Issuu

AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE

MARCH/APRIL 2026

RRP $10.50

DO WELL The secrets to self-care at home

FRESH GREENS Homeware in the hottest new hue: wasabi

GET REAL Design that reflects the true you 105

ColorCote’s ColorCote’slowestlowestcarbon carbonsteel steelsubstrate substrate ––the theprotective protective layer layerbeneath beneaththe the colour colourcoating. coating. Protection Protection that that stands stands up up to coastal to coastal salt, salt, alpine alpine frost, frost, and and sudden sudden storms, storms, so so youyou cancan enjoy enjoy thethe moments moments that that matter. matter.

BUILDER BUILDER - Ehaus - Ehaus Manawatū Manawatū | INSTALLER | INSTALLER - Palmerston - Palmerston North North Roofing Roofing Photography Photography © Andy © Andy KruyKruy 106

CMY

colorcote.co.nz

engineered stone / marble / granite / kitchens / vanities / hearths / maintenance 021 240 0124 info@shaneboydgranite.co.nz

21 Disraeli Street Sydenham, Christchurch

Hugo Restaurant, The Terrace, Christchurch

Love

the life indoors

Herschel Infrared delivers energy efficient, beautifully comfortable, radiant heating solutions for all your favourite living spaces.

Instead of directly heating the air in a room, our IR panels heat the walls, ceiling and floor evenly which absorbs the heat and gently re-emits the heat back into the room. This is more efficient than conventional heating systems which waste energy by heating large volumes of air.

Why choose Herschel Infrared heating panels? Far infrared panels are the easiest way to switch to 100% net zero carbon heating. They can be installed as a full house alternative to heat pumps, that is significantly more affordable and far easier to install, or as a complementary solution to existing heating systems. • • • • • • • •

Reduced energy use Natural heat 100% net zero carbon heating Helps prevent mould and condensation Maintenance free, long lifetime Over 95% recyclable Easy to install Range of beautiful styles for your home

Better for ... You Our infrared heating technology uses the heat humans were designed for. We’ve evolved over time to naturally absorb the comfortable feeling of infrared radiant heat. A fresher type of heat that you’ll wish you’d switched to sooner.

Buildings Our infrared heaters directly heat the building, driving out damp and mould, reducing condensation and maintaining a more healthy living environment.

Our Planet 100% electric. Zero emissions. Efficient and simple to install, our infrared heaters offer the easiest way to achieve net zero heating.

Complement the design of any interior KRYSTAL surface or recess ceiling mount panel heater From $1,999 Black and White colours available

NEW SELECT XLS MIRROR WITH LIGHTS wall mount From $1,399 SELECT XLS MIRROR wall mount From $849

SUMMIT indoor & outdoor wall or ceiling/hanging high-power infrared heater Black and White colours available From $1,099

INFRARED TOWEL HEATER wall mount

SMART CONTROLS energy saving accessories From $199

Want equally efficient comfort

outside? Herschel offers an amazing range of outdoor infrared heating solutions.

SELECT XLS WHITE frameless ceiling or wall mount From $549

From $1,099 Black and White colours available

Stylish, ultra-slim and space-saving, infrared panels use radiant heat to create a comfortable, natural feeling of warmth that our customers love!

View complete catalogue here

For more information visit herschel-infrared.co.nz

Phone (09) 947 5166

Email sales@herschel-infrared.co.nz

Exceptionally beautiful energy-efficient homes

Welcome “M

ay you live in interesting times”, goes the wellknown sentiment. Whether you interpret that as a blessing or a curse, right now we most certainly do. When it all gets to be too much, it’s nice to be able to beat a retreat and hole up at home – and this issue is focused on creating a space that’s a true sanctuary. What makes your home a haven? It may be staying warm, cosy and cocooned. It could be the glamour of a spa-like bathroom. Or perhaps it’s a full-on wellness centre, including a home gym, sauna and ice bath. Our special section, Rest and Restoration, from page 37 offers advice on all those options for you and more. Our feature homes, too, embrace this mindset. When I chatted to Nicola Ross of Nicola Ross Design about her work on a Palmerston North family home (page 58), she discussed how important it is to create a soothing environment. “It’s about the house supporting the way you live and how you want to feel from an emotional point of view.” Similarly, Bryce Monk of Threefold Architecture designed a Wānaka holiday home (page 82) aimed at instant relaxation. “They wanted something that they could feel relieved to be in… an uplifting feeling when they walked in the door.” Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? So I hope you find plenty in this edition of abode to help fill your cup. Take care of yourselves, and each other.

