MySpace October 2016

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OCTOBER 2016 Design Tips

Landscapes

Renovations

Interiors

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Create Something Extraordinary RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL | RENOVATION

Your space, our creativity Insight Architecture Ltd is an award winning architectural practice with an exceptional portfolio of work. Our completed projects include residential homes, retirement resorts, apartments, schools, commercial ofďŹ ces and industrial developments. Insight's numerous award winning designs produce sustainable, functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces and buildings with enduring quality. We are a partner you can turn to throughout your project. We support you through the design process and beyond.

Talk to us about your project P.07 579 5295 or 0800 443 327 E.info@insightnz.co.nz Old Tauranga Post OfďŹ ce, 51 Willow St PO Box 13572, Tauranga 3141

insightnz.co.nz

0800 4 IDEAS

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Welcome to MySpace, a new free magazine launched to capture, captivate and motivate the energetic and increasingly growing local design, build and renovation market. When searching for ideas for your dream home or how to improve existing property with the latest styles and trends, look no further than MySpace!

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Major views suit mini enthusiasts

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Setting the tone

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Beach bach beauty

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From groove to grain

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Falling in love with an old farmhouse

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A ‘bit’ of DIY

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Coastal renovation triumph

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Choosing a landscape designer

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Professional Services

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For all advertising enquiries contact: Kathy Sellars on 07 928 3053 or 027 211 9193 kathy@sunmedia.co.nz

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www.myspacemagazine.co.nz Editorial: Karolyn Timarkos, Elaine Fisher, Hamish Carter Photography: Bruce Barnard, Chris Callinan, supplied Advertising: Kathy Sellars, Leah Rogers, Aimee-Leigh Brunsden, Lucy Pattison Graphic Design: Kym Johnson, SunCreative Ltd MySpace is a SunMedia Ltd publication © All material is copyright and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

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The house at 495 Gloucester Rd, Papamoa, was designed to match the furniture. While it’s not the usual way most people plan a house, Build Style Developments owner Jason Ponder and Reuben Anderson along with Contemporary Classics managing director Grant Furniss agree it’s the best way to do it.

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“Having furniture in mind when you design is the easiest way to build your home,” says Grant. “It’s the essence of simplicity. When people build backgrounds and then try to find something to match, it’s a real cart-before-horse way of attacking design.” He points out there are many options of paint types and colours, finishes, tiles, drapes and the like – but a limited range of furniture choices. He says it’s a problem when people add the furniture to the house, rather than adding the house to the furniture. “Without a total vision, design is difficult. When you walk into a room, what will be the first thing to hit you? The wall colour? A piece of art? The feature rug? Those are the pieces that inspire, but too often people build a whole room with no idea of what’s going in it. That is not good design.” It’s obvious that this house doesn’t suffer from that. The home and furniture blend together beautifully. The furniture selection was an important element of the full interior design of the home, which was created by Lucy Furniss of Lucy Design. Grant’s daughter Lucy has

created a clean design with simple features, and an emphasis on comfort and easy living. For example, the covers of the linen sofas are fully removable and washable. “And comfy,” says Grant. “The sumptuous feather and foam filled cushions invite you to curl up and snuggle under the faux fur throw.” Supplying to Build Style Developments was a great opportunity to have Contemporary Classics’ select indoor furniture seen in a deserving environment. “The functional, 100 per cent solid European oak cabinets and accessory furniture matches the enduring look of the home,” says Grant. “The light-coloured furniture creates a practical, uplifting feel of space, while mixing textures with neutral palettes creates impact and a tactile environment.” The attention to detail in this house is impressive – every nail is impeccably aligned, every finish is perfect. “It takes a while,” says Jason from Build Style Developments. “We quality control everything. If there’s a mark on a wall, we don’t leave it and see if the customer notices. We walk around before hand-over, and if the whole house needs to be > myspace October 2016

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repainted because we are not happy with it, then we’ll do it.”

with a bit of a wow factor.

That happened when Jason and Reuben tried a new painter. “We weren’t happy with the job, so we repainted the entire house.”

Another modern twist is all black tapware throughout the house. While conventional chrome finish taps frequently show water marks and finger marks, and require constant cleaning, matte black taps are more mark resistant.

That was at Build Styles expense. “We are not going to deliver anything we not happy with,” says Jason. After that hard lesson, Build Style Developments now only uses tradespeople they know and trust. “We might have to wait a bit, but we need to know the work is going to be good.” Jason and Reuben think beyond the current owners. They won’t build anything they suspect could have future issues, and they are careful in selection of building materials. It is all about keeping the options open while working out what is the best solution for the individual client and the space they want to create, offering a complete design and build service. In this case, the choice was Metrapanel – a robust, durable and energy efficient product providing home owners with smooth, strong walls, resulting in extensive cost maintenance savings over time. Many of the walls are finished with cedar panelling, while clay brick feature walls create a modern contemporary look

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Designing a house together, like Build Style Developments and Contemporary Classics did, pays dividends. “Contemporary Classics entered the Interior Design Awards a few times,” says Grant. “And each time we won. We gave up on that because we thought, well, that was too easy. All we did was start with the piece of furniture, and then asked, ‘What’s going to make that furniture look fantastic’?” It’s obvious both Jason, Reuben and Grant live by the motto, ‘Do it once, and do it right’. They’ll each spend half an hour making sure something no one will ever see is perfect. “Because we’ll always know it’s there.” The house will be a showhome in the literal sense of the word – Jason will be living in it with his family, and showing by appointment. “It won’t feel staged or have that pretence of someone living in it. It will look and feel like a real home.”

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Heat Pump Air Conditioners

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Energy EfďŹ cient

• Anti-allergenic, bacteria resistant and moisture absorbing (always a pleasant, fresh, cool feeling when touched or slept on). • Light massaging effect because of the microscopic breaks throughout the fabric. • It is a breathable fabric – makes you warm in the winter and keeps cool in the summer. • Distinct, distinguished texture and delightful softness (becoming even softer and shinier with each washing). • Anti-static and can even help soften and preserve the skin due to its natural pH balance. Repels dirt. • Twice as durable and can last the decades (an investment). • It is environmentally friendly, is a renewable resource and it needs no irrigation. It is also fully biodegradable. The bedroom is where we spend a third of our lives, why not enjoy it? By Yvonne Perry, Neptunes Linen Chest & Gifts Ltd myspace October 2016

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Your local agents of David Trubridge lighting

104 Maunganui Rd Mt Maunganui 07 574 7428 zohar.co.nz

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Designer choices

Prepare a brief A brief will help you to narrow down what it is that you want from your build. Before you decide on the “whoâ€? you need to work out what it is you want in a design team and what is most important to you. • A good place to start is to ask: What is your maximum budget? • Where are you willing to compromise and where do you need perfection? • How many bedrooms, bathrooms and living spaces do you need? • What size home do you need – cool and compact or large and grand? • Are green building principles important to you? • Do you spend most of your time in your lounge, kitchen or bedroom? • What is in your near future – retirement, a big family or three cocker spaniels? • Do you need room in your garage for a work space or are you a one car family? • Do you need a large wardrobe, an ensuite, a scullery, a study, a media room, games room, wine cellar, covered outdoor entertaining – a ballroom?! • Do you want a local design team? • Do you want a design and build team or do you already have a preferred building contractor? 14

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Browse for a designer Every designer has a certain style. %\ XVLQJ RXU GHVLJQHU ÀOHV \RX FDQ HDVLO\ check out the work of local designers who ZLOO EH DEOH WR IXOÀOO \RXU GHVLJQ EULHI For a start you will want to read their design philosophy, view their gallery of work, check out their website and look at the skill-set of their team. Select a few designers who impress you and then make contact. If you don’t see anyone you like locally, then search for Designers in surrounding regions. Designers often work outside of their local area or may be able to recommend a local designer who has a similar aesthetic.

Meet the designer It’s okay if you have several designers you want to make contact with ² LQ WKH ORQJ UXQ Ă€QGLQJ WKH ULJKW GHVLJQHU for your project will pay off. When you meet with a designer, you need to ask questions that are going to help reassure you that you have met your match. Begin with the basics: ‡ :KDW DUH WKHLU TXDOLĂ€FDWLRQV" $UH WKH\ D member of ADNZ? • What is their experience? Then move on to questions that will help discover if they will deliver on your expectations. Ask: • What do you think is good design?

• What is your design philosophy? • Can you deliver on our proposed budget? • What do you like about our build site and where do you see setbacks? • Will there be a Project Manager or do you do the work yourself ? • What are your payment options? • Do you have any testimonials or past clients I can call? • What is your favorite project you have worked on? • Do you do all the design work yourself ? • Do you have preferred builders? • What is your area of specialtyalterations, hill design, green/passive design, compact homes etc.

