Issuu

AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE

MAY/JUNE 2025

RRP $10.50

RAW BEAUTY A modernist holiday home takes on Central Otago’s terrain

CURVEBALL The surprising design that’s a whale of a tale

SEE THE LIGHT An Auckland family home bathed in sunshine

WONDER WOOL Warm fuzzies for our favourite fibre 105

106

Visit us: artwood.nz | Email: info@ji.net.nz | Call: 0800 ARTWOOD

Welcome “C

heck this out,” says my threeyear-old granddaughter before making a silly face. It makes me laugh every single time. She was just growing out of the baby stage when I arrived at abode and is now almost sounding more like a teenager than a toddler. They really do grow up so fast, which, of course, sets one thinking about the future they’ll see. So the abode team is thrilled to highlight in this issue just a few of the people, products and ideas that rethink the ways we build and furnish our homes with an eye to sustainability. With solutions both big and small, from low-VOC insulation to bamboo floors, there’s also an extra focus on the many benefits of that wonder-fibre, wool. I’m so grateful to know there are those with passion and ingenuity to make a difference, with clever improvements and new innovations, so we can all look our mokopuna in the eye and feel confident about the impact we’re making on their world. Make sure you check out the Sustainable Materials special feature from page 25. And on the subject of mindfulness, our home features from page 35 are all beautiful examples of the best in renovations and new builds. All of them, from a coastal downsizer in Sumner (page 60) to an architect’s own home in Auckland (page 36), are perfectly crafted for the homeowners. You’ll find thoughtful details about the liveability, style and wider effects in each bespoke home, so there’s something to inspire everyone.

Cassie Doherty EDITOR cassie@27publishers.co.nz

PUBLISHER

Twenty Seven Publishers Ltd lisa@27publishers.co.nz EDITOR

Cassie Doherty cassie@27publishers.co.nz DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Kamo Marsh Landscape Architects create quality landscape designs. Based in Christchurch and Queenstown, our talented team are ready for your next residential or commercial project. kamomarsh.co.nz 03 366 8181

CHRISTCHURCH - QUEENSTOWN

Rachel Lowrey designer@27publishers.co.nz DEPUTY EDITOR

Kathy Young kathy@27publishers.co.nz GENERAL MANAGER AND SALES

Caroline Martin caroline@27publishers.co.nz

abodemagazine.co.nz

CONTRIBUTORS

Sven Alberding, Robyn Alexander, James Allen, Jamie Armstrong, Jess Burges, Jamie Cobel, Rachael Cone, Nik Dimock Optik NZ, Todd Eyre, Finlay Photo, Warren Heath/Bureaux, Rachael Kwok, Simon Larkin, Dean McGuigan, Tony Milne, Brodie Reed, Shelley Sweeney, Nici Wickes, John Williams, Simon Wilson PRINT

Blueprint, Christchurch ISSN 2703-3279 (Print) ISSN 2703-4445 (Online)

@abodemagazineNZ

@abode_magazine

abode is published bi-monthly and is a registered trademark. While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretations of the subject matter contained herein. The reader of this publication assumes all responsibility for the use of these materials and information. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional. abode asserts copyright on all material published within abode and none of it shall be reproduced, wholly or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. abode reserves the right to edit or abridge all letters or other material, whether solicited or otherwise, prior to publication. For all enquiries, please email hello@27publishers.co.nz

spaces inspired by your story We design living spaces that are beautiful, inspirational, and suit the way that you and your family like to live. From end-to-end interior design to helping you find that one perfect piece, Nextdore helps you create a space that reflects your unique style.

