House of the Year Cook Strait 2022 Magazine

COOK STRAIT REGION 2022

Architecture & Craftsmanship

Driven to create surfaces that make a living environment feel good to live in, we believe the tactile nature of plaster cladding is unrivaled.

The construction process contains many facets which when combined, and applied accurately make for a shining, and durable example of the construction processfrom the clients, Architecture, through to the selection of products, and the professional trades people that apply their skills to the installation and finishing of these components.

At Resene Construction Systems we only promote the best products, solutions and practice for each and every project we work on.

TM

Master Builder: Fixation Builders

Plastering Professional:

TK Plastering, Tyson Keats

Exterior:

INTEGRA plaster facade

Made for New Zealand conditions

and a New Zealand way of life.

COLORSTEEL® – designed, tested and approved to stand up to New Zealand’s unique environments and become a part of them. Reflecting a connection to the natural world around us, while protecting us from it, at its most extreme.

Discover the ideal solution for your project at colorsteel.co.nz

Welcome

to the Registered Master Builders House of the Year 2022 magazine for the Cook Strait Region

Judging by the hundreds of entries in the prestigious Master Builders House of the Year competition, craftsmanship is thriving in New Zealand. Expert judges – leaders in construction and architecture – have again been impressed by the standard of new builds and renovations entered. We hope you enjoy perusing the bounty of quality on offer from the Master Builders in your region.

The results go live on September 25 at www.houseoftheyear.co.nz

Tovey, President

LAST YEAR’S WINNERS Cook Strait Region

COVER HOME

HOUSE OF THE YEAR REGIONAL MAP

Cook Strait Region

AUCKLAND / NORTHLAND / COROMANDEL

WAIKATO

BAY OF PLENTY & CENTRAL PLATEAU (Tauranga, Rotorua, Taup¯o, Whakatāne)

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND / EAST COAST & HAWKE’S BAY (Taranaki, Whanganui, Manawatū, East Coast, Hawke’s Bay)

COOK STRAIT (Wellington, Wairarapa, Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast)

CANTERBURY

MID & SOUTH CANTERBURY (Ashburton, South Canterbury)

SOUTHERN

(Central Otago, Southland, Gore, Otago)

PUBLISHER

Brydie Canham

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jo Seakins

ART DIRECTOR

Susanne Baldwin

EDITOR

Jo Bates

WRITERS

Fiona Barber, Claire Smith, Mary Lovell-Smith, Dominic da Souza-Correa

SUB EDITING

Christine Stride

DESIGNERS

Hayley Pearce, Emily Somerville-Ryan

ADVERTISING SALES

Tanika Goodall, Tracey Bree, Cat Jackson

EDITORIAL / SALES

ASSISTANTS

Dominic da Souza-Correa, Kyla Michel-Wiig, Will Clark

RETOUCHING

Mark Grogan

B MEDIA

09 308 9998

PO Box 47014, Ponsonby 1144 bmedia.co.nz

Registered Master Builders House of the Year is published by specialist custom publisher B Media Ltd, on behalf of the Registered Master Builders Association. Registered Master Builders House of the Year is wholly owned and managed by Registered Master Builders Association. Registered Master Builders House of the Year is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or part, without written permission of the publisher.

This magazine is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forestry. Please enjoy it, then recycle it.

If you’d like an extra copy or your magazine is damaged, please call 09 308 9998 and we’ll send you one.

John

Master Builders

Registered Master Builders House of the Year Judging the competition

A panel of industry experts has put the homes featured in this magazine through a rigorous points-based judging process. The highest-scoring projects are awarded Gold and the best become Category winners The three Category winners with the highest points are named Regional Supreme House of the Year under $1 million , Regional Supreme House of the Year over $1 million or Regional Supreme Renovation of the Year. Entries are judged on building excellence, but also on their lifestyle value, so you’ll see kitchen, Plumbing World Bathroom, outdoor living and APL Sustainable and Environmental lifestyle awards. Excellence in workmanship is recognised by the prized Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award. The Cook Strait competition, one of eight regional House of the Year events, is held on September 24. From September 25, you can view all of the results: www.houseoftheyear.co.nz

NATIONAL COMPETITION

Each year a maximum of 100 entries from the regional competitions receive Top 100 status and, out of those, we find the National Category winners. Lifestyle Award winners are also named at the national level. The three best houses (a new build under $1 million, a new build over $1 million and a renovation) become the National Supreme winners, to be announced at an awards gala on Saturday, November 26.

NATIONAL SUPREME WINNERS

There are three winners: two new builds crowned the best of the best, and the best renovation in the country.

NATIONAL CATEGORY AWARD

Awarded to the highest scoring Gold Award winner from each category.

TOP 100

Each year the highest scoring top 100 houses go on to the National Competition.

Thanks to our sponsors

PINK BATTS NATIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD

Awarded to the entrant who attains the highest score out of the points available in the Workmanship section of the judging criteria.

NATIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARDS

Awarded for attaining the highest score in each Lifestyle category, including the APL Sustainable and Environmental Excellence Award and Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award.

PLATINUM AWARD Recognises outstanding achievement in building excellence and is awarded to those who win five or more National Category titles.

NATIONAL SPECIAL AWARD

Bestowed by the judges when a house is worthy of special recognition.

MASTER BUILDERS

For more than 30 years, House of the Year has celebrated the very best of residential building in New Zealand. Master Builders is very proud of this competition, and the beautiful homes you’ll see in the following pages will inspire, motivate and show that quality can be achieved, no matter what the budget. We hope you enjoy taking a sneak peek into these amazing homes – all built by a Master Builder in your region.

www.masterbuilder.org.nz

ALTUS WINDOW SYSTEMS

Altus Window Systems is a leading manufacturer of innovative window and door product design systems. Whether your project is big or small, residential or commercial, we’ve got the solution. Altus Window Systems is a brand you can trust and our national network of fabricators have been providing window and door systems for over 65 years. You’ll know them by reputation: Bradnam’s™, Fisher™, Nebulite™, Nulook™, Rylock™ and Vistalite™. Altus Window Systems, sharing your vision.

www.altus.co.nz

BUNNINGS TRADE

At Bunnings Trade, we’re here to help builders win at every stage. We strive to be a dependable partner for the building industry, with a knowledgeable and dedicated Trade Team offering efficient service and support. With our wide range of trade quality brands and the latest in innovative building solutions under one roof, Bunnings Trade has your business covered.

For support with your next job, talk to a Trade Team Member in store today.

www.bunnings.co.nz/trade

CARTERS BUILDING SUPPLIES

CARTERS believe in partnership. We know combined expertise and a focus on efficiency, pricing and supply mean a successful outcome. Shared success is key – when your business grows, so does ours. CARTERS nationwide chain of 50 building supply stores and nine manufacturing plants, long-established industry network and focus on the trade means we’re committed to you.

WINSTONE WALLBOARDS

Every day, passionate and dedicated people come together as an industry to build a brighter New Zealand, and Winstone Wallboards is proud to be part of the team. As the country’s only manufacturer and largest marketer of gypsum plasterboard, drywall systems and associated products and services, we’re locally based and locally made. With manufacturing facilities in Auckland and Christchurch and a new GIB® Plasterboard plant about to open in Tauranga, we’re on an exciting growth trajectory to meet the evolving needs of New Zealand’s booming construction sector.

www.carters.co.nz www.gib.co.nz

REGIONAL AWARDS

REGIONAL SUPREME WINNERS

Awarded to three Regional Supreme Award recipients from each regional event: House of the Year up to $1 million, House of the Year over $1 million, and Renovation of the Year.

PINK BATTS CRAFTSMANSHIP

Awarded to the entrant who attains the highest score out of the points available in the Workmanship section of the judging criteria.

REGIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARDS

Awarded to the entrant who attains the highest score in each Lifestyle category, including the APL Sustainable and Environmental Excellence Award and Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award.

GOLD

Awarded to builders whose entries achieve 90 per cent of the points available and are judged to be at least 80 per cent above industry standard.

BRONZE

Awarded to builders whose entries achieve 75 per cent of the points available and are judged to be at least 50 per cent above industry standard.

SAPPHIRE

Awarded to an entrant who has received three Regional Supreme Awards regardless of whether these homes are renovations or new builds.

REGIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

Awarded to the highest scoring Gold Award winner from each category.

SILVER

Awarded to builders whose entries achieve 82.5 per cent of the points available and are judged to be at least 65 per cent above industry standard.

REGIONAL SPECIAL AWARD

Bestowed by the judges when a house is worthy of special recognition.

COMFORTECH BUILDING PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS™

As Aotearoa New Zealand’s only manufacturer of glass-wool insulation, Pink® Batts® understands what it takes to build a healthy home here. We have been working alongside builders and industry stakeholders for more than 60 years and are proud to have warmed a multitude of NZ homes and hearts. We believe everyone deserves a healthy, dry, warm, safe and efficient home and we are committed to it for the next 60 years.

www.pinkbatts.co.nz

PLUMBING WORLD

Plumbing World has access to the world’s leading brands and the best Kiwi plumbers and builders in the industry. The products we showcase look amazing and are made to last and designed to perform. So come and see our team in black – they can totally advise you on the right home solutions.