Clarify speciďŹ cs details Like any agreement you need a contract to protect yourself and your designer. Ask for a copy of your designer’s terms and conditions and make sure they provide you with a legal written contract WKDW FODULĂ€HV SULFH WLPH OLQHV DQG ZKDW happens with certain eventualities. If you do not understand anything in WKH FRQWUDFW RU ZDQW FODULĂ€FDWLRQ ² DVN your lawyer. Make sure your Designers is using the ADNZ or NZIA terms of engagement. Read it thoroughly! from ADNZ www.adnz.org.nz

Experience a new level of support, comfort and temperature management with Beautyrest Royale A two-storied coil on coil pocket spring design which conforms to your shape while providing optimal support. Combined with Micro-Diamond Infused Aircool Memory Foam, dual layers of FusionGel® and a soft knit cashmere Aircool Quilt. “I’m proud to have Beautyrest Royale on display. You will be impressed.” %JTKUUKG 6TWG Exclusive to Bedpost in the />ÕÀ> }>] >Þ v * i ÌÞ

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Design within the Depot The Design Depot has already made its mark in the Bay of Plenty after opening its doors just over a year ago. It is renowned for its beautiful furniture, homewares, lighting, soft furnishings, bed linen and giftware. This edgy design store is the RQH VWRS VKRS IRU ÀQGLQJ WKH SHUIHFW LWHPV IRU your home, whatever your style or occasion. Kylie Marsh says The Design Depot has a fantastic team of interior designers, curtain consultants and friendly retail staff. “We offer a complete design service to the Bay of Plenty region, delivering expert assistance on everything from new home decorating to sourcing a one off piece.” Unique pieces are sourced both locally and internationally. “Not only will our experienced interior designers come to your home, but we can deliver products to you on appro – so you FDQ UHDOO\ IHHO KRZ RXU IXUQLWXUH ÀWV \RXU OLIH µ The Design Depot’s lead interior designer

Deborah Moore has a wealth of knowledge with 15 years’ experience in the industry. She has an incredible eye for detail and a talent for translating her clients’ ideas into stylish interiors. “I am passionate about what I do. I believe I have a very privileged role being invited into a client’s home to create a bespoke environment, this gives me great satisfaction.” Deborah is known for transforming projects to the very highest of standards across a range of budgets. “I enjoy seeing a project from conception to completion and watching our clients grow and embrace the vision.” Kylie, Deborah and the team at The Design Depot have won many local and national awards for outstanding retail excellence. These include being the National Winners of the NZ Global Innovation award, going on to represent New Zealand in Chicago in 2015. “We’re the destination for those requiring a UHJXODU LQVSLUDWLRQDO À[ DQG ORRNLQJ IRU LWHPV not seen elsewhere,” says Deborah. myspace October 2016

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PIC TO COME CENTRE

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Greg Bold Family is what it’s all about for Greg Bold, so, while he’s quite partial to his guitar room, the kitchen and dining area is the focal point of the house. “Every second Sunday the whole family comes together for family night. That dinner around the table, that level of communication between the [adult] children and myself, and those good old-fashioned belly laughs is something that’s incredibly important to us.”

Family night starts with Greg, Ruth, kids Chris and Matthew, and stepson Conan.

This probably comes as no surprise to thousands of Tauranga students, who have, since 2009, attended Greg’s lectures at the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic on a range of potentially tedious subjects. With his entertaining manner, Greg’s lectures are known to be fun and enjoyable, rather than dry and dusty.

Cellphones are turned off. “Unless I get asked a stupid question like: ‘Why do chickens heads stay still when they move their body?’”

Greg and wife Ruth bought the house in December, and it had a “nice big open” kitchen and dining area, with a breakfast bar. Ruth won’t let anyone else help her prepare dinner, so the family has a tendency to sit around the breakfast bar while she’s cooking.

“With various partners we end up with eight or nine around the table. It’s a neat way to catch up, and see where everybody’s at and what’s going on. It’s pretty cool.”

Then it’s cellphones out, mad Googling, VHHLQJ ZKR FDQ ÀQG WKH DQVZHU ÀUVW DQG WKHQ watching videos of chickens’ heads remaining completely stationery. “Seriously, some of the conversations have been around that kind of stuff.” Greg has a big project planned for next summer – pushing the dining room area out to create more area, and a bigger deck. “It’s all about that family space.”

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a drier, healthier home

SHOWERDOME

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Setting the tone “It was absolutely horrible,” says Rose Theobald, about the ice green and burgundy tones that covered the wall from the kitchen through living-dining-lounge in the 400 sqm home. Shades from marine blue, aquamarine, teal, and any other combination of blue-green, yellow and burgundy were everywhere in the early 1990s, including Omokoroa. The 25-year-old Margaret Drive property Rose bought with husband Dave 18 months ago was tarred by the same brush. After renovating 17 previous homes, Rose and her husband Dave were happy with their ‘lovely home’ in Waterview Terrace, on the other side of Omokoroa peninsula. “Then we came across this place,” says Rose. “The temptation was strong.” Her interest was tweaked after discovering the house for sale as developers carved up its surrounding orchard into house blocks. “I said to Dave that it would be a good

doer-upper. It was a shambles but had style.” Interest turned into action three weeks later when their Waterview home sold, and they threw themselves into the project. Choosing a neutral colour to repaint the area was top of her list when they took ownership. 7KH PXVWDUG KRQH\ VKH VHWWOHG RQ ÀWWHG her belief that colours should suit the home era, joinery and exterior tones, rather than being tempted by current trends. Next priority was clearing the bush that blocked the view down to the harbour. Sitting atop the ridge, it now boasts an impressive sweeping view from Plummers Point to Te Puna, on to Fergusson Park, and the port cranes and lights in the distance. > myspace October 2016

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With the entertaining season approaching, Dave is building a deck along the eastern side of the home on weekends. The deck will lead onto a spa cabana room looking straight out to the water. Wrapped in glass for shelter, and to allow view from the spa, will be an entertaining zone with step-down barbecue area. “There’s always something to do,” says Rose, who hesitates to give a target completion date, particularly after the house project was put on hold for about a year as the pair renovated their latest 8m motorhome. Along with the current outdoor work, the key structural renovations have been opening up the “tiny kitchen” by pushing walls back, installing a larger kitchen, and converting a second entrance into a scullery, complete with serve-through window to the formal dining area and second lounge. Structurally the family room has been left unchanged, aside from decorative elements like the stone surround ZKLFK UHIUHVKHG WKH ÀUHSODFH +RZHYHU WKH FRYHUHG RXWGRRU VXQURRP ² ZKLFK ÁRZV RII WKH IDPLO\ URRP KDV EHHQ enclosed with walls to create a snug living area with pool and harbour views. Rose says a lot of money had gone into unseen work –

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Before

including revitalising the tropical swimming pool the grandchildren live in over summer. “You always need to be prepared to be hit with extra costs in areas you can’t see, or don’t think of.â€? After the outdoor work and landscaping is complete, they will turn to reviving the downstairs bathrooms and laundry with paint and tiles, then the master bathroom, before converting a large attic space into grandchildren’s zone. ´7KH KDUGHVW SDUW LV Ă€QGLQJ D WLOHU WKDW¡V IUHH Âľ VKH KDOI jokes, saying Dave and her son, Sam of Prestige Tilers, are always too busy with work commitments. Despite years of renovation experience, including as an Auckland interior designer, Rose’s big focus remains the VDPH DV ZKHQ VKH EHJDQ ,W¡V DERXW LPSURYLQJ Ă RZ DQG XVH RI VSDFH ² VRPHWKLQJ VKH Ă€QGV KHUVHOI GRLQJ DV VKH VL]HV XS rooms wherever she goes. “I can’t help myself. I’m often saying it would be much better if they shifted this or that.â€? Asked if Dave loves renovating as much as her, Rose ODXJKV ´, NQRZ KH GHĂ€QLWHO\ ORYHV VDYLQJ RQ SD\LQJ RWKHUV WR do the work.â€?

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Right size is the key to HVAC

Bigger is often thought of as better, but this is often not the case with a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system. You want the best-sized system for your house or room. If the system is too big for the home, the unit heats up the room too quickly, says HVAC-I consultant Lauren Wills. ´,W WKHQ WXUQV RII DQG RQ LQ D UDSLG F\FOH ,W¡V QRW DQ HIĂ€FLHQW method of heating.â€? HVAC-I owner Jarrad Seath says size is the main query customers have when considering installing a heat pump. He advises getting a number of quotes. “That way you can compare prices, brands, and advice from technicians, and know you’re JHWWLQJ WKH EHVW Ă€W IRU \RXU KRPH Âľ He offers a few more tips for homeowners about choosing systems.

