abode - issue 16

MARCH/APRIL 2015

The Practical Issue BUILDING FOUNDATIONS, DRIVEWAYS, DEMOLITION AND EARTHWORK

WARDROBE SYSTEMS GET IT RIGHT AND MAXIMISE PERSONAL STORAGE WITHIN THE HOME

complimentary copy

KEEP IT GREEN WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN IT COMES TO IRRIGATION Â

THE OUTSIDE IN HOW CLADDING IMPACTS THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR HOME

abodemagazine.co.nz

The Maverick Settee by Kovacs Photographed at Beauty at the Tannery; model dressed by Redhouse Boutique; The Tannery, 3 Garlands Road, Woolston

MAVERICK

GRACE

HUDSON

Franklin Chair, LaCrosse Stool, Amalfi Chaise Art0711D, Como Art0252, Frankie Chair, Grace Chair, , Millenium Side Tables, Carnivale Lamp, Amalfi Art0239D

editor’s note

I

have been working within the design and construction sector for nearly ten years and there is little doubt in my mind that it is my happy place. While I have little forays into different sectors, like health, sport and history, being able to step back into the world of architecture, construction and design, is like putting on your favourite jersey and snuggling up on the couch. I love it.

Two months too long to wait for your next fix of abode?

Find us online for weekly news and updates from the abode team

Photo: Emma Brittenden

4

Publisher LGP Consulting lisa@abodemagazine.co.nz 021 782 228

Editor Lucinda Diack lucinda@abodemagazine.co.nz 021 508 079

Art Director Sally Wallace sally@abodemagazine.co.nz

Advertising Julie Williams julie@abodemagazine.co.nz 027 269 0085

Many of you often ask us questions about some of the more technical aspects of the building world, so this issue we set about answering some of them with our dedication to the ‘practical.’ From what your responsibilities are as the homeowner (page 16), to foundations and earthworks (page 19), to irrigation (page 44), personal storage (page 32) and bathroom trends (page 34) and innovation (page 36), we hope this issue provides you with some much needed advice and information for the less glamorous side of building. While we all love the fabrics, paint colours and exciting array of new fittings and furnishings, it is these practical aspects which provide us with the shell in which we live and ensure we are living in safe, functional homes.

Also this issue we bring you the first of our new ‘Get The Look’ series, (page 14), in which we have collaborated with the team at Hubbers Furnishings and The Breeze radio station to bring you inspiration and information on different areas of the home. This issue we kick-start the series with flooring – so stay tuned for future issues as we dive into different areas of the home.

Make yourself a cup of tea, sit back, relax and enjoy our lastest issue.

Contributors

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Ann-Marie Appleton, Hildy Kovacs, John Chaplin, Kate McCaskill, Lesley Storm, Penny Oliver, Richard Gough, Sue White

Print Blueprint, Christchurch

facebook.com/ abodemagazineNZ

Lucinda Diack EDITOR lucinda@abodemagazine.co.nz

abode® is published bi-monthly and is a registered trademark. While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretations of the subject matter contained herein. The reader of this publication assumes all responsibility for the use of these materials and information. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional. abode asserts copyright on all material published within abode and none of it shall be reproduced, wholly or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. abode reserves the right to edit or abridge all letters or other material, whether solicited or otherwise, prior to publication. For all enquiries, please email lisa@abodemagazine.co.nz

Stay cool this summer and prepare for winter Try LG Heatpumps, the cooler, efficient, healthier alternative 20% OFF SELECTED PS HEATPUMoning enti Upon m ad this

Remote control of your heatpump

Call now 0800 542 477 or email ian@lgair.co.nz *For a limited time. Available on selected heatpumps from LG Air South Island. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Retail sales only.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

Air Conditioning Heat Pumps LG HRV Ventilation Solar

contents

FEATURES 14 stress-free beauty

The best in flooring and how to get the look in your home

16 the practical side

From foundations to driveways, we uncover the practical aspects of building

26 pretty in turquoise

this issue

Rebuilding with fun, light and practicality in mind

30 the perfect choice

Discover the latest in melamine

32 maximise your space

COLUMNS

Getting it right when it comes to personal storage in the home

08 trends update

34 new ideas 2015

What to expect when it comes to bathrooms in the year ahead

36 changing the way we shower

Gain an insight into new technology in the bathroom

38 agent profile

Delectable delights and must-haves for your interior

12 bold and beautiful

Why you should be utilising the bold and unique when it comes to furniture

22 exterior appeal

Meet a young auctioneer selling with passion

44 lush greenery

51

The importance of getting it right when it comes to the exterior of our homes

24 smarter solutions

The who, what, why and how of irrigation

12

Lightweight cladding materials are put under the spotlight

47 places we love

REGULARS

04 editor’s note

Visit an online store filled with passion and a homeware store bursting with individuality

48 food

55 shop window

56 directory

MARCH/APRIL 2015

The latest in treats and accessories for the kitchen and a delicious yet simple one-pot dish

51 colour palette 16

50 diy

A bedside lamp gets a makeover

52 news

The best of the best in accessories, daily reads and all things home

58 last word

The Practical Issue

Where to start when it comes to Autumnal shades and tones

Why affordable doesn’t have to mean ugly

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS, DRIVEWAYS, DEMOLITION AND EARTHWORK

WARDROBE SYSTEMS GET IT RIGHT AND MAXIMISE PERSONAL STORAGE WITHIN THE HOME

complimentary copy

KEEP IT GREEN WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN IT COMES TO IRRIGATION

THE OUTSIDE IN HOW CLADDING IMPACTS THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR HOME

abodemagazine.co.nz

ON THE COVER Rebuilding saw these homeowners embrace colour, light and fun in the kitchen. Design by Pieta Fletcher of Palazzo Kitchens & Appliances.

Photography by Kate McCaskill.

7

8

trends update

Showcasing some of NZ’s best designers, the team at Frobisher opens the door on the best of the best when it comes to homeware

inspiration

Setting The Mood Walls can calm, enliven and intrigue – the trick is all in how you dress them. Inspired by big cities and architectural forms the latest in wallpaper, Intenz, combines graphic prints with metallic lustre effects. With an extensive colour palette – ranging from bold to more subdued pastels, and a mix of differing patterns, the Intenz collection has something for everyone. Whether you want to open up a room with the illusion of movement, create a statement or simply complement an existing look – you set the mood. aspiringwalls.co.nz

MARCH/APRIL 2015

trends update

THIS STRIKING PENDANT WILL ADD A SENSE OF WOW FACTOR TO ANY SPACE

frobisher.co.nz

Blending The Seasons This terracotta pot is a great trans-seasonal piece. It’s the perfect ode to the summer but has a bit of warmth for the cooler months. Versatile in nature its metallic finish ensures it’s a stylish accessory that will glam up any space. maytime.co.nz

Sleeping Beauty Featuring a sophisticated, yet whimsical assortment of ranunculus, peonies, roses, sweet pea and mixed berries, this bouquet print is a contemporary take on a much loved vintage aesthetic. Exclusively hand-painted for Bianca Lorenne, it comes two colourways, Ivory and Duck Egg, ensuring it will be at home in any bedroom. biancalorenne.co.nz

Ceramic Art From renowned Kiwi artist Evie Kemp comes her debut ceramic collection with Studio Ceramics. Titled Weather Patterns, the range is a carefully considered and handcrafted selection of modern classics that combine the pure craftsmanship and provenance of Studio Ceramics with contemporary design. Launching with an initial set of four cups and two plates designs, this collaboration highlights the beauty of the Kerikeri white clay against traditional hand painting and gilding. wandaharland.co.nz

For design that works. www.ccarchitects.co.nz 1091 Ferry Road 03 384 9602

CHAPLIN CROOKS

architects MARCH/APRIL 2015

9

10

trends update

WORKING WITH ANY COLOUR SCHEME THIS FREE-STANDING WARDROBE IS A FANTASTIC MODERN TAKE ON AN ANTIQUE ARMOIRE

leforge.co.nz

Pack A Picnic Enjoy the crisp autumn air in style with these lavish Middle Eastern Picnic Rugs. Lined with tarpaulin and featuring traditional carpet designs in water-resistant polyester, you will be the talk of the picnic! Coupled with handles and an easy roll-up design, these 4 x 2m rugs ensure there is plenty of space for every member of the family. bibbyandbrady.co.nz

Sensory Treat

These George & Edi diffusers are the perfect balance of aesthetics and function. georgeandedi.com

Displayed Style Inspired by the iconic childhood game of battleships, The Bang Bang Pegboard from George & Willy is a modular shelving system that just makes sense.

Designed to store and display objects, tools, clothing and artefacts any way you choose, the movable dowel pegs provide a customisable, and design-focused, space for organisation. georgeandwilly.com MARCH/APRIL 2015

NEW STORE NOW OPEN HOMEBASE 199 Marshlands Road

Global Living is proud to announce the opening of our new store at Homebase Marshlands.

We specialise in quality furniture designed to suit today’s modern homes and have opened this store to serve the Northern part of Christchurch and North Canterbury.

Global Living is now the exclusive Christchurch stockist of Danske Møbler furniture which provides excellent quality furniture, view their ranges at Homebase. We are also excited about stocking a new range of lounge suites from Kovacs Design Furniture which will be on display at our Moorhouse Avenue store early April. Come visit us at either of our great locations, we would love to see you.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS HOMEBASE 199 Marshlands Road, Christchurch 100 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch Monday - Friday 9-5.30pm Saturday 10-5pm Phone: 0800 749 999 Web: global-living.co.nz

furniture

BLENDING

Bold & Beautiful Plain & Simple

Utilise the amazing array of what’s available and extend it into your furniture, Hildy Kovacs offers an insight

MARCH/APRIL 2015

bleed: 5 mm 210 x 297 mm

FROM TOP Statement pieces taken from the (starting at top) Mojo, DJ, Tango and Franklin collections, designed by Kovacs.

