Abode - Issue 78 - September/October 2025

AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025

RRP $10.50

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS SHOWCASE

RETURN OF THE CENTURY Iconic art deco style in a bold new build

GET RICH Opulent interiors, punchy pastels and moody hues

FIND YOUR FAVOURITE Highlights from the NKBA design awards 105

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C an t e r b u r y

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GOLD AWARD 2025

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Interior Design

REGIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

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2025 C an t e r b u r y

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REGIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARD

Kitchen

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REGIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARD

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REGIONAL SUPREME WINNER

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Winner of Canterbury Supreme House of the Year over $1 million, Kitchen Excellence Award, McKenzie & Willis Interior Design Award and New Home over $4 million Award

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Congratulations to all winners in the 2025 Canterbury Region House of the Year Awards

C an t e r b u r y

Builder: Steve Brown Builders | Location: Redcliffs, Christchurch This project is more than a house, it’s a story of perseverance, place, and deep connection. Rising from the steep Redcliffs terrain, the home unfolds in levels, each one revealing thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship.

A standout project in every sense and a home that truly belongs.

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GOLD AWARD 2025

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REGIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

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REGIONAL SUPREME WINNER

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Winner of Canterbury Supreme House of the Year under $1 million and Altus Window Systems New Home $750,000 – $1 million

C an t e r b u r y

C an t e r b u r y

Builder: Saunders Building | Location: Kennedys Bush, Christchurch This home proves that great design doesn’t need a huge budget – it just needs care, clarity, and craft. Saunders Building has delivered a project where every decision, from spatial layout to finishing detail, has been made with intent and precision. The result is a home that feels calm, light-filled, and deeply liveable.

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Outdoor Living

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GOLD AWARD 2025

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REGIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

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REGIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARD

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2025

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REGIONAL SUPREME WINNER

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Winner of Canterbury Supreme Renovation of the Year, Outdoor Living Excellence Award and Renovation $1 million – $2 million

C an t e r b u r y

Builder: Matt Harrison Construction | Location: Merivale, Christchurch

2025

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GOLD AWARD 2025

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Bathroom

REGIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARD Smart Home

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REGIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARD

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GOLD AWARD

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REGIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

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Environmental & Sustainable

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REGIONAL LIFESTYLE AWARD

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AWARD

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REGIONAL

CRAFTSMANSHIP

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Builder: O’Connell Builders Location: Rolleston, Canterbury te

Builder: High Country Homes Canterbury Location: Loburn, Canterbury te

Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award and PDL by Schneider Electric Smart Home Award

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Mitre 10 Trade Craftsmanship Award, APL Environmental and Sustainable Excellence Award and Builder’s Own Home Award

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This renovation is a complete reinvention yet still honours the home’s 1990s beginnings. It strikes a confident balance between past and present, blending the original character with modern lifestyle needs in a way that feels natural and lasting.

A refined and impressive project that sets a benchmark.

GIB Show Home Category Winner

Mixed Development Category Winner

Builder: McIntosh Builders Location: West Melton, Canterbury

Builder: Freedom Built Location: Rolleston, Canterbury

Builder: O’Connell Builders Location: St Albans, Christchurch

C an t e r b u r y

New Home $1.5 million – $2 million Category Winner

Builder: Saunders Building Location: Marshland, Christchurch

Builder: Frost Architectural Builders Location: Hillsborough, Christchurch

Builder: Dimension Building Location: Twizel

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REGIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

GOLD AWARD 2025

2025

C an t e r b u r y

Master Build 10 year Guarantee Multi Unit (Apartments/Duplexes/ Terrace Housing) Category Winner

Volume/Group Housing New Home $500,000 – $750,000 Category Winner

Builder: Saunders Building Location: Kennedys Bush, Christchurch

Builder: LOC Construction Location: Clifton, Christchurch

Builder: Greenland Homes Location: Casebrook, Christchurch

C an t e r b u r y

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REGIONAL CATEGORY WINNER

GOLD AWARD

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GOLD AWARD

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Welcome M

y dream scenario involves never needing to cook again.

Having been in charge of family meals since the 1990s, I’m over it.

It’s true that my husband actually does most of the cooking, but I’m still called upon far too often for my liking, even as a kitchen hand and dishwasher.

My goal one day truly is that we’ll go out for dinner as much as reasonably possible, and the rest of the time be looked after by a personal chef.

Given that, apparently, this is not a very feasible plan, the best option would be for a lovely, functional, sophisticated, modern kitchen. One that makes cooking just as satisfying as eating.

If, like me, you’re planning a beautiful new kitchen (or bathroom – perhaps you have other priorities), you’re in the right place. Welcome to the kitchens and bathrooms special issue of abode. Pages and pages of inspirational images, styling ideas, good advice and helpful information, and the jewel in the crown is our special section, from page 33, highlighting the standout entries in the 2025 NKBA Excellence in Design Awards.

Want more? Of course. Our feature homes this issue, starting from page 51, are also a feast for the eyes. With big ideas and quirky personalities, each one of them has an amazing story to tell.

So dig in, enjoy the spring, and gather some ideas for some fresh new spaces.

Cassie Doherty EDITOR cassie@27publishers.co.nz

PUBLISHER

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

where quality comes first

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

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

engineered stone / marble granite / kitchens / vanities hearths / maintenance MOB 021 240 0124 EMAIL info@shaneboydgranite.co.nz 21 Disraeli Street Sydenham, Christchurch 4

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

Caroline Martin caroline@27publishers.co.nz

abodemagazine.co.nz

CONTRIBUTORS

Jamie Armstrong Photography, Jamie Cobel, Rachael Cone, Deft Photography, Toni Gale, Stephen Goodenough, Sarah Harding, Adam Hodgson, Rachael Kwok, Dean McGuigan, Kallan Macleod, Anna McLeod, Tony Milne, Wendy Morgan, Hazel Redmond, Mark Scowen, Caydn Thomson, Anthony Turnham, John Williams, David Young 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

Contents FE ATU RE S

Built on Trust, Proven by Results.

No.1 Residential and No.1 All Divisions Bayleys Canterbury

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H I G H P O I NT Steel roofing highlights an A-frame home

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GOOD VIBES Mossy green carpet for a mid-century feel

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I N S I D E S T Y LE Being bowled over, and a colour resurgence

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R O O M S E RV I C E Italian opulence in your living room

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S H OW E R P OW E R Innovative design that’s practical and stylish

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F R O M TH E TO P Effortless access for your kitchen storage

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O N TH E S U R FAC E High-quality Spanish tiles for a luxe look

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F U N A N D F U N C TI O N A L Four ways to enhance your kitchen and bathroom

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2 0 2 5 N K B A E XC E LLE N C E I N D E S I G N AWA R D S S P E C I A L F E AT U R E : Kitchen and bathroom entry highlights

Bayleys National Auction Award Winner (3 years running)

No.1 National Growth Team Performance Award Winner

Over $850,000,000 of Property Sold

027 327 7298 ahteam.co.nz 6

52

HOME S 52

R O M A NTI C V I S I O N A charming storybook renovation

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A M O N G TH E TR E E S Trials and triumphs of a steep site

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A N I N S P I R E D R E I N V E NTI O N A rethink after Christchurch’s quakes

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TH E M AG I C TO U C H A Canterbury high country vision

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I N TH E TR E E TO P S Amid a leafy canopy in Northland

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A LL TH AT J A Z Z Bold architecture with art deco flair

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34

COLU MNS 10

TOTA L R E A LT Y The inside story

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R O U G H M I LN E M I TC H E LL Allure and prospect

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G O LD E N H O M E S Spring into action

LIFE S T YLE 96

TH E G O O D LI F E

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I N TH E K I TC H E N Spring Pea Soup

REG U L AR S 4

W E LCO M E

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TH E H O M E PAG E

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S U B S C R I B E TO abode

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INSPIRING FINDS

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S H O P W I N D OW

AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025

RRP $10.50

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025

Architecture & Craftsmanship

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS SHOWCASE

We are driven to create surfaces that make a living environment durable and look good.

We believe that when it comes to cladding and interiors, the tactile nature of plaster makes it an unrivalled product.

MASTER BUILDER Frost Architectural Builders EXTERIOR INTEGRA aac plaster facade system PLASTERING PROFESSIONAL RedRock Plastering

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

w w w. r e s e n e c o n s t r u c t i o n . c o . n z C O NST R U C T I O N PR O D U C T S

ISSUE 78

0800 50 70 40 CL A D D I N G SYST E MS

RETURN OF THE CENTURY Iconic art deco style in a bold new build

GET RICH Opulent interiors, punchy pastels and moody hues

FIND YOUR FAVOURITE Highlights from the NKBA design awards

15/08/25 8:20 AM

ON THE COVER

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Highlights from the NKBA Excellence in Design Awards include this kitchen by Sticks+Stones Design.

Photography: John Williams

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The Home Page Social comments, musings, questions and requests from our readers C THE GREEN H OUS E E FFEC T People went wild for this Christchurch home by Performance Architecture and Clive Barrington Construction when it was posted on Instagram. “Now that’s a vibe,” said one fan, and “Wow, this is perfection. Has just helped me figure out how I’m finishing our exterior,” enthused another. That’s what we’re here for, so be sure to follow Facebook @abodemagazineNZ and Instagram @abode_magazine

B CO LO U R CO H E S I O N We love getting good advice from the experts. Last issue, Anna from Anna Margaret Interior Design let us in on the secrets of finding a timeless paint colour and creating a connected look throughout your home. In this edition’s Inside Style section, from page 18, we celebrate the return of rich, bold paint colours.

E KITC HEN S A N D BAT HRO OM S At abode, we know kitchens and bathrooms are a big deal. Our columnist Rachael Kwok of the National Kitchen & Bathroom Association NZ deals out some great advice every issue, but this time we have something special.

From page 33 we highlight some of the fabulous entries in the 2025 NKBA Excellence in Design Awards.

D T WI N PE A K S Everyone loves a classic gabled roof, and this show home in Wānaka had double the fun, earning a ton of likes on Instagram and Facebook.

If you haven’t read about this project by Benchmark Homes and Lily + Forbes Interior Design, never fear, our features are always online at abodemagazine.co.nz.

While you’re there, subscribe to abode so you’ll always be in the know.

B F R ESH BEGINNINGS Farewell to Nici Wickes, who has graced abode with her delicious recipes for the past year. Did you miss one? They are all online at abodemagazine.co.nz (or in Nici’s book More From a Quiet Kitchen). This issue, turn to page 98 to welcome Wendy Morgan to the fold, with a bright Spring Pea Soup from her Comfort Cooking cookbook.

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Find us

abodemagazine.co.nz

@abodemagazineNZ

@abode_magazine

Independently Brilliant With over 40 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.

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THE INSIDE STORY Rachael Cone of Total Realty knows exactly what home purchasers are looking for when it comes to kitchens and bathrooms.

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hat do I love most about New Zealand bathrooms and kitchens?

This is a tricky question as I’ve seen such a variety of homes and styles.

However, I can say that across the board, our lovely kitchens and bathrooms are designed with everyday living in mind. They’re less about showing off and more about comfort, practicality and a bit of understated style. A bit like us Kiwis.

Let’s start with the bathroom. We mostly prefer to keep things clean and minimal, embracing soft tones, natural textures and plenty of light. You’ll often see timber vanities, stone tiles and large mirrors that keep the space feeling open and relaxed.

Underfloor heating is a favourite of mine, so cosy especially on chilly mornings, and that can’t be overstated in my opinion.

Even small bathrooms in the evergrowing two-bedroom unit market are being cleverly designed to make the most of the space. Wall-hung sinks, floating shelves and walk-in showers keep everything feeling uncluttered and easy to use.

But now to the heart of the home: the kitchen. Kiwi kitchens are still largely using the same tried-and-true formula we have seen for the past three decades: usually

open-plan, blending seamlessly with the dining and lounge areas, creating a soft, family-friendly flow that makes it easy to cook, chat and connect all at once.

When it comes to finishings and features, we are still embracing the natural and practical – think stone benchtops, soft-close drawers, plywood cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances.

Storage is usually well thought out, with pull-out pantries, deep drawers and clever corner units that maximise space and keep everything accessible. More households are now leaning toward energy-efficient appliances and lighting, which helps save on those winter power bills.

At the end of the day, most of our new bathrooms and kitchens are striking that delicate balance between comfort, practicality and ease of use – yet remaining quietly stylish with just enough flair to keep things interesting.

If all this talk about new homes has you wanting to get an appraisal on your own, please phone one of our friendly team members today. Only 1.5 per cent commission fee. We sell, you save. totalrealty.co.nz

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

Subscribe to win!

Treat 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 October 2025 and you could be the lucky winner of this faux branch arrangement from Curated Botanics.

The display of stunning genko branches makes a statement in a beautiful glazed terracotta jug. The artificial branches are very real-looking, providing impressive scale and natural movement.

Curated Botanics crafts high-end artificial floral and foliage arrangements as the perfect finishing touch for New Zealand’s best homes. It’s a collaboration between interior designer Abbey of Abbey Lang Home and her sister, Heather, who has a fine arts degree in floral sculpture. Together they offer an impeccable eye for colour, texture, form and placement. See curatedbotanics.com Only one chance to win, so go to abodemagazine.co.nz/ subscribe or scan this QR code.

