shelton-homes

Our Top Tips for Building your Modern Queensland Home

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 05:29:16 GMT

A bit of background around the 7 Stars.

The 2022 National Construction Code (NCC) will require all new Australian houses and apartments to meet a minimum energy efficiency rating of 7 stars under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Equivalent increases exist for other NCC compliance pathways: Deemed-to-Satisfy elemental provisions; and the Reference Building Verification Method. There will be allowances for 6 and 6.5 star houses with a compliant outdoor living area in NCC climate zones 1 and 2.

See Section S42C2 of Volume Two for more details, https://ncc.abcb.gov.au.

The most important first step is engaging our NatHERS assessor early in the design phase. Our design & construction process actively promotes and accommodates the expertise of NatHERS accredited assessors. These professionals are extensively trained to improve the energy efficiency of your home and offer tailored solutions to achieve your 7-star rating.

Get the NatHERS assessor involved early

OUR TOP TIPS TO GETTING YOUR QUEENSLAND HOME TO 7 STARS

Your Queensland homes orientation is key

Our modern Queensland homes are designed to suit the local climate of subtropical and warm temperate regions. Each home maximises shade and solar access based on your location. The living room is positioned with a northern orientation, while low-use rooms are placed to the west for added convenience & functionality.

Optimise window design on your beautiful Queensland home

Ensure optimal window design by considering sizing, placement, and shading based on the local climate. Minimise east and west facing windows to reduce heat gain and prioritise good ventilation with well positioned openings. Utilise wide eaves and awnings to shade the house in summer and allow winter sun penetration. Use high-performance glazing on sun-exposed windows where necessary.

Increase zoning

By including more internal doors in the design, mechanical heating and cooling estimates in NatHERS can be applied more accurately. Places to include doors may be at the end of corridors, the bottom of stairs or to close off occasionally used rooms, like media and rumpus rooms.

Insulate, insulate, insulate!

The R value of wall, floor and ceiling insulation has been increased. Ratings can be improved by extending insulation to new areas eg: underfloor insulation, the garage wall and internal walls. Care must be taken to not increase condensation risk.

We’re a FAN of Fans!

Specifying ceiling fans in all rooms will not only improve your NatHERS rating but the homeowners’ comfort.

Let’s talk colours

Discover the power of colour. By lightening external roof and wall colours you can achieve rating improvements. Don’t underestimate the impact of adjusting window frame colours for a refreshing change. We can collaborate with you and our design partners to create your desired home.

Lightbulb moment!

Look at lighting. NatHERS favours homes with fewer ceiling penetrations with higher ratings. Our modern queensland designs consider IC-4 rated downlights, consuming 80% less electricity and allowing insulation coverage. This is the most important factor but efficient lighting switches and lighting controls help reduce household energy consumption by providing lighting only when necessary. We’re here to support you through these requirements and make sure you get the Queensland home you’ve always wanted.

Everyone is different, so why aren’t their home designs?

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:29:16 GMT

You may have heard us mention that we are custom home builders…but what does that mean exactly?

At Shelton Homes, we take our job very seriously, and our job is to help make your dream home a reality. Custom home builders take the time to discuss and figure out what it is you may need and want to create. We don’t pump out cookie cutter home designs that look identical, we prefer to work closely with you during the design process and give you the freedom to add and change design aspects to suit your own aesthetic and lifestyle…butlers pantry anyone?

Rather than a generic email to go with your generic home design that you may receive with larger companies, you get to sit down with a member of our team to discuss your home. We are with you every step of the way from concept to completion, and even after to help with any ‘teething’ issues that may arise.

Genuine focus is given to each of our clients. You’re trusting us to build the home of your dreams, that’s kind of a big deal, so we treat it as one!

Personalised Service

Local Knowledge

Not to show our age or anything, but we’ve been building homes in this area for over 25 years! We know the land, the climate and how to build a home to suit the conditions. Not only can we help you build the home of your dreams, we can build you a home that is going to last and that you’re going to enjoy for years to come. Having been around for so long, we know the local suppliers, meaning things can often move faster and come at a better rate due to the relationships we’ve built.

Got Land? We’ll make it work

Not every block of land is the same, not every block of land would work for a cookie cutter home. The beauty is in the detail of the land. If you have a standout feature you want to keep, or an outlook you want to enjoy, we’ll make it work. We can evaluate the land and help to design a home to suit your needs with what is available. We add life to each build to make sure it’s a home.

BUT, you’re more expensive… right?

WRONG! Often people are turned off before even starting on the track of a custom home build because they think it will cost more, which isn’t always the case. Sure, if you want a spiral staircase with diamond encrusted railing and driveway turntable, it’s going to cost you a pretty penny…but a custom home build is not necessarily an expensive option. With builds starting from $450,000 for a quality Queenslander, it’s time to turn your dream home into a reality.

You set the budget, we take the time to understand your budget, goals and lifestyle. By understanding these key factors, we can help to deliver exceptional value for money and give you the options to help build in-line with your budget.

Hot Tips if you’re considering a Custom Home

Visit our website in your spare time to find features you may want to include in your home
Have a budget in mind, know exactly what you can spend
Keep a list of MUST-HAVES and a list of can-live-without
Take a look at our designs to see if there is a base you would like to work off
Use our Colour Consultant service to help you make all the fun choices – tiles, paint colours, handles, tapware etc.

Ready to build your dream custom Queenslander home with us? Of course you are, get in touch here.

Industry Shortages…Do you need to worry?

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:29:15 GMT

Let’s just kick things off by saying that with all the curveballs thrown into the building industry over the last couple of years, we have kept our programs in place to maintain a 26-week build time. Everyone has heard horror stories about building new homes in the current climate, so we wanted to take the time and explain exactly what has been happening, and how we are responding to it.

These things all sound bad, really bad. At Shelton Homes, we want to be fully transparent with you and believe that total disclosure is the only way we can build a relationship of trust.

Price Rises

When building your dream home, it’s important to us to have an experienced team running every project. About 9% of Australia’s workforce is employed in the construction industry, however, staff turnover sits at around the 10% mark which poses a significant challenge IF the staff are unhappy. Shelton Homes was started by, you guessed it, the Sheltons. We are a family-owned and operated business with a focus on hiring and retaining a quality workforce.

We believe that people do their best work when they are happy, so why not keep it that way? By having streamlined processes and organised systems in place, we can ensure our team isn’t overworked and a good culture is maintained.

Although it has played a big part, Covid isn’t the only thing to blame for material shortages. There is the obvious backlog from supply chain issues with international suppliers that wreaked mayhem on the building industry over the last couple of years. That coupled with an increase in demand due to government grants and the economic strain of purchasing existing homes has meant there are large material shortages. Due to the 2019 bushfires that hit parts of Australia, there was extensive damage to timber plantations which added another layer of stress to the already struggling construction industry. While all these matters have exacerbated the issues at hand, we have worked hard to minimise the impact of these issues on our clients.