• Wall-mounted units sit high on the wall and come in a range of styles and series. Some options are slimmer or more compact in VL]H WKDQ RWKHU V\VWHPV DQG FDQ EH PRUH HQHUJ\ HIĂ€FLHQW ‡ ,I \RX¡UH ORRNLQJ IRU D PRUH HQHUJ\ HIĂ€FLHQW RSWLRQ WR UHSODFH DQ HOHFWULF ZDOO KHDWHU FRQVLGHU D Ă RRU FRQVROH ‡ &HLOLQJ FDVVHWWHV VLW Ă XVK ZLWK WKH FHLOLQJ EORZ DLU LQ IRXU directions, and can be placed in the centre of the room or adjacent to a wall. • Multi systems can consist of a number of different units, all running off the one outdoor unit. • Ducted systems are individually tailored with a unit sitting in the URRI VSDFH 7KLV SURYLGHV DLUĂ RZ WR GXFWV ORFDWHG WKURXJKRXW the house, and can be set up with zone control, allowing you to switch zones on and off independently. Jarrad says additional options for each system include the ability to read and control the system and adjust settings using a wall controller with a backlit display, and the option of Wi-Fi control using a smartphone or other device. myspace October 2016

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Gold miners’ cottages are part of Waihi Beach’s heritage so it is ďŹ tting that Mike and Kathy Bell of Belco Homes chose to honour the past in their beach retreat. $W Ă€UVW WKH LQWHQWLRQ ZDV WR UHQRYDWH WKH V cottage on a tiny section close to the beach. But on closer inspection Mike realised time had taken its toll and the best option was to re-create the quaint cottage. So successfully has this been done that from the outside it’s hard to tell this is a new build, which is among the reasons judges in the 2016 House of the Year were so impressed with it – and presented Belco Homes with a Gold Award, Category Win, and to top it off a Gold Reserve Award. Traditional weatherboards clad the exterior and the double-glazed aluminium windows are set into timber IUDPHV ,QVLGH PDWDL Ă RRULQJ VDOYDJHG IURP WKH RULJLQDO cottage is a feature of the living area at the front of the house. What was the kitchen has become a modern bathroom ZLWK VHSDUDWH WRLOHW $ Ă RRU WR FHLOLQJ VWRUDJH XQLW RI drawers, shelves and cupboards maximises hall space 26

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between utility area and the two bedrooms.

skylights and two extensively glazed walls.

Solar panels provide hot water and the home is wired for sound throughout, adding to the holiday atmosphere.

And there in the very same light and airy room, meals can be enjoyed, or taken out onto the deck and lawn. This is truly a heart of the home kitchen in the best traditions of Kiwi beach bach living.

,Q WKLV SDUW RI WKH KRPH WKH ÀQLVK LV true to the 1920s era but the kitchen-living area, which leads from it, combines both traditional and new. Kitchens are often the preserve of the ‘resident chef ’ but this one has been designed so anyone and everyone can be part of meal preparation – at any time of the day or night. The long galley style design provides ample space for several people to work together. There’s a conventional electric stove and an impressive solid fuel oven too, so feeding a small summer army or keeping winter time visitors warm is no problem. 7KH URRP·V SROLVKHG FRQFUHWH ÁRRU FDQ cope with sand and spills too. The large and attractive room has a KLJK VWXG DQG LV ÀOOHG ZLWK OLJKW WKDQNV WR

Large doors, which open wide, let the outside in and encourage enjoyment of the pleasant back yard where wooden decking leads from the living area to the private lawn big enough for at least a couple of tents to accommodate holiday guests. The garage also serves as a bunk room. Beach living is all about enjoying the ocean, so the provision of an outside shower is an asset too. In designing this home, Kathy and Mike gave thought about now and the future. Currently, it’s a wonderful holiday home for a teenage family and friends, which will in the future be enjoyed by grandchildren too. And eventually, become a cosy, comfortable and practical retirement haven. myspace October 2016

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phone: 07 544 6407 mobile: 027 229 0761 www.rosscoscanvas.co.nz

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You can develop a garden that provides interest throughout the year by using plants with interesting and different foliage textures, colours and forms. Foliage is key. Try to plant contrasting textures, forms and colours side by side. Group plant for best effect and layer the plantings with differing heights. If everything is the same height it is boring. Include grass like textures like lomandra, carex, DVWHOLD à D[HV SDOPV YDULHJDWHG DJDSDQWKXV DQG OLEEHUWLD JROGÀQJHUV Combine these with shrubs like coprosma scarlet o’hara, nandina gulf stream, pittosporum golf ball or the ever-popular loropetalum plum delight. They

only need the occasional trim to keep them neat and the red foliage is very attractive. Leucodenedrons and grevilleas also give long-term colour and are very easy care. Cover the ground with low slung and creeping plants, which will help to keep the weeds down. Backbone plant with greens and reds. If you want to highlight an area, plant something with yellow foliage. Keep it simple and repeat plant for best effect. To learn more, see: www.decorgardenworld.co.nz or: www.facebook.com/decorgardenworld

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Grant and Sonia Bullot DeďŹ ning Sonia and Grant Bullot’s favourite spaces is elemental – they are those which involve earth, wind, water and ďŹ re. For the talented members of the Kiwi blues and roots band Kokomo, it’s often the season WKDW GHĂ€QHV ZKLFK LV WKH FXUUHQW ´IDYRXULWH favouriteâ€?. In autumn, winter and spring, and HYHQ LQ VXPPHU WKH Ă€UH SLW LQ WKH JDUGHQ ZLQV hands down. That’s where the couple love to make music, enjoy good food, conversation and laughs with family and friends. Grant, who co-founded Kokomo in 1991, built the pit, with an old washing machine bowl brassier in the centre, so it is the right depth to FRPIRUWDEO\ VLW DQG HQMR\ WKH Ă€UH¡V ZDUPWK In summer the Bullot family heads for their own private campsite on the banks of the Aongatete Stream, which runs along their property boundary, to swim, play – and, of course, make music. The river bank is where Grant and Sonia took their wedding vows and in the waters below, their children have learnt to swim, kayak and build river stone castles. 30

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Grant has built a stage on the sheltered grassy bank for summer concerts and tucked DZD\ LV D EDWK WR EH ÀOOHG ZLWK VWUHDPZDWHU KHDWHG E\ ÀUH It was music that brought Sonia and Grant WRJHWKHU 7KH\ ÀUVW PHW LQ WKH HDUO\ V DW the Bay of Islands Jazz Festival, where Sonia was performing with the legendary Wellington jazz band Flibbertijibbet. She toured with .RNRPR DV D JXHVW PXVLFLDQ EHIRUH RIÀFLDOO\ joining the band in 2001. When they bought the small rural block of land near Katikati, the only building was D IRUPHU SLJVW\ ÀWWHG ZLWK D EDVLF NLWFKHQ There they lived with two small children and during time created a two-storey family home alongside an artist’s studio for Grant. Their home is their favourite of all places, a sanctuary – somewhere to return to after travelling with Kokomo entertaining fans throughout the country.

In a shed in the heart of Mount Maunganui furniture-maker Adam Sinclair toils away on lathes, saws and planes to add an element of character to homes around the country. He’s a man completely at home in his workshop, consumed in the joy of his vocation bringing life to grain and groove. Adam gives a wry smile, laughing about how it has taken the ZDQGHULQJ 6FRWVPDQ KDOIZD\ DURXQG WKH JOREH WR ÀQG KLPVHOI Initially his focus was on working with recycled native timber. “There is nothing like working with the old pieces of rimu that have come out of a house and giving them a new life.” While he loves the special quality the old boards offer, working with recycled timber does bring its own challenges. “It’s quite time-consuming compared to new timber. They are never cut exactly straight, so always need some work before you begin.” >

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Now the bulk of his work is in his ‘Jetsons’ range of mid-Century Scandinavian design pieces – that cover everything from bedside tables, to dining and hall tables, to book cases and TV units. The Glasgow art school graduate credits his parents, who were always bringing home interesting art pieces and restoring their heritage home, as instilling his practical creativity – and a love for natural wood. Looking back, he thinks a turning point may have been when he turned up to woodwork class to make his bird box with a piece of wood his father gave him, rather than the dressed timber everyone else had. ´, HQGHG XS ZLWK VRPHWKLQJ WKDW ZDV DXWKHQWLF DQG ÀWWHG LQ WKH garden environment.” Adam still pinches himself that he gets to do this full-time. “Now I can’t imagine doing anything other than this,” he says, as he rubs his hand along the grain of his latest creation. The adventure began about seven years ago, when working in Whakapapa’s ski maintenance workshop he became a proud homeowner with his partner Fran. “We bought this 100-year-old villa in Raurimu, near National Park. It was in a pretty poor state and we didn’t have a lot of money, so we needed to do all the work ourselves.” The great feedback he had about the bathroom cabinet he 32