RESENE

Resene has all the quality paints, stains, colour, wallpaper, curtains, accessories and professional advice you need to get a superb finish on your decorating projects, inside or out. Choose from thousands of Resene colours or let Resene create one for you. Resene has been proudly 100 per cent New Zealand owned and operated since 1946 and has been named the Most Trusted Paint since 2012.

www.plumbingworld.co.nz

APL WINDOW SOLUTIONS

APL Window Solutions is the largest window solutions organisation in New Zealand and has been proudly family owned and NZ Made for over 50 years. We know 35-50% of a home’s thermal performance comes from its windows and doors so our innovative window and door systems offer world-leading thermal performance that’s designed for our conditions and made right here, from start to finish. The future is here. Ready now.

www.resene.co.nz www.aplnz.co.nz/HOY

MASTER BUILD 10-YEAR GUARANTEE

The Master Build 10-Year Guarantee is New Zealand’s leading guarantee. More than 140,000 Kiwis have put their trust in it over the past 25 years and our range of products offer flexibility, including the ability to transfer cover to a new homeowner, should you sell. The best guarantee from the best builders.

www.masterbuilder.org.nz

HOUSE OF THE YEAR

To see all our award-winning homes, visit houseoftheyear.co.nz

RESENE NEW HOME $2 MILLION–$4 MILLION

NEW HOME $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION

CARTERS NEW HOME $1 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION

ALTUS WINDOW SYSTEMS NEW HOME $750,000–$1 MILLION

NEW HOME $500,000–$750,000

NEW HOME UP TO $500,000

VOLUME/GROUP HOUSING NEW HOME UP TO $500,000

VOLUME/GROUP HOUSING NEW HOME $500,000–$750,000

GIB SHOW HOME

MASTER BUILD 10-YEAR GUARANTEE MULTI-UNIT (APARTMENTS/DUPLEXES/TERRACE HOUSING)

BUILDER’S OWN HOME

RENOVATION UP TO $750,000

BUNNINGS RENOVATION $750,000–$1.5 MILLION

BUILDING YOUR DREAM

It’s no secret that there is a lot going on in the building sector right now, prompting many people to ask if it is still a good time to build? You might be surprised to hear that, yes, it is. Building never gets cheaper and as the current boom subsides, there will be greater opportunities to get your project underway. With good planning, preparation and communication, you can build your dream home. Here’s how:

Planning is essential

Working with the right builder is key. An accomplished builder will guide you through the design, consenting, construction and approvals stages, then build your dream home. Make sure you choose a builder you want to work with, and who has completed similar projects to yours. Speak with their previous clients and, if you have doubts, wait until you find the right person. A Master Builder will streamline the process, as each has been vetted and receives ongoing support and industry training. Communication is everything

Maintaining concise, consistent communication with a builder is vital. Set clear expectations around timing and budget and be honest about your needs and limits. This ensures both parties can flag any concerns. Building requires bringing together diverse skills and resources. Ask builders about their relationships with trade partners – a

Master Builder understands the importance of effective communication and relationships.

Contracts and legal advice

Get everything in writing and review your contract with a lawyer. Be realistic – if you receive a price that looks too good to be true, it probably is. Ensure your builder understands the market conditions and can discuss them with you. Most contracts have a clause for price fluctuations – discuss this with your builder and ensure you understand the risks. Be wary of fixed-price contracts as you may pay too much contingency. Conversely, too little contingency can create an even greater risk. Discuss a payment schedule with your builder to ensure you are not paying too much in advance and you have a fair allocation of risk.

Master Build 10-Year Guarantee

While most builds go smoothly, it pays to have protection. The Master Build 10-year Guarantee provides the best protection on the market and a process for resolving any issues in your building journey.

By following these steps you will have everything in place to make your dream home a reality.

For more helpful advice and to find a Master Builder, visit masterbuilder.org.nz

Our clients are our number one priority and we go the extra mile to make sure they’re completely satisfied.

With all the right steps in place, turning your residential dream into reality presents an exciting prospect and many rich rewards.

Like you, we’re proudly building for New Zealand.

Every day, passionate and dedicated professionals come together as an industry for the good of all New Zealanders. It’s something we’re proud to have been a trusted part of for over 90 years.

gib.co.nz/homeowner

SPACE Creative

Amelia Fagence crafts furniture and art with playful, yet enduring, appeal. You’ll find the Nelson-based maker’s work in homes and businesses the length of the country.

Tell us a little about your background and what led you to establishing your practice. I grew up in a creative household with full-time artist parents and my love for making started early on. With materials on hand and skills shared by my parents, sculpting and painting were the first mediums I explored and exhibited. After completing a Masters of Architecture at RMIT University, Melbourne, I moved home to Aotearoa and felt a strong urge to get back into creating with my hands. I started using timber in interior design and fit-outs and crafting sculptural art pieces from wood. This year has been my first as a full-time maker after establishing my practice, Amelia Fagence Design. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, so it feels a real privilege to do it every day. I call myself a maker, which encompasses being a designer and a woodworker, as it allows me to take on a range of creative projects without being restricted to just one discipline.

Is the role of ‘maker’ undergoing a renaissance?

Definitely. Quality craftsmanship and originality are becoming more valued and sought after, as we see a shift away from cheap and disposable design, for the sake of sustainability and longevity. It’s awesome to see people making more considered decisions when it comes to construction, homewares and other products.

How does your architectural background inform your design? It has influenced the way I think and experience a space and the components within. When approached by an architect to design timber elements of a new project, or a store owner to redesign and fit-out their store, I ensure I understand what the client requires and what’s already happening within the space and design.

You work across residential, retail and hospitality. What new commissions are you currently working on? Each commission presents different opportunities and challenges. One week I may be working on a single beautifully refined and detailed piece of furniture for

a client’s home, and the next I may be working on a complete interior design or fit-out, where the interior design stages are developed down to the last detailing, inclusive of making the dining tables and chairs.

I recently completed a solid macrocarpa bench seat for Public Record, a beautiful store in Auckland, where I also stock my smaller art pieces. The bench combines a sculptural carved form with traditional joinery, which looks amazing. I’m working on my newest collection of sculptural pieces, which will be showcased at The Refinery in Nelson from mid-January 2023.

You take a playful approach to your sculptural pieces. Tell us about the process of designing and making. They have an interactive quality, encouraging playfulness through balancing, stacking and the option of continuous rearrangement. They begin as a simple sketch of lines and shapes, which I then develop into the three-dimensional world through forming and carving solid wood. I have

also been developing furniture that encompasses a similar approach, with playful and movable components. You work with reclaimed and sustainably sourced timber. How else do you apply sustainability to your work? I’m always on the lookout for locally grown and naturally fallen timber. I love coming across beautiful pieces of storm-fallen macrocarpa or other trees that I cut up and dry. I attempt to leave the lightest footprint possible through sustainable material choices and processes and timeless design.

What inspires you about living and working in Nelson? I love meeting and connecting with other woodworkers, architects and designers – there’s a shared interest in wood and sustainability. It must be the lush streets and connectedness to the land that fuels sustainable design. ameliafagence.com

1. Amelia Fagence working on her lamp.

2. Bench seat for Public Record.

3. The early stages of a sculptural piece.

4. Walnut plinth bowls.

PHOTOGRAPHY AMELIA FAGENCE, ELLA KROCH, YUKA TRISTRAN AND MASAMI ONO

Check out what’s just landed in stores and what’s still turning heads

& INSPIRING New

GREAT BLOOMER

Colourful, cheerful and intriguing, these resin bowls are as much art as receptacles. Each piece is cast and finished by hand so no two pieces are exactly the same.

Petal bowls, $67 each , from Sage x Clare.

Sleepy time

Cosy up with beautiful bedding. Muted pinks and greens are blossoming again and midnight blue never goes out of style. Washed velvet quilted throws in clay, kale and midnight, $179 each, from Citta.

SIT UP & TAKE NOTICE

Inspired by the Marguerite daisy, this piece from Danish designer Sabine Stougaard is clever and practical. Warm Nordic Daisy stool/side table, $625, from Good Form.

Turning the tables

The original artwork in this 100 per cent linen cloth really lays it on the dining table. Team with napkins that complement, match or, as a talking point, provide a colourful contrast.

Bonnie and Neil Mini Marigold Multi tablecloth, $299, from Father Rabbit.

CHAISE YOUR DREAM

This sofa is as comfortable as it looks. With a low base and lots of loose cushions, it injects a laid-back vibe into a living room.

Cenova sofa in Forest Green Napoli fabric, $14,290, from BoConcept.

Kip & Co linen duvet cover in Roma Stripe, $375, from Tea Pea.

Barley cotton throw in green, $99.90, from Wallace Cotton.

TOTES AMAZING

This fun tote is practical, robust and versatile – take it to the beach or use it for shopping. Wherever you go, you’ll make a striping statement. Flat tote bag, $35, from Best Wishes.

SURE AS L

Strong lines and warm white oak are a winning combination. The L table, finished in clear matte lacquer, comes in three sizes, but custom options are also available L dining table narrow 1.8m, $6540, from Citta.

Stacks of appeal

These espresso cups are made in Japan and double as bowls for snacks, sauces, kids’ food and bite-sized desserts. The shape harks back to diners in 50s and 60s America and the colours are reminiscent of oldschool toy blocks.

Maruhiro Hasami Block mugs, $45 each, from Infinite/Definite.

BOOK CLUB

SIDESHOW

This solid oak cabinet with a rattan panel is ideal as a bedside table, but would be just as stylish next to a sofa.

Waiheke bedside table, $550, from The Axe. Shop

Hex appeal

If soft shades and dreamy florals aren’t your thing, go bold with something geometric. Team this hexagonal-design Resene wallpaper with various shades of deep green and natural wood. Timber flooring can be protected with clear Resene Aquaclear or Resene Qristal ClearFloor.

Resene Amazonia Wallpaper Collection 91280

You don’t have to leave the sofa to be inspired. These books take you into flourishing Kiwi gardens, a kitchen that does low-fuss, high-impact fusion food, and holiday houses in some of the country’s most scenic spots.

