House to Home | August 2018 by Ashburton Guardian

H O U S E

T O

HOME SPRING/SUMMER 2018

2019 trends

Pages 3 - 5

One coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s path to a new home Pages 20 - 23

Get your herbs on the grow Page 30

ALSO INSIDE:

SIX PAGES ON THE BLOCK NZ, INCLUDING AN INTERVIEW WITH JUDGE KRISTINA RAPLEY

Complimentary supplement

HOUSE TO HOME

Contents

SPRING/SUMMER 2018

e learned a couple of new words during the publication of this edition of House to Home – soft minimalism. This is a less strict approach to minimalism and seems more about purging the clutter and surrounding yourself with the things you love and use. This way of living, rather than a trend, is good for the soul. We’ve also been lucky to see inside two beautiful new homes and bring you the stories of their owners. You so often

The Block NZ 7 – 13

hear the old refrain that building is stressful, but both these families report the building process has been easy and organic. The Hawkes family visited their section-turnedconstruction zone almost daily and were thrilled to watch the rise of their home on Whiteoak Grove, keeping a happy photographic record of progress and moving in last month. Hugh and Rachelle McLengahan’s new home on Smithfield Road is a semi-rural oasis, where they watch the local wildlife

Bring on summer living 14 – 15

from under the big verandah that opens out from their kitchen and dining area. The property oozes space and serenity. We are grateful to both families for sharing their private retreats and hope you’ll find their stories inspiring. Both families also praised their builders and subcontractors for allowing them to be so involved in the builds, resulting in genuine connections all-round. The only thing left to say is, bring on summer!

Home a warm pleasure 16 – 19

One couple’s path 20 – 23

House to Home is a complimentary supplement produced by the Ashburton Guardian Editorial Contributors Linda Clarke / Megan Gnad Design Travis Cheesman / Yendis Albert

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HOUSE TO HOME

Trends

Embrace what you love I

nterior designer Sarah Thatcher, from Sarah Bennett Design, says colour trends might provide inspiration but homeowners should always keep the big picture in mind. “I’ve been in business in the Mid Canterbury area for 15 years and in that time I have seen trends come and go, so my best advice for you all is to embrace what you love. “When it comes to Interior designer Sarah final choices you can select Thatcher elements from on-trend fabrics and colourways, but never lose sight the palette is for your home, not your house, and at the end of the day you want it to be enjoyed long after the trends have evolved.” Sarah said her work in the past 12 months had reflected the individual preferences of her clients and had featured a lot of classic timeless, farmhouse and Hamptons style, as well as modern and on-trend work. “Everyone has different styles and tastes and most of the time I am also working with existing elements in their homes.” Here are her thoughts on styles that are coming through for 2019:

Dark palettes Lots of navy and deep greens as well as charcoals. Black has taken a step back and these shades are working more for all the walls and making a cosy warm feel, especially to lounges and dining rooms. Don’t be alarmed by the dark colours as you can decorate the walls with multiple artwork so the walls aren’t as overpowering in your room.

Neutrals These will always be a first port of call for most, shifting away from the stark white and using more soft cream tones with accents of soft colours in furnishings as quite a neutral palette. In this palette terracotta is making a huge comeback … so don’t rip those tiles up just yet!

Florals

Tiles

We haven’t seen the last of the florals yet! They are making a huge comeback with botanicals and bold leaves being the driving force, as well as vintage hand-painted styles. It sounds bold and it is! But used in the correct way they can look fantastic and stylish.

We have seen a lot of subway tiles, but there are so many other styles on the market and people are turning away from them … they will still hold their place in the right style of home though.

Stripes and checks

Colours to keep a look out for are:

These are still a solid favourite for the Mid Canterbury area and let’s be fair they will never date. Colours are changing slightly and more of a tartan style is coming through. These

Deep forest green, tiffany blues, turquoise greens, terracotta and copper, blush, gold and brass and for fabrics, animal motifs and vintage hand-painted looking florals and velvets.

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HOUSE TO HOME

Trends

Interior colours set to be big in 2019 W

arm and inviting, apricot orange takes over from millennial pink as the colour in vogue for 2019. Think muted shades of coral, tan and nude. Orange and its huge range of shades is optimistic and uplifting, so a pop of this colour can be stimulating and a real conversation-starter. The variation apricot orange has been around as a colour for 150 years and was also big in the 1970s. The colours of that era were pretty drab in comparison to those of the psychedelic sixties. You can lay that on the USA, which was recovering from the turmoil of the Vietnam War and the desire for peace and calm was reflected in the dark wood and warm earth tones of that period. In today’s busy world, with a constant bombardment of data – inside and outside the home – you can see that desire for calm is just as big. Redmonds furnishings expert Laura Hill says dusky rose and terracotta tones will also be popular next season, along with calming greens like safe and soft olive and chalky greys. Rich jewel tones like gold, emerald, maroon and deep blue remain popular. Laura says try incorporating these colours into your space with smaller items, such as an armchair, bed linen, lamp or rug. “This way they can easily be changed or moved around when you feel like you are ready for a change. You can also add a feature wallpaper or paint the walls for better impact.” She recommends Resene Florentine Pink, Resene Bitter or Resene Quarter Lemon Grass – choose softer colours for calm spaces such as bedrooms and try adding bolder colours

in places where you spend less time like toilets, hallways and entrances. “If you are just wanting a quick refresh of your space, restyling your sofa with new cushions and a throw is a great way to introduce these colours gently. Try a mix of textures and

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HOUSE TO HOME

Trends

a statement to any room without being too trendy that you’ll want to change it in a year’s time. To complement the black, Laura says, use soft neutrals and warm whites for contrast. You could also try introducing black into your home through feature lighting, seating, décor accessories and furniture such as coffee tables or sideboards. Black is certainly here to stay. Gold and brass metallic accents are also set to be seen a lot in 2019, with finishes covering patinas, black gold and bright golds being paired with raw natural finishes. “Metallics have never looked so good. Try adding furniture with gold detailing, sheer drapes with a metallic fleck or décor items such as a brass tray on your coffee table.” When it comes to design trends, soft minimalism is the way for 2019. This is a less strict approach to minimalism and is a more considered approach to interiors without feeling clinical. “Think of simplified spaces with less clutter that have a light and airy feel. Move away from whites and focus on soft muted colours, warm textures and only decorate with items that you really love – less is more with this trend.” Get creative and add your own touch too, Laura says. “Trends are inspiring and a great place to start when decorating, but curating your own interior look is key to creating an authentic home that you love. Be creative and experiment with colour and texture, adding personal touches and bringing your own style into it is the only way to create a space that you feel happy and relaxed in. “Try starting with an old painting or piece of art that you

love, draw inspiration from the colours and work them into the space through cushions, drapery and accessories – mixing old and new pieces creates an original look that is unique to you.” Sustainability continues to be important. “With homeowners striving to be more mindful in their purchases, I think we’ll see a growing trend towards materials that are kinder to the environment by reusing waste materials, focusing on sustainability and looking at ways of recycling – and upcycling! “There is a growing trend towards sourcing fabrics and homewares that are ethically and sustainably sourced. Many brands support local and overseas artisans and craftspeople and ensure Fair Trade principles are upheld.”

