jf kutfkuf by Derek Kolush

New ideas for your happy place

PURE &

SIMPLE How to make a modern statement with less

genius storage hacks to action

Be inspired by... A GLAMOROUS NEW BUILD A RAMBLING SEASIDE HOUSE ● A CHIC RESTORED VILLA

● ●

LET’S HEAR IT FOR DAHLIAS

Tips for growing everyone’s fave flower

MOTHER LOVE Gestures that speak volumes

So hot right now

THE BEST WAY TO HEAT YOUR PLACE

CARE AND CRAFT FROM START TO FINISH That’s the Russells difference

Here in our local sewing room, our curtain-makers pay meticulous attention to detail by first checking each piece of fabric for consistency and quality before carefully measuring, cutting and sewing. That same diligence happens in our blind studio, where precise hand skills and technology combine to create quality blinds. And when complete, we also professionally install them so they hang and operate just right. That’s the Russells difference.

Book a free in-home consultation at russellscurtains.co.nz

Featured fabric - Helix by Warwick in Moonbeam

CONTENTS May

make with Mum

12 Shopping 12 14

Homes

F R E S H F I NDS DA I LY G RIN D

S OF T TO UCH

Tufted cushion love 18

T E XT U R A L F EELIN G S

4 6 G O W I T H T HE F LOW

The beauty of boucle

One family’s new house is imbued with quirky touches that reflect a laid-back lifestyle

2 0 A L L D R ES SED UP

Salad accoutrements 22

L I V I N G WE LL

Eleanor’s tips on breathing easy in the home 24

WOM EN WE LOVE

Leah Craven’s textile art 1 4 6 M OT H E R LO DE

Gifts for Mother’s Day

YO U R HO M E A N D GA R D E N

T I P T H E BA L AN C E

A new build that exudes a modern, international style favoured by the owners’ years of travel

All things coffee 16

114

B RI N G BAC K T H E GLO RY

A big old Christchurch seaside bungalow is lovingly restored by a creative couple big into DIY

shop for Mum

Renovation 74

SI T T I N G P R E TT Y

A mission to find more space led to one family’s stunning reno 82

A NEW TURN

A 100-year-old home is given a new lease of life that effortlessly merges old features with modern living 9 0 W I N T E R WA RME R S

A comprehensive guide to heating your home – from heat pumps to insulation and beyond

Makeover 1 04 CO MI NG UP R OS ES

A ’70s brick unit is transformed by a first-time homeowner, whose efforts she likened to her own version of The Block NZ 1 1 4 FORE VER FLOWER S

Dry and arrange a special floral bouquet for Mum 11 6 SHE LF I MP ROVE M ENT

Turn your home into a well-organised machine! Make clutter a thing of the past with 30 of the greatest storage hacks

cook for Mum 138

104 Food 1 24 MOT H ER O F A LL CRE PE S

Whip up a batch of chia crepes topped with caramelised banana for Mum – and yourself 1 2 6 FAST FO O D

Fantastic meals that look like you’ve spent far longer than 30 minutes creating 1 3 1 SO U ND BITE S

The new and appetising food, drink and accessories making an appearance now

124 Gardens

1 3 2 G ROW YOU R OW N

It’s been said millennials will never own a home if they keep ordering avocado on toast. How about growing your own? 1 34 C O N STA NT GA R D E N E R

Mary Lovell-Smith breaks down what to do this month 1 3 8 DA HL I AS

These cheerful blooms are becoming quite the florists’ darling. Home gardeners have always appreciated their appeal

On the cover He might be an attention seeker by nature but sixmonth-old Albie, the little French bulldog, still needed to be coaxed with treats in order to behave for our cover shoot. No wonder he looks so content in homeowner Olivia Sullivan’s arms. See more of this house on page 34. Photography Sarah Rowlands. Styling Olivia Sullivan.

YO U R H OME AN D GARDEN

Hello

Fiona Hawtin, Editor

This month I’m…

In need of another Golden Laced Wyandotte to join my small flock of two. My first one, Tammy Wynette, has gone to the big hen house in the sky.

Upgraading my rubbish bin too Zone Denmark’s Novaa soft-close pedal bin foor the bathroom. Not that I plan on caressing it, but it does have a velvety finish. $195 from Thee Urban Studio, theurrbanstudio.co.nz

Grateful to Little French Pastry for thinking up this birthday cake alternative – 16 in choux pastry. From $35, littlefrenchpastry.co.nz Dreaming of a Scirocco Tiffany radiator. So much more nostalgiclooking than my humble heat pump. $5108 (750mm) from centralheatingauckland.co.nz

YO U R HO M E A N D GA R D E N

PHOTOGRAPHY, HAIR AND MAKE-UP CAROLYN HASLETT. FIONA WEARS HELEN CHERRY KNIT AND ZOE & MORGAN JEWELLERY.

hat is it about storage? The more you have, the more you need because you either acquire more stuff, or you’re tripping over bits and pieces like a hoarder. In my case, it’s a bit of both. Of course, this is not the ethos Marie Kondo has built an empire on, but I never want to spend my life folding things and putting them into small boxes over and over like Sisyphus. While others agonise over the perfect pantry, decanting every last lentil into Weck jars and lining them up like soldiers on parade, I can barely be bothered unpacking the groceries and getting them on the shelves. That said, if there was little effort involved, I’d happily have my spices as perfectly aligned as supremely stylish Olivia Sullivan, whose incredible home is this month’s cover story. But I know that it’ll be messed up in no time at my place (no names, teens). So when I read our storage feature on page 116, I was thrilled to discover a couple of easy hacks I’ll be adopting, including the one about putting all your cans lying face up in a drawer. That way, those red kidney beans won’t get lost behind the chickpeas. It will set me on the path to making lifelong habits so that one day I may yet have a home as organised as Olivia’s.

Eton 3 Seat Leather Sofa

Design Your World

Autumn Winter 2021

freedomfurniture.co.nz

Social club

Quirky ’grams, before and afters, plus bunny love EDITOR Fiona Hawtin ART & EDITORIAL Deputy editor Bea Taylor Art director Nicola Feeney Sub-editor Michelle Joe Garden editor Mary Lovell-Smith Senior designer Béla Trussell-Cullen Designers Demelza Callesen, Alice Bush

WE LOVE

These designer cakes will wow bakers and non-bakers alike. Psychedelic patterns and bold colours are Alana’s signature style. @alanajonesmann

PET OF THE MONTH Nostalgic beaded jewellery is her go-to, but it’s the cute handmade squiggly mirrors and tables that caught our eye.

Funny bunny Ivy loves to chew the pink kitchen door and eat the dried flowers in her home, page 104. Regardless, she’s a much-loved house member.

@mishmish.creative

CONTRIBUTORS Archisoul Architects, Helen Bankers, Rebecca Barry Hill, Jessica Brook, Anna Briggs, Wendy Fenwick, Jeannie Ferguson, Tom Ferguson, Armelle Habib, Carolyn Haslett, Jackie Meiring, Heather Nette King, Julie O’Reilly, Steve Pearce, Sarah Pickette, Sarah Rowlands, Catherine Steel, Olivia Sullivan, John-Paul Urizar, Sam van Kan, The Virtue, Rachel Wybrow ADVERTISING | MARKETING | CORPORATE Sales director Rachel McLean Commercial brand manager Bridget Hewitt bridget.hewitt@aremedia.co.nz, 0211591265 Senior account manager Guy Slater guy.slater@aremedia.co.nz, 02111040304 Classified sales Kim Chapman classifieds@xtra.co.nz MARKETING Marketing manager Barbara Mantey barbara.mantey@aremedia.co.nz, 0279351456

CONNECT WITH US We love seeing images from our #yourhomeandgarden community. @yourhomeandgarden

EXECUTIVE Chief executive officer Brendon Hill General manager Stuart Dick Editorial director Sarah Henry PRODUCTION Printer Webstar Distributor Ovato Retail Distribution

Check out our new Instagram highlight to see the best before & afters.

AFTER

+ Contact us Email yhg@aremedia.co.nz. Postal address: PO Box 52122, Kingsland, Auckland 1352 + Subscription enquiries Phone: 0800 624 746. Email magshop@magshop.co.nz or visit magshop.co.nz. + Advertising enquiries Sales Director Rachel McLean, email: rachel.mclean@aremedia.co.nz. Directory Advertising: Kim Chapman, email classifieds@xtra.co.nz. Your Home and Garden (ISSN 1173-8642) is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication, unless initially specified otherwise. All letters and other material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled “not for publication”. Opinions expressed in Your Home and Garden are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of Are Media Auckland. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited material. Paint colours may alter in the printing process.

TOP READ

PLANT TRIBE: LIVING HAPPILY EVER AFTER WITH PLANTS

HANDLE WITH CARE You can never have enough pots, vessels or vases to line your shelves with. This one ticks the boxes for texture and shape. $34.95 from

From the authors of Urban Jungle, comes another plant bible – Plant Tribe by Igor Josifovic and Judith De Graaff (Abrams, $59). A must-read for plant parents.

freedomfurniture.co.nz

IN THE ROUND

A modern take on the chaise longue makes this sofa a timeless piece to add to your home, from $6029. boconcept.com

YOU R H O ME AN D GARDEN

2 3 6

5 4 7

WE LOVE

Daily grind

Hot inspiration to fuel your caffeine obession 12

1 Orange Pendant art print by Ana Frois, from $95, from Paper Plane. 2 Stelton AJ Press coffee maker, $399, and Finch coffee cup, $155.40 (set of 6), from Citta. 3 Hasami porcelain milk pitcher in natural, $41.99, from Coffee Supreme. 4 Ceramic travel tumbler cup, $46, from Good For. 5 Hario coffee measuring spoon, $4.99, from Coffee Supreme. 6 How to Make Coffee book, $22, from Paper Plane. 7 Dimpled mug, $3, from Kmart. 8 Robert Gordon speckled pink hug me mug, $18, from Moi on George. 9 Resene Coffee Bean paint, $4.80 (testpot), from ColorShops. 10 Stanley Classic 1.4 litre coffee press, $149, from Paper Plane. 11 Chemex coffee maker, $60, from Coffee Supreme. 12 Hay coffee pot in brown, $295, from Everyday Needs.

YOUR H O M E A N D GA R DE N

n cu od wove Iz e r la ge x C

ea. m Tea P o r f , 9 1 2 shion, $

Sage x Clare Hetti llama cushion, $129, from Invil Homeware + Design.

SAVE

KALEI CUSHION, $ 1 2 , F R O M K M A R T.

S T Y L E S TA L K E R

SOFT TOUCH

Gibson tufted slate and pink cushion, $69.99, from Adairs.

Luxuriate in texture with these fun tufted cushions

natura l cush

ion, $ 6

9.99, f rom

Adair s.

Aleza tufted cushion, around $187, from Sage x Clare.

Jardin

Living & Co tufted circle cushion pink/grey, $25, from The Warehouse.

SPLURGE

KIP & CO CORAL COAST WOOL SHAG FLOOR CUSHION, $ 2 5 9, F R O M MOI ON GEORGE.

YO UR H OM E A N D GA R D E N

clay, 5, from Spotlight.

NEXT BIG THING

Textural feelings

Must-have pieces in boucle, the fabric du jour

10 9 1 Home Republic Bree boucle mustard quilt cover, $209.99 (queen), from Adairs. 2 Otis forest boucle cushion, $79.99, from Adairs. 3 Wanaka throw in forest, $299, from Weave. 4 Boucle ottoman, $35, from Kmart. 5 Alpaca boucle throw in fawn, $287, from Thread Design. 6 Eichholtz Maguire swivel chair, $2843, from Trenzseater. 7 Mia boucle sofa, $4999.99, from A&C Homestore. 8 Alberto cushion in ivory, $95, from Weave. 9 Breu occasional chair in boucle black, $2395, from Coco Republic. 10 George swivel chair, $1399.99, from A&C Homestore.

YO UR HO M E A N D GA R D E N

DARE TO FALL IN LOVE

SILGRANIT® kitchen sinks Everlasting love at first sight. Silgranit sinks are adored around the world for their exclusive styles and designer colour palette. They are the perfect union of beauty, design and an impressively resilient, easy-care surface. With a Silgranit sink as the cornerstone of the BLANCO UNIT, you will have a stylish space to drink, prep and clean at the heart of your kitchen. Truly the basis for an enjoyable long-term commitment. Set your heart on a SILGRANIT sink at blanco.co.nz. Monaco Corporation Ltd. is proud to be the official partner of BLANCO sinks and taps in the New Zealand market. @BlancoNewZealand @blanco_newzealand

Jona from than Ad Smit ler Ev h&C e augh serving set, ey’s. $2

79,

S T Y L E S TA L K E R

Present statement salad with the perfect pairin of bowl and servers

Milu serving bowl in nori, $39.90, from Citta.

Black salad serv er from Green Wit s, $29, h Envy.

Theo timber salad bowl, $99.90 (medium), from Country Road.

Dinosaur Design long dew serve in dark horn swi around $134, fro Bed Thread

Robert Gordon salad bowl in white ochre, $99 (large), from Moi on George.

Reclaimed olive wood servers, $79.90, from Green With Envy. Embossed speckled salad bowl, $8, from Km

YOU R H OM E A N D GA RDE N

Robert R ordon rden too Table salad servers, $$59.99 froom A&C C Homestoree.

YH&G + BLANCO

Kitchen sink drama A centrepiece of activity that combines beauty with function – what’s not to like?

un fact: people spend up to 60 percent of their time in the kitchen at the sink. Which is why having a highly performing sink that adds to the aesthetics of your kitchen makes complete sense. SILGRANIT® sinks from BLANCO are admired globally for their exclusive styles and designer colour palette. The Germanengineered designs incorporate timeless, straight line bowl geometry, which suits all types of kitchen styles.

Elegant quartz

Style tip Undermounted sinks give a sleek, streamlined finish to your benchtop.

SILGRANIT® consists of 80 percent quartz sand, which is not only one of the hardest elements of granite, it also makes for a beautiful sink. From modern farmhouse styles and spacious undermounts in striking colours, such as Black, Anthracite or White, there are plenty of choices to allow for flexible kitchen planning. Whichever you choose, it will make a statement in your kitchen, particularly when combined with tapware.

Unsurpassed durability

A SILGRANIT® sink is the ultimate hardwearing choice. Every single one is incredibly

resilient, extremely durable, scratch proof, heat resistant, unbreakable and acid resistant. It will endure the toughest treatment and come out looking just as good as the day it was installed.

Easy to maintain

SILGRANIT® has a non-porous, smooth stone surface that repels water and liquids, making it easy to clean. The patented Hygienic+Plus surface protection formula reduces bacteria growth by an average of 98 percent, making it a safe bet for your family.

Optional extras

There’s also an option to kit each sink out with a crockery basket, a colander, a wooden chopping board and many other accessories to make life at the kitchen sink that little bit easier, and certainly, rather more glamorous. For more information on BLANCO products, please visit www.blanco.co.nz or follow on Instagram @blanco_newzealand

LIVING WELL

Breathing space ELEANOR OZICH Home wellness expert

YO UR H OM E A ND GA R DE N

Happy, healthy and natural ways of improving the air quality in your home

S the items in your pantry, such as baking soda and vinegar, work beautifully as homemade cleaners and, what’s even better, is they cost next to nothing to make. If you’re not into making your own, you might be interested in Think Dirty – a free app that scans potentially toxic ingredients in your cleaning and self-care products.

Keep your home smelling beautiful, naturally

hen it comes to living a healthy, natural lifestyle, one of the best ways we can start our journey is by tackling the air quality in our home. After all, we spend plenty of time indoors, and particularly as the winter season approaches. According to the EPA, the air quality inside our homes can be 5-10 times more polluted than the air outside. Scary, huh! That’s why it’s so important that our space not only feels comfortable, but that the air we breathe in is fresh, too. The idea of keeping a healthy home seems simple but where to start? Do I have to toss everything and start again? The good news is there are a number of small, simple changes that can make a difference to the air quality of your home.

