How to maximise your storage at home
The room: Alfresco terrace and shed
Cash spent: $34,232 (Budget: $20,000)
Score: 30/30 (first place)
“Look at the joinery,” Shaynna Blaze said. “It’s classy; it’s elegant; it’s expensive and it justifies the existence of this wine cellar. This is the perfect wine cellar.”
It was all about the wine cellar this week, as Robby and Mat unveiled their winning secret weapon underneath the alfresco area
This was the big week for best mates Robby and Mat, with the reveal of their underground wine cellar, which resulted in a perfect score from all three judges.
A big point of difference for the boys, the cellar was created with a formwork system made of prefabricated panels filled with concrete for a cost-effective solution.
The cellar included a rustic floor of caramel herringbone-style brick. A wallpaper feature wall with wallpaper designed by Robby added a warm and cosy feel to the room, which was also fitted out with a wine fridge and wall-to-ceiling wine storage. A hand-made timber table with bar stools down the centre provided seating.
“This is wild. Imagine sitting down here, with the table, having a drink, looking at all the beautiful wine …That is incredible,” said Marty, as he surveyed the space.
When it came to the alfresco area, the boys designed a timber deck, with a large dining setting and lounge space. While the deck size was reduced slightly to allow for a stairway down to their wine cellar, the three judges all agreed that it still allowed for a generous entertaining space.
The well-equipped shed had a workshop at one end (with a custom-built work bench from left-over timber) and a home gym at the other end.
“This is perfect,” said Shaynna about the shed. “We had a working shed for the tools and a working gym! The gym is everything. I want it.”
If you have a home gym, it’s important to get the flooring right – make sure that there is a soft landing material chosen and easy-to-wipe-down surfaces.
How to plan the perfect alfresco area
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.