Labour & Material Shortages

We won’t bore you with the details of supply and demand, but currently, in the building industry, the supply is low, and the demand is high which often leads to price rises. Almost every item used to build your dream home has increased in price. We aren’t happy about it either!

The price increases in materials have been enormous and while some builders may try to capitalise on this increase by hoisting their prices more than necessary, we want as many people as possible to live in their dream homes. Prices may have increased slightly to meet the industry prices, but you can bet your bottom dollar that we have kept our valued clients in mind and tried to keep the prices as low as possible.

Labour shortages, price rises, scheduling delays…GASP!

Scheduling Delays

With supply issues, price rises and staff walking off-sites, many companies are still experiencing scheduling delays from initial contract to handover. We are not one of those companies. Everyone ‘knows someone’ that has had their build time pushed out a week or 2, then a month, then 4 months later and they still aren’t in their home. We have been doing this for over 25 years, so we’ve gotten pretty good at sticking to a schedule.

With an easy 6-step Design Process + 6-step construction process building your dream home with us can take as little as 26 weeks. By putting your trust in a local family-run business, your overall experience is personalised, and you see us face to face. You are welcome on-site anytime to check the progress of your build and understand which step in the process your home is up to.

Long story short, if you’re building with Shelton Homes, you made the right choice. If after reading this you're convinced that we are the builders for you, check out our designs here or tell us about your custom design.

A Day in the Life

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 05:50:00 GMT

It all begins at the crack of dawn, a day in the life of a chippy.

Why are builders called chippys anyway? Contrary to popular belief, it has nothing to do with their preference for takeaways. As far back as the 16th century, a commonly used tool by carpenters was an adze which produced A LOT of wood chips. He who produces chips, is a chippy and so the slang was born.

Anyway, back to the day in the life of a Shelton Homes chippy.

Building Through the Owner's Eyes

If we were getting out of bed at 6am that would be a sleep-in! We aren’t going to give you a play-by-play here, but know that a builders day starts early. By the time most people are waking up and deciding if they want to get out of bed or catch that extra 10 minutes of Z’s, builders are already well into their day. Our clients are paying for a high-quality product so our builders start at the crack of dawn to ensure the project is completed at the highest quality, within the time frames provided. Everything has to be kept on track and ready for handover around the 24-26 week mark which can often mean long days.

Clock reads 6am

Our team does their best to build through your eyes. What does this mean exactly? Each client is different, with different needs, different preferences and different dream homes in mind. We do our best in every build to ensure your home is exactly how you want it. This thought pattern helps to provide a different perspective for every build. No two homes are the same which means our days don’t become mundane and repetitive. By seeing the plans, the finished product and everything in between through the owners' eyes, handover days are often just as exciting for us as they are for you.

Clock reads 8am

Is it time for smoko yet? The days are long and strenuous, so yes builders do need multiple opportunities to refuel. A quick break to scoff a brekky roll and iced coffee, a crate or esky creating the perfect seat and a chance to hash out what the next few hours will look like.

A nearby wheelie bin doubles as a desk when a call comes in to discuss the delivery of framing and then the day moves forward now that everyone has a renewed burst of energy.

You Are Always Welcome On Site

Throughout the build of your home, you are welcome anytime to come and check progress. Our builders will welcome you with open (but usually sweaty and dirty) arms and engage with you on which stage your home is up to.

It’s exciting! We get it! This is your dream home - of course, you want to know what the slab looks like, and the framing, and the roof and the wiring and the walls…do we need to go on? Often when our clients come to see the progress they are surprised by how much has been done and that’s a great feeling all round.

Got Questions? We Welcome Them

If something seems not quite right, if you have a question, if something isn’t quite what you envisioned, that’s okay. Ask a question, we welcome your questions at any time. We’ve been creating masterpieces since 1995 and stand by our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.

We want you to LOVE your home and if you’ve ever seen our testimonials, you know that our clients are ecstatic with the way their home has come together and it often exceeds their expectations.

When All Is Said and Done

The sweet serenity of handover! When a job is completed, the team comes together to do a walkthrough of the house. Everyone gets to appreciate the finished product and our builders get a sense of accomplishment with every build.

A discussion is had between the team on standout features, what was done well throughout the build, is there any process that could be improved? We are constantly evolving and constantly bettering ourselves to ensure every build is a successful combination of your vision and our quality workmanship and expertise.

Are you ready to experience building a Shelton Home? We welcome your call or enquiry , well we encourage it!

Love Your Locals

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 05:55:29 GMT

Should you choose a local builder in your quest to build your dream home? Spoiler alert - The answer is YES!

Choosing a builder is the first step to take when turning your dreams into a reality and you’ll want to make sure the builders you are trusting with your home are going to exceed your expectations. We’re not here to say - ‘we’re the best in the biz’ (we’ll leave that for you to decide...) but we’re going to give you a ton of reasons why choosing a local builder should be at the top of your priority list.

Product Service & Warranties

Maybe you’ve seen the Sheltons out and about around town? At your local shopping centre, restaurant or out supporting the community. That’s because we are locals. We live in Toowoomba, work in Toowoomba and the surroundings, and love Toowoomba.

By using a local builder, you are creating jobs for people in your community, whilst helping to boost the local economy. In towns like this, everybody knows someone who knows someone, which means a bad reputation would be very hard to hide. Seeking out a builder you can only read about online rather than hearing first-hand from people in your social circle can be dangerous. As the famous quote goes - “Don’t believe everything you read on the internet” - Abraham Lincoln. Do your research, ask around and meet with those local builders to hear from them firsthand, we hope you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Support Local Businesses, Support Local People

When building a home, things may go wrong, and that’s never fun to deal with. But do you know what makes the process a lot easier? Not having to wait on hold for 30minutes just to be told that someone would call you back…then waiting for a call that never comes. By working with someone that’s in your backyard (not quite literally) you can have the confidence in them to provide quality service even after the build is complete and you have paid in full.

Local Engineers

We may have talked about the importance of employing locals…But having local engineers on your side is a whole other bucket of soil! These engineers know Toowoomba and the Surrounds! They know all about red soil & black soil - which differ greatly from each other, not just in appearance! They know about the whiplash of Toowoomba's seasons and how that weather may affect your home. Having a local engineer involved means your home is built to withstand the local environment - not just copied and pasted from a computer design.

Each Home is Personalised to Suit You and Your Block of Land

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again - ‘Create your own masterpiece’. Take our designs as a base and we can help you tweak them into exactly what you have in mind. We can easily come to see your block of land and help utilise some considerations you weren’t aware of. We don’t have to charge extra for a site visit because it’s 300kms from our head office. Chances are, we won’t even need google maps to get there! Shelton Homes builds to the conditions of the area and your specific land because we know the area like the back of our hand!