Cassie Doherty EDITOR cassie@27publishers.co.nz

www.dsconstruction.co.nz

PUBLISHER

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

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

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

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

Caroline Martin caroline@27publishers.co.nz

abodemagazine.co.nz

027 660 7389 dan@dsconstruction.co.nz 6

CONTRIBUTORS

Daniela Aebli, Sven Alberding Robyn Alexander, Avodah Photo + Cinema, Rachael Cone, Greg Cox, Simon Devitt, Rachael Kwok, Simon Larkin, Lightforge Photography, Dean McGuigan, Nathan Miglani, Tony Milne, Wendy Morgan, Hazel Redmond, Mark Scowen, Mick Stephenson, John Williams, Alister Winter 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 22

DESIGN FIRST Making masonry options easier

A GRAND IDEA Steel framing for luxury builds

M O D E R N G R AC E Updated charm for an Auckland villa

I N S I D E S T Y LE Classic navy, and warm layers

R O O M S E RV I C E A sophisticated retro bedroom

REST AND RESTOR ATION SPECIAL FE ATURE 3 8 RISE OF THE RETRE AT Creating wellness spaces at home 39 WHERE WELLBEING BEGINS The benefits of saunas and ice baths 42 THE HE ATING EVOLUTION Seamless systems for keeping cosy 43 FULL STE AM AHE AD Spa-like luxury for your bathroom 4 4 THE ART OF WARMTH Autumn outdoor living perfected

45 SETTLE IN Sheepskin in store for Christchurch 4 6 FIND YOUR FIRE Choosing the ideal wood fireplace

HOME S

RETURNING HOME ˉ Place and permanence in Otautahi

R O C K TH E B OAT Right at home in a unique new build

M O D E R N FA R M H O U S E F E E LI N G Traditional meet contemporary

TI M E LE S S E LE G A N C E Rustic charm in rural Canterbury

A P L AC E TO U N W I N D Instant relaxation in Wānaka

M A I S O N E N P L AC E Meticulous design in Cape Town

COLU MNS 12

NKBA The keys to the kitchen

R O U G H M I LN E M I TC H E LL Enjoying imperfection

TOTA L R E A LT Y Knowing the risks

S Q U I R R E L S O U TH I S L A N D Looking up

104

G O LD E N H O M E S Further afield

LIFE S T YLE 96

TH E G O O D LI F E

I N TH E K I TC H E N Baked beans

REG U L AR S 6

W E LCO M E

TH E H O M E PAG E

S U B S C R I B E TO abode

INSPIRING FINDS

S H O P W I N D OW

AOTEAROA HOMES + IDEAS + ADVICE

ARCHITEC TURE & CR AF TSM ANSHIP

MARCH/APRIL 2026

RRP $10.50

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

DESIGNER

Nicola Ross Design

BUILDER

Inhouse Construction

ARTISAN INTERIOR

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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

Rockcote Otsumigaki natural clay and lime coloured plaster

PLASTERING PROFESSIONAL Central Plastering

PHOTOGRAPHY Avodah

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

ISSUE 81

0 8 0 0 5 0 70 4 0

DO WELL The secrets to self-care at home

FRESH GREENS Homeware in the hottest new hue: wasabi

GET REAL Design that reflects the true you

ON THE COVER A curated Palmerston North family home by Nicola Ross Design and Inhouse Construction. Photography: Avodah Photo + Cinema

The Home Page Social comments, musings, questions and requests from our readers C OV ER TH E TOP “What an amazing entrance,” said an Instagram follower about this Christchurch rebuild by Archco Architecture and Artwork Homes. “That stonework makes it!” It’s also part of the solution to the property’s flood zone, a great example of Kiwi ingenuity. Read “Rise above” at abodemagazine.co.nz if you haven’t already, and turn to page 49 for more amazing New Zealand feature homes.