Or alternatively, perhaps it is as simple as a contrast piping, effortlessly accentuating the design features of the piece.

For the more adventurous of us mixmatching fabrics, colours or patterns, is about bringing a small (or large depending on your selected piece) dose of a very bright or heavily patterned fabric without overwhelming the space, or the piece of furniture itself.

We bring personality and depth into our homes through an ever-changing array of cushions, so why not make a statement and set the scene with something fabulous, unique and different, from the outset? kovacs.co.nz | 03 384 2999

Abode

W

hen it comes to selecting that perfect piece of furniture for the home, many of us find ourselves struck by an irrational fear of opting for something that is a bit different. Yet when it comes to accessories, wallpapers and even our clothing, more often than not we jump in headfirst when it comes to having something unique. So why should it be any different with our furniture?

Yes furniture is a bigger purchase and tends to be something that is around a lot longer than the latest fashion trends, but mixing it up doesn’t have to mean mucking it up. It is about being brave and making an informed decision that is guaranteed to bring an extra wow factor to your home.

By pairing a plain with pattern, a bright colour with a neutral, a textured fabric with a smooth, or even fabric with leather, you can bring a whole new design aesthetic to your space.

Mixing and matching doesn’t have to be about the blending of two extreme patterns or even two colours, it can be as simple as two different fabrics. An all-over cream couch might have a hard-wearing fabric on the seat and arms, while the back cushions are a soft luxurious fabric designed for comfort – two fabrics put in place to serve two purposes, yet the same colourway. A simple yet effective way to bring texture and function to your space.

New Zealand

12

Showrooms 621 Rosebank Road Avondale, Auckland ph: 09 820 5051 27 Dalziel Place Woolston, Christchurch ph: 03 379 4984 info.nz@blum.com

More information

Perfecting motion made in Austria The high-quality solutions from Austrian fittings manufacturer Blum can be enjoyed the entire lifetime of your kitchen and make many tasks easier.

Imagine being right in the middle of cooking and having the utensil or oil you require right at your fingertips and easily located in a matter of seconds.

Blum’s ergonomic and intelligent solutions make tasks like cooking a breeze.

www.blum.com/ideas

14

get the look

Stress-free

Beauty

Guided by the team at Hubbers, Sue White steps into a world of flooring

W

hen my daughter was a toddler I had just invested in new wool carpet, it was a major stress whenever her tiny hands were wrapped around a cup of juice, or when my friend was regaling an animated story whilst holding a glass of merlot. I would focus on the swirling contents of the vessel hoping there was no spill on my carpet! Thankfully now with new solution dyed nylon carpets that stress has gone, spills come out easily and unlike the earlier nylon carpets, they don’t flatten or matt.

I love the thicker plush, almost shag pile solution dyed nylons as I am all about creating a luxurious, soft aesthetic. My visitors can now sit on the floor and run their fingers through the pile -“yeah baby!”

Plus with their stain resistance and durability, it opens up colour choices to the lighter elegant ‘greige’ colours.

And when paired with contrasting dark furnishings creates a beautiful, chic modern look.

On the other end of the plush scale are hard floor laminates, durable and with the look of natural timber you no longer have to worry about heel dents!

And of course the spills wipe right up. Versatile and fabulous, it allows you to create a vast array of looks. From contemporary, to coastal, to shabby chic, country or even Scandinavian.

Once you have your flooring in place it is about adding personality with furnishings. Add shots of colour with cushions (or “couch parasites” as my hubby calls them). Or for those wanting a bit of depth why not try the latest in wallpapers which offer realistic imitations of textured surfaces like stone, pressed tin, wood or brick. hubbers.co.nz | 03 348 2954 MARCH/APRIL 2015

1

2

3

get the look

5

Expert Tips What you need to know, advice from the team at Hubbers You get what you pay for. Consider your needs and aesthetics and ensure you are investing in the right place.

Solution dyed nylons are dyed right through the yarn offering better fade resistance.

Laminate is a hard flooring material that is easy to maintain and scratch resistant. It is suitable for all areas except bathrooms and laundries.

Be wary of DIY laminate hardware products as while they may look the same initially, they don’t have the same water resistance and longevity as laminates from a specialist flooring company.

Dulux Narrow Neck

Dulux Huka Falls

4

ABOVE Ruby Bay Saville Feltex Carpet.

OPPOSITE Regal Oak Dover Engineered Timber from GHNZ Floors. 1. Hokkaido Tripod lamp from Le Forge. 2. Akoa from the Harlequin Leonida Collection.

3. Catharina from the Karana Luxury Wallpaper Collection. 4. Eglomise from the Harlequin Leonida Collection. 5.

Baskana Bliss Euro Cushions. All available from Hubbers.

Outside of her day-to-day role of keeping us entertained on The Breeze, radio presenter Sue White is as passionate about all things interior as well as being an enthusiastic DIY and home-handy woman. Listen to Sue from 10am Monday to Friday on The Breeze 94.5 FM for a chance to win with the Hubbers.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

15

16

building

THE

Practical SIDE Building is often focused on the fabulous end result, however it is the less glamorous side of building that takes up so much of our time, effort and money. Lucinda Diack takes us through the practical side of building

A

ny successful building project starts with the design and construction team tasked with translating the clients’ wish list, budget and timeframe, into a reality. The spaces we design, build and create, and the way in which they interact with each other and with the physicality and constraints of the site, form the backdrop upon which our lives are played out. So it is essential we get it right, from the outset.

Home design constitutes a myriad of important decisions, large and small,

MARCH/APRIL 2015

falling into three categories – external, internal, as a whole.

External – how is it going to look and function on the site?

Choice of quality, durable, sustainable materials for construction and cladding Relative taming of the elements ensuring the building is positioned for maximum sun, minimal wind, good management of rain, snow and possibly seaspray Utilisation of the available view

Internal – how is it going work for you as individuals and as a family?

The number, size, arrangement and interplay of the spaces.

The right balance of ‘public’ and ‘private’ spaces Indoor/outdoor flow As a whole – how is it going to perform as an entity?

Aesthetically Structurally Thermally Seismically

building

If you are managing the project, you have to keep a close eye on the quality of the work and pick up problems quickly. Even if you are not the project manager, it is your home, so it is important you are visiting the sight regularly to check on the quality and progress of what is being undertaken.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES As a homeowner there are a number of tasks that need to be completed during the build process. While your builder and/or designer will be on hand to assist and guide you through most of these, at the end of the day the responsibility falls to you! These include:

Obtaining a building consent for all building work that is not exempt, before work is commenced

Ensuring all building work undertaken, that is exempted from the need to obtain a building consent, complies with the building code

Where required, obtain resource consent and other authorisations under Bylaws before commencing any building work

Ensure the easements and covenants on the title are complied with

Ensure building compliance inspections, maintenance and reporting procedures (where applicable) are completed

Apply to Council for a Code Compliance Certificate upon completion of consented building work

IF YOU ARE MANAGING THE PROJECT, YOU HAVE TO KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON THE QUALITY OF THE WORK AND PICK UP PROBLEMS QUICKLY

MARCH/APRIL 2015

17

18

building

UNIVERSAL DESIGN IS ABOUT ADDING PERMANENT VALUE TO A BUILDING, AND DESIGNING FOR HUMAN DIVERSITY

UNIVERSAL DESIGN

FUTURE-PROOFING There are often many things on the ‘want’ list that don’t make it into the final product, inclusions which are often considered unnecessary when the budget is being finalised, but which a few years down the track you wish you had.

Inclusions like outdoor speakers, outdoor lighting, home automation, irrigation and so forth. While the cost to install and run a home automation system seems daunting at the time, the cost of having the cabling in place, to connect up to later on, isn’t. Ensure you are future-proofing your home by making the provision for it at a later date. This can also help with the resale value.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

For many the notion of designing with accessibility in mind conjures images of handrails, prominently placed ramps and other such unattractive elements, however this is not the case. “Universal Design is not about handicapped or specialised design,” shares Richard Duncan from the R.L Mace Universal Design Institute, “it is about adding permanent value to a building, and designing for human diversity. Even the most ordinary of lives are constantly changing and dynamic.” Such change and diversity will see 70% of us at one point in our lives experience a disability of some kind – be it a broken arm, an accident that leaves us in a wheelchair, the impacts of old age or just having our arms full with the washing, groceries and kids. And a home built or renovated with Universal Design aspects is about incorporating considerations as simple as having a covered entry level platform, ensuring your light switches and power points are easily reached, that your bathroom and kitchen feature lever handles for easy gripping, that your doors and hallways are wide enough to navigate through for those in a wheelchair, and that there is additional strengthening in your walls to accommodate handrails if needed in the future.

building

FOUNDATIONS With land in Christchurch broken into different technical categories, TC1, 2 and 3 there are various technologies, materials and products which offer solutions and peace of mind to homeowners, however it is essential you are working with someone who is equipped to be giving you advice. Make sure you ask enough questions of your project manager, insurer or builder to determine that an appropriately qualified person, normally a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng), or for TC3 land a CPEng geotechnical engineer, endorses the foundation solutions available to you.