In the Company of Gardeners

Text by Sue Allison, photography by Juliet Nicholas

Published by RHNZ Godwit, RRP $49

Dwelling in the gardens of conservationists, food growers, botanists and artists offers inspiration aplenty. Discover some of the most interesting gardens in Aotearoa – a Cromwell dry garden, a Canterbury food forest, a subtropical jungle in K ā piti, a former whaling station in the Far North.

Small Holiday Houses by Catherine Foster

Published by Penguin, RRP $55

Architects and designers delve into their motivations and the opportunities afforded them by clients and the landscape. In evocative locations across the country, these homes are planned to deliver what you need for holiday living, without waste or excess. Plans, design notes, fact files and lists of products and materials will help you craft your own. Images are by leading photographers.

Mezcla by Ixta Belfrage

Published by Ebury Press, RRP $65

In Spanish, mezcla means mix, and in her first solo cookbook, Ottolenghi protege Ixta Belfrage shows she is the new name in fusion. Her “recipes to excite” are fuss-free and full of impact – chilli oyster mushroom skewers, giant cheese on toast with chilli butter, prawn lasagne with habanero oil, and whole roast chicken curry with crispy curry leaves are a few to tempt the taste buds.

TOMORROWS SLAB, TODAY

Leading the way in sustainability for others to follow.

With the upcoming H1 changes for slabs, no longer are foundations deemed to hold a minimum R-value of 1.3. A foundation must be calculated on its area to perimeter ratio to determine the floor’s R-value, this will then determine the level of insulation required. Most foundations will require edge insulation at the very minimum, and foundations with underfloor heating will require edge and base insulation.

Allied Concrete has H1 compliant and CodeMark certified slab solutions available, utilising READY SuperSlab, QuickSet and QPOD, and is committed to reducing embodied carbon with Allied e-crete.

To learn more please visit: www alliedconcrete co nz

Aotearoa calling

Looking for that special something? These pieces have been locally designed, crafted or both, and display the depth of talent in our own backyard

1. Lukeke Design Deflated Pendant, $750-$1400, from Black Door Gallery. 2. White Lines 3 plant pot by Lil Ceramics, $120, from Further Doings. 3. Fantail/Pīwakawaka, $325 , from Lukeke Design. 4. Te Toi o Ngā Rangi blanket, $429, from Noa Blanket Co. 5. Minimalist egg tray, $49, from Decor Handled. 6. Fauves Light landscape by Georgina Hoby Scutt, POA , from Turua Gallery. 7. Forest green wool throw, $309, from Foxtrot Home. 8. Tumblers by Galit Maxwell, $42 each , from The Axe. 9. Umber chair, from $5175 , from Treology. 10. Kanaami x Stone from Ori project no.5 by Kathy Barber, $350, from Public Record. 11. Ceramic citrus juicer by Gidon Bing, $69, from Everyday Needs. 12. Flower tote, $20, from The Art Room. 13. The Wave object holder, $36 each , from Creative Crete. 14. Elodie side table, $820, from Lloyd Brooke Furniture. 15. The Minimalist Emilee daybed by Beck Wadworth x David Shaw, POA , from David Shaw. 16. Whisky cabinet, POA , from Philbe Design 17. Leaf Your Cares Behind headboard, from $2139, from Miss Lolo. 18. Possum-merino Tempo scarf by Lothlorian, $119, from Folklore.

WALL centre

More than pure embellishment, paint and wallpaper shape the look and feel of your home. From mild to wild, explore the many options available

A happy blending

Get earthy by combining primal shapes with natural hues. This can be a leisurely, therapeutic project and, best of all, imperfections add to the charm. Wall in Resene Pumice and Resene Pewter; large pot and pendant in Resene Jurassic; small pot and rug in Resene Pewter.

WATER FEATURE

You don't have to be coastal to enjoy seaside sights. Let Resene Bunting (wall), Resene Takaka (headboard) and Resene Streetwise (left wall and jug) bring the coast to you. Hang beachy art, drape a throw and you can be wherever you want. If you do live by the beach, celebrate your good fortune with colours of the sea.

Go with the glow

Cocoon yourself in cosy hues that add warmth and instant ambience. Earthy shades and those with a touch of spice are an ideal backdrop for furnishings in neutral tones and natural materials – especially those with texture. This setting contrasts the main wall in Resene China Ivory with Resene Cape Palliser (right wall) and Resene Teak (floor).

RESENE Teak

RESENE Cape Palliser

Plissee floor lamp by Sebastian Herkner, $5200, from Matisse.

RESENE Pumice

Cabin Wool blanket in Mulberry/Multi, $299, from Citta.

RESENE Pewter Peperomia watermelon plant, $44.99, from Oderings.

Wall of the wild

Take an expedition into the jungle without leaving home. With these exotic wallpapers, you can almost feel the dense canopy teeming with sounds of tropical wildlife.

Outer space

Blur the lines between inside and out with rooms that flow from one to the other. Let natural hues take centre stage. Interior wall in Resene Miso; exterior wall in Resene Foggy Grey; floor in Resene Iroko; chair in Resene Turtle Green; pots in Resene Fawn Green, Resene Turtle Green and Resene Awol.

FACIAL RECOGNITION

How can something so intriguing also be so soothing. Perhaps it’s the continuous loose, looping lines that link the details, or it could be the combination of gentle hues that give a room depth without shouting it from the rooftops. Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt this Resene wallpaper excels as a feature wall.

STROKES OF GENIUS

If the artist within is itching to get out, get fired up with a paintbrush and Resene FX Paint Effects medium. This dreamy bedroom wall is painted in Resene Wax Flower with the brushstroke effect in Resene Cab Sav and Resene Scotch Mist mixed with the medium. It’s moody and dreamy.

Visit your local Resene ColorShop for colour and paint ideas and inspiration. Or use the free Ask a Resene Colour Expert service, www.resene.co.nz/colourexpert Colours are as close as printing process allows. Always view Resene testpots or colour charts before making your final choices.

Resene Amazonia Wallpaper Collection 91250.

Resene Amazonia Wallpaper Collection 91272.

RESENE Iroko

RESENE Foggy Grey

RESENE Miso

Resene Amazonia Wallpaper Collection 91260.

Edmund cushion cover, $109, from Citta.

RESENE Cab Sav RESENE Wax Flower

Helping you at every stage is our trade.

As proud supporters of Registered Master Builders House of the Year, and sponsors of the award for renovations from $750,000 to $1.5m, we know that to achieve excellent results you need great support. That’s why, at Bunnings Trade, we’re here to help builders every step of the way, from start to finish. Congratulations to all this year’s entrants and winners on a job well done.

OUTSIDE INSIDE

1. Kida hanging chair by Stephen Burks for Dedon, from $10,359, from Dawson & Co. 2. Brilliant White Davis LED Bunker Light, $26.48 , from Bunnings.

3. Jura Twin by Astro Lighting, $515 , from ECC. 4. Resene Denzo II Wallpaper Collection 833942 from Resene. 5. Malta armchair, $399, from Nood. 6. Maisie rug, from $335 from Miss Amara. 7. Laboheme outdoor ottoman, $329, from Freedom.

8. Sansevieria Laurentii snake plant, $36.99, from The Plant Project.

9. Bruno Cylinder planters, from $295 from Coco Republic. 10. Fold arch planter box, $349, from Made of Tomorrow.

Serene greens and natural textures enhance the sense of contemplative calm outdoors

Soft touch

Bring comfort to your living spaces with cosy colours, fun prints and inviting textures

1. Repose bedspread, $799, from BoConcept. 2. Pacific armchair by Patricia Urquiola, from $7570, from Matisse. 3. Altitude merino throw, and Franklin stripe cushion, $125, from Thread Design. 4. Design House of Stockholm knot, $360, from Slow Store. 5. Solano throw in amber, $169, from Weave. 6. Lavish Captain Dash cushion, $59, from Early Settler. 7. Icelandic sheepskin, $399.99, from A&C Homestore. 8. Globe cushion, $295 each , from Klay. 9. Ivy linen pillow case, $79.90, with linen queen duvet cover, $309, from Citta. 10. Shapes cushion, $75 , from The Art Room. 11. Kip&Co velvet beanbag, $169, from Moi on George.

Designing circularity into our business

APL is proud to sponsor the Sustainable and Environmental Excellence award in the 2022 Master Builders House of the Year competition.

Nearly half of the world’s total emissions are a consequence of the linear way we make, use and dispose of materials and products and less than 9% of the resources we use to build the world around us are cycled back for reuse. As industry leaders and innovators, we have both the opportunity and responsibility to address the rising need for large and sustainable change.

The future is here. Ready now. aplnz.co.nz/our-responsibility

For us, this starts at the design stage or as we like to think of it - the redesign stage. We’re committed to closing the loop on material flows, designing waste and pollution out of our system and regenerating our natural environments. Our future path is clear, creating a product in to your home or building that has made zero impact on our beautiful country.

The height of elegance

With Brancott Valley to the west and Cook Strait and Cloudy Bay to the east, this site enjoys myriad views – the objective was to make the most of them, while creating protection on the exposed site. Architecture ensures everything has been accomplished.

The impressive four-bedroom home hunkers into its elevated site, while celebrating the vistas and making them an integral part of this rich offering.

The three gabled forms are arranged in a U shape to create multiple outdoor areas. The southern concrete-block courtyard defines the entry and is the most sheltered of the outside spaces. Beautiful dark standing-seam Colorsteel and timber cladding give the exterior balance and texture. A soft palette provides a warm, inviting transition to the interior, and establishes cohesion throughout.

The fireplace separates the entertaining area from one of retreat.