B F I N E D E TA I L S There’s a lot to see in every issue of abode. Last time, we celebrated the delights of sculptural homeware. This time, page 34 showcases the freshest new shade of wasabi green. If you don’t want to miss out, subscribe at abodemagazine.co.nz/subscribe or on page 14 for your favourite magazine all year long.

E MID-M OD N O D There were a lot of likes for this house on our social media. By Johnstone Callaghan Architects and DRH Building, it blends a touch of midcentury style with natural, organic materials. As always, abode’s inspirational homes can be seen on Facebook @abodemagazineNZ or Instagram @abode_magazine, so make sure you’re following.

D R E A LT Y B I TE S Regular abode columnist Rachael Cone of Total Realty in Christchurch has all the insights on the Kiwi property market. Last issue she forecast a brighter 2026 for the industry, and this time she gives us the lowdown on natural hazard information. Check it out on page 18.

B D EF INING MOMEN T S The January/February 2026 issue of abode was all about what’s hot in architecture and interiors. From the elegance of a spiral staircase to handcrafted wallpaper inspired by Aotearoa, the issue was packed with stunning ideas. This time, our special section encompasses all that is cosy and nurturing about our homes, so take a look from page 37.

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.

Visit our showroom

42 Durham Street . Christchurch . Ph 03 366 8187

brymactiles.co.nz

Small but Mighty by Natalie Du Bois of Du Bois Design. Photography © John Williams

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

The keys to the kitchen Rachael Kwok of NKBA chats with the NKBA Designer of the Year about achieving timeless design.

his month I sat down with the 2025 NKBA Designer of the Year to hear firsthand how to prioritise great kitchen design. Natalie Du Bois of Du Bois Design in Auckland understands how to create an excellent kitchen. She says that if Kiwi homeowners focused on just three things while renovating, they would set themselves up for success. “First, I would invest in the layout and planning,” shares Natalie. “A kitchen is a working space, not a styling exercise. If the fridge is in the wrong place, if prep space is tight, if the island blocks flow, you’ll feel that every day. Carefully planned layouts are the foundation of longevity, and it’s where true value is created. “Second, consider cabinetry construction and hardware. Cabinetry is what you physically interact with. It’s opened, shut, pulled, leaned on, cleaned constantly. So, I prioritise good joinery, excellent internal function and quality hardware. “Finally, I always invest in key surfaces, particularly the benchtop. You live on your benchtops, not your splashback tile. So, I’d rather invest in one beautifully resolved,

durable surface than in multiple trenddriven finishes that date quickly.” Concerns about a kitchen feeling dated sooner than expected are common and understandable. A kitchen represents a significant investment, not just financially, but in the time and energy involved in creating it. That’s why considering longevity from the outset is so important. Natalie says the fastest-dating kitchens are usually the ones that are driven by trends rather than fundamentals. “Options that quickly date include a highly specific tile that locks you into a look, overly fashionable colours, especially when used on large permanent areas, finishes selected for impact rather than longevity and kitchens designed as photo backdrops and social media trends rather than real spaces. Futureproofing isn’t about being boring; it’s about being strategic. The Du Bois approach is simple. Make the permanent decisions timeless – layout, proportions, cabinetry detailing, and quality materials, then express personality through elements that can evolve like stools, artwork, styling and smaller accessories.” In the pursuit of the perfect kitchen, costly mistakes can be made. As an Elite

