Design Trends 2023

New builddesign trends

Welcome to

design trends:

Our homes are an extension of who we are. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating your current one or dreaming of the near future, it’s important to choose an aesthetic that suits your lifestyle.

When you build with Signature Homes you get access to our in-house interior designers who will help you choose anything from your paint colours, right through to how to style your home.

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Exterior designdirection

SPECIAL

trend:

Cladding

Board and batten

If you’re looking to add some warmth or unique contrast, then consider using panel cladding with some texture. The rustic appeal of the ‘board and batten’ look also works well with the high pitched roofs seen in the modern farmhouse style. Board and batten gives you the freedom to create something completely different such as random spacing, or maintain that uniform look with structured spacing.

Achieve this look with

EasyLap™ Panel

by James Hardie

Mixing Materials

Breaking free from traditional methods of building, the mixed material look is an exterior and interior representation of modern functionality, a current trend that isn’t showing signs of slowing down.

The combination of mixing brick with other contrasting building materials such as wooden accents gives the façade a sense of character, innovation and a flow of rhythm throughout the home.

Vertical Cladding

From villas to baches, New Zealander’s love affair with weatherboard can be seen in many of our historic building designs. An obvious choice for restoring older buildings, the clean horizontal lines of Linea Weatherboard also work beautifully with the expansive surfaces and spaces of contemporary architecture. Some of our favourite Weatherboard products includes James Hardie’s Linea and Linea Oblique Weatherboard.

Linea™ Oblique™ Weatherboard by James Hardie

Linea™ Weatherboard by James Hardie

Whitehaven

Reclaimed Original Espresso

SPECIAL EDITION

trend:

Exterior Colours

Go contemporary with black

For those building new or undertaking a full update of their home exterior, blacks and near blacks such as Resene All Black, Resene Foundry and Resene Element will give you a contemporary look on your walls or fence.

All Black™ by Resene

Warm up your white

After two decades of cool, flat greys and whites reigning as the preferred neutrals, there has been a shift towards warmer and more complex options. Character neutrals, which feature more depth in their subtle undertones, are all the rage. Try an old faithful Resene Tea or go for something deeper such as Resene Anglaise or Resene Calico.

Blue Days

Those looking for more colour but not full-on blacks are choosing weathered blue greys and grey blues, such as Resene Dusted Blue and Resene Neutral Bay. These continue to be top choices, as are greyed greens with warmer undertones, such as Resene Siam and Resene Flax, which better coordinate with natural surroundings.

Resene Karen Walker

Half Milk White by Resene

Outdoor Design trend:

Sanctuary gardens

It’s not surprising that gardens encouraging people to pause, reflect and just ‘be’ are on the list of popular landscape trends for the coming year. In our own outdoor spaces, we can create the mood by curating small, enclosed areas that allow us to take a moment and reconnect with nature. Try introducing water features, using a soothing colour palette and planting for texture and form, rather than colour.

Tropical holiday vibes

An abundance of bold foliage and an exuberant mix of textures, leaf sizes and shapes are the hallmarks of a tropical-themed garden. At ground level, underplanting gets sun protection from canopy trees and swaying palms.

Create the look by layering plants underneath existing trees or the shade cast by pergolas and umbrellas. Water features add to the calming tropical oasis effect, as do plants that attract birds, bees and butterflies.

Use extra-large containers filled with riotous colour and flamboyant leaves to create the key element of abundance.

Our favourites

TERRISTA Planter

by Freedom AVERI Planter Wooden Stand by Freedom

by MOOD

Terracotta is the latest backyard trend

Terracotta gardening is trending because it is an easy way to add texture and colour to your garden, not to mention the affordable and recyclable nature of it.

This rich, yet neutral shade lends itself to all kinds of gardens, think Moroccan or Mediterranean-inspired schemes for warm zones to the traditional appeal of an Englishstyle country garden for cooler regions.

White Out Pot Extra Large 500x500

key tip : use lighting to divide your indoor and outdoor areas.

Interior designdirection

trend:

Kitchen Design

Calming interiors

We’re seeing a balanced mix of colours, materials and textures that reflect nature and provide a calming aesthetic.

Ocean blues are being used as a strong feature kitchen colour. We’ll be seeing the comeback of Royal Blue (which never really went away) and lighter Baby Blues. Mint and Sage Greens are a popular choice for a calming colour palette.