“The purpose of the Technical Categories (TC1-3) is to allow the efficient matching of appropriate foundation solutions to the underlying ground conditions,” shares RM Solutions owner Richard Knight. “Each technical category indicates what type of foundations your land needs, or whether further investigation is needed to work

this out, so that damage to your home is less likely in any significant earthquakes in the future. And while TC1 and 2 land is generally able to move forward with the standard, pre-quake regulations for foundations, there is no one-size-fits-all approach for TC3. Across the city we are seeing a variety of foundation solutions, which include deep piles and site ground improvements, each of which have been designed to reduce seismic impact on our homes; effectively changing the way our houses move in earthquakes and combating liquefaction from tearing, or damaging, the base of our homes.”

Each type of foundation has different capabilities to accommodate various levels of vertical settlement and lateral spreading, and each places different constraints on the type of dwelling that the foundation can support.

Deep pile foundations - Deep pile foundations involve drilling or driving piles (timber, concrete or steel) into the ground to a suitable bearing layer.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

19

20

building

Site ground improvements - Site ground improvements aim to strengthen the land and create a better building platform. A variety of methods can be used. Examples include, compacting the land beneath the building platform to make it denser and stabilising the land by adding cement. In most cases the existing house will have to be demolished or temporarily removed to allow ground strengthening work to take place. Once the land is strengthened, standard TC2 foundations can be used.

When it comes to having your foundations crafted, like the original discussions around which foundation is right for your property, it is essential you are engaging the experts. RM Solutions, guarantee their clients a job done properly. “Having worked in construction both locally and internationally we know how important it is to get it right, from the ground up,” shares Richard. “And we pride ourselves on our name and stand behind our reputation on every job. Being able to

MARCH/APRIL 2015

work with our homeowners from their earthworks, through their foundation needs and then even through the construction of their new home ensures we are on hand to assist and guide throughout the entire process.”

DEMOLITION & EARTHWORK Before construction can begin on your new home however, you often need to clear your site of unwanted materials, trees, brush, dirt and debris with every consideration for the safety and welfare of the workers, neighbours and environment. “Demolition and earthworks isn’t just about bulldozing down an existing dwelling,” shares Richard, “It is about a unique combination of equipment and manpower designed to deconstruct the home with as little impact to the site and surroundings as possible. Once the dwelling has been cleared, we are then able to work with homeowners to prepare the land. Be this through the levelling of the section, or working around existing landscaping to enhance what is there.”

DEMOLITION IS A UNIQUE COMBINATION OF EQUIPMENT AND MANPOWER DESIGNED TO DECONSTRUCT THE HOME WITH AS LITTLE IMPACT TO THE SITE AND SURROUNDINGS AS POSSIBLE

building

DRIVEWAYS One of the most essential components in any completed home project is the driveway, and it is often one, which is neglected or forgotten about until something goes wrong. Having started out in driveways before growing the business to include earthworks, foundations and new builds, RM Solutions are leading the way when it comes to building driveways in Canterbury. “Many people underestimate the driveway,” shares Richard, “but if done correctly, it can be the envy of the street, and no longer does it just have to be a simple concrete pad.”

“We work a lot with a product called Cover-Crete, while is essentially a spray on resin that allows you to tape out, or stencil on, any pattern you like,” continues Richard. “It allows you to transform your plain concrete driveway into something a bit different and special.”

The stamped overlay solution achieves an elegant finish that is strong enough to handle your daily driveway traffic. “It has a number of benefits,” continues Richard, “as it allows you to reseal without having to deal with heavy equipment tearing up your section, and ensures you can drive on your driveway within days not weeks, and of course brings an unrivalled aesthetic to your drive – all without compromising on strength and durability.” rmsolutions.co.nz | 03 421 2965

• Driveways - decorative concrete, asphalt, natural paving, cover-crete • Foundations - 3604 Foundations and solutions for all land types • Piles - supply and installation • Demolition and Land Clearing • Retaining Walls • Project Management - full house rebuilds from design to demolition through to completion

Phone: 03 4212965 | Email: info@rmsolutions.co.nz | www.rmsolutions.co.nz MARCH/APRIL 2015

21

cladding

Exterior appeal Richard Gough from Future-Proof Building guides us through the importance of exterior cladding

T

he exterior cladding of your home is potentially the biggest visual element of your property. It sets the scene from the outset about what is hidden beneath, and tells the story of your home from the street-scape. While it is an envelope, or barrier of protection, from the natural elements, it is often aesthetics that is the fundamental driver when it comes to selecting your exterior cladding material. But what else do you need to be aware of?

LIFECYCLE – this is about the maintenance your home will require to keep it not only looking good, but performing in the manner it should.

While homes with a brick exterior have little to no ongoing maintenance, homes clad in weatherboard require regular paint and repair.

R-VALUE – this is based around density and directly relates to how your home performs in terms of ventilation, noise, heat and so forth. It is important to understand what unique properties your cladding brings to the home. While they all protect you from the elements, some materials will have better protection from noise, while others boast greater thermal properties.

TYPE – following the earthquakes there has been a lot of discussion around lightweight construction materials, and when it comes to cladding we can break it into three types, light (for example, timber, James Hardie Linea, Rockcote Graphex Insulated Facade System), medium (Rockcote Integra lightweight concrete), and heavy (brick). All of which bring unique properties and aesthetics to a home. It is important to note however that advances in technology and building methods have ensured our heavier cladding materials such as stone and brick are now designed to perform better, and safer, in seismic movement.

With the cost to build, and even buy, constantly on the increase the quarteracre Kiwi dream is no longer, and like many other decisions in the build process, choosing your cladding material is about being conscious of what you can afford and capitalising on this. A combination of cladding materials is often used to highlight the architectural elements of home’s design, and in Australia there is a growing trend to use a combination of cladding materials to increase the aesthetic appeal of a home from the street; streetfront plaster, with the rest of the home clad in brick. Perhaps this is one way we can combat the cost of building and start to see our homes embrace a more varied visual appeal from the street. fpb.co.nz | 09 523 1438 MARCH/APRIL 2015

23

24

cladding cladding

Smarter

SOLUTIONS

CM

MY

CY

O

MARCH/APRIL 2015

M

Y

We take a look at how Niagara Timber are helping Cantabrians build with style and function in mind ur cladding choice is the biggest visual statement we can make and finding the perfect product can be a difficult one. It needs to be functional, practical, suitable to the surrounding environment, offer thermal and acoustic benefits, offer a level of protection from natural disaster and of course look good. Not always an easy feat.

For Niagara Timber, their Envira timber weatherboards’ are all that. “Today’s timber weatherboards will be tomorrow’s heritage,” shares Jamie Barton, Niagara’s Group Sales and Marketing Manager. “Well-maintained weatherboards will last for decades, and as they boast a high impact resistance, they are more likely to survive external shocks. And when you have timber weatherboards on a timber-framed construction you have a light but strong home that will perform well in seismic events.”

Envira is a complete system, saving homebuilders time and money. “With boxed corners, pre-cut scribers, sills and facing boards all available as part of the Envira Cladding System, builders love using Envira, and homeowners love the fact that building costs are lowered due to decreased time on the work site,” continues Jamie. “When compared to installing similar products, they can be up to 10% cheaper per square metre.

The shadow lines of bevel back, shiplap, vertical and rusticated profiles offer numerous design options for both traditional and modern home designs, however it is the construction of timber which sees them being turned to time and time again.

“The best modern weatherboards are finger jointed,” continues Jamie. “Finger jointing is the process of removing all knots, defects, and imperfections from a piece of timber – then

C

CMY

K

Envira Timber Weatherboard

gluing it back together with a finger like joint. Modern finger jointed weatherboards such as Envira are actually stronger than standard timber weatherboards as the weak points such as knots and defects have been removed.

Timber won’t crack or crumble like concrete and brick may, and because it has the ability and flexibility to move, timber will often fare better than its more rigid contemporaries in seismic movement.

For the discerning homebuilder who wants to ensure they are building a smarter, healthier and safer home, working with a cladding material focused on providing function and aesthetics is the right place to start. niagara.net.nz | 0800 FOR TIMBER (0800 36 78 46)

26

kitchens

Pretty in

Photography: Kate McCaskill

Tu rquoise

MARCH/APRIL 2015

kitchens

This new kitchen was all about bringing a light, bright and fun central space to a family home

F

or homeowners Mark and Pip Tyrrell, rebuilding their home following the Canterbury quakes has resulted in a complete transformation of what once was, having gone from living in an Art Deco abode to a modern, contemporary home. “It has taken some time getting used to it,” shares Mark with a smile. And especially so, when it comes to the hub of the home, the kitchen.

Found at the heart of the central open plan living area the kitchen offers a splash of colour to an otherwise calm and neutral space. Standing in the kitchen, large bi-fold doors to the left connect the living and kitchen with the formal lounge and outdoors; ensuring entertaining and alfresco dining are seamless, effortless affairs. While to the right, large picture windows frame the lush garden, found down the side of the house, flooding the kitchen and living room with natural light.

“Not only do all of the spaces connect and interact with one another,” shares Mark, “but from the kitchen you get amazing views out to the garden, and right throughout the day the kitchen is a warm, sunny place to be.”

Working within the realm of joinery, shop fit-outs and manufacturing, Mark was no stranger to the challenges of kitchens and turned to Palazzo Kitchen & Appliances to translate their dream into a reality. “Their showroom was wonderful and we really liked their ability to be flexible,” shares Mark. “And then once we met Pieta everything just clicked!”

Creating a light, bright and fun central space to their home was a key factor in the design of their new kitchen, and one, which has been, achieved tenfold. “We wanted something that was functional, modern and a bit fun. By being able to integrate different textures and fixtures into the space, along with a pop of colour in the splashback, Palazzo really helped us to achieve something with wow factor.”

