Reno - Week 1

Because Monday was a public holiday, the official kick-off date for our long awaited renovation was last Tuesday, 11 June. Not much has happened during the first week - a temporary power pole was installed into the front yard and because space is a premium over at the West End Cottage, the pole had to be positioned right up against the only tree that is left on-site - a frangipani. The said tree had to lose a couple of it's lower branches to accommodate the pole, but I suppose they will grow back.

And speaking of trees, I've had loads of time to figure out what sort of feature tree to plant beside our back terrace.

There is a space next to the semi-circular masonry wall which forms part of the terrace and is a perfect spot for a specimen tree. I want something that provides some much needed shade during the height of Summer, but it has to be deciduous so that it also allows lots of light and sunshine during Winter and I thought that an advanced frangipani was a good option.

Today I received confirmation that an advanced tree (3.5m high with a canopy of around 4.5 metres) is available.

The variety is called "Lei Rainbow" and the flowers look just like this:

Magnificent would you agree?

Now you might think it a bit premature to be discussing landscaping, but the tree will need to be planted sooner rather than later. In fact while the footings and foundations are being dug, I will arrange for them to dig out a hole for the tree. The tree will need to be planted before the walls are erected - otherwise there will be no chance of a crane getting access to deliver and lower the tree into position. Plus doing it now will give the tree a good 6 months to establish prior to us moving in.

So what's next? The asbestos removal guys are due sometime next week to remove what we think is AC sheets that line the verandah ceilings, bathrooms and soffits at the back of the house. The builder is also doing a bit of demo work and then,

We're Raising the Queenslander...