Inspire Create Design - August 2023

I RE DE N R

T H E B E A U T Y O F T H E I N V I S I B L E

Frameless glass shower screens, fences and balustrades deliver timeless elegance in any setting. Our range of frameless glass is complemented by the Vetro Raccordi range of quality hinges, handles and accessories.

For all your glass needs including shower screens, pool fences, windows, doors, mirrors, balustrades and custom made and designed kitchen & bathroom splashbacks contact Northland Vetro Raccordi

Frameless glass

ELEVATING YOUR SPACE

The Art of Interior Design with Furniture

When it comes to creating a home that resonates with your personality and lifestyle, interior design plays a pivotal role. One of the most influential aspects of interior design is furniture selection, as it not only defines the functionality of a space but also sets the tone for the overall aesthetic.

The marriage of form and function is at the heart of exceptional interior design Furniture as both a practical necessity and an artistic expression exemplifies this balance Each piece must not only serve a purpose but also contribute to the overall visual coherence of the space

Modern interior design celebrates furniture that seamlessly integrates into the rooms layout while making a statement all its own

Consider a sleek modular sectional sofa that offers both comfort and versatility Such a piece adapts effortlessly to different room layouts while also providing ample seating for gatherings This exemplifies the beauty of furniture that serves

not only as a functional item but also as a key design element that brings the room together

APaletteofMaterials

Materials breathe life into furniture defining its texture, durability, and visual appeal

From warm natural wood finishes that exude timeless elegance to the sleek futuristic aesthetic of metal and glass combinations, the choice of materials greatly influences a rooms atmosphere

A living room adorned with a reclaimed wood coffee table leather armchairs and soft woolen rugs evokes a sense of rustic charm and comfort

On the other hand a dining area featuring a glass-topped table with chrome accents

embraces modernity and sophistication

Skillful selection and combination of materials can elicit emotions and tell stories within your living spaces

ScalingforProportions

Proper scaling is the secret to optimizing a room ’ s layout Furniture that’s too large can overwhelm the space while pieces that are too small might get lost in the arrangement Achieving the right balance requires careful consideration of dimensions and proportions.

In a spacious living room a large plush sectional can provide a cozy gathering spot for family and friends On the contrary a compact sofa and a pair of minimalist armchairs work

wonders in a smaller area providing comfort without crowding the space. Understanding the relationship between furniture size and room dimensions is the cornerstone of effective interior design

ExpressingIdentity

Your home is an extension of your identity and furniture serves as a unique channel for expressing who you are. Whether you gravitate toward vintage elegance, contemporary minimalism or a fusion of eclectic styles, your furniture choices can articulate your tastes and values.

VersatilityinDesign

Adaptability is a hallmark of exceptional furniture design Pieces that can seamlessly transition from one setting to another offer a higher level of functionality and longevity This is especially relevant in today’s dynamic world where spaces often serve multiple purposes. A prime example of versatile furniture is the storage ottoman Not only does it provide extra seating but it also offers hidden storage helping you maintain a clutter-free environment Similarly a dining table with extendable leaves can accommodate intimate family dinners as well as larger gatherings, showcasing the ingenuity of adaptable design

Recliner chairs have become an iconic symbol of relaxation providing unmatched comfort and functionality to individuals seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life

Among the many brands that produce recliners two stand out as industry leaders in crafting top-quality luxurious seating options La-Z-Boy and Stressless In this article, we will explore the world of recliners delving into traditional recliners power chairs and lift chairs while spotlighting the unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation behind the products of La-Z-Boy and Stressless

TraditionalRecliners:

Traditional recliners are the epitome of classic comfort providing users with the familiar leveroperated mechanism to recline These chairs are manually adjusted allowing individuals to find their preferred position with ease Key features of traditional recliners include:

• Adjustability: Traditional recliners offer a wide range of reclining angles accommodating various relaxation preferences

• PlushComfort: These recliners often co with generously padded seats backrests and armrests ensuring a cosy experience

• TimelessDesign: Traditional recliners boast a timeless and versatile design complementing various interior styles

PowerChairs:

Power chairs have risen in popularity due to their effortless and motorised reclining capabilities

Operated with the push of a button power recliners offer a seamless transition between different positions Key features of power chairs include:

• ElectricReclining: Power chairs use electric motors to adjust the chairs position making reclining as easy as pressing a button

• CustomisedComfort: Many power chairs come with programmable settings enabling users to save their favourite positions for maximum comfort

• Enhanced Features: Some models of power chairs may include heated seats massage functions, and built-in USB ports for added convenience