The splashback is an ARChitecural Invibe Panel from James Hardie Building Products in colour Turquoise, and sets the tone for the rest of fittings and furnishings in the open-plan space.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

27

28

kitchens

Q&A

ith Pieta Fletcher, Kitchen Designer, w Palazzo Kitchens & Appliances

Q

What was the design brief for this kitchen?

Mark and Pip wanted a modern kitchen that is practical, with clean lines and some display areas. They liked one of the kitchen displays in our showroom, which was in ‘Vetra’ white glass and ‘Cottage’ Virginia Oak, and also had an asymmetrical style, so we started with a similar look. It was also important to them that seating was available around the island bench.

Q

How has this brief been achieved?

The kitchen is in ‘Vetra’ white glass with inbuilt handles in brushed stainless steel to give a streamlined look,

along with integrated appliances. We designed in some Virginia Oak fronts for wall units, tall units and panels, which frame the white glass units. Units on the wall include lighting below to highlight the splashback colour, while open units above allow for display areas for beautiful things. The island has some seating on the back and side, as well as storage on the end, which balances the fridge on the other side.

Q

What makes this kitchen stand out from the crowd?

The two-tone of the joinery along with the homeowners’ own spot of colour with the splashback, light fittings and accessories make this without a doubt a stunning kitchen!

Q

Were there any challenges that had to be overcome in the design and build of this kitchen?

The house design had some pipes that needed to be hidden in the kitchen, so I included a panel next to the double door fridge-freezer that they sit behind, and can be accessed if needed. This also allowed the fridge doors enough room to fully open to get the vegetable bins out.

Q

Tell us about the use of the blonde wood cabinetry.

The light timbers are very popular in Europe at the moment, and when mixing timbers in a room, you need to ensure they are either contrasting, or colour matched well while being mixed with another colour to break it up a bit.

The white glass with its reflective surface breaks up the timber really well.

Q

Lighting plays a big part in any kitchen and in this design there appears to be the perfect balance of ambient and practical - can you expand on this for us?

Two point lights were added under the wall units either side of the rangehood, which provides illumination on the back-

MARCH/APRIL 2015

kitchens

bench work area but also looks great! We also added a strip light under the breakfast bar overhang to add some interest to the white back panel. The strip lights are a series of tiny points of light so the effect is really interesting.

Natural lighting is a big consideration when planning a kitchen as it affects both the design and the colour choices. The skylight over the kitchen makes it really light and bright, and Mark and Pip have added pendants over the island which

are a great feature but also really practical for night lighting.

Q

Do you have any advice for integrating kitchens into an open plan design?

For open plan the appliances you choose are very important. Open plan means everything can be heard in the living areas, so it is important you get good quality appliances with low decibel ratings. Especially with rangehoods and dishwashers. In this kitchen we opted for

an Award inbuilt rangehood from the silent series for its low noise level.

Open plan does tend to make your kitchen the highlight of the home so it needs to look great and work well with the home’s interior. I would recommend getting advice from your designer on colours, and bring samples (if possible) into our showroom to compare with our colour samples. You also want to ensure that you have incorporated seating into your design for everyday living and/or entertaining. palazzokitchens.co.nz | 0800 725 2996

MARCH/APRIL 2015

29

30

surfaces

The

Perfect Choice

Versatile, functional and beautiful, Bestwood introduce three new Oak colours to their Melamine range

Coastal Elm

MARCH/APRIL 2015

surfaces

Q

Are we seeing any trends in melamines at the moment?

We are definitely seeing an expansion in the way Bestwood Melamine panels are being used. Going beyond the kitchen and bathroom and venturing into office and home furniture, feature walls and more. This was particularly evident in how our product was used on the television show, The Block, where it was used in walk-in wardrobes and spacious hall cupboards.

The Melamine Collection designs we are producing now are so realistic and detailed, it makes them a perfect alternative to solid wood or veneer furniture pieces. Not to mention that Bestwood Melamine products are Environmentally Choice certified which is sure to please our ever growing following of environmentally conscious consumers. bestwood.co.nz | 0800 866 678

Southern Oak

Milford Oak

Routeburn Oak

Treble Beech

Coronet Beech

Coastal Elm

Dusky Elm

Tasman Elm

Fiordland Elm

Milford Oak

Q

What is melamine and where can I use it?

Melamine is a pre-finished panel that requires no additional surface finishing. Our melamine products are suitable for kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, wardrobes, shelving, furniture and so much more. As the panels are available in a variety of thicknesses on a number of substrates the options are endless.

Q

Why would I choose to use melamine over an alternate surface material?

Its cost effective nature and easy to maintain properties are what see melamine selected time and time again. There are also a large variety of colours, patterns and finish options available, giving you the freedom to create your own design solutions.

Q

How does the finish of melamine impact the final look?

There are six unique finishes available across the Bestwood Melamine range, from a soft matte, to a glossy and reflective look or a textured effect designed to highlight the natural wood grain characteristics of the surface finish.

Depending on where and how you are wanting to use the material you are able to select a finish to suit.

Q

Tell us about your new colour palette, Terrain.

The Terrain Collection now includes nine wood grain colours and designs and is an evolution of our Wilderness Series. This range is inspired by New Zealand’s landscape; nature presents us with many unique palettes and nowhere is this more evident than in our own backyard.

We have played on this idea for dĂŠcors that vary and change like our landscapes: rugged and rough to tranquil and mild. The three new Oaks are the latest addition to this range, Southern Oak, Milford Oak and Routeburn Oak. These new colours are vibrantly rich and gracefully warm. They have a distinct textural oak grain that creates a rustic effect.

Dusky Elm MARCH/APRIL 2015

31

32

wardrobes

MAXIMISE

YOUR SPACE

We talk to Patrick Quinlivan of Simply Wardrobes about getting it right when it comes to personal storage in the home

Q

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

Experience, experience and more experience. We have developed a systems approach to wardrobe design and manufacture, which means we can turn around delivery for urgent orders within two days, and have a top quality product all at a price no other company can match.

We may not provide wardrobes in all the colours of the rainbow, but we know what colours and board styles will work with home design, now and in the future.

Q

What should I never compromise on when it comes to wardrobes in the home?

Space! There is nothing worse than trying to edge your way into your wardrobe space and not being able to see your clothes properly. It is a good idea to come and see us early in your build or

MARCH/APRIL 2015

renovation, particularly because at the end of the build, budgets are tight and it is often the wardrobe which is compromised, so if you are able to come in and see us in the early stages, we can quote and advise on layout, ensuring the cost of your wardrobes are factored into your budget from the outset.

Q

Are we still seeing free-standing wardrobes incorporated in our homes or are they all built in?

We still sell plenty of free-standing Wardrobes, often for older homes that don’t have any wardrobes, or for the sleep out. We also see this range as a popular storage solution for the garage.

Our range of Free Standing Wardrobes are very robust and the customer is able to organise the space inside to cover their storage needs.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The Cabinet System can be custom designed to suit any space and need. The Wall System is ideal for those with a walk through robe. The popular Pole System allows you to have shelving up to three metres high. Accessories like tie and jewellery drawers and shoe racks can be incorporated into any wardrobe design.

wardrobes

Q

You have a number of wardrobe ranges, are you able to tell us about these?

The most popular range is the I-Robe System, which is both budget and space friendly. Next is the Cabinet System, which uses a variety of different modules to best suit our customers’ needs.

Another very popular system is the Pole System which is a particularly versatile system, as it is fully adjustable and can reach three metres in height.

We also manufacture a range of specialised Walk-in Robes on indent.

Q

Are your wardrobe units only for bedrooms?

Not at all. As I mentioned, we often sell our Free Standing wardrobes for garage fitouts and sleepouts, but we also see them being utilised in a living area or study, we just fit them out with shelving and drawers instead of hanging bars.

tie and trouser racks fitted, which can condense these items down. Another option is to install the Pole range, which enables you to have shelving three metres high.

Q

Are there any trends in wardrobes at the moment?

Subtle wood grains are the biggest trend at the moment, as is the thickness of the board. People want their wardrobes to be robust and look part of the house design, which sees us use a 25mm thick board. When it comes to accessories we are seeing a lot of pullout mirrors, valet pins, tie and jewellery drawers, drawer lights, trouser racks and incorporated ironing boards. simplywardrobes.co.nz | 03 379 0292

Q

Do you offer a custom-design/ made service?

While we don’t custom-make our wardrobes, we do custom design and fit them into a space. Our design team work closely with the customer to make sure that we are providing exactly what they are after. This is a completely free service, which ensures once the wardrobe has been fitted, it will look as though it has been custom made.

Q

How can you maximise space in the wardrobe?

A good way of maximising space in a wardrobe is to introduce double hanging, this will condense the amount of hanging you have. The other techniques are to put shoe racks up the wall and have

MARCH/APRIL 2015

33

34

bathrooms

new ideas Lesley Storm from Edward Gibbon talks to Paul Burrows of Athena Bathrooms about the how, what and why for 2015

Athena Contro Bath

Q

Where does your inspiration come from when creating a new range?

We get our inspiration in a number of different ways. Firstly we listen carefully to our customer feedback and then consider trends that are being played out internationally, as well as locally. Our focus from an international perspective is more European based, as Kiwis tend to follow these trends more closely than those coming out of America. We also look internally at our product ranges to MARCH/APRIL 2015

see which products are popular and why, and what we can improve or do better.

Q

What is the process of designing bathroomware?

