarn?
<h3 id="consideryourhomeslocation">Consider your homes location</h3>
Are you in the city, the suburbs, a rural or coastal setting? These different environments can inspire your colour and finish choices.
<h3 id="pickyourtrio">Pick your trio</h3>
This is a good rule of thumb to keep in mind of terms of finishes. The idea is to have a trio of main finishes or colours. This may be mix of feature wall cladding styles like James Hardie Linea™ Weatherboard, Axon and Hardie™ Fine Texture Cladding. Base colours should be used on the largest areas of your exteriors such as the walls, roof and the garage door, while accent colours are used on smaller areas such as windows, trims and your front door. 
<h3 id="editandrefine">Edit and refine</h3>
Maria says, “Look at what is working and what isn’t, and make changes to the mood board until it feels cohesive Try not to use too many colours and finishes on your exterior – less is generally more.”
Now that your vision is clear and your builder knows exactly what look you’re trying to achieve, it’s time to consider the finer details of your façade.
Neil Hipwell, has designed and built more than 100 homes over his 13-year career and has the following advice to ensure your exterior design mirrors the time, energy and effort you’ve placed into your interior renovation:
<h3 id="itsallinthesymmetry">It’s all in the symmetry</h3>
“When it comes to designing a great façade, it’s important to get the symmetry right. Either use a completely symmetrical design or play with the proportions just make sure to keep the overall look balanced,” says Neil.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3yXH982TDPwxsiRkfT7by6/2a8bc71335e315e2bf98402064bddf6f/axon-cladding-boxmodern-exterior-bennettstreet-futureflip-render-jameshardie-2.webp" alt="axon-cladding-boxmodern-exterior-bennettstreet-futureflip-render-jameshardie" />
<a href="https://https://www.youtube.com/embed/IbTPbgcJMrE" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="80%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://https://www.youtube.com/embed/IbTPbgcJMrE</a>
<h3 id="keepittimeless">Keep it timeless</h3>
“Less design is good design, we recommend avoiding things like patterns, bold colours and harsh shapes. Instead, create a modern façade by choosing to create a sense of texture through your material choices,” he explains.
<h3 id="materialchoices">Material choices</h3>
“When choosing your exterior materials go for something with long-term benefits. We like the range of cladding by James Hardie as not only is it bush-fire and termite-safe, the fibre-cement formulation is created to withstand Australian conditions and won’t warp, twist or rot.”
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8zPD01TKYKg" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="80%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://www.youtube.com/embed/8zPD01TKYKg</a>
<h3 id="verticalorhorizontal">Vertical or horizontal?</h3>
“If you are going for cladding, think about whether you after a vertical or horizontal design. James Hardie has a wide range of products that can give the look of timber or render, so the design possibilities are endless,” says Neil.
“Cladding is a great choice as it’s quick and easy to install, and it lends itself to different types of design features that can be more difficult to achieve when working with brick.”
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/doUmZqMH-4Q" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="80%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://www.youtube.com/embed/doUmZqMH-4Q</a>
<h3 id="thefinishingtouches">The finishing touches</h3>
“Think about the finishing touches to your exterior design like windows, window trims, door hardware, lighting, outdoor flooring like tiles and even your letterbox and house numbers. Also, well considered landscaping will make a huge difference to your façade,” he said.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nmvUfktsxqU" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="80%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://www.youtube.com/embed/nmvUfktsxqU</a>
Head to <a href="https://www.pinterest.com.au/jameshardieau/_created/">James Hardie AU Pinterest page</a> for design inspiration that can help you start your design journey and find images to add to your mood board.

Futureflip facade render using Hardie Linea Weatherboard to achieve a modern coastal home.

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Discover why the first impressions of a home's exterior is crucial, and how to create a beautiful, long-lasting look with Futureflip and James Hardie's products.