Showroom at 102 Montreal Street Sydenham nextdore.co.nz

Contents FE ATU RE S 14

H E AT AT H O M E A guide to staying cosy this winter

A PERFECT FIT Plantation shutters for a high-end finish

R O O M S E RV I C E Create an elegant dining space

I N S I D E S T Y LE Defining spaces, and unexpected colour

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS : PLUS , THE BENEFITS OF WOOL 26 WONDERFUL WOOL That versatile, feel-good fibre 27 A LIGHT TOUCH Handcrafted timber and wool pendants 2 8 TAKE THE FLOOR The magic of New Zealand wool rugs 29 A RE AL LUXURY An invitation to relax and reconnect 30 THE MERINO DRE AM You need merino for a good night’s sleep 31 THE BETTER OPTION Setting the bar in eco-friendly insulation

32 THE ART OF (UN)BUILDING A sustainable alternative to demolition 33 THE NEW BAMBOO For cladding, decking, flooring and more

HOME S

A P L AC E I N TH E S U N An architect’s own warm, bright home

W E LCO M E H O M E Every day is a holiday in the Far North

E XC E P TI O N A L C I R CU M S TA N C E S A challenging design, a masterful build

R E F I N E D BY D E S I G N A beachside retreat in Sumner

A W H A LE O F A TA LE Organic curves and strong lines

INSIDE OUT A 1970s townhouse transformed

B R U TA LI S T R E TR E AT A modernist getaway in Central Otago

S P E C I A L V I NTAG E Quirky cottage charm in Cape Town

COLU MNS 8

NKBA A good designer makes all the difference

TOTA L R E A LT Y In good health

R O U G H M I LN E M I TC H E LL Feeling amenable

104

G O LD E N H O M E S Getting your ducks in a row

LIFE S T YLE 96

TH E G O O D LI F E

I N TH E K I TC H E N Lamb Massaman Curry

REG U L AR S 2

W E LCO M E

TH E H O M E PAG E

S U B S C R I B E TO abode

INSPIRING FINDS

S H O P W I N D OW

AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE

MAY/JUNE 2025

RRP $10.50

PROJECT

Ovolo Nishi Hotel

LOCATION

Canberra, Australia

SYSTEM

ROCKCOTE Clay Decor Natural coloured clay plaster

RAW BEAUTY

MAY/JUNE 2025

FINISH

Heavy distressed, and layered plaster

A modernist holiday home takes on Central Otago’s terrain

Made by nature Finished by hand

ROCKCOTE’s handcrafted plaster finishes bring a warm, tactile quality and works to complement Ovolo Nishi Hotel’s palette of raw, honest materials — aged timber, concrete beams and reclaimed elements. These natural plasters not only enhance the sensory experience but will also develop character over time — aging gracefully, like a well-loved leather jacket, becoming more beautiful with every passing year.

Abode Ovolo Ad.indd 1

A R T IS A N I N T E R I O R S

C O NST R U C T I O N PR O D U C T S

ISSUE 76

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CL A D D I N G SYST E MS

CURVEBALL The surprising design that’s a whale of a tale

SEE THE LIGHT An Auckland family home bathed in sunshine

WONDER WOOL Warm fuzzies for our favourite fibre

7/04/25 3:21 PM

ON THE COVER A brutalist design by Team Green Architects rivals the rugged Central Otago landscape. Photography: Simon Larkin

The Home Page Social comments, musings, questions and requests from our readers C MA K E YOUR BED We were excited to welcome Bolt of Cloth as our very first expert in abode’s newest section, Room Service – with decor and styling ideas from those in the know. This time, Asko Design outlines some clever ways to create an inviting dining space, on page 19. And don’t forget to check out the Inside Style section from page 20, with colour insights from our favourite architects and designers.

B I N YO U R E L E M E N T There were happy emojis on the socials for last issue’s cover home by Johnston Architects, a three-gabled beauty built for entertaining in scenic Arrowtown. You’ll find all of abode’s feature stories on Facebook @abodemagazineNZ or Instagram @abode_magazine, so make sure you’re giving us a follow. Then turn to page 35 for this edition’s crop of stunning feature homes.

E B E INS P I R E D There’s so much to see in every issue of abode. Our Inspiring Finds section, for example, wraps up every look from mid-mod to butter yellow. Make sure to subscribe so you never miss a detail. Head to abodemagazine.co.nz/ subscribe or turn to page 13 – and be in with a chance to win a stunning limited edition print, thanks to Parnell Gallery.