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made (recycled rimu and concrete top) encouraged him to make furniture. Friends were soon asking him to make items for them, then his big break came when he was asked to make beds and furniture for a new house being built in Pauanui. A few years later the couple shifted to Taupo, where Adam juggled part-time furniture projects with a fulltime job. When they shifted to the Mount four years ago Adam decided it was the perfect time to throw himself headlong into the work, with the aim of developing it into a fulltime business. “It was the right time to give the furniture a big push, to make it my full-time focus.” Starting from a slow burn, his sales have taken off with his furniture going to homes in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, and more recently the Western Bay. “I can’t believe the change in the past six months. Interest has really taken off here.” Adam puts it down to a combination of good word of mouth, and people shifting to the region who appreciate his contemporary furniture style. Adam also rates the mentions about his handcrafted furniture in home magazines and from industry insiders – including interior design blogger Tina Stevens of ‘Roomie’ – as being a great boost WR KLV SURÀOH “She’s been brilliant and has been putting lots of her clients in touch with me.” >

Adam has recently turned his ‘less is more’ approach to FUHDWLQJ FRQWHPSRUDU\ RIÀFH IXUQLWXUH DQG GHVNV IURP KLJK JUDGH Russian Birch plywood. This allows him to offer his appealing Scandinavian-inspired commercial work stations at a lower price. But it’s not all about the sales. Adam also likes to give back where he sees a worthy cause, something he recently did when he donated a set of eight desks to social change agency Innovate Change. The Auckland-based organisation won his support for the way it is fostering youth development and community with active, creative involvement of young people. “Learning about the great work they are doing, I wanted to do something to support them.” Knowing just how much more satisfaction there is in furnishing your home with pieces made by your own hands, Adam is now helping others do the same. He is making and selling metal hairpin legs to transform gorgeous wooden table tops into the centrepiece of a room. “You get a lot of joy from sitting at your own table.” Adam loves the great feedback he gets for the special pieces he makes himself, or helps others make. “There is something special in knowing that you are helping create a focal point in their home.”

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Things to consider at the beginning of your project and factor in early on in the planning process.

basin and other details and to create the illusion of a larger space in smaller bathrooms.

• Allow delivery time for products and installation schedules.

• Lighting, whether aesthetic or functional, the type and location will need to be determined early on.

• Some works may require a permit, allow for application and approval time.

• As part of the layout and construction process, storage options and design are an important feature.

• The service supply of water pipes and drainage will be a determinant of the bathroom layout. • Installation of proper moisture extraction and efficient ventilation. • Niches, they seem a small detail but play an important role in the function of a modern shower and bathroom, keeping bottles from cluttering the shower base or a convenient foot rest shaving shelf. They are part of the early planning stages. • Heat source: like the installation of an underfloor heating system or heated towel rails, which require timber fixing points and electrical supply.

• If tiling, it’s worth spending the extra to have walls properly prepared by straightening timbers to remove lumps, giving an even and lasting finish. • When installing a rain shower or certain shower hoses, bear in mind the size and capacity of the hot water cylinder to supply a higher volume of water. • The project must be managed efficiently ensuring all trades are scheduled to minimise the time and inconvenience of being without the use of your bathroom. By Maxine Young, Manro

• Mirrors should be considered early on as part of an overall harmonious composition with the vanity,

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A family affair

Buying a section and building a new home takes vision, courage and trust. Vision and courage because the process begins with bare land and a set of plans – not a ready-made house and garden to walk through. And trust because someone else is going to turn those plans into a home for you. ´,W DOVR UHSUHVHQWV D VLJQLÀFDQW LQYHVWPHQW ZKHWKHU LW LV D ÀUVW RU subsequent home,” says Abbie Raleigh of Abron Group. “We understand how daunting building a new home can appear to be, which is why we take a personal interest in our clients and their project. We listen to you and work tirelessly to deliver on your vision, with your overall budget and practical requirements at the core.”

Abron Group is both property developers and home builders – and what’s more, the Tauranga based company is owned by the Scott Family with founder Howard as director, son Cameron as operations manager and daughter Abbie the marketing and administration manager. The fact that Abron is a family business is a strong point of difference because clients are dealing with the company’s owners, who take a very personal pride in ensuring the new subdivisions Abron Group develop and the houses it builds are of the very highest standard. Abron Group was founded in Tauranga in 1998 by Howard, who had been involved in land developments in

The Abron management team: Howard, Abbie and Cam Scott.

Kerikeri, Nelson and Auckland’s North Shore. Cameron, who has a background in farming, earthworks and construction, joined the business in the early-2000s and Abbie in 2014, reinforcing the strong family culture of the business. Abron Group is primarily a land developer, currently working in joint ventures with Lighthouse Group. Home construction has also been a focus in recent years with up to 75 homes built annually.

A DEVELOPMENT BY

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STAGE ONE SOLD OUT STAGE TWO COMING SOON 36

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Abron Group and Lighthouse Group have just launched four exciting new VXEGLYLVLRQV ² +LJKĂ€HOGV &URVVLQJ DW Katikati and 262 On The Reserve and The Grove on Western, both in Omokoroa. The second stage of Norfolk Rise at %URRNĂ€HOG LV GXH IRU UHOHDVH QH[W \HDU House and land packages are available in each of the subdivisions, but sections are also available for purchase. +LJKĂ€HOGV &URVVLQJ LQ WKH KHDUW RI Katikati, will have a total of 61 lots with nine in Stage 1 already sold. At 262 On The Reserve, bordering Omokoroa’s sportsgrounds, 21 house and land packages are pre-sold and six house and land packages are now available in stage 2A. The Grove on Western, at the end of Western Ave Omokoroa, also has several pre-sold sections with Abron being the principle construction company on many of those contract builds. 1RUIRON 5LVH DW %URRNĂ€HOG LQ 7DXUDQJD is a 37-lot development with 16 house and land packages in Stage 1A also sold. Abron has among its staff highly skilled professionals with expertise in land development and project management and also works closely with local builders, subcontractors, engineers and surveyors who they know and trust. The company utilises a detailed project management system that manages

timelines, making sure contractors and suppliers are where they need to be to get your build completed on time. “This, along with our involvement at the start of the planning process, adds value, insights and cost-saving design features to our client’s investment,� says Abbie. “We aim to create homes that are achievable for all New Zealanders, in communities that have street appeal. “We provide all the features that Kiwis look for in a lifestyle and in a lifetime investment. “We aim to make the building experience easy and enjoyable, while making new friendships along the way.�

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The greener grass Does the grass always look greener over your neighbour’s fence? It did for Geoff Luke, who used Kiwi ingenuity to come up with a system to literally roll the mat out for a fresh lawn. Together with a few mates who’d struggled to establish healthy lawns, they came up with the Woolgro method to establish great grass using natural waste products that help sustain the lawn with its nutrients. By mixing dag wool, ZDVWH ZRRO DQG MXWH ÀEUH from used coffee sacks, they created the Woolgro mat – which is infused with

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grass seed – ready to roll out over prepared ground to transform into lush lawn. Forget about the hassle of weighing seed then applying it at the right rate – the mat system does it all for you. “The beauty of the mat is that it does create the perfect germination environment for the seed,” says Geoff. By combining dag wool – which has long been a gardener’s favourite fertiliser – with the water retention qualities of jute, the multilayered matting helps feed and sustain infused grass

seed in the perfect germination environment. Coming in 10m length rolls, the lawn can be laid by homeowners or installed by professionals. The Woolgro lawn mat is environmentally friendly, and an easy alternative

to hand seeding, instant lawn RU DUWLÀFLDO WXUI ² ZKLFK LV now available here in the Bay of Plenty. There is also a unique lawn guarantee to those who choose their Full Lawn Installation Service.

Fabric types, colours, plain or print, pleats, gathers, folds, ready-made or custom-made? So many curtain decisions. And what about pleats? French, Dutch, inverted, single, double or triple pinch, pencil – the list goes on. Curtains can make or break a room, and there are many things to consider in getting it right. Your best friend will be a consultant, or Google. Fabric should be your first decision, because the material will determine how well your curtains hold up over time, how functional they’ll be, and could also narrow down your pleat options – you can’t convincingly triple-pleat lace. Other considerations are: • Linings – do you want heavy or light, white or coloured, regular or blackout? • Length – how high above the window do you want the curtains to begin? How far below the sill or above the floor do you want them to hang? • Colours and designs – try a sample piece at least two metres wide in the room to see how it will look. • Off-the-shelf or custom-made – custom-made will usually give a better fit, but at greater expense.