Lift chairs are designed to assist individuals with limited mobility making it easier for them to transition from a seated to a standing position. These chairs have a lifting mechanism that gently elevates the user Key features of lift chairs include:

• LiftAssistance: Lift chairs provide a gentle and controlled lift motion supporting individuals in standing up without straining

with additional features such as lumbar support and padded armrests to enhance user comfort

• DiverseStyles: Lift chairs are available in various styles and sizes to cater to different preferences and needs

Recliner chairs have transcended from being mere furniture pieces to feats of engineering designed to cater to diverse needs and preferences La-Z-Boy and Stressless stand as cornerstones of this evolution consistently delivering traditional recliners power chairs, and lift chairs that celebrate the trinity of comfort style, and utility At Fabers Furnishings immerse yourself in the world of recliners where classic comfort meets cutting-edge technology Let Fabers friendly team guide you towards finding the recliner that embodies relaxation and ultimate comfort in your living space.

With over 40 years of local experience, the Frazerhurst team of industry professionals, can help you make the best decisions based on your home’s unique style and function

Offering more than just custom-made curtains and blinds

Whether you are looking for a large entertainers’ umbrella, a full automation system for your curtains and blinds, awnings, shutters or specialised insect screens – you have come to the right place.

CRAFTING AFFORDABLE, STYLISH HOMES IN NORTHLAND

Meet Leah and Tim, two unstoppable forces who are rewriting the rulebook on age and achievement Their brainchild, TL Build, is turning heads in New Zealand’s Northland region, where they’re shaking up the construction scene by creating beautiful, affordable transportable homes Their story is all about never giving up on your dreams, no matter your age

Leah and Tims careers took them do different paths before TL Build Tim (now 73) has been a builder for over 40 years and is a Licensed Building Practitioner He recently retired from the Dargaville High School Building Academy, w he was instrumental in starting Throughout Tims tenure he secured a contract with Kain Ora building transportable houses - no easy

As TL Build’s vision solidified into “Inspiratio Homes, Leahs incredible journey brought a fresh harmony Formerly a Real Estate Agent Leah’s talent for transforming houses into ho seamlessly complements Tims expertise As trades assistant to Tim for two years prior th new project ‘Inspirational Homes inspired Leah to dive headfirst in to a carpentry apprenticeship of her own But that’s not all Leah goes beyond bricks and mortar – she also lends her talents to a local band With her keen sense of art and aesthetics, Leahs touch resonates throughout TL Builds creations

Their goal was simple yet ambitious – make homes that are stylish practical and dont break the bank all the while catering to the unique

After honing their skills, they took the plunge and secured a yard in Dargaville a spot thats become the heart of TL Build’s operations Their team might be small but its mighty Phil whos in the middle of his own apprenticeship joined them following his sales position at Carters Phil is no ordinary team member – hes often hailed as the best worker theyve ever had He adds his own flair to TL Builds story, highlighting the companys commitment to embracing talents from all walks

doesnt just build houses; they create at are as unique as the people who live eah and Tim pour their hearts into ail thanks to their years of experience relentless pursuit of perfection.

ms it up perfectly We re not merely ing buildings we ’ re moulding the nd se in s a sp ls practices off on the envir

With each h are leaving a proving tha to pursuing difference in

As TL Build keeps growing and the demand for their homes rises Leah, Tim, and Phil stand as living proof that dedication, creativity, and the pursuit of dreams are ageless Their journey is an inspiration for anyone with a dream, showing that with determination and the right attitude, anything is possible

In a world where inspiration can sometimes be hard to find, Leah and Tim’s story shines as a beacon of hope. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary journeys start later in life.

TL Build’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Northland – proof that passion, hard work, and the belief that it’s never too late to build a better future can make remarkable things happen.

Your style of living… Your style of builder!

Fowler Homes has been involved with the building industry since 1984.

In the last 39 years Fowler Homes have built a reputation of attention to details and quality winning multiple awards for our designs and standards of building

We believe in making the building process simple and we project manage the entire process from the initial design sketch through to completion Whether you own land or need help finding it Fowler Homes will help you build your dream home where you want for your family and lifestyle

We have amassed over 2 988 plans and many great examples can be found in our series of thirteen PLAN BRIEF books which are available

for you to browse through at our office located on Walton Street, Whangārei Each Plan Brief contains scores of practical plans of varying sizes tastes and budgets that we have designed and built for New Zealand families in the past This created a great starting point for you to create your own perfect home with Fowler Homes For those that have their dream home in mind we offer a Design & Build service Tell us your ideas or bring in existing plans and we can bring your dreams to life – any size any style and with Fowler’s high level of service and attention to detail Another great reason clients trust us to build their homes