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HOUSE TO HOME

The Block NZ

The Block NZ A

s New Zealand’s favourite DIY show edges closer to the live auctions, the competition continues to heat up. Fans of the hit channel Three show, The Block NZ, once again became hooked last month when we were introduced to the four teams competing in the gruelling 12-week challenge. Situated in the heart of Hobsonville Point, they each set about designing and completing a contemporary three-storey family home. This year’s contestants included, parents Amy and Stu from Gisborne, childhood mates Ben and Tom from Auckland, gym junkies and soul mates Claire and Agni from Hamilton, and best friends Chlo and Em from Palmerston North. Hobsonville Point is Auckland’s hottest new suburb, a thriving, master-planned community which has been designed from scratch with residents’ well-being and sense of belonging at the forefront. Each of the homes feature three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a powder room, three living spaces, laundry room and a garage with room for storage. But, the most unique feature of these houses has proven to be the covered outdoor patio, an extension of the dining room, and a private oasis for entertaining. The teams have been put through their paces with new and daring challenges this year, in addition to familiar favourites. Also unique to this season was the formation of The Block Collective, which meant teams had to work together, as well as against each other, to take out the competition. Joining the show for the first time this year was judge Kristina Rapley, editor of Your Home & Garden magazine, who

joined The Block NZ judge, Jason Bonham. The new judging duo make a formidable team as they examine and scrutinise every detail of the nail-biting weekly room reveals. Series producer Aaron Dolbel, says the fact they are filming season seven, is a testament to how popular the show is with people all around the country. “This is a really exciting series with a really diverse and enthusiastic bunch, brimming with ideas and fizzing with energy. There are lots of surprises in store, and definitely some fireworks to come.” Mark Richardson returns as show host and Shelley Ferguson as challenge host, with the builds overseen by site foreman Peter Wolfkamp, aka ‘Wolfy’ or ‘The Wolfman’. At the end of the 12 weeks, the teams will sell their houses

at auction and take home any profit over the reserve. The team that earns the highest profit will also take home the $100,000 grand prize. “This season is special because it really exemplifies the idea of community; the houses are located in the heart of a modern development that is all about connecting with the community,” says challenge host Shelley Ferguson. “With four nearlyidentical houses, the pressure is really on for this year’s teams to up their design game and stand out from their competitors.” Peter Wolfkamp says no two years are the same on The Block NZ, and this year’s team dynamics have been fantastic. “I have no doubt they will be as entertaining as they are competitive as they battle it out to be number one in the DIY stakes.” The Block NZ screens Sunday to Wednesday nights on Three.

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The Block NZ

How well do you know the teams? AMY AND STU – FROM GISBORNE Hailing from the surf mecca of Gisborne, Amy and Stu both have experience renovating spaces and love being able to bring their creative thoughts to fruition. Stu, a plumber, and partner Amy, a beauty therapist, live with their kids and two cats. Amy’s organisational skills, eclectic taste and flair for design, coupled with Stu’s plumbing and painting prowess, makes them a formidable team. Funny, creative and generous, “with just enough crazy to keep it interesting”, Amy says she can be bit of a hothead – and more than a little stubborn! Stu, who Amy describes as her ‘rock’, says he’s the life of the party and can get along with anyone, and has a penchant for dad jokes. Amy’s proudest moment is becoming a parent – and she reckons being the oldest team will give her and Stu the edge over the others. Both Amy and Stu say their biggest struggle will be being away from their kids.

BEN AND TOM – FROM AUCKLAND Hailing from the big smoke, single lads Ben and Tom have been best mates since birth. Architect graduate Ben – a self-described workaholic – says he’s always up for a good time and dreams of one day owning his own architecture firm. Tom, who describes Ben as his ‘brother from another mother’, is a project manager and all-round handyman. When Tom isn’t busy being a jack of all trades, you can find him working on his motorbike or out on the water, while his DIY partner Ben says while he loves fun banter, he isn’t afraid of confrontation. Tom says Ben has a knack for creating amazing, out-of-the-ordinary designs, while Tom’s commitment to get things done in the most cost and timeefficient manner, provides the perfect foil to Ben’s tendency towards shortcuts. Ben reckons lack of sleep will be their nemesis while on The Block NZ.

The Block NZ

HOUSE TO HOME

CHLO AND EM – FROM PALMERSTON NORTH Best friends since high school, Chlo and Em live the good life in their hometown of Palmy. Chlo, an office co-ordinator and Em, a business owner, say a can-do attitude and good banter will be a key to their success on The Block NZ. The practical half of the BFF duo, Chlo is super-organised, loves to paint and design, and describes her style as “vintage finds mixed with modern touches”. Em is no stranger to DIY – she recently renovated her first home, where she lives with her three flatmates. She says the renovation experience taught her to be creative on a tight budget. Chlo says her habit of laughing at inappropriate times can get her into trouble, and is known to drink multiple cups of coffee every day. Chlo says she’ll struggle being away from her partner, Angus.

CLAIRE AND AGNI – FROM HAMILTON A shared love of working out brought soul mates Claire and Agni together. Claire, a personal trainer, met her partner Agni at the Hamilton gym he co-owns and manages. They now own their own home in Hamilton, which they have renovated and rent out, while Agni project managed the entire design, layout and fit-out of his gym. Agni says his “fiery and design-savvy” soulmate Claire will fight for what she wants, while Agni is more of the peacemaker. Agni, who immigrated from India to Hamilton with his family age seven, is a keen golfer and cricketer. He says he’s “full of good banter” and not afraid to push the boundaries. Claire, (Tainui and Ngapuhi) spends her spare time doing freedom dance and yoga, and is also a big fan of op-shopping. Claire and Agni say they’re used to early morning starts, and being enthusiastic towards others, is second nature.

HOUSE TO HOME

The Block NZ

The hosts SHELLEY FERGUSON – CHALLENGE HOST As a previous judge on The Block NZ, Shelley Ferguson has a passion for décor, design, real estate and renovating. The editorial director of home and fashion brands at Bauer Media, says she is excited to return for her fourth season as challenge host. “The challenges, competition and crazy antics of The Block are back – and I can’t wait to see how this year is going to play out,” she says. “We are really lucky to have such a unique site for 2018; Hobsonville Point is a development that’s all about being connected with family and friends within a beautiful natural environment.” Shelley first started at Your Home and Garden magazine as an editorial assistant when she was 18 years old. After working on a variety of magazines, in both London and Auckland, she’s back at Your Home and Garden, this time as the editorial director. Shelley teamed up with The Block NZ foreman Peter Wolfkamp, to host Three’s 2017 property show, Slice of Paradise; following the journey of first home buyers around New Zealand.

MARK RICHARDSON – HOST The AM Show presenter and cricket legend Mark Richardson is back hosting The Block NZ for a seventh season. He says this year’s location is a fascinating insight into where the New Zealand housing market is heading. “Community living is common in many countries overseas, so it will be interesting to see how New Zealanders embrace it,” he said. “The similarities of each house mean this year’s teams are under more pressure than ever to put their unique design stamp on their home.” Mark played 15 years of first-class cricket and five years of test cricket, including 38 test matches for the Black Caps until his 2004 retirement. A cricket commentator and presenter on multi-platform breakfast programme The AM Show, Mark has also been a regular weekly guest on The Project on Three. Mark is also a published author. His 2006 book, Mark Richardson: Thinking Negatively, was written with sports psychologist Alex McKenzie, taking sports psychology to a wider audience.

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HOUSE TO HOME

The Block NZ

Q&A with judge Kristina Rapley Kristina Rapley was already a big fan of The Block NZ when she joined the team as a judge for the first time this season. When it comes to interior design, homeware, and New Zealand’s DIY scene, the Your Home and Garden magazine editor, was the perfect candidate for the job. Kristina has spent more than a decade working in the magazine industry, landing her first editorship at Creme magazine, when she was just 22.

Since then, she has worked on Good Health Choices and Woman’s Day and more recently edited Taste, making her Bauer Media’s youngest editor at age 29. Now in her early 30s, Kristina and her husband Ashton are “property obsessed” and are always on the lookout for run-down gems to renovate. They currently live in one of these properties with their dog Blue and cat Bell Belles. Kristina chatted with House To Home about what’s impressed her this season, gives us some behindthe-scenes details, and lets us in on her top design tips for spring.