Know About Facade Considerations with Futureflip

A Self-Designed Scandi Barn Masterpiece

A love of architecture and design inspired Naomi and husband Nick to build their dream home for their three teenage children, and extended family menagerie that includes dog Daisy, four chooks, and one hermit crab.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/5tqIuu2ub15nP9oXEAsVu7/6615795e1eba8f6ce478864a6c5eeecc/Naomi_de_winnie.jpg" alt="scandi-barn-modern-home-new-build" />
“We decided to build as we have always wanted to design our own home from scratch, we love architecture, interior design, and landscape design,” said Naomi. “We wanted to achieve a light-filled, low-maintenance home through a design that will suit us when the kids get older and move out, but still spacious enough to have them and their friends around.”
Naomi and Nick were inspired by their love of Scandinavian Barn design with a hint of Japanese design including light, white spaces, and lots of glass with strong architectural lines, that lend themselves perfectly to lightweight construction. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/modern-homes-forecast/barn">Barn style</a> is characterised by the minimalist philosophy that encourages simplicity and creating a strong relationship between the design elements and nature. Barn style homes are loved for their vaulted ceilings, open plan living spaces and bold street presence.
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/3jy6lDjKpoHzOYzFYMpOMH/cc3a86ede31201b75bb3f6873a34299d/Naomi_de_winnie_2.jpg" alt="scandi-barn-modern-home" />
<h2 id="discoveringhardieexteriorcladding">Discovering Hardie™ Exterior Cladding</h2>
Naomi had no previous knowledge of exterior cladding types, but with this impending project, she learnt about <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/categories/cladding">Hardie™ products</a> through seeing them used on projects featured on Instagram and Facebook, and handling the products at Bunnings. “When designing our home, we used a mood board with images of Hardie™ products along with colour samples and inspirational images from Pinterest,” said Naomi.
With the timber look playing a major role in this style of design, Naomi’s project features <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> on the majority of the exterior of the house, as well as one internal feature wall in their lounge room. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/hardiedeck-system">Hardie™ Deck</a> has been used for all of the home’s external decking areas and stairs. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> and <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/hardiedeck-system">HardieDeck™</a> were decided on as they helped Naomi and Nick achieve the modern uniform clean look they were after. Both products provide high durability and are low maintenance, which was one of the main objectives with the build. 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/46U1trIhk8wUE3pql8tgMq/6c79121c2833b16b8a6a073efef04ee8/Naomi-Jan_winner.jpg" alt="scandi-barn-modern-look-house" />
<h2 id="designbuildenjoy">Design, Build, Enjoy</h2>
Naomi and Nick worked on the house design, interior design, and landscaping design as they had a clear vision of what they wanted for the end result, and a draftsperson formalised their final design before submission. Naomi pursued the Barn look but also wanted to include muted colours that throw shadows from the landscape and sun at different times of the day. 
“We love modern but also want it homely and a place of relaxation and peace,” said Naomi. “I felt like it was crucial to have cohesive interior and exterior design, the two of these designs needed to marry to get an end result that is not only practical but aesthetically pleasing.”
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/1qce1xsaUsZcc1d8RbxMcr/4d0c8e8af38ac96931908673d6aca9b7/Naomi_de_winnie_5.PNG" alt="scandi-barn-modern-home" />
Local builders, DKM Builders, worked on the project along with Evergreen Garden &amp; Landscape Solutions, to bring their design to life. “Duncan and his team from DKM Builders were brilliant to work with, the boys took the time to understand our design and project and were very particular with a perfect finish and making sure the finer details were spot on.”
The build took around nine months, mostly involving local trades which gave everyone a sense of pride in what they have created within the community. “The communication between the trades and ourselves was really great and that’s what makes a build enjoyable and a lot less stressful.”
“We love the clean lines of the <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/categories/cladding">Hardie™ products</a>. Their durability and the fact that they can handle dark colours means the house will look great for years to come,” said Naomi, who absolutely loves the final result and how the home looks. “It’s practical yet beautiful and homely, an amazing space to spend family time together and the next stages of our lives.” 
For those wanting to build or renovate, Naomi suggests doing plenty of research and discovering what amazing products are available. With so many options, choosing the materials which will be sure to get the style and look you are after is a challenging but rewarding task.
<blockquote>
 Loving the Barn style trend? Download the <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/modern-homes-forecast/barn">Barn Design Handbook</a> to learn more on how to bring this style to life.
</blockquote>

modern-scandi-barn-home

Learn why Naomi and Nick chose Axon™ Cladding and Hardie™ Deck to help them achieve the modern, uniform and clean Barn look that they desired.