Meet our Craftsmen Face to Face

We have been doing this for over 25 years and take great pride in our creations.! From your initial consultation to the concept drawings, through to handover, we're there with you every step of the way. There’s a reason so many of our testimonials mention Scott by name… because you’ll get to meet him face to face!

When using a large out-of-town company you may deal with a different person every time you pick up the phone. ‘Sorry, let me put you through to this department…. oh wait, no you need this department. You know what, we’ll call you back’. Not to mention, the majority of your designs and plans will be done via email making it very difficult to make amendments and changes. When using a local builder, your concerns are taken seriously, and your overall experience is much more personalised. We’re more than happy to meet in person to talk through your changes.

Okay, okay, have we given you enough reasons? We value long-term relationships and work hard to exceed your expectations. So make sure to show some love to your locals and use local businesses whenever possible - especially with such a monumental experience as building your dream home.

Create your own Masterpiece

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 06:02:13 GMT

Standard cookie cutter home design? No thanks.

There’s a reason that our Shelton Homes Mantra is ‘Create your own Masterpiece’. It’s because that’s what we offer when you decide to trust Shelton Homes. You come to us with hopes and dreams of the home you’ve always wanted and we help to morph it into a reality.

Ah yes, your budget.

The designs we have available (whilst being pretty amazing - if we do say so ourselves) are just a stepping stone. They are a base from which expectations are exceeded and input and amendments are encouraged. Take a peek at them here.

The designs we have available give you a base to start designing the home of your dreams, we will also help to prepare concept plans. Our draftsman is able to design a home that fits your block and site conditions, appeals to your sense of style, fits with site specific orientation and environmental factors and most importantly, is designed within your budget. (With a list that long it feels like we should be asking…do you want fries with that?)

“But you have house plans on your website like every other builder!”

No longer are the days of beautiful, quality Queenslander new build homes out of reach when you have a budget to stick to. We take the time to understand your budget, goals and lifestyle to ensure every aspect is met.

We’ll let you in on a little secret. You can build a quality Queenslander home from $400,000. We are not going to push specific inclusions on you and try to sneak your build cost higher and higher. We allow you to choose the inclusions that will suit your lifestyle and still fit within your budget. Each masterpiece we create is quoted individually. Our quote will include a detailed inclusion list based on our discussions with you so you know exactly what you’re in for.

At Shelton Homes, we’ve been doing this for over 25 years, so I guess you could say we know our stuff! Every home we build is a successful combination of your vision and our quality workmanship and expertise. Thinking of creating your own masterpiece? Get in touch with our team and you can be on your way to coming home to the house you’ve been dreaming of.

Kitchen Inspiration created by Shelton Homes.

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:13:39 GMT

Looking to build?

Maybe you're struggling for kitchen ideas? Look no further, our Kitchen Inspiration gallery showcases just some of our best kitchens. Ready to get inspired by beautiful kitchens?

8 Reasons You Will Love Working With Shelton Homes!

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 02:05:48 GMT

Perhaps you have been researching Queenslander Home builders, or looking at new home design ideas before making contact with a builder?

It can be a daunting task we know; it is not just about choosing a shiny house design from a website, you are investing in a new home for you and your family. Your place in the world where you can work, play, entertain and unwind after a long day.

A home that will make you smile when you drive up to it. We get it.

Shelton Homes are award winning Queenslander home builders, and for the last 20 years have been building stunning, superior quality Queenslander homes in Toowoomba, Darling Downs and the surrounding regions. You can meet a few of our delighted clients here.

We would love to build your dream home too, so put together a little article, eight reasons why you'll love working with Shelton Homes:

The right home design can truly mean the difference between a house that does not quite 'fit', and having a home that feels like it is made exclusively for you and your family.

Shelton Homes are unlike larger building companies, we are custom home builders in every sense of the word, working your needs and catering to every option, to ensure your new home perfectly compliments your lifestyle now, and in the exciting years to come.

1. Award Winning Queenslander Homes

Queenslander homes truly reflect Australia’s natural beauty; our homes are designed to showcase and embrace your unique property and views, be it an urban block, sloping block or a large rural property. We never treat two properties the same, because they never are!

Our team know the sustainability options for the Toowoomba and Darling Downs regions too, including those with healthy Queensland government rebates. Be sure to chat with us about solar, water tanks, waste disposal, and even introducing gorgeous gardens and native plants in and around your gorgeous new home.

2. A Home Built For Your Unique Land

Shelton Homes are committed to building timeless Queenslander homes that exceed our client's expectations, but we also know what it is like to manage a budget. That is why we strive to provide each client with the utmost value for their dollar.

Working within your budget, we will build your new Queenslander home that is a true statement of our commitment to superior quality craftsmanship. No matter what size home or budget you are working with, rest assured our team provide exceptional value.

3. Priced To Make Your Dream Home A Reality

At Shelton Homes, we proudly work where we live and have a lot riding on our reputation and strong community ties. For example, our kids attend local schools and play in Toowoomba and Darling Downs sports teams. We are locals too.

That is why we are passionate about quality and customer care, not simply making a sale and moving on like many larger building companies sadly do. If you would like to know more about us, or even come in and meet the Shelton Homes team for a coffee, please feel free to get in touch with us.

4. A Local Toowoomba And Darling Downs Team

A respected builder should put you at ease from the very beginning. They should be open and honest and take the time to listen and discuss all of your ideas, opinions and concerns to make your home building experience enjoyable and stress-free.

You can read more about our building process here if you like, a process we’ve created to ensure you'll love looking back and chatting about the beginnings of your beautiful new home, a great opener when entertaining guests.

5. An Easy, Stress-Free Building Process

Larger companies are famous for their poor communication and support skills, like internet providers or health insurance companies where you will be waiting in line, talking to people whose only job is to answer phones, etc. Larger building companies can also be like this, and you might not even be able to talk to the builder and tradespeople actually building your home, not good.

Shelton Homes however, provide a real personal approach where we actively invite you to come out and see our team building your home and ask questions, and no question is a silly question in our eyes! You can meet the Shelton Homes team if you like, and always feel free to ask us a questions if it is on your mind.

6. No Question Is A Silly Question

With impeccable craftsmanship and a 100% guarantee on our work, we only use the best local tradespeople around; labourers, landscapers, painters, decorators and suppliers who take great pride in their work.

Our tradespeople know that attention to detail matters when it comes to building your dream home, and we do not cut corners for the sake of increasing profit margins because we know that doesn’t work. Our superior results, we believe, reflects our approach to quality first.

7. Quality That Lasts A Lifetime

At Shelton Homes, we love what we do, designing and building beautiful Queenslander homes that exceed our client's expectations, and we would like to work with you too! We were even thinking about calling this article 8 Reasons Shelton Homes Would Love To Work With You.