If we take acrylic for instance, which is a product we use predominantly in the manufacture of our showers and baths, we start with simple 2D line drawings and create prototype models using traditional handcrafted techniques.

It just has to look and feel right, as there is no substitute to seeing and touching a full-sized model of the real thing. This

process will often take five to ten iterations until we have something we are happy with, and with some components we can still end up with multiple prototypes to look at and work with.

Following feedback on the prototypes, a final decision is made and a full working unit manufactured. The full working unit is then tested in a bathroom test facility in our factory where tests, such as flow rates of water through the shower waste, are tested to ensure that when the shower is in use the water runs away effectively and does not

bathrooms

Soul Shower, Cassini Bath and Lazaro Vanity pool. This is just one of a number of tests that are carried out before we commit to finalising the design and going into full production. This whole process can take up to 18 months, from concept to the first shower coming off the production line.

Q

What can we expect from the new Athena range?

It is all about being striking, bold and trendy, with new designs and colours.

An exciting addition to the range is the all new Soul shower which displays the latest in pivoting door design with a semi-frameless feel which creates a look of elegant simplicity. This stunning new shower also features an ultra modern square-look shower tray that has been designed to deliver a streamlined look and feel.

Q

How will it impact bathrooms in 2015?

Modern elegant simplicity, sums up the impact this range will have in 2015, delivering a stunning range of products that offer choice and colour with clean simple lines that are versatile enough to meet both the modern contemporary bathroom designs, as well as the more classic styles which are needed to meet the demands of todays diverse bathroom market.

For instance, the new Contro Bath offers a free-standing look with modern clean crisp lines and the practicality of being mounted back to the wall. This allows the use of conventional costeffective tapware to be used either in the style of benchtop mounted taps or wall faucet. Plus, it has the added peace of mind of a hidden, tiled up-stand which

Soul waste lid

Moorland Oak

Mali

achieves a seamless join between tile and bath avoiding those unsightly strips of silicon along the back of the bath and providing a leakproof seal against the wall.

Q

What sets this new range apart from others?

Our own high expectations for its success! We believe it will be as phenomenally successful as our Create vanity range has been over the past two years. The range has been simplified, but not at the expense of offering the customer less choice. An example of this is the new range of Soul showers which includes a unique 1200 x 900mm configuration, with the door position not only available on the 1200 side, but now also on the 900 side.

Lazaro Alumino 1200 Wall Mali Composite Bench with Valdama Basin

Q

What colours are we seeing emerge throughout this new collection?

Dark colours and textures are the theme for 2015 which sees us introduce Moorland Oak and Mali. White is still the dominant colour, while for the more daring, dark colours such as Charred Oak, Piper and Exochique Black are very popular; for those that are less daring but still want bring some depth and interest to their bathrooms, colours such as Sabine and White Ash are proving to be very palatable. edwardgibbon.co.nz | athena.co.nz 03 366 7137 MARCH/APRIL 2015

35

36

bathroom technology

Changing the way we

Shower

Ben Bloy of Chesters Plumbing & Bathroom Centre guides us through the latest in waterproof technology

MARCH/APRIL 2015

bathroom technology

Q

What should I look for in a shower?

When it comes to showers the most important things to look for are:

whether it has a recognised Leakproof warranty

that the base has high base-to-wall up-stands

that the shower base is made from a ‘solid base’ construction

and finally that the glass is 10mm toughened safety glass with a branded ASNZS2208 certification.

Q

You have a couple of different frameless glass systems, tell us a bit about each one.

We have three frameless systems each designed to meet different customer needs. The Crest Sereno Frameless is a frameless glass door and screen set only, so has no base, allowing this system to be installed on any sort of existing base, be it tiles, vinyl or so forth. The Crest Ava Frameless systems expands on this further as it is a complete kit with a solid resin tile over waterproof base and waste. Finally there is the Crest Lacuna Stone system which is a frameless glass shower kit with a solid Lacuna Stone pre-finished base, meaning there is no tiling needed.

We also do an economy range of showers, the Zenith collection, which offers consumers a low cost alternative.

Q

What makes the Lacuna Stone range stand out?

With their pre-finished base there is nothing else in the NZ market quite like it. With a solid stone look shower base as well as a twenty-five year leakproof warranty, it offers the discerning consumer a timeless and unique aesthetic.

Q

How did this range come about?

After years of design, testing and patents, the Lacuna Stone range was created to fulfil a market that is demanding a ‘good, strong, solid’ and guaranteed waterproof pre-finished base.

If someone wanted something different apart from a tiled shower, there was really only fibreglass, plastic or acrylic as an alternative. Now you can have the beauty of a stone-like appearance (in either Blank Sand or White Haze) and a strong sturdy base.

Q

Is Crest just about showers?

We essentially specialise in everything to do with showers, which includes shower glass, components, shower bases, wet room

bases and wall linings, under tile linings, waste kits, channel drains, body wash and shampoo dispensers, glass shower shelves, shower footrests, wall and shampoo niches, and shower glass squeegees!

Q

You also offer bath screens – tell us about these.

Used if you have a ‘shower over bath’, our most popular bath screens are the Crest Alto range. These are claimed as the sturdiest bathscreen available in New Zealand, as they feature a strong, 10mm thick frameless glass screen, which has been designed in over 10 different size options, to suit all types of baths in the market today.

Q

Do you custom-make your showers to fit or do you have standard sizing available?

Crest have a selection of over 30 different standard sizes, and within that size range, we also have over ten different options covering a variety of in waste options, sliding doors, hinged doors, no door walk-in and also no glass walk-in versions. Custom sizes and shapes are no problem as we are able to make any size, shape or design a shower to suit a clients unique bathroom needs.

Q

When during my bathroom renovation or build should I be thinking about my shower?

The best time to choose a shower is definitely during the framing stage, however, it is also very important to discuss details such as level entry, waste positions and styles, for example channel waste or centre waste, early on in the design process. chesters.co.nz | crestshowers.co.nz 03 335 0053 | 0800 404042

Technology behind the scene We take a look at the design elements behind the Crest Lacuna Stone basin system.

Clean finish, easy clean Glass panes slide into the fine overhanging lip eliminating opportunities for water to pool and grime to collect.

More heads, more water, no problem The gentle gradient smoothly disperses running water; even the torrent of water produced with multiple shower heads. Additional drainage outlets are easily drilled into the waste trough which is concealed by an attractive stainless steel cover.

Behind the scenes With correct installation, wall board, waterproofing and your choice of shower lining, materials connect, with no visible silicon, to completely eliminate water problems.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

37

38

property

And it’s Sold!

We talk to Mike Pero Real Estate’s Conor Patton about what it means to be an auctioneer Why auctioneering?

I suppose the short answer is because I love it. Selling a home is often a lifechanging situation for people, and all that emotion and energy that’s been building up gets compressed into a five minute window of action. It is exciting to be a part of that.

What makes a good auctioneer?

A good auctioneer is someone who can ultimately bring the parties together to complete the deal. Unashamedly, an auctioneer’s role is to get the best possible result for the owner but there are a number of ways you can get there.

First and foremost it obviously needs to be above board i.e. that we are acting inside our industry best practice but in essence it’s about acting with integrity so that all parties are happy with the outcome. You need to be able to form solid relationships with buyers and sellers in relatively short periods of time, which requires good people skills but also not shying away from having the tough conversations if necessary.

In terms of the auction ‘call’ itself, a good auctioneer can relax the crowd.

A lot of people come to auctions as newbies and so it’s important to use simple language and humanise the auction jargon so that the bidders feel confident to participate.

Finally a good auctioneer engages the crowd and uses whatever means necessary; humour, self-deprecation, to create an atmosphere that generates momentum. That is the auctioneer’s greatest ally.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

Why would I auction my property?

When people ask me that, without trying to be cheeky I usually reply by asking ‘why wouldn’t you?’ To be fair I’m probably a bit biased but I believe that in the vast majority of cases, it is the best choice. I would say most owners want to sell their home, which is normally their greatest asset, for the highest possible price, in a reasonable amount of time.

And an auction provides the best chance of achieving both of those parameters. It’s a cash and unconditional contract on the owners’ terms meaning that all the due diligence is done by the buyers before auction day so that when the hammer comes down, it is a certain sale. By auctioning your property and marketing it without a price, you remove the risk of under-selling it but also of over-pricing and effectively scaring off potential buyers before they have even seen the home. You then bring together all the interested parties and let them fight it out for the right to own your property rather than engage in one-on-one negotiations, which usually results in you being ground down on your expected price.

Before owners make the decision to sell, an agent will provide a ‘comparative market analysis’ of recent sales that are similar to your own home to give you an expected selling range. However the truth is, even if you have been in the business 100 years it’s impossible to know exactly what the ‘right buyer’ will pay.

The auction environment is the best I know to unearth those buyers and when they see the opportunity disappearing before their eyes, that’s when we set new records and get owners a price they never dreamed possible.

property

How do I set my reserve?

You will set your reserve in conjunction with your agent and the auctioneer in the last few days leading up to your scheduled auction day. At that time, the agent will give an overview of the campaign including the total number of groups through, and the potentially interested parties for the auction. The auctioneer will then go through all the potential scenarios for the day.

It is important to discuss all possibilities, however unlikely, because it’s pretty common for the owners to be a little nervous on auction day and so you only ever want good surprises! The reserve price that you set is an important figure, and should be based off the feedback that the buyers, who are active in the market place and have inspected your home, will have given to your agent.

However having said that, don’t tie yourselves in knots trying to come up with the perfect figure, because it isn’t necessarily the last decision you’ll make.