Slowly start to switch out your household products

When I first delved into my natural living journey, I was shocked to discover that many ‘natural’ and ‘organic’ cleaning and beauty products still contained myriad of chemicals. Most are hidden under the labelled ingredient ‘fragrance’, which could be a mixture of unidentified chemical ingredients such as carcinogens, allergens, hormone disruptors and respiratory irritants that can throw our bodies entirely out of whack. It’s no wonder so many of us struggle with everyday health ailments. These days, I love whipping up new sprays, cleaners and other various earthfriendly goods to keep our house smelling and looking beautiful, plus it’s so much more satisfying to make your own. Many of

Scented candles may seem harmless, however, many of them are made from paraffin, a petroleum by-product that pollutes the air in your home. Similarly, air fresheners, toilet sprays and reed diffusers can also contain harmful synthetic fragrances that disrupt the natural air in your home. Instead, opt for beeswax or soy candles made with essential oils, or invest in a diffuser that will last for years to come.

Keep dust to a minimum

It’s essential to keep the dust in your home to a minimum as it contains an array of toxins that can easily be breathed in. I use my homemade all-purpose cleaner to wipe down surfaces at least once a month using a microfibre cloth, and mop floors on a regular basis. A vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter is also a brilliant investment as it can catch smaller particles to remove allergens and other contaminants easily. Alternatively, you could also use an air purifier if you struggle with airborne dust, mould, pet dander or pollen.

Open your windows

So how does our indoor air get so polluted? Many of our household furnishings and products are continually releasing Volatile Organic Compounds (also known as VOCs). These can come from new furniture, paint, cleaning and beauty products, carpet and adhesives to name a few. One of the simplest things you can do to remove the VOCs is to open your windows. Each morning, I wander around the house and open the windows in each room and allow the air to circulate for at least a few hours.

Pot up a plant or two

Not only do indoor plants add vibrancy, texture and colour to a space, many have the ability to reduce toxins in the air. The humble plant has the ability to absorb indoor air pollutants such as ammonia, benzene and formaldehyde (which is

emitted from most new types of furniture). Some of the best air-neutralising plants include bamboo, ferns, palms, peace lilies, chrysanthemum and spider plants.

Keep the nasties out

If you’re going to all the trouble of keeping toxins out of your home, don’t forget that many kinds of chemicals can easily be walked inside thanks to pesticides and such. Grass and gardens treated with herbicides, insecticides and fungicides can easily be tracked through our homes when we don’t remove our shoes first. This tip is simple – leave your shoes at the door.

Lastly...

Remember to give yourself grace in this process. Creating a chemical-free home isn’t going to happen overnight. Instead, allow plenty of time to switch out products as you go along, and be sure to celebrate each step of the way.

Homemade purifying mist MAKES 50ML This zesty spray is particularly good at diminishing any lingering odours in the kitchen. During the warmer months, I’ll switch out the spicy clove for something a little more refreshing such as eucalyptus, lemongrass or grapefruit. Patchouli or geranium paired with orange is another lovely combination. 10 drops orange essential oil 5 drops lemon essential oil 5 drops clove essential oil 10ml witch hazel 50ml glass spray bottle Put all the ingredients into an amber-coloured spray bottle and top with filtered water. Shake gently to combine.

YO U R HO ME AN D GARDEN

Hooked on a feeling

Textile artist Leah Creaven has a yarn to us about her beautiful hand-tufted rugs and her love of wool Text Bea Taylor Photography Anna Briggs

YOU R H OM E A ND GA R DE N

y day, Irish-born Leah Creaven is managing the marketing, admin and photography for Drummond Farm – a Martinborough vineyard owned and run by her partner Alex Drummond. By night, or more accurately, in the in-between times, Leah is a textile artist, tufting beautiful large-scale rugs and running punch needle workshops in the surrounding communities. “I’ve always believed art to be an integral part of the home,” she says. “It’s my aim to create something that’s not only functional but is viewed as art too. Art isn’t always hung up on the walls.” What were you doing before you started making tufted rugs? Before I left Ireland, I studied a degree in Textile and Surface Design in Dublin. But it wasn’t until I came to New Zealand that I started working in the creative industry. I started off managing a wool shop in Wellington, then managed a gallery in Martinborough and finally worked for a cotton textile company before going out on my own. How do you split your time between Drummond Farm and textile making? A very big wall calendar. I do all the marketing, photography and emails for Drummond Farm in the morning and leave the rest of

WINE AND WOOL (left) Leah Creaven stands in between the grapevines on Drummond Farm where she and her partner Alex Drummond live and work. Tufted wool samples are pinned on the wall in Leah’s workshop (above).

YO UR HO ME A N D GARDEN

How long does it take to make one rug? The process is pretty lengthy but probably not as lengthy as people think (I probably shouldn’t admit that). Most of my time is spent designing the piece. I design all my work on Illustrator or Photoshop, and then begin the process of choosing colours, tufting samples, stretching the fabric, transferring the design and then tufting followed by the finishings. There’s some extra time thrown in for the odd change of mind and the pulling out of yarn. But in total it could take up to 20 or 30 hours, on and off, for a large rug. What was making your first large-scale rug like? It felt pretty fulfilling. Also, it was pretty good going for my biceps – I learnt that using a counterweight for my tufting gun would have been useful. I loved the impact of the large-scale art and it made sense to me to continue creating large scale rugs from then on. What is the hardest thing about doing rug tufting? It can be strenuous work. My arms and wrists start aching if I’m working for too long and I have to take breaks.

MORE THAN FLOORS (opposite) Leah’s punch needle work sits with her tufted rug samples along one wall in her workshop. Her hand-tufting has been made into framed pieces and cushion covers, as well as rugs.

the day for getting stuck into the studio. Up until recently, I also worked a day job so there was a lot more juggling than there is now. Can you tell us about your first encounter with textile making? What did you love about it? My first encounter with rug making was about two years ago, when I purchased a punch needle. I’m a pretty impatient person so I loved the immediacy of it and the overall texture. I tried my hand at knitting before this, but again my impatience got the better of me and it didn’t last long. What inspires your patterns? And how do you go about mapping out a design? I’m inspired by a lot of things, mostly my surroundings. I’m a city girl at heart living in the countryside so I take inspiration from the shapes of the Wairarapa landscape. I also love experimenting with colour and composition, and I try to find interesting ways of combining the two. 26

YOUR H OM E A N D GA RD E N

What’s the best thing? Being able to use a renewable and sustainable material to create art. I love that I’m playing a tiny part in helping the wool industry here. I also really love the processes involved in rug tufting – all the way from the initial design work on my laptop, to choosing colours and wool, to eventually finishing the product. Seeing it in a home is super rewarding too. What happens when something goes wrong in your rug tufting? Things go wrong as often as things go right. There’s been plenty of times where I’m halfway through a piece and realise I hate it, and have to pull it out and start again. There have also been cables that have come loose, fingers jammed in the tufting gun and screws flying out into the universe, never to be found again. You just deal with them as they come. I once oiled my tufting gun, then spilled it all over a white piece and ruined it. So, I got up, quietly shut the studio and was finished for the evening. What is the difference between a cut gun and a loop gun, and which do you work with? I work with both. My first tufting gun was a pneumatic tufting gun with interchangeable cut and loop pile heads. I then purchased the cut and loop pile guns separately so I could chop and change quickly. I keep changing my mind on which one I prefer. I’ll make a cut pile rug and feel, yes – I prefer cut pile. And vice versa. Right now, I’m digging the loop pile.

YO U R H O ME AND GARDEN

What type of wool do you use and why? I choose to work exclusively with wool because it’s a renewable and biodegradable fibre. I also love the feel, texture and smell. I use coarse wool for my floor rugs because of its durability. Floor rugs need to be strong for the feet that are going to be dancing on them. What’s it like being a textile artist? What are the things no one tells you? No one really tells you about the expenses until you and your Visa card are experiencing them. It’s not a cheap practice and I’ve learnt the hard way how to manage that. I guess it can be said in every industry, but going out on your own also teaches you a lot about being in business. Like keep all your blimmin’ receipts! Tell us about your punch needling workshops. I host punch needle workshops every few months in a few locations in the Wairarapa, soon to be further afield. It’s a fantastic way of meeting other wool enthusiasts and bouncing ideas off each other. I’ve come away from most of them having learnt something new about wool and the wool industry here. I also love sharing the craft with people and getting them hooked (rug hooking pun!). What are the best and worst things about being a creative working in this country? One of the best things is the creative New Zealand community. This might not be the case everywhere, but since coming to the Wairarapa I’ve felt so supported by the creatives here. Something I’ve found quite challenging is the availability of materials for rug tufting. I’m in a country that is known to be one of the best producers of wool, yet I’ve found myself having to source New Zealand wool from overseas most of the time. Rug wool companies normally sell wool in massive quantities that are too large for little ol’ me, so I’ve had to broaden my search and frequently import wool. Do you have any exciting future projects coming up? I have a few exhibitions this year, which I’m really excited about. Some other exciting things I’m working on would include rug tufting workshops at the end of the year when my studio isn’t so uninviting, and I’m also working on some 3D tufted rug ideas.

SCALING UP Leah’s parter Alex makes all of her tufting frames. He recently built one a size up from this one.

YOUR HO M E A N D GA R DE N

What do you love about living in Martinborough? It’s really quite beautiful. It’s your quintessential vineyard town wrapped in rolling hills and farmland. What I love most is the location. It’s only an hour from the ocean, where you can go diving and fishing, and an hour from Wellington city. I’m someone who enjoys living in the countryside and darting away for a city break, rather than the other way round. It’s the perfect place to live out my best life. lvtextiles.com

YO UR HO ME AN D GARDEN

Living & Co Buffalo Check duvet cover set, $59 (queen). Living & Co Takiwira 2 drawer bedside table, $149. Living & Co Turner storage bench, $229. Living & Co brown and white jacquard cushions, $15 each. All from The Warehouse.

YH&G + THE WAREHOU

LIVING WELL

Live cosy 1

Welcome family and friends in from th cold with a home that ups the ante on warmth, comfort and st l

s the days get shorter and the chill in the air becomes more noticeable, we’re turning our attention to indoors. Right now, creating a warm and inviting home is a priority, so everyone in the family can enjoy time spent inside with each other, with a nurturing and cosy interior front and centre stage. Making changes to your house for the cooler months is easily done on a budget. The Warehouse has sourced far and wide and has a huge range of affordable, quality soft furnishings such as cushions and throws, as well as bedding, decor and heaters to help you get your home just right for family cocooning with a few simple tricks.

Begin with the bedrooms. Change the cotton and linen duvet covers and sheets for snuggly flannel-blend ones in blues, charcoals and greys. Throw a super-soft mink feel blanket on the bed for an added feel-good vibe. Short on space to store summer bedding? An upholstered ottoman with built-in storage at the foot of the bed is a great place to stash these. Get the lighting right. Due to less daylight hours, adding lamps throughout the house is vital but especially in the bedrooms and living space. Soft candlelight also gives another layer of ambience to a room and is also your best friend when it comes to flattering lighting. Add a mirror or two. Again, this is all about giving the impression of light in rooms. Position them to capture sun during the day or reflect interesting architectural features in the evening. Finish with cushions and throws. Cushions are an invitation to get cosy on any sofa or bed. Be generous with them. Add in some darker tones and the odd bright yellow, or go for plush tufted cushions that will add texture to any room. A soft, tactile throw is also compulsory on the couch when you’re watching a movie. This winter, it’s all about finding the joy in being warm and cosy. thewarehouse.co.nz

4 3 5

1 Living & Co Reactive Glazed Elements Earth diffuser, $15. 2 Living & Co Kalmar mirror, $69. 3 Living & Co Reactive Glazed Elements Fire candle, $15. 4 Living & Co cotton/ flannelette sheet set, $49 (queen). 5 Living & Co Edith tufted cushion, $20. 6 Living & Co jacquard cushion, $15. 7 Living & Co mink-feel blanket, $30. All from The Warehouse.

Still life Styled vignettes are the finishing touches to important interiors decisions and come after material and furniture choices. They’re also expressions of personality, perhaps more than choice of sofa. Beautiful flowers, crystal glasses and a retro speaker equals all-out sophistication. For more of this house, turn the page.

YO UR H OM E A N D GA RD E N

HOMES

PHOTOGRAPHY SARAH ROWLANDS. FLOWERS THE BLOOM ROOM

Tip the balance All things curvaceous and beautiful.

Go with the flow A new build for a growing family.

Former glory A bungalow’s return to form. YO U R H OME AN D GARDEN

OPEN-PLAN LIVING Light streams through generous skylights and large sliding doors in Olivia Sullivan and Sam Kennedy’s Christchurch home. Olivia sourced the curved sofa from Nood in a clearance sale, then had it reupholstered in an olive velvet fabric. The flowers in the kitchen are by The Bloom Room.

YOU R H OM E A ND GA R DE N

Tip the balance A love of old homes and all things curvy has seen this determined couple build a new home that’s full of character Text Bea Taylor Photography Sarah Rowlands

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Meet & greet Olivia Sullivan (marketing and account manager), Sam Kennedy (accountant) and Albie the French bulldog.

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DINING The print above the dining table is from Freedom and the pendant light is from Mr Ralph. KITCHEN Olivia and Sam wanted tongue and groove panelling on all the kitchen cabinets but it was going to stretch the budget, so they installed it only on the front-facing cabinets.

f it were to be given a title, Olivia Sullivan and Sam Kennedy’s new build would be “The Great Balancing Act of 2020”. It begins with the design, which called for a home that stood out from its suburban neighbours – but not too much. Next was the desire for a home filled with character and history, which was met with the realities of building new. And above it all was the budget – the great equaliser – where blow-outs were matched with sacrifices and savings rewarded with splurges. “I wanted something really light and fresh, but with a lot of quirky details,” says Olivia. “It needed to be timeless, but we didn’t want it to look like every other shiny new build. It wasn’t an easy road.” The resulting home is exactly what they envisioned; a quality new build with details and finishes that give it personality and help it to stand out from the rest.

To build, or not to build

In 2019, Sam and Olivia made their way back to Christchurch after a five-year stint in London. On their return they had one thing on their mind – “a little St Albans villa,” says Olivia. They saved stringently, but after missing out on every house they were interested in, the couple realised their St Albans dream home was way beyond their budget. YO U R HO ME AN D GARDEN

DINING NOOK The couple dine in the back of the open-plan living area. The glass-topped coffee table was a Trade Me score. BATHROOM Olivia had originally envisioned a bathroom of dark green tiles, but budget instead steered them towards these terrazzo chip tiles from Reptiles.

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Style tip If you don’t have enough fixings in the wall to install a towel rail, a rustic ladder makes a great alternative.

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LAUNDRY In one of Olivia and Sam’s original layouts they had put the laundry in its own space, but when the footprint of the house ended up a bit bigger than had been budgeted for (205sqm instead of 108sqm), they moved the laundry into the garage to balance it out.

“I really wanted to bring texture and details into this new home “Building new for me was a ‘heck, no!’” explains Olivia. “There is no character in a new build, but when we thought about size, warmth and design, we realised that it was going to be more cost-effective for us, although it took a lot of convincing for me.” Knowing a lot of tradespeople and having hands-on family members helped them immensely when it came to the budget. “We were really lucky in that sense,” Olivia explains, “Sam’s dad owns a construction and project management business, and my godfather did the kitchen for us, so our labour costs were a lot lower than they would’ve been.”

Adding character

Making the new home look new, but feel like an old home was top priority, so Olivia and Sam took it into their own hands. “We had a little maths book and it was filled with all our plans,” explains Olivia. Most nights they’d sit down and map out different floor plans, one square representing a square metre. Once they had finally settled on the best 205sqm layout, they went to a draughtsman. Both Olivia and Sam love the look of barn-style homes, but it’s 40

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a style that looks out of place in a subdivision. As a compromise, they opted for a double-gabled silhouette to reference that barn style, with a modern twist. Tongue and groove panelling also features on the walls and doors throughout the house to add that touch of character Olivia adores in older homes. “I really wanted to bring texture and details into this new home because so often they’re just white and plain,” she says. “In older homes the main bedroom always has some sort of feature detail, like a grand fireplace. It’s very hard to replicate that, but I wanted some kind of detail in the main, which is why we landed on the tongue and groove shelf wall behind the bed.” Lighting was another way of referencing older homes. Olivia veered away from modern down lights in favour of pendants in all of the bedrooms, except the main, and wall-mounted sconces. “Sam also insisted on the log burner,” she says.