D CO O L CO L L AB Readers loved “The personal touch” last edition: the story of a builder’s family home in ˉ Otautahi, by Mark Saunders of Saunders Building, in conjunction with his longtime collaborators Design Workshop Architecture and Michelle Lamb Interior Architecture. Missed this one? The great news is that all our feature home articles are online at abodemagazine.co.nz.

B STUDY SESSION “This is cute” was the direct message we received from a follower about this warm and modern family home in Cape Town. Our overseas features offer a peek at trends and ideas from further afield, and in this issue “Special vintage” showcases cottagecore style in another South African home. What’s cottagecore? Find out from page 90.

Find us

abodemagazine.co.nz

@abodemagazineNZ

@abode_magazine

Independently Brilliant With 27 years importing direct into Christchurch, Brymac Tiles has a wealth of experience and specialist knowledge to draw on. We offer extensive ranges of porcelain stoneware and specialised tiling consumables. For quality materials and immaculate installation, you can count on Brymac Tiles.

Visit our showroom

42 Durham Street . Christchurch . Ph 03 366 8187

brymactiles.co.nz 7

Kitchen designed by Melanie Sa'u Design Studio. Photography © John Williams

A GOOD DESIGNER MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE Rachael Kwok, Executive Officer of National Kitchen & Bathroom Association NZ (NKBA), on designing the best kitchen for you.

hen building or renovating, one of the biggest expenses is the kitchen. It’s easy to see why, with gorgeous materials and finishes, alongside time and labour, a new kitchen is most definitely an investment in your home and lifestyle. However, any investment needs to be well thought out to ensure it’s a good decision and not a costly one. Here’s how: •

•

Select a designer of NKBA who will give you the confidence that every detail is backed by experience, expertise and industry-approved standards. Start with quality. Select finishes and details that will stand the test of time. That extra dollar at install will help to avoid replacement or repair later. A kitchen that doesn’t function is a bad investment. Poor design choices don’t just look bad; they cost you time, money and frustration. Whether it’s awkward layouts, poor spatial flow or inefficient storage, the wrong design can set you back thousands. Ensure your kitchen design is well planned out to provide plenty of storage, eliminate clutter, and create efficiency when you’re cooking up a storm. Consider trends carefully before going all in on a bold colour or theme. I get it! Those curves and sage greens are oh so in, but will they still be in favour in two years’ time? A kitchen tends to be replaced once every decade, so choose

•

timeless over trending. Our 2025 NKBA trends survey showed warm timbers and soft neutrals were the most popular choice with homeowners. Consider your future needs. Are you planning a family? Is your home a short- or long-term abode? Do you need accessible spaces? All these decisions should impact your kitchen design. Is porcelain the best choice for your family because it’s nonporous, durable and easily maintained? Do you need your bench at an accessible height or soft touch cabinet hinges? Does your kitchen need to be more marketable to ensure saleability is higher? Work out your needs and future needs to ensure your kitchen goes the distance. Set yourself a budget and make sure you have enough not to cut corners. Our 2025 NKBA trends survey showed that most kitchens cost somewhere between $20,000 and $50,000, excluding appliances.

These questions are complex with many options available to meet your needs and your budget. A good designer easily interprets your brief and finds solutions that meet your wants and needs. Choosing a professional Designer of NKBA is the smart choice to ensure you install a kitchen you will love, for the long haul. nkba.org.nz/find-a-designer

R ACH A E L K WO K Executive Officer of National Kitchen & Bathroom Association NZ

A RC H ITECTUR AL BATH WARE

Sa n d C lo ud Pav i l io n de si g ne d by Pat te r so n Asso c iate s

R ACH A E L CO N E Managing Director of Total Realty

IN GOOD HEALTH Myriad benefits can be expected from the new Healthy Homes Standards. Rachael Cone of Total Realty in Christchurch explains.