HOUSE TO HOME

The Block NZ

Congratulations on joining The Block NZ team this year! What has the whole experience been like and what have been some of the challenges? Thank you! It’s been a lot of fun. Jason (Bonham) is hilarious and we have so much fun together on site. I was really nervous turning up on day one, having no idea what to expect, but he put me at ease straight away. I definitely find the actual scoring really challenging. I make an effort not to score based on my own personal taste because obviously that’s so different for everyone. For me, it’s all about the level of finishing and all those little extra styling touches that make a room feel complete and cohesive. Had you been a big fan of The Block NZ in the past and judged past shows from your living room sofa? Oh, absolutely. I’ve watched every season religiously, so it’s really great to have a behind-the-scenes look this year. How different it is when it’s real, and contestants are relying on you to judge and provide feedback? Different ball game completely! Jason and I have to be really careful about the feedback we’re giving, because it impacts their future decision-making and will inevitably impact on the final result, so I take it very seriously. What surprised you the most this season about some of the skills, designs, and styles that the teams incorporated? So, obviously Amy & Stu have been killing it in the room reveal scoring, and I’m just so impressed with their styling. I know it’s not everybody’s cup of tea -–when you compare it to Ben & Tom’s style for example, it’s chalk and cheese. But, Amy & Stu have a very clear design direction and they have executed their rooms beautifully, so far. It’s really wonderful to see such bold colour and styling choices, they’re definitely not playing it safe.

Do you often get to see what they’re working on right up until the reveal, or do they keep it a secret from the judges? We don’t see anything before room reveal, not even a sneak peek, so we have no idea what to expect. When you see us walking into a room on telly, that’s the first time we’ve seen it.

very close eye on the market and has an eye for finding homes with potential. He’s super handy, too, and is great on the tools, so together we make a great team. Overcapitalising is probably the biggest pitfall people can fall into. It’s different if you’re renovating a home that you’re planning on living in for a really long time and you’re not concerned about resale, but if you are, you need to do your research and make sure that if you were to sell, you’d make your money back and ideally plus some.

What was it like working with the teams and the crew? What was the overall atmosphere? It must get pretty tense at times, but also seems a lot of fun. Jason and I are only on site on Saturdays and only really see the teams as they’re leaving site for us to go in and judge. We’re not allowed to talk to them, even though I desperately want to! I’m really looking forward to meeting them all properly when the show is finished, hopefully they’ll all want to talk to me, too! The crew are amazing and so hard-working and there’s a great vibe on site – but it’s definitely getting more tense and more grubby as the weeks roll on.

What are some of the top style tips you could let us in on for spring? Spring is a really exciting time when it comes to the home. A decent spring clean is usually needed after the months of dreariness and it’s nice to pack away the heavy blankets, winter coats and muddy boots and freshen everything up with some new cushions and bedding. A vase full of fresh spring flowers always lifts the mood too, just little things like that.

As editor of Your Home and Garden magazine, are you noticing shows like The Block NZ are encouraging more people to ‘have-a-go’ at property DIY? Is it becoming less daunting for people, and, with property prices making getting on the ladder so tough, is renovation still a popular option for young people starting out? Absolutely. Buying property is a huge investment and Kiwis are a real house-proud bunch, so getting stuck in and doing it yourself is the only option in a lot of cases. Making a house a home and putting your own stamp on it is high up on the priority list for most, and shows like The Block NZ are encouraging people to be their own stylist or interior designer. I think it’s amazing.

What styles and designs are you loving right now? And, what are your predications for next season? I’m definitely loving the more is more approach when it comes to design at the moment. Maximalism is having a major moment – think bold colour, clashing patterns and loads of personality and individual style. Where do you source a lot of your inspiration from? Do you travel a lot, or use social media sites? I get so much inspiration from our styling and design team at Your Home and Garden, they’re all so clever. We feature real Kiwi homes in every issue so I’m constantly inspired by our lovely homeowners, too – there are some seriously talented people in our wee corner of the world and some seriously beautiful homes.

You’ve renovated property yourself, what are the top pitfalls people need to watch out for and be aware of? My husband and I are property obsessed. Ashton keeps a

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Summer recipes

Bring on summer living Nothing says summer like Pimm’s or a fruity punch. These are great brews for when friends are over and the men are at the barbecue. Resist the urge to go freestyle when you pour the alcohol though!

Summer punch

Pimm’s O’Clock

Pimm’s popsicles

Summer punch, with gin

This punch is perfect for a summer gathering and can be served in the crystal punchbowl your grandmother gave you or in a big hollowed out watermelon! Bring it out at your next BBQ and sit back with your feet up as your guests help themselves.

Pimm’s and a cold pale lager are both great on a hot summer’s day, so why not bring the two together! This refreshing combo is laced together with the rounded citrus notes of fresh orange, the perfect drink to serve up for friends.

These are spectacular! Pimm’s popsicles are your new best friend in time for summer. Refreshing, familiar and fun they are the perfect adult summer treat.

This quick recipe with the crisp apple flavour is wonderfully paired with your favourite Gerwurts.

Ingredients:

• • • • • • •

• • • •

• • • • •

150ml vodka 75ml Triple Sec 1 watermelon Lemonade Lemon Fresh Mint Ice

Instructions: Remove the top of the watermelon, juice contents. Pour the vodka and triple sec back into the watermelon with lemon then top up with lemonade, add ice and serve with mint garnish.

30mls Pimm’s 60mls fresh orange juice 120mls lager Fresh wheel of orange

Instructions: Measure and pour Pimm’s and orange juice into a glass, fill it with ice then top off with the lager. Garnish with a wheel of fresh orange for a fancy feel.

Ingredients:

Ingredients: • • • • • • • •

300mls Pimm’s 900mls lemonade Half a punnet of strawberries Half a cucumber Mint leaves

Instructions: Put all ingredients into a blender and whizz until mixed well, then pour into ice-block moulds and put in the freezer.

½ a bottle of gin 1 bottle of Gewurztraminer 2 litres of cloudy apple juice 1 bunch of fresh green grapes 1 bunch of fresh red grapes Mint leaves 2 limes cut into wheels 2 lemons cut into wheels

Instructions: Pour the gin, wine and cloudy apple juice into a large punch bowl, then add the chopped up fruit.

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Summer recipes

Beef Skewers with Asian Slaw

Barbecued steaks with Baba Ghanoush and Tomato Salad • • •

These are great for entertaining, use beef rump threaded with kaffir lime, mint and coriander leaves for a perfectly fresh taste. Serve with crunchy Asian slaw. Ingredients: • • • • • •

500g Quality Mark beef rump 6 metal or wooden skewers 12 kaffir lime leaves 1/4C olive oil 1 small handful mint leaves, chopped, plus a few extra to garnish 1 small handful coriander leaves, chopped, plus a few extra to garnish

Asian slaw • 1/4 green cabbage, very finely sliced • 2 carrots, grated • 4 spring onions, trimmed and very finely sliced • 3 handfuls mung bean sprouts • 2T sesame seeds, toasted • 1t black sesame seeds or nigella seeds, optional • 2T light soy sauce • 1T lime juice

Method: Baba ghanoush Preheat barbecue grill. Roast eggplant over barbecue grill or open flame, turning regularly, until it starts to collapse and the skin is quite black, about 15 minutes. Set aside to cool. Remove every bit of skin and discard, then very quickly rinse eggplant under cold water. Press flesh with the back of a spoon or potato masher to remove excess liquid, or place in a colander to drain. Chop flesh and place in a bowl with garlic, parsley, tahini and cumin and stir to combine. Stir in lemon juice and oil.