One lucky abode subscriber will win a faux arrangement

by Curated Botanics valued at $449!

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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 11

ALLURE AND PROSPECT

T

he allure of a curved path, matched only by a flight of curved steps, I find inherently inviting, even seductive.

Suggestive of movement, awaiting the transfer of resting energy to kinetic, these are elements in the landscape that implore exploration.

The concealment of the full extent of your intended route, let alone your destination, can arouse and pique a sense of excitement, a sense of the unknown, a sense of prospect.

Some may find it uninviting, too, with thrill and mystery giving over to trepidation.

The fundamental role of a path, with or without steps and irrespective of its alignment, is as a connector. A nexus for civilisation, whether that be to socialise, explore, invade or trade. Maybe a route, too, for escape or simply perambulation.

Paths and steps, while their resulting form is often borne from a functional need, do present fabulous design opportunities.

They are a chance to choreograph and manipulate one’s movement and experience both horizontally and vertically through the landscape. Having recently returned from time spent in Europe, I am reminded of this.

Paths and steps that are broad, visible and with an easy “going” – the term used

Tony Milne of Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects on the fascinating draw of life’s many pathways.

to define the riser and tread ratio – are suggestive of a smooth ascent or descent.

Conversely, narrow, steep, curving steps may well evoke a sense of the unexpected, and potentially a physically tougher proposition.

In the coastal cities and towns of Croatia and southern Italy, the many paths we walked or ran, with the steps we climbed, left an indelible impression. Some were formed of stone, others of concrete or gravel.

Many seemed to cling to land’s edge, etched from the slopes that greet the sea, providing seemingly impossible access to wondrous views or hidden beaches.

Quite often these routes confounded conventional construction techniques, unshackled too from modern health and safety requirements. That also was the joy of them. Our movement at times tentative but ambulatory too, skirting craggy outcrops while flirting with the naked edge as we sought our next swimming spot in the Adriatic. The theory of risk and reward I could now understand and appreciate.

At other times our movement was relaxed, casual and languid, responding to the broad and easy nature of our chosen path. At Kew Gardens, the Great Broad

Walk at 320 metres in length and eight metres in width is purposely long, wide and inviting. A leisurely stroll can be had.

The path is defined by Flemish bricks to both sides, adjacent to which herbaceous perennial borders invite pause and ponder.

The Penstemon ‘Sour Grapes’ are somewhat more cheerful than its name suggests.

And at times we simply sat on steps. The expansive flight of steps leading to Duomo di Amalfi, Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea, from the Piazza del Duomo in Amalfi provided the perfect prospect. While suggestive of heavenly ascension, it’s a place also to perch, lick a gelato and delight in the casual observation of the foibles of human nature within the piazza.

Possibly our favourite path and steps we trod while in Croatia were undistinguished and somewhat ramshackle, but they led to a small terrace on which we sat most days with an overlook of Bacvice Beach. We would play two-handed euchre and drink local lager while secretly enjoying the plumes of cigar smoke wafting from adjacent tables. Only a short stroll home to end our day. rmmla.co.nz

TO N Y M I L N E Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects 12

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Photography © Caydn Thomson, ImageWorks

HIGH POINT ColorCote steel roofing is pivotal to the design of this 1970s A-frame house.

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ith its distinctive style, this Queenstown home was ripe for a renovation. “The clients had a clear vision for what they were trying to achieve,” says architectural designer Robbie Dick of The Habitat Design Co. “They loved the classic A-frame style and wanted to retain the character of the house.”

The house was originally built in the 1970s, and the renovation faced many challenges. Major structural modifications required engineering solutions to support the structure, Robbie explains, “We opened up the living area and added dormers.

We had to work within the restraints of the sloping A-frame roof, which made maintaining head clearance for access routes and stairs a challenge. Adding the bedrooms and garage to the ground floor

14

involved working with the existing subfloor and ground levels. During construction, the existing asbestos tile roof had to be removed before any new building work could begin.”

Choosing steel roofing for its low maintenance and aesthetic appeal on the eye-catching A-frame form, ColorCote roofing became the ideal solution. ColorCote ZinaCore was used for this project and supplied to the team at Dimond Roofing, who roll formed the Dimond LT7 in the colour Ironsand.

“We explored using tray metal roofing, however the clients preferred a product that didn’t make the house look too modern. After looking at a number of different profiles, we decided on the LT7 profile, which looks great,” says Robbie.

Collaboration and clear communication are a strong point for both The Habitat

Design Co. and Velvin Building, who have worked together across numerous projects.

The recognition and awards the project received, including the 2024 Master Builders Awards Supreme Renovation of the Year, attest to the dedication and excellence of everyone involved.

This project not only showcases outstanding design and craftsmanship but also the thoughtful design and use of materials that will stand the test of time.

The harmonious blend of old and new materials adds a timeless character to the house. Says Robbie: “This creative renovation has transformed a derelict A-frame into an iconic and enduring family home.” colorcote.co.nz

There’s no such thing as coloured steel. It’s all colour coated. That’s what makes it better.

colorcote.co.nz

GOOD VIBES Beautiful carpet available from Floorpride that offers modern resilience with a mid-century look.

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hen Tash and her partner bought their mid-century home 13 years ago, they were only the second owners, and they’ve lovingly brought it into a new era. From reimagining the conservatory as a third bedroom with an ensuite, through to honouring the original architecture, every decision has balanced style and function.

So, when it came time to choose flooring, the carpet needed to do more than just look good – it had to tie in with their existing curated palette, complement the warmth of the timber window frames and work in harmony with the lush ferns and greenery outside.

Empath, a newly released colour of Belgotex’s tried and true Westminster carpet in a calming shade of green, turned out to be a match made in heaven. While coloured carpet might seem like a bold choice on paper, it’s clear that this soft, leaf-inspired

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hue pairs perfectly with the mid-century aesthetic throughout the rest of Tash’s home.

Belgotex’s Westminster carpet not only offered a wide colour palette to choose from, but it also had the performance Tash’s family needed. With kids and pets in the mix, stainproof and fadeproof qualities weren’t just optional, they were essential. Made from premium solution dyed nylon with an impressive heavy-duty commercial rating, this carpet is designed to endure busy households without sacrificing comfort or style.

Thanks to the high-quality nylon fibre and construction, spills and stains can be easily cleaned using a mixture of bleach and water. And with an exceptional twist rate of 280 twists per metre, it has a plush, springy feel that resists matting, proving this dense and luxurious cut pile carpet is just as resilient as it is beautiful.

With a 20-year fadeproof and stainproof warranty, it’s a floor that’s built for the long haul. As Tash puts it: “The carpet is still in great condition and easy to clean despite the number of things we’ve thrown at it… including kids and dogs!”

In a home where life is full and the decor is intentional, Westminster Empath provides the perfect balance of durability and design.

Westminster carpet has been installed in homes and businesses across New Zealand for over a decade, with excellent proof of appearance retention over time.

Westminster is one of Belgotex’s premium carpets, which can be purchased from Floorpride Christchurch. The team offers a full service, from design consultation through to project completion. floorpride.com

WESTMINSTER | FROST

Floors you’ll love, whatever your style DISCOVER OUR FULL RANGE OF CARPET AND HARDFLOORING OPTIONS AT

58 Mandeville Street, Riccarton 03 348 0939 floorpride.com

Inside Style Colour advice from New Zealand’s best designers and architects

Club colours

Bowled over Pippa Burnett of Pippa Burnett Interiors, in collaboration with James Patterson from Walker Architecture, puts colour into action at Elmwood Park Bowling Club in Christchurch.

TELL US ABOUT THIS FUN PROJECT.

I had the absolute pleasure of being asked to work with Walker Architecture and their director of architecture, James Patterson, on bringing the Elmwood Park Bowling Club into its modern era with a brand new clubhouse.

Given the history of this much-loved Christchurch club, we wanted to retain the sporting essence it has long held, as well as inject some personality by using some colours it has never had before. I worked closely with James, selecting paint colours and tiles while he progressed designs for the bar joinery, entrance display and feature ceiling.

HOW HAVE YOU USED COLOUR HERE? 18

Colour is a way to define spaces and add dimension to rooms that could be seen as flat

or, dare I say, boring. This project features two club rooms that can be combined into a single, large space, or separated as needed, each retaining its own personality and functionality. Resene Black White was used on the walls of the smaller room, which is used for club days. In the bigger room, for large tournaments and gatherings, I used Resene Fuscous Grey. The bar is a huge feature that is positioned in the middle of those two areas. I wanted it to stand out without being the sole reason for members to be there – after all, they are there to play bowls! A rust-coloured mosaic finger tile was used on the curved wall bar area, adding just enough punch so as not to overpower the timber ceiling. Plus, it works well with the charcoalcoloured carpet.

Resene Black White

Resene Fuscous Grey

Resene Midwinter Mist

Resene Jurassic

WHAT’S YOUR BEST ADVICE ON MASTERING COLOURS?

Colour can be really scary, even to me.

Creating spaces that will hold their longevity, possibly for decades, is something all of us strive for. Using the environment around you is a great way to put that plan into place. For example, I knew that the enormous bowling green with its vibrant year-round colour would dictate the colours I chose for the interior. To be a bit playful, Resene Midwinter Mist and Resene Jurassic were used for the female and male bathrooms to have a little follow-through in the interiors – but not be too much of a matching bright green that it would look predictable.

When you start the design process you will always have initial ideas that are your tried-and-true colourways. What I try to do is keep one or two wild-card colours up my sleeve. I always have a voice inside my head asking me, “Can we push this boat out further? Is there any way we can make this scheme more interesting?” And using the wild-card method has worked for me.

Hot picks

WHAT ARE YOUR TRIED-AND-TRUES?

Resene Black White is a fantastic allrounder. It’s neutral and never throws an icy cold shadow. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a warmer neutral, then the Albescent White range is a good one as well.

AND ANY NEW FAVOURITES?

I am a stickler for warm, earthy tones. Brown colourways are now making space for deep plum reds like Resene Lonestar and Resene Pohutukawa. These colours remind me of my own environment at home, where I look out my window to the garden and see the Japanese maple trees – vibrant but not too bold. It’s a great balance. walkerarchitecture.co.nz

Resene Albescent White

Resene Lonestar

Resene Quarter Pohutukawa

resene.co.nz

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Project colours

A rich renaissance

Resene Blackjack

Maree Hynes of Maree Hynes Interiors is loving the recent shift towards bold, expressive tones.

WHAT’S NEW?

It’s such an exciting time in interiors, colour is making a strong comeback! At Maree Hynes Interiors we’re loving the reappearance of moody, rich tones.

There’s something so rewarding about using colour confidently on the walls, then layering in texture through curtain fabrics, wallpaper and soft furnishings. I have used Resene paints for more than 30 years.

With their incredible depth, the paints are always a pleasure to use and help us create memorable spaces for our clients.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE COLOURS RIGHT NOW? 20

I’m absolutely loving seeing the return of some all-time favourites: mossy greens,

inky navies, burnt terracottas, spicy ochres, muddy neutrals and soft mushroom tones.

These beautiful colours have echoed through interiors time and time again over my career, and it’s so inspiring to see them reimagined in fresh, modern ways. They’re timeless, grounding, and always full of character.

HOW HAVE YOU USED COLOUR IN THIS PROJECT?

At Maree Hynes Interiors, our passion is creating interiors that truly reflect the people who live in them. A home should feel personal. It should speak to who you are and offer a sense of calm the moment you walk through the door. That’s always our goal, to create spaces that feel relaxed, welcoming and deeply individual.

Resene Lemongrass

Resene Foundry

Resene Rice Cake

This project is an architecturally designed new build in Timaru, thoughtfully created for modern living. Inside, the open-plan kitchen, dining and living area is defined by soaring ceilings and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light.

Sumptuous colours and textured wallpapers add warmth and depth, creating an atmosphere that is luxurious and inviting.

The clients wanted a home that felt like a sanctuary. With their children grown and moved on, this was their time to create a space that truly reflected the next chapter of their lives: calm, refined and deeply personal. The result is a space that is not only visually striking, but also grounded in the feeling of belonging. The colours we used were Resene Blackjack, Resene Lemongrass, Resene Foundry and Resene Rice Cake.

Favourite hues

Resene Green Mist

Resene Blue Night

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR US?

Don’t be afraid to use colour, it’s one of the most powerful tools in interior design.

Think about the mood you want to create in each space. Colour has the ability to evoke emotion, define atmosphere and bring personality into your home. Look for continuity, but that doesn’t mean every room needs to be the same. Instead, choose shades that complement one another and create a cohesive flow.

WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU?

I spend a lot of time travelling and working all over the South Island, but Maree Hynes Interiors is based in Timaru in a purpose-built 400sqm space right next door to the historic Harlau House Cafe building. We’re fortunate to have a large showroom that not only offers full interior design services, but also a store selling beautiful, curated products. It’s a fantastic destination experience. mareehynesinteriors.co.nz

Resene Terracotta Hit

Resene Pirate Gold

Resene Half Pravda

Resene Quarter Heathered Grey

resene.co.nz

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Inspiring Finds New looks, design ideas and finishing touches

Marley Table Lamp in Powder Blue loftfurniture.co.nz

Baya Cassia Square Linen Cushion in Chambray inkandbrayer.co.nz

FRESH POWDER Pretty yet punchy pastels are having a moment, especially this sweet baby blue.

