Mixed Cladding Design in St Kilda

“The builders can lift and fix the sheets quickly and easily, providing significant benefits labour-wise.”

The quarter acre dream is still within reach at the St Kilda subdivision in Cambridge. In this newly developed subdivision, an average section is 1,600 square metres, which is twice the size of today’s average suburban sections for sale in Hamilton and Cambridge.

The high spec two-story Wetlands Duplex showhome features Linea™ Weatherboard and Stria™ Cladding on the exterior, with Secura™ Interior Flooring on the upper floor. The materials were selected for their superior quality, providing an ‘up market and high end’ feel.

The requirement for architecturally designed homes that allow easy and comfortable modern day living on large sections – without breaking the bank – and without compromise. “We didn’t want to compromise on the claddings and fixtures,” says Aaron Guerin, Director of LAD Architecture. “Linea™ Weatherboard and Stria™ Cladding are showcase products and possess unique features that complement the cedar paneling also used on the home’s exterior.”

Linea™ Weatherboard was installed as the predominant cladding, with Stria™ Cladding used on the lower floor as a striking feature. The broad, clean lines of Stria™ Cladding create a bold and dynamic finish, making it ideal for this contemporary design home. The claddings are painted in a modern dark grey colour scheme.

Easy to install

In addition to design flexibility, Hardie™ claddings provide build benefits. The lightweight cement composite sheets are gun nailable and easy to work with. “The builders can lift and fix the sheets quickly and easily, providing significant benefits labour-wise,” explains Guerin.

During construction James Hardie reps were on hand to provide support to the build. Reps also provided installation training prior to works commencing, which Guerin says will help ensure the home meets the expectations of customers and Synergy Designer Homes own high standards.

The flooring for the upstairs master bedroom also provided building efficiencies. Secura™ Interior Flooring is an all in one product - it can be tiled directly without the need for underlay, saving further time and money on the build. The moisture resistant sealer is an easy way to protect against moisture damage to interior floors. Guerin says “The waterproofing element has provided us with security during the build and it provides long-term benefits in terms of its durability.”

Its durable construction gives a squeak-free, solid feel under carpet, tiles or vinyl. The acoustic properties of the flooring, coupled with its stability and rigidity, are ideal for this high spec home. “We pride ourselves on design, detail, and finish – and James Hardie’s products fit the brief well,” says Guerin.