Standing out, but fitting in

Sam and Olivia were determined not to be just “another house in the suburbs”, but they needed to fit in. So, in the name of research, they spent many hours driving around the neighborhood in their

H DESIGN DETAILS Olivia was determined to bring something different to this new build. Tongue and groove panelling is a main feature in the house, as is the full height door frames and doors (left).

because so often they’re just white and plain.” white van to get a feel for the look and style of the surrounding houses. Their hours of style-scouting didn’t go unnoticed, causing a vigilant neighbour to post a warning on an online community group about a ‘white van driving around the streets’. “We had to quickly introduce ourselves and explain what we were doing!” laughs Olivia. The result of their stakeouts established that a plaster exterior was out of the question. Instead, the couple opted for vertical cedar cladding – on the front only, as it was all the budget would allow for – and bagged brick. “At some point, in the next couple of months, we might do another layer of bagging to make it even more rustic,” says Olivia. “Another thing we did, which everyone questioned, was choosing white aluminium joinery,” she says. “A lot of the newer homes use black or charcoal aluminium. From the inside, having white joinery makes it feel fresh and light, instead of closing the space in.”

Eye-catching kitchen

The first few pages in their maths grid book saw the kitchen placed in the middle of their open-plan space with living on one

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side and dining on the other side. The only caveat with this design was where to put the butler’s pantry – a must-have. “We were really struggling to work the space right with the gabled ceiling, kitchen in the middle and include a butler’s pantry,” explains Olivia. In the end, they moved the kitchen to the back of the room and tucked the butler’s pantry in behind it. “Now, when you walk through the door, the kitchen is the feature at the end that immediately catches your eye, which I’m so stoked with.” The kitchen was Olivia’s favourite space to design. “I took my inspiration from an image I had seen on Pinterest and, funnily enough, it looks completely different to the original concept.” The curved kitchen bench was the only element to make its way from the original concept to the final product. It’s joined by textured pearl tiles, an engineered warm white concrete benchtop and round wall sconces. “I knew I didn’t want a marble benchtop or pendants over the kitchen island. I also didn’t want any overhead cupboards,” Olivia says. “I wanted it to be really clean and open, so we’ve just got the one oak shelf on the wall.” YO U R H OME AN D GARDEN

Storage isn’t an issue because Olivia made sure to put plenty of cupboards around the kitchen island, and the butler’s pantry is lined with open shelving.

International style

Aside from the professionally executed straight lines of the structure itself, curves rule inside Sam and Olivia’s home. “I love curves,” Olivia says. “They’re all around the house – on the kitchen bench, in the light fittings, the couch, the TV cabinet, even the dining table isn’t a perfect rectangle. I love quirky lines.” Five years of living in Europe gave Olivia ample inspiration for her new abode. In fact, “interior inspiration” was a good reason to choose only the most design-worthy Airbnb’s to stay in. Olivia recalls a beautiful Copenhagen Airbnb, which sparked her love for Scandinavian style. “The whole house was about half the size of our living space, but the way it was designed was beautiful and I just fell in love with the style. It’s muted and minimalist, but a little quirky.” Trinkets collected from London’s Hackney markets are littered throughout the house, a lovely reminder of their time abroad. “We still can’t believe this is our home,” says Olivia. “There was one day when we were standing in the living space, the walls were up and we were just pinching ourselves saying, ‘This is going to be our home.’ It was such a crazy thought, but here we are.” 42

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H EXTERIOR Vertical cedar cladding helps to elongate the gabled ceiling, which already has a soaring 2.5m stud. The white aluminium joinery and bagged brick brings lightness to the look. BEDROOMS Tongue and groove panelling also features in the bedrooms, with round wall sconces from Mr Ralph.

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SHOP THEIR STYLE

A base of soft neutrals makes space for subtle poops of n top colour, curvy shapes and ample texture to sit on 3

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1 Garden Jumble framed canvas, $329, from Freedom. 2 Pendant lampshade, $69 (85cm), from Flux Boutique. 3 Ferm Living pond mirror, $720 (large), from Slow Store. 4 J5 olive tree, $24.99, from Kings Plant Barn. 5 Berlin self water pot in nude, $44.99 (large), from Shut The Front Door. 6 Artificial sprawling plant in footed pot, $10, from Kmart. 7 Mineral coffee table, $3360, from Slow Store. 8 Moroccan leather pouf, $199, from Moi on George. 9 Marshall Stanmore bluetooth speaker, $699, from Gary Anderson. 10 Lawrence club chair, $1499.99, from A&C Homestore. 11 Palliser sideboard, $1999.99, from The Market. 12 Frankie organic cotton duvet cover, $199, and Frankie organic cotton pillowcase pair, $59.90, from Citta.

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Floor plan

Best memories in your home? The first week we moved in, we hosted people every night. We were excited about having our own place and couldn’t wait to show it to people and have them over. I love friends and family coming over for dinners, drinks, coffee or just popping in. Best purchase? The curved couch. I feel like it’s a furniture piece that I will have forever. Also, the stunning stone coffee tables, which were Trade Me steals. What would you never do again? Light coloured carpet. It’s not ideal when toilet training a puppy.

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New build tips

+ Visit as many show homes as you can. It’s so good seeing different layouts as well as ideas and inspiration for design. + Allow yourself enough time to make decisions. + Include plenty of bracing or fixing. Think ahead about where you want to hang artwork, towel rails, TVs, wall-mounted bedside tables. + Do your research into products, read reviews and get samples. + Think about what parts of the house are the most important and see where you can compromise in the areas that matter less to you.

KEY 1 Garage 2 Laundry 3 Bedroom 4Toilet 5 Bathroom 6 Hallway 7 Ensuite

8 Main bedroom 9 Walk-in wardrobe 10 Butler's pantry 11 Kitchen 12 Living 13 Dining 14 Entry

Budget Where did you save? Our bathroom tiles. I wanted to have the whole room in green tiling. It was one of the hardest decisions, but we had to go for the most cost-effective option. Best tip for budget saving? If there are certain things you want, try and do them on a smaller scale.

Contacts ADM Construction, 03 420 6222. Managed our build smoothly and patiently and got it done on time. Sullivan Glass & Glazing, 022 580 5649. They did all our mirrors, including the fabulous abstract mirror in our entrance. Creative Joinery, creativejoinery.co.nz. They turned our kitchen dream into reality. The quality of their work is next level.

1 Resene Wan White 2 Belle XL laminate flooring in desert oak from Godfrey Hirst 3 Terrazzo Chip tile from Reptiles 4 Mallorca Satin pearl tiles from Metrofloor

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LIVING AREA (opposite) The cabinetry is by Melteca, couch and rug from Farmers, and pendant light from Lighting Direct.

Go with the flow Building their new home in a laid-back setting was important for this family, and the arrival of a baby and puppy made it a priority Text Catherine Steel Photography Helen Bankers

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Meet & greet Ellen Wilburn (IT service manager) and Adam Wilburn (owner of AJW Electrical), son Dawson, 10 months, and Dude the Welsh springer spaniel.

E ENTRANCE The black painted brick softened with vertical cedar shiplap was a cost-effective choice. The breeze-block wall looks stylish and give privacy at the front of the home.

llen Wilburn and her now husband Adam realised they shared many things in common when they first met, but the one similarity that genuinely resonated was Titirangi, where they grew up. Nestled into the Waitākere Ranges, the leafy Auckland suburb comprises native bush, glorious birdsong and the wild West Coast beaches nearby – aspects they both enjoyed as children. While living in nearby Sunnyvale, Ellen and Adam found themselves short on space in their home and knew they needed to move. Central Auckland house prices didn’t hold much appeal, so they looked further afield to the outskirts of the city, searching for that same laid-back setting they grew up in. “We wanted to have that same lifestyle we had growing up as kids – space, bush and being close to the beach,” Ellen says. “Titirangi was out of our budget at the time, so Kumeu appealed as it was a growing area.” The beauty of finding a section and building on it was a strong draw, allowing them to create a home with an aesthetic they loved and was practical too. “Building was a good opportunity for a blank canvas,” Ellen says. “Adam and I are both quite particular with our design choices. It felt like the right path to go down, especially after looking at different properties. When it came to bang for our buck, this was a better way to go.” Also, with Adam working as an electrician all over Auckland and Ellen working as an IT service manager, both are used to commuting to the central city for jobs, so Kumeu being close to the motorway was handy. “It’s a good area to stay in and raise a family,” says Ellen. “Once we moved here, we realised we’d made the right choice.”

Careful planning

The couple had a clear idea of what design features they wanted from their new build, so they drew a sketch and asked architect Alistair Watt to bring their vision to life. The house was built by Maddren Homes and the process was seamless. “They were flexible and straightforward to deal with,” Ellen says. “We were kept in the loop with project managing and Adam was able to do the lighting plan and wiring through the house.” What the couple wanted to do was to capture the sense of being indoors and outdoors simultaneously. “We wanted good flow. To achieve this, the main living area, office and main bedroom opened up to the outdoors with stacker doors.” 48

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“We wanted good flow. To achieve this, the main living area,

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office and main bedroom opened up to the outdoors.”

EL LEN WIL BURN

KITCHEN AND DINING The Wilburn’s open-plan dining space is filled with natural light. The dining table and chairs are from Nood, the pendant lights were sourced from Lighting Plus and the rug under the table is a score from eBay. Fluid Interiors created the Melteca cabinetry in the kitchen.

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the years and also like to keep their decor items on show, not hide them in cupboards. Such a warm approach to decor and how they’ve brought their personality to the space is clear in their paint colour choices. Initially, most of the interior was painted in the warm white of Dulux Half Haast, but bolder hues soon made their way in, says Ellen. “We knew we wanted to bring in colour here and there.” Knowing they wanted a bit of colour in the main bedroom, and with green being a favourite hue of Ellen and Adam, it was a no-brainer to choose Dulux Ohai as the feature wall colour. “We had seen it used somewhere in another home in Your Home and Garden and loved how it was a grey-green, calming colour. We wanted something calming that wouldn’t date too easily, and this is still a relatively classic colour,” she says. “It’s an easy tone and natural enough so we could mix and change furnishings. It gave us flexibility as I like to change the linen on the bed.” They decided to go with brass feature wall lights from early on, so the green colour perfectly fits that scheme. Cushions and a rug in terracotta tones evoke a relaxing, comforting setting – “I was tying those elements together,” Ellen says. These chosen colours extend to the ensuite, with its amber feature lighting (which also appears in the main bathroom). Here, and in the main bathroom, the couple saved money by applying a groove panelling lining rather than wall tiles. “A full wall of tiles can be expensive and was something we decided we would pass on this time around to save money. The waterproof panelling is still a nice feature and was, we felt, nicer than a plain plasterboard wall.” In the office, the dark tones of Dulux Mt Messenger lend a dark gentleman’s green. “It reminded me of colours you see

Knowing the house would eventually need to accommodate them starting a family, the couple had this in mind when designing the home. The H-shaped layout meant the main bedroom was tucked away from the other bedrooms at the opposite end for privacy. “We knew we wanted a quiet, private sanctuary at the end of the house, away from the living area and other bedrooms.” Another feature that the couple love in the design is the high-vaulted ceiling in the open-plan living area, enhancing the sense of space and allowing a gallery wall to be a focal point for those walking through the space. “I’ve always collected art and painted,” Ellen says. “Also, it’s a great entertaining space. It has a lovely, airy feel, and the high stud makes the room feel a lot larger than it is. If we’d had a lower stud, it wouldn’t have had the same impact nor enabled us to do a gallery wall as a central, eye-catching piece.” The couple are now parents to 10-month-old Dawson, and while they were conscious a young child might be on the horizon, they wanted a design that gave a sense of luxury but was still liveable. The house needed to suit their busy lifestyle and didn’t require anyone to be too precious about how they treated the house. “It didn’t matter if kids ran in from the outside with muddy feet as we used Flooring Extra Quick-Step laminate flooring in the main living area. It’s hard-wearing and delivered, in the sense that we didn’t need to worry about being too rough.”

Decor decisions

An eclectic aesthetic reigns throughout the house. The couple like to display the art they’ve collected from travelling the world over 52

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Style tip Feel those stress levels drop a notch with a bedroom feature wall in a soothing shade of grey-green.

MAIN BEDROOM The feature wall is painted in Dulux Ohai, the bedside table from Mayon Importing and the photo is an image from Ellen and Adam’s wedding. SPARE ROOM (opposite) The wall fan is from Mayon Importing. DAWSON’S ROOM The cot is from Farmers, the yellow cushion from Freedom and the rug is a Trade Me buy.

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OUTDOOR FLOW The front of the house has been landscaped with easy-care pavers softened with flax, palms and mass plantings of Ligularia reniformis.

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MAIN BATHROOM The amber lighting pendant is from Mr Ralph, round mirror from Bunnings Warehouse and the vanity by St Michel.

in old offices,” Ellen says. “Adam has a few collectable items, so we wanted a moody feel.” The warm white walls in Dulux Half Haast within the living room provide a gentle setting upon which artwork and decor objects appear, while a touch of glam anchors the space by way of a central brass pendant. This pendant’s style is echoed in the lights above the kitchen island, sophisticated in their brass and glass features. The mixing of textures and colours works beautifully in the kitchen, in a muted, understated way. The different decor features here started with the brass handleware, Ellen says. “We didn’t want a white kitchen. Instead, I tied in the wooden floorboards with the timber shelving and cabinetry. Additional coloured cabinetry in Melteca Fog and Melteca Southern Oak, and the benchtop in an engineered composite prime stone, give the palette character yet don’t overwhelm the space. “We wanted shelving around the side of the island and overhead to add a few elements. Our style is eclectic – we like bits and bobs, and wanted someplace to bring those elements on display, not all tucked away. These features enabled us to do that.” Dawson’s bedroom was a DIY job before he was born and the decor was inspired by the love Adam had for westerns as a boy. “That was Adam’s thing when he young, so we replicated that,” Ellen says. “I painted the Native American chief before he was born, it was one thing I wanted to do while I was pregnant. It was styled by an old-school paint-by-numbers kit.” The mustard tone of Dulux Thames on the wall was based on that and provided a setting in which Dawson could maintain as he matured. “It’s not too babyish, and if someone else wanted to come along it was an easy colour to keep.” YOU R HO ME AN D GARDEN

“On rainy summer evenings we can sit outside and enjoy the covered area.” E L L E N WI L B U R N

Love for the outdoors

The main bedroom, living room and office all open out onto a patio and lawn. To embrace the couple’s love of relaxing outdoors, they installed a covered pergola. “It wasn’t in the original plan, but once we had the patio area and outdoor furniture there, we thought it’d be great to have cover there so we could sit out there on winter nights and have the fire going. It’s nice and cosy.” With the backyard getting lots of sun, the pergola provides shade and protection in the summer months too. “On rainy summer evenings we can sit outside and enjoy the covered area, so we get lots of use of it. We purchased the ceiling and put it up ourselves in a day. Adam ran feature lighting through, using rattan pendants.” The vertical cedar shiplap and black-painted brick used for the home’s exterior was fairly cost-effective, Ellen says, and the blend of different materials breaks up the surfaces visually. “It always looked sharp with 56

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the nearby greenery. The garden helps to soften it.” As well as undertaking the landscaping themselves to save on the budget, Ellen and Adam ensure extra privacy at the front of the house by building a concrete wall of breeze blocks. The pattern adds more interest than an ordinary wall of bricks.

Beautiful memories

While the family have just moved on from their much-loved home, they’re about to undertake another new build in Waimauku, also in West Auckland. But their fond memories of their Kumeu home will always resonate, especially of the stunning open-plan living area, which held many gatherings with friends and family. “We used to get such nice compliments about the art wall, which always brought back happy memories of our travels,” Ellen says. “We spent so much time in this space. So much happened in the years that we lived there.”

PATIO The outdoor furniture was found at Hunter Furniture and the rattan pendant lights from Voodoo Imports.

