Builder Spotlight | GJ Gardner Homes
Builder Spotlight: G.J. Gardner Homes Sunshine Coast South
With over 35 display homes in the Aura Display Village, we’re shining a light on the builders who make Aura's dream homes a reality! We recently caught up with Tony Quinn, Franchise Owner at G.J. Gardner Homes Sunshine Coast South, to discuss how their designs cater to the evolving needs of Australian families and the trends shaping the future of home building.
How do your home designs fit with the way that Australian families and residents want to live? Has this changed over the years?
At G.J. Gardner Homes, our designs are crafted with the evolving lifestyles and needs of Australian families in mind. Today’s families prioritise functionality, comfort, and sustainability and our homes reflect these values. Our designs incorporate open living spaces that encourage family interaction, versatile rooms that can adapt to different uses, and seamless indoor-outdoor living, which is ideal for enjoying the region’s beautiful climate.
Over the years, we've noticed a shift towards energy-efficient homes. Features like solar panels, rainwater tanks, and energy-efficient appliances are now in high demand. The rise of remote work has also increased requests for dedicated home offices and study areas. Our commitment to understanding and adapting to these changing trends ensures our homes meet the current needs of Australian families and anticipate future demands.
G.J. Gardner Homes bring modern open-plan living to life, with spaces designed for connection and seamless indoor-outliving
What is your top tip for prospective buyers to consider when building a new home?
My top tip is to prioritise careful planning and clear communication throughout the building process. Here are a few key considerations:
1. Define your needs and budget: Before starting the building process, clearly outline your needs and preferences, consider the size of your family, your lifestyle, and how you plan to use the space. Establishing a realistic budget early on will help guide your decisions.
2. Choose the right location: Consider factors such as proximity to schools, work, and amenities, as well as the overall lifestyle you envision. If you already live in a suburb you love, a knockdown-rebuild option could be ideal. At G.J. Gardner Homes, we can assist with the process, helping create your dream home without changing your neighbourhood.
3. Engage with your builder: Building a home is a collaborative process. Work closely with your builder to communicate your vision. At G.J. Gardner Homes, we pride ourselves on open lines of communication, ensuring our clients are informed and involved every step of the way.
4. Consider future needs: Think about your family’s future requirements like additional bedrooms, a home office, or outdoor living spaces. Planning for these now can save you time and money in the long run.
By taking these steps, buyers can create a well-thought-out home that truly meets their needs and enhances their lifestyle.
Embrace sustainable practices with a native, low-maintenance garden
What do you think are the main challenges faced by prospective buyers when planning to build a new home?
Managing a budget effectively can be tough, as many buyers underestimate total costs, including unexpected expenses. At G.J. Gardner Homes we offer a transparent, no-hidden-costs approach to help buyers plan accurately.
Choosing a home design that suits both present and future needs can also feel overwhelming. That’s why we work closely with buyers to shape homes around their lifestyle and preferences.
Navigating local regulations and permits can be complex and frustrating, leading to unexpected delays. We guide clients through these processes, empowering them to make informed decisions so they can feel at ease as they build their dream home.
What’s your favourite home design trend for 2024?
Sustainable and energy-efficient designs. More homeowners are prioritising sustainability, incorporating elements like solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, high-performance insulation, and sustainable materials that reduce environmental impact and offer long-term savings.
Do you implement any innovative or sustainable construction practices in your projects at Stockland Aura?
Yes, we do! Our sustainable practices include:
Energy-efficient building design: We optimise orientation, insulation, and window placement, using passive solar design principles to capitalise on natural light and ventilation.
Renewable energy integration: We incorporate solar panels and energy storage systems to make homes more energy-resilient and reduce dependency on the grid – a key feature for forward-thinking developments like Aura.
Water conservation: Our homes utilise rainwater harvesting systems, efficient plumbing, and low-water-use landscaping, aligning with Aura’s water conservation goals and commitment to sustainable living.
Smart home technology: We integrate smart home systems for lighting, climate control, and security, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort to meet the modern tech expectations of Aura residents.
Native landscaping: We use native plants that thrive in Aura’s climate, creating biodiverse and low-maintenance landscapes that support water conservation.
Do you have any other updates that you would like to share?
We have an exciting update to share! We’re building a new display home in Aura, which is set to open in 2025. This new display will showcase our innovative designs and features, providing prospective buyers with an excellent opportunity to see firsthand how we shape homes around Australian families.