Project Introduction: How it all started
For Holly and Angie's latest renovation, Angie explains it all came about by chance. When searching for a new project on the Sunshine Coast, they researched a wide variety of suburbs – and even had a contract on a different home – when fate intervened and changed the plan.
"We ended up purchasing this current place in a suburb we hadn’t actually considered (long story). We are so glad we bought it though and it’s been such an incredible location." With a 12-month renovation timeline in mind, they quickly learned that timelines don’t always go to plan.
"Our timeframe for the renovation was 12 months – now wasn’t that an underestimate! We have been renovating it for 18 months and we are very close to being finished! Holly unfortunately hurt her back quite severely which put her out of action for 9 months, so we do contribute a bit of the delay to this health issue."
Despite the challenges, their renovation journey has been a rewarding one. Having already completed four different styles of renovations in Brisbane—including a basic cosmetic update, an extension, and even structurally raising and rebuilding a Queenslander cottage—they were well-prepared for the challenge.
Design Vision: A Luxe Coastal Queensland Retreat
Holly and Angie wanted to embrace a coastal-inspired aesthetic while maintaining a high-end, luxurious feel. Their goal was to create a space that was as beautiful as it was functional, with natural elements that invite a tactile experience.
"We wanted people to have a textural experience when they walk in the home, wanting to touch and feel all the materials incorporated. The bathroom is a perfect example of all these design elements in one space. We have used a warm timber grain cabinetry, added luxe gold pops with the tap-ware, micro-cemented the vanity top for that organic vibe, and have hints of real travertine stone along with handmade tiles - the space feels quite raw and creative but high end at the same time."
Why the Gordon Heated Towel Rail?
When designing their bathrooms, Holly came across the Gordon heated towel rail from Eskimo Heat on Instagram and was immediately drawn to its sleek and functional design.
"We saw the Gordon heated towel rail on Instagram and we were drawn to it because of the white slimline look and the fact you could fit multiple towels on it at the one time. We then looked on the Eskimo Heat website and found it heated quickly, used low power consumption, and could be mounted to many different wall surfaces – we were mounting it on a micro-cemented wall in the ensuite and a plastered wall in the main bathroom. It was perfect.”
Beyond aesthetics, performance was key.
"We are really happy with how it blends into the wall and holds the towels securely. It was also easy for our electrician to install and we just turn it on off at a light switch on entry and exit of the bathroom."
The Benefits of a Gordon Heated Towel Rail in Queensland’s Climate
In Queensland’s humid climate, drying towels can be a constant struggle, often leading to damp, musty-smelling fabric and excess moisture in the bathroom. With the humidity, towels can take longer to dry, resulting in more washing and bad odours in the bathroom.
Beyond keeping towels fresh, the Gordon heated towel warmer helps prevent moisture build-up in the bathroom, reducing the risk of mould and mildew. With its low power consumption, sleek design, and ability to combat Queensland’s humidity, the compact Gordon Towel Warmer is both a stylish and practical addition to any modern bathroom.
Advice for Home Renovators
Having tackled multiple renovations, Holly has learned a thing or two about what makes a project successful.
"Wow so much advice we’d love to give – we could talk for hours about what to do and what not do, but basically renovating can be a great way to personalise your home, increase its value, and make it more functional for your needs. Just remember that careful planning and realistic expectations are key to making your project a success.”
She also warns against over-capitalising and advises focusing on high-impact areas.
"You also don’t want to overcapitalise. Our best advice is, plan, be ready for surprises, have a contingency in the budget for blow outs (approximately 15%-20%), decide on priorities and focus on the areas that will have the most impact (like the kitchen, bathrooms, or facade). We also always steer clear of purchasing properties on main roads, and on steep blocks - as the saying goes, location, location, location!”
Follow Along for More Renovation Inspiration
If you want to see the final stages of this renovation and follow along for future projects, check out Holly and Angie's Instagram @Reno_Gals. You can also find more information on the Gordon Vertical Heated Towel Rail featured in this project here.
