Australian home design trends explained with James Hardie
The room: Rumpus room
Cash spent: $32,412 (Budget: $10,000)
Score: 29.25/30 (first place)
“This is exactly the right layout for a media viewing room,” said Darren Palmer.
Han and Can scored the winning room this week, with an elevated, calming design that used acoustic elements to ensure a whisper-quiet experience.
Han and Can pulled off a winning rumpus room with a calming design they described as a “home entertainment oasis”. The girls continued with the curves they have created throughout their house, including three recessed arches in their room – the centre arch containing a television and entertainment unit, flanked by two arches with floating shelves.
Some of the strength of this room was in the details – and behind the scenes. Acoustic wood panelling on the ceiling was complemented by velvet wall panelling, combining to create a noise-proof haven. Perfect for a cinema/media room.
“Acoustically, this is awesome,” observed Darren Palmer.
A super soft wrap-around sofa provided generous seating, cleverly angled to offer guests the option of enjoying the view outside or the television screen. A thoughtful lighting plan included LED lighting around the coffered ceiling, central arch and the two bookcases. Two downlights added task lighting.
Marty Fox felt the room was very family-friendly and ideal for both kids and adults, depending on the eventual buyers. “This really hits every single person who will enjoy coming to stay at this house,” he said.
Think about the lighting before your room is built – a well-considered lighting plan can provide both ambient and task lighting through a combination of energy-efficient LED strip lighting and downlights.
The paint colours that Han and Can used in their rumpus room were ‘White Comfort’, ‘Cane Chair’ and ‘Love Note’ by British Paints.
How to install timber wall panels
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.