There’s grandeur in the lofty cedar-lined ceilings, with timber floors and polished precast concrete panels adding richness and depth.

A double-sided fireplace anchors the 391sqm house to its site and separates the entertaining area from a retreat. The generously sized bedroom and service wings provide privacy when family and guests are staying. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

George Guthrie Construction BLENHEIM

M 021 427 378 • E admin@ggconstruction.co.nz

W www.ggconstruction.co.nz

Modern history

No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. This house in one of Wellington’s heritage suburbs is brand new. The exterior is designed to reflect and respect its neighbourhood, and every effort has been taken to ensure period proportions and scale have been matched – while also complying with today’s building regulations.

The poor condition of the original 1890s villa and a 1960s plaster garage meant demolition; a complicated process due to the proximity of neighbours. Extensive earthworks were needed, as was the construction of temporary soldier pile walls down two boundaries to retain neighbouring properties. Concrete piles were

placed under a thermally broken slab to ensure this home is here to stay.

The interior is a highly crafted balance of traditional design features – think plastered cornices, panelled walls and deep skirting boards – with elements and materials you’d expect in a contemporary home.

Modern comforts include embedded heating in the thermally isolated concrete slab and a smart ventilation system. This home is a stellar example of how you can build in a traditional style but ensure every contemporary comfort has been accounted for. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

• Wellingtons largest domestic hydronic heating installer

• 40 years staff experience

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• Pipeline are proud to be associated with this home. www.pipeline.net.nz

Let the flow begin

The covered outdoor kitchen and lounge is an impressive destination for get-togethers with friends and family or for quiet meals. It’s designed to be both a hub for entertaining and a sanctuary from which to soak in the scenery.

Meticulous workmanship is on display throughout the 305sqm home, and each space flows intuitively to the next. The confluence of contrasting materials such

as flecked concrete, white kitchen cabinetry and timber is neutral and natural. But this house has more than just clever design and top-notch craftsmanship. It’s also a stellar example of self-sustainability – it harvests its own water, processes its own waste and produces enough power to run the home, plus extra to charge a battery pack. What more could you possibly want? For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Contemporary Homes

NELSON

M 021 412 422 • E paul@contemporaryhomes.nz

W www.contemporaryhomes.nz

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID CHADWICK

Meticulous workmanship is on display, and each space flows intuitively to the next.

EST. SINCE 2010

Oh you pretty wings

The four pavilions that form this high-end Upper Hutt home express their own character and purpose. Elegant design unites them beautifully and the overall effect is one of contemporary cohesion.

Inspiration for the four-bedroom L-shaped residence came from the pavilion-style homes often found in the deep south. The 327sqm main house stretches out in a long line, while the garage sits at a perpendicular angle.

Going the extra mile for all of our clients is at the heart of our business.

The central pavilion and surrounding links contain the living spaces. The open-plan kitchen, dining and living area is flanked by a lounge and an outdoor room that faces the setting sun.

The timber-lined outdoor room is equipped with every accoutrement for entertaining, including a wine fridge. The warm timber and neutral tones in this space reflect the exterior and hues of the rural surrounds.

Extensive glazing throughout the home allows light to play across the variety of wood used. Deep timber-lined skylights in the outdoor and indoor kitchens drop natural light into both spaces. A pavilion at one end of the house contains the main bedroom, and a wing at the other end has three bedrooms and a family bathroom. There’s so much to enjoy here, including the craftsmanship. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Design Builders (Wellington) WELLINGTON

M 027 462 7220 • E mark.davidge@designbuilders.co.nz

W www.designbuilders.co.nz

There is so much to enjoy in this immaculately designed and crafted residence.

RUBY BAY

Jewel in the crown

When you’re lucky enough to own a flat section with commanding views of Tasman Bay, the house you build deserves to be something special. It’s certainly the case with this easy-living four-bedroom stunner that puts those sweeping sea vistas front and centre.

The generous entrance gives the first glimpse of the enviable view, and separates the two wings of the 439sqm house. To the left is an entertainer’s delight

The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail offers much to admire.

– a streamlined kitchen and walk-in pantry with high-end cabinetry and stone benchtops. Skylights drop natural light into this contemporary European-style setting. Two spacious living areas adjoin the kitchen – one is a tucked-away space for quiet lounging, the other features a fireplace and views. A family room and a covered patio with two skylights complete this area. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail is clear.

The other wing comprises a main-bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite with separate toilet, tiled shower and a freestanding bath that soaks up spectacular views. The second and third bedrooms share a bathroom, while a fourth, with an ensuite, is ideal for staying guests. A laundry, two double garages, one with a workshop, complete this wing. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Mike Greer Homes NELSON

T 03 544 7873 • E nelson@mikegreerhomes.co.nz

W www.mikegreerhomes.co.nz

Laser Plumbing Nelson

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TASMAN

Euro-style & eco-friendly

This 257sqm home sits handsomely against a backdrop of green landscaping and the beautiful blue ocean beyond. Looking striking in contrasting vertical cedar cladding and black fixtures, clean lines are a signature of this sophisticated stunner.

The European-style minimalist interior showcases a refined blend of oak and glass, which partners perfectly with Italian tiles and fittings.

Generous glazing throughout opens up living spaces to uninterrupted water views, and lets natural light flow in from every angle. The wraparound hardwood deck segues seamlessly from interior floorboards. Sustainability was a key focus in the building of this three-bedroom house. Energy-efficient heat pumps, underfloor heating, and quality insulation in the ceiling and walls keep every room warm, as does the attractive

5-star energy-rated double-sided fireplace – a feature of the main living area. A 10kw solar-power system feeds the heat pump’s hot-water system, while LED lighting and an induction hob also help minimise energy use. Even when it’s raining, this home is earning its keep: all rainwater is collected in three large underground tanks, while all wastewater is processed on the property. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Ruby Bay Construction NELSON

M 027 395 3030 • E neil@rubybayconstruction.co.nz

W www.rubybayconstruction.co.nz

Inside, the refined European-style minimalist interior showcases oak and glass.

BRONTE

Ever so appealing

Set on an apple orchard in Mapua, this three-bedroom home is a showcase of refined rural living. Clad in Linea weatherboard with board-and-batten features, the exterior is in harmony with the lovely farmland and Waimea Inlet setting.

Stepping inside, the modern farmhouse design unfolds and the layout ensures the water views are on show. The

kitchen, at the heart of the home, is positioned for the chef to enjoy those captivating water views. From here, taking meals outdoors is just a few easy steps. The large scullery includes a wine fridge and ample storage.

The interior aesthetic is enhanced with features such as the schist fireplace surround in the main lounge. A shuttered dividing wall in the dining area can be closed to provide intimacy or kept open to connect with the living space and views beyond.

The three large bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two living areas all enjoy privacy, while also providing unrivalled views. The scenery is on show from various outdoor spaces, including a portico that’s set up for all-weather entertaining. The kwila decks are a pleasure underfoot and on the eye.

Warmth, comfort and style are all accommodated. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

NELSON

T 03 544 4390

E nelson@jennian.co.nz

W www.jennian.co.nz

Jennian Homes Nelson Bays

Nouveau villa luxe

With an abundance of old-world charm and character, this new build could easily be mistaken for a perfectly executed villa restoration. With classic bay windows, an elegant roofline and wraparound verandahs, the 231sqm three-bedroom home blends the elegance of yesteryear with modern materials and comforts.

As you step onto the verandah, the bold black front door features leadlight windows with gold accents – a hint of the luxury that awaits inside. The hallway is lined with wainscotting and leads through a decorative archway into the bespoke, Shaker-style kitchen complete with a butler’s sink. Not only does this room look stunning

with timber flooring, white cabinetry and gold tapware, it’s also designed for modern practicality. There’s plenty of storage and a central island.

Demonstrating that every detail has been considered in this home, the main bathroom features scene-setting wallpaper, gold tapware and marble surfaces. Taking centre stage is a clawfoot bath.

With boiserie panels lining the walls, the main suite has gone the extra mile in style. As a contemporary addition, the walk-in wardrobe brings it all up to date.

Two living areas round out the generous offering. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

For ideas and information about our windows and doors talk to Fairview Wairarapa on 0800 000 088. aswindows.co.nz

Every detail has been considered in this home, including the scene-setting wallpaper.

Heritage Homes

WELLINGTON

M 027 665 9674 • E wellington@heritagehomes.nz

W www.heritagehomes.co.nz

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Testpots from top left: Resene Coconut Cream, Resene Ravine, Resene Frontier, Resene China Ivory, Resene Yuma and Resene Blank Canvas.

Hilltop highlight

This previously unassuming, sloping site in Richmond is now making something of a statement. With twin gables and a connecting entrance pavilion forming an H shape, the Stonewood home stands out from its neighbours. With a boardwalk, water feature and landscaping, the arrival sequence establishes a sense of anticipation. Expectations are met once inside the entrance, which connects with valley views through full-height glazing.

Overlooking the valley, the views extend out to Tasman Bay and beyond.

The five-bedroom home spreads across 230sqm and enjoys spacious indoor and outdoor living. The main form wraps the outdoor living area, providing shelter and maximising views. Inside, two generous living areas are divided by a double-sided glass-screened gas fire. The kitchen delivers the homeowners’ dreams, with a double oven, wine fridge and scullery.

The layout balances lavish entertaining and comfortable living. The main bedroom is an equally lavish affair, featuring its own fireplace, a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite with a freestanding bath and double shower. Glass sliders open up to a deck and expansive views. The crisp-white rendered cladding is striking in contrast to the black roof, base and feature trusses. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Stonewood Homes

NELSON

T 03 541 0640 • E brent.stewart@stonewood.co.nz

W www.stonewood.co.nz

Delight in the detail

This build on a tricky site required a keen eye for detail and a high level of skill. It’s clear from the three-bedroom home built into a slope that the construction team was more than up to the task. It’s a stunner.

