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May 21, 2018
DOWNSIZING MIGHT BE THE SOLUTION TO PROLONGING LIFESTYLE EXPECTANCY
Downsizing can often be met with a general sadness as one leaves behind their beloved family house to live in a more manageable smaller sized home. Though, the move is not without its positives as the influences that downsizing can have on retirees’ lifestyles has persuaded many - with our lifetime expectancy increasing, the prolonging of our lifestyles is becoming an all-time high priority. Downsizing is a solution which means that for many a change in lifestyle isn’t a decrease in life quality. Here are some key lifestyle benefits of downsizing. Location Downsizing can give you the opportunity to live in a suburb which is closer to amenities which you can spend your time in. Think of museums, parks, cafes, shops – all with easy access for you and your family. In fact, the top end residential properties in Brisbane gained 3.6% in March quarter for the year earlier to place the 19th position in the Knight Frank Prime Global Cities Index as a result of downsizer’s demand in Brisbane’s well-located and easy-to-maintain homes in sought-after locations. Increase outings Downsizing can give you the momentum to venture outside of your home more often to explore your local area, attend more events and travel. This is an opportunity to shift your priorities from caring for your home to caring for your lifestyle. Financial benefits From July 1st 2018, the Australian Government are introducing the Downsizing Contribution into Superannuation measure. To those eligible, this measure applies to the sale of you home where the exchange of contracts for the sale occurs on or after 1 July 2018. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may make a downsizer contribution into your superannuation of up to $300,000 from the proceeds of selling your home. If you sell your home, there is no requirement that you purchase another home. Though if you do decide to another bonus to downsizing is that with smaller homes, come smaller bills and maintenance costs – all which can help add some extra weekly spending money. Ultimately, what you make of a downsize is up to you. Whether you use it as an opportunity to make lifestyle more comfortable and achievable or use it as a means to achieve a lifelong dream, that’s your decision.
May 8, 2018
APARTMENT FRIENDLY PLANTS
Being a Plant-parent is no longer limited to the few with green thumbs and large gardens. Those living in apartments can reap the benefits that plants bring, such as relaxation and purified air. Here are some top picks for plants that will thrive indoors or on your balcony. Euphorbia ‘Cowboy’ If watering, re-potting and moving the plants are things you want to keep out of your to-do list, this is the plant for you. Bring your favourite cartoons to life inside your apartment with this super hardy and reliable indoor plant. This wonder of nature will allow you to pretend your thumb is as green as these plants while completely neglecting their existence. Oh, and did I mention this plant allows you to jump on the succulent trend without anyone knowing? That’s right this look-a-like cartoon cactus is actually a succulent. Tricky bugger. [caption id="attachment_515" align="alignnone" width="500"] Image source: http://www.adamrobinsondesign.com/blog-posts/plant-of-the-month-the-euphorbia-cowboy[/caption] Golden Cane Palm If it’s a tropical look that you’re after, the Golden Cane Palm will surely meet the bill. While this plants needs a little love and care (it thrives with a liquid fertilise and trip to a shaded placeonce a month) it's reletively easy to keep happy. Because despite its name - keeping the palms inside allows its foliage to appear green. [caption id="attachment_516" align="alignnone" width="500"] Image source: http://hannahblackmorephotography.com/[/caption] Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’ Looking for something that will give your apartment some colour? Against a white wall, the dark burgundy coloured foliage of this guy will give your apartment a lush feel. While they can grow large, you won't need to worry about that as long as you keep the plant in pot. It’s also pretty difficult to kill this plant, unless you over water it - then this guy is done for. [caption id="attachment_517" align="alignnone" width="500"] Image source: http://hannahblackmorephotography.com/[/caption] Sansevieria This slithery fellow is also known as the Snake Plant, Mother In Law Tongue and by a few; the toughest plant alive! This hard looking plant is happy anywhere. If average isn't enoung for your Snake Plant and you want it to thrive, watering when the soil is completely dry and placing it somewhere that will give it medium light will do the trick. No pressure though, it's happy to go with the flow. [caption id="attachment_518" align="alignnone" width="500"] Image source: https://www.joyusgarden.com/sansevierias-aka-snake-plant-care/[/caption]
May 1, 2018
BEST ECO-FRIENDLY INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS OF 2018
Best Eco-friendly Interior Design Trends of 2018 When looking for trends to follow, going the eco-friendly route is a surefire way to ensure that your home will be comfortable, stylish and sustainable - did anyone say trifecta? Here are our favourite eco-friendly trends in interior design that 2018 has shown us so far. 1. Greenery Everywhere A trend any plant lover can get behind! We’re seeing the trend spread its roots from gardens beds and potted plants to green walls and roofs. And with increasing population in urban areas, bringing nature indoors is a great solution for tree-loving citenzens! [caption id="attachment_508" align="alignnone" width="500"] Image source: http://www.touchinteriors.com/[/caption] 2. Natural Lighting Natural light has always been in demand, but 2018 is seeing designers and homeowners focused on maximising the natural lighting within their homes through high ceilings and open-floor plans. Along with aesthetic benefits such as exposed beams and an overall airy atmosphere, the reduced need for artificial lighting allows you to do your little bit for the environment - all while in comfort! [caption id="attachment_509" align="alignnone" width="500"] Image source: http://www.bhphoto.biz/[/caption] 3. Bamboo Recycled material will continue to habe wide application and is great to use because of its ability to reduce the amount in landfill while giving your home a unique style. But 2018 has seen bamboo taking the eco-friendly material spotlight. Not only is it sustainable with its ability to be used within four years of planting (versus 60-70 years of their hardwood counterparts), but it gives designs a real chic appeal. [caption id="attachment_510" align="alignnone" width="500"] Image source: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/interiors-entertaining/g5705/beach-house-decor-ideas/?slide=21[/caption]