ith the deadline of 1 July 2025 for compliance with Healthy Homes Standards fast approaching, landlords nationwide are working hard to ensure their properties meet the requirements. It’s a busy time for everyone involved. The Residential Tenancies (Healthy Homes Standards) Regulations were established on 1 July 2019, and set out the minimum requirements for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture control, drainage and draught prevention in all rental properties. Each has had various deadlines along the way that landlords have been required to meet. The aim is to help tenants maintain warm and dry homes while also helping landlords save on long-term property maintenance by preventing issues such as damp and mould. It is a timely reminder for us that property investment isn’t a passive venture,

or a set-and-forget process. It requires strategic and proactive management and maintenance to protect your portfolio’s long-term value. While maintenance might sometimes feel like a financial burden, neglecting it can often lead to significantly higher costs in the long run. Small issues, if left unattended, can quickly escalate into expensive and sometimes extensive repairs. One very key benefit of maintaining a well-kept property is that it will attract responsible tenants who are more likely to pay their rent on time, stay longer and take much better care of the property, as they appreciate the effort you have put into maintaining it. It creates a mutually beneficial relationship. Economically speaking, the costs associated with vacancies and the time spent finding new tenants can quickly exceed the investment required for repairs and keeping existing tenants happy.

At Total Realty, we frequently see high demand for well-maintained properties from both tenants and buyers. A well-kept investment property not only spends less time on the market when it comes time to sell but also commands a higher price, giving you a much better return on your investment. Property maintenance is a strategy that offers savvy investors significant long-term benefits. By prioritising regular property maintenance, you can reduce repair costs, attract reliable tenants and achieve a better sales price in less time when you decide to sell. If you’re considering selling and need some guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team across the South Island. Just remember that our commission is only 1.5 per cent for our full Total Realty real estate service. We sell, you save. totalrealty.co.nz

Style that works

In the kitchen, ergonomics are just as crucial as design, It’s not only a functional workspace but also a place to gather. The AVENTOS top family has been developed to enhance the existing lift system range and offer a perfect blend of functionality and sophisticated style, enhancing your space to be both beautiful and practical. Visit blum.com to find more inspiring storage solutions. www.blum.com

TO N Y M I L N E Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects

FEELING AMENABLE

write this from our Nelson studio to the sound of an atmospheric river raining down on the roof above. Atmospheric river is a term new to my lexicon. I have recently learned such phenomena are “relatively long, narrow regions in the atmosphere (five times longer than they are wide) – like rivers of water in the sky, bucketing rain onto your head”. Colloquially, and to most, a downpour. A slightly strange segue into the concept of amenity, which is possibly a new term for some of you. It’s a construct not necessarily long and narrow; rather wide, braided and entangled. Amenity is a term I continue to wrestle with; it mostly has me in a Half Nelson. However, it’s a term I find interesting and worthy of a few words. As landscape architects, not only do we design, but some of us also undertake landscape assessments for resource consents and plan changes. Such projects can be very wide-ranging. One minute, we may be assessing the landscape effects of a solar farm; the next, a new town or even a Colonel Sanders bucket sign! For the past 34 years this has

Tony Milne of Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects on the meaning and mystery of amenity.

been under the statutory framework of the Resource Management Act (RMA). One of the things that is often considered in a landscape assessment are amenity values. So, in this context, what is amenity? (Not to be confused with amenities – a good, clean one of which we all appreciate.) Amenity values are defined in the RMA as: “Those natural or physical qualities and characteristics of an area that contribute to people’s appreciation of its pleasantness, aesthetic coherence, and cultural and recreational attributes.” That all seems straightforward enough. But as a learned family member pointed out to me, considering “people’s appreciation” is fraught because as soon as the idea of individual judgement is introduced to an objective conceptual framework, it collapses from the inside. A good point. Our definitions of amenity are very much shaped by cultural values, traditions and societal structures. We all appreciate different things for different reasons. Astrid from Norway, who has an infinity with sustainability and cycle infrastructure, may

view the under-construction Kawarau Gorge Trail quite differently from a herpetologist. Eric, the structural engineer specialising in cantilevered structures, may be more appreciative than anyone. To unpick amenity, one must identify landscape values first. Importantly, landscape values exist in all landscapes. The places where we mostly live our lives have values to those who live in them and pass through them. It is then an explanation as to how such landscape values contribute to amenity values. That is probably the crux of making sense of the rather amorphous term “amenity values”. Recently the coalition government announced new planning legislation that would see two new acts – a Planning Act and a Natural Environment Act – replace the RMA. As far as amenity values go, I wonder if they will be swept away in the torrent the equivalent of an atmospheric river. I imagine this will render some aghast, others excited, and the majority indifferent. rmmla.co.nz