Meadowblooms Framed Canvas achomestore.co.nz

Charlo Jar in Blue boltofcloth.com

Bondi Hamptons 3 Seat Sofa in Slate Blue oneworldcollection.co.nz 22

Japanese Cranes Wallpaper Mural theinside.co.nz

La Marzocco Linea Mini Espresso Machine in Blue nz.lamarzoccohome.com

Arnoldino Circus Stool in Light Blue achomestore.co.nz

Bistro Folding Chair

by Fermob in Maya Blue jardin.co.nz

In The Roundhouse X Superette Plate superette.co.nz

Serax Paola Glass Fish Carafe ikoiko.co.nz

Forma 5 Drawer Tallboy in Zephyr mood.nz

Victoria Ghost Chair in Powder Blue backhousenz.com 23

Room Service Decor and styling ideas from those in the know

FOUR TIPS FOR YOUR LOUNGE FROM KIM VAN DUIVEN, ASKÖ DESIGN: CENTRE YOUR SOFA. If space allows, pull your sofa out from the wall

Italian opulence In its newest collection, Askö Design elevates the art of lounging with the Sienna modular sofa: refined yet sumptuous, sculpted in high-grade Italian leather.

The design lets you choose two modules for intimate conversation, or expand to four – incorporating an ottoman – to shape a living room tailored to your space. The clean linearity of the modules, paired with the lush colours (including this Forest Green), anchors any interior while inviting relaxed living.

The Sienna is both a centrepiece and a sanctuary, curating the experience of comfort and conversation.

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to create a cosy, more conversational seating zone. This also allows traffic to flow around instead of through the space, helping define areas and balance a high ceiling or long room. Even leaving a few centimetres behind a sofa makes the layout feel more intentional than simply pushing it against the wall.

ADD FURNISHINGS. Anchor the sofa with a rug that extends beneath

the front legs. It binds the area, even if furniture isn’t touching the walls. Soften the room with plants, lighting and your favourite pieces.

CONSIDER LIGHTING. Use lighting at various heights; include floor lamps and table lights to highlight zones and add ambience. Avoid relying solely on overhead lighting, which can feel harsh.

SKIP A COFFEE TABLE. Rather than dominate the centre with one big,

heavy coffee table, assemble a small collection of tables like the Cadiz ensemble, pictured here. Their versatility allows them to be rearranged as needed, giving your lounge flexibility and visual lightness.

askodesign.co.nz

The shower door is cut into a single sheet of glass, which at the time had never been successfully achieved, says Nathan Cadman of Empire Glass. “It was brilliant to be able to put all my experience into creating what is most likely the only shower enclosure like it in the country. A very talented team of tradespeople, from tilers to plumbers, understood the level I was working to and were happy to assist from consultation through to execution.”

SHOWER POWER An innovative shower design

by Empire Glass that’s as practical as it is stylish.

H

aving installed thousands of showers for clients over the past 20 years, Nathan Cadman poured all that experience into creating a sophisticated design for his own home.

As director of Christchurch-based Empire Glass, a full-service glazing company, Nathan says this design is unique.

A major challenge during this project was engineering the pane of glass that the door is fitted into. It has been cut into a single sheet of glass, a feat which at the time had never been successfully achieved due to the complexity of processing a piece of glass that shape.

The shower has a single tile step-down, ensuring the door sits inside the well of

WE THINK

GLASS IS BEAUTIFUL Empire Glass offers beautiful solutions to any glazing challenge.

Whether it is repairs, double glazing, frameless glass showers, balustrades, splashbacks and mirrors, or a bespoke glazing item.

the shower, preventing water egress. A clever addition is the ceiling-mounted glass splashback, to help prevent the mould and paint issues that can occur in a bathroom if ventilation is poor.

Floor-to-ceiling showers are a great way to contain the moisture, while an extractor fan inside the enclosure ensures airflow, keeping the shower from smelling damp or having mould issues.

Nathan has been delighted with the outcome of his design, so since then, he says, he’s adapted the design for a number of clients, who have all loved the results. empireglass.co.nz

empire GLASS

T 03 381 4490 E sales@empireglass.co.nz empireglass.co.nz 25

FROM THE TOP The Aventos top lift system

by Blum brings effortless functionality to your kitchen.

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I

n a kitchen, ergonomics are just as important as good looks. After all, it’s a workspace as well as a spot for family to gather and to entertain friends. People move around, and there’s often a lot going on. User-friendly functionality here means a better quality of life in many ways.

Blum’s worldwide research into kitchen use confirms that when it comes to storage, wall cabinets with lift systems are always preferable. Designed to seamlessly integrate into a wide range of kitchen and furniture configurations, Aventos top allows wall cabinet fronts to open up with a light touch, and to close softly and silently. With clean lines and unobtrusive movement, the fronts

lift up and out of the way so they can be left open while the kitchen is in use. This means that stored items can be readily accessible.

As it is constantly striving to develop its offerings, Blum set itself the challenge of completely reworking its Aventos lift systems: reducing the size, optimising the functions and adapting the design.

You can now enjoy a new feel to the design of your kitchens and living spaces with fittings from the reimagined Aventos top family.

Whether hiding appliances, creating design continuity or maximising storage, these systems are designed to meet a wide range of user needs and design preferences.

Wall cabinets come in all heights and widths

to suit storage space requirements, or can be designed to line up with the gap layout of base units.

Aventos top lift systems are diverse. No matter how large the wall cabinets are or which living area they are installed in, there’s always a suitable fittings solution. You can choose between a bi-fold, up and over, lift up or stay lift system. All the types harmonise with each other, so they are easy to combine.

And because you’ll want to see Aventos and other Blum products for yourself, there are two stunning New Zealand showrooms.

Blum’s showroom and warehouse in Avondale, Auckland, has recently been renovated to be bigger and brighter and

to offer even more facilities. The updated Blum showroom provides more space for innovative ranges that demonstrate what’s possible for your next home project. At its centre is a full-scale kitchen showcasing the latest designs and products. And the Blum espresso station provides complimentary cafe-style coffees for all visitors.

The Blum showroom in Christchurch has been similarly updated, and knowledgeable consultants are always available.

Visit the showrooms at 621 Rosebank Road in Avondale, Auckland, and 16 Avenger Crescent in Wigram, Christchurch. blum.com/nz 27

ON THE SURFACE Porcelanosa’s high-quality Spanish tiles give high-end spaces a sophisticated touch.

P

orcelanosa is the fusion of everyday practicality and European design discipline. If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom that needs to look modern for years to come, not just a season, start with surfaces that set the tone. When the brief is “simple, but flawless”, designers rely on the sophisticated texture, exquisite colour control that the newest Porcelanosa tiles offer.

Think warm limestone style with subtle movement for spa-calm bathrooms or a contemporary cement look with a fine grain for minimalist kitchens. Or richly glazed wall tiles that catch the light and add depth, and timber-inspired porcelains that deliver character without the upkeep. These tile formats are practical and design-led: rectified edges for crisp lines, large panels for

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fewer grout joins, and coordinating mosaics for shower floors and niches. Wet-area safety is also supported by anti-slip options that maintain aesthetic coherence.

One of Porcelanosa’s strengths is its consistency in shade, calibre and surface finish. So what you approve is what gets installed. Manufactured in Europe, the design language is restrained and the palettes pair easily with natural stone, engineered surfaces, timber and brass.

Because dense porcelain cleans quickly, resists staining and keeps its finish under real family use, maintenance is so easy.

That translates into smoother handovers and fewer surprises for designers on-site.

For homeowners, it’s the guarantee that long after the pictures are taken, your tiled space

will still feel thoughtful and considered.

Soft neutrals, layered whites, subtle greys and nature-inspired tones are all available for projects now, thanks to the New Zealand stock’s emphasis on colours and sizes that work well here.

Whether you’re elevating a compact ensuite or delivering a full chef’s kitchen, Porcelanosa gives you the building blocks for a quietly luxurious result. Tactile wall surfaces will glow under task lighting, floors will visually expand spaces, and feature panels have just enough movement to feel bespoke without being busy.

When the aim is understated and premium, Porcelanosa tiles are the foundation that makes the whole scheme work beautifully.

Porcelanosa tiles give a cohesive look.

Xtone Taj Mahal is on the kitchen splashback, opposite. This page, top: In the bathroom is Xlight Taj Mahal and Bottega on the walls, Ice Tanzania Nut in the shower and Bottega Caliza on the floor. Below: Xtone Alpinus White.

Xtone is another product from the Porcelanosa brand. It’s a porcelain taken to its architectural limit. These extra-large slabs have realistic veining, depth and touch. For kitchens and bathrooms that have to work hard, Xtone delivers the look of natural stone with the stability and hygiene of sintered porcelain. It’s easy to live with, non-porous, stain-resistant and heat-tolerant.

This new range is tactile. Matt finishes diffuse light and soften reflections, and are engineered to feel good with silky, honedstyle surfaces for benchtops and vanities.

This also means the colours read true. The graphic detail shows veins that taper and break naturally, while the mineral speckle adds depth. Book-matching options also allow statement islands, splashbacks and shower feature walls to appear as one continuous stone.

Designers appreciate the scale. With extra-large slabs you get expansive surfaces with minimal joins for seamless splashbacks, mitred waterfall ends and floor-to-ceiling shower walls. Precise fabrication enables integrated drain falls, shadow-line reveals and ultra-clean transitions to timber or tile.

Xtone resists lemon, wine, oil and hair dye – everyday hazards that can mark natural stone – without sealing.

The palette balances calm and character, such as warm marble-inspired tones for timeless kitchens, sumptuous browns with fine veining for contemporary bathrooms, and expressive stones for feature islands.

Pair the subtle textures with timber and brushed metals for softness, or set bolder stones against matt black for drama.

For homeowners, the benefit is straightforward: luxury you can really use.

Put down a hot roasting pan; wipe up spills.

For professionals, it means specification confidence for creative freedom with repeatable colour, consistent slab geometry and reliable lead times.

Run a hand across the surface and you’ll get it. Xtone feels composed and substantial.

If the brief is for a kitchen or bathroom that feels custom and performs under real-world conditions, start here.

See the Porcelanosa and Xtone New Zealand ranges in person and test and compare your sample finishes under natural light. For project advice, samples, fabrication options and local stock availability, visit the website. porcelanosa.co.nz 29

CThe Gaggenau Expressive series, inspired by Bauhaus principles and minimalist modern architecture, showcases bold, sculptural forms. “Two frames, one circle, a piece of art.” Each appliance in the new series is crafted through a blend of advanced technology and hands-on expertise from skilled artisans. Available in New Zealand from October 2025. gaggenau.co.nz

FUN AND FUNCTIONAL

BItalian manufacturer Zucchetti makes high-end kitchen and bathroom fixtures and is known for its innovative designs and quality materials – such as the Zucchetti Pan S 3-Tap Hole Wall Mounted Basin Mixer in Pearl Cipria. The organic aesthetic and functionality of the Pan range combine in seamless forms, conveying a sense of perfection and natural harmony. robertson.co.nz

Wonderful ways to get the best out of your kitchen and bathroom, the most important rooms in the house.

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BElevate your kitchen with the Lemon Myrtle & Honeydew Duo from Al.ive, featuring a refreshing bench spray and nourishing wand wash, all presented in a sleek custom tray. It’s a natural cleaning product with antibacterial properties and a delightful aroma. Clean, care and delight in everyday moments.

BMade in New Zealand, for New Zealand. Melteca melamine panels have over 90 curated decors suited for all types of homes in Aotearoa. Melamine panels are highly durable, low maintenance and easy to clean, making them perfect for your kitchen cabinetry, vanity, wardrobes, wall linings and furniture.

To see the range, visit the website.

anyexcuse.co.nz

laminex.co.nz

Fresh on the inside, sleek on the outside Behold the ECBN 8872 Fridge-Freezer with its magnificent French doors. They open up unlimited possibilities for storing large quantities of food in ideal conditions. Discover more: home.liebherr.com

Distributed by:

The natural choice for beautiful tiles

13 Mandeville St Christchurch naturallytiles.co.nz

2025 NKBA Excellence in Design Awards “The quality of design and workmanship displayed by the 2025 Excellence in Design Awards entrants is simply outstanding.

These talented designers have shown an exceptional ability to add value to a home, not just in terms of real estate, but they have also mastered the art of creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful, crafting environments that people genuinely want to be in.

It's truly inspiring to witness the dedication and passion that these designers bring to their craft.”

Rachael Kwok Executive Officer of National Kitchen & Bathroom Association NZ

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2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

This is a new, architecturally designed home for a professional couple craving a laidback retreat from the city. The interior designer’s philosophy was based on Japanese principles of wabi-sabi, using aged and rustic materials to evoke a sense of peace. The open plan kitchen needed to blend perfectly with this aesthetic, have impact but not dominate, be practical for family and guests, and have connection to the outdoors.

Kira Gray of Fyfe Kitchens in Auckland created a scullery to free up the main kitchen, where, above the bench, a mix of black-framed shelving and tinted-glass cabinets are a visual feature, as is the bar area.