2t soft brown sugar 2t sesame oil 1t wasabi paste

Method: Beef Soak wooden skewers in cold water for at least 20 minutes to help prevent burning during barbecuing. Preheat a barbecue until hot. Cut the beef into about 2.5cm pieces. Thread three pieces of beef onto the soaked skewers with the lime leaves. Mix together the oil and fresh herbs and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Brush liberally over the beef skewers. Place on the hot plate and cook for five minutes until the beef is cooked to medium-rare. Asian slaw Place the cabbage, carrots, spring onions, mung bean sprouts and sesame seeds in a large bowl. Combine the soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, sesame oil and wasabi in a small screwtop jar and shake well. Drizzle over enough dressing to moisten the salad and toss well. Sprinkle over the black sesame or nigella seeds, if using. To serve: Place the Asian slaw on a large serving platter and top with the beef skewers. Scatter over the coriander and mint leaves.

The prefect recipe for a barbecue with friends and family. Simply cook the steaks, prep all the elements and allow everyone to assemble it themselves. Ingredients: 4 x Quality Mark scotch fillet steaks

Beef Heat a barbecue until hot. Rub beef steaks with a little oil, season and place on the barbecue with a space between each. Barbecue for three minutes on each side for medium-rare steaks. Remove steaks to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil and leave to rest for five minutes. Season as required.

Baba ghanoush • 1 medium eggplant • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 2T parsley, finely chopped • 2T tahini • Pinch ground cumin • Juice of ½ lemon • 2T oil To serve: • 200g punnet cherry tomatoes, halved • 1C mint leaves, roughly chopped • 1T white wine vinegar • 3T oil • 4 pita bread, grilled on the barbecue until hot • 1 head baby cos lettuce, leaves separated • Store-bought basil pesto

To serve: In a bowl, combine tomatoes and mint. Drizzle over vinegar and oil and season to taste. Plate steaks with pita bread, baba ghanoush, cos lettuce leaves and tomato salad. Top with a little basil pesto.

Recipes – Beef + Lamb New Zealand

Making the building process easy and stress free We build in Ashburton, Timaru and Mackenzie Country

121c Archibald Street, Tinwald, Ashburton PHONE: 03 308 4606 EMAIL: office@jkfhomes.co.nz

Living/dining 8850 x 5830, Kitchen 3700 x 3675, Family room 3560 x 5330, Master Bedroom 3280 x 3480, Ensuite 1800 x 2080, Bedroom 2 2680 x 2700, Bathroom 2690 x 255 , Bedroom 3090 x 2700, Garage 5900 x 5980

House Area 192m2 3 Bedroom, 2 Living, Bathroom and Ensuite, 2 Car Garage

Kitchen 3745 x 2860, Living 7220 x 4160, Dining 3370 x 2860, Bedroom 1 3600 x 3430, Ensuite 1570 x 2400, Bedroom 2 3980 x 2790, Bathroom 2180 x 3480, Bedroom 3 3080 x 2790

House Area 120m2

3 bedroom, 1 living room, 1 bathroom and ensuite

Large open-plan living, family room and kitchen form the big heart of this smartly designed three bedroomed home.

Luxury lifestyle. This home has space galore with large open-plan living and kitchen areas, 3 bedrooms and separate laundry.

121c Archibald Street, Tinwald, Ashburton PHONE: 03 308 4606 EMAIL: office@jkfhomes.co.nz

Kitchen 3745 x 2860, Living 7220 x 4160, Dining 3370 x 2860, Bedroom 1 3600 x 3430, Ensuite 1570 x 2400, Bedroom 2 3980 x 2790, Bathroom 2180 x 3480, Bedroom 3 3080 x 2790 Dining 4210 x 3730, Living 7300 x 4800, Kitchen 3110 x 2620, Bedroom 1 3840 x 3720, Walk in Robe 1965 x 2515, Ensuite 1965 x 2045, Bedroom 2 2980 x 3140, Bathroom 2380 x 3040, WC 1080 x 1980, Bedroom 3 2825 x 3380, Bedroom 4 2980 x 2890, Office 2290 x 2910, Garage 6780 x 7000

House Area 214m2 4 bedroom, 1 living area, 1 Bathroom and ensuite, office, 2 car garage

Wide open living sweeps outdoors in this spacious home. Four bedrooms including large master suite and study.

121c Archibald Street, Tinwald, Ashburton PHONE: 03 308 4606 EMAIL: office@jkfhomes.co.nz

House Area 120m2

3 bedroom, 1 living room, 1 bathroom and ensuite Luxury lifestyle. This home has space galore with large open-plan living and kitchen areas, 3 bedrooms and separate laundry.

Living 5500 x 5230, Dining 5230 x 4400, Family 3800 x 4910, Study 2215 x 1510, Kitchen 4480 x 3200, Bedroom 1 4205 x 4425, WIR 2200 x 2285, Ensuite 1915 x 2285, Bedroom 2 3400 x 3320, WC 1100 x 1800, Bathroom 2705 x 2785, Bedroom 3 3395 x 3320, Bedroom 4 3190 x 2260, Laundry 2125 x 3320, Garage 9500 x 6140

House Area 282m2

4 bedroom, 2 living areas, 1 bathroom and ensuite, study, separate laundry, 3 car garage

Enjoy the good life in this elegant, light spacious light-filled home. Stunning indoor outdoors flow. Wide sweeping living/dining and family zones blend together, or seamlessly separate. Add a large master suite, large office and triple car garaging, and this is a dream home come true.

121c Archibald Street, Tinwald, Ashburton PHONE: 03 308 4606 EMAIL: office@jkfhomes.co.nz

Dining/Family 5890 x 6980, Kitchen 3220 x 4830, Living 5200 x 4980, Master Bedroom 3890 x 3580, Ensuite 2000 x 1780, Walk in Robe 1780 x 1780, Bedroom 2 3890 x 3180, Study/Bedroom 2980 x 2980, Toilet 3290 x 990, Bathroom 2280 x 2870, Bedroom 4 3980 x 4360, Living/Bedroom 3580 x 4980, Bathroom 1810 x 3175, Garage 6805 x 6380

House area 265m2 Open plan with 2 living areas, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and ensuite, study, 2 car garage

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Phone: 03 308 4606 // Email: office@jkfhomes.co.nz // 121a Archibald Street, Tinwald

Spacious living forms the heart of this generously proportioned home. Featuring four bedrooms including master suite and separate study.

HOUSE TO HOME

sinesssouth

gold Building

00 + GST

ATTN: Craig Ingold

COLOUR

Full

AD MADE

FAX (03) 98

PO Box 37346, Christchurch 8245 | 112 Wrights Art Dept: 03 983 5577 | Email: art@waterfo

RE: Ingold Building Feature

21-04-17

AD CORRECTED

IS Sam

SLE SGN:

FAX (03) 983 5550

00-00-16

sinesssouth dvert changes or corrections please contact:

ARTIST

PO Box 37346, Christchurch 8245 | 112 Wrights Rd, Addington Art Dept: 03 983 5577 | Email: art@waterfordpress.co.nz

gold Building

ATTN: Craig Ingold

GENT

00 + GST

COLOUR

Full

AD MADE

Alissa Jones 03

RE: Ingold Building Feature

21-04-17

AD CORRECTED

00-00-16

ARTIST

ATE dvertNEARING changes or corrections please contact:

ISSUE: BS2_17

Sam

SLE SGN:

..............

Alissa Jones 03 983 5560

New home a warm pleasure GENT ......................... W

alking barefoot through their new home is a simple ATE NEARING

pleasure for one Ashburton family. Rachelle, husband Hugh and their teenage daughter live on semi-rural Smithfield Road, in a gorgeous north-facing home built to capture the sun for thermal heat. But they took no chances on having warm feet and opted for underfloor heating. They all love getting up in the morning and walking barefoot through their new home because the warmth underfoot is heaven. They certainly have no regrets splashing out on the underfloor system, but to stay within budget they did change the exterior cladding options, and swapped tiled bathrooms for regular showers. “This has not been a disappointment at all. We love the block cladding, the bathrooms look really great and more importantly to us, the underfloor heating is a dream. The warmth of our home is amazing,” Rachelle said. The family moved from Christchurch to an old villa on 2.5 acres on Smithfield Road in 2011. They hatched plans for a new

..........................