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Top New Zealand author Susan Brocker’s Kauri farmhouse sits at the top of a rather narrow 200 metre driveway, with a very steep slope, on Keenan Rd, Pyes Pa. And no, it wasn’t built on-site. “It was built in the 1890s near Morrinsville, and moved here about 20 years ago.â€? The moving of the 300m2 house was challenging. ´7KH\ VSOLW LW LQ KDOI DQG JRW WKH Ă€UVW KDOI XS EXW FRXOGQ¡W JHW the second half up, so they sat it down the road by a kiwifruit orchard for a few months while they built another road up.â€? Susan and husband Lionel Crawley bought the house 16 years ago, and have done a lot of refurbishing. “A lot of these old farmhouses have big areas in the roof. 7KH RULJLQDO IDUPKRXVH KDG D Ă€UH LQ WKH DWWLF VR WKH SHRSOH ZKR owned it before us had to replace the roof, and rebuild the entire URRI OLQH :H ZHUH OXFN\ WKH\ DGGHG DOO WKH URRPV XSVWDLUV VR ZH didn’t have any major renovation work to do.â€? The new build matched the style of the damaged house, thanks to an older carpenter who was fastidious about sourcing old wood. The lower half of the house is still original, although 40

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Cheesecake & Pavlova

the previous owners opened it up a lot – and Susan and Lionel have now put their own stamp on it. “We were just titivating, while keeping the house in character. We used old-fashioned wallpaper, big old friezes, and so on. We didn’t try to modernise it.â€? The large four-poster Balinese bed came from The Importer on Devonport Rd, while much of the other furniture came from overseas. “When we lived in Holland we bought a lot of old, old Belgian furniture. The big oak cabinet in the lounge is a Mechelen piece, about 150 years old.â€? While most of the refurbishing went smoothly, Susan did KDYH RQH VPDOO GLVDVWHU WKDQNV WR VRPH VKDUS FODZHG Ă XIIEDOOV Just after one of the upstairs rooms was completed, Susan started fostering SPCA kittens, and “foolishlyâ€? put a litter of the ferocious little beasts in that room. “They ripped all the wallpaper, shredded a chair, and slashed the curtains. So I moved them out of that bedroom and put them in the outdoor laundry, and they absolutely destroyed it. It’s staying like that as the SPCA kitten room.â€? Lionel was overseas at the time, and when he surveyed the damage on his return, he simply rolled his eyes. “He’s very tolerant,â€? says Susan. The couple already have a medium-sized menagerie, including 29 Angora goats, named after desserts, such as Cheesecake and Pavlova, or fruit, such as Strawberry. Each goat has a starting letter on its ear tag, and Susan uses that as the starting letter for their name, which can be challenging. “It was a battle for X. Lionel found Xigua, the Chinese name for watermelon, by which it is commonly called in Africa. We also have Zab, which is from the Italian dessert Zabaglione.â€? The rest of the menagerie has equally inventive names. “We have two cats, Lili Marlene and our little devil Lucifer, horses Al Capone and Xena, and white Swiss shepherd Loki.â€? Susan didn’t have a theme in her head for the design, but a walk through the house suggests ‘rustic country chic’. Some of her ideas came from magazines, others from observing. “Over the years I’ve collected ideas I like. I’ve always loved old homes. When we lived in Auckland I used to walk around Herne Bay and look at all the old villas.â€? Susan’s top suggestion for others considering a renovation project is to visit similar styled homes they love and see what works for them.

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Bring instant sophistication to your home with black and white accessories.

These two ‘colours’ are always in style and don’t tend to date like those shades on the colourwheel. Matt black is ultra modern and works well with marble for a simple and pared back look. Feel that black could be a bit harsh? Cork softens the look, along with the addition of some greenery and a lamp which when turned on at night, casts a soft glow. Another tip for softening the look is placing your favourite black and white objects on a timber surface. It’s not jarring like stone or concrete and gives a natural warmth to any setting. Furnish, www.furnish.co.nz

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Beds R Us Mount Maunganui 5 Owens Place / 07 5721836 Beds R Us Tauranga 683 Cameron Road / 07 5799074

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Peace of mind. Guaranteed For most people, building a new home or taking on a renovation is a major event. We recognise the level of trust our customers place in us and we’ll do everything we can to make it a rewarding experience.

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TO FIND A NZCB MEMBER CALL

0800 CERTIFIED ( 0800 237 843 )

OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE

nzcb.nz

Has your builder got what it takes? Building or renovating is an exciting time for many New Zealand families, yet it’s claimed to be the third most stressful experience behind death and a marriage breakup. Choosing the right builder to lead your next project could be the difference between enjoyment and heartbreak. Not all EXLOGHUV DUH FUHDWHG HTXDO VR KHUH DUH 1HZ =HDODQG &HUWLĂ€HG %XLOGHUV $VVRFLDWLRQV¡ WRS Ă€YH TXHVWLRQV UHFRPPHQGHG WR DVN your builder to ensure they can deliver lasting memories of a great building experience.

Trade QualiďŹ ed (QVXUH \RXU EXLOGHU KDV D WUDGH TXDOLĂ€FDWLRQ 7KH KRPHRZQHU has the right to know if their builder is appropriately trained and has the skills and ethics to do a great job. $ IRUPDO TXDOLĂ€FDWLRQ HVWDEOLVKHV WKH ULJKW EDVLV IURP ZKLFK D craftsman can hone their trade. A good foundation for your next project is critical - the same goes for your builder.

Company structure ,W FDQ EH SUHWW\ GHà DWLQJ ZKHQ SURPLVHV DUH PDGH EXW QRW delivered, ask your builder what their company structure looks like. Will they be your key contact person? Are they on the tools or off the tools? It’s important to ensure the person who discusses contract and design variations with you, is close to the person who will be carrying out these changes in the construction. Have your builder talk you through their process when a variation occurs and ensure that process incorporates your approval before the variation is undertaken.

Building contract The agreement of a committed relationship between builder and homeowner is cemented with a building contract. A building contract does not need to be complicated and in a language only a lawyer can understand. Ask your builder for a sample copy of the building contract, and ensure it is in plain English and relevant to the nature of work being undertaken. Once signed, the contract is often not picked up again unless there is a problem, so ensure the disputes process within the contract is workable and will cater for low value disputes.

Up skilling It takes consideration and care before design work is ready for construction, to ensure that it is supported going forward, taking into account recent law changes designed to protect the consumer, which means a lot of regulation and building science circulating behind the scenes. How does your builder keep up with the consistent shifts in the building industry? Building trade associations such as NZCB have education programs keeping their members at the top of their game. Ask your builder to show you their membership card.

Building guarantee Not all building guarantees are created equal, beware there are plenty of boy scout mottos on the market. Ensure your builder can offer you a third party provided guarantee, should something unfortunate happen to your builder you’ll be looking for an independent underwriter who supports you. And should you sell the house before the 10-year building guarantee expires, you’ll be needing a building guarantee which automatically transfers to the new purchaser. myspace October 2016

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landscapes If you are needing a few ideas for freshening up your garden this spring, look no further than these top tips for creating modern, functional landscapes. Sharp contrasts Contrasts in colour, form and texture can really modernise a garden. Why not try black garden mulch around striking green flax or next to crisp white garden pavers? Coloured mulch not only helps to prevent weeds and keep soils cool, it will give your garden a designer edge. Bold colours Colour is the easiest way to create a theme in your garden. Using different flowers and plants with similar hues will bring a natural cohesion to your yard. Sticking to a colour palette not only brings unity to your outdoor spaces, it saves on decision-making time when out shopping for plants. Focal point Creating a focal point in your garden will draw the eye towards the part of your garden you want to highlight, while also helping distract wandering eyes from the ‘still to be finished’ areas. Objects or plants can be the focus. Try a rusty old bike on a bed of red mulch with Tumbling Tom tomatoes falling from it’s basket. From Marion Kleinsmith, Goodwood NZ myspace my mys ysspac y pac p ac ace O October Oc Octo c to b ct cto berr 2016 201 20 016 0 01 16

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Peter Blakeway Internationally renowned Tauranga chef Peter Blakeway is recognisable from TV1’s ‘Breakfast’ show, Robson Green’s ‘Extreme Fishing’ programme, and the Bay of Plenty episode of ‘New Zealand on a Plate’. Peter also taught the Bay of Plenty Steamers and Super 14 Chiefs rugby teams to cook easy, fun and nutritious meals in a three-part series of cook school classes Ă€OPHG E\ 6N\ 5XJE\¡V Âś5XJE\ &HQWUH¡ programme. A popular host at many Bay food events, such as the Tauranga Moana Seafood Festival, the Home Show and the Maketu Seafood Festival, it comes as no surprise Peter’s favourite space is the kitchen. “It’s the FHQWUH RI RXU KRPH SK\VLFDOO\ DQG LW¡V ZKHUH we go to eat, talk, and digest the entire day.â€? Peter loves cooking for his family, wife Anne and teenage boys Alex and Fraser, and it’s a passion they share. “All of my family are really good cooks.â€? It’s a fair achievement by any parent to get teenage boys to sit at the dining table for 48