Fowler Homes Northland Director Wayne Pickerill says I am proud to be a long term Northland resident and thoroughly enjoy living and working in Whangārei With many dedicated years in new home build and construction you can be confident in the knowledge that my experience and understanding of the regions unique climate and topography will be a great advantage when building your new home”

“When you choose to build with me you choose to build with confidence, knowing that you are working with the managing director from start to finish. I have gained a reputation for going the extra mile, assisting my clients through the entire building process

“In addition to this you also have the reassurance of knowing my handpicked team of professional tradesman will be building your new homes At Fowler Homes Northland we aim to exceed your expectations and create a home for you to live in and enjoy for many years to come says Wayne

Fowler Homes (Northland) Ltd 63 Walton Street, Whangārei

Phone: 09 438 4840

Fax: 09 438-4845

Mob: 021 438 481

Email: waynep@fowlerhomes co nz

UPVC Windows and Doors

Covid was a perilous time for most business owners; is there a future for my business? What will happen to the market I’m selling in? What can I do to protect myself and my staff?

The answer to these questions for three business partners here in Whangarei was to start a new business mid-pandemic to broaden their already niche offering

Shamus, Alysha and Bonnie MacInnes owners of SeaMac Aluminium Ltd which specialise in the very niche market of bespoke marine aluminium windows, decided to start TherMac Ltd – UPVC Windows and Doors

You might ask, why UPVC? There are already many window and door manufacturers here in Northland but they wanted to be different and bring a new technology to Northland

Not because its a new technology in itself because it’s been the primary window and door frame material everywhere else in the world for almost 70 years but New Zealand hasnt really taken it up like the rest of the world yet

If the rest of the world have used it for that long why aren’t we here in NZ?

And so their mission began to be the first manufacturers of UPVC windows and doors right here in Northland

Their due diligence on the right technology was critical they knew kiwis would question the UPVC lasting in the NZ sun, so they chose a brand and profile range specifically made for our climate with proven results

They needed a technology company with extensive industry experience that would support them, and they settled on Deceuninck (De-Kew-Nick) who has been around for more

than 80 years and one of the largest three UPVC window and door technology companies globally

We were so thankful that when we made our decision and applied to be a Deceuninck fabricator they said yes!”

With one other Deceuninck fabricator in Dunedin, and a further 23 in Australia who had been operating for 15-20yrs successfully it was the right fit for both TherMac and for Deceuninck who had been hoping to expand their Australasian fabricator market UPVC is a fantastic material for window and door frames Its miles ahead in thermal efficiency

TherMac Ltd

You can visit the TherMac team at 19a Hewlett Street, Port Whangarei, or go and visit their stand at this years Northland Home Show from September 29th to October 1st at McKay Stadium, Whangarei wwwthermac co nz

Northlands First Manufacturer of UPVC Windows and Do

compared to others, with only windows made from wood beating it but who wants all the maintenance of wood?

It suits all homes, from 1900s Villas to modern homes Its price competitive with other local options It’s solid it will reduce your heating and cooling bills but the biggest benefit

So many people upgrade the glass in their home to double-glazing thinking that will fix condensation, but if you currently have aluminium framing, which is a thermal conductor there is still the risk of condensation. If you’re sick of having wet windowsills each winter then UPVC is what youve been waiting for

DESIGN YOUR OWN GARDEN

Become inspired! Make your garden work for you, whether you have a blank canvas or an existing garden that needs a few improvements Your garden can be an extension of your home an outdoor room that gives you more space to play to entertain

Enjoy the benefits of being in your own garden, designed by you

What do you want from your garden? Does your garden need to accommodate children pets, entertaining? Do you just want a quiet space to sit and enjoy your surroundings?

Linda Towers is a qualified landscape architect and can guide you through the process to design

your own garden Join Linda for a short fourweek workshop with Community Education Whangarei visit https //wwwcewac nz/in-thegarden html This workshop covers site analysis concept development use of themes hard landscape and plant combinations using a mix of theory and hands-on practice

Why do gardens matter?

Gardens can help improve your physical and emotional wellbeing Sunlight is known to increase vitamin D levels which increases calcium levels benefiting your bones and immune system. Being outside in green spaces

can also lighten your mood and lower levels of stress and anxiety

Gardens connect us with nature

They can provide us with fresh fruit and veges and attract insects and birdlife

In addition, gardens can add value by giving your home street appeal’.

Your garden can be your sanctuary a place to help you unwind from the stresses of everyday life

Design your own garden to suit your needs a garden that will be attractive practical and unique!