We’re starting to see a move away from whites towards the more earthy colours of sand and the desert.

Dusky pink is an elegant more playful alternative to grey, it’s soft, charming, and moody. You can use this colour across a full kitchen design or pair it back with complementary tones like opting for a pink island.

Mixing materials and textures

We’re seeing an increased use of two-tone kitchens. The combination of timber doors and marble benchtops and splashbacks look fabulous but if you’re afraid to fully commit to timber, it can be used sparingly to accent just the bar back panel or open shelves for example.

Fluting is a classic look in interior design that is enjoying a renaissance in modern home decor. It's a fantastic way to add texture to a room as well as giving a little nod to Art Deco glamour.

Social kitchen islands

Kitchen islands are always on trend. But for 2023 kitchen islands are evolving as they become more socially focused. They will be tailored to incorporate more seating, storage and ensure the space is completely inclusive, whether cooking, entertaining or just relaxing with the family.

Bold patterns

Slab splashbacks: Rather than a contrasting splashback we are seeing slabs of the same (or similar) material to the benchtop used as one consistent piece as the splashback.

Warm marble: Marble splashbacks display beautifully, attract the eye and the bolder the better.

Our favourites trend:

Bathroom Design

Liven things up with a statement piece Coloured and textured basins create the ultimate focal point for any bathroom. Coloured countertop basins are continuing to evolve. Soft matte tones are a popular choice for basins at the moment, combined with a rough finish accentuating the natural form of concrete; while elegant ribbed pieces in high gloss provide a stunning opulent feature.

Create

With its decorative speckled design and soft textural pattern, Terrazzo-look porcelain tiles are endlessly stylish and versatile, and an interior favourite as a more affordable alternative to marble or granite.

Nature-inspired interiors

Another emerging trend is nature-inspired interiors, particularly in mural-style tile. Contact with nature and natural surroundings blur the borders between exterior and interior. Think lush greens, deep moss tones, and the rich, rustic reds of autumnal leaves.

Our favourites

Paini Cox Basin Mixerin Brushed Brass by Plumbing World

Levivi Elba Basin Mixer Black by Plumbing World

a seamless flow with Terrazo

Terra Arte by Tile Warehouse

Hilton Terrazzo Matt by Tile Warehouse

Venice Villa Graphite Matt by Tile Warehouse

trend:

Flooring Design

Area Rugs

Today’s homes are often large, open-plan spaces that link together kitchens, dining rooms and living rooms. Area rugs are a great solution that can help to define a space, while adding a sense of comfort and warmth.

When choosing a rug consider the floor space you have in a room, what furniture you intend on arranging on and around it, and the connection and balance between the two.

Wood & Laminate Flooring

Dark wood flooring adds a rich, luxurious feel to any interior setting by adding a sense of intensified warm ambience to a space. When paired with light coloured walls and accents, dark wood flooring can create a striking contrast in your home.

Light wood flooring, specifically beige and grey blends, are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners with the ability to brighten up interior spaces such as: home offices, kitchens, and bedrooms. Light wood flooring can make small spaces look larger, offering a sleek, neutral appearance.

Our favourites

Carpet Tones

When it comes to carpet, a neutral colour palette can help to give your home a refreshed and timeless feel. It can also lend itself to any style, creating the perfect canvas to design with- whether its soft and minimal, industrial or contemporary.

Reside Abode Casa in Lahar Colour by Flooring Xtra

Timber flooring collections by Flooring Xtra

Laminate flooring collections by Flooring Xtra

trend:

Lighting Design

White is the new black

White is having a moment, and we couldn’t be more excited! It speaks to the idea that lighting needs to be a calm element, blend in seamlessly, and provide a beautiful, muted accent or ambient glow at night.

Our favourites

It is often combined with brass or wood or even white as a relief from a few years ago when black fittings and cord were popular. Matte opal white glass is also being massively appreciated, just as it was at the turn of the last century and into the 20s and 30s.

by Mr Ralph

by Mr Ralph

Oslo Metal Pendant

Vienna Opal Glass Pendant

The rise of the statement pendant

A statement pendant will delineate an area, provide a focal point and exude warmth. Entranceways and large living spaces need a grounding influence, and if you have the space why not flaunt it! The trend of the three smaller pendants over the kitchen island is giving way to bigger, more oversized pendants. A creative way to create this effect with smaller pendants is to cluster.