Another highlight is the linear island bench that seemingly continuously flows through to a fully waterproof stone-clad servery on the exterior. Throughout, task and ambient lighting make this kitchen come alive at night for entertaining. fyfekitchens.co.nz 34

Photography © Kallan Macleod

Magical Retreat – WINNER, SUPREME KITCHEN DESIGN AWARD

Photography © Mark Scowen

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Structured Serenity – WINNER, SUPREME BATHROOM DESIGN AWARD “Our clients purchased an industrial style, two-storey penthouse apartment as an Auckland base, and while the fit-out was tired, there was potential for it to be something special,” says Nicola Manning of Nicola Manning Design.

Two bedrooms and two ensuites were converted into one spacious master suite with access to the large ensuite from both the walk-in robe and bedroom.

A largely monochromatic scheme was specified, with the exposed steel beams painted black. Light grey wall tiles create a spacious feel, and black floor tiles balance the strength of the beams. Bosco Black tiles on the feature wall introduce scale and movement, and are also used as the custom designed vanity top.

The radius on the steel-framed mirror cabinets and the round bath offer contrast to the sharp architectural features. To bring a sense of luxury and texture, the space is further softened with a sheer drape. nmdesign.co.nz

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Photography © Anthony Turnham

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Whispering Curves The brief called for a lower-maintenance kitchen for a second home for a growing family. As big entertainers, a hidden clean-up zone was on the wish-list, as well as easy access to a large vegetable patch.

The design by Larissa Breukelaar of Modern Age Kitchens and Joinery in Christchurch incorporates a walk-through scullery that leads outside to the garden.

That storage zone means the island in the main kitchen can be maximised for seating. A small sink on the end leaves the benchtop clear yet is handy while cooking, and the unique shape of the island allows interesting, organic shapes to be seen from any angle.

A light and bright yet calm atmosphere comes via thoughtful material choices. White cabinetry is paired with the warmth of charred walnut, and tactile Dekton evokes a sense of nature. Minimal hardware and open shelves complete the airy feel. modernagekitchens.co.nz

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2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

“A summer Spanish beach house” was the brief for this entertainers’ kitchen in a Waikato family home. Textural layering of natural materials – timber veneer, recycled European oak, travertine and Charleston limestone – and a mix of soft curves and linear forms evoke that summery Mediterranean feel.

Durable stainless-steel benchtops are used in work zones for easy maintenance, says Jenny Holmes of Designmarked Kitchens, and the expansive travertine island with integrated dining serves as a hub for entertaining. For added functionality a scullery was created by removing an adjacent laundry wall. Stone pillars optimise ergonomic benchtop heights for the sink and hob, creating visual interest and adding balance.

This kitchen is a thoughtful fusion of beauty and function, designed to blend seamlessly with the home’s renovation and coastal environment while providing an efficient, visually striking and serene space for both cooking and socialising. designmarked.co.nz 38

Photography © John Williams

Casa de Playa de Verano

Photography © Jamie Cobel

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Far North This kitchen was designed for a couple building their dream home on a Far North bush-clad site with expansive harbour views. Shane George of Shane George Design was engaged after the architectural design had been completed, with the footprint already established. “My role was to interpret the client’s detailed brief into a fully resolved kitchen and scullery design that delivered seamless integration with the home’s architectural language.”

Shane worked closely with the clients to establish a layout that ensured workflow clarity, generous bench space and visual balance.

Materiality was central to the design’s success.

In collaboration with a colour expert, a palette was developed including warm oak, charcoal cabinetry and veined stone benchtops that reference the surrounding native bush and soften the architectural form.

The result is a dual-kitchen solution that elevates the everyday rituals of cooking, gathering and entertaining. shanegeorgedesign.co.nz

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Photography © Hazel Redmond

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Parma Grey Perfection This kitchen renovation by designer Trudi Rabbitte of Rabbitte Joinery in Hawke’s Bay caters to a working couple in their heritage-style home. From the outset, the client selected Aalto Parma Grey, setting the colour scheme for the design.

To enhance the timeless aesthetic, Trudi introduced brass accents throughout, creating a warm and sophisticated contrast against the soft grey cabinetry.

The splashback features textured tiles to add depth and interest, and the cabinetry follows a classic shaker style but with a refined approach.

“Functionality was a key driver in the design. Both clients are tall, so we raised the benchtop height for improved ergonomics. Storage was carefully planned, incorporating benchtop bi-fold pantries on either side of the cooktop. And antique mirrored panels were integrated into the cabinetry to tie in the stainless steel ovens and fridge, ensuring a cohesive material palette.”

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rabbittejoinery.co.nz

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

West Coast Lights On the remote West Coast of the South Island is a family with three daughters, all in their teens. “The girls enjoy making coffee – it’s a bit of a ritual,” says Katie Scott of Sticks+Stones Design. “And my client loves to cook, but doesn’t like the mess.” As part of an extensive renovation and a new addition, the family wanted a light, open space with a warm, inviting feel.

“We used a very simple palette of light oak and natural stone elements, together with off-white cabinetry, complemented by textured, reeded panelling and lots of subtle feature lighting. We also added a skylight to bring in natural light.”

A pocket door in the same oak finish hides a scullery, which holds the all-important coffee station, and a large arch over the bar area gives the space flow and personality.

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Photography © John Williams

sticksstonesdesign.co.nz

Photography © John Williams

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Rainforest Retreat Nestled into a lush rainforest, this kitchen renovation avoids the standard white and stainless steel and instead invites the outside in with a vivid peacock green.

The island is intentionally appliance-free, serving as a sculptural centrepiece. It is generously proportioned and angular, its distinctive geometry embracing the complex ceiling heights and angled walls and transforming them into defining architectural features that contribute to the kitchen’s bold personality.

Distinct cabinetry zones reflect a thoughtful design hierarchy: dark green defines the tall cabinetry and island, while lighter green adorns rear cabinetry, adding layered sophistication and visual intrigue. Strategic combinations of patterned porcelain and understated quartz demonstrate careful attention to detail.

Says designer Natalie Du Bois of Du Bois Design in Auckland: “This kitchen exemplifies purposeful, expressive design; beautifully embracing spatial constraints, enhancing daily functionality, and authentically reflecting its verdant rainforest context.” duboisdesign.co.nz

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2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

In this Southland holiday home, this room had to function both as a powder room for visitors and as the bathroom for the guest bedroom. The homeowners wanted it to be comfortably used by two people at once, but also be private from the busy hallway.

And the brief was for a beautiful and spa-like feel.

To achieve this wish-list, Carmen Hubber of Hub Design selected a soft, colourful tile for the large entrance wall. This striking feature extends to the ceiling, maximising the height, creating a dramatic focal point and making the room feel more intimate.

Textured elements add warmth and interest, and the vanity was designed to avoid clutter.

The large mirror reflects the beautiful feature tile and integrates both soft and task lighting, and the bath brings a soft curved corner. Aged bronze tapware completes the cohesive, inviting atmosphere. hubdesign.nz 44

Photography © John Williams

Holiday Haven

Photography © SJH Design

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Moody Sanctuary The curved wall is king when it comes to this bathroom renovation in a family home in Christchurch. “Sarah Harding of Spaces Ink Design, has created such an elegant solution to my functional needs for access and space,” says the homeowner. “As a lover of natural forms, I delight that there are no hard edges in this bathroom, in the organic references and in the play of light and mystery in the tiles.”

The intensity of the curve called for small finger tiles, which contrasts with larger format floor tiles to ground the space. Vertical heated towel rails cleverly hug the curves of the wall, in a gunmetal finish to complete the scheme. To reflect light and add drama to this moody sanctuary, high-gloss tiles dance across the shower and vanity walls. The result is both sumptuous and practical. spacesink.co.nz

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2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

NKBA Designer Showcase Rebecca Bailey Design Rebecca Bailey Design is a multiaward-winning interior design studio based in Auckland, and servicing residential spaces in spatial planning, kitchens, bathrooms and custom cabinetry design.

Sustainability is at the forefront of our creative process – we believe that ethical design should be prioritised wherever possible without compromising the overall design. Maia ki the kia rerekē.

rebeccabaileydesign.co.nz

Anna Margaret Interior Design Anna Margaret Interior Design has a very clear design philosophy: ‘How do you want to be in your spaces?’ This simple question will take us on a carefully considered and enjoyable journey. Our experience and sensibilities ensure you’ll feel completely in control of your journey. Reach out to the Christchurch-based team to share your design goals and ideas.

annamargaret.co.nz

Modi Interior Design Where every detail is personal.

At Modi Interior Design, every project is about creating fresh, new spaces that reflect who you are. From bespoke interiors to custom-designed furniture, they deliver inspired interiors that are truly yours. Based in Christchurch, Modi Interior Design offers a tailored approach from concept to completion, and the results speak for themselves.

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modidesign.co.nz

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Eternodesign Based in Christchurch, Eternodesign is an award-winning interior architecture design studio specialising in residential and commercial projects. With impeccable style, their designs enhance any interior with a personalised aesthetic that embraces the practicalities of daily life. Tailored design services range from kitchens and bathrooms to a full interior and soft furnishings package.

eternodesign.co.nz

Spaces Ink Design For professionals and visionaries, Spaces Ink Design is the interior design studio that turns your vision into reality.

We create bespoke interiors that are unique to each individual, so you can enjoy a space that resonates with your personality and lifestyle. We value the needs and style of our clients, as well as respecting their choice to work with us.

spacesink.co.nz

Colleen Holder Design The challenge of creating fresh new spaces is what inspires me the most. My design philosophy comes with a passion for crafting beautiful spaces that reflect your individuality and lifestyle, because your home is your haven. With a hands-on approach, I will guide you on your journey towards reimagining any room as inviting, comfortable and functional.

colleenholderdesign.co.nz

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Photography © Toni Gale

2025 NKBA – Excellence in Design Awards

Beyond the Curve Designer Nichole Davis of Fresh by Design Interiors in Hawke’s Bay calls this style art deco with a streamline moderne twist. It’s a bathroom that’s full of personality while honouring the home’s 1930s origins.

Spatially, a new wall solves three problems: hides the toilet, holds a wall-hung vanity on a hero backdrop, and frames a walk-through shower. The vanity’s sweeping radius repeats the curves of the shower, mirror and floor edge, erasing corners and visually stretching depth.

To avoid overpowering the small space, colour was limited to one strong hue on the wall, where the ribbed tiles deliver interesting shadow-play and were installed with no cuts. The vanity was carefully templated around the tiling. Mist-green marble wraps the rest of the room.

Millimetre-tight craftsmanship turned a modest space into a tactile retreat, delivering high-end luxury in a compact footprint.

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fbdinteriors.co.nz

DESIGN WITH CONFIDENCE. DESIGN WITH HETTICH.

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HOMES Up and down the motu, these homes are a visual feast – bold in ideas, rich in character, and each with a story worth telling.

Art deco flair in a glamorous Christchurch build, page 88.

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Romantic vision For W2 Architecture x Structural Engineering and Matt Harrison Construction, this earthquake-damaged home became an opportunity to create something extraordinary in the heart of Otautahi Christchurch.

WORDS KATHY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY JAMIE ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY

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The exterior cladding uses Rockcote Resene Construction Systems and was installed by TK Plastering, completing the stylish, solid exterior to the home renovation.

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The benchtop by Granite Benchtop Company is a Blue Dunes granite, a natural stone showcasing a harmonious blend of blue, beige and grey tones, each slab uniquely adorned with intricate veining and patterns for a modern elegance.

Award winning kitchens & joinery crafted by master joiners Experts in kitchen joinery and custom interiors, our Christchurch joiners bring precision, style, and functionality to every space we create.

03 352 3457 54

admin@finessejoinery.co.nz

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T

he homeowners of this expansive 1990s property are no strangers to renovating. Isabelle Weston, daughter of famed mechanical engineer John Britten, and her husband Tim Weston completed an extensive renovation of her grand childhood home Britten Stables back in 2018. They have an eye for potential.

“While some viewed this old luxury home as a daunting challenge with its earthquake damage, colourful walls and vivid blue carpet, we envisioned it as a unique chance to blend its nostalgic essence with contemporary style, creating a haven right at the heart of the city,” says Isabelle.

The dream here was to create a family-friendly oasis of calm. “This property is more than just a house,” says Isabelle. “It was always about creating a feeling for our family. The previous owners had loved the home and made many memories here. Our renovations aimed to start our chapter at Millstream and build on those past memories.”

When they initially saw the property on the market, the couple sought professional advice from W2 Architecture x Structural Engineering. Structural engineer Stuart Winterbourn, director at W2, was happy to take a look.

“Izzy and Tim were looking to buy this 895sqm property, which had some earthquake damage,” explains Stuart. “And we ultimately became responsible for designing the transformed space. What started as a simple assessment – could the damage be fixed? – evolved into a complete reimagining of how the home could live and breathe.”

Most of the home was in good order. “The original house was grand, but it was made up of rooms that weren’t particularly well connected for family living and entertaining,” Stuart says. “The homeowners saw an opportunity that others had perhaps overlooked.”

The design brief for the architecture and engineering firm focused on preserving the original charm of the 1990s-era home while infusing it with resort-style elegance and comfort. Says Isabelle: “It was important that every inch of the 895sqm reflected both warmth and functionality, featuring highlights like an outdoor terrace, a pool house and intricate interior detailing.”

All kitchen joinery was installed by Finesse Joinery, creating a modern Mediterranean-style kitchen that’s perfect for cosy family mealtimes as well as lavish dinner parties.