Designer of NKBA, Natalie Du Bois says she sees common mistakes undo a great project. “A kitchen renovation is always about more than a kitchen; it’s about how the whole home works. The most successful kitchens feel calm and effortless, and that always comes down to good planning. Some pitfalls are choosing finishes before the layout is resolved, underestimating storage and real-life function, treating lighting as an afterthought and cutting costs in the wrong places. Ultimately, a great kitchen isn’t about adding more; it’s about considering everything properly, so the space works beautifully for years. A great kitchen isn’t designed for a trend cycle, it’s designed for the way you live, and it should still feel right 10 years from now.” Natalie highlights the importance of thoughtful planning and investment in these key areas of kitchen design, enabling homeowners to create kitchens that are not only beautiful but also functional and enduring. As Natalie aptly puts it, longevity is the ultimate luxury, and a well-designed kitchen is a testament to that philosophy. nkba.org.nz

Food & wine preserved with passion German-engineered with the most luxurious materials, for the finest things in Life. Discover purpose. Discover pure indulgence: home.liebherr.com

Distributed by:

Subscribe to win!

reat yourself or a friend to a year of abode (six issues) for only $57 and you’ll never miss a detail. Every bi-monthly issue of abode features inspirational architecture and interior design, plus building and renovation advice from experts around Aotearoa. Subscribe before the end of April 2026 and you could be the lucky winner of this Windermere Mohair Throw in Picasso from Masterweave. Keep cosy with the Windermere Mohair Throw made from the fleece of New Zealand angora goats, a natural fibre that’s renowned for its softness, lightweight warmth and natural lustre. A Windermere Mohair Throw will last for years, and the rich colours of the Picasso design will be a beautiful interior detail in your home. Based in the Wairarapa farming region, Masterweave has been creating blankets in New Zealand for over 30 years, as well as throws, wraps and scarves, using luxurious mohair, alpaca and merino. See masterweavetextiles.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 Mohair Throw from Masterweave!

TERMS & CONDITIONS This subscription offer is valid for subscriptions delivered within New Zealand. For international subscription rates visit abodemagazine.co.nz/ subscribe or email subscribe@abodemagazine.co.nz. Please allow up to eight weeks for delivery of your first magazine. Visit abodemagazine.co.nz/subscribe for further information.

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 14

Hide it. Reveal it. Love it Elevate your space with REVEGO pocket systems — Blum’s game-changing innovation is now available in bench height. Effortlessly hide and reveal entire zones, unlocking more freedom, beauty, and functionality than ever before. Pop into your local showroom or visit blum.com to find more inspiring storage solutions.

Scan to see REVEGO in action or visit blum.com

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

Enjoying imperfection When it comes to his own garden, Tony Milne of Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects embraces a wabi-sabi mindset.

s I write, the summer rain dances on the roof above, melodic and soothing. I look out to our vegetable garden, abundant with growth and rejoicing in the warmth and moisture it unexpectedly receives. I start to write about sculpture and art in the landscape, but then the rampant leader of one of the tomatoes catches my eye. Seeding broccoli and lettuce, rocket too, reach skyward through the spring onions, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes, rhubarb, spinach, lettuces not going to seed, mint, parsley, marigolds, yarrow, gaura, sage, nasturtium, daisies, penstemon, echinacea and other random flowers that I can’t identify. Two once-espaliered apple trees stand over the garden, one bent in half with the weight of fruit, the other upright, unencumbered. Oh, and weeds aplenty. The garden seems to work, as does the thyme that spreads, claiming the terrace edge, in an imperfect way. It’s certainly no parterre of Versailles, I muse. But rather subconsciously I associate this pleasing misalliance of foliage, produce and colour

with a text message I received a little while back from my colleague Nikki, extolling the virtues of wabi-sabi. Wabi-sabi is a traditional Japanese worldview centred on finding beauty in imperfection, impermanence and simplicity. Distilled, wabi means understated, austere beauty. As Yoshida Kenkō, Japanese monk and poet, wrote some eight centuries ago: “Are we to look at cherry blossoms only in full bloom, at the moon only when it is cloudless.... Branches about to blossom or gardens strewn with faded flowers are worthier of our admiration.” While first explored in poetry, the idea of wabi was further developed in the art of tea and the context of Zen. I do like the way of tea: the elegant simplicity of the tea house and the utensils that contradict any notion that beauty must entail magnificence and opulence. Incorporating the equalising aesthetic of wabi into the tea ceremony is a wonderful story, and one I encourage you to learn. The term sabi, through time, has acquired the meaning of something that has