“For me it was amazing to see all parts of the build from home on the section while staying with friends at Lake Hawea underground to the roof. We take for granted the water that in June 2016 and just 12 months later they had moved in. comes out of the tap or the light that comes on with the They love living on Smithfield Road, with its quiet semiBoxme 37346, 8245 112 Wrights Rd, Ad flick of a switch.PO It gave a realChristchurch appreciation for the |work rural surroundings, just moments from town. Art Dept: 03 983 5577 | Email: art@waterfordpre tradespeople do.” Rachelle said they had mulled over the pros and cons of Rachelle said they worked with residential architectural building, and after crunching the numbers set out to create ATTN: Craig Ingold RE: Ingold ISSUE designer CraigBuilding Fitchett toFeature bring all their layout ideas together. theirCOMPANY: dream family Ingold home. ItBuilding needed to accommodate room for AD The result is a functional family home offering communal two teenage sons when they visitedCOLOUR Ashburton, plentyAD of sheds SLE PRICE Sam $445.00 + GST Full 21-04-17 CORRECTED 00-00-16 ARTIST .... MADE living and space for privacy. They love the flow of the house SGN: for Hugh and work space for Rachelle to run her Integrative and the sunshine it captures, with the verandah high enough to Health Coach and Skin Health Therapist business. let inplease the low winter sun yet block out hot summer rays. Hugh Rachelle subdivided their property sold the Forand any advert changes or and corrections contact: Alissa Jones 03 983 “We are both busy with work and decided that we would villa with one acre but were lucky to be able to rent it back from prefer minimal gardens with some specimen trees and a the new owners and live in the villa while the build took place, sprawling lawn, Richard Morris did a fabulous job with the only a stone’s throw away. lawn. The space around the property is so peaceful we did not The couple chose Craig Ingold and his Ingold Building Ltd PRINT DATE NEARING want to block this with solid fences and hedges. Paradise ducks, team for the job. “They were amazing to work with every step of the build, as pukekos, a pair of herons, magpies and doves inhabitat the area were his team of builders and sub-contractors. Living next door which includes surrounding paddocks. ............................................. > meant we were able to walk over to view the progress.

businesssouth

FAX (03) 983 5

URGENT

Want to talk? Call Craig Ingold 027 268 2754 craig@ingoldbuilding.co.nz www.ingoldbuilding.co.nz Providing open communication directly from builder to client and honest work with high quality building services

HOUSE TO HOME

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“We enjoy watching the comings and goings of this wild life, especially when the pukekos get feisty chasing the dog while he retrieves his ball!” They both enjoy growing their own vegetables so created an area with raised vegetable gardens for this. “There were no real challenges throughout the build - being organised and making choices before they were required by the builder and trades kept things fairly easy. If we had to list a challenge, keeping within budget was interesting at times.” Rachelle said they had enjoyed the entire process from subdivision to building. “Everyone was fabulous to work with. We enjoyed Craig Ingold’s industry knowledge and honesty. If he thought our idea was ‘off ’, he would say, and embraced other ideas that we had.” The finished home and gardens offers comfortable, relaxed living: “We love living at this property.”

Has their new home changed the way they live? Compared to their previous property, there is less to do in the garden and little maintenance on the house enabling them to relax a little more. Not surprisingly, they feel no need to escape at weekends. “We love to spend time at home, a lot of time is spent mucking around outside, in the lounge and around the kitchen island. I love to cook, whether it is for us, family or friends, the kitchen is really functional to work in and the double oven is great,” Rachelle said.

“Hugh finds it a really peaceful place to come home to, to relax and unwind. The house has a nice ambient warmth or coolness depending on the season which makes it really comfortable to live in.” Rachelle’s work space is a treat and she feels grateful every day for the space. “The salon is lovely and offers a nice peaceful place for clients to come to take a break from life, even if it is for just 15 minutes.” But that is Smithfield Road, you drive along the road and leave town behind.

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About the house: The natural block home is 290 square metres on a 1.5 acre back section about 1.5km along Smithfield Road from the Seafield Road turnoff. The underfloor heating is a special feature and the only heating source. A heat pump unit heats fluid in pipes under the polished concrete floor; nine separate areas have their own control panels, all of which can be controlled by a cellphone app. The temperature is regulated year-round at 18 degrees Celsius. The house has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and open plan living with kitchen, dining and lounge; a second lounge has become the family’s media room. There is an impressive 3 metre stud ceiling throughout the entrance, hall, kitchen, dining and media room.

The lounge has a bulkhead ceiling adding style and space to the room. The kitchen and dining area opens onto a large outdoor entertainment area flowing onto the sprawling lawn. The outdoor area is covered by a veranda, which is an extension of the house roof. The colour scheme throughout, guided by Jo Skilling of Colourplus, is Dulux Manorbourn in different strengths used on the high stud walls to create special effects. The concrete floor was laid by Precision Concrete Placing and cut and polished by Perfect Polish. The polished concrete floor is hard-wearing, perfect for pets and easy to clean with broom, vacuum or steam cleaner. LED downlights are combined with statement lamps. Internet access is via a fibre optic cable that runs past their gate.

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For over 20 years Craig Fitchett has been designing functional beautiful homes – find out what Craig Fitchett Design can do for you. Craig Fitchett Design is proud to be associated with Rachelle & Hugh’s home.

57b Kimberley Street, Casebrook, CH-CH | P.(03) 343 0833, M. 021 216 1438 email: craig@craigfitchettdesign.co.nz | www.craigfitchettdesign.co.nz

HOUSE TO HOME

One coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s path to home ownership

We love our homes, you will too. Stonewood Homes Mid Canterbury 326 East Street, Ashburton | 03 928 8027 stonewood.co.nz

0800 86 00 00

HOUSE TO HOME

inter sun is streaming through the windows of Debbie and Clint Hawkes’ new home on Whiteoak Grove, reflecting off crisp and modern black, white and metallic surfaces. The family moved in just a month ago and Debbie says she’s still pinching herself to make sure it’s all real. Like many hard-working couples, they never believed it would be possible to build their own home. But they did their homework, found a mortgage broker and a building company they could connect with and the rest is recent history. Debbie said they had been looking to trade up from their 1970s home in Leeston Street last year and put offers on two houses before family members on the same path recommended building. “We didn’t think we would ever be able to build, but it is doable,” she said. Having committed to building, they sold their home and spent 10 months living in tiny cabins on the drive-way of a home belonging to close friends Mike and Jenny Kelleher. With Debbie, who operates her own music school MelodyMakers Academy of Music, and Clint, a youth pastor at the Ashburton Baptist Church, in one 3m x 2.4m cabin and their three teens in the other, they lived out of suitcases and became loyal customers of the food delivery service Bargain Box. Despite the close quarters, they look back with fond memories of this special communal living adventure. “It became home and we realised we did not miss a lot of our stuff,” Debbie said. The pair searched for sections and found Whiteoak Grove

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ticked all the boxes, in terms of size, location and family neighbourhood, as well as providing a stunning view of the Southern Alps. While Tinwald may have its share of traffic problems with access to busy State Highway One, the Hawkes experience none of that living west of the railway lines. “We felt it was good value for our money.” Clint said the couple did a fair amount of research into building companies and chose Stonewood Homes, won over by the efficient and enthusiastic Viv Cameron, who held their hand through the building process. The family have compiled their own building scrapbook, with photos ranging from the empty section to move-in day. They visited the site almost daily and said the sub-contractors were only too happy to welcome them onto the construction zone and talk about what was going on. Stonewood’s building app also allowed them to keep abreast of the project. It has been a learning curve but an enjoyable one. “They warned us that the concrete pad would look small when it was laid, then it would look large when it was framed up and then shrink again as it was filled in,” Clint said. “And it did all of those things.” Debbie said the decisions required had not been stressful and after choosing a plan, and preliminary fixtures and fittings, it was plain sailing. “All the people we have had to work with have been very easy. The sub-contractors were local and a lot of them were family operators and we liked that. They all went above and beyond for us.” >