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The most significantly damaged section was a connecting room between the kitchen and swimming pool, which served as a link in the home’s flow. Rather than attempting costly repairs to this section, the team at W2 proposed something radical: complete removal.

“The structural theory was, rather than trying to fix this damage, why don’t we just get rid of it?” Stuart says.

This bold decision would prove transformative, creating what became the key feature of the renovation: a stunning atrium space that now serves as the heart of the home.

The removal of the damaged wing achieved multiple design objectives. It flooded the kitchen with natural light and created an interactive outdoor living space that seamlessly connects to the kitchen hub. The result is a dramatic internal courtyard where the damaged room once stood, complete with architectural arches, built-in seating, and lush plantings. Through this reimagining, the renovation created both formal and informal living spaces, crucial for busy family life.

Curved features throughout the home provide a uniqueness and a charm – for example, the curved tiled spa and seating area beneath the arches, which draws its inspiration from W2 architectural director Matt Wilkie’s visit to a natural spring in Mexico.

The result is very much a charismatic and nostalgic retreat, with an effortless flow between indoor and outdoor.

Matt Harrison of Matt Harrison Construction was entrusted with the transformation.

“We were engaged to bring the vision to life,” says Matt. “All while maintaining its original magic.”

An extraordinary level of craftsmanship defined every stage of the construction process – from the precision-carved timber arch windows, designed to mirror those of the existing pool house, to the breathtaking realisation of architectural renderings.

“Countless hours were poured into transforming the vision into a tangible masterpiece,” says Matt. “A perfect example of this dedication is the custom curved spa bath, seamlessly integrated with a stunning glazed roofing system that evokes the feel of a refined glasshouse.”

These aren’t features found in just any home.

Every painstaking decision, every intricate detail, was a pursuit of perfection – and the result is nothing short of spectacular.

A magnificent snooker table that once belonged to John Britten himself now anchors the games room, where Isabelle and Tim added a stylish bar to create another entertaining space. This blend of heritage and contemporary living reflects the overall project philosophy.

The luxurious bedheads through the home are by Wink Design, specialists in creating custom made bedheads, cushions, lampshades and more, with sustainability in mind.

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The PSP ClearVue Roofing on the home makes the most of the natural light. With custom brackets and gutters, it was installed by Hawkins Built Ltd.

Other highlights include the outdoor terrace complete with a fireplace, a pool house, spa bath and sauna. Inside, carefully curated details such as the mosaic tiling give a nod to the heritage, while introducing elegance and texture. A soft neutral palette, abundant natural light and lush interior gardens create an atmosphere of calm and cohesion.

Isabelle worked closely with W2 on the interior design to achieve her vision, while Tim managed the project and helped with labouring. “This personal investment has given us a deeper connection and appreciation in transforming this home into a sanctuary,” says Isabelle. “Styling and interiors has always sparked an interest for me. I enjoy mixing together textures, colours and shapes to make things both aesthetically pleasing and functional.”

The tiling throughout was completed by Roma Tiling Ltd, with the updating of the original home requiring a precise installation.

M 0274 649 444 E info@hawkinsbuilt.co.nz hawkinsbuilt

New builds Renovations Hard landscaping

Proud installers of the PSP ClearVue custom system on this project 57

“Some of our favourite features include the seamless interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces, especially the outdoor terrace with its fireplace and the luxurious spa elements,” she says. “Inside, we love the kitchen, as it’s an incredible space for our family to come together.

The warm timber finishes coupled with leathered stone benchtop and brass accents add a touch of heritage, while providing a warmth to the space.”

The finished home works on multiple levels – as an impressive entertaining space and an opening up of a collection of disconnected rooms, all while remaining intimate enough for quiet family moments.

The year-long journey from initial assessment to completion demonstrates how thoughtful engineering and architectural inspiration can transform disaster into design triumph.

“Working with W2 Architects and Structural Engineering, along with Matt Harrison Construction, was a collaborative journey,” says Isabelle. “Their expertise and commitment brought our vision to life, transforming our home into a balance of classic charm and modern luxury. Their dedication to the intricate details made all the difference to our renovation experience at Millstream.”

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Brickworks supplied the Genoa Bricks on the outdoor fireplace and built-in outdoor bar, giving a solid and relaxed feel to this area of the outdoors.

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Involved in this project ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER W2 Limited 03 366 0966 w2.nz STRUCTURAL ENGINEER W2 Limited 03 366 0966 w2.nz BUILDER Matt Harrison Construction Ltd 021 716 943 mhcltd.co.nz TILER AND TILE SUPPLIER Roma Tiling 027 611 5422 romatiling.co.nz DRIVEWAY & HARD LANDSCAPING DiggersNZ 03 381 1200 diggersnz.com LOUVRES Louvre Solutions 027 535 6286 louvresolutions.co.nz EXTERIOR PLASTER CLADDING Resene Construction Systems TK Plastering 027 840 0033 tkplastering.co.nz KITCHEN JOINERY Finesse Joinery 03 352 3457 finessejoinery.co.nz PSP CLEAR VUE ROOFING Hawkins Built Ltd 027 464 9444 ELECTRICAL NC Electrical 022 531 6325 ncelectrical.co.nz GRANITE BENCHTOP Granite Benchtop Company 03 338 4848 gbcsouth.co.nz BESPOKE BEDHEADS & ACCESSORIES Wink Design 021 455 317 winkdesign.co.nz This fully automated louvre roof was custom designed and built by Louvre Solutions. Engineered for all-weather performance, the system features motorised aluminium blades with rain sensors, integrated LED strip lighting and an architectural finish that complements the home’s modern style as well as offering the family year-round comfort and indoor-outdoor flow.

FIREPLACE BRICKS Brickworks 0800 287 8725 brickworks.co.nz

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Among the trees When the Christchurch earthquakes irreparably damaged their home, these homeowners turned to Archco Architecture and Ross Bailey Builders to create something new.

Drone photography © Adam Hodgson

WORDS KATHY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHEN GOODENOUGH

A

fter 40 years on the same hillside property in ˉ Scarborough, Otautahi Christchurch, Simon and Robyn thought they’d seen it all. They’d raised a family, built a driveway on pillars that became one of the first of its kind in the area, and cultivated a garden filled with mature native plantings and a stately oak tree. Then the Christchurch earthquakes struck, reducing their two-storey weatherboard home to an insurance write-off.

“The house was basically wrecked,” says Simon.

What followed was a frustrating battle with insurance companies that lasted several years before they finally got the green light to rebuild. But rather than simply replace what was lost, Simon and Robyn saw an opportunity to create something better: a home that would honour their established garden while preparing them for the future.

The couple engaged architectural designer Gareth Ritchie from Archco Architecture through a family recommendation – Gareth had previously designed a home for the couple’s son-in-law. The brief was deceptively simple yet profoundly challenging: “Bring the outside in,” says Simon. “We wanted to incorporate all the trees in the garden.”

This wasn’t just about aesthetics, though. After four decades of careful cultivation, the property boasts spectacular mature plantings, including the oak tree at the front and a palm tree that Simon had planted himself 40 years ago. “The whole front of the house fits in with all the trees,” he notes. “It’s one of the few properties that’s a rebuild where it looks like the garden has been here forever.”

Gareth embraced the challenge of a steep site and existing garden wholeheartedly.

“It was interesting to be doing something for someone who’d had the site for such a long time,” he says. “The design process became a careful dance around the existing landscape, with the new house slightly pivoted to the north to capture the views while preserving every significant tree.”

But the real design and engineering marvel lay in the construction itself. Perched dramatically on Scarborough’s steep hillside, the 210sqm home presented access challenges that would make most builders break into a cold sweat. “Getting products and materials up here was pretty tricky,” Simon admits.

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The solution? Helicopters. Over the course of a single morning, a larger helicopter completed 22 lifts, carrying everything from massive steel portals to sheets of plywood from the top of the driveway to the building platform. “It was quite tricky because of these huge steel beams swinging around, and all these guys on the ground,” Simon recalls. “It was an interesting time.”

At the helm of the construction side of the project was Ross Bailey from Ross Bailey Builders. Describing the helicopter day as “next level”, Ross says his nerve was tested that day, as a builder.

“And that wasn’t the only challenge of this build,” says Ross. “Even before that, the excavation proved problematic due to the steep section and limited access.

Pouring the foundation was another challenge, again due to the steep site, but it was a great experience to push the boundaries and build something spectacular for Simon and Robyn.”

The result is a mid-century modern home that seems to float effortlessly among the treetops. The clean lines of the Japanese weatherboard product rarely seen in New Zealand (BGC Innova Montage Grey Oak Pre-finished fibre cement facade system) create a sophisticated backdrop for the extensive use of bamboo throughout the interior and exterior decking. “We’ve always liked mid-century style furniture,” Simon says. “And we incorporated bamboo ceilings downstairs which gives that mid-century look as well.”

While the architectural framework was taking shape, Simon and Robyn brought in interior designer Jane Swinard from Jane Swinard Design to help refine their vision. Meeting with the couple when their plans were at the consent stage, the designer was immediately drawn to their passion.

“I was familiar with their stunning site and they spoke at length about their love of mid-century design and furniture,” Jane says. “This was something I easily connected with.”

The collaboration proved invaluable in navigating the unique challenges of the coastal location. “This is obviously a very high sea spray zone and so they were restricted to a more limited range of materials if they wanted the exterior to have longevity and be low maintenance,” Jane says. “We had to get creative with these choices at times.” While Simon and Robyn already had definite ideas about materials like bamboo, stone and concrete, Jane helped them with colour, texture and placement decisions that would create a cohesive whole.

The underfloor heating was laid into the foundation of the home and uses hot water heat pump technology, provided by Warmth.NZ.

The polished concrete flooring system is Husqvarna SUPERFLOOR Gold, applied by Concrete Sealing and Grinding NZ, as the certified applicators.

MULTIPLE CANTERBURY LOCATIONS

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• • • • •

Floor Polishing Concrete Grinding Epoxy Coating Repairs Finishes 63

Bamboo X-treme decking from Plantation Bamboo was used extensively on several levels of the home, including the hot tub deck at the top of the site. Compressed bamboo flooring in Coffee colour was also used in innovative ways on the ceilings and soffits, plus bamboo panels were used for cupboards, bedheads, bedside cabinets, vanity unit, and the upstand around the breakfast bar.

The next generation in sustainable building products For FREE samples and more information visit plantationbamboo.co.nz 027 338 8220 | ingrid@plantationbamboo.co.nz 64

Inside, polished concrete floors with underfloor heating create a solid base for an extensive living/ dining/kitchen space. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame both distant views of the Kaikōura Ranges and nearby views of Sumner, and intimate glimpses of the natural rock face behind the house – an unusual design feature that Gareth describes as “picture frame windows capturing glimpses of just the rock”.

The home’s most forward-thinking feature might be its accessibility planning. Recognising that they wanted to age in place, Simon and Robyn included two lifts. The first travels from the garage level up to the main living areas, while a second provides access to the three bedrooms on the upper floor. “The idea is to make the house futureproofed for retirement and old age,” says Simon.

The upper level opens onto generous decks and terraces, including a top-level spa area that’s completely unobstructed. A stone fireplace anchors the main living space, incorporating stone salvaged from the original house and crafted by a local stonemason. “We kept the stone from the previous property,” Simon says, another thoughtful connection to the home’s history.

The interior design process became about harmonising diverse materials and textures while preparing the perfect backdrop for the couple’s prized possessions. Jane says, “The icing on the cake was always going to be their collection of mid-century furniture and accessories and it was important that all other finishes enhanced these carefully curated items.”

BNA Tiling installed the tiles in the bathrooms and kitchen with precision, ensuring modern clean lines and highlighting the mid-century aesthetic.

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Suckling Stringer Quantity Surveyors provided detailed cost planning, value engineering input and monthly progress valuations, giving the architectural designer, engineer and homeowners confidence in managing project budgets throughout the build.

Involved in this project ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER Archco Architecture 03 928 3983 archco.co.nz BUILDER Ross Bailey Builder Ltd 027 436 4255 rossbaileybuilders.co.nz INTERIOR DESIGNER Jane Swinard Design 027 431 7885 governorsbay.nz/jane-swinard-design BATHROOM TILES & KITCHEN SPLASHBACKS Nextdore Interiors 03 366 9400 nextdore.co.nz

Working with builder Ross Bailey, whom Simon praises for having “a fantastic crew”, the project came together without major hitches despite its complexity.

“Nothing was a problem,” Simon says of Ross, foreman Glenn and the construction team. “And Gareth was the same. He’s a creative designer – you can see that in the lines that he’s created here.”

For Gareth and Ross, the project stands out as particularly rewarding. “It was a fun project,” says Gareth, while Ross says he’s very proud of the finished product. The collaboration between architectural designer, interior designer, builder and homeowners who truly understood their site created something special – a home that looks as though it has always belonged among the trees.