Going straight with lineal

In homes with the dining table and kitchen island in close proximity we recommend selecting one area only for pendant lighting. And that is where the Lineal LED suspension comes in, grounding a space with its sleek and simple design. Crafted in Wellington and coated to any Dulux colour, they can also be a statement themselves.

Rattan but not as you know it

Generally, you are either a Rattan kind of a person or not; it has always divided us. It is either famously bohemian or coastal, but the new trend is much more formed, less lacy or patterned. Mr Ralph has launched a new Rattan range, and the feeling is more New Chalet-French feel or structured yet soft Mid-century.

This new movement means they work everywhere, giving spaces a softness and natural element, we all crave. Texture and warmth are huge right now, and these natural materials bring a casual yet contemporary vibe to your space.

by Mr Ralph

Bamboo - Fleur Shade

40cm Bubble

Ball Pendant by Mr Ralph

Interiorstyling

A Fresh Start

A connection is formed through nourishing surrounds, welcoming rest and renewal. Clean profiles and curved forms imbue a sense of calm alongside natural oaks and fresh contemporary tones.

A soft palette of pistachio, butter, seafoam and putty invigorates interiors.

Quarter Robin Egg Blue by Resene

Parky - Ivory Oak Plank by Flooring Xtra

Ecru White by Resene

by Soren Liv

Common Ground

Senses are soothed with the organic beauty of grounded forms and sculptural silhouettes.

Viola marble and mocha wood finishes add intrigue to bold forms, while oversized seating welcomes lasting comfort. Moody tones are softened in dark shades of moss, dark oak, mule and chocolate.

Rangitoto by Resene

Pergo Gotland

Parchment Oak by Flooring Xtra

Beryl Green by Resene

by Soren Liv

Parisian Salon

Baring the hallmarks of tradition, decadent details merge with contemporary silhouettes. Celebrating the luxurious in everyday living, boucle and velvet are accompanied by channelling and antique brass detail. Warm tones of cognac and Dijon alongside pearl and mocha conjure the glamour of Parisian life.

Quick-Step Intenso

Raisin Black Oak Matt by Flooring Xtra

click on the image to view home

Albescent White by Resene

Sorrell Brown by Resene

by Soren Liv

Achieve the Look

The Karere

The everyday holiday home

Christchurch locals Mike & Marianne wanted a home that felt like they were on holiday everyday. The Karere design fit the brief perfectly, a standout family home with all of life’s luxuries.

The striking exterior was achieved using Abodo's premium weatherboard timber product and Rockcote Integra cladding system. Large windows with multiple skylights create a gorgeous light-filled home.

Interior features include a bold stairwell with a feature wall, a designer kitchen with impressive scullery, a master bedroom covering the entire upstairs area. Inside the home, you'll find four bedrooms, two well-appointed bathrooms, a designer kitchen with large scullery, two living spaces and a gym.

Shop the look

1. Lighting Plus: Chelsea Brushed Brass 6 Light Pendant

2. Citta: S2 Stool

3. Early Settler: Zarli Dining Chair Black

4. Early Settler: Boden 3 Seater Sofa Fern Green C-014

5. Citta: Linen Cotton Cushion Cover

6. Citta: Segment Coffee Table

7. The Design Depot: Oak Bok Dining Table Black 2.0

8. Nood: Indus Planter Set 2pc black/gold

9. Mr Ralph: Apothecary 40cm Round Glass Pendant

The Tavai

Botanical and beautifully rustic A house to grow into and for all to enjoy sums up Shell and Lee's brief.

The easy flow, open-plan living and access to the outdoors at both ends of the home of the Tavai plan ticked a lot of our boxes. They worked with their Signature Homes design team to tweak the plan adding in a separate laundry and extending the open-plan living space. The addition of extended sliding doors and full-length windows captures the indooroutdoor flow even more so.

The brick exterior is inspired by growing up in England. The white brick with black joinery in ‘Flax’ adds a modern feeling to the home. Lush green plants help to soften the white brick creating a gorgeous botanical feel.

Shop the look

1. Cintesi: Harriet Barstool - Natural with Cane Seat

2. The Foxes Den: Rattan Headboard

3. Mr Ralph: Opal Globe Wall Sconce

4. Freedom: Essence Mirror

5. Danske Mobler: Cross 2200 Dining Table

6. Danske Mobler: Cross Bench Seat

7. Mr Ralph: Extra large 37cm Glass Cloche Pendant

The Attewell

East coast inspired dream

Peter and his companion Aero, the dog, enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle in Whakatane. Their new home is the epitome of modern lifestyle living. The top three 'must-haves' were to create a low-maintenance, energy-efficient, modern home.