If you are interested in chatting further about your dream Queenslander home, please just get in touch with the friendly team at Shelton Homes today.

8. We Are A Passionate, Friendly Team

What Are 'Home Inclusions’ Anyway?

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 00:19:50 GMT

When it comes to finding the perfect builder for your dream Queenslander home, aside from evaluating builders on their experience and portfolios, it is also important to understand the ‘home inclusions’ each builder offers.

Home inclusions can be a labyrinth if you are not prepared to evaluate them. For example, some builders include high-end kitchen appliances as part of their inclusions, others the most basic, and the list of differences goes on, and on.

At Shelton Homes, we actually do not offer set inclusion packages or upgrades, instead, we ask you what you want.

This just seems more personal and logical to us.

So while we approach things a little differently, it is worth talking about 'home inclusions' if you are also considering another building company, especially a Brisbane mega home company.

These big guys can get sneaky, and many larger builders will try to up-sell you after you have got a base home price, and remarkably even after you have signed a contract!

Home Inclusions, What You Must Know

Custom builders like Shelton Homes have allowances so you can choose your own inclusion brands if you like. But one thing to note with any builder, is that it is always best to buy from the builder’s recommended suppliers.

Why?

From our 20+ years experience, nightmares can occur if you buy online or outside of the Toowoomba/Brisbane region. Delivery costs increase, delays set in with the overall build schedule, and repairs and replacements are not covered under your builder’s warranty when you source your own inclusions.

If you work with Shelton Homes, we will take the time to chat about the inclusions you want, and then build this into your fixed price contract so there are no surprises.

Again, it comes down to caring we think, and if you are researching Shelton Homes, please feel free to see what our clients say about our approach here.

What Are Standard Home Inclusions?

Inclusions generally speaking, do not include items such as landscaping and gardens, footpaths or fencing, window furnishings like shutters, or removal of excess soil after excavation.

Aside from that, everything else might be included in your inclusions. It varies significantly from builder to builder.

Confusing? You bet.

A good rule of thumb to combat these variations from other building companies, is to allow for several additions and upgrades. Again while Shelton Homes does not work this way, we would recommend that 75% goes towards the base price of your new home, and the other 25% is reserved for upgrades.

Here Is Why:

A display home often is not the home you are actually buying. They usually have a bunch of upgrades, such as nicer carpeting, higher quality light fittings, extra power points, better kitchen fittings (you name it). You will need to allow for the inclusions you want.

If you do end up researching larger building companies, please put aside a few days to research and compare what inclusions are included.

Why Do Different Builders Have Different Inclusions?

In essence, different builders target different buyers and demographics. Some builders target singles, others families, others retirees.

Many larger building companies even have ‘sub-brands’ with a different image to help sell more homes, like those that are marketed towards first home buyers.

It really is a maze when you start diving into it, and that is another reason we do not offer set inclusion packages. We believe building your home should be a simple, enjoyable and transparent experience.

Want To Know More About Inclusions?

If you are looking to build a beautiful new Queenslander home in the Toowoomba or Darling Downs region that is designed around your lifestyle (including the inclusions you want), then please feel free to get in touch and contact our Shelton Homes team today.

12 Step Design And Construction Process

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 01:57:44 GMT

Shelton Homes are award winning Queenslander home builders. if you're yet to see the stunning homes we build for our clients please feel free to see a few videos here

We also offer something most builders don't, a 100% satisfaction guarantee to give you even further peace of mind. We guarantee that your new home will be delivered on schedule, on budget and completed to a superior quality standard.

The key: Shelton Homes have created an outstanding design and construction process, derived from years of experience and commitment to ensure the home you’ve been dreaming of, is the one you'll soon be moving into.

Here’s your step-by-step process that we use this for all projects, whether you’re building your new home in the Toowoomba and Darling Downs regions of Queensland, or anywhere else.

After chatting with you on the phone, we’ll organise a viewing of your land. This includes examining all factors relevant to your build, including slope, drainage, block size, soil type, aspect, surrounding homes and availability of services. This consultation is important to initially understanding the technicals and viability of your Queenslander project.

1. Initial Consultation Process

2. Pricing Estimate And Signature Inclusions

We’ll work closely with you to recommend a home design that will meet your needs, fits your site and perfectly suit your budget. A big part of this step is learning about your lifestyle and goals, like if you are looking to expand your family in the years to come. Between steps 1 and 2, we will already have an amazing understanding of your project and goals.

3. Preliminary Agreement

This agreement is not a contract but is necessary for us to go ahead with more detailed technical planning including site surveys, soil tests and initial building approvals.

4. Your Queenslander Home Concept Drawings

By drawing up and reviewing preliminary plans, you can start to get a feel for your new home. This stage is essential as it sets the foundation and style for your final construction drawings.

After your feedback and input, our draftsman will take the concepts and make sure that the design is right for your land, your sense of style and your budget.

5. Input And Amendments

6. Construction Drawings, Specifications And Quote

With the designs now finalised, we’ll provide you with a formal quote. This quote will include all costs associated with the inclusions list we've been working on. If you already have a quote with us and have any questions, big or small as you’re reviewing it, please always feel free to get in touch with us.

At a meeting with you to cover the finer details, we’ll finalise the quote and all options we've been discussing. Any required changes are then made to ensure you are completely comfortable with moving to the engineering plans and beginning construction.

7. Your Approval And Selection Process

Engineering plans are based on the construction drawings we have been working towards to suit your lifestyle and budget goals, but are more detailed for council approvals and our dedicated team of builders on site. Engineering plans take into account all of the technical, regulatory and environmental aspects.

8. Detailed Engineering Plans

At this stage, we are excitingly ready to go and commence construction. It’s now time to confirm the contracts which are industry standard Residential Contracts from the Master Builders Association. We then request a 5% deposit, as well as finalisation of your investment arrangements. It is however, common to have pre-approval at one of the early stages.

9. Contract And Deposit

As a final step before construction, we will need the local Toowoomba or Darling Downs council’s approval. We’ll submit your construction plans and take care of all of the heavy lifting. We work closely with the local councils and usually expect their formal approval in around four weeks.

10. Council Submission Of Plans

It’s time to start building! We’ll arrange a meeting to introduce you to your master builder and organise onsite meetings. You’ll be invited to give your input regularly, ensuring your peace of mind. Progress payments are required throughout the project as outlined in your contract and arranged with your financial provider. There are no surprises here, and we will be working closely throughout the entire construction phase.

11. Construction Phase

This is the most exciting step! We’ll join you for a detailed inspection and walk-through of your new home, to make sure everything is perfect before finalising the paperwork, certificates, warranties and manuals, and answering any questions you may have before moving in. You will then have the keys and your new home to love and enjoy.

If you would like to learn more about our award winning team, please feel free to con tact the friendly team at Shelton Homes to arrange a free consultation, we'd love to hear from you!