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reat yourself or a friend to a year of abode (six issues) for only $57 and you’ll never miss a detail. Every bi-monthly issue of abode features inspirational architecture and interior design, plus building and renovation advice from experts around Aotearoa. Subscribe before the end of June 2025 and you could be the lucky winner of a limited edition print by Sara Langdon, with thanks to Parnell Gallery. A contemporary artist represented by Auckland’s longstanding Parnell Gallery, Sara Langdon’s works are a response to New Zealand’s unique landscapes. Evergreen III is a limited edition fine art print based on an award-winning original painting. An evocative addition to any home, Evergreen III is a 60 x 60cm unframed custom print using high-quality cotton rag paper. It is hand-signed by Sara and retails at $725. See more at saralangdon.com and parnellgallery.co.nz Only one chance to win so go to abodemagazine.co.nz/ subscribe or scan this QR code.

One lucky abode subscriber will win a limited edition print by Sara Langdon valued at $725!

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SURVEY AND SUBDIVISION EXPERTS

We help everyone in the Canterbury Architecture and Construction Industry

Get in touch with us today, 0508 787 887 or hello@survus.co.nz 13

HEAT AT HOME Make sure you’re cosy and comfortable for winter with these options from Simply Heat and Stoke Fires.

imply Heat has been engineering home heating solutions for more than 15 years. Choosing the right solution in Christchurch can be a challenge, given our cold winters and variable climate, so here is the Simply Heat guide to the best home heating options for local conditions. Heat pumps: Efficient and versatile Heat pumps are popular in Christchurch because of their energy efficiency, low cost and versatility. Capable of both heating and cooling, they are particularly effective in moderate climates. Options include split systems for individual rooms or multi-split systems for several areas, and the initial cost ranges from $2500 to $16,000, depending on the system size and complexity. Ducted heat pumps: Whole home comfort If you want to seamlessly heat your entire home, ducted heat pumps are the way to go. They are ideal for new builds but can often be retrofitted into existing homes. These systems distribute air through a network of ducts, ensuring even heating or cooling throughout the home. While the initial installation cost can be high (ranging from $8000 to $16,000), the long-term energy savings and consistent comfort make them a worthwhile investment.

Wood burners: Traditional warmth with modern efficiency Wood burners continue to be a favourite, especially for older or less insulated properties. “They provide consistent and powerful heating,” says Michael Kain of Simply Heat. “Modern models are designed for efficiency and low emissions, meeting clean air requirements. These requirements are different for each council, with Christchurch City being the strictest.” Supply and installation costs vary from $5000 to $14,000. Gas fires: Instant heat If you’re after style and warmth, gas fires are a fantastic choice. They’re especially great for homeowners who want a modern aesthetic.

Heat Pumps Visit our showroom 95 Byron Sreet, Sydenham Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 1pm 03 365 3685 | info@simplyheat.co.nz simplyheat.co.nz

Ducted Heat Pumps Hot Water Heat Pumps Ventilation Systems

While they require a gas connection and can have higher operational costs, the convenience makes them a popular choice. Budget around $9000 to $20,000 for installation. “When I’m helping clients choose the best home heating system, I consider the home’s size, insulation and specific heating needs,” says Michael. “At Simply Heat and Stoke Fires, we’ll make sure you get a heating system that’s energy-efficient, reliable and perfectly suited to your lifestyle.” You can download a free Home Heating Guide from Simply Heat’s website, and for expert advice and installation, visit their showroom at 95 Byron Street in Sydenham. simplyheat.co.nz