LOOKING TO START YOUR NEXT BUILDING VENTURE

Homeworld Design & Build, with 40-plus years in the industry, can design and build your home exactly how you want it

Rather than spending weeks, months or even years shopping around for a home that has all the features you want, building new means you can get it all without having to make sacrifices or compromises

If you are looking at investing in a new home or embarking on a new building venture

Homeworld Design & Build is here to help says Barry Trass the director of the company

“Whether you like classic modern brick weatherboard or something completely unique at Homeworld we can design and build your home exactly how you want it We re Northlands

leading design and build specialists and have been in the industry for over 40 years So its fair to say we know our stuff!

From the floor plan to finishing you can control what goes into it Want a big kitchen? No problem! Whats more you can design it to cater to your current and future needs as opposed to modifying an existing home

The professional team at Homeworld Design & Build have expert knowledge and experience to help turn even the most challenging site into something incredible bringing together in-house

architectural designers colour consultants, construction supervisors and local contractors that are second to none

If you are considering building but worried about increased costs and material shortages

Homeworld can ensure these current issues are managed effectively thanks to their great local experience and the team and processes in place

in mind - to bring every element of your dream home to life in the most exciting and hassle-free way Barry says

“Why? Because we understand that building a home is a big deal - not only financially but emotionally and its nice to know you’re in the hands of someone you can trust

Choice of lots 57 and 58 featuring Architectural ulti-level 3-4 bedroom family homes with generous living areas designer kitchens. ning and afternoon ecks to enjoy the vista with room garden and hard complete these esirable homes all oved within the eveloper’s guidelines.

Modern home buildings are no longer limited to traditional building materials New and improved options are now on the market Homeworld is always staying up to date with materials that offer improved comfort and durability and less maintenance

Using our industry knowledge and presence we will make your building experience the smoothest and most rewarding journey possible We all work with passion and have one focus

Choice of 5 selected sites all with expansive views. Flat easy care sections on the fringe of the City

Low maintenance Brick and Tile, 3 bedroom, aster ensuite, double garage. Best value new builds in town.

Whether youve got your drawings all ready to go or looking for support to come up with the perfect plan, start your journey today with Homeworld Design & Build 0800

5 Key Steps to a Successful Home Renovation

enovation projects can be intimidating, particularly with regard to budgeting and selecting suitable contractors Questions may be running through your head like: Should I contact a builder early on or after I meet an architect? What can I do to manage my budget to get the best value? Can I save money without compromising craftsmanship or design? Who with relevant experience should I approach for assistance? How do I navigate Council consents and requirements and stay sane at the same time?

1 Getyourtimelinetight–overrun’scost money

Our project schedules include considerations for various weather conditions unforeseen issues and other challenges This helps us provide you with a budget that closely reflects your actual spending needs

2. Getyourcontractorinvolved–EARLY

In our years of experience weve discovered the sooner we are involved the better as even small changes can SAVE you big money as we turn your plans into reality One or two pointers from our years of experience could mean thousands in your pocket

3

COLOUR STEEL ROOFS

Enhancing Home Design and Protection

Elevating Northland’s Architectural Landscape: The Advantages of Colour Steel Roofs for Home Aesthetics and Durability

Colour Steel roofs offer an array of striking colors and profiles that allow homeowners in Northland to express their unique tastes and complement their property’s surroundings

The roofing materials sleek lines and contemporary profiles harmonize effortlessly with the region’s diverse architectural styles from coastal retreats to rural havens Whether the aim is to achieve a modern minimalist look or to blend in with the natural environment, Colour Steel roofs offer a versatile palette that elevates the visual appeal of any structure

Northlands climate is known for its variability with heavy rainfall strong winds, and the harsh rays of the sun all playing a role throughout the year Colour Steel roofs are tailor-made to withstand these conditions, providing superior protection for homes The roofing materials corrosion-resistant properties and advanced coating technology ensure that it can endure the region’s high humidity and salty air without succumbing to rust or decay

Furthermore, the roofs are engineered to endure extreme winds and heavy rain safeguarding homes against potential damage and reducing maintenance requirements

With sustainability becoming an integral aspect of modern living Northland homeowners are turning to Colour Steel roofs as an eco-friendly solution These roofs are designed with energy efficiency in mind featuring innovative coatings that reflect solar radiation and prevent excessive heat absorption This quality helps regulate indoor temperatures reducing the reliance on energy-consuming cooling systems during the scorching summer months

By choosing Colour Steel roofs homeowners can contribute to a greener environment while enjoying lower energy bills