Much thought and organisation went into the 191sqm house to ensure living spaces had a north-facing aspect and outdoor spots could be created to enjoy both sun and shade. To achieve these goals, the garage was built on top of the ground floor.

The open-plan kitchen, living and dining area was designed to capture views that draw the eye down the valley to Nelson and the sea beyond. The hallway is wider

than usual to accommodate a study nook or another couch and a book case. Further down the hall, the ceiling is lifted to open up the space and add storage.

Built on piles, the two-bathroom house has lowmaintenance cladding with cedar accents around the outdoor living spaces. It was labour intensive thanks to myriad roof angles, but has strong street appeal. Brad Dewe managed the build and his skills are evident, especially in the decking on and around the retaining wall. Sustainability measures include an EV charger and the use of polystyrene offcuts salvaged from another job. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Smartly addressed

In a region that enjoys stunning national parks and ample sunshine hours, there’s much to enjoy here. And with homes such as this one in recently developed Katania Heights, the region just got better.

The contemporary design has a 215sqm footprint that easily accommodates four bedrooms and spacious interior living. Timber decking and a pool take the good times outdoors, where the views are there to soak up.

The design generates a dynamic profile, with a skillion roof playing out its dramatic geometry. Add to that the contrasting black weatherboard and white plaster cladding, and there’s ample street appeal.

With panoramic views to enjoy over the Brightwater Ranges, the interior has been styled to elegantly recede. The monochrome theme pairs whitewashed walls and ceilings with black cabinetry and detailing. Engineered

The skillion roof and crisp monochrome cladding create contemporary drama.

timber flooring adds warmth to the equation. The sleek kitchen is a handsome showcase of black with matte cabinetry and appliances, and a waterfall island bench. Large-format bronze tiles form the splashback, adding texture and contrast to the setting.

The boxed-out gas fireplace with a black V-groove surround adds character to the living area. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Homes by Orange NELSON

T 03 543 9002 • E hello@homesbyorange.co.nz

W www.homesbyorange.co.nz

Envision Aluminium is one of Marlborough’s leading manufacturers of window and door system. NEW HOME $500,000–$750,000

03 573 5568 OR 027 433 2040 plumber@bbpg.co.nz

Complete package

Here’s a home that expertly balances good looks, clever use of space, environmental friendliness and running costs. It all comes in an inviting 171sqm package that feels much more spacious than its footprint suggests. The timber exterior settles the home into its rural environment, with the Richmond Ranges as a backdrop. These views are welcomed into the two-bedroom, two-bathroom home through sliders and windows.

We are proud licensed manufacturer and suppliers of Vantage aluminium joinery.

Inside, you’re greeted with high ceilings and open-plan living areas that make the most of the vistas. Timber is a recurring feature – you’ll find Japanese cedar lining the lounge ceiling and a feature wall in the main bedroom. These, along with wood tones in the kitchen cabinetry, engender a feeling of natural warmth.

The natural approach continues – this off-grid home has been cleverly designed to maximise the sun.

Aluminium joinery to the north invites winter rays into the main living area and bedrooms where heat is absorbed and released by polished concrete floors.

This passive energy, teamed with wool-fibre insulation and a fireplace, keeps things toasty and negates the need for additional heating. Hot water is provided by the wetback fire in winter and solar panels in summer. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Townley Construction

MARLBOROUGH

M 021 0285 8416 • E info@townleyconstruction.co.nz

W www.townleyconstruction.co.nz

This off-grid home has been cleverly designed to maximise the sun’s rays.

James Design, make and fit cabinetry for: ● Kitchens ● Laundries ● Vanities ● Wardrobes

Neal Joinery Ltd Joiner Helping you win at every stage. HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2022 49

Access all areas

This beautiful home needed to be accessibility friendly, and the Jennian team accommodated by modifying their Waikaremoana plan to fit the owners’ requirements. The revised format included widening the central corridor and doors, installing handles at wheelchair height, creating level entries from all external doors, tweaking the ensuite and building an accessible wardrobe.

The home is a triumph of practicality and comfort, flow and design. With high-spec fixtures and appliances, and a few bold touches, it also has plenty of personality.

Throw open the sliding doors and spacious living becomes even more impressive, thanks to level-entry covered decking. This is a great place to enjoy alfresco living in park-like surrounds.

The four bedroom 245sqm home also features an internally accessed double garage and separate laundry.

In terms of the exterior, rustic handmade Sandalford bricks and James Hardie Linea Oblique features are perfectly complemented by a classic tiled roof. Along with the easy-care landscaped front garden, there’s plenty of street appeal.

For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Jennian Homes West Coast WESTPORT

T 03 789 5050

M 027 632 3808

E frank.o’toole@jennian.co.nz

W www.jennian.co.nz

For ideas, advice, and information about our windows and doors talk to Shearmac Aluminium on 0800 509 509

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Across Wellington, Wairarapa, Nelson, Marlborough and the West Coast, Master Built buildings are all around us – they are the places where we live our lives. Living is better when it happens in a quality, fit for purpose building. Find a Master Builder today to make your living better.

For more information visit: masterbuilder.org.nz

Building a Better New Zealand

Inspired by the classic Australian beach house, this three-bedroom home is an early occupant in the developing suburb of Hope. Taking pride of place on an elevated section, the twin gable frontage and striking palette of white-on-white make a bold impression.

Designed in an H shape, its two pavilions provide a sheltered entry to the home. Leading to the front door, a kwila deck extends a warm invitation. Inside, panelled feature walls recall the home’s coastal inspiration. At 184sqm, this impressive home delivers over and above its modest budget. White, bright and light-filled, the three-bedroom, two-bathroom residence feels

generous and spacious. Volume is amplified by a high scissor-truss ceiling that extends from the open-plan kitchen, dining and living space, then out over an alfresco area and kwila deck. Connecting to the south-eastern pavilion, the deck has a private link to the main bedroom through a ranch slider.

The kitchen is crisp in white and the generous pantry is a bonus. The tiled family bathroom provides understated elegance with a freestanding bath, floor-to-ceiling windows, terrazzo-style tiles, and brushed nickel tapware. For this new home in Hope, life is a beach. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Let me entertain you

A holiday home with as many features as possible was the client’s brief. They wanted efficient use of space, and for the 145sqm getaway to be set up for entertaining.

One look confirms this three-bedroom home is indeed designed for get-togethers, and has a few style statements that will prove conversation starters. The larch-clad portico provides cause for pause and comment – it’s an elegant design detail that follows

the roofline from the open-plan kitchen, dining and living area. Decking stretches beyond the portico across the width of the cedar-clad house.

Inside, polished concrete floors provide hard-wearing and enduring style – just what you need in a laidback holiday home – and also serve as a heat sink. A window seat is an inviting place to read in the sun, and on winter nights there’s a woodburner to cosy up to. The media

room, which includes a mini bar, is a great place to retreat behind sliding barn doors.

The main bedroom features a tiled ensuite and has direct access to the spa pool through a sliding door.

The modest footprint works hard to deliver everything the owners need, while sophisticated lines elevate the home to a cut-above the predictable. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Sentinel Homes Wellington WELLINGTON/WAIRARAPA/K Ā PITI

M 027 557 3111 • E hayden.rau@sentinelhomes.co.nz

W www.sentinelhomes.co.nz

One look confirms this house is made for get-togethers, and has extras aplenty.

For ideas and information about our windows and doors talk to Fairview Wairarapa on 0800 000 088. aswindows.co.nz

Blue ribbon residence

This house has undeniable street presence with its blue exterior, decorative metal screen and strong gable form. Step inside, and the rest of the 171sqm home is set up to be just as eye-catching. The blue-and-white kitchen is streamlined, thanks to handle-free cabinetry, and a walk-in pantry with ample storage for food and appliances. Features such as the tiled splashback,

pendant lights and a breakfast bar inject character and personality.

The open-plan living area encompasses the dining space and extends seamlessly through large sliders to private sun-soaked decks, one of which has a pergola for shade. These areas are ideal for dining and relaxing with friends and family.

Walk down the hallway and you’ll come to two good-sized bright and airy bedrooms and a family bathroom with a bath and tiled shower. At the end of the hall, the generous main bedroom includes a large walk-in wardrobe and ensuite.

A single garage with internal access completes this welcoming home.

For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

T 06 370 0777

E wairarapa@jennian.co.nz

W www.jennian.co.nz

Sleek, ultra-modern and with a plunge pool, this threebedroom house covers every base. From the outside, the 204sqm residence is all clean lines and handsome dark features punctuated with timber accents. Inside, the theme continues within light and airy spaces, thanks to raking ceilings, a pale wall palette and sliders that encourage the Marlborough sunshine inside.

A decorative cedar screen separates the entry from the living space, which features a raking window. Stepping into the living area, the window seat offers just the spot to bask in the sun with a book in hand.

The matching engineered stone benchtops and splashback set the scene in the kitchen, which has contrasting dark cabinetry, a gas cooktop, integrated dishwasher and engineered timber floors. A trio of pendant lights illuminates the island bench.