Today, the mature garden continues to thrive around Simon and Robyn. The new house has found its place so naturally among the established plantings that visitors might assume it’s always been there – exactly as they’d hoped. Sometimes the best rebuilds aren’t about replacing what was lost, but about imagining what could be.

m: 027 436 4255 66

INTERIOR BAMBOO PANELS & DECKING Plantation Bamboo 027 3388 220 plantationbamboo.co.nz UNDERFLOOR HEATING Warmth.NZ 0800 477 778 warmth.nz TILING BNA Tiling Ltd 022 192 0167 QUANTITY SURVEYOR Suckling Stringer Quantity Surveyors 03 348 3434 sucklingstringer.co.nz CONCRETE POLISHED FLOOR Concrete Sealing and Grinding NZ 0800 765 474 concretesealing.co.nz

e: ross@rossbaileybuilder.co.nz | rossbaileybuilder.co.nz

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An inspired reinvention This couple chose transformation over demolition after the Christchurch earthquakes, thanks to the input of Jim the Builder and NV Design Architecture.

WORDS KATHY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY ANNA MCLEOD

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or Andrew and Penny, originally from South Africa, coming to New Zealand had been the start of a new life for them. They settled in Whakaraupō Lyttelton in July 2009, having quickly found a place on the hill to call home. Sadly, the Christchurch earthquakes a year and a half later turned their unique fan-shaped dream home into a damaged shell.

But sometimes, destruction paves the way for something even better.

“We quickly came to love Whakaraupō after the flat of Johannesburg,” says Penny. “In fact, we found this house within two weeks of arriving. It just felt like home.

So when the earthquakes struck, we knew we still wanted to stay here.”

Built in 2000, this 193sqm multi-level home perched high above Lyttelton had already captured their hearts with its sweeping harbour views and innovative architecture. The home’s unusual design made it a standout in the neighbourhood. However, the extensive earthquake damage forced a complete rethink of the structure.

The painting of the exterior panels that mimic weathering steel, as well as all the interior painting, was completed

by Chamlang Plasterers and Painters.

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Every aspect of the home was affected. Water had infiltrated through compromised cladding systems, walls were no longer straight, and there were rotting sections of the timber framing. The old direct-fixed corrugated zincalume cladding and monolithic fibre cement sheeting had failed, and the single-glazed skylights and aluminium joinery were no longer fit for purpose. Arguably it could have been a demolition job, but instead became an opportunity for transformation.

“We decided to rebuild it from the framing back up,” says Andrew. “It’s been gutted and we have started all over again, basically.”

The couple were given a list of builders to choose from by the Greater Christchurch Claims Resolution Service, and they picked Jim the Builder Ltd. “Our neighbours had recommended them as they had also built their place,” says Penny. “And we soon became very grateful for our choice; Jim the Builder are experts in the ins and outs of earthquake rebuilds and experts at building on a hill.

They were so helpful. We never felt worried or pressured when working with the team at Jim the Builder.”

The couple were also delighted to work with Nigel Allan, architectural designer at NV Design Architecture, who the builders recommended. Nigel developed a comprehensive repair plan that went far beyond simple restoration. “Nigel had some great ideas, and really understood our requirements.”

Says Nigel: “The goal was not just to repair the house but bring it up to a modern building codecompliant standard and make it comfortable for the owners to enjoy.”

The renovation embraced the original brief of like-for-like replacement while significantly upgrading its performance. The old corrugated zincalume was replaced with Colorsteel on a vented cavity system, and the failed monolithic cladding gave way to the sophisticated Rockcote Integra panel and plaster system, also featuring a 20mm vented cavity for improved weatherproofing and thermal performance.

The large S1 suite thermally broken sliding doors with 1.1 Low E glass, provided by Nulook Canterbury, open up the view and provide easy access to the expansive deck. The Uro Beech reveals add a warm look from the inside.

New Homes Additions Alterations

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The flooring is Native Miro Timber from Timbers of New Zealand.

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timbers.co.nz 71

A passion for painting

chamlang.co.nz 72

One of the most striking design decisions involved the feature cladding on the south elevation. Where cedar shiplap once weathered against the elements, James Hardie Axon panels now showcase a stunning paint finish that mimics weathering steel, applied by Chamlang Plasterers and Painters. This same treatment was applied to vertical cladding, creating a cohesive aesthetic that speaks to the homeowners’ love of natural earthy tones, which complement the backdrop of the surrounding Port Hills.

The interior transformation was equally dramatic.

The removal of the old framed stairwell made way for an elegant glass balustrade that has opened up the entrance way and allows more light to flood into the central space.

New thermally broken double-glazed skylights replaced the old single-glazed units, dramatically improving both thermal performance and natural light quality. The original kitchen was carefully removed, stored during construction, and reinstalled upon completion.

The challenges from a construction point of view were numerous. Beyond the structural complexities of the fan-shaped, multi-level design, the house’s predominantly south-facing orientation required careful consideration of thermal performance and natural light. For example, the ensuite bathroom, with its low raking ceiling and angled exterior wall, needed creative solutions that the homeowners then enhanced with beautiful tiles and fixtures.

“It’s been a lengthy process from earthquakes, to redesign, to rebuild,” says Jim Stenberg, company director at Jim the Builder. “We see ourselves as a one-stop shop for our clients. We handle all the liaison with the insurance company, the council, the suppliers and the designer. We are very transparent about our pricing, and our monthly billing model means that customers feel more in control of the process.”

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Involved in this project BUILDER Jim the Builder 03 974 1290 jimthebuilder.co.nz ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER NV Design Architecture 027 384 8283 nvdesign.nz EXTERIOR PLASTER CLADDING Resene Construction Systems Properly Plastered 021 221 0282 properlyplastered.co.nz WINDOWS & DOORS Nulook Canterbury 03 389 6466 nuwindows.co.nz PAINTER Chamlang Plasterers and Painters 03 365 4499 chamlang.co.nz TIMBER FLOORING Timbers of New Zealand 03 365 3253 timbers.co.nz

The cladding on this home is a Resene Rockcote Integra render cladding, installed by Properly Plastered and giving a solid and sleek finish to the home.

It’s clearly a model that works, as the homeowners are delighted with how collaborative and open the builder and designer were. “Nigel and Jim the Builder have been incredibly collaborative. They both had good ideas, and have certainly created a home that we are really happy with,” says Andrew. “The finished home feels solid and is very light and very comfortable. It was particularly great to have Sam the foreman from Jim the Builder with us on the job for the duration of the project, and to have the same crew of workers assigned to our build. That’s a rarity these days, and we valued that.”

Favourite aspects for the homeowners include the expansive sliding doors onto the deck and the orientation of the home to maximise the views of Lyttelton Harbour. “We also love the large rock on the deck – it’s a reminder of those shakier times, and luckily it’s been bolted to the structure of the home, so it’s not going anywhere!”

More than just restored, this house has been fundamentally improved. It’s now more energy efficient, safer, and more resilient to environmental effects. It’s a home that is now more at peace with the surrounding environment than the original, and certainly even more beautiful than before.

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HELPING YOU REALISE YOUR DREAM BUILD, THROUGH CARE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP.

Jim the Builder

The magic touch Dimension Building brings an architectural vision to life in the Canterbury high country.

WORDS CASSIE DOHERTY PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID YOUNG

S

tructurally, this home was as interesting as it was challenging, say Richard and Summer Phiskie, owners of Timaru-based Dimension Building, of this recently completed high-country build.

It is seemingly simple in its architecture, and deliberately so. The forms and materials are purposeful, grounding the home in the rugged landscape and instilling a sense of calm.

It’s the kind of considered, complex design that appeals to Richard and Summer as architectural build specialists. “We both have a genuine love for design,” says Summer. “Our DMs to each other are constantly filled with architecture and interiors, and over the past decade we’ve built more than a few homes together.”

But the pair say the projects they value most aren’t simply reflections of good taste: they’re the ones where strong relationships are built, the client’s brief is understood from the outset, and the vision is woven seamlessly into the home alongside enduring design principles and quality craftsmanship.

In this case, says Summer, it was about the architecture by Barry Connor Architectural Design and interiors by Michelle Lamb Interior Architecture. “The design talent shone through from day one. They’re both

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incredibly genuine and collaborative, and the home they created speaks volumes about their skill and vision.”

The striking structure is surprisingly versatile, just as easily accommodating two people as 10. It’s mainly constructed using off-form concrete panels to provide the main structural walls, giving a look that Barry Connor describes as bold and dynamic.

Complex footings anchor the house securely into the land, while those board-pressed concrete tilt panels and timber battens give it a tactile, hand-crafted quality that is intended to weather and age gracefully. The dynamic angles create drama, as does the interior palette with dark joinery, rich stone, deep colours and warm textures.

“Building in the high country demands a lot of forward planning and organisation,” says Summer.

“You need to be flexible in some ways, but absolutely locked in and uncompromising in others. Weather is always a factor, and it would be easy to let that dictate our timelines. Our crew don’t, though. If it snows, they grab a shovel and get on with it. They’re genuine high-country blokes with a can-do attitude and exacting standards, and their dedication to quality and craftsmanship was the driving force behind the successful execution of this build.”

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Sophisticated joinery creates clever storage solutions throughout the house, all crafted by Joinery Concepts.

Both Barry and Michelle are impressed by the outcome. “This project had its fair share of technical challenges, but working closely with the Dimension Building team meant we could tackle things head-on and find the right solutions along the way,” says Barry.

He says the interior fit-out is particularly outstanding.

“A lot of time was spent on site working through the finer details, and that collaborative approach paid off.

You simply can’t draw everything on a build like this, so developing and refining things together on site was key.

In the end, it all came together really well and the result is a home that feels tailored, resolved and right for the setting — a great outcome for the clients.”

Michelle agrees. “The clients are a fun, young family with exquisite taste. They appreciate good quality, which is why there are so many beautiful, timeless pieces.

Their style is very refined, so we used high-quality finishes throughout. Working with Dimension Building was great. They are big on communication, which was key to the success of this project given that Barry and I were in Christchurch.”

Richard and Summer enjoyed the collaboration.

“Working with this power duo was an absolute pleasure.

Michelle brought an incredible eye for detail. Every texture, tone and finish was intentional, adding layers of richness to the home without disturbing its sense of calm. Barry listened deeply to the clients, shaping spaces that felt both generous and intimate, and always keeping the budget and context front of mind. Together, they created a design language that flowed seamlessly from the architecture through to the interiors, and our role was to honour that vision with the same care in craftsmanship and execution. It was a true collaboration, and you can feel that harmony in every part of the finished home.”

Luxurious furnishings include the blue velvet Togo Fireside Chair, a distinctive 1970s design classic available in New Zealand from Ligne Roset.

Creating Joinery for your modern environment The team of artisan tradesmen at Joinery Concepts create custom joinery for any situation COMMERCIAL + RESIDENTIAL

M 027 480 7400 E pete@joineryconcepts.co.nz W joineryconcepts.co.nz @joinery_concepts 79

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The tiles on the walls and floors in the bathrooms are Ascot Gemstone in Ivory, from Brymac Tiles.

The refined veining and unique texture echoes the outlooks of the ever-changing landscape.

Involved in this project BUILDER Dimension Building 021 576 657 dimensionbuilding.co.nz ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER Barry Connor Architectural Design 021 203 5992 barryconnordesign.co.nz INTERIOR DESIGNER Michelle Lamb Interior Architecture 027 207 6992 michellelamb.co.nz JOINERY Joinery Concepts 027 480 7400 joineryconcepts.co.nz TOGO FIRESIDE CHAIR Ligne Roset 09 393 5636 ligne.nz BATHROOM TILES Brymac Tiles Ltd 03 366 8187 brymactiles.co.nz

Builders Ho ter us as M

Year the of

TOP

100

e

Register ed

The result is an award-winner for Dimension Building, with the project a regional category winner, Top 100 and a gold award winner at the 2025 Master Builders House of the Year awards. The judges described this home as “an expansive retreat that pairs architectural strength with restful simplicity”: a sentiment that Summer says captures it perfectly.

Achieving that balance is no small feat.

“From our perspective as builders, we couldn’t be prouder of the finished home,” says Summer. “It’s one of those projects where every element, from the structure through to the smallest detail, feels considered and beautifully resolved. There’s a real satisfaction in seeing the craftsmanship up close; the way the materials meet, the precision in the finishes, and how the home sits so comfortably in its surroundings. We love that it’s not just striking to look at, but feels effortless to live in.

It’s a home that will stand the test of time, both in quality and in spirit.”

2025 2024

EXCELLENCE

IS OUR ONLY STANDARD

With 60 House of the Year awards, this is more than a goal – it’s... OUR STANDARD.

DIMENSION BUILDING

TIMARU - CHRISTCHURCH - TWIZEL - TEKAPO

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IN THE TREETOPS This new-build home designed by Arcline Architecture nestles amid a leafy green canopy in Mangawhai, Northland.

WORDS CASSIE DOHERTY PHOTOGRAPHY DEFT PHOTOGRAPHY

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his is a home that talks to the trees, says Alan Simpkin, founder and design director of Arcline Architecture. When he first met the homeowners on this site in Mangawhai, Northland, it was covered in mature mānuka, and saving as many of them as possible during the build was central to the brief. And while the lot was very generous at 1144sqm – more than a quarteracre – it’s narrow, with a steep drop.

The response was to stretch up into the canopy.

“We went as high as we could to get that treehouse feeling,” says Alan. Only a minute or two from the estuary, and with neighbours all around, the bush-clad surroundings offer the house seclusion, shelter from wind and sun, and filtered glimpses of the ocean.