Self-Designed Scandi Barn Masterpiece Using Axon™ Cladding

Clean lines and simplicity - create the modern look in Melbourne

A builder by trade, Michael Nikolovski had just purchased land in a new suburb in Melbourne and wanted to create the perfect house for his family which includes three young boys. 
“We wanted something new and contemporary,” said Michael. “We loved the clean lines and simplicity that cladding creates. We needed a home with space to be together as a family, but also space to grow as a family.” 
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/5h57TTlLrqHXTm4npxYwbm/5f3f5215813d034074f4e33b0878b7d0/HERO.PNG" alt="hero-image-1" />
<h2 id="durabilityadecidingfactor">Durability a deciding factor</h2>
As a builder, Michael is very aware of James Hardie products, and chose a mix of Hardie™ exterior cladding products due to their durability, low-maintenance, and warranty. He’s confident the parts of the house using James Hardie products will stand up to any punishment that the harsh Australian climate as well as his young three boys can dish out. “We’ve used so many James Hardie products throughout the home that it’s basically a Hardie House,” continued Michael. “I wanted to use a product that could be easily maintained, allowing me to enjoy family time on the weekend instead of continually patching up parts of the house down the track.”
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/2PYVZugf2Egn0y3uBT8MuT/7f998ec566ab86fa35880e9b217c7ca6/HERO_2.PNG" alt="hero-image-2" />
<h2 id="minimisingagaragefaade">Minimising a Garage Façade</h2>
Michael’s desire for a three-car garage was a challenge due to the unique shaped block with a small 12m frontage. It was a tight space to be working with and he didn’t want a three-car garage with traditional garage doors dominating the façade and distracting from the home’s look. 
“The garage is a dominant feature of the front of the house, so instead of traditional garage doors, we used <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a>. The cladding hides the garage really well and makes the garage appear as just a regular external wall of the house. It blends seamlessly with the rest of the façade and external walls.”
<h2 id="inspiring3drenders">Inspiring 3D Renders</h2>
In choosing his exteriors, Michael used three dimensional renders to identify the cladding types and colour palettes. “The 3D renders were great for inspiration and give you an idea of how the finished product will look, but can only give you so much, you really need to see and feel it once the job is done to get a real understanding of the final look. Once the cladding was installed and the landscaping was complete, I was very happy with the final results, it looks fantastic. We’ve had neighbours commenting on how good it looks.”
<img src="//images.ctfassets.net/rg5y8r6t6cjr/6qjoDEoHBoqJN1k1QblNTu/b20a2859544c33dae83b19193d7fc92a/interior.PNG" alt="Interior-shot-axon" />
<h2 id="endlessdesignpossibilities">Endless Design Possibilities</h2>
As well as the garage doors, Hardie™ cladding has been used in the home’s al fresco entrance, through the entry door and is also used on an inside wall in the garage. “I wanted a continuous and seamless look. For a long-term investment, Hardie™ cladding presents no issues and importantly, from a building perspective, it’s easy to use. The whole build for my double-storey family home, took nine months,” said Michael. 
By utilising a range of claddings and strategically using only three exterior colours, Michael has delivered a modern home, rich in texture. 
<h2 id="ahardiehouse">A Hardie™ House</h2>
<a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-axon-cladding">Axon™ Cladding</a> has been used for the garage doors, the middle bedroom on the first floor above the ground-floor entry, all painted in Monument. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-matrix-cladding">Matrix™ Cladding</a> has been used on the ground entry porch area, including ceiling lining and painted in Surfmist. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/hardieflex-eaves-lining">Hardie™ Flex Eaves Lining </a>was painted in Builders White. <a href="https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/scyon-stria-cladding">Stria™ Cladding</a> has been used on the exterior of first-floor bedrooms on the left and right-hand side of the house and were painted in Surfmist.

hero-image-axon-cladding 

Read article on how clean lines and simplicity create the modern look in Melbourne. Know how Axon™ cladding & flex eaves lining was used to achieve this look.

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