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SHOP THEIR STYLE

A maximalist approach using a clever mix of worn-in treasures and wood has given this new build a modern take on rustic

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1 Hans Wegner replica elbow chair, $295, from Cintesi. 2 Acacia protea, $22, from Early Settler. 3 Maxwell cot, $1099, from Hatch. 4 Anatolian Adana kilim rug, $950, from Mary Kelly Kilims. 5 Stella star cushion, $21.95, from Freedom. 6 Social Club Hendrix whiskey tumbler, $29.99 (set of 4), from Stevens. 7 Social Club Hendrix decanter, $89.99, from Stevens. 8 Daintree bar stool, $269, from Freedom. 9 Resene Aspiring paint, $4.80 (testpot), from ColorShops. 10 Carson leather ottoman, $1799, from Early Settler. 11 Little People, Big Dreams David Bowie book, $24, from Paper Plane. 12 Jonathan Adler Dora Maar urn, $859, from Smith & Caughey’s.

What areas of your new build did you save and splurge on? In the ensuite and bathroom, we used HardieGroove board instead of tiles. We also did the landscaping and electricals ourselves. The area we splurged on was the custommade round, wooden door handle for the front door. It came from Auburn Woodturning in Australia. Also, good carpet – we went with a Cavalier Bremworth wool loop-pile as we wanted something hard-wearing that would last. What were the best lessons you’ve learned? All the hard work on those days when you can’t be bothered makes it all worthwhile once you’re in. Another big lesson was choosing the paint colours and seeing them in different lights. I’d recommend painting large patches when testing colours. What would you never do again? I would have preferred to have an internal laundry, not one in the garage. And a scullery where I can hide things I don’t want on display. What’s the one thing you would change about your home? When we got the floorplan with the measurements, we should have stepped it out. Our formal entrance ended up being very narrow. It doesn’t get used as often as the sliding door by the living area, which is always open. What’s the most memorable Wha expeerience you’ve had in your home? Starting a family. Bringing our sson home and getting a puppy. Making memories as a family. w have you been clever with How storaage? We have two substantial linenn cupboards off the hall. ways can be a waste of space Hallw but aare necessary to a layout. Plus, we included attic storage. Whaat was the budget? $498,000 for the build.

Elllen’s style tips

Texture is important. Don’t be scared of combining different visual or tactile accents. + Pick a colour palette to stick with, either in cool or warm tones. + Buy second-hand furniture and decor to mix with recent buys. Things don’t have to be brand new.

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Bring back the glory A century-old Californian-style bungalow in New Brighton, which fell into disrepair after the quakes, is restored to perfection Text Mary Lovell-Smith Photography Sarah Rowlands

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KITCHEN/DINING Opening out the kitchen at the back of the house and adding French doors added a lot more light and a view of the garden. The industrial light shades were rescued from a factory in Woolston whose lighting was being upgraded.

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Meet & greet Matthew Ayton (tonal engineer), Tanya Boe (character house restorer), Francis Malloch-Boe, 25, Eartha Ayton-Boe, 12, and Loveheart the cat.

amaged by the earthquakes, boarded up for three years and stripped by vandals, the century-old, two-and-a-half storey California bungalow in New Brighton was rather down at heel when Matthew Ayton and Tanya Boe bought it as-is at auction in 2014. “As soon as we saw it, we fell in love with it,” says Tanya, explaining how the quakes that rattled the city for nearly a year put on hold their plans to build a house on their 40ha block in the picturesque bush-clad Okuti Valley in Banks Peninsula. Tanya lost her shop in the centre of town in the quakes, their children their school, and Matthew his job. Distressed at the seemingly wanton and wasteful demolition of old buildings in the city, the couple restored several dwellings before finding the character-filled six-bedroom house, which they decided they wanted as a home for themselves and their family. KITCHEN The floors are original rimu with a whitener in the polyurethane to keep the wood from yellowing with age. EXTERIOR The outside of the house was painted in Resene Thistle, a yellow-green beige colour from the Heritage colours collection, with a Resene Black White trim and a Resene Monarch front door.

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“It had amazing bones. It has so many windows, it’s sun-filled all day long, with wonderful light.” TA NYA B O E

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LIVING Two false ceilings were hiding this magnificent high ceiling, which has been restored with boxed beams. The shabby-chic kauri sideboard belonged to Matthew’s grandmother and the large, ornate mirror dates back to his flatting days.

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“It had amazing bones,” says Tanya. “It has so many windows, it’s sun-filled all day long, with wonderful light.” And it’s a two-minute walk from the beach. Despite its abject appearance, only a little structural work was needed to bring the house back towards its former glory – some minor repiling, gibbing downstairs where the original lathe and plaster had fallen off in the shaking, and rebuilding one of the chimneys.

Pile on the history

The only alteration was opening out the kitchen into what they think was the maid’s bedroom at the back of the house and adding French doors. “It meant we can see out to the back garden,” explains Tanya. This created a “wonderful flow of light through the house,” enhanced by the addition of glass in two of the original wooden panel doors downstairs, and the installation of toplights above. Fortunately, the magnificent two-metre wide red tuff volcanic rock fireplace in the living room – what was originally the billiard room – survived. The billiard table was long gone, but while digging out for some minor repiling Matthew found the six piles upon which it once stood. Like all the piles, they were old kerosene cans filled with concrete and set upon the sand dune. Other works revealed more of the house’s architectural past. Repairs to the living room ceiling showed it to be the lower of two false ones, which were hiding the much higher original one. Needless to say, that was restored, complete with its boxed beams. When removing the 1970s chipboard lining the hall, YO U R HO ME AN D GARDEN

HISTORY CLASS Matthew recreated the wood panelling in the hall, up the stairs and in the front sitting room; the sideboard (below) used to belong to Matthew’s grandmother.

DINING The sling leather and wood chairs were bought from a restaurant in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

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H WINDOWS There are no curtains or blinds in the house. Almost all the windows have leadlight or cut-glass sections and each room has its own unique set of leadlights.

Matthew discovered remnants of wood panelling. So, he painstakingly recreated it there, up the stairs and in the front sitting room. Apart from this panelling, which is painted a soft grey, and the darker media room, the interior is all white, which Tanya finds is the perfect canvas for what she describes as her eclectic and international style of interior design. She says it provides a simple, clean backdrop that works well with worn things – for little in this household is new; almost everything has a cherished story behind it. Having travelled a lot since her early 20s, Tanya has an eye for the unusual. “I just know what I like,” she says. “I don’t think too hard about it, I know I’ll make it work.”

Sense of style

Matthew, too, with a fine arts degree, has a keen sense of aesthetics. Three years ago, the family took a break from house restoration to spend six months travelling through Asia and Europe. In a restaurant in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, the sling leather and wood dining chairs took their fancy, so they asked if they could buy them. Subsequently, never ones to do things by halves, 10 were shipped back home. The massive 1.5sqm ornately framed mirror above the equally impressive kauri sideboard in the sitting room was rescued by Matthew from a flat he was living in. The old house was about to be demolished and the landlady didn’t see any merit in it. In the 30-odd years since, Matthew has YOU R H O ME AN D GARDEN

Style tip A free-standing bath will make the room look more spacious than a built-in one.

carted it around 13 flats and 10 houses. The sideboard itself belonged to his grandmother, who owned a junk shop in Sumner for 40 years. “Lots of people say we should repaint it,” says Matthew, “but we love its patina, all it previous colours showing through.” Above the stairs hangs an intriguing artwork. Closer inspection reveals it to be a collection of wooden shoe moulds from India, which the couple found in a second-hand shop in Ferry Road, and assembled for display. A tapa cloth on the wall in the craft room was cut from a larger cloth and gifted to Tanya by a Tongan friend. The house has no window coverings of any sort. The windows are one of the nicest things about the house and should not be 66

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covered, explains Matthew. Almost all have leadlight and cutglass sections, which throw rainbows on the walls, he says. Each room has its own set of leadlights, and each is different. “It’s as though the butcher who built the house went through the catalogue, and said “I’ll have one of those and one of those,’” he laughs. What has helped give this home its singular identity is that almost all the work has been done by the couple themselves, with only occasional help from tradespeople and friends. “We are both very good with our hands and we can turn them to anything,” says Tanya. “Matthew is very good at looking things up and working out how to do them if he doesn’t know how, and I am artistic and creative. Spatial architecture is my passion.”

BEDROOMS The rooms are all painted white and given personality with pops of colour, such as the yellow pendant light, a floral headboard or colourful cushion.

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SHOP THEIR STYLE A lifetime love of op-shopping has seen this beautifully restored seaside three-storey house filled with one-off finds for a unique family home

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1 Nouveau Atlantis free-standing bath, $1299, from Mitre 10. 2 La Chamba size 3 casserole, $105, from French Country. 3 Den leather armchair, $1149, from Freedom. 4 Mercator Melba clear glass pendant, $119, from Mitre 10. 5 Pedro 65cm bar stool, $139, from Cintesi. 6 Boston vintage metal pendant, from $229, from Mr Ralph. 7 Cath Kidston Mimosa fabric cushion cover, $59, from Bolt of Cloth. 8 Hedera glacier plant, $11.99, from Kings Plant Barn. 9 Replica Tolix chair, $114, from Cintesi. 10 Hadley modular sofa, $7995, from Coco Republic.

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H Honesty box

What did you splurge and save on? We splurged on stainless-steel benches in the kitchen. Like pretty much everything else in the house, the kitchen cabinets themselves were second-hand. And we employed a tiler, for once. We also had to fork out for a new iron roof because the salt had turned the original slate shingles to dust and were not repairable. What would you never do again? We got to a point towards the end of the renovations and said we will never live in a house while we are doing it up again. The first winter here we only had a little gas heater and a few rugs to keep us warm, and holes in the walls and ceilings stuffed with paper to keep out draughts. What was the best lessons learned? To avoid losing outdoor plants to coastal conditions. Do your homework and plant appropriately, unlike me who wanted to make a point and worked hard to plant what I wanted and failed many times. Any renovation or DIY disasters? Not really. When purchasing we went with our instincts and knowledge of older character homes and earthquake damage. It helped that the house was well built originally and up high and dry on a sand dune. Everything was pretty straightforward. What is one thing you would change about your house? We can honestly say, nothing. We love it. It is sunny, dry, warm, airy and big enough for all our ideas and projects. Memorable experiences: The feedback has been fantastic. The number of people who have stopped to say they lived here, or knew people who lived here is amazing.

Budget We don’t have any idea! We did most of the work ourselves over several years and sourced most materials second-hand. We didn’t really keep any record.

Top tips

+ Rather than a deck that would

not suit the style of the house, two very broad steps lead down from the kitchen to the lawn and patio. + Prepping old surfaces for repainting should be done thoroughly for a smart finish. Paint over crap, and it still looks like crap. + Never be afraid of mixing pieces of furniture of different eras and styles. + Use lighting rather than wall colour to create mood. + Bring the outdoors in with plants that soften the edges and warm your home and spirits. + Don’t over restore things or strip away the character, as happens too often.

Materials The floors are original rimu with a whitener in the polyurethane to keep the wood from yellowing with age. The kitchen splashback is of small matte white hexagon tiles.

Local op-shops

Chaos Collections, 285 Ferry Road, Waltham, chaoscollections.co.nz The Pink Elephant, 432 Tuam Street, Phillipstown. Seaside Vintage New Brighton 105 Brighton Mall, New Brighton.

Palette 1

1 Resene Black White 2 Resene Half Silver Chalice 3 Resene Thistle 4 Resene Monarch

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Front walls painted in Resene Leather. Back wall in Resene Quarter Linen. Floor stained in Resene Colorwood Dark Ebony. Vase painted in Resene Calico. Rug from Nodi, chair and vase from Domo, shelf from Citta, armchair and coffee table from Matisse, Head ornament and dishes from Republic Home.

RESENE Leather

The curated space

You’ll be inside a lot over winter, so indulge yourself with a specially created space, filled with objects you love. This room opening into another room has an art gallery feel, which amplifies the importance of the collection of personal objects, furniture and paintings. The warm brown walls in Resene Leather in the foreground sets the tonal scene, while the contrasting neutral wall in Resene Quarter Linen behind keeps the overall space relaxed and welcoming, and will give you plenty of moments of joy.

RESENE Quarter Linen

inspo

VA R Y T H E H E I G H T S O F YO U R CHOSEN OBJECTS T O C R E AT E I N T E R E S T.

The home admin space

RESENE Dust Storm

RESENE Twine

Commandeer a corner, alcove or niche under the stairs that can be put to good use as a home admin centre. Be creative with the walls and update these either seasonally or when you feel like a change. Ask for accent wall colours to be tinted into a base of Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen for a durable wall finish that doubles as a chalkboard for remembering tasks. Walls painted in Resene Rice Cake. Full circle in Resene Twine. Half-circle in Resene Dust Storm.

a new

YH&G + RESENE

MOOD

Take comfort in your surroundings when the chill arrives this autumn with seasonal updates to your favourite rooms The sepia bedroom

Escaping to your bedroom for some ‘me’ time will be so much more dramatic if you try a sepia theme. Film noir fans will appreciate the moody and mysterious blacks, whites and greys these films are famous for. If you opt to strip back your walls to grey, the effect could be as though you’re seeing your space in greyscale. Experiment with lighter and darker shades of grey to create drama with a hit of terracotta. Use Resene SpaceCote Flat to add to the moodiness of your colours. You could also introduce rounded shapes to add a nurturing accent to keep from going full femme fatale. Walls in Resene Half Stack. Floor in Resene Silver Chalice. Door is in Resene Surrender. Bedside table is in Resene Double Stack. Pendant lamp, semi-circle on wall, arch vase and floor all painted in Resene Half Grey Friars. Pots painted in Resene Desperado and Resene Cape Palliser.

Style tip Hang prints offset from one another to create a feeling of informality.

RESENE Cape Palliser

RESENE Silver Chalice

The emerald lounge

If you’re after all-out glamour, painting your living space a jewel-toned emerald puts you on the fast-track to total luxury. It’s both cocooning and exotic, and you can give in to any maximalist tendencies you may have by pairing it with green velvet furniture. While brass and mustard accents add warmth, go a step further and make a statement by painting a cabinet in vertical stripes in your favourite Resene colours. The key is in the execution and you’ll need to use high-quality painter’s masking tape and a ruler to get the lines straight. Walls painted in Resene Palm Green. Floor painted in Resene Greige. Bowl painted in Resene Bubble White. Books in Resene Rivergum and Resene Deep Teal. Cabinet painted in Resene Double Spanish White and Resene Vintage.

RESENE Double Spanish White

RESENE Palm Green

For more colour ideas and inspiration, visit your local Resene ColorShop, or order your free colour chart online, resene.co.nz/ordercharts.

Study in contrast Heritage features such as the early 20thcentury chimney sit comfortably beside the kitchen’s modern, handle-free charcoal cabinetry, proving old and new are able to work in harmony in a joint space. To see more of this house turn to page 82.

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RENOVATION

PHOTOGRAPHY ARMELLE HABIB

Sitting pretty A busy family’s space mission.

Winter warmers From fireplaces to new technology. YO U R H OME AN D GARDEN

SITTING PRETTY

A family’s space mission led to a simply spectacular renovation Text Sarah Pickette Styling Heather Nette King Photography Armelle Habib

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ENTRY The artwork is by Claire Stening and the bench is custom-made. EXTERIOR The house’s fretwork might look original but it is a recent addition. A decorative urn creates a focal point in the garden, where rosemary, Portuguese laurel and hydrangeas thrive.

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FORMAL LIVING The Morris pendant light gives the room warm ambience. CASUAL LIVING Terri perches on a custom ottoman covered in Manuel Canovas fabric and Sam and Chloe sit on a custom sofa. The rug is by Armadillo & Co. STUDY The artwork is by Helen McCullagh.