The form was designed to maximise every centimetre of potential within the tight envelope of boundaries, daylight angles, height restrictions and, of course, those existing trees. With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a double garage, a workshop and a lift, it’s a highly spec’ed home that looks deceptively simple.

Upstairs, the large windows invite in fresh breezes and natural light and an elevated louvred deck embraces the feeling of being in nature. You can almost reach out and touch the uppermost branches all around.

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Easy maintenance was on the wish-list, so aluminium cladding was used on the exterior for its durability in the coastal location. The random spacing of the negative detailing echoes the lines of the nearby tree trunks. “Then we did some stone cladding, to anchor everything,” says Alan, “and rusted Corten steel so it looks like it’s been there forever.” The monopitch roof reflects a quintessentially Kiwi bach-like style.

Tasked with bringing the design to reality was builder Steve Edwards. He has worked with Arcline Architecture a few times before, and even on his own home. He has also constructed a house for these homeowners previously, so the build was a very collaborative project. “I always sing his praises,” says Alan. “Steve does such a good job and nothing’s a problem. He runs projects very efficiently, which makes everything so much easier.”

Detailed fixtures add a refined layer to the home’s interiors, including the bespoke aged copper handrail crafted by Copper to Chrome.

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The build has a light and bright treehouse feel, with all painting and decorating entrusted to the team at Rodney Painters and Decorators.

Steve was also pleased to be involved in the project.

He says it was a challenge working around the existing trees, but it was what was underfoot that really mattered in terms of the build: there’s no soil, just sand. “It was just like being at the beach.”

That was not a problem for Steve with his years of experience. “But boring the lift shaft, that was quite tricky because it’s right in the middle of the house.

You don’t want it to cave in,” he says. Similarly, it was interesting work burying two large water tanks under the driveway. “Sand is not that easy!”

The sandy platform aside, he says the build was straightforward, and took about a year. He was on-site every day, he says, ensuring quick, open communication, and managed the project with a team of known and trusted subcontractors. One favourite aspect was working with the steel fabricator on the logistics of creating the rain screen with the Corten steel. “It looks really good, it’s quite a feature.”

The eye-catching copper splashback was custom-designed by artist Jasmine Keir. Her layered works are patinated naturally using food acids, and are cut in line with her zero-waste policy.

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Breezy curtains throughout help filter the light, and were made and installed by the experts at Windows by Design of Mangawhai Village.

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Involved in this project ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER Arcline Architecture 09 408 2233 arcline.co.nz BUILDER Steve Edwards 0274 787937 INTERIOR DESIGNER Sanctuary Interiors 022 108 3056 sanctuaryinteriors.co.nz PAINTING & DECORATING Rodney Painters and Decorators Ltd 022 015 8718 CURTAINS Windows by Design 021 023 58476 windowsbydesignltd.com KITCHEN FEATURE LIGHT Nightworks Studio 0800 568 369 nightworksstudio.com CUSTOM KITCHEN SPLASHBACK Jasmine Keir Artist 021 644 105 jasminekeir.art CUSTOM HANDRAILS AND FIXTURES Copper to Chrome 027 272 4104 coppertochrome.co.nz OUTDOOR FURNITURE Great Barrier Furniture 0275 485 957 greatbarrierfurniture.co.nz

Jacinda Pole of Sanctuary Interiors took on the interior design and styling. “The brief was to create a home deeply connected to the treetop canopy,” she says.

“We worked closely with the architects to ensure the interior design felt like a seamless continuation, and spent time with the clients on-site, observing how they envisioned living in the space.”

Warm, comfortable, tactile materials created harmony here. “I love that you can stand in any room and feel a sense of place. It’s a home that will age beautifully, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud to be a part of.”

Steve Edwards BUILDER S LT D 30+ years of trusted expertise and quality MOB 027 4787 937 EMAIL edwardsk@xtra.co.nz 87

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ALL THAT JAZZ A striking art deco-inspired home in Otautahi Christchurch showcases the collaborative vision of architectural designer Barry Connor, builder Mitch Frost and interior designer Michelle Lamb, proving that bold architectural statements can flourish here.

WORDS KATHY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY ANNA MCLEOD

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ˉ alking into this striking Otautahi residence feels like stepping back in time to the glamour of the 1920s and 30s, while maintaining the sleek sensibilities of today. It’s a rare architectural gem in a city where our post-earthquake rebuilding has largely favoured pragmatic solutions over bold design statements.

The mastermind team behind this geometric marvel includes architectural designer Barry Connor, builder Mitch Frost and interior designer Michelle Lamb.

As the architectural designer, Barry found himself on an unexpected creative journey when the homeowners initially approached him about renovating their earthquake-damaged weatherboard home. What began as a restoration project gradually morphed into something far more ambitious – and infinitely more exciting.

The extensive joinery work in the home, including the kitchen, inlaid brass and timber veneer doors, living room units and wardrobes, was completed by Sydenham Joinery.

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Every aspect of the home has been considered through an art deco lens, including these custom designed Cronz carpets that feature in the lounge and downstairs bedroom.

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All of the furniture in the sitting room is from David Shaw, including the Sonny Swivel tub chairs, evoking an art deco feel through a modern lens.

“We started working on renovation plans and actually got quite far down the track,” he says. “Then, partway through that process, it was along the lines of, ‘Well, if we’re going to change it to such an extent, what’s the point in keeping it? Why don’t we just start again?’”

This decisive shift ignited a spark. “It got very exciting, very quickly, between all of us,” says Barry.

“To have the opportunity to build something new that would fully embrace art deco aspects and style was quite exhilarating.”

The design process revealed homeowners who had been quietly nurturing their art deco obsession for decades. Their fascination with the style traced back to their time living in the US, where weekend browsing through architectural plan books had planted seeds of inspiration. Two particular designs featuring internal courtyards had captured their imagination – one echoing the intimate spaces of southern France, another reminiscent of sprawling desert homes in the American Southwest.

Barry’s skill lay in taking these collected inspirations and reimagining them entirely. Rather than creating traditional enclosed courtyards, he developed what he calls an “exteriorised” approach. The resulting design features a central spine with four distinct pods and three separate courtyard spaces, creating what essentially amounts to three outdoor rooms.

This innovative spatial arrangement solved multiple challenges simultaneously. The homeowners needed accommodation for four adults, requiring generous bedroom spaces, plus a dedicated studio for creative work. The pod system allowed Barry to create these substantial spaces while maintaining the indooroutdoor flow.

Every curved wall or round window, every geometric detail serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. The kitchen’s curved wall, for instance, mirrors the external entrance curve, creating visual continuity between interior and exterior spaces while maximising workflow efficiency.

From each foundation to the finishing touches, our commitment to quality is embodied in everything we do.

M 021 376 784 E mitch@frostbuilders.co.nz FROSTBUILDERS.CO.NZ

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The clean, bold interiors demanded exacting finishes. The painting throughout the home was completed by Chamlang Painters.

The splashback in the kitchen is coated using a Metalier liquid metal, with the bespoke handcrafted finish created and applied by Remarkable Surfaces Ltd.

QUALITY IS OUR PRIORITY 027 301 0870 plastermasternz@gmail.com 92

To bring the design into reality, the homeowners engaged Mitch Frost of Frost Architectural Builders.

Mitch and his seven-strong team worked closely with Barry and the homeowners from the design phase, and collaborated strongly throughout.

“The project wasn’t without its complexities,” says Mitch. “One of the standout challenges for us was creating the spherical roof over the stairwell.” It’s a feature that sounds simple but proved to be a real brain teaser. The team had to engineer not just the curved structure but also solve the issue of how the water would drain off. Ultimately, they created a “curving, falling internal gutter” behind a small parapet.

Alongside the spherical roof challenges, Mitch and his team worked to create the curved walls, a radial staircase, circular windows and heavy internal double doors. “There were challenges, but these also became absolute highlights of the project,” says Mitch. “I’m really proud of the process itself. From salvaging timber from the original house that was transformed into a dining table for the homeowners, to installing those magnificent pivot doors with precision German hinges, every element required careful thought and execution.”

The building team’s expertise has been recently acknowledged with the company picking up a Gold Award as well as a Regional Category Winner award (Resene New Home $2-4 million) at the 2025 Canterbury House of the Year Awards.

Working alongside Barry and Mitch was interior designer Michelle Lamb, who brought her own expertise to the project’s decorative elements. Michelle found herself collaborating with clients who weren’t interested in playing things safe. “It’s every designer’s dream scenario”, says Michelle. The interior finishing work complemented Barry’s architectural vision while adding layers of personality and warmth.

“Even from the street, this home is a spectacle,” Michelle reflects. “It’s alluring and fills you with curiosity. And then you walk in, and I would describe it as enchanting, luxurious and authentic. You really get a sense of who our clients are through their home, which is pretty special.”

The considered landscape design by Debbie Rimmer at Outline Spaces intentionally mimics the strong architectural features of the home. By using 3D rendering the homeowners could visualise the spaces and features before construction started.

BY

TRANSFORMING LANDSCAPES. REDEFINING SPACES. A creative collaboration with 50+ years of design experience

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

|

COMMERCIAL DESIGN

|

PLANT SELECTION + SUPPLY

|

www.outlinespaces.co.nz

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Involved in this project ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER Barry Connor Design 021 203 5992 barryconnordesign.co.nz BUILDER Frost Architectural Builders 021 376 784 frostbuilders.co.nz INTERIOR DESIGNER Michelle Lamb Interior Architecture 027 2076 992 michellelamb.co.nz LANDSCAPE DESIGNER Outline Spaces 03 337 9950 outlinespaces.co.nz EXTERIOR PLASTER CLADDING Resene Construction Systems Redrock Plastering Ltd 027 399 5971 redrockplaster.co.nz

The exterior uses an Integra Rockcote AAC plaster facade system, applied by Redrock Plastering Ltd. The team at Redrock also completed a zinc cladding to the staircase.

The collaboration between architectural designer, builder and interior designer created spaces where every detail reinforces the art deco theme without feeling heavy-handed or pastiche. Curved staircases flow naturally from the architectural bones Barry established, while interior finishes enhance rather than compete with the strong geometric forms.

What makes this project particularly significant is how it challenges Christchurch’s post-earthquake architectural landscape. The design proves that bold architectural statements remain both possible and deeply rewarding.

For Barry, the project’s success lies in its daily impact on the residents’ lives. Every interaction with a curved wall, every view through the striking glass doors, every moment spent there contributes to a richer living experience. “To make such an impact on someone’s daily life just by what they live in or feel or touch – I just find pleasure in that all the time.”

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TILES Brymac Tiles 03 366 8187 brymactiles.co.nz PAINTER Chamlang Plasterers and Painters 03 365 4499 chamlang.co.nz FURNITURE David Shaw Furniture 0800 847 848 davidshaw.co.nz METALIER COATINGS Remarkable Surfaces 0275 395 753 remarkablesurfaces.co.nz CARPETS & RUGS CRONZ Carpets & Rugs 03 347 3592 cronz.co.nz JOINERY Sydenham Joinery 03 379 6840 sydenhamjoinery.co.nz INTERIOR PLASTERING Plastermaster 027 301 0870 plastermaster.co.nz

a passion for painting

chamlang.co.nz

The Good Life Our favourite small luxuries and must-haves BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE Bring a touch of coastal charm to your home with the Saint Malo Coastal Collection. Hand-painted and full of nautical detail, this collection offers six new ceramic houses that are inspired by the French seaside town of Saint-Malo.

Designed to hold a single tealight, each house casts a warm, gentle glow. There’s even a lighthouse, so collect the full set to build your own village. nottinghillinteriors.co.nz

SCULPTURE STROLL Tickets are now on sale for NZ Sculpture OnShore. Running 8-23 November 2025 at the beautiful clifftop park Operetu in Devonport, Auckland, it’s New Zealand’s biggest sculpture exhibition. There will be more than 120 spectacular, quirky and thought-provoking works by artists from all over the country. It’s more than a great day out; it’s an exhibition with a cause, supporting Women’s Refuge. nzsculptureonshore.co.nz A RT A N D T E CH N O LO GY A new art curation platform has launched in Aotearoa, offering a way for people to discover and connect with original art. The Art Precinct uses digital innovations to make art collecting more accessible. A series of questions helps guide you towards your preferences, and the platform can give you an immersive experience with augmented reality technology for viewing artworks in your own space. theartprecinct.com

I N SUSP ENSE Regolo by Italian brand Italamp is a suspension lamp with a big impact and a minimalist design. Its straight lines and geometric shape evoke a glam 1970s aesthetic, characterised by the 160cm diffuser profile available in a choice of finishes and a decorative marble sphere in marquinia black or calacatta gold. It’s available in New Zealand from Accent Lighting in Christchurch.

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accentlighting.co.nz

RE AD ING NOOK

IN A NEW LIGH T ECC has unveiled a new and improved lighting showroom in Auckland. Having worked on refreshing the space for the past few months, it now boasts striking new displays from ECC’s international brand partners, including Tom Dixon, Apparatus, Articolo and Flos. Every detail has been carefully considered to inspire and engage, and to celebrate craftsmanship and design.

Take a look at 39 Nugent Street, Grafton, with on-site parking available. ecc.co.nz

TA S TY TEA TOW EL S These Wallace Cotton tea towels are so cute for a spring refresh of your kitchen accessories, and with handy recipes printed right on them. The Lemon Dreams set of three tea towels features instructions for a lemon blueberry cake, or try the Fresh Tomato Salad.