Rooms are linked by a central hall, which is bathed in light thanks to two skylights. Two bathrooms, including an ensuite, have fully tiled showers. You’ll also find a snug/office, separate toilet, laundry and garage. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Bruce Palmer

PinkFit® installer – Marlborough

Phone: 0800 746 534

Email: marlborough@pinkfit.co.nz

2022 JADA Best Kitchen and Supreme Award Winners

SPRINGLANDS Nelson Design Studio Ph 03 544 0087 6 Tokomaru Pl, Stoke info@baysjoinery.co.nz www.baysjoinery.co.nz

Pink® Batts® installer to Jennian Homes

Jennian Homes

Marlborough

BLENHEIM

T 03 578 2017

E marlborough@jennian.co.nz

W www.jennian.co.nz

lloyd@lloydsdrainage.co.nz

www.lloydsdrainage.co.nz

HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2022 57

Mobile: 027 447 7379

Love at first sight

Initial impressions matter, and the first glimpse of this 203sqm home suggests you’re in for something smart and stylish, with engaging points of difference. At the outset, the stone-bagged schist exterior and superior landscaping combine to set the home apart. While the street appeal is evident, clever design and positioning on the 620sqm section ensure privacy for the residents.

M Ā PUA

The light and airy entrance is welcoming and draws visitors into the kitchen, complete with a large walk-in pantry. Extensive dining, living, lounge and outdoor areas provide a number of spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Large windows and sliders invite sunlight and fresh air inside, and with a neutral colour palette throughout, relaxed sophistication abounds. You’ll find four bedrooms, a family bathroom with tiled shower, and

separate toilet. The main-bedroom suite is off the entry, away from the hustle of family life. This space – with a tiled ensuite and walk-in wardrobe – has direct access to the deck, which is sheltered on three sides. A separate laundry is accessed from the entrance and leads to the double garage. From its good looks to good living, this home ticks every box. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Mike Greer Homes

NELSON

T 03 544 7873 • E nelson@mikegreerhomes.co.nz

W www.mikegreerhomes.co.nz

Street appeal is clear, while clever design and positioning ensure privacy for the owners.

Discerning design

This stunning 221sqm home was architecturally designed for its discerning owners. Moving from a rural property, the couple wanted their home to deliver quality craftsmanship, privacy and multi-purpose spaces. Each has been achieved with style and skill.

The exterior of the handsome home is the first hint of quality evident throughout. A sophisticated partnering

of cedar and attractive black weatherboards sets the scene. As you step inside, the light-filled and luxurious living spaces are inviting. A double-sided gas fire contributes to the comfort factor.

The main bedroom is equally impressive with an extra-large ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. The two other bedrooms are serviced by a bathroom that can also serve as an ensuite. One bedroom is set up for the owners to use as a hobby room and workspace, with shelving and a built-in desk.

The main bedroom, kitchen, dining and living spaces all open out to a central decked area, which allows light to flood in and creates fantastic outdoor flow. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Jennian Homes Nelson Bays

NELSON

T 03 544 4390

E nelson@jennian.co.nz

W www.jennian.co.nz

SPRINGLANDS

Putting it all on show

Some homes just love to show themselves off, and this beauty is no exception. From its eye-catching angular rooflines to the crisp finish on the entry wall, this three-bedroom home was built to be the best in design, materials and craftsmanship.

The main bedroom has been given an extra touch of luxe with a feature tray ceiling that combines with grey

walls for a timeless aesthetic. The tiled ensuite offers a luxurious retreat with its own freestanding bath.

In the kitchen, stylish dark cabinetry is complemented with touches of brushed brass tapware and handles. A spacious scullery, stone benchtops and high-end appliances – including an integrated rangehood and double oven – make this space a pleasure to work in.

An entire corner of the kitchen and living area opens out to decking. With a pergola to protect against the elements, this area can be used as an additional living space throughout the year.

Adding convenience to this desirable home, the 252sqm floorplan also includes a hobbies room, a large family bathroom, a separate living area, and an internally accessed double garage.

For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Jennian Homes

Marlborough

BLENHEIM

T 03 578 2017

E marlborough@jennian.co.nz

W www.jennian.co.nz

Bruce Palmer

PinkFit® installer – Marlborough

Mobile: 027 447 7379

Phone: 0800 746 534

Email: marlborough@pinkfit.co.nz

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BRIGHTWATER

Commanding presence

Located on a substantial section overlooking the Waimea Plains, this Katania Heights show home is a thoroughly contemporary design that creates a commanding presence in the landscape.

It’s also wonderfully situated to make the most of its stunning views. Through three sets of large sliding doors, the primary living area extends outdoors where a sizeable deck presides over the expansive panorama.

Sweeping around the eastern exterior, a sizeable deck presides over an expansive panorama.

With three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a media room, the innovative design maximises the home’s 176sqm. Natural light pours into the interior through large windows and skylights. A large skylight enlivens the entrance and the bright open-plan kitchen, living and dining area encourages a sense of space. Style and craftsmanship offer plenty for the discerning eye to take in, both inside and outside. The entrance is

flanked by the home’s twin gables – a key design move that generates the bold form. The combination of dark cladding and vertical cedar makes another striking statement in style.

Off the deck, a recessed fire pit provides a convivial place for hosting and family time. The carpeted garage contains the laundry and also provides attic storage. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Homes by Orange NELSON

T 03 543 9002 • E hello@homesbyorange.co.nz

W www.homesbyorange.co.nz

A suite treat awaits

This show home is a showstopper, cleverly designed to meet subdivision requirements yet provide expansive private living within 244sqm.

The smart and stylish white Rockcote plaster cladding is offset with cedar and schist features. Sitting between two pavilions is a welcoming entranceway that invites you down the wide Kwila boardwalk and into the lobby.

The pavilion-style layout allows for the separation of living and sleeping areas. To one side, the light and luxurious main suite is simply sublime with high ceilings and sliders that open up an entire wall to a Kwila-decked outdoor area. But wait… there’s more. Another wall

slider connects to the ultimate ensuite. This large, lovely space offers up a freestanding bath, twin vanity and fully tiled shower. A feature wall of vertical timber tiles blends with the earthy tones of the floor tiles, culminating in sophisticated warmth. The large walk-in wardrobe has ample storage and room for a dressing table.

In a crisp white finish, the kitchen continues the theme of light and luxury with a large scullery and island bench.

The main living space opens outdoors to a decked and covered dining area complete with a gas fire to enjoy cosy nights.

For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

4 Brilliant Place, Stoke, Nelson P: 03 547 5454 E: nelson@designwindows.co.nz www.designwindows.co.nz

The light and spacious living area connects to an alfresco dining area complete with a gas fire.

Jennian Homes Nelson Bays

NELSON

T 03 544 4390

E nelson@jennian.co.nz

W www.jennian.co.nz

Proud to work alongside JENNIAN

Unit 1, 750 Lower Queen St, Richmond P. 03 544 8059 tasmanbayplumbing.co.nz

Gasfitters

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HOMES

MASTER BUILD 10-YEAR GUARANTEE MULTI-UNIT (APARTMENTS/DUPLEXES/TERRACE HOUSING)

On what was a brownfield site zoned for intensification, you’ll now find seven high-end white villas. This little village has delivered much-needed Nelson housing without impinging on greenfield space. It also puts residents close to the community, amenities and public transport. Each villa has a north-facing landscaped patio to take advantage of the sun, a monopitch roof and a

cladding combination of plaster and cedar that smartly delineates individual homes. The overall effect is one of cohesion.

Inside, the spacious contemporary kitchen connects with indoor and outdoor living areas. The two bedrooms have their own ensuite, and the laundry is located within the internal-access garage. A neutral palette allows residents to add their own colour and style.

The design and construction of these homes was driven by best practice and sustainability. Materials such as native timber, floorboards and weatherboards from the old property on the site were reused or sold.

The need for heating and cooling systems was minimised thanks to higher-than-required insulation and a concrete floor pod system. It’s all here, in seven attractive and sustainable packages. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Design Windows Nelson is proud to be associated with SCOTT CONSTRUCTION 4 Brilliant Place, Stoke, Nelson P: 03 547 5454 E: nelson@designwindows.co.nz www.designwindows.co.nz REGISTERED MASTER BUILDERS 66

NELSON

T 03 547 9469

E info@scotts.nz • W www.scottconstruction.co.nz

RICHMOND Proud to be the chosen supplier for Scott Construction of building materials and frame and truss. 36 Pascoe Street, Nelson PH 548 5487 www.building.supplies.co.nz

Scott Construction

A slice of paradise

Ask the owners of this 236sqm residence about their new abode and they’ll tell you, “we have it all!”. Wrapped by 360-degree views of well-established bush and rolling green hills, the four-bedroom home is quite simply their dream come true.

The smart cladding is perfectly partnered by cedar weatherboards and schist feature columns. As you walk

through the inviting entrance, exposed aggregate floors lead to the heart of the home. The open-plan living, dining and kitchen area is positioned to capture the idyllic views. Large stacker sliding doors lead to an expansive hardwood deck and outdoor living.

Looking handsome in black, the kitchen features soft-touch cabinetry, stone benchtops and a scullery.

Positioned at one end of the house, the main suite is luxurious in size with a walk-in wardrobe, tiled ensuite and deck access. At the other end, three spacious double bedrooms all offer their own unique outlook.

The home has a large second bathroom with a freestanding bath, family room and a ducted heat-pump system for a cosy living environment. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

For ideas, advice, and information about our windows and doors talk to Shearmac

Handsome home base

After years of crafting houses for others, this was a chance for the builder to create something for his own family. He drew on his depth of experience to choose the best materials and methods to suit the task at hand. For example, the exterior pits the rawness of concrete tilt panels against the warmth of vertical cedar. While starkly different, they work together beautifully.

The floorplan of the 385sqm house is designed with the family’s lifestyle in mind. With two home-schooled children, much time is spent in the house. As a result, the design provides volume, light and seamless indooroutdoor flow from main living areas and bedrooms.