ESCEA NEXT-G ENERATION WOOD FIREPLACES With a pared-back aesthetic, expansive viewing window, and innovative direct vent technology, Escea Wood Fireplaces are a modern take on an old classic. Crafted in the deep south of New Zealand, made for Canterbury homes. SEE NOW AT STOKE CHRISTCHURCH

95 Byron Street, Sydenham | 03 365 3685 stokefires.com

A PERFECT FIT Norman Plantation Shutters from Canterbury Window Coverings provide a high-end finishing touch for a Christchurch renovation.

anterbury Window Coverings often works alongside interior designers to offer a premium mobile service. “On a beautiful, mild Christchurch day, we stepped inside a Merivale home recently sold by Grant Chappell of Harcourts Papanui,” says Canterbury Window Coverings’ Chris Swart. “Our team was fascinated with the copper tiles and the architecturally designed entranceway that wowed anyone walking in.” As part of the interior upgrades to the home by the new owners, Canterbury Window Coverings specified and installed Norman Plantation Shutters by Santa Fe for a seamless look that elevated the home’s airy feel. While the brief called for privacy and ease of filtering the light, the bonus is that Norman interior shutters offer even more. They are custom-made to fit in each individual

opening and are manufactured to the highest standards. There are many options to suit any room, including blade sizes, finishes and colours and can hinge, bifold or slide. There’s also scope for interior shutters to be motorised and controlled via an app. Chris and the team loved working with the owners of this Merivale home who are very happy with the elegant and functional end result. With long experience in the industry, Canterbury Window Coverings makes the whole experience easy, helping you find the window treatment that works best. It is 100 per cent Kiwi-owned and operated, and sources quality materials from around the world. To find out more, explore all the options and make an enquiry, visit the website. cwcblinds.nz

Experience the difference. Come home to comfort every time. Experience the future of home building with Jennian Homes, where sustainability meets unmatched quality. With over 40 years of expertise, we redefine living, with a focus on building warm, dry, energy-efficient homes. Count on us as industry leaders to craft your cosy dream home today, meticulously designed to meet the demands of tomorrow.

Visit jennian.co.nz for all the latest in interior design and inspiration for your home.

Find us on Facebook for all the latest news, updates and offers.

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

Inspiring Finds New looks, design ideas and finishing touches

Orla Kiely Early Bird Mug in Yellow boltofcloth.com Pin Table Lamp in Ochre cittadesign.com

BUTTER UP Soft and creamy but still cheerful, this is a tasty trend to indulge in.

Twinny Locker in Butter by Mustard Made shutthefrontdoor.co.nz

Sunny Day Soft Yellow Lunch Plate thestudio.co.nz

Carmo Sofa in Mustard Capri fabric boconcept.com

Platform Stool in Sunshine with Seat Cover cittadesign.com

Awa Pot in Shiny Butter by Oyoy paperplanestore.com 18

Eden Footstool in Mustard Capri fabric boconcept.com

Room Service Decor and styling ideas from those in the know

FOUR TIPS FROM KIM VAN DUIVEN, ASKO DESIGN: GOOD PROPORTIONS. Consider your table size carefully. If the table is too small, it will get lost; too large, and it will dwarf the room. MIX IT UP. Dining room chairs don’t need to match the

table. Don’t be afraid to mix styles to achieve a unique look.

Fine dining Create an inviting dining retreat where elegance meets comfort. Featuring timeless designs, these carefully crafted pieces available from Asko Design offer not only style but also enduring comfort. The natural wood grain finishes exude a classic charm, infusing the room with warmth and durability. Let the Bologna dining table and Florence chairs take centre stage while bold statement pieces on your Lucca sideboard add layers of texture and visual interest, creating a space that’s functional and stunning.

ON THE SIDEBOARD. They’re not at all antiquated but are

instead versatile pieces for storage, additional surfaces for serving food, or just to create definition in your open-plan dining space. You can also coordinate your choice so that it complements your dining room table and dining chairs and provides a space for a thoughtfully curated display. USE MIRRORS: If your dining space is pokey or dark,

mirrors can create the illusion of space and light. If you place a wall mirror parallel to the dining table, it can give a nice symmetry to your space for a balanced aesthetic.

askodesign.co.nz 19

Inside Style

Colour advice from New Zealand’s best designers and architects

In the zone How architect Craig South and interior designer Kyla Davies of South Architects use colour to define light and space. TELL US ABOUT THIS PROJECT.

