Behind the Build with Chloe Cavanagh.

1. Tell us a little bit yourself and where you live.

With 15 years of experience in the education sector, I have always had a deep passion for design, particularly in home construction and renovation. Weekends were spent renovating a home on the Mornington Peninsula until the onset of COVID, which led me to make the permanent move.

Since then, I have dedicated myself fully to creating lifestyle homes, turning my passion into a full-time pursuit. Proceeds from these projects allows me to contribute to the affordable housing space.

1. What made you want to renovate a home?

Having a side passion for interior design! I renovated my first home and was as hands on as possible. I wanted to learn each trade, not to master it, but to understand costs and timeframes involved.

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. What type of home did you build – describe the style/design.

   This is my fourth build, designed for modern coastal living and entertaining. I envisioned a light, airy scheme, with an expansive single-level, open-plan layout at its heart. The kitchen, equipped with high-end appliances and ample storage, includes a luxurious butler’s pantry and a connected wine cellar.

    

   With a focus on family and tranquility, the dining and living areas are entertainment-ready, flowing effortlessly into an alfresco space with an integrated outdoor kitchen and a pool. Perfect for warm, social nights at home!

2. Tell us about the planning process about choosing your builder/designer and how you went about it?

3. Navigating council approvals can be challenging, so for this build, I took the path of least resistance by adhering strictly to code — saving both time and money. These requirements ultimately shaped the design. As with every project, I also considered resale value and broad market appeal.

2. What did you look for when finding land – location, size etc?

I always consider three key factors when planning a new lifestyle home.

1. 1. Location. Can I walk to the front bay or back ocean beach?
2. 2. Convenience. Am I less than 10 minutes from a coffee shop or general store?
3. 3. The surrounding nature and neighbourhood look and feel

4. Did you look through any display homes for inspiration?
5. The builder I chose for this project does have a display home, which provided a great sense of the layout and feel. However, with a larger site and additional requirements, I made adjustments to the plans to better suit my vision and needs.

5. Going into the renovation, where were you able to save money and which areas of the home did you want to splurge on?

We saved a significant amount by removing built-in tech from the home. These days, technology is personal and can easily be added later — whether it’s cameras, speakers, or smart devices, allowing for more flexibility and customisation.

What were the ‘must haves’ in your new home?

1. 1. A pool
2. 2. Butler’s Pantry with a second dishwasher
3. 3. Extra preparation space (you can close the door and deal with the mess another time)
4. 4. Master ensuite and walk-in robe that feels like you’re at a resort

When did you contact us during the building process and what benefits did dc+b provide?

I made contact early on with my local dollar curtains + blinds Mornington store, as the team was able to provide an estimated quote based on the floor plans. The team helped determine the best material to use for each space. For example, Shutters for wet areas.

5. How did you find the measure + install service?
6. The service was the quickest I’ve ever experienced. The team promptly provided a quote based on my estimated build plans, maintained communication throughout the construction process, and perfectly timed the final measurements. Impressively, the final quote matched the initial estimate, ensuring no surprises. The Installer was efficient, well prepared, and handled everything with great care. Everything was on time and the team was extremely knowledgeable about the product they were recommending and selling.

5. What lessons did you learn when renovating your own home?

Planning a new build is all about problem solving. While it can be stressful and frustrating when issues arise, the reality is that challenges are inevitable. The key is to keep solving them without letting the stress take over. There’s no way around it, just stay focused on finding solutions.

Was it beneficial to visit dc+b in-store?

It’s always important to visit the store to see materials and colours in person, as they can appear different online. The in-store team also provided valuable feedback and insights I hadn’t considered, which helped with my final choices.

5. Did you originally know what you were after in terms of window coverings or were you seeking our advice?

I knew what aesthetics I was wanting, but with so many options available today, from various Sheer fabrics to different Shutter materials, it was helpful to understand the key differences. For example, which Shutters are best suited for wet areas rather than living spaces, and when choosing Sheer Curtains, it’s important to consider linen versus linen-look fabrics, as genuine linen is more susceptible to sun exposure. The team helped me make the right decisions for the location of the Sheer Curtains and Shutters.

1. What’s your favourite room and why? 
2. An outdoor space that I can use all year round!

1. What are the 3 most important things that make your home feel like a home?
2. 1. A bedroom that you want to lay in all day on the weekends and an escape from the world to unwind
3. 2. An open-plan kitchen with room to entertain
4. 3. An outdoor space that can be used all year round

3. What is your most cherished possession?

I don’t usually have attachments to possessions, but I do love a great smelling room spray or candle that matches each home I complete.

4. What’s on your interiors wish list right now?
5. Bagged brick as a feature wall inside surrounded by timber. Timber, timber, and more timber! Walking into a home that smells like fresh timber is the best.

When it comes to designing a home, what does your design process look like?

When beginning a new design, I always begin with the location. Since most of my projects are coastal beachside homes, I focus on creating a design that seamlessly connects with nature. This means incorporating natural building materials and blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces to enhance the home’s flow and harmony with its surroundings.

1. 1. Are you a Curtains, Blinds, or Shutters person?

   It’s hard to beat classy Shutters, but linen Sheer Curtains or ‘linen-look’ give a beautiful feel to any space. Shutters suit any style of home – from modern, regional, and coastal.

Some people find it difficult to decide what to do with their windows. Any tips?

Shutters, Shutters, Shutters! When in doubt, go for Shutters (unless you have sliding doors). I’ve never seen Shutters look bad in any interior. Always consider first the purpose of that window. Am I hiding something outside? Is it the main outlook? Is it a big open space? Do I want people to see inside? Planning from a practical point of view first is probably always the best approach.

1. How do you find inspiration?
2. Everywhere, everyday! I spend so much time on REA and Domain. I like to travel to see alternate designs in other countries.