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Meet & greet Terri Shannon (interior designer and business owner) and Luke Shannon (business owner), Charlie, 14, Chloe, 12, and Sam, four.

ot everyone gets a second bite of the cherry when it comes to renovating, but Terri Shannon did: she’s had the good fortune to have renovated her bayside home twice now, with the most recent project seeing an open-plan extension added. “Our house is a 1912 double-fronted home we bought in 2011 and initially renovated to restore it and make it comfortable,” says Terri, director of Bloom Interior Design & Decoration, “but we always intended to live in the house for a while and then extend.” At the time they bought the home, Terri and her husband Luke were parents to two daughters, Charlie and Chloe. The arrival of their son Sam, four years ago, instigated renovations that would allow the house to grow alongside the family. Luke took on the role of owner/builder and project manager, and set about bringing Terri’s vision for the extension to life. “We lived in the front section of the house while building work was going on,” says Terri, “and while that had its moments, the experience of collaborating with Luke to extend the house was great.” For Terri, the flexibility to make last-minute decisions as the house took shape was a godsend. “As issues came up, we were able to adapt and change things. We could make decisions like ‘let’s take that door a bit higher’ or ‘let’s put a skylight in there’. It’s a luxury you don’t always have when renovating.”

Custom features

At the front of the house, what was once Terri’s study has been transformed into Chloe’s bedroom. In order to retain the work space, a desk has instead been built into the adjoining formal living room. “It’s generous enough in size to be multifunctional in this way,” says Terri. Beautiful joinery features in the living spaces and all the bedrooms. “The kids have built-in desks, bench seats and drawers,” she says. “Storage was YO U R HO ME A N D GARDEN

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“My kids just want to be near me, so this new layout means they can do their homework or watch TV while dinner is being made.” T ER R I SH A NNO N

KITCHEN/DINING Terri designed the marble-topped oak dining table based on one she had seen and loved in an English magazine. The striking joinery painted in Dulux Black is counterbalanced by a white-tiled splashback. The rangehood cover was made by Luke and the pot filler tap is by Perrin & Rowe.

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Finishing touches

This family-friendly attitude runs right through the house, with washable covers on the sofas and hardy seagrass in the bedrooms. American oak flooring was laid in a herringbone pattern over the home’s draughty Baltic pine boards and window treatments from Terri and Luke’s business, Bloom Bespoke, add warmth and softness to the home. The main bathroom didn’t require much updating, just a lick of baby-pink paint. “It’s been black, navy and white over the years, but I really love this pink,” says Terri. Outside, a well-equipped outdoor kitchen has been added and the exterior painted Dulux Natural White. “It’s a pretty house,” she says. “We get a lot of comments about it, which makes us happy.”

very much front of mind when I was designing the bedrooms.” The kitchen also had its storage radically enhanced with the addition of a butler’s pantry, which has made a huge difference to Terri, who’s a keen cook. “I designed built-in spice drawers and oil drawers, so it’s tailored to the way I like to use the kitchen. I always wanted a black kitchen and I was confident that one would suit this house.” Another key inclusion in the kitchen is its formed-concrete benchtops. “I looked at loads of English kitchens and admired their semi-industrial concrete benches,” says Terri. “I did a lot of research before putting them in but we’ve still been surprised at how easily they stain. With three kids, I can’t be precious about olive oil and lemon juice marks. That said, the more we hammer our benches, the better they’re looking.”

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MAIN BATHROOM Black Sol bathroom floor tiles look striking with the Dulux Naked Lady walls. The free-standing bath is by Caroma. CHLOE’S ROOM (above) The wallpaper is by Cole & Son and the bedhead is custom-made. CHARLIE’S ROOM (left) Artwork by Sara Winfield, Bird and Thistle wallpaper by Brunschwig & Fils.

CHARLIE’S ROOM

Opposite top Artwork

by Sarah Winfield. Bird and Thistle wallpaper by Brunschwig & Fils.

R OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING Functioning like another room, this well-equipped space off the kitchen is situated near the swimming pool and was added during this renovation project.

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A new turn The renovation project was incredibly complex, but perseverance has reaped beautiful rewards for the owners of this home by the sea Text Sarah Pickette Photography Tom Ferguson Styling Archisoul Architects

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LIVING Old meets new in the living area, with high-performance glass sitting comfortably alongside the restored early 20th-century chimney. An automated Silent Gliss curtain track is set into the marine-ply ceiling. Underfloor heating is linked to the homeautomation system so it can be turned on from anywhere.

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“A neat Juliet balcony at the rear of the house allows the owners privacy and great airflow without having to cede too much bedroom space.” J O G I L L I ES, ARC H I T E CT

here’s no such thing as the too-hard basket for Jo Gillies, director of Archisoul Architects. If there was, this renovation would surely be in it. The owners of this early 1900s semi-detached house, or semi, contacted Jo, having seen an Archisoul sign outside another heritage project, to enquire about renovating their property. Jo and her design team took on the job and soon struck their first challenge: council planning officials insisted the adjoining semi be renovated at the same time. “The owners convinced their neighbour to bring his renovation plans forward. So we had two different briefs, two budgets and two timelines to work to with our one builder,” she says. “One homeowner lived in Europe, which meant lots of late-night phone calls, and we acted as the contracts administrator for one semi but not the other. And when we began the project, we had no idea of the building’s historical significance.” It turns out that the cottages were built by local fishermen who would drag their wooden boat out

from the house to the nearby ocean to conduct daring sea rescues in the early 20th century. “The brothers were pioneers of the surf-lifesaving movement as we know it today,” says Jo. “It was our heritage consultant who discovered this; none of the homeowners had any inkling.” Archisoul Architects has carved out a niche for itself as a firm that specialises in heritage work, so the team understood how to approach this complicated project. The facades of the semis, and their two front sitting rooms, were retained and restored. In the semi on the right [the home featured here], the brick fireplace was also saved. “We protected it with ply and ropes while the house was demolished around it,” says Jo. The floor plan today bears little resemblance to the original layout – “there was no flow, rooms were tacked onto rooms” – and it’s now a light-filled family home with an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area and a whole new level upstairs. A trip to a kitchen showroom saw the homeowners fall instantly in love with the Leicht European styling and craftsmanship they saw. “They adore the concealed extraction fan that pulls air into a vent in the island

REAR EXTERIOR A sliding door recesses completely to create a Juliet balcony. Automated external venetian blinds work as a solar shade. ABOVE The sensitively designed first-floor extension is barely visible from the street. OPPOSITE Miele ovens are set into charcoal cabinetry. Modern plaster was removed to reveal the original chimney brickwork. A downdraft extraction system is neatly hidden in the island bench, which is topped with Caesarstone in Snow.

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“The old floorboards were repurposed to create a vanity in the ensuite.” J O G I L L I ES, A RC H IT ECT

BEDROOM This calming space features Walter Knoll Oki brass tables and a Fabricus armchair. The curtains are hung from a Silent Gliss automated track. WALK-IN WARDROBE Mafi engineeredoak floorboards are used throughout the first floor.

bench. This works well with the kitchen’s integrated appliances and handle-free cabinetry.” A slimline timber dining table fits neatly in with the island cabinetry and beautiful Vitrocsa steel doors open the area up to the greenery outside. The kitchen and dining areas are flooded with light, thanks to the glass hallway floor above that’s positioned beneath a generous skylight. This hallway accommodates a home office area and links a child’s bedroom at the front of the house with the main bedroom, which has a walk-in wardrobe, ensuite and Juliet balcony. “We treated the update of this home very sensitively,” says Jo. “The extension is barely visible from the street. We reused materials and far exceeded the minimum environmental requirements. Sustainability to me means a return to wholeness and that’s something that, through a collaborative design process, we’ve achieved for this home.” 86

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SHOP THEIR STYLE Simple silhouettes, neutral hues and shiny metallic finishes bring sophisticated minimalism to the fore 3

6 5

4 7

8 12 11

1 Naaz vessel in white, $54.95, from Freedom. 2 Rogue artificial lemon beauty vine, $24.95, from Freedom. 3 Jamesport sofa, $8575 (3.5 seat), from Coco Republic. 4 Hans Wegner replica Wishbone chair in beech, $325, from Cintesi. 5 Raised gold planter, $179, from Amara. 6 Resene Black White paint, $4.80 (testpot), from ColorShops. 7 Hasami porcelain bowl in natural, $109 (extra large), from Simon James. 8 Piet Boon knife set base, $649, from Simon James. 9. Gonal decorative bowl, $79.95, from Freedom. 10. Resene Half Gull Grey paint, $4.80 (testpot), from ColorShops. 11. Nomad marble coffee table, $3495, from Coco Republic. 12 Abram floor lamp, $329, from Freedom.

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Welcome change COLORSTEEL® can transform the look of your home from ordinary to extraordinary with ease

ransforming a home doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes the best ideas are the simplest. In the case of Colorsteel®, this can be as easy as changing the roof. There are also many more ways this proudly New Zealand-made steel can change the aesthetic of any home using exterior cladding in place of more traditional materials, such as timber or brick.

COLORSTEEL® cladding

The trend for Colorsteel® as exterior cladding is increasing because it allows architects and homeowners to achieve a contemporary look that integrates well with other modern materials, such as cedar and concrete. With barn-like forms to industrial styles, the architectural design potential is endless. A fire-resistant, lightweight material, Colorsteel® is also quick and easy to install and can be easily recycled in the future.

YH&G + COLORSTEEL® ON THE OUTSIDE Made tough to withstand New Zealand’s harshest environments, Colorsteel® is an on-trend choice for exterior cladding. It integrates well with contemporary designs as well as more traditional homes.

before “For more than 35 years, Colorsteel® has been helping New Zealanders transform everything from the humble Kiwi bach to architectural masterpieces.”

Refresh with COLORSTEEL®

A re-roof of your home might seem an unwanted activity, but thinking of your re-roof project as a chance to breathe new life into your homes external appearance is an opportunity not to be missed. The impact of re-roofing with Colorsteel® can be like you’ve just moved into a new home! Changing from a dated tiled roof to Colorsteel® is easy and the results impressive with a selection of profiles to perfectly match the character of your home. Even if you have an existing long run steel roof, a change in profile from corrugate to a sleek and modern trapezoidal or tray profile will suddenly make your home look brand new. Or, simply transform your everyday with a new colour for your roof. Colorsteel® has a wide range to choose from, inspired by the colours and landscapes that surround us. The right colour will work harmoniously with the rest of your home and surrounding environment, but most importantly should reflect your own style and personality. Turn metal into magic and be inspired with Colorsteel.®

For more than 35 years, Colorsteel® has been helping New Zealanders transform everything from the humble Kiwi bach to architectural masterpieces, whether it’s a renovation or a new home, interior or exterior. Colorsteel® protects the places you live, work and play. It’s low maintenance and durable, and made in New Zealand for New Zealand conditions. Ask for genuine Colorsteel® for your project. For inspiration and samples, go to colorsteel.co.nz

R E N O VAT I O N W O R K S H O P

Winter warmers

From heat pumps to insulation and the toastiest gas fires, here’s how to make sure your home is nice and cosy when the temperature drops Text Bea Taylor

R 1 Rolf rug, $1690, from Citta. 2 Pebble weave rug, $3465, from Nodi Rugs. 3 Loom hand-woven rug, $1559, from Father Rabbit. 4 Zane Ivory Tribal Pattern wool rug, from $510, from Miss Amara.

PHOTOGRAPHY ARE MEDIA SYNDICATION, KATE CLARIDGE, THE VIRTUE

efore you start blasting heaters, be aware warming your home for winter starts with two important steps – insulation and ventilation.

Insulation

“A house with good ceiling and underfloor insulation can reduce heat loss by up to 50 percent,” says Liz Ross, eco design advisor for Auckland City Council. Heat travels from warm areas to cold areas so if your home is warm but the outside temperature is cooler, the heat will escape. Insulation provides a barrier of resistance against heat transfer, which is expressed as an ‘R-value’. The higher the R-value, the more effective your insulation will be. Proper insulation ensures that heat isn’t leaving your home faster than you can generate it. Builderscrack estimates insulation costs to range from $70-$160 for every 5sqm.

Other top insulators

Rugs As well as providing relief for bare feet, rugs stop heat loss through the floor. Draught stoppers Cool draughts can sneak in through gaps between doors and floors but draught stoppers will help. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) also suggests checking hinges and latches are tight, adding weather stripping to seal gaps around doors and windows, and blocking chimneys of unused fireplaces with a rubbish bag filled with shredded newspaper. Curtains Poorly fitted curtains can create a ‘reverse chimney’ effect and bring cold air in, but properly fitted curtains can be as good as double glazing. Curtains should sit snug on the floor and cover the entire window, to stop the cold air that forms near windows escaping into the room. Make sure the fabric is thick enough too.

Ventilation

This is essential for maintaining air quality and removing excess moisture. If a house is airtight, it will be easier to heat, but ventilation is needed to stop air from becoming stale and damp. If your house needs help, a ventilation system (prices start at around $2000) or a dehumidifier (around $150) will effectively and automatically do this. Remember to dry your clothes outside as much as you can and open up windows and doors (even in winter) to let the stale air out and invite fresh air in. YOU R HO ME AN D GARDEN

Heat pumps

Air purifiers

If you’re worried about the quality of air in your home and you want something to heat simultaneously, Dyson’s new Purifier Hot+Cool ($999) and Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde will do both jobs. Designed to capture ultra-fine dust and allergens, as well as destroying VOCs including formaldehyde – a colourless gas pollutant released by furniture and wood products – they’ll provide a far better quality of air by sensing formaldehyde with a new solid-state sensor to remove 99.95 percent of particles. Considering we breathe in up to 9000 litres of air each day, that can only be a good thing.

1 Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde, $1099.

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For large rooms that are heated regularly, look at fixed heating options such as heat pumps. With lower running costs and more heat output than portable electric heaters, they’re usually worth the upfront cost. Jose George, Canstar New Zealand general manager, says, “getting professional advice on choosing the size of your heat pump is critical because an undersized unit will need to work a lot harder, using more electricity, and may still struggle to heat or cool.” Some heat pumps come with built-in air filtration systems designed to improve air quality. Look out for a blue butterfly logo, which is a sign that the heat pump has been approved by the Asthma Foundation NZ Sensitive Choice Program. The World Health Organisation recommends living areas should be heated to a minimum of 18°C (20°C for children and the elderly) and bedrooms be heated to 16°C at night. “For every degree higher you set your heat pump, you use 10 percent more electricity,” says Liz Ross. She recommends setting your heat pump between 18-21°C. There are three main heat pump systems to consider for your home: Single room Consisting of a single outdoor unit (the compressor) connected to an indoor unit, this is a good option for one open plan space. Multi-split If you’re looking to heat more than one room in your house, consider a multi-split system. This consists of multiple indoor units connected to one larger outdoor compressor and allows you to heat and cool a number of rooms and individually. Ducted Designed to maintain one perfect temperature throughout the whole house, ducted heat pump systems are an efficient alternative to gas central heating. It’s more discreet than a wall-mounted heat pump, but it also comes with a higher price tag. A ducted heat pump system consists of one large compressor, which sends hot or cold air to each room via floor or ceiling ducts in the house. Liz adds a note of caution, however, “Unless you pay for zone control features, you may waste energy heating parts of the house you are not using.” 2 Mitsubishi Electric 6.0kW Black Diamond LN50 high wall heat pump, $3779, from Smith’s City. 3 Mitsubishi Electric 3.7kW EcoCore high wall heat pump, $1699, from Smith’s City. 4 Akai 3.2KW Reverse Cycle Split System heat pump, $699, from Bunnings.

Be inspired Browse our range at mico.co.nz, or talk to a consultant at a showroom near you.

HEATING CATALOGUE OUT NOW

0800 844 448

www.mico.co.nz

1 Dimplex Alta panel heater, from $179.97, from Mico. 2 Kensington micathermic heater 2400W in black, $99, from The Warehouse.

“Unless you pay for zone control features, you may waste energy heating parts of the house you are not using.” LIZ ROSS

Electric heaters

For a cheaper option that doesn’t require installation, consider an electric heater. Look for those with a built-in thermostat, timer and fan. These will help save you time and money. You’ll want to make sure your electric heater has enough wattage to heat up your room. For a small room (10-13sqm) 1500W will be sufficient, a medium room (13-17sqm) will require a 2000W heater and a larger room (up to 20sqm) will need 2400W.