12. Handover To Your New Queenslander Home

5 Tips To Ensure Your New Home Is Within Your Budget

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 01:50:32 GMT

If you’re looking to build a new Queenslander home, one area you may need some help with is knowing how much you could, or should be spending. For most people, there are a lot of budgeting decisions that need to be made, and for everyone a lot of paperwork and moving parts to digest.

You'll also have to find the right block of land if you don't have one already, and a trusted builder that can build within your budget, without any surprise add-ons along the way.

It can quickly seem overwhelming, so to help, we've prepared an easy list to help you make sure your new home is on financial track.

1. Know Your Budget Inside Out

This may seem obvious, but it's critical to know how much you have to spend now, and in 15-25 years time if you are taking out a mortgage.

First, consider your current financial commitments and lifestyle, and look at some worst case scenarios, like what if you or your partner lost their job, what if you get sick, etc. Circumstances can quickly change and it's always best to be financially prepared, be it with insurances or savings to get you through any rough patches.

Our recommendation is to do your research first, and then get advice from financial advisors or lenders. A mortgage advisor for example can tell you how much you can borrow, but they may tell you that you can afford more than suits your lifestyle, hence why doing your research first is important.

Once you know your budget, you can start to look for vacant land in your desired location if you haven't bought land already.

The type of block you choose will have a direct impact on the type of home designs that will be suitable. The factors that have the biggest bearing on costs include:

- The size of your block

- The slope of your block

- The soil type

You may also find that building costs will increase if your home requires complicated or reinforced foundations, or needs a unique design because of the slope of your land. Saying that though, Queenslander homes are perfect for sloping blocks.

Other factors to consider are your local amenities, both the ones currently in your area and those that are planned for future development such as a hospital, schools, public transport and shops. Petrol and car maintenance is not cheap, so if you are going to have to spend a lot of time commuting, you need to take that into consideration too.

2. Choosing The Right Block Of Land

Whether you have a clear picture or just a few ideas of how you want your home to look, feel and function on the inside and out, it's always worth writing these down for discussions with your architect or builder. Your builder will be able to work through your list and flesh out your ideas with you, which means the end result will be your dream home, not the builders.

Knowing what you want in your dream home is not always possible, but your wish list will set a perfect starting point to designing a home that’s within your budget.

3. Write Down Your Ideas For Your Dream Home

Choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you can make, and a decision that directly impacts your budget. By talking to your builder, you’ll find out what can be achieved within your budget, and what can't. A good builder will also help you focus on what’s important first, i.e. number of bedrooms or size of entertainment areas, and they can outline the benefits of sustainable living options such as water tanks, solar and energy efficient home designs.

Try to think about the qualities you want in your builder and do some research to ensure other people have had great experiences with them already. Quality, trusted builders will have video testimonials and project galleries like these: Our Work

4. Talk To Your Preferred Builder About Your Goals

5. Start Contacting Builders For Quotes

How Do You Choose The Perfect Rural Home?

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 01:43:00 GMT

In Australia, it goes without saying that Queenslander homes are the most desired homes for families living on rural properties. You don't need to drive far out of Brisbane to see stunning new, and charming older Queenslander homes nestled gorgeously amongst bushland and on working farms.

For over 20 years Shelton Homes have been proudly designing and building quality Queenslanders in Toowoomba, Darling Downs and the surrounding areas. One questions we often get asked is, "what home design is right for my family?".

For rural property owners, the answer can in fact come down to your unique land, so we have prepared a little article to help you find the perfect home for your property and rural lifestyle!

Queenslander homes truly reflect Australia’s beauty, with spacious, airy high ceilings, stunning kitchens and wide open verandas that capture, and embrace your land. The size of your home however can be a challenge to get right. Too small and you will be wishing you went larger, too large and you might miss the cosy feeling Queenslanders are famous for.

The size of your home can also determine where your home is built on your property. For example, if you need to level land - what sort of power requirements you need and how close can you build to sheds or paddocks, etc. To get started with the size of your home, here are three quick questions:

How many bedrooms do you need now and in the future for guests, family or grandkids?
Ideally, how many bathrooms or ensuites would make your home most comfortable?
Do you need any speciality rooms for entertainment, hobbies or work?

These three questions should get you pointed in the right direction to determine the home size. If you need a little inspiration, please feel free to see our popular home designs here.

1. Choosing The Size Of Your New Home

If you have owned your property for a while, you probably know where the best views are and have an idea of where you want to build, but it is always worth exploring your entire property.

Choosing the right location requires some forethought. Imagine you build on a hill with a lovely view that includes your neighbour’s land. Then your neighbour sells their property and the new owners build a commercial farm. Your views can quickly change. Similarly, if new housing estates are planned for future development, you need to be aware of it.

It is worth doing your research before choosing your home's location, and if you need help please just contact our team, we know the Toowoomba and Darling Downs regions like the backs of our hands.

2. The Best Position Is About More Than Just The Views

Your driveway and utilities can absolutely determine where you build your home on our property, not just the ability to install utilities if you have rock or clay, but simply based on budget alone! The longer your driveway and the more extreme the elevation, the more building and maintenance cost you will incur.

The cost to run power, gas, water and other utilities can add up fast, so the best option is to seek estimations before falling in love with a view or location. It is also worth checking if broadband, cable or the NBN are available before deciding where to put your home on your property, just in case you need to rely on 3G or 4G internet access.

3. Consider Your Driveway And Utilities

One of the unsung beauties of Queenslander homes is that you can often avoid the expenses required to level land or lay down concrete slabs to build your new home. Queenslanders only require foundation pillars unless you want otherwise. Keep in mind, that like all land, your soil may have a tendency to shift or sink and require additional work to prevent any future issues.

A soil test will also help you determine how easy it will be to get utilities to your home, uncover areas you might want to avoid building on and support your farming or livestock plans.

4. Getting A Soil Test On Your Preferred Locations

We think it is best to do your own research to get the knowledge you need for making decisions. We also recommend talking to an expert before making any unknown or final decisions so you are not disappointed with your choice and to avoid unforeseen budget blowouts.

When done right, building a beautiful rural Queenslander home can be an experience you will love and remember forever, just like for Matt and Jen.

Building your home is not something that can be rushed, you need to know your property and ideal home size. If you are still unsure, please feel free to get in touch with our friendly team, browse our website for more information or see some of our most popular rural home designs here.

5. Seek Expert Advice Before Making Any Final Decisions

Looking For The Ultimate Family Home? Have You Seen The Stunning Bilby?

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 01:37:01 GMT

If you are looking for the ultimate family home, one that offers abundant space, is layered in charm, and provides the rock-solid foundations your family needs, then you will love the Bilby.

The Bilby leans towards a traditional Queenslander home in looks, but has all of the modern design aesthetics and practically you could imagine. For example, the Bilby has a traditional lounge room that can be closed off for movie night, and also a warm and inviting open kitchen, living area and deck that's perfect for bringing a busy family together.

