social media, particularly Instagram, and arrive at the design table with an endless stream of reference images – many of them drawn from international climates, materials and building codes that do not necessarily translate well to the Sunshine Coast or broader Queensland environment. For Gold Leaf, that creates both opportunity and responsibility.The team frequently finds itself in the role of advisor, steering clients away from products that won’t perform in coastal conditions, or do not meet bushfire or durability requirements, while still delivering the look and feel they want. “Instagram is super influential,” Grabbe says. “But a lot of those designs are in completely different climates or regulatory environments. We can usually find an alternative product that delivers the same aesthetic and meets compliance and durability needs – but it takes more work upfront, and more planning.” Balancing sustainability and luxury is another ongoing challenge. Many clients want an environmentally conscious builder, yet the project brief involves knocking down an existing home to build new. Where possible, Gold Leaf encourages renovation over replacement as the most sustainable option, and incorporates environmentally minded options into new builds wherever practical. SUPPLIERS, SUBCONTRACTORS AND THE POWER OF LOYALTY The company’s reputation is anchored not only in its internal team but also in its long-term relationships 18 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 12
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