Oil column and convection heaters

These types of heaters provide good ambient and background warmth. They produce hot air, which then rises and slowly circulates around the room by natural convection. While they can provide a good amount 94

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of heat for bedrooms and smaller living rooms, they struggle to heat rooms with high ceilings evenly and effectively. Expect to pay anywhere from $70-$450.

Micathermic heaters

for a short period of time. Fan heater prices can range from $39 to $650, depending on brand and quality.

Panel heaters

With a similar shape to an oil column heater, it’s easy to get these two mixed up. Micathermic heaters provide a comfortable background heat as well as toasty radiant heat. Expect to pay $150 or more. They heat up quicker than oil column heaters and are lighter and more portable. But, their surface can get quite hot, which could pose a safety hazard for children and pets.

Panel heaters are promoted as cheap to run, however, they produce very little heat. Because of this low output, they can take a very long time to warm up a room. They have a lower surface temperature, which makes them safer to have around children or pets. These types of heaters are only good for continual heating in small rooms like bedrooms or studies with prices ranging from $80 to $400.

Fan heaters

Gas heaters

Fan heaters provide quick, directional heat to small areas. They can be noisy but are effective when it comes to distributing hot air around a room. They’re perfect for heating small spaces

The EECA only recommend unflued or portable gas heaters as back-up heating during power cuts as they come with health and fire risks, and can make your home damp and mouldy.

Radiator central heating

When it comes to silent, safe and effective heating, we might need to take a leaf from the Brits. Radiators in the past have got a bad wrap for their clunky appearance, but new designs such as the Scirocco Brick Radiator from Central Heating New Zealand (right), prove this is no longer the case. A radiator central heating system uses warm water pipes that run throughout the house to provide even heat. They can be individually controlled or as a system, and are responsive, meaning they heat up or cool down quickly, which is ideal for Kiwi homes. While this water transfer central heating system is more efficient than air transfer systems, they are also more expensive to install. When it comes to installation, radiator central heating will often require new pipework, therefore older houses with generous underfloor space are best suited to retrofit. Otherwise, look to include this in the design when building your new home.

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Style tip We all want to look chic by the fireplace. Try these accessories to finish the look.

1 Woodsman Serene Ultra Low Emission burner woodfire, $3348.89, from Mico.

Fireplaces

There’s nothing quite like a toasty fire in winter to warm the cockles of your heart. Wood burners are considered carbonneutral, because wood is a renewable resource. However if a wood fire isn’t an option in your home, gas and electric fires offer a similar experience.

Why a fireplace? Q&A with Malcom Burton, Stoke Fireplace Studio

What are the main differences between gas, wood and electric fireplaces? The main differences are in heat output and installation requirements. Wood fires kick out the most heat, but it’s not instant, consistent or able to be thermostatically controlled, like it is for electric and gas. A modern gas fireplace comes pretty close to the real deal in terms of authentic looking fuelbeds and flame pattern. It can kick out over 10kW of heat too, which is a bit more than an electric fireplace’s heat output, which generally sits under 2kW. How can people ensure their fireplace is energy efficient? First, look at the star rating (the more stars the better). Many gas fireplaces have 5-star efficiency ratings and the cost to run these is comparable to a wood fire. Secondly, go for a glass-fronted gas fireplace, not open-fronted, as it is more efficient. Lastly, look at the flue system or chimney. Go for a ‘direct vent system’. These systems can make a fire up to 95 percent 96

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efficient, compared to an open-fronted fireplace at around 45 percent. Are they a hazard for children? Wood fires are hot-to-touch, so if you have children or pets close by, you should put a fire guard in front of or around the fire. The glass on gas fires can get hot too. Electric fires aren’t hot to touch. How expensive is a fireplace to run? It’s heavily dependant on how you use it and how often. Running costs between gas and wood fires are actually quite similar. Electric fires only require a power outlet, so the cost will be similar to a wall heater with the same kWs. How difficult is it to install a fireplace in a two-storey house? It’s usually no trouble to install a gas or electric fire in a two-storey house or apartment. Electric fires only need a plug to work, so as long as you have a power outlet, you’re good to go. Some gas fires have flexible flue systems which, like Escea’s, can extend up to 40m long. Wood fires can be a little tricker to install in older homes because most need a vertical flue and special heat-rated materials. If you’re building brand new, you won’t need to worry as the fire, surround and flue system will be drawn into the plans. What’s new in fireplace technology and design? Fireplaces are available in contemporary shapes now. Smartphone control has also transformed the way we use gas fires. Escea uses a SmartHeat app, which is great when you’re finishing work and want to return to a warm house.

2 Eldvarm companion set Emma fireplace accessories in British racing green, $1113, from Amara. 3 DF990 high output gas fireplace, $6995 from Escea.

Easy Living

Liven up your home with an Ambe Electric Fireplace. • The look and ambience of a real life fire, without the mess or maintenance. • Easy to install and no flue required. • Simple touch panel or remote control operation. • Interchangeable fuelbeds and 30 LED colour combinations. • Great room feature for year round style and comfort. • Safe to touch.

ambehome.com

Tip For a wood fire, it’s important to only burn dry wood that’s been seasoned for at least a year, to enjoy clean heat.

R Extra heat

Hot water bottles While these certainly have a nostalgic feel-good factor, it’s worth noting the burn risk involved. Always use a cover to prevent contact burns and make sure water is not boiling. Regularly check your hot water bottle for cracks or splits. Electric blankets If you’re considering an electric blanket, you don’t need to buy the most expensive. In a recent study, Consumer found minimal differences in heating performance between the most expensive and the cheapest. However, the more expensive models provided extra features, such as timer settings, woollen fleece covers and ‘warm foot zones’. Regularly check electric blankets for damage (especially around the controller) and replace if it’s had anything spilt on it or if it’s got any kinks. Make sure you store your blanket rolled up instead of folded and don’t store any heavy items on it. Throws Even in the warmest homes, a cosy blanket to tuck your feet under while watching a movie is a must in winter.

1 Nevis Throw rug in rose, $229, from Weave Home. 2 Twill Wool throw, $259, from Citta. 3 Living & Co electric blanket, $60, from The Warehouse. 4 Sunbeam electric blanket, $240, from Farmers.

“Take advantage of free heat from the sun, every square metre of north-facing window area that gets sun is equal to running a small panel heater.” LIZ ROSS

Heating in rentals

If there is fixed heating in your rental, your landlord is responsible for maintaining it. Since July 2019, ceiling and underfloor insulation became compulsory in all rental homes, where it is reasonably practical to install. If you don’t think your rental meets insulation requirements, talk to your landlord and if you can’t resolve it with them, visit tenancy.govt.nz to report a breach. YO U R H OME AN D GARDEN

CHANGE STARTS WITH EXPLORING

The rug burner. The internal hot spot. The cat magnet. Humble warmth warrior. Swiss alps outside. Fiji on the inside. Boots off, jandals on, and cranked up high. It’s been the enabler of Kiwi creature comforts for yonks. It’s let us drift off to sleep with no duvet in sight. It’s helped us spend our nights watching long movies in short sleeves. And It’s allowed us to wear stubbies around Dunedin ﬂats in the middle of June. Heaters have kept Kiwis lounging about through

EAT INDOORS

countless winters. And with zero carbon gas on the way, they won’t be hibernating any time soon. Here’s to changing the world, without changing too much of yours. See how gasischanging.co.nz

Think pink After stripping back layers of wallpaper and re-plastering, this makeover room was painted a soft, modern pink. It's the ideal backdrop for the dramatic rose and terracotta bedding. For more about this charming home turn the page.

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MAKEOVER 104

Coming up roses A clever revamp of a ’70s unit.

PHOTOGRAPHY THE VIRTUE

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Forever flowers DIY your own dried floral arrangement.

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Shelf beliefs 30 storage hacks for more space. YOU R H O ME A ND GARDEN

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EXTERIOR Rebecca Hall says the property used to be “a bit of a fish bowl”, so one of the first things she did was erect fencing around the perimeter for privacy. With encouragement from landscape designer Michael Mansvelt, she decided to paint the exterior brick in a dark inky blue.

It’s all coming up roses

Hard work and savvy budgeting has helped this first-time homeowner transform her ’70s brick unit one room at a time Text Bea Taylor Photography The Virtue

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BEFORE

Meet & greet Rebecca Hall (administrator) and Ivy the rabbit.

me to do it all at once. The bedroom, lounge and kitchen were done first. I was lucky to be living with my parents when I took over the property and started renovating, it made it a lot easier and quicker. It’s a small house, which is also an advantage. Being a first-time homeowner, the size meant my reno goals weren’t unachievable.

hen Rebecca Hall clapped eyes on the 53sqm 1970s Huntly brick unit in New Plymouth, she saw the opportunity to star in her very own The Block NZ, or perhaps more aptly, “Bec’s Block NZ”. With a limited budget and help from her teammates – family and friends – she has transformed the once worn-down unit into a bright and welcoming first home.

What has been the biggest challenge? Money, money, money. Everything always costs more than what you think. I also want everything done now, but I’m learning to just be happy doing one space at a time. What was the biggest thing you learned? Discovering that I can do a lot on my own. I installed the tiles in the kitchen myself. I did a lot of research and watched many YouTube tutorials. In the end, I was quite confident – it was like icing a cake!

When did you buy your house? I brought the house in 2019 through a private sale. I liked that it was small and would be low maintenance for myself. It meant that whatever I did would not be too much work to handle on my own – and the location was a plus.

What has been your favourite moment during the process? Choosing the design, colours, materials and interior styling on my own. I have loved creating my own space with my own taste and having all the things that I enjoy.

Tell us about the buying process. It was a private sale. Family friends of ours own the unit next door and told me about it. We got in touch with the owner, had one quick viewing and decided to buy it. The process was hassle-free – the owner named the price and I was happy with it, so we worked through the process with our lawyers.

What was your budget and how have you kept to it? $10,000 was what I thought it would be but spent about 50 percent over. So, it ended up around $15,000.

What were the main parts of the house you wanted to fix? I really wanted the whole house fixed and renovated because it was so dated and rundown. But I had to prioritise the key rooms as my budget wouldn’t allow for 10 6

Were you daunted about doing it up? Not really. I come from a family of DIYers and we all love a project. My parents renovated a rental property and we all pitched in to help, so I knew what to expect. It was almost like our very own The Block NZ. So, I was very eager to start ‘Bec’s Block’. Having the final say on colour choices and materials was a highlight – even if I still had to run them past the ‘Hall Block Committee’.

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Where did you save and where did you splurge? I saved on materials. I couldn’t afford to gut the rooms and reline the jib, so I stripped all the wallpaper back, then skim coated and painted instead. It took longer but it saved me a lot. I splurged on items like the curtains and blinds. They weren’t originally in the budget and to date they have been the most expensive purchase for the

CONSERVATORY Sunset tones dominate this sunny spot. Rebecca found the cane couch on Marketplace and reupholstered it to work with her style. The pillows on the couch are from The Warehouse, Spotlight and Farmers. She chose Dulux Gamelan for the concrete wall behind.

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Style tip Glass furniture and shiny surfaces will help to bounce light around a room, making a small space feel bigger.

LOUNGE The brass console, coffee table and mirror are all from Freedom. Prints by Kiwi artist Maiko Nagao feature on the walls and a rug from Farmers ties the space together. Rebecca says buying custom curtains for her home was one of the best decisions she made.

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“It’s a small house, which is an advantage. Being a first-time homeowner, the size meant my reno goals weren’t unachievable.” R EBECCA H AL L

BEFORE

KITCHEN Simple changes have gone a long way in transforming this kitchen. Rebecca has retrofitted the kitchen cabinets, tiled the walls and changed the light fitting. The coffee and tea canisters are from Citta and the tea set and glasses are from T2. Rebecca loves baking, usually for family and friends, she made this cake for a charity event.

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house, but was totally worth it. They’re all custom made. The wooden blinds allow privacy in the kitchen, the sunblock blinds give shade and privacy in summer and the curtains make the space feel bigger. What is your favourite room in the house? Hands down the kitchen. It’s the latest room to be improved. I love to bake and it’s such a treat having a clean, fresh and functional area to work in. What is something you’ve learnt about your house while transforming it? Everything always takes double or triple the time you think it will to complete. And a budget always takes longer to save than spend it. Have you done most of the work yourself? Yes. And when I say yes, I mean with the help of family members. All that was expected in return was to make sure everyone was well fed. BEDROOM Rebecca’s rosy-coloured palette continues into the bedroom with her duvet from Domani, the pink pillowcases from Foxtrot Home and the gingham pillowcases from Citta. Her creative pursuits extend well beyond cake decorating and interior styling, she also made the dried floral arrangement on the mirror.

Has your vision evolved throughout the process? Not really. Before I settled on the house I knew exactly the colours I wanted and the style of furniture I was going to buy. I had bought a lot of the furniture before even settling on the house. I always envisioned a subtropical garden for the exterior – and that hasn’t changed either. What inspired your gorgeous colour choice in your bedroom? I love pink and thought ‘why not?’ If Lisa on The Block NZ can do a pink wall and win, it can’t be that unappealing. But finding the right pink was key. The walls are Dulux Half Haast and the feature pink wall is Berger Paints Pink Note. Two years on and I’m still in love. What was your inspiration for the exterior makeover? The inspiration was sub-tropical beachside. I had Michael Mansvelt [landscape designer] in for a consult and he suggested painting the brick dark blue to help the unit stand out against the others. This area is still to be developed due to budget. What are you most looking forward to doing next? The bathroom and laundry. These two areas are going to be a full gut and redo!

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M Tell us what you’ve done to it and why?

BEFORE

• Put in a fence to create privacy. • Updated the bedroom by stripping back four layers of wallpaper, re-plastering and re-painting all the walls. • Transformed the conservatory by removing the MDF boards used for the walls and exposing the concrete block wall, which I painted in a fun feature colour. I also removed the door from the lounge into the conservatory to create more room and flow. I installed sunblock blinds, which help reduce heat in this room during summer, and also work as a privacy screen. • Updated the lounge by stripping back three layers of wallpaper, re-plastering and painting the walls. I purchased a second-hand sliding door that will be added off the lounge onto the future decking area for when the house gets landscaped and when budget will allow for these things. • Gave the kitchen a new look by stripping back the wallpaper and removing a wall cabinet to create the appearance of more space. I also took out the door into the lounge to create better flow between these two spaces and installed a new benchtop. I retrofitted new doors and handles on the existing kitchen cupboards and tiled the splashback with subway tiles.

“I have loved creating my own space with my own taste and having all the things that I enjoy.” R E B EC CA H AL L

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COLOUR HOME AWARDS FINALIST N° 6

Bold hues inject personality and fun into every corner of this lively family home Text Bea Taylor Photography Rachel Wybrow

COLOUR HOME AWARDS 2021

Winner revealed next issue

olour choice can often be a tricky decision, but Philippa Masoe finds it intuitive. When asked why she picked the range of whites, burnt oranges, slate greys and dark blues for her home, she says simply, “Because I liked them.” “I like the idea of a room having an identity, and these colours give each room that,” she says. Her favourite colour is Resene Sante Fe, chosen for the entrance thanks to the colour inspiration from a pair of nude coloured Menu salt and pepper grinders. “It’s warm and welcoming and makes you feel relaxed as soon as you walk through the front door.” Resene Black White appears all throughout the house alongside Resene Atlas in the main bedroom, Resene Licorice in the spare bedroom, Resene Tuna in Amelia’s room and Resene Wedgewood in the boys’ room. Colour choice might come naturally to Philippa, but convincing Amelia that the elegant grey of Resene Tuna was the right choice for her room, was a feat in itself. “She didn’t like the idea of a dark wall and ceiling. I had to convince her that we’d put heaps of fun colours all around the room and now she loves it. We can mix and match anything in there.”

Meet & greet Philippa Masoe (physiotherapist) and Lemi Masoe (apprentice builder), Amelia, seven, Richie, five, and Davey, three.

More Resene colours to try:

RESENE Blue Lagoon

RESENE Shilo

RESENE Ayers Rock

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Forever

FLOWERS

Make Mum’s day with a standout floral arrangement she’ll enjoy evermore Project and styling Sam van Kan Photography Wendy Fenwick

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M Step-by-step guide

hen designing your dried floral arrangement think about colour, texture and height. Select flowers and foliage in various sizes and colours for visual interest and remember if something isn’t looking right, gently pull it out and place it somewhere else.