aged well, is rusty or has acquired a patina that makes it beautiful. At the heart of being sabi is the idea of authenticity. As described by Japanese author Jun'ichirō Tanizaki: ”We do not dislike everything that shines, but we do prefer a pensive lustre to a shallow brilliance, a murky light that, whether in a stone or artefact, bespeaks a sheen of antiquity… We love things that bear the marks of grime, soot and weather, and we love colours and the sheen that call to mind the past that made them.” The evocative simplicity and emptiness of an alcove in a tea house is antithetical to the riot of our vegetable garden, I am aware. Its imperfectness is the delight. I wonder if I can get one more year out of my twisted, asymmetrical bamboo tomato stakes and how much longer I can ignore the family’s protestations over my predilection for the weathered patina of the timber within our garden – it connects us to our past, I suggest. rmmla.co.nz

Visit New Zealand’s Showhome of the year.

1 Francesco Drive, Karaka Harbourside, 11-2pm Wed - Sun edenhomes.co.nz

office@edenhomes.co.nz

Jennifer: 021 105 2913

Knowing the risks Updated LIMs bring clearer hazard information, says Rachael Cone of Total Realty.

ouncils all over the country have introduced a more streamlined approach to presenting natural hazard information in Land Information Memorandums, or LIMs. This means that details about risks such as flooding, coastal erosion, landslides and earthquakes are now laid out clearly and more accessibly. This improves transparency and helps homeowners and potential buyers understand the risks their properties may face. Plus, you can now easily find all this information online for free, making it easier for everyone – homeowners, tenants or future buyers – to stay informed. While councils have always included hazard information in LIMs, these updates are making it more straightforward and, most importantly, user-friendly. This means better decision-making for everyone involved,

giving you the knowledge you need to protect and adapt your property accordingly. And with online mapping tools like GeoMaps, which highlight flood zones and landslide-prone areas on a map, property buyers can feel more confident in their choices. The Insurance Council of New Zealand is on board, too, recognising that informed decisions lead to better property management and risk planning. For other up-to-date property news or market trends, please feel free to contact the friendly team at Total Realty any time. You can follow us on social media or visit our website to see all our latest properties as soon as they are live to the market. And if you’re thinking of selling, take advantage of our great 1.5 per cent rates with no up-front marketing fees. It just makes Total Sense. totalrealty.co.nz

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

THE CUSTOM MADE RUG & CARPET SPECIALISTS

COBBLESTONES by Alchemy The Alchemy Collection explores transformation, turning simple inspiration into considered design. Crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, each rug reflects the textures and patterns that shape our world — from nature’s organic beauty to the refined elegance of science and human ingenuity.

www. designerrugs.nz

info@designerrugs.nz

09 300 6116

Looking up Nathan Miglani of Squirrel South Island is enjoying the buzz in Christchurch.

hristchurch is stepping into one of its most exciting periods in recent memory. There is a level of optimism across the city that we have not seen for over a decade. Close to a billion dollars’ worth of major projects are either underway or are about to open in the coming months. Te Kaha One New Zealand Stadium will be a defining moment for our city. Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre is now fully operational, and the new Court Theatre building stands as an outstanding addition in the heart of the CBD. If you have not yet visited it, I would highly recommend taking the time to do so. This confidence is also flowing through to the property market. With interest rates stabilising and construction activity increasing, 2026 is shaping up to be a very active year. First-home buyers are stepping forward in record numbers. Christchurch remains one of the few cities in New Zealand where owning a home is still within reach for many families, and that is something truly special. We are also seeing meaningful movement in the $800,000 to $1.5 million

range. Many families who paused their plans over the past two years are now ready to move forward. For some, it is about creating more space for their growing family. For others, it is about securing the right location or school zone. What is clear is that stability in interest rates has helped restore confidence, and people are once again making long-term decisions. Across Canterbury, the momentum is the same. Selwyn is marching ahead, and it remains a preferred location for many of our clients who are building new homes, reflecting the confidence people have in the district’s future. On a personal level, it is incredibly rewarding to support so many Cantabrians through their property journeys. Christchurch has shown remarkable resilience over the years, and today we are seeing the results of that resilience turn into real momentum. I feel proud to be part of this community and excited about what lies ahead for our city and the people who call it home. squirrel.co.nz/south