Unlike other auctions you might have seen, when it comes to real estate if it doesn’t hit the reserve price it isn’t the end of the auction. The auctioneer can commence a dialogue with the highest bidder and a deal can still be made. As I said earlier, the agent and auctioneer are both working for the seller to get them the best price, however if, after that discussion, the highest offer is still under the reserve price which you set, you can amend that, and sell (still under auction conditions, i.e. still cash and unconditional) for the figure which the auctioneer has brought to you.

Why should I buy at auction?

An auction obviously requires willing buyers as well as motivated sellers. Whilst some think that the process is skewed in favour of the vendor, I believe it’s actually the best way of purchasing too. For a start, you may actually face less competition at an auction than in other methods of sale as not every buyer can be in a cash, unconditional state. Therefore you could get the chance to purchase before others can. Secondly, it is the most transparent way to buy. Speaking from personal experience, I felt far more comfortable bidding at an auction where I could see my competition and know that I only had to bid one higher than them. I looked at making an offer on a property being sold via a deadline sale but in the end I chose not to as I wasn’t sure quite what the property was worth and didn’t want to stab in the dark and pay over the odds.

It’s all about becoming familiar with how auctions work so that you feel confident to participate, and this is where you can work with the agent to prepare.

A GOOD AUCTIONEER ENGAGES THE CROWD AND USES WHATEVER MEANS NECESSARY TO CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE THAT GENERATES MOMENTUM

Conor Patton 022 062 0681 conor.patton@mikepero.com

Licensed Agent REAA 2008 MARCH/APRIL 2015

39

40

property

Tips for bidding at an auction & how to prepare Go and watch other auctions in the days or weeks leading up to the property you are interested in bidding on. Listen to the terms and conditions that the auctioneer reads out so that the language becomes clear to you.

When it comes time to setting a limit, and we’ve all got to have one, try and think in terms of a range of three different price points; the price you’d feel like you got it for a bargain, where you think it quite possibly realistically sits in the market, and finally a figure that if push came to shove and you’re down to the smallest of bid increments you’d pay if you were planning to spend the next 20 years in it. This way, at different points in the auction you can refer back to these figures and bid accordingly.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

Get to the auction in plenty of time.

The amount of people that leave it to the last minute and arrive flustered is incredible. If immediately before the auction you are still feeling rather nervous about the whole thing, go up and introduce yourself to the auctioneer. We are a friendly bunch! It’ll put you at ease and the auctioneer can also give you some last minute tips to make you feel more comfortable.

Have a meeting with the listing agent, or the agent that you are working with, a day or two before the auction to discuss a strategy.

The agent obviously cannot disclose the reserve price, or any other confidential information if they have met with other interested parties, but they can give you advice on different ways to bid and what could happen in certain scenarios.

Open the bidding. First because it lets people know immediately that you’re there and that you’re keen.

You want to give the impression that you have an infinite budget (even though of course you don’t) so that other bidders lose confidence as they think their chances of beating you are slim. Secondly, if you don’t the auctioneer will. And the auctioneer will do so at a low level to encourage all potential parties to get in and start bidding. Once these parties have entered proceedings it will build their confidence and you may have to bid against more people than you need have if you’d opened the bidding at a more realistic level.

Bid promptly, and loudly. Not to the point of rudeness, but again it’s about sowing the seeds of doubt into other bidders’ minds that you are in it for the long haul.

Gracious Spacious Heartland Merivale.

16 Webb Street, Merivale, Christchurch Brian Langley 027 276 5995 0800 000 525 mikeperoprestige.com/16webb

Mike Pero Real Estate Limited Licensed REAA (2008)

42

property

HouseMatters

with Mike Pero Real Estate 9 Ways To Add Value To Your Home For Under $500 If you’re looking to put your home on the market and you want to add value, or you just want to freshen the place up, then you will be surprised what you can achieve with a little elbow grease and a surprisingly small budget. Below is a list of tips that can help you improve your home for under $500. We also show the approximate value that you could potentially add to your property ranging from hundreds of dollars ($$) to several thousand dollars ($$$$$)*.

1

Declutter and clean Cost: From $0, but you could turn a profit Value added: $$$

This is a must before an open home - general clutter can create the illusion that a room is a lot smaller and lacking storage and this can ultimately be a make-or-break for some buyers. Eliminating personal possessions is also key - buyers need to be able to envision themselves living in the property and this can be hard to do if you have family photos in every room of the house. If you find yourself wanting to bin some unwanted items then consider listing them on Trade Me - you may just make some money!

2

Spruce up your street view Cost: From $30 to repaint front door; $100 to $250 for a new letterbox; $10 to $30 for new welcome mat Value added: $$$$$

Many people will drive past your home before they decide to attend an open home and therefore first impressions are crucial. Walk across the road and view your house with a fresh set of eyes - see what your first impression is. Are there nails hanging off the letterbox, is the garden looking overgrown, do you have a partly broken fence or can you spot algae or mould? All of these small things are an easy fix and can go a long way to making a memorable first impression.

3

Give your kitchen a facelift Cost: From $450 for a small kitchen Value added: $$$$$

It’s possible to give your dated kitchen a cosmetic facelift on a small budget. The kitchen is still considered the heart of the home and is a big draw card to many purchasers. By simply replacing tired-looking handles and repainting your units you can modernise the look of your kitchen. If you want to branch out and spend a bit more then you could look at replacing your splashback or benchtop.

4

Smarten up your garden Cost: From $0 Value added: $$$$

A well-presented garden can add great value to any home. You can create an inviting outdoor oasis by simply mowing the lawn, pruning overgrown plants and disposing of any stray branches or leaves. However, you could go a step further and add a splash of colour by planting some shrubs or perennials.

5

Repaint your walls Cost: From $450 for a small house Value added: $$$$

A fresh coat of paint can add a new lease of life to your house. It’s best to repaint with a neutral palette – this allows the new owners to easily put their own touches on the house. It’s a great idea to use a paint calculator to help you work out how much you will need.

For more tips visit mikepero.com/housematters or to talk about selling your home call 0800 000 525 MARCH/APRIL 2015

property

6

Make your fence fantastic Cost: Around $50 for 10L of fence paint Value added: $$$$

Once again, this will add to the street appeal of your home. By applying a coat of stain or paint you will revitalise your fence and get rid of any aging imperfections like chipped paint.

7

Take care of the little repairs Cost: From $0 Value added: $$$

Potential buyers are going to be your biggest critics and while you may have become accustomed to a dripping tap, it is something that will appear on their radar. Simple cleaning and repairs that don’t cost a penny can include cleaning your windows, fixing creaky doors and filling in tiles where grout may be missing.

8

Install new interior door handles Cost: From $350 for 10 interior doors (DIY installation) Value added: $$

This is a relatively quick and cheap way to make your home look more modern. You may no longer notice your tired, outdated door handles, but potential buyers will. By replacing handles you can give any room an instant boost.

9

Clean your carpet Cost: Around $200 for a professional clean on a medium-sized house or do it yourself with a Rug Doctor for around $70.

Value added: $$

The family carpet gets a lot of wear, spilt food and pet hair, so cleaning the carpet helps it to look – and more importantly smell – its best. *Estimates for value are a guide only and actual returns will depend on the original condition of the house, the quality of the improvements and many other factors. Talk to a real estate agent or valuer who can recommend the best ways to add value to your property before selling.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

43

44

irrigation

Lush

greenery Providing water systems for our parks, golf courses, sub-divisions and most importantly our gardens, we talk to Phil Hudson of Freeman Irrigation about what irrigation means and why it is important

MARCH/APRIL 2015

Q

How does irrigation work?

Essentially irrigation is the water system put in place to distribute water to the areas or sections of your property that require it. Controlled through an automated timer system, irrigation can be programmed to start and stop when you want it to.

Q

Is there more than one kind of irrigation?

When we talk about residential irrigation there are really only two types: a drip line soaker hose or a sprinkler system. While you can have a combination of both, they each have different benefits and ways of distributing water to the garden. The drip-line soaker hose essentially zig-zags around the garden and drips out water,

rather than spraying it. This is a great option for those who have low water pressure, and distributes around two litres of water per hour, while a pop-up sprinkler system puts out four to twelve litres a minute.

A popular choice for lawns the pop-up system is designed to sit slightly below ground when not in use to assist with mowing and other such activities. Which system you choose is really down to personal preference.

Q

Do I have to have my whole garden wired for irrigation or can I pick and choose sections?

The garden and lawn can easily be broken into different zones, which are often based on the different requirements each zone has. The south side of the garden often doesn’t require as much water as the north

irrigation

A POPULAR CHOICE FOR LAWNS THE POP-UP SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO SIT SLIGHTLY BELOW GROUND WHEN NOT IN USE TO ASSIST WITH MOWING AND OTHER SUCH ACTIVITIES minimal wind evaporation at this time and it isn’t impeding on the daily use and enjoyment of the garden.

Q side, while the lawn might need more water than the garden. By breaking your irrigation design into different zones it allows you to tailor your watering to suit the various needs of the different garden and lawn areas.

Q

What are the benefits of irrigation?

One of the biggest benefits is the saving on time and money and water.

While we all like to think we have the time to be wandering around the garden with a hose, the reality is we don’t and as a result our plants and lawn can suffer. By having an automated system it allows us to have a lush garden and lawn year round with minimal impact on our daily lives.

We recommend irrigation be set for activation at around 4am, as there is

Can you assist with the design of my system as well as the installation?