The kitchen, dining and living area is harmonious in timber, white and charcoal tones. Plywood panels and dark grey line the ceilings, and skylights let sunlight pour in. The hues are natural, but the combination is striking. You’ll find flourishes of colour elsewhere – in wallpaper in the bathrooms and powder room, and on the painted walls of the bedrooms.

The plan is for this four-bedroom house to be the one the children grow up in, so there’s room for them as they mature into young adults. There is plenty of outdoor space for them, too, as well as for gardens to grow. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

E blenheim.admin@smithandsons.co.nz

W www.smithandsons.co.nz

You deserve peace of mind with the Master Build 10-Year Guarantee

Our market leading Guarantee has been developed in New Zealand for New Zealand families. It has protected more than 140,000 Kiwi homes over the last 25 years. Only a Registered Master Builder can offer you the peace of mind of a Master Build 10-Year Guarantee.

Registered Master Builders have been building quality homes for more than a century. But very occasionally, even for the best builders, something can go wrong. Choosing to work with a Registered Master Builder helps prevents this and a Master Build 10-Year Guarantee gives you even more peace of mind and is an essential part of any build.

David Kelly, Chief Executive of the Registered Master Builders Association, points out that the Master Build 10-Year Guarantee provides much greater protection than both the Building Act and the Consumer Guarantees Act, which only apply if the building company that carried out your building work is still around when your problem happens. While most building projects will run smoothly, sometimes things do go wrong.

Mr Kelly says the Guarantee provides protection to resolve those issues and enables us to support the homeowner to get their home finished to the highest standard.

What are the benefits of the Master Build 10-Year Guarantee?

The protection provided by our Guarantee gives you peace of mind, but it also makes good financial sense.

• If something does go wrong with your build, your Guarantee kicks in and we will step in to help you get your home finished to the highest standard

• It adds value to your property

• It’s fully transferable if you decide to sell

• It helps finance your build, as most banks require it

• It costs around 1% of the total build cost to protect your biggest investment.

Giving homeowners peace of mind for over 25 years. Building a house or doing a major renovation is a big deal, it is probably the biggest investment of your lifetime, so it makes sense to protect it with a Master Build 10-Year Guarantee.

Whether you are building a new home or renovating the one you already have, make sure you ask your builder for a Master Build 10-Year Guarantee – it’s peace of mind, guaranteed.

TheMasterBuild Multi-Unit 10-YearGuarantee

Multi-Unit

10-YearYourMasterBuild GuaranteeProtectingyourbiggestinvestment

You are covered for:

Loss of Deposit and Non-Completion:

While you’re still building our Guarantee protects your deposit and covers you for non-completion and remedial work (you can choose to opt out of this cover).

Workmanship and Materials: Your project is covered for defects in workmanship and materials for two years after your building work is completed.

Structural Defects: You’re protected for any structural defects including weathertightness issues (rot and fungal decay) for 10 years from the date your Guarantee is accepted.

Temporary Accommodation:

If your home is unable to be lived in after it has been completed as a result of the damage in your claim, you will be covered for costs and expenses relating to removal, storage and alternative accommodation to a maximum value of $10,000.

Give yourself peace of mind and protect your biggest investment.

MĀPUA

Character building

It’s a tricky assignment: restore an old fisherman’s cottage to become a bright and airy home that still retains its original charm.

Ruby Bay Construction successfully rose to the challenge, linking the three-bedroom 256sqm house to its past, but leaving no obvious signs of renovation.

How did they do it? Much of the home’s beautiful rimu timber was restored and reintroduced into detailing such

as architraves, skirting and door jambs. Original doors were restored and new ones custom made to match. New bedrooms and a living space were built and a sunlit corridor now connects the home to a 20-year-old garage. The main living areas feature a delightful combination of white and wood – so simple and natural. Skylights usher in natural light, as do French doors that connect seamlessly to new decking.

This bespoke restoration retains original charm and provides a warm haven for the family.

A ducted heat pump provides warmth, while thick insulation in the ceilings and the new and renovated walls prevents it escaping.

Located beside an estuary, this revamped cottage is now a warm, dry modern home for a growing family, and is still packed with character. The construction team is very proud of the result. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Ruby Bay Construction

NELSON

M 027 395 3030 • E neil@rubybayconstruction.co.nz

W www.rubybayconstruction.co.nz

RIWAKA

Country and comfort

If these walls could talk they’d tell quite the renovation tale. When builders started work on this 1900s house with a 1990s extension, they found minimal insulation, draughty timber windows, some rot and a “slightly dodgy floor” out the back.

The latter necessitated demolition, but also gave the owners a blank canvas to work with. The front of the weatherboard house, however, could remain relatively

unchanged. The major challenge was to sympathetically blend old and new, which the solid oak floor does with sublime style. The renovation also involved making the house warm, and building a wraparound verandah in keeping with the home’s character and its rural setting. The result has exceeded the clients’ expectations. There are 40sqm of verandah and decking here, much of it covered, rooms have been opened up, and glazed

Doors invite the light inside and encourage the residents outside to the verandah.

doors invite light inside while encouraging the residents outdoors. It’s a delightful house for entertaining.

You’ll also find three bedrooms, including a main suite with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe.

As for maintaining the soul of the property, two stained-glass windows, the front door, architraves, skirting and timber-panelled ceiling have all been retained. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Craig Finnie Builders

NELSON

M 021 669 484 • E info@craigfinniebuilders.co.nz

W www.craigfinniebuilders.co.nz

Mead and Martin is synonymous with quality customised timber projects. We specialise in timber profiles for building and renovations; our services include custom mould design, profile knife manufacturing, timber profiling, lowtemperature kiln drying and band-sawing.

A standard range of pre-primed fascia, scribers, and readyto-install weatherboard, as well as sourcing rare native timbers and exotic hardwoods, are just a part of what we do. Contact our passionate team on:

03 544 54 52 or sales@meadmartin.co.nz

and find out how we can help with your next project.

@meadandmartin

meadmartin.co.nz

Mead and Martin

Game changer

This Blenheim project posed more than the usual renovation challenges. More than seven years ago, the commercial property had failed its building warrant of fitness due to the unconsented removal of an internal stairwell, which doubled as a fire exit. The top floor was abandoned and nesting birds had taken a liking to it. The building was in “an absolute state”.

Enter Smith and Sons, who bought the building with the idea of converting it into two apartments. The mammoth task involved making the most of the existing top windows, but removing and replacing everything else on the upper floor.

The team worked with an architectural, engineering and resource consent firm to come up with a viable plan and then set to work. Adding to the challenge was a tight time frame for the turnaround, but the project went to plan and the team is delighted with the result.

They should be. The birds and other problems are long gone and what remains are a pair of two-bedroom apartments that are bright, airy and comfortable, with crisp clean lines and sparkling kitchens. The windows that were retained invite light inside, but also throw a spotlight on just what has been achieved here. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

This stunning renovation turned a redundant commercial space into stylish apartments

This stunning renovation turned a redundant commercial space into stylish apartments

The original windows invite light in and throw a spotlight on what has been achieved here.

03 578 8752

sales@nazarethjoinery.co.nz

1 Warwick Street, Blenheim www.nazarethjoinery.co.nz

"Concept to Completion"

for all of your engineering, architectural, environmental and resource management needs Phone 03 579 6211 or visit our website: www.smartalliances.co.nz

visit our website: www.smartalliances.co.nz

Smith and Sons

BLENHEIM

T 03 578 4311 • M 027 823 7292

E blenheim.admin@smithandsons.co.nz

W www.smithandsons.co.nz

Bruce Palmer

PinkFit® installer – Marlborough

Mobile: 027 447 7379

Phone: 0800 746 534

Email: marlborough@pinkfit.co.nz

Pink® Batts® installer to Smith and Sons

TITAHI BAY

The lines they are a-changing

This three-bedroom, two-storey home has been extensively renovated to the point that it’s almost unrecognisable – in a very good way. It is now light, bright and flows intuitively from room to room. You’ll find an updated kitchen, two bathrooms, and

extensive changes to the outdoor areas. Out the back, overgrown concrete terraces and a tired pergola have been replaced with paved steps, lots of landscaping, and a swathe of decking.

The house extension connects directly with this area, enabling the owners to step out through bifold doors to enjoy alfresco dining and relaxing. Light floods into the main living-dining space from the bifolds and extensive windows.

The house has a new coloursteel roof, weatherboard cladding, double-glazed aluminium joinery, concrete access steps and foundations under an existing bedroom. Major work was required to accommodate the additions. The entrance was repositioned, internal walls were realigned and wall frames replaced. The results show it was well worth the effort. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

All the pod cons

The owners of this cleverly designed 98sqm rural holiday cottage bought the small farm site to build a weekend escape from their Wellington home base. The finished cottage is designed with two separate pods united by a central outdoor dining area, and you’d be hard pressed to know it was once nothing more than a small farm shed.

With sustainability in mind, the owners were keen to use as much as possible from the original shed, including the slab, trusses and some wall framing. The cladding was completely updated, and all new double-glazed joinery installed.

On one side, the sleeping pod offers three modest bedrooms with two bathrooms. On the other side, the main pod is all about entertaining, with an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area. This pod also includes a toilet, so there’s no need for late-night entertainers to disturb those sleeping on the other side.

The covered area between the two pods is clearly the star of the show. This welcoming space has a timber ceiling and decking, and loads of space for seated dining and fireside relaxing. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

CTM Construction

HAWKE’S BAY

M 027 383 2245 • E charlie@ctmconstruction.co.nz

W www.ctmconstruction.co.nz

Heart of class

This charming beach bungalow was in serious need of a renovation from a skilled set of hands. It received both thanks to builders who managed the high-spec upgrade while retaining the home’s original vibe.