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HOUSE TO HOME

Having shed many of their possessions, the Hawkes decided to fill their new home with modern furniture. Debbie became a TradeMe ninja, hunting down the best deals. Their beautiful glass table and chairs were bought from a Cashmere couple downsizing and other new items have been carefully selected after much internet browsing. Clint has become a pro-assembler, turning flatpack kits into their new bedroom and lounge furniture. Their online retailer of choice has been Mocka, with its reasonable prices and free delivery. Even the kids have been roped in to help, with oldest son Cairo constructing the furniture for his own room. One of their first meals in the new home was a traditional family roast, cooked in their new Bosch oven … a treat after having no kitchen of their own for some time. Evie the white Japanese Spitz and a regal ginger-striped feline known as Paws have also given the new home their seal of approval. Evie has already figured out she has the best view of the street from the long glass window in the bedroom being used as an office by the front door. Paws prefers to lounge on the bed in Debbie and Clint’s bedroom, which is awash with sun in the afternoon. It’s the family feel to this new home that the Hawkes already treasure. They love the outdoor entertaining area as much as the interior, and look forward hosting friends and family, and others who might benefit from such a welcoming space. “We want to use this house to bless others,” Debbie said. “We feel so humbled.”

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HOUSE TO HOME

About the house The white brick house with a black coloursteel roof has a floor area of 182 square metres, and is set on an 800 square metre section, in a cul-de-sac at the end of Whiteoak Grove. It is part of the Oaklea subdivision, in Tinwald west, and the area is a mix of retirees, working couples and families. The home has four bedrooms, the master with ensuite, a media room, kitchen, lounge and dining room, bathroom and attached two-car garage. The interior is painted through in Resene’s Surrender, a calming grey that easily goes with contrasts of black and white throughout the house. The carpet is a forgiving dove grey, ideal if you have children and pets and don’t want to spend every day with the vacuum cleaner out. Downlights provide the main light, along with statement

floor lamps and hanging decorative lights. One heat pump heats the whole house and the Hawkes keep track of power use by way of an app on their phones. With modern insulation, double-glazing and a design to make the most of the sun’s thermal rays, they say their power bills are already way down on the dark, 1970s house they lived in previously. For internet access, they are connected to the fibre optic cable that runs past their door; this was an essential part of the build. Outside is still a work in progress. A basketball hoop already adorns a large concrete area at the rear of the house and once day soon, grass will grow on a large backyard that has already been levelled. Neither are big gardeners, but they have plans for productive plants, including a feijoa hedge and a grape vine, and planter boxes.

Looking to efficiently heat or air condition your home? Davidson Refrigeration and Electrical Ltd can install Mitsubishi heat pumps for year round comfort. Congratulations Clint and Debbie on your new home

Ashburton Concrete Professionals specialise in civil engineering, floors, suspended slabs, dairy sheds, industrial and residential placing, decorative and coloured concrete, form work, steel fabrications and more. When you contact ACP for your concrete construction requirements, you’re assured of quality work, using proven construction methods and professional, friendly service from a dedicated team.

51 Glassworks Road, Ashburton Phone 03 308 0067 or 027 488 0067 Email dreltd@xtra.co.nz

Damien White: 027 872 5654 office@ashburtonconcrete.co.nz www.ashburtonconcrete.co.nz

A fantastic subdivision located in Tinwald The Ray White Real Estate family in conjunction with the Tarbotton family are proud to offer you the opportunity to live in Cawton Grove. The Tarbotton family are very proud of their history and are proud of the subdivision they have created.

Grove is the place for you.

Cawton Grove is a prestigious residential subdivision located on Tarbottons Road, on the west side of Tinwald, just a short drive from the town centre.

Living in Cawton Grove will provide you and your family with a sense of freedom away from the rush of town living. Share in community activities and get to know your neighbours, and enjoy the wide range of nearby recreational activities. Enjoy the best of life at Cawton Grove.

Breathe in the fresh country air and take advantage of the superb golf course, school, lake and extensive recreational reserves, pool and shopping centre – all in your neighbourhood. If you are looking for a new home for your family in a location focused on community values, quality open spaces and outstanding facilities, Cawton

The Tarbotton family are generously offering to the first five buyers a sum of $3000 to secure services from Tarbotton Contracting that could be used for landscaping, driveway forming, draining laying etc.

Start building your dream home. Titles now available. CAWTON GROVE

Subdivision Stage 1

“

We enjoy living in Cawton Grove very much as the subdivision has a rural feel to it and we have great views of the mountains. We also found that the sections available at Cawton Grove were great value for money. ~ Matt and Leanne Wills

Kelburn Place

Cawton Grove

Stage 2

Ray White Ashburton Tarbottons Road T 03 307 8317 96 Tancred St, PO Box 443, Ashburton 7700, New Zealand rwashburton.co.nz Mid Canterbury Real Estate Limited Licensed REAA (2008)

“

We found Cawton Grove is a very nice area to live in. It is close to town but far enough away to make it feel rural. It was also a good price for the size of the section. Cawton Grove met our needs and we are happy to have bought and built there. ~ Matt Winter

Jarrod Ross

Licensee Salesperson 027 259 4644 | 03 307 8317 jarrod.ross@raywhite.com

HOUSE TO HOME

Catering to your caffeine fix Just how deep is your passion for coffee? Whether you’re a fan of the instant, the exotic made by the barista at your favourite café and everything in between, there’s no denying that coffee makes you feel good.

he experts might disagree on the benefits of coffee (it’s good for you/it’s not good for you) but Kiwis have embraced the coffee culture in our own way … usually with plenty of the milk that we produce in our own backyard. If you’re thinking about buying a coffee machine for home, it pays to do your homework before you hit the store, where you’ll be confronted with an overwhelming range of machines. You’ll find the reasonably-priced and easy-to-use nespresso capsule machines for around $299 as well as an assortment of manual and automatic machines where you get to be your own barista, grinding beans and tamping like a pro. Maybe. The high end, fully automatic machines, like the DeLonghi Prima Donna come at around the cost of a small, well-used car but it is the bomb with a big variety of coffee and milk recipes, easy programming and six user profiles for individually tailored drinks. Plus it has a new thermal carafe with double wall to keep milk hotter for longer. However, the majority of people who come into Smith and Church’s Ashburton store looking for a coffee machine leave with a capsule machine – these machines use hermetically sealed pods of coffee. You drop a capsule in the top, pull a lever and push a switch. The machine pierces the capsule and forces hot water through to make an espresso … in about 20 seconds. They’re convenient to use and easy to clean, and really

popular, says sales expert Jacky Thomson. “Most people come and buy a machine and they get a selection of coffee pods to help them work out which flavour they like. You get a book with details about how it all works and how to order more pods. Most people join a coffee club.” The cost per pod works out around $1.10 but the sealed capsules can keep the coffee fresh for up to nine months. A downside of these convenient pods of ground coffee is

the packaging, which are commonly thrown in the rubbish bin and end up in landfill. Increasingly though, manufacturers are pointing out ways these capsules can be collected and recycled appropriately. Some pods can be bought at the supermarket and others easily online with quick delivery. At least one coffee club asks customers to return their pods in a supplied courier bag for special recycling. Whichever machine you decide on, love it by looking after it with a regular descaling. Meantime, go in search of your favourite flavour fix!

EST.1962.