With the Bilby, you will have the best of all worlds.

We adore the Bilby, and we think you will too!

Here are some charming reasons why:

1. Exquisite Street Appeal

Street appeal refers to the way people perceive your home. It is the picture your neighbours, guests and people driving past see and the first impression for anyone who visits your home. Why some people may not care too much about street appeal, being proud of your home is a remarkable feeling!

The Bilby is a stunning Queenslander home that is brimming with charm, stability, security and old-fashioned hospitality. It looks (and indeed is) a home you can raise many generations in, the home your kid's friends will want to play in, and their parents visit for bbq's. This is the home people gravitate to.

2. Verandah Wrapping Around The Front And Sides

Traditional Queenslander verandahs adorn the most spectacular homes in Toowoomba and Darling Downs, and the Bilby is no exception with beautifully framed catching white posts and decorative balustrades.

Today, verandahs are used for more than admiring the view. The modern Queenslander verandah is a fully functional living space for kids to play, a place to store shoes and outdoor belongings and a spot to enjoy your fresh morning coffee. Of course, the Bilby also has a large private deck out back, so you can choose where you want to spend your time.

3. Magnificent Nine-Foot Ceilings

It has been proven that higher ceilings lead to clearer thinking, higher energy levels and an overall feeling of happiness. The Bilby home has by design, magnificent nine-foot ceilings throughout most living spaces.

Nine-foot ceilings are ideal if you want to provide a sense of openness for everyone inside. High ceilings also help with air-flow, and this again contributes to having a home that does not feel closed in. If you want space and openness, you will love the Bilby.

Street appeal is one thing, everyday living appeal is another! The Bilby has this in spades, with the entry, hallways and living areas all having spectacular polished hardwood flooring.

Polished hardwood flooring not only looks timeless, but in our opinion having built Queenslander homes for over 20 years, is still the most superior flooring option available. Polished hardwood flooring is remarkably tough, easy to clean, and will make your home feel like the roots you are building on.

4. Polished Hardwood Flooring Throughout

When it comes to a growing family, nothing beats having shared areas like a big open kitchen, but also individual space. The Bilby truly has it all. With four bedrooms, including a master with luxurious ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, you will have more than ample room.

Even better, each Bilby bedroom has a built-in wardrobe designed uniquely to fit the design and function of the room. This makes storage a dream! The Bilby also has a purpose-built study room, so rest assured, there is a perfect space for everyone.

5. Four Spacious Bedrooms, All With Built-Ins

6. Open Living Areas With A Huge Rear Deck

The Bilby has both a separate lounge room for movie nights and a magnificent open living area with a combined kitchen, living and meals area that spills out onto a huge private deck.

The Bilby is a dream home for entertaining and family gatherings, from breakfast to Christmas. You will also have an open kitchen that is designed from ground-up for both the largest of events and everyday meal prep. There is plenty of room for your appliances, and a large walk-in pantry to keep everything perfectly organised. Lovely!

7. Designed For The Whole Family

The Bilby was designed for a growing family, to give everyone their own special place. However, the Bilby also doubles as the ideal sanctuary for just a few. Notice that the master bedroom is at one end, and all of the other bedrooms up the other end? If the kids are away (or there), you will always have your own private quarters.

A Modern Queenslander With Space, Character and Charm

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 01:29:25 GMT

If you're craving privacy, peace and plenty of space to move around, then the Wattle 1.1, is the perfect Queenslander home for you.

Offering contemporary Australian family living with traditional Queenslander charm at its best, with wrap-around verandahs, timber flooring and classic Queenslander trimmings, the character of a Queenslander has been beautifully preserved and incorporated into a modern and sophisticated interior, all the way from the light-filled entry hall to the living areas.

Built elevated with a lightweight wood construction to allow air to pass under and the heat to escape quickly, the Wattle 1.1 is perfect for quality, informal living all throughout the year, providing a comfortable and protected area.

Enduring Beauty of Our Classic Queenslander Verandahs

The entire house is wrapped around by beautifully framed catching white posts and decorative balustrades, blocking out the sun, protecting you from torrential downpours and giving you privacy.

Much more than a passageway between public and private spaces - you can create a fully functional living space for your children to play, entertain guests, use them as storage space, watch the magnificent sunset or sunrise or simply enjoy a fresh morning breakfast or coffee with your loved ones.

Immense Street Appeal

The Wattle 1.1 comes with immense street appeal, with an old-fashioned, magical beauty that you cannot find elsewhere, a home that you and your family will want to stay and enjoy and not go elsewhere at all!

Stunning Living Interiors

At a sprawling 316.4 square meters, this stunning Queenslander is also designed around your lifestyle with plenty of space for your family to relax and enjoy, with 4 bedrooms and study with high ceilings, a separate lounge, a rumpus room, large outdoor deck areas and 2 bathrooms.

The Wattle 1.1 houses the best bedrooms you could find, with the greatest mix of style, functionality and appeal, with subtle lighting, softened colours, a built-in wardrobe and a specially make study to create a relaxing and resting haven for you.

The designer kitchen could very well be the centre of attraction for any professional chef or for that matter, anyone who loves to cook! Mostly white with a gas cooking top, stainless steel hood and oven, a sleek island bench and a central feature chandelier, cooking is simply a delight here! Throw open the multiple glass doors and the kitchen flows out to a magnificent open deck where you can wine and dine with family and friends throughout the seasons, with the beautiful chirps of the birds in the background and the gentle breezes.

And yes, everyone will love movie nights and overnight games in our spacious family-sized rumpus room or lounge!

Polished Timber Floorings

Polished timber floorings run throughout the house, giving it a timeless look. These are the most superior flooring options that you can ever ask for because of its durability and ease of cleaning.

A spectacular enclave for entertaining, wine and dine, family gatherings, Christmas parties or even corporate events such as networking sessions, the Wattle 1.1 is your dream home, with everything you need for every member of your family - with quality build furnishing and appliances, abundant space and a timeless character and elegance you cannot find anywhere else.

7 Reasons People Recommend Shelton Homes To Their Friends And Family

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 01:21:38 GMT

For more than 20 years Shelton Homes have been building beautiful Queenslander homes in the Toowoomba and Darling Downs areas. During this time, we have seen the home building industry in Australia change, sadly not for the better.

Nowadays, the home building industry is predominantly run by larger construction companies that actually pay very little attention their client's needs. You can see this by researching any major home construction company online.

Trust, unfortunately, is slowly becoming a thing of the past.

But here at Shelton Homes, we believe that your home building experience should be a personal and highly rewarding experience. Nothing should be much trouble or too difficult, and you should be able to go to bed at night dreaming of your new home, not lying awake doubting any decisions.