The design of your irrigation system is based around a water management plan and we work closely with landscapers and the client to achieve this. It involves a visit to the site where we measure the dimensions of the space, determine the water pressure, the performance this pressure will have with our system, and where power for the controller will be sourced from. We then go away and draw up a plan which reflects all of this as well as the clients needs.

Q

What do I need to consider when planning my irrigation system?

Time and time again we talk about the importance of not compromising on the coverage. You want to achieve uniformity in the growth of your lawn and garden, so you don’t want to be cutting corners and leaving parts of the garden without water.

Q

When during my build or renovation should I be thinking about irrigation?

The best time to be installing your

irrigation system is before the hard landscaping is complete to ensure that the plumbing and electrical side of the system is installed without too much of an impact on your beautiful finished garden and lawn. We do however have a mole-plough system that allows us to cut a small unobtrusive slit in the grass. For those who are adding an irrigation system to their current lawn this is a great option as it ensures there is minimal mess and disruption. We are simply able to drag the pipe into place, leaving a small cut on the grass which is easily repaired with water.

Q

What kind of ongoing maintenance is there with your systems?

A big part of longevity when it comes to your irrigation system is maintenance, however this isn’t to say that you need to be out there every day playing with and checking on the hoses. Maintenance is really about doing the occasional walk around to make sure the system is working as it should. A yearly check up is recommended. We have a maintenance side of the business that allows us to work alongside our clients to ensure their systems are being cared for, and operating, as they should be. freemanirrigation.co.nz | 0800 22 33 92 MARCH/APRIL 2015

45

Exclusive, world leading kitchen brands

out and about

47

Out Of The Box Having begun in a double shipping container in Sumner, Out of the Box is an earthquake success story that has recently relocated to The Tannery. Filled with unique, edgy, contemporary homewares and furniture it is an addiction waiting to be discovered. Owner Karen Sheridan’s fashion industry background has given her an eye for colour and taste for adventurous and interesting design, so expect to see well designed pieces that will add vitality and flair to any room.

This eclectic selection of fabulous, musthave homeware and furniture, includes everything from an amazing emerald green sofa to side tables, to candles, ceramics, cushions and lighting.

40a The Tannery, 3 Garlands Road outoftheboxchch.co.nz

LOVE

Places we

Jamie Kay One of our favourite places to shop online is homeware store Jamie Kay. Filled with an array of beautiful and unusual pieces for the home and the little people in our lives it is a must-visit.

Showing an early passion for design and an eye for all things beautiful, Jamie Kay was founded in 2013 by its namesake, owner, creator, designer, wife and mum, Jamie.

After studying and working in the fashion industry, Jamie made the natural progression towards homewares, art and jewellery, which saw her creativity and inspiration run freely.

With each piece lovingly designed by Jamie in her studio in Canterbury, you know you are walking away with a unique piece that has been crafted with flair, creativity and passion. jamiekay.co.nz MARCH/APRIL 2015

48

food

Online Inspiration

Lovers of everything that nourishes the body, mind and soul, sisters Julia and Libby are a continual source of all things delicious, interesting and healthy. juliaandlibby.com

Roast Pesto Chicken + Tomato Salsa This is chicken at its best – simple, yet intensely flavoured and tasting of summer.

Preparation and Cooking Time: 30 minutes, plus marinating for 3 hours or overnight.

Serves 4–6

Drying Style

Get the dishes done and dusted in style with these colourful and quirky tea towels. cittadesign.com

Beautiful Storage

Add a natural touch to your countertop with these barrelshape canisters. redcurrent.co.nz

A Journey of Flavours

Smoke and Fire combines Fix and Foggs delicious Super Crunchy peanut butter with organic cayenne, chillies, natural Manuka smoked and Spanish smoked paprika.

Try it on toast with avocado, add it to your satay sauce or burger, or just eat it straight from the jar! fixandfogg.co.nz

MARCH/APRIL 2015

Ingredients 1kg chicken tenderloins or breast ¾ cup basil or coriander pesto 3 cups greens, e.g. assorted lettuce, rocket, baby spinach or watercress Salsa 4 medium ripe tomatoes, seeds removed and finely diced 6 spring onions, finely sliced 1 small red onion, finely diced 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste Trim tenderloins. If using chicken breast, cut to the same size as a tenderloin. Place in a bowl and stir in pesto to cover each piece of chicken. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 3 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 200°C. Place chicken on a grill rack over a baking pan and cook in the oven for 15–20 minutes until golden and tender. Place it under a grill for 5 minutes if you want crispy chicken. Slice the chicken in half and layer it on a serving plate with the greens.

To make the salsa, combine all the ingredients and spoon over the chicken and greens.

Serve with bread on the side, or pile into pita bread pockets. Try sprinkling over some pomegranate seeds and fresh mint leaves.

Recipe from One-dish Dinners by Penny Oliver, Photography

by Manja Wachsmuth. Published by Penguin Group NZ.

Help us to provide a bed for him, when he needs one.

MAKE YOUR DONATION NOW Simplify your cooking and save on cleanup time with this collection of delicious meals requiring just one pot, pan, bowl, baking dish or casserole. Penny Oliver illustrates that cooking fabulous meals doesn’t require complicated recipes and a multitude of pots and pans. Packed full of aromatic spices and fresh herbs, even the simplest meal can deliver a satisfying flavour punch. Big on flavour but light on fuss this is the perfect cookbook for those wanting to wow without the stress.

Since we were founded 90 years ago, Cholmondeley Children’s Centre have helped over 25,000 children and their families experiencing stress or a crisis. Like a lot of Canterbury families, we also lost our home in the earthquake, but we’re rebuilding.

Our new facility provides a safe child-centred environment, and one which allows the children to relax, whilst providing a purposeful and rewarding experience.

To make a one off, or ongoing contribution to Cholmondeley please visit www. cholmondeley.org.nz

50

diy project

Lighting

the way Lucinda Diack takes an unwanted bedside lamp and gives it a much needed facelift

YOU WILL NEED: An old lamp Craft knife Metal glue Paint brush Paint, I used Resene Summit Roof Cool Colour (in colour Blue Zodiac) for the metal shade and Resene Black White for the timber base

F

abulous light fittings, chandeliers and pendants are a growing trend in our home environment so I thought I would update an old ‘frumpy’ lamp into something new and modern.

Removing the shade from its base, I used a craft knife to cut away the fabric from its metal frame. While most of it came off cleanly, some of the detailing had been glued onto the frame so required some careful cutting to break

the seal between glue and frame. In removing the fabric, I discovered the crown of the shade was a separate piece of metal, so once all of the fabric had been removed and discarded I used a metal glue to adhere it to the main frame.

Once dry I was able to paint the frame my selected colour. While you could use spray paint for this you would need to ensure your spray was

consistent to achieve an even painted surface, without bubbles. Either way the key thing is to ensure your selected paint is able to be applied to a metal surface.

After painting the frame I opted for a contrasting colour to paint the timber lamp base. Once the lamp shade was back on its base, and a new bulb in place it became the perfect bedside light – no longer hidden in the cupboard due its to less than desirable aesthetic!

Frameless Glass Showers Available from Chesters Plumbing & Bathroom

03 335 0053 www.chesters.co.nz 6 Magdala Place, Middleton

0800 40 40 42 www.crestshowers.co.nz

FRAMELESS

MARCH/APRIL 2015

colour palette

Resene Conundrum

Resene Colour Consultant Nikki Morris offers inspiration when it comes to embracing the colours of the season

A

utumn is filled with an abundance of delicious and natural-toned colours. Earthy and rich, comforting and captivating, they are a showcase of burnt oranges, toasted plums and golden yellows sitting amongst shades of aged greens, raspberry reds and nesty chocolates with a crisp and fresh sky blue as a backdrop. It’s a warm and inviting colour palette to introduce into our interiors this season.

Beautiful colours that echo and capture the shades of our autumn can easily be applied as the anchoring accents or as the dominant stand out statement in our homes. Mantels and fireplace surrounds are a perfect place to add a pop of a rustic and earthy autumn colour; it oozes warmth and can easily be painted out as the seasons change - you can even get a little bit creative and try a special effect like a sponged effect or a vintage aged finish. Upcycling furniture is also an

Resene Wimbledon

Resene Clockwork Orange easy way to introduce some new colour – coffee tables, bookcases and chair legs can be dipped, brushed or rolled in varying shades for a collected and homey look. Or for those with an open plan space, go beyond the feature wall and try painting an exposed beam or bulkhead an autumnal shade to help bring definition to the individual areas. While for those wanting something a little bit different, why not paint a window frame, that overlooks the garden, and transform your window into a bold frame of your view.

Feeling like you could try something a little bolder? Why not consider using Resene WallPrint for something totally unique and all yours. This customised wallpaper allows you to make up your own customised wall mural, or for those seeking inspiration check out the Komar Mural range. Either way now is the time to decorate your walls in style. resene.co.nz/wallprint | 0800 RESENE

Resene Starstruck

Resene Triple Rakaia

Resene Red Letter

Resene Memphis Belle

Resene Rough N Tumble MARCH/APRIL 2015

51

52

news

Practical Beauty Handmade, this spectacular coffee table will become the centerpiece in any home. Complemented by a thick glass top, not only does it look good but it’s practical. global-living.co.nz

Fashionable Comfort

From iconic Kiwi fashion brand Kowtow, comes a limited edition homeware accessory, the Mirrorwall floor cushion cover. Made from 100% certified fair trade organic cotton twill and hand screen printed, these cushions will make a comfy addition to the living room. wandaharland.co.nz

WANTS and

A One Off

NEEDS

Offering a bespoke collection of furniture and art, the Living On The Edge (LOTE) range from Joe Jandals boasts a touch of retro.