The pavilion-style home means all bedrooms are tucked away from the living areas, and the master suite comes complete with access to the decking area.

Well-considered ‘value adds’ include a cloak cupboard for guests, a spacious study to work from home, and an under-bench wine fridge in the stunning scullery.

Peter's brief of an East Coast inspired home comes to life with tan and cream accents and coastal furnishings. The home truly complements its semi-rural surroundings.

Shop the look

1. Mr Ralph: Bubble Saucer Pendant

2. Citta: Chester Linen Cushion Cover

3. Stacks Furniture: Laurel Armchair - Charcoal

4. A&C Home Store: Hug Lounger - Grey

5. Citta: Thea Print Cushion Cover

6. Citta: Zaha Patchwork Cushion Cover

7. Alfresco Pendant Light

8. Oriel Lighting: Tig Single Pendant Light

9. Resene: Half Sea Fog

The Maxwell

At one with nature

Clarissa and Darren wanted a home that could evolve with their family and lifestyle. A highly liveable home sums up the Maxwell plan, which can be easily extended as their family grows.

The Pavilion style home features open plan living, high-pitched ceilings and multiple access points to the outdoors, a must-have for a lifestyle home.

Dark brick is the material of choice for most of the exterior, with vertical shiplap cedar to the gabled ends of the house, entrance and covered areas to provide contrast. Inside, you’ll find a combination of cool whites and dark colours that complement the natural surroundings.

Shop the look

1. Plumbing World: Levivi Milan Gooseneck Sink Mixer Black

2. Freedom: Brandon Dining Chair

3. Bosca 380 Wood Fire Place

4. Plumbing World: Caroma Urbane Ii 1400mm Back-To-Wall Bath

5. Citta: Linen Cotton Cushion Cover

6. Citta: Cotton Velvet Cushion Cover

7. Freedom: Cannes Sofa

8. Freedom: Cannes Coffee Table

9. Resene Seafog

The Whitworth

A home away from home

If you're looking to maximise your site with a touch of luxury, then the two-storey Whitworth plan is for you. This property is all about capturing the water views from both levels.

A functional, open-plan layout creates easy flow throughout the home. All four bedrooms are generous in size with ample bathrooms strategically positioned.

The solid wood staircase in American Ash enhances the opulence theme, and the statement lighting from David Trubridge hanging in stairway creates striking reflections into the evening.

The abundance of windows and stacker doors ensures light flows through every room of the home all day long.

Shop the look

1. David Trubridge: Navicula

2. Target: Harper Chair, Light Grey

3. Nood: Replica Noguchi Coffee Table - Ash

4. Ido Interior Design: Trang Coffee Table Nest – Black

5. Citta: Objet Cushion Cover

6. Freedom: Aspect Fabric Modular Sofa

7. Citta: Linen Cotton Cushion Cover

8. David Trubridge: Flax

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New Home Consullation _

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We’ll help you iron the unknowns such as; what could I build on my section? What do I need to consider? What will the rough costs be?

You’ll walk away from your Signature Homes New Home Consultation with a clear path ahead to building your dream home! So bring your ideas, and book your consultation today.

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Why Build with Signature Homes

Design & Build

You may have an idea of your perfect home in your head or sketched somewhere, have plans already drawn up by an architect, or be looking for something completely unique.

We can help you Design & Build your dream home from scratch or follow your existing plans. This is a great option if you’re after something a little different or have a tricky site.

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Decades of experience have shown us that there are elements of great home designs that are universal amongst our clients. With this in mind, we have created collections of plans that include almost any layout you can think of, and they are a great place to start.

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If you don’t have a section to build on, then a House & Land package might be the answer. Our packages often feature newly-released land from developers that isn’t available to the public, and we match each section with one or more plans that maximise the specific site and environment.

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This is a great option if you have a larger site, potentially offering you very good financial rewards. We offer a streamlined Subdividing Service, bringing together a number of specialists to save you time and money.

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Two Year Maintenance Guarantee

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Ten Year Weathertightness Guarantee

We have great faith in our builders and the products we use, so much so that we guarantee all our homes will be warm, dry and healthy to live in for years to come.

We've got you covered, right from day one

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