N AT H A N M I G L A N I Managing Adviser, Squirrel South Island

Muse Chairs, Geo Side Table

DESIGN FIRST Every project with masonry supplier Viblock is now easier, more intuitive and more inspiring. Here’s why.

iblock has been quietly transforming. It has invested in new manufacturing technology, expanded its footprint ˉ in Otautahi Christchurch, and extended its reach with architects and builders across the country. The company is evolving with a refreshed brand and product naming system, making working with Viblock simpler and more creative than ever. Viblock now communicates with its customers more practically. Clearer product categories The entire range is grouped into three easy-to-understand types. • Structural: Load-bearing concrete blocks. • Bricks: Products designed to be seen. • Landscaping: The elements that define courtyards and driveways. Simplified colour ranges This gives you more clarity around aesthetics, availability and application. • Standard: These are oxide-based colours developed for everyday use. • Premium: With rich tonal variation and a strong connection to Aotearoa New Zealand’s geology. • Custom: For orders over 150sqm, Viblock offers a fully customised colour service. Straightforward brick naming Viblock has updated its brick naming system to help you more easily understand proportions, compare products and select the right fit for your project. The new names show each brick’s width in millimetres, then add a descriptive term based on shape or scale – for example, 220 Standard or 390 Half. Easier paving selection Viblock has simplified the naming and coding of its paving products, making it easier to identify and specify the correct format.

Textures made simple Surface treatments play a huge role in how a wall looks and feels, as well as how it weathers over time. Treatments such as fluted, honed, split-face, textured and rumbled are now consistently named and described across product catalogues, website and specification tools. Ultimately, this rebrand is about making things easier for you. Whether you’re an architect, builder, developer or homeowner. This isn’t a change to the company’s values or its manufacturing processes, so you can still count on the things that matter most: craft, precision and care. Want more details? The Viblock team is ready to help with guidance, samples and technical support. viblock.co.nz

Crafted Concrete Products

viblock.co.nz 22

A GRAND IDEA Why steel framing by Steel Frame Manufacturing Ltd is the best choice for your luxury build.

uilding a luxury home is an exciting journey, and choosing the right materials can make all the difference. Steel framing is gaining popularity among discerning homeowners for a variety of compelling reasons. There are multiple benefits to opting for steel framing in your high-end home, and the experts at Steel Frame Manufacturing can help you make an informed choice that suits both your aesthetic needs and practical requirements. One of the primary advantages of steel framing is its exceptional durability. Unlike traditional wood framing, which can warp, bow, or split over time, steel maintains its shape and structural integrity indefinitely. This strength is particularly beneficial in luxury homes, where aesthetics and longterm reliability are paramount. Moreover, steel framing can support larger spans and

open floor plans, making it ideal for upscale designs. This versatility allows architects and homeowners to create expansive living spaces that feel airy and inviting. Steel’s sleek, modern appearance adds a level of sophistication to any home, and homeowners looking to create an opulent ambience can leverage its aesthetic appeal. Steel framing pairs beautifully with a range of architectural styles, from contemporary minimalism to classic elegance, offering versatility in design choices. Steel framing offers remarkable resistance to fire, pests and severe weather conditions. These weather-resilient properties ensure that your luxury home will not buckle under the pressure of strong winds, heavy snow or other natural adversities. Given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, steel

is an optimal choice for long-term home construction, plus it means fewer repairs and maintenance needs, allowing homeowners to focus on enjoying their beautiful environment. Of course, the longevity of steel structures means their resale value is higher than that of homes with wood framing. Steel homes are perceived as high-end, robust and reliable, making them an attractive choice for future buyers. This is particularly important in the luxury market, where discerning buyers often seek properties with established integrity. With cutting-edge manufacturing processes and wide experience, Steel Frame Manufacturing Ltd has a reputation for excellence in every project. steelframeman.co.nz 23