With each piece lovingly crafted by owner-operator Rachael Hemingway, the results are bold, unique and one of kind. joejandals.co.nz

Drawing on the autumn colours and cooler temperatures discover our latest must-haves for the home

THESE CUSHIONS WILL BRING A SENSE OF STYLE AND FUN TO THE HOME NO MATTER WHERE THEY ARE USED

cocogifts.co.nz MARCH/APRIL 2015

Flower of the moment Terrariums Quirky yet fabulous, these miniature ecosystems are a must-have and great way to bring a touch of foliage to the home.

news

READING CORNER Discover our daily reads online.

designclaud.com Showcasing everything to do with interiors, style, travel and lifestyle DesignClaud is the brainchild of Dutch interior architect Claudia Arends.

Stepping inside her world, you can’t help but get caught up in wanting to translate her warm yet minimalist Scandinavian design into your own living environment.

designsponge.com For those of you as obsessed with design, interiors and all things home as we are, Design*Sponge is probably already on your daily blog reading list. Run by Brooklyn based writer, Grace Bonney, this is a great place to get inspired, get informed and stay on top of international

Whimsical Colour New from Romo is the Saphira collection. Digitally printed, this brings the blooms of spring alive through the medium of watercolour. Delicate floras are infused with exquisite tonal hues on soft cotton-satin or elegant cotton-linen, while tranquil stripes intertwine and cascade down a delicate cotton-linen.

Whether embraced as curtains, cushions or on furniture these stunning florals will add subtle touches of colours to the home. seneca.co.nz

Flirty Functionality Quirky, outrageous and totally unique Jonathan Adler Muse Brass Tongue wall hook will have people coming back for a second look time and time again. wandaharland.co.nz

Soft and inviting This Waffle Linen Throw will add texture and warmth to the home. Perfect across the end of the bed, or draped over the arm of a favourite chair. coastnewzealand.com

thedesignfiles.net Much closer to home The Design Files is run by an Australia based group of talented individuals and has been recognised as one of the worlds top 50 design blogs. Covering Australian design in all its forms, from architecture, interiors, gardens, food, art and craft, this is a blog passionate about sharing an insight into how we live.

ADD SOME PERSONALITY TO THE KITCHEN AND THE THANKLESS TASK OF DRYING DISHES WITH THIS MOO TEA-TOWEL

www.thefoxesden.co.nz

MARCH/APRIL 2015

53

shop window

shop window To feature your business here call 021 782 228 or email advertising@abodemagazine.co.nz

Joe Jandals joejandals.co.nz Showcasing the creative talents of Rachael Hemingway, Joe Jandals offers the discerning homeowner a chance to purchase something truly unique. Found at 18L Bower Ave, Rachael’s new showroom is the embodiment of creativity.

Coco Gifts

Out Of The Box

cocogifts.co.nz Nestled amongst a raft of well-known shops on Rutland Street, Coco Gifts is a fabulous French inspired gift and homeware store.

Owner operators Vicki and Leanne are passionate about satisfying their customers’ needs, no matter what the occasion.

outoftheboxchch.co.nz Found within the vibrant hub that is The Tannery, Out of The Box is a contemporary shop all about providing designer-inspired furniture and home décor. Whether for the study, the bedroom, the bathroom or the living room, there is something to suit all.

Jamie Kay

OBELISK

jamiekay.co.nz With a passion and eye for all things beautiful, Jamie Kay is an online store crafted with love, as each piece is designed

by Jamie herself, from her studio in Canterbury. This is a creative space with everything you need for the home and the little ones.

obelisk.co.nz With a focus on the unique and enhancing individuality, Obelisk have a stunning array of pieces on display in their Tai Tapu showroom, ensuring they can provide a fabulous sense of style and drama in the home, garden or wherever you desire.

Soeur Design

NC Design

soeurdesign.com Found in Merivale this designer store offers the discerning customer everything from fashion, to jewellery, to art and more.

Their unique range of products ensures there is always something new to discover.

ncdesign.co.nz Offering inspiration for those embarking on a kitchen or bathroom renovation or build, Nicky Claridge provides a wealth of knowledge and advice.

Ensuring her designs are practical yet beautiful and as unique as the clients they are for.

MARCH/APRIL 2015

55

56

directory

IN YOUR FACE www.adgraphix.co.nz

Kevin Williams

ENERGY

021 221 2616

www.digoutservices.co.nz digoutservices@xtra.co.nz

PV & HOT WATER

EXPERT INSTALLATION BY

Covering ALL excavating requirements throughout Christchurch & North Canterbury

SPECIALIST SUSTAINABILITY

ELECTRICIANS 0800

ABW

NOW

abwelectric.co.nz

Get inspired by the latest Athena Collection

Visit your local Edward Gibbon showroom today

edwardgibbon.co.nz MARCH/APRIL 2015

directory

Dilana makers of bespoke rugs and suppliers of custom made wall-to-wall carpet

Dilana workshop and showroom Mon - Fri 9 - 5pm 102 Buchan Street, Sydenham Phone 03 366 5866 www.dilana.co.nz Colorsteel® and Vintage Copper© Spouting

• Aluminium windows and doors • Architecture Series • Thermally broken windows and doors • Hardware for windows and doors Free measure and quote

Phone 03 323 7808

1261 Main North Road, Bridgend Belfast Email sales@kaj.co.nz Web www.kaj.co.nz

Upgrading or building from new we can implement the perfect solution for your spouting needs.

Installation Repairs Free quote Free consultancy

Phone: 0800 33 77 94 www.caspouting.co.nz

CANTERBURY ARCHITECTURAL SPOUTING

The Mobile Outdoor Advertising Experts

Dress up your walls

with wallpaper from Resene More than 12 years’ experience managing campaigns nationwide.

Our list of clients is extensive and the frequency of repeat bookings testament to the success of our outdoor advertising campaigns.

chris@beaconbillboards.co.nz www.beaconbillboards.co.nz

Call: 021 994 430

To feature your business here call 021 782 228 or email advertising@abodemagazine.co.nz

We have everything you need to bring out the best in your home.

See our extensive wallpaper library in-store or online.

0800 RESENE (737 363) www.resene.co.nz/wallpaper MARCH/APRIL 2015

57

58

the last word

THE ADDED VALUE OF

good design

Shedding light on why affordable housing doesn’t have to be ugly, architect John Chaplin discusses the ongoing conundrum between affordability and good design

R

eviewing house designs for a major Christchurch subdivision I am often surprised by the fundamental oversights in how new homes are planned and how they are orientated on site. The Design Guidelines for these developments cover both external appearance as well as planning and orientation, and while external appearance can be subjective, the issue of well resolved planning and orientation is far more fundamental and comes from a mixture of experience and common sense.

With few exceptions the design and orientation of these homes could be better resolved, with the tendency to replicate the standard group home designs with limited reference to the site they are going to be built on. The argument in support of these generic

CAN YOU REALLY AFFORD NOT TO BE MAXIMISING YOUR HOME DESIGN TO ENSURE IT IS WORKING FOR YOUR UNIQUE NEEDS AND SITE? MARCH/APRIL 2015

plans is that to make changes you have to spend more, yet this does not have to be the case. In many instances the reluctance to make any changes is more the result of pressure to make a sale, rather than to offer options for a better solution.

When the basis of the design for a new homeowner starts with a standard plan, and is modified to suit their personal choices, it can still too often fail to take into account the site. It is not unusual to find the garage and driveway taking pride of place in the sheltered afternoon sunshine, while dedicated outdoor living spaces are shaded and exposed to prevailing winds. It is surprising just how often this occurs, and with our Christchurch summers so badly affected by the northeasterly winds, opening the garage door can become the best spot on the site in which to enjoy the afternoon barbeque – why is this?

Regarding external appearance, while often subjective, a few basic rules still apply, especially regarding selection of cladding and colours. Of concern is the tendency for designers to allow the external shape of the house to step in and out to suit the random changes in floor plan, with no thought to roof form, and then solve the problem by simply letting the CAD software generate a complex mess of hips, valleys and gables.

Good design is being able to think and design in three dimensions and in particular to consider a well-resolved roof form as part of the design.

My advice for those looking to build a standard design straight from the pages of a plan book, is to more carefully consider the site and the orientation of the house, and resist the convenience of a generic

’one size fits all’ approach. Attempts to save design costs can lead to a significant reduction in the value in your home.

An investment in a nominal amount of time with an experienced architect or architectural designer to ensure the concept design for the home is suited to your site may seem to some as an ‘unnecessary’ outlay of money, but it will pay for itself time and time again.

A simple edit in the orientation of your house could see your home flooded with natural north facing sunlight, saving you money on your energy bills, and adding considerably to the ease and value in any future sale.

The question is, can you really afford not to be maximising your home design to ensure it is working for your unique needs and site? ccarchitects.co.nz | 03 384 9602

Call us today 0800 80 1004 www.wrightspapools.co.nz 1004 Ferry Road, Ferrymead, Christchurch

Providing Advanced Construction Systems to New Zealand’s residential and commercial projects.

Exterior plaster Façade, Fencing and Flooring Systems, we also provide complete hand applied, interior finishing solutions using the latest technology & materials providing durable, and aesthetic results you can trust.

All systems are warranted and installed by Registered LBP Plasterers to strict specifications providing surety of performance to your project.

Rockcote Masonry Render System, Christchurch, New Zealand Image courtesy of Wilson & Hill Architects

www.reseneconstruction.co.nz 0800 50 70 40