The unique climate conditions in Northland can cause traditional roofing materials to deteriorate rapidly necessitating frequent repairs and replacements Colour Steel roofs, on the other

hand, require minimal maintenance, saving homeowners both time and money The durable material resists chipping, cracking and peeling, allowing it to retain its pristine appearance for years to come This quality is particularly valuable in Northland where the combination of humidity and weather fluctuations can take a toll on lesser roofing options

Investing in a Colour Steel roof is a long-term decision that pays off in the form of longevity

The materials robust composition ensures that it can endure the test of time even in Northlands challenging weather conditions With proper installation and routine maintenance homeowners can expect their Colour Steel roofs to last for decades adding substantial value to their properties and reducing the need for premature replacements

With their weather resilience energy efficiency low maintenance requirements and remarkable longevity Colour Steel roofs have rightfully earned their place as a defining feature of

Northlands modern homes By embracing these roofs homeowners not only enhance the style of their residences but also ensure a durable, environmentally conscious and practical solution that withstands the region’s unique challengescommercial and residential painting/ coating and decorating services.

Painting surfaces you are unsure of!

Let’s tackle some painting

Writes Kem Ormond

Lying on the couch on a Sunday afternoon is probably when alot of us decide a touch of painting wouldnt go amiss

Yes repainting those plasterboard walls and the wooden surfaces of old boring furniture can make all the difference to dull and very plain rooms but have you ever attempted to paint any other surfaces?

Surfaces like metal concerete ceramics or even melamine kitchen cabinets? Yes all of these surfaces can be painted but it all comes down to the preparation and we all know how much we love that!

Plaster

If you are going to paint plaster, you need to make sure any cracks are filled before you even think about applying your primer If you have any large cracks you will need to invest in some masonary filler which can be purchased from a hardware store

Concrete

Before you start painting concrete or even brick or plaster you must treat any mould first Any concrete surface that is older than 6 months will need to be sealed before you start painting

My choice for a topcoat on concrete or brick is low sheen as this hides alot of imprefections

If you are painting steps or pavers you may need to look into non slip paint

Laminatesormelamine

This is where the professional will be able to offer advice I have seen kitchen completely transformed by being painted I have seen it look professional and I have seen it look average Both laminate and melamine need to be

carefully prepared using a sealer and appl the top coat with a roller The sealer helps the initial adhesion and this will take at lea days to cure Once cured you will be able t clean and wipe down your cupboards but curing leave well alone

Wicker,rattanandcane

If your cane or wicker furniture has alread been painted you will need to seal then add two top coats If new and untouched start quick dry primer I would suggest using a b but if you find a spray can easy to use then ahead

Whatpaintdoyouneedforwha

OilPaint

Smelly extremely sticky and slow drying i best description of oil paint and it also is no easiest for a home DIYer Furniture high-en trim and most houses built before the 1990 contain an oil-based product of some sort It is often used in high-traffic rooms becaus its hard enamel finish and ability to withst dings scratches fingerprints and more This paint type also looks super polished w properly applied making it a good fit for a high-end look

AcrylicPaint

Acrylic paint is one of the more versatile types of paint out there mostly due to its durability and weather-resistant properties Acrylic paint dries quickly, is an eco-conscious choice (it can be both reused and recycled) and does not emit anywhere near the volume of chemicals that its oil-based counterparts do

Water-BasedPaintorLatexPaint

Most of the time if you are painting inside your house, you will typically be using water-based paint which is safe to use easy to clean up and causes fewer environmental concerns Latex paint is the standard for homeowners working on interior projects because it is easy to apply

Embrace the Blooms of Spring: Transform Your Home with Blind Ideas

Updating your window furnishings stands as one of the most effective methods to infuse colour, texture, and elegance into your environment, all while providing shelter from the sun's intensity Welcome the new season in ultimate style!

and clean up So wait till summer and things are easier to dry and then let lose all your artistic talents!

Wynn Fraser 75th Birthday

Where it all began...

Moving into a new showroom in 2001 in a purpose-built facility, 20 plus years on the showroom looks better than it did back then. Same location with over 7500 product lines available in store.

Following our recent announcement increasing our Saturday opening times to 08:30am - 5:00pm to support the local community Wynn Fraser pride ourselves on having the perfect solution for every paint and coatings job.

Iwata Spray kit

Only $799 today

*Includes Iwata W-400 Spray Gun,DR5 Spray Gun air regulator, Iwata 600CC Cup Iwata Red Venom Coverall, Iwata Black Venom T shirt & Venom Cool Bin

Only 5 available at this fixed price