You’ll need: Vase/vessel – an opaque glass or ceramic one works best so you don’t see the stems Chicken wire or floral netting Flower snips Dried flowers and foliage.

Flowers that dry well:

1 Prepare the vase by arranging the floral netting or chicken wire at the neck. Make sure it is secure.

2 Start the arrangement with foliage, which will help to frame and shape the look. We created an asymmetrical form, where one side is higher than the other.

• Roses, hydrangeas,

gomphrena (globe amaranths), strawflowers, achillea (yarrows), statice (sea lavender), eryngium (sea holly) and gypsophila (baby’s breath) hold their colour well. • Palm leaves, toe toe and ornamental grasses are good for texture and height.

Drying flower tips: • Air dry flowers by hanging

them upside down on a length of dowel. Make sure the stems are straight and the flowers aren’t too blown out. The best time to dry flowers, such as roses, is just before they begin to fully open. • Make sure the flowers don’t hang too close together so that air can circulate between them and keep them out of direct sunlight. • Drying flowers in a dark room will help preserve their colour. • Leave flowers to dry for 2-4 weeks.

3 Add in flowers to break up the foliage and bring in some colour. Think about balancing out the arrangement with texture, colour and height.

4 Lastly, add height with seed pods or single stems.

Wall painted in Resene Quarter Pavlova. Astier de Villatte Setsuko fruit stand, $629, from Tessuti. Monmouth Glass Studio hand-blown tumbler, $79, from Everyday Needs. Rania concrete pear, $34, from Father Rabbit. Wave lemon candle, $40, from Arowm. White pitcher, $69 (large), from Father Rabbit. Rustic nail, $9.50, from Everyday Needs. Dowel painted in Resene I Do.

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WORKSHOP

Shelf

improvement Clutterbugs be gone! Here are our top 30 hacks for organising your home Text Rebecca Barry Hill 116

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M Style tip Open shelving is a chance to display cookbooks and a visually interesting stack of plates, bowls and glasses. 2

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1 Ambia-Line Legrabox drawer, $500.69 (500mm), from Blum. 2 Culinary Co 1.7L glass canister, $6.50, from Spotlight. 3 Kate’s Kitchen 80ml spice jar, $3, from Spotlight. 4 Riley 1L canister, $14.95, from Freedom. 5 Pantry 10-piece starter pack, $99.95, from ClickClack.

ver wondered how some people manage to keep on top of the mess in their homes without looking like they’re trying? “A place for everything and everything in its place” is a great rule of thumb for staying tidy. But if you don’t have a solid storage system, trying to find a home for those oblong salad platters, spare keys or bulky hair tongs won’t be easy. Never fear – here are our top home organising hacks.

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Kitchen

If you haven’t used an item in 12 months (hello, tapioca flour), throw it out. Not only will you reduce clutter, you’ll have a better handle on what not to buy, saving you money in the long-run. Install rolling shelves with low sides in the pantry to ensure items are easily accessible (rather than deep cabinets that can make it difficult to remove items from near the back.) Group items in the pantry – rices with pastas, flours with sugars – to make prep-time easier. Remove the packaging from small items, such as muesli bars, and keep snack items together in a basket so you can easily see what you have. Store dried foods in clear airtight containers or jars. “This way you can see how much is left of a product,” says

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Even the best of us have a drawer full of miscellaneous things. These can be kept in order by using clear sliders, making items such as pens, keys or batteries easier to find. Keep plates, mugs and cutlery as close to the dishwasher as possible. This helps cut down on time spent putting clean items away. Maximise your benchtop space with a chopping board that fits over the sink. Hang your stemware – it looks neat and will save room on your shelves for other things. Organise your under-sink space. This area can easily turn into a dumping ground for old products. Use a two-tier sliding organiser or small plastic containers to keep dishwashing items tidy and hang hooks on the doors for tea and hand towels.

7 Hannah Stickland of organisation service Simplify My Home. “It’s like a shopping list in your mind – you’ll remember those empty jars at the supermarket.” Likewise, she recommends using a drawer to store cans and another for spices. Cans take up a lot of space, and all those tins of chickpeas and baked beans have a tendency to disappear towards the back of the pantry. By lying them flat, facing upwards, you can instantly see what you’ve got.

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Laundry

Install a single shelf for regularly used items and dedicate your laundry space to washing only. “You’d be amazed at the stuff we see that creeps into laundries,” says Amanda Stickland (Hannah’s sister-in-law) of Simplify My Home. “Keep it decluttered and just have the one shelf for basics such as washing powder and soap.” Decant powders and liquids into jars so you can see at a glance how much of a product you have left.

Modular laundry unit, from $1170, from PlaceMakers.

Bedroom

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Maximise your closet space by editing your clothes, Marie Kondo-style. Asking yourself ‘does this spark joy?’ while holding each individual item will help you to part with clothing you no longer need. Think of it as creating a capsule wardrobe. Hang everything on velvet coat-hangers. “They’ve very slimline and you’ll fit more into the space,” says Hannah. “Nothing slips off.” Hang every item, other than underwear, swimwear, pyjamas and activewear. “If you don’t have the space to hang clothing, the pair recommends file-folding, whereby clothing stands up in the drawer. “In a traditional stacked open drawer, you can’t see anything under the top items,” says Hannah. “It tends to create more mess. Whereas, when you fold to create a little bundle, you can see everything.” Check out tutorials on YouTube.

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Use dividers in your drawers, wardrobe and on shelves. Baskets on shelves will eliminate the need to stack everything, creating mess. Hang handbags and belts on hooks. Try a bamboo shoe rack for high heels or lesser worn shoes.

1 3-tier stackable bamboo shoe rack, $30, from Kmart. 2 Glass wash jar, $10, from Kmart. 3 Flocked hangers, $10 (30), from Kmart.

"Hang every item, other than underwear, swimwear, pyjamas and activewear." H A N NAH ST I C K L AND YOU R HO ME A ND GARDEN

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Kids’ bedrooms

Divide and conquer: separate items such as Lego, dolls or stuffed toys into separate baskets, and label them – kids will be more inclined to tidy their rooms if they know where everything goes. Do the same for their clothing in soft cubes. Don’t keep all the toys in the room at one time. “Kids accumulate so much stuff so quickly,” says Amanda. “Put two-thirds in the garage or the attic so they can’t see it. Then once a fortnight swap them out for new toys. You’ll find they actually play with their toys more.”

Office

21 22 4 1 Beck 6-coat hook, $74.95, from Freedom. 2 Living & Co wire basket, $12, from The Warehouse. 3 3 in 1 Cubeline set of floating shelves, $48.74, from PlaceMakers. 4 Traditional wonki baskets, from $149, from Paper Plane.

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If desktop space is at a premium, try using a hanging wardrobe organiser for stationery. Open shelving is an ideal way to ensure you’ll always know where reference materials and items are – just be sure to keep them organised in storage boxes or folders. Store often-used tools in a lazy susan on your desk and spin your way to better productivity. Buy a desk with drawers in which to store your stationery and paper items, or a cabinet that fits under the desk. Attach a cork board on the wall to display your schedule or keep your to-do list in clear view.

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Style tip Once you have your home office essentials sorted, personalise it with a few treasures that give you pleasure to look at.

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Bathroom

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Use dividers to separate your make-up from your moisturisers. Keep your everyday items – such as toothbrushes, shaving and cleansing products – under the sink, and consider storing lesser used products elsewhere. “I like to keep my hair straightener and hairdryer in a basket under the vanity,” says Hannah. “I have another cabinet where I keep my fake tan, facemasks and travel bags.” You can’t polish a you-know-what, but you can store toilet paper in attractive baskets.

1 1 Oku wooden storage, from $24.90, from Paper Plane. 2 Zone Denmark Ume toothbrush mug, $46, from The Urban Studio. 3 Yamazaki-Tosca storage basket $66, from Paper Plane.

Linen cupboard

Hands up if this is the space where you toss items, shove the door shut and hope for the best? A simple decluttering process could alleviate this stress. Simplify My Home recommends taking everything out, discarding unused sheets or duvet covers that haven’t been used in ages, and grouping the remaining items. “You really only need two sets of sheets for each bed,” says Hannah. Keep sheets or towels in labelled baskets or label the shelf. Not only will this help to differentiate your kings from your king-singles (who wants to refold a sheet unnecessarily?) you’ll avoid stacks toppling when a single item is removed. If your linen cupboard is on the small side, consider storing some towels and flannels in the bathroom. Baskets under the vanity work well, as do standing towel rails; fresh towels can be replenished from the cupboard when required. “And you’ll always have a flannel on hand during bath-time,” says Hannah.

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You may not know it yet, but PlaceMakers is your next stop for a stylish and high-quality interior. Whether you’re building new or renovating, PlaceMakers has all the Kitchen, Bathroom, Laundry, and Wardrobe solutions to bring your home to life! We stand behind our products and offer warranties across our ranges to give you peace of mind. Specialist consultants in our inspirational showrooms can help you from concept through to creation of your beautiful stylish interiors.

To be inspired, check out the range of catalogues online, or book a free consultation today!

placemakers.co.nz/interiors

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Whip up a batch of these chia crepes with caramelised banana and black sesame seeds to show your mum how much she means to you this Mother’s Day. SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

¾ cup plain flour 1 Tbsp white chia seeds 2½ Tbsp coconut sugar ½ tsp cinnamon 1 cup milk or almond milk ½ cup water 30g coconut oil, melted 4 bananas, halved lengthways ¾ cup yoghurt 2 Tbsp blueberries 2 tsp black sesame seeds

FOOD

Mother of all crepes

1 Combine the flour, chia seeds, 2 tsp of

PHOTOGRAPHY ARE MEDIA SYNDICATION

the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Make a well in the centre; gradually whisk in the milk and water until smooth. Stand for 20 minutes. 2 Heat a 26cm nonstick frying pan over a high heat. Lightly grease with some of the coconut oil. Pour ½ cup of the batter into the centre of the pan, tilting the pan to coat the base in a thin layer; cook for 1 minute or until browned. Turn, cook on the other side until golden. Transfer to a plate; cover with foil to keep warm. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing with coconut oil, to make a total of 4 crepes. 3 Reduce the heat to medium-high. Sprinkle the remaining sugar on the cut side of the banana halves. Cook cut-side down in the frying pan for 1 minute or until caramelised. 4 Divide the crepes between the plates. Top with the caramelised banana, yoghurt and blueberries; sprinkle with sesame seeds.

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Fast food Simple, flavourful meals that take less than 30 minutes to make.

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Sound bites What’s new, exciting or inspiring in the food and beverage world. YO UR HO ME A N D GARDEN

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FAST

Create simple, flavourful meals in less than 30 minutes with these everyday recipes Tostadas with paprika prawns and guacamole SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

1 Stir prawns, paprika and garlic with

24 (1kg) uncooked prawns, peeled, deveined, tails intact 2 tsp smoked paprika 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 2 avocados, coarsely chopped 3 coriander roots, scraped Juice of 2 limes, plus extra lime wedges (optional) to serve 1½ Tbsp olive oil, plus extra for frying 12 small corn tortillas 100g cherry tomatoes, coarsely chopped ½ cup coriander, coarsely chopped 1 small onion, thinly sliced into rounds 1 jalapeno chilli, thinly sliced Tabasco, to serve

salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste in a bowl to coat and combine. 2 For guacamole, blend the avocados, coriander roots and lime juice in a small blender until smooth. Season to taste. 3 Add extra oil to a frying pan to 1cm deep and heat over medium heat. Fry tortillas one at a time, turning, until golden and crisp. Drain the tostadas on paper towel. Cook the prawns in the same pan, in batches, until just cooked (2 minutes). Drain on paper towels. 4 Mix tomato and coriander in a small bowl to combine and season to taste. 5 Spoon guacamole onto tostadas, top with onion, prawns, tomato mixture and jalapeno, and serve with Tabasco.

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Photography John-Paul Urizar Styling Steve Pearce Food preparation Jessica Brook

Side hustle For extra flavour, serve with grilled corn cobs sprinkled with chilli salt and a squeeze of lime juice.

Turmeric chicken skewers with chilli and coconut sambal SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

1 Boil potatoes in salted water over

750g baby golden potatoes, scrubbed and halved lengthways 50ml vegetable oil 3 sprigs fresh curry leaves ¾ tsp brown mustard seeds 1 onion, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, finely grated 1½ tsp ground turmeric 800g chicken thigh fillets, trimmed Juice of 3 limes, or to taste

medium-high heat until tender when pierced with a skewer (15-20 minutes). Drain well and transfer to a bowl. 2 Meanwhile, heat half the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat, add curry leaves and fry until crisp (30 seconds). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel. Add mustard seeds to pan and fry until they pop (30 seconds). Add onion, half the garlic and half the turmeric to the pan, and fry until onion is soft and golden (8-10 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in juice of two limes, then pour the

CHILLI AND COCONUT SAMBAL

2 Tbsp shredded coconut 3 long green chillies, finely chopped Zest of 1 lime

mixture over the potatoes. Toss to coat, season to taste and set aside. 3 Stir remaining turmeric, garlic and oil in a bowl to combine. Season to taste, add chicken and turn to coat. Thread chicken onto 8 metal skewers. Heat a char-grill pan over medium-high heat and cook chicken, in batches, until charred and cooked through (10 minutes). 4 For chilli and coconut sambal, combine ingredients with remaining lime juice in a bowl; season to taste. Serve skewers with potatoes and sambal, and scattered with curry leaves.

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Carrot and Manchego fritters with aioli SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

2 Tbsp olive oil, plus extra for shallow-frying 1 small onion, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, finely grated 3 cups coarsely grated carrot (about 6 carrots) 100g Manchego cheese, coarsely grated 100g plain flour 2 Tbsp oregano, finely chopped, plus extra leaves to serve Finely grated zest of 1 lemon, plus lemon wedges (optional), to serve 200g cherry tomatoes Aioli, to serve 1 Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a saucepan

over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and saute until tender (3-4 minutes). Tip into a large bowl, add carrot, Manchego cheese, ﬂour, oregano and zest, season to taste and mix well to combine. Form mixture into 12 rough patties and set aside on a tray. 2 Heat remaining olive oil in a frying pan over high heat, add tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until scorched and softened slightly (3-4 minutes). Transfer to a bowl and season to taste. 3 Wipe the pan clean with paper towel and pour in extra oil to 1cm deep. Heat over medium-high heat, then add the patties in batches and fry, turning once until golden brown and cooked through (5-6 minutes). Drain on paper towel and season to taste. Gently fry extra oregano leaves in the same pan until crisp (30 seconds). 4 Serve the fritters topped with scorched tomatoes and fried oregano with aioli.

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Tapas tip For a tapas-style snack make half-size fritters and top with a little jamon (dry-cured ham).

Swap it If you can’t ﬁnd japchae noodles, use rice or mung bean vermicelli.

Stir-fried japchae noodles with tofu SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

500g japchae (kūmara) noodles (see note) 60ml (¼ cup) sesame oil 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated 2 garlic cloves, finely grated 600g Chinese cabbage, coarsely chopped 200g mixed Asian mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster and black fungi, sliced 200g medium-firm tofu, sliced 125ml (½ cup) soy sauce (gluten-free, if required)

60ml (¼ cup) Shaoxing wine Thai basil leaves, spring onion and chopped roasted peanuts, to serve 1 Cook the noodles in a large saucepan

of boiling water until just tender (2-4 minutes). Drain and set aside. 2 Heat 2 Tbsp oil in a wok over a high heat and stir-fry ginger, garlic, cabbage and mushrooms until tender (2-3 minutes). Remove from the wok and set aside. Heat the remaining oil in the wok, add the tofu and fry, turning until golden and crisp at the edges

(3-4 minutes). Add the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine and stir occasionally until reduced by half (3-5 minutes). 3 Add the noodles, and cabbage mushroom mixture to the wok, season to taste with freshly ground pepper and toss to warm through (1-2 minutes). 4 Serve the noodles topped with Thai basil leaves, spring onion and peanuts. Note Japchae noodles are available from Asian supermarkets.