This vibrant design was created as a fundraiser for Starship Children’s Hospital, so it makes a perfect gift too. wallacecotton.com

B IRD O F T H E Y E A R Twenty years of ruffled feathers: A celebration of the birds of Aotearoa

H E A LT H D E S I G N IN NEW ZEALAND Te whaihanga o ngā whare hauora o Aotearoa

By Forest & Bird Publisher Penguin

By Chris Thom Publisher Massey University Press

New Zealanders love their birds.

Each year, thousands of us take part in Forest & Bird’s campaign to bring awareness to the challenges these feathery friends face, and to see who comes out on top as the coveted Bird of the Year. This richly illustrated book celebrates more than 80 native birds – and one bat.

Perfect for avian enthusiasts, it’s a delightful blend of education and entertainment.

In many New Zealand towns and cities, the hospital is one of the largest buildings. This history of their architecture starts with the tiny hospitals that served our early colonies and tracks their evolution through to the high-tech facilities of today, showing how they have adapted as medicine developed and communities grew. Specialising in health design, author Chris Thom is a Principal at Chow:Hill Architects.

OLV E S TO N Portrait of a home

B R E AT H Poetry Aotearoa Yearbook 2025

By Jane Ussher and John Walsh Publisher Massey University Press

Edited by Tracey Slaughter Publisher Massey University Press

Olveston is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most remarkable heritage homes. Built in 1907 for David Theomin, a wealthy merchant, and his wife Marie, its opulence reflects the economic power in Dunedin at that time, thanks to the earlier gold rush and the booming farming sector. Beautifully maintained, the house is now in public ownership and open for tours, and this book evocatively documents the exquisite rooms full of treasures.

An essential new collection from established and emerging voices.

For the 2025 edition of Poetry Aotearoa Yearbook, editor Tracey Slaughter has once again hit the zeitgeist in her selection of 141 new poems from an exhaustive submissions process. With work by both established and emerging New Zealand poets, including this year’s featured poet, Mark Prisco, this yearbook is essential reading for all poetry fans.

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In the Kitchen Recipes from our favourite cookbooks

INGREDIENTS: ½ onion, diced 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 1 tbsp olive oil salt 800 g peas, fresh or frozen 1 litre vegetable or chicken stock white pepper To serve: crème fraîche chopped chives black pepper METHOD: Place onion, garlic and oil in a saucepan with a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until onion begins to soften. Add peas and stock, a little more salt and some white pepper to season. Bring to the boil, then remove from the heat. (If you are using fresh peas, cook for a couple of minutes longer until they are tender.)

Using a slotted spoon, remove one cupful of the peas and set aside. You will get some of the onion pieces as well, which is fine. Blitz the soup with a stick blender until nice and smooth. Return the whole peas to the pan and bring back to the boil. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve with a good dollop of crème fraîche, chopped chives and a grind of black pepper.

Makes 4 big portions or 6 dinner party bowls.

Tip: This soup is great with some finely chopped ham stirred through it.

Spring Pea Soup This light and summery soup is incredibly quick and easy to make using either fresh or frozen peas, says cookbook author Wendy Morgan.

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Recipe from Comfort Cooking: Enough for leftovers and lazy days in Kiwi homes

By Wendy Morgan Publisher Bateman Books

Shop Window The very best products and services for your home ACCE N T L I G H T I N G At Accent Lighting, the team of lighting experts pride themselves on their exceptional knowledge, expertise and service. They’re continuously adding to the collection with the latest styles and technology from top European designers.

The Regolo suspension lamp from Italamp in Italy features a decorative marble sphere and a 160cm linear light body. Quality pieces are complemented by a design service for both residential and commercial projects. They’re passionate about great design and the importance of lighting in any design project. Visit the showroom at 829 Colombo Street, Christchurch, for a complimentary consultation. accentlighting.co.nz

A RT. CO G A L L E RY Welcome to Art.co Gallery, in collaboration with Christchurch-based Armstrong Interiors. The gallery offers a carefully curated selection of unique paintings and ceramics by talented local Canterbury artists. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, a standout piece to enhance your home or business, or a commissioned artwork to reflect your personal style, Art.co has something for every taste. Pop in and take a look around their beautiful space and as a bonus, enjoy the incredible art while you’re here. Visit them at 3 Birmingham Drive in Christchurch.

artco.nz

N AT U R A L LY T I L E S Imagine stepping into your dream bathroom every morning. Your space deserves more than ordinary tiles.

Whether you’re remodelling or building new, Naturally Tiles have the perfect tiles to suit every style. Known for their durability and stunning aesthetics, their Italian porcelain tiles showcase a vast array of design options from classic designs to contemporary patterns. Visit their showroom today for a complimentary design consultation.

Fabio and Heather will guide you through the collections, ensuring you find the perfect tiles for your project.

naturallytiles.co.nz

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RESENE

WI N K

Embarking on a home decorating project? Resene colour experts can help you successfully select colours and wallpapers that reflect your personality. Book a free in-store consultation, or make an appointment with a Resene colour expert to visit you at home, where they can help with your Resene paints, wallpapers and wood stains, inside and out.

Wink creates custom made bedheads and bedroom accessories that are stylish and sustainable. Choose from a range of fabrics, shapes and finishes via their easy-to-use website, with expert help available.

Every piece is proudly made in New Zealand using sustainable materials like New Zealand wool padding and low-emission timber – no toxic foams or glues. From bedheads to valances, cushions and lampshades, Wink brings personality-packed design into Kiwi homes.

resene.co.nz/colourconsult

winkdesign.co.nz

A RTWOOD OUTDOO R C OL L EC T ION

NEXTDORE

Whether you’re designing a new outdoor area or refreshing an existing one, the Artwood Outdoor Collection has everything you need for stylish, comfortable outdoor living. From sun-drenched lounging to effortless entertaining, each piece is crafted for durability, comfort and timeless appeal. Made from solid teak, durable aluminium and premium all-weather weave. Contact us now to find your local stockist.

Nextdore are passionate about helping their clients create spaces inspired by their stories. The team of talented and personable designers develop interiors that are unique, innovative and tailored to individual taste and budgets. Supported by experienced in-house professionals, they deliver both form and function from trusted suppliers like Bremworth, Luxaflex and Porcelanosa. With more than 60 years of experience in flooring and textiles.

ji.net.nz

nextdore.co.nz

AVA N TECH YOU ILLU M INAT ION

H A I R CA N DY

Create a spa-like serenity in your bathroom vanity by upgrading your drawers to include lighting. Integrate these battery-operated LED strips directly into your drawer with a clip on profile. Cast a soft glow across your skincare and cosmetics as you calmly work through your end of day routine.

Created to help maximise hair health, Hair Candy keratin treatment has no nasty ingredients and is made with New Zealand sheep wool keratin, which is a 99 per cent match to human keratin protein. This treatment penetrates the hair cuticle and strengthens, restores and repairs from the inside out, preventing breakage by 85 per cent and reducing frizz. It’s essential for the strength and resilience of hair.

Make sure to give it a try – your hair will thank you for it.

designwithhettich.co.nz

haircandy.nz

SUE KNOWLES A RT

RO U G H M I L N E M I TCH E L L

Artist Sue Knowles’ paintings bring luminous beauty to the most sophisticated spaces. From her Tai Tapu garden studio, she captures fleeting moments of perfection, studying her flowers as they evolve through the day’s changing light. In capturing those symphonies of colour, Sue’s paintings transform homes into sanctuaries. “When collectors bring my work home, they’re inviting that garden serenity into their daily lives.”

You’ll recognise the name: Tony Milne is a regular abode columnist.

Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects has studios in Christchurch, Auckland, Nelson, Wānaka and Dunedin, and a hot desk in Wellington. With over 25 years in practice, they have developed a reputation for excellence through a collaborative style of working and a highly skilled team. The focus is to create innovative, sustainable solutions that connect people to their environments.

sueknowlesart.com

rmmla.co.nz

STUDIO WREN LANDS C AP E DES IGN

B RY M AC T I L E S

Studio Wren’s design ethos centres around connections.

Working closely with clients through an entire landscaping journey, Rachael focuses on the importance of weaving landscapes with the architecture and interiors to create a beautiful and functional home.

Based in Christchurch, Rachael specialises in residential gardens and pool design, and offers guidance from the initial meeting through to the final build.

In operation for over 40 years, Brymac Tiles has a wealth of experience and specialist knowledge to draw on. Offering an extensive range of luxury European tiles made from long-lasting materials, at the best prices, Brymac Tiles provides a professional installation service that guarantees quality workmanship every time. Visit their showroom at 42 Durham Street for all your interior and exterior tiling solutions.

studiowren.co.nz

brymactiles.co.nz

LI EBH ERR

CRO N Z

Liebherr’s new 60 or 75cm bottom-mount fridge/freezer models in Smart Steel have arrived. Both have a market leading 6-star energy rating, premium interiors and brilliant LED lighting. The 60cm model features a VarioTemp lower compartment that can be used as either a freezer or fridge, and the 70cm model includes Liebherr’s BioFresh drawers in the fridge. Available individually, or combine as a set.

Carpets and Rugs of New Zealand (CRONZ) have been crafting bespoke rugs and carpets for more than 20 years, using the finest materials including New Zealand wool and luxurious silk. Their state of the art tufting machines, developed in-house, ensure that every custom creation is finished to world class standards. Under new ownership, CRONZ continues to honour its legacy while embracing fresh ideas. Explore the full range at the Rolleston showroom.

home.liebherr.nz

cronz.co.nz

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Est. 1979 We provide a full range of professional quantity surveying and construction cost management services, with a focus on delivering accurate budget cost indications for award winning tenders.

M : 022 192 0167

P 03 348 3434 E admin@sucklingstringer.co.nz sucklingstringer.co.nz

E : bnatiling@gmail.com

Remarkable Surfaces Ltd M: 0275 395 753 E: suzanne@remarkablesurfaces.co.nz

Bespoke liquid metal coatings that can be applied to virtually any surface to give the look and feel of real metal, without the weight and limitations.

www.remarkablesurfaces.co.nz

CANTERBURY “The Replacement Specialists” Making outstanding aluminium windows and doors for homeowners in Canterbury since 1996.

03 389 6466 quotes@nulookcanterbury.co.nz

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Refined Window Furnishing, Effortlessly Delivered What we offer: Custom curtains, sheers, blinds & shutters Design focused, trusted advice Professional installation Residential & Commercial Motorisation & specialist services

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SPRING INTO ACTION Is now a good time to invest in property?

Dean McGuigan of Golden Homes has some pointers.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025

Architecture & Craftsmanship

We are driven to create surfaces that make a living environment durable and look good.

I

already behind us.

Of course, taking action is harder than MASTER BUILDER Frost Architectural Builders staying put. It’s more comfortable to tread EXTERIOR INTEGRA aac plaster facade system water than to commit. But in this market, PLASTERING PROFESSIONAL RedRock Plastering commitment pays. Those who buy now are positioning themselves ahead of the curve, with better rates, lower entry prices and a head start on long-term gains – the kind that funds future freedom and supports income in retirement.

Investing in a quality new build makes even more sense. You’re getting a product designed for today’s living: warm and dry, low-maintenance and built to current standards. Golden Homes investment packages come fully equipped DEAN MCGUIGAN to ensure the property is tenant-ready on Director, Canterbury Region completion. The two-year rent guarantee at Golden Homes with top-up and our true fixed-price contract provide a straightforward path to long-term gain.

There’s never a perfect time. But there is a smart time, and that time is now. Property rewards the decisive. Time, after all, is an 0800 50 70 40 w w w. r e s e n e c o n s t r u c t i o n . c o . n z investor’s greatest ally.

A R T IS A N I N T E R I O R S goldenhomes.co.nz

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t’s not really about the property. The real question is: Is now a good time to invest in your financial future?

Here’s the short answer: yes. Because every day you wait is a day lost – one day closer to whatever it is you’re working towards, striving to achieve.

In reality, there will always be a reason to wait. Values might drop. Rates could go lower. Something better might come along.

But when it comes to property investment, doing nothing often costs more than taking action. The longer you wait, the less time you have to benefit from growth and compounding returns.

Right now, the numbers speak for themselves. Interest rates are lower than they’ve been in years. Some lenders are offering two-year fixed rates as low as 4.85 per cent, with one-year terms dipping below 5 per cent. That’s well below the 20-year average. With competition heating up among banks, investors have a rare opportunity to lock in low-cost finance before any upward movement returns.

The market itself is flat. That means more opportunity, less pressure and the space to make smart, calculated moves. Waiting for Dreturn D I N Gmeans SYST E MSmore in a theCL heatAto paying

We believe that when it comes to cladding and interiors, the tactile nature rising market. And let’s be honest, we only of plaster makes it an unrivalled product. ever know the bottom has passed once it’s

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www.blum.com/aventos

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Architecture & Craftsmanship

We are driven to create surfaces that make a living environment durable and look good.

We believe that when it comes to cladding and interiors, the tactile nature of plaster makes it an unrivalled product.

MASTER BUILDER Frost Architectural Builders EXTERIOR INTEGRA aac plaster facade system PLASTERING PROFESSIONAL RedRock Plastering

0800 50 70 40 108

CL A D D I N G SYST E MS

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