That is why we have put this little article together, 7 reasons why our clients recommend Shelton Homes to their friends and family.

1. Our Team Are More Than Qualified

Building qualifications are a given, so is ongoing training for us. Passion, however, is what we believe separates good builders, from outstanding builders.

As a family owned and run business, Jane and Scott Shelton only hire people who share their belief that every client should be beyond delighted with their new Queenslander homes. We only work with a handful of clients each year too, so you can be sure that most important home we are building, is yours.

2. A Fixed-Price Building Contract, Guaranteed

Building a new home is a big financial commitment for most people, so you need to be sure that the team you work with, understand what your dream home really means, and the financial commitment you are making.

When you sign a Master Builders Queensland Agreement with Shelton Homes and your land and construction has been approved, the quote we provide is the only costs you will pay. Clear, transparent and easy to understand terms, guaranteed.

3. Our Queenslander Homes Are Made For Living

A beautiful home is one thing, a beautiful home that is made for living in is another. With over 20 years of home design knowledge and feedback from hundreds of clients, you can be sure that your new Queenslander home will have the perfect mix of form and function.

We listen, we care, and we build your home for you.

4. We Understand Investment

Even if you never plan to sell or move away from the Toowoomba and Darling Downs regions, it is still good to know that your home is a solid investment now, and for the future.

Our investment knowledge comes from years in the local community and building industry, knowing Toowoomba and the Darling Downs regions like the back of our hands. We live here too.

If you are looking to build an investment property, please just contact our friendly team for a chat on 0417 961 667 or contact us for a chat.

5. Strict Quality Control Procedures

Shelton Homes have developed a 12-Step design and construction process that's derived from years of Queenslander Home building experience.

This is why we fully guarantee that your new home will be delivered on time, on budget and completed to a superior quality standard.

6. We Live In Toowoomba and Darling Downs Too

Unlike the bigger construction companies that advertise in the Toowoomba and Darling Downs regions, then send workers from Brisbane, we are proud to say that we work where we live. Right here.

As such, our entire livelihoods depend on our reputation and local community ties. Perhaps this point should have been the first, as it explains exactly why we go above and beyond to build the most loved Queenslander homes you will find anywhere in the area.

7. We Are Here After Your Home Is Built

Like the previous point, we are here after your home is complete too, not back in Brisbane or elsewhere working on another project and too busy to help.

For these reasons, you can rest easy at night knowing that should you need help with any warranty needs, repairs or replacement, we will be there.

Looking For A Highly Trusted Queenslander Home Builder?

If you want to build a new Queenslander home in Toowoomba or the Darling Downs regions, please feel free to get in touch. We have over 20 years experience building stunning Queenslander homes, and we would love to build yours too.

Shelton Homes, Who Are We?

Wed, 25 Dec 2019 00:39:56 GMT

Chances are if you live in Toowoomba or the Darling Downs area, you have seen the team from Shelton Homes around. Perhaps at the shops, the local footy field, that stunning new Queenslander home being built down the road.

Welcome to Shelton Homes, a trusted name in the homebuilding industry since 1995. As a family-owned business turned reputable company, we're passionate about creating houses that feel like home.

Specializing in custom Queenslander-style homes, we create spaces that embody comfort, luxury, and timeless charm. From wide sweeping verandahs and ceilings that allow your mind to breathe, to touches of luxury and cosy spaces for fireplaces, we invite you to relax and enjoy the beauty of your home.

Transparency and personable service are at the core of our approach. From the smallest details to the overall design, we strive for perfection. Our commitment to excellence is recognized through our membership in the Master Builder Association.

We believe in giving back to the industry that has supported us. Over the past 25 years, we've trained multiple apprentices, nurturing the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

Today, Shelton Homes has a dedicated team of employees and trusted trade partners, we've built strong relationships that span a decade or more.

Come home to a Shelton Home, where every detail is thoughtfully considered. Experience the beauty of a Queenslander-style home and discover what incredible looks!

The Queenslander Verandah, The Perfect Outdoor Living Area

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 00:38:14 GMT

When Europeans first settled in our sub-tropical environment, they needed a way to beat the Queensland heat and humidity. And with a spur of sunny inspiration and no doubt an ale or fresh pot of tea in hand, they designed what we have come to know as the famous Queenslander verandah.

Even back then, relaxing on a new Queenslander verandah to watch the magnificent red and purple glow of the setting sun on the horizon, or the wild rumblings of a storm rolling in, seemed like a must have.

Today, many of our clients in the Toowoomba and Darling Downs regions use their verandah’s for more than admiring the view, the modern Queenslander verandah is now a fully functional living space!

Use your verandah for everyday brekkie, relaxing alone or entertaining friends and family with a spread of fresh yummy food and drinks. It is the atmosphere that only a Queenslander verandah can provide that we truly love.

A well-designed Queenslander verandah can do it all. It is the perfect escape when needed, or can be the one place where family and friends instinctively gather when you fire up the BBQ, play board games or simply enjoy the perfect summer evening.

Your verandah is not just a room, it is an outdoor living space. Trust us when we say that your verandah will be the most loved and used place in your new Queenslander home.

A Living Space Like No Other

The Traditional Queenslander Verandah Design

You can see traditional Queenslander verandah’s in most Toowoomba and Darling Downs suburbs, beautifully framed with catching white posts and decorative balustrades.

Louvers and awnings are loved additions to the Queenslander verandah, providing a natural way to control the breeze and block out the harsh mid-morning or afternoon sun. Louvers not only look timeless, but also help protect your verandah from torrential rain if you would like to use it year-round, and who wouldn’t!

French doors are a common sight too, and these days striking large 'barn style' sliding doors to create a shared indoor and outdoor living experience, enhancing the size of your home while capturing cool breezes and more natural light.

Choosing The Right Features For Your Own Verandah

In the planning stage, it is important to think about what you want for both aesthetics and your outdoor lifestyle.

Some things to consider include:

What type of furniture do you want on your verandah, modern or classic?
What colour will your furnishing and home exterior be?
Do you need a roof fan, BBQ, power for a stereo, what kind of lighting?
Are you using the area for entertaining, if so, how many people?
Do you need an undercover clothesline; shoe racks or kids toys storage?
Will your pets be sleeping on the verandah?

Try to think about the finer details too, that will make your verandah truly yours. How about hanging bike racks, a jukebox and pool table, or a feature powder mirror. Or what about a few hammocks or beanbags to turn your verandah into a tropical retreat.

What Type Of Lights Will Best Match Your Verandah?

Custom lighting is the perfect way to enhance your outdoor experience. Consider the options like downlights that can create a modern and elegant atmosphere, and be dimmed to your liking at night. How about wall lights or free standing lamps for an individual look and feel.

Solar fairy lights are another way to create the ultimate outdoor living atmosphere.

Looking For The Perfect Queenslander Verandah?