Perfection made easy

Town or country For friendly, professional and reliable service phone Richard 027 626 0784 mccreapaintersashburton@gmail.com

New Homes | Renovations | Farm Buildings & Sheds Phone Stu 027 696 8532 Email stubellconstruction@gmail.com www.facebook.com/stubellconstruction

HOUSE TO HOME

Taking your pool out of winter mode If that mild winter was anything to go by, we’ll be thinking about swimming soon. A backyard pool is one proven way to have lots of visitors over summer and watersports are not usually compatible with digital screens, so it’s a great way to make sure your kids are off their devices. The weather experts are predicting temperatures to be a bit above average for the next three months so get ready to take your pool out of winter mode. Here’s a handy check list of things to do:

Test your pool water There are several different kinds of pool test kits you can use to test the level of chemicals in your pool. Always test your pool chemical levels after backwashing the filter. Follow the instructions on the kits to conduct the tests and add the recommended amount of acid or chlorine. A good idea is to get your water professionally tested. Take a water sample to a swimming pool store, where they’ll likely be able to test it while you wait and recommend any product that could help.

Test your salt level

Add chemicals to the pool The amount of chemicals you need to add to your pool will depend on how clean it is and how regular you have been with maintenance. If the pool isn’t very clear, it might need a dose of chlorine. After that, it might also need algaecide and stabiliser.

Clean the pool After adding the chemicals, use your scoop to remove all the leaves you can. Use a brush to scrub the sides and the bottom of the pool. Regular brushing prevents algae, removes dirt and keeps the pool surface smooth. Have the pump running when you brush, so that the debris will be pulled into the filter, and removed from the water. As a final step, vacuum the pool to remove any remaining leaves and debris.

Check the pool pump Your pool pump, sand filter and salt water chlorinator need to be working well, so the rest of your pool can run properly. Check the pump is in good working order and water is flowing through the filter. Check the pressure on the sand filter. If it’s high and the water flow coming out of the pool jets is low, it might need backwashing. If the salt chlorinator is covered in white-scale, clean it in a hydrochloric acid mix.

Empty out your skimmer box Your skimmer box is designed to collect floating debris as well as connect to your pool hose. Make sure you empty it out regularly so the water flows freely through to the filter.

Standard pool test kits won’t tell you how much salt is in your pool. After winter and heavy rain, you want to make sure it’s at the right level before you go swimming. Use the salt test strip kit to check your salt levels. Follow the instructions on the kit and if needed, add as many bags of salt recommended for your size of pool.

Be patient The whole process of getting your pool ready for summer can take a couple of weeks. The work and the wait will be worth it.

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HOUSE TO HOME

Advertorial

Curtains and Blinds C

hoosing new window furnishings can be a confusing exercise with many options available. To help you out here is a quick run-down on some of the options. Curtains are still a very popular option, and still very practical for our cold Mid Canterbury winters. Well-made curtains with linings will ensure that the heat is kept in your home rather than escaping out the windows. There are a multitude of fabrics from which to choose, from lovely soft sheers to beautiful heavy linens, while also having fabrics with every budget in mind. Headings are no longer standard now either. These can be used to create a completely different look for a curtain. Roman blinds now are often used to open spaces up. They are made with curtain fabric which enables consistency in a room. These blinds are now able to be pulled up and down with a chain (much like a roller blind) which makes it a lot easier to control and keeps them a lot neater. Blinds have had a complete transformation over the past few years. In past years the everyday blind was a venetian with a standard width blade, but now blinds come in all shapes and styles to suit every budget. Venetians are still very popular but now come in varying blade widths and many different colours as well as several timber options. Another blind that has changed significantly over the years is the roller blind. Roller blinds today have a much wider range of colours and funky designs, and they also now have a variety of blinds for different functions. Sunscreen blinds are a very popular option to reduce the heat of the summer sun, but equally to block the glare of the

low winter sun without blocking the light entirely. Sun blinds can also be paired with either block-out blinds or curtains for privacy at night. Roller blinds can also now be automated (ie controlled by a remote). This option is great for windows that are very high or hard to access. So next time you are looking at curtains or blinds, come and see the friendly team at Skip-2-It Flooring Xtra.

SKIP-2-IT FLOORING XTRA Providing curtain and blind solutions for your home Whether you are in the process of building a new home, want to transform your current home or only make a few simple interior improvements, our consultants will provide helpful advice on window treatments and flooring options for your lifestyle.

Contact Anna or Whitney today for a free consultation

68 Cass Street Ashburton Phone 308 0266 www.flooringxtra.co.nz

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HOUSE TO HOME

Harnessing the sun’s rays M

id Canterbury electricity users are starting to turn their attention to solar power. Pete Summerfield of Auric Electrical said his company is installing an average of one system a month, but many more were interested in learning how to harness the sun’s rays to keep electricity bills down and be kinder to the environment. While the systems have mostly been installed on residential homes, there were opportunities for smaller communities of users to band together to use solar power, or for businesses and farms, he said. “We’ve had nothing but success and good feedback from the users of the solar systems we’ve put in.” Summerfield said more education was needed around solar generation as the technology was sound. The Ashburton District receives around 1900 hours of sunshine annually and most properties are physically able to convert that to electricity. Summerfield said the temperature range was also conducive to generation year-round. Photovoltaic panels fixed to a roof convert the solar energy into electricity that can be used around the home. The most common type of system is grid-tied, meaning any energy surplus can be given back to the power company in return for a credit. Summerfield said many older couples or those nearing retirement had invested in solar because they wanted to pay for the system while they were still earning, but enjoy lower power bills in a future when they might not be working. There was also interest from younger couples, who saw it as

an investment in the future. The payback time is estimated to be around seven years. Summerfield said the technology had changed little in the past few years but people everywhere were more receptive to the idea of solar power as a renewable resource and one that was both accessible and affordable. “I’ve been doing it for six years in Ashburton now and it is constant, and starting to pick up. There will always be early adopters but there is more appetite now.”

Garage Improvements Do you want to convert your garage into a warmer useable space?

He said solar made sense financially as well as reducing a home’s carbon footprint. The most important part of the process was seeking expert advice to make sure a solar system was the right size for the user, he added. Micro-grids of solar users, or small community solar schemes, have been touted as the way of the future for solar and Mid Canterbury had a unique opportunity to be among those leading the way.

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2010 LTD

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Garage Carpet Our garage carpet is very high quality and is totally waterproof. This means that it will not harbour mildew, smell when wet, and is easy to keep clean. If you use your garage for anything other than parking your car you want garage carpet. Door Insulation Your sectional garage door is only 1mm thick. It lets the heat of of summer, and the cold of winter, come straight through. polystyrene insulation into the door panels we can noticeably improve the thermal properties of the door. CleverSeal CleverSeal is a unique brush based sealing system that effectively seals the gaps around your garage door. This stops drafts, insects, rodents, and debris from entering your garage.

Today’s construction is tomorrow’s legacy

Ceiling Insulation Up to 80% of heat escapes through the ceiling and most garage ceilings are not insulated because it is not a building code requirement. By adding 100% polyester Greenstuf insulation your garage will not lose heat through the ceiling. We use polyester insulation rather than glass fibre/earthwool types because it does not release harmful fibres or contain formaldehyde. It is therefore safer for the homeowner, the installer, and the environment.

If a home of excellent design and exceptional quality of workmanship is important to you, then look no further than Des Millar Construction. The quality home builders.

Ceiling Mounted Storage Racks Why not get your clutter off the floor and out of the way. Most garages have room above the car, or along the walls to mount these heavy duty storage rack that hang from the ceiling. Able to hold up to 250kg they are perfect for storing away those seasonal, or rarely used items while still giving easy accesss when needed.