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dinner with mum and dad. Peter and Anne not only manage that, but the boys talk to them, rather than texting their mates. “They know no different. Ever since they were two years old, whenever we’ve all been together, we’ve all eaten together. The process of cooking together and eating together is something we do every night we can.� Peter admits that, like every parent, he does have to tell them to put their phones down. “You have to stay consistent – keep saying it again, and again, and again. It’s very important to Anne and I that we have that time as a family. It’s worth it. We talk, cook, sit down, and enjoy food together.� And at the end of the meal? “Admittedly, I shy away from the washing up as much as possible.�

You’ve found a beautiful new table lamp to add to your home but have you really given much thought to the perfect shade? The right lampshade can make all the difference in transforming your base into something fabulous, whereas an ill-fitting shade can make a lamp look out of proportion or seem inappropriate for its location. So how do you choose the perfect lampshade? Rule of thumb, anything goes but be careful of proportion – the diameter of the bottom of the shade should not be greater than the height of the lamp base. Think about the style of the lamp when selecting a shade… if you have a busy lamp base, generally you would choose a plainer shade and vice versa. Also consider the texture you’d like for your lampshade. There are such a wide variety of custom options to choose from in any number of fabrics and even wallpapers, enabling you to create something exquisite. Choose similar colour tones for your base and shade unless you are going for a striking standout piece, in which case, anything goes! Florence & Co, Home Furnishings and Design

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FLORENCE & CO. HOME FURNISHINGS AND DESIGN 55 Ninth Ave, Tauranga 07 281 1409 www.florenceandco.com

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Meth-checking your property purchase Methamphetamine – or ‘meth’ as it is commonly known – is a highly addictive and dangerous drug and is an increasing problem in New Zealand. A major issue when manufacturing meth, apart from the danger of explosion, is the amount of poisonous waste that is created. )RU HDFK TXDQWLW\ RI WKH GUXJ PDGH Ă€YH VL[ WLPHV WKDW DPRXQW of poisonous waste is created and is extremely dangerous, even in small amounts. This toxic waste is also left behind in a house where meth is, or has been, smoked. It contaminates a house and FDQ UHPDLQ LQGHĂ€QLWHO\ LI QRW SURSHUO\ UHPHGLDWHG Exposure to the chemicals and byproducts of manufacturing or smoking meth can have serious health consequences, and in extreme cases has the potential to be fatal. Warning signs While a large number of meth labs are found in rental properties, there are many other indicators the property may have been used to manufacture meth. These include: • Unusual chemical smells. • Dead or dying vegetation around drains. • Glass or rubber tubing in the property.

Protecting yourself In order to prevent yourself from unknowingly purchasing a meth contaminated property, you can: 1. Make your agreement for sale and purchase conditional upon \RX EHLQJ VDWLVĂ€HG ZLWK WKH UHVXOWV RI D GUXJV WHVW :H VXJJHVW this is undertaken by a company specialising in this testing, rather than testing yourself with a ‘home kit’. 2. Question the agent and the vendor directly regarding their knowledge of previous meth contamination, testing undertaken and tenants if applicable. 2EWDLQ D /,0 UHSRUW RU WKH SURSHUW\ Ă€OH 4. Have a chat to a neighbour. They may be able to shed some light on how the property had previously been used, or the activities of previous tenants. A positive meth test in a house may not always be a deal-breaker for a purchaser. Remediation may be an option, but a purchaser will need to check they can comply with obligations to their lender, insurer and, or, tenants. If you are looking to purchase a house, you should discuss the appropriate terms and conditions to include with your lawyer prior to signing an agreement.

• Chemical stains around the sink, laundry or drains. • Yellow or brown stains on ceilings, walls or appliance surfaces. • Unusual activity at the property, particularly at night.

Kate Grimmer Associate, Holland Beckett Lawyers, www.hobec.co.nz myspace October 2016

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Sheryl Johnson and partner Mark Cooper had a matter-of-fact reason for renovating their 1960s house. “It was pretty knackered,â€? says Sheryl. It was also too small. “With a bit of DIY, we now have three bedrooms, an HQVXLWH DQ RIĂ€FH DQG D ZDON LQ VFXOOHU\ Âľ Sheryl details what “a bit of DIYâ€? involved. “We took off all the cladding, put in new windows and new cladding, took out all the plaster board and replaced that. “We pulled all the ceilings down, a horrible chip-boardy WKLQJ 3UHWW\ PXFK HYHU\WKLQJ ZDV UHSODFHG IURP Ă€[WXUHV DQG Ă€WWLQJV WR FRPSOHWHO\ UHZLULQJ WKH KRXVH ² DQG ZH LQVWDOOHG a completely new bathroom and kitchen. It’s basically a brand QHZ KRXVH H[FHSW IRU WKH Ă RRUERDUGV Âľ 7KDW¡V TXLWH ´D ELWÂľ RI ',< $QG LW¡V QRW RYHU \HW WKHUH¡V VWLOO one side of the house to go. 52

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Before

The couple is living on-site while the renovations go on around them. “It means we can just do little bits and pieces when we have the time, and I love seeing the project evolve over time.� Living conditions during a major renovation can be a little challenging, but Sheryl takes it in her stride. “I think I’m probably used to it, living with a Master Builder.� Most of the design ideas Sheryl found on Houzz – a website for home renovation and design. More than 40 million homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals from around the world contribute to the site. “It’s great. You go to the site, and there are so many ideas. I took bits and pieces from some of them, and for the bedroom I just about copied one on there. I’m inspired by seeing what other people do, and evolving it into something cool that suits our space.�

In the bedroom photograph on Houzz there was a picture on the wall with all the colours Sheryl wanted. “When I went to Thailand I saw all the artists on the side of the road. I downloaded the picture, gave it to an artist, and three days and $80 later she had it Ă€QLVKHG Âľ The biggest issue during the renovations VR IDU KDV EHHQ WKH Ă RRU ´7KH RULJLQDO ZRRGHQ Ă RRULQJ ZDV DOO RXW of level. Mark went under the house and had to pack a few piles to level up a couple of places.â€? The dust while living amongst a renovation project is also “a tad annoyingâ€?, as it means more vacuuming. At this stage of the renovation project, if they had the chance to go back and start again, would they do it differently? “I think Mark would probably have preferred to bowl the building and start from scratch. I think that would have

been quicker. But this way it has a bit of FKDUDFWHU DQG LW KDV WKH RULJLQDO Ă RRULQJ “I guess we ended up pretty much building a new house.â€? The striking front path reutilises sleepers from the original house, where they were part of the old conservatory. “I wanted to keep the sleepers, and I liked the idea of the big concrete pavers, as their JUH\ PDWFKHV WKH KRXVH DQG WKHQ , ZDQWHG to bring some more white in, which is where the stones come in.â€? Sheryl took her inspiration from an existing path. “I drove past a house, and thought, I like that. I wanted an entrance – something to draw your eye in when you come up to the front door.â€? 6KHU\O¡V¡ Ă€QDO DGYLFH WR RWKHUV LV GR D ORW of research. “Have an idea in your head about the theme you want going through your house. And visit: www.houzz.co.nz Houzz is great.â€? myspace October 2016

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Don’t get burnt by bad firewood The New Zealand Home Heating Association reports that as many as 95 per cent of complaints received are a direct result of poor fuel. For this reason, it is important to only burn wellVHDVRQHG ÀUHZRRG 7KH PRLVWXUH FRQWHQW VKRXOG EH OHVV WKDQ per cent, and ideally less than 18 per cent. Green or ‘wet’ wood can hold up to its own weight in moisture and sap, which requires time in the elements to evaporate. Softwoods such as pine will season quickly (6-12 months), ZKLOH KDUGZRRGV OLNH PDQXND WDNH VLJQLÀFDQWO\ ORQJHU GXH WR WKH density and cell structure (18-36 months). Don’t worry too much about surface water from rain, as this will burn off quickly if the wood is well-seasoned.

'U\ ZRRG FOHDQHU EXUQLQJ ÀUHV OHVV FUHRVRWH DQG VRRW LQ \RXU ÁXH SLSH How to test your wood: 1. The most accurate way is to purchase a digital moisture meter (available online from www.pyroclassic.co.nz). Split a large log and spike the centre. 2. Knock two pieces together. If it ‘rings’ rather than ‘thuds’, then it is likely to be dry enough to burn. 3. Look for circular splits at the end of your logs. If these are present it indicates well-seasoned wood. Tips for storing wood:

Test the moisture content of the fuel from your local wood merchant before you buy it to ensure you get what you pay for.