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Gochujang-roasted salmon and kūmara salad SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

4 small kūmara, halved lengthways 50ml sesame oil 65g (¼ cup) gochujang (see note) 2 garlic cloves, ﬁnely grated 3 tsp honey 4 salmon ﬁllets (about 180g each), skin removed, pin-boned 1 red onion, cut into wedges and thinly sliced 2 Tbsp pickled ginger, plus 60ml (¼ cup) pickling liquid 2 cups baby salad leaves 1 cup mint leaves Baby purple shiso leaves (optional), to serve

oil and roast, cut side down, until just tender (10 minutes), then turn. 2 Mix the gochujang, remaining oil, garlic and honey in a small bowl to combine. Add the salmon to the tray with the sweet potatoes, brush the salmon with gochujang mix, then bake until just cooked (10-15 minutes). 3 Toss the onion, pickled ginger and pickling liquid in a small bowl to combine. Season to taste and set aside to pickle (5 minutes). 4 Place the salad leaves, mint and shiso, if using, in a large serving bowl. Add the sweet potato and onion (discard pickling mixture), ﬂake over the salmon and serve with pan juices.

a large baking tray with baking paper. Brush the sweet potatoes with 1 Tbsp

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Note Gochujang, a fermented Korean chilli paste, is available from Asian grocers.

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Clevedon Buffalo Co, the outfit that brought in buffalo to make its famous mozzarella, is now making feta. Originally supplied to restaurants and the Clevedon farmers’ market only, it’s now available from selected food stores. Traditionally feta is made from sheep and goats’ milk but the buffalo version is revered for its delicate flavour. $18.30 for 250g. clevedonbuffalo.co.nz

LEMON DROP Gordon’s Gin has been around since 1769, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. It’s now available flavoured with lemons from Sicily, so you all you need to do is add the tonic. $42.99.

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The cult of gin keeps growing. Now the popular spirit has its very own mouth-blown, lead-free crystal glass, specifically for gin and tonic. We have it on good authority these Mavro/Lefevre for Zone Denmark glasses will fit a bottle of Fever-Tree tonic over your gin. $99 (for two) from The Urban Studio, theurbanstudio.co.nz

All the ingredients for kitchen and entertaining success One for all WORKING OU T WHIC H GLAS S I S F OR MERLOT A ND WHICH IS FOR PINOT GRIS CAN BE CONFUSING. LU CKI LY, YOU CA N’ T GO WRONG WI TH THE JA NCIS ROBINS ON ‘ONE G LAS S FOR E VERY WI NE ’ TO IM BI BE EVE RYT HING FROM CHA MPAGNE TO PORT, A ND W HI TE A ND RED WINE S. $170 F OR T WO. ATE LIE RNAS H.CO.NZ

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NOT THE PIG’S BACK NEXT! Foods has perfected a plantbased bacon – Extra Crispy Bacon Style Strips – and it is some of the best facon we’ve had. Best of all, the strips pull apart easily, sizzles as it cooks and tastes very realistic indeed. $12.98 (200g). nextfoods.co.nz YO U R HO ME A ND GARDEN

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PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY

Aztec aphrodisiac We have amateur horticulturalist and postal deliverer Rudolph Hass to thank for the buttery variety of avocado that makes smashed avo on toast so beloved by millennials. Once called ahuacate, Aztec for “testicle” and considered an aphrodisiac in ancient times, May is the perfect time for planting a grafted Hass tree in rich, well-draining soil in a warm and sunny sheltered spot.

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Constant gardener Mary Lovell-Smith’s tips for the autumn months.

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Dazzling dahlias How to grow the perennial favourite.

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The constant gardener The growing season slows down in autumn, but there’s still much to do

MARY LOV E L L- S M I T H Garden editor

May

And so to bed

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• As the nights lengthen, the ornamental garden can be put to bed. First, weed, then lay down a wodge of mulch, such as pea, oat or barley straw, composted bark, leaf litter or compost. Mulching protects vulnerable plants from frost or snow damage, helps the soil retain moisture, retards weed growth and breaks down, making the soil more friable and richer. • Mulching around trees and shrubs is similarly beneficial – just ensure the mulch is not hard up against trunks, where it can cause damage and rot.

• Perennials’ seed heads may be cut back now. However, consider leaving some to provide seeds for birds and because many will look attractive throughout winter, providing interesting silhouettes. • Any empty zones in the vegetable bed can be sown with a green manure crop, which is then cut down, allowed to dry out and later dug into the soil, ultimately benefitting the soil and subsequent crops. Most seed companies stock a range of green manure crops. • House plants need less water over winter, so reduce their intake.

Pro tips From the experts at Kings Plant Barn

Landscape 101 In nature, trees provide support for climbing plants; in the domestic garden we have to supply them ourselves if we want the best from those plants. Commonly used supports are obelisks, a four-sided, tapering shape, derived from the ancient Egyptians; and teepees, which are a cone shape modelled on the tents of the Indigenous peoples of the Great Plains and prairies of North America. Garden teepees are commonly made of natural poles. Best are straight branches such as those of bamboo, willow or mānuka, and need to be 1.5 to 2 metres long. In its simplest form, a garden teepee is at least three poles tied together at one end with string, twine or harakeke/flax or tī kōuka/cabbage tree strips. At the far end, the poles are splayed out in a circle and forced into the earth for extra stability. An extended version of this is where the poles are leant up against and support a central beam, creating a structure like a traditional tent. Both are easy enough to

make for the nimble-fingered but for others, help is at hand. Bypassing the need for tying, plastic “plates” with grooves into which the top end of the poles are inserted are available from selected retailers; as are expandable bamboo teepees, which have the poles crossing over in a diamond pattern, like some trellising. Usually constructed of wood or metal, obelisks are often sturdier than the more modest teepee. They make more of an architectural statement, are traditionally topped with a sphere, or other adornments, and can be painted or powder-coated to complement your garden or house colour. Apart from providing support for plants, both structures offer vertical elements often lacking in edible and ornamental beds. While there are no rules as to where to position them, you could take your cue from the ancient Egyptians, who placed theirs to greet and farewell the sun, and put them somewhere of significance to you and your garden.

PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY

To eat • Sow cold-weather lettuces, such as ‘Merveille des Quatre Saisons’ and ‘Red Oak’ in a sunny sheltered spot in rich soil. • Rocket, coriander, mesclun, miners’ lettuce, corn salad, spinach, snow-peas and broad beans may also be sown directly in the garden for spring harvest. And parsnips, swede and turnips, which are all slow growers. • Plant garlic and shallots, pointy side up, half as deep as the length of the bulb, 10cm apart in a sunny spot in free-draining soil. • Plant broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. • Plant citrus and strawberries. • Once leaves have fallen, spray copper on stone fruit trees with fungal diseases, such as brown rot and leaf curl.

Is there any difference between partial sun and partial shade when it comes to growing? These terms usually refer to growing conditions for certain types of plants. While these generally mean the same thing, partial shade can be dappled light instead of partial sun, which would be an area that gets sun for half the day. What’s the simplest way to improve my soil? Make sure your soil is mixed with a good amount of organic matter to help improve drainage and increase the microorganism count. Add compost, humus (dead roots and plant matter), leaf mould (dead leaf matter), organic fertiliser, worm ‘tea’ and worm castings. Refrain from keeping the soil bare as it will lose its moisture. Instead, plant out grasses, ground covers, compost crops in vegetable beds for winter, or cover with a mulch.

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How to... lime the garden

Steal this look Shade and light play together in this thoughtfully balanced planting scheme. The trees have either been limbed up, that is had their lower branches removed, or are multistemmed varieties, and of a naturally airy nature. Light filters through softly, and highlight the trees’ delicate forms and bark. Try forest pansy, hawthorn, melia or olive. The colour scheme is predominantly dichromatic – green, with white and pale flowers. Note the impatiens around the trunks and the agapanthus brightening shadier corners. No harsh or bright colours disturb the dreamy mood.

CONSIDER THIS

The square paving, too, is pale and used sparingly yet formally, in chequerboard fashion and as stepping stones. All are softened with luxurious groundcovers. For damper areas, try our pretty New Zealand native Isotoma fluviatilis, aka blue-star creeper; for dryer spots chamomile is hardy and releases delicious scents when stood upon. Consider also: dwarf Mondo grass and creeping thyme. Note how the combination of mass plantings of one plant, one-offs and plants in a variety of geometric forms, both natural and clipped, give the garden depth and interest.

You might stride down country lanes in knee-high green ones with buckles at their tops, or pick your way through downtown puddles in ankle-hugging pale-pink numbers. But for gardening around the home, nothing beats a gumboot that is easy to get on and off, preferably sans hands. Kiwi classics are the short, generously proportioned and sturdy Red Tops. Not glamorous per se they have a certain subculture allure. Less bulky, more fun – and available in way more colours and patterns – are the slip-on, clog-style gumboots (although they are of little use in really wet conditions).

Most gardens can do with an application of lime every so often, as over time soils naturally tend to get acidic. Raising the pH level, that is, making it more alkaline by adding lime (calcium carbonate), means the creatures living in the soil, from microscopic invertebrates to earthworms, function better, creating a healthier soil. It also helps plants take up essential nutrients. Liming is best done in autumn and winter to give it time to break down by spring planting. To lime your garden, just sprinkle a handful of lime per square metre of bare soil. Some plants love lime. These include fruit trees, brassicas, broad beans, garlic, onions, and peas; and bellflowers, clematis, delphinium, lilac (which especially loves it) and salvias. Avoid liming these acidlovers: azaleas, camellia, daphne, Japanese maples, pieris and rhododendrons; and blueberries, capsicums, potatoes and tomatoes.

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Dahlias The cheerful dahlia is native to Mexico and other central American countries, where they are prolific, growing like weeds. Prized by the Aztecs, who associated them with their sun gods, the dahlia is one of the easiest flowers to grow, says flower farmer and florist Erin Benzakein. In this edited extract from her book Discovering Dahlias, Erin talks about the myriad of forms from teeny pompom types, to star shapes and how the blooms are getting star billing in many a bouquet.

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PERENNIAL FAVOURITE Available in all shapes and sizes, from tall to dwarf, dahlias come in just about every colour and form you can imagine.

YO U R H OME AN D GARDEN

1 39

INFORMAL DECORATIVE

PEONY

ORCHID

Forms

Along with their range of sizes, dahlias come in a dazzling array of forms, most of which fall into one of the following groups. Some are perfectly symmetrical, with tightly spaced petals, while others have a loose, lush look. They may have different petal styles and lengths, with open centres or not. When it comes to choosing varieties, people’s preferences vary widely – some prefer cactus types, while others will

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FORMAL DECORATIVE

BALL

ORCHETTE

MINIATURE BALL

SINGLE

grow only informal decoratives. I’m personally drawn to the oddballs, including anemone, stellar, incurved cactus and orchette. Over time you might find yourself gravitating to particular classes and understanding the differences between them will help you when selecting new varieties.

How to grow

STELLAR

Dahlias are relatively easy to grow and need only a few essentials: good soil, adequate water and lots of sun. These

POMPON

MIGNON SINGLE

beauties are sensitive to the cold, and if you live in an area with cold winters you’ll need to dig up your tubers in autumn and store them until it’s time to replant in the spring.

Sun

Dahlias thrive in warm sunny weather. Plant them in a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Otherwise your plants will get leggy reaching for the light, and they won’t bloom as abundantly as possible.

SEMI CACTUS

STRAIGHT CACTUS

LACINIATED

WATER LILY

COLLARETTE

Fertile soil

One of the keys to success with dahlias is planting them in healthy soil. Dahlias do best when given plenty of organic matter, such as compost, and a generous dose of a balanced, natural fertiliser. I recommend spreading five to eight centimetres of high-quality compost over your beds, and then broadcasting a general fertiliser on top of the compost at a rate of approximately 4.5kg per 93 sqm.

NOVELTY

Mix the compost and fertiliser into the top layer of the soil using a walk-behind rototiller. If you don’t have a tiller, use a shovel or pitchfork to work the amendments evenly into the soil. Whether you grow your dahlias in rows or incorporate them into your existing landscape, the soil prep is the same. It’s also important that your soil drains well, since standing water, or wet clay that holds moisture over extended periods of time, can cause tubers to rot.

INCURVED CACTUS

ANEMONE

NOVELTY FULLY DOUBLE

If you don’t have a spot that’s freely draining, you can create raised beds so that excess water will drain away.

Space

If you’re growing dahlias in your landscape among other plants, they’ll require a bit more space than those in rows – give each dahlia a minimum of 90cm on each side to spread out. If you’re growing them in rows, I suggest planting two rows per 90cm-wide bed,

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“Growing naturally takes more effort and attention, but pays off in the quality of the flowers and in you and your family’s health.” E R I N BE NZ A K E I N

spacing the rows 46cm apart with 30cm between plants. This is the spacing we use at our farm for every size of dahlia, and while it may seem tighter than you’re used to, the plants will do just fine if you harvest from them regularly and provide plenty of support.

Disease treatment

Like any plants, dahlias are prone to bacterial, viral and fungal diseases when stressed. The following are the main types. The most common bacterial disease in dahlias is crown gall, which is identified by bumpy, cauliflower-like growths around the neck of the tubers, or large growths on the tuber clump. There is not treatment for crown gall; remove and throw away infected plants and tubers, otherwise the bacteria will spread to your other plants. Disinfect any garden tools that come in contact with infected plant parts, using 14 2

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a solution that’s 10 percent bleach and 90 percent water, to prevent spreading the disease. Numerous viral diseases impact dahlias, and the tell-tale signs that a plant has a virus are yellow streaking or spots on the leaves and veins, and stunted plant growth. Viruses live in both the plant and the tuber, and there is no known treatment or cure for them, so regular monitoring and removal of infected plants is the best course of action. As soon as a virus is identified, pull it out and destroy all part of the plant immediately. Do not compost any parts, to prevent spreading the virus further. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, botrytis, leaf spot and smut are spread by airborne spores. The best way to prevent them is by giving plants good airflow and proper care and watering as previously outlined and by keeping the garden clean of any diseased debris.

Insects & safety

The kind of insects and pests that might harm your dahlias will vary based on a range of environmental factors, the time of year and where you live. In every case, the healthier you keep your plants, the less susceptible they’ll be to insect damage, so we do a lot of work to keep our plants at their strongest. Keep in mind whatever treatments you use in your soil and apply to your plants will very likely come in contact with you, your children and your pets at some point, so I advise using organic methods as much as possible. Growing naturally takes more effort and attention, but pays off in the quality of the flowers and in you and your family’s health. While growing the perfect blooms is always exciting, if it requires exposing yourself and your loved ones to toxic chemicals, I would personally rather have a few more bugs eating flowers and know my place is a safe place to be.

G High stakes

Plants grown in the right conditions and with the care previously described will inevitably grow tall and heavy. Lush, healthy dahlias require sturdy staking to stay upright, and it’s important to have it in place before plants grow too large and topple over from the weight of their showy blossoms. If you’re growing dahlias in your garden, you can pound individual stakes into the ground next to the tuber so you don’t disturb roots later on. As plants grow, use twine or sisal string to tie them to the stakes, at every 30cm to 46cm of height, to support the growth. If planting dahlias in long rows, corralling them is by far the most efficient and easy-to-install support method. When plants are 46cm to 61cm tall, we pound a 1.2m to 1.5m metal T-post every 3m along the outside edge of the beds, then run a layer of baling twine around the entire perimeter, looping it around each T-post and pulling it tight as we go in order to create an enclosed box around the growing bed. If the string is not pulled tight, it will sag and droop, so be sure to hold tension on the twine as you go so that it remains taut. Tie the first layer of twine about 60cm off the ground, and the second layer about 45cm above that. This double layer of twine will give plants all the support that they need to stay upright during the growing season, and you can add additional layers of twine as needed.

DISCOVERING DAHLIAS

Reprinted from Floret Farm’s Discovering Dahlias by Erin Benzakein with permission by Chronicle Books, 2021. Distributed by Bookreps NZ Ltd. Photography © Chris Benzakein. RRP $49.99.

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