The revamp brings the 188sqm house up to modern standards and has established comfortable living for decades to come. A rejigged layout, modern materials, a heating and cooling system, and above-code insulation

make it a fantastic place to live – no matter what the Wellington weather throws its way.

The renovation involved new timber-framed walls, wall linings, skillion ceilings, skylights, a huge amount of joinery and a mammoth upgrade of the existing deck. Floorboards were taken up and, where possible, reused. New window joinery was installed and – in one case – a door, window and weatherboards were replaced

The builders have retained the home’s original vibe, while giving it a high-spec upgrade.

with sliders. Views over Wellington Harbour are on show through glazing along the front of the house.

Light is invited in through skylights and new windows, giving the two-bedroom home a completely different feel. You’ll also find a slick new monochrome galley kitchen, two freshly updated and fully tiled bathrooms, landscaping from front to back, and a new garage. For more of this house go to houseoftheyear.co.nz

Planit Construction

WELLINGTON

M 021 397 710

E rowan@planit.nz

W www.planit.nz

PHOTOGRAPHY CAYDN THOMSON

& RELAX Retreat

Go with the flow by injecting texture, personality and a splash of colour into your sanctuary

Line of beauty

Choose a toilet bag big enough for all of your bathroom kit, but one that also earns its stripes in the good-looks department. Hay Candy wash bag, $105, from Everyday Needs.

COULDN’T BE HAPPIER

Bathing should be nothing other than a luxurious experience. Elevate a leisurely soak to languid indulgence with a vessel of fine form, such as this one by Duravit.

Duravit Happy D.2 freestanding bath, from $13,035*, from Plumbing World.

TRIAL & ERA

Uniformity and whiteon-white not your thing?

Head down the midcentury route with a vanity featuring details from this enduring era. Larsen Single Vanity, $1599, from Early Settler.

Plumb job

From the top down, this elegant arrangement is a harmony of textures and tones that promote soothing tranquillity in the bathroom.

Paini Cox Extended mixer in brushed brass, $536; LeVivi Rondello Basin, $240; and LeVivi Oxford Vanity in Walnut, $1762 , all from Plumbing World.

*Prices are indicative only, may be subject to change and do not include wastes.

Spa for the course

Style doesn’t stop at the bathroom door. Blob wall mirror, $499, from Made of Tomorrow; Kūmarahou & Mānuka hand and body wash, from $39, from Aotea Made; Leafy Green bathmat, $99, from Bianca Lorenne.

Olive love

We’re all keen for green this season – an invigorating colour for bathroom accessories.

French flax-linen bath mat in olive, $60, from Bed Threads.

Make me blush

Muted and dusty pinks are hot this year. Against a white backdrop, these pastel shades add interest, warmth and a striking point of difference.

TileCloud Fitzroy Gloss mixed pink feather tile, POA , from TileHaus.

Doric order

And you thought freestanding baths came in just the one texture? This model does luxury in a classical and groovy way. Doric 1700 Pill bath, $19,999, from Plumbline.

TRICKLE & TREAT

Shower, dry off and drop your towel into a stylish basket. Or, if you like greenery in your bathroom, use the latter to contain a lush and leafy plant. Victorian Grand rigid riser kit, $1150, from London Tapware; Lotus large rattan woven basket, $45, from Bunnings.

FILLED WITH PERSONALITY

The days of bathroom wow-factor being confined to tiles are long gone. In this Omaka home, colour, texture and pattern have been playfully mixed and the result is a bathroom retreat brimming with personality and style. Wildlife wallpaper, a black standalone bath, copper tapware, feature tiling, and a statement pendant light are bold components, with the overall effect being one of cohesion and, importantly, fun. For more of this house go to page 68.

IN THE kitchen

Take top appliances, blend in stylish accessories and sprinkle with beautifully designed pieces that elevate the most important room in your home

Standing ovation

This built-to-last stand mixer does it all, as well as look good in Matte Luxe Shaded Palm. Kitchenaid KSM160 stand mixer, $1050, from Moore Wilson’s.

You’ve got some brass

The soft curves of these sturdy satin-brass handles take inspiration from the art-deco era.

Strata Chunky handle, $43.90-$51.90, from Metala Homeware.

Moody hues

Texture and tone are in harmony in this kitchen, which is finished in the Resene AquaLAQ range. The professionalquality, Environmental Choice-approved products are specifically designed for kitchen surfaces and flooring.

SHOWTIME

Put your favourite kitchen treasures on display for all to enjoy. Valira Isabella 10-cup stove-top espresso, $199, from Applewood, The Kitchen Shop; Lorne salad servers, $29.90, from Country Road; Davis & Waddell Origins serving bowl, $39.99, from Stevens; KitCo casserole, $160, from KitCo.

Grow – Wāhine, Finding Connection Through Food, by Sophie Merkens, $60, from Beatnik.

STILL LIFE

This Danish design puts the T into the clarity and tranquillity of tea making. Add leaves, pour water, brew, rest and revive. Slow and steady wins the race. Still Teapot by Ferm Living, $205, from Slow Store.

Simple pleasure

The sleek Twelve kitchen is a stellar example of how to create maximum surface area with minimal distraction.

POA , from Studio Italia.

Serving notice

Dining is an experience with hospitality-grade porcelain tableware in handmade forms. Robert Gordon Earth range bowls, $39.99, side plates, $34.99, dinner plates, $39.99, from Scout Home + Lifestyle.

In the fold

A sake set inspired by hexagonal origami shapes lends colour, texture and Japanese cool to the kitchen. Salt & Pepper Ikana five-piece sake set, $49.99, from Farmers.

A pinch of boho

Elegance comes in many shapes and sizes, and this relaxed cosy kitchen with moody hues and bohemian influences proves the point beautifully.

TAP INTO DRAMA

Striking, sculptural and a statement in black, mixers such as this provide contrast and kitchen smarts.

Levivi Elba sink mixer in black, $419, from Plumbing World.

GENTLY MIX

In this brand-new Wellington home, a replica of a two-storey 1890s villa, you’ll find sterling examples of how to marry traditional style with contemporary convenience. Nowhere is this more evident than in the kitchen, a seamless blend of sleek surfaces and classic looks such as brass tapware, marble and timber floorboards. For more of this house go to page 28.

POA , from Cosentino.

Wild thing

All creatures great and small

With beetles lurking under rocks and earwigs living it up in the dahlias, you may think you have enough insects in your garden. But you need to make more habitats for them – for your sake and theirs. Leave as much garden totally wild as you can cope with. Plant it, then just let nature take over. Don’t touch it – just see what grows and what wildlife flocks to it.

Non-permeable surfaces such as concrete paths or bitumen driveways cause unnatural water run-off and stormwater problems, and adversely affect the soil life under them.

Consider permeable paths, such as shingle or pavers, and a ribbon driveway, which comprises two parallel tracks of shingle with a ground-cover growing in between.

Whether you are establishing a new garden or tending an existing one, think about rewilding – one of the most significant gardening trends of the decade. Mary Lovell-Smith explains how to go wild, without frightening the neighbours.

Rewilding is about handing garden care back to the expert – nature. In extreme cases, this might involve returning to the original flora. In moderation it may simply be about letting nature have a freer hand and providing an amenable environment for creatures such as birds, lizards, insects and the zillions of smaller beings, such as soil organisms. You don’t have to rewild the entire garden but every bit helps.

Guilt-free grass

Lawns, the joy of the proud gardener and bane of the rewilder, don’t have to be a neat-freak golf-course green, or a patch of rank weeds. They can be a compromise. By all means sow grass seed, but that’s just about all the care allowed under this compromise. Not using fertiliser, herbicides or any other sort of pesticide gives the soil and all its inhabitants the chance to become healthy. Watering also becomes redundant in the compromise. If there is a dry season, then brown, dying grass is a visual representation of it – no more, no less.

Mowing less frequently, and with the blades set high, will improve grass vitality. Create paths or patterns through the lawn, rather than shearing every millimetre.

Ground covers are fun alternatives to grass and require much less care. Chamomile and thyme are classic fragrant candidates, but several native species, such as leptinella, mazus and pratia species are also excellent.

Death and new life

Dying perennials, annuals and vegetables can look untidy, but by leaving them to decay naturally you will be providing food and habitat for many creatures. A neat hedge around the decay will help the appearance, and will also provide a habitat. Many seed heads are attractive and provide structure and height when there’s not much else about. This reminder of decay and death makes spring regeneration all the sweeter.

Letting plant litter break down naturally imitates nature – think of all the rich, crumbly soil on a forest floor. So, it’s best not to dig over a garden and disturb the decomposing process. Leaving leaves where they fall means they rot down and feed the tree.

If you’re worried about layers killing the lawn or making paths slippery, then rake them onto the garden.

Insects love wood stacks – even neatly stacked piles of firewood – so consider creating at least one. Like birds, they also appreciate some water. If you don’t have room for a little pond, a birdbath is next best thing.

The more the merrier

Monoculture, with all its associated horrors, is out. This means vegetable gardens do not exist in the way you might remember or imagine them. Rather, fruit trees and vegetables are scattered about and planted where they complement one another. At its finest, this is a food forest.

The call of native plants is strong. Put in as many as you can, preferably those sourced locally. You’ll find plenty of trees (hedging and individual), shrubs, climbers, grasses and flowers to choose from.

Fire was tamed by our ancestors around one million years ago. The fire was where they gathered, talked and told stories.

At Stoke we bring you the most evolved fireplaces from around the world. Fire is still where we gather and share the warmth of a good story.

stokefires.com

WELLINGTON - Wellington Fireplace Studio 3 Pickering Street, Kaiwharawhara

STOCKISTS OF