• Split large logs so the widest surface area is exposed to the elements.

Don’t assume just because they are selling it, the wood is ready to burn. Kiln dried wood is more expensive but a good option if you need fuel on short notice, as it can be used straight away.

• Stack wood loosely, with the ends of the logs facing the prevailing wind.

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• Leave bark on logs as it acts as nature’s rain jacket.

Let there be Lillian’s hallway is long and it used to be dark, very dark. Conventional lighting wouldn’t have helped much, so Lillian took design matters into her own hand and produced a trough light that’s several metres long. “Now when I turn the light on, it’s like daylight.�

Lillian brainstormed with a friend to come up with her unique design. “I didn’t want to use regular ply, as it would have taken take too long to shape, so I used a thin ply that was easy to bend. Bendy Ply.â€? The trough runs the length of the hallway, with a 45-degree bend at one end. The light trough was part of an extensive DIY renovation of Lillian’s 1950s-built home. “It was really grotty and run down, and had bad condensation problems. I wanted to make it more modern.â€? The project turned out to be a much bigger job than expected. “When you start, you always think, I can do this in six months,â€? laughs Lillian. “I’m still doing it.â€? Lillian faced more than just your regular DIY FKDOOHQJHV SDUW ZD\ WKURXJK WKH SURMHFW VKH ZDV diagnosed with breast cancer. “You can’t really do much when you’re feeling groggy and nauseous.â€? During treatment, instead of renovating, she worked on murals. “I might have had one or two hours when I felt good, so I’d do a little bit at a time.â€? 6KH QRZ KRSHV WR Ă€QLVK WKH ZRUN GXULQJ VXPPHU 7KLV LQFOXGHV SXWWLQJ WKH Ă€QLVKLQJ WRXFKHV RQ KHU :RPDQ¡V &DYH D WZLVW RQ WKH WUDGLWLRQDO 0DQ¡V &DYH “I wanted somewhere my friends and I could get together.â€? There are a lot of Lillian’s personal touches down there in the basement. She sourced many items, VXFK DV SLFWXUH IUDPHV IURP Ă HD PDUNHWV VWULSSHG them down, sanded and repainted them. She’s a keen recycler – even the surround sound stereo system has EHHQ SXW WRJHWKHU IURP UHSXUSRVHG Ă HD PDUNHW LWHPV myspace October 2016

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create an outdoor room with an opening roof system

all day sun and privacy control with vertical louvres ®

OPENING ROOFS / SUN LOUVRES / SHUTTERS

visit our showroom at 135 Totara Street Mount Maunganui

Ph 07 574 6040 or email office@louvretec.com for a no obligation site visit & quote

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If retro style appeals to you, choose a lounge suite style that gives a subtle nod to the 70’s without being too overt. The tan leather, splayed legs and clean lines of this Stockholm suite ensure that the looks stays modern while still giving a subtle retro flavour. This look is echoed with the use of the coffee table which features the same splayed legs. This understated retro look is easy to achieve

with accessories too. We started with a couple of retro shaped vessels and have added other modern elements to achieve a simple and cohesive look. A quick and easy way to add texture and warmth is with the addition of a throw. We’ve used a cosy knitted one here with metallic spots, which co-ordinates perfectly with the other metallic finds. Furnish, www.furnish.co.nz

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Coastal renovation triumph Award winning houses look stunning in the photographs, but what are they like to live in? “It’s like living in a retreat,” says Tracey Bruce of her home at Tanners Point that picked up silver in the 2012 Master Builders House of the Year renovation category.

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Built in the 1970s, when building codes were different and regulations were fewer, Tracey’s home was renovated four years ago extensively by A. Knight Builders – and owner Adam Knight says it was challenging. “Everything was crooked. The floors were uneven and the walls weren’t straight. We had to modernise it a lot to bring it up to today’s high standards.” That included putting in large steel portal frames to brace the ceiling both in the existing house and in the extensions. “Normally you put the steel up and build the house around it, but we had to retro-fit the steel into an existing building,” says Adam. “That was interesting.” The previous owners renovated it with feng shui and energy healing in mind, and Tracey says it’s been a real place of healing for her. “The views of water and having green coming in from so many windows makes it feel pretty Zen.” Adam and his team of fellow Waihi Beach locals specialise in coastal property construction. “If you’re planning on building near the beach you need to talk to us first. You’re building a house in pretty much the most extreme weather environment you’ll find in New Zealand. You have to plan for that.” This includes water-proofing that allows for high winds driving rain upwards and using products that won’t deteriorate in salt and sand. “It’s about designing to the elements.” Adam has seen many examples of houses built by those who don’t have his understanding of this specialist design field. “Many houses on the beachfront built five years ago look like they’ve been there for 20.” A. Knight Builders continue to build award winning homes. They picked up another win this year in the Bay of Plenty Central Plateau Registered Master Builders House of the Year, taking out silver in the Carters New Home $1-$2 million category. Adam is proud of his team of highly experienced and skilled tradesmen. “When combined with our trusted local contractors, no job is too big, too difficult, or too challenging for us. We build our clients homes that will stand the test of time.”

A. KNIGHT BUILDERS LTD

The team also tackles commercial, including a number of large developments at the popular Waihi Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort. Co-owner Ian Smith says Adam and crew are great at suggesting alternatives to produce a better look or a more economic result. “Adam’s attention to detail and the high level of his work makes him our first choice builder.”

T: (07) 863 5268 M: 021 562 895 W: aknightbuilders.com

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Natalie Bridges Natalie Bridges’ ‘blue room’ is a deep shade of blue. “The colour is enveloping and comforting like your favourite blanket.” Natalie says the room is also calming, and the perfect setting for reading books, relaxing and talking. “And that’s pretty much what we do in it. It’s my and my husband’s favourite spot on Friday and Saturday nights. We have a wee whiskey on ice from our old-fashioned globe drinks trolley and read our books.” Favourite and current reads are stacked in the corner of the room on a wire bookshelf, which keeps them focused on their reading list. The rest of their books are in another room. “We also love to sit with our two little boys in there and snuggle up. We love colour, textiles and textures, and layering fabrics and styles.” The blue room is the opposite of many minimalist New Zealand homes. 60

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´, JXHVV WKH (QJOLVK LQWHULRUV LQÁXHQFH just always bursts forth no matter how hard I try to hold it back – so I’ve given up and just feel happy around the bits and pieces we’ve collected over the years that bring warm memories.” The big blue Oxford dictionary was a gift to the couple on their return visit to Oxford University, where they met. The painting EHKLQG 1DWDOLH LV WKH ÀUVW ELW RI DUW WKH\ bought together on a road trip in Central Otago. There’s also a big window that looks out onto a wall of ivy. “We love this disorderly, rambling carpet of green and we’ll sometimes position bird food at the window so we get a personal bird show too. “The oversized footstool in the middle invites you to put your feet up. And while I don’t get to do it every night, the nights that I do are pretty special.”

Less is more Regardless of whether the budget is generous or limited – less is more. Choose a few exceptional pieces and don’t clutter a space. Spend time collating your ideas and vision. Create a scrapbook of interior design images that appeal to you, so your designer has an idea of the style you like. If not using a professional, this process will ensure consistent style throughout your home.

Plan your indoor and outdoor flow Make sure you plan at concept stage. Create a cohesion between your indoor and outdoor areas, whether it be materials, tone or texture.

Separate your space Separate your areas for adult and child activities, as this is essential for happy cohesive living.

Create effective lighting A good lighting plan is integral to performing tasks and creating good ambience. Make sure your working areas are well lit, and use ambient lighting in other living areas. Don’t dismiss the idea of working with an expert – they’re worth it. The Design Depot www.thedesigndepot.co.nz

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When renovating a kitchen or bathroom, tiles add a splash of colour and provide a durable surface to last many years. Consider these tips before choosing tiles: • Tiles can make small rooms seem cluttered and too busy, and can get lost in large rooms. • Planks tile are growing in popularity, as they achieve a timber look without the wear and tear or maintenance requirements RI D UHDO WLPEHU ÁRRU • Basalt, marble, and granite create an elegant look that never dates. • You get what you pay for – cheap tiles are cheap for a reason. • You need a good substrate – if the wall has a bow in it, the tiles will also bow. • Use a tile system – stick to one brand of grout, silicone DQG ZDWHUSURRÀQJ SURGXFWV 3URGXFWV IURP GLIIHUHQW manufacturers may not be compatible. • Hire a good tiler – ask around for recommendations. • Greys and neutrals are the safest options for grout colours – creative colours don’t work, and are harder to clean. • Keep tiles clean with warm soapy water on a regular basis. Palazzo Ltd • www.palazzoltd.co.nz

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How do you choose a landscape designer?

