MEDIA The Australian – Island Paradise Taking the nation’s top weekend result at auction was this John Lea designed luxury home on the Gold Coast, as reported in The Australian in Jonathan Chancellor’s column, Competiting Bids. Spanning an expansive 2024 square metre parcel oriented towards the northeast, with breathtaking vistas stretching across Budds Beach and the Surfers Paradise skyline, this property showcases the second residential design commissioned by these clients. “Downsizing couple Tony Bowden – the Gold Coast-based co-founder of home builder Villa World – and his wife Terry se ..read more

In recent years, youth crime has been a growing concern in many communities. This has lead homeowners to seek more robust security measures to protect their properties and loved ones. Fortunately, advancements in technology and security systems have made it easier than ever to secure your home effectively. In this blog, we’ll explore the latest home security options that can help you deter and detect youth crime. Smart Home Security Systems One of the most effective ways to protect your home is by investing in a smart security system. These systems typically include cameras, motion sensors, a ..read more

MEDIA Best of Houzz 2024 – Lea Design Awarded Best of Service Annual award highlights home renovation and design professionals with top ratings and most popular designs among the global Houzz community. Gold Coast, Australia, 14 February, 2024 – Lea Design Studio has won a “Best of Houzz” award for Customer Service, on Houzz®, the leading platform for home renovation and design, including the all-in-one software solution for industry professionals. The Gold Coast Architecture firm was chosen by the millions of homeowners that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 3 mil ..read more

Image by Rawpixel The Next Frontier: Evolving Australian Architectural Residential Styles, Materials, and Technologies in 2024 As we embark on a new year, the world of Australian residential architecture is witnessing a convergence of innovative styles, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge technologies. The homes of 2024 will not just be spaces to inhabit; they will be a testament to the evolving needs, values, and aspirations of the modern homeowner. Join us as we explore the exciting developments in architectural styles, materials, and home technologies that are set to define the Austral ..read more

How Palm Springs became synonymous with this innovative architectural style. In the post-World War II era, a housing revolution took place that would shape the global suburban landscape for decades to come. This began in Palm Springs, a small desert town in the Coachella Valley 2.5 hours drive east of LA. Situated on the valley floor above a vast reservoir of underground water, the town is a true oasis in the desert, deriving its name from the native palm trees that form a year-round lush green canopy over the settlement. Several Californian architects including William Krisel and Donald Wexle ..read more

Kinkabool & Paradise Towers with 60’s skyline – Photo Gold Coast Nostalgia The Gold Coast is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and vibrant urban culture. It’s a place that has seen tremendous growth over the years, and this transformation is best exemplified by the evolution of its early high-rise buildings during the 1960s and 1970s. These decades marked a significant turning point in the city’s history as it transitioned from a quiet seaside resort to a bustling metropolis. With over 30,000 new apartments and flats approved in these decades, mostly in Surfers Paradise ..read more

Introduction The Building Code of Australia, now referred to as the National Construction Code (NCC), plays a pivotal role in shaping the built environment in Australia. Updated every three years, the latest NCC-2022 brings forth significant changes. These directly influence the design, construction, and safety aspects of new residential projects across the country. In this blog, we delve into some of the key modifications introduced by NCC-2022 (which has only recently come into force). We look at the impact they will have on the design of new dwellings in Australia.   Image by rawpixel ..read more

MEDIA Custom Homes – Rural Dream Home This unique Tallebudgera Valley project features in the pages of Custom Homes magazine. Crafted by visionary architect John Lea, the article delves into the intricate design elements that brought to life the client’s cherished childhood dream residence. “Nestled within the picturesque Tallebudgera Valley, a childhood dream was magnificently brought to life in this impressive rural residence by Lea Design Studio. Creating a contemporary interpretation of a lodge that sits harmoniously within its bush setting, this impressive residence incorporates the ke ..read more

Two years ago, we commented on the potential impact the introduction of the Design & Building Practitioners Act (D&BP Act) on the property development industry. This legislation was a response to the Shergold and Wier report commissioned by the Building Minister’s forum. This group consisted of federal, state and territory ministers. The report highlighted deficiencies in compliance with building codes and poor construction practices primarily related to high rise towers. This followed the widely reported Grenfell & Lacrosse tower façade fires in London & Melbourne, and t ..read more

Two years ago, we commented (https://leadesign.com.au/architect/disaster-in-the-construction-industry/) on the potential impact the introduction of the Design & Building Practitioners Act (D&BP Act) governing Class 2 multi residential projects in NSW would have on the property development industry. This legislation was a response to the Shergold and Wier report commissioned by the Building Minister’s forum, a group consisting of federal, state and territory ministers. The report highlighted deficiencies in compliance with building codes and poor construction practices primarily relate ..read more