0508 422 532

 Housing  Commercial  Farm  Renovations

With more than 30 years of building quality homes for the Mid Canterbury community, Des has a strong reputation for “old school” workmanship, backed by results. 1

For housing, Commercial, farm buildings and renovations, contact Des anytime for a free no obligation quote on 03 308 9936 or 027 432 3258

HOUSE TO HOME

Polished concrete the way to go P

olished concrete floors are gaining popularity as Mid Canterbury homeowners think long-term investments that are both beautiful and value for money. Luke Worsfold, owner of Perfect Polish, says most of the polished concrete floors he works on are new builds – residential or commercial – and owners love them. It’s not a necessity to have underfloor heating, given the insulation values of today’s modern homes, and each floor can be uniquely designed for the space. Concrete has great thermal mass and can absorb and retain heat from the sun and other heat sources, like a fire. Luke says the best results are achieved when the builder, those pouring the concrete and the polisher work together. Any concrete slab can be polished, but the end result will be determined by the aggregate used and its even placement. He says he likes to have input early about where the cuts in the concrete will be to avoid unsightly cracking further down the process. Having experts lay the concrete was important and it was one of the most crucial parts of the process. “When concrete is placed correctly, the polished floor will be flatter with more uniform aggregate exposure, and it will have fewer air holes and need fewer repairs.” Once a floor has been laid, Luke follows an eight-stage grinding and polishing process to achieve what the client wants. Individual tastes can be catered to from the outset, with the initial grind determining how much stone will be revealed and the final polish determining how much of a shine the floor will have.

Luke says the polishing process differs significantly to the look achieved by sealing a partially-polished concrete floor. The sealant is susceptible to scratching and marking from pets, furniture and high heels; a highly-polished concrete floor will not mark.

When you’re looking for best quality at an affordable price

• Residential and light commercial

“Polished concrete is getting more and more popular because it is a long-lasting and durable floor.” Cleaning is easy. “The surface is so highly-refined you don’t need harsh chemicals. You can clean it with a steam mop and then with a dry micro-fibre cloth.”

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• Farm Buildings • Network Mc Raeway Builder need EPOXY grout if you want it to last 10+ years. • Network Raeway Builder • Residential and Light Commercial •McSpecialists in Polystyrene • Specialists in Polystyrene • Alterations and Additions Building Systems Building Systems • Concrete Placing • Farm Buildings Contact GroutPro Brett Muir or Mark Butler for a quote and an upfront honest discussion. M:0274 681 E: 681 jim.reed.builder@xtra.co.nz P: P: 03 03 308308 3049 M:0274 338 E: jim.reed.builder@xtra.co.nz • Network Mc 681 Raeway Builder P: 033049 308 3049 M:338 0274 338 • Specialists in Polystyrene E: jim.reed.builder@xtra.co.nz Building Systems

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HOUSE TO HOME

Herbs easy to grow T

here’s nothing like a few fresh herbs to give extra flavour to summer salads or other dishes and the good news is, you don’t have to be an expert gardener to grow them. The most popular herbs are common sage, parsley, thyme, rosemary, oregano, mint, dill, lavender, basil, tarragon and garlic. Parlsey is one of the most versatile and is full of vitamin C, iodine, iron and magnesium and can be used in most savoury dishes like soup, casseroles, salads and with fish. It aids digestion, relieves gas and is a diuretic. Sage came from the Middle East and was traded in the olden days. It is rich in vitamins K and A and helps digestion, but can also be used for cleaning teeth! There are around 700 varieties of sage and it’s best used fresh. Rosemary is another versatile herb to have in the garden. It is a native of the Mediterranean and good for memory. Bees love rosemary so you’ll be doing your thing to help halt the declining bee population if you plant a few seedlings. Rosemary is a stimulant and rosemary oil is valued for boosting hair growth and mental activity, and reducing pain. Thyme, native to most parts of Europe, likes a dry, welldrained position. It makes good ground cover and can be used in seasoning, especially for poultry. Pam Whiteford, of the Ashburton Herb Group, says herbs don’t need a garden bed, just sun and free-draining soil to get established. They are easy to grow in pots or any container as long as they don’t dry out, or you don’t over-water them. She says if you choose to use containers, then use a good quality potting mix and add water crystals.

When harvesting, snip leaves back to healthy buds, to promote growth. Pick parsley from around the outside of the plants. Pam says mint should be planted in a container, as it spreads rapidly, and basil should be planted after the frosts are finished or in a glasshouse or on window sills. “Most herbs will grow in Mid Canterbury, and they grow best in a sheltered sunny spot.” The Ashburton Herb Group meets on the first Wednesday of the month at Grace Presbyterian Church, 63 Princes Street, at 1.45pm. Come along if you want to have an abundant harvest at your back door over the warmer months.

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Advertorial

HOUSE TO HOME

Your personality our expertise J

ennian Homes has been building top quality family homes in the South Island and Canterbury region for more than 20 years. Part of a nationwide parent company, Jennian Homes, are Registered Master Builders and provide a 10-year Master Build Guarantee, and a 36-month maintenance warranty. Jennian Homes has a solid reputation of design quality and customer satisfaction. Canterbury North director, Dwayne Prendergast, and operations manager Paul Jenkins uphold that reputation by overseeing all projects from sale to completion of the build, and handover. Their personal ownership ensures there is always someone to talk to about the design and building processes. Jennian Homes Canterbury North is pleased to offer several build choices, including house and land packages, and design and build options, all over Canterbury. “We want to make the building process as easy as possible for our clients,” says client liaison Sue Prendergast. “There can be well over 400 decisions to be made during the buiding process and it can be overwhelming. It is our job to make sure we listen to our clients to ensure their new home meets their needs, lifestyle and budget. “At the moment, we have the new and exciting Southern Series design plans which allows people the options to build on varying budgets,” Sue says. “Our team will assist you to find the perfect section for your lifestyle and then work closely with you to design your dream home. If you can imagine it, we will do our very best to make it a reality”. In last month’s Registered Master Builders House of the

From left – Dwayne and Sue Prendergast, Paul and Waireti Jenkins at the Registered Master Builders 2018 House of The Year Award, collecting three Gold Awards.

Year Award Jennian Homes Canterbury North were awarded three gold awards. Two of their display homes, situated in Rolleston and Rangiora, were awarded Gold in the GIB Show Home Award Category whilst a new build in Beckenham saw Jennian Homes awarded Gold again in the Resene New Home category up to $450,000. “It is wonderful to be recognised for our efforts and high standards in finishing and design,” Sue said. Jennian Homes Canterbury North has a display home at 8 Whiteoak Grove, Oaklea, Ashburton, open from Wednesday, Thursday and Friday noon-4pm and Sunday noon-3pm. The team is available to open the display home at any time

by appointment. The display home is another great example of the stunning quality homes Dwayne and his team bring to the market. Jennian Homes Canterbury North also proudly have display homes in Faringdon, Rolleston, Timaru and Rangiora. Contact Sue on 0210559546, or via email at sue.prendergast@jennian.co.nz

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Jennian Homes Canterbury North pride themselves on delivering the home you’ve always wanted. All of their homes are designed and built to award winning standards.

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8 Whiteoak Grove, Ashburton Open: Wednesday 1pm-3pm, Thurday 4pm-6pm and Sunday 12pm-3pm

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To see what an award winning home has to offer visit one of their exceptional display homes.

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This year the team at Jennian Homes Canterbury North were awarded three golds at Registered Master Builders House of The Year awards— Where they took home a Gold for their entry in to the Resene New Home up to $450,000 Category and another two Gold awards for both of their Display Homes in the GIB Show Home Category.

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7 Lemonwood Drive, Rolleston Open: Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-4pm

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Jennian Homes Canterbury North 212 Main South Road, Sockburn P 03 741 1436 E canterburynorth@jennian.co.nz jennian.co.nz

Adam Blake M 021 195 0346

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Dwayne Prendergast M 021 220 0591

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