If you are looking to build a new Queenslander home in the Toowoomba or Darling Downs regions, please feel free to get in touch with Shelton Homes. We have over 20 years’ experience designing and building Queenslander homes (and their verandah’s) for the local community.

A Short History Of Queenslander Homes

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 00:30:12 GMT

You only need to drive down a street here in Toowoomba, and you will see a charming variety of Queenslander Homes, some beyond pristine, others well worn but still going strong raising generations of local families.

Queenslander homes are known for their vernacular architecture, a term coined by American architect Bernard Rudofsky in 1964. Vernacular architecture is an indigenous style of architecture that has naturally evolved to meet the local climate, available construction materials, trends and core human needs.

When you look past the beautiful Queenslander home aesthetics and features, you will find a home built for a comfort and purpose. In this article, we highlight the movements that brought the Queenslander home to life.

The Birth Of The Queenslander Home

Queenslander homes in Brisbane and the Darling Downs region can be traced back to around 1840, and are believed to have been designed for British and European migrants, from wealthy families to fruit pickers who were not used to Queensland's subtropical climate.

True to vernacular architecture, the warm climate directly laid the path using local materials, and with wide verandas that provided relief from the sun during the day, and shelter in the heavy afternoon downpours.

Commercial buildings quickly adopted the practical Queenslander design with many famous Queenslander Pubs like The Meringandan Hotel or The Farmers Arms Hotel still standing in the Darling Downs region. Amazingly The Farmers Arms Hotel holds the record for the longest continuous liquor licence in Queensland, held since 1863.

A New, Beautiful Post War Home

While you may have seen Queenslander style homes all around Australia, including Tasmania, our Queenslanders were a little different. Ours had wider, longer verandas with distinct large double doors to the veranda, and they were uniquely raised on vertical timber stumps for additional cooling and flood protection. Since WW2 however, traditional wooden stumps were replaced with steel or concrete, and many design elements have continued to evolve. You can see a few classic and modern Queenslander home designs in our folio here.

Elegant Doorways And Proud Roofs

While some features look decorative, such as the breezeway woodwork above the internal doorways on traditional Queenslanders, these were again part of the vernacular architecture, functionality that allowed for moving breezes while separating private and common spaces in the home. The bedroom and living areas often separated by a hallway to further increase privacy.

Roofs, in general, were made of corrugated iron or tin and raised in the centre to protect and release heat from the centre of the house, with trees planted near the outer walls for additional shade.

Around the rest of the property you could often find mango, citrus, passionfruit, frangipani and hibiscus trees, all trees that created the traditional Queenslander home the charm we adore.

A Timeless Family Retreat

Part of what made a Queenslander a true family home in the 1800's before TV and Play Station's, was the space under the house that created an enchanting area for children who could escape the heat and afternoon storms to play.

In the Darling Downs regions, you can still many of these raised Queenslanders with garages, training areas, laundries and entertainment areas underneath. The choice truly is yours nowadays though.

The Queenslander Home Building Boom

Interestingly but perhaps not surprisingly, the biggest Queenslander home building boom was when soldiers returned from WW1 in 1919 to study or start new families. Thousands of new Queenslander homes were built in the 1920s and early 1930s, with many of the more extravagant Queenslanders still standing around Toowoomba and the Darling Downs regions, easily identified by their size and exotic roof lines.

Queenslander Homes Today

Jump forward 180 years and Queenslander Homes are now as popular as ever, because while technology like air-conditioning is standard in almost all new homes, energy consumption and costs are now at their peak.

Energy-efficient, highly sustainable Queenslander homes are at the forefront again and if you would like to chat about your ideas for your next Queenslander home, please feel free to get in touch with the team at Shelton Homes on 0417 961 667 .

Design And Unwind In The Perfect Queenslander Home Master Bedroom

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 01:18:22 GMT

If you are looking to build a new Queenslander home in Toowoomba or the Darling Downs areas, it is worth taking the time to dream about, and plan your next master bedroom.

Sleek and simple or exotically glamorous, the best master bedrooms mix functionality, style and a sense of charm to create the perfect space. Whether you are going for dark and refined or light and elegant, think beautiful textures, softened colours and subtle lighting.

There can be a lot of choices to make, but considering we spend around at least a third of our lives in our bedroom, getting it right will mean having a place you love to relax, read, sleep and get ready for every inspirational day.

Here at Shelton Homes we work closely with clients to design and build their dream Queenslander homes. Here’s our ‘ultimate master bedroom’ guide:

1. Start With The Essentials, Your Queenslander Home’s Design

There are a few essentials that make a perfect master bedroom, and air ventilation is one of them. For good airflow and being able to catch those cool afternoon summer breezes in Toowoomba, we recommend windows on at least two walls in your master bedroom.

In fact, our Shelton Homes designs include this window layout already as it is so essential. We also create fully customised home plans for clients too, ensuring everything is perfect including the orientation of the master bedroom to optimise sunlight on their blocks of land. You can see some of our Queenslander home designs here.

Air conditioning to help sleep easy in summer is also a bit of a necessity here in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs areas, and a ceiling fan can be a must too. Fans nowadays are a design feature and can save you significantly on power bills, so we would recommend a nice quality fan at minimal.

Next, think about the comfort features you have always wanted:

Perhaps a walk in wardrobe?
A luxurious ensuite?
A private veranda the kids can not access?
A custom wall unit for your books or TV?
It is best to dream big and scale down to find the perfect master bedroom balance.

2. Use A Colour Scheme That Helps You Relax

A UK study found that hues of blue and green have a soothing effect and help us sleep for longer. A natural and neutral colour scheme in your master bedroom will help to calm for a good night's sleep and a fresh atmosphere when you wake up.

The beautiful natural Toowoomba sunlight helps our bodies natural alarm clock go off, so if you enjoy a good sleep-in or have street lighting outside of your bedroom, it is worth considering louvres or linen curtains with a pull down block out blind behind it to keep your room dark and cool.

If you want to step outside of the norm and have ideas for creating a one of a kind atmosphere through vivid colours, then we would highly recommend a colour consultant. You can see what colour consultants do here.

3. Creating Layers Of Comfort In Your Master Bedroom

Now that you have decided on your master bedroom's essentials and colour scheme for the looks and feel you are after, it is time to think about the comforts.

When building a new bedroom it can often be worth investing is a new high-quality mattress, especially for people living with arthritis or back pains. Then think about your bed covers, a feature bedroom chair, cushions, rugs and throws that create a comforting mood and invite us to relax. Using fabrics and textures that are soft is key here.

You do not need a huge budget for the creature comforts, but it can really make a difference when moving into your new bedroom and give some of your trusty older furniture a new lease on life!

Inspiration

If you would like a little inspiration for creating the comforts that will make your master bedroom feel like it is truly your creation, please feel free to see a few of our client's stunning Queenslander homes here .