Choosing the right landscape designer is vital – because your decision underpins the ultimate success of your landscape project. It is up to the designer to listen to your ideas and make those ideas a reality. $V D FOLHQW \RX QHHG WR GHĂ€QH ZKDW LW is you wish to achieve – and include as much detail as possible. When choosing a professional landscape designer ask around your friends and acquaintances for recommendations, check the Yellow Pages, magazines and internet. Speak to several specialists before making your decision. Make sure you’re employing the right person for the job - if you require a full makeover then a landscape designer maybe required. But if you require a general ‘tidy up’ then a landscape contractor may be more aligned. Anyone can call themselves a landscape designer, so don’t be shy DERXW DVNLQJ DERXW WKHLU TXDOLĂ€FDWLRQV and experience. And ask to see their portfolio or – if possible –look at some of their work. Ask for references or 64

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testimonials – often these are included in their website. It is so important you get the right person, who is compatible with your budget, lifestyle and taste. You must feel completely comfortable with this person and feel like you are on the same “wave-link�. Finally, don’t be shy about asking about their fee structure. Landscape designers prefer to see the property and meet the clients before they can give a realistic estimate of the costs involved in creating a design plan. The design process is a framework of steps. The landscape designer’s main objective is to achieve a design that meets the clients overall request – this is the client brief. The designer gathers all the information about the site and the client then analyses this information to prepare a programme statement, which

is a list of all the elements and requirements the design solution must achieve and satisfy. Next a concept plan is drawn up, where HDFK DUHD LV LGHQWLÀHG IRU D SDUWLFXODU IXQFWLRQ )RU H[DPSOH a utility area, entrance area etc. The pattern plan is produced, which shows shapes and materials for each area. For example, lawn for the active area, hard surface for the passive area. It does not include any planting at this stage and is not seen by the client. 7KH ÀUVW SODQ SUHVHQWHG WR WKH FOLHQW LV WKH SURSRVDO SODQ this contains all the information about structures, materials and colours that are relevant. The proposal plan is then discussed with the client and any changes are made. The planting concept is next created, where plant features, for example, height and FRORXU DUH LQGLFDWHG 7KLV LV WKHQ ÀQH WXQHG LQWR D SODQWLQJ SODQ ready for implementation. This process is an example of the framework used, however all landscape designers will have their own way of doing things depending on how they were taught and their own experience. As a client, it is important for you to know there is a framework a designer should use to create you own personalised design and you only see the end result through a series of logical steps. By Michelle McDonnell, MM Landscape Design

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For all your bathroom and plumbing requirements, specialist knowledge and expertise,

CALL IN AND TALK TO OUR EXPERIENCED SHOWROOM CONSULTANTS. CATALOGUE OUT NOW Grab your copy instore or view online at plumbingworld.co.nz

New Kitchens Kitchen Renovations Vanities Wardrobes Custom Joinery Project Management

Tauranga. 36 Birch Avenue. Ph 07 571 0206 Mt.Maunganui. 62 Hewletts Road. Ph 07 572 9008

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bathrooms Creating the perfect bathroom for your home requires time and planning – you need to factor in spacial layout and design aesthetics but ultimately function is the main part of the formula. Here some layout hints that should get you thinking: • First impressions are important so keep the toilet out of direct line of sight of the doorway • Small spaces require different solutions – think wall-hung and in-wall cisterns when it comes to vanities and toilets • Weigh up whether you need to move your fixtures – this adds additional expense when perhaps the fittings just need refreshing

• Showers and heated towel rails are like cheerio’s and tomato sauce, they just belong together • Create practical storage with a recessed mirror cabinet and declutter your vanity • For maximum ventilation and extraction extractor fans need to be near your shower • Think about a general floor waste - a great allpurpose safety measure for overflowing water Plumbing World www.plumbingworld.co.nz

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If you’re planning to build something new, make changes to an existing structure, or do something with your land that may impact on the environment, there are certain guidelines you need to adhere to and consents you need to obtain.

The building and planning areas of Tauranga City Council can provide advice on working within New Zealand’s building and resource management legislation. Council also processes building, resource and subdivision consents. All three consents are very different, and depending on your project you may need one, two, or all three. Here’s an overview of the building process and what you’re required to do with and get from council. Please give council a call on 07 577 7000 if you have any questions – the more information we have, the easier and quicker the process will be! 1 Have a great idea, and prepare your plans. 2 Apply for a Project Information Memorandum – known as PIM – if you want to check that your project complies with the Building Act, the City Plan and that natural hazards have been taken into account. &RXQFLO FKHFNV \RXU SODQV DQG VSHFLĂ€FDWLRQV IRU FRPSOLDQFH ² you may be required to provide additional information at this stage. 4 Pay your invoice and receive your Building Consent once issued. 5 The building work can begin! 6 Council carry out building inspections during the building process as required. $SSO\ IRU &RGH &RPSOLDQFH &HUWLĂ€FDWH

Book an inspection Please phone Tauranga City Council Building Inspections on 07 578 6666 between 8am-5pm Monday-Friday to book an inspection. When your building consent is issued, you will receive a list of inspections required. Inspections are carried out over the course of the work. The type of inspections will depend on the nature of your building work. Most inspections require on-site representation. Please check this when booking your inspection and make sure you can be

available. Inspections are booked for early or late mornings and DIWHUQRRQV ZLWK QR VSHFLÀF WLPHV VHW H[FHSW IRU ÀQDO LQVSHFWLRQV The approved consent plans and associated documents must be on-site for all inspections. Inspections are carried out to verify construction is as per the consented documents and provide a record of the inspection ÀQGLQJV 7KH LQVSHFWRU ZLOO OHDYH RU HPDLO D VLWH QRWLFH SURYLGLQJ some detail and the outcome of the inspection. It is the owner’s responsibility to provide suitable access to the building work so council can complete the inspection of all building elements.

Code Compliance CertiďŹ cate $ &RGH &RPSOLDQFH &HUWLĂ€FDWH LV LVVXHG ZKHQ EXLOGLQJ ZRUN LV FRPSOHWHG DQG FRQĂ€UPV WKH ZRUN GRQH FRPSOLHV ZLWK WKH building consent. This shows the work is legal. &RXQFLO LVVXHV &RGH &RPSOLDQFH &HUWLĂ€FDWH EDVHG RQ WKH inspections undertaken during and at the end of construction. ,W LV RQO\ LVVXHG ZKHQ WKH Ă€QDO LQVSHFWLRQV KDYH EHHQ SDVVHG 2QFH \RX DUH Ă€QLVKHG \RXU EXLOGLQJ ZRUN FRQWDFW 7DXUDQJD &LW\ &RXQFLO RQ WR DUUDQJH IRU D Ă€QDO LQVSHFWLRQ &RXQFLO KDV ZRUNLQJ GD\V DIWHU WKH Ă€QDO LQVSHFWLRQ LV FRPSOHWHG WR LVVXH D &RGH RI &RPSOLDQFH &HUWLĂ€FDWH SURYLGHG DOO WKH QHFHVVDU\ SURGXFHU VWDWHPHQWV DQG FHUWLĂ€FDWHV KDYH EHHQ supplied. The CCC application must be emailed in full and in the same order as listed on the Required Items Report – issued with the building consent – or on the site notice. The application can be emailed to: ccc@tauranga.govt.nz You can also present it in person at our customer service centre, or send your completed application via the post. It is important to note that no building work is to commence before the Building Consent is granted.

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Specialists in providing expert building services, from new home builds & renovations to landscaping & deck installation.

+$55,6 3/80%,1* *$6),77,1* /7' ,77

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info@allianceav.co.nz

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OCTO BER 2016

MySpace is a unique free gloss magazine promoting relevant businesses direct to the Bay’s design/build/renovation market, reaching your target audience! We are unique in our aim to ensure the magazine is informative and interesting so it is retained as a key reference tool for months to come. In the Bay of Plenty region alone, an estimated $700 million+ will be spent on new builds and renovations in the coming year! This is huge and fantastic for the entire industry. Design Tips

With this in mind, plus the influx of new residents to Tauranga, this bi-annual magazine is the perfect medium to promote your company. 15,000 copies will be distributed within the region bi-annually at key outlets and by subscription. Based on researched industry averages it will have a huge readership of 90,000 readers, plus the extended shelf life offers you maximum exposure. MySpace also has it’s own dedicated website so it can be shared with even more readers and customers!

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Renovations

Landscapes Interiors

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Feel free to email kathy@sunmedia.co.nz anytime to receive a Media Kit that outlines the many options available to you.

WIN THIS STUNNING FIRE PIT! Simply book your space into the May 2017 edition before 1st December 2016 and be in the draw!

*Winner must pick up from No.1 The Strand Tauranga prior to 20 December.

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