Nestled on the outskirts of Christchurch, this modern family home is designed for a young family with a work-from-home parent, offering a balance of functionality, warmth and connection to its semi-rural surroundings. A combination of blockwork and timber cladding grounds the home within its landscape, creating a strong yet inviting exterior. The use of natural materials continues inside, reinforcing a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors. HOW HAVE YOU USED COLOUR HERE?

We have used colour blocking in the powder room, ensuite bathroom and main bedroom suite to create a sense of intimacy and depth within these private spaces. The carefully

chosen hues define and enhance each area, adding a layer of warmth and character. Skylights introduce natural light, subtly shifting the perception of colour throughout the day, further enriching the atmosphere. HOW DOES THE SOUTH ARCHITECTS TEAM WORK TOGETHER?

We strongly believe that every project has a unique story, and it starts and ends with our clients. We work very closely with every homeowner to consider their needs, the place and its purpose to come up with something special. The design process really is a journey, with various team members and consultants working alongside Craig, and as interior designer Kyla plays a key role.

Hot pick

Resene Coco

Earthy greens

Resene Spanish Green

WHY IS COLOUR IMPORTANT?

Using colour in a family home enhances both functionality and atmosphere, creating a space that is warm, inviting and reflective of the people who live there. Thoughtful colour choices can make a home feel more spacious, improve mood and define different areas for work, play and relaxation. We have used a lot of natural, earthy tones in the last few years. Shades that evoke nature and tranquillity are popular, including sage, olive and forest green. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE ON USING PAINT?

Natural and artificial light dramatically affect how colours appear. Make sure that you use big test samples and test at different times during the day.

Resene Haven

Resene Forest Green

Resene Kaitoke Green

Resene Saratoga

DO YOU HAVE A NEW FAVOURITE COLOUR?

We have seen some great use of the rich, chocolate red of Resene Coco. This is a versatile colour that will suit both heritage and contemporary spaces. southarchitects.co.nz

Resene Siam

resene.co.nz

The power of the unexpected Katy Husband, owner and lead designer of Feather and Oak Interiors in Canterbury, on making colour work in modern spaces.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO USE COLOUR?

Creating spaces that tell personal stories is at the heart of our design philosophy at Feather and Oak Interiors. I’m particularly drawn to using colour in unexpected ways. Our design studio bathroom perfectly exemplifies this approach, where we’ve paired House of Hackney’s striking Plantasia wallpaper with Resene Field Day on the skirting, ceiling and door. This combination creates a cohesive, immersive experience that offers a fresh perspective on the current trend of neutral palettes.

Project colour

Resene Field Day

WHAT DID YOU DO WITH PAINT HERE?

While many people focus solely on wall colours, I believe the magic often lies in the details. Skirting boards, coving, ceilings and doors are vital elements that can transform a space from pleasant to extraordinary. Using Resene Field Day on these elements in our studio bathroom creates a sophisticated frame for the botanical wallpaper, demonstrating how thoughtful colour placement can elevate a design. WHAT’S YOUR APPROACH TO COLOUR?

My approach to colour stems from the understanding that paint is more than just wall coverage; it’s a tool for creating atmosphere and emotional connection. When clients walk into our bathroom, they’re immediately struck by how the green trim elements complement and enhance the wallpaper, creating a space that feels both bold and harmonious. The current trend toward neutral interiors makes these colour choices even more impactful. When thoughtfully applied, colour becomes a powerful tool for creating distinctive spaces that stand out from the crowd. HOW CAN WE DO THE SAME?