MODERN GRACE Interior design by Shaw Design adds updated elegance to a freshly renovated Auckland villa. WORDS CASSIE DOHERTY PHOTOGRAPHY MARK SCOWEN

hen a couple with two young children bought this character villa in the leafy suburb of Pt Chevalier in Tāmakimakaurau Auckland, it was with the intention to extend and renovate, creating a home perfectly suited to modern family life. A modern wing added to the rear expands the kitchen, dining and living areas and allows for more space in the original house for sleeping and relaxing. It’s the best of both worlds but raises the question of how to marry old and new? Enter interior designer Chantelle Shaw of Shaw Design in Tauranga. “It was important to retain and enhance the original charm of the villa while the

modern extension showcases clean lines and modern architectural elements, leading to a beautiful seamless blend of classic and contemporary design,” she says. “The result is a home that feels both welcoming and spacious, with a sense of history and modern comfort effortlessly intertwined.” The key is in the choice of materials. Organic, natural and durable finishes throughout are harmonious, with a contemporary look that still honours the original house. Polished concrete floors in the extension were used for their warmth, durability and style. “We tinted the concrete colour to tie into the warm tones used throughout.”

Designed for Kiwi life Practical, elegant and timeless, our custom interior shutters are thoughtfully made to make light control, privacy and style easy in any home. Internal shutters by Santa Fé encapsulate the clean lines of the interiors with a nod to traditional character. In the living area are Woodlore Plus Shutters in Pure White with Invisible Tilt. Waterproof versions are in the bathrooms. The warmth of the concrete floor colour by PeterFell creates cohesion between the new extension and the original house. The wide range of options for coloured concrete includes neutrals, charcoals, terracottas and even pastels.

White shutters and sheer drapery are comfortable and stylish, as are the timber floors and joinery and brass accents. “With rich textures, luxurious finishes and bespoke details, this home is a true sanctuary,” says Chantelle. There are playful elements too. “We chose a strong coloured tile for the master ensuite, different from the main bathroom, to add a point of interest and for a moody and romantic feel. Often we repeat materials in multiple places, so it was nice to choose something that was distinct but still had cohesion to the design.”

Call 0508 274 888 or visit www.santafeshutters.co.nz

From Tile Space, the Shale Sand Matt Ribbed tile brings organic texture and a linear design, and the pink Microtiles Joint Terracotta Matt tile adds a fun aesthetic.

With her years of experience, Chantelle has perfected the recipe for successful interiors for any new build or renovation. “Plan everything in advance. Lay out budgets, and figure out your must-haves and nice-to-haves,” she says. “Expect surprises, especially with old buildings. And if you’re not someone who can visualise things in a space, definitely engage with a designer!” Think about the end-use of your home, she advises. Ask yourself who will live there, what you value, and how long you intend to stay. Try not to get fixed on current trends – save that for furnishings which are easy to update. Every design project Shaw Design undertakes follows a process. “We think about how the homeowners will interact with each space, and what practicalities need to be considered. Once plans are being finalised, we work with the client to decide on a style or look. From there we prepare indepth finishing schedules, including joinery, lighting, fixtures and appliances. We work closely with homeowners to uncover their unique style and requirements, designing

spaces that reflect who they are while anticipating how their needs may evolve over time.” In this project, as always, the kitchens and bathrooms were carefully planned. They’re the most complex and expensive to upgrade, and they add instant value and saleability to a home. “Bedrooms and living areas are easy to change up, kitchens and bathrooms require trades, permits and structural changes. For this reason, it’s a great idea to stay with a look that will age well, using materials that are timeless.” She’s really pleased with the end result. “The project ran seamlessly, even though the house is in Auckland and we are based in Tauranga. And we love it, we’re really happy with how it’s turned out. It feels like a warm hug on arrival as you transition through the original classic part of the home through into the vast, light-drenched modern space.” shawdesign.nz peterfell.co.nz tiles.co.nz santafe.co.nz

The natural beauty of coloured concrete. 0800 422 65687 peterfell.co.nz