For those hesitant about using colour, I recommend starting with these smaller elements. Painting a door or skirting board in a bold hue is less committal than an entire wall but can have equally impressive impact. Some of my favourite colours for these applications include Resene Half Foundry, Resene Field Day and a new favourite, Resene Outlaw. These are all versatile choices that bridge natural and designed elements beautifully. This understanding of colour’s transformative power forms an essential component of Your Dream Home Academy, which is our online series of instructional modules available to purchase and download. As part of our comprehensive design approach, we guide homeowners through the process of creating confident colour schemes that reflect their personality while maintaining design integrity. In the module “Creating your space: Vision to plans”, colour selection is just one of the many crucial elements we explore as we help people transform their design dreams into reality. Here’s my advice for using colour successfully: •

Consider the entire space, not just the walls.

•

Don’t overlook architectural details.

•

Use colour to create connection between elements.

•

Test samples in different lights.

•

Think about how colours flow between spaces.

featherandoak.co.nz

Go-to colours

Resene Half Foundry

Resene Field Day

Resene Outlaw

resene.co.nz

LOCAL FOUNDATIONS. WORLD-CLASS DELIVERY.

Jim the Builder

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS A look at innovative ways to build and furnish our homes with an eye to the environment, from low-VOC insulation to bamboo floors – and a special focus on the many benefits of wool.

The magic of a New Zealand wool rug, see page 28.

S U S TA I N A B L E M AT E R I A L S 25

CWrap yourself in luxury with a Klippan throw, crafted from natural lambswool fibres for exceptional softness and warmth. Perfect for cosy nights, stylish living and timeless comfort – it’s a must-have for any home. anyexcuse.co.nz

BMcLean & Co. specialise in weaving and stitching bespoke homewares using locally sourced New Zealand wool. They weave limited-edition textile pieces on foot-powered Hattersley looms, blending craftsmanship and a deep respect for heritage and the environment. Visit the website to find out more about these timeless heirlooms for you to treasure. mcleanandco.nz

WONDERFUL WOOL

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Here are four inspired ways to make the most of the versatile feel-good fibre.

BElevate your bedroom with Wink Design’s stylish custom bedheads and accessories, hand-crafted in New Zealand by our skilled craftspeople. Made sustainably with wool and other eco-friendly materials so you can be assured they’re kind to the planet, chic and made with care for your dream bedroom.

BSustaina Grow simplifies seasonal gardening with user-friendly kits. Their In-Season Garlic Grow Pack makes it easy for anyone to grow fresh garlic right at home, effortlessly. The Garlic grow mat is made from 100 per cent New Zealand wool. It’s eco-friendly, helps with moisture retention and weed suppression, and it nourishes the soil as it breaks down naturally over time.

winkdesign.co.nz

sustainagrow.co.nz

Cast Lighting’s handcrafted timber and wool pendants are inspired by the Aotearoa landscape.

the South Island’s landscape. “By combining these organic materials with simple, elegant forms, I create lighting that radiates warmth and a strong sense of place.” Jonny says he thrives on problem-solving and refining techniques to create unique pendant lights. “Collaborating with interior and lighting designers to develop one-of-akind pieces is particularly rewarding, often sparking new ideas and innovations.” As each piece is made to order and tailored to the client’s needs, no two are ever identical. “Some of my favourite projects involve repurposing timber salvaged from a client’s old home, transforming a piece of their history into a bespoke light fitting for their new space,” he says. “Creating lighting with personal meaning is a privilege, and I take pride in every piece I make.”

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A light touch

ast Lighting was founded four years ago to fill a gap that Jonny Hall saw in the market for handcrafted lighting made from locally sourced timber and materials. The designs are pared-back, sculptural and sustainably made, using recycled and local materials. Each piece is unique, showcasing the natural beauty of timber grain and New Zealand spun wool. Jonny’s journey began about 12 years ago when he started making small lamps as a side project. “These early designs became the foundation for the bonded woollen shades I create today,” he says. The wool he uses is undyed and sourced from surplus carpet yarn produced by a manufacturer in Christchurch. When illuminated, the woollen shades emit a soft, ambient glow, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The timber, either reclaimed or locally grown, reflects the natural beauty of

castlighting.nz